Word is Medjugorje, the controversial apparitions the former Yugoslavia, is going to be condemned. In case you did not know, Medjugorje has a notorious reputation among theologians. The immoral actions of the followers and apparitionists is part of the discernment of the Church. They have not been obedient to the Magisterium.
Discernment of Spirits
The highest discernment is found in the dogma of the Moral Law, which includes the Ten Commandments. Violations of these Commandments is indicative of not having a valid vision or apparition. Many theologians have given the various signs of discernment of spirits in regard to extraordinary experiences, like visions,. locutions (voices) and purported miracles.
Certain fruits like peace, humility, certitude (strange hope), persistence of the experience, increase in virtue and other characteristics of the experience are part of the discernment. Also, the person who experiences such a phenomena should wait at least 30 days until he accepts the phenomena as valid. Of course, all the characteristics should be present during this time.
Detachment
No more important characteristic the detachment regarding the experience. If an adherent or visionary is detached and open to being wrong about the experience, they have a good chance of having had a valid experience.
Submission to the Magisterium (Church)
If the purported visionary is submissive to the judgment of the Church, this indicates another good fruit of the phenomena. In the case of Medjugorje, the visions told them to obey their local bishop. This is a problem because it is a dogma of the Church that the local bishop has authority over his flock administratively.
That is, when he issues a decree, it should be obeyed. This is an issue about policy, not doctrine, so the reader should not get confused. Individual bishops only have doctrinal authority when they are in union with the Holy Father and their fellow bishops. A bishop by himself has no doctrinal authority, but does have administrative authority (power of making policy and day-to-day decisions).
A Lesson for Us All
It is easy to Catholics to go astray. Christ gave doctrinal authority to the bishops (Luke 10:14, Lumen Gentium 14) Not to the faithful. The pope has the final say, and can act with the bishops to make a decision. Also the various papal congregations have a limited authority as well.
We should strive to be detached from any such experience and open it up to discernment by others, especially a qualified spiritual director or the Church. In this way, we hold ourselves accountable to that institution that Christ founded with his divine authority of infallibility - The Magisterium of the Catholic Church.
The more humble you are, the more likely your experience is authentic. If you are improperly attached, it is not likely you experienced something from God. If you are in submission to the Church, you cannot go astray, if you remain faithful to her doctrine and directives.
May the Blessed Trinity bless you abundantly and Christ's Holy Mother's prayers always intercede for you that your discerment and life always be true. +
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
The Father Guarnizo Affair
I want to revisit the Father Guarnizo affair. This was a case in which the Archdiocese of Washington suspended the faculties of Father Marcel Guarnizo after he refused communion to lesbian activist, Barbara Johnson.The immediate reaction of the diocese, seems to have been one of immediate suspension of Father Guarnizo, without due consideration of the facts of the case.
The Archdiocese did not explain the circumstances of the case. Neither, did they chastise Barbara Johnson for receiving communion when she made a point making her manifest grave sin known to a priest, as if she wanted to flaunt it in Father Guarnizo's face.
Barbara was at a funeral for her mother, and made known, according to Father Guarnizo, that she was a lesbian and that the woman with her was her "partner." Father Guarnizo had a right to be morally offended, as any Christian of good conscience should have been.
Canon 915 of the Code of Canon Law states that a person who "obstinately persist[s] in manifest grave sin" is to be refused communion. Alot of commentary from canon lawyers insued, in which they said Father Guarnizo had to be aware of the circumstances of a person's life in order to judge that. I find that funny, because the facts of the case, on the face, are that she was a manifest grave sinner being in a lesbian relationship which is "intrinsically disordered" according to paragraph 2357 of the Catechism of the Catholic Church.
Objectively, Barbara Johnson should have not been admitted to holy communion. Because, objectively, she was a manifest grave sinner. Father Guarnizo had a right to act on this knowledge when it was presented to him. Father Guarnizo later states that he did it based on "one of those relations which impede her access to communion according to Catholic teaching ," which does not help his case. Because it was on the part of Barbara to withhold herself from holy communion.
Objectively, however, Father Guarnizo was correct, regardless of his reason for doing it. Simply based on the facts, Father Guarnizo intuited the refusal of holy communion correctly, but for the wrong reasons. So, based on the facts again, Father Guarnizo should not have been suspended if it was based on his refusal.
