The thoughts and musings of a Roman Catholic in the Archdiocese of Washington.
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Any update on St. Michael's in Silver Spring?
I have not had a chance to see my "contact" over there for a while, but if anyone has any info, please feel free to share: awashingtondccatholic@gmail.com.
The Washington comPost: Wrong and Stupid
First, we have the resident radical liberal Mr. Stevens-Arroyo with his: "May Your Christmas be Catholic and Gay." Although there is much wrong with this article, like many of his postings but he cannot even get the percentages of gays correct. He says that apx. 10% of Americans are gay. WRONG. It is actually more like 1% or 2%. The 10% number was debunked a number of years ago when people started asking the gay community for the research on it. The number was just made up. More sloppy journalism from the Washington comPost.
This past Sunday, the Washington comPost ran a story by Michelle Boorstein entitled: Part Prayer, part pep rally with Wuerl at basilica on Christmas.
So, I read the story and my observation is: What was the point? There is no point. It is a story about nothing. Various people go to the National Shrine for Mass. They pray. Some love the Cardinal. He talked about Jesus on Christmas. Wow! This story almost reminds me of a Sienfeld episode.
Maybe this was the Post's way of saying: Gee, we slammed you a couple of weeks ago on the "missing" priests, so let us make it up to you with this story.
Finally, we have today a story about how the "conservatives" are trying to bring back the bad old days of Latin and ceremony, from the "enlightened progressives." First, do not refer to Holy Communion as a "wafer." Second, the snide comments, such about American political fashion and what not to wear, really shows what this article is also about -- making a mountain out of a mole hill. Finally, it seems to be another way to help the anti-Catholic bigots get things off their chest.
Monday, December 27, 2010
Need a Job? The Archdiocese has one for you...
One of my issues I have had is that the marketing of Catholic education is really non-existant. For years, I have complained that our Catholic cemeteries had more marketing than our Catholic schools. You can hear regular ads on WMAL (630AM) usually with Msgr. Enzler or someone who has loved one's buried at a Catholic cemetery.
Now, there is nothing wrong with this type of advertisement but there was nothing for Catholic schools except the feeble attempt to pay for a couple of ads on Metro buses earlier this year.
Although they will not admit it, marketing has been left up the to local schools. Local schools do the best they can, relying on parents who may have some marketing experience to assist.
Why?
As I see it, it is because these are parish schools and therefore, the responsibility rests with them, even though the Archdiocese tells them what to teach, how much to pay teachers, etc.
Well, after years of being left on their own, a large number of Catholic schools closing and enrollment dropping like Obama's approval ratings, combined with the new education policies, the Archdiocese has finally announced a new position:
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Scandal: Wuerl helps to honor pro-gay marriage Mayor
Mayor Vincent Gray who is Catholic and says he attends Mass regularly (although we have not been able to determine the parish - although I know some of you out there know), supported same-sex marriages, as well as, other things which go against Church teaching.
For the Cardinal to attend and participate in this, brings scandal by helping to honor a pro-abortion/pro-gay marriage mayor.
However, you should not be shocked at this, as this is pretty typical for the Cardinal. You should recall his attendance at the SOAR Dinner honoring Cokie and Steve Roberts and his attendance at the John Sweeney farewell. Who knows what other events he has attended, since the Catholic Standard does not report on these sorts of events, nor does his PR person issue statements.
BTW, a request for a comment by Ms. Susan Gibbs, the spokesperson for the Archdiocese, was not returned.
You can read it here at the Washington comPost.
Thanks to our colleagues over at Restore DC Catholicism.
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Monday, December 20, 2010
The Washington Post - Wrong Again
The writer stated:
Total BS.
Look, the Democratic congress, on the issues of vouchers, had sold themselves like common prostitutes, to the National Education Assn. They did not want any taxpayer funding to go to private schools, but more importantly, there is an anti-Catholic bias in the Democratic Party.
The vouchers program was ended, so to speak, because of the NEA and anti-Catholic bigotry.
Although the Archdiocese of Washington fought hard, and got this Administration to at least keep its commitment to those who had started the program, everyone now has to suffer -- students, parents and taxpayers.
Hopefully, things will change.
Friday, December 17, 2010
Can this be the "New" Christmas Greeting?
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For Liberal Catholycs...
Please accept with no obligation, implied or explicit, my best wishes for an environmentally conscious, socially responsible, low-stress, non-addictive, gender-neutral celebration of the winter solstice holiday, practiced within the most enjoyable traditions of the religious persuasion of your choice, or secular practices of your choice, with respect for the religious/secular persuasion and/or traditions of others, or their choice not to practice religious or secular traditions at all. I also wish you a fiscally successful, personally fulfilling and medically uncomplicated recognition of the onset of the generally accepted calendar year 2011 but not without due respect for the calendars of choice of other cultures whose contributions to society have helped make America great. Not to imply that America is necessarily greater than any other country nor the only America in the Western Hemisphere . Also, this wish is made without regard to the race, creed, color, age, physical ability, religious faith or sexual preference of the wishee.
For Conservative Catholics...
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Stupid Biden Quote
Once again, we bring you another stupid quote from the highest elected "Catholyc" in the United States: Vice President Joe Biden. I tell you, he is the gift that keeps on giving.
Joe Biden, the gaffe-prone vice president, strayed from tradition Monday at the swearing-in of Republican Mark Kirk, the new senator from Illinois.
Biden, who is president of the Senate, began by instructing Kirk: "Please place your right hand on the Bible. "Kirk, a Republican, did as instructed, putting his right hand on the Good Book and raising his left.
