Tuesday, January 31, 2006
Sing along with me...
...(to the tune of Clay Aiken's hit, Invisible)
If folks weren't ridiculous, then books like The Da Vinci Code wouldn't sell.
If folks would do research, they'd see the errors plain.
But that's all just too much work, and they would rather avoid that pain,
It's really sad to say, but folks are ridiculous
I guess it's gonna stay that way....Ridiculous.
For those who are wondering, I am not sufficiently moisturized to go on American Idol and present this song to all of the land.
...(to the tune of Clay Aiken's hit, Invisible)
If folks weren't ridiculous, then books like The Da Vinci Code wouldn't sell.
If folks would do research, they'd see the errors plain.
But that's all just too much work, and they would rather avoid that pain,
It's really sad to say, but folks are ridiculous
I guess it's gonna stay that way....Ridiculous.
For those who are wondering, I am not sufficiently moisturized to go on American Idol and present this song to all of the land.
The Fruits of Bringing Up Unpleasant Topics Directly but Carefully
Many of my fellow priests make the claim that you really can't preach about abortion because so many women have had abortions that you run the risk of really hurting the case you want to make. I can accept that observation to a point: railing without compassion for those upon whom abortion is afflicted certainly does that. However, that is not what I do.
Instead I tend to split the homily in two: part one focuses outrage at the society who supports abortion, part two focuses upon those who are harmed by abortion to seek healing and help. In other words, the issue is simple but how it affects people isn't.
Now, for those naysayers who will still disagree I offer this email from someone who has heard this message of mine before. This person writes:
"It reminded me of when I was told by my husband that he wanted me to abort my pregnancy. When I got pregnant, my husband did not want any children. Since I had been told it would be medically impossible for me to have children, my husband was very happy. However, through one of God's miracles, I did become pregnant. When I told Larry I was pregnant, he immediately told me that I was going to have an abortion, and his parents told me the same thing. Of course, I told him I was NOT, so he said he would leave me if I had the baby, which he did. I was married, had both an undergraduate
degree and a masters degree, and a good job. So it was not the same decision that many women face. Not to say it was not a scary thought knowing I would probably have to raise my child by myself, I never even considered having an abortion. However, I know it is a difficult decision for many women who are married and their husbands do not want any more children. I appreciated your pointing out that not all abortions are simply from young unmarried women. My heart goes out to those women who are married like I was, but who unlike me, had to follow their husbands wishes for whatever reason. I simply could not imagine not having my child because she has been such a blessing in my life. She has been a true gift from God. So I just wanted to tell you that I thought your sermon Sunday was a very good. I am glad the church has a group like the Rachel group [Rachel's Vineyard] who helps women and men through the aftermath of a
poor decision to abort an unborn child."
To tell the truth about abortion, that abortion resulting in death of a physicial, psychological and spiritual nature, and to tell the whole truth, that the Church doesn't abandon those who seek Christ and want to be healed, is the key to changing hearts and minds concerning abortion.
Many of my fellow priests make the claim that you really can't preach about abortion because so many women have had abortions that you run the risk of really hurting the case you want to make. I can accept that observation to a point: railing without compassion for those upon whom abortion is afflicted certainly does that. However, that is not what I do.
Instead I tend to split the homily in two: part one focuses outrage at the society who supports abortion, part two focuses upon those who are harmed by abortion to seek healing and help. In other words, the issue is simple but how it affects people isn't.
Now, for those naysayers who will still disagree I offer this email from someone who has heard this message of mine before. This person writes:
"It reminded me of when I was told by my husband that he wanted me to abort my pregnancy. When I got pregnant, my husband did not want any children. Since I had been told it would be medically impossible for me to have children, my husband was very happy. However, through one of God's miracles, I did become pregnant. When I told Larry I was pregnant, he immediately told me that I was going to have an abortion, and his parents told me the same thing. Of course, I told him I was NOT, so he said he would leave me if I had the baby, which he did. I was married, had both an undergraduate
degree and a masters degree, and a good job. So it was not the same decision that many women face. Not to say it was not a scary thought knowing I would probably have to raise my child by myself, I never even considered having an abortion. However, I know it is a difficult decision for many women who are married and their husbands do not want any more children. I appreciated your pointing out that not all abortions are simply from young unmarried women. My heart goes out to those women who are married like I was, but who unlike me, had to follow their husbands wishes for whatever reason. I simply could not imagine not having my child because she has been such a blessing in my life. She has been a true gift from God. So I just wanted to tell you that I thought your sermon Sunday was a very good. I am glad the church has a group like the Rachel group [Rachel's Vineyard] who helps women and men through the aftermath of a
poor decision to abort an unborn child."
To tell the truth about abortion, that abortion resulting in death of a physicial, psychological and spiritual nature, and to tell the whole truth, that the Church doesn't abandon those who seek Christ and want to be healed, is the key to changing hearts and minds concerning abortion.
Another Generation of American Heroes Passes Away
I am awed by the generation that fought the Second World War. My father is one of those as a Navy serviceman aboard the U.S.S. Ticonderoga in the Pacific Theater. For a brief moment, the nation came together because of a common goal in staving off a common threat.
I am further awed by the generation that fought for civil rights in the U.S., especially for African Americans. The priest I was assigned with in my first assigment marched on Selma. While on retreat, Fr. Benedict mentioned his involvement in the civil rights movement. Thus, you never know when or where you will run afoul of commonplace, unsung, unmentioned hero. To Mrs. King, I say, resquiacat in pace.
I would use this opportunity as well to remind all readers about a fight that continues in our own time. Abortion reads in many ways like slavery, prinicipally in the notion that some people are more human than others. Even if R.v.W. were overturned tomorrow, the work would only be beginning. There would be the wounded who need healing to be attended to. There would be the culture which would have to be led to respecting life and to seeing babies as an intimate, indespensible part of conjugal actions.
My father served proudly and somewhat anonymously for freedom. The Kings served and gave their lives for the freedom of the country man. Perhaps, you and I, anonymous heroes in training, might do the same.
I am awed by the generation that fought the Second World War. My father is one of those as a Navy serviceman aboard the U.S.S. Ticonderoga in the Pacific Theater. For a brief moment, the nation came together because of a common goal in staving off a common threat.
I am further awed by the generation that fought for civil rights in the U.S., especially for African Americans. The priest I was assigned with in my first assigment marched on Selma. While on retreat, Fr. Benedict mentioned his involvement in the civil rights movement. Thus, you never know when or where you will run afoul of commonplace, unsung, unmentioned hero. To Mrs. King, I say, resquiacat in pace.
I would use this opportunity as well to remind all readers about a fight that continues in our own time. Abortion reads in many ways like slavery, prinicipally in the notion that some people are more human than others. Even if R.v.W. were overturned tomorrow, the work would only be beginning. There would be the wounded who need healing to be attended to. There would be the culture which would have to be led to respecting life and to seeing babies as an intimate, indespensible part of conjugal actions.
My father served proudly and somewhat anonymously for freedom. The Kings served and gave their lives for the freedom of the country man. Perhaps, you and I, anonymous heroes in training, might do the same.
Eeeeexcellent
For those who are wondering, the reason, in my mind, why a filibuster of this Supreme Court nom would torpedo Democratic hopes in '08 had little to do with abortion; it had everything to do with a sense of fair play which Americans enshrine before all else. If the Republicans had played the card right, the claim could have been made that the Democrats are simply "haters" who can't come up with their own devices and strategies. So Reid and others who said, "NO!" to filibuster had this in mind I suspect.
For those who are wondering, the reason, in my mind, why a filibuster of this Supreme Court nom would torpedo Democratic hopes in '08 had little to do with abortion; it had everything to do with a sense of fair play which Americans enshrine before all else. If the Republicans had played the card right, the claim could have been made that the Democrats are simply "haters" who can't come up with their own devices and strategies. So Reid and others who said, "NO!" to filibuster had this in mind I suspect.
