Taking "Getting a Leg Up" to New Heights

There are literally hundreds of classic jokes to be made here. Knock yourselves out.

A Kingdom Divided...

Say what you will about Chris Hitchens, he does strive for some form of journalistic honesty.

Another Ringing Endorsement of my Latent Vegetarianism

I don't know about you, but having stable neural connections beats a tasty hamburger any day of the week.

If you can find someone snarkier and wittier...
they might have to be featured here more often. Dale Price of Dyspetic Mutterings crystalizes my feelings about those bishops who lack the gonads to correct the faithful in orthopraxic behavior.

Score Another One for the Seven Deadly Sins

I really thought that the Fox Network would score the hat trick and feature shows that promote all Seven Deadly Sins. Thus far, we have had Lust (Temptation Island, The O.C.), Anger (Cops), Greed (Greed, Who Wants to Marry a Millionaire), Pride (American Idol), Gluttony (The Glutton Bowl), and Sloth (American Idol, again, on the principle that being famous should stem from hard work and not a populist vote). We are only lacking Envy to have the ultimate Trifecta. In this same spirit, I thought that the International Federation of Competitive Eating deserved a nod. I wonder if I could put together an international federation of competitive napping?

Not Funny but Beautiful

Remember my motto: If you must choose between suffering and non-existence, suffering is always a better bet. The resident merry prankster of the blogiverse, Jeff Miller, gives us an example of how Life is precious

Interesting...

Read this post and then answer this question. Is this a good development or a bad development? No screeds allowed, only well reasoned opinions. via Zorak.

When It's Hers and Hers and His, Three's Company, too...

Although I doubt Jack Tripper would recognize this arrangement.School Gives Transvestites Own Restroom. Let's all thank our collective lucky stars that this hasn't happened in the U.S....yet.

A great Tragedy

U.S. hostage Johnson apparently beheaded. Please remember the repose of his soul and his family's needs in your prayers tonight. Eternal Rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace. Amen.

More on the Inquisition

Was sunning myself on the porch when I came across this on Mark's blog. Even more reason to read heavily and smile... Read Thomas F. Madden on the Inquisition if you know what's good for ya!

A Strange Convergence

When I was driving to the Cathedral for the Ordination Mass recently, I got behind a SUV that had three items on it/in it that taken separately aren't odd. When you put them together, it's a different story.

Here they are in the order I noticed them. 1. On the bumper, there was a pro-abortion bumper sticker. I particularly hate this specific sticker: "If you can't trust me with a choice how can you trust me with a child?" Well, let's see. Since you think that there is no problem with killing the child you are carrying, and that this "choice" has no moral implications, then you're right. I don't trust you with children...anyone's children. 2. A sticker on the back window from the Kairos movement. Kairos is a retreat program done in prisons to permit them the opportunity to know Christ better. 3. Hanging from the rear view mirror was a rosary. Now that's weird.

So let me see if I understand how this works. The driver of the car venerates Mary, the ultimate symbol of being pro-life. Imagine how things would be if she had said "no" to the Incarnation. At the same time, she promotes a choice that actively contradicts both God's special time and the possibility of conversion represented by Kairos and the rosary hanging from her rear view mirror. If you ever wanted a definition for the fragmented modern person, here it is.

I am sure this will make Fr. H feel better.

Fr. H has been having some serious troubles with his P.C., but I will let him regale you with them. You might remember to invoke St. Isidore of Seville as patron of the Internet as an assist to Father. You might also contact St. Dogbert and find out if he will work on the case.

You can't trust the Jesuits

Read this article to find out why. Kerry advisers tell hopeful to 'keep cool' on religion. Yes, Heaven forfend, that we actually find out from his own lips, that Kerry has sold his soul to Moloch. And I am soooo edified by the fact that a Jesuit advised Kerry to take this step. I am sure that all the Jesuit saints in Heaven, St. Ignatius of Loyola, the North American Martyrs, etc, get to watch one of their brethren sell out the common good and the Most Blessed Sacrament in one fell swoop.

Disclaimer: Before anyone says this, I know that all Jesuits aren't evil. Just this guy. Resume reading.

Novena to the Sacred Heart, Day Nine



Begin with the Sign of the Cross.

Act of Consecration to the Sacred Heart
Most sweet Jesus, Redeemer of the human race, look down upon us humbly prostrate before Your altar. We are Yours, and Yours we wish to be; but, to be more surely united with You, behold each one of us freely consecrates himself today to Your Most Sacred Heart. Many indeed have never known You; many too, despising Your precepts, have rejected You. Have mercy on them all, most merciful Jesus, and draw them to Your Sacred Heart.

You are King, O Lord, not only of the faithful who have never forsaken You, but also of the prodigal children who have abandoned You; grant that they may quickly return to their Father's house lest they die of wretchedness and hunger.

You are King of those who are deceived by erroneous opinions, or whom discord keeps aloof; call them back to the harbor of truth and unity of faith, so that soon there may be but one flock and one Shepherd.

You are King of all those who are still involved in the darkness of idolatry or of Islamism; refuse not to draw them all into the light and kingdom of God. Turn Your eyes of mercy toward the children of that race, once Your chosen people. Of old they called down upon themselves the Blood of the Savior; may it now descend upon them a laver of redemption and of life.

Grant, O Lord, to Your Church assurance of freedom and immunity from harm; give peace and order to all nations, and make the earth resound from pole to pole with one cry: Praise to the Divine Heart that wrought our salvation; to It be glory and Honor forever. Amen.

Sacred Heart Novena Prayer (1)
Hail, O Sacred Heart of Jesus, living and animating source of eternal life, infinite treasure of the Divinity, burning furnace of divine love. Our amiable Savior, consume our hearts with that burning love with which Yours is ever inflamed. Pour down on our souls those graces which flow from Your love, and let our hearts be so united with Yours, that our will may be one, and in all things conformed to Yours. May Yours be the standard and rule of our desires and of our actions.
V: O sweetest Heart of Jesus, we implore,
R: That we may ever love You more and more.

Conclude with the Sign of the Cross.

(1) Father Hardon's Catholic Prayer Book with meditations. Eternal Life Publishing: Bardstown, KY. pg. 175-6.

Entranced by the bitter harmony of your lips, I gaze beyond reason to find the oasis of your ruptured soul.

It would be beautiful, if only I could figure our what it means. More available at The Surrealist Compliment Generator.

Novena to the Sacred Heart, Day Eight



Begin with the Sign of the Cross.

Act of Reparation to the Sacred Heart
Most sweet Jesus, whose overflowing charity for men is requited by so much forgetfulness, negligence and contempt, behold us prostrate before Thee, eager to repair by a special act of homage the cruel indifference and injuries to which Thy loving Heart is everywhere subject.

Mindful, alas! that we ourselves have had a share in such great indignities, which we now deplore from the depths of our hearts, we humbly ask Thy pardon and declare our readiness to atone by voluntary expiation, not only for our own personal offenses, but also for the sins of those, who, straying far from the path of salvation, refuse in their obstinate infidelity to follow Thee, their Shepherd and Leader, or, renouncing the promises of their baptism, have cast off the sweet yoke of Thy law.

We are now resolved to expiate each and every deplorable outrage committed against Thee; we are now determined to make amends for the manifold offenses against Christian modesty in unbecoming dress and behavior, for all the foul seductions laid to ensnare the feet of the innocent, for the frequent violations of Sundays and holydays, and the shocking blasphemies uttered against Thee and Thy Saints. We wish also to make amends for the insults to which Thy Vicar on earth and Thy priests are subjected, for the profanation, by conscious neglect or terrible acts of sacrilege, of the very crimes of nations who resist the rights and teaching authority of the Church which Thou hast founded.

Would that we were able to wash away such abominations with our blood. We now offer, in reparation for these violations of Thy divine honor, the satisfaction Thou once made to Thy Eternal Father on the Cross and which Thou continuest to renew daily on our Altars; we offer it in union with the acts of atonement of Thy Virgin Mother and all the Saints and of the pious faithful on earth; and we sincerely promise to make recompense, as far as we can with the help of Thy grace, for all neglect of Thy great love and for the sins we and others have committed in the past. Henceforth, we will live a life of unswerving faith, of purity of conduct, of perfect observance of the precepts of the Gospel and especially that of charity. We promise to the best of our power to prevent others from offending Thee and to bring as many as possible to follow Thee.

O loving Jesus, through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mother, our model in reparation, deign to receive the voluntary offering we make of this act of expiation; and by the crowning gift of perseverance keep us faithful unto death in our duty and the allegiance we owe to Thee, so that we may all one day come to that happy home, where with the Father and the Holy Spirit Thou livest and reignest, God, forever and ever. Amen.

As we near the end of our novena, hopefully God has made us more aware of our weaknesses. Let us today beg of God a new beginning. By going to confession and receiving Communion devoutly, let us turn our thoughts and our love back to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

Sacred Heart Novena Prayer (1)
Hail, O Sacred Heart of Jesus, living and animating source of eternal life, infinite treasure of the Divinity, burning furnace of divine love. Our amiable Savior, consume our hearts with that burning love with which Yours is ever inflamed. Pour down on our souls those graces which flow from Your love, and let our hearts be so united with Yours, that our will may be one, and in all things conformed to Yours. May Yours be the standard and rule of our desires and of our actions.
V: O sweetest Heart of Jesus, we implore,
R: That we may ever love You more and more.

Conclude with the Sign of the Cross.

(1) Father Hardon's Catholic Prayer Book with meditations. Eternal Life Publishing: Bardstown, KY. pg. 175-6.

Finally!

I got the next series of questions up at A Dusty, Sunny Corner. I have been enjoying doing this book club, but I would like to see more comments. Ah, what can you do?

Also, I put up the next book selection up and I think most of our readers will be interested in reading this one.

Just like a lending Library...

I lent out my copy of Mark Shea's "Making Senses Out of Scriptures," and now I can't find the silly thing nor recall to whom I lent it. So, if you have it, please email me so that I can recover it. I am thinking seriously about using it as the next book for the book club.

As I suspected...
Inquisition Not So Widespread When will people finally learn how to understand history? You can't project your attitudes into the past. Maybe this will be a good start.

Novena to the Sacred Heart, Day Six



Begin with the Sign of the Cross.


Sacred Heart of Jesus, today I wish to live in You, in Your grace, in which I desire at all costs to persevere. Keep me from sin and strengthen my will by helping me to keep watch over my senses, my imagination, and my heart. Help me to correct my faults which are the source of sin. I beg You to do this, O Jesus, through Mary, Your Immaculate Mother.

Many people speak of the Catholic Faith as though it were something they could tuck into their pocket, something that they possess. Rather, we should desire to be possessed by the Faith, utterly absorbed by it, while at the same time never losing that unique identity that God has given us. As John Paul II pointed out in his letter, Redemptor Hominis, man cannot discover himself unless he discovers Christ. Today let us pray for a more zealous desire to love Christ and His Church. Let us also pray that whatever we do to harm communion with the universal Church, we will have the good sense to repent off.

