Beer and water used to cook a potato...
From Germany's oldest man dies, despite unusual drinking regimen - Yahoo! UK & Ireland News:
"Germany's oldest man, who has died aged 111, said that a little sweetened beer and the potato cooking water most people throw out were the secret of his longevity, family members said.
Hermann Doernemann passed away on Wednesday at a clinic in Duesseldorf, western Germany from the effects of pneumonia, some three months short of his 112 birthday, on May 27.
Doernemann had long been considered the world's oldest man by the Guinness Book of World Records until a Puerto Rican man aged 113 surfaced."
Saturday, March 5, 2005
Sexual Sanity from John Mallen
From The Fact Is Home Page:
"Let me state it even more clearly: 1. You can die from sleeping with the wrong person. 2. If Catholic teaching on sexuality were taken seriously, let alone obeyed, there would be no AIDS crisis. Period.
I made these statements in a college newspaper 20 years ago at a Catholic university and one of the Deans of Students looked at me as if I had uttered a racial slur. It is considered bigotry to state the obvious when it contradicts modern sexual ideology.
To cite another example of the 'conventional wisdom' of sexual ideology: The Boston Globe in a Feb. 18 editorial entitled 'Better Choices,' states, 'Access to reliable birth control is an obvious way to reduce the need for abortion . . . but religious conservatives have blocked making even condoms available in high schools.' What the Globe writers don't understand, like many sexual ideologues, is that contraception is the gateway to abortion, not a preventative. In the adolescent mind especially, contraception, including condoms, creates a false security to indulging in risky behavior that involves a great deal more risk than simple pregnancy.
Without imputing motives to anyone several questions come to mind. How much risk are the sexual ideologues willing to expose the young to in order avoid the truth that sexual activity is not merely a recreational activity or means to relieve tension? And that to engage in it recklessly is simply dangerous and wrong? And that there is a connection between the dangerous and the wrong? That their goal of creating a sexual utopia has resulted in disillusionment, alienation, sickness and death? "
"Let me state it even more clearly: 1. You can die from sleeping with the wrong person. 2. If Catholic teaching on sexuality were taken seriously, let alone obeyed, there would be no AIDS crisis. Period.
I made these statements in a college newspaper 20 years ago at a Catholic university and one of the Deans of Students looked at me as if I had uttered a racial slur. It is considered bigotry to state the obvious when it contradicts modern sexual ideology.
To cite another example of the 'conventional wisdom' of sexual ideology: The Boston Globe in a Feb. 18 editorial entitled 'Better Choices,' states, 'Access to reliable birth control is an obvious way to reduce the need for abortion . . . but religious conservatives have blocked making even condoms available in high schools.' What the Globe writers don't understand, like many sexual ideologues, is that contraception is the gateway to abortion, not a preventative. In the adolescent mind especially, contraception, including condoms, creates a false security to indulging in risky behavior that involves a great deal more risk than simple pregnancy.
Without imputing motives to anyone several questions come to mind. How much risk are the sexual ideologues willing to expose the young to in order avoid the truth that sexual activity is not merely a recreational activity or means to relieve tension? And that to engage in it recklessly is simply dangerous and wrong? And that there is a connection between the dangerous and the wrong? That their goal of creating a sexual utopia has resulted in disillusionment, alienation, sickness and death? "
Friday, March 4, 2005
'The Exorcist' Dies
From TheMilwaukeeChannel.com - News - Priest Who Helped Inspire 'The Exorcist' Dies:
"A priest who participated in the 1949 exorcism that inspired 'The Exorcist' book and movie has died at age 83.
A funeral mass will be held Friday in a Milwaukee suburb for the Rev. Walter Halloran.
He was the last living Jesuit who assisted in the exorcism at a St. Louis hospital. Halloran died Tuesday night at a Jesuit retirement home in suburban Milwaukee.
Halloran was a 27-year-old Jesuit student when a priest called him to the psychiatric wing at a St. Louis hospital to help control a 14-year-old boy who he believed was possessed by a demon.
A brief news account of the incident inspired William Peter Blatty to write his 1971 best seller, 'The Exorcist,' which led to the movie a few years later."
"A priest who participated in the 1949 exorcism that inspired 'The Exorcist' book and movie has died at age 83.
A funeral mass will be held Friday in a Milwaukee suburb for the Rev. Walter Halloran.
He was the last living Jesuit who assisted in the exorcism at a St. Louis hospital. Halloran died Tuesday night at a Jesuit retirement home in suburban Milwaukee.
Halloran was a 27-year-old Jesuit student when a priest called him to the psychiatric wing at a St. Louis hospital to help control a 14-year-old boy who he believed was possessed by a demon.
A brief news account of the incident inspired William Peter Blatty to write his 1971 best seller, 'The Exorcist,' which led to the movie a few years later."
Society for a Moratorium on the Music of Marty Haugen and David Haas
Found at Society for a Moratorium on the Music of Marty Haugen and David Haas:
"No matter where you go to Mass on Sunday in the United States, it's difficult to escape the music of Marty Haugen and David Haas. I for one am sick and tired of hearing their banal ditties everywhere, and in desperation I have founded this Society for a Moratorium on the Music of Marty Haugen and David Haas, or SMMMHDH for short. The Society is awaiting pontifical approval from the Holy See as a pious sodality. :-)
Thomas G. McFaul, in his essay on The Sad State of Liturgical Music, laments, 'What a shame for a young person to grow up thinking that Marty Haugen is the traditional music of the Catholic church!' The Catholic Church has a rich patrimony of sacred music, but it is a closed book to most of today's Catholics. "
"No matter where you go to Mass on Sunday in the United States, it's difficult to escape the music of Marty Haugen and David Haas. I for one am sick and tired of hearing their banal ditties everywhere, and in desperation I have founded this Society for a Moratorium on the Music of Marty Haugen and David Haas, or SMMMHDH for short. The Society is awaiting pontifical approval from the Holy See as a pious sodality. :-)
Thomas G. McFaul, in his essay on The Sad State of Liturgical Music, laments, 'What a shame for a young person to grow up thinking that Marty Haugen is the traditional music of the Catholic church!' The Catholic Church has a rich patrimony of sacred music, but it is a closed book to most of today's Catholics. "
German Speaking Brazilian Cardinal "the time has come for the pope to resign"
From World: The pope of the divided heart:
"Yes, the time has come for the pope to resign so that the church can continue to respond to historical changes and to this critical moment that we are passing through," said 83-year-old Cardinal Paulo Evaristo Arns of Brazil during a recent wide-ranging interview with a major Brazilian daily.
The cardinal said he has talked with the pope about retirement but doubts John Paul II will go.
"I spoke to him about this with all simplicity," Arns said. ?Indirectly, I asked him if it weren't too much for him. This was his answer: 'Paulo, from here to here [pointing to his chest and to his head] I feel fine. I am the same person I was when I was elected to the papacy. I do not see any reason to resign because my head, my heart and my organs are all doing well.' "
This meeting, Arns said, was about five or six years ago, when he still went to Rome regularly. "The pope had some difficulty walking, but we did walk up and down in the corridor," Arns said. "We were speaking in German. He speaks German clearly, and I do too since it was my second language at home."
"Yes, the time has come for the pope to resign so that the church can continue to respond to historical changes and to this critical moment that we are passing through," said 83-year-old Cardinal Paulo Evaristo Arns of Brazil during a recent wide-ranging interview with a major Brazilian daily.
The cardinal said he has talked with the pope about retirement but doubts John Paul II will go.
"I spoke to him about this with all simplicity," Arns said. ?Indirectly, I asked him if it weren't too much for him. This was his answer: 'Paulo, from here to here [pointing to his chest and to his head] I feel fine. I am the same person I was when I was elected to the papacy. I do not see any reason to resign because my head, my heart and my organs are all doing well.' "
This meeting, Arns said, was about five or six years ago, when he still went to Rome regularly. "The pope had some difficulty walking, but we did walk up and down in the corridor," Arns said. "We were speaking in German. He speaks German clearly, and I do too since it was my second language at home."
Archbishop Chaput's Heated Luncheon
From Rocky Mountain News: Religion:
Verbal fisticuffs broke out Tuesday between Denver Archbishop Charles Chaput and a luncheon audience that challenged him to defend the church's role in public life.
'Why do (religions) feel they have to impose their views on us?' asked one woman during a spirited question-and-answer session following Chaput's speech to the City Club of Denver.
