We Don’t Need a Hulk — We Have Heaven’s HeroesBECKER: Like the rest of the world, you probably went to see Avengers: Endgame last spring, right? Even if you’d growing weary of the whole Marvel Cinematic Universe schtick, you felt compelled to take in the final chapter of the 10-year-old cinematic saga – if for no other reason than to find out how the MCU magicians were going to resolve the whole “half the human race dissolving into dust” conundrum.
Plus, what happens to Iron Man. And what about all those sneak previews of Thor with a beer belly?
Yes, yes, I went, too (and on the off-chance you didn’t, the DVD is available now), and, yes, it was a fun ride, although a bit overlong – and I’d say more than a bit ham-handed with the time-travel ex machina business. Still, it would’ve been tough for Marvel/Disney to mess up the wildly successful Avengers formula at this late date: An impossible task related to saving the world, and a team of heroes with special powers joining forces to defeat the enemy.
Saturday, August 31, 2019
No one should have a soul so dead that he does not wish to see his dogs in Heaven
Dogs in Heaven | The StreamMILLS: I’ve known people with souls so dead. One was a strict follower of the theologian Thomas Aquinas. He worked out, with sharp and irrefutable logic, his claim that when your dog dies, he disappears as if he had never been. He has no more claim to immortality than your old toaster. Another was a strict follower of the theologian John Calvin. He argued with equal precision. He drew the same conclusion.
I can’t help but feel that there is something wrong with these guys. They lack the sense that separates man from computers. The love of another creature that would tell them, in Hamlet’s famous line, “There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, than are dreamt of in your philosophy.” They argue beautifully, but they begin their arguments with an un-reality. They go wrong from the very beginning.
I can’t help but feel that there is something wrong with these guys. They lack the sense that separates man from computers. The love of another creature that would tell them, in Hamlet’s famous line, “There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, than are dreamt of in your philosophy.” They argue beautifully, but they begin their arguments with an un-reality. They go wrong from the very beginning.
I am always struck by the elusive solitude of Jesus Christ in the Gospels
The Elusive Solitude of Christ – Fr. Dwight LongeneckerLONGENECKER: It is extraordinary how realistic the portrait of Jesus is in the gospels. On the one hand he is incredibly complex, but then on another glance he is totally simple, straightforward and clear. You can’t figure him out, and then you realize he doesn’t need figuring out. He is what he is. Nothing false. He doesn’t play power games. He doesn’t manipulate. He’s not on an ego trip.
The scholars who have tried to write their biographies of Jesus have invariably failed because they have all tried to figure him out. They’ve tried to put him in a box, pin him down, give him an agenda, and turn him into some sort of campaigner or rebel with a cause. So they paint him as the religious revolutionary or the wise rabbi. They portray him as a country apocalyptic preacher, a healer and a Jewish guru. They cast him as a proto communist, a liberator or a Brother Sun, Sister Moon hippie.
The scholars who have tried to write their biographies of Jesus have invariably failed because they have all tried to figure him out. They’ve tried to put him in a box, pin him down, give him an agenda, and turn him into some sort of campaigner or rebel with a cause. So they paint him as the religious revolutionary or the wise rabbi. They portray him as a country apocalyptic preacher, a healer and a Jewish guru. They cast him as a proto communist, a liberator or a Brother Sun, Sister Moon hippie.
Trails of Wind: The architecture of airport runways
Trails of Wind: The lines on the map display the orientation of all airport runways in color gradients from north-south axis (blue) to east-west axis (yellow).
“Lettergate” hoaxer Msgr. Dario Viganò parked in new position at pontifical academies
Msgr. Dario Vigano Named Vice Chancellor of Pontifical Academy of Sciences: Pope Francis has named Msgr. Dario Vigano, the former head of Vatican communications, to a new position of vice chancellor of the Pontifical Academy of Sciences and the Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences.
Msgr. Vigano, 57, has been serving as an adviser to the Vatican communications department since March 2018, when he stepped down as prefect of what was then the Secretariat for Communications.
Msgr. Vigano resigned following a controversy some dubbed “Lettergate,” in which the priest, when presenting a letter of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI to the media, had blurred some lines and omitted whole paragraphs, obscuring its full meaning.
Msgr. Vigano, 57, has been serving as an adviser to the Vatican communications department since March 2018, when he stepped down as prefect of what was then the Secretariat for Communications.
Msgr. Vigano resigned following a controversy some dubbed “Lettergate,” in which the priest, when presenting a letter of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI to the media, had blurred some lines and omitted whole paragraphs, obscuring its full meaning.
Vatican’s “Ironic Employment Division” strikes again
Vatican’s “Ironic Employment Division” strikes againALLEN: Under Argentine Bishop Marcelo Sánchez Sorondo, the Pontifical Academy for Social Sciences has become one of the Vatican’s primary beachheads for advancing the pro-immigrant, anti-“savage capitalism” vision of the world articulated by Pope Francis.
Because that vision is controversial, so’s the academy, which means it often needs some PR help. In response to that perceived lacuna, Francis made a move Saturday - and, to say the least, it’s a doozy.
The pontiff named 57-year-old Italian Monsignor Dario Edoardo Viganò to the apparently brand-new position of “Vice Chancellor” for both the Academy for Science and the Academy for Social Sciences, which are jointly led by Sanchez Sorondo. Francis assigned Viganò special responsibility for communications.
Because that vision is controversial, so’s the academy, which means it often needs some PR help. In response to that perceived lacuna, Francis made a move Saturday - and, to say the least, it’s a doozy.
The pontiff named 57-year-old Italian Monsignor Dario Edoardo Viganò to the apparently brand-new position of “Vice Chancellor” for both the Academy for Science and the Academy for Social Sciences, which are jointly led by Sanchez Sorondo. Francis assigned Viganò special responsibility for communications.
No, the Amazon is not “earth’s lungs”
The Amazon Is on Fire, but Earth Has Plenty of Oxygen - The Atlantic: As tongues of flame lapped the planet’s largest tract of rain forest over the past few weeks, it has rightfully inspired the world’s horror. The entire Amazon could be nearing the edge of a desiccating feedback loop, one that could end in catastrophic collapse. This collapse would threaten millions of species, from every branch of the tree of life, each of them—its idiosyncratic splendor, its subjective animal perception of the world—irretrievable once it’s gone. This arson has been tacitly encouraged by a Brazilian administration that is determined to develop the rain forest, over the objections of its indigenous inhabitants and the world at large. Losing the Amazon, beyond representing a planetary historic tragedy beyond measure, would also make meeting the ambitious climate goals of the Paris Agreement all but impossible. World leaders need to marshal all their political and diplomatic might to save it.
What it’s like to eject out of a military jet
What it's like to eject out of a military jet | Popular Science: When things go terribly wrong in a military aircraft, the pilot's last resort is the equipment they're sitting on: the seat. And it cannot fail, ever.
The 200-lb ejection seat, with its 3,500 or so parts, is a remarkable piece of technology that not only gets pilots out of a crashing plane but also ensures they survive the experience more or less unscathed. If the pilot ejects above 16,400 feet where oxygen is scarce, sensors on the chair will let it free-fall to get its occupant down to breathable air as fast as possible, and only then will the parachute open.
The 200-lb ejection seat, with its 3,500 or so parts, is a remarkable piece of technology that not only gets pilots out of a crashing plane but also ensures they survive the experience more or less unscathed. If the pilot ejects above 16,400 feet where oxygen is scarce, sensors on the chair will let it free-fall to get its occupant down to breathable air as fast as possible, and only then will the parachute open.
In ‘One Child Nation,’ there are no missteps or wasted moments
SDG Reviews ‘One Child Nation’GREYDANUS: Many movies have made me cry. Very few have been as difficult or impossible even to write about without crying as Nanfu Wang and Jialing Zhang’s brilliant, devastating Sundance Grand Jury winner One Child Nation, a courageous stealth documentary about China’s draconian one-child policy, which held sway from 1979 until 2015. One Child Nation is Wang’s second politically provocative documentary about human-rights abuses in China, following her debut feature, Hooligan Sparrow, made as a film student at New York University. Shooting in secret and smuggling her work out of China, Wang documented the government’s heavy-handed treatment of Chinese human-rights activists working to hold accountable a school principal who sexually abused six elementary schoolgirls.
Friday, August 30, 2019
Seattle Jesuit says parish kept him in the dark about planned suicide; funeral permission given by archdiocese after death
Father Quentin Dupont responds to AP story on assisted suicide of Catholic man in Seattle | America Magazine: A report published on Aug. 26 from the Associated Press tells the story of the final days of Robert Fuller, who after a battle with cancer chose to take his own life using a fatal combination of drugs. Among the things Mr. Fuller sought before his death was a blessing in the midst of his parish, St. Therese in Seattle, Wash. An AP photo captures the moment: Mr. Fuller dressed in a Hawaiian shirt and above him Quentin Dupont, S.J., arms raised in prayer. What the photo does not capture is the full story behind the capacity in which Father Dupont was present and what he knew about Mr. Fuller’s decision, both of which have been the subject of confusion since the story was published.
This is all about politics, of course: ‘A deep and boiling anger’ soaks into American life
This is all about politics, of course: 'A deep and boiling anger' soaks into American life — GetReligionMATTINGLY: All together now. It’s time to recite one of the semi-official GetReligion mantras: “Politics is real. Religion is, well, not all that real (or words to that effect).”
At the heart of the whole “The press ... just doesn’t get religion” syndrome is fact (I’m wonder if anyone would dispute this) that politics the most important subject in the world of news, according to the people who run our culture’s most powerful newsrooms. More often than not, religion news gets major coverage — on television especially — when (a) religion affects politics or (b) religion-news facts and trends are debated in ways that, to many journalists, resemble politics...
At the heart of the whole “The press ... just doesn’t get religion” syndrome is fact (I’m wonder if anyone would dispute this) that politics the most important subject in the world of news, according to the people who run our culture’s most powerful newsrooms. More often than not, religion news gets major coverage — on television especially — when (a) religion affects politics or (b) religion-news facts and trends are debated in ways that, to many journalists, resemble politics...
Items on the threshold of fall
Archbishop Chaput’s Weekly Column: Items On The Threshold Of Fall – Archdiocese of PhiladelphiaCHAPUT: September is a back to school, back to work, month as vacations end and life returns to normal. But this September is not normal for 40 persons whose commitment to the mission of the Church I deeply admire. The reason is simple. Each of them will be honored in a unique and beautiful way by Pope Francis.
Papal honors are rarely given, and when they are, they’re a source of joy and pride for the whole archdiocese. When the Holy Father bestows a pontifical award, he recognizes the generosity and exceptional dedication of a particular individual. Each such person deserves our gratitude and praise. But in granting these awards, Pope Francis also seeks to highlight for the wider believing community the importance of many different forms of Christian service. We’re all called to lives of discipleship, and many thousands of people in our local Church live their faith with equal and exemplary fidelity. They too share in these honors.
On Thursday, September 5, on behalf of Pope Francis, I’ll award to recipients the Benemerenti Medal, the Cross Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice, and membership in the pontifical knightly Orders of St. Sylvester and St. Gregory the Great at a 5 p.m. Vespers Service at the Cathedral Basilica of Sts. Peter and Paul in Center City. This is a great moment for our local Church, and I invite the public to share in it.
Papal honors are rarely given, and when they are, they’re a source of joy and pride for the whole archdiocese. When the Holy Father bestows a pontifical award, he recognizes the generosity and exceptional dedication of a particular individual. Each such person deserves our gratitude and praise. But in granting these awards, Pope Francis also seeks to highlight for the wider believing community the importance of many different forms of Christian service. We’re all called to lives of discipleship, and many thousands of people in our local Church live their faith with equal and exemplary fidelity. They too share in these honors.
On Thursday, September 5, on behalf of Pope Francis, I’ll award to recipients the Benemerenti Medal, the Cross Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice, and membership in the pontifical knightly Orders of St. Sylvester and St. Gregory the Great at a 5 p.m. Vespers Service at the Cathedral Basilica of Sts. Peter and Paul in Center City. This is a great moment for our local Church, and I invite the public to share in it.
St. John the Baptist was a martyr for the sanctity of marriage
St. John the Baptist, Martyr for the Sanctity of Marriage - Community in MissionPOPE: The Memorial of the Passion of St. John the Baptist celebrated on Thursday speaks to a critical issue in our times. Herod both resisted and violated his own conscience; he feared the opinion of the crowd more than that of God, ordering the hideous and unjust murder of John the Baptist. Unfortunately, such acts are commonly committed by some leaders and others who compromise with evil in order to survive and flourish in an evil world. The reason for John’s imprisonment and murder is what makes his death a lesson, particularly for our age.
The big winner in Italy’s meltdown may be a center-left devotee of Padre Pio
Big winner in Italy’s meltdown may be center-left devotee of Padre PioALLEN: In the early 21st century, you can analyze politics pretty much anywhere in terms of the interplay of four basic forces: The populist left, the establishment left, the establishment right and the populist right.
As applied to what now seems the outlines of a new Italian government involving the leftist Democratic Party and the populist Five Star movement, the Catholic role (and, indirectly, that of Pope Francis) can be expressed this way: To block the populist right, Church leaders are backing the establishment left.
August is typically the dictionary definition of “sleepy” in Italy, but this year it’s been one of the most tumultuous months on record after far-right populist leader Matteo Salvini backed out of his own coalition with the left-leaning Five Star movement in a bid for snap elections, possibly as early as October.
