Alison’s claim binds no one | In the Light of the LawEDPETERS: I had never heard of James Alison until I saw claims about his possessing “the power of the keys” (in virtue of a phone call he allegedly received from Pope Francis) in news feeds and, though I know nothing about his canonical situation beyond what I read in a wiki page dedicated to him (a page insufficient for reliable analysis of his situation), I can offer a few words on his claim in regard to its implications for the celebration of Confession.
Assuming Alison’s ordination was valid (Alison seems to dispute that point and Rome has not ruled on it), and assuming Alison has no ecclesiastical office to which faculties for confession are attached (1983 CIC 967-968), the only way Alison could have faculties for confession (unless a penitent is in danger of death per Canon 976) would be if he was granted them by Francis.
Monday, September 30, 2019
Mont St. Michel: The real-life Minas Tirith
Mont St. Michel: The real-life Minas Tirith - Voyage Comics & PublishingKOSLOSKI: When preparing for the film adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien’s Return of the King, Peter Jackson’s crew turned to a real-life monastic castle that has captivated the imagination of many throughout the centuries.
They looked to Mont St. Michel, a fortified Catholic monastery that was built on a lonely island off the coast of northern France. The mysterious monastery was used as a primary inspiration for the city of Minas Tirith, the capital city of Gondor in Tolkien’s Middle-Earth.
They looked to Mont St. Michel, a fortified Catholic monastery that was built on a lonely island off the coast of northern France. The mysterious monastery was used as a primary inspiration for the city of Minas Tirith, the capital city of Gondor in Tolkien’s Middle-Earth.
Pope Francis replies to ChurchPOP reader after following instructions for sending a letter to the pope
Pope Francis Replies to ChurchPOP Reader After Following Our Instructions for Sending Letter to Pope | ChurchPOP: In Feb. 2018,, we posted “How to Send the Pope a Letter – And Why You Might Get a Response!” The article provides step-by-step instructions as to how to send a letter to the Holy Father.
One ChurchPOP reader sent us Pope Francis’ response after he followed these instructions for sending the pope a letter.
ChurchPOP reader David (who also asked to remain anonymous) said he “sent a letter” “with a single sheet” to the Pope’s apartment.” He added that it “didn’t even include a return address,” but begged the Pope “to just send me any words at all for my mother.”
One ChurchPOP reader sent us Pope Francis’ response after he followed these instructions for sending the pope a letter.
ChurchPOP reader David (who also asked to remain anonymous) said he “sent a letter” “with a single sheet” to the Pope’s apartment.” He added that it “didn’t even include a return address,” but begged the Pope “to just send me any words at all for my mother.”
He was the NBA’s best ref — then he went to a Catholic seminary [WSJ paywall]
He Was the NBA’s Best Ref. Then He Went to a Catholic Seminary. - WSJ: Near the end of his long career as an NBA referee, Steve Javie took a summer vacation with his wife. They decided to burn his unholy amount of frequent-flier miles and Marriott points on a trip to Saint Thomas. He was thinking about retirement, and this seemed like an ideal place to settle down. Javie could play golf, hit the beach and live in a tropical paradise.
St. Jerome and Baby Jesus
St Jerome and Baby Jesus – Fr. Dwight LongeneckerLONGENECKER: It was a great blessing during our pilgrimage to the Holy Land in 2018 to celebrate Mass in the cell of St Jerome which is in the crypt of the Church of St Catherine right next to the church of the Nativity in Bethlehem. The picture illustrating this blog post was taken in that chapel.
St Jerome retired to that cave so he could be next to the site of the nativity of Our Lord. The chapel of the nativity is immediately on the other side of the wall behind the altar you see in the picture.
St Jerome wanted to spend the end of his life there. In other words, St Jerome loved baby Jesus. What I find to touching is that Jerome has the reputation of being a bearded, bald headed, intellectual curmudgeon.
St Jerome retired to that cave so he could be next to the site of the nativity of Our Lord. The chapel of the nativity is immediately on the other side of the wall behind the altar you see in the picture.
St Jerome wanted to spend the end of his life there. In other words, St Jerome loved baby Jesus. What I find to touching is that Jerome has the reputation of being a bearded, bald headed, intellectual curmudgeon.
Thank you, Archbishop Chaput, for being such a good and holy spiritual father
Gratitude for Archbishop Chaput, a Good & Holy Spiritual Father | National ReviewLOPEZ: When Pope Francis came to the United States four years ago for the World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia, the theme of the event and visit was “Love is our mission.” Well, Archbishop Chaput loves well. Around the time of the pope’s visit, he highlighted so many of the social services provided by the church in the City of Brotherly Love, truly treating others as brothers and sisters and beloved sons and daughters. And we are often unable to see the world apart from political labels and ideological colonies. Chaput is someone who frequently tries to get us beyond that, so we can be leaven where we find ourselves.
A grammar of dissent
A Grammar of Dissent - Crisis MagazineRUTLER: Analytical psychology provided a virtually limitless opportunity for Carl Jung to play with the canonical vocabulary, expanding it to describe what he thought to be wider realms of human consciousness. An example of his creativity was his concept of Synchronizität. This “synchronicity” described what he perceived to be “meaningful coincidences,” by which he meant events that seem to have some sort of significant relationship even though they lack any apparent causal relationship. The more he considered this, the more he expanded his definitions.
Dr. Jung didn’t go beyond the limits of his own science to claim that God is involved in these phenomena, but others have. G.K. Chesterton called coincidences “spiritual puns.” There is a common instinct to attribute convenient phrases to Einstein, so it is not certain that he really did say, as is often claimed, that coincidences are God’s way of remaining anonymous. But many thinkers—an overplus of them Frenchmen, such as Anatole France and Théophile Gautier—have said almost the same thing.
Dr. Jung didn’t go beyond the limits of his own science to claim that God is involved in these phenomena, but others have. G.K. Chesterton called coincidences “spiritual puns.” There is a common instinct to attribute convenient phrases to Einstein, so it is not certain that he really did say, as is often claimed, that coincidences are God’s way of remaining anonymous. But many thinkers—an overplus of them Frenchmen, such as Anatole France and Théophile Gautier—have said almost the same thing.
A lament for the diminishing Church
A Lament for the Diminishing Church - Community in MissionPOPE: I suspect that experiencing the suffering and diminishing Church of today is more difficult for those of us who are older. There are two reasons for this: First, the scandals, decline, and disorder happened on our watch; we clergy especially have a lot of repenting to do over what we have done and what we have failed to do. Second, we remember a time when things seemed better, when the Church was strong and growing, when she was more certain of herself, more dignified. Obviously, it was not a sinless time, but things seemed more unified and orderly. This is not mere nostalgia; the numbers bear out the truth. By nearly every measure, Catholics were more cohesive and more loyal to the Church. Consider Thomas Reeves’ description of the Church in the 1940s in his 2002 book America’s Bishop: The Life and Times of Fulton J. Sheen...
The Synod of Bishops — from Paul VI’s dream to Francis’ nightmare
MondayVatican – Vatican Synod of Bishops: from Montini’s dream to Francis’ nightmare | MondayVaticanGAGLIARDUCCI: Pope Francis has often said that his model is Pope Paul VI. He has said he admired Paul VI’s courage in drafting a Humanae Vitae that ran counter to world public opinion, and he recognized his spiritual depth. But Giovambattista Montini was also the skilled deputy of the Secretariat of State in the 1940s and 1950s. In that capacity, he was one of the leading promoters of the Holy See engagement in multilateral issues.
“We missed the train of the unions, we cannot miss the train of the United Nations,” the young Montini is said to have noted when the participation of the Holy See in the international arena was under scrutiny.
“We missed the train of the unions, we cannot miss the train of the United Nations,” the young Montini is said to have noted when the participation of the Holy See in the international arena was under scrutiny.
Neocatechumenal Way heading into the sunset, with a push from the Pope
Neocatechumenals Heading Into the Sunset, With a Push From the Pope - Settimo Cielo - Blog - L’EspressoMAGISTER: On Friday September 20 Pope Francs received in audience, at Casa Santa Marta, the founder of the Neocatechumenal Way, Francisco “Kiko” Argüello, accompanied by his two lieutenants María Ascensión Romero and Fr. Mario Pezzi. On the occasion, Kiko offered the pope a sketch he had made with the likeness of Saint Francis Xavier, a Jesuit and a great missionary of Asia.
The gift was not a random one. An illustrious relic of Saint Francis Xavier is kept in Macao, on the coast of China, where the Vatican congregation “de Propaganda Fide” opened on July 29 the latest of the seminaries “Redemptoris Mater" for the formation of priests belonging to the Way, now more than a hundred and spread throughout the whole world. On Wednesday September 18, at the end of the general audience in Saint Peter’s Square, the pope also greeted the faculty and students of this new seminary, before their departure for Macao. And he then said to Kiko, according to a statement from the Way: “I am content because you are doing the Church’s most important thing, which is evangelizing, and you are doing it without proselytism but through witness.”
The gift was not a random one. An illustrious relic of Saint Francis Xavier is kept in Macao, on the coast of China, where the Vatican congregation “de Propaganda Fide” opened on July 29 the latest of the seminaries “Redemptoris Mater" for the formation of priests belonging to the Way, now more than a hundred and spread throughout the whole world. On Wednesday September 18, at the end of the general audience in Saint Peter’s Square, the pope also greeted the faculty and students of this new seminary, before their departure for Macao. And he then said to Kiko, according to a statement from the Way: “I am content because you are doing the Church’s most important thing, which is evangelizing, and you are doing it without proselytism but through witness.”
Pope Francis meets with Fr. James Martin in Vatican to discuss “LGBT Catholics and LGBT people worldwide”
Pope Francis meets with Fr. James Martin at Vatican: Pope Francis met Monday with Fr. James Martin, SJ, in a private audience in the apostolic palace inside the Vatican.
Martin said on Twitter Sept. 30, that his meeting with Pope Francis lasted 30 minutes, and that he shared with him “the joys and hopes, and the griefs and anxieties, of LGBT Catholics and LGBT people worldwide.”
Martin said on Twitter Sept. 30, that his meeting with Pope Francis lasted 30 minutes, and that he shared with him “the joys and hopes, and the griefs and anxieties, of LGBT Catholics and LGBT people worldwide.”
Charles de Foucauld’s Eucharistic Procession through the Sahara Desert
Charles de Foucauld’s Eucharistic Procession Through the Sahara DesertTURLEY: Immediately upon the outbreak of the Great War, Charles de Foucauld wished to return to France from the Sahara desert. He desired to rejoin the French army as a military chaplain. The bishop under whose authority he lived instructed him to stay where he was at Tamanrasset, a small village in modern-day Algeria.
De Foucauld obeyed what was later to prove a death sentence.
France’s empire in 1914 extended to large parts of North Africa – and that empire was now under attack. The Ottoman Empire, fighting alongside Prussia, called for the expulsion of all infidels from the lands of Islam and a restoration of the Caliphate. Some Saharan tribes responded to this call for jihad encouraged in so doing by the Muslim religious order known as the Senussi. De Foucauld lived far from French military aid in a makeshift hermitage. In the early hours of Dec. 1, 1916, an armed gang of fanatical Senussi set out to find the Christian hermit.
De Foucauld obeyed what was later to prove a death sentence.
France’s empire in 1914 extended to large parts of North Africa – and that empire was now under attack. The Ottoman Empire, fighting alongside Prussia, called for the expulsion of all infidels from the lands of Islam and a restoration of the Caliphate. Some Saharan tribes responded to this call for jihad encouraged in so doing by the Muslim religious order known as the Senussi. De Foucauld lived far from French military aid in a makeshift hermitage. In the early hours of Dec. 1, 1916, an armed gang of fanatical Senussi set out to find the Christian hermit.
Sunday, September 29, 2019
At special Mass in St. Peter’s Square, Pope laments countries that sell weapons but refuse refugees
Pope laments countries that sell weapons but refuse to take in refugees from conflicts: Pope Francis on Sunday said that Christians cannot be indifferent and insensitive to the “tragedy” of poverty, “our hearts deadened” before the misery of innocent people.
“We must not fail to weep,” Francis said. “We must not fail to respond.”
Francis, the son of immigrants himself, also lamented that today’s world is increasingly “more elitist and crueler towards the excluded,” because developing countries are drained of their best resources - natural and human - to benefit “a few privileged markets.”
“We must not fail to weep,” Francis said. “We must not fail to respond.”
Francis, the son of immigrants himself, also lamented that today’s world is increasingly “more elitist and crueler towards the excluded,” because developing countries are drained of their best resources - natural and human - to benefit “a few privileged markets.”
A week that captured the bedeviling complexity of Catholic life
A week that captured the bedeviling complexity of Catholic lifeALLEN: Few things can be said about Catholicism with absolute certainty, but here’s one: Both people and situations in the Church are almost always more complicated than they may seem.
Two developments this week brought that point home anew, one related to the sexual abuse crisis and the other to the death of an American churchman.
On Wednesday, I moderated a panel on the crisis at the University of Notre Dame that included veteran Catholic journalist Peter Steinfels; Kathleen McChesney, a former FBI official and onetime director of the U.S. bishops’ Office of Child Protection; Juan Carlos Cruz, a survivor of Chile’s most notorious pedophile priest who’s become a confidante of Pope Francis on the abuse issue; and Archbishop William Lori of Baltimore.