Oops. Here's guidance from "Traditions of the United States Senate," by Richard Baker, the Senate historian from 1975 to 2009: "Senators-elect affirm their oath to defend the U.S. Constitution by stepping forward, raising their right hand, and repeating the words spoken by the presiding officer. Some carry in their left hand a personal Bible or other sacred text."
For the complete story, go here.
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
What time is Midnight Mass?
Well, if you are in the Archdiocese of Washington, and you ask this question, the answer may be more like 10pm Christmas Eve.
A reader alerted me to a growing trend that seems to be spreading across the Archdiocese -- fewer and fewer Christmas Midnight Masses.
The Shrine will not have one, nor is St. Matthew's, as well as a number of parishes.
I am not certain if there is a reason behind it -- a drop over the last few years, people scared to go out, etc. -- but it seems odd that the tradition of Christmas Midnight Mass is slowly disappearing.
Do you have any thoughts as to why?
Monday, December 13, 2010
Stupid Biden Quotes
“Daddy is going to start to take the training wheels off in October -- I mean in next July, so you'd better practice riding,” he said.
I am suprised they keep letting him out of his playpen.
For more, go here.
Friday, December 10, 2010
Awaiting the Messiah: The Dead Sea Scrolls and the Community of the Essenes
Join Sebastian Carnazzo, Ph.D. candidate, and the Institute of Catholic Culture for this in-depth study of the Jewish community of the Essenes and how they prepared for the coming of the Christ.
Sebastian Carnazzo received his masters in Theology with a concentration in Sacred Scripture from the Notre Dame Graduate School of Christendom College, and is presently completing a doctorate in Biblical Studies at Catholic University of America in Washington, DC. He teaches full-time at Our Lady of Guadalupe Seminary of the Fraternity of St. Peter as Lecturer in Sacred Scripture and Biblical Languages.
This event takes place at 7:30 p.m. at Holy Transfiguration Catholic Church, 8501 Lewinsville Rd., McLean, Va. Admission is free and no reservations are required.
For more information, please visit www.InstituteofCatholicCulture.org or call 703-504-8733.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Did you take the Survey?
Did you take the survey on the FINDTHEPERFECTGIFT over on the right?
If not, take a moment to complete it. It costs nothing and will let the powers that be, know what you think. Conversely, getting very few answers may also signal a message.
On a separate note, have you seen any signs? I have seen about 10 of them...apx. eight in front of Catholic Churches (near Georgetown Prep and Holy Cross Hospital) and two in front of a private residence in the area of Kensington.
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Just a reminder, this weekend is the collection for the Retirement Fund for Religous. If you don't want to give to this collection, then please make a donation to a specific Order. Thanks!!!
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
CINO Awards are Underway
So, go over and vote here.
Thanks to Fr. Z for this.
I am so jealous...I wish I had thought of it.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Protesting Late Term Abortions in MoCO
Thanks to our colleague at Restore DC Catholicism.
Sunday, December 5, 2010
FINDTHEPERFECTGIFT.ORG
This effort, by the Archdiocese of Washington, seems to take the Come Back for Christmas campaign to the next level.
At Mass we were all encouraged to get a sign, typical of the ones we see advertising real estate and political candidates and take one home to post in your yard.
The http://FINDTHEPERFECTGIFT.ORG is an attempt to reach Catholics, Catholycs and non-Catholics with the message of Christ.
It is done differently than other attempts by having a video of Donald Cardinal Wuerl stand up and talk about the meaning of Christmas. There are a number of topics related to faith and Christmas. There are also links to the USCCB for Sacred Scripture, and find a Church.
Although I think the video message from the Cardinal is a bit long, it is differnet than previous efforts. A soft evangelization, sort of like the Jehovah Witnesses. They are there but they don't yell and scream at you.
So, did you take a sign? Did you put it in your yard? What do you think about this effort?
Let me know what you think and you will be letting the Archdiocese know, since they come here too.
Friday, December 3, 2010
Institute of Catholic Culture Program (Free)
On December 5th and 12th , the Institute of Catholic Culture, headquartered in Arlington, Virginia is proud to present a two-part program examining the foreshadowing of the Virgin Mary and how God prepared the world for the birth of the Messiah. Throughout the Jewish Scriptures we learn of many holy women through whom God chose to reveal His will for His people. The speaker is Fr. Paul Scalia who leads this Advent Bible Study on the Holy Women of the Old Testament.
Fr. Paul Scalia is Pastor at Saint John the Beloved Catholic Church in McLean, Virginia. He received a Master of Arts from the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas, the Angelicum, in Rome in 1996 and was ordained a Priest for the Diocese of Arlington the same year. Fr. Scalia has published articles in various periodicals, including This Rock, First Things, and Human Life Review. He is currently serving as Chaplain for the Arlington Diocese Courage Chapter.
Please join Fr. Scalia and the Institute of Catholic Culture for this presentation as we enter the Advent season.
The program takes place at 7:30 p.m. at Our Lady of Hope, 46639 Algonkian Parkway, Potomac Falls, Virginia. Admission is free no reservation is required.
For more information, please visit www.InstituteofCatholicCulture.org or call 703-504-8733.
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Late Term Abortions to take place in this Archdiocese
For more information...go to LifeSitenews.Com
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Will you be the first Cardinal, Cardinal Wuerl?
1. Bishop Joseph Adamec (Altoona-Johnstown, PA)
2. Bishop John Barres (Allentown, PA)
3. Bishop Lawrence Brandt (Greensburg, PA)
4. Bishop Fabian Bruskewitz (Lincoln, NE)
5. Bishop Victor Galeone (St. Augustine, FL)
6. Bishop James Johnston (Springfield, MO)
7. Bishop Salvatore R. Matano (Burlington, VT)
8. Bishop Joseph McFadden (Harrisburg, PA)
9. Bishop Robert Morlino (Madison, WI)
10. Bishop Robert Vasa (Baker, OR)
11. Will you add your name here Cardinal Wuerl?
For the complete story, go to LifeSiteNews.Com
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
The PR Campaign for Catholic Education
I really hate to say this, but it was a colossal waste of time and money.
