My Catholic Source.com Blog: June 2009

Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Did you notice the recent addition of the RSS feed icon (orange image with radio waves) on our News & Opinion page? If you already make use of RSS ("Really Simple Syndication") feeds, you know what they can do. If you don't, we would like to point out that they can be used to have information delivered directly to your computer (e.g. via your custom home page - such as iGoogle, My Yahoo, My AOL, etc.). They are quite easy to use so even the most non-technical person may be able to benefit from them. Simply click the orange RSS image and follow the instructions. If you'd like to add our feed directly to your Google, Yahoo, MSN, or AOL page, open our Blog & RSS Feed information page (click here) and then click on the applicable button on that page (scroll down to the Google, Yahoo, MSN, AOL buttons). Once complete, custom Catholic content from this site should appear on your selected page (e.g. Google, MyYahoo, MSN, AOL) - and it should be updated automatically over time without your having to do anything. Plus, by utilizing our FREE feed ("subscribing"), you assist this site at no cost to yourself. Please do keep in mind that although our RSS feed may be helpful, it is not a replacement for visiting our news page (the feed may not contain the most current information and it is in summary form).

Another recent enhancement to the News & Opinion page appears near the bottom of the page towards the end of the column labeled "In the News..." There you may find a link to our new 2009 Archived News Brief Index (or click here). This new page allows you to quickly locate archived news briefs. The index contains a title, a topic or summary, and keywords for each news brief. Some "hot topics" have been highlighted (e.g. 'global warming/climate change', illegal immigration). To read applicable news briefs, simply click the title link.

We hope you will find the improvements beneficial. If you have any comments or questions, please let us know.

[6/30]

Monday, June 29, 2009

Pray for Pope Benedict: 82-year-old Supreme Pontiff lost balance on Sunday

At the end of some recent news accounts concerning the scientific analysis of St. Paul's bones, there appeared the following: "At the end of Sunday’s service in the warm basilica, the 82-year-old Benedict lost his balance slightly as he slipped on a step on the altar, and was steadied by one of his assistants who was by his side." Pray for Pope Benedict XVI.

Note: Some prayers for the Pope may be found here.

[6/29]

Catholic News Headlines / Links [6-29-09]

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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_2009.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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Scientific tests provide validation for "never contested belief" that St. Paul's bones rest beneath altar in Roman basilica; Pope announces test results while presiding at ceremonies closing the Pauline Year [6/29]

Oldest known image of St. Paul discovered, restored; Fourth century image in "very good condition" [6/29]

Under pressure, Caritas withdraws from state health plan that would have required abortion referrals [6/29]

Public release of papal encyclical, dated 6/29, thought to still be a week away; Italian newspaper publishes some paragraphs reportedly taken from new encyclical [6/29]

Sotomayor's record of reversals worsens: Supreme Court overturns earlier ruling - white firefighters were unfairly denied promotions due to race [6/29]

Under pressure from the British government, Protestant paramilitary organizations in Northern Ireland announce decommissioning of weapons; Previous conflicts in Catholic neighborhoods killed thousands [6/29]

Parishioners pledge $600K to keep historic Cleveland church open [6/29]

Despite warnings, SSPX proceeds with ordinations; SSPX leader calls bishops' remarks "verbal bullying" [6/29]

Health Secretary Sebelius "doesn't think" government health care will include rationing: Pro-lifers concerned that government health plan may lead to euthanasia & assisted-suicide, Critics say government health plan will raise taxes and will be a "massive takeover" of 16% of the economy [6/29]

Pelosi won't commit to giving the public a week to review final text of health-care bill before it is voted on, fails to respond to question regarding having CBO report on cost of final bill; Final bill "likely" to be over 1,000 pages long and "will include mandates and regulations that could permanently transform the U.S. health care system" [6/29]

Current draft of health care bill said to mandate nationwide taxpayer-funded abortion [6/29]

Nearly all House members surveyed hadn't read the entire 1,200 page climate bill before they voted on it [6/29]

Pro-abortion advocate attacks pro-life group's national headquarters; Vandal attempts to disable security system, punch group's president; Organization has received death threats since shooting of notorious abortionist; Group's president says local police "seemed apathetic" [6/29]

Parishioners in Chicago donate 15 pounds of gold for crowns for statues of Jesus and Mary [6/29]

Woman charged in connection with theft during Mass; Suspect alleged to have stolen from parishioners' purses while they knelt in the pew or went to receive Holy Communion [6/29]

S*domite agenda moves forward: Lawmakers in CA pushing bill for official day to honor deceased homosexual activist Harvey Milk; Bill would encourage public schools in CA to "conduct suitable commemorative exercises" annually on May 22 which would recognize "his accomplishments" and familiarize students "with the contributions he made" [6/29]

Pro-life legal group files papers to challenge court order requiring FDA to allow 'Plan B' drug to be sold to minors [6/29]

Prefect for the Congregation for the Clergy says "there is no room in the priestly ministry" for pedophiles; Says those guilty "must be punished both through civil and canon law” [6/29]

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Saturday, June 27, 2009

Catholic News Headlines / Links [6-27-09]

Friday, June 26, 2009

Will you die today?