"If we don't - you'll impose your views on us," Chaput shot back to murmurs from the group of about 120 business and civic leaders.
Verbal fisticuffs broke out Tuesday between Denver Archbishop Charles Chaput and a luncheon audience that challenged him to defend the church's role in public life.
'Why do (religions) feel they have to impose their views on us?' asked one woman during a spirited question-and-answer session following Chaput's speech to the City Club of Denver.
"If we don't - you'll impose your views on us," Chaput shot back to murmurs from the group of about 120 business and civic leaders.
Thursday, March 3, 2005
Bishop Lynch Adds His Statement to the Florida Bishop's Conference Statement
I'll let him speak for himself, but doesn't this seem a little strange and final?
From theRoman Catholic Diocese of St. Petersburg:
"The bishops of Florida have once again addressed the issue of the withdrawal of the artificial feeding tube from Terri Schiavo. As in the past, I join them in addressing this complex and tragic situation. As the local bishop and pastor for all the family parties involved, I would like to add the following. At the end of the day (the judicial, legislative days) the decision to remove Terri's artificial feeding tube will be that of her husband, Michael. It is he who will give the order, not the courts or certainly the governor or legislature or the medical personnel surrounding and caring for Terri. In other words, as I have said from the beginning of this sad situation, the decision will be made within a family. A significant part of that family feels they are outside of the decision-making process and they are in great pain and suffering mightily.
I urge and pray that before the finality, one last effort be made for mediation. Normally, at the end of life, families of the person in extremis agree that it is time to allow the Lord to call a loved one to Himself, feeling that they have done all they possibly might to provide alternatives to death, every possible treatment protocol which might be helpful has been attempted. There is a peace. This will not happen in this instance because of the seeming intractability of both sides. I beg and pray that both sides might step back a little and allow some mediation in these final hours. The legacy of Terri's situation should not be that of those who love her the most, loathing the actions of one another, but of a heroic moment of concern for the feelings of each other, guided by moral and ethical considerations, with a single focus of achieving the best result for Terri. I ask the Catholics of the Diocese of St. Petersburg in the waning days of Lent to pray hard to the “Author of All Life” for Terri and for her family.
"
From theRoman Catholic Diocese of St. Petersburg:
"The bishops of Florida have once again addressed the issue of the withdrawal of the artificial feeding tube from Terri Schiavo. As in the past, I join them in addressing this complex and tragic situation. As the local bishop and pastor for all the family parties involved, I would like to add the following. At the end of the day (the judicial, legislative days) the decision to remove Terri's artificial feeding tube will be that of her husband, Michael. It is he who will give the order, not the courts or certainly the governor or legislature or the medical personnel surrounding and caring for Terri. In other words, as I have said from the beginning of this sad situation, the decision will be made within a family. A significant part of that family feels they are outside of the decision-making process and they are in great pain and suffering mightily.
I urge and pray that before the finality, one last effort be made for mediation. Normally, at the end of life, families of the person in extremis agree that it is time to allow the Lord to call a loved one to Himself, feeling that they have done all they possibly might to provide alternatives to death, every possible treatment protocol which might be helpful has been attempted. There is a peace. This will not happen in this instance because of the seeming intractability of both sides. I beg and pray that both sides might step back a little and allow some mediation in these final hours. The legacy of Terri's situation should not be that of those who love her the most, loathing the actions of one another, but of a heroic moment of concern for the feelings of each other, guided by moral and ethical considerations, with a single focus of achieving the best result for Terri. I ask the Catholics of the Diocese of St. Petersburg in the waning days of Lent to pray hard to the “Author of All Life” for Terri and for her family.
"
New Processional Hymn Coming Soon to Your Church?
From Catholic World News (CWN):
"The processional hymn for the Young Adults Liturgy at the recent L.A. Religious Education Conference showcased David Haas's catchy new 'Gathering Song' (see pp. 44-45 of the program). A sampler:
Come all you single ones, divorced and married:
Come you who have lost your spouse, all who are lonely.
With Christ our brother, we are loved and made whole!
Refrain: All is ready. Here and now. All are welcome here.
Come all you young and old, all male and female.
Come, now, all gay and straight, it does not matter.
With Christ, all people are one in God's whole!
Refrain: All is ready. Here and now. All are welcome here.
It pains me inexpressibly to report that Haas's litany extends no welcome to hermaphrodites, cellists, gluten-intolerant Latvians, Scorpios, Jesuits, self-employed taxpayers filing jointly, redheads, or Catholics. "
"The processional hymn for the Young Adults Liturgy at the recent L.A. Religious Education Conference showcased David Haas's catchy new 'Gathering Song' (see pp. 44-45 of the program). A sampler:
Come all you single ones, divorced and married:
Come you who have lost your spouse, all who are lonely.
With Christ our brother, we are loved and made whole!
Refrain: All is ready. Here and now. All are welcome here.
Come all you young and old, all male and female.
Come, now, all gay and straight, it does not matter.
With Christ, all people are one in God's whole!
Refrain: All is ready. Here and now. All are welcome here.
It pains me inexpressibly to report that Haas's litany extends no welcome to hermaphrodites, cellists, gluten-intolerant Latvians, Scorpios, Jesuits, self-employed taxpayers filing jointly, redheads, or Catholics. "
New Co-adjutor for Burlington
From the Vatican Information Service:
Appointed Msgr. Salvatore Ronald Matano, local collaborator of the apostolic nunciature to the U.S.A., as coadjutor bishop of Burlington (area 23,651, population 608,827, Catholics 149,048, priests 168, permanent deacons 38, religious 261), U.S.A. The bishop-elect was born in Providence, U.S.A., in 1946 and ordained a priest in 1971.
Appointed Msgr. Salvatore Ronald Matano, local collaborator of the apostolic nunciature to the U.S.A., as coadjutor bishop of Burlington (area 23,651, population 608,827, Catholics 149,048, priests 168, permanent deacons 38, religious 261), U.S.A. The bishop-elect was born in Providence, U.S.A., in 1946 and ordained a priest in 1971.
Pope May Leave Hospital by Easter
From Yahoo! News - Vatican: Pope 'Progressively Improving':
"Pope John Paul II is 'progressively improving' and may be able to leave the hospital by Easter, the Vatican said Thursday, a week after the pontiff was rushed to the hospital for a second time in a month. "
"Pope John Paul II is 'progressively improving' and may be able to leave the hospital by Easter, the Vatican said Thursday, a week after the pontiff was rushed to the hospital for a second time in a month. "
Wednesday, March 2, 2005
Florida Bishops Speak Out for Terri
From The Florida Catholic Conference | Continued Concerns for Terry Schiavo:
"Terri Schindler Schiavo has been the center of national media attention, and the focus of a debate that touches all three branches of government. Mrs. Schiavo is not 'brain dead' or comatose. She has lived in a nursing home for years, presently a hospice facility, generally needing only nursing care and assistance in receiving nourishment. Some experts say she is in a 'persistent vegetative state;' others say she is not. Her husband wants to remove her feeding tube, insisting she expressed clearly this would be her wish; her parents and siblings vigorously disagree, and have offered to care for her as long as she lives. Questions about her prognosis and wishes persist, raising doubt as to what she would truly want.
No longer able to speak on her own behalf, Mrs. Schiavo is a defenseless human being with inherent dignity, deserving of our respect, care and concern. Her plight dramatizes one of the most critical questions we face: To be a truly human society, how should we care for those we may not be able to cure?
In our past statements concerning Terri Schiavo, as well as those by Bishop Robert N. Lynch of the Diocese of St. Petersburg, we have made it clear that there should be a presumption in favor of providing nutrition and hydration even by artificial means as long as it is of sufficient benefit to outweigh the burdens involved to the patient. We reiterate our plea that Mrs. Schiavo continues to receive all treatments and care that will be of benefit to her.
"Terri Schindler Schiavo has been the center of national media attention, and the focus of a debate that touches all three branches of government. Mrs. Schiavo is not 'brain dead' or comatose. She has lived in a nursing home for years, presently a hospice facility, generally needing only nursing care and assistance in receiving nourishment. Some experts say she is in a 'persistent vegetative state;' others say she is not. Her husband wants to remove her feeding tube, insisting she expressed clearly this would be her wish; her parents and siblings vigorously disagree, and have offered to care for her as long as she lives. Questions about her prognosis and wishes persist, raising doubt as to what she would truly want.
No longer able to speak on her own behalf, Mrs. Schiavo is a defenseless human being with inherent dignity, deserving of our respect, care and concern. Her plight dramatizes one of the most critical questions we face: To be a truly human society, how should we care for those we may not be able to cure?
