Saturday, February 27, 2010

Catholic News Headlines / Links [2-27-10]

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Devastating, deadly earthquake strikes majority-Catholic Chile; Earthquake sets off tsunami threatening nations around the Pacific Ocean, "roughly a quarter of the globe" [2/27]

Vatican retreat concluded on Saturday [2/27]

Dallas man displaying "a good portion" of his relic collection this weekend in free exhibit; Collection includes cloth from Shroud of Turin and piece of the True Cross [2/27]

President of Pontifical Council for the Family speaks on issues affecting the family; Cardinal pointed to U.S. statistics showing that 90% of homeless people, 72% of adolescent suicides, 60% of rapists, and 85% of youth in jail grew up without a father present; Cardinal also noted negative effects of women working outside the home stating that "The self-realization sought by the woman in a job, in a career, in social success has as a cost the renouncement of the marriage and children" [2/27]

Vatican spokesman says this week's spiritual exercises have been a "profound experience" for the Pope [2/27]

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Friday, February 26, 2010

A Dangerous Road

USCCB President Cardinal Francis E. George recently addressed an "historic gathering" at BYU on the need to "stand together" in the defense of religious freedom. While it is certainly praiseworthy to defend innocent human life and marriage between a man and a woman, one might be forgiven for finding some of his remarks rather troubling. For example, if "true religious freedom" means the right to "influence the public square", how can one ignore the fact that his comments - taken to their logical end - advocate that non-Catholic religions influence laws regarding any number of sinful, immoral actions for which their adherents feel are "rights"? Particularly with regard to Mormons, does he not realize that 'full religious freedom' for them would include polygamy? It is certain that Mormons would practice polygamy today had it not been for laws curbing their "religious freedom". Such restrictions are actually a good thing, are they not? Presumably even the Cardinal would not push for their 'religious freedom' in this matter.

And when the Cardinal says that "government should never stand between its citizens and almighty God", he seems to gloss over the fact that just about every false religion probably believes they are following God's will - even if they are manifestly acting in opposition to it. Clearly, to put a justifiable obstacle between a person and his false conception of God can be the right thing to do - e.g. outlawing polygamy (even if someone thinks God desires it); stopping someone from murdering (even if they think God 'wants' them to kill); etc.

Furthermore, blanket calls for 'religious freedom' with reference to a country's laws seem to ignore the fact that laws based on falsities are not just. Rather, to be just, laws must be based on actual truth. To encourage false religions to exert influence on laws can be a dangerous road to travel. It is only when society's laws are founded upon the teachings of the one religion founded by Jesus Christ - Catholicism - will there be true religious freedom. To argue otherwise is shortsighted.

"Truth has its rights - or, rather, it is truth alone that has the right to claim liberty." (Gueranger)

"[I]t is contrary to reason that error and truth should have equal rights." (Pope Leo XIII, "Libertas Praestantissimum", 1888 A.D.)

"[F]reedom negates and destroys itself, and becomes a factor leading to the destruction of others, when it no longer recognizes and respects its essential link with the truth." (Pope John Paul II)

"[W]hen freedom is detached from objective truth it becomes impossible to establish personal rights on a firm rational basis; and the ground is laid for society to be at the mercy of the unrestrained will of individuals or the oppressive totalitarianism of public authority." (Pope John Paul II)

Related: Truth / Error (Reflections)

[2/26]

Catholic News Headlines / Links [2-26-10]

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Archbishop Dolan says no honors for pro-abort 'Catholic' politicians [2/26]

Pontifical Council for Culture creating foundation to reach out to atheists and agnostics [2/26]

U.S. Bishops' advisory committee to visit Haiti [2/26]

Austrian diocese refuses to pay "hush money" to alleged abuse victim [2/26]

Nebraska lawmakers considering banning abortions when unborn babies can feel pain [2/26]

Rumors: Motu Proprio clarification imminent? Papal "surprise" for Holy Week? [2/26]

Wisconsin diocese to withhold funds from CCHD [2/26]

Bishops in Maryland say they take "strong exception" to attorney general's decision to recognize homosexual 'marriages' from other jurisdictions [2/26]

What happened to the concept of martyrdom? Spanish bishops say King won't incur ecclesiastical penalty for signing law permitting abortion that he is "required" to sign [2/26]

German bishops "accept our responsibility and condemn the crimes committed by religious, priests and lay collaborators in our dioceses" and ask for forgiveness; Office has been opened to deal with abuse cases [2/26]

Parish in France desecrated; Pastor sees signs that crime was the work of professionals [2/26]

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Thursday, February 25, 2010

Catholic News Headlines / Links [2-25-10]

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Catholic Church in Brazil suing Hollywood's Columbia Pictures over unauthorized use of images; Blockbuster movie depicts the destruction of Rio's famous statue of Christ, even though permission to use the image was denied [2/25]

(Warning: Grisly topic) Fr. Pavone wants respectful, public burial 'event' for victims of abortion found in freezer of Philadelphia abortion clinic; Priests for Life director notes that "The disrespect that the abortion industry has for the human body is seen not only in the fact that they kill these children, but also in how they treat their bodies after death" [2/25]

USCCB creates advisory group to assist in "long term development needs of the Church in Haiti" [2/25]

President of Pontifical Academy for Life refuses to resign [2/25]

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Wednesday, February 24, 2010

Cardinal says beatification process for Pope John Paul II is "practically finished"

According to a CNA report, the beatification process for Pope John Paul II is "practically finished". The report quotes the late pope's long-time personal secretary, Cardinal Stanislaw Dziwisz, who spoke at a conference in Colombia. The Polish Cardinal dismissed critics of the speedy beatification process claiming that "one cannot say it has been done poorly." The rapid pace of the process has drawn criticism from some lay Catholics and reportedly concerned at least one Cardinal.

