Pope Francis sends vestments, financial aid to Iraqi Christians :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): As a sign of affection and closeness, Pope Francis has decided to send vestments used in the liturgy and a financial donation to Christian refugees in Erbil through the Catholic pastoral charity Aid to the Church in Need.
“Mercy invites us to bend over these brothers of ours in order to dry their tears, to heal their moral and physical wounds, and to console their afflicted and perhaps lost hearts,” the Pope said in a letter addressed to Bishop Francesco Cavina of Carpi.
To do this, the Pope said, is not just “an act of proper charity, but a relief to your own body, because all Christians, by virtue of their shared baptism, are 'one' in Christ.”
Thursday, March 31, 2016
Father Mitch Pacwa looks back at Mother Angelica’s early years at EWTN
Father Mitch Pacwa Remembers Mother Angelica’s Early Years at EWTN | Daily News | NCRegister.com: I had never even considered a ministry in the media; I volunteered to defend our Catholic faith on an evangelical radio station in Nashville, Tenn., when I was a doctorate student at Vanderbilt University. Eventually, I got my own show, A Catholic View of Scripture, on that Protestant station.
One day, in 1984, Deacon Bill Steltemeier, then the president of EWTN, who was from Nashville, where I was living, liked my shows and asked Mother Angelica to invite me on her show, Mother Angelica Live. I drove to Irondale, Ala., in my $200 1968 Pontiac LeMans, wearing blue jeans, a flak jacket, hunting boots and a cowboy hat — just in case I needed to fix something in the car or change a tire. Upon arrival in the EWTN parking lot, Mother Angelica, with Sister Raphael, walked toward me and asked, “Can I help you, sir?” “Hi, Mother, I’m Father Mitch Pacwa, your guest tonight.” She hit her forehead with her palm, so I assured her, “Don’t worry; I clean up real well.”
One day, in 1984, Deacon Bill Steltemeier, then the president of EWTN, who was from Nashville, where I was living, liked my shows and asked Mother Angelica to invite me on her show, Mother Angelica Live. I drove to Irondale, Ala., in my $200 1968 Pontiac LeMans, wearing blue jeans, a flak jacket, hunting boots and a cowboy hat — just in case I needed to fix something in the car or change a tire. Upon arrival in the EWTN parking lot, Mother Angelica, with Sister Raphael, walked toward me and asked, “Can I help you, sir?” “Hi, Mother, I’m Father Mitch Pacwa, your guest tonight.” She hit her forehead with her palm, so I assured her, “Don’t worry; I clean up real well.”
The Milky Way’s hot spot might be one of the best sites to hunt for dark matter
The Milky Way’s hot spot | symmetry magazine: When you look up at night, the Milky Way appears as a swarm of stars arranged in a misty white band across the sky.�
But from an outside perspective, our galaxy looks more like a disk, with spiral arms of stars reaching out into the universe. At the center of this disk is a small region around which the entire pinwheel of our galaxy rotates, a region packed with exotic astronomical phenomena ranging from dark matter and newborn stars to a supermassive black hole. Astronomers call this region of the Milky Way the galactic center.�
It’s a strange neighborhood, and scientists have reason to believe it’s one of the best places to hunt for dark matter.
But from an outside perspective, our galaxy looks more like a disk, with spiral arms of stars reaching out into the universe. At the center of this disk is a small region around which the entire pinwheel of our galaxy rotates, a region packed with exotic astronomical phenomena ranging from dark matter and newborn stars to a supermassive black hole. Astronomers call this region of the Milky Way the galactic center.�
It’s a strange neighborhood, and scientists have reason to believe it’s one of the best places to hunt for dark matter.
Can quicksand really suck you to your death?
BBC - Future - Can quicksand really suck you to your death?: We’ve all seen the films.� A man is caught in quicksand, begging onlookers for help, but the more he struggles, the further down into the sand he is sucked until eventually he disappears. All that’s left is sinister sand, and maybe his hat. There are so many films featuring death by quicksand that Slate journalist Daniel Engbar has even tracked the peak quicksand years in film. In the 1960s, one in 35 films featured quicksands. They were in everything from Lawrence of Arabia to The Monkees.
Mother Angelica was a most diligent mother
A Most Diligent Mother: Angelica - Crisis MagazineZMIRAK: Given the crisis of faith of the 1970s and 1980s, building EWTN sometimes meant flouting the power of worldly bishops who’d learned more than golf tricks from their liberal Protestant colleagues. Indeed, too many clerics had soaked in the pastel, fuzzy uplift that for “mainline” denominations has largely replaced the Faith. By building without these gray men’s by-your-leave a media operation that reached millions of the most devout and generous Catholics in the country, Mother Angelica did an end-run around the bureaucratic institutions that modernists had co-opted—and built an enduring bridge between ordinary believers and the teaching office of Peter.
I'm a Christian and I hate Christian movies
Christian Movies - Why God's Not Dead and Faith-Based Films Hurt Religion: It's a frustrating time to love movies and God. As a lifelong evangelical and a Christian film critic, I'm constantly alerted to the next faith-based movie. You know, your near-death experience drama, your Kirk Cameron vehicles, your God's Not Dead franchise (see "part two" in theaters this week!) -- "Christian" films. Which, for someone who turns to movies for a dose of culture, often look like a pile of cheap cash-ins that make me break out in hives.
Pope Francis' long-awaited Apostolic Exhortation to be released April 8, Vatican announces
Pope Francis' Post-Synodal Apostolic Exhortation to Be Released April 8 |Blogs | NCRegister.com: Pope Francis much anticipated post-synodal apostolic exhortation on the Synod on the Family will be published on April 8, the Vatican announced today.
In a statement, the Vatican said the document, which will be entitled “Amoris Laetitia” (on love in the family), will be presented at a Holy See press conference attended by Cardinal Lorenzo Baldisseri, general secretary of the Synod of Bishops, and Cardinal Christoph Schönborn, archbishop of Vienna.
Also present will be married couple Professor Francesco Miano, lecturer in moral philosophy at the University of Rome at Tor Vergata, and Professor Giuseppina De Simone in Miano, lecturer in philosophy at the Theological Faculty of Southern Italy in Naples.
In a statement, the Vatican said the document, which will be entitled “Amoris Laetitia” (on love in the family), will be presented at a Holy See press conference attended by Cardinal Lorenzo Baldisseri, general secretary of the Synod of Bishops, and Cardinal Christoph Schönborn, archbishop of Vienna.
Also present will be married couple Professor Francesco Miano, lecturer in moral philosophy at the University of Rome at Tor Vergata, and Professor Giuseppina De Simone in Miano, lecturer in philosophy at the Theological Faculty of Southern Italy in Naples.
Wednesday, March 30, 2016
Fearful yet overjoyed: The journey to Resurrection faith
Fearful Yet Overjoyed – The Journey to Resurrection Faith - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: The gospels of the Easter Octave describe not just an event, but even more so, a journey. We are tempted to think that the disciples and apostles, having seen the risen Lord, were immediately confirmed in their faith and stripped of all doubt.
But that is not the case. Nearly all of the resurrection accounts make it clear that although seeing the risen Lord was “mind-blowing,” it was still only a beginning. As it is with any human experience, no matter how intense, encountering the risen Lord was something that the disciples needed to process. They needed to come to live its implications in stages.
But that is not the case. Nearly all of the resurrection accounts make it clear that although seeing the risen Lord was “mind-blowing,” it was still only a beginning. As it is with any human experience, no matter how intense, encountering the risen Lord was something that the disciples needed to process. They needed to come to live its implications in stages.
Fr. James Flanagan (1924-2016): The most influential Catholic you've never heard of
Fr. James Flanagan: The Most Influential Catholic You Have Never Heard Of |Blogs | NCRegister.comGRESS: Fr. James Flanagan, the founder of the Society of Our Lady of the Most Holy Trinity (SOLT), passed away on March 24 at the age of 91. Few people are familiar with this saintly man who preferred a hidden life while touching the lives of so many through the ministries of SOLT priests, consecrated and lay people. �
Born on May 29, 1924, the Feast of the Ascension, James Henry Flanagan always had a special connection to Our Lady. In his youth, the Boston native was given a deep faith by his parents, James and Rose. His father took young James and his three brothers and sister to daily Mass, planting the seeds for his future priestly vocation.
Born on May 29, 1924, the Feast of the Ascension, James Henry Flanagan always had a special connection to Our Lady. In his youth, the Boston native was given a deep faith by his parents, James and Rose. His father took young James and his three brothers and sister to daily Mass, planting the seeds for his future priestly vocation.
7 anniversaries every Catholic should celebrate
7 Anniversaries Every Catholic Should Celebrate – EpicPewMIRARCHI: Mention the word “anniversary” to the married man on the street and he’ll probably recoil in anxiety. Did I forget it—again? Such is the typical modern reaction, as if we needed more evidence that something’s not quite right with our culture. A day that ought to be anticipated and celebrated has become an occasion of fear.
As Christians we’re called to rejoice always, and as Catholics we have a lot of anniversaries to celebrate. Seven of the most important in rebuilding and strengthening Catholic culture are below.
As Christians we’re called to rejoice always, and as Catholics we have a lot of anniversaries to celebrate. Seven of the most important in rebuilding and strengthening Catholic culture are below.
The 100th anniversary of Our Lady of Fatima
The 100th Anniversary of Our Lady of FatimaKRANICK: This spring will mark 100 years since the Fatima apparitions, and an opportunity to reflect deeply again upon their message. The Angel of Peace appeared three times to the shepherd children, Lucia, Jacinta and Francisco, beginning in the spring of 1916 in Fatima, Portugal. These visitations prepared the way for the six apparitions of Our Lady of Fatima the following year. The message of Fatima may be lost sometimes in the mysterious and the spectacular: the apparitions; the “three secrets;” the “dancing of the sun.” Yet, the main entreaties from Heaven concerned our day-to-day earthly activities and how these will forge our eternal destiny. The everlasting consequence of unrepented mortal sin is Hell; knowing this, we should live our lives according to the laws of God, in obedience, purity and virtue. The central message of Fatima was an urgent plea to stay on the narrow path to Heaven.
Help for the Catholic suffering from scruples
For the Catholic Suffering from Scruples |Blogs | NCRegister.comFISHER: The other day, I wrote about how this Friday is within the Octave of Easter, which makes it a solemnity, or at least a day to be treated as a solemnity. This means that we can eat meat -- and, unlike any other Friday, we don't have to substitute another penance or sacrifice. It's a feast day, and we don't fast when the Bridegroom is with us.
For most people, this news means one thing: "Yay, meat!" But for others, it's a trapdoor into a pit of scrupulosity. The rules are not 100% crystal clear, and even if we do get clarity, we may still not be at peace: what if we're not necessarily required to abstain from meat, but not abstaining feels like we're letting ourselves off easy? Might that be a sin? What if we didn't research enough, and there might be some other reputable source that disagree about what kind of Friday it is? Is it sinful to stop researching? What if we accidentally swallowed a bit of chicken that was stuck in our teeth before we found out that it was okay to eat meat? And so on.
For most people, this news means one thing: "Yay, meat!" But for others, it's a trapdoor into a pit of scrupulosity. The rules are not 100% crystal clear, and even if we do get clarity, we may still not be at peace: what if we're not necessarily required to abstain from meat, but not abstaining feels like we're letting ourselves off easy? Might that be a sin? What if we didn't research enough, and there might be some other reputable source that disagree about what kind of Friday it is? Is it sinful to stop researching? What if we accidentally swallowed a bit of chicken that was stuck in our teeth before we found out that it was okay to eat meat? And so on.
Leftover Easter eggs? Here's a recipe that your family will love...
Leftover Easter Eggs? Here's a Recipe That Your Family Will Love! |Blogs | NCRegister.comSCHIFFER: The Easter egg: Symbol of Christ's Resurrection, symbol of new life. The colorful ovoids bring smiles to children's faces when they're discovered in the back yard or under the sofa on Easter morning. Nestled in plastic grass, surrounded by chocolate bunnies and marshmallow chicks, they're the perfect centerpiece for your holiday table.
But when the Easter celebration is over, what are you going to do with all of those hard-boiled eggs? I mean, how much egg salad can one family eat?
I have a suggestion! Why not dress six or seven of them up in a pie?
But when the Easter celebration is over, what are you going to do with all of those hard-boiled eggs? I mean, how much egg salad can one family eat?
I have a suggestion! Why not dress six or seven of them up in a pie?
Cartoon: At home with Mother Angelica
Cartoon: At Home with Mother AngelicaMURPHY: It was with sadness that I learned Sunday evening of the death of Mother Angelica, foundress of the Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN). I never met her as many of my friends and colleagues have, but I thank her network for much of my own Catholic formation. My wife and I were pen-pals before meeting up at Franciscan University of Steubenville, and I remember with great fondness that we used to chat on instant messaging while watching EWTN together though many miles apart. We remain fiercely Catholic and have even made our own pilgrimage of sorts to EWTN with our family.
