SDG Reviews ‘Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children’ | Daily News | NCRegister.comGREYDANUS: 1999 was a very good year for film, and how much more peculiar Tim Burton’s Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children might have been had it come out that year, before the X-Men and Harry Potter franchises were launched in 2000 and 2001, respectively.
Curiously gifted/cursed children who come together and live apart from the rest of the world at a secret establishment under the guidance of a wise and powerful British-accented mentor would have seemed fresher and more striking before the 14 or so films in those two franchises.
That wouldn’t make Miss Peregrine better or worse as a film, but perhaps it would have been easier to be more forgiving. Even in 1999, it would have to be admitted that Jake (Hugo’s Asa Butterfield) makes a dull protagonist. So did Harry Potter, admittedly, but then Harry had a horrific upbringing that made him immediately sympathetic, not to mention a mysterious back story, a sense of specialness, and remarkable gifts that were all quickly developed, whereas it’s a long time before Jake is anything but boring.
Friday, September 30, 2016
Dallas Bishop Kevin Farrell prepares for his move to the Vatican
Dallas' Catholic bishop prepares for move to Vatican | WFAA.com: On Friday, Bishop Kevin Farrell, the man who helped to unify and transform the Catholic Diocese of Dallas, will move on from the job he thought he would retire from.
Bishop Farrell has been promoted to a new position at the Vatican where he will be the highest-ranking American working directly with Pope Francis. He sat down with us for a final interview about what lies ahead both for him and the Diocese of Dallas.
"I thought it was a joke. Why would he have picked me? I do not know," said Bishop Kevin Farrell.
The bishop of the Diocese of Dallas is still taken aback by the news. How did he get the attention of the pope?
Bishop Farrell has been promoted to a new position at the Vatican where he will be the highest-ranking American working directly with Pope Francis. He sat down with us for a final interview about what lies ahead both for him and the Diocese of Dallas.
"I thought it was a joke. Why would he have picked me? I do not know," said Bishop Kevin Farrell.
The bishop of the Diocese of Dallas is still taken aback by the news. How did he get the attention of the pope?
“Harrowing” is the best word to describe “Deepwater Horizon”
SDG Reviews ‘Deepwater Horizon’ | Daily News | NCRegister.comGREYDANUS: It’s the fact-based story about 126 men and women on 52,590 tons of steel and concrete 40 miles off the Louisiana coast during a worst-case scenario. “Worst-case scenario” in this context involves a string of catastrophic failures and mistakes leading to a massive oil-rig blowout, torrents of oil, devastating explosions and flying shrapnel, and a massive tower of flames hundreds of feet high visible from the coast.
5 times a ship's anchor got a little carried away
5 Times a Ship's Anchor Got a Little Carried Away: Anchors are a pretty important part of any ship. They keep it in place out in the open ocean. On large ships, anchors can weigh several tons, and the chains attached to them can weigh several more. When dealing with heavy equipment, sometimes things can get a little out of hand. Here are a few times when it did.
The grumpy old guy (Jerome) and the little girl (Thérèse)
The Grumpy Old Guy and the Little GirlLONGENECKER: Today’s feast day for St Jerome falls happily the day before the feast of St Therese of Lisieux. St Therese said, “How different are all the saints! In heaven the greatest doctor of the church will sit down with a little child.”
So it is with these two. St Jerome–the cave dweller and patron of all bookish types who retreat to their cave and don’t like to be disturbed: St Jerome–the patron saint of curmudgeons and scholars. St Jerome was a noted controversialist and unwilling to compromise with the spirit of the age.
So it is with these two. St Jerome–the cave dweller and patron of all bookish types who retreat to their cave and don’t like to be disturbed: St Jerome–the patron saint of curmudgeons and scholars. St Jerome was a noted controversialist and unwilling to compromise with the spirit of the age.
This is the question non-Christians should ask, but don't...
The Question Non-Christians Should Ask - But Don'tCLARK: The story is told that a bishop was giving a speech at a progressive university, after which he invited the audience to ask questions.
One skeptical wiseacre chimed in with a question evidently designed to make the bishop—and Christianity—look foolish. He asked: “Bishop, do you really believe that Jonah was swallowed by a whale and lived inside it for three days?”
The bishop responded, “Yes, I do.”
The wiseacre followed up: “Well, can you tell me how something like that could happen?”
One skeptical wiseacre chimed in with a question evidently designed to make the bishop—and Christianity—look foolish. He asked: “Bishop, do you really believe that Jonah was swallowed by a whale and lived inside it for three days?”
The bishop responded, “Yes, I do.”
The wiseacre followed up: “Well, can you tell me how something like that could happen?”
When scientists created the 3-parent baby, they killed 4 unborn children in the process
When Scientists Created the 3-Parent Baby, They Killed 4 Unborn Children in the Process | LifeNews.com: Fertility doctors have brought a baby to birth from an embryo created artificially with the biological substances of two women and one man.
That could be illegal in many places, so the American doctors went to Mexico to do the procedure. From the Science story...
That could be illegal in many places, so the American doctors went to Mexico to do the procedure. From the Science story...
Here’s a notion: Don’t watch the debates. It's not a good use of your time...
Here’s a notion: Don’t watch the debates - Opinion - Aleteia.org – Worldwide Catholic Network Sharing Faith Resources for those seeking Truth – Aleteia.orgMILLS: On Monday night, my wife having gone to sleep, because she’s one of those weird creatures who get up at unimaginable hours of the morning, I took my laptop over to our nearby pub to work and watch the football game. I think I used my time better than those of you who watched the presidential debate. Plus I got draft beer and the Monday night half-price burger special, and got to talk to some people I know.
American presidents can have everything — except the car keys
US presidents can have everything - except the car keys: In a country as car-oriented as the United States, the draw of the driver's seat is strong. The security imperative is stronger. The threat to top US officials is ever-present, and the agents who squire current and former presidents are trained in evasive and defensive driving manoeuvres.
Around the world in a stack of pancakes
Around the World in Pancakes | Serious Eats: For most Americans, the word 'pancake' conjures a stack of fluffy, hot-off-the-griddle flapjacks, a pat of butter slowly melting beneath a rivulet of maple syrup. But pancakes take myriad forms around the world, from delicate French crêpes sprinkled with sugar to spongy, sour Ethiopian injera to chewy-crisp Japanese okonomiyaki, studded with seafood and drizzled with sticky brown sauce and mayo.
Don't be misled by these 3 red herrings
On Red Herrings and Heresy |Blogs | NCRegister.comLONGENECKER: A red herring might be defined as a rhetorical device to distract someone from the real argument. There are three such relativistic devices–heresies or red herrings–that are used in our society constantly. They may be named the sentimental heresy, the utilitarian heresy and the political heresy.�
These forms of argument are, for the most part, subjective and relativistic. Like every red herring, they seem to be strong arguments, but they are false and misleading.
These forms of argument are, for the most part, subjective and relativistic. Like every red herring, they seem to be strong arguments, but they are false and misleading.
Troubled by America’s leadership? Blame abortion...
Troubled by America’s Leadership? Blame Abortion |Blogs | NCRegister.comGRESS: 40 Days for Life is kicking off its fall campaign this week. Of the many efforts to stop abortion in America, few are succeeding like this peaceful, prayerful protest. This year’s campaign includes 367 vigil locations in the U.S. with 23 other countries hosting campaigns. Since its inception in 2007, nearly 12,000 babies have been saved (that they know of), 75 abortion clinics have closed, and 133 abortion clinic workers have quit.
But what does this have to do with our election? While the 40 day campaign is set to end just two days shy of election day, the bigger issue is our leadership. Polls are showing that dissatisfaction with the two candidates for president is widespread, with voters in both parties unhappy with their candidate. Many are asking how out of all the people in the county, the race has narrowed down to these two. But for one priest, the answer to such a question was no mystery.
But what does this have to do with our election? While the 40 day campaign is set to end just two days shy of election day, the bigger issue is our leadership. Polls are showing that dissatisfaction with the two candidates for president is widespread, with voters in both parties unhappy with their candidate. Many are asking how out of all the people in the county, the race has narrowed down to these two. But for one priest, the answer to such a question was no mystery.
Pope Francis journeys to the Caucasus, a Christian-Muslim crossroads
War and Peace: Pope Francis Journeys to the Caucasus, a Christian-Muslim Crossroads | Daily News | NCRegister.comGAETAN: Pope Francis is journeying to an enchanting place this weekend — magical, multiethnic, multi-faith and intermittently dangerous.
Knowing a bit about the geography and history of Georgia and Azerbaijan, where the Holy Father will be Sept. 30-Oct. 2, plus Armenia, where he journeyed June 24-26, helps explain the complex sensitivities and long history linking the three countries.
The region, known as the Caucasus, is a thick isthmus between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea. A dramatic mountain range runs diagonally through the landmass. South of the mountains are three small countries in Pope Francis’ headlights: Georgia, Azerbaijan and Armenia.
For centuries, this land has been a zone of conflict and contest.
Knowing a bit about the geography and history of Georgia and Azerbaijan, where the Holy Father will be Sept. 30-Oct. 2, plus Armenia, where he journeyed June 24-26, helps explain the complex sensitivities and long history linking the three countries.
The region, known as the Caucasus, is a thick isthmus between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea. A dramatic mountain range runs diagonally through the landmass. South of the mountains are three small countries in Pope Francis’ headlights: Georgia, Azerbaijan and Armenia.
For centuries, this land has been a zone of conflict and contest.
Pope arrives in Tbilisi for 3-day visit to Georgia and Azerbaijan
In Georgia, Pope says true peace is built on justice, mutual respect :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): Pope Francis landed in Georgia Friday, telling leaders of the former Soviet republic that peace is urgent in today’s troubled world, and can only be achieved by the pursuit of justice and mutual respect for the sovereign rights of every nation.
After landing in Georgia Sept. 30, the Pope insisted that peaceful coexistence among all peoples and states in the region “is the indispensable and prior condition” for an “authentic and enduring progress.”
“This requires increasing mutual esteem and consideration, which can never lay aside respect for the sovereign rights of every country within the framework of international law,” Francis said.
After landing in Georgia Sept. 30, the Pope insisted that peaceful coexistence among all peoples and states in the region “is the indispensable and prior condition” for an “authentic and enduring progress.”
“This requires increasing mutual esteem and consideration, which can never lay aside respect for the sovereign rights of every country within the framework of international law,” Francis said.
Thursday, September 29, 2016
C.S. Lewis Doodle: The Screwtape Letters #6 (From One Demon to Another)
New Advent: C.S. Lewis Doodle: The Screwtape Letters #6 (From One Demon to Another): In this episode, the demon Screwtape gives advice to his junior tempter on the art of re-directing his patient’s thoughts from the present fear to hypothetical future fates, from God to Self, and from being self-aware to being consumed with the danger itself. Screwtape also teaches his protégé how to direct his patient's kindnesses away from his immediate neighbours to people he has never met, while directing his hatred to those around him, and pushing virtues into the realm of his fantasy only.
Images of Christian refugees suffering hardship in northern Iraq
Images of Christian Refugees Suffering Hardship in Northern Iraq |Blogs | NCRegister.comPENTIN: Persecuted Christians in northern Iraq continue to suffer great uncertainty and live in poor living conditions after the Islamist group ISIS invaded their towns and villages in 2014.
Aware of their brutality, around 100,000 fled their homes in the middle of the night in the summer of that year, and many did so with little more than the clothes they were wearing. Most of them ended up in camps for internally displaced people in the region.
Last week, I joined an Aid to the Church in Need delegation to a number of the camps around Erbil, the capital of Kurdistan, and others close to Duhok, about 50 miles north of ISIS-occupied Mosul. See my write up on what we saw here.
Aware of their brutality, around 100,000 fled their homes in the middle of the night in the summer of that year, and many did so with little more than the clothes they were wearing. Most of them ended up in camps for internally displaced people in the region.
Last week, I joined an Aid to the Church in Need delegation to a number of the camps around Erbil, the capital of Kurdistan, and others close to Duhok, about 50 miles north of ISIS-occupied Mosul. See my write up on what we saw here.
Communion on the tongue or in the hand? Here are 3 things to consider...
Spiritualdirection.com | Catholic Spiritual Direction | Why Communion on the Tongue? Part II of II SpiritualDirection.com / Catholic Spiritual DirectionCARSTENS: An ancient maxim of the Church teaches that “the law of prayer is the law of belief” (lex orandi, lex credendi). Belief and prayer—and prayer and belief—are integrally connected to one another. We pray, for example, in the name of the Father and of Son and of the Holy Spirit because we believe that God is one substance in three persons. Similarly, our belief that Jesus is truly and substantially present in the Blessed Sacrament is deepened by humble prayer on our knees during periods of adoration...
The story of one soul's escape from Satanism to Catholicism
One Soul’s Escape From Satanism to CatholicismTURLEY: In 2011, at an Easter Vigil in a simple parish church in New York State, a number of souls were received into the Catholic Church. As it does every year, the ceremony moved from the darkness surrounding the Paschal Fire through the many readings from the Old and New Testament to the proclamation of the triumph of the Resurrection – reminding all present that the long reign of Sin and Death has finally ended. On that night, those adults becoming Catholics made their baptismal promises. They accepted the Truths of the Faith. They rejected Satan and all his works and all his empty promises.
If our children ask for a loving home, do we give them mammon instead?
If Our Children Ask For a Loving Home, Do We Give Them Mammon Instead? |Blogs | NCRegister.comHAMILTON: What with the conference on the Theology of the Body Congress, the big march in defense of marriage in Mexico, and Family Day in Rome, I think it’s safe to say that the Year of Mercy includes an emphasis on healing the family.
We have, as individuals and as a people, participated in the destruction of the family, and by doing that, we have participated in a successful attack on our children and on the foundation of civilization. Notice that I did not say that “they” have done this. I’m not pointing fingers at gay marriage activists, polygamists, politicians or feminists.