Sacred Heart Novena Prayer (2)
Hail, O Sacred Heart of Jesus, living and animating source of eternal life, infinite treasure of the Divinity, burning furnace of divine love. Our amiable Savior, consume our hearts with that burning love with which Yours is ever inflamed. Pour down on our souls those graces which flow from Your love, and let our hearts be so united with Yours, that our will may be one, and in all things conformed to Yours. May Yours be the standard and rule of our desires and of our actions.
V: O sweetest Heart of Jesus, we implore,
R: That we may ever love You more and more.

Conclude with the Sign of the Cross.

(1)Father Hardon's Catholic Prayer Book with meditations. Eternal Life Publishing: Bardstown, KY. pg. 175.
(2) Father Hardon's Catholic Prayer Book with meditations. Eternal Life Publishing: Bardstown, KY. pg. 175-6.

Thank God for Lortab

I have been away from the blog because of particularly nasty back spasms. The doctor gave me Flexaril and Lortab. The Flex is a muscle relaxer and the Lortab is a pain pill. So after this post, and after I post to ADSC, I will be taking it easy and reading heavily.

How many bishops does it take...
...to screw in a light bulb? I don't know the answer to that question and, to tell the truth, I am afraid to find out. But I do know it only takes one to install a pastor. Though I have been pastor for just over a month, the ritual installation took place this weekend as the bishop stopped in to assist with Masses before continuing his drive to the bishops' meeting near Denver. My family and a grade school/high school classmate came up from Oklahoma City for the installation. It was a simple ceremony, punctuated by the bishop's presentation of me to the parish, my leading of the flock in professing the Creed, and my signing of the profession of faith before the archbishop and the parish.

Afterwards, several parishioners, life-long Catholics, remarked to me, "I don't think I have ever seen such a ceremony before." With glee, I replied in each instance, "You probably haven't. It was the first time for me to see it too! It is a ceremony our bishop almost never does, but it exists and so I requested that during his already-scheduled visit to the parish, he make use of that ceremony. And he agreed." Especially in a time when dissent or simply vague profession of faith seems in vogue, I think the ceremony of installation is crucial because it is centered on the public profession of the Faith. In addition to the Creed normally recited at Mass, the pastor (or other cleric given an office to be exercised in the name of the Church) must add the following profession. I will type it here because I think upon reading it you will see how important it is that (1) each priest be required to publicly state it; and, (2) that our people, whose own profession of faith may need to be encouraged, hear their pastor make such a statement. It could lead to a wake-up call for each parishioner. At the end of the Creed the pastor adds:

With firm faith I also believe everything contained in God's Word, written or handed down in tradition and proposed by the Church, whether in solemn judgment or in ordinary and universal magisterium, as divinely revealed and calling for faith.
I also firmly accept and hold each and every thing that is proposed by the Church definitively regarding teaching on faith and morals.
Moreover, I adhere with religious submission of will and intellect to the teachings which either the Roman Pontiff or the college of bishops enunciate when they exercise the authentic magisterium even if they proclaim those teachings in an act that is not definitive.

"Under God"
A Supreme Court ruling today, Flag Day, allows the phrase "under God" to remain in our Nation's Pledge of Allegiance. I'm not sure that the ruling is much of a victory for the phrase because the Court's ruling seems to be based more on legal procedure or jurisdiction than the constitutional question itself. The Court found that the man who filed the lawsuit on behalf of his minor daughter did not have full custody of her and so could not legally speak or act on her behalf. Though concurring opinions written by other Justices seem to address the constitutional question, the matter, it seems to me, was decided outside of that realm.

Novena to the Sacred Heart, Day Five



Begin with the Sign of the Cross.

Triple Intention(1)
Eternal Father, I offer You the Sacred Heart of Jesus, with all its love, all its sufferings, and all its merits:
First -- To expiate all the sins I have committed this day and during all my life. Glory be to the Father...
Second -- To purify the good I have done badly this day and during all my life. Glory be to the Father...
Third -- To supply the good I ought to have done, and that I have neglected this day and during all my life. Glory be to the Father...

How good is the love of Jesus that He invites always to renew ourselves at the founts of His Most Sacred Heart! From this Heart, undiluted flows of grace, love, and unity with God most high. And in general, our response is in difference. Let us pray today for freedom from our sins and the hope to grow more perfectly united to the days that remain to us.

Sacred Heart Novena Prayer (2)
Hail, O Sacred Heart of Jesus, living and animating source of eternal life, infinite treasure of the Divinity, burning furnace of divine love. Our amiable Savior, consume our hearts with that burning love with which Yours is ever inflamed. Pour down on our souls those graces which flow from Your love, and let our hearts be so united with Yours, that our will may be one, and in all things conformed to Yours. May Yours be the standard and rule of our desires and of our actions.
V: O sweetest Heart of Jesus, we implore,
R: That we may ever love You more and more.

Conclude with the Sign of the Cross.

(1)Father Hardon's Catholic Prayer Book with meditations. Eternal Life Publishing: Bardstown, KY. pg. 175.
(2) Father Hardon's Catholic Prayer Book with meditations. Eternal Life Publishing: Bardstown, KY. pg. 175-6.

Novena to the Sacred Heart, Day Four



Begin with the Sign of the Cross.

Eucharistic Heart (1)
O most sacred, most loving Heart of Jesus, Thou are concealed in the Holy Eucharist, and Thou beatest for us still. Now, as then, Thou sayest, "With desire, I have desired." I worship Thee, then, with all my best love and awe, with my fervant affection, with my most subdued, most resolved will.

O my God, when Thou dost condescend to suffer me to receive Thee, to eat and drink Thee, and Thou for a while takest up thy abode within Me, O make my heart beat with Thy Heart. Purify it of all that is earthly,all that is proud and sensual, all that is hard and cruel, of all perversity, of all disorder, of all deadness. So fill it with Thee, that neither the events of the day nor the circumstances of the time may have any power to ruffle it, but that in Thy Love and Thy fear it may have peace. Amen.

Sacred Heart Novena Prayer (2)
Hail, O Sacred Heart of Jesus, living and animating source of eternal life, infinite treasure of the Divinity, burning furnace of divine love. Our amiable Savior, consume our hearts with that burning love with which Yours is ever inflamed. Pour down on our souls those graces which flow from Your love, and let our hearts be so united with Yours, that our will may be one, and in all things conformed to Yours. May Yours be the standard and rule of our desires and of our actions.
V: O sweetest Heart of Jesus, we implore,
R: That we may ever love You more and more.

Conclude with the Sign of the Cross.

(1)Father Hardon's Catholic Prayer Book with meditations. Eternal Life Publishing: Bardstown, KY. pg. 174.
(2) Father Hardon's Catholic Prayer Book with meditations. Eternal Life Publishing: Bardstown, KY. pg. 175-6.

Novena to the Sacred Heart, Day Three



Begin with the Sign of the Cross.

Memorare(1)
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought they intercession, was left unaided. Inspired with this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my Mother. To thee I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen. (N.B. A partial indulgence is granted to the faithful who reverently recite the Memorare.)

Without Mary, there is no Incarnation. Without the Incarnation, there is no manifestation of the Love of God embodied in the Sacred Heart of Jesus. During this time of meditation, thank Mary for her "yes" to the decrees of the Lord. Pray that you can have a Heart like hers and Her Son's. Especially, remember those who are estranged and distant from their families.

Sacred Heart Novena Prayer (2)
Hail, O Sacred Heart of Jesus, living and animating source of eternal life, infinite treasure of the Divinity, burning furnace of divine love. Our amiable Savior, consume our hearts with that burning love with which Yours is ever inflamed. Pour down on our souls those graces which flow from Your love, and let our hearts be so united with Yours, that our will may be one, and in all things conformed to Yours. May Yours be the standard and rule of our desires and of our actions.
V: O sweetest Heart of Jesus, we implore,
R: That we may ever love You more and more.

Conclude with the Sign of the Cross.

(1)Father Hardon's Catholic Prayer Book with meditations. Eternal Life Publishing: Bardstown, KY. pg. 211.
(2) Father Hardon's Catholic Prayer Book with meditations. Eternal Life Publishing: Bardstown, KY. pg. 175-6.

Reflections on Reagan
I stridently avoid any hint of canonization at funerals. The reality of the matter of death is that the death of a person is the death of a sinner needing redemption, no matter how good he was. (Notice the issue of the passing of the Blessed Virgin Mary was the passing of one already redeemed beforehand by special grace from God.) So, please don't take these words as a canonization. I do find it interesting however that Reagan's funeral coincides with a certain selection in the Liturgy of the Hours, the Office of Readings for St. Barnabas, which begins: "You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden." How many times have we heard that phrase this week? How many times have we been reminded that it was a motto of sorts for Reagan's optimism for our country?

It seems to me, with the death of Ronald Reagan we have the passing of a genuinely decent gentleman. As I watched the extensive coverage and saw images of him from the past, I couldn't help but recall my maternal grandfather (the only one I ever knew). That generation of people born in the early 1900's certainly seemed to produce some fine moral character. Reagan was credited with it. I know my grandfather possessed it. Of course, that generation had its share of evil too. I pray history may eventually look back on my generation and note it more for its good moral character than a deficiency thereof; though, I fear much work must be done before that can happen.

The pageantry surrounding the funeral rites was majestic, beautiful, and moving. Seeing so many of the world's leaders, current and past, gathered in a House of God, singing hymns of faith really inspired me and made me hope that the conversion of each of them continues on course, as it must for me too. For some reason, I was really intrigued by the images of world leaders contemporary with Reagan as they stood near his coffin lying in state in the Capitol rotunda. They most suredly thought back to the days Reagan walked the earth with them. Did they recall high level meetings, tense diplomacy, and former power? Facing his coffin, did they wonder what it all amounted to, how it would be judged by history and, more importantly, by God? Did they think of the day, no doubt coming soon, when they would be placed inside a coffin? The tributes to Reagan and to Nancy were quite dear. I thought the current President Bush did a fine job with his eulogy.

I have really felt drawn to watch the many events surrounding America's farewell to President Reagan. I don't know why. It doesn't feel like I am glued to the TV simply because it is "an historic moment". I don't think I am watching just to take note of the intricacies of State funerals. I wasn't very politically aware during Reagan's presidency, so I don't think I am watching due to any party nostalgia. But I am drawn. Perhaps it is because his presidency was at a time when I was just beginning to take a bit more note of politics (I was starting high school at the end of his terms). It was a time that seemed more simple than today. A time when I could still fairly safely be naive. A time I wish, in many ways, would return but cannot. The "why" of this week's hold on me remains a mystery. And maybe your experience of this week is the same, though perhaps for different reasons.

