The Blackhawks needed an emergency goalie, and an accountant from Oak Park saved the day | WGN-TV: In a Blackhawks season where you've come to expect the unexpected, this one might top them all.
But unlike many of the surprises from this year's team, this story is not only incredibly positive — it's downright inspirational.
During warmups for Thursday's game with the Jets, goaltender Anton Forsberg suffered a lower-leg injury. That forced backup Collin Delia, who was called up to replace J.F. Berube this week, into the starting role. In his place, the Blackhawks brought in an emergency goalie from the Johnny's Icehouse adult leagues.
Saturday, March 31, 2018
Holy Saturday and The Lord of the Rings
Holy Saturday and Lord of the Rings | Fr. Dwight LongeneckerLONGENECKER: One of Catholicism’s greatest contributions is the great artists it has produced. I have written elsewhere about how the deeply incarnation and sacramental vision of Catholicism helps to inspire art that works at a deeper level than anything the world (and non Catholic Christians) can produce.
One of the best examples of this is the comparison between Tolkien and Lewis.
J.R.R.Tolkien wove his Catholicism into The Lord of the Rings at the deepest of levels.
One of the best examples of this is the comparison between Tolkien and Lewis.
J.R.R.Tolkien wove his Catholicism into The Lord of the Rings at the deepest of levels.
Where was Jesus between His death and resurrection?
Where Is Jesus Between His Death and Resurrection? - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: Where is Christ after He dies on Friday afternoon and before He rises on Easter Sunday? Both Scripture and Tradition answer this question. Consider the following excerpt from a second century sermon as well as this meditation from the Catechism of the Catholic Church. Nothing could be more beautiful than that line addressed to Adam and Eve: I am your God, who for your sake have become your Son.
Holy Saturday 2018
12 Things You Need to Know About Holy Saturday: On Holy Saturday the earth waits in stillness for the Resurrection of the Lord. Here are 12 things you need to know about it.
Friday, March 30, 2018
You say that Christians don’t celebrate Passover? But of course we do. Easter is Passover...
Passover is for Christians as well as Jews -- Here's why | Fox NewsHAHN: For Christians as well as Jews, Passover – beginning at sundown Friday and ending at sundown on April 7 – is a particularly important holiday.
You say that Christians don’t celebrate Passover? But of course we do. Easter is Passover. Most modern languages bear witness to this and use similar words to describe both the Jewish and Christian holidays. The words are taken from Pesach, the Hebrew name for Passover. Spaniards call Easter Pascua. Italians call it Pasqua. And the Dutch say Pasen. In Zulu it’s IPhasika.
Only a few languages – English, German, Polish – give the Christian holiday a name unrelated to Passover. We call it “Easter,” though it loses much in that translation.
In ancient Israel, Passover was a sacrificial feast of massive proportions. The first century historian Josephus tells of one year when 255,660 lambs were slaughtered in the Jerusalem Temple. Other sources tell us that the city’s streams ran red with blood from the sacrifices.
You say that Christians don’t celebrate Passover? But of course we do. Easter is Passover. Most modern languages bear witness to this and use similar words to describe both the Jewish and Christian holidays. The words are taken from Pesach, the Hebrew name for Passover. Spaniards call Easter Pascua. Italians call it Pasqua. And the Dutch say Pasen. In Zulu it’s IPhasika.
Only a few languages – English, German, Polish – give the Christian holiday a name unrelated to Passover. We call it “Easter,” though it loses much in that translation.
In ancient Israel, Passover was a sacrificial feast of massive proportions. The first century historian Josephus tells of one year when 255,660 lambs were slaughtered in the Jerusalem Temple. Other sources tell us that the city’s streams ran red with blood from the sacrifices.
Pope Francis to have surgery for cataracts next year
Pope Francis to have surgery for cataracts next year: During a customary visit to a prison on Holy Thursday, Pope Francis revealed that he has cataracts and is planning to have an eye operation to correct them next year. The head of Regina Coeli prison in Rome made a comment during the visit about the importance of being “far-sighted” about prisoners’ rehabilitation.
8 favors men should ask their neighbors
8 Favors Men Should Ask Their Neighbors | The Art of Manliness: His dog, Mia, is 10 inches high at the spikiest hair on her pointiest ear. Or close to it.
JT and I have been neighbors for almost two decades. Telephone-pole JT and Mia the Mini stroll the streets every day on his lunch break. Quite a pair. Mia takes 47 steps for every Ent-like JT stride.
A couple of years ago, I asked JT if I could borrow his ax and maul to split some wood. (See #4 below.) He said yes, but only as long as he could come help. He didn’t seem worried about me or his tools, rather, he seemed eager, like I’d asked to borrow his football and was going to have all the fun by myself.
JT and I have been neighbors for almost two decades. Telephone-pole JT and Mia the Mini stroll the streets every day on his lunch break. Quite a pair. Mia takes 47 steps for every Ent-like JT stride.
A couple of years ago, I asked JT if I could borrow his ax and maul to split some wood. (See #4 below.) He said yes, but only as long as he could come help. He didn’t seem worried about me or his tools, rather, he seemed eager, like I’d asked to borrow his football and was going to have all the fun by myself.
The surprising reason that there are so many Thai restaurants in America
The Surprising Reason that There Are So Many Thai Restaurants in America - MUNCHIES: During my three years in New York City, Thai food was my default takeout and delivery order. This was a matter of both convenience and taste—there was a Thai spot on practically every block, and furthermore, I love the stuff. Like many Americans of my generation, I grew up with Thai cuisine, to the extent that Massaman curry and tom kha soup are among my comfort foods.
This is the dark night, the dance of Heaven, our redemption
This is the Dark Night, the Dance of Heaven, Our RedemptionDANBURKE: To be free of habitual mortal and venial sin is a glorious reality. To live within the beautiful rhythm of a rule of life, to dance in step with the heart of God, to have a tangible and near-constant experience of His peace and love is a gift beyond any other. To discover how easily the rhythm of this exquisite dance is broken can devastate a holy heart.
The beautiful ascetical rhythm of the committed pilgrim begins with reliance upon Christ and the sacraments. The soul continues to emerge from sin to holiness by the power of self-awareness, humility, and dependence on God as it wastes precious time in silent prayer with the One who reveals all and heals all.
The beautiful ascetical rhythm of the committed pilgrim begins with reliance upon Christ and the sacraments. The soul continues to emerge from sin to holiness by the power of self-awareness, humility, and dependence on God as it wastes precious time in silent prayer with the One who reveals all and heals all.
What can we learn from thieves on crosses?
What Can We Learn From Thieves on Crosses?CLARK: Within Luke’s Gospel narrative of the Passion of Christ, a mere five verses contain the story of two men who hung to the left and right of Jesus. The verses tell a story of love and hate, of hope and despair, of tragedy and triumph. Though their names are not mentioned in any of the Gospels, the good thief is historically identified as Dismas, while the unrepentant thief is identified as Gestas. Saint Luke records each man speaking only one sentence to Jesus, but it was this sentence that defined each of them forever.
Has China finally managed to convert the Vatican?
Catholic Church in China & the Vatican's Conversion | National ReviewFRANKOVICH: As Catholics worldwide headed into Holy Week, the most somber period in the Church calendar, news outlets kept afloat the rumor that in a few days the Vatican would announce a deal with the Communist government of the People’s Republic of China. It was hard to gauge the reaction of China’s Catholics, who number between 10 and 15 million, according to most estimates. Some Chinese prelates, not all of them in communion with Rome, have endorsed the push for an agreement whose central provision, it is widely assumed, is that the government would have a say in the appointment of bishops.
What Our Lord kept, and what He changed, in the Passover meal
From the Passover Seder to the Eucharist - Denver Catholic: The Mass wasn’t an invention of the apostles or something Jesus created out of nowhere. A long tradition says it was a transformation of a Jewish liturgy: The Passover meal, or Seder, as it later became known.
“While there’s debate about this point, there’s been a long tradition that [this was the case],” said Dr. Mark Giszczak Biblical scholar and professor at the Augustine Institute in Denver. “An attentive Jew would hear a lot of references to the Passover [at Mass].”
How did Jesus bring this about? With the help of Dr. Giszczak and Dr. Brant Pitre’s book, Jesus and the Jewish roots of the Eucharist, we try to illustrate the basic aspects of this tradition by describing the Passover meal, how Jesus kept it and how he transformed it during the Last Supper.
“While there’s debate about this point, there’s been a long tradition that [this was the case],” said Dr. Mark Giszczak Biblical scholar and professor at the Augustine Institute in Denver. “An attentive Jew would hear a lot of references to the Passover [at Mass].”
How did Jesus bring this about? With the help of Dr. Giszczak and Dr. Brant Pitre’s book, Jesus and the Jewish roots of the Eucharist, we try to illustrate the basic aspects of this tradition by describing the Passover meal, how Jesus kept it and how he transformed it during the Last Supper.
Unpacking a non-interview pope 'interview,' this time on Hell
Unpacking a non-interview pope 'interview,' this time on HellALLEN: From a believing Christian point of view, of course, Holy Week is hardly about a news cycle, because it represents the most sacred period of the year. From a strictly PR perspective, however, it’s also a collection of showcase moments on the Roman stage, when a pope has the world’s attention and thus a chance to get a message across.
Pope Francis, however, has never needed the help of news cycles or choreographed moments to draw attention - and, it has to be said, sometimes he displays a remarkable capacity to upstage even himself when those moments do roll around.
Holy Thursday this year served up a classic example of the pope stepping on his own story. The big news was supposed to come from two cornerstone liturgical moments, the pope’s Chrism Mass with priests in St. Peter’s Basilica and the Last Supper Mass, including the traditional foot-washing ceremony, at Rome’s best-known men’s prison, Regina Coeli.
Pope Francis, however, has never needed the help of news cycles or choreographed moments to draw attention - and, it has to be said, sometimes he displays a remarkable capacity to upstage even himself when those moments do roll around.
Holy Thursday this year served up a classic example of the pope stepping on his own story. The big news was supposed to come from two cornerstone liturgical moments, the pope’s Chrism Mass with priests in St. Peter’s Basilica and the Last Supper Mass, including the traditional foot-washing ceremony, at Rome’s best-known men’s prison, Regina Coeli.
Bishop’s fate highlights China’s power amid Vatican talks
Bishop's Fate Highlights China's Power Amid Vatican Talks - The New York Times: The twin-spired church in this southern Chinese village was packed with more than a thousand Catholics observing Good Friday, but the bishop who tends to the congregation was not among them. Just a day earlier, government agents had taken him away.
Bishop Guo Xijin is at the center of talks between the Vatican and the atheist Communist Party that will likely yield a deal on who appoints bishops in China. The move would be historic, uniting the country's Catholics for the first time since Beijing and the Holy See severed relations nearly seven decades ago.
Bishop Guo Xijin is at the center of talks between the Vatican and the atheist Communist Party that will likely yield a deal on who appoints bishops in China. The move would be historic, uniting the country's Catholics for the first time since Beijing and the Holy See severed relations nearly seven decades ago.
China keeps tight rein on bishop as Vatican deal looms (WSJ paywall)
China Keeps Tight Rein on Bishop as Vatican Deal Looms - WSJ: Chinese officials allowed an underground Catholic bishop to celebrate Holy Thursday Mass after concerns about his treatment risked upsetting efforts by Beijing and the Vatican to end a decadeslong rift.
Good Friday 2018
9 Things You Need to Know About Good Friday: Good Friday is the most somber day of the Christian year. Here are 9 things you need to know...
Of Mr. Milewski, pizza, and a laden cross
Of Mr. Milewski, Pizza, and a Laden Cross | God-Haunted LunaticBECKER: There are two memories I associate with Steven Milewski, my childhood chum. One is his dad, a taciturn man who worked the night shift and was rarely around when I was over at Steven’s house. Sometimes on the weekend, I’d be present when the man arrived home midmorning, bedraggled, weary, downcast. There’d be brief nods and greetings, and then a barely discernible shift in household atmosphere as the blue-collar warrior trudged upstairs for his daytime repose. Steven and I would keep playing army men or whatever, but we’d do it quieter, much quieter. No more grenades and explosions. No more total war on the hardwood floor.
The mystery of the three crosses
The Mystery of the Three Crosses | Fr. Dwight LongeneckerLONGENECKER: The three crosses on the hill of Golgotha carry deep symbolic meaning, but you have to dig down into the beliefs of first century Judaism to discover the full meaning. Brant Pitre’s The Jewish Roots of Holy Week has been brilliant for bringing out some of these details.
First we ask why the cross has been referred to as “the tree”. There are a couple of reasons. A gallows is usually referred to as a “tree”. For example the gallows at Tyburn in London where the English martyrs were hung, drawn and quartered is called “Tyburn Tree.”
This is also a reference to the Old Testament verse which called down a curse on anyone who either hung himself (like Judas) or anyone who was executed.”Cursed is he who hangs upon the tree”
First we ask why the cross has been referred to as “the tree”. There are a couple of reasons. A gallows is usually referred to as a “tree”. For example the gallows at Tyburn in London where the English martyrs were hung, drawn and quartered is called “Tyburn Tree.”
This is also a reference to the Old Testament verse which called down a curse on anyone who either hung himself (like Judas) or anyone who was executed.”Cursed is he who hangs upon the tree”
A Catholic quest for the Holy Grail
Seeking Jesus at Easter: A Catholic Quest for the Holy Grail | National ReviewLOPEZ: These holy days of the Sacred Triduum — Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday, emptying themselves into the glory of Easter — are days when Christians find themselves seeking to become closer to Jesus Christ, to encounter Him in new and deeper ways. This can include encounters with holy things, such as relics, or meditations on the Divine Person and His Sacred Heart, Holy Face, and Precious Blood. These are all realities of an incarnational faith, drawing us in deeper. For these reasons and others, Charles A. Coulombe has written A Catholic Quest for the Holy Grail, which he talks about here.