Related: Pope John Paul II "can't do anything"? (1/10) | When a Pope Should Be & Should Not Be Called Great (User-Submitted Article)

[2/24]

Ignorant Australian judge condemns priestly celibacy

A non-Catholic judge in Australia has been sharply rebuked by Catholics after he called for the Catholic Church to end the "cruel, cruel" practice of priestly celibacy. The ignorant judge implied that celibacy may be a factor in clerical abuse and claimed it must be "agonizing" for priests to be celibate. Even an opponent of priestly celibacy admitted that there have been "so many studies that show it's not the vow of celibacy that prompts a man to abuse a child."

"Holy virginity and that perfect chastity which is consecrated to the service of God is without doubt among the most precious treasures which the Founder of the Church has left in heritage to the society which He established." (Pope Pius XII, "Sacra Virginitas", 1954 A.D.)

"Now, however, We want you to rally to combat the abominable conspiracy against clerical celibacy. This conspiracy spreads daily and is promoted by profligate philosophers, some even from the clerical order. They have forgotten their person and office, and have been carried away by the enticements of pleasure. They have even dared to make repeated public demands to the princes for the abolition of that most holy discipline. But it is disgusting to dwell on these evil attempts at length. Rather, We ask that you strive with all your might to justify and to defend the law of clerical celibacy as prescribed by the sacred canons, against which the arrows of the lascivious are directed from every side." (Pope Gregory XVI, "Mirari Vos", 1832 A.D.)

Related: Why Priestly Celibacy? [Note: This article includes refutation of the argument that celibacy has led to the abuse scandals]

[2/24]

Catholic News Headlines / Links [2-24-10]

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Special 80 hour showing of St. Anthony's relics attracts 200,000 people [2/24]

Man impersonating Franciscan monk arraigned in San Mateo County on 19 counts of child molestation; Law enforcement officials say suspect "has a history of posing as a Franciscan monk to gain trust within Catholic communities" [2/24]

Catholic Medical Association issues open letter over healthcare reform [2/24]

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Tuesday, February 23, 2010

Catholic News Headlines / Links [2-23-10]

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Pope appoints new bishops for Ogdensburg & Scranton [2/23]

Jubilee for one thousand year anniversary of Eucharistic miracle in Spain [2/23]

Catholic relief agencies have received over $200M for Haitian earthquake relief efforts [2/23]

Catholic opposition sparks change in textbook [2/23]

Statistics released for Catholic Church in Malta [2/23]

Despite previous statements, President Obama's healthcare proposal includes federal funds for abortion [2/23]

Studies show that children conceived via immoral IVF procedure face elevated risk of birth defects, diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure and possibly infertility [2/23]

-30-

Monday, February 22, 2010

Highlights From 2010 Pontifical Yearbook

The following are some highlights from the 2010 edition of the "Annuario Pontificio" (Pontifical Yearbook)...

* Eight new episcopal sees and one territorial prelature were erected in 2009

* There were 169 new bishops appointed in 2009

* "The number of Catholics in the world increased from around 1,147 million in 2007 to 1,166 million in 2007, an increase of nineteen million faithful which corresponds to a growth of 1.7 percent"

* The number of priests increased over the last nine years from 405,178 in 2000 to 409,166 in 2008

* The number of female religious dropped (markedly) from 801,185 in 2000 to 739,067 in 2008

* Globally there was slight growth in the number of candidates to the priesthood (from 115,919 in 2007 to 117,024 in 2008). There was a decline of 4.3 percent in Europe, "while the situation in America remained unchanged"

Source: Vatican Information Service

[2/22]

Catholic News Headlines / Links [2-22-10]

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2010 Pontifical Yearbook presented to Pope Benedict XVI [2/22]

Author highlights problems with "shamefully unreliable" diocesan newspapers [2/22]

Code for 'no nude body scans'? Pope Benedict tells staff of aviation associations that "it is important never to lose sight of the fact that respecting the primacy of the person and caring for his needs not only does not make service less effective or penalise economic management, but is an important guarantee of true efficiency and authentic quality" [2/22]

Foundation says cost of divorce per taxpayer in U.K. is over $2K annually; Notes that "It is an unpopular truth that choices have consequences and costs, and that these are not always borne by the choice-maker"; Also notes that there are non-financial costs related to divorce - such as health problems, emotional traumas and education problems, whereas stable marriages are shown to benefit families and society in general [2/22]

Holy Father reminds that Lent is a period of spiritual 'combat'; Says that "the world is improved by beginning with ourselves, by changing, with God's grace, what is wrong with our lives" [2/22]

German archbishop apologizes to abuse victims; Says he will discuss the abuse scandal with Pope Benedict in March [2/22]

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Saturday, February 20, 2010

Catholic News Headlines / Links [2-20-10]

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Holy See says number of Catholics rose to 17.4% of global population from 2007 to 2008 [2/20]

Australian Archbishop admits current English translation of the Novus Ordo Mass - used for decades - has "serious problems theologically" [2/20]

Cardinal Bertone calls for higher training standards for priests, quotes Pope Pius' 1852 encyclical to the Irish bishops [2/20]

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Friday, February 19, 2010

Good news: Book signing cancelled

After much criticism, the director of the Catholic Information Center in downtown Washington has cancelled a planned book signing featuring Cokie Roberts. The director, an Opus Dei priest, claimed they were "unaware" that the "notorious dissenter" held views contrary to Church teachings ("We were unaware that some of the positions held by Ms. Cokie Roberts are inimical to the Catholic Faith and the support of our Holy Father that we hold very dear at the Catholic Information Center"). He also claimed to be "grateful" to those who expressed concern over the planned event and offered apologies "to all who may have been troubled by the scheduling of this event and the confusion it may have occasioned."

