From: Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23
The Tradition of the Elders
[1] Now when the Pharisees gathered together to Him (Jesus), with some of the scribes, who had come from Jerusalem, [2] they saw that some of His disciples ate with hands defiled, that is, unwashed. [3] (For the Pharisees, and all the Jews, do not eat unless they wash their hands, observing the tradition of the elders; [4] and when they come from the market place, they do not eat unless they purify themselves; and there are many other traditions which they observe, the washing of cups and pots and vessels of bronze.) [5] And the Pharisees and the scribes asked Him, "Why do Your disciples not live according to the tradition of the elders, but eat with hands defiled?" [6] And He said to them, "Well did Isaiah prophesy of you hypocrites, as it is written, `This people honors Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me; [7] in vain do they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the precepts of men.' [8] You leave the commandment of God, and hold fast the tradition of men.
What Defiles a Man
[14] And He (Jesus) called the people to meet Him, and said to them, "Hear Me, all of you, and understand: [15] there is nothing outside a man which by going into him can defile him; but the things that come out of a man are what defile him." [21] For from within, out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts, fornication, theft, murder, adultery, [22] coveting, wickedness, deceit, licentiousness, envy, slander, pride, foolishness. [23] All these evil things come from within, and they defile a man.
_____________________________
Commentary:
1-2. Hands were washed not for reasons of hygiene or good manners but because the custom had religious significance: it was a rite of purification. In Exodus 30:17ff the Law of God laid down how priests should wash before offering sacrifice. Jewish tradition had extended this to all Jews before every meal, in an effort to give meals a religious significance, which was reflected in the blessings which marked the start of meals. Ritual purification was a symbol of the moral purity a person should have when approaching God (Psalm 24:3ff; 51:4 and 9); but the Pharisees had focused on the mere external rite. Therefore Jesus restores the genuine meaning of these precepts of the Law, whose purpose is to teach the right way to render homage to God (cf. John 4:24).
3-5. We can see clearly from this text that very many of those to whom St. Mark's Gospel was first addressed were Christians who had been pagans and were unfamiliar with Jewish customs. The Evangelist explains these customs in some detail, to help them realize the significance of the events and teachings reported in the Gospel story.
Similarly, Sacred Scripture needs to be preached and taught in a way which puts it within reach of its hearers. This is why Vatican II teaches that "it is for the bishops suitable to instruct the faithful [...] by giving them translations of the sacred texts which are equipped with necessary and really adequate explanations. Thus the children of the Church can familiarize themselves safely and profitably with the Sacred Scriptures, and become steeped in their spirit" ("Dei Verbum", 25).
15. Some important codexes add here: "If any man has ears to hear, let him hear," which would form verse 16.
20-23. "In order to help us understand divine things, Scripture uses the _expression `heart' in its full meaning, as the summary and source, _expression and ultimate basis, of one's thoughts, words and actions" ([St] J. Escriva, "Christ Is Passing By", 164).
The goodness or malice, the moral quality, of our actions does not depend on their spontaneous, instinctive character. The Lord Himself tells us that sinful actions can come from the human heart.
We can understand how this can happen if we realize that, after original sin, man "was changed for the worse" in both body and soul and was, therefore, prone to evil (cf. Council of Trent, "De Peccato Originali"). Our Lord here restores morality in all its purity and intensity.
___________________________
Source: "The Navarre Bible: Text and Commentaries". Biblical text taken from the Revised Standard Version and New Vulgate. Commentaries made by members of the Faculty of Theology of the University of Navarre, Spain. Published by Four Courts Press, Kill Lane, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland. Reprinted with permission from Four Courts Press and Scepter Publishers, the U.S. publisher.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Principles and Practices - August 30
Something Must Go
Every great end, temporal or spiritual alike, is gained by cutting off affections which are disorderly in reference to that end and positively stand in its way. Now to deny oneself is simply to cut off affections, to go against likings and dislikes, in view of some end which the judgement pronounces better than those distracting gratifications. The student is called upon 'To scorn delights and live laborious days.' He will never know much, if he cannot cut down his amusements to necessary and reasonable limits. He that contends in the race, restrains himself in all things.
-Rickaby, S.J.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
Every great end, temporal or spiritual alike, is gained by cutting off affections which are disorderly in reference to that end and positively stand in its way. Now to deny oneself is simply to cut off affections, to go against likings and dislikes, in view of some end which the judgement pronounces better than those distracting gratifications. The student is called upon 'To scorn delights and live laborious days.' He will never know much, if he cannot cut down his amusements to necessary and reasonable limits. He that contends in the race, restrains himself in all things.
-Rickaby, S.J.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
Thoughts of St Augustine for August 30
This Church then which standeth in the holy Angels and Powers of God, will then at length become known to us as it is, when at the last we shall have been joined with it to possess together with it eternal blessedness.
_________________________
Click here for more information.
From Thoughts of St Augustine for Every Day
by Kathleen Mary Balfe (© 1926)
Nihil Obstat: Georgius D. Smith, S.T.D
Imprimatur: Edm. Can. Surmont
_________________________
Click here for more information.
From Thoughts of St Augustine for Every Day
by Kathleen Mary Balfe (© 1926)
Nihil Obstat: Georgius D. Smith, S.T.D
Imprimatur: Edm. Can. Surmont
Thoughts from St Alphonsus for Every Day-August 30
Meekness should be particularly observed towards the poor, who, by reason of their poverty, are often harshly treated by men. It should likewise be especially practised towards the sick, who are suffering under infirmities, and for the most part meet with little help from others.
_________________
From Thoughts from St Alphonsus for Every Day
Compiled by Rev. C. McNeiry, C.SS.R.
Imprimatur: Joseph Hull, C.SS.R., Prov. Angl. Sup.
Nihil Obstat: Innocentlus Apap, O.P., S.T.M., Censor Deptutatus.
Imprimatur: Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius Generalis.
Westmonasterii, Die 9a Junii, 1927.
First published 1927
_________________
From Thoughts from St Alphonsus for Every Day
Compiled by Rev. C. McNeiry, C.SS.R.
Imprimatur: Joseph Hull, C.SS.R., Prov. Angl. Sup.
Nihil Obstat: Innocentlus Apap, O.P., S.T.M., Censor Deptutatus.
Imprimatur: Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius Generalis.
Westmonasterii, Die 9a Junii, 1927.
First published 1927
Some thoughts on Abp. Sheehan's recent comments regarding Eucharistic discipline
From Dr. Edwards Peters, distinguished Canon lawyer:
While I offer no opinion on the recent comments made by Archbishop Michael Sheehan of Santa Fe to the National Catholic Reporter [the unCatholic Distorter] regarding his take on inter-episcopal relations (that's between arch/bishops), his assertions on the canon law of Eucharistic reception are something else. In my opinion, several of Abp. Sheehan's assertions thereon are flawed. Even so, I might have let them pass, except that Sheehan, besides being an archbishop, also has a doctorate in canon law (Lateran, 1971) and thus some might incline to his views based on those credentials. So, here goes.Read about it here
Friday, August 28, 2009
Principles and Practices - August 29
Make No Mistake
'Be sober and watch,' is St. Peter's warning, 'for your adversary, the devil, goeth about like a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour.'
Be sober, for a man who denies that is wanting in sobriety of judgement. Watch, for the man who denies it is not on the watch. The devil is your adversary, your sworn enemy; the man who will not even see his enemy falls an easy prey to him.
'Ab insidiis diaboli libera nos Domine.'
(From the snares of the devil, good Lord, deliver us)
-Bampton, S.J.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
'Be sober and watch,' is St. Peter's warning, 'for your adversary, the devil, goeth about like a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour.'
Be sober, for a man who denies that is wanting in sobriety of judgement. Watch, for the man who denies it is not on the watch. The devil is your adversary, your sworn enemy; the man who will not even see his enemy falls an easy prey to him.
'Ab insidiis diaboli libera nos Domine.'
(From the snares of the devil, good Lord, deliver us)
-Bampton, S.J.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
Thoughts of St Augustine for August 29
This one thing I know, that it is never well with me except in thee; and that not only without but within myself also; and that all abundance which is not my God, to me is only very poverty.
_________________________
Click here for more information.
From Thoughts of St Augustine for Every Day
by Kathleen Mary Balfe (© 1926)
Nihil Obstat: Georgius D. Smith, S.T.D
Imprimatur: Edm. Can. Surmont
_________________________
Click here for more information.
From Thoughts of St Augustine for Every Day
by Kathleen Mary Balfe (© 1926)
Nihil Obstat: Georgius D. Smith, S.T.D
Imprimatur: Edm. Can. Surmont
Thoughts from St Alphonsus for Every Day-August 29
No sinner has ever prayed to God with repentance without having his desires granted. What greater comfort can a sinner have after his fall than to know for certain that all he asks from God in the name of Jesus Christ will be given to him?
_________________
From Thoughts from St Alphonsus for Every Day
Compiled by Rev. C. McNeiry, C.SS.R.
Imprimatur: Joseph Hull, C.SS.R., Prov. Angl. Sup.
Nihil Obstat: Innocentlus Apap, O.P., S.T.M., Censor Deptutatus.
Imprimatur: Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius Generalis.
Westmonasterii, Die 9a Junii, 1927.
First published 1927
_________________
From Thoughts from St Alphonsus for Every Day
Compiled by Rev. C. McNeiry, C.SS.R.
Imprimatur: Joseph Hull, C.SS.R., Prov. Angl. Sup.
Nihil Obstat: Innocentlus Apap, O.P., S.T.M., Censor Deptutatus.
Imprimatur: Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius Generalis.
Westmonasterii, Die 9a Junii, 1927.
First published 1927
Thursday, August 27, 2009
News Updates, 8/28
Suicide at St Stanislaus - No Link, via email
Seems the insanity continues at St Stanislaus as I was recently informed of this latest unfortunate episode. The story goes that:
Scranton's Bishop Martino stepping down[ Beware! - From National unCatholic Distorter)
Bishop Joseph F. Martino will resign as head of the Diocese of Scranton as early as next week, according to sources within the diocese, it was reported today by several outlets in the Scranton area...
Seal of Confession Goes on Trial (Church and State Face Off in Court)
When Father Timothy Mockaitis heard inmate Conan Wayne Hale’s sacramental confession on April 22, 1996, he had no idea it was being recorded. He also didn't know that the event would spur an unprecedented legal case that attempted to demonstrate that a violation of the seal of the confessional was an infringement on the free exercise of religion guaranteed by the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution...