The Archdiocese later said that he was suspended for reasons unrelated to this case. This has a giggle factor and is very suspicious given the timing of the announcement. While we do not have all the facts in our possession, the suspension was too suspicious for my taste.
Currently, the case of Father Guarnizo is in my rosary. I ask that all of you place it in yours. If he is innocent, let our Blessed Mother's prayers free him. If Bishop Knestout is guilty, let our Lord chastise him and he repent. If there has been a grave injustice here, let it be repaired and a good priest be returned to his ministry.
If all of this is true, may the Archdiocese of Washington make public restitution and repair his good name.
Here is a canonical defense of Father Guarnizo's actions. Here is a canonical criticism.
The Archdiocese did not explain the circumstances of the case. Neither, did they chastise Barbara Johnson for receiving communion when she made a point making her manifest grave sin known to a priest, as if she wanted to flaunt it in Father Guarnizo's face.
Barbara was at a funeral for her mother, and made known, according to Father Guarnizo, that she was a lesbian and that the woman with her was her "partner." Father Guarnizo had a right to be morally offended, as any Christian of good conscience should have been.
Canon 915 of the Code of Canon Law states that a person who "obstinately persist[s] in manifest grave sin" is to be refused communion. Alot of commentary from canon lawyers insued, in which they said Father Guarnizo had to be aware of the circumstances of a person's life in order to judge that. I find that funny, because the facts of the case, on the face, are that she was a manifest grave sinner being in a lesbian relationship which is "intrinsically disordered" according to paragraph 2357 of the Catechism of the Catholic Church.
Objectively, Barbara Johnson should have not been admitted to holy communion. Because, objectively, she was a manifest grave sinner. Father Guarnizo had a right to act on this knowledge when it was presented to him. Father Guarnizo later states that he did it based on "one of those relations which impede her access to communion according to Catholic teaching ," which does not help his case. Because it was on the part of Barbara to withhold herself from holy communion.
Objectively, however, Father Guarnizo was correct, regardless of his reason for doing it. Simply based on the facts, Father Guarnizo intuited the refusal of holy communion correctly, but for the wrong reasons. So, based on the facts again, Father Guarnizo should not have been suspended if it was based on his refusal.
The Archdiocese later said that he was suspended for reasons unrelated to this case. This has a giggle factor and is very suspicious given the timing of the announcement. While we do not have all the facts in our possession, the suspension was too suspicious for my taste.
Currently, the case of Father Guarnizo is in my rosary. I ask that all of you place it in yours. If he is innocent, let our Blessed Mother's prayers free him. If Bishop Knestout is guilty, let our Lord chastise him and he repent. If there has been a grave injustice here, let it be repaired and a good priest be returned to his ministry.
If all of this is true, may the Archdiocese of Washington make public restitution and repair his good name.
Here is a canonical defense of Father Guarnizo's actions. Here is a canonical criticism.
Friday, August 24, 2012
Alan Keyes
Alan Keyes is a former presidential candidate. This is where I encountered him first. Later he had a radio show, in which he gave his conservative, Catholic insights. I was always impressed by Alan.
As a former Assistant Secretary of State for International Organization Affairs, Alan has worked in Washington and can give solid insight on the workings of national politics
His tough stance on pro-life issues, uncompromising loyalty to the Pro-Life movement and fascinating intellect made him a must-listen talk show host for me. Secretary Keyes has not been afraid to put himself on the line for the unborn, as was demonstrated in his arrest at Notre Dame when President Barrack Obama gave the commencement address. Barrack being awarded with an honorary doctorate was the straw that broke the camel's back for me, and former Secretary Keyes was there fighting against it when I could not.
Alan has a sharp intellect that does not let fallacious arguments go. He, like myself at times, is a pit bull for the Lord on matters of faith and values. He has debated atheists, liberal politicians and many others in trying to bring justice to the public square.
Alan would make a great addition to your speaking engagement. Be warned, however, he will not pull punches, and has a direct speaking style. However, the value of his insights are worthy of any Catholic event. (Hint: Get him to speak on Pro-life issues, his tender side will come out.)
To Mr. Keyes, I thank you for your many years of service to Holy Mother Church. Your tireless work for the Lord will never be forgotten by Him. Speak on, Mr. Keyes, speak on!
