Merry Christmas to All!
I'm praying that everyone's Christmas is a joyous, peaceful one.
Remember it's Jesus' birthday so ... remember his the guest of honor tomorrow.
.... you last minute shopper, good luck.
WCC +<><
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Global Warming's Next Victim: Christmas Lights
Oh brother....
SCIENTISTS have warned that Christmas lights are bad for the planet due to huge electricity waste and urged people to get energy efficient festive bulbs.CSIRO researchers said householders should know that each bulb turned on in the name of Christmas will increase emissions of greenhouse gases.
Dr Glenn Platt, who leads research on energy demand, said Australia got 80 per cent of its electricity by burning coal which pumps harmful emissions into the atmosphere.
He said: "Energy efficient bulbs, such as LEDs, and putting your Christmas lights on a timer are two very easy ways to minimise the amount of electricity you use to power your lights.
"He said the nation's electricity came from "centralised carbon intensive, coal-based power stations" which were responsible for emitting over one third of Australia's greenhouse gas emissions.
Dr Platt added: "For a zero-emission Christmas light show, you may consider using solar powered lights or sourcing your electricity from verified green power suppliers."
SCIENTISTS have warned that Christmas lights are bad for the planet due to huge electricity waste and urged people to get energy efficient festive bulbs.CSIRO researchers said householders should know that each bulb turned on in the name of Christmas will increase emissions of greenhouse gases.
Dr Glenn Platt, who leads research on energy demand, said Australia got 80 per cent of its electricity by burning coal which pumps harmful emissions into the atmosphere.
He said: "Energy efficient bulbs, such as LEDs, and putting your Christmas lights on a timer are two very easy ways to minimise the amount of electricity you use to power your lights.
"He said the nation's electricity came from "centralised carbon intensive, coal-based power stations" which were responsible for emitting over one third of Australia's greenhouse gas emissions.
Dr Platt added: "For a zero-emission Christmas light show, you may consider using solar powered lights or sourcing your electricity from verified green power suppliers."
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
B16: The Nature (Ecology) of Man
B16 hit it right on the button.
The hype about protecting nature and the effects of 'global warming' are "no more important than protecting the nature of the person".
B16 responds to the worlds abbreviated stand on 'nature', where on one hand the message is to be good stewards of earth and it's resources and extend a firm fisted hand against those they feel abuse and neglect these treasure.
Yet in the same breath do the exact opposite when it comes to the preserving the true 'nature of man'. The ECOLOGY OF MAN, as the good Pope phrases it.
While the media has picked up on the homosexual emphasis of B16's talk, they kind of miss the rest of the message jin my opinion.
Pope Benedict is indeed talking about the term gender, however I also see his point about how man wants to supersede God as the creator in all things. Man wants to re-order the purpose of man, so to speak, in terms of his sexuality, of what man feels is best for him/her outside of God's original intent for man/woman.
The re-ordering of marriage, of 'any-thing-goes' without regard to our Creator.
I just love the way B16 is not afraid to teach. He's not concerned about what others may think in terms of watering down the teaching of Christ
Here's what he said from a reliable source:
Pontiff Calls for "Ecology of Man"
Warns Against New Theories of "Gender"
VATICAN CITY, DEC. 22, 2008 (Zenit.org).- While protecting nature is an essential mission of the Church, it's no more important than protecting the nature of the person, says Benedict XVI.
The Pope spoke today of what he termed an "ecology of man" during his traditional exchange of Christmas greetings with prelates and members of the Roman Curia.
"Given that faith in the Creator is an essential element of the Christian creed, the Church can not and should not limit itself to transmitting to the faithful only the message of salvation," he affirmed. "It also has a responsibility with creation, and it has to fulfill this responsibility in public."
The Pontiff added that while the Church needs to "defend the earth, water, air, as gifts of the creation that belongs to all of us [... ], it must also protect the human being from his own destruction."
MORE
The hype about protecting nature and the effects of 'global warming' are "no more important than protecting the nature of the person".
B16 responds to the worlds abbreviated stand on 'nature', where on one hand the message is to be good stewards of earth and it's resources and extend a firm fisted hand against those they feel abuse and neglect these treasure.
Yet in the same breath do the exact opposite when it comes to the preserving the true 'nature of man'. The ECOLOGY OF MAN, as the good Pope phrases it.
While the media has picked up on the homosexual emphasis of B16's talk, they kind of miss the rest of the message jin my opinion.
Pope Benedict is indeed talking about the term gender, however I also see his point about how man wants to supersede God as the creator in all things. Man wants to re-order the purpose of man, so to speak, in terms of his sexuality, of what man feels is best for him/her outside of God's original intent for man/woman.
The re-ordering of marriage, of 'any-thing-goes' without regard to our Creator.
