The Persuasion Filter and Immigration | Scott Adams' Blog: President Trump has issued temporary immigration orders that ban citizens from several Muslim-majority countries from entering the United States. This is a good opportunity to test the Persuasion Filter against what you might call the Hitler Filter.
For new readers of this blog, my starting point is the understanding that human brains did not evolve to show us reality. We aren’t that smart. Instead, our brains create little movies in our heads, and yours can be completely different from mine. We see that situation now. Half the country thinks President Trump is well on his way to becoming a Hitler-like dictator. But many other Americans think Trump is an effective business person with good intentions. They can’t both be right.
Tuesday, January 31, 2017
Neil Gorsuch, “a worthy successor to Antonin Scalia”, gets Supreme Court nod
Neil Gorsuch, “a Worthy Successor to Scalia”, Gets Supreme Court Nod | ncregister.comDESMOND: President Donald Trump announced Tuesday evening the nomination of Judge Neil Gorsuch of the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals to fill the seat left vacant on the U.S. Supreme Court after the death of Justice Antonin Scalia.
Hannah Smith of the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty, a public interest group that has represented the Little Sisters of the Poor, Hobby Lobby and EWTN (the Register’s parent company) in their legal challenges to the Health and Human Services contraception mandate, praised the selection of Judge Gorsuch for the nation's highest court.
Hannah Smith of the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty, a public interest group that has represented the Little Sisters of the Poor, Hobby Lobby and EWTN (the Register’s parent company) in their legal challenges to the Health and Human Services contraception mandate, praised the selection of Judge Gorsuch for the nation's highest court.
What is the “Sin of Human Respect”?
What Is the “Sin of Human Respect”? - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: On one level “human respect” seems like a good thing. After all, we ought to respect, honor and appreciate one another. What then is meant by the “sin of human respect”? It is that sin wherein we fear man more than God; we are more concerned with what people think of us than what God thinks of us. This is an unholy, sinful fear, and is at the root of many of our sins, both of commission and of omission.
Refugees, immigrants and executive orders
Persons First: Refugees, Immigrants and Executive Orders | ncregister.comCHAPUT: At the heart of Catholic social teaching lie two principles: concern for the common good and respect for the individual human being. An example: Catholic prison ministry doesn’t dispute the need for punishment under the law to secure the safety of the public. But it also refuses to abandon the prisoner, affirms his continuing dignity and seeks his rehabilitation.
Another example: the annual March for Life. Hundreds of thousands of good people have marched on behalf of unborn children every January for more than four decades for two reasons: Permissive abortion poisons society as whole, and it does so by killing one developing child at a time.
Another example: the annual March for Life. Hundreds of thousands of good people have marched on behalf of unborn children every January for more than four decades for two reasons: Permissive abortion poisons society as whole, and it does so by killing one developing child at a time.
President Trump nominates Colorado judge Neil Gorsuch to U.S. Supreme Court
Students of Supreme Court candidate Neil Gorsuch at CU law school cite fairness, dedication to truth – The Denver Post: The shoulder of rural and scenic Lookout Road was lined Monday afternoon with news vans and national reporters hoping for a glimpse of a man on the speculated short list of those President Donald Trump may nominate for the Supreme Court vacancy.
Why Catholics uncomfortable with Amoris Laetitia aren't ‘dissenters’
Why Catholics uncomfortable with 'Amoris' aren't 'dissenters': There is a marriage metaphor used throughout the Bible to convey the truth and depth of God’s devotion to His people - His willingness to remain faithful in the face of our infidelity. First, God the Father, husband to Israel. Then Jesus, the Son, Bridegroom to His Church.
It’s rather astounding how frequently the analogy is employed.
This is a metaphor fashioned for our times, if ever there was one. Lifelong, sexually-exclusive marriage is a reflection of our relationship to God. He is faithful even when we don’t deserve it. It’s like a built-in evangelization tool for parents, no matter how imperfect the marriage.
It’s rather astounding how frequently the analogy is employed.
This is a metaphor fashioned for our times, if ever there was one. Lifelong, sexually-exclusive marriage is a reflection of our relationship to God. He is faithful even when we don’t deserve it. It’s like a built-in evangelization tool for parents, no matter how imperfect the marriage.
A new title for the Blessed Mother?
A New Title for the Blessed Mother? | ncregister.comDEFFNER: “Mary, the Immaculate Virgin of Nazareth, through her free and feminine ‘Yes,’ consented to the conception of [the] Divine Word in her womb by the power of the Holy Spirit, and thus mediated the ‘one mediator’ (1 Timothy 2:5) to the world, bringing salvation to the human race.”
So begins “The Role of Mary in Redemption,” a document of the Theological Commission of the International Marian Association (IMA) requesting that Pope Francis publicly acknowledge and honor Mary, the Mother of Jesus, as the “Co-Redemptrix with Jesus the Redeemer.”
This isn’t the first time the title has been used to describe Mary — St. John Paul II referred to her as “Co-Redemptrix” more than once. Nor is it the first time a request has been made for a papal statement on Marian co-redemption.
So begins “The Role of Mary in Redemption,” a document of the Theological Commission of the International Marian Association (IMA) requesting that Pope Francis publicly acknowledge and honor Mary, the Mother of Jesus, as the “Co-Redemptrix with Jesus the Redeemer.”
This isn’t the first time the title has been used to describe Mary — St. John Paul II referred to her as “Co-Redemptrix” more than once. Nor is it the first time a request has been made for a papal statement on Marian co-redemption.
“I’m Christian but not religious” is contrary to Scripture and Tradition
“I’m Christian but not religious” is contrary to scripture and tradition - Spotlight - Aleteia.org – Worldwide Catholic Network Sharing Faith Resources for those seeking Truth – Aleteia.orgNOBLE: Ever since my conversion back to the Church I have been observing a movement among young Christians who claim to love Jesus but reject “religion.”
I don’t think this movement is all bad.
Many millennial Christians who reject “religion” argue that the slight differences between Christian denominations really don’t matter in the end. And they are right; there is very little real difference among many of the Christian denominations that have cropped up over time since the Reformation. When I am in my home state of Oklahoma, I find it bordering on absurd how many different churches claim to be going back to Christianity’s roots.
I don’t think this movement is all bad.
Many millennial Christians who reject “religion” argue that the slight differences between Christian denominations really don’t matter in the end. And they are right; there is very little real difference among many of the Christian denominations that have cropped up over time since the Reformation. When I am in my home state of Oklahoma, I find it bordering on absurd how many different churches claim to be going back to Christianity’s roots.
Boy Scouts of America to admit “transgender boys”
Boy Scouts Will Admit Transgender Boys : The Two-Way : NPR: In a surprise announcement, the Boy Scouts of America said that it will begin accepting transgender boys who want to join its scouting programs.
The Scouts' policy change came in a written and video statement released by Chief Scout Executive Michael Surbaugh. He said that for more than a hundred years the Scouts used the information on an individual's birth certificate to determine a boy's eligibility to join its single gender programs.
"Communities and state laws are now interpreting gender identity differently than society did in the past," Surbaugh said, "and these new laws vary widely from state to state.
The Scouts' policy change came in a written and video statement released by Chief Scout Executive Michael Surbaugh. He said that for more than a hundred years the Scouts used the information on an individual's birth certificate to determine a boy's eligibility to join its single gender programs.
"Communities and state laws are now interpreting gender identity differently than society did in the past," Surbaugh said, "and these new laws vary widely from state to state.
New York Governor Andrew Cuomo: ‘Put abortion rights in New York constitution’
Governor: ‘Put abortion rights in New York constitution’ – CatholicHerald.co.uk: New York Governor Andrew Cuomo on Monday called for a state constitutional amendment to codify abortion rights should Roe vs Wade be overturned, the latest idea from Democrats eager to push back against the new administration of President Donald Trump.
Addressing hundreds of abortion-rights supporters rallying in Albany, Cuomo said New York must ensure that legal access to abortion services and birth control continues regardless of what Trump and other Washington Republicans do.
“Our rights are under attack in Washington,” Cuomo said at the event. “As they pull on our rights, we’re going to push back.”
Addressing hundreds of abortion-rights supporters rallying in Albany, Cuomo said New York must ensure that legal access to abortion services and birth control continues regardless of what Trump and other Washington Republicans do.
“Our rights are under attack in Washington,” Cuomo said at the event. “As they pull on our rights, we’re going to push back.”
Get lost in this 1 gigapixel photo inside the USAF Museum
Get Lost In This 1 Gigapexel Photo Inside the USAF Museum: Last summer the United States Air Force Museum officially opened the doors on their fourth hangar featuring some very exotic aircraft like the XB-70 Valkre Supersonic bomber. All the museum exhibits are open to the public free of charge, but if you can't make the trip to Dayton, Ohio, this massive composite image is the next best thing.
Why the virtue of vigilance should not be ignored
Why the Virtue of Vigilance should not be ignored. | Knowing Is DoingTORRE: Children are at rest when they know they’re being observed. This is particularly true when a child is tempted to do something they’ve been told not to thus they refrain from acting on their impulse, at least for that moment. Another point to consider is that children crave for the presence of their parents in the simplest ways i.e. eating at the dinner table, reading a book or playing at the park. The common thread in these examples is that the virtue of vigilance provides a simple and direct way of guiding a child toward God.
Archbishop Gomez of LA: Immigration enforcement without reform would be “human rights nightmare”
On the executive orders | AngelusGOMEZ: Last week was hard. It is sad to see it come to this — that the president of the United States must define, by an executive order, the precise meaning of the word “wall.”
“‘Wall’ shall mean a contiguous, physical wall or other similarly secure, contiguous and impassable physical barrier,” according to one of the three executive orders issued last week on immigrants and refugees.
The first thing to say is that these executive orders seem like they were put together too fast. Not enough thought seems to have been given to their legality or to explaining their rationale or to considering the practical consequences for millions of people here and across the globe.
“‘Wall’ shall mean a contiguous, physical wall or other similarly secure, contiguous and impassable physical barrier,” according to one of the three executive orders issued last week on immigrants and refugees.
The first thing to say is that these executive orders seem like they were put together too fast. Not enough thought seems to have been given to their legality or to explaining their rationale or to considering the practical consequences for millions of people here and across the globe.
Monday, January 30, 2017
A meditation on the brevity of our lives
A Meditation on the Brevity of Life, As Seen in a Video - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: My cousin, John Clem, died suddenly last week at the age of 52. It was likely a pulmonary embolism. The suddenness of his death shocked and deeply saddened many. He was dearly loved and was a great servant of God and man in the Charlottesville, Virginia area.
At the funeral today, my mind drifted back to a photo album my father once assembled not long before his death. In the frontispiece he inscribed a passage from Psalm 103...
At the funeral today, my mind drifted back to a photo album my father once assembled not long before his death. In the frontispiece he inscribed a passage from Psalm 103...
For Chinese Catholics, the triumph of hope over experience
The Triumph of Hope over Experience | University of St. Michael's CollegeMULRONEY: There is something about China — its historical and cultural riches, its amazing variety, its economic dynamism—that causes outsiders to suspend their disbelief about its current governance. We tend to see the China we want to see, a form of self-delusion abetted by China’s leaders. Although they are by no stretch of the imagination democrats, senior leaders do need to win support within the Communist Party, secure the docility of the “Old One Hundred Names” (China’s regular Joes), and keep foreigners—partners as well as adversaries—in line. The long rise to the top of the Chinese system involves impressive formation in the art of persuasion.
This actress had an abortion to get a role in a nun movie — then was saved by a real nun after a botched abortion
Actress Had Abortion to Get Role in Nun Movie, Then Was Saved by Real Nun After Botched Abortion: Biographer and former actress Patricia Bosworth has written a book about her years with the Actors Studio in New York City and working alongside acting icons such as Paul Newman and Marilyn Monroe.
In an interview with National Public Radio on Saturday that focused on the book, The Men in My Life: A Memoir of Life and Love in 1950s Manhattan, Bosworth spoke about her role as a nun in the 1959 film “A Nun’s Story” – a role she felt she could keep only if she had an abortion.
In an interview with National Public Radio on Saturday that focused on the book, The Men in My Life: A Memoir of Life and Love in 1950s Manhattan, Bosworth spoke about her role as a nun in the 1959 film “A Nun’s Story” – a role she felt she could keep only if she had an abortion.
How modernity diminishes the human person
How Modernity Diminishes the Human Person - The Imaginative ConservativeSTANCIU: With the publication of the book The Meaning of Human Existence by Edward Wilson, the preeminent entomologist and the founder of sociobiology, I learned that at least one person on the planet still believes in the possibility of a glorious future for humankind. Undaunted by the century of death, unshaken by Hiroshima, the Holocaust, and the Gulag, and perhaps mesmerized by the ever-rising arc of science and the abundant fruits of a market-driven technology, Dr. Wilson claims that we humans can “turn Earth into a paradise both for ourselves and for the biosphere that gave us birth.”
What's the best National Park in each state? Here's a list to start the discussion/argument...