How the Little Sisters of the Poor tripped the circuit
How the Little Sisters of the Poor tripped the circuit – Aleteia.org – Worldwide Catholic Network Sharing Faith Resources for those seeking Truth – Aleteia.orgFISHER: Raise your hand if you expected the Supreme Court’s response to the Little Sisters of the Poor case yesterday. No one, right? I know! I had very little hope that they would rule in favor of the sisters, and I didn’t expect any response at all until summer at the earliest. There hasn’t been a decision yet, but they did basically ask the sisters, “Okay, fine, we’re out of ideas. What do you think would work?” That’s no victory, of course, but it’s no defeat, either. A couple of things made me laugh as I was thinking over the situation. First, it looks like the GOP has accidentally blundered into a good deed for once. I had been so mad at them for refusing to even consider Merrick Garland. I get that they are super mad at Obama for being Obama, and I get that it’s super unfair that an outgoing president should get to exert such influence over the makeup of the court. But Garland was really the best that anyone could hope for, unless we think that Hillary or Trump were planning to use their necromancy skills to nominate zombie Scalia. Which they were not. The stonewalling was yet another example of the dysfunctional and spiteful short-sightedness of the party. It feels so good to lash out now, and who cares about next week? Bah. It’s like they’re all five years old.
The tough nun nurse who stood up to the Nazis
The Tough Nun Nurse Who Stood Up to the Nazis | catholicsaintsguyONEEL: We know the Nazis’ wickedness cowed many into silence, but not everyone. Take, for instance, Bl. Maria Restituta.
Born Helen Kafka, she was from a family of Czech extraction, and she grew up in Vienna. After leaving school at 15, Helen tried her hand at various jobs before settling on a nursing career with the Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity.
After several months, Helen asked her parents to join the order. When they refused, she ran away from home. Ultimately, her parents relented, and so the congregation accepted her. Helen took the name Restituta after an early martyr who had been beheaded and made her final vows at age 23 in 1918.
Born Helen Kafka, she was from a family of Czech extraction, and she grew up in Vienna. After leaving school at 15, Helen tried her hand at various jobs before settling on a nursing career with the Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity.
After several months, Helen asked her parents to join the order. When they refused, she ran away from home. Ultimately, her parents relented, and so the congregation accepted her. Helen took the name Restituta after an early martyr who had been beheaded and made her final vows at age 23 in 1918.
Tuesday, March 29, 2016
Banana Fanna Fo Filliam
Banana Fanna Fo Filliam | Rocking the Cradle CatholicMOORE: It’s been a few years since my son was confirmed, but I remember being just a little envious of his experience. He studied the lives of various saints, came to a solid conclusion on his Confirmation name and can still tell you exactly why he chose it. He decided on, “John”—the apostle who didn’t abandon Jesus, stood by Mary at the cross and took her into his care.
I don’t remember receiving a lot of coaching on name selection back in the day (confirmed 6th grade, c. 1971). We focused a lot more on a folded piece of 8.5 x 11 cardstock with four panels of questions the archbishop would be selecting from in order to judge our sacramental worthiness.
I don’t remember receiving a lot of coaching on name selection back in the day (confirmed 6th grade, c. 1971). We focused a lot more on a folded piece of 8.5 x 11 cardstock with four panels of questions the archbishop would be selecting from in order to judge our sacramental worthiness.
Kidnapped Indian priest's brother on crucifixion rumors: “I trust in the Lord”
Kidnapped Indian Priest’s Brother on Crucifixion Rumors: ‘I Trust in the Lord’ | Daily News | NCRegister.com: The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) has deplored the widespread rumors of the crucifixion of kidnapped Salesian Father Thomas Uzhunnalil on Good Friday in Yemen, where the Indian priest is suspected to have been held in captivity since he was kidnapped by forces of the Islamic State group there in Aden on March 4.
St. Anthony Messenger profiles Oscar-winning Catholic actress Patty Duke (R.I.P.)
One-on-One with Patty Duke | St. Anthony Messenger Magazine: One of the most popular teen stars on television, now the proud grandmother of six, Oscar winner Patty Duke, 68, is enjoying her sixth decade as a professional actor. Happily ensconced in the northern Idaho home she shares with her husband of 29 years, Michael Pearce, she is grateful for both her past successes and her present joys.
“I’ve been richly blessed,” she says softly. “When I pray, I never ask for material things. I offer only prayers of gratitude.”
“I’ve been richly blessed,” she says softly. “When I pray, I never ask for material things. I offer only prayers of gratitude.”
The final passion of Mother Angelica on Good Friday, revealed by an EWTN priest
The Final Passion of Mother Angelica on Good Friday, Revealed by EWTN Priest | ChurchPOPMILLEGAN: Many people have noted how fitting it seemed that Mother Angelica passed away on Easter Sunday, the day on which Christians celebrate Jesus Christ’s resurrection and triumph over death. Now, new details are emerging about her final days that show even more interesting convergences between her life and the liturgical calendar. “It was on Good Friday,” EWTN Chaplain Fr. Joseph Wolfe explained in a sermon he gave recently about Mother Angelica’s death, “that I heard from one of the caregivers who was helping Mother.”
For faithful Catholics like Mother Angelica, the day we die is the greatest day of our life on this earth
Blessed Are Those Who Die in the Lord - A Meditation on the Christian Attitude toward Death - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: The recent death of Mother Angelica provoked the expected saddness at the passing of such a great woman. Indeed, her vivacious and plain-spoken presence has long been missed during these years of her declining health. She called this her time of purgatory and purification. In an extraordinary grace, the Lord called her at 5:00 PM on Easter Sunday, likely the very time at which He was making His first appearances to His disciples at Emmaus and in Jersalem.
The power of a single life
The power of a single life – Mama Needs CoffeeUEBBING: I’ve heard it said often enough that one has to be able to “afford” to be open to life, that only those people in the most fortunate and stable of circumstances (at least by human appearances), can welcome and successfully raise a productive member of society.
I don’t want to get into a game of “I’ll show you my (grocery bill) if you’ll show me yours,” but I’ve always found that to be an incredible claim.
And not just from a financial perspective, either.
We think our marriages must be perfect, our family lives stable and free from stress, our professional paths paved with certainty and security.
But I think it’s is a modern-day fairytale, this myth of the planned and neatly executed life.
I don’t want to get into a game of “I’ll show you my (grocery bill) if you’ll show me yours,” but I’ve always found that to be an incredible claim.
And not just from a financial perspective, either.
We think our marriages must be perfect, our family lives stable and free from stress, our professional paths paved with certainty and security.
But I think it’s is a modern-day fairytale, this myth of the planned and neatly executed life.
SCOTUSblog: Court seeks new way to decide birth-control cases
Court seeks new way to decide birth-control cases : SCOTUSblogDENNISTON: The Supreme Court on Tuesday afternoon, looking for a new way to spare religious non-profit institutions from any role in providing birth-control techniques for their employees even while assuring that those services are available, asked lawyers on both sides of seven cases to make new proposals on how both might be done. �The text of the order is here.
In the two-page order, which the Justices apparently had been working on since they held a hearing last Wednesday, lawyers were told to file one new brief on each side of the controversy, and then single replies, and to submit all filings by April 20.� There was no indication that the Court would hold a new hearing on this deep controversy under the Affordable Care Act.
In the two-page order, which the Justices apparently had been working on since they held a hearing last Wednesday, lawyers were told to file one new brief on each side of the controversy, and then single replies, and to submit all filings by April 20.� There was no indication that the Court would hold a new hearing on this deep controversy under the Affordable Care Act.
“An excellent development”: Supreme Court directs both sides to seek fresh solutions in Little Sisters case
Supreme Court Offers Surprising, Hopeful Twist in Little Sisters' Case |Blogs | NCRegister.comDESMOND: Just days after eight justices heard oral arguments for the legal challenge to the Health and Human Services contraceptive mandate filed by the Little Sisters of the Poor, and six other cases, the Court asked both the Obama administration and the plaintiffs to provide fresh solutions that addressed the plaintiffs' moral objections, while serving the needs of their employees. “This is an excellent development. Clearly the Supreme Court understood the Sisters' concern that the government's current scheme forces them to violate their religion,” said the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty's Mark Rienzi, in a press release.
A visit with Christopher Hagen of the legendary Loome Theological Booksellers
An Interview with Christopher Hagen: For decades independent bookstores have struggled to stay open in our age of online big-box goliath. Christians have also witnessed the disappearance of gift stores and bookshops, arguably the final vestiges of religious public witness outside of the doors of our churches and chancery edifices. Few stores remain today dedicated to rediscovering the intellectual and spiritual works of Christian masters, both obscure and renowned.
Loome Theological Booksellers is such a place. Located in Stillwater, Minnesota, Loome rests five miles east of the picturesque Lake Elmo, along a quiet rural road most would describe as “hilly” in an otherwise notoriously flat mid-western state. Greeted by a handful of giddy chickens, you might notice something different about this bookstore. It isn’t just the “tranquil” or “peaceful” setting. At owner Christopher Hagen’s storefront you also encounter a “family-centered experience” due to the short distance between the store and his family home.
Loome Theological Booksellers is such a place. Located in Stillwater, Minnesota, Loome rests five miles east of the picturesque Lake Elmo, along a quiet rural road most would describe as “hilly” in an otherwise notoriously flat mid-western state. Greeted by a handful of giddy chickens, you might notice something different about this bookstore. It isn’t just the “tranquil” or “peaceful” setting. At owner Christopher Hagen’s storefront you also encounter a “family-centered experience” due to the short distance between the store and his family home.
15 pieces of writing advice from C.S. Lewis
15 Pieces of Writing Advice from C. S. Lewis | TGC: In his letters and other sources, C. S. Lewis left various bits of advice on the craft of writing. Below are 15 of the things he said. The bold is my restatement, followed by his actual quote.
The memorial of two merry marrieds
The Memorial of Two Merry Marrieds | catholicsaintsguyONEEL: Queen St. Gwladys (Gladys, Claudia) and King St. Gwynllyw.
The life of this Welsh king and queen of the early sixth century is known to us through biographies (i.e., Vitae plural or Vita, singular) of the husband St. Gwynllyw (aka Gundleus, Gunlei, Woolos the Warrior, Woolos the Bearded) and of their eldest son St. Cadoc the Wise.
The life of this Welsh king and queen of the early sixth century is known to us through biographies (i.e., Vitae plural or Vita, singular) of the husband St. Gwynllyw (aka Gundleus, Gunlei, Woolos the Warrior, Woolos the Bearded) and of their eldest son St. Cadoc the Wise.
Pope Leo XIII's 1891 encyclical on dueling is surprisingly relevant today
This 1891 Encyclical on Dueling is Surprisingly Relevant Today |Blogs | NCRegister.comMCAFEE: This is kind of cool: Leo XIII wrote an encyclical on dueling
Pope Leo XIII was a prolific author. In case you didn’t already know that, he wrote 85 encyclicals in his 25-year reign as pope, which didn’t include dozens of other informal letters and contributions. About 10% of these alone were devoted to discussing the Rosary. He also focused heavily on education and the reforming of seminaries, and also wrote at length on ecumenism long before Unitatus Redintegratio was published in Vatican II.� Among all of his extensive work (and his encyclicals are certainly extensive!) 45% of these were on civil issues, especially, that of social justice. Truly, no one else has contributed more to the topic of social justice than Pope Leo XIII, which is why I think, particularly with the landmark encyclical Rerum Novarum, he should be named the Doctor of Justice.
Pope Leo XIII was a prolific author. In case you didn’t already know that, he wrote 85 encyclicals in his 25-year reign as pope, which didn’t include dozens of other informal letters and contributions. About 10% of these alone were devoted to discussing the Rosary. He also focused heavily on education and the reforming of seminaries, and also wrote at length on ecumenism long before Unitatus Redintegratio was published in Vatican II.� Among all of his extensive work (and his encyclicals are certainly extensive!) 45% of these were on civil issues, especially, that of social justice. Truly, no one else has contributed more to the topic of social justice than Pope Leo XIII, which is why I think, particularly with the landmark encyclical Rerum Novarum, he should be named the Doctor of Justice.
Video: My 3-year-old son saying Mass on Easter Sunday
[Video] My 3-Year-Old Son Saying Mass on Easter�|�Brandon VogtVOGT: When our family arrived home after Mass on Easter Sunday, our three-year-old son Augustine announced that he wanted to say Mass himself.
Partly because he’s pious, partly because he just wanted the free graham cracker used to say Mass.
So we got out the kids’ Mass kit—the same one that his older brother, Isaiah, began using when he was three years old—and let Augustine celebrate his own Easter liturgy.
Before he started I took out my iPhone so we record the Mass and share it with a few friends and family. Later, I posted the video on Facebook. I was stunned the next day when I logged in and saw that the video had already been watched over 20,000 times.
Partly because he’s pious, partly because he just wanted the free graham cracker used to say Mass.
So we got out the kids’ Mass kit—the same one that his older brother, Isaiah, began using when he was three years old—and let Augustine celebrate his own Easter liturgy.
Before he started I took out my iPhone so we record the Mass and share it with a few friends and family. Later, I posted the video on Facebook. I was stunned the next day when I logged in and saw that the video had already been watched over 20,000 times.
Monday, March 28, 2016
Utah becomes first state to require painkillers for unborn children during abortion
Utah gov. signs bill requiring anesthesia in certain abortions: Utah Gov. Gary Herbert signed a bill that requires doctors to give anesthesia to women having an abortion 20 weeks into their pregnancy or later — the first law of its kind in the USA.
Among other provisions, SB 0234 requires doctors who perform abortions to administer an anesthetic on women who are at least 20 weeks pregnant, suggesting it would reduce or eliminate pain a fetus may be feeling.
"The governor is adamantly pro-life," said Jon Cox, spokesman for the Republican governor, in an emailed statement. "He believes in not only erring on the side of life, but also minimizing any pain that may be caused to an unborn child."
