From the Vatican Information Service:
"Lay men and women," said the Holy Father, "must be encouraged, through sound catechesis and continuing formation, to recognize the distinctive dignity and mission which they have received in Baptism and to embody in all their daily activities an integrated approach to life which finds its inspiration and strength from the Gospel. This means that the laity must be trained to distinguish clearly between their rights and duties as members of the Church and those which they have as members of human society, and encouraged to combine the two harmoniously, recognizing (as stated in "Lumen Gentium) that 'in every temporal affair they are to be guided by their Christian conscience, since there is no human activity - even of the temporal order - that can be withdrawn from God's dominion'."
The Pope underscored that "a clear and authoritative reaffirmation of these fundamental principles of the lay apostolate will help to overcome the serious pastoral problems created by a growing failure to understand the Church's binding obligation to remind the faithful of their duty in conscience to act in accordance with her authoritative teaching. There is urgent need for a comprehensive catechesis on the lay apostolate which will necessarily highlight the importance of a properly formed conscience, the intrinsic relationship between freedom and moral truth, and the grave duty incumbent upon each Christian to work to renew and perfect the temporal order in accordance with the values of God's Kingdom. While fully respecting the legitimate separation of Church and State in American life, such a catechesis must also make clear that for the faithful Christian there can be no separation between the faith which is to be believed and put into practice and a commitment to full and responsible participation in professional, political and cultural life."
He encouraged the bishops "to foster among the laity a shared sense of responsibility for the life and mission of the Church" which, when "rooted in the principles of a sound ecclesiology," will ensure genuine collaboration "without the danger of distorting this relationship by the uncritical importation of categories and structures drawn from secular life."
Tuesday, December 7, 2004
Monday, December 6, 2004
Immaculate Conception Parish in Jacksonville Celebrates 150 Years
One of the most beautiful churches in the south...
From Jacksonville.com: Metro: Church thrives as it marks 150 years 12/06/04:
"With its imposing white limestone construction and Gothic design, twin steeples, pipe organ, vaulted ceilings, marble pillars, life-like statuary and bigger-than-life stained glass windows, Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in downtown Jacksonville is a lot to take in.
'It's overwhelming compared to a normal church, at least in the beginning,' said Curt Crossley, 47, a parishioner at St. Patrick Catholic Church on the Northside.
A city employee who works downtown, Crossley attends Mass at Immaculate Conception during his lunch hour at least once a week because it's convenient. While he emphasizes that a church is its people, not its building, sometimes it's hard not to admire the structure itself. "
From Jacksonville.com: Metro: Church thrives as it marks 150 years 12/06/04:
"With its imposing white limestone construction and Gothic design, twin steeples, pipe organ, vaulted ceilings, marble pillars, life-like statuary and bigger-than-life stained glass windows, Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in downtown Jacksonville is a lot to take in.
'It's overwhelming compared to a normal church, at least in the beginning,' said Curt Crossley, 47, a parishioner at St. Patrick Catholic Church on the Northside.
A city employee who works downtown, Crossley attends Mass at Immaculate Conception during his lunch hour at least once a week because it's convenient. While he emphasizes that a church is its people, not its building, sometimes it's hard not to admire the structure itself. "
Feast of Saint Nicholas
Everything you ever wanted to know about the saint...at Saint Nicholas ::: Who is St. Nicholas?
Sunday, December 5, 2004
Saturday, December 4, 2004
Gator's Get Pope Urban
From Jacksonville.com: Florida Gators: Ute movement 12/04/04:
"Utah's Urban Meyer has agreed to become the next coach at the University of Florida, choosing the Gators over Notre Dame, several sources told the Times-Union on Friday.
Meyer's salary package is expected to be in excess of $2 million annually, according to a Utah source. Another report said the deal is a seven-year, $14 million package.
Neither Utah nor Florida officials issued a confirmation of the hiring on Friday, but Meyer's older sister, Cincinnati resident Gigi Escoe, did. She said she spoke with Meyer on Friday afternoon and congratulated him.
'I don't question him at all [about choosing UF over Notre Dame],' she said. 'He did exactly the right thing. He had two wonderful choices. Those opportunities were amazing.' "
"Utah's Urban Meyer has agreed to become the next coach at the University of Florida, choosing the Gators over Notre Dame, several sources told the Times-Union on Friday.
Meyer's salary package is expected to be in excess of $2 million annually, according to a Utah source. Another report said the deal is a seven-year, $14 million package.
Neither Utah nor Florida officials issued a confirmation of the hiring on Friday, but Meyer's older sister, Cincinnati resident Gigi Escoe, did. She said she spoke with Meyer on Friday afternoon and congratulated him.
'I don't question him at all [about choosing UF over Notre Dame],' she said. 'He did exactly the right thing. He had two wonderful choices. Those opportunities were amazing.' "
Pope's Message to Catholic Journalists
From Zenit News Agency - The World Seen From Rome:
"'To be able to carry out your mission fully, pay attention first of all that you yourselves are not lacking the necessary spiritual food of prayer and of an intense sacramental life,' he said.
