Hamburger in paradise
Today I am running around on my day off doing some odds and ends while trying to get ready to head up to Wichita for the annual retreat (that's the paradise part) for the priests of the Archdiocese. But before I leave this afternoon, today is the debut of the Hamilton hamburger at the Sunrise Cafe in town! You can guess where I will be for lunch. After the Hamilton, I head out on the great American interstate system. Keep the priests in your prayers, that we may have a good retreat.
Monday, September 25, 2006
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
Away, My Friends! We Make Our Stand At Helm's Deep!
Pardon the martial language, but this reminds so much of a David versus Goliath situation. One group has all the money, the other stands for right. And as much as we want David to win, Goliath could crush just as well. So, we must take up the arms we have at our disposal and storm the heavens. Intercede to St. Michael and to St. Thomas Aquinas, the defenders of the Word. We might not be the advance wing; we could be the calvary.
Pardon the martial language, but this reminds so much of a David versus Goliath situation. One group has all the money, the other stands for right. And as much as we want David to win, Goliath could crush just as well. So, we must take up the arms we have at our disposal and storm the heavens. Intercede to St. Michael and to St. Thomas Aquinas, the defenders of the Word. We might not be the advance wing; we could be the calvary.
And how did I miss this?
In a turn of roles (I'm not usually the blogger on CRM who makes witty cultural observations and connections to the Faith), I reported recently (rather cynically) that I was concerned NBC might think Meredith Veiera's start on the Today Show is tantamount to the answer to all of mankind's needs. In other words, my fear is that NBC's thinks the "New Day" on the Today Show is equivalent to the Second Coming. (As there were no comments on that post of mine, I take it no one really thought my observation was all that witty. I suppose I should just leave the cultural commentary to Fr. Tharp. [Licking my wounds now]).
And what did I catch today? Still more evidence of my claim.
I had totally missed that Meredith also hosts "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire". Given our worldwide press for money and more and more of it ... could this be more evidence that Meredith is the returning Savior? How did I miss this?
In a turn of roles (I'm not usually the blogger on CRM who makes witty cultural observations and connections to the Faith), I reported recently (rather cynically) that I was concerned NBC might think Meredith Veiera's start on the Today Show is tantamount to the answer to all of mankind's needs. In other words, my fear is that NBC's thinks the "New Day" on the Today Show is equivalent to the Second Coming. (As there were no comments on that post of mine, I take it no one really thought my observation was all that witty. I suppose I should just leave the cultural commentary to Fr. Tharp. [Licking my wounds now]).
And what did I catch today? Still more evidence of my claim.
I had totally missed that Meredith also hosts "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire". Given our worldwide press for money and more and more of it ... could this be more evidence that Meredith is the returning Savior? How did I miss this?
Monday, September 18, 2006
A whopper of an honor
After RCIA last evening, one of the attendees who co-owns (with another parishioner) the local Sunrise Cafe approached with some rather unique news. He and the other parishioner purchased this business a few weeks ago. They have painted and changed decor in the cafe and will soon be updating the menu. So what was the news?
Well, apparently in a couple of weeks the new menu will feature a hamburger selection known as "The Hamilton" in my honor. You can imagine my surprise. In fact, as this man was telling me about the idea, I was sort of loosely following the discussion but I couldn't quite wrap my mind around the notion that he was seriously going to have a hamburger on the menu named after me. At one point, I just looked at him and I said, "What? I'm missing something here." So, when he clarified that a hamburger would bear my name, I just started laughing. The Hamilton will be a hamburger patty, topped with sauteed, caramelized onions, hickory sauce, cheese, and (this is the key ingredient that makes it "The Hamilton") hickory smoked bacon. I guess word has gotten around the parish that as far as I am concerned with things culinary -- put bacon on it and I am there!
So, if life brings you through Kingfisher, the Hamilton will be a menu option in about two weeks. I told this kind man that I was honored by the hamburger idea so long as it wasn't "half-baked"!
After RCIA last evening, one of the attendees who co-owns (with another parishioner) the local Sunrise Cafe approached with some rather unique news. He and the other parishioner purchased this business a few weeks ago. They have painted and changed decor in the cafe and will soon be updating the menu. So what was the news?
