The Obama administration is moving to rescind a federal rule that reinforced protections for medical providers who refuse to perform abortions or other procedures on moral grounds, an official said Friday.
A Health and Human Services official said the administration will publish notice of its intentions early next week, and open a 30-day comment period for advocates, medical groups and the public. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because the official notice has not been completed.
Go to CNS for the whole story.
I wonder where all of the Catholics for Obama stand on this one? Do they support it (as they support the great leader) or do they find this objectionable that those who claim to be the biggest supporters of choice, refuse choice to others?
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Friday, February 27, 2009
Catholic Charities and some Notable Guests.
This week's Catholic Standard has an article describing how the Catholic Charities Foundation gala raised apx. $1.2 million. That is a wonderful amount and can help do a world of good.
On the other hand, it pains me to see that one of the notable's at the dinner to be highlighted in the Standard's article was Rep. Chris Van Hollen. At a Catholic event we have a politician* who:
- Voted YES on expanding research to more embryonic stem cell lines. (Jan 2007)
- Voted YES on allowing human embryonic stem cell research. (May 2005)
- Voted NO on restricting interstate transport of minors to get abortions. (Apr 2005)
- Voted NO on making it a crime to harm a fetus during another crime. (Feb 2004)
- Voted NO on banning partial-birth abortion except to save mother’s life. (Oct 2003)
- Voted NO on forbidding human cloning for reproduction & medical research. (Feb 2003)
- Rated 100% by NARAL, indicating a pro-choice voting record. (Dec 2003)
- Emergency contraception for rape victims at all hospitals. (Sep 2006)
- Rated 0% by the NRLC, indicating a pro-choice stance. (Dec 2006)
- Provide emergency contraception at military facilities. (Apr 2007)
- Ensure access to and funding for contraception. (Feb 2007)
In addtion, the Standard has a half page advertisement (print version, page 15), which thanks a number of outstanding supporters, including:
- The Fannie Mae Foundation (who helped to give us the economic mess we are in)
- Chris "I get a chill up my leg" and Kathleen Mathews
- AFL-CIO and various trade unions (pro-abortion, pro-gay)
- The Washington Post (no friend of the Catholic Church)
If the Church will ban politicians from speaking at their schools and institutions, then why do they (1) allow these same politicians positive press coverage and (2) accept money from those who oppose some of our key teachings. They should refuse it.
I guess the money is more important.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Lent Has Begun
There are many blogs which discuss all aspects of Ash Wednesday: fasting, ashes, etc. And there is nothing wrong with it.
When I was growing up, there was a kid a couple of years older than me: Pete. Pete was a nice guy but took a lot of ribbing because he was so skinny.
Each year, a couple of us would ask Pete: “Hey Pete, what are you gonna give up for Lent?”
Each year, at least when he was a kid, he would tell us: “Watermelon and swimming.”
Now, watermelon was easy – it was not in season. And you could not get it, like you do today.
Swimming was too. There were no indoor pools near us and none of our parents would even think about bringing us to an indoor pool. Heck, most of them probably did not know they even existed.
So, as you enter Lent, think about what you are going to sacrifice. Maybe you will also do something more – such as praying or doing without that double cappuchino from Starbucks at least a couple of times per week (then give the dollars to a good Catholic charity).
When I was growing up, there was a kid a couple of years older than me: Pete. Pete was a nice guy but took a lot of ribbing because he was so skinny.
Each year, a couple of us would ask Pete: “Hey Pete, what are you gonna give up for Lent?”
Each year, at least when he was a kid, he would tell us: “Watermelon and swimming.”
Now, watermelon was easy – it was not in season. And you could not get it, like you do today.
Swimming was too. There were no indoor pools near us and none of our parents would even think about bringing us to an indoor pool. Heck, most of them probably did not know they even existed.
So, as you enter Lent, think about what you are going to sacrifice. Maybe you will also do something more – such as praying or doing without that double cappuchino from Starbucks at least a couple of times per week (then give the dollars to a good Catholic charity).
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Archibishop's Appeal 2009 - The Last Few Weeks
Well, for the last two weeks, the Appeal has been a central effort of most parishes in the Archdiocese of Washington DC. We have been asked to pray for those who give (and for those who do not give), bulletin announcements have been printed, direct mailings have been made, and a multitude of stories in the Catholic Standard.