Thursday, March 29, 2018
Lettergate 2.0: Vatican retracts claim it had permission to publish Benedict’s letter
Lettergate 2.0: Vatican retracts claim it had permission to publish Benedict’s letter | News | LifeSite: As we reported on 23 March, Father Bernd Hagenkord, S.J., the high-ranking managing editor of the official Vatican news service, Vatican News – which had been supervised by Monsignor Dario Viganò until the "Lettergate" scandal – claimed in a comment under his own blog post concerning the Viganò scandal that the "partial publication" of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI's letter was "agreed upon" with Benedict himself. In that post, he tried to downplay the whole Lettergate scandal, claiming that no one had been really hurt in this minor incident, with Monsignor Viganó just making a "mistake." Later on, the German bishops' news website picked up on his claim about Benedict's purported approval and reported on it.
At the tomb of Christ we meet the Risen One and experience the reality of what he promises
At the tomb of Christ we meet the Risen One and experience the reality of what he promises - The AngelusLOPEZ: There’s a photo that ran in one of the New York City tabloids some years ago with Cardinal Timothy Dolan sitting on the steps of a long, narrow stairway. His head is bowed down and he is praying the Rosary. The steps are in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem that go up to the altar built where Jesus is believed to have been crucified and died on Calvary. Those steps mean just about everything in the world to me. Jesus did it for me, there, after all. He accepted this tortuous death and there it was finished — only for our new lives in hope of the promise of eternity to begin.
Today, sing the ancient chant ‘Ubi Caritas!’
Today, Sing “Ubi Caritas!” | Classical Catholic EducationLANGLEY: Today, Holy Thursday, is the day for singing the ancient chant Ubi Caritas!
Ubi caritas et amor, Deus ibi est.
Congregavit nos in unum Christi amor.
Exultemus, et in ipso iucundemur.
Timeamus, et amemus Deum vivum.
Et ex corde diligamus nos sincero. Which I translate freely,
Where charity and love are, there is God. The love of Christ has gathered us into one. Let us exult, and let us take delight in Him. Let us fear and let us love the living God. Let us love us (i.e. nos- ourselves, one another) out of a sincere heart.
Ubi caritas et amor, Deus ibi est.
Congregavit nos in unum Christi amor.
Exultemus, et in ipso iucundemur.
Timeamus, et amemus Deum vivum.
Et ex corde diligamus nos sincero. Which I translate freely,
Where charity and love are, there is God. The love of Christ has gathered us into one. Let us exult, and let us take delight in Him. Let us fear and let us love the living God. Let us love us (i.e. nos- ourselves, one another) out of a sincere heart.
Lust, humility, and severed fingers
Lust, Humility, and Severed FingersCRAIG: In Father Sergius, a short story by Leo Tolstoy, a wealthy Russian nobleman enters a monastery under questionable motives, but ended up genuinely striving for holiness and virtue, and even finding that the battle for sanctity was worth it! Despite his progress, he constantly felt weak in his faith, and unceasingly begged God to grant more. He was humble.
After seven years living as a hermit, an attractive woman visited who was bent on seducing him (he was well known as a very handsome hermit). What she didn’t know was that just before she arrived he had been nearly overcome with thoughts of lust, so she had come at just the “right” time.
After seven years living as a hermit, an attractive woman visited who was bent on seducing him (he was well known as a very handsome hermit). What she didn’t know was that just before she arrived he had been nearly overcome with thoughts of lust, so she had come at just the “right” time.
Crazed girls flood Parkland school shooter Nikolas Cruz with fan mail
Crazed girls flood Parkland school shooter Nikolas Cruz with fan mail - Sun Sentinel: Mass murderer Nikolas Cruz is getting stacks of fan mail and love letters sent to the Broward County jail, along with hundreds of dollars in contributions to his commissary account.
Teenage girls, women and even older men are writing to the Parkland school shooter and sending photographs — some suggestive — tucked inside cute greeting cards and attached to notebook paper with offers of friendship and encouragement. Groupies also are joining Facebook communities to talk about how to help the killer.
Teenage girls, women and even older men are writing to the Parkland school shooter and sending photographs — some suggestive — tucked inside cute greeting cards and attached to notebook paper with offers of friendship and encouragement. Groupies also are joining Facebook communities to talk about how to help the killer.
Lessons from the Rabbi on the Cross
Lessons from the Rabbi on the Cross | Word On FireSCALIA: “Son of David, have pity on me!” The cry was directed toward Jesus as he was leaving Jericho, and the blind man who shouted it out, Bartimaeus, must have sounded particularly needful and desperate because amid the noisy throng, he managed to catch the Lord’s attention. One imagines Jesus alertly turning—scanning the crowd until he locates the voice. He tells his disciples to bring the man to him.
“What is it you want me to do for you?” Jesus asks. Bartimaeus replies simply, “Rabbi, I want to see.”
“What is it you want me to do for you?” Jesus asks. Bartimaeus replies simply, “Rabbi, I want to see.”
CNA’s Easter candy recommendations (warning: both reviewers are unjustly anti-Peeps, and one hates jelly beans)
Mary and Christine explain the reasons behind Easter symbols (and also tell you which candy to buy) - CNA Blog - CNA Blog: My good friend Ben texts me (Christine) every year during this time and asks what rabbits and eggs have to do with the resurrection of Christ.
Well, Ben, this year Mary and I have some good news: we’ve solved the case. To help Easter bunnies with candy selection, we’ve sampled entirely way too much candy for Lent, researched some background on the real meaning behind Easter symbols–and have some sugary suggestions...
Well, Ben, this year Mary and I have some good news: we’ve solved the case. To help Easter bunnies with candy selection, we’ve sampled entirely way too much candy for Lent, researched some background on the real meaning behind Easter symbols–and have some sugary suggestions...
Walk the Way of the Cross with today’s Christian martyrs
Walk the Way of the Cross with Today’s Christian Martyrs | arcoftheuniverse.infoPHILPOTT: This week is Holy Week for Christians and a good occasion to remember today’s Christian martyrs. The Community of Sant’Egidio, which journalist John Allen recently dubbed “The Pope’s Favorite Movement,” does just that through its annual prayer for martyrs — in which the names of recent ones are read out — in the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran in Rome that takes place Tuesday of every Holy Week. Local Sant’Egidio communities, including ours here in South Bend, Indiana (where I am a member), follow suit with their own annual prayer of remembrance.
Spanish flags to fly at half-staff to mark the death of Christ
Spanish flags to fly at half-mast to mark death of Christ | CatholicHerald.co.uk: The Spanish flag will fly at half-mast on all military buildings including the Ministry of Defence in Madrid to commemorate the death of Christ this Holy Week.
In a statement, the ministry said all units, bases, barracks will lower the flag from 2pm on Maundy Thursday to 12.01am on Easter Sunday “as is traditional”.
The ministry explained that the practice dates back several decades and “forms part of the secular tradition of the armed forces”.
The Spanish military will take part in 152 parades and celebrations to mark Holy Week in 80 cities across the country this year, including Seville, Granada, Madrid and the Canary Islands.
In a statement, the ministry said all units, bases, barracks will lower the flag from 2pm on Maundy Thursday to 12.01am on Easter Sunday “as is traditional”.
The ministry explained that the practice dates back several decades and “forms part of the secular tradition of the armed forces”.
The Spanish military will take part in 152 parades and celebrations to mark Holy Week in 80 cities across the country this year, including Seville, Granada, Madrid and the Canary Islands.
A good priest makes Christ present to his people, Pope says at Chrism Mass
A good priest makes Christ present to his people, Pope says at Chrism Mass: At his annual Chrism Mass on Holy Thursday, Pope Francis said that a good priest is one who is close to his flock and who makes Jesus’ presence felt in people’s lives – as more than an abstract idea. “A priest who is close to his people walks among them with the closeness and tenderness of a good shepherd; in shepherding them, he goes at times before them, at times remains in their midst and at other times walks behind them,” the Pope said March 29.
Don’t trust the claims that Pope Francis doesn’t believe in hell
Don’t trust the claims that Pope Francis doesn’t believe in hell | CatholicHerald.co.uk: Italy’s daily La Repubblica newspaper ran another “colloquy” this morning, between the paper’s 93-year-old atheist founder, Eugenio Scalfari, and the 81-year-old Bishop of Rome, Francis. To hear Scalfari tell it, he and the Pope discussed a broad array of topics ranging from cosmogenesis, to the eternal fate of those who die in sin, to the present and future of Europe.
To hear Scalfari tell it is not, however, satisfactory or even acceptable according to the Press Office of the Holy See, which issued the following statement regarding the piece that appeared in La Repubblica under it founder’s by-line
To hear Scalfari tell it is not, however, satisfactory or even acceptable according to the Press Office of the Holy See, which issued the following statement regarding the piece that appeared in La Repubblica under it founder’s by-line
10 things you need to know about Holy Thursday
10 Things You Need to Know About Holy ThursdayAKIN: Every single Mass, we hear the words "on the night he was betrayed." That night was Holy Thursday, and it is one of the most important nights in all of history. Here are 10 things you need to know. So what happened on the original Holy Thursday? An amazing amount of stuff! This was one of the most pivotal days in the life of Jesus Christ. Here are some of the things the gospels record for this day, including events that happened after midnight...
Passiontide Chronology: Holy Thursday
Passiontide Chronology: Holy Thursday - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: According to the Synoptic Gospels, sundown of Holy Thursday ushered in the Passover. Later on this evening, the Lord will celebrate the Passover meal with His disciples. We ought to be mindful that the unleavened bread Jesus will take in His hands is called “the bread of affliction.” Scripture says, You shall eat [the Passover] with unleavened bread, the bread of affliction—for you came out of the land of Egypt in haste—that all the days of your life you may remember the day when you came out of the land of Egypt (Dt 16:3).
Indeed, this is an evening of affliction for Jesus. Much transpires at the Last Supper that is emblematic of our human foibles and sinful tendencies, but thanks be to God, He takes this “bread of affliction” we dish out to Him and lifts it to the glory of the Sacrament of His Body and Blood.
Indeed, this is an evening of affliction for Jesus. Much transpires at the Last Supper that is emblematic of our human foibles and sinful tendencies, but thanks be to God, He takes this “bread of affliction” we dish out to Him and lifts it to the glory of the Sacrament of His Body and Blood.
Watch: Child cancer survivor's wish to meet Pope Francis comes true
New Advent: Child cancer survivor's wish to meet Pope Francis comes true: When Make A Wish asked a young cancer patient what he would like, he said that he wanted a kiss from Pope Francis. On March 28, 2018, his wish came true.
The Catholic Lazy Intellectual Starter Kit
The Catholic Lazy Intellectual Starter KitANTONETTI: My dad always used to send me theological articles to read, like Hans Von Balthasar's essay, “Does Original Sin Exist?” Steeped in toddlers at the time, I couldn’t wrap my brain around them, so I scribbled back, “Yes. Next question.” I still have the essay, and I still struggle with some of the denser work available for someone seeking to grow in understanding of the faith. Like a person who does not know wine, being given too fine a vintage, I know it’s good. I also know I’m not ready for it. Still, he lit the spark, which is all the Holy Spirit asks of any parent. Recognizing my own need to learn more, I created a folder called “Sherry's Continuing Catholic Education” and began filling it with articles and writers I knew had a relationship with Christ, and loved the Catholic Church. That organic decision led to a library which I now present as a Catholic Reader starter kit for those wading into the rich waters of our literary and faith tradition. It's my own list of necessary staples for your Catholic brain and heart’s pantry.
‘Adventures in Imperfect Living’ comic: Get in the van!
Comic: Get in the Van! | Greg and Jennifer Willits - Adventures in Imperfect Living: Every time I draw one of these strips, inevitably someone tries to explain to me how something wasn’t true to life. For example, (the real) Jennifer just looked at this and said, “Ben and Tommy would never wear ties.”
Earlier, Walt looked at the second panel and said, “I’ve never had a shirt like that.”
I’m sure someone else will point out that our oldest son, Sam, moved out of the house last year and now lives on the other side of the country, and we have no plans for him to be home for Easter.
Alas, I still think this is funny.
Earlier, Walt looked at the second panel and said, “I’ve never had a shirt like that.”
I’m sure someone else will point out that our oldest son, Sam, moved out of the house last year and now lives on the other side of the country, and we have no plans for him to be home for Easter.
Alas, I still think this is funny.
Wednesday, March 28, 2018
India’s Christians fault prime minister for rising tide of persecution by Hindus
Narendra Modi blamed in rise of India's Christian persecution - Washington Times: Religious clashes in the troubled northern Indian state of Jamma and Kashmir are nothing new, but the riot that broke in January targeted an unexpected group: Christians.
While most of the state’s problems pit an Islamist separatist movement against India’s Hindu majority, Christianity was at the heart of the violence this time as a mob of thousands interrupted a burial ceremony to seize the body of the deceased for a Hindu cremation.
Local Christians and international religious rights groups say anti-Christian incidents are on the rise, particularly since Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party assumed power in 2014. They contend that the government’s failure to censure local leaders for inflammatory rhetoric and sectarian persecution has encouraged a culture of impunity for anti-minority violence — a charge the BJP denies.
While most of the state’s problems pit an Islamist separatist movement against India’s Hindu majority, Christianity was at the heart of the violence this time as a mob of thousands interrupted a burial ceremony to seize the body of the deceased for a Hindu cremation.