Among other provisions, SB 0234 requires doctors who perform abortions to administer an anesthetic on women who are at least 20 weeks pregnant, suggesting it would reduce or eliminate pain a fetus may be feeling.
"The governor is adamantly pro-life," said Jon Cox, spokesman for the Republican governor, in an emailed statement. "He believes in not only erring on the side of life, but also minimizing any pain that may be caused to an unborn child."
Bishop Hinder: “Strong indications” that Fr. Tom Uzhunnalil “is still alive in the hands of his kidnappers”
x: Several blogs and media outlets are reporting that Fr. Tom Uzhunnalil was crucified by ISIS on Good Friday.
There has been no confirmation of the event by friends, family or Fr. Uzhunnalil’s community. The original reports were based on a statement Austrian Cardinal Christoph Schönborn of Vienna allegedly made during Easter vigil services.
Bishop Paul Hinder of Southern Arabia, the country just north of Yemen where Fr. Uzhunnalil was kidnapped, told CNA on Monday that he has “strong indications that Fr. Tom is still alive in the hands of the kidnappers,” but could not give further information in order to protect the life of the priest. Bishop Hinder added that Cardinal Schönborn has since corrected his alleged statement, which was made on the basis of an incorrect statement from Archbishop Moras in Bangalore.
Horrific Easter bombing seen as a crossroad for Pakistan
Horrific Easter bombing seen as a crossroad for Pakistan :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): Religious freedom advocates have condemned the Easter Sunday bombing in Pakistan that killed more than 70, while insisting upon reform within the country to prevent future such attacks.
“We are horrified at this Easter attack, and the tragic loss of life,” Dr. Katrina Lantos Swett, commissioner at the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom, told CNA.
“It’s truly heartbreaking, and our hearts and prayers go out to all of those affected, those who lost family members, had family members injured, and really to the entire Christian community in Pakistan who were the focus and target of this attack.”
“We are horrified at this Easter attack, and the tragic loss of life,” Dr. Katrina Lantos Swett, commissioner at the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom, told CNA.
“It’s truly heartbreaking, and our hearts and prayers go out to all of those affected, those who lost family members, had family members injured, and really to the entire Christian community in Pakistan who were the focus and target of this attack.”
Advice for a Catholic neophyte
Advice for a Catholic Neophyte - Crisis MagazineLU: It’s an especially happy Easter for the Lu family this year, since a near and dear relative of mine came into the Church at the Easter Vigil. Eleven years into my Catholic life, I am no longer the only Catholic in my natal family. God is good.
In light of that, I’ve been reflecting on the topic of conversion, and what I as his sponsor really ought to convey. Since everyone’s life is a bit different, it’s hard to know what will really help. Even so, generating advice for neophytes is a healthy exercise in self-evaluation. What have I learned in my time so far as a Catholic? I made a list of the most important things, and would encourage others to make theirs, if only to reflect on where we might improve.
In light of that, I’ve been reflecting on the topic of conversion, and what I as his sponsor really ought to convey. Since everyone’s life is a bit different, it’s hard to know what will really help. Even so, generating advice for neophytes is a healthy exercise in self-evaluation. What have I learned in my time so far as a Catholic? I made a list of the most important things, and would encourage others to make theirs, if only to reflect on where we might improve.
“And in the morning watch the Lord cast a glance”: A meditation on the look of the Lord...
“And in the Morning Watch the Lord … Cast a Glance …” A Meditation on the Look of the Lord - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: There is an astonishing verse in the Exodus account, which was read at the Easter Vigil. The Lord has parted the waters of the Red Sea by a strong eastern wind and the Israelites have just made the crossing and the Egyptians pursued them. The verse says:
And in the morning watch the Lord in the pillar of fire and of cloud cast a glace on the Egyptian forces and threw the Egyptian forces into a panic.
And in the morning watch the Lord in the pillar of fire and of cloud cast a glace on the Egyptian forces and threw the Egyptian forces into a panic.
How has Mother Angelica changed your life?
How Has Mother Angelica Changed Your Life? |Blogs | NCRegister.comWEHNER: Although I never met Mother Mary Angelica personally, I, like millions of others, met her while watching her on EWTN and feel I owe her a debt of gratitude. Long before the Register became a part of the EWTN family five years ago, EWTN was an oasis of faith during the catechetical and liturgical desert of the late 20th century — and a light along my own path to conversion.
My first exposure to Mother came during the late 1980s-early 1990s, when I served as the editor of the TV supplement of a large Massachusetts newspaper. We would receive press releases on programming from the Eternal Word Television Network, a fledgling Catholic network that was trying to make a go of it. I noticed that it was the only Catholic network amid a sea of Evangelical televangelist programs.
My first exposure to Mother came during the late 1980s-early 1990s, when I served as the editor of the TV supplement of a large Massachusetts newspaper. We would receive press releases on programming from the Eternal Word Television Network, a fledgling Catholic network that was trying to make a go of it. I noticed that it was the only Catholic network amid a sea of Evangelical televangelist programs.
Mother Angelica was a pistol, a full-throttle disciple of Jesus, and as fearless as they come
Mother Angelica: An Appreciation |Blogs | NCRegister.comSHEA: I was honored with the chance to do her show once and she made an immediate conquest of me. She could whipsaw from being a sweet old lady (she took my hands in her soft grandma hands and graciously welcomed me, "Oh hello dear! It's so nice to meet you. How *are* you?") to being that tough nun who scared the daylights out of every third grader. Only she didn't take it out on callers. She took it out on priests and bishops who needed a little Catherine of Siena treatment from a tough nun with soft grandma hands. On the show I was on, a caller called in to talk to her (nobody wanted to talk to me, thank God). She told Mother that there had been a lay-led communion service at her parish, even though a priest and bishop were there.
12 sayings of Mother Angelica that made me laugh out loud
12 Sayings of Mother Angelica that Made Me Laugh Out Loud | TOM PERNAPERNA: As many of you probably know by now, Mother Mary Angelica, the founder of the Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN) passed into eternal life yesterday afternoon around 5:00pm. It is fitting that Mother Angelica entered eternal life on the day Our Jesus Christ rose from the dead – Easter Sunday! I found out about her passing as I was sitting on the couch watching the New York Rangers hockey game and looking at Facebook on my iPhone. I knew she had been sick for many years, and although the news is sad, we can also rejoice knowing that she is in the presence of Jesus Christ.
Blessed Franz Jägerstätter: A loving dad who was guillotined for resisting the Nazis
Franz Jagerstatter: Solitary, but not alone: One theme unifies the stories of all the saints: Christians are never alone. Even in the most isolated circumstances, saints have a profound union with God. This principle is demonstrated by the martyrdom of Franz Jagerstatter, a father and martyr during the Nazi occupation of Austria.
The Resurrection and Apollo XIII
Two Catholic Men and a Blog: The Resurrection and Apollo XIIIBUTERA: Remember that early Christians were not converted by the sword. In fact, it was the precise opposite. If you did convert, you would face “the sword” or at least by ostracized from your already established culture and community. In the logic of the human condition, people will follow the path of least resistance without a strong impetus to do otherwise. Would mere stories convince so many without other compelling evidence? There are exceptions to every rule, but it’s easier to do nothing than to turn your life upside-down listening to the legends of liars and lunatics. But suppose they already felt ostracized by their culture and were desperately looking for a revolution and a savior? This would have plausibly appealed to the “fight or flight” instinct, but the new Christian faith was not about taking up weapons or running away from problems.
It was with great sadness that Catholic Answers learned of the passing of Mother Angelica
Mother Angelica: 1923-2016 | Catholic AnswersAKIN: It was with great sadness that Catholic Answers learned of the passing of Mother Mary Angelica of the Annunciation, popularly known as Mother Angelica. She was a Poor Clare nun and a Catholic media pioneer, founding the Eternal Word Television Network—EWTN—which grew to include not only television but also radio, print, and the Internet.
She passed away on Easter Sunday.
More information about her amazing life is available here.
After learning the news, Catholic Answers’ president, Christopher Check, said...
She passed away on Easter Sunday.
More information about her amazing life is available here.
After learning the news, Catholic Answers’ president, Christopher Check, said...
What are you looking at when you look out to sea? The answer may surprise you...
Beyond the sea | Andy Woodruff: In the northern reaches of Newfoundland, near the town of St. Anthony, is the Fox Point Lighthouse. I’ve never been there, but I know it has one of the most impressive ocean views in the world. If you face perpendicular to the right bit of rocky coastline there and gaze straight across the ocean, your mind’s eye peering well beyond the horizon, you can see all the way to Australia.
From 1889 to 1941, what 9 long-ago U.S. presidents sounded like
What Early-20th Century American Presidents Sounded Like | Mental Floss: Everyone knows JFK's Boston accent and, thanks to the 24-hour news cycle, is more than familiar with the voices of recent presidents like Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama (who, according to some, sounds more than a little bit like Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson). But what did President Calvin "Silent Cal" Coolidge sound like when he deigned to speak? Or how about 23rd President Benjamin Harrison, the first president to be captured on audio? Wonder no more—here's what nine presidents sounded like. (You'll have to continue using your imagination for Chester A. Arthur and all of his predecessors.)
Friend of Mother Angelica on the road to sainthood?
Friend of Mother Angelica on the road to sainthood? | catholicsaintsguyONEEL: As the teenager Rita Rizzo, the recently deceased Mother Angelica had a good friend, an older woman named Rhoda Wise. Many thought Rita – a stigmatist similar to Therese Neumann – was a saint in her lifetime.
Now Rhoda may be on her way to beatification. See here for more.
Also, that 19-year-old on the far right? That’s Rita Rizzo. Rest in peace, Mother.
Now Rhoda may be on her way to beatification. See here for more.
Also, that 19-year-old on the far right? That’s Rita Rizzo. Rest in peace, Mother.
We shall not look upon the likes of Mother Angelica again
We shall not look upon the likes of Mother Angelica again – CRUXALLEN: With the death of Mother Angelica on Easter Sunday, the Church has lost the most charismatic American Catholic media personality of her time, as well as someone who proved beyond any doubt that a determined and savvy woman can, after all, wield real power inside an organization often perceived as a boys’ club.
Ninety-two at the time of her death and largely withdrawn from the world, Mother Angelica at the top of her game was feisty, smart, alternately stern and hilarious, all wrapped up in the habit of a seemingly ordinary Franciscan nun. There was nothing “ordinary” about her, however, because for much of the 1980s and 1990s, she was simply the most riveting Catholic figure on the airwaves.
Ninety-two at the time of her death and largely withdrawn from the world, Mother Angelica at the top of her game was feisty, smart, alternately stern and hilarious, all wrapped up in the habit of a seemingly ordinary Franciscan nun. There was nothing “ordinary” about her, however, because for much of the 1980s and 1990s, she was simply the most riveting Catholic figure on the airwaves.
Animal rights protestors disrupt Easter Mass at St. Patrick's Cathedral
Worshipers feared for their lives during Easter Mass at St. Pat’s | New York Post: Worshipers attending Easter Mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral got the scare of their lives when a band of unruly protesters disrupted the event.
“I thought they were going to blow themselves up,” worshiper Carol Forester, 50, confessed.
A group of six animal rights protesters abruptly leaped up from a pew in the middle of the service and shouted, “Easter is a time for love! No more shedding animal blood!” while holding up signs of animals pleading for their lives.
“I thought they were going to blow themselves up,” worshiper Carol Forester, 50, confessed.
A group of six animal rights protesters abruptly leaped up from a pew in the middle of the service and shouted, “Easter is a time for love! No more shedding animal blood!” while holding up signs of animals pleading for their lives.
Yes, an Easter terror attack is symbolic. Some reports danced around the facts on the ground...
Yes, an Easter terror attack is symbolic: Some reports danced around facts on the ground — GetReligionMATTINGLY: In the wake of the Brussels attacks, there were quite a few mainstream media reports noting that police were bracing for more terrorist attacks during the upcoming weekend.
Right, as if – looking at the calendar – this was just another weekend.
Why would police specifically need to worry about attacks on Easter, the most important holy day in the Christian faith? Of course, millions of Eastern Christians – especially in the Middle East – will face these fears again in the days leading up to Pascha (Easter) on the ancient Julian calendar, which is May 1 this year.
Right, as if – looking at the calendar – this was just another weekend.
Why would police specifically need to worry about attacks on Easter, the most important holy day in the Christian faith? Of course, millions of Eastern Christians – especially in the Middle East – will face these fears again in the days leading up to Pascha (Easter) on the ancient Julian calendar, which is May 1 this year.
Indian government says it is trying to rescue kidnapped priest; crucifixion rumors unconfirmed
Indian government says it is trying to rescue kidnapped priest ucanews.com: The Indian government said it was still actively trying to rescue a Salesian priest kidnapped in Yemen in early March amid unconfirmed reports that the missionary had been crucified on Good Friday.
Indian foreign minister Sushma Swaraj tweeted on March 26 that the government was continuing efforts to rescue Father Thomas Uzhunnalil.
"We are making all efforts to secure his release," said Swaraj's tweet.
Indian foreign minister Sushma Swaraj tweeted on March 26 that the government was continuing efforts to rescue Father Thomas Uzhunnalil.
"We are making all efforts to secure his release," said Swaraj's tweet.
EWTN foundress Mother Angelica dies at 92
Mother Angelica, 1923-2016 | Daily News | NCRegister.com: The Catholic Church in the United States has lost the Poor Clare nun who changed the face of Catholicism in the United States and around the world. Mother Mary Angelica of the Annunciation, foundress of the Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN), passed away on March 27, Easter Sunday, after a 15-year struggle with the aftereffects of a stroke. She was 92 years old.
