The headline oversells the story... but you've got to admit that this fairly typical of the direction that society is heading these days.
Teacher bans ‘bless you’ for sneezing kids - The Globe and Mail
Reflections from the pastoral ministry of an Evangelical Catholic Priest.
30 September, 2011
29 September, 2011
Gotta have faith: Findings show religion still vital to Canadians
Click on the link to read the rest of the story from the Ottawa Citizen.You could call it religion's hallelujah.Though certain faiths remain in dire straits, a new report finds rumours of the death of Canadian churches to be greatly exaggerated -- particularly when it comes to Catholic and evangelical denominations, which are actually flourishing in light of recent immigration patterns."Most observers assumed that religion in Canada would follow the European pattern of secularization, where religion would be practised by fewer and fewer people over time and eventually border on being extinct," says sociologist Reginald Bibby, a leading expert on religious life in Canada.
Gotta have faith: Findings show religion still vital to Canadians
Peter Seewald: The Pope triumphed over the media war in Germany :: Catholic News Agency (CNA)
"In the interview, Seewald, author of “Light of the World,” described the Pope’s visit as “a small miracle” because “shortly before there was a very aggressive, anti-clerical assault by the media.” “All of this brings to mind George Orwell’s ‘1984,’ in which an imaginary enemy, a nightmare, is created in order to scare people.” “And yet,” Seewald noted, “despite all of this incredible effort by the media, an innumerable amount of people stood up and refused to be deceived.”Click on the link to read the entire article.
“They said the Germans would turn their backs on him and all kinds of other stupidities. There appears to be nothing more offensive in our times than being Catholic. As the magazine ‘Stern’ said, ‘The brief euphoria at the outset was followed by an irreparable distancing between the majority of Germans and their fellow countryman.’ It’s as if they were saying that everything would be wonderful and orderly in the world if the Vatican just ceased to exist.”
However, Seewald continued, “We were all witnesses to something much greater. Where were all the masses of critics and protesters? They never showed up. And yet 350,000 people made great sacrifices in order to personally listen to the Pope and to attend Mass with him. Millions watched on television. The Pope’s books are selling faster than ever … And undoubtedly never before has so much intelligence, wisdom and truth, so much of what is fundamental, been heard in Germany.”
Peter Seewald: The Pope triumphed over the media war in Germany :: Catholic News Agency (CNA)
"The Smile of God" - Remembering Pope John Paul I
Here's an article from Rocco Palma on the Pope that brought me back to the practice of the faith: John Paul I.
I had been a non-practicing Catholic for years. The Church, under the leadership of Pope Paul VI seemed to be an irrelevant institution in my opinion back then. Too concerned with legalisms and irrelevancies to be of any relevance to the modern world. Then came this holy man, Cardinal Luciani who took the name of his two immediate predecessors, John XXIII and Paul VI and melded them together into one: Pope John Paul.
In the few short days of his pontificate, he shattered the mold of what a Pope was supposed to be. He brushed aside many of the accouterments of prestige and seemed to be a man who found it more important to explain the truths of the Church in the language of the common man. Let me offer one example... the case of Louise Brown, the worlds first 'test-tube' baby. When she was born, Pope JPI sent roses to her parents to celebrate her arrival. When reporters asked him if this was the Church giving its approval to IVF he demurred and said that the theologians in time would help to determine the morality of the technology and that the Church would make clear her stance at that time. In sending the flowers, he said he was simply celebrating with Louise's parents that God had granted them the gift of a lovely daughter when they thought it was never going to happen. He affirmed the goodness of life and love, the very essence of God.
I was hooked from that point on.... and the rest (as they say) is history, eventually leading to my discovery of my vocation and my ordination as a Catholic priest.
Pope John Paul I... rest in peace... and thank you for being such a powerful gift of God for me.
