July 2, 2009

 

Official Announcement Made From The Holy See That July 7th Will Be The Official Release Date Of The Eagerly Awaited Encyclical Caritas et Veritate (Charity In Truth)  Well the date has been set for the official release of this most anticipated encyclical. The title is most intriguing. It suggests that there is truth in our world, much to the chagrin of those who can't stop rolling their eyes everytime Pope Benedict uses the phrase Dictatorship of Relativism. Like most papal announcements on the economy, there are sure to be those who disagree. However, the Holy Father's job is to make sure that both economic justice and personal liberties are being respected.

 

Click Here For Comments About Upcoming Papal Encyclical

 

Dr. Ed Peters (The Canon Lawyer) Rips Vatican Newspaper  Editor Gian Maria Vian For Recent Coverage Sometimes the ego of man can even creep into holy places like that of the Vatican. In this case, the L'Osservatore's editor seems to be trying to make a name for himself. Ed Peters holds nothing back in this article. Thanks to Tito Edwards at Cvstos Fidei for this one.

 

Click Here For Comments About Ed Peters Article

 

Father Finigan On The Testy Response From Winnipeg's Archbishop Weisgerber That Catholic Bloggers Aren't Part Of The Church Ever notice how some in the Church preach and scream that the laity needs to be more fully involved in the Church. However, when the laity does become active in the defense of orthodoxy, well then that is crossing the line. Father Finigan sets the record straight.

 

Click Here For Comments About Father Finigan's Post

 

Salesians Open Up Their First Don Bosco Home In Thailand, Home Will Be Geared To Help Teenagers It is nice to to see the hopes and dreams of Don Bosco becoming realized in lands that he never traveled. I have seen the Salesians in action and the work they do for the disadvantaged is truly underappreciated.

 

Click Here For Comments About Salesians Open First Don Bosco Home In Thailand

 

Canadian Bishop Frederick Henry Details His Story From Altar Boy To Bishop, Cites Sacred Mysteries Impact On His Early Life  I believe it is very important for young men to hear stories such as this, since it too puts the idea in their head that maybe they are called to something holy. Most young men can't fathom what it is like to be a bishop, let alone allowing the Holy Spirit to steer you in that direction. This Canadian bishop describes his journey from altar boy to bishop.

 

Click Here For Comments About Canadian Bishop Details Life From Altar Boy To Bishop

  

In Light Of An Early Painting Of Saint Paul Released To The Media, Here's a 4th Century Painting Of Saint Peter 

 

Catholic Answers Article Concerning St Peter In Rome With all of the spotlight on the archeological find of St Paul's tomb, we musn't forget the truly amazing discovery of Saint Peter during and shortly after World War II. Thanks be to God for these amazing discoveries.  Sadly, despite the evidence put forth by those who aren't even Catholic, some believers, a few militant fundamentalists still say Saint Peter was not in Rome. They need our prayers.

 

Click Here For Comments About St Peter In Rome

 

 

      

 

 

The Tide Is Turning Toward Catholicism.  Here Are Some Facts About The Book & Some Testimonials From Catholic Clergy, Catholic University Founders, Writers, Famous Coaches, Actors Etc.  A little over one year ago, a simple article that took 45 minutes to write debuted. After being picked up by countless blogs and websites, it has become a book.  This  book was written in a few months but only after spending literally day and night writing it.  I felt telling the good news in the book was something I had to do.  It is now available through Catholic Word by calling 1 800 932 3826 or cathsales@tds.net.  You may also purchase it online via pay pal. See link on the upper right hand side of this page. It should also be available in most Catholic bookstores.  For more info on what's in the book read the link above.  I think you will find it helpful! 

 

July 1, 2009

 

Pope Benedict Bestows Pallium On 34 Archbishops (Metropolitans Of The Church)

 

Some Great Picture Of These Prelates Receiving Their Palliums The great tradition of the pallium continues to this day. Our Curch is so full of symbolism and this is certainly a great example of it. How blessed are we to have these sacred traditions which goes back for centuries. The symbolism is a story in and of itself. Some of you may be asking isn't a metropolitan something one would find in an Orthodox Church? Actually our church has metropoliticans too. For example, the Metropolitian for the state of Ohio would be Archbishop Pilarczyk of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Archbishop Nienstedt for the state of Minnesota and Archbishop Naumann for the state of Kansas, and so it goes. 

 

Click Here For Comments About The Bestowing Of The Palliums

 

Report On Atlanta, One Of America's Ordination Hotspots, Many Say Not Only Is The Clergy Very Orthodox-Minded  But So Are The Laity Employed By The Archdiocese  It wasn't all too long ago that Atlanta was hardly considered an orthodox bastion by many orthodox-minded Catholics. Yet, look what a few short years have done. The archdiocese is now one of America's biggest suppliers of seminarians. Still another sign that the tide is turning.

 

Click Here For Comments About Atlanta's Turnaround

 

Liberals Rejoice Ahead Of Pope Benedict's Encyclical Hoping He Will Criticise Capitalism. Yet No One Has Actually Read The Encyclical & The Holy Father's Views Are Clearly Known I guess liberals in the Church are desperate for any good news. The Holy Father is obviously not their ally. However, when they hear snippets of his upcoming encyclical, they can't help but rejoice even though there really isn't any indication that the Holy Father suggests we should go down the same economic route they would prefer.

 

Click Here For Comments About Liberals Seem Happy Over Upcoming Papal Encyclical

   

Sandro Magister On The Behind The Scenes Story Of The Saint Paul Discovery  The behind the scene story as well as the ancient world's view of Paul & Peter is discussed by Sandro Magister. It really gets to the heart of the matter as to how the Early Church looked at both men and why the early painting of St Paul looks as it does. I think this article is really worth your while if you are in to these behind the scenes looks at ancient discoveries. I really enjoy this sort of thing.

 

Click Here For Comments About Sandro Magister's Article

 

U2's Bono Reveals New Song Entitled Magnificat Was Inspired By The Blessed Mother  Bono grew up in a rather different household than most other boys in Dublin. His mother was Anglican and his father Catholic. His mother died when he was a boy which obviously altered his life. The song I Will Follow is summary of that. Anyway, though his main influence was not Catholicism he did have a great deal (most likely from his schooling) rub off on him. While many in the alternative rock world often sneer at religion, it is nice to see Bono tell everyone how important faith is for him. Thanks to Spirit Daily for this link.

 

Click Here For Comments About Bono Reveals Song Inspired By The Blessed Mother

 

Christianity Today Interview With Jim Cavaziel & Steve McEveety On Their Role In The Movie Stoning Soraya M  Interesting interview with these two men so powerfully connected to the faithful world through the Passion of the Christ. I had the privilege of meeting Steve McEveety in his motion picture office while  I was in Hollywood a couple of years ago. He really has his pulse not only on the general world of cinema with pictures like Bravheart and What Women Want but in religious films like the Passion of the Christ.