A taped message, by Archbishop Wuerl, was played at each Mass. Sorry to say, when I could hear it, it was a pretty lackluster appeal.
Then, once again, we were given forms to complete. Now maybe the Archdiocese feels that it gets a better response by telling people to pick up the form, take a pencil, and fill in your last name, your name and the name of your spouse. Then enter in your address -- street, city and zip code. You get the idea.
Sorry, we are not idiots, contrary to popular opinion. We know how to complete the forms and if we want to, we will do it.
Once again, I urge you not to give.
As I have written before:
the most fundamental to me is the fact that we continue to let pro-abortion, anti-true marriage politicians continue to receive Holy Communion on our parishes, but say/do nothing. To me, that is the our current scandal.
Our clergy and religious celebrate the election of a pro-abortion politicians, or praise them when they have died.
We have anti-Church groups meeting on a regular basis in our parishes.
When pro-gay legislation is passed, our Archbishop remains silent.
But as I have said before, find a group that supports the teachings of the Magesterium or helps those less fortunate directly. Give the funds directly to them.
Then, and only then, with the Archbishop get the message.
A taped message, by Archbishop Wuerl, was played at each Mass. Sorry to say, when I could hear it, it was a pretty lackluster appeal.
Then, once again, we were given forms to complete. Now maybe the Archdiocese feels that it gets a better response by telling people to pick up the form, take a pencil, and fill in your last name, your name and the name of your spouse. Then enter in your address -- street, city and zip code. You get the idea.
Sorry, we are not idiots, contrary to popular opinion. We know how to complete the forms and if we want to, we will do it.
Once again, I urge you not to give.
As I have written before:
the most fundamental to me is the fact that we continue to let pro-abortion, anti-true marriage politicians continue to receive Holy Communion on our parishes, but say/do nothing. To me, that is the our current scandal.
Our clergy and religious celebrate the election of a pro-abortion politicians, or praise them when they have died.
We have anti-Church groups meeting on a regular basis in our parishes.
When pro-gay legislation is passed, our Archbishop remains silent.
But as I have said before, find a group that supports the teachings of the Magesterium or helps those less fortunate directly. Give the funds directly to them.
Then, and only then, with the Archbishop get the message.
Monday, February 23, 2009
On the Washington DC Metro..
The other day, I got on the DC Metro (the equivalent of a subway) and sat down. When I looked up, I saw the following advertisement from Project Rachael about their Hope After Abortion program.
I watched as the people got on the car that I was in. Most did not even look, burying their heads in their papers, books or listening to their iPods. A few looked but I could not make out any reaction.
Have you seen it? What did you think? Let me know.
++++++++++++++
From the Hope After Abortion website...
Some women,on their own or with professional help, are able to get beyond their grief, and find a measure of peace after abortion.
But other women continue to feel isolated and alone in their sadness, regret, anger and self-recrimination.
For over 16 years, women and men have been coming to Project Rachel, the post-abortion ministry of the Catholic Church, for help in healing their emotional and spiritual wounds. The priests and counselors in the Project Rachel network understand the pain and loss that follow abortion. They have led thousands of grieving women and men from despair to hope and peace.
Project Rachel has trained priests and professional counselors who can help you to heal spiritually and emotionally, no matter what faith tradition is yours.
If you are hurting because of abortion, we invite you to begin this journey. Call your local Project Rachel or similar ministry. If the number is not listed in the phone book, call the diocesan chancery (usually listed under 'Catholic Diocese of _______' or use directory assistance). In the Washington, D.C./Baltimore/ Northern Virginia areas, call 888.456.HOPE. For assistance elsewhere, refer to the national map showing all Project Rachel locations or call the National Office of Post-Abortion Reconciliation and Healing at 800.5WE.CARE.
UPDATE/CORRECTION (Dated March 15, 2009): A reader pointed out to me that this is Project Rachel and not Project Gabriel. I have corrected it above but also need to thank her for pointing out my error.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Who is John Galt?
Notice that there seems to be a swelling anger at the Most Merciful, Lord High Barack Obama?
Many seem to be saying: "I work hard. Pay my taxes. Pay my bills. Live within my means. And those who don't are going to get rewarded? What is going on here!"
The Most Mericful, Lord High Barack Obama has been president barely one month and already there is a groundswelling of anger and outrage about his socialistic policies.
