Silence is not much evidence of anything, so why suggest otherwise? | In the Light of the LawEDPETERS: The following are not thoughts on Pope Francis but rather about a recent report by John Allen on Pope Francis.
Allen, associate editor of the on-line news site Crux, recently argued that “Francis pioneers a merciful way to oppose abortion, gay marriage”. Setting aside questions as to what the ubiquitous and apparently infinitely malleable adjective “merciful” means here, I take from his headline Allen’s claim that Francis recently did or said some things to “pioneer” new ways to oppose abortion and so-called gay marriage. That claim gets my attention, naturally, but should it not be proven by what Allen includes in his article? Allen offers four points.
Sunday, January 31, 2016
Pope's Sunday Angelus: “It's not us, but God who takes the first step”
Pope Francis: It's not us, but God who takes the first step :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): On Sunday Pope Francis said that it’s the weak and vulnerable who are most valuable in God’s eyes, and stressed that it’s always him who takes the initiative in meeting us where we are.
“God meets the men and women of every time and place in the concrete situation in which they find themselves. He also comes to encounter us,” the Pope said Jan. 31, adding that “it's always he who makes the first step.”
“God meets the men and women of every time and place in the concrete situation in which they find themselves. He also comes to encounter us,” the Pope said Jan. 31, adding that “it's always he who makes the first step.”
Saturday, January 30, 2016
How a 29-year-old G.K. Chesterton flipped 4 arguments against Christianity upside-down
How a 29-Year-Old G. K. Chesterton Flipped 4 Arguments Against Christianity Upside-Down | TGC: Many of the sharpest and most influential thinkers in England during the first years of the 20th century were outspoken in their skepticism toward the central claims of Christianity. Men such as Robert Blatchford (1851-1943) leveled a number of forceful arguments against Christian doctrine, relying on historical, scientific, and sociological research to bolster their perspectives.
Into this arena of prominent, published writers and thinkers marched 29-year-old G. K. Chesterton.
Into this arena of prominent, published writers and thinkers marched 29-year-old G. K. Chesterton.
The revival of America's hand-painted sign industry is a nice thing to see...
The Revival of America's Hand-Painted-Sign Industry - The Atlantic: Even in an age of emoji, when people revel in communicating online using a shared set of colorful icons, it makes sense that there are still those who are able to eke out a living painting signs for businesses by hand. What is more surprising is that many people do—all over the country, from Utah to New York. Indeed, an art form that seemed moribund as big-box stores and chain restaurants multiplied is relevant again, and lucrative. And although much has changed about the enterprise itself, the essentials remain largely the same.
“Today we are his family”: Teen volunteers mourn those who died alone
'Today We Are His Family': Teen Volunteers Mourn Those Who Died Alone : NPR: On the drive to Fairview Cemetery in the Boston neighborhood of Hyde Park, six seniors from Roxbury Latin boys' school sit in silent reflection. Mike Pojman, the school's assistant headmaster and senior adviser, says the trip is a massive contrast to the rest of their school day, and to their lives as a whole right now.
AROUND THE NATION
LA's Unclaimed Dead Receive Prayers, And A Final Resting Place
AROUND THE NATION
Cash-Strapped Cities Struggle To Bury Their Unclaimed Dead
Today the teens have volunteered to be pallbearers for a man who died alone in September, and for whom no next of kin was found. He's being buried in a grave with no tombstone, in a city cemetery.
AROUND THE NATION
LA's Unclaimed Dead Receive Prayers, And A Final Resting Place
AROUND THE NATION
Cash-Strapped Cities Struggle To Bury Their Unclaimed Dead
Today the teens have volunteered to be pallbearers for a man who died alone in September, and for whom no next of kin was found. He's being buried in a grave with no tombstone, in a city cemetery.
Friday, January 29, 2016
Pope Francis likely to visit Auschwitz during World Youth Day
Pope Francis likely to visit Auschwitz during World Youth Day :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): During his July visit to Poland for World Youth Day, it’s probable that Pope Francis will follow in the steps of his two immediate predecessors by traveling to the Nazi death camp Auschwitz, the Vatican spokesman has said.
Fr. Federico Lombardi, SJ, told journalists at the Jan. 27 presentation of the book “We were Jews” by 90-year-old Holocaust survivor Alberto Mieli that a summer visit to Auschwitz for the Pope is “highly probable.”
Fr. Federico Lombardi, SJ, told journalists at the Jan. 27 presentation of the book “We were Jews” by 90-year-old Holocaust survivor Alberto Mieli that a summer visit to Auschwitz for the Pope is “highly probable.”
We’re raising seven kids and keeping our sanity (mostly)
RAISING SEVEN KIDS, AND KEEPING OUR SANITY (MOSTLY) | Marriage MissionariesDALTON: Five years ago, our oldest daughter, then 17 years old, said, “How do you know that how you guys are parenting is the right way? How do you know that the way you parent is better than _____ family or _____ family?”
“Well,” we explained to her, “we don’t know. We will let you know in about 15 years after some of you are grown and on your own, how we did parenting. None of you came with instruction manuals.”
Married almost 25 years now, and parents for 22, with 7 children, ages 22 to 5, we have, however, come to discover some important “parenting tips” if you want to call them. We would like to focus on three
“Well,” we explained to her, “we don’t know. We will let you know in about 15 years after some of you are grown and on your own, how we did parenting. None of you came with instruction manuals.”
Married almost 25 years now, and parents for 22, with 7 children, ages 22 to 5, we have, however, come to discover some important “parenting tips” if you want to call them. We would like to focus on three
How God stopped actress Rebecca Ryan ("The Tudors", "Fair City") from jumping off a bridge (jump to 4:00 mark)
How faith saved my life - Rebecca Ryan - iCatholic.ie: Rebecca Ryan (who appeared in the The Tudors and Fair City) shares her amazing story of how faith helped her overcome a near suicidal episode in her life.
The great St. Francis de Sales: A profile in courage
St. Francis de Sales: A Profile in Courage: St. Francis de Sales, Doctor of the Church, was one of the greatest evangelists and most powerful confessors during the Counter-Reformation. His writings on Catholic spirituality still inspire the faithful today and his words still resonate across the centuries. Yet there was a time when Francis was entirely incapacitated by doubt and fear.
When Francis de Sales was a young man at college in Paris, he began to hear discussions and debates on predestination and the nature of salvation. This was during the late 16th century when Calvinism was devouring large parts of Western Christendom. Young Francis was swayed by some of the harsher interpretations of predestination and began to doubt his salvation. Convinced he was one of the damned, Francis began to feel terrible anguish. He fell into a deep depression and was even bedridden for a time.
When Francis de Sales was a young man at college in Paris, he began to hear discussions and debates on predestination and the nature of salvation. This was during the late 16th century when Calvinism was devouring large parts of Western Christendom. Young Francis was swayed by some of the harsher interpretations of predestination and began to doubt his salvation. Convinced he was one of the damned, Francis began to feel terrible anguish. He fell into a deep depression and was even bedridden for a time.
Zika, abortion, and contraceptive imperialism
Zika, abortion, and contraceptive imperialism – Mama Needs CoffeeUEBBING: You knew I was going to write about this, right?
I can’t help myself. My newsfeed is filling up with blustering outrage and hand wringing over the Zika virus – a heinous incurable disease with dire consequences for the most defenseless innocents – and the talking heads of the West are trotting out the same tired standard schtick about “protection” and “family planning services.”
To briefly summarize: there is a hideous mosquito-transmitted (and less frequently, sexually-transmitted) blood borne virus that has the potential to cause profound birth defects in babies who are exposed in utero. There is no known treatment or inoculation, and the recommendation for travelers abroad is to avoid conception for 30-120 (or more, sources vary) days after potential exposure.
I can’t help myself. My newsfeed is filling up with blustering outrage and hand wringing over the Zika virus – a heinous incurable disease with dire consequences for the most defenseless innocents – and the talking heads of the West are trotting out the same tired standard schtick about “protection” and “family planning services.”
To briefly summarize: there is a hideous mosquito-transmitted (and less frequently, sexually-transmitted) blood borne virus that has the potential to cause profound birth defects in babies who are exposed in utero. There is no known treatment or inoculation, and the recommendation for travelers abroad is to avoid conception for 30-120 (or more, sources vary) days after potential exposure.
Long-forgotten Beatrix Potter story discovered after 100 years
Beatrix Potter story Kitty-in-Boots discovered after 100 years - BBC News: A new story written by Beatrix Potter more than 100 years ago, featuring Peter Rabbit, is to be published for the first time.
The Tale of Kitty-in-Boots was rediscovered by publisher Jo Hanks after she found a reference to it in an out-of-print Potter biography.
Quentin Blake, best known for his work with Roald Dahl, has illustrated the story, to be published in September.
Potter had only completed a single drawing to go with the manuscript.
The Tale of Kitty-in-Boots was rediscovered by publisher Jo Hanks after she found a reference to it in an out-of-print Potter biography.
Quentin Blake, best known for his work with Roald Dahl, has illustrated the story, to be published in September.
Potter had only completed a single drawing to go with the manuscript.
The Church isn’t obsessed with sex, but it is with humanity
The Church isn’t obsessed with sex, but it is with humanity | CruxALLEN: Like most reporters, I keep a rolling list of story ideas that have floated across my radar screen and that I might pursue if time and energy allow. Normally I hold onto a set of three or four such ideas for a few days, then file them away and start over.
Here are a few items on my list right now...
Here are a few items on my list right now...
If the Holy Family had lived in a snowy climate, St. Joseph probably would have built something like this...
Video Wonder: A DIY Backyard Luge Track | Atlas Obscura: Think you know sledding? You ain't got nothing on these kids, who transformed their entire backyard into a home-made luge run perfect for plastic saucers.
In the video, the sledders double as newscasters, reporting on three key features of their 2015 winter carnival. Cooper explains the strategy behind his specialty "knee hop," while Maggie explains her signature "spin sister." The tykes even have a sponsor—the local hardware store.
In the video, the sledders double as newscasters, reporting on three key features of their 2015 winter carnival. Cooper explains the strategy behind his specialty "knee hop," while Maggie explains her signature "spin sister." The tykes even have a sponsor—the local hardware store.
Thursday, January 28, 2016
Scientists uncover intriguing new clues to how your brain maps time
New Clues to How the Brain Maps Time | Quanta Magazine: Our brains have an extraordinary ability to monitor time. A driver can judge just how much time is left to run a yellow light; a dancer can keep a beat down to the millisecond. But exactly how the brain tracks time is still a mystery. Researchers have defined the brain areas involved in movement, memory, color vision and other functions, but not the ones that monitor time. Indeed, our neural timekeeper has proved so elusive that most scientists assume this mechanism is distributed throughout the brain, with different regions using different monitors to keep track of time according to their needs.
The best is yet to come for Catholicism
The Best Is Yet to Come for Catholicism - The Catholic ThingMCCLOSKEY: Some years ago I co-wrote with longtime Catholic journalist Russell Shaw a book entitled Good News, Bad News (still in print from Ignatius Press). It covers evangelization, conversion, and the crisis of faith, complete with many anecdotes of conversion, including those of well-known men and women.
On the one hand, as we all know, over the last several decades, a great many Catholics have left the faith. For most of us, this phenomenon hits close to home, with examples among family members.
On the one hand, as we all know, over the last several decades, a great many Catholics have left the faith. For most of us, this phenomenon hits close to home, with examples among family members.
On same-sex unions in Italy: What did Pope Francis say and when did he say it?
On same-sex unions in Italy: What did Pope Francis say and when did he say it? — GetReligionMATTINGLY: Please help me out on something. I am somewhat confused. Maybe.
Looking back in my email files from the past few days, I just reread a New York Times news story that ran under the headline, "Italy Divided Over Effort to Legalize Civil Unions for Gays." This story ran on Sunday, Jan. 24. Let's assume that this means the final edit was on the previous day (knowing that major weekend reports are usually planned days earlier).
OK, then I read a new analysis piece at Crux, written by the omnipresent John L. Allen, Jr., that ran under the headline, "Pope Francis sends mixed signals on civil unions for gay couples." This story ran on Jan. 27.
Looking back in my email files from the past few days, I just reread a New York Times news story that ran under the headline, "Italy Divided Over Effort to Legalize Civil Unions for Gays." This story ran on Sunday, Jan. 24. Let's assume that this means the final edit was on the previous day (knowing that major weekend reports are usually planned days earlier).
OK, then I read a new analysis piece at Crux, written by the omnipresent John L. Allen, Jr., that ran under the headline, "Pope Francis sends mixed signals on civil unions for gay couples." This story ran on Jan. 27.
This miraculous 1968 event in Egypt might be the most-witnessed Marian apparition in Church history
When Mary Returned to Egypt: The Apparitions at Zeitoun | The Christian ReviewLAFAVE: The evening of April 2, 1968 began just like any other in Zeitoun, the sprawling suburb of Cairo. The hot, dusty streets were alive with the cacophony of horns, carts, and street peddlers making their way home through the dusky haze.
Farouk Atwa—a 31 year-old construction worker—had just completed his shift in a parking garage across from St. Mary’s Coptic Church, when he saw the woman in white robes perched on the basilica’s main dome. “Don’t do it, lady!” he shouted, summoning curious onlookers, “Don’t jump!” The woman, who did not hear him, appeared to glide effortlessly over the smooth, sloping roof toward the church’s cross, with her head bowed and hands folded in prayer.
Farouk Atwa—a 31 year-old construction worker—had just completed his shift in a parking garage across from St. Mary’s Coptic Church, when he saw the woman in white robes perched on the basilica’s main dome. “Don’t do it, lady!” he shouted, summoning curious onlookers, “Don’t jump!” The woman, who did not hear him, appeared to glide effortlessly over the smooth, sloping roof toward the church’s cross, with her head bowed and hands folded in prayer.