Well, apparently in a couple of weeks the new menu will feature a hamburger selection known as "The Hamilton" in my honor. You can imagine my surprise. In fact, as this man was telling me about the idea, I was sort of loosely following the discussion but I couldn't quite wrap my mind around the notion that he was seriously going to have a hamburger on the menu named after me. At one point, I just looked at him and I said, "What? I'm missing something here." So, when he clarified that a hamburger would bear my name, I just started laughing. The Hamilton will be a hamburger patty, topped with sauteed, caramelized onions, hickory sauce, cheese, and (this is the key ingredient that makes it "The Hamilton") hickory smoked bacon. I guess word has gotten around the parish that as far as I am concerned with things culinary -- put bacon on it and I am there!
So, if life brings you through Kingfisher, the Hamilton will be a menu option in about two weeks. I told this kind man that I was honored by the hamburger idea so long as it wasn't "half-baked"!
Annual re-tracing of the steps
It has gradually become a family tradition. Each year I go to the State Fair with my mom and step-dad. We follow roughly the same path, passing the same food vendors, walking through the same exhibit halls, seeing the interesting sea of humanity, commenting on the outrageous nature of deep fried snickers, twinkies, and oreo cookies, and -- we like to joke -- having practically the same conversation each year. And we love it. We don't really do the rides, but we like to walk the exhibit halls and see the animals on display while enjoying ridiculous amounts of food.
We made our visit tonight and I just got back from it. It was a nice evening and the weather was great. Now the year-long countdown begins until I can next enjoy grilled corn on the cob, meatball subs, funnel cakes, cheese streudel, beer, and fresh squeezed lemonade!
It has gradually become a family tradition. Each year I go to the State Fair with my mom and step-dad. We follow roughly the same path, passing the same food vendors, walking through the same exhibit halls, seeing the interesting sea of humanity, commenting on the outrageous nature of deep fried snickers, twinkies, and oreo cookies, and -- we like to joke -- having practically the same conversation each year. And we love it. We don't really do the rides, but we like to walk the exhibit halls and see the animals on display while enjoying ridiculous amounts of food.
We made our visit tonight and I just got back from it. It was a nice evening and the weather was great. Now the year-long countdown begins until I can next enjoy grilled corn on the cob, meatball subs, funnel cakes, cheese streudel, beer, and fresh squeezed lemonade!
Saturday, September 16, 2006
Not to cast aspersions on the thin-skinned...
There are days when I see Islam as a serious spiritual threat. And then there are days like today where after the Holy Father apologized for any hurt feelings he may have caused (without withdrawing the sentiments expressed, mind you), that I see Islam for the fragile player it is. Granted I was whipped into a frenzy after the Da Vinci Code hit the streets, but that doesn't equate with the worldwide Islamic response. It seems that in some sectors (and again, I stress, some sectors) violence and vituperation is the only response they know or can go with. Perhaps those vocal dissenters would like to show us how the words of an emperor dead for over 600 years were wrong. Built any hospitals lately?
It's probably impolitic of me to say this but it highlights the difference between a religion and the culture within which the religion grows. As a religion, Islam has many commendable aspects, including but not limited to monotheism. As a culture, however, that seems a different story. In certain sectors of the world, it looks like (again, I stress, it looks like) Mohammed and the caliph have shaken hands and decided the world's ways are our ways. That simply won't do.
I could make similar observations about Catholics in America. Fr. H and I were discussing last night the difference in importance in people's priorities between high school football, those elusive Friday Night Lights, and Sunday Mass attendance. As a religion, the Catholic faith has much to commend, including but not limited to the fullness of Christian faith. As a culture, people need to decide whose side they are on. The repeated refrain is "We can't make it on Sunday; we're too busy," is drowned out by the chanting, lightly beer-soaked crowds arriving at the local high school, cheering on their son to "murder the bums" so that a lucrative college scholarship is in the offing. (By the way, that notion of a sports scholarship has struck me lately as contradictory. Are they getting the money for school because they are an athlete or because they are a scholar?) Suggest to the parent, however, that little Billy might have a priestly vocation and they cover their faces with horror. "He can't become a priest?! I have to have grandchildren!" And then I note in my head that they have two kids only -- the rest is better left uncommented upon. I would like to hope that it is some sort of organic infertility issue. Then again, contraceptive sales top over a billion dollars each year. You do the math.