In our past statements concerning Terri Schiavo, as well as those by Bishop Robert N. Lynch of the Diocese of St. Petersburg, we have made it clear that there should be a presumption in favor of providing nutrition and hydration even by artificial means as long as it is of sufficient benefit to outweigh the burdens involved to the patient. We reiterate our plea that Mrs. Schiavo continues to receive all treatments and care that will be of benefit to her.
Tuesday, March 1, 2005
Recovering Pope Begins Speaking
From BBC NEWS | Europe | Recovering Pope begins speaking:
"Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, a senior Vatican official, said Pope John Paul II conducted a working meeting at Rome's Gemelli Hospital.
The pontiff spoke in both Italian and German during the meeting, the cardinal told reporters.
The Pope was admitted to hospital last week suffering from breathing problems, and underwent an emergency tracheotomy.
'The Holy Father spoke to me in German and Italian. He was very alert. He will be working on some of the documentation that I brought to him,' Cardinal Ratzinger said as he left the hospital."
"Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, a senior Vatican official, said Pope John Paul II conducted a working meeting at Rome's Gemelli Hospital.
The pontiff spoke in both Italian and German during the meeting, the cardinal told reporters.
The Pope was admitted to hospital last week suffering from breathing problems, and underwent an emergency tracheotomy.
'The Holy Father spoke to me in German and Italian. He was very alert. He will be working on some of the documentation that I brought to him,' Cardinal Ratzinger said as he left the hospital."
Monday, February 28, 2005
Update on Pope's Condition
From the Vatican Information Service:
"The Holy Father's post-operative phase is taking place without complications.
"His general condition and biological parameters continue to be good.
"The Holy Father is eating regularly, spends some hours in an armchair and has begun exercises to rehabilitate breathing and phonation.
"The next communique will be on Thursday, March 3."
"The Holy Father's post-operative phase is taking place without complications.
"His general condition and biological parameters continue to be good.
"The Holy Father is eating regularly, spends some hours in an armchair and has begun exercises to rehabilitate breathing and phonation.
"The next communique will be on Thursday, March 3."
Sunday, February 27, 2005
Pope Appears at Window, Blesses Crowrd
From ABC News: Pope Appears at Window; Aide Says Blessing for Him:
A weak Pope John Paul made a surprise appearance at his hospital window Sunday, reassuring Catholics around the world as an aide miles away at the Vatican presided for the first time at his weekly blessing.
Looking stiff and awkward, the 84-year-old Pope waved twice from the 10th floor window of the Gemelli hospital before aides wheeled his chair away.
He appeared for about two minutes with the windows closed and made the sign of the cross toward a small group of people below, some of whom broke into tears when they saw him.
The Angelus prayer usually takes place wherever the Pope is at noon Sunday. For John Paul to be elsewhere was a first in a 26-year-old papacy.
Still, the sight of the Pope, weak as he was, comforted the faithful. It was the first time he has been seen in public since he was rushed to hospital Thursday morning with acute breathing problems that necessitated a tracheotomy.
"I saw his hand raised. I'm telling you, I had faith. I'd been praying he'd come. The world still needs this Pope. I hope we'll see much more of him in the future," said Laura Tosti, an Italian waiting outside, her eyes welling up with tears. Minutes before the Pope appeared at the window, Archbishop Leonardo Sandri read his address for him in St. Peter's Square and delivered a blessing that he stressed was "in the name of the Holy Father."
Saturday, February 26, 2005
Lenten Prayer of St. Ephrem
From The Prayer of St. Ephrem:
"[The Prayer of St. Ephrem is taken in the Byzantine Church during the Liturgy of the Presanctified (Liturgy of Pope St. Gregory the Great, taken by both Catholic and Orthodox alike during this period), during all services of the Divine Office during Lent and at various other times during the day - recommended at morning, noon, evening - upon arising and before retiring for the night.]
{Making a prostration}
O LORD, Master of my life, grant that I may not be infected with the spirit of slothfulness and inquisitiveness, with the spirit of ambition and vain talking.
{Making a prostration}
Grant instead to me, your servant, the spirit of purity and of humility, the spirit of patience and neighborly love.
{Making a third prostration}
O Lord and King, grant me the grace of being aware of my sins and of not thinking evil of those of my brethren.
For you are blessed, now and ever, and forever.
Amen.
Lord Jesus Christ, King of Kings, You have power over life and death. You know what is secret and hidden, and neither our thoughts nor our feelings are concealed from You. Cure me of duplicity; I have done evil before You. Now my life declines from day to day and my sins increase. O Lord, God of souls and bodies, You know the extreme frailty of my soul and my flesh. Grant me strength in my weakness, O Lord, and sustain me in my misery. Give me a grateful soul that I may never cease to recall Your benefits, O Lord most bountiful. Be not mindful of my many sins, but forgive me all my misdeeds. O Lord, disdain not my prayer - the prayer of a wretched sinner; sustain me with Your grace until the end, that it may protect me as in the past. It is Your grace which has taught me wisdom; blessed are they who follow her ways, for they shall receive the crown of glory. In spite of my unworthiness, I praise You and I glorify You, O Lord, for Your mercy to me is without limit. You have been my help and my protection. May the name of Your majesty be praised forever. To you, our God, be glory. Amen."
"[The Prayer of St. Ephrem is taken in the Byzantine Church during the Liturgy of the Presanctified (Liturgy of Pope St. Gregory the Great, taken by both Catholic and Orthodox alike during this period), during all services of the Divine Office during Lent and at various other times during the day - recommended at morning, noon, evening - upon arising and before retiring for the night.]
{Making a prostration}
O LORD, Master of my life, grant that I may not be infected with the spirit of slothfulness and inquisitiveness, with the spirit of ambition and vain talking.
{Making a prostration}
Grant instead to me, your servant, the spirit of purity and of humility, the spirit of patience and neighborly love.
{Making a third prostration}
O Lord and King, grant me the grace of being aware of my sins and of not thinking evil of those of my brethren.
For you are blessed, now and ever, and forever.
Amen.
Lord Jesus Christ, King of Kings, You have power over life and death. You know what is secret and hidden, and neither our thoughts nor our feelings are concealed from You. Cure me of duplicity; I have done evil before You. Now my life declines from day to day and my sins increase. O Lord, God of souls and bodies, You know the extreme frailty of my soul and my flesh. Grant me strength in my weakness, O Lord, and sustain me in my misery. Give me a grateful soul that I may never cease to recall Your benefits, O Lord most bountiful. Be not mindful of my many sins, but forgive me all my misdeeds. O Lord, disdain not my prayer - the prayer of a wretched sinner; sustain me with Your grace until the end, that it may protect me as in the past. It is Your grace which has taught me wisdom; blessed are they who follow her ways, for they shall receive the crown of glory. In spite of my unworthiness, I praise You and I glorify You, O Lord, for Your mercy to me is without limit. You have been my help and my protection. May the name of Your majesty be praised forever. To you, our God, be glory. Amen."
Pope Will Live ...according to prophetic stone
From Herald Sun: Stone carving says Pope will live [26feb05]:
"A STONE carving in one of Rome's biggest cathedrals may know what millions of Catholics around the world have been fretting about for the past two days: Will Pope John Paul II survive his latest health crisis?
The carved marble monument to Pope Sylvester II, who ruled the Catholic church 1000 years ago, is said to moisten when the death of a pontiff is imminent.
Today, a priest touched the carving in Rome's Basilica of Saint John Lateran and confirmed it was dry - good news for the Pope, who underwent throat surgery yesterday after being rushed to hospital with breathing problems."
"A STONE carving in one of Rome's biggest cathedrals may know what millions of Catholics around the world have been fretting about for the past two days: Will Pope John Paul II survive his latest health crisis?
The carved marble monument to Pope Sylvester II, who ruled the Catholic church 1000 years ago, is said to moisten when the death of a pontiff is imminent.
Today, a priest touched the carving in Rome's Basilica of Saint John Lateran and confirmed it was dry - good news for the Pope, who underwent throat surgery yesterday after being rushed to hospital with breathing problems."
Friday, February 25, 2005
Vision of Saint John Bosco and Pope John Paul II
Thanks to www.gospa.orgfor posting this:
"In a vision, the Lord showed St. John Bosco the dangers threatening the Church. He saw the Church, Ship of Peter, surrounded by a loyal flotilla, locked in mortal combat with superior forces which repeatedly brought it to the edge of annihilation. At a crucial moment, the Holy Father fell mortally wounded. The enemy, sensing victory, closed in for the kill.
