Christ is Born!
Merry Christmas from the West Coast (California)!
WCC+<><
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
Monday, December 24, 2007
Christmas Eve: As we await the Birth of Jesus
...the journey's end is almost here.Come O Come Emmanuel...
Peace to everyone...
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Friday, December 14, 2007
B16 Global Warming: Quick Note
I read the speech transcript of B16's New Years talk: For the Celebration of the World of Peace.
Yes, it mentions a paragraph or two about the environment. In the two paragraphs he states some very important points about being lead astray by those with an ideological design agenda, using scare tactics etc...
He states the importance of stewardship and how we must take care of the earth and it's resources.But, I hope that's not the only message that gets taken from this speech. It seem to be the focus of the MSM (Main Stream Media).
There is the important message of the family. The family at the Cell level ( the family at home, Mom, Dad, Children) to the family of the Community, to the family of the Nation, to the Global family and how the all interconnect.
That's the true message of the speech and one that I hope doesn't get missed.
I admit that the Global Warming aspect was the reason I initially read it. And it may be the reason most will attempt to peruse the transcript. But please don't skip over the other paragraphs just to see what B16 thinks of Gore's truth.
Read the entire piece in it's total context. The message is beautiful.
Yes, it mentions a paragraph or two about the environment. In the two paragraphs he states some very important points about being lead astray by those with an ideological design agenda, using scare tactics etc...
He states the importance of stewardship and how we must take care of the earth and it's resources.But, I hope that's not the only message that gets taken from this speech. It seem to be the focus of the MSM (Main Stream Media).
There is the important message of the family. The family at the Cell level ( the family at home, Mom, Dad, Children) to the family of the Community, to the family of the Nation, to the Global family and how the all interconnect.
That's the true message of the speech and one that I hope doesn't get missed.
I admit that the Global Warming aspect was the reason I initially read it. And it may be the reason most will attempt to peruse the transcript. But please don't skip over the other paragraphs just to see what B16 thinks of Gore's truth.
Read the entire piece in it's total context. The message is beautiful.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
B16 - Global Warming Prophets
Pope Benedict XVI injected some sanity to the Gobal warming issue. I think this is one of his clearist wording to date on GW.
Many have speculated adding their own interpretation of B16's thoughts.
...I'm just going to post what he said.
Vatican City, Dec 11, 2007 / 11:03 am (CNA).- Pope Benedict XVI called upon the international community today to protect the family at all costs because it is “the first and indispensable teacher of peace.” He also insisted that whoever undermines the family, attacks peace in the entire community.
The Holy Father’s message was made public in preparation for the upcoming 41st World Day of Peace, which will be celebrated on January 1, 2008.
Before launching into his explanation of why the family must be protected, the Pope defined the family saying that it is “’a divine institution that stands at the foundation of life of the human person as the prototype of every social order'."
Benedict XVI insisted that, "the family is the first and indispensable teacher of peace," and it is also, "the foundation of society ... because it enables its members in decisive ways to experience peace. It follows that the human community cannot do without the service provided by the family," the Pope emphasized.
Referencing the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Pope Benedict reminded everyone that the family is entitled to protection from society and the State.
“Consequently,” the Pope said, "whoever, even unknowingly, circumvents the institution of the family undermines peace in the entire community, national and international, since he weakens what is in effect the primary agency of peace.”
The Holy Father also stressed that “[e]verything that serves to weaken the family based on the marriage of a man and a woman, everything that directly or indirectly stands in the way of its openness to the responsible acceptance of a new life, everything that obstructs its right to be primarily responsible for the education of its children, constitutes an objective obstacle on the road to peace."
While some people live with the attitude that mankind lives alongside one another purely by chance, the Pope explained that the Christian worldview is one in which society is “progressing along a common path as men and women, and thus as brothers and sisters.” Without the family, Benedict said, “society is a mere aggregation of neighbors, not a community of brothers and sisters called to form one great family."
Needs of the Family Must be Protected
The earth is the home of the human family, says the Holy Father, highlighting the need "to care for the environment" which "has been entrusted to men and women to be protected and cultivated with responsible freedom, with the good of all as a constant guiding criterion.”
The Pope was careful to explain that, contrary to the attitude of some environmentalists, “[h]uman beings, obviously, are of supreme worth vis-a-vis creation as a whole.” “Respecting the environment does not mean considering material or animal nature more important than man," the Holy Father said.
Out of concern for those countries that struggle to afford protecting the environment, Pope Benedict said, “[i]f the protection of the environment involves costs, they should be justly distributed, taking due account of the different levels of development of various countries and the need for solidarity with future generations."