The amazing story behind the very Christian plaque at Mount Rushmore
The Amazing History Behind the Very Christian Plaque at Mount Rushmore |Blogs | NCRegister.comMATTARCHBOLD: The story behind a plaque at Mount Rushmore explaining the history of the United States of America with quite a Christian flavor would probably surprise many people.
President Calvin Coolidge met the artist Gutzon Borglum who prompted him to dedicate the site for a carving of four president's busts in the 1920's. Coolidge helped to raise funds and was even present as the cornerstone was laid and said, “We have come here to dedicate a cornerstone laid by the hand of the Almighty. …The union of these four presidents carved on the face of the everlasting Black Hills of South Dakota … will be distinctly American in its conception, in its magnitude, in its meaning."
Borglum, in turn, asked that Coolidge himself write the inscription that would accompany the portraits on Rushmore. You see he didn't want a group of heads in a mountain without an explanation. He feared that without an "entablature," generations in the future wouldn't understand their importance or significance, much like Stonehenge or the rock faces of Easter Island. The words were supposed to appear writ large right next to the presidents' heads. A law was passed partly funding the project and stating that Coolidge would write the inscription that would "endure for 5,000 centuries."
President Calvin Coolidge met the artist Gutzon Borglum who prompted him to dedicate the site for a carving of four president's busts in the 1920's. Coolidge helped to raise funds and was even present as the cornerstone was laid and said, “We have come here to dedicate a cornerstone laid by the hand of the Almighty. …The union of these four presidents carved on the face of the everlasting Black Hills of South Dakota … will be distinctly American in its conception, in its magnitude, in its meaning."
Borglum, in turn, asked that Coolidge himself write the inscription that would accompany the portraits on Rushmore. You see he didn't want a group of heads in a mountain without an explanation. He feared that without an "entablature," generations in the future wouldn't understand their importance or significance, much like Stonehenge or the rock faces of Easter Island. The words were supposed to appear writ large right next to the presidents' heads. A law was passed partly funding the project and stating that Coolidge would write the inscription that would "endure for 5,000 centuries."
Trump: It would be “phenomenal” to have his pro-abortion sister on the Supreme Court
Not. Trump.: As Catholics, we are called to participate in the democratic process. The Church does not endorse candidates for public office. That job rests with us, the laity. No candidate is perfect, and no simple checklist is sufficient. Prudence is a necessity. Some candidates ought to be disqualified from receiving the support of a Catholic voter. Others must be weighed in light of the moral principles given to us by our Church. �
We have asked for your feedback on multiple occasions. Thousands of CV members have written. We’ve read them all. In addition we follow the daily news, analysis, polling, and have crafted our strategy for 2016.
We have asked for your feedback on multiple occasions. Thousands of CV members have written. We’ve read them all. In addition we follow the daily news, analysis, polling, and have crafted our strategy for 2016.
Why the “good person” is rejected: 4th Sunday in Ordinary Time
The Sacred Page: Why the "Good Person" is Rejected: 4th Sunday in OTBERGSMA: One of Jeremiah’s major contributions to salvation history and Christian theology is his own person as a type of Christ, more so than any other prophet.� Biography plays little role in the Book of Isaiah, but a large role in Jeremiah.� In many ways, Jeremiah becomes absorbed into his prophetic ministry, such that not just his words but his own life experiences become transformed into “prophesy.”�
Indeed, tradition remembered Jeremiah as the quintessential suffering prophet, and more than one scholar has proposed that the “Suffering Servant” of the second half of Isaiah was modeled on Jeremiah.� Thus it is unsurprising that Jeremiah is the first of the literary prophets that Jesus’ contemporaries compared to him
Indeed, tradition remembered Jeremiah as the quintessential suffering prophet, and more than one scholar has proposed that the “Suffering Servant” of the second half of Isaiah was modeled on Jeremiah.� Thus it is unsurprising that Jeremiah is the first of the literary prophets that Jesus’ contemporaries compared to him
You don't have to like a pope
You Don’t Have to Like a Pope - The Catholic Thing: Let me see whether I can clarify something. You don’t have to like a pope. You don’t have to like the way he talks to reporters, the way he addresses people in public, or the kinds of shoes he wears. You don’t even have to like the approach he takes to various topics. But you do have to respect the teaching authority of his office when he exercises that authority officially.
In making this claim, I’m merely echoing Pope Saint John Paul II who in Ad Tuendam Fidem, a document composed with the explicit intention “of protecting the faith (ad tuendam fidem) of the Catholic Church against errors arising from certain members of the Christian faithful,” considered it “absolutely necessary to add to the existing texts of the Code of Canon Law. . .new norms which expressly impose the obligation of upholding truths proposed in a definitive way by the Magisterium of the Church.”
In making this claim, I’m merely echoing Pope Saint John Paul II who in Ad Tuendam Fidem, a document composed with the explicit intention “of protecting the faith (ad tuendam fidem) of the Catholic Church against errors arising from certain members of the Christian faithful,” considered it “absolutely necessary to add to the existing texts of the Code of Canon Law. . .new norms which expressly impose the obligation of upholding truths proposed in a definitive way by the Magisterium of the Church.”
Shias, Catholics and Protestants: Sectarian splits are widening in Islam and lessening in Christianity
Shias, Catholics and Protestants: Sectarian splits are widening in Islam and lessening in Christianity | The Economist: ONE OF this week’s most arresting news photographs featured Pope Francis in smiling conversation with President Hassan Rouhani of Iran, who is touring Europe in the hope of asserting his country’s emergence from international isolation. The Iranian visitor asked for the pontiff’s prayers, and the Vatican announced afterwards that “common spiritual values” emerged during the conversation. It was the first meeting between a pope and an Iranian president since 1999.
The Angelic Doctor's 5 remedies for the pain and sorrow in your life
NCRegister | The Angelic Doctor's Five Remedies for Pain and SorrowDEMARCO: Should “Old Aquinas” be forgot and never brought to mind?
Rather, St. Thomas should be well remembered because he helps to form the mind. This is sufficient reason to remember and honor him on his Jan. 28 feast day. Apart from being a philosopher and theologian of unparalleled excellence, he, along with William Shakespeare, stands among the greatest psychologists of Western history.
A good example of the Angelic Doctor’s psychological acumen can be found in his Summa Theologiae (I-II, Q. 38, a.3), where he presents five remedies for pain and sorrow. Since pain and sorrow enter the lives of everyone born into this valley of tears, these remedies have great practical significance and should be of widespread interest. What is more is that they all have the virtues of being natural, readily available, cost-free and devoid of side effects.
Rather, St. Thomas should be well remembered because he helps to form the mind. This is sufficient reason to remember and honor him on his Jan. 28 feast day. Apart from being a philosopher and theologian of unparalleled excellence, he, along with William Shakespeare, stands among the greatest psychologists of Western history.
A good example of the Angelic Doctor’s psychological acumen can be found in his Summa Theologiae (I-II, Q. 38, a.3), where he presents five remedies for pain and sorrow. Since pain and sorrow enter the lives of everyone born into this valley of tears, these remedies have great practical significance and should be of widespread interest. What is more is that they all have the virtues of being natural, readily available, cost-free and devoid of side effects.
Meet the one-eyed former slave who became an apostle of the Sacred Heart and a giant of mercy
Model of Mercy in Denver: The Powerful Story of Julia Greeley | Daily News | NCRegister.com: Julia Greeley was a familiar sight on the streets of Denver in the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Wearing a floppy hat, oversized shoes and dabbing her bad eye with a handkerchief, Greeley was often seen pulling her red wagon of goods to deliver to the poor and homeless of the city. She had a particularly special devotion to the Sacred Heart and would deliver images and information about the icon to firefighters throughout Denver every month.
Her charitable work earned her the title of a “one-person St. Vincent de Paul Society” from one writer and has made her the local model of mercy for the Jubilee Year of Mercy.
Wearing a floppy hat, oversized shoes and dabbing her bad eye with a handkerchief, Greeley was often seen pulling her red wagon of goods to deliver to the poor and homeless of the city. She had a particularly special devotion to the Sacred Heart and would deliver images and information about the icon to firefighters throughout Denver every month.
Her charitable work earned her the title of a “one-person St. Vincent de Paul Society” from one writer and has made her the local model of mercy for the Jubilee Year of Mercy.
10 things about St. Thomas Aquinas that every Catholic should know
BIG C CATHOLICS: Ten Things About St. Thomas Aquinas Every Catholic Should Know: One of the most brilliant minds in the history of the Church, St. Thomas Aquinas was born in 1225 at the castle of Roccasecca, in the present day Lazio region of Italy, the youngest of nine children. Thomas’ father was a man of means and nobility. Thomas's mother would try to prevent Thomas from joining the Dominican Order. His family expected him to enter the Benedictine Abbey where his uncle was the abbot. Thomas Aquinas dedicated his life to creating a complete synthesis of Catholic philosophy and theology. In honor of his feast day, [January 28] here are ten things every Catholic should know about the Angelic Doctor.
Wednesday, January 27, 2016
6 smartphone apps to help you have a prayerful Lent
6 Apps to Help You Have a Prayerful Lent |Blogs | NCRegister.comFENELON: With Lent rushing upon us, I’ve been particularly interested in apps that will help me make this a fruitful, prayerful and holy Lent.
One problem: If you haven’t noticed, there’s a plethora of apps out there than can — and would — help me along through Lent.
I decided to ask some experts about the Lent apps they recommend.
Here are the results.
One problem: If you haven’t noticed, there’s a plethora of apps out there than can — and would — help me along through Lent.
I decided to ask some experts about the Lent apps they recommend.
Here are the results.
Student who helped build Turnpike Mass altar reports possible Eucharistic miracle
Student Who Built Turnpike Mass Altar Reports Possible Eucharist Miracle | ChurchPOPMILLEGAN: One of the coolest things about the Great Turnpike Mass of 2016 was that it involved so many young people!
ChurchPOP interviewed one of the students who not only attended this amazing event, but helped build the snow altar! And get this: he says he may have witnessed a Eucharistic miracle at the Mass.
ChurchPOP interviewed one of the students who not only attended this amazing event, but helped build the snow altar! And get this: he says he may have witnessed a Eucharistic miracle at the Mass.
Best answers: Of nursing, foolishness, and SNL
Best Answers: Of Nursing, Foolishness, and SNLBECKER: You’ve probably heard that Barnum didn’t coin that memorable phrase. In fact, there’s no hard evidence that the consummate showman and circus magnate ever said it even once. Still, the quotation has become permanently associated with Barnum’s name because he was the quintessential charlatan.
His circus – the “Greatest Show on Earth” – owed its success, at least in part, to exaggeration, dubious claims, and hoaxes, and all of those depended on locating folks with money to burn and credulity to exploit – “suckers,” in other words. Rubes. Chumps. Fools – as in the old saying, “a fool and his money are soon parted.”
But there’s another kind of fool, and this auditorium is full of them: Nursing students. Students who have devoted long hours to arduous study, the painstaking acquisition of new skills, and the challenges of early morning – very early morning – clinical experiences. And…why – for what?
His circus – the “Greatest Show on Earth” – owed its success, at least in part, to exaggeration, dubious claims, and hoaxes, and all of those depended on locating folks with money to burn and credulity to exploit – “suckers,” in other words. Rubes. Chumps. Fools – as in the old saying, “a fool and his money are soon parted.”
But there’s another kind of fool, and this auditorium is full of them: Nursing students. Students who have devoted long hours to arduous study, the painstaking acquisition of new skills, and the challenges of early morning – very early morning – clinical experiences. And…why – for what?
Love in the Time of Zika
Love in the Time of Zika |Blogs | NCRegister.comFISHER: When Pope Francis' environmental encyclical Laudato Si came out, some Catholics rolled their eyes. ISIS is beheading Christians, and Planned Parenthood is beheading unborn babies! If we're supposed to be pro-life, why aren't we wringing our hands about these problems? Catholics should worry about real issues that affect actual people. The spotted owl and the rain forest can go pound sand.
Enter the Zika virus. It's a nasty, mosquito-borne disease that is spreading through South America and Latin America, and is the likely cause of thousands of serious birth defects. Mosquitoes thrive in warm, wet environments without enough cold to cause die-offs. If the world is getting warmer and wetter, then mosquitoes—and the diseases they spread so efficiently—will flourish.
Enter the Zika virus. It's a nasty, mosquito-borne disease that is spreading through South America and Latin America, and is the likely cause of thousands of serious birth defects. Mosquitoes thrive in warm, wet environments without enough cold to cause die-offs. If the world is getting warmer and wetter, then mosquitoes—and the diseases they spread so efficiently—will flourish.
Bent coins, body candles, and incubation: Ancient devotions to the saints
Bent Coins, Body Candles, and Incubation: Ancient Devotions to the Saints |Blogs | NCRegister.comMCDONALD: A story is told in the Life of St. Gotthard of a priest in the 12th century named Folcward who met a poor women with a dying child. He urged the woman to make a vow to St. Gotthard for the boy’s recovery, and seal it with the promise of a candle the length of the boy for use at the saint’s shrine. She had no money for this, so Folcward measured the child with a strand of flax which he would use as the wick for the promised candle. The boy was healed before Folcward left the house with the flax.
In the Miracles of Thecla, we learn of Alypios, who slept in Thecla’s church one night to cure an illness. The saint visited him during is vigil and he was cured, “as is her custom.”
In the Miracles of Thecla, we learn of Alypios, who slept in Thecla’s church one night to cure an illness. The saint visited him during is vigil and he was cured, “as is her custom.”
Among other things, President Obama carries a rosary from Pope Francis in his pocket
President Obama Carries a Rosary from Pope Francis in His Pocket | ChurchPOPMILLEGAN: President Barack Obama revealed in a recent interview that he carries a rosary from Pope Francis in his pocket.