Sunday, March 27, 2016
We will never see the like of Mother Angelica again. May her Easter never end...
Whispers in the Loggia: "Come, Bride of Christ" – Mother Angelica Dies at 92PALMO: For a good many American Catholics, this Easter night brings a bigger blow than the loss of a Pope.
See, there'll always be another Bishop of Rome... but there can never be another "Mother."
Arguably the most influential voice for the Stateside church's "base" over two generations – and, indeed, a woman whose prime saw her wield more clout than almost any churchman at home or abroad – the beloved, famous, ever-candid, sometime-controversial EWTN foundress Mother Angelica died at 92 at 5pm Central time, surrounded by the Poor Clare sisters of the Alabama monastery she built.
See, there'll always be another Bishop of Rome... but there can never be another "Mother."
Arguably the most influential voice for the Stateside church's "base" over two generations – and, indeed, a woman whose prime saw her wield more clout than almost any churchman at home or abroad – the beloved, famous, ever-candid, sometime-controversial EWTN foundress Mother Angelica died at 92 at 5pm Central time, surrounded by the Poor Clare sisters of the Alabama monastery she built.
Why was the Resurrection such a hidden event?
Why Was the Resurrection Such a Hidden Event? - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: Note that Jesus did not appear openly to all but rather only to some. Why is this? It is so different from what most of us would do.
If I were God (and it is very good for you that I am not), I would rise from the dead very dramatically. Perhaps I would summon people to my tomb with trumpet blasts and then emerge amid great fanfare (including a multitude of angels), inspiring awe and striking fear in the hearts of the enemies who had killed me. Or maybe I would ride down on a lightning bolt right into the temple precincts and then go up to the high priest and tell him to seek other employment. Surely to accomplish such a feat would be an event that would never be forgotten! It would draw many to faith, would it not?
If I were God (and it is very good for you that I am not), I would rise from the dead very dramatically. Perhaps I would summon people to my tomb with trumpet blasts and then emerge amid great fanfare (including a multitude of angels), inspiring awe and striking fear in the hearts of the enemies who had killed me. Or maybe I would ride down on a lightning bolt right into the temple precincts and then go up to the high priest and tell him to seek other employment. Surely to accomplish such a feat would be an event that would never be forgotten! It would draw many to faith, would it not?
Christ has risen, and so will you
Christ Has Risen - And So Will You - Taylor MarshallMARSHALL: One-thousand nine-hundred and eighty-three years ago, the true, historical, physical body of Jesus Christ stood up alive.
The man who described Himself to be “one with the Father” and the “Son of God” and “Son of Man” conquered death.
In 2016, we believers are united to the resurrected Christ. He is in us and we are in Him.
Whatever trouble(s) you face today: addiction, illness, financial difficulty, bankruptcy, death, divorce, a lost relationship, a broken relationship, estrangement, mortal sin, etc. the infinite resurrection power of Jesus Christ can change everything.
Your story can and will change. Do not lose faith and do not lose hope.
The man who described Himself to be “one with the Father” and the “Son of God” and “Son of Man” conquered death.
In 2016, we believers are united to the resurrected Christ. He is in us and we are in Him.
Whatever trouble(s) you face today: addiction, illness, financial difficulty, bankruptcy, death, divorce, a lost relationship, a broken relationship, estrangement, mortal sin, etc. the infinite resurrection power of Jesus Christ can change everything.
Your story can and will change. Do not lose faith and do not lose hope.
Pope's Urbi et Orbi message: “With the weapons of love, God has defeated selfishness and death”
Pope Francis' 2016 'Urbi et Orbi' Easter Message |Blogs | NCRegister.com: Dear Brothers and Sisters, Happy Easter!
Jesus Christ, the incarnation of God’s mercy, out of love for us, died on the cross, and out of love he rose again from the dead. That is why we proclaim today: Jesus is Lord!
His resurrection fulfils the prophecy of the Psalm: God’s mercy endures for ever; it never dies. We can trust him completely, and we thank him because for our sake he descended into the depths of the abyss.
Before the spiritual and moral abysses of mankind, before the chasms that open up in hearts and provoke hatred and death, only an infinite mercy can bring us salvation. Only God can fill those chasms with his love, prevent us from falling into them and help us to continue our journey together towards the land of freedom and life.
Jesus Christ, the incarnation of God’s mercy, out of love for us, died on the cross, and out of love he rose again from the dead. That is why we proclaim today: Jesus is Lord!
His resurrection fulfils the prophecy of the Psalm: God’s mercy endures for ever; it never dies. We can trust him completely, and we thank him because for our sake he descended into the depths of the abyss.
Before the spiritual and moral abysses of mankind, before the chasms that open up in hearts and provoke hatred and death, only an infinite mercy can bring us salvation. Only God can fill those chasms with his love, prevent us from falling into them and help us to continue our journey together towards the land of freedom and life.
At least 60 reported killed in explosion in Pakistan’s Lahore
At least 60 reported killed in explosion in Pakistan’s Lahore - The Washington Post: An explosion ripped through crowds of families gathered at a public park in the eastern city of Lahore on Sunday, killing at least 60 people and injuring 300, according to local officials.
The attack appeared to have been carried out by a suicide bomber in the parking lot of Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park, a vast space where families had flocked to picnic and celebrate the Easter holiday. Police said most of the dead and injured were women and children, according to the Reuters news agency.
The attack appeared to have been carried out by a suicide bomber in the parking lot of Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park, a vast space where families had flocked to picnic and celebrate the Easter holiday. Police said most of the dead and injured were women and children, according to the Reuters news agency.
Pope prays for victims of terror strike at Iraq soccer stadium
Pope prays for victims of terror strike at Iraq football stadium :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): Pope Francis has sent a his condolences following the suicide attack against a football stadium in Iskanderiyah, Iraq which killed more than 30 people last week, many of them young boys.
Saturday, March 26, 2016
Synchronicity can be so ironic
Why We Need HB 1337: A Story | One Thousand Words a WeekBECKER: Take the confluence of two events in my life recently.
First, the other morning, my daughter Joan sent me word about an effort her friend organized to raise awareness about (and funds for) Sedem, a Ghanaian boy with Down syndrome who requires heart surgery – just like Joan’s little brother, Nick, who also has Down’s and who required heart surgery when he turned one.
Later that same afternoon, I got an email alert about House Bill 1337 which, among other things, promotes alternatives to abortion for kids like Sedem and Nick. Governor Pence supports the bill, and apparently he’s getting hassled about it from doctors and pro-choice advocates.
First, the other morning, my daughter Joan sent me word about an effort her friend organized to raise awareness about (and funds for) Sedem, a Ghanaian boy with Down syndrome who requires heart surgery – just like Joan’s little brother, Nick, who also has Down’s and who required heart surgery when he turned one.
Later that same afternoon, I got an email alert about House Bill 1337 which, among other things, promotes alternatives to abortion for kids like Sedem and Nick. Governor Pence supports the bill, and apparently he’s getting hassled about it from doctors and pro-choice advocates.
Catholic Encyclopedia: The Resurrection of Jesus Christ
CATHOLIC ENCYCLOPEDIA: Resurrection of Jesus Christ: Resurrection is the rising again from the dead, the resumption of life. In this article, we shall treat only of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. (The General Resurrection of the Body will be covered in another article.) The fact of Christ's Resurrection, the theories opposed to this fact, its characteristics, and the reasons for its importance must be considered in distinct paragraphs.
8 things you need to know about Easter
8 things you need to know about Easter Sunday |Blogs | NCRegister.comAKIN: The great day is finally here: Easter, the most important day of the Christian calendar. More important even than Christmas.
What happened on this day?
Was Jesus' resurrection a real, historical event?
How does the Church celebrate this day?
Is Easter a pagan holiday?
Here are 8 things you need to know.
What happened on this day?
Was Jesus' resurrection a real, historical event?
How does the Church celebrate this day?
Is Easter a pagan holiday?
Here are 8 things you need to know.
Incredible drone footage of salmon migration in Alaska
New Advent: Incredible drone footage of salmon migration in Alaska: Fly high above Lake Iliamna, Alaska, following the crew of the Alaska Salmon Program as they conduct sockeye salmon surveys during one of the largest migrations in recent history.
The neurologists who fought Alzheimer's by studying nuns' brains
The Neurologists Who Fought Alzheimer's By Studying Nuns' Brains | Atlas Obscura: In Mankato, Minnesota, in 1991, David Snowden sat across from an 100-year-old nun named Sister Mary, administering a test. He asked her to remember a list of words, to draw geometric shapes, and she passed each exam while she talked and laughed, constantly aware.
After Sister Mary’s death at 102, a lab examined her brain. She had been alert and without memory loss; but instead of looking at a healthy brain, scientists saw one riddled with visible knots of protein—an indication of full-blown Alzheimer’s disease. Sister Mary was part of a new research project on Alzheimer’s called the Nun Study, and its findings not only shed light on the disease, but inspired the largest Alzheimer’s studies that exist today.
After Sister Mary’s death at 102, a lab examined her brain. She had been alert and without memory loss; but instead of looking at a healthy brain, scientists saw one riddled with visible knots of protein—an indication of full-blown Alzheimer’s disease. Sister Mary was part of a new research project on Alzheimer’s called the Nun Study, and its findings not only shed light on the disease, but inspired the largest Alzheimer’s studies that exist today.
The whole story of the universe is found in three words: “He is risen!”
The Whole Story of the Universe is Found in Three Words: “He is Risen!” |Blogs | NCRegister.comSTEFANICK: That one claim was made in a quiet cemetery in an outpost of the Roman Empire. It was carried on the trembling lips of a conformed harlot to a group of terrified fishermen. It was spoken in whispers. A secret too good to be true. Yet it was true. It is true. So true, in fact, that eyewitnesses died horrible deaths attesting to it. (You’ll find people who die for belief systems. Dying for an eyewitness testimony is vastly different than that!)
Within 300 years, this one true claim transformed the Roman Empire.
Within 300 years, this one true claim transformed the Roman Empire.
“The great day is finally here! We must announce the Risen One by our lives and by our love...”
Whispers in the Loggia: On Easter Night, "This Is The Foundation of Our Hope"COATOFARMS: “Peter ran to the tomb” (Lk 24:12). What thoughts crossed Peter’s mind and stirred his heart as he ran to the tomb? The Gospel tells us that the eleven, including Peter, had not believed the testimony of the women, their Easter proclamation. Quite the contrary, “these words seemed to them an idle tale” (v. 11). Thus there was doubt in Peter’s heart, together with many other worries: sadness at the death of the beloved Master and disillusionment for having denied him three times during his Passion.
Why no American coverage of the murder of the Muslim merchant in Glasgow?
Mirror image question: No American coverage of the murder of Muslim merchant in Glasgow? — GetReligionMATTINGLY: It's time, once again, to look at the mirror image of a story that is in the news. We are, of course, in the final days of Holy Week for Western churches.
Let's change the context and flip the key details to create our mirror-image case. Let's say that, somewhere in Europe, the following tragedy took place. It is days before Ramadan and a Christian merchant, extending a hand of fellowship during these tense times, posted a message extending good will and affection for his Muslim neighbors as they entered a holy season.
Hours later, in our hypothetical story, one or two Christians enter the man's shop and brutally murder him, stabbing him repeatedly and then stamping on his head.
Let's change the context and flip the key details to create our mirror-image case. Let's say that, somewhere in Europe, the following tragedy took place. It is days before Ramadan and a Christian merchant, extending a hand of fellowship during these tense times, posted a message extending good will and affection for his Muslim neighbors as they entered a holy season.
Hours later, in our hypothetical story, one or two Christians enter the man's shop and brutally murder him, stabbing him repeatedly and then stamping on his head.
My way gets brighter, my load gets lighter: A homily on the Easter Emmaus Gospel
My Way Gets Brighter, My Load Gets Lighter – A Homily on the Easter Emmaus Gospel - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: There are four different Gospels proposed by the Church for Easter Sunday. Here I offer a homily on the Lucan account of the two disciples on the road to Emmaus. In this homily I reflect on the Emmaus Gospel as a resurrection account, focusing on the journey of the two disciples out of darkness and into Easter light. (It is also clear that this whole Gospel account is a Mass, through and through, and I reflected on that aspect in another homily, available here
Italy's 'bleeding thorn' marks the coincidence of Good Friday, Annunciation
Italy's 'bleeding thorn' marks the coincidence of Good Friday, Annunciation :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): A single thorn held to have been taken from Christ's crown of thorns that traditionally 'bleeds' each time that Good Friday falls on March 25, has done so again this year.
Bishop Raffaele Calabro, Bishop Emeritus of Andria in Italy's Apulia region, confirmed today that the thorn has bled.
“The miracle has started, the wonder is underway,” Bishop Calabro stated.
The thorn has been kept in a reliquary in Andria's cathedral since 1308.
Bishop Raffaele Calabro, Bishop Emeritus of Andria in Italy's Apulia region, confirmed today that the thorn has bled.
“The miracle has started, the wonder is underway,” Bishop Calabro stated.
The thorn has been kept in a reliquary in Andria's cathedral since 1308.
"Something strange is happening": The greatest Holy Saturday sermon ever?
"Something Strange Is Happening": The Greatest Holy Saturday Sermon Ever? | ChurchPOPMILLEGAN: Most people know the meaning of Good Friday, the day when we remember that Jesus died on the cross for our sins. The same is true of Easter Sunday, when we remember that he rose from the dead in triumph over death.