Suddenly two columns surged from the depths of the ocean. One was surmounted by a monstrance holding the Blessed Sacrament-:'Salvation of Believers;' the other by a statue of Mary Immaculate - 'The Help of Christians.'
The sight of the columns and the election of a new Pope caused the enemy to unleash a last blistering attack to prevent the Pontiff from anchoring the Church between the two pillars. The assailant's plan failed, and their attack turned into a rout and total disaster.
The Pope and his faithful defenders found safety anchored between the two columns. The winds subsided and the sea grew calm. The victory was complete."
Now think to two things that Pope John Paul II has done since the year 2000: given us new mysteries of the rosary and reawakened devotion to Mary in the process and written a beautiful encyclical on the Eucharist and declared a Year of the Eucharist. This will be his lasting legacy!
"In a vision, the Lord showed St. John Bosco the dangers threatening the Church. He saw the Church, Ship of Peter, surrounded by a loyal flotilla, locked in mortal combat with superior forces which repeatedly brought it to the edge of annihilation. At a crucial moment, the Holy Father fell mortally wounded. The enemy, sensing victory, closed in for the kill.
Suddenly two columns surged from the depths of the ocean. One was surmounted by a monstrance holding the Blessed Sacrament-:'Salvation of Believers;' the other by a statue of Mary Immaculate - 'The Help of Christians.'
The sight of the columns and the election of a new Pope caused the enemy to unleash a last blistering attack to prevent the Pontiff from anchoring the Church between the two pillars. The assailant's plan failed, and their attack turned into a rout and total disaster.
The Pope and his faithful defenders found safety anchored between the two columns. The winds subsided and the sea grew calm. The victory was complete."
Now think to two things that Pope John Paul II has done since the year 2000: given us new mysteries of the rosary and reawakened devotion to Mary in the process and written a beautiful encyclical on the Eucharist and declared a Year of the Eucharist. This will be his lasting legacy!
Pope-"What have they done to me?"
I've heard from a few people I know in Rome who claim that they have talked to "inside" people who are very close to the pope who've said in hushed tones "this is the end." Having said that I doubt they know what they are talking about--only God knows when the "end" of any of us will occur.
From Yahoo! News - Pope Breathing Unassisted, Advised Not to Speak:
"Navarro-Valls said that when he awoke from surgery the Pope asked for paper and wrote jokingly: 'What have they done to me.'
He also scribbled his Latin motto 'Totus Tuus,' (totally yours), a phrase about his devotion to the Mother of God. "
From Yahoo! News - Pope Breathing Unassisted, Advised Not to Speak:
"Navarro-Valls said that when he awoke from surgery the Pope asked for paper and wrote jokingly: 'What have they done to me.'
He also scribbled his Latin motto 'Totus Tuus,' (totally yours), a phrase about his devotion to the Mother of God. "
Blasphemy on Network Television
I didn't see this, but I think Donohue is being a little too forgiving with the priest in question. Even though to the viewer these "real life" episodes can seem natural--there is nothing natural about the lighting and television cameras that follow these people around. Why would a priest allow this at a funeral in the first place? Why wouldn't he take the time to educate himself on the characters and nature of the program? How would he not recognize a "host" from a cracker?
From CATHOLIC LEAGUE for Religious and Civil Rights:
"During the February 22 episode of the NBC-TV sitcom, "Committed," two non-Catholics are mistakenly given Holy Communion at a Catholic funeral Mass. Nate, who is Jewish, and Bowie, a Protestant, don't know what to do with the Eucharist, so they make several failed attempts to get rid of it. For example, they try slipping it into the pocket of a priest, dropping it on a tray of cheese and crackers, etc.
At one point, the priest, who is portrayed as not knowing the difference between the Host and a cracker, goes to grab the "cracker" from a tray of appetizers; he initially balks when he discovers that it is the last one. Then he changes his mind, saying, "Oh, what the hell." By far the most offensive scene occurs when Nate and Bowie accidentally flush what they think is the Host down the toilet. "
From CATHOLIC LEAGUE for Religious and Civil Rights:
"During the February 22 episode of the NBC-TV sitcom, "Committed," two non-Catholics are mistakenly given Holy Communion at a Catholic funeral Mass. Nate, who is Jewish, and Bowie, a Protestant, don't know what to do with the Eucharist, so they make several failed attempts to get rid of it. For example, they try slipping it into the pocket of a priest, dropping it on a tray of cheese and crackers, etc.
At one point, the priest, who is portrayed as not knowing the difference between the Host and a cracker, goes to grab the "cracker" from a tray of appetizers; he initially balks when he discovers that it is the last one. Then he changes his mind, saying, "Oh, what the hell." By far the most offensive scene occurs when Nate and Bowie accidentally flush what they think is the Host down the toilet. "
Meanwhile on the Anglican Front--Schism
From Guardian Unlimited | Special reports | Church faces schism today:
"The worldwide Anglican communion was heading for an unprecedented schism last night as its member churches in the US and Canada were asked to withdraw from intercommunal gatherings following the rift over homosexuality.
In a six-page communique, issued late last night following earlier leaks to the Guardian and other newspapers, the primates of the 78 million-strong Anglican church, attending a meeting in Northern Ireland, agreed to call upon the US and Canadian churches to withdraw voluntarily for at least three years.
Their representatives will not be invited to church meetings for that period. It was unclear whether the churches will be offered a form of associate or lesser status in the communion in the meantime.
The statement said that 'in order to recognise "
"The worldwide Anglican communion was heading for an unprecedented schism last night as its member churches in the US and Canada were asked to withdraw from intercommunal gatherings following the rift over homosexuality.
In a six-page communique, issued late last night following earlier leaks to the Guardian and other newspapers, the primates of the 78 million-strong Anglican church, attending a meeting in Northern Ireland, agreed to call upon the US and Canadian churches to withdraw voluntarily for at least three years.
Their representatives will not be invited to church meetings for that period. It was unclear whether the churches will be offered a form of associate or lesser status in the communion in the meantime.
The statement said that 'in order to recognise "
Vatican Satement on Pope John Paul's Health
From Reuters AlertNet - Vatican statement on Pope John Paul's health:
"'The Holy Father spent a night of tranquil rest. This morning he ate breakfast with a good appetite.
The post-operative situation continues regularly.
He is breathing on his own and cardio-circulatory conditions remain good.
Upon the advice of his doctors, the Pope must not speak for several days so as to favour the recovery of the functions of the larynx.
A new medical bulletin is not foreseen until next Monday, February 28 at 1230 p.m. (1130 GMT)'"
"'The Holy Father spent a night of tranquil rest. This morning he ate breakfast with a good appetite.
The post-operative situation continues regularly.
He is breathing on his own and cardio-circulatory conditions remain good.
Upon the advice of his doctors, the Pope must not speak for several days so as to favour the recovery of the functions of the larynx.
A new medical bulletin is not foreseen until next Monday, February 28 at 1230 p.m. (1130 GMT)'"
Surprise Sale Displaces Small Catholic Parish
Sad to hear, I've been to mass there...
From Surprise sale displaces small Catholic parish:
"Startled church members got only three weeks notice to get out.
'It was just out of the blue -- the church has been sold!' recalled Art Donegan, a member at the Catholic Church of the Holy Apostles who scrambled to rescue religious icons from the bulldozer.
"On the last day, it was announced from the altar that we were not to come back."
The decision to sell the 38-acre church property off Hypoluxo Road west of Military Trail to housing developer Ansca Homes came from a bishop of the New Jersey-based Byzantine rite, which owned the property.
"Holy Apostles is no longer a parish," explained The Rev. Glen Pothier, a priest in the Roman Catholic Church's larger and better-known Latin rite. "The parish has been dissolved."
Pothier is a canon lawyer at the Palm Beach Diocese, which has no jurisdiction over the local Byzantine rite. But because Pothier has been substituting at Mass since the last Holy Apostles priest died three years ago, he jumped in to help the elderly church members of mostly Hungarian, Ukrainian and Russian descent find a temporary location for church services after their ouster.
"
From Surprise sale displaces small Catholic parish:
"Startled church members got only three weeks notice to get out.
'It was just out of the blue -- the church has been sold!' recalled Art Donegan, a member at the Catholic Church of the Holy Apostles who scrambled to rescue religious icons from the bulldozer.