As applied to what now seems the outlines of a new Italian government involving the leftist Democratic Party and the populist Five Star movement, the Catholic role (and, indirectly, that of Pope Francis) can be expressed this way: To block the populist right, Church leaders are backing the establishment left.
August is typically the dictionary definition of “sleepy” in Italy, but this year it’s been one of the most tumultuous months on record after far-right populist leader Matteo Salvini backed out of his own coalition with the left-leaning Five Star movement in a bid for snap elections, possibly as early as October.
Healed aneurysm investigated as possible miracle for Creole nun’s beatification
Healed Aneurysm Investigated as Possible Miracle for Creole Nun's Beatification: In December 2017, 19 year-old Arkansas college student Christine McGee was rushed to the hospital by her mother.
Christine had fallen ill with what turned out to be an aneurysm, and it looked like she was going to die. Once at the hospital, Christine fell into a coma and became unresponsive.
Today, Christine is healed. She recently received her Master’s degree from Loyola University in New Orleans, and she can drive and live independently.
Her recovery could be a miracle that progresses the sainthood cause of a Louisiana Creole religious sister, say authorities from the Diocese of Little Rock Arkansas.
While Christine was ill, her mother prayed for the intercession of Venerable Henriette DeLille, asking for healing for her daughter.
Christine had fallen ill with what turned out to be an aneurysm, and it looked like she was going to die. Once at the hospital, Christine fell into a coma and became unresponsive.
Today, Christine is healed. She recently received her Master’s degree from Loyola University in New Orleans, and she can drive and live independently.
Her recovery could be a miracle that progresses the sainthood cause of a Louisiana Creole religious sister, say authorities from the Diocese of Little Rock Arkansas.
While Christine was ill, her mother prayed for the intercession of Venerable Henriette DeLille, asking for healing for her daughter.
Thursday, August 29, 2019
Why Joseph Stalin’s daughter abandoned Communism and became Catholic
When Joseph Stalin’s Daughter Became CatholicARCHBOLD: Svetlana Stalin, the daughter of the murderous dictator Joseph Stalin, renounced materialism and converted to Catholicism. Joseph would not have approved. In fact, Svetlana once reportedly told an editor of National Review that “my father would have shot me for what I have done.”
Joseph Stalin himself was raised in the Orthodox Church. His parents actually wanted him to be a priest. Unfortunately, his father abused the young Joseph mercilessly. Stalin once described his childhood as having been “raised in a poor priest-ridden household.” He came to renounce Christianity altogether, reportedly saying...
Joseph Stalin himself was raised in the Orthodox Church. His parents actually wanted him to be a priest. Unfortunately, his father abused the young Joseph mercilessly. Stalin once described his childhood as having been “raised in a poor priest-ridden household.” He came to renounce Christianity altogether, reportedly saying...
Might Pope Francis turn to the “Untier of Knots” on ecumenism and the refugee crisis?
Might Francis turn to the “Untier of Knots” on ecumenism and the refugee crisis?ALLEN: Recently the Bavarian city of Augsburg found itself in an uncomfortable spotlight when a Chechen refugee now living there was fined $1,500 by a local court for reposting an article on his Facebook page published by Germany’s public broadcaster about how ISIS fighters obtain weapons.
Mokhmad Abdurakhmanov posted the Deutsche Welle article and accompanying photo in March 2018, which the court held violated a 2014 German law against displaying the ISIS logo. The ruling came despite the fact that Deutsche Welle has not been fined for the original photo, and that 79 other people reposted the piece without any legal fallout.
Mokhmad Abdurakhmanov posted the Deutsche Welle article and accompanying photo in March 2018, which the court held violated a 2014 German law against displaying the ISIS logo. The ruling came despite the fact that Deutsche Welle has not been fined for the original photo, and that 79 other people reposted the piece without any legal fallout.
Exorcist warns: Wicca promises freedom, delivers shackles
Exorcist Warns: Wicca Promises Freedom, Delivers ShacklesARMSTRONG: Through celebrity glitz and shouts of female empowerment, witchcraft has become chic. According to Pew Research, witches now outnumber Presbyterians. The brand image these days is “cool,” so no one with stringy hair or nose warts need apply.
Faithful Catholics would choose words other than “cool” to describe Wicca. “Demonic” would be more accurate. We understand that evil lies beneath the veneer of female empowerment and chumminess with the universe.
The Los Angeles Times recently did a big feature on the “Working Witches of LA,” giving it over 2,200 words. That’s first-class treatment in our short-attention-span-world. A local TV talk show host followed up on the article and gushed on air with a Southern California witch, “This is my favorite story of the week!”
Faithful Catholics would choose words other than “cool” to describe Wicca. “Demonic” would be more accurate. We understand that evil lies beneath the veneer of female empowerment and chumminess with the universe.
The Los Angeles Times recently did a big feature on the “Working Witches of LA,” giving it over 2,200 words. That’s first-class treatment in our short-attention-span-world. A local TV talk show host followed up on the article and gushed on air with a Southern California witch, “This is my favorite story of the week!”
In praise of today’s seminarians
In praise of today’s seminarians - Denver CatholicWEIGEL: If you’re feeling a bit down about the future of Catholicism in the United States, ask yourself these questions: Why haven’t American seminaries emptied over the past 16 months, as Crisis 2.0 continues to roil the U.S. Church and an aggressive media regularly puts Catholicism in the worst possible public light? Why haven’t the McCarrick affair, the Pennsylvania grand jury report, the Bransfield affair, and other revelations of episcopal misgovernance (and worse) caused a mass exodus of young men from priestly formation? Can you name another profession, regularly subjected to media ridicule and popular caricature, to which young men are applying in greater numbers than 20 years ago?
Parish boundaries still matter
Parish Boundaries Still Matter - Community in MissionPOPE: In my thirty years of priesthood I have come to see the genius in the fact that every Catholic diocese is divided into parishes with definitive geographical boundaries; the strongest parishes seem to be those that assume primary care for those in their territory. Prior to about 1980, parish boundaries were fairly strictly enforced, and in the absence of extenuating circumstances, Catholics were expected to attend Mass in the parish of their residence. Since that time, however, not only are they seldom enforced, they are rarely even known about by Catholics. Except in certain arcane matters of canon law and jurisdiction for the sacraments, they rarely come into play. Catholics thus often “shop around,” looking for a parish whose liturgical style, preaching, music, or Mass schedule most suit them. There are also parishes that seek to address a particular niche market, extending their outreach to particular ethnic or racial groups or by offering Mass in different languages.
“This ain’t no miracle”: Fake visionary painted tears of blood on statue of Our Lady, sculptor who cleaned statue reveals
Exclusive: Fake Visionary Painted Tears of Blood on Mary Statue, Sculptor Who Cleaned Statue Reveals | ChurchPOP: Sculptor, painter, and artist Suzanne Stack recently spoke to ChurchPOP regarding claims of miraculously bleeding statues at St. Mark Catholic Church in Argyle, Texas.
The news comes as a result of a woman claiming she is a Marian visionary.
Bishop Michael Olson of the Diocese of Fort Worth recently released a statement saying these alleged apparitions under the title of “Mystical Rose-Our Lady of Argyle” are false.
The fake visionary claims Mary, several saints, and Jesus have appeared to her at various parishes across the North Texas area since 2017.
She also claims multiple miracles occur as a result of these visions. She says rose petals miraculously appear, water mysteriously flows on the parish’s campus, she claims she has the stigmata, and that Mary statues cry.
The news comes as a result of a woman claiming she is a Marian visionary.
Bishop Michael Olson of the Diocese of Fort Worth recently released a statement saying these alleged apparitions under the title of “Mystical Rose-Our Lady of Argyle” are false.
The fake visionary claims Mary, several saints, and Jesus have appeared to her at various parishes across the North Texas area since 2017.
She also claims multiple miracles occur as a result of these visions. She says rose petals miraculously appear, water mysteriously flows on the parish’s campus, she claims she has the stigmata, and that Mary statues cry.
Facebook posts contradict Archdiocese of Seattle’s claims about parish support for suicide
Facebook Posts Contradict Seattle Archdiocese Claims on Parishioner’s Planned Suicide: Social media posts made by Robert Fuller, the man whose assisted suicide was profiled Aug. 26 by the Associated Press, suggest that he scheduled his funeral with his parish days before his suicide, and that a priest had “given his blessings” to the suicide plan. In a March 16 Facebook post, Fuller claimed that he had completed the legal steps required to receive a prescription of life-ending drugs, and that he had the approval of a priest to end his own life. “I have absolutely no reservations about what I am doing,” he wrote. “And my pastor/sponsor has given me his blessings. And he’s a Jesuit!!!”
How John Henry Newman’s writing was used to fight the Nazis
How John Henry Newman’s Writing Fought the NazisTURLEY: What do a 19th-century Catholic convert and 20th-century college student have in common?
A lot, if their names are Newman and Scholl — for Sophie Scholl, the young German woman who 76 years ago lost her life resisting the Nazis, was influenced by the writings and witness of soon-to-be St. John Henry Newman.
“Sophie Scholl was deeply moved by Newman’s Parochial and Plain Sermons,” explained Father Dermot Fenlon, whose groundbreaking essay on the connection between Newman and the White Rose movement appeared in the German journal Newman Studien (2010).
The White Rose was a nonviolent, intellectual resistance group. It comprised mainly students at the University of Munich, who, from June 27, 1942, onwards organized an anonymous leaflet and graffiti campaign calling for active opposition to the Nazi regime. The Gestapo arrested the leaders of the White Rose group on Feb. 18, 1943; show trials followed, as well as prison and execution for those implicated.
A lot, if their names are Newman and Scholl — for Sophie Scholl, the young German woman who 76 years ago lost her life resisting the Nazis, was influenced by the writings and witness of soon-to-be St. John Henry Newman.
“Sophie Scholl was deeply moved by Newman’s Parochial and Plain Sermons,” explained Father Dermot Fenlon, whose groundbreaking essay on the connection between Newman and the White Rose movement appeared in the German journal Newman Studien (2010).
The White Rose was a nonviolent, intellectual resistance group. It comprised mainly students at the University of Munich, who, from June 27, 1942, onwards organized an anonymous leaflet and graffiti campaign calling for active opposition to the Nazi regime. The Gestapo arrested the leaders of the White Rose group on Feb. 18, 1943; show trials followed, as well as prison and execution for those implicated.
Wednesday, August 28, 2019
Don’t let politics ruin your relationships
Don't let politics ruin your relationships - OSV NewsweeklyLOPEZ: I’m not usually the kind of person who thinks there should be a law for everything, but I will confess: If we could at least all agree to never start a conversation with, “Did you hear what Donald Trump said/tweeted today?”, we would all be healthier people.
I recently read Jeanne Safer’s book, “I Love You, but I Hate Your Politics,” and now I feel like my conviction has official expert approval. She’s a psychotherapist in New York City, and the book is all about how politics ruins relationships. The book isn’t a mere chronicle of these tales of woe or livid anger. It’s a help. She wants, as the subtitle explains, to protect relationships in a “poisonous partisan world.”
I recently read Jeanne Safer’s book, “I Love You, but I Hate Your Politics,” and now I feel like my conviction has official expert approval. She’s a psychotherapist in New York City, and the book is all about how politics ruins relationships. The book isn’t a mere chronicle of these tales of woe or livid anger. It’s a help. She wants, as the subtitle explains, to protect relationships in a “poisonous partisan world.”
Marvel Comics veteran Jim Fern shares his Catholic faith and advice to aspiring artists
Interview: Marvel Comics veteran Jim Fern shares his Catholic faith and advice to aspiring artists - Voyage Comics & PublishingKOSLOSKI: Recently I was able to ask Marvel Comics veteran Jim Fern a range of questions about his comic book career as well as his deep Catholic Faith. Before getting into the questions, here is a short introduction.
Most recently, Jim Fern was the Continuity Art Director for Issue 1 of Finnian and the Seven Mountains and his expertise and influence remain a driving force behind Voyage Comics.
Jim Fern became an inker for Marvel in 1983 working on various Spider-Man titles. He later started penciling as a fill-in artist on titles such as Amazing Spider-Man, X-Men Annual #13 (where he co-designed and drew Jubilee in her first story), Transformers and Wolverine. Fern also started working with DC Comics as an artist on such titles as Legion ’90, Adventures of Superman, Batman, Detective COMICS, and co-created the series Scarlett. He is also co-creater and designer for Crossing Midnight with Mike Carey published by DC’s Vertigo line. In addition to his comic book work, Jim has worked as a Walt Disney World artist for the Disney Design Group.
Most recently, Jim Fern was the Continuity Art Director for Issue 1 of Finnian and the Seven Mountains and his expertise and influence remain a driving force behind Voyage Comics.
Jim Fern became an inker for Marvel in 1983 working on various Spider-Man titles. He later started penciling as a fill-in artist on titles such as Amazing Spider-Man, X-Men Annual #13 (where he co-designed and drew Jubilee in her first story), Transformers and Wolverine. Fern also started working with DC Comics as an artist on such titles as Legion ’90, Adventures of Superman, Batman, Detective COMICS, and co-created the series Scarlett. He is also co-creater and designer for Crossing Midnight with Mike Carey published by DC’s Vertigo line. In addition to his comic book work, Jim has worked as a Walt Disney World artist for the Disney Design Group.
Transgenderism is a gateway to pedophilia
Transgenderism is a Gateway to PedophiliaWIKER: As I’ve written previously, pedophilia was widely accepted in ancient pagan Greece and Rome. The only reason that it’s still illegal today is that Christians evangelized the decadent Roman Empire and made it clear to converts that sex with children belonged to the “way of death,” not the “way of life.” These are the words of the Didache, the first-century catechetical manual for converts to Christianity from paganism, which commands, “you shall not corrupt boys.”