 

Click Here For Comments About Christianity Today's Interview With Jim Cavaziel & Steve McEveety

 

 

 

Here's Steve McEveety The Man Behind The Stoning Of Soraya M As Well As Bravehart, What Women Want & Of Course The Passion Of The Christ. He Was Kind Enough To Meet With Me In 2007 At His Then Temporary Studios In Hollywood. I Believe He Has Since Moved Into More Spacious Digs Closer To The Coast. The Meeting Was Arranged By One Of Our Loyal California Readers Who Has Ties To The Movie Industry. It Was Nice To Meet Such A Faith Filled Man In An Industry Where They Are Often Few & Far Between.

 

      

 

 

The Tide Is Turning Toward Catholicism.  Here Are Some Facts About The Book & Some Testimonials From Catholic Clergy, Catholic University Founders, Writers, Famous Coaches, Actors Etc.  A little over one year ago, a simple article that took 45 minutes to write debuted. After being picked up by countless blogs and websites, it has become a book.  This  book was written in a few months but only after spending literally day and night writing it.  I felt telling the good news in the book was something I had to do.  It is now available through Catholic Word by calling 1 800 932 3826 or cathsales@tds.net.  You may also purchase it online via pay pal. See link on the upper right hand side of this page. It should also be available in most Catholic bookstores.  For more info on what's in the book read the link above.  I think you will find it helpful!  

 

 

June 30, 2009

 

On Sunday Pope Benedict Mentioned The Recent Archeological Evidence Surrounding St Paul's Tomb. Now Comes More Info From The Archeaological Field Of This Fascinating Evidence

 

Rocco Palmo Has Some Excerpts Of The Holy Father's Mention Of The Historical Evidence Discovered At St Paul's Tomb, Along With Some Pictures Of St Paul Outside The Walls Our Catholic Faith is one that is both seen and unseen. We all know that Faith is the evidence of things unseen, the miraculous, the change of heart caused by something we can't physically explain all helps us understand the complexities of our Catholic faith. However, we also have the seen, the evidence for holy men like Saints Paul and Peter. Thank God for these little windows into  the 2,000 year old past of our Catholic Faith.

 

Click Here For Comments About Historical Find Concerning St Paul's Tomb Scientifically Verifed

 

British Writer On The Five Homilies He Would Like To Hear But Probably Never Will Sometimes we think what we hope for is impossible. Who knows maybe this British writer will hear what he hopes to hear.  Sometimes I think it is a culmination of many years of negative news stories coupled with a lack of knowledge of the good that is happening. Since The Tide is Turning, it could be nearer than he thinks.

 

Click Here For Comments About British Writer & The Five Homilies He Would Like To Hear

 

Anglican Church Leader In New Zealand Proposes Virtual Eucharist? I sometimes wonder if these folks who try to make things they way they would like them to be ever realize the nuttiness of their ideas. What's so wrong with doing it the way Jesus asked? I guess this goes to the heart of the problem, these folks often think they are smarter than Jesus. Two thousand years ago, one other person had the same problem, I hope they realize the error of their ways before they suffer the same fate as he did. Thanks to Spirit Daily for this link.

 

Click Here For Comments About Anglican Virtual Eucharist Project

 

In Bosnia Catholics Numbers Rapidly Declining As Many Move To Western Europe Or North America, Muslim & Orthodox Population On The Rise  Sad story from the land that has given us so many saints, miracles and news headlines in the last few years. Many Sociologists feel that Catholics in this part of he world feel out of place. They feel a much closer union with those in Western and Central Europe, where Democracy and Capitalism are not viewed with suspicion.

 

Click Here For Comments About Bosnia Catholics Declining In Number & Migrating Westward

 

From Debka A Sad Report On How The Iranian Government Used Western Technology To Squash Pro Democracy Movement  A sad day indeed when it is realized that the very high tech surveillance instruments that keeps this muderous regime in power came from western companies just glad to help whoever will pay them. These companies probably don't realize that if the murderous regime had their way, the lifetsyles of these folks would forever change if their aspirations would be realized.

 

Click Here For Comments About Iranian Government Using Western Technology To Silence Pro Democracy Movement

 

Priest Who Blessed The Movie Set Of The Exorcist, After Some Mysterious Deaths & Injuries Had Occurred, Has Died At The Age Of  80. The Georgetown Jesuit Was The Founder Of The Campus' Pro Life Group Here is an interesting account of the priest who blessed the movie set of the Exorcist. It appears he did so after some injuries and even a death occured at the set under mysterious circumstances. This Jesuit priest led an intersting life. He also started Georgetown's pro life faculty chapter.

 

Click Here For Comments About Priest Who Blessed The Movie Set Of The Exorcist Dies At The Age Of 80

 

 

June 29, 2009

 

Pope Benedict Reflects On Saint Paul As The Pauline Year Comes To A Close  The Holy Father reflects on Saint Paul as the Pauline Year comes to a close.  There has been a great deal of disussion on Saint Paul in the various conferences held during this special year. Let us hope and pray that all, whetever their state (sinful or graceful) realizes that we all have a responsibility as Saint Paul so often reminded us to spread the Good News.

 

Click Here For Comments About The Year Of Saint Paul Comes To A Close

  

Bishop Koch Of Basel, Switzerland On Those Who Misappropriate The True Vision Of Vatican II  A rather interesting look at Vatican II from the perspective of this Swiss bishop who reminds the faithful what was truly desired by the Second Vatican Council and what was not. It seems some in the Church are still trying to spin the Council' swords to fit their social and political views. Father Zuhlsdorf analyzes His Excellency's remarks.

 

Click Here For Comments About Bishop Koch Of Basel Speaks Out Against Those Who  Misappropriate Vatican II

 

In Catholic Online, Deacon Keith Fournier On The Fifth Column In The Catholic Church  We all know it exists and Deacon Keith Fournier goes into further details by examining those who openly rebel against the Church from the inside. Once they get their foot in the door, they go from there and try to take out the very leadership that might have thought they were being pastoral by giving them a voice in the first place.

 

Click Here For Comments About Deacon Keith Fournier's Article On The Catholic Fifth Column

 

Deal Hudson On The Good News About Our Bishops  I no sooner saw this when a host of e-mails came my way from some of our readers. As if we needed more evidence that the tide is turning, here it is. However, just in case more evidence was needed, well this should suffice that the new prelates being named are very different from some of those named 20-40 years ago.

 

Click Here For Comments About Deal Hudson's Article On The Good News About Our Bishops

 

Rocco Palmo On Two Important Documents Coming Soon From Pope Benedict  Here is an interesting look at two documents coming from the Holy Father, one having to do with the long promised encyclical. The other deals with welcoming home some traditional elements who had left but now have returned, or want to return to the Church.

 

Click Here For Comments About Two Important Documents To Come Soon From Pope Benedict

 

Cardinal O'Malley Pulls Out Of Health Care Venture With Company When It Was Discovered They Were An Abortion Provider  Well this has been a debacle from day one. Cardinal O'Malley inherited lots of awful deals and contracts. It has taken him a while to come out from under it all. However, it seems that he is trying to right the ship, and for this we should rejoice and continue our prayers for him.

 

Click Here For Comments About Cardinal O'Malley Pulls Out Of Health Care Venture

 

Translation Error Seems To Be Responsible For Arc Of The Covenant Controversy, Ethiopian Orthodox Patriarch Said He Had Seen The Arc Of The Covenant, Not That He Will Reveal The Arc Of The Covenant  I think we all expected something like this would happen when we first read the story. In the words of the late Paul Harvey, here's the rest of the story.  It seems some translator got carried away and mistook the Patriarch's comments.

