Tuesday, August 28, 2012

Fast Is Fun...Drag Race

Ok...this is just fun
I feel the need for speed....

Monday, August 27, 2012

Catholic Social Teaching & Paul Ryan: Solidarity and Subsidiarity Both Together

Fr. Barron comments on Paul Ryan's thought process in economics.
Both Solidarity and Subsidiarity together.



Saturday, August 25, 2012

SEAL Team Six 'No Easy Day' Book - Author Guilty or Not?

Wow, it's both interesting and very sad to read the various articles various articles   and news reports about this new book recounting the Bin Laden raid by a SEAL Team member actually there.

A few observations.....

1) The out rage of this new book centers around the near release of this story and it's secrets. The thing that most confuses me in all these news reports and accusations of SEAL secrets being divulged is that....well....NO ONE HAS READ THE BOOK YET!

The co-author said he believes there is no Classified information for whatever that's worth. I would assume he could be held as an accomplice if there is.

No one knows what the book actually says! Yes, proper authorities have not reviewed it yet. They would be the ones that would at least comb the book for Classified information. But has anyone else read the book? Can anyone else point to anything specifically that would justify the accusation of the  revealing of Classified information? I'm sure his fellow SEAL's have and the fact that the first hand account is out doesn't mean anything. There are plenty of other books about SEAL Team accounts of Bin Laden raid as well as other missions from Team members. I don't hear a cry of "traitor" going out for them.

The Commander and Chief's co-operation with film makers for political reasons in the up coming movie due out between now and December has generated the same out cry from the SEAL's group. No-one has seen that film either to be fair.

Other media released informations has pointed to a true release (from somewhere) of classified information.

 How about the release of the SEAL Team members name? Isn't that a Classified item?

What if the accusations prove false and the books contents are deemed benign? What then? The only classified information would be the revealing of the name of the individual and the persecution in the media of this individual.

2) If the accusations do prove true, hero or not that would be serious and I believe he should be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.

I realize he is now retired and I read something about the SEAL Team author not getting benefits or having a difficult time financially. That still wouldn't justify his actions, should the accusations be true, war hero or not.

I to have a security clearance for my job at work. When I retire or encounter financial troubles (beyond what I can mustard through now) that doesnt' give me the right to publish a book on what I know and seen to augment my financial necessities. I wouldn't even think of that.

I'm well aware of the paperwork I signed and re-iterated my understanding of the consequences during my polygraphs. No excusses.

3) My third point, why does it seem that the media who is playing out this story, revealing the name of the individual and all, why do they seem to me to be such hypocrites?

Let's see, when they (media) reveals classified information it's "their duty" to keep the public informed. It doesn't seem to matter who's lives they put in danger. The claim is that the individual in this case is only doing it for profit. Okay that may be partially true (we don't know all the facts yet) but does that mean the media isn't doing it for profit?

Not sure where this is all going to lead. Maybe the media is using this individuals actions to justify the Commander in-Chief's actions.

Does two wrongs make a right?

Are there indeed two wrongs here?

We just don't know all the facts...

Tuesday, August 21, 2012

Catholics - Divided and Confused

Politics at its worst….or best depending on who you talk to. Case in point, Paul Ryan the Senator from Wisconsin and Chairman of the House Budget Committee, GOP VP Candidate and oh least we forget… a Catholic.

Ooops! Did I say that out loud?

We’ll I guess the opposing campaign and Main Stream Media will have to address that won’t they?

And they have with today’s article in The Daily Caller Blog, referencing an interview. 
Hoping to discredit Mr. Ryan on his economic stance with arguments that would add to the debate and give voters a chance to decide isn’t enough for a win so let’s see what Paul Ryan’s former pastor has to say about his Catholicity.

To be fair Senator Ryan has stated his Catholicity and how his faith has aided in forming his stance on economics regarding the poor…so I guess it’s fair. Reverend Wright has been compared although I’m not sure it’s an equal fair comparison.

So let’s begin with an interview with his former pastor Father Stephen Umhoefer.

First off the interview is with a very left leaning media group, Center for Media and Democracy (CMD). Sounds like a dirt finding mission but let’s read on.