Pedophilia wasn’t the only pagan practice Christianity rejected. The Romans also accepted contraception, abortion, infanticide, homosexuality, same-sex marriage, transgenderism, sex before and outside of marriage, sexual concubines, sex with one’s own slaves (any gender, any age, including children), pornography and bestiality.
Pedophilia wasn’t the only pagan practice Christianity rejected. The Romans also accepted contraception, abortion, infanticide, homosexuality, same-sex marriage, transgenderism, sex before and outside of marriage, sexual concubines, sex with one’s own slaves (any gender, any age, including children), pornography and bestiality.
Why people set on suicide and euthanasia can’t receive the sacraments
Assisted Suicide: How the Church Should Behave and WHY | Matthew SchneiderSCHNEIDER: This week, news came out of Seattle of Robert Fuller who died via assisted suicide. Two reports about how his parish dealt with it also emerged. I will quote both reports. His story raises questions about how we as a Church should help people intent on assisted suicide or euthanasia. After the news stories, I will explain Church teaching. At first, the report from AP via the Detroit News seems pretty normal now this is legal. The same report had a summary of Mr. Fuller’s life including advocacy promoting assisted suicide as a member of the Hemlock SOciety. Then it gets to his relationship with the Church relying on the testimony of the parish choir director.
Wyoming bishop’s decades of abuse destroyed lives, traumatized families
Wyoming bishop's decades of abuse destroyed lives, traumatized familiesWHITE: As parishioners attended the Feast of the Assumption Mass inside Guardian Angels Catholic Church on August 15, members of the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests (SNAP) gathered outside on the sidewalk for a press conference marking an occasion that many believed would never come.
Less than 24 hours earlier, police in Cheyenne, Wyoming recommended to prosecutors that a one-time Guardian Angels priest, who would go on to become a beloved Catholic bishop, face criminal charges for the sexual abuse of minors.
Less than 24 hours earlier, police in Cheyenne, Wyoming recommended to prosecutors that a one-time Guardian Angels priest, who would go on to become a beloved Catholic bishop, face criminal charges for the sexual abuse of minors.
Do not be deceived. Satan is real and we must resist him...
Satan is Real - Community in MissionPOPE: Once again it is necessary to reiterate the true, Catholic, and biblical teaching on Satan and demons. Contrary to what Superior General of the Society of Jesus Fr. Arturo Sosa stated in a recent interview, the Church does not teach that Satan is merely a symbol or an idea. He is not the “personification of evil”; he is a person, an individual creature, a fallen angelic being (as are all demons). Scripture uses personal pronouns in referring to Satan and demons (e.g., he, him, they). The Catechism of the Catholic Church affirms that Satan is an existing creature, a fallen angel who is envious of us and is a murderer from the beginning:
‘Widely known and accepted’: Seattle bishops to ‘review’ blessing of assisted suicide advocate
Seattle Bishops to ‘Review’ Blessing of Assisted Suicide Advocate: The Archdiocese of Seattle is facing questions after a local man received a formal Catholic blessing at Mass shortly before committing medically assisted suicide.
Robert Fuller, an HIV and cancer patient, committed suicide on May 10.
An Aug. 27 Associated Press profile of Fuller’s final days included a photograph and account of the blessing he received at St. Therese Parish in the Seattle archdiocese, five days before he ended his own life.
“The Associated Press story about Mr. Fuller is of great concern to the Archbishops because it may cause confusion among Catholics and others who share our reverence for human life,” the Archdiocese of Seattle said in an Aug. 27 statement.
After Fuller attended a final Mass at his parish, Jesuit Father Quentin Dupont, led children who had just received their First Holy Communion to gather around the man. The priest, the children, and members of the parish extended their hands in blessing over him. This act was recorded and photographed by an AP journalist.
Robert Fuller, an HIV and cancer patient, committed suicide on May 10.
An Aug. 27 Associated Press profile of Fuller’s final days included a photograph and account of the blessing he received at St. Therese Parish in the Seattle archdiocese, five days before he ended his own life.
“The Associated Press story about Mr. Fuller is of great concern to the Archbishops because it may cause confusion among Catholics and others who share our reverence for human life,” the Archdiocese of Seattle said in an Aug. 27 statement.
After Fuller attended a final Mass at his parish, Jesuit Father Quentin Dupont, led children who had just received their First Holy Communion to gather around the man. The priest, the children, and members of the parish extended their hands in blessing over him. This act was recorded and photographed by an AP journalist.
Tuesday, August 27, 2019
Benedict XVI responds to criticism of his essay on the Church and the sex abuse crisis
Pope Benedict XVI Responds to Criticism of His Essay on the Church and the Sexual Abuse Crisis: Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI has responded to criticism of his essay on the abuse crisis, saying many negative reactions have confirmed his central thesis that apostasy and alienation from the Faith are at the heart of the crisis – by not even mentioning God in their critique of his essay.
In a brief statement in reaction to such criticism published in German magazine “Herder Korrespondenz,” the former pope pointed to a “general deficit” in the reactions to his essay, saying that many critical responses missed the very point he was making.
In a brief statement in reaction to such criticism published in German magazine “Herder Korrespondenz,” the former pope pointed to a “general deficit” in the reactions to his essay, saying that many critical responses missed the very point he was making.
Monday, August 26, 2019
Let’s look more closely at some of Our Lord’s qualities as preacher and teacher
Jesus’ Qualities as Preacher and Teacher - Community in MissionPOPE: As a priest I am called to preach and teach, and I must look to Jesus Christ as my model. In this I refer to the real Jesus, the Jesus of Scripture. He clearly loved God’s people, and because of that he could not abide a limited notion of salvation for them. Jesus zealously insisted that they receive the whole counsel of God. He insisted on a dignity for them that was nothing less than the perfection of God Himself (cf. Matthew 5:41).
As a teacher, Jesus often operated in the mode of the prophets. Prophets have a way of comforting the afflicted and afflicting the comfortable. Yet despite Jesus’ often fiery and provocative stances, the Scriptures speak of the eagerness with which many flocked to hear Him.
As a teacher, Jesus often operated in the mode of the prophets. Prophets have a way of comforting the afflicted and afflicting the comfortable. Yet despite Jesus’ often fiery and provocative stances, the Scriptures speak of the eagerness with which many flocked to hear Him.
Some thoughts for late summer
Archbishop Chaput’s Weekly Column: Some Thoughts For Late Summer – Archdiocese of PhiladelphiaCHAPUT: Summer is a time for good reading, and there’s never enough time to read every good text. Still, as the days of summer come to an end, I want to warmly recommend two new books that are too worthy to ignore.
Some of the most common misperceptions of priestly celibacy are that it’s a deficiency or an unrealistic burden; or that a married priesthood would somehow solve the problem of clergy sexual abuse (no such evidence exists, and a married priesthood has its own sobering set of problems). But it’s quite true that the priest who lives his celibacy without a grounding in its proper meaning and spirit will be a lonely, unhappy man – and little use to his people.
Some of the most common misperceptions of priestly celibacy are that it’s a deficiency or an unrealistic burden; or that a married priesthood would somehow solve the problem of clergy sexual abuse (no such evidence exists, and a married priesthood has its own sobering set of problems). But it’s quite true that the priest who lives his celibacy without a grounding in its proper meaning and spirit will be a lonely, unhappy man – and little use to his people.
First bishop ordained in China since Sino-Vatican agreement came into force
CHINA-VATICAN Jining, first bishop ordained since Sino-Vatican agreement: Bishop Antonio Yao Shun, 54, is a liturgical expert. He taught many years in the national seminary and studied in the USA and in Jerusalem. Some bishops and faithful in China think that the Pope appointed Msgr. Yao long before the agreement. His motto is that of the 2015-2016 Jubilee: "Be merciful as your Father is".
Cardinal George Pell to appeal to Australian High Court
Cardinal George Pell to appeal to Australian High Court: Cardinal George Pell will appeal his conviction to the Australian High Court, following the decision last week by the Court of Appeal in Victoria to uphold his conviction for child sexual abuse.
Sources close to the cardinal told CNA Aug. 26 that Pell would be exercising his final appeal and that, while the majority of “special leave to appeal” cases were not granted by the High Court, his case would likely be accepted given the controversy triggered by the split decision of the Appeal Court judgement.
In seeking to take his case to the High Court in Canberra, Australia’s supreme court, Pell will be exercising his last legal avenue to overturn a conviction which has divided opinion in the country and internationally.
Sources close to the cardinal told CNA Aug. 26 that Pell would be exercising his final appeal and that, while the majority of “special leave to appeal” cases were not granted by the High Court, his case would likely be accepted given the controversy triggered by the split decision of the Appeal Court judgement.
In seeking to take his case to the High Court in Canberra, Australia’s supreme court, Pell will be exercising his last legal avenue to overturn a conviction which has divided opinion in the country and internationally.
Here’s our core plague: We don’t know who we are, who we belong to, where we are going...
Mary Eberstadt's ‘Primal Screams’: On the Sexual Revolution & Identity Politics | National ReviewLOPEZ: Airports are places of joy, someone said to me a number of months ago — which actually startled me. I was asking him about joy in the world, and that was about the last thing I expected him to come back with. Sometimes when I’m in an airport, I’m overwhelmed by how transitory so many of us seem. And how casual we are about it. I get nostalgic for a time I never knew, when, as I hear, people got dressed up and prepared for the experience (one they had not even close to every other week) because it was much more pleasant than it is now and because it was a big deal to leave home.
Sunday, August 25, 2019
Another look at the Pope’s encounter with the autistic girl
Pope Francis Greets an Autistic Girl | Matthew SchneiderSCHNEIDER: Pope Francis greeted an autistic girl from Naples at his Wednesday audience this week. It took me a bit to see the video but I want to include the video, the article, and some commentary. The Catholic Register (from Canada) carried the story. During the Aug. 21 gathering in the Paul VI Audience Hall at the Vatican, Clelia Manfellotti, a 10-year-old girl from Naples diagnosed with autism, walked up the steps to where the Pope was speaking to the crowd.
Why returning to tradition speaks to Catholic millennials like me
Opinion: Why returning to tradition speaks to Catholic millennials like me - oregonlive.com: I was very disappointed by your Aug. 11 article, "Reverence and Resistance in one of Portland’s oldest Catholic churches." As a Catholic millennial who is one of many in my generation seeking and supporting a more liturgically traditional church, I found the piece to be painfully one-sided and unhelpful to the discussion of spirituality and Catholicism in America today. Your article certainly covered the resistance; but where was the reverence?
Pope’s Sunday Angelus: Mary helps Christians enter Heaven through the ‘narrow gate’
Pope Francis: Mary Helps Christians Enter Heaven Through the ‘Narrow Gate’: The way to heaven is difficult and the gate to enter small, but Jesus’ mother, Mary, who herself entered through the narrow gate, will help those who ask, Pope Francis said Sunday.
Mary can be invoked under the title “Gate of Heaven,” he explained in his Angelus address Aug. 25.
“She welcomed [Jesus] with all her heart and followed him every day of her life, even when she did not understand, even when a sword pierced her soul.”
The Blessed Virgin Mary is “a gate that exactly follows the form of Jesus: the gate of the heart of Jesus, demanding, but open to all,” he said. “May the Virgin Mary help us in this.”
Pope Francis reflected on the day’s Gospel passage from Luke, when someone asks Jesus, “Lord, will only a few people be saved?”
Mary can be invoked under the title “Gate of Heaven,” he explained in his Angelus address Aug. 25.
“She welcomed [Jesus] with all her heart and followed him every day of her life, even when she did not understand, even when a sword pierced her soul.”
The Blessed Virgin Mary is “a gate that exactly follows the form of Jesus: the gate of the heart of Jesus, demanding, but open to all,” he said. “May the Virgin Mary help us in this.”
Pope Francis reflected on the day’s Gospel passage from Luke, when someone asks Jesus, “Lord, will only a few people be saved?”
An invitation to St. Augustine’s ‘City of God’
An Invitation to Augustine’s "City of God" ~ The Imaginative ConservativeKRAUSE: In A.D. 410, the city of Rome was sacked by the Visigoths. Rome was not the capital of the Western half of the Roman Empire at the time. But Rome, in her mystique and mythos, was the heart of the Roman vision and the civilized world. To be Roman, or to have the honor of Roman citizenship, invoked that city over all the other cities of the empire. As such, Rome remained the spiritual capital of the Western Roman Empire and its people.
Upon hearing the news of Alaric’s entry into the city and three days of looting, St. Jerome famously said “the city which had taken the whole world was itself taken.” While undoubtedly reflective of Jerome’s florid style, there is a great truth to what Jerome said. Before Alaric and the Visigoths stormed into the city to settle an old debt unpaid for their service to the empire, Rome’s hand stretched across the Mediterranean. Rome was the mythic city which had supposedly brought peace and civilization to much of the known world. Rome was also the city in which Christians and pagans alike had staked their livelihoods and hopes.
Upon hearing the news of Alaric’s entry into the city and three days of looting, St. Jerome famously said “the city which had taken the whole world was itself taken.” While undoubtedly reflective of Jerome’s florid style, there is a great truth to what Jerome said. Before Alaric and the Visigoths stormed into the city to settle an old debt unpaid for their service to the empire, Rome’s hand stretched across the Mediterranean. Rome was the mythic city which had supposedly brought peace and civilization to much of the known world. Rome was also the city in which Christians and pagans alike had staked their livelihoods and hopes.