"On the last day, it was announced from the altar that we were not to come back."
The decision to sell the 38-acre church property off Hypoluxo Road west of Military Trail to housing developer Ansca Homes came from a bishop of the New Jersey-based Byzantine rite, which owned the property.
"Holy Apostles is no longer a parish," explained The Rev. Glen Pothier, a priest in the Roman Catholic Church's larger and better-known Latin rite. "The parish has been dissolved."
Pothier is a canon lawyer at the Palm Beach Diocese, which has no jurisdiction over the local Byzantine rite. But because Pothier has been substituting at Mass since the last Holy Apostles priest died three years ago, he jumped in to help the elderly church members of mostly Hungarian, Ukrainian and Russian descent find a temporary location for church services after their ouster.
"
Fr. Rob Headed to Florida
To be with the Schindlers...from Thrown Back:
"As I mentioned last week, I am travelling to Florida. This trip started out as an ordinary visit to see my Mom in Orlando, with a visit to the Schindlers 'on the side'. Now, obviously, I've changed my plans around so as to be with the Schindlers as much as possible. I'll be arriving, perhaps by Providence, just in time for the moment of decision Friday.
I'll be there, on hand with Bob & Mary when the hearing is held. I'll be there, on the 'front line', with those keeping vigil for Terri. And I'll keep you posted as to further developments. "
"As I mentioned last week, I am travelling to Florida. This trip started out as an ordinary visit to see my Mom in Orlando, with a visit to the Schindlers 'on the side'. Now, obviously, I've changed my plans around so as to be with the Schindlers as much as possible. I'll be arriving, perhaps by Providence, just in time for the moment of decision Friday.
I'll be there, on hand with Bob & Mary when the hearing is held. I'll be there, on the 'front line', with those keeping vigil for Terri. And I'll keep you posted as to further developments. "
Thursday, February 24, 2005
Pope May Have Bacterial Pneumonia
From IOL: Pope may have bacterial pneumonia says doctor:
"Ailing Pope John Paul II was rushed to hospital for the second time in a month today and a medical expert suggested he is suffering from bacterial pneumonia -- a serious illness in an 84-year-old man.
A Vatican official said John Paul had the same symptoms of the breathing crisis that sent him to Rome's Gemelli Polyclinic on February 1 but that a medical bulletin would not be released until tomorrow
Medical experts who have not examined the Pope but are familiar with elderly Parkinson's disease patients said his symptoms appeared to be consistent with pneumonia."
"Ailing Pope John Paul II was rushed to hospital for the second time in a month today and a medical expert suggested he is suffering from bacterial pneumonia -- a serious illness in an 84-year-old man.
A Vatican official said John Paul had the same symptoms of the breathing crisis that sent him to Rome's Gemelli Polyclinic on February 1 but that a medical bulletin would not be released until tomorrow
Medical experts who have not examined the Pope but are familiar with elderly Parkinson's disease patients said his symptoms appeared to be consistent with pneumonia."
Doctor's Consider Tracheotomy for Pope
From AFP - The News / wire stories:
"Doctors treating Pope John Paul II at Rome's Gemelli hospital were consulting whether to perform a tracheotomy on the 84-year-old head of the Roman Catholic Church to relieve his breathing difficulties, Italy's ANSA news agency reported.
Doctors treating the pope, who was readmitted to hospital early Thursday, were 'evaluating' whether he should undergo the surgical procedure, which creates a temporary opening in the windpipe to relieve breathing problems, the agency said.
'A tracheotomy runs a serious risk of infection. An aperture is opened in the throat, but by doing this, the throat's natural filter is eliminated,' Professor Giovanni d'Urso, an Italian respiratory specialist, told RAI state television.
RAI, citing unnamed medical sources, earlier reported that the pope -- who suffers from Parkinson's disease -- was breathing with the aid of an oxygen mask. "
"Doctors treating Pope John Paul II at Rome's Gemelli hospital were consulting whether to perform a tracheotomy on the 84-year-old head of the Roman Catholic Church to relieve his breathing difficulties, Italy's ANSA news agency reported.
Doctors treating the pope, who was readmitted to hospital early Thursday, were 'evaluating' whether he should undergo the surgical procedure, which creates a temporary opening in the windpipe to relieve breathing problems, the agency said.
'A tracheotomy runs a serious risk of infection. An aperture is opened in the throat, but by doing this, the throat's natural filter is eliminated,' Professor Giovanni d'Urso, an Italian respiratory specialist, told RAI state television.
RAI, citing unnamed medical sources, earlier reported that the pope -- who suffers from Parkinson's disease -- was breathing with the aid of an oxygen mask. "
In Schiavo Case State of Florida Seeks Delay to Probe Abuse Allegations
Finally...
From In Schiavo Case, Gov. Bush Seeks Delay to Probe Abuse Allegations (washingtonpost.com):
"The administration of Gov. Jeb Bush, already forcefully rebuked by the Florida Supreme Court for trying to override judicial orders and block the removal of a brain-damaged woman's feeding tubes, launched itself back into the case Wednesday by asking for a delay to investigate abuse allegations.
The surprise request by Florida's Department of Children and Families to intervene in the case of Terri Schiavo stirred an already emotional atmosphere. A woman broke with courtroom decorum and called out 'Amen' when an attorney for Schiavo's parents, who are trying to stop her husband from removing the feeding tubes, announced in Pinellas County Circuit Court that the department has asked for a delay. "
From In Schiavo Case, Gov. Bush Seeks Delay to Probe Abuse Allegations (washingtonpost.com):
"The administration of Gov. Jeb Bush, already forcefully rebuked by the Florida Supreme Court for trying to override judicial orders and block the removal of a brain-damaged woman's feeding tubes, launched itself back into the case Wednesday by asking for a delay to investigate abuse allegations.
The surprise request by Florida's Department of Children and Families to intervene in the case of Terri Schiavo stirred an already emotional atmosphere. A woman broke with courtroom decorum and called out 'Amen' when an attorney for Schiavo's parents, who are trying to stop her husband from removing the feeding tubes, announced in Pinellas County Circuit Court that the department has asked for a delay. "
Pope John Paul II Rushed to the Hospital
I had an intuition this morning while running--where the words "Pope John Paul" came to me. About twenty minutes later in my car on the way to work I heard this news...
From Guardian Unlimited | World Latest | Pope John Paul II Rushed to the Hospital:
"Pope John Paul II was rushed to the hospital in an ambulance Thursday suffering from a relapse of the flu, a fever and congestion, the Vatican said, a day after the pontiff made his longest public appearance since being discharged from the clinic two weeks ago.
A Vatican official said on condition of anonymity that the 84-year-old pontiff had the same symptoms of the breathing crisis that sent him to Gemelli Polyclinic on Feb. 1.
The Vatican said the pope was taken to the clinic at 10:45 a.m. It played down the seriousness of the hospitalization, saying a patient of the pope's age is always at risk from the flu. Officials speaking on condition of anonymity said the pope had a fever and congestion. "
From Guardian Unlimited | World Latest | Pope John Paul II Rushed to the Hospital:
"Pope John Paul II was rushed to the hospital in an ambulance Thursday suffering from a relapse of the flu, a fever and congestion, the Vatican said, a day after the pontiff made his longest public appearance since being discharged from the clinic two weeks ago.
A Vatican official said on condition of anonymity that the 84-year-old pontiff had the same symptoms of the breathing crisis that sent him to Gemelli Polyclinic on Feb. 1.
The Vatican said the pope was taken to the clinic at 10:45 a.m. It played down the seriousness of the hospitalization, saying a patient of the pope's age is always at risk from the flu. Officials speaking on condition of anonymity said the pope had a fever and congestion. "
Wednesday, February 23, 2005
Continue to Pray for Terri
What I've noticed is how one sided the press reports her condition and the whole issue as "right to die" when in reality it is "right to live."
The parents should have been given "guardian" status over her years ago, the husband clearly has moved on with his life and has left her a long time ago. His inability to give custody of her to the parents seems criminal to me.
From ABC News: Schiavo Husband, Parents to Argue in Court:
"On Wednesday, Greer is to hear the latest arguments from Schiavo's parents that their son-in-law, Michael, is not fit to be his wife's guardian.
George Felos, Michael Schiavo's attorney, said, 'as soon as he's legally authorized, he will discontinue artificial life support.' It would likely take several days for Terri Schiavo to die if the tube is pulled.