Two developments this week brought that point home anew, one related to the sexual abuse crisis and the other to the death of an American churchman.
On Wednesday, I moderated a panel on the crisis at the University of Notre Dame that included veteran Catholic journalist Peter Steinfels; Kathleen McChesney, a former FBI official and onetime director of the U.S. bishops’ Office of Child Protection; Juan Carlos Cruz, a survivor of Chile’s most notorious pedophile priest who’s become a confidante of Pope Francis on the abuse issue; and Archbishop William Lori of Baltimore.
Saturday, September 28, 2019
Ignoring the poor is a damnable sin. If you ignore the poor, you will go to hell...
Ignoring the Poor Is a Damnable Sin—A Homily for the 26th Sunday of the Year - Community in MissionPOPE: This Sunday’s Gospel about the rich man and Lazarus contains some important teachings on judgment and Hell. We live in times in which many consider the teachings on Hell to be untenable. They struggle to understand how a God described as loving, merciful, and forgiving could assign certain souls to Hell forever. Despite the fact that the Doctrine of Hell is taught extensively in Scripture as well as by Jesus Himself, it does not comport well with many modern notions and so many people think that it has to go.
Raymond Cardinal Burke interview: A German attack on Christ’s Lordship
A German Attack on Christ’s Lordship | Raymond L. Burke | First Things: Half a millennium after the Reformation, Germans are making trouble again for the Roman Church. This time, Germany’s Catholic bishops have set out to remake the Church in their own liberal image. The German episcopate this week adopted a statutory framework to govern its upcoming “Synodal Assembly.” The agenda will include reviewing “Church teaching on sexual morality, the role of women in Church offices and ministries, priestly life and discipline, and the separation of powers in Church governance.” And lest there be any doubt about the direction the majority aims to take in these areas, the bishops drafted the statutes with the Central Committee of German Catholics, a lay outfit that advocates women’s ordination, an end to priestly celibacy, and various other concessions to the sexual revolution.
The death of St. Vincent de Paul
The Saint's Death: St. Vincent de Paul | Hour of Our DeathMILLS: This is the brother,” he said. “The sister will not long delay her coming.” St. Vincent de Paul had begun to feel the lethargy he recognized as a sign he would die soon. It was the year 1660, and he was eighty-five years old. He hadn’t been able to walk for years, and had to give up saying Mass because he could no longer stand up. He struggled to get the chapel on his crutches, till his friends finally got him to let them carry him in a chair.
“One of these days,” he told those with him, “the miserable body of this old sinner will be laid in the ground. It will turn to dust, and you will tread it under foot.”
“One of these days,” he told those with him, “the miserable body of this old sinner will be laid in the ground. It will turn to dust, and you will tread it under foot.”
The clear-minded determination of Jesus
The Clear Minded Determination of Jesus – Fr. Dwight LongeneckerLONGENECKER: Faced with the crisis in the Catholic Church at this time, I’ve been meditating further on this blog post earlier in the week which concluded with a few thoughts on the mystery of Our Lord’s parable of the wheat and the weeds growing together. This parable is reinforced by the parable of the sheep and the goats in the same flock.
These stories highlight the absolutely clear minded priorities of Jesus. He knew exactly what he was about and was not dissuaded or turned away from his mission by some lesser good.
These stories highlight the absolutely clear minded priorities of Jesus. He knew exactly what he was about and was not dissuaded or turned away from his mission by some lesser good.
A big news story: Scouting was a mainstream thing, embracing a vague faith. What now?
A big news story: Scouting was a mainstream thing, embracing a vague faith. What now? — GetReligionMATTINGLY: If you grew up male in the 1950s and ‘60s — especially in the American heartland and the Bible Belt — the odds were good that you knew the following by memory: “On my honor, I will do my best to do my duty to God and my country, to obey the Scout Law, to help other people at all times, to keep myself physically strong, mentally awake and morally straight.”
If you grew up as a Texas Baptist, as I did, then Scouting was another one of those church things, but it wasn’t totally a church thing.
You knew that the Boy Scout oath mentioned “God,” but not “Jesus,” and you knew that this meant Scouting was interfaith. You knew that when you went to big Scouting events you would meet boys from other flocks — Methodist, Catholic, Church of Christ, Assemblies of God, Catholic, etc. This was one of the first settings in which you met guys active in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
If you grew up as a Texas Baptist, as I did, then Scouting was another one of those church things, but it wasn’t totally a church thing.
You knew that the Boy Scout oath mentioned “God,” but not “Jesus,” and you knew that this meant Scouting was interfaith. You knew that when you went to big Scouting events you would meet boys from other flocks — Methodist, Catholic, Church of Christ, Assemblies of God, Catholic, etc. This was one of the first settings in which you met guys active in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Chilling ‘anti-homophobia’ display targets Catholic writers at Notre Dame
"Anti Homophobia" Display Targets Catholic Writers - Irish Rover: Last Thursday, an unauthorized sign with the words, “There is Queer Blood on Homophobic Hands,” was placed outside DeBartolo Hall and widely shared across social media. The sign contained many articles from the Irish Rover and the Observer which reflect Catholic doctrine regarding human sexuality, implying that the authors of these were responsible for the deaths of “queer” people nationwide.
Most shockingly, the sign’s message was painted in blood red, and the names of the articles’ writers were all circled in blood-red paint, drawing hostile attention to individual members of the Notre Dame community. Among the names circled in red paint were those of current students, faculty, and alumni of the University.
Most shockingly, the sign’s message was painted in blood red, and the names of the articles’ writers were all circled in blood-red paint, drawing hostile attention to individual members of the Notre Dame community. Among the names circled in red paint were those of current students, faculty, and alumni of the University.
At UN, Holy See requests increased aid for Middle Eastern Christians
At UN, Holy See requests increased aid for Middle Eastern Christians: As displaced Christians return to their homes in the Middle East, the Vatican Secretary of State encouraged U.N. representatives Friday to help rebuild a culture ravaged by the Islamic State.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin spoke Sept. 27 at the United Nations General Assembly in New York City during a panel discussion hosted by Hungary.
The panel was titled “Rebuilding Lives, Rebuilding Communities: Ensuring a Future for Persecuted Christians.” It discussed the restoration of war-torn areas such as Iraq and Syria. In the spring the last sector of Islamic State territory in Syria was dislodged, but guerilla warfare throughout the two countries has continued.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin spoke Sept. 27 at the United Nations General Assembly in New York City during a panel discussion hosted by Hungary.
The panel was titled “Rebuilding Lives, Rebuilding Communities: Ensuring a Future for Persecuted Christians.” It discussed the restoration of war-torn areas such as Iraq and Syria. In the spring the last sector of Islamic State territory in Syria was dislodged, but guerilla warfare throughout the two countries has continued.
Friday, September 27, 2019
Ironies in the fire
Ironies in the fire - Denver CatholicWEIGEL: The eminent sociologist Peter Rossi was a world-class punster whose scholarly accomplishments fed a sometimes-whimsical view of the human condition — in which, Rossi memorably observed, “there are many ironies in the fire.”
That’s certainly true of the interaction between Catholicism and cultural, social, and political modernity over the last 250 years. The multiple ironies in that complex relationship, and their surprising results, are explored in my new book, The Irony of Modern Catholic History: How the Church Rediscovered Itself and Challenged the Modern World to Reform (Basic Books), in which I turn the conventional telling of this tale inside-out and upside-down.
That’s certainly true of the interaction between Catholicism and cultural, social, and political modernity over the last 250 years. The multiple ironies in that complex relationship, and their surprising results, are explored in my new book, The Irony of Modern Catholic History: How the Church Rediscovered Itself and Challenged the Modern World to Reform (Basic Books), in which I turn the conventional telling of this tale inside-out and upside-down.
Homosexual ex-priest James Alison says he received a strange phone call from Pope Francis [paywall]
‘This is Pope Francis calling’: In this year’s international bestseller, In the Closet of the Vatican, Frédéric Martel reveals that two years ago Pope Francis phoned a prominent gay priest and theologian ordered by the Vatican not to teach, preach or celebrate the Sacraments. We asked the priest to explain what happened
I guess the story starts in 1994, when, fully six years a priest, it became clear to me that I could no longer pretend that there was anything wrong with same-sex love. The frightened boy who had accepted the official line that he was the bearer of something objectively disordered, and that therefore celibacy was an obligation, was finally growing up.
I guess the story starts in 1994, when, fully six years a priest, it became clear to me that I could no longer pretend that there was anything wrong with same-sex love. The frightened boy who had accepted the official line that he was the bearer of something objectively disordered, and that therefore celibacy was an obligation, was finally growing up.
Pakistani archbishop warns of surge in Christian girls kidnapped, forced into marriages
Pakistani archbishop warns of surge in Christian girls kidnapped, forced into marriages: A Catholic bishop in Pakistan has warned of an increase in young Christian and Hindu girls being kidnapped, then forced to convert to Islam and marry their captors.
“There have been many kidnappings recently,” Archbishop Sebastian Shaw of Lahore told papal charity Aid to the Church in Need.
“The girls are usually 14, 15. The men often already have one wife. They can be 25 or older. They can also be younger, more like 20,” he added.
“There have been many kidnappings recently,” Archbishop Sebastian Shaw of Lahore told papal charity Aid to the Church in Need.
“The girls are usually 14, 15. The men often already have one wife. They can be 25 or older. They can also be younger, more like 20,” he added.
What our church buildings say about us
What Our Church Buildings Say About Us - Community in MissionPOPE: In the Mass for Thursday of the 25th week of the year, we read from the book of the prophet Haggai, who wrote at the time of the return of the Jews from the Babylonian exile, which had begun in 587 B.C. The Jewish people were permitted to return to the Promised Land beginning in about 538 B.C. Haggai wrote his book in the summer of 520 B.C. and in it he scolds the people for concentrating on their “paneled houses” while the Temple is in a ruinous state. He ties their weak piety to the failure of crops, their inability to enjoy what they have, and other calamities.
Zechariah, who wrote in the autumn of 520 B.C., also expresses concern for the poor state of the Temple and ties its rebuilding to future blessings, including the coming of the Messiah. Later, we will examine Zechariah’s writing.
Zechariah, who wrote in the autumn of 520 B.C., also expresses concern for the poor state of the Temple and ties its rebuilding to future blessings, including the coming of the Messiah. Later, we will examine Zechariah’s writing.
When nothing makes sense and all seems useless, pray
Beginning to Pray: When Nothing Makes Sense and All Seems Useless - PrayLILLES: "In this world, you will have trouble" John 16:33. There are trials so severe that they seem to render prayer impossible. A soul might want to pray and may even try to pray, but the ability to actually pray seems frustrated -- drowning in discouragement and exhaustion. It would seem far fetched to such a person if one were to attempt to explain the greatness of the gift being offered in the midst of such a difficult crisis. The gift is not seized in some great sensational feet. Instead, by the frailest act of surrender to love, for love and by love one offers to the Lord the trial that besets and in this humble offering, in what seems of so little worth, that unfamiliar inflow of love untold springs forth. A naked, vulnerable act of faith makes space in time and space for the glory of God. The threshold of this mystery is the foot of the Cross, and those who suffer are invited to cross over this threshold into a new kind of fruitfulness.
Millennials are finally moving to the suburbs. Parishes: are you ready?
Millennials are moving to the suburbs. Parishes: are you ready? — L'Alto Catholic InstituteGLEMKOWSKI: Yesterday, the Wall Street Journal had an article that unpacked some data which showed that, like generations before them, millennials are finally moving out of the big cities and settling down in the suburbs. The reason seems to do mainly with the search for affordable housing, and this exodus from big cities has led to suburbs being fourteen of the fifteen fastest growing cities in the U.S.
As Catholics, especially those of us who are members or leaders of suburban parishes, we have to look at our communities and ask: are we ready for this? Are we ready to go out to, engage with, and evangelize these millennials?
As Catholics, especially those of us who are members or leaders of suburban parishes, we have to look at our communities and ask: are we ready for this? Are we ready to go out to, engage with, and evangelize these millennials?
Sts. Cosmas and Damian, the martyr doctors of Turkey
Sts. Cosmas and Damian: The Martyr Doctors of Turkey – Ζήστε ζεστόBEAUDOIN: My family and I were stationed at Incirlik Air Base, Turkey from 2010 to 2012. During my time there, I did a lot of research about the ancient Christian history of my new home. It just so happened that the town of Aegea where Sts. Cosmas and Damian lived and were martyred ended up being only a 1 hour drive from our house! The town of Aegea (now known in Turkish as “Yumurtalik”) is a small, but beautiful beach town rich in history.
Does a religious upbringing make people stingier? An erroneous paper on religion and generosity is finally retracted...
Does a Religious Upbringing Promote Generosity or Not? | Psychology Today: In 2015, a paper by Jean Decety and co-authors reported that children who were brought up religiously were less generous. The paper received a great deal of attention, and was covered by over 80 media outlets including The Economist, the Boston Globe, the Los Angeles Times, and Scientific American. As it turned out, however, the paper by Decety was wrong. Another scholar, Azim Shariff, a leading expert on religion and pro-social behavior, was surprised by the results, as his own research and meta-analysis (combining evidence across studies from many authors) indicated that religious participation, in most settings, increased generosity. Shariff requested the data to try to understand more clearly what might explain the discrepancy.