If Islam is going to survive, it has to allow criticism and a recognition of the past. The problem here, I suspect, lies with a defective, virtually absent notion of forgiveness in Islam. I don't claim to be a religions of the world expert but my limited reading suggests that this is at the heart of the matter. You can't accept criticism if can't seek forgiveness.
There are days when I see Islam as a serious spiritual threat. And then there are days like today where after the Holy Father apologized for any hurt feelings he may have caused (without withdrawing the sentiments expressed, mind you), that I see Islam for the fragile player it is. Granted I was whipped into a frenzy after the Da Vinci Code hit the streets, but that doesn't equate with the worldwide Islamic response. It seems that in some sectors (and again, I stress, some sectors) violence and vituperation is the only response they know or can go with. Perhaps those vocal dissenters would like to show us how the words of an emperor dead for over 600 years were wrong. Built any hospitals lately?
It's probably impolitic of me to say this but it highlights the difference between a religion and the culture within which the religion grows. As a religion, Islam has many commendable aspects, including but not limited to monotheism. As a culture, however, that seems a different story. In certain sectors of the world, it looks like (again, I stress, it looks like) Mohammed and the caliph have shaken hands and decided the world's ways are our ways. That simply won't do.
I could make similar observations about Catholics in America. Fr. H and I were discussing last night the difference in importance in people's priorities between high school football, those elusive Friday Night Lights, and Sunday Mass attendance. As a religion, the Catholic faith has much to commend, including but not limited to the fullness of Christian faith. As a culture, people need to decide whose side they are on. The repeated refrain is "We can't make it on Sunday; we're too busy," is drowned out by the chanting, lightly beer-soaked crowds arriving at the local high school, cheering on their son to "murder the bums" so that a lucrative college scholarship is in the offing. (By the way, that notion of a sports scholarship has struck me lately as contradictory. Are they getting the money for school because they are an athlete or because they are a scholar?) Suggest to the parent, however, that little Billy might have a priestly vocation and they cover their faces with horror. "He can't become a priest?! I have to have grandchildren!" And then I note in my head that they have two kids only -- the rest is better left uncommented upon. I would like to hope that it is some sort of organic infertility issue. Then again, contraceptive sales top over a billion dollars each year. You do the math.
If Islam is going to survive, it has to allow criticism and a recognition of the past. The problem here, I suspect, lies with a defective, virtually absent notion of forgiveness in Islam. I don't claim to be a religions of the world expert but my limited reading suggests that this is at the heart of the matter. You can't accept criticism if can't seek forgiveness.
Friday, September 15, 2006
W.W.P.D.?
What Would Popeye Do? What a bizarre story that bagged spinach apparently is a risky item right now. Who would have thought it? I guess, Popeye's consumption wouldn't have been altered since he always ate it from a can. Be careful folks.
What Would Popeye Do? What a bizarre story that bagged spinach apparently is a risky item right now. Who would have thought it? I guess, Popeye's consumption wouldn't have been altered since he always ate it from a can. Be careful folks.
Once more into the breach, dear friends, once more!
So, you probably remember our early conversation about Catholicism From Scratch. It's my program designed to give the average Catholic a leg up and get everyone to the same starting point for adult formation. I know, what a nutty project to be working on; no adult really wants or needs further formation. Stage one entailed showing the Footprints of God series by Steve Ray and then fielding questions. (I did mention that Steve is going to be at the Oklahoma Men's Conference, right? Oh, okay. Steve Ray is going to be at the Oklahoma Men's Conference. Pass it on.)
Anyhoo, at Alva and Waynoka, we have reached the second stage of the program. The next logic step, it seemed to me, was to introduce the parishioners to the Bible in a way that will get them to open the book and get reading. Hence, we are now in the midst of the Great Adventure series from Ascension Press. Over the next 8 weeks, approximately 20 parishioners will be led to see the big picture of the Bible and thus, hopefully, understand it better. The unique thing I try to bring to any Bible study that I do is connecting the study to prayer. Namely, I try to teach Lectio Divina and demonstrate all the ways in which the Church uses Sacred Scripture to pray. But here's where I need your help.
Thus far, I have brought up the general notion and used my Benedictine background to teach a general method. So that they stay connected to the Sunday Mass, I am recommended the Sunday Gospels for their practice. In the following weeks, I intend to work through the Augustinian method, the Ignatian method, the Escrivan method (that assume I can find the notes I had on the subject), Scripture and Devotions, and the Liturgy of the Hours. By my count that leaves me two sessions short. Are any of you familiar with Lectio method which I haven't mentioned here?