I am just wondering when the USCCB and/or Maryland Catholic Conference (MCC) will come out swinging for these policies.
Many seem to be saying: "I work hard. Pay my taxes. Pay my bills. Live within my means. And those who don't are going to get rewarded? What is going on here!"
The Most Mericful, Lord High Barack Obama has been president barely one month and already there is a groundswelling of anger and outrage about his socialistic policies.
I am just wondering when the USCCB and/or Maryland Catholic Conference (MCC) will come out swinging for these policies.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
A Little Humor
A dog had followed his owner to local public elementary school.
His owner was a fourth grader at that same school.
However, when the bell rang, the dog sidled inside the building and made it all the way to the child's classroom before a teacher noticed and shooed him outside, closing the door behind him.
The dog sat down, whimpered and stared at the closed doors.
Then God appeared beside the dog, patted his head, and said,
'Don't feel bad fella'...they won't let ME in either'.
His owner was a fourth grader at that same school.
However, when the bell rang, the dog sidled inside the building and made it all the way to the child's classroom before a teacher noticed and shooed him outside, closing the door behind him.
The dog sat down, whimpered and stared at the closed doors.
Then God appeared beside the dog, patted his head, and said,
'Don't feel bad fella'...they won't let ME in either'.
Chavez and the Catholic Left - The Silence is Deafening.
A couple of years ago, I was having dinner with a local family, including their parents. The entire family was Catholic, although the dad was on the Catholic left.
During dinner, he waxed on and on about Hugo Chavez -- free education, free health care, the social programs, etc. Of course, we got into a heated political discussion. I saw him a Communist dictator who will bring the country down. He saw it as the new workers paradise, what every Catholic should push for.
Today, thanks to Hugo:
- Human Rights Watch representatives have been expelled from the country
- banning of Radio Caracal Television, one of the few voices of opposition, in 2007 (does the Fairness Doctrine come to mind here?)
- vandalism of the Caracas municipal city hall, with the destruction of all of the vehicles and equipment (since Hugo's man lost the local election)
- inflation is apx. 30%
- crime is 2.5 times higher then when Chavez took office
- Caracas is the murder capital of the world, with more crime than in Sao Paulo or Johannesburg
- PDVSA, the state run oil company, is rife with mismanagement and corruption.
- Oil production is only 25% of what it was when Chavez took office
- PDVSA has a debt of apx. $10 billion, with workers and contractors complaining of no salaries or payments for work done
So the other day I asked myself, after story after story about Hugao, where is the Social Justice/Catholic Left?
Almost a decade ago, Hugo was held up as the model of what the US should be and what is wrong with the US. He was to Catholic Left's role model. Today, we hear nothing about him from them.
++++++
Fight Maryland Senate Bill 238!
During dinner, he waxed on and on about Hugo Chavez -- free education, free health care, the social programs, etc. Of course, we got into a heated political discussion. I saw him a Communist dictator who will bring the country down. He saw it as the new workers paradise, what every Catholic should push for.
Today, thanks to Hugo:
- Human Rights Watch representatives have been expelled from the country
- banning of Radio Caracal Television, one of the few voices of opposition, in 2007 (does the Fairness Doctrine come to mind here?)
- vandalism of the Caracas municipal city hall, with the destruction of all of the vehicles and equipment (since Hugo's man lost the local election)
- inflation is apx. 30%
- crime is 2.5 times higher then when Chavez took office
- Caracas is the murder capital of the world, with more crime than in Sao Paulo or Johannesburg
- PDVSA, the state run oil company, is rife with mismanagement and corruption.
- Oil production is only 25% of what it was when Chavez took office
- PDVSA has a debt of apx. $10 billion, with workers and contractors complaining of no salaries or payments for work done
So the other day I asked myself, after story after story about Hugao, where is the Social Justice/Catholic Left?
Almost a decade ago, Hugo was held up as the model of what the US should be and what is wrong with the US. He was to Catholic Left's role model. Today, we hear nothing about him from them.
Maybe they have finally learned what many of us realized long ago, but cannot admit to it.
He is a typical socialist/communist dictator. Plain and simple.
Yet the Catholic Left/Social Justice crowd is silent.++++++
Fight Maryland Senate Bill 238!
Monday, February 16, 2009
Honor her? No, they should FIRE HER!
