Monday, November 8, 2004
Sunday, November 7, 2004
O' Donnel's Adopted Son--"I want to have a daddy."
From Zenit News Agency - The World Seen From Rome:
"We have already seen an example of this. Rosie O'Donnell, a very public lesbian and advocate for lesbian adoption, was asked what she would do if her adopted son wanted a father. According to O'Donnell, her son had already expressed that desire. When he was 6, he said, 'I want to have a daddy.'
O'Donnell replied, 'If you were to have a daddy, you wouldn't have me as a mommy because I'm the kind of mommy who wants another mommy. This is the way mommy got born.' He said, 'OK, I'll just keep you.'
While O'Donnell undoubtedly sees this as a positive affirmation of same-sex adoption, there is another interpretation: She made her son feel that his natural desire for a father is a rejection of her. That is a terrible burden to place on a little boy.
And it gets worse. In the same interview, O'Donnell recounted how she explained adoption to her son: '... he understands that there are different types of people; that he grew up in another lady's tummy, and that God looked inside and saw there was a mix-up and that God brought him to me.'
In other words, in light of this and the previous conversation between O'Donnell and her son, it is wrong for him to want a daddy because God decided that he shouldn't have one. "
"We have already seen an example of this. Rosie O'Donnell, a very public lesbian and advocate for lesbian adoption, was asked what she would do if her adopted son wanted a father. According to O'Donnell, her son had already expressed that desire. When he was 6, he said, 'I want to have a daddy.'
O'Donnell replied, 'If you were to have a daddy, you wouldn't have me as a mommy because I'm the kind of mommy who wants another mommy. This is the way mommy got born.' He said, 'OK, I'll just keep you.'
While O'Donnell undoubtedly sees this as a positive affirmation of same-sex adoption, there is another interpretation: She made her son feel that his natural desire for a father is a rejection of her. That is a terrible burden to place on a little boy.
And it gets worse. In the same interview, O'Donnell recounted how she explained adoption to her son: '... he understands that there are different types of people; that he grew up in another lady's tummy, and that God looked inside and saw there was a mix-up and that God brought him to me.'
In other words, in light of this and the previous conversation between O'Donnell and her son, it is wrong for him to want a daddy because God decided that he shouldn't have one. "
Iraq Declares State of Emergency
From Yahoo! News - Iraq Declares State of Emergency:
"The government declared a 60-day state of emergency throughout most of the country Sunday, as U.S. and Iraqi forces prepared for an expected all-out assault on rebels in Fallujah. Insurgents escalated a wave of violence that has killed more than 50 people the past two days, and a U.S. soldier was killed in an attack on a convoy."
"The government declared a 60-day state of emergency throughout most of the country Sunday, as U.S. and Iraqi forces prepared for an expected all-out assault on rebels in Fallujah. Insurgents escalated a wave of violence that has killed more than 50 people the past two days, and a U.S. soldier was killed in an attack on a convoy."
Saturday, November 6, 2004
Time for Foley to Go as AD of Florida
As usual Bianchi is right and entertaining at the same time. When Spurrier quit they were in a hurry to replace him, now after firing Zook in the middle of the season they seem incapable of replacing him....
And here is a prediction: If they hire Urban Meyer who has had success at a MAC school and now at Iowa, look for Florida to post records worst than those of the Zook era....the SEC isn't anything like those conferences.
From All Spurrier truly wanted was a job offer: South Florida Sun-Sentinel:
"Foley was adamant again Friday about how imperative it is for UF to conduct a comprehensive search to make sure the Gators hire the best coach available. Maybe he's right, but I believe he's wrong. Foley, who knows better than anybody how Spurrier thinks, surely had an idea that this 'national search' likely would cost UF a chance to bring back Spurrier.
I give up on trying to figure out the modus operandi UF uses to hire football coaches.
Three years ago, the Gators rushed through the process and hired the wrong coach. Now, they're taking their sweet time, and it likely cost them the right coach."
And here is a prediction: If they hire Urban Meyer who has had success at a MAC school and now at Iowa, look for Florida to post records worst than those of the Zook era....the SEC isn't anything like those conferences.
From All Spurrier truly wanted was a job offer: South Florida Sun-Sentinel:
"Foley was adamant again Friday about how imperative it is for UF to conduct a comprehensive search to make sure the Gators hire the best coach available. Maybe he's right, but I believe he's wrong. Foley, who knows better than anybody how Spurrier thinks, surely had an idea that this 'national search' likely would cost UF a chance to bring back Spurrier.
I give up on trying to figure out the modus operandi UF uses to hire football coaches.
Three years ago, the Gators rushed through the process and hired the wrong coach. Now, they're taking their sweet time, and it likely cost them the right coach."
Evangelize!
From Zenit News Agency - The World Seen From Rome:
"'We Catholics don't provoke anyone, but we mustn't be afraid to confess our faith in public,' the cardinal exhorted.
With 'two-thirds of humanity who do not yet know Jesus or don't accept him' and geographic areas 'that need to be re-evangelized. --We cannot remain indifferent,' Cardinal Arinze warned.
'This is why the Pope speaks of a new evangelization. New not in content, but in method, in the impetus, in the spirit with which we proclaim Jesus,' he said. "
"'We Catholics don't provoke anyone, but we mustn't be afraid to confess our faith in public,' the cardinal exhorted.
With 'two-thirds of humanity who do not yet know Jesus or don't accept him' and geographic areas 'that need to be re-evangelized. --We cannot remain indifferent,' Cardinal Arinze warned.
'This is why the Pope speaks of a new evangelization. New not in content, but in method, in the impetus, in the spirit with which we proclaim Jesus,' he said. "
Friday, November 5, 2004
Arafat on Life Support
The story that won't die. Seems like they are trying to keep the illusion of life until they can iron out where he is going to be buried. He wanted Jerusalem, but Israel won't allow that. As a Muslim he would need to be buried within 24 hours of his death.
From CNN.com - Arafat on life support, U.S. officials say - Nov 5, 2004:
"Two U.S. administration officials have said machines were keeping Arafat alive until his family and officials from France, Israel and Egypt could reach a decision about a burial site."
From CNN.com - Arafat on life support, U.S. officials say - Nov 5, 2004:
"Two U.S. administration officials have said machines were keeping Arafat alive until his family and officials from France, Israel and Egypt could reach a decision about a burial site."