I’m saying that “we,” as in you and me, have each played a part in the destruction of the family. There are exceptions to this blanket assertion. I know some of them. I know men and women, husbands and wives, who build their lives in one another and continue to love each other through the vicissitudes of life; who focus on raising children who are grounded in a faith in Christ and a stable, loving home.
We have, as individuals and as a people, participated in the destruction of the family, and by doing that, we have participated in a successful attack on our children and on the foundation of civilization. Notice that I did not say that “they” have done this. I’m not pointing fingers at gay marriage activists, polygamists, politicians or feminists.
I’m saying that “we,” as in you and me, have each played a part in the destruction of the family. There are exceptions to this blanket assertion. I know some of them. I know men and women, husbands and wives, who build their lives in one another and continue to love each other through the vicissitudes of life; who focus on raising children who are grounded in a faith in Christ and a stable, loving home.
Report from Erbil, Iraq: Christian refugees’ faith endures amid a sea of troubles
Report From Erbil: Christian Refugees’ Faith Endures, Amidst a Sea of Troubles | Daily News | NCRegister.comPENTIN: The look in Haney’s eyes reflect both the horror she had experienced and the uncertain future that she faces.
Still visibly frightened and bewildered, the 86-year-old Syriac Catholic recalled how members of the Islamist terrorist organization (ISIS) raided her house at gunpoint near Mosul, Iraq, in the middle of the night in August 2014 and then proceeded to kidnap both Haney and her son, who looks after her.
A day or so later, they released them, letting them fend for themselves with a little money and almost no belongings. They immediately fled, taking taxis and hitching rides, reaching the Kurdish-controlled town of Duhok, 50 miles north of Mosul, and then ending up at the large Dawudiya Refugee Camp, set in a remote mountainous region another 35 miles away.
Still visibly frightened and bewildered, the 86-year-old Syriac Catholic recalled how members of the Islamist terrorist organization (ISIS) raided her house at gunpoint near Mosul, Iraq, in the middle of the night in August 2014 and then proceeded to kidnap both Haney and her son, who looks after her.
A day or so later, they released them, letting them fend for themselves with a little money and almost no belongings. They immediately fled, taking taxis and hitching rides, reaching the Kurdish-controlled town of Duhok, 50 miles north of Mosul, and then ending up at the large Dawudiya Refugee Camp, set in a remote mountainous region another 35 miles away.
Reykjavik briefly swaps its city lights for the Northern Lights
Reykjavik Briefly Swaps Its City Lights for Northern Ones - The New York Times: Lights off. Lights on.
Reykjavik went dark Wednesday night, after the City Council switched off street lamps and encouraged residents to turn off their lights.
The goal: To get light pollution to a minimum in order to provide the best possible viewing conditions for a particularly intense display of the aurora borealis, more commonly known as the northern lights.
Reykjavik went dark Wednesday night, after the City Council switched off street lamps and encouraged residents to turn off their lights.
The goal: To get light pollution to a minimum in order to provide the best possible viewing conditions for a particularly intense display of the aurora borealis, more commonly known as the northern lights.
St. Raphael the Archangel, pray for me
St. Raphael, Patron of Healing, Pray for Me – Seasons of GraceSCHIFFER: These archangels, all of whom play cameo roles in the Scriptures, have been venerated since the early days of the Church–but it’s Raphael I want to talk about today. Last week, I underwent my first cataract surgery; the second is scheduled for next week. Life with 20/15 vision (and no glasses!) has been awesome so far–but more on that in another post. Raphael really rocks as the saint who helped cure Tobit’s blindness, so he seems an especially fitting patron for me.
“An iron fist in a velvet glove”: A look at Azerbaijan ahead of the Pope’s visit
The Azerbaijan of the Pope’s Visit. An Iron Fist in a Velvet GloveMAGISTER: In departing for Georgia and Azerbaijan, Pope Francis is preparing to visit, in the latter country, a tiny Catholic population of a few hundred persons, a nonentity compared to an overwhelming Muslim presence, most of it Shiite.
But to judge by the program of the visit, packed with meetings with non-Christian civil and religious authorities, the relations between this Islamic country and the Catholic Church appear to be excellent.
And so they have seemed for a number of years, in practice since the Aliyev dynasty assumed total control of the country after it broke away from the Soviet Union in 1991.
Heydar Aliyev, the founding father, was in the Moscow of the Brezhnev and Andropov years the first Muslim to become part of the Politburo. With Gorbachev he fell into disgrace, accused of corruption. But back in his home country he turned himself into a champion of independence and ultimately won the presidency of the new state.
But to judge by the program of the visit, packed with meetings with non-Christian civil and religious authorities, the relations between this Islamic country and the Catholic Church appear to be excellent.
And so they have seemed for a number of years, in practice since the Aliyev dynasty assumed total control of the country after it broke away from the Soviet Union in 1991.
Heydar Aliyev, the founding father, was in the Moscow of the Brezhnev and Andropov years the first Muslim to become part of the Politburo. With Gorbachev he fell into disgrace, accused of corruption. But back in his home country he turned himself into a champion of independence and ultimately won the presidency of the new state.
How the smallpox-scarred George Washington used vaccines to help win the Revolutionary War
How George Washington Used Vaccines to Help Win the Revolutionary War | RealClearScience: The United States' victory over the British Empire in the Revolutionary War is our country's quintessential tale of David overcoming Goliath. Birthed as an underdog, we embrace that mindset still.
Winning independence was not an easy task. It was a success that hinged on pivotal moments. The Continental Army's narrow escape across the Delaware River, the British surrender at Saratoga, and foreign intervention from Spain and France are a few of those moments. But lesser known is George Washington's bold decision to vaccinate the entire Continental Army against smallpox. It was the first mass inoculation in military history, and was vital to ensuring an American victory in the War of Independence.
Winning independence was not an easy task. It was a success that hinged on pivotal moments. The Continental Army's narrow escape across the Delaware River, the British surrender at Saratoga, and foreign intervention from Spain and France are a few of those moments. But lesser known is George Washington's bold decision to vaccinate the entire Continental Army against smallpox. It was the first mass inoculation in military history, and was vital to ensuring an American victory in the War of Independence.
Angels are invisible to humans not because they're less real, but more real
Are Angels Real?LONGENECKER: Today’s feast day reminds me of that section in C.S. Lewis’ science fiction books where his hero Ransom discusses the reality of the angel-like beings the Eldils. It’s a cool argument.
He suggests that the Eldils (angels) are invisible to humans not because they are less real, but more real.
What does that mean?
To understand we have to look again at the way we normally perceive the world. We see the physical world as solid and “real”. Therefore we regard spiritual beings as ephemeral or insubstantial. We imagine that they are all wispy like clouds or ghosts.
However, for angels it is the other way around. Because they are eternal and do not have physical bodies, it is our physical world which is ‘unreal’ or insubsantial to them.
He suggests that the Eldils (angels) are invisible to humans not because they are less real, but more real.
What does that mean?
To understand we have to look again at the way we normally perceive the world. We see the physical world as solid and “real”. Therefore we regard spiritual beings as ephemeral or insubstantial. We imagine that they are all wispy like clouds or ghosts.
However, for angels it is the other way around. Because they are eternal and do not have physical bodies, it is our physical world which is ‘unreal’ or insubsantial to them.
Debunking the myth of the ‘real’ Robinson Crusoe
Debunking the Myth of the ‘Real’ Robinson Crusoe: For centuries, the English-speaking world has been enchanted by stories of people trapped on islands. Think Lord of the Flies, Cast Away, or even Gilligan’s Island.
Real-life buccaneer survival narratives were a major literary genre when Daniel Defoe published his hit novel Robinson Crusoe in 1719. Defoe was influenced by these narratives, and his resulting novel about a shipwrecked Englishman both mirrored and transformed the genre. In its first year, the novel went through several printings to meet public demand.
After Defoe’s death in 1731, some readers claimed the novel was inspired by Alexander Selkirk, a Scottish buccaneer who’d spent four and a half years on an island by himself. Today, many writers claim a connection between Selkirk and Crusoe.
Real-life buccaneer survival narratives were a major literary genre when Daniel Defoe published his hit novel Robinson Crusoe in 1719. Defoe was influenced by these narratives, and his resulting novel about a shipwrecked Englishman both mirrored and transformed the genre. In its first year, the novel went through several printings to meet public demand.
After Defoe’s death in 1731, some readers claimed the novel was inspired by Alexander Selkirk, a Scottish buccaneer who’d spent four and a half years on an island by himself. Today, many writers claim a connection between Selkirk and Crusoe.
“We should be aware of their invisible presence”: Feast of the archangels Michael, Gabriel and Raphael
Invoke the archangels, Pope tells pilgrims : News Headlines | Catholic Culture: At the conclusion of his September 28 general audience, Pope Francis called upon pilgrims gathered in St. Peter’s Square to seek the intercession of the archangels.
“In tomorrow’s liturgy we celebrate the feast of the archangels Michael, Gabriel and Raphael,” he said. “They are ministering spirits sent out to serve for the sake of those who are to inherit salvation.”
“We should be aware of their invisible presence,” he added. “Let us invoke them in prayer so that in every moment they remind us of the presence of God, supporting us in the struggle against evil and leading us safely on the roads of our life.”
“In tomorrow’s liturgy we celebrate the feast of the archangels Michael, Gabriel and Raphael,” he said. “They are ministering spirits sent out to serve for the sake of those who are to inherit salvation.”
“We should be aware of their invisible presence,” he added. “Let us invoke them in prayer so that in every moment they remind us of the presence of God, supporting us in the struggle against evil and leading us safely on the roads of our life.”
WSJ writer Sohrab Ahmari’s winding journey from Tehran to the Catholic Church
My journey from Tehran to Rome – CatholicHerald.co.uk: On July 26, I announced my decision to join the Catholic Church. Hours earlier, a pair of jihadists had attacked a church in France and murdered a priest, Fr Jacques Hamel, while he was celebrating Mass.
Two months before that, I had begun studying one-on-one with a priest in London, reading Catholic books and immersing myself in the catechumen’s life. But I had no intention of going public with my conversion, not until after being received into the Church.
When news of the killing first broke, I knew next to nothing about Fr Hamel. Photos online showed an octogenarian priest with wispy white hair and a look of quiet, ordinary holiness.
Two months before that, I had begun studying one-on-one with a priest in London, reading Catholic books and immersing myself in the catechumen’s life. But I had no intention of going public with my conversion, not until after being received into the Church.
When news of the killing first broke, I knew next to nothing about Fr Hamel. Photos online showed an octogenarian priest with wispy white hair and a look of quiet, ordinary holiness.
Wednesday, September 28, 2016
How to answer the “Jesus got them to share the loaves and fishes” malarkey
How to Answer the “Jesus Got Them to Share the Loaves” Malarkey |Blogs | NCRegister.comMARTIGNONI: If the “miracle” was that Jesus got everyone to “share” their hidden food that they had been hoarding, then why would they want to make him king because of that? I can just imagine one of the people present yelling, “Hey, he got us to share our food, let’s make him king!” And then all the other people start shouting, “Yeah! He got us to share, let’s make him king!” Really?
Also, if they were hoarding this food, why does it say that they filled twelve baskets with fragments from the “five barley loaves?” And please ask your teacher to give one historical document as evidence to support his interpretation of events — just one. We have an historical document: the Bible. It says what it says. It would make sense that one would need to rely on some other historical document, which gives a different account of events, in order to reach the conclusion that it didn’t happen the way the Bible relates it.
Also, if they were hoarding this food, why does it say that they filled twelve baskets with fragments from the “five barley loaves?” And please ask your teacher to give one historical document as evidence to support his interpretation of events — just one. We have an historical document: the Bible. It says what it says. It would make sense that one would need to rely on some other historical document, which gives a different account of events, in order to reach the conclusion that it didn’t happen the way the Bible relates it.
St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle...
St. Michael the Archangel, Defend Us in Battle |Blogs | NCRegister.comKOSLOSKI: The Church affirms that Satan was once a good angel and that he (and many other angels) freely chose to reject God. Their choice was final and definite. Satan has no chance of repentance. This is because angels were given an extraordinary intellect, not clouded in any way. So Lucifer knew exactly what he was doing when he chose to rebel against God and he knew all the implications of it.
This rebellion was accomplished at the beginning of time, shortly after the creation of the angels, before the creation of men. This can be deduced simply by the fact that Satan was already present at the Garden of Eden.
This rebellion was accomplished at the beginning of time, shortly after the creation of the angels, before the creation of men. This can be deduced simply by the fact that Satan was already present at the Garden of Eden.
One of the greatest magicians of the 20th century was a Marianist brother
One of the Greatest Magicians of the 20th Century Was a Marianist Brother |Blogs | NCRegister.comSTAGNARO: Of all the performing arts, very few people actively dislike stage magic.
It's the principle reason I remain gainfully employed.
That, and my incredible humility.
You'll regularly find people who are bored with opera and flummoxed by modern dance, but what kind of misanthrope doesn't like a good card trick? Who doesn't want to see a bunny pulled out of a hat? Who doesn't gape at magicians, or magiciennes, who flagrantly disregard the very laws of physics and stunningly do the impossible?
But what about if you're already a magician, or magicienne, and are already privy to all of the arcane secrets of legerdemain? How can magic be entertaining? There are only so many ways to produce a bunny out of a hat.
It's the principle reason I remain gainfully employed.
That, and my incredible humility.
You'll regularly find people who are bored with opera and flummoxed by modern dance, but what kind of misanthrope doesn't like a good card trick? Who doesn't want to see a bunny pulled out of a hat? Who doesn't gape at magicians, or magiciennes, who flagrantly disregard the very laws of physics and stunningly do the impossible?
But what about if you're already a magician, or magicienne, and are already privy to all of the arcane secrets of legerdemain? How can magic be entertaining? There are only so many ways to produce a bunny out of a hat.
Why are José Fernández's friends hitting HRs like never before? Maybe God loves baseball...