Sunday, January 29, 2006
2006 Catholic Blog Awards
It is that time of year again: to nominate your favorite frothing, simian clerics for various awards because of the news, thoughts, self-reflection, and banter you enjoy here at Catholic Ragemonkey! This one almost slipped under the radar screen as I was just about to turn off my computer (after having done some Sunday evening office work -- a priest's work is never done) and go to the rectory to retire for the evening. But just then I remembered: Hey, when are those Catholic Blog Awards? So, I checked it out and lo and behold, nominations open tomorrow, January 30 and continue through February 3, 2006.
So, nominate away and then don't forget to return to vote during the voting week! The link to the Catholic Blog Awards is above in the title of the post. I am assuming that the link will open to a nomination page once tomorrow begins. If not, you may have to hunt around a bit to make nominations.
It is that time of year again: to nominate your favorite frothing, simian clerics for various awards because of the news, thoughts, self-reflection, and banter you enjoy here at Catholic Ragemonkey! This one almost slipped under the radar screen as I was just about to turn off my computer (after having done some Sunday evening office work -- a priest's work is never done) and go to the rectory to retire for the evening. But just then I remembered: Hey, when are those Catholic Blog Awards? So, I checked it out and lo and behold, nominations open tomorrow, January 30 and continue through February 3, 2006.
So, nominate away and then don't forget to return to vote during the voting week! The link to the Catholic Blog Awards is above in the title of the post. I am assuming that the link will open to a nomination page once tomorrow begins. If not, you may have to hunt around a bit to make nominations.
Friday, January 27, 2006
Oh, please please please somebody get me tickets for this...
Once I hear something firmer, I guess I will have to envoke the power of the Hegemony to arrange a private audience...
Once I hear something firmer, I guess I will have to envoke the power of the Hegemony to arrange a private audience...
Thursday, January 26, 2006
I believe the technical term for this is sour grapes...
...and/or how to torpedo next Democratic Presidential Candidate's bid in advance. Not that I am advocating that (smiles looks innocent thanks to holographic generator on loan from Alexander Luthor).
...and/or how to torpedo next Democratic Presidential Candidate's bid in advance. Not that I am advocating that (smiles looks innocent thanks to holographic generator on loan from Alexander Luthor).
The Assets of Classical Formation
As most readers know, in high school and college, I took Latin. This was before I became Catholic. I wanted to know Latin because it seemed right up my alley. Well, after my conversion and ordination, Latin has served me well over and over in ways I can scarcely count at this remove.
Case in point, while work with the college students last night, I came across a very provocative word in Benedict's new encyclical. In paragraph 5, he describes the relation of body to soul in the Church's thought as "Christian faith, on the other hand, has always considered man a unity in duality, a reality in which spirit and matter compenetrate, and in which each is brought to a new nobility." It's that word, "compenetrate," which caught my eye. It reminded me of the Church's language surrounding the Trinity (circumincessio in the West and perichoresis in the East) which strives to describe how intimate the bond and how complete the bond is between each of the persons of the Trinity. In the English roots, they, body and soul, penetrate with and through each other. In the course of the evening, someone had asked what the original language for the encyclical would be and I explained how Latin is the typical language, etc. But that led me to a curious question. How had the Latin typical edition (the edition from which all translations must take their cues) rendered this word "compenetrate"?
Well, thanks to Boeciana, I found the link to the Latin edition of DCE and looked up the relevant phrase. Then I hopped up and got my dictionary and proceeded to search. Here's the same sentence from paragraph 5 in Latin: "Ex contrario hominem semper iudicavit christiana fides tamquam ens unum et duplex, in quo spiritus et materies mutuo miscentur, dum ita profecto alterutrum novam experitur nobilitatem." (Emphasis added.) I have highlighted two key phrases for understanding what the Holy Father is getting at. First, "ens" refers to the essence of something, what something is in itself versus its "existens" which is how it makes itself known or presents itself. So, the question of man being composed of body and soul is not secondary in the mind of the Church; it is ESSENTIAL to catch the double dimension of our nature. If you don't you run the risk of completely distorting the essence and identity of the human person. Second, the word "compenetrate" in English represents the phrase "mutuo miscentur" from the Latin. This is where it gets interesting. "Mutuo" means mutually or reciprocially with the possible connotations of borrowed or lent. "Miscentur" is the passive form of the verb "miscere" which means to mix or to combine or to unite. That's very telling. Body and soul in the human are brought together by God -- that's why the phrase passive. The person is always on the receiving end of this uniting. The body comes from a unique interaction of love by the parents and a providentially guided interaction of two half-sets of DNA. The soul is a unique creation from God. But the human person is the outcome of the uniting of BOTH! Hence, the person you are is not just simply a soul in a body; the person you are is soul-body/body-soul composite which constitutes the real frontiers of your particular identity. Written into your nature (ens) is the reciprocial union which finds expression in all sorts of ways, good and bad (existens). But to long to be without a body is to desire the literal sundering of your humanity; you would simply cease to be.
And that takes us to love. If the compenetration of body and soul works this way, then so much eros and agape. Granted that eros needs purifying, it doesn't change the fact that to act as though eros isn't part of the human make-up degrades our humanity. The passion of love (eros) meets in the ecstasy which seeks the ultimate good and the ultimate gift of love, the one who is utterly other (agape), namely God. This love will always reach its perfection in God who is love. It is his nature, his ens, to be love.
Hence, since we are made in the image and likeness of God, the degree to which I cease to love, I cease to be. Frightening prospect, isn't it?
As most readers know, in high school and college, I took Latin. This was before I became Catholic. I wanted to know Latin because it seemed right up my alley. Well, after my conversion and ordination, Latin has served me well over and over in ways I can scarcely count at this remove.
Case in point, while work with the college students last night, I came across a very provocative word in Benedict's new encyclical. In paragraph 5, he describes the relation of body to soul in the Church's thought as "Christian faith, on the other hand, has always considered man a unity in duality, a reality in which spirit and matter compenetrate, and in which each is brought to a new nobility." It's that word, "compenetrate," which caught my eye. It reminded me of the Church's language surrounding the Trinity (circumincessio in the West and perichoresis in the East) which strives to describe how intimate the bond and how complete the bond is between each of the persons of the Trinity. In the English roots, they, body and soul, penetrate with and through each other. In the course of the evening, someone had asked what the original language for the encyclical would be and I explained how Latin is the typical language, etc. But that led me to a curious question. How had the Latin typical edition (the edition from which all translations must take their cues) rendered this word "compenetrate"?
Well, thanks to Boeciana, I found the link to the Latin edition of DCE and looked up the relevant phrase. Then I hopped up and got my dictionary and proceeded to search. Here's the same sentence from paragraph 5 in Latin: "Ex contrario hominem semper iudicavit christiana fides tamquam ens unum et duplex, in quo spiritus et materies mutuo miscentur, dum ita profecto alterutrum novam experitur nobilitatem." (Emphasis added.) I have highlighted two key phrases for understanding what the Holy Father is getting at. First, "ens" refers to the essence of something, what something is in itself versus its "existens" which is how it makes itself known or presents itself. So, the question of man being composed of body and soul is not secondary in the mind of the Church; it is ESSENTIAL to catch the double dimension of our nature. If you don't you run the risk of completely distorting the essence and identity of the human person. Second, the word "compenetrate" in English represents the phrase "mutuo miscentur" from the Latin. This is where it gets interesting. "Mutuo" means mutually or reciprocially with the possible connotations of borrowed or lent. "Miscentur" is the passive form of the verb "miscere" which means to mix or to combine or to unite. That's very telling. Body and soul in the human are brought together by God -- that's why the phrase passive. The person is always on the receiving end of this uniting. The body comes from a unique interaction of love by the parents and a providentially guided interaction of two half-sets of DNA. The soul is a unique creation from God. But the human person is the outcome of the uniting of BOTH! Hence, the person you are is not just simply a soul in a body; the person you are is soul-body/body-soul composite which constitutes the real frontiers of your particular identity. Written into your nature (ens) is the reciprocial union which finds expression in all sorts of ways, good and bad (existens). But to long to be without a body is to desire the literal sundering of your humanity; you would simply cease to be.
And that takes us to love. If the compenetration of body and soul works this way, then so much eros and agape. Granted that eros needs purifying, it doesn't change the fact that to act as though eros isn't part of the human make-up degrades our humanity. The passion of love (eros) meets in the ecstasy which seeks the ultimate good and the ultimate gift of love, the one who is utterly other (agape), namely God. This love will always reach its perfection in God who is love. It is his nature, his ens, to be love.
