O'Connor, Rehnquist And A Supreme Marriage Proposal : NPR: Some personal secrets are so well-kept that even family and friends are oblivious. So it is with the story of the late Chief Justice William Rehnquist's marriage proposal to a Stanford Law School classmate in the early 1950s.
When 19-year-old Sandra Day entered Stanford Law School in 1949, her frequent seatmate was 26-year-old Bill Rehnquist, attending Stanford on the GI Bill. The two shared their equally meticulous class notes and eventually were dating regularly. But by December of their second year, she broke up with him while somehow retaining what she called their "study buddy" relationship; she even entered the moot-court competition with Rehnquist, and the pair finished second.
Wednesday, October 31, 2018
New York Auxiliary Bishop John Jenik credibly accused of sexual abuse
NY Auxiliary Bishop Is Credibly Accused of Sexual Abuse: A New York auxiliary bishop has been credibly accused of sexual abuse of a minor, the Archdiocese of New York has reported. Bishop John Jenik, 74, maintains his innocence.
Cardinal Timothy Dolan announced in an Oct. 29 letter to parishioners of a Bronx parish that “an allegation of inappropriate behavior with one person was brought against Bishop Jenik, who has served at Our Lady of Refuge since 1978.” “This was the first time any such allegation about him was ever made,” Cardinal Dolan added.
Cardinal Timothy Dolan announced in an Oct. 29 letter to parishioners of a Bronx parish that “an allegation of inappropriate behavior with one person was brought against Bishop Jenik, who has served at Our Lady of Refuge since 1978.” “This was the first time any such allegation about him was ever made,” Cardinal Dolan added.
Keeping in touch with death
Keeping in Touch with Death - Crisis MagazineFITZPATRICK: When my friend’s little brother died, his family performed rites that are rare nowadays. They brought the body of their boy back home. They dressed him and laid him out for a wake in their dining room. They built his coffin and carved his headstone. They dug his grave and buried him with their own hands. What an anomaly in this antiseptic age—but how natural. Death is not really a part of life anymore, not as it should be. We have lost touch with death somewhere between death-care industries and death-metal goths. Death is either an unmentionable in need of euphemisms and platitudes; or else it is a tyrant of screaming, secular horror. Death is held in one of two cultural attitudes: denial or domination. Both extremes have something in common, though: fear. While Death should not be fearfully ignored or fearfully exalted, we must be in touch with the reality of death if we are to live forever.
Music for the holy souls
Music for the Holy Souls - Crisis MagazineRUTLER: The biographies of classical composers could give the impression that irregular behavior has been almost a necessary attribute of great talent. A particularly rank example is the uniquely inventive Renaissance composer of sacred music and madrigals, Carlo Gesualdo, Prince of Venosa, who murdered his wife and her lover, mutilated their corpses and exposed them naked in the town square. He was a nephew of Saint Carlo Borromeo. Beethoven was notorious for his domestic squalor and explosive temper, and Handel could fly off the handle at the sound of an ill-tuned cello. Purcell and Sibelius spent more time in taverns than in concert halls. The cleric Vivaldi was banned from Verona to protect its schoolgirls and Bruckner later indulged a similar attraction, along with a fascination with human skulls.
What young people REALLY think about God and the Church
What Young People REALLY Think About God and the Church Brandon VogtVOGT: Going into these interviews, we at Word on Fire had studied all the major surveys about young people and faith. So we knew the number one reason why they don’t practice any religion: they “no longer believe.” They doubt God exists, or they reject the Church, or they disagree with her moral or religious teachings. Whatever the case, they just no longer believe—they’re not buying what Christianity has to offer.
But these interviews taught us that when they say they don’t believe in God or the Church, they’re often rejecting a caricature. When they’re ambivalent about Jesus, it’s often because they were led to see him as just another nice, wise man who helped poor people, an interesting figure but not someone who upends your life or compels you to follow him.
But these interviews taught us that when they say they don’t believe in God or the Church, they’re often rejecting a caricature. When they’re ambivalent about Jesus, it’s often because they were led to see him as just another nice, wise man who helped poor people, an interesting figure but not someone who upends your life or compels you to follow him.
In the lives of the saints, we see true sanity and sanctity
Sanity and Sanctity – Fr. Dwight LongeneckerLONGENECKER: Has the world gone insane, or is it me?
To be honest, I’m convinced that I am a little bit insane. (“Only a little bit?” I hear you say…)
Not only that, I’m really convinced that almost everybody else is. However, let me define my terms. By ‘insane’ I don’t mean bat-shit crazy, eye rolling drooling insane. Instead I mean that we do not have a total grip on reality. We see things askew. We have a blind spot or two or three.
There is an area of our life–maybe in politics or sexuality, theology or morality, personal habits or relationships–where we don’t see clearly. There’s an area where we do not have a grip on reality, and that means we are a little bit crazy.
To be honest, I’m convinced that I am a little bit insane. (“Only a little bit?” I hear you say…)
Not only that, I’m really convinced that almost everybody else is. However, let me define my terms. By ‘insane’ I don’t mean bat-shit crazy, eye rolling drooling insane. Instead I mean that we do not have a total grip on reality. We see things askew. We have a blind spot or two or three.
There is an area of our life–maybe in politics or sexuality, theology or morality, personal habits or relationships–where we don’t see clearly. There’s an area where we do not have a grip on reality, and that means we are a little bit crazy.
Fr. Thomas Weinandy’s letter, one year later
The Letter: One Year Later - The Catholic Thing: A year ago tomorrow I made public a letter that I wrote to Pope Francis expressing my deep concern about the “chronic confusion” in the Church and the way that his “seemingly intentional lack of clarity risks sinning against the Holy Spirit.”
In the immediate aftermath of the letter’s publication, I received over 300 emails and over 40 letters (most from the United States, but a fair number from many countries around the world) – all of which, except two, were positive.
In the immediate aftermath of the letter’s publication, I received over 300 emails and over 40 letters (most from the United States, but a fair number from many countries around the world) – all of which, except two, were positive.
Was it anti-Semitism to invite a Messianic pastor to pray at a GOP rally, after Pittsburgh?
Was it anti-Semitism to invite a Messianic pastor to pray at a GOP rally, after Pittsburgh? — GetReligionMATTINGLY: No doubt about it, inviting a pastor from a Messianic Jewish congregation to pray at a GOP campaign event is going to be controversial — under any circumstances.
Extending that invitation in the wake of the Pittsburgh synagogue massacre was an even riskier political move, one that raises all kinds of questions about the Republican leaders who organized a Michigan campaign stop for Vice President Mike Pence.
However, the first wave of coverage and partisan commentary has left me rather confused about some crucial facts in this story.
Extending that invitation in the wake of the Pittsburgh synagogue massacre was an even riskier political move, one that raises all kinds of questions about the Republican leaders who organized a Michigan campaign stop for Vice President Mike Pence.
However, the first wave of coverage and partisan commentary has left me rather confused about some crucial facts in this story.
Do you know the real history of Halloween?
New Advent: Do you know the real history of Halloween?: Halloween is a uniquely American holiday, and Catholics understandably approach its traditions with mixed emotions. However, one may not realize that the origins of Halloween are actually very Catholic. Historian Fr. Augustine Thompson, O.P., gives us a fascinating insight into Halloween and shows how a thorough understanding of its history is essential to properly approaching the festivities with faith and joy in Christ.
Pakistan Supreme Court acquits Asia Bibi of blasphemy charges
Pakistan Supreme Court Acquits Asia Bibi of Blasphemy Charges: The Pakistan Supreme Court Wednesday overturned the death sentence of Asia Bibi, a Catholic woman convicted of blasphemy in 2010, after reserving judgment on the verdict earlier this month.
Chief Justice Saqib Nisarm, who read out the verdict, said Oct. 31 that Bibi is free to leave the prison in Sheikhupura, Pakistan.
Agence France-Presse news agency quoted Bibi’s reaction by phone following the ruling. “I can’t believe what I am hearing. Will I go out now? Will they let me out, really?” she said.
The landmark verdict has been followed by protests from Islamic hardliners who support strong blasphemy laws in the country, and a heavy police presence was deployed at the Supreme Court in Islamabad to guard against a violent outbreak.
Chief Justice Saqib Nisarm, who read out the verdict, said Oct. 31 that Bibi is free to leave the prison in Sheikhupura, Pakistan.
Agence France-Presse news agency quoted Bibi’s reaction by phone following the ruling. “I can’t believe what I am hearing. Will I go out now? Will they let me out, really?” she said.
The landmark verdict has been followed by protests from Islamic hardliners who support strong blasphemy laws in the country, and a heavy police presence was deployed at the Supreme Court in Islamabad to guard against a violent outbreak.
ISIS-related group issues pair of assassination threats to Pope Francis
ISIS Group Issues Pair of Assassination Threats to Pope Francis: An ISIS-supporting media group has issued two assassination threats against Pope Francis in the past several days in what could be a revival of last year's holiday push by the terror group for violence against the Vatican and Catholic Church.
The online depictions were released by Al-Abd Al-Faqir, a prolific ISIS media group that this month threatened grenade attacks at music venues.
The first poster, released last week, warned "slaves of the Cross" as a masked gunman in a striped polo shirt and khakis is depicted sneaking up behind the pope, who is facing the "wall of death" at Auschwitz.
The online depictions were released by Al-Abd Al-Faqir, a prolific ISIS media group that this month threatened grenade attacks at music venues.
The first poster, released last week, warned "slaves of the Cross" as a masked gunman in a striped polo shirt and khakis is depicted sneaking up behind the pope, who is facing the "wall of death" at Auschwitz.
Discovery of bones near Vatican embassy revives 1983 Emanuela Orlandi mystery
Discovery of bones near Vatican embassy revives 1983 mystery | Don't Miss This | jacksonvilleprogress.com: The Vatican said Tuesday that human bones were found during renovation work near its embassy to Italy, reviving talk about one of the Holy See's most enduring mysteries — the fate of the 15-year-old daughter of a Vatican employee who disappeared in 1983.
Memento mori — Why this religious sister wants you to think about your death
Memento mori - Why this religious sister wants you to think about your deathROUSSELLE: Sr. Theresa Aletheia Noble, FSP, has had an interesting Twitter project for the last year and a half: she has kept a small (ceramic) skull on her desk, and has been tweeting daily meditations on death with the hashtag #MementoMori. The project has now grown to include two forthcoming books: a journal titled “Remember Your Death: Memento Mori Journal,” as well as a Lenten devotional titled “Remember Your Death: Memento Mori Lenten Devotional.”
Browsing the stacks: A photo appreciation of libraries around the world
A Photo Appreciation of Libraries - The Atlantic: As the days grow shorter, one might feel a strong urge to find a warm place indoors and cozy up to a good book. As much as our world hurtles toward digitized information, physical books remain popular, useful, and revered items. We share, use, collect, and read billions of books every year, and we house our most treasured ones in libraries, in some of the most remarkable architecture around the world. And for those who cannot access these amazing buildings, there are volunteers who fill the need as they can, creating mobile libraries to bring books to people in remote places. Today, a visual feast—glimpses of libraries big and small, new and old, from across the globe.
The ongoing tectonic shift in Eastern Orthodoxy is a Very Big Deal indeed
Shifting Tectonic Plates in Eastern Christianity | George Weigel | First ThingsWEIGEL: While Synod-2018 was trying to grasp the polyhedron-like character of “synodality” and wrestling with the differences among sexual inclination, sexual orientation, and sexual attraction, tectonic plates were shifting beneath the surface of world Christianity. Like similar shifts in geology, which can produce tsunamis and earthquakes, dramatic movement in the underlying structures of ecclesiastical life can lead to great historical consequences. The recent decision by the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople to grant autocephaly to a unified Ukrainian Orthodox Church—which would mean that church’s independence from the Russian Orthodox Moscow patriarchate—is precisely such a dramatic, tectonic shift, perhaps the greatest in Eastern Christianity since Constantinople and Rome formally severed full communion in 1054.
Tuesday, October 30, 2018
A layman’s (somewhat) solicited advice for Catholic priests
A Layman's (Somewhat) Solicited Advice For Catholic Priests - Catholic Missionary Disciples - College Station, TXLEJEUNE: A seminarian I know recently asked me the following question:
"What can I do as a priest to help people become missionary disciples?"
I thought this was an excellent question and it led me to write the following response. Warning, this won’t be one of my short posts.
I have been blessed to have many priests play a big part of my life. One thing that almost all my friends who are priests will tell you is I love Jesus and the Catholic Church. So, all of what I am going to say flows out of that love and a desire to see the Church be renewed.
