Friday, June 30, 2017
Archbishop Paglia’s statement on the Charlie Gard case is a disgrace
Vatican’s Charlie Gard Statement Sides with State over Family | National ReviewDOUGHERTY: Charlie Gard, an infant, is going to die without a treatment that his parents wish to deploy against his mitochondrial DNA depletion syndrome, a treatment that they can afford thanks to the generosity of others. The highest court in Europe has sided with the English hospital’s wishes that Charlie “die with dignity” over his parents’ wish that he be released into their custody to try an experimental treatment in America. Further, it is decided by the principalities and powers that Charlie is going to die in that hospital even though his parents would at least wish for him to come home with them.
7 summer book suggestions for Catholic Bookstore Month
Summer books for Catholic Bookstore Month - Denver CatholicSTAUDT: Summer offers us leisure—time for family, travels, and reading. July also provides an opportunity to highlight the importance of Catholic bookstores, with the third annual Catholic bookstore month. The Archdiocese of Denver has a number of Catholic stores, located within parishes and operating independently. Take advantage of summer to find some extra reading time, checking out a nearby Catholic bookstore and reading some great, Catholic books. Here are a few ideas.
‘Despicable Me 3’ (Rotten Tomatoes 62%) feels worse than a desperate sequel
SDG Reviews ‘Despicable Me 3’ | ncregister.comGREYDANUS: To call Despicable Me 3 desperate would be to ascribe too much effort and passion to the thing. Ice Age: Collision Course, now: There was a properly desperate sequel. That beast had a blissed-out hippie temple of eternal youth formed out of radioactive crystals from space that the prehistoric heroes had to launch into orbit in order to avert a doomsday asteroid. That might not be the Platonic essence of desperation in its chemically purest form, but it’s really close. �
Is Cardinal Müller being dismissed?
Cardinal M�ller to Be Dismissed? | ncregister.comPENTIN: Three Vatican sources, including one close to the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, have told the Register this evening that Cardinal Gerhard Mueller is to be imminently dismissed as prefect of the dicastery, although the Vatican itself has not officially confirmed the news.
If true, an announcement is likely tomorrow.
If true, an announcement is likely tomorrow.
St. Thomas Aquinas would heartily agree with this article from The Atlantic
The Best Way to Disagree Is to Take on Your Political Opponents' Strongest Arguments - The Atlantic: For Joshua Johnson, the host of 1A, an NPR talk show inspired by the First Amendment, Americans can better thrive despite their differences and disagreements by taking inspiration from the courageous lead character in a modern classic.
For all the spectacles the Vatican tends to witness, this one was simply surreal
Whispers in the Loggia: For The Cardinal-Prefect, My Day in CourtPALMO: For all the spectacles the Vatican tends to witness, this one was simply surreal.
At the same dais where the Pope's major documents are unveiled and the global press briefed on Catholicism's showcase events – on what's usually one of the most joyous feasts of the year – today the Curia's third-ranking cardinal addressed his new fate as the church's most senior figure by far to face criminal charges of sexual abuse:
At the same dais where the Pope's major documents are unveiled and the global press briefed on Catholicism's showcase events – on what's usually one of the most joyous feasts of the year – today the Curia's third-ranking cardinal addressed his new fate as the church's most senior figure by far to face criminal charges of sexual abuse:
Pray for priests! An urgent call based on a teaching by Robert Cardinal Sarah
Pray for Priests! An Urgent Call Based on a Teaching by Robert Cardinal Sarah - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: One of the most consistent concerns expressed both by my readers and by attendees at the various talks I give, is the large number of tepid and problematic clergy. We clergy give our people much to endure, yet for the most part they are so very patient and loving with us despite our foibles and idiosyncrasies.
Most of the people are highly concerned about the widespread silence and/or vagueness of the clergy in the face of the grave moral meltdown in our culture. At best, many pulpits are silent or replete with abstractions and generalities. At worst, some pulpits and clerical teaching contain outright errors or ambiguities that (intentionally or not) mislead and confuse the faithful.
Most of the people are highly concerned about the widespread silence and/or vagueness of the clergy in the face of the grave moral meltdown in our culture. At best, many pulpits are silent or replete with abstractions and generalities. At worst, some pulpits and clerical teaching contain outright errors or ambiguities that (intentionally or not) mislead and confuse the faithful.
Priests need real “friends” too, says pope
Priests need real “friends” too, says pope: Being a true friend to priests and seminarians is a great gift the laity can offer to the Church, Pope Francis said on the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
Addressing lay men and women from Serra International, a group dedicated to promoting vocations to the priesthood and religious life, the pope lamented that the word “friend” has become a bit overused today, especially on social media.
He also called on laity to recover the true meaning of friendship revealed to us in Jesus Christ.
Addressing lay men and women from Serra International, a group dedicated to promoting vocations to the priesthood and religious life, the pope lamented that the word “friend” has become a bit overused today, especially on social media.
He also called on laity to recover the true meaning of friendship revealed to us in Jesus Christ.
Receiving a prophet: Readings for the 13th Sunday of Ordinary Time
The Sacred Page: Receiving a Prophet: Readings for the 13th Sunday of Ordinary TimeBERGSMA: God is generous, and he rewards those who help his servants as generously as he rewards his servants themselves. That is the message of the Readings for this 13th Sunday of Ordinary Time.� We begin with an account from 2 Kings concerning the reward of a wife of the town of Shunem, who was consistently gracious to the prophet Elisha.� In the Gospel Reading, Jesus proclaims a blessing on all those who give succor, refuge, and assistance to those he sends out to proclaim the Good News.� This Sunday’s Readings complement last Sunday’s, which emphasized the violent reaction that the proclamation of the Gospel often receives. This Sunday, on the other hand, we are reminded that not everyone opposes the Good News, and those who assist in its spread will be rewarded along with the messengers themselves.
German lawmakers vote to legalize ‘same-sex marriage’
News from The Associated Press: German lawmakers voted Friday to legalize same-sex marriage, a move widely supported across the country that brings Germany in line with many of its Western peers. Chancellor Angela Merkel voted against the measure, but paved the way for its passage by allowing members of her conservative party to vote according to their conscience.
Lawmakers voted 393-226 to legalize "marriage for everybody," with four abstentions. Underlining the delicate political tightrope that Merkel walked, the "no" votes came entirely from her conservative bloc, although some prominent party members, including Defense Minister Ursula von der Leyen and her chief of staff Peter Altmaier, voted for it.
Lawmakers voted 393-226 to legalize "marriage for everybody," with four abstentions. Underlining the delicate political tightrope that Merkel walked, the "no" votes came entirely from her conservative bloc, although some prominent party members, including Defense Minister Ursula von der Leyen and her chief of staff Peter Altmaier, voted for it.
Thursday, June 29, 2017
Bishop Paprocki and his critics: someone here is unhinged
Bishop Paprocki and his critics: someone here is unhinged | Catholic CultureLAWLER: Liberal Catholics are badly rattled by Bishop Thomas Paprocki’s decree that Catholics engaged in same-sex marriage cannot receive the sacraments in his Springfield diocese. So badly rattled, in fact, that…
The excitable Michael Sean Winters of the National Catholic Reporter argues that Bishop Paprocki “should be sacked.” In a column that carried a headline referring to the bishop’s decree as “unhinged” (and “unhinged” is a good word to use here, although not for the Paprocki policy) Winters says that the bishop’s stand “warrants the extreme sanction of removal from office proposed in the motu proprio Come una madre amorevole. As you may recall, Come una madre amorevole was released by Pope Francis just a year ago, detailing how a bishop could be removed from office if he had “committed or omitted acts that have caused grave harm to others.”
The excitable Michael Sean Winters of the National Catholic Reporter argues that Bishop Paprocki “should be sacked.” In a column that carried a headline referring to the bishop’s decree as “unhinged” (and “unhinged” is a good word to use here, although not for the Paprocki policy) Winters says that the bishop’s stand “warrants the extreme sanction of removal from office proposed in the motu proprio Come una madre amorevole. As you may recall, Come una madre amorevole was released by Pope Francis just a year ago, detailing how a bishop could be removed from office if he had “committed or omitted acts that have caused grave harm to others.”
How sentimentality leads young Catholics astray about homosexuality
How Sentimentality Leads Young Catholics Astray About Homosexuality | ncregister.comMATTSON: Since coming back to the Church after having a same-sex relationship, I have often been asked to speak to young people about the Church’s teaching on chastity and homosexuality.
These are challenging conversations, since it seems that most young Catholics today tend to believe that the Church’s teaching that calls men like me to live lives guided by chastity is outdated and needlessly cruel.
Many of these children are otherwise strong in core issues of the faith. Parents and teachers at these events often seem mystified why a young person would be willing to save sex for marriage, avoid pornography and decry the evil of abortion, yet at the same time support same-sex “marriage” and homosexual relationships. For many, this seems an odd juxtaposition.
These are challenging conversations, since it seems that most young Catholics today tend to believe that the Church’s teaching that calls men like me to live lives guided by chastity is outdated and needlessly cruel.
Many of these children are otherwise strong in core issues of the faith. Parents and teachers at these events often seem mystified why a young person would be willing to save sex for marriage, avoid pornography and decry the evil of abortion, yet at the same time support same-sex “marriage” and homosexual relationships. For many, this seems an odd juxtaposition.
What the prodigal son’s father teaches us about love and truth
What The Prodigal Son’s Father Teaches Us About Love and Truth | ncregister.comCLARK: Of all the parables, the story of the Prodigal Son is perhaps the most beloved. Many of us who have encountered the Father of Mercies in the sacrament of Penance see a parallel to our own lives, as well we should. Yet, one aspect of this parable is often overlooked—it is lesson about love, truth, and the vital connection between the two.
The parable does not explain exactly why the prodigal son wanted to leave home, but we do know this: he no longer wanted to live with his father. The son seemed sick and tired of living according to his father’s rules; instead, the son wished to live under his own set of rules, which is to say, no rules at all.
The parable does not explain exactly why the prodigal son wanted to leave home, but we do know this: he no longer wanted to live with his father. The son seemed sick and tired of living according to his father’s rules; instead, the son wished to live under his own set of rules, which is to say, no rules at all.
Cardinal Pell takes leave of absence to address sexual abuse allegations
Cardinal Pell Takes Leave of Absence to Address Sexual Abuse Allegations | ncregister.comPENTIN: Cardinal George Pell has strenuously denied the charges related to allegations of “historical sexual offenses” filed against him Thursday by Australian police, and said he welcomes the opportunity to finally defend himself in court.
He also disclosed he had been granted a leave of absence by Pope Francis, in order to address the legal charges.
Speaking to reporters at the Vatican this morning, the prefect of the Secretariat for the Economy (SPE) said he is “innocent of these charges, they are false” and that the “whole idea of sexual abuse is abhorrent to me.”
He also disclosed he had been granted a leave of absence by Pope Francis, in order to address the legal charges.
Speaking to reporters at the Vatican this morning, the prefect of the Secretariat for the Economy (SPE) said he is “innocent of these charges, they are false” and that the “whole idea of sexual abuse is abhorrent to me.”
Yelling in the confessional? Yes, that was me...
Yelling in the Confessional - AleteiaSCALIA: So, recently, I found myself in one of those funks that sometimes happens to Catholics, where a bad mood, emotions, a weariness of perfunctory liturgy and the devil’s own wiles all work together to bring a soul down, and I just did not go to Sunday Mass.
I had (unintentionally) missed a holy day of obligation earlier in the week, and a family function kept me from confession on Saturday, so when Sunday rolled around, the bad mood, the emotions, the weariness, the devil, and did I mention the bad mood, all made me feel rebellious and also hopeless. Everything was terrible. What was the point of going to Mass?
I had (unintentionally) missed a holy day of obligation earlier in the week, and a family function kept me from confession on Saturday, so when Sunday rolled around, the bad mood, the emotions, the weariness, the devil, and did I mention the bad mood, all made me feel rebellious and also hopeless. Everything was terrible. What was the point of going to Mass?
On the third day of the new creation, God established the Chair of Peter
On the Third Day of the New Creation, God Established the Chair of Peter – Homiletic & Pastoral ReviewTSAKANIKAS: It was not on accident that John chose to start his Gospel with the words “In the beginning...” A picture paints a thousand words, but in John’s case: three words painted with the power of a thousand reinforcing images. In three words, all the images of Genesis and the first creation were brought back to announce something greater. Those three famous words, “In the beginning,” were John’s declaration that God had begun a new creation; establishing new light, new waters, and a new earth in which his blessings would flow … all of them made possible through Jesus, the new man (Rom 5), the ultimate Adam (1 Cor 15:45-47), the new covenant. Just as Genesis opens with the announcement—“In the beginning...”—and the defining of the days of creation, so God’s establishment of his new creation—God with us as a man—heralded the defining of new days, and important new life-supporting structures.
Could Cardinal George Pell's prosecution have anything to do with Vatican financial reform?
Cardinal George Pell -- Vatican Bank Reform & His Persecution | National ReviewWEIGEL: Let’s get the “full disclosure” out of the way up front: Cardinal George Pell and I have been friends for 50 years, and collaborators in different projects for 25.
The Victoria police in his native Australia have now announced that they are filing “multiple charges in respect to historic sexual offenses” against Pell. This has come as no surprise to those familiar with the fantastic campaign of false allegations of sexual abuse that has been conducted against the cardinal: allegations of which he has been consistently exonerated. But despite that fact — or perhaps because of it — the campaign has recently intensified Down Under, creating a thoroughly poisonous public climate exacerbated by poorly sourced but widely disseminated allegations, no respect for elementary fairness, and a curious relationship between elements of the Australian media and the Victoria police during the two years the investigation leading to the current changes has been underway.
