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Thursday, April 02, 2009
Morning Read - Cup of Joe
Articles I'm reading this morning:
U.S. Enew Editor happy about economy causing more abortions (Amp)
Hell and Back Again (American Catholic)
Fr. Barron on "Slumdog Millionaire" (Minority Report)
Why Be Catholic? 3: the Significance of Suffering (Catholic Culture)
Top 25 local Radio Hosts
This Day In History: (JPII Dies 4/2)
The Parables of Jesus Ignored? (Singing In The Reign)
U.S. Enew Editor happy about economy causing more abortions (Amp)
Hell and Back Again (American Catholic)
Fr. Barron on "Slumdog Millionaire" (Minority Report)
Why Be Catholic? 3: the Significance of Suffering (Catholic Culture)
Top 25 local Radio Hosts
This Day In History: (JPII Dies 4/2)
The Parables of Jesus Ignored? (Singing In The Reign)
Wednesday, April 01, 2009
ROTC - ' Those students graduate not prepared to follow the nonviolent Jesus but to kill for the empire. '
I pulled that statement (and copied the entire paragraph to give full context) from an article in the National Catholic Reporter by John Dear SJ.
The article points out the recent announcement to bring the ROTC (Reserve Officers' Training Corps to St. Frances University in Pennsylvania.
Fr. John does his best San Francisco imitation by writing about the "militarization" of the Catholic University.
While Fr. John has the right to show and voice his opposition to not wanting this ROTC program at the school, he is out of line in describing those young men of this program and insulting to all Armed Forces personel as "well-educated warmakers".
This is some of what he wrote:
This roiling of the placid waters has, of course, two sides to it. One administrator gave me the official view of things. Some students train with the army already, off campus, he said. Bringing the army to the campus will let officials influence and supervise.
I heard him out, but I'm still convinced his position is naïve. It smacks of moral compromise; it comes off as a pretext to justify financial gain. My own order, the Jesuits, have employed the same argument for some 50 years, and in all that time they've done nothing to mollify military ways. All Jesuit ROTC programs manage to do is churn out well-educated warmakers -- and bring in millions for our institutions. Those students graduate not prepared to follow the nonviolent Jesus but to kill for the empire.
Fr. John that is most insulting. These fine men and women are sacrificing their time and lives not only for your protection, for your safe keeping, for you rights to voice your opinion, but for the freedom of those oppressed in other countries. To describe them as killers for the empire is beyond my comprehension, especially coming from a Catholic Priest!
Fr John you owe these fine young men a woman an apology!
No one with a well informed conscience likes war or pursues war just for the sake of killing and bombing. In your article you describe your experiences in El Salvador back in 1985. A time when that country was battling a very vicious internal war. I realize your experiences are true, however you seem to insinuate the blame to be from suppliers of the war...the United States.
Kind of one sided don't you think. I don't think for a moment that things were honky-dory with the communist oppression there. I'm sure that religion wasn't persecuted down there at all.
Ya right.
Yes, our Catholic Faith is one focused on peace and justice, love of neighbor and prayers for our enemies.
But it is also one of "no greater love than the giving of ones life for another" and sometimes in order to bring justice and peace this greater love is necessary. We ask for God's guidance in these matters that we do His will not our own.
I'm deeply disappointed in your rhetoric. Labeling our men and women of the armed forces in this light is no more true than those that would label all Catholic priest as pedophile. The few that bad apples don't spoil the whole batch.
I pray that you will rethink your thoughts and maybe offer up an update to this insulting article.
In God's peace.
WCC +<><
Read the whole article Here: ROTC comes to St. Francis.
The article points out the recent announcement to bring the ROTC (Reserve Officers' Training Corps to St. Frances University in Pennsylvania.
Fr. John does his best San Francisco imitation by writing about the "militarization" of the Catholic University.
While Fr. John has the right to show and voice his opposition to not wanting this ROTC program at the school, he is out of line in describing those young men of this program and insulting to all Armed Forces personel as "well-educated warmakers".
This is some of what he wrote:
This roiling of the placid waters has, of course, two sides to it. One administrator gave me the official view of things. Some students train with the army already, off campus, he said. Bringing the army to the campus will let officials influence and supervise.
I heard him out, but I'm still convinced his position is naïve. It smacks of moral compromise; it comes off as a pretext to justify financial gain. My own order, the Jesuits, have employed the same argument for some 50 years, and in all that time they've done nothing to mollify military ways. All Jesuit ROTC programs manage to do is churn out well-educated warmakers -- and bring in millions for our institutions. Those students graduate not prepared to follow the nonviolent Jesus but to kill for the empire.
Fr. John that is most insulting. These fine men and women are sacrificing their time and lives not only for your protection, for your safe keeping, for you rights to voice your opinion, but for the freedom of those oppressed in other countries. To describe them as killers for the empire is beyond my comprehension, especially coming from a Catholic Priest!
Fr John you owe these fine young men a woman an apology!
No one with a well informed conscience likes war or pursues war just for the sake of killing and bombing. In your article you describe your experiences in El Salvador back in 1985. A time when that country was battling a very vicious internal war. I realize your experiences are true, however you seem to insinuate the blame to be from suppliers of the war...the United States.
Kind of one sided don't you think. I don't think for a moment that things were honky-dory with the communist oppression there. I'm sure that religion wasn't persecuted down there at all.
Ya right.
Yes, our Catholic Faith is one focused on peace and justice, love of neighbor and prayers for our enemies.
But it is also one of "no greater love than the giving of ones life for another" and sometimes in order to bring justice and peace this greater love is necessary. We ask for God's guidance in these matters that we do His will not our own.
I'm deeply disappointed in your rhetoric. Labeling our men and women of the armed forces in this light is no more true than those that would label all Catholic priest as pedophile. The few that bad apples don't spoil the whole batch.
I pray that you will rethink your thoughts and maybe offer up an update to this insulting article.
In God's peace.
WCC +<><
Read the whole article Here: ROTC comes to St. Francis.
Newt a New Convert?
I missed this on the Internet, but it appears we maybe welcoming a new convert to the fold.
Conservative author and former House speaker Newt Gingrich will celebrate the Easter season this year in a very special way – by converting to Roman Catholicism.
“I have become increasingly drawn to Catholicism over the past several years while attending Mass with my wife, Callista,” Gingrich tells Newsmax. “ After prayer and reflection, I believe this is where God has led me. I’m looking forward with great joy to being received into full communion with the Catholic Church.”
While I don't subscribe to all of Mr. Gingrich views on politics, I do pray that his conversion to the Catholic Faith is a strong one. I am happy knowing that he will be able to partake in the graces of our sacraments, specifically Holy Communion and I welcome him with open arms.
... I would have loved to sit in on a few of his CCD classes, just to hear what questions he asked.
Maybe he'll write about his conversion.
Gingrich to Become Catholic During Easter Season
...Susan Gibbs, a spokeswoman for the Archdiocese of Washington, told AOL Political Machine blogger Patricia Murphy that she couldn’t comment about the specifics of any one person's conversion, adding that Gingrich is "in proper standing with the Catholic Church," and, "any obstacles to joining the church have been resolved."
Conservative author and former House speaker Newt Gingrich will celebrate the Easter season this year in a very special way – by converting to Roman Catholicism.
“I have become increasingly drawn to Catholicism over the past several years while attending Mass with my wife, Callista,” Gingrich tells Newsmax. “ After prayer and reflection, I believe this is where God has led me. I’m looking forward with great joy to being received into full communion with the Catholic Church.”
While I don't subscribe to all of Mr. Gingrich views on politics, I do pray that his conversion to the Catholic Faith is a strong one. I am happy knowing that he will be able to partake in the graces of our sacraments, specifically Holy Communion and I welcome him with open arms.
... I would have loved to sit in on a few of his CCD classes, just to hear what questions he asked.
Maybe he'll write about his conversion.
Gingrich to Become Catholic During Easter Season
...Susan Gibbs, a spokeswoman for the Archdiocese of Washington, told AOL Political Machine blogger Patricia Murphy that she couldn’t comment about the specifics of any one person's conversion, adding that Gingrich is "in proper standing with the Catholic Church," and, "any obstacles to joining the church have been resolved."
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
ND - Kmiec debates Weigel
Catholics In the Public Square has the post and links. Very interesting.
One thing that's pointed out in the post and that I've noticed is how most people that defend President Obama seem to place a spin on what he actually believes in regard to abortion.
You can almost see them bending over backwards, playing with words to show he is not pro-choice.... which of course his actions more than prove (that he is pro-choice). You can see this in the arguments that Fr. Reese (see previous post) puts forth and you can see it in Doug Kmiec's arguments.
Doug Kmiec Debates George Weigel over Notre Dame
(also, h/t to InsightScoop)
Creative Minority Report as a reponse to Mr. Kmiec as well: Responding to Kmiec
One thing that's pointed out in the post and that I've noticed is how most people that defend President Obama seem to place a spin on what he actually believes in regard to abortion.
You can almost see them bending over backwards, playing with words to show he is not pro-choice.... which of course his actions more than prove (that he is pro-choice). You can see this in the arguments that Fr. Reese (see previous post) puts forth and you can see it in Doug Kmiec's arguments.
Doug Kmiec Debates George Weigel over Notre Dame
(also, h/t to InsightScoop)
Creative Minority Report as a reponse to Mr. Kmiec as well: Responding to Kmiec
Monday, March 30, 2009
"Who Painted the Image?"
Now I know that Mrs. Clinton is not Catholic, but I would have thought that most people know about the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe and now St. Juan Diego and the event of 1531.
But maybe I'm wrong.... Hmmm.
Well, she asked the question about the image on a recent visit to the Basilica in Mexico, "Who painted the image?"
After observing it for a while, Mrs. Clinton asked “who painted it?” to which Msgr. Monroy responded “God!”
What a teaching moment. I hope Msgr. Monroy went a little further in his explanation. I hope he told her the whole story.
I hope...
Hillary Clinton leaves flowers fro Our Lady of Guadalupe, asks 'Who painted it?'
The Mystery of Our Lady's eyes
The Story of Our Lady of Guadalupe
Even a Wikipedia entry
But maybe I'm wrong.... Hmmm.
Well, she asked the question about the image on a recent visit to the Basilica in Mexico, "Who painted the image?"
After observing it for a while, Mrs. Clinton asked “who painted it?” to which Msgr. Monroy responded “God!”
What a teaching moment. I hope Msgr. Monroy went a little further in his explanation. I hope he told her the whole story.
I hope...
Hillary Clinton leaves flowers fro Our Lady of Guadalupe, asks 'Who painted it?'
The Mystery of Our Lady's eyes
The Story of Our Lady of Guadalupe
Even a Wikipedia entry
Friday, March 27, 2009
Satan? Naaa, just a figment of your Imagination
It seems that notion, that "Satan is not real, that he is just a ideology that seems to cause evilness to come true, is a notion that is getting to be very popular today.
Some say if only we can stop believing in Satan that he will no longer exist. Some that belief in anything is a crutch to alleviate guilt we have in ourselves.
ABC's Nightline focused this passed Thursday's show to a debate on the subject. The panel consisted of a Pastor of a Christian church, and an ex-prostitute from Las Vegas. They defended the existence of Satan and his influence.