I have also marveled at the ability of a public figure to make such seemingly personal connections with ordinary people he never actually met. Seeing the many faces of citizens weeping along Constitution Avenue and among the crowds at the airports made me ask, how? How does a public figure do that? What is it about a personality, a charisma, that can elicit such strong emotional reactions from strangers? And is it really the figure of Reagan and his passing that is responsible for those reactions, or is it more an emotional reaction in honor of Nancy and those President Reagan leaves behind? A curious matter.

Oh, and to lighten the mood a bit, no offense intended to the Navy, but I think it really got the short end of the stick when it comes to cool uniforms!

Indulging in Opera, Part One

In the mail yesterday arrived my copy of Bryn Terfel singing Wagner arias. Selections on this album are from "The Flying Dutchman," "The Master Singer of Nuremberg," "Tannhauser," and "Parsifal." The liner notes are quite good as they give a snapshot of the operas in question and show a connection between all of the characters featured. In this collection, we are dealing the imperfect hero seeking redemption.

This is the first step in my efforts to better appreciate Opera as an art form. Many critics would say that Wagner represents essentially the last stage of evolution before the art form begins to change into operetta and musical theater. So, as with so many aspects of my life, I am beginning bass-ackward.

I must admit how stirring and dramatic and powerful Wagner's orchestrations are. They remind me of what the soundtrack to a thunderstorm should be. It also becomes clear to me why Hitler would find this music inspiring to his vision of a new Germany. But that's beside the point.

So here's a thank you to the Meisterlehrer Cacciaguida for his most useful notes. More updates as I learn the music...

I don't think this is what is meant by "the Church militant"

Church Uses Boot Camp To Teach Discipline. Funny how the Baptists can accuse Catholics of having corrupted the faith with pagan influence when at the drop of a hat they will import any secular model into the general practice of their local congregation. *Roll of the eyes*

Novena to the Sacred Heart, Day Two



Begin with the Sign of the Cross.

King of the Universe (1)
O Christ Jesus, I acknowledge You king of the universe. All that has been created has been made for You. Exercise upon me all Your rights.

I renew my baptismal promises renouncing Satan and all his works and pomps. I promise to live a good Christian life and to do all in my power to procure the triumph of the rights of God and Your Church.

Divine Heart of Jesus, I offer You my poor actions in order to obtain that all hearts may acknowledge Your sacred royalty and that thus the reign of Your peace may be established throughout the universe. Amen.

Pause to reflect on how you could more perfectly surrender yourself to Christ, our Eternal King. Consider all the people you have hurt or imperfectly served because you were too wrapped up in trying to be king of the Universe. Ask Jesus for forgiveness for your sins and for the graces necessary to overcome them. At this time, you may mention your particular intentions for this novena.

Sacred Heart Novena Prayer (2)
Hail, O Sacred Heart of Jesus, living and animating source of eternal life, infinite treasure of the Divinity, burning furnace of divine love. Our amiable Savior, consume our hearts with that burning love with which Yours is ever inflamed. Pour down on our souls those graces which flow from Your love, and let our hearts be so united with Yours, that our will may be one, and in all things conformed to Yours. May Yours be the standard and rule of our desires and of our actions.
V: O sweetest Heart of Jesus, we implore,
R: That we may ever love You more and more.

Conclude with the Sign of the Cross.

(1)Father Hardon's Catholic Prayer Book with meditations. Eternal Life Publishing: Bardstown, KY. pg. 174.
(2) Father Hardon's Catholic Prayer Book with meditations. Eternal Life Publishing: Bardstown, KY. pg. 175-6.

Umm, the devil made me do it?

Glad to see that the outside of this guy didn't match the inside.

I told you could fix anything with that stuff!

I am sure that a dozen home repair shows are waiting to snap her up.

Novena to the Sacred Heart, Day One



Begin with the Sign of the Cross.

In the Eucharist(1)
Lord Jesus Christ, in union with that divine intention by which on earth You offered to God Your praises through Your most Sacred Heart, and now offer them in the sacrament of the Eucharist everywhere on earth even to the end of time, I most gladly offer You throughout this day all my thoughts and intentions, all my affections and desires, all my words and deeds, in imitation of the most sacred heart of the blessed and ever Virgin Mary Immaculate. Amen.

The most basic posture of man before the mystery of the Holy Eucharist is thanksgiving. Spend some time in quiet reflection considering every good thing God gives and every difficult trial God permits you to suffer.

Sacred Heart Novena Prayer (2)
Hail, O Sacred Heart of Jesus, living and animating source of eternal life, infinite treasure of the Divinity, burning furnace of divine love. Our amiable Savior, consume our hearts with that burning love with which Yours is ever inflamed. Pour down on our souls those graces which flow from Your love, and let our hearts be so united with Yours, that our will may be one, and in all things conformed to Yours. May Yours be the standard and rule of our desires and of our actions.
V: O sweetest Heart of Jesus, we implore,
R: That we may ever love You more and more.

Conclude with the Sign of the Cross.

(1)Father Hardon's Catholic Prayer Book with meditations. Eternal Life Publishing: Bardstown, KY. pg. 173-4.
(2) Father Hardon's Catholic Prayer Book with meditations. Eternal Life Publishing: Bardstown, KY. pg. 175-6.

All the News that is not News

Well, it isn't news to us who strive to remain in full communion (thanks, Fr. H for the reminder). I received this news report for ZENIT via email. A tip of the biretta to Marie Steine for sending it my way. Ah, I love the smell of episcopal dope slaps.

U.S. Cardinal: Lay Ministers Should Be in Sync With Church

CHICAGO, JUNE 10, 2004 (Zenit.org).- Catholic lay ministers who
disagree with the Church's teachings should not be allowed to assist in
distributing Communion, according to a letter reportedly sent by Cardinal
Francis George to pastors in his archdiocese.

"If a minister should manifest his/her disagreement with Church
teaching, he/she should not continue in active ministry until such time that
the minister is reconciled to the Church's teaching," wrote Cardinal
George, according to the Chicago Sun-Times.

Though this has been the policy of the archdiocese all along, Cardinal
George said earlier this month he was writing in response to questions
posed to the Church and in the media recently, the newspaper said.

In Arizona, meanwhile, Bishop Thomas Olmsted of Phoenix said that
Catholic politicians who unambiguously support abortion "rights" should not
receive Communion, the Arizona Republic reported today.

But he declined to say he would deny Communion to politicians who do
not follow Church teaching on abortion, the newspaper said.

Asked what he would do if John Kerry, the presumptive Democratic
candidate for president who is a Catholic and pro-abortion, came to him for
Communion, the leader of the Phoenix Diocese told the newspaper: "If he
asked about it, I would tell him he should not receive Communion."

Just as a side note, I think it is really interesting how much Olmstead has stressed that the pro-choice candidate must himself choose to refrain from receiving Holy Communion. Could it be that His Excellency is trying *GASP* to form people's consciences. Run for cover, folks. It's the Apocalypse...(just kidding...I really don't know when that will be...really...stop asking...)

(Un-)Planned Parenthood Visit
Fr. Tharp told me to blog on this. The event I will describe took place at my first assignment, some three years ago. First you need to know something about me. Every once in a while I get really sassy. I don't know if it is a full moon or misplaced zeal, or what... but it happens. A wild idea will come to my mind and, presuming it is not contrary to divine and civil law, I go for it. This story is one such example.

I was driving back to the parish and glanced over to see the Planned Parenthood local office. I had passed by it many times before, but today the wild hair sprung! So, I turned around and parked in front of it. I walked inside the office into the waiting area. A young couple was seated there (I was glad I did not recognize them as parishioners). Folks, remember I was in Roman collar. You should have seen the looks. I stepped up to the sliding window (much like a doctor's office) and asked the receptionist if they had any information about what Planned Parenthood is and what they do. She disappeared for a bit and returned with a few pamphlets, pointing to one she described as their best one. She was clearly taken aback by my presence. She handed me the pamphlets and, I am sure, she expected me to leave. Instead, I just stood there and proceeded to SLOWLY thumb through the pamphlets, reading them, searching for buzz words. The phone rang and she answered it, occasionally quickly glancing up at me as if to ascertain whether I might be leaving soon. As she spoke, I noticed a sign attached to her glass window notifying patrons of an office policy regarding children playing in the lobby (I'll save what it said for the end because it is the punch line).

When she hung up the phone, I began asking her questions. I went directly for the jugular asking, "You don't give referrals for abortions, do you?" She responded, "We offer confidential, professional advice about all the options available to those who come to us." I said, "Oh, I see." Then I raised my hand to that sign I had seen, tapping on it as I said, "It sort of makes this sign rather ironic then, doesn't it?" The sign read: "WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR CHILDREN." Then I turned and walked out.

Thick with irony
I came across a business card for the pastor of the First Christian Church, part of the ecclesial community known as the Disciples of Christ. On the back of the card was a statement that made me howl with laughter, so thick with irony was it. It reads in part:

This mainline Protestant denomination centers faith not in a creed but in Christ, allowing plenty of room for differing personal beliefs."

Well, there is at least honesty to their credit. The negative formation "not in a creed" is certainly true to the character of being one who protests. Now considering the origin of the word "disciple", its link to being a follower, adhering to and spreading the teachings of another, and the derivative word "discipline", what can it possibly mean to claim to be a disciple while at the same time not having a common system of beliefs. For, ultimately, that's what "allowing plenty of room for differing personal beliefs" means. How can one be a disciple when there is no discipline?

And the final point I want to make: Though the business card pretends to center faith in Christ without creeds, isn't the brief statement precisely that? A creed? And still more, how can one have a belief about someone or something without at the same time having a statement about one's belief? I mean, to take a mundane example, I believe bologna is evil. So, with such belief, I must necessarily make a statement when presented with the idea of eating bologna: No to bolgona; yes to real meat. Hhhmmm. Bologna. The irony is thicker still!

Bardot Convicted of Inciting Racial Hatred

I am shocked...how can she be so insensitive?! Oh, I know...because she is paying attention to details.

Mustn't make a joke...must resist evil temptation...
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I was blind, but now I see.

We received sad news that Ray Charles Robinson died today. His life was filled with tragedy and difficulty. He was a talented musician and a profound gift to the world of music. Granted, he wasn't an angel by any stretch of the imagination with a history of drug abuse and frequent womanizing. May God have mercy on him and all the faithful departed.

What is it worth to you?

I often hear good, faithful Catholics lament that there are no opportunities for them to be better formed in the Catholic Faith. Fair enough; there ought to be more. But what if something was right under your nose? What would you be willing to sacrifice to go?