As a former Assistant Secretary of State for International Organization Affairs, Alan has worked in Washington and can give solid insight on the workings of national politics
His tough stance on pro-life issues, uncompromising loyalty to the Pro-Life movement and fascinating intellect made him a must-listen talk show host for me. Secretary Keyes has not been afraid to put himself on the line for the unborn, as was demonstrated in his arrest at Notre Dame when President Barrack Obama gave the commencement address. Barrack being awarded with an honorary doctorate was the straw that broke the camel's back for me, and former Secretary Keyes was there fighting against it when I could not.
Alan has a sharp intellect that does not let fallacious arguments go. He, like myself at times, is a pit bull for the Lord on matters of faith and values. He has debated atheists, liberal politicians and many others in trying to bring justice to the public square.
Alan would make a great addition to your speaking engagement. Be warned, however, he will not pull punches, and has a direct speaking style. However, the value of his insights are worthy of any Catholic event. (Hint: Get him to speak on Pro-life issues, his tender side will come out.)
To Mr. Keyes, I thank you for your many years of service to Holy Mother Church. Your tireless work for the Lord will never be forgotten by Him. Speak on, Mr. Keyes, speak on!
Thursday, August 9, 2012
The Myth of a Thick Skin
No one has a "thick skin." I studied this in Psychology for years. You would not believe the victims of verbal sexual and verbal emotional abuse that counselors treat in their daily work. I have many Psychologist and therapist friends who talk about it daily.
When I hear this term I just shake my head and ignore most of what the person says after that. Speech Communication theory has studied cussing extensively. What is not surprising is that cussing is universally offensive, even to the person doing the cussing. Anyone heard of self-abuse?
Low Self-Esteem
Low self-esteem is often caused by verbal abuse. Calling someone stupid or an idiot is not something a person can brush off if the person doing the abusing is their family member. These persons are close to you, they have a deep effect on your life. If you are called dumb as a child these attacks often become "tapes" that replay in the victim's mind over and over again throughout your life, until the tapes are dealt with in a healthy way.
People are sending messages all the time. If someone is sexually abused, the message that is sent is "you are worthless" and "a sexual object to be used." The abuser does not have to say a thing. It is communicated by the action of the abuse. If you were worthwhile in their mind, they would not abuse you.
Final Thoughts
Get rid of the "thick skin" analogy, research disproves it. In apologetics and evangelization I often encounter people who cuss or call names. I ask them to stop. If they continue, I cut off communication. When they can calmly talk about a subject, I am with them. When they want to abuse, I am gone.
What happens over time, and many people have told me this. is that they learn to be respectful. It is part of the evangelization. Otherwise, they are gone.
If a evangelee has a different opinion on something, I can deal with that. If another person wants to attack, there is the door. Come back when you are respectful. I can put up with some slips, but intentional attacking is off-limits. Learn to respect yourself and others will begin to respect you.
When I hear this term I just shake my head and ignore most of what the person says after that. Speech Communication theory has studied cussing extensively. What is not surprising is that cussing is universally offensive, even to the person doing the cussing. Anyone heard of self-abuse?
Low Self-Esteem
Low self-esteem is often caused by verbal abuse. Calling someone stupid or an idiot is not something a person can brush off if the person doing the abusing is their family member. These persons are close to you, they have a deep effect on your life. If you are called dumb as a child these attacks often become "tapes" that replay in the victim's mind over and over again throughout your life, until the tapes are dealt with in a healthy way.
People are sending messages all the time. If someone is sexually abused, the message that is sent is "you are worthless" and "a sexual object to be used." The abuser does not have to say a thing. It is communicated by the action of the abuse. If you were worthwhile in their mind, they would not abuse you.
Final Thoughts
Get rid of the "thick skin" analogy, research disproves it. In apologetics and evangelization I often encounter people who cuss or call names. I ask them to stop. If they continue, I cut off communication. When they can calmly talk about a subject, I am with them. When they want to abuse, I am gone.
What happens over time, and many people have told me this. is that they learn to be respectful. It is part of the evangelization. Otherwise, they are gone.
If a evangelee has a different opinion on something, I can deal with that. If another person wants to attack, there is the door. Come back when you are respectful. I can put up with some slips, but intentional attacking is off-limits. Learn to respect yourself and others will begin to respect you.
Monday, May 14, 2012
The LCWR: It's About Time
If you did not know, the Leadership Conference for Religious Women (LCWR) has been dressed down by the Vatican. The Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (CDF) found grave and serious doctrine problems in the LCWR. For those Catholics who know their faith, this is no surprise.