But what about Holy Saturday. It can seem like it’s just stuck there in the middle. What does this day commemorate?
But what about Holy Saturday. It can seem like it’s just stuck there in the middle. What does this day commemorate?
The Jewishness of Easter, and the importance of keeping the lunar calendar
Easter -- Calendar Changes Could Threaten to Drain It of MeaningFRANKOVICH: Let them be for “seasons, and for days and years,” God says of the “lights made in the firmament of heaven” (Genesis 1:14). Easier said than done. Consider: The sun spins on its axis and revolves around the center of the Milky Way galaxy, and the earth and its sister planets go along for the ride. Meanwhile, the moon, a kind of middleman, our source of low-dosage sunlight during off hours, spins on its own axis and orbits the earth, which likewise spins while orbiting the sun.
Italy to change law to make all supermarkets give unsold food to needy
Italy to change law to make all supermarkets give unsold food to needy | Europe | News | The Independent: Italy will become the second European country to pass such laws after the French introduced a bill� in February� which� bans supermarket throwing away or spoiling unsold food.
The bill has recieved widespread bipartisan support and is expected to pass the lower house of the parliament� on Monday before a final vote in the Senate of the Republic.
The bill has recieved widespread bipartisan support and is expected to pass the lower house of the parliament� on Monday before a final vote in the Senate of the Republic.
29 of the most surreal landscapes on the planet
29 of the most surreal landscapes on the planet - ScienceAlert: Earth is full of bizarre landscapes. Some are land formations moulded over thousands of years, while others are human-made creations that have altered the planet in strange ways.
From the bubbling lava lakes of Ethiopia, to a lake that has been nestled in the desert for 2,000 years, here are 29 landscapes that are so incredible, it's hard to believe they're real.�
From the bubbling lava lakes of Ethiopia, to a lake that has been nestled in the desert for 2,000 years, here are 29 landscapes that are so incredible, it's hard to believe they're real.�
Google Maps moves the world's borders depending on who's looking
Google Maps Moves The World's Borders Depending On Who's Looking | Popular Science: Does Google Maps reflect national borders, or does it create them? What are the political and legal ramifications when a country disagrees with the map? That's what a new paper called Google's World, in the Columbia Journal of Transnational Law, examines.
Author Ethan R. Merel points out that "if a border is disputed by two or more states, the border as seen on Google’s services will adhere to the beliefs of Country A when accessed from within that country, while simultaneously adhering to the beliefs of Country B when accessed on its local servers."
Author Ethan R. Merel points out that "if a border is disputed by two or more states, the border as seen on Google’s services will adhere to the beliefs of Country A when accessed from within that country, while simultaneously adhering to the beliefs of Country B when accessed on its local servers."
Why the famous (and infamous) came home to the Catholic Church
NCRegister | Why the Famous (and Infamous) Came Home to the ChurchONEEL: Easter fast approaches, and with it comes a multitude of signs and symbols, all helping to bring home its import.
One of the most poignant of these takes place every year at the Easter vigil Mass, when converts come into the Church. Several thousand Americans are expecting to join this year, 880 in the Archdiocese of Cincinnati alone.
People embrace Catholicism for many reasons, as many as there are people who request reception every year.
Perhaps no single book better illustrates this than John Beaumont’s The Mississippi Flows Into the Tiber, in which he presents a cavalcade of converts in American history. Some are quite literally stars, of the Hollywood variety: Get Smart’s Don Adams, John Wayne (shown, bottom right), Gary Cooper, Faye Dunaway and “Buffalo Bill” Cody, to name just a few.
One of the most poignant of these takes place every year at the Easter vigil Mass, when converts come into the Church. Several thousand Americans are expecting to join this year, 880 in the Archdiocese of Cincinnati alone.
People embrace Catholicism for many reasons, as many as there are people who request reception every year.
Perhaps no single book better illustrates this than John Beaumont’s The Mississippi Flows Into the Tiber, in which he presents a cavalcade of converts in American history. Some are quite literally stars, of the Hollywood variety: Get Smart’s Don Adams, John Wayne (shown, bottom right), Gary Cooper, Faye Dunaway and “Buffalo Bill” Cody, to name just a few.
The “Homeless Jesus” statue and the New Evangelization
The “Homeless Jesus” statue and the New Evangelization | Catholic World Report - Global Church news and viewsTURLEY: Occasionally an artist emerges who is very much of his time and whose art is yet somehow timeless. One such artist working today has met with wide acclaim, which is all the more surprising given that the art in question is overtly Christian. The artist’s name is Tim Schmalz.
One day, Schmalz was driving through the downtown streets of Toronto. It was a day like any other: busy people, shoppers, workers going about their business with their own concerns, their own preoccupations, their own lives. The young sculptor was doing the same, but this day was to change his professional life. In the middle of the hustle and bustle he saw something, which turned out to be someone. A homeless man lying on a bench, covered in a blanket as the world hurried past. Schmalz was transfixed by this scene. It sparked a conversion, but not of faith—that had already taken place, as the once-wayward Schmalz had by this time returned to the Catholic faith of his upbringing. This conversion was to be one of artistic direction.
One day, Schmalz was driving through the downtown streets of Toronto. It was a day like any other: busy people, shoppers, workers going about their business with their own concerns, their own preoccupations, their own lives. The young sculptor was doing the same, but this day was to change his professional life. In the middle of the hustle and bustle he saw something, which turned out to be someone. A homeless man lying on a bench, covered in a blanket as the world hurried past. Schmalz was transfixed by this scene. It sparked a conversion, but not of faith—that had already taken place, as the once-wayward Schmalz had by this time returned to the Catholic faith of his upbringing. This conversion was to be one of artistic direction.
Does this laptop make me look fat?
Does This Laptop Make Me Look Fat? – Seasons of GraceSCHIFFER: This is a story of two spaces:
At the front of my house, in a corner of the living room that I affectionately refer to as my “office,” is my laptop. That is where I write or, more realistically, play around on Facebook, listen to music, read the news, and hang out for most of my waking hours.
And at the back of my house is a cheerful room with a couple of exercise machines. My husband uses the Nordic Track; and I—well, I prefer the Rower.
At the front of my house, in a corner of the living room that I affectionately refer to as my “office,” is my laptop. That is where I write or, more realistically, play around on Facebook, listen to music, read the news, and hang out for most of my waking hours.
And at the back of my house is a cheerful room with a couple of exercise machines. My husband uses the Nordic Track; and I—well, I prefer the Rower.
4 immediate results of our Lord's death on the Cross
Four Immediate Results of Jesus’ Death on the Cross - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: The significance of the tearing of the Temple curtain and the way in which it happened ought not to be underestimated. Consider that God had walked intimately with Adam and Eve in the garden in the cool of day (cf Gen 3:8), but that after sin, they could no longer endure His presence; they had to dwell apart from the paradise that featured God’s awesome presence. Consider, too, how terrifying theophanies (appearances of God to human beings) were after that time. For example, the appearance of God on the top of Mt Sinai is described in the Book of Exodus...
Holy Saturday 2016: “The gospel was preached even to the dead”
12 things you need to know about Holy Saturday |Blogs | NCRegister.comAKIN: Every time we say the creed, we note that Jesus "descended into hell."
Holy Saturday is the day that commemorates this event.
What happened on this day, and how do we celebrate it?
Here are 12 things you need to know.
Holy Saturday is the day that commemorates this event.
What happened on this day, and how do we celebrate it?
Here are 12 things you need to know.
Welcome home, fellow converts—and may Christ's truth sustain you always!
Welcome Home, Fellow Converts, and May Truth Sustain You Always! |Blogs | NCRegister.comALT: I extend a very happy “Welcome Home” to all those who will be received into full communion with the Catholic Church at the Easter Vigil Saturday evening. As an RCIA team member, I have listened to the emotions of new Catholics, after the Vigil, as they recalled making their first Eucharist. In them there is one feeling, unmistakable and common to them all: joy, often to the point of tears that would not be refused. I have not met, in my years working with RCIA and after, the Catholic convert who does not experience that same joy. Nor have I met the convert who, even after many years, does not get a glimmer of that same joy in their eyes when recalling their own conversion story.
“Glorious to be Catholic”: Impressions of the Anglican Ordinariate's historic first Chrism Mass
“Glorious to be Catholic”: Anglican Ordinariate's First Chrism Mass Makes History |Blogs | NCRegister.comHAYS: Many Catholics go their whole lives long without ever once witnessing a Chrism Mass, the yearly Mass at which bishop blesses the holy oils to be used during the year, and the priests of his diocese renew their promises. This is a pity, since the Chrism Mass is a beautiful experience that every Catholic should have.�
I was blown away last week by the Chrism Mass at my parish. Into the bargain, it was a truly historic event—the first Chrism Mass celebrated by a bishop appointed by Rome to lead a group of Christians who were formerly separated by the Protestant Reformation and yet are now happily and fully returned to Holy Mother Church. We are a parish of the Personal Ordinariate of the Chair of St. Peter, as the Ordinariate for the U.S. and Canada is designated.
I was blown away last week by the Chrism Mass at my parish. Into the bargain, it was a truly historic event—the first Chrism Mass celebrated by a bishop appointed by Rome to lead a group of Christians who were formerly separated by the Protestant Reformation and yet are now happily and fully returned to Holy Mother Church. We are a parish of the Personal Ordinariate of the Chair of St. Peter, as the Ordinariate for the U.S. and Canada is designated.
Friday, March 25, 2016
Infographic: St. Josemaría's reflections on the 14 Stations of the Cross
My Life and the 14 Stations of the Cross: Praying the Stations of the Cross is a devotion centered on the main events of the Passion of our Lord. �If you have not yet done the Stations during the Fridays of Lent, we encourage you to take the opportunity on Good Friday. �In fact, I dare say that we can identify (clearly to a lesser extent) with many of the feelings and experiences of the Lord on his way to Calvary: pain, betrayal, loneliness, falls, comfort, help, etc.
What makes Good Friday extra special in 2016?
What Makes This Good Friday Extra Special? - The Imaginative ConservativePEARCE: Good Friday is very special. It is not only a “good” day, it is perhaps the best of all days, at least when taken in conjunction with Easter Sunday. It is, after all, the day on which we are redeemed from sin and become inheritors of the Kingdom of Heaven. Days don’t get any better than that! And yet I am tempted to claim, indeed I’m tempted to exclaim, that this particular Good Friday is extra special, that it has something about it that most other Good Fridays don’t have. In making such a claim, I expect to raise the eyebrows and perhaps even the ire of those who understand the supreme significance of this holiest of days. How can one Good Friday be better than any other? How can anyone claim that this year will be a Very Good Friday, whereas last year was only a Fairly Good Friday? Heaven forbid that anyone should say such a thing!
Why is Christianity the best religion?
Why is Christianity is the Best Religion?LONGENECKER: I know. I know. This is not really politically correct.
You’re supposed to pretend that all religions are equal. The comparative religions professor (who has comparatively no religion) teaches that all religions are human inventions based on interesting and unique historical circumstances and cultures. The theory is that religions developed from animism when cavemen grunted at the sun, moon and stars and made up stories about the people who lived there. Then these stories became myths and they started making sacrifices to the sky people and then they made more stories and eventually they added rules and so all the different religions just developed.
You’re supposed to pretend that all religions are equal. The comparative religions professor (who has comparatively no religion) teaches that all religions are human inventions based on interesting and unique historical circumstances and cultures. The theory is that religions developed from animism when cavemen grunted at the sun, moon and stars and made up stories about the people who lived there. Then these stories became myths and they started making sacrifices to the sky people and then they made more stories and eventually they added rules and so all the different religions just developed.
Please pray for Father Tom Uzhunnalil
Please Pray for Fr. Tom |Blogs | NCRegister.comMATTARCHBOLD: Fr. Tom Uzhunnalil, a prisoner of a barbaric group with possible ties to ISIS, could be crucified today on Good Friday.
Although there are many conflicting reports, please pray for Fr. Tom.
The Franciscan Sisters of Siessen reportedly recently posted on Facebook that they were “informed that the Salesian priest, Fr. Tom, who was kidnapped by ISIS from the Missionaries of Charity Home in Yemen is being tortured and is going to be crucified on Good Friday. This calls for serious concerted prayers from all of us.”
Although there are many conflicting reports, please pray for Fr. Tom.
The Franciscan Sisters of Siessen reportedly recently posted on Facebook that they were “informed that the Salesian priest, Fr. Tom, who was kidnapped by ISIS from the Missionaries of Charity Home in Yemen is being tortured and is going to be crucified on Good Friday. This calls for serious concerted prayers from all of us.”
Future Friday: The religion of the future
Future Friday: The Religion of the Future - Thy Geekdom ComeMURPHY: The time is now for the Church to go into battle for souls against this latest antichrist, armed to the teeth not only with faith, but also with science and the personalism of St. John Paul II, which arose in history just in time for this fight. Scientific knowledge and a genuine appreciation for good and ethical scientific advancements will help us to steer society toward technology that truly serves the moral good of humanity. Personalism – which posits that all human persons are worthy of love – will temper and tame secular humanism. Faith, hope, and charity will, as always, convince the world that it is the Church, not the world or secular humanism or technological advancement, that has the fulfillment of our longing. We need to anticipate this new anti-Christianity; Christ alone is Savior. Christ alone, not man, is Messiah.
