Mass-Going Women Are Far Less Likely to Commit Suicide, New Study Finds | ChurchPOPMILLEGAN: Catholic women who attend Mass regularly are far less likely to commit suicide compared to non-religious or even Protestant women, a new study has found.
Women who attend religious services of any kind once a week or more are five times less likely to commit suicide than women who don’t. But women who regularly attended Protestant services were still seven times more likely to commit suicide than women who regularly attended the Catholic Mass.
In fact, of the 6,999 Catholic women who attended Mass more than once a week in the study, there was not a single suicide recorded.
“Seriously, this is interesting,” Catholic sociologist Mark Regnerus wrote on Facebook regarding the study. He added that the study is particularly relevant since it “doesn’t have any sample size problems.”
Thursday, June 30, 2016
Judge blocks Indiana's ban on sex-selective abortion
Judge blocks Indiana's ban on sex-selective abortion | Washington Examiner: A federal judge has blocked Indiana's ban against aborting a fetus based on its sex, race or disability, a law that was set to go into effect Friday.
Indiana is one of two states with bans on obtaining an abortion based on race, gender or ancestry of a fetus. Gov. Mike Pence signed the law in March after it was passed by the Republican-led legislature. A similar law in North Dakota remains in effect.
U.S. District Court Judge Tanya Walton Pratt granted a preliminary injunction blocking the law from going into effect Friday. The injunction was sought by Planned Parenthood of Indiana and Kentucky.
Indiana is one of two states with bans on obtaining an abortion based on race, gender or ancestry of a fetus. Gov. Mike Pence signed the law in March after it was passed by the Republican-led legislature. A similar law in North Dakota remains in effect.
U.S. District Court Judge Tanya Walton Pratt granted a preliminary injunction blocking the law from going into effect Friday. The injunction was sought by Planned Parenthood of Indiana and Kentucky.
How I came to think differently about Mary
How I Came to Think Differently about Mary |Blogs | NCRegister.comSHEA: It once seemed perfectly obvious to me that Catholics honored Mary too much. All those feasts, rosaries, icons, statues and whatnot were ridiculously excessive. Yes, the gospel of Luke said something about her being "blessed" and yes I thought her a good person. But that was that. People who celebrated her or called her "Mother" or did all the million things which Catholic piety encourages bordered on idolatry. It was all too much. Jesus, after all, is our Savior, not Mary.
Injustice to the poor and the coming Judgment
Injustice to the Poor and the Coming Judgment - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: The Catechism speaks to the theme of injustice to the poor by placing the consideration of this sin in the treatise on 7th Commandment, “Thou shall not steal.” To fail to care for the poor when one can reasonably do so amounts to a form of theft. Our excess belongs to the poor because God intends all the goods of the earth for all the people of the earth. The Catechism refers to this principle as “The Universal Destination of Goods” and says...
“You’re acting like a jerk, but...” At the juncture of Justice and Mercy
“You’re acting like a jerk, but…” At the juncture of Justice and Mercy - Spotlight - Aleteia.org – Worldwide Catholic Network Sharing Faith Resources for those seeking Truth – Aleteia.orgSCALIA: Writing this week on Pope Francis’ call for the Church to apologize to the gay community, David Mills agrees that apologies must indeed be made.
In doing so, he notes that there are Catholics (and other Christians) who are reluctant to say “Amen” to the idea, and — to a point — he understands that reluctance, particularly when some people have lost their livelihoods for the deep social crime of making suitable recommendations to customers while requesting that they take their business elsewhere, as a matter of religious conscience. In a world where how one “identifies” matters, people who are feeling bullied or defensive do not often identify as aggressors who need to apologize.
In doing so, he notes that there are Catholics (and other Christians) who are reluctant to say “Amen” to the idea, and — to a point — he understands that reluctance, particularly when some people have lost their livelihoods for the deep social crime of making suitable recommendations to customers while requesting that they take their business elsewhere, as a matter of religious conscience. In a world where how one “identifies” matters, people who are feeling bullied or defensive do not often identify as aggressors who need to apologize.
5 surprising facts from the latest U.S. poll about God and Atheism
5 Surprising Facts from the Latest U.S. Poll About God and Atheism�|�Brandon VogtVOGT: CARA is a national, non-profit research group affiliated with Georgetown University. It conducts social scientific studies about the Catholic Church. Founded in 1964, CARA has three major dimensions to its mission:
to increase the Church’s self understanding,
to serve the applied research needs of Church decision-makers,
to advance scholarly research on religion, particularly Catholicism.
CARA’s latest research concerns religious belief in the United States. It’s a multi-phase project in its earliest stages, but the group regular offer previews of their findings on Twitter. Here’s the latest chart...
to increase the Church’s self understanding,
to serve the applied research needs of Church decision-makers,
to advance scholarly research on religion, particularly Catholicism.
CARA’s latest research concerns religious belief in the United States. It’s a multi-phase project in its earliest stages, but the group regular offer previews of their findings on Twitter. Here’s the latest chart...
Priest hears confession of man brandishing a gun (warning: autoplay video)
Priest Says Man Pointed a Gun at Him 'the Whole Time' He Gave Confession - ABC News: A priest from St. Christopher Parish in Rocky Hill, Ohio, says he was shaken up after he had to give confession to a man who held him at gunpoint for the entirety of the sacrament.
"He just came in, you know, to go to confession, and before he sat down, he pulled out this gun from behind his back," the priest said, according to audio of the 911 call obtained by ABC News. "So I did confession at gunpoint."
"He just came in, you know, to go to confession, and before he sat down, he pulled out this gun from behind his back," the priest said, according to audio of the 911 call obtained by ABC News. "So I did confession at gunpoint."
Santa Susanna, the American parish in Rome, puts out the welcome mat for pilgrims to the Eternal City
The Eternal City - Catholic Sentinel - Portland, OR: Paulist Father Steve Bossi, former pastor of St. Philip Neri in Portland and now assigned to the Paulist church Santa Susanna in Rome, says that in general when people ask him if the ultimate pilgrimage is to the Holy Land or Rome, he advises the Holy Land. “Jesus never set foot in Rome,” he says.
But as partial as Father Bossi is to the Holy Land, this year is different.
Maybe.
“This year it’s wise to give consideration to Rome,” he says.
That’s because it’s the Jubilee Year of Mercy, and the city has put out a welcome mat for pilgrims. Santa Susanna has a process to help Americans get tickets to papal audiences.
But as partial as Father Bossi is to the Holy Land, this year is different.
Maybe.
“This year it’s wise to give consideration to Rome,” he says.
That’s because it’s the Jubilee Year of Mercy, and the city has put out a welcome mat for pilgrims. Santa Susanna has a process to help Americans get tickets to papal audiences.
ISIS claims murder of Coptic priest in Egypt
Islamic State claims killing Coptic priest in Egypt: The Islamic State claimed responsibility for shooting to death a Coptic priest in Egypt Thursday.
Father Raphael Musa, the priest of St. George Church in El-Arish in the northern Sinai was returning from mass Thursday when he was shot in the head multiple times by an unknown assailant, according to local police.
Shortly thereafter, ISIS claimed responsibility for the killing in an online post accusing Musa of “waging war against Islam.”
Father Raphael Musa, the priest of St. George Church in El-Arish in the northern Sinai was returning from mass Thursday when he was shot in the head multiple times by an unknown assailant, according to local police.
Shortly thereafter, ISIS claimed responsibility for the killing in an online post accusing Musa of “waging war against Islam.”
How to understand Pope Francis' “apology” to the gay community
How to understand Pope Francis' 'apology' to the gay community :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): As Pope Francis on Sunday backed the idea of apologizing to gay individuals who may feel marginalized by the Church, discussion has once again broken out over how to interpret the pontiff’s words.
Debate flared up overnight after the Pope responded to a question about recent comments made by Cardinal Reinhard Marx, who said the Church must apologize to homosexual persons for having “marginalized” them.
While Pope Francis did not actually make an apology to the gay community, his endorsement of the idea has exploded, in part because it has been taken by many as an open endorsement for the gay lifestyle, deviating from Church teaching.
Debate flared up overnight after the Pope responded to a question about recent comments made by Cardinal Reinhard Marx, who said the Church must apologize to homosexual persons for having “marginalized” them.
While Pope Francis did not actually make an apology to the gay community, his endorsement of the idea has exploded, in part because it has been taken by many as an open endorsement for the gay lifestyle, deviating from Church teaching.
Food fight in Florence, Italy, over plans for a new McDonald's near the Duomo
Bunfight in Florence over plans for a new McDonald's in the city's exquisite Piazza del Duomo: Milkshakes and McNuggets have no place in the shadow of Florence’s great cathedral, a masterpiece of Renaissance design, the city has decreed amid a row over plans by McDonald’s to open a new fast food outlet.
The American fast food giant wants to site its newest restaurant in Piazza del Duomo, within sight of the vast cupola constructed by Filippo Brunelleschi in the 15th century, but it is encountering fierce resistance among Florentines.
The US firm says it had tacit agreement from the mayor of Florence to go ahead with the burger joint and cannot understand why he has now declared himself to be against the project.
The American fast food giant wants to site its newest restaurant in Piazza del Duomo, within sight of the vast cupola constructed by Filippo Brunelleschi in the 15th century, but it is encountering fierce resistance among Florentines.
The US firm says it had tacit agreement from the mayor of Florence to go ahead with the burger joint and cannot understand why he has now declared himself to be against the project.
Miracle of technology: Story of Jesus to be released in virtual reality
Miracle of technology: story of Jesus to be released in virtual reality | Film | The Guardian: First came the scriptures; then the altarpieces. After that, stained glass windows and engravings of the Stations of the Cross. Last century brought biblical epics like Spartacus. Now believers will be able to experience the life of Jesus as if they were there themselves, thanks to advances in virtual reality technology.
Autumn Productions and VRWERX are set to release Jesus VR – The Story of Christ, a 90-minute virtual reality re-enactment of the New Testament, which includes Jesus’s birth and death by crucifixion, along with key moments like the Sermon on the Mount.
Autumn Productions and VRWERX are set to release Jesus VR – The Story of Christ, a 90-minute virtual reality re-enactment of the New Testament, which includes Jesus’s birth and death by crucifixion, along with key moments like the Sermon on the Mount.
Meet the man behind the voice of AOL's famous “You've Got Mail” greeting
New Advent: Meet the man behind the voice of AOL's famous “You've Got Mail” greeting: If you logged onto the internet circa 1997, chances are you heard this guy, Elwood Edwards, greet you with a warm “Welcome! You’ve got mail.” Edwards scored his place in internet history back in 1989, after submitting a handful of recorded phrases to a company that would soon be known as America Online. Thirty years and hundreds of millions of logins later, the rest is history.
“Mercy without works is dead”, Pope says at special Jubilee general audience
Mercy without works is dead, Pope Francis says :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): In his Jubilee general audience for the month of June, Pope Francis focused his speech on the works of mercy and how to put them into action. He also gave thanks for his recent visit to Armenia, and spoke of his coming trips to Georgia and Azerbaijan.
“Mercy without works is dead,” the Pope said June 30, quoting St. James. What brings mercy to life, he said, is “it’s constant dynamism for going to meet the needy and the necessities of the many spiritually and materially disadvantaged.”
“Mercy without works is dead,” the Pope said June 30, quoting St. James. What brings mercy to life, he said, is “it’s constant dynamism for going to meet the needy and the necessities of the many spiritually and materially disadvantaged.”
Here are the things that Islamists and Secularists agree about...
When Islamists and Secularists Agree - Crisis MagazineHOOPES: Many commentators tried to implicate Christians in the aftermath of the mass shooting in Orlando. But might it not be true that Western secularists have more in common with Isis than Christians?
The two realities of Islamic extremism and Western consumerism are like shadowy doppelgangers showing up each other’s bankruptcy. Consider
The two realities of Islamic extremism and Western consumerism are like shadowy doppelgangers showing up each other’s bankruptcy. Consider
Wednesday, June 29, 2016
Hollywood’s pope: Little faith on the small screen
Hollywood’s Pope: Little Faith on the Small Screen | Parishable ItemsFELTES: This fall, HBO will begin airing an eight-episode miniseries imagining the first American to be elected pope. While this drama may or may not attract viewers, I predict “The Young Pope” will fail to capture the Catholic Faith and Church. I had similar doubts when Showtime floated a similar premise in 2013. (“The Vatican” was to star the actor who played Adolf Hitler in the movie “Downfall,” but none of its episodes ever aired.) The creator and director of “The Young Pope,” Paolo Sorrentino, describes what his new series will be about...
Who will win the presidency? FiveThirtyEight's election forecast is tracking the numbers...
2016 Election Forecast | FiveThirtyEight: FiveThirtyEight will be updating their forecasts every time new data is available, every day through Nov. 8.
Purposeful silence: Of Pink Floyd, an abbot, and a pop psychiatrist
Purposeful Silence: Of Pink Floyd, an Abbot, and a Pop Psychiatrist |Blogs | NCRegister.comBECKER: I was driving around town listening to the radio, and next up was Pink Floyd’s “Another Brick in the Wall (Part 2)”—the group’s big hit decrying rigid conformity in schooling and elsewhere. Like any self-respecting baby boomer, I know the lyrics by heart—“we don’t need no education, we don’t need no thought control”—and they make me grin every time. Now that I’ve become a dutiful dad, requiring his kids to both go to school and learn things, there’s a delicious irony in recalling that rebellious anthem of my youth. I cranked the volume and belted out the chorus.