Whispers in the Loggia: "The Smile of God"
I had been a non-practicing Catholic for years. The Church, under the leadership of Pope Paul VI seemed to be an irrelevant institution in my opinion back then. Too concerned with legalisms and irrelevancies to be of any relevance to the modern world. Then came this holy man, Cardinal Luciani who took the name of his two immediate predecessors, John XXIII and Paul VI and melded them together into one: Pope John Paul.
In the few short days of his pontificate, he shattered the mold of what a Pope was supposed to be. He brushed aside many of the accouterments of prestige and seemed to be a man who found it more important to explain the truths of the Church in the language of the common man. Let me offer one example... the case of Louise Brown, the worlds first 'test-tube' baby. When she was born, Pope JPI sent roses to her parents to celebrate her arrival. When reporters asked him if this was the Church giving its approval to IVF he demurred and said that the theologians in time would help to determine the morality of the technology and that the Church would make clear her stance at that time. In sending the flowers, he said he was simply celebrating with Louise's parents that God had granted them the gift of a lovely daughter when they thought it was never going to happen. He affirmed the goodness of life and love, the very essence of God.
I was hooked from that point on.... and the rest (as they say) is history, eventually leading to my discovery of my vocation and my ordination as a Catholic priest.
Pope John Paul I... rest in peace... and thank you for being such a powerful gift of God for me.
Whispers in the Loggia: "The Smile of God"
28 September, 2011
9/11, Benedict XVI and Regensburg | First Things
Here is an excellent summary, written by George Weigel on the challenge posed to the Islam by the west in the 21st century. In light of the threatened execution of a Christian convert pastor in Iran, the challenge seems all the more relevant today than when B16 issued it five years ago.
9/11, Benedict XVI and Regensburg | First Things
9/11, Benedict XVI and Regensburg | First Things
Baby Joseph dies at 18 months | News | National Post
Rest in Peace Joseph. You journey through life was filled with love. May you now enjoy the gift of living in God's perfect love as you await your family to join you in paradise.
Baby Joseph dies at 18 months | News | National Post
The Probability of You Existing at All is Almost NON-Existent. A Brief Reflection on the Contingency of our Being and the Glory of God, Based on a Recent Math Article. | Archdiocese of Washington
I've been using this same argument with every couple that brings a child to the Church for baptism. When we consider that the statistical odds of our coming to exist are far less than winning the Lotto 6/49, the birth of a child suddenly is seen in a different light... a prize of great value! I hope that if parents can keep that thought in their minds as they raise a child that they might understand just what a treasure is entrusted to them to love and care for.

The Probability of You Existing at All is Almost NON-Existent. A Brief Reflection on the Contingency of our Being and the Glory of God, Based on a Recent Math Article. | Archdiocese of Washington

The Probability of You Existing at All is Almost NON-Existent. A Brief Reflection on the Contingency of our Being and the Glory of God, Based on a Recent Math Article. | Archdiocese of Washington
‘It’s OK to kill a baby in the womb, when..?’ 180 movie shows pro-abortion to pro-life conversions | LifeSiteNews.com
This movie (180) is 33 minutes long and it is difficult to watch. It's really only peripherally connected to abortion. To me, it seems more a cry to remember our history so that we do not repeat the failures of the last century.
If you have the time, it's worth watching.
‘It’s OK to kill a baby in the womb, when..?’ 180 movie shows pro-abortion to pro-life conversions | LifeSiteNews.com
If you have the time, it's worth watching.
‘It’s OK to kill a baby in the womb, when..?’ 180 movie shows pro-abortion to pro-life conversions | LifeSiteNews.com
27 September, 2011
An Iranian Christian pastor faces the death penalty for what crime? Converting from Islam to Christianity!
If you believe that this is wrong, contact the Iranian embassy where you live and express your outrage. Here is the contact information for the Embassy in Canada:
Press releases - Christian Solidarity Worldwide
Embassy AddressEmbassy of I.R. of IranConsulate Address Embassy of I.R. of Iran ( Consulate Section ) |
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Press releases - Christian Solidarity Worldwide
From The Catholic League: SINEAD O’CONNOR—”KILL THE POPE” | Fr. Z's Blog – What Does The Prayer Really Say?