What is Sen. Ted Kennedy's "Catholic legacy"?May God grant peace to Sen. Edward Kennedy. I do hope and pray he reconciled with the Church before his death. I have no interest in judging his or anyone else's soul, nor do I have any interest in combing through what is known (or allegedly known) about his personal life...there is no need to speak ill of the dead, but there is also no reason to avoid speaking honestly about his record. And there are, clearly, some serious issues with Kennedy's record when seen in the light of authentic, official Catholic social doctrine.
[As Catholics we must pray for his soul and hope that, despite the notorious public scandal, he accepted God's grace and repented of his embracing of the slaughter of God's most innocent and vulnerable little ones!]
America Magazine goes after Patrick Madrid for his response to Sr. Maureen Fiedler's post on Kennedy
Well, I feel as if I've finally "arrived." True, over the years my name has been mentioned disparagingly a few times in the pages of America, but what appeared in its online edition today has reached a whole new level of invective (even by America's standards of invective). I responded yesterday to Sr. Maureen Fiedler's obit piece on Senator Ted Kennedy in NCR ("He Made Me Proud to Be Catholic"), and my comments obviously hit a raw nerve among that community of disciples over at America, as evidenced by my being roundly chastised by one of their writers today....
NJ bishops campaign against same-sex marriage
Push comes in anticipation of possible November vote
Catholic social programs feeling economic pinch
Bishops concerned about proposed cuts to health services
Fr. Sirico on Ted Kennedy the Catholic
Senator took 'the dubious advice' of Boston Jesuits
Vatican laments Ted Kennedy's support for abortion
L'Osservatore Romano praises senator's support for poor
[Unfortunately, his so-called "support" for the poor was merely a means to keep them enslaved to the welfare state.]
Priest: Ted Kennedy 'wanted to go to heaven'
Irish cleric was present for senator's last moments
[And millions of innocent babies wanted to be saved from a painful, agonizing slaughter that he help to promote - may God have mercy on his soul!]
Ten Episcopal nuns to join Catholic Church
Community, chaplain have studied new faith for 7 years
Bishops offer analysis of World War II
German and Polish Catholic leaders call for peace
Nuns can't build fast enough to house new members
Dominican Sisters of Mary welcome 17 more this week
[It's truly a sign of the Blessed Trinity's grace and generosity that fidelity to God and to His Church yields such a harvest!]
Atheists on the march in America
Darwin Day in planning stages, bumper stickers on sale
=========
Other Issues
=========
*** Official: Real unemployment rate at 16% ***
1,000 Banks to Fail In Next Two Years: Bank CEO
The US banking system will lose some 1,000 institutions over the next two years, said John Kanas, whose private equity firm bought BankUnited of Florida in May. “We’ve already lost 81 this year,” he told CNBC. “The numbers are climbing every day. Many of these institutions nobody’s ever heard of. They're smaller companies.”...
Hummel: The US Will Default On Its Debt
The flood of debt that the US is taking on in its efforts rescue to economy will combine with huge social insurance obligations--Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security--to create an unsustainable level of public indebtedness, economist Jeffrey Rogers Hummel argues in at length here. Faced with this mountain of debt, policy makers will have just two choices: repudiate the debt or engage in hyper inflation to monetize it, Hummel writes. And faced with that choice the Treasury will likely protect the currency and default on Treasuries...
Racketeering 101: Bailed Out Banks Threaten Systemic Collapse If Fed Discloses Information
And so the guns come out blazing. The Clearing House Association, another name for all the banks that were bailed out over the past year with the generous contributions from all of you, dear taxpayers, are now threatening with another instance of complete systemic collapse if Bloomberg's lawsuit is allowed to proceed unchallenged, let alone if any of the "Audit The Fed" measures are actually implemented.
[Note the banksters logic: "Don't reveal the fact that we're not a viable business, otherwise we'll go bankrupt - like any other regular business that's NOT viable!"]
Davidowitz: USA is "in the tank forever, on a death spiral"
Retail maven Howard Davidowitz paid another visit to Tech Ticker this week. And despite signs of improvement in consumer confidence and retail stocks rising, Davidowitz is steadfast in his belief the consumer is dead...
Laid-off workers eye the abyss
With 1.5 million set to lose jobless benefits, many don't know how they'll get by. Despite repeated extensions of the unemployment compensation program — up to a record 79 weeks in many states, compared to the standard 26 weeks in normal times — some 1.5 million people are expected to exhaust their benefits by year’s end....
Seems the insanity continues at St Stanislaus as I was recently informed of this latest unfortunate episode. The story goes that:
The on-site caretaker who was living in the old convent, committed suicide last night (Aug 26) after continuing to take harassment and abuse from Marek Bozek and his appointed "board of directors." The caretaker had been arrested for gun violations after Bozek complained about his firearms. The caretaker was later cleared...and then Bozek called DCFS to try and have caretaker's children taken away...the caretake was again cleared. Why did this abuse occur? Speculation it that it was due to his open, vocal opposition to the imposter "priest" and his heretical practices. It seems that Bosek wants the building for his sister, who, I am told, has had another child out of wedlock in Poland - and Bozek seemingly wants her come over and be a 'sister' in his new false religion???[Email slightly edited. Please pray for this repose of the soul of the caretaker, his family, and for the conversion of the heretic and renegade ex-priest Marek Bozek, as well as for all those who continue to follow him on his path to hell!] (HT to "W" for the update!)
Scranton's Bishop Martino stepping down[ Beware! - From National unCatholic Distorter)
Bishop Joseph F. Martino will resign as head of the Diocese of Scranton as early as next week, according to sources within the diocese, it was reported today by several outlets in the Scranton area...
Seal of Confession Goes on Trial (Church and State Face Off in Court)
When Father Timothy Mockaitis heard inmate Conan Wayne Hale’s sacramental confession on April 22, 1996, he had no idea it was being recorded. He also didn't know that the event would spur an unprecedented legal case that attempted to demonstrate that a violation of the seal of the confessional was an infringement on the free exercise of religion guaranteed by the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution...
What is Sen. Ted Kennedy's "Catholic legacy"?May God grant peace to Sen. Edward Kennedy. I do hope and pray he reconciled with the Church before his death. I have no interest in judging his or anyone else's soul, nor do I have any interest in combing through what is known (or allegedly known) about his personal life...there is no need to speak ill of the dead, but there is also no reason to avoid speaking honestly about his record. And there are, clearly, some serious issues with Kennedy's record when seen in the light of authentic, official Catholic social doctrine.
[As Catholics we must pray for his soul and hope that, despite the notorious public scandal, he accepted God's grace and repented of his embracing of the slaughter of God's most innocent and vulnerable little ones!]
America Magazine goes after Patrick Madrid for his response to Sr. Maureen Fiedler's post on Kennedy
Well, I feel as if I've finally "arrived." True, over the years my name has been mentioned disparagingly a few times in the pages of America, but what appeared in its online edition today has reached a whole new level of invective (even by America's standards of invective). I responded yesterday to Sr. Maureen Fiedler's obit piece on Senator Ted Kennedy in NCR ("He Made Me Proud to Be Catholic"), and my comments obviously hit a raw nerve among that community of disciples over at America, as evidenced by my being roundly chastised by one of their writers today....
NJ bishops campaign against same-sex marriage
Push comes in anticipation of possible November vote
Catholic social programs feeling economic pinch
Bishops concerned about proposed cuts to health services
Fr. Sirico on Ted Kennedy the Catholic
Senator took 'the dubious advice' of Boston Jesuits
Vatican laments Ted Kennedy's support for abortion
L'Osservatore Romano praises senator's support for poor
[Unfortunately, his so-called "support" for the poor was merely a means to keep them enslaved to the welfare state.]
Priest: Ted Kennedy 'wanted to go to heaven'
Irish cleric was present for senator's last moments
[And millions of innocent babies wanted to be saved from a painful, agonizing slaughter that he help to promote - may God have mercy on his soul!]
Ten Episcopal nuns to join Catholic Church
Community, chaplain have studied new faith for 7 years
Bishops offer analysis of World War II
German and Polish Catholic leaders call for peace
Nuns can't build fast enough to house new members
Dominican Sisters of Mary welcome 17 more this week
[It's truly a sign of the Blessed Trinity's grace and generosity that fidelity to God and to His Church yields such a harvest!]
Atheists on the march in America
Darwin Day in planning stages, bumper stickers on sale
=========
Other Issues
=========
*** Official: Real unemployment rate at 16% ***
1,000 Banks to Fail In Next Two Years: Bank CEO
The US banking system will lose some 1,000 institutions over the next two years, said John Kanas, whose private equity firm bought BankUnited of Florida in May. “We’ve already lost 81 this year,” he told CNBC. “The numbers are climbing every day. Many of these institutions nobody’s ever heard of. They're smaller companies.”...
Hummel: The US Will Default On Its Debt
The flood of debt that the US is taking on in its efforts rescue to economy will combine with huge social insurance obligations--Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security--to create an unsustainable level of public indebtedness, economist Jeffrey Rogers Hummel argues in at length here. Faced with this mountain of debt, policy makers will have just two choices: repudiate the debt or engage in hyper inflation to monetize it, Hummel writes. And faced with that choice the Treasury will likely protect the currency and default on Treasuries...
Racketeering 101: Bailed Out Banks Threaten Systemic Collapse If Fed Discloses Information
And so the guns come out blazing. The Clearing House Association, another name for all the banks that were bailed out over the past year with the generous contributions from all of you, dear taxpayers, are now threatening with another instance of complete systemic collapse if Bloomberg's lawsuit is allowed to proceed unchallenged, let alone if any of the "Audit The Fed" measures are actually implemented.
[Note the banksters logic: "Don't reveal the fact that we're not a viable business, otherwise we'll go bankrupt - like any other regular business that's NOT viable!"]
Davidowitz: USA is "in the tank forever, on a death spiral"
Retail maven Howard Davidowitz paid another visit to Tech Ticker this week. And despite signs of improvement in consumer confidence and retail stocks rising, Davidowitz is steadfast in his belief the consumer is dead...
