Wednesday, July 31, 2019
The Vandals sack Rome — again...
The Vandals sack Rome….again – Catholic World ReportWEIGEL: An exercise in raw intellectual vandalism has been underway in Rome since July 23: what was originally known as the Pontifical John Paul II Institute for Marriage and the Family has been peremptorily but systematically stripped of its most distinguished faculty, and its core courses in fundamental moral theology have been cancelled. Concurrently, academics known to be opposed to the teaching of Humanae Vitae on the appropriate means of regulating fertility and the teaching of Veritatis Splendor on intrinsically evil acts are being appointed to teach at the reconfigured Institute, which is housed at the Pontifical Lateran University – the pope’s own institution of higher learning. Sixteen hundred nine years after the first Vandal sack of Rime, they’re at it again, although this time the chief vandal wears an archbishop’s zucchetto.
A season’s supply of spiritual weapons from St. Ignatius
A season’s supply of spiritual weapons from St. Ignatius - Angelus News - Multimedia Catholic NewsLOPEZ: If you are a Christian who goes to Mass most Sundays but see that you’re not quite living up to everything that your faith professes, how about asking yourself a couple of useful questions before the summer is over? “Do I have a thirst to imitate Christ?” “Does my heart ache to live without anything contrary to Christ in my life?” If your answers are “yes” — even just a little — St. Ignatius of Loyola might just be the saint for you. In fact, he may just be the saint for our times.
These assumptions sabotage evangelization
These Assumptions Sabotage Evangelization - Catholic Missionary Disciples - College Station, TXLEJEUNE: When someone describes themselves as being "raised Catholic", what assumptions do you make about them? Do you assume they go to Mass, pray, follow Church teachings, etc? That phrase could mean that the person is living like the next Mother Teresa. It could also mean that their grandmother was a Catholic and the family has always called themselves Catholic, even if the person you are talking to has never been to Mass. In other words, the label doesn't tell us anything except that the person (in some way) self-identifies as "raised Catholic". Everything else will need to be figured out.
The contraceptive mentality is real, but it’s probably not what you think
The contraceptive mentality is real, but it’s probably not what you think – SIMCHA FISHER: When we were in marriage preparation class many years ago, there was one evening devoted to instruction on Catholic sexuality. The teaching couple said, “You guys have heard about NFP, right?”
And we said, “Yes.”
And they said, “Whew.”
And that was pretty much it. I’m paraphrasing, but that was pretty much all we got, other than the advice to keep the lines of communication open, and to invest in gold. And that was okay with me. I thought we knew everything already anyway. We did intend to use NFP, eventually, once we had a grave enough reason. But we weren’t afraid of babies, like some people, and we certainly didn’t intend to be one of those couples who used NFP with a contraceptive mentality.
And we said, “Yes.”
And they said, “Whew.”
And that was pretty much it. I’m paraphrasing, but that was pretty much all we got, other than the advice to keep the lines of communication open, and to invest in gold. And that was okay with me. I thought we knew everything already anyway. We did intend to use NFP, eventually, once we had a grave enough reason. But we weren’t afraid of babies, like some people, and we certainly didn’t intend to be one of those couples who used NFP with a contraceptive mentality.
Father Schall, “what is,” and book clubs
Fr. Schall, "What Is," and Book Clubs ~ The Imaginative ConservativeOLSON: Fr. James Schall, as most readers here surely know, was a prolific author and a beloved professor of political philosophy, whose writings engaged with a wide range of current and timeless topics: theology, philosophy, history, controversies within the Church, controversies outside the Church, and sports.
Always sports! Once he learned, many years ago, that I was a fellow sports “nut”—he seemed to relish college football and basketball the most, while I prefer tennis and professional basketball—nearly every e-mail had a remark or question about this team, that player, the upcoming season, an approaching bowl game, and so forth.
I should, however, rewind a bit, and start at the beginning. Over two decades ago, not long after entering the Catholic Church, I read my first book by Schall, titled Another Sort of Learning (Ignatius Press, 1988). As with quite a few of Schall’s numerous books, it consists of a number of essays; in this case, they revolve around the theme of learning and education, with titles in Part 1 such as “Why Read?”, “What a Student Owes His Teacher,” and “On Teaching the Important Things,” while essays in Parts II and III focus on the supernatural destiny of man, ideology, the permanent things, devotion, and prayer.
Always sports! Once he learned, many years ago, that I was a fellow sports “nut”—he seemed to relish college football and basketball the most, while I prefer tennis and professional basketball—nearly every e-mail had a remark or question about this team, that player, the upcoming season, an approaching bowl game, and so forth.
I should, however, rewind a bit, and start at the beginning. Over two decades ago, not long after entering the Catholic Church, I read my first book by Schall, titled Another Sort of Learning (Ignatius Press, 1988). As with quite a few of Schall’s numerous books, it consists of a number of essays; in this case, they revolve around the theme of learning and education, with titles in Part 1 such as “Why Read?”, “What a Student Owes His Teacher,” and “On Teaching the Important Things,” while essays in Parts II and III focus on the supernatural destiny of man, ideology, the permanent things, devotion, and prayer.
What does ‘On Earth As It Is In Heaven’ mean?
What does ‘On Earth As It Is In Heaven’ mean? | Classical Catholic EducationLANGLEY: Punctuation can often be misleading, especially when translators are faced with punctuating a text which has no punctuation. And so when we read the Lord’s Prayer in the Gospel of Saint Matthew we are perhaps accustomed to reading the first part like this,
Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Now, of course, this is perfectly acceptable. But there is a possible mistake that is suggested by the punctuation. To which of the first three petitions does the phrase “on earth as it is in heaven” belong? The punctuation appears to include it in the third petition alone. In other words, it seems to me that many people understand the first three petitions like this...
Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Now, of course, this is perfectly acceptable. But there is a possible mistake that is suggested by the punctuation. To which of the first three petitions does the phrase “on earth as it is in heaven” belong? The punctuation appears to include it in the third petition alone. In other words, it seems to me that many people understand the first three petitions like this...
This Catholic college dropout was bedridden for 11 years. Then he invented a surgery and cured himself...
This college dropout was bedridden for 11 years. Then he invented a surgery and cured himself: Doug Lindsay was 21 and starting his senior year at Rockhurst University, a Jesuit college in Kansas City, Missouri, when his world imploded. After his first day of classes, the biology major collapsed at home on the dining room table, the room spinning around him. It was 1999. The symptoms soon became intense and untreatable. His heart would race, he felt weak and he frequently got dizzy. Lindsay could walk only about 50 feet at a time and couldn't stand for more than a few minutes.
Meet the Vatican’s revamped press office and the challenges it faces
Meet the Vatican’s revamped press office and the challenges it faces — Religion UnpluggedLISI: The Vatican press office may be second only to the White House communications department when it comes to ranking the world’s busiest public relations operation.
Like President Donald Trump, Pope Francis and the Holy See are in some serious need of daily damage control. The resurfacing of the clergy sex abuse scandal and the allegations that led to the downfall of Theodore McCarrick have been the Vatican’s biggest PR headaches over the past year.
Responsible for handling the Holy See’s messaging on the clergy scandal and a host of other issues will be a retooled press office. Much of the turmoil that has surrounded the pope and the Catholic church over the past year called for an overhaul of the Holy See’s press operation. The past two weeks has seen a flurry of announcements, including the naming of a new press office director and vice director (more on this position further down), two of the biggest jobs at the Vatican held by lay people.
Like President Donald Trump, Pope Francis and the Holy See are in some serious need of daily damage control. The resurfacing of the clergy sex abuse scandal and the allegations that led to the downfall of Theodore McCarrick have been the Vatican’s biggest PR headaches over the past year.
Responsible for handling the Holy See’s messaging on the clergy scandal and a host of other issues will be a retooled press office. Much of the turmoil that has surrounded the pope and the Catholic church over the past year called for an overhaul of the Holy See’s press operation. The past two weeks has seen a flurry of announcements, including the naming of a new press office director and vice director (more on this position further down), two of the biggest jobs at the Vatican held by lay people.
Lessons in virtue from Apollo 11
Lessons in virtue from Apollo 11 - Denver CatholicWEIGEL: The tendency to remember Project Apollo as mere technological wizardry, albeit of a very high order, should be resisted. There were great virtues involved in this remarkable adventure, and without those virtues there wouldn’t be six American flags planted on the Moon by a dozen American citizens. Whether those virtues exist in sufficient measure today is an important question to ponder on this golden anniversary.
A Church of the Poor: Readings for the 18th Sunday in Ordinary Time
The Sacred Page: A Church of the Poor: Readings for the 18th Sunday in OTBERGSMA: Texts from the Old and New Testaments remind us that human happiness is not to be found in the accumulation of material goods. Riches are fleeting and empty. We are called instead to “store up treasure in heaven, where neither rust nor moth destroy, where thieves cannot break in and steal.” In the Gospel, we continue to accompany Jesus on the “death march” to Jerusalem that is the Travel Narrative of Luke 9–19. On the way, Jesus teaches the values that we have to have to live as Christians who share with Jesus the road to the cross. No one who has decided to “deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow” Jesus can get bogged down fighting and haggling over earthly wealth, or storing it up.
Don’t be tempted by false gardens — we preach Christ crucified
Don’t Be Tempted By False Gardens — We Preach Christ CrucifiedPOPE: In reading the summary of the instrumentum laboris for the Pan-Amazon Synod, I was reminded of the fictional Shangri-La, described in James Hilton’s 1933 novel Lost Horizon. It was a term more familiar to my parents’ generation and is used to refer to a remote, beautiful, imaginary place where life approaches perfection. My father loved old movies and I remember well watching the 1937 movie of the same name as well as the 1973 remake. The story follows a small group of people who crash-land in the Himalayas and seek refuge in the nearby lamasery of Shangri-La. It was a land protected from the outside world by mountains, it didn’t even get cold there despite its location, and its residents lived incredibly long lives. It was a movie about escaping from the real world to the world that ought to be.
Fortnite gamer tells fans he was saved from abortion
Fortnite Gamer Tells Fans He Was Saved From AbortionMURPHY: As headlines came out this week showcasing 16-year-old Kyle “Bugha” Giersdorf winning $3 million playing the digitally interactive video game “Ninja Fortnite,” beating over 40 million competitors from around the world to play a six-game series on the world cup stage, gamer Richard “Ninja” Blevins shared an invaluable gift he received from his mother 28 years ago — his life!
“If you don’t know,” Blevins told the some 14 million people watching him daily on the social platform, Twitch, “I was not supposed to be born…, potentially. A lot of doctors told my mom that I had spina bifida or Down syndrome or a number of other diseases, and that I should be aborted.”
“If you don’t know,” Blevins told the some 14 million people watching him daily on the social platform, Twitch, “I was not supposed to be born…, potentially. A lot of doctors told my mom that I had spina bifida or Down syndrome or a number of other diseases, and that I should be aborted.”
Senators Introduce Bill to Stop Federally Funded Embryonic Stem Cell Research
Senators Introduce Bill to Stop Federally Funded Embryonic Stem Cell Research: Senators have introduced legislation to stop federally-funded research at the National Institutes of Health using embryonic stem cells, and instead promote stem cell research not involving the destruction or damage of human embryos.
Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the sponsor of the legislation, said that the bill, the Patients First Act, “would encourage the use of adult stem cells for medical purposes,” an “ethical and effective alternative to embryonic stem cell research.”
“Medical breakthroughs achieved via stem cell research need not come at the expense of innocent life,” Sen. Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn., a cosponsor of the bill, stated.
The Patients First Act would reverse President Barack Obama’s 2009 executive order that allowed for federally-funded research at NIH using embryonic stem cells.
Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the sponsor of the legislation, said that the bill, the Patients First Act, “would encourage the use of adult stem cells for medical purposes,” an “ethical and effective alternative to embryonic stem cell research.”
“Medical breakthroughs achieved via stem cell research need not come at the expense of innocent life,” Sen. Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn., a cosponsor of the bill, stated.
The Patients First Act would reverse President Barack Obama’s 2009 executive order that allowed for federally-funded research at NIH using embryonic stem cells.
Tuesday, July 30, 2019
Stare into the belly of the Earth with 17th-century Jesuit priest-scientist Athanasius Kircher
Stare Into the Belly of the Earth With 17th-Century Polymath Athanasius Kircher - Atlas Obscura: The pair set out after midnight, clambering up steep, rugged Mount Vesuvius in the dark. The path toward the 4,200-foot summit was rough, but Athanasius Kircher and his unnamed Italian guide kept at it. They climbed and climbed until they reached a crater.
There, they were transfixed. It was awesome in every sense of the word—tremendous, terrible, fearsome.
“I saw it all lit up by fire,” Kircher later wrote, “with an intolerable exhalation of sulfur and burning bitumen.” The smell was so unbearable that Kircher kept heaving up the contents of his stomach. And he was scared, too. With the “groaning and shaking of the dreadful mountain,” he went on, “I believed I was peering into the realm of the dead, and seeing the horrid phantasms of demons.”
There, they were transfixed. It was awesome in every sense of the word—tremendous, terrible, fearsome.
“I saw it all lit up by fire,” Kircher later wrote, “with an intolerable exhalation of sulfur and burning bitumen.” The smell was so unbearable that Kircher kept heaving up the contents of his stomach. And he was scared, too. With the “groaning and shaking of the dreadful mountain,” he went on, “I believed I was peering into the realm of the dead, and seeing the horrid phantasms of demons.”
NIH Issues New Guidelines for Funding Research on Aborted Fetal Tissue
NIH Issues New Guidelines for Funding Research on Aborted Fetal Tissue: The National Institutes of Health (NIH) have issued new guidelines with restrictions for scientists seeking federal grants to use tissue from aborted babies for research.