[2/19]

More good news: Anglican 'bishop' converts

A retired Anglican 'bishop'*, Paul Richardson, has been received into the Catholic Church. The new convert said it was "like coming home".

[* Reminder: Anglican 'clergy' are not true priests - their orders have been ruled invalid by the Church: "Wherefore, strictly adhering, in this matter, to the decrees of the pontiffs, our predecessors, and confirming them most fully, and, as it were, renewing them by our authority, of our own initiative and certain knowledge, we pronounce and declare that ordinations carried out according to the Anglican rite have been, and are, absolutely null and utterly void." (Pope Leo XIII, "Apostolicae Curae", 1896 A.D., emphasis added)]

[2/19]

Study says children adopted by homosexuals may suffer "diverse trauma"

CNA is reporting on a new study which reveals that children adopted by homosexuals may suffer from "diverse trauma and behavioral disorders that can even lead to suicidal tendencies or attempts." The findings, presented at a symposium in Mexico, also suggest that those adopted by homosexuals "show a greater level of stress than that which is already generated by their status as orphans or children abandoned by their biological parents." The president of the Mexican group that organized the symposium said, "according to international experience, based on various studies and research, the conclusion is that in matters of adoption, the rights of the children, not those of the parents, are what should prevail."

"You shall not lie with a male as with a woman; such a thing is an abomination." (Lev. 18:22)

[2/19]

Not again!

To the bewilderment of many Catholics, Pope Benedict is scheduled to visit a Lutheran 'church' on March 14 where he will give a homily along with a Lutheran 'pastor'. Commentary: Permit one to simply close with a wise mother's (surprised) reaction to this planned event: "Why is he doing that?"

"After a first and second warning, break off contact with a heretic, realizing that such a person is perverted and sinful and stands self-condemned." (St. Paul, Ti. 3:10-11)

"The toleration of heretics is more injurious than the devastation of the provinces by the barbarians." (Pope St. Gelasius I, 5th century A.D.)

"No one shall pray in common with heretics and schismatics." (Council of Laodicea, 365 A.D.)

Also See: Heresy (Reflections) | Necessity of Being Catholic For Salvation | Ecumenism Q & A | Guest Article (Figuratively Speaking): "There once was a vacuum cleaner salesman..."

[2/19]

Facts & Figures

Some recent statistics that may be of interest...

* Number of episcopally approved (every Sunday) TLM's according to various blogs: U.S.-289; France-156; Italy-73; Germany-49; U.K.-37; Brazil-42; Switzerland-21; Canada-23; Australia-17; Poland-15.

* Double good news: A Protestant group has released new figures indicating that Catholic Church membership is up while membership in Protestant sects has declined. They claim the Catholic Church has enjoyed a 1.49% growth rate in the past year and stands at 68.1 million members.

Related: Traditional Latin Mass Info. | Necessity of Being Catholic For Salvation

[2/19]

Catholic News Headlines / Links [2-19-10]

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Six blesseds to be canonized on October 17; List includes Canadian Andre Bessette & Australian Mary MacKillop [2/19]

Incredible: USCCB's workshop for new missal translation will include 'lay preaching' advocate even though Canon Law forbids lay persons from giving homily [2/19]

Senior member of Pontifical Academy for Life asks USCCB's news agency for correction; Says CNS (a news agency previously charged with "failure to consistently apply reliably Catholic editorial standards") "distorted" comments [2/19]

Tradition-minded monastery elevated to abbey [2/19]

USCCB under fire again: Another CCHD consultant tied to pro-abortion group, homosexual activism [2/19]

Vatican spokesman claims Pope has not received letter from members of Pontifical Academy for Life and expressed "misgivings that such a document would be in circulation at all" [2/19]

Some good news: Catholic college in California helps parents, students avoid doing business with banks that contribute to PP [2/19]

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Thursday, February 18, 2010

Update on Apostolic Visitation of U.S. Female Religious

A liberal Catholic newspaper has published an interview with Mother Mary Clare Millea who is overseeing the Apostolic Visitation of U.S. female religious. Some highlights appear below...

* "Phase three" (on-site visits) will begin one week after Easter and will continue through the fall of 2010. Most of those chosen for visits ("probably, roughly a hundred") should receive a letter at least a couple months before the visitation. Mother Millea indicated that both 'progressive' and traditional communities will be visited.

* "Phase four", the last phase, is the preparation of detailed reports on all "units" ("meaning congregations as well as their individual provinces") of female religious in the U.S. as well as a final report at the end. It appears that this phase will be completed sometime after June 2011. The reports will be sent to the Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life.

* Asked about non-compliance with the questionnaire, Mother Millea indicated that they now have "a response from virtually every congregation in the country", but also said that "Were all of those one hundred percent compliant in answering every question? No. But we have excellent data on most congregations."

* Mother Millea responded to the possibility that some of the sisters would "go non-canonical" (apparently workshops have been offered for those who are considering cutting ties with the Church) saying, "...for a group of persons who are involved in a certain institution to say it's no longer officially aligned with the Catholic church, that's certainly a possibility." She also said, "We'll have to wait and see what choices people make, but I know it's being talked about and models are being proposed"

* Asked if there was a "good news story to tell" at the end of the day, she indicated that there was, but not without "enormous problems". She also said, "We would certainly be idealistic to think that we're going to return to the numbers that we had, but religious life as such, from what I see, is going to continue."