I am not certain if they are attempting to mitigate the bad news about Catholic education over the last few years, attempt to get us ready for more bad news, or if there is something else. I am not quite certain but only time will tell.
Monday, November 29, 2010
Cardinal Wuerl...Some thoughts...
Over the last few days, I have been thinking about the elevation of Cardinal Wuerl. I did not go to the Mass of Thanksgiving yesterday.
Nevertheless, I have been asking myself why the Holy Father would do this. Is it simply because Cardinal McCarrick is no longer eligible to vote. Is is simply because the Holy Father believes that he is the best person for the job? Is it that the Holy Father, guided by the Holy Spirit, believes that there is something else in store for him down the road?
As much as I believe that Cardinal Wuerl is not the best choice for this Archdiocese, I have to believe that the Holy Father, guided by the Holy Spirit, knows what is best.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Educational Promotion?
In it it contained a letter from the Cardinal Wuerl reminding us to be thankful (Thanksgiving) for all God has given to us and to remind us of the blessing of a Catholic education. In addition, there was a full color booket containing reprints from the Catholic Standard on education.
- Did you get his packet?
- What did you think about it?
- Did you understand the purpose of why it was sent to you?
- Do you believe it was worth the cost?
I would love to know what you think and will share with you my thoughts later on it.
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Have a wonderful and blessed Thanksgiving. As we move into the Christmas season, please remember to find a good Catholic charity (and there are a number) and make a small donation, esp. those which help those who are less fortunate.
Monday, November 22, 2010
Catholic Standard Weekly Update
We have an two articles focusing on Cardinal George of Chicago: Protection of Iraqi Catholics and the Health Care debate.
You know, I was thinking, how many people and groups stood up against the burning of the Koran, but when terrorists (Muslim terrorists to be exact) enter a Catholic Church and murder people in prayer, not a sound is uttered by the President et al.
There is a story on the National Council of Catholic Women and one of their speakers -- Sr. Carol Keehan. Yes, the same Sr. Carol Keehan who fully supported the Most Merciful's Health Care program. She says: "We need to be utterly intolerant of trashing other people in the Church." Well then Sr. K, then support life and not a pro-abortion president. Sorry, you reap what you sow.
Again, we hear about supporting CCHD as a way of "giving Thanks to the Lord." Tell me, is the way of giving thanks to support those groups that oppose us? I don't think so.
According to the article, it seems that our Catholic funds went to pay for two libraries and youth recreation centers in Ward 8? Personally, I would have thought that it is something that taxpayer dollars were to be used for. I mean the Archdiocese is having difficulty building a recreation center at the corner of Randolf and Georgia Ave., for the CYO program and yet, we are more than willing to spend $$ on things that we pay taxes for.
We have a full page on the different things you can do in regards to the Consistory. You can wear red (lame), you can send a spiritual bouquet (good), you can watch it live (good) or participate in a Holy Hour (good).
Congratulation to Sr. Rynn, the Principal of Little Flower School. She received the 2010 National Distinguished Principal Award by the NAESP. Congrats.
Congrats also Archbishop Carroll for honoring Fr. Leslie Branch.
And, let us thank/congratulate the following schools:
- St. Mary in Bryantown for their charitable work for the Foundation of Children w/ Cancer.
- Annunciation in DC for their support of "Treas 4 Our Troops"
- St. Peter's for honoring their Principal on Veterans Day.
- Archbishop Neale School (La Plata) for winning first place in the Careers Category of the Charles Co. Chamber of Commerce Scarecrow Festival.
Great story on the Run for Vocations during the Marine Corp Marathon.
Well folks, that's it for this week. Tune in next week when we will review the "Collectors Edition of the Catholic Standard" on the Consistory.
Friday, November 19, 2010
Can Someone Help This Reader....
This person is a parishioner at St. Rose of Lima. It seems that things are getting quite out of control at St. Rose of Lima -- between VOTF, the Spirituality Lectures, etc.
The reader is asking: Are there any good parishes in the Archdiocese in which the pastor and priests are faithful to the Magesterium?
Any recommendations?
Thursday, November 18, 2010
A Correction...on the St. Joseph Elementary School Story
I have correct the numbers in the article. The loss of students was actually worse than I originally understood.
This is really turning into a slow moving disaster for Catholic education in this Archdiocese.
BOYCOTT THE CCHD COLLECTION THIS SUNDAY!!!
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
A Comment from a Reader...
Thank you.
AWDCCatholic
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I have a copy of a letter Bishop Knestout sent to all parishes Sept 24 asking them to participate in a solemn vigil for all nascent human life with the Pope on November 27th. This was never announced in our parish or in the Catholic Standard, but a parishioner of another D.C. parish obtained it from his parish after asking about such a vigil after Pope Benedict's request was publicized on the web.
This person also emailed the Archdiocesan office of life issues concerning this vigil and was told that they didn't have time to create a flyer concerning this vigil (a flyer for what--does anyone know where one such vigil is occuring in the entire Archdiocese of Washington?)
"The Archdiocese made known to pastors to do what makes sense with regard to timing and expression of this vigil. We understand that this is a busy weekend for parishes here in the US … not only is it the first Sunday of Advent, but it is also Thanksgiving weekend.
The Department of Life Issues is not putting together a flyer for this … unfortunately, this also hits us at an extremely busy time as we prepare for two Youth Rallies and an Adult/Family Rally all taking place on January 24th the morning of the March for Life. We simply do not have the “manpower” to work on a flyer for the vigil."