Saturday, August 24, 2019
Sunday Firesides: The Birthday Empathy Test
Sunday Firesides: The Birthday Empathy Test | The Art of Manliness: When it’s your birthday, you’re thoroughly aware of this fact. It’s at the forefront of your mind. You feel a sense of expectation. You hope for a good day, for a surprise, for recognition of the date by others.
When it’s a friend’s or loved one’s birthday, the day doesn’t feel any different to you. It’s not at the top of your mind. In fact, if social media didn’t tip you off, you’d likely forget the date had any significance at all.
When it’s a friend’s or loved one’s birthday, the day doesn’t feel any different to you. It’s not at the top of your mind. In fact, if social media didn’t tip you off, you’d likely forget the date had any significance at all.
Encountering dragons: Cultural proof for the devil’s existence
Encountering Dragons: Cultural Proof for the Devil’s Existence – Building Catholic CultureSTAUDT: The Superior of the Jesuits, Fr. Arturo Sosa, recently denied the personal existence of the devil, calling him a personification of evil rather than an actual being–a symbol, he argued. He was quickly corrected by exorcists, who know the devil’s reality from personal experience. It is true that the Catechism speaks of Genesis as using “symbolic language” in the Creation account, but this would mean that the serpent may be a symbol for the devil, not that the devil does not exist. The Hebrew word for snake, nawkhawsh, could be interpreted as dragon, which would make sense given that the serpent did begin with legs. There are several other Old Testament references to dragons, but the the closest parallel to Genesis comes in Revelation 12 where the dragon, identified as the same serpent in Rev. 20:2, does battle with the new Eve. Thus, the Bible begins and ends with the struggle with the serpent/dragon.
How Silver Bullet Syndrome has infected the Catholic Church
How Silver Bullet Syndrome Has Infected The Catholic Church - Catholic Missionary Disciples - College Station, TXLEJEUNE: If I told you that you could transform your local parish culture in 5 easy steps, would you want to know what those steps were? Even if those steps were hard, would you be willing to work to achieve change? Would you be willing to pay a steep price to get access to these steps? If you respond “yes”, then you have “Silver Bullet Syndrome”. This isn’t a real syndrome, but bears a truth and the truth is that we all want easy solutions to difficult problems.
Catholic leaders have been falling prey to Silver Bullet Syndrome for generations. Parishes buy the next hot video series, pastors implement new leadership strategies, DREs implement new curricula, Youth Ministers go to the best conferences, Bishops hire consultants to lead new pastoral planning processes, diocesan leaders buy boxes of books and give them away, etc. We have done these things for many years, looking for the quick and easy steps that will transform us and our parish culture.
Catholic leaders have been falling prey to Silver Bullet Syndrome for generations. Parishes buy the next hot video series, pastors implement new leadership strategies, DREs implement new curricula, Youth Ministers go to the best conferences, Bishops hire consultants to lead new pastoral planning processes, diocesan leaders buy boxes of books and give them away, etc. We have done these things for many years, looking for the quick and easy steps that will transform us and our parish culture.
What life is like for an Augustinian
New Advent: What life is like for an Augustinian: Fr. Max Villeneuve describes his journey to the priesthood while living religious life with his Augustinian brothers.
Renowned Yale computer science professor leaves Darwinism
Renowned Yale Computer Science Prof Leaves Darwinism | The Stream: He’s not giving up Darwinism without some remorse. “It means one less beautiful idea in our world,” says David Gelernter.
This isn’t someone you’d expect to reject Darwin. He lives and works at the heart of the intellectual establishment. He’s a renowned computer scientist at Yale University — the New York Times called him a “rock star” — and served on the National Council on the Arts. He explained in a recent essay in the Claremont Review of Books why he no longer believes Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution. He makes similar points in a recent interview with the Hoover Institution’s Peter Robinson.
This isn’t someone you’d expect to reject Darwin. He lives and works at the heart of the intellectual establishment. He’s a renowned computer scientist at Yale University — the New York Times called him a “rock star” — and served on the National Council on the Arts. He explained in a recent essay in the Claremont Review of Books why he no longer believes Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution. He makes similar points in a recent interview with the Hoover Institution’s Peter Robinson.
Liberals fail to practice what they preach about tolerance
Liberals fail to practise what they preach about tolerance: It is testament to the fact that so little has happened this August that column inches in a number of major newspapers have been devoted to what, by any standards, was a complete non-story: the attendance at a conservative political conference in Washington, DC, of the president of Young Fine Gael.
Joining the chorus on this matter, Irish Times columnist Una Mullally weighed in. The most interesting aspect of her argument was her criticism of those who suggested that the invective being directed towards this young man was evidence of intolerance from the political left.
Joining the chorus on this matter, Irish Times columnist Una Mullally weighed in. The most interesting aspect of her argument was her criticism of those who suggested that the invective being directed towards this young man was evidence of intolerance from the political left.
What Jeffrey Epstein got right
What Jeffrey Epstein Got Right – Theopolis Institute: Jeffrey Epstein called our bluff. Writing in the New York Times, James B. Stewart reports Epstein’s opinion that “criminalizing sex with teenage girls was a cultural aberration and that at times in history it was perfectly acceptable.” What’s wrong with what Epstein reportedly said? To begin with, he was too generous. What we now condemn as statutory rape didn’t just occur “at times in history.” The unpleasant truth is that, historically speaking, using children, even relatively young children, as objects for men’s sexual satisfaction has been the rule, not the exception. What we call “child abuse” is a recent category. It is not at all part of the way ancient peoples thought or acted.
Exorcists to Jesuit head: Satan is real
Exorcists to Jesuit head: Satan is real: An international organization of Catholic exorcists said Thursday that the existence of Satan as a real and personal being is a truth of Christin doctrine.
“The real existence of the devil, as a personal subject who thinks and acts and has made the choice of rebellion against God, is a truth of faith that has always been part of Christian doctrine,” the International Association of Exorcists said in an Aug. 22 press release.
The organization’s release came in response to recent remarks on the devil from Jesuit superior general Fr. Arturo Sosa, SJ, which the organization called “grave and confusing.”
“The real existence of the devil, as a personal subject who thinks and acts and has made the choice of rebellion against God, is a truth of faith that has always been part of Christian doctrine,” the International Association of Exorcists said in an Aug. 22 press release.
The organization’s release came in response to recent remarks on the devil from Jesuit superior general Fr. Arturo Sosa, SJ, which the organization called “grave and confusing.”
Cardinal Pell’s unsuccessful appeal — and reason for hope
Cardinal Pell’s Unsuccessful Appeal — and Reason for HopeBRADLEY: The Court of Appeal of the state of Victoria late Tuesday (Wednesday morning in Australia) dismissed Cardinal George Pell’s appeal from his sexual-abuse conviction. That conviction came at the end of a second trial on five counts of indecency with a minor, after a first jury could not agree on a verdict. (Reliable reports indicated that a majority of those jurors favored acquittal.) He was sentenced to six years, without the possibility of parole until November 2022. Cardinal Pell’s lawyers plan a further appeal to the Australian High Court. That process is likely to take up to a year. During the interim, the cardinal will remain in a Melbourne prison.
Why it’s almost impossible to kick a 90-yard field goal
New Advent: Why it’s almost impossible to kick a 90-yard field goal: The world record for an NFL field goal is 64 yards, but place kickers have sent the ball far further in practice. Is a 90 yard kick possible? To find out, WIRED's Robbie Gonzalez explores the physics of long kicks and gets a lesson from pro kicker Harrison Butker.
On narratives about popes and allowing oneself to be surprised
On narratives about popes and allowing oneself to be surprisedALLEN: This Wednesday happened to be the feast of St. Pius X, who served as pope from 1903 to 1914 and whose primary claim to fame was unleashing an “anti-modernist” purge in the Catholic Church, the targets of which were a loosely defined network of Biblical scholars, theologians and others trying, in various ways, to reconcile the faith with science and modern thought.
Pius X issued an encyclical in 1907, Pascendi Dominici Gregis, which was more or less the charter document of the campaign, describing “modernism” as “the synthesis of all heresies.” He also imposed an “anti-modernist oath” on all clergy that lasted until 1967.
Here’s what makes this interesting: If you run a Google search using the keywords “Pope Francis” and “modernism,” you’ll get more than a half-million results, most of them accusing Francis of being a modernist himself.
Pius X issued an encyclical in 1907, Pascendi Dominici Gregis, which was more or less the charter document of the campaign, describing “modernism” as “the synthesis of all heresies.” He also imposed an “anti-modernist oath” on all clergy that lasted until 1967.
Here’s what makes this interesting: If you run a Google search using the keywords “Pope Francis” and “modernism,” you’ll get more than a half-million results, most of them accusing Francis of being a modernist himself.
Friday, August 23, 2019
9 questions about the Hong Kong protests you were too embarrassed to ask
Hong Kong protests: 9 questions you were too embarrassed to ask - Vox: Protesters filled Hong Kong International airport last week. Many wore black, the unofficial uniform of these demonstrations. They carried signs and decorated the walls and floors with messages explaining why they’re rallying, disrupting the transit hub. Some taped bandages to their eyes, dripping with red ink to represent the injury to a female volunteer medic after she was hit with a beanbag round, allegedly fired by police during a protest last weekend.
Agreement reached on permanent Holy See representative to Vietnam
Agreement reached on permanent Holy See representative to Vietnam: A Holy See-Vietnam diplomacy working group, which met inside the Vatican this week, reached an agreement on establishing a permanent resident papal representative to the southeast Asian country.
A resident papal representative is considered an intermediary step in diplomatic relations, below an apostolic nuncio.
The Holy See and Vietnam have never had full diplomatic relations, but have been engaged in formal bilateral discussions since 2009. The Aug. 21-22 summit was the eighth meeting of the working group, which had previously met in Hanoi in December 2018.
A resident papal representative is considered an intermediary step in diplomatic relations, below an apostolic nuncio.
The Holy See and Vietnam have never had full diplomatic relations, but have been engaged in formal bilateral discussions since 2009. The Aug. 21-22 summit was the eighth meeting of the working group, which had previously met in Hanoi in December 2018.
Pan-Amazonian pandemic: A pivotal moment in the Catholic Church
Pan-Amazonian Pandemic: A Pivotal Moment in the ChurchPOPE: Western culture has brought great blessings to this world! Though Western culture draws deeply from the fonts of the Old Testament and ancient Greece and Rome, it is in the Christian era that it especially flourished.
The emergence of the powerful gospel vision led to the rise of monasteries that preserved scripture and other knowledge. From these came universities and the emergence of branches of learning that have enriched the world and led to unprecedented understanding of God’s creation. Western literature, art, poetry, music and architecture have blessed the world. The study of justice in the Western world has given rise to a body of law and a legal system that has helped to ensure greater justice and has even led to the development of international law. The rise of hospitals in the early Christian era and medical study that followed in the West has driven back disease, dramatically lowered infant mortality, and relieved an enormous amount of human suffering. Modern Western economies have raised the standard of living for huge numbers of people, drawing many out of crushing poverty and subsistence living, and making food and consumer goods available in rich variety. Agricultural sciences have almost miraculously raised crop yields such that abundant food can be made available worldwide. Forest management has permitted us to reap the copious benefits of trees yet keep our forests from being depleted through replanting and other care.
The emergence of the powerful gospel vision led to the rise of monasteries that preserved scripture and other knowledge. From these came universities and the emergence of branches of learning that have enriched the world and led to unprecedented understanding of God’s creation. Western literature, art, poetry, music and architecture have blessed the world. The study of justice in the Western world has given rise to a body of law and a legal system that has helped to ensure greater justice and has even led to the development of international law. The rise of hospitals in the early Christian era and medical study that followed in the West has driven back disease, dramatically lowered infant mortality, and relieved an enormous amount of human suffering. Modern Western economies have raised the standard of living for huge numbers of people, drawing many out of crushing poverty and subsistence living, and making food and consumer goods available in rich variety. Agricultural sciences have almost miraculously raised crop yields such that abundant food can be made available worldwide. Forest management has permitted us to reap the copious benefits of trees yet keep our forests from being depleted through replanting and other care.
Thursday, August 22, 2019
Some advice from Mother Church
Some Advice from Mother Church - Community in MissionPOPE: Given our brief sampling of the Book of Ruth in daily Mass, perhaps a reflection is in order. The detailed background to the text is too lengthy to go into here, but a few points will help. The story features three main characters: Boaz, Ruth, and Naomi. Boaz is clearly a picture (or “type”) of Christ. He was born and lives in Bethlehem; he ultimately acts as Ruth’s “kinsman-redeemer” by rescuing her from poverty and paying the price so as to cancel her debt. This, of course, is just what Christ does for us: He redeems us by His blood, canceling our poverty and debt. Ruth is a picture of the individual soul in need of Christ’s redemption and mercy. Naomi plays several roles in the book, but in the passage we will consider here she is a picture of the Church; she advises Ruth in what to do and draws her to Boaz, her redeemer.
What the devil did the Jesuit superior general just say?