Laid-off workers eye the abyss
With 1.5 million set to lose jobless benefits, many don't know how they'll get by. Despite repeated extensions of the unemployment compensation program — up to a record 79 weeks in many states, compared to the standard 26 weeks in normal times — some 1.5 million people are expected to exhaust their benefits by year’s end....
Gospel for August 28, Memorial: St Augustine, Bishop and Doctor
Friday, 21st Week in Ordinary Time
From: Matthew 25:1-13
The Parable of the Wise and Foolish Maidens
(Jesus said to His disciples,) [1] "Then the Kingdom of Heaven shall be compared to ten maidens who took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom. [2] Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. [3] For when the foolish took their lamps, they took no oil with them; [4] but the wise took flasks of oil with their lamps. [5] As the bridegroom was delayed, they all slumbered and slept. [6] But at midnight there was a cry, `Behold the bridegroom! Come out to meet him.' [7] Then all those maidens rose and trimmed their lamps. [8] And the foolish said to the wise, `Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.' [9] But the wise replied, `Perhaps there will not be enough for us and for you; go rather to the dealers and buy for yourselves.' [10] And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the marriage feast; and the door was shut. [11] Afterwards the other maidens came also, saying, `Lord, lord, open to us.' [12] But he replied, `Truly, I say to you, I do not know you.' [13] Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour."
_______________________
Commentary:
1-46. The whole of chapter 25 is a practical application of the teaching contained in chapter 24. With these parables of the wise and foolish virgins and of the talents, and His teaching on the Last Judgment, our Lord is again emphasizing the need for vigilance (cf. note on Matthew 24:42). In this sense, chapter 25 makes chapter 24 more intelligible.
1-13. The main lesson of this parable has to do with the need to be on the alert: in practice, this means having the light of faith, which is kept alive with the oil of charity. Jewish weddings were held in the house of the bride's father. The virgins are young unmarried girls, bridesmaids who are in the bride's house waiting for the bridegroom to arrive. The parable centers on the attitude one should adopt up to the time when the bridegroom comes. In other words, it is not enough to know that one is "inside" the Kingdom, the Church: one has to be on the watch and be preparing for Christ's coming by doing good works.
This vigilance should be continuous and unflagging, because the devil is forever after us, prowling around "like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour" (1 Peter 5:8). "Watch with the heart, watch with faith, watch with love, watch with charity, watch with good works [...]; make ready the lamps, make sure they do not go out [...], renew them with the inner oil of an upright conscience; then shall the Bridegroom enfold you in the embrace of His love and bring you into His banquet room, where your lamp can never be extinguished" (St. Augustine, "Sermon", 93).
___________________________
Source: "The Navarre Bible: Text and Commentaries". Biblical text taken from the Revised Standard Version and New Vulgate. Commentaries made by members of the Faculty of Theology of the University of Navarre, Spain. Published by Four Courts Press, Kill Lane, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland. Reprinted with permission from Four Courts Press and Scepter Publishers, the U.S. publisher.
From: Matthew 25:1-13
The Parable of the Wise and Foolish Maidens
(Jesus said to His disciples,) [1] "Then the Kingdom of Heaven shall be compared to ten maidens who took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom. [2] Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. [3] For when the foolish took their lamps, they took no oil with them; [4] but the wise took flasks of oil with their lamps. [5] As the bridegroom was delayed, they all slumbered and slept. [6] But at midnight there was a cry, `Behold the bridegroom! Come out to meet him.' [7] Then all those maidens rose and trimmed their lamps. [8] And the foolish said to the wise, `Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.' [9] But the wise replied, `Perhaps there will not be enough for us and for you; go rather to the dealers and buy for yourselves.' [10] And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the marriage feast; and the door was shut. [11] Afterwards the other maidens came also, saying, `Lord, lord, open to us.' [12] But he replied, `Truly, I say to you, I do not know you.' [13] Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour."
_______________________
Commentary:
1-46. The whole of chapter 25 is a practical application of the teaching contained in chapter 24. With these parables of the wise and foolish virgins and of the talents, and His teaching on the Last Judgment, our Lord is again emphasizing the need for vigilance (cf. note on Matthew 24:42). In this sense, chapter 25 makes chapter 24 more intelligible.
1-13. The main lesson of this parable has to do with the need to be on the alert: in practice, this means having the light of faith, which is kept alive with the oil of charity. Jewish weddings were held in the house of the bride's father. The virgins are young unmarried girls, bridesmaids who are in the bride's house waiting for the bridegroom to arrive. The parable centers on the attitude one should adopt up to the time when the bridegroom comes. In other words, it is not enough to know that one is "inside" the Kingdom, the Church: one has to be on the watch and be preparing for Christ's coming by doing good works.
This vigilance should be continuous and unflagging, because the devil is forever after us, prowling around "like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour" (1 Peter 5:8). "Watch with the heart, watch with faith, watch with love, watch with charity, watch with good works [...]; make ready the lamps, make sure they do not go out [...], renew them with the inner oil of an upright conscience; then shall the Bridegroom enfold you in the embrace of His love and bring you into His banquet room, where your lamp can never be extinguished" (St. Augustine, "Sermon", 93).
___________________________
Source: "The Navarre Bible: Text and Commentaries". Biblical text taken from the Revised Standard Version and New Vulgate. Commentaries made by members of the Faculty of Theology of the University of Navarre, Spain. Published by Four Courts Press, Kill Lane, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland. Reprinted with permission from Four Courts Press and Scepter Publishers, the U.S. publisher.
Principles and Practices - August 28
Mould Your Mind To Obedience
We should allow obedience to regulate not only our exterior actions but likewise our mind and our will. Hence do not be satisfied with performing the works it prescribes, but let your thoughts and desires be also moulded according to its direction. In fact, it is in this interior submission that the merit of spiritual obedience essentially consists.
-Quadrupani.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
We should allow obedience to regulate not only our exterior actions but likewise our mind and our will. Hence do not be satisfied with performing the works it prescribes, but let your thoughts and desires be also moulded according to its direction. In fact, it is in this interior submission that the merit of spiritual obedience essentially consists.
-Quadrupani.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
Thoughts of St Augustine for August 28
Without doubt, if man be of such age, as already to exercise his reason, he cannot believe, hope, love, unless he be willing, or arrive at the prize of the high calling of God, unless he have run with his will....The mercy alone of God is not sufficient, unless there be also the will of man.
_________________________
Click here for more information.
From Thoughts of St Augustine for Every Day
by Kathleen Mary Balfe (© 1926)
Nihil Obstat: Georgius D. Smith, S.T.D
Imprimatur: Edm. Can. Surmont Without doubt, if man be of such age, as already to exercise his reason, he cannot believe, hope, love, unless he be willing, or arrive at the prize of the high calling of God, unless he have run with his will....The mercy alone of God is not sufficient, unless there be also the will of man.
_________________________
Click here for more information.
From Thoughts of St Augustine for Every Day
by Kathleen Mary Balfe (© 1926)
Nihil Obstat: Georgius D. Smith, S.T.D
Imprimatur: Edm. Can. Surmont
_________________________
Click here for more information.
From Thoughts of St Augustine for Every Day
by Kathleen Mary Balfe (© 1926)
Nihil Obstat: Georgius D. Smith, S.T.D
Imprimatur: Edm. Can. Surmont Without doubt, if man be of such age, as already to exercise his reason, he cannot believe, hope, love, unless he be willing, or arrive at the prize of the high calling of God, unless he have run with his will....The mercy alone of God is not sufficient, unless there be also the will of man.
_________________________
Click here for more information.
From Thoughts of St Augustine for Every Day
by Kathleen Mary Balfe (© 1926)
Nihil Obstat: Georgius D. Smith, S.T.D
Imprimatur: Edm. Can. Surmont
Thoughts from St Alphonsus for Every Day-August 28
To obtain salvation we must follow the will of God in all things.
But some of you will ask: How shall we know what God wills us to do?
Let us thank without ceasing the goodness of Jesus Christ, who has taught us the secure means of ascertaining the will of God, by telling us that if we obey our confessor we obey himself.
_________________
From Thoughts from St Alphonsus for Every Day
Compiled by Rev. C. McNeiry, C.SS.R.
Imprimatur: Joseph Hull, C.SS.R., Prov. Angl. Sup.
Nihil Obstat: Innocentlus Apap, O.P., S.T.M., Censor Deptutatus.
Imprimatur: Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius Generalis.
Westmonasterii, Die 9a Junii, 1927.
First published 1927
But some of you will ask: How shall we know what God wills us to do?
Let us thank without ceasing the goodness of Jesus Christ, who has taught us the secure means of ascertaining the will of God, by telling us that if we obey our confessor we obey himself.
_________________
From Thoughts from St Alphonsus for Every Day
Compiled by Rev. C. McNeiry, C.SS.R.
Imprimatur: Joseph Hull, C.SS.R., Prov. Angl. Sup.
Nihil Obstat: Innocentlus Apap, O.P., S.T.M., Censor Deptutatus.
Imprimatur: Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius Generalis.
Westmonasterii, Die 9a Junii, 1927.
First published 1927
A Catholic Funeral for Ted Kennedy?
Dr Edward Peters writes:
Most of Teddy Kennedy's politics, and most of whatever parts of his personal life I knew through the media, angered and sometimes even disgusted me. But my opinions about Teddy's legacy are not at issue in assessing his right to a Catholic funeral under canon law. I trust that my writings on the proper understanding and correct application of 1983 CIC 1184 (the canon regulating the funeral rites to be accorded - - or not, as the case may be - - to Catholics) are reasonably well-known to readers of this blog. So let's move directly to the canonical question of Kennedy's funeral.Read about it here.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Gospel for August 27, Memorial: St Monica
From: Matthew 24:42-51
Vigilance. The Faithful Servant
(Jesus said to his disciples,) [42] "Watch therefore, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming. [43] But know this, that if the householder had known in what part of the night the thief was coming, he would have watched and would not have let his house be broken into. [44] Therefore you also must be ready; for the Son of man is coming at an hour you do not expect.
[45] "Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom his master has set over his household, to give them their food at the proper time? [46] Blessed is that servant whom his master when he comes will find so doing. [47] Truly, I say to you, he will set him over all his possessions. [48] But if that wicked servant says to himself, 'My master is delayed,' [49] and begins to beat his fellow servants, and eats and drinks with the drunken, [50] the master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he does not know, [51] and will punish him, and put him with the hypocrites; there men will weep and gnash their teeth."