18-20 babies were murdered in my parish this past Saturday at the local abortion clinic. My parish has much time to organize a bazaar, the pastor says a Mass for peace in Iraq/Afghanistan the first Friday of every month, and we pray every week for those who have been killed by accidents and acts of terror around the world, whereupon said pastor adds a special prayer for those who are unemployed but never, EVER do we pray for those who have been killed at our own parish abortion clinic this past week.
There is no time to organize any prayer for the 50 million children aborted in the U.S. on November 27, but there have been two full page ads for the Mass for Thanksgiving for Archbishop Wuerl on November 28 in the Catholic Standard.
There is an article on the site now:http://www.cathstan.org/main.asp?SectionID=2&SubSectionID=27&ArticleID=4232
And of course there was more than enough time to make the announcement in all the parishes yesterday inviting us all to wear red to celebrate Archbishop's Wuerl becoming cardinal.
When I heard it the same thought occurred to me that if I wore anything it would be black in expression of deepest mourning...
And yet, do you get this, the same pope appointed him...
P.S. Everyone keeps saying how the priesthood has fallen 100,000 etc. Does anyone know how much the money has fallen or have government funds made it all up?
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
St. Joseph Regional School in Beltsville
If you look at this week's Catholic Standard (Nov. 11, 2010 Page 7), the article touts the new St. Joseph Regional School in Beltsville, as a reflection of faith and the shared effort of three parishes.
How wonderful and exciting it is that this school, now has an enrollment of 210, has seen an increase of 40 students compared with the year before. How beautiful it is that there are three parishes sharing the burden - St. Joseph, St. Hugh and St. Nicholas.
But things are not as they seem to be.
You see, what the Catholic Standard did not tell you was
- St. Joseph originally had an enrollment of 170.
- St. Hugh originally had an enrollment of 125.
- Combined, they should have an enrollment of almost 300.
- Now, they only have 210 -- a loss of 90 students.
I guess that is what they mean by new math. A 90 student loss is actually a gain.
I wonder if they contacted the parents of the 90 to determine why they did not come back. Could it be the distance? Could it be that people want local Catholic parish schools?
BTW, this article was "Special to the Standard." In other words, it was created by the Communications Office of the Archdiocese of Washington.
PS: Thank you to one of my readers' for your email on this matter.
Monday, November 15, 2010
Tuition Assistance Program (TAP)
Now, one of the most interesting things is that there are no guidelines as to who is or is not eligible, so you cannot determine if you should or should not apply. So, in addition to being totally subjective, as far as I can tell, you have to pay a fee to give up a great deal of personal information.
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On a separate note, one of my reader's informed me that there is an effort underway to get all Catholics to wear red on Nov. 19th in honor of the elevation of Cardinal-elect Wuerl.
Who's STUPID idea was that over in Hyattsville? I will wear black.
What color do you think we should wear on Friday?
Friday, November 12, 2010
Not One Thin Dime to CCHD
You can read about it here first
And more here.
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Thursday, November 11, 2010
The Latin Mass
This was my second time, so I still cannot make a judgement on whether this is for me or not, but I do intend to attend a couple more times.
The small church was fairly crowded. I would estimate about 150 to 175 people. A number of families were in attendance and everyone was well dressed. Many of the women wore mantillas (in fact, they seem to have some you can borrow at the entrance of the Church).
A couple of observations. If you are a regular attendee of this Mass, please do not take any as criticisms but as a way of helping people like myself better understand and learn.
- I could not hear the priest at all (I probably should sit in the front). As someone who is not familiar w/ The Latin Mass, I had a hard time following where the priest was. I really wanted to follow along and read the prayers as they were being said. So, suggestion...a little louder please...if possible.
- The prayers are beautiful. My Latin is very poor (okay, almost non-existent) but the translations show the beauty of the prayers. Wow. They really put most of the stuff we hear today to shame.
- There was no chatting among the congregation. At the Masses I regularly attend, there is always some chatting by someone going on. I was really impressed.
Too bad it it not offered at more than a few places in this Archdiocese.
If you are interested in attending this Sunday (8am), here is the information:
9700 Rosensteel Avenue
Silver Spring, Maryland 20910
Coffee and donuts are served afterwards in the basement of the rectory house next door.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Catholic Schools - What is the Future? Still More Thoughts...
"It's not always easy, but we have to be open and honest when we face difficulties..." "It's great when a comunity comes together to have an open and honest discussion about the future."
Let's face some facts here. The Archdiocese is basically telling the parishes and schools, that the problem is your problem, not our (the Archdiocese) problem. If you want a school next year, you have to raise X amount of dollars.
Now, the one good thing is that they are giving parishes more time to come up with the cash but still, they are putting the full burden on them.
The article discusses the process and the success of the consolidation of St. Mark the Evangelist (Hyattsville) and St. Camillus (Silver Spring). However, they are not telling you the full story.
1. St. Mark's was told that in order to remain open, they had to come up with $90,000. They came up with $86,000. But guess what, they were told that since they did not get the $90K, they were merging. You didn't hear about this in the Standard.
2. The the St. Francis International School was launched with great fanfare. However, enrollment is less than projected. Many of the St. Mark parents have sent their children elsewhere. In addition, there were layoffs at the start of the year due to this low enrollment. Neither of these facts were shared with you.
Look folks, the bottom line is that Cardinal-elect Wuerl is looking to shut down a number of Catholic schools. Remember when I wrote about this during the discussion of the policy and I was told that there were no plans to close any school down. What happened just a few months later? Do you really believe that they did not have a couple of schools in their sights?