News of the visitation was generally welcomed by traditional communities but not by 'progressive' communities. It is well known that many "modern" sisters have been rebellious & unorthodox for years, calling into question - or openly protesting - various teachings of the Church, as well as practicing & promoting witchcraft and harmful New Age practices.

Related: Cardinal Rodé speaks to Vatican Radio about reasons for Apostolic Visitation (11/09) | More from those docile religious sisters (8/09) | Catholic Humor? (8/09) | LCWR annual meeting is true to form (8/09) | Rebellious women religious (7/09)

[2/18]

Catholic News Headlines / Links [2-18-10]

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Irish abuse victims disappointed, angered over statement issued by Vatican after papal meeting with bishops [2/18]

Vatican "dismayed" over "widespread negative Irish media reaction" [2/18]

Pope Benedict reminds that "following Jesus in the 'Lenten desert' is...a necessary condition to participating in his Easter" [2/18]

Terri Schiavo's brother says new study questioning PVS diagnosis is "bittersweet"; Says "It is incumbent upon all of us to ensure that the lives of vulnerable people are not needlessly ended by flawed diagnostic practices, careless legislation or the idea that a person with a disability must prove themselves worthy of life’s most ordinary needs: food and water" [2/18]

Vatican retreat to begin on February 21 [2/18]

Catholic League responds to news analyst who ridiculed Biden for wearing ashes on air [Reminder: A pro-abortion 'Catholic' politician should be denied Holy Communion, not ashes] [2/18]

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Wednesday, February 17, 2010

Catholic scholars want brakes put on sainthood cause

Reuters is reporting that "top Catholic scholars" have written a private letter to Pope Benedict requesting that he "slow down" the canonization process for Pope Pius XII. The letter is apparently signed by 18 "greatly troubled" scholars who fear for Catholic-Jewish relations if the late Pope is canonized.

[2/17]

Anglican Conversions Update

A couple updates regarding Anglican conversions...

* An Anglican 'bishop' (1) finds some Catholic prelates "unsympathetic" regarding the Pope's efforts to bring Anglicans into the Catholic Church, according to his "leaked" letters. Shamefully, the letters reveal that some Catholic prelates apparently think heretical Anglicans "are best off doing what they are presently doing." The Catholic prelates are also reportedly resisting the Pope's provisions to bring Anglicans into the Church. (Note: Click here for information on the necessity of being Catholic for salvation)

* A group of Anglicans in Australia ("Forward in Faith Australia") has voted to enter the Catholic Church under the special provisions recently issued by Pope Benedict XVI.

[(1) Reminder: Anglican 'clergy' are not true priests - their orders have been ruled invalid by the Church: "Wherefore, strictly adhering, in this matter, to the decrees of the pontiffs, our predecessors, and confirming them most fully, and, as it were, renewing them by our authority, of our own initiative and certain knowledge, we pronounce and declare that ordinations carried out according to the Anglican rite have been, and are, absolutely null and utterly void." (Pope Leo XIII, "Apostolicae Curae", 1896 A.D., emphasis added)]

[2/17]

Italian Cardinal speaks out against Catholics who support homosexual 'marriage'

In a doctrinal note reprinted in L’Osservatore Romano, the Italian Cardinal Carlo Caffarra has spoken out against Catholics who support homosexual 'marriage'. The note said that "It’s impossible to consider oneself a Catholic if that person in one way or another recognizes same-sex marriage as a right" and noted that "It’s impossible for the Catholic faith and support for putting homosexual unions on equal footing with marriage to coexist in one’s conscience - the two contradict each other." The Cardinal confirmed that it is a "gravely immoral act" for a Catholic lawmaker to introduce a measure or vote for legislation that supports homosexual 'marriage'.

[2/17]

Archdiocese stops foster-care program in D.C.

Since new homosexual 'marriage' laws will soon take effect in the nation's capital, Washington's archdiocese has been forced to end its foster-care program in that area. The archdiocese has no choice but to end the program since it would be gravely wrong for the Church to participate in a moral evil. Unfortunately, however, another provider has been found who will place the poor children in perverted homosexual homes.

Related story: 'The End of Freedom in America'

[2/17]

Catholic News Headlines / Links [2-17-10]

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Excommunicated, schismatic founder of Life Teen youth ministry has been laicized [2/17]

Five members of the Pontifical Academy for Life call for removal of the Academy's president [2/17]

Irish bishops to make public act of repentance during Lent over abuse scandal [2/17]

Pope calls for total conversion: "Conversion means to change the direction in life's journey, not by making tiny adjustments, but by an authentic and real about-face" [2/17]

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Tuesday, February 16, 2010

One million make reservations to view Shroud of Turin

According to Vatican Radio, the 1 millionth reservation to view the Shroud of Turin was made last weekend. The Shroud will be displayed at the Turin Cathedral in Italy from April 10th - May 23rd.

[2/16]

Quotable Quote From Pope Benedict XVI

The following 'quotable quote' is from Pope Benedict's address to members of the Pontifical Academy for Life...

"[H]istory has shown how dangerous and damaging a state can be when it proceeds to make laws that touch the person and society, while itself claiming to be the source and principle of ethics."

[2/16]

Vatican to make some WWII archives available online

It has been announced that the Vatican will digitize some of its WWII archives and will make the material available online, free of charge. It is said that the documents will "render service to the historic truth." Jews have been calling for release of WWII era documents to examine Pope Pius XII's actions during the Jewish holocaust.