List of the Best National Park in Every State | Travel Leisure: From golden sand dunes to hardwood forests, from historic sites and iconic monuments to the winding trails that crisscross the United States, our National Park Service has ensured that every state in the nation has at least a sliver (or a generous wedge) of their most cherished places. Those in search of solitude will find it while wandering deep into the glaciated peaks and jungles of Olympic National Park, while rock climbers from around the world will challenge themselves on one of many world-class routes up the 3,000-feet of vertical on El Capitan in Yosemite. History buffs and those curious about the country’s past walk the battlefields of Gettysburg, which shaped the United States into the nation as we know it.
Tornielli says Holy See and SSPX are “close” to personal prelature
Holy See and SSPX “close” to Personal Prelature… no, really! | Fr. Z's BlogZUHLSDORF: The Secretary of Ecclesia Dei Pozzo: “We are working on polishing the juridical form”
“Right now we are working on the polishing of certain aspects of the canonical framework, which would be a Personal Prelature“. Archbishop Guido Pozzo, Secretary of the Commission “Ecclesia Dei”, entrusted with the dialogue with the Fraternity of St. Pius X, confirmed to Vatican Insider that the stage of full communion with the Lefebvrians is getting closer. The goal of the accord is by now in sight, even if more time is necessary.
“Right now we are working on the polishing of certain aspects of the canonical framework, which would be a Personal Prelature“. Archbishop Guido Pozzo, Secretary of the Commission “Ecclesia Dei”, entrusted with the dialogue with the Fraternity of St. Pius X, confirmed to Vatican Insider that the stage of full communion with the Lefebvrians is getting closer. The goal of the accord is by now in sight, even if more time is necessary.
Pope Francis condemns shooting at Quebec mosque
Pope Francis condemns shooting at Quebec mosque :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): Pope Francis met Monday with Cardinal Gérald Lacroix of Quebec, conveying his sorrow for the victims of a shooting the night before in a mosque in Quebec City. He condemned the attack, saying Christians and Muslims should unite in prayer over the tragedy.
According to a Vatican communique, Pope Francis met with Cardinal Lacroix Jan. 30 following his morning Mass in the chapel of Casa Santa Marta.
According to a Vatican communique, Pope Francis met with Cardinal Lacroix Jan. 30 following his morning Mass in the chapel of Casa Santa Marta.
Meet the people who pick up when you call customer service
Meet the People Who Pick Up When You Call Customer Service | WIRED: To you, A customer service rep is a voice on the phone, someone to sort out a billing error or missed delivery. To José Sarmento Matos, it’s a person, and he wants you to meet them. “We tend to forget that they’re people,” he says. “They’re making money to pay their bills and take care of their kids and their parents: they have feelings and they have lives.”
Pope Francis and the Order of Malta: A key to understanding this pontificate?
MondayVatican – Vatican � Pope Francis and the Order of Malta: A Key to Understanding this Pontificate? | MondayVaticanGAGLIARDUCCI: Beyond the issues to be clarified, the story that involved the Order of Malta and that brought about the resignation of the Grand Master at the Pope’s request might provide a formidable key to understanding Pope Francis’s pontificate. Pope Francis’s ideas, choices and perceptions come almost directly from his personal history. This point should not be underestimated, also because this personal history plays a part in a transition of pontificates that did not take place peacefully.
What a train wreck this turned out to be...
A weekend of #MuslimBan: Did it help for press to ignore key contents of executive order? — GetReligionMATTINGLY: What a train wreck. There is really no way to dig into the thousands, maybe millions, of words that the mainstream press poured out over the weekend in coverage of President Donald Trump's rushed, flawed executive order creating a temporary ban on most refugees from lands racked by conflicts with radicalized forms of Islam.
My main question, in this post, does not concern the merits of order or the process that created it. That's clearly part of the train wreck and, as someone who was openly #NeverTrump (and #NeverHillary), I think mainstream reporters should go after mess that with the same fervor they dedicated to the humanitarian impact of the previous administration's policies in Syria, Iraq, etc. We need to know who decided to rollout such a important executive order in such a slapdash, incompetent fashion – especially whatever it did or didn't say about people in transit or those with green cards.
My main question, in this post, does not concern the merits of order or the process that created it. That's clearly part of the train wreck and, as someone who was openly #NeverTrump (and #NeverHillary), I think mainstream reporters should go after mess that with the same fervor they dedicated to the humanitarian impact of the previous administration's policies in Syria, Iraq, etc. We need to know who decided to rollout such a important executive order in such a slapdash, incompetent fashion – especially whatever it did or didn't say about people in transit or those with green cards.
National Review editorial: "U.S. needs to bolster immigration policies ... but Trump has failed abjectly in the prudential considerations"
Trump Refugee Order: Right Substance, Wrong Rollout | National Review: On Friday, Donald Trump signed an executive order halting admission of refugees for 120 days and halting travel from seven majority-Muslim countries — Iraq, Iran, Syria, Yemen, Sudan, Libya, and Somalia — for 90 days while the federal government undertakes a review of admission procedures. He has also imposed an annual cap of 50,000 refugees. The instant backlash, which has culminated in thousands of protesters creating chaos at the nation’s airports, is the result more of knee-jerk emotion than a sober assessment of Trump’s policy.
Cardinal Wuerl of Washington, DC: Reflections on the White House Executive Order
Reflections on White House Executive Order - Seek First the Kingdom: Catholic Blog by Cardinal Donald Wuerl - Archdiocese of Washington, DC Seek First the Kingdom: Catholic Blog by Cardinal Donald Wuerl – Archdiocese of Washington, DCWUERL: Today, I write to you regarding the recent White House executive order which suspended entry into the country of foreign nationals from Syria, Iraq, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia, and Yemen, for 120 days, reduced the number of refugees to be admitted to the United States, indefinitely suspended the resettlement of Syrian refugees, and calls for heightened review procedures for these peoples. A version of the order can be read here.
100 questions Jesus asked and you should answer
100 Questions Jesus Asked and You Should Answer - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: One of the bigger mistakes one can make is to read Scripture as a spectator, treating it as merely a collection of stories and events that took place thousands of years ago. While these are historical accounts, they are much more than that.
Truth be told, these ancient stories are our stories. We are in the narrative. We are Abraham, Sarah, Moses, Deborah, Jeremiah, Ruth, Peter, Paul, Magdalene, Mother Mary, and, if we are prepared to accept it, Jesus. We cannot simply read about what others said or did. For what Peter and Magdalene and others did, we do. Peter denied and ran; so do we. Magdalene loved and never gave up; so should we. Magdalene had a sinful past and a promising future; so do we. Peter was passionate and had a temper; so do we. But Peter also loved the Lord and ultimately gave his life for the Him; so can we. Jesus suffered and died but rose again and ascended to glory; so have we and so will we.
Truth be told, these ancient stories are our stories. We are in the narrative. We are Abraham, Sarah, Moses, Deborah, Jeremiah, Ruth, Peter, Paul, Magdalene, Mother Mary, and, if we are prepared to accept it, Jesus. We cannot simply read about what others said or did. For what Peter and Magdalene and others did, we do. Peter denied and ran; so do we. Magdalene loved and never gave up; so should we. Magdalene had a sinful past and a promising future; so do we. Peter was passionate and had a temper; so do we. But Peter also loved the Lord and ultimately gave his life for the Him; so can we. Jesus suffered and died but rose again and ascended to glory; so have we and so will we.
Cardinal Tobin of Newark: Statement on Executive Actions on Immigration
Statement of Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R., On Wednesday’s Executive Actions on Immigration | Archdiocese of NewarkJOSEPHTOBIN: I understand the desire for every American to be assured of safe borders and freedom from terrorism. �The federal government should continue a prudent policy aimed at protecting citizens.�
I also understand and heed the call of God, who through Moses told the people of Israel: “You shall not oppress an alien; you well know how it feels to be an alien, since you were once aliens yourselves in the land of Egypt” (Ex 23:9). �Jesus asks His disciples to go further, calling on us to recognize Him in the stranger: “Whatsoever you did to the least of my brothers, you did to me” (Mt. 25:40).
I also understand and heed the call of God, who through Moses told the people of Israel: “You shall not oppress an alien; you well know how it feels to be an alien, since you were once aliens yourselves in the land of Egypt” (Ex 23:9). �Jesus asks His disciples to go further, calling on us to recognize Him in the stranger: “Whatsoever you did to the least of my brothers, you did to me” (Mt. 25:40).
Hackers hack hotel, demand Bitcoin ransom as guests locked out of rooms
Hotel ransomed by hackers as guests locked out of rooms - The Local: One of Europe's top hotels has admitted they had to pay thousands in Bitcoin ransom to cybercriminals who managed to hack their electronic key system, locking hundreds of guests out of their rooms until the money was paid.
Sunday, January 29, 2017
Cardinal Cupich of Chicago: Statement on the Executive Order on Refugees and Migrants
Statement -- Statement of Cardinal Blase J. Cupich, Archbishop of Chicago, on the Executive Order on Refugees and Migrants - Statements - Archdiocese of ChicagoCUPICH: This weekend proved to be a dark moment in U.S. history. The executive order to turn away refugees and to close our nation to those, particularly Muslims, fleeing violence, oppression and persecution is contrary to both Catholic and American values. Have we not repeated the disastrous decisions of those in the past who turned away other people fleeing violence, leaving certain ethnicities and religions marginalized and excluded? We Catholics know that history well, for, like others, we have been on the other side of such decisions.
Pope's Sunday Angelus: Spiritual poverty is a cure to polemics
Pope Francis: spiritual poverty is a cure to polemics :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): On Sunday Pope Francis said being poor in spirit doesn’t necessarily mean giving things up, but instead is rooted in humility and openness to others – an attitude capable of overcoming polemics and division, and leading to greater fraternity.
“The poor in spirit is the Christian who doesn’t rely on oneself, on material riches, who doesn’t insist on their own opinions, but listens with respect and willingly defers to others’ decisions,” the Pope said Jan. 29.
“The poor in spirit is the Christian who doesn’t rely on oneself, on material riches, who doesn’t insist on their own opinions, but listens with respect and willingly defers to others’ decisions,” the Pope said Jan. 29.
Pope's Sunday Angelus: Humility and trust in God are essential Christian virtues
Pope: humility and trust in God are essential Christian virtues - Vatican Radio: Pope Francis on Sunday dedicated his catechesis to the Gospel reading of the day reflecting on the Beatitudes recounted in the Sermon on the Mount.
He was addressing the faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square for the recitation of the Angelus prayer.
The Gospel of Matthew, Francis said, is the keystone of the New Testament. It tells of how Jesus manifested God’s will to show man the path to happiness.
He said this message was already contained in the words of the prophets who highlighted God’s liberating closeness to the poor and the oppressed.
But Jesus, he said, points to a different path which exhorts us all to trust in God as Christian happiness is to be found in the promise of salvation.
He was addressing the faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square for the recitation of the Angelus prayer.
The Gospel of Matthew, Francis said, is the keystone of the New Testament. It tells of how Jesus manifested God’s will to show man the path to happiness.
He said this message was already contained in the words of the prophets who highlighted God’s liberating closeness to the poor and the oppressed.
But Jesus, he said, points to a different path which exhorts us all to trust in God as Christian happiness is to be found in the promise of salvation.
Saturday, January 28, 2017
Officer Steven McDonald was a prophet of mercy for our times
Officer McDonald, Patron Saint of Mercy in Our Times | AngelusLOPEZ: For many New Yorkers, a beloved neighbor and true hero of mercy died this month. “New York’s Finest” took on new meaning when the world came to know Police Officer Steven McDonald, who was shot by a teenager in Central Park in the summer of 1986, paralyzing him from the neck down.
“He became a living, breathing prophet of reconciliation and charity,” is how Cardinal Timothy Dolan described McDonald’s witness of forgiveness on his radio show. He would later even float the “s”-word about him -- saint. I thought immediately of a line Los Angeles Archbishop José Gomez has used to refer to Dorothy Day: “I don’t know if she is a saint but she makes me want to be one.” That captures the Steven McDonald effect.
“He became a living, breathing prophet of reconciliation and charity,” is how Cardinal Timothy Dolan described McDonald’s witness of forgiveness on his radio show. He would later even float the “s”-word about him -- saint. I thought immediately of a line Los Angeles Archbishop José Gomez has used to refer to Dorothy Day: “I don’t know if she is a saint but she makes me want to be one.” That captures the Steven McDonald effect.
How Christianity civilized mankind
How Christianity Civilized Mankind - The Imaginative ConservativeFROHNEN: Anyone who knows anything about the Judeo-Christian tradition (an increasingly small group, I know), is aware that the Hebrew law “an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth” was intended to limit the bloodthirsty drive for vengeance. As Saint Augustine observed, “For who will of his own accord be satisfied with a vengeance equal to the injury? Do we not see men, only slightly hurt, eager for slaughter, thirsting for blood, as if they could never make their enemy suffer enough?” Augustine explained that the precept against excess vengeance instituted a principle of compensation, which “instead of being a brand to kindle a fire that was quenched, was rather a covering to prevent the fire already kindled from spreading.”
Picture this! A homily for the 4th Sunday of the Year
Picture This! A Homily for the 4th Sunday of the Year - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: The Gospel passage on the Beatitudes is one of the most familiar. Yet the Beatitudes are difficult to understand because many of them are paradoxical. We do not usually refer to the poor as blessed, but rather the well-off; we do not typically call those who mourn blessed, but rather the joyful.