Does God Actually Show Himself Through Home Runs? - Mountain CatholicSEWELL: Even the casual baseball fan has felt the deep sadness surrounding the recent death of Jose Fernandez, a 24-year-old superstar pitcher for the Miami Marlins. Universally recognized for a broad grin, charismatic personality, and devotion to those around him, Fernandez seemed to have exuded zeal, humility, and hopefulness almost constantly.
“God made Orion and the Pleiades”: The marveling of Job as he looked to the night sky
Starstruck: The Marveling of Job as He Looked to the Night Sky - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: Due to the light pollution common in our cities today, we urbanites really don’t have any idea what we’re missing when it comes to the night sky. Up until about a hundred years ago, the night sky was illuminated by billions of points of light; it’s a breathtaking display many moderns have never experienced.
My first and only real glimpse of the magnificent Milky Way was nearly twenty years ago. I was visiting a priest friend in rural North Dakota. It was mid January, the very heart of winter. The sky was cloudless, the temperature was just below zero, and the humidity was very low (thus, no haze). We decided to take an evening walk. Only an occasional street lamp lit the ground. As we got farther away from the town, about half a mile, I looked up and could scarcely believe my eyes.
My first and only real glimpse of the magnificent Milky Way was nearly twenty years ago. I was visiting a priest friend in rural North Dakota. It was mid January, the very heart of winter. The sky was cloudless, the temperature was just below zero, and the humidity was very low (thus, no haze). We decided to take an evening walk. Only an occasional street lamp lit the ground. As we got farther away from the town, about half a mile, I looked up and could scarcely believe my eyes.
A man's guide to wristwatches: Their history and why you should wear one
A Man's Guide to Wristwatches: Its History and Why to Wear One | The Art of Manliness: No element of men’s style combines fashion and function quite like the wristwatch. Nor does any other male accessory inspire such devotion and interest.
Nevertheless, in recent times there have been those who believed the watch had finally met its demise in the smartphone, and would fade away with other sartorial anachronisms like monocles and sock garters.
And yet the popularity of the wristwatch persists. To understand why, we need to understand the history of this timepiece, how its past continues to inform its present, and why a man might consider wearing a watch in the 21st century.
Nevertheless, in recent times there have been those who believed the watch had finally met its demise in the smartphone, and would fade away with other sartorial anachronisms like monocles and sock garters.
And yet the popularity of the wristwatch persists. To understand why, we need to understand the history of this timepiece, how its past continues to inform its present, and why a man might consider wearing a watch in the 21st century.
4 guidelines for voting, drawn from the wisdom of the Church
Voting and living as good citizensCONLEY: This November, American Catholics have the opportunity to shape the direction of our nation, our states, and our local communities in the voting booth. Good citizenship is a moral obligation for all Catholics, and voting is an important part of that obligation. In the United States, the responsibility for our government’s direction lies with us, as citizens, and we can’t take that responsibility lightly. We cannot, because of apathy, or discouragement, or perfectionism, abandon our obligation to vote.
In the past few months, many Catholics have asked me how to make good choices in the voting booth. Many Catholics have especially expressed to me being uncertain about how to make choices when faced with two presidential candidates they find intolerable or unacceptable. While a bishop should never tell Catholics who they should vote for, I would like to offer four points of guidance, drawn from wisdom of the Church, as we discern our choices as voters.
In the past few months, many Catholics have asked me how to make good choices in the voting booth. Many Catholics have especially expressed to me being uncertain about how to make choices when faced with two presidential candidates they find intolerable or unacceptable. While a bishop should never tell Catholics who they should vote for, I would like to offer four points of guidance, drawn from wisdom of the Church, as we discern our choices as voters.
Why be religious? Isn't being spiritual enough?
Why Be Religious? Isn't Being Spiritual Enough? | Catholic AnswersAKIN: When people say they are spiritual rather than religious, they frequently mean that, although they don’t practice a specific religion, they recognize there is more to the world than matter; that it has a spiritual dimension.
This is good! But it doesn’t go very far. Wouldn’t it be nice to know more about the world’s spiritual dimension? In every field, having more knowledge is better, and it makes sense to ask if we can learn more about the world’s spiritual dimension.
From a Christian perspective, we can learn more. God loves us and wants us to know him, not just have feelings or guesses. When he created the universe, God left evidence that allowisus to learn certain things about him
This is good! But it doesn’t go very far. Wouldn’t it be nice to know more about the world’s spiritual dimension? In every field, having more knowledge is better, and it makes sense to ask if we can learn more about the world’s spiritual dimension.
From a Christian perspective, we can learn more. God loves us and wants us to know him, not just have feelings or guesses. When he created the universe, God left evidence that allowisus to learn certain things about him
Is the Crucifix is a symbol of hatred?
Is the Crucifix is a Symbol of Hate?LONGENECKER: In today’s news a group concerned with hate crime on campus reports that one of the complaints they had was from someone who objected to a crucifix because it was “a symbol of oppression and hate of the LBGT community”
This article reports how the University of Wisconsin/La Crosse have a “bias/hate” reporting system through which students may anonymously report incidents they find offensive. These have ranged from such serious offenses as a professor wearing a sombrero and affecting a Mexican accent to a student writing a blog post about life as a white student on campus. Another student complained about a faculty member “laughing inappropriately” during a college meeting.
This article reports how the University of Wisconsin/La Crosse have a “bias/hate” reporting system through which students may anonymously report incidents they find offensive. These have ranged from such serious offenses as a professor wearing a sombrero and affecting a Mexican accent to a student writing a blog post about life as a white student on campus. Another student complained about a faculty member “laughing inappropriately” during a college meeting.
Internet search engines block ads for sex-selection abortions in India
Internet search engines block ads for sex-selection abortions in India : News Headlines | Catholic Culture: Under heavy pressure from the government of India, the operators of world's leading internet search engines have agreed to block advertisements for sex-selection abortion.
Google, Yahoo, and Microsoft reached and agreement to stop running advertisements in India for gender-testing of unborn children, and to block terms that would lead to sites offering such testing. Google also agreed to show a warning message to Indian users who searched for such site, reminding them that sex-selection abortion is illegal in India.
Google, Yahoo, and Microsoft reached and agreement to stop running advertisements in India for gender-testing of unborn children, and to block terms that would lead to sites offering such testing. Google also agreed to show a warning message to Indian users who searched for such site, reminding them that sex-selection abortion is illegal in India.
This Ohio mystic mentored Mother Angelica. Was she a saint?
This Ohio mystic mentored Mother Angelica. Was she a saint? :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): Rhoda Wise, the mystic visionary and reputed stigmatic and miracle worker who played a key role in the life of Mother Angelica, is now the focus of a diocesan inquiry as one of the first steps towards possible canonization.
“She was instrumental in the healing of Mother Angelica when she was a teenager,” Karen Sigler, director of the Rhoda Wise Shrine, told CNA Sept. 27. “Mother Angelica wasn’t the only one. There are all kind of testimonies of healings people received after contact with Rhoda in her home.”
“And it is still happening today,” Sigler said, citing the testimonies recounted on the website of the Canton, Ohio shrine.
“She was instrumental in the healing of Mother Angelica when she was a teenager,” Karen Sigler, director of the Rhoda Wise Shrine, told CNA Sept. 27. “Mother Angelica wasn’t the only one. There are all kind of testimonies of healings people received after contact with Rhoda in her home.”
“And it is still happening today,” Sigler said, citing the testimonies recounted on the website of the Canton, Ohio shrine.
How to avoid poisoning your soul on social media
Beware the (Online) Culture of Wrath | Catholic World Report - Global Church news and viewsGREYDANUS: Not long ago Time magazine ran a cover story about Internet trolling with the alarming but not inaccurate cover blurb “We’re losing the Internet to the culture of hate.”
Trolling and other antisocial behaviors are widespread online. They can even be found in devout Catholic circles, though outright trollery and the “culture of hate” are perhaps more easily recognized and avoided than a more subtle but related phenomenon: what might be called a culture of wrath, of rage.
Wrath is one of the seven capital sins. Not all anger amounts to the sin of wrath; there is such a thing as righteous anger, as Jesus’ own example demonstrates.
For those of us who are not Jesus, though, righteous anger easily slides into the unrighteous kind — and the more we are provoked to anger and outrage, the likelier it is that we will do so.
Trolling and other antisocial behaviors are widespread online. They can even be found in devout Catholic circles, though outright trollery and the “culture of hate” are perhaps more easily recognized and avoided than a more subtle but related phenomenon: what might be called a culture of wrath, of rage.
Wrath is one of the seven capital sins. Not all anger amounts to the sin of wrath; there is such a thing as righteous anger, as Jesus’ own example demonstrates.
For those of us who are not Jesus, though, righteous anger easily slides into the unrighteous kind — and the more we are provoked to anger and outrage, the likelier it is that we will do so.
Pope's Wednesday Audience: The Good Thief reveals “the starting point of repentance — fear of the Lord”
God's mercy overcomes human desperation, Pope Francis says :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): On Wednesday Pope Francis said that Jesus’ salvific mission reaches its culmination on the Cross in his conversation with the two thieves crucified with him, showing that God’s mercy goes beyond the desperation of human suffering, responding to it with mercy and forgiveness.
When the bad thief cries out to Jesus on the Cross, telling him “Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us,” this act “bears witness to the anguish of man in front of the mystery of death and the tragic awareness that only God can be the liberating answer,” the Pope said Sept. 28.
As he dies on the Cross alongside two criminals, Jesus confirms God’s salvation “can reach any man in any condition, even the most negative and painful.”
When the bad thief cries out to Jesus on the Cross, telling him “Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us,” this act “bears witness to the anguish of man in front of the mystery of death and the tragic awareness that only God can be the liberating answer,” the Pope said Sept. 28.
As he dies on the Cross alongside two criminals, Jesus confirms God’s salvation “can reach any man in any condition, even the most negative and painful.”
Tuesday, September 27, 2016
Vote as a Catholic with a Catholic moral vision
Vote as a Catholic with a Catholic Moral Vision |Blogs | NCRegister.comPOPE: Satan is no idiot. He has successfully convinced most Catholics that moral issues are political issues. And in so doing he has successfully shut down a huge amount of moral exhortation and reflection. This is especially true in a political season such as this, when the distinctions between the candidates on critical moral issues could not be clearer or sharper.
Among the moral issues that have been most politicized are non-negotiable issues for any Catholic: abortion, euthanasia, embryonic stem cell research, and same sex “marriage.” These are non-negotiable issues because there is no room for nuance or degree of support. You are either for them or against them. There is no middle ground. They are outright forbidden by Church teaching and no Catholic may agree with or support abortion, euthanasia, embryonic stem cell research or same-sex “marriage” in any degree whatsoever. This goes for every Catholic from the highest political officials to the lowliest and most unknown Catholic in the pew. This precedes politics, party loyalties, political leanings or any such thing.
Among the moral issues that have been most politicized are non-negotiable issues for any Catholic: abortion, euthanasia, embryonic stem cell research, and same sex “marriage.” These are non-negotiable issues because there is no room for nuance or degree of support. You are either for them or against them. There is no middle ground. They are outright forbidden by Church teaching and no Catholic may agree with or support abortion, euthanasia, embryonic stem cell research or same-sex “marriage” in any degree whatsoever. This goes for every Catholic from the highest political officials to the lowliest and most unknown Catholic in the pew. This precedes politics, party loyalties, political leanings or any such thing.
Aspen, Colorado conference to equip parents to pass faith to their children
Aspen conference to equip parents to pass faith to their children - Denver CatholicROXANNEKING: Starting next year, children in the Denver Archdiocese will get confirmed in third grade to fill them with the needed graces to face the ever-increasing difficulties of living a Christian life. The change also restores parents to their rightful duty as primary faith educators of their children.
If you’re a parent, are you ready for that?
If not, Aspen Catholic, the outreach arm of St. Mary Church in Aspen, is offering a dynamic three-day conference, “Reaching Our Kids: Faith and the Modern Family,” to deepen your own faith and equip you with practical ways to instill faith in your children.
If you’re a parent, are you ready for that?
If not, Aspen Catholic, the outreach arm of St. Mary Church in Aspen, is offering a dynamic three-day conference, “Reaching Our Kids: Faith and the Modern Family,” to deepen your own faith and equip you with practical ways to instill faith in your children.
All hail the pizza saver, the tiny piece of plastic protecting your pie
All Hail the Pizza Saver, the Tiny Piece of Plastic Protecting Your Pie - Eater: Pizza’s most essential topping is a piece of plastic. Floating above the greasy circle of molten cheese, a small white sphere often stands on three narrow stilts. Placed directly into the pizza while hot, the stilted objects can get covered with red sauce, some cheese, and a lot of grease. My sister and I used to take these small white things and rinse them in the sink. They were just small enough to work as dining tables for Polly Pockets, or stepping stools for Barbie. They were fairly stable, and over time the box that held our toys accumulated them.
This new film on James Foley isn't without controversy
New film about James Foley isn’t without controversy | Catholic World Report - Global Church news and viewsTURLEY: In the burning desert heat, there stands a man dressed all in black. His face is hidden. In his hand, he holds a blade. Kneeling beside him, dressed in florescent orange and with arms tied behind his back, is Jim Foley, American photojournalist and ISIS hostage. This is, for many, the first image they saw of the captured American. It was also to be the last. Minutes later Foley was dead, sickeningly and publicly executed by his captors.
This murder, in particular, revolted, and still revolts, any civilized human being. To take a man life’s for little more than propaganda is bad enough; to do so for maximum publicity in front of cameras is an abomination. The public nature of the killing did indeed have an effect; it woke people up to the ghoulish barbarism of ISIS.
This murder, in particular, revolted, and still revolts, any civilized human being. To take a man life’s for little more than propaganda is bad enough; to do so for maximum publicity in front of cameras is an abomination. The public nature of the killing did indeed have an effect; it woke people up to the ghoulish barbarism of ISIS.
Are Rom Coms porn for women?