The NIH said in a July 26 notice that ethics advisory boards will be involved in the review of applications to use human fetal tissue (HFT) obtained from elective abortions, and will be composed of “scientists, bio-ethicists and others.”
The new NIH guidelines require grant applicants wishing to make use of the tissue from aborted babies to provide “a justification of the use of HFT, details regarding procurement and costs, and information about how the applicant/contract offeror will use HFT,” or their application will not be reviewed. This section of the grant application has a 12-page limit.
The Trump administration announced in June that it would limit funding for research using tissue from aborted babies.
The NIH said in a July 26 notice that ethics advisory boards will be involved in the review of applications to use human fetal tissue (HFT) obtained from elective abortions, and will be composed of “scientists, bio-ethicists and others.”
The new NIH guidelines require grant applicants wishing to make use of the tissue from aborted babies to provide “a justification of the use of HFT, details regarding procurement and costs, and information about how the applicant/contract offeror will use HFT,” or their application will not be reviewed. This section of the grant application has a 12-page limit.
The Trump administration announced in June that it would limit funding for research using tissue from aborted babies.
This attack on John Paul’s legacy is intellectually embarrassing
This attack on John Paul’s legacy is intellectually embarrassing | Catholic HeraldPECKNOLD: It’s no secret that marriage and family have been under heavy attack in Western culture for quite some time. Not intelligent attacks, mind you, but brutish ones that trade on crippled desires. No one has taken these attacks on our social nature more seriously than the Catholic Church.
It’s quite remarkable that despite her own serious struggles, the Church has managed to continually give aid to the embattled institutions of marriage and family. Just as the sexual revolution was roaring, Pope Paul VI dropped the bomb of Humanae Vitae. When most of the Catholic moral theologians were themselves becoming utilitarians more concerned to revise sexual ethics in dialogue with the sexual revolution than sexual reality, Pope John Paul II was hard at work: writing Familiaris Consortio in 1981, founding the Pontifical Institute for Marriage and Family in 1982, and almost single-handedly stemming the tide of proportionalism in fundamental moral theology with Veritatis Splendor in 1993.
It’s quite remarkable that despite her own serious struggles, the Church has managed to continually give aid to the embattled institutions of marriage and family. Just as the sexual revolution was roaring, Pope Paul VI dropped the bomb of Humanae Vitae. When most of the Catholic moral theologians were themselves becoming utilitarians more concerned to revise sexual ethics in dialogue with the sexual revolution than sexual reality, Pope John Paul II was hard at work: writing Familiaris Consortio in 1981, founding the Pontifical Institute for Marriage and Family in 1982, and almost single-handedly stemming the tide of proportionalism in fundamental moral theology with Veritatis Splendor in 1993.
Monday, July 29, 2019
How the sexual revolution has corrupted the professions (and what you can do about it)
How the Sexual Revolution Has Corrupted the Professions (and What You Can Do About It!)MORSE: People sometimes ask me, “Dr. Morse, how in the world do these crazy ideologies and policies keep coming at us? Why are we seeing demands for gender neutral bathrooms in public places, drag queen story hours in our libraries, and a “non-binary” option on birth certificates and driver’s licenses?”
To which I reply, these things didn’t spring up overnight out of nowhere. Many members of the college-educated professional classes are deeply committed to these ideas. Many professional societies have become corrupted by Sexual Revolutionary ideology and captured by committed ideologues. These people have been plowing this ground for a long time.
To which I reply, these things didn’t spring up overnight out of nowhere. Many members of the college-educated professional classes are deeply committed to these ideas. Many professional societies have become corrupted by Sexual Revolutionary ideology and captured by committed ideologues. These people have been plowing this ground for a long time.
Early Polish immigrants built parish churches that looked like cathedrals. See for yourself...
Churches Like Cathedrals: Polish Parishes Leave Their Mark in AmericaPRONECHEN: During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, thousands of Poles traveled 5,433 miles by land, sea and rail from their homeland in central Europe to Chicago.
They brought with them the Polish Baroque designs that made their newly built parish churches look like the cathedrals and basilicas they loved to worship in back home. Within five decades, “Chicago was the center of American Polonia,” writes Victoria Granacki in her article “The Architecture of Polish Catholic Churches in Chicago.” At the heart of it all was St. Stanislaus Kostka Church, the first parish built by Polish immigrants in the Windy City.
They brought with them the Polish Baroque designs that made their newly built parish churches look like the cathedrals and basilicas they loved to worship in back home. Within five decades, “Chicago was the center of American Polonia,” writes Victoria Granacki in her article “The Architecture of Polish Catholic Churches in Chicago.” At the heart of it all was St. Stanislaus Kostka Church, the first parish built by Polish immigrants in the Windy City.
How Archbishop Fulton Sheen’s intercession raised this mom’s baby from the dead
Mom Behind Vatican Miracle: How Abp. Fulton Sheen’s Prayers Raised Her Baby From The Dead | ChurchPOP: Bonnie Engstrom, the mother behind the miracle leading to Ven. Archbishop Fulton Sheen’s upcoming beatification, sat down with ChurchPOP English Editor Jacqueline Burkepile for an exclusive interview.
The mother of eight children explained how her now eight-year-old son James Fulton Engstrom rose from the dead after she and her husband, Travis, asked for Ven. Abp. Fulton Sheen’s intercession.
The mother of eight children explained how her now eight-year-old son James Fulton Engstrom rose from the dead after she and her husband, Travis, asked for Ven. Abp. Fulton Sheen’s intercession.
Go claim your $125 from Equifax’s data breach settlement. Right now. There’s no catch...
Go claim your $125 from Equifax’s data breach settlement.: Consider it a part of your civic duty: driving up the costs of data breaches for corporations so they have an incentive to invest more heavily in security. The payouts to individuals are part of the $575 to $700 million settlement that Equifax reached with the Federal Trade Commission, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, and 48 states.
Vatican: Remains of missing teen not found among bones
Vatican: Remains of Missing Teen Not Found Among Bones: The Vatican reported Sunday that bones discovered in previously hidden ossuaries pre-date the 20th century – and therefore cannot be the remains of a Vatican teen who went missing in the 1980s.
Hundreds of partially intact bones and thousands of bone fragments were studied by a forensic anthropologist and found to all date from before the end of the 19th century, the Holy See press office stated, adding that “this belies any connection with the painful disappearance of Emanuela Orlandi.”
Some of the remains tested may belong to Princess Sophie von Hohenlohe and Duchess Charlotte Frederica of Mecklenburg-Schwerin, who both died in the mid-19th century. Others were found to have the characteristics of bones dating from ancient times and were not tested.
Hundreds of partially intact bones and thousands of bone fragments were studied by a forensic anthropologist and found to all date from before the end of the 19th century, the Holy See press office stated, adding that “this belies any connection with the painful disappearance of Emanuela Orlandi.”
Some of the remains tested may belong to Princess Sophie von Hohenlohe and Duchess Charlotte Frederica of Mecklenburg-Schwerin, who both died in the mid-19th century. Others were found to have the characteristics of bones dating from ancient times and were not tested.
An immodest proposal for the restoration of Notre-Dame
An Immodest Proposal - Crisis MagazineRUTLER: A fad for picturesque ruins grew luxuriantly in the Romantic Revival from the end of the eighteenth century to about the mid-nineteenth, and where there were no real ruins, “follies” recreated them. Real ruins remain in a kaleidoscope of times and climes: Machu Picchu in Peru, Ayutthaya in Thailand, Stonehenge in England, Luxor in Egypt and Baalbek in Lebanon. Some were simply left unfinished out of fear of curses, as with the Ta Keo temple in Cambodia, and the Mingun Pahtodawgyi (which would have been a 500-foot-tall pagoda) in present-day Mayanmar. Work on the Hassan Tower in Morocco, begun in 1195, stopped at the death of the sultan Yacoub al Mansur.
St. Samson of Dol — A patron saint for codependents
A Patron for Codependents: St. Samson of DolBECKER: St. Samson was a big deal. Born in Wales, educated by monks, and seemingly destined for leadership, Samson was “perhaps the most important British missionary of the 6th century,” according to David Farmer, and “an excellent example of the wandering Celtic monk-bishop.” He established new abbeys, reformed older ones, preached the Gospel boldly, and ably led the flocks entrusted to him.
Although he pined for a hermit’s life in the wilderness, Samson ended his days in Dol, Brittany, where he established a monastic missionary outpost and served as an irregular episcopal ordinary. We might not be very familiar with St. Samson in the States, but his feast (July 28) is celebrated throughout the British Isles and beyond, and there are numerous European parishes named for him. A stellar saint, to be sure!
Although he pined for a hermit’s life in the wilderness, Samson ended his days in Dol, Brittany, where he established a monastic missionary outpost and served as an irregular episcopal ordinary. We might not be very familiar with St. Samson in the States, but his feast (July 28) is celebrated throughout the British Isles and beyond, and there are numerous European parishes named for him. A stellar saint, to be sure!
The latest moves at the JPII Institute mark a transition in Pope Francis’ pontificate
MondayVatican – Vatican Pope Francis, the moment of transition | MondayVaticanGAGLIARDUCCI: The publication of the new Statutes of the Pontifical Theological Institute John Paul II has marked a moment of transition in Pope Francis’ pontificate.
Elected six years ago with a mandate of reforms, Pope Francis did not make all of his moves at once. He preferred to change the top ranks only when their mandate expired, placing in the meantime trust in people outside the Roman Curia, with some exceptions.
However, Pope Francis did not just sit and wait. Most of the reforms have already been decided and are waiting to be institutionalized through a new Apostolic Constitution, the heavily-debated Praedicate Evangelium. One of these reforms deals with the Pontifical Academy for Life, that was linked to the John Paul II Institute for Studies on Marriage and Life through their Chancellor, the archbishop Vincenzo Paglia.
Elected six years ago with a mandate of reforms, Pope Francis did not make all of his moves at once. He preferred to change the top ranks only when their mandate expired, placing in the meantime trust in people outside the Roman Curia, with some exceptions.
However, Pope Francis did not just sit and wait. Most of the reforms have already been decided and are waiting to be institutionalized through a new Apostolic Constitution, the heavily-debated Praedicate Evangelium. One of these reforms deals with the Pontifical Academy for Life, that was linked to the John Paul II Institute for Studies on Marriage and Life through their Chancellor, the archbishop Vincenzo Paglia.
What the story of the Tower of Babel can teach us
Towering Pride: What the Story of the Tower of Babel Can Teach Us - Community in MissionPOPE: The story of the Tower of Babel (Genesis 11:1-9) is a memorable one. In Genesis 10, we read the genealogy of Noah’s sons and their dispersion across many different lands with many different languages. The beginning of Chapter 11 describes the scattering of Noah’s descendants and the multiplication of languages in story form. One language? The text states that the human family originally spoke a single language. Other ancient texts seem to confirm this. For example, there is a Sumerian tablet that tells the story of a time when all languages were one on the earth.
Sunday, July 28, 2019
Sunday Angelus: Pope expounds on ‘Our Father,’ appeals for shipwreck victims
VATICAN Pope on Our Father, appeal and prayer for migrant shipwreck: In today's Angelus with the pilgrims in St Peter's Square, Pope Francis explained the value of the ‘Our Father’, the prayer taught by Jesus to his disciples, which is an invitation to put oneself "directly in communication with the Father" in "a personal relationship with Him."
Right after the Marian prayer, the Pope spoke about the sinking off Libya last Thursday of a boat carrying 250 migrants from Eritrea, Palestine and Sudan.
"I heard with sorrow,” the pontiff said, “the news of the tragic shipwreck that occurred in recent days in the waters of the Mediterranean, where dozens of migrants, including women and children, lost their lives. I renew a heartfelt appeal to the international community to act promptly and decisively, to avoid the repetition of similar tragedies and to guarantee the safety and dignity of everyone."
Right after the Marian prayer, the Pope spoke about the sinking off Libya last Thursday of a boat carrying 250 migrants from Eritrea, Palestine and Sudan.
"I heard with sorrow,” the pontiff said, “the news of the tragic shipwreck that occurred in recent days in the waters of the Mediterranean, where dozens of migrants, including women and children, lost their lives. I renew a heartfelt appeal to the international community to act promptly and decisively, to avoid the repetition of similar tragedies and to guarantee the safety and dignity of everyone."
Saturday, July 27, 2019
3 teachings from Our Lord on prayer
Three Teachings from the Lord on Prayer - Community in MissionPOPE: Last week’s Gospel featured the Lord insisting that prayer was “the one thing necessary.” This week, we see the disciples’ request that the Lord teach them on prayer. In answer, the Lord gives three basic teachings or prescriptions for prayer. First, the Gospel opens in this way: Jesus was praying in a certain place, and when he had finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray just as John taught his disciples.” He said to them, “When you pray, say: Father, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread and forgive us our sins for we ourselves forgive everyone in debt to us, and do not subject us to the final test.”
We must be careful to understand that in giving us the “Our Father,” the Lord Jesus is not simply providing us with words to say. He is giving us a pattern for prayer; He is “teaching us to pray.” The disciples did not ask to be given words to say but to be taught how to pray.
We must be careful to understand that in giving us the “Our Father,” the Lord Jesus is not simply providing us with words to say. He is giving us a pattern for prayer; He is “teaching us to pray.” The disciples did not ask to be given words to say but to be taught how to pray.
Students say changes at Rome’s JPII Institute undermine its mission
Students Say Changes at Rome's JPII Institute Undermine Its MissionJDFLYNN: More than 150 students at the Pontifical John Paul II Institute in Rome have signed a letter saying that newly approved statutes will undermine the institute’s mission and identity.