 

Click Here For Comments About Translation Error Cited In Mistake Over Arc Of The Covenant Supposed Unveiling

 

  

June 28, 2009

 

Pope Benedict Lauds The Charity Work Of The Knights Of Malta  We are blessed to have so many charitable organizations within the Church. The Knights of Malta got their start during the  Crusades providing hosptial care to those in Jerusalem. They have evolved from there to be one of the premier charitable institutions in the Church. It is interesting that one of the comments that I frequently hear from converts relates to the fact that few knew how many religious orders and organizations there are within the Church to fulfill Christ's message.

 

Click Here For Comments About Pope Benedict Lauds The Work Of The Knights Of Malta

 

On This Day For Peter's Pence, Where It Goes & Which Nations Give The Most For whatever reason, I remember this collection from my earliest days as a child. Maybe it was the name of it and maybe it was a homily I heard from a priest when I was barely in school. I have always been fascinated by it. This collection does much to state the universality of the Church, where folks the world over help the Holy Father with matters in his own back yard. Here is a rundown of the collection numbers throughout the world.

 

Click Here For Comments About Peter's Pence

 

Retired & Disgraced Archbishop Weakland Continues To Attack The Church's Teachings How said when one continues to jeporadize one's salvation time and time again because of engaging in rebellious activites for which they know the consequences. We all sin but I doubt very much that few if any of us openly take on the Church with the knowledge that we possess. In this case a retired senior prelate of the Church is literally throwing caution to the wind for the whims of his urges.

 

Click Here For Comments About Archbishop Weakland

 

Definitions & Criteria Attempted For Near Death Experiences  Near death experiences have been around for centuries. However it is only in recent times that science has begun to study them in depth.  In this article we read about the various categorizations of Near Death experiences. Thanks to Spirit Daily for this link. Many atheiests believe that these near death expereiences are the brain beginning to short and spark out giving us images and hoped for ideas. However that theory doesn't hold water when one considers those who describe the roof of the hospital and the air conditioning units on top when one was brought in through the Emergency Room and not via the roof (helicopter.) Also the light described is very similar the world over. One more thing, the images of the dark side are startling and full of dread, often for the very people who claimed there was no such thing.

 

Click Here For Comments About Near Death Experiences

 

High In The Andes Mountains,  Peruvians Mark Christ's Appearance To A Shepherd Boy  There are so many great encounters like this one in history. It seems the Risen Lord and the Blessed Mother have appeared in each and every culture. I thought you might enjoy hearing about this encounter high in the Andes.

 

Click Here For Comments About Peruvians Mark Christ's Appearance In Andes Mountains

 

Catholic U Alumni Recall Ed McMahon's Charity Toward The University & His Efforts As Past Alumni President. McMahon Came To The University To Study Drama On The GI Bill Following Action In World War II  When one hears of Ed McMahon one often thinks of his sidekick days with Johnny Carson or his "You May Already Have Won One Million Dollars With The Publishers Clearinghouse Sweepstakes." Sadly we might also remember his final days spent in bankruptcy. I guess what we didn't know was that he helped many people which may have aided in his financial woes. Also it seems he never stooped supporting or working for his alma mater Catholic University.

 

Click Here For Comments About Ed McMahon

 

 

June 27, 2009

 

List Of 34 Prelates (Including 5 From The US) Who Will Receive Palliums From Pope Benedict  Here is the list of those receiving the Pallium from Pope Benedict. They hail from many countries and this is quite an honor. Here is a little bit more background on the pallium. Scroll down a little bit on this link and you will find a great deal of information on the pallium.

 

Click Here For Comments About 34 Prelates To Receive Palliums

 

Despite Governement Misgivings, Pakistanis Now Have Catholic Radio & TV Channels To Chose From  It isn't easy to spread the Gospel, people still get killed for doing it. However, because of their faith more people are coming to the One True Faith.  The faithful in Pakistan need our prayers. I remember discussing this with a priest who had spent many years in Pakistan. He explained to me the certain ethnic groups in Pakistan and who was more likely to convert than others. It is a rather fascinating historical and sociological phenomena.

 

Click Here For Comments About Catholic Radio & TV Now Available In Pakistan, Despite Government Misgivings

  

Elizabeth Lev Wonders What The Impact Of The Pauline Year Will Be? 

 

Father Mitch Pacwa's SJ Saint Paul Bible Study An interesting article from Elizabeth Lev. There has been a great deal of discussion about Saint Paul. Father Mitch Pacwa's book has been a great revelation for many, especially non Catholics concerning the "Catholic Saint Paul." It has been used as a theme for countless conferences this year, one in particular that I attended was the Coming Home Network Conference held in Columbus where Father Mitch Pacwa, Scott Hahn and Marcus Grodi, among many others spoke on the subject of Saint Paul.

 

Click Here For Comments About Pauline Year Comes To A Close & Father Pacwa's Saint Paul Bible Study

  

In Dearborn, Michigan, Christian Arabs Are Denied The Same Right To Hand Out The Same General Religious Materials That Muslim Arabs Are Able To Pass Out  Sometimes the heavy handedness displayed toward the faithful is so overwhelming that you can believe your eyes and ears. Here is another prime example in the nation's most populace Arab-American city. Some twenty years ago Southeast Michigan was primarily filled with Christian Arabs. However, in the last couple of decades large numbers of Muslim Arabs have come. It seems the Christian faithful are getting the short end of the stick on this one.

 

Click Here For Comments About Dearbon Double Standard

 

Mona Charen Says Shame Is Deader Than Dead, Says Governor Sanford's Self Absorbed News Conference & Journalist Who Wrote She Wouldn't Give Up Her Trysts, Even For Her Children Are Proof Of That  My freinds this is what happens when religion is either taken out of our lives and the public realm or watered down so much that it becomes like some sort of fad diet easily replaced with something more exciting. The sad thing is that "excitement" which is really sin becomes an albatross around our neck or a Sword of Damaclese ready to desecend down upon us.

 

Click Here For Comments About Mona Charen's Article On The Death Of Shame

 

 

June 26, 2009

 

Pope Benedict Speaks Of Human Suffering & Our Bond With Christ's Suffering, Says Only Christ Can Truly Relieve The World's Suffering The Holy Father reminds us of the cross we are all to carry. This is not a popular subject in the modern world, and often not even among all Christians. Yet, we are all called to it, whether we like it or not. 

 

Click Here For Comments About Pope Benedict's Reflections On Suffering

  

Ark Of The Covenant To Be Unveiled? Ethiopian Orthodox Patriarch In Rome To Meet With Pope Benedict Says The Ark Will Be Unvield In Ethiopia Where It Supposedly Has Been Residing For Centuries  No, this is not a link to the National Enquirer or  some other tabloid.  At least we know that the unveiling will soon happen. What will it be and will the Ethiopian Patriarch agree to have it carbon dated? Why is it being revealed now? You may have seen a host of reports through the years and even on Cable TV networks like the History, Discovery or National Geogrpahic Channels. They usually end up at a simple church (St Mary's) in a small Ethiopian town. If this report can be believed, it will happen today.