The word “beatitude” itself means “supreme blessedness.”
The word “beatitude” itself means “supreme blessedness.”
Fascinating time-lapse video shows massive crowd at 2017 March for Life
Awesome time-lapse video shows massive crowd at 2017 March for Life | The Pulse | LifeSite: The entire 2017 March for Life can be seen in a time-lapse video taken from the vantage point of a high roof top. The video shows the march from beginning to end. Literally hundreds of thousands of marchers can be seen walking along the route in the 88 second video.
It’s absolutely fascinating.
It’s absolutely fascinating.
7 answers to the “pro-lifers are just pro-birth” argument
Seven Answers to the “Pro-Lifers are just Pro-Birth” Argument – Shameless PoperyHESCHMEYER: One of the most common ad hominem arguments against the pro-life movement is that pro-life people only really care about the unborn, and don’t care what happens after birth (or about the conditions into which the child will be born).
Often, this argument goes hand-in-glove with the argument that if pro-lifers really want to be pro-life, they have to support giving more money to such-and-such a social program, or hand out free condoms, or endorse some other politically-liberal policy. Other times, the argument is that pro-lifers need to personally adopt kids, or else be content to let them get aborted.
Often, this argument goes hand-in-glove with the argument that if pro-lifers really want to be pro-life, they have to support giving more money to such-and-such a social program, or hand out free condoms, or endorse some other politically-liberal policy. Other times, the argument is that pro-lifers need to personally adopt kids, or else be content to let them get aborted.
Order of Malta votes in favor of accepting Festing’s resignation
Order of Malta Votes in Favor of Accepting Festing’s Resignation | ncregister.comPENTIN: The Order of Malta’s Sovereign Council voted this afternoon to accept Grand Master Fra’ Matthew Festing’s resignation, with just a small number members voting against.
The Register understands from sources inside the Order that just a “handful” of members voted to reject the resignation, and that the Holy See applied “very strong and direct pressure” on the Sovereign Council to accept Fra’ Festing stepping down as it was unsure that a majority would vote in favor.
In a statement, the Order said Fra’ Ludwig Hoffmann von Rumerstein, who is reputed to be very frail, now assumes the office of Lieutenant ad interim, and will “remain the Order of Malta’s head until the election of the successor of the Grand Master.” That vote is expected to take place soon.
The Register understands from sources inside the Order that just a “handful” of members voted to reject the resignation, and that the Holy See applied “very strong and direct pressure” on the Sovereign Council to accept Fra’ Festing stepping down as it was unsure that a majority would vote in favor.
In a statement, the Order said Fra’ Ludwig Hoffmann von Rumerstein, who is reputed to be very frail, now assumes the office of Lieutenant ad interim, and will “remain the Order of Malta’s head until the election of the successor of the Grand Master.” That vote is expected to take place soon.
Meet the new head of Alliance Defending Freedom
Meet the new head of Alliance Defending Freedom :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): For Michael P. Farris, the new head of Alliance Defending Freedom, educating the general American public on the rich history of religious liberty in the U.S. is vital.
As a nation, he told CNA, “I think we have a very limited understanding of religious freedom.”
Religious liberty is the foundation for free speech, free press, and free assembly, he continued. Protections for many of the key freedoms enshrined in the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution were secured through the battle for religious freedom.
As a nation, he told CNA, “I think we have a very limited understanding of religious freedom.”
Religious liberty is the foundation for free speech, free press, and free assembly, he continued. Protections for many of the key freedoms enshrined in the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution were secured through the battle for religious freedom.
Bishop Manuel Cruz of Newark assaulted during Mass in Newark Cathedral
Auxiliary Catholic Bishop of Newark Assaulted During Mass in Cathedral - Newark NJ News - TAPinto: A day meant to venerate a hero of Newark's Latino community ended in shock and horror when an auxiliary bishop of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Newark was punched in the face during Mass at Newark's Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart. The Most Reverend Manuel A. Cruz, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Newark, was offering opening prayers at a Saturday afternoon service commemorating the life of baseball great Roberto Clemente, remembered by Latinos in Newark, especially those from his native Puerto Rico, for his tragic death in a plane crash en route to deliver aid to earthquake victims in Nicaragua in 1972.
What professors are writing, no one is reading...
What Professors Are Writing... No One Is Reading - The Imaginative Conservative: Professors usually spend about three-six months (sometimes longer) researching and writing in order to submit a twenty-five-page article to an academic journal. And most experience a twinge of excitement when, months later, they open a letter informing them that their article has been accepted for publication, and will therefore be read by ... an average of ten people.
How to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Our Lady of Fatima
How to Celebrate the Fatima Centennial – WAF USA – World Apostolate of Fatima U.S.A.FOLEY: This is a big year for Fatima, the centenary of Our Lady’s apparitions. A century is a long time, and it might seem as though society has gone downhill to such an extent that, even if people do start to pay more attention to Fatima today, the battle is too far gone to be won.
But that would be the wrong attitude to take, since in reality the war, however long it takes, has already been won. When Our Lady said at Fatima, “In the end, my Immaculate Heart will triumph … and a period of peace will be granted to the world,” she meant it!
But that would be the wrong attitude to take, since in reality the war, however long it takes, has already been won. When Our Lady said at Fatima, “In the end, my Immaculate Heart will triumph … and a period of peace will be granted to the world,” she meant it!
Guadalupe, Fatima, and Catholic culture
Guadalupe, Fatima, And Catholic Culture�|�The Wanderer NewspaperFOLEY: The Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe falls on December 12, and reminds us of the important series of apparitions to Juan Diego in Mexico, in 1531. The Blessed Virgin asked him to go to the local bishop, Bishop Zumárraga, with a request that a ‘little house’ be built for her.
After trying unsuccessfully to see the bishop, Juan Diego eventually returned to him with his cactus fiber outer garment, or tilma, filled with out-of-season flowers, which the beautiful lady had pointed out to him. When he came into the presence of the bishop, Juan Diego opened the tilma and let the flowers fall to the floor.
But what captivated the bishop and his entourage was the miraculous Image of Guadalupe on the Tilma, which has been preserved now in Mexico for nearly five centuries, although such fiber garments usually disintegrate within twenty years.
The consequences of the apparitions at Guadalupe were truly astounding. One of the early Franciscan Fathers, Toribio de Benavente, known as Motolinia or the “poor little one,” claimed as early as 1537, only six years after Guadalupe, that nine million Aztecs had been baptized.
After trying unsuccessfully to see the bishop, Juan Diego eventually returned to him with his cactus fiber outer garment, or tilma, filled with out-of-season flowers, which the beautiful lady had pointed out to him. When he came into the presence of the bishop, Juan Diego opened the tilma and let the flowers fall to the floor.
But what captivated the bishop and his entourage was the miraculous Image of Guadalupe on the Tilma, which has been preserved now in Mexico for nearly five centuries, although such fiber garments usually disintegrate within twenty years.
The consequences of the apparitions at Guadalupe were truly astounding. One of the early Franciscan Fathers, Toribio de Benavente, known as Motolinia or the “poor little one,” claimed as early as 1537, only six years after Guadalupe, that nine million Aztecs had been baptized.
The Death Star's trench isn't where you thought it was
The Death Star's Trench Isn't Where You Thought It Was: The Death Star's fatal flaw is the focus of both A New Hope and Rogue One, a detail so insignificant that the overlords who built it ignored any chance that it would come back to haunt them. But visual effects artist Todd Vaziri just found some crucial information about the channel Luke so deftly flies through. It isn't the Death Star's obvious equator. It's a longitudinal line, going north-south.
The Death Star's equatorial line is one of its most defining features, along the divot out of which the planet-busting lasers fly. It draws your eyes to it, and it looks like the perfect place to zip through with your X-Wing.
The Death Star's equatorial line is one of its most defining features, along the divot out of which the planet-busting lasers fly. It draws your eyes to it, and it looks like the perfect place to zip through with your X-Wing.
The best signs spotted at the March for Life 2017
The Best Signs Spotted at the March for Life 2017! | ChurchPOP: The National Mall was filled with energetic young people for the annual pro-life March for Life in Washington D.C. today.
This year’s march made history, with Vice President Mike Pence being the first sitting vice president to speak at the event. Other speakers included Senior Council to President Trump Kellyanne Conway, Cardinal Timothy Dolan of New York, NFL Raven’s tight end Benjamin Watson, and others.
But the most encouraging sight to see was all of the young people joyfully marching for the pro-life cause, many of whom proudly displayed great pro-life signs.
This year’s march made history, with Vice President Mike Pence being the first sitting vice president to speak at the event. Other speakers included Senior Council to President Trump Kellyanne Conway, Cardinal Timothy Dolan of New York, NFL Raven’s tight end Benjamin Watson, and others.
But the most encouraging sight to see was all of the young people joyfully marching for the pro-life cause, many of whom proudly displayed great pro-life signs.
Friday, January 27, 2017
Vice President Pence at March for Life: ‘Life is winning in America’
Vice President Pence at March for Life: ‘Life Is Winning in America’ | ncregister.com: U.S. Vice President Mike Pence urged pro-lifers to win over hearts with gentleness and compassion at the 2017 March for Life on Friday.
“Life is winning in America,” he said, “and today is a celebration of that progress, the progress that we’ve made in that cause.”
“So I urge you to press on,” Pence told the audience gathered on the National Mall for the rally, imploring them, “As it is written, let your gentleness be evident to all.”
“Let this movement be known for love, not anger,” he said. “Let it be known for compassion, not confrontation.”
The pro-life movement can win the hearts and minds of young people “if our hearts first break for young mothers and their unborn children and if we — each of us — do all we can to meet them where they are with generosity, not judgment.”
“Life is winning in America,” he said, “and today is a celebration of that progress, the progress that we’ve made in that cause.”
“So I urge you to press on,” Pence told the audience gathered on the National Mall for the rally, imploring them, “As it is written, let your gentleness be evident to all.”
“Let this movement be known for love, not anger,” he said. “Let it be known for compassion, not confrontation.”
The pro-life movement can win the hearts and minds of young people “if our hearts first break for young mothers and their unborn children and if we — each of us — do all we can to meet them where they are with generosity, not judgment.”
This redesigned airplane row will make you want the middle seat
This Redesigned Airplane Row Will Make You Want The Middle Seat | Co.Design | business design: No one wants the middle seat on an airplane. But the Colorado-based startup Molon Labe Designs may change your mind with an airline seat row that offers significantly more space for flyers—even those in the middle seat. It's called the Side-Slip Seat.
Designed for flights three hours and under, each row of seats features a staggered design. The middle seat is set slightly lower and behind the aisle and window seats, a discrepancy that makes the backrest of the middle seat just under three inches wider than the standard 18 inches. This is an easy sell for flyers—even though there's no extra legroom (that's controlled by the airline), the middle seat is more spacious, and the staggered design means that there's no need to fight over elbow room.
Designed for flights three hours and under, each row of seats features a staggered design. The middle seat is set slightly lower and behind the aisle and window seats, a discrepancy that makes the backrest of the middle seat just under three inches wider than the standard 18 inches. This is an easy sell for flyers—even though there's no extra legroom (that's controlled by the airline), the middle seat is more spacious, and the staggered design means that there's no need to fight over elbow room.
ABC News has edited out the March for Life comments in the Trump interview
Just listen for a while: What Spayd said @NYTimes. OK, even what Bannon said ... — GetReligionMATTINGLY: For the past several days, I have been in transit from New York to Baltimore to Washington, D.C., and finally home – all while getting sick as a dog, as we would say in East Tennessee. So I confess that I'm a bit out of touch, when it comes to what's been happening in news and social media.
But let me try to pull things together from my fevered point of view. It seems the hot media items have something to do with President Donald Trump's bluster-maestro Stephen K. Bannon saying something about America's elite media needing to "shut up" and/or do some listening. In fact, if you search for "Bannon," "mouth" and "shut" right now on Google News you get a mere 238,000 hits.
But let me try to pull things together from my fevered point of view. It seems the hot media items have something to do with President Donald Trump's bluster-maestro Stephen K. Bannon saying something about America's elite media needing to "shut up" and/or do some listening. In fact, if you search for "Bannon," "mouth" and "shut" right now on Google News you get a mere 238,000 hits.
Is this the world's oldest Mozart recording?
Is This The World’s Oldest Mozart Recording? - The Imaginative Conservative: In a climate controlled section in the basement of Statsbiblioteket, you can find a couple of old solid wooden boxes. These boxes used to contain some of the world’s oldest sound recordings on wax cylinders, called the “Ruben collection.” One of the cylinders contains what might be the oldest existing Mozart recording in the world: the famous Danish opera bass-bariton Peter Schram (1819-1895) sings Leporello’s arias from Mozart’s opera Don Giovanni.
The wax cylinders are very fragile, their physical decay is obvious, and in 2007 the cylinders were digitised and subsequently transferred to special acid free boxes. Fortunately the digitisation team at Statsbiblioteket in collaboration with Franz Lechleitner from Phonogrammarchiv in Austria succeeded in digitising most of the cylinders despite the decay.