To prep the good Fathers remarks, the article points out the letter from the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, call for Catholics to “resist for moral and human reasons” Ryan’s ‘Path to Prosperity’… (A mistake in my opinion)

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops took sharp exception, calling on Congress to resist "for moral and human reasons" cuts to food and nutrition programs to the poor. The Conference called instead for "shared sacrifice ... including raising adequate revenues, eliminating unnecessary military and other spending, and addressing the long-term costs of health insurance and retirement programs fairly." Faculty at Georgetown University put it more bluntly in an open letter to Ryan: "Your budget appears to reflect the values of your favorite philosopher, Ayn Rand, rather than the Gospel of Jesus Christ."

Oh and just for flavor, the faculty at Georgetown, Ayn Rand references…

Ok, now let’s toss into this salad of discredit, the rhetoric of Father Umhoefer.

The first question is how does this affect the poor. And everything else follows from that. That doesn't mean it's a Republican or Democrat [question] -- you could argue that. But the primary question is how does this affect the poor?"

Umhoefer said that Ryan's lack of attention to the poor and the emphasis on individualism espoused by role models such as Ayn Rand concerned him. "Paul would say that the only way to save the country from a coming [fiscal] disaster is 'follow my plan.'" But according to Umhoefer, the problem is "you can't tell somebody that in ten years your economic situation is going to be just wonderful because meanwhile your kids may starve to death."

The Father says he has never sat down to discuss politics with Mr. Ryan but what the heck right. Let the Father judge him on what he thinks Ryan really believes.
As a final crouton, I mean comment let’s ask Ryan to keep his Catholic views to himself…
"What I wish for Paul -- he is so smart and so articulate and has made this whole budget, which he can defend on his own view ... of how the economy and politics work. I wish he wouldn't bring in the Catholic church. He doesn't need to if his economic and political argument are strong, and I'm sure he believes that they are."
Nice Father, nice.

Now before you dot the I’s and cross the T’s on judging Paul Ryan GOP VP Candidate, Bishop Madison’s Catholic Bishop Robert Morlino has also weighed in.

Making decisions as to the best political strategies, the best policy means, to achieve a goal, is the mission of lay people, not bishops or priests. As Pope Benedict himself has said, a just society and a just state is the achievement of politics, not the Church. And therefore Catholic laymen and women who are familiar with the principles dictated by human reason and the ecology of human nature, or non-Catholics who are also bound by these same principles, are in a position to arrive at differing conclusions as to what the best means are for the implementation of these principles — that is, “lay mission” for Catholics.
There’s more…

Thus, it is not up to me or any bishop or priest to approve of Congressman Ryan’s specific budget prescription to address the best means we spoke of. Where intrinsic evils are not involved, specific policy choices and political strategies are the province of Catholic lay mission. But, as I’ve said, Vice Presidential Candidate Ryan is aware of Catholic Social Teaching and is very careful to fashion and form his conclusions in accord with the principles mentioned above. Of that I have no doubt. (I mention this matter in obedience to Church Law regarding one’s right to a good reputation.)
And in conclusion…
Above all, let us beg the Lord that divisions in our electorate will not be deepened so as to have a negative impact on pre-existing divisions within the Church during this electoral season. Let there be the peace and reconciliation that flow from charity on the part of all. Thank you for reading this. God Bless each one of you! Praised be Jesus Christ! (Sorry Father Umhoefer, I believe the Bishop’s view on this)    

So, you have some church leaders saying Nay and others saying Yea.


The hardest part for me in reading this article and its various links was reading the Comments. It’ very hard to say this but it appears the media and the Obama campaign is winning…Winning in the sense of dividing and confusing Catholics who are not educated in the true teachings of Catholic Social Doctrine and are being further confused by clergy who are well meaning but some who are equally ignorant of Catholic teachings in Social Doctrine. How do we tell the difference?

Where does one turn to for the truth if you can’t rely on the leaders of one’s own church to set the record straight with ONE VOICE?

With the exception of the Intrinsic Evils (Abortion, Euthanasia) the other non-intrinsic evils of social justice (helping the poor, caring for the sick and elderly…) are prudential judgments and Catholics are allowed to have a difference of opinion. But we should always look to the truths of what the Catholic Church teaches to inform our consciences.

The laity is going to have to tread carefully and with much prayer in educating oneself in the true teachings of the Catholic Church.

Hearing it taught from the pulpit isn’t going to happen with any fluidity. Not with all the homilies on what the second collection is about this Sunday. Helping the poor in this matter is charitable but after seeing the same homilist return every year around the same time you kind of get the feeling that this poverty thing isn’t going to end anytime soon and with one’s own finances dwindling one can’t always give as much as one would like.