The actions of Cardinal Marx and his fellow bishops in Germany risk damaging the unity of the Catholic Church
Pope Francis and the possible German schism - Denver CatholicAQUILA: As he was approaching his death, Jesus prayed that the Church would be one, that it would be unified. Looking back in history and at the present times of tumult within society and the Church, it is vitally important that we remember our unity comes from remaining in relationship with the Father, Jesus and Holy Spirit, not from adopting the values of the world.
Speaking to God the Father, Jesus said in John 17, “I ask not only on behalf of these, but also on behalf of those who will believe in me through their word, that they may all be one.” We are those who believe in Jesus through the word of the Apostles, as generations of Christians born before us have. The unity of the Church is not just for our own sake, it’s also for the world, so that it will believe that the Father sent Jesus.
Speaking to God the Father, Jesus said in John 17, “I ask not only on behalf of these, but also on behalf of those who will believe in me through their word, that they may all be one.” We are those who believe in Jesus through the word of the Apostles, as generations of Christians born before us have. The unity of the Church is not just for our own sake, it’s also for the world, so that it will believe that the Father sent Jesus.
Why women love the home but not being a homemaker
Why Women Love The Home But Not Being A HomemakerGRESS: Over the past decade, our culture has seen a resurgence of interest in the domestic arts. What was old seems new again.
Contemporary McMansions are shunned for old farmhouses or low-slung mid-century homes. Convenience food is something we buy sheepishly, opting instead to wear aprons while making simple, slow meals served on hand-thrown pottery. We knit, sew, quilt, and even quill. If it is a craft, it has probably made, or is about to make, a social comeback from prior relative obscurity.
Contemporary McMansions are shunned for old farmhouses or low-slung mid-century homes. Convenience food is something we buy sheepishly, opting instead to wear aprons while making simple, slow meals served on hand-thrown pottery. We knit, sew, quilt, and even quill. If it is a craft, it has probably made, or is about to make, a social comeback from prior relative obscurity.
Three decades ago, America suddenly began losing its religion. Why?
How America Lost Its Religion - The Atlantic: The idea of American exceptionalism has become so dubious that much of its modern usage is merely sarcastic. But when it comes to religion, Americans really are exceptional. No rich country prays nearly as much as the U.S, and no country that prays as much as the U.S. is nearly as rich.
America’s unique synthesis of wealth and worship has puzzled international observers and foiled their grandest theories of a global secular takeover. In the late 19th century, an array of celebrity philosophers—the likes of Friedrich Nietzsche, Karl Marx, and Sigmund Freud—proclaimed the death of God, and predicted that atheism would follow scientific discovery and modernity in the West, sure as smoke follows fire.
America’s unique synthesis of wealth and worship has puzzled international observers and foiled their grandest theories of a global secular takeover. In the late 19th century, an array of celebrity philosophers—the likes of Friedrich Nietzsche, Karl Marx, and Sigmund Freud—proclaimed the death of God, and predicted that atheism would follow scientific discovery and modernity in the West, sure as smoke follows fire.
10 common problems for Catholic converts
Ten Problems for Catholic Converts – Fr. Dwight LongeneckerLONGENECKER: Scott Hahn’s wife Kimberly was once asked what were the three most difficult things about the Catholic faith that she had to overcome to enter full communion with the Catholic Church.
She answered, “Mary, Mary and Mary.”
It is certainly true that for many converts overcoming the Anti-Mary bias in Protestantism is a big hurdle. As an Anglican I was okay with Marian devotion but got stuck on the dogma of the Immaculate Conception. BTW this post explains how I got over that problem.
Mary is a problem for lots of converts before they enter the church, but I’ve been thinking more the last few days about the problems converts have after they enter the church. There are problems in becoming Catholic, but there are also some major problems in staying Catholic.
She answered, “Mary, Mary and Mary.”
It is certainly true that for many converts overcoming the Anti-Mary bias in Protestantism is a big hurdle. As an Anglican I was okay with Marian devotion but got stuck on the dogma of the Immaculate Conception. BTW this post explains how I got over that problem.
Mary is a problem for lots of converts before they enter the church, but I’ve been thinking more the last few days about the problems converts have after they enter the church. There are problems in becoming Catholic, but there are also some major problems in staying Catholic.
Remembering Cardinal William Levada (1936-2019)
Remembering Cardinal William Levada (1936-2019)DESOUZA: At the beginning of April 2005, the Catholic Church faced a difficult question: Who could possibly succeed Pope John Paul II? Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, previously thought too old, was elected, the most worthy available successor, even if he insisted that after the “great pope” he was only a “humble worker in the vineyard.” Humble but most formidable.
Who, then, would succeed Ratzinger as prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (CDF)? That was in some ways an even more difficult question.
There was literally no candidate who could do what Cardinal Ratzinger had done. The most gifted bishop-theologian of his generation, Cardinal Ratzinger could not be replaced. There was speculation that the new pope, Benedict XVI, would reach into the same world of theological scholarship whence he came, but who?
Who, then, would succeed Ratzinger as prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (CDF)? That was in some ways an even more difficult question.
There was literally no candidate who could do what Cardinal Ratzinger had done. The most gifted bishop-theologian of his generation, Cardinal Ratzinger could not be replaced. There was speculation that the new pope, Benedict XVI, would reach into the same world of theological scholarship whence he came, but who?
Thursday, September 26, 2019
William Cardinal Levada, ex-CDF prefect and former San Francisco archbishop, dies at 83
Cardinal William Levada, Ex-CDF Prefect and Former San Francisco Archbishop, Dies: Cardinal William Levada, the former prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, died Wednesday at the age of 83. He was the first American to lead the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (CDF), one of the most senior positions in the Curia.
Cardinal Levada was appointed to the position by Pope Benedict XVI, who, as Cardinal Ratzinger, had led the congregation until his election as pope. Cardinal Levada served in the role from May 13, 2005, until July 2012.
As prefect of the CDF, Levada served as the president of the Pontifical Biblical Commission and International Theological Commission. He was also charged with overseeing the Vatican’s handling of cases of child sexual abuse, and with implementing the 2010 legal reforms to Sacramentorum Sanctitatis Tutela, which govern the Church’s handling of the most serious canonical offences.
Cardinal Levada was appointed to the position by Pope Benedict XVI, who, as Cardinal Ratzinger, had led the congregation until his election as pope. Cardinal Levada served in the role from May 13, 2005, until July 2012.
As prefect of the CDF, Levada served as the president of the Pontifical Biblical Commission and International Theological Commission. He was also charged with overseeing the Vatican’s handling of cases of child sexual abuse, and with implementing the 2010 legal reforms to Sacramentorum Sanctitatis Tutela, which govern the Church’s handling of the most serious canonical offences.
Wednesday, September 25, 2019
Has St. Thérèse ever given you a rose? Thank her by telling your story to the Register...
Has St. Therese Ever Given You a Rose? The Register Wants to Hear From You!PRONECHEN: When St. Thérèse, the Little Flower, was dying, she famously said, “After my death, I will let fall a shower of roses. I will spend my heaven doing good upon earth. I will raise up a mighty host of little saints. My mission is to make God loved...” Since then, people as countless as the stars in the sky have experienced this saint making good on her prediction. Once they’ve prayed to her for her intercession — and even at times before a series of prayers to her are completed — St. Thérèse often signals her love and presence by giving them a rose in some way or other.
I am stunned at the decline in Mass attendance that has occurred during my lifetime. What might God be doing?
What Can Remnant Theology Teach Us about the Church Today? - Community in MissionPOPE: When I was a young child, I remember jam-packed Masses: if you didn’t get there early, you’d have to stand. In those days (the 1960s) if you put up four walls, Catholics would fill them. There were long waiting lists for parochial schools. There were lots of religious sisters. There was not just one associate pastor or curate; there were two or three or even four.
Those days are largely gone. While there are still some large parishes in suburban areas, some of them even growing, the number of Catholics who attend Mass weekly has dropped from about 75 percent to under 25 percent since the 1950s. And although vocations are beginning to rebound, today’s situation is one of largely empty convents and rectories. A parochial vicar is unknown in many parishes, and in some parts of the country there isn’t even a resident pastor in each parish.
Those days are largely gone. While there are still some large parishes in suburban areas, some of them even growing, the number of Catholics who attend Mass weekly has dropped from about 75 percent to under 25 percent since the 1950s. And although vocations are beginning to rebound, today’s situation is one of largely empty convents and rectories. A parochial vicar is unknown in many parishes, and in some parts of the country there isn’t even a resident pastor in each parish.
This video of a sleeping (dreaming?) octopus changing colors is astonishing
New Advent: This video of a sleeping (dreaming?) octopus changing colors is astonishing: “Octopus: Making Contact“ premieres Oct. 2 on PBS
6 stops on the worldwide hunt for the Holy Grail
6 Stops on the Hunt for the Holy Grail: The first of many myths involving a divine grail was written more than eight centuries ago. People have been fascinated with the potential whereabouts of the holy treasure every since, making it one of history’s most enduring legends. As the stories evolved and fractured over time, the lure of the Holy Grail persisted and expanded, muddying historical events with religious beliefs, Arthurian literature, wild conspiracy theories, and pop culture epics.
Is the Catholic Church institutionally overweight?
Is the Catholic Church institutionally overweight? | Catholic CultureLAWLER: A reflection on the Gospel reading from this morning’s Mass: “Take nothing for the journey; no staff, nor bag, nor bread, nor money; and do not have two tunics.” With those instructions—not to mention to drive out demons and cure diseases—the Lord sent the Apostles out “to preach the kingdom of God and to heal.” Their successors have the same job description today.
Now consult your local diocesan directory, or your parish bulletin, or the USCCB web site, or even the Vatican’s Annuario, and ask yourself which of these things is more essential than a staff, a bag, or a spare tunic
Now consult your local diocesan directory, or your parish bulletin, or the USCCB web site, or even the Vatican’s Annuario, and ask yourself which of these things is more essential than a staff, a bag, or a spare tunic
Pope Francis: “The deacon is not for the altar, but for service”
New Advent: Pope Francis: “The deacon is not for the altar, but for service”: “When a deacon likes to go to the altar too much, he is mistaken. This is not his path.”
A 3D tour of Frank Lloyd Wright’s “Fallingwater”
A 3D Tour of Frank Lloyd Wright's "Fallingwater" | Mental Floss: In 1935, architect Frank Lloyd Wright designed Fallingwater, a house atop a waterfall in Pennsylvania. It's a beautiful house, and I've visited it several times to wander around and think, "Yeah, this is what I'd like if I had a gajillion dollars."
The hidden connection between Tertullian and Thomas Jefferson
New Research Connecting Tertullian to the U.S. First Amendment Freedom of Religion ClausesSCOTTSMITH: What if I told you the Church Fathers, not the Founding Fathers, wrote the First Amendment? Stay tuned for a startling new discovery!
Pop Quiz! Think back to your high school U.S. Government course or Poli-Sci 101 in college. Where did all the great ideas in the U.S. Constitution come from? Where did the Founding Fathers get all those great ideas?
The Enlightenment, right? John Locke, Jean-Jacques Rousseau and the Social Contract. Baron de Montesquieu and The Spirit of the Laws. All the great minds. Right?
Pop Quiz! Think back to your high school U.S. Government course or Poli-Sci 101 in college. Where did all the great ideas in the U.S. Constitution come from? Where did the Founding Fathers get all those great ideas?
The Enlightenment, right? John Locke, Jean-Jacques Rousseau and the Social Contract. Baron de Montesquieu and The Spirit of the Laws. All the great minds. Right?
Does the Vatican’s decision on the Jesuit prep school undermine Indianapolis’ archbishop?
Does Vatican’s Decision on Jesuit Prep School Undermine Indianapolis’ Archbishop?JDFLYNN: Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School in Indianapolis announced this week that the Vatican’s Congregation for Catholic Education has suspended a decree prohibiting the school from calling itself Catholic.
The announcement has led to speculation and debate about the likely outcome for an appeal filed against the decree. But the canonical realities of the case don’t support most of the conjecture.
The decree was issued by Archbishop Charles Thompson, after a disagreement between the Archdiocese of Indianapolis and the school over the employment of a teacher in a same-sex union. It was appealed by the Jesuit province that oversees the school.
The announcement has led to speculation and debate about the likely outcome for an appeal filed against the decree. But the canonical realities of the case don’t support most of the conjecture.
The decree was issued by Archbishop Charles Thompson, after a disagreement between the Archdiocese of Indianapolis and the school over the employment of a teacher in a same-sex union. It was appealed by the Jesuit province that oversees the school.
The New American Bible and lectionary are ugly and dispiriting. Please, your excellencies, put them to death...
Our “Sophisticated” Bible Translators - The Catholic ThingESOLEN: I’d like, in a few essays, to categorize the blunders our translators have made, to show why the NAB and the current lectionary ought to be sent to the netherworld, and their names be known no more.
The first category is this: Turning the palpable and visible into abstraction.
We are wrong to suppose that poets turn everything into vague symbols, leaving behind this blessed world of sun and wind, grassland and rock, sparrow and lily. The poor writer thinks with dead metaphors, the drab and much-thumbed common currency of the journalist and the politician. He talks about “marginalized” people without thinking about a margin. He says that a leader has “free rein” but does not think about riding horses. The poet is not so.
The first category is this: Turning the palpable and visible into abstraction.