Hence, since we are made in the image and likeness of God, the degree to which I cease to love, I cease to be. Frightening prospect, isn't it?
I know I should be doing something more productive...
So, I am sitting here, thinking about a previous conversation I had with Fr. H concerning RCIA, at least in its catechetical dimension. To the point, I am not satisfied with my own presentations this year and again am thinking of revamping the shape of next year's classes. Of course, every year is a little different given the flexible and moveable nature of Easter. But this summer, if I can keep myself and Fr. H on point, I think we are going to have a meeting of the minds and try to model each other's RCIA presentations off of each other. This would mean composing and researching the same points together, perhaps resulting in a general set of outlines and citations that we could use in whatever way we want. Also, to that end, we would work on Powerpoint presentations to use in the RCIA classes.
Now, up front, and I am sure Fr. H would admit this publicly, that he is something of a techphobe. All this new fangled stuff is needed, but quite frankly gives him hives. This means that I would be holding his hand through the whole process and essentially (probably) having to make all the slides for all the presentations. Note, I am not complaining (for once). I recognize my cool, Borg-like exterior allows me to interface with technology more expertly and confidently. However, this leads to a quandry.
If I buy a new laptop, and yes, I would need a new one given the age of its predecessor, what presentation software should I use? I am more comfortable with WP/Corel products but the Microsoft industry (speaking of the Borg) is more ubiquitious. That's an added bonus in that, should we decide to publish both book, with outlines and slideshows, most folks would prefer MS. But that is way down the line. The immediate question is which one to choose? Do you folks have any sort of ideas?
As a side note, Fr. H would probably have to load the software on his new laptop so that would have to be factored in. I wonder if Dell would give a discount for multiple purchases...
So, I am sitting here, thinking about a previous conversation I had with Fr. H concerning RCIA, at least in its catechetical dimension. To the point, I am not satisfied with my own presentations this year and again am thinking of revamping the shape of next year's classes. Of course, every year is a little different given the flexible and moveable nature of Easter. But this summer, if I can keep myself and Fr. H on point, I think we are going to have a meeting of the minds and try to model each other's RCIA presentations off of each other. This would mean composing and researching the same points together, perhaps resulting in a general set of outlines and citations that we could use in whatever way we want. Also, to that end, we would work on Powerpoint presentations to use in the RCIA classes.
Now, up front, and I am sure Fr. H would admit this publicly, that he is something of a techphobe. All this new fangled stuff is needed, but quite frankly gives him hives. This means that I would be holding his hand through the whole process and essentially (probably) having to make all the slides for all the presentations. Note, I am not complaining (for once). I recognize my cool, Borg-like exterior allows me to interface with technology more expertly and confidently. However, this leads to a quandry.
If I buy a new laptop, and yes, I would need a new one given the age of its predecessor, what presentation software should I use? I am more comfortable with WP/Corel products but the Microsoft industry (speaking of the Borg) is more ubiquitious. That's an added bonus in that, should we decide to publish both book, with outlines and slideshows, most folks would prefer MS. But that is way down the line. The immediate question is which one to choose? Do you folks have any sort of ideas?
As a side note, Fr. H would probably have to load the software on his new laptop so that would have to be factored in. I wonder if Dell would give a discount for multiple purchases...
I'm thinking of building a summer home here...
...and when I say "summer home," I really mean place to install orbital mind control lasers and take over the planet. It'll be a humble little abode with PS2 hookups and all the rest. The difference is the PS2 controllers will give access to surveillence satellites and the ground force deployment webhost.
...and when I say "summer home," I really mean place to install orbital mind control lasers and take over the planet. It'll be a humble little abode with PS2 hookups and all the rest. The difference is the PS2 controllers will give access to surveillence satellites and the ground force deployment webhost.
No More Lurking in Shadows!
I saw this announcement on several other blogs and thought it might be a nice feature. Today is a day of amnesty from lurking. Lurking happens when a reader reads but never comments and you know who you are. However, the rest of us would like to know who you are also. So, for today only, the comments boxes are for those who have either never commented or have commented infrequently, let's say, less than once in six months but have been reading this blog nonetheless. It should prove an amusing event.
Also, for everyone, if you haven't taken the time, add your pin to the Frapper map. You can find your way there via the side bar. I know I shouldn't be competing, but we have got to be more popular than Dappled Things, and he has twice as many pins.
I saw this announcement on several other blogs and thought it might be a nice feature. Today is a day of amnesty from lurking. Lurking happens when a reader reads but never comments and you know who you are. However, the rest of us would like to know who you are also. So, for today only, the comments boxes are for those who have either never commented or have commented infrequently, let's say, less than once in six months but have been reading this blog nonetheless. It should prove an amusing event.
Also, for everyone, if you haven't taken the time, add your pin to the Frapper map. You can find your way there via the side bar. I know I shouldn't be competing, but we have got to be more popular than Dappled Things, and he has twice as many pins.
Wednesday, January 25, 2006
First off the block with an excellent form
For those who are waiting for me to type up something on the new encyclical, you can feast on my buddy, Karl, that swinging philosophy teacher hunkered down in the upper midwest. He has a good sense of the larger picture into which the encyclical is thrust. Now, to see if I can match him in any form of intellect...
For those who are waiting for me to type up something on the new encyclical, you can feast on my buddy, Karl, that swinging philosophy teacher hunkered down in the upper midwest. He has a good sense of the larger picture into which the encyclical is thrust. Now, to see if I can match him in any form of intellect...
A Change of Plans
As most readers know, I have been conducting a School of Community along the lines of CL for the benefit of my college students here in Alva and its environs. For the most part, the program has been successful even if attendance has been uneven. At any rate, one of the key elements of CL's School of Community is the interaction during discussions of one of Msgr. Giussani's books. However, after what I have seen in the news today, I think I am going to shelve that for the next four weeks.
You see, Giussani will be with us always; the buzz (and some degree of misunderstanding) surrounding the Holy Father's encyclical will not. So, while the iron is hot, I am striking. For the next month, my college group will be reading and discussing (and hopefully, applying) the contents of Benedict's masterful encyclical. I, for one, am encouraged, enlightened and excited at the theological prowess expressed in this document. I hope the college students will be as well.
Remember us in your prayers, therefore. We start tonight. And yes, I already read, and going re-read the introduction, and then post something, assuming Blogger obeys.
As most readers know, I have been conducting a School of Community along the lines of CL for the benefit of my college students here in Alva and its environs. For the most part, the program has been successful even if attendance has been uneven. At any rate, one of the key elements of CL's School of Community is the interaction during discussions of one of Msgr. Giussani's books. However, after what I have seen in the news today, I think I am going to shelve that for the next four weeks.
You see, Giussani will be with us always; the buzz (and some degree of misunderstanding) surrounding the Holy Father's encyclical will not. So, while the iron is hot, I am striking. For the next month, my college group will be reading and discussing (and hopefully, applying) the contents of Benedict's masterful encyclical. I, for one, am encouraged, enlightened and excited at the theological prowess expressed in this document. I hope the college students will be as well.
Remember us in your prayers, therefore. We start tonight. And yes, I already read, and going re-read the introduction, and then post something, assuming Blogger obeys.
Go Away, Kid; Ya Bother Me!
I wanted to blog about more things but right now I am up to my haunches in the Holy Father's new encyclical. Ooooooh, Baby! It is something else. I have had so many moments of "ah ha!" during said encyclical that I lost count of them. Therefore, I will be back the instant I get this finished, thought about, and then make some plans from it. The immediate thing which occurs to me is the employing of the encyclical in this weekend's homily. I am telling you all this so that you can plan a road trip up here to hear the connection I made between this encyclical and the Gospel reading this week, "Behold a new teaching with real authority."
Jealous?
I wanted to blog about more things but right now I am up to my haunches in the Holy Father's new encyclical. Ooooooh, Baby! It is something else. I have had so many moments of "ah ha!" during said encyclical that I lost count of them. Therefore, I will be back the instant I get this finished, thought about, and then make some plans from it. The immediate thing which occurs to me is the employing of the encyclical in this weekend's homily. I am telling you all this so that you can plan a road trip up here to hear the connection I made between this encyclical and the Gospel reading this week, "Behold a new teaching with real authority."