"What can I do as a priest to help people become missionary disciples?"
I thought this was an excellent question and it led me to write the following response. Warning, this won’t be one of my short posts.
I have been blessed to have many priests play a big part of my life. One thing that almost all my friends who are priests will tell you is I love Jesus and the Catholic Church. So, all of what I am going to say flows out of that love and a desire to see the Church be renewed.
The consolation of Christ’s descent into hell
The Consolation of Christ’s Descent Into HellBEALE: Few lines of the Apostles Creed are as overlooked as this one.
Seen alone, the truth expressed in this simple line is shocking: the Church teaches that Christ went to hell.
Why would the Church say such a thing? It seems utterly scandalous. But then so is the reality of the cross, not to mention the Incarnation itself. But still: why do we affirm that Christ descended to hell?
The fundamental answer is that Christ did this to experience our fallen state to its fullest. That means that His death on the cross had to be a true death. And, in death, our bodies are separated from our souls. So while His body rested in the tomb, His human soul descended into hell—all the while still united to His divinity.
Seen alone, the truth expressed in this simple line is shocking: the Church teaches that Christ went to hell.
Why would the Church say such a thing? It seems utterly scandalous. But then so is the reality of the cross, not to mention the Incarnation itself. But still: why do we affirm that Christ descended to hell?
The fundamental answer is that Christ did this to experience our fallen state to its fullest. That means that His death on the cross had to be a true death. And, in death, our bodies are separated from our souls. So while His body rested in the tomb, His human soul descended into hell—all the while still united to His divinity.
Spain and the Vatican are at odds on the possible reburial of Franco
Spain and the Vatican at odds on possible reburial of Franco: The Spanish government announced Tuesday it will use legal means to prevent the remains of Gen. Francisco Franco from being reburied under Madrid’s cathedral, a move that could undermine efforts to rid the country of the late dictator’s long shadow.
But in a sign of how sensitive the issue has become, the Spanish government and the Vatican issued conflicting statements on what’s the best way to proceed after exhuming Franco’s embalmed body from a self-aggrandizing mausoleum outside of the Spanish capital.
But in a sign of how sensitive the issue has become, the Spanish government and the Vatican issued conflicting statements on what’s the best way to proceed after exhuming Franco’s embalmed body from a self-aggrandizing mausoleum outside of the Spanish capital.
Krakatau volcano suddenly exploded two weeks ago. Here’s what it looked like...
New Advent: Krakatau volcano suddenly exploded two weeks ago. Here’s what it looked like...: “Video was taken during a VolcanoDiscovery expedition to Krakatau from 13-20 Oct 2018. In the afternoon of 17 Oct, a particularly violent explosion occurred as lateral blast that excavated a pit crater beneath the southern lid of the crater, at the same location the September lava flow had overspilled from the crater. By 19 Oct, this new pit had merged with the main crater, enlarging it.”
Royal Observatory Greenwich announces 2018’s Astronomy Photographer of the Year
In pictures: Astronomy Photographer of the Year 2018 - BBC News: The winners of the Royal Observatory Greenwich's annual photography competition have been announced, with first place going to an image of a dramatic landscape below the Milky Way. American photographer Brad Goldpaint won both the overall award, Insight Astronomy Photographer of the Year 2018, and the People and Space category.
Taken in Moab, Utah, Goldpaint's Transport the Soul depicts immense red rock formations below the Milky Way on the right, and the distant Andromeda galaxy on the left.
Goldpaint beat thousands of amateur and professional photographers from around the globe to secure the £10,000 top prize.
Taken in Moab, Utah, Goldpaint's Transport the Soul depicts immense red rock formations below the Milky Way on the right, and the distant Andromeda galaxy on the left.
Goldpaint beat thousands of amateur and professional photographers from around the globe to secure the £10,000 top prize.
Dr. Josef Mengele, Auschwitz’s “Angel of Death,” escaped to Argentina after WWII and became an abortionist
Josef Mengele Escaped to Argentina and Became an AbortionistARCHBOLD: In the early 1990's, Argentine authorities opened its archives to reveal that several Nazi war criminals found safe haven in South America, including Dr. Josef Mengele, also known as Auschwitz’s Angel of Death. Mengele is infamous for his horrific experiments on inmates at the concentration camp. According to The New York Times in 1992, Mengele entered Argentina using a Red Cross-issued passport in 1949 and “practiced medicine in Buenos Aires for several years in the 1950s,” specializing in illegal abortions.
What anti-Semites and pro-abortionists have in common
What Anti-Semites and Pro-Abortionists Have in CommonPEARCE: One of the problems with modern politics is that everything is expressed in terms of right and left, and everyone seems to have forgotten about right and wrong. Thus, for instance, white supremacists are considered to be on the far right, whereas Antifa activists are considered to be on the far left. You’d think, therefore, that they couldn’t be further apart in terms of their respective beliefs. And yet if love of one’s neighbor is considered good and hatred of one’s neighbor is considered bad, the white supremacists and the Antifa activists are both equally bad. They are full of hatred for those whom they consider to be their enemies and are not averse to using violence to get their way.
Life lessons learned from Hollywood’s golden age
Life Lessons Learned from Hollywood’s Golden Age - Crisis MagazineESOLEN: “You young devils,” says Satan, the wily old misanthrope, wise in the ways of man, “believe you can damn the human vermin with reasoned arguments. Reason, as you should know, and for your own sake you had better remember, is of the Enemy. When we fight with it, we fight with his own weapons. What we want in that line, as our dear friends the Sophists have shown us,” and here a couple of the youngsters snigger, as one of them waves a kind of spiritual drumstick in the air, once belonging to a fellow named Dewey, “are tangles of argument without reason, and the more abstract they are, and the less dependent upon that stew of mud and muck called Nature, the better. No,” he says, “man is an irrational animal. Are you taking notes, Asmodeus?”
Never forget that fornication is a serious sin that can exclude you from Heaven
A Reminder that Fornication is a Serious Sin that Can Exclude Us From Heaven - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: The epistle from Monday’s daily Mass (30th Week of the Year) contains an admonition against unchastity. This grave warning is essential in times like these, when many call good or “no big deal” what God calls sinful. This is especially true in the realm of sexuality; entire sectors of society not only tolerate but even celebrate sexual practices that Scripture calls gravely sinful and that will lead to Hell if not repented of. Homosexual acts, fornication, and adultery cannot be considered allowable by any Catholic or any person who sincerely accepts Scripture as the Word of God. Even those who do not share our faith should be able to observe the damage these acts cause: they spread disease, harm marriages and families, subject children to less-than-ideal households (e.g., single mother/absent father), and lead to abortion.
Jesus’ response to the scandals? I think these recent private revelations might answer that question...
Jesus’ Response to the Scandals?LANDRY: This second wave of the revelation of the sexual-abuse scandals in the Church has been sickening and disheartening for so many as we confront the suffering of countless victims, the wickedness of predators, the lack of spiritual paternity and pastoral determination on the part of those with the responsibility to root it out, and the corruption and tepidity that not only tolerate such filth and infidelity but sometimes augment it.
Hexes and curses reveal the increasing need for spiritual vigilance
Hexes and Curses Reveal Need for Spiritual VigilanceARMSTRONG: Of late, the war between good and evil has made news as the veil is pulled back, revealing who the players are and their intent. This, we just witnessed with a call to curse and cause harm to the newest Supreme Court Justice. The three-hour, event to “Ritual to Hex Brett Kavanaugh” took place Oct. 20 at Catland Books in Brooklyn, New York. They scheduled another one for Nov. 3.
Astronomers vote to rename Hubble law to recognize Fr. Georges Lemaître, “Father of the Big Bang”
IAU recommends renaming Hubble’s law to include Lemaitre – Astronomy Now: An electronic vote has been conducted among all members of the International Astronomical Union, and the resolution to recommend renaming the Hubble law as the Hubble–Lemaître law has been accepted. The Hubble–Lemaître law describes the effect by which objects in an expanding Universe move away from each other with a velocity proportionally related to their distance. This resolution was proposed in order to pay tribute to both Lemaître and Hubble for their fundamental contributions to the development of modern cosmology.
Understanding why the Synod of Bishops blinked on ‘zero tolerance’
Understanding why the Synod of Bishops blinked on 'zero tolerance'ALLEN: If you’re an American Catholic, or an Australian, Irish, German, Chilean, or from pretty much anyplace else scarred by clerical sexual abuse scandals, news that a global summit of Catholic bishops in 2018 could walk up to the brink of endorsing a “zero tolerance” policy, only to pull back at the last minute, may seem almost incomprehensible.
One key to understanding how it happened is grasping that many Catholic bishops don’t hail from such places - actually, a strong majority don’t - and they bring widely differing perspectives and sensitivities to the table.
One key to understanding how it happened is grasping that many Catholic bishops don’t hail from such places - actually, a strong majority don’t - and they bring widely differing perspectives and sensitivities to the table.
Monday, October 29, 2018
Babe Ruth’s amazing conversion story — and the medal he took with him to his grave
Babe Ruth’s Amazing Conversion Story & The Little-Known Sacramental He Took to His Grave | ChurchPOP: In a letter written shortly before his death, Ruth explained his lifelong faith journey. And it was, quite literally, lifelong.
He explained that even if children do not understand or appreciate their upbringing in the Catholic faith, “once religion sinks in, it stays there–deep down.”
This proved true for him, as he attended Catholic school and had a good relationship with one of the school’s religious brothers.
He explained that even if children do not understand or appreciate their upbringing in the Catholic faith, “once religion sinks in, it stays there–deep down.”
This proved true for him, as he attended Catholic school and had a good relationship with one of the school’s religious brothers.
Number of Americans who call themselves pagans or Wiccans is on the rise
Number of Americans Who Say They Are Witches Is on the Rise: The number of Americans who claim to be witches has increased dramatically over the past 30 years.
An estimated 1 to 1.5 million people say they practice Wicca or paganism, a rise from an estimated 8,000 Wiccans in 1990 and 340,000 in 2008.
In 2014, a Pew Research Center survey found about 0.4% of Americans identify themselves as pagan or Wiccan, a significant increase over prior years.
If accurate, the Pew data would suggest that there are more self-identified “witches” in the United States than members of some mainline Protestant denominations. For example, according to 2017 figures, there are 1.4 million practicing Presbyterians in the United States.
An estimated 1 to 1.5 million people say they practice Wicca or paganism, a rise from an estimated 8,000 Wiccans in 1990 and 340,000 in 2008.
In 2014, a Pew Research Center survey found about 0.4% of Americans identify themselves as pagan or Wiccan, a significant increase over prior years.
If accurate, the Pew data would suggest that there are more self-identified “witches” in the United States than members of some mainline Protestant denominations. For example, according to 2017 figures, there are 1.4 million practicing Presbyterians in the United States.
A prayer against nightmares, and a reason you should be glad for them
A prayer against nightmares, and a reason to be glad for themHOOPES: Want to hear something scary?
The nights are long and a chill fills the air. It’s time to tell ghost stories, scary tales of villains — and share what we saw in nightmares.
These stories have the power to terrify us because there is grain of truth in them. There really are ghosts (in a way), there really are very bad people, and Christians for years have considered nightmares to be demonic visitations of a certain kind.
I want to share two nightmares that haunted my childhood, but provide a little context first.
The nights are long and a chill fills the air. It’s time to tell ghost stories, scary tales of villains — and share what we saw in nightmares.
These stories have the power to terrify us because there is grain of truth in them. There really are ghosts (in a way), there really are very bad people, and Christians for years have considered nightmares to be demonic visitations of a certain kind.
I want to share two nightmares that haunted my childhood, but provide a little context first.
Cardinal Cacciavillan, former U.S. nuncio, says he heard rumors about McCarrick as far back as 1994
Former U.S. nuncio heard rumors of McCarrick misconduct in 1994: A former nuncio to the United States acknowledged hearing rumors about the sexual misconduct of Archbishop Theodore E. McCarrick already in 1994. Cardinal Agostino Cacciavillan, who served as pro-nuncio to the United States from 1990 to 1998, told Catholic News Service Oct. 29 that he received a phone call from a woman in the months preceding St. John Paul II's visit to the United States in 1995.
"I remember in 1994, during the preparation of the papal visit to New York, Newark and Baltimore," Cardinal Cacciavillan said, "I received a telephone call" at the Apostolic Nunciature in Washington, D.C.
"I remember in 1994, during the preparation of the papal visit to New York, Newark and Baltimore," Cardinal Cacciavillan said, "I received a telephone call" at the Apostolic Nunciature in Washington, D.C.