Are Rom Coms porn for women? – Aleteia.org – Worldwide Catholic Network Sharing Faith Resources for those seeking Truth – Aleteia.orgFISHER: It’s a good question, one that turns up every eighteen months or so. Here’s the latest iteration, from Relevant Magazine: Rom-Coms are perverting the way we think about love.
The author, Melissa Collier Gepford, makes it clear that she thinks the habit of watching silly, trivial romantic comedies is not as bad as the habit of watching porn. But she teases out some excellent points about why it’s still bad for us, bad for our relationships, and bad for our understanding of love in general to spend too much time watching rom coms. She points out that...
The author, Melissa Collier Gepford, makes it clear that she thinks the habit of watching silly, trivial romantic comedies is not as bad as the habit of watching porn. But she teases out some excellent points about why it’s still bad for us, bad for our relationships, and bad for our understanding of love in general to spend too much time watching rom coms. She points out that...
7 ways to keep your kids close to Jesus Christ
7 Ways to Keep Your Kids “Hooked on Jesus” |Blogs | NCRegister.comEVINGER: Here and there and everywhere nowadays, it seems like our kids are getting tempted to get hooked on something. This and that idol of a person, this institution or “promising” new government mandate, and the like are calling our children's names. As parents, it is painful to listen to the grind of it all, and even more painful to see what happens to our kids when they, in their naïve vulnerability, do listen, and do get hooked on, well, things that just aren't from Jesus.
An analysis of Monday night's Trump-Clinton presidential debate
Trump-Clinton Presidential Debates: Round One | Daily News | NCRegister.comBUNSON: A record-setting number of viewers tuned in Monday to watch the first presidential debate (the first of three) and saw two candidates come to grips not just with each other but with the perceptions that have formed about them in the public eye.
What they also saw was a debate that was thin on civility and marked by a nasty tone that was enough to make any viewer uncomfortable about how unpleasant the next debates might become.
Trump had a win in the debate at the very least from the standpoint of being on the stage. For several months, the Clinton campaign has painted him as a delusional and dangerous figure too unstable to serve as commander-in-chief. His very presence on the same stage as Hillary Clinton elevated his credibility with many voters.
What they also saw was a debate that was thin on civility and marked by a nasty tone that was enough to make any viewer uncomfortable about how unpleasant the next debates might become.
Trump had a win in the debate at the very least from the standpoint of being on the stage. For several months, the Clinton campaign has painted him as a delusional and dangerous figure too unstable to serve as commander-in-chief. His very presence on the same stage as Hillary Clinton elevated his credibility with many voters.
How to talk to your friends about the problem of evil...
Job and Suffering - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: We are beginning to read from the Book of Job in daily Mass. One of its core issues is the problem of suffering and why God allows it. If God is omnipotent and omniscient then how can He tolerate evil, injustice, and suffering of the innocent? Where is God when a woman is raped, when genocide is committed, or when evil men hatch their plots? Why did God even conceive the evil ones and let them be born?
The problem of evil cannot be answered simply; it is a mystery. Its purpose and why God permits it are caught up in our limited vision and understanding. Scripture says that “all things work together for the good of those who love and trust the Lord and are called according to his purposes” (Rom 8:28). But how this is often difficult for us to see. Anyone who has ever suffered a tragic and senseless loss or has observed the disproportionate suffering that some must endure cannot help but ask why. And the answers aren’t all that satisfying to many.
The problem of evil cannot be answered simply; it is a mystery. Its purpose and why God permits it are caught up in our limited vision and understanding. Scripture says that “all things work together for the good of those who love and trust the Lord and are called according to his purposes” (Rom 8:28). But how this is often difficult for us to see. Anyone who has ever suffered a tragic and senseless loss or has observed the disproportionate suffering that some must endure cannot help but ask why. And the answers aren’t all that satisfying to many.
4 things every candidate for Confirmation needs to hear
4 Things Every Candidate for Confirmation Needs to Hear from Their Pastor | ChurchPOP: Every year, thousands of young Catholics receive the powerful Sacrament of Confirmation.
Here’s what one priest, Fr. Bill Peckman (pastor of the Missouri parish that suffered a vandal attack earlier this year), told his parish’s confirmandi recently, according to his Facebook page: You're not graduating. It's not about taking ownership of your faith. It's about grace. And truth is objective.
Here’s what one priest, Fr. Bill Peckman (pastor of the Missouri parish that suffered a vandal attack earlier this year), told his parish’s confirmandi recently, according to his Facebook page: You're not graduating. It's not about taking ownership of your faith. It's about grace. And truth is objective.
“Cockroaches can survive a nuclear blast” and other urban legends
BBC - Earth - Cockroaches are not radiation-proof and most are not pests: The sight of a cockroach scuttling across the kitchen floor is distinctly unsavoury. This emotional truth has led most of us to believe that all cockroaches must be similarly repugnant.
But not George Beccaloni, curator of orthopteroid insects at the Natural History Museum in London, UK. He is on the side of the cockroaches. "People have a very biased view of the group," he says.
But not George Beccaloni, curator of orthopteroid insects at the Natural History Museum in London, UK. He is on the side of the cockroaches. "People have a very biased view of the group," he says.
Poland poised to approve new law banning all abortions and protecting unborn children
Poland Poised to Approve New Law Banning All Abortions and Protecting Unborn Children | LifeNews.com: Polish legislators debated a citizen-led bill this week that would ban almost all abortions and protect unborn babies’ right to life. And in an initial vote on the measure has been approved.
The strong Catholic country already prohibits most abortions. Unlike most of Europe, abortions are legal in Poland in only cases of rape and incest, the life or health of the mother or severe fetal deformities – though “severe” is widely defined and unborn babies with Down syndrome and other disabilities have been legally aborted.
The strong Catholic country already prohibits most abortions. Unlike most of Europe, abortions are legal in Poland in only cases of rape and incest, the life or health of the mother or severe fetal deformities – though “severe” is widely defined and unborn babies with Down syndrome and other disabilities have been legally aborted.
“Evil is a reality”: Two U.S. priests explain increase in diabolical activity, requests for exorcism
Leading US exorcists explain huge increase in demand for the Rite – and priests to carry them out: In the US, over the past 10 years, the number of official priest exorcists has more than quadrupled from 12 to 50.
But for two of America’s most active exorcists – Father Gary Thomas, whose training in Rome was chronicled in Matt Baglio's book The Rite: The Making of a Modern Exorcist, and Father Vincent Lampert, whose work was depicted on Paranormal Witness – it is an ongoing struggle to keep up with the demand.
But for two of America’s most active exorcists – Father Gary Thomas, whose training in Rome was chronicled in Matt Baglio's book The Rite: The Making of a Modern Exorcist, and Father Vincent Lampert, whose work was depicted on Paranormal Witness – it is an ongoing struggle to keep up with the demand.
Joy is the grown-up version of fun
The Joy of Vocation | Fathers for GoodGRESS: Shortly after I got married, a good priest gave me some sage advice: look at all your daily frustrations as a source of holiness. Later that day, my husband did something that irritated me, so I said to him through clenched teeth: “You are making me so holy right now.” Of course, this made us both laugh.
When my husband and I were married, there was the excitement of new love and the joy of finally fulfilling our vocation. We had been warned, however, that this bloom on the rose couldn’t last and things would get tough. But what we didn’t hear was that there was a secret gem buried in those difficulties, if only we could find it.
When my husband and I were married, there was the excitement of new love and the joy of finally fulfilling our vocation. We had been warned, however, that this bloom on the rose couldn’t last and things would get tough. But what we didn’t hear was that there was a secret gem buried in those difficulties, if only we could find it.
From a Church of “in-crowds” and comfort, deliver me, Lord
From a Church of “in-crowds” and comfort, deliver me, Lord - Top Stories - Aleteia.org – Worldwide Catholic Network Sharing Faith Resources for those seeking Truth – Aleteia.orgNOBLE: I used to be a little girl who loved Anne of Green Gables, violin concertos, and writing stories about fairies. Then I became an atheist punk rocker and later a vegan animal-rights activist. After college I was an inner-city school teacher, then a humble farm worker. Then, miraculously, a believer in God, a Catholic, a believer in Jesus, and after that — most shockingly to me, and everyone I knew — a nun.
Now, when I walk down the street as a religious sister, some people see the institutional Church, others see someone on the fringe of society, others see an eccentric, and others see love. I am all of these things in some way. Somehow the mix of my past and present didn’t come together in the muddy brown of mixing colors. The colors blend and touch and resist one another all at the same time. But it is all beautiful.
Now, when I walk down the street as a religious sister, some people see the institutional Church, others see someone on the fringe of society, others see an eccentric, and others see love. I am all of these things in some way. Somehow the mix of my past and present didn’t come together in the muddy brown of mixing colors. The colors blend and touch and resist one another all at the same time. But it is all beautiful.
Pope taps Dallas parish priest as new bishop of Lubbock
Pope taps parish priest as new bishop of Lubbock :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): The Vatican announced Tuesday that Pope Francis has named Msgr. Robert Milner Coerver, a parish priest from the Archdiocese of Dallas, as the new bishop-elect for Lubbock, Texas.
Msgr. Coerver, pastor of St. Rita Parish in Dallas, will be taking over for Bishop Plácido Rodríguez, who has been leading the diocese since 1994, but who will now retire after having reached the age limit of 75.
Born June 6, 1954, in Dallas, Msgr. Coerver grew up as part of St. Thomas Aquinas Parish before studying beginning his studies in philosophy at Dallas’ Holy Trinity Seminary.
Msgr. Coerver, pastor of St. Rita Parish in Dallas, will be taking over for Bishop Plácido Rodríguez, who has been leading the diocese since 1994, but who will now retire after having reached the age limit of 75.
Born June 6, 1954, in Dallas, Msgr. Coerver grew up as part of St. Thomas Aquinas Parish before studying beginning his studies in philosophy at Dallas’ Holy Trinity Seminary.
Monday, September 26, 2016
What the Devil's attack on gender is really attacking
What the Devil’s Attack on Gender is Really Attacking |Blogs | NCRegister.comSTANTON: No one can miss that there is a powerful cultural revolution happening around the nature of “gender”, and it seems to be taking place globally. One can hardly escape the news of it.
If you want to fall in line with the new gender orthodoxy, you must believe that one person’s gender is not what’s on their birth certificate but merely what that individual believes themselves to be. If you want to be a woman, you need only declare yourself one and tell people you’re really serious about it. You don’t need a doctor’s note. You don’t need anyone to certify that you’re a woman. You don’t need to change your wardrobe or have any surgery or hormone therapy if you choose not to. You just need to declare, “I’m a woman.” You can also change your gender as you feel. Remember, it’s all fluid.
If you want to fall in line with the new gender orthodoxy, you must believe that one person’s gender is not what’s on their birth certificate but merely what that individual believes themselves to be. If you want to be a woman, you need only declare yourself one and tell people you’re really serious about it. You don’t need a doctor’s note. You don’t need anyone to certify that you’re a woman. You don’t need to change your wardrobe or have any surgery or hormone therapy if you choose not to. You just need to declare, “I’m a woman.” You can also change your gender as you feel. Remember, it’s all fluid.
Why colonial America was so afraid of Catholic Quebec
Why Colonial America Was So Afraid of Catholic Quebec |Blogs | NCRegister.comMANN: In describing the conversion of Sister Frances Margaret Allen, I concluded my last blog post: “Like all converts, Fanny Allen had to overcome many obstacles, including the almost inbred fear and hatred of Catholicism of her family and her state.” I also noted that her mother had Fanny baptized in the Episcopal Church before she went to Montreal, as though it would inoculate her from Catholic infection or attraction.
This fear of Catholics and of Canadian Catholics in particular had deep colonial roots in the French and Indian War...
This fear of Catholics and of Canadian Catholics in particular had deep colonial roots in the French and Indian War...
In search of Joseph Pearce’s England
In Search of Joseph Pearce’s England - Crisis MagazineTURLEY: Be careful what you read—it may change you, for better or worse.
In the case of Joseph Pearce, his early reading made him a violent white supremacist. It also landed him in jail. While there, he continued to read; only this time, he read the works of G.K. Chesterton. It was not so much that Chesterton’s words suddenly changed his politics or his propensity to violence, but they did initiate a change, one much more profound than his earlier one into a neo-Nazi and this change would, in due course, prove wholly reforming. A remarkable transformation followed: the angry young atheist became a devout Catholic; and, his anger turned to zeal as he set about popularizing Catholic writers and their works.
In the case of Joseph Pearce, his early reading made him a violent white supremacist. It also landed him in jail. While there, he continued to read; only this time, he read the works of G.K. Chesterton. It was not so much that Chesterton’s words suddenly changed his politics or his propensity to violence, but they did initiate a change, one much more profound than his earlier one into a neo-Nazi and this change would, in due course, prove wholly reforming. A remarkable transformation followed: the angry young atheist became a devout Catholic; and, his anger turned to zeal as he set about popularizing Catholic writers and their works.
Deseret News: What 'Star Trek' teaches us about faith 50 years later
What 'Star Trek' teaches us about faith 50 years later | Deseret News: In 2008, author Kevin C. Neece found God in the most unusual of places — not in a church or in a life-changing experience, but on his TV.
It had been years since Neece, a lifelong Christian, had watched “Star Trek,” and seeing it as an adult gave him a new perspective on the crew of the U.S.S. Enterprise: His favorite show as a child, he realized, was thick with religious meaning. That revelation became his new book, "The Gospel According to Star Trek," which will be published this fall.
It had been years since Neece, a lifelong Christian, had watched “Star Trek,” and seeing it as an adult gave him a new perspective on the crew of the U.S.S. Enterprise: His favorite show as a child, he realized, was thick with religious meaning. That revelation became his new book, "The Gospel According to Star Trek," which will be published this fall.