St. Thomas Aquinas' explanation of “Father, let this chalice pass from me”
Father let this chalice pass from me | Classical Catholic EducationLANGLEY: Rather than voicing a prayer expressing fear, Our Lord prays that we, his disciples—indeed all Christians, will embrace the cross as he did. Out of love for us he prays with an infallibly effective prayer to the Father that we his friends will not fail to follow his path.
He prays that we will drink the chalice from which he drinks. That it will pass from Him to us. He prays that we will not fail to take up the cross and join with him in the salvation of our souls.
He prays that we will drink the chalice from which he drinks. That it will pass from Him to us. He prays that we will not fail to take up the cross and join with him in the salvation of our souls.
Good Friday 2016: “Christ became obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross”
CATHOLIC ENCYCLOPEDIA: Good Friday: Good Friday, called Feria VI in Parasceve in the Roman Missal, he hagia kai megale paraskeue (the Holy and Great Friday) in the Greek Liturgy, Holy Friday in Romance Languages, Charfreitag (Sorrowful Friday) in German, is the English designation of Friday in Holy Week — that is, the Friday on which the Church keeps the anniversary of the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
Thursday, March 24, 2016
The Ultimate MythBusters Summary: A catalog of more than 1,000 myths tested on the show
MythBusters Results - List of Myths and Summaries: The MythBusters tested over 1,000 distinct myths in 271 hour-long episodes spanning 14 years, resulting in a vast amount of information about common myths and interesting phenomena. The following overview attempts to summarize and categorize the results of the entire MythBusters series as succinctly as possible.
All our efforts to shear away unnecessary and uncharitable words are not in vain
On Silence | The Philology Institute: Have you ever been at home when the power goes out? I have. The silence is startling. I didn’t even know I could hear the refrigerator—until I couldn’t. I never noticed the soft hum of the lightbulbs—until it stopped. The other day I was walking down a normally busy city street when they had the roads blocked off. I had never realized how loud the traffic was because I never knew how quiet the street could be without it. Some babies sleep with a machine on—for “white noise”—because complete silence is too unnerving.
Tonight I will kiss feet
Tonight I Will Kiss FeetLONGENECKER: Tonight’s liturgy is the most poignant and tender of the year. We gather to commemorate the Lord’s Supper, and at the heart of the liturgy is the solemn ceremony of washing feet.
The ceremony adds weight to the Chrism Mass earlier in the day when the priestly ministry is re-affirmed because the twelve men whose feet are being washed represent the twelve apostles. The other �(and more important) emphasis is on Christ the servant. To show that he is among us�“as one who serves” the priest kneels to wash feet, and part of the washing of the feet is traditionally to kiss each foot.
Why feet, and why does this ultimate act of service touch my heart so each year?
The ceremony adds weight to the Chrism Mass earlier in the day when the priestly ministry is re-affirmed because the twelve men whose feet are being washed represent the twelve apostles. The other �(and more important) emphasis is on Christ the servant. To show that he is among us�“as one who serves” the priest kneels to wash feet, and part of the washing of the feet is traditionally to kiss each foot.
Why feet, and why does this ultimate act of service touch my heart so each year?
Who gets to define 'sin'? Press caught up in debate over a narrow freedom of 'worship'...
Who gets to define 'sin'? Press caught up in debate over a narrow freedom of 'worship' — GetReligionMATTINGLY: Long ago, the mid-1980s to be precise, I covered a Colorado dispute involving religious freedom. The spark that lit the fuse was a state tax official's decision to rule that the "worship" that took place inside church doors was "religious," and thus tax exempt, while what happened inside non-profit religious ministries (think day-care centers) was not truly "religious."
This claim produced a scream of legal rage from leaders in religious denominations and groups, both on the left and right. Everyone agreed that state officials had no right to get entangled (there is that word again) in determining what was "religious" and what was not (outside the usual limits of fraud, profit and clear threat to life and health). The state was not supposed to decide that "worship" was religious, while caring for children (and teaching them Bible lessons) was not.
This claim produced a scream of legal rage from leaders in religious denominations and groups, both on the left and right. Everyone agreed that state officials had no right to get entangled (there is that word again) in determining what was "religious" and what was not (outside the usual limits of fraud, profit and clear threat to life and health). The state was not supposed to decide that "worship" was religious, while caring for children (and teaching them Bible lessons) was not.
In rare Holy Thursday appointment, Pope names Bernard Hebda as Archbishop of Saint Paul and Minneapolis
Whispers in the Loggia: Feeling the "Bern," For Good – Pope Names Hebda as Twin Cities ArchbishopPALMO: Amid an epic storm of clerical misconduct and mishandling of allegations that's engulfed the Twin Cities church in criminal charges, Chapter 11 bankruptcy, some 400 lawsuits and a lack of morale that's birthed ecclesial "paralysis," this Holy Thursday brings the 850,000-member fold a richly-deserved Easter gift: the new archbishop, and one who can hit the ground running immediately... because he's already there.
“Jesus Christ heals our memories”
'Jesus Christ heals our memories': The following excerpt is from my friend Dawn Eden's latest book, Remembering God's Mercy: Redeem the Past and Free Yourself from Painful Memories. Thanks to Dawn and Ave Maria Press for allowing me to publish this excerpt in my column.
On Holy Thursday, we remember Jesus' gift of Himself in the Eucharist
On Holy Thursday, We Remember Jesus' Gift of Himself in the Eucharist |Blogs | NCRegister.comSCHIFFER: Isn’t this one of those areas where we can just agree to disagree?
Jesus didn’t think so.
Do you remember when Jesus first introduced the idea of eating his flesh? In John 6:53, he said,
“I tell you the truth, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you.”
And what happened then? Many were troubled and turned away, and walked with him no longer. Jesus lost many followers with this hard saying; but he didn’t say “Wait, guys, I was only kidding!” He didn’t call them back, explaining that he was speaking only metaphorically. Nope, Jesus let them go. It was too important that his followers fully understand the great gift he was about to leave for us, the gift of himself.
Jesus didn’t think so.
Do you remember when Jesus first introduced the idea of eating his flesh? In John 6:53, he said,
“I tell you the truth, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you.”
And what happened then? Many were troubled and turned away, and walked with him no longer. Jesus lost many followers with this hard saying; but he didn’t say “Wait, guys, I was only kidding!” He didn’t call them back, explaining that he was speaking only metaphorically. Nope, Jesus let them go. It was too important that his followers fully understand the great gift he was about to leave for us, the gift of himself.
Stealing the show: Of Esther, Veggie Tales, and spotting the divine
Stealing the Show: Of Esther, Veggie Tales, and Spotting the Divine |Blogs | NCRegister.comBECKER: “Queen Esther, seized with mortal anguish,” the lector proclaimed last month, “had recourse to the LORD.” I grabbed the missalette from the rack, thumbed through it to the right date, and scanned the rubric with a grin: Esther C:12, 14-16, 23-25. That’s no typo – the reference really does include a letter “C” instead of a chapter number.
That’s because our translated Catholic version of the Book of Esther relies on a bifurcated organizational scheme that reflects its hybrid Greek and Hebrew sources. The most ancient surviving Hebrew version of the tale is shorter than the later Greek version found in the Septuagint, and it’s the Greek version that embedded itself in our liturgy and hence in the Catholic canon of Sacred Scripture – an historical embrace made formal by the Council of Trent in the sixteenth century.
That’s because our translated Catholic version of the Book of Esther relies on a bifurcated organizational scheme that reflects its hybrid Greek and Hebrew sources. The most ancient surviving Hebrew version of the tale is shorter than the later Greek version found in the Septuagint, and it’s the Greek version that embedded itself in our liturgy and hence in the Catholic canon of Sacred Scripture – an historical embrace made formal by the Council of Trent in the sixteenth century.
Wednesday, March 23, 2016
The fascinating story behind the Crotalus, the rarest of liturgical devices
The Fascinating Story Behind the Rarest of Liturgical Devices: the Crotalus | ChurchPOPMILLEGAN: In the Roman Rite, altar bells are not supposed to be rung after the Gloria in the liturgy on the evening of Holy Thursday, and are supposed to remain unused until the Gloria on Holy Saturday. This is supposed to make things more somber as we remember the passion and death of our Lord Jesus Christ.
But, during this short period of time, is anything supposed to take its place? That’s where the crotalus comes in. The Church’s liturgical rubrics don’t prescribe a replacement for altar bells, but there is a long-standing tradition of using a wooden clapper or noise-maker in its place. This serves to both mark the same events as the altar bells, but in a less “sweet” way and thus maintain the somber tone.
But, during this short period of time, is anything supposed to take its place? That’s where the crotalus comes in. The Church’s liturgical rubrics don’t prescribe a replacement for altar bells, but there is a long-standing tradition of using a wooden clapper or noise-maker in its place. This serves to both mark the same events as the altar bells, but in a less “sweet” way and thus maintain the somber tone.
A prescription for life, given by Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane
A Prescription for Life, Given by Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: Temptation is the work of Satan to drag you to Hell. Are you clear on that? If you’re not watching and praying, you’re defenseless; you’re an easy target; you’re low hanging fruit; you’re probably not going to make it. If you do not pray, Jesus warns that you will give way to temptation. That is, Satan will be able to drag you off to Hell and probably others along with you.
Divided Supreme Court hears Little Sisters' case
Divided Supreme Court hears Little Sisters' case :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): The Little Sisters of the Poor and other religious charities should be free to carry out their ministries without having to violate their religious beliefs, plaintiffs argued at the Supreme Court on Wednesday.�
“This morning we heard the justices of the Supreme Court comment on the fact that members of many minority religions across the country have stood with the Little Sisters of the Poor, asking the government to do the very simple and right thing here, which is just if the government wants to provide these [contraceptive] services, the government is free to provide them,” stated Mark Rienzi, lead attorney for the Little Sisters of the Poor, at a press conference outside the Court after the oral arguments in Zubik v. Burwell. �
“This morning we heard the justices of the Supreme Court comment on the fact that members of many minority religions across the country have stood with the Little Sisters of the Poor, asking the government to do the very simple and right thing here, which is just if the government wants to provide these [contraceptive] services, the government is free to provide them,” stated Mark Rienzi, lead attorney for the Little Sisters of the Poor, at a press conference outside the Court after the oral arguments in Zubik v. Burwell. �
The readings of Holy Thursday
Father James V. Schall, S.J. | Catholic PulseSCHALL: Holy Thursday begins the yearly Triduum to commemorate the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Christ. The liturgy of the day differs in several ways. Priests do not say Mass except when they concelebrate it with their bishop or in community. We have the ceremony of the washing of the feet. At the end of Mass, the remaining hosts in the Tabernacle are carried to strains of the haunting "Pange Lingua" to an altar of repose. The main altar is then stripped of its remaining cloths. Very often in the morning of this day, the local bishop with his clergy assemble for a Chrism Mass at which the sacred oils to be used in the following year are freshly blessed — oils used in Baptism, Confirmation, Holy Orders, and the Sacrament of the Sick.
Creation, the Cross and Christ’s conception
Creation, the Cross and Christ’s Conception | Daily News | NCRegister.comDESOUZA: When Good Friday falls on March 25, an ancient Christian intuition about God’s initiative in history — creation, incarnation and redemption — is given unique expression. And how often does this happen? Rarely. It happened in 1921, 1932, 2005 and now 2016. And it won’t happen again this century.
It is of further interest that the first Holy Week in the life of John Paul II (Karol Wojtyla, born May 1920) was 1921, with its March 25 Good Friday — as was his last in 2005, when the whole world accompanied him in his final days. Now the same Holy Week calendar that accompanied the great “Pope of Mercy” at the beginning and end of his life returns for the Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy. What do we learn from these extraordinary dates?
It is of further interest that the first Holy Week in the life of John Paul II (Karol Wojtyla, born May 1920) was 1921, with its March 25 Good Friday — as was his last in 2005, when the whole world accompanied him in his final days. Now the same Holy Week calendar that accompanied the great “Pope of Mercy” at the beginning and end of his life returns for the Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy. What do we learn from these extraordinary dates?
7 things every homeowner should know the location of
7 Things Every Homeowner Should Know the Location Of | The Art of Manliness: As a homeowner, there are certain maintenance tasks, safety features, and basic pieces of knowledge about your property which you should know like the back of your hand. When your washer springs a leak, do you know where the water shut-off is? When your teenage daughters have overloaded a bathroom outlet, do you know where your electrical panel is to flip the breaker switch? When you’re thinking of building a new fence, do you know your property line so you don’t get into a kerfuffle with a neighbor?
Mary’s message for Belgium was given at Beauraing and Banneux
Mary’s Message for Belgium: Beauraing and BanneuxLOONEY: With a heavy heart, I learned of the terrorist attacks in Brussels that occurred yesterday, March 22. Belgium is a country that found a place in my heart after I visited that great nation in January 2015. Among the reasons why I journeyed to Belgium is that lot of my research has focused on one particular Belgian woman named Adele Brise, who immigrated to the United States and then, in 1859, received three apparitions of the Queen of Heaven. I traced Adele’s footsteps in Belgium as I visited the places pertinent to her life, but I was also there to research an obscure devotion to Mary, as well as to better understand the Marian devotions of Belgium.
The winter of prayer is present in many souls. But spring will surely come...