In latest step of “quiet revolution,” Ireland votes to get rid of blasphemy ban
Ireland votes to oust ‘medieval’ blasphemy law | World news | The Guardian: Campaigners in Ireland celebrated the end of a “medieval” ban on blasphemy on Saturday, after voters overwhelmingly backed removing the offence from the constitution in a referendum.
The referendum saw 64.85% vote yes to remove the prohibition on blasphemy, with 35.15% in favour of retaining it. A total of 951,650 people voted for the change, with 515,808 opposing the move. The decision on a turnout of 43.79%, was the latest reflection of seismic social and political changes in Ireland, which the taoiseach, Leo Varadkar, has described as a “quiet revolution”.
The referendum saw 64.85% vote yes to remove the prohibition on blasphemy, with 35.15% in favour of retaining it. A total of 951,650 people voted for the change, with 515,808 opposing the move. The decision on a turnout of 43.79%, was the latest reflection of seismic social and political changes in Ireland, which the taoiseach, Leo Varadkar, has described as a “quiet revolution”.
Fr. Boniface Ramsey: The case of Theodore McCarrick is, among other things, a case of the failure of fraternal correction
The Case of Theodore McCarrick | Commonweal MagazineRAMSEY: I taught at Immaculate Conception Seminary from the late 1980s until 1996, when Theodore McCarrick was archbishop of Newark and Immaculate Conception was his seminary. What I heard in those days about McCarrick’s misbehavior with seminarians I used to refer to, until very recently, as rumors. Now I realize that “rumors” was not the right word, because rumor suggests uncertainty. What the seminarians would talk about among themselves and with some members of the faculty were experiences that they themselves had undergone, or that they had heard others had undergone. It may have been gossip, but it was gossip about real events.
The heart of darkness and the Tree of Life synagogue
The Heart of Darkness and the Tree of Life Synagogue – Fr. Dwight LongeneckerLONGENECKER: Has anyone else noticed the grim irony about last weekend’s shooting in Pittsburgh?
The Jewish place of worship was called, “The Tree of Life” synagogue. Not only did the “Tree of Life” synagogue turn out to be a Garden of Death, but the allusion to the tragedy of the Garden of Eden is all too obvious.
The Garden of Eden story about the fall of humanity is often interpreted as the entrance of sexual sin into the world. Wrong. Answer. God established marriage at the Garden of Eden and therefore established a beautiful and wholesome sexuality as the basis of human relationships of love.
The Jewish place of worship was called, “The Tree of Life” synagogue. Not only did the “Tree of Life” synagogue turn out to be a Garden of Death, but the allusion to the tragedy of the Garden of Eden is all too obvious.
The Garden of Eden story about the fall of humanity is often interpreted as the entrance of sexual sin into the world. Wrong. Answer. God established marriage at the Garden of Eden and therefore established a beautiful and wholesome sexuality as the basis of human relationships of love.
Some concluding thoughts about Synod 2018
Synod 2018: Some Concluding Thoughts | Charles J. Chaput | First ThingsCHAPUT: Synods are important events in the life of the Church, but nearly four weeks of discussing any subject can become wearying. It’s good to be home, and I’m grateful to all those who offered their prayers and support for the meeting’s success. As in the past, the bishops’ vote on the final document took place paragraph by paragraph, and like most of the delegates, I voted “yes” on most of the paragraphs.
Xavier Rynne II’s Letters From the Synod (No. 19)
Letters From the Synod-2018: #19 | Xavier Rynne II | First Things: The fifteenth ordinary general assembly of the Synod of Bishops, convened by Pope Francis to reflect on “Youth, the Faith, and Vocational Discernment,” is now history—unless you subscribe to an extreme notion of “synodality,” advanced by some bishops last week, which hints at an ongoing synodal process that will presumably include, in due course, the Parousia, the Last Judgment, and the Wedding Feast of the Lamb.
Sunday, October 28, 2018
How to gain the Nov. 1-8 plenary indulgence for the souls in purgatory
ASK FATHER: How to gain the 1-8 November plenary indulgence | Fr. Z's BlogZUHLSDORF: Thanks to you and your blog, I am intending to receive a plenary indulgence or three (aim high!) for the souls in purgatory over Nov 1 – Nov 8. Reading through the Manual of Indulgences, from the fourth edition (1999) of Enchiridion Indulgentiarum: Normae et Concessiones, N23 states:
“To gain an indulgence it is sufficient to recite the prayer
alternately with a companion or to follow it mentally while it is
being recited by another”.
To me this reads as though an indulgence cannot be granted if I only say the prayer silently to myself; that the prayer(s) need to be said with someone or recite them mentally when someone else is saying the prayer out loud. Have I interpreted this correctly? Can you please clarify?
“To gain an indulgence it is sufficient to recite the prayer
alternately with a companion or to follow it mentally while it is
being recited by another”.
To me this reads as though an indulgence cannot be granted if I only say the prayer silently to myself; that the prayer(s) need to be said with someone or recite them mentally when someone else is saying the prayer out loud. Have I interpreted this correctly? Can you please clarify?
The Church is expected to be “the adult in the room” — and so are you
On Being the Adult in the Room - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: God’s expectation (expressed through His Scriptures) that we come to maturity, to the fullness of adult faith. Further, the Church is expected, as an essential part of her ministry, to bring this about in us through His grace. The Church does this in her better moments, when we who have leadership in the Church (clergy, parents, catechists, and elders) are faithful to our call. Notice that the Ephesians text says that Christ has given apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers, to equip the holy ones unto this.
“60 Minutes” airs interview with bishop’s secretary who blew the whistle in Buffalo cover-up
Whistleblower says Buffalo bishop knew of sexual abuse allegations, but did nothing - 60 Minutes - CBS News: The Catholic Church is facing its biggest crisis in the United States since the Boston sex abuse scandal 16 years ago. 13 states are now investigating whether abuse was concealed by church leaders, including bishops who head each diocese. We have learned one place under scrutiny by federal investigators is Buffalo, New York. In August, information about dozens of accused priests was leaked from the diocesan secret archive. What it revealed, infuriated many of Buffalo's 600,000 Catholics. Tonight, you will hear from a priest who will share his direct knowledge about what he has called a cover-up. But first, the anonymous whistleblower who uncovered proof that Bishop Richard Malone withheld the names of dozens of priests accused of abuse.
Every single guy needs to read these 5 rules (and 1 suggestion) for dating
ACTS Apologist Blog: My "Five Rules", a Guide to Navigating Dating WatersOKEEFE: As a high school youth minister, I find myself working with kids in the throes of the turbulent dating scene. A scene which I, thankfully, departed back in 2010.
The years spent navigating those waters are stressful. And much of the stress comes from the inability to know the other's mind. While it is impossible to know the intricacies of every situation, it is fair to say that patterns emerge.
So one of the talks I love to give are my "5 Rules for Dating" (and 1 suggestion). These are the culmination of all the hard lessons I learned on the way to the altar. They are clearly told from a guy's perspective, but both sexes have something to learn. And I think knowing them can save a lot of heartache.
The years spent navigating those waters are stressful. And much of the stress comes from the inability to know the other's mind. While it is impossible to know the intricacies of every situation, it is fair to say that patterns emerge.
So one of the talks I love to give are my "5 Rules for Dating" (and 1 suggestion). These are the culmination of all the hard lessons I learned on the way to the altar. They are clearly told from a guy's perspective, but both sexes have something to learn. And I think knowing them can save a lot of heartache.
Bishops conclude Youth Synod by pretending they're at a bad wedding reception
Bishops Conclude Youth Synod With Dance Party (Videos Inside) | ChurchPOP: Several videos and tweets recently circulated across the internet surrounding the entertainment that took place at the conclusion of the Youth Synod.
Vatican News described it as “an evening of entertainment for the Pope and the Bishops who partook in the gathering.”
The Vatican article also said that “young auditors who participated in the Synod organized the show to thank the Pope and the Synod Fathers for listening throughout this month of discussions”
Vatican News described it as “an evening of entertainment for the Pope and the Bishops who partook in the gathering.”
The Vatican article also said that “young auditors who participated in the Synod organized the show to thank the Pope and the Synod Fathers for listening throughout this month of discussions”
At Sunday Angelus, Pope Francis prays for victims of Pittsburgh synagogue shooting
Pope Francis prays for victims of synagogue shooting: Pope Francis offered prayers for the victims of the Pittsburgh synagogue shooting in his Angelus address Sunday.
“May the The Most High welcome the dead in his peace, comfort their families and support the wounded,” Pope Francis said Oct. 28.
Eleven people were killed when a gunman opened fire at the Tree of Life synagogue Saturday morning during its Sabbath service.
“May the The Most High welcome the dead in his peace, comfort their families and support the wounded,” Pope Francis said Oct. 28.
Eleven people were killed when a gunman opened fire at the Tree of Life synagogue Saturday morning during its Sabbath service.
Synod urges ‘rigorous measures’ on abuse but stops short of ‘zero tolerance’
Synod urges 'rigorous measures' on abuse but stops short of 'zero tolerance'ALLEN: Meeting against the backdrop of massive clerical sexual abuse scandals in various parts of the world, a month-long summit of Catholic bishops wrapped up Saturday affirming that sexual abuse by Church personnel inflicts “suffering that can last a lifetime” but pulled back from an explicit endorsement of a “zero tolerance” policy.
“Different types of abuse committed by some bishops, priests, religious and laity provoke in those who are victims, including many young people, suffering that can last a lifetime to which no repentance can bring remedy,” the bishops said in a final document adopted Saturday night.
“Different types of abuse committed by some bishops, priests, religious and laity provoke in those who are victims, including many young people, suffering that can last a lifetime to which no repentance can bring remedy,” the bishops said in a final document adopted Saturday night.
Pope wraps bishops’ summit saying Church under attack from ‘great accuser’
Pope wraps bishops' summit saying Church under attack from 'great accuser'SANMARTIN: Closing a month-long gathering of bishops in Rome, Pope Francis on Saturday said the Catholic Church is under attack by the devil and urged bishops from around the world to defend the institution because “you don’t touch a mother.”
“Our mother, [the Church] is holy, but we the children are sinners,” he said. “Sinners, all of us. Let’s not forget this expression from the fathers [of the Church]: The Church is holy, the Mother is holy, with children who are sinners.”
“At this moment, [the devil] is accusing us very strongly,” the pope said. “And this accusation becomes persecution.”
“Our mother, [the Church] is holy, but we the children are sinners,” he said. “Sinners, all of us. Let’s not forget this expression from the fathers [of the Church]: The Church is holy, the Mother is holy, with children who are sinners.”
“At this moment, [the devil] is accusing us very strongly,” the pope said. “And this accusation becomes persecution.”
Here’s how the voting went on the most controverted paragraphs of the Synod’s final document
The Final Document of the Synod. The Votes on the Most Controversial Points - Settimo Cielo - Blog - L’EspressoMAGISTER: In voting point by point on the final document of the synod on young people, on the afternoon of Saturday, October 27, in almost every case the synod fathers approved the text by a wide majority.
Out of 167 points put to a vote, fully 125 times the votes against were fewer than 10 and the votes in favor equal to or more than 240.
On only fifteen points were the votes against equal to or more than 30. And in only two cases were the votes against more than 50, in any case far from the threshold of the 83 “non placet,” equivalent to one third of the voters, which if crossed would have entailed the non-approval of the paragraph.
Out of 167 points put to a vote, fully 125 times the votes against were fewer than 10 and the votes in favor equal to or more than 240.
On only fifteen points were the votes against equal to or more than 30. And in only two cases were the votes against more than 50, in any case far from the threshold of the 83 “non placet,” equivalent to one third of the voters, which if crossed would have entailed the non-approval of the paragraph.
Here are 5 areas of concern in the Youth Synod’s final document
Youth Synod Final Document: Five Areas of ConcernPENTIN: The Vatican released the final document of the Youth Synod on Saturday evening, and although the 249 synod fathers who voted on the document gave it a sustained round of applause after the voting ended, various paragraphs are causing concern, even if all obtained the requisite two-thirds majority. These passages can be summed up as follows...
The Synod’s final document: A rush to judgment
The Synod Final Document: A Rush to JudgmentDESOUZA: “I don’t know if this document will do anything,” Pope Francis said in his brief, extemporaneous address to conclude the Synod on Youth. “We approved the document. The Holy Spirit gives us the document so that it can work in our hearts.”
The final document of the synod may do something indeed, as the new regulations promulgated just before this synod by Pope Francis make it possible that he may designate it as an act of the magisterium of the Church. As a novelty, it remains to be seen what exactly that would mean.