What the Devil Did the Jesuit Superior General Just Say?: Pat Cross cartoon on news item: Jesuit Superior General: Satan is a ‘Symbolic Reality’
That time two comic artists independently created Dennis the Menace on the same day an ocean apart
That Time Two Comic Artist Independently Created Dennis the Menace on the Same Day an Ocean Apart: We’ve talked before about the bizarre Hollywood phenomenon of Twin Films – essentially films with near identical premises inexplicably released around the same time – and all of the machinations that can lead to them existing. Today, rather than focusing on an industry wide trend, we’re going to discuss a specific example of something similar- the bizarre tale of the time two comic artists based in the UK and US respectively somehow both created Dennis the Menace at almost the same time, with the first editions of each published on the exact same day, despite neither one knowing anything about what the other was doing.
These are the signs of a good education
The Signs of a Good Education ~ The Imaginative ConservativePEARCE: As the new school year gets under way, it’s a good time to be thinking about the quality of education that our children are getting, or in all too many cases the education that they are not getting.
The first test of what constitutes a good education is the way that one of the most important questions is asked and answered. It is Pilate’s famous question to Christ: Quid est veritas? What is truth? If the asking of this question is not at the heart of a school’s curriculum, it is not a school offering a true education. If, on the other hand, the question is asked but only with the tired indifference of the relativist who believes that it is a question that is unanswerable, the school is likewise failing to offer an authentic education. The question needs to be asked as one that needs to be answered and, furthermore, as one to which the answer is ultimately knowable and known.
The first test of what constitutes a good education is the way that one of the most important questions is asked and answered. It is Pilate’s famous question to Christ: Quid est veritas? What is truth? If the asking of this question is not at the heart of a school’s curriculum, it is not a school offering a true education. If, on the other hand, the question is asked but only with the tired indifference of the relativist who believes that it is a question that is unanswerable, the school is likewise failing to offer an authentic education. The question needs to be asked as one that needs to be answered and, furthermore, as one to which the answer is ultimately knowable and known.
Don’t underestimate the Vatican’s power in Italian politics
Don’t underestimate the Vatican’s power in Italian politics — Religion UnpluggedLISI: The Tiber River cuts through Rome in the shape of a serpent, splitting the ancient city in half. On one side is the Vatican, home to the Catholic Church with the large dome of St. Peter’s Basilica looming over the city’s skyline. Directly across from the Vatican is Palazzo Montecitorio, seat of the Italian parliament. It is a place many Italians despise because it houses bickering politicians.
These two forces, within miles of each other, yet far apart in so many other ways, could come into renewed conflict over the coming weeks. Italy’s government was plunged into chaos this past Tuesday when the nationalist-populist coalition that had struck fear across the European establishment fell apart. It means that Italians could be going to the ballot box once again in late October. It’s also a sign of how powerful the Catholic Church remains, mostly behind the scenes, in helping to determine the country’s political outcomes.
These two forces, within miles of each other, yet far apart in so many other ways, could come into renewed conflict over the coming weeks. Italy’s government was plunged into chaos this past Tuesday when the nationalist-populist coalition that had struck fear across the European establishment fell apart. It means that Italians could be going to the ballot box once again in late October. It’s also a sign of how powerful the Catholic Church remains, mostly behind the scenes, in helping to determine the country’s political outcomes.
A little take on the Catholic Twitter working mom controversy
The working mother – Mama Needs CoffeeUEBBING: She rises at dawn to lace up her running shoes, logging hard-won miles in the gray light of morning. She is up before the sun with a sick baby, a nursing baby, an anxious kindergartener, making toast and oatmeal and gestures of comfort. She is still asleep at dawn because the baby nursed four times last night.
She leaves the house by seven to get the kids to school, to get to her office, to get to the grocery store because the milk ran out. She is stuck in the house into well past noon with a sick child, a handicapped child, a crowd of many children whose number overwhelms her capacity to mind them all in the grocery store.
She leaves the house by seven to get the kids to school, to get to her office, to get to the grocery store because the milk ran out. She is stuck in the house into well past noon with a sick child, a handicapped child, a crowd of many children whose number overwhelms her capacity to mind them all in the grocery store.
Fr. Sosa’s remarks on the devil warrant an official response from Church authorities
Rev. Sosa’s remarks on the devil warrant official response | In the Light of the LawEDPETERS: The existence of the devil as a personal reality, and not merely as a symbol of evil, is an article of faith (Ott, Fundamentals 126-131; CCC 395, 2851). Denial of an article of faith is an element of the canonical crime of heresy (1983 CIC 751), an act punishable by measures up to and including excommunication, dismissal from the clerical state, and/or loss of ecclesiastical office.
Rev. Arturo Sosa, SJ, superior general of the Society of Jesus, denies the personal reality of the devil, describes him instead as a symbol of evil, and has expressed such views before (CNA article here, Catholic Herald article here). Protestations of Sosa’s orthodoxy by Jesuit spokesmen notwithstanding, Sosa speaks for himself, and clearly. I think his remarks warrant response, not just from bloggers and scholars, but from those placed in authority over such matters.
Rev. Arturo Sosa, SJ, superior general of the Society of Jesus, denies the personal reality of the devil, describes him instead as a symbol of evil, and has expressed such views before (CNA article here, Catholic Herald article here). Protestations of Sosa’s orthodoxy by Jesuit spokesmen notwithstanding, Sosa speaks for himself, and clearly. I think his remarks warrant response, not just from bloggers and scholars, but from those placed in authority over such matters.
Jesuit superior general says he rejects Catholic dogma about Satan’s existence
Jesuit Superior General: Satan is a ‘Symbolic Reality’: The superior general of the Society of Jesus said Aug. 21 that the devil is a symbol, but not a person.
The devil, “exists as the personification of evil in different structures, but not in persons, because is not a person, is a way of acting evil. He is not a person like a human person. It is a way of evil to be present in human life,” Jesuit Father Arturo Sosa said Wednesday in an interview with Italian magazine Tempi.
“Good and evil are in a permanent war in the human conscience and we have ways to point them out. We recognize God as good, fully good. Symbols are part of reality, and the devil exists as a symbolic reality, not as a personal reality,” he added.
Father Sosa’s remarks came after he participated in a panel discussion at a Catholic gathering in Rimini, Italy, organized by the Communion and Liberation ecclesial movement.
The devil, “exists as the personification of evil in different structures, but not in persons, because is not a person, is a way of acting evil. He is not a person like a human person. It is a way of evil to be present in human life,” Jesuit Father Arturo Sosa said Wednesday in an interview with Italian magazine Tempi.
“Good and evil are in a permanent war in the human conscience and we have ways to point them out. We recognize God as good, fully good. Symbols are part of reality, and the devil exists as a symbolic reality, not as a personal reality,” he added.
Father Sosa’s remarks came after he participated in a panel discussion at a Catholic gathering in Rimini, Italy, organized by the Communion and Liberation ecclesial movement.
The ‘ring of truth’ is all it took to keep Cardinal Pell in prison
‘Ring of Truth’ Enough to Keep Cardinal Pell in PrisonDESOUZA: The “ring of truth.”
The two justices who denied the appeal of Cardinal George Pell Aug. 21 said that the complainant’s testimony had the “ring of truth.” If so, they were able to detect the tinkle of a sanctuary bell, even though contradictory evidence was pouring forth from the cathedral organ at top volume, with all stops pulled.
The denial of Cardinal Pell’s appeal is catastrophic for his liberty, as he was returned to prison, where he has been kept in solitary confinement for 176 days. He has been refused permission to celebrate Mass.
The ruling, delivered 2-1 by a three-judge panel of the Victorian Court of Appeal, is catastrophic on another level. A new standard is being proposed for what is required for conviction beyond a reasonable doubt.
The two justices who denied the appeal of Cardinal George Pell Aug. 21 said that the complainant’s testimony had the “ring of truth.” If so, they were able to detect the tinkle of a sanctuary bell, even though contradictory evidence was pouring forth from the cathedral organ at top volume, with all stops pulled.
The denial of Cardinal Pell’s appeal is catastrophic for his liberty, as he was returned to prison, where he has been kept in solitary confinement for 176 days. He has been refused permission to celebrate Mass.
The ruling, delivered 2-1 by a three-judge panel of the Victorian Court of Appeal, is catastrophic on another level. A new standard is being proposed for what is required for conviction beyond a reasonable doubt.
Aussie headaches on Pell case could be child’s play compared to Rome’s
Aussie headaches on Pell case could be child’s play compared to Rome’sALLEN: Up to this point, the ire of those who believe Cardinal George Pell is innocent of the charges of child sexual abuse brought against him in his home country has been directed largely at the Australian judiciary, most recently at a Victoria appeals court that upheld his conviction on Wednesday in a 2-1 split decision.
Assuming that ruling holds up, however, such frustration could quickly shift from the Australian system to the Vatican’s, because that’s where the action would be next - and honestly, the heartburn there could be much more intense.
Let’s begin with this: There’s a sizeable swath of Catholic opinion, encompassing both historic friends of Pell and enemies, which regards the charges upon which he was convicted as deeply implausible.
Assuming that ruling holds up, however, such frustration could quickly shift from the Australian system to the Vatican’s, because that’s where the action would be next - and honestly, the heartburn there could be much more intense.
Let’s begin with this: There’s a sizeable swath of Catholic opinion, encompassing both historic friends of Pell and enemies, which regards the charges upon which he was convicted as deeply implausible.
Mary Queen of Heaven? Where’s that in the Bible?
Mary Queen of Heaven – Where’s That in the Bible? – Fr. Dwight LongeneckerLONGENECKER: Calling Mary the “Queen of Heaven” seems to most non-Catholics a title too far. How can the simple girl from Nazareth be “Queen of Heaven”? Isn’t that a pagan term? In fact, isn’t the “Queen of Heaven” actually condemned in the Bible? In Jeremiah 44 the Hebrews are blamed for turning back to false gods and they admit that they were making cakes and burning incense to the Queen of Heaven. That’s what Catholic do right? They burn incense and light candles and eat little cookies all in honor of the Queen of Heaven. Well, not quite.
The Queenship of Mary is deeply rooted in Scripture
The Queenship of Mary is Deeply Rooted in ScriptureSCHIFFER: Pope Pius XII established Aug. 22 as the Memorial of the Queenship of Mary in 1954; but Mary’s role as queen over the universal Church finds its roots in the Scriptures.
At the Annunciation, the archangel Gabriel announced that Mary’s Son would rule forever on the throne of David.
At the Visitation, Elizabeth called Mary the “mother of my Lord.”
The Old Testament foreshadows this queenship of Mary, by teaching us about the honor accorded to the Queen Mother in Israelite society. In his book Hail, Holy Queen: The Mother of God in the Word of God, theologian Dr. Scott Hahn writes and speaks about the “Queen Mother,” called the “gebirah” in Hebrew. In traditional Jewish life, the “gebirah” occupied a unique and powerful position throughout the history of ancient Israel’s monarchy. When the Queen Mother, or gebirah, entered the room, the king would rise to his feet as a sign of respect; and the king always acceded to his mother’s wishes.
At the Annunciation, the archangel Gabriel announced that Mary’s Son would rule forever on the throne of David.
At the Visitation, Elizabeth called Mary the “mother of my Lord.”
The Old Testament foreshadows this queenship of Mary, by teaching us about the honor accorded to the Queen Mother in Israelite society. In his book Hail, Holy Queen: The Mother of God in the Word of God, theologian Dr. Scott Hahn writes and speaks about the “Queen Mother,” called the “gebirah” in Hebrew. In traditional Jewish life, the “gebirah” occupied a unique and powerful position throughout the history of ancient Israel’s monarchy. When the Queen Mother, or gebirah, entered the room, the king would rise to his feet as a sign of respect; and the king always acceded to his mother’s wishes.
Where are the young? Familiar religion ghosts in Washington Post report on Maine’s aging crisis
Where are the young? Familiar religion ghosts in WPost report on Maine's aging crisis — GetReligionMATTINGLY: If you have followed international news about abortion and demographics, you are used to seeing headlines such as the following in the New York Times, focusing on a side effect of China’s infamous one-child policy.
That headline: “Teenage Brides Trafficked to China Reveal Ordeal: ‘Ma, I’ve Been Sold’.”
Selling brides? Here is a crucial piece of background material in this must-read piece. Some government policies, you see, have unintended side effects. Now, it may seem like a stretch, but when I read that Times piece I thought about a stunningly depressing business story that ran the other day in The Washington Post.
That headline: “Teenage Brides Trafficked to China Reveal Ordeal: ‘Ma, I’ve Been Sold’.”
Selling brides? Here is a crucial piece of background material in this must-read piece. Some government policies, you see, have unintended side effects. Now, it may seem like a stretch, but when I read that Times piece I thought about a stunningly depressing business story that ran the other day in The Washington Post.
Wednesday, August 21, 2019
Pope gives sick girl free run of audience stage, delighting crowd
Pope gives sick girl free run of audience stage, delighting crowd - Reuters: Pope Francis allowed a girl suffering from an undisclosed illness to move around undisturbed clapping and dancing on the stage for most of his general audience on Wednesday, delighting the crowd.
The girl, wearing a pink T-shirt reading “Love,” slipped away from her mother at the front of the audience hall and reached the big marble stage. She pranced back and forth in front of him, jumped, and occasionally let go a loud, sharp clap.
The girl, wearing a pink T-shirt reading “Love,” slipped away from her mother at the front of the audience hall and reached the big marble stage. She pranced back and forth in front of him, jumped, and occasionally let go a loud, sharp clap.