The wax cylinders are very fragile, their physical decay is obvious, and in 2007 the cylinders were digitised and subsequently transferred to special acid free boxes. Fortunately the digitisation team at Statsbiblioteket in collaboration with Franz Lechleitner from Phonogrammarchiv in Austria succeeded in digitising most of the cylinders despite the decay.
The complete guide to what every man should keep in his car
The Complete Guide to What Every Man Should Keep in His Car | The Art of Manliness: When I was growing up, I noticed that my father kept his car well-stocked with supplies. A lot of the equipment was for his job busting poachers as a game warden, but most of the things were for emergency situations that could happen to anyone. And there were plenty of times when my dad was able to put those supplies to work.
Be it a maintenance issue or a snowstorm, keeping the following items in your vehicle can save you time and discomfort, and perhaps even your very life, should an emergency arise.
Be it a maintenance issue or a snowstorm, keeping the following items in your vehicle can save you time and discomfort, and perhaps even your very life, should an emergency arise.
Pope Francis has ordered a review of the new Mass translation
Pope Francis has ordered a review of the new Mass translation | America Magazine: Pope Francis has ordered a review of “Liturgiam Authenticam,” the controversial decree behind the most recent translations of liturgical texts from Latin into English and other languages. The commission, established by the pope just before Christmas, is also tasked with examining what level of decentralization is desirable in the church on matters such as this.
The mixed commission includes bishops from all the continents. Significantly, Pope Francis appointed Archbishop Arthur Roche, the secretary of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments, to be its president. The English-born archbishop is the number two official at the congregation; he has more experience in the liturgical field and a more open approach to liturgical questions than its prefect, Cardinal Robert Sarah.
The mixed commission includes bishops from all the continents. Significantly, Pope Francis appointed Archbishop Arthur Roche, the secretary of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments, to be its president. The English-born archbishop is the number two official at the congregation; he has more experience in the liturgical field and a more open approach to liturgical questions than its prefect, Cardinal Robert Sarah.
Fr. John Hardon may be on his way to canonization
Fr. John Hardon May Be on His Way to Canonization | ncregister.comGRAVES: Fr. John Hardon (1914-2000) was an erudite and orthodox Jesuit of the old school. Although he often found himself at odds with many in his own order, Father was in great demand as a retreat master and conference leader, and his voluminous writings developed a huge following, even among popes and cardinals.
Father was a diminutive man with a soft voice, but nonetheless possessed a gifted intellect nourished by a devout prayer life. He was a tireless worker who devoted his talents to promoting authentic Catholic catechesis, Eucharistic adoration and renewal of religious life in a post-Vatican II era of confusion in the Church and a significant decline of many established religious communities, including his own.
Father was a diminutive man with a soft voice, but nonetheless possessed a gifted intellect nourished by a devout prayer life. He was a tireless worker who devoted his talents to promoting authentic Catholic catechesis, Eucharistic adoration and renewal of religious life in a post-Vatican II era of confusion in the Church and a significant decline of many established religious communities, including his own.
The March for Life in Year 44
The March for Life in Year 44 | ncregister.comCHAPUT: Since Inauguration Day, critics of Donald Trump have marched, rioted, verbally abused and in some cases viciously assaulted their opponents on a scale previously unseen.
Some of the anger is understandable. As I said repeatedly last fall, Mr. Trump’s words and behavior during the presidential campaign, on immigration and other issues, were deeply troubling. But in one of our history’s darker ironies, Mr. Trump benefited from an opposing candidate who had her own equally, though different, ugly and disqualifying baggage.
Some of the anger is understandable. As I said repeatedly last fall, Mr. Trump’s words and behavior during the presidential campaign, on immigration and other issues, were deeply troubling. But in one of our history’s darker ironies, Mr. Trump benefited from an opposing candidate who had her own equally, though different, ugly and disqualifying baggage.
How to be a Superman dad in a Kryptonite world
How To Be A Superman Dad In A Kryptonite WorldCLARK: I began my first book, Who’s Got You, with a story about Superman and how God helps us to be Superman in the eyes of our children.
It’s worth revisiting that motif, but it’s also worth considering Superman’s least favorite element: Kryptonite. For us Catholic husbands and fathers, there’s no doubt it’s a Kryptonite World; the secret is finding out what your personal Kryptonite is. And it seems that for us Catholic husbands and fathers, Kryptonite often comes in three forms.
It’s worth revisiting that motif, but it’s also worth considering Superman’s least favorite element: Kryptonite. For us Catholic husbands and fathers, there’s no doubt it’s a Kryptonite World; the secret is finding out what your personal Kryptonite is. And it seems that for us Catholic husbands and fathers, Kryptonite often comes in three forms.
March for Life 2017: Make abortion banned again
March for Life 2017: Make Abortion Banned AgainFITZPATRICK: The American battle for life has marched doggedly over the decades. Nearly a century ago, Margaret Sanger founded her league of birth-control clinics to promote women’s decisions to dictate their fertility and further the science of eugenics. This movement opened the door to the acceptance of abortion and illegal procedures accelerated in the 1930’s. By the 1960’s, Planned Parenthood was born and, in 1973, the United States Supreme Court commenced a national moral tailspin with Roe v Wade that put a child’s life and constitutional rights at the mercy of the mother’s decision. The inauguration of the 45th president came just before the 44th anniversary of Roe v Wade. For 44 years, millions of unborn Americans have been legally murdered in their mothers’ wombs. For 44 years, millions of pro-life Americans have marched in Washington D.C. in peaceful protest and as a prayerful call that the law be reversed to protect life instead of to destroy life. With a new president, comes new hope—even if that president is Donald Trump—and the mall marchers of 2017 may well hope for some shift in the wind.
If there is an Antichrist, what about an Antimary?
If There is an Antichrist, What About an Antimary? | ncregister.comGRESS: The treatment of motherhood is one of the first signs that we are dealing with a new movement. Mothers (both spiritual and biological) are a natural icon of Mary – to help others know who Mary is by their generosity, patience, compassion, peace, intuition, and ability to nurture souls. Mary’s love (and the love of mothers) offers one of the best images of what God’s love is like – unconditional, healing, and deeply personal.
The last few decades have witnessed the subtle erasing of the Marian icon in real women. First through the pill, then the advent of abortion, motherhood has been on the chopping block. Motherhood has become dispensable, to that point that today the broader culture doesn’t bat an eye when a child is adopted by two men.
The last few decades have witnessed the subtle erasing of the Marian icon in real women. First through the pill, then the advent of abortion, motherhood has been on the chopping block. Motherhood has become dispensable, to that point that today the broader culture doesn’t bat an eye when a child is adopted by two men.
While Notre Dame and CUA support the March for Life, Georgetown doesn't — but still they march
HOWELL: Why We March: Today, the 44th annual March for Life winds its way through Washington, D.C., starting at the Washington Monument and heading toward the steps of the Supreme Court.
We, the Georgetown University Knights of Columbus, attend the March every year in accordance with our desire to promote a culture of life on campus and around the nation. We oppose euthanasia, the death penalty and particularly abortion because of our belief in the supreme innocence of its victims.
We march because we believe each individual human being is created uniquely and lovingly by God. The act of creation does not occur at birth, but rather at conception, when the process of life begins. This belief is not only the official position of the Knights, but that of the Catholic Church and, ostensibly, the university as well.
We, the Georgetown University Knights of Columbus, attend the March every year in accordance with our desire to promote a culture of life on campus and around the nation. We oppose euthanasia, the death penalty and particularly abortion because of our belief in the supreme innocence of its victims.
We march because we believe each individual human being is created uniquely and lovingly by God. The act of creation does not occur at birth, but rather at conception, when the process of life begins. This belief is not only the official position of the Knights, but that of the Catholic Church and, ostensibly, the university as well.
March for Life 2017
WATCH LIVE: March for Life 2017 | ncregister.com: This year's March for Life marks the 44th anniversary of the Roe v. Wade decision.
Thursday, January 26, 2017
An Order of Malta churchquake
An Order of Malta Church Shake | Catholic World Report - Global Church news and viewsOLSON: Who knew that 2017 could be the Year of Malta? And yet, in less than a month's time, the little island—122 square miles in size and populated by less than 450,000—located some 50 miles south of Italy has been involved in two of the biggest stories of the year.
First there was the pastoral letter signed January 8th by the Archbishop of Malta, Charles J. Scicluna, and the Bishop of Gozo, Mario Grech, titled "Criteria for the Application of Chapter VIII of Amoris Laetitia". The gist of that letter, which was published on pages 7 and 8 of the January 14th edition of L'Osservatore Romano, is that divorced-and-remarried Catholics who are in "complex situations" and face "attenuating circumstances", who have undergone a process of "discernment", and yet are unable to live "as brother and sister" are able to receive both Absolution and Holy Communion if they "are at peace with God" (pars. 7-9; for further analysis, see Dr. Edward Peters' essay "The Maltese Disaster" and my editorial titled "A Malta Laetitia").
First there was the pastoral letter signed January 8th by the Archbishop of Malta, Charles J. Scicluna, and the Bishop of Gozo, Mario Grech, titled "Criteria for the Application of Chapter VIII of Amoris Laetitia". The gist of that letter, which was published on pages 7 and 8 of the January 14th edition of L'Osservatore Romano, is that divorced-and-remarried Catholics who are in "complex situations" and face "attenuating circumstances", who have undergone a process of "discernment", and yet are unable to live "as brother and sister" are able to receive both Absolution and Holy Communion if they "are at peace with God" (pars. 7-9; for further analysis, see Dr. Edward Peters' essay "The Maltese Disaster" and my editorial titled "A Malta Laetitia").
Millions of girls in India are missing because of sex-selection abortion
Silence = Death… For Our Sisters | arcoftheuniverse.info: My younger sister, Rachel, celebrated her birthday a couple of days ago. Growing up, there was never any question that my parents adored their new baby.
Rachel and Rebecca circa 1980
Rachel’s experience, however, was not shared by millions of girl children born into families who preferred to have a son rather than another daughter. Birth order is a significant risk factor; girls born second, third, or fourth (or later) face the highest risk. Today, as a result, millions of girls in India are missing. Since 1991 more than 12 million girls have been killed just because they were girls.
Rachel and Rebecca circa 1980
Rachel’s experience, however, was not shared by millions of girl children born into families who preferred to have a son rather than another daughter. Birth order is a significant risk factor; girls born second, third, or fourth (or later) face the highest risk. Today, as a result, millions of girls in India are missing. Since 1991 more than 12 million girls have been killed just because they were girls.
The Catholic Church is home to the tasteful and the tacky, the sinners and the saints
The Catholic Church is Home to the Tasteful and the Tacky, the Sinners and the Saints | ncregister.comLONGENECKER: I was living in England when we became Catholics and not long after our reception into the full communion of the Catholic Church an Anglican friend asked me, “Well, now that you’re Catholic do you like being Catholic?” He was referring to the fact that in England the Anglicans have all the nice old buildings, the money, the contacts with the Queen, the old cathedrals and colleges and lots and lots of good taste.
Pope Francis declares all of Festing’s recent acts ‘null and void’
Pope Francis Declares All of Festing’s Recent Acts ‘Null and Void’ | ncregister.com: Pope Francis has declared that all actions taken by the head of the Order of Malta and its governing council since the dismissal of Albrecht von Boeselager last month are “null and void,” including the election of Boeselager’s replacement.
Writing on the Pope’s behalf to members of the Order’s governing council Jan. 25, Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin wrote that the Holy Father, “on the basis of evidence that has emerged from information he has gathered, has determined that all actions taken by the Grand Master after December 6, 2016, are null and void.”
He added: “The same is true for those of the Sovereign Council, such as the election of the Grand Chancellor ad interim.” The Council elected Fra’ John Critien as Boeselager's temporary replacement.
Writing on the Pope’s behalf to members of the Order’s governing council Jan. 25, Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin wrote that the Holy Father, “on the basis of evidence that has emerged from information he has gathered, has determined that all actions taken by the Grand Master after December 6, 2016, are null and void.”
He added: “The same is true for those of the Sovereign Council, such as the election of the Grand Chancellor ad interim.” The Council elected Fra’ John Critien as Boeselager's temporary replacement.
It's time to tell the mainstream media why we march
It’s Time to Tell the Mainstream Media #WhyWeMarch | TOM PERNAPERNA: In recent memory, one of the only main media outlets that mentions the #MarchforLife (this is a hash tag – see below) is Fox News. Along with them, you get the other websites, mostly Pro-Life, that also speak about the March, but from any of the other news outlets – it’s a total media blackout. It’s time for us to tell the mainstream media that we have been Marching for Life for now 44 years.
Vice President Mike Pence to speak at March for Life
Vice President Pence Will Speak at March for Life | ncregister.com: Weeks of speculation were confirmed on Thursday, when the White House verified that Vice President Mike Pence will speak at the national March for Life on Jan. 27.
According to The New York Times, a senior White House official confirmed the news the day before the march, which is generally held close to the Jan. 22 anniversary of the Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision that mandated legal abortion nationwide.
The presence of a sitting vice president is a major boost for the annual pro-life march, which regularly sees hundreds of thousands of attendees from across the country, but generally receives minimal coverage in major media outlets. It is annually broadcast live on EWTN.