I just love the way B16 is not afraid to teach. He's not concerned about what others may think in terms of watering down the teaching of Christ
Here's what he said from a reliable source:
Pontiff Calls for "Ecology of Man"
Warns Against New Theories of "Gender"
VATICAN CITY, DEC. 22, 2008 (Zenit.org).- While protecting nature is an essential mission of the Church, it's no more important than protecting the nature of the person, says Benedict XVI.
The Pope spoke today of what he termed an "ecology of man" during his traditional exchange of Christmas greetings with prelates and members of the Roman Curia.
"Given that faith in the Creator is an essential element of the Christian creed, the Church can not and should not limit itself to transmitting to the faithful only the message of salvation," he affirmed. "It also has a responsibility with creation, and it has to fulfill this responsibility in public."
The Pontiff added that while the Church needs to "defend the earth, water, air, as gifts of the creation that belongs to all of us [... ], it must also protect the human being from his own destruction."
MORE
Monday, December 22, 2008
Making a Difference: St Francis House
Here's an example of changing lives. This in the inner city of Brooklyn, New York, St Francis House.
ABOUT:
Breaking the Cycle of PovertyAlmost half of all high school boys have experimented with drugs before the age of thirteen. Many will leave school before the 9th grade, become fathers or become homeless. Some will resort to anything-- begging, crime, prostitution-- just to feed or clothe themselves, just to survive.In 1967, Fr. Benedict Groeschel, C.F.R. founded the St. Francis House. Its mission is to provide a safe haven and highly structured home environment designed to meet the needs of young men who, having run out of alternatives, are looking for a new start in life.
Great Job!. If you'd like to donate please visit the site.
Christmas Movies
A timeless tradition in our household each year has been the viewing of Christmas movie classics.
Many of which most people are familiar with. A Christmas Story with Raphy and his Red Rider B-B gun.
"You'll shoot your eye out!"
There's Bing and White Christmas. That corny scene with Bing and Kaye singing 'Sister, Sister'. And I'm still feel a little toasty watching Vera Ellen's dance scene.
There's Miracle on 34th Street with a little Natalie Wood. "To market, to market to buy a fat pig! Home again, home again, jiggety jig."
I know I've missed a few.
But my all time favorite movie is It's a Wonderful Life. Good'Ol George Bailey and the Savings and Loan. Frank Capra's movie wasn't as big a hit as it should have been back then, but today Christmas wouldn't be the same without it.
Of course there are the hum-buggers...like Mr. Wendall Jamieson of the NYTimes.
“It’s a Wonderful Life” is a terrifying, asphyxiating story about growing up and relinquishing your dreams, of seeing your father driven to the grave before his time, of living among bitter, small-minded people. It is a story of being trapped, of compromising, of watching others move ahead and away, of becoming so filled with rage that you verbally abuse your children, their teacher and your oppressively perfect wife. It is also a nightmare account of an endless home renovation."
A lump of Coal for Mr. Wendell...
Many of which most people are familiar with. A Christmas Story with Raphy and his Red Rider B-B gun.
"You'll shoot your eye out!"
There's Bing and White Christmas. That corny scene with Bing and Kaye singing 'Sister, Sister'. And I'm still feel a little toasty watching Vera Ellen's dance scene.
There's Miracle on 34th Street with a little Natalie Wood. "To market, to market to buy a fat pig! Home again, home again, jiggety jig."
I know I've missed a few.
But my all time favorite movie is It's a Wonderful Life. Good'Ol George Bailey and the Savings and Loan. Frank Capra's movie wasn't as big a hit as it should have been back then, but today Christmas wouldn't be the same without it.
Of course there are the hum-buggers...like Mr. Wendall Jamieson of the NYTimes.
“It’s a Wonderful Life” is a terrifying, asphyxiating story about growing up and relinquishing your dreams, of seeing your father driven to the grave before his time, of living among bitter, small-minded people. It is a story of being trapped, of compromising, of watching others move ahead and away, of becoming so filled with rage that you verbally abuse your children, their teacher and your oppressively perfect wife. It is also a nightmare account of an endless home renovation."
A lump of Coal for Mr. Wendell...
What's Rick Warren's Purpose?
I'll tell you, I've been thinking about how to take Pastor Rick Warren's decision to give the inaugural prayer next month.
My first thoughts were along the line of "how could he do such a thing?"
While my thoughts haven't strayed too much from that line, I did reflect on a possible silver-lining.
If Mr. Warren can use this opportunity, and not necessarily at the inauguration itself, but more throughout Obama's administration, to voice the Pro-Life issue, then I would say it's a good decision.
It's quite obvious what Mr. Obama's agenda is in his selection. 'If I have Rick Warren praying me into office, the Christian community should welcome me with open arms' ... or something like that. Sorry but I just don't buy that he has any real intentions of being mister nice guy to the Christian teachings on abortion.
I know that Christ dinned with the sinners (I would consider myself part of that group) one can only hope that Warren's efforts will be fruitful. We all must pray that it does.
However, only time will tell.
Rick Warren Responds: How Should Warren Then Pray?