Critiquing unbridled capitalism, the Holy Father said that “the moral obligation to ensure that the economy is not governed solely by the ruthless laws of instant profit,” must be noted.
Natural Law Must Become the International Norm
Benedict XVI writes: "A family lives in peace if all its members submit to a common standard: this is what prevents selfish individualism and brings individuals together, fostering their harmonious coexistence and giving direction to their work. ... For the sake of peace, a common law is needed, one which would foster true freedom rather than blind caprice, and protect the weak from oppression by the strong. ... Power must always be disciplined by law, and this applies also to relations between sovereign States."
This law, the Pope suggested, should be “the moral norm grounded in nature itself." He also insisted that knowledge of this natural moral norm is possible if men strive to reflect on the “deepest inclinations present in their being.”
Pope Benedict XVI explained that in the increasingly globalized society of today, establishing an international moral law depends on “a constant commitment to strengthen the profound human content of international norms, lest they be reduced to mere procedures, easily subject to manipulation for selfish or ideological reasons."
We Must Respond to Difficult Times
"Humanity today is unfortunately experiencing great division and sharp conflicts which cast dark shadows on its future," the Pope observed.
In this context, the Pope underlined how "the danger of an increase in the number of countries possessing nuclear weapons causes well-founded apprehension," while in Africa there are still "many civil wars" and "the Middle East is still a theatre of conflict and violence, which also affects neighboring nations and regions and risks drawing them into the spiral of violence. On a broader scale, one must acknowledge with regret the growing number of States engaged in the arms race."
"In difficult times such as these…At a time when the process of nuclear non-proliferation is at a stand-still, I feel bound to entreat those in authority to resume with greater determination negotiations for a progressive and mutually agreed dismantling of existing nuclear weapons," Benedict XVI exhorted.
Pope Benedict concluded his message by recalling three special anniversaries: "Sixty years ago the United Nations Organization solemnly issued the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. ... This year also marks the 25th anniversary of the Holy See's adoption of the Charter of the Rights of the Family and the 40th anniversary of the celebration of the first World Day of Peace."
"In the light of these significant anniversaries, I invite every man and woman to have a more lively sense of belonging to the one human family, and to strive to make human coexistence increasingly reflect this conviction, which is essential for the establishment of true and lasting peace. I likewise invite believers to implore tirelessly from God the great gift of peace," the Holy Father said.
Thanks B16...
WCC +<><
Many have speculated adding their own interpretation of B16's thoughts.
...I'm just going to post what he said.
Vatican City, Dec 11, 2007 / 11:03 am (CNA).- Pope Benedict XVI called upon the international community today to protect the family at all costs because it is “the first and indispensable teacher of peace.” He also insisted that whoever undermines the family, attacks peace in the entire community.
The Holy Father’s message was made public in preparation for the upcoming 41st World Day of Peace, which will be celebrated on January 1, 2008.
Before launching into his explanation of why the family must be protected, the Pope defined the family saying that it is “’a divine institution that stands at the foundation of life of the human person as the prototype of every social order'."
Benedict XVI insisted that, "the family is the first and indispensable teacher of peace," and it is also, "the foundation of society ... because it enables its members in decisive ways to experience peace. It follows that the human community cannot do without the service provided by the family," the Pope emphasized.
Referencing the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Pope Benedict reminded everyone that the family is entitled to protection from society and the State.
“Consequently,” the Pope said, "whoever, even unknowingly, circumvents the institution of the family undermines peace in the entire community, national and international, since he weakens what is in effect the primary agency of peace.”
The Holy Father also stressed that “[e]verything that serves to weaken the family based on the marriage of a man and a woman, everything that directly or indirectly stands in the way of its openness to the responsible acceptance of a new life, everything that obstructs its right to be primarily responsible for the education of its children, constitutes an objective obstacle on the road to peace."
While some people live with the attitude that mankind lives alongside one another purely by chance, the Pope explained that the Christian worldview is one in which society is “progressing along a common path as men and women, and thus as brothers and sisters.” Without the family, Benedict said, “society is a mere aggregation of neighbors, not a community of brothers and sisters called to form one great family."
Needs of the Family Must be Protected
The earth is the home of the human family, says the Holy Father, highlighting the need "to care for the environment" which "has been entrusted to men and women to be protected and cultivated with responsible freedom, with the good of all as a constant guiding criterion.”
The Pope was careful to explain that, contrary to the attitude of some environmentalists, “[h]uman beings, obviously, are of supreme worth vis-a-vis creation as a whole.” “Respecting the environment does not mean considering material or animal nature more important than man," the Holy Father said.