The Fifth Annual Midwest Family Life Conference will take place on August 6-8, 2004 in Wichita, KS. Last year's conference was great and this year's is shaping up to be more of the same. The conference's theme this year is "Be Not Afraid: Open Your Heart to Christ the Savior." The list of featured speakers is long with some notable names among them such as Fr. Andrew Apostoli, C.F.R., Jason Evert, Jeff Cavins, Tim Staples, et al. Did I mention there will a concert by John Michael Talbot and a one woman performance on the life of Saint Therese. There are programs also for high school, jr. high, and children. This way, you really are discovering the depths of the Faith as a family. Also, the show floor has some of the best in Catholic literature for sale. I have to hide my credit cards before I go, lest I permanently bankrupt myself. Also, since St. Joseph's Communications helps to put this on, tapes of ALL the talks are available at reasonable prices.

Now, let's talk practical stuff. As far as travel time goes, I sat down with a map and estimated that most people would be willing to drive 8 hours to get to Wichita for such a great conference. So along the outer ring of cities would be: Sioux Falls, SD; Des Moines, IA; Kansas City (both versions); Little Rock, AR; Dallas, TX; Abilene, TX; Lubbock, TX; Colorado Springs, CO; and Denver, CO. If you are inside this ring, then you are less than 8 hours from the conference. How much does it cost? If you register before July 22, then the cost $80.00 for each family, $70.00 for married couples, $35.00 for each adult, $30.00 for each senior citizen, and $15.00 for each child/teen. That's for the WHOLE WEEKEND! That's a steal! Hotel costs of course vary but the average is about $70.00 a night.

Call to Register at 877.526.2151 or online. Tell 'em the Ragemonkey sent you!

I'm not sure this is what was meant by using all means of social communication to spread the Gospel, but maybe I am mistaken. On the other hand, it makes a very good point clearly.
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I’ll spare him the research

Since Fr. Hamilton is busy, presumably, with being the pastor of the largest parish, territorily speaking, in the Archdiocese, I thought I might pinch hit for him for a moment. In his post, “Communion with Christ,” a couple of people commented on having the baptism of the child delayed due to not having adequate godparents. Lydia asks this: I was very surprised (to put it mildly) that anyone would consider teaching on "parenting and Catholic faith" who waited almost a year before having her own child baptized. The CCC makes it clear that "The Church and the parents would deny a child the priceless gift of becoming a child of God were they not to confer Baptism shortly after birth." (CCC 1250) The Code of Canon Law puts it this way: "Parents are obliged to take care that infants are baptized in the first few weeks..." (CIC 867). I may be wrong about this, but I think godparents are not an absolute necessity for baptism. On the other hand, Baptism is so important that Canon Law considers it licit in the case of an infant in danger of death, even if the parents are non-Catholic and even against their will. This led me to ask “are godparents mandatory for a baptism to take place?” Please permit me to dog my fingers for a moment for an answer.

First, we need to make a distinction between “delaying” and “denying.” For some reason, when people hear the words “not now,” they immediately understand them as “no, not ever.” (It must be our microwave-instant gratification culture at work.) This is not the case. While the Church recognizes the great gift of Baptism, the Church also understands that the sacrament is not magic. On the part of parents and godparents, preparation must be undertaken so that the sacrament’s graces may be realized in the child (cf. Canon 851, degree 2). In canon 868, paragraph 1, degree 2, we are advised that for a baptism to be lawful “there be a realistic hope that the child will be brought up in the Catholic religion. If such hope is truly lacking, the baptism is, in accordance with the provisions of particular law, to be deferred and the parents advised of the reason for this.” The Church understands that, all things being equal, every effort is to be made to insure that the celebration of Baptism is not merely functional, but leads to a true change in the daily life of the person requesting Baptism or the parents forming the children they have baptized.

Second, the comparison Lydia makes with normal situations and situations where the danger of death is present limps a little. The Church recognizes, with all due charity and common sense, that when death is imminent, all bets are off. Only the most serious matters cannot be overlooked; otherwise the person is to receive the sacraments, especially Baptism, for the good of their salvation. Therefore, to compare emergency situations with normal every day situations doesn’t really work.

Now to the specific matter. Are godparents strictly necessary for Baptism to take place? Canon 872 addresses this issue. It says: “In so far as possible, a person being baptized is to be assigned a sponsor. In the case of an adult baptism, the sponsor’s role is to assist the person in Christian initiation. In the case of an infant baptism, the role is together with the parents to present the child for baptism, and to help it to live a Christian life befitting the baptized and faithfully to fulfill the duties inherent in Baptism.” The Commentary on the Codex from the Canon Law Society of Great Britain and Ireland adds this salient point: “A person who is to be baptized is to be assigned a sponsor ‘in so far as possible.’ Under normal circumstances this will always be possible, but in danger of death or other similar difficult circumstances it may not be (CIC Commentary – GB/I pg. 481).” So under normal circumstances, a child is to have a godparent although it is not absolutely forbidden not to. Since the practice of having sponsors and godparents for the newly baptized extends back to the earliest days of the Church, it is a practice that should be respected more than avoided. This also suggests to me that when parents are selecting godparents, they ought to be looking for the best candidate available, and not merely dispensing it as though it was a nepotistic spoil.

One of our commentators mentioned that they couldn’t find a godparent because they were new in the area and most of their family were not Catholic. This is a situation envisioned by the Code as well. In Canon 874, paragraph 1, degree 1 notes that a godparent can be selected by the parish priest if the need arises. While it is not as intimate a connection, it can be a very good way to encourage a newly arrived couple to think of the parish as their new home. I would imagine this would be especially true for immigrants and people newly arrived in the U.S. This suggests that in normal circumstances, before a baptism takes place, every effort should be made to find a suitable sponsor for the one to be baptized.

So in the end, I think you have to say, that having a godparent is a good idea, and is strongly encouraged, but if a serious enough reason arose, then this absence of godparent is not a diriment impediment to administering the sacrament.

Did you all forget?

Forget what?, you ask. Forget to check out A Dusty, Sunny Corner and Apologize and Don't Be Sorry. There is new stuff up at both. I gathered from the lack of response at ADSC that WWII is not exciting material for everyone. But the eschatological hijinks continue at AADBS as we consider briefly the reality of purgatory. Also, I think I am going to start working on some posts about the moral implications of voting and posting them there. They will be very provisional and meant only to stimulate conversation and hopefully to sketch out the large outline of the question. Other smarter folks will have to flesh out my poor thoughts, if they are worth the effort. I'll keep you posted.

Can I get a "Boo-Yah!"?

Tonight was the first night of the Borromeo Project in Alva. This class is the small one, only four participants. For the most part it went well, but I felt like I talked too much. I may need to keep a stopwatch of my talking or something like that. It is very rewarding to see people start to get excited about learning the Faith.

Anyway, to fulfill my role in the universe as "theological crack dealer," I thought I would give you all a little taste of the Borromeo Project, just so you can get a sense of what it is like. Now remember, you do these sessions by yourself in preparation for a group discussion once a week. So, here are days one and two of week two, first term of the Borromeo Project. Paragraph numbers refer to the CCC.


The opening and closing prayers are recited as one begins and concludes one's time of study.
Opening Prayer:

Let us Pray:
O my God, I firmly believe that you are one God in three divine Persons, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; I believe that your divine Son became man and died for our sins, and that he will come to judge the living and the dead. I believe these and all the truths which the Holy Catholic Church teaches, because you revealed them, who can neither deceive nor be deceived.


Closing Prayer:

Let us pray:
O My God, I love you above all things, with my whole heart and soul, because you are all-good and worthy of all love. I love my neighbor as myself for the love of you. I forgive all who injured me and ask pardon of all whom I have injured.

Week 2, Day 1
Date:

Step One: Preparation for Study
A. Begin by making the Sign of The Cross
B. Recite the Opening Prayer: See Page 14

Step Two: Reading
Read Paragraphs #84 – 95

Step Three: Time for Reflection
A. Reflection Questions:
1. Whose task is it to give definite interpretations of the meaning of Sacred Scripture and Tradition? What is the obligation of the faithful in reference to these definitive interpretations?
2. Define a dogma. By whose authority does the Church define these things?
3. What relationship does a dogma have with our spiritual life?
4. List three ways in which the Church deepens and perfects her faith as found in the Catechism.
5. True or False: The Magisterium of the Church is not necessary for our salvation. Why?

B. Time for Meditation – Spend a few minutes reflecting upon what you have learned and what God might be trying to direct you to do. List a few of them below.

Step Four: Conclusion of Study
A. Recite the Closing Prayer: See Page 14
B. Finish by making the Sign of The Cross

Week 2, Day 2
Date:

Step One: Preparation for Study
A. Begin by making the Sign of The Cross
B. Recite the Opening Prayer: See Page 14

Step Two: Reading
Read Paragraphs #101 – 108

Step Three: Time for Reflection
A. Reflection Questions:
1. How can we think of the writing of the Sacred Scriptures as an “incarnational” act?
2. What kind of truth does the Sacred Scriptures teach and for what purpose is it given?
3. When were the Sacred Scriptures brought together in one book, the Holy Bible? What “age” do we rely upon for the canon of Sacred Scripture?
4.Who is the primary author of the Sacred Scriptures? What role do the human authors play in the composition of the sacred texts?
5. Is Christianity a religion of the Book like Islam and Judaism? How do they differ from those religions that also possess a sacred text?

B. Time for Meditation – Spend a few minutes reflecting upon what you have learned and what God might be trying to direct you to do. List a few of them below.

Step Four: Conclusion of Study
A. Recite the Closing Prayer: See Page 14
B. Finish by making the Sign of The Cross


Does that whet your appetite?

I knew the Canadian Health Care System cared more for its patients

All I can say is, "I hope I get sick in Saskatoon sometime soon." Canada Agency Buys Starbucks for Hospital. I wonder if they would deliver to my room...

When will the madness end?

Those crazy folks at Angry Alien have struck again. After seeing the original in the theater, this is a marked improvement. I give you Titanic in 30 seconds with bunnies. Enjoy!

First Lady "knocks one out of the park!"
I saw an interview with the First Lady this morning on the Today Show. In discussing the death of President Reagan, the news bimbo mentioned that Nancy Reagan has become an advocate for Alzheimer's research and that her opinion on the use of stem cells to find a cure has differed from the opinion of President Bush. Laura Bush responded that she herself has been an advocate for Alzheimer's research for years, since her own father, who suffered from Alzheimer's, died. She said, "We all want to find a cure" and, quoting roughly, "We have to balance science with moral and ethical concerns over the use of embryonic stem cells. Adult stem cells do exist for this research. We all want to find a cure."

First Lady 1
News Bimbo 0

Wait! Does this mean the Pope does have an army?

More lovely information to confound the modern media. Pope Pius XII, pray for us.

Strong enough for a woman; unsafe for chimps

Here's a big "secret" (get it?...read the title again). Contraceptives are harmful. I am so pleased to see research starting to come together. Here's my noodle scratcher for the day. Even after all the horrible effects of contraceptives come to light, will this lead people to stop using them?