“We want to express our greatest concern: the loss of the formational approach, and therefore, of the identity of the Pontifical Theological Institute John Paul II,” the students wrote in their July 24 letter, which was sent to Archbishop Vincenzo Paglia, the institute’s grand chancellor, and Monsignor Pierangelo Sequeri, its president.
“Many students have expressed their immense concern after the unexpected publication of the new statutes and the new program of studies for our new Institute, together with the sad news of the expulsion of two professors whose chairs have a central role in the formation offered by the institute," they added.
“We want to express our greatest concern: the loss of the formational approach, and therefore, of the identity of the Pontifical Theological Institute John Paul II,” the students wrote in their July 24 letter, which was sent to Archbishop Vincenzo Paglia, the institute’s grand chancellor, and Monsignor Pierangelo Sequeri, its president.
“Many students have expressed their immense concern after the unexpected publication of the new statutes and the new program of studies for our new Institute, together with the sad news of the expulsion of two professors whose chairs have a central role in the formation offered by the institute," they added.
Last Things: America’s blessings, Russia’s frisbees, Hitler’s editors, and more...
Last Things | New Oxford ReviewMILLS: As I write this, our eldest child is home from east Africa for a visit. She works for a Catholic relief agency in one of the poorest countries on the continent. It’s one of those that has never had a chance to stabilize, with all the warring factions left over after independence, and China and Western countries pillaging everything they can take. One of the blessings of her coming home is that she’s always re-impressed by the blessings we have here.
Just the local grocery store amazes her, with all it has and how cheap the food is. The drug store, with its astounding range of medicines. Much has to be imported where she lives, and food and medicine cost a lot even for Westerners. A friend of hers likes to bake but doesn’t bake very often because a half pound of butter costs about $15. When returning from home, everyone brings a second, trunk-sized suitcase, usually stuffed with food. Her friend brings bags of flour.
Just the local grocery store amazes her, with all it has and how cheap the food is. The drug store, with its astounding range of medicines. Much has to be imported where she lives, and food and medicine cost a lot even for Westerners. A friend of hers likes to bake but doesn’t bake very often because a half pound of butter costs about $15. When returning from home, everyone brings a second, trunk-sized suitcase, usually stuffed with food. Her friend brings bags of flour.
This one sentence from Tolkien's ‘Silmarillion’ will change your perspective on life
This one sentence from Tolkien's 'Silmarillion' will change your life - Voyage Comics & PublishingKOSLOSKI: This short passage from J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Silmarillion possesses such immense truth in regards to the very core of what it means to be human. In fact, this one line has the capacity to change a person’s whole outlook on life. First of all, Tolkien writes that Iluvatar [representative of God the Father] “willed that the hearts of Men should seek beyond the world and should find no rest therein.” This is reminiscent of one of Saint Augustine’s most famous quotations found in the Catechism of the Catholic Church, “for you have made us for yourself, and our heart is restless until it rests in you” (CCC 30). Here Saint Augustine describes beautifully how humans were created by God and were made to find fulfillment only in Him. Tolkien does not use the exact language, but it is hard to deny that Tolkien would not have had this passage in mind when he wrote it. The quote of Saint Augustine comes from his famous Confessions and as a devout Catholic, Tolkien would have known this work of classical literature. In the end, Tolkien comes to the same conclusion: man was not created to find ultimate happiness in the present world.
A culture that values abundance everywhere — except in fertility
A culture that values abundance everywhere but in fertility – Mama Needs CoffeeJENNYUEBBING: Having announced a pregnancy or two myself, I’ve witnessed the shifting attitude towards new life firsthand. First though, let me acknowledge my immense privilege, for not to do so would be disingenuous; Dave and I have tremendous family support, a vibrant community of friends who share our values and relate to our grocery budget woes, and a solid parish home where our kids are welcomed and treasured, no matter how loud and numerous they be.
I want so badly for everyone to have that level of support and the kind of thick, reliable community that makes being open to life not only possible, but dare I say enjoyable? To be surrounded, perhaps not at every moment, but at least emotionally and relationally surrounded, by love, acceptance, and solidarity.
I want so badly for everyone to have that level of support and the kind of thick, reliable community that makes being open to life not only possible, but dare I say enjoyable? To be surrounded, perhaps not at every moment, but at least emotionally and relationally surrounded, by love, acceptance, and solidarity.
Jaime Cardinal Ortega, Archbishop of Havana for 34 years, dies at 82
Cardinal Jaime Ortega, Archbishop of Havana for 34 years, dies at 82: Cardinal Jaime Lucas Ortega y Alamino, who served as Archbishop of Havana for more than 34 years, died Friday at the age of 82 after a months-long battle with cancer.
The Cuban cardinal oversaw the papal visits of John Paul II, Benedict XVI, and Francis to the island during his tenure, playing a principal role in the dialogue between the U.S. and Cuba brokered by Pope Francis in 2014.
The Cuban cardinal oversaw the papal visits of John Paul II, Benedict XVI, and Francis to the island during his tenure, playing a principal role in the dialogue between the U.S. and Cuba brokered by Pope Francis in 2014.
Surviving and thriving in the Demographic Disaster we face as a Church. Wherein Fr. Z rants...
Surviving and thriving in the Demographic Disaster we face as a Church. Wherein Fr. Z rants. | Fr. Z's BlogZUHLSDORF: The article I read at Crisis, to which I will soon turn my attention below, has the ring of truth. But first, some scene-setting. In these USA, we as a Church are like band of adventurers on the march towards a long-desired destination. We have swamps and storms and enemies to face at every turn. Sometimes we are forced on horribly high and perilous paths only to find tenuous bridges over chasms heading towards tunnels filled with orcs or forests with hypnotic spiders. The voyage takes its toll on our numbers.
Mercy Triumphs! (As seen in a Mercedes Benz commercial)
Mercy Triumphs! (As Seen in a Commercial) - Community in MissionPOPE: Below is an older Mercedes Benz commercial. In it, Satan promises a young man the pleasures of the world if he will just sign on the dotted line. Not only will he get a free Mercedes Benz but all the things supposedly go with it: beautiful women, fame, money, popularity, and excitement.
The man weighs paying the price of the Mercedes against entering into a partnership with the Devil and chooses the former. Do not miss the meaning of the names “Mercedes” (mercy) and “Benz” (brave). Mercy is worth more than anything else, no matter how fleetingly pleasurable; for the mercy of the Lord endures forever while the trinkets of the Devil are but for a time. In financial terms, you might say that mercy has positive leverage while the Devil’s payouts have diminishing returns. If the Devil gives you a payout, you’ll watch it diminish with each passing day, but God’s grace and mercy grow to yield an abundant harvest.
The man weighs paying the price of the Mercedes against entering into a partnership with the Devil and chooses the former. Do not miss the meaning of the names “Mercedes” (mercy) and “Benz” (brave). Mercy is worth more than anything else, no matter how fleetingly pleasurable; for the mercy of the Lord endures forever while the trinkets of the Devil are but for a time. In financial terms, you might say that mercy has positive leverage while the Devil’s payouts have diminishing returns. If the Devil gives you a payout, you’ll watch it diminish with each passing day, but God’s grace and mercy grow to yield an abundant harvest.
In Italy, even getting a pug offers a graduate lesson in Catholicism
In Italy, even getting a pug offers a graduate lesson in CatholicismALLEN: Among the many charms of Italy is that if you’re at all interested in Catholicism, just moving around here is like a graduate education in Church history.
Over the past couple of weeks, for instance, I had occasion twice to be on Italy’s Adriatic coast, in the cities of Ancona and Senigallia, both located about 200 miles north and east of Rome. The reason was to first meet, and then bring home, the newest member of the Crux family: Augustus “Gus” the Pug, a handsome and ever-charming black male pug who’ll be three months old on August 4.
He now joins Ellis the Pug, the reigning official Crux corporate mascot, in the role of dauphin. Ellis and Gus have yet to meet, but one imagines a corporate retreat sometime soon when the two can compare notes on their critically important roles.
Over the past couple of weeks, for instance, I had occasion twice to be on Italy’s Adriatic coast, in the cities of Ancona and Senigallia, both located about 200 miles north and east of Rome. The reason was to first meet, and then bring home, the newest member of the Crux family: Augustus “Gus” the Pug, a handsome and ever-charming black male pug who’ll be three months old on August 4.
He now joins Ellis the Pug, the reigning official Crux corporate mascot, in the role of dauphin. Ellis and Gus have yet to meet, but one imagines a corporate retreat sometime soon when the two can compare notes on their critically important roles.
Friday, July 26, 2019
St. Joachim, St. Anne and the Immaculate Conception
St Joachim, St Anne and the Immaculate Conception – Fr. Dwight LongeneckerLONGENECKER: St Joachim and St Anne are the parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary. We know about their life and the early life of the Blessed Virgin from an early Christian apocryphal writing called The Protoevangelium of James AKA The Gospel of James. You can read it here.
The Protoevangelium is not Scripture, but it’s one of the earliest of the Christian writings dating from the late first century to the mid second century and originating with the church in Jerusalem. While elements of the story seem legendary most of the account should be accepted as being rooted in history.
The Protoevangelium is not Scripture, but it’s one of the earliest of the Christian writings dating from the late first century to the mid second century and originating with the church in Jerusalem. While elements of the story seem legendary most of the account should be accepted as being rooted in history.
Benedict XVI pays a surprise visit to Castel Gandolfo
Benedict XVI pays a surprise visit to Castel Gandolfo: Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI left Vatican City Thursday to make a surprise visit to Castel Gandolfo.
The pope emeritus visited the Pontifical Villas July 25 for the first time in four years, and walked the garden paths where he used to pray, according to Italian media.
Benedict XVI then went to the 15th century Sanctuary of the Madonna of Tufo in Rocca di Papa for a short prayer before traveling to the town of Frascati in the Alban Hills outside of Rome.
The pope emeritus visited the Pontifical Villas July 25 for the first time in four years, and walked the garden paths where he used to pray, according to Italian media.
Benedict XVI then went to the 15th century Sanctuary of the Madonna of Tufo in Rocca di Papa for a short prayer before traveling to the town of Frascati in the Alban Hills outside of Rome.
Thursday, July 25, 2019
Europe heatwave could damage Notre-Dame cathedral, architect warns
Europe heatwave could damage Notre-Dame, architect warns: Almost four months after a fire destroyed the roof of Notre-Dame de Paris, officials are concerned that the building is still at risk of collapse. Now instead of a fire threatening the 850-year-old building, it is the record summer temperatures that may further erode the stonework.
France, and most of Europe, is in the midst of a record-setting heatwave. Temperatures reached 108.7 degrees Fahrenheit in Paris on Thursday, the highest ever recorded.
France, and most of Europe, is in the midst of a record-setting heatwave. Temperatures reached 108.7 degrees Fahrenheit in Paris on Thursday, the highest ever recorded.
In three months, 216 babies were born in 132 Indian villages. Not even one of them was a girl...
For 3 months, no girls were born in 132 Indian villages: A northern Indian district has launched an investigation into a region in which the birth rate of baby girls is in dramatic decline. Government data has revealed that among 216 babies born across 132 villages in the last three months, not even one of them was a girl.
The district administration of the Uttarkashi region has announced that it will form a task force to examine the reason why no girls have been born in the region.
The district administration of the Uttarkashi region has announced that it will form a task force to examine the reason why no girls have been born in the region.
When Jesus called my sons, I wanted to know what for...
When Jesus Called My Sons, I Wanted to Know What For | Word on FireSCALIA: You want to know why I did that? Why I went up to Jesus and dared to ask him to take care of my boys and keep them close to him, close to his authority, so they could share it?
Because they were good boys, my John and my James – cheerful, obedient – they’d do anything for Jesus and I figured he needed to see that, and to honor it with some justice.
And, if I’m being honest, I wanted to let Jesus know, too, that someone was looking out for my sons and their interests, because they were hard workers. They always had been, because a fisherman’s life is not easy, you know. The tender years burn away quickly on the water – each day to be out there in the bright sun and the stifling heat, hoping for a haul big enough to provide both for our family, and for our poor neighbors, and for market? Hmph?
Because they were good boys, my John and my James – cheerful, obedient – they’d do anything for Jesus and I figured he needed to see that, and to honor it with some justice.
And, if I’m being honest, I wanted to let Jesus know, too, that someone was looking out for my sons and their interests, because they were hard workers. They always had been, because a fisherman’s life is not easy, you know. The tender years burn away quickly on the water – each day to be out there in the bright sun and the stifling heat, hoping for a haul big enough to provide both for our family, and for our poor neighbors, and for market? Hmph?
God knows you. He wants you to be happy. And He needs you...
God Needs You | The StreamMILLS: God needs you. You who enjoy wealth beyond imagining and you who can’t find work. You who teach in an elite university and you who cleans his office at night, and you who ace his tests and you who fail them.
Or you, unable to move from the couch because you think you’ve wrecked your life. Or because other people wrecked it for you. And you brooding bitterly over those you hurt. God needs you. And you suffering because your miswired brain tells you your life sucks and you suck with it. You too. He needs you as much as he needs the rich man and the scholar. Maybe more.
The world praises those who succeed on its terms and condemns or ignores those who fail. As the Apostle Peter tells us, God doesn’t rank us that way. And the coolest thing is that He not only loves you, He needs you.
Or you, unable to move from the couch because you think you’ve wrecked your life. Or because other people wrecked it for you. And you brooding bitterly over those you hurt. God needs you. And you suffering because your miswired brain tells you your life sucks and you suck with it. You too. He needs you as much as he needs the rich man and the scholar. Maybe more.
The world praises those who succeed on its terms and condemns or ignores those who fail. As the Apostle Peter tells us, God doesn’t rank us that way. And the coolest thing is that He not only loves you, He needs you.