Other speakers at this year’s rally and march include Kellyanne Conway, senior counselor to President Donald Trump; Cardinal Timothy Dolan of New York; Baltimore Ravens tight end Benjamin Watson; and former Planned Parenthood director Abby Johnson.
According to The New York Times, a senior White House official confirmed the news the day before the march, which is generally held close to the Jan. 22 anniversary of the Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision that mandated legal abortion nationwide.
The presence of a sitting vice president is a major boost for the annual pro-life march, which regularly sees hundreds of thousands of attendees from across the country, but generally receives minimal coverage in major media outlets. It is annually broadcast live on EWTN.
Other speakers at this year’s rally and march include Kellyanne Conway, senior counselor to President Donald Trump; Cardinal Timothy Dolan of New York; Baltimore Ravens tight end Benjamin Watson; and former Planned Parenthood director Abby Johnson.
Doctor Who and others at the March for Life
Doctor Who at the March for Life – SIMCHA FISHERFISHER: Three of my kids are going to the March for Life! This will be the first time anyone from our family has been able to participate.
My kids are pretty great, of course, but I was bowled over when I saw the signs they made. I’m really proud of them. They’re going to spend a couple of days with a bunch of people they don’t know at all, they’re going to spend the night and part of another on a bus, and they’re going to be out in the cold all day, and probably get yelled at. Please pray for them and for everyone who participates — and for everyone who witnesses them, too, including any protestors. I’m really proud of them. They’re going to spend a couple of days with a bunch of people they don’t know at all, they’re going to spend the night and part of another on a bus, and they’re going to be out in the cold all day, and probably get yelled at. Please pray for them and for everyone who participates — and for everyone who witnesses them, too, including any protestors.
My kids are pretty great, of course, but I was bowled over when I saw the signs they made. I’m really proud of them. They’re going to spend a couple of days with a bunch of people they don’t know at all, they’re going to spend the night and part of another on a bus, and they’re going to be out in the cold all day, and probably get yelled at. Please pray for them and for everyone who participates — and for everyone who witnesses them, too, including any protestors. I’m really proud of them. They’re going to spend a couple of days with a bunch of people they don’t know at all, they’re going to spend the night and part of another on a bus, and they’re going to be out in the cold all day, and probably get yelled at. Please pray for them and for everyone who participates — and for everyone who witnesses them, too, including any protestors.
Fr. John Hardon's prophetic words on the family
Fr. John Hardon's Prophetic Words on the Family | ncregister.comEVINGER: Well, there seems to be a general consensus among die-hard Catholics: Servant of God Fr. John Hardon, S.J., was a truly amazing man, and his words (especially his words about family life) are not to be forgotten. In his time, he not only recognized the looming challenges that the traditional Christian family was facing, but he foresaw even more daunting ones to come. As he once said, “The Catholic family in super-developed countries like the United States is on trial for its existence... One modern pope after another keeps warning the faithful about the deadly struggle going on in the world today, between Christ, the Light of the world, and Satan, the prince of darkness, and the main focus of this struggle is the FAMILY.”
Why you should carry a pocketknife with you every day
12 Best Pocket Knives and Pocket Knife Brands for Everyday Use: My dad never left the house without his keys, a pen, and a pocketknife. I recall him swiftly offering to open packages, cut string, or remove splinters at a moment's notice. By having a pocketknife on him at all times, my father had his own do-it-yourself solution for a multitude of daily tasks. I've always admired that self-sufficiency, and in recent years I've strived to emulate it by carrying my own knife or multitool with me wherever I go.
I've found that carrying a small knife with me every day can be liberating—all because of those small DIY victories.
I've found that carrying a small knife with me every day can be liberating—all because of those small DIY victories.
What history may tell us about Amoris Laetitia
What History May Tell Us About Amoris Laetitia - Crisis MagazineSCANLON: Today cardinals and bishops are intensely divided over whether or not invalidly married Catholics living in adultery can receive Holy Communion. Fifty years ago, this kind of question would have boggled the minds of Catholics everywhere, because the answer would be both obvious and simple: “No!” The question has arisen today because a recent and controversial church document has thrown this question into doubt. Amoris Laetitia, the apostolic exhortation of Pope Francis issued last spring, seems to be saying the answer can be “Yes!,” if it is necessary to protect a couple’s relationship and the good of their children.
Peter Hitchens: The fantasy of addiction
The Fantasy of Addiction by Peter Hitchens | Articles | First Things: I never meant to start an argument about addiction. I had carried my private doubts on the subject around in my head for years, in the “heresy” section where I keep my really risky thoughts. And I don’t recommend disagreeing in public with Hollywood royalty, either, which is how it happened. In such a clash, most people will think you are wrong and Hollywood is right, especially if your opponent is Chandler Bing, the beloved character from Friends. Of course, he wasn’t really Chandler Bing, just an actor called Matthew Perry—but an actor with an entourage so big it filled an entire elevator at the BBC’s new studios in central London where we quarreled.
Vice President Mike Pence to speak at March for Life, first VP ever to address event
Vice President Mike Pence Will Speak at March for Life, First VP Ever to Address Pro-Life Event | LifeNews.com: Vice President Mike Pence will speak at the March for Life on Friday — making him the first vice president ever to address the pro-life event in person.
Pence is the former governor of Indiana who has a longtime pro-life position and a lengthy pro-life record putting pro-life legislation into law in that state and voting pro life as a member of Congress.
“Let me be clear: People who know me well know I’m pro-life, and I don’t apologize for it,” he’s said previously. “I want to live to see the day that we put the sanctity of life back at the center of American law, and we send Roe v. Wade to the ash heap of history, where it belongs.”
Pence is the former governor of Indiana who has a longtime pro-life position and a lengthy pro-life record putting pro-life legislation into law in that state and voting pro life as a member of Congress.
“Let me be clear: People who know me well know I’m pro-life, and I don’t apologize for it,” he’s said previously. “I want to live to see the day that we put the sanctity of life back at the center of American law, and we send Roe v. Wade to the ash heap of history, where it belongs.”
Parsing Pope Francis's puzzling take on religion in China
Parsing Pope Francis's puzzling take on religion in ChinaALLEN: Understandably, most reaction to Pope Francis’s latest blockbuster interview, in this case with the Spanish newspaper El Pais, focused on his comments on populism, including Donald Trump.
Whenever you have the pope warning against the lure of political “saviors” promising to solve crises with walls and wire, and even making comparisons to Adolph Hitler, it’s obviously going to make waves and get tongues wagging.
Yet for all those who care about the cause of religious freedom around the world, there’s another portion of the interview that’s likely to raise eyebrows and, perhaps, generate some consternation - what Francis had to say about China.
Whenever you have the pope warning against the lure of political “saviors” promising to solve crises with walls and wire, and even making comparisons to Adolph Hitler, it’s obviously going to make waves and get tongues wagging.
Yet for all those who care about the cause of religious freedom around the world, there’s another portion of the interview that’s likely to raise eyebrows and, perhaps, generate some consternation - what Francis had to say about China.
Theology isn’t math, but it is theology
Theology isn’t Math; but it is Theology | George Weigel | First ThingsWEIGEL: During the heyday of the Solidarity movement, a famous Polish slogan had it that, “For Poland to be Poland, 2 2 Must Always = 4.” It was a quirky but pointed way of challenging the communist culture of the lie, which befogged public life and warped relationships between parents and children, husbands and wives, colleagues and neighbors. For Poland to be something other than the claustrophobic Soviet puppet-state it had been since 1945—for Poland to be itself, true to its character and history—Poland had to live in the truth: It had to be a country in which 2 2 always equaled 4.
President Trump calls out ABC News, other media for failing to cover March for Life
BREAKING VIDEO: President Trump calls out mainstream media for failing to cover March for Life | News | LifeSite: During a Wednesday night interview with ABC, President Trump called out the media for covering a pro-abortion march but ignoring the March for Life.
ABC's David Muir asked Trump if he "could hear the voices from the women’s march here in Washington?"
"I couldn’t hear them, but the crowds were large," Trump responded. "You’re gonna have a large crowd on Friday, too, which is mostly pro-life people. You’re gonna have a lot of people coming on Friday, and I will say this, and I didn’t realize this, but I was told, you will have a very large crowd of people. I don’t know – as large or larger – some people say it’s gonna be larger. Pro-life people. And they say the press doesn’t cover them."
ABC's David Muir asked Trump if he "could hear the voices from the women’s march here in Washington?"
"I couldn’t hear them, but the crowds were large," Trump responded. "You’re gonna have a large crowd on Friday, too, which is mostly pro-life people. You’re gonna have a lot of people coming on Friday, and I will say this, and I didn’t realize this, but I was told, you will have a very large crowd of people. I don’t know – as large or larger – some people say it’s gonna be larger. Pro-life people. And they say the press doesn’t cover them."
Two marches, two Madonnas, two Americas
Two Marches, Two Madonnas, Two AmericasLONGENECKER: Nothing illustrates the two Americas better than last weekend’s Women’s March and this weekend’s March for Life.
The Women’s March had unbelievable coverage by the mainstream media. It was as if the major media were unpaid, national and international supporters of a left wing agenda driven campaign. Unless something changes, on the other hand, we can expect the March for Life to be virtually ignored.
Half a million (mostly young) people will march and the world will look away.
The Women’s March had unbelievable coverage by the mainstream media. It was as if the major media were unpaid, national and international supporters of a left wing agenda driven campaign. Unless something changes, on the other hand, we can expect the March for Life to be virtually ignored.
Half a million (mostly young) people will march and the world will look away.
Wednesday, January 25, 2017
An unexpected ally: Christopher Hitchens' surprising views on abortion
An Unexpected Ally: Did You Know Atheist Christopher Hitchens Was Pro-Life? | ChurchPOP: Christopher Hitchens was a committed atheist and fierce opponent of religion in general, appearing in many debates arguing against the existence of God, published a book called God is Not Great: How Religion Poisons Everything, and even attacked the virtue of Mother Teresa in a film titled Hell’s Angel.
So the following fact might surprise you: he was against abortion.
In a debate with Christian philosopher Jay W. Richards, Hitchens condemned religions that praised infanticide, which prompted one of the moderators to ask him if he was involved in the pro-life movement.
So the following fact might surprise you: he was against abortion.
In a debate with Christian philosopher Jay W. Richards, Hitchens condemned religions that praised infanticide, which prompted one of the moderators to ask him if he was involved in the pro-life movement.
What we're marching against when we March for Life
Marching for Life - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: As we prepare for the March for Life this Friday, I am led to ponder some of the subtler psychological roots of abortion. Beyond the legal problems and the moral issues such as unrestrained lust, greed, and selfishness, there are several other trends in our culture that should be recognized. They all tend to feed upon one another.
Sodalits agree to pay 2.8 million dollars in reparations to abuse victims
Sodalits agree to pay 2.8 million dollars in reparations to abuse victims :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): The Sodalitium Christianae Vitae announced Saturday that 66 persons can be considered victims of abuse of mistreatment by members of the community.
The superior general of the community, Alessandro Moroni Llabres, also said Jan. 21 that the society has set aside more than $2.8 million in reparations and assistance for victims.
Moroni's statement followed the Jan. 16 decision of Peruvian public prosecutor MarÃa del Pilar Peralta RamÃrez to drop charges against the founder, Luis Fernando Figari, and other members of the community. Figari has been accused of sexual abuse, mistreatment, and abuse of power.
The superior general of the community, Alessandro Moroni Llabres, also said Jan. 21 that the society has set aside more than $2.8 million in reparations and assistance for victims.
Moroni's statement followed the Jan. 16 decision of Peruvian public prosecutor MarÃa del Pilar Peralta RamÃrez to drop charges against the founder, Luis Fernando Figari, and other members of the community. Figari has been accused of sexual abuse, mistreatment, and abuse of power.
What to do when your “retreat high” fades away
When the "Retreat High" Comes to an End - Catholic Stand : Catholic StandDESANTIS: Steubenville Conferences, Kairos, random weekend retreats: I’ve done them all. Every time I come back from one of these super-hyped, life-changing weekends, I experience this mountain-top feeling known as the “retreat high”. This feeling occurs after a weekend of endlessly singing Praise and Worship songs, listening to dozens of motivational talks, and drinking just enough coffee to last a lifetime. We come back from these types of weekends and wonder why no one at church raises their hands during the songs or why the guy from Dunkin’ Donuts frowned when handed a purity card. When experiencing this spiritual high, we may also be put under the impression that our life will be easy from this point forward and that nothing bad will ever happen.
Pope's Wednesday Audience: The courage of Judith gave courage to her people
GENERAL AUDIENCE: On Judith: The Courage of a Woman Gives Courage to a People – ZENIT – English: Outstanding among the figures of women that the Old Testament presents to us, is that of a great heroine of the people: Judith. The biblical Book that bears her name talks about the imposing military campaign of King Nebuchadnezzar who, reigning in Nineveh, extended the borders of the empire, defeating and enslaving all the surrounding peoples. The reader understands he is before a great, invincible enemy, which is sowing death and destruction and which arrives at the Promised Land, putting in danger the life of the children of Israel.