Ruling cements Pell’s profile as the Dreyfus or Hiss of the Catholic abuse crisis
Ruling cements Pell's profile as the Dreyfus or Hiss of the Catholic abuse crisisALLEN: Although Australian Cardinal George Pell’s appeal of a conviction on child sexual abuse charges was rejected Wednesday, that ruling may not be the end of the legal road. As of this writing, Pell’s attorneys were still weighing whether to file a final appeal to Australia’s High Court. Those attorneys told reporters that Pell continues to maintain his innocence, as he has since the charges first became public in June 2017. Though Pell’s judicial odyssey may not be over, Wednesday’s ruling likely does represent the final word on another aspect of the case: George Pell is now officially the Alfred Dreyfus of the Catholic abuse crisis, meaning that opinions about his guilt or innocence are at least as much a reflection of one’s ideological convictions as about the actual evidence in the case.
The conviction of Pell is an outrage — the case against him could not be proved beyond a reasonable doubt
Cardinal Pell, Scapegoat | Matthew Schmitz | First ThingsSCHMITZ: Pell was charged with sexually abusing two thirteen-year-old choirboys on two occasions—in 1996 and 1997. Only one of those boys is still living. The other was asked by his mother in 2001 whether he had “ever been interfered with or touched up.” He answered no.
The one still living claimed that Pell found the two boys drunk on communion wine in the sacristy of the Melbourne cathedral immediately after Mass one Sunday and forced them to fellate him. The charge is both uncorroborated and implausible. Pell always greeted parishioners immediately after Mass. He was always accompanied in the cathedral by attendants. The vestments he was wearing would have made such an act all but impossible. The communion wine was kept locked in a safe. Choirboys were supervised. The sacristy was bustling after mass.
The one still living claimed that Pell found the two boys drunk on communion wine in the sacristy of the Melbourne cathedral immediately after Mass one Sunday and forced them to fellate him. The charge is both uncorroborated and implausible. Pell always greeted parishioners immediately after Mass. He was always accompanied in the cathedral by attendants. The vestments he was wearing would have made such an act all but impossible. The communion wine was kept locked in a safe. Choirboys were supervised. The sacristy was bustling after mass.
This astonishing decision calls into the gravest doubt the quality of justice in Australia
The Australian Disgrace | George Weigel | First ThingsWEIGEL: There will be much more to be said in the weeks and months ahead about the rejection of Cardinal George Pell’s appeal of his conviction for “historic sexual abuse,” by the 2-1 vote of a three-judge panel of the Supreme Court of Victoria. For the moment, this astonishing, indeed incomprehensible, decision calls into the gravest doubt the quality of justice in Australia—and the possibility of any Catholic cleric charged with sexual abuse to receive a fair trial or a fair consideration of the probity of his trial.
Why Justice Mark Weinberg, the dissenting vote in the Pell appeal, believed George Pell should go free
Why Justice Mark Weinberg believed George Pell should go free: One of the three Court of Appeal judges who heard George Pell's appeal believes there is a "significant possibility" the cardinal did not commit the child sex crimes he's in jail for and would have acquitted him.
Justice Mark Weinberg said he was not convinced by the victim's evidence and could not exclude the possibility that some parts of the former choirboy's testimony were "concocted".
Justice Mark Weinberg said he was not convinced by the victim's evidence and could not exclude the possibility that some parts of the former choirboy's testimony were "concocted".
Yale computer science professor takes a fresh look at stale Darwinism
Getting beyond Darwin - Denver CatholicWEIGEL: Bishop Robert Barron and others working hard to evangelize the “Nones” — young adults without religious conviction — tell us that a major obstacle to a None embracing Christianity is the cultural assumption that Science Explains Everything. And if science explains it all, who needs God, revelation, Christ, or the Church? To be even more specific: if Darwin and the Darwinian theory of evolution explain the origins of us (and everything else), why bother with Genesis 1-3 and Colossians 1:15-20 (much less Augustine’s “Thou hast made us for Thee and our hearts are restless until they rest in Thee”)?
It is better to be hated by the world but be with God
The Double Loss of Being Good for Nothing - Community in MissionPOPE: Never presume that the world and the prince of this world, the devil, love you or are pleased with you. You are just a tool for them to use; when you do connive with them, you are not loved or respected but rather regarded with contempt because you are so easily manipulated. Once you are no longer useful, you will be thrown out and trampled underfoot. This is the worst double loss of all: you are useless to God and useless to the world.
It is better to be hated by the world but be with God, in His love and in service to Him. Curses and hatred from the world will be something of our lot here in this passing world, but such things cannot ultimately hurt us; in fact, they testify on our behalf. In the end, the victory will be ours.
It is better to be hated by the world but be with God, in His love and in service to Him. Curses and hatred from the world will be something of our lot here in this passing world, but such things cannot ultimately hurt us; in fact, they testify on our behalf. In the end, the victory will be ours.
In Brazil, sudden darkness befalls Sao Paulo, baffling thousands
In Brazil, sudden darkness befalls Sao Paulo, baffling thousands - GreenwichTime: In the height of daytime on Monday, the sky suddenly blackened, and day became night in Sao Paulo.
Sure, smog is bad in the Western Hemisphere's largest city, where traffic jams can stretch for dozens of miles. But not this bad. What was going on? Was the end near?
"Apocalypse!" one person cried on Twitter.
"The final judgment is coming!" another added.
"Mordor," one more person intoned.
Sure, smog is bad in the Western Hemisphere's largest city, where traffic jams can stretch for dozens of miles. But not this bad. What was going on? Was the end near?
"Apocalypse!" one person cried on Twitter.
"The final judgment is coming!" another added.
"Mordor," one more person intoned.
Tuesday, August 20, 2019
Cardinal Pell conviction upheld in 2-1 decision
BREAKING: Cardinal Pell’s Sexual-Abuse Conviction Upheld: The conviction of Cardinal George Pell has been upheld by the Court of Appeals in the Australian state of Victoria. A three-judge appellate panel upheld his 2018 conviction for sexual abuse of minors in a divided decision delivered Aug. 21.
“By majority (2 to 1), the Court of Appeals has dismissed Cardinal George Pell’s appeal against his conviction for the commission of sexual offences. He will continue to serve his sentence of 6 years’ imprisonment. He will remain eligible to apply for parole after he has served 3 years 8 months of his sentence,” Chief Justice Anne Ferguson said in her opening remarks in the Supreme Court of Victoria.
“By majority (2 to 1), the Court of Appeals has dismissed Cardinal George Pell’s appeal against his conviction for the commission of sexual offences. He will continue to serve his sentence of 6 years’ imprisonment. He will remain eligible to apply for parole after he has served 3 years 8 months of his sentence,” Chief Justice Anne Ferguson said in her opening remarks in the Supreme Court of Victoria.
Watch: Trailer of ‘A Hidden Life,’ Terrence Malick’s biopic of Blessed Franz J�gerst�tter
New Advent: Watch: Trailer of ‘A Hidden Life,’ Terrence Malick’s biopic of Blessed Franz Jaegerstaetter: Based on real events, Terrence Malick’s A Hidden Life is the story of an unsung hero, Blessed Franz Jägerstätter, who refused to fight for the Nazis in World War II. When the Austrian peasant farmer is faced with the threat of execution for treason, it is his unwavering faith and his love for his wife Fani and children that keeps his spirit alive.
Cardinal Pell conviction upheld in 2-1 decision
WATCH LIVE: Cardinal Pell Appeal Ruling Set for 7:30 p.m. ET: Follow CNA for minute-by-minute updates as the Supreme Court of Australia livestreams the decision announcement here at 7:30 p.m. ET on Tuesday, Aug. 20.
Charleston Bishop stepping back to fight accusation
Charleston Bishop Stepping Back to Fight Accusation: The bishop of Charleston, South Carolina announced he will reduce his public appearances after being named in a lawsuit filed in New York. Bishop Robert Guglielmone announced that he is stepping back from visible leadership of the diocese as he defends himself against an accusation of sexual abuse.
In a letter to the faithful of the diocese, dated Friday and intended for distribution to parishes ahead of Sunday Masses, Guglielmone insisted that he was wholly innocent of the accusation made against him and would fight to clear his name.
“As you know, a lawsuit has been filed against me alleging that I have committed a grievous act,” said the bishop in the Aug. 16 letter.
In a letter to the faithful of the diocese, dated Friday and intended for distribution to parishes ahead of Sunday Masses, Guglielmone insisted that he was wholly innocent of the accusation made against him and would fight to clear his name.
“As you know, a lawsuit has been filed against me alleging that I have committed a grievous act,” said the bishop in the Aug. 16 letter.
‘Happy sailing’: 50-year-old message in a bottle from Soviet navy captain washes up in Alaska
Alaska resident finds 50-year-old message in a bottle tossed from Soviet Navy Capt. Anatoliy Botsanenko in 1969 - The Washington Post: On a breezy summer evening, Tyler Ivanoff took his family on a boat trip to a remote beach in western Alaska. While his children plucked salmonberries on a hillside, Ivanoff searched the coastline for driftwood to use in a campfire. That’s when a green bottle in the sand caught his eye.
The Chrysler air raid siren was so powerful it could induce rain
The Chrysler Air Raid Siren Was So Powerful it Could Induce Rain | Amusing Planet: The Chrysler Air Raid Siren was the size of a car. It measured twelve feet long and six feet high, and weighed an estimated 3 short tons. The gigantic siren was powered by a 180 horsepower eight-cylinder gasoline engine, that drove a two-stage air compressor and a rotary chopper. The compressor pushed 2,610 cubic feet of air a minute, at nearly 7 PSI, through a rotating chopper that sliced the air into pulses to create sound. The compressed air exited through six giant horns with a velocity of 400 miles per hour. This resulted in an incredibly loud sound of 138 dB, measured 100 feet from the siren. The loudness of this siren remains unmatched by any warning device ever produced.
Words of encouragement from the Prophet Micah
Words of Encouragement from the Prophet Micah - Community in MissionPOPE: In the Office of Readings, we have been reading from the Prophet Micah. The book contains much in the way of both warning and consolation for the ancient Jewish people, who saw great destruction all around them. During Micah’s lifetime, he and his fellow Jews in Judah saw the whole of the northern Kingdom of Israel swept away by the Assyrians. In 721 B.C., ten of Israel’s tribes were destroyed; the survivors were scattered and all but lost. The southern Kingdom of Judah, which was also under attack, barely survived, as if by a miracle.
Mary in History: Our Lady of Prompt Succor
Mary in History: Our Lady of Prompt Succor | Parishable ItemsFELTES: Mary as Our Lady of Prompt Succor (which means, “rapid aid”) has been celebrated in New Orleans, Louisiana on this date for more than 200 years since a famous military victory. The Ursuline Sisters in New Orleans had honored a statue of Mary by this title for several years in their chapel, but when the British army threatened to capture their city during the War of 1812 these nuns and many townsfolk spent the night beseeching her help. The convent’s prioress made a vow to have a Mass of Thanksgiving sung annually should the American forces prevail. During Mass the next morning, as Holy Communion was being distributed, a messenger rushed into the chapel with the news that the British had been defeated.
What happens when Christian dialogue ignores the Creed?
What happens when Christian dialogue ignores the Creed? | Knowing Is DoingTORRE: Soon to be Saint Blessed Cardinal John Henry Newman once commented that “true development occurs when Christianity is able to assimilate the surrounding environment, informing and changing its culture, whereas corruption happens when its instead the environment that assimilates Christianity to itself.” A central premise of this statement is the idea that genuine dialogue is based on revealed truth and not an inquiry to truth. In other words, there are distinctive visible realities that exist and do not necessarily need a form of dialogue to determine its natural and visible reality. Instead, sound dialogue seeks to unpack and dive deeper into the realities of revealed truth that is rooted in nature, faith and reason.
Casinos have become the new cathedrals
Casinos: the New Cathedrals – Fr. Dwight LongeneckerLONGENECKER: I first went to a casino when I was visiting Detroit on a speaking engagement. A guy named Bob was my host. He said, “Where do you want to go for lunch Father?”
“Someplace local.”
So Bob took me to the casino. On the way over I said, “Bob. I have a confession to make.”
“What’s that?”
“I’m a casino virgin.”
“Whaddya mean?”
“I’ve never been to a casino before.”
“You’re kiddin me.”
So I told Catholic Bob about my evangelical upbringing and how we didn’t go to movies, smoke, drink or even play cards. We sure didn’t go to casinos.”
So we went to the casino and had lunch and Bob taught me how to play craps.
“Someplace local.”
So Bob took me to the casino. On the way over I said, “Bob. I have a confession to make.”
“What’s that?”
“I’m a casino virgin.”
“Whaddya mean?”
“I’ve never been to a casino before.”
“You’re kiddin me.”
So I told Catholic Bob about my evangelical upbringing and how we didn’t go to movies, smoke, drink or even play cards. We sure didn’t go to casinos.”
So we went to the casino and had lunch and Bob taught me how to play craps.
Cardinal Pell’s groundbreaking record on dealing with clergy sexual abuse
Cardinal Pell’s Groundbreaking Record on Dealing With Clergy Sexual AbuseDESOUZA: In the discussion of clerical sexual abuse, Cardinal George Pell now occupies a unique place. He is in fact the highest-ranking Catholic official ever to be criminally charged with the sexual abuse of minors. Other cardinals have had allegations confirmed against them in Church processes — Theodore McCarrick of Washington, Hans Hermann Groër of Vienna — but faced neither criminal charges nor subsequent conviction to date.
The appeals-court verdict, to be delivered Wednesday morning in Melbourne (Tuesday evening in North America), is supremely important, not least for Cardinal Pell’s liberty. But the facts of the case are now widely known, and the appeals-court verdict may not change very many minds. Cardinal Pell, should the conviction be upheld, will remain a man falsely convicted in the considered judgment of many, including this writer.