___________________________
Commentary:
42. Jesus himself draws from this revelation about the future the practical moral that a Christian needs to be on the watch, living each day as if it were his last.
The important thing is not to be speculating about when these events will happen and what form they will take, but to live in such a way that they find us in the state of grace.
51. "And will punish him [or, cut him in pieces]": this can be understood as a metaphor for "will cast him away". "Weeping and gnashing of teeth": the pains of hell.
___________________________
Source: "The Navarre Bible: Text and Commentaries". Biblical text taken from the Revised Standard Version and New Vulgate. Commentaries made by members of the Faculty of Theology of the University of Navarre, Spain. Published by Four Courts Press, Kill Lane, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland. Reprinted with permission from Four Courts Press and Scepter Publishers, the U.S. publisher.
Vigilance. The Faithful Servant
(Jesus said to his disciples,) [42] "Watch therefore, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming. [43] But know this, that if the householder had known in what part of the night the thief was coming, he would have watched and would not have let his house be broken into. [44] Therefore you also must be ready; for the Son of man is coming at an hour you do not expect.
[45] "Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom his master has set over his household, to give them their food at the proper time? [46] Blessed is that servant whom his master when he comes will find so doing. [47] Truly, I say to you, he will set him over all his possessions. [48] But if that wicked servant says to himself, 'My master is delayed,' [49] and begins to beat his fellow servants, and eats and drinks with the drunken, [50] the master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he does not know, [51] and will punish him, and put him with the hypocrites; there men will weep and gnash their teeth."
___________________________
Commentary:
42. Jesus himself draws from this revelation about the future the practical moral that a Christian needs to be on the watch, living each day as if it were his last.
The important thing is not to be speculating about when these events will happen and what form they will take, but to live in such a way that they find us in the state of grace.
51. "And will punish him [or, cut him in pieces]": this can be understood as a metaphor for "will cast him away". "Weeping and gnashing of teeth": the pains of hell.
___________________________
Source: "The Navarre Bible: Text and Commentaries". Biblical text taken from the Revised Standard Version and New Vulgate. Commentaries made by members of the Faculty of Theology of the University of Navarre, Spain. Published by Four Courts Press, Kill Lane, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland. Reprinted with permission from Four Courts Press and Scepter Publishers, the U.S. publisher.
Miraculous Rose Novena to Saint Therese
This gem comes from one of my favorites, America Needs Fatima:
Go here. Read The Little Known Saint Therese.
Since 1948, people who prayed the miraculous rose novena to Saint Therese have received amazing graces, blessings and favors...
...and yes, even roses, real-life beautiful roses as a sign from Saint Therese that their prayer has been answered.
You too can receive these graces.
The Miraculous Rose Novena to Saint Therese. (FREE download.)
You have heard of the Little Way of Saint Thérèse, right?
Maybe you have even read The Story of a Soul or other works of this great saint.
But you've probably not read about Saint Thérèse's fiery side. What you would call her "Saint Joan of Arc" side. So you should really like this article.
Principles and Practices - August 27
No Selfish Moping
Are you weary of the fight already and willing to give in to the enemy? Never mind, come back, begin again, Jesus wants you. There are millions of pagans to be saved, a hundred thousand dying sinners every day to be rescued. For shame, to sit down and cry over your own self and troubles while so many others need your aid.
Ask your holy patron to help you. Don't lose heart. I think I can understand better than many what you suffer. I am not angry with you - why should I be when I know how sorely you are tempted and the rage of the devil against you? But I certainly shall be angry if you play the coward and admit that you are beaten.
-W. Doyle, S.J.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
Are you weary of the fight already and willing to give in to the enemy? Never mind, come back, begin again, Jesus wants you. There are millions of pagans to be saved, a hundred thousand dying sinners every day to be rescued. For shame, to sit down and cry over your own self and troubles while so many others need your aid.
Ask your holy patron to help you. Don't lose heart. I think I can understand better than many what you suffer. I am not angry with you - why should I be when I know how sorely you are tempted and the rage of the devil against you? But I certainly shall be angry if you play the coward and admit that you are beaten.
-W. Doyle, S.J.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
Thoughts of St Augustine for August 27
For neither would almighty God, as even heathens confess, "Ruler Supreme of things" being as he is supremely good, in any way suffer any evil to be in his works; were he not almighty and good even to this, out of any evil to work what is good.
_________________________
Click here for more information.
From Thoughts of St Augustine for Every Day
by Kathleen Mary Balfe (© 1926)
Nihil Obstat: Georgius D. Smith, S.T.D
Imprimatur: Edm. Can. Surmont
_________________________
Click here for more information.
From Thoughts of St Augustine for Every Day
by Kathleen Mary Balfe (© 1926)
Nihil Obstat: Georgius D. Smith, S.T.D
Imprimatur: Edm. Can. Surmont
Thoughts from St Alphonsus for Every Day-August 27
True charity consists in doing good to those who do us evil, and in thus gaining their good will.
_________________
From Thoughts from St Alphonsus for Every Day
Compiled by Rev. C. McNeiry, C.SS.R.
Imprimatur: Joseph Hull, C.SS.R., Prov. Angl. Sup.
Nihil Obstat: Innocentlus Apap, O.P., S.T.M., Censor Deptutatus.
Imprimatur: Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius Generalis.
Westmonasterii, Die 9a Junii, 1927.
First published 1927
_________________
From Thoughts from St Alphonsus for Every Day
Compiled by Rev. C. McNeiry, C.SS.R.
Imprimatur: Joseph Hull, C.SS.R., Prov. Angl. Sup.
Nihil Obstat: Innocentlus Apap, O.P., S.T.M., Censor Deptutatus.
Imprimatur: Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius Generalis.
Westmonasterii, Die 9a Junii, 1927.
First published 1927
News Updates, 8/26
Cardinal Mahony Calls Kennedy A Champion Of The Powerless
Cardinal Roger Mahony issued a statement today calling the late Sen. Edward M. Kennedy (D-Mass.) a champion of "the voiceless, the powerless and the most needy of our citizens."
[A champion of the powerless - as in furthering the slaughter of the innocent, "voiceless" and "powerless" unborn? Mahony is one sick slug!]
Adoption Ads Pulled From S/M Webpage
SF’s Human Services Agency Acts After CalCatholic Story
Vatican denies liturgical reforms being formalized
'So far there are no institutional proposals for amendment'
Vatican economist: Put ethics into business
Says capitalism without ethical grounding doesn't work
Christians targeted by hackers on Facebook
4chan group posting obscene and racists comments
Thomas Aquinas relies on classics, Catholic identity
California college attracting national attention
Bishop D'Arcy explains decision to boycott Obama
Says he doesn't see any evidence of abortion 'dialogue'
Catholic Church sees influx of foreign-born priests
Symbolism, ritual all important to this generation
Rise in priests 'not due to recession'
Highest number of Irish seminarians in a decade
Survivors of extreme situations credit 'third man'
Author explains phenomenon of ghostly companions
Wheelchair-bound woman healed after Lourdes visit
'I have been walking, doing everything normally'
=========
Other Issues
=========
Breaking News: Senator Edward “Ted” Kennedy Has Died (Deacon Keith Fournier)
He came to be known as a stalwart proponent of what is currently being called a “liberal” or even “progressive” social agenda. However his change of position on the fundamental human right, the right to life, like others now identified with those labels including Rev. Jesse Jackson, changed entirely. In fact, with Kennedy's change the entire content of the meaning of those political labels seems to have changed. Senator Kennedy began his political career as a strong defender of the rights of children in the womb. For example, in 1971, Senator Kennedy described his then strongly Pro-Life position in these words...
An honest obituary of “Sir” Ted Kennedy you’ll never see in print
Senator Ted Kennedy has lost his battle to live. As a Christian I hope God has mercy on him. He suffered from a ghastly cancerous brain tumor that has apparently taken his life. Obviously Kennedy will be canonized by acclamation in the media today and for days to come. The British Crown has already given him an honorary knighthood making him “Sir Edward” but genuine Americans know better.
[May God have mercy on this man who was an heretic and leading member of the culture of death]
Doctors ready to 'just say no' (Majority won't accept new patients under government plan)
My fellow physicians and I share one interesting thing in common with professionals in the federal government: We all take an oath relating to our jobs. A physician pledges to "apply, for the benefit of the sick, all measures [that] are required, avoiding those twin traps of overtreatment and therapeutic nihilism." We also pledge to "remember that [we] do not treat a fever chart, a cancerous growth, but a sick human being, whose illness may affect the person's family and economic stability."
Dem Headquarters Vandalized By SEIU Activist!!... Dems Blamed GOP
The Colorado Democratic Headquarters in Denver was vandalized and eleven windows at the headquarters on Santa Fe Drive were shattered in a vandalism spree.
Cardinal Roger Mahony issued a statement today calling the late Sen. Edward M. Kennedy (D-Mass.) a champion of "the voiceless, the powerless and the most needy of our citizens."
[A champion of the powerless - as in furthering the slaughter of the innocent, "voiceless" and "powerless" unborn? Mahony is one sick slug!]
Adoption Ads Pulled From S/M Webpage
SF’s Human Services Agency Acts After CalCatholic Story
Vatican denies liturgical reforms being formalized
'So far there are no institutional proposals for amendment'
Vatican economist: Put ethics into business
Says capitalism without ethical grounding doesn't work
Christians targeted by hackers on Facebook
4chan group posting obscene and racists comments
Thomas Aquinas relies on classics, Catholic identity
California college attracting national attention
Bishop D'Arcy explains decision to boycott Obama
Says he doesn't see any evidence of abortion 'dialogue'
Catholic Church sees influx of foreign-born priests
Symbolism, ritual all important to this generation
Rise in priests 'not due to recession'
Highest number of Irish seminarians in a decade
Survivors of extreme situations credit 'third man'
Author explains phenomenon of ghostly companions
Wheelchair-bound woman healed after Lourdes visit
'I have been walking, doing everything normally'
=========
Other Issues
=========
Breaking News: Senator Edward “Ted” Kennedy Has Died (Deacon Keith Fournier)
He came to be known as a stalwart proponent of what is currently being called a “liberal” or even “progressive” social agenda. However his change of position on the fundamental human right, the right to life, like others now identified with those labels including Rev. Jesse Jackson, changed entirely. In fact, with Kennedy's change the entire content of the meaning of those political labels seems to have changed. Senator Kennedy began his political career as a strong defender of the rights of children in the womb. For example, in 1971, Senator Kennedy described his then strongly Pro-Life position in these words...