Yo, Los Angeles Times: Crystal Cathedral’s architecture raised all kinds of Catholic questions
Yo, Los Angeles Times: Crystal Cathedral's architecture raised all kinds of Catholic questions — GetReligionMATTINGLY: If you have ever been part of a well-researched tour of a great cathedral, then you know one thing — these sanctuaries are packed with symbolism. Almost everything in these buildings has some connection to centuries of Christian tradition.
The biggest symbol is the shape of the cathedral itself. It’s all about processions (think pilgrimages) through the cross to reach the high altar.
This brings me to the Los Angeles Times coverage of the transformation of the iconic Crystal Cathedral — an soaring version of a Protestant megachurch — into Christ Cathedral, the spiritual home of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Orange.
The biggest symbol is the shape of the cathedral itself. It’s all about processions (think pilgrimages) through the cross to reach the high altar.
This brings me to the Los Angeles Times coverage of the transformation of the iconic Crystal Cathedral — an soaring version of a Protestant megachurch — into Christ Cathedral, the spiritual home of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Orange.
Sick of hearing about scandals in the Church? You should be...
Sick of hearing about scandals in the Church? You should be. (Part I) | Catholic CultureLAWLER: I quit.
For more than 25 years now, I have been reporting and writing about scandal within the Catholic Church. Yesterday, as I wearily wrote one more article about episcopal corruption, I realized how much the topic has come to nauseate me. I can’t do it anymore.
Since the 1990s I have been digging in the muck, uncovering more and more of what Pope Benedict XVI aptly termed the “filth” in the Church—the filth that obscures the image of Christ. It hasn’t been pleasant work. It isn’t the work I would have chosen. It isn’t edifying. The daily dealing with appalling ugliness—week after week, month after month—has taken a heavy toll: on my health, on my family, on my spiritual life. In warfare, good commanders know that even the toughest troops need a break after weeks in battle. And believe me, this is—always has been—a spiritual battle.
For more than 25 years now, I have been reporting and writing about scandal within the Catholic Church. Yesterday, as I wearily wrote one more article about episcopal corruption, I realized how much the topic has come to nauseate me. I can’t do it anymore.
Since the 1990s I have been digging in the muck, uncovering more and more of what Pope Benedict XVI aptly termed the “filth” in the Church—the filth that obscures the image of Christ. It hasn’t been pleasant work. It isn’t the work I would have chosen. It isn’t edifying. The daily dealing with appalling ugliness—week after week, month after month—has taken a heavy toll: on my health, on my family, on my spiritual life. In warfare, good commanders know that even the toughest troops need a break after weeks in battle. And believe me, this is—always has been—a spiritual battle.
Sleuthing with St. James the Greater
Sleuthing with St. James the GreaterLONGENECKER: Everybody likes a good mystery, and we like to watch as the sleuth sifts the clues, eliminates false leads, tracks down the culprit and gets his man.
I enjoyed putting pieces of the puzzle together when I was writing my book The Mystery of the Magi: The Quest to Identify the Three Wise Men. It was intriguing to find scraps of evidence here, an archeological discovery or detail from an ancient text there, and see how the geography, politics and economics of the time converged to a solution.
Bible scholars go through a similar process when they attempt to date the New Testament. Modernist scholars undermine the historical reliability of the New Testament by supposing the gospels were written long after the time of Jesus and the apostles. (Go here to read more about their erroneous ideas.) They teach that the stories of Jesus were exaggerated and elaborated with later “mythical” elements borrowed from pagan culture.
I enjoyed putting pieces of the puzzle together when I was writing my book The Mystery of the Magi: The Quest to Identify the Three Wise Men. It was intriguing to find scraps of evidence here, an archeological discovery or detail from an ancient text there, and see how the geography, politics and economics of the time converged to a solution.
Bible scholars go through a similar process when they attempt to date the New Testament. Modernist scholars undermine the historical reliability of the New Testament by supposing the gospels were written long after the time of Jesus and the apostles. (Go here to read more about their erroneous ideas.) They teach that the stories of Jesus were exaggerated and elaborated with later “mythical” elements borrowed from pagan culture.
Vatican turning more benevolent eye to Medjugorje apparitions
Vatican turning more benevolent eye to Medjugorje apparitionsGIANGRAVE: For years the credibility of the Eastern European Marian pilgrimage site of Medjugorje and the miraculous happenings that allegedly occur there, have been the subject of questioning and doubt. But its continued following and devotion have pushed the Vatican into recognizing its validity.
Well, sort of.
“Medjugorje is an international reference point for prayer where extraordinary spiritual fruits can be touched by hand,” said Polish Archbishop Henryk Hoser, the Holy See’s Special Envoy to Medjugorje, in a July 22 interview with the publication of the Italian bishops, Avvenire.
Well, sort of.
“Medjugorje is an international reference point for prayer where extraordinary spiritual fruits can be touched by hand,” said Polish Archbishop Henryk Hoser, the Holy See’s Special Envoy to Medjugorje, in a July 22 interview with the publication of the Italian bishops, Avvenire.
Pope Francis names Brazilian woman as vice director of Holy See Press Office
Pope Francis Names Vice Director of Holy See Press Office: A native of Rio de Janeiro, Christiane Murray has collaborated with the General Secretariat of the Synod of Bishops Cardinal Lorenzo Baldisseri since April 2018 in preparation for the Special Synod of Bishops for the Pan-Amazonian Region Oct. 6-27
Catholics are not immune to domestic violence. Here’s how to recognize it (even when hidden under some religious pretext) and get help...
Catholics Are Not Immune to Domestic ViolenceFLOOD: With these words, Christie (not her real name) tried to explain in an interview with the Register why she stayed with her husband for so long, despite the years — and multiple kinds — of abuse he inflicted.
From the outside, Christie’s family appeared to be a normal, devout Catholic family — from their practice and knowledge of the faith to the fact that they were having lots of kids. No one would have guessed what was going on behind closed doors. Christie and the children had to be incessantly careful not to upset the father of the family, or they’d suffer emotional, verbal and sometimes physical abuse. Not even the children realized, however, how much worse it was for their mother, whose physical abuse was more intense and who also endured psychological, spiritual and sexual abuse for decades.
From the outside, Christie’s family appeared to be a normal, devout Catholic family — from their practice and knowledge of the faith to the fact that they were having lots of kids. No one would have guessed what was going on behind closed doors. Christie and the children had to be incessantly careful not to upset the father of the family, or they’d suffer emotional, verbal and sometimes physical abuse. Not even the children realized, however, how much worse it was for their mother, whose physical abuse was more intense and who also endured psychological, spiritual and sexual abuse for decades.
Wednesday, July 24, 2019
The miracles of St. Charbel Makhlouf
The Miracles of St Charbel Makhlouf – Fr. Dwight LongeneckerLONGENECKER: One of the great gifts I experienced when we returned from England to the USA was the great diversity in the American Catholic Church. I had never been a Catholic in the United States so I had to learn about the Catholic history. So I met the saints: St John Neumann, St Elizabeth Ann Seton, the Jesuit martyrs and more.
Another part of that diversity was the presence of the Eastern Rite churches. We have a Maronite congregation in Greenville and their priest, Fr Bart Leon has become a good friend. He introduced me to the Maronite liturgy and I learned about two of their modern saints-St Rafka and St Charbel Makhlouf whose feast day is today.
Another part of that diversity was the presence of the Eastern Rite churches. We have a Maronite congregation in Greenville and their priest, Fr Bart Leon has become a good friend. He introduced me to the Maronite liturgy and I learned about two of their modern saints-St Rafka and St Charbel Makhlouf whose feast day is today.
A Catholic discipleship quiz
A Catholic Discipleship Quiz - Catholic Missionary Disciples - College Station, TXLEJEUNE: Take a moment to answer these questions on Catholic discipleship. I recommend you write your answers down, before you move on to read the answers.
First, what is a disciple?
Can you be a Christian and a non-disciple of Jesus?
How does one make a disciple of Jesus? In other words, what is the way in which we distinguish a non-disciple and a disciple?
Jesus said his brother, sister, and mother were those that did what?
First, what is a disciple?
Can you be a Christian and a non-disciple of Jesus?
How does one make a disciple of Jesus? In other words, what is the way in which we distinguish a non-disciple and a disciple?
Jesus said his brother, sister, and mother were those that did what?
The book that formed me: My mother thought ‘The Lord of the Rings’ would kill time...
The Book That Formed Me: My Mother Thought The Lord of the Rings Would Kill Time | The StreamMILLS: My mother was clever. We were leaving on vacation, which involved a very long drive. And worse, several days with her sister’s family. Several long hot summer days with energetic twelve-year-old me being away from home with nothing to do, except to sit around bored and annoying. In front of her sister, whose children were much younger and playing on their own field. They’d appear angelic compared to me. My mother was not having that.
In my defense, I was twelve and there would be absolutely nothing to do.
In my defense, I was twelve and there would be absolutely nothing to do.
Why Martin Scorsese and Bruce Springsteen love Flannery O’Connor
Why Scorsese and Springsteen Love Flannery O’ConnorTURLEY: “All my work was informed by my years in Catholic school. All that redemption, damnation. ... As I got older I stopped fighting against it. Now I draw on it and enjoy it. There’s no greater well to draw on than myths of Catholicism. Everything is in there.”
The words of American musical icon: Bruce Springsteen. As reported by the Associated Press, these words were spoken in a conversation with award-winning film director, Martin Scorsese, also a Catholic, held this May before an audience in Los Angeles.
During Springsteen and Scorsese’s recent conversation, singer and filmmaker waxed lyrical on what the Catholic faith means to their creativity and its wider cultural significance, and on their joint admiration for American Catholic writer, Flannery O’Connor.
The words of American musical icon: Bruce Springsteen. As reported by the Associated Press, these words were spoken in a conversation with award-winning film director, Martin Scorsese, also a Catholic, held this May before an audience in Los Angeles.
During Springsteen and Scorsese’s recent conversation, singer and filmmaker waxed lyrical on what the Catholic faith means to their creativity and its wider cultural significance, and on their joint admiration for American Catholic writer, Flannery O’Connor.
Pray for Planned Parenthood pro-life conversions...
Pray for Planned Parenthood Pro-Life Conversions | National ReviewLOPEZ: One of the most beautiful, under-the-radar things I have seen in the passing political frenzies of the summer thus far was one doctor’s response to the upheaval at Planned Parenthood: “I am an Obgyn like you, and I just wanted to say how sorry I am for your loss.”
Dr. Monique Ruberu reached out to Dr. Leana Wen after news hit that Wen was no longer the president of Planned Parenthood. The news came not too long after Wen had an op-ed published by the Washington Post explaining that her recent miscarriage made her more committed to her Planned Parenthood work.
So Ruberu reached out to Wen with compassion: “I have lost two little ones in the past and I believe that they are in heaven and we will meet again.”
Dr. Monique Ruberu reached out to Dr. Leana Wen after news hit that Wen was no longer the president of Planned Parenthood. The news came not too long after Wen had an op-ed published by the Washington Post explaining that her recent miscarriage made her more committed to her Planned Parenthood work.
So Ruberu reached out to Wen with compassion: “I have lost two little ones in the past and I believe that they are in heaven and we will meet again.”
Only half of U.S. Catholics know Church teaching on Communion, study finds
Only half of US Catholics get Church teaching on Communion, study finds: Results from a new Pew survey show that Jews are the most knowledgeable among America’s religious communities about world religions, while only half of American Catholics know what their own Church teaches on core principles such as communion.
According to the survey, exactly 50 percent of Catholics in the United States correctly answered a question about Church teaching on transubstantiation - the belief that during Mass, the bread and wine become the actual flesh and blood of Jesus Christ.
“The other half of Catholics incorrectly say the Church teaches that the bread and wine used in Communion are just symbols of the body and blood of Christ,” and a small percentage are not sure, the study found.
According to the survey, exactly 50 percent of Catholics in the United States correctly answered a question about Church teaching on transubstantiation - the belief that during Mass, the bread and wine become the actual flesh and blood of Jesus Christ.
“The other half of Catholics incorrectly say the Church teaches that the bread and wine used in Communion are just symbols of the body and blood of Christ,” and a small percentage are not sure, the study found.
‘Positio’ Boys Town founder Father Flanagan presented at Vatican
Records On Life of Father Flanagan, Founder of Boys Town, Presented at Vatican: The cause for canonization of Servant of God Edward Flanagan, the priest who founded Nebraska's Boys Town community for orphans and other boys, advanced Monday with the presentation of a summary of records on his life.
The positio, which summarizes the records collected by the Archdiocese of Omaha, was presented to the Congregation for the Causes of Saints July 22, along with a letter of support from Archbishop George Lucas.
The positio argues that Flanagan demonstrated heroic virtue.
“It has been a privilege to offer my support for the cause of Father Edward Flanagan at each stage of this process,” Archbishop Lucas said. “I was able to share with Cardinal Becciu the encouragement offered to all of us in the Church during this challenging time by the virtuous life and work of Father Flanagan.”
The positio, which summarizes the records collected by the Archdiocese of Omaha, was presented to the Congregation for the Causes of Saints July 22, along with a letter of support from Archbishop George Lucas.
The positio argues that Flanagan demonstrated heroic virtue.
“It has been a privilege to offer my support for the cause of Father Edward Flanagan at each stage of this process,” Archbishop Lucas said. “I was able to share with Cardinal Becciu the encouragement offered to all of us in the Church during this challenging time by the virtuous life and work of Father Flanagan.”
No more excuses! No matter how long you’ve been away, go to confession. You won’t regret it...
No more excuses! Go to confessionMCTEIGUE: Remember, the work of sacramental confession is not simply having your record expunged. A merely juridical approach like that would make the sacrament seem like a visit to the prosecutor’s office in order to get some parking tickets dismissed. That is an impoverished view of the sacrament. Worse—it leaves undone and overlooked all the work that needs to be done after receiving sacramental absolution. Real conversion, true repentance worthy of the name, takes effort and determination. That’s where a good examination of conscience comes in.