6 Catholic books for your summer reading
6 Catholic Books for Your Summer Reading |Blogs | NCRegister.comMCAFEE: It would sound cliché to start off by saying this book ‘blew me away’ but that’s exactly what I’m going to day. This book blew me away! Growing up Protestant where every pastor had a different answer for loved ones in the afterlife, I grew up completely confused and not full of much optimism. Since becoming a Catholic and learning so much, I actually never focused on this subject so I was still a bit in the dark when I picked up the book.
NASA test fired its newest rocket booster, and it looks like it works
Watch NASA Perform a Fiery Motor Test of Its Enormous SLS Booster: Today, NASA test-fired its Solid Rocket Booster engine, part of the rocket that NASA hopes will one day take humans to Mars. This marks the last test of the booster before its first scheduled flight in 2018, and probably our only chance to see these massive rockets fire while staying on the ground.
“I have prayed for you, Francis”: On Peter's Day, the Pope on the Keys
Whispers in the Loggia: "I Have Prayed For You, Francis" – On Peter's Day, The Pope on The KeysPALMO: Before anything else, a refresher on this feast's context from the Catechism of the Catholic Church...
When Christ instituted the Twelve, "he constituted [them] in the form of a college or permanent assembly, at the head of which he placed Peter, chosen from among them." Just as "by the Lord's institution, St. Peter and the rest of the apostles constitute a single apostolic college, so in like fashion the Roman Pontiff, Peter's successor, and the bishops, the successors of the apostles, are related with and united to one another."
When Christ instituted the Twelve, "he constituted [them] in the form of a college or permanent assembly, at the head of which he placed Peter, chosen from among them." Just as "by the Lord's institution, St. Peter and the rest of the apostles constitute a single apostolic college, so in like fashion the Roman Pontiff, Peter's successor, and the bishops, the successors of the apostles, are related with and united to one another."
Why are so many people in America so desperate?
Desperate America - Crisis MagazineLUSCH: “The mass of men lead lives of quiet desperation.” True in Thoreau’s age, perhaps, not so much in ours. It seems the decibels of desperation have increased since Henry David’s days near Walden Pond. And not decibels only, but desperation. Nowadays we take our desperation at alarmingly acceptable rates. How often we merely “consume” media coverage of a mass killing, a sadistic murder, or the latest teenage suicide. And that is if we bother to get beyond the headlines. Often, I’ve heard it called The New Normal. I have no idea what this means. I take it to mean, of course, that we are both desensitized and accustomed to the screaming desperation in our country. It is at once an acknowledgement of, and a gloss upon, the point.
Liturgical living in the universal Church
Liturgical living in the universal Church ~ The MotherlandsRENNER: My husband wanted to convert to the faith long before I did. One day he said some unflattering things about Martin Luther, questioned my assumptions about the Reformation, and handed me a copy of G.K. Chesterton’s “The Catholic Church and Conversion.” If it hadn’t been a library book, I probably would have burned it and scattered the ashes in the sea, never to be seen again.
I couldn’t imagine not being Lutheran. No more Bach? What about the hymns I'd sung since childhood? I had a sneaking suspicion that Martin Luther’s “A Mighty Fortress is Our God,” wouldn’t be on the rotation at a Catholic church. To say nothing of Reformation Sunday celebrations and singing “Stille Nacht” on Christmas Eve. Leave the Lutheran faith for what? Praying to saints, worshiping Mary, and papacy nonsense?
I couldn’t imagine not being Lutheran. No more Bach? What about the hymns I'd sung since childhood? I had a sneaking suspicion that Martin Luther’s “A Mighty Fortress is Our God,” wouldn’t be on the rotation at a Catholic church. To say nothing of Reformation Sunday celebrations and singing “Stille Nacht” on Christmas Eve. Leave the Lutheran faith for what? Praying to saints, worshiping Mary, and papacy nonsense?
“The Innocents” is a gripping saga of triumph over tragedy
“THE INNOCENTS” Is a Gripping Saga of Triumph Over Tragedy – Seasons of GraceSCHIFFER: In December 1945, as American troops were returning home victorious after the close of World War II, Poland was facing a new brutality. Russian soldiers, buoyed by their victory over the German Nazi forces, had taken over the country; and unbeknownst to the Western world, the Russians were engaging in crimes of opportunity. The occupying Soviet troops were raping Polish women on the streets and in their homes, in hospitals and maternity wards, and even in convents.
4 signs that motherhood is making a comeback
4 signs motherhood is making a comeback - Top Stories - Aleteia.org – Worldwide Catholic Network Sharing Faith Resources for those seeking Truth – Aleteia.orgGRESS: During the renovation of my centuries-old parish in Virginia, an astounding discovery was made in a dusty old storage room. Buried under piles of boxes was a 16th–century Spanish icon of Our Lady. The icon, of museum quality, was likely brought over by settlers in the 1700s. When a new church was built in the chaos of the late 60s, someone decided this old icon wasn’t of much use anymore.
Russian absence from Pan-Orthodox Council saves Ecumenical Patriarchate's status (for now)
Pan-Orthodox Council: Russian Absence Saves Ecumenical Patriarchate’s Status — for Now | Daily News | NCRegister.comGAETAN: It has been a tough week for globalists, even on the island of Crete.
The weeklong “Holy and Great Council of Orthodox Churches” concluded on June 27, with the release of a message and broad encyclical that, mainly, asserts its vitality, relevance and primacy as the “one, holy, catholic and apostolic Church” — the English translation even refers, twice, to the Orthodox Catholic Church.
Holy See diplomats can be relieved that the document represents no setback for ecumenical relations, a Vatican priority for more than 50 years.
The weeklong “Holy and Great Council of Orthodox Churches” concluded on June 27, with the release of a message and broad encyclical that, mainly, asserts its vitality, relevance and primacy as the “one, holy, catholic and apostolic Church” — the English translation even refers, twice, to the Orthodox Catholic Church.
Holy See diplomats can be relieved that the document represents no setback for ecumenical relations, a Vatican priority for more than 50 years.
SSPX retreats from regularization with Rome
SSPX Retreats from Regularization With Rome |Blogs | NCRegister.comPENTIN: The Society of St. Pius X appears to have taken a step back from regularization with Rome after a meeting of major superiors of the Society this week.
In a statement published today, the SSPX cited the "great and painful confusion that currently reigns in the Church" as a reason, as well as the need for a supportive Pope who "concretely favors the return to Sacred Tradition."�
It said that the proclamation of Catholic doctrine "requires the denunciation of errors" that have made their way into the Church, ones which are "unfortunately encouraged by a large number of pastors, including the Pope himself."
In a statement published today, the SSPX cited the "great and painful confusion that currently reigns in the Church" as a reason, as well as the need for a supportive Pope who "concretely favors the return to Sacred Tradition."�
It said that the proclamation of Catholic doctrine "requires the denunciation of errors" that have made their way into the Church, ones which are "unfortunately encouraged by a large number of pastors, including the Pope himself."
The real Josef Ratzinger is a gentle and brilliant friend you need to have in your life
Have You Met the Real Ratzinger? |Blogs | NCRegister.comFISHER: Today is the 65th anniversary of the ordination of Josef Ratzinger -- a happy day for the entire world, as we thank God we were given such a great and good man to serve us as priest and papa.
You'll recall that, according to the mass media, Benedict XVI was a cold and creaky Emperor Palpatine who grinned with black gums as he brought his cruel fist crashing down on life, liberty, and the pursuit of sexy fun. They really believed it, too, because they are morons.
But you're not a moron! Do yourself a favor and read something the man actually wrote, like the three volumes of Jesus of Nazareth. These make excellent reading in adoration, and will bring you closer to Christ. What more could you want? And it will be easy.
You'll recall that, according to the mass media, Benedict XVI was a cold and creaky Emperor Palpatine who grinned with black gums as he brought his cruel fist crashing down on life, liberty, and the pursuit of sexy fun. They really believed it, too, because they are morons.
But you're not a moron! Do yourself a favor and read something the man actually wrote, like the three volumes of Jesus of Nazareth. These make excellent reading in adoration, and will bring you closer to Christ. What more could you want? And it will be easy.
Sts. Peter and Paul show that both brains and brawn are needed for the Catholic faith to thrive
NCRegister | Sts. Peter and Paul: The Keys and the SwordLONGENECKER: One of my favorite moments in any visit to Rome is to slow down and wander through St. Peter’s Square, rather than rushing through to get into the basilica itself. The square is surrounded by Bernini’s curved colonnade, which reaches around to embrace the gathering crowds.
In the center stands the ancient Egyptian obelisk that once dominated the nearby Vatican Circus, where St. Peter was martyred. It is crowned now with a massive cross, symbolizing the triumph of Christ over the paganism of ancient Egypt and Rome. Standing guard on either side of the square are gigantic statues of Sts. Peter and Paul.
In the center stands the ancient Egyptian obelisk that once dominated the nearby Vatican Circus, where St. Peter was martyred. It is crowned now with a massive cross, symbolizing the triumph of Christ over the paganism of ancient Egypt and Rome. Standing guard on either side of the square are gigantic statues of Sts. Peter and Paul.
Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI celebrates 65 years of priesthood today
Pope Emeritus Benedict: 65 Years a Priest | Daily News | NCRegister.comDESOUZA: On June 29, the feast of Sts. Peter and Paul, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI celebrates the 65th anniversary of his priestly ordination. It will be a day of pairs: the twin princes of the apostles — Peter and Paul; the two priests marking 65 years, as Benedict XVI will be joined by his older brother, Msgr. Georg Ratzinger, also ordained on the same day; and the celebration in the Vatican on the vigil of the feast, June 28, included two “popes,” as it were, the Pope and the pope emeritus, as Pope Francis paid tribute to his predecessor.
Prayer is the ‘way out’ of a closed heart and mind, Pope Francis says
Prayer is the 'way out' of a closed heart and mind, Pope Francis says :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): On Wednesday Pope Francis gave 25 new archbishops the pallium, encouraging them to remain strong in prayer, which he said helps in staying open to God’s surprises, rather than closing in on oneself.
“Prayer enables grace to open a way out from closure to openness, from fear to courage, from sadness to joy. And we can add: from division to unity,” Pope Francis said June 29, the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul.
He pointed to the “clear contrast” between opening and closing in the day’s readings, beginning with three examples of “closing” found in the first reading from Acts.
“Prayer enables grace to open a way out from closure to openness, from fear to courage, from sadness to joy. And we can add: from division to unity,” Pope Francis said June 29, the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul.
He pointed to the “clear contrast” between opening and closing in the day’s readings, beginning with three examples of “closing” found in the first reading from Acts.
The United States of Breakfast: 50 of America's best diners
America's Best Diners | Extra Crispy: The diner is an American breakfast institution. From Connecticut to Hawaii, New York to New Mexico, Tennessee to Oregon, and everywhere in-between, diners are there to provide succor to the weary and hungry at all hours of the day. But it is breakfast where they really shine: toast piled high and proffered with packets of butter and jelly, eggs served however you please, hashes and home fries, stacks both short and not-so-short, melts and wraps of all kinds (if that’s your thing), all anchored by a hot cup of coffee.
Streamliner trains that oozed the elegance of old world travel
Streamliner Trains that Oozed the Elegance of Old World Travel: Say, can I get that train pamphlet in a framed poster? That’s not something you’re likely to wonder about any of the marketing coming out of today’s rail travel industry. I found this gorgeous vintage pamphlet design by Union Pacific Railroad and it sent me on a cyber hunt for more memorabilia from a glittering era in train travel between the 1930s to the 50s. Forget the Orient Express, I’m all aboard the American Streamliner today...
Tuesday, June 28, 2016
When they found the bones of St. Peter
When They Found the Bones of St. PeterTURLEY: Having dug for years, on that night they knew they had found what they had been searching for, and so, hastily, one of their number was dispatched. Soon, there came through the darkness deep within the earth, a man clothed all in white. Thereafter, a light was held as Pope Pius XII gazed upon the find. It was a moment that linked twenty centuries. In 1968, Pope Paul VI made an announcement that the bones of St. Peter, the first pope, had been discovered below the Vatican. Those few who had been involved in this discovery knew that the announcement was stating something that by then had already been known to a few for over two decades. Why the Pope was announcing the find at that time and why it had not been spoken of before, as well as the controversies that had dogged its every step, were not then made public.
A cinematic lesson in hope
A Cinematic Lesson in Hope | George Weigel | First ThingsWEIGEL: At a moment like this when there doesn’t seem to be a lot going right—ascendant authoritarianisms throughout the world; lethal violence by ideological fanatics; feckless responses to both from the democracies—it’s good to be reminded that things can be different, and in fact were different, not so very long ago.
Recapturing those days and summoning memories of a time when the good folks won, cleanly and against all the odds, is the singular accomplishment of a splendid new documentary, Liberating a Continent: John Paul II and the Fall of Communism, which should be on everyone’s summer must-watch list.
Recapturing those days and summoning memories of a time when the good folks won, cleanly and against all the odds, is the singular accomplishment of a splendid new documentary, Liberating a Continent: John Paul II and the Fall of Communism, which should be on everyone’s summer must-watch list.
A warning from Amos: What do we face?