(Via Alicia of Fructus Ventris)

Communion with Christ
I have been pastor for just a bit more than a month now. It has been very exciting and, in some cases, rather frustrating. Sort of like life, huh? In my pastoral field I can already see that I will need to make a public statement (perhaps by letter to the parish or my pastor's column in the bulletin) about what it means to be in communion with Christ. No, I'm not dealing with pro-abort politicians here. This is much farther down the chain of subsidiarity. I have encountered serious misunderstandings about communion with Christ through a few fevered attempts to force my hand in approving certain persons for the role of godparent, when in fact the persons in question are not eligible for the role. In addition to some teaching about the godparent's role, I need to state some of the particulars of a Catholic's full communion with Christ.

(1) Ecclesial communion: Christ does not call followers in isolation. He calls disciples to be his followers, and not his "autocephalous" followers, but followers in a band of followers. From the very beginning of Christ's public ministry, we find him gathering followers in a group, including his most intimate band, the Apostles. He established his Church to continue this work of gathering the harvest. Especially for us who live so many ages after Christ, we do not and cannot hear the message and call of Christ if not for the preaching of his band, the Church. Scripture teaches us that this band of followers is indeed Christ's Body. Therefore communion with Christ is not an isolated, "Me and Jesus" affair. Communion with Christ is necessarily wrapped up with communion with his Church. One who rejects the Church is not in full communion with Christ.

(2) Doctrinal communion: There must be a communion of faith if one is truly in communion with Christ. Christ teaches us in Scripture, and the Church, guided by his Spirit of Truth, continues to teach and explain revealed Truth to disciples and to the whole world. Jesus says to his first followers, "He who hears you hears me, and he who rejects you rejects me, and he who rejects me rejects him who sent me" (Lk. 10:16). This can be so because Jesus' Church is guided by his own Spirit Who takes from what is Christ's and hands it on to the Church (cf. Jn. 16:12-15). This guarantee of authenticity for the Church's teaching is not based on the human merits of those who occupy the office of teacher. Thus, communion with Christ is effected by communion with Christ's teaching as found in Scripture, but also by communion with Christ's teaching as found in his Church. One who does not profess Catholic Faith is not in full communion with Christ.

(3) Moral communion: Communion with Christ can also be seen, perhaps most visibly, by the style of one's life. There is a moral component to communion with Christ. One could be seen in the gathering of Christ's Church (say, at Holy Mass) and one could claim the same confession of Catholic Faith, but how one lives speaks volumes about the authenticity of the other hallmarks of communion. If one is not living in accord with Christian morality, one is not in full communion with Christ.

When there is a deficiency in any or all of these hallmarks, full communion with Christ does not exist. When such deficiency is a matter of public knowledge, one can also be publicly excluded from full communion, most especially the visible participation of reception of Holy Communion.

I have already encountered some surprise from someone who is cohabiting when I refuse to allow that person to serve as a godparent. I have even heard from that person's family. "But," the argument goes, "we have been members here for such-and-such number of years, we come to Mass, we are registered here, and have always been Catholic..." In other words, they have a mistaken notion that communion is based almost exclusively on whether a person is seen at Mass, or whether somewhere in their past the Church means something to them, or whether the Parish Office knows their mailing address. Mere attendance at Mass, as important as attendance at Mass is, is not the litmus test for full communion. In the case that prompted these thoughts, the moral aspect is missing. The person thinks that, despite the cohabitation, as long as a marriage hasn't taken place outside of the Church, it is all okay. I have to inform the person that a marriage contrary to the laws of the Church would indeed be a problem, but so is cohabiting outside of marriage. Both are public moral matters that demonstrate a person is not in full communion with Christ. Therefore, such a person is in no way eligible to serve as a godparent for another soul, taking on the responsibility of imparting the very spiritual life the person himself is not living.

To put in bluntly, and in natural or physical parental terms (as an analogy for a godparent), if you don't have certain functioning equipment, you can't impart physical life. Likewise, imparting spiritual life by service as a godparent requires the full package of communion with Christ, the giver of that spiritual life.

I knew this was coming
I have been waiting for these words: The Holy Father's telegram to Mrs. Reagan on the death of her husband.

'Tis a pity: Part II
This post has nothing to do with Fr. Tharp's previous one of the same title. However, the title fits my post too. I just saw something on the news that caught my eye. It is a seemingly small matter, but, then again, if it is so small and simple, why isn't it obvious? I really hope there is a simple explanation for this that I am overlooking. I don't want to make fun of someone nor harp on something that may have been a one time mistake, but here we go...

I just saw footage of the Governor of California paying respects to President Ronald Reagan. The footage showed the Governor making the sign of the Cross. I was delighted as I saw him begin to make the sign. But immediately, my expectations were dashed. After touching his forehead and chest, he then moved to his right shoulder first, followed by the left. Perhaps he hails from an Eastern Catholic Rite. But if not, why can't an adult Latin Rite Catholic AT LEAST know how to make the sign of the Cross?

Lord, help us!

If we only followed our own advice....But then again if we did, there wouldn't be much point for you to read this blog.
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What Do Fidel Castro, Greg Palast, and Chris Hitchens have in common?

They are the deplorable masters of bad taste and political saber rattling all for the comfort of their egos. I am sooooo glad that these men and the media outlets they represent finally are here to remind me of how terrible Reagan really was. I am sooooo happy that two foreigners can inform me of the failures of a former president. By the way, Mr. Castro, how goes the systematic refusal of religious and political freedoms to the people you govern? I know that finding salvation in a political power is wrong; I hope these guys figure it out as well.

'Tis a Pity

Well, I have been meaning to mention this for the last several days, but I received word back from Ignatius Press. They have turned down the Borromeo Project. Frankly, I am not surprised by this as I know they tried to make a foray into adult formation curriculum that didn't pan out. I must admit that at least the rejection letter was hand-signed and not terribly impersonal. On a past occasion, I received a rejection letter from another publisher where you could clearly see the imprint of the rubber stamp used to emboss the signature. On a side note, I did receive an email from someone at the Press who thought that the project is a good idea, but that they were not the publishers. I can understand that. Once bitten, twice shy.

Now, you may be asking yourself, "If you suspected, Father, that they would say "no", then why did you even send it to them?" I sent it to Ignatius because I respect and appreciate the work they do. If you were to examine my shelves, you would find that a great number of my books are from IP. The works they have published have been very influential in my life and my formation as a priest. As a matter of fact, when I see a book is published by Ignatius, I take it as a stamp of orthodoxy. So, I wanted the BP to be part of that stable of most excellent works. Is that so wrong?

Thank you for all your prayers during these last two months while I waited to hear back. I think that I will farm this out to Our Sunday Visitor or Liturgical Training Publications. Before you flood my comments box, the person from Ignatius mentioned that Cardinal George was looking for a way to turn around LTP and that the BP might be a good way to start that. If only I had some sense of how involved he was with LTP's editorial board...

Solemnity of the Holy Trinity, Year C




There is actually an overlap between the commemoration of D-Day's 60th anniversary and the Solemnity of the Holy Trinity. When I think about what those brave soldiers did on that day, braving death diving out of airplanes, offering themselves up on the altars of the foreign shores of Normandy, staggering through the hedgerows which impeded everything they were told to do, I can think of only one motive. That motive is love. Even those German forces who had the living tar pounded out of them, I suspect the motive was the same. In the German forces, a large part of the enlisted infantry were conscripted Poles, Romanians, and other folks the Germans had run rough-shod over. They knew to flee meant a bullet in the back from their commanders, but all they wanted to do was go home and be free. So, pushed from the front and pinned from the back, these men opposed our fighting men, but I don't think it was happily, and I am more than certain that they did not endorse what the higher-ups of the Nazi government were up to.

The Trinity is the same way. The inner economy of their existence is translated into their external economy of action in the world. So, Creation becomes an expression of the Father's desire to love another and to show His care and solicitude for it. The Son's redemptive death is love poured out for us. The Spirit's sanctification is love rebuilding the one redeemed to be the image of the love that saved Humanity. In short, the Love which binds the Trinity together is not just for the three persons to share; it leaves a thumb print on everything it touches. That's why I particularly like this version of the Trinity rendered by El Greco.

The crossover extends to us as well. If we have been redeemed, then we are remade in the image of the Son, restored to the image and likeness of God, and therefore must live in the world as a participant in the life of the Trinity. In Heaven, the beatific vision will be unveiled before our "eyes". For now, in this life, the vision peeks through the edges of reality, making itself felt and known even now. But just as the Trinity and the soldiers of D-Day share in works exemplified by love, we know this life to be a trying battlefield. Oh, I know, the poet would have us overlook this, but the battle remains. We must strive against our foes (our sins, our vices, and our Ancient Enemy) and fight in the hard scrabble soil of our souls. In this day and age, we need not just the Theological and Moral Virtues to live the Christian Faith. We must have courage if we are live in the light of the Holy Trinity.

Papal Ally Dead
Rest in Peace, Ronald.

This is how we communicate with each other at Catholic Ragemonkey:

Finally the recognition we deserve!
Actually no, but this story's title is too strange a coincidence not to take note of it. CRM For Consumer Goods This reminds me. Have you picked up your Ragemonkey merchandise? Remember all proceeds go to support Rachel's Vineyard and Catholic Answers.

Clay Aiken Launches Solo Tour This Summer

Hey, this would be a great ordination anniversary gift for Fr. Hamilton whose fifth anniversary is coming up soon. I am sure he would appreciate it deeply.

Techmonkey Dave here.

Fr. Hamilton and Fr. Tharp visited the Daveshack tonight after the ordination mass. Snacks were eaten, Guiness was quaffed, jokes were cracked. A good time was had by all, and we will soon have photographic proof that there are indeed two Ragemonkeys.

Truly beautiful...
I have just read the words of President Bush to Pope John Paul II, in particular the words inscribed on the Presidential Medal of Freedom, which the President bestowed upon the Pope today. The words are truly beautiful. May more people recognize the truth of the words accompanying this honor given to the Pope!

So Long and Thanks for All the Fish

Tonight, the Archbishop will ordain two men to the priesthood of Jesus Christ. Their names are Rev. Mr. Kirk Larkin and Rev. Mr. Rex Arnold. If you think of it, please pray for them today and in the weeks to come.

I am headed out the door so that I can speed down to the city for the festivities, plus go to confession and do some banking. So, this is it for today. Talk to you tomorrow.

OUCH!
I don't know how it happened; but it did. It has been another one of those nights in the parish. I couldn't manage to get dinner in at the dinner hour because I was tied up with a visitor. Then I had a Pastoral Council meeting that lasted almost two hours. Another late dinner. Somehow I managed to "nasal" a bite of a homemade tamale lathered in hot sauce. Yes, it is quite uncomfortable!

Definitely a new take on an old story

Somewhere in journalistic lore, an editor is reported as having said to a cub reporter, "'Dog bites man' isn't news; 'Man bites dog' is" Well how about "Dog Ate Man"? Is that story enough for you, Mr. Editor?