The USCCB issued a press release on February 12, 2009:
As part of its Annual Symposium, The Roundtable Association of Diocesan Social Action Directors will present Joan Rosenhauer, Associate Director of the Department of Justice, Peace and Human Development at the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) with the Harry A. Fagan Roundtable Award at the Hyatt Regency Hotel on Capitol Hill at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, February 21. The Roundtable selects one awardee annually who has made a lasting contribution to Catholic social action efforts, in light of Church teaching.
Most recent among her accomplishments, Rosenhauer had lead staff responsibility for the collaborative effort among many offices and bishops' committees at the USCCB in developing their 2007 document Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship, which aimed to educate Catholics on the social teachings of the Church in order for them to make morally responsible choices in their political participation. Rosenhauer was able to help bring to fruition a statement that garnered widespread support among the U.S. bishops who voted almost unanimously in favor of its acceptance.
The document sold almost two million copies prior to the election. It reached people in parishes in almost every diocese in the country with Rosenhauer touring much of the nation herself, teaching about the document and training others to share its teaching as well.
In my opinion it was this document that lead to so much confusion among Catholics, giving the Catholic left, the "out" to vote for the Most Merciful, Lord High Barack Obama. It also allowed them to sow seeds of confusion and dissent among the faithful.
No, she should not be honored for this.
She SHOULD BE FIRED and ANYONE WHO VOTED FOR HER SHOULD BE FIRED.
The USCCB has once again shown that they cannot be trusted. The USCCB should be shut down and completely reformed.
The USCCB gets the "Slap off the Back of the Head Award" for another bonehead move.
As part of its Annual Symposium, The Roundtable Association of Diocesan Social Action Directors will present Joan Rosenhauer, Associate Director of the Department of Justice, Peace and Human Development at the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) with the Harry A. Fagan Roundtable Award at the Hyatt Regency Hotel on Capitol Hill at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, February 21. The Roundtable selects one awardee annually who has made a lasting contribution to Catholic social action efforts, in light of Church teaching.
Most recent among her accomplishments, Rosenhauer had lead staff responsibility for the collaborative effort among many offices and bishops' committees at the USCCB in developing their 2007 document Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship, which aimed to educate Catholics on the social teachings of the Church in order for them to make morally responsible choices in their political participation. Rosenhauer was able to help bring to fruition a statement that garnered widespread support among the U.S. bishops who voted almost unanimously in favor of its acceptance.
The document sold almost two million copies prior to the election. It reached people in parishes in almost every diocese in the country with Rosenhauer touring much of the nation herself, teaching about the document and training others to share its teaching as well.
In my opinion it was this document that lead to so much confusion among Catholics, giving the Catholic left, the "out" to vote for the Most Merciful, Lord High Barack Obama. It also allowed them to sow seeds of confusion and dissent among the faithful.
No, she should not be honored for this.
She SHOULD BE FIRED and ANYONE WHO VOTED FOR HER SHOULD BE FIRED.
The USCCB has once again shown that they cannot be trusted. The USCCB should be shut down and completely reformed.
The USCCB gets the "Slap off the Back of the Head Award" for another bonehead move.
Friday, February 13, 2009
A Twelve Year Old Speaks Out on Abortion
I don't remember where I saw this first, maybe Deacon's Bench, Fr. Z's Blog or another. So, I apologize for not giving credit where credit is due.
Fight Maryland Senate Bill 238!
Fight Maryland Senate Bill 238!
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Abortion Study by Catholics in Alliance for the Common Good found to be Faulty
Here are excepts from the news article posted by CNS
Until recently, a Catholics in Alliance for the Common Good study of abortion data claimed that increased spending on welfare programs results in substantial reductions in state abortion rates but many pro-life laws do not. However, the study’s results have been revised following the discovery that incorrect abortion data was used and after criticism from a professor that the group’s conclusions did not follow from the data.
+++
The old version of the report was removed from the site in November 2008 after critics pointed out problems with the study.
+++
The feedback of Michael J. New, an assistant professor of political science at the University of Alabama, was acknowledged in the new version of the report. Writing at the web site MoralAccountability.com, New said that the authors of the study discovered that they had used incorrect abortion data for the years following 1997.
+++
“The new version provides evidence that welfare policy has no more than a marginal effect on the incidence of abortion,” he argued. “In fact, the new regression results indicate that none of the three welfare policies which the authors previously argued were effective tools for reducing the incidence of abortion have a substantial abortion reducing effect.”