A Warning from Amos - What Do We Face? - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: Though he lived in the Southern Kingdom of Judah, the prophet Amos was sent north by God to preach to the Northern Kingdom of Israel. Perhaps no other prophet was as searing in his condemnation and as demanding in his call as was Amos. His prophecies of doom largely came true in the form of a huge earthquake that struck the region in 760 B.C. (two years after his death) and forty years later in the utter conquest and destruction of Israel in 721 B.C. The message is clear: unrepented sin brings dire consequences. When a nation refuses to repent it seals its own doom.
Pope Francis on apologizing to gays (and more)...
Pope Francis on Apologizing to Gays (And More): 6 things to know and share |Blogs | NCRegister.comAKIN: During his recent plane flight back from Armenia, Pope Francis gave a press conference in which he discussed a number of issues, including the question of whether Catholics should apologize to homosexuals.
Here are 6 things to know and share...
Here are 6 things to know and share...
Don't tell me that a cross is not a cross
Don’t Tell Me That a Cross Is Not a Cross |Blogs | NCRegister.comARMSTRONG: While our family waits for a diagnosis, a few friends have tried to convince me that our 20-year-old daughter does not have thyroid cancer. I don’t understand that kind of thinking. �Until her July 12 surgery and subsequent biopsy provide a definitive answer, we are prepared for anything. �Everyone processes hard news differently but there’s no point in predicting a future that we cannot control.
The prayers for her are a true gift.� Stories shared about the positive outcomes of others are also appreciated.� It’s the aggressive insistence of a few that I should believe that it’s not cancer that I don’t like.� It is well intentioned, I know. �There are better ways to reduce worry, however, rather than trying to convince myself of the desired outcome.
The prayers for her are a true gift.� Stories shared about the positive outcomes of others are also appreciated.� It’s the aggressive insistence of a few that I should believe that it’s not cancer that I don’t like.� It is well intentioned, I know. �There are better ways to reduce worry, however, rather than trying to convince myself of the desired outcome.
How strange is the Cross
How Strange is the Cross | Word On FireBARRON: Fleming Rutledge’s The Crucifixion is one of the most stimulating and thought-provoking books of theology that I have read in the past ten years. Both an academic and a well-regarded preacher in the Episcopal tradition, Rutledge has an extraordinary knack of cutting to the heart of the matter. Her book on the central reality of the Christian faith is supremely illuminating, a delight for the inquiring mind—and man, will it ever preach. There is so much of value in this text that I have decided to dedicate a number of articles to analyzing it. For the purposes of this initial interpretive foray, allow me to focus simply on two themes that run through the entire book and that ought to shape any Christian’s understanding of the cross: the sheer strangeness of the crucifixion and the weight of sin.
St. Pachomius, the little-known founder of Christian cenobitism
St. Pachomius, the Little-Known Founder of Cenobitism |Blogs | NCRegister.comDICAMILLO: Here’s a simple question with no easy answer: Who founded monasticism?
Writing in these pages last year, John Goerke made a convincing case for St. Anthony the Abbot. However, St. Anthony founded only a certain kind of monasticism: the life of hermits (anchorites) known as “eremitism”. Though many of the lay faithful flocked to this great saint, these Egyptian monks lived separately, in tiny cells called lauras, with St. Anthony always trying to get further and further away from the world (and these followers). Indeed, St. Anthony left no rule, no monastery—nothing but an extreme example of a holy life beyond reproach which became legendary (literally) thanks to his biographer, St. Athanasius. But he did not leave a legacy of monasticism as we now know it—that is with an Abbot or Prior and a building one vowed to live in for the rest of one’s life.
Writing in these pages last year, John Goerke made a convincing case for St. Anthony the Abbot. However, St. Anthony founded only a certain kind of monasticism: the life of hermits (anchorites) known as “eremitism”. Though many of the lay faithful flocked to this great saint, these Egyptian monks lived separately, in tiny cells called lauras, with St. Anthony always trying to get further and further away from the world (and these followers). Indeed, St. Anthony left no rule, no monastery—nothing but an extreme example of a holy life beyond reproach which became legendary (literally) thanks to his biographer, St. Athanasius. But he did not leave a legacy of monasticism as we now know it—that is with an Abbot or Prior and a building one vowed to live in for the rest of one’s life.
Francis and Benedict: The most exclusive brotherhood on the planet
Francis and Benedict: The most exclusive brotherhood on the planet - Opinion - Aleteia.org – Worldwide Catholic Network Sharing Faith Resources for those seeking Truth – Aleteia.orgSCALIA: With the Vatican’s official celebration, today, of the 65th Anniversary of Joseph Ratzinger’s ordination to the priesthood (which occurs tomorrow, June 29, on the Feast of St. Peter and St. Paul) we have heard some very beautiful words, and seen for ourselves a bit of the warm regard Pope Francis and the Pope Emeritus have for each other.
They are worth pondering, the words, the visuals, if only because no pope has ever had the benefit of his predecessor’s presence to him. The American presidency may be an exclusive club but the papacy is even more so — much more so, with only 266 of them over the course of 2,000 years — and up to now it has been the loneliest of lonely thrones, with no one living able to understand what it requires; what it gives, and what it takes, and how the Holy Spirit winds around it.
They are worth pondering, the words, the visuals, if only because no pope has ever had the benefit of his predecessor’s presence to him. The American presidency may be an exclusive club but the papacy is even more so — much more so, with only 266 of them over the course of 2,000 years — and up to now it has been the loneliest of lonely thrones, with no one living able to understand what it requires; what it gives, and what it takes, and how the Holy Spirit winds around it.
The uncertain future of saving priceless art with science (and a lot of trial and error)
The Uncertain Future of Saving the Past: Sarah Nunberg has a problem.�
In the Chapel of the Good Shepherd at Saint Peter's Church, large, abstract wooden sculptures seem to move along much of the 28-foot walls. The figures are strange yet somehow calming, giving the impression of quiet and space juxtaposed against the commotion of midtown Manhattan just outside. Nearby, three five-foot-long rectangular columns, representing the Holy Trinity, hang suspended from the ceiling next to the altar, covered in a gleaming gold leaf.
In the Chapel of the Good Shepherd at Saint Peter's Church, large, abstract wooden sculptures seem to move along much of the 28-foot walls. The figures are strange yet somehow calming, giving the impression of quiet and space juxtaposed against the commotion of midtown Manhattan just outside. Nearby, three five-foot-long rectangular columns, representing the Holy Trinity, hang suspended from the ceiling next to the altar, covered in a gleaming gold leaf.
On the eve of his 65th anniversary as a priest, Benedict XVI seeks “transubstantiation of the world”
Whispers in the Loggia: On His Priestly 65th, B16 Seeks "The Transubstantiation of the World"PALMO: Forty months into an unprecedented experience in the modern life of the church, this morning saw another of those moments that still feels a bit surreal: two men in white in the Sala Clementina of the Apostolic Palace, as the Pope led a Vatican celebration (fullvid) marking his predecessor's 65th anniversary of priesthood.
Having referred to his ordination day in his 1997 memoir as "the high point of my life," the figure who'd become Benedict XVI was praised by the reigning pontiff for a "whole life spent in priestly service and true theology that" Joseph Ratzinger had "not accidentally described as 'the search for the Beloved.'"
Amid the first papal retirement since the 13th century – and a far more peaceful one than prior attempts at it – Francis underscored to his predecessor that "you, Holiness, continue to serve the church, [you] do not cease to truly contribute with vigor and wisdom to her growth."
Having referred to his ordination day in his 1997 memoir as "the high point of my life," the figure who'd become Benedict XVI was praised by the reigning pontiff for a "whole life spent in priestly service and true theology that" Joseph Ratzinger had "not accidentally described as 'the search for the Beloved.'"
Amid the first papal retirement since the 13th century – and a far more peaceful one than prior attempts at it – Francis underscored to his predecessor that "you, Holiness, continue to serve the church, [you] do not cease to truly contribute with vigor and wisdom to her growth."
How St. Irenaeus fought the Gnostics
St. Irenaeus and the GnosticsKRANICK: How common is it to hear someone say, “I’m spiritual, not religious.” A very Gnostic-esque statement. One need only to glance at your local bookstore’s religion shelves to see that Gnosticism, that ancient heresy and foe of Christianity, is alive and well in the modern world. There you would find a smorgasbord of spirituality, with topics on “New Age,” transcendentalism, astrology, reincarnation, and ways of attaining a “secret knowledge.” Cults and belief systems for attaining secret knowledge, or gnosis, were all the rage back in the second century as well. Gnostic sects were in direct competition with the nascent Christian Church. It was amidst the threat of Gnosticism that perhaps the greatest Church Father of the second century emerged, Saint Irenaeus.
Pope Francis honors Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI for his 65 years of priesthood
Benedict XVI Celebrates 65 Years of Priesthood, Expressing Thanks | Daily News | NCRegister.com: On Tuesday, Benedict XVI gave his first public speech since his final day as pope, expressing gratitude for a lengthy priesthood and for Pope Francis’ “goodness,” which he said moves him deeply.
Speaking to Pope Francis and the College of Cardinals gathered inside the Vatican’s small Clementine Hall for the 65th anniversary of his priestly ordination, Benedict said the Greek word Efkaristomen (“Let us give thanks”) expresses “all that there is to say” for the occasion. “Thank you, thank you, everyone! Thank you Holy Father — your goodness, from the first day of your election, every day of my life here, moves me interiorly, brings me inwardly more than the Vatican Gardens.”
Speaking to Pope Francis and the College of Cardinals gathered inside the Vatican’s small Clementine Hall for the 65th anniversary of his priestly ordination, Benedict said the Greek word Efkaristomen (“Let us give thanks”) expresses “all that there is to say” for the occasion. “Thank you, thank you, everyone! Thank you Holy Father — your goodness, from the first day of your election, every day of my life here, moves me interiorly, brings me inwardly more than the Vatican Gardens.”
A closer look at Monday's disastrous Supreme Court decision on abortion
Supreme Court Overturns Texas Abortion Restrictions in Landmark Decision | Daily News | NCRegister.comDESMOND: The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday overturned two parts of a 2013 Texas law that strengthened safety standards at abortion facilities, in a 5-3 ruling in Whole Woman’s Health v. Hellerstedt that underscored the majority’s firm adherence to Roe v. Wade.
State abortion businesses had challenged the Texas law, arguing that its real purpose was to impose unnecessary and burdensome standards that would force many of them to close. The law required abortion centers to abide by the same standards that apply to ambulatory surgical facilities and said abortionists must have privileges at hospitals within 30 miles of the businesses where they worked.
State abortion businesses had challenged the Texas law, arguing that its real purpose was to impose unnecessary and burdensome standards that would force many of them to close. The law required abortion centers to abide by the same standards that apply to ambulatory surgical facilities and said abortionists must have privileges at hospitals within 30 miles of the businesses where they worked.
Michigan’s “wrongful conception” case: I love you, but I wish you'd never been born?
Michigan’s “Wrongful Conception” Case: I Love You, But I Wish You’d Never Been Born?? – Seasons of GraceSCHIFFER: The Cichewicz case is another sad result of the contraceptive mentality that considers children as commodities, to be ordered up at will or, in some cases, to be avoided altogether–never taken off the shelf.
The case still pending, so it’s unclear whether Cichewicz’s complaint against her doctor will be successful. What will happen, though, is that at some point–maybe soon, maybe not for many years–Cichewicz’ daughter Reagan will learn how her mother had not wanted her, had even sued the doctor for his alleged “misguidance.” Reagan will learn that she was a “mistake.”
That has to hurt a child, realizing that her mother had not wanted her, had tried so hard to be sure she wouldn’t be born. When that day comes–when little Reagan learns that she had been unwanted–I hope there’s someone around to tell her this: God never makes mistakes.
The case still pending, so it’s unclear whether Cichewicz’s complaint against her doctor will be successful. What will happen, though, is that at some point–maybe soon, maybe not for many years–Cichewicz’ daughter Reagan will learn how her mother had not wanted her, had even sued the doctor for his alleged “misguidance.” Reagan will learn that she was a “mistake.”
That has to hurt a child, realizing that her mother had not wanted her, had tried so hard to be sure she wouldn’t be born. When that day comes–when little Reagan learns that she had been unwanted–I hope there’s someone around to tell her this: God never makes mistakes.
5 reasons you should love (not hate) St. Paul
5 reasons you should love (not hate) St. Paul - Top Stories - Aleteia.org – Worldwide Catholic Network Sharing Faith Resources for those seeking Truth – Aleteia.orgNOBLE: Chances are, you either hate St. Paul or you love him. (If you are indifferent to him, you haven’t been paying attention and need to pick up your Bible.) Paul is the kind of person who demands a strong response, whether it is love or hate, and that is one reason why he is one of my favorite saints. If a Christian elicits nothing more than a shrug of the shoulder from another person, then chances are that Christian is not on fire with the heat of the Gospel.
U.S. Supreme Court allows state to force pro-life pharmacists to sell abortion pills
Supreme Court Allows State to Force Pro-Life Pharmacists to Sell Abortion Pills | LifeNews.com: Just one day after issuing a major ruling striking down a portion of a pro-life law in Texas saving thousands of babies from abortion and closing unscrupulous abortion clinics, the Supreme Court has made a second ant-life decision.
Today, the nation’s highest court refused to hear an appeal from pro-life pharmacists in Washington state who are challenging a state law forcing them to sell the morning after pull and abortion-causing drugs that violate their conscience as Christians instead of allowing them to refer customers to nearby pharmacies.