Fascinating! If someone publicly calls for the killing of a civil leader, they can be charged. I wonder if the same is true if someone publicly calls for the death of a religious figure like the Pope? Want to bet the answer is a resounding 'NO!' ???
From The Catholic League: SINEAD O’CONNOR—”KILL THE POPE” | Fr. Z's Blog – What Does The Prayer Really Say?
From The Catholic League: SINEAD O’CONNOR—”KILL THE POPE” | Fr. Z's Blog – What Does The Prayer Really Say?
26 September, 2011
25 September, 2011
Pope: “Agnostics are closer to the Kingdom of God than believers whose life of faith is 'routine'”
I have often posed a question to Christian thinkers that follows the Pope's line of argumentation. It goes like this:
Imagine on the day of judgment you are made to stand in one line or another: line #1 is for people who faithfully attended religious services and prayed every day but they lived a sinful life (love of God: yes; love of neighbor: no). Line #2 is for people who did not go to Church or pray but lived exemplary lives (love of God: no; love of neighbor: yes).
Which line would you want to stand in? Would either or both merit a place in paradise?
Given that we are obliged to fulfill both commitments of love if we wish to obtain paradise, I have always believed that the best option is line #2. It seems that B16 might agree with me!
Pope: “Agnostics are closer to the Kingdom of God than believers whose life of faith is 'routine'”
Imagine on the day of judgment you are made to stand in one line or another: line #1 is for people who faithfully attended religious services and prayed every day but they lived a sinful life (love of God: yes; love of neighbor: no). Line #2 is for people who did not go to Church or pray but lived exemplary lives (love of God: no; love of neighbor: yes).
Which line would you want to stand in? Would either or both merit a place in paradise?
Given that we are obliged to fulfill both commitments of love if we wish to obtain paradise, I have always believed that the best option is line #2. It seems that B16 might agree with me!
Pope: “Agnostics are closer to the Kingdom of God than believers whose life of faith is 'routine'”
24 September, 2011
“Hey Darkside, Get Off the Car.” What a State Farm Commericial Has to Say About God and Spirituality | Archdiocese of Washington
I like this column from Msgr. Charles Pope of the Washington DC Diocese.
I've often remarked that God continues to speak to us in many ways, continually calling us to live better lives and remind us of his gifts to us. The fact that Msgr. Pope was able to see this ad as such a communication speaks well to his 'spiritual radar'!
After all... our faith is the best 'insurance' any of us can have as we face the bumps and scrapes of our daily lives. It's a natural analogy.
Well done Msgr. Pope!
“Hey Darkside, Get Off the Car.” What a State Farm Commericial Has to Say About God and Spirituality | Archdiocese of Washington
I've often remarked that God continues to speak to us in many ways, continually calling us to live better lives and remind us of his gifts to us. The fact that Msgr. Pope was able to see this ad as such a communication speaks well to his 'spiritual radar'!
After all... our faith is the best 'insurance' any of us can have as we face the bumps and scrapes of our daily lives. It's a natural analogy.
Well done Msgr. Pope!
“Hey Darkside, Get Off the Car.” What a State Farm Commericial Has to Say About God and Spirituality | Archdiocese of Washington
Catholic anti-abortion group in financial trouble - The Washington Post
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| Fr. Frank Pavone, PPL Executive Director |
Priest for Life is an excellent organization. Let's all pray that this matter is quickly put behind them so that they can go back to promoting the pro-life agenda without these distractions.
Catholic anti-abortion group in financial trouble - The Washington Post
Is the Catholic Church gradually moving to rehabilitate Martin Luther? - Vatican Insider
Fr. Richard Neuhaus (RIP) used the say when asked why he converted from the Lutheran communion to the RC Church that Vatican II finally saw the Catholic Church correct its ways and answer the issues raised by Martin Luther. As he put it, there was no longer any reason to remain separate, so he came home to Rome.