 

Click Here For Comments About Ark Of The Covenant To Be Unveiled?

 

Maronite Patriarch Sfeir Verbally Confronts Hezbollah  This brave Patriarch's job may have become easier now that the Sugar Daddy's of Hezbollah, the Iranian government has their hands full at home. Let us never forget to keep our Maronite Catholics brethern in our prayers. Thanks to Tito Edwards at Cvstos Fidei for this link.

 

Click Here For Comments About Patriarch Sfeir

   

In The UK, Damian Thompson Pleasantly Surprised By Archbishop Nicols Restoration Of Devotions. The Bishop Who Onced Donned Star Trek Like Vestments Has Now Now Returned The English Church To Liturgical Orthodoxy Much To The Chagrin Of The Liberals  Liberals and orthodox minded cynics will simply say the future Cardinal has taken note of which way the litrugical wind is blowing. However, as Damian points out, our Faith is all about seeing the error of our ways and making that which was bad, good again.

 

Click Here For Comments About Positive Changes Made By Archbishop Nichols

  

Author Says Fairness Doctrine Would Threaten Religious Radio Stations  Isn't it ironic that strong armed despots of the world always try to use "Democratic" or "Fairness" in their vocabulary. We all know that they are neither Fair nor Democratic. Catholic radio is making a difference. We need to pray for it's continued success.

 

Click Here For Comments About Fairness Doctrine & Religious Radio

  

Relic Of St Therese Of Lisieux Stolen From St Michael's In Toronto

 

US Astronaut To Take Relic Of St Therese Of Lisieux Into Space During Mission I have been to this beautiful church in Toronto and I am very sad to hear of this theft. When my wife and I were there the Church was constantly being visited by the faithful, mainly older Asian men and women. I think if anyone would have seen this theft occurring heaven help the perpetrator. Thanks to our loyal reader Pax Christi for this first link. As for the second link concerning an astronaut carrying a relic into space, well that is something few would have even thought about within our lifetimes, let alone the ancient Catholic faithful.

 

Click Here For Comments About Stolen Relic Of St Therese Of Liseux & Relic Taken To Space

 

     

 

 

The Tide Is Turning Toward Catholicism.  Here Are Some Facts About The Book & Some Testimonials From Catholic Clergy, Catholic University Founders, Writers, Famous Coaches, Actors Etc.  A little over one year ago, a simple article that took 45 minutes to write debuted. After being picked up by countless blogs and websites, it has become a book.  This  book was written in a few months but only after spending literally day and night writing it.  I felt telling the good news in the book was something I had to do.  It is now available through Catholic Word by calling 1 800 932 3826 or cathsales@tds.net.  You may also purchase it online via pay pal. See link on the upper right hand side of this page. It should also be available in most Catholic bookstores.  For more info on what's in the book read the link above.  I think you will find it helpful! 

 

June 25, 2009

 

Before 30,000 At His Wednesday General Audience, Pope Benedict Explains Why This Year Is The Year Of The Priest  Before a large crowd in St Peter's Sqaure, Pope Benedict explains why he instituting this The Year of the Priest. The Holy Father goes into some fascinating detail. I hope and pray that the faithful pray especially hard for all our priests. In addition to many holy priests among us, we certainly have some exciting young talent on the way and they need our prayers as well.

 

Click Here For Comments About Pope Benedict's Reflection At His Wednesday General Audience

 

Following The Lead Of The Successor Of Saint Peter, Says Mexican Cardinal Rivera Is The Key To Bridging Divisions In The Church  My friends the Holy Father is the leader of the believing world whether they want to believe it or not. You simply can't tell Jesus he was wrong in giving the keys to Peter. Cardinal Rivera, in love and charity, tries to spell this out. Though his main audience is Catholic, it could be written for everyone. God is Love (Deus Caritas Est) is the title of Pope Benedict's first encyclical. With love comes direction and guidance and that is why Jesus gave us the Holy Father, so he can be our earthly spiritual shepherd ever guiding us on the full circle path back to Jesus and His heavenly kingdom.

 

Click Here For Comments About Cardinal Rivera

  

Some In The Literary World Are Abuzz Over Journalist Robert Wright's Book That Asserts God Is Moody, Jesus Wan't The Good Guy We Thought He Was & Muhammad Was A Statesman & Cultural Bridge Builder The late Michael Dubruiel once told me about something he witnessed at a book convention he once attended.  Christopher Hitchens spoke and and spent a good deal of his time mocking any and every believer. Mike told me that as the talk went on more and more of the NYC publishing glitterarti winked, nodded and all but high fived Hitchens. This link further brings their sad aspirations to the open. Mark my words the day will soon come (within our lifetimes) that some will openly rebel against God. They won's masquerade, they will admit that God exists and then in some demonic public display try to engage in some sort of public demonstration against God Himself. Prayers are most certainly needed for these folks.

 

Click Here For Comments About Robert Wright's New Book

 

Episcopal Female Priestess Says God Rejoices In Abortion (It Is Because Of Stories Like This One That We Have Stories Like The Next One)

 

Large Group Of Episcopal Leaders Hold First Ever Anglican American Meeting, Say Their Traditional Oriented Church Will Have Over 100,000 Members For years we have heard of these whacky people who are sounding more and more devious. The traditional minded Episcopalian long ago had enough of this and that is why we have the second link. David Bennett has told me stories that seem almost impossible to belive from his days in an Episcopal seminary. They become very believable for the doubting Thomases out there after reading stories like the first link. Here's hoping the traditional-minded Anglicans come full circle and return from where they left. The Tiber is certainly pretty narrow in parts and the swim across can be very short in duration.

 

Click Here For Comments About Episcopalian Priestess Extolling Abortions & Anglican American Group Forming

  

Another Conservative Admits To A Marital Infidelity, South Carolina Governor Mark Sanford Admits To An Affair With An Argentine Woman. He Tried To Explain His Bizarre Disappearance In A Rivoting Press Conference  It was certainly one of the most unique press conferences I have ever seen, part Evangelical Prayer Group Confessional, part Oprah Self Actualization catharsis session. Mark Shea's line is appropriate here. "Sin makes you stupid." This is not to kick a man when he is down, but the Governor had such a bright future. He throw it all away on a whim, an urge and a sorry attempt to reignite his aging hormones. I guess these folks always think that these fantasies won't hurt anyone because of the excitement and the rush they give the participants. Well, we saw the reality of that yesterday with a crying Governor, a hurt family and a promising career snuffed out before our eyes. In addition some liberal groups and same sex marriage advocates seem to be rejoicing in all of this implying that all conservatives are hypocrites. Some of these groups are the first one to question the institution of marriage and yet they make fun of those who break the bonds of marriage. In addition to my prayers for the Sanford Family & all involved in this story, I hope and pray that everyone who pooh poohs the harmful nature of affairs could have watched yesterday's news conference to see the true reality and heartbreaking nature of sin.