What decision the Holy Father will take in that regard has not yet been decided, as clarified at the final press briefing by Dr. Paolo Ruffini, head of Vatican communications. It will be some time until that decision is made.
The final document of the synod may do something indeed, as the new regulations promulgated just before this synod by Pope Francis make it possible that he may designate it as an act of the magisterium of the Church. As a novelty, it remains to be seen what exactly that would mean.
What decision the Holy Father will take in that regard has not yet been decided, as clarified at the final press briefing by Dr. Paolo Ruffini, head of Vatican communications. It will be some time until that decision is made.
Youth Synod final report addresses gender, sexuality
Youth Synod Final Report Addresses Gender, Sexuality: The final report of the fifteenth general session of the Synod of Bishops, held on the topics of young people, faith, and vocational discernment, was released Saturday. The document says the Church must find new ways of presenting its teaching on sexuality and continue to “accompany” and “listen to” people with same-sex attraction.
The final draft of the synod report was presented to members Oct. 27 for voting, which took place in two sessions that day. The draft was passed in its entirety. During the voting process, each paragraph of the document was voted on, requiring 166 or more “yes” votes — a two-thirds majority — to pass and be included in the final report.
The final draft of the synod report was presented to members Oct. 27 for voting, which took place in two sessions that day. The draft was passed in its entirety. During the voting process, each paragraph of the document was voted on, requiring 166 or more “yes” votes — a two-thirds majority — to pass and be included in the final report.
Saturday, October 27, 2018
“I am convinced the devil lives in our phones”: A dark consensus about screens and kids emerges in Silicon Valley
A Dark Consensus About Screens and Kids Begins to Emerge in Silicon Valley - The New York Times: The people who are closest to a thing are often the most wary of it. Technologists know how phones really work, and many have decided they don’t want their own children anywhere near them.
A wariness that has been slowly brewing is turning into a regionwide consensus: The benefits of screens as a learning tool are overblown, and the risks for addiction and stunting development seem high. The debate in Silicon Valley now is about how much exposure to phones is O.K.
A wariness that has been slowly brewing is turning into a regionwide consensus: The benefits of screens as a learning tool are overblown, and the risks for addiction and stunting development seem high. The debate in Silicon Valley now is about how much exposure to phones is O.K.
False flags, fake bombs and conspiracy theories
False Flags, Fake Bombs and Conspiracy Theories – Fr. Dwight LongeneckerLONGENECKER: The letter bombs that Cesar Sayoc Jr is alleged to have sent immediately spawned false flag conspiracy theories. Right wingers said they were not really sent to intimidate Democrats, instead they were part of a Democrat plot to paint Republicans as terrorists. The problem with such theories is that they could just as easily generate further theories. So perhaps it wasn’t Democrats who planted the bombs to paint right wingers as extremists. Maybe it was right wingers who planted the bombs so that Democrats would be blamed for planting the bombs. The Republicans therefore planted the bombs as a kind of false flag on a false flag. They, to chase one’s tale further you could say, “No, the Democrats planted the bombs so that it would seem that the Republicans planted the bombs in order to blame the Democrats for a false flag when really the truth was that…”
Chinese authorities destroy two Marian shrines despite Vatican-China agreement
Chinese authorities destroy two Marian shrines despite Vatican-China agreement: As part of an ongoing crackdown on religious practice in the country, Chinese authorities demolished two Catholic Marian shrines this week. The move comes just one month after the Chinese government signed an agreement with the Vatican regarding the appointment of bishops.
According to reports from AsiaNews, government authorities destroyed the Marian shrines of Our Lady of the Seven Sorrows in Dongergou (Shanxi), and Our Lady of Bliss, also known as Our Lady of the Mountain, in Anlong (Guizhou).
According to reports from AsiaNews, government authorities destroyed the Marian shrines of Our Lady of the Seven Sorrows in Dongergou (Shanxi), and Our Lady of Bliss, also known as Our Lady of the Mountain, in Anlong (Guizhou).
Friday, October 26, 2018
#MeaCulpa in a #MeToo Age
#MeaCulpa in a #MeToo AgeTHOMPSON: We are probably too close to the epicenter to draw too many conclusions. Feelings remain intense and hearts are still too raw from the public bruising. It’s not clear that justice has been served or even can be. Nor is it even clear how much blame we can ascribe. “Sin speaks to the sinner in his heart” — and we cannot discern the hearts of others. But what we have been given over these past few months is a kind of modern-day morality tale. A vignette of characters who could easily serve as prompts for our own examination of conscience. On the stage are “profiles of the penitent,” a kind of triptych of iconic characters of the all-too-familiar experience of attempting to confront our regrets, our remorse, our failure – and, maybe, even our sin.
Forced sterilizations in Peru — paid for by U.S. taxpayers
Forced Sterilizations in Peru — Paid for by US Taxpayers | Mises WireMCMAKEN: In countries under heavy US influence or occupation, the US government has a habit of pushing political programs that would be too unpopular to implement in the United States.
In Japan, for example, the US occupation after World War II offered an opportunity for American bureaucrats to push abortion policies they couldn't win support for in the United States.
In Japan, for example, the US occupation after World War II offered an opportunity for American bureaucrats to push abortion policies they couldn't win support for in the United States.
European court upholds conviction of woman who called Muhammad’s sex with young child “pedophilia”
Defaming Muhammad does not fall under purview of free speech, European court rules | Fox News: The freedom of speech does not extend to include defaming the prophet of Islam, the European Court of Human rights ruled Thursday.
The Strasbourg-based ECHR ruled that insulting Islamic prophet Muhammad “goes beyond the permissible limits of an objective debate” and “could stir up prejudice and put at risk religious peace.”
The court’s decision comes after it rejected an Austrian woman’s claim that her previous conviction for calling Muhammad a pedophile, due to his marriage to a 6-year-old girl, violated her freedom of speech.
The ECHR ruled Austrian courts had “carefully balanced her right to freedom of expression with the right of others to have their religious feelings protected.”
The Strasbourg-based ECHR ruled that insulting Islamic prophet Muhammad “goes beyond the permissible limits of an objective debate” and “could stir up prejudice and put at risk religious peace.”
The court’s decision comes after it rejected an Austrian woman’s claim that her previous conviction for calling Muhammad a pedophile, due to his marriage to a 6-year-old girl, violated her freedom of speech.
The ECHR ruled Austrian courts had “carefully balanced her right to freedom of expression with the right of others to have their religious feelings protected.”
Father Michael McGivney founded the Knights of Columbus — and played baseball
World Series: Fun facts about baseball legends and the Knights of Columbus - The Dialog: With the World Series underway, here is a fun fact: Father Michael McGivney, founder of the Knights of Columbus, played ball. And if one game is any indication, he was pretty good.
While studying for the priesthood at Niagara University, McGivney and other Connecticut seminarians formed the Charter Oaks, according to historian Douglas Brinkley, principal author of “Parish Priest,” McGivney’s biography.
On May 20, 1872, the Charter Oaks faced the Mohawks, another seminary team. McGivney started in left field, implying that he could run fast and throw far in the era before fields were fenced-in. He also batted clean-up, scoring three times in a winning effort. It is the only record of McGivney’s skills but it tends to confirm, in Brinkley’s words, that the founder of the Knights was “a naturally talented ballplayer.”
While studying for the priesthood at Niagara University, McGivney and other Connecticut seminarians formed the Charter Oaks, according to historian Douglas Brinkley, principal author of “Parish Priest,” McGivney’s biography.
On May 20, 1872, the Charter Oaks faced the Mohawks, another seminary team. McGivney started in left field, implying that he could run fast and throw far in the era before fields were fenced-in. He also batted clean-up, scoring three times in a winning effort. It is the only record of McGivney’s skills but it tends to confirm, in Brinkley’s words, that the founder of the Knights was “a naturally talented ballplayer.”
The tragedy of Saudi Arabia’s war in Yemen (warning: disturbing images)
The Tragedy of Saudi Arabia’s War - The New York Times: Chest heaving and eyes fluttering, the 3-year-old boy lay silently on a hospital ward in the highland town of Hajjah, a bag of bones fighting for breath. His father, Ali al-Hajaji, stood anxiously over him. Mr. Hajaji had already lost one son three weeks earlier to the epidemic of hunger sweeping across Yemen. Now he feared that a second was slipping away.
3,800 American ghost towns you can visit on one map
3800 American Ghost Towns You Can Visit on One Map | Mental Floss: Not every city is destined to survive forever. In the 19th century, plenty of towns established during mining, oil, and railway booms flourished for a few decades, then shriveled up when their single source of economic support dried up, leaving entire towns abandoned. Geotab recently mapped out more than 3800 of these ghost towns across the U.S., diving into what areas have the highest concentration of long-abandoned settlements.
SQLite founder adopts controversial Benedictine Code of Conduct
SQLite Founder Adopts Controversial Benedictine Code of Conduct: The founder of the world's most widely used database engine ignited a firestorm in the tech community after it was revealed that he had posted a code of conduct for users based on the teachings of the Bible and an ancient order of monks founded by Benedict of Nursia.
Codes of conduct (CoC) have been all the rage in online communities in recent years. The gaming and tech communities, in particular, have grappled with behavior standards for online users in forums where bad behavior sometimes proliferates. While a CoC for users of a forum or email list sounds like a good idea in theory, increasingly they've been used to push social justice talking points and left-wing ideologies. For example, this sample CoC from Geek Feminism bans harassment, which it defines as "Verbal comments that reinforce social structures of domination [related to gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, age, religion, [your specific concern here]."
Codes of conduct (CoC) have been all the rage in online communities in recent years. The gaming and tech communities, in particular, have grappled with behavior standards for online users in forums where bad behavior sometimes proliferates. While a CoC for users of a forum or email list sounds like a good idea in theory, increasingly they've been used to push social justice talking points and left-wing ideologies. For example, this sample CoC from Geek Feminism bans harassment, which it defines as "Verbal comments that reinforce social structures of domination [related to gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, age, religion, [your specific concern here]."
Former Memphis Bishop Martin Holley speaks out about firing, says Cardinal Wuerl influenced Pope’s decision
Bishop Martin Holley says Cardinal Wuerl influenced his removal from Memphis: One day after he was removed as head of the Diocese of Memphis, Bishop Martin Holley told CNA that he wants to be transparent about the reasons for his removal.
He says the decision was not about mismanagement, or past allegations of sexual misconduct. Instead, he believes that he was removed at the behest of Cardinal Donald Wuerl, former Archbishop of Washington, who influenced or collaborated with apostolic nuncio Archbishop Christophe Pierre to excise him from episcopal ministry.
He says the decision was not about mismanagement, or past allegations of sexual misconduct. Instead, he believes that he was removed at the behest of Cardinal Donald Wuerl, former Archbishop of Washington, who influenced or collaborated with apostolic nuncio Archbishop Christophe Pierre to excise him from episcopal ministry.
“Synodality” in final doc didn't come from synod fathers, drafter says
'Synodality' in final doc didn't come from synod fathers, drafter saysALLENSANMARTIN: A member of the drafting committee for the final document of the 2018 Synod of Bishops says that language on “synodality” and “discernment” in a draft distributed to bishops earlier this week came from neither synod discussions nor the committee, guessing it was inserted by officials appointed by Pope Francis to run the event.
“They’re very heavily stressed, discernment and synodality, which really were not very much prominent in the discussions,” said Cardinal Oswald Gracias of Mumbai, India, a member of both the drafting committee for the final synod document and the pope’s “C9” council of cardinal advisors.
“It wasn’t very prominent in the minds of the synod fathers, but it’s come out very strongly,” Gracias told Crux.
“They’re very heavily stressed, discernment and synodality, which really were not very much prominent in the discussions,” said Cardinal Oswald Gracias of Mumbai, India, a member of both the drafting committee for the final synod document and the pope’s “C9” council of cardinal advisors.
“It wasn’t very prominent in the minds of the synod fathers, but it’s come out very strongly,” Gracias told Crux.
Less noise, more surrender: The wisdom of the ‘Marian Option’
Less noise, more surrender: The wisdom of the ‘Marian Option’ - Angelus News - Multimedia Catholic NewsLOPEZ: Over the summer, I sat in on a Saturday discussion among mostly local women — all “pray-ers” — at the National Shrine of Divine Mercy in Stockbridge, Massachusetts, about motherhood and faith. It had been convened by one of the Marian brothers there who was entranced by Pope Francis’ homily on the solemnity of Mary — New Year’s Day — this year. Brother John Luth, MIC, the convener, was particularly taken with these words from the sermon: “If our faith is not to be reduced merely to an idea or a doctrine, we must all have a mother’s heart, one which knows how to keep the tender love of God, and to feel the heartbeat of all around us.”
