Jesus Christ is the Same Yesterday, Today and Forever |Blogs | NCRegister.comHAMILTON: Last year’s Synod on the Family was the low point in my Catholic faith.
It wasn’t the dueling cardinals and their clashing press comments that got to me. What pushed me close to despair was the fear that the Church might actually walk away from Jesus.
After I converted, I found a few of the Church’s teachings difficult to accept. But I hung in there and slowly came around to acceptance and a profound gratitude for the Church’s fidelity to Christ down through the centuries.
Wednesday, September 30, 2015
What it means that Pope Francis met Kim Davis
What it means that Pope Francis met Kim Davis | CruxALLEN: If anyone suspected that Pope Francis didn’t really mean the strong words he spoke on religious freedom last week in the United States – that he was phoning it in, while his real concerns were elsewhere – claims that he held a private meeting with Kentucky county clerk Kim Davis certainly should lay that suspicion to rest.
The meeting was first reported by Robert Moynihan of Inside the Vatican magazine. A Vatican spokesman said Wednesday, “I do not deny that the meeting took place, but I have no comments to add,” which, in effect, is a way of allowing the report to stand.
The meeting was first reported by Robert Moynihan of Inside the Vatican magazine. A Vatican spokesman said Wednesday, “I do not deny that the meeting took place, but I have no comments to add,” which, in effect, is a way of allowing the report to stand.
How Pope Francis was thrust into the world's most intractable political conflicts
How Pope Francis Was Thrust into the World's Most Intractable Political Conflicts | Foreign AffairsGAETAN: On Friday morning, the Vatican’s yellow-and-white flag was, for the first time, hoisted over the United Nations. Other than the flag, there will be little else to mark the occasion of Pope Francis’ address to the UN General Assembly. In fact, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s office had to convince the pope’s team to accept even that honor.
The issue first came up when Palestine, the assembly’s other permanent observer, promoted a resolution to allow the two nonmember banners to stand next to 193 member flags.
The issue first came up when Palestine, the assembly’s other permanent observer, promoted a resolution to allow the two nonmember banners to stand next to 193 member flags.
A remembrance of my dad: Husband, father, WWII veteran, and faithful witness to Jesus Christ
My Dad, Faithful Witness |Blogs | NCRegister.comNASH: My dad had a great devotion to Jesus in his Divine Mercy and how we need to recognize our own need for that mercy, and thus repent and grow in holiness in an ongoing matter.
Dad also had a great devotion to Our Lord in his Sacred Heart. We grew up with an image of the Sacred Heart in our home, and I’ve long had one in my own home wherever l’ve lived.
And as Notre Dame football players tap their locker-room sign — “Play Like a Champion Today” — before they go out to do battle on the gridiron, and Michigan players do the same regarding their own sign — “Those Who Stay Will Be Champions” — so I do for an even nobler purpose, with my own image of the Sacred Heart, whenever I leave my bedroom each day, and say, “Help me do your will today, Lord,” or similar words.
Dad also had a great devotion to Our Lord in his Sacred Heart. We grew up with an image of the Sacred Heart in our home, and I’ve long had one in my own home wherever l’ve lived.
And as Notre Dame football players tap their locker-room sign — “Play Like a Champion Today” — before they go out to do battle on the gridiron, and Michigan players do the same regarding their own sign — “Those Who Stay Will Be Champions” — so I do for an even nobler purpose, with my own image of the Sacred Heart, whenever I leave my bedroom each day, and say, “Help me do your will today, Lord,” or similar words.
Peter among us: What I saw in Philadelphia
Peter Among Us: What I Saw in Philadelphia |Blogs | NCRegister.comMCDONALD: If I wanted to convey some sense of the week in Philadelphia for the World Meeting of Families, I could write about isolated images of joyful individuals and whole families, nuns and priests, and even bishops, gathered as the body of Christ in the city.
When it was over, though, I had to wonder how the leader of a faith reviled by elite and popular culture had suddenly become a beloved figure of national affection and interest. America was “All Francis, All the Time.” It was wall-to-wall coverage. It was inescapable.
Was it merely the response to a cult of personality, a group madness stoked to frenzy by cheering crowds and then transmitted via media?
When it was over, though, I had to wonder how the leader of a faith reviled by elite and popular culture had suddenly become a beloved figure of national affection and interest. America was “All Francis, All the Time.” It was wall-to-wall coverage. It was inescapable.
Was it merely the response to a cult of personality, a group madness stoked to frenzy by cheering crowds and then transmitted via media?
The clever invention that Disney uses to keep your arms and legs safe at all times
How Disney Ensures That Your Arms Won't Get Torn Off On Rides: LAist: You may be told to keep your arms and legs in the vehicle at all times when you get on a roller coaster or ride, but it's unlikely that you'd actually lose a limb if you disobeyed thanks to something called the 'envelope of protection.'
Recently, Disney decided to ban selfie sticks from all their theme parks after California Screamin' had to be stopped due to a passenger pulling out a selfie stick mid-ride. A reddit user who goes by the name 'EnglishMobster' posted in a thread about the ban, claiming that he or she was a Disney employee, Jalopnik notes.
Recently, Disney decided to ban selfie sticks from all their theme parks after California Screamin' had to be stopped due to a passenger pulling out a selfie stick mid-ride. A reddit user who goes by the name 'EnglishMobster' posted in a thread about the ban, claiming that he or she was a Disney employee, Jalopnik notes.
6 differences between llamas and alpacas
6 Differences Between Llamas and Alpacas - Modern Farmer: At first glance, alpacas may look a lot like their camelid cousin the llama, but there are a variety of differences between these two South American animals.
The pope has a small but deadly army of elite warriors protecting him
The Pope Has A Small But Deadly Army Of Elite Warriors Protecting Him: If you have ever visited the Vatican, you have seen the stoic guards that look like they missed the bus to the local Renaissance Festival. The truth is they are a high-end military force made up of top ex-Swiss soldiers. And don’t let those spears fool you, they can shred you to pieces with them. If that doesn’t work, they have one of the finest firearms collections on the planet to finish the job.
The Pope, the Congress, and a Trappist monk
The Pope, The Congress, and a Trappist Monk |Blogs | NCRegister.comBARRON: I had the extraordinary privilege last week of following the Pope's pilgrimage at very close quarters. I had this access both as a bishop and as a commentator for NBC News. It was thrilling indeed to witness just how rapturously the American people received the Pope and how affected the Holy Father was by this reception. Many images stay vividly in my mind: the Pope kissing the forehead of the ten year old boy with cerebral palsy, the rabbi and imam praying together at the September 11th memorial, a little boy from a New York Catholic school showing the Pope how to maneuver his way around a Smart Board. But what stays most powerfully with me is the Pope speaking to a joint meeting of the United States Congress in Washington, D.C.
Phoenix Bishop Thomas Olmsted issues powerful letter "to Catholic men, my spiritual sons"
Into the Breach | Into the Breach: I begin this letter with a clarion call and clear charge to you, my sons and brothers in Christ: Men, do not hesitate to engage in the battle that is raging around you, the battle that is wounding our children and families, the battle that is distorting the dignity of both women and men. This battle is often hidden, but the battle is real. It is primarily spiritual, but it is progressively killing the remaining Christian ethos in our society and culture, and even in our own homes.
Pope Francis slams liberal Rome mayor as someone who "pretends to be Catholic"
Pope Francis Slams Rome Mayor Ignazio Marino As Pretend Catholic: Pope Francis Tuesday criticized the left-leaning mayor of Rome, Ignazio Marino, as someone who “pretends to be Catholic.”
The religious head’s unflattering assessment of Marino came in response to a question on whether the public official’s presence alongside the Pope in Philadelphia was the result of an invitation.
"I didn’t invite the mayor. Is that clear? I asked the organisers and they didn’t invite him either,” the pope responded, according to Agence France-Presse. “He professes to be Catholic, it came on him all of a sudden. It doesn’t happen like that."
The religious head’s unflattering assessment of Marino came in response to a question on whether the public official’s presence alongside the Pope in Philadelphia was the result of an invitation.
"I didn’t invite the mayor. Is that clear? I asked the organisers and they didn’t invite him either,” the pope responded, according to Agence France-Presse. “He professes to be Catholic, it came on him all of a sudden. It doesn’t happen like that."
Once I started reading Bishop Olmsted's letter to men, I could not put it down
Into the Breach – Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted’s Letter to the Catholic Men in the Diocese of Phoenix | TOM PERNAPERNA: Knowing that it was about to be released, I was excited to read it quickly, not realizing that I was going to read in within hours of its initial release for the simple reason – I could not put it down! As a Catholic man, this letter says to me that there is so much more that I should be doing in my daily life. It makes me realize that some of the decisions I chose in my youth were not the best for me. It helps me realize that I am not alone, that other men, “bands of brothers,” are fighting just as I am fighting. Finally, it makes me realize that even in dark times, the light of Christ’s hope shines for all to see.
"The Pope was furious": Francis' dislike of Rome mayor revealed in prank call on radio program
Pope's dislike of Rome mayor revealed in prank call on radio programme | World news | The Guardian: Pope Francis has bestowed gifts on Fidel Castro, shared a laugh with Barack Obama, and frequently hosted his one-time nemesis, the Argentinian president, Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner, at the Vatican.
But when it comes to the mayor of Rome, Ignazio Marino, the otherwise cheerful Holy Father evidently just can’t stand the guy.
The first hint of tensions between the Bishop of Rome and Marino, a former surgeon, emerged on the pope’s flight home from Philadelphia.
But when it comes to the mayor of Rome, Ignazio Marino, the otherwise cheerful Holy Father evidently just can’t stand the guy.
The first hint of tensions between the Bishop of Rome and Marino, a former surgeon, emerged on the pope’s flight home from Philadelphia.
When Dorothy Day tried to stop Cardinal Spellman from depriving working men of their wages...
When Prominent Catholics Opposed Dorothy Day - The New York Times: When he invoked Dorothy Day in his speech to Congress, Pope Francis gave hope to thousands of cooks, servers, salespeople and janitors in Washington, D.C. who work for private-sector contractors at federal venues, including the Smithsonian, Union Station, the Pentagon and the Capitol.
The employees, who have been striking periodically since 2013 for higher pay and a union, have argued that the federal government is effectively the nation’s largest low-wage employer because it contracts widely with companies that pay poorly even while profiting greatly.
The employees, who have been striking periodically since 2013 for higher pay and a union, have argued that the federal government is effectively the nation’s largest low-wage employer because it contracts widely with companies that pay poorly even while profiting greatly.
7 ways St. Jerome’s Vulgate helped shape the Catholic Church
7 Ways St. Jerome’s Vulgate Helped Shaped the ChurchBEALE: For roughly one thousand years, it was the Bible of Western Christendom. It was the version to which European Christians turned to compose their prayers and liturgies, that great saints consulted in their meditations, and that the greatest scholars quoted in their treatises.
It’s harder to think of a translation of the Bible that has had more staying power than St. Jerome’s Latin version, known as the Vulgate, which was completed late in the fourth century and held sway over the Church through the Council of Trent, in the mid-1500s. Of course, the Vulgate is not the work of Jerome alone: he adopted many old Latin translations that preceded him and his own translation would be subject to later revisions. But it’s undoubtedly thanks to his theological and linguistic genius that the Vulgate endured for so long.
It’s harder to think of a translation of the Bible that has had more staying power than St. Jerome’s Latin version, known as the Vulgate, which was completed late in the fourth century and held sway over the Church through the Council of Trent, in the mid-1500s. Of course, the Vulgate is not the work of Jerome alone: he adopted many old Latin translations that preceded him and his own translation would be subject to later revisions. But it’s undoubtedly thanks to his theological and linguistic genius that the Vulgate endured for so long.
The Vatican has a surprise for pilgrims venerating St. Maria Goretti in the U.S.
Vatican’s Surprise for Pilgrims Venerating Maria Goretti in U.S. |Blogs | NCRegister.comPRONECHEN: More good news for those attending St. Maria Goretti’s Pilgrimage of Mercy that began days ago in the United States.
From the Vatican, the Apostolic Penitentiary issued a Plenary Indulgence under the usual conditions for all those who go to venerate St. Maria Goretti during this September-November tour.
Here is the decree itself...
From the Vatican, the Apostolic Penitentiary issued a Plenary Indulgence under the usual conditions for all those who go to venerate St. Maria Goretti during this September-November tour.
Here is the decree itself...
This is Arianism all over again, and we must fight it...
This Is Arianism All Over Again, and We Must Fight It |Blogs | NCRegister.comLONGENECKER: Heresies are like weeds. They keep coming back. The thing is, they come back in different guises. In the fourth-century Arianism was part of the great debate over the divinity of Christ and therefore the definition of the Holy Trinity. Today Arianism takes a different form, and comes to us in the guise of humanism. By “humanism” I mean that belief system that takes man as the measure of all things. This humanism is a conglomeration of different modernistic beliefs, but the summary of it all is materialism—that this physical world is all there is. There is no spiritual realm, no heaven or hell, and therefore the advancement of the human race in this physical realm is the only thing fighting for.
How do you know what belongs in the Bible?