Local Christians and international religious rights groups say anti-Christian incidents are on the rise, particularly since Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party assumed power in 2014. They contend that the government’s failure to censure local leaders for inflammatory rhetoric and sectarian persecution has encouraged a culture of impunity for anti-minority violence — a charge the BJP denies.
Pope Francis says Mafiosi ‘carry death,’ can't call themselves Christian
Pope Says Mafiosi 'Carry Death', Can't Call Themselves Christian - The New York Times: Pope Francis on Wednesday told members of the Mafia in Italy, where many go to Church and worship openly, that they cannot call themselves Christians because they "carry death in their souls".
Francis' improvised words before tens of thousands of people at his weekly general audience in St. Peter's Square was his strongest attack on organized crime in nearly four years.
"So we don't have to go far, let's think about what happens right here at home (Italy)," he said while speaking generally about "fake Christians" who are corrupt while pretending to be righteous.
Francis' improvised words before tens of thousands of people at his weekly general audience in St. Peter's Square was his strongest attack on organized crime in nearly four years.
"So we don't have to go far, let's think about what happens right here at home (Italy)," he said while speaking generally about "fake Christians" who are corrupt while pretending to be righteous.
Planned Parenthood deletes tweet calling for ‘a Disney princess who's had an abortion’
Planned Parenthood Deletes Tweet Calling for Disney Abortion - The New York Times: A Pennsylvania branch of Planned Parenthood says a tweet declaring the need for a Disney princess who's had an abortion was not appropriate and the organization has taken it down.
An executive for Planned Parenthood Keystone says the group believes pop culture plays a "critical role" in educating the public and sparking "meaningful conversations about sexual and reproductive health issues and policies, including abortion."
An executive for Planned Parenthood Keystone says the group believes pop culture plays a "critical role" in educating the public and sparking "meaningful conversations about sexual and reproductive health issues and policies, including abortion."
The poison of private interpretation of the Bible
The Poison of Private Interpretation | Fr. Dwight LongeneckerLONGENECKER: As a good Evangelical boy I had to memorize Bible verses, and one of those verses was, “No scripture is of private interpretation.” (I Pt. 1:20)
In the context Peter is teaching that the prophets did not make things up, but were inspired by God. However, the church has extended the understanding of the verse to mean that not only are the words inspired by God, but the interpretation of the words is also not to be private. That the epistle was from St Peter–the primary apostle–Catholic religion has developed the teaching to mean that Scripture itself cannot be interpreted however you like.
In the context Peter is teaching that the prophets did not make things up, but were inspired by God. However, the church has extended the understanding of the verse to mean that not only are the words inspired by God, but the interpretation of the words is also not to be private. That the epistle was from St Peter–the primary apostle–Catholic religion has developed the teaching to mean that Scripture itself cannot be interpreted however you like.
Just sit in the church during a penance service
Just sit in the church during a penance serviceMILLS: You can’t look for your wife at a time like that without having people either look away or glare at you. Our church had a penance service Monday night. I had just gone to confession, so I dropped my wife at the church and drove 10 blocks to the other end of the small town on the river, to take some things to St. Vincent de Paul. I assumed, and this was stupid, that I’d come back to find her in a short line or sitting in the pews.
At Mass the day before, our pastor had reminded us of the service. “We’ll have seven priests,” he said, emphasizing the number. “We’ll feed them well, we’ll pay them well …” His voice trailed off and he paused, then looked around at the congregation. “I hope they’ll have something to do.”
At Mass the day before, our pastor had reminded us of the service. “We’ll have seven priests,” he said, emphasizing the number. “We’ll feed them well, we’ll pay them well …” His voice trailed off and he paused, then looked around at the congregation. “I hope they’ll have something to do.”
Spy Wednesday: A lesson in how to avoid becoming a spy for the darkness
Spy Wednesday: Are We Spies for the Darkness?BUNSON: Today is traditionally called “Spy Wednesday” because this is the day that Judas Iscariot betrayed our Lord to the Sanhedrin. Judas became a spy for the Enemy. He watched Jesus and the Disciples and waited for the moment to betray them all, and he betrayed the Christ with a kiss.
All three Synoptic Gospels include the account, as it is an important moment in the events of the Passion. Each provides a few details that are worth considering.
Matthew tells us that Judas betrayed Jesus for 30 pieces of silver, while Luke paints a diabolical picture of the conspiracy to destroy Jesus
All three Synoptic Gospels include the account, as it is an important moment in the events of the Passion. Each provides a few details that are worth considering.
Matthew tells us that Judas betrayed Jesus for 30 pieces of silver, while Luke paints a diabolical picture of the conspiracy to destroy Jesus
Today marks the day Judas Iscariot asked for money to betray Jesus
Spy WednesdaySHEA: Today commemorates the day Judas Iscariot went to the Sanhedrin and asked for money to betray Jesus.
This is one of those passages in Scripture where the sacred author is obliged, of necessity, to reconstruct, rather than report what Judas said to the Sanhedrin for the very good reason that he was not there, nor were any of the eyewitnesses to the Passion.� Judas did his dirty work on the sly and none of the friends of Jesus knew he was plotting to betray Jesus.� Nor did he wish them to know.
This is one of those passages in Scripture where the sacred author is obliged, of necessity, to reconstruct, rather than report what Judas said to the Sanhedrin for the very good reason that he was not there, nor were any of the eyewitnesses to the Passion.� Judas did his dirty work on the sly and none of the friends of Jesus knew he was plotting to betray Jesus.� Nor did he wish them to know.
Dick Vitale on Loyola and Sister Jean: ‘They are all awesome, baby’
Dick Vitale on Loyola and Sister Jean: 'They are all awesome, baby' - Chicago Tribune: Dick Vitale has a message for Cubs manager Joe Maddon.
“Tell my buddy Joe to move over, the star of stars in the Windy City is Sister Jean (Dolores Schmidt) and Porter Moser — and he is No. 3,’’ Vitale told the Tribune in a phone interview. “Sister Jean is the star of the NCAA tournament and Chicago. It’s amazing. She captivated America, a 98-year-old woman who speaks as well as she does, has a smile on her face. I told a friend of mine in Detroit, tell your (Michigan) Wolverines, it’s pretty hard to go up against God, man.’’
“Tell my buddy Joe to move over, the star of stars in the Windy City is Sister Jean (Dolores Schmidt) and Porter Moser — and he is No. 3,’’ Vitale told the Tribune in a phone interview. “Sister Jean is the star of the NCAA tournament and Chicago. It’s amazing. She captivated America, a 98-year-old woman who speaks as well as she does, has a smile on her face. I told a friend of mine in Detroit, tell your (Michigan) Wolverines, it’s pretty hard to go up against God, man.’’
Bulgaria says leading intellectual Julia Kristeva, participant in Vatican’s 2011 Assisi event, was a communist agent
Bulgaria says leading intellectual Julia Kristeva was communist agent: Renowned Bulgarian psychoanalyst and philosopher Julia Kristeva, who has lived in France since the mid-1960s, worked as an agent and collaborator with the Balkan country’s secret service during the communist era, a state commission said.
Francis visits Benedict XVI for first time after doctored letter scandal
Pope visits retired pontiff after doctored letter scandal: Pope Francis met Tuesday with Emeritus Pope Benedict XVI in the first known contact between the two, following a major gaffe by Francis’s communications chief over his misrepresentation of a letter from the retired pontiff.
The Vatican press office said Francis called on Benedict to bring him Easter greetings.
The meeting, however, came a week after Francis’s hand-picked communications czar, Monsignor Dario Vigano, was forced to resign over the so-called Lettergate scandal.
Vigano partially revealed the contents of a private letter from Benedict to make it seem as if he endorsed a new Vatican-published volume of 11 books about Francis’s theology, which Vigano had launched on the eve of Francis’s fifth anniversary as pope.
The Vatican press office said Francis called on Benedict to bring him Easter greetings.
The meeting, however, came a week after Francis’s hand-picked communications czar, Monsignor Dario Vigano, was forced to resign over the so-called Lettergate scandal.
Vigano partially revealed the contents of a private letter from Benedict to make it seem as if he endorsed a new Vatican-published volume of 11 books about Francis’s theology, which Vigano had launched on the eve of Francis’s fifth anniversary as pope.
On Spy Wednesday, we think sadly of the feast day never celebrated: ‘The Repentance of Judas’
Passiontide Chronology: Wednesday of Holy Week - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: Two momentous days have passed: On Monday there was the cleansing of the Temple and the laments over Jerusalem’s lack of faith; Tuesday featured exhaustive teachings by Jesus and interrogations by His opponents.
Today, Wednesday, it would seem that Jesus stays in Bethany. According to Matthew’s Gospel, the day begins with an ominous warning...
Today, Wednesday, it would seem that Jesus stays in Bethany. According to Matthew’s Gospel, the day begins with an ominous warning...
Community of Sant’Egidio, ‘Pope's favorite movement,’ welcomes Syrian refugees to Rome
'Pope's favorite movement' welcomes Syrian refugees to RomeALLEN: When scrums of reporters congregate at an airport to witness someone’s arrival, it’s almost always a celebrity at the center of the storm - a head of state in town for a summit, for instance, or a movie star on hand for a film festival, or something of the sort.
On Tuesday, however, about 100 journalists made their way to a waiting area at Rome’s Fiumicino Airport to watch roughly 40 Syrian refugees set foot on Italian soil for the first time after flying in from Beirut. They’re being resettled in Italy as part of an ecumenical “humanitarian corridors” effort, spearheaded by the Community of Sant’Egidio, one of the “new movements” in the Catholic Church.
On Tuesday, however, about 100 journalists made their way to a waiting area at Rome’s Fiumicino Airport to watch roughly 40 Syrian refugees set foot on Italian soil for the first time after flying in from Beirut. They’re being resettled in Italy as part of an ecumenical “humanitarian corridors” effort, spearheaded by the Community of Sant’Egidio, one of the “new movements” in the Catholic Church.
Pope’s Wednesday Audience: ‘This Easter, let the eyes of your soul be washed’
GENERAL AUDIENCE: On the Easter Triduum – ZENIT – English: This morning’s General Audience was held at 9:30 in St. Peter’s Square, where the Holy Father Francis met with groups of pilgrims and faithful from Italy and from all over the world.
In his address in Italian, the Pope focused his meditation on the Paschal Triduum (1 Corinthians 5:7-8).
After summarizing his catechesis in several languages, the Holy Father expressed special greetings to groups of faithful present.
The General Audience ended with the singing of the Pater Noster and the Apostolic Blessing.
In his address in Italian, the Pope focused his meditation on the Paschal Triduum (1 Corinthians 5:7-8).
After summarizing his catechesis in several languages, the Holy Father expressed special greetings to groups of faithful present.
The General Audience ended with the singing of the Pater Noster and the Apostolic Blessing.
At event organized by Archbishop Gomez, and held in Bishop Vann’s diocese, speaker reportedly advocates liturgical, other abuses
When bishops don’t fulfill their duties | Catholic Culture: Year after year the Religious Education Conference (REC) in Los Angeles produces a new raft of horror stories: accounts about speakers who gleefully dismiss the established teachings of the Church, cheered on by an audience composed largely of people who are paid, by one American diocese or another, to instruct young people in the Catholic faith. Why does Archbishop Gomez tolerate this festival of dissent? I don’t know.
This year, Joseph Sciambra reports, a priest who works in the Los Angeles archdiocese exhorted parochial-school teachers to “affirm” 2nd and 3rd-graders who announce that they are exploring a different gender identity or sexual preference. To encourage little children in that direction strikes me as a form of child abuse. In fact the word “millstone” pops into my mind. Still that advice was not the most shocking statement that Father Chris Ponnet made.
This year, Joseph Sciambra reports, a priest who works in the Los Angeles archdiocese exhorted parochial-school teachers to “affirm” 2nd and 3rd-graders who announce that they are exploring a different gender identity or sexual preference. To encourage little children in that direction strikes me as a form of child abuse. In fact the word “millstone” pops into my mind. Still that advice was not the most shocking statement that Father Chris Ponnet made.
China releases Bishop Guo Xijin, but bans him from celebrating Chrism Mass
CHINA-VATICAN Mindong, Msgr. Guo is back, but banned from celebrating Chrism Mass as bishop: Bishop Vincent Guo Xijin was returned yesterday to his house, after being held overnight in police custody. He had been detained by public security officials on the evening of March 26, together with the chancellor of the diocese. Msgr. Guo, 59, is ordinary bishop of Mindong, recognized by the Holy See, but not by the government, which instead supports the illegitimate bishop Msgr. Zhan Silu, who thus far is still excommunicated.
Under a possible agreement between China and the Vatican that many rumor is "imminent", Msgr. Guo has been asked to step aside in favor of leaving the role of ordinary bishop of the diocese to Msgr. Zhan. The latter has already requested reconciliation with the Holy See, but so far there has been no public proclamation of the lifting of the excommunication.
Under a possible agreement between China and the Vatican that many rumor is "imminent", Msgr. Guo has been asked to step aside in favor of leaving the role of ordinary bishop of the diocese to Msgr. Zhan. The latter has already requested reconciliation with the Holy See, but so far there has been no public proclamation of the lifting of the excommunication.
China frees ‘underground’ Chinese bishop Guo Xijin
China frees Vatican-affiliated Chinese bishop Guo Xijin: sources | Hong Kong Free Press HKFP: Chinese police have released an underground bishop after holding him for a day, sources told AFP on Wednesday, as Beijing and the Vatican prepare to seal a historic agreement on the appointment of prelates.