Countering The Atlantic's fake news: Yes, fetuses do have heartbeats
Countering The Atlantic's Fake News: Yes, Fetuses Have Heartbeats | ncregister.comSCHIFFER: As opponents of abortion commemorated the 44th anniversary of the Roe v. Wade decision which legalized abortion across America, The Atlantic has embarrassed itself with a woefully uninformed post alleging that fetal heartbeats evident on ultrasounds are “imaginary.”
The magazine, after claiming that there is “no heart to speak of” in a six-week-old fetus, was forced to issue a formal retraction after a twitterstorm of protests broke out.
The magazine, after claiming that there is “no heart to speak of” in a six-week-old fetus, was forced to issue a formal retraction after a twitterstorm of protests broke out.
There have been some impressive hints lately of a Christian reawakening in Europe
The Reawakening of Christian Civilization in Eastern Europe - The Imaginative ConservativeSTEPHENTURLEY: First, let’s look at what happened recently in Poland. In a ceremony at the Church of Divine Mercy in Krakow last November 19th, the Catholic Bishops of Poland, in the presence of President Andreiz Duda and many Catholic pilgrims, officially recognized Jesus Christ as the King of Poland and called upon Him to rule over their nation, its people and their political leaders.
At Mass, they prayed “Immortal King of Ages Lord Jesus Christ, our God and Savior, bowing our heads before You, King of the Universe, we acknowledge Thy dominion over Poland, those living in our homeland and throughout the world. Wishing to worship the majesty of Thy power and glory, with great faith and love, we cry out: Rule us, Christ!”
At Mass, they prayed “Immortal King of Ages Lord Jesus Christ, our God and Savior, bowing our heads before You, King of the Universe, we acknowledge Thy dominion over Poland, those living in our homeland and throughout the world. Wishing to worship the majesty of Thy power and glory, with great faith and love, we cry out: Rule us, Christ!”
The 12-year-old who fought in the U.S. Civil War
The 12-Year-Old Who Fought In the Civil War | Mental Floss: When the American Civil War broke out in 1861, John Clem decided to enlist in the Union Army. There was just one problem: The Ohio resident was just 9 years old. Undeterred by his youth, Clem forced his way into the conflict. By the time he was discharged near the end of the war, he had not only seen active combat but had become a national folk hero as well—and he wasn't even 13.
Yet with folk heroes come folktales. Once a real person’s deeds achieve near-mythic status in public perception, hearsay tends to bury fact. While much of Clem’s story is 100 percent verifiable, he did make a few claims that some historians question. Here’s what we know for sure.
Yet with folk heroes come folktales. Once a real person’s deeds achieve near-mythic status in public perception, hearsay tends to bury fact. While much of Clem’s story is 100 percent verifiable, he did make a few claims that some historians question. Here’s what we know for sure.
There used to be 4 billion American chestnut trees, but they all disappeared
There used to be 4 billion American chestnut trees, but they all disappeared: American chestnut trees once blanketed the east coast, with an estimated 4 billion trees spreading in dense canopies from Maine to Mississippi and Florida. These huge and ancient trees, up to 100 feet tall and 9 feet around, were awe-inspiring, the redwoods of the east coast, but with an extra perk — the nuts were edible. Chestnuts were roasted, ground into flour for cakes and bread, and stewed into puddings. The leaves of the trees were boiled down into medicinal treatments by Native Americans. The trees make appearances throughout American literature, like in Thoreau’s journal, where he considered his guilt over pelting them with rocks to shake the nuts loose while he lived in Walden woods, musing that the “old trees are our parents, and our parents’ parents, perchance.” Chestnut trees offered shade in town squares, were the wood of choice for pioneers’ log cabins, and were a mainstay of American woodcraft. In short, chestnuts were part of everyday American life. Until they weren’t.
Higher education in Hell
Higher Education in Hell - Crisis MagazineESOLEN: “Teaching is a political act,” said a former nun who used to teach at my school, Providence College. She had lost her faith along with her habit, and so what was left to her if not politics? Back then, she sounded like a chic radical uttering an empty slogan. Her dictum could now serve as the motto for quite a few of our departments and programs and many more in colleges across the country. Though perhaps it would sound too cautious, at that. Not only, in the minds of many professors, is teaching an act with political ramifications; without the political, their teaching has no raison d’etre. Even the political then loses its special but subordinate character. The political becomes a cloak in human form, draped over emptiness.
It would seem now that it is the conservative who is the new subversive…
The Subversive Conservative - The Imaginative ConservativeLONGENECKER: T.S. Eliot wrote something somewhere along the lines of, “In a world of fugitives the one who stays home will seem to be running away.” So it is for the conservative in the world today. When everyone else seems to be running from reality into the latest technology, the latest ideology, or the latest hedonistic folly, the person who stays home will seem to be running away. By “staying at home” I mean staying with all that is old, not new, and all that is beautiful, good, and true.
For what is our modern, secular, atheistic society but one gigantic attempt to escape reality, responsibility and realism? Everyone seems to have his personal soma—that hallucinogenic feel-good pill in Alduous Huxley’s Brave New World. It may be sports, television, film, or music, as long as one remains a spectator not a participant. It may be the ceaseless acquisition of yet more consumer goods, the unthinking scramble for social success, status, and “winning,” or it may be sexual pleasure, street drugs, prescription drugs, or the tried-and-true drugs of alcohol and food. Whatever the vice, it is our attempt to escape, to revert to an infantile state of dependency, comfort, and shallow pleasure.
For what is our modern, secular, atheistic society but one gigantic attempt to escape reality, responsibility and realism? Everyone seems to have his personal soma—that hallucinogenic feel-good pill in Alduous Huxley’s Brave New World. It may be sports, television, film, or music, as long as one remains a spectator not a participant. It may be the ceaseless acquisition of yet more consumer goods, the unthinking scramble for social success, status, and “winning,” or it may be sexual pleasure, street drugs, prescription drugs, or the tried-and-true drugs of alcohol and food. Whatever the vice, it is our attempt to escape, to revert to an infantile state of dependency, comfort, and shallow pleasure.
How to explain to your friends that there's no such thing as reincarnation
How to Explain to Your Friends That There's No Such Thing as Reincarnation | ncregister.comSTAGNARO: According to the pseudo-philosophy of reincarnation, everyone receives a new body after death. This is just a pernicious and hackneyed variation on the Gnostic, Manicheanism and Albigensian heresy that matter is evil and the spirit is good.
It's odd to think that anyone would believe in reincarnation but refuse to believe in Christ's Incarnation or, indeed, His Resurrection in which He showed His disciples the wounds in His hands, feet and side. This should serve as sufficient proof that early Christians don't believe that those who return from the dead are given "new" bodies" but rather their bodies are perfected as was Christ's.
It's odd to think that anyone would believe in reincarnation but refuse to believe in Christ's Incarnation or, indeed, His Resurrection in which He showed His disciples the wounds in His hands, feet and side. This should serve as sufficient proof that early Christians don't believe that those who return from the dead are given "new" bodies" but rather their bodies are perfected as was Christ's.
SNAP leader David Clohessy resigns in wake of lawsuit
Victims advocacy group announces leader's resignation in wake of lawsuit - Chicago Tribune: The Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests announced Tuesday that its longtime national director, accused by a former SNAP employee of referring potential clients to attorneys in return for financial kickbacks to the group, resigned at the end of last year.
The announcement that David Clohessy, of St. Louis, left the Chicago-based organization comes a week after he and other leaders were named in a lawsuit filed by a former employee who said she was fired shortly after asking superiors whether SNAP was referring victims to attorneys in exchange for donations to the organization.
The announcement that David Clohessy, of St. Louis, left the Chicago-based organization comes a week after he and other leaders were named in a lawsuit filed by a former employee who said she was fired shortly after asking superiors whether SNAP was referring victims to attorneys in exchange for donations to the organization.
A sad paradox: So many human rights advocates support abortion, the gravest human rights violation of all
The Abortion Paradox | arcoftheuniverse.infoPHILPOTT: This year, when I and most likely hundreds of thousands of other people walk in the March for Life in Washington, D.C., we will be doing so with greater optimism than we have had in many years. We have a president in the White House who promises strong measures to protect the unborn. This is ironic. I did not vote for Trump in good part because of his many statements that augured exclusions of entire classes of people from our national life as well as the compromise of human rights. Yet he is quite likely to take serious measures towards including the unborn in our national community. Meanwhile, the other candidate promised inclusion and tolerance but would exclude the unborn from the human family right up to the moment of birth. Her party brashly celebrated its extreme abortion rights stance and made no room for pro-life voices in its 2016 national convention, just as in 2012.
Tuesday, January 24, 2017
Grand Master of Knights of Malta resigns at Pope's request after dispute with Vatican
Knights of Malta head resigns after dispute with Vatican | ReutersPENTIN: Following a dispute between the Order and the Holy See, Pope Francis asked the Grand Master of the Knights of Malta to submit his resignation on Tuesday which the Pope then accepted.
In a Jan. 25 statement, the Vatican said: “Yesterday, 24 January 2017, in audience with the Holy Father, His Highness Fra’ Matthew Festing tendered his resignation from the office of Grand Master of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta.”
“Today, 25 January, the Holy Father accepted his resignation, expressing appreciation and gratitude to Fra’ Festing for his loyalty and devotion to the Successor of Peter, and his willingness to serve humbly the good of the Order and the Church.”
There's a new leader of Opus Dei. Here's what he wants to do...
There's a new leader of Opus Dei. Here's what he wants to do. :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): The new head of Opus Dei has been confirmed by Pope Francis, and his plan for the prelature is simple. “I have the desire that the prelature of Opus Dei continues to do the good it has done and is increasingly doing in service of the world, which is really the only thing that interests us: the good of the person. The good of the person which, in the final moment, is the encounter with Jesus Christ,” Monsignor Fernando Ocariz Braña told reporters Tuesday.
Msgr. Ocariz voiced gratitude to Pope Francis, who formally accepted the nomination Jan. 23.
Msgr. Ocariz voiced gratitude to Pope Francis, who formally accepted the nomination Jan. 23.
U.S. House votes to permanently ban taxpayer funding of abortion
US House Votes to Permanently Ban Taxpayer Funding of Abortion | ncregister.com: The U.S. House of Representatives passed its first major pro-life bill of the new year on Tuesday, one which would solidify in law the current policy of no federal funding of abortions.
The bill would “protect Americans’ conscience rights by ensuring that their hard-earned tax dollars are not used to fund the destruction of innocent life,” Rep. Diane Black, R-Tenn., said on the House Floor before the vote.
Federal funding for abortion is largely prohibited under the 40-year-old Hyde Amendment, named after its original sponsor, Rep. Henry Hyde, R-Ill. However, that amendment has to be passed by Congress every year as a “rider” to appropriations bills, clarifying that the taxpayer dollars cannot be used for abortions.
The bill would “protect Americans’ conscience rights by ensuring that their hard-earned tax dollars are not used to fund the destruction of innocent life,” Rep. Diane Black, R-Tenn., said on the House Floor before the vote.
Federal funding for abortion is largely prohibited under the 40-year-old Hyde Amendment, named after its original sponsor, Rep. Henry Hyde, R-Ill. However, that amendment has to be passed by Congress every year as a “rider” to appropriations bills, clarifying that the taxpayer dollars cannot be used for abortions.
Women’s rights are human rights
Women’s rights are human rightsCONLEY: Last weekend, hundreds of thousands of women gathered for marches and demonstrations across the country, organized to proclaim that “women’s rights are human rights.”
No Catholic can dispute that claim. Women are created in the image of God, with dignity and beauty, and are deserving of the respect, honor, and appreciation afforded to every human person. And women suffer great injustices and indignities in places around the world, none of which should be tolerable for Christians. The Church should be the first to call for just, honorable, and loving treatment for every woman, at every stage of her life.
But the women’s marches organized last week, however well-intentioned, had a troubling approach to their advocacy. The marches tended towards an approach which plagues many movements in contemporary political and social life—they fostered a narrative of opposition, in which men and women are cast as adversaries, each grasping for the reins of power, instead of seeking unity, complementarity, mutual support, respect, and charity. Moreover, the marches seemed to embrace a kind of crudity which robs women of their true identity. There seemed to be a focus on crass slogans and symbols, replacing the beauty of femininity with an unbecoming, hard-edged vulgarity. This vulgarity was, in some cases, a response to intolerable and unacceptable crudities cast at women, most notably by our new president—but it should be clear that both his words and many responses were simply beneath our human dignity.
No Catholic can dispute that claim. Women are created in the image of God, with dignity and beauty, and are deserving of the respect, honor, and appreciation afforded to every human person. And women suffer great injustices and indignities in places around the world, none of which should be tolerable for Christians. The Church should be the first to call for just, honorable, and loving treatment for every woman, at every stage of her life.
But the women’s marches organized last week, however well-intentioned, had a troubling approach to their advocacy. The marches tended towards an approach which plagues many movements in contemporary political and social life—they fostered a narrative of opposition, in which men and women are cast as adversaries, each grasping for the reins of power, instead of seeking unity, complementarity, mutual support, respect, and charity. Moreover, the marches seemed to embrace a kind of crudity which robs women of their true identity. There seemed to be a focus on crass slogans and symbols, replacing the beauty of femininity with an unbecoming, hard-edged vulgarity. This vulgarity was, in some cases, a response to intolerable and unacceptable crudities cast at women, most notably by our new president—but it should be clear that both his words and many responses were simply beneath our human dignity.