We are wrong to suppose that poets turn everything into vague symbols, leaving behind this blessed world of sun and wind, grassland and rock, sparrow and lily. The poor writer thinks with dead metaphors, the drab and much-thumbed common currency of the journalist and the politician. He talks about “marginalized” people without thinking about a margin. He says that a leader has “free rein” but does not think about riding horses. The poet is not so.
Pope’s Wednesday Audience: “Today there are more martyrs than at the beginning of the life of the Church, and martyrs are everywhere”
VATICAN Pope: today there are more martyrs than at the beginning of the life of the Church, and they are everywhere: Learn to "live a full life, welcoming the martyrdom of daily fidelity to the Gospel" — This is the warning addressed today by the Pope at the end of a general audience in which he emphasized the value and meaning of martyrdom and returned to remember that "today there are more martyrs than at the beginning of the life of the Church, and martyrs are everywhere".
Speaking to the 20 thousand people present in St. Peter's Square, Francis, continuing the cycle of catechesis on the Acts of the Apostles, underlined the evil of the "darnel". "And what is the worst darnel that destroys a community? The weeds of murmuring, the tares of chattering".
Speaking to the 20 thousand people present in St. Peter's Square, Francis, continuing the cycle of catechesis on the Acts of the Apostles, underlined the evil of the "darnel". "And what is the worst darnel that destroys a community? The weeds of murmuring, the tares of chattering".
You’ll do some good for the world, by admitting you don’t know jack...
You Don't Know Anything. Just Admit It | The StreamMILLS: I am constantly surprised at how much my Facebook friends know. More than I do about many things. With a great deal more conviction than I feel. And, as far as I can tell, without enough knowledge of the subject to have much of an opinion at all, much less the black-and-white all-in good-guys-bad-guys opinion so many have.
People get angry at each other over a question neither understands nor actually really cares about. They judge each other as people from their opinions about things, politics especially. They dig in when people argue with them. Eventually, they call someone Hitler.
People get angry at each other over a question neither understands nor actually really cares about. They judge each other as people from their opinions about things, politics especially. They dig in when people argue with them. Eventually, they call someone Hitler.
Mixing politics and piety, a conservative priest seeks to shape Poland’s future
Mixing Politics and Piety, a Conservative Priest Seeks to Shape Poland’s Future - The New York Times: From the martyrs of World War II to the heroes who led the fight against communist rule, priests in Poland have long played an outsize role in shaping the political life of this deeply Catholic country.
And in Poland today, there is no more politically powerful — or divisive — cleric than the man referred to as “Father Director,” the Rev. Tadeusz Rydzyk.
And in Poland today, there is no more politically powerful — or divisive — cleric than the man referred to as “Father Director,” the Rev. Tadeusz Rydzyk.
How Frodo experienced a “dark night of the soul”
How Frodo experienced a "dark night of the soul" - Voyage Comics & PublishingKOSLOSKI: St. John of the Cross coined a phrase many know as the “dark night of the soul.” However, contrary to what many might believe to be the dark night, what St. John of the Cross is actually referring to is a spiritual detachment from all consolation in this world.
What this entails is God stepping back for a time, allowing a soul to be purified of all worldly attachments; teaching the soul to cling tightly to God instead of earthly pleasures. This period of time is often very difficult and it can appear that God is distant. Yet God is close by, looking upon us as a loving Father watches his child ride his training wheel free bike down the driveway. Similar to that image of the Father, He encourages us to plunge ourselves into the darkness of detachment in order that we may truly see the Light of Christ. We must be detached from the training wheels of worldly attachments in order to fly free.
What this entails is God stepping back for a time, allowing a soul to be purified of all worldly attachments; teaching the soul to cling tightly to God instead of earthly pleasures. This period of time is often very difficult and it can appear that God is distant. Yet God is close by, looking upon us as a loving Father watches his child ride his training wheel free bike down the driveway. Similar to that image of the Father, He encourages us to plunge ourselves into the darkness of detachment in order that we may truly see the Light of Christ. We must be detached from the training wheels of worldly attachments in order to fly free.
Religious orders in Germany are sinking. This is how they’re rearranging the desk chairs...
Vanishing Monasteries in Germany: The Last of the Monks - SPIEGEL ONLINE: The clanging of dishes echoes through the refectory, the abbey's dining area. Monks sit at long wooden tables, silently spooning up their bouillon-and-pancake soup. There is entertainment on offer for the evening meal: One of their fellow monks is reading aloud a book about the first Christians in antique Rome. Back then, they were a sect that lived in small communities, on the edge of society.
Tuesday, September 24, 2019
Spanish bishops: Zen meditation and ‘Mindfulness’ movement are not Christian
Spanish Bishops: Zen Meditation and ‘Mindfulness’ Movement Are Not Christian: The Spanish bishops’ conference said that the “mindfulness” movement and other Eastern meditation techniques cannot be considered a “properly Christian” practice of prayer.
The Spanish bishops’ commission on doctrine approved April 3 “My Soul Thirsts for God, for the Living God: A Doctrinal Orientation on Christian Prayer.” The document was officially published Sept. 3.
The bishops’ document discusses the “nature and richness of prayer and the spiritual experience rooted in Christian Revelation and Tradition.”
The Spanish bishops’ commission on doctrine approved April 3 “My Soul Thirsts for God, for the Living God: A Doctrinal Orientation on Christian Prayer.” The document was officially published Sept. 3.
The bishops’ document discusses the “nature and richness of prayer and the spiritual experience rooted in Christian Revelation and Tradition.”
Baptisms, marriages plummet to all-time low in Philadelphia
Decline in baptisms, marriages seen as harbinger, call to community – Catholic Philly: Much like the figures showing attendance at Sunday Masses dropping in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, two other key indicators of vitality in the local church also are in steep decline, and have been for more than a half-century.
The reception of the sacraments of baptism and marriage have declined dramatically in the archdiocese since 1961, according to statistics from the archdiocesan Office for Parish Service and Support.
While the Mass attendance figures were culled from the October count census performed every year since 1990, the figures on baptism and marriage stretch back much further. Together they present a long-term trend line that can be a valuable milestone to planning for the parish and institutional needs of the church in coming years.
The reception of the sacraments of baptism and marriage have declined dramatically in the archdiocese since 1961, according to statistics from the archdiocesan Office for Parish Service and Support.
While the Mass attendance figures were culled from the October count census performed every year since 1990, the figures on baptism and marriage stretch back much further. Together they present a long-term trend line that can be a valuable milestone to planning for the parish and institutional needs of the church in coming years.
Long-lost $6.5 million Cimabue painting found hanging in elderly woman’s kitchen
Cimabue: Long-lost €6m artwork found in elderly woman's kitchen - BBC News: A painting found hanging in an elderly woman's home near Paris is a long-lost masterpiece by Florentine artist Cimabue, art experts say.
Christ Mocked, part of a series of paintings from the late 13th Century, was discovered at the property in the northern French town of Compiegne.
It is thought it could fetch up to €6m at auction next month.
The woman had it valued believing it to be an old religious icon. Experts said there was "no disputing" its origin.
Tests were carried out on the artwork using infrared light to determine the similarities with works by the Italian painter Cimabue, also known as Cenni di Pepo.
Christ Mocked, part of a series of paintings from the late 13th Century, was discovered at the property in the northern French town of Compiegne.
It is thought it could fetch up to €6m at auction next month.
The woman had it valued believing it to be an old religious icon. Experts said there was "no disputing" its origin.
Tests were carried out on the artwork using infrared light to determine the similarities with works by the Italian painter Cimabue, also known as Cenni di Pepo.
The “theology of home” calls to mind a vital spiritual truth
Excerpt from Theology of Home — Theology of HomeMERING: Home. It is an elegant word, at once both simple and far-reaching. Home is that place where we are meant to be safe, nurtured, known for who we are, and able to live and love freely. Even for those from broken homes or homes that no longer exist, there is still something in the idea that pulls at us.
Betsy DeVos’ trip to a Catholic elementary school is not a scandal
Betsy DeVos Trip to a Catholic Elementary School Is Not a Scandal | National ReviewHIRSCHAUER: Rod Dreher’s “Law of Merited Impossibility” condenses the rhetorical game played by cultural progressives to first secure, and then enforce, changes in public morality: “It will never happen, but when it does, you bigots will deserve it.” Traditionalists, in Dreher’s telling, are lulled into a truce with social revolutionaries, who mock the dystopian nightmares of social conservatives as things that “will never happen.” But when the “it” happens, the revolutionaries insist that the bigots . . . deserve it.
26th Sunday of OT: Does it even matter how we treat others?
The Sacred Page: Does It Even Matter How We Treat Others? The 26th Sunday of OTBERGSMA: Sometimes we are tempted to think, “If only God would pour out manifestations of His power, then evangelism would be easier. We would convert the nation.” But Jesus teaches us to think more realistically about miracles. After three years of the most remarkable miracle ministry in the history of the human race, Jesus still found himself abandoned by even his closest followers at the time of his greatest need. Even after his resurrection, the officials to whom that miracle were reported paid the guards to suppress the news! Miracles gather crowds, but they only occasionally lead to the conversion of heart that Jesus seeks. Those that are hardened by greed, lust, or other passions can always find a way to explain a miracle away, and even if they can’t, they will simply ignore it or regard it as an inexplicable fluke. There have been public miracles in modern times witnessed by thousands
This is disastrous — do we doubt the Sacrament of Matrimony?
This is Disastrous — Do We Doubt the Sacrament of Marriage?CLARK: We are told that a high percentage of Catholics today doubt the validity of the Blessed Sacrament. That may be true. But I’d be willing to wager that, for most people, the validity of the Sacrament of Matrimony was doubted long before.
In his opening lecture, my college apologetics professor posited an aphorism that has remained with me ever since: “If you deny one truth, you deny them all.” With that thought ringing in my head, I keep wondering whether the denial of one sacrament often leads to denying them all.
Specifically, if you don’t believe that God maintains a presence in sacramental marriage, it would seem much less likely to believe that he maintains a sacramental presence in the Eucharist.
In his opening lecture, my college apologetics professor posited an aphorism that has remained with me ever since: “If you deny one truth, you deny them all.” With that thought ringing in my head, I keep wondering whether the denial of one sacrament often leads to denying them all.
Specifically, if you don’t believe that God maintains a presence in sacramental marriage, it would seem much less likely to believe that he maintains a sacramental presence in the Eucharist.
A look at the Brebeuf appeal
A look at the Brebeuf appeal | In the Light of the LawEDPETERS: The ‘recourse’ (a kind of canonical appeal) taken by Brebeuf Jesuit Prep School against Indianapolis Abp. Charles Thompson’s decree last summer (discussed here), revoking recognition of BJPS as a “Catholic school”, indicates that the Indy Jesuits think being recognized as running a Catholic school is still important. Unfortunately, Pope John Paul II’s now-disheveled apostolic constitution Pastor Bonus (1988) by which the Roman Curia supposedly operates—a document that has undergone considerable tinkering by John Paul II, Benedict XVI, and Francis, and which is now slated for complete replacement—makes identifying what is being appealed to whom and on what basis difficult. A few points may be suggested.
Cardinal Sarah’s cri de coeur: The Catholic Church has lost her sense of the sacred
Cardinal Sarah’s Cri de Coeur: The Catholic Church Has Lost Its Sense of the SacredPENTIN: Cardinal Robert Sarah has said the Synod of Bishops on the Pan-Amazon Region, being a regional assembly of bishops, is not the forum to discuss priestly celibacy — a subject that is “unbearable” for the modern world because “some Westerners can no longer tolerate this scandal of the cross.”
The subject is one of many the prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments discusses in this exclusive Sept. 13 interview with Register Rome correspondent Edward Pentin, including the reasons why he decided to write his latest book, The Day Is Now Far Spent (Ignatius Press).
The subject is one of many the prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments discusses in this exclusive Sept. 13 interview with Register Rome correspondent Edward Pentin, including the reasons why he decided to write his latest book, The Day Is Now Far Spent (Ignatius Press).
Archaeologists find evidence for 6th-century B.C. biblical siege of Jerusalem
Archaeologists Find Evidence for a Biblical Siege of Jerusalem - D-brief: In the 6th century B.C., the Babylonian king Nebuchadnezzar II, fearful that the Egyptians would cut off the Babylonian trade routes to the eastern Mediterranean region known as the Levant, invaded and laid siege to Jerusalem to block them. His army destroyed the temple the Hebrew king Solomon built there, and forced the city’s elite to exile in Babylonia.
So began the Babylonian Exile or Captivity, an event that shaped modern Judaism. A new archaeological discovery puts a rare physical stamp of authenticity on an event described in the Hebrew Bible.
Israeli and American archaeologists have found evidence just outside Jerusalem’s old city that apparently supports the Biblical description. In an area called Mt. Zion, which is also known as Western Hill, they found the remains of a home of someone the Bible calls a “Big Man,” one of those probably sent to exile. He would have had a beautiful view of Solomon’s Temple, the holiest place for the Hebrews, and he may have left in a rush.
So began the Babylonian Exile or Captivity, an event that shaped modern Judaism. A new archaeological discovery puts a rare physical stamp of authenticity on an event described in the Hebrew Bible.
Israeli and American archaeologists have found evidence just outside Jerusalem’s old city that apparently supports the Biblical description. In an area called Mt. Zion, which is also known as Western Hill, they found the remains of a home of someone the Bible calls a “Big Man,” one of those probably sent to exile. He would have had a beautiful view of Solomon’s Temple, the holiest place for the Hebrews, and he may have left in a rush.