"I commend President-elect Obama for his courage to willingly take enormous heat from his base by inviting someone like me, with whom he doesn’t agree on every issue, to offer the Invocation at his historic Inaugural ceremony.
Hopefully individuals passionately expressing opinions from the left and the right will recognize that both of us have shown a commitment to model civility in America.
The Bible admonishes us to pray for our leaders. I am honored by this opportunity to pray God’s blessing on the office of the President and its current and future inhabitant, asking the Lord to provide wisdom to America’s leaders during this critical time in our nation’s history."
MORE
My first thoughts were along the line of "how could he do such a thing?"
While my thoughts haven't strayed too much from that line, I did reflect on a possible silver-lining.
If Mr. Warren can use this opportunity, and not necessarily at the inauguration itself, but more throughout Obama's administration, to voice the Pro-Life issue, then I would say it's a good decision.
It's quite obvious what Mr. Obama's agenda is in his selection. 'If I have Rick Warren praying me into office, the Christian community should welcome me with open arms' ... or something like that. Sorry but I just don't buy that he has any real intentions of being mister nice guy to the Christian teachings on abortion.
I know that Christ dinned with the sinners (I would consider myself part of that group) one can only hope that Warren's efforts will be fruitful. We all must pray that it does.
However, only time will tell.
Rick Warren Responds: How Should Warren Then Pray?
"I commend President-elect Obama for his courage to willingly take enormous heat from his base by inviting someone like me, with whom he doesn’t agree on every issue, to offer the Invocation at his historic Inaugural ceremony.
Hopefully individuals passionately expressing opinions from the left and the right will recognize that both of us have shown a commitment to model civility in America.
The Bible admonishes us to pray for our leaders. I am honored by this opportunity to pray God’s blessing on the office of the President and its current and future inhabitant, asking the Lord to provide wisdom to America’s leaders during this critical time in our nation’s history."
MORE
Saturday, December 20, 2008
80's Flashback
I've been hearing plenty of 80's music lately. I can't believe that era was 20 years ago.
Plenty of memories though and maybe these music video will jar a flashback or two.
Where were you when these were blaring?
How about this one? (I saw this mentioned on LGF
For you rockers of that era...
Plenty of memories though and maybe these music video will jar a flashback or two.
Where were you when these were blaring?
How about this one? (I saw this mentioned on LGF
For you rockers of that era...
A Pause...
I haven't posted for at least a few weeks...
a pause was in order.
...but I'm back so lets hit the play button again.
WCC +<><
a pause was in order.
...but I'm back so lets hit the play button again.
WCC +<><
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
iRobot or Future World?...Whatever
Most people are familiar with the 2004 movie iRobot (Will Smith) and if you're old enough the 1976 move, Futureworld (Yul Brynner). With this next story we could be a step closer to both, in the real world. It's kind of a creepy story of a boy genius ... maybe a very lonely boy genius who applied his brain power to create a 'life-like' robot to assist him with his daily chores and financial book work.
The robot he created also acts as a companion, which is where the creepiness comes in. He has designed his robot to look like a female.
I don't know what to think about this. Robots will obviously take a bigger role in our daily lives as technology progresses and society calls for their need. The military uses them, our auto industry uses them.
I've even seen the type of virtual pets that kids carry around with them and care for them (feed them, play with them... or... they die).
What I do have concern with is the use of robots to take the place of companions, spouses, friends... human companionship. There is so many things wrong with this, I don't have time to post fully on. Just time for a few thoughts.
God's intent was never to substitute the human relationship with a man made mechanical creation. The soul will never be re-created by man and a robot will never have one.
'Death', on T.V.
How would you react to watching a little T.V. at night and maybe coming across a documentary that catches your eye.
Hmmm. A documentary which appears to show the relationship of a very sick husband, tended by his loving wife who is sitting by his bedside.
You think to yourself, "This is touching, a couple sharing the struggles of life, caring for one another".
You remember your wedding vows, "... for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health...
But what you don't (or do) realize is that you're watching an actual 'Suicide' and the husband on screen is passing away right before your eyes..... ON T.V.
Moments before he dies, she asks him: “Can I give you a kiss?”
Craig replies: “Of course” and Mary adds: “I love you.”
Craig says: “I love you, sweetheart, so much.”
Mary then tells him: “Have a safe journey, I will see you some time.”
Such is the case in th U.K.
'Sky Real Lives' aired this documentary with the sanction of the government.
As Catholics we know that Euthanasia is wrong and goes against the teachings of the church.
Euthanasia CCC 2276-2283
Euthanasia
2276 Those whose lives are diminished or weakened deserve special respect. Sick or handicapped persons should be helped to lead lives as normal as possible.
2277 Whatever its motives and means, direct euthanasia consists in putting an end to the lives of handicapped, sick, or dying persons. It is morally unacceptable.