How reporters got the Pope's telegram to Trump wrong
How reporters got the Pope's telegram to Trump wrongSANMARTIN: Reporting the news is a tough gig. No one goes into this line of work believing it’ll be a 9-5 job, with weekends off and vacations at sunny places with luxury hotels selling colorful drinks.
Even when you’re on the Catholic beat, the news is a 24/7 beast, particularly in the Pope Francis era. The need to be fast, to respond to the unpredictable, to report on the go or after postponing a Friday night out with friends because the pope sent a telegram to the new President of the United States, are chronic professional hazards.
Every reporter has a personal list of pieces we’d like to have back, but none of this is an excuse for sloppy journalism. As the late United States Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan famously said, “Everyone is entitled to their own opinions, they are not entitled to their own facts.”
Even when you’re on the Catholic beat, the news is a 24/7 beast, particularly in the Pope Francis era. The need to be fast, to respond to the unpredictable, to report on the go or after postponing a Friday night out with friends because the pope sent a telegram to the new President of the United States, are chronic professional hazards.
Every reporter has a personal list of pieces we’d like to have back, but none of this is an excuse for sloppy journalism. As the late United States Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan famously said, “Everyone is entitled to their own opinions, they are not entitled to their own facts.”
Three ways to not deal with Canon 915
Three ways to not deal with Canon 915 | In the Light of the LawEDPETERS: Any canonist citing canon law in defense of doctrine or discipline these days should expect to be compared to a Pharisee and tritely accused of ‘throwing the law at pastoral problems’. Antinomianism, you see, which has taken hold in many places, routinely regards the invocation of inconvenient laws as an act of moral violence and usually views lawyers as hypocrites suffering from psychological disorders. Oh well, let’s talk about a canonical issue with profound implications for the Church in our day, shall we?
Why the Church guards celibacy as a “brilliant jewel”
Why the Church Guards Celibacy as a “Brilliant Jewel” | ncregister.comGRAVES: Fr. Gary Selin is a priest of the Archdiocese of Denver and serves as formation director and assistant professor at St. John Vianney Theological Seminary in Denver. He grew up in a Catholic family in Idaho where his father worked for the forest service.
He is a graduate of Thomas Aquinas College in Santa Paula, California. After having made two pilgrimages to Fatima, he decided to enter a religious community there. However, after living in community for six years, he chose not to renew his vows.
At the invitation of Archbishop Charles Chaput, who at the time served as Archbishop of Denver, he entered the seminary for Denver and was ordained a priest in 2003. He earned a doctorate degree in theology from Catholic University, delivering his dissertation on priestly celibacy. He later used the material to create a book, Priestly Celibacy: Theological Foundations.
He is a graduate of Thomas Aquinas College in Santa Paula, California. After having made two pilgrimages to Fatima, he decided to enter a religious community there. However, after living in community for six years, he chose not to renew his vows.
At the invitation of Archbishop Charles Chaput, who at the time served as Archbishop of Denver, he entered the seminary for Denver and was ordained a priest in 2003. He earned a doctorate degree in theology from Catholic University, delivering his dissertation on priestly celibacy. He later used the material to create a book, Priestly Celibacy: Theological Foundations.
Netflix's “The Crown” and the fundamental values of a society
“The Crown” and the Fundamental Values of a Society | Word On FireBARRON: The Netflix original series The Crown, which has to do with the last months of the reign of King George VI and the first years of the reign of his daughter, Queen Elizabeth II, is just the kind of program that Americans in particular seem naturally to love. It features beautiful photography of palaces, processions, and formal receptions; and it provides a behind-the-scenes look at the ne plus ultra of the British aristocracy. Consider it Downton Abbey on steroids. Some of the more affecting scenes in the entire series center around the transition from father to daughter, a time of trauma for the nation and deep personal pain for the family of the relatively young King. After Elizabeth, just returned from an African sojourn, had viewed the body of her beloved father, she meets her grandmother, Queen Mary, in one of the corridors of Buckingham Palace. The old lady, swathed in black Victorian garb, spies her granddaughter and then with tremendous dignity and through considerable discomfort, contorts herself into a formal curtsy. Taking in this unaccustomed display, Elizabeth registers her astonishment and feels, perhaps for the first time, that she is now the monarch.
Why a pro-choice woman joined a group of religious sisters for the ‘Walk for Life’
Why a pro-choice woman joined a group of religious sisters for the ‘Walk for Life’ - Society - Aleteia.org – Worldwide Catholic Network Sharing Faith Resources for those seeking Truth – Aleteia.orgROMANOWSKY: Marci Velando is a 40-year-old native Californian who worked at Lucasfilm for 13 years as an IT professional and graphic artist. Through work in that field, Velando met the Dominican Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Eucharist, with whom she has become very friendly over the past three years.
marci-sisters-2
Identifying herself as a “religious seeker” she considers herself to be “pro-choice,” but this past weekend, Marci Velando joined the Sisters as they participated in the West Coast Walk for Life — something she never, in a million years, anticipated doing. She has been kind enough to share that experience with Aleteia.
marci-sisters-2
Identifying herself as a “religious seeker” she considers herself to be “pro-choice,” but this past weekend, Marci Velando joined the Sisters as they participated in the West Coast Walk for Life — something she never, in a million years, anticipated doing. She has been kind enough to share that experience with Aleteia.
The Human Life Review Symposium: Pro-life in the time of Trump
The Human Life Review Symposium: Pro-life in the Time of Trump - The Human Life Review: We asked our participants to reflect on “Pro-life in the Time of Trump,” and offered them the following two opposing views to consider: Charles Camosy writing the day after the election in Crux, and Marjorie Dannenfelser quoted in Susan B. Anthony List’s press release the same day. The responses we received are thoughtful, challenging and varied, and will, we hope, encourage fruitful dialogue and collaboration for life.—The Editors
I know we encounter Christ in confession, but I wasn’t expecting THIS!
I know we encounter Christ in confession, but I wasn’t expecting THIS! - Spotlight - Aleteia.org – Worldwide Catholic Network Sharing Faith Resources for those seeking Truth – Aleteia.orgKRANICK: A number of years ago I approached a confessional in the crypt church at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C. It was there that something somewhat miraculous happened, or at least that is how it struck me.
I was a regular visitor at the crypt church for confession and to attend Mass. On this particular day, however, I was also there to pray for a close friend from my childhood days who had recently and unexpectedly passed away.
I was a regular visitor at the crypt church for confession and to attend Mass. On this particular day, however, I was also there to pray for a close friend from my childhood days who had recently and unexpectedly passed away.
HBO's “The Young Pope” out-Borgias the Borgias, except that it's unfailingly boring
Silly Putty: A Review of “The Young Pope” - The Catholic ThingMINER: The Young Pope, which premiered last week on HBO, is the story of the fictional Pius XIII. This is a review based solely upon Episodes 1 and 2 (of 10) and a bunch of YouTube clips.
The 47-year-old (so. . .only relatively young) Archbishop of New York, Lenny Belardo (played by Jude Law), has been elected pope as a compromise candidate. The cardinal electors (liberals and conservatives alike) believe his youth will make Papa Lenny as manipulable as silly putty. In fact, he turns out to be strong-minded and more “conservative” than any pope since Pius X (under a portrait of whom one early scene is shot). He rides in the sedia gestatoria and wears the papal tiara.
The 47-year-old (so. . .only relatively young) Archbishop of New York, Lenny Belardo (played by Jude Law), has been elected pope as a compromise candidate. The cardinal electors (liberals and conservatives alike) believe his youth will make Papa Lenny as manipulable as silly putty. In fact, he turns out to be strong-minded and more “conservative” than any pope since Pius X (under a portrait of whom one early scene is shot). He rides in the sedia gestatoria and wears the papal tiara.
The Church doesn’t need your opinion, she needs your holiness...
The Church doesn’t need our opinion, she needs our holiness - Top Stories - Aleteia.org – Worldwide Catholic Network Sharing Faith Resources for those seeking Truth – Aleteia.orgNOBLE: We live in a world full of opinions. And the internet has amplified the number of opinions we hear each day. People who used to grouse about life to their best friend or next-door neighbors now have websites, blogs, and social media accounts through which they can announce their opinions on any given subject to the world.
“I can be silent no more!” This sentiment is widespread, as if typing out our grievances will somehow solve the world’s problems. The democratizing force of the internet makes us all feel like our opinions are much more valuable than they really are.
“I can be silent no more!” This sentiment is widespread, as if typing out our grievances will somehow solve the world’s problems. The democratizing force of the internet makes us all feel like our opinions are much more valuable than they really are.
Is there virtue in controlling your tongue?
Is there Virtue in controlling your tongue? | Knowing Is DoingTORRE: If you ever wondered what might be a good way of keeping our thoughts from becoming verbal assaults on another person, place or thing we might want to turn to St. Francis De Sales. In has masterful work 'Introduction the Devout Life' St. Francis teaches the importance of practicing virtue especially with our temptation to speak about anything. The key to his method revolved around leading the person to the virtues most suited to him. When curbing our temptation to speak exercising the virtue of charity serves as an effective deterrent if the intent of our initial communication is not charitable. The virtue of charity simply put is derived from Christ Himself. The fact that Christ died for our sinful humanity reflects a genuine love that speaks louder than words.
SNL admits feminists can be pro-life while lampooning Women's March
SNL Admits Feminists Can Be Pro-Life While Lampooning Women's March | ChurchPOP: Who saw this coming?
The most recent episode of NBC’s comedy sketch show Saturday Night Live admitted that feminists can be pro-life while cracking some jokes about the recent Women’s March.
“The Women’s March in Washington was held today…” the comedian began in the “Weekend Update” bit. “It was an amazing show of support for feminism. But some feminist groups were actually asked not to march because of their pro-life views. Which raises the question, what makes a feminist a feminist? It’s confusing.”
He added a bit later in the skit: “A feminist is really just someone who believes in equal rights for women, and that’s easy to get behind. That is, until you see an actual feminist screaming into a cop’s face wearing a homemade uterus hat, and you’re like, ‘Oh, there are levels to this.'”
The most recent episode of NBC’s comedy sketch show Saturday Night Live admitted that feminists can be pro-life while cracking some jokes about the recent Women’s March.
“The Women’s March in Washington was held today…” the comedian began in the “Weekend Update” bit. “It was an amazing show of support for feminism. But some feminist groups were actually asked not to march because of their pro-life views. Which raises the question, what makes a feminist a feminist? It’s confusing.”
He added a bit later in the skit: “A feminist is really just someone who believes in equal rights for women, and that’s easy to get behind. That is, until you see an actual feminist screaming into a cop’s face wearing a homemade uterus hat, and you’re like, ‘Oh, there are levels to this.'”
12 things about St. Thomas Aquinas that every Catholic should know
BIG C CATHOLICS: Twelve Things About Saint Thomas Aquinas That Every Catholic Should Know: One of the most brilliant minds in the history of the Church, St. Thomas Aquinas was born in 1225 at the castle of Roccasecca, in the present day Lazio region of Italy, the youngest of nine children. Thomas’ father was a man of means and nobility. Thomas's mother would try to prevent Thomas from joining the Dominican Order. His family expected him to enter the Benedictine Abbey where his uncle was the abbot. Thomas Aquinas dedicated his life to creating a complete synthesis of Catholic philosophy and theology. In honor of his feast day, [January 28] here are twelve things every Catholic should know about the Angelic Doctor.
Pope sends message to media on Feast of St. Francis de Sales: “Communicate the good news”
Pope Francis to Media: Offer the Good News of Hope | ncregister.com: In his annual message to communicators around the world, Pope Francis again condemned the tendency for media to focus on “bad news,” saying journalists, while being accurate, must also offer a message of hope.
“We have to break the vicious circle of anxiety and stem the spiral of fear resulting from a constant focus on ‘bad news,’” such as war, terrorism, scandal and other human failures, the Pope said in his message for the World Day of Social Communications.
The message was published Jan. 24 to mark the feast of St. Francis de Sales, patron of writers, journalists and the Catholic press. The actual day of communications will be celebrated May 28 and will focus on the theme of the Pope’s message: “Fear Not, for I Am With You: Communicating Hope and Trust in Our Time.”
“We have to break the vicious circle of anxiety and stem the spiral of fear resulting from a constant focus on ‘bad news,’” such as war, terrorism, scandal and other human failures, the Pope said in his message for the World Day of Social Communications.
The message was published Jan. 24 to mark the feast of St. Francis de Sales, patron of writers, journalists and the Catholic press. The actual day of communications will be celebrated May 28 and will focus on the theme of the Pope’s message: “Fear Not, for I Am With You: Communicating Hope and Trust in Our Time.”
Monday, January 23, 2017
You HAVE to see this: Crusaders for Life youth sing for unborn under Illinois State Capitol dome
New Advent: You HAVE to see this: Crusaders for Life youth sing for unborn under Illinois State Capitol dome: The Crusaders for Life sing Coventry Carol (arr. by Phillip Stopford) — a hymn to the Holy Innocents arranged by Phillip Stopford — after a march to the Illinois State Capitol on Jan. 20, 2017 to speak out for the unborn who cannot speak for themselves.