In an essay at MoralAccountability.com, New accused Catholics in Alliance for the Common Good of misleading the public and referred to “plenty of peer reviewed studies” which find that public funding restrictions and parental involvement laws reduce the incident of abortion.
He claimed the study had a “substantial impact” on the pro-life debate in the 2008 Presidential election and gave “intellectual legitimacy” to those such as Doug Kmiec and Nicholas Cafardi who argued that pro-life voters should vote for Democrats to advance the pro-life cause.
So, now we have it. I wonder if any will admit that they were wrong. Probably not.
Until recently, a Catholics in Alliance for the Common Good study of abortion data claimed that increased spending on welfare programs results in substantial reductions in state abortion rates but many pro-life laws do not. However, the study’s results have been revised following the discovery that incorrect abortion data was used and after criticism from a professor that the group’s conclusions did not follow from the data.
+++
The old version of the report was removed from the site in November 2008 after critics pointed out problems with the study.
+++
The feedback of Michael J. New, an assistant professor of political science at the University of Alabama, was acknowledged in the new version of the report. Writing at the web site MoralAccountability.com, New said that the authors of the study discovered that they had used incorrect abortion data for the years following 1997.
+++
“The new version provides evidence that welfare policy has no more than a marginal effect on the incidence of abortion,” he argued. “In fact, the new regression results indicate that none of the three welfare policies which the authors previously argued were effective tools for reducing the incidence of abortion have a substantial abortion reducing effect.”
In an essay at MoralAccountability.com, New accused Catholics in Alliance for the Common Good of misleading the public and referred to “plenty of peer reviewed studies” which find that public funding restrictions and parental involvement laws reduce the incident of abortion.
He claimed the study had a “substantial impact” on the pro-life debate in the 2008 Presidential election and gave “intellectual legitimacy” to those such as Doug Kmiec and Nicholas Cafardi who argued that pro-life voters should vote for Democrats to advance the pro-life cause.
So, now we have it. I wonder if any will admit that they were wrong. Probably not.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Legalized Religous Bigotry?
According to WorldNet Daily we may be facing legalized religious bigotry and it is all due to the Stimulus Bill (which of course will only stimulate the government):
The problem in the proposed stimulus bill comes from a provision that states: "PROHIBITED USES OF FUNDS. - No funds awarded under this section may be used for - (C) modernization, renovation, or repair of facilities - (i) used for sectarian instruction, religious worship, or a school or department of divinity; or (ii) in which a substantial portion of the functions of the facilities are subsumed in a religious mission."
Hat tip to our friends over at Les Femmes - The Truth.
The problem in the proposed stimulus bill comes from a provision that states: "PROHIBITED USES OF FUNDS. - No funds awarded under this section may be used for - (C) modernization, renovation, or repair of facilities - (i) used for sectarian instruction, religious worship, or a school or department of divinity; or (ii) in which a substantial portion of the functions of the facilities are subsumed in a religious mission."
Hat tip to our friends over at Les Femmes - The Truth.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Helping Parents Who Lose a Child
Cubby LaHood will never forget the news her doctor told her 20 years ago.
LaHood, then 13-weeks pregnant with her second child, was told her unborn baby had several fatal abnormalities and would likely die within one week after birth. She was advised -- in the best interest of the baby, herself and her family -- to terminate the pregnancy.
LaHood and her husband, Dan, devastated by the news, sought more advice.
A priest simply told Dan LaHood "You know what to do," while handing him an image of St. Joseph. That small picture is now on the LaHoods' mantle along with dozens of family pictures in the couple's Silver Spring home. He said the priest's words "set us on the path we've been on ever since."
"Once you've made a pivotal choice, God sends his minions to help you. It's scary, but someone else helps you keep going," he said Jan. 30 during an interview with Catholic News Service at their home.
Francis was alive for just a few minutes before he died of kidney complications. He died in his parents' arms as they held him, sang to him, spoke to him and cried. His 3-year-old brother, Joe, was also in the room.
As hard as that experience was, Dan LaHood said without hesitation that it "changed our lives completely."
This is from a man who had already been no stranger to living out his faith. Since 1983, he and his wife opened their home to care for disabled children on weekends, before and after school and during school vacations through a nonprofit program called St. Joseph's House.
I have written about the LaHood's before but not on this aspect of their lives.