'Be concerned as well with enriching your ethical and cultural formation, so that your convictions are kept in harmony with the Gospel and are not diverted by the prevailing pernicious tendencies of a certain modern culture,' the Pope added."
"'To be able to carry out your mission fully, pay attention first of all that you yourselves are not lacking the necessary spiritual food of prayer and of an intense sacramental life,' he said.
'Be concerned as well with enriching your ethical and cultural formation, so that your convictions are kept in harmony with the Gospel and are not diverted by the prevailing pernicious tendencies of a certain modern culture,' the Pope added."
Friday, December 3, 2004
Fox Resigns as Publisher of NCR (Reporter not Register)
From News - Catholic News Agency:
"The longtime editor and publisher of the National Catholic Reporter resigned Sept. 29, citing "professional and personal reasons."
Thomas C. Fox was at the newspaper for 25 years, holding the post of editor for 17 years and publisher for eight. His resignation will take effect Jan.1. The board of directors accepted Fox's resignation Nov. 13, and they named associate publisher Rita Larivee, a Sister of St. Anne, his successor.
The 60-year-old?s resignation comes unexpectedly at a time when the liberal newspaper is responding to the defeat of Senator John Kerry, the candidate NCR supported during the presidential campaign. "
"The longtime editor and publisher of the National Catholic Reporter resigned Sept. 29, citing "professional and personal reasons."
Thomas C. Fox was at the newspaper for 25 years, holding the post of editor for 17 years and publisher for eight. His resignation will take effect Jan.1. The board of directors accepted Fox's resignation Nov. 13, and they named associate publisher Rita Larivee, a Sister of St. Anne, his successor.
The 60-year-old?s resignation comes unexpectedly at a time when the liberal newspaper is responding to the defeat of Senator John Kerry, the candidate NCR supported during the presidential campaign. "
Thursday, December 2, 2004
Hint: If He Turns Blue He Probably Isn't "Slain in the Spirit"
This ties in well with my meditation for today at The Day Shall Dawn (Advent/Christmas Meditations posted daily):
From LarkNews.com:
"In the midst of a 'Holy Spirit' revival meeting at Full Gospel Temple Saturday night, Barry Munrow, 58, suffered a heart attack and went unnoticed for three hours because dozens of people were 'slain in the Spirit' around him.
'I thought he was overcome by the power of God,' says associate pastor Kevin Toomey, 35, who saw Munrow fall into the aisle during the visiting evangelist's sixth impassioned altar call. An usher laid a modesty cloth over Munrow and various people prayed for him throughout the evening. The evangelist came by at one point and touched Munrow's forehead and said, 'More, Lord. Fill him up.'
But at 11 p.m., when the service wound down, people noticed that Munrow had not moved for at least two hours. They also noticed he was blue. "
From LarkNews.com:
"In the midst of a 'Holy Spirit' revival meeting at Full Gospel Temple Saturday night, Barry Munrow, 58, suffered a heart attack and went unnoticed for three hours because dozens of people were 'slain in the Spirit' around him.
'I thought he was overcome by the power of God,' says associate pastor Kevin Toomey, 35, who saw Munrow fall into the aisle during the visiting evangelist's sixth impassioned altar call. An usher laid a modesty cloth over Munrow and various people prayed for him throughout the evening. The evangelist came by at one point and touched Munrow's forehead and said, 'More, Lord. Fill him up.'
But at 11 p.m., when the service wound down, people noticed that Munrow had not moved for at least two hours. They also noticed he was blue. "
Wednesday, December 1, 2004
Daily Advent Meditations
Gator's Bound for Peach Bowl
Will play either Miami or Virginia Tech (depending upon who wins the ACC) on Dec. 31st in Atlanta.
Priests Who are Heroes
Named by Michael Brown at Spirit Daily - Daily spiritual news from around the world:
"They are out there, these heroes. They are men like Father Bill McCarthy and Father Joe Whalen of Connecticut and Father Robert Altieri in Indiana, they are in there eighties like Father Donnan still plugging away out near Santa Fe. They are men with names like Sylvia and McFadden They are bishops with names like Galeone and Aquila and Curtiss. They are men with names like Woyjtila."
"They are out there, these heroes. They are men like Father Bill McCarthy and Father Joe Whalen of Connecticut and Father Robert Altieri in Indiana, they are in there eighties like Father Donnan still plugging away out near Santa Fe. They are men with names like Sylvia and McFadden They are bishops with names like Galeone and Aquila and Curtiss. They are men with names like Woyjtila."
Tuesday, November 30, 2004
Fire Urban Meyer.com Appears
A pre-emptive strike by a Gator fan who doesn't want anyone to buy the domain in imitation of fireronzook.com.
Home Page
Home Page
Daily Advent Meditations and Books for Christmas Gifts
Scranton Bishop Suppresses Conservative Group
From Catholic World News : Scranton bishop suppresses conservative group:
"Bishop Joseph Martino of Scranton, Pennsylvania, has suppressed the Society of St. John, citing grave financial problems and reports of sexual impropriety.