The Victoria police in his native Australia have now announced that they are filing “multiple charges in respect to historic sexual offenses” against Pell. This has come as no surprise to those familiar with the fantastic campaign of false allegations of sexual abuse that has been conducted against the cardinal: allegations of which he has been consistently exonerated. But despite that fact — or perhaps because of it — the campaign has recently intensified Down Under, creating a thoroughly poisonous public climate exacerbated by poorly sourced but widely disseminated allegations, no respect for elementary fairness, and a curious relationship between elements of the Australian media and the Victoria police during the two years the investigation leading to the current changes has been underway.
Sex abuse scandal has followed Cardinal George Pell for decades
Sex abuse scandal has followed Cardinal George Pell for decades - The Washington Post: In 1993, George Pell was a rising star in the Catholic Church in Australia, his résumé sterling, his ambition well-known. After receiving a PhD from Oxford, he spent more than a decade as education vicar in the Victorian city of Ballarat, then rose to become auxiliary bishop of Melbourne.
So that year, when his onetime housemate and former chaplain of a Ballarat religious school was charged with sexually assaulting young boys, Pell’s superiors called on him for support.
So that year, when his onetime housemate and former chaplain of a Ballarat religious school was charged with sexually assaulting young boys, Pell’s superiors called on him for support.
Cardinal Pell: ‘I’m looking forward to finally having my day in court’
Cardinal Pell: I’m Looking Forward to Having My Day in Court | ncregister.comPENTIN: The Holy See has stressed the Secretariat for the Economy will continue its work after Pope Francis gave its prefect, Cardinal George Pell, a leave of absence to defend himself in court against sexual assault charges.
Earlier on Thursday, Victoria police decided to charge the cardinal “in respect to historic sexual offenses.”
Cardinal Pell has vigorously denied the charges, telling reporters at the Vatican this morning that he has been subjected to “relentless character assassination” and that news of the allegations strengthens his resolve and offers him the opportunity to clear his name.
Earlier on Thursday, Victoria police decided to charge the cardinal “in respect to historic sexual offenses.”
Cardinal Pell has vigorously denied the charges, telling reporters at the Vatican this morning that he has been subjected to “relentless character assassination” and that news of the allegations strengthens his resolve and offers him the opportunity to clear his name.
Religious liberty wins again in the Supreme Court
Religious Liberty Wins Again in the Supreme Court - Crisis MagazineASCIK: In its decision in Trinity Lutheran v. Comer this week, the Supreme Court took another significant step in furthering its contemporary jurisprudence emphasizing the free exercise of religion.
Trinity Lutheran Church operates a daycare and early-learning center on its church property in Boone County, Missouri. The church explicitly states that its early learning program is one of its ministries, and that it includes “daily religion … activities” according to “a Christian world view.” The church applied to a program of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources for a grant to repave its playground with recycled automobile tires.
Trinity Lutheran Church operates a daycare and early-learning center on its church property in Boone County, Missouri. The church explicitly states that its early learning program is one of its ministries, and that it includes “daily religion … activities” according to “a Christian world view.” The church applied to a program of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources for a grant to repave its playground with recycled automobile tires.
Archbishop Vincenzo Paglia, president of the Pontifical Academy for Life, issues statement on baby Charlie Gard
Vatican's Academy for Life issues statement on baby Charlie Gard - Vatican Radio: The Vatican’s Pontifical Academy for Life has issued a statement regarding the case of the terminally-ill English baby, Charlie Gard.
On Tuesday the European Court of Human Rights rejected a plea from the baby’s parents to be allowed to move him to the United States for experimental medical treatment.
On Tuesday the European Court of Human Rights rejected a plea from the baby’s parents to be allowed to move him to the United States for experimental medical treatment.
Everything you never wanted to know about how ticks hunt you (and how to avoid them)
Everything you never wanted to know about how ticks hunt you (and how to avoid them) | Popular Science: You're probably already a little afraid of ticks. Sure, there are plenty of more existentially upsetting creatures dwelling deep in the ocean or lurking in dank caves. But you’re unlikely to have to actually deal with any of them, and you're certainly not going to run into a deep sea nightmare monster while you're just strolling around minding your own business. Ticks, on the other hand, are everywhere.
Ticks carry over a dozen diseases, literally inflate with blood, drill tiny holes in your skin, and oh, did we mention that actually actively hunt for you? So there’s that.
Ticks carry over a dozen diseases, literally inflate with blood, drill tiny holes in your skin, and oh, did we mention that actually actively hunt for you? So there’s that.
Wednesday, June 28, 2017
The goal of a Catholic family is to become a family of saints
Mark Shea: There's more to the Church than priestly and religious lifeSHEA: It’s all well and good to pray for your kids to discern a religious vocation and to encourage them to consider the possibility that, of all the possible vocations God may have for them, a religious one is among them.
But to say that any vocation but one in religious or ordained life is a failure is to radically misunderstand Catholic theology and ecclesiology. It is also to badly misunderstand what Jesus’ mission is.
Note the language: “Christ did not need to die and rise from the dead to allow men to do these things”. “Allow”? On the contrary, “Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom” (2 Cor 3:17). Jesus’ mission is to redeem the whole world, not just priests and religious.
But to say that any vocation but one in religious or ordained life is a failure is to radically misunderstand Catholic theology and ecclesiology. It is also to badly misunderstand what Jesus’ mission is.
Note the language: “Christ did not need to die and rise from the dead to allow men to do these things”. “Allow”? On the contrary, “Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom” (2 Cor 3:17). Jesus’ mission is to redeem the whole world, not just priests and religious.
European Court sides with UK in Charlie Gard case, rejects parents’ appeal for treatment in US
Charlie Gard parents lose European court appeal - BBC News: Judges at the European Court of Human Rights have rejected a plea from the parents of terminally-ill baby Charlie Gard to intervene in his case.
Chris Gard and Connie Yates lost their final legal bid to take their son to the US for treatment.
Specialists at Great Ormond Street Hospital believe Charlie has no chance of survival.
The court agreed, concluding that further treatment would "continue to cause Charlie significant harm".
Charlie is thought to be one of 16 children in the world to have mitochondrial depletion syndrome, a condition which causes progressive muscle weakness and brain damage.
His parents had previously seen a Supreme Court challenge to continue Charlie's life support fail.
Chris Gard and Connie Yates lost their final legal bid to take their son to the US for treatment.
Specialists at Great Ormond Street Hospital believe Charlie has no chance of survival.
The court agreed, concluding that further treatment would "continue to cause Charlie significant harm".
Charlie is thought to be one of 16 children in the world to have mitochondrial depletion syndrome, a condition which causes progressive muscle weakness and brain damage.
His parents had previously seen a Supreme Court challenge to continue Charlie's life support fail.
In ‘stunning’ development, Australian police charge Cardinal Pell with sexual assault
George Pell: Australia Charges Cardinal With Sex Assault | Time.com: Australian police charged a top Vatican cardinal on Thursday with multiple counts of historical sexual assault offenses, a stunning decision certain to rock the highest levels of the Holy See. Cardinal George Pell, Pope Francis' chief financial adviser and Australia's most senior Catholic, is the highest-ranking Vatican official to ever be charged in the church's long-running sexual abuse scandal.
Who's who in the movie credits, from directors to best boy grips
New Advent: Who's who in the movie credits, from directors to best boy grips: Have you ever sat through the end credits waiting for the post-credit teaser and wondered what exactly do all those people do? We’ll break down the positions in that sea of credits and explain who’s who on a major film production.
This tiny spider amazes scientists by shooting steel-strength silk 80 feet
New Advent: This tiny spider amazes scientists by shooting steel-strength silk 80 feet: Which marvel of nature can build a 2 metre Orb Web with a silk that ranks as the World's toughest natural fibre? - The answer is the Darwin's Bark Spider and this real life "Spider Woman", no bigger than a thumbnail has baffled scientists with her web of steel.
God hates divorce and all its carnage
The Carnage of Divorce - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: Almost two decades ago, as a younger priest, I remember trying to save a marriage. Sadly, by the second counseling session I concluded that the couple really had no intention of trying to save the marriage. Rather, they were looking to me to assuage their guilt and to console them by telling them they were really “doing the right thing,” that God wanted them to be happy and would not mind if they divorced. I could do no such thing.
At a critical moment the couple said, in effect, “We are really doing this for the sake of the children. We don’t want them to suffer with all of our bickering.” To which I replied, “Then stop the bickering!” As they looked at me incredulously, I went on to urge them to get whatever help they needed to work through their differences. I insisted that God hates divorce and that divorce is not good for children; reconciliation is what they want and need.
At a critical moment the couple said, in effect, “We are really doing this for the sake of the children. We don’t want them to suffer with all of our bickering.” To which I replied, “Then stop the bickering!” As they looked at me incredulously, I went on to urge them to get whatever help they needed to work through their differences. I insisted that God hates divorce and that divorce is not good for children; reconciliation is what they want and need.
The courageous Bishop Thomas Paprocki deserves your support, your prayers—and yes, maybe your money...
Christians Must Rally Behind Faithful Pastors like Thomas Paprocki | The StreamZMIRAK: This is a tough time for Christians. Implacable foes such as ISIS demand at the point of a sword that believers deny the Lord. I cannot fathom the terror and anguish that such believers face. I’ve heard first-hand accounts from Middle Eastern Christians, and before that from Christians whose families fled from Communist governments. I can’t know what I would do if put in their place.
Benedict XVI receives the new cardinals, speaks with them in various languages
Benedict XVI receives the new cardinals, and speaks with them in various languages - ROME REPORTS: After being created cardinals, Pope Francis accompanied the five new cardinals in their visit to a very special Vatican tenant, Pope Benedict XVI, who took off his zucchetto when he saw his successor.�
The cardinal of Laos was first to present himself, and spoke to the pope emeritus in French.
"I know you speak French."
"Do you speak French?"
"Yes.”
Benedict XVI met the five new cardinals and spoke with all of them in their native tongue, demonstrating once again his capacity for languages.�
The cardinal of Laos was first to present himself, and spoke to the pope emeritus in French.
"I know you speak French."
"Do you speak French?"
"Yes.”
Benedict XVI met the five new cardinals and spoke with all of them in their native tongue, demonstrating once again his capacity for languages.�
Father Solanus Casey beatification set for November 18 at Ford Field in Detroit
Father Solanus Casey beatification set for November :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): Venerable Solanus Casey, an American-born Capuchin priest who died in 1957 known for his ability as a spiritual counselor, will be beatified at a Nov. 18 Mass in Detroit, the local archdiocese announced Tuesday.
“We are filled with joy at receiving the final date of the beatification of Father Solanus,” Father Michael Sullivan, OFM Cap. and Provincial Minister of the Capuchin Franciscan Province of St. Joseph, said June 27. “It is a beautiful way to celebrate the 60th anniversary of his passing.”
Venerable Casey was known for his great faith, attention to the sick, and ability as a spiritual counselor.
“We are filled with joy at receiving the final date of the beatification of Father Solanus,” Father Michael Sullivan, OFM Cap. and Provincial Minister of the Capuchin Franciscan Province of St. Joseph, said June 27. “It is a beautiful way to celebrate the 60th anniversary of his passing.”
Venerable Casey was known for his great faith, attention to the sick, and ability as a spiritual counselor.
She has Down Syndrome but swam the English Channel—and she’s the first to receive an honorary doctorate
She Has Down Syndrome But Swam the English Channel and She's the First to Receive an Honorary Doctorate | LifeNews.com: A long distance swimmer who relay swam the English Channel, and an impressive and witty public speaker, Karen Gaffney is the first living person with Down Syndrome to receive an honorary doctorate.
She has captured global attention, not only for her personal achievements but for her work on inclusion for people with Down Syndrome and her challenge to a culture where babies with Down Syndrome are increasingly aborted before birth. Her message to the world is that All Lives Matter, and she challenges the trend which is eliminating people with Down Syndrome before they are born.
She has captured global attention, not only for her personal achievements but for her work on inclusion for people with Down Syndrome and her challenge to a culture where babies with Down Syndrome are increasingly aborted before birth. Her message to the world is that All Lives Matter, and she challenges the trend which is eliminating people with Down Syndrome before they are born.
Bishop Paprocki responds to controversy, criticisms over decree on same-sex “marriage”
Bishop Paprocki responds to controversy, criticisms over decree on same-sex “marriage” – Catholic World Report: “Speaking objectively,” says the Bishop of Springfield, Illinois, “… all those who have sexual relations outside of valid marriage, whether they are heterosexual or homosexual, should not receive Holy Communion unless they repent, go to confession and amend their lives. This includes the divorced and remarried without an annulment, as is well known from all the recent media attention on that issue.”
23 dangerous things you should let your kids do
23 Dangerous Things You Should Let Your Kids Do | The Art of Manliness: Even though the modern world isn’t any more dangerous than it was thirty or forty years ago, it feels like a more perilous place. Or, more accurately, we inhabit the world today in a way that’s much more risk averse; for a variety of very interesting and nuanced reasons, our tolerance for risk, especially concerning our children’s safety, has steadily declined.
So we remove jungle gyms from playgrounds, ban football at recess, prohibit knives (even the butter variety) at school, and would rather have our kids playing with an iPad than rummaging through the garage or roaming around the neighborhood.
So we remove jungle gyms from playgrounds, ban football at recess, prohibit knives (even the butter variety) at school, and would rather have our kids playing with an iPad than rummaging through the garage or roaming around the neighborhood.