You don’t need a pulpit to preach, and you don’t need a collar to announce the Good News
Why Women Don’t Need to Preach at MassHADRO: On the feast day of St. Mary Magdalene, an online debate broke out amongst Catholics about women giving homilies. This stemmed from a tweet by Jesuit priest Father James Martin who wrote, in part: “It is stupefying to me that women cannot preach at Mass.” The tweet linked to an America magazine article written by a woman who used to preach at Mass before restrictions were enforced.
The Church, according to canon law, teaches that “the diocesan bishop may never dispense from the norm, which reserves the homily to the sacred ministers.”
As a Catholic woman, albeit not standing behind a pulpit, I would still love to contribute my thoughts on the matter.
The Church, according to canon law, teaches that “the diocesan bishop may never dispense from the norm, which reserves the homily to the sacred ministers.”
As a Catholic woman, albeit not standing behind a pulpit, I would still love to contribute my thoughts on the matter.
Haggling With God: Preparing for the 17th Sunday in Ordinary Time
The Sacred Page: Haggling With God: The 17th Sunday in Ordinary TimeBERGSMA: In this Gospel we get St. Luke’s version of the “Lord’s Prayer.” Why the difference in wording with St. Matthew’s more commonly-used form? Jesus taught the disciples about prayer on many occasions, and what comes down to us as “The Lord’s prayer” is a précis or abstract of Jesus’ teaching on the subject, which may vary a little from apostle to apostle or eyewitness to eyewitness, as they remembered it. Moreover, remember that Jesus taught in Aramaic but the Gospels are given to us in Greek—that is, with our Lord’s words translated. So the Lord’s prayer comes to us in slightly different forms. The Lord himself may have taught it with variations on different occasions.
The Mass is more than a text
The Liturgy is More Than a Text - Community in MissionPOPE: One of the greatest liturgical shifts in the last sixty years has been in the area of language and the spoken word. Although the almost complete disappearance of Latin is lamentable, the use of the vernacular has arguably had some positive effects. To my mind, the augmentation of the Scriptures used has been notable and helpful. In addition, greater emphasis has been placed on preaching and preparing the clergy to be able to preach well.
The most recent debates concern a thirty-year struggle in English-speaking areas to get authentic translations of the Latin texts promulgated. The emphasis on and debate about the texts of the liturgy is necessary and has had good effects.
The most recent debates concern a thirty-year struggle in English-speaking areas to get authentic translations of the Latin texts promulgated. The emphasis on and debate about the texts of the liturgy is necessary and has had good effects.
Tuesday, July 23, 2019
Correcting Father James Martin (yet again) — this time, on why the laity can’t preach at Mass
Correcting James Martin SJ Yet Again Fr. Dwight LongeneckerLONGENECKER: It is a simple truth of Catholic ecclesiology that the ordained man is configured to Christ in a unique way. The priest is configured to Christ’s priestly ministry and the deacon with Christ’s ministry of service. Within the liturgy this unique charism is revealed through the functions set apart for the ordained. In the liturgy the priest and deacon perform the sacramental sign of Christ, priest and servant. It’s very simple. Laypeople can’t do this because they are not ordained.
Autism is NOT due to parental sin, Fr. Valanmahal
Autism Is NOT Due to Parental Sin, Fr. Valanmahal | Matthew SchneiderSCHNEIDER: I’m surprised I need to say that autism is not due to parental sin. However, a Catholic priest from India has started preaching about this publicly and I think some people might be confused. I’m going to quote a bit of Fr. Valanmahal, then show that both Church teaching and science say parental sin does not cause autism. Recently the Archbishop of Dublin forbade Fr. Dominic Valanmahal from coming to Ireland. The Irish Times covered the story and included words from a recent sermon.
Pope names Bishop Mark Brennan to replace Bransfield in Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston, West Virginia
Pope Francis Names Bishop Mark Brennan to Follow Bransfield at West Virginia Diocese: Pope Francis Tuesday named Bishop Mark Brennan the Bishop of Wheeling-Charleston, West Virginia following financial corruption and alleged sexual assault by the former bishop of the diocese Michael J. Bransfield.
Brennan, 72, is an auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of Baltimore, where he has served since his appointment in 2016.
The West Virginia episcopal appointment follows a Vatican communique July 19 stating that the Bishop emeritus of Wheeling-Charleston Michael J. Bransfield will no longer be allowed to participate in public Masses or live within his former diocese.
Bransfield is reported to have sexually harassed, assaulted, and coerced seminarians, priests, and other adults during his time as Bishop of Wheeling-Charleston. He was also found to have given large cash gifts to high-ranking Church leaders, using diocesan funds.
Brennan, 72, is an auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of Baltimore, where he has served since his appointment in 2016.
The West Virginia episcopal appointment follows a Vatican communique July 19 stating that the Bishop emeritus of Wheeling-Charleston Michael J. Bransfield will no longer be allowed to participate in public Masses or live within his former diocese.
Bransfield is reported to have sexually harassed, assaulted, and coerced seminarians, priests, and other adults during his time as Bishop of Wheeling-Charleston. He was also found to have given large cash gifts to high-ranking Church leaders, using diocesan funds.
Monday, July 22, 2019
Donatello’s unusual depiction of St. Mary Magdalene
Donatello’s Unusual Depiction of Mary Magdalene – Building Catholic CultureSTAUDT: Catholic art tends to depict Mary Magdalene’s beauty, emphasizing her as the embodiment of a conversion from worldly pleasures and the pomp of life (drawing from her debated attribution as the woman caught in adultery). The Scriptures do testify (regardless of this attribution) that she had a dramatic conversion: “And the twelve were with him, and also some women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities: Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out” (Luke 8:1-2). Luke states she was a disciple traveling with Jesus, and we, of course, know her as the great witness of love at the foot of the Cross and the first one to proclaim the Resurrection.
Gallup’s Bishop James Wall issues decree encouraging celebration of Mass ‘ad orientem’
Celebrating the Mass Ad Orientem – The Catholic Diocese of Gallup: Recently Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI released a powerful letter, in which he touched on a number of topics, including especially the sexual abuse crisis that has impacted the Church and even society as a whole. In his letter, he also addressed the Eucharist. He acknowledged, and rightfully so, that we have become too lax in our approach to the Eucharist. There were a number of reasons for this, even extreme cases when Holy Communion has been distributed to non-Catholics at weddings and other large events for the sake of “inclusion.” We know, however, that such “inclusivity” is actually quite dangerous, for it can put someone’s soul at risk in the name of not hurting feelings. Remember St. Paul: Whoever, therefore, eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of profaning the body and blood of the Lord. Let a man examine himself, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup...
Steps away from Puerto Rico’s massive protests, cathedral closes its doors in fear of violence
Steps away from Puerto Rico's massive protests, one church closes its doors in fear of violence - CNN: Down the street from La Fortaleza -- the mansion of Puerto Rico's embattled governor -- is the oldest cathedral on the island, San Juan Bautista Cathedral.
It's where many locals come to pray and find comfort amid the protests that have roiled the US territory since last week. But on Monday, the church won't offer refuge.
Its doors will be closed, as they were for most of the day Sunday for safety reasons, Father Benjamin Perez told CNN.
Last week, the church's doors were spray-painted with the words "resign dictator" and the building was damaged.
It's where many locals come to pray and find comfort amid the protests that have roiled the US territory since last week. But on Monday, the church won't offer refuge.
Its doors will be closed, as they were for most of the day Sunday for safety reasons, Father Benjamin Perez told CNN.
Last week, the church's doors were spray-painted with the words "resign dictator" and the building was damaged.
Benedict XVI offered Bergoglio position as Secretary of State in 2005, Argentine priest says
Argentine priest says Benedict wanted Bergoglio as Secretary of StateSANMARTIN: An Argentine priest who knew Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio of Buenos Aires prior to his election as Pope Francis claims that in 2005, Pope emeritus Benedict XVI offered Bergoglio the position of Secretary of State, effectively the second most important position in the Vatican after the papacy itself, but the future pontiff turned it down.
Benedict XVI reportedly wanted Bergoglio to be his Secretary of State to help him clean up the Catholic Church’s central government, known as the Roman Curia. Eight years later, Bergoglio himself was elected to the papacy, in part precisely on a mandate of curial reform.
Benedict XVI reportedly wanted Bergoglio to be his Secretary of State to help him clean up the Catholic Church’s central government, known as the Roman Curia. Eight years later, Bergoglio himself was elected to the papacy, in part precisely on a mandate of curial reform.
Plight of Iraq’s Christians continues to worsen, warns missionary priest
Missionary Priest Says Plight of Iraq’s Christians Continues to Worsen: Father Benedict Kiely has just returned from northern Iraq to ascertain the current plight facing what remains of the country’s ancient Christian community there and discover what can be done to help them.
In this July 15 interview with the Register, the founder of the charity Nasarean.org, which advocates and provides aid for persecuted Christians, says the situation has worsened in the region for Christians on the Nineveh Plain.
The new threat comes from militant Shiite Muslims rather than the Islamic State terrorist group (ISIS), he says, and while Christians border on the brink of extinction as they hunger for security, jobs and incentives to stay, the Yazidi minority continues to be the most forgotten persecuted and impoverished minority.
In this July 15 interview with the Register, the founder of the charity Nasarean.org, which advocates and provides aid for persecuted Christians, says the situation has worsened in the region for Christians on the Nineveh Plain.
The new threat comes from militant Shiite Muslims rather than the Islamic State terrorist group (ISIS), he says, and while Christians border on the brink of extinction as they hunger for security, jobs and incentives to stay, the Yazidi minority continues to be the most forgotten persecuted and impoverished minority.
Planned Parenthood’s true mission exposed by ousted CEO
Planned Parenthood’s True Mission Exposed by Ousted CEODESMOND: After years of spin and obfuscation, the unexpected firing of Dr. Leana Wen, Planned Parenthood’s CEO, exposed the real mission and priorities of the nation’s largest abortion provider.
Yesterday, a New York Times report on Wen’s ouster offered illuminating details that contradicted Planned Parenthood’s savvy public strategy, which downplayed the issue of abortion activism, and made the provision of “comprehensive health care” to low-income women the focus of its concern.
“The new board leadership has determined that the priority of Planned Parenthood moving forward is to double down on abortion rights advocacy,” Dr. Wen explained in a memo to the staff.
Yesterday, a New York Times report on Wen’s ouster offered illuminating details that contradicted Planned Parenthood’s savvy public strategy, which downplayed the issue of abortion activism, and made the provision of “comprehensive health care” to low-income women the focus of its concern.
“The new board leadership has determined that the priority of Planned Parenthood moving forward is to double down on abortion rights advocacy,” Dr. Wen explained in a memo to the staff.
The adventures of St. Mary Magdalene after Our Lord’s resurrection
The adventures of Mary Magdalene after Jesus' resurrection AleteiaKOSLOSKI: The last time we see Mary Magdalene in the Bible, Jesus says to her, “[G]o to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am going to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God'” (John 20:17).
She did exactly that and proclaimed to them, “I have seen the Lord!” After that, the rest of the Bible is silent in regards to where she went and what she did. However, there are varying traditions that give some possibilities as to where she went after Jesus’ resurrection. The medieval text known as the Golden Legend paints Mary Magdalene as a preacher. For example, it gives one story where Mary Magdalene teaches some pagans about Jesus Christ.
She did exactly that and proclaimed to them, “I have seen the Lord!” After that, the rest of the Bible is silent in regards to where she went and what she did. However, there are varying traditions that give some possibilities as to where she went after Jesus’ resurrection. The medieval text known as the Golden Legend paints Mary Magdalene as a preacher. For example, it gives one story where Mary Magdalene teaches some pagans about Jesus Christ.
Pope Francis, a new model for Vatican communication?
MondayVatican – Vatican Pope Francis, a new model for Vatican communication? | MondayVaticanGAGLIARDUCCI: The appointments of Matteo Bruni as director of the Holy See Press Office, and those of Alessandro Gisotti and Sergio Centofanti as deputy editorial directors of the Vatican Dicastery for Communications, show how the Vatican communication is evolving.
In Pastor Bonus, the apostolic constitution that regulated until now functions and tasks of the Curia offices, the Holy See Press Office was directly linked to the Secretariat of State. The information for the daily bulletins, guidance on which news to deliver, the news management guidelines, all came from the Secretariat of State. The director of the Press Office was called to shape this information and communicate it.
In Pastor Bonus, the apostolic constitution that regulated until now functions and tasks of the Curia offices, the Holy See Press Office was directly linked to the Secretariat of State. The information for the daily bulletins, guidance on which news to deliver, the news management guidelines, all came from the Secretariat of State. The director of the Press Office was called to shape this information and communicate it.
Tolerance: A brief consideration of a widely misunderstood virtue
Tolerance: A Brief Consideration of a Widely Misunderstood Virtue - Community in MissionPOPE: Tolerance is often bandied about today with a meaning far removed from its original definition. It has come to mean agreeing with or supporting what someone else is saying or doing; one is deemed tolerant to the degree that he goes along with another’s words or behavior.
However, if one supports another’s position or actions, one doesn’t need to “tolerate” it. We don’t tolerate what we love; we tolerate what we hate; we tolerate people with whom we disagree, not our kindred spirits.
However, if one supports another’s position or actions, one doesn’t need to “tolerate” it. We don’t tolerate what we love; we tolerate what we hate; we tolerate people with whom we disagree, not our kindred spirits.
Sunday, July 21, 2019
China is inflating its population data to sugarcoat its disastrous ‘family planning’ legacy...