Jealous?
Tuesday, January 24, 2006
Main Stream Media (MSM) must be stopped!
I was innocently enjoying some coffee this morning with the Today show on television. I know. Mistake number one: I had the Today show on. Oh well. I usually have it on only to hear the top of the hour national news briefs. Here is a synopsis of what was reported this morning which sent me into a rage, requiring a phone call to Fr. Tharp.
The following was reported: (Again, this is a paraphrase). Anne Curry: And finally this morning, a teenage boy is claiming he was humiliated by his teacher in class for wearing a Denver Broncos jersey to school. On Friday, two days before the Broncos game versus the Pittsburgh Steelers, the 17 year old boy wore the jersey to school. He claims the teacher instructed students to throw wadded up pieces of paper at him and that he was made to sit on the floor while taking his mid-term exam. The teacher claims it was just good-natured fun and he can't believe the student is making such claims about the episode.
Sounds rather inappropriate of the alleged teacher, huh? Well, at this point, Ms. Curry, having finished the news desk update, turned back to Matt Lauer and Campbell Brown (filling in for Katie Couric). Matt said, What do you think about that story? I can see how the event would make the kid feel humiliated. Anne then added, Well, apparently it was a class on ethnicity and the teacher was trying to help the kids understand what it is like to feel ostracized.
This is where I went nuts. WHAT!? Okay, does anyone at NBC think this information might have been helpful with the story as it was originally presented? Why is this information coming out as an aside via banter between MSM bimbos and bozos (though Fr. Tharp claims Lauer qualifies as a bimbo too)? First of all, this isn't news and our time ought not have been wasted with it. But, since the MSM decided to report it, why was this later information not given in the original report? So, let me get this straight. And, yes, I was screaming this observation this morning in the rectory as I described what happened over the phone to Fr. Tharp.
A teacher has a class about ethnicity in which he is trying to make students aware of what it feels like to be ostracized. He directs this lesson at a student, properly enrolled in said class on ethnicity (we can presume), by making fun of his Denver Broncos jersey. AND IT IS LEGITIMATE TO COMPLAIN ABOUT BEING HUMILIATED WHEN YOU ARE IN THE CLASS TO BEGIN WITH????!!!! YOU KNOW WHAT NBC, ONCE YOU TELL ME ALL THE INFORMATION -- GOSH -- NOW THE EPISODE SEEMS TO MAKE SENSE TO ME!!!!!! AND IF ANY OF THIS IS TRUE, WHAT IS THE NOISE ABOUT? WHO CARES? THE CLASS ON ETHNICITY DEMONSTRATES ONE OF THE PROBLEMS WITH MODERN "EDUCATION" WHICH OUGHT TO ALARM US, BUT IF THE BOY DOESN'T WANT TO FEEL OSTRACIZED, THEN HE OUGHT GET OUT OF A CLASS WHOSE OBJECTIVE IS TO TEACH THE EXPERIENCE OF BEING OSTRACIZED. BUT AS LONG AS HE IS ENROLLED, HE HAS NO REASONABLE GROUNDS FOR COMPLAINT.
Aaaagggggggggghhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!!! My coffee was so good up until that point. And the day pretty much went down hill after that. But I'm feeling much better now.
I was innocently enjoying some coffee this morning with the Today show on television. I know. Mistake number one: I had the Today show on. Oh well. I usually have it on only to hear the top of the hour national news briefs. Here is a synopsis of what was reported this morning which sent me into a rage, requiring a phone call to Fr. Tharp.
The following was reported: (Again, this is a paraphrase). Anne Curry: And finally this morning, a teenage boy is claiming he was humiliated by his teacher in class for wearing a Denver Broncos jersey to school. On Friday, two days before the Broncos game versus the Pittsburgh Steelers, the 17 year old boy wore the jersey to school. He claims the teacher instructed students to throw wadded up pieces of paper at him and that he was made to sit on the floor while taking his mid-term exam. The teacher claims it was just good-natured fun and he can't believe the student is making such claims about the episode.
Sounds rather inappropriate of the alleged teacher, huh? Well, at this point, Ms. Curry, having finished the news desk update, turned back to Matt Lauer and Campbell Brown (filling in for Katie Couric). Matt said, What do you think about that story? I can see how the event would make the kid feel humiliated. Anne then added, Well, apparently it was a class on ethnicity and the teacher was trying to help the kids understand what it is like to feel ostracized.
This is where I went nuts. WHAT!? Okay, does anyone at NBC think this information might have been helpful with the story as it was originally presented? Why is this information coming out as an aside via banter between MSM bimbos and bozos (though Fr. Tharp claims Lauer qualifies as a bimbo too)? First of all, this isn't news and our time ought not have been wasted with it. But, since the MSM decided to report it, why was this later information not given in the original report? So, let me get this straight. And, yes, I was screaming this observation this morning in the rectory as I described what happened over the phone to Fr. Tharp.
A teacher has a class about ethnicity in which he is trying to make students aware of what it feels like to be ostracized. He directs this lesson at a student, properly enrolled in said class on ethnicity (we can presume), by making fun of his Denver Broncos jersey. AND IT IS LEGITIMATE TO COMPLAIN ABOUT BEING HUMILIATED WHEN YOU ARE IN THE CLASS TO BEGIN WITH????!!!! YOU KNOW WHAT NBC, ONCE YOU TELL ME ALL THE INFORMATION -- GOSH -- NOW THE EPISODE SEEMS TO MAKE SENSE TO ME!!!!!! AND IF ANY OF THIS IS TRUE, WHAT IS THE NOISE ABOUT? WHO CARES? THE CLASS ON ETHNICITY DEMONSTRATES ONE OF THE PROBLEMS WITH MODERN "EDUCATION" WHICH OUGHT TO ALARM US, BUT IF THE BOY DOESN'T WANT TO FEEL OSTRACIZED, THEN HE OUGHT GET OUT OF A CLASS WHOSE OBJECTIVE IS TO TEACH THE EXPERIENCE OF BEING OSTRACIZED. BUT AS LONG AS HE IS ENROLLED, HE HAS NO REASONABLE GROUNDS FOR COMPLAINT.
Aaaagggggggggghhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!!! My coffee was so good up until that point. And the day pretty much went down hill after that. But I'm feeling much better now.
Pictures Like This Make Me Glad I Haven't Perfected Transporter Technology Yet
...as it would require me to both fire up the imagining array and decouple the Heisenberg Compensators to beam a large flaming load of grenades to various folks up and down both coasts. Just be happy I have been having trouble with the funding...
...Truth be told, this image actually perplexes me just a bit. After all, if the gurus who know all know are right that Christianity is a passing thing, and most people don't believe it anyway, why would someone who wanted to evoke a certain set of emotional reactions (mostly I suspect an attitude of both "aren't I great" and "isn't it terrible you don't own all my albums or appreciate my greatness" which would not precisely conform to the original image or recipient of said treatment) spend the time and effort to make himself up in this likeness? Further, doesn't our friend Kayne not realize that most of the people whom I assume he hopes to sway to his way of seeing things are going to be impressed with this daring outburst of hubris?...
...as it would require me to both fire up the imagining array and decouple the Heisenberg Compensators to beam a large flaming load of grenades to various folks up and down both coasts. Just be happy I have been having trouble with the funding...
...Truth be told, this image actually perplexes me just a bit. After all, if the gurus who know all know are right that Christianity is a passing thing, and most people don't believe it anyway, why would someone who wanted to evoke a certain set of emotional reactions (mostly I suspect an attitude of both "aren't I great" and "isn't it terrible you don't own all my albums or appreciate my greatness" which would not precisely conform to the original image or recipient of said treatment) spend the time and effort to make himself up in this likeness? Further, doesn't our friend Kayne not realize that most of the people whom I assume he hopes to sway to his way of seeing things are going to be impressed with this daring outburst of hubris?...
Monday, January 23, 2006
Happy Birthday, Fr. Tharp!