The surprising complexity of running a gas station minimart
Gas Station Prices - How a Gas Station Works: I love hot dogs spun to plump, juicy perfection on the roller grill. Add a layer of melted nacho cheese straight out of the dispenser. Make it a meal with a 99-cent bag of Fritos, a fountain soda—half Hi-C orange/half Sprite in a Styrofoam cup—and a King-Size Kit Kat for dessert. That's comfort food to me. That's home. I grew up in a gas station.
Italian newspaper reveals confidential U.S. embassy assessments of Pope Francis
Italian paper reveals US embassy assessments of Pope Francis : News Headlines | Catholic Culture: The Italian daily La Stampa has published excerpts of memos from the US embassy at the Vatican to the Obama administration, offering insights on the policies and personality of Pope Francis.
In a message to Vice President Joseph Biden, shortly after the new Pope’s election, the embassy reported that “officials of the Curia are curious and nervous” about the new Pontiff. The message said that Pope Francis would not change Church doctrine—mentioning in particular the Church’s teachings on abortion, contraception, and homosexuality—but would be “sufficiently open to dialogue” so that the topics could be discussed.
In a message to Vice President Joseph Biden, shortly after the new Pope’s election, the embassy reported that “officials of the Curia are curious and nervous” about the new Pontiff. The message said that Pope Francis would not change Church doctrine—mentioning in particular the Church’s teachings on abortion, contraception, and homosexuality—but would be “sufficiently open to dialogue” so that the topics could be discussed.
A priest's cassock: Work clothes, not a dress uniform
The meaning of the cassock--Aleteia: The first day he put on a cassock, a seminarian got a letter from a friend, a few years his senior. This is what he learned about his cassock:
A cassock. Today in your eyes it is more beautiful than a bride’s dress. You are truly and rightfully happy wearing it; after all, you have been waiting for it since the time you entered the seminary.
I can only hope that you will be equally happy when it has come to be what its color implies, i.e. a deadly shroud and a dying uniform. Today it is a bride’s dress you enthuse over, along with your family and friends. Be as enthusiastic about it when it starts to be your solitary confinement, cage and furnace where God will melt and purify you, an uncomfortable hermitage.
A cassock. Today in your eyes it is more beautiful than a bride’s dress. You are truly and rightfully happy wearing it; after all, you have been waiting for it since the time you entered the seminary.
I can only hope that you will be equally happy when it has come to be what its color implies, i.e. a deadly shroud and a dying uniform. Today it is a bride’s dress you enthuse over, along with your family and friends. Be as enthusiastic about it when it starts to be your solitary confinement, cage and furnace where God will melt and purify you, an uncomfortable hermitage.
1,600-year-old basilica found underwater in what was ancient Nicaea
Underwater Byzantine basilica--Aleteia: The remains of a 1,600-year-old Byzantine basilica have been discovered at the site of the Councils of Nicaea, at the bottom of a lake in northwest Turkey.
“We have found church remains. It is in a basilica plan and has three naves,” said Mustafa Şahin, an archaeology professor at Bursa Uludağ University, told Hurriyet News.
Plans are now underway to open an underwater museum to allow tourists to view the foundation of the church, which was found lying in 5-7 feet of water in Lake Iznik, in Bursa, Turkey.
“We have found church remains. It is in a basilica plan and has three naves,” said Mustafa Şahin, an archaeology professor at Bursa Uludağ University, told Hurriyet News.
Plans are now underway to open an underwater museum to allow tourists to view the foundation of the church, which was found lying in 5-7 feet of water in Lake Iznik, in Bursa, Turkey.
‘Serve like Jesus’: Pope Francis creates five new cardinals at consistory
Pope Francis to Five New Cardinals: Jesus ‘Calls You to Serve Like Him and With Him’ | ncregister.com: On Wednesday, Pope Francis created five new cardinals, encouraging them to walk with Jesus, keeping their eyes fixed securely on the cross and on the realities of the world, not becoming distracted by prestige or honor.
“I speak above all to you, dear new cardinals. Jesus ‘is walking ahead of you,’ and he asks you to follow him resolutely on his way. He calls you to look at reality, not to let yourselves be distracted by other interests or prospects,” the Pope said June 28.
“He has not called you to become ‘princes’ of the Church, to ‘sit at his right or at his left.’ He calls you to serve like him and with him — to serve the Father and your brothers and sisters. He calls you to face as he did the sin of the world and its effects on today’s humanity. Follow him, and walk ahead of the holy people of God, with your gaze fixed on the Lord’s cross and resurrection.”
“I speak above all to you, dear new cardinals. Jesus ‘is walking ahead of you,’ and he asks you to follow him resolutely on his way. He calls you to look at reality, not to let yourselves be distracted by other interests or prospects,” the Pope said June 28.
“He has not called you to become ‘princes’ of the Church, to ‘sit at his right or at his left.’ He calls you to serve like him and with him — to serve the Father and your brothers and sisters. He calls you to face as he did the sin of the world and its effects on today’s humanity. Follow him, and walk ahead of the holy people of God, with your gaze fixed on the Lord’s cross and resurrection.”
3 hard sayings that challenge modern sensibilities
Three Hard Sayings that Challenge Modern Sensibilities - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: One of the reasons we are so easily offended today is, frankly, that we lack sophistication. We seem to have lost understanding of simile and metaphor.
Metaphors and similes are figures of speech; they achieve their effect through association, comparison, and resemblance. They can highlight hidden similarities between two different things.
A simile directly compares two different things and normally includes words such as “like,” “as,” or their equivalent. Similes are comparisons like this one: “He is as swift as a cheetah.”
Some references say that similes are just a specific subset of metaphors, while others say that metaphors cannot use the words “like” or “as.” But in either case, here is an example of a metaphor that is not a simile: “He’s a real workhorse.” Metaphors (that are not similes) are usually more effective (and subtle) than similes because the basis for comparison is often ambiguous. For example, if I were to observe someone doing something cruel I might say, “He’s a dog.” Now obviously I don’t think that he is actually a dog. Rather, I mean that he is manifesting some of the qualities of a dog. However, which quality or qualities he shares with an actual dog is left open to interpretation.
Metaphors and similes are figures of speech; they achieve their effect through association, comparison, and resemblance. They can highlight hidden similarities between two different things.
A simile directly compares two different things and normally includes words such as “like,” “as,” or their equivalent. Similes are comparisons like this one: “He is as swift as a cheetah.”
Some references say that similes are just a specific subset of metaphors, while others say that metaphors cannot use the words “like” or “as.” But in either case, here is an example of a metaphor that is not a simile: “He’s a real workhorse.” Metaphors (that are not similes) are usually more effective (and subtle) than similes because the basis for comparison is often ambiguous. For example, if I were to observe someone doing something cruel I might say, “He’s a dog.” Now obviously I don’t think that he is actually a dog. Rather, I mean that he is manifesting some of the qualities of a dog. However, which quality or qualities he shares with an actual dog is left open to interpretation.
Wandering in the Star Wars galaxy for forty years
Wandering in the Galaxy for Forty YearsFITZPATRICK: John Senior once wrote, “It isn’t necessary to document how much our music, architecture, poetry, art from Picasso, Stravinsky, and the Bauhaus to the popular stuff like Star Wars, are idolatries of force.” While it is interesting to see Star Wars ranked with the likes of Picasso and Stravinsky, it is even more interesting to think of Star Wars as part of a pantheon of a forced idolatry that has become the destiny of a generation of lost souls. Dr. Senior suggests that boundary-breaking, avant-garde trends in art, from Picasso to Star Wars, reflect that the world is wandering in a wilderness and forced to worship the golden idols of distraction—an idolatry that was given a new force with the advent of Star Wars.
Vatican breaks silence on forced disappearance of Chinese bishop
Vatican breaks silence on missing Chinese bishop ucanews.com: The Vatican has broken its silence over the forced disappearance of an underground bishop being held secretly somewhere in China by the communist government.
In response to questions from journalists, Greg Burke, the Vatican's spokesman, released a statement June 26 about Bishop Peter Shao Zhumin of Wenzhou who was taken by Chinese government officials from his diocese in eastern Zhejiang province on May 18.
"The Holy See is observing with grave concern the personal situation of Bishop Peter Shao Zhumin of Wenzhou, forcibly removed from his episcopal see some time ago," said the statement.
The statement went on to say that the government has given no reason for the bishop's disappearance and that the Holy See is "profoundly saddened" by what has occurred and for "other similar episodes that unfortunately do not facilitate ways of understanding."
In response to questions from journalists, Greg Burke, the Vatican's spokesman, released a statement June 26 about Bishop Peter Shao Zhumin of Wenzhou who was taken by Chinese government officials from his diocese in eastern Zhejiang province on May 18.
"The Holy See is observing with grave concern the personal situation of Bishop Peter Shao Zhumin of Wenzhou, forcibly removed from his episcopal see some time ago," said the statement.
The statement went on to say that the government has given no reason for the bishop's disappearance and that the Holy See is "profoundly saddened" by what has occurred and for "other similar episodes that unfortunately do not facilitate ways of understanding."
Tuesday, June 27, 2017
How global warming could help cool down the global sexual revolution
Global Warming and the Sexual Revolution | ncregister.comWIKER: Many Catholics dismiss the whole Global Warming brouhaha as a kind of intellectual and moral scam—and for serious reasons. First, Global Warming enthusiasts tend to be sexual revolution enthusiasts as well. When I went online to look for images of “tree-hugging” for a previous article, “Why Jesus Wants You To Hug Trees,” I found, much to my unsurprise, photos of de-clothed women hugging trees. That captures, in a flash, the problem with the Left. It can’t seem to detach its obsession with the environment, from its obsession with sexual libertinism. That obviously makes Catholics morally queasy, and so it should.
Burma’s Muslims are facing torture and execution—and one of their bravest defenders is Cardinal Bo
The Courageous Voice of Cardinal Bo on Behalf of Rohingya Muslims | arcoftheuniverse.infoPHILPOTT: One of the most impressive voices for justice in the global Catholic Church is Cardinal Charles Bo of Burma, who has recently spoken out against Burma’s Buddhist nationalist government for its atrocious treatment of its Rohingya Muslim minority. Unlike few other Burmese, he has been willing to name openly his government’s actions as ones of war crimes, crimes against humanity, and ethnic cleansing. Indeed, the government of Burma has displaced over 100,000 Rohingya and subjected them to arbitrary arrest and detention, torture, summary executions, and similar forms of repression.
Brides and grooms are living symbols of THE bride and groom
A Bride and Groom; The Bride and The Groom | Word On FireBARRON: Two weeks ago, I had the great good pleasure of presiding at the wedding of my niece, Bryna. She has been, all her life, a lovely girl, full of joy and good cheer—and eager to give herself in service to others. Her husband, Nelson, is also a fine person, and he took the courageous step of becoming a Catholic in anticipation of his wedding. So it was a joy to join my whole family in celebrating the coming-together of this splendid couple.
But in my homily for the wedding Mass, I pointed out that we were doing so much more than exulting in the goodness and happiness of these young people. For indeed, I explained, any secular romantic could so exult. We were gathered in church, precisely because we appreciated Bryna and Nelson as more than a young couple in love, as radiant as that is. We saw them as a sacred sign, a hint, a sacrament of Christ’s love for the Church. I pointed out how it is a peculiarity of Catholic theology that a couple exchanging vows at their wedding Mass do not so much receive a sacrament as they become a sacrament. Everyone gathered in church that day believed that Bryna and Nelson coming together was not a function of dumb chance; rather, it was the consequence of God’s active providence. God wanted them to find their salvation in each other’s company, which is to imply, God wanted them, as a couple, to carry out his salvific will.�
But in my homily for the wedding Mass, I pointed out that we were doing so much more than exulting in the goodness and happiness of these young people. For indeed, I explained, any secular romantic could so exult. We were gathered in church, precisely because we appreciated Bryna and Nelson as more than a young couple in love, as radiant as that is. We saw them as a sacred sign, a hint, a sacrament of Christ’s love for the Church. I pointed out how it is a peculiarity of Catholic theology that a couple exchanging vows at their wedding Mass do not so much receive a sacrament as they become a sacrament. Everyone gathered in church that day believed that Bryna and Nelson coming together was not a function of dumb chance; rather, it was the consequence of God’s active providence. God wanted them to find their salvation in each other’s company, which is to imply, God wanted them, as a couple, to carry out his salvific will.�
Are you ashamed of telling the truth?
Are you ashamed of telling the truth? | Knowing Is DoingTORRE: When engaged in conversation it’s not out of the ordinary to assume that the discussion would be sensible and truthful. The last thing we expect to hear is a tale so far-fetched that it makes no logical or moral sense. The irony here is that the basic definition of a conversation is to convey truth. In other words, when engaged in any conversation our natural inclination should be to speak honestly and charitably with a fellow human being and avoid “small talk” which in many instances barely amounts to substantive dialogue.
Taking this a step further our Catholic faith is not based on the “small talk” principle of conveying words with no meaning. Our language, demeanor and behavior is intimately and naturally bound to express genuine truth in a myriad of ways e.g. the way of Christ (Jn 18:37). This sounds reasonable until we are put in the position to convey a truth someone does not want to hear or acknowledge i.e. the Church’s teaching on marriage between one man and one women. And if this scenario does happen then your socially placed in the category of being a hypocrite for expressing your morally uncharitable views or in other words you are publicly shamed for communicating the Church’s teaching on marriage.
Taking this a step further our Catholic faith is not based on the “small talk” principle of conveying words with no meaning. Our language, demeanor and behavior is intimately and naturally bound to express genuine truth in a myriad of ways e.g. the way of Christ (Jn 18:37). This sounds reasonable until we are put in the position to convey a truth someone does not want to hear or acknowledge i.e. the Church’s teaching on marriage between one man and one women. And if this scenario does happen then your socially placed in the category of being a hypocrite for expressing your morally uncharitable views or in other words you are publicly shamed for communicating the Church’s teaching on marriage.