Today, the nation’s highest court refused to hear an appeal from pro-life pharmacists in Washington state who are challenging a state law forcing them to sell the morning after pull and abortion-causing drugs that violate their conscience as Christians instead of allowing them to refer customers to nearby pharmacies.
Monday, June 27, 2016
Connections between two kings and “The Lord of the Rings”
Two Kings and "The Lord of the Rings" - The Imaginative ConservativeLONGENECKER: For those who are unaware, the Battle of Vienna is on par with the Battle of Lepanto in Christian Europe’s centuries-long struggle to stem the advance of militant Islam. The battle took place on September 11-12, 1683. (Note the 9-11 date.) From July, the forces of the Ottoman Empire, led by Kara Mustafa, had besieged the city of Vienna. By September, the defenders were famished and exhausted. German and Bavarian armies had marched to their aid, but the huge and well-organized Ottoman forces continued their siege, digging trenches to hide from the defenders on the city walls, and digging tunnels to blow up the fortifications from below. King Jan Sobieski, in the meantime, was riding south from Poland with his well-drilled cavalry, the Flying Hussars.
Pope Francis reveals the prayer he prayers every night before bed
Pope Francis Reveals the Prayer He Prays Every Night Before Bed | ChurchPOP: “At night, before going to sleep,” he told the crowd in Rome, “I pray this short prayer.”
First, Pope Francis says this: “Lord, if you want, you can purify me.” Then he prays five Our Fathers, one for each of Christ’s wounds on the Cross (both feet, both hands, and his side). He does this, he explained, “because Jesus has cleansed us with his sores.”
Simple, yet profound! And anyone can do it, as Francis pointed out: “This is what I do; you can do this as well in your home.”
Think you might start praying this every night with the Pope?
First, Pope Francis says this: “Lord, if you want, you can purify me.” Then he prays five Our Fathers, one for each of Christ’s wounds on the Cross (both feet, both hands, and his side). He does this, he explained, “because Jesus has cleansed us with his sores.”
Simple, yet profound! And anyone can do it, as Francis pointed out: “This is what I do; you can do this as well in your home.”
Think you might start praying this every night with the Pope?
AP reporter confuses Cardinal Reinhard Marx with Karl Marx. At least she didn't call him “Groucho”...
From our 'No comment' department: This is sort of a journalism Marx Brothers joke — GetReligionMATTINGLY: You cannot make this one up.
I think we have to rank this one right up there in the top ranks of items that we have ever featured under the heading "From our 'No Comment' department."
Let's see if you can spot the error in the top of this Associated Press report, as it ran earlier today. It has since been corrected.
Note that the dateline is from an always-exciting location during the Pope Francis era, when it comes to breaking stories on the Godbeat. Yes, I know there was a post earlier on a story linked to this. Thus, please consider this a quick mini-update on that post by our own James Davis.
I think we have to rank this one right up there in the top ranks of items that we have ever featured under the heading "From our 'No Comment' department."
Let's see if you can spot the error in the top of this Associated Press report, as it ran earlier today. It has since been corrected.
Note that the dateline is from an always-exciting location during the Pope Francis era, when it comes to breaking stories on the Godbeat. Yes, I know there was a post earlier on a story linked to this. Thus, please consider this a quick mini-update on that post by our own James Davis.
These photos of a dying nun went viral—and here's why...
These photos of a dying nun went viral – and here's why :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): Pictures of a young Argentinian nun – smiling and serene though dying from a devastating battle with cancer – have erupted on social media, with thousands sharing the images and heartfelt prayers.
Sister Cecilia Maria lived in Saints Teresa and Joseph Monastery in Santa Fe, Argentina, dedicated to prayer and the contemplative life.
Sister Cecilia Maria lived in Saints Teresa and Joseph Monastery in Santa Fe, Argentina, dedicated to prayer and the contemplative life.
The darkness is deepening in a land overshadowed by abortion
The Darkness is Deepening in a Land Overshadowed by Abortion |Blogs | NCRegister.comPOPE: I cannot say that I am not very alarmed and concerned at the rapid and deepening darkness about us. I will continue to preach and work for the repentance and salvation of us all and of this once great land. But I must say my prayer is increasingly filled with dismay. The Lord promised that the Church would be indefectible, but that promise does not extend to cultures and civilizations. Greater civilizations than our have disappeared from the face of the Earth.
What Pope Francis just said about Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI
What Pope Francis Just Said About Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI |Blogs | NCRegister.comBUNSON: As is usually the case, Pope Francis’ in-flight press conference created a stir and brought out the typical media obsession with hot-button issues. Somewhat overlooked were his comments about Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI. Francis was asked by Elisabetta Piqué of the Argentinian paper La Nación about the retired pope, specifically to respond to the statements from the prefect of the papal household, Archbishop Georg Gänswein, that there is a kind of “shared Petrine ministry,” with an active pope and a contemplative one.
We must repent of our sins, but we can't apologize for God's truth
We Must Repent of Our Sins, But We Can't Apologize for God's Truth |Blogs | NCRegister.comSTANTON: Pope Francis has given another in-flight interview this weekend that’s getting a good bit of attention throughout the press. He called on the Church to, as he stated, “ask forgiveness to the gay person who is offended”, as one English translation has it. He did so amongst a litany of other things the Church must apologize for: to the poor, to exploited women and children and having “blessed so many weapons.”
9 things you need to know about the prophecy of St. Malachy
9 things you need to know about the prophecy of St. Malachy |Blogs | NCRegister.comAKIN: A significant mark against its authenticity is the fact that it was not published until 1595, though St. Malachy died in 1148. There is no record of the prophecy existing in the intervening 447 years.
Allegedly, this was because the prophecy lay, forgotten, in a Roman archive, and it was not rediscovered until 1590.
This explanation is possible in principle, but the fact that we cannot establish its existence for hundreds of years until after its supposed author's death is also consistent with the claim that it was a forgery composed around 1590 and then "salted" into the archive. ("Salting" is the term used for planting false records in archives.) It also may never have been in the archive but merely claimed to be.
While the fact that we have no mention of this document in the hundreds of years between the times of its reported composition and re-discovery does not prove that it is false, it does cast significant doubt on its authenticity.
Allegedly, this was because the prophecy lay, forgotten, in a Roman archive, and it was not rediscovered until 1590.
This explanation is possible in principle, but the fact that we cannot establish its existence for hundreds of years until after its supposed author's death is also consistent with the claim that it was a forgery composed around 1590 and then "salted" into the archive. ("Salting" is the term used for planting false records in archives.) It also may never have been in the archive but merely claimed to be.
While the fact that we have no mention of this document in the hundreds of years between the times of its reported composition and re-discovery does not prove that it is false, it does cast significant doubt on its authenticity.
How to write good, like a good writer should
How to write good, like a good writer should – Aleteia.org – Worldwide Catholic Network Sharing Faith Resources for those seeking Truth – Aleteia.orgFISHER: Every few months, someone asks me how to write better. Here’s my advice, which I sometimes even follow myself:
Write almost every day. The more you write, the easier it is to write. You will have feasts and famines — times when you can barely type fast enough to keep ahead of the flood of ideas, and times when you have to strain every muscle to get all the way from the subject to the object; but if writing is part of your routine for long enough, you will always be able to write, even when you’re not inspired to write.
Be a good reader. Read authors you admire every day, and think about why you admire their writing. Also figure out why you don’t like the writers you don’t like. Don’t just run your eyes over the page and then turn away with a happy sigh or an irritated huff. Instead, be like an obnoxious wine connoisseur: hold the words and ideas and phrasing in your mouth, swish them around, breathe across them, consider the origins, attend to the aftertaste. Good writers are active readers.
Write almost every day. The more you write, the easier it is to write. You will have feasts and famines — times when you can barely type fast enough to keep ahead of the flood of ideas, and times when you have to strain every muscle to get all the way from the subject to the object; but if writing is part of your routine for long enough, you will always be able to write, even when you’re not inspired to write.
Be a good reader. Read authors you admire every day, and think about why you admire their writing. Also figure out why you don’t like the writers you don’t like. Don’t just run your eyes over the page and then turn away with a happy sigh or an irritated huff. Instead, be like an obnoxious wine connoisseur: hold the words and ideas and phrasing in your mouth, swish them around, breathe across them, consider the origins, attend to the aftertaste. Good writers are active readers.
Abortion (still) isn’t healthcare
Abortion {still} isn’t healthcare – Mama Needs CoffeeUEBBING: It’s not. And in an ironic convergence of worldviews, I can see why SCOTUS would overturn a Texas law requiring certain minimum medical standards be met by abortion clinics.
Because abortion isn’t healthcare.
Which is why, I suppose, the Supreme Court refuses to hold abortion clinics to the same standards as other ambulatory surgery centers or, as it turns out, Botox clinics.
Makes sense, if what goes on behind closed (filthy, substandard, unhygienic) clinic doors isn’t under the purvey of actual healthcare, anyway.
Because abortion isn’t healthcare.
And since abortion isn’t healthcare, and women’s lives are less valuable than, say, the political capital to be gained in such a move by SCOTUS, overriding common sense and biological reality in the name of so-called reproductive freedom, then the ruling makes perfect sense.
Because abortion isn’t healthcare.
Which is why, I suppose, the Supreme Court refuses to hold abortion clinics to the same standards as other ambulatory surgery centers or, as it turns out, Botox clinics.
Makes sense, if what goes on behind closed (filthy, substandard, unhygienic) clinic doors isn’t under the purvey of actual healthcare, anyway.
Because abortion isn’t healthcare.
And since abortion isn’t healthcare, and women’s lives are less valuable than, say, the political capital to be gained in such a move by SCOTUS, overriding common sense and biological reality in the name of so-called reproductive freedom, then the ruling makes perfect sense.
The key to understanding the Supreme Court decision on Texas abortion restrictions
The key to understanding the Supreme Court decision on Texas abortion restrictions — GetReligion: Big news today out of the U.S. Supreme Court: As the Washington Post reports, the court – in a 5-3 decision – struck down Texas abortion restrictions that had caused more than half the state's abortion clinics to close.
As always, abortion is one of those topics that mix politics and religion, no matter how hard people try to keep the topics separate.
As always, abortion is one of those topics that mix politics and religion, no matter how hard people try to keep the topics separate.
Video: Pope Francis' answers to 3 questions on the papal plane from Armenia
VIDEO: Pope Francis' Answers to 3 Questions on Papal Plane from Armenia |Blogs | NCRegister.comPENTIN: Pope Francis answered seven questions in total on the papal plane from Armenia last night, including one from the Register on the Brexit vote. The full text of the press conference can be read here.
I wasn't able to film all of it, but I did catch his responses to three questions: on whether there are two popes, if the Church should apologise to homosexuals, and how he would be approaching his visit to the Nazi extermination camps of Auschwitz and Birkenau when he travels to Poland for World Youth Day next month.
I wasn't able to film all of it, but I did catch his responses to three questions: on whether there are two popes, if the Church should apologise to homosexuals, and how he would be approaching his visit to the Nazi extermination camps of Auschwitz and Birkenau when he travels to Poland for World Youth Day next month.
U.S. Supreme Court strikes down pro-life Texas abortion clinic regulations
Supreme Court strikes down Texas abortion clinic regulations :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): On Monday, the Supreme Court struck down a 2013 Texas law regulating the safety of abortion clinics, saying in a 5-3 decision that it put an undue burden on a women’s right to an abortion.
The case had challenged two Texas regulations of abortion clinics: abortionists must have admitting privileges at a local hospital in case of a medical emergency at their clinic, and clinic buildings must meet the standards of ambulatory surgery centers. They must have proper sanitation, staffing, and medical experts on hand to deal with medical emergencies.
The case had challenged two Texas regulations of abortion clinics: abortionists must have admitting privileges at a local hospital in case of a medical emergency at their clinic, and clinic buildings must meet the standards of ambulatory surgery centers. They must have proper sanitation, staffing, and medical experts on hand to deal with medical emergencies.
Here's how you can tell that the universe is designed
Here's How You Can Tell That the Universe is Designed |Blogs | NCRegister.comTRASANCOS: Is the universe designed? When it comes to scientific evidence of God to refute atheism, people search for order in nature and for specific cases that demonstrate whether the order was created intentionally and intelligently. Thus, the evidence offered up tends to be truncated, selective based on what qualifies as design to the one posing arguments. My concern is that the bigger picture gets lost.
For example, the language of the genetic code is often called evidence of intelligent design, but I have never heard anyone call a decaying pile of peat moss proof of a designer, even though the genetics of dried Sphagnum direct the properties of peat moss. In the debates, “nature” is spoken of atheistically, by both Catholics and atheists, as if nature were the opposite of creation. The pile of moss would be deemed a random mess sprawled on the ground by blind chance—that is, by nature. But prescribed physical laws not only govern the composition of the biological material, they determine where every last bit of the organic matter falls and changes. The pile looks random to us, but it is not.
For example, the language of the genetic code is often called evidence of intelligent design, but I have never heard anyone call a decaying pile of peat moss proof of a designer, even though the genetics of dried Sphagnum direct the properties of peat moss. In the debates, “nature” is spoken of atheistically, by both Catholics and atheists, as if nature were the opposite of creation. The pile of moss would be deemed a random mess sprawled on the ground by blind chance—that is, by nature. But prescribed physical laws not only govern the composition of the biological material, they determine where every last bit of the organic matter falls and changes. The pile looks random to us, but it is not.