The technology of pipe bombs and what makes a suspicious package “suspicious,” explained
Pipe-Bomb Attacks Explained — Answers To Your Questions About the PIpe Bomb Attacks: Over the last few days, several prominent figures have received pipe bombs from an unknown terrorist, apparently with a political motivation—all the targets are vocal critics of President Trump. Devices have been delivered through the mail and by courier to locations around the country.
In the wake of these troubling attacks, you may be wondering how the authorities determine that a package is "suspicious" and what happens after they carry the object away. Here's what you need to know.
In the wake of these troubling attacks, you may be wondering how the authorities determine that a package is "suspicious" and what happens after they carry the object away. Here's what you need to know.
Hardly discussed during assembly, “synodality” forms large part of final document draft
Draft of Final Document Thrusts Synodality to the ForePENTIN: An element of the draft final document of the Youth Synod of concern to some Synod Fathers this week has been the unexpected addition of the theme of “synodality” — a word that has come to mean decentralizing and democratizing the Church and the magisterium away from the papacy and the Vatican to local churches.
The subject was hardly discussed during this month’s meeting, and yet it dominates the third part of the draft document, surprising many of the Synod Fathers.
The subject was hardly discussed during this month’s meeting, and yet it dominates the third part of the draft document, surprising many of the Synod Fathers.
Feds warn U.S. bishops: Documents not to be “destroyed, discarded, disposed of, deleted, or altered”
Whispers in the Loggia: Expanding PA Probe, Feds Warn US Church: "All Your Files Are Belong To Us"PALMO: A week since initial word emerged of the US Department of Justice's most sweeping investigation to date into abuse and its cover-up, as an extension into the Feds' nascent grand-jury probe of the dioceses of Pennsylvania, every last Stateside Chancery has now received an effective nationwide order "to not destroy, discard, dispose of, delete, or alter" a host of records pertaining to personnel in general, and abuse – and its related claims – in particular.
Thursday, October 25, 2018
What popes did Saint Thomas More die for?
What Popes Did Saint Thomas More Die For? | Matthew SchneiderSCHNEIDER: We all probably know that St. Thomas More died for refusing to sign the Oath of Supremacy, which incorrectly declared the king as the rightful head of the Church of England. Thus, he was a martyr for unity between English Christians and Rome. But, have you ever thought about who were the popes and Church officials in his lifetime?
I want to go through all the popes that reigned in the 57 years that Thomas More lived, along with some of the Archbishops of Canterbury and officials in the Roman Curia. Some of these are notoriously bad. As More was well-connected, at one point second to the king, it is unlikely he would’ve been wholly ignorant of these issues.
I want to go through all the popes that reigned in the 57 years that Thomas More lived, along with some of the Archbishops of Canterbury and officials in the Roman Curia. Some of these are notoriously bad. As More was well-connected, at one point second to the king, it is unlikely he would’ve been wholly ignorant of these issues.
Can we still “stick together” when it counts?
Can We Still “Stick Together” When It Counts? | Word on FireSCALIA: That my mother hated Jews was clear, although why she hated them was one of those shameful mysteries I doubt she could have explained had I asked her. What I heard, growing up, sounded like jealousy and resentment. As a waitress in a catering hall, she would serve at Bar Mitzvah receptions and then come home seething about the amounts of money she imagined the young guest of honor had taken in.
Smile a little smile for me, Rose Marie
Smile a Little Smile For Me, Rosemarie | OC CatholicDAY: My aunt, Rosemary Day, died recently at the age of 62. These immediate days of processing her passing kindle both sadness and joy. It is a unique sensation. There is often the temptation to canonize someone immediately upon death, but Rose—Miss Rose Marie, as she would clarify—truly touched the hearts of all who met her. Now, though Rose is physically gone, the memories and the laughter and that melancholic clash of the inevitable end of earthly life and hope in eternal life play out among us the living, charged with keeping the light of her life aflame.
China constructing secret network of prison camps for Muslims, satellite photos reveal
China's hidden camps - BBC News: On 12 July 2015 a satellite swung over the rolling deserts and oasis cities of China's vast far west.
One of the images it captured that day just shows a patch of empty, untouched, ashen-grey sand.
It seems an unlikely place to start an investigation into one of the most pressing human rights concerns of our age.
But less than three years later, on 22 April 2018, a satellite photo of that same piece of desert showed something new.
A massive, highly secure compound had materialized.
It is enclosed with a 2km-long exterior wall punctuated by 16 guard towers.
One of the images it captured that day just shows a patch of empty, untouched, ashen-grey sand.
It seems an unlikely place to start an investigation into one of the most pressing human rights concerns of our age.
But less than three years later, on 22 April 2018, a satellite photo of that same piece of desert showed something new.
A massive, highly secure compound had materialized.
It is enclosed with a 2km-long exterior wall punctuated by 16 guard towers.
Are these Holy Nails actual relics of the Crucifixion?
The Holy Nails: Relics of the Crucifixion?MCDONALD: Between 326 and 328, St. Helena, mother of the Emperor Constantine, traveled to the Holy Land to search for sites and relics associated with the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. The cross, the nails, the tunic of Christ, and a rope used to tie him to the cross were recovered. Whether or not these were all genuine is another question, but any consideration of these relics begins with Helena. In other words, we may not be able to prove that these are relics of Christ, but we can certainly come close to proving they are the relics recovered by St. Helena.
10 more good basic books for theology
10 More Good Basic Books for TheologyCUSH: I was at the reception for our recently ordained transitional deacons here at the Pontifical North American College and I was introduced to one of the guests of a new deacon. This fine lady, visiting Rome from the United States, surprised me when she met me by saying, “Oh, you’re the book list priest from the internet!” At the risk of labeling myself as “the book list priest from the internet,” and as a response to some requests that I have received from some readers for some more lists of books that might be helpful in the building up of a Catholic library, I have decided to go and create four more book lists! Yes, book sellers will be pleased with me and I hope that you will pleased with these fine books.
Armies collapse and empires crumble at the feet of the saints
Armies Collapse and Empires Crumble at the Feet of the SaintsRUTLER: There are those who would not let facts get in the way of theory, and such was the English philosopher Herbert Spencer who promoted the “survival of the fittest.” This “Social Darwinism” theorized that the weak and poor would gradually die out to make way for an inevitable social progress. He was idolized by Andrew Carnegie, even though that richest man in the world was generous in philanthropies that Spencer disdained. Carnegie prevailed upon his mentor to visit Pittsburgh, whose Bessemer mills were supposed to be a model of social progress. Spencer confessed: “Six months’ residence here would justify suicide.”
Cardinal Zen: Vatican deal “is a major step toward the annihilation of the real Church in China”
Opinion | The Pope Doesn’t Understand China - The New York Times: Last month the Vatican announced that it had come to a provisional agreement with the government of China over the appointment of Catholic bishops. Supporters of the deal say that it finally brings unity after longstanding division — between an underground Church loyal to the pope and an official church approved by the Chinese authorities — and that with it, the Chinese government has for the first time recognized the authority of the pope. In fact, the deal is a major step toward the annihilation of the real Church in China.
Long a lightning rod, Sodano figures in McCarrick/Viganò saga too
Long a lightning rod, Sodano figures in McCarrick/Vigan� saga tooHARRIS: When it comes to Vatican scandals, a few names tend to surface every time a new crisis comes to light. At the top of most lists would be Italian Cardinal Angelo Sodano, easily among the most influential Vatican officials over the past three decades.
From the Chilean abuse crisis to the scandals surrounding Legionaries of Christ founder Father Marcial Maciel and even abuse allegations in Germany, Sodano’s name has emerged in each case, usually attached to accusations that he either defended the abuser or tried to cushion their fall.
From the Chilean abuse crisis to the scandals surrounding Legionaries of Christ founder Father Marcial Maciel and even abuse allegations in Germany, Sodano’s name has emerged in each case, usually attached to accusations that he either defended the abuser or tried to cushion their fall.
The little-known British schoolteacher who received the stigmata and private revelations from Our Lord
The Wigan teacher who bore the stigmata | CatholicHerald.co.ukCALDWELL: Teresa Higginson was oblivious to the blood trickling down her neck and on to her white scarf as she emerged from the church where she had been praying. A colleague spotted the stain and quietly advised her to change before returning to teach in a nearby school, later saying she would never forget Teresa’s expression when she realised what was happening.
Wednesday, October 24, 2018
There is something about holiness that must be hidden. But there’s a twist...
The Paradox of Holiness: Hidden Yet RadiantBEALE: We know that humility is essential to holiness because it is only by lowering ourselves we are lifted up to heaven. In pride, however, we idolize ourselves into our own personal gods. We therefore close off the possibility of receiving God into our lives. Only the humble person is small enough to receive the greatness of God.
But hiddenness may lead us to God in another way as well. This is because God in His being is invisible. Perhaps, then, to be with the God who is hidden we must ourselves become hidden.
But hiddenness may lead us to God in another way as well. This is because God in His being is invisible. Perhaps, then, to be with the God who is hidden we must ourselves become hidden.
Are efforts being made to smuggle homosexuality and other rejected topics into the youth synod?
Are Efforts Being Made to Smuggle Rejected Topics into Youth Synod?PENTIN: The Synod Fathers are currently examining and debating the final document of the Youth Synod, tabling amendments and propositions (modi) to the draft which will be voted on, paragraph by paragraph, on Saturday. The general sense among the bishops, including those from Africa (whose voice some said had been “drowned out”) is that their views have been listened to and have found their way into the document. But sources inside the synod hall say that efforts are currently underway to smuggle into the document by other means issues not expected to pass a two-thirds vote, and firmly opposed by a majority of synod fathers.
How Peru forcibly sterilized 200,000 women in the 1990s — and why U.S. taxpayers paid them to do it
Fujimori Re-Imprisonment and Peru’s Forgotten Forced-Sterilization ProgramFERRISI: In an age when the #MeToo movement has increased the sensitivity toward the rights of women, many would be shocked to realize that a U.S. government agency and the U.N. Population Fund encouraged and financed a program of forced sterilizations in Peru during the 1990s.
Alberto Fujimori, the former Peruvian dictator, was recently ordered back to prison this month after a court overturned his pardon. Imprisoned for human-rights abuses and corruption since 2007, he was pardoned last year by then-president of Peru Pedro Pablo Kuczynski.
Alberto Fujimori, the former Peruvian dictator, was recently ordered back to prison this month after a court overturned his pardon. Imprisoned for human-rights abuses and corruption since 2007, he was pardoned last year by then-president of Peru Pedro Pablo Kuczynski.
A call to courage from the Book of Esther
A Call To Courage from the Book of Esther - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: In the Office of the Readings, we are currently reading from the Book of Esther. At the heart of the book is a reminder that there come moments in our lives when we must stand up and be counted whatever the cost. At such times we must confront our fears, choose sides, and act with heroic character to ensure what is right and just. If we are truly to be God’s prophets and want His Kingdom to prevail, staying silent or waiting for others to act is not an acceptable option.
Was there a big Catholic ghost in ‘The Exorcist?’ Don't ask the Los Angeles Times about that...
Was there a big Catholic ghost in 'The Exorcist'? Don't ask the Los Angeles Times about that — GetReligionMATTINGLY: It feels really stupid to say that there was a major religion “ghost” in William Peter Blatty’s classic screenplay for “The Exorcist,” the horror classic that was based on his own novel.
It would be hard to write a story that — R-rating and all — contained more in-your-face religious issues and references than this one. Blatty, who died last year, was super candid about his goal to create a tale that (all together now) scared the “hell” out of people. But hold that thought, because we will come back to it.
It would be hard to write a story that — R-rating and all — contained more in-your-face religious issues and references than this one. Blatty, who died last year, was super candid about his goal to create a tale that (all together now) scared the “hell” out of people. But hold that thought, because we will come back to it.
How will McCarrick, Pennsylvania and Viganò affect the selection of Cardinal Wuerl’s successor?
McCarrick, Vigano and the Next Archbishop of WashingtonDESMOND: The McCarrick scandal has trained a harsh spotlight on the mostly secret process of appointing bishops to top U.S. Church posts, as I note in my recent story here.
Now, following the retirement of Cardinal Donald Wuerl, who remains as administrator of the archdiocese until a successor is named, critics are waiting to see how the scandal will shape the appointment of the next archbishop of Washington, D.C.
Will a McCarrick protégé take up the reins of the Church in the nation’s capital, as some media outlets predict, or will Pope Francis select a different kind of Church leader who has operated outside the former archbishop of Washington’s circle of influence?