The recent passing of several celebrities underscores the fact that death can come for each of us at any moment, fame or fortune notwithstanding. Although (unfortunately) it is unfashionable to talk about our own inevitable deaths in today's age, it has long been the advice of saints that we should think often of death. This way we can prepare for it and, by the mercy of God, have what is known by faithful Catholics as a "happy death".

Since your death can come at any time, even without warning - possibly today - do yourself a favor by making some important preparations for your own happy death. On this note, we will include some resources herein that we hope may be of some assistance, along with some other important points to consider regarding death.

In any event, please don't put off your preparation for a happy death because you never know when your time may come. Remember that the state of your soul at death will affect your entire eternity - and that a single unrepented mortal sin at death is enough to condemn a soul: "It is of faith that Heaven exists for the good and Hell for the wicked. Faith teaches that the pains of Hell are eternal, and it also warns us that one single mortal sin suffices to condemn a soul forever because of the infinite malice by which it offends an infinite God." (St. Anthony Mary Claret)

Even if you are very busy, make the time now for this critical preparation. Don't put it off. Really, don't. Your eternal happiness may be at stake.

Some Resources (click link to view)

* Prayers For Final Perseverance / Happy Death

* Information on Suffering & Death (Topics include: Suffering Has Meaning, How to Suffer, When a Loved One is Suffering or Dying, and When a Loved One Has Died)

* Reflections on Death (a wealth of quotations from popes, saints, scripture, etc.)

* Information on the Sacrament of Extreme Unction / Anointing of the Sick

* Reflections on Judgement

* Topical Scripture: Death

Other items to consider (and discuss with your loved ones, as applicable):

* A priest should be called early - don't wait until there is "extreme" danger of death - "We should not wait until we are in extreme danger before we receive Extreme Unction, but if possible we should receive it while we have the use of our senses." (Baltimore Catechism) [more information]

* Ensure that the priest brings Viaticum to the dying [more information]

* A plenary indulgence may be available at the approach of death [more information]

* St. Joseph is patron saint of a happy death & a number of saints are invoked against sudden death [patron saints index]

* Develop a strong Marian devotion and ask the Blessed Virgin to be your advocate in death.

* Take some time to consider the controversy surrounding organ donation. It is well known that standards in the medical community may result in organs being removed before a person is actually dead - and that such organ harvesting necessarily causes the person's death and is therefore a violation of the 5th commandment. [Note: We have a short flier on organ donation (click here), but there are also invaluable references online which expose problems associated with organ donation and include astonishing admissions by the medical community (try using a major search engine for more information)]. Be sure to advise your loved ones of these facts.

* Instruct your loved ones in advance to call a priest even after your "apparent death", if necessary (e.g. if you have no heartbeat, no brainwaves, no breathing, etc.), since one cannot be certain that the soul has left the body until the body reaches a certain, irreversible state (i.e. putrefaction). [Note: If a priest does not wish to come after apparent death, he may be reminded of his obligation. Note that he may give the sacrament of Extreme Unction conditionally if he thinks someone is dead.] [more information]

* As applicable, instruct your loved ones that you want a traditional Requiem, as is your right, rather than be 'canonized' at a modern service [try here for info]

* Be sure your family knows to pray for you, have Masses said for you, etc. after your death. Especially value Mass at a privileged altar, Gregorian Masses (Trental), enrollments for perpetual Masses, and annual Masses on the anniversary of your death.

Also, to inspire the fear of God - the beginning of all Wisdom (Ps. 111:10, Prov. 9:10, etc.) - it is good to remember that few are saved...

"Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the road broad that leads to destruction, and those who enter through it are many. How narrow the gate and constricted the road that leads to life. And those who find it are few." (Our Lord Jesus Christ, Mt. 7:13-14)

"Many are invited, but few are chosen." (Our Lord Jesus Christ, Mt. 22:14)

"Someone asked [Jesus], 'Lord, will only a few people be saved?' He answered them, 'Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I tell you, will attempt to enter but will not be strong enough.'" (Lk. 13:23-24)

"For it is time for the judgment to begin with the household of God; if it begins with us, how will it end for those who fail to obey the gospel of God? 'And if the righteous one is barely saved, where will the godless and the sinner appear?'" (St. Peter, 1 Pt. 4:17-18)

"[M]any will be damned; few will be saved." (St. Benedict Joseph Labre)

"Taking into account the behavior of mankind, only a small part of the human race will be saved." (Sr. Lucy of Fatima)

"The number of the Elect is so small - so small - that were we to know how small it is, we should faint away with grief" (St. Louis Marie de Montfort)

"Attend to the words, for they have an especial force, many walk in the broad way few find the narrow way. For the broad way needs no search, and is not found, but presents itself readily; it is the way of all who go astray. Whereas the narrow way neither do all find, nor when they have found, do they straightway walk therein. Many, after they have found the way of truth, caught by the pleasures of the world, desert midway." (St. Jerome, Doctor of the Church)

Finally, don't forget the wonderful news that God is rich in mercy. To receive His mercy, repent sincerely. Do it now. "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." (Mt. 4:17) If you have an unconfessed mortal sin, get to confession asap. Do not delay. Remember...