Catholic hospital in Canada ordered to provide services to assisted-suicide patients [autoplay video]
A Catholic hospital in Canada must provide services to assisted-suicide patients - CNN: A Catholic hospital in Nova Scotia must provide physician-assisted suicide assessments to eligible patients who request them, the province's public health service has ruled.
St. Martha's Regional Hospital will now perform assessments for patients seeking medical assistance in dying at its hospital, said Tim Guest, vice president of the Nova Scotia Health Authority (NSHA). The hospital was previously exempt because of its faith-based identity.
But the Sisters of St. Martha, the order of Catholic nuns who used to operate the hospital, said in a statement that assisted suicides will not take place at the hospital itself.
St. Martha's Regional Hospital will now perform assessments for patients seeking medical assistance in dying at its hospital, said Tim Guest, vice president of the Nova Scotia Health Authority (NSHA). The hospital was previously exempt because of its faith-based identity.
But the Sisters of St. Martha, the order of Catholic nuns who used to operate the hospital, said in a statement that assisted suicides will not take place at the hospital itself.
During WWII, a plane hit the Empire State Building and crashed into the office of the USCCB’s forerunner
Patti Maguire Armstrong: When a Plane Crashed the Empire State Building into Office of Forerunner to USCCBARMSTRONG: On a hazy morning on Saturday, July 28, 1945, a B‐25 bomber lost in the fog, crashed into the Empire State Building at the 79th floor, killing 14 people. It went right into the National Catholic Welfare Conference office which years later would become the United States Catholic Conference of Bishops, (USCCB).
During the rescue mission, the lines of one of the elevator cables snapped causing a young women elevator operator to fall down 75 flights. She survived.
During the rescue mission, the lines of one of the elevator cables snapped causing a young women elevator operator to fall down 75 flights. She survived.
10 everyday tasks you’re doing wrong
10 Everyday Tasks You're Doing Wrong | Mental Floss: No one likes to hear that they’re doing something wrong, but … you’re doing it wrong. Making simple tweaks to everyday tasks could lead to an easier life, time saved, and far less frustration.
Pope Francis, Andrea Bocelli visit street evangelization center
Pope Francis, Andrea Bocelli visit street evangelization center: Pope Francis and Andrea Bocelli made a surprise visit Tuesday to a rehabilitation center outside of Rome.
Arriving in a blue Ford Focus, the pope visited the headquarters of the “Nuovi Orizzonti,” or “New Horizons,” community, in Frosinone, Italy, Vatican News reported Sept. 24.
New Horizons is an Italian non-profit organization recognized by the Dicastery for the Laity, Family, and Life, that provides support through a faith-based “rehabilitative therapeutic program” for the poor and destitute on the streets.
Arriving in a blue Ford Focus, the pope visited the headquarters of the “Nuovi Orizzonti,” or “New Horizons,” community, in Frosinone, Italy, Vatican News reported Sept. 24.
New Horizons is an Italian non-profit organization recognized by the Dicastery for the Laity, Family, and Life, that provides support through a faith-based “rehabilitative therapeutic program” for the poor and destitute on the streets.
Notre Dame releases study on sexual harassment among U.S. seminarians
Notre Dame releases study on sexual harassment among U.S. seminarians: The University of Notre Dame Sept. 21 released a groundbreaking report that looked at sexual harassment in U.S. Catholic seminaries, revealing that just 6 percent of seminarians reported experiencing some form of sexual harassment or misconduct, while 90 percent reported none.
Another 4 percent said they might have experienced misconduct but were not sure. Of the 10 percent who reported they had experienced sexual harassment or indicated they might have, 80 percent identified a fellow seminary student or religious in formation as the alleged perpetrator.
Another 4 percent said they might have experienced misconduct but were not sure. Of the 10 percent who reported they had experienced sexual harassment or indicated they might have, 80 percent identified a fellow seminary student or religious in formation as the alleged perpetrator.
How you know when you’re not pious enough
How you know when you’re not pious enoughHOOPES: Last week, we discussed: “You know you’re too pious when ...”
On second thought, I should have called it, “You know you’re too religious when.” Piety is a virtue — and we need more true piety, not less.
As promised, here’s my follow up: How you know when you’re not pious enough.
First, Jesus made it very clear that lack of piety is as problematic as being too religious.
He repeatedly asks us to “watch and pray,” and said to “pray and not lose heart.” How much? He spent all night in prayer.
He wants us to be the salt of the earth and light of the world, which only happens through prayer — and if people don’t like it, he says we are blessed by their persecution.
On the other hand, he said, “Whoever is ashamed of me and of my words in this faithless and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of when he comes in his Father’s glory with the holy angels.”
On second thought, I should have called it, “You know you’re too religious when.” Piety is a virtue — and we need more true piety, not less.
As promised, here’s my follow up: How you know when you’re not pious enough.
First, Jesus made it very clear that lack of piety is as problematic as being too religious.
He repeatedly asks us to “watch and pray,” and said to “pray and not lose heart.” How much? He spent all night in prayer.
He wants us to be the salt of the earth and light of the world, which only happens through prayer — and if people don’t like it, he says we are blessed by their persecution.
On the other hand, he said, “Whoever is ashamed of me and of my words in this faithless and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of when he comes in his Father’s glory with the holy angels.”
Strong words from St. Augustine to those who would be shepherds...
Strong Words from St. Augustine to those Who Would Be Shepherds - Community in MissionPOPE: St. Augustine, reflecting on a text from Ezekiel, has some strong words for those who would be shepherds, be they bishops, priests, or deacons. Let’s examine two important observations he made during a longer sermon delivered to the priests and people of Hippo.
He begins with a lament over the failure of many shepherds to teach the truth:
After the Lord had shown what wicked shepherds esteem, he also spoke about what they neglect. The defects of the sheep are widespread. There are very few healthy and sound sheep, few that are solidly sustained by the food of truth, and few that enjoy the good pasture God gives them...
He begins with a lament over the failure of many shepherds to teach the truth:
After the Lord had shown what wicked shepherds esteem, he also spoke about what they neglect. The defects of the sheep are widespread. There are very few healthy and sound sheep, few that are solidly sustained by the food of truth, and few that enjoy the good pasture God gives them...
Cardinal Raymond Burke, Bishop Athanasius Schneider: “We are true friends of Pope Francis...”
Cardinal Burke, Bishop Schneider: Criticism of Errors is Fidelity to the PopePENTIN: Cardinal Raymond Burke and Bishop Athanasius Schneider have issued a statement asserting why they believe they have a duty in conscience to speak out against an “almost general doctrinal confusion” in the Church today, and why such criticism is made out of “great love for souls” and for Pope Francis. In the three-page Sept. 24 statement entitled A clarification about the meaning of fidelity to the Supreme Pontiff (see full text below), the patron of the Sovereign Order of Malta and the auxiliary bishop of Astana, Kazakhstan, say their consciences do “not allow us to be silent” in the face of ambiguities and doctrinal errors of this pontificate.
The bizarre behavior of rotating bodies, explained...
New Advent: The bizarre behavior of rotating bodies, explained...: This involves the best mathematician alive, Soviet-era secrets, and the end of the world...
Eight in 10 Americans tell pollsters: “My life has meaning.” Here’s who agrees the most...
What Americans Think About Poverty, Wealth, and Work | Cato Institute: Most Americans believe that they have purpose and meaning in their lives, and their beliefs about hard work, responsibility, and agency may have something to do with it.
Eight in 10 (83%) Americans agree “I feel like I have purpose in my life; my life has meaning” while 16% disagree. But some Americans find more meaning and purpose in their lives than others. A little less than half (46%) “strongly agree” that their lives have meaning and purpose and 37% “somewhat agree.”
Eight in 10 (83%) Americans agree “I feel like I have purpose in my life; my life has meaning” while 16% disagree. But some Americans find more meaning and purpose in their lives than others. A little less than half (46%) “strongly agree” that their lives have meaning and purpose and 37% “somewhat agree.”
What Catholic parents need to know before a son enters seminary
What Catholic Parents Need to Know Before a Son Enters Seminary — The Essential MotherLYONS: When my son was 5-years old, he rushed into our room in the middle of the night and announced that God wanted him to be a priest.
How do you know?
Because he told me!
And we moved on with life, doing what we had always done, living a life centered around the liturgy, learning, playing, and living life fully together…knowing that the true test of vocation doesn’t generally come like a flash in the night but through a steady relationship with Christ.
His interest in the faith continued to grow alongside his athletic and academic interests. He loved to serve at the altar and studied about the liturgy during his free time (and also when he was supposed to be doing his Math). We homeschooled, which allowed more flexibility in allowing Thomistic and liturgical passions to grow; and his interest in life, the fairer sex, and the priesthood grew together in a natural progression to manhood.
How do you know?
Because he told me!
And we moved on with life, doing what we had always done, living a life centered around the liturgy, learning, playing, and living life fully together…knowing that the true test of vocation doesn’t generally come like a flash in the night but through a steady relationship with Christ.
His interest in the faith continued to grow alongside his athletic and academic interests. He loved to serve at the altar and studied about the liturgy during his free time (and also when he was supposed to be doing his Math). We homeschooled, which allowed more flexibility in allowing Thomistic and liturgical passions to grow; and his interest in life, the fairer sex, and the priesthood grew together in a natural progression to manhood.
Monday, September 23, 2019
Vatican overrules Indianapolis archbishop, temporarily reinstates Jesuit school with teacher in same-sex ‘marriage’
Vatican office suspends Indy archdiocese's Brebeuf decision: A Vatican office has temporarily suspended the decision of the Archdiocese of Indianapolis to no longer recognize Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School as a Catholic institution over the school's refusal to fire a teacher in a same-sex marriage.
The decision of the archdiocese to cut ties with Brebeuf was announced in June in a decree from Archbishop Charles C. Thompson.
The school reached out to the Vatican's Congregation for Catholic Education in Rome to consider "the issues at hand and, hopefully, rescind and permanently set aside the Archbishop's decree."
The decision of the archdiocese to cut ties with Brebeuf was announced in June in a decree from Archbishop Charles C. Thompson.
The school reached out to the Vatican's Congregation for Catholic Education in Rome to consider "the issues at hand and, hopefully, rescind and permanently set aside the Archbishop's decree."
How to write your own encyclical
How to Write Your Own Encyclical - Crisis MagazineRUTLER: The cracks in the Axis powers became clear when the Armistice of Cassibile was announced on September 8, 1943, after the Italian government broke with the Nazis and joined the Western Allies. The National Socialists under the codename Unternehmen Alarich tried to take over the Italian zones of occupation in southern France and the Balkans before disarming the army of Italy itself, but they were foiled. Like the people they led, Hitler and Mussolini were birds of very different feathers, and their marriage of convenience was bound to fail. As languages reveal the psychology of the people who speak them, German and Italian are almost drolly unlike. For instance, German has many words for “invade,” such as berfallen, einfallen, and einmarschieren, while Italian for the most part simply has invadere, used more often than not in the passive tense.
Ask Father: “Can curses and diabolical attachments be handed from one generation to the next?”
ASK FATHER: Grandparents were Masons. Is there demonic attachment now for generations? | Fr. Z's BlogZUHLSDORF: Since I don’t know where you are, I am not sure whom you should talk to locally. However, I consulted a trusted exorcist about your question.
Our greatest concern should be ordinary, garden variety diabolical influence, namely, temptation.
Our own sins compromise our relationship with our Lord, not the sins of others. Nor do extraordinary diabolical interventions such as infestations, oppressions, obsessions, and possessions.
That said, Free Masons take oaths that can incur curses unto the fourth generation.
The Devil respects and takes advantage of the natural authority structures God has given us through the family. Just as there is the principle of redundancy in the order of grace (“grace flows downhill”), so does sin. This works in natural authority structures such as the family. It also works – especially – within supernatural authority structures (Holy Church, the papacy, episcopate, presbyterate). The Devil is also a legalist. If someone swears an oath, the Devil claims a right. That claim has to be broken.
Our greatest concern should be ordinary, garden variety diabolical influence, namely, temptation.
Our own sins compromise our relationship with our Lord, not the sins of others. Nor do extraordinary diabolical interventions such as infestations, oppressions, obsessions, and possessions.
That said, Free Masons take oaths that can incur curses unto the fourth generation.
The Devil respects and takes advantage of the natural authority structures God has given us through the family. Just as there is the principle of redundancy in the order of grace (“grace flows downhill”), so does sin. This works in natural authority structures such as the family. It also works – especially – within supernatural authority structures (Holy Church, the papacy, episcopate, presbyterate). The Devil is also a legalist. If someone swears an oath, the Devil claims a right. That claim has to be broken.
Pope Francis: ‘You cannot over-invest in spreading God’s Word through media’
Pope Francis: You cannot over-invest in spreading God's Word through media: When it comes to spreading the Word of God through media, no investment is too big, Pope Francis told officials and consultors of the Dicastery for Communication Monday.
In a prepared text given to participants in the Vatican's Sala Regia Sept. 23, the pope spoke about communication as a mission of the Church. “No investment is too high for the diffusion of the Word of God,” he said. “At the same time, every ‘talent’ should be well spent, taken advantage of.”
Pope Francis went on to say that “in reality, our strength alone is not enough,” and referenced an address of St. Paul VI in 1964, in which he told the Vatican’s then-social communications department that “a thought of faith must therefore support the smallness of our humble efforts.”