5 things you need to know about the great St. Irenaeus
St. Irenaeus: 5 Things You Need To Know - All Roads Lead to Rome: Today (Wednesday) is the feast day of St. Irenaeus of Lyons, one of the greatest minds of the Early Church, if not the greatest. You can find basically all of the Church's essential doctrines in sapling form in his writings. His writings are critical for defending the Church's teachings on the Eucharist, the Virgin Mother, the canon of Scripture, and more....
If you don't think missionary discipleship is the cure, you might not grasp the disease
If you don't think missionary discipleship is the cure, you might not grasp the disease. — L'Alto Catholic InstituteGLEMKOWSKI: The title of the interview was drawn from a remark made by Fr. Carron regarding why Pope Francis is such a compelling and controversial figure in our time. Even though Father himself is the head of an organization known historically for its conservative lean, he speculates that the reason many conservatives struggle with Pope Francis' gestures is that they may not have grasped the dire cultural situation in which we find ourselves in this post-modern era. Pope Francis is a radical antidote to a radical problem.
We taste-tested 10 hot dogs. Here are the best...
We Taste-Tested 10 Hot Dogs. Here Are the Best. - The New York Times: The New York Times Food department hasn’t taken a close look at hot dogs in some time. Back when hot dogs were on every list of foods to avoid — alarming additives, questionable cuts, salt and fat galore — home cooks didn’t want to know too much about what was in them.
But cooks are different now, and so are hot dogs. We want to know that what we’re eating is as good as it can be. Hot dogs are made from better ingredients, with fewer additives.
One thing hasn’t changed: Billions of hot dogs will be eaten at cookouts this summer, and serving them is one of the easiest ways we know to make people happy.
But cooks are different now, and so are hot dogs. We want to know that what we’re eating is as good as it can be. Hot dogs are made from better ingredients, with fewer additives.
One thing hasn’t changed: Billions of hot dogs will be eaten at cookouts this summer, and serving them is one of the easiest ways we know to make people happy.
Learn how to answer the hard questions about Jesus
Jesus, Interpreted - AleteiaHOOPES: vividly remember idling in a Kansas City Shell station waiting to get gas. Plenty of pumps were free — but I wasn’t. I was listening to author Bart Ehrman debunk New Testament passages on NPR and I didn’t want to miss any of it.
It was fascinating not because it was an attack on my faith, but because his critique didn’t sound like an attack at all. It had all the signs of being a clear-eyed and fair examination of the evidence for — and, for the most part, against — the divinity of Christ, the truth of the resurrection, the inerrancy of Scripture, and more.
It was fascinating not because it was an attack on my faith, but because his critique didn’t sound like an attack at all. It had all the signs of being a clear-eyed and fair examination of the evidence for — and, for the most part, against — the divinity of Christ, the truth of the resurrection, the inerrancy of Scripture, and more.
The last 10 years of the Church in China: From the Letter of Benedict XVI to the silence on the arrest of Msgr. Shao Zhumin
CHINA-VATICAN The last 10 years of the Church in China: from the Letter of Benedict XVI to the silence on the arrest of Msgr. Shao Zhumin: The silence on the persecution of Chinese Catholics and their bishops in Wenzhou and Shanghai. The organisms that Benedict XVI did not accept (Patriotic Association and Chinese Bishops' Conference) because "incompatible with Catholic doctrine" now govern the Church. Dialogue between China and the Vatican must address the issue of underground bishops out in the open and not under the shroud of secrecy. An analysis from a northeast Chinese Catholic, as the Vatican celebrates a new round of China-Holy See talks.
Pope names Msgr. Al Schlert as fifth Bishop of Allentown
Whispers in the Loggia: For Allentown, The Hat Is Home – Longtime VG Gets Upstate ChairPALMO: For the last twenty years, Msgr Al Schlert has been the closest collaborator to the last three bishops of Allentown.
And now, he's the Fifth Bishop of Allentown.
Deciding the next chapter of the 280,000-member upstate Pennsylvania fold in just over six months, at Roman Noon this Tuesday the Pope named the 55 year-old native son as successor to Bishop John Barres, who was transferred to Long Island's 1.6 million-Catholic behemoth of Rockville Centre last December. (At left, Schlert's seen at a 2016 event to support the horses of a local mounted police unit.)
With the move, the bishop-elect becomes the first Lehigh Valley product to head its local church since Allentown was spun off from the archdiocese of Philadelphia in 1961 (fittingly, the year of Schlert's birth). Then again, that independence was fairly cosmetic for most of the last half-century – until Barres' appointment in 2009, the diocese's first three bishops had all been auxiliaries down the Northeast Extension of the Turnpike, a quirk which made the place seem less its own shop than a vicariate of the Pharaohs, even as Allentown priests came to be named bishops elsewhere.
And now, he's the Fifth Bishop of Allentown.
Deciding the next chapter of the 280,000-member upstate Pennsylvania fold in just over six months, at Roman Noon this Tuesday the Pope named the 55 year-old native son as successor to Bishop John Barres, who was transferred to Long Island's 1.6 million-Catholic behemoth of Rockville Centre last December. (At left, Schlert's seen at a 2016 event to support the horses of a local mounted police unit.)
With the move, the bishop-elect becomes the first Lehigh Valley product to head its local church since Allentown was spun off from the archdiocese of Philadelphia in 1961 (fittingly, the year of Schlert's birth). Then again, that independence was fairly cosmetic for most of the last half-century – until Barres' appointment in 2009, the diocese's first three bishops had all been auxiliaries down the Northeast Extension of the Turnpike, a quirk which made the place seem less its own shop than a vicariate of the Pharaohs, even as Allentown priests came to be named bishops elsewhere.
Rescued hostages report kidnapped Filipino priest is still alive
Filipino priest held hostage seen alive in Marawiucanews.com: The Philippine military said a Catholic priest abducted by terrorist gunmen in the southern Philippines was seen alive on June 25, during a "humanitarian pause" in the conflict.
Father Teresito Soganub, vicar general of the Prelature of Marawi, was taken hostage on May 23 by terrorist gunmen who attacked the city of Marawi.
Army spokesman Lt. Col. Jo-Ar Herrera said the priest was seen alive in a part of the city that is still in the hands of the terrorists who claim to have links with the so-called Islamic State.
"We've got a lot of reports, especially from rescued civilians," said Herrera, adding that the priest was last seen by hostages before they were rescued on June 25.
Father Teresito Soganub, vicar general of the Prelature of Marawi, was taken hostage on May 23 by terrorist gunmen who attacked the city of Marawi.
Army spokesman Lt. Col. Jo-Ar Herrera said the priest was seen alive in a part of the city that is still in the hands of the terrorists who claim to have links with the so-called Islamic State.
"We've got a lot of reports, especially from rescued civilians," said Herrera, adding that the priest was last seen by hostages before they were rescued on June 25.
Monday, June 26, 2017
When you have less than a day at an abbey
When You Have Less Than a Day at an Abbey | ncregister.comBECKER: Wide-eyed and wonderful, Katharine was awed by the rocky terrain as we made our way north from Denver to Virginia Dale.
“Look at how high those mountains are,” she said.
“Actually, we’re hardly in the foothills yet,” I replied. “The mountains are even higher than this – see those snowy peaks over there?”
I pointed off to the west and explained that the mountaintops were so high and cold that the snow never melts there. Kath was quiet as she looked out the window. She’d spent virtually all of her 11 years in flat Indiana, although she’d seen some serious undulations in Illinois and Wisconsin. But this was her first visit to Colorado, and there was a lot to process.
“Look at how high those mountains are,” she said.
“Actually, we’re hardly in the foothills yet,” I replied. “The mountains are even higher than this – see those snowy peaks over there?”
I pointed off to the west and explained that the mountaintops were so high and cold that the snow never melts there. Kath was quiet as she looked out the window. She’d spent virtually all of her 11 years in flat Indiana, although she’d seen some serious undulations in Illinois and Wisconsin. But this was her first visit to Colorado, and there was a lot to process.
You're a man, not a rat, so don't take your marching orders from your belly
Don't Take Your Marching Orders From Your Belly | The Art of Manliness: During the Winter War, Finnish troops held off and often won astonishing victories against the Russian forces invading their country. Despite being vastly outnumbered and outgunned, they put up a heck of a fight by staying mobile, getting creative, and employing their most valuable weapon: their sisu, or grit.
One of their improbable successes, however, came not from the ardor of their tactics, but the aroma of their soup.
At 11:00 PM on December 10, 1939, a battalion of Soviet troops slipped undetected through the inky darkness and thick forests near Finland’s Tolvajärvi front, aiming to flank the line. Though few combat troops were stationed in the area being targeted — it was manned largely by medical and support personnel — the action would allow the Soviets to cut off the front’s only supply road. The Finns had launched many surprise attacks on the Russians; now the tables would be turned.
One of their improbable successes, however, came not from the ardor of their tactics, but the aroma of their soup.
At 11:00 PM on December 10, 1939, a battalion of Soviet troops slipped undetected through the inky darkness and thick forests near Finland’s Tolvajärvi front, aiming to flank the line. Though few combat troops were stationed in the area being targeted — it was manned largely by medical and support personnel — the action would allow the Soviets to cut off the front’s only supply road. The Finns had launched many surprise attacks on the Russians; now the tables would be turned.
The paradoxes of evangelization: Why simply imitating worldly marketing schemes may not be the answer
The Paradoxes of Evangelization: Why Simply Imitating the Worldly Marketing Schemes May Not Be the Answer - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: Even as we become more serious and practical about effective evangelization, we must also remember the paradox and the mysteries that underlie the growth of the Kingdom. We can and should strive to learn “best practices,” what makes for dynamic parishes and effective outreach, but even when many of these things are in place (e.g., good liturgy, dynamic preaching, Eucharistic adoration, welcoming parish), growth does not always come; sometimes numbers may even continue to decrease. Conversely, even in parishes where the liturgy is perfunctory, preaching is weak, and devotions are hurried, there may be significant growth. I know parishes that should be growing, but are not; I also know parishes that are growing almost in spite of themselves.
Learning hospitality with the Sisters of St. Bridget
Hospitality & Women Religious -- Bridgettines’ All-American Welcome | National ReviewLOPEZ: There are six sisters of the Order of the Most Holy Savior in the United States, and not one of them was born in the United States. Also known as the Sisters of St. Bridget, or the Bridgettines, the six hail from India and Mexico, with some time spent time at the motherhouse in Rome. The order, founded by Saint Bridget of Sweden, a patroness of Europe, was almost lost to history during the Reformation. In 1911, Maria Elizabeth Hesselblad, recently canonized a saint by Pope Francis, reestablished the order of women religious. Their most obvious distinguishing characteristic is the crown that tops the veils of these brides of Christ. It is marked by five red dots, signifying the wounds of Jesus on the cross.
Stunner: Ashton Kutcher's show shares pro-life message (warning: autoplay audio)
Stunner: Kutcher's Show Shares Pro-Life Message | LifeZette: Hollywood actor Ashton Kutcher’s character actually promoted a pro-life message in a recent episode of a Netflix original series.
Kutcher, 39 — a well-known liberal Democrat — plays “Colt” in the show “The Ranch.” During the premiere of its third season, Colt’s girlfriend gets pregnant — and wants to have an abortion.
Kutcher, 39 — a well-known liberal Democrat — plays “Colt” in the show “The Ranch.” During the premiere of its third season, Colt’s girlfriend gets pregnant — and wants to have an abortion.
Of coddling demons and auricular confession
Of Coddling Demons and Auricular Confession | God-Haunted LunaticBECKER: The Gospels are filled with weird scenes – which you’d expect from eyewitness accounts of an incarnate God. There’s no precedent for Jesus, no template or benchmark. He’s extraordinary in so many ways, so it’s no surprise that his actions and words would be extraordinary as well – at least on first hearing.
You know this from witnessing your own children thrill at the coming of Christmas when they were very young. The story of the Bethlehem invasion was fresh and exciting – and fantastic! The same goes for Passiontide as our young ones grew morose upon hearing of Jesus’ suffering and crucifixion, which transmuted into delight upon their discovery of Easter and the resurrection.
You know this from witnessing your own children thrill at the coming of Christmas when they were very young. The story of the Bethlehem invasion was fresh and exciting – and fantastic! The same goes for Passiontide as our young ones grew morose upon hearing of Jesus’ suffering and crucifixion, which transmuted into delight upon their discovery of Easter and the resurrection.
This man was abused by a priest, but he’s now a champion of the Church
Abused by a priest, now a champion of the church: The letter is in a folder on the mantel, near a crucifix that once belonged to a Catholic bishop.
Michael Vanderburgh sits a few feet away, sipping coffee and reading email on his phone. The sun isn’t up yet on this early January morning, but he’s trying to get a head start on work while the kids are still sleeping.
Michael can’t remember the last time he looked at the letter. Years, probably. He found it in a cabinet in the basement over the weekend, stashed with some old bills and receipts. He isn’t sure how he feels about seeing it again.
Michael Vanderburgh sits a few feet away, sipping coffee and reading email on his phone. The sun isn’t up yet on this early January morning, but he’s trying to get a head start on work while the kids are still sleeping.
Michael can’t remember the last time he looked at the letter. Years, probably. He found it in a cabinet in the basement over the weekend, stashed with some old bills and receipts. He isn’t sure how he feels about seeing it again.