Out of concern for those countries that struggle to afford protecting the environment, Pope Benedict said, “[i]f the protection of the environment involves costs, they should be justly distributed, taking due account of the different levels of development of various countries and the need for solidarity with future generations."
Critiquing unbridled capitalism, the Holy Father said that “the moral obligation to ensure that the economy is not governed solely by the ruthless laws of instant profit,” must be noted.
Natural Law Must Become the International Norm
Benedict XVI writes: "A family lives in peace if all its members submit to a common standard: this is what prevents selfish individualism and brings individuals together, fostering their harmonious coexistence and giving direction to their work. ... For the sake of peace, a common law is needed, one which would foster true freedom rather than blind caprice, and protect the weak from oppression by the strong. ... Power must always be disciplined by law, and this applies also to relations between sovereign States."
This law, the Pope suggested, should be “the moral norm grounded in nature itself." He also insisted that knowledge of this natural moral norm is possible if men strive to reflect on the “deepest inclinations present in their being.”
Pope Benedict XVI explained that in the increasingly globalized society of today, establishing an international moral law depends on “a constant commitment to strengthen the profound human content of international norms, lest they be reduced to mere procedures, easily subject to manipulation for selfish or ideological reasons."
We Must Respond to Difficult Times
"Humanity today is unfortunately experiencing great division and sharp conflicts which cast dark shadows on its future," the Pope observed.
In this context, the Pope underlined how "the danger of an increase in the number of countries possessing nuclear weapons causes well-founded apprehension," while in Africa there are still "many civil wars" and "the Middle East is still a theatre of conflict and violence, which also affects neighboring nations and regions and risks drawing them into the spiral of violence. On a broader scale, one must acknowledge with regret the growing number of States engaged in the arms race."
"In difficult times such as these…At a time when the process of nuclear non-proliferation is at a stand-still, I feel bound to entreat those in authority to resume with greater determination negotiations for a progressive and mutually agreed dismantling of existing nuclear weapons," Benedict XVI exhorted.
Pope Benedict concluded his message by recalling three special anniversaries: "Sixty years ago the United Nations Organization solemnly issued the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. ... This year also marks the 25th anniversary of the Holy See's adoption of the Charter of the Rights of the Family and the 40th anniversary of the celebration of the first World Day of Peace."
"In the light of these significant anniversaries, I invite every man and woman to have a more lively sense of belonging to the one human family, and to strive to make human coexistence increasingly reflect this conviction, which is essential for the establishment of true and lasting peace. I likewise invite believers to implore tirelessly from God the great gift of peace," the Holy Father said.
Thanks B16...
WCC +<><
Friday, December 07, 2007
CalTech: THE GREAT DEBATE
For those interested, a reminder of an event that I will be attending on the campus of CalTech in Pasadena, California.
The Great Debate: Is Religion A Force For Good or Evil? And Can You Be Good Without God?
Sunday, December 9, 2:00p.m.
Beckkman Auditorium, on the CalTech campus
Dinesh D'Souza V. Michael Shermer
Shermer is the founding publisher of SKEPTIC Magazine.
I'm reading Dinesh's book presently: What's So Great About Christianity?
Should be good. See ya there.
WCC +<><
The Great Debate: Is Religion A Force For Good or Evil? And Can You Be Good Without God?
Sunday, December 9, 2:00p.m.
Beckkman Auditorium, on the CalTech campus
Dinesh D'Souza V. Michael Shermer
Shermer is the founding publisher of SKEPTIC Magazine.
I'm reading Dinesh's book presently: What's So Great About Christianity?
Should be good. See ya there.
WCC +<><
An Interview with God....
A friend emailed this to me...
It's pretty cool and inspiring...enjoy
Here's another one
Tuesday, December 04, 2007
Santa's 34 Microsecond Visit
A Friend emailed this to me today...
Ever wonder what would it take for Santa to accomplish his Christmas Eve task?
How much time and how fast does Santa have to fly.
Check this out.
Between Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, Santa Claus's route around the planet includes stops at 2.5 billion homes, assuming that children of all religions receive a present from the jolly man in the red suit, Anders Larsson of the engineering consultancy Sweco told AFP.
"We estimated that there are 48 people per square kilometer (120 per square mile) on Earth, and 20 metres (66 feet) between each home. So if Santa leaves from Kyrgyzstan and travels against the Earth's rotation he has 48 hours to deliver all the presents,"
he said.
Father Christmas has long been believed to reside at the North Pole, although a number of northern towns, including Finnish Rovaniemi, claim to be his true home.