The unsolved mystery of Mr. Dickens
The Unsolved Mystery of Mr. Dickens - Crisis MagazineFITZPATRICK: Charles Dickens sat writing at his desk. He had been laboring more than was his custom on his latest book. Though the story was progressing well, Mr. Dickens was not feeling well. His left hand clawed at the air. His left foot dragged on the ground. And though he had recently retired from public performances with a final reading from Pickwick, his pen scarcely ceased its scratching. A profound and perplexing mystery was unfolding beneath that pen and Mr. Dickens’ knew it well. If only his readers might know it as well.
Sunday, June 26, 2016
Pope holds in-flight press conference on Brexit, deaconesses, Martin Luther, and “condition” of homosexuality
Full Text: Pope Francis’ In-Flight Press Conference from Armenia | Daily News | NCRegister.com: During his flight from Armenia to Rome on Sunday, Pope Francis gave a press conference to the assembled journalists aboard the papal plane. He reflected on his three-day trip to Armenia, his upcoming trips to Azerbaijan and Poland, the role of the Pope emeritus, Christian unity, and the Reformation.
He also addressed Brexit, the idea of deaconesses, and how the Church might apologize for unjust discrimination toward homosexual persons.
He also addressed Brexit, the idea of deaconesses, and how the Church might apologize for unjust discrimination toward homosexual persons.
Pope Francis at the crossroads of history
MondayVatican – Vatican � Pope Francis at the crossroads of History | MondayVaticanGAGLIARDUCCI: There is an anecdote that relates better than any other how Pope Francis tackles issues. Bishop Khajag Barsamiam, Primate of the Armenian Church in America, reported it. in a conversation with the author of this commentary. “Last year, before the Armenian-Rite Mass in St. Peter’s to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Armenian genocide, the Pope gave a lunch in Santa Marta for members of the Synod of the Armenian Church. We obviously talked about ecumenism. And the Pope said that theology was important, but encountering one another and praying were really crucial.”
Pope Francis shows Armenian Church that unity with Rome “lifts up the lowly”
Pope Francis in Armenia shows that size doesn't matter - CruxALLEN: In theory, at least, size doesn’t matter in Christianity. One’s spiritual dignity is not supposed to correlate with numbers of followers, infrastructure, or bank accounts; as Pope Benedict XVI once put it, “statistics are not our god.”
Rarely, however, will you see a clearer demonstration of that principle than what’s unfolded in Armenia during Pope Francis’s June 24-26 trip to this small nation in the South Caucasus region, on the dividing line between Eastern Europe and Western Asia.
By any worldly measure, a comparison between Pope Francis and His Holiness Karekin II, the Catholicos of All Armenians, is a total mismatch.
A pope leads a global faith made up of 1.2 billion people, presides over a sovereign state in the Vatican that has diplomatic relations with pretty much everybody, and is a media rock star all around the world.
Rarely, however, will you see a clearer demonstration of that principle than what’s unfolded in Armenia during Pope Francis’s June 24-26 trip to this small nation in the South Caucasus region, on the dividing line between Eastern Europe and Western Asia.
By any worldly measure, a comparison between Pope Francis and His Holiness Karekin II, the Catholicos of All Armenians, is a total mismatch.
A pope leads a global faith made up of 1.2 billion people, presides over a sovereign state in the Vatican that has diplomatic relations with pretty much everybody, and is a media rock star all around the world.
5 Protestants who surprisingly defended Mary's perpetual virginity
5 Protestants Who Surprisingly Defended Mary's Perpetual Virginity | ChurchPOPMILLEGAN: It is a dogma of the Catholic faith that the Blessed Virgin Mary was not only a virgin when she conceived and bore Jesus but that she remained a virgin ever after. Most Protestant Christians today deny this—but do they know that many of their early leaders believed it?
Here are 5 examples of major Protestant leaders who rejected huge swaths of Catholic dogma, but – you may surprised to learn – defended the perpetual virginity of Mary
Here are 5 examples of major Protestant leaders who rejected huge swaths of Catholic dogma, but – you may surprised to learn – defended the perpetual virginity of Mary
Pope Francis says Christians must apologize to “offended” homosexuals, other groups
Pope: Gays and Others Marginalized Deserve an Apology - ABC News: Catholics and other Christians not only must apologize to the gay community, they must ask forgiveness of God for ways they have discriminated against homosexual persons or fostered hostility toward them, Pope Francis said.
“I think the church not only must say it is sorry to the gay person it has offended, but also to the poor, to exploited women” and anyone whom the church did not defend when it could, he told reporters June 26.
Spending close to an hour answering questions from reporters traveling with him, Pope Francis was asked to comment on remarks reportedly made a few days previously by Cardinal Reinhard Marx, president of the German bishops’ conference, that the Catholic Church must apologize to gay people for contributing to their marginalization.
As the world grows more crazy and cruel, shun the mob and follow Jesus Christ
As the World Gets Meaner and Crazier, Follow Jesus Christ |Blogs | NCRegister.comHAMILTON: Peoples is crazy. And they are getting crazier.
They are also getting meaner. And more deadly.
California’s euthanasia law locked on recently, allowing medical murder. The support for this law comes from claims that killing people is actually a kindness to them, and those who opposed this killing lack compassion.
New York City’s Commission on Human Rights recently released a “guidance” for employers and landlords, requiring them to learn a new language or be fined $125,000 for accidentally saying the “wrong” thing, and up to $250,000 for saying the “wrong” thing on purpose.
They are also getting meaner. And more deadly.
California’s euthanasia law locked on recently, allowing medical murder. The support for this law comes from claims that killing people is actually a kindness to them, and those who opposed this killing lack compassion.
New York City’s Commission on Human Rights recently released a “guidance” for employers and landlords, requiring them to learn a new language or be fined $125,000 for accidentally saying the “wrong” thing, and up to $250,000 for saying the “wrong” thing on purpose.
Pope Francis and Armenian Catholicos Karekin II sign joint declaration on family, unity and solidarity
Pope Francis and Catholicos Karekin II Sign Joint Declaration on Family, Unity and Solidarity | Daily News | NCRegister.com: In a joint declaration signed Sunday, Pope Francis and Catholicos Karekin II expressed their shared belief that, when the family is no longer seen as sacred, it falls into crisis.
“The secularization of large sectors of society, its alienation from the spiritual and divine, leads inevitably to a desacralized and materialistic vision of man and the human family,” the June 26 declaration said. “In this respect we are concerned about the crisis of the family in many countries.”
“The secularization of large sectors of society, its alienation from the spiritual and divine, leads inevitably to a desacralized and materialistic vision of man and the human family,” the June 26 declaration said. “In this respect we are concerned about the crisis of the family in many countries.”
The Pope's prayer in Armenia: “May our communion be complete”
Whispers in the Loggia: In Armenia, The Pope's Prayer: "May Our Communion Be Complete"PALMO: Amid what's arguably been the most under-covered PopeTrip of recent times – all the more given the usual hysteria surrounding this pontificate – Francis' weekend trek to Armenia hasn't lacked for striking moments and, indeed, a pocket of controversy in the Pope's unscripted use of the charged word "genocide" in his remarks to the country's leadership: a move which, to the surprise of no one, set off another round of tension with the Turkish government.
All that said, however, the visit's core emphasis came earlier today as Papa Bergoglio attended a Divine Liturgy of the country's Oriental Orthodox Church in its home-base at Etchmiadzin, celebrated by the Catholicos (Patriarch) Karekin II.
All that said, however, the visit's core emphasis came earlier today as Papa Bergoglio attended a Divine Liturgy of the country's Oriental Orthodox Church in its home-base at Etchmiadzin, celebrated by the Catholicos (Patriarch) Karekin II.
Saturday, June 25, 2016
What a strong bishop can do
What a Strong Bishop Can Do - Human Life International: This week saw a rare victory in the international battle for truth and religious freedom. You may have heard that Antonio Cardinal Cañizares Llovera, archbishop of Valencia in Spain, had been threatened with legal action following a controversial homily he gave some months ago. In the homily, he criticized the extremely aggressive and overreaching “gay empire” that is attacking the family. He called Catholics to vigilance and prayer, calling for a defense of the family.
Catholic priests in Montreal banned from being alone with children
Catholic priests in Montreal banned from being alone with children | World news | The Guardian: Catholic priests in Montreal will be banned from being alone with children to provide a “safety net” against allegations of abuse.
Archbishop Christian Lepine has issued a decree to implement the policy, which also covers lay workers and volunteers.
According to the decree, the move was to “ensure the safety and integrity of the people to whom we bring the Gospel message and offer our pastoral care”. But, it added, it was also “to preserve the integrity, security and good reputation of God’s people”.
In an accompanying letter, Lepine said: “Recent events brought to light the horrific reality of abuse of minors and vulnerable people by members of the church. These intolerable situations have shocked and shaken the Universal Church as well as the entire population.”
Archbishop Christian Lepine has issued a decree to implement the policy, which also covers lay workers and volunteers.
According to the decree, the move was to “ensure the safety and integrity of the people to whom we bring the Gospel message and offer our pastoral care”. But, it added, it was also “to preserve the integrity, security and good reputation of God’s people”.
In an accompanying letter, Lepine said: “Recent events brought to light the horrific reality of abuse of minors and vulnerable people by members of the church. These intolerable situations have shocked and shaken the Universal Church as well as the entire population.”
Pope to Armenian Church: “Let us race towards full communion!”
Pope to Armenian Church: 'Let us race towards full communion!' :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): Working toward full communion is a project of love, humility and peace, Pope Francis told Armenian Orthodox leaders gathered at an ecumenical meeting on Saturday.
“With great joy, we are walking together on a journey that has already taken us far, and we look confidently towards the day when by God’s help we shall be united around the altar of Christ’s sacrifice in the fullness of Eucharistic communion,” he said.
“With great joy, we are walking together on a journey that has already taken us far, and we look confidently towards the day when by God’s help we shall be united around the altar of Christ’s sacrifice in the fullness of Eucharistic communion,” he said.
West Virginia is suffering historic flooding, and Bishop Michael Bransfield is asking for your prayers...
Statement from Bishop Bransfield: The Most Reverend Michael J. Bransfield, Bishop of the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston, today asked the state’s Catholics to join him in prayer during historic flooding in West Virginia.
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“We pray for those affected by this natural disaster, including those who have lost their homes and livelihoods; those who do not have electricity, food or clean water and, most importantly, for those who are injured and have lost loved ones,” Bransfield said. “Let us prayerfully remember those who died.” “As floodwaters rise and recede, I ask you to please join me in praying for the protection of the brave men and women who are working to bring relief to our neighbors,” he added.
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“We pray for those affected by this natural disaster, including those who have lost their homes and livelihoods; those who do not have electricity, food or clean water and, most importantly, for those who are injured and have lost loved ones,” Bransfield said. “Let us prayerfully remember those who died.” “As floodwaters rise and recede, I ask you to please join me in praying for the protection of the brave men and women who are working to bring relief to our neighbors,” he added.
If you want to become a true disciple of Jesus Christ, learn these 5 disciplines
Five Disciplines of Discipleship - A Homily for the 13th Sunday of the Year - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: There were three demons who told Satan about their plan to destroy a certain man. The first demon said, “I am going to tell him that there is no Hell.” But Satan said, “People know that there is a Hell and most have already visited here.” The second demon said, “I am going to tell him that there is no God.” But Satan said, “Despite atheism being fashionable of late, most people know, deep down, that there is a God, for he has written his name in their hearts.” The third demon said, “I am not going to tell them that there is no Hell or that there is no God; I am going to tell them that there is no hurry.” And Satan said, “You’re the man! That’s the plan!”
Full texts of Pope Francis' and Karekin's addresses at Saturday's ecumenical prayer vigil
Full Texts of Pope Francis' and Karekin's Addresses at Ecumenical Prayer Vigil |Blogs | NCRegister.com: I have greatly desired to visit this beloved land, your country, the first to embrace the Christian faith.� It is a grace for me to find myself here on these heights where, beneath the gaze of Mount Ararat, the very silence seems to speak.� Here the khatchkar – the stone crosses – recount a singular history bound up with rugged faith and immense suffering, a history replete with magnificent testimonies to the Gospel, to which you are heir.� I have come as a pilgrim from Rome to be with you and to express my heartfelt affection: the affection of your brother and the fraternal embrace of the whole Catholic Church, which esteems you and is close to you.
With Russian Church absent, new Orthodox leaders emerge
With Russian Church Absent, New Orthodox Leaders Emerge |Blogs | NCRegister.comGAETAN: At the Holy and Great Council of the Orthodox Church gathered in Kolymbari, Crete, family metaphors are common. Sister churches. Brother bishops.
Explaining why the concept of conciliarity means that each church is equal—i.e., that Russia isn’t more important than smaller churches—Dr. Ionut Mavrichi, spokesman for the Romanian Orthodox patriarchate, told the Register, “There’s no difference between a younger and an older brother.” �
Think of this pan-Orthodox council as a family meeting postponed for over 1,100 years. No wonder it hasn’t been an easy start.
Explaining why the concept of conciliarity means that each church is equal—i.e., that Russia isn’t more important than smaller churches—Dr. Ionut Mavrichi, spokesman for the Romanian Orthodox patriarchate, told the Register, “There’s no difference between a younger and an older brother.” �
Think of this pan-Orthodox council as a family meeting postponed for over 1,100 years. No wonder it hasn’t been an easy start.