Now, following the retirement of Cardinal Donald Wuerl, who remains as administrator of the archdiocese until a successor is named, critics are waiting to see how the scandal will shape the appointment of the next archbishop of Washington, D.C.
Will a McCarrick protégé take up the reins of the Church in the nation’s capital, as some media outlets predict, or will Pope Francis select a different kind of Church leader who has operated outside the former archbishop of Washington’s circle of influence?
The youth synod seems to be the most peaceful ever, even on the topic of homosexuality
Synod. The Pope Has Hit the Brakes, and On Homosexuality the Catechism Still Applies - Settimo Cielo - Blog - L’EspressoMAGISTER: The two synods on the family of 2014 and 2015 were among the most deliberately steered in history, so much so that at the beginning of the second session thirteen top-ranking cardinals wrote a letter to Pope Francis precisely to denounce the maneuvers aimed at producing “predetermined results on important disputed questions.”
The point being that the outcome of that double synod was already decided even before it was celebrated. And its coronation was the post-synodal exhortation “Amoris Laetitia,” with which Francis gave the go-ahead to communion for the divorced and remarried, in spite of the fact that a good one-third of the synod fathers had spoken out against it.
The point being that the outcome of that double synod was already decided even before it was celebrated. And its coronation was the post-synodal exhortation “Amoris Laetitia,” with which Francis gave the go-ahead to communion for the divorced and remarried, in spite of the fact that a good one-third of the synod fathers had spoken out against it.
This newly-discovered 2,400-year-old Greek ship is the oldest shipwreck ever found intact
Greek Trading Ship That Sank 2,400 Years Ago Found Intact: Assumed to be a Greek trading vessel, the ship was so well preserved because it was buried deep in the Black Sea in anoxic (oxygen-deprived) water. Without oxygen corroding the wooden hull, the ship has remained more or less the same since it sank around 400 BCE. Researchers are stunned that its rowing benches, rudders, and mast are all intact.
D.C.’s Bible Museum say five of its Dead Sea Scrolls are fake
Bible Museum say five of its Dead Sea Scrolls are fake - CNN: The Museum of the Bible in Washington, DC says five of its most valuable artifacts -- once thought to be part of the historic Dead Sea Scrolls -- are fake and will not be displayed anymore.
German-based scholars tested the fragments and found that five "show characteristics inconsistent with ancient origin and therefore will no longer be displayed at the museum."
CNN raised questions about the museum's Dead Sea Scroll fragments in an article published last November, as the Green family prepared to unveil their new, $500 million museum. At 430,000 square feet, and with views of the Capitol, the Bible museum represents a significant investment for its evangelical founders.
German-based scholars tested the fragments and found that five "show characteristics inconsistent with ancient origin and therefore will no longer be displayed at the museum."
CNN raised questions about the museum's Dead Sea Scroll fragments in an article published last November, as the Green family prepared to unveil their new, $500 million museum. At 430,000 square feet, and with views of the Capitol, the Bible museum represents a significant investment for its evangelical founders.
Heeding the Pope’s request, U.S. bishops to gather in January for a weeklong retreat at Mundelein
Whispers in the Loggia: Into the Woods – In Obedience To Pope, US Bench Sets January RetreatPALMO: With less than three weeks until a November meeting that's arguably even more consequential than its seismic 2002 predecessor in Dallas – and amid a fraught planning that's come under pointed criticism from no shortage of fronts – this afternoon brought another sudden development in the gradual response of the US bishops: the Mothership's announcement that the bench would convene for a weeklong retreat at Chicago's Mundelein Seminary (above), beginning on January 2nd.
20/20 vision: The readings for the 30th Sunday in Ordinary Time
The Sacred Page: 20/20 Vision: The Readings for the 30th Sunday in OTBERGSMA: My vision is terrible. Uncorrected, it’s probably much worse than 20/200. My glasses prescription is about -8.5 diopters, for those of you who know what that means. Without my glasses, the whole world looks like a poorly-executed Impressionist painting. I’ve often wondered if Monet had bad eyesight, too.
Bad vision usually isn’t too much of an inconvenience these days. High index lenses have taken the bulk out of the old “coke bottles.” For sports, I can slip in a pair of contacts.
Bad vision usually isn’t too much of an inconvenience these days. High index lenses have taken the bulk out of the old “coke bottles.” For sports, I can slip in a pair of contacts.
One of the most consistent appeals to tradition is women wearing veils. But how traditional is it?
The Case of the Missing Veil - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: One of the most consistent appeals to tradition is women wearing veils. For the record, I love to see women wearing veils and hats at Mass, but as a general notion, nothing says tradition as much as the veil.
But how traditional is it? I have been collecting photographs from Catholic tradition and was surprised to see that in photos prior to 1960 most of the women were not wearing veils. It seems that the period during which veils were worn was short—not more than ten years (early to late 1960s). Rather, women wore hats. Most but not all the photos were taken in the United States, but they consistently show women in hats, not veils prior to 1960.
But how traditional is it? I have been collecting photographs from Catholic tradition and was surprised to see that in photos prior to 1960 most of the women were not wearing veils. It seems that the period during which veils were worn was short—not more than ten years (early to late 1960s). Rather, women wore hats. Most but not all the photos were taken in the United States, but they consistently show women in hats, not veils prior to 1960.
The youth synod’s draft final report is better than many expected (or feared), but some problems remain
Letters From the Synod-2018: #16 | Xavier Rynne II | First Things: No one should envy the actual wordsmiths who had to do the heavy lifting, behind the scenes of the drafting commission, to produce a draft final report for Synod-2018, which was given to the Synod fathers yesterday morning. Not only did those drafters have to contend with the hundreds of proposals offered to the Synod in its general assemblies as well as in its discussion groups; an even greater challenge involved navigating the fault lines in the Catholic Church that Synod-2018 has made unmistakably clear. It’s worth noting some of those fault lines before offering some first observations on the draft final report itself.
How to cultivate a public Church, not a partisan Church
A Public Church, not a Partisan Church | George Weigel | First ThingsWEIGEL: The temptation to ally the Church with a particular political party and its program is a perennial one, it seems. When that temptation is not resisted, it invariably leads to trouble—politically and, more importantly, evangelically. That was true in twentieth-century Quebec, Ireland, Spain, and Portugal; it is now a danger in twenty-first-century Poland, where a number of Polish bishops have identified the Church’s public interests with those of “Law and Justice,” the present governing party.
Analysis: Will the LGBT debate define the youth synod?
Analysis: Will LGBT debate define the youth synod?CONDON: As the fifteenth ordinary general session of the Synod of Bishops draws to a close in Rome, the proposed text of the final document is expected to emerge presently.
The synod is meant to address the themes of young people, faith, and vocational discernment.
Throughout the synod, there has also been discussion about whether the final document will include new language for addressing people who experience same-sex attraction, as the synod’s working document, or instrumentum laboris, does.
The synod is meant to address the themes of young people, faith, and vocational discernment.
Throughout the synod, there has also been discussion about whether the final document will include new language for addressing people who experience same-sex attraction, as the synod’s working document, or instrumentum laboris, does.
Pope Francis fires Memphis Bishop Martin Holley, appoints Archbishop Joseph Kurtz as administrator
Pope Francis Removes Bishop Holley as Head of Memphis Diocese: Pope Francis Wednesday removed Bishop Martin Holley from the pastoral government of the Diocese of Memphis and appointed Archbishop Joseph Kurtz of Louisville to oversee the diocese until further notice.
The Vatican said that the Holy Father “has relieved” Bishop Holley “from the pastoral government of the diocese of Memphis” and appointed Archbishop Kurtz temporary apostolic administrator “ad nutum Sanctae Sedis,” meaning “at the disposition of the Holy See.”
The removal follows a Vatican investigation into the Diocese of Memphis in June to address concerns about major changes Bishop Holley, 63, had made. Among these was the reassignment of up to two-thirds of the 60 active priests in the diocese, according to local media reports.
The Vatican said that the Holy Father “has relieved” Bishop Holley “from the pastoral government of the diocese of Memphis” and appointed Archbishop Kurtz temporary apostolic administrator “ad nutum Sanctae Sedis,” meaning “at the disposition of the Holy See.”
The removal follows a Vatican investigation into the Diocese of Memphis in June to address concerns about major changes Bishop Holley, 63, had made. Among these was the reassignment of up to two-thirds of the 60 active priests in the diocese, according to local media reports.
Tuesday, October 23, 2018
‘Extreme’ abortion bill passes first stage in U.K. parliament
‘Extreme’ abortion bill passes first stage in UK parliament | CatholicHerald.co.uk: A proposal that would radically change abortion law in England and Wales, as well as imposing abortion on Northern Ireland, has passed its first stage in the House of Commons.
MPs voted by 208 to 123 to approve the Ten Minute Rule Motion proposed by Labour MP Diana Johnson. The motion would remove most legal restrictions on abortion in England and Wales, and impose a similar regime on Northern Ireland, which currently maintains strong right-to-life laws.
MPs voted by 208 to 123 to approve the Ten Minute Rule Motion proposed by Labour MP Diana Johnson. The motion would remove most legal restrictions on abortion in England and Wales, and impose a similar regime on Northern Ireland, which currently maintains strong right-to-life laws.
Are you ready for when the Lord shall come?
Are You Ready For When the Lord Shall Come? - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: In the Gospel for Tuesday of the 29th Week, Jesus reminds us to be ready, but what does that mean? Let’s consider four ways that the Lord describes. First, Jesus says, “gird your loins,” which is the ancient equivalent of saying, “roll up your sleeves.” The Lord has a work for us and wants us to get to it. He’s not thinking of a worldly career, but rather things such as raising children in godly fear, pursuing justice, and growing in holiness. The Lord wants us to work in His Kingdom.
Priest and key witness in nun’s rape case against Indian bishop found dead
Priest and key witness in nun rape case found dead: A priest who had been a key witness in the charge of rape against Bishop Franco Mulakkal of Jullundur died Monday, prompting a police investigation into his death.
Monday, October 22, 2018
My Evangelical teachers always warned me against Mary — yet somehow, without meaning to, they trained me to love her
Mary Among Evangelicals by Matthew Schmitz | Articles | First ThingsSCHMITZ: When I was three years old, I asked my pregnant mother whether Jesus could come into me as my baby brother had come into her. It was my inept way of saying that I wanted to accept Jesus into my heart as my personal lord and savior, an idea to which my Evangelical church had already introduced me. But it was also my first moment, however unwitting, of Marian piety. In that moment I took Mary as my model in faith. I asked to become a God-bearer as she was, to be made pregnant with Christ.
Ukrainian Archbishop Sviatoslav Shevchuk has a message for his Western counterparts about married priests: “Not so fast!”
Eastern prelate urges 'prudence' on married priestsALLEN: So far there really haven’t been any great political battles during this month’s Synod of Bishops on young people, but when another group of 300 bishops or so gathers in Rome next year for a summit on the Amazonian region, some forecasts call for tension around a long-standing flashpoint in Catholic debate: Married priests.
Priest shortages are often terribly acute in parts of the Amazon, and some bishops from the area have long favored the idea of ordaining the viri probati, meaning tested married men.
Priest shortages are often terribly acute in parts of the Amazon, and some bishops from the area have long favored the idea of ordaining the viri probati, meaning tested married men.
5 writers at the National Review weigh in on Pope Francis and the crisis
Pope Francis's Catholic Church Crisis -- National Review Symposium | National Review: In the most recent issue of National Review, NR senior writer Michael Brendan Dougherty wrote, “The Francis pontificate was to be an era of mercy for sinners at the peripheries and accountability for malefactors at the Vatican. Instead, almost the opposite has taken place.” According to Dougherty, the Roman Catholic Church’s “twin scandals” — the calamitous handling and coverup of clerical sexual abuse, and the the pope’s efforts to foment a “Theological Revolution” on sex, marriage, and the sacraments — have exposed deep divisions within the Church. In this time of turmoil, the editors of National Review asked five eminent thinkers to weigh in.
Is the Vatican’s agreement with China a deal with the devil?
Is the Vatican’s agreement with China a deal with the devil? - The Globe and MailMULRONEY: Catholics inside China, and beyond, are waiting anxiously as the details of a recent agreement between the Vatican and Beijing slowly emerge. These discussions, which are about the mutual recognition of Chinese bishops, are important because they could close a rupture that has, since the 1950s, separated the underground Catholic Church, which has remained faithful to Rome, and a “patriotic” church overseen by China’s Communist Party.