“That obviously means a lot to me because I so admire him. It makes me think about peace and promoting understanding and ethical behavior.”
He also pulled from his pocket a small Coptic cross from Ethiopia.
YouTube personality Ingrid Nilsen had asked the president to bring something from his home that was important to him.
Obama explained that since he started running for president, people have gifted him with various objects. While he has too many things to carry all at once, he says he regularly picks out a few things every now and then to carry around to “remind me of all the people I’ve met along the way and the stories they’ve told me.”
He also showed a tiny buddhist figurine from a buddhist monk, a “lucky poker chip” from a biker, and a hindu figurine.
“That obviously means a lot to me because I so admire him. It makes me think about peace and promoting understanding and ethical behavior.”
He also pulled from his pocket a small Coptic cross from Ethiopia.
YouTube personality Ingrid Nilsen had asked the president to bring something from his home that was important to him.
Obama explained that since he started running for president, people have gifted him with various objects. While he has too many things to carry all at once, he says he regularly picks out a few things every now and then to carry around to “remind me of all the people I’ve met along the way and the stories they’ve told me.”
He also showed a tiny buddhist figurine from a buddhist monk, a “lucky poker chip” from a biker, and a hindu figurine.
The Benedictines of Norcia make some great beer—and now it's coming to the USA...
Benedictines of Norcia make GREAT beer! Coming to these USA! | Fr. Z's BlogZUHLSDORF: In the wake of not-so-great news, here is some wonderful news.
Birra Nursia comes to these USA! � Dear readers, I can testify that this is excellent beer. And it is made by monks who are worthy of your support.
Here’s the press information about the beer: Beginning January 22 at 7am EST and following closely on the heels of the chart topping release of their Benedicta CD of Gregorian chant, the Monastery of San Benedetto is elated to announce the launch of the revised, revamped 2.0 version of birranursia.com.
Birra Nursia comes to these USA! � Dear readers, I can testify that this is excellent beer. And it is made by monks who are worthy of your support.
Here’s the press information about the beer: Beginning January 22 at 7am EST and following closely on the heels of the chart topping release of their Benedicta CD of Gregorian chant, the Monastery of San Benedetto is elated to announce the launch of the revised, revamped 2.0 version of birranursia.com.
After 26 years, Greg Erlandson announces retirement from OSV
After 26 years, OSV bids farewell to Greg Erlandson: Change is never easy, so the saying goes. The depths of this truth are being tested this week as Our Sunday Visitor says goodbye and good luck to its longtime leader and friend, Greg Erlandson.
Erlandson has been a fixture at OSV since 1989, when he moved from Rome to Fort Wayne, Indiana, to take the position of editor of OSV Newsweekly. Just three years later, he was appointed editor-in-chief, overseeing all of OSV’s design and editorial content. Finally, in 2000, he was named president and publisher. During his impressive 15-year tenure in this role, Erlandson expanded the national and international reach of OSV editorial content and has become an internationally respected figure in the field of Church communications. The impact of his work can be seen from thousands of parishes in the United States all the way up to the Vatican.
Erlandson has been a fixture at OSV since 1989, when he moved from Rome to Fort Wayne, Indiana, to take the position of editor of OSV Newsweekly. Just three years later, he was appointed editor-in-chief, overseeing all of OSV’s design and editorial content. Finally, in 2000, he was named president and publisher. During his impressive 15-year tenure in this role, Erlandson expanded the national and international reach of OSV editorial content and has become an internationally respected figure in the field of Church communications. The impact of his work can be seen from thousands of parishes in the United States all the way up to the Vatican.
Pope's much-awaited post-synod doc to be released in March, says Vatican official
Vatican official: Pope's post-synod doc will be released in March :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): Pope Francis' apostolic exhortation on family life following last year's synod will be published in March, says Archbishop Vincenzo Paglia, president of the Vatican's Pontifical Council for the Family.
In an interview with the Portuguese Catholic agency Ecclesia, Archbishop Paglia said that the Pope will release the document in March 2016, and that it will “show that the Church is close to families in all stages of their lives.”
In an interview with the Portuguese Catholic agency Ecclesia, Archbishop Paglia said that the Pope will release the document in March 2016, and that it will “show that the Church is close to families in all stages of their lives.”
Optional Memorial of Saint Angela Merici, Foundress and Virgin
BIG C CATHOLICS: Optional Memorial of Saint Angela Merici, Foundress and Virgin: Saint Angela Merici was born in northern Italy in the year 1474. At age 15, she and her older sister were left orphans. A short time later, her sister would die without receiving Last Rites. Angela was most alarmed by this and prayed fervently for her sister’s soul. By God’s grace, Angela received a vision confirming her sister was indeed in heaven among the saints. Angela dedicated her life to Christ; spending countless hours educating and tending to the needs of poor women and girls.
In Crete, on a trip to the Holy Land, she was struck blind [praying in front of a crucifix]. Friends urged her to return home but Angela continued the pilgrimage with as much devotion as if she could see. Upon her return, Angela’s sight was restored while praying in front of crucifix at the same place where she was struck blind. �At age 57, she founded the first teaching order of religious sisters in the Church as well as the first “secular institute” of religious women.
In Crete, on a trip to the Holy Land, she was struck blind [praying in front of a crucifix]. Friends urged her to return home but Angela continued the pilgrimage with as much devotion as if she could see. Upon her return, Angela’s sight was restored while praying in front of crucifix at the same place where she was struck blind. �At age 57, she founded the first teaching order of religious sisters in the Church as well as the first “secular institute” of religious women.
Human ecology isn't what you think it is
Human Ecology Isn't What You Think It Is | Business@CUAWIDMER: A thriving ecology encompasses all of our needs: physical, mental, emotional and spiritual. The goal ought to be well-being, thriving, happiness. Humanity cannot achieve that if any one of the four needs are not met. As H.G. Wells wrote in Work, Wealth and Happiness of Mankind, “Ecology deals with the welfare of species generally…It is the science of the balance of life.”
In his Encyclical Evangelium Vitae, Pope John Paul II wrote of the relationship between stewardship of creation and human dignity, saying, “…man has specific responsibility towards the environment in which he lives, towards the creation which God has put at the service of his personal dignity, of his life, not only for the present but also for future generations.” Pope Francis’ great achievement is to propose an approach that includes environmental stewardship alongside with cultural, spiritual and social stewardship.
In his Encyclical Evangelium Vitae, Pope John Paul II wrote of the relationship between stewardship of creation and human dignity, saying, “…man has specific responsibility towards the environment in which he lives, towards the creation which God has put at the service of his personal dignity, of his life, not only for the present but also for future generations.” Pope Francis’ great achievement is to propose an approach that includes environmental stewardship alongside with cultural, spiritual and social stewardship.
Shut down Roe v. Wade with these 4 points
Shut Down Roe v. Wade with These 4 Points - Seton MagazineCLARK: In the course of my research during the past year, I encountered four powerful answers to Roe v. Wade in two books that should be required reading for anyone working in the pro-life movement.
Both books make Constitutional, ethical, and natural law arguments against abortion.
The first is a book released in 2013 titled Abuse of Discretion: The Inside Story of Roe v. Wade, by Clarke D. Forsythe.
In this book, Forsythe expertly and brilliantly revisits the argument made in favor of Roe.
Both books make Constitutional, ethical, and natural law arguments against abortion.
The first is a book released in 2013 titled Abuse of Discretion: The Inside Story of Roe v. Wade, by Clarke D. Forsythe.
In this book, Forsythe expertly and brilliantly revisits the argument made in favor of Roe.
The common good can never be served by deporting some little girl's dad...
The moral urgency of immigration reform - CNN.comGOMEZ: The new year began with a new wave of government raids targeting immigrants from Central America and Mexico. About 120 were rounded up for deportation -- mostly women and children, many of whom had come to the U.S. fleeing violence in their home countries.
The raids are yet another depressing sign of the failed state of American immigration policy.
After nearly a decade of debate, everyone agrees that our immigration system is broken and needs comprehensive reform. But year after year slips by without a solution. In the vacuum created by polarization and inaction, deportation has become our government's "de facto" policy.
The raids are yet another depressing sign of the failed state of American immigration policy.
After nearly a decade of debate, everyone agrees that our immigration system is broken and needs comprehensive reform. But year after year slips by without a solution. In the vacuum created by polarization and inaction, deportation has become our government's "de facto" policy.
The inside story on the Turnpike Mass, from the priest who led it
The Inside Story on the Turnpike Mass, From the Priest Who Led It | ChurchPOPMILLEGAN: You’ve probably heard the basic story by now: busses full of students heading home from the March for Life in Washington D.C. got stuck on a highway because of a blizzard, and while they were waiting they constructed an altar out of snow and held Mass on the side of the highway. Amazing!
ChurchPOP tracked down the priest who presided over this historic Mass, Fr. Patrick Behm, and interviewed him about his experience.
“It was incredible,” Fr. Behm told ChurchPOP, “easily one of the highlights of my time as a priest.”
ChurchPOP tracked down the priest who presided over this historic Mass, Fr. Patrick Behm, and interviewed him about his experience.
“It was incredible,” Fr. Behm told ChurchPOP, “easily one of the highlights of my time as a priest.”
Catholic colleges should claim Title IX exemptions, says Newman Society president
Gender Identity vs. Catholic Identity Face-Off After Title IX Expansions | Daily News | NCRegister.com: The federal government’s broadening interpretations of Title IX, the 1972 anti-sexual-discrimination statute that applies to educational institutions, has raised concerns that the freedom of Catholic colleges and universities to teach and govern themselves according to the Church’s teachings on sexuality is at risk.
At least five Catholic educational institutions are among a wave of Christian colleges and universities that have applied for Title IX exemptions, in the wake of the Department of Education’s Office of Civil Rights’ expansion of Title IX’s interpretation to include “discrimination based on gender identity or failure to conform to stereotypical notions of masculinity or femininity.” These Catholic colleges and universities have argued that the new rule interferes with their ability to govern themselves in full accord with Catholic teaching.
At least five Catholic educational institutions are among a wave of Christian colleges and universities that have applied for Title IX exemptions, in the wake of the Department of Education’s Office of Civil Rights’ expansion of Title IX’s interpretation to include “discrimination based on gender identity or failure to conform to stereotypical notions of masculinity or femininity.” These Catholic colleges and universities have argued that the new rule interferes with their ability to govern themselves in full accord with Catholic teaching.
Pope Francis sends mixed signals on civil unions for gay couples
Pope Francis sends mixed signals on civil unions for gay couples | CruxALLEN: Last weekend, tens of thousands of Italians took to at least 100 piazzas up and down the country to demonstrate their support for a measure currently before the Italian parliament, and backed by the governing center-left majority, to provide civil unions for same-sex couples along with full adoption rights.
On Saturday, another wave of demonstrators is expected to flood Rome’s Circus Maximus to oppose that measure, in a rally known as Family Day. It was originally set for the square outside St. John Lateran, for centuries the seat of the papacy, but organizers say they were forced to relocate due to the high number of people planning to take part.
On Saturday, another wave of demonstrators is expected to flood Rome’s Circus Maximus to oppose that measure, in a rally known as Family Day. It was originally set for the square outside St. John Lateran, for centuries the seat of the papacy, but organizers say they were forced to relocate due to the high number of people planning to take part.
Canadian bishops warn of “totalitarianism” as gender agenda forced on schools; March 31 deadline looms
Canadian Bishops Warn of 'Totalitarianism' as Gender Agenda Forced on Schools | Daily News | NCRegister.comFRAGA: The Catholic bishops in the western Canadian province of Alberta are criticizing a new set of government guidelines that require religious and public schools to enact policies that respect the “gender diversity” of their students.
The bishops say the guidelines — which declare self-identification to be the sole measure of an individual’s sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression — reflect a relativistic view of human nature and sexual orientation that directly contradicts a Catholic and biblical understanding of the human person and reality.
The bishops say the guidelines — which declare self-identification to be the sole measure of an individual’s sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression — reflect a relativistic view of human nature and sexual orientation that directly contradicts a Catholic and biblical understanding of the human person and reality.
Strong, honorable and decent men defend life. But 3 other types of males support abortion...
Little Catholic Bubble: The three types of men who support abortionMILLER: The other day I read perhaps the best article on abortion that I've ever read, and I started looking through the combox. There was one man, John, who seemed to be making the bulk of the pro-"choice" arguments, and so, like many others there, I engaged him.
He and I went back and forth a bit, but a red flag came up for me when the answers to very simple questions were met with multiple long and (seemingly) lofty philosophical treatises, metaphysics trumping science (the old "personhood" question), a limited understanding of history, and analogies that didn't make logical connections and/or proper distinctions. I tried to pull him back to basics, attempting a pseudo-socratic dialogue, but his words and paragraphs -- and justifications -- kept multiplying.
He and I went back and forth a bit, but a red flag came up for me when the answers to very simple questions were met with multiple long and (seemingly) lofty philosophical treatises, metaphysics trumping science (the old "personhood" question), a limited understanding of history, and analogies that didn't make logical connections and/or proper distinctions. I tried to pull him back to basics, attempting a pseudo-socratic dialogue, but his words and paragraphs -- and justifications -- kept multiplying.
10 things I wish every woman considering adoption could hear...
From My Heart: What I Wish Every Woman Considering Adoption Could Hear | ChurchPOP: From my heart, to all women considering putting their child up for adoption...
Wesley McKellar, seminarian who received early screening of Star Wars VII, dies at age 22
Seminarian, 22, Dies After Battling Brain Cancer – Aleteia.org: Wesley Zechariah McKellar, 22, passed away after a heroic two year battle with brain cancer on January 25, 2016, at the Kansas City Hospice House…In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the St. Andrew’s Seminarian Fund.