The Tao of the Tau
The Tao of the Tau |Blogs | NCRegister.comSTAGNARO: As we make our elaborate Tau Day celebration plans, we should also stop to consider the other tau which is significant to Christians.
The Tau Cross, (T) named after the Greek letter it resembles, is also known as St. Anthony's Cross, the Old Testament Cross, the Anticipatory Cross, the Advent Cross and the Franciscan Cross.
The letter tau or T has been used as a symbol of the cross since the earliest Greek New Testament texts. However, the symbol is even older than that. In fact, the tau is identified as the sign angels gave to the Prophet Ezekiel to mark the foreheads of those Jews who were saved
The Tau Cross, (T) named after the Greek letter it resembles, is also known as St. Anthony's Cross, the Old Testament Cross, the Anticipatory Cross, the Advent Cross and the Franciscan Cross.
The letter tau or T has been used as a symbol of the cross since the earliest Greek New Testament texts. However, the symbol is even older than that. In fact, the tau is identified as the sign angels gave to the Prophet Ezekiel to mark the foreheads of those Jews who were saved
Who smiles like this at the moment of death?
Who smiles like this at the moment of death? - Testimony - Aleteia.org – Worldwide Catholic Network Sharing Faith Resources for those seeking Truth – Aleteia.org: Death is a tragedy for mortal man, and yet with faith in eternity and anticipation of the embrace of our heavenly Father, death becomes radiant.
We share today the news of the death of Sister Cecilia, a Carmelite of Santa Fe in Argentina, who suffered from lung cancer. She astonished those who surrounded her in her agony, as her face was transformed by a tender smile as she closed her eyes to this world. As you can see in the photograph, she looks like a lover who has arrived to the encounter she has long been yearning for.
We share today the news of the death of Sister Cecilia, a Carmelite of Santa Fe in Argentina, who suffered from lung cancer. She astonished those who surrounded her in her agony, as her face was transformed by a tender smile as she closed her eyes to this world. As you can see in the photograph, she looks like a lover who has arrived to the encounter she has long been yearning for.
Man gets entire plane to himself after fellow travelers catch other flights
Man Gets Entire Plane To Himself After Fellow Travelers Catch Other Flights – Consumerist: It’s not every day that the average traveler has an entire row of seats to take over, much less an entire plane. But one Delta passenger flying home this week got to experience the sweet sensation of being the only person on his flight when his fellow travelers opted to take other flights.
Everything worked out perfectly for the Atlanta man, despite his initial worries when he showed up to an empty gate area at the airport in New Orleans earlier this week.
“I was so nervous,” he told WSB-TV. “I couldn’t believe it. I felt like I missed my flight!”
A Delta staffer asked him if he’d like to travel home the next day instead, because he was the only passenger on the flight. As it turns out, other passengers had rescheduled after the original flight had been delayed a few times.
Everything worked out perfectly for the Atlanta man, despite his initial worries when he showed up to an empty gate area at the airport in New Orleans earlier this week.
“I was so nervous,” he told WSB-TV. “I couldn’t believe it. I felt like I missed my flight!”
A Delta staffer asked him if he’d like to travel home the next day instead, because he was the only passenger on the flight. As it turns out, other passengers had rescheduled after the original flight had been delayed a few times.
Your brain stays half awake when you sleep in a new place
Your Brain Stays Half Awake When You Sleep In A New Place | Popular Science: If you’ve ever slept in a hotel, gone camping, or even slept over at a friend’s pad, chances are you’ve woken up the next day feeling groggy and bleary-eyed. Even if you don’t remember tossing and turning, you probably felt pretty tired the next day. Well, that’s because nature dies hard. When we sleep in a new place, our brains are actually in survival mode, only turning half off, with one hemisphere remaining more “awake” than the other. Scientists from Brown University who discovered this phenomenon suggest that it makes us better able to jump awake when strange sounds approach. Their findings are published today in the journal Current Biology.
Is Francis the last pope? A rare interview with Archbishop Gänswein
Is Francis the last Pope? A rare interview with Archbishop G�nswein :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): What is Benedict XVI's own view of his historical resignation? What has the fall-out been from his secretary Archbishop Georg Gänswein's controversial remark on an “expanded petrine office”? What about the “Prophesy of Malachy,” which allegedly sees Francis as the last pontiff?
In a recent and candid conversation, veteran journalist and EWTN Rome correspondent Paul Badde sat down with Archbishop Gänswein, who gave his take on these and a number of other questions.
The German archbishop currently serves Pope Francis as Prefect of the Papal Household, and has also maintained his duties as secretary for retired pontiff Benedict XVI.
In a recent and candid conversation, veteran journalist and EWTN Rome correspondent Paul Badde sat down with Archbishop Gänswein, who gave his take on these and a number of other questions.
The German archbishop currently serves Pope Francis as Prefect of the Papal Household, and has also maintained his duties as secretary for retired pontiff Benedict XVI.
Friday, June 24, 2016
Cardinal Marx: Catholics must apologize to homosexuals and respect same-sex relationships
Church must apologise to gay people, pope’s adviser declares: A leading cardinal has said the Catholic Church should apologise to the gay community for its scandalous and terrible treatment of them, which had not changed until “very recently”.
Speaking in Dublin, Cardinal Reinhard Marx said: “The history of homosexuals in our societies is very bad because we’ve done a lot to marginalise [them].”
As church and society “we’ve also to say ‘sorry, sorry’ ”.
The German cardinal is a member of the council of nine cardinals chosen by Pope Francis to advise him.
Speaking in Dublin, Cardinal Reinhard Marx said: “The history of homosexuals in our societies is very bad because we’ve done a lot to marginalise [them].”
As church and society “we’ve also to say ‘sorry, sorry’ ”.
The German cardinal is a member of the council of nine cardinals chosen by Pope Francis to advise him.
Britain needs more than Brexit. It needs Jesus Christ...
Britain Needs More Than Brexit | Daily News | NCRegister.comBOGLE: As Britain voted whether to leave the European Union or remain, rain lashed down across London, flooding main railway lines and parts of the London Underground. The previous day had been warm and sticky, with massive thunderstorms overnight.
Midsummer can be a strange season: June 24 dawned warm and faintly sunny, as people woke to the news that a majority had voted “Brexit,” Prime Minister David Cameron was about to resign and a new chapter had opened in political history.
Midsummer can be a strange season: June 24 dawned warm and faintly sunny, as people woke to the news that a majority had voted “Brexit,” Prime Minister David Cameron was about to resign and a new chapter had opened in political history.
What does Brexit have to do with Catholic Social Teaching?
Brexit and Catholic Social Teaching | Catholic AnswersBOGLE: The United Kingdom—and at the moment it is still united—has voted to leave the European Union. Are there any specifically Catholic aspects to this decision? On the face of it, yes—at least in general terms.
The European Union had Catholic roots: the vision of Catholic thinkers and politicians including Robert Schuman, Alcide de Gaspetri, and Konrad Adenauer in the years immediately following World War II. The aim was so to lock together the economies of the major Western European nations as to make war between them impossible and, because of the trust thus forged, unthinkable. These were the years of the Cold War, of Stalin’s brutality in the Soviet Union and Eastern Europe, of Germany recovering some hope amid ruined cities and broken people.
The European Union had Catholic roots: the vision of Catholic thinkers and politicians including Robert Schuman, Alcide de Gaspetri, and Konrad Adenauer in the years immediately following World War II. The aim was so to lock together the economies of the major Western European nations as to make war between them impossible and, because of the trust thus forged, unthinkable. These were the years of the Cold War, of Stalin’s brutality in the Soviet Union and Eastern Europe, of Germany recovering some hope amid ruined cities and broken people.
When NBA Finals MVP Lebron James cited Jesus' Second Coming in a post-game interview
When NBA Finals MVP Lebron James Cited Jesus' Second Coming in a Post-Game Interview | ChurchPOPMILLEGAN: NBA star Lebron James just led his team the Cleveland Cavaliers to their first NBA Championship, and his third. James is considered to be one of the best basketball players ever and was named MVP of the NBA Playoffs.
But did you know that James believes in Jesus Christ?
At least that’s what it seems like given something he said publicly in 2015. His team lost a game in overtime, and it was clear that James was not getting enough support from his teammates. Part of the problem was that two key players were injured at the time, but James pointed out in a post-game interview that getting them back wouldn’t solve the problem alone.
But did you know that James believes in Jesus Christ?
At least that’s what it seems like given something he said publicly in 2015. His team lost a game in overtime, and it was clear that James was not getting enough support from his teammates. Part of the problem was that two key players were injured at the time, but James pointed out in a post-game interview that getting them back wouldn’t solve the problem alone.
This is the ultimate Jeopardy question
The Ultimate Jeopardy Question | Strange Notions: “Why is there something rather than nothing?” In The Grand Design (2010), Stephen Hawking made headlines by denying the need for God to get matter to jump into being; the law of gravity was enough to do it. Then, Lawrence Krauss created a Youtube sensation and book called, A Universe from Nothing: Why There Is Something Rather than Nothing (2012), that made the same case, including an afterward by Richard Dawkins who heralded it as a death blow to the last proof for the existence of God. Jim Holt’s bestselling, Why Does the World Exist? An Existential Detective Story (2012), surveyed contemporary thinkers on this ultimate question as he sought some alternative to the theistic answer to the question. For these authors, the question is ultimate, but God isn’t.
Due to this explosion of interest in the question and the common aversion to God as the answer, it is worth asking a second-order question about the question: Why is there the question, “Why is there something rather than nothing?”?
Due to this explosion of interest in the question and the common aversion to God as the answer, it is worth asking a second-order question about the question: Why is there the question, “Why is there something rather than nothing?”?
One priest's concern about recent remarks by the Pope
One Priest’s Concern About Recent Remarks by the Pope |Blogs | NCRegister.comPOPE: I would like to make, as a parish priest in trenches, a few remarks concerning the Pope’s recent statements in Rome at a gathering of priests and seminarians. Others have admirably remarked on his troubling remarks on marriage and cohabitation. I will not add to those. But I would like to focus on two other reported remarks the Pope made about priests to the effect that some of us are cruel, are putting our noses into people’s moral life and possibly that he even called some of us animals.
Archbishop Wenski: “Regime of political correctness” must end
Abp. Wenski: "Regime of Political Correctness" Must End |Blogs | NCRegister.comMATTARCHBOLD: Delivering the homily at the Fortnight for Freedom Mass earlier this week, Archbishop Thomas Wenski invoked the martyrdoms of Sts. Thomas More and John Fisher as increasingly relevant in today's culture of intolerance toward Christianity. Speaking at the Little Flower Church in Coral Gables, Archbishop Wenski described the two martyrs as "men for our season."
"Today, a regime of 'political correctness' wishes to impose itself on us and force us to conform ourselves, our values and our beliefs to the ascendant secularism of our time," he said.
"Today, a regime of 'political correctness' wishes to impose itself on us and force us to conform ourselves, our values and our beliefs to the ascendant secularism of our time," he said.
There's a right way to fight tyranny, and a wrong way
There's a Right Way to Fight Tyranny, and a Wrong Way |Blogs | NCRegister.comKOSLOSKI: During this Fortnight for Freedom, the US Bishops have asked us to “Hold firm, stand fast, and insist upon what belongs to you by right as Catholics. — Our First, Most Cherished Liberty.” Furthermore, Archbishop Lori has pointed out that we must fight for freedom in a spirit of joy, signaling out the Little Sister of the Poor saying, “Look at the Little Sisters of the Poor, They are certainly defending themselves, but they are also joyful. They are not just trying to win a lawsuit. They are bearing witness to the Gospel, and doing so joyfully.”
Never forget: The Word became flesh to make you a “partaker of the divine nature”
Interview with Fr. David Vincent Meconi, SJ - Thomas International Center: In April of this year Ignatius Press published Called to Be the Children of God, a collection of essays on deification in Catholic theology throughout the history of the Church and co-edited by Fr. David Vincent Meconi, SJ and Carl Olson. We asked Fr. Meconi to do an interview about the book and he graciously agreed.
What Brexit Britain could have learned from Pope Francis’s synod
What Brexit Britain could have learned from Pope Francis’s synod - CruxIVEREIGH: Now I know why I felt a deep dread when the British prime minister, David Cameron, announced an in-out European Union referendum. Britain, the third most powerful country in Europe and the fifth largest economy in the world, has voted by a thin majority to leave, dealing the EU a massive blow.
Sterling has plunged, the prime minister will resign. Massive political, financial and economic uncertainty follow. The United Kingdom faces disunity, splitting down its Scottish and Irish borders.
This Referendum should never have been called. Rather than enabling a solution to real problems, it has divided our nation, forcing an artificial polarization that has ended in a disastrous outcome.
Sterling has plunged, the prime minister will resign. Massive political, financial and economic uncertainty follow. The United Kingdom faces disunity, splitting down its Scottish and Irish borders.
This Referendum should never have been called. Rather than enabling a solution to real problems, it has divided our nation, forcing an artificial polarization that has ended in a disastrous outcome.
Miami’s Archbishop Wenski calls out St. Petersburg's Bishop Lynch for judgmental pro-gay remarks
ADOM :: Sts. Thomas More and John Fisher: Men for our season: The Church of the Little Flower is blessed today to receive relics of two great English saints: one, St. Thomas More, was a statesman, an intellectual, a Catholic layman who took his baptism seriously; the other was a bishop who also took his office as bishop seriously.