An honest obituary of “Sir” Ted Kennedy you’ll never see in printSenator Ted Kennedy has lost his battle to live. As a Christian I hope God has mercy on him. He suffered from a ghastly cancerous brain tumor that has apparently taken his life. Obviously Kennedy will be canonized by acclamation in the media today and for days to come. The British Crown has already given him an honorary knighthood making him “Sir Edward” but genuine Americans know better.
[May God have mercy on this man who was an heretic and leading member of the culture of death]
Doctors ready to 'just say no' (Majority won't accept new patients under government plan)
My fellow physicians and I share one interesting thing in common with professionals in the federal government: We all take an oath relating to our jobs. A physician pledges to "apply, for the benefit of the sick, all measures [that] are required, avoiding those twin traps of overtreatment and therapeutic nihilism." We also pledge to "remember that [we] do not treat a fever chart, a cancerous growth, but a sick human being, whose illness may affect the person's family and economic stability."
Dem Headquarters Vandalized By SEIU Activist!!... Dems Blamed GOP
The Colorado Democratic Headquarters in Denver was vandalized and eleven windows at the headquarters on Santa Fe Drive were shattered in a vandalism spree.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Gospel for Wednesday, 21st Week in Ordinary Time
From: Matthew 23:27-32
Jesus Indicts the Scribes and Pharisees (Continuation)
(Jesus said to the scribes and Pharisees,) [27] "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for you are like white-washed tombs, which outwardly appear beautiful, but within they are full of dead men's bones and all uncleanness. [28] So you also outwardly appear righteous to men, but within you are full of hypocrisy and iniquity.
[29] "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for you build the tombs of the prophets and adorn the monuments of the righteous, [30] saying, `If we had lived in the days of our fathers, we would not have taken part with them in shedding the blood of the prophets.' [31] Thus you witness against yourselves, that you are sons of those who murdered the prophets. [32] Fill up, then, the measure of your fathers."
______________
Commentary:
27-28. The Jews used to whitewash tombs annually, shortly before the feast of the Passover. The whitewash made the tombs more visible and helped to avoid people brushing against them, which would have meant incurring legal uncleanness for seven days (Numbers 19:16; Luke 11:44).
In the sunlight, these tombs sparkled radiantly white, but inside they held corruption.
29-32. Our Lord shows them that they are cut off from the same cloth as their ancestors--not because they erect mausoleums in honor of prophets and just men but because they are guilty of the same sin as those who killed the prophets. Hence their hypocrisy, which makes them even worse than their fathers. With pained irony Jesus tells them that they are compounding the sins of their ancestors.
Clearly this is referring to His passion and death: if the ancients killed the prophets, by causing Him to suffer and die our Lord's contemporaries will still be more cruel.
___________________________
Source: "The Navarre Bible: Text and Commentaries". Biblical text taken from the Revised Standard Version and New Vulgate. Commentaries made by members of the Faculty of Theology of the University of Navarre, Spain. Published by Four Courts Press, Kill Lane, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland. Reprinted with permission from Four Courts Press and Scepter Publishers, the U.S. publisher.
Jesus Indicts the Scribes and Pharisees (Continuation)
(Jesus said to the scribes and Pharisees,) [27] "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for you are like white-washed tombs, which outwardly appear beautiful, but within they are full of dead men's bones and all uncleanness. [28] So you also outwardly appear righteous to men, but within you are full of hypocrisy and iniquity.
[29] "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for you build the tombs of the prophets and adorn the monuments of the righteous, [30] saying, `If we had lived in the days of our fathers, we would not have taken part with them in shedding the blood of the prophets.' [31] Thus you witness against yourselves, that you are sons of those who murdered the prophets. [32] Fill up, then, the measure of your fathers."
______________
Commentary:
27-28. The Jews used to whitewash tombs annually, shortly before the feast of the Passover. The whitewash made the tombs more visible and helped to avoid people brushing against them, which would have meant incurring legal uncleanness for seven days (Numbers 19:16; Luke 11:44).
In the sunlight, these tombs sparkled radiantly white, but inside they held corruption.
29-32. Our Lord shows them that they are cut off from the same cloth as their ancestors--not because they erect mausoleums in honor of prophets and just men but because they are guilty of the same sin as those who killed the prophets. Hence their hypocrisy, which makes them even worse than their fathers. With pained irony Jesus tells them that they are compounding the sins of their ancestors.
Clearly this is referring to His passion and death: if the ancients killed the prophets, by causing Him to suffer and die our Lord's contemporaries will still be more cruel.
___________________________
Source: "The Navarre Bible: Text and Commentaries". Biblical text taken from the Revised Standard Version and New Vulgate. Commentaries made by members of the Faculty of Theology of the University of Navarre, Spain. Published by Four Courts Press, Kill Lane, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland. Reprinted with permission from Four Courts Press and Scepter Publishers, the U.S. publisher.
Principles and Practices - August 26
The Spirit of Penance
We are all bound to do penance; none of us has a right to dispense himself from it, for none of us is without sin or without great need of expiation. For a soul, however, that is called to walk in the way of Christ's counsels, penance and prayer are the most important works, the most efficacious means of salvation for the soul herself and for others, the most useful instruments in the task of reparation to which chosen souls are called.
-Elizabeth Leseur.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
We are all bound to do penance; none of us has a right to dispense himself from it, for none of us is without sin or without great need of expiation. For a soul, however, that is called to walk in the way of Christ's counsels, penance and prayer are the most important works, the most efficacious means of salvation for the soul herself and for others, the most useful instruments in the task of reparation to which chosen souls are called.
-Elizabeth Leseur.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
Thoughts of St Augustine for August 26
Even that which is called evil, being rightly set out in its own place, commends more strikingly things that are good, so as that they are more pleasing and more praiseworthy through comparison with things that are evil.
_________________________
Click here for more information.
From Thoughts of St Augustine for Every Day
by Kathleen Mary Balfe (© 1926)
Nihil Obstat: Georgius D. Smith, S.T.D
Imprimatur: Edm. Can. Surmont
_________________________
Click here for more information.
From Thoughts of St Augustine for Every Day
by Kathleen Mary Balfe (© 1926)
Nihil Obstat: Georgius D. Smith, S.T.D
Imprimatur: Edm. Can. Surmont
Thoughts from St Alphonsus for Every Day-August 26
The proud never enjoy peace, because they never receive the respect or attention which a vain opinion of their own greatness makes them regard as their due. When loaded with honours they are not content.
_________________
From Thoughts from St Alphonsus for Every Day
Compiled by Rev. C. McNeiry, C.SS.R.
Imprimatur: Joseph Hull, C.SS.R., Prov. Angl. Sup.
Nihil Obstat: Innocentlus Apap, O.P., S.T.M., Censor Deptutatus.
Imprimatur: Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius Generalis.
Westmonasterii, Die 9a Junii, 1927.
First published 1927
_________________
From Thoughts from St Alphonsus for Every Day
Compiled by Rev. C. McNeiry, C.SS.R.
Imprimatur: Joseph Hull, C.SS.R., Prov. Angl. Sup.
Nihil Obstat: Innocentlus Apap, O.P., S.T.M., Censor Deptutatus.
Imprimatur: Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius Generalis.
Westmonasterii, Die 9a Junii, 1927.
First published 1927
News Updates, 8/25
Artificial life to be created 'within months'?
Genome experts claim vital scientific breakthrough
WSJ: VA pushes vets to consider death as an alternative to treatment
The ObamaCare bill may not contain “death panels,” but even Charles Lane and Eugene Robinson at the Washington Post wonder why the bill incentivizes end-of-life consultations with the elderly and ill as part of its cost-containment strategy. Maybe Lane and Robinson should take a look at the VA, where the Obama administration and former General Eric Shinseki have reinstated a program called “Your Life, Your Choices.”
Jury convicts killer of Jesuit priest in Moscow
Murderer found 'not guilty' of slaying second Jesuit
Pope: Following Jesus means bucking trends
Benedict urges faithful to move beyond scandal
Former Irish priest hits out at clergy sex abuse
Calls on Church to halt recruitment to the priesthood
Irish cardinal criticizes same-sex bill
Explains why it's an attack on freedom of religion
Cardinal hopes for 'new beginning' after violence
Says India needs to restore multi-cultural tradition
Priest takes Church to task for not ordaining gals
Maryknoller won't recant despite excommunication
[Just another demented heretic to be avoided ...]
Catholic women stage hunger strike in Florida
Parishioners protest transfer of two priests
Vatican deplores indifference to migrants
Malta foreign minister objects to accusations after deaths
=========
Other Issues
=========
JUDGE: Federal Reserve Must Release Reports on Emergency Loans
Obama: 'We are God's Partners in Matters of Life and Death'
A sudden shift towards religiously-charged rhetoric in {R}esident Obama's stumping for health care reform continued yesterday in a telephone conference, in which the president said that "we are God's partners in matters of life and death." Obama told the virtual gathering of Jewish rabbis - as many as 1000, according to the Washington Jewish Week news service - that he was "going to need your help in accomplishing necessary reform."
["Well, at least Obama is now considering God as his equal,” Fred Thompson...Obama's "god" is his father, Satan!]
Kunstler - Crisis Called Off
Whew, what a relief! Everybody from Ben Bernanke and a Who's Who of banking poobahs schmoozing it up in the heady vapors of Jackson Hole, Wyoming, to the dull scribes at The New York Times, toiling in their MC Escher hall of mirrors, to poor dim James Surowiecki over at The New Yorker, to - wonder of wonders! - the Green Shoots claque at the cable networks, to the assorted quants, grinds, nerds, pimps, factotums, catamites, and cretins in every office from the Bureau of Labor Statistics to the International Monetary Fund - every man-Jack and woman-Jill around the levers of power and opinion weighed in last week with glad tidings that the world's capital finance system survived what turned out to be a mere protracted bout of heartburn and has been reborn as the Miracle Bull economy. Our worries over. If you believe their [BS]. Which I don't...
VIDEO: Rep. Maxine Waters: Senators That Oppose Public Option Are "Neanderthals"
CNN: The longtime congresswoman, whose district includes much of Los Angeles, also described some senators who are opposed to the health care reform bill as "Neanderthals."
