Citing concerns that some groups funded by the Catholic Campaign for Human Development fail to follow church teaching, Bishop Lawrence E. Brandt of Greensburg, Pa., has withdrawn support for the U.S. bishops' nationwide anti-poverty program.
Bishop Brandt's decision brings to eight the number of dioceses that have either temporarily or permanently stopped supporting CCHD since 2009.
More from CNS
Archbishop Wuerl, you know, as well as all of us, of the mis-management of the Catholic Campaign for Human Development. Won't you join your brother bishops by ending support of this?
Friday, April 30, 2010
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
The Parish Self Assessment
The Archbishop's Weekly Column focused on The Parish Self Assessment.
According to the article, it is an "instrument" that "allows a self-assessment based on identifiable, objective norms in the area of worship, education, community life, service and administration."
In other words, it is a form the pastor (and his staff) fill out based on certain baseline. Now, I will admit, I have not seen one (have any of you?) but I complete these sorts of things at work on a quarterly basis.
I do remember my pastor telling me about a similar report many years ago. Each year, he had to tell the Cardinal how many baptisms, confirmations, weddings, the various parish groups (with membership numbers, if available), the number of community events, special events, etc.
But does this really tell the story of what is happening in a parish. Yes and no.
It tells you lots of numbers and numbers can tell a story that people want to hear. But as you know, there is the story behind the story.
Does it tell the Archdiocese that the parish rarely sees their pastor or assistants at various events? Nope.
Does it tell the Archdiocese how many people have left the parish (but they may still be registered) because there is no sense of community? Nope.
Does it tell the Archdiocese that the religious education program is run by an incompetent DRE? Nope.
Does it tell the Archdiocese that a parish looks the other way when it comes to certain matters of faith and morals. Nope.
I would love to see some of these reports. From what I have heard about some of our parishes, it would make for some entertaining reading.
According to the article, it is an "instrument" that "allows a self-assessment based on identifiable, objective norms in the area of worship, education, community life, service and administration."
In other words, it is a form the pastor (and his staff) fill out based on certain baseline. Now, I will admit, I have not seen one (have any of you?) but I complete these sorts of things at work on a quarterly basis.
I do remember my pastor telling me about a similar report many years ago. Each year, he had to tell the Cardinal how many baptisms, confirmations, weddings, the various parish groups (with membership numbers, if available), the number of community events, special events, etc.
But does this really tell the story of what is happening in a parish. Yes and no.
It tells you lots of numbers and numbers can tell a story that people want to hear. But as you know, there is the story behind the story.
Does it tell the Archdiocese that the parish rarely sees their pastor or assistants at various events? Nope.
Does it tell the Archdiocese how many people have left the parish (but they may still be registered) because there is no sense of community? Nope.
Does it tell the Archdiocese that the religious education program is run by an incompetent DRE? Nope.
Does it tell the Archdiocese that a parish looks the other way when it comes to certain matters of faith and morals. Nope.
I would love to see some of these reports. From what I have heard about some of our parishes, it would make for some entertaining reading.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Catholic Standard - Part 2
Well, it is time to remind each of you what was not reported in this week's Catholic Standard.
Mr. Richard Szezepanowski, the reporter assigned to this, noted very clearly that Archbishop Wuerl is ending his term as the Chairman of the National Catholic Education Association Board of Directors, and was honored for his "exceptional leadership."
However, he seems to have missed something. Do any of you remember what that is? It was reported on this blog (and others) on March 2, 1010?
Yes, folks, it seems that he left out the fact that the keynote speaker was Garrison Keillor. Most of us know him from Prairie Home Companion and probably think he is one of those quaint humorists. But did you know that he supports same sex marriage and abortions?
Now, how did Mr. Szczepanowski forget to leave it out?
We also have the story on Page 14 about the John Carroll Society. Congratulations to all who were honored.
But again, there was just something missing from the story. Now what was it...
Oh yes, it seems that the keynote speaker that night was to be Sr. Carol Keehan.
Now, you must remember her, she is the president of the Catholic Health Association. Still don't?
She came just days before the vote on the Health Care and supported it? Still don't? Well then, you should remember that she received on of the signature pens that the Most Merciful, Barack Obama of the Regime used to sign the bill into law.
Well, she was to be the keynote speaker but suddenly decided that it probably wasn't the best time to speak at the dinner.
Funny how Mr. Mark Zimmerman neglected to put that in the story.
There seems to be some serious memory loss at the Catholic Standard these days.