Since that time, I have had the opportunity to meet and talk to Cubby and Dan LaHood on a couple of occasions.
They are wonderful people.
They are on my annual giving list. You might think about adding them to your list.
To read the entire story, click here.
LaHood, then 13-weeks pregnant with her second child, was told her unborn baby had several fatal abnormalities and would likely die within one week after birth. She was advised -- in the best interest of the baby, herself and her family -- to terminate the pregnancy.
LaHood and her husband, Dan, devastated by the news, sought more advice.
A priest simply told Dan LaHood "You know what to do," while handing him an image of St. Joseph. That small picture is now on the LaHoods' mantle along with dozens of family pictures in the couple's Silver Spring home. He said the priest's words "set us on the path we've been on ever since."
"Once you've made a pivotal choice, God sends his minions to help you. It's scary, but someone else helps you keep going," he said Jan. 30 during an interview with Catholic News Service at their home.
Francis was alive for just a few minutes before he died of kidney complications. He died in his parents' arms as they held him, sang to him, spoke to him and cried. His 3-year-old brother, Joe, was also in the room.
As hard as that experience was, Dan LaHood said without hesitation that it "changed our lives completely."
This is from a man who had already been no stranger to living out his faith. Since 1983, he and his wife opened their home to care for disabled children on weekends, before and after school and during school vacations through a nonprofit program called St. Joseph's House.
I have written about the LaHood's before but not on this aspect of their lives.
Since that time, I have had the opportunity to meet and talk to Cubby and Dan LaHood on a couple of occasions.
They are wonderful people.
They are on my annual giving list. You might think about adding them to your list.
To read the entire story, click here.
Monday, February 9, 2009
Schools Closing in Southern Maryland
In April of last year, I reported that the schools in southern Maryland were targeted for closing.
In October, I stated that the Archbishop must be preping us for some serious closings.
In December, I once again spoke about the southern Maryland schools.
Well, the Catholic Standard has reported that two schools may close:
The schools that may close are Holy Angels-Sacred Heart School in Avenue, and St. Mary, Star of the Sea School in Indian Head. The pastors from those schools are seeking permission from the archdiocese to close at the end of this school year, after considering options on remaining open. Archbishop Wuerl will review those proposals and decide what action should be taken.
Now, we have been prepped for this for the last few months, with the pronouncement in on Catholic Education by the Archbishop and the stories in the Catholic Standard.
To be honest, how many pastors really want to see the school associated with their parish to close? They know that a school, even with all of the financial costs, helps to build a sense of community.
The bottom line is that the Archdiocese has decided, for financial reasons, to close these schools.
My source tells me that the some of the Catholic schools in the Silver Spring area of Montgomery County are next.
In October, I stated that the Archbishop must be preping us for some serious closings.
In December, I once again spoke about the southern Maryland schools.
Well, the Catholic Standard has reported that two schools may close:
The schools that may close are Holy Angels-Sacred Heart School in Avenue, and St. Mary, Star of the Sea School in Indian Head. The pastors from those schools are seeking permission from the archdiocese to close at the end of this school year, after considering options on remaining open. Archbishop Wuerl will review those proposals and decide what action should be taken.
Now, we have been prepped for this for the last few months, with the pronouncement in on Catholic Education by the Archbishop and the stories in the Catholic Standard.
To be honest, how many pastors really want to see the school associated with their parish to close? They know that a school, even with all of the financial costs, helps to build a sense of community.
The bottom line is that the Archdiocese has decided, for financial reasons, to close these schools.
My source tells me that the some of the Catholic schools in the Silver Spring area of Montgomery County are next.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Wagyu Steak, Taxes, Lobbyists, etc. & the Catholic Social Justice Crowd
So, here we are apx. three weeks after the inauguration of the Most Merciful, Lord High Barack Obama. And, the Catholic left has been oddly silent about the goings-on of this administration.
First, we have the Most Merciful inviting a couple of Senators and Representatives for a little Wagyu steak and cocktails. Now, I don't hold anything against some beef and booze but did you know that this beef costs over $100 per pound. You mean you can't find a really good cut of beef for around $10 per pound? So, if three or four pounds of the stuff is purchased, with our economic crisis, is that a wise way to spend money? Do you know how much beef or chicken you can buy with that money and how many people you can feed with it?