The Vatican has long sought to close this painful divide. While that largely reflects a desire to bring reconciliation to China’s Catholic community, it’s also about ensuring the long-term viability of Chinese Catholicism itself. The leadership of bishops, an essential component of the institutional church, has a public as well as a spiritual dimension, something that requires at least some official sanction. In the absence of an agreed context within which the church can operate, its growth in China has stagnated. In contrast, thanks to the rapid emergence of unofficial “house churches,” which are typically small enough to operate under the official radar, Protestantism is flourishing in China.
The Vatican has long sought to close this painful divide. While that largely reflects a desire to bring reconciliation to China’s Catholic community, it’s also about ensuring the long-term viability of Chinese Catholicism itself. The leadership of bishops, an essential component of the institutional church, has a public as well as a spiritual dimension, something that requires at least some official sanction. In the absence of an agreed context within which the church can operate, its growth in China has stagnated. In contrast, thanks to the rapid emergence of unofficial “house churches,” which are typically small enough to operate under the official radar, Protestantism is flourishing in China.
This is the front line of Saudi Arabia’s invisible war in Yemen
This Is the Front Line of Saudi Arabia’s Invisible War - The New York Times: A battlewagon roars through the gates of a beach villa on Yemen’s Red Sea coast, a luxury property with a 20-foot chandelier and indoor pool, now repurposed as a busy field hospital. Young fighters, drenched in the sweat of the battle, leap from the pickup and hoist a wounded comrade, blood streaming down his face, into the emergency ward.
Trump administration moves to define “gender” as “male or female, unchangeable,” based on biology and genetics
‘Transgender’ Could Be Defined Out of Existence Under Trump Administration - The New York Times: The Trump administration is considering narrowly defining gender as a biological, immutable condition determined by genitalia at birth, the most drastic move yet in a governmentwide effort to roll back recognition and protections of transgender people under federal civil rights law.
A series of decisions by the Obama administration loosened the legal concept of gender in federal programs, including in education and health care, recognizing gender largely as an individual’s choice and not determined by the sex assigned at birth. The policy prompted fights over bathrooms, dormitories, single-sex programs and other arenas where gender was once seen as a simple concept. Conservatives, especially evangelical Christians, were incensed.
A series of decisions by the Obama administration loosened the legal concept of gender in federal programs, including in education and health care, recognizing gender largely as an individual’s choice and not determined by the sex assigned at birth. The policy prompted fights over bathrooms, dormitories, single-sex programs and other arenas where gender was once seen as a simple concept. Conservatives, especially evangelical Christians, were incensed.
Sunday, October 21, 2018
Reflections on Archbishop Viganò’s courageous third letter
Reflections on Archbishop Viganò’s Courageous Third LetterPOPE: As I finished reading Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganò’s third letter, I had an immediate sense that I had just read something that is destined to be one of the great pastoral and literary moments of the Church’s history. There was an air of greatness about it that I cannot fully describe. I was stunned at its soteriological quality — at its stirring and yet stark reminder of our own judgment day. In effect he reminded us that this is more than a quibble over terminology or who wins on this or that point, or who is respectful enough of whom. This is about the salvation of souls, including our own. We almost never hear bishops or priests speak like this today!
One dead in armed assault on house of Cardinal Norberto Rivera in Mexico City
One dead in armed assault on house of retired Mexican cardinal | Reuters: A shootout outside the home of a Roman Catholic cardinal in Mexico City left one bodyguard dead on Sunday, city authorities said, but no motive for the armed assault on the residence was provided.
Pope’s Sunday Angelus: ‘God chooses an uncomfortable throne, the Cross, from which he reigns’
Christ's throne is the cross, Pope Francis says: The throne of Jesus Christ is the cross upon which he gave his life for the world, and those who wish to follow him must be prepared to sacrifice everything, Pope Francis said Sunday.
“The message of the Teacher is clear: while the great of the earth build themselves ‘thrones’ for their own power, God chooses an uncomfortable throne, the cross, from which he reigns giving his life,” the pope said Oct. 21.
“The message of the Teacher is clear: while the great of the earth build themselves ‘thrones’ for their own power, God chooses an uncomfortable throne, the cross, from which he reigns giving his life,” the pope said Oct. 21.
How to tell if you’ve really encountered a ghost
How to tell if you have encountered a ghost --AleteiaKOSLOSKI: Often we will hear from family or friends that they saw a “ghost,” or we may have even seen something supernatural. Was it truly a ghost? Here are some initial guidelines for discernment. Feelings of peace and joy, according to St. Ignatius of Loyola, are signs of God and his angels, Loyola wrote, “it is proper to God and to his Angels in their movements to give true spiritual gladness and joy, taking away all sadness and disturbance which the enemy brings on.” This could mean the "ghost" was in fact an angel, the work of God, or even the soul of a saint in Heaven. These three types of spirits want to bring the peace of God into your soul.
Synod stirred by tales of contemporary anti-Christian persecution
Synod stirred by tales of contemporary anti-Christian persecutionALLEN: Virtually everyone taking part in the Oct. 3-28 Synod of Bishops on young people has said that the presence of more than 30 young delegates inside the hall has altered the chemistry - it’s looser, more informal, more pumped-up, and above all, more raucous.
The young people, participants say, let you know immediately which speeches they like by cheering, applauding, even hooting like a studio audience at the filming of an American reality TV show.
Back in the day, such behavior would have been frowned upon, if not actively discouraged. In previous synods, officials have sometimes reprimanded participants for applause, considering it indecorous and unfair to those who don’t get it. This time around, however, such restraint has basically gone out the window, making audience reaction one useful gauge for which messages really resonate.
The young people, participants say, let you know immediately which speeches they like by cheering, applauding, even hooting like a studio audience at the filming of an American reality TV show.
Back in the day, such behavior would have been frowned upon, if not actively discouraged. In previous synods, officials have sometimes reprimanded participants for applause, considering it indecorous and unfair to those who don’t get it. This time around, however, such restraint has basically gone out the window, making audience reaction one useful gauge for which messages really resonate.
No cross, no crown: A homily for the the 29th Sunday of the Year
No Cross, No Crown - A Homily for the the 29th Sunday of the Year - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: In the Sunday Gospel, the Lord Jesus speaks of crosses and crowns. The apostles have only crowns in mind, but Jesus knows the price of the crown. So, He must teach them and us that crowns—the things we value most—come only through the cross.
It may help to review the context of this Gospel. Jesus is making His final journey to Jerusalem. He is on his way to the cross and has already announced this to His disciples on two occasions. Throughout Jesus’ final journey, the apostles prove unwilling and/or incapable of grasping what He is trying to teach them.
It may help to review the context of this Gospel. Jesus is making His final journey to Jerusalem. He is on his way to the cross and has already announced this to His disciples on two occasions. Throughout Jesus’ final journey, the apostles prove unwilling and/or incapable of grasping what He is trying to teach them.
Saturday, October 20, 2018
Why February 21 is such a curious date for the Vatican meeting on sex abuse
February 21: An Intriguing Date for a Meeting of Bishops (about clerical sexual abuse) – Fr. Regis ScanlonSCANLON: The Bishops Conferences of the World will gather to meet with Pope Francis about clergy sexual abuse on Feb. 21, 2019, the feast day of St. Peter Damian, Doctor of the Church. It is an intriguing date to begin this discussion because 1,000 years ago, St. Peter Damian also faced the widespread reality of rampant sexual sins among clergy and monks spilling over into the culture and poisoning it. In a moment we will examine how the Church, in St. Peter Damian’s times, dealt with this grave offense against God.
10 signs you might be a Catholic convert
10 Signs You Might Be A Catholic Convert - The Coming Home NetworkSWAIM: As anyone who’s entered the Catholic Church as an adult can attest, there’s a level of culture shock that comes along with conversion that’s hard to explain to a “cradle Catholic.” And while converts may, over time, learn all the devotions, vocabulary, and quirky customs that can go along with Catholic culture, some of us will always speak with a slight Protestant accent.
“We are spiritually anemic”: Why abandoning sacramental life is the root of all problems in the Church
"We Are Spiritually Anemic": Why Abandoning Sacramental Life is the Root of All Problems in the Church | ChurchPOP: Every single problem the Church has all flows from one central issue:
Our spiritual health is lacking.
In most places in the western world, Mass attendance is well below 40 percent. In other words: 60 percent willfully starve themselves spiritually.
An even greater number allow this to fester as the use of the Sacrament of Reconciliation is widely disregarded and abandoned.
The overwhelming majority of Catholics in the United States and in the West have abandoned the sacramental life of the Church.
That sickness infects everything: our finances, vocations, outreach, quality of clergy, and institutions. It empties our convents, monasteries, seminaries, and closes our parishes.
Our spiritual health is lacking.
In most places in the western world, Mass attendance is well below 40 percent. In other words: 60 percent willfully starve themselves spiritually.
An even greater number allow this to fester as the use of the Sacrament of Reconciliation is widely disregarded and abandoned.
The overwhelming majority of Catholics in the United States and in the West have abandoned the sacramental life of the Church.
That sickness infects everything: our finances, vocations, outreach, quality of clergy, and institutions. It empties our convents, monasteries, seminaries, and closes our parishes.
Moscow's veto on Catholic/Orthodox dialogue may be slipping away
Moscow's veto on Catholic/Orthodox dialogue may be slipping awayALLEN: Somewhere back in the early 2000s, I found myself in Russia and ran into a journalist who ran a Catholic newspaper. It turned out I was catching him at a bad moment, because the paper essentially was being shut down.
The problem wasn’t circulation numbers or advertising income, both of which were going well. Instead, the problem - and, to be clear, I am not making this up - was that people were reading it.
As surreal as it sounds, word had come down from the papal ambassador in Russia that as far as the Vatican was concerned, if a publication in Russia was going to offer a provocative and influential Christian take on current events, then it ought to be sponsored by the Orthodox Patriarchate of Moscow. Too much visibility for a Catholic paper, they judged, could upset the delicate ecumenical relations between the two churches.
The problem wasn’t circulation numbers or advertising income, both of which were going well. Instead, the problem - and, to be clear, I am not making this up - was that people were reading it.
As surreal as it sounds, word had come down from the papal ambassador in Russia that as far as the Vatican was concerned, if a publication in Russia was going to offer a provocative and influential Christian take on current events, then it ought to be sponsored by the Orthodox Patriarchate of Moscow. Too much visibility for a Catholic paper, they judged, could upset the delicate ecumenical relations between the two churches.
What’s the problem with pot?
New Advent: What’s the problem with pot?STEFANICK: When you smoke weed, are you living life to the full?
Barcelona’s Sagrada Família Basilica to pay $41 million after going without a building permit since 1882
Barcelona's Sagrada Familia agrees deal over lack of licence - BBC News: The Sagrada Familia basilica in Barcelona, one of Spain's most famous tourist sites, has agreed to pay $41m (£31m) to the city authorities after going without a building permit for more than 130 years.
The spectacular church designed by architect Antoni Gaudí, is a Unesco world heritage site and still under construction.
Work began on the building in 1882.
Barcelona's mayor said the deal was a historic agreement.
The spectacular church designed by architect Antoni Gaudí, is a Unesco world heritage site and still under construction.
Work began on the building in 1882.
Barcelona's mayor said the deal was a historic agreement.
McCarrick scandal spotlights bishops’ appointment process
McCarrick Scandal Spotlights Bishops’ Appointment ProcessDESMOND: When Cardinal Daniel DiNardo of Galveston-Houston, the president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, called for a “prompt and thorough examination” of questions posed by the scandal engulfing Archbishop Theodore McCarrick, he spoke on behalf of a lot of Catholics when he singled out one unresolved mystery. Why, asked Cardinal DiNardo, did Archbishop McCarrick’s misconduct fail to impede “his advancement” from auxiliary bishop to bishop and from archbishop to cardinal?
Friday, October 19, 2018
Trump administration to strengthen religious liberty rules on birth control, homosexuality
Trump administration to strengthen religious liberty rules on birth control, LGBTQ discrimination: The Trump administration is planning to double down on “religious liberty” protections that could affect birth control access and allow for LGBTQ employment discrimination.
Planned rules would strengthen or expand existing religious liberty protections for employers to deny health care access or make hiring decisions based on their religious beliefs and “moral convictions.”
Planned rules would strengthen or expand existing religious liberty protections for employers to deny health care access or make hiring decisions based on their religious beliefs and “moral convictions.”
From regular parish to Amazing Parish: Pat Lencioni, John Martin and team are making it happen
From regular parish to Amazing Parish: This team is making it happen, and for free: In theory all parishes are more or less equal. Yet inevitably in any city it is easy to find a parish (or a few) that seems to attract faithful from all over the place.