Sci-fi writer John C. Wright reminds us of our true home, beyond the walls of the world
The Creative Catholic: John C. Wright�� – Catholic World ReportTURLEY: John C. Wright is an award-winning author of science-fiction novels and short stories whose work has appeared in numerous magazines, journals, and anthologies. He is also a practicing Catholic who has written about the intersections of faith and science fiction. He lives in Virginia with his wife and four children. He recently spoke with Catholic World Report about his creative process and inspirations, as well as the role his faith has played in his life and writing.
Catholic Comedian Jim Gaffigan takes kids to gay pride march, tweets support
Catholic Comedian Jim Gaffigan Tweets Support for Gay Pride in Defiance of Church Teaching | ChurchPOP: Comedian Jim Gaffigan, who has publicly identified himself as a Catholic, tweeted support for gay pride this weekend, in defiance to Catholic Church teaching that homosexual acts are immoral.
A layman’s advice to anxious young priests
Advice to priests - AleteiaMILLS: “I am scared and feel deeply inadequate for the task,” wrote my former student, a young man awaiting priestly ordination. I found his worries kind of charming, and reassuring. Having taught at a Protestant seminary with some very talented but very confident graduates, I wished more of them had gone into their ministries with the same hesitation. Pride precedes a fall, as Proverbs tells us (twice), and some had fallen a long way.
I offered my friend what advice I could, as a layman. Looking back, I think the advice applies to all of us when we begin a hard work we’re given to do. Marriage, for example, or parenting, or teaching CCD or RCIA if you’ve never taught adults, or talking to people about the Faith if you don’t like risking confrontation, or being a friend to the friendless if you’re shy. We may all find ourselves being young at something we have to do, no matter how old we are.
I offered my friend what advice I could, as a layman. Looking back, I think the advice applies to all of us when we begin a hard work we’re given to do. Marriage, for example, or parenting, or teaching CCD or RCIA if you’ve never taught adults, or talking to people about the Faith if you don’t like risking confrontation, or being a friend to the friendless if you’re shy. We may all find ourselves being young at something we have to do, no matter how old we are.
Supreme Court rules 7-2 for religious liberty in Trinity Lutheran case
Supreme Court declares churches eligible for public funds in Missouri playground case: The Supreme Court ruled decisively Monday that religious institutions should be eligible to receive public funds for purely secular purposes.
Like, for instance, playgrounds.
The justices ruled 7-2 that Missouri stretched the constitutional separation of church and state too far by declaring a Lutheran church ineligible to receive a competitive state grant for playground resurfacing. The decision could have implications for more than 30 states that block public funds from going to religious organizations.
Like, for instance, playgrounds.
The justices ruled 7-2 that Missouri stretched the constitutional separation of church and state too far by declaring a Lutheran church ineligible to receive a competitive state grant for playground resurfacing. The decision could have implications for more than 30 states that block public funds from going to religious organizations.
Supreme Court agrees to hear case over same-sex wedding cake
Supreme Court agrees to hear case over same-sex wedding cake | TheHill: The Supreme Court on Monday agreed to hear a case challenging whether a Colorado cake shop has to make a wedding cake for a gay couple.
The justices in the case — known as Masterpiece Cakeshop Ltd. v. Colorado Civil Rights — are being asked whether shop owner Jack Philips has to make a cake for Charlie Craig and David Mulliuns' same-sex marriage under Colorado's public accommodations law.
The justices in the case — known as Masterpiece Cakeshop Ltd. v. Colorado Civil Rights — are being asked whether shop owner Jack Philips has to make a cake for Charlie Craig and David Mulliuns' same-sex marriage under Colorado's public accommodations law.
Sunday, June 25, 2017
Pope’s Sunday Angelus: “Tribulations are part and parcel of evangelization”
Pope: still today Christians face trials and persecutions - Vatican Radio: Speaking to the faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square for the Angelus prayer, the Pope reflected on the liturgical reading of the day in which Jesus said to his disciples “Fear no one” but instructed them and prepared them to face the trials and persecutions the would suffer.
“Jesus’ mission, he said, did not guarantee the disciples success, nor did it shield them from failure or suffering.”
Likewise, the Pope said, Christians must consider the possibility of rejection and persecution: “this is a bit scary, but it is the truth.”
“Jesus’ mission, he said, did not guarantee the disciples success, nor did it shield them from failure or suffering.”
Likewise, the Pope said, Christians must consider the possibility of rejection and persecution: “this is a bit scary, but it is the truth.”
Saturday, June 24, 2017
Chasing Ernest: A journey to South Georgia to retrace the steps of Ernest Shackleton
Retracing Ernest Shackleton's Famous Antarctic Expedition in South Georgia Island: Twelve hundred miles off the southernmost tip of South America, there is a legendary place among travelers and historians. They speak of South Georgia Island in hushed, almost reverent terms.
This small and mountainous island, with peaks above 9,000 feet, is located hundreds of miles from the closest beaten path. But the rugged and remote wilderness is famous for another reason. South Georgia Island served as the final stage in one of the greatest survival stories of all time: Ernest Shackleton's voyage to the southern seas aboard the Endurance.
This small and mountainous island, with peaks above 9,000 feet, is located hundreds of miles from the closest beaten path. But the rugged and remote wilderness is famous for another reason. South Georgia Island served as the final stage in one of the greatest survival stories of all time: Ernest Shackleton's voyage to the southern seas aboard the Endurance.
Why Phoenix's flights can't take off in extreme heat
Why Phoenix's Flights Can't Take Off in Extreme Heat | WIRED: Phoenix just provided another reason to hate flying: the heat. With temperatures there expected to hit 119 degrees Fahrenheit, airlines canceled more than 40 flights today.
Wait. What? Airplanes can't fly because it's too hot? That's crazy.
No, not really. According to news reports, the heat poses a particular problem for the Bombardier CRJ airliners, which have a maximum operating temperature of 118 degrees. Bigger planes from Airbus and Boeing can handle 126 degrees or so.
OK. But why?
Wait. What? Airplanes can't fly because it's too hot? That's crazy.
No, not really. According to news reports, the heat poses a particular problem for the Bombardier CRJ airliners, which have a maximum operating temperature of 118 degrees. Bigger planes from Airbus and Boeing can handle 126 degrees or so.
OK. But why?
Bracing for the next news story: Was Bernie Sanders actually pushing ‘secular humanism’?
Bracing for the next news story: Was Bernie Sanders actually pushing 'secular humanism'? — GetReligionMATTINGLY: Does anyone remember the days, a decade or two ago, when the official boogeyman of religious conservatism was a cultural tsunami called "secular humanism"?
I sure do. That nasty label was being pinned on people all over the place.
The only problem was, when I went out to do my religion-beat reporting work, I never seemed to run into many people whose personal beliefs actually fit under the dictionary definition of "secular," which looks something like this...
I sure do. That nasty label was being pinned on people all over the place.
The only problem was, when I went out to do my religion-beat reporting work, I never seemed to run into many people whose personal beliefs actually fit under the dictionary definition of "secular," which looks something like this...
Decide now whom you will fear: A homily for the 12th Sunday of the Year
Decide Now Whom You Will Fear: A Homily for the 12th Sunday of the Year - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: The Lord speaks to us today of one of the most central struggles in our life: fear. Yes, fear is one of our deepest drives and though it has a positive purpose, too often we miss the mark in directing its energy. The positive role of fear is to alert us that something is wrong and to divert us from danger. With our fallen nature, though, we often fear the wrong things while lacking a sober fear of the right things. We major in the minors of life; we get all worked up about passing things but do not have a sober and reverent fear of eternal things. We fear sinful and weak human beings, but not God, who is just, who sees all, and who will assign us our eternal destiny.
The Lord thus teaches us today in order to help us to “get fear right.” He sets forth the proper object of our fear, points to the outcome of succeeding or failing in this matter, and reminds us of our proper role in this world as we master our fear.
The Lord thus teaches us today in order to help us to “get fear right.” He sets forth the proper object of our fear, points to the outcome of succeeding or failing in this matter, and reminds us of our proper role in this world as we master our fear.
Friday, June 23, 2017
Did Jesus really rise from the dead?
Did Jesus Really Rise From the Dead?MCCLOSKEY: Some Christians confident in their own faith may not immediately see the need to read this book, given their solid belief in the Resurrection.
However, answering the challenges and serious questions of those around us, including family members far from such faith, is motive enough to take up Carl Olson's deft exposition of "the reason for our faith," as St. Peter put it. Olsen equips readers to counter the skepticism of the "Jesus Seminar or the New Atheism" by presenting clear and convincing arguments that the Resurrection actually occurred.
However, answering the challenges and serious questions of those around us, including family members far from such faith, is motive enough to take up Carl Olson's deft exposition of "the reason for our faith," as St. Peter put it. Olsen equips readers to counter the skepticism of the "Jesus Seminar or the New Atheism" by presenting clear and convincing arguments that the Resurrection actually occurred.
Springfield Bishop Thomas Paprocki decrees: No Communion or funeral rites for same-sex couples
Illinois Bishop Decrees: No Communion and No Funeral Rites for Same-Sex Couples: Before LGBT Pride celebrations begin in Chicago this weekend, Bishop of Springfield Thomas Paprocki issued a formal decree calling on all members of the Catholic faith to enforce the Church’s longstanding policies on the issue of homosexuality.
The symptoms of dying (which you're going to do someday, so go to confession)
The Symptoms of Dying - The New York Times: You and I, one day we’ll die from the same thing. We’ll call it different names: cancer, diabetes, heart failure, stroke.
One organ will fail, then another. Or maybe all at once. We’ll become more similar to each other than to people who continue living with your original diagnosis or mine.
Dying has its own biology and symptoms. It’s a diagnosis in itself. While the weeks and days leading up to death can vary from person to person, the hours before death are similar across the vast majority of human afflictions.
One organ will fail, then another. Or maybe all at once. We’ll become more similar to each other than to people who continue living with your original diagnosis or mine.
Dying has its own biology and symptoms. It’s a diagnosis in itself. While the weeks and days leading up to death can vary from person to person, the hours before death are similar across the vast majority of human afflictions.
A good eggsplanation of why bird eggs are shaped like eggs
Why Are Bird Eggs Egg-Shaped? - The Atlantic: When Mary Caswell Stoddard started measuring bird eggs from hundreds of species, she wasn’t expecting to learn that most eggs are not egg-shaped.
Think about an egg and you’ll probably conjure up an ellipse that’s slightly fatter at one end—the classic chicken egg. But chickens are outliers. Hummingbirds lay eggs that look like Tic Tacs, owls lay nigh-perfect spheres, and sandpipers lay almost conical eggs that end in a rounded point. After analyzing hundreds of species, Stoddard showed that the most common shape—exemplified by an unremarkable songbird called the graceful prinia—is more pointed than a chicken’s.
Think about an egg and you’ll probably conjure up an ellipse that’s slightly fatter at one end—the classic chicken egg. But chickens are outliers. Hummingbirds lay eggs that look like Tic Tacs, owls lay nigh-perfect spheres, and sandpipers lay almost conical eggs that end in a rounded point. After analyzing hundreds of species, Stoddard showed that the most common shape—exemplified by an unremarkable songbird called the graceful prinia—is more pointed than a chicken’s.
Why Syria’s Christians oppose efforts to depose Assad
Syrian Civil War & Assad -- Christians Oppose Efforts to Depose Him | National ReviewFRANKOVICH: In Syria, most Christians and other religious minorities, primarily Alawites and Druze, support Assad, certainly according to conventional wisdom. Polling data such as they are indicate that a majority of the total Syrian population, not just religious minorities, backs him in the civil war. “Even the Sunnis” will take Assad over “the extremists,” Antoine Audo, the Chaldean Catholic bishop of Aleppo, told reporters in Geneva last year. He estimated that 80 percent of Syria’s Christians would vote for Assad in an election. Syria’s bishops, both Catholic and Orthodox, are adamant in their defense of the secular regime, which they see as the only practical bulwark against greater chaos or the establishment of a Sunni regime that would be hostile to Christianity.
Thursday, June 22, 2017
The Dismas Option: Why you shouldn't wait to come back to God
The Dismas Option: Why We Shouldn’t Wait to Come Back to God | ncregister.comCLARK: Sometimes I wonder how many people fall away from the Catholic Church and live apart from God for many years, with the plan to return at the end of their lives. Their plan is to live the way they want, to “have their cake and eat it, too,” to “beat the system.”
Jesus warned against this thinking in His Parable of the Thief in the Night in Matthew 24:42-44. Commenting on this passage, Saint Augustine observes: “Foolish are all they, who either profess to know the day of the end of the world, when it is to come, or even the end of their own life.” Yet, like those who insist that warning labels do not apply to them, they persist.
Jesus warned against this thinking in His Parable of the Thief in the Night in Matthew 24:42-44. Commenting on this passage, Saint Augustine observes: “Foolish are all they, who either profess to know the day of the end of the world, when it is to come, or even the end of their own life.” Yet, like those who insist that warning labels do not apply to them, they persist.
St. Thomas More’s prison cell in the Tower of London
St. Thomas More’s Prison Cell in the Tower of London | Quartermaster of the BarqueBOWERS: For a pilgrimage earlier this year, I made arrangements to visit the cell in the Tower of London where St. Thomas More was imprisoned as he underwent trial for refusal to take the Oath of Supremacy imposed by King Henry VIII.
St. Thomas is my patron saint in Confirmation, and today (June 22) is his optional memorial.
Although the Tower of London was used to detain the King’s prisoners from time to time, it is not a prison per se. Rather, it was (and is) a secure location belonging to the Monarch, which, in addition to quarters for guards and officers, also provides cells for certain “special” prisoners. Usually, such prisoners would be brought in upon a boat from the Thames through the “Prisoner’s Gate”, and then marched from there to their cell within the Tower complex.
St. Thomas is my patron saint in Confirmation, and today (June 22) is his optional memorial.