How Do You Know What Belongs in the Bible? | Catholic AnswersKEATING: The most overlooked part of the Bible, apologetically speaking, is the table of contents. It does more than just tell us the pages on which the constituent books begin. It tells us that the Bible is a collection of books, and that implies a Collector. The identity of the Collector is what chiefly distinguishes the Protestant from the Catholic.
Douglas Wilson knows this. Writing in Credenda Agenda, a periodical espousing the Reformed faith, he notes that “the problem with contemporary Protestants is that they have no doctrine of the table of contents. With the approach that is popular in conservative Evangelical circles, one simply comes to the Bible by means of an epistemological lurch. The Bible ‘just is,’ and any questions about how it got here are dismissed as a nuisance. But time passes, the questions remain unanswered, the silence becomes awkward, and conversions of thoughtful Evangelicals to Rome proceed apace.”
Douglas Wilson knows this. Writing in Credenda Agenda, a periodical espousing the Reformed faith, he notes that “the problem with contemporary Protestants is that they have no doctrine of the table of contents. With the approach that is popular in conservative Evangelical circles, one simply comes to the Bible by means of an epistemological lurch. The Bible ‘just is,’ and any questions about how it got here are dismissed as a nuisance. But time passes, the questions remain unanswered, the silence becomes awkward, and conversions of thoughtful Evangelicals to Rome proceed apace.”
Cecile Richards, Kim Davis and the Dictatorship of Relativism
Cecile Richards, Kim Davis and the Dictatorship of RelativismLONGENECKER: In watching the grilling that Cecile Richards–the CEO of Planned Parenthood received yesterday, what I found interesting was the way she deflected all questions that had anything to do with what might be right or wrong.
She made it clear that Planned Parenthood was “judgement free” and that they respected the choices the women had made about their own bodies. Time and again, when being questioned by Congressmen she said, “I respect the views of others.” or “There are different opinions on this matter which are sincerely held.” or “I understand that your views may differ from mine, and I respect that.”
She made it clear that Planned Parenthood was “judgement free” and that they respected the choices the women had made about their own bodies. Time and again, when being questioned by Congressmen she said, “I respect the views of others.” or “There are different opinions on this matter which are sincerely held.” or “I understand that your views may differ from mine, and I respect that.”
Pope's Wednesday Audience: “God builds bridges when we build walls”
VIS news - Holy See Press Office: Pope Francis on his apostolic trip to Cuba and the United States: The catechesis of this Wednesday's general audience in St. Peter's Square was dedicated to the Holy Father's recent apostolic trip in Cuba and the United States, which originated with his wish to participate in the Eighth World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia on 28 September. The visit was extended to include a visit to the United States, to the headquarters of the United Nations, and to Cuba, which was the first stage of his itinerary. The Pope took the opportunity to once again express his gratitude to the president of Cuba Raul Castro, the president of the United States Barack Obama, and the secretary general of the United Nations, Ban Ki-Moon, for the welcome they reserved to him, and to the bishops and collaborators in the organisation of the trip for their work.
What St. Jerome can teach internet trolls
CatholicHerald.co.uk � What St Jerome can teach internet trolls: ‘All their anxiety is about their clothes…. You would take them for bridegrooms rather than for clerics; all they think about is knowing the names and houses and doings of rich ladies.’ This was St Jerome’s acerbic assessment of the clerics of his day.
Never one to soften his words, St Jerome was notorious for his acid tongue that was meant to pillory people he knew and tell them exactly how they disgusted him.
St Jerome may have been born circa 342 in Aquileia, Italy, but reading his letters and his quotes today still makes for eye-watering reading. He had a particular loathing for the married state. When he was asked why one widow would not re-marry, St Jerome retorted, ‘having experienced the vexation of marriage, why should she be like the dog who returns to his own vomit?’ He had some stinging remarks for older women because they, ‘load their heads with other people’s hair, enamel a lost youth upon the wrinkles of age, and affect a maidenly timidity in the midst of a troop of grand children.’
Never one to soften his words, St Jerome was notorious for his acid tongue that was meant to pillory people he knew and tell them exactly how they disgusted him.
St Jerome may have been born circa 342 in Aquileia, Italy, but reading his letters and his quotes today still makes for eye-watering reading. He had a particular loathing for the married state. When he was asked why one widow would not re-marry, St Jerome retorted, ‘having experienced the vexation of marriage, why should she be like the dog who returns to his own vomit?’ He had some stinging remarks for older women because they, ‘load their heads with other people’s hair, enamel a lost youth upon the wrinkles of age, and affect a maidenly timidity in the midst of a troop of grand children.’
A conspiracy to elect Pope Francis? Don't believe it...
A conspiracy to elect Pope Francis? Don't believe it. - Catholic CultureLAWLER: Did a powerful group of cardinals conspire to unseat Pope Benedict XVI and elect Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio—Pope Francis—in his place? That sensational claim has been circulating in conservative Catholic internet sites. But the available facts don’t support the sensational headlines.
Edward Pentin, a respected Vatican journalist, broke the story to the English-speaking world with his report for the National Catholic Register. He reported—accurately—that a new biography of Belgium’s retired Cardinal Godfried Danneels has disclosed that the existence of a group of prelates who were committed to “progressive” causes, and unhappy with the influence exerted in the Vatican by then-Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger.
Edward Pentin, a respected Vatican journalist, broke the story to the English-speaking world with his report for the National Catholic Register. He reported—accurately—that a new biography of Belgium’s retired Cardinal Godfried Danneels has disclosed that the existence of a group of prelates who were committed to “progressive” causes, and unhappy with the influence exerted in the Vatican by then-Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger.
Crowd count at papal Mass in Philadelphia estimated at 142,000
800,000 at papal Mass? Better count again: So how many people were there, anyway?
One crowd-safety expert estimated the number of people at the papal Mass on Sunday at no more than 142,000.
But his calculations included only the Benjamin Franklin Parkway west of Logan Square, as a photo showing the complete roadway was unavailable.
Add in the people standing in the less-crowded area stretching back to City Hall, as well as the untold thousands who did not get through security, and who knows?
One crowd-safety expert estimated the number of people at the papal Mass on Sunday at no more than 142,000.
But his calculations included only the Benjamin Franklin Parkway west of Logan Square, as a photo showing the complete roadway was unavailable.
Add in the people standing in the less-crowded area stretching back to City Hall, as well as the untold thousands who did not get through security, and who knows?
“Stay strong”: Pope Francis met with Kentucky county clerk Kim Davis, Vatican confirms
Kim Davis, Kentucky County Clerk, Met Pope Francis - The New York Times: Pope Francis met privately in Washington last week with Kim Davis, the county clerk in Kentucky who defied a court order to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples, a Vatican spokesman confirmed on Wednesday. Ms. Davis, the Rowan County clerk, has been at the center of a nationwide controversy over whether government employees and private businesses have a legal right to refuse to serve same-sex couples. She spent five days in jail for disobeying a federal court order to issue the licenses.
Did Pope Francis really say Jesus was a failure?
Did Pope Francis Really Say Jesus Was a Failure? | Catholic AnswersAKIN: In his recent homily at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Pope Francis made a comment that some have leapt on as yet another outrage committed by the pope.
Allegedly, Pope Francis said that Jesus was a failure.
I’d provide links, but I don’t want to give the outrage mongers the traffic.
I have, however, received several queries from people saying they are troubled and wonder what to make of the remark.
So for those concerned by the situation, let’s take a look at it.
Allegedly, Pope Francis said that Jesus was a failure.
I’d provide links, but I don’t want to give the outrage mongers the traffic.
I have, however, received several queries from people saying they are troubled and wonder what to make of the remark.
So for those concerned by the situation, let’s take a look at it.
Tuesday, September 29, 2015
‘Apostolate of friendship’: How a group of Steubenville students in the 1990s went on to change the world
‘Apostolate of friendship’KLEMOND: Called by the Holy Spirit to immerse themselves in the Catholic Faith, a diverse group arrived at Franciscan University of Steubenville in the 1990s and soon forged an “apostolate of friendship” as they studied the Faith together and prepared for God’s next big assignments.
The small campus set in the hills of northeastern Ohio served as the launching pad for these friends to start national and international ministries. Two decades later, they continue to help each other promote the Faith to millions.
The small campus set in the hills of northeastern Ohio served as the launching pad for these friends to start national and international ministries. Two decades later, they continue to help each other promote the Faith to millions.
Why you feel like a fraud and how to overcome it
Why You Feel Like a Fraud and How to Overcome It | TIME: You don’t belong here.
You’re not good enough.
You got lucky.
They’re going to realize you aren’t that smart.
Ever heard this voice in your head? You’re far from alone. It’s called “impostor syndrome.”
More than 70% of successful people have felt it at one point.
You’re not good enough.
You got lucky.
They’re going to realize you aren’t that smart.
Ever heard this voice in your head? You’re far from alone. It’s called “impostor syndrome.”
More than 70% of successful people have felt it at one point.
Mercy, dialogue to be the focus of World Communications Day
Mercy, dialogue to be the focus of World Communications Day :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): Announced Tuesday, this year’s theme for World Communications Day is inspired by the upcoming Jubilee of Mercy, and stresses that social communications should be centered on mercy, dialogue and welcome.
The Pontifical Council of Social Communication announced the choice of “Communication and Mercy: a fruitful encounter” in a Sept. 29 communique from the Vatican.
“Clearly determined” by the Holy Year for Mercy, the theme “highlights the capacity of good communication to open up a space for dialogue, mutual understanding and reconciliation, thereby allowing fruitful human encounters to flourish,” the communique read.
The Pontifical Council of Social Communication announced the choice of “Communication and Mercy: a fruitful encounter” in a Sept. 29 communique from the Vatican.
“Clearly determined” by the Holy Year for Mercy, the theme “highlights the capacity of good communication to open up a space for dialogue, mutual understanding and reconciliation, thereby allowing fruitful human encounters to flourish,” the communique read.
China blacks out news of papal visit to America
CatholicHerald.co.uk � China black out papal visit to America: Competing with Pope Francis was never going to be easy. So China’s state media gave their leader a helping hand over the past week, all but ignoring the Pope as President Xi Jinping made his own tour of the United States, reported ucanews.com.
By the time the Pontiff flew out of Philadelphia late September 27, China’s national broadcaster CCTV had made no mention of his trip, ucanews.com reported.
“My impression is that coverage of the Pope’s visit to the US was minimal in mainland China, if at all,” said Yuen-ying Chan, a director of the China Media Project at the University of Hong Kong, which monitors media coverage in China.
By the time the Pontiff flew out of Philadelphia late September 27, China’s national broadcaster CCTV had made no mention of his trip, ucanews.com reported.
“My impression is that coverage of the Pope’s visit to the US was minimal in mainland China, if at all,” said Yuen-ying Chan, a director of the China Media Project at the University of Hong Kong, which monitors media coverage in China.
Carly Fiorina is making life tough for pro-abortion feminists
Carly Fiorina is Making Life Tough for Pro-Abortion Feminists |Blogs | NCRegister.comDESMOND: For years, Cecile Richard, ruled the roost. Since the former labor organizer was named president of Planned Parenthood, she has emerged as a key ally of President Obama and is celebrated as one of the most influential women in the United States.
But “the times they are a changin’,” as they say. A slew of undercover videos that appear to show Planned Parenthood affiliates trafficking in the sale of fetal body parts have badly damaged the moral credibility the nation's largest abortion provider. Today, Sept. 29, Richards will testify before the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, which is investigating whether Planned Parenthood, which receives over $500 million annually in taxpayer funds, may have broken the law.
But “the times they are a changin’,” as they say. A slew of undercover videos that appear to show Planned Parenthood affiliates trafficking in the sale of fetal body parts have badly damaged the moral credibility the nation's largest abortion provider. Today, Sept. 29, Richards will testify before the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, which is investigating whether Planned Parenthood, which receives over $500 million annually in taxpayer funds, may have broken the law.
Nearly 800,000 sign appeal calling on Pope Francis to clarify Church doctrine
Nearly 800,000 Sign Appeal Calling on Pope Francis to Clarify Church Doctrine |Blogs | NCRegister.comPENTIN: A petition of nearly 800,000 signatures from individuals and associations around the world including 202 prelates was presented to Pope Francis today, calling on the Holy Father to issue words of clarity on the Church's teaching on marriage and family.
The “filial petition”, which has received 790,150 signatures since the appeal was launched in March, reflects concerns emanating from last year’s Extraordinary Synod.
The appeal expresses concern about “widespread confusion” arising from the possibility that “a breach” had been opened within the Church at last year's meeting, one “that would accept adultery—by permitting divorced and then civilly remarried Catholics to receive Holy Communion—and would virtually accept even homosexual unions when such practices are categorically condemned as being contrary to Divine and natural law.”
The “filial petition”, which has received 790,150 signatures since the appeal was launched in March, reflects concerns emanating from last year’s Extraordinary Synod.
The appeal expresses concern about “widespread confusion” arising from the possibility that “a breach” had been opened within the Church at last year's meeting, one “that would accept adultery—by permitting divorced and then civilly remarried Catholics to receive Holy Communion—and would virtually accept even homosexual unions when such practices are categorically condemned as being contrary to Divine and natural law.”