But Sweco's report on Santa's most efficient route -- which takes into account factors like geographic density and the fewest detours -- shows that he wouldn't be able to make his round-the-world trip from there in time.
"He has 34 microseconds at each stop" to slide down the chimney, drop off the presents, nibble on his cookies and milk and hop back on his sleigh, Larsson said.
Santa's reindeer must travel at a speed of 5,800 kilometers (3,604 miles) per second to make the trip on time.
Another report circulating on the Internet suggested however that Santa's sleigh, weighed down with presents and travelling at supersonic speed, would encounter such massive air resistance that the entire contraption would burst into flames and be vaporised within 4.26 thousandths of a second.
The big guy is really moving...
Ever wonder what would it take for Santa to accomplish his Christmas Eve task?
How much time and how fast does Santa have to fly.
Check this out.
Between Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, Santa Claus's route around the planet includes stops at 2.5 billion homes, assuming that children of all religions receive a present from the jolly man in the red suit, Anders Larsson of the engineering consultancy Sweco told AFP.
"We estimated that there are 48 people per square kilometer (120 per square mile) on Earth, and 20 metres (66 feet) between each home. So if Santa leaves from Kyrgyzstan and travels against the Earth's rotation he has 48 hours to deliver all the presents,"
he said.
Father Christmas has long been believed to reside at the North Pole, although a number of northern towns, including Finnish Rovaniemi, claim to be his true home.
But Sweco's report on Santa's most efficient route -- which takes into account factors like geographic density and the fewest detours -- shows that he wouldn't be able to make his round-the-world trip from there in time.
"He has 34 microseconds at each stop" to slide down the chimney, drop off the presents, nibble on his cookies and milk and hop back on his sleigh, Larsson said.
Santa's reindeer must travel at a speed of 5,800 kilometers (3,604 miles) per second to make the trip on time.
Another report circulating on the Internet suggested however that Santa's sleigh, weighed down with presents and travelling at supersonic speed, would encounter such massive air resistance that the entire contraption would burst into flames and be vaporised within 4.26 thousandths of a second.
The big guy is really moving...
Saturday, December 01, 2007
B16 Encyclial: Atheism, Modernism
I've been hearing report after report of the about Holiday Tree vs. Christmas Tree or crosses along the highway to honor fallen police officers or soldiers should be eliminated because the symbol of the cross is offensive to some.
I visit the local bookstores frequently and notice the titles of various books like 'The God delusion', 'What so great about God' or movies like 'The Golden Compass'.
Mmmmm, is it just me or is something going on here with anti-Christianity?
Well, the Pope has responded with his new Encyclical "Spe Salvi" on the theme of Christian Hope.
He addresses the influences of Atheism in our world today.
Encyclical: SPE SALVI (Saved by Hope)
A couple of articles:
Pope Criticizes Atheism in Encyclical
John Allen
Catholic Online
Catholic Analysis Blog
Also, I'm reading a book by Dinesh D'Souza "What's so great about Christianity", worth noting which addresses the topic of Christians and Atheism.
I visit the local bookstores frequently and notice the titles of various books like 'The God delusion', 'What so great about God' or movies like 'The Golden Compass'.
Mmmmm, is it just me or is something going on here with anti-Christianity?
Well, the Pope has responded with his new Encyclical "Spe Salvi" on the theme of Christian Hope.
He addresses the influences of Atheism in our world today.
Encyclical: SPE SALVI (Saved by Hope)
A couple of articles:
Pope Criticizes Atheism in Encyclical
Excerpts from Pope's new encyclical Spe Salvi
Some Analysis:John Allen
Catholic Online
Catholic Analysis Blog
Also, I'm reading a book by Dinesh D'Souza "What's so great about Christianity", worth noting which addresses the topic of Christians and Atheism.
Monday, November 26, 2007
Home to Rome
I read an announcement in my parish Sunday bulletin yesterday and it requested prayers for what could be a very large number of Anglican, Episcopalian church member, coming into the Catholic Church.
The number in the bulletin was around 400,00 although I have not been able to verify that number yet.
I did find this article: 'Will Anglican's Come Home to Rome?
Another article from earlier in the year: 'Churches back plan to Unite under Pope'
The number in the bulletin was around 400,00 although I have not been able to verify that number yet.
I did find this article: 'Will Anglican's Come Home to Rome?
Another article from earlier in the year: 'Churches back plan to Unite under Pope'
The proposals have been agreed by senior bishops of both churches.
Friday, November 23, 2007
Eco Extremism
The story of Eco-Extremism.
Protecting the Environment as servants of God, is one thing. When we take that call to another level, a level beyond the teachings of Christ is another.