Although the Tower of London was used to detain the King’s prisoners from time to time, it is not a prison per se. Rather, it was (and is) a secure location belonging to the Monarch, which, in addition to quarters for guards and officers, also provides cells for certain “special” prisoners. Usually, such prisoners would be brought in upon a boat from the Thames through the “Prisoner’s Gate”, and then marched from there to their cell within the Tower complex.
Where did devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus come from?
Where Did Devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus Come From? | ncregister.comSCHIFFER: This year on June 23, the Catholic Church celebrates the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. But where did that tradition originate?
Devotion to the wounded heart of Jesus has its origins in the eleventh century, when pious Christians meditated on the Five Wounds of Christ. There grew up among the faithful prayers to the Sacred Heart, prayers to the Shoulder Wound of Christ—private devotions which helped Christians to focus on the passion and death of Christ, and thus to grow in love for our Savior who had suffered and died for us.
Devotion to the wounded heart of Jesus has its origins in the eleventh century, when pious Christians meditated on the Five Wounds of Christ. There grew up among the faithful prayers to the Sacred Heart, prayers to the Shoulder Wound of Christ—private devotions which helped Christians to focus on the passion and death of Christ, and thus to grow in love for our Savior who had suffered and died for us.
Is Vatican II to blame for the sex abuse scandal?
Is Vatican II to blame for the sex abuse scandal? – SIMCHA FISHERFISHER: The Catholic Herald UK reports: Mgr Peter Smith, former chancellor of Glasgow archdiocese, said the Church accepted conventional wisdom of the 1970s that it was “better to repair the [abuser], to fix them or to redeem them”, than punish them. In that era priests accused of abuse could be sent for therapy rather than face criminal charges. The paper is reporting Mgr Smith’s words with the strong insinuation that Vatican II is to blame for the scandal. I’m not sure if that’s what he really meant, or if his comments might be taken out of context. But I have most certainly heard other Catholics say outright that we can pin the sex abuse scandal on the laxness, the sloppiness, and the psychological sentimentality of the 70’s and Vatican II’s implementation. Vatican II, at least the way it played out in many places, was all about letting go of mean old rules and regulations, and doing what felt good, they argue. Of course we had abusers.
Former San Francisco Archbishop John Quinn dies at 88
Whispers in the Loggia: In San Francisco, The End of An Era – John Raphael Dies at 88PALMO: For the second time in a month, the City of St Francis is made to bury an archbishop... yet this time, it's the "Big One."
The figure who enshrined a progressive style of Catholicism to fit the nation's most liberal city, Archbishop John Raphael Quinn died early this morning at 88.
Head of the San Francisco church from 1977-95, the San Diego native – ordained a bishop at 38 – led the US bench as the modern conference's fourth president from 1977-80, amid the hierarchy's post-Conciliar zenith of action and activism.
The figure who enshrined a progressive style of Catholicism to fit the nation's most liberal city, Archbishop John Raphael Quinn died early this morning at 88.
Head of the San Francisco church from 1977-95, the San Diego native – ordained a bishop at 38 – led the US bench as the modern conference's fourth president from 1977-80, amid the hierarchy's post-Conciliar zenith of action and activism.
This exposé of the LA trucking industry shows why Rerum Novarum is more relevant than ever...
Rigged. Forced into debt. Worked past exhaustion. Left with nothing. - USA TODAY: Samuel Talavera Jr. did everything his bosses asked.
Most days, the trucker would drive more than 16 hours straight hauling LG dishwashers and Kumho tires to warehouses around Los Angeles, on their way to retail stores nationwide.
He rarely went home to his family. At night, he crawled into the back of his cab and slept in the company parking lot.
For all of that, he took home as little as 67 cents a week.
Then, in October 2013, the truck he leased from his employer, QTS, broke down.
Most days, the trucker would drive more than 16 hours straight hauling LG dishwashers and Kumho tires to warehouses around Los Angeles, on their way to retail stores nationwide.
He rarely went home to his family. At night, he crawled into the back of his cab and slept in the company parking lot.
For all of that, he took home as little as 67 cents a week.
Then, in October 2013, the truck he leased from his employer, QTS, broke down.
Too many ill-formed priests treat Mass like it’s Howdy Doody time...
It’s Howdy Doody Time! - Denver CatholicWEIGEL: Three or four times each month, Father X (as I’ll call him here) celebrates the noontime daily Mass I regularly attend. I’m grateful for his homilies, which are almost always thoughtful. Thus in a recent commentary on Jesus’s debate with the Sadducees over the resurrection of the dead, Father X gave a lucid and moving explanation of the “communion of saints” and how it functions in our Christian lives.
The problem is not Father X’s preaching. The problem is – if you’ll permit me an AmChurch neologism – Father X’s “presidential style.” And then, boys and girls, it’s Howdy Doody Time all over again.
The problem is not Father X’s preaching. The problem is – if you’ll permit me an AmChurch neologism – Father X’s “presidential style.” And then, boys and girls, it’s Howdy Doody Time all over again.
How the recovered bones of Julia Greeley reveal her true grit
Julia Greeley: Woman of virtue - Denver CatholicAQUILA: Hundreds of people were drawn to the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception on June 7 for the transfer of Julia Greeley’s mortal remains, which were exhumed as a part of her cause for canonization. Few records about Julia exist, but her remains confirm what was passed on orally: Julia was a woman of remarkable perseverance and conviction who should inspire us all to pursue holiness.
Why is God silent? He’s silent because, as Cardinal Sarah tells us, silence is the language of God...
The way God speaks: A review of Cardinal Robert Sarah’s The Power of Silence - Denver CatholicSTAUDT: In the Catholic world, it was a year of silence. Martin Scorsese fulfilled his longstanding dream to adapt Shusaku Endo’s novel Silence for film. The book chronicles two young Jesuits in Japan searching for their lost mentor, rumored to have abandoned the faith. Japan experienced a massive number of martyrdoms as the Emperor banned the newly established religion in 1587, as it was gaining converts quickly. The novel asks: “Why is God silent in the face of this persecution?” Endo writes: “Behind the depressing silence of this sea, the silence of God … the feeling that while men raise their voices in anguish God remains with folded arms, silent.” It’s a question many people ask: Why is God silent?
Fortnight for Freedom: Please spend some time working and praying to protect your religious liberty
Fortnight for Freedom: Please Spend Some Time Working and Praying to Protect Your Religious Liberty - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: There has been a steady erosion of religious liberty in the United States in recent years. It has been challenged through a broad range of incidents, requirements from the medical world, health insurance mandates, and court decisions. We often take our religious freedom for granted, but it is under substantive though sometimes subtle challenge. We are in the midst of a sea change; we are being told that religion has no place in the marketplace, in the public forum.
43 incredible photos of U.S. UNESCO sites, present and proposed
43 Incredible Photos of U.S. UNESCO Sites: Present and Proposed: From the glowing lava flows of Hawaii to the pearly ice fields of Alaska, the United States’ natural and cultural heritage is as vast and diverse as the country itself. The U.S. currently claims 23 UNESCO World Heritage sites, which capture thousands of years of natural history and human innovation. An additional 20 natural and cultural sites ranging from under-the-sea monuments to urban architectural wonders are also vying for the renowned title. Find out which sites have already been inscribed for their “outstanding universal value,” and which tentative sites may join the list soon.
St. John Fisher, Cardinal-Martyr of England
St. John Fisher, Cardinal-Martyr of England | ncregister.comMANN: John Cardinal Fisher, the former Bishop of Rochester—Henry VIII had stripped him of that title—was sentenced to death on June 17, 1535. The sentence pronounced against him brought a flush of color to his sunken cheeks, eyewitnesses remarked. As a traitor, he would be drawn to the place of execution on a hurdle, hanged, cut down still alive and then endure vivisection. Finally his head would be cut off and his body would be divided into four parts: Henry VIII would decide where his head and his quarters would be displayed. In other words, he would be hanged, drawn, and quartered.
The martyr who got overshadowed by St. Thomas More
The Martyr Who Got Overshadowed by St. Thomas More | ncregister.comCRAUGHWELL: It’s not Thomas More’s fault. His fame is so widespread that he has put in the shade the only English bishop who had the guts to stand up to Henry VIII, and lost his head because of it. That bishop was St. John Fisher (1469-1535).
Certainly, most if not all of the Register’s readers will recognize that name. But let’s face it, what Fisher needs is his own version of A Man for All Seasons—a big, gorgeously filmed, beautifully written, destined-to-be-a-classic film, with an all-English cast. So, until some Hollywood producer gives this concept the green light, here’s a very brief introduction to one of the glories of Catholic English.
Certainly, most if not all of the Register’s readers will recognize that name. But let’s face it, what Fisher needs is his own version of A Man for All Seasons—a big, gorgeously filmed, beautifully written, destined-to-be-a-classic film, with an all-English cast. So, until some Hollywood producer gives this concept the green light, here’s a very brief introduction to one of the glories of Catholic English.
Things Mother Teresa didn’t say: There’s a website for that
Things Mother Teresa Didn’t Say: There’s a website for that - CNA Blog: As far as vastly-misquoted leading historical figures go, Mother Teresa ranks right up there with the likes of Albert Einstein and Abraham Lincoln.
The internet is ripe with sickly-sweet memes and quotes supposedly from the beloved saint. As it turns out, many of them are actually the words of other people, while others are an attempt at paraphrasing Mother, and still others are just blatantly false quotes.
The problem is so persistent that Mother’s own order has a webpage dedicated solely to debunking these falsely-attributed quotes. It has three sections: quotes Mother Teresa never said, those quotes translated into Spanish, and then significantly paraphrased or personal interpretations of Mother’s words. At the end, another clarification: “These lists are not comprehensive.” Meaning, there’s more out there that even her sisters haven’t caught yet.
The internet is ripe with sickly-sweet memes and quotes supposedly from the beloved saint. As it turns out, many of them are actually the words of other people, while others are an attempt at paraphrasing Mother, and still others are just blatantly false quotes.
The problem is so persistent that Mother’s own order has a webpage dedicated solely to debunking these falsely-attributed quotes. It has three sections: quotes Mother Teresa never said, those quotes translated into Spanish, and then significantly paraphrased or personal interpretations of Mother’s words. At the end, another clarification: “These lists are not comprehensive.” Meaning, there’s more out there that even her sisters haven’t caught yet.
This pro-life talk at Google's headquarters was a surprise hit
This pro-life talk at Google's headquarters was a hit :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): A pro-life activist walks into Google’s headquarters and delivers a speech so compelling that within 24 hours, the online video of it surpassed a similar speech given by the head of Planned Parenthood.
It may sound like the start to a far-fetched joke, but on April 20th, pro-life speaker and activist Stephanie Gray did just that.
Gray was the co-founder of the Canadian Centre for Bio-Ethical Reform and served as its executive director for several year before starting the ministry which she now runs, Love Unleashes Life.
She spoke in April as a part of the Talks at Google series, a program that brings a variety of speakers to the company’s headquarters to discuss their work. Gray has participated in more than 800 talks and debates on abortion.
It may sound like the start to a far-fetched joke, but on April 20th, pro-life speaker and activist Stephanie Gray did just that.
Gray was the co-founder of the Canadian Centre for Bio-Ethical Reform and served as its executive director for several year before starting the ministry which she now runs, Love Unleashes Life.
She spoke in April as a part of the Talks at Google series, a program that brings a variety of speakers to the company’s headquarters to discuss their work. Gray has participated in more than 800 talks and debates on abortion.
Toronto's National Post: The rise of the radical nuns (i.e., orthodox, habit-wearing sisters)
Rise of the radical nuns | National Post: Wearing a traditional blue and white habit from head to toe, Sister John Mary is at once peaceful and intense. She warmly welcomes visitors into the quiet convent tucked between a church and a Catholic school in Toronto’s east end.
She sings softly during a midday prayer, one of four she attends each day. “Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now and will be forever.”
Sister John Mary has no possessions and wears a ring to signify her marriage to God. She’s one of the Sisters of Life, a convent of young, ultra-conservative Catholic nuns that was founded in New York in 1991, and arrived in Canada in 2007.
She sings softly during a midday prayer, one of four she attends each day. “Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now and will be forever.”
Sister John Mary has no possessions and wears a ring to signify her marriage to God. She’s one of the Sisters of Life, a convent of young, ultra-conservative Catholic nuns that was founded in New York in 1991, and arrived in Canada in 2007.
Pope appoints new president of Pontifical Academy of Sciences
Pope appoints new president of Pontifical Academy of Sciences - Vatican Radio: Pope Francis appointed Professor Joachim von Braun as the new President of the Pontifical Academy of Sciences on Wednesday.
Professor von Braun is Ordinary Professor of Economics and Technological Change, as well as Director of the Center for Development Research at the University of Bonn in Germany.
He told Vatican Radio's Mario Galgano his goal as head of the Academy will be to seek solutions for inequality and the destruction of the environment.
Professor von Braun is Ordinary Professor of Economics and Technological Change, as well as Director of the Center for Development Research at the University of Bonn in Germany.
He told Vatican Radio's Mario Galgano his goal as head of the Academy will be to seek solutions for inequality and the destruction of the environment.
The Silence of the Lambs: Are Protestants concealing a Catholic-size sexual abuse scandal?
The Silence of the Lambs | New Republic: It was a hot day in July, a Saturday afternoon, and Kim James was bored. Her older sisters had taken her to a church event in their small hometown in Indiana, where the girls were spending their summer. Her parents were back in Bangladesh, working at the remote Baptist missionary compound where the family had lived, on and off, for five years. For an adventurous and high-spirited 13-year-old like Kim, Indiana seemed dull compared to Bangladesh. She missed her friends, the dozen or so missionary kids everybody called “MKs.” She missed the menagerie her parents let her keep: goats, cows, a parrot, a monkey. She missed the jackals that called in the distance at night, and the elephants that sometimes crashed through the compound fence.