Mr. Richard Szezepanowski, the reporter assigned to this, noted very clearly that Archbishop Wuerl is ending his term as the Chairman of the National Catholic Education Association Board of Directors, and was honored for his "exceptional leadership."
However, he seems to have missed something. Do any of you remember what that is? It was reported on this blog (and others) on March 2, 1010?
Yes, folks, it seems that he left out the fact that the keynote speaker was Garrison Keillor. Most of us know him from Prairie Home Companion and probably think he is one of those quaint humorists. But did you know that he supports same sex marriage and abortions?
Now, how did Mr. Szczepanowski forget to leave it out?
We also have the story on Page 14 about the John Carroll Society. Congratulations to all who were honored.
But again, there was just something missing from the story. Now what was it...
Oh yes, it seems that the keynote speaker that night was to be Sr. Carol Keehan.
Now, you must remember her, she is the president of the Catholic Health Association. Still don't?
She came just days before the vote on the Health Care and supported it? Still don't? Well then, you should remember that she received on of the signature pens that the Most Merciful, Barack Obama of the Regime used to sign the bill into law.
Well, she was to be the keynote speaker but suddenly decided that it probably wasn't the best time to speak at the dinner.
Funny how Mr. Mark Zimmerman neglected to put that in the story.
There seems to be some serious memory loss at the Catholic Standard these days.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Catholic Standard Weekly Update - Part 1
Well folks, it has been quite a while that I have put together one of these.
So, here are some items...
The Archbishop visited with Pope Benedict as part of the Papal Foundation visit.
Congratulations to the Mount Calvary students who participated in the College of Southern Maryland Robotic Challenge. They were awarded the 2010 Community Award.
We mourn the loss of Sgt Hector Ayala of the Montgomery County Police Department, who died in the line of duty. Please keep him and his family in your prayers.
Catholic Charities to celebrate the 25th Annual Gala (and for those of you it Takoma Park, it is a fundraiser). Yes, you remember them, they recently honored the head of the Catholic Campaign for Humand Development with an award. Makes you wonder if they really deserve another 25 years.
The Catholic Business Network of MoCo presented scholarships to 12 young men and woman. Congratulations!
The Standard this week did something that I have been advocating for almost two years: Let everyone know which politiican did or did not support our efforts.
This week, they identified every member of the Maryland House Ways and Means Committee who did or did not support BOAST. It is about time all of our readers know who was there for us, and who was not. And if you looked closely, everyone one who voted against BOAST -- with the exception of one -- was a Democrat.
In the next installment, we will let you know what was not reported.
Remember, your parish pays to have the Standard (whether they like it or not), so pick up a copy and drop a little in the plate for it.
So, here are some items...
The Archbishop visited with Pope Benedict as part of the Papal Foundation visit.
Congratulations to the Mount Calvary students who participated in the College of Southern Maryland Robotic Challenge. They were awarded the 2010 Community Award.
We mourn the loss of Sgt Hector Ayala of the Montgomery County Police Department, who died in the line of duty. Please keep him and his family in your prayers.
Catholic Charities to celebrate the 25th Annual Gala (and for those of you it Takoma Park, it is a fundraiser). Yes, you remember them, they recently honored the head of the Catholic Campaign for Humand Development with an award. Makes you wonder if they really deserve another 25 years.
The Catholic Business Network of MoCo presented scholarships to 12 young men and woman. Congratulations!
The Standard this week did something that I have been advocating for almost two years: Let everyone know which politiican did or did not support our efforts.
This week, they identified every member of the Maryland House Ways and Means Committee who did or did not support BOAST. It is about time all of our readers know who was there for us, and who was not. And if you looked closely, everyone one who voted against BOAST -- with the exception of one -- was a Democrat.
In the next installment, we will let you know what was not reported.
Remember, your parish pays to have the Standard (whether they like it or not), so pick up a copy and drop a little in the plate for it.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Stupid Biden Quote
Once again, I bring you one of the more memorable quotes from the highest elected Catholyc in the United States: Joseph Biden.
When the stock market crashed, Franklin Roosevelt got on the television and didn't just talk about the princes of greed. He said, "look, here's what happened."
Interview with CBS News, September 2008. The problem is that Roosevelt wasn't president in 1929 and televisions were still experimental.
When the stock market crashed, Franklin Roosevelt got on the television and didn't just talk about the princes of greed. He said, "look, here's what happened."