Spurrier Says No to Gators but will Probably say Yes to Dolphins
From MSNBC - Spurrier might have bigger Fish to fry:
"The caretakers of the Dolphins are going to make current coach Dave Wannstedt suffer through a dreadful season and earn his pay, then they are going to make him the former head coach. They are going to deposit him in the assistants-who-should-not-have-been-head coaches bin with Ron Zook and try to get right with the fans.
A good start would be to hire Spurrier, who has Florida fans walking toward a ledge today. Six days ago, they were giddy believing Spurrier would rescue them. Today, they hold their heads in their hands.
Spurrier insists the Dolphins have not called, but there has to be a certain telepathy at work here. Bad team needs good coach. Works every time.
And all along we thought Spurrier was going to ride in and rescue the Gators. Wrong water animal. The life preserver could be thrown to the Dolphins.
Maybe."
"The caretakers of the Dolphins are going to make current coach Dave Wannstedt suffer through a dreadful season and earn his pay, then they are going to make him the former head coach. They are going to deposit him in the assistants-who-should-not-have-been-head coaches bin with Ron Zook and try to get right with the fans.
A good start would be to hire Spurrier, who has Florida fans walking toward a ledge today. Six days ago, they were giddy believing Spurrier would rescue them. Today, they hold their heads in their hands.
Spurrier insists the Dolphins have not called, but there has to be a certain telepathy at work here. Bad team needs good coach. Works every time.
And all along we thought Spurrier was going to ride in and rescue the Gators. Wrong water animal. The life preserver could be thrown to the Dolphins.
Maybe."
New Bishop for Alexandria
From the Vatican Information Service:
The Holy Father appointed Msgr. Ronald Paul Herzog of the clergy of the diocese of Biloxi, U.S.A., and pastor of Immaculate Conception Parish in Laurel, U.S.A., as bishop of Alexandria (area 28,780, population 389,970, Catholics 48,050, priests 69, permanent deacons 5, religious 64), U.S.A. The bishop-elect was born in Akron, U.S.A. 1942 and was ordained a priest in 1968.
The Holy Father appointed Msgr. Ronald Paul Herzog of the clergy of the diocese of Biloxi, U.S.A., and pastor of Immaculate Conception Parish in Laurel, U.S.A., as bishop of Alexandria (area 28,780, population 389,970, Catholics 48,050, priests 69, permanent deacons 5, religious 64), U.S.A. The bishop-elect was born in Akron, U.S.A. 1942 and was ordained a priest in 1968.
Thursday, November 4, 2004
Help Requested
I'm looking for Saints who were converted or whose lives were changed from hearing either the Gospel preached or proclaimed at Mass.
St. Antony comes to mind,
But I'm looking for others.
St. Antony comes to mind,
But I'm looking for others.
Reports: Arafat Clinically Dead
From Reports: Arafat Clinically Dead:
"Palestinian President Yasser Arafat was declared clinically dead on Thursday in a French hospital, Israeli television said citing French sources. "
"Palestinian President Yasser Arafat was declared clinically dead on Thursday in a French hospital, Israeli television said citing French sources. "
Arafat Lapses Into a Coma
From ABC News: Yasser Arafat Lapses Into a Coma:
"Yasser Arafat has lapsed into a coma in French hospital, a senior Palestinian official said Thursday, a day after the Palestinian leader was rushed to intensive care following a sharp deterioration in his health"
"Yasser Arafat has lapsed into a coma in French hospital, a senior Palestinian official said Thursday, a day after the Palestinian leader was rushed to intensive care following a sharp deterioration in his health"
Catholic Vote Indistinguishable From the Rest of the Country
51-48 percent. What does this tell us?
But if you are Catholic and go to Mass the numbers are radically different, what does that tell us?
Moral issues were the number one factor in Bush getting re-elected.
From NewsMax.com: Inside Cover Story:
"Exit polls are showing that President Bush has won the Catholic vote 51-48 percent, which was decisive in states that were the key to Bush's victory, especially Ohio and Florida."
But if you are Catholic and go to Mass the numbers are radically different, what does that tell us?
Moral issues were the number one factor in Bush getting re-elected.
From NewsMax.com: Inside Cover Story:
"Exit polls are showing that President Bush has won the Catholic vote 51-48 percent, which was decisive in states that were the key to Bush's victory, especially Ohio and Florida."
Wednesday, November 3, 2004
Having a Baby Changes a Mother's Brain
From NBC 15 :: NEWS:
"Motherhood doesn't just change your life. It also changes your brain.
New research, reported last month at a neuroscience meeting in San Diego, suggests that having babies permanently alters brain function.
If you're a rat, it makes you better at finding and killing dinner quickly. If you're a human, it helps you distinguish between your baby's cry and that of other children.
In either case, it's something fathers just don't get. Only mothers undergo these changes.
'Clearly these experiences are changing the female brain, but in a way that's natural,' said Craig Kinsley, a neuroscientist at the University of Richmond in Virginia. "
"Motherhood doesn't just change your life. It also changes your brain.
New research, reported last month at a neuroscience meeting in San Diego, suggests that having babies permanently alters brain function.
If you're a rat, it makes you better at finding and killing dinner quickly. If you're a human, it helps you distinguish between your baby's cry and that of other children.
In either case, it's something fathers just don't get. Only mothers undergo these changes.
'Clearly these experiences are changing the female brain, but in a way that's natural,' said Craig Kinsley, a neuroscientist at the University of Richmond in Virginia. "
Winner Declared in Presidential Election
of Afghanistan...
From Karzai Declared the Winner of Afghan Presidential Election After Fraud Ruled Minor - from TBO.com
Hamid Karzai was declared the winner of Afghanistan's landmark presidential election Wednesday, after investigators concluded that a string of irregularities were too minor to overturn his triumph.
The country's joint U.N.-Afghan electoral board confirmed that the American-backed incumbent had clinched a five-year term as the country's first popularly chosen leader.
From Karzai Declared the Winner of Afghan Presidential Election After Fraud Ruled Minor - from TBO.com
Hamid Karzai was declared the winner of Afghanistan's landmark presidential election Wednesday, after investigators concluded that a string of irregularities were too minor to overturn his triumph.
The country's joint U.N.-Afghan electoral board confirmed that the American-backed incumbent had clinched a five-year term as the country's first popularly chosen leader.