The Society of St. John, a conservative group dedicated to the revival of Catholic culture centered around the Tridentine Mass, was founded in the Scranton diocese in 1998, with the approval of then-Bishop James Timlin. But by 2002, the Society was beset with problems involving allegations of financial and sexual misconduct. Critics-- including disaffected former members-- cited lavish spending at the Society's rural Pennsylvania headquarters, and reports that adolescent boys were given alcohol and invited for overnight stays with the group's leaders. "
"Bishop Joseph Martino of Scranton, Pennsylvania, has suppressed the Society of St. John, citing grave financial problems and reports of sexual impropriety.
The Society of St. John, a conservative group dedicated to the revival of Catholic culture centered around the Tridentine Mass, was founded in the Scranton diocese in 1998, with the approval of then-Bishop James Timlin. But by 2002, the Society was beset with problems involving allegations of financial and sexual misconduct. Critics-- including disaffected former members-- cited lavish spending at the Society's rural Pennsylvania headquarters, and reports that adolescent boys were given alcohol and invited for overnight stays with the group's leaders. "
Monday, November 29, 2004
Paralyzed Woman Walks Again After Stem Cell Therapy
Not from embryonic stem cells or adult stem cells but from umbilical cord blood...
From Paralyzed woman walks again after stem cell therapy:
"The use of stem cells from cord blood could also point to a way to side-step the ethical dispute over the controversial use of embryos in embryonic stem-cell research.
'We have glimpsed at a silver lining over the horizon,' said Song Chang-Hoon, a member of the research team and a professor at Chosun University's medical school in the southwestern city of Kwangju.
'We were all surprised at the fast improvements in the patient.'
Under TV lights and flashing cameras, Hwang stood up from her wheelchair and shuffled forward and back a few paces with the help of the frame at the press conference here on Thursday.
'This is already a miracle for me,' she said. 'I never dreamed of getting to my feet again.'"
From Paralyzed woman walks again after stem cell therapy:
"The use of stem cells from cord blood could also point to a way to side-step the ethical dispute over the controversial use of embryos in embryonic stem-cell research.
'We have glimpsed at a silver lining over the horizon,' said Song Chang-Hoon, a member of the research team and a professor at Chosun University's medical school in the southwestern city of Kwangju.
'We were all surprised at the fast improvements in the patient.'
Under TV lights and flashing cameras, Hwang stood up from her wheelchair and shuffled forward and back a few paces with the help of the frame at the press conference here on Thursday.
'This is already a miracle for me,' she said. 'I never dreamed of getting to my feet again.'"
Sunday, November 28, 2004
Daily Advent Meditations
The First Sunday of Advent meditation has been posted at The Day Shall Dawn Upon Us.
Check back daily for new meditations throughout Advent and the Christmas season.
Check back daily for new meditations throughout Advent and the Christmas season.
Saturday, November 27, 2004
The Never-ending Search
From BBC NEWS | UK | Magazine | The never-ending search:
"Fascination with the Holy Grail has lasted for centuries, and now the Bletchley Park code-breakers have joined the hunt. But what is it that's made the grail the definition of something humans are always searching for but never actually finding? "
"Fascination with the Holy Grail has lasted for centuries, and now the Bletchley Park code-breakers have joined the hunt. But what is it that's made the grail the definition of something humans are always searching for but never actually finding? "
Friday, November 26, 2004
Pope Proposes Annual Day of Prayer for Vocations
In the United States...
From Wired News | Pope Urges U.S. National Prayer Day for More Priests:
"'I would propose for your consideration that the Catholic community in your country annually set aside a national day of prayer for priestly vocations,' the 84-year-old pontiff urged."
From Wired News | Pope Urges U.S. National Prayer Day for More Priests:
"'I would propose for your consideration that the Catholic community in your country annually set aside a national day of prayer for priestly vocations,' the 84-year-old pontiff urged."
Thursday, November 25, 2004
Happy Thanksgiving!
We are especially thankful this year, hope you find it in your heart to give thanks to God today also...
Wednesday, November 24, 2004
Advent Christmas Blog
Since I found doing this during Lent last year enjoyable, I've decided to do it for Advent/Christmas this year. The blog title will be The Day Shall Dawn Upon Us...
Meditations will begin on Saturday.
Meditations will begin on Saturday.
Mysterious Booms---Now in Richmond, VA
They've been happening here for some time...
From The Times Dispatch:
I should add that the local officials told residents that they had determined the cause of the "booms" but weren't going to share it with them. This story makes that statement less credible.
From The Times Dispatch:
Reports of the mysterious booms first felt in North Side neighborhoods are now coming from other city sections and beyond.
Folks from the Fan District, Lakeside, Short Pump and New Kent County all say they have sensed the shock.
Richmond leaders have even been contacted by officials from Fort Wayne, Ind., and several Canadian provinces where similar booms have been felt recently, city emergency services spokesman Bill Farrar said.
I should add that the local officials told residents that they had determined the cause of the "booms" but weren't going to share it with them. This story makes that statement less credible.