Interview with CBS News, September 2008. The problem is that Roosevelt wasn't president in 1929 and televisions were still experimental.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Card. Castrillon will not be celebrant for Pontifical Mass in Washington DC
Fr. Z has posted this on his blog:
In consultation with His Eminence, Dario Cardinal Castrillon Hoyos, The Paulus Institute has agreed to seek another celebrant for the Pontifical Solemn High Mass taking place on April 24th.This action will help maintain the solemnity, reverence and beauty of the Mass.
But the Mass will go on!
To read more, go here.
In consultation with His Eminence, Dario Cardinal Castrillon Hoyos, The Paulus Institute has agreed to seek another celebrant for the Pontifical Solemn High Mass taking place on April 24th.This action will help maintain the solemnity, reverence and beauty of the Mass.
But the Mass will go on!
To read more, go here.
Catholic, Partying and Hooking Up
I have not visited Fr. Greg's blog in a while. So I decided to take a look see.
His homily, for the 3rd Sunday of Easter, I know will resonate w/ the college crowd but should also resonate with may of us.
It make me think of a conversation that I just had with a high school friend of mine and the situations we put ourselves in.
As a Catholic, do we do things that we really should not do and consider ourselves to be still good Catholics? Do we put ourselves into situations that we should not?
I also think it debunks the myth that many non-Catholics put forward that Catholic priests have no clue about what is happening in real life.
Just some random thoughts and take a look at his blog. Has some food for thought.
His homily, for the 3rd Sunday of Easter, I know will resonate w/ the college crowd but should also resonate with may of us.
It make me think of a conversation that I just had with a high school friend of mine and the situations we put ourselves in.
As a Catholic, do we do things that we really should not do and consider ourselves to be still good Catholics? Do we put ourselves into situations that we should not?
I also think it debunks the myth that many non-Catholics put forward that Catholic priests have no clue about what is happening in real life.
Just some random thoughts and take a look at his blog. Has some food for thought.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Everything is hunky-dory in our Parishes...
A friend of mine (thanks Melvin) brought to my attention the Archbishop's Weekly Column in the Catholic Standard. (BTW, if it is "My Catholic Standard" then can it be "Your Catholic Standard." Maybe their should be a change to "Our Catholic Standard." I digress here for the moment.)
If you have not read it, we basically find out that things are going beautifully in every parish in the diocese. They are filled with faith, parishioners are happy, pastors are always engaged and everyone loves them.
Let's be honest here. There are many good things which go on in parishes. However, we do have a number of problems. An Archbishop who honors pro-abortion, pro-homosexual Catholics. We have dissenting organizations still meeting in our parishes. We have parishes which are politicizing the Mass. Parishes which do not follow the the Liturgy as they should. Priests who would prefer not to have to deal with parishioners. Do I need to say more?
In fact, what I have noticed that since I have begun this blog, some parishes have done whatever they can to keep their dissent just below the surface. Fewer announcements in the parish bulletins, more careful wording of group events, etc. I have event seen this in the Standard.
So folks, here is the chance for those of you who are so inclined to let us know if there are dissenting organizations meeting in your parish. Maybe there is a hidden Fr. Plaeger amount our priests. Maybe there is a pro-abortion politician (and everyone knows it) regularly receiving Holy Communion.
Let's hear from you.
If you have not read it, we basically find out that things are going beautifully in every parish in the diocese. They are filled with faith, parishioners are happy, pastors are always engaged and everyone loves them.
Let's be honest here. There are many good things which go on in parishes. However, we do have a number of problems. An Archbishop who honors pro-abortion, pro-homosexual Catholics. We have dissenting organizations still meeting in our parishes. We have parishes which are politicizing the Mass. Parishes which do not follow the the Liturgy as they should. Priests who would prefer not to have to deal with parishioners. Do I need to say more?
In fact, what I have noticed that since I have begun this blog, some parishes have done whatever they can to keep their dissent just below the surface. Fewer announcements in the parish bulletins, more careful wording of group events, etc. I have event seen this in the Standard.
So folks, here is the chance for those of you who are so inclined to let us know if there are dissenting organizations meeting in your parish. Maybe there is a hidden Fr. Plaeger amount our priests. Maybe there is a pro-abortion politician (and everyone knows it) regularly receiving Holy Communion.
Let's hear from you.
Monday, April 19, 2010
Earth Day - A New Feast Day?
I have begun to notice a very disturbing trend among some of our parishes in this Archdiocese. It seems that "Earth Day" is almost elevated as an important feast day. The activities surrounding Earth Day almost remind my of the festival surrounding the feast of the Church where I grew up. There was an outdoor festival with vendors, a special Mass, and novenas, etc. all leading up to that special day.