Kickin'!

Not that he is in it for the awards and acolades, but this just rules the roost. JP II, we love you! If I can find the Holy Father's email address, I think I will send a not of congratulations.

The Apologetics Lecture

So, as most of you all know, I gave a presentation on apologetics at Epiphany of the Lord parish in Oklahoma City on Tuesday night. It was well attended I thought; about 40 people in attendance, and lots of young couples with small charming children. The lecture took about 1.5 hours and I think it was well received. I tend to put a lot of humor into my presentations because a.) it snaps people out of the torpor my voice creates and b.) lowers defensive reactions when I suggest something challenging.

A particularly funny moment took place when I was explaining how we didn't worship statues. I have an autographed picture of Roxann Dawson which I brought to the presentation. Now, I pulled out the picture and explained to everyone who she is and how I came by the picture. Then I said, "Now, do you think that every night I go to this picture and say, 'Oh, Roxann Dawson, you are so lovely..'' while I kissed the photo and stroked the top of the frame. A few hands went up, but I have their addresses, so I would make sure the doors are locked...You know who you are. I went on to explain, that the picture serves as a reminder of the friendship with the person who got it for me.

I think it was an okay presentation. The problem for me was the submitted question were too random, too all over the map to make a cohesive attack plan. I had a problem with only one person who claimed that he could be both a universalist and a Catholic at the same time. As I tried to continue the discussion, I realized that his enchilada might not be wrapped tightly, and abandoned the cause. But I did strongly suggest that he needs to make sure he understands the Church's teachings before abandoning them. The capper came when he said he was going down to Belize soon to do a mission trip and was suggesting that in the name of the Church he could teach this universalist religion in its place. I almost went "Ehud, the left handed warrior" on his carcass.

Another cheering factor came in that many people bought some of the book I brought. I think I brought about $250.00 worth and sold about $110.00. Hopefully those will serve as the springboard for those people.

While enjoy going out and doing these talks, I really find them draining and a little disheartening. I am someone who is moved by argumentation and logical chains. When someone makes a good argument, it sparks connections all over my brain. In short, it excites me, and usually I can see that excitement in people's eyes and reactions. But when a group doesn't exactly click, and that is largely my fault because I am the one leading this little expedition, I feel as though I have been counter productive at best. I assume that people hear the presentation and think, "well, if that is the best the Church has to offer, there must not be much to it."

I guess what the real problem is, I want an immediate reaction. I want someone to come up and say, "Father, because of you, I want to be the best lay apologist out there." I know well though that that is not exactly how God works in most cases. Usually it is something that has to percolate under the surface and eventually, all things being equal, a person responds.

So, do me a favor, gentle reader. Pray for those who attended the lecture, especially the one Protestant who was probably brought by his parents who are Catholic. He seemed interested and perhaps could be lead back around. Pray that my stupidity didn't misdirect any one there.

It's Worse Than I Thought

It all started as an innocent joke. I wanted to inspire Fr. H to step forth from the gloomy shade of his clerical Batcave and rejoin the blogging world. I thought it would be funny to see his reaction to the claims that I am both bloggers. But, as they say in grade schools, it's all fun and games until someone loses an eye. What has happened to this blog is much worse than a little poke in the eye.

Apparently, scholars at various theological seminaries and universities have been following Catholic Ragemonkey as a form of watching Revelation continue to be played out. They had the good taste not to assume that what is written here is new Revelation, but more of an act of theological fisking. Anyhow, my post concerning the non-existence of Fr. Hamilton has thrown the group into confusion. They are asking, "How can we know that the posts marked "Fr. S.T." represent a truthful communication?" These wise scholars have decided to form a seminar to study our writings.

The scholars have named their effort "The Ragemonkey Seminar." They propose to read everything we have written and then color code the statements in order of rank based on how likely it is we have said it or if it is a case of the community we speak to interpreting and interjecting into our work some form of false theological extrapolations.

For example, one of the first articles they are working on concerns authentic Fr. Hamilton writing, referred to as "the H source." Then they want to compare word choices and context of the writings of mine, aka "the T source" and see if there is any overlap that would suggest duplicative authorship. Also, there seems to be a contention that all of this comes from an unknown source, a "Q source" if you will, that provides all the content but uses a priestly identity to hide himself and lend credence to the ideas he is proposing. This is similar to the theory behind the letters of disputed Pauline authorship. But I digress.

So, it turns out, that by casing doubt upon the existence of one Ragemonkey, I have doomed us both.

P.S. If you don't find this funny, there are two reasons for this. One, I am not that bright and I don't write comedy all that well. Two, you have never had to sit through a boring lecture on theoretical conjectures concerning the origin of the Gospels.

Cole Porter as Pro-Life Fisking

Only the unstoppable Mark Shea could give us this analysis of why Senator Durbin is a twit!

BLOGITO, ERGO SUM!
Thanks to Karen's comment on my last post, I was prompted to make the above post title. Actually, my earlier remark about Fr. Tharp's deception leading us into Cartesian universal doubt, was not so much a claim that Descartes' method could prove I am my own blogger, but that it will lead us all into Descartes' trap of universal doubt, thus making any argumentation on this blog by supposedly distinct persons futile, as it moves us more deeply into the anthropomorphic turn that mistakenly places man at the center of all being. In the end, all of this will implode and come crashing down. Perhaps the blog will be destroyed because of this latest Machiavellian event in the twisted system that is "Tharpomachean ethics". And Fr. Tharp will be left to sift the wreckage through his empty hands, watching the dust fall between his fingers like an hourglass mercilessly telling that the end is near, as he hopelessly cries out, "What have I done, what have I done.....?!

OH, the tangled web we weave..."
Well, I guess Fr. Tharp knows how to pull me out of seclusion. I couldn't believe it when I read his post claiming that he simply co-opted my name so the blog would appear to be written by multiple bloggers. I was alerted to some strange goings on when I called Fr. Tharp this evening and the moment he heard my voice, he erupted in uncontrollable laughter. It didn't take me long to realize he had probably done something on the blog. Luckily, I was using a cordless phone, which allowed me to go immediately to my computer, call up the blog and see his outrageous post, full of lies, all the while claiming to finally be telling the truth.

Folks, don't believe Fr. Tharp's latest stunt. Remember, I have posted photos of myself here. Photos of Fr. Tharp have also been available. Unless, Fr. Tharp has multiple personality disorder, you can clearly see two distinct styles of blogging from our posts. If the style doesn't convince you, can you possibly believe that someone whose posts are routinely riddled with typographical errors as Fr. Tharp's, could then manage to create the posts that I create? Of course, I realize my attempts to establish my unique personhood as a blogger will be futile. Some of you will go on believing Fr. Tharp's lies. I predict this charade of Fr. Tharp's will quickly find us in the thick of Cartesian universal doubt. Way to go, and thanks Fr. Tharp! Already, someone has suggested in the comments box that it is really Techmonkey Dave who blogs under the names of both priests. When will all of this nonsense end? Where will this deception take us?

It is true, I have been rather silent of late. The new pastor role has kept me plenty busy. But I am alive. I am a real priest of this archdiocese and I am my own blogger.

The Truth Comes Out!

Tracy asked in the comments area: "Sorry to change the subject Father, but I've been gone for a while...where is Father Hamilton? Why hasn't he been blogging?" Well, I have a confession to make. There is no Fr. Hamilton. I mean, yes, there is a priest of the archdiocese named Fr. Stephen Hamilton, but I only lifted the name and likeness. It's been me all along.

I saw the success of multi-person blogs. I was weak and corruptible; I fell in love with the need for constant attention. So I reasoned, "two priests are better than one" if that's what I wanted.

I am ready to step out of the darkness and admit the dark secret. It's all me.

When Biblical Literalism Takes a Terrible Toll...

or you can think of it as the most profound outburst of irony from Philadelphia to date. Find out what this whole new take on their name is.

We may get a Catholic President after All!

I am not sure what to make of this photo op, but it does suggest one thing: Pray for the conversion of the Bush Family through the intercession of St. James. Check the AP Photo for more information. It seems that this might be the only way to get a Catholic President for the U.S.

That's It For Today

Okay, folks, you are on your own. I am headed to OKC to give that talk on Apologetics that I mentioned. It is open to the public so if you are in the area, stop by. It will be at Epiphany Parish at 7:00 p.m. in Room 3. I took someone's advice and will have some books (none mine) for sale just to get the people started. Pray that I can get these people wound up about their Faith! It helps that it is the feast of St. Justin Martyr and Apologist.

Au Contrere, Mon Frere!

In this time of renewed episcopal spinal fortitude, these stories coming out of Chicago and Michigan make me proud to be a Catholic. The story is reported here. Beyond the issue of living a lifestyle that is not in conformity with the Gospel, there is another good reason to deny any sort of activist or politician Holy Communion under these circumstances. The reason, I think can be safely inferred with no loss of charity or clarity, for their communion is not union with Christ. They are receiving communion to make a point. How do I know? Well, why else would you advertise that you going to try this stunt and then wear a costume to tell everyone who sees it, "hey, we're taking part"? In this instance, the point is "I can be GAY and Catholic, and look, God didn't strike me down on the spot. So homosexuality isn't all that bad, is it?" Thankfully, the Final Judgment will sort out these details. For the interim, there is the hope that mercy will touch these people and lead to repentance from the wrong done.

What I especially enjoyed was the notion that it was wrong to bar people from Holy Communion. Holy Communion is a privilege and not a right. One must be properly disposed to receive the sacrament and living a homosexual lifestyle is not the way to do that. You could also look to Jesus's insistence in John 6 that people accept the whole mystery of the Eucharist without trivializing and whitewashing the reality of what they are to receive. Also, St. Paul in his letter to the Corinthians reminds them that those who eat and drink unworthily are bringing down condemnation on themselves. So, in the end, when a Bishop declares a person excommunicated either because of their public actions or membership in a particular group, he is actually doing them a favor.

Another Interesting Appointment

Today, the Vatican announced that the Bishop of Patterson, N.J. has stepped down, and a replacement has already been named. His Excellency, Frank Joseph Rodimer, has retired and has been replaced by His Excellency, Arthur Joseph Serratelli, from the diocese of Newark where he served as auxiliary. Here's the bulletin in Italian for all interested parties.

What intrigues me is the speed of some assignments over others. For example, in the case of Patterson, it was instantaneous. For Wichita, they are still waiting to hear anything. Could it be that the speed of new appointment directly correlates to the degree of disaster the predecessor made of the place? We will see...

Not necessarily a bad idea

Can someone explain to me the hostility for the draft in this country? Throughout Europe, it is very common for young men and women to take part in compulsory military service. Specifically, I am thinking of the U.K. and Italy. I think that Germany still has it as well. The more I think on it, it might do the U.S. some good to have some sort of service like these countries. Oh, well, any input would be profitable.