The Root of the Problem
The doctrinal problems are at the root of the LCWR's problems. They are like any of the many theologians who have seperated themselves from the Church by their dissent. The Catholic Faith has one united teaching, not many. Her dogma does not change, however the LCWR seems to think it does.
As the Congregration for the Doctrine of the Faith says:
The Root of the Problem
The doctrinal problems are at the root of the LCWR's problems. They are like any of the many theologians who have seperated themselves from the Church by their dissent. The Catholic Faith has one united teaching, not many. Her dogma does not change, however the LCWR seems to think it does.
As the Congregration for the Doctrine of the Faith says:
The Cardinal noted a prevalence of certain radical feminist themes incompatible with the Catholic faith in some of the programs and presentations sponsored by the LCWR, including theological interpretations that risk distorting faith in Jesus and his loving Father who sent his Son for the salvation of the world.The LCWR also dissents against the Vatican, a remarkable hubris. We are all dependent on the guidance of the Magisterium, men and women alike. This is not a gender thing, it is an authority issue. The Protestants headed down this road, and look where it got them; dissent, heresy, schism and dissolution:
The Cardinal spoke of this issue in reference to letters the CDF received from “Leadership Teams” of various Congregations, among them LCWR Officers, protesting the Holy See’s actions regarding the question of women’s ordination and of a correct pastoral approach to ministry to homosexual persons, e.g. letters about New Ways Ministry’s conferences.Even Jesus does not find reverence in this organization. They think they can move beyond the infinite God and Man:
The Cardinal offered as an example specific passages of Sr. Laurie Brink’s address about some Religious “moving beyond the Church” or even beyond Jesus.We are all subject to error. We all need the voice of Christ through his apostolic teachers (Luke 10:16). Thank God for the guidance of the Church and its compassion that is drawing his flock back to himself.
Devotion to the Holy Face of Jesus
One of my favorite devotions is to the Holy Face of Christ. This devotion was started long ago with several holy persons and Saints devoted to it. Saint Therese of Lisieux (of the Holy Face), Sister Marie of St Peter, Sister Maria Pierina De Micheli, St. Gertrude, St. Mechtilde, and St. Veronica are all major proponents of this devotion.
There is an Association dedicated to the devotion. Adoration of the Holy Face takes several forms.
The Sacred Image of the Shroud of Turin
This Remarkable image has so much depth to it. How someone could have manufactured this image with 14th Century technology is constantly questioned. Many persons believe that it is truly Jesus image, created at his Resurrection. Many Holy face images from the shroud of Turin are all over the Internet. How can a person look at this image and not imagine what Jesus, the Faultless One, went through to save mankind?
Eucharistic Adoration
By adoring the Holy Face in the Eucharist, many promises have been given by Our Lord, including: "I will grant them contrition so perfect that their very sins will be turned into jewels of precious gold." I can speak from experience to say that it is a beautiful experience to have perfect contrition. There are several live Eucharistic Adoration websites as well.
The several promises for devotion to the Holy Face are found all over the Internet, including those approved by Pope Pius XII. This is a venerable traditional devotion that seems lost to many in the Catholic Church in these days.
Remember Our Lord through this devotion. Remember his suffering that was endured to save you from your sins. Remember, His gaze is always upon you calling you back to Him. Become more his image in devotion to the Holy Face.
There is an Association dedicated to the devotion. Adoration of the Holy Face takes several forms.
The Sacred Image of the Shroud of Turin
This Remarkable image has so much depth to it. How someone could have manufactured this image with 14th Century technology is constantly questioned. Many persons believe that it is truly Jesus image, created at his Resurrection. Many Holy face images from the shroud of Turin are all over the Internet. How can a person look at this image and not imagine what Jesus, the Faultless One, went through to save mankind?
Eucharistic Adoration
By adoring the Holy Face in the Eucharist, many promises have been given by Our Lord, including: "I will grant them contrition so perfect that their very sins will be turned into jewels of precious gold." I can speak from experience to say that it is a beautiful experience to have perfect contrition. There are several live Eucharistic Adoration websites as well.
The several promises for devotion to the Holy Face are found all over the Internet, including those approved by Pope Pius XII. This is a venerable traditional devotion that seems lost to many in the Catholic Church in these days.
Remember Our Lord through this devotion. Remember his suffering that was endured to save you from your sins. Remember, His gaze is always upon you calling you back to Him. Become more his image in devotion to the Holy Face.