The folks over at St. Raphael has taken this to a new height.
(Oh, and even though we have Catholic schools closing around the Archdiocese, somehow they are expanding with the official groundbreaking for a new building. My sources tell me it is because they are funding it on their own and not with money from the Archdiocese. Now, I don't have a problem with them doing this, I have a problem with the Archdiocese allowing this while they let our schools close.)
I have gotten word of one religious order who has really taken this Earth Day Feast Day all the way. They are the Sisters of Providence, who were the order which ran Immaculata High School (which closed in the mid-1980s). Although they are not located in DC, here is what they tell us about this very special day:
"Going Local" Earth Day celebration
White Violet Center for Eco-Justice (WVC) is proud to announce the 12th annual Earth Day Celebration 11 a.m.-3 p.m. EDT on April 17 at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Ind.
This family-friendly event is sponsored by the Sisters of Providence of Saint-Mary-of-the-Woods near Terre Haute, Ind. This year’s theme will focus on “going local.”
WVC’s information booth will feature educational materials on the importance of supporting our local farmers, artisans, craftspersons and businesses, and the economic and environmental impact of these choices.
If you want to read more, go here.
If you decide to read it, think about who is missing from this?
Now, before I any further, I want to state for the record that I have no problem helping to ensure that the environment not destroyed by ensuring that I don't waste water, dump oil down the sewer system, recycle plastic, etc. but for some, it becomes the new religion.
The folks over at St. Raphael has taken this to a new height.
(Oh, and even though we have Catholic schools closing around the Archdiocese, somehow they are expanding with the official groundbreaking for a new building. My sources tell me it is because they are funding it on their own and not with money from the Archdiocese. Now, I don't have a problem with them doing this, I have a problem with the Archdiocese allowing this while they let our schools close.)
I have gotten word of one religious order who has really taken this Earth Day Feast Day all the way. They are the Sisters of Providence, who were the order which ran Immaculata High School (which closed in the mid-1980s). Although they are not located in DC, here is what they tell us about this very special day:
"Going Local" Earth Day celebration
White Violet Center for Eco-Justice (WVC) is proud to announce the 12th annual Earth Day Celebration 11 a.m.-3 p.m. EDT on April 17 at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Ind.
This family-friendly event is sponsored by the Sisters of Providence of Saint-Mary-of-the-Woods near Terre Haute, Ind. This year’s theme will focus on “going local.”
WVC’s information booth will feature educational materials on the importance of supporting our local farmers, artisans, craftspersons and businesses, and the economic and environmental impact of these choices.
If you want to read more, go here.
If you decide to read it, think about who is missing from this?
Friday, April 16, 2010
Stupid Biden Quote (or maybe a lie?)
Once again, I bring you another quote highlighting the intellectual honesty of the highest elected official, who happens to be Catholyc: Vice President Joe Biden.
"Hope you won't hold it against me, but I am a hard coal miner -- anthracite coal, Scranton, Pennsylvania, that's where I was born and raised," Biden said to mine workers in Virginia on Sept. 20.
While his great-grandfather was a mining engineer, his father ran a Delaware car dealership and worked in the oil business. His campaign tried to spin the comments as a joke.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
BOAST died
Well, the news from the Maryland Catholic Conference (MCC) is not good overall. It seems that BOAST was one of the things they were hoping would pass, but alas it did not.
For those of you who do not know what BOAST is...
Providing a tax credit against the State income tax for contributions made to an eligible educational scholarship organization or an eligible innovative educational organization; requiring the State Department of Education to administer the tax credit; requiring specified entities to submit an application to be an eligible organization by January 1 of each year; establishing the Building Opportunities for All Students and Teachers Reserve Fund; etc.
It would have assisted Catholic schools by allows private businesses to obtain a tax credit for supporting schools thru donations.
Even those who opposed it in previous years, realized that for every child who does not attend a Catholic school, it will cost the state an additional $11,000. Close one school of 200 students, and the state could be faced with spending an additional $2.2 million.
If you look at the sponsors of this measure -- there were 75 -- only one (1) was from MoCo. All of the other MoCo delegates refused to sponsor it.
The Chair of the Ways & Means Committee Del. Sheila Hixson (D-20) killed it.