California Backs Stem-Cell Research
From ABC News: California Backs Stem-Cell Research:
"Californians voted Tuesday to spend $3 billion on stem cell research, putting the state on the cutting edge of a field questioned by conservatives and the Bush administration. Arizonans approved a crackdown on illegal immigrants, adopting a measure that would deter them from voting or obtaining certain government services. "
"Californians voted Tuesday to spend $3 billion on stem cell research, putting the state on the cutting edge of a field questioned by conservatives and the Bush administration. Arizonans approved a crackdown on illegal immigrants, adopting a measure that would deter them from voting or obtaining certain government services. "
Cardinal Joos Dies
From Belgium-Cardinal-Dies:
"Gustaaf Cardinal Joos of Belgium, who derided lesbians and gays as 'sexual perverts,' died Tuesday at age 81, local church officials said.
Joos died at his parish home. He fell ill after saying mass Tuesday morning at a church in Landskouter, 44 kilometres northwest of Brussels, which he led since 1970, the Ghent bishopric said. It did not release information on the cause of death.
Joos, who was appointed cardinal last year, studied with Pope John Paul II before the latter became pontiff in Rome. "
"Gustaaf Cardinal Joos of Belgium, who derided lesbians and gays as 'sexual perverts,' died Tuesday at age 81, local church officials said.
Joos died at his parish home. He fell ill after saying mass Tuesday morning at a church in Landskouter, 44 kilometres northwest of Brussels, which he led since 1970, the Ghent bishopric said. It did not release information on the cause of death.
Joos, who was appointed cardinal last year, studied with Pope John Paul II before the latter became pontiff in Rome. "
Tuesday, November 2, 2004
It's a Sin Not to Do It
New book...
From Telegraph | News | Vatican sex guide urges Catholics to do 'it' more often:
"The controversial book, It's A Sin Not To Do It, written by two theologians, promises the reader answers to "everything you wanted to know about sex but the Church (almost) never dared to tell you".
In their attempt to galvanise the faithful, Roberto Beretta and Elisabetta Broli, who write regularly for the Italian Bishops' magazine, Avvenire, have written one of the raciest works ever to deal with the Church and sex....
...The pages of It's A Sin Not To Do It, however, feature a frank interview with Cardinal Ersilio Tonini in which he emphasises that "the Church is not an enemy of the flesh". He argues that Vatican doctrine has always defended the "nobility of sexuality", which is regarded by the Church as a "treasure" of humanity.
Another chapter likely to raise eyebrows unearths theological justification for post-coital masturbation for women who fail to achieve orgasm during intercourse.
Beretta told The Telegraph: "The Church is not against sex. Something needed to be done about the cliches and stereotypes. The Church is not only about forbidding the use of contraception and warning against the sins of the flesh.
From Telegraph | News | Vatican sex guide urges Catholics to do 'it' more often:
"The controversial book, It's A Sin Not To Do It, written by two theologians, promises the reader answers to "everything you wanted to know about sex but the Church (almost) never dared to tell you".
In their attempt to galvanise the faithful, Roberto Beretta and Elisabetta Broli, who write regularly for the Italian Bishops' magazine, Avvenire, have written one of the raciest works ever to deal with the Church and sex....
...The pages of It's A Sin Not To Do It, however, feature a frank interview with Cardinal Ersilio Tonini in which he emphasises that "the Church is not an enemy of the flesh". He argues that Vatican doctrine has always defended the "nobility of sexuality", which is regarded by the Church as a "treasure" of humanity.
Another chapter likely to raise eyebrows unearths theological justification for post-coital masturbation for women who fail to achieve orgasm during intercourse.
Beretta told The Telegraph: "The Church is not against sex. Something needed to be done about the cliches and stereotypes. The Church is not only about forbidding the use of contraception and warning against the sins of the flesh.
Bush Wins...First Results are In
From Yahoo! News - N.H. Hamlets Cast First Election Day Votes:
"The first Tuesday votes came from the northern New Hampshire community of Hart's Location, where 16 voters chose Bush, 14 went with Kerry and one chose Nader. Minutes later, the 26 registered voters in Dixville Notch, about 50 miles to the north, split 19 for Bush and 7 for Kerry."
"The first Tuesday votes came from the northern New Hampshire community of Hart's Location, where 16 voters chose Bush, 14 went with Kerry and one chose Nader. Minutes later, the 26 registered voters in Dixville Notch, about 50 miles to the north, split 19 for Bush and 7 for Kerry."
Monday, November 1, 2004
Feast of All Saints
From Pope John Paul II:
"Let us all rejoice in the Lord on this solemnity of All Saints' Day. The Eucharistic celebration honouring All the Saints begins today with this invitation to rejoice. A Church pilgrim on this earth raises her gaze to Heaven and joins the chorus of those whom God has brought into His Glory. This is the communion of Saints.
Under the bright lights of this wonderful mystery the annual commemoration of all the faithful departed will take place tomorrow. The liturgy invites us to broaden our hearts and pray for all of them, especially for the souls who need Divine Mercy the most.
I raise a special prayer to God for all the victims of terrorism. I feel spiritually close to their families. As I ask the Lord to make their pain more bearable, I invoke his name that peace may come to the world.
May Mary, Queen of All Saints, help us faithfully follow Christ so that we may reach the Glory of Heaven."
"Let us all rejoice in the Lord on this solemnity of All Saints' Day. The Eucharistic celebration honouring All the Saints begins today with this invitation to rejoice. A Church pilgrim on this earth raises her gaze to Heaven and joins the chorus of those whom God has brought into His Glory. This is the communion of Saints.
Under the bright lights of this wonderful mystery the annual commemoration of all the faithful departed will take place tomorrow. The liturgy invites us to broaden our hearts and pray for all of them, especially for the souls who need Divine Mercy the most.
I raise a special prayer to God for all the victims of terrorism. I feel spiritually close to their families. As I ask the Lord to make their pain more bearable, I invoke his name that peace may come to the world.
May Mary, Queen of All Saints, help us faithfully follow Christ so that we may reach the Glory of Heaven."
From Father Benedict Groeschel
From Father Benedict:
"It is a difficult time for the Church, with scandals, religiously inadequate Catholic higher education in many places, and the decline in vocations. It is also a beautiful time. During my first program last Sunday, with the support of prayer from several communities of cloistered nuns around the country, I was able to speak to an audience of perhaps a million people in the United Sates alone, as well an unknown number in other countries. People from all over the U.S. phoned in with intelligent, well-thought-out questions.