Today is the nativity of Fr. Tharp! Today I got togther with my fellow CRM blogger and two other brother priests for lunch at a nice restaurant. We treated Fr. Tharp to lunch for his birthday, hoping that he could forget for a moment that the Church has still not declared his birthday a liturgical octave celebration! We all had a good time. So, here is to one of the most dedicated pastors in the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City and one of the finest priests I know. Happy Birthday, Fr. Tharp!
Today is the nativity of Fr. Tharp! Today I got togther with my fellow CRM blogger and two other brother priests for lunch at a nice restaurant. We treated Fr. Tharp to lunch for his birthday, hoping that he could forget for a moment that the Church has still not declared his birthday a liturgical octave celebration! We all had a good time. So, here is to one of the most dedicated pastors in the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City and one of the finest priests I know. Happy Birthday, Fr. Tharp!
Thursday, January 19, 2006
More Notes from the Retreat
So, the afternoon has slowed to a crawl with a list of things to do which are on hold because of the interference of others. Also, I am conducting some marriage preparation in my office (the couple is doing a relationship inventory) so I am pinned down until they finish. Lastly, I am sweating bullets and swearing at myself under my breath because I forgot to jot down some ideas for tomorrow's broadcast on Relevant Radio. Yeah, I am a twit; we'll blame it on the Nyquil.
Another fun feature of the most recent retreat was the accidental collision with my own personal history. While on retreat several men I went to seminary with, either were passing through or attending the retreat as well. First, we have to mention Fr. David Davis of the Diocese of Lincoln, NE. He was three years ahead of me in seminary at St. Charles. For those who have seen it, he is the one responsible for the picture of Be'lanna Torres, but that's another story. Second, Fr. Chuck Colozzi of the Diocese of Camden, NJ was also lurking around the retreat house. He wasn't taking part in our retreat but he was taking part in some sort of spiritual exercises. Fr. C was a classmate of mine at St. Charles and was a good friend when I was there. He would consistently give me a hard time about my poor housekeeping skills. The pantomimed hand grenade toss was a subtle reminder that it was time to straighten things up. I hate to admit it but I just don't notice those things. Third, Br. Maximilian Stelmochowski, C.F.R. knows the real scoop on this alpha ragemonkey as he was in the seminary with me in the early days -- Conception Seminary College. Br. Max (and might I add that is still fun and funny to say as I know him by a totally different name) is in charge of keeping the books straight for the order. As he said, he is the CFO for the C.F.R.s.
Moments like this when you run afowl of folks you used to know and socialize with remind you to be both patient and humble with just a splash of contrition thrown in for good measure. Seeing these guys reminded me of the good times we shared and of the stupid, unthinking things we do when we are growing up, both naturally and supernaturally. Unpleasant? Yes. Necessary? Yes. I remember another choice encounter I had with a former classmate who is now a priest for the Diocese of Wichita, KS. I wanted to apologize for all the times I acted like a conceited jackass while we were in seminary, but would be quite a little list. He came back with the classic line, "We were all conceited then."
I know, or at least suspect, that many folks from my days in Philly read or browse this site from time to time. For what it's worth, and that's probably not much, but for what it's worth, I'm sorry for all the dumb things I did when I was there. I see Fr. Hamilton's class and envy the bond they share. Granted being halfway around the world improves that bonding process, it doesn't excuse me from all the things that I failed to do to build those relationships in my own class.
Okay, my engaged couple can be put off no longer. Will post more later.
So, the afternoon has slowed to a crawl with a list of things to do which are on hold because of the interference of others. Also, I am conducting some marriage preparation in my office (the couple is doing a relationship inventory) so I am pinned down until they finish. Lastly, I am sweating bullets and swearing at myself under my breath because I forgot to jot down some ideas for tomorrow's broadcast on Relevant Radio. Yeah, I am a twit; we'll blame it on the Nyquil.
Another fun feature of the most recent retreat was the accidental collision with my own personal history. While on retreat several men I went to seminary with, either were passing through or attending the retreat as well. First, we have to mention Fr. David Davis of the Diocese of Lincoln, NE. He was three years ahead of me in seminary at St. Charles. For those who have seen it, he is the one responsible for the picture of Be'lanna Torres, but that's another story. Second, Fr. Chuck Colozzi of the Diocese of Camden, NJ was also lurking around the retreat house. He wasn't taking part in our retreat but he was taking part in some sort of spiritual exercises. Fr. C was a classmate of mine at St. Charles and was a good friend when I was there. He would consistently give me a hard time about my poor housekeeping skills. The pantomimed hand grenade toss was a subtle reminder that it was time to straighten things up. I hate to admit it but I just don't notice those things. Third, Br. Maximilian Stelmochowski, C.F.R. knows the real scoop on this alpha ragemonkey as he was in the seminary with me in the early days -- Conception Seminary College. Br. Max (and might I add that is still fun and funny to say as I know him by a totally different name) is in charge of keeping the books straight for the order. As he said, he is the CFO for the C.F.R.s.
Moments like this when you run afowl of folks you used to know and socialize with remind you to be both patient and humble with just a splash of contrition thrown in for good measure. Seeing these guys reminded me of the good times we shared and of the stupid, unthinking things we do when we are growing up, both naturally and supernaturally. Unpleasant? Yes. Necessary? Yes. I remember another choice encounter I had with a former classmate who is now a priest for the Diocese of Wichita, KS. I wanted to apologize for all the times I acted like a conceited jackass while we were in seminary, but would be quite a little list. He came back with the classic line, "We were all conceited then."
I know, or at least suspect, that many folks from my days in Philly read or browse this site from time to time. For what it's worth, and that's probably not much, but for what it's worth, I'm sorry for all the dumb things I did when I was there. I see Fr. Hamilton's class and envy the bond they share. Granted being halfway around the world improves that bonding process, it doesn't excuse me from all the things that I failed to do to build those relationships in my own class.
Okay, my engaged couple can be put off no longer. Will post more later.
Wednesday, January 18, 2006
I'm Home With Little Thanks to LGA
My apologies for my prolonged blog silence but since getting back from retreat, my brain stem has completely rebelled against any of my work efforts. Thank you for your prayers and best wishes while I was away. Now, back to business...
First, let me give you a little recap of the retreat. The retreat was held at Trinity Retreat Center in Larchmont, NY. Cardinal Cooke (his cause for canonization is now open in Rome) established the retreat center specifically for the spiritual well-being of priests. The retreat center itself is a remodeled home and thus has the feel of home and of being away. For me, this retreat was also something of a homecoming as well. Before ordination to the Holy Priesthood, the candidate is expected to attend a five day retreat to prepare for receiving the sacrament of Holy Orders and embarking on the ministry of Christ. My priesthood retreat was with Fr. Groeschel and 8 other priests. At that retreat, we considered the identity of God the Father in our Priestly Lives. So, to come back after five years of priestly ministry was like touching the foundation moment of my entire life up to this point. You might find that statement a little strong, but you have to remember that nothing is guaranteed in priestly formation. Just because you enter the seminary doesn't mean that you are going to be ordained. Being on that retreat was confirmation that the intervening years were not wasted, futile effort. To come back to Larchmont gave me the opportunity to see a fleeting glimpse of idealism and rapturous joy that accompanied those closing days of my seminary career. I would glance up from time to time and catch a faded after image of younger me standing by the windows, contemplating the swiftly shifting sheen on Long Island Sound or kneeling before Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament praying to be a good priest. For what it's worth, that only was worth the price of admission.
However, there was more to be thankful for. The retreat focused primarily on breaking the split level living that priests often get themselves crossways of. For the priest, the conflict rages between two opposing world views: the professional priest vs. the vocational priest. The professional priest is the one who is there to do a job. The vocational priest is the one who is there to lead others to Christ and thus to salvation. It was Fr. Benedict's opinion that this was one of the key problems facing the Church in the United States, and I would have to concur. Why would any young man feel compelled to take a job that pays so poorly and so few perks? The only reason I can see is because Priesthood is not a job; it's a mission. When you see it as a mission, then compensation is not the primary focus, although a necessary aspect of reality. In a mission, you are trying to fulfill the will of the one who granted the mission to you. Therefore, you are not your own man; you belong to another.