The other side of the debate, that there is no Satan or only a balance of opposing forces, cold and hot, up and down was defended by Deepak Chopra (Author and scientist) and Bishop Carlton Pearson, an ex-Pentecostal minister.
The only huge hole in the debate, was no one from the Catholic church. Personally I would have loved to have seen someone like Dinish D'Souza on the panel.
A very peculiar debate, very lacking in substance. Very touchy feely, and no one really from the Christian view point, with any worthy challenges to the opposing view.
Anyway, you can see the debate Here
This is the first installment
Some say if only we can stop believing in Satan that he will no longer exist. Some that belief in anything is a crutch to alleviate guilt we have in ourselves.
ABC's Nightline focused this passed Thursday's show to a debate on the subject. The panel consisted of a Pastor of a Christian church, and an ex-prostitute from Las Vegas. They defended the existence of Satan and his influence.
The other side of the debate, that there is no Satan or only a balance of opposing forces, cold and hot, up and down was defended by Deepak Chopra (Author and scientist) and Bishop Carlton Pearson, an ex-Pentecostal minister.
The only huge hole in the debate, was no one from the Catholic church. Personally I would have loved to have seen someone like Dinish D'Souza on the panel.
A very peculiar debate, very lacking in substance. Very touchy feely, and no one really from the Christian view point, with any worthy challenges to the opposing view.
Anyway, you can see the debate Here
This is the first installment
America just like the EU?
America should be just like the EU. That's what many think would be the best thing that could happen to the U.S.
Let's see, churches emptying, and well, just listen to Daniel Hannan a member of the U.K. Parliament as he describes the status of England.
let think about this a little more....please
Let's see, churches emptying, and well, just listen to Daniel Hannan a member of the U.K. Parliament as he describes the status of England.
let think about this a little more....please
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Obam - 'I inherited this debt'
Interesting graphs posted on American Thinker.
I don't know about you but I'm getting tiered of hearing that the present day debit has been inherited from the last administration and we need to "save and invest" to get out of this mess.
Just the facts Ma 'am...
Projected Deficit - Washington Post Article
Obama excuses from Fr. Thomas Reese
Fr. Thomas Reese can be found on The Faith Blog.
This would be funny if he wasnt' so serious...
1. "In his personal life, Obama has never acted in defiance of the fundamental moral principle that abortion is wrong.
"Perfectly true. Except if you count his voting for abortion every chance he gets including voting against legislation to restrict partial birth abortions, battling Jill Stanek for the right to murder infants born alive during an abortion, funding overseas abortions, voting against prohibiting minors crossing state lines for abortion, and declaring it open season on embryos by funding embryonic stem cell research. But other than that, he's been great.
2."Publicly, Obama has never spoken out against the fundamental moral principle that abortion is wrong."
Obama is the guy who said, "I don't want them punished with a baby" or did Fr. Reese never hear that one. You see, in that statement Obama is clearly making abortion a good that stands above the inconvenience of a crisis pregnancy. In his construction, it it at least a lesser evil if not a good.
3. "He supports legal restrictions on third trimester abortions with a health-of-the-mother exemption.
"What part of the "Freedom of Choice Act" does Fr. Reese not understand?
4. "Although he does not believe that other abortions can be made illegal, he supports programs to reduce the number of abortions."
No. He supports handing out condoms like breath mints and thinks that saying they will reduce abortions makes it an easy sell. Although nobody has ever found that more condoms leads to less abortion. Nobody.
5. "Notre Dame is not honoring Obama because of his views on abortion but because he is President of the United States, as has been made clear by the Rev. John Jenkins, Notre Dame's president."
Fr. Jenkin's intentions of honoring President Obama are unclear. I don't think many people believe he's honoring him because of Obama's stance on abortion. But what many Catholics are concerned with is that Fr. Jenkins is ignoring Obama's radical history of supporting abortion.
(Read the whole article)
This would be funny if he wasnt' so serious...
1. "In his personal life, Obama has never acted in defiance of the fundamental moral principle that abortion is wrong.
"Perfectly true. Except if you count his voting for abortion every chance he gets including voting against legislation to restrict partial birth abortions, battling Jill Stanek for the right to murder infants born alive during an abortion, funding overseas abortions, voting against prohibiting minors crossing state lines for abortion, and declaring it open season on embryos by funding embryonic stem cell research. But other than that, he's been great.
2."Publicly, Obama has never spoken out against the fundamental moral principle that abortion is wrong."
Obama is the guy who said, "I don't want them punished with a baby" or did Fr. Reese never hear that one. You see, in that statement Obama is clearly making abortion a good that stands above the inconvenience of a crisis pregnancy. In his construction, it it at least a lesser evil if not a good.
3. "He supports legal restrictions on third trimester abortions with a health-of-the-mother exemption.
"What part of the "Freedom of Choice Act" does Fr. Reese not understand?
4. "Although he does not believe that other abortions can be made illegal, he supports programs to reduce the number of abortions."
No. He supports handing out condoms like breath mints and thinks that saying they will reduce abortions makes it an easy sell. Although nobody has ever found that more condoms leads to less abortion. Nobody.
5. "Notre Dame is not honoring Obama because of his views on abortion but because he is President of the United States, as has been made clear by the Rev. John Jenkins, Notre Dame's president."
Fr. Jenkin's intentions of honoring President Obama are unclear. I don't think many people believe he's honoring him because of Obama's stance on abortion. But what many Catholics are concerned with is that Fr. Jenkins is ignoring Obama's radical history of supporting abortion.
(Read the whole article)
The White House pressures papal nuncio
The White House is displease with Archbishop Raymond Burke's chastisement of Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius for her support of abortion.
So the White House is placing pressure on the papal nuncio to quiet the Archbishop.
The Catholic THING
A reliable source tells me that someone representing the Obama administration is about to put pressure on the papal nuncio to the United States to get Archbishop Raymond Burke to be quiet. The Obama complaint is that Archbishop Burke, who is now head of the Apostolic Signatura in Rome, has supported another bishop in his chastisement of Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius for her support of abortion.
MORE
Boy, this administration thinks this is going to quiet the church. Let's raise our voices together, in prayer, as well as in our communities & to our government leaders.
So the White House is placing pressure on the papal nuncio to quiet the Archbishop.
The Catholic THING
A reliable source tells me that someone representing the Obama administration is about to put pressure on the papal nuncio to the United States to get Archbishop Raymond Burke to be quiet. The Obama complaint is that Archbishop Burke, who is now head of the Apostolic Signatura in Rome, has supported another bishop in his chastisement of Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius for her support of abortion.
MORE
Boy, this administration thinks this is going to quiet the church. Let's raise our voices together, in prayer, as well as in our communities & to our government leaders.
Notre Dame Students Repond
ND students responded on Wednesday to the invitation of Mr. Obama to this years commencement ceremony.
Notre Dame student groups denounce University's choice for commencement speech
NOTRE DAME, IN, 25 March 2009 — A number of student groups at the University of Notre Dame issued a statement today repudiating the University’s selection of President Barack Obama to deliver its 2009 Commencement Address. The statement criticizes the president’s position on abortion, embryonic stem cell research, and other life issues, and chastises University administration for apparently looking over what they termed "fundamental moral principles."
The statement responds to Friday afternoon’s announcement of Obama as the speaker for the University’s 164th Commencement. Citing Catholic teaching on abortion, as well as the US Bishops’ 2004 document "Catholics in Political Life," which deals with issues surrounding a Catholic response to politicians who advocate abortion, the student statement expresses “deepest opposition” to the decision. "This is not a partisan issue; rather, it’s an issue of respect for human life, and our Catholic character. We want to emphasize that we are not attacking the office of the President, but taking issue with his moral stances. I think the statement makes it clear that the student body of Notre Dame is not unequivocally in favor of this decision,” said senior Emily Toates of Notre Dame Right to Life.
An Ad Hoc committee sponsored by a coalition of University-sponsored student groups has been organized to lead student response. These groups include Notre Dame Right to Life, Jus Vitae (Notre Dame Law School Right to Life), the Irish Rover independent student newspaper, Notre Dame College Republicans, The University of Notre Dame Anscombe Society, The Identity Project of Notre Dame, Notre Dame Knights of the Immaculata, Notre Dame Children of Mary, the Orestes Brownson Council, Notre Dame Law St. Thomas More Society, and the Federalist Society of the Notre Dame Law School.
MORE
Notre Dame student groups denounce University's choice for commencement speech
NOTRE DAME, IN, 25 March 2009 — A number of student groups at the University of Notre Dame issued a statement today repudiating the University’s selection of President Barack Obama to deliver its 2009 Commencement Address. The statement criticizes the president’s position on abortion, embryonic stem cell research, and other life issues, and chastises University administration for apparently looking over what they termed "fundamental moral principles."
The statement responds to Friday afternoon’s announcement of Obama as the speaker for the University’s 164th Commencement. Citing Catholic teaching on abortion, as well as the US Bishops’ 2004 document "Catholics in Political Life," which deals with issues surrounding a Catholic response to politicians who advocate abortion, the student statement expresses “deepest opposition” to the decision. "This is not a partisan issue; rather, it’s an issue of respect for human life, and our Catholic character. We want to emphasize that we are not attacking the office of the President, but taking issue with his moral stances. I think the statement makes it clear that the student body of Notre Dame is not unequivocally in favor of this decision,” said senior Emily Toates of Notre Dame Right to Life.
An Ad Hoc committee sponsored by a coalition of University-sponsored student groups has been organized to lead student response. These groups include Notre Dame Right to Life, Jus Vitae (Notre Dame Law School Right to Life), the Irish Rover independent student newspaper, Notre Dame College Republicans, The University of Notre Dame Anscombe Society, The Identity Project of Notre Dame, Notre Dame Knights of the Immaculata, Notre Dame Children of Mary, the Orestes Brownson Council, Notre Dame Law St. Thomas More Society, and the Federalist Society of the Notre Dame Law School.
MORE
Catholics United - "Doesn't Speak for Me as a Catholic!"
And I specifically mean Mr. Chris Korzen. It seems that this pro-abortion funded group disguising itself under the name 'Catholic' is now being touted by the media as a legitimate voice of Catholics.
This is so far from the truth. Any orthodox Catholic who follows the teachings of the church, and her shepherd on earth, Pope Benedict XVI should NOT associate themselves with this group.
The name of the group should be changed to 'Dissenting Catholics United'. I think that would be more appropriate.
AmP has the story:
Front-group Catholics United slips into attacking Bishop D'Arcy (thanks AmP)
I have zero patience for Catholics United.
It's a front organization that abuses the name "Catholic" for anti-life interests, and is moreover funded by pro-abortion advocates like the billionaire George Soros, as others have exposed.So I wasn't surprised to find out that their executive director Chris Korzen issued a press release today welcoming ND's decision to invite Obama.
It's not hard for Catholics United to think of ways to criticize orthodox Catholics of exploiting the faith for political ends ... because that's exactly what Korzen and company do. The difference is Korzen and co. (falsely and hypocritically) claim the other side is doing it.
So how do you prove which side is disingenuous? Simple enough: you wait for one side to slip.
And Korzen and co. just did.
Here's some of what he said:
As a Catholic, I am deeply disappointed by the knee-jerk opposition to Notre Dame’s decision to confer an honorary degree on President Obama and invite him to give the 2009 commencement address. President Obama’s appearance at Notre Dame will be nothing short of an honor for all Catholics.