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
The North Carolina Marriage Amendment
What a great day this is. With all the States passing homosexual marriage laws or civil unions, we have a State that stands for what is right!
For those of you who do not know, North Carolina passed a Marriage Amendment to the State Constitution. The reason they did it is because the Courts can override a law, or declare it unconstitutional. However, when the Constitution has a definition of marriage, there is nothing the Courts can do.
The proponents of the Amendment said it would last twenty years. However, that is twenty years to turn around peoples attitudes and make some good Catholic Converts. It is time for the Holy Spirit to saturate souls and make saints to convert hardened souls.
The Problem
Urban areas are often more heterodox in their beliefs. They are exposed to many alternatives lifestyles and come to normalize such lifestyles as merely alternative and not immoral. This is the "go along, to get along" attitude. It is totally contrary to moral law and the examples of Jesus Christ and John the Baptist. We have to speak up "whether convenient or inconvenient" (2 Tim 4:6).
Certainly, there are appropriate times to speak about the revered truths of God. It is not always the time to preach with fire. However, a gentle and continual reinforcement is always appropriate. Sometimes confrontational and mostly teaching, reminding and reinforcing.
Marriage
Marriage is a sacred Covenant between a man and a woman. Marriage has a fruit, which is children. homosexual marriage, starkly speaking, has no fruit. This points to the design of marriage by God, to bring about a good for Society --- which is children and the love of the couple.
For those of you who do not know, North Carolina passed a Marriage Amendment to the State Constitution. The reason they did it is because the Courts can override a law, or declare it unconstitutional. However, when the Constitution has a definition of marriage, there is nothing the Courts can do.
The proponents of the Amendment said it would last twenty years. However, that is twenty years to turn around peoples attitudes and make some good Catholic Converts. It is time for the Holy Spirit to saturate souls and make saints to convert hardened souls.
The Problem
Urban areas are often more heterodox in their beliefs. They are exposed to many alternatives lifestyles and come to normalize such lifestyles as merely alternative and not immoral. This is the "go along, to get along" attitude. It is totally contrary to moral law and the examples of Jesus Christ and John the Baptist. We have to speak up "whether convenient or inconvenient" (2 Tim 4:6).
Certainly, there are appropriate times to speak about the revered truths of God. It is not always the time to preach with fire. However, a gentle and continual reinforcement is always appropriate. Sometimes confrontational and mostly teaching, reminding and reinforcing.
Marriage
Marriage is a sacred Covenant between a man and a woman. Marriage has a fruit, which is children. homosexual marriage, starkly speaking, has no fruit. This points to the design of marriage by God, to bring about a good for Society --- which is children and the love of the couple.
Thursday, March 1, 2012
Are Those Who Deny Lesbians Communion Now Wrong?
In case you did not know, Father Marcel Garnizo, of the Archdiocese of Washington, denied holy communion to a woman who was cohabitating with another woman. Since lesbianism is grave sin, she was to be denied communion according to Canon Law:
A Disturbing Trend
The bishops seemed to have a habit of throwing priests overboard. With the new norms for clergy abuse, priests have found themselves being left by their bishops to the sharks. Several innocent priests have died due to the stress of trial after trial, even though some have been found innocent. The pendulum has swung too far.
Father Garnizo acted appropriately given a lesbian was presenting herself to communion. Perhaps the bishops should think about their faithful, instead of abandoning them to pander to a manifest grave sinner.
A Proper Balance
Much of this article was written to swing the pendulum back. Throwing priests under the bus is not the standard, neither is siding with them at all times and in all matters. Rather, a due consideration of both the rights of priests and of the faithful. It is a not an either/or situation, but rather a both/and. Both the needs of the accused and of the accuser need to be considered, not an all or nothing approach which fears the possible fall-out of civil authorities:
Can. 915 Those who have been excommunicated or interdicted after the imposition or declaration of the penalty and others obstinately persevering in manifest grave sin are not to be admitted to holy communion.A complaint was lodged against Father Garnizo, which was addressed by Most Rev. Barry Knestout, who threw Father Garnizo under the bus. A complaint that it was at a funeral, which does not change the standard, was lodged by the prospective communicant. The bishop, Most Rev. Barry Knestout, seems to have erred in this matter, embarrassing Father Garnizo. I think Father Garnizo should appeal this decision to the Congregation for the Clergy, Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith and the Holy Father himself if need be.