This observation about split level living led to the question about how do you break down that split. The source of priestly ministry and life, lived fruitfully, resides with the Sacred Scripture and the Holy Sacraments. Ultimately, Fr. Benedict was pushing to ask, "How well do I know Jesus?" The life of Grace is nothing less than being immersed in the life of the Holy Trinity, participating the Paschal Mystery of Christ, our lover, our savior. So, the more at home one is with the Sacraments and with the Sacred Scriptures the more at home one should be with Christ. The final homily emphasized the role of personal prayer in the life of the priest, especially encouraging us to grow beyond saying prayers and entering into the deep water of mental prayer, thus setting the stage for contemplation.
Okay, that's enough for right now. I don't know why but my head is pounding and my nose is draining. I probably have bird flu. In short, it was a spectacular retreat. Now it's a matter of putting particular resolutions in action.
My apologies for my prolonged blog silence but since getting back from retreat, my brain stem has completely rebelled against any of my work efforts. Thank you for your prayers and best wishes while I was away. Now, back to business...
First, let me give you a little recap of the retreat. The retreat was held at Trinity Retreat Center in Larchmont, NY. Cardinal Cooke (his cause for canonization is now open in Rome) established the retreat center specifically for the spiritual well-being of priests. The retreat center itself is a remodeled home and thus has the feel of home and of being away. For me, this retreat was also something of a homecoming as well. Before ordination to the Holy Priesthood, the candidate is expected to attend a five day retreat to prepare for receiving the sacrament of Holy Orders and embarking on the ministry of Christ. My priesthood retreat was with Fr. Groeschel and 8 other priests. At that retreat, we considered the identity of God the Father in our Priestly Lives. So, to come back after five years of priestly ministry was like touching the foundation moment of my entire life up to this point. You might find that statement a little strong, but you have to remember that nothing is guaranteed in priestly formation. Just because you enter the seminary doesn't mean that you are going to be ordained. Being on that retreat was confirmation that the intervening years were not wasted, futile effort. To come back to Larchmont gave me the opportunity to see a fleeting glimpse of idealism and rapturous joy that accompanied those closing days of my seminary career. I would glance up from time to time and catch a faded after image of younger me standing by the windows, contemplating the swiftly shifting sheen on Long Island Sound or kneeling before Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament praying to be a good priest. For what it's worth, that only was worth the price of admission.
However, there was more to be thankful for. The retreat focused primarily on breaking the split level living that priests often get themselves crossways of. For the priest, the conflict rages between two opposing world views: the professional priest vs. the vocational priest. The professional priest is the one who is there to do a job. The vocational priest is the one who is there to lead others to Christ and thus to salvation. It was Fr. Benedict's opinion that this was one of the key problems facing the Church in the United States, and I would have to concur. Why would any young man feel compelled to take a job that pays so poorly and so few perks? The only reason I can see is because Priesthood is not a job; it's a mission. When you see it as a mission, then compensation is not the primary focus, although a necessary aspect of reality. In a mission, you are trying to fulfill the will of the one who granted the mission to you. Therefore, you are not your own man; you belong to another.
This observation about split level living led to the question about how do you break down that split. The source of priestly ministry and life, lived fruitfully, resides with the Sacred Scripture and the Holy Sacraments. Ultimately, Fr. Benedict was pushing to ask, "How well do I know Jesus?" The life of Grace is nothing less than being immersed in the life of the Holy Trinity, participating the Paschal Mystery of Christ, our lover, our savior. So, the more at home one is with the Sacraments and with the Sacred Scriptures the more at home one should be with Christ. The final homily emphasized the role of personal prayer in the life of the priest, especially encouraging us to grow beyond saying prayers and entering into the deep water of mental prayer, thus setting the stage for contemplation.
Okay, that's enough for right now. I don't know why but my head is pounding and my nose is draining. I probably have bird flu. In short, it was a spectacular retreat. Now it's a matter of putting particular resolutions in action.
Friday, January 13, 2006
What's the deal Mr. Robertson?
Just had to borrow and transform a song lyric there. I was putting on my shoes this morning and listening to the day's top stories on the Today Show, when I learned of Pat Robertson's latest gaff. What is going on with this man? How does he remain front and center on the stage of his show with, I suppose, loyal viewers? I mean, yes, I understand it is his show and so it is no surprise that he remains. But, that he has to go through the effort to apologize (and this is not the first time) for his remarks seems to indicate to me that someone (perhaps his own viewers?) criticized his remarks. I don't think he would apologize just because the main stream media reacted to his remarks. I assume it must have been other Christian groups who called him on the carpet. So, given that, how does he remain with a television voice and an audience? I just don't get it.
Just had to borrow and transform a song lyric there. I was putting on my shoes this morning and listening to the day's top stories on the Today Show, when I learned of Pat Robertson's latest gaff. What is going on with this man? How does he remain front and center on the stage of his show with, I suppose, loyal viewers? I mean, yes, I understand it is his show and so it is no surprise that he remains. But, that he has to go through the effort to apologize (and this is not the first time) for his remarks seems to indicate to me that someone (perhaps his own viewers?) criticized his remarks. I don't think he would apologize just because the main stream media reacted to his remarks. I assume it must have been other Christian groups who called him on the carpet. So, given that, how does he remain with a television voice and an audience? I just don't get it.
Thursday, January 12, 2006
Tetanus Shots Required for Alito Hearings
Folks, I am sorry. I generally try to avoid comments regarding the political realm, but I just can't stand it any more. Our political leaders are largely weak in virtue, uninspired by the truth, and devoted to the cult of self. And I say that generally about politicians of any and all political parties. Very few of our elected officials offer me much inspiration.
With that description, I ought not be surprised that the Alito confirmation hearing is a circus. I don't for a second believe that the Senators on the Judiciary Committee or the other members of the Senate have much of an open mind regarding Alito's nomination. I would hazard the guess that most Senators decided on their vote for or against Alito some time ago. The sad thing is that I am surprised and disturbed by the spectacle of the hearing (sad in a certain sense because my emotional response is a waste of my energy).
I find that most of the Senator's questions which I have heard on the television reveal that they, as members of the legislative body charged with making laws, believe they also have the authority to properly interpret the Constitution, thereby keeping any judge who disagrees with their interpretation off the bench as far as is politically possible. They seem to think that they themselves are also members of the judicial branch. They whine about checks and balances and they froth at the mouth about checking the executive power of the President, the whole while overstepping their legislative role as they try to ensure that members of the judicial branch will serve them and their ideology as legislators. I find it disingenuous. The type of questions asked of Alito reveal a myopic obsession on the part of many Senators. Such Senators strike me as simply fighting mad that George W. Bush occupies the White House and they want to make Alito's entire service on the bench revolve around Bush's real or perceived extension of executive privilege, as if even a noticeable fraction of cases that would come before a Justice Alito would have to do with executive actions over the course of the war in Iraq. Please!
Senators are foaming at the mouth and insulting us with their lack of logic. I will say that I found my own Senator Coburn's remarks yesterday promising in that he debunked much of the pro-abortion rhetoric. Looks like it is time for tetanus shots in Washington, D.C.
Folks, I am sorry. I generally try to avoid comments regarding the political realm, but I just can't stand it any more. Our political leaders are largely weak in virtue, uninspired by the truth, and devoted to the cult of self. And I say that generally about politicians of any and all political parties. Very few of our elected officials offer me much inspiration.
With that description, I ought not be surprised that the Alito confirmation hearing is a circus. I don't for a second believe that the Senators on the Judiciary Committee or the other members of the Senate have much of an open mind regarding Alito's nomination. I would hazard the guess that most Senators decided on their vote for or against Alito some time ago. The sad thing is that I am surprised and disturbed by the spectacle of the hearing (sad in a certain sense because my emotional response is a waste of my energy).