So, you probably remember our early conversation about Catholicism From Scratch. It's my program designed to give the average Catholic a leg up and get everyone to the same starting point for adult formation. I know, what a nutty project to be working on; no adult really wants or needs further formation. Stage one entailed showing the Footprints of God series by Steve Ray and then fielding questions. (I did mention that Steve is going to be at the Oklahoma Men's Conference, right? Oh, okay. Steve Ray is going to be at the Oklahoma Men's Conference. Pass it on.)
Anyhoo, at Alva and Waynoka, we have reached the second stage of the program. The next logic step, it seemed to me, was to introduce the parishioners to the Bible in a way that will get them to open the book and get reading. Hence, we are now in the midst of the Great Adventure series from Ascension Press. Over the next 8 weeks, approximately 20 parishioners will be led to see the big picture of the Bible and thus, hopefully, understand it better. The unique thing I try to bring to any Bible study that I do is connecting the study to prayer. Namely, I try to teach Lectio Divina and demonstrate all the ways in which the Church uses Sacred Scripture to pray. But here's where I need your help.
Thus far, I have brought up the general notion and used my Benedictine background to teach a general method. So that they stay connected to the Sunday Mass, I am recommended the Sunday Gospels for their practice. In the following weeks, I intend to work through the Augustinian method, the Ignatian method, the Escrivan method (that assume I can find the notes I had on the subject), Scripture and Devotions, and the Liturgy of the Hours. By my count that leaves me two sessions short. Are any of you familiar with Lectio method which I haven't mentioned here?
How did I miss this one?
1.) I missed it because the chatfest in question sounds like on a good day, pops and clicks and on a bad day, the scretching of cats caterwauling.
2.) Because of reason 1, I had not been looking for defense from TV mavens who want attention. (Sub-point: As I recall, Rosie was raised in a Catholic household. At least, this is what infered from her comedic performances.)
3.) Because of reason 2, I only found this today when looking at Mark Shea's little virtual cube of the internet.
So, in conclusion, for whatever it's worth, thank you, Rabbi. It's much appreciated and I hope to return the favor sometime soon.
1.) I missed it because the chatfest in question sounds like on a good day, pops and clicks and on a bad day, the scretching of cats caterwauling.
2.) Because of reason 1, I had not been looking for defense from TV mavens who want attention. (Sub-point: As I recall, Rosie was raised in a Catholic household. At least, this is what infered from her comedic performances.)
3.) Because of reason 2, I only found this today when looking at Mark Shea's little virtual cube of the internet.
So, in conclusion, for whatever it's worth, thank you, Rabbi. It's much appreciated and I hope to return the favor sometime soon.
Big changes
take effect today for the Church Universal and the operations of Vatican City State. Today, the previously announced papal appointments of a new Secretary of State and a new President of the Pontifical Commission for Vatican City State (the "Governor" of Vatican City State) take effect.
His Eminence Cardinal Sodano has officially retired and he is replaced by His Eminence Cardinal Bertone as the new Secretary of State of the Holy See.
His Eminence Cardinal Szoka (an American) has officially retired and he is replaced by His Excellency, Archbishop Lajolo as the new President of the Pontifical Commission for Vatican City State, commonly referred to as the Governor of Vatican City State.
Just keeping you abreast of the activity of the Holy See...
take effect today for the Church Universal and the operations of Vatican City State. Today, the previously announced papal appointments of a new Secretary of State and a new President of the Pontifical Commission for Vatican City State (the "Governor" of Vatican City State) take effect.
His Eminence Cardinal Sodano has officially retired and he is replaced by His Eminence Cardinal Bertone as the new Secretary of State of the Holy See.
His Eminence Cardinal Szoka (an American) has officially retired and he is replaced by His Excellency, Archbishop Lajolo as the new President of the Pontifical Commission for Vatican City State, commonly referred to as the Governor of Vatican City State.
Just keeping you abreast of the activity of the Holy See...
Thursday, September 14, 2006
Hilarity erupts on Relevant Radio!
I hope many readers were able to catch Fr. Tharp's participation earlier today in a panel discussion on Catholic blogging aired on Relevant Radio. After I finished a marriage preparation appointment (and before another one later on) I caught a small portion of the program.