So, let's now name the names of the MoCo Delegates who refused to sponsor this:
Rob Garagiola, Mike Lenett, Al Carr, Ben Kramer, Rona Kramer, Bill Bronrott, Jim Gilchrist. Tom Hucker, Saqib Ali, Roger Manno, Bill Frick, Craig Rice, Hank Heller, Kumar Barve, Jamie Raskin, Kirill Reznik, Nancy King, Karen Montgomery, Jeff Waldstreicher, Anne Kaiser, Brian Feldman, Susan Lee, Sheila Hixson, Jennie Forehand, Charlie Barkley, Ana Sol Gutièrrez, Kathleen Dumais, Brian Frosh, Heather Mizeur, and Luiz Simmons.
Hopefully the Spanish language paper of the Archdiocese, El Progresso, will not put Ana Sol Gutierrez in a favorable light anymore.
Are one of them your Delegate? Did you vote for them before? Maybe you should think twice before marking the ballot the next time.
Hopefully the Spanish language paper of the Archdiocese, El Progresso, will not put Ana Sol Gutierrez in a favorable light anymore.
It is time for the Archdiocese to publicize the names of all those who did not sponsor this legislation and remind the people of the Archdiocese who are and are not our friends.
For those of you who do not know what BOAST is...
Providing a tax credit against the State income tax for contributions made to an eligible educational scholarship organization or an eligible innovative educational organization; requiring the State Department of Education to administer the tax credit; requiring specified entities to submit an application to be an eligible organization by January 1 of each year; establishing the Building Opportunities for All Students and Teachers Reserve Fund; etc.
It would have assisted Catholic schools by allows private businesses to obtain a tax credit for supporting schools thru donations.
Even those who opposed it in previous years, realized that for every child who does not attend a Catholic school, it will cost the state an additional $11,000. Close one school of 200 students, and the state could be faced with spending an additional $2.2 million.
If you look at the sponsors of this measure -- there were 75 -- only one (1) was from MoCo. All of the other MoCo delegates refused to sponsor it.
The Chair of the Ways & Means Committee Del. Sheila Hixson (D-20) killed it.
So, let's now name the names of the MoCo Delegates who refused to sponsor this:
Rob Garagiola, Mike Lenett, Al Carr, Ben Kramer, Rona Kramer, Bill Bronrott, Jim Gilchrist. Tom Hucker, Saqib Ali, Roger Manno, Bill Frick, Craig Rice, Hank Heller, Kumar Barve, Jamie Raskin, Kirill Reznik, Nancy King, Karen Montgomery, Jeff Waldstreicher, Anne Kaiser, Brian Feldman, Susan Lee, Sheila Hixson, Jennie Forehand, Charlie Barkley, Ana Sol Gutièrrez, Kathleen Dumais, Brian Frosh, Heather Mizeur, and Luiz Simmons.
Hopefully the Spanish language paper of the Archdiocese, El Progresso, will not put Ana Sol Gutierrez in a favorable light anymore.
Are one of them your Delegate? Did you vote for them before? Maybe you should think twice before marking the ballot the next time.
Hopefully the Spanish language paper of the Archdiocese, El Progresso, will not put Ana Sol Gutierrez in a favorable light anymore.
It is time for the Archdiocese to publicize the names of all those who did not sponsor this legislation and remind the people of the Archdiocese who are and are not our friends.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Where have all the churches gone?
Bill and Susan are both baptized Catholics. But they rarely went to Mass. You might see them in the pews at Christmas and Easter, but that is about it. One Easter they came to Mass and had the surprise of their lives. The parking lot was empty. Going up to the church doors, they discovered that everything was locked. Confused, they almost decided just go home but it was Easter so they drove a little further to another church. Again, they were shocked. There was no one there, either. Now the mystery was intriguing them. What had happened? Had there been a revolution and the churches forcibly closed? Were the Protestants right and all the good Christians taken away by the rapture? They traveled outside of town to a third church. Here they found cars but services were ending. Although they had missed Mass, they entered the church for a quick visit and to find reassurance that nothing else had suddenly changed. Everything appeared to be in place, although the congregation seemed a bit small from the celebrations remembered in the past. They saw the priest and approached him with their puzzlement.
Susan spoke first, “Father, we are sorry about missing Mass but we had trouble finding an open church.”
Father Flynn responded, “I take it that you are new to the area. We would love to have you register here. We can always use new members.”
“No Father,” said Susan, “we have lived here all our lives. We were married at St. Margaret’s.”
“Oh my,” responded the priest, looking somewhat disturbed and maybe upset.
Bill entered the conversation, “We went to St. Margaret’s this morning and finding no one there went over to Holy Spirit. Both places were empty.”
To read more...head over to Fr. Joe's Blog. It will really make you think.