Point

The logic begins, "We should be able to control our fertility and decide that every child is a wanted child." So instead of heeding the body's natural design, women are encouraged to pump their bodies full of hormones. Then, when the oral contraceptive fails, and the woman becomes pregnant, these women are told, "Well, it's just a blob of tissue. It won't matter what you do to it." So the woman is conjoled into an abortion, by well-meaning and not-so well-meaning forces in society. But what happens if these two lines are melded? Then you get this:The Quest for Perfect Babies.

If you aren't convinced that our culture is writhing and heaving its last death throws, then you need to lay off the Dramamine and look around.

Counter-point

One of the factors sure to change the U.S. is the constant immigration of Hispanics, mostly Mexicans, onto our shores. It will change us because they will be the first mostly homogeneous ethnic group to come in the States, in a large group. Previous immigration waves were mixed Europeans. This influx of Hispanics should also prove a challenge to our dominant culture of pampered white Protestant European culture. It will be of great interest to see if Catholicism can find greater coverage in the public square because of this immigration.

After reading the post about selective abortion, consider if more Hispanic women could teach Anglo women to love their unborn children this much. This might be an old story, but it is still makes a valuable point. No greater love has this than to lay down one's life for one's friends or one's children.

The only caveat comes at the end. While the force of one culture can force another culture to adapt, there will be those that are swept out of their camp and into the other. The last sentence of the article points to this. While Ramirez certainly understood the value of the life she carried in her womb, she has listened to American culture and found "other ways" to deal with this matter in the future. (Thanks to Fr. H for catching the end of the article, which somehow, in my fevered blogging, I missed.)

Pentecost 2004: The Wave that Changes Everything in its Path

One night in Bangkok and corpses gets picked clean

When I think of Bangkok, I don't think of being eaten by small fish. But apparently, it's a concern. Thai Police Warn of Piranhas in Bangkok

Theology on Tap

Yes, that's exactly what I wanted to be associated with, a keg of beer. Actually, it is the effort of one of our dedicated reporters for the diocesan newspaper for her parish in OKC. Specifically, she has taken it upon herself (Bravo! to Cara) to create some programming for young adults. I will be speaking on Tuesday night on Apologetics, what is it, and answering some specific questions and issues. Here is the list that I received as preparation for the talk. They want to know:
*Baptism- Why we do not completely submerge people being baptized?
*Why do we worship Mary and the Saints? (We don't and if you are, you better stop. This makes God mighty peeved...)
*Why do we pray to statues? (Ah, we don't. What are they doing at this parish?)
*Why do we need prayer beads to pray? (Because you have a body)
*Why do we use incenses? ( That's a long story but it has to do with the Exodus in part)
*What about the bells during Mass? (There's more to this than waking up the crowd I'll tell you what)
*Why do we believe the Pope is infallible? What is that concept?
(It's both startling and pretty modest)

It looks to be fun. Will post results of my efforts later. I also love the irony of the talk taking place on the feast of St. Justin Martyr.

Dude, I was napping...?!

A rather miraculous story all in all. I would be interested in finding out if there were any long term medical effects noted. Boy starts breathing as he's prepared for funeral

Let the Springtime Bloom

Once again, Peter has to stregthen the resolve of his brothers. I love the fact that this elderly man has yet to forget what his task is. I hope the bishops will act in a responsive way to this plea.Read more about it here:Yahoo! News - Pope Worries About 'Soulless' U.S. Life

Please note folks, we want to appeal [i.e. make a compelling case to/for] youth not be appealing [i.e. water down the faith so that we can sing ditties around the altar during Mass].

Jayd Neely (now Br. Joseph, I think) on the day of his vesting as a Carmelite Brother
Posted by Hello

This is my first effort at Photoblogging. I am still pretty new to it, but it is a free feature of Blogger, so exploit it, kids!

What a Novelty!

Here's a crazy notion. Actually teach kids to practice and understand what the content of the Faith is and they will react positively. I am giving all the credit to reversion 2.0: catholic immersion schools for finding this. It sounds like reversion's author and my sister would get along fine. They are products of the same catechetical environment, and it always fascinates me when I go over to my sister's house (or "crib" so Fr. H can expand his hip-hop vocab) and we can get into a long, free-wheeling discussion of some element of the Faith based on a throw away comment from a seminary text book. And why does this conversation happen? In her words, "we were never taught this."

I would suggest too going to the NPR site and listening to the actual story. Try to hold back the gag reflex though. I have found the on air reporters are the epitome of snide condescension.

To finally say "no"

When sin becomes such a part of one's life, it can be like a drug. It can distort your perceptions so that you will never turn it out of the room it has made in your inmost self. But one day, you wake up and say "no." You realize that this can't work anymore. And then begins the real darkness, navigating a world you never thought could exist. It would be like waking up one day on the surface of Venus.

With this in mind, slide over to Scattered Words: homosexuality and the ex-gay movement and give this guy some support. The posts are brutal and frank and unflinching. If he gets the chance to read this post, I want him to know that I am praying for him and for his continued conversion.

How Heavy Rests the Miter

In Church history, there are lots of times, sad to say, when various clerics of the Church don't let their ontology show through. One can think back to Arian heresy when many bishops defected from the normative Faith to follow a substitute. Or, recall the flap in England over Henry VIII's claims to be head of the Church. Only one bishop didn't sign off on this proposition, St. John Fisher. The rest did and who remembers them? And there are several other notable events as well.

I bring this up because it is my firm belief that this is where the Church in the United States is headed. It is going to come down to a decision to either hold to the whole (the basic meaning of the word "catholic" i.e. according to the whole) or fake it and become the American Catholic Church and follow the trail currently being blazed by the Episcopalians. Here's a case in point that I found (okay, stole from Mark Shea's comments box) that illustrates what the fight might look like. Would Cardinal George deny Holy Communion to Bishop Pilla?

The story also makes me glad to be in the archdiocese of Oklahoma City.

More on Cardinal Law

I have been interested to see how many bloggers reacted to the appointment of Cardinal Law as the archpriest of St. Mary Major in Rome. What has interested me is how like CNN and others the comments have sounded. Now, what is about to follow is not to minimize the ineptitude of Cardinal Law in the matters of Boston, not only the clerical sex abuse scandal, but also the generally lackluster way the Faith was practiced in the Archdiocese. On the second point, I have no first hand encounters with this, but is gathered from those on the scene. So scream at them and not at me.

1. Forgiveness must always be operative. Even the person of Cardinal Law, if he is contrite and seeks to make amends, can receive forgiveness. Many people feel as though that is a cop-out. "He must pay," the cries resound, but ask yourself, how can he repay all the harm he has done? Will his being sent to prison restore the broken children? Will he being personally sued and being forced to pay up bring vigor to the life of the diocese? No on both. He will have to work out these "repayments" in penance and sacrifice and it will be very hard for us to see. I would suspect that if he paraded his contrition in the streets, no one would take it seriously anyway, so why do it? I think, I suspect, that why this bothers people so is it demonstrates the reality of forgiveness. However it happened, if he went to the Holy Father for confession or to his personal confessor, he now is returned to the work of the Church, albeit in a lesser light.
For more and better wisdom on this point, cf. Mark Shea's recent post.

2. This is not such a cushy position. The hew and cry has been that this is a big, cushy job. Ah, not quite. It is a ceremonial position and that's it. He gets to dress up for various functions at the basilica. For those who want to see more of a punishing assignment, ask yourself this question. Would you want him in charge of another diocese? Perhaps yours? In the end, the man remains in disgrace, going from the head of one of the largest and most venerable dioceses in the U.S. to the titular king of a basilica. No matter how ancient and magnificent it is (it's my favorite of the patriarchal basilicas), it is still a major demotion.
For more and better information, cf. Fr. Johansen's recent post.

We could only be so lucky...

Yahoo! News - Radcliffe Suspects Potter Will Die

Father SMASH!

Courtesy of Jake, this image apparently made him think of me. I don't know why. Most people like me...except when I get angry. You wouldn't like me, when I'm angry.

It's too bad we don't have propritary rights for this otherwise it would end up on one of our t-shirts.

Back to Work

It looks like Cardinal Law has been given a new assignment. As long as there is no heavy lifting, he should do just fine.

Habemus Librum!

For those who are interested, the new book selection is posted at A Dusty, Sunny Corner. It's a seasonal tribute read that I think everyone will enjoy.

It's all in the words you choose.

Politics is both the art of the possible and the art of re-framing discussions by changing language. The Abortion debate often revolves around "blobs of tissue" and the "termination of pregnancy." It makes it sound all the sweeter or at least, non threatening. American Sign Language cannot mess around with such delicacy.

Thanks to Edge of the Precipe for this link. Look on the ASL Browser and scroll down to the word "abortion." The movie will show how the sign word is performed. I wonder if this is why we never see a deaf interpreter, translating these debates. People would immediately understand what was happening in an abortion. Reach in and throw it away.

"The wolf shall dwell with the lamb..."
This description of the order and peace of God's holy mountain (Is. 11) is an apt image of my brief halting of hostilities toward Fr. Tharp even though the fatwa remains (following his placing my head on that dancing figure). Why call off the campaign against Fr. Tharp? Because today is his anniversary of ordination. It was four years ago today that the hands of the Most Reverend Eusebius J. Beltran, a successor of the apostles and Metropolitan Archbishop of Oklahoma City, consecrated Fr. Tharp a priest forever! Congratulations, Fr. Tharp, faithful priest, valued brother, man of vision, and alpha-male ragemonkey!

Again, I remind readers that Fr. Tharp's ordination took place the year AFTER mine. That's AFTER! That makes him my junior by ordination year.

Ways to Spruce Up EWTN

Not that the place needs that much sprucing up, but some new and different programming might be good. Here are my two ideas. First, I could host a cooking show called "Feast of Faith." It could be all about the food traditions of the Catholic Church. During the show, I could interview folks about the various traditions and then prepare something in the kitchen. Second, I could host a game show where all the questions are about various dimensions of the faith. I don't have a snappy name yet.

Do you think they would go for it?

I will volunteer, if you will just get the gun out of my face!

When I initially saw the headline, my gut clinched. Glad to see it was a different kind of pride. Clint Eastwood Is Spokesman for Take Pride

The Significance of Dates

As a Christian, I don't believe in things like fate or destiny, but I do believe that God arranges things to fit the plan of salvation. That's better known as providence. I was reflecting once on how you can get a shape of someone's life by looking at the dates of significant occurances.

For example, today is the fourth anniversary of my ordination to the Priesthood. When I discovered the convergent dates, I was most pleased. I remember one of my seminary professors saying of this date, "He's a good friend to priests and he suits you." As I read more on St. Philip, there is a certain truthfulness to my priest friend's observation. More to the point, because this saint comes up on the calendar, he serves as a reminder. When the date is bare, it is harder, in my opinion, to get fired-up or attached to the date. When you have a saint to compare notes against, you know how much you need to be converted again to the Gospel.