While this is a time of battle and conflict, it is also a time to be hopeful. We must never enter a conflict with a hangdog, depressed attitude. That is the loser's way. "If the trumpeter sounds an uncertain note, who will follow?" is an old saying. Now is a time for the sounding of sure and certain notes. Whatever happens in the immediate future, we must be absolutely convinced that the cause of God will triumph. It would be spiritually helpful to many people at this point to read the first psalm, which has much to say about the current political situation. Read it, and you will know what to do as you go into the voting booth--no matter what the outcome. "
Here is Psalm 1:
"It is a difficult time for the Church, with scandals, religiously inadequate Catholic higher education in many places, and the decline in vocations. It is also a beautiful time. During my first program last Sunday, with the support of prayer from several communities of cloistered nuns around the country, I was able to speak to an audience of perhaps a million people in the United Sates alone, as well an unknown number in other countries. People from all over the U.S. phoned in with intelligent, well-thought-out questions.
While this is a time of battle and conflict, it is also a time to be hopeful. We must never enter a conflict with a hangdog, depressed attitude. That is the loser's way. "If the trumpeter sounds an uncertain note, who will follow?" is an old saying. Now is a time for the sounding of sure and certain notes. Whatever happens in the immediate future, we must be absolutely convinced that the cause of God will triumph. It would be spiritually helpful to many people at this point to read the first psalm, which has much to say about the current political situation. Read it, and you will know what to do as you go into the voting booth--no matter what the outcome. "
Here is Psalm 1:
Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked,
nor stands in the way of sinners,
nor sits in the seat of scoffers;
but his delight is in the law of the LORD,
and on his law he meditates day and night.
He is like a tree planted by streams of water,
that yields its fruit in its season,
and its leaf does not wither.
In all that he does,
he prospers.
The wicked are not so,
but are like chaff which the wind drives away.
Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment,
nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous;
for the LORD knows the way of the righteous,
but the way of the wicked will perish.
Light a Candle, Remember Your Dead on All Souls
Society of the Divine Word, USA Western Province - All Souls offers a way for all of you procrastinators to remember your dead for all souls...
Friday, October 29, 2004
The Messengers Of Hope
I'm guessing this is sponsored by a Republican group. I was sent the "What king of man?" link which you can view by going to this siteThe Messengers Of Hope. The presentation is very effective...
Vatican Intervenes with Parish In Minneapolis
Amy has mentioned this parish before that regularly has "guest speakers" preaching at Sunday Mass...St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, Mpls., MN., USA
Thursday, October 28, 2004
John Kerry was an altar boy -- So was Adolf Hitler
From John Kerry was an altar boy -- so was Adolf Hitler:
"Presidential candidate, Senator John Kerry is urgently pressing uncatechised or 'dumbed down' Catholic voters to believe he is a faithful Catholic that best represents the Church's defined teachings. Nothing could be farther from the truth.
He woos the ignorant Catholics, laity, and clergy alike, by reminding them he was an altar boy. Adolf Hitler, a/k/a Adolf Schicklegruber, was also a Catholic altar boy, so this snippet of past religiosity tells us nothing of the man today -- except that Kerry certainly has come a long way from being an altar boy.
Furthermore, this 'Catholic' demagogue promises in the next sound bite that if elected he will assure that abortion remains legal in the U.S. for another generation."
"Presidential candidate, Senator John Kerry is urgently pressing uncatechised or 'dumbed down' Catholic voters to believe he is a faithful Catholic that best represents the Church's defined teachings. Nothing could be farther from the truth.
He woos the ignorant Catholics, laity, and clergy alike, by reminding them he was an altar boy. Adolf Hitler, a/k/a Adolf Schicklegruber, was also a Catholic altar boy, so this snippet of past religiosity tells us nothing of the man today -- except that Kerry certainly has come a long way from being an altar boy.
Furthermore, this 'Catholic' demagogue promises in the next sound bite that if elected he will assure that abortion remains legal in the U.S. for another generation."
Statue of Mary in Indiana Weeps
From Northwest Indiana News: nwitimes.com:
"'The statue was commissioned by a priest in the Diocese of Chicago, and when he retired he had a chapel in his home and the statue was there. He had invited a group of priest friends to dinner and after dinner they decided they would go say a prayer in the chapel,' she said.
'All of a sudden, they noticed the tears coming down from the eye of the Blessed Mother,' she said.
Badyniak said the statue has twice shed tears.
The Rev. Michael Weidman, who celebrated the evening's prayer service and benediction, said so many are drawn to the statue of the Virgin.
'Especially at a time like this, when there's so many things to pray for with the war in Iraq and elections, there's so many things that they want to ask the Blessed Mother to intercede on their behalf and offer her prayers along with ours,' Weidman said."
"'The statue was commissioned by a priest in the Diocese of Chicago, and when he retired he had a chapel in his home and the statue was there. He had invited a group of priest friends to dinner and after dinner they decided they would go say a prayer in the chapel,' she said.
'All of a sudden, they noticed the tears coming down from the eye of the Blessed Mother,' she said.
Badyniak said the statue has twice shed tears.
The Rev. Michael Weidman, who celebrated the evening's prayer service and benediction, said so many are drawn to the statue of the Virgin.
'Especially at a time like this, when there's so many things to pray for with the war in Iraq and elections, there's so many things that they want to ask the Blessed Mother to intercede on their behalf and offer her prayers along with ours,' Weidman said."
Six More Days, Turns into 666 for Kerry
From WorldNetDaily: Kerry tied to '666'?:
"During his presidential campaign in Iowa today, Democrat John Kerry was surrounded by a sea of handheld signs displaying the number six on them.
That caught the attention of WND reader Michael of Kaufman, Texas, who happened to record this evening broadcast of ABC's 'World News Tonight.'
'You can imagine my surprise, when they broadcast a video of John Kerry finishing a speech in Iowa to the acclaim of hundreds of people waving signs with the number six on them,' he said. 'The imagery of 666 appearing everywhere was too much to be ignored. I had to rewind my TIVO and shoot these photos of the TV screen.' "
"During his presidential campaign in Iowa today, Democrat John Kerry was surrounded by a sea of handheld signs displaying the number six on them.