Is this the same spirit that seems to be now moving the RC Church towards the 'rehabilitation' of Martin Luther?
Is the Catholic Church gradually moving to rehabilitate Martin Luther? - Vatican Insider
Is this the same spirit that seems to be now moving the RC Church towards the 'rehabilitation' of Martin Luther?
Is the Catholic Church gradually moving to rehabilitate Martin Luther? - Vatican Insider
23 September, 2011
22 September, 2011
Particles recorded moving faster than light: CERN | Reuters
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| Holy Cow!!! |
Yowza! This is not supposed to be possible... at least if Einstein was correct in his theory of special relativity!
Particles recorded moving faster than light: CERN | Reuters
Pope acknowledges abuse scandal as German trip begins - CTV News
Note in this article that the first of the 'big demonstrations' that are predicted by the media to dog the Pontiff throughout this visit numbered about 20 people. Now, let's see if the predicted 10,000 come out to demonstrate when he addressed the German parliament. The 'massive' demonstration of similar size was predicted to confront him when he visited Britain produced a few hundred protesters. I wonder if the German opponents to the Church will be any more successful in organizing and turning out protesters than were the Brits.
** (addendum) Well, we are beginning to get our answers. Here's a quote taken from a news report of the first 'mass demonstration':
Pope acknowledges abuse scandal as German trip begins - CTV News
** (addendum) Well, we are beginning to get our answers. Here's a quote taken from a news report of the first 'mass demonstration':
"It was estimated that only "several thousand" protesters ended up showing up at the capital's Potsdamer Platz, far fewer than organizers had predicted. There were no reports of any incidents."
Pope acknowledges abuse scandal as German trip begins - CTV News
21 September, 2011
Visiting Berlin, Pope Benedict Faces a Combative Homeland - NYTimes.com
They (the media) keep repeating that B16 is going to face demonstrations and conflicts each time he leaves for a foreign country... and each time he has triumphed.
I was a doubter until I witnessed his winning over the crowds in Britain. I'm a doubter any longer. This visit will most likely simply become the latest in a series of diplomatic and pastoral successes he's racked up over the past five years.
The trick then becomes, how can the Church in Germany take advantage of positive impact of a papal visit? That will be the hard part.
Visiting Berlin, Pope Benedict Faces a Combative Homeland - NYTimes.com
I was a doubter until I witnessed his winning over the crowds in Britain. I'm a doubter any longer. This visit will most likely simply become the latest in a series of diplomatic and pastoral successes he's racked up over the past five years.
The trick then becomes, how can the Church in Germany take advantage of positive impact of a papal visit? That will be the hard part.
Visiting Berlin, Pope Benedict Faces a Combative Homeland - NYTimes.com
The American Spectator : Catholic Controversies
Intellectuals keep creating them. The public keeps spreading them. Now author Stephen Gabriel is sorting them out.
The American Spectator : Catholic Controversies
The American Spectator : Catholic Controversies
20 September, 2011
19 September, 2011
18 September, 2011
Pat Robertson: Alzheimer's Justifies Divorce --- Maybe it's Pat who needs a mental acuity test!!
How can a man claiming to be a religious leader come out and sanction
such a patently sinful act as abandoning one's spouse in a moment of
their greatest need to pursue an adulterous relationship with another? I
well appreciate the desire to be pastoral and compassionate. They are
positive and necessary attributes for any clergymen. But truth must also
be served in cases such as this. To divorce a spouse under such
conditions constitutes a base violation of a sacred and solemn promise.
It is an offense against man and God.
A new low for a leader of the 'Moral Majority' of the 1980's. It is truly sad.
Pat Robertson: Alzheimer's Justifies Divorce
A new low for a leader of the 'Moral Majority' of the 1980's. It is truly sad.
Pat Robertson: Alzheimer's Justifies Divorce
17 September, 2011
Proof positive not that every event requires a public prayer!