‘The Loser Letters’ debuts at Catholic University of America
Loser Letters: Play Debuts at Catholic University of America | National ReviewLOPEZ: Olympic gymnast Chellsie Memmel is “on stage in a completely new way” (as she puts it) later this month in the nation’s capital. She’s starring in The Loser Letters, a creative response to “the new atheism” and to a radical secularism that would make religion seem irrational and unworthy of respect, never mind protection.
The play is adapted and directed by Jeffrey Fiske, a playwright who describes the show as a story about a young woman wrestling with Faith, her inner demon. “In this case, the inner demon is played by a world champion and Olympic-medal gymnast!” he exclaims.
The play is adapted and directed by Jeffrey Fiske, a playwright who describes the show as a story about a young woman wrestling with Faith, her inner demon. “In this case, the inner demon is played by a world champion and Olympic-medal gymnast!” he exclaims.
Tens of thousands march against same-sex marriage in Mexico
Tens of Thousands March Against Same-Sex Marriage in Mexico - ABC News: Tens of thousands of people marched through Mexico City on Saturday in opposition to President Enrique Pena Nieto's push to legalize same-sex marriage.
Organizers of the National Front for the Family estimated at least 215,000 people participated, and while that number could not be immediately confirmed, it was clearly one of the largest protest marches in Mexico in recent years.
Dressed mainly in white and carrying white balloons, the marchers held banners warning against same-sex marriage and demanding parents' right to control sex education in schools.
Organizers of the National Front for the Family estimated at least 215,000 people participated, and while that number could not be immediately confirmed, it was clearly one of the largest protest marches in Mexico in recent years.
Dressed mainly in white and carrying white balloons, the marchers held banners warning against same-sex marriage and demanding parents' right to control sex education in schools.
Who's behind the mysterious Eye of the Tiber?
Who's behind the mysterious Eye of the Tiber? :: Catholic News Agency (CNA)REZAC: If you’re a Catholic on Facebook, or the internet in general, chances are SC Naoum has made you laugh. Or he’s made you angry.
If he’s done his job the way he wants, he’s done both.
Naoum is the man, the myth, the legend behind the Catholic satire site, Eye of the Tiber. Catholic News Agency had a chance to sit down with the Californian writer and professional smart aleck to talk inspiration, excommunication (well, his nightmares of it), and of course all those people who think it’s actual news.
If he’s done his job the way he wants, he’s done both.
Naoum is the man, the myth, the legend behind the Catholic satire site, Eye of the Tiber. Catholic News Agency had a chance to sit down with the Californian writer and professional smart aleck to talk inspiration, excommunication (well, his nightmares of it), and of course all those people who think it’s actual news.
Cardinal Parolin to the nuncios: No concession with China
Parolin to the Nuncios: No Concession with ChinaMAGISTER: In mid-September, cardinal secretary of state Pietro Parolin held a meeting with all the apostolic nuncios gathered in Rome to celebrate the jubilee.
And during this meeting, as in other informal conversations, when asked about the status of negotiations with China he gave them some information of great interest.
He confirmed that the negotiation underway concerns only the question of the appointment of bishops, not the reestablishment of diplomatic relations as well, and that the discussion between the two sides is currently taking place between mid-level officials of equal rank: for the Holy See, the undersecretary for relations with states, Antoine Camilleri, and the undersecretary of the congregation for the evangelization of peoples, Tadeusz Wojda.
And during this meeting, as in other informal conversations, when asked about the status of negotiations with China he gave them some information of great interest.
He confirmed that the negotiation underway concerns only the question of the appointment of bishops, not the reestablishment of diplomatic relations as well, and that the discussion between the two sides is currently taking place between mid-level officials of equal rank: for the Holy See, the undersecretary for relations with states, Antoine Camilleri, and the undersecretary of the congregation for the evangelization of peoples, Tadeusz Wojda.
Jesuits prepare for general congregation, election of new leader
Jesuits prepare to elect new leader – CatholicHerald.co.uk: Jesuits are preparing to gather in Rome to elect a new superior general.
The general congregation meeting, the first since 2008, will begin on October 2 with a Mass near the tomb of St Ignatius Loyola. 215 Jesuits from around the world will be present. They include six religious brothers; 33 of the delegates are from the United States and Canada, according to Jesuit Father Patrick Mulemi, director of the Jesuit communications office in Rome.
Pope Francis is scheduled to be in Azerbaijan when the general congregation begins, but he is expected to address the delegates sometime during their meeting.
The general congregation meeting, the first since 2008, will begin on October 2 with a Mass near the tomb of St Ignatius Loyola. 215 Jesuits from around the world will be present. They include six religious brothers; 33 of the delegates are from the United States and Canada, according to Jesuit Father Patrick Mulemi, director of the Jesuit communications office in Rome.
Pope Francis is scheduled to be in Azerbaijan when the general congregation begins, but he is expected to address the delegates sometime during their meeting.
What Argentina’s ‘Amoris Laetitia’ guidelines really mean
What Argentina’s ‘Amoris Laetitia’ Guidelines Really Mean | Daily News | NCRegister.comDESOUZA: When Amoris Laetitia (The Joy of Love) was released in April, it was already clear that an unusual moment in the life of the Church had been reached. The September disclosure of guidelines formulated by Argentinian bishops — and explicitly endorsed personally by the Holy Father himself in a very peculiar manner — has served to reinforce how misunderstood this unusual moment has become.
Pope Francis clearly wanted to change the Church’s practice on the admission of the divorced and civilly remarried to holy Communion, but could not get the synod of bishops to agree. It was an example of the Holy Spirit guiding the magisterium of the Church through the bishops against their head rather than in concert with him. Thus, on the contested question, Amoris Laetitia was ambiguous, employing hints buried in footnotes and deceptive citations of previous magisterial teaching.
Pope Francis clearly wanted to change the Church’s practice on the admission of the divorced and civilly remarried to holy Communion, but could not get the synod of bishops to agree. It was an example of the Holy Spirit guiding the magisterium of the Church through the bishops against their head rather than in concert with him. Thus, on the contested question, Amoris Laetitia was ambiguous, employing hints buried in footnotes and deceptive citations of previous magisterial teaching.
Of interrupted Rosaries and Guardian Angels
Of Interrupted Rosaries and Guardian AngelsBECKER: When I’m driving to work, I have a choice. I can either turn on the radio and listen to my friends on NPR go blah, blah, blah about whatever – or I can pray a rosary. I confess I don’t always choose to pray, and sometimes I feel justified in that if there’s something hot in the news I want to get the latest on – especially if it pertains to my local community or the Church.
Usually, however, I have no excuse, and so ideally I’ll leave the radio off and grab my beads. Or sometimes, if I put it on automatically, I might catch sight of that little statue of the Blessed Mother on my dashboard and think twice. She’s not judging me or scolding; she’s just inviting me and waiting: How about spending a little time with Mom? Headlines and movie reviews can wait.
Usually, however, I have no excuse, and so ideally I’ll leave the radio off and grab my beads. Or sometimes, if I put it on automatically, I might catch sight of that little statue of the Blessed Mother on my dashboard and think twice. She’s not judging me or scolding; she’s just inviting me and waiting: How about spending a little time with Mom? Headlines and movie reviews can wait.
Body of third kidnapped Mexican priest found
Body of Third Mexican Kidnapped Priest Found | Daily News | NCRegister.com: Less than a week after two Catholic priests in Mexico were found murdered after having been abducted from their parishes, the body of a third slain priest, Father José Alfredo López Guillén, has been found.
Father López Guillén, pastor of Janamuato in Mexico’s central state of Michoacan, was taken from the rectory of his parish by unknown persons on Sept. 19. His car had been found overturned on a road nearby.
According to a message written on the archdiocese’s Facebook page, the priest had been killed several days before his lifeless body was found near the town of near Puruandiro.
Father López Guillén, pastor of Janamuato in Mexico’s central state of Michoacan, was taken from the rectory of his parish by unknown persons on Sept. 19. His car had been found overturned on a road nearby.
According to a message written on the archdiocese’s Facebook page, the priest had been killed several days before his lifeless body was found near the town of near Puruandiro.
Cosmas and Damian, the amazing twins who both became saints
The Amazing Twins Who Both Became Saints | Word On FireFERENCE: I was born in 1976, the same year the film “The Omen” was released. My parents decided to name me Damian, not knowing that Damien was the name of the boy-demon in the popular movie. It could have been worse — my dad actually wanted to name me Fabian, but thankfully my mom would have none of it. Needless to say, you can imagine that I got my share of demon and devil jokes as a kid. And to this day many folks still find “Father Damian” to be a contradiction of sorts.
Over the weekend I called my dad and asked him which Damian he had in mind when he and my mom named me. Was it Cosmas and Damian, Peter Damian or Damien of Molokai? After a few moments of thoughtful silence he said, “The leper.” So then I asked, “Then why do I spell my name with two ‘As’ and not one ‘A’ and one ‘E’ like the leper?” He said, “I don’t know. That was a long time ago, son.” Fair enough.
Over the weekend I called my dad and asked him which Damian he had in mind when he and my mom named me. Was it Cosmas and Damian, Peter Damian or Damien of Molokai? After a few moments of thoughtful silence he said, “The leper.” So then I asked, “Then why do I spell my name with two ‘As’ and not one ‘A’ and one ‘E’ like the leper?” He said, “I don’t know. That was a long time ago, son.” Fair enough.
A biblical meditation on the difficulties of old age
A Biblical Meditation on the Difficulties of Old Age - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: Today I would like to go back to the Gospel from last Saturday morning’s daily Mass. For indeed one of the more beautiful passages in the Old Testament is the 12th Chapter of Ecclesiastes. It is a melancholy but soulful meditation on old age. Its poetic imagery is masterful as it draws from the increasingly difficult effects of old age such as hearing loss, fading eyesight, difficulty walking, digestive issues, and even gray hair.
Is this Marian apparition a bridge between Lourdes and Fatima?
Is This Marian Apparition a Bridge Between Lourdes and Fatima? |Blogs | NCRegister.comPRONECHEN: Fatima and Lourdes are household names when it comes to approved apparitions of the Blessed Virgin Mary. But how many outside Poland have heard of the Gietrzwald Apparitions? Maybe a few more than before since pilgrims to this year’s World Youth Day were invited to visit the shrine of this approved apparition.
As Fatima heads to its 100th anniversary, Gietrzwald heads to its 140th which takes place a month earlier. When we look at the Gietrzwald apparitions, an immediate burning question is this: did it act as a heavenly bridge joining Lourdes and Fatima? And prepare the world for Fatima?
At Lourdes in 1858, our Blessed Mother appeared to one person, St. Bernadette. At Gietrzwald in 1877, she visited two young girls. At Fatima in 1917, Our Lady appeared to three young children. A hint of some progression?
As Fatima heads to its 100th anniversary, Gietrzwald heads to its 140th which takes place a month earlier. When we look at the Gietrzwald apparitions, an immediate burning question is this: did it act as a heavenly bridge joining Lourdes and Fatima? And prepare the world for Fatima?
At Lourdes in 1858, our Blessed Mother appeared to one person, St. Bernadette. At Gietrzwald in 1877, she visited two young girls. At Fatima in 1917, Our Lady appeared to three young children. A hint of some progression?
Here are some perfect prayers for before and after Mass
New Liturgical Movement: Perfect Prayers for Before and After the LiturgyKWASNIEWSKI: Those who are familiar with the traditional Roman missal will know that it features quite a number of prayers of priestly preparation before Mass and of thanksgiving after Mass. Often a sampling of these orations, antiphons, psalms, veriscles, etc., were (and still are) printed in Daily Missals intended for the use of the laity.
It would be interesting, apart from anything else, to know how many of the clergy and laity actually employ these prayers. It must be admitted that some of them are extremely long, and for some while before Mass, the priest is occupied with putting on vestments (using the appropriate vesting prayers), holding quiet parleys with MCs, servers, choir or schola directors, and well-meaning folks seeking "a word or two with Father." And while the post-Mass period is usually less chaotic, it still requires at times a heroic effort to withdraw, like Our Lord in the Gospels, into the wilderness where heartfelt thanksgiving becomes possible.
It would be interesting, apart from anything else, to know how many of the clergy and laity actually employ these prayers. It must be admitted that some of them are extremely long, and for some while before Mass, the priest is occupied with putting on vestments (using the appropriate vesting prayers), holding quiet parleys with MCs, servers, choir or schola directors, and well-meaning folks seeking "a word or two with Father." And while the post-Mass period is usually less chaotic, it still requires at times a heroic effort to withdraw, like Our Lord in the Gospels, into the wilderness where heartfelt thanksgiving becomes possible.
Holy Father beatifies Bl. Engelmar Unzeitig, killed “in hatred of the faith” in Dachau
Pope Francis: Bl. Engelmar Unzeitig CMM a model of charity - Vatican Radio: Pope Francis prayed the Angelus with the faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square on Sunday, following a Mass to mark the Jubilee of Catechists celebrated as part of the Extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy.
In remarks to the faithful ahead of the mid-day prayer of Marian devotion, the Holy Father recalled the beatification – which took place in the German city of Würzburg on Saturday – of the Servant of God, Fr. Engelmar Unzeitig CMM, a Czech-born priest who ministered in Austria and was martyred in the Nazi concentration camp at Dachau.
In remarks to the faithful ahead of the mid-day prayer of Marian devotion, the Holy Father recalled the beatification – which took place in the German city of Würzburg on Saturday – of the Servant of God, Fr. Engelmar Unzeitig CMM, a Czech-born priest who ministered in Austria and was martyred in the Nazi concentration camp at Dachau.
On Communion debate, Pope Francis opts for decentralization
On Communion debate, Pope Francis opts for decentralizationALLEN: Towards the end of Amoris Laetitia, Pope Francis’s document on the family, the pontiff writes that when priests have to make judgments in concrete cases such as pastoral care of divorced and civilly remarried Catholics, they are to do so “according to the teaching of the Church and the guidelines of the bishop.”
One wonders if he knew at the time just what a conflicting welter of responses that injunction would elicit.