"There is hope of mercy in time and in eternity; but there is confession in time only, and not in eternity. There is no confession of sins in any time except in this present life. By his own will each man is permitted and has throughout life the freedom to choose confession. But when we die we loose life and along with it the right to exercise our will. For then a law already set down unto rest or unto punishment sustains, in accord with its past exercise" (St. Hilary of Poitiers, Doctor of the Church)

Closing quotations...

"Since we are travelers and pilgrims in the world, let us ever ponder on the end of the road, that is of our life, for the end of our roadway is our home." (St. Columban)

"Life is short; death is certain; and the world to come is everlasting." (Cardinal Newman)

"Of all the things of life, a happy death is our principal concern. For if we attain that, it matters little if we lose all the rest. But if we do not attain that, nothing else is of any value." (Bl. Juniperro Serra)

"So too, you also must be prepared, for at an hour you do not expect, the Son of Man will come." (Our Lord Jesus Christ, Mt. 24:44)

Additional Resources:

* Prayers for Deceased Persons

* Purgatory Information (Purgatory Release Project)

* Catholic Basics Section

* More Quotations (Reflections)

* More Scripture

* Dies Irae (Sequence)

* Share thoughts / tips regarding death: Catholic Life Section | Catholic Seniors Section

* More Resources - See A-Z index for 10,000+ topics

[6/26]

Catholic News Headlines / Links [6-26-09]

Thursday, June 25, 2009

Holy Communion Under One Species

Once again, concern over the recent flu outbreak has prompted parishes to curtail offering Holy Communion to the laity under the species of wine. (Note: This refers to Communion practices at Novus Ordo Masses only - not to 'Tridentine' Latin Masses, which already bar this practice by default). Therefore, it seems a fitting time to remind visitors of some facts concerning Holy Communion...

* It is not necessary to receive Holy Communion under both species. As the Council of Trent states: "If any one saith that the precept of God or by necessity of salvation all and each of the faithful of Christ ought to receive both species of the most holy sacrament of the Eucharist: let him be anathema."

* Introduction of Communion under both species for lay persons in the 20th century began as a result of disobedience to the Pope. It has contributed to irreverence, desecration, and sacrilege. It has caused some Catholics to erroneously (and heretically) believe that it is necessary to Communicate under both species or that they receive Christ "more fully" if they receive Holy Communion under both species. It has also led to the widespread proliferation of 'Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist' (lay persons dispensing Holy Communion), a practice always condemned by the Church.

* Holy Communion under both species may be allowed only under certain conditions. And, even this limited toleration was extracted from the Holy See due to widespread disobedience on the part of certain of the faithful (e.g. liberals / modernists, feminists). Therefore, in many cases, it is an abuse.

* There are "numerous and weighty reasons" that the Church has adopted the practice of Communion under one species (click here for more information).

* There are serious concerns over widespread distribution of Holy Communion under the species of wine [e.g. danger of spillage & profanation, confusion of teaching regarding the Real Presence in one species (e.g. thinking Christ is not received fully and entirely under one species alone), sanitary issues, danger of infection / spread of disease, inability to tolerate species of wine, interference of species of wine with medication, etc.].

* Communion under both species may be seen as conforming to "Protestant sensibilities" - "Communion under both kinds is accepted as the Protestant symbol of true Bible Christianity in contrast to Romish corruptions." (Davies) [Note: While Protestants may receive bread & wine, theirs is simply that - bread and wine. They have no power of orders and cannot confect a valid Eucharist.]

* Communion under both species was not commanded by the Second Vatican Council.

* The faithful are never required to Communicate under both species - "The holy council, guided by the Holy Spirit, who is the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of godliness (see Isa. 11:2), and following the custom and the judgment of the Church itself, teaches and declares that the laity and clerics who are not celebrating are not bound by any divine command to receive the sacrament of the Eucharist under both species. And faith leaves no possibility of doubting that Communion under one species is sufficient for salvation." (Council of Trent)

* Christ is contained fully and entirely under one species and is not received "more fully" under both species than under one species.

Note: For more information on this topic, please click here. For a free flier on this topic that you may print & distribute, please click here.

[6/25]

Catholic News Headlines / Links [6-25-09]

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

A little less sensitivity, please!

Recent statements made by bishops have highlighted an increasingly serious problem in the Church - namely, overly "pastoral" actions of prelates. With this modern "sensitive" approach, it appears that the "most deadly sin" Church leaders fear committing is offending someone (not everyone mind you - it is well known that tradition-minded Catholics may be offended with impunity). Today's Church leaders don't want to offend Jews or Protestants or Muslims or adulterers or any other type of sinner, regardless of the precarious state of their soul.

Thankfully, such timidity was unknown to the Early Church Fathers whose writings bubble over with statements that would be condemned as "not pastoral" (possibly even "unChristian"!) by today's prelates. Never mind that many of these Church Fathers are canonized saints, and some were popes. They lived in an age of great faith - even if they were the persecuted minority - and feared not to speak openly concerning truths even if their actions might cost them their own lives under the most horrible torture imaginable.