Monday, November 22, 2004
Confusion on the Home Front
Joseph is a little confused by the name of his baby brother Michael Jacob and has taken to calling him "Daddy" Jacob...since my first name is Michael he obviously thinks it is synonymous with daddy. This is how nicknames are born isn't it?
Joseph has also declared that Daddy Jacob's first words have already been spoken, "Allah"...from the sound he makes when crying.
Joseph has also declared that Daddy Jacob's first words have already been spoken, "Allah"...from the sound he makes when crying.
Father Fox Hit by Car
What is it with famous priests being struck by cars?
Please pray for Father Robert Fox who was struck by a car over the weekend. From what I hear he is doing fine, with some fractured bones in his arm. Father Fox is famous for his apostolate to spread devotion to Our Lady of Fatima.
Please pray for Father Robert Fox who was struck by a car over the weekend. From what I hear he is doing fine, with some fractured bones in his arm. Father Fox is famous for his apostolate to spread devotion to Our Lady of Fatima.
Fr. Benedict Live
For those who lament the lack of good Catholic education I can think of no better way for you to give yourself and your children a good solid hour of teaching every week than Father Benedict's new "live" show. Last night he touched on Purgatory and other after life issues.
By the way he mentioned last night a friend calling and telling him that they had visited Brother Fernando's grave...that "friend" was me.
Brother Ferdinand was a brother who always prayed for a happy death. Father Benedict had told the story of this brother's death the week before. The brother colapsed in the refectory and was taken to his room where a priest was summoned. After being annointed and having prayers said the brother rose from the bed and said "arrivederci"...waving his hand goodbye to all who were gathered around him and died.
By the way he mentioned last night a friend calling and telling him that they had visited Brother Fernando's grave...that "friend" was me.
Brother Ferdinand was a brother who always prayed for a happy death. Father Benedict had told the story of this brother's death the week before. The brother colapsed in the refectory and was taken to his room where a priest was summoned. After being annointed and having prayers said the brother rose from the bed and said "arrivederci"...waving his hand goodbye to all who were gathered around him and died.
Sunday, November 21, 2004
Good for Coach Zook
Glad to see Florida State get beat...and happy that Ron Zook will have that on his resume to land his next job.
Word from Amy (Should be up later today)
Thank you to everyone who has sent their congratulations and kind words. Amy returns home today and will probably have her own take published be early evening today.
Friday, November 19, 2004
Michael Jacob Dubruiel
Amy's confinement ended today at 1:14 with the arrival of Michael Jacob Dubruiel who was 7 pounds 11 ounces and 22 inches long.
We arrived at the hospital at 12:38, so you can see it all happened pretty quick, naturally and thank God safely.
Both Amy and M. Jacob are doing great!
Thanks to all who have offered their prayers and good wishes.
Michael Dubruiel's books
We arrived at the hospital at 12:38, so you can see it all happened pretty quick, naturally and thank God safely.
Both Amy and M. Jacob are doing great!
Thanks to all who have offered their prayers and good wishes.
Michael Dubruiel's books
Bishops Approve National Adult Catechism--Minus Merton
I find the reasoning quesionable. Merton still remains the best known American Catholic.
Bernardin made the cut probably because other bishops were voting on it--but given some recent statements by Richard Sipe on his situation, he hardly seems like a good choice.
From Catholic bishops approve national adult catechism:
"However, the final draft removed the Trappist monk and author Thomas Merton, who was originally the opening story. Every bishop on the committee had read Merton's bestselling 1949 autobiography about his journey from atheism to faith and thought he was an excellent example of a young American searching for God. But Merton, who died in 1968, is rejected by conservative Catholics who believe his later interest in Buddhist forms of prayer compromised his faith.
The main reason Merton was removed was because 'the generation we were speaking to had no idea who he was,' Wuerl said. 'Only secondarily did we take into consideration that we don't know all the details of the searching at the end of his life.'"
Bernardin made the cut probably because other bishops were voting on it--but given some recent statements by Richard Sipe on his situation, he hardly seems like a good choice.
From Catholic bishops approve national adult catechism:
"However, the final draft removed the Trappist monk and author Thomas Merton, who was originally the opening story. Every bishop on the committee had read Merton's bestselling 1949 autobiography about his journey from atheism to faith and thought he was an excellent example of a young American searching for God. But Merton, who died in 1968, is rejected by conservative Catholics who believe his later interest in Buddhist forms of prayer compromised his faith.
The main reason Merton was removed was because 'the generation we were speaking to had no idea who he was,' Wuerl said. 'Only secondarily did we take into consideration that we don't know all the details of the searching at the end of his life.'"
Pope to Visit Northern Ireland Next Year...
From International News Article | Reuters.com:
"Pope John Paul's health has stabilized recently, so much so that the Pontiff has expressed a desire to make at least two major trips abroad next year, including one to Northern Ireland.
The 84-year-old Pope and his aides have come to terms with the rigors and limits of Parkinson's disease. Although it has taken its toll over the past 10 years, it seems to have steadied recently, making planning, albeit tentative, easier."