The Obama nominees seem to have a problem with tax payments. For a man who says that everyone should pay their fair share, there seem to be an awful lot who don't. We got Tom Daschle, Tim Geithner and Nancy Killifer. There are a lot of social services you can buy with that money.
Since this is the most ethical administration ever, and the Most Merciful has declared that no lobbyists will be hired, but William Lynn his choice to become the No. 2 official at the Defense Department recently lobbied for military contractor Raytheon and Bill Corr, his choice as deputy secretary at Health and Human Services, lobbied through most of last year as an anti-tobacco advocate. But that is okay because it is him.
For the last week, over 1 million (now down to 500,000) people have been without power in the mid-west due to winter storms, and yet, where is the USCCB and the Catholic left calling upon the Obama administration to do something about this? Isn't this racism because many of those w/o power are white?
Finally, the Most Merciful (and his Mrs.) visited a DC Public School earlier this week to read to the children. Yet no one asked him the question: "If this is such a great school, why don't you send your daughter's here?"
Where is the Catholic social justice crowd these days? I guess they have not removed the rose colored glasses yet.
First, we have the Most Merciful inviting a couple of Senators and Representatives for a little Wagyu steak and cocktails. Now, I don't hold anything against some beef and booze but did you know that this beef costs over $100 per pound. You mean you can't find a really good cut of beef for around $10 per pound? So, if three or four pounds of the stuff is purchased, with our economic crisis, is that a wise way to spend money? Do you know how much beef or chicken you can buy with that money and how many people you can feed with it?
The Obama nominees seem to have a problem with tax payments. For a man who says that everyone should pay their fair share, there seem to be an awful lot who don't. We got Tom Daschle, Tim Geithner and Nancy Killifer. There are a lot of social services you can buy with that money.
Since this is the most ethical administration ever, and the Most Merciful has declared that no lobbyists will be hired, but William Lynn his choice to become the No. 2 official at the Defense Department recently lobbied for military contractor Raytheon and Bill Corr, his choice as deputy secretary at Health and Human Services, lobbied through most of last year as an anti-tobacco advocate. But that is okay because it is him.
For the last week, over 1 million (now down to 500,000) people have been without power in the mid-west due to winter storms, and yet, where is the USCCB and the Catholic left calling upon the Obama administration to do something about this? Isn't this racism because many of those w/o power are white?
Finally, the Most Merciful (and his Mrs.) visited a DC Public School earlier this week to read to the children. Yet no one asked him the question: "If this is such a great school, why don't you send your daughter's here?"
Where is the Catholic social justice crowd these days? I guess they have not removed the rose colored glasses yet.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Vandalism at Pro-Life Demonstration at Geo. Washington University
From the Washington Post (2/3/09):
Crosses used in an antiabortion demonstration at George Washington University were defaced last week, and the school's College Democrats organization has apologized for the vandalism.
The crosses had been stored in a locked office shared by College Republicans and College Democrats. The Democrats issued a statement saying one of their members had admitted responsibility and had been expelled from the group but did not name the alleged offender.
GWU's chapter of the Young America's Foundation, a conservative group, had planted 1,100 small white crosses on university grounds on the anniversary of the Supreme Court's 1973 Roe v. Wade decision.
Student Republicans later found drawings and writing in black ink on some of the crosses. One depicted a stick figure of a crucified Jesus. Another, hung upside down, had a condom stretched over it. One had the name of a College Democrats leader.
This story was first seen on Newsbusters.org, which also has a link to Pat Dollard's site showing photos of what was done.
I guess the Most Merciful, Lord High Barack Obama's call for respect did not get very far down Pennsylvania Avenue. But, what else is new with the radical left.
But more important, notice how little play this has gotten. If it was the reverse, there would be calls for sensitivity training, expulsion, restitution.
Crosses used in an antiabortion demonstration at George Washington University were defaced last week, and the school's College Democrats organization has apologized for the vandalism.
The crosses had been stored in a locked office shared by College Republicans and College Democrats. The Democrats issued a statement saying one of their members had admitted responsibility and had been expelled from the group but did not name the alleged offender.
GWU's chapter of the Young America's Foundation, a conservative group, had planted 1,100 small white crosses on university grounds on the anniversary of the Supreme Court's 1973 Roe v. Wade decision.
Student Republicans later found drawings and writing in black ink on some of the crosses. One depicted a stick figure of a crucified Jesus. Another, hung upside down, had a condom stretched over it. One had the name of a College Democrats leader.