Fr. Tharp and others were fielding questions from callers and speaking eloquently about the far reach of blogging and the responsibility of Catholic bloggers to present the truth in charity. Then a crazy idea came to me as the program was going to commercial. What if I called in to the show to present a question/comment to the panel?
I called and got right in queue for the show. When it came back from commercial and they took the call, I was announced as Fr. Stephen. I think that momentarily hid my identity from Fr. Tharp. The final comment Fr. Tharp made before my question was that Catholic bloggers must guard the theological accuracy of their posts. So, I entered the discussion with these words: "Yes, I want to echo that theological accuracy is crucial, which is why I am now joining the program (dramatic pause). But the real question I have for the panel is, why are certain priest bloggers included in this discussion today and others are excluded? I mean, if this were truly catholic, it would be a bit more universal." By this time, most of the panel were laughing as we all anticipated Fr. Tharp's response to such a question (read: accusation) from his co-blogger.
It was pretty darn funny, I thought. I don't know if many listeners realized I am Fr. Tharp's co-blogger or not. Regardless, I thought it showed some good nature from the folks at Relevant Radio to quickly put me on for a few moments of fun. Again, cudos to Relevant Radio and, of course, to Fr. Tharp!
I hope many readers were able to catch Fr. Tharp's participation earlier today in a panel discussion on Catholic blogging aired on Relevant Radio. After I finished a marriage preparation appointment (and before another one later on) I caught a small portion of the program.
Fr. Tharp and others were fielding questions from callers and speaking eloquently about the far reach of blogging and the responsibility of Catholic bloggers to present the truth in charity. Then a crazy idea came to me as the program was going to commercial. What if I called in to the show to present a question/comment to the panel?
I called and got right in queue for the show. When it came back from commercial and they took the call, I was announced as Fr. Stephen. I think that momentarily hid my identity from Fr. Tharp. The final comment Fr. Tharp made before my question was that Catholic bloggers must guard the theological accuracy of their posts. So, I entered the discussion with these words: "Yes, I want to echo that theological accuracy is crucial, which is why I am now joining the program (dramatic pause). But the real question I have for the panel is, why are certain priest bloggers included in this discussion today and others are excluded? I mean, if this were truly catholic, it would be a bit more universal." By this time, most of the panel were laughing as we all anticipated Fr. Tharp's response to such a question (read: accusation) from his co-blogger.
It was pretty darn funny, I thought. I don't know if many listeners realized I am Fr. Tharp's co-blogger or not. Regardless, I thought it showed some good nature from the folks at Relevant Radio to quickly put me on for a few moments of fun. Again, cudos to Relevant Radio and, of course, to Fr. Tharp!
Fair and Balanced?
I was listening to Teresa Tommeo on Catholic Exchange and she brought up a really important point concerning Katie Couric.
Apparently, when she was on the Today show, Katie interviewed Whoopi Goldberg. Whoopi is an ardent pro-choice advocate and she referenced the fact that Katie and her attended a pro-choice rally together. Katie tried to write this off, but it is important to note that as a journalist, unless she there to cover it, she ought not participate lest she favor one side over another. As an opinion piece, that's fine; as a news report, that's not acceptable.
Hmmmm, I wonder what would have happened if it had been the National Prolife March...
I was listening to Teresa Tommeo on Catholic Exchange and she brought up a really important point concerning Katie Couric.
Apparently, when she was on the Today show, Katie interviewed Whoopi Goldberg. Whoopi is an ardent pro-choice advocate and she referenced the fact that Katie and her attended a pro-choice rally together. Katie tried to write this off, but it is important to note that as a journalist, unless she there to cover it, she ought not participate lest she favor one side over another. As an opinion piece, that's fine; as a news report, that's not acceptable.
Hmmmm, I wonder what would have happened if it had been the National Prolife March...
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
It's A New Day...
...with the same ol' format, the same ol' fluff, and thankfully for us, no second coming since Meredith was being advertised like the second coming.
...with the same ol' format, the same ol' fluff, and thankfully for us, no second coming since Meredith was being advertised like the second coming.
I Guess She is still Not Getting the Hint...