I find that most of the Senator's questions which I have heard on the television reveal that they, as members of the legislative body charged with making laws, believe they also have the authority to properly interpret the Constitution, thereby keeping any judge who disagrees with their interpretation off the bench as far as is politically possible. They seem to think that they themselves are also members of the judicial branch. They whine about checks and balances and they froth at the mouth about checking the executive power of the President, the whole while overstepping their legislative role as they try to ensure that members of the judicial branch will serve them and their ideology as legislators. I find it disingenuous. The type of questions asked of Alito reveal a myopic obsession on the part of many Senators. Such Senators strike me as simply fighting mad that George W. Bush occupies the White House and they want to make Alito's entire service on the bench revolve around Bush's real or perceived extension of executive privilege, as if even a noticeable fraction of cases that would come before a Justice Alito would have to do with executive actions over the course of the war in Iraq. Please!
Senators are foaming at the mouth and insulting us with their lack of logic. I will say that I found my own Senator Coburn's remarks yesterday promising in that he debunked much of the pro-abortion rhetoric. Looks like it is time for tetanus shots in Washington, D.C.
Tuesday, January 10, 2006
Fr. Hamilton's Annual Class Reunion 2006
Again, my seminary classmates gathered for our annual reunion last week. Past readers of CRM may recall previous photos from past year's reunions. We gather at a Tree Farm in Alabama, owned by the parents of a classmate. The tree farm provides plenty of outdoor activities: fishing, four wheeling, shooting guns, hunting, fire side chats, good food, adoration, prayer, Mass, and hiking. In this photo a few of us were out for a hike and we prayed the Rosary for part of the way. I dropped back a bit to take this photo -- thinking it a great shot to share with you dear CRM readers. No, I don't normally interrupt prayer to take a photo. Some things you just can't help. We had 15 classmates present at this year's reunion, which was a new record. I would guess that outdoor recreation on a tree farm is a rather unique priest vacation, but it suits me and my classmates just fine. It is a wonderful time spent together. A couple more photos are below.
Again, my seminary classmates gathered for our annual reunion last week. Past readers of CRM may recall previous photos from past year's reunions. We gather at a Tree Farm in Alabama, owned by the parents of a classmate. The tree farm provides plenty of outdoor activities: fishing, four wheeling, shooting guns, hunting, fire side chats, good food, adoration, prayer, Mass, and hiking. In this photo a few of us were out for a hike and we prayed the Rosary for part of the way. I dropped back a bit to take this photo -- thinking it a great shot to share with you dear CRM readers. No, I don't normally interrupt prayer to take a photo. Some things you just can't help. We had 15 classmates present at this year's reunion, which was a new record. I would guess that outdoor recreation on a tree farm is a rather unique priest vacation, but it suits me and my classmates just fine. It is a wonderful time spent together. A couple more photos are below.
I went hunting again with my classmates at our reunion. It was the third time I have ever hunted. The first year (some of you may remember those pictures) I shot a doe. The second year, I didn't take a shot since I only saw one small doe. This year I went out only one afternoon to hunt and shot an eight point buck. It weighed 155 pounds. Here I am with the prize. A few moments after this photo was taken, we commenced the cleaning process which allowed me to bring some of the meat home for cooking. It was delicous. We are checking into having the head mounted to add to the decor of the lodge on the tree farm. With this year's deer, I am officially two for two (though this year's deer required two bullets to take it down).
From left to right is Fr. Christopher Nalty, a priest of New Orleans, currently working in the Vatican Congregation for the Clergy (whose parents own the tree farm where we meet each year); me; and, Fr. James Bahash, a priest from the Diocese of San Diego, who has graciously walked me through the process of cleaning the deer and removing the meat. Here we are all celebrating the hunt before the cleaning process.
What?
Okay, sometimes I just get annoyed by what passes for news. Other times I get annoyed by the "hype" of selling news and selling news stations. A commercial airing currently on one of the major network affiliates here in Oklahoma lauds how they are the number one newscast in Oklahoma. It lauds their news dedication, their news prowess, and their lead time on all the major stories of interest to Oklahomans. The commercial ends by stating something that leaves me scratching my head. It goes something like this (though this isn't an exact quote): "You have made us not only the number one newscast in Oklahoma, but the number one newscast in America."
What?! Okay, so let me get this straight. So many Oklahomans are watching this affiliate's news cast that it has not only the number one rating in Oklahoma, but the number one rating in America? How is that possible? Perhaps I am missing some application of that claim, but it makes no sense to me. How could an Oklahoma market be so big that it is actually the number one in America?
Okay, sometimes I just get annoyed by what passes for news. Other times I get annoyed by the "hype" of selling news and selling news stations. A commercial airing currently on one of the major network affiliates here in Oklahoma lauds how they are the number one newscast in Oklahoma. It lauds their news dedication, their news prowess, and their lead time on all the major stories of interest to Oklahomans. The commercial ends by stating something that leaves me scratching my head. It goes something like this (though this isn't an exact quote): "You have made us not only the number one newscast in Oklahoma, but the number one newscast in America."
What?! Okay, so let me get this straight. So many Oklahomans are watching this affiliate's news cast that it has not only the number one rating in Oklahoma, but the number one rating in America? How is that possible? Perhaps I am missing some application of that claim, but it makes no sense to me. How could an Oklahoma market be so big that it is actually the number one in America?
Saturday, January 07, 2006
You're on your own for now
While Fr. Hamilton is away, I have been bored out of my skull. I hope he has had a good vacation. By the time he returns, I will be headed out of town for a week's retreat. Yep, it's time to get my spiritual muscle and training regime back in order. And don't be jealous, but I will be spending the week with Fr. Benedict Groeschel, C.F.R. The topic for the retreat is "Sacrament and Scripture: the Heart of Priestly Ministry." I bodes well. I am also being accompanied by another priest of the Archdiocese, so the airport will be less lonely.
So, in the meantime, until Fr. H gets back, you are on your own. I would appreciate any prayers you can spare for myself and my fellow retreatants.
While Fr. Hamilton is away, I have been bored out of my skull. I hope he has had a good vacation. By the time he returns, I will be headed out of town for a week's retreat. Yep, it's time to get my spiritual muscle and training regime back in order. And don't be jealous, but I will be spending the week with Fr. Benedict Groeschel, C.F.R. The topic for the retreat is "Sacrament and Scripture: the Heart of Priestly Ministry." I bodes well. I am also being accompanied by another priest of the Archdiocese, so the airport will be less lonely.
So, in the meantime, until Fr. H gets back, you are on your own. I would appreciate any prayers you can spare for myself and my fellow retreatants.
Wednesday, January 04, 2006
It's Like Texas No Limit Hold'em and The Holy Spirit Has All The Chips
I seem to recall a similar situation developed the first year of this blog. I can't recall how many dioceses there are in the U.S., but for sake of simpler math, let's just say there's a hundred. So that means in 2006, about 25% of the Catholics in the U.S. will have a new bishop. (There are several auxiliaries as well as Vaticani who are retirement age, so they don't upset the mix so much.)
Further, it is fascinating to see the distribution. By my figures the breakdown is:
Northeast - 7 of 28
South - 4 of 28
Upper Midwest - 4 of 28
Southwest - 4 (all four are replacements for men in Texas.)
Midwest - 4
West - 1
Vaticani - 2
Also a couple of the northeast changes are for Eastern Rite Eparchies so that is of note as well. In short, I always look at these moments with a smile because it shows how well God's plan works. Change comes when change is needed most.
To those who will grouse because they are not pleased with the key placements thus far, I would submit to you the example of St. Charles Borromeo. Here was a guy who, by all accounts, should have gone the way of every other positioned bishop of his time -- yet he bucked the trend and selflessly gave himself to Christ. The same can happen to any man who is elevated to the seat of succession to the apostles. Probably what would be best is that we pray for the bishops who lead us, that they would have wisdom and grace to fulfill the mission Christ has entrusted to him.
I seem to recall a similar situation developed the first year of this blog. I can't recall how many dioceses there are in the U.S., but for sake of simpler math, let's just say there's a hundred. So that means in 2006, about 25% of the Catholics in the U.S. will have a new bishop. (There are several auxiliaries as well as Vaticani who are retirement age, so they don't upset the mix so much.)
Further, it is fascinating to see the distribution. By my figures the breakdown is:
Northeast - 7 of 28
South - 4 of 28
Upper Midwest - 4 of 28
Southwest - 4 (all four are replacements for men in Texas.)