Thus an act or omission which, of itself or by intention, causes death in order to eliminate suffering constitutes a murder gravely contrary to the dignity of the human person and to the respect due to the living God, his Creator. The error of judgment into which one can fall in good faith does not change the nature of this murderous act, which must always be forbidden and excluded.
2278 Discontinuing medical procedures that are burdensome, dangerous, extraordinary, or disproportionate to the expected outcome can be legitimate; it is the refusal of "over-zealous" treatment. Here one does not will to cause death; one's inability to impede it is merely accepted. The decisions should be made by the patient if he is competent and able or, if not, by those legally entitled to act for the patient, whose reasonable will and legitimate interests must always be respected.
2279 Even if death is thought imminent, the ordinary care owed to a sick person cannot be legitimately interrupted. The use of painkillers to alleviate the sufferings of the dying, even at the risk of shortening their days, can be morally in conformity with human dignity if death is not willed as either an end or a means, but only foreseen and tolerated as inevitable Palliative care is a special form of disinterested charity. As such it should be encouraged.
Suicide
2280 Everyone is responsible for his life before God who has given it to him. It is God who remains the sovereign Master of life. We are obliged to accept life gratefully and preserve it for his honor and the salvation of our souls. We are stewards, not owners, of the life God has entrusted to us. It is not ours to dispose of.
2281 Suicide contradicts the natural inclination of the human being to preserve and perpetuate his life. It is gravely contrary to the just love of self. It likewise offends love of neighbor because it unjustly breaks the ties of solidarity with family, nation, and other human societies to which we continue to have obligations. Suicide is contrary to love for the living God.
2282 If suicide is committed with the intention of setting an example, especially to the young, it also takes on the gravity of scandal. Voluntary co-operation in suicide is contrary to the moral law.
Grave psychological disturbances, anguish, or grave fear of hardship, suffering, or torture can diminish the responsibility of the one committing suicide.
2283 We should not despair of the eternal salvation of persons who have taken their own lives. By ways known to him alone, God can provide the opportunity for salutary repentance. The Church prays for persons who have taken their own lives.
See also Pain: CCC 164, 272, 376, 385, 1431, 1435, 1460, 1490, 1521, 1607, 1609
Link: Catechism of the Catholic Church
Yet this (Euthanasia) is not just happening in the U.K., it's actually legal in Oregon.
Here are some stat's on 'Assisted Suicide Laws'
Currently, 35 STATES have statutes explicitly criminalizing assisted suicide :
Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, Wisconsin
NINE states criminalize assisted suicide through common law:
Alabama, Idaho, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nevada, South Carolina, Vermont, West Virginia
THREE states have abolished the common law of crimes and do not have statutes criminalizing assisted suicide :
North Carolina, Utah, Wyoming
In Ohio, that state's supreme court ruled in October 1996 that assisted suicide is not a crime.
In Virginia, there is no real clear case law on assisted suicide , nor is there is a statute criminalizing the act, although there is a statute which imposes civil sanctions on persons assisting in a suicide.
Only Oregon permits physician- assisted suicide.
Source: Associated Press.Provided by Infonet List is a daily compilation of pro-life news and educational information.
It seems more and more we are becoming a society of 'the easy way out' as evident with now numerous bailouts, corporations and mortgages.
With euthanasia I would actually catagorize this and 'the easy way out' most of the time it's centered around some sickness/pain related circumstance.
No one likes pain.
Yet, when look to Our Lord for answers, we can see by his life's example, his answer is there before us.
In today's Gospel reading from Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus tells us:
“Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened,and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me,for I am meek and humble of heart;and you will find rest for yourselves.For my yoke is easy, and my burden light.”
Euthanasia is not the answer...
Hmmm. A documentary which appears to show the relationship of a very sick husband, tended by his loving wife who is sitting by his bedside.
You think to yourself, "This is touching, a couple sharing the struggles of life, caring for one another".
You remember your wedding vows, "... for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health...
But what you don't (or do) realize is that you're watching an actual 'Suicide' and the husband on screen is passing away right before your eyes..... ON T.V.
Moments before he dies, she asks him: “Can I give you a kiss?”
Craig replies: “Of course” and Mary adds: “I love you.”
Craig says: “I love you, sweetheart, so much.”
Mary then tells him: “Have a safe journey, I will see you some time.”
Such is the case in th U.K.
'Sky Real Lives' aired this documentary with the sanction of the government.
As Catholics we know that Euthanasia is wrong and goes against the teachings of the church.
Euthanasia CCC 2276-2283
Euthanasia
2276 Those whose lives are diminished or weakened deserve special respect. Sick or handicapped persons should be helped to lead lives as normal as possible.
2277 Whatever its motives and means, direct euthanasia consists in putting an end to the lives of handicapped, sick, or dying persons. It is morally unacceptable.
Thus an act or omission which, of itself or by intention, causes death in order to eliminate suffering constitutes a murder gravely contrary to the dignity of the human person and to the respect due to the living God, his Creator. The error of judgment into which one can fall in good faith does not change the nature of this murderous act, which must always be forbidden and excluded.