Vincent Guo Xijin, bishop of the diocese of Mindong in the southeastern province of Fujian, was at the centre of the controversial deal after being urged by the Vatican to step aside for a prelate recognised by China’s Communist government.
Vincent Guo Xijin, bishop of the diocese of Mindong in the southeastern province of Fujian, was at the centre of the controversial deal after being urged by the Vatican to step aside for a prelate recognised by China’s Communist government.
Tuesday, March 27, 2018
A trip back and forth across Switzerland’s invisible linguistic borders
BBC - Travel - Switzerland’s invisible linguistic borders: It was one of the shortest train rides I had ever taken: just seven minutes and one stop from the Swiss city of Neuchâtel. Yet when I disembarked in the small town of Erlach, everything seemed, somehow, different. At first, I couldn’t put my finger on it. Something about the architecture perhaps? People’s body language? Even the air, crisp and ridiculously fresh in that distinctively Swiss way, felt somehow changed.
Chinese authorities arrest ‘underground’ bishop ahead of possible Vatican agreement
CHINA-VATICAN Mindong, Msgr. Guo Xijin kidnapped by the police before Easter: Msgr. Vincent Guo Xijin, bishop of Mindong (Fujian), was kidnapped last night by police. The Chancellor of the Diocese, Fr. Xu, was also led away.
Msgr. Guo, 59, is the ordinary bishop of the diocese, recognized by the Vatican, but not by the government. In recent months he had been approached by Vatican diplomat Abp. Claudio Maria Celli, who had asked him to step aside and leave the seat of the diocese to excommunicated bishop Msgr. Vincent Zhan Silu, who is recognized by the government.
In return, Msgr. Guo would be given the title of auxiliary bishop. The demotion of Msgr. Guo, as well as the resignation of Msgr. Zhuang, bishop of Shantou, were hailed as the sign of a "historic" agreement between the Chinese government and the Vatican.
Msgr. Guo, 59, is the ordinary bishop of the diocese, recognized by the Vatican, but not by the government. In recent months he had been approached by Vatican diplomat Abp. Claudio Maria Celli, who had asked him to step aside and leave the seat of the diocese to excommunicated bishop Msgr. Vincent Zhan Silu, who is recognized by the government.
In return, Msgr. Guo would be given the title of auxiliary bishop. The demotion of Msgr. Guo, as well as the resignation of Msgr. Zhuang, bishop of Shantou, were hailed as the sign of a "historic" agreement between the Chinese government and the Vatican.
Here’s what the 2018 Synod assembly really needs
Getting ready for Synod-2018 - Denver CatholicWEIGEL: The headline on the March 3 story at the CRUX website was certainly arresting — “Cardinal on charges of rigged synods: ‘There was no maneuvering!’” The cardinal in question was Lorenzo Baldisseri, secretary-general of the Synod of Bishops, and not only were his voluble comments striking, they were also a bit disconcerting. Did I simply imagine the uproar on the floor of the Synod on October 16, 2014, as bishop after bishop protested an interim report generated by Baldisseri and his colleague, Archbishop Bruno Forte, that did not reflect the discussions of the previous two weeks? Were the complaints about the suffocating Synod procedures Cardinal Baldisseri outlined prior to Synod-2015 an illusion?
Love the Sister Jean story? Take a cue from Loyola players on how to treat the elderly...
Love the Sister Jean story? Take a cue from Loyola players on how to treat the elderly - Chicago Tribune: Loyola’s basketball players’ hearts raced as they sprinted toward the fan section at Philips Arena in Atlanta.
They roared toward the rafters in exhilaration and collided into each other with aggressive bear hugs, playfully punching each other in celebration as college students in their 20s are apt to do.
They had just made it official that they were headed to the Final Four — one of the biggest moments of their young lives. It was Saturday night. It was time to party.
They roared toward the rafters in exhilaration and collided into each other with aggressive bear hugs, playfully punching each other in celebration as college students in their 20s are apt to do.
They had just made it official that they were headed to the Final Four — one of the biggest moments of their young lives. It was Saturday night. It was time to party.
Sanity means seeing the fine line between self-confidence and self-delusion...
We Renounce the Old World | Charles J. Chaput | First ThingsCHAPUT: I was twenty and a seminarian in 1964. It was an odd and urgent time, the peak of national self-confidence and anxiety, the height of the Cold War. It was a bipolar world, almost satisfying in its clarity. A godless Soviet Union and its puppet states faced a God-fearing America and its allies in the causes of freedom and democracy.
The differences were stark. For anyone awake early enough on a Midwest Sunday morning, TV programming would often start with Air Force fighter jet footage set to “The Pilot’s Prayer” by John Gillespie Magee
The differences were stark. For anyone awake early enough on a Midwest Sunday morning, TV programming would often start with Air Force fighter jet footage set to “The Pilot’s Prayer” by John Gillespie Magee
With no election drama, Egypt's leader enjoys uncertain Christian support
With no election drama, Egypt's leader enjoys uncertain Christian supportALLEN: In what’s likely to be the least dramatic election in recent memory, some 65 million Egyptians, roughly ten percent of them Christians, will begin heading to the polls today to determine whether President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, the former army general who came to power after ousting a Muslim Brotherhood-led government in 2013, will get another term.
Fatalism and free will: How Good Friday changed everything
Fatalism and Free Will: How Good Friday Changed Everything | Fr. Dwight LongeneckerLONGENECKER: I am sure some philosopher much brainier than me has worked this all out, but it occurs to me that before Good Friday the world was different. Yes, we use religious language and say, “Mankind was locked in sin” and “Jesus died to save us from our sins” but for many people these religious phrases are meaningless.
However, it occurred to me recently how there is a fresh angle on this. I think, before Good Friday, the world was locked into a cycle of blame. We were unhappy so we found someone else to blame. Its there from the beginning. “Adam, did you eat of the fruit I commanded you not to touch?”
However, it occurred to me recently how there is a fresh angle on this. I think, before Good Friday, the world was locked into a cycle of blame. We were unhappy so we found someone else to blame. Its there from the beginning. “Adam, did you eat of the fruit I commanded you not to touch?”
Former Michigan player Pete Burak marches away from ‘madness’ — and toward wholeness
Marching Away From ‘Madness’ and Toward WholenessBEATTIE: As a point guard in high school and college, Pete Burak grew accustomed to assisting his team. After a good high-school career, he made the roster at the University of Michigan in 2007 and then played for Franciscan University the following two seasons.
Burak, now back in Ann Arbor, assists Renewal Ministries with its young-adult apostolate, called i.d.9:16. The unusual name is taken from the group’s main emphasis of forming the identity of young-adult Catholics as “intentional disciples” in light of 1 Corinthians 9:16, where St. Paul expresses the necessity to preach the Gospel. The apostolate partners with parishes to form “intentional disciples” by providing a new vision, leadership formation and ongoing support.
Burak, now back in Ann Arbor, assists Renewal Ministries with its young-adult apostolate, called i.d.9:16. The unusual name is taken from the group’s main emphasis of forming the identity of young-adult Catholics as “intentional disciples” in light of 1 Corinthians 9:16, where St. Paul expresses the necessity to preach the Gospel. The apostolate partners with parishes to form “intentional disciples” by providing a new vision, leadership formation and ongoing support.
All roads lead to Rome, where potholes will destroy your tires
All Roads Lead to Rome, Where Potholes Will Destroy Your Tires - The New York Times: On a rainy Sunday morning, Cristiano Davoli stopped traffic and rushed into the middle of the street to save the day.
The 45-year-old comic book salesman, wearing a Patch Me logo across his chest, emptied a bag of asphalt into a deep and perilous pothole. He beat the pitch down with the back of a shovel. He pounded it with his boots.
“That’s called an emergency intervention,” said Mr. Davoli, a vigilante hero in the battle against the voracious potholes that have opened across the city.
The 45-year-old comic book salesman, wearing a Patch Me logo across his chest, emptied a bag of asphalt into a deep and perilous pothole. He beat the pitch down with the back of a shovel. He pounded it with his boots.
“That’s called an emergency intervention,” said Mr. Davoli, a vigilante hero in the battle against the voracious potholes that have opened across the city.
Passiontide chronology: Tuesday of Holy Week
Passiontide Chronology: Tuesday of Holy Week - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: It is Tuesday of Holy Week. Jesus likely arises early, as did all the ancients. Days both ended and started early, at dusk and dawn, prior to the advent of electric lighting. They leave Bethany and head back to Jerusalem. Perhaps a few converts can be made before the transcendent events of the Passion begin.
It is only a couple of miles, mostly downhill, to Jerusalem. As they come down the steep hill they see the fig tree Jesus had cursed the day before.
It is only a couple of miles, mostly downhill, to Jerusalem. As they come down the steep hill they see the fig tree Jesus had cursed the day before.
Monday, March 26, 2018
None of us lived in Jesus’ time — but we all have memories of Him
Holy Week nostalgia: I remember JesusHOOPES: I remember when Jesus struggled through all the events of Holy Week. I was there. At my parish.
None of us lived in Jesus’ time. We didn’t hear him preach. We didn’t see him pass through our towns. We didn’t invite him to eat in our homes.
But we all have memories of him. This is the beauty of the Catholic liturgy. The Eucharist makes Jesus truly present in our churches — body, blood, soul and divinity — but it is a silent presence. The liturgy, by engaging our sight, hearing, smell (incense!), and taste, makes our experience of his presence come to life.
It has filled my mind with memories of Jesus, from last year and from decades ago.
None of us lived in Jesus’ time. We didn’t hear him preach. We didn’t see him pass through our towns. We didn’t invite him to eat in our homes.
But we all have memories of him. This is the beauty of the Catholic liturgy. The Eucharist makes Jesus truly present in our churches — body, blood, soul and divinity — but it is a silent presence. The liturgy, by engaging our sight, hearing, smell (incense!), and taste, makes our experience of his presence come to life.
It has filled my mind with memories of Jesus, from last year and from decades ago.
Pope punishes nine Ukrainian monks for unauthorized exorcisms and following a ‘prophetess’
Pope Defrocks Nine Monks Over Exorcisms | The Daily Caller: Pope Francis approved the defrocking of nine Ukrainian monks for performing unauthorized exorcisms and following the commands of a proclaimed “prophetess.”
The Ukrainian Greek-Catholic Church (UGCC) announced the removal of the monks on Tuesday, saying that according to the irreversible decree that Francis approved Feb. 9, the nine affected monks were thereby stripped of the rights and duties accorded to them by monastic vows, forbidden from dressing as monks or remaining in the monastery, and barred from performing any religious duties outside of the monastery.
The Ukrainian Greek-Catholic Church (UGCC) announced the removal of the monks on Tuesday, saying that according to the irreversible decree that Francis approved Feb. 9, the nine affected monks were thereby stripped of the rights and duties accorded to them by monastic vows, forbidden from dressing as monks or remaining in the monastery, and barred from performing any religious duties outside of the monastery.
A criminal companion for Holy Week
A Criminal Companion for Holy Week | God-Haunted LunaticBECKER: Red vestments, a “pre-Gospel” during the processional, the blessing of palm branches, and a dramatic reading of the entire Passion story. This year, it’ll be Mark’s version, which includes an account of the insults our crucified Lord endured and this telling detail: “Those who were crucified with him also kept abusing him.”
Mark is referring here to the two rebel convicts that were executed on Good Friday, but this is in contrast with St. Luke’s description of a “good thief” who did the exact opposite. “We have been condemned justly,” he tells his unrepentant counterpart, “but this man has done nothing criminal.” Apparently, the good thief had a change of heart as he hung there so close to our dying Savoir, and he gasps an implicit plea for mercy...
Mark is referring here to the two rebel convicts that were executed on Good Friday, but this is in contrast with St. Luke’s description of a “good thief” who did the exact opposite. “We have been condemned justly,” he tells his unrepentant counterpart, “but this man has done nothing criminal.” Apparently, the good thief had a change of heart as he hung there so close to our dying Savoir, and he gasps an implicit plea for mercy...
Monday in Holy Week: ‘Are we there yet?’
WDTPRS – Monday in Holy Week: “Are we there yet?” | Fr. Z's BlogZUHLSDORF: Today’s prayer was in the 1962 Missale Romanum and its predecessors. It was in the ancient Gregorian Sacramentary in both the Hadrianum and Paduense manuscripts as well as in the Tridentinum. However, the used to read: Da, quaesumus, omnipotens Deus: ut, qui in tot adversis ex nostra infirmitate deficimus; intercedente unigeniti Filii tui passione respiremus.
In their ineffable wisdom The Redactors of the Novus Ordo excised the reference to the obstacles we face because of our fallen nature and the pressures of unrestrained appetites and habits.
In their ineffable wisdom The Redactors of the Novus Ordo excised the reference to the obstacles we face because of our fallen nature and the pressures of unrestrained appetites and habits.
Arnaud Beltrame, the heroic French gendarme, offered a witness of a life lived for others
Archbishop Chaput’s Weekly Column: A Lesson for Holy Week – Archdiocese of PhiladelphiaCHAPUT: These few remaining days before Easter are the most sacred time of every year. I began writing this column to explain what the word “holy” in Holy Week means. But actions often speak and teach more loudly than words. On Friday, March 23, an Islamist gunman in southern France attacked a supermarket. A jihadist loyal to ISIS, he murdered a worker and customer, and wounded many others. In the subsequent standoff with police, a gendarme lieutenant-colonel – Arnaud Beltrame – exchanged himself for a female hostage. Several hours later, the gunman shot Beltrame in the throat and was then cut down himself by police gunfire. Beltrame died early Saturday morning in a Carcassone hospital. And therein lies a story.