A Disturbing Trend
The bishops seemed to have a habit of throwing priests overboard. With the new norms for clergy abuse, priests have found themselves being left by their bishops to the sharks. Several innocent priests have died due to the stress of trial after trial, even though some have been found innocent. The pendulum has swung too far.
Father Garnizo acted appropriately given a lesbian was presenting herself to communion. Perhaps the bishops should think about their faithful, instead of abandoning them to pander to a manifest grave sinner.
Much of this article was written to swing the pendulum back. Throwing priests under the bus is not the standard, neither is siding with them at all times and in all matters. Rather, a due consideration of both the rights of priests and of the faithful. It is a not an either/or situation, but rather a both/and. Both the needs of the accused and of the accuser need to be considered, not an all or nothing approach which fears the possible fall-out of civil authorities:
"There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear because fear has to do with punishment, and so one who fears is not yet perfect in love" (1 John 4:18).
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
The Bishops Are Democrats?
One has to wonder about the American Bishops. They were misinformed or hoodwinked by one nun, Sister Carol Keehan , who according to reports, assured them that Obama would not force contraception or abortion on them. Now, through services and medication, he as done both.
Doctors and Nurses
This is no surprise. Obama overturned previous conscience exemptions, which effected all healthcare providers, including doctors and nurses. Nurses were put in a position where they are supposed to assist in abortions, which they are now suing to prevent from happening in the future. One nurse was coerced to assist in an abortion and is suing because of that.
Pharmacists
Pharmacists were forced to make a choice about their jobs. During the Bush Administration, they were given a conscience exemption, which they did not have to proscribe contraceptives. Now, they may loose their jobs.
The Future
There is an old saw in Psychology, "the best predictor of future behavior is past behavior." Based on Obama's past performance, this gives us little hope he will change his stance in the future.
I have my own version, watch what a Candidate does, do not believe to what he says. Romney says he is pro-life, but his past support of contraceptives and abortion in Massachusetts, show a different story. He talks a good game, however, many in business do not mind lying it is gets them what they want, power. We have two candidates who has consistently stood for life. Neither of them is Romney.
Mormons have the dogma doctrinal evolution, which means their doctrine can change. Such is the case with polygamy. I guess they think God is not all-knowing and therefore cannot get it correct this first time, every time.
Romney, who is a Mormon bishop, believes his so-called Church's doctrine. I wonder if his policies will evolve as well. Wait, he used the term evolve regarding his abortion stance. Hmm.
I wonder, if we have a Romney presidency, will he try to force polygamy on others? Will he relativize our moral framework, which is already quickly eroding?
The Bishops
Are they Democrats? Is they why they were so willing to believe Sister Carol Keehan. Are they members of the Old Democract's club? Why are they so willing to believe Sister Keehan, and unwilling to look at Obama's past behavior as a predictor? Or are they just poor judges of people?
"Be as clever as serpents, yet as innocent as doves" (Matt 10:16).
Where is the cleverness? Perhaps it is time for the laity to step and do our mission, as well. We need to inform the bishops of the real deception that is going on in Society and the bounds that the power-hungry and Church-hating will go to in order to win an election. The bishops seem clueless. Maybe it is time for them to be informed by those who are given a mission of ordering the World to the Gospel:
"It is not permissible for anyone to remain idle...But in particular the lay faithful are called to restore to creation all its original value. In ordering creation to the authentic well-being of humanity in an activity governed by the life of grace, they share in the exercise of the power with which the Risen Christ draws all things to himself and subjects them along with himself to the Father, so that God might be everything to everyone" (Christfidelis Laici, 3, 14).
We need to tell the bishops how the World functions, how those who hunger for power have no limits to their deception and how we need to be clever as serpents, with a proven liar and religious persecutor named Barrack Obama. Maybe next time, with our input and import, they will be ahead of the game.
Doctors and Nurses
This is no surprise. Obama overturned previous conscience exemptions, which effected all healthcare providers, including doctors and nurses. Nurses were put in a position where they are supposed to assist in abortions, which they are now suing to prevent from happening in the future. One nurse was coerced to assist in an abortion and is suing because of that.
Pharmacists
Pharmacists were forced to make a choice about their jobs. During the Bush Administration, they were given a conscience exemption, which they did not have to proscribe contraceptives. Now, they may loose their jobs.