That caught the attention of WND reader Michael of Kaufman, Texas, who happened to record this evening broadcast of ABC's 'World News Tonight.'
'You can imagine my surprise, when they broadcast a video of John Kerry finishing a speech in Iowa to the acclaim of hundreds of people waving signs with the number six on them,' he said. 'The imagery of 666 appearing everywhere was too much to be ignored. I had to rewind my TIVO and shoot these photos of the TV screen.' "
I.R.S. Baloney....
Has anyone ever taken notice how these rules don't seem to apply to Churches that support Democrats? It seems of late that some Southern predominantly African-American Churches are free to host the most blatant political rallies...why is this?
From WorldNetDaily: IRS: Churches can't pray for Bush victory:
"In a letter of clarification requested by a traveling minister, the Internal Revenue Service has declared people gathered in tax-exempt churches can't pray for President Bush to win the election on Tuesday.
The ruling comes in response to a request by the Christian Defense Coalition, which is in the midst of a 15-day prayer tour through Ohio and Pennsylvania. The Rev. Patrick J. Mahoney, director of the organization, had planned to lead in prayer for a Bush victory during evening services in each town. Though he had hoped to hold the services in churches, Mahoney says he has used American Legion halls, hotels and other venues pending a clarification from the IRS. "
From WorldNetDaily: IRS: Churches can't pray for Bush victory:
"In a letter of clarification requested by a traveling minister, the Internal Revenue Service has declared people gathered in tax-exempt churches can't pray for President Bush to win the election on Tuesday.
The ruling comes in response to a request by the Christian Defense Coalition, which is in the midst of a 15-day prayer tour through Ohio and Pennsylvania. The Rev. Patrick J. Mahoney, director of the organization, had planned to lead in prayer for a Bush victory during evening services in each town. Though he had hoped to hold the services in churches, Mahoney says he has used American Legion halls, hotels and other venues pending a clarification from the IRS. "
Now Only the Cubs Remain Cursed!
Congratulations to the Boston Red Sox, World Champions! To all my native New Englanders, take pause and celebrate!
MSNBC - STOP CURSING ? RED SOX ARE CHAMPS
MSNBC - STOP CURSING ? RED SOX ARE CHAMPS
Bring Back the Fun to Florida Football
Even those who hate him, miss him.
From ESPN.com - NCF - Sources: Spurrier tells Florida he wants to talk:
"Steve Spurrier has told University of Florida officials that he is interested in discussing a possible return to coach the Gators, sources told ESPN's Chris Mortensen on Wednesday night.
In addition, Florida officials have now given Spurrier two weeks to determine if he wants the job, although no formal offer has been given and no details such as salary have been discussed, Mortensen reports.
Still, these are the most significant indications yet that the job is essentially Spurrier's if he wants it."
From ESPN.com - NCF - Sources: Spurrier tells Florida he wants to talk:
"Steve Spurrier has told University of Florida officials that he is interested in discussing a possible return to coach the Gators, sources told ESPN's Chris Mortensen on Wednesday night.
In addition, Florida officials have now given Spurrier two weeks to determine if he wants the job, although no formal offer has been given and no details such as salary have been discussed, Mortensen reports.
Still, these are the most significant indications yet that the job is essentially Spurrier's if he wants it."
Wednesday, October 27, 2004
Russ Hittinger Weighs In
From Mirror of Justice: Russ Hittinger Weighs In:
"Let's begin with an example that I don't think is inflammatory. The peoples of sub-Saharan Africa are victims of plague, poverty, genocide,
and anarchy. We know that these things would never be tolerated in developed countries; in fact, we would not tolerate them across our
borders. We also know that remedying the plight of these peoples is not very high on the policy list of the affluent democracies. Most men
and women of honest conscience wish that it were not the case. But mobilizing domestic and international politics is not so easy. Even
supposing good will on everyone's part, the practical means for remedying the situation are debatable, and the execution of policy will
be difficult. For one thing, there are other pressing issues domestically and internationally. At the end of the day, however, everyone knows that the Africans will come out at the bottom of the agenda."
"Let's begin with an example that I don't think is inflammatory. The peoples of sub-Saharan Africa are victims of plague, poverty, genocide,
and anarchy. We know that these things would never be tolerated in developed countries; in fact, we would not tolerate them across our
borders. We also know that remedying the plight of these peoples is not very high on the policy list of the affluent democracies. Most men
and women of honest conscience wish that it were not the case. But mobilizing domestic and international politics is not so easy. Even
supposing good will on everyone's part, the practical means for remedying the situation are debatable, and the execution of policy will
be difficult. For one thing, there are other pressing issues domestically and internationally. At the end of the day, however, everyone knows that the Africans will come out at the bottom of the agenda."
Tuesday, October 26, 2004
Most Vulnerable
I want to state rather publicly that I am not happy with the prospect of choosing between either Bush or Kerry. I disagreed with Bush on the Iraq war and took a lot of heat from it on this blog for siding Pope John Paul against the President.
But having said that what Kerry does and continues to do drives me nuts. Either you believe it or you don't and if you believe that abortion is ending an innocent life then it is exactly the unborn child who is the most vulnerable member of society and needs the voice of the powerful to stand up for them...something that Kerry seems incapable of seeing and I must conclude that he does not believe as he says he does. There is nothing religious about when life begins...it is a scientific fact, observable in ways that were not possible even fifty years ago. This isn't in question, what is in question is whether any human is allowed to terminate the life of another...this indeed is a judgment that must be made by the government that controls what is acceptable behavior in our society. Kerry lives in a democracy, no one has ever elected him to be a totalitarian leader. His vote has never been anymore than "his vote" but to hear him "his vote" is some other mythical beings vote.
I'll find it very hard to vote for anyone in this election.
From News - Catholic News Agency:
"In a campaign speech given in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, on Sunday, Sen. John Kerry, hoping to win undecided Catholic voters, spoke of his faith and the way it influences his decisions, and of his relationship to the Church, saying 'I love my church. I respect the bishops, but I respectfully disagree.'
"I know there are some bishops who have suggested that as a public official I must cast votes or take positions on issues like a woman's right to choose or stem cell research that carry out the tenets of the Roman Catholic Church," he said.
'My task, as I see it," said Sen. Kerry, "is not to write every doctrine into law. That is not possible or right in a pluralistic society," he said. "But my faith does give me values to live by and to apply to the decisions that I make,' he added.