H�tte Trip: the Winter of Prayer - OneBillionStories.comDEMOOR: Learning to love winter can be a challenge for many people. The darkness, the cold, the quiet characteristics can feel daunting at times, and lonely. The winter of the seasons, and the winter of prayer, are often present in many lives. But without the winter, there would be no spring. Learning to appreciate the beauty of winter is a key element of the spiritual life. �Let us embrace the spiritual winter of our lives, so that we may be restored and filled up with the needed grace to go out into the world with faith, hope, and love.
The order and symmetry of the Rosary
The Order and Symmetry in the Rosary : The Integrated Catholic Life™TRASANCOS: I have been praying the Rosary ever since a lady named “Cookie” sent me a hand-made set of beads in the mail as a gift. I remember looking at the necklace contraption wondering what exactly one is supposed to do with it.
What am I supposed to pray for?
What happens if I don’t do it correctly?
Why do I have to pray these prayers in this order?
I remember the day I asked my husband those questions in our kitchen, and his answer was characteristically concise. “Just pray, Honey.”
So, mostly out of a desire to appreciate the gift Cookie sent me, I picked up the plastic beads and prayer card and headed out for a walk, feeling kind of goofy meandering down the street, feigning prayers. By that point in my journey of faith, I had learned at least one simple truth: Even the smallest acts of faith require a little faith.
What am I supposed to pray for?
What happens if I don’t do it correctly?
Why do I have to pray these prayers in this order?
I remember the day I asked my husband those questions in our kitchen, and his answer was characteristically concise. “Just pray, Honey.”
So, mostly out of a desire to appreciate the gift Cookie sent me, I picked up the plastic beads and prayer card and headed out for a walk, feeling kind of goofy meandering down the street, feigning prayers. By that point in my journey of faith, I had learned at least one simple truth: Even the smallest acts of faith require a little faith.
10 things you need to know about Holy Thursday
10 things you need to know about Holy Thursday |Blogs | NCRegister.comAKIN: Every single Mass, we hear the words "on the night he was betrayed."
That night was Holy Thursday, and it is one of the most important nights in all of history.
Here are 10 things you need to know. So what happened on the original Holy Thursday?
An amazing amount of stuff! This was one of the most pivotal days in the life of Jesus Christ.
Here are some of the things the gospels record for this day (including events that happened after midnight)...
That night was Holy Thursday, and it is one of the most important nights in all of history.
Here are 10 things you need to know. So what happened on the original Holy Thursday?
An amazing amount of stuff! This was one of the most pivotal days in the life of Jesus Christ.
Here are some of the things the gospels record for this day (including events that happened after midnight)...
The nearly invisible wires that enclose nearly all major cities of the world
The Nearly Invisible Wires That Enclose Nearly All Major Cities of The World | Amusing Planet: Unbeknownst to many, there are translucent fishing lines that wrap around hundreds of cities around the world. Strung high above the heads of pedestrians and roofs of houses, on utility poles and lamp posts, these wires are barely visible and hardly affect the lives of millions that live in these cities. But for the orthodox Jews, these imperceptible wires that run for dozens of miles, mark an important religious boundary that allow the devoted to hold on to their faith.
“In the absence of faith, we govern by tenderness. And tenderness leads to the gas chamber...”
How Tenderness Leads to the Gas ChamberLONGENECKER: People who have left the Christian faith wish to retain the remnants of the Christian faith. They want beauty without truth. They want spirituality without religion. They want forgiveness without sacrifice and they want a life that has tenderness without toughness. They want Christianity without a cross, compassion without control and charity without discipline.
The liberal West has been driving on the fumes of Christianity for about a century now and the car won’t go much further.
We think all that matters is being tolerant, kind, compassionate, forgiving and by that what we mean is that we let anybody do whatever they want however they want because personal freedom is all that matters and “who am I to judge?”
The liberal West has been driving on the fumes of Christianity for about a century now and the car won’t go much further.
We think all that matters is being tolerant, kind, compassionate, forgiving and by that what we mean is that we let anybody do whatever they want however they want because personal freedom is all that matters and “who am I to judge?”
Why is the Wednesday of Holy Week called “Spy Wednesday”?
Why “Spy”? | catholicsaintsguyONEEL: Today is known as Holy Wednesday. That name is obvious enough because it is, after all, Wednesday in Holy Week.
But its traditional name is Spy Wednesday. Why “Spy”?
It would be neat if history gave us some super-mysto reason behind it, but it hasn’t. And the reason it hasn’t is that the name comes from a very simple fact. This is the day on which Judas – sneaky guy that he was – became a spy for the Sanhedrin and agreed to betray His Lord and Savior for 30 pieces of silver. You can read about it in Matthew 26:12-14, Mark 14:10-12, and Luke 22:3-6.
But its traditional name is Spy Wednesday. Why “Spy”?
It would be neat if history gave us some super-mysto reason behind it, but it hasn’t. And the reason it hasn’t is that the name comes from a very simple fact. This is the day on which Judas – sneaky guy that he was – became a spy for the Sanhedrin and agreed to betray His Lord and Savior for 30 pieces of silver. You can read about it in Matthew 26:12-14, Mark 14:10-12, and Luke 22:3-6.
A dying friend, the Mass and the witness in the pub
A Dying Friend, the Mass and the Witness in the Pub - Top Stories - Aleteia.org – Worldwide Catholic Network Sharing Faith Resources for those seeking Truth – Aleteia.orgMILLS: Someone very dear to me was rushed to the emergency room two Sundays ago and found to be dying. My wife and I drove out to be with him and have sat for hours in his room on the cancer ward. We’ve watched Spongebob Squarepants with him, listened with him to the professionally cheerful nurses and the slightly evasive doctor, paced the hallway when he had to suffer the more undignified parts of being cared for. We brought him home on Saturday and settled him in.
This has made me angrier than perhaps anything else in my entire life. I’ve said things to the cosmos involving various forms of the worst word you can think of. He does not deserve this. Later, okay, but not now, not for years.
This has made me angrier than perhaps anything else in my entire life. I’ve said things to the cosmos involving various forms of the worst word you can think of. He does not deserve this. Later, okay, but not now, not for years.
Entangled in doctrine? Will journalists even mention a key fact in the HHS mandate cases?
Entangled in doctrine? Will journalists even mention a key fact in HHS mandate cases? — GetReligionMATTINGLY: Once again, it's time for a landmark event linked to America's ongoing conflicts between the First Amendment and the Sexual Revolution. In terms of journalism, the key question is whether elite news organizations will actually include in their coverage one of the key facts in these arguments.
So now we await the coverage of today's U.S. Supreme Court discussions related to seven cases in which religious schools and ministries have opposed Obamacare. These religious organizations claim the government is forcing them to cooperate in efforts to undercut doctrines that help define their organizations and their work.
So now we await the coverage of today's U.S. Supreme Court discussions related to seven cases in which religious schools and ministries have opposed Obamacare. These religious organizations claim the government is forcing them to cooperate in efforts to undercut doctrines that help define their organizations and their work.
Abortion lobby targets Catholic hospital for refusing sterilization
Abortion lobby targets Catholic hospital for refusing sterilization | News | LifeSite: Another Catholic hospital is drawing fire for upholding Catholic principles in patient care.
St. Anthony Summit Medical Center in Frisco, Colorado, declined to permit Jennifer Versailles' doctor to sterilize her after her March 15 Cesarean section, according to an RH Reality Check report, prompting an international abortion activist group to claim the hospital was breaking federal and state law and allege sexual discrimination as well.
The Center for Reproductive Rights (CRR) took what's become regular aim at the U.S. bishops' guidelines for Catholic health care institutions to maintain Catholic morals in treatment approach, also charging that the hospital put the patient at risk due to the Catholic principles.
St. Anthony Summit Medical Center in Frisco, Colorado, declined to permit Jennifer Versailles' doctor to sterilize her after her March 15 Cesarean section, according to an RH Reality Check report, prompting an international abortion activist group to claim the hospital was breaking federal and state law and allege sexual discrimination as well.
The Center for Reproductive Rights (CRR) took what's become regular aim at the U.S. bishops' guidelines for Catholic health care institutions to maintain Catholic morals in treatment approach, also charging that the hospital put the patient at risk due to the Catholic principles.
What are you doing in May? This 3-day Catholic gathering in Colorado will be no ordinary conference...
Aspen Catholic: Seeing the great need for mercy and healing in the world, Pope Francis has called for a Holy Year or Jubilee Year, for the Catholic Church. It is a time for you to focus on the Lord’s forgiveness and healing in your life and to respond to Pope Francis’ call to engage the world with its message of mercy. Over the course of three days we will hear from dynamic speakers, experience the beauty of nature, and deepen our relationship with God.
At Holy Week audience, Pope prays for Belgium and says Triduum ‘speaks of mercy’
At Holy Week Audience, Pope Prays for Belgium and Says Triduum ‘Speaks of Mercy’ | Daily News | NCRegister.com: In his general audience the day after terrorist attacks in Belgium claimed the lives of at least 31 people and injured more than 270, Pope Francis led pilgrims in a moment of silent prayer for the victims and their families.
“With a sorrowful heart I have followed the sad news of the terrorist attacks which took place yesterday in Brussels and which caused numerous victims and wounded,” the Pope said March 23.
Assuring his prayer for the victims and their families, he appealed to all people of goodwill “to unite themselves in the unanimous condemnation of these cruel abominations, which are causing only death, terror and horror.”
“With a sorrowful heart I have followed the sad news of the terrorist attacks which took place yesterday in Brussels and which caused numerous victims and wounded,” the Pope said March 23.
Assuring his prayer for the victims and their families, he appealed to all people of goodwill “to unite themselves in the unanimous condemnation of these cruel abominations, which are causing only death, terror and horror.”
UK demands return of St. Joan of Arc's ring, recently recovered by France
UK Demands Return of Joan of Arc’s Ring, Recently Recovered by France - Society - Aleteia.org – Worldwide Catholic Network Sharing Faith Resources for those seeking Truth – Aleteia.orgSCALIA: The saga of Saint Joan of Arc, is well known: the 15th Century teenager from Orléans, France, discerned a call from heaven to lead the French army to victory against England. Upon her capture at Compiègne, she was subjected to trial and was eventually burned at the stake
What is rarely mentioned in her story is the fact that during her trial, in 1431, a ring — given to her by her parents on the occasion of her First Holy Communion — was stolen from Joan, and it has remained in Britain for nearly six centuries.
What is rarely mentioned in her story is the fact that during her trial, in 1431, a ring — given to her by her parents on the occasion of her First Holy Communion — was stolen from Joan, and it has remained in Britain for nearly six centuries.
Tuesday, March 22, 2016
Who would ever have expected a Theology of the Body mention in Cosmo? And yet, there it is...
Cosmo discovers Theology of the Body – Aleteia.org – Worldwide Catholic Network Sharing Faith Resources for those seeking Truth – Aleteia.orgFISHER: “I’m waiting for marriage” for sex, say three young women interviewed in . . . Cosmopolitan? Yes, that Cosmopolitan, the pink trash women’s magazine that’s been screaming sad and ridiculous sex advice at supermarket shoppers for as long as we can remember.
Curiouser and curiouser, the abstinent women in the article aren’t presented as zealots, oddities, or hopeless naifs, and the premise isn’t “vigins are inherently laughable and undesirable.” They’re allowed to explain in their own words why they’re abstinent and how it plays out. Here’s how the interviews are introduced
Curiouser and curiouser, the abstinent women in the article aren’t presented as zealots, oddities, or hopeless naifs, and the premise isn’t “vigins are inherently laughable and undesirable.” They’re allowed to explain in their own words why they’re abstinent and how it plays out. Here’s how the interviews are introduced
This Holy Week, pick out your socks SLOWLY...
Pick out Your Socks SLOWLY This Holy Week - Top Stories - Aleteia.org – Worldwide Catholic Network Sharing Faith Resources for those seeking Truth – Aleteia.orgNOBLE: This Lent has been a whirlwind.
The circus-like atmosphere of the election season, traveling, and work has kept me busy and distracted.
The other day a local L’Arche community came to our convent and gave a presentation. L’Arche is a worldwide movement founded by Jean Vanier in which people with developmental disabilities or “core members” live together with “assistants” in a familial, homey atmosphere.
During the presentation, one of the assistants, Emma, shared an experience she had helping a core member named Katie pick out a pair of socks for the day.
The circus-like atmosphere of the election season, traveling, and work has kept me busy and distracted.
The other day a local L’Arche community came to our convent and gave a presentation. L’Arche is a worldwide movement founded by Jean Vanier in which people with developmental disabilities or “core members” live together with “assistants” in a familial, homey atmosphere.
During the presentation, one of the assistants, Emma, shared an experience she had helping a core member named Katie pick out a pair of socks for the day.
A meditation on the betrayal of Christ by Judas
Meditations on the Betrayal: This trouble in the holy soul and spirit of Jesus deserves careful attention. What we first notice is its cause: “one of you will betray me.” The treason of one of his disciples causes Jesus this interior trouble. What troubles him in general, then, is sin, and especially the sins of those who were most closely united to him, like Judas, whom he had placed in the ranks of his Apostles. His Passion — by which he would destroy sin — would be the occasion for so many new crimes, enormous and unprecedented crimes such as the treason of Judas, the inhumanity and ingratitude of the Jews, and, in a word, deicide. It was the thought of these crimes that brought him such interior trouble and made some of the bitterest dregs of the chalice he had to drink.