Attacking Notre Dame is simply disingenuous and reflects a larger pattern of manipulation of the Catholic faith for political advantage.
Regrettably, the individuals leading the charge against Notre Dame are partisan operatives who routinely use a single-issue analysis to divorce the Catholic faith from its longstanding commitment to social justice and the sanctity of all human life.
MORE
By the way if you haven't yet signed the petition (157,900 signature so far) please do so HERE
This is so far from the truth. Any orthodox Catholic who follows the teachings of the church, and her shepherd on earth, Pope Benedict XVI should NOT associate themselves with this group.
The name of the group should be changed to 'Dissenting Catholics United'. I think that would be more appropriate.
AmP has the story:
Front-group Catholics United slips into attacking Bishop D'Arcy (thanks AmP)
I have zero patience for Catholics United.
It's a front organization that abuses the name "Catholic" for anti-life interests, and is moreover funded by pro-abortion advocates like the billionaire George Soros, as others have exposed.So I wasn't surprised to find out that their executive director Chris Korzen issued a press release today welcoming ND's decision to invite Obama.
It's not hard for Catholics United to think of ways to criticize orthodox Catholics of exploiting the faith for political ends ... because that's exactly what Korzen and company do. The difference is Korzen and co. (falsely and hypocritically) claim the other side is doing it.
So how do you prove which side is disingenuous? Simple enough: you wait for one side to slip.
And Korzen and co. just did.
Here's some of what he said:
As a Catholic, I am deeply disappointed by the knee-jerk opposition to Notre Dame’s decision to confer an honorary degree on President Obama and invite him to give the 2009 commencement address. President Obama’s appearance at Notre Dame will be nothing short of an honor for all Catholics.
Attacking Notre Dame is simply disingenuous and reflects a larger pattern of manipulation of the Catholic faith for political advantage.
Regrettably, the individuals leading the charge against Notre Dame are partisan operatives who routinely use a single-issue analysis to divorce the Catholic faith from its longstanding commitment to social justice and the sanctity of all human life.
MORE
By the way if you haven't yet signed the petition (157,900 signature so far) please do so HERE
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Notre Dame - Petition Signature are Growing
80,000 signatures and climbing!
....sign the petition here: Notre Dame Commencement
Story: ND - No Bama
....sign the petition here: Notre Dame Commencement
Story: ND - No Bama
Paging Bishop John D'Arcy - "Where are you?"
Looks like Bishop D'Arcy of the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend (home of the fighting Irish) will be weighing in on the ND commencement speaker. Not that it will do any good since the good Fr. Jenkins decided to ignore the bishop's advise the last time he offered it.
Not even the USCCB wants to say anything.
But... we'll see. Let's pray for our Shepherds.
The Bishop and the President (American Catholic)
Not even the USCCB wants to say anything.
But... we'll see. Let's pray for our Shepherds.
The Bishop and the President (American Catholic)
Notre Dame - The Cardinal Newman Society Petition
The Cardinal Newman Society, noted for it's support for Catholics on many college campuses throughout the nation, has sponsored a web site to protest the invitation of President Obama to speak at the commencement ceremonies this year at Notre Dame.
The university will also HONOR President Obama with an honorary Law degree.
www.notredamescandal.com
You can sign the petition and make a donation. So far 55, 177 signature have been taken and growing.
There is also info to contact Jr Jenkin (..who made the decision to retain the invitation to Mr. Obama).
Articles:
The Observer (Notre Dame online Paper)
Notre Dame sticking with Obama for commencement
Wha...? (Carl at InsightScoop)
Is Obama Worth a Mass? (Ralph McInerny - professor at N.D.)
WCC has signed the petition...
The university will also HONOR President Obama with an honorary Law degree.
www.notredamescandal.com
You can sign the petition and make a donation. So far 55, 177 signature have been taken and growing.
There is also info to contact Jr Jenkin (..who made the decision to retain the invitation to Mr. Obama).
Articles:
The Observer (Notre Dame online Paper)
Notre Dame sticking with Obama for commencement
Wha...? (Carl at InsightScoop)
Is Obama Worth a Mass? (Ralph McInerny - professor at N.D.)
WCC has signed the petition...
Monday, March 23, 2009
University of Notre Dame - Lose of Catholic Identity
Ralph McInerny, a member of the staff for over 50 years says:
The University of Notre Dame has officially and with much self-satisfaction invited President Barack Obama to address its 2009 graduates and to receive an honorary law degree. Not to put too fine a point on it, this is a deliberate thumbing of the collective nose at the Roman Catholic Church to which Notre Dame purports to be faithful. Faithful? Tell it to Julian the Apostate.
... the invitation to Barack Obama is far from being the usual effort of the university to get into warm contact with the power figures of the day. It is an unequivocal abandonment of any pretense at being a Catholic university. And it is in sad continuity with decades of waffling that have led with seeming inevitability to it.
MORE
Notre Dame to honor President Obama with an honorary Law degree...hmmm.
Amp has the post...Ralph McInerny: " Notre Dame has forfeited its right to call itself a Catholic university"
The University of Notre Dame has officially and with much self-satisfaction invited President Barack Obama to address its 2009 graduates and to receive an honorary law degree. Not to put too fine a point on it, this is a deliberate thumbing of the collective nose at the Roman Catholic Church to which Notre Dame purports to be faithful. Faithful? Tell it to Julian the Apostate.
... the invitation to Barack Obama is far from being the usual effort of the university to get into warm contact with the power figures of the day. It is an unequivocal abandonment of any pretense at being a Catholic university. And it is in sad continuity with decades of waffling that have led with seeming inevitability to it.
MORE
Notre Dame to honor President Obama with an honorary Law degree...hmmm.
Amp has the post...Ralph McInerny: " Notre Dame has forfeited its right to call itself a Catholic university"
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Douglas Kmiec Being called on the Carpet...
Robert P. George is calling Doug Kmiec to task in an email debate: Is President Obama leaving the door open to 'Cloning', with this decision to fund Embryonic Stem Cell research?
Mr. George does think this, as I do. Just the fact President Obama has allowed government funded stem cell research on human embryos doesn't give me just cause to believe that 'Cloning' stemming from this research is out of the question. And further that President Obama would give the green light to such research later if certain scientist could pull him into their line of thinking.
Anyways, the email debate is mentioned in the article and can be found here: God & Country
Over the past few days, George and Kmiec have engaged in a rigorous E-mail debate on the nature of human cloning and other thorny issues surrounding embryonic stem cell research—like whether Catholics who use medical treatments developed from embryonic stem cell research are complicit in what the Roman Catholic Church calls the evil of embryo destruction. They've CC'd me on their E-mails back and forth.
Mr. George does think this, as I do. Just the fact President Obama has allowed government funded stem cell research on human embryos doesn't give me just cause to believe that 'Cloning' stemming from this research is out of the question. And further that President Obama would give the green light to such research later if certain scientist could pull him into their line of thinking.
Anyways, the email debate is mentioned in the article and can be found here: God & Country
Over the past few days, George and Kmiec have engaged in a rigorous E-mail debate on the nature of human cloning and other thorny issues surrounding embryonic stem cell research—like whether Catholics who use medical treatments developed from embryonic stem cell research are complicit in what the Roman Catholic Church calls the evil of embryo destruction. They've CC'd me on their E-mails back and forth.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
B16 - Condoms
B16's comments on condom use is hitting the headlines. Fortunately AmP has been keeping track the commotion and has the great coverage.
American Papist
Was Pope B16 misquoted on condoms in Africa? Maybe not.
also..
Patrick Madrid has a great video link of interview on condom usage you can't miss. (thanks Pat)
Pat Madrid - A quick Catholic Case Against Condoms
American Papist
Was Pope B16 misquoted on condoms in Africa? Maybe not.
also..
Patrick Madrid has a great video link of interview on condom usage you can't miss. (thanks Pat)
Pat Madrid - A quick Catholic Case Against Condoms
Merriam-Webster Dictionary: Marriage
Someone told me that Webster Dictionary now has a new definition for the word 'Marriage' to include same sex marriage.
I didn't believe it so I looked it up online:
Pronunciation: \'mer-ij, 'ma-rij\
Function: noun
Etymology: Middle English mariage, from Anglo-French, from marier to marry
Date: 14th century
1 a (1): the state of being united to a person of the opposite sex as husband or wife in a consensual and contractual relationship recognized by law (2): the state of being united to a person of the same sex in a relationship like that of a traditional marriageb: the mutual relation of married persons : wedlock c: the institution whereby individuals are joined in a marriage2: an act of marrying or the rite by which the married status is effected ; especially : the wedding ceremony and attendant festivities or formalities3: an intimate or close union
I don't know when this change actually took place and I'm not sure that the print copy has caught up to the online version. But if it has our school children will now be tested to include this definition in their vocabulary testing.
I didn't believe it so I looked it up online:
Pronunciation: \'mer-ij, 'ma-rij\
Function: noun
Etymology: Middle English mariage, from Anglo-French, from marier to marry
Date: 14th century
1 a (1): the state of being united to a person of the opposite sex as husband or wife in a consensual and contractual relationship recognized by law (2): the state of being united to a person of the same sex in a relationship like that of a traditional marriage
I don't know when this change actually took place and I'm not sure that the print copy has caught up to the online version. But if it has our school children will now be tested to include this definition in their vocabulary testing.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
No Way to Teat the Troops...
Since my last post was on our beloved Veterans, this latest decision from the Commander In-Chief himself.
The American Legion Strongly Opposed to President's Plan to Charge Wounded Heroes for Treatment
The leader of the nation's largest veterans organization says he is "deeply disappointed and concerned" after a meeting with President Obama today to discuss a proposal to force private insurance companies to pay for the treatment of military veterans who have suffered service-connected disabilities and injuries. The Obama administration recently revealed a plan to require private insurance carriers to reimburse the Department of Veterans Affairs in such cases.
...
The Commander, clearly angered as he emerged from the session said, "This reimbursement plan would be inconsistent with the mandate ' to care for him who shall have borne the battle' given that the United States government sent members of the armed forces into harm's way, and not private insurance companies. I say again that The American Legion does not and will not support any plan that seeks to bill a veteran for treatment of a service connected disability at the very agency that was created to treat the unique need of America's veterans!"
...
Commander Rehbein reiterated points made last week in testimony to both House and Senate Veterans' Affairs Committees. It was stated then that The American Legion believes that the reimbursement plan would be inconsistent with the mandate that VA treat service-connected injuries and disabilities given that the United States government sends members of the armed forces into harm's way, and not private insurance companies. The proposed requirement for these companies to reimburse the VA would not only be unfair, says the Legion, but would have an adverse impact on service-connected disabled veterans and their families. The Legion argues that, depending on the severity of the medical conditions involved, maximum insurance coverage limits could be reached through treatment of the veteran's condition alone. That would leave the rest of the family without health care benefits. The Legion also points out that many health insurance companies require deductibles to be paid before any benefits are covered. Additionally, the Legion is concerned that private insurance premiums would be elevated to cover service-connected disabled veterans and their families, especially if the veterans are self-employed or employed in small businesses unable to negotiate more favorable across-the-board insurance policy pricing. The American Legion also believes that some employers, especially small businesses, would be reluctant to hire veterans with service-connected disabilities due to the negative impact their employment might have on obtaining and financing company health care benefits...