2278 Discontinuing medical procedures that are burdensome, dangerous, extraordinary, or disproportionate to the expected outcome can be legitimate; it is the refusal of "over-zealous" treatment. Here one does not will to cause death; one's inability to impede it is merely accepted. The decisions should be made by the patient if he is competent and able or, if not, by those legally entitled to act for the patient, whose reasonable will and legitimate interests must always be respected.
2279 Even if death is thought imminent, the ordinary care owed to a sick person cannot be legitimately interrupted. The use of painkillers to alleviate the sufferings of the dying, even at the risk of shortening their days, can be morally in conformity with human dignity if death is not willed as either an end or a means, but only foreseen and tolerated as inevitable Palliative care is a special form of disinterested charity. As such it should be encouraged.
Suicide
2280 Everyone is responsible for his life before God who has given it to him. It is God who remains the sovereign Master of life. We are obliged to accept life gratefully and preserve it for his honor and the salvation of our souls. We are stewards, not owners, of the life God has entrusted to us. It is not ours to dispose of.
2281 Suicide contradicts the natural inclination of the human being to preserve and perpetuate his life. It is gravely contrary to the just love of self. It likewise offends love of neighbor because it unjustly breaks the ties of solidarity with family, nation, and other human societies to which we continue to have obligations. Suicide is contrary to love for the living God.
2282 If suicide is committed with the intention of setting an example, especially to the young, it also takes on the gravity of scandal. Voluntary co-operation in suicide is contrary to the moral law.
Grave psychological disturbances, anguish, or grave fear of hardship, suffering, or torture can diminish the responsibility of the one committing suicide.
2283 We should not despair of the eternal salvation of persons who have taken their own lives. By ways known to him alone, God can provide the opportunity for salutary repentance. The Church prays for persons who have taken their own lives.
See also Pain: CCC 164, 272, 376, 385, 1431, 1435, 1460, 1490, 1521, 1607, 1609
Link: Catechism of the Catholic Church
Yet this (Euthanasia) is not just happening in the U.K., it's actually legal in Oregon.
Here are some stat's on 'Assisted Suicide Laws'
Currently, 35 STATES have statutes explicitly criminalizing assisted suicide :
Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, Wisconsin
NINE states criminalize assisted suicide through common law:
Alabama, Idaho, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nevada, South Carolina, Vermont, West Virginia
THREE states have abolished the common law of crimes and do not have statutes criminalizing assisted suicide :
North Carolina, Utah, Wyoming
In Ohio, that state's supreme court ruled in October 1996 that assisted suicide is not a crime.
In Virginia, there is no real clear case law on assisted suicide , nor is there is a statute criminalizing the act, although there is a statute which imposes civil sanctions on persons assisting in a suicide.
Only Oregon permits physician- assisted suicide.
Source: Associated Press.Provided by Infonet List is a daily compilation of pro-life news and educational information.
It seems more and more we are becoming a society of 'the easy way out' as evident with now numerous bailouts, corporations and mortgages.
With euthanasia I would actually catagorize this and 'the easy way out' most of the time it's centered around some sickness/pain related circumstance.
No one likes pain.
Yet, when look to Our Lord for answers, we can see by his life's example, his answer is there before us.
In today's Gospel reading from Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus tells us:
“Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened,and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me,for I am meek and humble of heart;and you will find rest for yourselves.For my yoke is easy, and my burden light.”
Euthanasia is not the answer...
Monday, December 08, 2008
Episcopal Diaocese of L.A. : The Crack is propagating
It's been a long time coming but the ever bending Episcopal Diocese of L.A. has a crack that's now widening.
... hundreds of conservative Episcopal congregations in North America formed a breakaway church amid a rift that began with the ordination of a gay bishop in New Hampshire five years ago.
and now this:
The bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Los Angeles has announced that church leaders can bless the unions of same-sex couples as a matter of policy.
Read the story:
Episcopal Diaocese of L.A. officially condones the blessing of gay unions
What will happen to those hundreds of congregations? Maybe a move to the Catholic Church is in order.
... hundreds of conservative Episcopal congregations in North America formed a breakaway church amid a rift that began with the ordination of a gay bishop in New Hampshire five years ago.
and now this:
The bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Los Angeles has announced that church leaders can bless the unions of same-sex couples as a matter of policy.
Read the story:
Episcopal Diaocese of L.A. officially condones the blessing of gay unions
What will happen to those hundreds of congregations? Maybe a move to the Catholic Church is in order.
Friday, December 05, 2008
SmartCar: Smorvette, Smamborghini...
I received this in an email this morning...
Wow this is how you encourage people to buy small, fuel efficient cars!If you're a car 'nut' you have heard of and seen the Smart car, but now there are body kits available to personalize your Smart car!The Smart Car full body kit!!
Go from this...
To These!
Smorvette!
Smaudi A3 AWD!
Smamborghini!
Smorsche!