Sacrifice in France: ‘Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life’
Sacrifice in France: 'Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life ... ' — GetReligionMATTINGLY: What did you learn, over the weekend, in the global coverage of the sacrificial death of Lt. Col. Arnaud Beltrame?
Let's say that you saw the main CNN.com report, which led with the fact that the 45-year-old Beltrame died up wounds he suffered after volunteering to swap places with a female hostage during a self-proclaimed ISIS supporter's attack on a supermarket in southern France.
French President Emmanuel Macron said that by "giving his life to end the murderous escapade of a jihadist terrorist, he died a hero."
What other crucial information did CNN producers include to help news consumers understand Beltrame and the nature of his sacrifice? We are, of course, looking for a faith angle.
Let's say that you saw the main CNN.com report, which led with the fact that the 45-year-old Beltrame died up wounds he suffered after volunteering to swap places with a female hostage during a self-proclaimed ISIS supporter's attack on a supermarket in southern France.
French President Emmanuel Macron said that by "giving his life to end the murderous escapade of a jihadist terrorist, he died a hero."
What other crucial information did CNN producers include to help news consumers understand Beltrame and the nature of his sacrifice? We are, of course, looking for a faith angle.
Walking with the Lord on Monday of Holy Week
Passiontide Chronology: Walking with the Lord on Monday of Holy Week - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: According to Matthew 21:10-17, Mark 11:15-17, and Luke 19:45-46, Jesus returns to Jerusalem today. Seeing shameful practices in the Temple area, He cleanses it. The Gospels also recount His weeping over Jerusalem and His cursing of the fig tree. Matthew and Mark relate that He returned to Bethany that night. The Scriptures record that Jesus went to Bethany on the Sunday evening after His triumphal entrance into Jerusalem...
Here are the plenary indulgences you can get during Holy Week
Here are the Plenary Indulgences Available During Holy WeekPRONECHEN: The plenary indulgences that we can receive on every day of Holy Week actually are of two kinds. Certain ones are specific to Holy Week itself. Certain ones we can actually gain anytime.
They’re listed in the Norms and Grants in the official Manual of Indulgences, fourth edition (1999), the latest and most up-to-date edition of the Manual, or Enchiridion Indulgentiarum, the one that replaces all others.
First, let’s look at the plenary indulgences specific to Holy Week. Next, we’ll look at those also available during Holy Week plus any time of the year. Then we’ll review the basic mandatory conditions that must be fulfilled for any plenary indulgence. Then we’ll check on “extras.”
They’re listed in the Norms and Grants in the official Manual of Indulgences, fourth edition (1999), the latest and most up-to-date edition of the Manual, or Enchiridion Indulgentiarum, the one that replaces all others.
First, let’s look at the plenary indulgences specific to Holy Week. Next, we’ll look at those also available during Holy Week plus any time of the year. Then we’ll review the basic mandatory conditions that must be fulfilled for any plenary indulgence. Then we’ll check on “extras.”
The killing of the American white male
The Killing of the American White Male - The Imaginative ConservativeLONGENECKER: Not long ago I was traveling back from a speaking engagement when I pulled into a Waffle House for breakfast. Waffle House is usually populated by working-class men at that time of morning, and this day was no exception. The exception was that I was joined at the counter by a well dressed, middle-aged white woman. Somehow we got involved in a conversation about how unhealthy my breakfast was.
Meet the saints of this year’s Holy Week
The Saints of Holy Week – Catholic World ReportONEEL: During Holy Week, we tend to forget the saints that may be on the calendar. This is especially true months such as March, which has very few memorials on the universal calendar to begin with.
Time spent looking through the ranks of saints whose feasts fall on those days, however, reveals not only several inspiring stories, but a fruitful accompaniment as we make our way toward Easter.
To begin with is one of the Church’s greatest solemnities, the Feast of the Annunciation, on March 25th. This is the day when Christians around the world commemorate the Blessed Virgin’s Mary’s visitation by the archangel Gabriel. At that time, Gabriel hailed her as “full of grace,” and announced to her the good news that she would bear the long-awaited Messiah. Our Lady’s fiat, her “yes” – given when she replied, “Be it done unto me according to your word” – is one of history’s most important moments.
Time spent looking through the ranks of saints whose feasts fall on those days, however, reveals not only several inspiring stories, but a fruitful accompaniment as we make our way toward Easter.
To begin with is one of the Church’s greatest solemnities, the Feast of the Annunciation, on March 25th. This is the day when Christians around the world commemorate the Blessed Virgin’s Mary’s visitation by the archangel Gabriel. At that time, Gabriel hailed her as “full of grace,” and announced to her the good news that she would bear the long-awaited Messiah. Our Lady’s fiat, her “yes” – given when she replied, “Be it done unto me according to your word” – is one of history’s most important moments.
Where did the millions of palms on Palm Sunday come from?
This Palm Sunday, where will the millions of palms come from?: With the arrival of Palm Sunday, Catholics across the globe will soon be handed leaves as they walk into church. Some might fold them into elaborate little crosses. Kids will poke each other with them. But it's safe to say most won't know where they came from.
The feast commemorates Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem the week before his passion and crucifixion. The Gospels attest that as Jesus entered the city, crowds lay down palm branches and cloaks as he rode into Jerusalem on a donkey.
The feast commemorates Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem the week before his passion and crucifixion. The Gospels attest that as Jesus entered the city, crowds lay down palm branches and cloaks as he rode into Jerusalem on a donkey.
Pope praises French policeman who gave his life to save hostage
Pope praises French policeman who gave his life to save hostage | CatholicHerald.co.uk: Pope Francis joined leaders praising a French police officer who “gave his life out a desire to protect people” during a terrorist attack.
Lt. Col. Arnaud Beltrame, 44, had convinced the gunman, identified as Redouane Lakdim, to allow him to take the place of a woman Lakdim was holding hostage on March 23 in a grocery store in Trebes, a small town in southern France.
Lakdim had already killed the passenger in a car he had hijacked in the nearby town of Carcassonne and had shot at a group of police who were jogging near their barracks, injuring one of the officers. He then drove to the grocery store and reportedly entered shouting that he was part of the Islamic State group. Lakdim killed the store’s butcher and a shopper.
Lt. Col. Arnaud Beltrame, 44, had convinced the gunman, identified as Redouane Lakdim, to allow him to take the place of a woman Lakdim was holding hostage on March 23 in a grocery store in Trebes, a small town in southern France.
Lakdim had already killed the passenger in a car he had hijacked in the nearby town of Carcassonne and had shot at a group of police who were jogging near their barracks, injuring one of the officers. He then drove to the grocery store and reportedly entered shouting that he was part of the Islamic State group. Lakdim killed the store’s butcher and a shopper.
Sunday, March 25, 2018
5 ways to make sure your Holy Week isn't a Holy Weak
5 Ways to Make Sure Your Holy Week Isn’t a Holy WeakFENELON: Have you done everything you had intended to do this Lent? Did you strive heroically? Did you keep all your resolutions? Did you spiritually grow by leaps and bounds?
If you did, then you can stop reading now. If you didn’t, then read on.
While there are some of us who can faithfully keep their Lenten promises, there are many of us (yours truly included) who mean well but can’t seem to stay the course consistently throughout. That doesn’t make us bad Catholics; it makes us human Catholics. Sadly, our humanness can foil even the best of plans and derail the firmest of intentions. Thankfully, we have a Merciful Savior who intrinsically understands the human condition.
If you did, then you can stop reading now. If you didn’t, then read on.
While there are some of us who can faithfully keep their Lenten promises, there are many of us (yours truly included) who mean well but can’t seem to stay the course consistently throughout. That doesn’t make us bad Catholics; it makes us human Catholics. Sadly, our humanness can foil even the best of plans and derail the firmest of intentions. Thankfully, we have a Merciful Savior who intrinsically understands the human condition.
The most dangerous things you can see in museums
The Most Dangerous Things You Can See in Museums - Atlas Obscura: There are a lot of kinds of danger. Some threats are loud and obvious, others are covert and subtle. Some are immediate, others take months, years, or centuries to develop. We got some of each kind when Atlas Obscura contacted museums that know danger—places dedicated to weapons, espionage, natural history, and disease—and asked: What’s the most dangerous thing in your collection?
101 dishes that changed America (#1 through #40 are indisputable, but it’s hit-and-miss after #41)...
Most Important Dishes in the US: History of Food That Changed America - Thrillist: Most restaurant dishes are bound to be forgotten. Delicious, sure, but still consumed in a fleeting moment of hunger and then lost in the parade of unremarkable meals to follow. Sometimes a meal is memorable enough that you crave it long after the plates are cleared. But it's the rare dish that truly changes the way Americans eat for generations to come.
If we want God back in our public life, we have to restore a ‘contemplative mood’
The Contemplative Mood: Restoring God to Public Life - The Imaginative Conservative: In the year 1979, June 2, thousands and thousands of Poles, standing on what was then called The Square of Victory (presently The Square of Joseph Piłsudski), sang publicly—right under the vigilant eyes of the Communist police, secret police and its informers—an old song “We want God” (the song is a prayer to Mother Mary, asking her to help keep God in Polish families, books, schools and “the dreams of our children”); there were literally thousands, probably hundreds thousands of them. They were the “simple folk,” the “average men,” physical workers with little education—but probably some of them the sons and daughters (and all of them heirs) of those who in 1956 went out on the streets of Poznan and dared to tell (with actions speaking louder than words) the “people’s” regime that it is not the people’s (they were thwarted, and fifty-seven of them were killed by the guns professedly amassed in our land to protect the working class), and this crowd knew what it wanted; and it found courage to say it aloud: Those people did not sing for bread, money, democracy, free parliament, free press, free schools. They sang for God.
To those with ears to hear, God is perfectly consistent
To Those With Ears to Hear, God is Perfectly ConsistentRUTLER: Ralph Waldo Emerson had moments more perceptive than his vague religiosity: “A foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of little minds, adored by little statesmen and philosophers and divines.” He spoke not of consistency itself, but of a “foolish” consistency. As True God and True Man, Christ was perfectly consistent, but from the platform of a fallen world, that consistency could seem inconsistent.
Consider how reluctant he was to let his divinity be known. He spoke of it cryptically in the synagogue at Nazareth, but insinuated enough to enrage his neighbors. Then he went into hiding. When he healed the leprous and blind, he ordered them sternly to tell no one. When he cured the paralytic at the Siloam Pool, he slipped into the shadows of the Temple like a fugitive. And he sternly ordered Peter and James and John not to reveal what they had seen on the mountain.
Consider how reluctant he was to let his divinity be known. He spoke of it cryptically in the synagogue at Nazareth, but insinuated enough to enrage his neighbors. Then he went into hiding. When he healed the leprous and blind, he ordered them sternly to tell no one. When he cured the paralytic at the Siloam Pool, he slipped into the shadows of the Temple like a fugitive. And he sternly ordered Peter and James and John not to reveal what they had seen on the mountain.
This bone is the only skeletal evidence for crucifixion in the ancient world
This Bone Is The Only Skeletal Evidence For Crucifixion In The Ancient World: The Romans practiced crucifixion - literally, "fixed to a cross" - for nearly a millennium. It was a public, painful, and slow form of execution, and used as a way to deter future crimes and humiliate the dying person. Since it was done to thousands of people and involved nails, you'd probably assume we have skeletal evidence of crucifixion. But there's only one, single bony example of Roman crucifixion, and even that is still heavily debated by experts.
Don’t be afraid to ‘see what the end shall be’
See What the End Shall Be – Palm Sunday - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: The Passion, which we read in the Palm Sunday liturgy, is too long to comment on in detail, so we will only examine a portion of it here. It may be of some value to examine the problems associated with the more moderate range of personalities involved. The usual villains are unambiguously wicked and display their sinfulness openly, but there are others involved whose struggles and neglectfulness are more subtle, yet no less real. It is in examining these figures that we can learn a great deal about ourselves, who, though we may not openly shout, “Crucify him,” are often not as unambiguously holy and heroic as Jesus’ persecutors are wicked and bold.
Why does the Gospel of Mark use secret identities? And who was the young man who ran away naked?
Secret Identities in the Gospel of Mark! (And More! Live stream)AKIN: Why does the Gospel of Mark contain references to people whose identities are mysteriously concealed? Why does Jesus give his disciples unusual commands that let people have plausible deniability? What do we know about the people involved? Also, who was the young man who ran away naked? It probably wasn’t Mark! How to answer people who say the Gospels were written far too many years after Jesus to be reliable? If the earth is 6000 years old, how can we justify dinosaurs? Did Jesus mean it literally when he advised the disciples to buy swords? Can we use weapons in self-defense? Why do Catholics allow baptism by pouring when some other Christians insist on immersion?
Pope Francis on Palm Sunday: ‘If the whole world keeps quiet and loses its joy, will you cry out?’
Pope’s Palm Sunday Homily – ZENIT – English: “Jesus enters Jerusalem. The liturgy invites us to share in the joy and celebration of the people who cry out in praise of their Lord; a joy that will fade and leaves a bitter and sorrowful taste by the end of the account of the Passion. This celebration seems to combine stories of joy and suffering, mistakes and successes, which are part of our daily lives as disciples. It somehow expresses the contradictory feelings that we too, the men and women of today, experience: the capacity for great love… but also for great hatred; the capacity for courageous self-sacrifice, but also the ability to “wash our hands” at the right moment; the capacity for loyalty, but also for great abandonment and betrayal.