China’s population numbers are almost certainly inflated to hide the harmful legacy of its family planning policy | South China Morning Post: China’s official demographic figures, including the now-cliched “country of 1.4 billion people”, seriously misrepresent the country’s real population landscape. The real size of China’s population could be 115 million fewer than the official number, putting China behind India in terms of population.
This massive error, equal to the combined populations of the United Kingdom and Spain, is a product of China’s rigged population statistics system, influenced by the vested interests of China’s family planning authority.
This massive error, equal to the combined populations of the United Kingdom and Spain, is a product of China’s rigged population statistics system, influenced by the vested interests of China’s family planning authority.
What can unite us Catholics?
What Can Unite Us Catholics? - The Catholic ThingESOLEN: Amidst our unfortunate and time-bound divisions as regards partisan politics, I wonder whether it is possible to come up with a set of fundamentals that all Catholics can agree upon. Here is my attempt:
1. All the tenets of the Nicene Creed are true, without reservation or equivocation. The Father is the Father, from whom all fatherhood derives as from its originating fountain. It is no mere customary name. Human fatherhood is merely analogical by comparison. The Son is the co-eternal Word “through whom all things were made.” The Holy Spirit proceeds co-eternally from the Father and the Son. The Word was incarnate of the Virgin Mary, and made man, to suffer and die for us, and for our sins, and he rose again, as all flesh will rise again.
1. All the tenets of the Nicene Creed are true, without reservation or equivocation. The Father is the Father, from whom all fatherhood derives as from its originating fountain. It is no mere customary name. Human fatherhood is merely analogical by comparison. The Son is the co-eternal Word “through whom all things were made.” The Holy Spirit proceeds co-eternally from the Father and the Son. The Word was incarnate of the Virgin Mary, and made man, to suffer and die for us, and for our sins, and he rose again, as all flesh will rise again.
Pope’s Sunday Angelus: Moon landing should inspire ‘even greater goals’
Moon Landing Should Inspire ‘Even Greater Goals,’ Pope Francis Urges: Pope Francis Sunday recalled the 50th anniversary of the moon landing, encouraging Catholics to look to that great event for inspiration to overcome injustices and mistreatment of the weak.
“Fifty years ago yesterday man set foot on the moon, realizing an extraordinary dream,” the pope said July 21. “May the memory of that great step for humanity ignite the desire to progress together towards even greater goals: more dignity for the weak, more justice among peoples, more future for our common home.”
Pope Francis referenced the July 20 anniversary of the Apollo 11 spaceflight, the first to land humans on the moon, during his weekly Angelus address in St. Peter’s Square.
“Fifty years ago yesterday man set foot on the moon, realizing an extraordinary dream,” the pope said July 21. “May the memory of that great step for humanity ignite the desire to progress together towards even greater goals: more dignity for the weak, more justice among peoples, more future for our common home.”
Pope Francis referenced the July 20 anniversary of the Apollo 11 spaceflight, the first to land humans on the moon, during his weekly Angelus address in St. Peter’s Square.
Pope Francis may just hit it off with new EU leader
Pope Francis may just hit it off with new EU leaderALLEN: For sure, German politician Ursula von der Leyen isn’t exactly taking office as the first female leader of the European Union under the best of circumstances.
To tick off just a few less-than-auspicious realities, the UK is about to name a prime minister determined to exit the EU even without a formal agreement, the new European parliament contains a record share of Euro-skeptics, and her six-year tenure as Germany’s defense minister is under a cloud due to allegations of improperly awarding bids to outside contractors.
To tick off just a few less-than-auspicious realities, the UK is about to name a prime minister determined to exit the EU even without a formal agreement, the new European parliament contains a record share of Euro-skeptics, and her six-year tenure as Germany’s defense minister is under a cloud due to allegations of improperly awarding bids to outside contractors.
Future pope once called host-turned-to-blood a ‘mark of the Lord’
Future pope once called host-turned-to-blood a 'mark of the Lord'SANMARTIN: Seventeen years ago, a priest at the Church of Santa Maria in Buenos Aires was tidying up when he discovered two small pieces of a Eucharistic host on the altar. Church rules told him exactly what to do in such a situation, and he followed them to the letter - placing the pieces of host in a chalice with water to dissolve, then putting the chalice into a tabernacle.
Such small gestures of respect for the Eucharist are common in Catholic parishes all around the world, but what followed was anything but.
One week later - on May 8, feast of Our Lady of Lujan, patroness of Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay - the priest checked the chalice. Astonished, he reported that the water had turned a deep red, like the color of blood. An “informal” analysis at the time suggested it was indeed blood, but little more was done to investigate.
Such small gestures of respect for the Eucharist are common in Catholic parishes all around the world, but what followed was anything but.
One week later - on May 8, feast of Our Lady of Lujan, patroness of Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay - the priest checked the chalice. Astonished, he reported that the water had turned a deep red, like the color of blood. An “informal” analysis at the time suggested it was indeed blood, but little more was done to investigate.
Saturday, July 20, 2019
16th Ordinary Sunday: Right now you are being hunted
WDTPRS – 16th Ordinary Sunday: Right now you are being hunted | Fr. Z's BlogZUHLSDORF: The Collect for the 16th Ordinary Sunday is not in any pre-Conciliar Missale Romanum. It has its antecedent in a 9th century manuscript. Enjoy the fine clausula (rhythmic ending).
Propitiare, Domine, famulis tuis, et clementer gratiae tuae super eos dona multiplica, ut, spe, fide et caritate ferventes, semper in mandatis tuis vigili custodia perseverent.
We have been cheated of the beauty of our Catholic worship in Latin, which is our common patrimony. These prayers, from our forebears, are our inheritance. They lay quiet in manuscripts, but, even after a vast gap of time in human reckoning, they glitter even today.
However, now that we have, far and wide, abandoned our past, slammed the door on our common treasury, switched off the light of learning, it will be more and more difficult for future generations to grasp these tightly woven ancient Latin Collects with their lovely rhythms, their clarity of thought, their force. Translation doesn’t do them justice.
Propitiare, Domine, famulis tuis, et clementer gratiae tuae super eos dona multiplica, ut, spe, fide et caritate ferventes, semper in mandatis tuis vigili custodia perseverent.
We have been cheated of the beauty of our Catholic worship in Latin, which is our common patrimony. These prayers, from our forebears, are our inheritance. They lay quiet in manuscripts, but, even after a vast gap of time in human reckoning, they glitter even today.
However, now that we have, far and wide, abandoned our past, slammed the door on our common treasury, switched off the light of learning, it will be more and more difficult for future generations to grasp these tightly woven ancient Latin Collects with their lovely rhythms, their clarity of thought, their force. Translation doesn’t do them justice.
Here is the central point of this Sunday’s Gospel
The Priority of Personal Prayer - Community in MissionPOPE: This Sunday’s Gospel is the very familiar story of Martha and Mary. Martha is the anxious worker seeking to please the Lord with a good meal and hospitality; Mary sits quietly at His feet and listens. One has come to be the image of work, the other of prayer.
Misinterpreted? In my lifetime I have heard many a sermon that interpreted this passage as a call for a proper balance between work and prayer. Some have gone on to state that we all need a little of Martha and Mary in us and that the Church needs both Marthas and Marys.
Such a conclusion seems to miss the central point of this Gospel passage. Jesus does not conclude by saying, “Martha, now go do your thing, and let Mary do hers.” Rather, He describes Mary not only as choosing the better part but also doing the “one thing necessary.” This does not amount to a call for “proper balance” but rather underscores the priority and primacy of prayer. This, it would seem, is the proper interpretation of what is being taught. Many other passages of the Scripture do set forth the need to be rich in works of charity, but this is not one of them.
Misinterpreted? In my lifetime I have heard many a sermon that interpreted this passage as a call for a proper balance between work and prayer. Some have gone on to state that we all need a little of Martha and Mary in us and that the Church needs both Marthas and Marys.
Such a conclusion seems to miss the central point of this Gospel passage. Jesus does not conclude by saying, “Martha, now go do your thing, and let Mary do hers.” Rather, He describes Mary not only as choosing the better part but also doing the “one thing necessary.” This does not amount to a call for “proper balance” but rather underscores the priority and primacy of prayer. This, it would seem, is the proper interpretation of what is being taught. Many other passages of the Scripture do set forth the need to be rich in works of charity, but this is not one of them.
One giant leap for mankind
One Giant Leap for Mankind: NEWS ITEM: The New York Times tweeted Wednesday, “The Apollo program was designed by men, for men. If we do not acknowledge the gender bias of the early space program, it becomes difficult to move past it.”
The Bible’s most politically incorrect teaching (you won’t like it)
The Bible's Most Politically Incorrect TeachingMILLS: If the Bible has a single most politically incorrect teaching, it won’t be about a sin only a few people commit. It won’t condemn something you and your friends aren’t going to do anyway. It won’t command something you would do anyway. And it definitely won’t be a sin or a commandment you can use as a weapon in the culture war.
In other words, the Bible’s most un-p.c. teaching will probably offend you as much as it offends any one else.
In other words, the Bible’s most un-p.c. teaching will probably offend you as much as it offends any one else.
What sin sends the most people to hell? The terrifying answer, revealed by Our Lady of Fatima...
What Sin Sends the Most People to Hell? The Terrifying Truth, Revealed By Our Lady of Fatima | ChurchPOP: After Our Lady of Fatima showed the three shepherd children (Lucia, Jacinta, and Francisco) a terrifying vision of Hell, Jacinta told Lucia the sin that sends the most people to Hell.
Jacinta asked her cousin, “Lucia — do you remember how our Lady’s heart, when she showed it to us, was being pierced by thorns?”
Lucia responded, “Surely, I do…It simply means that her heart is wounded by the sins of people, and she is asking them to be sorry, and to make up for their sins, so that God will not have to punish them too much. She can’t make people be good. They must themselves want to be good.”
Jacinta later revealed that according to Our Lady, “The sins which cause most souls to go to hell are the sins of the flesh,” or sins against chastity.
Jacinta asked her cousin, “Lucia — do you remember how our Lady’s heart, when she showed it to us, was being pierced by thorns?”
Lucia responded, “Surely, I do…It simply means that her heart is wounded by the sins of people, and she is asking them to be sorry, and to make up for their sins, so that God will not have to punish them too much. She can’t make people be good. They must themselves want to be good.”
Jacinta later revealed that according to Our Lady, “The sins which cause most souls to go to hell are the sins of the flesh,” or sins against chastity.
Another cutting-edge New York Times interactive — Apollo 11 play-by-play
Apollo 11: As They Shot It - The New York Times: To the Moon, One Small Step and Returning Home.
Sin on sale — but beware of the side effects
Sin on Sale - 50 Percent Off - But Beware of the Side Effects - Community in MissionPOPE: I usually like to keep things light on Friday evening when I post. And the video at the bottom of the page is something of a spoof on drug commercials, treating sin like a drug. Wait till you hear the side-effects disclaimer at the end.
I also thought today of doing a little post on the sins that cry to heaven for vengeance since I was talking to a parishioner today, who is suffering because his employer has not paid him for three weeks. The employer, a government agency says this is due to “administrative difficulties” in the bureaucracy where he works. He was angry (rightfully so) and getting desperate. I reminded him that withholding wages was a sin that cried to heaven and that God was angry with him. The rest of our conversation I’ll keep private.
I also thought today of doing a little post on the sins that cry to heaven for vengeance since I was talking to a parishioner today, who is suffering because his employer has not paid him for three weeks. The employer, a government agency says this is due to “administrative difficulties” in the bureaucracy where he works. He was angry (rightfully so) and getting desperate. I reminded him that withholding wages was a sin that cried to heaven and that God was angry with him. The rest of our conversation I’ll keep private.
Friday, July 19, 2019
When a theologian accuses his archbishop of schism...
When a theologian accuses his archbishop of schismLAWLER: Now isn’t this an interesting situation? The mandatum signifies full communion with the universal Church. Schism is a breach of communion. So should a theology professor seek to obtain the mandatum from a prelate he considers schismatic? Should the prelate grant the mandatum to a theologian who accuses him of schism? If Faggioli requests and receives the mandatum from Archbishop Chaput, does he thereby—by his own logic—join the archbishop in schism?
Vatican announces new restrictions on disgraced Bishop Michael Bransfield
Vatican Announces New Restrictions on Disgraced Bishop BransfieldROUSSELLE: Bishop Michael J. Bransfield, Bishop emeritus of Wheeling-Charleston, will no longer be allowed to participate in public Masses or live within his former diocese. He must “make personal amends” for the harm he brought to the diocese, Pope Francis announced in a communique released on Friday afternoon.
Bransfield is reported to have sexually harassed, assaulted, and coerced seminarians, priests, and other adults during his time as Bishop of Wheeling-Charleston. He was also found to have given large cash gifts to high-ranking Church leaders, using diocesan funds.
The July 19 Vatican communique, which was published Friday on the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston’s website, was sent from the Apostolic Nuncio of the United States, Archbishop Christophe Pierre.
Bransfield is reported to have sexually harassed, assaulted, and coerced seminarians, priests, and other adults during his time as Bishop of Wheeling-Charleston. He was also found to have given large cash gifts to high-ranking Church leaders, using diocesan funds.
The July 19 Vatican communique, which was published Friday on the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston’s website, was sent from the Apostolic Nuncio of the United States, Archbishop Christophe Pierre.
Villanova historian Massimo Faggioli says Chaput, Cordileone and Strickland are ‘devout schismatics’
Villanova Historian Says Chaput, Cordileone, and Strickland Are ‘Devout Schismatics’: A Church historian at Philadelphia’s Villanova University has said three U.S. bishops are “devout schismatics” who try to diminish the authority of Pope Francis.