We see clearly that Holy Scripture - even the New Testament - is also not brimming over with "pastoral sensitivity". For example, consider these passages...

"You brood of vipers!" (Jesus Christ, Mt. 3:7, Mt. 12:34, Lk. 3:7)

"You serpents, you brood of vipers, how can you flee from the judgment of Gehenna?" (Jesus Christ, Mt. 23:33)

"[Jesus] turned and said to Peter, 'Get behind me, Satan! You are an obstacle to me. You are thinking not as God does, but as human beings do.'" (Mt. 16:23)

"You belong to your father the devil and you willingly carry out your father's desires." (Jesus Christ, Jn. 8:44 )

"O stupid Galatians!" (St. Paul, Gal. 3:1)

"...you are filled with bitter gall and are in the bonds of iniquity." (St. Peter, Acts 8:23)

"But Saul, also known as Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, looked intently at him and said, 'You son of the devil, you enemy of all that is right, full of every sort of deceit and fraud." (Acts 13:9-10)

"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)

"Whoever sins belongs to the devil" (St. John, 1 Jn. 3:8)

"Would that those who are upsetting you might also castrate themselves!" (St. Paul, Gal. 5:12)

"If you are without discipline, in which all have shared, you are not sons but bastards." (St. Paul, Heb. 12:8)

So why do today's successors to the Apostles - who are filled with the Holy Spirit - feel they must "sugar coat" truths and almost apologize if that have to say anything even remotely "harsh"? Why do they feel they must bend over backwards to accommodate sinners rather than convert them? Should they not take a lesson from Holy Scripture, from the Church Fathers, and from the popes, bishops & saints of the past? It’s souls - not feelings - that really count.

We must consider honestly that harsh correction is often medicine. What would one think of a doctor who refused to prescribe lifesaving medicine because it tasted bitter? Would he not be derelict in his duty and a causer of death? As St. John Chrysostom, Doctor of the Church, says concerning weak fathers:

"And so it is just as if the father of a poor cold-blooded child (already, more delicate than it ought to be), should, although it is so feeble, give it cake and cold (drink) and whatever only pleases the child, and take no account of what might do it good; and then, being reproved by the physicians, should excuse himself by saying, 'What can I do? I cannot bear to see the child crying.' Thou poor, wretched creature, thou betrayer! for I cannot, call such a one a father: how much better were it for thee, by paining him for a short time, to restore him to health forever, than to make this short-lived pleasure the foundation of a lasting sorrow?"

In addition, such childish concern for feelings harms souls and plays to our pride-prone nature - both for those parties who don't want to do the offending ("I don't want to tell them that, they might not like me") and those they don't want to offend ("considering their mild comments, my actions can't be all that bad").

Likewise, we must always remember that we're part of the Church Militant, that we're engaged in a REAL, SERIOUS, and continual spiritual battle with the world, the flesh, and the devil, and that our entire eternity depends on how we do in this conflict. Even on the secular level, an army could not function well if its leaders were more concerned with soldiers' feelings than with the warfare they were supposed to be engaged in. How much chance do you think solders would stand against the enemies if their leaders failed to give them lifesaving instruction for fear of "hurting their feelings"? Similarly, how can we survive our spiritual warfare if our leaders fail to give us this necessary guidance?

Please, who cares about our overly sensitive feelings! The salvation of our souls is at stake. What good does it do us if our feelings are preserved "unharmed" but our souls are lost for all eternity?

Furthermore, in the modern "caricature" of true Christianity, sinners frequently remind us that we're not supposed to "judge" others (see Mt. 7:1), but they conveniently omit any reference to biblical instructions such as...

"admonish one another" (St. Paul, Col. 3:16, Rom. 15:14)

"admonish them sharply" (St. Paul, Ti. 1:13)

"admonishing everyone" (St. Paul, Col. 1:28)

"If your brother sins, rebuke him" (Jesus Christ, Lk. 17:3)

"Reprimand publicly those who do sin, so that the rest also will be afraid." (St. Paul, 1 Tm. 5:20)

"I wrote you in my letter not to associate with immoral people, not at all referring to the immoral of this world or the greedy and robbers or idolaters; for you would then have to leave the world. But I now write to you not to associate with anyone named a brother, if he is immoral, greedy, an idolater, a slanderer, a drunkard, or a robber, not even to eat with such a person. For why should I be judging outsiders? Is it not your business to judge those within? God will judge those outside. 'Purge the evil person from your midst.'" (St. Paul, 1 Cor. 5:9-13)

While we're certainly not to judge hearts, we are necessarily called to judge actions. This is our duty as Christians. We must do so in order to survive. Even in the secular world, anarchy would reign if there were no judges, no juries, if everything were "left up to the individual".

Although prelates try to convince us we're enjoying a "Second Pentecost"+ since the Second Vatican Council, it is clear that the first Pentecost resulted in the Church leaders shedding their fear and standing firmly & unwaveringly for truth. In fact, St. Peter's first action at Pentecost was to call the Jews (who days previously had been in the true religion) to convert. Those who didn't listen to him did so at their peril (see Acts 2). At Pentecost, St. Peter was not silent. Our leaders today should not be silent either. We need to hear important truths for our own good, even if they are unpleasant.