In a prepared text given to participants in the Vatican's Sala Regia Sept. 23, the pope spoke about communication as a mission of the Church. “No investment is too high for the diffusion of the Word of God,” he said. “At the same time, every ‘talent’ should be well spent, taken advantage of.”
Pope Francis went on to say that “in reality, our strength alone is not enough,” and referenced an address of St. Paul VI in 1964, in which he told the Vatican’s then-social communications department that “a thought of faith must therefore support the smallness of our humble efforts.”
The Supreme Court should rule against anti-Catholic Blaine amendments
Supreme Court Should Rule against Anti-Catholic Blaine Amendments | National ReviewLOPEZ: As a second-grader, Raelyn Sukhbir used to cry every night. She was being bullied “unmercifully” in the public school she was attending. Life at home was miserable because the poor girl was so anxious and despondent — which had her parents worried about how bad things might be all the rest of the time, when she wasn’t home. Raelyn “did not want to be around other kids and was clingy whenever we would visit friends,” her mother told lawyer Andrea Picciotti-Bayer. “She did not want to participate in any activities or sports.” Her father, a retired army veteran who was injured in Afghanistan, talked to the teachers and administrators, but there was no improvement.
There’s a connection between sound doctrine and civility
On the Connection Between Sound Doctrine and Civility - Community in MissionPOPE: A key theme of St. Paul’s Letters to Timothy and Titus, bishops he appointed to oversee the churches of Ephesus and Crete respectively, is their insistence on sound doctrine. He writes to Titus, “As for you, speak the things that are consistent with sound doctrine …” (Titus 2:1). He tells Timothy that if he passes on this doctrine to others, he “… will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, nourished by the words of faith and sound doctrine that you have followed” (1 Tim 4:6).
Sunday, September 22, 2019
The Holy Spirit and the Holy Bible
Beginning to Pray: The Holy Spirit and the Holy BibleLILLES: Since "all scripture is inspired by God" (2 Timothy 3:16) and "no prophecy of scripture is a matter of personal interpretation" (2 Peter 1:20), we need the manifold ways that the Holy Spirit works in the Church to enter deep into the truth of the Holy Bible. He who inspired men to write these words of the Word is the very One who can help us penetrate their deepest meanings when we allow those who He has chosen to minister to us. Yet this demands from us humble surrender, not to human authority, but to the Divine Authority exercised in the Church. Such an obedient surrender can only be learned in the school of prayer, fasting and sacrifice. Only insofar as we, the hearers of the Word, are surrendered to the Holy Spirit can the words of Sacred Scripture be "useful for teaching, for refutation, for correction, and for training in righteousness" (2 Timothy 3:16). Only then, do we become "doers of the Word" (James 1:22).
Pope’s Sunday Angelus: True wealth is found in friendship, not things
Pope Francis: True wealth is found in friendship, not things: People and relationships are more valuable than things and the truly wealthy are those who are rich in friends, Pope Francis said during the Angelus Sunday.
“Wealth can encourage the erection of walls, create divisions and discrimination,” the pope said Sept. 22, adding that “Jesus, by contrast, invites his disciples to change course: ‘Make friends with riches.’”
“It is an invitation to know how to transform goods and riches into relationships, because people are worth more than things and count more than the wealth they possess,” he explained.
“Wealth can encourage the erection of walls, create divisions and discrimination,” the pope said Sept. 22, adding that “Jesus, by contrast, invites his disciples to change course: ‘Make friends with riches.’”
“It is an invitation to know how to transform goods and riches into relationships, because people are worth more than things and count more than the wealth they possess,” he explained.
Don’t listen to the Parable of the Unjust Steward with a mistaken piety, or you’ll miss the point...
Holy Shrewdness - The Catholic ThingPAULSCALIA: Many Catholics misunderstand our Lord’s parables. We fall into a saccharine piety, thinking of them as fables, nice down-to-earth stories that teach religious lessons. This, by the way, accounts for a great deal of bad preaching. Suffering this superficial view of the parables, many priests think they can imitate the Master. Thus the banal personal stories or movie and cultural references that supposedly illustrate divine truths but in fact only empty them of significance.
In fact, Jesus’ parables always have more depth than a first – or second or third – reading reveals. Far from being merely homespun wisdom, they often contain a twist or a shock to upend conventional thinking.
In fact, Jesus’ parables always have more depth than a first – or second or third – reading reveals. Far from being merely homespun wisdom, they often contain a twist or a shock to upend conventional thinking.
I just watched ‘The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers’ again. Here’s what I thought...
Revisiting "The Two Towers" ~ The Imaginative ConservativePEARCE: I’ve just enjoyed the second of the three movie nights at a friend’s house watching the full extended editions of Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings. As I stated in last week’s essay describing my experience of watching The Fellowship of the Ring for the first time in many years, it’s intriguing to see how my judgment of Mr. Jackson’s films has changed or mellowed with time. This is especially true of The Two Towers, which is the film I enjoyed least of the three and the one which deviates most drastically from Tolkien’s book. I still suspect that this will be the one I consider the least good of the three, though I’m avoiding calling it the worst because such a word-choice would imply that it was bad, which it most definitely is not. In fact, it struck me as very good and much better than I’d remembered it being.
In praise of elderly and sick priests, plus three Crux notes
In praise of elderly and sick priests, plus three Crux notesALLEN: Where I grew up on the high plains of western Kansas, my small town was a largely Catholic island in a vast Protestant sea, served by the Capuchin Franciscans since the 19th century when they arrived alongside Volga German farmers who had been kicked out of Russia under Catherine the Great.
When you’re a kid you tend to think the adults around you are immortal, so it’s always a bit of a shock these days when I run into one of those Capuchins and see them as elderly, frail and sometimes ailing. Mostly it makes me feel guilty for having been such a precocious jerk back in the day, wishing I’d been conscious at the time of how lucky I was to be getting an education from these guys that a kid growing up in a trailer park in rural Kansas otherwise couldn’t have imagined.
When you’re a kid you tend to think the adults around you are immortal, so it’s always a bit of a shock these days when I run into one of those Capuchins and see them as elderly, frail and sometimes ailing. Mostly it makes me feel guilty for having been such a precocious jerk back in the day, wishing I’d been conscious at the time of how lucky I was to be getting an education from these guys that a kid growing up in a trailer park in rural Kansas otherwise couldn’t have imagined.
Saturday, September 21, 2019
Pan-Amazonian Synod participants include former UN head, liberation theologians
Pan-Amazonian Synod Participants Include Former UN Head, Liberation TheologiansPENTIN: Pope Francis has personally invited Cardinal Sean O’Malley of Boston and Bishop Robert McElroy of San Diego as well as ex-United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon to take part in the Amazon Synod next month, according to a full list of participants published Sept. 21 by the Vatican. The two U.S. prelates are among 185 members to be invited to the Oct. 6-27 event, whose other participants include every bishop of the region, religious superiors, experts, fraternal delegates, and the heads of Vatican departments.
In defense of archaisms
In Defense of Archaisms ~ The Imaginative ConservativePEARCE: The “coming peril” was not Bolshevism, G.K. Chesterton said in 1927, only ten years after the Bolshevik Revolution, it was “standardization by a low standard.” For Chesterton, ever the prophet, the surest way of destroying a utopia was to try to put it into practice. He knew that communism could never be anything but a tyranny and that its monstrous flaws would become evident once it had the power to expose its inherent wickedness. A far greater peril was to be found in the rise of “vulgarity,” the dumbing-down of everything to a lowest common denominator of mindless mediocrity. Today, almost a century later, we have seen the “coming peril” come to pass in every area of culture.
Cardinal O’Malley and Bishop McElroy nominated to Amazon Synod
Cardinal O'Malley and Bishop McElroy Nominated to Amazon Synod: Cardinal Sean O’Malley of Boston, and Bishop Robert McElroy of San Diego are among those chosen by Pope Francis as synod fathers in next month’s Amazon Synod.
A full list of the 185 participants in the Special Assembly for the Pan-Amazonian Region was published by the Vatican Sept. 21. The synod is set to take place Oct. 6-27.
Among those taking part are 33 bishops nominated by Pope Francis, including Cardinal O’Malley and Bishop McElroy, the only two U.S. bishops to be synod fathers in the Amazon Synod.
A full list of the 185 participants in the Special Assembly for the Pan-Amazonian Region was published by the Vatican Sept. 21. The synod is set to take place Oct. 6-27.
Among those taking part are 33 bishops nominated by Pope Francis, including Cardinal O’Malley and Bishop McElroy, the only two U.S. bishops to be synod fathers in the Amazon Synod.
Friday, September 20, 2019
On the power of liturgy and prayer
On the Power of Liturgy and Prayer - Community in MissionPOPE: There is a text from the Acts of the Apostles that sets forth quite well some of the qualities of the Sacred Liturgy. Although the “liturgy” cited in this passage is not a Mass, the description should apply to all our liturgies; from the Liturgy of the Hours to baptism, from a penance service to a full sung Mass. Let’s look at the passage and learn from it the power of liturgy to deliver, instruct, and transform us and the world.
Cardinal Marx holds ‘constructive dialogue’ with Pope Francis on synodal plans
Cardinal Marx holds 'constructive dialogue' with Pope Francis on synodal plans: Cardinal Reinhard Marx, president of the German Episcopal Conference, has held talks with Pope Francis and Cardinal Marc Ouellet, prefect of the Congregation for Bishops, about the German bishops’ plans for a “binding synodal path.”
The meetings, held in Rome Sept. 19, followed a public exchange between the German hierarchy and the Vatican over the draft statutes for a “Synodal Assembly” to be formed by the bishops in partnership with the Central Committee of German Catholics.
In a media release issued by the German bishops’ conference on Friday, Marx called the meetings “constructive,” but offered no details about any further instructions given by the pope or the Curia concerning the synodal plans.
The meetings, held in Rome Sept. 19, followed a public exchange between the German hierarchy and the Vatican over the draft statutes for a “Synodal Assembly” to be formed by the bishops in partnership with the Central Committee of German Catholics.
In a media release issued by the German bishops’ conference on Friday, Marx called the meetings “constructive,” but offered no details about any further instructions given by the pope or the Curia concerning the synodal plans.
Thursday, September 19, 2019
Praying to plants: Twitter explodes when Union Seminary holds one of its interfaith rites
Praying to plants: Twitter explodes when Union Seminary holds one of its interfaith rites — GetReligionMATTINGLY: Yes, this was click-bait heaven.
Yes, this was an oh-so-typical Twitter storm.
Yes, this was a perfect example of a “conservative story,” in a niche-news era in which social-media choirs — conservative in this case — send up clouds of laughs, jeers and gasps of alleged shock in response to some online signal.
I am referring, of course, to that climate-change confession service that happened at Union Theological Seminary, which has long been a Manhattan Maypole for the doctrinal dances that incarnate liberal Protestant trends in America.
Yes, this was an oh-so-typical Twitter storm.
Yes, this was a perfect example of a “conservative story,” in a niche-news era in which social-media choirs — conservative in this case — send up clouds of laughs, jeers and gasps of alleged shock in response to some online signal.
I am referring, of course, to that climate-change confession service that happened at Union Theological Seminary, which has long been a Manhattan Maypole for the doctrinal dances that incarnate liberal Protestant trends in America.
Why the Church Fathers called the Beatitudes the ‘staircase of conversion’
Staircase of Conversion - Pillar and BulwarkGRODI: In the image of Moses bringing the old Law down from Mount Sinai, our Lord gave the new Law to those who desired to grow closer to Him and thereby enter the kingdom. He gave this in a sermon on a mount of grass, out in a field, to people gathered around Him, enjoying the wind and the sun, the songs of birds and the camaraderie of family and friends.
Jesus talked about being blessed, about the qualities that this requires, and about rewards. We’ve all heard these Beatitudes, and usually they’re interpreted as separate promises referring, possibly, to separate groups of individuals
Jesus talked about being blessed, about the qualities that this requires, and about rewards. We’ve all heard these Beatitudes, and usually they’re interpreted as separate promises referring, possibly, to separate groups of individuals
Eight-part ‘Messiah’ series is a ‘crash course on the Bible and salvation history’
Local filmmaker, collaborators create ‘Messiah’: Local independent filmmaker Rick Rotondi says the seed for his first production, “Messiah,” was planted in 2016 during a general audience in St. Peter’s Square in Rome.
“As I looked out on my fellow pilgrims and heard Pope Francis address us in many languages, I was moved by the reality of Christ risen and present,” Rotondi recalls. “Before our eyes, He was assembling His people. He was enlightening the nations. Rome, the empire which put Him to death and persecuted His Church, was under His feet.
“As I looked out on my fellow pilgrims and heard Pope Francis address us in many languages, I was moved by the reality of Christ risen and present,” Rotondi recalls. “Before our eyes, He was assembling His people. He was enlightening the nations. Rome, the empire which put Him to death and persecuted His Church, was under His feet.
How a fake mountain range slowed down Arctic exploration
How a Fake Mountain Range Slowed Down Arctic Exploration: On August 31st, 1818, around 3 p.m., the Arctic explorer John Ross was called away from his dinner and onto the deck of the ship he commanded, the Isabella. Ross and his crew were moored in Baffin Bay, just south of Greenland, seeking a way through to the Arctic sea beyond. All day, they had been waiting for the fog to clear, so they could take a look around and try to find it.