How about a Smorsche Targa!
And last, but not least,
The Smerrari!
Wow this is how you encourage people to buy small, fuel efficient cars!If you're a car 'nut' you have heard of and seen the Smart car, but now there are body kits available to personalize your Smart car!The Smart Car full body kit!!
Go from this...
To These!
Smorvette!
Smaudi A3 AWD!
Smamborghini!
Smorsche!
How about a Smorsche Targa!
And last, but not least,
The Smerrari!
Thursday, December 04, 2008
Hollywood Stars: "Prop 8 the Video"
Star studded short video protesting the successful passage of Proposition 8 in California, hit the web on Wednesday.
The video attempt to point out that Scripture says a lot of things are bad and that is suppose to mean 'they are acceptable'.
Hmmm... let's see.
Claims Jesus (Jack Black) makes from the video:
Shellfish (shrimp Cocktail) is bad.. the bible says so...
You can sell your daughter into slavery so...
You can even stomp your wife ... according to scripture the video claims.
"Besides", 'Dookie Howser' (Neil Patrick Harris) says. "There's money to be made from gays and lesbians"
So....
Why not support the overturning o Prop 8?!
Wow, what a convincing argument.
NOT!
Since Proposition 8 passed in California, much of Hollywood has been up in arms. Now, they are singing and dancing, too, in a new Web video called "Prop 8: The Musical."
The video was posted Wednesday on FunnyOrDie.com, the video site co-founded by Will Ferrell and Adam McKay. The site has found a niche in getting professional talent to quickly create topical comedy videos.
"Prop 8: The Musical" may be a 3-minute Internet video, but it has a blockbuster cast _ including Jack Black (who plays Jesus), Neil Patrick Harris, John C. Reilly, Andy Richter, Maya Rudolph, Margaret Cho, Rashida Jones and others.
Though Jesus doesn't bring the two sides together, Harris has better luck. He argues gay marriage could save the economy: "Every time a gay or lesbian finds love at the parade, there's money to be made."
Washington State [Seattle]: Making a name for Itself
Yet another story coming out of Washington State. I was unaware of a particular White House tradition that allows the 435 Congressional districts to showcase a decorative Christmas ornament to hang from the official White House Christmas tree.
That sound pretty cool, yet there are those that would twist this time honored tradition for their own ill purpose.
Enter... once again Seattle Washington. The officials of the State selected Deborah Lawrence, a local artist, as the person to represent the beautiful state of Washington with her decorative Christmas bulb.
Description of bulb:
Well, it didn't get the nod from First Lady Bush of course.
What an honor for the State of Washington, the ONLY bulb to be rejected. The good people of Washington deserve better.
Now they have two black eyes.
Maybe they can place that bulb next to the Atheist poster board at the State Capitol.
Here's the Story: Seattle ornament banned from White House Christmas Tree
Artist Statement: Deborah Lawrence
Oh, and a very MERRY CHRISTMAS !
Wednesday, December 03, 2008
Washington State Capitol: Anti-Religion Message Along Side Nativity Scene
Just want are the Washington State officials thinking about?!The sign above was posted along side the nativity scene and holiday tree as a symbol for atheist. While everyone would recognize the nativity scene, holiday tree and the menorah as symbols, I'm baffled that the State officials would consider this sign a 'symbol'.
It is blatantly an anti-religion statement designed to offend.
Seems I'm not the only one with this opinion: Complaints
This is what happens when 'let's please everyone' runs amuck! No rules, everything is acceptable!
Anti-religious sign at state Capitol raises eyebrows
OLYMPIA, Wash. - An atheist group has unveiled an anti-religion placard in the state Capitol, joining a Christian Nativity scene and "holiday tree" on display during December.
The atheists' sign was installed Monday by Washington members of the Freedom From Religion Foundation, a national group based in Madison, Wis.
West Coast Priest: Obama-Voters should Confess
Now there's a second priest, on the west coast this time, that is reported to have told his parishioners to the sin of voting for Obama.
AmP breaks down the AP report.
Second priest says Obama-voters should confess
The AP report was so short (and the reporting so horrible) that I have to pick it apart.
My comments in [brackets]:
A Roman Catholic priest has told parishioners they should confess if they voted for Barack Obama because the president-elect supports abortion rights. [I'm sure he asked them to confess the sin of voting for Obama, not confess that they voted for him.]
The Rev. Joseph Illo said parishioners at St. Joseph's Catholic Church shouldn't risk losing their "state of grace" by receiving Communion sacrilegiously. [No, I'm sure the priest said those who commit a mortal sin are thereby deprived of the "state of grace". Seriously, this counts as religion reporting?]
He delivered the message in a Nov. 21 letter and at Mass. [I bet it was a bulletin.]
MORE
AmP breaks down the AP report.
Second priest says Obama-voters should confess
The AP report was so short (and the reporting so horrible) that I have to pick it apart.