There are some other New Testament authors you rarely hear about
The New Testament authors you rarely hear about |Blogs | NCRegister.comAKIN: Who wrote the New Testament?
Let’s see . . . there was Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, and Paul.
Those are the easy ones.
Anybody else?
If you think about it for a moment, you’ll likely come up with James, Peter, and Jude.
Good. Now, who else was there?
At this point, your mind might flash to the book of Hebrews, which doesn’t list its author. Some have proposed that it was written by Apollos, Barnabas, Luke, or another member of the Pauline circle, but I’m not talking about it’s unnamed author. I’m looking for named authors.
Let’s see . . . there was Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, and Paul.
Those are the easy ones.
Anybody else?
If you think about it for a moment, you’ll likely come up with James, Peter, and Jude.
Good. Now, who else was there?
At this point, your mind might flash to the book of Hebrews, which doesn’t list its author. Some have proposed that it was written by Apollos, Barnabas, Luke, or another member of the Pauline circle, but I’m not talking about it’s unnamed author. I’m looking for named authors.
Monday, September 28, 2015
ISIL targets Christians, and the State Department does little to help. Here's where you come in...
Rev. Andrew Nelson: Will you help end genocide of Christians in Middle East? | New Hampshire: Imagine sitting home one day when suddenly you hear loudspeakers screaming from cars outside. With a hate-filled militancy, soldiers declare you must abandon your faith and pay a tax that is more than the value of your home, or leave. You are told you have one hour to decide.
To stay is to die, but so is to leave. As you try to decide what to do, you hear your beloved elderly neighbor arguing with the soldiers, explaining that this is not how we are meant to live, and then you hear a shot and the screams of his daughters as they are taken away.
To stay is to die, but so is to leave. As you try to decide what to do, you hear your beloved elderly neighbor arguing with the soldiers, explaining that this is not how we are meant to live, and then you hear a shot and the screams of his daughters as they are taken away.
Thus saith The New York Times: Compassion is the opposite of Catholic doctrine
Thus saith The New York Times: Compassion is the opposite of Catholic doctrine — GetReligionMATTINGLY: In the end, the Jesuit pope added to the debates, but did not openly address the key doctrines linked to marriage and sexuality that are causing so much tension in his flock, as in so many others.
Don't take my word on this. We have The New York Times saying on the record that the pope kept speaking in a pastoral tone, asking his shepherds to be more loving and compassionate as they strive to welcome wayward Catholics back into the sacramental fold. But did he actual show his hand in terms of the cards he may or not play on the truly explosive doctrinal issues, such as changing the contents of the Catholic Catechism on divorce and gay sex?
Don't take my word on this. We have The New York Times saying on the record that the pope kept speaking in a pastoral tone, asking his shepherds to be more loving and compassionate as they strive to welcome wayward Catholics back into the sacramental fold. But did he actual show his hand in terms of the cards he may or not play on the truly explosive doctrinal issues, such as changing the contents of the Catholic Catechism on divorce and gay sex?
“Ideological colonization”: An apt description of modern imperialism
“Ideological Colonization”: An Apt Description of Modern Imperialism |Blogs | NCRegister.comPOPE: Pope Francis has frequently mentioned the problem of “ideological colonization.” In many ways it is a masterful phrase which turns the tables on many of the Western Liberal Democracies.
For indeed, in America and in many European countries there is an often self-congratulatory narrative that we have shaken off our colonial era where we often ruthlessly suppressed native or indigenous peoples in the Americas, India, Africa and as far as the South Pacific. The usual notion is that our ancestors were bad people for doing this and acted unjustly and oppressively. We on the other hand have been enlightened and no longer do this terrible stuff. The sun now does set on the British Empire and India and other far flung colonies in Africa are now free. Colonialism is a thing of the “unenlightened past.”
For indeed, in America and in many European countries there is an often self-congratulatory narrative that we have shaken off our colonial era where we often ruthlessly suppressed native or indigenous peoples in the Americas, India, Africa and as far as the South Pacific. The usual notion is that our ancestors were bad people for doing this and acted unjustly and oppressively. We on the other hand have been enlightened and no longer do this terrible stuff. The sun now does set on the British Empire and India and other far flung colonies in Africa are now free. Colonialism is a thing of the “unenlightened past.”
If you're not a prophet, don't prophesy
The Urge to Prophesy |Blogs | NCRegister.comSHEA: Back when I was in high school (Cascade High 1976: Home of the Bruins, School of Pride), one of the trendier ideas being talked about was Futurism — literally, the “study of the future.” I remember watching some film with Orson Welles narrating it at his most pompous “I am from the elite, and this is what we are all talking about at our wine and cheese parties” best. And being a dumb kid from the suburbs, I took him at his word because he had a beard, an important-sounding voice, and his thoughts seemed really smart, almost English smart, which, as every American high schooler knows, is as smart as a person can get. The only thing more potent than getting Welles to intone something about The Future was to get an English guy to do it. That more or less established whatever was being asserted as a Scientific Fact.
Dorothy Day's papal endorsement
[Pope Francis's Healing Balm| National Review OnlineLOPEZ: Pope Francis talked about men and women and natural law at the U.N. No small thing. In fact, this is fundamental, foundational. Yet, do you see how he’s bringing people to the water of Church teaching, of God’s laws and love? Gently, as a tender father who knows what hell hearts have been ravaged by. He will not pour salt into the wounds, but will apply a healing balm with the presentation of alternatives and the full vision that allows life to make sense again. This is the integral ecology he speaks of. This is a new, reintroduced vocabulary for us, by which we might actually communicate with one another again.
Argentine family meets Pope after 13,000-mile drive
Argentine family meets Pope after 13,000-mile drive - CNN.com: The Walker family from Argentina traveled 13,000 miles in a remodeled Volkswagen bus to be in Philadelphia for the papal visit. Never in their wildest dreams did they imagine they would actually meet the Pope. But on Sunday, their phone rang at 6 a.m. It was the Vatican calling.
Pope Francis had taken notice of his fellow citizens from Buenos Aires and their 194-day journey through 13 countries. He decided to take the time to meet with Catire Walker, 41, his wife, Noel Zemborain, 39, and their four children, ages 3 to 12.
Pope Francis had taken notice of his fellow citizens from Buenos Aires and their 194-day journey through 13 countries. He decided to take the time to meet with Catire Walker, 41, his wife, Noel Zemborain, 39, and their four children, ages 3 to 12.
Catholic divorce "doesn't exist", Pope Francis says on return flight from U.S.
Catholic Divorce 'Doesn't Exist,' Pope Francis Says on Return Flight From US | Daily News | NCRegister.com: Pope Francis told journalists Sunday on board his flight to Rome that giving Communion to divorced and remarried Catholics is a “simplistic” solution to the issue, and stressed that there are also other problems that need to be discussed.
“(It) seems a bit simplistic to me to say that the synod, that the solution for these people is that they can receive Communion. That’s not the only solution (asked for).”
What the instrumentum laboris (working document) proposes “is a lot,” he said. “Also, the problem of the new unions of divorcees isn’t the only problem.”
“(It) seems a bit simplistic to me to say that the synod, that the solution for these people is that they can receive Communion. That’s not the only solution (asked for).”
What the instrumentum laboris (working document) proposes “is a lot,” he said. “Also, the problem of the new unions of divorcees isn’t the only problem.”
Sunday, September 27, 2015
On the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, a grand finale... to the Synod's run-up
Whispers in the Loggia: "Our Father Will Not Be Outdone In Generosity" – On the Parkway, A Grand Finale... To Synod's Run-UpPALMO: For what it's worth, folks, this scribe's let life take precedence over work these last 24 hours... and, well, to say that being surrounded by every facet of my life in my town has been a beautiful, moving and happy experience doesn't begin to cut it. To everyone who's braved the security to be part of the ride, a lifetime's thanks.
And now, after a three year roller-coaster of waiting, planning and every emotion under the sun, it all comes down to this – before a crowd of at least half a million, the Pope's closing Mass of this eighth World Meeting of Families and his longest overseas trip to date on Philadelphia's Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
And now, after a three year roller-coaster of waiting, planning and every emotion under the sun, it all comes down to this – before a crowd of at least half a million, the Pope's closing Mass of this eighth World Meeting of Families and his longest overseas trip to date on Philadelphia's Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
With unscheduled “Pie Jesu”, boy soprano brings down the house in Philly
With Unscheduled “Pie Jesu”, Boy Soprano Brings Down the House | Aleteia.orgSCALIA: When fourteen year-old Bobby Hill learned he had been chosen to sing before Pope Francis at the Festival of Families, he declared “I want to be discovered by Andrea Bocelli backstage!”
Having sung with the Keystone State Boychoir for seven years, Hill is an experienced singer for his age, and he demonstrated a good deal of self-possession after being informed that — due to a last-minute glitch — he would be sent out on the stage, unannounced and all alone, to sing an a’cappella version of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Pie Jesu”.
Having sung with the Keystone State Boychoir for seven years, Hill is an experienced singer for his age, and he demonstrated a good deal of self-possession after being informed that — due to a last-minute glitch — he would be sent out on the stage, unannounced and all alone, to sing an a’cappella version of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Pie Jesu”.
Tears or fears? The pope, the speaker, prayers and some amazing quotes in a notebook
Tears or fears? The pope, the speaker, prayers and some amazing quotes in a notebook — GetReligionMATTINGLY: Just when you thought this was going to be a quiet week (and weekend) on the religion beat, there was an earthquake in Beltway land.
Anyone who has lived in Washington, D.C., knows that the job of Speaker of the House may be the single most overlooked piece in the puzzle that is the U.S. government, in terms of the public failing to understand how much power resides in that office.
So Speaker John A. Boehner, one of DC's most public Catholic voices, hit the exit door only hours after fulfilling his dream of seeing a pope address Congress. This also happened, of course, in the midst of fierce infighting over morality and money – to be specific, the mountains of tax dollars going into the coffers of an institution at the heart of what St. John Paul II liked to call "The Culture of Death."
Anyone who has lived in Washington, D.C., knows that the job of Speaker of the House may be the single most overlooked piece in the puzzle that is the U.S. government, in terms of the public failing to understand how much power resides in that office.
So Speaker John A. Boehner, one of DC's most public Catholic voices, hit the exit door only hours after fulfilling his dream of seeing a pope address Congress. This also happened, of course, in the midst of fierce infighting over morality and money – to be specific, the mountains of tax dollars going into the coffers of an institution at the heart of what St. John Paul II liked to call "The Culture of Death."
Answer God's call now, for you never know when he'll call again
Answer God's Call Now, For We Never Know When He'll Call Again |Blogs | NCRegister.comFENELON: We never know when we’ll be called.
That’s the message that rang true in my heart as I meditated on Pope Francis’ homily during his private Mass with bishops, clergy, and religious at the Cathedral Basilica of Sts. Peter and Paul in Philadelphia.
The Holy Father cited the example of St. Katherine Drexel’s calling by Pope Leo XIII. He related the story of Katherine approaching the elderly Pope and expressing her concern about the needs of the missions.
Pope Leo’s wise and thoughtful response to St. Katherine was, “And what about you? What are you going to do?”
That’s the message that rang true in my heart as I meditated on Pope Francis’ homily during his private Mass with bishops, clergy, and religious at the Cathedral Basilica of Sts. Peter and Paul in Philadelphia.
The Holy Father cited the example of St. Katherine Drexel’s calling by Pope Leo XIII. He related the story of Katherine approaching the elderly Pope and expressing her concern about the needs of the missions.
Pope Leo’s wise and thoughtful response to St. Katherine was, “And what about you? What are you going to do?”
Pope Francis imparts a prophetic message from Abe Lincoln's lectern
At the Lincoln Lectern, Pope Francis Imparts Prophetic Message |Blogs | NCRegister.comSHIMEK: Pope Francis speaks in a way that encourages dialogue among peoples and nations, addressing issues that have become divided in the common mentality. He proclaims a prophetic politics that transcends reductionist schemes and polarizations, eschewing a fundamentalist interpretation of the Gospel that trumpets certain truths to the exclusion and neglect of others. His is not a message intended for a select political group that parcels out the Christian creed in half truths. Rather, he comes among us as the 266th successor of St. Peter, standing in the tradition of St. John XXIII, Blessed Paul VI, St. John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI, teaching the entirety of the Christian Gospel.