Finally, if we are going to truly follow Christ, we must expect persecution and suffering, not a false peace. As Christ says...

"Do not think that I have come to bring peace upon the earth. I have come to bring not peace but the sword. For I have come to set a man 'against his father, a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law; and one's enemies will be those of his household.'" (Jesus Christ, Mt. 10:34-36)

"If the world hates you, realize that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, the world would love its own; but because you do not belong to the world, and I have chosen you out of the world, the world hates you. Remember the word I spoke to you, 'No slave is greater than his master.' If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you." (Jesus Christ, Jn. 15:18-20)

"Do you think that I have come to establish peace on the earth? No, I tell you, but rather division. From now on a household of five will be divided, three against two and two against three; a father will be divided against his son and a son against his father, a mother against her daughter and a daughter against her mother, a mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law." (Jesus Christ, Lk. 12:51-53)

Please, dear bishops, if you really love us, get off the "comfy couch of pastoral sensitivity" and remind us continually of hard truths such as...

"Be sober and vigilant. Your opponent the devil is prowling around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour." (St. Peter, 1 Pt. 5:8)

"Anyone who does not remain in me will be thrown out like a branch and wither; people will gather them and throw them into a fire and they will be burned." (Jesus Christ, Jn. 15:6)

"The Son of Man will send his angels, and they will collect out of his kingdom all who cause others to sin and all evildoers. They will throw them into the fiery furnace, where there will be wailing and grinding of teeth." (Jesus Christ, Mt. 13:41-42)

"I do not want you to be unaware, brothers, that our ancestors were all under the cloud and all passed through the sea, and all of them were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea. All ate the same spiritual food, and all drank the same spiritual drink, for they drank from a spiritual rock that followed them, and the rock was the Christ. Yet God was not pleased with most of them, for they were struck down in the desert. These things happened as examples for us, so that we might not desire evil things, as they did. And do not become idolaters, as some of them did, as it is written, 'The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to revel.' Let us not indulge in immorality as some of them did, and twenty-three thousand fell within a single day. Let us not test Christ as some of them did, and suffered death by serpents. Do not grumble as some of them did, and suffered death by the destroyer. These things happened to them as an example, and they have been written down as a warning to us, upon whom the end of the ages has come. Therefore, whoever thinks he is standing secure should take care not to fall." (St. Paul, 1 Cor. 10:1-12)

Our souls are at stake.

+ This term "Second Pentecost" seems offensive enough on its face (Why would we need a "new" Pentecost? Is someone implying the Holy Spirit left the Church at some point? Does anyone dare assert that the destruction that the Church has suffered over the last 4 decades - unmistakably proven statistically by numerous indicators - was the work of the Holy Spirit? ), but it's made even more offensive by the actions (and non actions) of many prelates who claim we're in the midst of such an event yet act entirely contrary to how Scripture says the Church leaders behaved upon receiving the Holy Spirit at Pentecost.

Was this topic is of interest? If so, you might also be interested in the following:

* Tough love in the New Testament

* User-Submitted Article: "10 Commandments" According to the Ignorant & Misguided - PC & False Christianity: A Scriptural Response

* Summary of Changes Since Vatican II: A Revolution in the Church?

[6/23]

Monday, June 22, 2009

Video to "Warm the Heart"

For those not able to attend either the Solemn Pontifical High Mass last Friday celebrated by Bishop Rifan in NY or the Solemn High Mass in CA on Saturday celebrating the 7th Anniversary of the Founding of the Canons Regular of the New Jerusalem, you may be glad to know that video coverage may be found at the following locations (click link to view):

* Diocese of Rockville Centre Blog

* Una Voce San Bernardino Site

[6/22]

Friday, June 19, 2009

Year of Priests

The Year of Priests has begun as of Friday 6/19. This is a great time to show priests your appreciation, and especially to help them by being a good & faithful Catholic. Also, we must:

* Pray for them

* Respect them

* Obey them [of course obedience is necessarily limited to appropriate commands, and is not accorded to commands which violate faith or morals]

* Pray & work for vocations

As Scripture says:

"With all your soul, fear God, revere his priests. With all your strength, love your Creator, forsake not his ministers." (Sirach 7:29-30)

"Honor God and respect the priest" (Sirach 7:31)

Note that Sunday, being Father's Day, provides a good opportunity to honor your priest with a special spiritual and/or material gift.

Some resources on this site you may find helpful include... (click link to view)

* Priests & Vocations Section

* Priests & Vocations Reflections [Quotes from Scripture, popes, saints, etc. on a variety of topics, including: celibacy, church hierarchy, duties & responsibilities of priests, clerical dress, good / bad priests, holiness, preaching, priests / priesthood, priests & the sacraments, vows, etc.]