[Poor Maxine...another demented and deranged individual doing irreparable damage o the country - The Public Option, so stupid even a caveman can see right through it...]
Genome experts claim vital scientific breakthrough
WSJ: VA pushes vets to consider death as an alternative to treatment
The ObamaCare bill may not contain “death panels,” but even Charles Lane and Eugene Robinson at the Washington Post wonder why the bill incentivizes end-of-life consultations with the elderly and ill as part of its cost-containment strategy. Maybe Lane and Robinson should take a look at the VA, where the Obama administration and former General Eric Shinseki have reinstated a program called “Your Life, Your Choices.”
Jury convicts killer of Jesuit priest in Moscow
Murderer found 'not guilty' of slaying second Jesuit
Pope: Following Jesus means bucking trends
Benedict urges faithful to move beyond scandal
Former Irish priest hits out at clergy sex abuse
Calls on Church to halt recruitment to the priesthood
Irish cardinal criticizes same-sex bill
Explains why it's an attack on freedom of religion
Cardinal hopes for 'new beginning' after violence
Says India needs to restore multi-cultural tradition
Priest takes Church to task for not ordaining gals
Maryknoller won't recant despite excommunication
[Just another demented heretic to be avoided ...]
Catholic women stage hunger strike in Florida
Parishioners protest transfer of two priests
Vatican deplores indifference to migrants
Malta foreign minister objects to accusations after deaths
=========
Other Issues
=========
JUDGE: Federal Reserve Must Release Reports on Emergency Loans
Obama: 'We are God's Partners in Matters of Life and Death'
A sudden shift towards religiously-charged rhetoric in {R}esident Obama's stumping for health care reform continued yesterday in a telephone conference, in which the president said that "we are God's partners in matters of life and death." Obama told the virtual gathering of Jewish rabbis - as many as 1000, according to the Washington Jewish Week news service - that he was "going to need your help in accomplishing necessary reform."
["Well, at least Obama is now considering God as his equal,” Fred Thompson...Obama's "god" is his father, Satan!]
Kunstler - Crisis Called Off
Whew, what a relief! Everybody from Ben Bernanke and a Who's Who of banking poobahs schmoozing it up in the heady vapors of Jackson Hole, Wyoming, to the dull scribes at The New York Times, toiling in their MC Escher hall of mirrors, to poor dim James Surowiecki over at The New Yorker, to - wonder of wonders! - the Green Shoots claque at the cable networks, to the assorted quants, grinds, nerds, pimps, factotums, catamites, and cretins in every office from the Bureau of Labor Statistics to the International Monetary Fund - every man-Jack and woman-Jill around the levers of power and opinion weighed in last week with glad tidings that the world's capital finance system survived what turned out to be a mere protracted bout of heartburn and has been reborn as the Miracle Bull economy. Our worries over. If you believe their [BS]. Which I don't...
VIDEO: Rep. Maxine Waters: Senators That Oppose Public Option Are "Neanderthals"
CNN: The longtime congresswoman, whose district includes much of Los Angeles, also described some senators who are opposed to the health care reform bill as "Neanderthals."
[Poor Maxine...another demented and deranged individual doing irreparable damage o the country - The Public Option, so stupid even a caveman can see right through it...]
Monday, August 24, 2009
Gospel for Tuesday, 21st Week in Ordinary Time
Optional Memorial: St Louis
Optional Memorial: St Jospeph Calasanz, Priest
From: Matthew 23:23-26
Jesus Indicts the Scribes and Pharisees
(Jesus said to the scribes and Pharisees,) [23] "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for you tithe mint and dill and cummin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law, justice and mercy and faith; these you ought to have done, without neglecting the others. [24] You blind guides, straining out a gnat and swallowing a camel!
[25] "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for you cleanse the outside of the cup and of the plate, but inside they are full ofextortion and rapacity." [26] You blind Pharisee! first cleanse the inside of the cup and of the plate, that the outside also may be clean."
________________________
Commentary:
23. Mint, dill (aniseed) and cummin were herbs the Jews used in cooking or to perfume rooms. They were such insignificant items that they were not covered by the Mosaic precept on paying tithes (Leviticus 27:30-33; Deuteronomy 14:22ff); the precept did not apply to domestic animals and the more common agricultural products such as wheat, wine and olive oil. However, the Pharisees, being so intent on showing their scrupulous observance of the Law, paid tithes even of these herbs. Our Lord does not despise or reject the Law; He is simply telling people to get their priorities right: there is no point in attending to secondary details if one is neglecting what is really basic and important--justice, mercy and faith.
24. The Pharisees were so scrupulous about not swallowing any insect which the Law declared to be unclean that they went as far as to filter drinks through a linen cloth. Our Lord criticizes them for being so inconsistent--straining mosquitos, being so scrupulous about little things, yet quite happily "swallowing a camel", committing serious sins.
25-26. After reproaching the Pharisees for their hypocrisy in religious practice, our Lord now goes on to indict their twofacedness in matters of morality. The Jews used to perform elaborate washings of plates, cups and other tableware, in line with the regulations on legal cleansing (cf. Mark 7:1-4).
The example He chooses suggests a deeper level of meaning--concern for that moral purity which should characterize man's interior life. What is of prime importance is cleanliness of heart, an upright intention, consistency between what one says and what one does, etc.
___________________________
Source: "The Navarre Bible: Text and Commentaries". Biblical text taken from the Revised Standard Version and New Vulgate. Commentaries made by members of the Faculty of Theology of the University of Navarre, Spain. Published by Four Courts Press, Kill Lane, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland. Reprinted with permission from Four Courts Press and Scepter Publishers, the U.S. publisher.
Optional Memorial: St Jospeph Calasanz, Priest
From: Matthew 23:23-26
Jesus Indicts the Scribes and Pharisees
(Jesus said to the scribes and Pharisees,) [23] "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for you tithe mint and dill and cummin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law, justice and mercy and faith; these you ought to have done, without neglecting the others. [24] You blind guides, straining out a gnat and swallowing a camel!
[25] "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for you cleanse the outside of the cup and of the plate, but inside they are full ofextortion and rapacity." [26] You blind Pharisee! first cleanse the inside of the cup and of the plate, that the outside also may be clean."
________________________
Commentary:
23. Mint, dill (aniseed) and cummin were herbs the Jews used in cooking or to perfume rooms. They were such insignificant items that they were not covered by the Mosaic precept on paying tithes (Leviticus 27:30-33; Deuteronomy 14:22ff); the precept did not apply to domestic animals and the more common agricultural products such as wheat, wine and olive oil. However, the Pharisees, being so intent on showing their scrupulous observance of the Law, paid tithes even of these herbs. Our Lord does not despise or reject the Law; He is simply telling people to get their priorities right: there is no point in attending to secondary details if one is neglecting what is really basic and important--justice, mercy and faith.
24. The Pharisees were so scrupulous about not swallowing any insect which the Law declared to be unclean that they went as far as to filter drinks through a linen cloth. Our Lord criticizes them for being so inconsistent--straining mosquitos, being so scrupulous about little things, yet quite happily "swallowing a camel", committing serious sins.
25-26. After reproaching the Pharisees for their hypocrisy in religious practice, our Lord now goes on to indict their twofacedness in matters of morality. The Jews used to perform elaborate washings of plates, cups and other tableware, in line with the regulations on legal cleansing (cf. Mark 7:1-4).
The example He chooses suggests a deeper level of meaning--concern for that moral purity which should characterize man's interior life. What is of prime importance is cleanliness of heart, an upright intention, consistency between what one says and what one does, etc.
___________________________
Source: "The Navarre Bible: Text and Commentaries". Biblical text taken from the Revised Standard Version and New Vulgate. Commentaries made by members of the Faculty of Theology of the University of Navarre, Spain. Published by Four Courts Press, Kill Lane, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland. Reprinted with permission from Four Courts Press and Scepter Publishers, the U.S. publisher.
Principles and Practices - August 25
Have Patience in Aridity
There is the case of interior aridity, when it seems to a soul that all its knowledge and prudence have been taken from it. It is no longer conscious of God, of His grace and consolation, and of the things it knew before. All has been taken from it and hidden, so that it no longer knows which way to turn. This trial, although so painful, is extremely useful in order to convince the soul of its nothingness and of its deep need of God's help and inspiration.
-Msgr. Albert Farges.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
There is the case of interior aridity, when it seems to a soul that all its knowledge and prudence have been taken from it. It is no longer conscious of God, of His grace and consolation, and of the things it knew before. All has been taken from it and hidden, so that it no longer knows which way to turn. This trial, although so painful, is extremely useful in order to convince the soul of its nothingness and of its deep need of God's help and inspiration.
-Msgr. Albert Farges.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
Thoughts of St Augustine for August 25
It is enough for the Christian to believe that the cause of created things, whether heavenly or earthly, whether visible or invisible, is none other than the goodness of his Creator, who is God, One and True.
_________________________
Click here for more information.
From Thoughts of St Augustine for Every Day
by Kathleen Mary Balfe (© 1926)
Nihil Obstat: Georgius D. Smith, S.T.D
Imprimatur: Edm. Can. Surmont
_________________________
Click here for more information.
From Thoughts of St Augustine for Every Day
by Kathleen Mary Balfe (© 1926)
Nihil Obstat: Georgius D. Smith, S.T.D
Imprimatur: Edm. Can. Surmont
Thoughts from St Alphonsus for Every Day-August 25
As a sportsman keeps in reserve the best arrow for the last shot, in order to secure his prey, so did God among all his gifts keep Jesus in reserve till the fulness of time should come, and then he sent him as a dart, to wound with love the hearts of men.
_________________
From Thoughts from St Alphonsus for Every Day
Compiled by Rev. C. McNeiry, C.SS.R.
Imprimatur: Joseph Hull, C.SS.R., Prov. Angl. Sup.
Nihil Obstat: Innocentlus Apap, O.P., S.T.M., Censor Deptutatus.
Imprimatur: Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius Generalis.
Westmonasterii, Die 9a Junii, 1927.
First published 1927
_________________
From Thoughts from St Alphonsus for Every Day
Compiled by Rev. C. McNeiry, C.SS.R.
Imprimatur: Joseph Hull, C.SS.R., Prov. Angl. Sup.