Wednesday, June 21, 2017
Monsignor Bux: We are in a full crisis of faith
Monsignor Bux: We Are in a Full Crisis of Faith | ncregister.comPENTIN: To resolve the current crisis in the Church over papal teaching and authority, the Pope must make a declaration of faith, affirming what is Catholic and correcting his own “ambiguous and erroneous” words and actions that have been interpreted in a non-Catholic manner.
This is according to Monsignor Nicola Bux, a respected theologian and former consulter to the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith during Benedict XVI’s pontificate.
In the following interview with the Register, Msgr. Bux explains that the Church is in a “full crisis of faith” and that the storms of division the Church is currently experiencing are due to apostasy — the “abandonment of Catholic thought.”
This is according to Monsignor Nicola Bux, a respected theologian and former consulter to the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith during Benedict XVI’s pontificate.
In the following interview with the Register, Msgr. Bux explains that the Church is in a “full crisis of faith” and that the storms of division the Church is currently experiencing are due to apostasy — the “abandonment of Catholic thought.”
Center for Medical Progress: Criminal charges in California have been dismissed
Center for Medical Progress: Criminal Charges in California Have Been Dismisses | National Review: This afternoon, the San Francisco Superior Court tossed out 14 of the 15 criminal charges that had been brought by the state of California against two journalists from the Center for Medical Progress (CMP), after they released a series of undercover videos exposing Planned Parenthood’s possible involvement in illegal fetal-tissue trafficking. In late March, California attorney general Xavier Becerra charged David Daleiden and Sandra Merritt with 15 felony charges for recording what he deemed to be confidential communications. Today, a judge dismissed 14 of those charges, but will still consider the remaining fifteenth charge, against Merritt alone, for conspiring to invade privacy.
Karen Handel, the winner of Georgia's special congressional election, is a pro-life Catholic
Catholic, Pro-Life Victory in Georgia: Handel Wins House Seat - All Roads Lead to Rome: On Tuesday night, it was announced that Karen Handel had won the most expensive House race in American history. While many are describing this as a defeat for the Democratic party, what's not being mentioned is that Handel's victory is a big win for the pro-life movement and a vindication of sorts for the Congresswoman-elect.
What St. Margaret Mary Alacoque said about devotion to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus
BIG C CATHOLICS: St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, the Apostle of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, on Devotion to the Most Sacred Heart: The Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus is June 23rd. Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque, the Apostle of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, was privileged to receive visions of Christ beginning in childhood. Our Lord entrusted to her the divine mission of establishing the devotion to His Sacred Heart in the world. Criticism did not hamper her enthusiasm, and her charity toward her opponents won them over to her message. The following quotations from the writings of St. Margaret Mary Alacoque show her great love for the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus.
Is religion comforting? Yes. But not in the way the atheists think...
Atheism and faith--AleteiaMILLS: “The single most annoying thing a nonreligious person can say,” writes a Hollywood screenwriter, “... isn’t that religion is oppressive or that religious people are brainwashed.” Dorothy Fortenberry is writing in The Los Angeles Review of Books, not a place you’d expect to find a Catholic explaining why she’s Catholic. They even ran it in the print edition.
The most annoying thing is “the kind, patronizing way that nonreligious people have of saying, ‘You know, sometimes I wish I were religious. I wish I could have that certainty. It just seems so comforting never to doubt things.’”
Fortenberry wishes she were as certain as her atheist friends. She doesn’t quite say so, but she suggests that if she were certain that God doesn’t exist, she’d be happier with herself. Catholicism comforts us, sure, but weirdly enough, it’s not as comforting as atheism.
The most annoying thing is “the kind, patronizing way that nonreligious people have of saying, ‘You know, sometimes I wish I were religious. I wish I could have that certainty. It just seems so comforting never to doubt things.’”
Fortenberry wishes she were as certain as her atheist friends. She doesn’t quite say so, but she suggests that if she were certain that God doesn’t exist, she’d be happier with herself. Catholicism comforts us, sure, but weirdly enough, it’s not as comforting as atheism.
Why do people embrace things like racism and abortion? Because they live in a world of malignant normality...
The Human Life Review Our Malignant Normality - The Human Life ReviewMILLS: The majority of people don’t have to go all in for evil for a society to turn to evil. They need only go one-third or half-way. That’s one lesson to be taken from the work of the psychiatrist Robert Jay Lifton, most famous as the author of The Nazi Doctors: Medical Killing and the Psychology of Genocide.
The book appeared in 1986 and was widely praised. Lifton has just written a new preface to the latest edition, part of which appeared in the leftist magazine Dissent
The book appeared in 1986 and was widely praised. Lifton has just written a new preface to the latest edition, part of which appeared in the leftist magazine Dissent
How to deal with suicide when it's related to mental illness
Catholic Church and suicide-AleteiaSCHNEIDER: I was speaking recently to a young woman whose friend had taken her own life. The friend had always been one of those girls with the biggest smile. But one fall she started acting depressed and within a few months the young girl had attempted suicide multiple times, finally succeeding. The family would tell people that their daughter got sick and died, not mentioning the type of sickness.
Ties that bind in Golden State Warriors locker room: Might those game-day Bible studies be important?
Ties that bind in Warriors locker room: Might those game-day Bible studies be important? — GetReligionMATTINGLY: Hello, all of you sports fanatics out there in GetReligion reader land!
Yeah, right.
I realize there may only be a dozen or so of you, based on the digital silence that has followed most GetReligion posts about sports-news topics. However, I (along with Bobby Ross, Jr., the Texas Rangers acolyte) have bravely soldiered on and written quite a few posts about the God-shaped holes found in the coverage at most mainstream sports-news outlets (hello, ESPN).
So here I go again, with a follow-up post to the recent NBA championship run by the Golden State Warriors. I want readers to answer a simple question about news coverage (one that will take us into territory linked to the never-ending saga of Steph Curry and his sneakers).
Yeah, right.
I realize there may only be a dozen or so of you, based on the digital silence that has followed most GetReligion posts about sports-news topics. However, I (along with Bobby Ross, Jr., the Texas Rangers acolyte) have bravely soldiered on and written quite a few posts about the God-shaped holes found in the coverage at most mainstream sports-news outlets (hello, ESPN).
So here I go again, with a follow-up post to the recent NBA championship run by the Golden State Warriors. I want readers to answer a simple question about news coverage (one that will take us into territory linked to the never-ending saga of Steph Curry and his sneakers).
Engage in the “battle for the eternal salvation for souls”, wherein Fr. Z beats to quarters
Engage in the “Battle for the Eternal Salvation of Souls” – Wherein Fr. Z beats to Quarters | Fr. Z's BlogZUHLSDORF: A young writer at the increasingly helpful – and descriptive – Crisis in a new must-read offering penned: No happy bromides about non-condemnation can erase Christ’s fifteen warnings about Hell. No heady defense of sin, no tangled jargon on “time” and “space,” can theorize the Four Last Things out of existence. How often do I remind you here of the Four Last Things? And why? Because it’s my task to try to keep as many of you out of Hell as possible. Put another, happier way, to help as many of you as possible to heaven.
How could this happen? A former destroyer captain explains the U.S.S. Fitzgerald and collisions at sea...
How Could This Happen? The Fitzgerald, the U.S. Navy, and Collisions at Sea: On Saturday, at about 2:30 AM local time, the destroyer USS Fitzgerald (DDG 62) and the Philippine container ship ACX Crystal collided southwest of Yokosuka, Japan — the home of the United States Navy’s Seventh Fleet. Several crew members were injured (including the commanding officer), and when flooded spaces were accessed pier-side, the bodies of seven sailors were found.
Pope's Wednesday Audience: “Invoke the saints; they are always present in our life”
Don't think holiness is for you? The saints can help, Pope Francis says :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): On Wednesday, Pope Francis said the saints show us that despite what we might think, holiness is possible for everyone, and we should call on them for help in living out our vocations.
Some of us may be tempted to question if it is really possible to be holy in everyday life, the Pope said, but “yes, you can,” he encouraged, and it doesn’t mean you have to pray all day long.
“No, no. It means you have to do your duty all day long,” he said June 21. “Pray, go to work, watch over the children. But everything must be done with a heart open to God, in a way that the work, even in illness, and in suffering, also in difficulty, is open to God. And so you can become saints.”
Some of us may be tempted to question if it is really possible to be holy in everyday life, the Pope said, but “yes, you can,” he encouraged, and it doesn’t mean you have to pray all day long.
“No, no. It means you have to do your duty all day long,” he said June 21. “Pray, go to work, watch over the children. But everything must be done with a heart open to God, in a way that the work, even in illness, and in suffering, also in difficulty, is open to God. And so you can become saints.”
Tuesday, June 20, 2017
‘Killing's bad 'n all, but how much is too much?’
Mark Shea: 'Killing's bad 'n all, but how much is too much?' - Capital Punishment, Part 9 (final)SHEA: Last time in this space we discussed the false understanding of prudential judgment which imagines it to mean, “If you don’t like what the Church teaches, feel free to blow it off.” We learned that the correct meaning of “prudential judgment” refers to how best, not whether to obey the Church’s guidance. And this brings us to our final point about the Church’s guidance with respect to killing vs. much of modernity’s understanding.
Love your enemies, says the Lord. I am coming soon!
Love Your Enemies, says the Lord. I am Coming Soon! - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: There is a specific depiction of Christ known as Christ Pantocrator. It was widespread in the ancient world and still is today. The title “Pantocrator” is most often translated into English as “The Almighty One” or “The Omnipotent One.” It comes from the Greek words παντός (pantos, meaning all) and κράτος (kratos, meaning strength, might, or power).
In the particular image at right, Christ is seated (as a sign of authority). In many of the specific images he holds a book, sometimes open and sometimes closed. If the book is open, there can be a few of many different texts displayed. In some of the images there is an interesting juxtaposition of texts meant to provoke thought and lead to both catechesis and repentance.
In the particular image at right, Christ is seated (as a sign of authority). In many of the specific images he holds a book, sometimes open and sometimes closed. If the book is open, there can be a few of many different texts displayed. In some of the images there is an interesting juxtaposition of texts meant to provoke thought and lead to both catechesis and repentance.
The importance of ‘Humanae Vitae’, a testimony to the truth
The Importance of ‘Humanae Vitae’ — a Testimony to the Truth | ncregister.comCHAPUT: A bishop attends a lot of worthy public events and fundraisers. It’s part of the job. And supporting good people doing good things is always a source of satisfaction and hope.
But once in a while, an event comes along with an unexpected pleasure. The June 17 luncheon on behalf of our Philadelphia Redemptoris Mater Archdiocesan Missionary Seminary was just that kind of event. It drew an enthusiastic crowd — honoring Bishop John McIntyre’s 25th anniversary as a priest was part of the focus — and among the many attendees were two longtime friends: Martha and Bill Beckman.
But once in a while, an event comes along with an unexpected pleasure. The June 17 luncheon on behalf of our Philadelphia Redemptoris Mater Archdiocesan Missionary Seminary was just that kind of event. It drew an enthusiastic crowd — honoring Bishop John McIntyre’s 25th anniversary as a priest was part of the focus — and among the many attendees were two longtime friends: Martha and Bill Beckman.
The studies are clear: Religion fosters more stable marriages
Faith and Marriage: Better Together? – Principles: Over the next decade, count on the press, academics, and pop culture icons to take a more negative view of religion in American life. This opposition has been driven by a variety of factors, such as the rise of the “new atheism” and conservative Christian alliances with the Republican Party and with President Donald Trump. In particular, orthodox religious opposition to today’s new morality—on matters ranging from abortion to LGBTQ rights—has made religion a target of scorn, skepticism, or outright hostility on the part of many of the nation’s cultural elites. This negative view of religion extends to religion’s influence on family life.
In Italy and beyond, all eyes are on Milan
Whispers in the Loggia: Ambrose, Charles... and Francis' Choice – In Italy (and Beyond), All Eyes on MilanPALMO: While late last week was supposed to be given to the Midsummer Classic – eventful as it was for a June meeting – more pressing developments have pushed the bench to the side... at least, the Stateside one.
As ever, news has its ways of disrupting the best-laid plans. Still, as sidetracks go, this instance brings the specter of a blockbuster: the most important personnel choice Pope Francis will make, bar none, is said to be on deck.
As ever, news has its ways of disrupting the best-laid plans. Still, as sidetracks go, this instance brings the specter of a blockbuster: the most important personnel choice Pope Francis will make, bar none, is said to be on deck.
Why are so many babies born around 8:00 a.m.?
Why Are so Many Babies Born around 8:00 A.M.? - Scientific American Blog Network: As humans, our lives are filled with routines, habits and schedules. There are times that we wake up, go to school or work, or to the gym. We have routines around coffee breaks, rush hour traffic, meetings and soccer games.
Pope Francis speaks to priests
Pope Francis Speaks to Priests | Word On FireBARRON: I write these words from the Nuremore Hotel in Monaghan, Ireland, where I am conducting a retreat for the good priests of the Dublin Archdiocese. As I look out at these men, I am reminded of so many of my own relatives on both sides of my family (“Gosh, he looks like Uncle Charlie” and “That one is the spitting image of my cousin Terry”), for I am Irish all the way through. Many of the priests who are making the retreat are retired, and it is edifying to see so many who have bravely borne the heat of the day. Do say a prayer for them.
The theme that I have chosen for my talks is “Pope Francis Speaks to Priests.” I have culled a number of motifs from the Pope’s numerous talks, sermons, and lectures to priests, seminarians, and bishops. Allow me, in the course of this brief article to say just a few words about each one.