Susan spoke first, “Father, we are sorry about missing Mass but we had trouble finding an open church.”
Father Flynn responded, “I take it that you are new to the area. We would love to have you register here. We can always use new members.”
“No Father,” said Susan, “we have lived here all our lives. We were married at St. Margaret’s.”
“Oh my,” responded the priest, looking somewhat disturbed and maybe upset.
Bill entered the conversation, “We went to St. Margaret’s this morning and finding no one there went over to Holy Spirit. Both places were empty.”
To read more...head over to Fr. Joe's Blog. It will really make you think.
Monday, April 12, 2010
The Regime Excludes Catholics Again!
Well, not only does the Most Merciful, Lord High Barack Obama and the Regime, intend to keep children in failing public schools and help destroy Catholic education, they also feel that those who attend Catholic schools are not worthy to be in their presence at the Annual Easter Egg Roll:
The 3,000 reserved tickets for the event will be distributed to students at 11 D.C. public schools and several schools in Virginia and Maryland, CNSNews.com reports. Children of other schools may attend the event only if they have registered for the online lottery system through which another 27,000 free tickets will be distributed.
At the Tuesday press conference where U.S. Education Secretary Arne Duncan and D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty announced the ticket giveaway, the father of a parochial school student asked why private and parochial schools were excluded.
“These tickets are from the White House to public schools, and we’re appreciative, but there may be other things unrelated to this press conference,” Fenty responded, according to CNSNews.com. “That’s a great question."
Yes, this story is a bit old (March 24th) and you can read more about it from the Catholic News Agency.
Now, I wonder how many Catholic school parents who voted for the Most Merciful and the Regime would have loved to have their child attend the Easter Egg Roll? I guess this is the type of change they expected.
I did not see this one in the Catholic Standard -- guess we just don't want to offend the Regime now, do we.
The 3,000 reserved tickets for the event will be distributed to students at 11 D.C. public schools and several schools in Virginia and Maryland, CNSNews.com reports. Children of other schools may attend the event only if they have registered for the online lottery system through which another 27,000 free tickets will be distributed.
At the Tuesday press conference where U.S. Education Secretary Arne Duncan and D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty announced the ticket giveaway, the father of a parochial school student asked why private and parochial schools were excluded.
“These tickets are from the White House to public schools, and we’re appreciative, but there may be other things unrelated to this press conference,” Fenty responded, according to CNSNews.com. “That’s a great question."
Yes, this story is a bit old (March 24th) and you can read more about it from the Catholic News Agency.
Now, I wonder how many Catholic school parents who voted for the Most Merciful and the Regime would have loved to have their child attend the Easter Egg Roll? I guess this is the type of change they expected.
I did not see this one in the Catholic Standard -- guess we just don't want to offend the Regime now, do we.
Friday, April 9, 2010
Stupid Biden Quotes
Yes folks, it is that time to recognize the highest ranking elected official in the United States, who happens to be "Catholyc": Vice President Joseph Biden.
"Jill and I had the great honor of standing on that stage, looking across at one of the great justices, Justice Stewart." –Joe Biden, mistakenly referring to Justice John Paul Stevens, who swore him in as vice president, Washington, D.C., Jan. 20, 2009 (Watch video clip)
Have a great weekend!
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
US Census and Catholic Churches
Over the last few weeks, I have noticed in a couple of Catholic Churches have hung up posters on the Census. Now, these posters are not inside of the Church itself but are usually on the announcement boards in the community room or some other location. The posters usually ask people to complete the census, since we need to get our fair share of $$.
First, I thought that there was a separation of Church and State. Why is the Federal government asking churches to put them up? Why are we cooperating?
Second, I thought that the census was about counting how many people in the US and where they lived. I did not realize that GREED was the motivating factor and that our Catholic churches were getting right in line with one of the seven deadly sins.
On a side note...I did complete the census and answered only the first question: How many are living at my address on April 1, 2010.
However, I did decide to have a little fun with them. On the question of race, I wrote: "HUMAN."
Did you complete it? All of it, or just the number of residents?
First, I thought that there was a separation of Church and State. Why is the Federal government asking churches to put them up? Why are we cooperating?
Second, I thought that the census was about counting how many people in the US and where they lived. I did not realize that GREED was the motivating factor and that our Catholic churches were getting right in line with one of the seven deadly sins.
On a side note...I did complete the census and answered only the first question: How many are living at my address on April 1, 2010.
However, I did decide to have a little fun with them. On the question of race, I wrote: "HUMAN."
Did you complete it? All of it, or just the number of residents?