The pope, the seminary and the seminarians
The Pope, the Seminary and the Seminarians |Blogs | NCRegister.comGREYDANUS: Two days ago, at St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York, I witnessed screaming nuns and even priests standing on pews with their phones in the air, as Pope Francis came down the aisle, looking not unlike teenagers at the arrival of some performing artist.�
The nearly 150 seminarians at my alma mater, St. Charles Borromeo Seminary in Wynnewood, Pa., who met Pope Francis on the steps of the theologate after the Pope's Mass at Philadelphia's Cathedral-Basilica of Sts. Peter and Paul, couldn't match the volume of the capacity crowd of nearly 25,000 at St. Pat's — but they more than matched their enthusiasm.�
For one thing, the seminarians weren't just cheering for the Vicar of Christ: They were welcoming him to their own home — and not merely as a visitor, but as a guest. Pope Francis will spend the night here for his sojourn in Philadelphia — not quite the first papal visit to the seminary, but certainly the first time a pope will stay here.�
The nearly 150 seminarians at my alma mater, St. Charles Borromeo Seminary in Wynnewood, Pa., who met Pope Francis on the steps of the theologate after the Pope's Mass at Philadelphia's Cathedral-Basilica of Sts. Peter and Paul, couldn't match the volume of the capacity crowd of nearly 25,000 at St. Pat's — but they more than matched their enthusiasm.�
For one thing, the seminarians weren't just cheering for the Vicar of Christ: They were welcoming him to their own home — and not merely as a visitor, but as a guest. Pope Francis will spend the night here for his sojourn in Philadelphia — not quite the first papal visit to the seminary, but certainly the first time a pope will stay here.�
I saw the pope in Paris when I was an atheist, and it changed me forever
I Saw the Pope in Paris When I Was an Atheist; It Changed Me | Aleteia.orgNOBLE: As Pope Francis traveled through the streets of Washington, DC, Aleteia.org interviewed some of the spectators enthusiastically greeting him. I was completely unsurprised to read young people from all different backgrounds admitting to the reporter that, though they were raised Catholic, they no longer believed in God, or the Church; though they liked Pope Francis, none of them seemed interested in returning to the sacraments.
I used to be one of those kids.
I used to be one of those kids.
Secularism is weaker than many people think
Pope Francis and the Not-Quite-Secular West - The New York TimesDOUTHAT: We have read a lot about the advance of secularization lately, and for good reason. Institutional religion has fallen on hard times in the United States, younger Americans are far more likely than any previous generation to lack any religious affiliation, and American society has made a fairly sudden swing toward social liberalism that’s exacerbating tensions between the current cultural consensus and the historic teachings of Western monotheism. Twenty years ago the U.S. looked like a clear religious exception to a modernity-equals-secularization trend, but since then we’ve been converging, at least to a modest extent, with the nations of Western Europe; that reality, at least, is hard to deny.
Why are the crowds frantic for Francis?
Why Are the Crowds Frantic for Francis?LONGENECKER: The Pope’s visit has been an astounding success with tens of thousands crowding to get a glimpse of him, the President and his family going out to greet him and the Majority Leader reduced to tears and chucking in his job as a result.
What’s happening? Are we about to witness a religious revival in America? Rod Dreher doesn’t think so. In a long article here he takes the religious temperature of Americans pretty fairly. Rod takes his usual pessimistic “We few we faithful few, let’s hunker down behind the bunkers” viewpoint–an opinion with which I have a good bit of sympathy.
What’s happening? Are we about to witness a religious revival in America? Rod Dreher doesn’t think so. In a long article here he takes the religious temperature of Americans pretty fairly. Rod takes his usual pessimistic “We few we faithful few, let’s hunker down behind the bunkers” viewpoint–an opinion with which I have a good bit of sympathy.
Pope Francis' somewhat different take on religious liberty
John Thavis | Pope Francis' somewhat different take on religious libertyTHAVIS: Well, that was interesting.
At the official “religious freedom” event during his U.S. visit, Pope Francis never mentioned the U.S. bishops’ “Fortnight for Freedom” campaigns, nor their battles over alleged religious discrimination on Obamacare provisions and conscience protection issues.
The bishops have certainly made this a priority. Here was Archbishop William E. Lori last June asking the faithful to support their efforts...
At the official “religious freedom” event during his U.S. visit, Pope Francis never mentioned the U.S. bishops’ “Fortnight for Freedom” campaigns, nor their battles over alleged religious discrimination on Obamacare provisions and conscience protection issues.
The bishops have certainly made this a priority. Here was Archbishop William E. Lori last June asking the faithful to support their efforts...
Pope Francis in Philadelphia: "The family is the most beautiful thing God made"
Pope: Family is the Most Beautiful Thing God Made | Daily News | NCRegister.com: A visibly moved Pope Francis ditched his prepared remarks in speaking to thousands of families gathered in Philadelphia Saturday night – giving an impromptu reflection on the beauty and dire importance of family life.
“The most beautiful thing that God did, the Bible says, was the family,” he said Sept. 26 at the celebration for families on the streets of Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
The Pope voiced his thanks at “the presence of all of you — who are a real witness that it’s worth being a family!” A society “is strong, solid and edified on beauty goodness and truth,” he added.
“The most beautiful thing that God did, the Bible says, was the family,” he said Sept. 26 at the celebration for families on the streets of Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
The Pope voiced his thanks at “the presence of all of you — who are a real witness that it’s worth being a family!” A society “is strong, solid and edified on beauty goodness and truth,” he added.
Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter hijacks papal appearance at Independence Hall to tout gay agenda
Mayor Nutter Attempts to Hijack Papal Appearance to Tout LGBT Rights |Blogs | NCRegister.comMATTARCHBOLD: In a disturbing turn of events, Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter, a graduate of a Jesuit high school, reportedly used the appearance of Pope Francis in Philadelphia to push the gay agenda.
Nutter had previously promised to ask the pope to "end judgment" of LGBT people by the church and then today, the mayor used his public appearance before hundreds of thousands of Catholics who gathered to see the pope to do just that.
Nutter had previously promised to ask the pope to "end judgment" of LGBT people by the church and then today, the mayor used his public appearance before hundreds of thousands of Catholics who gathered to see the pope to do just that.
Saturday, September 26, 2015
Pope Francis to Philadelphia priests, religious: It's your job to inspire vocations
Pope Francis to priests, religious: It's your job to inspire vocations :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): The Church today is called to foster among young people a sense of responsibility and enthusiasm for the Gospel mission, Pope Francis said on Saturday to group of priests and religious gathered in Philadelphia’s cathedral.
Saying Mass in the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul Sept. 26, the Roman Pontiff said creativity is needed for inspiring young people in parishes and schools to “have the same high ideals, generosity of spirit, and love for Christ and the Church”.
Saying Mass in the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul Sept. 26, the Roman Pontiff said creativity is needed for inspiring young people in parishes and schools to “have the same high ideals, generosity of spirit, and love for Christ and the Church”.
Friday, September 25, 2015
Rick Warren and Cardinal Sean O'Malley conclude World Meeting of Families
Rick Warren and Cardinal Sean O'Malley Conclude World Meeting of Families |Blogs | NCRegister.comMCDONALD: The World Meeting of Families finished with a capacity crowd listening to Rick Warren, bestselling author and pastor of Saddleback Church, and Cardinal Sean O'Malley of Boston taking the stage to talk about “The Joy of the Gospel of Life.”
Pastor Warren was invited by Pope Francis to be the concluding speaker at last November’s Humanum Colloquium at the Vatican.
Cardinal O’Malley addressed the importance of Warren being among so many Catholics: “It’s important that Rick Warren is here. This is a witness of unity that’s important in today’s world, as we strive to proclaim the gospel of life: the need to protect every human being from the first moment of conception until natural death, to defend the family as a sanctuary of life, and family as a sacred calling described on the first pages of the Bible as a man who leaves his mother and father to be joined in one flesh to his wife. It’s a great consolation to share this stage with a fellow Christian who is truly committed to preaching the Gospel. We are truly blessed by his presence and his friendship.”
Pastor Warren was invited by Pope Francis to be the concluding speaker at last November’s Humanum Colloquium at the Vatican.
Cardinal O’Malley addressed the importance of Warren being among so many Catholics: “It’s important that Rick Warren is here. This is a witness of unity that’s important in today’s world, as we strive to proclaim the gospel of life: the need to protect every human being from the first moment of conception until natural death, to defend the family as a sanctuary of life, and family as a sacred calling described on the first pages of the Bible as a man who leaves his mother and father to be joined in one flesh to his wife. It’s a great consolation to share this stage with a fellow Christian who is truly committed to preaching the Gospel. We are truly blessed by his presence and his friendship.”
Pope Francis to New York City: Jesus still walks our streets. Tell everyone!
Pope Francis to New York City: Jesus still walks our streets. Tell everyone! :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): Pope Francis on Friday had a brief, but urgent, reminder for the Catholics of New York City. They must proclaim the joy of God and remember to care for all those who go unnoticed in their metropolis, because they have seen the “great light” of Jesus Christ.
“Knowing that Jesus still walks our streets, that he is part of the lives of his people, that he is involved with us in one vast history of salvation, fills us with hope,” the Pope said during his homily at Mass at Madison Square Garden Sept. 25.
“Knowing that Jesus still walks our streets, that he is part of the lives of his people, that he is involved with us in one vast history of salvation, fills us with hope,” the Pope said during his homily at Mass at Madison Square Garden Sept. 25.
Channeling Bogie, Pope warns the UN: We won’t always have Paris
Channeling Bogie, Pope warns the UN: We won’t always have Paris | CruxALLEN: One of the iconic lines from “Casablanca” comes when Humphrey Bogart tells Ingrid Bergman, “We’ll always have Paris.” Speaking to the United Nations on Friday, Pope Francis effectively served up a negative version of that sentiment, insisting that we won’t always have Paris.
Paris, in this case, is a reference to a looming UN summit on climate change set to run from Nov. 30 to Dec. 11, known in shorthand as Cop21 because it’s the 21st yearly session of the “Conference of the Parties” to a 1992 UN framework convention on climate change.
It’s been clear for some time that Francis sees the Paris summit as a critical turning point.
Paris, in this case, is a reference to a looming UN summit on climate change set to run from Nov. 30 to Dec. 11, known in shorthand as Cop21 because it’s the 21st yearly session of the “Conference of the Parties” to a 1992 UN framework convention on climate change.
It’s been clear for some time that Francis sees the Paris summit as a critical turning point.
Pope's visit was "crystallizing moment" for Boehner; decision to resign "not made till last night"
John Boehner resigning from Congress - CNNPolitics.com: John Boehner, the Ohio Republican who steered his party to an overwhelming House majority in 2010, told colleagues Friday he's stepping down as Speaker and will leave Congress at the end of October.
The abrupt decision comes after he faced heavy pressure from conservatives to take a harder line on their causes, most recently over defunding Planned Parenthood.
Boehner, who has presided over the House since 2011, explained during a closed-door meeting with Republicans Friday morning that he had only planned to serve two terms as speaker but decided to hold onto his post after then-House Majority Leader Eric Cantor lost his seat during a primary last year, a Republican lawmaker in the room told CNN.
The abrupt decision comes after he faced heavy pressure from conservatives to take a harder line on their causes, most recently over defunding Planned Parenthood.
Boehner, who has presided over the House since 2011, explained during a closed-door meeting with Republicans Friday morning that he had only planned to serve two terms as speaker but decided to hold onto his post after then-House Majority Leader Eric Cantor lost his seat during a primary last year, a Republican lawmaker in the room told CNN.
At the United Nations, the pope 'makes it personal' on war, economics and the environment
John Thavis | At the United Nations, the pope 'makes it personal' on war, economics and the environmentTHAVIS: In the middle of his address to the United Nations today, Pope Francis called international leaders to an “examination of conscience.” In every situation of conflict, he said, “real human beings take precedence over partisan interests, however legitimate the latter may be.”
“In wars and conflicts there are individual persons, our brothers and sisters, men and women, young and old, boys and girls who weep, suffer and die. Human beings who are easily discarded when our only response is to draw up lists of problems, strategies and disagreements,” he said.
“In wars and conflicts there are individual persons, our brothers and sisters, men and women, young and old, boys and girls who weep, suffer and die. Human beings who are easily discarded when our only response is to draw up lists of problems, strategies and disagreements,” he said.
5 takeaways from the Pope's speech to the UN General Assembly
At UN, Pope Proclaims the Truth of Man and the Family |Blogs | NCRegister.comSHIMEK: This morning, in his much anticipated address to the General Assembly of the United Nations, Pope Francis placed himself within the context of that august body’s relationship with the Holy See. He made explicit mention of the visits to the UN’s General Assembly of the blessed Pope Paul VI in 1965, Pope St. John Paul II in 1979 and 1995, and Pope Benedict XVI in 2008.�
Why the Name of Jesus wasn't mentioned in the Pope's UN speech
Why the Name of Jesus Wasn't Mentioned in the Pope's UN Speech |Blogs | NCRegister.comPENTIN: In common with Pope Francis’ addresses at the White House and to Congress, the Holy Father chose not to mention Jesus Christ in his speech this morning to the United Nations.
It’s understandably causing quite a bit of head-scratching among some Catholic commentators who are keen to point out that the Pope speaks in the name of Jesus, and should therefore explicitly invoke his name in order to direct national and world leaders to the light of Christ and His teaching.
But this approach is not new: Benedict XVI didn’t refer to Christ in his speech at Westminster Hall in London in 2010, and made only once explicit reference to Him when he addressed the UN in 2008. (Pope St. John Paul II made six references to Christ in his speech there in 1995).�
It’s understandably causing quite a bit of head-scratching among some Catholic commentators who are keen to point out that the Pope speaks in the name of Jesus, and should therefore explicitly invoke his name in order to direct national and world leaders to the light of Christ and His teaching.
But this approach is not new: Benedict XVI didn’t refer to Christ in his speech at Westminster Hall in London in 2010, and made only once explicit reference to Him when he addressed the UN in 2008. (Pope St. John Paul II made six references to Christ in his speech there in 1995).�
Speaker of the House John Boehner to leave U.S. Congress at end of October
Boehner Will Resign from Congress - The New York Times: Speaker John A. Boehner will resign from Congress and give up his House seat at the end of October, according to aides in his office.