 

Click Here For Comments About Governor Sanford

 

Wichita Man Miraculously Healed Of Severe Head Wound, Vatican Sending Investigator. Family Says They & Many Others Prayed Unceasingly For Father Emil Kapaun To Intercede To Christ. Father Kapaun Was A Korean War Chaplain Who Died In A Chinese Prison Camp Tending To American & Allied Captives My friends the Great Cloud of witnesses described in Hebrews chapter 12 are always ready to take our prayers to Christ. Don't let anyone tell you differently. Thankfully because of these faithful people, this young man will be able to speak of God's Mercy and the power of his saints or in this case future saints (Father Emil Kapuan.)

 

Click Here For Comments About Wichita Miracle

 

 

June 24, 2009

 

Pope Benedict To Meet President Obama On July 10. The Holy Father Usually Meets With World Leaders In The Morning But Will Meet The American President In The Late Afternoon To Accomodate President Obama's Schedule  Well no one can say that the Holy Father didn't try to mend fences with those on the political left. I would hope that our friends on the Catholic left appreciate the efforts of those in the Holy See to accomodate President Obama's schedule. I hope and pray that the Holy Father, in the brief time of the meeting, is able to help President Obama understand why the Church believes as she does with some of the issues that seperate the Holy Father and President Obama.

 

Click Here For Comments About Pope Benedict's Upcoming Meeting With President Obama

    

US Bishops Back Bishop D'Arcy In His Battle With Father Jenkins Of Notre Dame

  

Archbishop Burke On How To Prevent Future Notre Dame Controversies His Excellency is trying to head off the next blow up but sadly the powers that be in many of these universities are so full of themselves they don't appear to be listening. In the first link the US  Bishops strongly support Bishop D'Arcy' stance.

 

Click Here For Comments About US Bishops Back Bishop D'Arcy & Archbishop Burke Has His Own Take On How This Problem Can Be Avoided In The Future

  

Bishop Fellay Of The SSPX Speaks To Canada's Salt & Light About Recent Developments I certainly hope for some measure of reconciliation. I do find it odd that some Catholics are more apt to sing the praises of ecumemicalism with other churches rather than trying to heal the rifts of our own. Yes, there are elements of this movement who want no reconciliation. However, I would suggest we try to work things out with the many who do want to move toward unity.

 

Click Here For Comments About Bishop Fellay's Remarks

   

Iran Crisis Shows Islam At A Crossroads. The Iranian Government Said Elections Were Divinely Carrried Out. Yet, It Admitted There Were Many Flaws. The Supreme Leader Khameini Personally Appointed By The Late Ayatolloh Khomeini Has Been Heckled During Demonstrations & From The Rooftops In The Tehran Night

 

Latest On The Iran Crisis Via Persia Twitter, Includes Reports Of The Unthinkable Some Weeks Ago, Rooftop Hecklers Of The Supreme Leader Khameini  My friends the unthinkable is happening in Iran, the theocratic hold of radical Islam is being challenged. What started out as a rebellion against a fraudulent election is now turning toward a rebellion against the entire make up of the post 1979 Revolutionary Society. Now I am not suggesting that those in the streets will be successful. However, it has taught those who were not arrested that the very tenets of the 1979 Revolution are being thrown into doubt. I am sure the majority Sunni Muslims are shedding no tears for the Supreme Leader. However, radicals whether they be in the caves of Pakistan or the air conditioned palaces of Riyadh must be extremely nervous.

 

Click Here For Comments About Islam At The Crossroads & The Latest From Persian Twitter

 

Father Timothy Vakoc Dies After Sustaining Serious Injuries In Iraq Five Years Ago, Was Able To Give Niece First Communion Shortly Before His Death In A Convalescent Home A brave priest has been called home. For five years Father Vakoc suffered from his injuries and yet he tried his best to do what little he could in completing his priestly duties. If every priest were this brave, the world would be transformed.

 

Click Here For Comments About Father Timothy Vakoc

 

 

June 23, 2009

 

Papal Spokeman Father Lombardi Says Pope Benedict Will Make The Final Decision On The Beatification Efforts For Pope Pius XII At The Appropriate Time  The last thing anyone can do is interfere with the will of the Holy Spirit. Talk about a catastrophe. This is in effect what the Holy Father is saying. At the appropriate time the right decision will be made.

 

Click Here For Comments About Father Lombardi's Statement

   

Did Then Cardinal Ratzinger Visit Medjugorge At The Request If Pope John Paul II? Did Pope John Paul II Pattern Ideas After Messages From Medjugorge?  Well there is no shortage of debate and opinions regarding Medugorje. However, this link brings up an interesting side note regarding the apparitions. Someday we will know if then Cardinal Ratzinger's visit actually happened, but in the meantime I thought you want to read this account.

 

Click Here For Comments About Did Then Cardinal Ratzinger Visit Medjugorge & Did This Result In Pope John Paul II Pattern Ideas After Messages

   

Deacon Keith Fournier On Saint Thomas More (His Feast Day Was Yesterday.) Are We Living In Similar Times Where Far Too Many People Would Rather Embrace The Worldly Powers That Be Rather Than The Holy Powers That Be?  The idea of to go along to get along and from that to be liked and included is a powerful pull. It held a powerful sway during 16th century England and it is today for most of the western world. Thanks be to God for powerful figures like Saint Thomas More, who showed us how to be courageous. As our faithful reader Ed has reminded us; the Holy Father shortly after his election told us "Pray for me that I will have the courage not to flee when the wolves come."

 

Click Here For Comments About Deacon Keith Fournier's Words About St Thomas More

 

Francis Beckwith On What's Wrong With The World, Says Conservative View Must Espouse The "Buckley-Reagan" Happy Warrior View Of The World Not The "Hannity-Coulter" Negative View  These types of articles and posts are helpful in understanding how the other side often sees us. Thanks to American Catholic for this one.  The mystique of Ronald Reagan was that he somehow spoke sternly with a smile on his face. He didn't try to be clever and show up people. He boldly told it as it was without sticking a dagger into the opposition. I think most of us live our lives doing the same.

 

Click Here For Comments About Francis Beckwith's Post

 

Father Longenecker, On How A Chance Trip To Paris Following High School (To Hand Out Bibles During His Fundamentalist Days) Turned Into A Walk Through To The Sacre Coeur Basilica, Which  Helped Change His Attitude Of The Catholic Church  The Holy Spirit and our Guardian Angel is always ready for us to do the right thing. All we have to do is listen. Sadly, we often tune them out and try to do it our way. Thankfully, Father Longenecker listened for a brief moment in his early adult life, and it changed his life, one stage at a time.

 

Click Here For Comments About Father Longenecker's Chance Trip To Paris Following His School Days Helped In His Conversion

  

On Father's Day At The US Open Drunken Fans Heckle Golfers With Lewd Comments & Racial Taunts, Including Tiger Woods & Phil Mickelson (Whose Wife Is Battling Breast Cancer. US Golf Association Looking Into Alcohol Policies (Is The US Becoming Like Britain?)  A sad spectacle at a legendary golf course designed by one of the early greats of the game. Now looking more deeply into this sad spectacle. Have you ever noticed that these drunken outbursts which occur in places like this in the US and Britain are the very same places that are suppose to be liberal islands of diversity and acceptance. Yet, at Bethpage (outside NYC) and much of Britain on a Friday and Saturday night one can see drunken people (who often call themselves liberals) heckling the very people they claim to want to help. These aren't young people or unemployed hooligans, these are often well paid men, who for whatever reason, act like they are participating in casting call for Animal House.