No real substance to what the church teaches is ever really given fully (with a few exceptions), just that feeling of guilt for not being the one in your pew that doesn’t put anything in the basket.

There’s got to be more to helping the poor without going poor yourself.

And I hate those that say, ”well, unless you give your last dime…you’re not really giving.”

Really?, I’m sorry but I am just not at that level in my faith just yet I guess, cuz dragging my family into poverty just to say I gave my last dime isn’t going to happen. Maybe it’s that over-zealous “self preservation” gene in me. And yes I do know the difference of given from surplus and given from your need.

They even have you at the checkout stand at the local grocery store.

“Would you like to give to such-and-such organization? It’s only a dollar!” they ask out loud. You either hit the Yes or No button on the ATM monitor.

So how do we really help the poor? There’s got to be not just a better way….but the right way, the way of Jesus and His Church. We all want to help the poor. We all have those in our families, friends and neighbors, strangers on the street that we would love to end their plight and give relief to their suffering.

I especially get very emotional when I see or know of children suffering.

So decisions have to be made and candidates will have to be chosen. How do we get that true teaching in time for the ballot box.

Here are a few resources that I’ve investigated that have helped me begin to understand the teachings of the church on social doctrine.

1)  Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church by USCCB     2)  Church, State, and Society: an Introduction to Catholic social doctrine by J. Brian Benestad     3)  Defending the Free Market: The Moral Case for a Free Economy by Father Robert A. Sirico    4)  Render Unto Ceaser: Serving the Nation by Living Our Catholic Beliefs in Political Life by Bishop Charles J. Chaput     5)  The Social Agenda: A Collection of Magisterial Texts by Pontifical Council For Justice and Peach, Vatican    So where are Holy Scripture and the Catechism on this list you might ask? They’re there in these books and resources. They point to the scripture passages and CCC references.

You may ask, “Who is this guy?”

He’s just another self proclaimed Catholic blogger among many…and you would be right. I’m just an everyday (West Coast) Catholic seeking only the truth like you are.

You can’t get the truth strictly by listening to cable and local TV news or talk radio and not from Facebook either. Sometimes good intentioned individuals and religious will give you their two cents. (Including me)

So you have to do some research and study yourselves. It isn’t going to happen by osmosis. You need to put the time in.

Look for legitimate resources and verify them. Start with the Church and its books, encyclicals, church fathers and teachers, as well as other resources. Study alone or in groups of like minded Catholics seeking the truth.

And most of all pray, pray, pray. Lead a life of example, even when no one is looking…especially when no one is looking.

…cuz God always is.

Its well worth it and your faith and life will be for the better as well as for those around you. And keep from being divided and confused.

Be One Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church.
 

Saturday, August 18, 2012

NetWork Sister Campbell: What Does She Want?

The good Sister does some great service working with the poor no doubt, but like many in the religious orders, she needs a refresher course on Catholic Social Doctrine.

Here in this interview with Bill O'Reily, he asked repeatedly 'what is it that you want?'. The good sister wouldn't, couldn't whatever, say exactly in plain language what she wanted done to help the plight of the poor.

It sounds like she is saying she wants a guaranteed wage for workers. While that sounds good it doesn't help the poor get out of their situation. It keeps them there permanently.

It also encourages others who otherwise can and should work hard to just do the minimum in life. Why should they work harder if they can get something by working less.

It also increases the poor in number when those that are working now have to make up the difference, not out of choice, to give that guaranteed wage. I'm not talking about the ultra rich here. I'm talking about those that are making a living to keep afloat themselves. The taxes involves with the good sisters wish affects all not just the rich that she is alluding to.

There are many ways to help the poor and this being a prudential judgment, there are many solutions that can differ among Catholics with good hearts. But a good study on what the church actually teaches is a must if we are actually going to get the poor to higher ground and put them on a path of freedom from poverty.

I takes both the ideas of Jefferson and Locke as well as Aquinas and Aristotle, both material needs and responsibilities as well as spiritual from both the giver as well as the receiver.