The Holy Post has published an article in which a theologian (correctly) states that not every public event need be accompanied by a public prayer. This YouTube video is an excellent example of why Dr. Stackhouse is correct! Enjoy!
Catholic Mass undergoing first changes in 40 years | Cincinnati.com | cincinnati.com
This change in the English translation of the Mass simply brings it closer to the official Latin. Anyone who has celebrated the Eucharist in French would recognize this as the new English version harmonizes with what francophones have been saying since the vernacular was permitted for the celebration of the mass.
Still, 'change' is not something that comes easily to Catholics and there had better be some catechesis within parishes to explain why these changes are being implemented, lest folks think that this is an attempt to re-introduce the old Latin mass.
Catholic Mass undergoing first changes in 40 years | Cincinnati.com | cincinnati.com
Still, 'change' is not something that comes easily to Catholics and there had better be some catechesis within parishes to explain why these changes are being implemented, lest folks think that this is an attempt to re-introduce the old Latin mass.
Catholic Mass undergoing first changes in 40 years | Cincinnati.com | cincinnati.com
16 September, 2011
Freeing Father Pavone! « Coming Home
"This shrill “Free Father Pavone” rhetoric is entirely over the top. He’s not an Orca. He’s a priest in good standing, still celebrating the sacraments in his diocese. It is a dim view of the diocesan priesthood that views it as some sort of prison. Really!!!"
Read the rest of the article by clicking on the link below.
Freeing Father Pavone! « Coming Home
Read the rest of the article by clicking on the link below.
Freeing Father Pavone! « Coming Home
15 September, 2011
Your morning smile!
What does the BBB say about Priests for Life? | The Deacon's Bench
Priests for Life (USA) is one of the major pro-life charities in the USA. It's National Director, Fr. Frank Pavone has been called to return to the Diocese in which he is incardinated at least until all of the issues about the management of this important charity are investigated.
Fr. Pavone's response has been interesting to say the least. While respecting his vow of obedience to his Bishop he has returned to his Diocese. At the same time he is publicly challenging his Bishop's decision. The fact that P/L staff and volunteers are going to be picketing churches in Amarillo doesn't stand him in good stead either.
It seems as if Fr. Pavone believes that he is essential to this pro-life ministry. He is mistaken. I'm reminded of a lesson I learned when I was a University student (many, many years ago). I was president of the University Student Union and was considering a run at re-election (something that had never been done before). A good friend came into my office and placed a bucket of water on my desk. "Make a fist and put it into the water" he said, "then pull it out." "After I completed this he asked me... "Is there still a hole in the water where your fist was?" Of course I said 'No'. "Then you can be replaced" he said. "Any other fist can do the same job. It doesn't need to be you!"
I would say the same to Fr. Pavone. Don't get caught up so much in a particular ministry that you convince yourself that you and you alone can do the job right. No one is that 'essential' to any ministry. If they were, then the ministry is actually about them and not truly about building the Kingdom in expectation of Christ's return. I sincerely hope that Fr. Pavone comes to understand this essential wisdom before he does harm to his vocation and to this important pro-life advocacy group.
What does the BBB say about Priests for Life? | The Deacon's Bench
14 September, 2011
13 September, 2011
Victims' groups file charges against Vatican for 'crimes against humanity'
... and the lawyers get richer, and richer, and....
The article makes clear that the Court will not take up the case (Holy See not a member; failure to meet rule of evidence, etc.) and yet the case is prepared and submitted. No hope for a judgment... no hope for compensation for the victims... no hope for closure for the victims...
... and the lawyers get richer, and richer, and...
Catholic Culture : Latest Headlines : Victims' groups file charges against Vatican for 'crimes against humanity'
The article makes clear that the Court will not take up the case (Holy See not a member; failure to meet rule of evidence, etc.) and yet the case is prepared and submitted. No hope for a judgment... no hope for compensation for the victims... no hope for closure for the victims...