Nihil Obstat: Innocentlus Apap, O.P., S.T.M., Censor Deptutatus.
Imprimatur: Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius Generalis.
Westmonasterii, Die 9a Junii, 1927.
First published 1927
Sunday, August 23, 2009
News Updates, 8/24
New nuns grateful to be in Elysburg [PA]
A rare look into the life of the new group of Discalced Carmelite nuns reveals a simple existence and an extreme devotion to prayer. The new set of nuns has moved from Nebraska to inhabit the Elysburg Monastery, which had been home to a revered group of Carmelite nuns who moved to Danville in January 2008...On Monday, after the Opening Solemn Mass and Blessing of the Monastery at 10 a.m., the nuns will return to solitude and will no longer be seen by members of the public...
Accept challenge of Jesus' hard teachings, Pope Benedict urges
Before Sunday’s Angelus prayer with pilgrims in the courtyard of Castel Gandolfo, Pope Benedict XVI spoke about today’s Gospel, in which Jesus' teaching about his presence in the Eucharist is met with resistance from the Jews and his own disciples. Followers of Christ must respond to his challenging teachings with lifelong commitment instead of trying to adapt his teachings to the fashions of the times, the Pope said...
Kissling slams bishops on healthcare
Writing in Salon, Frances Kissling criticizes the United States bishops for “not working hard enough on behalf of the most important and desperately needed healthcare reform-- the public option … the bishops are squandering every ounce of moral capital they have, not on the public option, but on ensuring that in any reform bill not one penny of federal funds is used for abortion.” The rabidly pro-abortion Kissling, now a visiting scholar at the Center for Bioethics at the University of Pennsylvania, is the former president of Catholics for a Free Choice [AKA Heretics for Infanticide]
Are We Living in the Last Days? (Carl Olson)
There has been a surge in interest in topics such as Bible prophecy and the Rapture in the last few years, largely due to the surprising success of the Left Behind series written by two devout Protestants...
Evangelical Lutherans abandon Bible teaching on homosexuality
Even though the Rev. Mark Chavez believes the leaders of his church made a decision in direct contradiction of the Bible by lifting a ban on sexually active, monogamous gays and lesbians as clergy, he said he's staying with the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America.
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Succumbs to Heresy
What happened is that representatives of the ECLA succumbed to heresy. Oh, I can hear it now, “how dare he say such a thing?” Because… it is true, and there is nothing compassionate about failing to help fellow Christians to reject error. Christians abandoning the clear teaching of the Sacred Scriptures and the unbroken Christian Tradition is not a new phenomenon in the 2000 year history of the Christian Church. What is new is the massive support that such a sad turn of events receives from this kind of media report....
[They merely added yet another heresy to those which they already embrace. It's rather easy, after accepting one heresy, to continue to embrace even more for the intellect has been blinded and the soul darkened...]
Jesuit Fr. Thomas Reese Comes to San Francisco
What Most Holy Redeemer Parish Has Come to Mean
US Jews protest Catholic document on salvation
Rabbis say relationship with Catholic leaders is at risk
Priest convicted of $1M theft dies in prison
Conn. cleric used church money for lavish lifestyle
Wis. bishops protest Catholic contraceptives demand
State mandate compels faithful to act against conscience
Spanish bishops: Don't kiss pilgrimage statue
Warning issued due to concern over swine flu contagion
Pope says hand 'a bit lazy' after plaster removed
Pin inserted in pontiff's wrist to keep bones in place
Man steals Virgin Mary painting to pay for abortion
Felon convicted of raping teen, first-degree sexual assault
Iraqi bishops express concern after blasts
'With these acts of violence, we are losing everything'
US bishops launch website on new Mass translation
'"In the years since Vatican II we have learned a lot'
Singapore PM warns religion threatens stability
'Most dangerous fault line is race and religion'
=========
Other Issues
=========
Latest Report to Obama (pdf)
on preps for swine flu, dated Aug 7th but released to the public today.
Scientists: swine flu may infect 30-50% of population. 30k-90k deaths, mostly young adults
Existing Home Sales Far Worse Than Advertised
The latest housing consensus as sung in three part harmony amongst the media and green shoots crowd. Their song goes something like this:
1) The worst of the housing trouble is now behind us;
2) Only recently, Housing was “Getting worse more slowly;”
3) That has transitioned to “Housing is getting better.”
I don’t believe it. IMO, all 3 are misleading or outright wrong. This post explains why...
Manufacturing Jobs Drop To Lowest Level Since 1941,
Below 9% of Workforce for the First Time.
Are you doing business with anti-gun companies?
Are gun owners unwittingly patronizing businesses that support infringements on their right to keep and bear arms?
Colonial Bank Failure Highlights the Problem
The bankruptcy of Colonial Bank (CNB) was the largest bank-bankruptcy in the U.S. since several large, U.S. financial institutions collapsed last year – with the most recent being Washington Mutual, last fall. However, there is one huge difference between the mega-bankruptcies of last year and the collapse of Colonial Bank a week ago...
Obama marks beginning of Muslim holy month
[Chairman] Obama is continuing his outreach [celebrating his Mohammedan roots?] to the Muslim world in a video message marking the start of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan...Obama says the rituals of Ramadan are a reminder of the principles Muslims and Christians have in common. He says those principles include advancing justice, progress, tolerance and the dignity of all human beings.
[EXCEPT the unborn, elderly, and sick (take a pain pill) - don't forget that this repugnant spawn of satan would not acknowledge the National Day of Prayer, yet he does this!]
Mercury Marine union in Wis. rejects concessions (8000 jobs lost) Mercury Marine moving to OK
FOND DU LAC, Wis. – Union workers at Mercury Marine put their jobs at risk Sunday when they rejected a package of wage and benefit concessions the boat engine maker said it needed or it would move their work to a nonunion plant in Oklahoma. Union leaders did not immediately release Sunday's tally but said the vote was "overwhelming" to reject what the company called its final offer.
Town Hall Meeting with U.S. Congressman Brian Baird
I, David William Hedrick, a member of the silent majority, decided that I was not going to be silent anymore. So, I let U.S. Congressman Brian Baird have it. I was one questioner out of 38, that was called at random from an audience that started at 3,000 earlier in the evening. Not expecting to be called on, I quickly scratched what I wanted to say on a borrowed piece of paper and with a pen that I borrowed from someone else in the audience minutes before I spoke. So much for the planned talking points of the right wing conspiracy.
White House Reveals Identity of Firm That Sent Unsolicited E-Mails on Health Reform
The White House hired a private communications company based in Minnesota to distribute mass e-mails, helping to shed light on how some recipients received e-mails in support of President Obama's health care plan without signing up for them, FOX News has learned...
[The "buck" gets passed in the Usurper's administration]
A rare look into the life of the new group of Discalced Carmelite nuns reveals a simple existence and an extreme devotion to prayer. The new set of nuns has moved from Nebraska to inhabit the Elysburg Monastery, which had been home to a revered group of Carmelite nuns who moved to Danville in January 2008...On Monday, after the Opening Solemn Mass and Blessing of the Monastery at 10 a.m., the nuns will return to solitude and will no longer be seen by members of the public...
Accept challenge of Jesus' hard teachings, Pope Benedict urges
Before Sunday’s Angelus prayer with pilgrims in the courtyard of Castel Gandolfo, Pope Benedict XVI spoke about today’s Gospel, in which Jesus' teaching about his presence in the Eucharist is met with resistance from the Jews and his own disciples. Followers of Christ must respond to his challenging teachings with lifelong commitment instead of trying to adapt his teachings to the fashions of the times, the Pope said...
Kissling slams bishops on healthcare
Writing in Salon, Frances Kissling criticizes the United States bishops for “not working hard enough on behalf of the most important and desperately needed healthcare reform-- the public option … the bishops are squandering every ounce of moral capital they have, not on the public option, but on ensuring that in any reform bill not one penny of federal funds is used for abortion.” The rabidly pro-abortion Kissling, now a visiting scholar at the Center for Bioethics at the University of Pennsylvania, is the former president of Catholics for a Free Choice [AKA Heretics for Infanticide]
Are We Living in the Last Days? (Carl Olson)
There has been a surge in interest in topics such as Bible prophecy and the Rapture in the last few years, largely due to the surprising success of the Left Behind series written by two devout Protestants...
Evangelical Lutherans abandon Bible teaching on homosexuality
Even though the Rev. Mark Chavez believes the leaders of his church made a decision in direct contradiction of the Bible by lifting a ban on sexually active, monogamous gays and lesbians as clergy, he said he's staying with the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America.
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Succumbs to Heresy
What happened is that representatives of the ECLA succumbed to heresy. Oh, I can hear it now, “how dare he say such a thing?” Because… it is true, and there is nothing compassionate about failing to help fellow Christians to reject error. Christians abandoning the clear teaching of the Sacred Scriptures and the unbroken Christian Tradition is not a new phenomenon in the 2000 year history of the Christian Church. What is new is the massive support that such a sad turn of events receives from this kind of media report....
[They merely added yet another heresy to those which they already embrace. It's rather easy, after accepting one heresy, to continue to embrace even more for the intellect has been blinded and the soul darkened...]
Jesuit Fr. Thomas Reese Comes to San Francisco
What Most Holy Redeemer Parish Has Come to Mean
US Jews protest Catholic document on salvation
Rabbis say relationship with Catholic leaders is at risk
Priest convicted of $1M theft dies in prison
Conn. cleric used church money for lavish lifestyle
Wis. bishops protest Catholic contraceptives demand
State mandate compels faithful to act against conscience
Spanish bishops: Don't kiss pilgrimage statue
Warning issued due to concern over swine flu contagion
Pope says hand 'a bit lazy' after plaster removed
Pin inserted in pontiff's wrist to keep bones in place
Man steals Virgin Mary painting to pay for abortion
Felon convicted of raping teen, first-degree sexual assault
Iraqi bishops express concern after blasts
'With these acts of violence, we are losing everything'
US bishops launch website on new Mass translation
'"In the years since Vatican II we have learned a lot'
Singapore PM warns religion threatens stability
'Most dangerous fault line is race and religion'
=========
Other Issues
=========
Latest Report to Obama (pdf)
on preps for swine flu, dated Aug 7th but released to the public today.