My comments in [brackets]:
A Roman Catholic priest has told parishioners they should confess if they voted for Barack Obama because the president-elect supports abortion rights. [I'm sure he asked them to confess the sin of voting for Obama, not confess that they voted for him.]
The Rev. Joseph Illo said parishioners at St. Joseph's Catholic Church shouldn't risk losing their "state of grace" by receiving Communion sacrilegiously. [No, I'm sure the priest said those who commit a mortal sin are thereby deprived of the "state of grace". Seriously, this counts as religion reporting?]
He delivered the message in a Nov. 21 letter and at Mass. [I bet it was a bulletin.]
MORE
Tuesday, December 02, 2008
Will the Real St. Paul Please Stand Up....
Great article on St. Paul from Jimmy Akin.
We're doing a short study on St. Paul and the Sacraments by Fr. Pacwa in our Men's Group at our parish...
Two From Benedict
Since 1963 there has been a growing debate in Protestant circles regarding the way in which St. Paul's teachings--particularly regarding justification--are to be understood. A significant number of authors, including Kirster Stendahl, E. P. Sanders, James Dunn, and N. T. Wright, have concluded that the standard accounts of Paul's teaching developed since the Reformation are simply wrong, that they read Paul's conflict with first century Judaizers anachronistically against the Reformers' struggle with the Catholic Church and what they perceived Catholic beliefs to be.
Although these authors have their own opinions about the details of what Paul meant, and while each gives different nuances to their understanding of Paul, there are certain commonalities among their thoughts, and this has given rise to the term "the new perspective on Paul" as a way of naming their school. (Though some of them have said, "the new perspectives on Paul" would be more accurate.)
MORE
We're doing a short study on St. Paul and the Sacraments by Fr. Pacwa in our Men's Group at our parish...
Two From Benedict
Since 1963 there has been a growing debate in Protestant circles regarding the way in which St. Paul's teachings--particularly regarding justification--are to be understood. A significant number of authors, including Kirster Stendahl, E. P. Sanders, James Dunn, and N. T. Wright, have concluded that the standard accounts of Paul's teaching developed since the Reformation are simply wrong, that they read Paul's conflict with first century Judaizers anachronistically against the Reformers' struggle with the Catholic Church and what they perceived Catholic beliefs to be.
Although these authors have their own opinions about the details of what Paul meant, and while each gives different nuances to their understanding of Paul, there are certain commonalities among their thoughts, and this has given rise to the term "the new perspective on Paul" as a way of naming their school. (Though some of them have said, "the new perspectives on Paul" would be more accurate.)
MORE
Memorials to Communist Tyrants...
Do they teach history in school anymore?
I mean, truthful history, not re-written history. I wonder this anytime I see a teen with a 'Che' tee-shirt on.
New York City's Useful Idiots
New York City, it seems, wants to be second to none in public memorials to Communist tyrants. After all, Seattle has a statue of Lenin adorning its waterfront, and San Francisco has a statue and plaque honoring the veterans of the Abraham Lincoln Brigade at the heart of the tourist center in the city’s waterfront park.
New York City already has a banner depicting Stalin hanging from The Cooper Union, in whose great hall Abraham Lincoln once spoke.
MORE
I mean, truthful history, not re-written history. I wonder this anytime I see a teen with a 'Che' tee-shirt on.
New York City's Useful Idiots
New York City, it seems, wants to be second to none in public memorials to Communist tyrants. After all, Seattle has a statue of Lenin adorning its waterfront, and San Francisco has a statue and plaque honoring the veterans of the Abraham Lincoln Brigade at the heart of the tourist center in the city’s waterfront park.
New York City already has a banner depicting Stalin hanging from The Cooper Union, in whose great hall Abraham Lincoln once spoke.
MORE
Obama - B16: FOCA Showdown
WashPost's Jeffery Kuhner sums up the approaching Obama administration maelstrom concerning the 'Freedom Of Choice Act' or 'Freedom to Murder Act' which it should be called.
The question, 'how many divisions does the Pope have?' is the question once asked before (WWII).
With over 54% of U.S. Catholics that voted for Obama, it may seem that some of the division's have replaced their swords and shields with white flags when it comes to the abortion call to arms. With the promised passage of the FOCA , it will differently be more than a few more nails in the 'unborn coffin'.
I'm afraid that the election stand of 'maybe a few less abortions' is going to be one of the most tragic compromise battle cries ever uttered by deceived Catholics.
But, I'm not ready to give up the fight and nor should you. I'd rather be on the side of truth defending the unborn and be out numbered, than be on the side of untruth and in the majority.
Here's Mr. Kuhner's observation's:
KUHNER: Obama vs. Pope Benedict
COMMENTARY:
President-elect Barack Obama's plan to pass the Freedom of Choice Act is setting up a showdown with the Vatican.
"The first thing I will do as president is sign the Freedom of Choice Act," he said at an address before Planned Parenthood on July 17, 2007. And if he does, it will trigger a harsh response from Pope Benedict XVI, as well as a political revolt among practicing American Catholics.