Case in point...
Catechism of the Catholic Church:
This thought process of the enviornment over Man (and of course I mean Man and Woman) is so wrong...
Protecting the Environment as servants of God, is one thing. When we take that call to another level, a level beyond the teachings of Christ is another.
Case in point...
Meet the women who won't have babies - because they're not eco friendly
Had Toni Vernelli gone ahead with her pregnancy ten years ago, she would know at first hand what it is like to cradle her own baby, to have a pair of innocent eyes gazing up at her with unconditional love, to feel a little hand slipping into hers - and a voice calling her Mummy.
But the very thought makes her shudder with horror.
...so there you have it. No people is the best way to protect the environment. Don't you think that God would have created the world that way, without the creation of Man, if that was his main objective? A perfect environment more important than Man?Catechism of the Catholic Church:
342 The hierarchy of creatures is expressed by the order of the "six days", from the less perfect to the more perfect. God loves all his creatures209 and takes care of each one, even the sparrow. Nevertheless, Jesus said: "You are of more value than many sparrows", or again: "Of how much more value is a man than a sheep!"210
343 Man is the summit of the Creator's work, as the inspired account expresses by clearly distinguishing the creation of man from that of the other creatures.211
344 There is a solidarity among all creatures arising from the fact that all have the same Creator and are all ordered to his glory: May you be praised, O Lord, in all your creatures, especially brother sun, by whom you give us light for the day; he is beautiful, radiating great splendor, and offering us a symbol of you, the Most High. . .
- May you be praised, my Lord, for sister water, who is very useful and humble, precious and chaste. . .
May you be praised, my Lord, for sister earth, our mother, who bears and feeds us, and produces the variety of fruits and dappled flowers and grasses. . .
Praise and bless my Lord, give thanks and serve him in all humility.212
345 The sabbath - the end of the work of the six days. The sacred text says that "on the seventh day God finished his work which he had done", that the "heavens and the earth were finished", and that God "rested" on this day and sanctified and blessed it.213 These inspired words are rich in profitable instruction:
346 In creation God laid a foundation and established laws that remain firm, on which the believer can rely with confidence, for they are the sign and pledge of the unshakeable faithfulness of God's covenant.214 For his part man must remain faithful to this foundation, and respect the laws which the Creator has written into it.
347 Creation was fashioned with a view to the sabbath and therefore for the worship and adoration of God. Worship is inscribed in the order of creation.215 As the rule of St. Benedict says, nothing should take precedence over "the work of God", that is, solemn worship.216 This indicates the right order of human concerns.
348 The sabbath is at the heart of Israel's law. To keep the commandments is to correspond to the wisdom and the will of God as expressed in his work of creation.
349 The eighth day. But for us a new day has dawned: the day of Christ's Resurrection. The seventh day completes the first creation. The eighth day begins the new creation. Thus, the work of creation culminates in the greater work of redemption. The first creation finds its meaning and its summit in the new creation in Christ, the splendor of which surpasses that of the first creation.217
...further... Is nature more important than Man? Does man have a responsibility of Stewardship?
Respect for the integrity of creation
2415 The seventh commandment enjoins respect for the integrity of creation. Animals, like plants and inanimate beings, are by nature destined for the common good of past, present, and future humanity.195 Use of the mineral, vegetable, and animal resources of the universe cannot be divorced from respect for moral imperatives. Man's dominion over inanimate and other living beings granted by the Creator is not absolute; it is limited by concern for the quality of life of his neighbor, including generations to come; it requires a religious respect for the integrity of creation.196
2416 Animals are God's creatures. He surrounds them with his providential care. By their mere existence they bless him and give him glory.197 Thus men owe them kindness. We should recall the gentleness with which saints like St. Francis of Assisi or St. Philip Neri treated animals.
2417 God entrusted animals to the stewardship of those whom he created in his own image.198 Hence it is legitimate to use animals for food and clothing. They may be domesticated to help man in his work and leisure. Medical and scientific experimentation on animals is a morally acceptable practice if it remains within reasonable limits and contributes to caring for or saving human lives.
2418 It is contrary to human dignity to cause animals to suffer or die needlessly. It is likewise unworthy to spend money on them that should as a priority go to the relief of human misery. One can love animals; one should not direct to them the affection due only to persons.
Not to mention God's command to "Be fruitful and multiply..."This thought process of the enviornment over Man (and of course I mean Man and Woman) is so wrong...
Thursday, November 22, 2007
Happy Thanskgiving !
Happy Thanksgiving to all!.... now turn off that computer and enjoy the company of your family and friends...