Continue reading the main story
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Mr. Boehner was under extreme pressure from the right wing of his conference over whether or not to defund Planned Parenthood in a bill to keep the government open.
Continue reading the main story
RELATED COVERAGE
John Boehner, Strong Abortion Foe, Is Imperiled by the Like-MindedSEPT. 17, 2015
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Abortion Bills Advance, Setting Up a ShowdownSEPT. 17, 2015
Mr. Boehner was under extreme pressure from the right wing of his conference over whether or not to defund Planned Parenthood in a bill to keep the government open.
The Pope before the world: Laudato looming, Francis at the UN
Whispers in the Loggia: The Pope Before the World – Laudato Looming, Francis At the UNPALMO: When the Vatican looks at New York as "caput mundi" – the modern "Capital of the World" – just to be clear, it's not talking about the city's prominence in media. If anything, to use a Francis-ism, that's about as self-referential as it gets.
Far from the cameras and newsrooms, Gotham's prominence in Rome's eyes is drawn instead from the presence of two other key global institutions: the financial markets and the United Nations. And so it is that this PopeTrip Friday begins with Francis' turn at a hallowed tradition for the pontiffs, addressing the General Assembly, this time amid the body's observance of its 70th anniversary.
Far from the cameras and newsrooms, Gotham's prominence in Rome's eyes is drawn instead from the presence of two other key global institutions: the financial markets and the United Nations. And so it is that this PopeTrip Friday begins with Francis' turn at a hallowed tradition for the pontiffs, addressing the General Assembly, this time amid the body's observance of its 70th anniversary.
Thursday, September 24, 2015
4.5 stars for Michael Voris
(90) Karl Keating - 4.5 STARS FOR MICHAEL VORIS On Monday I...KEATING: On Monday I criticized that day’s episode of Michael Voris’s “The Vortex” for misstating that the Society of St. Pius X, the group founded by the late Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre, is in schism.
I said that that was a mischaracterization, and I said I hoped that in later episodes of Voris’s week-long expose of the SSPX he would be able to correct that error.
I just finished watching his wrap-up presentation, an unusually long episode of “The Vortex” (1 hour and 6 minutes). I have to say that it was very well done. I found a few very minor slip-ups, such as an occasional infelicitous (but not inflammatory) word choice and the misspelling of a Latin word (“The Vortex” commonly features lots of on-screen text, and sometimes there’s a typo).
I said that that was a mischaracterization, and I said I hoped that in later episodes of Voris’s week-long expose of the SSPX he would be able to correct that error.
I just finished watching his wrap-up presentation, an unusually long episode of “The Vortex” (1 hour and 6 minutes). I have to say that it was very well done. I found a few very minor slip-ups, such as an occasional infelicitous (but not inflammatory) word choice and the misspelling of a Latin word (“The Vortex” commonly features lots of on-screen text, and sometimes there’s a typo).
From balcony of Congress, Pope calls children “most important of all”
From Balcony of Congress, Pope Calls Children “Most important of all!” | Aleteia.orgSCALIA: “I’ll ask God to bless [the children]. Father of all, bless these; bless each of them; bless the families. Bless them all. And I ask you all, please, to pray for me. And if there are among you, any who do not believe, or cannot pray, I ask you please, to send good-meant wishes, my way. Thank you very much, and God Bless America!”
Pope in DC: Ssssshhhh! Francis also slipped away to visit the Little Sisters of the Poor
Pope in DC: Ssssshhhh! Francis also slipped away to visit the Little Sisters of the Poor — GetReligionMATTINGLY: Whenever the pope – any pope, at any point in time – comes to town, the visit generates thousands of words of content from speeches, homilies, remarks by dignitaries and in reactions from Catholics and others on the street. It's a classic case of the big journalism question: OK. What's the news here? What goes at the top of the main story?
Throw in the superstar status Pope Francis currently enjoys with the mainstream press and this question becomes even more important.
Throw in the superstar status Pope Francis currently enjoys with the mainstream press and this question becomes even more important.
Pope to Congress: "Protect and defend human life at every stage of its development"
Pope Francis Congressional Address: A Dialogue with Four Faces of America | Daily News | NCRegister.com: I am most grateful for your invitation to address this joint session of Congress in “the land of the free and the home of the brave.” I would like to think that the reason for this is that I, too, am a son of this great continent, from which we have all received so much and toward which we share a common responsibility.
Each son or daughter of a given country has a mission, a personal and social responsibility. Your own responsibility as members of Congress is to enable this country, by your legislative activity, to grow as a nation. You are the face of its people, their representatives. You are called to defend and preserve the dignity of your fellow citizens in the tireless and demanding pursuit of the common good, for this is the chief aim of all politics. A political society endures when it seeks, as a vocation, to satisfy common needs by stimulating the growth of all its members, especially those in situations of greater vulnerability or risk. Legislative activity is always based on care for the people. To this you have been invited, called and convened by those who elected you.
Each son or daughter of a given country has a mission, a personal and social responsibility. Your own responsibility as members of Congress is to enable this country, by your legislative activity, to grow as a nation. You are the face of its people, their representatives. You are called to defend and preserve the dignity of your fellow citizens in the tireless and demanding pursuit of the common good, for this is the chief aim of all politics. A political society endures when it seeks, as a vocation, to satisfy common needs by stimulating the growth of all its members, especially those in situations of greater vulnerability or risk. Legislative activity is always based on care for the people. To this you have been invited, called and convened by those who elected you.
"Mister Speaker, the Pope of the Holy See": Holy Father addresses joint session of Congress
Whispers in the Loggia: "Mister Speaker, The Holy Father" – An Epic First, The Pope in CongressPALMO: For all the sprawling schedule of this Stateside PopeTrip – three speeches, six days, 16 major talks and even more engagements – in the popular imagination, one event has loomed above them all... and this Thursday morning, here it comes.
In an act that would've been unthinkable not all that long ago, at 9.20am, the 266th Bishop of Rome will become the first to visit the United States Capitol, where he'll be taken to the House Chamber to deliver an unprecedented address to a joint meeting of Congress.
In an act that would've been unthinkable not all that long ago, at 9.20am, the 266th Bishop of Rome will become the first to visit the United States Capitol, where he'll be taken to the House Chamber to deliver an unprecedented address to a joint meeting of Congress.
When and where to watch this weekend's total lunar eclipse
When and Where to Watch This Weekend's Total Lunar Eclipse | WIRED: Late on Sunday evening, September 27, the Earth will slide precisely between the sun and the moon, throwing the satellite into a rusty red shadow. This’ll be the fourth total lunar eclipse in two years, but that doesn’t make it boring. Quite the opposite—this week’s event will be the last in this rare tetrad, and the most dramatic.
Wednesday, September 23, 2015
Yogi Berra: 14 World Series, 3 MVPs, and 65 years of marriage
Yogi Berra: 14 World Series, 3 MVPs, and 65 Years of Marriage |Blogs | NCRegister.comKNAP: In the world of professional sports these days, a long-term marriage is a cause for celebration.� American baseball icon Yogi Berra, who passed away on Tuesday, was married 65 years to his sweetheart Carmen.
Born Lawrence Peter to Italian immigrants in St. Louis, Missouri, Berra dropped out of school after eighth grade. He started playing baseball in the local American Legion teams and was quickly noted for his talent.� However he could never have imagined that he would go on to play in 14 World Series and win 10 championships and earn 3 MVP awards, among others.
Born Lawrence Peter to Italian immigrants in St. Louis, Missouri, Berra dropped out of school after eighth grade. He started playing baseball in the local American Legion teams and was quickly noted for his talent.� However he could never have imagined that he would go on to play in 14 World Series and win 10 championships and earn 3 MVP awards, among others.
Pope makes surprise visit to Little Sisters of the Poor as "sign of support" against Obama mandate
Religious Freedom Message: Pope Makes Surprise Stop at Little Sisters of the Poor | Daily News | NCRegister.com: Pope Francis paid a short visit to the Little Sisters of the Poor community in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday to support them in their court case over the contraception mandate, the Vatican's spokesman revealed.
It was a “short visit that was not in the program,” Father Federico Lombardi, director of the Holy See Press Office, said at an evening press conference during the papal visit to the nation's capital.
“This is a sign, obviously, of support for them” in their court case, he affirmed.
It was a “short visit that was not in the program,” Father Federico Lombardi, director of the Holy See Press Office, said at an evening press conference during the papal visit to the nation's capital.
“This is a sign, obviously, of support for them” in their court case, he affirmed.
A profile of Christina Massimei, the amazing cantor at the canonization Mass
Soprano Christina Massimei of Bel Air to serve as cantor at papal Mass in Washington - Baltimore Sun: Christina Massimei stood silent in the center of the living room, her shoulders squared, her eyes focused on the voice teacher seated at the Steinway grand.
The teacher played the introduction to Mozart's "Alleluia." Massimei opened her mouth. And a sound came out that was half voice-of-the-angels, half TNT explosion, climbing the walls of the modest practice space and all but shaking the windows.
Massimei, an operatic soprano from Bel Air, was rehearsing for the biggest performance of her life: serving as cantor — the lead liturgical singer — for the historic Mass that Pope Francis will celebrate Wednesday afternoon in Washington.
The teacher played the introduction to Mozart's "Alleluia." Massimei opened her mouth. And a sound came out that was half voice-of-the-angels, half TNT explosion, climbing the walls of the modest practice space and all but shaking the windows.
Massimei, an operatic soprano from Bel Air, was rehearsing for the biggest performance of her life: serving as cantor — the lead liturgical singer — for the historic Mass that Pope Francis will celebrate Wednesday afternoon in Washington.
Pope Francis should feel right at "Rome" in Northeast DC
Pope Francis Should Feel Right at “Rome” in Northeast DC |Blogs | NCRegister.comLIEDL: A basilica; a major Catholic university; several religious houses, shrines, and monasteries; and the headquarters of Church bureaucracy.
It sounds like the features of a neighborhood in the Holy City, but it’s actually one in Washington. In fact, the concentration of all things Catholic has earned this area of Northeast DC the affectionate nickname of “Little Rome.”
Pope Francis celebrated Mass earlier today at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, a massive, distinctive-looking church that combines elements of Byzantine and Romanesque architecture. The basilica, which was finished in 1959, is the largest church in America, and includes numerable side chapels depicting Marian apparitions from around the world.
It sounds like the features of a neighborhood in the Holy City, but it’s actually one in Washington. In fact, the concentration of all things Catholic has earned this area of Northeast DC the affectionate nickname of “Little Rome.”
Pope Francis celebrated Mass earlier today at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, a massive, distinctive-looking church that combines elements of Byzantine and Romanesque architecture. The basilica, which was finished in 1959, is the largest church in America, and includes numerable side chapels depicting Marian apparitions from around the world.
Francis 2.0 emerges in America: Pope and Church are a package deal
Francis 2.0 emerges in America: Pope and Church are a package deal | CruxALLEN: From the beginning, there’s been a popular tendency to pit Pope Francis against the institution he leads. He was swiftly styled as a maverick and a reformer, trying to shake up a staid and deeply traditional Church.
There’s certainly some truth to that perception, and early on, Francis benefited from it. The narrative about the papacy shifted from, “Everything you don’t like about the Church is because of the pope” to, “Everything you don’t like is in spite of the pope.”
Yet today, the down side of the “Pope v. Church” storyline is becoming steadily clearer.
There’s certainly some truth to that perception, and early on, Francis benefited from it. The narrative about the papacy shifted from, “Everything you don’t like about the Church is because of the pope” to, “Everything you don’t like is in spite of the pope.”
Yet today, the down side of the “Pope v. Church” storyline is becoming steadily clearer.
Pope Francis canonizes Saint JunÃpero Serra
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Blogtrottr <busybee@blogtrottr.com>
Date: Wednesday, September 23, 2015
Subject: CNA: Pope Francis: Imitate Saint Junipero Serra, be trailblazers for Christ
To: kcknight@gmail.com
Washington D.C., Sep 23, 2015 / 03:42 pm (CNA/EWTN News).- Pope Francis made history Wednesday by performing the first-ever canonization on U.S. soil, of St. Junipero Serra.
St. Serra, a Franciscan missionary from Spain, founded nine Catholic missions in California, most of which would go on to become the centers of major cities in the state.
The trail-blazing life of this priest, Pope Francis said in his homily at the Sept. 23 Mass of Canonization said at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C., should be a call to all Christians to never grow complacent, and to always go out to proclaim the Gospel with joy.
"He was the embodiment of 'a Church which goes forth', a Church which sets out to bring everywhere the reconciling tenderness of God," the Pope said.
Saint Junipero Serra was born in 1713 on the Spanish island of Majorca in the Mediterranean. He left his position as a university professor to become a missionary to the New World, helping to convert to Christianity many of the indigenous community, and teaching them new technologies.
The priest's mission work often took place despite a painful ulcerated leg which is said to have been caused either by cancer or a spider bite soon after his arrival in Mexico. He died in 1784 at Mission San Carlos Borroméo del Carmelo in what is now the state of California. St. John Paul II beatified Father Serra in 1988.