Saturday, March 24, 2018
CNN's ‘Pope’ series could have been so much better
CNN's ‘Pope’ Series Could Have Been So Much BetterSCHIFFER: Power! Secrets! Change! SHOCK!!! To listen to CNN tell you about the papacy, you'd think that the Catholic Church was always on the edge of cataclysm.
According to the writers of CNN's new six-part series Pope: The Most Powerful Man in History, the institution founded by Christ to point the way to heaven is weighed down by power hungry popes and bishops, weakened by internal disputes, and confused about just who is in charge. The writers reveal their perspective in the show's tagline: “Go inside the Vatican to reveal how popes have used their power to shape the course of world history.”
According to the writers of CNN's new six-part series Pope: The Most Powerful Man in History, the institution founded by Christ to point the way to heaven is weighed down by power hungry popes and bishops, weakened by internal disputes, and confused about just who is in charge. The writers reveal their perspective in the show's tagline: “Go inside the Vatican to reveal how popes have used their power to shape the course of world history.”
Of Mick Jagger, a weeping icon, and getting what we need
Of Mick Jagger, a Weeping Icon, and Getting What We NeedBECKER: I can’t be the only dad who brandishes the Rolling Stones from time to time as a corrective contrivance. When I hear, “That’s not fair!” or “Everybody else gets to,” I’m wont to quote Mick Jagger and the lads: “You can’t always get what you want,” I’ll say with a shrug, “but if you try sometimes, you might find you get what you need.”
That last bit I might even intone melodically. You can bet the kids love that.
Despite my intermittent and annoying fatherly adaptations, the 1969 song has become a family favorite – at least judged by the amount of sing-along I hear from the back seat when it comes on the radio.
That last bit I might even intone melodically. You can bet the kids love that.
Despite my intermittent and annoying fatherly adaptations, the 1969 song has become a family favorite – at least judged by the amount of sing-along I hear from the back seat when it comes on the radio.
Heroic French gendarme had returned to Catholic faith in 2016, recently made Camino pilgrimage
'He has fallen a hero': French gendarme who replaced hostages dies | World news | The Guardian: The French gendarme who was shot after he swapped places with several people being held by a terrorist gunman has died. The interior minister, Gérard Collomb, announced the death of Lt ColArnaud Beltrame shortly before 6am (French time) on Saturday. “We will never forget his heroism, his bravery, his sacrifice. With a heavy heart, I send the support of the entire country to his family, friends and colleagues of the gendarmerie of the Aude,” Collomb tweeted.
The mystery of the Roman ‘gate to hell’
The mystery of the Roman 'gate to hell' - CNN: Two thousand years ago, ancient tourists flocked to a Greco-Roman temple in Hierapolis, modern-day Turkey, situated on top of a cave once purported to be the gateway to the underworld.
They watched in awe as animals, from birds to bulls, dropped dead at its entrance. The cave, named the "Plutonium" after Pluto, god of the underworld, was thought to belch the "breath of death," killing all those in its reach, except the divinely immune priests who led the animals to sacrifice.
They watched in awe as animals, from birds to bulls, dropped dead at its entrance. The cave, named the "Plutonium" after Pluto, god of the underworld, was thought to belch the "breath of death," killing all those in its reach, except the divinely immune priests who led the animals to sacrifice.
Woman gets married in hospital hours before dying of cancer
Woman gets married in hospital hours before dying of cancer: The last words of Heather Mosher's life were spent telling her husband how much she loved him on their wedding day.
The breast cancer that had metastasized throughout her body was no match for her pure joy when she finished her vows and raised her arms in celebration during an impromptu wedding ceremony with husband David Mosher.
The breast cancer that had metastasized throughout her body was no match for her pure joy when she finished her vows and raised her arms in celebration during an impromptu wedding ceremony with husband David Mosher.
What only barely missing the Hall of Fame can teach us about Good Friday
What only barely missing the Hall of Fame can teach us about Good FridayMILLS: You can understand the feeling: The poor guy came so close, why not let him in? I was puttering around the web, reading up on baseball, and saw an article from a few years back on a superstar who hadn’t got into the Hall of Fame by the narrowest of margins. The Houston Astros’ Craig Biggio had gotten 74.8 percent of the vote when he needed 75 percent. Two more sportswriters vote for him, he’s in. “In cases like Craig Biggio’s, should the Hall of Fame round up?” ESPN asked its readers. A big majority of 69 percent said yes.
Youth at Vatican meeting say they want Church to be ‘honest’ — while muting a few unfashionable truths, perhaps
Youth say they want a Church that's transparent, up-to-date: At the end of a week-long meeting held at the Vatican, young people from around the world have urged the Church to be more authentic, modern and creative not only in the way it interacts with young people, but also in addressing current hot-button issues.
“We want to say, especially to the hierarchy of the Church, that they should be a transparent, welcoming, honest, inviting, communicative, accessible, joyful and interactive community,” the youth said in the final document for this week's pre-synod meeting in Rome.
“A credible Church,” they said, “is one which is not afraid to allow itself be seen as vulnerable.”
“We want to say, especially to the hierarchy of the Church, that they should be a transparent, welcoming, honest, inviting, communicative, accessible, joyful and interactive community,” the youth said in the final document for this week's pre-synod meeting in Rome.
“A credible Church,” they said, “is one which is not afraid to allow itself be seen as vulnerable.”
‘Christianity as default is gone’: The rise of a non-Christian Europe
'Christianity as default is gone': the rise of a non-Christian Europe | World news | The Guardian: Europe’s march towards a post-Christian society has been starkly illustrated by research showing a majority of young people in a dozen countries do not follow a religion.
The survey of 16- to 29-year-olds found the Czech Republic is the least religious country in Europe, with 91% of that age group saying they have no religious affiliation. Between 70% and 80% of young adults in Estonia, Sweden and the Netherlands also categorise themselves as non-religious.
The most religious country is Poland, where 17% of young adults define themselves as non-religious, followed by Lithuania with 25%.
The survey of 16- to 29-year-olds found the Czech Republic is the least religious country in Europe, with 91% of that age group saying they have no religious affiliation. Between 70% and 80% of young adults in Estonia, Sweden and the Netherlands also categorise themselves as non-religious.
The most religious country is Poland, where 17% of young adults define themselves as non-religious, followed by Lithuania with 25%.
The scary truth about young Europeans and the Church
The scary truth about young Europeans and the Church | CatholicHerald.co.uk: In his 2003 exhortation Ecclesia in Europa, Pope John Paul II addressed at length the “de-Christianisation of vast areas of the European continent”. Citing Christ’s query as to whether, upon his return, he would find faith left on earth (Luke 18:8), the Polish saint asked: “Will he find faith in our countries, in this Europe of ancient Christian tradition? This is an open question which clearly reveals the depth and the drama of one of the most serious challenges which our churches are called to face.”
A place of quiet solitude in the Arizona desert
Quiet Solitude in the Arizona Desert | TOM PERNAPERNA: This past Tuesday, I led a group of 12 parishioners on a one-day pilgrimage to Our Lady of Solitude Monastery located in Tonapah, Arizona. The monastery was built and is cared for by the Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration (PCPA), originally part of Mother Angelica’s Nuns in Hanceville Alabama. Along with this monastery, there are other PCPA monasteries in the USA and around the world.
The pilgrimage was sponsored by the Porta Fidei Adult Faith Formation Program, which I oversee at the parish of Saint Mary Magdalene. Taking one day pilgrimages had been a goal of mine going back to late 2015. I was finally able to fulfill this goal this year and allow some of our parishioners to take time away from the everyday busyness of life. On March 6, we also visited San Xavier del Bac in Tucson, Arizona, but due to a conflict, I was not able to attend personally, so I asked parishioners to lead this particular pilgrimage for me.
The pilgrimage was sponsored by the Porta Fidei Adult Faith Formation Program, which I oversee at the parish of Saint Mary Magdalene. Taking one day pilgrimages had been a goal of mine going back to late 2015. I was finally able to fulfill this goal this year and allow some of our parishioners to take time away from the everyday busyness of life. On March 6, we also visited San Xavier del Bac in Tucson, Arizona, but due to a conflict, I was not able to attend personally, so I asked parishioners to lead this particular pilgrimage for me.
‘Christ was my Lord, and I had to follow him’ — The conversion story of Peter Kreeft
"Christ was my Lord, and I had to follow him wherever he led me." - Peter Kreeft - The Coming Home Network: In our latest Signposts video short, philosopher and popular Christian author Dr. Peter Kreeft shares a portion of his journey from Reformed Calvinism to the Catholic Church. Raised in the Reformed Church of America, when Dr. Kreeft first encountered the works of St. Thomas Aquinas, he thought he was reading the writings of a fellow Calvinist! However, the more he began to study Church history, especially the writings of the early Christian Fathers, the more he realized, reluctantly at first, that his lifelong quest for truth was leading him to the Catholic Church.
10 Hollywood stars who are also Catholic
10 Hollywood stars who are also Catholic: While Jim Caviezel is possibly the most outspoken actor on the importance of his faith, here are a few other Hollywood giants who have God at the center of their lives. While some of them experienced difficulties in their life, their faith has always seen them through. Here’s a look at what they have openly shared about the importance of their Catholic faith and its impact on both their careers and their family lives.
Dioceses edit photo of priest in cassock to make it look like he’s wearing jeans
Dioceses edit photo of priest in cassock to make it look like he’s wearing jeans | CatholicHerald.co.uk: Three French dioceses have apparently altered an image of a priest in a cassock to make it look as if he is wearing jeans and a shirt.
Four dioceses in the south of the country, Perpignan, Montpellier, Nimes and Carcassonne made a video to solicit donations for an annual collection. The video featured a priest wearing a cassock meeting young people and taking a selfie with them.
Four dioceses in the south of the country, Perpignan, Montpellier, Nimes and Carcassonne made a video to solicit donations for an annual collection. The video featured a priest wearing a cassock meeting young people and taking a selfie with them.
What did St. John the Baptist think of Jesus?
Mark Shea: The Doubt of John the BaptistSHEA: The best definition of a Gospel I have ever heard is “a passion narrative with a long introduction”.
That is to say, a quarter of the ink spilt in every Gospel concerns a 72-hour period in the life of Jesus of Nazareth: from Holy Thursday to Easter.
A couple of Gospels take us a bit further—to a couple of other resurrection appearances, or to the Ascension. But the main thing is the story of the passion and the resurrection. The other three quarters of the Gospels are all prefatory remarks: things Jesus said and did that, in one way or other, illustrate the meaning and effects of the main event: His passion, death, and resurrection.
So the Sermon on the Mount, for instance, proclaims the new law of the new Moses who will enable us to carry that law out by means of the grace of the Holy Spirit poured out in the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus.
That is to say, a quarter of the ink spilt in every Gospel concerns a 72-hour period in the life of Jesus of Nazareth: from Holy Thursday to Easter.
A couple of Gospels take us a bit further—to a couple of other resurrection appearances, or to the Ascension. But the main thing is the story of the passion and the resurrection. The other three quarters of the Gospels are all prefatory remarks: things Jesus said and did that, in one way or other, illustrate the meaning and effects of the main event: His passion, death, and resurrection.
So the Sermon on the Mount, for instance, proclaims the new law of the new Moses who will enable us to carry that law out by means of the grace of the Holy Spirit poured out in the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus.
Friday, March 23, 2018
Papal Foundation cancels this year’s traditional audience with pope after hospital bailout controversy
Francis X. Rocca on Twitter: "Stewards of St. Peter won’t have their traditional audience with the Pope on next month’s pilgrimage to Rome. The audience has been postponed as the Papal Foundation rethinks its governance & “relationship to the Holy See” after a controversial $25-million Vatican grant request.… https://t.co/Pbc58cpfKd": Stewards of St. Peter won’t have their traditional audience with the Pope on next month’s pilgrimage to Rome. The audience has been postponed as the Papal Foundation rethinks its governance & “relationship to the Holy See” after a controversial $25-million Vatican grant request.
Cardinal Dolan in the Wall Street Journal: ‘The Democrats have abandoned Catholics’ (WSJ paywall)
The Democrats Abandon Catholics - WSJ: A couple of events over the past few weeks brought to mind two towering people who had a tremendous effect on the Archdiocese of New York and the U.S. more broadly. Their witness is worth remembering, especially in this political moment.
China tightens grip on religion in bureaucratic overhaul
China tightens grip on religion in bureaucratic overhaul - ucanews.com: China's ruling Communist Party has further stepped up control over all religions, dissolving its longstanding State Administration for Religious Affairs bureau and handing its functions to the party's feared United Front Work Department (UFWD).
The move was announced on the closing day of the annual "two meetings" in Beijing and comes as part of a comprehensive bureaucratic overhaul of the entire Chinese bureaucracy and only seven weeks after stricter new rules on religion were introduced on Feb. 1.
The official line from the state-run Xinhua News Agency ran like this:
"The CPC [Communist Party of China] exercises overall leadership over all areas of endeavor in the country, and the reform is meant to strengthen the Party's leadership in all areas and improve the structure of the Party organization, according to the plan.
The move was announced on the closing day of the annual "two meetings" in Beijing and comes as part of a comprehensive bureaucratic overhaul of the entire Chinese bureaucracy and only seven weeks after stricter new rules on religion were introduced on Feb. 1.
The official line from the state-run Xinhua News Agency ran like this:
"The CPC [Communist Party of China] exercises overall leadership over all areas of endeavor in the country, and the reform is meant to strengthen the Party's leadership in all areas and improve the structure of the Party organization, according to the plan.
Is your spiritual life like a sailboat or a motorboat?