"Pope John Paul's health has stabilized recently, so much so that the Pontiff has expressed a desire to make at least two major trips abroad next year, including one to Northern Ireland.
The 84-year-old Pope and his aides have come to terms with the rigors and limits of Parkinson's disease. Although it has taken its toll over the past 10 years, it seems to have steadied recently, making planning, albeit tentative, easier."
Thursday, November 18, 2004
Spurrier headed to South Carolina...Maybe
From Spurrier headed to South Carolina, announcement next week - Thursday, 11/18/04:
"The ol' head ball coach is on his way back to the Southeastern Conference -- just not where everyone expected.
Steve Spurrier, who guided Florida to six SEC championships and a national championship in his 12 years in Gainesville, has agreed in principle to take over at South Carolina for Lou Holtz as the Gamecocks' head coach, a source close to the situation told The Tennessean last night.
One potential snag in the agreement could be if Holtz, 67, has a change of heart and decides at the last minute not to retire. Spurrier has also been known to change his mind, although he's made it clear to South Carolina that the Gamecocks' job is the one he wants."
"The ol' head ball coach is on his way back to the Southeastern Conference -- just not where everyone expected.
Steve Spurrier, who guided Florida to six SEC championships and a national championship in his 12 years in Gainesville, has agreed in principle to take over at South Carolina for Lou Holtz as the Gamecocks' head coach, a source close to the situation told The Tennessean last night.
One potential snag in the agreement could be if Holtz, 67, has a change of heart and decides at the last minute not to retire. Spurrier has also been known to change his mind, although he's made it clear to South Carolina that the Gamecocks' job is the one he wants."
Wednesday, November 17, 2004
US Bishops Shelve Statement Urging Greater Use of Bible
Interesting from the perspective of the North/South rift that exist within the Catholic Chuch in the U.S.
From Boston.com / News / Nation / Washington / US bishops shelve statement urging greater use of Bible:
"'I can imagine the headline tomorrow: 'Bishops, in attempt to cut expenses, do not encourage people to read the Bible,' ' said Bishop Joseph M. Sullivan of Brooklyn.
Archbishop Oscar H. Lipscomb, of Mobile, Ala., said 'from my position, where the Bible is so much a part of any effort at evangelization, this would be a disaster public-relationswise.' And Bishop John W. Yanta, of Amarillo, Texas, said, 'Coming from a mission diocese, and also from the Bible Belt, I think it would be disastrous for us to vote against this, and I think it would be detrimental. The word of God is essential to evangelization.'
But opponents said that the catechism of the Catholic Church obviously encourages Catholics to read the Bible, and that a statement reiterating that support is unnecessary.
'All these arguments could be applied to just about every statement we make, but at some point we have to draw the line, as difficult as it might be,' said Bishop Thomas J. Tobin, of Youngstown, Ohio.
The bishops voted 137 to 102 not to pursue the statement until the conference can decide what its priorities are."
From Boston.com / News / Nation / Washington / US bishops shelve statement urging greater use of Bible:
"'I can imagine the headline tomorrow: 'Bishops, in attempt to cut expenses, do not encourage people to read the Bible,' ' said Bishop Joseph M. Sullivan of Brooklyn.
Archbishop Oscar H. Lipscomb, of Mobile, Ala., said 'from my position, where the Bible is so much a part of any effort at evangelization, this would be a disaster public-relationswise.' And Bishop John W. Yanta, of Amarillo, Texas, said, 'Coming from a mission diocese, and also from the Bible Belt, I think it would be disastrous for us to vote against this, and I think it would be detrimental. The word of God is essential to evangelization.'
But opponents said that the catechism of the Catholic Church obviously encourages Catholics to read the Bible, and that a statement reiterating that support is unnecessary.
'All these arguments could be applied to just about every statement we make, but at some point we have to draw the line, as difficult as it might be,' said Bishop Thomas J. Tobin, of Youngstown, Ohio.
The bishops voted 137 to 102 not to pursue the statement until the conference can decide what its priorities are."
Monday, November 15, 2004
Pastor: Bishops Should be Jailed for 'Silence' on Abuse
From Boston.com / News / Local / Mass. / Pastor says bishops should be jailed for 'silence' on abuse:
"The Rev. James J. Scahill, pastor of St. Michael's Parish in East Longmeadow, told 900 cheering members of Voice of the Faithful that parishioners nationwide are engaged in ''a struggle of truth against power' in their long effort to hold church leaders accountable for alleged abuse.
On the eve of a major bishops' conference in Washington, D.C., Scahill told a packed ballroom at the Worcester Centrum Centre that by refusing to speak out quickly and decisively and remove priests accused of abuse from the ministry, some church leaders had become mere ''readers of the Gospel instead of proponents of the Gospel.'"
"The Rev. James J. Scahill, pastor of St. Michael's Parish in East Longmeadow, told 900 cheering members of Voice of the Faithful that parishioners nationwide are engaged in ''a struggle of truth against power' in their long effort to hold church leaders accountable for alleged abuse.