Since the document appeared in early April, various bishops and groups of bishops around the world have issued guidelines for its implementation, and surveying the landscape, it’s abundantly clear they’re not all saying the same thing.
One wonders if he knew at the time just what a conflicting welter of responses that injunction would elicit.
Since the document appeared in early April, various bishops and groups of bishops around the world have issued guidelines for its implementation, and surveying the landscape, it’s abundantly clear they’re not all saying the same thing.
Third priest in a week found dead in Mexico
Third priest in a week found dead in Mexico – CatholicHerald.co.uk: A missing Mexican priest was found shot dead off the side of a highway in western Mexico days after he was kidnapped from his parish residence, state prosecutors said on Sunday. He was the third Catholic priest to be slain in Mexico in the last week.
The Michoacan state Attorney General’s Office said in a statement that Fr Jose Alfredo Lopez Guillen’s body was found on Saturday night in an area called Las Guayabas on the highway between Puruandiro and Zinaparo.
The Michoacan state Attorney General’s Office said in a statement that Fr Jose Alfredo Lopez Guillen’s body was found on Saturday night in an area called Las Guayabas on the highway between Puruandiro and Zinaparo.
Sunday, September 25, 2016
Christians ‘hung on a cross over fire’, steamrollered and crushed to death in North Korea
Christians 'Hung On A Cross Over Fire', Steamrollered And Crushed To Death In North Korea | Christian News on Christian Today: Christians in North Korea face rape, torture, enslavement, and being killed for their faith, a damning new report from Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW) has warned.
CSW, a UK-based religious freedom charity, said in the report, Total Denial: Violations of Freedom of Religion or Belief in North Korea, that freedom of religion or belief "is largely non-existent" under dictator Kim Jong-Un's leadership.
"Religious beliefs are seen as a threat to the loyalty demanded by the Supreme Leader, so anyone holding these beliefs is severely persecuted," the report says.
"Christians suffer significantly because of the anti-revolutionary and imperialist labels attached to them by the country's leadership."
Among the documented incidents against Christians are "being hung on a cross over a fire, crushed under a steamroller, herded off bridges and trampled underfoot".
CSW, a UK-based religious freedom charity, said in the report, Total Denial: Violations of Freedom of Religion or Belief in North Korea, that freedom of religion or belief "is largely non-existent" under dictator Kim Jong-Un's leadership.
"Religious beliefs are seen as a threat to the loyalty demanded by the Supreme Leader, so anyone holding these beliefs is severely persecuted," the report says.
"Christians suffer significantly because of the anti-revolutionary and imperialist labels attached to them by the country's leadership."
Among the documented incidents against Christians are "being hung on a cross over a fire, crushed under a steamroller, herded off bridges and trampled underfoot".
4 manuals of spiritual combat: Scupoli, Robinson, Thigpen, Arminjon
Spiritual Combat - A Primer - New EvangelizersCORBO: Fellow Christians, take a look around you. Do you see them? Do you hear them? Do you feel them? The constant whisper in your ear. The tugging on your arm. The slight nudge to your shoulder. Probably not.
There are two fields of war going on for Christians. One is raging all around us. The constant attacks on our faith, our church and believers. Some overt and subversive.
The other is raging within us. Silently and barely imperceptible. It follows us around every hour of every day. Unless we recognize it and know the enemy, we give it free reign to wreak havoc on our souls and our minds. Weak souls and weak minds make for weak Christians.� Weak Christians make for weak societies. Hell is inhabited with civilians living in weak societies. It is this battle field I wish to address.
There are two fields of war going on for Christians. One is raging all around us. The constant attacks on our faith, our church and believers. Some overt and subversive.
The other is raging within us. Silently and barely imperceptible. It follows us around every hour of every day. Unless we recognize it and know the enemy, we give it free reign to wreak havoc on our souls and our minds. Weak souls and weak minds make for weak Christians.� Weak Christians make for weak societies. Hell is inhabited with civilians living in weak societies. It is this battle field I wish to address.
A whiff of schism: when different Catholics hold radically different beliefs
A whiff of schism: when different Catholics hold radically different beliefs | Catholic CultureLAWLER: At a Catholic parish in Athy, Ireland, a lesbian couple who resigned from parish ministry after entering a legal marriage has returned to active participation—and to loud applause. So now everyone is welcome in St. Michael’s parish, right?
Wrong.
Anthony Murphy, the editor of Catholic Voice—the man who objected to the lesbian couple’s prominent role in parish life—has received so many threats that he is, on the advice of the local police, staying away from the parish. But then again, if you know the whole story, you may wonder why Murphy would ever want to attend Mass at St. Michael’s.
Wrong.
Anthony Murphy, the editor of Catholic Voice—the man who objected to the lesbian couple’s prominent role in parish life—has received so many threats that he is, on the advice of the local police, staying away from the parish. But then again, if you know the whole story, you may wonder why Murphy would ever want to attend Mass at St. Michael’s.
Ignoring the poor is a damnable sin: A homily for the 26th Sunday
Ignoring the Poor Is a Damnable Sin – A Homily for the 26th Sunday - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: In the Gospel for today about the rich man and Lazarus the Lord gives us some important teachings on judgment and Hell. We live in times in which many consider the teachings on Hell to be untenable. They struggle to understand how a God described as loving, merciful, and forgiving can assign certain souls to Hell forever. Despite the fact that the Doctrine of Hell is taught extensively in Scripture as well as by Jesus Himself, the doctrine does not comport well with many modern notions and so many think that it has to go.
Pope Francis to catechists: Never tire of witnessing to the Resurrection
Pope Francis to Catechists: never tire of witnessing to Resurrection - Vatican Radio: Keeping the central truth of our faith – that Jesus Christ is Our Divine Lord, that He died and is risen from the dead, never to die again – front and center in our lives, so as to witness always and everywhere to His divine Lordship and victory over death: this was the central theme and focus of Pope Francis’ homily on Sunday morning, which he delivered during the Mass he celebrated to mark the Jubilee of Catechists – on Sunday the 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time and the Jubilee of Catechists in the Extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy.
Police officer who saved 5-year-old boy from drowning meets him as a grown man
Police officer who saved boy from drowning meets him as a grown man | The Columbus Dispatch: Christopher Jones walked into the Columbus Police Academy on Friday and tapped an officer on the shoulder.
Since Jones was 5 years old, he has never forgotten the name of Officer James Poole.
“Do you remember me?” Jones asked Poole.
Poole shook Jones’ hand and looked at him politely, but didn’t recognize him. Jones quickly refreshed his memory.
Since Jones was 5 years old, he has never forgotten the name of Officer James Poole.
“Do you remember me?” Jones asked Poole.
Poole shook Jones’ hand and looked at him politely, but didn’t recognize him. Jones quickly refreshed his memory.
Saturday, September 24, 2016
God lifted up Bl. Herman the Cripple to scatter the proud in their conceit
God Lifted Up Bl. Herman the Cripple to Scatter the Proud in Their Conceit |Blogs | NCRegister.comSTAGNARO: I have a great fondness for the saints. And anyone who's sat down and read a hagiography of these blessed people will be overwhelmed, alarmed and grateful at finding a brother- or sister-in-arms.
In my research, one particular saint caught my attention. His name is Blessed Herman the Cripple.
Yes. Blessed Herman … the Cripple.
Well … there are some advantages to political correctness. Admittedly, very few―but there are some.
Herman Contractus of Reichenau, (1013-1054) was an eleventh-century polymath―a person of wide-ranging knowledge or learning in various, seemingly unrelated areas. But, more importantly, he lived a saintly life.
This particular polymath was also severely disabled.
In my research, one particular saint caught my attention. His name is Blessed Herman the Cripple.
Yes. Blessed Herman … the Cripple.
Well … there are some advantages to political correctness. Admittedly, very few―but there are some.
Herman Contractus of Reichenau, (1013-1054) was an eleventh-century polymath―a person of wide-ranging knowledge or learning in various, seemingly unrelated areas. But, more importantly, he lived a saintly life.
This particular polymath was also severely disabled.
Hundreds of thousands of migrants at sea owe their lives to one number saved on a satellite phone
Hundreds of thousands of migrants at sea owe their lives to one number saved on a Thuraya satphone — Quartz: Last year more than a million migrants and refugees risked their lives in overcrowded, often barely seaworthy boats to cross the Mediterranean. Most of them were Syrians, making the trip from Turkey to Greece in an attempt to get inside the borders of the European Union.
After my mastectomy, how do I dress my new body?
How Do I Dress My New Body? |Blogs | NCRegister.comHAMILTON: This problem of dressing after a mastectomy is becoming increasingly common as more and more women opt out of the additional surgeries and pain of reconstruction, or learn that they aren’t good candidates for it. There are a lot of women like me out there, trying to figure this out.
My only wish is that the world would catch up with us. I could use some help, thinking this through. I’ve taken online courses on fitting and asked questions, but often as not, the instructor tells me that they don’t know, either. I even asked one company that does a lot of online courses to create a course for fitting and styling (styling is at least as important as fitting) after a double mastectomy. The answer was friendly, but they ain’t gonna.
My only wish is that the world would catch up with us. I could use some help, thinking this through. I’ve taken online courses on fitting and asked questions, but often as not, the instructor tells me that they don’t know, either. I even asked one company that does a lot of online courses to create a course for fitting and styling (styling is at least as important as fitting) after a double mastectomy. The answer was friendly, but they ain’t gonna.
Chris Pratt reminds rude cross-wearing fan to represent
Extra: Chris Pratt reminds rude fan to represent – Aleteia.org – Worldwide Catholic Network Sharing Faith Resources for those seeking Truth – Aleteia.org: Chris Pratt, the star of Guardians of the Galaxy was leaving LAX when he was mobbed by fans and reporters looking for autographs and gossip. One reporter even asked his opinion about the recent divorce of Hollywood power couple Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie. He gives the man a puzzled look, as if wondering why he would be asked that, but responded that he’d pray for them.
Tell the truth when it might hurt you
Tell the truth when it might hurt you - Society - Aleteia.org – Worldwide Catholic Network Sharing Faith Resources for those seeking Truth – Aleteia.orgMILLS: Make this a rule of life: Tell the truth when telling it might hurt you. If you fear the results, speak as if you don’t. God will be honored, the Church and the world will be served, and you will feel better about yourself. You might have fewer friends and more enemies, but so did Jesus.
I say this looking in a mirror. I can think with shame of times someone around me sneered at the Faith or the Church and I didn’t say anything. Keeping quiet was easier than a painful argument in which I was likely to be opposed by everyone else, who would be full of the secularist’s righteous wrath against the ignorant, and the glee of the lion who trots into the arena to find a chubby Christian chained in the middle.
I say this looking in a mirror. I can think with shame of times someone around me sneered at the Faith or the Church and I didn’t say anything. Keeping quiet was easier than a painful argument in which I was likely to be opposed by everyone else, who would be full of the secularist’s righteous wrath against the ignorant, and the glee of the lion who trots into the arena to find a chubby Christian chained in the middle.
Jesus is waiting for you just around the corner
Jesus is Waiting Just Around the CornerMILLS: My wife thinks it’s supposed to look like a ship. I suspect the church is meant to look like a clam (one of the local trademarks). I hope I’m wrong, but you never know with church architects. We were several hundred miles away from home taking care of a very sick friend and on Sunday morning went to St. Anne’s, the parish just around the corner from his house. I was tempted to go elsewhere, to some of the beautiful old churches downtown, but we didn’t want to be away very long.
The church doesn’t look at all like our home parish, St. Joseph’s, built one-hundred-some years ago by Italian immigrants and their children. St. Joseph’s looks to me the way a church should look. I like the long nave pointing everyone up to the altar, with all the saints in the stained glass windows along the sides and the realistic Stations of the Cross on the pillars. I like the classical Crucifix I can see behind the altar and I like the old-fashioned Tabernacle below it. I like all the statues and the shrines and the candles. I like the Pieta in the alcove at the front to the right. I like the confessionals at the back.
The church doesn’t look at all like our home parish, St. Joseph’s, built one-hundred-some years ago by Italian immigrants and their children. St. Joseph’s looks to me the way a church should look. I like the long nave pointing everyone up to the altar, with all the saints in the stained glass windows along the sides and the realistic Stations of the Cross on the pillars. I like the classical Crucifix I can see behind the altar and I like the old-fashioned Tabernacle below it. I like all the statues and the shrines and the candles. I like the Pieta in the alcove at the front to the right. I like the confessionals at the back.
Does quitting social media make you happier? Yes, say young people who have done it...
Does quitting social media make you happier? Yes, say young people doing it | Media | The Guardian: Our love of social media seems to have grown and grown in the past decade, but recent studies show the tide may be turning for some platforms, with young people in particular ditching Facebook. One study claims that more than 11 million teenagers left Facebook between 2011 and 2014. It’s been argued that they are swapping public platforms such as Twitter and Instagram for more private messaging apps like WhatsApp and Snapchat.
We asked the Guardian’s younger readers whether they have quit social media and why, as well as what apps they are ditching. Almost all reported a greater sense of happiness after going offline. Here, we share some of their experiences.
We asked the Guardian’s younger readers whether they have quit social media and why, as well as what apps they are ditching. Almost all reported a greater sense of happiness after going offline. Here, we share some of their experiences.
Mass is a pure and holy sacrifice, not a form of entertainment...
Must worship be entertaining? - Church - Aleteia.org – Worldwide Catholic Network Sharing Faith Resources for those seeking Truth – Aleteia.orgMCTEIGUE: Whatever we are doing that might be attracting youth, we rarely keep them. One reason we don’t is because we can’t use worldly methods to beat the world at its own game. We’re kidding ourselves if we think we can equal or exceed the stimulation and novelty offered by pop concerts and video games. And we don’t keep the youth we initially attract because we don’t help them to become mature and committed Christians. We cannot win the future for our youth by exalting trendiness and depriving them of the heritage they need and deserve. Nevertheless, we give them gimmicks that flash, then fade. Theodore Dalrymple warns, “Our problem is not that we preserve the past; it is that we produce so little that is, or ever will be, worth preserving.”