WCC +<><
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
A Stem in the Right Direction
Finally, a breakthrough that has the proponents of embryonic stem cell research turning on their ear.
A breakthrough that may change the course of cloning and finally, maybe not stop, at least take a major step away from destroying babies (embryo's).
It’s called “reprogramming.”
Another technical term for it is “somatic cell dedifferentiation.” Just get those terms into your vocabulary because they’ll be around for the foreseeable future. As reported in two scientific papers published today, reprogramming is now the future of stem cell research and renders ethically controversial therapeutic cloning obsolete (MORE).
Another article...
Richard Doerflinger, deputy director of pro-life activities for the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, called the new work "a very significant breakthrough in finding morally unproblematic alternatives to cloning. ... I think this is something that would be readily acceptable to Catholics."
Also this from the Catholic World News...
A new technique for obtaining stem cells could eliminate the public pressure for destructive research on human embryos, a Catholic think-tank reports.
The National Catholic Bioethics Center (NCBC) has welcomed the results of research by Dr. Shinya Yamanaka and Dr. James Thomson, who have found a method of using skin cells to obtain pluripotent stem cells. By "reprogramming" the skin cells, the researchers found that they could reproduce the features that scientists find most desirable in embryonic stem cells.
Research using stem cells obtained from human embryos has met with resistance from Catholic ethicists, since the embryos are destroyed in the process of harvesting the pluripotent stem cells. The Yamanaka-Thomson research promises a means of obtaining stem cells readily without ethical problems.
The new technique "fully conforms to what we have hoped to see for some time," the NCBC announced. "Such strategies should continue to be pursued and strongly promoted, as they should help to steer the entire field of stem cell research in a more explicitly ethical direction by circumventing the moral quagmire associated with destroying human embryos."
Hopefully things are headed in the right direction....
A breakthrough that may change the course of cloning and finally, maybe not stop, at least take a major step away from destroying babies (embryo's).
It’s called “reprogramming.”
Another technical term for it is “somatic cell dedifferentiation.” Just get those terms into your vocabulary because they’ll be around for the foreseeable future. As reported in two scientific papers published today, reprogramming is now the future of stem cell research and renders ethically controversial therapeutic cloning obsolete (MORE).
Another article...
Richard Doerflinger, deputy director of pro-life activities for the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, called the new work "a very significant breakthrough in finding morally unproblematic alternatives to cloning. ... I think this is something that would be readily acceptable to Catholics."
Also this from the Catholic World News...
A new technique for obtaining stem cells could eliminate the public pressure for destructive research on human embryos, a Catholic think-tank reports.
The National Catholic Bioethics Center (NCBC) has welcomed the results of research by Dr. Shinya Yamanaka and Dr. James Thomson, who have found a method of using skin cells to obtain pluripotent stem cells. By "reprogramming" the skin cells, the researchers found that they could reproduce the features that scientists find most desirable in embryonic stem cells.
Research using stem cells obtained from human embryos has met with resistance from Catholic ethicists, since the embryos are destroyed in the process of harvesting the pluripotent stem cells. The Yamanaka-Thomson research promises a means of obtaining stem cells readily without ethical problems.
The new technique "fully conforms to what we have hoped to see for some time," the NCBC announced. "Such strategies should continue to be pursued and strongly promoted, as they should help to steer the entire field of stem cell research in a more explicitly ethical direction by circumventing the moral quagmire associated with destroying human embryos."
Hopefully things are headed in the right direction....
Monday, November 19, 2007
The Human Experience
Wow, I found this on the 'American Papist' blog the other day and I thought I'd pass the info on...
It's about what seems to be an amazing film put out by a small media company in the heart of Brooklyn N.Y.
Grassroots film is the producers of this film .... and you've got to watch the trailer to know what I'm talking about.
American Papist has a great write-up on the film so visit there for the full details
I've got to see how to get this screening in our area...
As AP suggest... pass the word on.
WCC +<><
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Catholics in Iraq
Great news from the front lines. Michael Yon embedded with the troops in Iraq, posts from his ONLINE MAGAZINE the daily happenings from the frontlines.
I'm reminded of the Moses' plea "...How about if there were 50 (faithful)? Would you spare them? How about 40... 20... 10?"
We know Gods' answer.
What is ours?
Friday, November 16, 2007
Catholic - Podcast
I love to read and it seems that I've been having more and more trouble finding the time for this.
I've been listening to books on CD, on my long commute to/from home and that's been working out well.
Another remedy to this lose of reading time, are podcasts. Podcast started out hot and heavy back around 2005 with shows like Adam Curry of MTV fame as well as hundreds, of iPod downloadable shows.