What is it that draws people to a parish?
A Denver-based organization has the answer and the tools to help pastors turn their parishes into thriving communities.
What is it that draws people to a parish?
A Denver-based organization has the answer and the tools to help pastors turn their parishes into thriving communities.
Archbishop Viganò responds to Cardinal Ouellet’s letter with new testimony
Archbishop Vigano Responds to Cardinal Ouellet's Letter With New TestimonyPENTIN: Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganò issued a third testimony today, the feast of the North American Martyrs, which we publish in full below, with a link below it to Cardinal Ouellet's letter of Oct. 7. He begins by saying, To bear witness to the corruption in the hierarchy of the Catholic Church was a painful decision for me, and remains so. But I am an old man, one who fears Him who can cast body and soul into hell.
Obama administration dodged state laws to get minors illegal abortions, court papers reveal
Court: Obama Admin Dodged State Laws To Get Illegal Minors Abortions: Last week, a federal judge in California dismissed a lawsuit the American Civil Liberties Union had filed in 2016 challenging the government’s award of grants to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops to provide services to unaccompanied minor illegal aliens and trafficking victims. In the lawsuit, the ACLU argued the grants violated the Establishment Clause because the Department of Health and Human Services allowed the Catholic organization (and its sub-grantees) to deny girls and women in their care contraceptives and abortion.
‘Gosnell’ strikes nerve with moviegoers despite shoestring budget, lack of media attention
'Gosnell' movie a box office success despite small budget - Washington Times: It was a movie destined for failure — relying on crowdfunding for its shoestring budget, garnering little to no attention among liberal media outlets and opening in only 673 theaters around the country.
Still, “Gosnell: The Trial of America’s Biggest Serial Killer” succeeded in its opening weekend at the box office, becoming the No. 12 film release last week. Its $1.16 million in ticket sales placed the film just behind “A Simple Favor” ($1.3 million) and just ahead of “Crazy Rich Asians” ($1 million), according to the Box Office Mojo website.
Still, “Gosnell: The Trial of America’s Biggest Serial Killer” succeeded in its opening weekend at the box office, becoming the No. 12 film release last week. Its $1.16 million in ticket sales placed the film just behind “A Simple Favor” ($1.3 million) and just ahead of “Crazy Rich Asians” ($1 million), according to the Box Office Mojo website.
Will Pakistan execute a 53-year-old woman for being Christian? (WSJ paywall)
Will Pakistan Execute a 53-Year-Old Woman for Being Christian? - WSJ: Does Pakistan’s Supreme Court have the courage to free Asia Bibi, an illiterate 53-year-old Christian woman on death row since 2010 for “blasphemy,” while thousands of Islamic extremists across the country bay for her blood?
If the court releases Ms. Bibi, the best-known victim of a cruel blasphemy law often used to target religious minorities, it will represent a rare victory in the Islamic republic for compassion over religious passion. Should the judges uphold the death sentence against her, it will mark another victory for Pakistan’s strident antiblasphemy agitators and another setback for both non-Muslims and moderate Muslims.
If the court releases Ms. Bibi, the best-known victim of a cruel blasphemy law often used to target religious minorities, it will represent a rare victory in the Islamic republic for compassion over religious passion. Should the judges uphold the death sentence against her, it will mark another victory for Pakistan’s strident antiblasphemy agitators and another setback for both non-Muslims and moderate Muslims.
Bitter news with roots 1,000 years old: Russian Orthodox Church cuts ties with Bartholomew
Bitter news with roots 1,000 years old: Russian Orthodox Church cuts Istanbul ties — GetReligionMATTINGLY: Anyone who has studied the history of Orthodox Christianity knows the details of this story, as well as arguments about its signifigance.
As the first Christian millennium was drawing to a close, something big happened among the East Slavic and Finnic tribes of Europe. As always, the change involved economics, culture, military might and, last but not least, religion.
As the first Christian millennium was drawing to a close, something big happened among the East Slavic and Finnic tribes of Europe. As always, the change involved economics, culture, military might and, last but not least, religion.
‘I believe the Lord wants a change in the Church’: The Pope’s private dialogue with the Jesuits in the Baltics
LA CIVILTA CATTOLICA – 'I believe the Lord wants a change in the Church’: A private dialogue with the Jesuits in the Baltics: The pope enters the room of the Nunciature and greets the Jesuits one by one, starting with the provincial, Fr. Vidmantas Šimkūna. In all, 28 Jesuits are present: 22 from the province of Lithuania and Latvia, two from the United States with close links to Lithuania, and four Jesuit bishops: Lionginas Virbalas, Archbishop of Kaunas; his predecessor Sigitas Tamkevičius who had been imprisoned by the KGB; Jonas Boruta, bishop emeritus of Telšiai; and Joseph Werth, bishop of Novosibirsk, in Russia, who did his novitiate in Lithuania. The pope speaks in Italian and his words are translated into Lithuanian by Archbishop Virbalas.
Thursday, October 18, 2018
The Bosnians who speak medieval Spanish
BBC - Travel - The Bosnians who speak medieval Spanish: On our way to Sarajevo's Ashkenazi Synagogue for the Friday evening Shabbat (Sabbath) service, my friend Paula Goldman and I walked down cobblestone streets through the Baščaršija, the old Ottoman area of the city, passing mosques, shops and a madrasa (Islamic school). It was the year 2000, and the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina still bore the scars of the Balkans War. A Nato tank rolled by as we crossed the Miljacka river.
Federal agents serve subpoenas to Pennsylvania Catholic dioceses
Federal Agents Serve Subpoenas to Pennsylvania Catholic Dioceses: The U.S. Department of Justice has served subpoenas to several dioceses in the state of Pennsylvania, in what is believed to be a statewide move by federal authorities to investigate sexual abuse of minors by Catholic clergy.
Chanceries across the Commonwealth were served with requests for documentation and files Oct. 18.
While Pennsylvania diocesan officials have not commented on the scope of the materials subpoenaed, a senior Church official told CNA the investigation concerns the federal crimes of transporting minors across state lines to abuse them, and the production or distribution of illegal pornography, including electronically.
Chanceries across the Commonwealth were served with requests for documentation and files Oct. 18.
While Pennsylvania diocesan officials have not commented on the scope of the materials subpoenaed, a senior Church official told CNA the investigation concerns the federal crimes of transporting minors across state lines to abuse them, and the production or distribution of illegal pornography, including electronically.
What if the perfect happiness of Heaven is the End?
What If Heaven is the End? - Seton MagazineCLARK: When my son Athanasius was eight years old, his batting average for the baseball season was over .900. To be more specific for you baseball neophytes, he made a total of one out in an entire season of batting. And so, for a few years, he and I both dreamed of the major leagues in his future.
On the way to baseball practice one day, we passed a trash truck where Athan saw men grab the metal cans and empty the contents into the truck. I told Athan that while their job was not glamorous, it was an important job; moreover, as the popes have written so often, all human work has dignity. And I told Athan, “I would be much happier if you grew up to be a Catholic trash collector than a major league baseball player who has lost his Catholic Faith. And it’s not even close.” Athan agreed.
On the way to baseball practice one day, we passed a trash truck where Athan saw men grab the metal cans and empty the contents into the truck. I told Athan that while their job was not glamorous, it was an important job; moreover, as the popes have written so often, all human work has dignity. And I told Athan, “I would be much happier if you grew up to be a Catholic trash collector than a major league baseball player who has lost his Catholic Faith. And it’s not even close.” Athan agreed.
Keep working for the Kingdom despite human failures
Working for the Kingdom Despite Human Failures - Community in Mission : Community in MissionPOPE: My father had an expression: “Charlie, people disappoint.” It was his way of saying that even people we think irreproachable, godly, and saintly can let us down, either with sin or simply by being unable to help us in key moments. Something of that comes through in the words of St. Paul from today’s first reading. Here were people that St. Paul had thought friends and champions of the gospel, but now some have left him, some have failed to defend him, and still others are just unavailable.
In the East there is a rupture between Kirill and Bartholomew — and the Pope sides more with Kirill
In the East There Is Rupture between Kirill and Bartholomew. And the Pope Sides More with the Former - Settimo Cielo - Blog - L’EspressoMAGISTER: On the military terrain, the conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues at low intensity. But on the religious terrain, the clash has reached its peak. On October 15, the patriarchate of Moscow “and all Rus” broke off Eucharistic communion with the ecumenical patriarch of Constantinople, led respectively by patriarchs Kirill and Bartholomew.
That means that the sacred ministers of the Russian Orthodox Church will no longer celebrate any liturgies together with those of the patriarchate of Constantinople - to which Moscow systematically refuses to attribute the qualification of “ecumenical” - and even the ordinary Russian faithful will have to abstain from participating in the sacraments administered in the churches of the Byzantine patriarchate.
That means that the sacred ministers of the Russian Orthodox Church will no longer celebrate any liturgies together with those of the patriarchate of Constantinople - to which Moscow systematically refuses to attribute the qualification of “ecumenical” - and even the ordinary Russian faithful will have to abstain from participating in the sacraments administered in the churches of the Byzantine patriarchate.
29th Sunday of Ordinary Time — His life as a ransom for many
The Sacred Page: His Life as a Ransom for Many: 29th Sunday of OTBERGSMA: The First Reading for this Lord’s Day is personally very significant to me, because it caused me to be disturbed as a young man, and even contributed to a bout of depression I had. When I was in college, a group of Messianic (Christian) Jewish singers called “The Liberated Wailing Wall” came to my home church to put on a concert. One of their numbers was a setting of Isaiah 53 adapted for choir. They got to verse 10 and belted out in a very catchy way, “It was the will of the Father to crush him!” Musically, it made a great impact, but the line stuck with me and nagged me for years.
Feds open new clergy abuse probe in Pennsylvania
APNewsBreak: Feds open clergy abuse probe in Pennsylvania: The U.S. Justice Department has opened an investigation of child sexual abuse inside the Roman Catholic Church in Pennsylvania, using subpoenas to demand confidential files and testimony from church leaders, according to two people familiar with the probe.
The subpoenas, served last week, follow a scathing state grand jury report over the summer that found that 301 “predator priests” in Pennsylvania had molested more than 1,000 children over several decades and that church leaders had covered up for the offenders.
The subpoenas, served last week, follow a scathing state grand jury report over the summer that found that 301 “predator priests” in Pennsylvania had molested more than 1,000 children over several decades and that church leaders had covered up for the offenders.
Think professors are liberal? Try school administrators...
Opinion | Think Professors Are Liberal? Try School Administrators - The New York Times: I received a disconcerting email this year from a senior staff member in the Office of Diversity and Campus Engagement at Sarah Lawrence College, where I teach. The email was soliciting ideas from the Sarah Lawrence community for a conference, open to all of us, titled “Our Liberation Summit.” The conference would touch on such progressive topics as liberation spaces on campus, Black Lives Matter and justice for women as well as for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual and allied people.
Trump aide ‘disagrees’ with Iraqi cardinal over U.S. help for Christians
Trump aide 'disagrees' with Iraqi cardinal over US help for ChristiansALLEN: After an Iraqi cardinal said Tuesday that the U.S. government has “done nothing” to aid beleaguered Christians in his country, a Trump administration official on Wednesday insisted that “the U.S. is helping a tremendous amount, by any measure.”
“We have mobilized a massive amount of resources,” said Mark Green, Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development, one day after the American State Department released data showing $178 million has been allocated as aid to Iraq’s Christians.
“We have mobilized a massive amount of resources,” said Mark Green, Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development, one day after the American State Department released data showing $178 million has been allocated as aid to Iraq’s Christians.
Few errors have been condemned more often, more strongly, by more popes, for more serious reasons, than socialism
Socialism Has Been Condemned For 20 CenturiesCLARK: Recently in America magazine, there appeared an article titled, “Yes, democratic socialism is compatible with Catholic social teaching.” While it may be exasperating to see pro-socialism columns like these appear again and again, it’s not surprising. As it turns out, the core philosophy we now call “socialism” has been one of the most persistent errors in Church history.
Want to address priest sexual abuse? The Catholic Church needs to overhaul its seminaries...
Want to address priest sexual abuse? The Catholic Church needs to overhaul its seminaries. - The Washington PostBERG: Although clergy sexual abuse scandals aren’t new, the ones that have rocked the Catholic Church this summer revolved around a group seldom focused on before: seminarians. The sexual harassment and abuse of seminarians, and the response of seminary leaders, have been at the center of the case of former cardinal Theodore McCarrick, whose removal from ministry in June began months of focus on abuse.
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