On the eve of a major bishops' conference in Washington, D.C., Scahill told a packed ballroom at the Worcester Centrum Centre that by refusing to speak out quickly and decisively and remove priests accused of abuse from the ministry, some church leaders had become mere ''readers of the Gospel instead of proponents of the Gospel.'"
Sunday, November 14, 2004
Archbishop O'Malley Writes to Boston Parishes
Excerpts can be read atNews Read - TheDay.com:
"At times I ask God to call me home and let someone else finish this job"
"At times I ask God to call me home and let someone else finish this job"
Bishop Wenski Takes Over in Orlando
A month early...
From OrlandoSentinel.com: Orange County News:
"Pope John Paul II on Saturday named Bishop Thomas Wenski to succeed Bishop Norbert Dorsey as head of the Catholic Diocese of Orlando, effective immediately.
In July 2003, Wenski was named bishop coadjutor, signifying he would automatically take over for Dorsey when he retired. The common practice under this pope is for bishops to submit letters of resignation as they near their 75th birthday. Sometime thereafter, at the Vatican's discretion, the resignation is accepted.
Dorsey will not be 75 until Dec. 14, but no reason was given for the early appointment. The incumbent had no complaint about the timing of the hand-over to Wenski.
'He's ready, and I'm ready,' Dorsey said in an interview.
Dorsey, who will continue to live in Orlando, said he now hopes to begin a fitness program and to learn how to use a computer. He would still like to do pastoral care at prisons and hospitals, and perhaps fill in for other parish priests.
'I'm still a priest and a bishop,' Dorsey said. He had more earthly matters in mind after Saturday's announcement, however. His first job after the news conference was to get a flu shot."
From OrlandoSentinel.com: Orange County News:
"Pope John Paul II on Saturday named Bishop Thomas Wenski to succeed Bishop Norbert Dorsey as head of the Catholic Diocese of Orlando, effective immediately.
In July 2003, Wenski was named bishop coadjutor, signifying he would automatically take over for Dorsey when he retired. The common practice under this pope is for bishops to submit letters of resignation as they near their 75th birthday. Sometime thereafter, at the Vatican's discretion, the resignation is accepted.
Dorsey will not be 75 until Dec. 14, but no reason was given for the early appointment. The incumbent had no complaint about the timing of the hand-over to Wenski.
'He's ready, and I'm ready,' Dorsey said in an interview.
Dorsey, who will continue to live in Orlando, said he now hopes to begin a fitness program and to learn how to use a computer. He would still like to do pastoral care at prisons and hospitals, and perhaps fill in for other parish priests.
'I'm still a priest and a bishop,' Dorsey said. He had more earthly matters in mind after Saturday's announcement, however. His first job after the news conference was to get a flu shot."
Couple Sought to 'Sacrifice' Kids on Altar
In Rochester, NH in a Catholic Church...
From FOXNews.com - U.S. & World - Cops: Couple Sought to 'Sacrifice' Kids on Altar
From FOXNews.com - U.S. & World - Cops: Couple Sought to 'Sacrifice' Kids on Altar
Saturday, November 13, 2004
Bishops Who Don't Deny Communion
To gay activists...
They plan on presenting themselves at the Mass on Monday.
From The Rainbow Sash Movement: Gay Catholics Act Up with the National Council of Catholic Bishops:
"Earlier this year Cardinal Francis George of the Archdiocese of Chicago made international news for denying RSM members and their supporters Holy Communion at his Cathedral. Like Cardinal George of Chicago, Cardinal McCarrick will only bring more scandal to a scandal ridden church.
However, there is division on this matter among the bishops: Archbishop Harry Flynn (Minneapolis/St Paul, MN), Cardinal Roger Mahony (Los Angeles, CA), Bishop Mathew Clark (Rochester, NY), have welcomed RSM members to Holy Communion this past year. Additionally, Bishop Thomas J. Gumbleton (Detroit) has supported our call for inclusion."
They plan on presenting themselves at the Mass on Monday.
From The Rainbow Sash Movement: Gay Catholics Act Up with the National Council of Catholic Bishops:
"Earlier this year Cardinal Francis George of the Archdiocese of Chicago made international news for denying RSM members and their supporters Holy Communion at his Cathedral. Like Cardinal George of Chicago, Cardinal McCarrick will only bring more scandal to a scandal ridden church.
However, there is division on this matter among the bishops: Archbishop Harry Flynn (Minneapolis/St Paul, MN), Cardinal Roger Mahony (Los Angeles, CA), Bishop Mathew Clark (Rochester, NY), have welcomed RSM members to Holy Communion this past year. Additionally, Bishop Thomas J. Gumbleton (Detroit) has supported our call for inclusion."
Friday, November 12, 2004
Message for the End of Ramadan, 2004
From the Holy See, focuses on children...Message for the end of Ramadan, 2004:
"In their prayers many Christians have been thinking about you and accompanying you during this month of fasting, a month which occupies such an important place in the life of your community. At the earliest age possible you teach your children to observe this month of fasting, thus developing in them a sense of God and a spirit of religious obedience, at the same time helping them to train their will and to acquire self-discipline. In this way the family is, par excellence, the place where your children receive their first religious education."