Both were martyred by King Henry VIII because they would not consent to his making himself the head of the Church in England, which he did because the Pope would not allow him to divorce his wife. In order to have his way, he shattered the unity of the Church in his nation by separating it from Peter and Peter’s successors, the bishops of Rome.
St. Thomas More’s life is recounted in a famous play, later made into a motion picture called, “A Man for All Seasons.” The two saints, St. Thomas More and St. John Fisher, are men for our season, for the times in which we live. Today, a regime of “political correctness” wishes to impose itself on us and force us to conform ourselves, our values and our beliefs to the ascendant secularism of our time.
Both were martyred by King Henry VIII because they would not consent to his making himself the head of the Church in England, which he did because the Pope would not allow him to divorce his wife. In order to have his way, he shattered the unity of the Church in his nation by separating it from Peter and Peter’s successors, the bishops of Rome.
St. Thomas More’s life is recounted in a famous play, later made into a motion picture called, “A Man for All Seasons.” The two saints, St. Thomas More and St. John Fisher, are men for our season, for the times in which we live. Today, a regime of “political correctness” wishes to impose itself on us and force us to conform ourselves, our values and our beliefs to the ascendant secularism of our time.
You are called to be a witness in a new age of martyrdom
Refuse the New Idol Worship - Those Catholic Men Inc.STAUDT: When we think of the age of the martyrs, the great witness against the idol worship of the Roman Empire comes to mind. The Romans did not force any kind of religious uniformity on its conquered territories, save that the Roman Emperor himself could be included in a wide pantheon of gods. In a way, the Romans were forcing relativism and tolerance on their citizens: everyone can worship whatever god they prefer, as long as they do so in obedience to the divine emperor. The Empire outlawed Christianity for refusing to enter into this state sponsored pantheon.
Pope St. John Paul II on the Solemnity of the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist
Pope St. John Paul II on the Solemnity of the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist | TOM PERNAPERNA: Today in the both lungs of the Catholic Church, the East and the West, we celebrate the Solemnity of the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist, or as it is titled in the East – Nativity of the Holy Glorious Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist John. St. John the Baptist is the son of Saints Zachariah and Elizabeth and the last great Old Testament prophet. He is the harbinger of Jesus Christ. It would be hard to imagine that a Christian would not know the story behind Saint John the Baptist, but in case you don’t, you can read a simple and short explanation of that here.
In our age of the New Evangelization, Saint John the Baptist is an example of one who preached with passion, strength, humility and courage. He was not afraid, even in the face of grave danger, to speak the truth and prepare the way for Jesus Christ. As John the Baptist preached, so must we also speak in the ways associated with our God-given gifts, the same dynamic message in our current culture – a culture that stays anything and everything is okay as long as it makes you feel good, a motto frequently professed by King Herod.
In our age of the New Evangelization, Saint John the Baptist is an example of one who preached with passion, strength, humility and courage. He was not afraid, even in the face of grave danger, to speak the truth and prepare the way for Jesus Christ. As John the Baptist preached, so must we also speak in the ways associated with our God-given gifts, the same dynamic message in our current culture – a culture that stays anything and everything is okay as long as it makes you feel good, a motto frequently professed by King Herod.
5 amazingly introverted saints and why they're important
5 Amazingly Introverted Saints and Why They're Important – EpicPew: We live in a world that primarily values extroversion. From the time we are children, we are taught that being gregarious and outgoing is the path to success, while being reserved and solitary is the sure way to failure.
It’s no wonder. We live in a culture of personality.
In today’s fast-paced, highly-connected world, it’s the larger-than-life personalities that seem to get ahead, and the professional world is structured to reward those who are “team players”, those who draw energy from being around other people. It isn’t sex, but sociability that sells. Corporations are increasingly embracing open office plans with little to no privacy in order to encourage “teaming”, and a high premium is placed on public speaking skills.
It’s no wonder. We live in a culture of personality.
In today’s fast-paced, highly-connected world, it’s the larger-than-life personalities that seem to get ahead, and the professional world is structured to reward those who are “team players”, those who draw energy from being around other people. It isn’t sex, but sociability that sells. Corporations are increasingly embracing open office plans with little to no privacy in order to encourage “teaming”, and a high premium is placed on public speaking skills.
Should Christians fly the rainbow flag?
Should Christians Fly the Rainbow Flag? | Catholic AnswersHORN: Before Christians associate themselves with any particular symbol, even to show solidarity with victims of violence, they must be familiar with the symbol’s meaning. Nothing, not even compassion for the victimized, can justify promoting a message that is at odds with the gospel.
For example, would an act of violence committed against a group of Satanists make it appropriate to put their version of the pentagram on our social media profiles? No, because even though it would be wrong to violently attack that group of people, there are other ways to show support for these victims without promoting a symbol associated with demons and blasphemy.
At this point some people, incapable of understanding an argument from analogy, may say, “He’s comparing the LGBT community to Satanists!” No, I am simply saying it’s possible to condemn an act of violence without promoting the ideology of the victims or promoting a symbol that embodies that ideology.
For example, would an act of violence committed against a group of Satanists make it appropriate to put their version of the pentagram on our social media profiles? No, because even though it would be wrong to violently attack that group of people, there are other ways to show support for these victims without promoting a symbol associated with demons and blasphemy.
At this point some people, incapable of understanding an argument from analogy, may say, “He’s comparing the LGBT community to Satanists!” No, I am simply saying it’s possible to condemn an act of violence without promoting the ideology of the victims or promoting a symbol that embodies that ideology.
Pin the tale on the Christian? An ancient blame game is still in use...
Pin The Tale On The Christian? An Ancient Blame Game Still In UseCLARK: It would be a terrible understatement to say that Christians received a lion’s share of the blame for Roman society’s ills. Much more than that, Christianity essentially received all the blame; indeed, that was an institutional part of the societal framework.
Tertullian noted that Christians were being blamed not only for every class of crime (including, of course Christianity itself, which was a capital crime) but for every particular crime. Everything was seen as the fault of a Christian: agricultural misfortune, environmental changes, unlucky rolls of dice.
Everything.
Tertullian noted that Christians were being blamed not only for every class of crime (including, of course Christianity itself, which was a capital crime) but for every particular crime. Everything was seen as the fault of a Christian: agricultural misfortune, environmental changes, unlucky rolls of dice.
Everything.
Some of God's gifts come in strange and terrifying packages
Living Near the Edge - A Meditation on Some of God’s More Terrifying Gifts - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: We live just above a fiery cauldron, separated from it by a thin membrane of earthly crust rife with cracks through which fire routinely flares in volcanoes, a crust that is always shifting and even shaking violently in earthquakes.
And yet, were it not for this cauldron beneath us, it seems unlikely that we would have life here at all. Volcanoes and other tectonic activity keep our soil rich and recycled. In this fiery cauldron are brewed some of our most useful minerals and our most beautiful gems. Entire island chains and land masses are formed by eruptions; geothermal energy is a resource we have just begun to tap. Many scientists think that volcanoes had a profound influence on the formation of Earth’s atmosphere and that the molten core of the Earth has an important influence on the Van Allen belts, magnetic fields that keep the harmful portion of the sun’s radiation away from the Earth’s surface.
And yet, were it not for this cauldron beneath us, it seems unlikely that we would have life here at all. Volcanoes and other tectonic activity keep our soil rich and recycled. In this fiery cauldron are brewed some of our most useful minerals and our most beautiful gems. Entire island chains and land masses are formed by eruptions; geothermal energy is a resource we have just begun to tap. Many scientists think that volcanoes had a profound influence on the formation of Earth’s atmosphere and that the molten core of the Earth has an important influence on the Van Allen belts, magnetic fields that keep the harmful portion of the sun’s radiation away from the Earth’s surface.
Brexit showed “will of the people”, says Pope Francis
Pope Francis: Brexit Showed 'Will of the People' |Blogs | NCRegister.comPENTIN: Pope Francis has said the result of the U.K.’s referendum to leave the European Union reflects the “will of the people” and that there is now a “great responsibility” to ensure the well being of people in the U.K. and peaceful coexistence on continental Europe.
Addressing reporters on the papal plane to Armenia in a sombre mood, the Holy Father said he had only read basic information in Il Messaggero newspaper about the result of the vote just before leaving Rome, but said he felt it was “the will of the people”.
Addressing reporters on the papal plane to Armenia in a sombre mood, the Holy Father said he had only read basic information in Il Messaggero newspaper about the result of the vote just before leaving Rome, but said he felt it was “the will of the people”.
Thursday, June 23, 2016
3 ways to push back against anti-Christian witch hunts
3 Ways to Push Back Against Anti-Christian Witch Hunts |Blogs | NCRegister.comDESMOND: “Have Christians Created a Harmful Atmosphere for Gays?” asked The New York Times’ opinion page, in the wake of Omar Mateen's deadly attack on a gay nightclub in Orlando that killed 49 people.
Mateen was a Muslim who pledged allegiance to the Islamic State on Facebook and in calls to 911. After the massacre, political and religious leaders, including many Catholic bishops, rightly warned the public not to retaliate by scapegoating people of his faith.
But, instead, Christians were ambushed by allegations that they bore some responsibility for the deadliest shooting in the nation's history. And some LGBT activists and their media allies accused opponents of same-sex marriage who expressed outrage at the attack and called for prayers of being “hypocritical.”
Mateen was a Muslim who pledged allegiance to the Islamic State on Facebook and in calls to 911. After the massacre, political and religious leaders, including many Catholic bishops, rightly warned the public not to retaliate by scapegoating people of his faith.
But, instead, Christians were ambushed by allegations that they bore some responsibility for the deadliest shooting in the nation's history. And some LGBT activists and their media allies accused opponents of same-sex marriage who expressed outrage at the attack and called for prayers of being “hypocritical.”
Pope John Paul II and the secret history of Europe
Pope John Paul II & the Secret History of EuropeTURLEY: It was 1979 and a Pole unknown to the Western World was elected Pope. To the Communist East, this event was as much of a surprise. Nevertheless, neither East nor West could have imagined just what an impact the outcome of that Papal election would have upon the world’s political balance.
Decades earlier, Stalin had dismissed the Church mockingly asking how many ‘divisions’ the Pope had at his disposal. On that October night in 1979, as the flashlights and cameras focused on the newly elected Pope as he greeted the crowds below him in St. Peter’s Square, the now dead Soviet dictator and his successors were about to have their answer.
Decades earlier, Stalin had dismissed the Church mockingly asking how many ‘divisions’ the Pope had at his disposal. On that October night in 1979, as the flashlights and cameras focused on the newly elected Pope as he greeted the crowds below him in St. Peter’s Square, the now dead Soviet dictator and his successors were about to have their answer.
A discussion of the question of women deacons on Fox News
The Dawn Patrol: I discuss the question of women deacons on Fox NewsEDEN: What to make of the arguments for ordaining women deacons? I debate the issue with Christopher Jolly Hale of Catholics in Alliance for the Common Good on Fox News religion correspondent Lauren Green's "Spirited Debate." The segment is a reprise of the discussion that Hale and I had in the New York Times's Room for Debate.
This commentator seems pleased with Iceland's last-minute goal against Austria
New Advent: This commentator seems pleased with Iceland's last-minute goal against Austria: They call him “Gummi Ben”, and his commentary has made him famous today.
This summer, dress for church like a Roman tourist
This summer, dress for church like a Roman tourist | Catholic World Report - Global Church news and viewsGRESS: It is that time of year again, when skirts get shorter and necklines get plunge-ier. Last week at Mass I saw a teenage girl and her family bring up the gifts. Her skirt was so short she couldn’t bow to the priest after passing off the gifts, for fear that everything would be revealed.
For the two years I lived in Rome, I was always grateful for the visual images outside of churches to remind tourists and pilgrims alike what was expected of women and men entering a church. These signs, likely put up when fashions changed and non-Catholics didn’t know that they needed to have their shoulders covered, etc., have morphed into signs for just about anyone—non-Catholic and Catholic alike.
For the two years I lived in Rome, I was always grateful for the visual images outside of churches to remind tourists and pilgrims alike what was expected of women and men entering a church. These signs, likely put up when fashions changed and non-Catholics didn’t know that they needed to have their shoulders covered, etc., have morphed into signs for just about anyone—non-Catholic and Catholic alike.
The Cold War hero who averted World War III
The Cold War Hero Who Averted World War III |Blogs | NCRegister.comGRESS: Soviet communism was a very bloody business. While the number of Jews killed by the Nazis – six million – is generally viewed as the height of atrocities, the Soviet Gulags, forced labor camps where people were worked to death, were in fact much, much worse in terms of numbers. The rough numbers of those who died in the Gulags is estimated to be around twenty million, although as Anne Applebaum in her book “Gulag: A History” explained, this number does not touch those who died because relatives were sent to camps. Millions of the very young and the very old died from starvation or disease because there was no one left to care for them.
What's with these weird “good thoughts” everyone's sending?
What's with These Weird "Good Thoughts" Everyone's Sending? |Blogs | NCRegister.comMATTARCHBOLD: I heard someone say "I'll keep a good thought for you" on the side of the softball field the other day. (Well, pretty much any interaction I have with adults is on the side of a field or a court nowadays.)