Midwest - 4
West - 1
Vaticani - 2
Also a couple of the northeast changes are for Eastern Rite Eparchies so that is of note as well. In short, I always look at these moments with a smile because it shows how well God's plan works. Change comes when change is needed most.
To those who will grouse because they are not pleased with the key placements thus far, I would submit to you the example of St. Charles Borromeo. Here was a guy who, by all accounts, should have gone the way of every other positioned bishop of his time -- yet he bucked the trend and selflessly gave himself to Christ. The same can happen to any man who is elevated to the seat of succession to the apostles. Probably what would be best is that we pray for the bishops who lead us, that they would have wisdom and grace to fulfill the mission Christ has entrusted to him.
Monday, January 02, 2006
Fashionably Yours, Anti Christ Jeans?
Before you warm up your skewers to attack me, I know that this is a silly, frivilous culture that thinks that sassy jeans is some sort of real threat to Christianity. I can see the lines of bleached blonde teens squeeeeaaaaling with delight, "Becky, those jeans make your behind look fabulous! Let's not go to Sunday Mass!" Sorry it doesn't work that way.
What I find curious is a particular disconnect which has taken place in the minds of most people. If you are asked most readers of this blog, you would agree with the statement, "This culture has lost its Christian identity and we better do something to fix that." While others might respond with, "If I get anymore of this Christianity stuff rammed down my throat, I am going to hurl." If you believe in Christ, then until the culture belongs fully to Him, it's not enough. If you don't believe in Christ, any little bit of His presence is a terrible grit in your teeth. It seems to me however that anyone who would go so far as to make jeans which attack Christianity, it might be fair to say that the Church is making inroads and doesn't even know it. But then again, I am a sunny eyed optimist at times.
Before you warm up your skewers to attack me, I know that this is a silly, frivilous culture that thinks that sassy jeans is some sort of real threat to Christianity. I can see the lines of bleached blonde teens squeeeeaaaaling with delight, "Becky, those jeans make your behind look fabulous! Let's not go to Sunday Mass!" Sorry it doesn't work that way.
What I find curious is a particular disconnect which has taken place in the minds of most people. If you are asked most readers of this blog, you would agree with the statement, "This culture has lost its Christian identity and we better do something to fix that." While others might respond with, "If I get anymore of this Christianity stuff rammed down my throat, I am going to hurl." If you believe in Christ, then until the culture belongs fully to Him, it's not enough. If you don't believe in Christ, any little bit of His presence is a terrible grit in your teeth. It seems to me however that anyone who would go so far as to make jeans which attack Christianity, it might be fair to say that the Church is making inroads and doesn't even know it. But then again, I am a sunny eyed optimist at times.
Sunday, January 01, 2006
Happy New Year 2006!
As we begin a new year of the Lord's grace, we here at CRM want to wish all our readers a very Happy New Year! May the remainder of the season of Christmas be a blessing to you and your families as we embark on another year.
I have not posted in quite some time. Advent is oh, so busy for a priest. I just never found the time to be over in my office for blogging. Christmas at the new parish was beautiful. It was wonderfully decorated and is a real feast for the senses. I even managed to get Christmas shopping done this year BEFORE Christmas. That was a big stress relief. Even though the majority of my focus for Christmas is on things sacred, parish events, sacred liturgies, etc., it is amazing just how stressed even I can become with the commercial aspect, the gift buying pressure, that also makes itself felt as we approach Christmas time. I noticed just how stressful it all is when I had completed shopping. I immediately relaxed and was a bit more calm for the remaining days before Christmas. I really don't like shopping and I don't feel as if I have any really good ideas for gift giving. That doesn't help my attitude at times of year like this. The other problem I have is that as I start walking around the mall, there is this urge inside of me to stand at the heart of the mall and to put on the prophet's mantle. I see so much that (at least on the surface) appears so shallow. How much dedicated time does the shopping get in this season compared to how much time the soul, the relationship with God, gets in the same time period? Those are the things I feel like screaming out in the mall. Yes, in some sense, it is probably wise for me to limit my time at the mall!
The Octave of Christmas (the eight days after December 25 which, in the Church's liturgical calendar, are feasts -- as if the Christmas celebration was one long one lasting for eight days) was rather disappointing for me. It all began a few days before Christmas when I could feel sinus problems making themselves known. That is not a good sign for a priest approaching the weekend or an important solemnity because of the energy the body needs to get through the ceremonies and because I like to chant if my voice allows it. Providentially, with some hot tea and a little extra care, my voice was good enough to make it through Christmas day. However, (here is where the trouble and disappointment start), I began feeling more sick on Monday evening, December 26th. I made it through Mass on December 27th and then went to the doctor. The bottom line is that sinus trouble became walking pneumonia, so I have been down all week and through this weekend. I have stronger medicines now and my lungs sound a bit better today for the first time in almost a week. But I have to take it very easy because I notice my lungs react negatively when I try to do too much. Physically I don't feel ill, but the lungs aren't happy. That is where the temptation lies: to try to do too much since I don't feel badly.
The week ahead should afford me more rest. I leave tomorrow morning for my annual seminary class reunion. If you have been a reader of CRM for more than a year, you may recall my photos of past reunions. My classmates get together every first week of January for outdoor activities, hunting, fishing, hiking, and generally good fraternity around the dinner table and the bonfire. It is most relaxing and it is always good to see such dear friends -- real brothers in the priesthood. The trip should aid my taking it easy and resting up!
If I have any stories or photos of the reunion to share, I will do so in a future post some time after January 9th.
As we begin a new year of the Lord's grace, we here at CRM want to wish all our readers a very Happy New Year! May the remainder of the season of Christmas be a blessing to you and your families as we embark on another year.
I have not posted in quite some time. Advent is oh, so busy for a priest. I just never found the time to be over in my office for blogging. Christmas at the new parish was beautiful. It was wonderfully decorated and is a real feast for the senses. I even managed to get Christmas shopping done this year BEFORE Christmas. That was a big stress relief. Even though the majority of my focus for Christmas is on things sacred, parish events, sacred liturgies, etc., it is amazing just how stressed even I can become with the commercial aspect, the gift buying pressure, that also makes itself felt as we approach Christmas time. I noticed just how stressful it all is when I had completed shopping. I immediately relaxed and was a bit more calm for the remaining days before Christmas. I really don't like shopping and I don't feel as if I have any really good ideas for gift giving. That doesn't help my attitude at times of year like this. The other problem I have is that as I start walking around the mall, there is this urge inside of me to stand at the heart of the mall and to put on the prophet's mantle. I see so much that (at least on the surface) appears so shallow. How much dedicated time does the shopping get in this season compared to how much time the soul, the relationship with God, gets in the same time period? Those are the things I feel like screaming out in the mall. Yes, in some sense, it is probably wise for me to limit my time at the mall!
The Octave of Christmas (the eight days after December 25 which, in the Church's liturgical calendar, are feasts -- as if the Christmas celebration was one long one lasting for eight days) was rather disappointing for me. It all began a few days before Christmas when I could feel sinus problems making themselves known. That is not a good sign for a priest approaching the weekend or an important solemnity because of the energy the body needs to get through the ceremonies and because I like to chant if my voice allows it. Providentially, with some hot tea and a little extra care, my voice was good enough to make it through Christmas day. However, (here is where the trouble and disappointment start), I began feeling more sick on Monday evening, December 26th. I made it through Mass on December 27th and then went to the doctor. The bottom line is that sinus trouble became walking pneumonia, so I have been down all week and through this weekend. I have stronger medicines now and my lungs sound a bit better today for the first time in almost a week. But I have to take it very easy because I notice my lungs react negatively when I try to do too much. Physically I don't feel ill, but the lungs aren't happy. That is where the temptation lies: to try to do too much since I don't feel badly.
The week ahead should afford me more rest. I leave tomorrow morning for my annual seminary class reunion. If you have been a reader of CRM for more than a year, you may recall my photos of past reunions. My classmates get together every first week of January for outdoor activities, hunting, fishing, hiking, and generally good fraternity around the dinner table and the bonfire. It is most relaxing and it is always good to see such dear friends -- real brothers in the priesthood. The trip should aid my taking it easy and resting up!
If I have any stories or photos of the reunion to share, I will do so in a future post some time after January 9th.
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