Is Your Spiritual Life Like a Sailboat or a Motorboat? - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: When I was about 10 years old I took some sailing lessons and then did so again when I was in my early 30s. Sailing involves a kind of romancing of the wind, wherein one observes it and then adapts to it, wooing it, learning its moves, its vicissitudes, its often subtle and changing signs.
Oh, for the great times when the wind was with us! Catching the wind, the boat would speed along making a slick sound in the water. Oh, too, for those daring and thrilling times when the spinnaker was put out. The boat would almost strain as the proud winds filled her arcing sail.
Oh, for the great times when the wind was with us! Catching the wind, the boat would speed along making a slick sound in the water. Oh, too, for those daring and thrilling times when the spinnaker was put out. The boat would almost strain as the proud winds filled her arcing sail.
Thursday, March 22, 2018
Police raid Saginaw bishop’s home and chancery amid sex abuse investigation
Police Search Michigan Bishop’s Home and Chancery Amid Sex Abuse Investigation: Saginaw police raided the home of Bishop Joseph Cistone, as well as the diocesan chancery and its cathedral rectory Thursday, as part of an ongoing investigation into sex abuse allegations against several diocesan priests.
CNA has reached out to the Diocese of Saginaw for comment but did not receive a response by press time.
Police told local media that they could not reveal what they were searching for or taking from the properties. However, authorities did say that the search warrants were due to a lack of cooperation on the part of the diocese related to an ongoing clerical sex abuse investigation.
“Contrary to the statements of the diocese and the bishop that they would fully cooperate with law enforcement, they did not,” Saginaw County Assistant Prosecutor Mark Gaertner told local news source Michigan Live. “Therefore it was necessary for law enforcement to use other investigative tools, including search warrants.”
CNA has reached out to the Diocese of Saginaw for comment but did not receive a response by press time.
Police told local media that they could not reveal what they were searching for or taking from the properties. However, authorities did say that the search warrants were due to a lack of cooperation on the part of the diocese related to an ongoing clerical sex abuse investigation.
“Contrary to the statements of the diocese and the bishop that they would fully cooperate with law enforcement, they did not,” Saginaw County Assistant Prosecutor Mark Gaertner told local news source Michigan Live. “Therefore it was necessary for law enforcement to use other investigative tools, including search warrants.”
The principle of the sexual revolution is a lie, and it has borne terrible fruit
No Way Out - The Catholic ThingESOLEN: I’m meditating on the most recent debacle at my old place of work, Providence College. A young man has been harassed (crowds outside of his room several nights in a row, so that he couldn’t brush his teeth in peace; campus-wide condemnation; a demonstration approved by the school’s authorities) and threatened with anal rape (in an obscene cartoon on his bathroom mirror, which met with a shrug from the authorities), for affirming on a bulletin board the truth and beauty of marriage according to nature, the Church, and Jesus Christ. The administration, far from protecting him, has given aid and comfort to the wolves.
5 takeaways from Msgr. Viganò’s resignation
Five Takeaways from Msgr. Vigano’s ResignationPENTIN: News today of Msgr. Dario Edoardo Viganò's resignation as prefect of the Vatican’s Secretariat for Communication is remarkable in many respects.
First of all, it’s extremely rare for a senior Vatican official in modern times, and especially during this pontificate, to submit his resignation or hold himself accountable concerning a public scandal or controversy for which he is blamed.
One need only think of a few recent examples where this hasn’t happened: those responsible for the appointment of pro-abortion or pro-contraception academics to the Pontifical Academy for Life, the official responsible for protocol who gave a papal knighthood to a militant Dutch pro-abortion politician, or the Vatican priest caught having homosexual drug-fueled parties at the Holy Office
First of all, it’s extremely rare for a senior Vatican official in modern times, and especially during this pontificate, to submit his resignation or hold himself accountable concerning a public scandal or controversy for which he is blamed.
One need only think of a few recent examples where this hasn’t happened: those responsible for the appointment of pro-abortion or pro-contraception academics to the Pontifical Academy for Life, the official responsible for protocol who gave a papal knighthood to a militant Dutch pro-abortion politician, or the Vatican priest caught having homosexual drug-fueled parties at the Holy Office
Fr. Stan Piwowar, a priest for 57 years — and now a priest forever
RIP Fr. Stan Piwowar, a priest forever – SIMCHA FISHERFISHER: After 57 years as a priest, Fr. Stan Piwowar has died. He was 92 years old.
He confirmed me, officiated at our wedding, baptized two of our children, and served his parish and his savior faithfully, day in and day out, as the pastor of St. Joseph’s parish in Claremont, NH from 1965 to 2008.
I never met someone who cared less what people thought of him. In the summer (before he had air conditioning installed installed) he could celebrate Mass wearing his lightest vestments and a white terrycloth sweatband around his head.
He confirmed me, officiated at our wedding, baptized two of our children, and served his parish and his savior faithfully, day in and day out, as the pastor of St. Joseph’s parish in Claremont, NH from 1965 to 2008.
I never met someone who cared less what people thought of him. In the summer (before he had air conditioning installed installed) he could celebrate Mass wearing his lightest vestments and a white terrycloth sweatband around his head.
A review of ‘Paul, Apostle of Christ’
SDG Reviews ‘Paul, Apostle of Christ’GREYDANUS: “I expected more,” muses Mauritius, the Roman prefect of the Mamertine Prison, critically eying the frail, bald-headed, bewhiskered prisoner standing unsteadily before him.
Perhaps Mauritius is looking for some sign of the charisma and commanding presence that would mark a powerful leader of an infamous cult blamed for burning half the city — or possibly something to warrant the rumors of the prisoner’s supernatural powers and otherworldly character.
Either way, Mauritius wouldn’t have been the first to be less than impressed by the unimposing figure cut by Paul of Tarsus. (Per 2 Corinthians 10:10, Paul seems to have had a rap for being less powerful in person than his mighty letters would suggest.)
The year is A.D. 67, about a dozen years into the notorious reign of Nero, widely deemed responsible for the Great Fire of Rome and said to have scapegoated Rome’s Christian community, not just for the fire, but for hatred of humanity.
Perhaps Mauritius is looking for some sign of the charisma and commanding presence that would mark a powerful leader of an infamous cult blamed for burning half the city — or possibly something to warrant the rumors of the prisoner’s supernatural powers and otherworldly character.
Either way, Mauritius wouldn’t have been the first to be less than impressed by the unimposing figure cut by Paul of Tarsus. (Per 2 Corinthians 10:10, Paul seems to have had a rap for being less powerful in person than his mighty letters would suggest.)
The year is A.D. 67, about a dozen years into the notorious reign of Nero, widely deemed responsible for the Great Fire of Rome and said to have scapegoated Rome’s Christian community, not just for the fire, but for hatred of humanity.
The ‘Lettergate’ debacle was unnecessary, but useful in bringing some tensions to the surface
'Lettergate' debacle unnecessary, but useful in surfacing tensionsALLEN: Now that “Lettergate,” the surreal affair regarding a letter from Pope emeritus Benedict XVI, has reached its denouement with the resignation of Monsignor Dario Viganò from the Vatican’s Secretariat for Communications, it seems time to draw some big-picture conclusions.
To recap, the affair pivots on a letter from Benedict in response to Viganò, who had asked the emeritus pope to comment on a new series of volumes on Pope Francis’s theology, published to coincide with the fifth anniversary of his election on March 13.
To recap, the affair pivots on a letter from Benedict in response to Viganò, who had asked the emeritus pope to comment on a new series of volumes on Pope Francis’s theology, published to coincide with the fifth anniversary of his election on March 13.
9 little-known facts about the crucifixion of Jesus
9 Little-Known Facts About The Crucifixion of Jesus – The Five Beasts: A valuable study appeared in the Journal of the American Medical Association in 1986 (Volume 256) entitled “On the Physical Death of Jesus”. The authors included a Pathologist, an expert in Medical Graphics from the Mayo Clinic, and an Evangelical minister. It begins with a historical analysis of crucifixion as a form of execution and moves to the physiology of Jesus’ suffering and death.
Dangerous liaisons and ‘loneliness studies’ — and an answer to both
Humanae Vitae, 50th Anniversary: Catholic Teaching on Social Justice | National ReviewLOPEZ: Humanae Vitae, the controversial letter on men and women and ethics, was issued by Pope Paul VI issued a half-century ago this summer. It has much to offer our #MeToo culture, which is inundated with such confusion about relationships and identity and power.
At a speech to the Center for Ethics and Culture at the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, Ind., yesterday, Mary Eberstadt, author of “The Prophetic Power of Humanae Vitae,” a new article in First Things, talked about the power play that not being honest about science and sociology in the wake of the sexual revolution has wreaked on lives and about the dangers it continues to invite.
At a speech to the Center for Ethics and Culture at the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, Ind., yesterday, Mary Eberstadt, author of “The Prophetic Power of Humanae Vitae,” a new article in First Things, talked about the power play that not being honest about science and sociology in the wake of the sexual revolution has wreaked on lives and about the dangers it continues to invite.
Signs of hope: Tuesday’s NIFLA oral arguments at the Supreme Court seemed to go well for our side
A WIN FOR LIFE: Supreme Court Justices Rip CA Law Forcing Pregnancy Centers To Advertise Abortion | Daily Wire: On Tuesday, the justices of the Supreme Court sounded as if they are ready to shred the California law that requires pregnancy centers to notify women that the state offers subsidies for abortion.
That law was adopted in California in 2015, and forced the pregnancy centers to post a prominent notice if they had "no licensed medical provider" available. If the centers were licensed, they were forced to notify clients that the state offers "free or low-cost" contraception, prenatal care and abortion.
That law was adopted in California in 2015, and forced the pregnancy centers to post a prominent notice if they had "no licensed medical provider" available. If the centers were licensed, they were forced to notify clients that the state offers "free or low-cost" contraception, prenatal care and abortion.
Pornography is an enemy of the sense of wonder and the sacred
Pornography and Education Part 2: Reopening Windows of Wonder - Newman Society JournalFITZPATRICK: My school was recently visited by two monks from the Benedictine Monastery in Norcia, Italy. After talking to our students joyfully about the monastic life, they told the faculty gravely that one of the main reasons they turn down their many applicants is the problem of pornography. They gave us their opinion that there is no one, no boy particularly, who has not been exposed to the innocence-shattering evil of pornography—and that it is a problem that keeps people from God and from education.
Pope’s apostolic exhortation on holiness should come out on April 2
Pope’s Apostolic Exhortation on Holiness Should Come Out on April 2 – ZENIT – English: The rumors of the forthcoming publication of a document of Pope Francis on holiness have been confirmed. In a press release on March 20, 2018, the French Tequi publishers announced its release for April 2, Easter Monday.
Even the pope needs a good laugh now and then...
CBS News on Twitter: Even the pope needs a good laugh now and then. Pope Francis stopped his sermon when his hat blew off Wednesday, letting out a giggle before starting back up. https://t.co/4BVIKHJnjj: Even the pope needs a good laugh now and then. Pope Francis stopped his sermon when his hat blew off Wednesday, letting out a giggle before starting back up.
When God drops the mic on you
When God Drops the Mic on You | Word On FireSCALIA: “Give her something difficult.”
That's an elderly nun’s advice to an inexperienced Benedictine abbess after a prideful and conniving younger nun has contributed to hardships being faced by the entire community in Rumer Godden's classic novel, In This House of Brede.
The abbess, taking her elder’s advice, gives the troublesome nun, Dame Veronica, a difficult translation in need of a quick turnover for a publisher. The nun is appalled at the idea. Her pretensions aside, she knows she is not studied enough, or stylist enough, to do justice to a translation of Rufinus. “It’s work for Dame Agnes,” she says, meaning, for the community’s first scholar—a woman the jealous younger nun has recently spited and treated abominably.
That's an elderly nun’s advice to an inexperienced Benedictine abbess after a prideful and conniving younger nun has contributed to hardships being faced by the entire community in Rumer Godden's classic novel, In This House of Brede.
The abbess, taking her elder’s advice, gives the troublesome nun, Dame Veronica, a difficult translation in need of a quick turnover for a publisher. The nun is appalled at the idea. Her pretensions aside, she knows she is not studied enough, or stylist enough, to do justice to a translation of Rufinus. “It’s work for Dame Agnes,” she says, meaning, for the community’s first scholar—a woman the jealous younger nun has recently spited and treated abominably.
Science is really a story, told around the campfire, or over a beer at a conference
Across the Universe: Science as Story – The Catholic AstronomerCONSOLMAGNO: The late Stephen Jay Gould, Harvard biologist and popular science writer, once described the roles of science and religion as “non-overlapping magisteria” – they should not be in conflict because they never come in contact. I could see his point; as cases from Galileo to Dawkins have shown, authority in one field rarely translates into authority in the other.
But as those same cases also demonstrate, science and religion do overlap all the time in at least one locus: in the human being, who chooses how to live in a world that has both science and religion. Indeed, the same is true of all the worlds each of us live in: our politics, school, favorite music, social background, sports teams, family. We all have our homes in each of those fields.
But as those same cases also demonstrate, science and religion do overlap all the time in at least one locus: in the human being, who chooses how to live in a world that has both science and religion. Indeed, the same is true of all the worlds each of us live in: our politics, school, favorite music, social background, sports teams, family. We all have our homes in each of those fields.
Your grumbling can greatly harm others
The Grumblings in the Wilderness Have Much to Teach Us (Lesson Four) - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: Grumbling affects more than the one who grumbles. Through it, infectious negativity is set loose. Even if only a small number grumble, it can still incite fear, negativity, and anger in others.
One of the sadder effects the grumblings in the desert was the heavy toll it took on Moses. The people nearly wore him out. At a particularly low moment, when the people were complaining about the quality of the food, Moses lamented to God...