* Prayers for Priests

* Priests & Vocations Facts

[6/19]

Thursday, June 18, 2009

Rewarding lawbreakers

The president of the USCCB has called for "comprehensive immigration reform legislation". He claims "we do not approve or encourage the illegal entry of anyone into our country" but then seems to call for amnesty. Isn't amnesty essentially "approving and encouraging" those who have broken the law? Could someone please explain how it is possible to "not approve or encourage" breaking the law if you reward precisely those who do break the law? Even elementary school children are smart enough to know that rewards influence behavior. Our bishops don't know that? [Note: Previous story here] [6/18]

Wednesday, June 17, 2009

The Real Climate Change

Considering the recent "doom & gloom" report issued by the White House, it seems a good time to contemplate the "global warming" agenda. Not being a scientist with fancy credentials, these thoughts won't be lofty or technical, but more a probe of the impetus behind the movement and some of its unanswered questions.

To begin with, the report - authored by governmental agencies, universities & research institutions - says that global warming is...

* "unequivocal"

* happening now

* caused primarily by humans

* effecting the entire U.S.

* worsening

* already partially irreversible

* affected by choices made today

Grave predictions are associated with this report. For example...

* More floods, tornadoes & hurricanes

* "Significant" increase in heat related deaths

* Harm to crops

* "Extreme" heat waves

* More air pollution

* Increased occurrences of wildfires

* Water shortages

* Increase in insects

* Harm to the economy

Scary stuff. But, yet some things may nevertheless be found questionable with regard to the "climate change" movement. For example:

* If "global warming" is so certain and "unequivocal", why do thousands and thousands of scientists disagree?

* If "global warming" is true, why were scientists in the recent past concerned about "global cooling" - a supposed coming "ice age"?

* "How can they predict global warming 100 years into the future when they cannot predict the temperature accurately for next weekend?"

* How can they prove that "warming" isn't normal & cyclical? How do they counter critics' claims that the supposed warming is "moderate and not unprecedented"? That these are simply normal & natural climate cycles?

* How can they prove "warming" isn't caused by natural changes with respect to the sun as some suggest?

* How can they prove their "climate models" are accurate, especially in light of the deficiencies some say exist?

* If "global warming" was caused by humans, why might certain elements be traced back to periods of history in which it would have been impossible for people to have been the cause?

* If "global warming" was true, why have "propaganda pieces", such as Gore's movie, been shown to contain "substantial inaccuracies and false claims"?

* If "global warming" is getting worse, why was one recent year noted as the "coldest year of the decade"?

* Why have the alarmists "overlooked or downplayed" benefits that some "atmospheric changes" have supposedly brought?

* Have they concretely proven (not just alleged) that mere humans - who make up only a very small part of this planet - have caused such a catastrophic impact? ("In the absence of fire, could a lone fly heat up the entire Empire State Building?") And furthermore, have they even remotely considered the planet's - like the body's - remarkable ability to "heal" itself?

* How can they prove (not just allege) that human behavior is the driving force in "global warming"? Why do critics point to the insignificance of human factors in comparison with naturally occurring factors (e.g. volcanoes)?

* How do they counter critics' charges that their "cause & effect determinations are erroneous"?

* Are some supposed effects of "global warming" - e.g. erosion - really just normal occurrences that are to be expected? Didn't they occur many times in the past - long before humans could have been "responsible for global warming"?

* How can we trust their results as "scientific" when it would have been impossible for them to accurately compare temperatures over long periods of time? Remember that reliable measurements are available only for more recent years. They obviously must have based their findings on mere "estimations and calculations" - not actual empirical data. [And, even if changes could be reliably measured over the small span of the past 50 years, this wouldn't prove that observed variations are anomalies. Perhaps such variations have occurred repeatedly over past millenniums. Without reliable measurements for the past thousands of years, we couldn't know for certain.]

Also...

* Why does some significant evidence appear to contradict their theory?

* Why does the mainstream media fail to report evidence which is contrary to the alarmists' claims?

* Why is equal press time not given to those who reject the concept of "global warming"?

* Why are alarmists' claims given a good deal of attention when they are made but when they are disproved this fact is given little or no attention?

* How can we be absolutely certain that alarmists' claims are scientifically rather than politically motivated?

* Do we really believe government can "stop" climate change?

* How can they disprove critics' claims which speak of "faulty science", "lack of evidence", "untrue claims", "misrepresentations", "a hoax", "inaccuracies", "exaggerations", "lies"? Since they make the claim of "global warming", it seems the burden of proof must rest with them.

* Is it true that some dissenting research papers have been ignored? That certain "researchers" ignore opposition? That they gloss over findings which disagree with their already held positions? That "intimidation tactics" have been used? That dissenting scientists are "afraid" to speak out because they may lose research money or be ostracized by colleagues - or have their careers ruined?

* How do they counter charges that some have a financial interest in the outcome of supposedly "scientific" findings regarding "global warming"?

* Isn't it a bit convenient that such an extreme alarmist report has come out while legislation regarding "global warming" is stalled in congress? As one person said regarding the report, "One has to hope it will influence how people think about particular legislative proposals."