How to be charitable in a cutthroat work environment
How to be Charitable in a Cutthroat Work Environment - Mountain CatholicPETESCH: A reader recently wrote into Mountain Catholic with a tough question:
“How do you remain charitable in a cutthroat work environment, where people are rewarded for their Machiavellian practices?”
Normally, I would say, “Quit.”
But that’s simply not realistic. Giving up your source of income even temporarily is not an option for most people. In many cases, people must continue to face the manipulation, backstabbing, and gossiping that swirls around their place of business.
If you find yourself in this situation, consider adopting these practices to persevere in charity.
“How do you remain charitable in a cutthroat work environment, where people are rewarded for their Machiavellian practices?”
Normally, I would say, “Quit.”
But that’s simply not realistic. Giving up your source of income even temporarily is not an option for most people. In many cases, people must continue to face the manipulation, backstabbing, and gossiping that swirls around their place of business.
If you find yourself in this situation, consider adopting these practices to persevere in charity.
A glimpse of our true enemy, as seen in a commercial
A Glimpse of Our True Enemy, As Seen in a Commercial - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: As the video opens we see a man and woman approaching each other, each surrounded by cartoonlike demons. I call them demons because although they appear to be “cute” they are nothing of the sort. Like the biblical “wolves in sheep’s clothing,” they are influencing the two humans in the video in a hidden but very real way. Demons surely do this to all of us, tempting us to sin and seeking to influence our thoughts and actions. The two people in the commercial seem oblivious to the presence of these creatures, just as we are often unaware of the demons who seek to influence us.
Pope Francis receives families of Nice terror attack victims
Pope Francis receives families of Nice terror attack victims - Vatican Radio: Pope Francis on Saturday received family members of the victims of the Bastille Day terror attacks in Nice, renewing his condolences and promises of prayer for their healing and for the souls of their loved-ones.
“It is with profound emotion that I meet you,” said Pope Francis, “who suffer in body or in soul because, one festive evening, violence blindly struck you – you, or one of your dear ones – without regard for origin or religion.” The Holy Father went on to say, “I desire to share your pain, a pain that becomes even stronger when I think of the children, even entire families, whose lives have been so suddenly and so dramatically torn away: to each of you I assure my compassion, my closeness and my prayer.”
“It is with profound emotion that I meet you,” said Pope Francis, “who suffer in body or in soul because, one festive evening, violence blindly struck you – you, or one of your dear ones – without regard for origin or religion.” The Holy Father went on to say, “I desire to share your pain, a pain that becomes even stronger when I think of the children, even entire families, whose lives have been so suddenly and so dramatically torn away: to each of you I assure my compassion, my closeness and my prayer.”
Friday, September 23, 2016
Canadian ethicists urge: Ban conscientious objection by doctors, screen out pro-life medical students
Ban conscientious objection by Canadian doctors, urge ethicists in volatile commentary | National Post: Authorities should bar doctors from refusing to provide such services as abortion and assisted death on moral grounds, and screen out potential medical students who might impose their values on patients, leading Canadian and British bioethicists argue in a provocative new commentary.
The paper by professors at Queen’s and Oxford universities, who are also editors of two major bioethics journals, throws rocket fuel onto a debate already inflamed by the new law allowing assisted death.
They argue that physicians have no right to opt out of lawful medical services — from abortion to prescribing contraceptives — that are requested by a patient and in the person’s interest.
The paper by professors at Queen’s and Oxford universities, who are also editors of two major bioethics journals, throws rocket fuel onto a debate already inflamed by the new law allowing assisted death.
They argue that physicians have no right to opt out of lawful medical services — from abortion to prescribing contraceptives — that are requested by a patient and in the person’s interest.
Does it matter how we treat others? The 26th Sunday of Ordinary Time...
The Sacred Page: Does it Matter How We Treat Others? The 26th Sunday of Ordinary TimeBERGSMA: Does it matter how we treat others?� What does my neighbor’s suffering have to do with me?� Can I continue living in comfort while bypassing those around me who are in misery?� These are questions that the Readings for this Sunday raise, and to which they provide uncomfortable answers.� Let’s read and let the Holy Spirit move us outside our comfort zone.
‘Queen of Katwe’ will delight practically everyone who sees it
SDG Reviews ‘Queen of Katwe’ | Daily News | NCRegister.comGREYDANUS: There are so many reasons Queen of Katwe shouldn’t even exist, and just thinking about them all makes me even more vexed at Hollywood for its desperate obsession with exhausted franchise fare when there are winning and wonderful stories like this to be told.
It may be that more people saw the cartoony African tribesmen of the dark, dismal Independence Day: Resurgence this summer than will see the impoverished but colorful world of Katwe, the largest slum in the Ugandan capital of Kampala, in Mira Nair’s fact-based film about real-life chess prodigy Phiona Mutesi, starring David Oyelowo (Selma) and Lupita Nyong’o (12 Years a Slave).
Those who do see Queen of Katwe, though, will experience something moving and enriching in a way that has become rare in Hollywood studio fare. Few people really liked Independence Day: Resurgence, but they watched it anyway. I have to think Queen of Katwe will delight practically everyone who sees it.
It may be that more people saw the cartoony African tribesmen of the dark, dismal Independence Day: Resurgence this summer than will see the impoverished but colorful world of Katwe, the largest slum in the Ugandan capital of Kampala, in Mira Nair’s fact-based film about real-life chess prodigy Phiona Mutesi, starring David Oyelowo (Selma) and Lupita Nyong’o (12 Years a Slave).
Those who do see Queen of Katwe, though, will experience something moving and enriching in a way that has become rare in Hollywood studio fare. Few people really liked Independence Day: Resurgence, but they watched it anyway. I have to think Queen of Katwe will delight practically everyone who sees it.
Diocese of Knoxville opens cause for beatification of heroic Tennessee priest
Knoxville Opens Beatification Cause for Heroic Tennessee Priest |Blogs | NCRegister.comONEEL: We already have one new American saint (recall that Congress made Mother Teresa an honorary US citizen). Might we soon have another?
While it may take many years, even hundreds, yes we will if the good people at the Diocese of Knoxville’s prayers are answered.
On August 10, that see’s ordinary, Bishop Rick Sticka signed the formal paperwork opening the beatification cause of Father Patrick J. Ryan, who died in Chattanooga at age 33 while serving the sick and dying.
Born 1845 in County Tipperary, Ireland, an unscrupulous landlord and lack of opportunity forced his family’s emigration to New York. At age 21, he entered seminary in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, in 1866, and received ordination just three years later.
While it may take many years, even hundreds, yes we will if the good people at the Diocese of Knoxville’s prayers are answered.
On August 10, that see’s ordinary, Bishop Rick Sticka signed the formal paperwork opening the beatification cause of Father Patrick J. Ryan, who died in Chattanooga at age 33 while serving the sick and dying.
Born 1845 in County Tipperary, Ireland, an unscrupulous landlord and lack of opportunity forced his family’s emigration to New York. At age 21, he entered seminary in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, in 1866, and received ordination just three years later.
Padre Pio and the noble dreams of fathers
The Noble Dreams of FathersCLARK: On a hot and sunny day about one hundred and twenty-five years ago, on a little Italian farm, the landscape contained a familiar image—a man tending to the needs of his land.
That man, Grazio Mario Forgione, was happily joined that afternoon by his son, whom he had named “Francesco” in honor of Saint Francis of Assisi. As Grazio worked the land that day, he assured Francesco that his son’s life would be much different from his own.
Francesco had dreamed of becoming a monk, and Grazio assured Francesco that he would provide him with an education to make that dream possible.
This was no small promise on Grazio’s part. Like many people in their little Italian town, Grazio and his wife Maria Giuseppa had very little money and were illiterate—two factors that would make the possibility of high-level academic formation more difficult.
That man, Grazio Mario Forgione, was happily joined that afternoon by his son, whom he had named “Francesco” in honor of Saint Francis of Assisi. As Grazio worked the land that day, he assured Francesco that his son’s life would be much different from his own.
Francesco had dreamed of becoming a monk, and Grazio assured Francesco that he would provide him with an education to make that dream possible.
This was no small promise on Grazio’s part. Like many people in their little Italian town, Grazio and his wife Maria Giuseppa had very little money and were illiterate—two factors that would make the possibility of high-level academic formation more difficult.
Vatican announces new rules for miracles at Congregation for the Causes of Saints
New rules for miracles at Congregation for Saints - Vatican Radio: The Cardinal Secretary of State, Pietro Parolin, under the mandate of Pope Francis, has approved new Regulations for the Medical Board of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints.
The Regulations were published on Friday, signed by Cardinal Angelo Amato, the Prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, and Archbishop Marcello Bartolucci, secretary of the same dicastery.
In a brief introduction it is explained that the miracle required for the beatification of Venerable Servants of God and for the canonisation of Blesseds has always been examined with the utmost rigour. Already in medieval times consultation was sought from medical experts for whom, on 17 September 1743, a specific Order was created by Benedict XIV. More recently, Pious XII instituted, at the Congregation of Sacred Rites, on 20 October 1948, a Commission of Doctors to which he added, on 15 December 1948 a special Medical Council.
The Regulations were published on Friday, signed by Cardinal Angelo Amato, the Prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, and Archbishop Marcello Bartolucci, secretary of the same dicastery.
In a brief introduction it is explained that the miracle required for the beatification of Venerable Servants of God and for the canonisation of Blesseds has always been examined with the utmost rigour. Already in medieval times consultation was sought from medical experts for whom, on 17 September 1743, a specific Order was created by Benedict XIV. More recently, Pious XII instituted, at the Congregation of Sacred Rites, on 20 October 1948, a Commission of Doctors to which he added, on 15 December 1948 a special Medical Council.
Thursday, September 22, 2016
The lies of the devil and the empty promises of the world
The Lies of the Devil and the Empty Promises of the World - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: One of the great illusions under which we labor is that if we only get just one more thing from this world, then we will be happy. Perhaps we think that if we just had a little more money, or a better job, or the latest iPhone, or if we were married to so-and-so, or if we lived in a better neighborhood, then we would be satisfied and content at last. But “at last” never seems to come even if we do get some of the things on our list.
Padre Pio continues to work modern (and little-known) miracles
St. Padre Pio Continues to Work Modern — and Little Known — Miracles | Daily News | NCRegister.com: Known around the globe as simply “Padre Pio,” Saint Pio of Pietrelcina has been called one of the “most active” saints in the Church, and continues to work miracles for those who pray through his intercession.
“St. Padre Pio is a pretty powerful intercessor…a priest said to me once that he’s probably one of the most active saints in the Church,” Father John Paul Zeller, a Franciscan Missionary of the Eternal Word, told CNA in an interview.
A Missionary of Mercy from Birmingham, Ala., Father Zeller possesses a first-class relic of Padre Pio, and has witnessed several healings in first-person after praying through Padre Pio’s intercession with the relic in hand.
“St. Padre Pio is a pretty powerful intercessor…a priest said to me once that he’s probably one of the most active saints in the Church,” Father John Paul Zeller, a Franciscan Missionary of the Eternal Word, told CNA in an interview.
A Missionary of Mercy from Birmingham, Ala., Father Zeller possesses a first-class relic of Padre Pio, and has witnessed several healings in first-person after praying through Padre Pio’s intercession with the relic in hand.
7 insanely bad TV shows and movies featuring popes
7 Insanely Bad TV Shows and Movies Featuring Popes |Blogs | NCRegister.comMATTARCHBOLD: Many Catholics are rightly upset about the scandalous anti-Catholic new HBO show called "The Young Pope." But Hollywood has been attacking the Church for years. I went back and looked up some movies in which the pope and the Church were portrayed. What I came up with was not encouraging.
Pope Francis’ canon law changes strengthen bonds with Eastern Churches
Pope Francis’ Canon Law Change Strengthens Evangelism With Eastern Churches | Daily News | NCRegister.com: Pope Francis has strengthened the Latin and Eastern Churches’ cooperative efforts in spreading the Gospel with a new decree that brings the Latin Church’s Code of Canon Law into harmony with the canon law of the Eastern Catholic Churches.
The new document from Pope Francis, issued motu proprio (on his own initiative), changes the Latin Church’s Code of Canon Law to harmonize with the existing canons on baptism and marriage in the Eastern Code of Canon Law governing the 23 other Eastern Catholic Churches spread throughout the world. It also strengthens the pastoral support for Eastern Christians in the West, reminding the faithful that they “are obliged to observe their own rite wherever they are,” and sends another powerful message in Francis’ papacy that the Catholic Church is a communion of co-equal sister Churches with their own rich rites and traditions deserving of mutual respect.
The new document from Pope Francis, issued motu proprio (on his own initiative), changes the Latin Church’s Code of Canon Law to harmonize with the existing canons on baptism and marriage in the Eastern Code of Canon Law governing the 23 other Eastern Catholic Churches spread throughout the world. It also strengthens the pastoral support for Eastern Christians in the West, reminding the faithful that they “are obliged to observe their own rite wherever they are,” and sends another powerful message in Francis’ papacy that the Catholic Church is a communion of co-equal sister Churches with their own rich rites and traditions deserving of mutual respect.
Full text: “Affirmation of the Church’s Teaching on the Gift of Sexuality”
Humanae Vitae - The Catholic University of America: We, the undersigned scholars, affirm that the Catholic Church’s teachings on the gift of sexuality, on marriage, and on contraception are true and defensible on many grounds, among them the truths of reason and revelation concerning the dignity of the human person.
Scholarly support for the Church’s teachings on the gift of sexuality, on marriage, and on contraception has burgeoned in recent decades. Moreover, institutes and programs supporting that teaching have been established all over the world. Even some secular feminists and secular programs have begun to acknowledge the harms of contraception.