 

Click Here For Comments About Out Of Control Drunkeness By Well Paid Adults

 

 

June 22, 2009

 

Pope Benedict Visits The Tomb Of Saint Padre Pio, Says Priests Should Be Simple Like Padre Pio, Not Part Of An Activist Movement Or Helping In The Secularization Of The World, Also Tells The Faithful To Love Mary As Padre Pio Did The Holy Father as usual has said a great deal in a few words. In this the Year of the Priest, he reminds the ordained that they have a sacred responsibility, and are not called to be social or political activists.  Those words will certainly be welcomed by many in the priesthood, especially the more recently ordained. Pope Benedict also reminds the faithful that in addition to many spiritual gifts and crosses, Padro Pio had a great devotion to the Blessed Mother.

 

Click Here For Comments About Pope Benedict's Reflections On Saint Padre Pio

  

Text Of L'Osservatore Editor (Vatican Newspaper) Gian Vian's Interview Given To National Review Online  

 

Deal Hudson Says Interview Digs Deeper Hole For L'Osservatore's Editor Thanks to Tito Edwards at Cvstos Fidei for the second link. This controversy doesn't seem to be diminishing. Many elements of the Church, including a good deal of US Bishops are somewhat angered by this editor's personal opinions and ideas which are not part of the Church's ideas but are often taken as such. Though the editor tries to make that clear, for many it is not clear enough.

 

Click Here For Comments About L'Osservatore's Editor

  

Christopher West Addresses His Critics Hopefully, as I have said before, all parties involved, will sit down and resolve this matter. Everyone agrees that all involved are faithful sons and duahgters of the Church, so why string this out? It only assists those who don't like us.

 

Click Here For Comments About Christopher West Addresses His Critics

 

Catholic College Association Seems To Thumb Their Nose At US Bishops Statement Pride always comes before the fall. Sadly too many of these university presidents desire to be like and adulated by their secular colleagues, that they don't realize their own institution's Catholic identity is suffering. It all goes back to the Land of Lakes Agreement. Again, pride comes before the fall.

 

Click Here For Comments About Catholic College Association

 

Drag Queen Singer (Supposedly From Columbus)& Make Believe Priest Is Touted As A Real Catholic Priest In The Music Press Where does one begin with an article such as this one. Yet, you would think that maybe, just maybe that those in the mainstream media who would write about this man might do a little background check before he is portrayed as a Catholic priest.  Catholic Online tries to set the record straight.

 

Click Here For Comments About Drag Queen Singer Touted As Real Singer In Music Press

  

Atheists In An Uproar Over Comedian Steve Harvey's Blunt Assessment Of Atheism To Joy Behar Who Was Guest Hosting For Larry King  By chance sitting home on a Friday night with my wife a couple of weeks ago, we saw this in passing while channel surfing. We should all take a page out of Steve Harvey's book. He bluntly told the atheists, along with Joy Behar, what he thought of their agenda.

 

Click Here For Comments About Atheists Upset Over Comedian Steve Harvey

 

 

June 21, 2009

 

On The Eve Of Pope Benedict's Visit To Saint Padre Pio's Tomb, Capuchin Rector Says It Will Bring A Greater Closeness To Christ  To know Jesus is to pick up one's cross and follow in his footsteps. Saint Padre Pio certainly did that. He was often chided by those who must have been jealous of his stigmata. This lesson of jealousy should be taken to heart by those in the Church who still roll their eyes at the name of Padre Pio.

 

Click Here For Comments About Pope Benedict To Visit Saint Padre Pio's Tomb Today

 

Pope Benedict Welcomes Syriac Catholic Patriarch To Vatican City Always nice to see the Holy Father meet with these religious leaders who are often little known in the West. It is quite amazing that some of these groups were caught up in Early Church heresies and then returned to the fold. We certainly have an amazing Church.

 

Click Here For Comments About Pope Benedict Welcomes Syriac Catholic Patriarch

  

Father Zuhlsdorf Analyzes Community Of Disciples, America The Magazine's Editorial The more these rebellious folks speak and write the more I am reminded of the rebellious teenager who does it his or her own way only to look very foolish years later and sheepishly admit how immature they were. So sad that in this case it is the self described Church elite, so elite that no one else is listening to them except members of the mainstream media who don't believe in faith based values in the first place.

 

Click Here For Comments About Father Zuhlsdorf Analyzes America Magazine Article

  

What Happened To Cardinal Schonborn? The One Time Ally Of Pope Benedict Seems To Have Strayed Off The Reservation & Had To Be (Along With Other Austrian Bishops) Summoned To Rome For A Friendly Reminder  This is quite sad. The one time faithful supporter of Pope Benedict, in the German Speaking world, has for whatever reason gone off the reservation. Thanks to Tito Edwards at Cvstos Fidei for this link.

 

Click Here For Comments About What Happened To Cardinal Schonborn

 

Iran At A Turning Point As Protesters To The Fraudulent Election Are Savagely Beaten & Murdered In The Street God Bless the courageous people of Iran who are literally seeing the gates of hell opened up upon them. The sadistic regime whose birth 30 years ago signalled much distress for the world has now turned on their own. I hope and pray that western rulers learn what these fearless protestors have learned; there can be no peaceful co existence with this kind of radical regime who kills their own. Why on earth would some think they could be trusted with nuclear technology? I do believe, as I said the other day, that in the caves of Pakistan, the enclaves of Hezbollah in Beirut  and the air conditioned palaces of Riyadh, the powers that be are very nervous. What if this begins to happen in Riyadh, Beirut and other locations? What was hinted at Guadalupe and Fatima may come true sooner than we can imagine. The Blessed Mother may bring these folks back to the Church in which their ancient relatives once worshipped.

 

Click Here For Comments About Events In Iran

 

From Catholic Online Jennifer Hartline On How Fathers' Day Reveals The Heart Of God  Always nice to include Jennifer's articles, the only Hartline I know who with whom I am not related. As I have said before, somewhere in her husband and my family's past, I am sure our ancient relatives met during some pilgrimage or some crusade. Anyway, Jennifer offers us some serious food for thought on Father's Day.

 

Click Here For Comments About Jennifer Hartline's Father Day Article

 

 

June 20, 2009

 

Pope Benedict (For The Year Of The Priest) Sends Letter To The Priest Of The World, Reminds Them Of The Words Of Saint John Vianney

 

Father Zuhlsdorf Writes About Being Greeted By A Twenty Something Young Woman Wishing Him A Happy Year Of The Priest

 

Father Zuhlsdorf Analyzes This Letter To The Priests These three links are helpful in understanding the Holy Father's letter and the implications of it. He is appealing to priests worldwide. No matter how they have been harmed by a militant secular society, or by a few of their brother priests who have given the priesthood a tarnished image because of evil acts, there job is now more important than ever. Father Z analyzes the Holy Father's words and also relates a uplifting experience about being greeted by a young woman wishing him well in this the Year of the Priest.