[2/16]

Catholic News Headlines / Links [2-16-10]

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Bishop Vasa ends diocesan sponsorship of hospital which violates Catholic teachings [2/16]

Vatican communiqué regarding Papal meeting with Irish bishops [2/16]

Archbishop Listecki tells abuse victims to report abuse directly to civil authorities [2/16]

24 hour confession to be held in 51 parishes in NY from March 5-6 [2/16]

Muslims in Pakistan burn down home of Catholic family; Police threaten the victims, won't investigate [2/16]

Excerpts from Pope's message for 47th World Day of Prayer for Vocations [2/16]

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Monday, February 15, 2010

"Danger of relics"

A Vatican theologian has warned that the "display of the mortal remains of saints and the cult of relics are part of our tradition. However we nowadays run the risk of crossing the boundary from popular devotion to superstition." He warned of a temptation to "compensate for empty churches with a boom in religious happenings, substituting miracle-performing sensationalism for authentic faith"

Related: Relics (reflections) | Saints Section

[2/15]

L'Osservatore Romano: Get Serious

In yet another scandalous piece in L'Osservatore Romano, the Vatican newspaper has put together a "semiserious guide on the road to good music" - a "top ten list of 'classic' rock music" ("a musical genre which has been described by the Pope has the work of the Devil"). Offensive items on the list include the Beatles' 'Revolver' ("perhaps their most drugs-influenced, psychedelic album from 1966") and U2's 'Achtung Baby' (containing the phrase "I’d break bread and wine if there was a church I could receive in"). Seems the Vatican's semi-official newspaper is still seriously in need of something...like maybe some good ol' fashioned Catholicism.

Related: Previous News Brief: What's Next for L'Osservatore Romano - Praise for Satan himself?

[2/15]

Ridiculous: President of the French Bishop's Conference wants condemnations over Motu Proprio

The Rorate Caeli blog is reporting that Cardinal Vingt-Trois, president of the French Bishop's Conference, is seeking condemnations against the "demanders" of the Motu Proprio, Summorum Pontificum. He claims the MP has given ammunition to the "integrists" against the bishops in France. Comment: Is it not telling that the Cardinal has chosen to fight this (settled!) issue given the dire situation of the Catholic Church in France? (earlier story here)

Related: Motu Proprio Summorum Pontificum Info.

[2/15]

Catholic News Headlines / Links [2-15-10]

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Irish bishops begin two day meeting with Pope over clerical abuse [2/15]

Bolivian archbishop tells faithful to avoid excessive carnival celebrations [2/15]

Cardinal Sodano to preside over special Mass for Haitian earthquake victims at Santa Maria Maggiore [2/15]

Ecclesia Dei answers questions about Summorum Pontificum: Priest may schedule TLM on his own accord, TLM may replace regularly scheduled NO, calendar and readings can't be substituted, and (gulp!) lay readers may be allowed to read vernacular translation [2/15]

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Saturday, February 13, 2010

Catholic News Headlines / Links [2-13-10]

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Prefect of the Congregation for the Clergy says Church can't accept abusive priests & cannot tolerate abuse [2/13]

More confirmation that Obama administration is preparing for a potential Supreme Court vacancy "in the next few months" [2/13]

"The principle of graduality" [2/13]

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Friday, February 12, 2010

What's up with those headlines?

Do some of today's mainstream Catholic news agencies downplay bad news? If nothing else, some of their headlines appear far too upbeat.

Two recent examples:

(1) A Catholic News Agency article bears the headline: "Millennial Catholics’ interest in religious education a good sign, survey suggests"

However, a more evaluative reading of the article reveals that... [Note: Commentary below added by us]

* About 15% - more than 1 in 10! - of "self-described Catholic Millennials" apparently do not even believe in God ["But without faith it is impossible to please him, for anyone who approaches God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him." (Heb.11:6)]

* About 75% of surveyed Catholics fail to attend Mass "at least once a month" ["It is a mortal sin not to hear Mass on a Sunday or a holyday of obligation unless we are excused for a serious reason." (Baltimore Catechism); Third Commandment: "Remember to keep holy the Lord's Day"] Therefore, objectively speaking, 3/4 or more of these Catholics are - apparently - regularly in a state of mortal sin. ["Faith teaches that the pains of Hell are eternal, and it also warns us that one single (unrepented) mortal sin suffices to condemn a soul forever because of the infinite malice by which it offends an infinite God." (St. Anthony Mary Claret)]

* More than 50% of these (seriously deluded!) 'Catholic Millennials' approve of people practicing more than one religion - which necessarily means they think it is acceptable for people to practice at least one false religion, since the Catholic religion alone is true. ["[H]e scatters and gathers not who gathers not with the Church and with Jesus Christ, and all who fight not jointly with him and with the Church are in very truth contending against God." (Pope Leo XII, "Sapientiae Christianae", 1890 A.D.)] Note: For more on religious indifferentism, click here

* More than 80% of the misguided young 'Catholics' surveyed think morals are "relative" ["Whoever says, 'I know him,' but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him." (1 Jn. 2:4); "We belong to God, and anyone who knows God listens to us, while anyone who does not belong to God refuses to hear us. This is how we know the spirit of truth and the spirit of deceit." (1 Jn. 4:6)]

* About 50% of 'Millennial Catholics' believe "people should have different business and personal ethical standards" ["Further, it is unlawful to follow one line of conduct in private life and another in public, respecting privately the authority of the Church, but publicly rejecting it; for this would amount to joining together good and evil, and to putting man in conflict with himself; whereas he ought always to be consistent, and never in the least point nor in any condition of life to swerve from Christian virtue." (Pope Leo XIII, "Immortale Dei", 1885)]

* A mere 18% of Catholics surveyed considered being "spiritual" or being "close to God" a long-term life goal - an even lower percentage than non-Catholics! [Remember that the very purpose of life on earth is to "to know Him, to love Him, and to serve Him in this world, and to be happy with Him forever in the next." (Baltimore Catechism)]

* Around 40% of 'Catholic Millennials' fail to oppose the murder of the unborn in the womb, even though abortion is a grave sin ["Those who give drugs causing abortions are murderers themselves, as well as those who receive the poison which kills the fetus." (St. Basil the Great, Doctor of the Church, c. 369 A.D.)]