The prayer of the priest drives the prayer of the whole Church
Beginning to Pray: The Priesthood and PrayerLILLES: Christ is the Great High Priest — and because of His priesthood on our behalf, our prayers are raised to heaven and heard by the Father. The Risen Lord intercedes for us in the sanctuary not made by human hands, and He is at work in the world, fully present to our needs. This is what makes Christian prayer unique. By faith, the One who mediates the blessings of God the Father to us and who has won for us the forgiveness of our sins, also presents to the Father our sorrows and joys, hopes and fears in such a way that all of heaven becomes implicated in our plight.
Blood of St. Januarius liquefies on feast day
Blood of St. Januarius liquefies on feast day: The miracle of the liquefaction of the blood of early Church martyr St. Januarius took place Thursday in Naples.
The blood was shown to have liquefied shortly after 10 a.m. during Mass in the Naples’ Cathedral of the Assumption of Mary.
The Mass was celebrated by Cardinal Crescenzio Sepe, Archbishop of Naples, who in his homily, strongly criticized the violent crime of Neapolitan streets.
The blood was shown to have liquefied shortly after 10 a.m. during Mass in the Naples’ Cathedral of the Assumption of Mary.
The Mass was celebrated by Cardinal Crescenzio Sepe, Archbishop of Naples, who in his homily, strongly criticized the violent crime of Neapolitan streets.
Brad Pitt aims for the stars but falls short in ‘Ad Astra’ (Rotten Tomatoes 80%)
SDG Reviews ‘Ad Astra’: Brad Pitt Aims for the Stars but Falls ShortGREYDANUS: There seems to be no reason for the title Ad Astra, meaning “to the stars,” to be in Latin, except to highlight writer-director James Gray’s elevated intentions.
Deliberate, downbeat, vast in scope and theme but emotionally intimate, it evokes — at times overtly — the likes of 2001: A Space Odyssey, Solaris, Contact and Arrival. In particular it recalls Christopher Nolan’s Interstellar, and not only because of the sweeping, naturalistic visual sensibility that Dutch cinematographer Hoyte van Hoytema brought to both films.
With introspective voice-over narration, religious references and resonances, daddy issues and a stoic lead performance by Brad Pitt, Ad Astra may also put some viewers in mind of Terrence Malick’s The Tree of Life. In fact, it feels in some ways not unlike someone’s idea of a Malick space-travel epic — in some ways, that is, except in what matters most: transcendence, which Ad Astra pointedly lacks, even repudiates.
Deliberate, downbeat, vast in scope and theme but emotionally intimate, it evokes — at times overtly — the likes of 2001: A Space Odyssey, Solaris, Contact and Arrival. In particular it recalls Christopher Nolan’s Interstellar, and not only because of the sweeping, naturalistic visual sensibility that Dutch cinematographer Hoyte van Hoytema brought to both films.
With introspective voice-over narration, religious references and resonances, daddy issues and a stoic lead performance by Brad Pitt, Ad Astra may also put some viewers in mind of Terrence Malick’s The Tree of Life. In fact, it feels in some ways not unlike someone’s idea of a Malick space-travel epic — in some ways, that is, except in what matters most: transcendence, which Ad Astra pointedly lacks, even repudiates.
Father James Martin and Catholic belief
Father James Martin and Catholic belief – Catholic PhillyCHAPUT: Father James Martin, S.J., spoke at St. Joseph’s University earlier this week (Tuesday, September 17) on themes related to his book Building A Bridge. And as I expected, quite a few emails arrived in my inbox questioning his teaching on same-sex related issues and urging me to prevent his appearance. A local bishop is typically unable to do that, since most Catholic universities operate under the authority of the religious community that sponsors them.
Father Martin has also, at times, been the target of bitter personal attacks. As I’ve said previously, such attacks are inexcusable and unChristian.
In reality, Father Martin has sought in a dedicated way to accompany and support people with same-sex attraction and gender dysphoria. Many of his efforts have been laudable, and we need to join him in stressing the dignity of persons in such situations.
Father Martin has also, at times, been the target of bitter personal attacks. As I’ve said previously, such attacks are inexcusable and unChristian.
In reality, Father Martin has sought in a dedicated way to accompany and support people with same-sex attraction and gender dysphoria. Many of his efforts have been laudable, and we need to join him in stressing the dignity of persons in such situations.
Archbishop Chaput warns Catholics against Father James Martin’s ‘pattern of ambiguity’
Archbishop Chaput Warns Catholics Against Father Martin’s ‘Pattern of Ambiguity’: In the wake of Jesuit Father James Martin’s speaking engagement Tuesday at a Catholic university in Philadelphia, the archbishop of Philadelphia urged caution about the priest’s message, especially regarding the possibility that Catholic teaching on sexuality might change. “Father Martin has sought in a dedicated way to accompany and support people with same-sex attraction and gender dysphoria,” Archbishop Charles Chaput wrote in a Sept. 19 column published on his archdiocesan website. “Many of his efforts have been laudable, and we need to join him in stressing the dignity of persons in such situations.”
From ‘Star Wars’ to ‘The Shining,’ why the 13th-century ‘Dies Irae’ shows up in so many movies
New Advent: From ‘Star Wars’ to ‘The Shining,’ why the 13th-century ‘Dies Irae’ shows up in so many movies: As Catholicism permeated world culture, the melody of the Dies Irae found its way into classical music, where it was used to convey a deathly, eerie tone. From there it worked its way into films — and if you don’t already know it, you’ve almost certainly heard it before: It’s played over and over in our scariest and most dramatic cinematic moments.
Wednesday, September 18, 2019
Texas priest survives attempted shooting — suspects’ gun fails to fire three times
Texas Priest Miraculously Survives Attempted Shooting, Suspects’ Gun Fails to Fire Three Times | ChurchPOP: While holding out his rosary, Rev. Desmond Ohankwere credits “divine intervention” for saving his life after four men assaulted him at gunpoint outside his home near St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church in Houston.
The Associated Press reported that the four men involved first stole an SUV from a gas station while the owner filled it with fuel. They then encountered the priest walking and praying the rosary in a nearby Catholic Church parking lot after the SUV ran out of gas.
The men robbed him, taking his keys and two cell phones. However, they did not take his rosary.
On his knees praying for God to spare is life, the suspect attempted to fire the gun twice, pointing it to his head. The trigger failed both times.
The Associated Press reported that the four men involved first stole an SUV from a gas station while the owner filled it with fuel. They then encountered the priest walking and praying the rosary in a nearby Catholic Church parking lot after the SUV ran out of gas.
The men robbed him, taking his keys and two cell phones. However, they did not take his rosary.
On his knees praying for God to spare is life, the suspect attempted to fire the gun twice, pointing it to his head. The trigger failed both times.
7 apps (including a Bible) you should delete from your phone right now
How to Delete Apps on iPhone | Background Apps: The smartphone, for all its life-changing magic, sucks. It sucks up your time, it sucks up your battery, and it sucks up your data. So we've compiled a list of the apps you should wipe from your phone, stat: those that track you, harm your mental health, and pretend to care about your privacy, but don't practice what they preach. Delete 'em now and never look back.
The threat of schism is real, but it comes from Germany, not the United States
Threat of Schism Comes From Germany, Not United StatesDESOUZA: Talk of schism in the Church is “promiscuous” now, writes New York Times columnist Ross Douthat. Pope Francis addressed it at length on his return flight from Madagascar. But where is the danger of schism? It is far more likely from Germany, where bishops are openly defying the Holy Father, than from the United States.
The question of potential schism was raised on the recent papal flights to and from Africa. On the outbound flight, presented with a book accusing some Americans of plotting to overthrow the Pope, the Holy Father said that “it is an honor when the Americans attack me.”
Papal spokesman Matteo Bruni then quickly turned that inside out to mean that the Holy Father greatly respects American viewpoints. That didn’t fly with the press corps, so Pope Francis was asked about it on the flight home, in response to which he confessed that he didn’t want schism, but “did not fear it.”
The question of potential schism was raised on the recent papal flights to and from Africa. On the outbound flight, presented with a book accusing some Americans of plotting to overthrow the Pope, the Holy Father said that “it is an honor when the Americans attack me.”
Papal spokesman Matteo Bruni then quickly turned that inside out to mean that the Holy Father greatly respects American viewpoints. That didn’t fly with the press corps, so Pope Francis was asked about it on the flight home, in response to which he confessed that he didn’t want schism, but “did not fear it.”
Ironies in the fire
Ironies in the fire - Denver CatholicWEIGEL: The eminent sociologist Peter Rossi was a world-class punster whose scholarly accomplishments fed a sometimes-whimsical view of the human condition — in which, Rossi memorably observed, “there are many ironies in the fire.”
That’s certainly true of the interaction between Catholicism and cultural, social, and political modernity over the last 250 years. The multiple ironies in that complex relationship, and their surprising results, are explored in my new book, The Irony of Modern Catholic History: How the Church Rediscovered Itself and Challenged the Modern World to Reform (Basic Books), in which I turn the conventional telling of this tale inside-out and upside-down.
That’s certainly true of the interaction between Catholicism and cultural, social, and political modernity over the last 250 years. The multiple ironies in that complex relationship, and their surprising results, are explored in my new book, The Irony of Modern Catholic History: How the Church Rediscovered Itself and Challenged the Modern World to Reform (Basic Books), in which I turn the conventional telling of this tale inside-out and upside-down.
Who benefits from all this talk of schism?
Who benefits from all this talk of schism? | Catholic CultureLAWLER: Why are we even talking about schism? Who began this extraordinary conversation, and whose interests are served by it?
Ross Douthat of the New York Times admits that he used the term “schism” long ago, as a theoretical possibility—which he now (rightly) regards as remote. But now Pope Francis speaks calmly about the prospect of schism, and even says that it does not frighten him—which, as I’ve pointed out, is frightening in itself.
How did we come so far, so fast? How did we reach a point at which the nation’s most prestigious secular newspaper raises the notion that American Catholics might split from the universal Church, and the Pontiff treats that prospect as a serious possibility?
Ross Douthat of the New York Times admits that he used the term “schism” long ago, as a theoretical possibility—which he now (rightly) regards as remote. But now Pope Francis speaks calmly about the prospect of schism, and even says that it does not frighten him—which, as I’ve pointed out, is frightening in itself.
How did we come so far, so fast? How did we reach a point at which the nation’s most prestigious secular newspaper raises the notion that American Catholics might split from the universal Church, and the Pontiff treats that prospect as a serious possibility?
No one seems to know what will happen after Brexit. No one, that is, except me...
Brexit Won't Fix It - Crisis MagazineTURLEY: In case you haven’t noticed, the United Kingdom is going through a collective political meltdown.
The 2016 referendum on Britain’s membership in the European Union proved to be the pulled thread that is unraveling the seemingly seamless garment of the British constitution. Now as the shrewd observer will know, unlike the U.S. Constitution, the British one is unwritten—so, worth the paper it’s not written on? Not quite, it seems, as we enter into a constitutional crisis.
And it really is becoming a crisis. Britain’s political stasis over the EU is not, however, something that will end on October 31st, even if Boris Johnson manages to exit the supra-political structure that Britain joined on January 1st, 1973. “When will the Brexit crisis end?” I was recently asked by an American radio host. “Not in my lifetime,” I replied to his puzzlement.
The 2016 referendum on Britain’s membership in the European Union proved to be the pulled thread that is unraveling the seemingly seamless garment of the British constitution. Now as the shrewd observer will know, unlike the U.S. Constitution, the British one is unwritten—so, worth the paper it’s not written on? Not quite, it seems, as we enter into a constitutional crisis.
And it really is becoming a crisis. Britain’s political stasis over the EU is not, however, something that will end on October 31st, even if Boris Johnson manages to exit the supra-political structure that Britain joined on January 1st, 1973. “When will the Brexit crisis end?” I was recently asked by an American radio host. “Not in my lifetime,” I replied to his puzzlement.
How this introvert got super-involved at her parish
How This Introvert Got Super Involved at Her Parish – WE'RE LATE FOR CHURCHGERD: I was caught off guard recently by someone’s response to meeting me. While shaking her hand, I made the customary smiling introduction. “Nice to meet you. My name is…” I had barely gotten my name out when recognition instantly spread across her face.
“I totally know that name! I see your name attached to everything here.”
With that string of innocuous words, I was suddenly rendered self-conscious and exposed, as if she’d said, “I can tell you had spinach for dinner. You have a hideous green thing in your teeth.”
“I totally know that name! I see your name attached to everything here.”
With that string of innocuous words, I was suddenly rendered self-conscious and exposed, as if she’d said, “I can tell you had spinach for dinner. You have a hideous green thing in your teeth.”
The Church is a bride, not a widow
The Church Is a Bride, Not a Widow - Community in MissionPOPE: Venerable Fulton J. Sheen once wrote, “The Church knows after 1900 years’ experience that any institution which suits the spirit of any age will be a widow in the next one” (War and Guilt, OSV Press, 1941, pp. 138-139).
This is a clear admonition to the many who demand that the Church update her teachings, particularly her moral doctrines, and the dogma that salvation is exclusively through Jesus Christ. Some say that the Catholic Church is hopelessly out-of-date and irrelevant. Some point out that even her own members disagree with a large number of her teachings. But the role of the Church is not to reflect the age or even the views of her members; it is to represent the teachings of her head and founder, Jesus Christ.