Today I'm not sure just how popular podcasting still is but there are some very good ones that deserve a mention.
I found one Podcast that I'd like to pass on. One called 'Daily Breakfast' created by Father Roderick. It's not your typical catholic content podcast show or blog. Fr. Roderick adds content on many topics, including popular TV shows, movies, maybe a lead story in the news to PS3 games... whatever.
He does answer a question or two on Catholic teaching when an emailer or caller asks, however most of the show is about the everyday common interest of a Catholic Priest ( in the Netherlands no less) who surprisingly ( or not so surprisingly ) has many of the same interest you and I have.
He does answer a question or two on Catholic teaching when an emailer or caller asks, however most of the show is about the everyday common interest of a Catholic Priest ( in the Netherlands no less) who surprisingly ( or not so surprisingly ) has many of the same interest you and I have.If you find yourself with less time to read, check out an episode or two. He's SQPN network is the home of many other similar podcasts. Secrets of the Lord of the Rings, Secrets of the Pirates of the Caribbean & Harry Potter, the Catholic Insider, The Catholic Show, Rosary Army .... to name a few.
Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship
Here it is, the Bishops' document on Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship.
Not too much reation yet, I'm planning to read it this weekend.
WCC
Not too much reation yet, I'm planning to read it this weekend.
WCC
Thursday, November 15, 2007
"Forming Citizens for Faithful Citizenship"
With the election campaigning in full swing, a new document by the U.S. Bishop's conference has been approved and should be available soon.
I hope this document is better than the last document they put out. The last edition was, in my option... weak.
But the good Bishop's promise a completely revised version which "underwent multiple revisions and was brought before the whole bishop' conference for approval". It even passed with a 97.8% approval.
Well, I'm looking forward to reading it, however I remember a couple of years ago our parish men's group purchased a few hundred voter guides from Catholic Answers organization and our diocese decided to prohibit us from distributing them on church property. All this in favor of their then version of this new document (...which was very weak).
Catholic Answers puts out a terrific voters pamphlet which I highly recommend. You can check it out yourself HERE: VOTER'S GUIDE FOR SERIOUS CATHOLICS
The fact that the new document was approved by 97.8% consensus is a good sign. I still would like to know who the three votes against it came from.
Excerpt from CNA article:
Baltimore, Nov 14, 2007 / 11:56 am (CNA).- A new document concerning the duties of Catholic voters has been overwhelmingly approved at the Baltimore meeting of the National Conference of Catholic Bishops this morning. Many of the bishops expressed their belief that this is document is a great improvement over teachings from past years.
Titled "Forming Citizens for Faithful Citizenship," the document is an update to past conference statements of the same name. Unlike previous years, this version underwent multiple revisions and was brought before the whole bishops' conference for approval. The bishops approved the document with 97.8 % in favor and only three votes against it.
Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio of Brooklyn led the presentation of the document to the bishops' conference. He said the document takes its inspiration from Pope Benedict XVI's encyclical "Deus Caritas Est," where the Pope says that the Church “wishes to help form consciences in political life.”
The bishop emphasized that following those words was their goal. "This document is not about bishops and politicians," he said, "it’s about helping Catholics form their consciences."
Excerpt from the U.S. Catholic Bishops on Faithful Citizenship:
WASHINGTON (November 14, 2007)– The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) today overwhelmingly approved a statement called Faithful Citizenship: A Call to Political Responsibility from the Catholic Bishops of the United States. The statement urges Catholics to be involved in public life and to use the values of their faith to shape their political choice. It was approved at the bishops’ general meeting in Baltimore, November 12-15.
“In this statement, we bishops do not intend to tell Catholics for whom or against whom to vote,” the bishops explain. “Our purpose is to help Catholics form their consciences in accordance with God’s truth. We recognize that the responsibility to make choices in political life rests with each individual in light of a properly formed conscience, and that participation goes well beyond casting a vote in a particular election.
”The church’s role in helping Catholics to form their consciences is a central theme of the document. “With this foundation,” the bishops explain, “Catholics are better able to evaluate policy positions, party platforms, and candidates’ promises and action in light of the Gospel and the moral and social teaching of the Church in order to help build a better world.
”The bishops affirm their legitimate role in public life. “The obligation to teach about moral values that should shape our lives, including our public lives, is central to [our] mission,” they state. “Our nation’s tradition of pluralism is enhanced, not threatened, when religious groups and people of faith bring their convictions and concerns into public life.