MORE
This is no way to treat our Vets.
The American Legion Strongly Opposed to President's Plan to Charge Wounded Heroes for Treatment
The leader of the nation's largest veterans organization says he is "deeply disappointed and concerned" after a meeting with President Obama today to discuss a proposal to force private insurance companies to pay for the treatment of military veterans who have suffered service-connected disabilities and injuries. The Obama administration recently revealed a plan to require private insurance carriers to reimburse the Department of Veterans Affairs in such cases.
...
The Commander, clearly angered as he emerged from the session said, "This reimbursement plan would be inconsistent with the mandate ' to care for him who shall have borne the battle' given that the United States government sent members of the armed forces into harm's way, and not private insurance companies. I say again that The American Legion does not and will not support any plan that seeks to bill a veteran for treatment of a service connected disability at the very agency that was created to treat the unique need of America's veterans!"
...
Commander Rehbein reiterated points made last week in testimony to both House and Senate Veterans' Affairs Committees. It was stated then that The American Legion believes that the reimbursement plan would be inconsistent with the mandate that VA treat service-connected injuries and disabilities given that the United States government sends members of the armed forces into harm's way, and not private insurance companies. The proposed requirement for these companies to reimburse the VA would not only be unfair, says the Legion, but would have an adverse impact on service-connected disabled veterans and their families. The Legion argues that, depending on the severity of the medical conditions involved, maximum insurance coverage limits could be reached through treatment of the veteran's condition alone. That would leave the rest of the family without health care benefits. The Legion also points out that many health insurance companies require deductibles to be paid before any benefits are covered. Additionally, the Legion is concerned that private insurance premiums would be elevated to cover service-connected disabled veterans and their families, especially if the veterans are self-employed or employed in small businesses unable to negotiate more favorable across-the-board insurance policy pricing. The American Legion also believes that some employers, especially small businesses, would be reluctant to hire veterans with service-connected disabilities due to the negative impact their employment might have on obtaining and financing company health care benefits...
MORE
This is no way to treat our Vets.
Brothers At War - The Movie
(PHOTO: Brothers At War)I mentioned this movie effort earlier in one of my post. It looks like the movie is now ready for the big screen.
Here's a synopsis:
BROTHERS AT WAR is an intimate portrait of an American family during a turbulent time. Jake Rademacher sets out to understand the experience, sacrifice, and motivation of his two brothers serving in Iraq. The film follows Jake’s exploits as he risks everything—including his life—to tell his brothers’ story. Often humorous, but sometimes downright lethal, BROTHERS AT WAR is a remarkable journey where Jake embeds with four combat units in Iraq.
Unprecedented access to U.S. and Iraqi combat units take him behind the camouflage curtain with secret reconnaissance troops on the Syrian border, into sniper "Hide Sites" in the Sunni Triangle, through raging machine gun battles with the Iraqi Army. Ultimately, the film follows his brothers home where separations and life-threatening work ripple through their parents, siblings, wives and children. BROTHERS AT WAR provides a rare look at the bonds and service of our soldiers on the frontlines and the profound effects their service has on the loved ones they leave behind.
Not much out there to pay $10.00 to watch and this one looks like one I won't miss.
Not so much from an entertainment stand point, more of an appreciation, and respect for all the troops who are laying it on the line for us back home.
Make one kind of ashamed of all our griping cry-babing ways.
Go see the movie.
BROTHERS AT WAR (VIEW THE MOVIE CLIP)
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Bill Clintion - 'Embryos Are Not Fertilized'
What?
Here's his actual quote:
BILL CLINTON: I think -- the answer is I think that we’ll work it through. When it’s -- if it -- particularly, if it’s done right. If it’s obvious that we’re not taking embryos that can -- that under any conceivable scenario would be used for a process that would allow them to be fertilized and become little babies, and I think if it’s obvious that we’re not talking about some science fiction cloning of human beings, then I think the American people will support this. I think they’ll support it because we want to solve type 1 diabetes. We want to solve -- we want to find out about whether Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s can be reversed. We want a whole range of other things. And I think at some point, you know -- maybe it’s -- decades down the way -- if somebody severs an arm and you try to sew it back on, and you’re missing some component things, if you can figure out how to fill in the blanks, I think people would like that. So I think we'll just have to debate it as we go along. I think -- I was anxious for the president to do this and get this research going again --
EMBRYOS ARE FERTILIZED EGGS!
The worst part is the one doing the interview is a Dr. Gupta himself. The good Doctor didn't once correct him.
How many people will believe these mis-facts (...okay lets use the proper word here LIES!), I don't know. While I don't know Mr. Clinton's thoughts, its hard for be to believe that his didn't know what he was saying.
He was there to speak on behalf of the Obama decision. With his wife Madame Secretary of State, I guess you can say anything and get away with it.
FACT: AN EMBRYO IS A BABY.
FACT: IT'S A VIABLE HUMAN BEING AS LONG AS YOU DON'T REMOVE IT FROM THE MOM BEFORE IT'S GESTATION PERIOD.
FACT: THERE IS NO PROOF AN ANY PROGRESS IN THE EMBRYONIC STEM CELL RESEARCH FIELD... IT DOEN'T WORK!
Here's his actual quote:
BILL CLINTON: I think -- the answer is I think that we’ll work it through. When it’s -- if it -- particularly, if it’s done right. If it’s obvious that we’re not taking embryos that can -- that under any conceivable scenario would be used for a process that would allow them to be fertilized and become little babies, and I think if it’s obvious that we’re not talking about some science fiction cloning of human beings, then I think the American people will support this. I think they’ll support it because we want to solve type 1 diabetes. We want to solve -- we want to find out about whether Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s can be reversed. We want a whole range of other things. And I think at some point, you know -- maybe it’s -- decades down the way -- if somebody severs an arm and you try to sew it back on, and you’re missing some component things, if you can figure out how to fill in the blanks, I think people would like that. So I think we'll just have to debate it as we go along. I think -- I was anxious for the president to do this and get this research going again --
EMBRYOS ARE FERTILIZED EGGS!
The worst part is the one doing the interview is a Dr. Gupta himself. The good Doctor didn't once correct him.
How many people will believe these mis-facts (...okay lets use the proper word here LIES!), I don't know. While I don't know Mr. Clinton's thoughts, its hard for be to believe that his didn't know what he was saying.
He was there to speak on behalf of the Obama decision. With his wife Madame Secretary of State, I guess you can say anything and get away with it.
FACT: AN EMBRYO IS A BABY.
FACT: IT'S A VIABLE HUMAN BEING AS LONG AS YOU DON'T REMOVE IT FROM THE MOM BEFORE IT'S GESTATION PERIOD.
FACT: THERE IS NO PROOF AN ANY PROGRESS IN THE EMBRYONIC STEM CELL RESEARCH FIELD... IT DOEN'T WORK!
401K Shock - Who Should Be Your Advisor?
Okay, so I took a peek at my 401k yesterday.
Yup, it's what I expected but not much I can do about it right now.
We are all having the same thoughts now a days.
What will I have put away for retirement? Will it be enough to survive?
Will I lose my job? How will I provide for my family? Will I lose my house?
Health care, food... the list goes on.
Thinking of these things is a daily cross we are all carrying.
I was reading the Lenten readings for today and they are so apropos.
First Reading: Jer 17:5-10
Thus says the LORD:
Cursed is the man who trusts in human beings,
who seeks his strength in flesh,
whose heart turns away from the LORD.
He is like a barren bush in the desert
that enjoys no change of season,
But stands in a lava waste,
a salt and empty earth.
Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD,
whose hope is the LORD.
He is like a tree planted beside the waters
that stretches out its roots to the stream:
It fears not the heat when it comes,
its leaves stay green;
In the year of drought it shows no distress,
but still bears fruit.
More tortuous than all else is the human heart,
beyond remedy; who can understand it?
I, the LORD, alone probe the mind
and test the heart,
To reward everyone according to his ways,
according to the merit of his deeds.
Gospel: Lk 16:19-31
Jesus said to the Pharisees:
"There was a rich man who dressed in purple garments and fine linen
and dined sumptuously each day.
And lying at his door was a poor man named Lazarus, covered with sores,
who would gladly have eaten his fill of the scraps
that fell from the rich man's table.
Dogs even used to come and lick his sores.
When the poor man died,
he was carried away by angels to the bosom of Abraham.
The rich man also died and was buried,
and from the netherworld, where he was in torment,
he raised his eyes and saw Abraham far off
and Lazarus at his side.
And he cried out, 'Father Abraham, have pity on me.
Send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue,
for I am suffering torment in these flames.'
Abraham replied, 'My child,
remember that you received what was good during your lifetime
while Lazarus likewise received what was bad;
but now he is comforted here, whereas you are tormented.
Moreover, between us and you a great chasm is established
to prevent anyone from crossing
who might wish to go from our side to yours
or from your side to ours.'
He said, 'Then I beg you, father, send him
to my father's house,
for I have five brothers, so that he may warn them,
lest they too come to this place of torment.
'But Abraham replied, 'They have Moses and the prophets.
Let them listen to them.'
He said, 'Oh no, father Abraham,
but if someone from the dead goes to them, they will repent.'
Then Abraham said,
'If they will not listen to Moses and the prophets,
neither will they be persuaded
if someone should rise from the dead.'"
Keep your chin up fellow 'life-travelers'
Depend on one who will never guide you down the wrong path.
God's retirement plan will never diminish - eternal happiness...
Yup, it's what I expected but not much I can do about it right now.
We are all having the same thoughts now a days.
What will I have put away for retirement? Will it be enough to survive?
Will I lose my job? How will I provide for my family? Will I lose my house?
Health care, food... the list goes on.
Thinking of these things is a daily cross we are all carrying.
I was reading the Lenten readings for today and they are so apropos.
First Reading: Jer 17:5-10
Thus says the LORD:
Cursed is the man who trusts in human beings,
who seeks his strength in flesh,
whose heart turns away from the LORD.
He is like a barren bush in the desert
that enjoys no change of season,
But stands in a lava waste,
a salt and empty earth.
Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD,
whose hope is the LORD.
He is like a tree planted beside the waters
that stretches out its roots to the stream:
It fears not the heat when it comes,
its leaves stay green;
In the year of drought it shows no distress,
but still bears fruit.
More tortuous than all else is the human heart,
beyond remedy; who can understand it?
I, the LORD, alone probe the mind
and test the heart,
To reward everyone according to his ways,
according to the merit of his deeds.
Gospel: Lk 16:19-31
Jesus said to the Pharisees:
"There was a rich man who dressed in purple garments and fine linen
and dined sumptuously each day.
And lying at his door was a poor man named Lazarus, covered with sores,
who would gladly have eaten his fill of the scraps
that fell from the rich man's table.
Dogs even used to come and lick his sores.
When the poor man died,
he was carried away by angels to the bosom of Abraham.
The rich man also died and was buried,
and from the netherworld, where he was in torment,
he raised his eyes and saw Abraham far off
and Lazarus at his side.
And he cried out, 'Father Abraham, have pity on me.
Send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue,
for I am suffering torment in these flames.'
Abraham replied, 'My child,
remember that you received what was good during your lifetime
while Lazarus likewise received what was bad;
but now he is comforted here, whereas you are tormented.