I know, I know, I know. I have harped on this occurance more than my fair share. However, I am sensing that something else is up here. I had this sort of a run-in with my niece, I got the sense that two things was happening: 1.) she wanted to be heard and 2.) she wanted someone to direct her forward but wasn't comfortable directly asking for that help. In a bigger way, I sense this from Madonna's antics.
In the end, I hope that this is the last, exhausted yalp of rebellion against her Catholic upbringing. Perhaps a "Hail Mary" offered for her behalf would be good.
I know, I know, I know. I have harped on this occurance more than my fair share. However, I am sensing that something else is up here. I had this sort of a run-in with my niece, I got the sense that two things was happening: 1.) she wanted to be heard and 2.) she wanted someone to direct her forward but wasn't comfortable directly asking for that help. In a bigger way, I sense this from Madonna's antics.
In the end, I hope that this is the last, exhausted yalp of rebellion against her Catholic upbringing. Perhaps a "Hail Mary" offered for her behalf would be good.
Notes from the First Ministerial Alliance Meeting:That's What I Get From Volunteering
So, today was the first meeting of Alva's ministerial alliance. For those not in the know, ministerial alliances are ecumenical efforts between Christian ministers in a particular area for various good causes. I have noticed, at least as Oklahoma goes, that ministerial alliances are much more prevelant in rural areas rather than the bigger cities. In general, I find the meetings stimulating and often instructive on speaking to non-Catholics about the Catholic Faith. It's evangelization all the time in my office.
Anyway, today was our first meeting of the new year and we had to get some basic committees in place. The biggest one is the Thanksgiving Service committee. It has been the tradition in Alva to have an ecumenical prayer service the Sunday before Thanksgiving. When I was new in town, I was extended the privilege of preaching that service. As I recall I preached on the text of the man born blind, noting that even adversity leads to thanksgiving for it puts us in the path of God's intervention and glorification, or something like that. When the topic came up, I was the first to volunteer to assist in this service. I don't know why I volunteered other than I thought I could make a good contribution there. But that isn't the end of this.
When the topic of who'd chair the committee came up, I heard the line I dreaded. "Well, you volunteered first; you're the chair." So now I have to get moving on yet another project which hopefully won't absorb too much time on the side. But that's what you get for volunteering. Some one asks for one mile and you are called upon to give two. We'll keep you informed of progress.
So, today was the first meeting of Alva's ministerial alliance. For those not in the know, ministerial alliances are ecumenical efforts between Christian ministers in a particular area for various good causes. I have noticed, at least as Oklahoma goes, that ministerial alliances are much more prevelant in rural areas rather than the bigger cities. In general, I find the meetings stimulating and often instructive on speaking to non-Catholics about the Catholic Faith. It's evangelization all the time in my office.
Anyway, today was our first meeting of the new year and we had to get some basic committees in place. The biggest one is the Thanksgiving Service committee. It has been the tradition in Alva to have an ecumenical prayer service the Sunday before Thanksgiving. When I was new in town, I was extended the privilege of preaching that service. As I recall I preached on the text of the man born blind, noting that even adversity leads to thanksgiving for it puts us in the path of God's intervention and glorification, or something like that. When the topic came up, I was the first to volunteer to assist in this service. I don't know why I volunteered other than I thought I could make a good contribution there. But that isn't the end of this.
When the topic of who'd chair the committee came up, I heard the line I dreaded. "Well, you volunteered first; you're the chair." So now I have to get moving on yet another project which hopefully won't absorb too much time on the side. But that's what you get for volunteering. Some one asks for one mile and you are called upon to give two. We'll keep you informed of progress.
Comments Anyone?
While the language of the article is a little inflammatory, I have to concur with the general observation. When the heart and mind are not actively and consciously drawn toward God, then it is hard to sense how God is relevant to your life at large. I can say for myself that my sensistivity to the call to the priesthood began from a sense of gratitude of God's abiding presence in my life. I thought, "God and the Church have given so much to me; perhaps I am called to give back to them."
While the language of the article is a little inflammatory, I have to concur with the general observation. When the heart and mind are not actively and consciously drawn toward God, then it is hard to sense how God is relevant to your life at large. I can say for myself that my sensistivity to the call to the priesthood began from a sense of gratitude of God's abiding presence in my life. I thought, "God and the Church have given so much to me; perhaps I am called to give back to them."
Jumping on the Bandwagon Again
The following post is a note of thanks to my co-blogger, Fr. Hamilton. It takes a true friend to call you to task and in a loving way express their concern for your well-being.