The Church has been right on divorce all along
The Church Has Been Right on Divorce All Along - Crisis MagazineMORSE: I would like to weigh in on Ross Douthat’s on-going dialogue with theologians employed at nominally Catholic institutions. Like Douthat, I am not a theologian. However, we don’t have to be theologians in order to be good Catholics or people of good sense. I think us “amateurs” can contribute two very solid points that the theologians sometimes seem to overlook. We can point out that Jesus was and is the Son of God. And we can point out that he was correct about divorce. We cannot make these two points too often.
China’s population crisis is an evangelical opportunity
China’s Population Crisis: An Evangelical Opportunity? - Denver CatholicWEIGEL: State-sponsored cruelty has been a staple of the human condition for millennia. But has there ever been a more wicked policy, with more disastrous social consequences, than the “one-child policy” China began to implement in the early 1980s – a state-decreed population-control measure that resulted in, among other horrors, untold tens of millions of coerced abortions? In her new book, One Child, veteran China-watcher Mei Fong describes both the impact of the policy on the destruction of China’s traditional social fabric and its draconian effects on China’s medium- and long-term future.
Should Catholics apologize to Protestants?
Should Catholics Apologize to Protestants?LONGENECKER: Should a pope, or for that matter, should any Catholic apologize to Protestants for the persecutions of the past? First it should be made clear that the pope is not apologizing for the Catholic Church or for the eternal claims of the Catholic Church. He’s taking responsibility for the actions of individual Catholics down the ages who persecuted their non Catholic brothers and sisters.
Even so, is this a legitimate thing to do? Can one person apologize for the sins of another?
Yes. It’s a perfectly good and decent thing to do, and it was a magnificent step forward when Pope St John Paul II did this in 2000, and it is wonderful to see Pope Francis follow in his footsteps. It is possible to express regret and sorrow over the sins of the past because we are one body and often the sins committed by individual Catholics were done in the name of their religion.
Even so, is this a legitimate thing to do? Can one person apologize for the sins of another?
Yes. It’s a perfectly good and decent thing to do, and it was a magnificent step forward when Pope St John Paul II did this in 2000, and it is wonderful to see Pope Francis follow in his footsteps. It is possible to express regret and sorrow over the sins of the past because we are one body and often the sins committed by individual Catholics were done in the name of their religion.
Washington Post edits heretical hyphen into mouth of Marco Rubio
Oh my Triune God! Washington Post edits heretical hyphen into mouth of Marco Rubio — GetReligionMATTINGLY: There is much that can be said about the latest Washington Post look at the state of Sen. Marco Rubio's political soul, and we will get to that in a moment. But first, there is a dose of heresy at the top of this story – "Marco Rubio talks to Iowa about God" – that needs to be straightened out.
I totally understand that the Christian doctrine of the Trinity – the belief in God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit – is complicated and people have been arguing about it for two millennia. I can understand that this doctrine might cause problems for copy-desk professionals who do not have degrees in church history. However, for the world's 2.2 billion or so Christians, this is pretty important stuff.
I totally understand that the Christian doctrine of the Trinity – the belief in God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit – is complicated and people have been arguing about it for two millennia. I can understand that this doctrine might cause problems for copy-desk professionals who do not have degrees in church history. However, for the world's 2.2 billion or so Christians, this is pretty important stuff.
Tuesday, January 26, 2016
This is why Peyton Manning matters...
Why Peyton MattersWORNER: In September, 2014, Peyton received a letter from military wife Kristen Patterson asking if her husband could meet him when they would be in Cincinnati for the Bengals-Broncos game. Peyton didn’t simply discard the letter, or send a mass-produced autographed photo. He had the team go in search of the Pattersons who were based in Alaska and had left no return address. After three months of Broncos-led detective work, an Alaska state trooper located the family to tell them that Peyton and the Broncos were trying to locate them. Before the Pattersons knew what happened, they found themselves in a private conference room of the Bronco’s hotel in Cincinnati with Peyton Manning. The warm and affable quarterback joked, “You guys are really hard to find.” Pictures were taken, autographs signed, a young daughter was introduced and Peyton parted with thanks for the soldier’s service to his country.
Planned Parenthood board member works in office of D.A. who indicted David Daleiden
Planned Parenthood Board Member Works in Office of D.A. Who Indicted David Daleiden | LifeNews.com: As LifeNews reported Monday, a Texas grand jury has ignored the videos exposing a Houston-based Planned Parenthood abortion clinic caught selling aborted baby body parts and has instead indicted the man behind producing the expose’ videos.
The Texas grand jury indicted David Daleiden and another pro-life activist, Sandra Merritt, behind the videos. Instead of prosecuting Planned Parenthood for selling aborted baby parts, Daleiden was indicted for buying them.
The Texas grand jury indicted David Daleiden and another pro-life activist, Sandra Merritt, behind the videos. Instead of prosecuting Planned Parenthood for selling aborted baby parts, Daleiden was indicted for buying them.
Pope Francis meets Iranian leader to discuss Middle East, possible trip
Pope Francis meets Iranian leader to discuss Middle East, possible trip | CruxSANMARTIN: Pope Francis’ meeting with Iranian President Hassan Rouhani at the Vatican Tuesday marked the first time Rouhani has visited the West since a landmark nuclear agreement and the lifting of international sanctions against Iran last year.
Although neither the Vatican nor Rouhani’s delegation would describe the content of the conversation, it was widely expected that the two men focused on the Middle East, including Iran’s role in the conflict in Syria and Iraq and the fate of Christian minorities across the region.
Unconfirmed Italian media reports also suggested that Rouhani may have used the occasion to invite Francis to visit Iran, perhaps as early as May when the pontiff is said to be mulling an outing to Armenia.
Although neither the Vatican nor Rouhani’s delegation would describe the content of the conversation, it was widely expected that the two men focused on the Middle East, including Iran’s role in the conflict in Syria and Iraq and the fate of Christian minorities across the region.
Unconfirmed Italian media reports also suggested that Rouhani may have used the occasion to invite Francis to visit Iran, perhaps as early as May when the pontiff is said to be mulling an outing to Armenia.
The bond between the Vatican and Iran is a partnership destined to endure
The bond between the Vatican and Iran is a partnership destined to endure | CruxALLEN: Although it’s forever surprising to Americans to hear this, when Iranian President Hassan Rouhani called on Pope Francis Tuesday, he did so as head of a state that has enjoyed diplomatic relations with the Vatican for much longer than the United States, and arguably representing a strategic partnership that’s almost as important as Washington.
Iran and the Holy See established full diplomatic ties in 1954, 30 years before the United States did so in 1984 under Ronald Reagan, and the bond has remained uninterrupted ever since, even during the Iranian Revolution and the US hostage crisis.
Iran and the Holy See established full diplomatic ties in 1954, 30 years before the United States did so in 1984 under Ronald Reagan, and the bond has remained uninterrupted ever since, even during the Iranian Revolution and the US hostage crisis.
Pope meets with Rouhani; Vatican says Iran now called on to combat terrorism
Vatican Says Iran Now Called On to Combat Terrorism. - The New York Times: Pope Francis met with the Iranian president Tuesday, joining in a cordial discussion which touched on the recent nuclear accord and Iran's role in the region.
President Hassan Rouhani met first with Francis, privately for 40 minutes, and later with other officials.
The Vatican in a statement said the conversation delved into the nuclear accord recently taking effect and "the important role that Iran was called to play" to combat terrorism along with other countries in the region.
Iran was also urged to help fight arms trafficking, the Vatican said.
President Hassan Rouhani met first with Francis, privately for 40 minutes, and later with other officials.
The Vatican in a statement said the conversation delved into the nuclear accord recently taking effect and "the important role that Iran was called to play" to combat terrorism along with other countries in the region.
Iran was also urged to help fight arms trafficking, the Vatican said.
Pro-lifers, don't be fooled. Trump will dump you just like he dumped Ivana and Marla...
Will Pro-Lifers for Trump Get Dumped — Like Ivana and Marla? | The StreamJONESZMIRAK: “If he’ll cheat on her, he’ll cheat on you,” is what Southern mothers tell their daughters, warning them that stealing away a woman’s husband isn’t just gravely immoral. It also means you’re as dumb as a box of rocks. A man who proves that he’s willing to be unfaithful this time is pretty much promising you that he’ll be unfaithful next time, when you’re the victim. The only safe response to a man like this is Carrie Underwood’s: “The next time he cheats/it won’t be on me.”
2016 Message for Lent: “I desire mercy, and not sacrifice”
Full Text of Pope Francis' 2016 Message for Lent |Blogs | NCRegister.comCOATOFARMS: The mystery of divine mercy is revealed in the history of the covenant between God and his people Israel. God shows himself ever rich in mercy, ever ready to treat his people with deep tenderness and compassion, especially at those tragic moments when infidelity ruptures the bond of the covenant, which then needs to be ratified more firmly in justice and truth. Here is a true love story, in which God plays the role of the betrayed father and husband, while Israel plays the unfaithful child and bride.
Hobbit or hermit? Why not be both?
Hobbit or Hermit? Why Not Be Both? |Blogs | NCRegister.comLONGENECKER: I’ve given up on the pile of new books on my table screaming for attention, and in these winter nights turned to my old favorite: The Lord of the� Rings.
�
As I’m going on the heroic hobbit quest with Frodo and Sam, I am feeling a double yearning that I suspect is pretty much universal, and that is to be both a hobbit and a hermit.
�
Give me the hobbit’s life of adventure. I want to shrug on my backpack, pick up my stick and set off on the open road. I want to sleep rough with nothing but the freedom of the quest. Give me dragons to fight and giants to joust with. I’ll set off with a gang of rogues dwarves or a waiting king. It doesn’t much matter. I’ll take the ring to Mordor even though I do not know the way.
�
As I’m going on the heroic hobbit quest with Frodo and Sam, I am feeling a double yearning that I suspect is pretty much universal, and that is to be both a hobbit and a hermit.
�
Give me the hobbit’s life of adventure. I want to shrug on my backpack, pick up my stick and set off on the open road. I want to sleep rough with nothing but the freedom of the quest. Give me dragons to fight and giants to joust with. I’ll set off with a gang of rogues dwarves or a waiting king. It doesn’t much matter. I’ll take the ring to Mordor even though I do not know the way.
The Oklahoma farm boy who grew up to be a martyr for Christ
The Oklahoma Farm Boy Who Grew Up to Be a Martyr for Christ |Blogs | NCRegister.comHAMILTON: Maria Scaperlanda has written a wonderful book that is destined to be a sourcebook for one of the 20th Century’s most profound Christian martyrs.
The Shepherd Who Did Not Run tells the story of Father Stanley Rother, an Oklahoma farm boy who grew up to be a martyr for Christ in the on-going economic wars that are raging around the globe to this day. He died on July 28, 1981, at the hands of what were probably right-wing government assassins in an isolated mission village in Atitlan, Guatemala.
The Shepherd Who Did Not Run tells the story of Father Stanley Rother, an Oklahoma farm boy who grew up to be a martyr for Christ in the on-going economic wars that are raging around the globe to this day. He died on July 28, 1981, at the hands of what were probably right-wing government assassins in an isolated mission village in Atitlan, Guatemala.
Always the last to know: On the glory of opaque self-awareness
Always the Last to Know: On the Glory of Opaque Self-Awareness |Blogs | NCRegister.comBECKER: At the time, I thought I was going to save the world. Young, single, male, and totally on fire for my faith, I was convinced I was bound for the seminary and a lifetime of service as a priest. (No need to thank me, God.)
First stop: World Youth Day. Denver. 1993. I’d already moved to Steubenville to start a pre-theologate program at Franciscan University, but my pastor, Fr. Ed Madden, asked me to consider a brief return to Boulder that August to assist with the pilgrim influx. “We could use the help,” he told me, and I readily agreed. Given everything Father had done for me, I was delighted for a chance to demonstrate my gratitude. Plus, it gave me an excuse to get in on the WYD furor, and I expected to chum around with other future seminarians.
First stop: World Youth Day. Denver. 1993. I’d already moved to Steubenville to start a pre-theologate program at Franciscan University, but my pastor, Fr. Ed Madden, asked me to consider a brief return to Boulder that August to assist with the pilgrim influx. “We could use the help,” he told me, and I readily agreed. Given everything Father had done for me, I was delighted for a chance to demonstrate my gratitude. Plus, it gave me an excuse to get in on the WYD furor, and I expected to chum around with other future seminarians.
Does ecumenism demand open Communion?
Does Ecumenism Demand Open Communion?LONGENECKER: The optimistic ecumenist suggests that the Catholic practice of barring Protestants from receiving communion is an obstacle on the path to unity.
A Lutheran pastor (who was a cradle Catholic) wrote to me the other day saying that he didn’t understand why anyone should be refused communion. The call to the Lord’s table, he opined, was not a human call, but the decision to fence off the Lord’s table was simply a human action, and one which he could not support in any way. If a person felt he or she wanted to come to the Lord who was he to say they should not?
A Lutheran pastor (who was a cradle Catholic) wrote to me the other day saying that he didn’t understand why anyone should be refused communion. The call to the Lord’s table, he opined, was not a human call, but the decision to fence off the Lord’s table was simply a human action, and one which he could not support in any way. If a person felt he or she wanted to come to the Lord who was he to say they should not?
Define “hundreds”, please: New York Times does epic job of dissin' 2016 March For Life
Define 'hundreds,' please: New York Times does epic job of dissin' 2016 March For Life — GetReligionMATTINGLY: It has become a media criticism tradition, one that dates back to ink-on-paper days before the Internet.
Every year, there is a giant March For Life in Washington, D.C., (and similar marches elsewhere) on or close to the anniversary of Roe v. Wade, often under weather conditions that are challenging at best. Rare is the year in which the march is not the largest demonstration of any kind in the nation's capital and it is often two, three or four times larger than any other.