"In their prayers many Christians have been thinking about you and accompanying you during this month of fasting, a month which occupies such an important place in the life of your community. At the earliest age possible you teach your children to observe this month of fasting, thus developing in them a sense of God and a spirit of religious obedience, at the same time helping them to train their will and to acquire self-discipline. In this way the family is, par excellence, the place where your children receive their first religious education."
Thursday, November 11, 2004
Papal Reaction to Arafat's Death
From Vatican Information Service:
The following telegram of condolences was sent in Pope John Paul's name to Rawhi Fattuh, president of the Palestinian Legislative Council, by Cardinal Secretary of State Angelo Sodano, upon learning of the death early this morning of Yasser Arafat:
"At this hour of sadness at the passing of President Yasser Arafat, His Holiness Pope John Paul is particularly close to the deceased's family, the Authorities and the Palestinian People. While entrusting his soul into the hands of the Almighty and Merciful God, the Holy Father prays to the Prince of Peace that the star of harmony will soon shine on the Holy Land and that the two Peoples dwelling therein may live reconciled among themselves as two independent and sovereign."
The following telegram of condolences was sent in Pope John Paul's name to Rawhi Fattuh, president of the Palestinian Legislative Council, by Cardinal Secretary of State Angelo Sodano, upon learning of the death early this morning of Yasser Arafat:
"At this hour of sadness at the passing of President Yasser Arafat, His Holiness Pope John Paul is particularly close to the deceased's family, the Authorities and the Palestinian People. While entrusting his soul into the hands of the Almighty and Merciful God, the Holy Father prays to the Prince of Peace that the star of harmony will soon shine on the Holy Land and that the two Peoples dwelling therein may live reconciled among themselves as two independent and sovereign."
Diocese of Spokane Filing for Bankruptcy
From SR.com: Bankruptcy for diocese:
"A week after failed settlement talks with victims of clergy sex abuse, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Spokane announced Wednesday that it will file for bankruptcy by the end of the month.
The move won't close schools or parishes, but it will stop a civil lawsuit from going to trial on Nov. 29. Filing for Chapter 11 also forces the diocese to surrender its financial records for public scrutiny.
'We are not a wealthy diocese,' Bishop William Skylstad said during a press conference Wednesday. He said filing for bankruptcy accomplishes two goals: 'All claims will be treated equally, fairly, with justice' while allowing the diocese to continue its ministry and mission in Eastern Washington."
"A week after failed settlement talks with victims of clergy sex abuse, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Spokane announced Wednesday that it will file for bankruptcy by the end of the month.
The move won't close schools or parishes, but it will stop a civil lawsuit from going to trial on Nov. 29. Filing for Chapter 11 also forces the diocese to surrender its financial records for public scrutiny.
'We are not a wealthy diocese,' Bishop William Skylstad said during a press conference Wednesday. He said filing for bankruptcy accomplishes two goals: 'All claims will be treated equally, fairly, with justice' while allowing the diocese to continue its ministry and mission in Eastern Washington."
Wednesday, November 10, 2004
U.N. Demands Poland Allow Abortion
Another reason to abolish the United Nations...
From LifeSite Special Report - U.N. Demands Poland Overturn Laws Against Abortion:
"The United Nations Human Rights Committee (UNHRC) concluded a review on Poland's compliance with the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), demanding that the mostly-Catholic nation 'liberalize' its abortion laws. The UN committee composed of 18 UN human rights 'experts' from various countries met with Polish officials on October 27 and 28, making its observations and recommendations on November 4.
While, the UN itself and the ICCPR specifically does not officially promote abortion, both the organization and the committee enforcing the ICCPR have often been criticized for meddling in the contentious issue. The November 4 statement of the UNHRC is particularly blunt in demanding Poland legalize abortion. 'The State Party should liberalize its legislation and practice on abortion,' it said."
From LifeSite Special Report - U.N. Demands Poland Overturn Laws Against Abortion:
"The United Nations Human Rights Committee (UNHRC) concluded a review on Poland's compliance with the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), demanding that the mostly-Catholic nation 'liberalize' its abortion laws. The UN committee composed of 18 UN human rights 'experts' from various countries met with Polish officials on October 27 and 28, making its observations and recommendations on November 4.
While, the UN itself and the ICCPR specifically does not officially promote abortion, both the organization and the committee enforcing the ICCPR have often been criticized for meddling in the contentious issue. The November 4 statement of the UNHRC is particularly blunt in demanding Poland legalize abortion. 'The State Party should liberalize its legislation and practice on abortion,' it said."
God's Little Hobo
From a reader:
To view Virginia's book click on the link:
I am writing in regards to the book "God's Little Hobo" by Virginia Cyr,
edited by Dr. Quentin Colgan and published by Our Sunday Visitor Books.