The Sunday Washington comPost
I have finally gotten around to the Sunday paper and this is what I found from Archbishop Wuerl...
Today, Christians worldwide celebrate the resurrection of Christ. Lent is over; Good Friday has passed. To a church that has experienced the deep pain of clergy sexual abuse, these days are a reminder that from pain and sorrow eventually come hope, redemption and new life.
This new life will come only by confronting sexual abuse head-on, taking responsibility for the wrongs of the past and committing to doing all that we can never to allow the tragedy of abuse to happen again. In the United States, we bishops have put in place tough standards for reporting allegations to civil authorities because we recognize that abuse is not only a sin but also a serious crime. In the Archdiocese of Washington and in dioceses nationwide, we mandate child protection training for adults and education for children. Seminarians, clergy, volunteers and employees who work with children must undergo criminal background checks. Independent advisory boards of lay experts guide our work, and, perhaps most important, we continue to reach out to those harmed to help them heal from their pain.
In 2008-09, 6 million children in the United States received lessons on recognizing inappropriate behavior and what to do if someone tries to harm them or makes them feel uncomfortable. Two million adults underwent background checks. Here in Washington, we have had a written child protection policy for nearly 25 years.
This commitment to safety has been done with the support and leadership of Pope Benedict XVI.
Personally, I would have like to have seen this earlier and more forceful in his defense of the Holy Father. To read more, go here
And, we have a story that was discussed in the Catholic Standard a few weeks ago...but they just can't seem to get it right about the Body of Christ - it is not a "wafer"
In the past few years, St. Augustine's began holding weekly instead of monthly Masses and adding prayers to other parts of the daily routine. Statues of the Virgin Mary--who is particularly central to Catholicism--were placed in each room. And three years ago, St. Augustine's, called "the mother church" for Washington's black Catholics, brought in three African nuns in traditional habits to lead the school, teach and infuse the building with a Catholic spirit.
The outcome is clear among this gaggle of children who are making spiritual decisions and commitments unfamiliar to many adults. They articulate spiritual longings not typically associated with people whose feet barely reach the floor when they sit in the pews.
To read more, go here.
Today, Christians worldwide celebrate the resurrection of Christ. Lent is over; Good Friday has passed. To a church that has experienced the deep pain of clergy sexual abuse, these days are a reminder that from pain and sorrow eventually come hope, redemption and new life.
This new life will come only by confronting sexual abuse head-on, taking responsibility for the wrongs of the past and committing to doing all that we can never to allow the tragedy of abuse to happen again. In the United States, we bishops have put in place tough standards for reporting allegations to civil authorities because we recognize that abuse is not only a sin but also a serious crime. In the Archdiocese of Washington and in dioceses nationwide, we mandate child protection training for adults and education for children. Seminarians, clergy, volunteers and employees who work with children must undergo criminal background checks. Independent advisory boards of lay experts guide our work, and, perhaps most important, we continue to reach out to those harmed to help them heal from their pain.
In 2008-09, 6 million children in the United States received lessons on recognizing inappropriate behavior and what to do if someone tries to harm them or makes them feel uncomfortable. Two million adults underwent background checks. Here in Washington, we have had a written child protection policy for nearly 25 years.
This commitment to safety has been done with the support and leadership of Pope Benedict XVI.
Personally, I would have like to have seen this earlier and more forceful in his defense of the Holy Father. To read more, go here
And, we have a story that was discussed in the Catholic Standard a few weeks ago...but they just can't seem to get it right about the Body of Christ - it is not a "wafer"
In the past few years, St. Augustine's began holding weekly instead of monthly Masses and adding prayers to other parts of the daily routine. Statues of the Virgin Mary--who is particularly central to Catholicism--were placed in each room. And three years ago, St. Augustine's, called "the mother church" for Washington's black Catholics, brought in three African nuns in traditional habits to lead the school, teach and infuse the building with a Catholic spirit.
The outcome is clear among this gaggle of children who are making spiritual decisions and commitments unfamiliar to many adults. They articulate spiritual longings not typically associated with people whose feet barely reach the floor when they sit in the pews.
To read more, go here.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Pontifical Latin Mass for the Holy Father
A regular reader has asked me to post this:
This Holy Week, The Paulus Institute for the Propagation of Sacred Liturgy launched a new, dedicated website in support of the traditional Latin Solemn High Pontifical Mass to be offered on April 24, at 1 p.m., for the Holy Father on the anniversary of his papacy. I encourage you to view the site at http://pontificalmass.org. This groundbreaking Mass, offered by DarÃo Castrillón Cardinal Hoyos, will be the first Mass in the Extraordinary Form offered at the High Altar at the National Shrine in more than 40 years.