Doctors have ruled that Terri Schiavo is in a persistent vegetative state with no hope for recovery, and would live no more than a week or two without getting food and water through the tube inserted into her abdomen.
Her parents have countered with other medical opinions that the 41-year-old woman who appears to cry, laugh and react to her family might improve with rehabilitation. "
The parents should have been given "guardian" status over her years ago, the husband clearly has moved on with his life and has left her a long time ago. His inability to give custody of her to the parents seems criminal to me.
From ABC News: Schiavo Husband, Parents to Argue in Court:
"On Wednesday, Greer is to hear the latest arguments from Schiavo's parents that their son-in-law, Michael, is not fit to be his wife's guardian.
George Felos, Michael Schiavo's attorney, said, 'as soon as he's legally authorized, he will discontinue artificial life support.' It would likely take several days for Terri Schiavo to die if the tube is pulled.
Doctors have ruled that Terri Schiavo is in a persistent vegetative state with no hope for recovery, and would live no more than a week or two without getting food and water through the tube inserted into her abdomen.
Her parents have countered with other medical opinions that the 41-year-old woman who appears to cry, laugh and react to her family might improve with rehabilitation. "
Tuesday, February 22, 2005
Emergency Stay Issued
Small victory, continue to pray...
From Yahoo! News - Emergency Stay Issued in Right-To-Die Case:
"The case of a severely brain-damaged woman remained locked in a legal stalemate Tuesday after an appeals court cleared the way for her husband to remove her feeding tube only to see a judge promptly block the removal for at least another day. "
From Yahoo! News - Emergency Stay Issued in Right-To-Die Case:
"The case of a severely brain-damaged woman remained locked in a legal stalemate Tuesday after an appeals court cleared the way for her husband to remove her feeding tube only to see a judge promptly block the removal for at least another day. "
Founder of Communion and Liberation Dies
From the VIS:
Joaquin Navarro-Valls, director of the Holy See Press Office, early this afternoon, released a declaration to journalists stating: "The funeral of Msgr. Luigi Giussani, founder of the ecclesial movement Communion and Liberation, who died this morning, will take place on Thursday, February 24 at 3 p.m. in the Duomo of Milan. Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, will preside at the Mass in the name of the Holy Father.
Joaquin Navarro-Valls, director of the Holy See Press Office, early this afternoon, released a declaration to journalists stating: "The funeral of Msgr. Luigi Giussani, founder of the ecclesial movement Communion and Liberation, who died this morning, will take place on Thursday, February 24 at 3 p.m. in the Duomo of Milan. Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, will preside at the Mass in the name of the Holy Father.
Prayers Needed for Terri Schiavo
Pray for a miracle!
From Tampabay: Schiavo case: 11th hour, again:
" A lawyer for Terri Schiavo's husband said Monday the feeding tube that has kept the brain-damaged woman alive for 15 years will be removed at 1 p.m. today - unless a court stops him.
But after a chaotic round of legal jousting Monday, the only certainty by day's end was uncertainty, and no one knows if a court will step in to prevent an act that could end Schiavo's life within two weeks.
David Gibbs III, an attorney representing Schiavo's parents, said he is still optimistic he will find a way to thwart efforts to end Schiavo's life and saw no need for the courts to rush to do it.
Bob and Mary Schindler have 'watched many miracles occur on behalf of their daughter, Terri,' Gibbs said. 'They continue to pray that there will be another miracle. ... We don't need to rush to Terri's death.'"
From Tampabay: Schiavo case: 11th hour, again:
" A lawyer for Terri Schiavo's husband said Monday the feeding tube that has kept the brain-damaged woman alive for 15 years will be removed at 1 p.m. today - unless a court stops him.
But after a chaotic round of legal jousting Monday, the only certainty by day's end was uncertainty, and no one knows if a court will step in to prevent an act that could end Schiavo's life within two weeks.
David Gibbs III, an attorney representing Schiavo's parents, said he is still optimistic he will find a way to thwart efforts to end Schiavo's life and saw no need for the courts to rush to do it.
Bob and Mary Schindler have 'watched many miracles occur on behalf of their daughter, Terri,' Gibbs said. 'They continue to pray that there will be another miracle. ... We don't need to rush to Terri's death.'"
Dark Secrets of Abuse in Toledo
From toledoblade.com:
"The search of the decrepit, wood structure last year was a sign the investigation of the Rev. Gerald Robinson was moving beyond a murder case.
No longer was the probe focusing solely on the man accused of killing Sister Margaret Ann Pahl, but was expanding into a new direction: accusations that children were molested and raped by priests in ritual services.
For the past year, police have embarked on one of the most unusual investigations in the department's history, spurred by leads emerging after the priest's arrest in April for the killing in the Mercy Hospital chapel more than 24 years ago.
They have looked for evidence in church attics and basements and have consulted with religious experts on subversive groups and church history. They have even interviewed the founder of a secret fraternity whose members dressed in nuns' clothing."
"The search of the decrepit, wood structure last year was a sign the investigation of the Rev. Gerald Robinson was moving beyond a murder case.
No longer was the probe focusing solely on the man accused of killing Sister Margaret Ann Pahl, but was expanding into a new direction: accusations that children were molested and raped by priests in ritual services.
For the past year, police have embarked on one of the most unusual investigations in the department's history, spurred by leads emerging after the priest's arrest in April for the killing in the Mercy Hospital chapel more than 24 years ago.
They have looked for evidence in church attics and basements and have consulted with religious experts on subversive groups and church history. They have even interviewed the founder of a secret fraternity whose members dressed in nuns' clothing."
Monday, February 21, 2005
The National Catholic Register
Thanks to the The National Catholic Register:
"Weekly Book Pick: For launching into Lent, Clare Siobhan recommends The Power of the Cross: Applying the Passion of Christ to Your Life by Michael Dubruiel."
"Weekly Book Pick: For launching into Lent, Clare Siobhan recommends The Power of the Cross: Applying the Passion of Christ to Your Life by Michael Dubruiel."
Be A Part of Father Benedict Live Audience...
From Father Benedict at the CFR Site:
"Can I encourage you this Lent to read the bible, especially the New Testament? There are a couple of very good books out to help you read the bible. The one I'm using on EWTN is the Everything Bible by Fr. John Trigilio and Fr. Kenneth Brighenti. It will guide you very well through the reading of the bible and it is written not just for Catholics but for all Christians. There is another very good book called The How To Book of the Bible by Karl Schultz published by Our Sunday Visitor. Both books are easily available and not expensive. If you wish to order them you can order them through the EWTN Religious Catalogue. If you have a chance I'd be grateful if you called in some afternoon or evening to be part of our EWTN broadcast and ask questions on the air. If you live very close to St. Joseph's Seminary in Yonkers you can get hold of June, my secretary at 914-632-3743 and she will let you know when you could sit in as one of the members of the audience. We don't have a large audience but they're always very bright and cheerful if you've had a chance to look at our program. God bless and please keep this work in your prayers."
"Can I encourage you this Lent to read the bible, especially the New Testament? There are a couple of very good books out to help you read the bible. The one I'm using on EWTN is the Everything Bible by Fr. John Trigilio and Fr. Kenneth Brighenti. It will guide you very well through the reading of the bible and it is written not just for Catholics but for all Christians. There is another very good book called The How To Book of the Bible by Karl Schultz published by Our Sunday Visitor. Both books are easily available and not expensive. If you wish to order them you can order them through the EWTN Religious Catalogue. If you have a chance I'd be grateful if you called in some afternoon or evening to be part of our EWTN broadcast and ask questions on the air. If you live very close to St. Joseph's Seminary in Yonkers you can get hold of June, my secretary at 914-632-3743 and she will let you know when you could sit in as one of the members of the audience. We don't have a large audience but they're always very bright and cheerful if you've had a chance to look at our program. God bless and please keep this work in your prayers."
The Lavender Mafia
A new Michael S. Rose book coming in 2006...from Hollywood, real-life euthanasia:
"Spence Publishing announced it had acquired the rights to publish Michael S. Rose's The Lavender Mafia, according to a report in 'Publishers Marketplace.' Author of Goodbye! Good Men, Michael S. Rose's The Lavender Mafia is an account of the inner workings of a far-reaching network of gay clerics and their allies in the Catholic Church that has promoted its own, intimidated its enemies, and paved the way for the current sex abuse scandals. Spence Publishing has set spring of 2006 as the release date."