“They are devout in the sense that they publicly display their preference for a traditionalist Church and its devotions, such as the rosary. They are schismatics because they openly promote the undermining of the bishop of Rome among the Catholic faithful,” Massimo Faggioli wrote in a July 16 essay for La Croix magazine.
Faggioli made specific mention of three U.S. bishops: Archbishop Charles Chaput of Philadelphia, Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone of San Francisco, and Bishop Joseph Strickland of Tyler, Texas.
“They are devout in the sense that they publicly display their preference for a traditionalist Church and its devotions, such as the rosary. They are schismatics because they openly promote the undermining of the bishop of Rome among the Catholic faithful,” Massimo Faggioli wrote in a July 16 essay for La Croix magazine.
Faggioli made specific mention of three U.S. bishops: Archbishop Charles Chaput of Philadelphia, Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone of San Francisco, and Bishop Joseph Strickland of Tyler, Texas.
As a pope picks a spokesman, could history repeat itself?
As a pope picks a spokesman, could history repeat itself?ALLEN: When the Vatican announced Thursday that Pope Francis had named a new spokesman, most early reaction suggested the move didn’t exactly inspire confidence about an upgrade in the role of the press office.
The pope tapped a 43-year-old Italian layman who’s worked in the press office for the last decade, and who’s known primarily for his organizational chops, his charm, and his command of languages (including a flawless British-accented English.) While those are all good qualities, it struck most observers as an option for a competent functionary rather than a genuine power broker.
The pope tapped a 43-year-old Italian layman who’s worked in the press office for the last decade, and who’s known primarily for his organizational chops, his charm, and his command of languages (including a flawless British-accented English.) While those are all good qualities, it struck most observers as an option for a competent functionary rather than a genuine power broker.
New clues hint at top-level Soviet involvement in John Paul II’s assassination attempt
The quiet hours of Leonid Brezhnev - Denver CatholicWEIGEL: On first meeting Dr. Andrzej Grajewski, you probably wouldn’t guess that this mild-mannered Polish historian is one of the world’s leading experts on the ecclesiastical Dark Side of the Cold War: the relentless communist assault on the Catholic Church. But he is, and his expertise comes primarily from years of patient combing through the Bad Guys’ secret intelligence service files. Some of those files went up the smokestack in 1989 (or are still locked down in Moscow), but many are now available to scholars. Grajewski’s recent research in that often-sordid underworld raises some interesting questions about the assassination attempt on Pope John Paul II on May 13, 1981.
Pope Francis phoned Vincent Lambert’s mom with a ‘touching’ message as her son lay dying
EXCLUSIVE: Pope Francis phoned Vincent Lambert’s mom with ‘touching’ message as son lay dying | News | LifeSite: Pope Francis called Viviane Lambert during the terrible ordeal that led to the deliberate ending of the life of her son, Vincent Lambert, who died of thirst on July 11 after nine days without food and seven without hydration.
She has just confirmed to LifeSiteNews that she received a “touching,” “paternal,” “very personal” message on her mobile phone from the Pope. She has not spoken of this to the media to date.
In an exclusive interview, the first she has given since Vincent’s death, Viviane Lambert told LifeSiteNews about her son’s sufferings, and her own sadness and feelings of “shock and anger” at having to witness Vincent’s slow and cruel killing before her own eyes.
She has just confirmed to LifeSiteNews that she received a “touching,” “paternal,” “very personal” message on her mobile phone from the Pope. She has not spoken of this to the media to date.
In an exclusive interview, the first she has given since Vincent’s death, Viviane Lambert told LifeSiteNews about her son’s sufferings, and her own sadness and feelings of “shock and anger” at having to witness Vincent’s slow and cruel killing before her own eyes.
Thursday, July 18, 2019
How did Pope Paul VI watch the Moon landing? And is there religion on the Moon?
Across the Universe: Three Lunatic Answers - Sacred Space AstronomyCONSOLMAGNO: As everyone has been told, countless times this month, July 20 – the 21st, in Rome – marks the 50th anniversary of the landing of the Apollo 11 astronauts to the Moon. Here are a few lunar topics probably not covered by most folks remembering that event. As for Pope Paul VI, world leaders were invited to address the astronauts on a world-wide television link-up, and the Pope read his greetings (in front of a TV) from the Vatican Observatory dome in Castel Gandolfo (in the gardens near the Pope's summer palace). In fact, the system of geosynchronous satellites to send TV pictures live around the world was still pretty new; those of us of a certain age can remember the Beatles introducing All You Need is Love on one of the first Europe/North America TV link-ups, in 1967.
Here’s something to help you understand the readings (and prepare your homily) for the 16th Sunday of Ordinary Time
The Sacred Page: Entertaining God: The 16th Sunday of OTBERGSMA: This Sunday, as we continue to accompany Jesus on his fateful journey to Jerusalem in the Gospel of Luke, we are confronted with a pair of Readings in which human beings host a meal for God: Abraham for the LORD in the First Reading; Martha and Mary for Jesus in the Gospel. But is it really possible for us to “do God a favor” by giving him a nice meal? We are going to discover that, while God graciously accepts our services, it’s really about what God does for us, not what we can do for him.
The victory disclosed in Christian death
Beginning to Pray: The Victory Disclosed in Christian DeathLILLES: A war has been fought in heaven for the life and dignity of each man and woman so that in death all that is good, noble and true might not be taken from us but definitively restored forever. Indeed, the powers of death and corruption have been cast down and sent away empty. The lowly and those who hunger and thirst for justice have been raised on high. The Cross of Christ witnesses to the truth about holy humanity - sinful though we are, what defines us most in the end is not our failures and short-comings, but instead the inexhaustible love of God. In the voids, inadequacies, weaknesses, doubts and questions of our hearts, the Living God mercifully has made His home and we can find Him there even when we feel completely alone and pushed beyond all our strength.
Twitter users celebrate Brazilian Priest’s attack while others strike back
Twitter Users Celebrate Brazilian Priest's Attack & Users Gloriously Strike Back | ChurchPOP: Multiple social media users celebrated the attack of celebrity Brazilian priest Fr. Marcelo Rossi, but multiple users gloriously came to the priest’s defense.
On Sunday, ChurchPOP reported that a young woman at a Brazilian youth conference pushed Fr. Marcelo Rossi off the stage. Police reportedly said the woman actually suffers from mental illness.
On Sunday, ChurchPOP reported that a young woman at a Brazilian youth conference pushed Fr. Marcelo Rossi off the stage. Police reportedly said the woman actually suffers from mental illness.
There’s a yoke to be carried in following Jesus. Make sure it’s Jesus’ yoke, not yours...
There’s a Yoke to Be Carried in Following Jesus - Make Sure It’s Jesus’ Yoke, Not Yours - Community in MissionPOPE: What is a yoke? It’s a wooden truss that makes it easier to carry a heavy load by distributing the weight across a wider part of the body or by allowing the weight to be shared by two or more people or animals. In the picture above, the woman is able to carry the heavy water more easily with the weight distributed across her shoulders rather than in her hands. The load is eased by involving more parts of the body. Yokes are also used to join two animals and help them work together in pulling a load.
What is Jesus saying? First, He is saying that He has a yoke for us. That is, He has a cross for us. Notice that Jesus is not saying that there is no yoke or cross in following Him. There is a cross that He allows, and He allows it for a reason and for a season.
What is Jesus saying? First, He is saying that He has a yoke for us. That is, He has a cross for us. Notice that Jesus is not saying that there is no yoke or cross in following Him. There is a cross that He allows, and He allows it for a reason and for a season.
Apollo 11’s giant leap began with medieval Catholic steps
Apollo 11’s Giant Leap Began With Medieval Catholic StepsDANTUONO: This Saturday, July 20, 2019, we commemorate the 50th anniversary of an enormous milestone in the journey of science. On July 20, 1969, the first human set foot on the moon, an event that was “a small step for (a) man, but a giant leap for mankind.”
This leap was made possible by the training and strengthening of a particular set of legs that belongs to mankind: science. On these legs man first learned to walk in a setting that most people today think hostile to scientific development: the Catholic Church in the Middle Ages. The legs of science are not the only legs we have; indeed, these legs are tightly bound up with our other means of perambulation: philosophy, religion, and mathematics, all of which were given new power in the context of Catholicism.
This leap was made possible by the training and strengthening of a particular set of legs that belongs to mankind: science. On these legs man first learned to walk in a setting that most people today think hostile to scientific development: the Catholic Church in the Middle Ages. The legs of science are not the only legs we have; indeed, these legs are tightly bound up with our other means of perambulation: philosophy, religion, and mathematics, all of which were given new power in the context of Catholicism.
‘The Lion King’ is the most slavish (and pointless) Disney Renaissance remake to date
SDG Reviews ‘The Lion King’GREYDANUS: There are two obvious ways to watch Jon Favreau’s The Lion King.
It can be seen, first, as a duller, plodding retread of the original 1994 Disney Renaissance landmark. But it can also be seen as a duller, plodding retread of Favreau’s own The Jungle Book, another photorealistic computer-animated talking-animal Disney remake with a leonine villain, a big stampede sequence in a gorge, and a fiery showdown.
It’s not hard to see why the Favreau nouveau Lion King pales in comparison to the original hand-drawn tale of a young lion cub who loses his father and his way before rising up to reclaim the throne.
It can be seen, first, as a duller, plodding retread of the original 1994 Disney Renaissance landmark. But it can also be seen as a duller, plodding retread of Favreau’s own The Jungle Book, another photorealistic computer-animated talking-animal Disney remake with a leonine villain, a big stampede sequence in a gorge, and a fiery showdown.
It’s not hard to see why the Favreau nouveau Lion King pales in comparison to the original hand-drawn tale of a young lion cub who loses his father and his way before rising up to reclaim the throne.
Pope Francis names Matteo Bruni as director of Holy See Press Office
Pope Francis Names Matteo Bruni As Director of Holy See Press Office: Matteo Bruni, 43, an Italian born in Great Britain, has worked for the Holy See press office since 2009, including as chief press handler, and most recently, as the lead on organization of papal trips.
Discussion of same-sex attraction should be rooted in God’s love, says Courage speaker Avera Maria Santo
Courage Speaker: Discussion of Same-Sex Attraction Should Be Rooted in God’s Love: Avera Maria Santo travels to parishes across the country giving her own testimony of experiencing Jesus’ love while living with same-sex attraction, and she shares how the Courage apostolate gave her a road map and supportive community committed to living out integrated sexuality informed by the beauty of the Church’s teachings.
Santo, 22, will bring that message to the University of St. Mary of the Lake seminary and conference center in Mundelein, Illinois, as a speaker for the 2019 annual Courage International Conference July 18-21.
Santo, 22, will bring that message to the University of St. Mary of the Lake seminary and conference center in Mundelein, Illinois, as a speaker for the 2019 annual Courage International Conference July 18-21.
Wednesday, July 17, 2019
The truth about political correctness
The Truth About Political Correctness ~ The Imaginative ConservativeCALDECOTT: Political correctness identifies a syndrome we all recognize, but is hard to define. It can be best described as a set of attitudes rather than an ideology, since viewed philosophically it is completely incoherent. It can perhaps be traced back to the French Revolution, in the aftermath of which various slogans became fashionable—mostly involving “Liberty” and “Equality,” sometimes joined with “Fraternity” or “Reason” to make up a memorable threesome. In each case the “value” in question is distorted by extraction from traditional philosophical frameworks in which such ideas had been discussed for many centuries—or perhaps more tellingly, from a concern with truth.
He is here
The Institute for Sacred Architecture | Articles | He is HereMILLS: It may have been partly the bright light, I admit, after all those crepuscular chapels. As soon as I opened the door, before I saw the altar, or the tabernacle, or the crucifix, when all I could see were pews, I felt at home. “Jesus is here,” I thought with complete certainty.
My family and I had been received into the Church at the Easter Vigil three months before. I was in Oxford for a conference on Newman. A theologian friend, John Saward, also a convert, had given me a tour of the city, particularly the old college chapels. Some memorialized our former Anglican heroes. Saint Mary the Virgin on High Street memorialized our hero Newman when he was an Anglican.
My family and I had been received into the Church at the Easter Vigil three months before. I was in Oxford for a conference on Newman. A theologian friend, John Saward, also a convert, had given me a tour of the city, particularly the old college chapels. Some memorialized our former Anglican heroes. Saint Mary the Virgin on High Street memorialized our hero Newman when he was an Anglican.
3 ways we should read Sacred Scripture
Three Ways We Should Read Sacred Scripture | Classical Catholic EducationLANGLEY: In scene two of the third Act of Romeo and Juliet, Friar Laurence cautions Romeo,
Wisely and Slow, they stumble that run fast.
Now, even those who have not read the play can guess that Romeo probably did not take that advice. Youth is impetuous and although St Thomas says,
Man has a natural aptitude for docility even as for other things connected with prudence,
nonetheless in the age of high-performance CPUs, increasing gigahertz, rockets and Aldi checkout lines, the virtue of slowness can be a tough sell!
Wisely and Slow, they stumble that run fast.
Now, even those who have not read the play can guess that Romeo probably did not take that advice. Youth is impetuous and although St Thomas says,
Man has a natural aptitude for docility even as for other things connected with prudence,
nonetheless in the age of high-performance CPUs, increasing gigahertz, rockets and Aldi checkout lines, the virtue of slowness can be a tough sell!