I was a self-help guru. Here’s why you shouldn’t listen to people like me...
I was a self-help guru. Here’s why you shouldn’t listen to people like me. - Vox: Deepak Chopra is a fraud. This is what I was thinking as I lingered 20 rows back, waiting for Bree, my boss, to finish huddling with Deepak onstage about the presentation he would give that evening.
Bree ran the San Francisco chapter of The Learning Annex, that mainstay of adult education courses for the personal-growth set. This was the mid-’90s, when people still called the New Age movement “the New Age movement.” Deepak was our big get that season. We proudly positioned the blurb announcing his lecture at the front of the newsprint catalog on its own two-page spread, rather than tucked away amid the litany of courses taught by shamans, sexperts, and self-professed real estate tycoons.
Bree ran the San Francisco chapter of The Learning Annex, that mainstay of adult education courses for the personal-growth set. This was the mid-’90s, when people still called the New Age movement “the New Age movement.” Deepak was our big get that season. We proudly positioned the blurb announcing his lecture at the front of the newsprint catalog on its own two-page spread, rather than tucked away amid the litany of courses taught by shamans, sexperts, and self-professed real estate tycoons.
Pro-lifers care about the born, more than liberals know
Pro-Lifers Care About the Born, More Than Liberals Know | The StreamMILLS: The comment makes those of us involved in pro-life work roll our eyes or snort. It’s sometimes said with a furrowed brow and a shaking head, sometimes with a smug gleam of triumph.
You’ve heard it too: Pro-lifers don’t care about children once they’re born. That’s quite wrong, but even if the charge were right, it would not matter.
You’ve heard it too: Pro-lifers don’t care about children once they’re born. That’s quite wrong, but even if the charge were right, it would not matter.
The Left’s failure: Why Nat Hentoff lost his friends
The Human Life Review The Left’s Failure: Why Nat Hentoff Lost His Friends - The Human Life ReviewMILLS: He shocked his friends, and lost a good many of them. He said something no one in his circles would say. In doing so, he exposed one of the weirder and sadder failures in modern American political life.
Nat Hentoff was one of the really cool guys. He wrote for the New York City weekly, The Village Voice, hippest newspaper in America. He was a jazz critic before anyone else thought jazz worth writing about, and good friends with some of the most important jazz musicians of the century. He marched against the Vietnam war and racial discrimination. He loudly and constantly defended the most radical possible version of civil rights, becoming famous—or notorious, depending on your point of view—for defending the rights of neo-Nazis to march in a heavily Jewish town.
Nat Hentoff was one of the really cool guys. He wrote for the New York City weekly, The Village Voice, hippest newspaper in America. He was a jazz critic before anyone else thought jazz worth writing about, and good friends with some of the most important jazz musicians of the century. He marched against the Vietnam war and racial discrimination. He loudly and constantly defended the most radical possible version of civil rights, becoming famous—or notorious, depending on your point of view—for defending the rights of neo-Nazis to march in a heavily Jewish town.
How a teenager on hospice inspired many
How a Teenager on Hospice Inspired ManyLOONEY: For years I heard about one family in particular—about how their dad was an artist and then about the health problems of their daughter. Even though I was assigned to a parish in the same city in which they lived, our paths never crossed. That was, until a friend and I were planning a trip to France. I needed to do some research at two different places in France, and decided to make an eight-day trip. In my youth, I fostered a love for the apparitions in Lourdes ever since I watched the Song of Bernadette. I was going to France. Lourdes is in France. I could not go to France and not go to Lourdes. And so a hopper flight from Paris was booked! My friend going on the trip knew the artist family with the sickly daughter...
A meditation on the story of Jonah
A Meditation on the Story of Jonah - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: To defy means to resist what one is told to do, openly and boldly. Defiance also indicates a lack of faith because it comes from the Latin “dis” (against) and “fidere” (believe). Hence Jonah is not just insubordinate; he is unbelieving and untrusting.
His scoffing and defiance likely result from hatred or excessive nationalism. Nineveh is the capital of Syria, the mortal enemy of Israel. Jonah instinctively knows that if they repent of their sinfulness, they will grow stronger. Rather than trusting God, he brazenly disobeys, foolishly thinking he can outrun God.
His scoffing and defiance likely result from hatred or excessive nationalism. Nineveh is the capital of Syria, the mortal enemy of Israel. Jonah instinctively knows that if they repent of their sinfulness, they will grow stronger. Rather than trusting God, he brazenly disobeys, foolishly thinking he can outrun God.
Pope Francis confirms Msgr. Fernando Ocáriz as prelate of Opus Dei
Pope Francis names Mgr Fernando Oc�riz prelate of Opus Dei - Opus Dei: This evening, Pope Francis has named Mgr Fernando Ocáriz Braña prelate of Opus Dei. The Holy Father confirmed the election of the third elective congress of the prelature in the same day.
With this appointment, Monsignor Fernando Ocáriz, who until now has been Auxiliary Vicar of Opus Dei, becomes the third successor of Saint Josemaria at the head of the prelature, following the death of Mgr Javier EchevarrÃa, this past December 12th.
With this appointment, Monsignor Fernando Ocáriz, who until now has been Auxiliary Vicar of Opus Dei, becomes the third successor of Saint Josemaria at the head of the prelature, following the death of Mgr Javier EchevarrÃa, this past December 12th.
To my sisters who marched on Washington
To my sisters who marched on Washington – Mama Needs CoffeeUEBBING: I wanted to write something snarky. I wanted to dash off line after line of statistics and data supporting the appalling abuse committed against women and children in the name of “progress” and “equality.” I wanted to drop blistering one-liners about losing our bearings, rejecting our feminist roots and blowing past all the other pertinent issues surrounding women’s freedoms that don’t originate in the pelvic region.
But then I watched some of the coverage of the marches – the big one in Washington and the smaller ones around the country and the world. And I read real women’s stories and saw their tear-streaked faces and I recognized myself in each of them, pink hats notwithstanding.
Because we are all of us desperate for love.
But then I watched some of the coverage of the marches – the big one in Washington and the smaller ones around the country and the world. And I read real women’s stories and saw their tear-streaked faces and I recognized myself in each of them, pink hats notwithstanding.
Because we are all of us desperate for love.
President Trump restores Mexico City Policy, blocks NGOs from receiving federal abortion money
President Trump Restores Mexico City Policy | ncregister.com: On Monday, President Donald Trump reinstated the Mexico City Policy, an international pro-life regulation that is generally seen as an indicator of an incoming president’s views on abortion.
The executive order was signed Jan. 23, the Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children and one day after the anniversary of the far-reaching Roe v. Wade decision that mandated legal abortion throughout the U.S.
Originally instituted by President Ronald Reagan in 1984, the Mexico City Policy states that foreign non-governmental organizations may not receive federal funding if they perform or promote abortions as a method of family planning.
The executive order was signed Jan. 23, the Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children and one day after the anniversary of the far-reaching Roe v. Wade decision that mandated legal abortion throughout the U.S.
Originally instituted by President Ronald Reagan in 1984, the Mexico City Policy states that foreign non-governmental organizations may not receive federal funding if they perform or promote abortions as a method of family planning.
How to make a $1500 sandwich in only 6 months
New Advent: How to make a $1500 sandwich in only 6 months: “I spent 6 months and $1500 to completely make a sandwich from scratch. Including growing my own vegetables, making my own salt from ocean water, milking a cow to make cheese, grinding my own flour from wheat, collecting my own honey, and killing a chicken myself.”
Of godchildren, detox and RCIA
Of Godchildren, Detox, and RCIA | God-Haunted LunaticBECKER: My students were finding their seats, pulling notebooks out of bags, silencing their phones (praise God!). One of them, Michaela, had recently started a regular babysitting gig for a former student of mine and her young family – a young family that happens to include my godson, Dominic.
“How’s my godson doing?” I asked Mic. “Didn’t you sit for him last night?”
“Yes,” she replied. “He’s doing fine – he’s so cute!” I smiled – no argument there.
Next to Michaela sat Kat, another of my med-surg students, who piped up, “How many godchildren do you have anyway?”
“How’s my godson doing?” I asked Mic. “Didn’t you sit for him last night?”
“Yes,” she replied. “He’s doing fine – he’s so cute!” I smiled – no argument there.
Next to Michaela sat Kat, another of my med-surg students, who piped up, “How many godchildren do you have anyway?”
Recalling Father Michael Scanlan's sage advice about social media
Recalling Father Scanlan's sage advice on social mediaLOPEZ: I was far from alone in being saddened by the death of Father Michael Scanlon, T.O.R., the longtime leader of the Franciscan University of Steubenville in Ohio.
Admittedly, this is one of those times when the sadness is a bit selfish. The holy man deserves rest and reward. But as we pray that he may see the face of God with haste, Maybe it’s the journalist in me, but I can’t be alone in having this lingering thought: What if we could ask him one more question?
In my case, there is the additional reality of a foggy memory: I didn’t take notes when you told me your Bill Buckley story and I completely forget what it is. (As an editor at National Review, people are always telling us stories about when they started reading the magazine William F. Buckley Jr. founded. It’s a great blessing, one I should have been filling notebooks with for years. If you have a story, feel free to email me and tell me again!)
Admittedly, this is one of those times when the sadness is a bit selfish. The holy man deserves rest and reward. But as we pray that he may see the face of God with haste, Maybe it’s the journalist in me, but I can’t be alone in having this lingering thought: What if we could ask him one more question?
In my case, there is the additional reality of a foggy memory: I didn’t take notes when you told me your Bill Buckley story and I completely forget what it is. (As an editor at National Review, people are always telling us stories about when they started reading the magazine William F. Buckley Jr. founded. It’s a great blessing, one I should have been filling notebooks with for years. If you have a story, feel free to email me and tell me again!)
SNL Susan B. Anthony skit: Her pro-life message is true to life
Saturday Night Live Susan B. Anthony Skit: Her Pro-Life Message Is True to Life | National ReviewLOPEZ: Serrin Foster has been talking about Susan B. Anthony probably for as long as she can remember. She’s with Feminists for Life, and a Saturday Night Live skit recently sent her into overdrive. An unlikely gift for a group that aims to educate women about nonviolence in the face of legal abortion, a recent skit on the comedy show ended with Anthony saying to group of modern women at the end of a museum tour of her home, “Abortion is murder.”
Could she have said anything more uncouth? Such was the reaction, which appeared to be a mix of indignation and bewilderment.
Could she have said anything more uncouth? Such was the reaction, which appeared to be a mix of indignation and bewilderment.
President Donald Trump signs executive order to defund International Planned Parenthood
President Donald Trump Signs Executive Order to Defund International Planned Parenthood | LifeNews.com: President Donald Trump today signed an executive order to defund International Planned Parenthood.
Most pro-life Americans are anxiously awaiting Congress to pass a bill to defund the Planned Parenthood abortion business. While that defunding legislation concerns the domestic-based Planned Parenthood abortion corporation, President Trump has the ability to put in place an executive order that would revoke funding for its International affiliate.
Most pro-life Americans are anxiously awaiting Congress to pass a bill to defund the Planned Parenthood abortion business. While that defunding legislation concerns the domestic-based Planned Parenthood abortion corporation, President Trump has the ability to put in place an executive order that would revoke funding for its International affiliate.
What time do Americans get to work?
What Time Do Americans Get to Work?: I wanted to create a visualization showing the time that Americans say they arrive at their work place, so I gathered data from the American Community Survey. I used Tableau to create the visualization and excel to help me with some of the data editing. The data comes from the 2015 ACS 1 Year Public Use Microdata Sample which can be found on the ACS Website..
I decided to use ACS PUMS instead of the published data tables because the published tables have unequal time intervals that I think are meant to show fairly similar group sizes. The PUMS data though has this variable broken out into 5 minute time intervals except for three instances where it is a 10 minute interval. I went ahead and combined the data into 15 minute intervals using the Tableau’s calculated field option, some excel functions, and the ACS PUMS Data Dictionary. I also did some work with some other variables so that you can filter the data by state of residency, sex, and the class of worker. The result of this work is shown in the visualization.
I decided to use ACS PUMS instead of the published data tables because the published tables have unequal time intervals that I think are meant to show fairly similar group sizes. The PUMS data though has this variable broken out into 5 minute time intervals except for three instances where it is a 10 minute interval. I went ahead and combined the data into 15 minute intervals using the Tableau’s calculated field option, some excel functions, and the ACS PUMS Data Dictionary. I also did some work with some other variables so that you can filter the data by state of residency, sex, and the class of worker. The result of this work is shown in the visualization.
SNAP and Fittipaldi: Two missed opportunities for real reform on sex abuse
Two missed opportunities for real reform on sex abuseALLEN: Two stories broke this week regarding the Church’s clerical sexual abuse scandals, one in Italy and the other in the States, and in different ways, each speaks to a missed opportunity. In Italy, a book came out titled Lussuria: Peccati, Scandali e Tradimenti di una Chiesa Fatta di Uomini (“Lust: Sins, Scandals and Betrayals of a Church Made of Men”) by journalist Emiliano Fittipaldi, one of the five defendants in last year’s “Vatileaks 2.0” trial pivoting on leaked documents from a papal commission on Vatican finances.
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