It's a bad sign

It's a bad sign when one can say that the Christian faith is better practiced in the U.S. than in Europe. The squabbling over the EU constitution gives a perfect example. See here.

I'm such a vulture!
The ink on the press release of the closing of several parishes in the Archdiocese of Boston isn't even dry yet and I have already called the Boston Chancery inquiring about purchasing stained glass from closed parishes. You see, my parish is St. Peter and my ears perked up when I heard that a St. Peter parish in Boston will be closing. If it is affordable (it will have to be VERY affordable) and would make my church more beautiful, I want to dream about utilizing it in some way. We shall see...

Updates!

I have some updates for those who read "A Dusty, Sunny Corner" and "Apologize and Don't Be Sorry."

First, due to my vacation, we won't be discussing The Second Coming any further. A new book will start in June and I will post information about it today. Go there now.

Second, I added an observation to my post on Contraception that will be at turns Orwellian and Swiftian. See it now at Apologize and Don't Be Sorry.

May 26th, The Memorial of St. Philip Neri



"There is nothing which gives greater security to our actions, or more effectively cuts the snares the devil lays for us, than to follow another person's will, rather than our own, in doing good...When the devil has failed in making man fall, he puts forward all his energies to create distrust between the penitent and the confessor, and so little by little he gains his end at last...Obedience is the true holocaust which we sacrifice to God on the altar of our hearts... The good works which we do of our own will are not so meritorious as those that are done under obedience... When tribulations, infirmities, and contradictions come, we must not run away in a fright, but vanquish them like men. It is not enough to see that God wishes the good we aim at, but that he wishes it through our instumentality, in our manner and in our time; and we may come to discern all this by true obedience."
From If God Be With Us: The Maxims of St. Philip Neri, Fr. F. Faber, ed., Gracewing, U.K.

It's for stuff like this that I subscribe to Magnificat.

Holding out for a hero!

Just when folks thought that Bishop Olmstead, future Cardinal Archbishop of L.A., was going soft on us, it looks like the media got it wrong. SHOCK!

Read here. It will make you feel good to be a Catholic.

It has huge pointy teeth!

This occurs while a theatrical release of "Holy Grail" is being planned. I smell synergy...

Color me confused.

I don't see the need for this station. After all, isn't MTV pro-homosexual all the time anyway? What will set this apart? Never-ending loop of Culture Club's "Do You Really Want to Hurt Me?" playing? Perhaps, the theme from the "Crying Game" is just a bit obvious.

The Long Last Hurdle

For those who love and respect Fr. Benedict Groeschel, I want to give you some good news. He's home. He's out of the nursing center and back at the retreat house. Praise God.

For those living under a rock for the last year, Fr. Benedict was involved in a most serious auto accident, i.e. he got hit by a car. He was very near death on several occasions but God didn't want him yet. That has been my persistent fear when I face my death; Heaven won't have me and Hell is afraid I will take over.

You can consult the website for more information. Let us keep him in our prayers in this still difficult time.

For the next two weeks, I am on pins and needles!

Why you ask? Because I received an email from Ignatius Press. They said that I should hear something in the next two weeks. I must admit that doesn't sound promising, but given the state of anxiety I have been under, it will be good to hear one way or the other. And this could be the solution for High School R.E. as well.

Keep praying, folks!

When the world wants to make you cry, rage, clown, rage!

Many grateful thanks to the great Cacciaguiada for helping me satisify my jonesing for Opera. He really gave me more than enough information to get started. If you want to learn more about Opera, go here.

I am glad to see that my instincts to listen to Bryn Terfel in my burgeoning opera quest were well-founded.

New Stuff @ Apologize and Don't Be Sorry

Check out the riffs on Hell.

It's a Small World and it's only 6000 years old!

I meant to mention this earlier on, but never got the choice. Apparently, Fundamentalists are taking a cue from Ned Flanders' PraiseLand. A concerned group has created a creationist themed park. See more about it here.

On a related note, this kind of stuff is what kept me from becoming a Baptist. When someone in my Latin class, who was a Baptist, said that the dinosaur bones found in the earth were placed there by God as a "test of our faith," I knew that I had made the right decision to become a Catholic.

Cool!

For all those properly thrown back, you should sign up for this as soon as possible.

Stupid Blog Tricks

Here's your shot at fame and a mouse pad. David Letterman is accepting submissions for his famous top-ten lists. Let's see if the blogosphere can be to achieve world domination one T.V. show at a time.

Fr. Tharp goes to the source!



The sixth book written, you're nevertheless the first chronologically. You not only describe the creation of Narnia and tell where the White Witch, the lampost and the wardrobe came from, you get to bounce between worlds with the help of Uncle Andrew's weird magic rings.


Find out which Chronicles of Narnia book you are.

The Active Life?

In the religious life, there is a distinction made between the active and the contemplative life. But this is not what they had in mind. I suspect this will elict a phone call ... or a fatwa.

No, Not That?!

I think that the terrorists are getting desparate or dumber.

Searching for the Shrieking Monkey

During a recent Google search, I found someone who linked to our explanation of the name "Ragemonkey" and it had an awesome picture of a shreiking chimpanzee. That would be so cool to feature here. So if you are reading this and you know where it is, email me. NOW!

Update: Found it, Slackers! It was waiting patiently to be rediscovered at conjectures of a guilty seminarian. I believe that the author is an Anglican, but I could be mistaken. He certainly has good taste in art either way you slice it. Here's what the shrieking monkey looks like:



Now, that's a T-shirt I would pay big bucks for.

The Sudden Relevance of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine

Frequent readers of CRM know that I am a major, science-fiction geek. Given this, I have been enjoying the re-runs of DS9 on Spike, and that is the only thing I have enjoyed on Spike. The rest of the channel is drek dedicated to the exploitation of men and women. It exploits men by convincing them that being a pig is acceptable behavior; it exploits women by making them the target of piggish behavior. But that is for another post.

For those unfamiliar with DS9, the story revolves around the liberation of Bajor from the Cardassian Empire and the re-building of Bajor and the restoration of their culture. Starfleet enters into the picture to help defend the people of Bajor. During the occupation of Bajor, the inhabitants opposed the Cardassian presence through acts of civil disobedience and terrorism. And did I mention that slave labor was employed to build both the space station and to process ore from the planet?

It is ironic that this series should come back now as the people of our fair land debate and argue, and some even die, to defend a people and to restore justice -- at least this is the theory in play.

Throughout the history of the Star Trek franchise, various species are meant to represent political or philosophical models. But the question that haunts and troubles me is: are we the Bajorians or the Cardassians? It might be too easy to think of ourselves as Starfleet.

From the Shameless Commerce Divison of Catholic Ragemonkey

This was the evil plot of Techmonkey Dave and Techmonkey Buddy Steph to promote this blog in the real world. Go to The Ragemonkey Store and order your gear. We have T-shirts, coffee mugs, and other fun stuff. Face it; I couldn't stand Ratzinger Fan Club cornerning the market of collectible stuff.

Before you think I am funding my future trips to Europe, all the proceeds will go to support Rachel's Vineyard, both at the National and Local [Oklahoma] level, and Catholic Answers.

Take some time and sample our wares.

What the hell?!
I'm sorry folks. I know that's not the strongest or worst language around. I also know this post's title may startle a few people. But I can say nothing else than what you read above when I read the following in the Sunday edition of The Oklahoman newspaper: "Gay rodeo set for Memorial Day." There actually is an organization called the Oklahoma Gay Rodeo Association, part of the International Gay Rodeo Association. The article says, "The rodeo is one of the largest events in Oklahoma City's gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community." I think this ridiculous event is definitely deserving of a loud, "What the hell?!"

Oh, now THIS is good!
I don't know if I have heard mention of this site before, but I think it will need to be linked from our blog, perhaps in its own "MONKEY LIKE..." section. We'll see.

The Ascension Dissension
Okay, so today, Sunday, is Ascension Thursday, at least it is from this particular ecclesiastical territory. But, it is the Seventh Sunday of Easter for the ecclesiastical Provinces of Boston, Hartford, New York, Newark, Philadelphia, Washington, and the State of Nebraska. And that's just the Catholic Church in the United States. Whatever! I have no idea what goofy things the bishops of other countries have done with this particular feast. (Have I sufficiently betrayed my leaning on this matter?).

Now I don't pretend to even know some of the reasons why the US bishops have agreed to disagree on this solemnity. I've never checked the record of their debate on the matter; I really don't care -- it won't change my thinking on this particular matter (and since this is not a matter requiring the obedience of faith, I can say the above in all honesty while avoiding silly charges of lack of fidelity or, worse, schism). I imagine one of the reasons floated for the transfer of Ascension Thursday to Sunday was that the work force in the modern world is increasingly unable to have the free time needed to attend various Church services and programs during the week. So, I am sure the bishops view it as a pastoral move to transfer the Ascension to Sunday, so that more of the faithful may be exposed to that particular mystery. Those are laudable concerns.

But I disagree with the resulting decisions of the majority of the bishops in the US. In general, I think it is silly to move solemnities around. And of all the solemnities to move, I disagree most vociferously with this move in particular. Scripture is clear that the time from the Resurrection to the Ascension was a period of forty days. Why mess up that timetable? Furthermore, we lose connection with the sense of a novena when the nine day period properly existing between the Ascension and Pentecost is taken from us. In general, the bishops' transferring to Sunday of certain solemnities that fall on weekdays has, I think, weakened the Catholic sensibility toward the sacred progression of time that is not limited only to Sundays and has removed a long-standing distinguishing mark of the Catholic: they go to Church even when it's not Sunday or Wednesday (Imagine!).

I would think the most obvious criticism of the Ascension's transfer would be that there is now a disparity with Sacred Scripture and its accounting of the Ascension happening forty days after the Resurrection. That objection is noted and convincing. However, an objection that comes to my mind today is something that was running about my head as I celebrated Ascension Masses this weekend. As many of you know, the Roman Canon (Eucharistic Prayer I) has certain special forms of the prayer used for certain feasts (Christmas, Holy Thursday, Easter, Epiphany, Pentecost, etc.). The Ascension is one of those feasts with a special form (the 'Communicantes'). That special form of the Roman Canon's Communicantes for the Ascension reads: "In union with the whole Church we celebrate that day when your Son, our Lord, took his place with you and raised our frail human nature to glory" (emphasis mine). (This same comment can also be used with other solemnities that have been transfered, which have a special 'communicantes' form). Now I used the Roman Canon and the special form for all of my Masses this weekend. But as I prayed that, darting about in my head, was the obvious objection that, NO, in fact, WE (in this ecclesiastical Province and many others in the US) ARE NOT in union with the whole Church on this matter's celebration. And there are so many other objections to this silly transfer. It really bugs me.

Only in the Church could a Thursday fall on a Sunday!