* How can we be assured that this is not simply "scare tactics & fear mongering"? Alarmists point to "catastrophic changes", "an enemy threatening public health", a "state of emergency" and say there is no time for delay. And there is, of course - conveniently - no time for debate.

Ultimately, what is most scary about this movement is the effect it will likely have upon us and on our freedoms. Don't we have very good reason to fear that this is an agenda to further tax & regulate people, take away freedoms, redistribute wealth, raise prices (especially for fuel), promote abortion and euthanasia, and gain power? Isn't this some very handy "artillery" to force people to make unwanted or harmful lifestyle changes (e.g. have fewer children; drive smaller, less safe cars)? Isn't this the perfect opportunity to advance the agendas of global government and depopulation? Haven't we seen over and over again how those in power provoke fear and then profit from it? Haven't we experienced many false alarms in the past - supposed "crises" that simply vanish away without coming true? Doesn't sad experience show us that we can't blindly trust alarmists and politicians, especially those who have agendas? Don't their actions already illustrate that the "fear mongering" will eventually lead policy-makers to discover new "environmental crimes" which could result in persons being fined, sent to jail, or even (in some countries) receiving the death penalty?

Isn't it already troubling that children are being indoctrinated into accepting "global warming" as an indisputable fact? Isn't it also unnerving that everywhere we go someone tries to brainwash us into acceptance of the "global warming dogma"? Isn't it bothersome that those who don't accept "the party line" on 'global warming' are likely to be ridiculed & ostracized?

Finally, even if global warming was actually true, could we safely trust politicians to "fix" this supposed problem if they hold anti-Christian values, if they are anti-life, and if they have no qualms about "taxing us into the poorhouse"?

Again, not being a scientist and thereby not able to evaluate the highly technical arguments on their merits one may simply consider what is readily observable. If nothing else, the above point to some serious "red flags" with regard to supposed "global warming". Besides, biblically speaking, isn't it fair to say that the end of the earth will be advanced by moral sins rather than "environmental sins"? Scripture doesn't speak of the end of the earth coming due to some "impersonal" crumbling of ecosystems but rather in relation to Christ's second coming. Obviously the real end of the world won't be preventable merely by adopting "green" policies.

Lastly, it is true that there is one climate change prevention effort that IS undisputedly worth our efforts. That is preventing THE real "global warming" that we may experience after death if our souls are not saved. And the threat of this "climate change" is undeniably real. Not only that, but it is eternal, unfixable, and is the direct result of each sufferer's own actions. It is incumbent upon each of us to do all we can to avoid this "global warming". Fortunately, preventing this dreaded "climate change" requires no scientists, politicians, regulations or taxes. [6/17]

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

Update

The disgraced FL priest who defected to a heretical sect has reportedly "married" the 'divorced' woman he was having an affair with (of course he cannot be validly married to her if her husband is still alive and she was validly married to him). May God give them both the grace of true contrition. "God will not forgive us any sin, whether mortal or venial, unless we have true contrition for it." (Baltimore Catechism) [Note: Previous story here] [6/16]

Defeat for traditionalists?

The long-rumored transfer of Archbishop Ranjith has been formally announced. He will be succeeded by American Archbishop-elect Joseph Augustine DiNoia. Is this a really a defeat for traditionalists? Time will tell, but signs seem to indicate the opposite. For example:

* It is thought that Archbishop Ranjith may now be in line for a red hat, possibly as early as next year

* Archbishop-elect Joseph Augustine DiNoia has been quoted as saying: "The great danger is when the focus [of the liturgy] is on the celebrating community [instead of on God]" and "I think the liturgy should give us a sense of the heavenly liturgy; it's about God, not us"

Now that doesn't sound like a defeat for traditionalists, does it? [6/16]

Monday, June 15, 2009

"It's not about being Catholic"

Once again, we witness the sad results of Catholics' loss of the sensus Catholicus - this time in the dispute in Texas. Parishioners at the remote parish are unhappy because the diocese wants to demolish their hurricane-damaged church. They believe the building can be repaired and have taken the matter to (civil) court where a judge issued a restraining order on their behalf. In the meantime, rather than arrange appropriate accommodations, some parishioners took it upon themselves to schedule a Mass at a Methodist 'church'. Fortunately, the diocese apparently ordered the priest to stay away from the event (unfortunately, it is not clear if it was for the most essential reason - some claim it was "in retribution"). Sadly, the parishioners went ahead with their own priestless "service" at the aforementioned 'temple of heresy', a Methodist 'church', led by heretical "ministers".

Why these Catholics would voluntarily choose to adore God at a place erected solely for the purpose of heretical worship boggles the mind. We know that holy persons of the past would have chosen martyrdom rather than step foot on such unholy ground.

It seems even more evidence that decades of ecumenism have destroyed the sensus Catholicus. Don't these people realize that...?

* This 'temple of heresy' is a profane place that Catholics should not enter. It exists for the sole purpose of heretical "worship" by those in a false, man-made religion which is set up in opposition to the one true Church of Christ. Keep in mind that false religions deny the hierarchical nature of Church, papal supremacy, papal infallibility, the Immaculate Conception, Christ's true Flesh and Blood in the Holy Eucharist, etc. They advocate false doctrines, reject and distort parts of the Bible & they may tolerate or promote sins such as contraception, euthanasia, abortion, divorce, etc.