Every year, there is a giant March For Life in Washington, D.C., (and similar marches elsewhere) on or close to the anniversary of Roe v. Wade, often under weather conditions that are challenging at best. Rare is the year in which the march is not the largest demonstration of any kind in the nation's capital and it is often two, three or four times larger than any other.
Taking a cue from The Onion, here are 12 steps to becoming a nun
12 Steps to Becoming a Nun (Satire) – Aleteia.orgNOBLE: The Eye of the Tiber is hands down the best place to go for Catholic satire.
But the writers at The Onion also manage to come out with some pretty funny pieces on the faith, (when they are not going over the line and racking up points for a long stint in purgatory).
Father Damian Ference is convinced that The Onion has a practicing Catholic working for them.
But the writers at The Onion also manage to come out with some pretty funny pieces on the faith, (when they are not going over the line and racking up points for a long stint in purgatory).
Father Damian Ference is convinced that The Onion has a practicing Catholic working for them.
The case for Latin: Why worship benefits from a sacred language
The Case for Latin: Why Worship Benefits From a Sacred Language | Philip KosloskiKOSLOSKI: We don’t have to understand or know any Latin to benefit from its use. Actually, it may even beneficial if we don’t know any Latin. For most of Salvation History the worship of God was veiled and few if any people ever saw what was going on in the liturgy. This was the case in the Jewish Temple and remained the case for centuries in the Catholic Church. Even today the use of an iconostasis is still an essential part of the Divine Liturgy. It frustrates our desire to know what is going on and places a barrier to our curiosity.
David Daleiden, creator of Planned Parenthood videos, indicted in Texas
Creator of Planned Parenthood videos indicted in Texas | TheHill: An investigation into Planned Parenthood took a bizarre twist on Monday after a grand jury brought charges against the pair of individuals claiming to expose the group instead.
A grand jury in Houston, Texas announced criminal charges against a pair of anti-abortion activists, David Daleiden and Sandra Merritt, for their roles in creating now-viral videos attacking Planned Parenthood, according to multiple local reports.
The jurors had spent two months reviewing undercover footage produced by Daleiden’s group, the Center for Medical Progress, at the request of Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick (R). �
A grand jury in Houston, Texas announced criminal charges against a pair of anti-abortion activists, David Daleiden and Sandra Merritt, for their roles in creating now-viral videos attacking Planned Parenthood, according to multiple local reports.
The jurors had spent two months reviewing undercover footage produced by Daleiden’s group, the Center for Medical Progress, at the request of Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick (R). �
Monday, January 25, 2016
3 warnings from John Paul II about the Iraq War that have all come true...
Conflict in the Middle East: Will the Work of Three Popes Inspire World Leadership? | Daily News | NCRegister.comGAETAN: In scanning the confusing array of conflict today in the Middle East and North Africa, one thing is certain: President George W. Bush should have listened to St. John Paul II, who beseeched his administration, and other Western leaders, not to invade Iraq in 2003.
The Holy See feared three things would happen: An invasion would destabilize the region; it would put 2,000-year-old Christian communities at grave, existential risk; and it would provoke Islamic extremism.
As then-Secretary of State Cardinal Angelo Sodano asked in 2003: “We want to say to America: Is it worth it to you? Won’t you have, afterward, decades of hostility in the Islamic world?”
And so, it has come to pass.
The Holy See feared three things would happen: An invasion would destabilize the region; it would put 2,000-year-old Christian communities at grave, existential risk; and it would provoke Islamic extremism.
As then-Secretary of State Cardinal Angelo Sodano asked in 2003: “We want to say to America: Is it worth it to you? Won’t you have, afterward, decades of hostility in the Islamic world?”
And so, it has come to pass.
Ecuadorean police save a tiny, terrified sloth in the middle of a highway
Ecuador Police Save a Tiny, Terrified Sloth on the Highway | Mental Floss: Police work can be tough, but sometimes it can also lead to adorable situations. Last week, transit police in Ecuador encountered the latter, when they were called to investigate a tiny sloth that found itself in a scary situation on the side of the highway. Unable to cross to safety, the petrified animal had resorted to clinging to a guard rail.
After rescuing the lost sloth, police brought it to a vet to check for potential injuries, where it was then cleared to return to its car-free home. Here are some pictures of the brave rescue mission. And check out the goofy mug on that sloth!
After rescuing the lost sloth, police brought it to a vet to check for potential injuries, where it was then cleared to return to its car-free home. Here are some pictures of the brave rescue mission. And check out the goofy mug on that sloth!
Here's how you can be certain that John wrote John
Here's How You Can Be Certain That John Wrote John |Blogs | NCRegister.comSHEA: Last time in this space we began to discuss some of the arguments put forward by those who reject the idea that the gospel of John is, in fact, authored by John the apostle, the companion of Jesus and an eyewitness of his resurrection. Let's look at some more of them.
Another criticism of Johannine authorship turns the very sophistication of the gospel against it. Some declare that John bar-Zebedee, a mere fisherman, could not have been an educated Greek-speaking theological genius and therefore could not have written such a theologically sophisticated work.
Another criticism of Johannine authorship turns the very sophistication of the gospel against it. Some declare that John bar-Zebedee, a mere fisherman, could not have been an educated Greek-speaking theological genius and therefore could not have written such a theologically sophisticated work.
How “Star Wars” changed the universe of my imagination
And Sometimes Tea: How "Star Wars" changed the universe of my imaginationMANNING: We finally caught up with most people and went and saw the new Star Wars movie last night. I enjoyed it very much; but this post isn't really about the movie--well, that movie, anyway.
One bright day, when I was eight years old, my mom told us "older kids" (and kids in big families know those divisions--the "older kids," the "younger kids," and that one kid in the middle who belongs to whichever group it best suits his present interests to be in) that Dad would be taking us out for a special treat. I ran upstairs and got dressed in the outfit that seemed the most suitable for a special event--my favorite dress, an ankle-length prairie dress of the sort that was popular in the 1970s, part "Holly Hobbie" (tm), part Laura Ingalls, and all, in the mind of an eight-year-old, awesome.
I remember now that Mom actually tried to talk me into putting on something a bit more casual than this dress which I usually wore to church, but she gave up; I was determined. To me, the dress reflected one of my current heroines: Laura Ingalls. I had moved on from an early diet of Nancy Drew mysteries to immerse myself in the books about Laura and her family, and even though the TV show wasn't all that much like the books I liked it too. The yellow paper covers of my Laura Ingalls books were already showing signs of wear, and I read them over and over again, sure that nowhere out there would be any kind of story capable of capturing my imagination quite so much.
One bright day, when I was eight years old, my mom told us "older kids" (and kids in big families know those divisions--the "older kids," the "younger kids," and that one kid in the middle who belongs to whichever group it best suits his present interests to be in) that Dad would be taking us out for a special treat. I ran upstairs and got dressed in the outfit that seemed the most suitable for a special event--my favorite dress, an ankle-length prairie dress of the sort that was popular in the 1970s, part "Holly Hobbie" (tm), part Laura Ingalls, and all, in the mind of an eight-year-old, awesome.
I remember now that Mom actually tried to talk me into putting on something a bit more casual than this dress which I usually wore to church, but she gave up; I was determined. To me, the dress reflected one of my current heroines: Laura Ingalls. I had moved on from an early diet of Nancy Drew mysteries to immerse myself in the books about Laura and her family, and even though the TV show wasn't all that much like the books I liked it too. The yellow paper covers of my Laura Ingalls books were already showing signs of wear, and I read them over and over again, sure that nowhere out there would be any kind of story capable of capturing my imagination quite so much.
How to alienate family and influence people
Disagreeing within the Family | Catholic AnswersKEATING: “How to win friends and influence people” has a flip side: “How to lose friends.” One of the easiest ways is by sticking to one’s convictions—or, at least, by sticking to them while making them known. There can’t be many readers who have never lost a friend or, at least, annoyed someone dear by maintaining a principle and conforming their actions to it.
Your Uncle Filbert abandoned his wife, got a civil divorce, and now is intending to marry someone else. Do you attend the wedding to please him, even though, by doing so, you may give others the impression that you see nothing wrong in what he is proposing to do (enter a state of adultery)? Or do you decline to attend on principle, knowing that your relationship with him may be damaged?
Your Uncle Filbert abandoned his wife, got a civil divorce, and now is intending to marry someone else. Do you attend the wedding to please him, even though, by doing so, you may give others the impression that you see nothing wrong in what he is proposing to do (enter a state of adultery)? Or do you decline to attend on principle, knowing that your relationship with him may be damaged?
A biblical warning on the nature of government
A Biblical Warning on the Nature of Government |Blogs | NCRegister.comPOPE: There is a remarkable passage in the Old Testament that speaks to the issue of centralized government. The portrait painted is not a flattering one. Generally speaking, the Scriptures do not comment much on secular government other than to note its existence and to prescribe a combination of support, endurance, and prayer.
But at a critical point, the prophet Samuel sets forth a litany of woes that come from centralized ruling authority (a king in this particular case). His remarks surely resonate today in the era of large, centralized, secular government. More on this in a moment, but first a little background
But at a critical point, the prophet Samuel sets forth a litany of woes that come from centralized ruling authority (a king in this particular case). His remarks surely resonate today in the era of large, centralized, secular government. More on this in a moment, but first a little background
Francis calls on America’s ultimate Catholic anti-celebrity
Francis calls on America’s ultimate Catholic anti-celebrity | CruxALLEN: An old joke about being the priest-secretary for a Catholic bishop has it that the job description boils down to this: “Always get between the bishop and a bullet, and never get between the bishop and a television camera!”
There may be plenty of publicity-hungry prelates for whom that line fits like a glove, but US Cardinal James Harvey is definitely not among them. Even if his secretary were inclined to insulate Harvey from attention, he wouldn’t have much to do, because Harvey does a masterful job of it all by himself.
There may be plenty of publicity-hungry prelates for whom that line fits like a glove, but US Cardinal James Harvey is definitely not among them. Even if his secretary were inclined to insulate Harvey from attention, he wouldn’t have much to do, because Harvey does a masterful job of it all by himself.
Updated: Here's some video from the Blizzard Mass on the Pennsylvania Turnpike
March for Life Group Stranded in Storm, Prays Mass on Altar Made of Snow—UPDATED WITH VIDEO – Aleteia.org: You can see more images here. �And check out the video from one of the stranded groups, just posted on Facebook...
Pope will go to Sweden for Reformation anniversary, Vatican announces
Pope will go to Sweden for Reformation anniversary, Vatican announces :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): Pope Francis will take part in an ecumenical ceremony in Lund, Sweden, to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation, the Vatican announced Monday.
The event will “will highlight the solid ecumenical developments between Catholics and Lutherans and the joint gifts received through dialogue,” according to a joint press release by the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity (PCPCU) and the World Lutheran Federation (LWF).
The event will “will highlight the solid ecumenical developments between Catholics and Lutherans and the joint gifts received through dialogue,” according to a joint press release by the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity (PCPCU) and the World Lutheran Federation (LWF).
The best photos of the famous Pennsylvania Turnpike Mass of 2016
The Best Photos of the Historic Turnpike Mass of 2016! | ChurchPOPMILLEGAN: As you may have heard, a Catholic pro-life student group going home after the March for Life got stuck on the highway.
With tons of time and not much to do, they did something incredible: they build an altar out of snow and had Mass on the side of the highway! Some people nicknamed the spot the St. John Paul the Great hillside chapel.
Bad weather can’t stop the Mass!
With tons of time and not much to do, they did something incredible: they build an altar out of snow and had Mass on the side of the highway! Some people nicknamed the spot the St. John Paul the Great hillside chapel.
Bad weather can’t stop the Mass!
Sunday, January 24, 2016
Pope's Sunday Angelus: "Evangelize the poor: that is your mission"
Evangelize the poor: that is your mission, Pope says :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): Pope Francis centered his Angelus address this Sunday on what it means to evangelize the poor, and how this is the mission of the Church.
“Evangelize the poor: this is the mission of Jesus; this is also the mission of the Church, and of all the baptized in the Church,” the Pope said Jan. 24 to the crowds in Saint Peter's Square. “To be a Christian and to be a missionary is the same thing.”
“What does it mean to evangelize the poor? It means to be close to them, to serve them, to free them from oppression, and all this in the name and with the Spirit of Christ, because he is the Gospel of God, he is the mercy of God, and he is the liberation of God.”
“It is he who has made himself poor to enrich us with his poverty,” the pontiff said.
“Evangelize the poor: this is the mission of Jesus; this is also the mission of the Church, and of all the baptized in the Church,” the Pope said Jan. 24 to the crowds in Saint Peter's Square. “To be a Christian and to be a missionary is the same thing.”
“What does it mean to evangelize the poor? It means to be close to them, to serve them, to free them from oppression, and all this in the name and with the Spirit of Christ, because he is the Gospel of God, he is the mercy of God, and he is the liberation of God.”
“It is he who has made himself poor to enrich us with his poverty,” the pontiff said.
Here are St. Thomas Aquinas' 5 remedies against sadness...
Five Remedies Against Sadness - Opus Dei: On certain days we have all been sad, days when we have been unable to overcome an inner torpor or depression that weighs down on us and makes it difficult to interact with others. Is there a trick for overcoming sorrow and recovering our smile? Saint Thomas Aquinas suggests five remedies against sadness that have proven surprisingly effective (Summa Theologiae, I-II, q. 38).
1. The first remedy is granting ourselves something we like. It’s as though the famous theologian had already intuited seven centuries ago that “chocolate is an antidepressant.” This might seem a bit materialistic, but no one would deny that a tough day can end well with a good beer. It’s hard to refute this by citing the Gospel, since our Lord took part joyfully in banquets and feasts, and both before and after his Resurrection enjoyed the noble and good things in life. One of the Psalms even says that wine gladdens the human heart (although the Bible also clearly condemns getting drunk).