* Close to 40% of Catholics surveyed find (gravely immoral!) embryonic stem cell research to be "morally acceptable"

* 'Catholic Millennials' were "less likely than their peers to say drug use is morally wrong"

* About 25% of the young Catholics surveyed said divorce was "morally acceptable" ["Everyone who divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery, and the one who marries a woman divorced from her husband commits adultery." (Our Lord Jesus Christ, Lk. 16:18)]

* Almost 40% of 'Catholic Millennials' surveyed find fornication acceptable ["Do you not know that the unjust will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived; neither fornicators nor idolaters nor adulterers nor boy prostitutes nor practicing homosexuals nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor robbers will inherit the kingdom of God." (1 Cor. 6:9-10, emphasis added)]

* More than 35% of surveyed young 'Catholics' find homosexual relations - a serious sin that "cries out to heaven for vengeance" - morally acceptable and around 25% support homosexual 'marriage' ["Do you not know that the unjust will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived; neither fornicators nor idolaters nor adulterers nor boy prostitutes nor practicing homosexuals nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor robbers will inherit the kingdom of God." (1 Cor. 6:9-10, emphasis added); "Likewise, Sodom, Gomorrah, and the surrounding towns, which, in the same manner as they, indulged in sexual promiscuity and practiced unnatural vice, serve as an example by undergoing a punishment of eternal fire." (Jude 1:7]

The minute "crumbs" of good news in the survey - really just items that Catholics should be able to take for granted - seriously pale in comparison with the apparently terrible spiritual state of young Catholics. The real, actual crisis of faith and morals existing among young Catholics today (the subject of much of the article) and the resulting consequences are surely the most newsworthy elements in the piece - not a mere "interest" in religious education. So why settle on that as the story's headline?

(2) A recent Catholic News Service article headline proclaims: "Study: Catholics at Catholic colleges less likely to stray from church"

The article, however, reports that... [Note: Commentary below added by us]

* "[M]any Catholic students at Catholic and public colleges disagree with church teaching" ["He requires the assent of the mind to all truths without exception. It was thus the duty of all who heard Jesus Christ, if they wished for eternal salvation, not merely to accept His doctrine as a whole, but to assent with their entire mind to all and every point of it, since it is unlawful to withhold faith from God even in regard to one single point." (Pope Leo XIII, "Satis Cognitum", 1896 A.D.); "If any one does not profess, in accordance with the holy Fathers, properly and truthfully all that has been handed down and taught publicly to the holy, Catholic, and apostolic Church of God, both by the same holy Fathers and the five approved universal councils, to the last detail in word and intention: let him be condemned." (Lateran Council, 649 A.D.)]

* Over 40% of 'Catholic' students at Catholic colleges apparently believe abortion - the murder of the unborn in the womb - should be legal. The article also notes that a "majority of Catholic students leave college disagreeing that abortion should be legal but they number fewer than those who entered with that opinion" - So much for a Catholic education! ["Abortion and euthanasia are thus crimes which no human law can claim to legitimize." (Pope John Paul II)]

* About 2/3 of Catholics attending Catholic colleges support homosexual 'marriage' ["You shall not lie with a male as with a woman; such a thing is an abomination." (Lev. 18:22)]

* Close to 15% of those attending Catholic colleges apparently indicated that their "religiousness" became weaker in college

* Mass attendance among almost 1/3 of Catholics at Catholic colleges declined during college years

As if the headline wasn't rose-colored enough, the article quotes the president of the ACCU as follows: "Disturbing as these figures are, they should not be a surprise and should not be interpreted as a specific outcome of students' attendance at a Catholic college or university"

Translation: The emperor has clothes. Really he does.

[Note: To the article's credit, however, it does quote the president of the Cardinal Newman Society as follows: "[If ACCU officials think] it is a happy fact that Catholics lose their faith somewhat slower at Catholic colleges than elsewhere, then they fail to appreciate the concerns of faithful Catholic families."]

Isn't it about time these Catholic news agencies stopped donning rose colored glasses when affixing headlines to such stories? These misleading headlines don't help anyone, but only serve to mask the truth. To correct these very real, serious problems among Catholics today requires that they be confronted openly, followed by proper education. News agencies should also call on those in authority to consider what has brought about this crisis and what can be done to fix it, not simply pretend the crisis doesn't exist.

Remember: These statistics relate to real people who have real souls to save. Grave errors in such important matters will have serious consequences for their adherents - both on earth and possibly for all eternally. "Since it is in the very nature of man to follow the guide of reason to his actions, if his intellect sins at all, his will soon follows; and thus it happens that false opinions, whose seat is in the understanding, influence human actions and pervert them." (Pope Leo XIII)

Ignorance in matters of religion is not a light matter - it can lead to the eternal loss of souls. As Pope Benedict XIV stated: "We declare that a great number of those who are condemned to eternal punishment suffer that everlasting calamity because of ignorance of those mysteries of faith which must be known and believed in order to be numbered among the elect."