 

Click Here For Comments About The Year Of The Priest

 

Via Cardinal George, US Bishops Issue A Letter On Immigration Immigration is certainly a hot button topic and we will be hearing more from this in the months and years to come. There is division even among some of the US bishops and certainly the laity, so depending upon the attention this gets, it will be very interesting to see how this plays out.

 

Click Here For Comments About The US Bishops Debate Immigration

  

At US Bishop Meeting More Debate Over Liturgy & Proper Translation  It seems each year this type of debate happens between those who want a more liberal translation and the more orthodox oriented bishops. Since those in the liberal camp are getting fewer and fewer, this debate could really get interesting in the years to come. Here is the latest.

 

Click Here For Comments About US Bishops Debate Liturgical Translation

 

In Uganda Eucharistic Adoration Not Only Increases Already Large Vocations Numbers, But Brings More Involvement From The Laity To Their Parish  It is happening all over he world, Eucharistic Adoration is helping all involved, clergy and laity. Yet, it still faces a backlash from those in the clergy who refuse to allow it.  With all the good that it is doing, why do some still resist? Just plain mind boggling. Let's keep all involved in our prayers.

 

Click Here For Comments About Uganda Benefitting From Eucharistic Adoration

 

Jonathan Bennett On The Plot Within A Plot. The Reality Show, The Biggest Loser Featured A Group, Who While Losing Weight, Made An Effort To Better Know Their Catholic Faith The Lord does work in Mysterious Ways, even on reality shows. Jonathan Bennett reminds us of an episode he saw on America's Biggest Loser in which some contestants (while bettering their physical health) realize that they also needed to improve their spiritual health.

 

Click Here For Comments About Jonathan Bennett's Post On The Biggest Loser

 

 

June 19, 2009

 

Pope Benedict Welcomes Religious Summit Members Gathered At L'Aquila (The Site Of A Recent Devestating Earthquake.) The Holy Father Says Despite Modern Trends Religion Does Belong In The Public Square  It is interesting to note that Pope Benedict's theme of religion in the public square continues to be preached. It seems to be resonating because of conferences like this one. For years too many religious leaders were apologizing for religion.  Sadly we are reaping the results of that philosophy, but because of leaders like Pope Benedict the battle has been joined.

 

Click Here For Comments About Pope Benedict's Remarks

 

Holy See Warns Lefebvrists (SSPX) On Upcoming Ordinations

 

Bishop Fellay Of The Lefebvrists (SSPX) Talks With Zenit About Upcoming Motu Proprio Concerning Their Status  Well this appears to be heading into a direction where the more moderate elements of the SSPX will be welcomed while the more radicalized elements of the movement will not be so amenable. That being said this could all go out the window if these ordinations are allowed to continue by the SSPX powers that be.  Let us continue to pray that a spirit of reconciliation is seen in all areas of the Church.

 

Click Here For Comments About The Latest On The Lefebvrists (SSPX) Situation

 

At Inside Catholic The Sad Story Of Human Trafficking  Evil knows no bounds and when human beings are shipped around like produce or merchandise we see how evil some people can become. The Vatican has been on top of this issue for some time and so has many western countries and yet the practice still continues because quite frankly in some cultures they see nothing wrong with this. Prayers are most certainly needed.

 

Click Here For Comments About Human Trafficking

 

Like All Newspapers & Periodicals Religious Oriented Ones, Including Catholic Newspapers & Periodicals, Are Suffering  Ever since the invention of the internet, newspapers and periodicals have been on the downward slide. The recent economic jolt has only hastened their deteriorating conditon. It is so bad that in major cities like Detroit, there is no home delivery on certain days. Other cities may be entirely without any daily paper. The religious world has been touched by this problem as well, including the Catholic world.

 

Click Here For Comments About Suffering Newspapers Periodicals

 

What Celestial Event Did Pope Pius See In The Sky The Day He Made The Assumption Of Mary Official Church Dogma?  Pope Pius XII saw this sign in 1950 the day he proclaimed the Assumption as Church Dogma. He also saw it on Nov 1 when it was made official. His Holiness was in excellent health and not prone to exaggerate such events. He even inquired of astronomers about this event. Point of clarification; the Feast of the Assumption was celebrated when the Faith was still illegal under the Roman Empire. However, it wasn't officially made dogma until 1950. 

 

Click Here For Comments About Pope Pius XII & Sun Miracle

   

Father Longenecker On Mark Shea's Recently Released Marian Trilogy Books  I haven't had the chance to read Mark's trilogy. I am sure I will soon get the chance.  Mark has to occassionaly plead for help from his readers to buy his books so that he can continue his Apostolate. Mark has a way with words and if this were a more perfect world he could live far easier than  he does.  Not that any of us are rich or looking for a life of ease, but one sees the sort of palatial estates some of these trendy spiritual writers live in, and it becomes evident by the body of his work that Mark (and many others) deserve better.

 

Click Here For Comments About Father Longenecker's Review Of Mark Shea's Marian Trilogy

 

 

June 18, 2009

 

Pope Benedict Reflects On Saints Cyril & Methodius, Patron Saints Of Slavic Peoples  The Slavic peoples of Europe (as well as the Slavic world diaspora) have these two saints to thank for not only bringing them their faith but also their language. The Holy Father reflects on them.

 

Click Here For Comments About Pope Benedict's Reflections

 

National Catholic Reporter Attacks Pope Benedict's Year Of The Priest (Is This The National Catholic Reporter Or A Jack Chick Tract?)  This is what happens when the Catholic Left becomes so angry at the Church it claims to love that they can't recall the basic teachings of the Church, namely the priesthood and the Eucharist were instituted on the same night, Holy Thursday. One can't help but read this article and say my God look at what continuous rebellion does to people. It makes fools of them. These folks need our prayers and lots of them.

 

Click Here For Comments About National Catholic Reporter's Descent Into Madness

 

Sandro Magister On The Year Of The Priests & Pope Benedict's Efforts To Solve The Legion Of Christ Situation The situation of the Legion is coming to a head. The Holy Father appears to be doing lots of background work so whatever he decides there will be plenty of documentation.

 

Click Here For Comments About Sandro Magister's Article

 

In Mexico, A Priest & Two Seminarians Killed On Their Way To A Vocations Meeting, Drug Cartel Violence Suspected For years various Mexican governments looked the other way at the drug cartels, as long as tourists and prominent Mexicans weren't killed. President Calderone has taken the tough step of doing something about it. By the way, President Calderon is a faithful Mexican Catholic who doesn't shy away concerning the importance of his faith. He and Mexico needs our prayers.