... and the lawyers get richer, and richer, and...
Catholic Culture : Latest Headlines : Victims' groups file charges against Vatican for 'crimes against humanity'
12 September, 2011
Rick Perry sure knows how to market himself: 50% Marlboro Man and 50% effective leader. It's a potent package.
It is sometimes difficult for Canadians to understand how some of America's politicians get elected. Their portrayal in the mass media seems to paint them as too extreme to be considered electable. And yet they continue to have success. I previously posted a slick ad from Ron Paul. This is a compilation of Rick Perry ads from the start of his career as a politician. Say what you want about American pols... they are good at selling themselves in the public market.
(NOTE: I'm posting Republican ads because they're the only ones around these days. Democrats are just as slick. I'm not that interested in ads from 3rd parties so I don't post many here.)
(NOTE: I'm posting Republican ads because they're the only ones around these days. Democrats are just as slick. I'm not that interested in ads from 3rd parties so I don't post many here.)
The decline of civilization, in one simple chart | VirtuousPla.net
An interesting use of the internet to try to 'scientifically' or at least statistically to chart societal trends as relates to morality. I do not know if it actually proves what it claims or if the initial premise that such a connection is in any way a causal relationship... but it does provoke thought.
Check it out for yourself and let me know what you think.
The decline of civilization, in one simple chart | VirtuousPla.net
Check it out for yourself and let me know what you think.
The decline of civilization, in one simple chart | VirtuousPla.net
11 September, 2011
The assisted suicide dilemma - The Globe and Mail
This is an interview with chair of the Royal Society’s committee on end-of-life decision-making in Canada. Please note that the first issue addressed in the interview deals with the costs involved of caring for the elderly under our Canadian health care system. I offer it as evidence to those who have over the years accused me of exaggeration when I said that dollars would eventually settle the euthanasia debate.
When the chair of such an important committee does not respond with an affirmation of the value of human life but offers a litany of economic reasons why the aging baby-boomers are going to stress the health system to the breaking point, we boomers have good reason to be concerned. It will be very difficult to resist the imposition of euthanasia as a mandatory health care option once we start down this road. The fact that every major lobby group representing the handicapped community oppose its introduction because they see it as a legitimate threat to them. They claim that they already suffer the prejudice of the able bodied community who perceive the lives of the handicapped as being less worth living than theirs. Imagine how it sounds to someone who's handicapped when they hear others say that 'they'd rather die' than live with a similar handicap. Yet when a survey of the entire community (able bodied and handicapped) is asked to rate the quality of their own life, they offer the same rating!
I have been present when doctors have tried to convince a guardian to euthanize a loved one (Dianne) who suffered from advanced MS... even when that person was still perfectly cogent and able to communicate their desire to live... AND WAS DOING SO throughout the entire interview. When the physicians suggestion was refused, the patient was immediately discharged from the hospital for 'refusing to accept' a doctor's 'treatment recommendations'. She did indeed die soon after, but it did not come that day because of the strength of her husband and family who cared for her through her final days at home.
What would have happened if such a situation were to befall you? Would your spouse/children/family be able to do for you what Dianne's husband was able to do for her? He did not need to work so he was able to care for her 24/7, 365 days a year. His wealth came from his brother's, sister and father who all contributed to his needs from their family logging business. Would you be able to afford to have someone care for you if the government health care system refused to do so? I wish I were wrong, but I fear it will be a question many of we boomers are going to have to face in the not too distant future.
Fr. Tim
When the chair of such an important committee does not respond with an affirmation of the value of human life but offers a litany of economic reasons why the aging baby-boomers are going to stress the health system to the breaking point, we boomers have good reason to be concerned. It will be very difficult to resist the imposition of euthanasia as a mandatory health care option once we start down this road. The fact that every major lobby group representing the handicapped community oppose its introduction because they see it as a legitimate threat to them. They claim that they already suffer the prejudice of the able bodied community who perceive the lives of the handicapped as being less worth living than theirs. Imagine how it sounds to someone who's handicapped when they hear others say that 'they'd rather die' than live with a similar handicap. Yet when a survey of the entire community (able bodied and handicapped) is asked to rate the quality of their own life, they offer the same rating!