Moreover, between us and you a great chasm is established
to prevent anyone from crossing
who might wish to go from our side to yours
or from your side to ours.'
He said, 'Then I beg you, father, send him
to my father's house,
for I have five brothers, so that he may warn them,
lest they too come to this place of torment.
'But Abraham replied, 'They have Moses and the prophets.
Let them listen to them.'
He said, 'Oh no, father Abraham,
but if someone from the dead goes to them, they will repent.'
Then Abraham said,
'If they will not listen to Moses and the prophets,
neither will they be persuaded
if someone should rise from the dead.'"
Keep your chin up fellow 'life-travelers'
Depend on one who will never guide you down the wrong path.
God's retirement plan will never diminish - eternal happiness...
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
President Lincoln - Hidden Watch Message
A cool piece of history, confirmed.
Secret Message in Lincoln's Watch Found
For nearly 150 years, a story has circulated about a hidden Civil War message engraved inside Abraham Lincoln's pocket watch. On Tuesday, museum curators confirmed it was true. A watchmaker used tiny tools to carefully pry open the antique watch at the National Museum of American History, and a descendant of the engraver read aloud the message from a metal plate underneath the watch face.
"Jonathan Dillon April 13 - 1861," part of the inscription reads, "Fort Sumpter (sic) was attacked by the rebels on the above date." Another part reads, "Thank God we have a government."
The words were etched in tiny cursive handwriting and filled the the space between tiny screws and gears that jutted through the metal plate. A magnifying glass was required to read them.
MORE
Secret Message in Lincoln's Watch Found
For nearly 150 years, a story has circulated about a hidden Civil War message engraved inside Abraham Lincoln's pocket watch. On Tuesday, museum curators confirmed it was true. A watchmaker used tiny tools to carefully pry open the antique watch at the National Museum of American History, and a descendant of the engraver read aloud the message from a metal plate underneath the watch face.
"Jonathan Dillon April 13 - 1861," part of the inscription reads, "Fort Sumpter (sic) was attacked by the rebels on the above date." Another part reads, "Thank God we have a government."
The words were etched in tiny cursive handwriting and filled the the space between tiny screws and gears that jutted through the metal plate. A magnifying glass was required to read them.
MORE
WCC Salutes: Lt. j.g. Aloysius Schmitt, Chaplain USS Oklahoma
First American chaplin to die in World War II aboard the USS Oklahoma at Pear Harbor.
American Catholic has the Story
I also salute all our men and women in the Armed Forces
WCC +<><
American Catholic has the Story
I also salute all our men and women in the Armed Forces
WCC +<><
Connecticut Bill 1098 - Proposed by......
This from the Catholic League:
The bill that would allow the state legislature in Connecticut to reconfigure the governing structure of the Catholic Church has been pulled. Introduced by Rep. Michael Lawlor and Sen. Andrew McDonald, the bill was withdrawn at the behest of the person who proposed it, Tom Gallagher; he is a contributor to the National Catholic Reporter, a left-wing Catholic newspaper. Attorney General Richard Blumenthal will now review the constitutionality of the bill....
“The big losers are the Catholic left-wing activists who pushed for this measure. To be specific, Voice of the Faithful, a dissident Catholic group comprised mainly of senior citizens, has been promoting a lay Catholic takeover of the Catholic Church for many years. Also, their ideological kinfolk at the National Catholic Reporter republished an article by Gallagher calling for an aggressive civil law approach to parish governance.
“Lawlor, McDonald, Gallagher, Voice of the Faithful, and the National Catholic Reporter totally underestimated the reaction of rank-and-file Catholics. Chalk up a big victory for Catholics who are loyal to the Magisterium of the Catholic Church and to the religious liberty provisions of the First Amendment.”
MORE
H/T to The Cloud of Fire Blog
The bill that would allow the state legislature in Connecticut to reconfigure the governing structure of the Catholic Church has been pulled. Introduced by Rep. Michael Lawlor and Sen. Andrew McDonald, the bill was withdrawn at the behest of the person who proposed it, Tom Gallagher; he is a contributor to the National Catholic Reporter, a left-wing Catholic newspaper. Attorney General Richard Blumenthal will now review the constitutionality of the bill....
“The big losers are the Catholic left-wing activists who pushed for this measure. To be specific, Voice of the Faithful, a dissident Catholic group comprised mainly of senior citizens, has been promoting a lay Catholic takeover of the Catholic Church for many years. Also, their ideological kinfolk at the National Catholic Reporter republished an article by Gallagher calling for an aggressive civil law approach to parish governance.
“Lawlor, McDonald, Gallagher, Voice of the Faithful, and the National Catholic Reporter totally underestimated the reaction of rank-and-file Catholics. Chalk up a big victory for Catholics who are loyal to the Magisterium of the Catholic Church and to the religious liberty provisions of the First Amendment.”
MORE
H/T to The Cloud of Fire Blog
Bishops & Priest, no longer in charge of RC Churchs - Proposal in Connecticut
This is scary. State Legislators propose a Bill that would govern the Church structure pitting lay parishioners control of finances over priests and bishops.... by state law.
Catholicculture has the story and the resources:
Connecticut Legislators Bristle at Catholic Criticism of [Connecticut] Bill.
Resource Article:
Catholic Church, State In Power Struggle
A proposed bill that would take power from Catholic priests and bishops and turn it over to parishioners has sparked outrage among church leaders, criticism from opposition lawmakers and questions about its legality."You cannot tell a church how it can govern itself," said Marc D. Stern, general counsel for the American Jewish Congress in New York. "The church is entitled to govern itself any which way it wants."
The bill, which would create lay councils of seven to 13 people to oversee the finances of local parishes, relegating Catholic pastors and bishops to an advisory role, won't get its official public hearing before the legislature's judiciary committee until Wednesday. MORE
Seems that some parishioners of local parishes have a concern (in some cases rightfuly so) about the some mismanagement of church funds ($400,000 missing at St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Greenwich is one case. In California there's also the case in I believe Santa Rosa), however is alllowing the State Legislature to make law that govern the Catholic Church structure the right road to travel.
ABSOLUTELY NOT!
AmP has the 'rally call' [Action Item: Recsources for Catholics ralling in Hartford tomorrow]
Carl at InsightScoop : Connecticut Bill 1098 pulled... for now.
Catholicculture has the story and the resources:
Connecticut Legislators Bristle at Catholic Criticism of [Connecticut] Bill.
Resource Article:
Catholic Church, State In Power Struggle
A proposed bill that would take power from Catholic priests and bishops and turn it over to parishioners has sparked outrage among church leaders, criticism from opposition lawmakers and questions about its legality."You cannot tell a church how it can govern itself," said Marc D. Stern, general counsel for the American Jewish Congress in New York. "The church is entitled to govern itself any which way it wants."
The bill, which would create lay councils of seven to 13 people to oversee the finances of local parishes, relegating Catholic pastors and bishops to an advisory role, won't get its official public hearing before the legislature's judiciary committee until Wednesday. MORE
Seems that some parishioners of local parishes have a concern (in some cases rightfuly so) about the some mismanagement of church funds ($400,000 missing at St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Greenwich is one case. In California there's also the case in I believe Santa Rosa), however is alllowing the State Legislature to make law that govern the Catholic Church structure the right road to travel.
ABSOLUTELY NOT!
AmP has the 'rally call' [Action Item: Recsources for Catholics ralling in Hartford tomorrow]
Carl at InsightScoop : Connecticut Bill 1098 pulled... for now.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
More Popular to have "No Religion"
This is an interesting survey from the Program on Public Values at Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut.
15%, in the survey say they have no religion affiliation. Is it the youth, is it middle aged people...who are these people?
Is it that they are atheist or is it that they consider themselves not a part of traditional churches. Have they created their own versions of religion?
Many questions, however one point remains predominant. How do they obtain the fullness of the faith. Many of these non religious folks in the survey may have some sort of believe but modified to conform with their life style.
This, in my opinion maybe more dangerous than not having the fullness of faith that Christ intended us to have.
Kind of reminds me of the Lennon song 'Imagine'
'Imagine ....no hell below us. Above us only sky.'
This is more dangerous because the numbers that live this imaginary religion is much larger than the true atheist. Therefore you have more of the 'faithful' agreeing that abortion isn't that big of a deal. That euthanasia is merciful, that marriage between a man an woman is a thing of the past. But "I still believe in god."
what to do....
Prayer is the first thing. Study your faith. Share your faith. Most important, live your faith to the fullest.
More Americans say they have no religion.
A wide-ranging study on American religious life found that the Roman Catholic population has been shifting out o of the Northeast to the Southwest, the percentage of Christians in the nation has declined and more people say they have no religion at all.
Fifteen percent of respondents said they had no religion, an increase from 14.2 percent in 2001 and 8.2 percent in 1990, according to the American Religious Identification Survey.
Northern New England surpassed the Pacific Northwest as the least religious region, with Vermont reporting the highest share of those claiming no religion, at 34 percent. Still, the study found that the numbers of Americans with no religion rose in every state.
"No other religious bloc has kept such a pace in every state," the study's authors said.
more
15%, in the survey say they have no religion affiliation. Is it the youth, is it middle aged people...who are these people?
Is it that they are atheist or is it that they consider themselves not a part of traditional churches. Have they created their own versions of religion?
Many questions, however one point remains predominant. How do they obtain the fullness of the faith. Many of these non religious folks in the survey may have some sort of believe but modified to conform with their life style.
This, in my opinion maybe more dangerous than not having the fullness of faith that Christ intended us to have.
Kind of reminds me of the Lennon song 'Imagine'
'Imagine ....no hell below us. Above us only sky.'
This is more dangerous because the numbers that live this imaginary religion is much larger than the true atheist. Therefore you have more of the 'faithful' agreeing that abortion isn't that big of a deal. That euthanasia is merciful, that marriage between a man an woman is a thing of the past. But "I still believe in god."
what to do....
Prayer is the first thing. Study your faith. Share your faith. Most important, live your faith to the fullest.
More Americans say they have no religion.
A wide-ranging study on American religious life found that the Roman Catholic population has been shifting out o of the Northeast to the Southwest, the percentage of Christians in the nation has declined and more people say they have no religion at all.
Fifteen percent of respondents said they had no religion, an increase from 14.2 percent in 2001 and 8.2 percent in 1990, according to the American Religious Identification Survey.
Northern New England surpassed the Pacific Northwest as the least religious region, with Vermont reporting the highest share of those claiming no religion, at 34 percent. Still, the study found that the numbers of Americans with no religion rose in every state.
"No other religious bloc has kept such a pace in every state," the study's authors said.
more
Monday, March 09, 2009
"NO CLONES" - Wink, Wink...
..So Don't Sign The Executive Order!
"No Clones" So that's suppose to make me feel better. How about the bigger issue.
DON'T KILL BABIES!
President Barack Obama says human cloning is "dangerous, profoundly wrong" and has no place in society.
Obama made the comments as he was signing an executive order that will allow federal spending on embryonic stem cell research.
Some critics say the research can lead to human cloning. Obama said the government will develop strict guidelines for the research because misuse or abuse is unacceptable.
Let's see, Re-funding of International Planned Parenthood:
President Obama struck down a rule Friday that prohibits U.S. money from funding international family-planning clinics that promote abortion or provide counseling or referrals about abortion services.