On fascination and fear before Almighty God
On Fascination and Fear before God - Community in MissionPOPE: Balanced spiritualities seek to find a middle ground between fascination and holy fear, a kind of reverent bowing before the Holy One Who draws me close. We saw it in yesterday’s reading in which Moses was fascinated by the burning bush and went nearer to investigate it. He was cautioned to revere this mystery: An angel of the LORD appeared to Moses in fire flaming out of a bush. As he looked on, he was surprised to see that the bush, though on fire, was not consumed. So Moses decided, “I must go over to look at this remarkable sight and see why the bush is not burned.” When the LORD saw him coming over to look at it more closely, God called out to him from the bush, “Moses! Moses!” He answered, “Here I am.” God said, “Come no nearer! Remove the sandals from your feet, for the place where you stand is holy ground.”
Small graces can lead to abundant blessings
Small Graces Can Lead to Abundant Blessings - Crisis MagazineFRASER: Evil loves the spotlight. It is exceedingly easy to perceive the chain reaction started with evil: abuse perpetuating abuse, bitterness to bitterness, death to death. For this reason it is easier to count those killed by Nazis, or Communists, than to count those encouraged to holiness by Maximilian Kolbe. Likewise, it seems that only when a marriage falls apart do we see how many are touched by that marriage, rather than recognizing all along how many benefit from a strong and holy marriage. Every once in a while, though, we can catch a glimpse of the thread stronger than death, linking us together, revealing the debt of gratitude to those who began our battles for us and opened channels of graces to share with us. For though evil may be more visible, the power of the Good God is far mightier. Grace, while it may be refused, never dies, but goes on, given by God to those who will cooperate, and ultimately brings about the unfathomable glory of God. Therefore, we may find that we are, in fact, in the same story of grace and the ultimate battle between good and evil, as have past heroes.
The church vandalism cases in France are starting to get the journalistic attention they deserve
Church vandalism cases in France starting to get the journalism attention they deserve — GetReligionLISI: Spending two weeks in France earlier this summer was a wonderful experience. While I was there to cover the Women’s World Cup, I did get an opportunity to travel extensively throughout Paris and the northern part of the country.
During my travels, I walked into a lot of churches. France is one of the few countries I have ever visited where churches were always open. There was something comforting seeing churches with their doors swung wide, inviting anyone to walk right in.
The other thing I noticed was how empty these houses of worship were. It’s not surprising given that church attendance in France is among the lowest in the world.
During my travels, I walked into a lot of churches. France is one of the few countries I have ever visited where churches were always open. There was something comforting seeing churches with their doors swung wide, inviting anyone to walk right in.
The other thing I noticed was how empty these houses of worship were. It’s not surprising given that church attendance in France is among the lowest in the world.
Dear National Catholic Reporter, don’t fudge parish numbers
Dear National Catholic Reporter, Don’t Fudge Parish Numbers | Matthew SchneiderSCHNEIDER: Last week, the National Catholic Reporter came out with a story about a parish they see as a model parish. However, the story exaggerated the parish reach and it misunderstood the sacrament of orders. St. William Catholic Church is a parish in Louisville run by a layperson. The archdiocesan website lists a lay “Pastoral Administrator,” and a retired priest as the “Sacramental Moderator.” The parish’s Facebook page lists a bunch of events with a focus on protests for immigrants and interfaith services. The NCR article indicated it became a sanctuary church in the 1980s and they help buy old houses, fix them up and rent them out at affordable prices.
Must-read NYTimes presentation: Notre-Dame came far closer to collapsing than people knew. This is how it was saved...
Notre-Dame came far closer to collapsing than people knew. This is how it was saved. - The New York Times: The employee monitoring the smoke alarm panel at Notre-Dame cathedral was just three days on the job when the red warning light flashed on the evening of April 15: “Feu.” Fire.
It was 6:18 on a Monday, the week before Easter. The Rev. Jean-Pierre Caveau was celebrating Mass before hundreds of worshipers and visitors, and the employee radioed a church guard who was standing just a few feet from the altar.
Go check for fire, the guard was told. He did and found nothing.
It took nearly 30 minutes before they realized their mistake: The guard had gone to the wrong building. The fire was in the attic of the cathedral, the famed latticework of ancient timbers known as “the forest.”
It was 6:18 on a Monday, the week before Easter. The Rev. Jean-Pierre Caveau was celebrating Mass before hundreds of worshipers and visitors, and the employee radioed a church guard who was standing just a few feet from the altar.
Go check for fire, the guard was told. He did and found nothing.
It took nearly 30 minutes before they realized their mistake: The guard had gone to the wrong building. The fire was in the attic of the cathedral, the famed latticework of ancient timbers known as “the forest.”
“The Hour of Power,” Roman Edition
Whispers in the Loggia: "The Hour of Power," Roman EditionPALMO: For a quarter-century, that verse of the Psalmist was Dr Robert Schuller's sign-on from this crystal sanctuary as he began his Sunday broadcasts across the globe... and now, it's fitting to return to it on this day, as one of American Christianity's most prominent and cherished venues begins its second incarnation as a Catholic church and the seat of this 1.5 million-member diocese, now one of the US' ten largest.
225 years ago today, the Carmelites of Compiègne went to the guillotine
The French Revolution and the Carmelites of CompiegneMANN: When Bastille Day comes around each summer on July 14, I just can’t bring myself to pop the cork on a bottle of Champagne-style California sparkling wine (the kind I can afford). The Fête Nationale commemorates the storming of the Bastille prison in 1789 and its one year anniversary, Fête de la Fédération, when a new government, with Louis XVI as a constitutional monarch, seemed to indicate a peaceful resolution to the French Revolution. I can’t help thinking of all that came after that, including the Reign of Terror and the campaign to destroy Catholicism in France. If I’m going to toast the memory of anyone in the middle of July, it would be the Blessed Carmelites of Compiègne, the nuns guillotined on July 17, 1794.
For Eritrea’s Christians, government is not the solution but the problem
For Eritrea's Christians, government not the solution but the problemALLEN: As the world struggles to catch up with what victims and experts have known for a long time - to wit, that anti-Christian persecution is one of the world’s most pernicious human rights scourges in the early 21st century - one point steadily becoming more clear is that it’s a complicated problem with no single diagnosis and, for sure, no single cure.
An event hosted by the British embassy to the Vatican Monday at Rome’s Basilica of San Bartolomeo brought a reminder of the point, in this case from Eritrea.
Ambassador Sally Axworthy of the UK organized the event to present a new report commissioned by the British government on anti-Christian persecution around the world. San Bartolomeo was a natural setting, since the church was entrusted to the Community of Sant’Egidio in 1993 and today hosts chapels dedicated to the “new martyrs” of the Middle East, Africa, Asia and the Americas.
An event hosted by the British embassy to the Vatican Monday at Rome’s Basilica of San Bartolomeo brought a reminder of the point, in this case from Eritrea.
Ambassador Sally Axworthy of the UK organized the event to present a new report commissioned by the British government on anti-Christian persecution around the world. San Bartolomeo was a natural setting, since the church was entrusted to the Community of Sant’Egidio in 1993 and today hosts chapels dedicated to the “new martyrs” of the Middle East, Africa, Asia and the Americas.
Planned Parenthood president Leana Wen resigns amid internal dispute over mission
Planned Parenthood President Leana Wen Resigns Amid Internal Dispute Over Mission: Citing disagreements with board leaders over whether Planned Parenthood should focus on health care or abortion advocacy, the organization’s president is stepping down.
Dr. Leana Wen took the reins at Planned Parenthood eight months ago. On Tuesday, she announced that she was resigning.
Wen’s statements about her departure suggested internal turbulence within the organization.
She initially posted on Twitter, “I just learned that the @PPFA Board ended my employment at a secret meeting. We were engaged in good faith negotiations about my departure based on philosophical differences over the direction and future of Planned Parenthood.”
A few minutes later, she posted an official statement.
Dr. Leana Wen took the reins at Planned Parenthood eight months ago. On Tuesday, she announced that she was resigning.
Wen’s statements about her departure suggested internal turbulence within the organization.
She initially posted on Twitter, “I just learned that the @PPFA Board ended my employment at a secret meeting. We were engaged in good faith negotiations about my departure based on philosophical differences over the direction and future of Planned Parenthood.”
A few minutes later, she posted an official statement.
I really like this new translation of Mark’s Gospel
A New Translation of Mark’s Gospel - Community in MissionPOPE: Michael Pakaluk’s skillful translation makes the text new and vibrant for me. It is like listening as Mark (who records Peter’s preaching) speaks directly to me. Engendering such a feeling is important because the Gospels are not meant to be like “spectator sports.” We are not just watching the lives of others unfold; this is our life, too. We are in the Gospel narrative: we are Peter; we are Mary Magdalene. These are not just distant events being recalled from memory; they are made present to us and become our story, too.
Dedication day arrives in Diocese of Orange for long-awaited Christ Cathedral
Whispers in the Loggia: The Crown Jewel – Today in The OC, The Church Comes HomePALMO: Forty-three years ago, when Rome spun off Orange County from the mothership of Los Angeles as its own local church, the one-county see numbered some 350,000 members. Now become the nation’s sixth-largest civic seat, its Catholic population has boomed to almost five times that. Yet even as it erupted into one of the Stateside church’s densest and most diverse outposts – bigger than Atlanta, Miami, Philadelphia and Seattle among others – the diocese has been an ecclesial nomad, the downtown parish-turned-bishop’s seat quickly overwhelmed by the rapid growth, its major events subsequently imposing by need on its already hectic larger parishes. But today, at last, they’ve now got a “common home” to call their own – one explicitly intended from its birth to emphasize man’s intrinsic link to the creation around him.
Tuesday, July 16, 2019
What Neil Armstrong and I did on July 20, 1969
What Neil Armstrong and I did on July 20, 1969HOOPES: Which has fared better in the past five decades: The Church or the scientific world?
I have been thinking a lot about this because I was baptized on July 20, 1969 — the day Apollo 11 landed on the moon.
That Sunday, 50 years ago, Neil Armstrong took his first steps on Tranquility Base, while I took my first breaths as a Christian in Tucson, Arizona.
Which event was more significant? It seems obvious.
Truly, what Neil Armstrong did was “One small step for a man, but one giant leap for mankind.”
My baptism, by contrast, was “One small step for a man, and nothing very special for mankind.”
I have been thinking a lot about this because I was baptized on July 20, 1969 — the day Apollo 11 landed on the moon.
That Sunday, 50 years ago, Neil Armstrong took his first steps on Tranquility Base, while I took my first breaths as a Christian in Tucson, Arizona.
Which event was more significant? It seems obvious.
Truly, what Neil Armstrong did was “One small step for a man, but one giant leap for mankind.”
My baptism, by contrast, was “One small step for a man, and nothing very special for mankind.”
How to take your virtues to new, life-changing heights
Olympic Virtue - Seton MagazineCLARK: Last year in this space, I wrote a column about Father Frank Papa, a good friend who passed from this life far too soon.
If Father Papa had lived to be 100, it still would have been too soon for those who knew and loved him.
There was just so much more wisdom he could impart—so much more wisdom that I needed to hear. A few weeks ago, as I was making my weekly Holy Hour, I was thinking about some of his wisdom.
If Father Papa had lived to be 100, it still would have been too soon for those who knew and loved him.
There was just so much more wisdom he could impart—so much more wisdom that I needed to hear. A few weeks ago, as I was making my weekly Holy Hour, I was thinking about some of his wisdom.
When men first landed on the Moon, I was at Fenway Park watching a Red Sox game...
50 years later: coming back to earth after the moon landing | Catholic CultureLAWLER: Sunday, July 20, 1969. Millions of Americans were in front of their television sets, watching coverage of the historic Apollo 11 mission. But it was a lovely afternoon in Boston, the Red Sox were hosting the Baltimore Orioles, and cheap seats were available in the distant right-field grandstand for impecunious college students. To be honest, the game itself was not memorable. The Red Sox were in the middle of an unremarkable year; they would finish in 3rd place in the American League. The Orioles were a stronger team. They would finish atop the American League, then, in a stunning upset, lose the World Series to the “Miracle Mets.” On this particular weekend, however, the Red Sox looked better. Boston won that Sunday-afternoon game, choking off an Oriole rally in the 9th inning to preserve a 6-5 victory and sweep a 3-game series.
Mark insists that Christ is the Son of God
Mark insists that Christ is the Son of God | Catholic CultureMIRUS: In my commentary on St. Matthew’s gospel, I emphasize Mathew’s central theme of establishing, point by point, that Jesus Christ is the Messiah expected by the Jewish nation. In sharp contrast, St. Mark insists from the very first that Jesus is the Son of God. Thus Mark largely bypasses traditional Jewish expectations, moving directly to the one point that matters to the whole world.
I don’t mean that Matthew never acknowledges Christ as the Son of God. Sometimes Matthew even does this when recounting incidents in which Mark does not make the same point.
I don’t mean that Matthew never acknowledges Christ as the Son of God. Sometimes Matthew even does this when recounting incidents in which Mark does not make the same point.
Netflix removes suicide scene from ‘13 Reasons Why’ after dramatic spike in teen suicides
Netflix Removes Suicide Scene From 13 Reasons Why After Dramatic Spike in Teen Suicides | LifeNews.com: Netflix removed the graphic suicide scene from “13 Reasons Why,” a move that follows an April study showing a spike in teen suicides after the show was released.
Netflix announced in a statement Tuesday they will remove a graphic suicide scene in which actress Katherine Langford’s character, a teenager named Hannah, kills herself by slitting her wrist in a bathtub.
“We’ve heard from many young people that 13 Reasons Why encouraged them to start conversations about difficult issues like depression and suicide and get help — often for the first time,” Netflix said in a statement Tuesday.
Netflix announced in a statement Tuesday they will remove a graphic suicide scene in which actress Katherine Langford’s character, a teenager named Hannah, kills herself by slitting her wrist in a bathtub.
“We’ve heard from many young people that 13 Reasons Why encouraged them to start conversations about difficult issues like depression and suicide and get help — often for the first time,” Netflix said in a statement Tuesday.
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