Take a minute to listen

Tuesday, August 14, 2012

Catholic Social Justice - Sen Paul Ryan

Solidarity, Subsidiarity, Common Good, Prudential judgement....what do these terms truly mean.
This is the language that Paul Ryan is using in his speeches,  but do you know the terminology? 
Do you understand the true meaning of these words and phrases.
Here's a great resource. The first 5 chapters explain the building blocks of Catholic Social Justice. 
A must for everyone, Catholic and non-Catholic
Church, State, and Society: An Introduction to Catholic Social Doctrine (Catholic Moral Thought)    

Paul Ryan "Plan to Prosperity"

Excellent interview with Paul Ryan as he explains his "Path to Prosperity". Many have criticized but not many know the facts. A good lesson in Catholic Social Justice.


Sunday, August 12, 2012

Paul Ryan..."our rights come from nature and God...

Finally some language I can understand.

"...Our rights come from nature and God, not government. We promise equal opportunity, not equal outcomes."

It's about time.



Paul Ryan Catholic Round-Up

courtesy of The Big Pulpit
 

Rommey/Ryan vs Obama/Biden : Let the Debate Begin

Okay, so now we know both teams in the presidential race.


With the choice of Paul Ryan ...well I can live with that.Ryan is very knowledgeable in economics and we need that so much.

Just saw Face the Nation this morning and already the claws are out and slashing. And yes the opposition as something to fear.

If the debate can focus on the economy and not about the side character assassination, the Obama is a one-term president....and more importantly we can get America back on the right track.

Here's a taste of the debate to come.

Friday, August 03, 2012

The Devil: The Great Untruth

Father Barron has some thoughts on Satan, the Devil.

I feel we don't do enough study on who and what the Devil is. We are not aware of his great influence.

Listen to Father's presentation and reflect.

Traditional Marriage: Truth

Great Article on the the compromise of Gay Marriage:

There can be no compromise on same-sex ‘marriage   

Christian's Don't Support the Poor....Really? Come On Now.....

I just saw this on the net today.

The claim, "Christians don't support the poor..."

Are you serious? What kind of claim is that? Where's the proof?

The exact opposite is the truth. Ask any parish, church what ministries they have in support of the poor. I can could the number of 'Second Collection: we have at our parish every weekend. That is one of the main arteries of Christian belief.

Who are these people that are making this claim? What is their basis?

Does this strike anyone else as totally ridicules?

Chick fil-A: Kiss In

So now after a very positive response to show support by buying the product that Chick fil-A puts out, it's now time for the opposition to express their non-support.

And how they express that is very telling.

It shows what they are really about. Direct attack on marriage, the forced introduction into society of the gay lifestyle.

Why did this group agree on the 'KISS-IN' action. Why not just not buying the product or a simple sign carrying protest. Or any number of ways including using our government processes of legislation.


Why the in-your-face, approach?

They know that children will be at the restaurants, they know that families frequent the establishments.

What is the KISS-IN suppose to accomplish? Are they hoping to stop these families from not going and not witnessing this exhibition?

Don't they know they are also affecting the people that work at these restaurants? What about their families? Are they willing to affect these families and how they support themselves.

So if they don't care about how  these families support themselves, what do they care about?

The arguments even go so far as to say to say the CEO of Chick-fil-A can't spend his own money on what he wants, as they point out that "he didn't make that money on his own"

This is using Obama's argument "...you didn't build that on your own".

What a poison thought. They are willing to attack 'Private Property' principle.
The ability to own your own, house, business, car, faith, religion.

Here's the famous Fulton Sheen on the topic of Private Property:


What is their agenda?Why the Kiss-In?

It's the elephant in the room, their cause is against the 'Common Good'      .

Chick-fil-A protests: Will petition and 'kiss-in' help or hurt?   

Thursday, August 02, 2012

A Chickfil-A Day: Democrat Party Adds Gay Marriage to Platform

A show of unity today, solidarity as lines formed in a show of support for the CEO of Chick-fil-A and his establishment.

I think the most telling moment of this whole affair is the response by the Democrat Party  to add Gay Marriage to their platform.

It's all but a given and undeniable.

With the support of the Democrat Party for Abortion and now Gay Marriage apart of their platform....

....NO CATHOLIC SHOULD SUPPORT THIS PARTY..

No amount of policy offsets can counter these two major anti-Catholic stances.

Now does that mean Catholics won't vote for Obama...no unfortunately. They put him into office.

But lets say it again. The Obama Administration and the Democrat Party are opposite Catholic teaching and Therefore....

....NO CATHOLIC SHOULD SUPPORT THE DEMOCRAT PARTY.