The appeals-court verdict, to be delivered Wednesday morning in Melbourne (Tuesday evening in North America), is supremely important, not least for Cardinal Pell’s liberty. But the facts of the case are now widely known, and the appeals-court verdict may not change very many minds. Cardinal Pell, should the conviction be upheld, will remain a man falsely convicted in the considered judgment of many, including this writer.
All we are saying is, give the Prince of Peace a chance
Give the Prince of Peace a Chance | Catholic AnswersNASH: It was billed as “three days of peace and music,” but when you’re promoting “sex, drugs and rock ’n’ roll,” and more than 400,000 young adults show up, you’re bound to foster domestic warfare, even if you are at the same time decrying armed conflict overseas.
This isn’t about opposing protests against the Vietnam War, which was raging in August, 1969, when Woodstock took place on Max Yasgur’s dairy farm in rural upstate New York. How the U.S. conducted that lengthy campaign was not fair to the soldiers sent to fight, nor was our pullout in April 1975 fair to the South Vietnamese who had supported us, including Venerable Francis Xavier Nguyen Von Thuan, who endured the crucible of being named the coadjutor Archbishop of Saigon less than a week before the U.S. exit by airlift. Nor is this about failing to appreciate the talented musicians who performed at the gathering.
This isn’t about opposing protests against the Vietnam War, which was raging in August, 1969, when Woodstock took place on Max Yasgur’s dairy farm in rural upstate New York. How the U.S. conducted that lengthy campaign was not fair to the soldiers sent to fight, nor was our pullout in April 1975 fair to the South Vietnamese who had supported us, including Venerable Francis Xavier Nguyen Von Thuan, who endured the crucible of being named the coadjutor Archbishop of Saigon less than a week before the U.S. exit by airlift. Nor is this about failing to appreciate the talented musicians who performed at the gathering.
Monday, August 19, 2019
Rhoda Wise ‘miracle house’ in Ohio draws pilgrims amid sainthood push
'Miracle house' in Ohio draws pilgrims amid sainthood push: Late in the summer of 1939, crowds of strangers started showing up at Rhoda Wise’s house next to a city dump in Ohio after she let it be known that miracles were occurring in her room.
Eight decades later, people still make pilgrimages to the wood frame bungalow at the edge of Canton, Ohio, seeking their own miracles. Wise died in 1948, but her legend as a Christian mystic has blossomed with time. And last fall, after years of discussions, the local Roman Catholic diocese petitioned the Vatican to make Wise a saint, renewing interest in her former home.
Eight decades later, people still make pilgrimages to the wood frame bungalow at the edge of Canton, Ohio, seeking their own miracles. Wise died in 1948, but her legend as a Christian mystic has blossomed with time. And last fall, after years of discussions, the local Roman Catholic diocese petitioned the Vatican to make Wise a saint, renewing interest in her former home.
Poland’s bishops, pro-family leaders square off against LGBT ‘revolution of customs and morals’
Law and Justice Party leader praises Polish archbishop for LGBT opposition: The leader of Poland’s ruling party praised the Archbishop of Krakow on Sunday for his opposition to the redefinition of marriage and gender ideology in the country.
Jaroslaw Kaczynski, leader of Poland’s ruling Law and Justice (PiS) Party, said at a campaign event in Southeast Poland on Aug. 18 that he was “grateful” to Archbishop Marek Jędraszewski for his statement earlier this month that attempts to redefine marriage and impose gender ideology in Poland were part of a “rainbow plague.”
Calling the promotion of LGBT ideology a “hard offensive” and a “travelling theatre,” Kaczynski said that “we are the ones who are harmed by this, it must be unmasked and discarded,” Reuters reported on Sunday.
Jaroslaw Kaczynski, leader of Poland’s ruling Law and Justice (PiS) Party, said at a campaign event in Southeast Poland on Aug. 18 that he was “grateful” to Archbishop Marek Jędraszewski for his statement earlier this month that attempts to redefine marriage and impose gender ideology in Poland were part of a “rainbow plague.”
Calling the promotion of LGBT ideology a “hard offensive” and a “travelling theatre,” Kaczynski said that “we are the ones who are harmed by this, it must be unmasked and discarded,” Reuters reported on Sunday.
Here’s how to find out if your MacBook Pro was just banned by the FAA
Here’s How to Find Out If Your MacBook Pro Was Just Banned by the FAA | Mental Floss: Back in June, Apple issued a recall of approximately 460,000 15-inch MacBook Pro laptops sold between September 2015 and February 2017, stating that “the battery may overheat and pose a fire safety risk.” Now, Bloomberg reports that the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has warned airlines to ban those batteries from flights.
Technically, airlines could have started banning the laptops as soon as Apple issued the recall, since 2016 airline safety instructions mandate that all recalled batteries may not fly as cargo or in carry-on baggage. The FAA has essentially alerted them to the recall and reminded them about the existing rules.
Technically, airlines could have started banning the laptops as soon as Apple issued the recall, since 2016 airline safety instructions mandate that all recalled batteries may not fly as cargo or in carry-on baggage. The FAA has essentially alerted them to the recall and reminded them about the existing rules.
The oldest continuously operating library in the world is in this Egyptian monastery
The oldest continuously operating library in the world is in this Egyptian monasteryESPARZA: One of the oldest Christian monasteries in the world still in operation, the Monastery of Saint Catherine in Sinai is home to almost two thousand years of history — and many more years of legend: tradition claims, for example, that the main altar of the monastery is built on the spot where the Burning Bush first addressed Moses.
But the monastery, declared a world heritage site by UNESCO, also holds other seats of honor. For example, it accommodates the oldest continuously operating active library in the world.
But the monastery, declared a world heritage site by UNESCO, also holds other seats of honor. For example, it accommodates the oldest continuously operating active library in the world.
Ecstatic love and Real Presence
Beginning to Pray: Ecstatic Love and Real PresenceLILLES: Ecstasy is a total going out of oneself. It is an abandonment of all else save for what has captured the heart. It is a getting caught up in the beauty, the glory of something - someone outside of myself. Ecstasy is to be rendered fully present to the other - the beloved before me captures my attention until I am aware of nothing else.
There are many kinds of ecstasy. For example, a kiss shared by husband and wife conveys ecstasy. It is a sign of the gift of self that one has made for the other -- the expressed desire to render one's whole life in the service of the other. To say that a marital kiss conveys such suffering passion for the other is to say that this ecstasy is born anew moment by moment in real life sacrifices that each spouse makes for the sake of the other. Each is delighted to receive but even more devoted to give - no matter the cost. For ecstasy loses sight of self-preservation.
There are many kinds of ecstasy. For example, a kiss shared by husband and wife conveys ecstasy. It is a sign of the gift of self that one has made for the other -- the expressed desire to render one's whole life in the service of the other. To say that a marital kiss conveys such suffering passion for the other is to say that this ecstasy is born anew moment by moment in real life sacrifices that each spouse makes for the sake of the other. Each is delighted to receive but even more devoted to give - no matter the cost. For ecstasy loses sight of self-preservation.
Conspiracy theories are not as harmless as they sound
Conspiracy Theories and Gossip – Fr. Dwight LongeneckerLONGENECKER: It’s easy to dismiss conspiracy theorists as your crazy uncle.
You know… listen to them rattling on about false flags, fake moon landings, lizard people and so forth…you listen with mild interest, nod and smile then chuckle and change the subject.
But what if conspiracy theories are actually not the harmless eccentricities of people with a screw loose and too much time on their hands?
What if they are actually sinful?
Think about the similarities to that old fashioned sin gossip.
You know… listen to them rattling on about false flags, fake moon landings, lizard people and so forth…you listen with mild interest, nod and smile then chuckle and change the subject.
But what if conspiracy theories are actually not the harmless eccentricities of people with a screw loose and too much time on their hands?
What if they are actually sinful?
Think about the similarities to that old fashioned sin gossip.
Why comic book artists rely on Catholic symbols to portray religion
Why comic book artists rely on Catholic symbols to portray religion - Voyage Comics & PublishingHEFFRON: While the fight for truth and justice always has spiritual implications, many stories from the DC and Marvel universes do not depict specifically religious practices. We rarely know whether a superhero attends any religious service or has any particular devotional life. However, when Christian faith is depicted, it is usually shown in a surprisingly liturgical and often Catholic manner.
In Daredevil, whether the comics or the recent Netflix series, Matt Murdoch’s Catholic faith is a part of the story. Sometimes, he is struggling with his faith, and at other times relying on it, but either way he regularly shows up at churches. One recent arc in the comics told the entire story from the perspective of Daredevil in a confessional, telling the events to the priest. In connection with this, Catholic imagery frequently appears: traditional-looking churches, clergy in vestments, and statues of saints.
In Daredevil, whether the comics or the recent Netflix series, Matt Murdoch’s Catholic faith is a part of the story. Sometimes, he is struggling with his faith, and at other times relying on it, but either way he regularly shows up at churches. One recent arc in the comics told the entire story from the perspective of Daredevil in a confessional, telling the events to the priest. In connection with this, Catholic imagery frequently appears: traditional-looking churches, clergy in vestments, and statues of saints.
There’s something about the Jeffrey Epstein story that’s just out of the pit of hell
Don’t Drown in Epstein and Other Darkness: We Need Light | National ReviewLOPEZ: I thought that before he apparently killed himself while being held in federal custody. I became more convicted of that as the Saturday-morning news broke and it seemed to be the topic of every conversation, nearly impossible not to comment on. Conspiracy theories, as we well know, filled social media and conversations everywhere. Everything about the story, of course, is the stuff of the most sordid fiction. Except, as with our addiction to national politics, it’s not the next big Netflix series. It’s not something to get consumed by. Truth and justice are essential — in no small part to expose evil to light. But let’s not get all dragged down into every excruciatingly dark detail. Let’s be better custodians of our minds and our hearts and our time.
Undaunted, Justice Clarence Thomas seeks the Supreme Court’s atonement on abortion
Undaunted, Justice Thomas seeks the court’s atonement on abortion: Another Supreme Court term has ended, and once again the court failed to revisit the question of abortion. In our time, it seems that abortion is discussed everywhere except the Supreme Court, where most justices seem intent to do anything to avoid the topic. And still, each passing term, the stain of Roe v. Wade seeps deeper, corroding our system of laws from within.
But one justice is unafraid of the abortion debate. Undismayed by the court’s inaction, Justice Clarence Thomas has masterfully sown together a compelling judicial case for overturning the central holding of Roe. As his nearly three-decade body of work shows, Thomas fights for the integrity of the judiciary, reasoning carefully and speaking powerfully. He knows that the court’s pattern of avoidance is unsustainable, and so he labors for the awaited day.
But one justice is unafraid of the abortion debate. Undismayed by the court’s inaction, Justice Clarence Thomas has masterfully sown together a compelling judicial case for overturning the central holding of Roe. As his nearly three-decade body of work shows, Thomas fights for the integrity of the judiciary, reasoning carefully and speaking powerfully. He knows that the court’s pattern of avoidance is unsustainable, and so he labors for the awaited day.
Sunday, August 18, 2019
Pope Francis: Discover the beauty of prayer in adoration
Pope Francis: Discover the beauty of prayer in adoration: Pope Francis said Sunday that prayer in adoration of God and service to others spreads the fire of God’s love, changing the world one heart at a time.
“I invite everyone to discover the beauty of the prayer of adoration and to exercise it often,” Pope Francis said Aug. 18.
Adoration of God in prayer is necessary to allow the fire of love that Jesus brought to the earth to envelop our entire existence, the pope explained.
In his Angelus address, the pope reflected upon this Sunday’s Gospel from Luke in which Jesus says to his disciples, “I have come to set the earth on fire, and how I wish it were already blazing!”
“I invite everyone to discover the beauty of the prayer of adoration and to exercise it often,” Pope Francis said Aug. 18.
Adoration of God in prayer is necessary to allow the fire of love that Jesus brought to the earth to envelop our entire existence, the pope explained.
In his Angelus address, the pope reflected upon this Sunday’s Gospel from Luke in which Jesus says to his disciples, “I have come to set the earth on fire, and how I wish it were already blazing!”
5 possibilities for a grand Catholic experiment in ‘open innovation’
Five possibilities for a grand Catholic experiment in ‘open innovation’ALLEN: In what could either be seen as a remarkable blow for democracy in the Church, or as a craven ploy for publicity about an asset otherwise consigned to obscurity, the Salesian religious order has thrown open a choice to the public that’s usually reserved to authority.
At issue is this: What to do with a property which, not so long ago, helped form the beating heart of two papacies, but which now is a bit lost and forlorn, as well as economically unsustainable?
At issue is this: What to do with a property which, not so long ago, helped form the beating heart of two papacies, but which now is a bit lost and forlorn, as well as economically unsustainable?
Saturday, August 17, 2019
The battle is engaged — choose your sides!
The Battle Is Engaged – Choose Sides! - Community in MissionPOPE: The readings this Sunday speak of a great cosmic battle that is taking place all around us. In the Gospel, Jesus speaks of it vividly and of his own mission to engage our ancient foe and to gather God’s elect back from the enslaving clutches of Satan, who was a murderer and a liar from the beginning (cf John 8:44).
As Jesus approaches Jerusalem for the final time, He describes the battle that is about to unfold. It is a battle He wins at the Cross and Resurrection, but it is one whose parameters extend across time to our own era.
As Jesus approaches Jerusalem for the final time, He describes the battle that is about to unfold. It is a battle He wins at the Cross and Resurrection, but it is one whose parameters extend across time to our own era.