Mr. Obama's support for FOCA:
Obama is not "merely" a cosponsor of the bill, but someone who has declared enactment of the FOCA to be a top priority. In his too-little-noted speech to the Planned Parenthood Action Fund on July 17, 2007, Obama said, "The first thing I'd do as president is sign the Freedom of Choice Act. That's the first thing that I'd do."
Now the stem-cell reversal... its getting harder for Pro-Obama Catholics to claim that he's pro-life.
"No Clones" So that's suppose to make me feel better. How about the bigger issue.
DON'T KILL BABIES!
President Barack Obama says human cloning is "dangerous, profoundly wrong" and has no place in society.
Obama made the comments as he was signing an executive order that will allow federal spending on embryonic stem cell research.
Some critics say the research can lead to human cloning. Obama said the government will develop strict guidelines for the research because misuse or abuse is unacceptable.
Let's see, Re-funding of International Planned Parenthood:
President Obama struck down a rule Friday that prohibits U.S. money from funding international family-planning clinics that promote abortion or provide counseling or referrals about abortion services.
Mr. Obama's support for FOCA:
Obama is not "merely" a cosponsor of the bill, but someone who has declared enactment of the FOCA to be a top priority. In his too-little-noted speech to the Planned Parenthood Action Fund on July 17, 2007, Obama said, "The first thing I'd do as president is sign the Freedom of Choice Act. That's the first thing that I'd do."
Now the stem-cell reversal... its getting harder for Pro-Obama Catholics to claim that he's pro-life.
Hudson River Landing - Computer Re-enactment
Here's a computer re-enactment of the Hudson River landing.
Amazing...
Amazing...
Friday, March 06, 2009
Follow-Up: "I'm a Pro-Choice Catholic"
AmP follows up on the article in the National Catholic Reporter - 'I'm a Pro-Choice Catholic'
NCReporter pro-abortion Young Voices author could face penalty
Calif Marriage Ban: One for the Voters!
The Calif Supreme Court leaning toward the voters approval of Prop 8.
Thursday's arguments pitted the right of the people to change their constitution against the right to wed. The California Supreme Court's seven justices indicated a wariness to override the will of voters, who approved Proposition 8 in November - 4 1/2 months after the same court had ruled 4-3 to legalize gay marriage.
This by no means the end of this, so keep the prayers going. Marriage: One Man & One Woman
Thursday's arguments pitted the right of the people to change their constitution against the right to wed. The California Supreme Court's seven justices indicated a wariness to override the will of voters, who approved Proposition 8 in November - 4 1/2 months after the same court had ruled 4-3 to legalize gay marriage.
This by no means the end of this, so keep the prayers going. Marriage: One Man & One Woman
Catholic Hospital "Will Close" if FOCA Passed - US Catholic Bishops
U.S. Catholic Bishops let the nation know what will happen if the Freedom Of Choice Act passes.
A proposed bill promising major changes in the U.S. abortion landscape has Roman Catholic bishops threatening to close Catholic hospitals if the Democratic Congress and White House make it law.
The Freedom of Choice Act failed to get out of subcommittee in 2004, but its sponsor is poised to refile it now that former Senate co-sponsor Barack Obama occupies the Oval Office.
A spokesman for Rep. Jerrold Nadler, D-N.Y., said the legislation "is among the congressman's priorities. We expect to reintroduce it sooner rather than later."
More
A proposed bill promising major changes in the U.S. abortion landscape has Roman Catholic bishops threatening to close Catholic hospitals if the Democratic Congress and White House make it law.
The Freedom of Choice Act failed to get out of subcommittee in 2004, but its sponsor is poised to refile it now that former Senate co-sponsor Barack Obama occupies the Oval Office.
A spokesman for Rep. Jerrold Nadler, D-N.Y., said the legislation "is among the congressman's priorities. We expect to reintroduce it sooner rather than later."
More
Tuesday, March 03, 2009
"I am a Pro-Choice Catholic" - The Catechism Says So?
This article caught my eye yesterday.
I am a pro-choice Catholic to me is a contradiction of terms, however this article can be found on a leading Catholic Newspaper..confusing isn't it.
I am a prochoice Catholic by Kate Childs Graham
I wasn’t always a prochoice Catholic. During college I attended the annual March for Life on more than one occasion. The first time my friends and I traveled to the event from Indianapolis, Ind., was with a bus full of high school students -- most, seemingly, only going for the trip to Washington, D.C., with their friends, sans parental supervision. Needless to say, it was a noisy bus ride. After I transferred to Catholic University, I volunteered for the Mass for Life two years in a row -- helping to herd all of those high school students into every crevice of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.
MORE
Dr. Peters of 'In the Light of the Law' blog has the rebuttal.
Young Voices, old canards , and Canon 1369
... In any case, Graham presents a somewhat different profile from that of most other Catholics who are effectively lapsed in regard to Church moral teaching (even if they adhere to some of the social justice principles and/or liturgical practices). Graham claims to have been pro-life at one point and to have taken a small but active role in college pro-life activities, only to have later changed her opinion after extensive study and prayer.
More
Also, 'Te Deum laudamus!' blog takes action.
An Open Letter to U.S. Catholic Bishops...
I wish to express my greatest desires that you receive many graces during this Lenten season. I thank all of you for your service and dedication as successors to the apostles.I ran across something this morning that left me deeply troubled and would like to share my concern.
MORE
I am a pro-choice Catholic to me is a contradiction of terms, however this article can be found on a leading Catholic Newspaper..confusing isn't it.
I am a prochoice Catholic by Kate Childs Graham
I wasn’t always a prochoice Catholic. During college I attended the annual March for Life on more than one occasion. The first time my friends and I traveled to the event from Indianapolis, Ind., was with a bus full of high school students -- most, seemingly, only going for the trip to Washington, D.C., with their friends, sans parental supervision. Needless to say, it was a noisy bus ride. After I transferred to Catholic University, I volunteered for the Mass for Life two years in a row -- helping to herd all of those high school students into every crevice of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.
MORE
Dr. Peters of 'In the Light of the Law' blog has the rebuttal.
Young Voices, old canards , and Canon 1369
... In any case, Graham presents a somewhat different profile from that of most other Catholics who are effectively lapsed in regard to Church moral teaching (even if they adhere to some of the social justice principles and/or liturgical practices). Graham claims to have been pro-life at one point and to have taken a small but active role in college pro-life activities, only to have later changed her opinion after extensive study and prayer.
More
Also, 'Te Deum laudamus!' blog takes action.
An Open Letter to U.S. Catholic Bishops...
I wish to express my greatest desires that you receive many graces during this Lenten season. I thank all of you for your service and dedication as successors to the apostles.I ran across something this morning that left me deeply troubled and would like to share my concern.
MORE
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Warning Against 'Spriit of Adulation surrounding Obama - Archbishop Chaput
I saw this on the Drudge Report this morning a day after President Obama addressed the Congress last night. I heard him on the Sat. radio on my way home from work.
Archbishop Charles Chaput gave a public lecture about his fabulous book "Render Unto Caesar". A must read.
He also provided a critique of Mr. Obama that needs to be hear.
Denver archbishop warns against 'spirit of adulation' surrounding Obama
Canadians packed St. Basil’s Church in Toronto on Monday evening to hear Archbishop Charles Chaput speak about how Catholics should live out their faith in the public square. He warned that in the U.S., Catholics need to act on their faith and be on guard against "a spirit of adulation bordering on servility" that exists towards the Obama administration.
The public lecture by Archbishop Chaput took place on the campus of the University of Toronto at St. Basil’s Church and was attended by an overflow crowd of more than 700 people.
After giving a sketch of the basic principles in his New York Times Bestseller "Render Unto Caesar," the archbishop offered his insights on the need for an honest assessment of the situation of the Church in the public square.
"I like clarity, and there’s a reason why," began the archbishop. "I think modern life, including life in the Church, suffers from a phony unwillingness to offend that poses as prudence and good manners, but too often turns out to be cowardice. Human beings owe each other respect and appropriate courtesy. But we also owe each other the truth -- which means candor."
The Denver prelate then provided his critique of President Obama.
"President Obama is a man of intelligence and some remarkable gifts. He has a great ability to inspire, as we saw from his very popular visit to Canada just this past week. But whatever his strengths, there’s no way to reinvent his record on abortion and related issues with rosy marketing about unity, hope and change. Of course, that can change. Some things really do change when a person reaches the White House. Power ennobles some men. It diminishes others. Bad policy ideas can be improved. Good policy ideas can find a way to flourish. But as Catholics, we at least need to be honest with ourselves and each other about the political facts we start with."
Yet this will be "very hard for Catholics in the United States," Chaput warned.
According to the archbishop, the political situation for Catholics is difficult to discern because a "spirit of adulation bordering on servility already exists among some of the same Democratic-friendly Catholic writers, scholars, editors and activists who once accused pro-lifers of being too cozy with Republicans. It turns out that Caesar is an equal opportunity employer."
MORE
I love this guy. What a leader.
Can I get an AMEN.
...more later on the blog-a-sphere response.
Archbishop Charles Chaput gave a public lecture about his fabulous book "Render Unto Caesar". A must read.
He also provided a critique of Mr. Obama that needs to be hear.
Denver archbishop warns against 'spirit of adulation' surrounding Obama
Canadians packed St. Basil’s Church in Toronto on Monday evening to hear Archbishop Charles Chaput speak about how Catholics should live out their faith in the public square. He warned that in the U.S., Catholics need to act on their faith and be on guard against "a spirit of adulation bordering on servility" that exists towards the Obama administration.
The public lecture by Archbishop Chaput took place on the campus of the University of Toronto at St. Basil’s Church and was attended by an overflow crowd of more than 700 people.
After giving a sketch of the basic principles in his New York Times Bestseller "Render Unto Caesar," the archbishop offered his insights on the need for an honest assessment of the situation of the Church in the public square.
"I like clarity, and there’s a reason why," began the archbishop. "I think modern life, including life in the Church, suffers from a phony unwillingness to offend that poses as prudence and good manners, but too often turns out to be cowardice. Human beings owe each other respect and appropriate courtesy. But we also owe each other the truth -- which means candor."
The Denver prelate then provided his critique of President Obama.
"President Obama is a man of intelligence and some remarkable gifts. He has a great ability to inspire, as we saw from his very popular visit to Canada just this past week. But whatever his strengths, there’s no way to reinvent his record on abortion and related issues with rosy marketing about unity, hope and change. Of course, that can change. Some things really do change when a person reaches the White House. Power ennobles some men. It diminishes others. Bad policy ideas can be improved. Good policy ideas can find a way to flourish. But as Catholics, we at least need to be honest with ourselves and each other about the political facts we start with."
Yet this will be "very hard for Catholics in the United States," Chaput warned.
According to the archbishop, the political situation for Catholics is difficult to discern because a "spirit of adulation bordering on servility already exists among some of the same Democratic-friendly Catholic writers, scholars, editors and activists who once accused pro-lifers of being too cozy with Republicans. It turns out that Caesar is an equal opportunity employer."
MORE
I love this guy. What a leader.
Can I get an AMEN.
...more later on the blog-a-sphere response.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Trojan Horse 'Stimulus Package' - Fr. Mitch Pacwa
(Stimulus Package)
"The sky is falling!"