"Spence Publishing announced it had acquired the rights to publish Michael S. Rose's The Lavender Mafia, according to a report in 'Publishers Marketplace.' Author of Goodbye! Good Men, Michael S. Rose's The Lavender Mafia is an account of the inner workings of a far-reaching network of gay clerics and their allies in the Catholic Church that has promoted its own, intimidated its enemies, and paved the way for the current sex abuse scandals. Spence Publishing has set spring of 2006 as the release date."
Saturday, February 19, 2005
Make an Effort to Save Terri Schiavo
Tons of emial contacts, ways that you can help found here...THIS MAY BE OUR LAST CHANCE TO SAVE TERRI! PLEASE HELP!. Take a moment to do something!
Plus pray!
I would ask the special intercession of Virginia Cyr who I have written about on this blog. Solanus Casey and Fulton Sheen.
Plus pray!
I would ask the special intercession of Virginia Cyr who I have written about on this blog. Solanus Casey and Fulton Sheen.
Tuesday, February 15, 2005
Old Testament of Orthodox Study Bible to be Released
From Blogodoxy: For Those Of You Into Bible-Reading...:
"The long-awaited Old Testament translation of the Orthodox Study Bible is coming out this summer (July I believe). This includes the Apocryphal books, and will be added to the Psalms and New Testament to make it complete. These translations are coming from the Septuagint, which was the Greek version that was in use during Christ's time, rather than from the Masoretic Hebrew texts that date from the 9th century A.D, which the King James and other English versions are translated from.
"The long-awaited Old Testament translation of the Orthodox Study Bible is coming out this summer (July I believe). This includes the Apocryphal books, and will be added to the Psalms and New Testament to make it complete. These translations are coming from the Septuagint, which was the Greek version that was in use during Christ's time, rather than from the Masoretic Hebrew texts that date from the 9th century A.D, which the King James and other English versions are translated from.
Pope Saddened by Death of Sr. Lucia
From Zenit News Agency - The World Seen From Rome:
" The news of Sister Lucia's death, the last living witness of the Virgin Mary's apparitions in Fatima, Portugal, is 'very sad' for John Paul II, says a Vatican prefect.
'We know very well the profound friendship that existed' between the nun and the Pope, said Portuguese Cardinal Jos? Saraiva Martins, prefect of the Congregation for Sainthood Causes, in a report by the Catholic agency Ecclesia. The Holy Father is currently on a spiritual retreat at the Vatican.
The cardinal was commenting on the nun's death, which occurred Sunday in the convent of Coimbra. Sister Maria Lucia of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart was 97.
'They met several times, and for John Paul II they were always moments of great spirituality,' the cardinal said. 'The Pope has always said that the Virgin Mary saved him from the attack in St. Peter's Square on May 13, 1981. And Fatima and the little shepherds have a very special place in his heart.' "
" The news of Sister Lucia's death, the last living witness of the Virgin Mary's apparitions in Fatima, Portugal, is 'very sad' for John Paul II, says a Vatican prefect.
'We know very well the profound friendship that existed' between the nun and the Pope, said Portuguese Cardinal Jos? Saraiva Martins, prefect of the Congregation for Sainthood Causes, in a report by the Catholic agency Ecclesia. The Holy Father is currently on a spiritual retreat at the Vatican.
The cardinal was commenting on the nun's death, which occurred Sunday in the convent of Coimbra. Sister Maria Lucia of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart was 97.
'They met several times, and for John Paul II they were always moments of great spirituality,' the cardinal said. 'The Pope has always said that the Virgin Mary saved him from the attack in St. Peter's Square on May 13, 1981. And Fatima and the little shepherds have a very special place in his heart.' "
Monday, February 14, 2005
St Valentine remembered
BBC News | UK | St Valentine remembered:
"But friars at the church of Blessed St John Duns Scotus in Glasgow's Gorbals area have held a special Valentine's service on Sunday, putting on display what are thought to be the martyr's bones.
And they are hoping the relics could help make Glasgow Europe's city of love.
The remains spent more than a century in a side aisle of St Francis' Church, Glasgow and for the last six years they were kept in a wooden casket in a cardboard box, on a wardrobe in a nearby chapel house.
The Franciscan friars were asked in 1868 to look after the remains by a French family who had owned other religious relics.
Confusion surrounds exactly who St Valentine was. According to the Catholic Encyclopaedia, at least three Saint Valentines are mentioned in the early martyrologies under the date of 14 February. One is described as a priest at Rome, another as a Bishop of Interamna (now Terni in Italy) and the other lived and died in Africa."
"But friars at the church of Blessed St John Duns Scotus in Glasgow's Gorbals area have held a special Valentine's service on Sunday, putting on display what are thought to be the martyr's bones.
And they are hoping the relics could help make Glasgow Europe's city of love.
The remains spent more than a century in a side aisle of St Francis' Church, Glasgow and for the last six years they were kept in a wooden casket in a cardboard box, on a wardrobe in a nearby chapel house.
The Franciscan friars were asked in 1868 to look after the remains by a French family who had owned other religious relics.
Confusion surrounds exactly who St Valentine was. According to the Catholic Encyclopaedia, at least three Saint Valentines are mentioned in the early martyrologies under the date of 14 February. One is described as a priest at Rome, another as a Bishop of Interamna (now Terni in Italy) and the other lived and died in Africa."
A Great Sermon on Stewardship
By Gregory Nazianzen
From Universalis: Office of Readings:
"Recognise to whom you owe the fact that you exist, that you breathe, that you understand, that you are wise, and, above all, that you know God and hope for the kingdom of heaven and the vision of glory, now darkly as in a mirror but then with greater fullness and purity. You have been made a son of God, co-heir with Christ. Where did you get all this, and from whom?
Let me turn to what is of less importance: the visible world around us. What benefactor has enabled you to look out upon the beauty of the sky, the sun in its course, the circle of the moon, the countless number of stars, with the harmony and order that are theirs, like the music of a harp? Who has blessed you with rain, with the art of husbandry, with different kinds of food, with the arts, with houses, with laws, with states, with a life of humanity and culture, with friendship and the easy familiarity of kinship?
Who has given you dominion over animals, those that are tame and those that provide you with food? Who has made you lord and master of everything on earth? In short, who has endowed you with all that makes man superior to all other living creatures?
Is it not God who asks you now in your turn to show yourself generous above all other creatures and for the sake of all other creatures? Because we have received from him so many wonderful gifts, will we not be ashamed to refuse him this one thing only, our generosity? Though he is God and Lord he is not afraid to be known as our Father. Shall we for our part repudiate those who are our kith and kin?
Brethren and friends, let us never allow ourselves to misuse what has been given us by God's gift. If we do, we shall hear Saint Peter say: Be ashamed of yourselves for holding on to what belongs to someone else. Resolve to imitate God's justice, and no one will be poor."
From Universalis: Office of Readings:
"Recognise to whom you owe the fact that you exist, that you breathe, that you understand, that you are wise, and, above all, that you know God and hope for the kingdom of heaven and the vision of glory, now darkly as in a mirror but then with greater fullness and purity. You have been made a son of God, co-heir with Christ. Where did you get all this, and from whom?
Let me turn to what is of less importance: the visible world around us. What benefactor has enabled you to look out upon the beauty of the sky, the sun in its course, the circle of the moon, the countless number of stars, with the harmony and order that are theirs, like the music of a harp? Who has blessed you with rain, with the art of husbandry, with different kinds of food, with the arts, with houses, with laws, with states, with a life of humanity and culture, with friendship and the easy familiarity of kinship?
Who has given you dominion over animals, those that are tame and those that provide you with food? Who has made you lord and master of everything on earth? In short, who has endowed you with all that makes man superior to all other living creatures?
Is it not God who asks you now in your turn to show yourself generous above all other creatures and for the sake of all other creatures? Because we have received from him so many wonderful gifts, will we not be ashamed to refuse him this one thing only, our generosity? Though he is God and Lord he is not afraid to be known as our Father. Shall we for our part repudiate those who are our kith and kin?
Brethren and friends, let us never allow ourselves to misuse what has been given us by God's gift. If we do, we shall hear Saint Peter say: Be ashamed of yourselves for holding on to what belongs to someone else. Resolve to imitate God's justice, and no one will be poor."
Father Benedict on the Pope's Example
From CFR Page:
"There is hardly a single leader still on the scene who was within office when Pope John Paul became pope. He still takes his apostolic mandate as central, providential call for himself and he accepts this heavy cross to bear.