 

Click Here For Comments About Mexican Priest & Two Seminarians Killed In Mexico

  

The Faithful In Iran Overwhelmingly Supportive Of Protests Against The Radical Ahmadinejad Regime, Some Reports Of Whole Christian Areas Voting For Mosavi

 

Click Here For Link To Persian Twitter Where One Can Follow The Events All Throughout Iran (In English)  It seems the faithful, probably about 2% of the population though at one time it was closer to 10%(probably more than anyone) want to see the forces of freedom prevail. I must admit I finally found a use for twitter. I was never a fan of it until now. It seems the old guard wasn't prepared for this kind of public support for reform. Yesterday, all of Iran was watching a World Cup qualifier and couldn't help but notice half of the team clad in green armbands. If Iran would ever teeter, it would send skock waves and perhaps signal the death knell for radical regimes like it. I have to believe the powers that be hiding out in caves in Pakistan or in air conditioned palaces in Riyadh are very nervous. The ironic thing is President Ahmadinejad may have won the race but by making him win 2-1 the regime unleased 30 years of seething anger from a populace longing to get out from the long leash of this repressive regime. Let us keep praying for those in Iran.

 

Click Here For Comments About Unrest In Iran

 

Two Legendary Pioneers Of Christian Rock Phil Keaggy & Randy Stonehill Reunite Newton told us for every action there is a reaction, and so it is in the world of music. The late 1960s psychedelic rock scene full of drugs and promuscuity had to have reaction. It came in the late 1960s and early 1970s in the form of Christian Rock or as it was known then "Jesus Rock." These two men were pioneers in the movement having been involved in the rock scene before making their mark in the Christian Rock scene.  We all have probably met folks (mainly guys) who were into serious drugs and out of control partying who came to Christianity through the Jesus Rock scence, some even made their way to the Catholic Church like John Michael Talbot.

 

Click Here For Comments About Phil Keaggy & Randy Stonehill

 

  

June 17, 2009

 

Austrian Bishops Summoned To The Holy See, Some Say Pope Benedict Will Take Them To Task For Recent Actions It sounds like the Holy Father has had about all of the nonsense he is going to take from some of the assembled Austrian prelates. Once Austria was a stalwart of orthodoxy and conservative values. However, for some time it seems too many Austrians have wanted to shed this Hapsburg-Sound of Music image. I studied there some 25 years ago and I could see it coming though it was far different that it is now. Another lesson that trying to be liked by the hip, popular culture only spells trouble for those interested in truth.

 

Click Here For Comments About Austrian Bishops Summoned To Vatican City

 

Bishop O'Donoghue Tells Oxford Students To Challenge False Teachings That The World Presents As Truth No nonsense and to the point. The good people of Oxford should be happy to have this bishop as their spiritual shepherd. One might think that Oxford would be about seriousness. However, coming off the news of drunken mayhem at the famed university, it sounds like they need all the help they can get.

 

Click Here For Comments About Bishop O'Donoghue's Remarks

  

More Evidence Comes To Light That Pope Pius XII Was Nearly Killed By A Nazi Hit Squad  Talk about shame. To think those who buy this grand lie not only defame an innocent man, but a man who personally saved thousands during Hitler's murderous rampage. I hope and pray they realize the error of their ways before it is too late

 

Click Here For Comments About New Evidence Found That Show Pope Pius XII Was In Nazi Crosshairs

  

Jonathan Bennett On The Future Of Anglo Catholicism  Jonathan and David Bennett are somewhat expert commentators on this subject. They along with Father Longenecker have a unique incite on the subject, so when they speak or write they have my attention.

 

Click Here For Comments About Jonathan Bennett's Post

 

At Inside Catholic, A Discussion On The Rising Number Of Those Calling Themselves Conservatives For all of those saying the conservative movement and ideology is entering an Ice Age, they need to read articles such as this one to prevent further embarrassment heaped upon themselves.  For fruther info please scroll down to yesterday's Catholic Report to read my thoughts on the subject.

 

Click Here For Comments About Conservative Numbers See Small Increase Not Decrease

 

Noted Catholic Psychologist Dr. Joseph Nicolosi On Same Sex Attraction & How It Can Be Overcome Dr Nicolosi is a noted psychologist who isn't just making up facts to benefit his religious beliefs, but a man with a lot of experience on the subject. If anyone has ever met or received an e-mail from an angry person blaming their parents for encouraging their same sex past attraction, you will want to read this article. This is a very complicated and difficult subject but just saying this is how one feels and this is how they should act is really kicking someone when they are down. Can you imagine if someone told an alcoholic, "Go ahead drink as much as you want, since that is how you feel." They would be called enabling and heartless.

 

Click Here For Comments About Dr Joseph Nicolosi's Research

 

At Catholic Online Jennifer Hartline's Beware Of The New Compassion  Always nice to plug another Hartline's article. For those of you who don't know Jennifer and I are not related.  As a matter of fact, both of us have never met another Hartline who wasn't a relative. As for the article itself, we seem to be in an age that unless you agree with all that is thrust upon society, you aren't being compassionate. So in other words compassionate means letting people do whatever they want.  They wouldn't let this happen on the practice field of your favorite sports team, or in the movie set of your favorite producer. Why on earth do we let this happen to society in general?

 

Click Here For Comments About Jennifer's Post

 

 

June 16, 2009

 

Pope Benedict Explains His Upcoming Encyclical  The long promised encyclical from the Holy Father is about to be released. It has been done for some time but it was held back and tweaked after the financial meltdown of last fall. In this article we see the general direction in which the encyclical will move.

 

Click Here For Comments About Pope Benedict Explains His Upcoming Encyclical

 

Eight Habits Of Highly Effective Bishops  This should be required reading for all prelates. However, we all know that those who would most benefit from reading it probably won't because they would have to change their views which were formed many years ago in a rebellious era. However, we can still pray.

 

Click Here For Comments About Eight Habits Of Highly Effective Bishops

 

Catholic News Service Faces Tough Questions From Some Observers  I guess when you have the old guard assembled this is bound to happen. You might recall the hits the Catholic News Service took when they had several questionable movie reviews that caused the ire of many lay people, priests and bishops. I do hope they can get it together before they face the same downward slide the National Catholic Reporter faced when they refused to see the error of their ways.

 

Click Here For Comments About Catholic News Service Faces Tough Questions

 

Evangelical Author Asserts Young People Leaving Evangelical Churches In Droves, Says Fluffy Approach The Reason  Perhaps what happened in the Catholic Church in the 1970s is happening to some Evangelical churches now, especially those who adhere to the fluffy mega church model. Again it is my hope and my prayer that the serious among them swim the Tiber.

 

Click Here For Comments About Evangelical Author's Assertion

 

Pat Boone Lets His Feelings Be Known Concerning The Attack Against Religion In The Public Square & Those Who Call Themselves Christian But Their Actions Are Far From It Some people mellow with age, but Pat Boone might be just the opposite. Maybe his youth was filled with not rocking the boat and now in his senior years, he is taking on the powers that be. He makes some good points in this article. Thanks to Catholic Report reader and author Frank Rega for this link. You might recall Frank wrote the book on Saint Frances & the Muslims. Frank speaks of the little mentioned major converion efforts St Frances geared toward the Muslim world.

 

Click Here For Comments About Pat Boone's Article

 

From The National Catholic Register, The Top 10 Movies About Priests  There are some classsics in here. I am sure it will not be lost on anybody that there are no movies made this decade in the list. It would seem Hollywood has a plethora of negative movies made about the Church in the last 10 years, but a scant few positive ones. Well here is the list and there are some great movies on it.

 

Click Here For Comments About Top 10 Priest Movies