Fr. Hamilton called and asked about what I was doing to improve my health and lose weight. As he put it, "we (meaning the Church at large) need you around for many years to come." Granted, I have all my life fought my weight, and largely losing the war. When it comes down to practical considerations, I think it stems from the fact that I am not particularly temperate as a person. If one serving is good, three are better. I would speculate that some of it has to do with, given my irregular upbringing, defective self-comfort rituals. You know this as "This cookie will make you feel better" reasoning. So, as you can see there is a substantial work ahead.
Here's the strategy at hand. First, I am going to visit some doctors, namely a nutrionist, an endocrinologist, and an allergy specialist, to clear obvious roadblocks which are not directly in my power to affect. After all, if my thryoid isn't working, this needs its own direction and treatment. Second, I am getting back to the gym. Luckily, we have a wellness center at the university, so I can look forward to extra evangelization time while sweating on the treadmill. The plan here at the outset is to spend the first 6 weeks or so just doing the weight loss setting on the treadmill and going from there. Before lifting weights, I think I could use some cardio strengthening. Third, and this agrivates me to no end, I am going to join Weight Watchers. I sat down and thought about it and the one thing that has hindered my progess is an absence of accountablity for holding to the course. Thankfully, Fr. H, who also is looking to trim down, will be accompanying me. We are planning to meet in Enid as that is conveniently located to both of us.
I am telling you all this so that you will remember to pray for one of the weakest priests out there. I know that this is something I need to work at and I need as much help as possible.
The following post is a note of thanks to my co-blogger, Fr. Hamilton. It takes a true friend to call you to task and in a loving way express their concern for your well-being.
Fr. Hamilton called and asked about what I was doing to improve my health and lose weight. As he put it, "we (meaning the Church at large) need you around for many years to come." Granted, I have all my life fought my weight, and largely losing the war. When it comes down to practical considerations, I think it stems from the fact that I am not particularly temperate as a person. If one serving is good, three are better. I would speculate that some of it has to do with, given my irregular upbringing, defective self-comfort rituals. You know this as "This cookie will make you feel better" reasoning. So, as you can see there is a substantial work ahead.
Here's the strategy at hand. First, I am going to visit some doctors, namely a nutrionist, an endocrinologist, and an allergy specialist, to clear obvious roadblocks which are not directly in my power to affect. After all, if my thryoid isn't working, this needs its own direction and treatment. Second, I am getting back to the gym. Luckily, we have a wellness center at the university, so I can look forward to extra evangelization time while sweating on the treadmill. The plan here at the outset is to spend the first 6 weeks or so just doing the weight loss setting on the treadmill and going from there. Before lifting weights, I think I could use some cardio strengthening. Third, and this agrivates me to no end, I am going to join Weight Watchers. I sat down and thought about it and the one thing that has hindered my progess is an absence of accountablity for holding to the course. Thankfully, Fr. H, who also is looking to trim down, will be accompanying me. We are planning to meet in Enid as that is conveniently located to both of us.
I am telling you all this so that you will remember to pray for one of the weakest priests out there. I know that this is something I need to work at and I need as much help as possible.
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Guilted into posting
I'm only going to publicize one reason I have been guilted into posting, though another reason (read: another blogger) is also operative. If you subscribe to the National Catholic Register, you may have read in the latest issue (Volume 82, #36, Sept. 10-16) that Catholic Ragemonkey was listed as the #1 priest blog in a Top Ten priest blog list made by Eric Scheske. His article on priest bloggers can be found on page B2 of the issue in the Arts & Culture page, an article entitled "Collared Commentary: Priests in the blogosphere". Due to the article, I feel I need to put a post up so that people aren't disappointed or think Eric's confidence in us ill-advised.
We here at CRM thank Eric for his vote of confidence, his support, and publicity. We welcome any new readers who are coming to us thanks to Eric's article. We also want to make a few things absolutely clear:
We have no previous relationship with Eric that might explain our #1 ranking.
We were not consulted on this article.
We did not pay for this article; nor are we being paid for it.
We only found out about this article and the happy ranking when others mentioned it to us.
Furthermore, as a result of this article run in the Legionaries of Christ publication (the aforementioned National Catholic Register) Fr. Tharp and I have absolutely NO plans to begin wearing double breasted suits with our clerical collars.