The theme that I have chosen for my talks is “Pope Francis Speaks to Priests.” I have culled a number of motifs from the Pope’s numerous talks, sermons, and lectures to priests, seminarians, and bishops. Allow me, in the course of this brief article to say just a few words about each one.
Vatican’s auditor general Libero Milone unexpectedly resigns
Vatican’s Auditor General Unexpectedly Resigns | ncregister.comPENTIN: The Vatican has announced that Pope Francis has accepted the resignation of the Holy See’s auditor general, Libero Milone.
In a statement released today, the Vatican said by “mutual agreement” the Dutch-born financier’s “collaborative relationship” with the Holy See ended yesterday, but did not give any reasons.
It added that the search for his replacement would begin “as soon as possible.” Milone was the first auditor general after the position was set up by Pope Francis in 2014 and the office given statutes the following year.
His departure is surprising as just three months ago, he reportedly said he had no regrets since accepting the assignment in 2015. On the contrary, he said he was ready to go “all the way with great enthusiasm” and that he was “highly motivated by the privilege of being available to the Pope.”
In a statement released today, the Vatican said by “mutual agreement” the Dutch-born financier’s “collaborative relationship” with the Holy See ended yesterday, but did not give any reasons.
It added that the search for his replacement would begin “as soon as possible.” Milone was the first auditor general after the position was set up by Pope Francis in 2014 and the office given statutes the following year.
His departure is surprising as just three months ago, he reportedly said he had no regrets since accepting the assignment in 2015. On the contrary, he said he was ready to go “all the way with great enthusiasm” and that he was “highly motivated by the privilege of being available to the Pope.”
3 reasons why Catholic classical education is a tough sell
Three Reasons Why Catholic Classical Education is a Tough Sell | Classical Catholic EducationLANGLEY: Genuine Catholic education appears to be a product which doesn’t sell itself. That was a bit of a surprise for me when I was a freshly minted teacher. Naturally, I thought that an excellent school would flourish immediately. Word about the school would spread like an uncontrollable grass fire in the American South West or a brush fire through the Gamba grass in Australia! Before long the only problem such a school would face would be that of managing a lengthy waiting list of future students.
Former slave Julia Greeley’s remains exhumed, laid to rest at cathedral in Denver
Former Slave’s Remains Exhumed, Laid to Rest at Denver Cathedral | ncregister.comROXANNEKING: She was a laywoman, a Catholic convert, an ex-slave — and she is the first person to be buried at Denver’s 105-year-old cathedral.
The remains of Servant of God Julia Greeley were recently exhumed from a local cemetery. And on June 7, the 99th anniversary of her death, they were transferred to the Cathedral-Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, where people lined up for the unique opportunity to view and venerate her earthly remains before they were entombed.
The remains of Servant of God Julia Greeley were recently exhumed from a local cemetery. And on June 7, the 99th anniversary of her death, they were transferred to the Cathedral-Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, where people lined up for the unique opportunity to view and venerate her earthly remains before they were entombed.
Please don't ask me about my sex life
Please Don’t Ask Me About My Sex Life | ncregister.comFITZ: So my husband and I are sitting at the table one evening when our dinner guest proceeds to ask us, in front of our children, about our sex life. That’s not what he meant to do, of course. What piqued his curiosity was the part about how we had a run of four children two years apart, and then: Nothing. The difficulty is that, for those of us who are old enough to know how these things work, by definition any question about the spacing of our children contains within it two other questions: Are you having sex? And if so, why aren’t there are any more babies?
Neighborhoods change, but the Lord is an everlasting rock
Neighborhoods Change, but the Lord is an Everlasting Rock | ncregister.com: Dramatic demographic shifts have occurred throughout this country that have substantially affected the Catholic Church. Nationally, Catholics have tended to relocate from the Northeast to the South and Southwest. In many large cities, such as Washington D.C. where I live, there have also been large shifts in the demographics of the city centers.
From the 1960s through the 1990s the “inner city” was synonymous with poverty. Housing there was considered substandard; government services and schools were thought nightmarishly poor; crime rates were high; boarded up buildings were common.
More recently the center city has become fashionable again. Weary of commuting and of a rather culturally bland existence in suburbs, many have chosen to return to the urban centers. Property values have soared, and renovation and new construction are visible everywhere.
From the 1960s through the 1990s the “inner city” was synonymous with poverty. Housing there was considered substandard; government services and schools were thought nightmarishly poor; crime rates were high; boarded up buildings were common.
More recently the center city has become fashionable again. Weary of commuting and of a rather culturally bland existence in suburbs, many have chosen to return to the urban centers. Property values have soared, and renovation and new construction are visible everywhere.
Here's the full text of the dubia cardinals’ letter asking Pope Francis for an audience
Full Text of Dubia Cardinals’ Letter Asking Pope for an Audience | ncregister.comPENTIN: Here below is the full text of the letter, signed by Cardinal Carlo Caffarra on behalf of the four dubia cardinals, asking Pope Francis for an audience to discuss deep concerns over the Pope’s apostolic exhortation on the family, Amoris Laetitia (The Joy of Love).
The Holy Father has yet to acknowledge the cardinals’ written request.
The Holy Father has yet to acknowledge the cardinals’ written request.
How the cost of light has fallen by a factor of 500,000
Blog | HumanProgress.org: As the BBC recently pointed out, our prehistoric ancestors needed to gather and chop “wood 10 hours a day for six days… [in order to] produce 1,000 lumen hours of light… That is the equivalent of one modern light bulb shining for just 54 minutes, although what you would actually get is many more hours of dim, flickering light instead.”
Even when better alternatives, such as candles, became available, it was still prohibitively expensive to light the house for the common person. Further, the first candles were produced from animal fat and not from the clean burning paraffin wax we use today, producing a flickering smelly flame.
It wasn’t until the 18th century that spermaceti candles, which were made from a waxy substance found in the head cavities of sperm whales, and were much less time-consuming to produce, became more readily available. But even then, reading light remained very expensive (not to mention terminal for the whales). George Washington calculated that five hours of reading per night cost him 8 yearly - well over $1,000 in today's dollars.
Even when better alternatives, such as candles, became available, it was still prohibitively expensive to light the house for the common person. Further, the first candles were produced from animal fat and not from the clean burning paraffin wax we use today, producing a flickering smelly flame.
It wasn’t until the 18th century that spermaceti candles, which were made from a waxy substance found in the head cavities of sperm whales, and were much less time-consuming to produce, became more readily available. But even then, reading light remained very expensive (not to mention terminal for the whales). George Washington calculated that five hours of reading per night cost him 8 yearly - well over $1,000 in today's dollars.
What is sacred music? The history is more complex than you might think...
What is Sacred Music? The History Is More Complex Than You Might Think - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: With the exception of chant, almost every form of music that is today regarded as sacred initially had a stormy reception in the Church before being admitted to the ranks of music commonly called “sacred.”
That music is controversial in the Church is nothing new, as we shall see in this modest survey of the history of music in Catholic liturgy. Some of my sources are listed at the end of this post, but it is really the product of many years of reading and studying.
On some level, I hope to provide some perspective on the claim that is often made today that certain modern forms of music are inadmissible because they are not “sacred.” In no way do I intend to approve of all forms of modern music nor to encourage the admission of all of them into the liturgy, but it is worth appreciating that the definition of “sacred music” has changed over time. New forms have been admitted— sometimes reluctantly—to the exalted class we refer to as “sacred music.”
That music is controversial in the Church is nothing new, as we shall see in this modest survey of the history of music in Catholic liturgy. Some of my sources are listed at the end of this post, but it is really the product of many years of reading and studying.
On some level, I hope to provide some perspective on the claim that is often made today that certain modern forms of music are inadmissible because they are not “sacred.” In no way do I intend to approve of all forms of modern music nor to encourage the admission of all of them into the liturgy, but it is worth appreciating that the definition of “sacred music” has changed over time. New forms have been admitted— sometimes reluctantly—to the exalted class we refer to as “sacred music.”
Monday, June 19, 2017
A Treasury official in 1866 put his own face on U.S. currency
A Treasury Official in 1866 Put His Own Face on U.S. Currency - Atlas Obscura: In 1866, Spencer M. Clark, then Superintendent of the National Currency Bureau, made a daring decision: to print his own face on U.S. currency.
Clark, who served as Superintendent from 1862 to 1868, had no authorization from his superiors to do this. But U.S. paper bills were in flux because of the recent introduction of fractional money, and as the supervisor of the new bills, he was in a unique position to influence the design.
From 1862 to 1876, the U.S. Treasury issued fractional money to combat a growing coin shortage. “At the beginning of the Civil War,” according to the website Antique Money, “people started hoarding coins for their precious metal content.” To avoid a crisis, the Treasury introduced paper money to represent a cent amount rather than a dollar amount. These fractional bills were physically smaller than dollars and consisted of three-cent, five-cent, 10-cent, 25-cent, and 50-cent notes.
Clark, who served as Superintendent from 1862 to 1868, had no authorization from his superiors to do this. But U.S. paper bills were in flux because of the recent introduction of fractional money, and as the supervisor of the new bills, he was in a unique position to influence the design.
From 1862 to 1876, the U.S. Treasury issued fractional money to combat a growing coin shortage. “At the beginning of the Civil War,” according to the website Antique Money, “people started hoarding coins for their precious metal content.” To avoid a crisis, the Treasury introduced paper money to represent a cent amount rather than a dollar amount. These fractional bills were physically smaller than dollars and consisted of three-cent, five-cent, 10-cent, 25-cent, and 50-cent notes.
Father's Day when your father has died
Father's Day when your father has died - AleteiaMILLS: I still miss my dad, though thank God not as intensely as I did the first few years. He died eleven years ago this coming July 5th.
He’d survived the lung cancer’s first attack. Almost to the day, when he should have gotten the news that after five years he was considered cured, the doctors found the cancer had returned. He didn’t have enough of his lungs left, or a strong enough heart, to survive. They gave him nine months, but I knew him. He was a stoic. He did not fight battles he knew he could not win. He had a month or two, but not three and certainly not nine.
He’d survived the lung cancer’s first attack. Almost to the day, when he should have gotten the news that after five years he was considered cured, the doctors found the cancer had returned. He didn’t have enough of his lungs left, or a strong enough heart, to survive. They gave him nine months, but I knew him. He was a stoic. He did not fight battles he knew he could not win. He had a month or two, but not three and certainly not nine.
4 ‘dubia’ cardinals release letter requesting audience with Pope Francis
Dubia Cardinals Seek Papal Audience | ncregister.comPENTIN: After seven months of not receiving a response from Pope Francis to their request that he clarify highly disputed parts in his apostolic exhortation Amoris Laetitia (The Joy of Love), four cardinals asked the Holy Father for an audience in April but the Pope has yet to respond, it has emerged.
In an April 25 letter hand-delivered to the Holy Father on May 6, Cardinals Carlo Caffarra, Walter Brandmüller, Raymond Burke and Joachim Meisner wrote to Francis asking for an audience, having received no response to the dubia they sent him on Sept. 19 last year.
The cardinals’ dubia, which they made public on Nov. 14, are five questions, or “doubts,” seeking simple “yes” or “no” answers about Amoris Laetitia, the Pope’s summary document on the 2014 and 2015 Synods on the Family.
In an April 25 letter hand-delivered to the Holy Father on May 6, Cardinals Carlo Caffarra, Walter Brandmüller, Raymond Burke and Joachim Meisner wrote to Francis asking for an audience, having received no response to the dubia they sent him on Sept. 19 last year.
The cardinals’ dubia, which they made public on Nov. 14, are five questions, or “doubts,” seeking simple “yes” or “no” answers about Amoris Laetitia, the Pope’s summary document on the 2014 and 2015 Synods on the Family.
An update on the drowned toddler who made a miraculous recovery
An Update on the Drowned Toddler Who Made a Miraculous Recovery | ncregister.comCHAPLIN: Almost six months after Joy Loboda heart stopped for nearly thirty minutes, she celebrates her second birthday with family and the medical professionals who saved her life.
When Matt pulled his daughter’s lifeless body out of his in-law’s pool and began performing CPR, he saw Joy’s pupils shrink to the size of a pinpoint. He felt sure that he was losing her. Even so, he and his wife Kristin prayed. They continued to pray after seeing the sorrowful look in the eyes of EMTs, and they persevered in prayer when doctors said that Joy's heart had begun beating again—though the outcome for her looked bleak. The Lobodas’ story of their little girl fighting for her life spread like wildfire and tens of thousands joined them in prayer. Joy’s uncle, Fr. Ignatius Mazanowski, F.H.S, even said Mass at her bedside several times. Twenty-seven days later, on January 25th, 2017, Joy—in the arms of her beaming mother—left the Phoenix Children’s Hospital, and by her second birthday, May 22, she was almost completely healed.
When Matt pulled his daughter’s lifeless body out of his in-law’s pool and began performing CPR, he saw Joy’s pupils shrink to the size of a pinpoint. He felt sure that he was losing her. Even so, he and his wife Kristin prayed. They continued to pray after seeing the sorrowful look in the eyes of EMTs, and they persevered in prayer when doctors said that Joy's heart had begun beating again—though the outcome for her looked bleak. The Lobodas’ story of their little girl fighting for her life spread like wildfire and tens of thousands joined them in prayer. Joy’s uncle, Fr. Ignatius Mazanowski, F.H.S, even said Mass at her bedside several times. Twenty-seven days later, on January 25th, 2017, Joy—in the arms of her beaming mother—left the Phoenix Children’s Hospital, and by her second birthday, May 22, she was almost completely healed.
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