"JunÃpero Serra left his native land and its way of life," Pope Francis reflected. "He was excited about blazing trails, going forth to meet many people, learning and valuing their particular customs and ways of life. He learned how to bring to birth and nurture God's life in the faces of everyone he met; he made them his brothers and sisters."
Although some have raised concerns about St. Junipero Serra's work with Native Americans, Pope Francis joined many others who insist that Serra worked tirelessly to protect the rights and dignity of the people whom he served.
"JunÃpero sought to defend the dignity of the native community, to protect it from those who had mistreated and abused it. Mistreatment and wrongs which today still trouble us, especially because of the hurt which they cause in the lives of many people," Pope Francis said.
The saint also had a motto which inspired his life and work: "Keep moving forward!"
"Something deep within us invites us to rejoice and tells us not to settle for placebos which simply keep us comfortable," the Holy Father said, reflecting on the words of St. Paul.
"At the same time, though, we all know the struggles of everyday life. So much seems to stand in the way of this invitation to rejoice."
"Jesus gives the answer. He said to his disciples then and he says it to us now: Go forth! Proclaim! The joy of the Gospel is something to be experienced, something to be known and lived only through giving it away, through giving ourselves away."
St. Junipero Serra was the kind of person who knew this and lived it on a daily basis, Pope Francis said. He was constantly being shaken out of complacency by embracing the joy of proclaiming the Gospel to all people.
"For him, this was the way to continue experiencing the joy of the Gospel, to keep his heart from growing numb, from being anesthetized. He kept moving forward, because the Lord was waiting," he said.
"He kept going, because his brothers and sisters were waiting. He kept going forward to the end of his life. Today, like him, may we be able to say: Forward! Let's keep moving forward!"
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Pope Francis Canonizes St. JunÃpero Serra: ‘Forward! Let’s Keep Moving Forward!’
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From: Blogtrottr <busybee@blogtrottr.com>
Date: Wednesday, September 23, 2015
Subject: NCREGISTER: Pope Francis Canonizes St. Serra: 'Forward! Let's Keep Moving Forward!'
To: kcknight@gmail.com
AUTHOR=REGISTER STAFF: Rejoice in the Lord always! I say it again, rejoice! These are striking words, words which impact our lives. Paul tells us to rejoice; he practically orders us to rejoice. This command resonates with the desire we all have for a... #kk2churchnews
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"God bless America": Pope Francis visits White House
‘God Bless America!’ | Daily News | NCRegister.comCOATOFARMS: I am deeply grateful for your welcome in the name of all Americans.� As the son of an immigrant family, I am happy to be a guest in this country, which was largely built by such families.� I look forward to these days of encounter and dialogue, in which I hope to listen to, and share, many of the hopes and dreams of the American people.
During my visit I will have the honor of addressing Congress, where I hope, as a brother of this country, to offer words of encouragement to those called to guide the nation’s political future in fidelity to its founding principles.� I will also travel to Philadelphia for the Eighth World Meeting of Families, to celebrate and support the institutions of marriage and the family at this, a critical moment in the history of our civilization.
During my visit I will have the honor of addressing Congress, where I hope, as a brother of this country, to offer words of encouragement to those called to guide the nation’s political future in fidelity to its founding principles.� I will also travel to Philadelphia for the Eighth World Meeting of Families, to celebrate and support the institutions of marriage and the family at this, a critical moment in the history of our civilization.
Pope’s first words in English: Defend religious liberty, marriage and family
Pope’ First Words in English: Defend Religious Liberty, Marriage and Family |Blogs | NCRegister.comSHIMEK: In his first address on US soil, Pope Francis accepted the welcome of President Barack Obama and charted a bold course for the remaining days of his visit.
President and First Lady Obama welcomed Pope Francis during a ceremony on the south lawn of the White House that opened with great fanfare, featuring both the pontifical and the US anthems, a fife and drum parade, and a performance by a DC-based Gospel choir.
After President Obama’s words of welcome, which highlighted religious liberty and global warming issues, Pope Francis took to the podium, adorned with the presidential seal, and spoke his first words of this trip in English.
President and First Lady Obama welcomed Pope Francis during a ceremony on the south lawn of the White House that opened with great fanfare, featuring both the pontifical and the US anthems, a fife and drum parade, and a performance by a DC-based Gospel choir.
After President Obama’s words of welcome, which highlighted religious liberty and global warming issues, Pope Francis took to the podium, adorned with the presidential seal, and spoke his first words of this trip in English.
From Pope Francis, 5 zingers for left and right wingers...
From Pope Francis: Five Zingers for Left and Right WingersLONGENECKER: With Pope Francis coming to America I can’t believe how polarized Conservatives and Liberals are.
Why can’t people be smart enough to realize that both sides want the best and affirm some things that are good and true, and both sides have blind spots where they think they’re right, but they’re actually off beam.
The value of a papal visit is that a pope speaks for the Catholic Church and therefore brings an international, historical and spiritual viewpoint to the discussion. I’ve written here about why a pope is necessary for political discussion.
Why can’t people be smart enough to realize that both sides want the best and affirm some things that are good and true, and both sides have blind spots where they think they’re right, but they’re actually off beam.
The value of a papal visit is that a pope speaks for the Catholic Church and therefore brings an international, historical and spiritual viewpoint to the discussion. I’ve written here about why a pope is necessary for political discussion.
Entrust your worries to Our Lady, Undoer of Knots
Entrust Your Worries to Our Lady, Undoer of Knots |Blogs | NCRegister.comFENELON: Pope Francis, Meg Saligman, and I are kindred spirits.
Not like, hang out together kindred spirits, but like three people from different worlds having something in common.
Our Lady, Undoer of Knots.
Pope Francis became acquainted with the devotion while he was in Germany studying for his doctorate degree. He saw the original image of Our Lady, Undoer of Knots and fell in love with it, so to speak. He credits Our Lady, Undoer of Knots for seeing him through a personal crisis and introduced the devotion and image to Argentina when he returned home.
Not like, hang out together kindred spirits, but like three people from different worlds having something in common.
Our Lady, Undoer of Knots.
Pope Francis became acquainted with the devotion while he was in Germany studying for his doctorate degree. He saw the original image of Our Lady, Undoer of Knots and fell in love with it, so to speak. He credits Our Lady, Undoer of Knots for seeing him through a personal crisis and introduced the devotion and image to Argentina when he returned home.
The story behind the book Pope Francis gave to Fidel Castro...
Pope Francis’ Challenge to Castro | The Christian Review: There’s no precise record of what Pope St. Leo the Great told Attila the Hun outside Rome’s lofty gates, but we do know that the savage Hun—moved by the Pontiff’s heed—had a drastic change of heart and spared a defenseless Rome from his bloodthirsty horde. When a dictator meets a Pope, he must be prepared to face reflection on the state of his soul in addition to the state of his policies. Pope Francis crafted his own variation of Papal diplomacy last Sunday when he presented Fidel Castro a personal gift that Cuban tyrant will likely never forget.
Pope’ first words in English: Defend religious liberty, marriage and family
Pope’ First Words in English: Defend Religious Liberty, Marriage and Family |Blogs | NCRegister.comSHIMEK: In his first address on US soil, Pope Francis accepted the welcome of President Barack Obama and charted a bold course for the remaining days of his visit.
President and First Lady Obama welcomed Pope Francis during a ceremony on the south lawn of the White House that opened with great fanfare, featuring both the pontifical and the US anthems, a fife and drum parade, and a performance by a DC-based Gospel choir.
After President Obama’s words of welcome, which highlighted religious liberty and global warming issues, Pope Francis took to the podium, adorned with the presidential seal, and spoke his first words of this trip in English.
Within moments, it was clear: The pope’s summer of language learning had paid off in dividends. He spoke clearly in a language not his own, identifying himself as the son of an immigrant family and the leader of a religious community committed to building a society of tolerance and inclusion.
President and First Lady Obama welcomed Pope Francis during a ceremony on the south lawn of the White House that opened with great fanfare, featuring both the pontifical and the US anthems, a fife and drum parade, and a performance by a DC-based Gospel choir.
After President Obama’s words of welcome, which highlighted religious liberty and global warming issues, Pope Francis took to the podium, adorned with the presidential seal, and spoke his first words of this trip in English.
Within moments, it was clear: The pope’s summer of language learning had paid off in dividends. He spoke clearly in a language not his own, identifying himself as the son of an immigrant family and the leader of a religious community committed to building a society of tolerance and inclusion.
Essential reading on baseball great Yogi Berra
Essential Reading On Yogi Berra - Digg: Yogi Berra, Yankees catcher and legendary sagacious goof, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 90. Here, we've compiled a selection of stories on one of baseball's most important figures.
The script for the upcoming assembly of the Synod is atrocious
CatholicHerald.co.uk � The synod’s script is atrociousTWOMEY: The Instrumentum Laboris, or working paper, for next month’s synod has all the hallmarks of the product of a committee. It is also tiresomely moralistic in tone. Apart from an occasional nod in the direction of Africa and Asia, the text mostly reflects the cultural and social situation of the Church in the Western world. The document is, at best, theologically thin.
Washington Post lands low blow against Chaput with 'omniscient anonymous' tactic
Washington Post feature sticks Chaput inside an 'omniscient anonymous' voice box — GetReligionMATTINGLY: When it comes to biblical images of good and evil, you start off with God, as opposed to Satan, and then you have Christ, as opposed to the mysterious end-times tyrant called the Antichrist.
Now with that in mind, it's safe to say that in current news speak, Pope Francis is pretty much the top of the heap when it comes to good-guy status. It really doesn't matter that the edited Francis who appears in most mainstream news coverage ("Who am I to judge?") is not quite the same pope who appears in the full texts of his homilies and writings ("It is not 'progressive' to try to resolve problems by eliminating a human life").
Now with that in mind, it's safe to say that in current news speak, Pope Francis is pretty much the top of the heap when it comes to good-guy status. It really doesn't matter that the edited Francis who appears in most mainstream news coverage ("Who am I to judge?") is not quite the same pope who appears in the full texts of his homilies and writings ("It is not 'progressive' to try to resolve problems by eliminating a human life").
Tuesday, September 22, 2015
Lessons from the Rough Rider for today's political ruffians
Lessons from the Rough Rider for Today's Political Ruffians | George Weigel | First ThingsWEIGEL: Sitting at a writing-desk in the White House on December 11, 1905, President Theodore Roosevelt was an unhappy camper. In previous letters, he had addressed his correspondent as “Dear Maria.” Now, it was “Mrs. Storer” who would be on the receiving end of the presidential wrath.
Maria Longworth Storer was a busybody—and a highly placed one at that. Her husband, Bellamy Storer, was close to President William McKinley, and had helped get TR appointed assistant secretary of the Navy. Bellamy Storer then served McKinley as U.S. minister to Belgium and Spain; Roosevelt, succeeding McKinley after the latter’s assassination, appointed Mr. Storer U.S. minister to Austria-Hungary.
Maria Longworth Storer was a busybody—and a highly placed one at that. Her husband, Bellamy Storer, was close to President William McKinley, and had helped get TR appointed assistant secretary of the Navy. Bellamy Storer then served McKinley as U.S. minister to Belgium and Spain; Roosevelt, succeeding McKinley after the latter’s assassination, appointed Mr. Storer U.S. minister to Austria-Hungary.
This week, I beg you, do yourself a favor...
Pope Francis Now On US SoilETIENNE: My dear friends, as this day draws to a close, I sit in a hotel room in Crystal City, (Arlington, VA) just across the street from the apartment complex I lived in when I was an assistant (to the master of all papal visit coordinators, now Bishop Robert N. Lynch of St. Petersburg, Florida) national coordinator for the 1987 Papal Visit of Pope John Paul II.� I cannot tell you the level of excitement and enthusiasm that have taken hold of this community (and this bishop) once again!
Figuring out Francis: Bishop says Pope can be 'difficult'
Figuring out Francis: Bishop says Pope can be 'difficult': More than a million people from all over the world are expected to attend Pope Francis’ historic outdoor Mass Sept. 27 in Philadelphia. But the leader of the Diocese of Trenton will not be among them.
Bishop David M. O’Connell, whose diocese sits just across the Delaware River from the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, is tentatively scheduled to do on-air commentary for the local CBS affiliate, CBS 3, whose studio is located a mile away from where the pope will be.
Nor is he on the guest list for the pope’s visit to New York City earlier in the week. The events there include a multi-religious prayer service Friday at ground zero, where dozens of people from the Diocese of Trenton perished at the hands of Islamic terrorists in 2001.
Bishop David M. O’Connell, whose diocese sits just across the Delaware River from the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, is tentatively scheduled to do on-air commentary for the local CBS affiliate, CBS 3, whose studio is located a mile away from where the pope will be.
Nor is he on the guest list for the pope’s visit to New York City earlier in the week. The events there include a multi-religious prayer service Friday at ground zero, where dozens of people from the Diocese of Trenton perished at the hands of Islamic terrorists in 2001.