This is a clear admonition to the many who demand that the Church update her teachings, particularly her moral doctrines, and the dogma that salvation is exclusively through Jesus Christ. Some say that the Catholic Church is hopelessly out-of-date and irrelevant. Some point out that even her own members disagree with a large number of her teachings. But the role of the Church is not to reflect the age or even the views of her members; it is to represent the teachings of her head and founder, Jesus Christ.
Neither Jesus nor Socrates were published authors
Socrates and Jesus: On dangerous teaching methods and the lack of published works | Classical Catholic EducationLANGLEY: Jesus and Socrates are alike in two striking ways. Not that we are the first to compare the two. Actually, I am singularly unversed in what other thinkers like Montaigne and Mill, Kierkegaard and Nietzsche had to say about the matter, but I am confident that what I shall say will probably be more enjoyable and accessible to other simple souls like myself who are not quite so inclined for heavy reading in the evenings! Now before we proceed, let us acknowledge that one of these men was also God.
So perhaps you might object, along Euclidean lines, that one should not make comparisons between things that are of different kinds. One should not compare apples to oranges.
But even my clever students can answer this silly objection – and they would do so with obliging and courteous finesse. And they will undoubtedly use the old scholastic ‘qua‘ technique! The three little letters QUA provide the fledgling debater with 80% of everything he will ever need to escape from difficult positions and answer tricky objections.
So perhaps you might object, along Euclidean lines, that one should not make comparisons between things that are of different kinds. One should not compare apples to oranges.
But even my clever students can answer this silly objection – and they would do so with obliging and courteous finesse. And they will undoubtedly use the old scholastic ‘qua‘ technique! The three little letters QUA provide the fledgling debater with 80% of everything he will ever need to escape from difficult positions and answer tricky objections.
Stay and fight for the Church and life
Stay and Fight for the Church and Life | National ReviewLOPEZ: Our culture can be harsh in all kinds of cruel ways. There’s something here in the trails of this holy site that reminds us that no matter the circumstances we find ourselves in, we can be who we say we are. Father Jogues had been subjected to torture. He escaped but came back for the people he loved whom he had baptized. He wanted to serve and be a priest for the people who wanted Jesus in their lives. Surely, even in the face of evil in the Church and in the world, Christians can stay. By all means come here or another place of pilgrimage and be renewed. Because the legacy of these martyrs and this young, courageous girl is who we are — the evil isn’t. And the world — people of all faiths — needs people who believe the truths of the Gospel and who want to live His mandate of love in the world.
New report on Amazon mafias draws on church-collected data on rural violence
New report on Amazon mafias draws on church-collected data on rural violenceALLEN: Signaling a topic likely to surface during next month’s Synod of Bishops on the Amazon convened by Pope Francis, a human rights group has released a new report asserting that criminal gangs often are behind the destruction of the rainforest, menacing and even killing police, government officials and activists who try to stop them.
“Illegal deforestation in the Brazilian Amazon is driven largely by criminal networks that have the logistical capacity to coordinate large-scale extraction, processing, and sale of timber, while deploying armed men to protect their interests,” the report states.
“Illegal deforestation in the Brazilian Amazon is driven largely by criminal networks that have the logistical capacity to coordinate large-scale extraction, processing, and sale of timber, while deploying armed men to protect their interests,” the report states.
Number of abortions in U.S. falls to lowest level since 1973
Number of abortions in US falls to lowest since 1973: The number and rate of abortions across the United States have plunged to their lowest levels since the procedure became legal nationwide in 1973, according to new figures released Wednesday.
The report from the Guttmacher Institute, a research group that supports abortion rights, counted 862,000 abortions in the U.S. in 2017. That’s down from 926,000 tallied in the group’s previous report for 2014, and from just over 1 million counted for 2011.
The report from the Guttmacher Institute, a research group that supports abortion rights, counted 862,000 abortions in the U.S. in 2017. That’s down from 926,000 tallied in the group’s previous report for 2014, and from just over 1 million counted for 2011.
Tuesday, September 17, 2019
Drinking (and not drinking) in Dublin
Drinking . . . and Not Drinking in Dublin – Building Catholic CultureSTAUDT: Dublin is known for its drink. As author of The Beer Option, I had to explore this tradition, even if it was driven by Protestants at a time Catholics suffered under the penal laws. In the book, I drew from Mansfield’s The Search for God and Guinness, and it seemed wise to stop by Ireland’s number one tourist destination, the Guinness Storehouse. The Guinness family ardently supported the Church of Ireland, but also took good care of their workers, most of whom were Catholic, providing them housing, healthcare, good wages, and education.
John Clark’s ‘Professors on Break’ series is off to a great start...
Professors on Break | Christendom CollegeCLARK: In this episode, Clark meets up with theology professor Dr. Matthew Tsakanikas in an Audi R8 Spider. In this episode, Clark meets up with philosophy professor Dr. John Cuddeback in his 1990-something Chevy Suburban.
Scrupulosity is an obstacle to truth
Scrupulosity Is An Obstacle to Truth - Magis CenterCLARK: These words were spoken in “A Few Good Men,” a 1992 taut legal thriller about the prosecution of two Marines who accidentally killed another Marine during a terrifying “disciplinary” exercise. Their defense attorney, played by Tom Cruise, sought to understand what exactly took place during the incident, and why it took place.
His defense was that, though they did perform the actions in question, the Marines were ordered to carry out this heinous exercise by their Marine commander, played by Jack Nicholson.
In a loud and heated exchange, the defense attorney yells at the Marine commander at the top of his lungs: “I want the truth!”
His defense was that, though they did perform the actions in question, the Marines were ordered to carry out this heinous exercise by their Marine commander, played by Jack Nicholson.
In a loud and heated exchange, the defense attorney yells at the Marine commander at the top of his lungs: “I want the truth!”
The secret to dying well, according to St. Robert Bellarmine
The secret to dying well, according to St. Robert Bellarmine AleteiaKOSLOSKI: As much as we may try to avoid or “cheat” death, prolonging our lives as much as possible, death will come knocking at our door soon enough. It is inescapable in this world and so the question is not if we will die, but how we will die. Death is something that can come to us unexpectedly, but that does not mean that we can’t prepare for it. Many of the saints tried to live every day as if it were their last, and prepared for death daily. For them, death was always around the corner and they welcomed it with open arms.
Vatican to try two priests for alleged abuse of altar boys in St. Peter’s Basilica
Vatican to try two priests for alleged abuse of altar boys in St. Peter's BasilicaALLEN: Vatican magistrates have decided that one priest accused of sexually abusing underage altar boys who served in St. Peter’s Basilica, and another accused of facilitating that abuse, will be put on trial, according to a statement released Tuesday.
The statement said that the Vatican’s Promoter of Justice has recommended that Father Gabriele Martinelli stand trial over charges of sexual abuse, and that Father Enrico Radice also be tried over charges of covering up that abuse.
“Investigations began in 2017 following news reports in the press,” the statement said, released late Tuesday Rome time by the Vatican Press Office.
The statement said that the Vatican’s Promoter of Justice has recommended that Father Gabriele Martinelli stand trial over charges of sexual abuse, and that Father Enrico Radice also be tried over charges of covering up that abuse.
“Investigations began in 2017 following news reports in the press,” the statement said, released late Tuesday Rome time by the Vatican Press Office.
A prescription for peace in a world of woe
A Prescription for Peace in a World of Woe - Community in MissionPOPE: Jesus journeyed to a city called Nain, and his disciples and a large crowd accompanied him.
The name of the city, Nain, means fair (in the sense of beautiful)—and it was, for it sat upon a high hill and commanded a magnificent view.
This is an apt description of this world as well, which has its beauty, its magnificent vistas, and its pleasures and offerings. As men and women of faith, we ought to appreciate the beauty of what God has created. It makes God angry, to quote Alice Walker’s The Color Purple, “when you walk by the color purple in a field somewhere and don’t notice it.” God has given us many gifts and the mystic in all of us is invited to wonder, awe, gratitude, and serene joy.
Thus, we have the first prescription for peace. The world, with all its woe, never loses the beauty of God’s glory. Appreciating this brings serene peace even in the midst of storms. God is always present and speaking to us in what He has made and is continually sustaining.
The name of the city, Nain, means fair (in the sense of beautiful)—and it was, for it sat upon a high hill and commanded a magnificent view.
This is an apt description of this world as well, which has its beauty, its magnificent vistas, and its pleasures and offerings. As men and women of faith, we ought to appreciate the beauty of what God has created. It makes God angry, to quote Alice Walker’s The Color Purple, “when you walk by the color purple in a field somewhere and don’t notice it.” God has given us many gifts and the mystic in all of us is invited to wonder, awe, gratitude, and serene joy.
Thus, we have the first prescription for peace. The world, with all its woe, never loses the beauty of God’s glory. Appreciating this brings serene peace even in the midst of storms. God is always present and speaking to us in what He has made and is continually sustaining.
Cardinal Pell submits final appeal to Australian High Court
Cardinal Pell Submits Appeal to Australian High Court: Cardinal George Pell Tuesday submitted an application for leave to appeal his conviction to the Australian High Court, following the Aug. 21 decision by the Court of Appeal in Victoria to uphold his conviction for child sexual abuse.
The leave to appeal was filed in Melbourne by Pell's legal team Sept. 17, one day before the deadline of 28 days from the date of the Appeal Court decision.
Sources close to the cardinal told CNA Aug. 26 that Cardinal 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.
The leave to appeal was filed in Melbourne by Pell's legal team Sept. 17, one day before the deadline of 28 days from the date of the Appeal Court decision.
Sources close to the cardinal told CNA Aug. 26 that Cardinal 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.
Monday, September 16, 2019
Here are 14 of the most impressive Christian sculptures of all time
Take a Look at the Most Impressive Christian Sculptures of All TimeCRITES: The Catholic Church has a rich history of commissioning world-renowned artists of the day to create beautiful works to decorate churches with the realities of the faith. From the 14th century to today, sculptures of Christ, the Blessed Mother, biblical figures and saints give us reason to pause and ponder the realities of the faith and the beauty of creation.
Cardinal Marx says German ‘synod’ will proceed despite Vatican objections
Marx says German 'synod' will proceed despite Vatican objectionsCONDON: The head of the German bishops’ conference told Vatican officials last week that addressing controversial theological topics during the German bishops’ proposed “binding synodal path” will be a service to the universal Church.
“We hope that the results of forming an opinion [on these matters] in our country will also be helpful for the guidance of the Universal Church and for other episcopal conferences on a case-by-case basis. In any case, I cannot see why questions about which the Magisterium has made determinations should be withdrawn from any debate, as your writings suggest,” Cardinal Reinhard Marx wrote in a Sept. 12 letter to Cardinal Marc Ouellet, who is head of the Vatican’ Congregation for Bishops.
“We hope that the results of forming an opinion [on these matters] in our country will also be helpful for the guidance of the Universal Church and for other episcopal conferences on a case-by-case basis. In any case, I cannot see why questions about which the Magisterium has made determinations should be withdrawn from any debate, as your writings suggest,” Cardinal Reinhard Marx wrote in a Sept. 12 letter to Cardinal Marc Ouellet, who is head of the Vatican’ Congregation for Bishops.
Maradona documentary packs plenty of Catholic imagery to go with its soccer
Maradona documentary packs plenty of Catholic imagery to go with its soccer — Religion UnpluggedLISI: There is no other soccer player — perhaps with the exception of Pele — who has had a bigger impact on the sport than Diego Maradona. The eponymous documentary directed by Asif Kapadia illustrates the magnitude with which the Argentine-born star impacted the game throughout the 1980s and how soccer’s biggest deity went from heaven to a dramatic fall from grace.
That sports figures are worshipped like gods isn’t new. Many already consider soccer the world’s biggest religion. After all, it is the planet’s most popular sport. It’s therefore no surprise that one of the sport’s best players would be elevated to such heights. While Maradona led Argentina to a World Cup title in 1986, it was his time playing in the Italian city of Naples that elevated him to god-like status. Indeed, before there was Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, the best soccer player in the world was Maradona.
That sports figures are worshipped like gods isn’t new. Many already consider soccer the world’s biggest religion. After all, it is the planet’s most popular sport. It’s therefore no surprise that one of the sport’s best players would be elevated to such heights. While Maradona led Argentina to a World Cup title in 1986, it was his time playing in the Italian city of Naples that elevated him to god-like status. Indeed, before there was Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, the best soccer player in the world was Maradona.
God lovingly leads us. Enjoy the view — no map required...
No Map Required – WE'RE LATE FOR CHURCHGERD: Recently, I overheard a snippet of a private conversation between strangers. While it could technically be classified as eavesdropping, I’m certain God didn’t mind my listening in. In fact, though the conversation was not expressly intended for my ears, witnessing the seemingly chance encounter may have been part of God’s plan. Looking back, he was leading me to a spiritual breakthrough. In other words, even God can bring good out of my inclination for being nosy.
Fruitfulness in ministry should be named more than numbered...
Fruitfulness In Ministry Should Be Named More Than Numbered! - Catholic Missionary Disciples - College Station, TXLEJEUNE: When I was in college, I took several semesters of archery. I really loved shooting arrows at targets, but what ultimately won me over was the nature of archery; you immediately know how you are doing, based on where you hit the target. Still, there was one time that I hit a bullseye, which scored a zero because I was aiming at the wrong target! The problem is - too many Catholic parishes and dioceses are aiming for the wrong thing and miss the target. Then when questions arise about why the results they expected aren’t happening, they are puzzled.
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