The Future
There is an old saw in Psychology, "the best predictor of future behavior is past behavior." Based on Obama's past performance, this gives us little hope he will change his stance in the future.
I have my own version, watch what a Candidate does, do not believe to what he says. Romney says he is pro-life, but his past support of contraceptives and abortion in Massachusetts, show a different story. He talks a good game, however, many in business do not mind lying it is gets them what they want, power. We have two candidates who has consistently stood for life. Neither of them is Romney.
Mormons have the dogma doctrinal evolution, which means their doctrine can change. Such is the case with polygamy. I guess they think God is not all-knowing and therefore cannot get it correct this first time, every time.
Romney, who is a Mormon bishop, believes his so-called Church's doctrine. I wonder if his policies will evolve as well. Wait, he used the term evolve regarding his abortion stance. Hmm.
I wonder, if we have a Romney presidency, will he try to force polygamy on others? Will he relativize our moral framework, which is already quickly eroding?
The Bishops
Are they Democrats? Is they why they were so willing to believe Sister Carol Keehan. Are they members of the Old Democract's club? Why are they so willing to believe Sister Keehan, and unwilling to look at Obama's past behavior as a predictor? Or are they just poor judges of people?
"Be as clever as serpents, yet as innocent as doves" (Matt 10:16).
Where is the cleverness? Perhaps it is time for the laity to step and do our mission, as well. We need to inform the bishops of the real deception that is going on in Society and the bounds that the power-hungry and Church-hating will go to in order to win an election. The bishops seem clueless. Maybe it is time for them to be informed by those who are given a mission of ordering the World to the Gospel:
"It is not permissible for anyone to remain idle...But in particular the lay faithful are called to restore to creation all its original value. In ordering creation to the authentic well-being of humanity in an activity governed by the life of grace, they share in the exercise of the power with which the Risen Christ draws all things to himself and subjects them along with himself to the Father, so that God might be everything to everyone" (Christfidelis Laici, 3, 14).
We need to tell the bishops how the World functions, how those who hunger for power have no limits to their deception and how we need to be clever as serpents, with a proven liar and religious persecutor named Barrack Obama. Maybe next time, with our input and import, they will be ahead of the game.
Friday, January 27, 2012
The Authority of Papal Congregations
This is a heady posting. It delves into the Ordinary Magisterium, which is the day to day teaching of the Church. The Ordinary Magisterium has possibly fallible teachings which are also possibly infallible. In short, we do not know their nature unless we do an exhaustive theological survey, the college of bishops and the pope, or the pope alone states so, possibly by his "manner of speaking" (Lumen Gentium, 25, 1).
There are two general levels of teaching:
This article is not intended to be exhaustive, but to speak in general terms. I will try to boil these concepts to some main points.
Main Points
A great article on the authority of Ordinary Magisterial Teachings (possibly fallible) including Papal Congregations is found here. In it you will find a quote of what Blessed Pope Pius the IX, a great pope according to many accounts and his encyclicals, said about Papal congregations in an apostolic letter, which I have extended below:
This seems to suggest that the teachings of Congregations belong to the Ordinary Magisterium, which is still binding on Catholics in various degrees. This is probably because they have the consent of the pope to engage in their activities, it is from him that they derive their authority.
Correction
The article above, states that such teachings are not infallible, however, that is an incorrect statement. Just because a teaching is not infallibly defined or proposed does not mean it is not infallible, just that it has not been infallibly proposed, spoken or defined. We should reserve judgement on whether it is infallible or not, because the pope could later state it is so, or a theological survey and statement by the pope could reveal it is.
The Bottom Line
We are to treat Congregational Documents (especially from the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith) as being part of the Ordinary Magisterium, which requires at least religious assent. You cannot marginalize this teaching because it does not agree with your training or opinion.
Please leave comments, requests for articles, or questions below!
There are two general levels of teaching:
- Infallible Magisterium: These are infallible teachings and contain two general levels, the Universal Ordinary Magisterium (the pope and bishops throughout the world teaching together) and the Extraordinary Magisterium (Church Councils, Papal Definitions).
- Ordinary Magisterium: These are day to day teachings, which have the possibility of being infallible, however, could be fallible (contain error).
This article is not intended to be exhaustive, but to speak in general terms. I will try to boil these concepts to some main points.