But some lady was explaining that her mother was sick and her husband has been drinking again. My heart broke for her. (I'll never get over the way women talk to each other and really connect whereas guys could have all sorts of calamities and debacles occurring and sit there and talk about football and politics.) But anyway, this other woman said, "I'll keep a good thought for you."
What the heck is that? Seriously. What even is that? We've all heard things like people talking about "good thoughts" and "positive waves." What, is everyone psychic now? I say, roll up your yoga mat and take your "good thoughts" with you. See you at the maypole dance.
So there's a few possibilities for this odd verbal phrasing.
But some lady was explaining that her mother was sick and her husband has been drinking again. My heart broke for her. (I'll never get over the way women talk to each other and really connect whereas guys could have all sorts of calamities and debacles occurring and sit there and talk about football and politics.) But anyway, this other woman said, "I'll keep a good thought for you."
What the heck is that? Seriously. What even is that? We've all heard things like people talking about "good thoughts" and "positive waves." What, is everyone psychic now? I say, roll up your yoga mat and take your "good thoughts" with you. See you at the maypole dance.
So there's a few possibilities for this odd verbal phrasing.
Council of 10 Orthodox Churches sets sail on an even keel
Pan-Orthodox Council Sets Sail on Even Keel | Daily News | NCRegister.comGAETAN: Opening the first Holy and Great Council of Eastern Orthodox Churches in more than 1,100 years, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople led a packed auditorium at the Orthodox Academy of Crete in singing an apolytikion for Pentecost: Blessed are you, Christ our God, who revealed the fishermen to be most wise by sending down to them the Holy Spirit, and so through them catching the whole world in a net: Lover of mankind, glory to you!
Having raised their sights to Heaven — and locating this event in the Orthodox Church’s long history of councils without full attendance — the mood in Crete is decidedly more positive than it was during the two week lead up when four of 14 self-governing (“autocephalous”) Churches dropped out.
Having raised their sights to Heaven — and locating this event in the Orthodox Church’s long history of councils without full attendance — the mood in Crete is decidedly more positive than it was during the two week lead up when four of 14 self-governing (“autocephalous”) Churches dropped out.
Fascinating details of Pope Pius XII’s secret support for Hitler's overthrow
‘Church of Spies’: The Pope Who Fought Hitler | Daily News | NCRegister.com: Pope Pius XII’s secret support for the attempted overthrow of Nazi dictator Adolf Hitler is the subject of a book that draws on wartime documents and interviews with the American intelligence agent who wrote them.
“This book is the truth — as best I could establish it in a number of years of research — about the Pope’s secret operations in World War II,” historian Mark Riebling told CNA earlier this year.
“Its main premise is that Pius opted to resist Hitler with covert action instead of overt protest. As a result, he became involved in three separate plots by German dissidents to remove Hitler.”
“This book is the truth — as best I could establish it in a number of years of research — about the Pope’s secret operations in World War II,” historian Mark Riebling told CNA earlier this year.
“Its main premise is that Pius opted to resist Hitler with covert action instead of overt protest. As a result, he became involved in three separate plots by German dissidents to remove Hitler.”
Papal video messages are becoming an increasingly common means of communication
Papal Video Messages: An Increasingly Common Means of Communication |Blogs | NCRegister.comPENTIN: Video messages by popes — that is the Pope delivering a message of importance directly to camera — were unheard of until Benedict XVI’s pontificate but now have become a staple means of communication for the Holy Father, especially ahead of papal trips
Yesterday, Pope Francis gave a video message to Armenia on the eve of his visit there this weekend. He said he was visiting as a “messenger of peace”, to strengthen communion, to advance reconciliation, and “to allow ourselves together to be animated by hope.”
Yesterday, Pope Francis gave a video message to Armenia on the eve of his visit there this weekend. He said he was visiting as a “messenger of peace”, to strengthen communion, to advance reconciliation, and “to allow ourselves together to be animated by hope.”
In 'shocking' move, California churches forced to cover abortions
In 'shocking' move, California churches forced to cover abortions :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): The Obama administration has rejected a challenge to the State of California’s requirement that health care plans include abortion coverage. A major federal budget amendment intended to protect abortion foes does not apply, it ruled.
Leaders with the U.S. bishops’ conference said it was “shocking” that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services allowed the State of California to force all employers, including churches, to fund and facilitate elective abortions.
“Even those who disagree on the issue of life should be able to respect the conscience rights of those who wish not to be involved in supporting abortion,” Cardinal Timothy Dolan of New York and Archbishop William E. Lori of Baltimore said June 21.
Leaders with the U.S. bishops’ conference said it was “shocking” that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services allowed the State of California to force all employers, including churches, to fund and facilitate elective abortions.
“Even those who disagree on the issue of life should be able to respect the conscience rights of those who wish not to be involved in supporting abortion,” Cardinal Timothy Dolan of New York and Archbishop William E. Lori of Baltimore said June 21.
Wednesday, June 22, 2016
The “protector” saint of the Mexican border has a way of popping up
The “Protector” Saint of the Mexican Border Has a Way of Popping Up - Top Stories - Aleteia.org – Worldwide Catholic Network Sharing Faith Resources for those seeking Truth – Aleteia.org: Sometime during the early summer of 1973, Jesus Gaytan and two friends began making their way north to the United States. They were planning to sneak across the border and find work as farmhands. They did not care where, they just wanted, and needed, to work.
At the border their plans quickly unraveled. They were spotted by Border Patrol and, frightened, ran back toward Mexico. Jesus became separated from his friends and began wandering around the desert. He had no idea where he was. After several days of walking and wandering and without any food or water left, Jesus was sure he would die.
At the border their plans quickly unraveled. They were spotted by Border Patrol and, frightened, ran back toward Mexico. Jesus became separated from his friends and began wandering around the desert. He had no idea where he was. After several days of walking and wandering and without any food or water left, Jesus was sure he would die.
A review of the “Person of Interest” series finale
Requiem and Redemption: A Review of the “Person of Interest” Series FinaleROSSI: “We got into this to stop bad things from happening to good people.”
That’s how John Reese (Jim Caviezel) summed up his work with Harold Finch (Michael Emerson) during the first season of “Person of Interest,” the CBS TV series which aired its series finale last night (and which I’ll comment on a little further down). Reese and Finch certainly accomplished their goal, but along the way, they did something more. By involving some seemingly “bad people” in their quest, their nobility rubbed off and directed these characters’ moral arcs toward the good.
That’s how John Reese (Jim Caviezel) summed up his work with Harold Finch (Michael Emerson) during the first season of “Person of Interest,” the CBS TV series which aired its series finale last night (and which I’ll comment on a little further down). Reese and Finch certainly accomplished their goal, but along the way, they did something more. By involving some seemingly “bad people” in their quest, their nobility rubbed off and directed these characters’ moral arcs toward the good.
Learning Lectio Divina
Learning Lectio Divina | The Suburban HermitLONGENECKER: Lectio Divina, or Holy Reading, is a wonderful, monastic contribution to spirituality. It combines two aspects of the threefold Benedictine life of Work, Prayer and Reading.
When we participate in Lectio Divina we pray and read. We read and pray. The essential idea is that we read the sacred Scriptures not critically or even to gather information, but so that the Word of God might be a bridge into the presence of God.
There are four stages to this devotional discipline which were first outlined in the twelfth century by a Carthusian monk named Guigo.
The first stage is leggere “Reading”. We use a short passage of Scripture and simply read it slowly. It is fine to use the gospel reading from Mass for the day or to use the Scripture passage from the Office of Readings or to work you way slowly through a particular book of the Bible.
When we participate in Lectio Divina we pray and read. We read and pray. The essential idea is that we read the sacred Scriptures not critically or even to gather information, but so that the Word of God might be a bridge into the presence of God.
There are four stages to this devotional discipline which were first outlined in the twelfth century by a Carthusian monk named Guigo.
The first stage is leggere “Reading”. We use a short passage of Scripture and simply read it slowly. It is fine to use the gospel reading from Mass for the day or to use the Scripture passage from the Office of Readings or to work you way slowly through a particular book of the Bible.
Islamic extremists attack Christian village in Egypt, burn 80 homes
Islamic extremists attack Christian village in Egypt, burn 80 homes: A mob of over a thousand Islamic extremists attacked a Christian village destroying property and setting the homes of over 80 families ablaze over rumors that a Coptic man was converting a home into a church.
The attacks, which took place Friday in Egypt’s Qaryat Al-Bayda village, near Alexandria, left two Copts seriously injured and resulted in thousands of dollars worth of damage, according to a Coptic activist.
"A great deal of fanatic Muslims gathered in front of the new house of my cousin," Mousa Zarif, a Christian who witnessed the events, told Christian advocacy group International Christian Concern.
The attacks, which took place Friday in Egypt’s Qaryat Al-Bayda village, near Alexandria, left two Copts seriously injured and resulted in thousands of dollars worth of damage, according to a Coptic activist.
"A great deal of fanatic Muslims gathered in front of the new house of my cousin," Mousa Zarif, a Christian who witnessed the events, told Christian advocacy group International Christian Concern.
How to treat a jellyfish sting: An illustrated guide
How to Treat a Jellyfish Sting | The Art of Manliness: Perhaps the most harmless looking creature on the planet, jellyfish make up for their puffy appearance and cloud-like demeanor with a fierce arsenal of pain-inducing, sometimes fatally poisonous, stingers. Called nematocysts, the sharp barbs found along jellyfish tentacles bury into their target to cause painful reactions that can range from mildly irritating to deadly. If you’re stung by a jellyfish, ignore the urge to urinate on it because you saw it on a TV show. Treat your sting correctly with these simple steps.
Like lobsters and pigeons, wild pigs may orient their lives along magnetic fields
Like Lobsters and Pigeons, Wild Pigs May Orient Their Lives Along Magnetic Fields | Mental Floss: Gravity. Electricity. Magnets. These unseen forces have made life on Earth possible, and they continue to affect organisms every day, whether we realize it or not. Case in point: A new study found that foraging wild boars and warthogs align their bodies along a magnetic north-south axis. The research was published in the journal Mammal Review. This might sound like some wacky pig-specific phenomenon, but scientists are learning that it’s a relatively common behavior. Animals like lobsters, birds, butterflies, and foxes have all been observed aligning their bodies or homes along invisible magnetic lines. Just a few weeks ago, in early June 2016, researchers in the Czech Republic reported that startled roe deer prefer to flee along a north-south axis, even when that brings them closer to the threat.
Enormous bugs and where to avoid them
Enormous Bugs and Where to Avoid Them | Atlas Obscura: In far north New Zealand, on the edge of the Pacific, lies Little Barrier Island. There, on 11 square miles of mountainous terrain, you might find the Godzillas of the cricket world: Deinacrida heteracantha, or Wetapunga. The giant weta can grow up to 4 inches long and the largest ever found weighed 2.5 ounces and happily snacked on a carrot.
Other bugs have their own goliath versions as well. The Lord Howe Island stick insect—also known as the ‘tree lobster’—can measure up to nearly 5inches in length. The wingspan of at Atlas Moth is between 10-12 inches. More terrifyingly, the 2-inch long Asian Giant Hornet has a quarter-inch stinger with which to dispense its venom.
Other bugs have their own goliath versions as well. The Lord Howe Island stick insect—also known as the ‘tree lobster’—can measure up to nearly 5inches in length. The wingspan of at Atlas Moth is between 10-12 inches. More terrifyingly, the 2-inch long Asian Giant Hornet has a quarter-inch stinger with which to dispense its venom.
What Pope Francis forgets about marriage
What Francis Forgets About Marriage | Edward Peters | First ThingsEDPETERS: How can one square the beautiful ideal of marriage set out by Pope Francis in Amoris Laetitia with his bleak assessment of marriage in real life, which slipped out during a clergy conference last week? Only by avoiding one crucial point about marriage, namely, that it is fundamentally a contract.
Most contracts deal, of course, with narrowly defined activities, such as “fix my car” or “rent me this apartment.” In contrast, the marriage contract, upon the reciprocal expression of consent to its terms by a qualified man and woman, results in a complex and perduring state between those two persons (what modern canon law calls a “consortium of the whole of life”) and, if both spouses are baptized, in a sacrament that reflects the union of Christ with his Church. But whatever else marriage might be socially or spiritually, it is first a contract between two people.
Most contracts deal, of course, with narrowly defined activities, such as “fix my car” or “rent me this apartment.” In contrast, the marriage contract, upon the reciprocal expression of consent to its terms by a qualified man and woman, results in a complex and perduring state between those two persons (what modern canon law calls a “consortium of the whole of life”) and, if both spouses are baptized, in a sacrament that reflects the union of Christ with his Church. But whatever else marriage might be socially or spiritually, it is first a contract between two people.
Nursing is a difficult job. So why do we do it?
The Spirit of NursingBECKER: Nursing is a high calling, one that brings us to the very threshold of heaven. It’s a work that is as much a benefit and blessing to nurses as it is to the recipients of their care.
How so? What is it that drives us to be nurses?
Crazy hours; tiring, sometimes even exhausting work (and that not only physically, but mentally and emotionally exhausting as well); a huge amount of responsibility; innumerable multi-faceted and multi-layered demands that stretch the concept of multi-tasking to the extremes of human endurance.
How so? What is it that drives us to be nurses?
Crazy hours; tiring, sometimes even exhausting work (and that not only physically, but mentally and emotionally exhausting as well); a huge amount of responsibility; innumerable multi-faceted and multi-layered demands that stretch the concept of multi-tasking to the extremes of human endurance.
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