1. The first remedy is granting ourselves something we like. It’s as though the famous theologian had already intuited seven centuries ago that “chocolate is an antidepressant.” This might seem a bit materialistic, but no one would deny that a tough day can end well with a good beer. It’s hard to refute this by citing the Gospel, since our Lord took part joyfully in banquets and feasts, and both before and after his Resurrection enjoyed the noble and good things in life. One of the Psalms even says that wine gladdens the human heart (although the Bible also clearly condemns getting drunk).
A handy list of 77 expiration dates that you should know
77 Expiration Dates That You Should Know | TIME: A handy keep-or-toss guide to 77 foods, beauty products, and household goods...
Six-legged giant finds secret hideaway, hides for 80 years
Six-Legged Giant Finds Secret Hideaway, Hides For 80 Years : Krulwich Wonders... : NPR: They call it "Ball's Pyramid." It's what's left of an old volcano that emerged from the sea about 7 million years ago. A British naval officer named Ball was the first European to see it in 1788. It sits off Australia, in the South Pacific. It is extremely narrow, 1,844 feet high, and it sits alone.
What's more, for years this place had a secret. At 225 feet above sea level, hanging on the rock surface, there is a small, spindly little bush, and under that bush, a few years ago, two climbers, working in the dark, found something totally improbable hiding in the soil below. How it got there, we still don't know.
What's more, for years this place had a secret. At 225 feet above sea level, hanging on the rock surface, there is a small, spindly little bush, and under that bush, a few years ago, two climbers, working in the dark, found something totally improbable hiding in the soil below. How it got there, we still don't know.
Saturday, January 23, 2016
On the wonder of the Word of God: A homily for the Third Sunday of the Year
On The Wonder of the Word of God – A Homily for the Third Sunday of the Year - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: The gospel for this Sunday is continued next week, so I will postpone the analysis of it until then. Instead, I will focus on the first reading, from Nehemiah 8. It is a wonderful meditation on the glory and wonder of the Word of God and it deserves our attention.
The background of the text is that in 587 BC, Israel had been conquered by the Babylonians and the survivors of the war were led into exile in Babylon. After 80 years the Persians conquered the Babylonians. Cyrus, King of Persia, permitted the Jews to return to the Promised Land. Sadly, only a small number chose to return and rebuild the ruined land and city. Among them was Nehemiah, a Jew and a royal official, who led the small band back and oversaw the rebuilding of Jerusalem.
The background of the text is that in 587 BC, Israel had been conquered by the Babylonians and the survivors of the war were led into exile in Babylon. After 80 years the Persians conquered the Babylonians. Cyrus, King of Persia, permitted the Jews to return to the Promised Land. Sadly, only a small number chose to return and rebuild the ruined land and city. Among them was Nehemiah, a Jew and a royal official, who led the small band back and oversaw the rebuilding of Jerusalem.
12 things St. Zelie Martin taught me about sainthood as a mother
12 Things St. Zelie Martin Taught Me About Sainthood As a Mother | ChurchPOPSPENCER: When I first learned of the case for canonization of Louis and Zelie Martin, the parents of St. Therese of Lisieux, I was very intrigued.
This couple both wanted to be religious, but met each other and got married instead. They had nine children together, lost four of them at a young age, and worked together for the family income with a lace making business. Zelie made the lace and managed the workers and Louis ran the business side of it. A Call to a Deeper Love is a wonderful volume containing 218 letters of St. Zelie and 16 of St. Louis. Reading Zelie’s letters, mostly to her brother, sister-in-law, and daughter Pauline is like reading a 19th century mom-blog.
And that is one of the reasons they are so great! Zelie recounts her daily life in her letters, and I realized that it very well might be possible to be a saint in the 21st century modern world.
This couple both wanted to be religious, but met each other and got married instead. They had nine children together, lost four of them at a young age, and worked together for the family income with a lace making business. Zelie made the lace and managed the workers and Louis ran the business side of it. A Call to a Deeper Love is a wonderful volume containing 218 letters of St. Zelie and 16 of St. Louis. Reading Zelie’s letters, mostly to her brother, sister-in-law, and daughter Pauline is like reading a 19th century mom-blog.
And that is one of the reasons they are so great! Zelie recounts her daily life in her letters, and I realized that it very well might be possible to be a saint in the 21st century modern world.
What journalists get wrong about social science, according to 20 scientists
What journalists get wrong about social science, according to 20 scientists - Vox: There's a constant conflict between social scientists and the reporters who cover them. It's derived from "a fundamental tension between the media's desire for novelty and the scientific method," as Sanjay Srivastava, who researches personality at the University of Oregon, tells me.
He's right. Journalists have a need for digestible headlines that convey simple, accessible, and preferably novel lessons. The scientific method stresses a slow accumulation of knowledge, nuance, and doubt. "By the time some piece of scientific knowledge is solid enough to be worth spending money and changing lives over, the idea should not be 'new' anymore," Srivastava says.
He's right. Journalists have a need for digestible headlines that convey simple, accessible, and preferably novel lessons. The scientific method stresses a slow accumulation of knowledge, nuance, and doubt. "By the time some piece of scientific knowledge is solid enough to be worth spending money and changing lives over, the idea should not be 'new' anymore," Srivastava says.
Exorcism, superstition and the supernatural
Exorcism, Superstition and the Supernatural |Blogs | NCRegister.comLONGENECKER: One of the most popular types of horror movie is the exorcism story. Ever since the groundbreaking shocker The Exorcist Hollywood has produced one satanic screamer after another.
�
The reason exorcism films are popular is because it is one of the few phenomena of religious life where the invisible becomes visible, and film makers need action and something to see. That’s why movies are called “motion pictures.”
�
Exorcism movies are popular, but when you see one what is your reaction? Will you respond with superstition or supernaturalism? Superstition is any sort of belief or behavior which is magical. A magical understanding of religion is primitive, immature and dangerous. It involves sympathetic magic or an irrational link between certain behaviors and their outcomes. It means, in some way, we are trying to manipulate things to produce an outcome that we desire.
�
The reason exorcism films are popular is because it is one of the few phenomena of religious life where the invisible becomes visible, and film makers need action and something to see. That’s why movies are called “motion pictures.”
�
Exorcism movies are popular, but when you see one what is your reaction? Will you respond with superstition or supernaturalism? Superstition is any sort of belief or behavior which is magical. A magical understanding of religion is primitive, immature and dangerous. It involves sympathetic magic or an irrational link between certain behaviors and their outcomes. It means, in some way, we are trying to manipulate things to produce an outcome that we desire.
6 games you're probably playing wrong
6 Games You're Probably Playing Wrong | Mental Floss: From Monopoly to blackjack, you might be surprised to learn that you've been playing some of the world's most popular games wrong all along. Whether it's by misinterpreting the actual rules or misunderstanding the principles of how to win, here are six popular games where mistakes are common.
Friday, January 22, 2016
Monster storm can't keep massive crowds from March for Life
Monster storm can't keep massive crowds from March for Life :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): Despite weather forecasts calling for what might end up being the worst blizzard in over a century, tens of thousands flooded the nation’s capital Friday to support the dignity of life.
Rosalie Rwamakuba, a 20-year-old woman from upstate New York, told CNA that she wants “to march for those who can’t.”
“I’ve been wanting to come on the March for Life for a long time. I think it is a really important cause, because the value of life is nothing nowadays,” she said. “I think we should take a stand.”
Rosalie Rwamakuba, a 20-year-old woman from upstate New York, told CNA that she wants “to march for those who can’t.”
“I’ve been wanting to come on the March for Life for a long time. I think it is a really important cause, because the value of life is nothing nowadays,” she said. “I think we should take a stand.”
Saudi Arabia’s top cleric issues fatwa against chess; no word yet on Hungry Hungry Hippos...
Saudi Arabia’s Top Cleric Forbids Chess, but Players Maneuver - The New York Times: Saudi Arabia’s top cleric has declared the playing of chess “forbidden,” calling it a waste of time and money that creates hatred between players.
In a fatwa, or religious decree, issued in response to a question from a caller to a Saudi television show, Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh said that the game was “the work of Satan,” like alcohol and gambling, despite its long history in the Middle East. Chess is played across the Arab world.
A member of the Saudi Chess Association, Musa BinThaily, took to Twitter on Thursday to defend the game, saying that it had nothing to do with gambling and that the association had held 70 events in the kingdom. He posted photos of Saudi players at the group’s events, including one that showed members of the group posing with a prince from the United Arab Emirates.
In a fatwa, or religious decree, issued in response to a question from a caller to a Saudi television show, Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh said that the game was “the work of Satan,” like alcohol and gambling, despite its long history in the Middle East. Chess is played across the Arab world.
A member of the Saudi Chess Association, Musa BinThaily, took to Twitter on Thursday to defend the game, saying that it had nothing to do with gambling and that the association had held 70 events in the kingdom. He posted photos of Saudi players at the group’s events, including one that showed members of the group posing with a prince from the United Arab Emirates.
A trip, a fall, and a whole new life
Syrian Refugee Kicked In Hungary Starts a New Life in Spain - SPIEGEL ONLINE: A short, stocky man in a brown jacket is running through a field along the Hungarian-Serbian border, not far from the town of Röszke. In his left hand, he is carrying a cloth shopping bag with the German words, "Bio macht schön" ("organic makes you beautiful"). In his other arm, he is carrying his crying, 7-year-old son, Said. Sewn into the man's underwear is $600. His name is Osama Abdul Mohsen, 53, and he is a physical education teacher and soccer coach by trade, and a Syrian refugee by circumstance.
March for Life 2016: Make your life a Nativity set, Cardinal Dolan tells pro-life marchers
Make your life a Nativity set, Cardinal Dolan tells pro-life marchers :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): Pro-lifers must make their lives a Nativity scene where they provide a welcoming witness and� see Christ in the faces of the unborn, Cardinal Timothy Dolan of New York said at the Jan. 21 March for Life vigil Mass in Washington, D.C.
�
“In the tiny baby, born or pre-born, we see the infant Jesus; in that child’s mother, especially when confused, scared, and hopeless, we see Mary at the crib of Bethlehem,” he said in his homily.
�
“In the tiny baby, born or pre-born, we see the infant Jesus; in that child’s mother, especially when confused, scared, and hopeless, we see Mary at the crib of Bethlehem,” he said in his homily.
As World Communications Day rolls out, the Genius Bar comes to the Pope
Whispers in the Loggia: As Comm. Day Message Rolls Out, The Genius Bar Comes to The PopePALMO: While today was long scheduled to bring the traditional release of the Pope's message for World Communications Day, as he ever tends to do, Francis suddenly gave the news something of a Turbo Boost: a week after granting the first private audience in memory to a leading corporate executive – the Google chief Eric Schmidt – the noontime Holy See briefing announced that the pontiff met this morning with the Apple CEO Tim Cook.
Unless Vatican diplomacy's amazingly been called upon for mediation between the oft-warring Silicon Valley titans, the dots look to be lining up for something very interesting in terms of the church's digital engagement. Yet even beyond the massive institutional significance of the Roman pontiff receiving the head of the world's most valuable company in the Vatican – a moment without precedent in itself – given Cook's 2014 disclosure of his sexuality, today's encounter appears to be the first time an openly gay person has ever been hosted for a full-tilt private audience in the Papal Apartment.
Unless Vatican diplomacy's amazingly been called upon for mediation between the oft-warring Silicon Valley titans, the dots look to be lining up for something very interesting in terms of the church's digital engagement. Yet even beyond the massive institutional significance of the Roman pontiff receiving the head of the world's most valuable company in the Vatican – a moment without precedent in itself – given Cook's 2014 disclosure of his sexuality, today's encounter appears to be the first time an openly gay person has ever been hosted for a full-tilt private audience in the Papal Apartment.
How to avoid having idolatrous friendships
Avoiding Idolatrous Friendships: Lessons from Burke and Claudel - Crisis Magazine: Those religious who governed the West’s seminaries and monasteries before Vatican II stressed—whether specifically as part of their orders’ constitution, or on a broader basis—the dangers involved with “particular friendships.” Contrary to what is often supposed, these dangers did not exclusively concern homoerotic attraction, never mind outright homosexual affairs. Nor were such cautions made in a spirit of trying to deny ordinary human preferences for Individual A rather than Individual B.
In certain instances the ruling went too far. Should a particular house of formation happen to have, as its principal authority figure, a boor with Jansenist grievances against the world, the ruling could be in practice downright harmful. That misfortune, nevertheless, did not and could not invalidate the soundness of the general principle behind the ruling’s establishment. How sound the principle remained did not grow fully obvious till after the ruling had been comprehensively junked: when seminaries turned more and more often into dumping grounds for predatory perverts, with what consequences even the stupidest Western Catholic has known since at least 2002 and the exposés of Boston’s horrors.
In certain instances the ruling went too far. Should a particular house of formation happen to have, as its principal authority figure, a boor with Jansenist grievances against the world, the ruling could be in practice downright harmful. That misfortune, nevertheless, did not and could not invalidate the soundness of the general principle behind the ruling’s establishment. How sound the principle remained did not grow fully obvious till after the ruling had been comprehensively junked: when seminaries turned more and more often into dumping grounds for predatory perverts, with what consequences even the stupidest Western Catholic has known since at least 2002 and the exposés of Boston’s horrors.
Abortion, the sanctity of life, and movies
Abortion, the sanctity of life, and movies | CruxGREYDANUS: Forty-three years after Roe v. Wade, Americans remain about as deeply conflicted over abortion as ever.
The popularity of the labels “pro-life” and “pro-choice” wax and wane, according to polls, but even “pro-choice” Americans generally support abortion only up to a point — typically not beyond the first trimester.