This book is a compilation of some of the "Letters to Mother" (Blessed
Mother Mary) that Virginia wrote during the last few years of her life has
touched me deeply. Abandoned by her mother at the age of four years, she spent
her life in foster homes and finally an orphanage. In the letters she confides
to our Blessed Mother Mary as a child would confide in her own earthly mother.
She tells Mary about her joys, trials, sufferings. She had such a close
relationship with Mary. Everything she owned and everything she did was always
"ours"....our chair, our room, our mail, our retreat. Virginia longed for her
very own "Nazareth" - a home with family who would be there for her - a place
where she felt wanted and loved. She suffered immense physical pain due to her
cerebral palsy but most people that knew her were unaware of just how much she
really suffered. She hid it so well. Her spirituality reminds me of St. Therese
the Little Flower of Jesus.
My prayer is that some day Virginia Cyr will
be canonized a Saint in our Catholic church. I have told numerous people about
Virginia and some are reading the book now.
This book has left me wanting to know more about Virginia Cyr. Dr. Quentin Colgan has a beautiful web site filled with information about Virginia. It would be wonderful to have more of her "Letters to Mother" published in another book.
I thank Dr. Colgan for introducing me and countless others to Virginia Cyr.
Thank you for publishing this awe inspiring book.
To view Virginia's book click on the link:
Anti-religious Post Election Commentary
Go to their site to read the list...
From CATHOLIC LEAGUE for Religious and Civil Rights:
"Last week Catholic League president William Donohue listed the anti-religious commentary that many cultural elites offered in the aftermath of the election. "
From CATHOLIC LEAGUE for Religious and Civil Rights:
"Last week Catholic League president William Donohue listed the anti-religious commentary that many cultural elites offered in the aftermath of the election. "
Arctic Melting Fast; May Swamp U.S. Coasts by 2099
Inland Florida land may be ocean front property in your children's lifetime!
From Arctic Melting Fast; May Swamp U.S. Coasts by 2099
From Arctic Melting Fast; May Swamp U.S. Coasts by 2099
Tuesday, November 9, 2004
Here We Go Again - Arafat Is Dead, Palestinian Sources Say
Of course the Israelies have said that he's been dead, hooked up to life support for a number of days now. See previous posts.
From Yahoo! News - Arafat Is Dead, Palestinian Sources Say:
"'He is dead,' a senior political source close to Arafat told Reuters in Paris, where the 75-year-old leader has been lying in a coma at a French military hospital.
Asked to confirm Arafat's death, another official close to the president said: 'Yes, he is dead. There will be an announcement soon.'
None of the sources gave any details of the cause of death.
Officials in the West Bank said they had not been informed that Arafat was dead. "
From Yahoo! News - Arafat Is Dead, Palestinian Sources Say:
"'He is dead,' a senior political source close to Arafat told Reuters in Paris, where the 75-year-old leader has been lying in a coma at a French military hospital.
Asked to confirm Arafat's death, another official close to the president said: 'Yes, he is dead. There will be an announcement soon.'
None of the sources gave any details of the cause of death.
Officials in the West Bank said they had not been informed that Arafat was dead. "
Review of Surprised by Canon Law
From Zenit News Agency - The World Seen From Rome:
The book and another new book by Pete and Pat Madrid:
"Q: What are the basics of the code that Catholics need to know on a
daily basis?
Vere: There are several of basics, both in
terms of canonical rights and canonical responsibilities.
Yet Canon 213
provides a nice summary, stating: 'The Christian faithful have the right to
receive assistance from the sacred pastors out of the spiritual goods of the
Church, especially the word of God and the sacraments.' In other words, all
Catholics have the right to sound teaching and the means with which to grow in
holiness. "
The book and another new book by Pete and Pat Madrid:
Monday, November 8, 2004
USATODAY.com - Church struggles with change
Major series of stories in the USA Today, today. Slant is inaccurate...fails to mention there are more Catholics even if there are fewer priests/parishes serving them. Also fails to note the true why of decline in Mass attendance, something that the Year of the Eucharist if properly implemented (and don't hold your breath on that happening) could bring about a great reform in the Mass.
On a side note that is relevant to this point: A whole generation of priests have been taught a confused theology of the Church. Ask any of them a simple question and you are bound to receive an overqualified answer that nuances everything to the point of saying almost nothing. Until this problem is remedied, I don't see how things are going to change.
For Example: All Souls becomes "memorial day" with no mention of praying for the dead, or keeping in mind our final end.
From USATODAY.com - Church struggles with change:
On a side note that is relevant to this point: A whole generation of priests have been taught a confused theology of the Church. Ask any of them a simple question and you are bound to receive an overqualified answer that nuances everything to the point of saying almost nothing. Until this problem is remedied, I don't see how things are going to change.
For Example: All Souls becomes "memorial day" with no mention of praying for the dead, or keeping in mind our final end.
From USATODAY.com - Church struggles with change:
"Today there are fewer parishes and fewer priests than in 1990 and fewer of
the nation's 65 million Catholics in those pews. And there's no sign of
return."
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