I have been present when doctors have tried to convince a guardian to euthanize a loved one (Dianne) who suffered from advanced MS... even when that person was still perfectly cogent and able to communicate their desire to live... AND WAS DOING SO throughout the entire interview. When the physicians suggestion was refused, the patient was immediately discharged from the hospital for 'refusing to accept' a doctor's 'treatment recommendations'. She did indeed die soon after, but it did not come that day because of the strength of her husband and family who cared for her through her final days at home.
What would have happened if such a situation were to befall you? Would your spouse/children/family be able to do for you what Dianne's husband was able to do for her? He did not need to work so he was able to care for her 24/7, 365 days a year. His wealth came from his brother's, sister and father who all contributed to his needs from their family logging business. Would you be able to afford to have someone care for you if the government health care system refused to do so? I wish I were wrong, but I fear it will be a question many of we boomers are going to have to face in the not too distant future.
Fr. Tim
10 September, 2011
Arizona church is house of prostitution, police say - CNN.com
Well I guess this is one way to get bodies into pews. Don't think it would work for most Churches though... the pews are too hard to be comfortable!
Arizona church is house of prostitution, police say - CNN.com
Arizona church is house of prostitution, police say - CNN.com
Benedict XVI on 9/11: no circumstances can ever justify acts of terrorism
" I join you in commending the thousands of victims to the infinite mercy of Almighty God and in asking our heavenly Father to continue to console those who mourn the loss of loved ones. The tragedy of that day is compounded by the perpetrators’ claim to be acting in God’s name. Once again, it must be unequivocally stated that no circumstances can ever justify acts of terrorism. Every human life is precious in God’s sight and no effort should be spared in the attempt to promote throughout the world a genuine respect for the inalienable rights and dignity of individuals and peoples everywhere."
From letter of Pope Benedict XVI to +Timothy Donlan of NY
Benedict XVI on 9/11: no circumstances can ever justify acts of terrorism
09 September, 2011
08 September, 2011
Richard John Neuhaus and the Priestly Vocation | First Things
One of my favorite authors writes about one of my favorite friends. Nice piece!
Richard John Neuhaus and the Priestly Vocation | First Things
07 September, 2011
06 September, 2011
2005 WikiLeaks cable: Ratzinger ‘lacks enough support’ to become Pope
Probably an assessment written by the same folks who assured the world that Sadaam had weapons of mass destruction ready to launch at the west!
Catholic Culture : Latest Headlines : 2005 WikiLeaks cable: Ratzinger ‘lacks enough support’ to become Pope
05 September, 2011
Scoops in all of those whispers » GetReligion
I admire Rocco’s record, especially given that he literally is a young lad who lives in his parents basement. (True… google it!)
But I cannot help feeling that I am witnessing the birth of a Catholic ‘Drudge Report’. I cannot see, given how such an internet entity has led to the coarsening of American political culture, that such a development would necessarily be a good thing for the Church. Perhaps one could even compare what he is doing with the actions of Matthew Bradley and Wikileaks… exposing decisions and debate that takes place in secret behind walls of structure and power. Given that he has taken upon his own shoulders what to publish and what to withhold, he is exerting influence in corridors heretofore thought to be inviolate.
Still, it is amazing how much influence he has garnered in a few years within the Church given that he lives in Philadelphia, PA, some 7000+ km. away from the beat he’s covering.
This new information age is certainly transforming the world we live in, for better or for worse.