The nation’s divided conscience on this subject is reflected on the screen. For some time, abortion rights advocates have expressed frustration over the cinematic problematizing of abortion and general preference for stories about expectant mothers who choose to give birth or conveniently miscarry (or, particularly in older films, even pay with their lives for attempting or even contemplating abortion).
The popularity of the labels “pro-life” and “pro-choice” wax and wane, according to polls, but even “pro-choice” Americans generally support abortion only up to a point — typically not beyond the first trimester.
The nation’s divided conscience on this subject is reflected on the screen. For some time, abortion rights advocates have expressed frustration over the cinematic problematizing of abortion and general preference for stories about expectant mothers who choose to give birth or conveniently miscarry (or, particularly in older films, even pay with their lives for attempting or even contemplating abortion).
Pope seems to hint at no sweeping change on divorced, remarried
Pope seems to hint at no sweeping change on divorced, remarried | CruxALLEN: Imagine that a high-profile, deeply controversial court case in which the president is involved were before the US Supreme Court, and, at the very same time, the president was scheduled to deliver an address before an audience of judges touching on the issues raised in the case.
To say that people would be hanging on his every word is, obviously, an understatement.
Something of that sort happened on Friday, as Pope Francis gave his annual address to the judges of the Roman Rota, the Vatican’s main working court, to mark the opening of the judicial year.
To say that people would be hanging on his every word is, obviously, an understatement.
Something of that sort happened on Friday, as Pope Francis gave his annual address to the judges of the Roman Rota, the Vatican’s main working court, to mark the opening of the judicial year.
She’s a Tertiary? He’s an Oblate? What is that about?
She’s a Tertiary? He’s an Oblate? What Is That About? – Aleteia.orgSCALIA: Not long ago, someone on Facebook messaged me: “If I didn’t know you were OSB, I’d think you were OP.”
The person is a Lay Dominican — what used to be called a Dominican Tertiary (tertiary referring to a “third order” within the Order of Preachers (OP). Nowadays, the language has been simplified, but I looked at the message and wondered what people would think about these letters being attached to laypeople, who are neither monks in cloister, nor conventual friars.
The person is a Lay Dominican — what used to be called a Dominican Tertiary (tertiary referring to a “third order” within the Order of Preachers (OP). Nowadays, the language has been simplified, but I looked at the message and wondered what people would think about these letters being attached to laypeople, who are neither monks in cloister, nor conventual friars.
Pope's message for Communications Day: “Communicate truth with love, meekness and mercy”
Pope Francis: Communicate Truth With Love, Meekness and Mercy |Blogs | NCRegister.comPENTIN: Only truth spoken in love can touch sinful hearts, but harsh and moralistic words and actions risk alienating those we wish to lead to “conversion and freedom”, Pope Francis has said in his Message for the 50th World Day of Social Communications.
In the message, entitled “Communication and Mercy: A Fruitful Encounter” and published today ahead of the World Day of Social Communications on May 8th, the Pope stressed it is the faithful's “task to admonish those who err and to denounce evil and injustice” in order to set “victims free” and raise up “those who have fallen.”
In the message, entitled “Communication and Mercy: A Fruitful Encounter” and published today ahead of the World Day of Social Communications on May 8th, the Pope stressed it is the faithful's “task to admonish those who err and to denounce evil and injustice” in order to set “victims free” and raise up “those who have fallen.”
Politics is dead: This year, avoid the quadrennial silliness...
Politics is dead: This year, avoid the quadrennial silliness. | Catholic CultureMIRUS: 2016 is a presidential election year in America. Most citizens will fasten their attention on the Republican and Democratic candidates. A minor third-party candidate may emerge. Even those with outstanding Catholic values will invent some reason for insisting it is absolutely essential to elect Candidate X. A large number will deny that any other conclusion is morally possible. And nearly everyone will denounce any failure to vote as an abandonment of both responsibility and hope.
Serious Catholics who pour time, energy and money into the process of getting their preferred candidate elected will—once again—waste their precious resources. The candidate anointed by our secular high culture will once again coast to victory. Those who recognize either the natural law, Divine Revelation, or both, will end up disappointed. Worse still, in four more years the repetitive proof that their efforts make no discernible difference will be forgotten. Sadly, the quadrennial silly season continues to cycle around. It is upon us now.
Serious Catholics who pour time, energy and money into the process of getting their preferred candidate elected will—once again—waste their precious resources. The candidate anointed by our secular high culture will once again coast to victory. Those who recognize either the natural law, Divine Revelation, or both, will end up disappointed. Worse still, in four more years the repetitive proof that their efforts make no discernible difference will be forgotten. Sadly, the quadrennial silly season continues to cycle around. It is upon us now.
Atheist Penn Jillette doesn't respect Christians who don't evangelize
Atheist Penn Jillette Doesn't Respect Christians Who Don't Evangelize | ChurchPOPMILLEGAN: A few years ago, Jillette recorded a short video about someone who came to talk to him after one of his magic shows. He said the guy was about his age and had participated in one of the acts as an audience member.
The man complimented Jillette on the show, then said, “I brought this for you.” The man held up a small book. It was a New Testament with the Psalms, something that could fit in a person’s pocket.
“I wrote in the front of it,” the man said, “and I wanted you to have this.” The man explained he was a businessman and not crazy.
The man complimented Jillette on the show, then said, “I brought this for you.” The man held up a small book. It was a New Testament with the Psalms, something that could fit in a person’s pocket.
“I wrote in the front of it,” the man said, “and I wanted you to have this.” The man explained he was a businessman and not crazy.
Thursday, January 21, 2016
7 things most people think are true about Roe v. Wade that are totally false
7 Things Most People Think are True About Roe vs. Wade That are Totally False | LifeNews.com: A recent special edition of TIME Magazine headlined ‘The Supreme Court Decisions That Changed America’ makes a surprising admission for the world’s most-read newsweekly: “Like abolition in the 1850s or the war in Vietnam in the 1960s, Roe v. Wade divided the U.S. into two bitterly opposed camps.”
Abandoned Checkpoints: Photographer documents Europe's forgotten borders
Abandoned Checkpoints: Photographer documents Europe's forgotten borders | Creative Boom: With everything that's been happening in Europe lately and the EU struggling to cope with the biggest wave of migrants and refugees its ever known, it's interesting to discover Polish photographer Josef Schulz's Übergang series – meaning Crossing – which explores abandoned military checkpoints across the continent.
Uncovering every corner of Europe, Schultz digitally fades the background surrounding each redundant station as though they are shrouded in fog, allowing these forgotten borders to stand out and make an impact.
Uncovering every corner of Europe, Schultz digitally fades the background surrounding each redundant station as though they are shrouded in fog, allowing these forgotten borders to stand out and make an impact.
Computer at University of Missouri discovers largest known prime number
Largest known prime number discovered in Missouri - BBC News: The largest known prime number has been discovered by a computer at a university in Missouri in the US.
Prime numbers - such as two, three, five and seven - are divisible only by themselves and one, and play an important role in computer encryption.
The new prime is more than 22 million digits long, five million longer than the previous largest known prime.
Primes this large could prove useful to computing in the future.
Prime numbers - such as two, three, five and seven - are divisible only by themselves and one, and play an important role in computer encryption.
The new prime is more than 22 million digits long, five million longer than the previous largest known prime.
Primes this large could prove useful to computing in the future.
Did John write John? The evidence is clear...
Did John Write John? The Evidence is Clear. |Blogs | NCRegister.comSHEA: A common notion floating around in Pop Culture is that "modern scholarship" has somehow proven the Gospel of John is more or less unhistorical fantasy written by a pseudonymous author.
Here’s the facts: the tradition of the Church, supported by the unbroken line of patristic testimony, as well as internal evidence from the text itself, is that the gospel is rooted in the testimony of the Apostle John, son of Zebedee.
St. Irenaeus tells us (circa 180 A.D.) that the fourth gospel was published by the Apostle John, the teacher of his own mentor Polycarp. Numerous other witnesses in the second and third centuries corroborate this basic witness. In addition, various elements within the gospel strongly suggest John as the author.
Here’s the facts: the tradition of the Church, supported by the unbroken line of patristic testimony, as well as internal evidence from the text itself, is that the gospel is rooted in the testimony of the Apostle John, son of Zebedee.
St. Irenaeus tells us (circa 180 A.D.) that the fourth gospel was published by the Apostle John, the teacher of his own mentor Polycarp. Numerous other witnesses in the second and third centuries corroborate this basic witness. In addition, various elements within the gospel strongly suggest John as the author.
Pro-woman is pro-life, and pro-life is pro-woman
Pro-Woman is Pro-Life, and Pro-Life is Pro-Woman |Blogs | NCRegister.comPAVONE: Almost a year ago, I had the honor of meeting a young woman named Andrea. Months earlier, on learning she was pregnant, she had taken the first drug in the RU-486 abortion regimen, and immediately regretted her decision. Racing against the clock, she found a doctor about an hour away from her home in New Jersey who would immediately begin a reversal protocol that stops the starvation of the baby. Her son Gabriel was born healthy on Dec. 31, 2014.
When you get sick, would you rather have “prayers” or “warm thoughts”
When You Get Sick, Do You Want “Prayers” or “Warm Thoughts”? |Blogs | NCRegister.comSCHIFFER: You are at death's door. You're battling a terminal illness, or facing exploratory surgery, or you just have a miserable head cold that confines you to bed with a heating pad and a big box of Kleenex. So which do you prefer from your friends? Warm thoughts or prayers? Pray for me, please. And I promise to pray, also, for you.
Meet five Catholic heroes of science
CatholicHerald.co.uk � Meet five Catholic heroes of science: In a previous post I discussed the life and work of Georges Lemaitre, the Belgian Jesuit and cosmologist. Lemaitre’s work and faith challenges the idea, proposed by New Atheism, that religion and science are in conflict. He is not alone as Catholic Church has raised up many scientific pioneers whose stories deserve to be better known, especially in the context of the New Evangelisation and Catholic apologetics. Here are a few examples to consider.
Iraq's oldest Christian monastery destroyed by ISIS
Iraq's oldest Christian monastery destroyed by Islamic State - BBC News: Satellite images confirm that the oldest Christian monastery in Iraq has been destroyed by the jihadist group Islamic State (IS).
St Elijah's stood on a hill near the northern city of Mosul for 1,400 years.
But analysts said the images, obtained by the Associated Press, suggested it had been demolished in late 2014, soon after IS seized the city.
A Catholic priest from Mosul warned that its Christian history was "being barbarically levelled".
"We see it as an attempt to expel us from Iraq, eliminating and finishing our existence in this land," said Father Paul Thabit Habib, who now lives in Kurdish-administered Irbil.
St Elijah's stood on a hill near the northern city of Mosul for 1,400 years.
But analysts said the images, obtained by the Associated Press, suggested it had been demolished in late 2014, soon after IS seized the city.
A Catholic priest from Mosul warned that its Christian history was "being barbarically levelled".
"We see it as an attempt to expel us from Iraq, eliminating and finishing our existence in this land," said Father Paul Thabit Habib, who now lives in Kurdish-administered Irbil.
Even (most) Catholic headlines are misleading about the washing of feet
Servant and Steward: Even Catholic headlines are misleading about the washing of feetZEHNLE: The Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments released today a decree signed on 6 January 2016 by His Eminence Robert Cardinal Sarah, Prefect of the same Congregation, revising the text of the rubrics of the Roman Missal regarding whose feet may be washed during the Mass of the Lord's Supper on Holy Thursday. Why it took two weeks to make the decree public is anyone's good guess.
The text of the earlier rubric clearly stated that the feet of viri selecti, which can only be translated as "select men," could be washed. It should be noted that the washing of feet was - and remains - optional; it is not required. Many - at least in the United States of America - took offense to this rubric and violated it each year by washing the feet of women, boys, and (rarely) girls.
The text of the earlier rubric clearly stated that the feet of viri selecti, which can only be translated as "select men," could be washed. It should be noted that the washing of feet was - and remains - optional; it is not required. Many - at least in the United States of America - took offense to this rubric and violated it each year by washing the feet of women, boys, and (rarely) girls.
Three liturgical changes we need now
Three Liturgical Changes We Need Now - Crisis Magazine: The very goal of the Christian’s life—true worship of God—is a subject too often brushed aside as irrelevant to question of transmitting the Faith, despite the growing urgency among the faithful to find new ways to catechize. What’s rightly perceived as a catechetical crisis ought to show us the relationship of worship to truth. Romano Guardini articulated it a century ago: The liturgy “condenses into prayer the entire body of religious truth.”
In practice, we’ve accepted the status quo of liturgical celebration handed on to us from the post-Vatican II upheavals. Essentially, some of the faithful, on behalf of the unsuspecting others, have accepted, moved on, and even lost institutional memory about destructive changes to how we worship.
In practice, we’ve accepted the status quo of liturgical celebration handed on to us from the post-Vatican II upheavals. Essentially, some of the faithful, on behalf of the unsuspecting others, have accepted, moved on, and even lost institutional memory about destructive changes to how we worship.
Pope changes rules for washing of the feet on Holy Thursday
Pope Changes Rules for Washing of the Feet on Holy Thursday |Blogs | NCRegister.comPENTIN: Pope Francis has decreed that from now on, the people chosen for the washing of the feet in the liturgy of Holy Thursday may be selected from all the People of God, and not only men and boys.
In a letter, dated 20 December and published today, to Cardinal Robert Sarah, prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments, the Holy Father informed the cardinal that he had, for some time, reflected on the "rite of the washing of the feet contained in the Liturgy of the Mass in Coena Domini, with the intention of improving the way in which it is performed so that it might express more fully the meaning of Jesus' gesture in the Cenacle, His giving of Himself unto the end for the salvation of the world, His limitless charity".