Quoting the Gospels, Kerry emphasized his concern for social issues, saying that the concern for the most vulnerable members of society "is a moral obligation that is at the heart of all -- all -- of our religious traditions.' "
But having said that what Kerry does and continues to do drives me nuts. Either you believe it or you don't and if you believe that abortion is ending an innocent life then it is exactly the unborn child who is the most vulnerable member of society and needs the voice of the powerful to stand up for them...something that Kerry seems incapable of seeing and I must conclude that he does not believe as he says he does. There is nothing religious about when life begins...it is a scientific fact, observable in ways that were not possible even fifty years ago. This isn't in question, what is in question is whether any human is allowed to terminate the life of another...this indeed is a judgment that must be made by the government that controls what is acceptable behavior in our society. Kerry lives in a democracy, no one has ever elected him to be a totalitarian leader. His vote has never been anymore than "his vote" but to hear him "his vote" is some other mythical beings vote.
I'll find it very hard to vote for anyone in this election.
From News - Catholic News Agency:
"In a campaign speech given in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, on Sunday, Sen. John Kerry, hoping to win undecided Catholic voters, spoke of his faith and the way it influences his decisions, and of his relationship to the Church, saying 'I love my church. I respect the bishops, but I respectfully disagree.'
"I know there are some bishops who have suggested that as a public official I must cast votes or take positions on issues like a woman's right to choose or stem cell research that carry out the tenets of the Roman Catholic Church," he said.
'My task, as I see it," said Sen. Kerry, "is not to write every doctrine into law. That is not possible or right in a pluralistic society," he said. "But my faith does give me values to live by and to apply to the decisions that I make,' he added.
Quoting the Gospels, Kerry emphasized his concern for social issues, saying that the concern for the most vulnerable members of society "is a moral obligation that is at the heart of all -- all -- of our religious traditions.' "
Monday, October 25, 2004
Sounds Like He Might Be Coming Back
From OrlandoSentinel.com: Gators:
"After the word got around, former UF coach Steve Spurrier spoke with the Orlando Sentinel from the Heathrow Country Club golf course in Seminole County, where he is golfing today.
'I'll cross that bridge if it comes to that,' Spurrier said. 'One thing I've tried to do all this year is not be lingering around acting like I'm waiting for another guy's job. I don't believe that's the right way to do it. But now that he (Zook) doesn't have a job, I guess there will be some discussions. We'll see what happens.'"
"After the word got around, former UF coach Steve Spurrier spoke with the Orlando Sentinel from the Heathrow Country Club golf course in Seminole County, where he is golfing today.
'I'll cross that bridge if it comes to that,' Spurrier said. 'One thing I've tried to do all this year is not be lingering around acting like I'm waiting for another guy's job. I don't believe that's the right way to do it. But now that he (Zook) doesn't have a job, I guess there will be some discussions. We'll see what happens.'"
Sounds Like He Might Be Coming Back
From OrlandoSentinel.com: Gators:
"After the word got around, former UF coach Steve Spurrier spoke with the Orlando Sentinel from the Heathrow Country Club golf course in Seminole County, where he is golfing today.
'I'll cross that bridge if it comes to that,' Spurrier said. 'One thing I've tried to do all this year is not be lingering around acting like I'm waiting for another guy's job. I don't believe that's the right way to do it. But now that he (Zook) doesn't have a job, I guess there will be some discussions. We'll see what happens.'"
"After the word got around, former UF coach Steve Spurrier spoke with the Orlando Sentinel from the Heathrow Country Club golf course in Seminole County, where he is golfing today.
'I'll cross that bridge if it comes to that,' Spurrier said. 'One thing I've tried to do all this year is not be lingering around acting like I'm waiting for another guy's job. I don't believe that's the right way to do it. But now that he (Zook) doesn't have a job, I guess there will be some discussions. We'll see what happens.'"
Goodbye!
From Gators fire football coach Zook, his staff: South Florida Sun-Sentinel:
"Florida football coach Ron Zook and his staff have been fired, and a meeting has been scheduled with the players for 2:30 p.m. today to announce the news, wide receiver Andre Caldwell told the Orlando Sentinel Monday morning.
A press conference has been scheduled for later this afternoon, but no time or place has been announced by the university."
"Florida football coach Ron Zook and his staff have been fired, and a meeting has been scheduled with the players for 2:30 p.m. today to announce the news, wide receiver Andre Caldwell told the Orlando Sentinel Monday morning.
A press conference has been scheduled for later this afternoon, but no time or place has been announced by the university."
Zook Fired
From OrlandoSentinel.com: Gators:
"Florida coach Ron Zook has been fired, and a meeting has been scheduled with the players for 2:30 p.m. to announce the news, wide receiver Andre Caldwell told the Orlando Sentinel.
A press conference has been scheduled for later this afternoon, but no time or place has been announced.
'I'm shocked,' Caldwell said. 'I don't know what to think about it. I had a feeling, but I didn't think it was really going to happen.'
Zook will finish out the rest of the season, which includes four games against Georgia, Vanderbilt, South Carolina and Florida State.
'We've just got to play for ourselves now,' Caldwell said. 'We've got to give it all we've got. It's time to just make ourselves better players.'"
"Florida coach Ron Zook has been fired, and a meeting has been scheduled with the players for 2:30 p.m. to announce the news, wide receiver Andre Caldwell told the Orlando Sentinel.
A press conference has been scheduled for later this afternoon, but no time or place has been announced.
'I'm shocked,' Caldwell said. 'I don't know what to think about it. I had a feeling, but I didn't think it was really going to happen.'
Zook will finish out the rest of the season, which includes four games against Georgia, Vanderbilt, South Carolina and Florida State.
'We've just got to play for ourselves now,' Caldwell said. 'We've got to give it all we've got. It's time to just make ourselves better players.'"
More on Cardinal Hickey from Peter Robinson
From Peter Robinson on Cardinal Hickey on National Review Online:
"James Cardinal Hickey, who stepped down as archbishop of Washington in 2000, died Sunday morning at 84. Seldom eloquent, too self-effacing to convey a sense of gravitas or presence, Cardinal Hickey possessed a single attribute that made him a critical figure all the same: holiness. "
"James Cardinal Hickey, who stepped down as archbishop of Washington in 2000, died Sunday morning at 84. Seldom eloquent, too self-effacing to convey a sense of gravitas or presence, Cardinal Hickey possessed a single attribute that made him a critical figure all the same: holiness. "
Sunday, October 24, 2004
Cardinal Hickey Dies (RIP)
From Cardinal James Hickey Dies at 84 (washingtonpost.com):
"Cardinal James Aloysius Hickey, 84, a champion of orthodoxy in church dogma and a compassionate shepherd of the area's half million Roman Catholics while head of the Washington Archdiocese for 20 years, died this morning at a nursing home in Washington.