”Respect for the dignity of every human being is a foundation for Catholic teaching about “faithful citizenship.” The statement explains the necessity of opposing actions that are intrinsically wrong, such as abortion and euthanasia, because these actions involve directly andintentionally ending an innocent human life. It also affirms the obligation to promote the common good by combating such threats to human life and dignity as hunger, poverty, racism, unjust immigration policies, and unjust war. “Both opposing evil and doing good are essential obligations.”
I'll post a link to the document as soon as I find it.
I hope this document is better than the last document they put out. The last edition was, in my option... weak.
But the good Bishop's promise a completely revised version which "underwent multiple revisions and was brought before the whole bishop' conference for approval". It even passed with a 97.8% approval.
Well, I'm looking forward to reading it, however I remember a couple of years ago our parish men's group purchased a few hundred voter guides from Catholic Answers organization and our diocese decided to prohibit us from distributing them on church property. All this in favor of their then version of this new document (...which was very weak).
Catholic Answers puts out a terrific voters pamphlet which I highly recommend. You can check it out yourself HERE: VOTER'S GUIDE FOR SERIOUS CATHOLICS
The fact that the new document was approved by 97.8% consensus is a good sign. I still would like to know who the three votes against it came from.
Excerpt from CNA article:
Baltimore, Nov 14, 2007 / 11:56 am (CNA).- A new document concerning the duties of Catholic voters has been overwhelmingly approved at the Baltimore meeting of the National Conference of Catholic Bishops this morning. Many of the bishops expressed their belief that this is document is a great improvement over teachings from past years.
Titled "Forming Citizens for Faithful Citizenship," the document is an update to past conference statements of the same name. Unlike previous years, this version underwent multiple revisions and was brought before the whole bishops' conference for approval. The bishops approved the document with 97.8 % in favor and only three votes against it.
Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio of Brooklyn led the presentation of the document to the bishops' conference. He said the document takes its inspiration from Pope Benedict XVI's encyclical "Deus Caritas Est," where the Pope says that the Church “wishes to help form consciences in political life.”
The bishop emphasized that following those words was their goal. "This document is not about bishops and politicians," he said, "it’s about helping Catholics form their consciences."
Excerpt from the U.S. Catholic Bishops on Faithful Citizenship:
WASHINGTON (November 14, 2007)– The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) today overwhelmingly approved a statement called Faithful Citizenship: A Call to Political Responsibility from the Catholic Bishops of the United States. The statement urges Catholics to be involved in public life and to use the values of their faith to shape their political choice. It was approved at the bishops’ general meeting in Baltimore, November 12-15.
“In this statement, we bishops do not intend to tell Catholics for whom or against whom to vote,” the bishops explain. “Our purpose is to help Catholics form their consciences in accordance with God’s truth. We recognize that the responsibility to make choices in political life rests with each individual in light of a properly formed conscience, and that participation goes well beyond casting a vote in a particular election.
”The church’s role in helping Catholics to form their consciences is a central theme of the document. “With this foundation,” the bishops explain, “Catholics are better able to evaluate policy positions, party platforms, and candidates’ promises and action in light of the Gospel and the moral and social teaching of the Church in order to help build a better world.
”The bishops affirm their legitimate role in public life. “The obligation to teach about moral values that should shape our lives, including our public lives, is central to [our] mission,” they state. “Our nation’s tradition of pluralism is enhanced, not threatened, when religious groups and people of faith bring their convictions and concerns into public life.
”Respect for the dignity of every human being is a foundation for Catholic teaching about “faithful citizenship.” The statement explains the necessity of opposing actions that are intrinsically wrong, such as abortion and euthanasia, because these actions involve directly andintentionally ending an innocent human life. It also affirms the obligation to promote the common good by combating such threats to human life and dignity as hunger, poverty, racism, unjust immigration policies, and unjust war. “Both opposing evil and doing good are essential obligations.”
I'll post a link to the document as soon as I find it.
The Big One...That Didn't Get Away
Photo Slide Show...
I saw this slide show this morning over coffee... and thought I'd pass it on
Link: SLIDESHOW
Monday, November 12, 2007
Veteran's Day
I didn't post anything on this special day, however I did want to thank all the men and women of our Armed Forces.
Thanks for all your dedication, perseverance & self sacrifice. Without you there would be no great nation of America.
Thank you also to all the Mothers, Fathers, Brothers and Sisters who have loved one's in the Service of their country.
God Bless you all and thank you.
A daily visit to this link will update you on what is ACTUALLY happening in Iraq: Michael Yon: Online Magazine
...and a personal Salute to a fallen solider: Lt. JP Blecksmaith, USMC who is from my neck of the woods.
WCC
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