Mr. Obama signing the Freedom of Choice Act (FOCA) "would be the equivalent of a war," a senior Vatican official told Time magazine last week. "It would be like saying, 'We've heard the Catholic Church and we have no interest in their concerns.' " At a recent Baltimore meeting, the U.S. Catholic bishops pledged to challenge Mr. Obama on his defense of abortion rights.
FOCA seeks to codify Roe v. Wade into federal law. It would remove all restrictions on abortion in state statutes - including restraints on late-term abortions and parental notification laws. It would also entrench taxpayer funding of abortion. Moreover, it would compel Catholic health-care facilities to provide the heinous procedure. In short, it constitutes a fundamental assault on basic Catholic doctrine.
MORE
The question, 'how many divisions does the Pope have?' is the question once asked before (WWII).
With over 54% of U.S. Catholics that voted for Obama, it may seem that some of the division's have replaced their swords and shields with white flags when it comes to the abortion call to arms. With the promised passage of the FOCA , it will differently be more than a few more nails in the 'unborn coffin'.
I'm afraid that the election stand of 'maybe a few less abortions' is going to be one of the most tragic compromise battle cries ever uttered by deceived Catholics.
But, I'm not ready to give up the fight and nor should you. I'd rather be on the side of truth defending the unborn and be out numbered, than be on the side of untruth and in the majority.
Here's Mr. Kuhner's observation's:
KUHNER: Obama vs. Pope Benedict
COMMENTARY:
President-elect Barack Obama's plan to pass the Freedom of Choice Act is setting up a showdown with the Vatican.
"The first thing I will do as president is sign the Freedom of Choice Act," he said at an address before Planned Parenthood on July 17, 2007. And if he does, it will trigger a harsh response from Pope Benedict XVI, as well as a political revolt among practicing American Catholics.
Mr. Obama signing the Freedom of Choice Act (FOCA) "would be the equivalent of a war," a senior Vatican official told Time magazine last week. "It would be like saying, 'We've heard the Catholic Church and we have no interest in their concerns.' " At a recent Baltimore meeting, the U.S. Catholic bishops pledged to challenge Mr. Obama on his defense of abortion rights.
FOCA seeks to codify Roe v. Wade into federal law. It would remove all restrictions on abortion in state statutes - including restraints on late-term abortions and parental notification laws. It would also entrench taxpayer funding of abortion. Moreover, it would compel Catholic health-care facilities to provide the heinous procedure. In short, it constitutes a fundamental assault on basic Catholic doctrine.
MORE
L.A. Times On Women's Ordination
LATimes sides with Fr Roy Bourgeois on women's rights for ordination to the priesthood.
Thanks LATimes for setting us Catholics straight.
The scary thing is some (I suppose it 'many') Catholics will agree with this garbage....
Los Angeles Times Blast Catholic teaching...
Upset by the prospect that Father Roy Bourgeois risks excommunication if he does not repudiate his participation in a woman’s ordination, the editors of the Los Angeles Times on Sunday criticized Catholic teaching on women’s ordination. The editorial also took issue with Cardinal Roger Mahony’s recent reminder to parishes that laypeople are not permitted to preach the homily at Mass.
The Times editorial makes no effort to provide an accurate understanding of Church teaching on the impossibility of ordaining women, mentioning only a "traditional view" and claiming that theologians have gradually been turning away from that "view." (To be accurate the editorial should have said that some theologians have abandoned the traditional teaching.) The editorial should be read in light of another recent editorial in the same paper, attacking a new Vatican document that reiterated the prohibition against homosexuals in the priesthood. In each case the Times makes the argument that Catholic teaching clashes with the demands of justice-- an argument that might eventually be used to justify court intervention in Church affairs.
More
LA Times Article: Women & religion
Thanks LATimes for setting us Catholics straight.
The scary thing is some (I suppose it 'many') Catholics will agree with this garbage....
Los Angeles Times Blast Catholic teaching...
Upset by the prospect that Father Roy Bourgeois risks excommunication if he does not repudiate his participation in a woman’s ordination, the editors of the Los Angeles Times on Sunday criticized Catholic teaching on women’s ordination. The editorial also took issue with Cardinal Roger Mahony’s recent reminder to parishes that laypeople are not permitted to preach the homily at Mass.
The Times editorial makes no effort to provide an accurate understanding of Church teaching on the impossibility of ordaining women, mentioning only a "traditional view" and claiming that theologians have gradually been turning away from that "view." (To be accurate the editorial should have said that some theologians have abandoned the traditional teaching.) The editorial should be read in light of another recent editorial in the same paper, attacking a new Vatican document that reiterated the prohibition against homosexuals in the priesthood. In each case the Times makes the argument that Catholic teaching clashes with the demands of justice-- an argument that might eventually be used to justify court intervention in Church affairs.
More
LA Times Article: Women & religion
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