Joe Walsh and the fountain of grace
Fountain of Grace | God-Haunted LunaticBECKER: I have a short list of songs I’d love to play on the drums. There’s “Good Times Roll” by the Cars, and “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” by the Stones. “Take the Money and Run” by the Steve Miller Band makes the cut as well, but I don’t think I could ever duplicate drummer Gary Mallaber’s syncopated hi-hat magic, even back in my high school heyday.
Then there’s Joe Walsh’s “Rocky Mountain Way,” his slow-churning paean to life in Colorado. For one thing, it’s straight-on rock, but with a bluesy tinge, giving it a measured pace – more my speed in other words. Plus, it came out when I was a young transplant to Boulder from New Jersey, so I readily identified with Walsh’s love of the mile-high state. “Couldn’t get much higher,” he sings. “The Rocky Mountain way is better than the way we had.” No offense to Jersey, but it’s hard to beat living at the foot of snowcapped peaks.
Then there’s Joe Walsh’s “Rocky Mountain Way,” his slow-churning paean to life in Colorado. For one thing, it’s straight-on rock, but with a bluesy tinge, giving it a measured pace – more my speed in other words. Plus, it came out when I was a young transplant to Boulder from New Jersey, so I readily identified with Walsh’s love of the mile-high state. “Couldn’t get much higher,” he sings. “The Rocky Mountain way is better than the way we had.” No offense to Jersey, but it’s hard to beat living at the foot of snowcapped peaks.
Entrust all your worries to Our Lady, Undoer of Knots
Entrust Your Worries to Our Lady, Undoer of Knots |Blogs | NCRegister.comFENELON: Pope Francis, Meg Saligman, and I are kindred spirits.
Not like, hang out together kindred spirits, but like three people from different worlds having something in common.
Our Lady, Undoer of Knots.
Pope Francis became acquainted with the devotion while he was in Germany studying for his doctorate degree. He saw the original image of Our Lady, Undoer of Knots and fell in love with it, so to speak. He credits Our Lady, Undoer of Knots for seeing him through a personal crisis and introduced the devotion and image to Argentina when he returned home.
Not like, hang out together kindred spirits, but like three people from different worlds having something in common.
Our Lady, Undoer of Knots.
Pope Francis became acquainted with the devotion while he was in Germany studying for his doctorate degree. He saw the original image of Our Lady, Undoer of Knots and fell in love with it, so to speak. He credits Our Lady, Undoer of Knots for seeing him through a personal crisis and introduced the devotion and image to Argentina when he returned home.
Washington Post: The White House is more afraid of offending China’s president than the pope
The White House is more afraid of offending China’s president than the pope - The Washington Post: THE VATICAN has raised objections to a few of the guests invited to the White House arrival ceremony next week for Pope Francis. The Wall Street Journal reported that the guests include transgender activists, the first openly gay Episcopal bishop and a nun who criticizes church policies on abortion and euthanasia. The Vatican worries that photos taken with the pope might be used to suggest his endorsement of activities he in fact disapproves of.
How to read the Pope as he visits the United States of America
When Does Pope Francis Arrive in the United States, Washington, D.C., New York, and Philadelphia? - The Atlantic: With Francis preparing to visit the United States for the first time—not just in his papacy, but in his life—the media is preparing for much pope’ing on controversial topics like poverty, climate change, marriage, and abortion. Americans are often tempted to read Francis as a “progressive” pope who has tossed out the conservative playbook of Church leaders past. After all, he’s thrown down scathing critiques of global capitalism, pushed for radical reform on climate change, and shifted the Church’s tone on issues like homosexuality, divorce, and abortion. So as pundits map his views, many conclude that he’s pushing the church into uncharted territory. But as a 15th-century Vatican cartographer might have put it: hic sunt dracones.
Habemus Papam! Pope Francis arrives in the U.S.
Whispers in the Loggia: Habemus PapamPALMO: With President Obama, Vice President Joe Biden and their wives slated to be on the tarmac to greet the Pope – a rare honor for an arriving leader – no public events are scheduled following Francis' landing, with Papa Bergoglio set to be taken straight to the Nunciature on Massachusetts Avenue in a Fiat sedan.
Once the traveling press pool arrives at the media hotel in the capital, a briefing will be held by the Vatican spokesman Fr Federico Lombardi, who hinted last week that the flight from Cuba could see an initial "conversation" between the Pope and in-flight press crew.
Once the traveling press pool arrives at the media hotel in the capital, a briefing will be held by the Vatican spokesman Fr Federico Lombardi, who hinted last week that the flight from Cuba could see an initial "conversation" between the Pope and in-flight press crew.
ISIS magazine Dabiq singles out Pope Francis ahead of U.S. trip
ISIS Magazine Dabiq Singled Out Pope Francis Ahead of U.S. Trip - NBC News: Security officials gearing up for Pope Francis' visit to America have stressed that there is no specific, credible threat against the pontiff — but for the second time in two years an ISIS propaganda magazine has singled him out for scorn.
Dabiq is an English-language magazine aimed at U.S., British and Australian Muslims in the vein of Inspire, a magazine for jihadists put out by al Qaeda.
Dabiq is an English-language magazine aimed at U.S., British and Australian Muslims in the vein of Inspire, a magazine for jihadists put out by al Qaeda.
Pope Pius IX's secret visit to 'America' in 1849
Pope Pius IX's Secret Vist to America in 1849 - Taylor MarshallMARSHALL: I’ve only had the opportunity to visit the White House once and after lunch I was shown a portrait of a large ship flying the American and Papal flags. It depicts the first papal visit to the territory of the United States in the person of Pope Pius IX in 1849.
The American USS Constitution (known affectionally as “Old Ironsides”) received onboard King Ferdinand II and Pope Pius IX on Aug 1 1849 giving them a 21-gun salute. By stepping on board an American vessel, the Holy Father officially entered American territory. A commissioned military ship has the same legal status as a piece of political soil. So while Pius IX did not actually enter the borders of the United States, he did technically step foot onto American territory.
The American USS Constitution (known affectionally as “Old Ironsides”) received onboard King Ferdinand II and Pope Pius IX on Aug 1 1849 giving them a 21-gun salute. By stepping on board an American vessel, the Holy Father officially entered American territory. A commissioned military ship has the same legal status as a piece of political soil. So while Pius IX did not actually enter the borders of the United States, he did technically step foot onto American territory.
Pope asks Cubans to imitate Mary's 'revolution of tenderness'
Pope asks Cubans to imitate Mary's 'revolution of tenderness' :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): During Mass on Tuesday Pope Francis praised the rich devotion to Our Lady of Charity seeded in the hearts of Cubans, and told them to be like her in making haste to meet the needs of others in tenderness and charity.
“Generation after generation, day after day, we are asked to renew our faith. We are asked to live the revolution of tenderness as Mary, our Mother of Charity, did,” the Pope said Sept. 22.
“Our revolution comes about through tenderness, through the joy which always becomes closeness and compassion, and leads us to get involved in, and to serve, the life of others.”
“Generation after generation, day after day, we are asked to renew our faith. We are asked to live the revolution of tenderness as Mary, our Mother of Charity, did,” the Pope said Sept. 22.
“Our revolution comes about through tenderness, through the joy which always becomes closeness and compassion, and leads us to get involved in, and to serve, the life of others.”
5 ways to welcome Pope Francis to the United States
St. Josemaria Institute - Welcome to the USA, Pope Francis!: Whether you will be traveling to see Pope Francis during his visit to DC, New York and Philadelphia, or if you will be accompanying him spiritually from your home, following are five ways to welcome him with joyful and peaceful hearts...
Monday, September 21, 2015
Peter Steinfels and Mark Regnerus tackle contraception debate
Peter Steinfels and Mark Regnerus Tackle Contraception Debate |Blogs | NCRegister.comDESMOND: Like a bitter child nursing an old grievance against a parent well into adulthood, progressive Catholics cling to the belief that Pope Paul VI's 1968 encyclical Humanae Vitae damaged the moral credibility of the Church. Indeed, they blame the controversial papal letter for the faithful's subsequent lack of support for other teachings that deal with abortion, same-sex relationships and premarital sex.
"Nothing has divided the church more than its prohibition against contraception, even among married couples," writes Peter Steinfels in a Sept. 11 op-ed in the Washington Post.
The author of A People Adrift: The Crisis of the Roman Catholic Church in America, Steinfels is the former religion correspondent for The New York Times and previously served as editor of Commonweal. His op-ed in the Post rehashes all the events and discussions leading up to Pope Paul VI's fateful decision to affirm the Church's condemnation of contraception. Now he wants Pope Francis to address the topic "honestly" at the upcoming Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops.
"Nothing has divided the church more than its prohibition against contraception, even among married couples," writes Peter Steinfels in a Sept. 11 op-ed in the Washington Post.
The author of A People Adrift: The Crisis of the Roman Catholic Church in America, Steinfels is the former religion correspondent for The New York Times and previously served as editor of Commonweal. His op-ed in the Post rehashes all the events and discussions leading up to Pope Paul VI's fateful decision to affirm the Church's condemnation of contraception. Now he wants Pope Francis to address the topic "honestly" at the upcoming Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops.
Here's what Pope Francis is likely to tell the U.S. Congress
Here's what Pope Francis is likely to tell the US Congress :: Catholic News Agency (CNA)GAGLIARDUCCI: On Thursday Pope Francis will become the first Bishop of Rome to address a joint session of the US Senate and House of Representatives. During his speech he will tackle the misinterpretation of his words on economics and politics.
That expectation is according to a source who saw the first drafts of the speech, and who spoke with CNA Sept. 18.
“Pope Francis will likely use the speech to Congress to clarify his position on economics and politics, thus indirectly responding to the misinterpretation of his words,” the source maintained.
That expectation is according to a source who saw the first drafts of the speech, and who spoke with CNA Sept. 18.
“Pope Francis will likely use the speech to Congress to clarify his position on economics and politics, thus indirectly responding to the misinterpretation of his words,” the source maintained.
The lay of the land from the World Meeting of Families
World Meeting of Families - The Lay of the Land |Blogs | NCRegister.comFENELON: Joyful.
That’s what I sent back when my editor asked me to give him the lay of the land on my first day of World Meeting of Families.
I arrived in Philadelphia about midday, and after settling into my hotel room, getting basic information about making my way around Philly and working through some technical glitches with the hotel Internet, I headed off to the Pennsylvania Convention Center downtown.
Helpful.
That’s the second word I’d use to describe the lay of the land here. All you need do is mention “World Meeting of Families,,” and folks will jump to your assistance. Perhaps this is the way Philadelphia always is – it is the “City of Brotherly Love” – but I think that World Meeting of Families gives it another dimension.
That’s what I sent back when my editor asked me to give him the lay of the land on my first day of World Meeting of Families.
I arrived in Philadelphia about midday, and after settling into my hotel room, getting basic information about making my way around Philly and working through some technical glitches with the hotel Internet, I headed off to the Pennsylvania Convention Center downtown.
Helpful.
That’s the second word I’d use to describe the lay of the land here. All you need do is mention “World Meeting of Families,,” and folks will jump to your assistance. Perhaps this is the way Philadelphia always is – it is the “City of Brotherly Love” – but I think that World Meeting of Families gives it another dimension.
Pope Francis is coming to America. What will he think?
NCRegister | Pope Francis Is Coming to America: What Will He Think?LONGENECKER: Pope Francis is about to visit the United States for the first time. What will make the greatest impact on his short visit? From what I know about Pope Francis, I think he will be unimpressed by New York’s wealth and glamour and the power of Washington. Francis will focus on the unborn, the vulnerable, the immigrants and the marginalized in our society. One wonders: What will he make of his first face-to-face encounter with the American Catholic Church?
I was born and raised in the U.S., but I was never an American Catholic. Brought up in an evangelical-Protestant, fundamentalist home, I went to England after college and became an Anglican priest. Eventually, we were received into full communion with the Catholic Church, but remained in England for the next 10 years.
I was born and raised in the U.S., but I was never an American Catholic. Brought up in an evangelical-Protestant, fundamentalist home, I went to England after college and became an Anglican priest. Eventually, we were received into full communion with the Catholic Church, but remained in England for the next 10 years.
Pope’s visit will produce largest security operation in U.S. history
Pope’s visit will produce largest security operation in U.S. history - The Washington Post: Federal authorities are mobilizing one of the largest security operations in U.S. history ahead of Pope Francis’s arrival Tuesday, an effort that is straining law enforcement resources in Washington, New York and Philadelphia.
The sky is falling! End Time prophets warn end is near (again)
The Sky Is Falling! End Time Prophets Warn End Is Near (Again) |Blogs | NCRegister.comSCHIFFER: Could we be living in the Last Days? Some groups—citing evidence gleaned from the Hebrew calendar, a lunar eclipse, prophecy, and even the stock market—predict that events leading to the end of the world will commence on September 28.
On that night, a lunar eclipse will darken the moon to a deep red, what is sometimes called a “blood moon.” This particular eclipse is believed by some to mark the beginning of the end. Those who anticipate the apocalypse point to a prophecy which says that leading up to the end of the world and the Second Coming of Christ, there will be a series of four lunar eclipses (called a “tetrad”), coinciding with Jewish holy days. Tetrads, a series of four lunar eclipses within just two years, are uncommon but not rare.