So Chicken Little proclaimed to her companions, Lucy Goosey, Cocky Locky and the rest...
Fr. Mitch Pacwa makes the comparison with his thoughts on the today's situation.
This month the House and Senate have approved an economic stimulus package in response to the great difficulties in the job market and economy. The political pundits continue to argue about its probable success or failure, disagreeing strongly and certainly not knowing for sure how it will affect the economy in fact. The results remain to be seen, and we all hope that the results help not only our whole nation but the rest of the world that depends on us.
However, as a priest I have some comments to make on the stimulus bill because it contains elements which have nothing to do with stimulating the economy. First, so many of our nation's leaders have taken the Chicken Little approach, claiming that the economic sky is falling. They frighten the press, who help spread the fear by taking on the roles of Lucky Ducky, Goosey Lucy, and Cocky Locky. The reason for fear of complete economic catastrophe may well be real - I do not know enough about the actual state of the economy to make such a claim. However, the fear engendered by our national leaders cries of "Crisis! Crisis!" have energized such a speedy passage of the bill that one begins to fear that haste makes waste.
Of far greater concern is the enormous length of this bill - hundreds and hundreds of pages, with many elements crossed out and new ones printed by hand as compromises and arguments were made in the House and the Senate. However, the senators were not given enough time to read it, even though the Chicken Littles and Lucy Goosies were demanding haste to pass it. They could not know everything that was included, and some of these elements were made known to the legislators only after it had passed.
Among these components is a requirement to computerize the medical records of all our citizens. This would be online with the Federal government, who would then require all doctors to agree to Federal regulations on health care treatment. Any doctor who did not go along with this program would be penalized - though the penalties have not been spelled out.
I am amazed that politicians who demand privacy when it comes to the right to an abortion which had been created by the Supreme Court are now willing to terminate our rights to privacy in regard to our medical records. They will penalize a doctor who does not go along with applying medical procedures legislated by the Federal government, but not penalize a doctor who cuts an infant in the womb to pieces in order to abort it. They have twisted their authority from the protection of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness into a control of lives and the ability to prevent medication and, thereby, terminate some person's lives. This is triage legislation.
Of course, if the politicians promise total medical care, but they cannot supply it, they need to perform triage - choosing who will get medicine and who will die without it. They usurped this power without a public debate on the subject. Inserting it into an urgent and hastily passed economic stimulation bill became a trick worthy of Odysseus - the king who devised the Trojan Horse that destroyed Troy. I do not know what we can do to stop this, but we all need to stand guard against it. We must defend our true right to medical privacy. We must stand up not only for the lives of the unborn but now for our own lives and health. This task is extra difficult because Congress has already rolled the Trojan horse into our law.
Our source of strength this Lent will be our praying, fasting and abstaining to return our laws to a proper relationship with the God given rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. The government did not ever give us those rights; they cannot take them away. Therefore, let us turn to God their Author for the strength, wisdom and courage to prevent our government from taking them away.
Fr. Mitch Pacwa
Subsribe to his newsletter HERE
So Chicken Little proclaimed to her companions, Lucy Goosey, Cocky Locky and the rest...
Fr. Mitch Pacwa makes the comparison with his thoughts on the today's situation.
This month the House and Senate have approved an economic stimulus package in response to the great difficulties in the job market and economy. The political pundits continue to argue about its probable success or failure, disagreeing strongly and certainly not knowing for sure how it will affect the economy in fact. The results remain to be seen, and we all hope that the results help not only our whole nation but the rest of the world that depends on us.
However, as a priest I have some comments to make on the stimulus bill because it contains elements which have nothing to do with stimulating the economy. First, so many of our nation's leaders have taken the Chicken Little approach, claiming that the economic sky is falling. They frighten the press, who help spread the fear by taking on the roles of Lucky Ducky, Goosey Lucy, and Cocky Locky. The reason for fear of complete economic catastrophe may well be real - I do not know enough about the actual state of the economy to make such a claim. However, the fear engendered by our national leaders cries of "Crisis! Crisis!" have energized such a speedy passage of the bill that one begins to fear that haste makes waste.
Of far greater concern is the enormous length of this bill - hundreds and hundreds of pages, with many elements crossed out and new ones printed by hand as compromises and arguments were made in the House and the Senate. However, the senators were not given enough time to read it, even though the Chicken Littles and Lucy Goosies were demanding haste to pass it. They could not know everything that was included, and some of these elements were made known to the legislators only after it had passed.
Among these components is a requirement to computerize the medical records of all our citizens. This would be online with the Federal government, who would then require all doctors to agree to Federal regulations on health care treatment. Any doctor who did not go along with this program would be penalized - though the penalties have not been spelled out.
I am amazed that politicians who demand privacy when it comes to the right to an abortion which had been created by the Supreme Court are now willing to terminate our rights to privacy in regard to our medical records. They will penalize a doctor who does not go along with applying medical procedures legislated by the Federal government, but not penalize a doctor who cuts an infant in the womb to pieces in order to abort it. They have twisted their authority from the protection of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness into a control of lives and the ability to prevent medication and, thereby, terminate some person's lives. This is triage legislation.
Of course, if the politicians promise total medical care, but they cannot supply it, they need to perform triage - choosing who will get medicine and who will die without it. They usurped this power without a public debate on the subject. Inserting it into an urgent and hastily passed economic stimulation bill became a trick worthy of Odysseus - the king who devised the Trojan Horse that destroyed Troy. I do not know what we can do to stop this, but we all need to stand guard against it. We must defend our true right to medical privacy. We must stand up not only for the lives of the unborn but now for our own lives and health. This task is extra difficult because Congress has already rolled the Trojan horse into our law.
Our source of strength this Lent will be our praying, fasting and abstaining to return our laws to a proper relationship with the God given rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. The government did not ever give us those rights; they cannot take them away. Therefore, let us turn to God their Author for the strength, wisdom and courage to prevent our government from taking them away.
Fr. Mitch Pacwa
Subsribe to his newsletter HERE
New American Tea Party - The People Rise Up!
A new movement is afoot.
The people maybe coming to their senses... I hope.
As in our nations beginnings, the people had enough. At the Boston tea party, the people acted to show their outrage of 'taxaton without representation'.
Today, in an era that may someday be called the 'The Great Hand-Out', once again the people may have to take matters into their own hands (legally of course).
Today they are taking to the electronic media by-ways. The internet, blogs and chat-lines to organize.
Obama used it to gather his millions to sponsor his election.
Now these same methods may prove the double edge sword.
Visit the NEW AMERICAN TEA PARTY
Kmiec' s Fatal Flaw
AmP has a points out the 'fatal flaw' in Kmiec's argument against the Vatican's Pelosi statement.
giuristi vs. giudici
giuristi vs. giudici
Monday, February 23, 2009
Prof. Kmiec - Pope Benedict XVI's words to Nancy Pelosi were "intrusive" in legal matters
Prof. Kmiec of Pepperdine University has decided to weigh-in on B16's talk with Ms. Pelosi.
In his piece Prof. Kmiec implied that the Pope exaggerated or at least did not measure the consequences of his words when he told Nancy Pelosi that "jurists," in addition to legislators, must work "in cooperation with all men and women of good will in creating a just system of laws capable of protecting human life at all stages of its development."
In other words....." one doesn't need to over emphasis one's Catholic beliefs while holding office.
Find the least common denominator and go with that...
Hmmm... part-time catholic.
.....NOT
One is fully Catholic whether you a Legislator, a member of the U.S. Supreme Court, Bus Driver, School Teacher, Mom, Dad, Brother or Sister.
Professor Kmiec calls Pope's clarification to Pelosi 'intrusive'
Professor Douglas Kmiec, the scholar who provided a justification for allowing Catholics to vote for Barack Obama, despite the president's consistent pro-abortion track record, wrote last week on Time Magazine's website that Pope Benedict XVI's words to Nancy Pelosi were "intrusive" in legal matters, because they put the whole judicial system in an impossible moral dilemma.
In his piece Prof. Kmiec implied that the Pope exaggerated or at least did not measure the consequences of his words when he told Nancy Pelosi that "jurists," in addition to legislators, must work "in cooperation with all men and women of good will in creating a just system of laws capable of protecting human life at all stages of its development."
According to Kmiec, such a statement “has the potential, at least theoretically, to empty the U.S. Supreme Court of all five of its Catholic jurists, and perhaps all other Catholics who sit on the bench in the lower federal and state courts.”
The Pepperdine professor suggests the Pope, instead, could take "a different, less intrusive course," by "continuing to observe the difference between a jurist and a legislator."
MORE
Carl from InsideScoop has the rebuttal
If I understand Douglas W. Kmiec's argument correctly...
In his piece Prof. Kmiec implied that the Pope exaggerated or at least did not measure the consequences of his words when he told Nancy Pelosi that "jurists," in addition to legislators, must work "in cooperation with all men and women of good will in creating a just system of laws capable of protecting human life at all stages of its development."
In other words....." one doesn't need to over emphasis one's Catholic beliefs while holding office.
Find the least common denominator and go with that...
Hmmm... part-time catholic.
.....NOT
One is fully Catholic whether you a Legislator, a member of the U.S. Supreme Court, Bus Driver, School Teacher, Mom, Dad, Brother or Sister.
Professor Kmiec calls Pope's clarification to Pelosi 'intrusive'
Professor Douglas Kmiec, the scholar who provided a justification for allowing Catholics to vote for Barack Obama, despite the president's consistent pro-abortion track record, wrote last week on Time Magazine's website that Pope Benedict XVI's words to Nancy Pelosi were "intrusive" in legal matters, because they put the whole judicial system in an impossible moral dilemma.
In his piece Prof. Kmiec implied that the Pope exaggerated or at least did not measure the consequences of his words when he told Nancy Pelosi that "jurists," in addition to legislators, must work "in cooperation with all men and women of good will in creating a just system of laws capable of protecting human life at all stages of its development."
According to Kmiec, such a statement “has the potential, at least theoretically, to empty the U.S. Supreme Court of all five of its Catholic jurists, and perhaps all other Catholics who sit on the bench in the lower federal and state courts.”
The Pepperdine professor suggests the Pope, instead, could take "a different, less intrusive course," by "continuing to observe the difference between a jurist and a legislator."
MORE
Carl from InsideScoop has the rebuttal
If I understand Douglas W. Kmiec's argument correctly...
John Angotti - At St.Paul the Apostle Church
If you're in the Los Angeles, South land on Saturday, March 1 2009 for the Catholic Conference in Anaheim, don't miss the FREE Concert with John Angotti & JAMM, at our parish, just a short drive from the Anaheim Convention Center.
Also our very own, home grown band, 5 Damascus Road will be opening for John.
Those attending the Conferences will be paying a fee to get in to see John Angotti play. It's FREE at our parish.
Hamburgers and Hot Dogs will be served as well as cookies, coffee and other refreshments. So come one come all enjoy an evening of some great contemporary Christian Praise and Worship music.
JOHN ANGOTTI BIO:
Saint Paul the Apostle’s Men’s Fellowship is working on a wonderful project that we hope you will want to be a part of!
On Sunday March 1, 2009 Saint Paul the Apostle will host a lively and captivating musical concert featuring an array of contemporary Christian and secular favorites as performed by musical artist John Angotti. He will be performing songs from all five of his CDs currently available for sale at www.JohnAngotti.com.