This story was first seen on Newsbusters.org, which also has a link to Pat Dollard's site showing photos of what was done.
I guess the Most Merciful, Lord High Barack Obama's call for respect did not get very far down Pennsylvania Avenue. But, what else is new with the radical left.
But more important, notice how little play this has gotten. If it was the reverse, there would be calls for sensitivity training, expulsion, restitution.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Maryland Senate Bill 238
The Maryland Catholic Conference (MCC) has asked Catholics to fight MD Senate Bill 238, which would lift the statute of limitations on lawsuits against child abusers to 32 years after the alleged act.
According to the statement they have put out, it will not apply to government agencies and public schools. And from what I have read, there has been a great deal of abuse going on in public schools around the country but little is done about it.
Either everyone should be able to be sued equally or drop it. If this is the case, then FIGHT it.
Write to your legislator.
Fight it.
Go to their website to find out how.
According to the statement they have put out, it will not apply to government agencies and public schools. And from what I have read, there has been a great deal of abuse going on in public schools around the country but little is done about it.
Either everyone should be able to be sued equally or drop it. If this is the case, then FIGHT it.
Write to your legislator.
Fight it.
Go to their website to find out how.
Monday, February 2, 2009
The Archbishop's Appeal has begun in earnest...
Well, with the 2008 Archbishop's Appeal over (more was raised than expected, so I have to congratulates those who ran the campaign), the 2009 Appeal has gotten underway.
We have heard for the last two to three weeks, intentions made during the Prayers of the Faithful that each of us think carefully about the Appeal. I have received my letter from the Archbishop Wuerl. And, I have heard it in the pulpit during announcements.
This year's theme is For the Glory of God but when you open up the brochure (in English and Spanish, of course), the headline reads: BRINGING HOPE. CHANGING LIVES. How Obamamania is that?
The brochure goes on to show the different ways the donations are spent: Spanish Center, Anchor Mental Health, Kennedy Institute, and Catholic education. It even highlights a Mr. & Mrs. Jim Quinn, who have been givers to the Appeal since 1970.
However, I will not give.
There are a number of reasons why but the most fundamental to me is the fact that we continue to let pro-abortion, anti-true marriage politicians continue to receive Holy Communion on our parishes, but say/do nothing. To me, that is the our current scandal.
Our clergy and religious celebrate the election of a pro-abortion politicians, or praise them when they have died.
We have anti-Church groups meeting on a regular basis in our parishes.
When pro-gay legislation is passed, our Archbishop remains silent.
Therefore, I will not give.
I urge you not to give.
I do urge you to take that money and give it to a good Catholic charity, maybe directly to your local Catholic school or a religious order that follows the teaching of the Magesterium.
That is what I intend to do.
If you feel the same, let me know. And, if you wish, you can even name the group that will get your funds.
If you don't agree with me, you can let me know too. You are always welcome to post here.
We have heard for the last two to three weeks, intentions made during the Prayers of the Faithful that each of us think carefully about the Appeal. I have received my letter from the Archbishop Wuerl. And, I have heard it in the pulpit during announcements.
This year's theme is For the Glory of God but when you open up the brochure (in English and Spanish, of course), the headline reads: BRINGING HOPE. CHANGING LIVES. How Obamamania is that?
The brochure goes on to show the different ways the donations are spent: Spanish Center, Anchor Mental Health, Kennedy Institute, and Catholic education. It even highlights a Mr. & Mrs. Jim Quinn, who have been givers to the Appeal since 1970.
However, I will not give.
There are a number of reasons why but the most fundamental to me is the fact that we continue to let pro-abortion, anti-true marriage politicians continue to receive Holy Communion on our parishes, but say/do nothing. To me, that is the our current scandal.
Our clergy and religious celebrate the election of a pro-abortion politicians, or praise them when they have died.
We have anti-Church groups meeting on a regular basis in our parishes.
When pro-gay legislation is passed, our Archbishop remains silent.
Therefore, I will not give.
I urge you not to give.
I do urge you to take that money and give it to a good Catholic charity, maybe directly to your local Catholic school or a religious order that follows the teaching of the Magesterium.
That is what I intend to do.
If you feel the same, let me know. And, if you wish, you can even name the group that will get your funds.
If you don't agree with me, you can let me know too. You are always welcome to post here.
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