I, however, do pledge to our readers that I plan to begin using more hair gel!
In all seriousness, thanks Eric; and, welcome to any and all new readers.
I'm only going to publicize one reason I have been guilted into posting, though another reason (read: another blogger) is also operative. If you subscribe to the National Catholic Register, you may have read in the latest issue (Volume 82, #36, Sept. 10-16) that Catholic Ragemonkey was listed as the #1 priest blog in a Top Ten priest blog list made by Eric Scheske. His article on priest bloggers can be found on page B2 of the issue in the Arts & Culture page, an article entitled "Collared Commentary: Priests in the blogosphere". Due to the article, I feel I need to put a post up so that people aren't disappointed or think Eric's confidence in us ill-advised.
We here at CRM thank Eric for his vote of confidence, his support, and publicity. We welcome any new readers who are coming to us thanks to Eric's article. We also want to make a few things absolutely clear:
We have no previous relationship with Eric that might explain our #1 ranking.
We were not consulted on this article.
We did not pay for this article; nor are we being paid for it.
We only found out about this article and the happy ranking when others mentioned it to us.
Furthermore, as a result of this article run in the Legionaries of Christ publication (the aforementioned National Catholic Register) Fr. Tharp and I have absolutely NO plans to begin wearing double breasted suits with our clerical collars.
I, however, do pledge to our readers that I plan to begin using more hair gel!
In all seriousness, thanks Eric; and, welcome to any and all new readers.
The Lord's return in glory is upon us...
If you read this post before the strike of midnight, when it is still Tuesday, September 12, 2006, you still have time to prepare. If you read this post when it is already September 13, 2006, then it is already here: The Second Coming, the end of time, the return of the Universal Judge.
At least that's the way I feel when NBC plays that "It's a new day" jingle every five minutes to annouce that the new Today Show co-host (Meredith something) starts her first day at work on September 13, 2006! I suppose I am cynical, but it has gotten to a point that when I hear that jingle, I can't help but think: "Now, wait a minute, NBC, let's sit down for a moment. I hate to bring this up, but, well, you all really think that the fulfillment of the Supreme Being's promises to mankind are being manifested in this "new day," don't you? I mean, you sort of think that the solution to all of our problems, the collective needs of our common humanity, our hopes and dreams for the future are coming to pass in the "new day" of a Today Show anchor, right?"
And my response to that if I could show this were the attitude of NBC? "Yeah, that's what I was afraid of. In that case, yeah, the Judge may, in fact, be here."
If you read this post before the strike of midnight, when it is still Tuesday, September 12, 2006, you still have time to prepare. If you read this post when it is already September 13, 2006, then it is already here: The Second Coming, the end of time, the return of the Universal Judge.
At least that's the way I feel when NBC plays that "It's a new day" jingle every five minutes to annouce that the new Today Show co-host (Meredith something) starts her first day at work on September 13, 2006! I suppose I am cynical, but it has gotten to a point that when I hear that jingle, I can't help but think: "Now, wait a minute, NBC, let's sit down for a moment. I hate to bring this up, but, well, you all really think that the fulfillment of the Supreme Being's promises to mankind are being manifested in this "new day," don't you? I mean, you sort of think that the solution to all of our problems, the collective needs of our common humanity, our hopes and dreams for the future are coming to pass in the "new day" of a Today Show anchor, right?"
And my response to that if I could show this were the attitude of NBC? "Yeah, that's what I was afraid of. In that case, yeah, the Judge may, in fact, be here."
Friday, September 01, 2006
This just keeps getting more and more interesting...
Fr. H tipped me off to this aspect of the appointment of Bishop-Elect Swain which I had overlooked. I find this really interesting in that it is conventional wisdom, at least among a certain segment of the clergy with which I speak, that being a convert is an automatic "veto" on being named a bishop. As the last 20 years has seen a dramatic uptick in the number of converts amongst the clergy, it will be interesting to see how this shakes out.
Fr. H tipped me off to this aspect of the appointment of Bishop-Elect Swain which I had overlooked. I find this really interesting in that it is conventional wisdom, at least among a certain segment of the clergy with which I speak, that being a convert is an automatic "veto" on being named a bishop. As the last 20 years has seen a dramatic uptick in the number of converts amongst the clergy, it will be interesting to see how this shakes out.
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