His health had been in decline for the past year."
"Cardinal James Aloysius Hickey, 84, a champion of orthodoxy in church dogma and a compassionate shepherd of the area's half million Roman Catholics while head of the Washington Archdiocese for 20 years, died this morning at a nursing home in Washington.
His health had been in decline for the past year."
Saturday, October 23, 2004
Liberal Priests Join Forces in Milwaukee
Funny they have an Orthodox (as in Eastern) priest pictured on their web site. I feel sorry for Archbishop Dolan who is a good and holy bishop, he doesn't deserve this but I guess it is predictable. The problem it is very clear to me with the Catholic Church in the United States is that many of the pastors who should be leading us in worship are following someone other than Christ and the Church he founded.
Friday, October 22, 2004
John Allen Receives a Mild Rebuke for His Speculation on Who the Vatican Supports for US President
From Cardinal Martino...
As reported in Allen's Word for Rome in NCR:
As reported in Allen's Word for Rome in NCR:
Your e-mail message, received here on 15 October, left me as confused as
the original article, published on 8 October. You wrote that your "analysis was
based on wide conversations with people at all levels, along with a reading of
the public record." And I have to wonder, "To whom did you speak, and what did
you glean from that 'public record?"
While I have made statements against the war in Iraq it would be
inappropriate for me, any member of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace
or any other official of the curia to make statements in favor or against any
particular political candidate.
I believe that your article did grave damage to the understanding of
your readers. They have been led to believe that certain offices and officials
within the Roman Curia have actually committed themselves to support one
candidate over the other. While I am certain that many have personal opinions
about particular candidates, these could never be an official reflection of or
interpreted as the position of all those who work within a certain congregation,
pontifical council or the Secretariat of State nor that of the offices
themselves.
To say that a particular office was more supportive of President Bush
or Senator Kerry is a sort of accusation that those working within an office
have taken sides in the partisan politics of the democratic process. Nothing
could be further from the truth, at least as far as this pontifical council is
concerned. At the same time, this pontifical council cannot and will not remain
silent in the face of positions taken or policies espoused by any politician or
political candidate, especially when those issues touch upon subjects that fall
within the competencies and responsibilities of the Council for Justice and
Peace.
As far as public statements are concerned, some issues may indeed
outweigh others. However, it must go without saying that the Pontifical Council
for Justice and Peace will never shrink from its responsibility to preach the
message of the Gospel or call attention to those situations in the world where
the tenants of justice and peace are violated.
A Site Devoted to A Bushism
Plays a snipet of Bush saying "I hear there's rumors on the Internets."
One of the most linked web sites on this day.
One of the most linked web sites on this day.
Another Setback for Terri Schiavo
From Times Against Humanity O tempora, o mores!:
"Reuters reports today that the Florida Supreme Court has refused to reconsider its 7-0 ruling overturning Terri's Law, a state statute supported by Gov. Jeb Bush that put a halt to the forced fatal starvation of Terri Schindler Schiavo by her unfaithful husband.
In a 4-3 opinion, the court rejected a request by Bush's attorneys to rehear the case. The court ruled unanimously last month against the hastily crafted law that prevented Michael Schiavo from withholding food and water from his wife, Terri. She has been on life support since suffering a heart attack in 1990.
It is not known what action Gov. Bush will take next to continue to protect Terri's life from Florida's killer courts. According to Bush spokeswoman Jill Bratina, 'Our lawyers are looking at the legal options before us. We will be looking to make a decision on our next step very soon,' possibly today."
"Reuters reports today that the Florida Supreme Court has refused to reconsider its 7-0 ruling overturning Terri's Law, a state statute supported by Gov. Jeb Bush that put a halt to the forced fatal starvation of Terri Schindler Schiavo by her unfaithful husband.
In a 4-3 opinion, the court rejected a request by Bush's attorneys to rehear the case. The court ruled unanimously last month against the hastily crafted law that prevented Michael Schiavo from withholding food and water from his wife, Terri. She has been on life support since suffering a heart attack in 1990.
It is not known what action Gov. Bush will take next to continue to protect Terri's life from Florida's killer courts. According to Bush spokeswoman Jill Bratina, 'Our lawyers are looking at the legal options before us. We will be looking to make a decision on our next step very soon,' possibly today."
Faith and Patriotism
Archbishop Chaput in the The New York Times > Opinion > Op-Ed Contributor: Faith and Patriotism:
"The theologian Karl Barth once said, 'To clasp the hands in prayer is the beginning of an uprising against the disorder of the world.'
That saying comes to mind as the election approaches and I hear more lectures about how Roman Catholics must not 'impose their beliefs on society' or warnings about the need for 'the separation of church and state.' These are two of the emptiest slogans in current American politics, intended to discourage serious debate. No one in mainstream American politics wants a theocracy. Nor does anyone doubt the importance of morality in public life. Therefore, we should recognize these slogans for what they are: frequently dishonest and ultimately dangerous sound bites.
Lawmaking inevitably involves some group imposing its beliefs on the rest of us. That's the nature of the democratic process. If we say that we 'ought' to do something, we are making a moral judgment. When our legislators turn that judgment into law, somebody's ought becomes a 'must' for the whole of society. This is not inherently dangerous; it's how pluralism works.
Democracy depends on people of conviction expressing their views, confidently and without embarrassment. This give-and-take is an American tradition, and religious believers play a vital role in it. We don't serve our country - in fact we weaken it intellectually - if we downplay our principles or fail to speak forcefully out of some misguided sense of good manners.
People who support permissive abortion laws have no qualms about imposing their views on society. Often working against popular opinion, they have tried to block any effort to change permissive abortion laws since the Supreme Court's Roe v. Wade decision in 1973. That's fair. That's their right. But why should the rules of engagement be different for citizens who oppose those laws?
"
"The theologian Karl Barth once said, 'To clasp the hands in prayer is the beginning of an uprising against the disorder of the world.'