Scholarly support for the Church’s teachings on the gift of sexuality, on marriage, and on contraception has burgeoned in recent decades. Moreover, institutes and programs supporting that teaching have been established all over the world. Even some secular feminists and secular programs have begun to acknowledge the harms of contraception.
To attain great success (and great sanctity), you have to learn to play the long game
New Advent: To attain great success (and great sanctity), you have to learn to play the long game: All of history's greatest figures achieved success in almost exactly the same way. But rather than celebrating this part of the creative process we ignore it. This missing chapter in the story of success reveals the secret to doing meaningful work. But in the modern world, full of distraction, do we have what it takes to do great things?
500 Catholic thinkers say pushing contraception is wrong for women, and here's why
Catholic Thinkers Say Pushing Contraception Is Wrong for Women, and Here’s Why | Daily News | NCRegister.com: Modern-day imperialism. Harmful to women. A failed promise. These are the ways that leading Catholic scholars described contraception, saying the Church is right to warn against it.
“What women have discovered over the past 48 years is that we don’t have a design flaw. Being a woman is good enough, and it’s a wonderful thing,” said Mary Rice Hasson, director of the Catholic Women’s Forum at the Ethics and Public Policy Center.
Hasson was among a group of more than 500 Catholic scholars who signed a document supporting Church teaching against contraception, as expressed in Blessed Paul VI’s 1968 encyclical Humanae Vitae.
The document, entitled “Affirmation of the Catholic Church’s Teaching on the Gift of Sexuality,” was released at a Sept. 20 media conference at The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C.
“What women have discovered over the past 48 years is that we don’t have a design flaw. Being a woman is good enough, and it’s a wonderful thing,” said Mary Rice Hasson, director of the Catholic Women’s Forum at the Ethics and Public Policy Center.
Hasson was among a group of more than 500 Catholic scholars who signed a document supporting Church teaching against contraception, as expressed in Blessed Paul VI’s 1968 encyclical Humanae Vitae.
The document, entitled “Affirmation of the Catholic Church’s Teaching on the Gift of Sexuality,” was released at a Sept. 20 media conference at The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C.
Politics, punditry, and personal faith: An interview with John Dickerson of “Face the Nation”
Politics, Punditry, and Personal Faith: An Interview with “Face the Nation’s” John DickersonROSSI: Hitler analogies and political circuses may seem like a modern aspect of electioneering, but history tells a different story, as evidenced in John Dickerson’s new book “Whistlestop: My Favorite Stories from Presidential Campaign History,” which manages to be an educational, entertaining, and often surprising exploration of the good, bad and ugly of running for the highest office in the land.
The moderator of “Face the Nation” and host of the “Whistlestop” podcast on Slate.com recently joined me on “Christopher Closeup” to discuss the historical precedent for angry and divisive political campaigns, social media’s effect on the voting public, and the role God and religion have played in elections past.
The moderator of “Face the Nation” and host of the “Whistlestop” podcast on Slate.com recently joined me on “Christopher Closeup” to discuss the historical precedent for angry and divisive political campaigns, social media’s effect on the voting public, and the role God and religion have played in elections past.
What my husband saw when he saw Padre Pio’s heart
“A sense of too-muchness”: My husband visits Padre Pio’s heart – Aleteia.org – Worldwide Catholic Network Sharing Faith Resources for those seeking Truth – Aleteia.orgFISHER: Yesterday, my husband Damien Fisher, who is a newspaper reporter, went to see and venerate the heart of Padre Pio at Immaculate Conception Church in Lowell, Massachusetts. I asked him a few questions about his experience — like What made you want to go and see Padre Pio’s heart? and What was the scene like in the church? What was the mood like among the people there?
“We are a family that is never separated”: Opus Dei mourns 11 members killed on pilgrimage
"We are a family that is never separated" - Opus Dei: The Mass on September 15 was celebrated in the Church of Saint Josemaría Escrivá de Balaguer, in Guadalajara. During his homily, Fr. Francisco read from the letter that the Prelate of Opus Dei, Bishop Javier Echevarría, sent on September 14 to his daughters in Mexico, after receiving news of the accident.
“I have to tell you that, in the face of so much sorrow, I don’t know how to begin. But I want to accept God’s will; may each word, each letter of what I am writing be a suffrage with the whole Work for the eternal rest of these beloved daughters. I ask the Blessed Trinity to grant them a very rich Heaven, and we will not forget to remember them each day.”
“I have to tell you that, in the face of so much sorrow, I don’t know how to begin. But I want to accept God’s will; may each word, each letter of what I am writing be a suffrage with the whole Work for the eternal rest of these beloved daughters. I ask the Blessed Trinity to grant them a very rich Heaven, and we will not forget to remember them each day.”
How to improve your working memory and become more productive
How to Improve Your Working Memory and Become More Productive: Whether you’re answering hard questions, making impromptu remarks, analyzing a situation, or synthesizing a bunch of data points into a cohesive and convincing presentation, the ability to think and process multiple pieces of information quickly and effectively is a vital skill to have. In our fast-paced and fluid world, you’ve got to be able to pull out the right piece of knowledge at the right time.
Your working memory is what allows you to do that.
While it was once thought that the capacity of each individual’s working memory was something they were simply born with, research from the worlds of cognitive science and psychology are showing that we can actually train it to become stronger and faster.
Your working memory is what allows you to do that.
While it was once thought that the capacity of each individual’s working memory was something they were simply born with, research from the worlds of cognitive science and psychology are showing that we can actually train it to become stronger and faster.
It's a great gift to love babies, for then you love what God loves...
Loving what God loves: “For unto us a child is born...” ~ The MotherlandsRENNER: I was never what you might call a “baby person.” When I was working at an orphanage, I gravitated to the older kids, whose thoughts, questions, and stories fascinated me. While acknowledging that there is no greater feeling than a baby sleeping on your chest, I was never one to spend hours holding babies in the nursery.
But then I had my own baby, and from the moment I saw those two lines on the pregnancy test, I became a baby person. Seeing her do back flips during the ultrasound, feeling her hiccups every night while I tried to sleep—it was unexpectedly glorious, better than I imagined.
But then I had my own baby, and from the moment I saw those two lines on the pregnancy test, I became a baby person. Seeing her do back flips during the ultrasound, feeling her hiccups every night while I tried to sleep—it was unexpectedly glorious, better than I imagined.
The evil secret China doesn't want you to know about (warning: disturbing content)
China’s evil secret – CatholicHerald.co.uk: ‘The scalpel cut into the chest and blood gushed out,” recalled an unnamed policeman in Shenyang, China. “At that time, we had been interrogating and severely torturing her for about a week. She already had countless wounds on her body. We used electrical batons to torture her.”
The policemen described how a secretive government office had sent over two men: one a military surgeon, the other a graduate from a medical university. “No anaesthetics were used. They cut her chest with a knife without shaking hands,” he said.
When the woman, who belonged to the banned Falun Gong movement, shouted out in defiance, the surgeon hesitated. But after a nod from his superior, he continued. “It was extremely horrible,” the policeman said. “I can imitate her scream for you. It sounded like something was being ripped apart.”
The policemen described how a secretive government office had sent over two men: one a military surgeon, the other a graduate from a medical university. “No anaesthetics were used. They cut her chest with a knife without shaking hands,” he said.
When the woman, who belonged to the banned Falun Gong movement, shouted out in defiance, the surgeon hesitated. But after a nod from his superior, he continued. “It was extremely horrible,” the policeman said. “I can imitate her scream for you. It sounded like something was being ripped apart.”
Mark Wahlberg pauses ‘Transformers’ filming — for Sunday Mass
Mark Wahlberg pauses 'Transformers' filming because it was Sunday – For Her: If you want proof that former bad boy Mark Wahlberg is a changed man, just look at his recent behavior on set of Transformers: The Last Night. While filming the action movie in the North East region of England on Sunday, he took an unexpected break. Rather than lounge around his Hollywood star trailer eating bonbons (or whatever it is they do in there!), Wahlberg attended Mass.
Wahlberg did more than pay a personal visit to St. Aidan’s Church in Seahouses, though. He took communion and reportedly made a large donation to the church (roughly $260 reports say), which saw about 70 or 80 people in its pews that Sunday.
Wahlberg did more than pay a personal visit to St. Aidan’s Church in Seahouses, though. He took communion and reportedly made a large donation to the church (roughly $260 reports say), which saw about 70 or 80 people in its pews that Sunday.
Trump aims to shore up Catholic vote, names council of 33 Catholic advisers
Trump names heavyweight group of Catholic advisers: Republican presidential nominee Donald J. Trump, who has struggled with Catholic voters in some polls, on Wednesday named an advisory council of respected conservative Catholic leaders.
The list of 33 advisors includes prominent Pennsylvanians, such as former Republican Sen. Rick Santorum, who ran for president in 2012 and 2016; Faith Whittlesey, former U.S. ambassador to Switzerland and a high-ranking political official in the Reagan White House; and U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly, Republican of Erie.
The list of 33 advisors includes prominent Pennsylvanians, such as former Republican Sen. Rick Santorum, who ran for president in 2012 and 2016; Faith Whittlesey, former U.S. ambassador to Switzerland and a high-ranking political official in the Reagan White House; and U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly, Republican of Erie.
9 fortunate souls who survived being lost at sea
9 Fortunate Souls Who Survived Being Lost at Sea: The sea is like a wet desert. There's no food. There's no shelter. Nothing to drink. In every direction, the view is the same: nothing. Plus, dangerous predators lurk just beneath the depths.
A shipwreck out on the open ocean can be a death sentence. If rescue doesn't come in the first 48 hours, it probably never will. Learning to survive will take skill, courage, and not a small amount of luck.
Here are nine stories of people who survived despite the odds.
A shipwreck out on the open ocean can be a death sentence. If rescue doesn't come in the first 48 hours, it probably never will. Learning to survive will take skill, courage, and not a small amount of luck.
Here are nine stories of people who survived despite the odds.
3 arguments against reincarnation
Three Arguments Against Reincarnation | Catholic AnswersHORN: Reincarnation, which means literally “to be made flesh again,” is the belief that after death the soul lives on in another body. The soul might inhabit a similar body (e.g., a man’s soul enters another man’s body) or even a radically dissimilar body (e.g., a man’s soul enters a frog’s body).
Wednesday, September 21, 2016
The hidden Catholic references in ‘Star Trek’
The Hidden Catholic References in ‘Star Trek’ |Blogs | NCRegister.comSTAGNARO: Let's get this straight — I'm a Trekker, not a Trekkie.
And, as a Trekker, I felt called to celebrate Star Trek's 50th anniversary at New York's Jacob Javits Center during the first week of Sept. 2016.
And as I stood amongst my outrageously costumed Trek confreres and consoeurs, immersing myself in all things Trek, I came to consider Trek's Catholicity.
It's certainly true that Gene Roddenberry was a militant atheist, anti-religionist and Rosicrucian, and hoped to portray the future as a techno-secularist paradise sans religion (read: Catholicism). But the sad truth (for atheists) is that he was foiled at every twist and turn.
And, as a Trekker, I felt called to celebrate Star Trek's 50th anniversary at New York's Jacob Javits Center during the first week of Sept. 2016.
And as I stood amongst my outrageously costumed Trek confreres and consoeurs, immersing myself in all things Trek, I came to consider Trek's Catholicity.
It's certainly true that Gene Roddenberry was a militant atheist, anti-religionist and Rosicrucian, and hoped to portray the future as a techno-secularist paradise sans religion (read: Catholicism). But the sad truth (for atheists) is that he was foiled at every twist and turn.
How to pray the ‘Te Deum’, the ancient hymn of praise to God
How to Pray the ‘Te Deum’, the Ancient Hymn of Praise to God |Blogs | NCRegister.comDICAMILLO: We all have our favorite prayers, novenas, devotions and aspirations.
One of mine is a prayer that seems to have fallen out of popular use lately: the ancient “Te Deum”, commonly attributed to St. Ambrose, Bishop of Milan, Doctor of the Church and the man who baptized St. Augustine. However, the authorship of this venerable hymn of praise has never been firmly nailed down and Nicetas of Remesiana has been put forward as a possible composer too. More recently an argument that the Te Deum is part of an ancient Easter Vigil hymn has been proposed.
One of mine is a prayer that seems to have fallen out of popular use lately: the ancient “Te Deum”, commonly attributed to St. Ambrose, Bishop of Milan, Doctor of the Church and the man who baptized St. Augustine. However, the authorship of this venerable hymn of praise has never been firmly nailed down and Nicetas of Remesiana has been put forward as a possible composer too. More recently an argument that the Te Deum is part of an ancient Easter Vigil hymn has been proposed.
Atlanta auxiliary David Talley appointed Bishop of Alexandria, Louisiana
Whispers in the Loggia: The "Taz" Is Taken – US' Top Prospect Talley Lands In the BayouPALMO: Even if Lord only knows how Louisiana's 43,000-member diocese of Alexandria nabbed the top pick in the Episcopal Draft, the surprise result's nonetheless come to pass: at Roman Noon this Wednesday, the Pope named David Talley – the 66 year-old Atlanta auxiliary desired for no shortage of open sees – to the southern Louisiana church as coadjutor to Bishop Ronald Herzog, who reaches the retirement age of 75 next April.
Vatican confirms authority of bishop kidnapped by Chinese officials
Vatican confirms authority of bishop abducted by Chinese officials : News Headlines | Catholic Culture: The Vatican has confirmed that Bishop Peter Shao Zhumin has become the Bishop of Wenzhou, following the death of Bishop Vincent Zhu Weifang.
Bishop Zhu died earlier this month, at the age of 90, after a long battle with cancer. Bishop Shao had already been named by the Holy See as coadjutor bishop, with the right of succession. However, Bishop Shao has not been recognized by the government-backed Patriotic Association.
Bishop Zhu died earlier this month, at the age of 90, after a long battle with cancer. Bishop Shao had already been named by the Holy See as coadjutor bishop, with the right of succession. However, Bishop Shao has not been recognized by the government-backed Patriotic Association.
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