One of the sadder effects the grumblings in the desert was the heavy toll it took on Moses. The people nearly wore him out. At a particularly low moment, when the people were complaining about the quality of the food, Moses lamented to God...
‘Dictator Pope’ author Henry Sire suspended from Order of Malta
‘Dictator Pope’ author Henry Sire suspended from Order of Malta | CatholicHerald.co.uk: The Order of Malta has suspended ‘Dictator Pope’ author Henry Sire for allegedly breaching its constitution.
The Catholic Herald understands that the Order notified Sire yesterday of his suspension, days after he was revealed to be the mysterious author.
Sire’s identity was confirmed on Monday when Regnery Publishing posted his name in an online description of the book. He had originally self-published the book under the penname Marcantonio Colonna, a commander at the Battle of Lepanto.
The Catholic Herald understands that the Order notified Sire yesterday of his suspension, days after he was revealed to be the mysterious author.
Sire’s identity was confirmed on Monday when Regnery Publishing posted his name in an online description of the book. He had originally self-published the book under the penname Marcantonio Colonna, a commander at the Battle of Lepanto.
Wednesday, March 21, 2018
Yes, the Vatican ‘Lettergate’ story is complicated. Kudos to the AP for getting the crucial details...
Yes, Vatican 'Lettergate' story is complicated: Kudos to AP for getting the crucial details — GetReligionMATTINGLY: Back when I was breaking into Godbeat work, one of the first pros that I met was the late George Cornell of the Associated Press. I interviewed him for my graduate project at the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign and then we stayed in touch.
How hard was it to be the AP's religion guy in that era? Basically, he told me, his job was to cover all the religion news on planet earth, other than the Vatican (which was its own beat).
How would you like that task? Of course, our own Richard Ostling knows all about that, since he worked for the Associated Press after his era at Time magazine. However, he had some timely assistance from pros like Bobby Ross, Jr.
How hard was it to be the AP's religion guy in that era? Basically, he told me, his job was to cover all the religion news on planet earth, other than the Vatican (which was its own beat).
How would you like that task? Of course, our own Richard Ostling knows all about that, since he worked for the Associated Press after his era at Time magazine. However, he had some timely assistance from pros like Bobby Ross, Jr.
Infamous operator of popular Catholic website facing charges of tax evasion
Infamous operator of popular Catholic website facing charges of tax evasion | KBAK: A man who years ago was the subject of an Eyewitness News investigation after allegations surfaced that he defrauded a host of Catholic charities is now facing federal tax evasion charges.
Years ago, Michael Galloway owned the popular "Catholic Online" website, as well as many of other Catholic-themed internet domains. His tax evasion case is before a jury this week at the federal courthouse in Fresno.
Years ago, Michael Galloway owned the popular "Catholic Online" website, as well as many of other Catholic-themed internet domains. His tax evasion case is before a jury this week at the federal courthouse in Fresno.
No, Stephen Hawking did not become a Christian after a blessing from Pope Francis...
FACT CHECK: Did Stephen Hawking Become a Christian After a Blessing From Pope Francis?: The renowned physicist Stephen Hawking died in March 2018 at the age of 76, prompting a wave of tributes from the world of science, as well as reflections on his inspirational life story. On 14 March 2018, the “Catholics Online” Facebook page posted a photograph of Hawking meeting Pope Francis alongside a fabricated claim...
A Holy Week deal between Rome and Beijing? Cardinal Zen says possibly ‘March 23 or 27’...
A Holy Week deal between Rome and Beijing? - ucanews.com: One of the biggest critics of a potential deal between Beijing and the Holy See on the appointment of bishops, Hong Kong-based Cardinal Joseph Zen Ze-kuin, believes that the landmark agreement could be signed as early as March 23.
In a lengthy blog post that attacked his growing list of critics, the retired prelate, 86, noted that such an agreement is rumored to be inked on "March 23 or 27." And while he claimed to remain unsure if a final agreement could be reached, he reiterated recent promises to respect any deals reached by Pope Francis and fall silent if it is completed.
In a lengthy blog post that attacked his growing list of critics, the retired prelate, 86, noted that such an agreement is rumored to be inked on "March 23 or 27." And while he claimed to remain unsure if a final agreement could be reached, he reiterated recent promises to respect any deals reached by Pope Francis and fall silent if it is completed.
Providence College bullies its faithful Catholic students
Providence College Bullies Its Faithful Students - Crisis MagazineESOLEN: Here is what happened.
The student, whom I will call Dominic, is a Resident Advisor for one of the dormitories. As such he is also an employee of the college, a fact which must be borne in mind, because it brings into play federal laws against the toleration or encouragement of, or participation in, a hostile work environment. Each RA at Providence College has access to a bulletin board in the dormitory, where they are encouraged to post materials of public interest, including the political. Some time ago, an RA used hers to promote the lesbian life, and received praise for it. So my friend Dominic decided to post something to promote the truth.
The student, whom I will call Dominic, is a Resident Advisor for one of the dormitories. As such he is also an employee of the college, a fact which must be borne in mind, because it brings into play federal laws against the toleration or encouragement of, or participation in, a hostile work environment. Each RA at Providence College has access to a bulletin board in the dormitory, where they are encouraged to post materials of public interest, including the political. Some time ago, an RA used hers to promote the lesbian life, and received praise for it. So my friend Dominic decided to post something to promote the truth.
The Church survives and thrives when her members do these 5 things
When and Why Does the Church Go Wrong? | Fr. Dwight LongeneckerLONGENECKER: I’ve been working on preparation for recording my twenty part history of the church podcast. For those of you who might listen, I’ve decided it is so important that it will be free on the blog, and through other outlets, and not just for Donor Subscribers.
The podcast series will be called Triumphs and Tragedies – a Short History of the Catholic Church. During the first session today it occurred to me why and when the church goes wrong. It goes wrong when, for a whole range of reasons she takes her eye off the ball and forgets what the main reason for existence really is.
The podcast series will be called Triumphs and Tragedies – a Short History of the Catholic Church. During the first session today it occurred to me why and when the church goes wrong. It goes wrong when, for a whole range of reasons she takes her eye off the ball and forgets what the main reason for existence really is.
Msgr. Dario Viganò, top Vatican communications officer, resigns after ‘Lettergate’ fiasco
Top Vatican Communications Officer Resigns After ‘Lettergate’ Fiasco: On Wednesday Pope Francis accepted the resignation of Msgr. Dario Edoardo Viganò as prefect of the Secretariat for Communication, in the wake of what has been dubbed by many as the “Lettergate” scandal, which has dominated Catholic media the past week.
The announcement was made in a March 21 statement from Vatican spokesman Greg Burke, who said Msgr. Lucio Adrián Ruiz, secretary of the Vatican communications office, will take charge until a new prefect is named.
In his letter submitting his resignation, which was dated March 19 and published March 21 alongside Francis’ response, Msgr. Viganò said that, in recent days, “many controversies have arisen regarding my work, which, beyond intentions, destabilizes the complex and great task of reform which you entrusted to me.”
The announcement was made in a March 21 statement from Vatican spokesman Greg Burke, who said Msgr. Lucio Adrián Ruiz, secretary of the Vatican communications office, will take charge until a new prefect is named.
In his letter submitting his resignation, which was dated March 19 and published March 21 alongside Francis’ response, Msgr. Viganò said that, in recent days, “many controversies have arisen regarding my work, which, beyond intentions, destabilizes the complex and great task of reform which you entrusted to me.”
Tuesday, March 20, 2018
What St. Joseph taught Jesus about suffering for others
What Joseph taught Jesus about suffering for others - Catholic DigestHOOPES: When my wife and I were planning our wedding 26 years ago, we were very devoted to Mother Teresa. In fact, we sent her a wedding invitation. We also included three quotes from her on our wedding program: One about family life, one about feminine virtues — and one citing St. Joseph about the way a husband is supposed to act. “Saint Joseph is the most wonderful example!” Mother Teresa said. “When he realized that Mary was with child, he only had to do one thing: To go to the head, to the priest and say, ‘My wife has a child, not mine.’
It was Benedict XVI who paved the way for Óscar Romero’s canonization
Benedict XVI paved way for Oscar Romero’s canonization: Though Oscar Romero, archbishop of San Salvador, was shot while he celebrated Mass and was a known advocate for the poor, some voices opposed considering him for canonization as a saint, fearing that he could be made a Marxist icon.
It was Benedict XVI who overruled those fears and paved the way for the upcoming canonization.
This was affirmed by the postulator of Romero’s cause, Archbishop Vincenzo Paglia, who spoke last week with Vatican Insider about the case.
It was Benedict XVI who overruled those fears and paved the way for the upcoming canonization.
This was affirmed by the postulator of Romero’s cause, Archbishop Vincenzo Paglia, who spoke last week with Vatican Insider about the case.
The New Covenant, the SSPX, the New American Bible, and more
The Mystery of the New Covenant (And More! Live Stream)AKIN: What is the “New Covenant” that we hear about every week in church?
Does the doctrine of original sin just make things more complicated? Should we not have it?
Is it sinful to attend a Mass at an SSPX chapel?
How to understand Paul’s statements regarding women’s head coverings and women teaching?
Does Jesus transforming water to wine symbolize the New Covenant replacing the Old?
Does the doctrine of original sin just make things more complicated? Should we not have it?
Is it sinful to attend a Mass at an SSPX chapel?
How to understand Paul’s statements regarding women’s head coverings and women teaching?
Does Jesus transforming water to wine symbolize the New Covenant replacing the Old?
Stephen Hawking, John Lennon and atheism’s fear of eternity
Stephen Hawking, John Lennon and Atheism’s Fear of EternityCLARK: In the recent book, God or Nothing, Robert Cardinal Sarah makes a comment that seems parenthetical to the rest of the work, but is nevertheless fascinating: “A Godless society, which considers any spiritual questions a dead letter, masks the emptiness of its materialism by killing time so as better to forget eternity.” While contemplating this statement, I thought about various comments I’d seen on the subject of eternity on atheist sites and in books.
Abortion is NOT a religious issue
Abortion Is NOT a Religious IssueSTAUDT: An article came out this last week on the complete absence of any pro-life candidates for the Democratic Party: “Abortion debate is over inside the Democratic Party.” The article features a Catholic candidate running in Pennsylvania, Conor Lamb, who describes his cliché personal opposition and public support for abortion
The New York Times visits a fading abbey — that plans to court spiritual-but-not-religious folks
New York Times visits a fading abbey -- that plans to court spiritual-but-not-religious folks — GetReligionMATTINGLY: Let's say that you are a reporter and you are going to write a feature story about an order of Catholic monastics.
If you were writing about an order that is growing – let's say the Dominican Sisters of St. Cecilia in Nashville – it would be very important for your piece to mention the larger context of this story. I am, of course, referring to the overall decline of Catholic monasticism and holy orders in the United States.
If you were writing about an order that is growing – let's say the Dominican Sisters of St. Cecilia in Nashville – it would be very important for your piece to mention the larger context of this story. I am, of course, referring to the overall decline of Catholic monasticism and holy orders in the United States.
How busy hands can alter your brain chemistry
How busy hands can alter our brain chemistry - CBS News: Are you the kind of person who actually likes washing dishes? How about folding laundry? Yardwork?
What all these have in common, of course, is they occupy our hands. And as it turns out, some researchers think that may be key to making our brains very happy.
"I made up this term called 'behaviorceuticals,' instead of pharmaceuticals, in the sense that when we move and when we engage in activities, we change the neurochemistry of our brain in ways that a drug can change the neurochemistry of our brain," said Kelly Lambert, a neuroscientist at the University of Richmond.
What all these have in common, of course, is they occupy our hands. And as it turns out, some researchers think that may be key to making our brains very happy.
"I made up this term called 'behaviorceuticals,' instead of pharmaceuticals, in the sense that when we move and when we engage in activities, we change the neurochemistry of our brain in ways that a drug can change the neurochemistry of our brain," said Kelly Lambert, a neuroscientist at the University of Richmond.
Are you a young person with tattoos? Pope Francis has a question for you...
Are You a Young Person with Tattoos? Pope Francis Has a Question for You | ChurchPOP: During a recent meeting Pope Francis had with a group of young people at the Vatican, the pontiff was asked a question about tattoos.
A young seminarian asked him how the pastors of the Church should respond to the fact that tattoos are so widespread and “that for some it is beautiful,” while others think it is something “difficult to understand.”
A young seminarian asked him how the pastors of the Church should respond to the fact that tattoos are so widespread and “that for some it is beautiful,” while others think it is something “difficult to understand.”
We don’t have to be thrilled by Christ’s teachings. We just have to follow them...
Planning Parenthood | Gina Loehr | First Things: I am not a fan of Natural Family Planning.
My husband and I have been using NFP—or more precisely, practicing a method of fertility awareness—since the day we were married eleven years ago. We have used NFP not because of the well-crafted lectures that convinced us of its ethical importance. We have not used this medically endorsed approach because its health benefits have proven true. Neither have we chosen to chart our countercultural course because of the legendary “honeymoon phase” that many NFP proponents have lauded in their testimonies. We have practiced NFP because we honor the teachings of th
My husband and I have been using NFP—or more precisely, practicing a method of fertility awareness—since the day we were married eleven years ago. We have used NFP not because of the well-crafted lectures that convinced us of its ethical importance. We have not used this medically endorsed approach because its health benefits have proven true. Neither have we chosen to chart our countercultural course because of the legendary “honeymoon phase” that many NFP proponents have lauded in their testimonies. We have practiced NFP because we honor the teachings of th
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