On that night, a lunar eclipse will darken the moon to a deep red, what is sometimes called a “blood moon.” This particular eclipse is believed by some to mark the beginning of the end. Those who anticipate the apocalypse point to a prophecy which says that leading up to the end of the world and the Second Coming of Christ, there will be a series of four lunar eclipses (called a “tetrad”), coinciding with Jewish holy days. Tetrads, a series of four lunar eclipses within just two years, are uncommon but not rare.
Is the Benedict Option really what God wants of us?
Opting Out of the Benedict Option? - The Imaginative Conservative: The Benedict Option is a new idea blowing around Catholic circles, becoming a cyclone in the wake of Obergefell. Undergirding it seems to be the growing conviction among Catholics that we have lost influence in the culture to the extent that we are now facing a cultural tsunami, to use yet another meteorological image, that threatens to drown us all. Driving it is the memory, long distant, of other Catholics separated from us by 1500 years who had the same conviction (hard to miss German barbarians in the streets), and who withdrew themselves, not primarily to abandon a dying civilization, but to replant the seed in safe soil, so that one day it could grow again into the mustard tree, sheltering many creatures in its branches.
Kicking off the big week with #PapalGoofs
Pope Francis press watch: @JamesMartinSJ kicks off the week with #PapalGoofs — GetReligionMATTINGLY: If you are interested in (a) the Jesuits, (b) old-school Catholic liberalism, (c) humor, (d) religion news or (e) all of the above, then you really need to be following Father James Martin on Twitter – @JamesMartinSJ. You are really going to want to jump on board this week to get his take on the @Pontifex visit to America's elite media corridor between Washington, D.C., and New York City.
Father Martin is well known for his popular books (such as "Between Heaven and Mirth" and "Jesus: A Pilgrimage"), for his analysis work at America magazine and as the official chaplain of the old "Colbert Report" on Comedy Central. He is also, as you would expect, a skilled observer of religion-beat work in the American press.
Father Martin is well known for his popular books (such as "Between Heaven and Mirth" and "Jesus: A Pilgrimage"), for his analysis work at America magazine and as the official chaplain of the old "Colbert Report" on Comedy Central. He is also, as you would expect, a skilled observer of religion-beat work in the American press.
27 fascinating photos of pre-Vatican II Catholicism
27 Fascinating Photos of Pre-Vatican II Catholicism | ChurchPOP: Catholicism certainly looks a lot different today than it did a few decades ago.
Whether you are old enough to remember pre-Vatican II Catholicism or not, looking back through the Church’s old “family” pictures can still be a lot of fun!
You can click on any image to view it full size.
Enjoy!
Whether you are old enough to remember pre-Vatican II Catholicism or not, looking back through the Church’s old “family” pictures can still be a lot of fun!
You can click on any image to view it full size.
Enjoy!
How to be sane in a world gone insane
GKC’s The Napoleon of Notting Hill: How to Be a Catholic Lunatic - Crisis MagazineFITZPATRICK: America stands in need of a new revolution to free itself from the tyranny of bureaucracy and the ensuing slavery of boredom. Such freedom is difficult to depict even in the land of the free, because the United States is losing its identity as the home of the brave. Cowardice, termed “tolerance,” is the marching order of the day and Americans are knuckling under, rank and file, to the dull detriment of the times. Madness is the result—and perhaps a solution. The Napoleon of Notting Hill by G. K. Chesterton is a novel that calls for a novel madness: the madness to be sane in a world gone insane.
For first time ever, United Nations to raise flag of Holy See on September 25
United Nations to Raise Holy See Flag on September 25 Vatican Radio: A communiqué released today by the United Nations says the Holy See flag will fly at the UN building in New York when Pope Francis arrives there on Friday.
It says that after consultations with the Holy See, the United Nations will raise the flag of the Holy See for the first time on the morning of September 25, so that it will be flying when Pope Francis arrives at the UN Headquarters.�
It says that after consultations with the Holy See, the United Nations will raise the flag of the Holy See for the first time on the morning of September 25, so that it will be flying when Pope Francis arrives at the UN Headquarters.�
Diminishing here, expanding there: How the Catholic World is changing
How the Catholic World Is Changing - WSJ.com: Since Vatican II, Catholicism has experienced a dramatic shift in allegiance by region. Here is a global look at the demographics of the faith since 1965.
The generation gap among Catholic Hispanics is widening
Generation Gap Among Catholic Hispanics - WSJ: Jeffrey Nigoche, a 23-year-old born in the U.S. to Mexican immigrants, is typical of many young Hispanic Catholics. His mother took him to Spanish Mass as a child, but during his teen years, he lost interest in religion.
Then, a few years ago, he began attending the Catholic Charismatic Center in Houston, where Mass boasts a festive atmosphere with live music.
He recently switched to Mass in English, his dominant language outside of church, though like many second-generation immigrants, he is in transition: “I still struggle a little with the prayers in English,” he said.
Then, a few years ago, he began attending the Catholic Charismatic Center in Houston, where Mass boasts a festive atmosphere with live music.
He recently switched to Mass in English, his dominant language outside of church, though like many second-generation immigrants, he is in transition: “I still struggle a little with the prayers in English,” he said.
Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre, the Patroness of Cuba
“Mondays with Mary” – Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre, the Patroness of Cuba | TOM PERNAPERNA: With the Apostolic Journey of Pope Francis to Cuba over the last couple of days, I thought I would reflect on part of Pope St. John Paul II’s Apostolic Journey that he made to Cuba in January 1998 for today’s “Mondays with Mary.” Before sharing you with the words of John Paul II in regards to Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre, the official patroness of Cuba, let’s first understand why she is the patroness.
Sometime in the year 1608, Rodrigo and Juan de Hoyos, two brothers, as well as a young slave by the name of Juan Moreno, left Santiago de Prado (now modern day El Cobre) in a small boat to seek out salt in order that the copper miners might preserve their meat. As they traveled across the Bay of Nipe, they had to put in to the shore for a strong storm had come upon them. As they awoke the next morning, they noticed a small white bundle floating across the bay towards them. After grabbing the bundle and opening it, they found out that the bundle was a statue of Our Lady, which was attached to a board. It was totally dry and had an inscription that read – I am the Virgin of Charity. Immediately, a shrine was built near the site and it soon became a destination for pilgrimages to Our Lady.
Sometime in the year 1608, Rodrigo and Juan de Hoyos, two brothers, as well as a young slave by the name of Juan Moreno, left Santiago de Prado (now modern day El Cobre) in a small boat to seek out salt in order that the copper miners might preserve their meat. As they traveled across the Bay of Nipe, they had to put in to the shore for a strong storm had come upon them. As they awoke the next morning, they noticed a small white bundle floating across the bay towards them. After grabbing the bundle and opening it, they found out that the bundle was a statue of Our Lady, which was attached to a board. It was totally dry and had an inscription that read – I am the Virgin of Charity. Immediately, a shrine was built near the site and it soon became a destination for pilgrimages to Our Lady.
Gossip, innocent though it may seem, accomplishes the opposite of Christ's will for us...
C.S. Lewis, Narnia, and the Scourge of Gossip | Mountain CatholicSEWELL: If we believe that God is real, and that He loves us, then we know that each of us is willed into existence with a divinely given purpose. This is exactly what C.S. Lewis referred to in his battle sequence. God is the General, the Organizing Force. We are the soldiers, each unique in our own right, each with a different responsibility, each with the capacity to accomplish it. Our “battle plan” is, in essence, our vocation. It’s that particular calling each of us has, but also more generally the duty of striving for friendship with God: happiness in this life and heaven in the next.
As Francis arrives in the U.S., Benedict’s converts share their feelings on the "Surprise Pope"
As Francis Arrives in U.S., Benedict’s Converts Share Their Feelings on the “Surprise Pope” | Aleteia.orgANDERSON: When I joined the Catholic Church in 2006, Benedict XVI was Pope. In some circles (especially the secular U.S. media), he had a reputation as a cold fish, an unfeeling intellectual who cared more for tradition and the law than for actual human beings. To me, he seemed to be a rock of sanity and reason in the midst of chaos – a shelter against the storms of our highly emotional, passion-driven culture. Without Pope Benedict’s wise leadership, I doubt I would have become Catholic at all.
Centuries before the Incarnation, the Prophet Daniel recorded an extraordinary vision of Christ...
The Prophet Daniel’s Fantastic Vision of ChristBEALE: The winds of heaven tossed and turned the vast ocean. The deep was teaming with monsters, terrible to behold.
One by one they emerged from the storm-churned waters. The first was a lion, outfitted with eagle wings. Those wings were shorn and the lion stood upright.
Then came the second. This one looked like a bear with three tusks wedged in its mouth. More came. One was a four-headed leopard that could fly. The fourth beast was too terrifying to even describe in whole. It had iron teeth, ten horns, and human eyes.
So begins the extraordinary nighttime vision in Daniel 7.
One by one they emerged from the storm-churned waters. The first was a lion, outfitted with eagle wings. Those wings were shorn and the lion stood upright.
Then came the second. This one looked like a bear with three tusks wedged in its mouth. More came. One was a four-headed leopard that could fly. The fourth beast was too terrifying to even describe in whole. It had iron teeth, ten horns, and human eyes.
So begins the extraordinary nighttime vision in Daniel 7.
How can we help persecuted Christians?
Pope Francis -- Words of Hope | National Review OnlineLOPEZ: Anyone who is part of the Body of Christ has a responsibility for others.
A few days ago, I was on a panel at the In Defense of Christians National Leadership Convention on Capitol Hill discussing “Building Bridges between Eastern and Western Christianity.” The first question was about obstacles that get in the way of such bridges, leaving persecuted Christians out in the cold, with their very existence in the birthplace of Christianity in jeopardy.
Reflecting on this question later, I started thinking about Donald Trump (it must have been the cable news in the background). Donald Trump is the biggest obstacle.�
A few days ago, I was on a panel at the In Defense of Christians National Leadership Convention on Capitol Hill discussing “Building Bridges between Eastern and Western Christianity.” The first question was about obstacles that get in the way of such bridges, leaving persecuted Christians out in the cold, with their very existence in the birthplace of Christianity in jeopardy.
Reflecting on this question later, I started thinking about Donald Trump (it must have been the cable news in the background). Donald Trump is the biggest obstacle.�
Sunday, September 20, 2015
A hell of an argument
A Hell of an Argument |Blogs | NCRegister.comSHEA: One nice thing about being Catholic is that when a Dimestore Origenist (who is pretty certain nobody’s going to Hell) goes up against Dimestore Calvins (who are certain they know just exactly who is in Hell), you don't have to feel as though TIME magazine is arbitrating a dispute that never ever ever occurred to Christians before.
Just because some Christian has, by his self-supposed two cent papal authority, taken it upon himself to declare that Gandhi is in Hell, that does not anoint another Christian with the two cent self-supposed papal authority to declare that Hell is, for all intents and purposes, impossible.
Just because some Christian has, by his self-supposed two cent papal authority, taken it upon himself to declare that Gandhi is in Hell, that does not anoint another Christian with the two cent self-supposed papal authority to declare that Hell is, for all intents and purposes, impossible.
Pope Francis and the two faces of anti-Catholicism
Pope Francis and Two Faces of Anti-Catholicism | Daily News | NCRegister.comLONGENECKER: Pope Francis’ visit to Cuba and the United States puts the papacy in the middle of two historically anti-Catholic cultures. The communist regime in Cuba followed the atheist ideology of global communism and Catholics were persecuted. Despite the size and significance of the Catholic Church in America it should also be remembered that for most of her history America has also been hostile to the Catholic faith.
A priest's hopes for the Pope's visit to America
The Catholic ThingMCCLOSKEY: Speaking as a Catholic priest in America, I’m very much looking forward to Pope Francis’s visit. He comes with a remarkable record of both pastoral sensitivity and great personal charm. But our Church in America has many pressing needs. So here are a few things that I hope the Holy Father will accomplish during his visit.
First, I hope Pope Francis will be astonished and pleased to find a warm welcome from faithful Catholics who support the culture of life and the traditional teachings of the Church against the very visible culture of death purveyed by many in our country.
I also hope that he will speak strongly regarding religious liberty, which is at this moment in great peril – from the government generally and the Obama Administration more particularly.
First, I hope Pope Francis will be astonished and pleased to find a warm welcome from faithful Catholics who support the culture of life and the traditional teachings of the Church against the very visible culture of death purveyed by many in our country.
I also hope that he will speak strongly regarding religious liberty, which is at this moment in great peril – from the government generally and the Obama Administration more particularly.
10 reasons why the Pope is important for politics
Ten Reasons Why The Pope is Important for PoliticsLONGENECKER: Too many Americans think the separation of church and state means religion should be kept out of public life.
Pastors, popes and priests should keep their mouth shut except on Sundays. In their own church. With their own people.
If they speak up in the public square they are told to keep quiet and not “jam their religion down the throat of everyone else.
This silencing of the voice of virtue and a kind of virtual shout down of the prophet in the midst is nothing new.
Pastors, popes and priests should keep their mouth shut except on Sundays. In their own church. With their own people.
If they speak up in the public square they are told to keep quiet and not “jam their religion down the throat of everyone else.
This silencing of the voice of virtue and a kind of virtual shout down of the prophet in the midst is nothing new.
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