Scoops in all of those whispers » GetReligion
But I cannot help feeling that I am witnessing the birth of a Catholic ‘Drudge Report’. I cannot see, given how such an internet entity has led to the coarsening of American political culture, that such a development would necessarily be a good thing for the Church. Perhaps one could even compare what he is doing with the actions of Matthew Bradley and Wikileaks… exposing decisions and debate that takes place in secret behind walls of structure and power. Given that he has taken upon his own shoulders what to publish and what to withhold, he is exerting influence in corridors heretofore thought to be inviolate.
Still, it is amazing how much influence he has garnered in a few years within the Church given that he lives in Philadelphia, PA, some 7000+ km. away from the beat he’s covering.
This new information age is certainly transforming the world we live in, for better or for worse.
Scoops in all of those whispers » GetReligion
Stay neutral on Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Vatican told CBCP, says WikiLeaks | Inquirer News
Here is one of those 'dog bites man' stories that's masquerading as a 'man bites dog' sensation to the detriment of the Catholic Church.
Which do you think would be more headline worthy? The Vatican tells Bishops of a particular country not to take sides in a political dispute or that they would so command a conference of Bishops? Secularists demand that the Church not have a voice in secular affairs, yet the secular press somehow twists it into a sin when the Church does exactly as they demand.
How does that old line go? 'Just because you're crazy doesn't mean they aren't out to get you!' When the Vatican stands condemned both when it acts (depicted as Church 'interference' or meddling where she doesn't belong) or refrains from acting (as in this WikiLeaks story) it's hard not to believe that she is battling heavy winds in navigating a safe course through today's media environment.
It's a marvel that she's doing as well as she is... even if she being tossed about like a boat on stormy seas. Seems to me that she's been here before and came through it alright. We simply need believe that her steersman will being her through to port and safe harbor once again no matter how contrary the winds.
Stay neutral on Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Vatican told CBCP, says WikiLeaks | Inquirer News
Which do you think would be more headline worthy? The Vatican tells Bishops of a particular country not to take sides in a political dispute or that they would so command a conference of Bishops? Secularists demand that the Church not have a voice in secular affairs, yet the secular press somehow twists it into a sin when the Church does exactly as they demand.
How does that old line go? 'Just because you're crazy doesn't mean they aren't out to get you!' When the Vatican stands condemned both when it acts (depicted as Church 'interference' or meddling where she doesn't belong) or refrains from acting (as in this WikiLeaks story) it's hard not to believe that she is battling heavy winds in navigating a safe course through today's media environment.
It's a marvel that she's doing as well as she is... even if she being tossed about like a boat on stormy seas. Seems to me that she's been here before and came through it alright. We simply need believe that her steersman will being her through to port and safe harbor once again no matter how contrary the winds.
Stay neutral on Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Vatican told CBCP, says WikiLeaks | Inquirer News
04 September, 2011
03 September, 2011
02 September, 2011
When the Polish Dominicans Left Morningside Heights | First Things
I've had the opportunity to stay with these Dominicans when I would go to Manhattan. I always used to stay with Fr. R.J. Neuhaus (RIP) but after his death, these generous brothers offered me a place to stay whenever I came to town.
They have accomplished amazing things, both within their Parish and on the campus of Columbia University.
Although I will retain my connections to these good men (isn't the internet wonderful?), I grieve for the community they leave behind. They will be very hard to replace!
When the Polish Dominicans Left Morningside Heights | First Things
They have accomplished amazing things, both within their Parish and on the campus of Columbia University.
Although I will retain my connections to these good men (isn't the internet wonderful?), I grieve for the community they leave behind. They will be very hard to replace!
When the Polish Dominicans Left Morningside Heights | First Things
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About Fr. Tim
- Fr. Tim Moyle
- A Roman Catholic Evangelical Priest of the Diocese of Pembroke, Canada. Shown in my profile photo with my canine companion, Mateo.
Favorite Links
- American Papist Blog
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- Rosary for the Bishops
- Salt & Light TV - Canadian Catholic Television Website
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- Sylvia's Website: Canadian Clergy Sex Abuse Cases
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- The New Jesuit Review
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- Vox Nova
- What Does Prayer Really Say - Priest bolg
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