Cardinal-elect Wuerl is doing it gradually and not in one fell swoop, like they did a number of years ago in DC. It prevents a public relations disaster and also keeps the awareness down to a bare minimum. If you close one or two schools this year, and one or two next, you really don't notice it (or may not hear about it) like you would 10 or 12 at a time.*
In addition, he and the Archdiocese are not going to take the heat for the closings..they are firmly placing the burden on the parishes. By placing it on you, it absolves the Archdiocese.
What do you think?
UPDATE (7am): Just this morning, a friend of mine informed me that up to 15 Catholic Schools (affecting over 4.000 students) may close in the Archdiocese of NYC. It has made the major newspapers and will be in the media for the next few months.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Catholic Schools - What is the Future? More thoughts
Today, the Archdiocese has forced parishes to abandon this practice, as part of ensuring that the tuition covers actual costs.
However, any Catholic elementary school parent will tell you, that if you want a discount, you must go through their Tuition Assistance Program. They will determine, based on your income, if you should receive one or not. If, they determine, you make too much money, well then, you won't get anything, even if you have four or five children in Catholic schools.
This is really not a pro-family position, in my humble opinion.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Catholic Schools -- What is the Future?
" One year after the Archdiocese of Washington's new Policy for Catholic Schools were adopted, the priority of making Catholic education more affordable has led to the archdiocese awarding more than $5 in tuition assistance...and many parishes have entered into regional partnerships to make Catholic education more accessible to families throughout the area."
This is so FUSTRATING.
1. The policy is that schools must charge the actual cost of education.
2. There are NO discounts to families with more than one child in school. You want a discount, then you apply to their program. Maybe you get something, maybe not. More on this later.
3. These partnerships do NOTHING to make it more accessible. Why? Because it allows parishes who "partner" with others to pay a lower stipend towards education, which goes to the "partner" school but the cost remains the same.
More tomorrow...
Saturday, November 6, 2010
More Possible Catholic School Closings?
This follows the same pattern as last year:
- There are series of articles in the Catholic Standard on how wonderful the new policy on education is working over the course of a few weeks.
- Suddenly, in November, consultations are announced. (This is different that a few years ago, when they told the parishes in Feb/March that the schools might close.)
- Everyone talks about how wonderful everyone is pulling together, esp. the Archdiocese.
Over a year ago, I told you that Southern Maryland was the next target. My source tells me at least one of these schools will close (merge) with a possible second.
Did you notice the other pattern: The Archdiocese places the burden on the parish and pastor to solve the problem. They pretty much wash their hands of the situation.
I keep thinking, if they advertised Catholic education like they did Catholic cemeteries, maybe we would not be in this situation.
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BOYCOTT THE CCHD COLLECTION THIS MONTH!
Friday, November 5, 2010
Cardinal-elect Wuerl and Mayor Gray
Yesterday, I sent the following note to Susan Gibbs, Director of Communications of the Archdiocese of Washington:
Recently, Mr. Vincent Gray was elected the Mayor of Washington DC.
Mayor-elect Gray has identified himself as a Catholic. Since Mr. Gray is a member of the Archdiocese of Washington will the Cardinal-elect be meeting with him to discuss his pro-abortion and pro-gay rights positions in light of Catholic teaching?
In addition, will the Cardinal-elect inform him that he should not receive Holy Communion because of his beliefs are in total opposition to the Church's teaching?
I look forward to hearing from you and will share your response with my readership.
Regards.
AWashingtonDCCatholic
Her response:
I'm sorry, but we are unable to respond to anonymous questions. By the way, you misspelled the new mayor's name.
Thank you.
Susan Gibbs
Archdiocese of Washington
So folks, other than my misspelling of the name of the new mayor, I guess we have our answer. Maybe someone in my reading audience would like to send this note to Ms. Gibbs and see if they will get a different answer? You can write to her at: gibbss@adw.org
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Boycott the CCHD Collection later this month!
Thursday, November 4, 2010
BOYCOTT CCHD
We know the problems, we know that there was a "secret" report that was sent to the Catholic bishops at the end of August (but was not reported in the Catholic Standard) about the problems and the solutions.
Having read the Executive Summary, they are just putting bandages on the problem.
Therefore...I am calling, with many of my other blogging colleagues, for a complete and total BOYCOTT OF CCHD.
That is the only way that Cardinal-elect Wuerl and the other bishops will get the message.
Note: You will see a reminder of this boycott on every posting until Nov. 22nd.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
What a Difference a Year (and You) Make....
In addition, we discovered that Archbishop Wuerl was right there honoring them -- although SOAR, the Catholic Standard and his PR person -- all attempted to hide the fact.
Nevertheless, the truth did come out (and still we have not forgotten this Cardinal-elect Wuerl).
It was not only a wake up call but a real black eye on an organization that can do some good.
Well, look at what a year does for an organization.
First, they have a new president. The past president has stepped down. Second, the people/groups who will receive this year's awards have not (at least as I an tell) publicly criticized The Holy Father and Church teaching. (But I may be wrong on that matter.)
What a difference a year makes.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Today is All Soul's Day
Today is also Election Day.
Vote Republican.
Annoy the mainstream media and put all of the pro-abortion Democrat candidates in the same place that they send innocent human life -- in the trash.
Monday, November 1, 2010
Today is All Saint's Day
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Review and Renewal: CCHD
Let me say up front, that I have not read the report, but from all indications, there seems to have been some "tweeking" but not much substantive change. If I get a chance to read it, I will but I am still calling for a SHUT DOWN OF CCHD.
Why? First, money donated by Catholics should be going to Catholic organizations. Period. Second, considering how they have handled this mess over the last few years, I do not have any trust that they will clean it up. End of story.
SHUT DOWN CCHD!
For more on the CCHD issue, go to Catholic News Agency.