Scientists: swine flu may infect 30-50% of population. 30k-90k deaths, mostly young adults
Existing Home Sales Far Worse Than Advertised
The latest housing consensus as sung in three part harmony amongst the media and green shoots crowd. Their song goes something like this:
1) The worst of the housing trouble is now behind us;
2) Only recently, Housing was “Getting worse more slowly;”
3) That has transitioned to “Housing is getting better.”
I don’t believe it. IMO, all 3 are misleading or outright wrong. This post explains why...
Manufacturing Jobs Drop To Lowest Level Since 1941,
Below 9% of Workforce for the First Time.
Are you doing business with anti-gun companies?
Are gun owners unwittingly patronizing businesses that support infringements on their right to keep and bear arms?
Colonial Bank Failure Highlights the Problem
The bankruptcy of Colonial Bank (CNB) was the largest bank-bankruptcy in the U.S. since several large, U.S. financial institutions collapsed last year – with the most recent being Washington Mutual, last fall. However, there is one huge difference between the mega-bankruptcies of last year and the collapse of Colonial Bank a week ago...
Obama marks beginning of Muslim holy month
[Chairman] Obama is continuing his outreach [celebrating his Mohammedan roots?] to the Muslim world in a video message marking the start of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan...Obama says the rituals of Ramadan are a reminder of the principles Muslims and Christians have in common. He says those principles include advancing justice, progress, tolerance and the dignity of all human beings.
[EXCEPT the unborn, elderly, and sick (take a pain pill) - don't forget that this repugnant spawn of satan would not acknowledge the National Day of Prayer, yet he does this!]
Mercury Marine union in Wis. rejects concessions (8000 jobs lost) Mercury Marine moving to OK
FOND DU LAC, Wis. – Union workers at Mercury Marine put their jobs at risk Sunday when they rejected a package of wage and benefit concessions the boat engine maker said it needed or it would move their work to a nonunion plant in Oklahoma. Union leaders did not immediately release Sunday's tally but said the vote was "overwhelming" to reject what the company called its final offer.
Town Hall Meeting with U.S. Congressman Brian Baird
I, David William Hedrick, a member of the silent majority, decided that I was not going to be silent anymore. So, I let U.S. Congressman Brian Baird have it. I was one questioner out of 38, that was called at random from an audience that started at 3,000 earlier in the evening. Not expecting to be called on, I quickly scratched what I wanted to say on a borrowed piece of paper and with a pen that I borrowed from someone else in the audience minutes before I spoke. So much for the planned talking points of the right wing conspiracy.
White House Reveals Identity of Firm That Sent Unsolicited E-Mails on Health Reform
The White House hired a private communications company based in Minnesota to distribute mass e-mails, helping to shed light on how some recipients received e-mails in support of President Obama's health care plan without signing up for them, FOX News has learned...
[The "buck" gets passed in the Usurper's administration]
Gospel for August 24, Feast: St. Bartholomew, Apostle
From: John 1:45-51
The Calling of the First Disciples (Continuation)
[45] Philip found Nathaniel, and said to him, "We have found Him of whom Moses in the law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph." [46]Nathaniel said to him, "Can anything good come out of Nazareth?" Philip said to him, "Come and see." [47] Jesus saw Nathaniel coming to Him, and said to him, "Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile!" [48] Nathaniel said to Him, "How do you know me?" Jesus answered him, "Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you." [49] Nathaniel answered Him, "Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel! [50] Jesus answered him, "Because I said to you, I saw you under the fig tree, do you believe? You shall see greater things than these." [51] And He said to him, "Truly, truly, I say to you, you will see Heaven opened, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of Man."
_______________________
Commentary:
45-51. The Apostle Philip is so moved that he cannot but tell his friend Nathanael (Bartholomew) about his wonderful discovery (verse 45). "Nathanael had heard from Scripture that Jesus must come from Bethlehem, from the people of David. This belief prevailed among the Jews and also the prophet had proclaimed it of old, saying: `But you, O Bethlehem, who are little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler of Israel' (Micah 5:2). Therefore, when he heard that He was from Nazareth, he was troubled and in doubt, since he found that the announcement of Philip was not in agreement with the words of the prophecy" (St. John Chrysostom, "Hom. on St. John", 20, 1).
A Christian may find that, in trying to communicate his faith to others, they raise difficulties. What should he do? What Philip did--not trust his own explanation, but invite them to approach Jesus personally: "Come and see" (verse 46). In other words, a Christian should bring his fellow-men, his brothers into Jesus' presence through the means of grace which He has given them and which the Church ministers--frequent reception of the sacraments, and devout Christian practices.
Nathanael, a sincere person (verse 47), goes along with Philip to see Jesus; he makes personal contact with our Lord (verse 48), and the outcome is that he receives faith (the result of his ready reception of grace, which reaches him through Christ's human nature: verse 49).
As far as we can deduce from the Gospels, Nathanael is the first Apostle to make an explicit confession of faith in Jesus as Messiah and as Son of God. Later on St. Peter, in a more formal way, will recognize our Lord's divinity (cf. Matthew 16:16). Here (verse 51) Jesus evokes a text from Daniel (7:13) to confirm and give deeper meaning to the words spoken by His new disciple.
___________________________
Source: "The Navarre Bible: Text and Commentaries". Biblical text taken from the Revised Standard Version and New Vulgate. Commentaries made by members of the Faculty of Theology of the University of Navarre, Spain. Published by Four Courts Press, Kill Lane, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland. Reprinted with permission from Four Courts Press and Scepter Publishers, the U.S. publisher.
The Calling of the First Disciples (Continuation)
[45] Philip found Nathaniel, and said to him, "We have found Him of whom Moses in the law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph." [46]Nathaniel said to him, "Can anything good come out of Nazareth?" Philip said to him, "Come and see." [47] Jesus saw Nathaniel coming to Him, and said to him, "Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile!" [48] Nathaniel said to Him, "How do you know me?" Jesus answered him, "Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you." [49] Nathaniel answered Him, "Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel! [50] Jesus answered him, "Because I said to you, I saw you under the fig tree, do you believe? You shall see greater things than these." [51] And He said to him, "Truly, truly, I say to you, you will see Heaven opened, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of Man."
_______________________
Commentary:
45-51. The Apostle Philip is so moved that he cannot but tell his friend Nathanael (Bartholomew) about his wonderful discovery (verse 45). "Nathanael had heard from Scripture that Jesus must come from Bethlehem, from the people of David. This belief prevailed among the Jews and also the prophet had proclaimed it of old, saying: `But you, O Bethlehem, who are little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler of Israel' (Micah 5:2). Therefore, when he heard that He was from Nazareth, he was troubled and in doubt, since he found that the announcement of Philip was not in agreement with the words of the prophecy" (St. John Chrysostom, "Hom. on St. John", 20, 1).
A Christian may find that, in trying to communicate his faith to others, they raise difficulties. What should he do? What Philip did--not trust his own explanation, but invite them to approach Jesus personally: "Come and see" (verse 46). In other words, a Christian should bring his fellow-men, his brothers into Jesus' presence through the means of grace which He has given them and which the Church ministers--frequent reception of the sacraments, and devout Christian practices.
Nathanael, a sincere person (verse 47), goes along with Philip to see Jesus; he makes personal contact with our Lord (verse 48), and the outcome is that he receives faith (the result of his ready reception of grace, which reaches him through Christ's human nature: verse 49).
As far as we can deduce from the Gospels, Nathanael is the first Apostle to make an explicit confession of faith in Jesus as Messiah and as Son of God. Later on St. Peter, in a more formal way, will recognize our Lord's divinity (cf. Matthew 16:16). Here (verse 51) Jesus evokes a text from Daniel (7:13) to confirm and give deeper meaning to the words spoken by His new disciple.
___________________________
Source: "The Navarre Bible: Text and Commentaries". Biblical text taken from the Revised Standard Version and New Vulgate. Commentaries made by members of the Faculty of Theology of the University of Navarre, Spain. Published by Four Courts Press, Kill Lane, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland. Reprinted with permission from Four Courts Press and Scepter Publishers, the U.S. publisher.
Principles and Practices - August 24
Only In God
When our spirits shall be so united with that infinite love that we have but one and the self-same desire, love, and will with God, our hearts will find their true centre and repose and their perfect contentment. For the perfection of our soul consists in this, that being created by God capable of so great a good, it can never be content or satisfied but in the enjoyment of its God, its Lord, supreme good.
-Fr. Constantine Barbanson.
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From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
When our spirits shall be so united with that infinite love that we have but one and the self-same desire, love, and will with God, our hearts will find their true centre and repose and their perfect contentment. For the perfection of our soul consists in this, that being created by God capable of so great a good, it can never be content or satisfied but in the enjoyment of its God, its Lord, supreme good.
-Fr. Constantine Barbanson.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
Thoughts of St Augustine for August 24
But when the mind hath been imbued with the beginning of faith, which worketh by love, it goes on by living well to arrive at sight also wherein is unspeakable beauty known to holy and perfect hearts, the full vision of which is the highest happiness.
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From Thoughts of St Augustine for Every Day
by Kathleen Mary Balfe (© 1926)
Nihil Obstat: Georgius D. Smith, S.T.D
Imprimatur: Edm. Can. Surmont
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From Thoughts of St Augustine for Every Day
by Kathleen Mary Balfe (© 1926)
Nihil Obstat: Georgius D. Smith, S.T.D
Imprimatur: Edm. Can. Surmont
Thoughts from St Alphonsus for Every Day-August 24
The eternal truths are all spiritual things that are seen, not with the eyes of the body, but with the eyes of the mind - that is, by reflection and consideration.
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From Thoughts from St Alphonsus for Every Day
Compiled by Rev. C. McNeiry, C.SS.R.
Imprimatur: Joseph Hull, C.SS.R., Prov. Angl. Sup.
Nihil Obstat: Innocentlus Apap, O.P., S.T.M., Censor Deptutatus.
Imprimatur: Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius Generalis.
Westmonasterii, Die 9a Junii, 1927.
First published 1927
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From Thoughts from St Alphonsus for Every Day
Compiled by Rev. C. McNeiry, C.SS.R.
Imprimatur: Joseph Hull, C.SS.R., Prov. Angl. Sup.
Nihil Obstat: Innocentlus Apap, O.P., S.T.M., Censor Deptutatus.
Imprimatur: Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius Generalis.
Westmonasterii, Die 9a Junii, 1927.
First published 1927