Will everyone go to Heaven?
The Sacred Page: Will Everyone Go to Heaven? Part IIBERGSMA: I think part of our contemporary struggle with the doctrines of heaven and hell is that we have an inadequate idea of what each place is like.
Most Americans probably think of heaven as like a Disney World in the sky, guarded by gates and either St. Peter, or Jesus, or some angels as gate-keepers. You can get into the eternal amusement park if you've done more "good" than "bad" in your life.
Hell, on the other hand, is like a Nazi concentration camp run by demons as camp guards, and you go there if you've been "really bad."
Most Americans probably think of heaven as like a Disney World in the sky, guarded by gates and either St. Peter, or Jesus, or some angels as gate-keepers. You can get into the eternal amusement park if you've done more "good" than "bad" in your life.
Hell, on the other hand, is like a Nazi concentration camp run by demons as camp guards, and you go there if you've been "really bad."
National collegiate group fans flames of faith in athletes
National Collegiate Group Fans Flames of Faith in AthletesBEATTIE: With college football season around the corner, players and onlookers alike are thinking of passing routes, touchdowns and field goals. However, Catholic sportsman Thomas Wurtz is primarily thinking about God.
Wurtz is the founder of Varsity Catholic, the athletic arm of Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS). Since 2007 he has been heading a team of former athletes who return to college campuses to guide current athletes in their faith.
Wurtz was a quarterback at the University of San Diego in 2001, but due to excessive partying, he left the team for Benedictine College. He later earned a master’s degree in catechetics and evangelization from the Augustine Institute in the Denver, Colorado area. He will soon release a book titled Pursuing Freedom: Becoming the Man You Could Be.
Wurtz is the founder of Varsity Catholic, the athletic arm of Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS). Since 2007 he has been heading a team of former athletes who return to college campuses to guide current athletes in their faith.
Wurtz was a quarterback at the University of San Diego in 2001, but due to excessive partying, he left the team for Benedictine College. He later earned a master’s degree in catechetics and evangelization from the Augustine Institute in the Denver, Colorado area. He will soon release a book titled Pursuing Freedom: Becoming the Man You Could Be.
Relevant Radio purchases Salem Media stations for $17.7 million, increases reach to 220 million people
Relevant Radio Makes Moves to Increase Reach to 220,000,000 persons - Relevant Radio: Relevant Radio has entered into an agreement with Salem Media Group (NASDAQ: SALM) to purchase nine AM stations and four FM translators in eight markets. Salem Media Group has agreed to sell stations to Relevant Radio in Boston, Atlanta, Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, St. Louis, Denver, and Youngstown for $8,732,125. This transaction, combined with purchases earlier this year of Salem stations in Washington, D.C., Miami, and Tampa, will allow Relevant Radio to expand its reach by an additional 60,000,000 persons.
The Bishop of Amsterdam explains Mary to Protestants
Bishop Explains Mary for Protestants - Mother of All Peoples: As Catholics and Protestants together, we honor Mary as the Mother of Christ. All her dignity, all her greatness, comes from him, and from him alone. We agree on that. To fully understand who she is, therefore, we must first take a closer look at him. He is the Son of the Father, “the Son of the Most High”, as the Archangel called him during the Annunciation to the Virgin Mary. She was called to become his mother, an election of dizzying proportions. “From now on, all generations will call me blessed,” Mary rejoiced in her song of praise. Therefore, first we must correctly understand how unjust and unworthy it would be to look at Mary as a kind of “surrogate mother,” a woman the Father needed so that his Son could be born, and after that she could just go. That’s even undignified behavior for men, not to mention for God. If we really believe that Jesus Christ is the true Son of God, as both Catholics and Protestants do, we must acknowledge that there is a unique relationship between the Triune God and this young woman, a relationship that lasts forever. That’s why Catholics call her: ‘Daughter of the Father, Mother of the Son, Bride of the Holy Spirit.”
To found a school
To Found a School – Building Catholic CultureSTAUDT: I’m joyfully anticipating Bl. John Henry Newman’s canonization on October 13th, a momentous day for the Church and for Catholic education in particular. Newman wrote the most comprehensive and in depth work on the nature of Catholic education in his Idea of a University. The book arose from a series of addresses he gave to the faculty of the university he founded in Dublin, the Catholic University of Ireland. I will be visiting his University Church on September 15th as part of my Beauty of Faith pilgrimage to Ireland.
5 must-have school supplies to keep kids on the path to Heaven
5 MUST-HAVE School Supplies to Keep Kids on the Path to Heaven – WE'RE LATE FOR CHURCHGERD: It’s that time again when moms and dads across this great land finish checking off a mile-long list of obscure, annoyingly specific school supplies. We scour the internet, traipse through aisle after aisle of every big box store and office supply emporium around, trying to find the correct color, brand, and amount, at the right price. But there’s always one item at the bottom of the page that is nowhere to be found—that elusive pre-sharpened number 2 red Ticonderoga training marking-pencil with a white eraser fashioned out of rare unicorn dust and angel feathers…?
We are lonely people in search of home. What is missing? From what have we cut ourselves off?
Finding Home amid Ruptured Relationships | National Review: Various metrics confirm that, over the last 30 years there has been a sharp increase in loneliness. Almost one in four Americans (most under the age of 50) feel isolated, many with no person in whom to confide, according to a 2018 study from the Kaiser Family Foundation in partnership with The Economist. Last year in the U.K., the prime minister appointed a “minister for loneliness” in an effort to draw attention to what increasingly is seen as a societal epidemic contributing to depression and other health risks, mental and physical.
Friday, August 16, 2019
Apologetics vs. evangelization? Argument and witness for the sake of others
Apologetics vs. evangelization? Argument and witness for the sake of others | Catholic CultureMIRUS: The purpose of evangelization is to make Christ and the Church known to others so that they might receive the gift of faith and choose to convert to Christianity. It is a work accomplished in close collaboration with the Holy Spirit. The purpose of apologetics, on the other hand, is to clear away obstacles to faith by demonstrating that the claims about Christ, the Church and Catholic teaching are not contrary to reason. Broadly speaking, in other words, the focus of evangelization is on proclaiming the Gospel and the focus of apologetics is on arguing a position.
Drawn near to the Real Presence of Jesus Christ
Beginning to Pray: Drawn Near to the Real Presence - Faith made PerfectLILLES: In the Eucharist, Christ's countenance shines with a personal energy that the Church calls "Real Presence." He is wholly surrendered to us in a way that is meant to bring His passion to bear in our lives. Not passive, He actively enters into our company and knocks at the door of our hearts. He shines on us and evokes the deepest and most tender desires. His subtle presence invites the most radical conversion of heart. In this Sacrament, He can even baptize us in deep silence until our whole being joins the hosts of heaven in the aching joy of hymns of praise. In this Real Presence, His very adoration of the Father can suddenly shake the deepest foundations of our existence.
Heroism and priesthood, Dachau and Amazonia
Heroism and priesthood, Dachau and Amazonia - Denver CatholicWEIGEL: In late June, I visited the concentration camp at Dachau, located in a wooded suburb a few miles from downtown Munich. The camp site struck me as rather too neat: virtually all of the huts in which hundreds of thousands of prisoners lived, starved, and died are gone, and the atmosphere, despite a blistering hot afternoon, was antiseptic. There was little of the miasma of raw evil that remains at Auschwitz and Birkenau, even though Dachau was the prototype for those extermination factories. The Dachau camp site’s Chapel of the Agony of Christ, built after the war, is touching. But, to my mind at least, its stark modernism somehow fails to register the suffering it is intended to commemorate — and transfigure.
Iraqi church formerly defaced by ISIS rededicated on Assumption feast
Iraqi church formerly defaced by ISIS rededicated on Assumption feast: An Iraqi church damaged and defaced by the Islamic State in 2014 was rededicated Thursday for the parish’s celebration of the Feast of the Assumption of Mary.
The Syriac Catholic Church of Mar Behnam and Mart Sarah in the Iraqi city of Qaraqosh welcomed Archbishop Petros Mouche of Mosul, priests, and the local Catholic community to celebrate the solemnity.
Archbishop Mouche rededicated the church's altar, which had been burned by the Islamic State. After renonvations and rebuilding, the interior of the church, once charred black by fire, has been painted white.
The Syriac Catholic Church of Mar Behnam and Mart Sarah in the Iraqi city of Qaraqosh welcomed Archbishop Petros Mouche of Mosul, priests, and the local Catholic community to celebrate the solemnity.
Archbishop Mouche rededicated the church's altar, which had been burned by the Islamic State. After renonvations and rebuilding, the interior of the church, once charred black by fire, has been painted white.
Thursday, August 15, 2019
What should we do about the loss of belief in the Real Presence?
What Should We Do About the Loss of Belief in the Real Presence?POPE: Most of you have probably heard about the recent survey conducted by the Pew Research Center, which found that only 26% of Catholics under age 40 believe in the real presence of Christ in the Holy Eucharist.
There have been two different interpretations of these results. The first is that the numbers show a failure of teaching; poor catechesis is the fundamental cause. The second is that they show a failure in liturgical practice; a desacralized, demystified, less-reverent liturgy is the underlying problem.
There have been two different interpretations of these results. The first is that the numbers show a failure of teaching; poor catechesis is the fundamental cause. The second is that they show a failure in liturgical practice; a desacralized, demystified, less-reverent liturgy is the underlying problem.
Catholic fiction has 3 problems: writers afraid to write, publishers afraid to publish, readers afraid to read
Do Not Be Afraid: Use Your Catholic Imagination | Word on FireSCALIA: It’s been nearly a decade since poet and USC Professor Dana Gioia wrote an essay urging Catholic writers to “renovate and reoccupy” their own tradition within the literary culture, and it is a discussion that has been ongoing among Catholics since then—part of a broad pondering of what the “Christian imagination” means in the twenty-first century, and what it has to offer a society that is ever-more pop-focused, less literary in consumption and increasingly secular and polarized in tastes, to boot.
Italy’s August break recalls that faith may be universal, but Vatican is particular
Italy's August break recalls that faith may be universal, but Vatican is particularALLEN: On the Church’s calendar, today is the feast of the Assumption of Mary, marking belief in the bodily taking up of Mary into Heaven at the end of her earthly life. It was formally defined as a dogma of the Catholic Church by Pope Pius XII in 1950.
For most Italians, however, August 15 has another connotation. It’s known here as ferragosto, an elision of the Latin term Feriae Augusti, meaning “the holidays of the Emperor Augustus.” As the name suggests, it’s a traditional summer break that reaches all the way back to ancient Rome. (Indeed, placing the feast of the Assumption in mid-August likely was an effort to Christianize the older pagan holiday).
For most Italians, however, August 15 has another connotation. It’s known here as ferragosto, an elision of the Latin term Feriae Augusti, meaning “the holidays of the Emperor Augustus.” As the name suggests, it’s a traditional summer break that reaches all the way back to ancient Rome. (Indeed, placing the feast of the Assumption in mid-August likely was an effort to Christianize the older pagan holiday).
The Assumption of Mary is a historical fact with biblical roots
The Biblical Roots of the Assumption of Mary - Community in MissionPOPE: While the actual event of the Assumption of Mary into Heaven is not recorded in the Scriptures, there is a biblical basis for the teaching that, considered as a whole, confirms Catholic teaching as both fitting and in keeping with biblical principles. Let’s ponder this feast in stages. First, to be “assumed” means to be taken up by God bodily into Heaven. As far back as the Church can remember we have celebrated the fact that Mary was taken up into Heaven. We do not just acknowledge that her soul was taken to Heaven, as is the case with the rest of the faithful who are taken there (likely after purgation); rather, Mary was taken up, soul and body, after her sojourn on this earth was complete. There is no earthly tomb containing her body, neither are there relics of her body to be found among the Christian faithful. This is our ancient memory and what we celebrate today, Mary was taken up, body and soul, into Heaven.
Livestreamed DC ‘Theology on Tap’ Q&A prompts investigation of National Shrine rector Msgr. Walter Rossi
Diocese of Scranton Launches Investigation into Rector at National Shrine: The Diocese of Scranton has launched an investigation into allegations of misconduct on the part of Monsignor Walter Rossi, the rector of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington.
“Bishop Joseph Bambera, Bishop of the Diocese of Scranton, has commenced the process of launching a full forensic investigation into the concerns that have been raised,” the diocese told Catholic News Agency Aug. 14.
“Approximately one year ago, concerns were raised in the public sector regarding Monsignor Walter Rossi, a priest who was incardinated in the Diocese of Scranton but who has served more than 20 years at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C.”
“Bishop Joseph Bambera, Bishop of the Diocese of Scranton, has commenced the process of launching a full forensic investigation into the concerns that have been raised,” the diocese told Catholic News Agency Aug. 14.
“Approximately one year ago, concerns were raised in the public sector regarding Monsignor Walter Rossi, a priest who was incardinated in the Diocese of Scranton but who has served more than 20 years at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C.”
12 things to know and share about the Assumption of Mary
The Assumption of Mary: 12 Things to Know and ShareAKIN: August 15 is the solemnity of the Assumption of Mary.
In the United States, it is a holy day of obligation (in years when it does not fall on a Monday).
What is the Assumption of Mary, how did it come to be defined, and what relevance does it have for our lives?
Here are 12 things to know and share...
In the United States, it is a holy day of obligation (in years when it does not fall on a Monday).
What is the Assumption of Mary, how did it come to be defined, and what relevance does it have for our lives?
Here are 12 things to know and share...
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