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
SOLD - John Paul II Cultural Center (Update)
For more, read Whispers in the Loggia for the full story.
Update (Nov. 10, 2010): Altough there is an agreement to sell the property to the Dominican Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Eucharist, this sale is pending the outcome of the inspection process. It is my understanding that the process should be completed sometime in December. I hope that this clarifies the current situation and apologize if it has mislead anyone.
PS: I have not forgotten about VOTF at St. Rose of Lima...see the story below.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
VOTF and St. Rose of Lima
In this week's St. Rose of Lima bulletin, Msgr. Paul Dudziak couches the words in describing the VOTF meeting. In the last bulletin, he stated that this meeting would send recommendations up to the American Catholic Council. This week, he just says that it is a group who is meeting to discuss the future of the Church. He also makes certain to put it in his weekly column, right up front. (If this is not an affront to the Archbishop of Detroit and all faithful Catholics, I don't know what is.)
Here are just a couple of quotes from the statement from the Archbishop of Detroit, to remind Msgr. Dudziak and Cardinal elect Wuerl:
- The American Catholic Council movement and its national gathering are not conducted under the auspices of the Detroit archdiocese, the universal Roman Catholic Church, or any entity or organization affiliated with the archdiocese or the universal Roman Catholic Church.
- The archdiocese wishes to commend and embrace all true efforts at Church renewal - the American Church Council's agenda is not such an effort. Some of the advertised speakers and groups organizing the effort espouse positions which are clearly contrary to Catholic faith, leading to alienation and estrangement from the Church.
- The Archdiocese of Detroit cautions any Catholic against participating in the American Catholic Council local listening sessions and national gathering in June 2011. Catholic parishes, schools, and institutions are not to host any meetings, gatherings, or "listening sessions" associated with the planning of the June 2011 American Catholic Council. Priests, deacons, and ecclesial lay ministers will want to avoid lending support to such a misguided effort.
For shame Msgr. Dudziak, for shame.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
A Red Hat has been given to...
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
St. Rose of Lima -- How much more dissent?
Now, this is not simply a regular meeting in which they encourage women priests, married priests, etc. but this one is a a meeting to make suggestions which will then be put forward to the American Catholic Council meeting in 2011.
The problem is that the American Catholic Council, like VOTF stands in opposition to the Catholic Church. It allies itself with groups such as Call to Action and CORPUS. (I have written about these before.)
The Archbishop of Detroit has issued a strong statement regarding this meeting in 2011:
The Archdiocese of Detroit has been contacted by concerned members of the faithful about a movement called the American Catholic Council. Self-described as "bringing together a network of individuals, organizations, and communities to consider the state and future of our Church," they have planned a national gathering in Detroit for the weekend of Pentecost 2011. The American Catholic Council movement and its national gathering are not conducted under the auspices of the Detroit archdiocese, the universal Roman Catholic Church, or any entity or organization affiliated with the archdiocese or the universal Roman Catholic Church.
Although their stated purpose is to "respond to the Spirit of Vatican II by summoning the Baptized together to demonstrate our re-commitment and the documents issued by the American Catholic Council offer some valid aspirations for the Church, in fact, the goals proposed are largely in opposition to the teachings of the Second Vatican Council and the Holy Spirit, which inspired the Council.
The archdiocese wishes to commend and embrace all true efforts at Church renewal - the American Church Council's agenda is not such an effort. Some of the advertised speakers and groups organizing the effort espouse positions which are clearly contrary to Catholic faith, leading to alienation and estrangement from the Church. The Archdiocese of Detroit cautions any Catholic against participating in the American Catholic Council local listening sessions and national gathering in June 2011. Catholic parishes, schools, and institutions are not to host any meetings, gatherings, or "listening sessions" associated with the planning of the June 2011 American Catholic Council. Priests, deacons, and ecclesial lay ministers will want to avoid lending support to such a misguided effort. On behalf of the archdiocese, Archbishop Vigneron has asked the organizers to cancel their plans for this national gathering that distorts the true Spirit of Vatican II. He asks us all to pray for the guidance of the Holy Spirit so that we may embrace authentic development of faith and morals, and shun efforts which threaten unity.
Archbishop Wuerl...you must support your brother bishop here!
Hyattsville, wake up! Your inaction only helps to subvert the Faith.
If they wish to meet, let them do so at the local library or American Legion Post. Don't let them meet at a Roman Catholic Parish.
Monday, October 18, 2010
Repost: Non-Catholic "Spiritualization" and St. Rose of Lima
To the person (Anon) who asked me about getting Dr. Timoney's or Msgr. D's side of the story, I will publish any note they may send me. I will publish it as is -- no alterations or changes. To my knowledge they have not adequately explained why they are doing this and why they are allowing Episcopalian priests (male and female), a nun who is not only practices but teaches Zen Buddhism, Presbyterians and Quakers to speak to Catholics about spirituality in a Catholic facility. If you want to do it, do it off site.
Also, I am not certain how what I have posted is gossip. This event was posted in the parish bulletin, was it not? The information on the speakers is accurate and can be found on the Shalem's Institute website. So what is gossip? That I offered my opinion? I think you may be attempting to sow the seeds of discord in Catholic unity.
Finally, I say to Anon, if I has written privately to them, do you really think that they would listen? I doubt it very much.