* If there is a so-called 'altar' there, it would be a great offense to lay the Holy Eucharist on this unblessed & profane place used to conduct false worship.

* Despite numerous warnings in scripture, these people have willingly "opened their ears" to false clergy, listened to 'scripture' which was (presumably) from a corrupt - heretical - translation, and allowed themselves to be led in prayer by "wolves" (false preachers).

In the past, the penalty for such actions would have been excommunication: "None must either pray or sing psalms with heretics; and whomsoever shall communicate with those who are cut off from the Communion of the Church, whether clergymen or laic, let him be excommunicated." (Council of Carthage, 398 A.D.)

Even the Second Vatican Council has said "Common participation in worship (communicatio in sacris) which harms the unity of the Church or involves formal acceptance of error or the danger of aberration in the faith, of scandal and indifferentism, is forbidden by divine law."

These people apparently are somehow unaware - or don't care - that their actions are an offense to almighty God and cause scandal. They also appear to be contemptuous of the diocese (one story reads: "Parishioners vow to have the service if only to send a message of their displeasure to the archdiocese").

If only they would take a lesson from Scripture...

"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)

"If anyone comes to you and does not bring this doctrine, do not receive him in your house or even greet him; for whoever greets him shares in his evil works." (St. John, 2 Jn. 1:10-11)

"Do not be yoked with those who are different, with unbelievers. For what partnership do righteousness and lawlessness have? Or what fellowship does light have with darkness? What accord has Christ with Beliar? Or what has a believer in common with an unbeliever? What agreement has the temple of God with idols? For we are the temple of the living God; as God said: 'I will live with them and move among them, and I will be their God and they shall be my people. Therefore, come forth from them and be separate,' says the Lord, 'and touch nothing unclean; then I will receive you and I will be a father to you, and you shall be sons and daughters to me, says the Lord Almighty.'" (St. Paul, 2 Cor. 6:14-18)

A little history lesson might also be of assistance...

* St. John the Apostle wouldn't so much as remain in the same building (a secular edifice) with a heretic ["Everyone knows that John himself, the Apostle of love, who seems in his Gospel to have revealed the secrets of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and who never ceased to impress upon the memory of his disciples the new commandment 'to love one another', nevertheless strictly forbade any intercourse with those who professed a mutilated and corrupt form of Christ's teaching: 'If any man comes to you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into the house, nor say to him, God speed you.' (2 John 1:10)" (Pope Pius XI, "Mortalium Animos", 1928 A.D.)

* A disciple of the St. John the Apostle referred to a heretic as "the first-born of Satan ["Irenaeus himself relates with regard to his master Polycarp {who was a disciple of St. John the Apostle}, how, when being asked by the heretic Marcion if he knew him, he replied: 'I know thee to be the first-born of Satan.' He also tells us that St. John {the Apostle} hearing that Cerinthus was in the same public edifice into which he had just entered, fled precipitately, for fear, as he said, that because of this enemy of truth the walls of the building would crumble down upon them all: 'so great,' remarks the bishop of Lyons, 'was the fear the apostles and their disciples had of communicating, even by word, with any one of those who altered truth.'" (Liturgical Year)]

* Another disciple of St. John the Apostle said those who listen to heretics will be dammed ["Do not err, my brethren: the corrupters of families will not inherit the kingdom of God. And if they who do these things according to the flesh suffer death, how much more if a man corrupt by evil teaching the faith of God, for the sake of which Jesus Christ was crucified? A man become so foul will depart into unquenchable fire; and so also will anyone who listens to him." (St. Ignatius of Antioch, a hearer of St. John the Apostle, c. 110 A.D.)]

* Throughout history, popes, councils, and numerous saints warned of the danger of associating with heretics. We know also that saints would give up their lives rather than partake part in 'worship' with heretics or enter heretical 'churches' - "temples of Satan". As St. Ephraem the Syrian, Doctor of the Church has said, "Fly from them and from their doctrines; do not go near them, for you know that whoever is found in a place where outrage has been offered to the king has to come into court to be questioned according to law. Even if he can prove he was not guilty he will be condemned for want of zeal. Do not sit with heretics nor associate with apostates."

Frankly, their use of this facility makes as much sense asking one's avowed mortal enemy to borrow his house to celebrate your birthday. These parishioners would probably know better than to do that, but somehow they didn't know better than to use such unholy ground to "worship" God? Do they actually think God is pleased that they have used this "temple of Satan" for "worship"? Will anyone tell these poor, misguided people to get to confession; that they have - objectively speaking - betrayed the Catholic faith, and God? As one participant in the "worship service" said, "This is not about being Catholic." At least there's one thing they got right.

[6/15]

Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Monday, June 29, 2009

Saturday, June 27, 2009

Friday, June 26, 2009

Thursday, June 25, 2009

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Monday, June 22, 2009

Friday, June 19, 2009

Thursday, June 18, 2009

Wednesday, June 17, 2009

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

Monday, June 15, 2009

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