In a letter, dated 20 December and published today, to Cardinal Robert Sarah, prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments, the Holy Father informed the cardinal that he had, for some time, reflected on the "rite of the washing of the feet contained in the Liturgy of the Mass in Coena Domini, with the intention of improving the way in which it is performed so that it might express more fully the meaning of Jesus' gesture in the Cenacle, His giving of Himself unto the end for the salvation of the world, His limitless charity".
What muddle-heads get wrong about the Middle Ages
Muddle-Heads and the Middle Ages - The Imaginative ConservativePEARCE: There is very little in our modern life that is more muddle-headed than the view that most moderns have of the Middle Ages. For most moderns the Middle Ages are dismissed as being barbaric and violent, whereas, of course, our own enlightened and progressive times are, by comparison, civilized and peaceful. One thinks, for instance, of those modern ideologies, each of which traces its roots to the anti-mediaeval Enlightenment, which have blessed us with the Guillotine, the Gulag and the Gas Chamber, or perhaps we are reminded of the modern cult of hedonistic consumerism which systematically kills unborn babies in the name of “freedom.” Is it not it a relief to know that we have progressed beyond the barbarism of the Middle Ages to the glories of our enlightened present?
The true story of St. Christina the Astonishing, the indestructible miracle-woman
The True Story of St. Christina the Astonishing, the Indestructible Miracle-Woman | ChurchPOPMILLEGAN: So, Christina the Astonishing is sort of a saint.
She lived in the late 12th century and early 13th century, right around the time the Church was forming the modern canonization process, and she’s never been been formally canonized. Nonetheless, she was popularly considered a saint for centuries after her death. Her relics have been preserved, she was included in a version of Butler’s Lives of Saints, and was even honored on local liturgical calendars at various points. And apparently there remains a strong devotion to her in Belgium.
She lived in the late 12th century and early 13th century, right around the time the Church was forming the modern canonization process, and she’s never been been formally canonized. Nonetheless, she was popularly considered a saint for centuries after her death. Her relics have been preserved, she was included in a version of Butler’s Lives of Saints, and was even honored on local liturgical calendars at various points. And apparently there remains a strong devotion to her in Belgium.
Wednesday, January 20, 2016
Archdiocese of Chicago reports miraculous cure attributed to Cardinal Newman
John Henry Cardinal Newman's protracted path to sainthood finally reaching a conclusion: After an extensive local investigation, the Archdiocese of Chicago has forwarded to the Vatican a possible miracle attributed to the intercession of John Henry Cardinal Newman. If it is sustained by the Congregation for Causes of Saints, it would be the second miracle necessary for his canonisation. The case involves a Catholic mother who survived a life-threatening pregnancy after praying to Newman. Her physicians have testified that they cannot explain her sudden and explicable cure.
“Everyone is looking for you”: A meditation on a short sentence from Scripture
“Everyone Is Looking for You” - A Meditation on a Short Sentence from Scripture - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: There is a brief line in the first chapter of Mark’s Gospel that simply and completely sums up what we all are doing, even if we’re not aware of it. The setting of the passage is the outskirts of Capernaum in the early morning.
The prior day Jesus had healed a great many people at the house of Simon Peter. As the new day dawned there was already a multitude gathered in hopes of seeing this healer. Word must have spread quickly about Jesus.
But where was He? The text says that Jesus had slipped away to a deserted place to pray.
The prior day Jesus had healed a great many people at the house of Simon Peter. As the new day dawned there was already a multitude gathered in hopes of seeing this healer. Word must have spread quickly about Jesus.
But where was He? The text says that Jesus had slipped away to a deserted place to pray.
The Holy Fool remains a sign of contradiction to the world
The Holy Fool on Screen - Crisis MagazineTURLEY: The Holy Fool is a man or woman perceived as foolish in the eyes of the world but who is, nevertheless, an unnerving presence. Both in the Christian East and West, there is a long tradition of such individuals who witness to a spiritual reality beyond this world. Periodically, they appear on screen. Of these film representations, three examples are discussed below. Be forewarned. There are spoilers ahead.
Our first movie comes from Protestant northern Europe. The 1955 Danish film Ordet was an unexpected commercial and critical success. It is the work of the legendary filmmaker Carl Dryer, who, from the 1920s on, made one film every decade.
Our first movie comes from Protestant northern Europe. The 1955 Danish film Ordet was an unexpected commercial and critical success. It is the work of the legendary filmmaker Carl Dryer, who, from the 1920s on, made one film every decade.
Pope Francis and the Evangelicals
Pope Francis and the Evangelicals | Word On FireBARRON: The whole Christian world has watched with fascination as Pope Francis, over the past several months, has reached out to evangelicals. Who can forget the mesmerizing iPhone video, filmed by the Pope’s (late) friend Bishop Tony Palmer, in which the Bishop of Rome communicated, with father-like compassion, to a national gathering of American evangelical leaders? His smile, his tone of voice, and the simple, direct words that he chose constituted a bridge between Catholics and evangelicals. What I found particularly moving was the remarkable reaction of the evangelical audience after they had taken in the video: a real prayer in the Spirit.
A Quixotic question on Canadian dispute over Catholic schools and gender
A Quixotic question on Canadian dispute over Catholic schools and gender | Crux: A controversy erupted last week in Alberta, Canada, where the provincial government issued new guidelines for schools on sexual orientation and gender identity. The gist is to allow students to decide their own gender and to be treated accordingly, from which sports teams they can join to which bathrooms they can use.
Because Catholic schools in Canada are publicly funded, the measures apply to them, too. Arguably they’re directed at Catholic schools, since it was a controversy last year in Edmonton involving a seven-year-old transgender student’s request to use the girl’s washroom at her Catholic elementary school that pushed the issue into the spotlight.
Because Catholic schools in Canada are publicly funded, the measures apply to them, too. Arguably they’re directed at Catholic schools, since it was a controversy last year in Edmonton involving a seven-year-old transgender student’s request to use the girl’s washroom at her Catholic elementary school that pushed the issue into the spotlight.
Less than 1 percent of the world's shipwrecks have been explored—so get cracking!
Less Than 1 Percent of the World's Shipwrecks Have Been Explored: A rough estimate puts more than three million shipwrecks on the ocean floor. This number represents ships throughout the entirety of human history, from 10,000-year-old dugout canoes preserved in the muck to 21st century wrecks that you might have read about in the news. There are so many shipwrecks, in fact, that a search operation for the missing Malaysia Airlines Flight 370 has discovered two by accident. The Battle of the Atlantic alone, which spanned nearly six years during World War II, claimed over 3,500 merchant vessels, 175 warships, and 783 submarines.
Evidence grows that there's a gargantuan planet hiding on the fringes of our Solar System
Evidence grows for giant planet on fringes of Solar System : Nature News & Comment: A century after observatory founder Percival Lowell speculated that a ‘Planet X’ lurks at the fringes of the Solar System, astronomers say that they have the best evidence yet for such a world. They call it Planet Nine.
Related stories
Astronomers spy most distant Solar System object ever
Dwarf planet stretches Solar System's edge
Dwarf planet found to be heftier than Pluto
More related stories
Orbital calculations suggest that Planet Nine, if it exists, is about ten times the mass of Earth and swings an elliptical path around the Sun once every 10,000–20,000 years. It would never get closer than about 200 times the Earth–Sun distance, or 200 astronomical units (au). That range would put it far beyond Pluto, in the realm of icy bodies known as the Kuiper belt.
Related stories
Astronomers spy most distant Solar System object ever
Dwarf planet stretches Solar System's edge
Dwarf planet found to be heftier than Pluto
More related stories
Orbital calculations suggest that Planet Nine, if it exists, is about ten times the mass of Earth and swings an elliptical path around the Sun once every 10,000–20,000 years. It would never get closer than about 200 times the Earth–Sun distance, or 200 astronomical units (au). That range would put it far beyond Pluto, in the realm of icy bodies known as the Kuiper belt.
Can’t make it to the March for Life? Then march from home...
Can’t Make it to the March for Life? Then March from Home |Blogs | NCRegister.comFENELON: Last year when I missed the March for Life, I swore I’d make sure I got there this year.
Well, that’s not going to happen.
The way the chips have fallen, I’ll be missing out on the March for Life this year as well.
Or maybe not.
When I didn’t make it last year, I pouted, felt sorry for myself and miserably watched EWTN’s live feed of the March. All the while I allowed myself to think about one thing and one thing only:
I wish I could be there.
About half way through my sulk, I realized that my behavior was counter-productive. There was nothing I could do to change the circumstances, and I was only making myself miserable.
I changed my game plan.
Well, that’s not going to happen.
The way the chips have fallen, I’ll be missing out on the March for Life this year as well.
Or maybe not.
When I didn’t make it last year, I pouted, felt sorry for myself and miserably watched EWTN’s live feed of the March. All the while I allowed myself to think about one thing and one thing only:
I wish I could be there.
About half way through my sulk, I realized that my behavior was counter-productive. There was nothing I could do to change the circumstances, and I was only making myself miserable.
I changed my game plan.
Lord, you said there would be wine
Lord, You Said There Would Be Wine |Blogs | NCRegister.comFISHER: How can you tell a great work of art from a merely pleasant one? A great work of art never runs out. It can hang on your wall for years and years, and you'll still be struck, from time to time, with some new aspect you never considered before. So it is with the Gospel. Last Sunday, we heard the account of the Wedding at Cana, which is when Jesus began His public ministry, and which I've heard so often, I could tell it in my sleep. I've thought before about what it means that He chose to make wine (the first thing He wants us to do, when Jesus comes into our lives, is to rejoice!); that it was an enormous quantity of wine (when He comes through, He comes through big time); that it was wine of the highest quality (He doesn't just get the job done, like low quality wine with a sufficient alcohol content, but He's the good stuff, whether we're sober enough to appreciate it or not).
New study finds more teens and pre-teens turning to porn
New Study Finds More Teens and Pre-Teens Turning to Porn |Blogs | NCRegister.comSCHIFFER: American teens are watching porn and seeking it out more than any previous generation. According to a report released January 20 by the Barna Group, today's teens and young adults are exposed younger, are viewing more, and are increasingly desensitized to the images.
The Barna Group presented the results of their wide-ranging, nationally-representative sample of nearly 3,000 American teenagers, Christian pastors, and the Christian church. The Barna analysis did not compare Catholic teens and religious leaders with those from other denominations, but similar results are likely.
The Barna Group presented the results of their wide-ranging, nationally-representative sample of nearly 3,000 American teenagers, Christian pastors, and the Christian church. The Barna analysis did not compare Catholic teens and religious leaders with those from other denominations, but similar results are likely.
Here are my top movie picks of 2015
SDG’s Top Films of 2015 | Daily News | NCRegister.comGREYDANUS: The most celebrated films in any given year are often laced with dark or harrowing themes, and 2015 was no exception. From Mad Max: Fury Road and The Revenant to Bone Tomahawk and The Hateful Eight, from Beasts of No Nation and Sicario to Spotlight and Room, there was plenty to challenge, shock, or numb even jaded cinephiles.
Full disclosure: Several of those films I haven’t seen yet — and not all those I have seen are films I would recommend. But two of them were among the five films that moved me the most.
Full disclosure: Several of those films I haven’t seen yet — and not all those I have seen are films I would recommend. But two of them were among the five films that moved me the most.
Newsweek exposes “lying, scheming altar boy” behind Philadelphia sex abuse case
Catholic Guilt? The Lying, Scheming Altar Boy Behind a Lurid Rape Case: On October 9, 2015, a former Philadelphia altar boy reported to the office of Dr. Stephen Mechanick to undergo a court-ordered forensic psychiatric evaluation. It took nearly three hours because the two men had a lot of ground to cover. Daniel Gallagher is a slender 27-year-old with a wispy beard who is better known as “Billy Doe.” Under that pseudonym, he made national headlines in 2011 when he claimed to have been serially raped as a fifth- and sixth-grader at St. Jerome’s parish by two priests and a Catholic schoolteacher.
A Ukrainian Christmas-at-the-crossroads
A Ukrainian Christmas-at-the-crossroads - Denver CatholicWEIGEL: When Ukraine celebrated Christmas two weeks ago, there were ample reasons for pessimism about that long-suffering country’s future.
The national parliament is often dysfunctional, even by Washington standards. Corruption remains rampant throughout society and government. The Russian Anschluss of Crimea is, for the moment, a fait accompli, and Russian troops and their local hoodlum proxies continue to occupy significant parts of eastern Ukraine. The economy is a mess, real purchasing-power is down, fuel prices are up, and the oligarchs who control much of Ukraine’s wealth have not shown themselves overly enthusiastic about economic and political reform. Ukraine has absorbed 1.5 millions displaced persons fleeing Crimea or the war-zones of the Donbas – the rough equivalent of the United States being suddenly confronted with about 12.4 million internal refugees. The West has been largely supine in the face of Russian aggression in Ukraine; the West remains helpless in the face of the barrage of lies and propaganda the Russian media and Russian-paid internet trolls spew around the world.
The national parliament is often dysfunctional, even by Washington standards. Corruption remains rampant throughout society and government. The Russian Anschluss of Crimea is, for the moment, a fait accompli, and Russian troops and their local hoodlum proxies continue to occupy significant parts of eastern Ukraine. The economy is a mess, real purchasing-power is down, fuel prices are up, and the oligarchs who control much of Ukraine’s wealth have not shown themselves overly enthusiastic about economic and political reform. Ukraine has absorbed 1.5 millions displaced persons fleeing Crimea or the war-zones of the Donbas – the rough equivalent of the United States being suddenly confronted with about 12.4 million internal refugees. The West has been largely supine in the face of Russian aggression in Ukraine; the West remains helpless in the face of the barrage of lies and propaganda the Russian media and Russian-paid internet trolls spew around the world.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)