+++++++++++++++++++
I thought that it was enough that St. Rose had VOTF but now I am really wondering what they are doing with the support of the Archdiocese.It seems that the Dr. Susan Timoney, of the Archdiocese Secretariat for Pastoral Ministry and Social Concerns is hosting an series of "bringing spritiuality into relationships" by the Shalem Institute.Now, whenever I see such things, it really starts to set off the "something just doesn't seeem right" gut feeling. Now, the Shalem Institute and the members may be nice people and may be right for certain organizations but I am not so certain about Catholics "hosting" this.According to the advertisement:
Faith-full Listening:
A Series on Spiritual Friendship, explores the relationship between prayerful listening to God and nurturing spiritual friendship with others. The emphasis will be on informal, spontaneous spiritual friendships rather than on the formal ministry of spiritual direction.When you look at the Shalem Institute, it is a Christian but not Catholic. It talks usually of spiritual but not Jesus and the Holy Spirit. It's presenters are mostly not Catholic. (You mean, the Archdiocese and St. Rose could not find any Catholic speakers on the topic?)So, here are the speakers:
- Tilden Edwards: Episcopal Priest
- Rose Mary Dougherty, SSND (School Sisters of Notre Dame) is a sensei (teacher) in the lineage of the White Plum Asanga (zen buddhism), she teaches Zen meditation in various settings and assists people in integrating contemplative presence and just action in their lives. (Now that should raise some eyebrows.)
- Carole Crumley: Episcopal Priest
- Ann Dean: Minister in the ecumenical community of the Church of the Saviour since 1994 and is a member of the Dayspring Retreat Mission Group
- Patience Robbins: I don't have much information on her, but she will lead talk at the Hyattsville Mennonite Church about on "Earth Mystic" Julia Butterfly Hill - an American activist and environmentalist best known for living in a 180-foot roughly 1500-year-old California Redwood for 738 days.
- Leah Rampy: Ordained Elder and Deacon at the Lewinsville Presbyterian Church.
- Bill Dietrich: Quaker
- Liz Ward: Spiritual director at Virginia Theological Seminary (Episcopal Church) and an elected member of the Commission on Ministry and a discernment facilitator for the Diocese of Virginia.
So, I have some questions:
- Why is the Archdiocese spending $$ on presentations by non-Catholics on spirituality, esp. with what I call a questionable Catholic nun. I know that there is a fee for this, but there are always behind the scenes expenses.
- Why is this being done at a Catholic Church.
- Are their no Catholics who can do a presentation like this, using Catholic teachings?
- Why does Dr. Susan Timoney still have this position with the Archdiocese, when she helps to support and present things which are not in the Roman Catholic tradition?
Friday, October 15, 2010
Another Stupid Biden Quote
http://www.realclearpolitics.com/video/2010/10/08/biden_if_we_lose_were_going_to_play_hell.html
PS: You know, I can probably put together a book on this.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
I guess this is what is meant by the New Evangelization (St.Rose and the Archdiodocese)
It seems that the Dr. Susan Timoney, of the Archdiocese Secretariat for Pastoral Ministry and Social Concerns is hosting an series of "bringing spritiuality into relationships" by the Shalem Institute.
Now, whenever I see such things, it really starts to set off the "something just doesn't seeem right" gut feeling.
Now, the Shalem Institute and the members may be nice people and may be right for certain organizations but I am not so certain about Catholics "hosting" this.
According to the advertisement:
When you look at the Shalem Institute, it is a Christian but not Catholic. It talks usually of spiritual but not Jesus and the Holy Spirit. It's presenters are mostly not Catholic. (You mean, the Archdiocese and St. Rose could not find any Catholic speakers on the topic?)
So, here are the speakers:
- Tilden Edwards: Episcopal Priest
- Rose Mary Dougherty, SSND (School Sisters of Notre Dame) is a sensei (teacher) in the lineage of the White Plum Asanga (zen buddhism), she teaches Zen meditation in various settings and assists people in integrating contemplative presence and just action in their lives. (Now that should raise some eyebrows.)
- Carole Crumley: Episcopal Priest
- Ann Dean: Minister in the ecumenical community of the Church of the Saviour since 1994 and is a member of the Dayspring Retreat Mission Group
- Patience Robbins: I don't have much information on her, but she will lead talk at the Hyattsville Mennonite Church about on "Earth Mystic" Julia Butterfly Hill - an American activist and environmentalist best known for living in a 180-foot roughly 1500-year-old California Redwood for 738 days.
- Leah Rampy: Ordained Elder and Deacon at the Lewinsville Presbyterian Church.
- Bill Dietrich: Quaker
- Liz Ward: Spiritual director at Virginia Theological Seminary (Episcopal Church) and an elected member of the Commission on Ministry and a discernment facilitator for the Diocese of Virginia.
So, I have some questions:
- Why is the Archdiocese spending $$ on presentations by non-Catholics on spirituality, esp. with what I call a questionable Catholic nun. I know that there is a fee for this, but there are always behind the scenes expenses.
- Whys is this being done at a Catholic Church.
- Are their no Catholics who can do a presentation like this, using Catholic teachings?
- Why does Dr. Susan Timoney still have this position with the Archdiocese, when she helps to support and present things which are not in the Roman Catholic tradition?
Monday, October 11, 2010
Catholic Standard Weekly Update
The cover story is the Annual Red Mass and as I had predicted, there was no mention of Vice President Joe Biden, the highest elected Catholyc official in the United States, receiving Communion. Nope, not a mention. Why would we insist that the Archbishop do something like not providing Communion to a pro-abortion, pro-homosexual marriage politician. (At least they only made mention and did not have a photo of him.)
We have an inside cover story on the veneration of the Don Bosco relic at the National Shrine.
The Archbishop's New Evangelization program was once again highlighted in his visit to St. Elizabeth's School. In addition, we also see this program being highlighted to the John Carroll Society. I guess that the New Evangelization program does not include calling pro-abortion politicians on the carpet.
One of the most interesting changes, and one that I doubt most people will notice, are the changes to the Catholic Charities program. For example, the Spanish Catholic Center will move from Langly Park to the McCarrick Center near Wheaton (actually, it is closer to Glenmont). There are a host of other changes. It makes me wonder if the changes are part of a cost saving measure over the next few years...less leased/rented space.