As you know, the Holy Father is under attack as never before. As Father Zuhlsdorf has written on his blog, this very special Mass for the Holy Father is an opportunity to show our solidarity with Pope Benedict and offer him our prayers during this difficult time. I hope that you will be able to attend the Mass, and importantly, I pray that you will take this opportunity to give to support this Mass at http://pontificalmass.org/donate.
EWTN has graciously agreed to cover this extraordinary event and show of support for the Holy Father. The worldwide Catholic network has even gone so far as to accommodate star commentators (including Father Zuhlsdorf) and coverage on all its worldwide satellites.
But we are still well short of our fundraising goal to cover this very substantial cost. Please consider, in your charity, donating as much as you are able to support broadcasting this Mass. Perhaps you can make a sacrificial gift for the Church and the Holy Father during this Sacred Triduum?
Throughout our planning for this Mass, we have been blessed by providence beginning with the opportune date (the anniversary of Pope Benedict's pontificate). Now I am even more convinced that the Holy Spirit is active in the timing of this Mass. Please join us at the Shine on April 24th and contribute financially to our apostolate as much as you are able. Donations are being accepted at http://pontificalmass.org . We expect thousands for this show of solidarity for the Holy Father. Its worldwide broadcast would be a powerful show of support for Pope Benedict.
This Holy Week, The Paulus Institute for the Propagation of Sacred Liturgy launched a new, dedicated website in support of the traditional Latin Solemn High Pontifical Mass to be offered on April 24, at 1 p.m., for the Holy Father on the anniversary of his papacy. I encourage you to view the site at http://pontificalmass.org. This groundbreaking Mass, offered by DarÃo Castrillón Cardinal Hoyos, will be the first Mass in the Extraordinary Form offered at the High Altar at the National Shrine in more than 40 years.
As you know, the Holy Father is under attack as never before. As Father Zuhlsdorf has written on his blog, this very special Mass for the Holy Father is an opportunity to show our solidarity with Pope Benedict and offer him our prayers during this difficult time. I hope that you will be able to attend the Mass, and importantly, I pray that you will take this opportunity to give to support this Mass at http://pontificalmass.org/donate.
EWTN has graciously agreed to cover this extraordinary event and show of support for the Holy Father. The worldwide Catholic network has even gone so far as to accommodate star commentators (including Father Zuhlsdorf) and coverage on all its worldwide satellites.
But we are still well short of our fundraising goal to cover this very substantial cost. Please consider, in your charity, donating as much as you are able to support broadcasting this Mass. Perhaps you can make a sacrificial gift for the Church and the Holy Father during this Sacred Triduum?
Throughout our planning for this Mass, we have been blessed by providence beginning with the opportune date (the anniversary of Pope Benedict's pontificate). Now I am even more convinced that the Holy Spirit is active in the timing of this Mass. Please join us at the Shine on April 24th and contribute financially to our apostolate as much as you are able. Donations are being accepted at http://pontificalmass.org . We expect thousands for this show of solidarity for the Holy Father. Its worldwide broadcast would be a powerful show of support for Pope Benedict.
Monday, April 5, 2010
Wuerl prays with sex abuse protestors
Archbishop Donald Wuerl took the unusual step of praying with protesters calling attention to the sex abuse scandal.
Wuerl has not been shy about discussing sex abuse in the Catholic Church. He has mentioned it several times since taking over the Archdiocese of Washington four years ago.
Just before leading Good Friday services at the Cathedral of St. Matthews on Friday, the Archbishop walked across the street where he joined a number of protesters in the stations of the cross.
The people protesting sex abuse in the Catholic Church were about halfway through the stations of the cross when Archbishop Wuerl crossed the street to join them.
Arriving just in time to hear the story of David Lorenz.
To read more, go here.
H/T to Deacon Greg.
Wuerl has not been shy about discussing sex abuse in the Catholic Church. He has mentioned it several times since taking over the Archdiocese of Washington four years ago.
Just before leading Good Friday services at the Cathedral of St. Matthews on Friday, the Archbishop walked across the street where he joined a number of protesters in the stations of the cross.
The people protesting sex abuse in the Catholic Church were about halfway through the stations of the cross when Archbishop Wuerl crossed the street to join them.
Arriving just in time to hear the story of David Lorenz.
To read more, go here.
H/T to Deacon Greg.
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