John Angotti as a full time music missionary travels throughout many parts of the world providing
inspirational music to all ages through concerts, workshops, retreats, missions, conferences, and worship.
John has won numerous awards including, "Male Vocalist of the Year," "Pop/Contemporary," and "Praise and Worship Album of the Year" from the United Christian Music and Video Association. His powerful voice and writing style includes contemporary rock, pop, and Latin rhythms, along with his ability to give new life to traditional classics in chant and classical genres. Recently, as Pope Benedict XVI visited Washington D.C., John was invited to perform "Stand in the Light" for the pre-Mass celebration, the title of one of his latest recordings.
On Sunday March 1, 2009 Saint Paul the Apostle will host a lively and captivating musical concert featuring an array of contemporary Christian and secular favorites as performed by musical artist John Angotti. He will be performing songs from all five of his CDs currently available for sale at www.JohnAngotti.com.
John Angotti as a full time music missionary travels throughout many parts of the world providing
inspirational music to all ages through concerts, workshops, retreats, missions, conferences, and worship.
John has won numerous awards including, "Male Vocalist of the Year," "Pop/Contemporary," and "Praise and Worship Album of the Year" from the United Christian Music and Video Association. His powerful voice and writing style includes contemporary rock, pop, and Latin rhythms, along with his ability to give new life to traditional classics in chant and classical genres. Recently, as Pope Benedict XVI visited Washington D.C., John was invited to perform "Stand in the Light" for the pre-Mass celebration, the title of one of his latest recordings.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
D'Souza vs. Hitchens Debate Video - CU Boulder, Colorado
The video is up on the St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Center website
I haven't had a chance to view it yet, however I wanted to pass the word.
Pelosi back to CCD class...
Well, Ms. Pelosi attended CCD yesterday and guess who the teacher was?
Yup! Non other than our Holy Father Pope Benedict. Actually she's very fortunate in that any catholic would love to have the Holy Father as their personal instructor.
She's quite lucky it wasn't Sister Mary Eleen from the 1950's. That ruler could be painful on the knuckles.
Amp - Pelosi gets more than a photo-op
Vatican released statement
Pope tells Pelosi Catholics oppose abortion
Benedict XVI vs. Nancy Pelosi
Yup! Non other than our Holy Father Pope Benedict. Actually she's very fortunate in that any catholic would love to have the Holy Father as their personal instructor.
She's quite lucky it wasn't Sister Mary Eleen from the 1950's. That ruler could be painful on the knuckles.
Amp - Pelosi gets more than a photo-op
Vatican released statement
Pope tells Pelosi Catholics oppose abortion
Benedict XVI vs. Nancy Pelosi
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Lincoln's Birthday - 200 yr Celebration
Many, as I do, look to President Lincoln as a true source of leadership in the office of the U.S. Presidency. The hard administration he lead, the Civil War, the divided nation.
Yet with his leadership, the nation showed it's ability to weather a major turning point, a mere 100 years from it's founding.
Yet with his leadership, the nation showed it's ability to weather a major turning point, a mere 100 years from it's founding.
While many today, especially in the MSM, have and will continue to force a resemblance of President Obama with that of President Lincoln, that illusion is just that... an illusion.
President Lincoln stand by himself, a model for all those that hold the office of the people.
Take a few minutes on this 200 yr birthday of Abraham Lincoln to review three of his greatest speeches. We need more leaders like him. A man not only of words but of substance.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
AP wants compensation for Artist rendition of Obama
(PHOTO: AP & Shepard Fairey...p.s. please don't sue me)Most everyone has seen this artistic rendition of Obama (... usually on the back of a Prius).
Well it appears that the Artist, Shepard Fairey from Los Angeles, who created the colorful creation from an AP photo taken by a Mannie Garcia, is being sue by.... well the AP.
Seems the news agency want it cut of this pie from this overnight sensation image.
Should they? Did the artist change the photo enough?
Calif. artist sues AP over image of Obama
An artist who created a famous image of Barack Obama before he became president sued The Associated Press on Monday, asking a judge to find that his use of an AP photo in creating the poster did not violate copyright law.
Stimulus Bill - Health Care Provision
This is really scary.
Yesterday I listened to President Obama give his first press conference since entering office. He generally beat the bully-pulpit with his 8 minute speak and about 55 minutes of Q&A, supporting the passage of the proposed Stimulus bill.
He basically said, there is no reason not to pass this bill and those that don't want to are ones that want to do nothing.
There many be some that have this ideology, that is to do nothing and let the crisis work itself out.
I am not one of those.
I do believe like the majority opposed to the immediate passage of this bill, that more time is needed to see what exactly is in it.
With a read of this article, I bring to your attention why congress needs to vote NO on this stimulus bill, until we have a full understanding of it's contents.
Just one example of what's deep inside this bill is a provision for health care.
Ruin Your Health With the Obama Stimulus Plan: Betsy McCaughey
...
Senators should read these provisions and vote against them because they are dangerous to your health. (Page numbers refer to H.R. 1 EH, pdf version).
The bill’s health rules will affect “every individual in the United States” (445, 454, 479). Your medical treatments will be tracked electronically by a federal system. Having electronic medical records at your fingertips, easily transferred to a hospital, is beneficial. It will help avoid duplicate tests and errors.
But the bill goes further. One new bureaucracy, the National Coordinator of Health Information Technology, will monitor treatments to make sure your doctor is doing what the federal government deems appropriate and cost effective. The goal is to reduce costs and “guide” your doctor’s decisions (442, 446). These provisions in the stimulus bill are virtually identical to what Daschle prescribed in his 2008 book, “Critical: What We Can Do About the Health-Care Crisis.” According to Daschle, doctors have to give up autonomy and “learn to operate less like solo practitioners.”
Keeping doctors informed of the newest medical findings is important, but enforcing uniformity goes too far.
New Penalties
Hospitals and doctors that are not “meaningful users” of the new system will face penalties. “Meaningful user” isn’t defined in the bill. That will be left to the HHS secretary, who will be empowered to impose “more stringent measures of meaningful use over time” (511, 518, 540-541)
What penalties will deter your doctor from going beyond the electronically delivered protocols when your condition is atypical or you need an experimental treatment? The vagueness is intentional. In his book, Daschle proposed an appointed body with vast powers to make the “tough” decisions elected politicians won’t make.
The stimulus bill does that, and calls it the Federal Coordinating Council for Comparative Effectiveness Research (190-192). The goal, Daschle’s book explained, is to slow the development and use of new medications and technologies because they are driving up costs. He praises Europeans for being more willing to accept “hopeless diagnoses” and “forgo experimental treatments,” and he chastises Americans for expecting too much from the health-care system.
The elderly will be hit the hardest. And Catholic Hospitals will feel the hand of the government is regards to the abortion issue.
Yesterday I listened to President Obama give his first press conference since entering office. He generally beat the bully-pulpit with his 8 minute speak and about 55 minutes of Q&A, supporting the passage of the proposed Stimulus bill.
He basically said, there is no reason not to pass this bill and those that don't want to are ones that want to do nothing.
There many be some that have this ideology, that is to do nothing and let the crisis work itself out.
I am not one of those.
I do believe like the majority opposed to the immediate passage of this bill, that more time is needed to see what exactly is in it.
With a read of this article, I bring to your attention why congress needs to vote NO on this stimulus bill, until we have a full understanding of it's contents.
Just one example of what's deep inside this bill is a provision for health care.
Ruin Your Health With the Obama Stimulus Plan: Betsy McCaughey
...
Senators should read these provisions and vote against them because they are dangerous to your health. (Page numbers refer to H.R. 1 EH, pdf version).
The bill’s health rules will affect “every individual in the United States” (445, 454, 479). Your medical treatments will be tracked electronically by a federal system. Having electronic medical records at your fingertips, easily transferred to a hospital, is beneficial. It will help avoid duplicate tests and errors.
But the bill goes further. One new bureaucracy, the National Coordinator of Health Information Technology, will monitor treatments to make sure your doctor is doing what the federal government deems appropriate and cost effective. The goal is to reduce costs and “guide” your doctor’s decisions (442, 446). These provisions in the stimulus bill are virtually identical to what Daschle prescribed in his 2008 book, “Critical: What We Can Do About the Health-Care Crisis.” According to Daschle, doctors have to give up autonomy and “learn to operate less like solo practitioners.”
Keeping doctors informed of the newest medical findings is important, but enforcing uniformity goes too far.
New Penalties
Hospitals and doctors that are not “meaningful users” of the new system will face penalties. “Meaningful user” isn’t defined in the bill. That will be left to the HHS secretary, who will be empowered to impose “more stringent measures of meaningful use over time” (511, 518, 540-541)
What penalties will deter your doctor from going beyond the electronically delivered protocols when your condition is atypical or you need an experimental treatment? The vagueness is intentional. In his book, Daschle proposed an appointed body with vast powers to make the “tough” decisions elected politicians won’t make.
The stimulus bill does that, and calls it the Federal Coordinating Council for Comparative Effectiveness Research (190-192). The goal, Daschle’s book explained, is to slow the development and use of new medications and technologies because they are driving up costs. He praises Europeans for being more willing to accept “hopeless diagnoses” and “forgo experimental treatments,” and he chastises Americans for expecting too much from the health-care system.
The elderly will be hit the hardest. And Catholic Hospitals will feel the hand of the government is regards to the abortion issue.
Friday, February 06, 2009
Another West Coast Blogger... one I Love Dearly
Introducing another West Coast Blogger that I LOVE Dearly..
My daughter has started her own blog. She's a resent college grad with a promising future... and lots to say.
So give her a shout at West Coast Girl 09
WCC +<><
Legionaries of Christ - Father Marcial Maciel
There is lots on the web on the news of the founder of the Leagions of Christ, Fr. Maciel. And there are analysis and chat about it.
I'll just list some of the source:
Catholic Exchange "..dropping of the other shoe" Part I
Legionary Priest Interview - Patrick Madrid blog
AmP - Day 4
Legion regrets Founders conduct - National Catholic Register
I'll just list some of the source:
Catholic Exchange "..dropping of the other shoe" Part I
Legionary Priest Interview - Patrick Madrid blog
AmP - Day 4
Legion regrets Founders conduct - National Catholic Register
Monday, February 02, 2009
Morning Read - Cup of Joe
With the a 'cup of joe' we begin our Monday.
Articles:
Super, Super Bowl - Got to start out with this one...amazing 35 seconds left.
Pro-Life Super Bowl Ad Sacked - Missed opportunity
Obama demands 10% defense cuts - Let's jump into the hard core stuff, better have a donut ready with this article
Two Children Should be Limit, says Green Guru - Jonathaon Porritt, pin-head?
Enrollment in faith-based schools down nearly 20 percent - This was mentioned in our parishes Sunday homily.
Articles:
Super, Super Bowl - Got to start out with this one...amazing 35 seconds left.
Pro-Life Super Bowl Ad Sacked - Missed opportunity
Obama demands 10% defense cuts - Let's jump into the hard core stuff, better have a donut ready with this article
Two Children Should be Limit, says Green Guru - Jonathaon Porritt, pin-head?
Enrollment in faith-based schools down nearly 20 percent - This was mentioned in our parishes Sunday homily.
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