There is a story of the installation of the first layperon to be President of St. John's College and that of St. Mary's Riken sister school program.
Finally, I will end this Update with one of the saddest stories in a while: That of the death of Navy Seal, Lt. Brendon Looney, who died in Afghanistan. He is a graduate of DeMatha and his sisters are either graduates or current students at the Academy of the Holy Cross. He is buried in Arlington next to that of his best buddy -- Marine 1st Lt. Manion.
Eternal rest grant unto him , O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
Let us also remember his wife, parents and sisters. May God help them through this time of suffering.
Friday, October 8, 2010
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Stupid Biden Quote (or was he telling us the truth?)
Vice President Joe Biden has told Democrats at a Minnesota fundraiser that he'll "strangle" members of the GOP who complain about the federal budget.
According to a pool report from Tuesday's event in Dayton, Biden was telling the crowd that Democrats know how to balance the budget. He said, "If I hear one more Republican tell me about balancing the budget, I am going to strangle them."
Maybe I should call the FBI and report him for making threats. Wouldn't that be a hoot.
For the rest of the story, click here.
Monday, October 4, 2010
Another Scandal: Biden Receives Communion at Red Mass
However, we seem to have a scandal.
It seems that Vice President Joe Biden, the highest ranking elected Catholyc in the nation, did receive Holy Communion. Altough the Washington Post does not mention it (and I doubt that the Catholic Standard will in this week's edition -- but let's wait and see), we have an eye witness account of the VP receiving Communion:
The actual service was incredibly special. It started off with a large procession of dozens of bishops and priests, accompanied by incense and the powerful organ and brilliant choir of St. Matthew’s Cathedral. Members of the Knights of Columbus proceeded to the front of the church with the American flag, and the choir led the national anthem. It was fascinating to see the flag raised in the very classical-styled Cathedral; it was an interesting moment of church meeting state. I also enjoyed seeing Vice President Biden and Chief Justice Roberts walk up at the same time to receive communion.
For more on the event, go here.
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Rush once again mentions Obama's failure to support DC Opportunity Scholarships...
Is a red hat in order?
The question will then become, how much longer will he remain in Washington? Will he move on to other places -- possibly to Rome. My buddy Melvin believes that in a year or so, he will move on to a position in Rome.
Just a hunch.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
This is the second time...and simply not a coincidence...
The President of the United States has omitted the word "creator" twice. This is deliberate. This is not a silly mistake. He has done it for a reason.
CNS News has a report on this with some analysis. If you read the Forbes Magazine piece on Obama by Dinesh D'Souza, it really makes a lot of sense.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Giving Anglicans a Wuerl
For the complete story and cable television story, go here.
Monday, September 27, 2010
The Catholic Tea Kettle has just started to boil over..
Over the past two weeks, I've had extensive discussions with a wide group of Catholic leaders about the state of the Church in the United States. The frustration and impatience among Catholics, which I discussed last February in "Is It Time for a Catholic Tea Party?," continue to grow.
The occasions for this discussion were the Catholic Leadership Conference held in Philadelphia earlier this month, immediately followed by the Faith & Freedom Coalition Conference and the 15th Annual Partnership Dinner benefiting InsideCatholic, both held in Washington, D.C.
The broad background for this discontent is well known: Lay Catholics cannot understand why, over the past 30 years, more bishops haven't taken a stronger public stand on Catholic politicians who openly dissent on life and marriage issues.
Something has gone wrong when those who publicly profess the Catholic faith feel no compunction about openly defying its teachings at the urging of their bishops. On top of that, a group called "Catholics United" announces it will spend $500,000 to reelect those same politicians, all Democrats -- and not a single bishop makes any comment.
The Catholic tea kettle continues to boil, as the patience of many of the lay faithful is running out.
Friday, September 24, 2010
Anglicans: Interested in joining the Catholic Church in the US..Please call...
The Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (CDF) has named the archbishop as its delegate in this position, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) reports. Archbishop Wuerl also heads the U.S. bishops’ ad hoc committee that is assisting the CDF in implementing the apostolic constitution, which Pope Benedict XVI issued in November 2009.
Other members of the ad hoc committee are Bishop Kevin Vann of Fort Worth, Texas and Bishop Robert McManus of Worcester, Massachusetts.
The committee is assisted by Fr. Scott Hurd. He was ordained an Episcopal priest in 1993, joined the Catholic Church in 1996, and was ordained a Catholic priest for the Archdiocese of Washington in 2000.
For more, go to Catholic News Agency.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
CCHD funding Obama's Health Care Supporters?
The organization People Improving Communities through Organizing (PICO) is reportedly planning to distribute 50,000 door hangers in lower-income communities within the next two weeks. PICO regularly meets with the administration and last week participated in an HHS-run call for faith-based groups.
For more, go to Catholic News Agency.
If I remember correctly (and I don't have time to fully research), PICO and PICO related groups have and are receiving CCHD money.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Catholycs for Equality are Not Catholic
Catholics for Equality had requested a meeting with Archbishop for the Military Services Timothy Broglio, claiming he offered misleading and false arguments in his June 1 statement against allowing open homosexuals to serve in the U.S. military.
To read more, go to Catholic New Agency.
Thank you Archbishop Broglio.
I myself received a mass mailing from them to my awashingtondccatholic@gmail.com account, asking for support and money.
One of the names on the email was the Rev. Joseph Palacios. Again, I publicly ask: Does he have faculties in this Archdiocese? If yes, then why? If not, and he celebrates the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, why does not the diocese put a stop to it?
Should not part of the New Evangelization be geared towards ensuring that the faithful are not lead astray?