Each one of us has our cross. For some it's not so heavy, but it will be. Everyone sooner or later goes to Calvary and some people go several times. The important thing is not to look for a cross, but to carry the one you are given, not to become impatient, not to become bitter, not to say why me. Look at your life, you have a cross, you probably have several of them. Don't spend your time lamenting the fact that you have them, but pick them up and carry them. You might be tempted to say anything but this. That's a bad idea. Say, this is what I was given. The way to get better is to get better and the way to carry the cross is to pick it up and carry it. That's the only way that makes sense. Right now in the church we have this magnificent symbol of courage, faith, dedication and complete reliance on God. Who cares what any of the members of the peanut gallery have to say? They should be brought to silence by the shadow of this great and holy man carrying his cross."
"There is hardly a single leader still on the scene who was within office when Pope John Paul became pope. He still takes his apostolic mandate as central, providential call for himself and he accepts this heavy cross to bear.
Each one of us has our cross. For some it's not so heavy, but it will be. Everyone sooner or later goes to Calvary and some people go several times. The important thing is not to look for a cross, but to carry the one you are given, not to become impatient, not to become bitter, not to say why me. Look at your life, you have a cross, you probably have several of them. Don't spend your time lamenting the fact that you have them, but pick them up and carry them. You might be tempted to say anything but this. That's a bad idea. Say, this is what I was given. The way to get better is to get better and the way to carry the cross is to pick it up and carry it. That's the only way that makes sense. Right now in the church we have this magnificent symbol of courage, faith, dedication and complete reliance on God. Who cares what any of the members of the peanut gallery have to say? They should be brought to silence by the shadow of this great and holy man carrying his cross."
St. Louis Archbishop "There is going to be a persecution..."
From St. Louis Archbishop Warns of Upcoming "Persecution" over Abortion and Homosexuality:
" In an interview with LifeSiteNews.com, St. Louis Archbishop Raymond Burke said that as Catholics continue to speak out on life and family issues they will face persecution. "There is going to be a persecution with regard to this, that's clear," said the Archbishop.
The media has painted the St. Louis church leader as a mean-spirited bully, yet in person he is soft-spoken and kind with a keen sense of the truth and an urgency to convey it for the salvation of souls. Rather than using high-sounding platitudes which coast over the heads of many, Archbishop Burke speaks plainly the teaching of the Church on matters of central importance, without fear of being labeled politically incorrect."
" In an interview with LifeSiteNews.com, St. Louis Archbishop Raymond Burke said that as Catholics continue to speak out on life and family issues they will face persecution. "There is going to be a persecution with regard to this, that's clear," said the Archbishop.
The media has painted the St. Louis church leader as a mean-spirited bully, yet in person he is soft-spoken and kind with a keen sense of the truth and an urgency to convey it for the salvation of souls. Rather than using high-sounding platitudes which coast over the heads of many, Archbishop Burke speaks plainly the teaching of the Church on matters of central importance, without fear of being labeled politically incorrect."
Sunday, February 13, 2005
Thanks to All at Fatima Retreat House in Indianapolis
Thanks to all who attended the retreat I presented at Fatima Retreat House this weekend. A group of very special people, all intent on growing spiritually and the prayer together empowered me. The retreat staff was great too providing us with a great environment for special time with God.
Given the fact that Sister Lucia, one of the original Fatima seers died on the last day of the retreat--being at Fatima and praying the rosary in front of the image of Our Lady of Fatima will be something that I will remember for a long time.
Given the fact that Sister Lucia, one of the original Fatima seers died on the last day of the retreat--being at Fatima and praying the rosary in front of the image of Our Lady of Fatima will be something that I will remember for a long time.
The Children of Fatima--Sister Lucia Dies
From CBC News: Witness to Fatima apparition dies at 97:
"The young Portuguese girl who witnessed several apparitions of the Virgin Mary in the town of Fatima back in 1917 has died at the age of 97, reported Portuguese media Sunday.
Sister Lucia Marto, a Roman Catholic nun, had been ill for several months. She died at the Convent of Carmelita near Lisbon, say radio reports.
She and her two cousins, Jacinta and Francisco, claimed that Mary appeared before them on six occasions predicting major world events such as world wars and the 1981 attempted assassination of Pope John Paul."
Friday, February 11, 2005
Less Violent "Passion" to Hit Theaters for Holy Week This Year
From Gibson softens 'Passion' for Easter release. 11/02/2005. ABC News Online:
"Mel Gibson will release a new, low-violence version of his 2004 mega-hit The Passion of the Christ next month, Daily Variety reports.
The star, dubbed Hollywood's most powerful figure since the huge success of the low-budget, graphically gory film, is trimming five to six minutes of violent scenes ahead of the film's March 11 reappearance on United States screens.
The original film raked in $474 million in its North American run that began on Ash Wednesday one year ago.
But Gibson noted that many people had avoided the film because of its grisly portrayal of Jesus Christ being tortured by Roman troops.
'There has been quite a demand by the religious community to bring [the film] back for Easter,' Bruce Davey, Gibson's partner at Icon Productions, told Variety.
'And there has been a lot of discussion about the violence. Mel wanted to try and accommodate those people by making a version that is softer and gentler.
The film, The Passion Recut, will be beamed onto 500 to 750 screens by distributor Newmarket Films, Variety said, adding that the new versions would not be lumbered with an audience age restriction.
The new less violent version of the film goes easier on the brutal details of the last days of Christ."
"Mel Gibson will release a new, low-violence version of his 2004 mega-hit The Passion of the Christ next month, Daily Variety reports.
The star, dubbed Hollywood's most powerful figure since the huge success of the low-budget, graphically gory film, is trimming five to six minutes of violent scenes ahead of the film's March 11 reappearance on United States screens.
The original film raked in $474 million in its North American run that began on Ash Wednesday one year ago.
But Gibson noted that many people had avoided the film because of its grisly portrayal of Jesus Christ being tortured by Roman troops.
'There has been quite a demand by the religious community to bring [the film] back for Easter,' Bruce Davey, Gibson's partner at Icon Productions, told Variety.
'And there has been a lot of discussion about the violence. Mel wanted to try and accommodate those people by making a version that is softer and gentler.
The film, The Passion Recut, will be beamed onto 500 to 750 screens by distributor Newmarket Films, Variety said, adding that the new versions would not be lumbered with an audience age restriction.
The new less violent version of the film goes easier on the brutal details of the last days of Christ."
Thursday, February 10, 2005
Forty Days of Lent
Sunday's do count, in fact the first "traditional" day of Lent is the First Sunday of Lent--forty days later is Holy Thursday which is still a Lenten day until sundown.
From Another View of What Lent Means:
"When does Lent begin and end?
The observation of Lent begins on the first Sunday after Ash Wednesday (the first day we are sure to gather together), and ends at sundown, Holy Thursday, although the season starts on Ash Wednesday. So strictly speaking, what we call Lent is more than 40 days. Please see the documents quoted above for more information."
From Another View of What Lent Means:
"When does Lent begin and end?
The observation of Lent begins on the first Sunday after Ash Wednesday (the first day we are sure to gather together), and ends at sundown, Holy Thursday, although the season starts on Ash Wednesday. So strictly speaking, what we call Lent is more than 40 days. Please see the documents quoted above for more information."
Pope to Leave Hospital Today
From Yahoo! News - Vatican: Pope to Leave Hospital Today:
"Papal spokesman Joaquin Navarro-Valls said the 84-year-old pontiff was 'cured' of the breathing crisis that led to his urgent hospitalization Feb. 1 at Rome's Gemelli Polyclinic and that his general condition was continuing to improve.
Navarro-Valls said a battery of tests including a CT scan had 'excluded other pathologies,' meaning it ruled out any new illnesses.
He said John Paul would return later Thursday to his apartment in the Vatican's Apostolic Palace, which would coincide with a traditional Lenten period of spiritual reflection for the pontiff with no public ceremonies. That way, he could try to regain strength before Easter without having to cancel anything. "
"Papal spokesman Joaquin Navarro-Valls said the 84-year-old pontiff was 'cured' of the breathing crisis that led to his urgent hospitalization Feb. 1 at Rome's Gemelli Polyclinic and that his general condition was continuing to improve.
Navarro-Valls said a battery of tests including a CT scan had 'excluded other pathologies,' meaning it ruled out any new illnesses.
He said John Paul would return later Thursday to his apartment in the Vatican's Apostolic Palace, which would coincide with a traditional Lenten period of spiritual reflection for the pontiff with no public ceremonies. That way, he could try to regain strength before Easter without having to cancel anything. "
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