That saying comes to mind as the election approaches and I hear more lectures about how Roman Catholics must not 'impose their beliefs on society' or warnings about the need for 'the separation of church and state.' These are two of the emptiest slogans in current American politics, intended to discourage serious debate. No one in mainstream American politics wants a theocracy. Nor does anyone doubt the importance of morality in public life. Therefore, we should recognize these slogans for what they are: frequently dishonest and ultimately dangerous sound bites.
Lawmaking inevitably involves some group imposing its beliefs on the rest of us. That's the nature of the democratic process. If we say that we 'ought' to do something, we are making a moral judgment. When our legislators turn that judgment into law, somebody's ought becomes a 'must' for the whole of society. This is not inherently dangerous; it's how pluralism works.
Democracy depends on people of conviction expressing their views, confidently and without embarrassment. This give-and-take is an American tradition, and religious believers play a vital role in it. We don't serve our country - in fact we weaken it intellectually - if we downplay our principles or fail to speak forcefully out of some misguided sense of good manners.
People who support permissive abortion laws have no qualms about imposing their views on society. Often working against popular opinion, they have tried to block any effort to change permissive abortion laws since the Supreme Court's Roe v. Wade decision in 1973. That's fair. That's their right. But why should the rules of engagement be different for citizens who oppose those laws?
"
Elderly Alabama Monk Indicted in 1970 Rape
From al.com: NewsFlash - Elderly Alabama monk indicted in 1970 sexual assault:
Grand jurors indicted an 82-year-old monk in an alleged rape in 1970 that a would-be nun said occurred at St. Bernard's Abbey but wasn't reported for decades.
Benedictine monk Ignatius Kane was arrested Oct. 10 on a charge of first-degree rape.
Defense lawyer Rusty Turner said Kane is back at the abbey after being released from jail on $30,000 bond.
"We'll mount a vigorous defense and we believe he'll be exonerated," said Turner.
Kane had polio as a child and has been confined by health problems, including a stroke. Formerly the abbey librarian, Kane is now mostly bedridden.
Anne McInnis, 55, of Memphis, Tenn., said Kane raped her in the abbey library in 1970 at a retreat to consider whether she should become a nun. She told her story publicly in The Birmingham News last year but said she did not report the assault to anyone in 1970.
Grand jurors indicted an 82-year-old monk in an alleged rape in 1970 that a would-be nun said occurred at St. Bernard's Abbey but wasn't reported for decades.
Benedictine monk Ignatius Kane was arrested Oct. 10 on a charge of first-degree rape.
Defense lawyer Rusty Turner said Kane is back at the abbey after being released from jail on $30,000 bond.
"We'll mount a vigorous defense and we believe he'll be exonerated," said Turner.
Kane had polio as a child and has been confined by health problems, including a stroke. Formerly the abbey librarian, Kane is now mostly bedridden.
Anne McInnis, 55, of Memphis, Tenn., said Kane raped her in the abbey library in 1970 at a retreat to consider whether she should become a nun. She told her story publicly in The Birmingham News last year but said she did not report the assault to anyone in 1970.
Thursday, October 21, 2004
Message for the 20th World Youth Day
From Message for the 20th World Youth Day:
"The Magi found Jesus at 'Beth-lehem' which means 'house of bread'. In the humble stable in Bethlehem on some straw lay the 'grain of wheat' who, by dying, would bring forth 'much fruit' (cf Jn 12:24). When speaking of Himself and His saving mission in the course of His public life, Jesus would later use the image of bread. He would say 'I am the bread of life', 'I am the bread which came down from heaven', 'the bread that I shall give for the life of the world is my flesh'. (Jn 6: 35.41.51)."
"The Magi found Jesus at 'Beth-lehem' which means 'house of bread'. In the humble stable in Bethlehem on some straw lay the 'grain of wheat' who, by dying, would bring forth 'much fruit' (cf Jn 12:24). When speaking of Himself and His saving mission in the course of His public life, Jesus would later use the image of bread. He would say 'I am the bread of life', 'I am the bread which came down from heaven', 'the bread that I shall give for the life of the world is my flesh'. (Jn 6: 35.41.51)."
The Difference Between Pat Robertson and the Pope
One tells Bush not to go to war, the other tells him to prepare the American people for the loss of more American lives.
From CNN.com - No casualties? White House disputes Robertson comment - Oct 20, 2004:
"A White House spokesman denied Wednesday that President Bush told Christian Coalition founder Pat Robertson that he did not expect casualties from the invasion of Iraq.
'The president never made such a comment,' White House press secretary Scott McClellan said.
Senior Bush campaign adviser Karen Hughes, a longtime confidant of the president, said she was 'certain' Bush would not have said anything like that to Robertson.
'Perhaps he misunderstood, but I've never heard the president say any such thing,' Hughes said on CNN's 'Inside Politics.'"
From CNN.com - No casualties? White House disputes Robertson comment - Oct 20, 2004:
"A White House spokesman denied Wednesday that President Bush told Christian Coalition founder Pat Robertson that he did not expect casualties from the invasion of Iraq.
'The president never made such a comment,' White House press secretary Scott McClellan said.
Senior Bush campaign adviser Karen Hughes, a longtime confidant of the president, said she was 'certain' Bush would not have said anything like that to Robertson.
'Perhaps he misunderstood, but I've never heard the president say any such thing,' Hughes said on CNN's 'Inside Politics.'"
New Bishop for Salina
From the Vatican Information Service:
Appointed Fr. Paul S. Coakley of the clergy of Wichita, U.S.A., and vice chancellor and administrator of the Church of the Magdalen, as bishop of Salina (area 69,087, population 325,112, Catholics 48,510, priests 80, religious 219), U.S.A. The bishop-elect was born 1955 in Norfolk, U.S.A. and was ordained a priest in 1983. He succeeds Bishop George K. Fitzsimons whose resignation the Pope accepted upon having reached the age limit.
Appointed Fr. Paul S. Coakley of the clergy of Wichita, U.S.A., and vice chancellor and administrator of the Church of the Magdalen, as bishop of Salina (area 69,087, population 325,112, Catholics 48,510, priests 80, religious 219), U.S.A. The bishop-elect was born 1955 in Norfolk, U.S.A. and was ordained a priest in 1983. He succeeds Bishop George K. Fitzsimons whose resignation the Pope accepted upon having reached the age limit.
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