The situation among Catholic youths today - a true crisis - does not warrant overly upbeat headlines, but rather calls for (1) better religious instruction, and (2) increased fear of the Lord. It does not well-serve Catholics to put a positive spin on this disaster.

"[F]or it is one of the most painful and grievous sights to see so many souls, redeemed by the blood of Christ, snatched from salvation by the whirlwind of an age of error, precipitated into the abyss of eternal death." (Pope Leo XIII, "Supremi Apostolatus Officio", 1883)

"Already the fields cultivated by our Lord are everywhere turning into a wilderness abounding in ignorance of the Faith, in error and vice, as though blown upon by some hideous pest. And to add to the anguish of this thought, so far from putting a check on such insolent and destructive depravity, or imposing the punishment deserved, they who can and should correct matters seem in many cases, by their indifference or open connivance, to increase the spirit of evil." (Pope Leo XIII, "Magnae Dei Matris", 1892)

"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; prudent are all who live by it." (Ps. 111:10)

"What can there be that is worse than hell? Yet nothing is more profitable than the fear of it! For the fear of hell gains for us the crown of the kingdom" (St. John Chrysostom, Doctor of the Church)

[2/12]

Catholic News Headlines / Links [2-12-10]

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Vatican reportedly "perplexed and unhappy" over postulator's 'tell-all' book on Pope John Paul II that argues for the late pope's canonization; Vatican apparently "snubs" the book; Longtime aide says "It is a surprising and serious thing that it was the postulator who wrote such a book" [2/12]

'Global warming' hits Rome? News headline: "Rare snowfall in Rome as cold snap grips Italy" [2/12]

Catholic writer contemplates 'tea party' movement against USCCB; Says "For American Catholics, the equivalent of centralized federal power is the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB). The USCCB, the kind of episcopal conference authorized by Vatican II, has no canonical authority of its own. But its voice is considered authoritative by the media, and it is treated as such by those who applaud its lobbying efforts in Congress and the White House." [2/12]

Canadian priest speaks of Catholic young people "dying of spiritual thirst" and "lethargic Catholics" loosing their resolve to rebuild the Church in Canada which "lies in ruins"; Says God's house must be a priority in our lives and that "now is the time to rebuild the Church" [2/12]

February 11th was 84th anniversary of signing of Lateran Treaty [2/12]

In response to atheist objections, Catholic group launches campaign to support Mother Teresa postage stamp [2/12]

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Thursday, February 11, 2010

Selection of Cardinal Mahony's Successor is Underway: Pray Hard

To the delight of many, the process of selecting a new Archbishop of Los Angeles has begun. The archdiocese - which has been under the control of the controversial "progressive" (notoriously liberal) Cardinal Mahony for nearly 25 years - has issued a memo containing a prayer asking for divine assistance in the selection of the Cardinal's successor. The prayer reads as follows:

"Lord, God, you are our eternal shepherd and guide. In your mercy, grant to the Archdiocese of Los Angeles a shepherd who will walk in your ways and whose watchful care will bring us your blessing. In your love for us, give us the joy of receiving a shepherd who will be an example of goodness to your people and who will fill our hearts and minds with the truth of the gospel. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen."

The Archdiocese of Los Angeles - the nation's largest diocese - desperately needs a good, holy, orthodox leader. Please pray hard!

[2/11]

Catholic News Headlines / Links [2-11-10]

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Have courage, say "is": Bishop of Baker says "on the face of it" USCCB's association with pro-abortion group "would appear to be" problematic [2/11]

Pope Benedict asks Blessed Virgin's help for sick people, newlyweds [2/11]

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Wednesday, February 10, 2010

More than a quarter of health care facilities worldwide are managed by the Catholic Church

According to a CNA report, the Catholic Church "manages 26 percent of health care facilities in the world", including "117,000 health care facilities, including hospitals, clinics, [and] orphanages." The statistics were obtained from a press release from the Pontifical Council for Pastoral Assistance to Health Care Workers on the occasion of the council's 25th anniversary.

[2/10]

Catholic News Headlines / Links [2-10-10]

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Pope Benedict publishes program for his April pilgrimage to Malta [2/10]

Pelosi aide says legislators have strategy to pass pro-abortion healthcare bill; Aide says "There's a certain skill, there's a trick, but I think we'll get it done" [2/10]

Judge in California's Prop 8 case whose "entire course of conduct in the anti-Prop 8 case has reflected a manifest design to turn the lawsuit into a high-profile, culture-transforming, history-making, Scopes-style show trial" is believed to be homosexual; Legal analyst says the judge should recuse himself and says that his "entire course of conduct has only one sensible explanation: that [Judge] Walker is hell-bent to use the case to advance" homosexual 'marriage' [2/10]

Haiti death toll up to 230,000; Relief agencies say efforts to provide basic care are "falling short" [2/10]

Be careful where you donate: UN relief organizers enlist aid of Haiti's 'voodoo priests' for rebuilding efforts [2/10]

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Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Fr. Jenkins Wants the ND 88 Jailed?

LifeSiteNews.com has reported on "a bizarre personal encounter" between an attorney and Fr. Jenkins regarding the ND 88. The site recounts a conversation between the two:

"When I said to you, Fr. Jenkins, that these defendants believe that, like [the civil rights leader] Dr. King, they did nothing wrong but were marching for civil rights and social justice for all Americans, born and unborn, you responded, 'But Dr. King served time in jail.'"

Could this mean the self-avowed "pro-life" Fr. Jenkins actually wants jail time for the peaceful pro-life protesters?