"Our Lady of the Rockies": The miraculous story behind Montana's 90-foot statue of Mary
"Our Lady of the Rockies": The Miraculous Story Behind Montana's 90-ft Statue of Mary | ChurchPOPSEWELL: One of the most picturesque views in Montana comes into focus when rounding the bend on eastbound Interstate 90, about 6 miles from the historic city of Butte. On the towering East Ridge overlooking the city sits the third-tallest statue in America: a 90-foot-tall homage to the Blessed Virgin Mary, brilliantly white and perched 3500 feet above the valley floor, known as Our Lady of the Rockies.
Her story began in 1979 with Butte resident Bob O’Bill, whose wife was nearing death from cancer. O’Bill, who for many years worked as electrician in one of Butte’s surface mines, prayed that his wife be healed, and promised to build a 5-foot statue of Mary in his yard if God answered.
Her story began in 1979 with Butte resident Bob O’Bill, whose wife was nearing death from cancer. O’Bill, who for many years worked as electrician in one of Butte’s surface mines, prayed that his wife be healed, and promised to build a 5-foot statue of Mary in his yard if God answered.
Debunking the debunkers: how the best scholarly evidence confirms the Gospels
Debunking the debunkers: how the best scholarly evidence confirms the Gospels | Catholic CultureLAWLER: Any day now, a major media outlet will release a feature story which, with a great deal of promotional ballyhoo, will claim to call into question the ordinary Christian understanding of the Gospel story. It’s become an annual tradition: as Easter approaches, and secular journalists look for an exciting new angle, an enterprising scholar offers his own latest theory to debunk the faith.
The nature of the scholarly theory differs from year to year. It may be the reported discovery of a new gospel, or of a grave that is said to contain the remains of Jesus. Or it may simply be a new interpretation of familiar Bible verses. Sometimes the theory comes from the “Jesus Seminar,” a cabal of academics committed to reinterpreting the Gospels. Sometimes the stories can be traced to theorists with no real academic background: intellectual loners with their own pet projects.
The nature of the scholarly theory differs from year to year. It may be the reported discovery of a new gospel, or of a grave that is said to contain the remains of Jesus. Or it may simply be a new interpretation of familiar Bible verses. Sometimes the theory comes from the “Jesus Seminar,” a cabal of academics committed to reinterpreting the Gospels. Sometimes the stories can be traced to theorists with no real academic background: intellectual loners with their own pet projects.
6 things you need to know about the Triduum
6 things you need to know about Triduum |Blogs | NCRegister.comAKIN: We are about to leave Lent and enter the liturgical season known as "Triduum."
What is this season, and why is it does the Church say that it is "the culmination of the entire liturgical year"?
Here are 6 things you need to know. According to the main document governing the celebrations connected with Easter, Paschales Solemnitatis:
This time is called the triduum of the crucified, buried and risen; it is also called the Easter Triduum because during it is celebrated the Paschal Mystery, that is, the passing of the Lord from this world to his Father.
What is this season, and why is it does the Church say that it is "the culmination of the entire liturgical year"?
Here are 6 things you need to know. According to the main document governing the celebrations connected with Easter, Paschales Solemnitatis:
This time is called the triduum of the crucified, buried and risen; it is also called the Easter Triduum because during it is celebrated the Paschal Mystery, that is, the passing of the Lord from this world to his Father.
The Chrism Mass and 3 sacramental oils explained
The Chrism Mass and Sacramental Oils Explained | TOM PERNAPERNA: Last night, I traveled across the city of Phoenix to SS. Simon and Jude Cathedral for the annual Chrism Mass celebrated by the Bishop of Phoenix, Most Reverend Thomas J. Olmsted. This was the second year in a row I have ever attended the Chrism Mass. As it was last year, it was a solemn and sacred liturgy.
Besides the primary purpose of the Chrism Mass, which is the blessing and distribution of the Sacramental Oils, which I discuss below, there is also another purpose of the Chrism Mass – the Renewal of Commitment to Priestly Service. Bishop Olmsted asks his priests through a variety of statements for their renewal and commitment to the Church. After each statement is read by Bishop Olmsted, the priests in unison, but speaking as individuals respond with, “I am.” Bishop Olmsted then asks for the assembly to stand, and together with one voice, the consecrated religious and the lay faithful pray for their priests and Bishops.
Besides the primary purpose of the Chrism Mass, which is the blessing and distribution of the Sacramental Oils, which I discuss below, there is also another purpose of the Chrism Mass – the Renewal of Commitment to Priestly Service. Bishop Olmsted asks his priests through a variety of statements for their renewal and commitment to the Church. After each statement is read by Bishop Olmsted, the priests in unison, but speaking as individuals respond with, “I am.” Bishop Olmsted then asks for the assembly to stand, and together with one voice, the consecrated religious and the lay faithful pray for their priests and Bishops.
What we know (and don’t) about the missing priest from Yemen
What we know (and don’t) about the missing priest from Yemen - CNA Blog: Social media rumors that Father Tom Uzhunnalil will be crucified by jihadi kidnappers on Good Friday appear to be unfounded, report several news sources in Asia.
Yesterday the Franciscan Sisters of Siessen, based in South Africa, warned on Facebook of the impending torture, and the rumor has since spread across social media platforms. Salesian Church officials, the order to which Fr. Uzhunnalil belongs, have dismissed the claims as rumors and said they have no new information about the priest’s whereabouts or situation.
Yesterday the Franciscan Sisters of Siessen, based in South Africa, warned on Facebook of the impending torture, and the rumor has since spread across social media platforms. Salesian Church officials, the order to which Fr. Uzhunnalil belongs, have dismissed the claims as rumors and said they have no new information about the priest’s whereabouts or situation.
Little Sisters head to Supreme Court to tell Big Brother: ‘We must obey God, not man’
Little Sisters to Big Brother: ‘We Must Obey God, Not Man’ | Daily News | NCRegister.com: Little Sister of the Poor Rose Cantu remembers the first time she saw the women religious who inspired her to embrace the Catholic Church as her spiritual home.
“What drew me to the faith was the joy on the sisters’ faces as they cared for the elderly,” Sister Rose told the Register, as she recalled her pivotal visit to the order’s home as a teenage volunteer.
“Witnessing their faith in action led me to ask more questions about the God they worshipped.”
Almost two decades later, Sister Rose is a registered nurse who serves the elderly poor at St. Anne’s Home, a San Francisco-based residence that offers nursing care and assisted-living options to 86 residents.
“What drew me to the faith was the joy on the sisters’ faces as they cared for the elderly,” Sister Rose told the Register, as she recalled her pivotal visit to the order’s home as a teenage volunteer.
“Witnessing their faith in action led me to ask more questions about the God they worshipped.”
Almost two decades later, Sister Rose is a registered nurse who serves the elderly poor at St. Anne’s Home, a San Francisco-based residence that offers nursing care and assisted-living options to 86 residents.
Why smart people may be happier with fewer friends
Why smart people are better off with fewer friends - The Washington Post: Hell might actually be other people -- at least if you're really smart.
That's the implication of fascinating new research published last month in the British Journal of Psychology. Evolutionary psychologists Satoshi Kanazawa of the London School of Economics and Norman Li of Singapore Management University dig in to the question of what makes a life well-lived. While traditionally the domain of priests, philosophers and novelists, in recent years survey researchers, economists, biologists and scientists have been tackling that question.
That's the implication of fascinating new research published last month in the British Journal of Psychology. Evolutionary psychologists Satoshi Kanazawa of the London School of Economics and Norman Li of Singapore Management University dig in to the question of what makes a life well-lived. While traditionally the domain of priests, philosophers and novelists, in recent years survey researchers, economists, biologists and scientists have been tackling that question.
NYTimes asks: Should disabled kids' parents be allowed to stop their growth to make them easier to manage?
Should Parents of Children With Severe Disabilities Be Allowed to Stop Their Growth? - The New York Times: Ricky gazed up toward the pine trees as his mother, Cindy Preslar, pushed him along the village road in an orange jogging stroller. She was marking the route for the Summer 2014 Run Through the Clouds 10K, a fund-raiser for the public schools in Cloudcroft, N.M. “You’ll run with Dad and Max tomorrow,” she said. “Right, Ricky?” She ruffled his fine blond hair. By “run” she meant “ride” — Ricky was 7, but his legs were unable to bear his full weight. As a result of a complication during pregnancy, Cindy says, he was born with a form of cerebral palsy known as spastic quadriplegia with static encephalopathy, which meant permanent brain damage and severely limited eyesight because of cortical vision impairment.
How the “Lion of Münster”, Blessed Clemens August von Galen, defied the Nazis
It’s Not Cheesy to Like this Blessed from M�nster | catholicsaintsguyONEEL: We’re all familiar with saints who were martyred by the Nazis. Some such as St. Edith Stein were martyred because of Jewish ancestry. Some – St. Maximilian Kolbe, Bl. Marcel Callo – because they were “too” Catholic. And some – Bls. Otto Neurerer, Franz Jägerstatter, Jacob Gapp, SM – because their actions or lives stood somehow in the way of the Nazi state machinery.
But there is at least one man who stood up to the Nazis, openly denounced them, defied them, and yet did not undergo martyrdom.
His name is Bl. Clemens August Cardinal von Galen, “the Lion of Münster.”
Born March 16, 1878, he was a count, the eleventh of 13 children born to Elisabeth von Spee and Ferdinand Heribert Graf (i.e., Count) von Galen. At first he was homeschooled. Due to then-Chancellor Otto von Bismarck’s Kulturkampf, the Jesuits had been outlawed in Westphalia, Prussia (despite its being a majority Catholic state, Westphalia was in Prussia, the heart of the Kulturkampf), and by the time von Galen was a boy, they had still not been legalized. So in 1890, his parents sent his brother and him to school at the Jesuit school in Feldkirch, Austria.
But there is at least one man who stood up to the Nazis, openly denounced them, defied them, and yet did not undergo martyrdom.
His name is Bl. Clemens August Cardinal von Galen, “the Lion of Münster.”
Born March 16, 1878, he was a count, the eleventh of 13 children born to Elisabeth von Spee and Ferdinand Heribert Graf (i.e., Count) von Galen. At first he was homeschooled. Due to then-Chancellor Otto von Bismarck’s Kulturkampf, the Jesuits had been outlawed in Westphalia, Prussia (despite its being a majority Catholic state, Westphalia was in Prussia, the heart of the Kulturkampf), and by the time von Galen was a boy, they had still not been legalized. So in 1890, his parents sent his brother and him to school at the Jesuit school in Feldkirch, Austria.
Why is Brussels under attack?
Why is Brussels under attack? - The Washington Post: Brussels was hit by a number of deadly explosions on Tuesday, with all signs pointing toward a coordinated terror attack, now being claimed by the Islamic State.
It's a shocking turn of events, but for anyone closely observing the city over the past few years, it wasn't exactly a surprise: While the Belgian capital had once been known best as a center for European culture and politics, its reputation had been tainted recently because of links to extremism and terror plots.
It's a shocking turn of events, but for anyone closely observing the city over the past few years, it wasn't exactly a surprise: While the Belgian capital had once been known best as a center for European culture and politics, its reputation had been tainted recently because of links to extremism and terror plots.
Former Vatican Bank president: “The devil now has so many apostles that he can retire...”
Former Vatican Bank President: The Source of All Misery Is ‘Moral Misery’ |Blogs | NCRegister.comPENTIN: A largely undetected, anti-Catholic “gnosis” (knowledge of spiritual mysteries) is pervading many areas of life, destroying Christian values that have been the bedrock of Western civilization for millennia. This is the thesis put forward by Ettore Gotti Tedeschi, former president of the Vatican Bank, financier, economist and visiting professor of economics at three universities.
It also appears in a new book interview with the economist called Un Mestiere del Diavolo (“A Job of the Devil”).
In this email interview with the Register, the Italian professor elaborates on what he means by “gnosis,” discusses what he means when he says "the devil has retired", and expresses his support and reservations about Francis’ latest encyclical, Laudato Si.
It also appears in a new book interview with the economist called Un Mestiere del Diavolo (“A Job of the Devil”).
In this email interview with the Register, the Italian professor elaborates on what he means by “gnosis,” discusses what he means when he says "the devil has retired", and expresses his support and reservations about Francis’ latest encyclical, Laudato Si.
A three-year assessment of the Pope’s appointments
The Pope’s Appointments: A Three-Year Assessment | Daily News | NCRegister.comPENTIN: The interpretive key to most pontificates in terms of their direction and priorities usually rests with papal appointments, and this is no less true with Pope Francis.
Selecting Church leaders is a crucial part of the Petrine office, allowing a pope to shape the Church of the future and line up his successor.
Since his election three years ago, the Holy Father has approved the ordinations of more than 500 priests as bishops and personally elevated 39 churchmen to the College of Cardinals, of whom 31 are eligible to vote in a conclave (the current total of cardinal electors stands just under Blessed Paul VI’s advised limit of 120).
He has also made nearly a dozen appointments to heads of Vatican departments, appointed significantly more to lower ranking positions, and nominated other leaders to head newly created commissions as part of the reform of the Curia.
Selecting Church leaders is a crucial part of the Petrine office, allowing a pope to shape the Church of the future and line up his successor.
Since his election three years ago, the Holy Father has approved the ordinations of more than 500 priests as bishops and personally elevated 39 churchmen to the College of Cardinals, of whom 31 are eligible to vote in a conclave (the current total of cardinal electors stands just under Blessed Paul VI’s advised limit of 120).
He has also made nearly a dozen appointments to heads of Vatican departments, appointed significantly more to lower ranking positions, and nominated other leaders to head newly created commissions as part of the reform of the Curia.
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