Related: Threats to Life: Abortion

[2/9]

Catholic News Headlines / Links [2-9-10]

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Vatican Secretariat of State issues communiqué disputing involvement in controversy which led to Italian editor's resignation; Communiqué states that "It seems clear from the proliferation of the most incredible assertions and hypotheses - repeated by the media with truly remarkable consonance - that everything rests on unfounded convictions, with the intention of gratuitously and calumniously attributing to the editor of 'Osservatore Romano' an unmotivated, unreasonable and malicious action. This is giving rise to a defamatory campaign against the Holy See, which even involves the Roman Pontiff"; Communiqué also states that the Pope "deplores these unjust and injurious attacks, renews his complete faith in his collaborators, and prays that those who truly have the good of the Church to heart may work with all means to ensure that truth and justice triumph" [2/9]

President of Spanish Bishops' Conference blesses what is believed to be the "highest Catholic chapel in the world" [2/9]

Irish abuse victims issue letter asking Pope for about $1.37 billion in compensation; Letter to be delivered by members of the Irish hierarchy also asks Pope Benedict to meet with victims in September [2/9]

Vatican economist attributes global economic crisis to low birth rates; Says "the only way to rebuild economic-financial balance is austerity" [2/9]

Pope Benedict reflects on necessity of stable families for the proper development of children; Holy Father says that "The family founded on marriage between a man and a woman is the greatest help that can be given to children" and noted that "a troubled family environment...[is] not without consequences for children" [2/9]

-30-

Monday, February 8, 2010

News Highlights

The following are some recent news highlights...

* Pope Benedict has announced that a guidebook is being developed to assist couples in preparing for marriage.

* USCCB at it again: The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops is reportedly sponsoring an event which includes speakers who have been called "prominent anti-Catholic bigots". Speakers include a homosexual activist (related story here) and a priest "forced to resign by the Vatican" over his publishing of articles which question Church teachings.

* Ecumeniacs at it again: Cardinal Kasper has "floated the idea" of an "ecumenical catechism" that would be "written in consultation" with non-Catholics. Anyone doubt the work would conveniently exclude the terms "papal infallibility", "heretic", "schism", and "no salvation outside the Church"? Save us, O Lord!

* An immensely popular daytime television program which has "greatly harmed morality in the U.S." through its airing of scandalous, raunchy, and otherwise offensive content will apparently feature Dominican sisters on an upcoming show. The Oprah Winfrey Show is scheduled to feature the habit-weaning sisters on 2/9/10. The sisters hope the program will "further understanding of religious life."

* A "self-proclaimed anti-Catholic bigot" who is a member of the President's Advisory Council on Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships has come under fire for his insulting & inaccurate comments about Pope Benedict XVI. Harry Knox has charged the Holy Father with "hurting people in the name of Jesus" over the Pope's opposition to (gravely immoral) c*ntraceptives. News accounts indicate that a coalition of Catholic leaders has sent an open letter to President Obama demanding that Knox be fired.

* Msgr. Michel Schooyans, professor emeritus of the Catholic University of Louvain, has published an essay which discusses "true and bogus compassion in acts and standpoints observable in the world today." He charged the Vatican newspaper, L'Osservatore Romano, and the President of the Pontifical Academy for Life (a organization that is said to be expressing "fear for its future") with "pseudo-compassion" over their response to the recent scandal involving a nine-year old Brazilian girl who had an abortion. He noted that, "Pseudo-compassion, frequently invoked in favor of the perpetrators of acts which are inherently wrong, such as abortion, hence leads to scandal; it invites others into grave sin". He also warned that "'pseudo-compassion' leads to heresy and division."

* An Anglican "Archbishop"* has created a stir by his remarks concerning the Pope's provisions designed to make it easier for Anglicans to enter the Catholic Church. The Anglican "prelate"* said: "If people genuinely realize that they want to be Roman Catholic, they should convert properly, and go through catechesis and be made proper Catholics" and noted that "...if I was really, genuinely wanting to convert, I wouldn’t go into an ordinariate. I would actually go into catechesis and become a truly converted Roman Catholic and be accepted." [* Reminder: Anglican 'clergy' are not true priests - their orders have been ruled invalid by the Church: "Wherefore, strictly adhering, in this matter, to the decrees of the pontiffs, our predecessors, and confirming them most fully, and, as it were, renewing them by our authority, of our own initiative and certain knowledge, we pronounce and declare that ordinations carried out according to the Anglican rite have been, and are, absolutely null and utterly void." (Pope Leo XIII, "Apostolicae Curae", 1896 A.D., emphasis added)]

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Catholic News Headlines / Links [2-8-10]

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Note: The following are from the MyCatholicSource.com News & Opinion Page at
http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/cmno/news_and_opinion.htm (or archived at http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/cmno/news_and_opinion_archive.htm ). Not all links may be included. Dates in brackets may refer to dates the links were added to the MCS news page. Items herein contain text only. To view news briefs, actual news links (or to view full news stories), click above link for MCS News & Opinion Page (or archive).

*** ADVISORY: NEWS ITEMS MAY CONTAIN UNDESIRABLE TERMS & COVER SENSITIVE SUBJECTS ***
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Canadian court finds man who beat an elderly nun to death 'not guilty' by reason of insanity [2/8]

"Preservation through relocation": Parish in Georgia hoping to move historic NY church building; Church to be moved is modeled after the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls [2/8]

German abuse scandal widens: Nearly 100 priests and lay workers now suspected of abuse; Secretary of German bishops' conference says the revelations "horrify" him [2/8]

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