Main Points
A great article on the authority of Ordinary Magisterial Teachings (possibly fallible) including Papal Congregations is found here. In it you will find a quote of what Blessed Pope Pius the IX, a great pope according to many accounts and his encyclicals, said about Papal congregations in an apostolic letter, which I have extended below:
"it is not sufficient for learned Catholics to accept and revere the aforesaid dogmas of the Church...it is also necessary to subject themselves to the decisions pertaining to doctrine which are issued by the Pontifical congregations..." (Pius IX, Tuas Libenter, Enchiridion Symbolorum).It is assumed by some that Pontifical Congregations are to be ignored. However, Pius IX has explicitly taught otherwise, as quoted above. Pius the IX also goes on to speak of theological truths being binding (called sense of the faithful), but I will not address that here.
This seems to suggest that the teachings of Congregations belong to the Ordinary Magisterium, which is still binding on Catholics in various degrees. This is probably because they have the consent of the pope to engage in their activities, it is from him that they derive their authority.
Correction
The article above, states that such teachings are not infallible, however, that is an incorrect statement. Just because a teaching is not infallibly defined or proposed does not mean it is not infallible, just that it has not been infallibly proposed, spoken or defined. We should reserve judgement on whether it is infallible or not, because the pope could later state it is so, or a theological survey and statement by the pope could reveal it is.
The Bottom Line
We are to treat Congregational Documents (especially from the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith) as being part of the Ordinary Magisterium, which requires at least religious assent. You cannot marginalize this teaching because it does not agree with your training or opinion.
Please leave comments, requests for articles, or questions below!
Saturday, January 21, 2012
Journalistic Responsibility
For those of you who do not know, John King confronted Newt Gingrich during the January 19th debate in South Carolina about what his former wife said about an "open marriage." John is a divorced man, according to reports, with a hostile relationship with his ex-wife. Perhaps we should trot out his ex-wife and see what she has to say?
I do not point this out the eviscerate John King, but to point out Journalistic responsibility according to John Paul II:
Apart from an employment contract, all a human resources professional is supposed to care about is: "Are you qualified for the position to which you are applying?" Nothing else. Not your religion, race, marital status, hateful comments by your ex-wife or anything else. The Presidential Race is a big job interview.
Maybe our criteria, being a people of repentance, should be the Sacrament of Reconciliation and attempts to live a holy life. Too often, our Jerry Springer culture takes over and we forget the image of God in our fellow human beings. Let us pray for everyone, and give them the respect they are due, even to Barrack Obama, or a repentant candidate who is doing the best he can:
I do not point this out the eviscerate John King, but to point out Journalistic responsibility according to John Paul II:
"In the communications media the Church finds a precious aid for spreading the Gospel and religious values, for promoting dialogue, ecumenical and inter-religious cooperation, and also for defending those solid principles which are indispensable for building a society which respects the dignity of the human person and is attentive to the common good" (John Paul II, The Rapid Development of Those Responsible for Social Communications).I am a Certified Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) and have done job interviews regularly. One thing we do not ask is someone's marital status. In fact, this is illegal discrimination according to law. I do not care about what a candidates ex-wives say. Many divorcees are bitter about the divorce. We accept that.
Apart from an employment contract, all a human resources professional is supposed to care about is: "Are you qualified for the position to which you are applying?" Nothing else. Not your religion, race, marital status, hateful comments by your ex-wife or anything else. The Presidential Race is a big job interview.
Maybe our criteria, being a people of repentance, should be the Sacrament of Reconciliation and attempts to live a holy life. Too often, our Jerry Springer culture takes over and we forget the image of God in our fellow human beings. Let us pray for everyone, and give them the respect they are due, even to Barrack Obama, or a repentant candidate who is doing the best he can:
Thus sin makes men accomplices of one another and causes concupiscence, violence, and injustice to reign among them. Sins give rise to social situations and institutions that are contrary to the divine goodness. "Structures of sin" are the expression and effect of personal sins. They lead their victims to do evil in their turn. In an analogous sense, they constitute a "social sin" (Catechism of the Catholic Church, #1869).However, there is hope:
The redemption won by Christ consists in this, that he came "to give his life as a ransom for many" (Mt 20:28), that is, he "loved his own to the end" (Jn 13:1), so that they might be "ransomed from the futile ways inherited from their fathers" (1 Pt 1:18). (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 622)Let us choose the best candidate for the job, not give credence to salacious comments by a possibly embittered ex-wife. May Christ Reign!
Saturday, January 7, 2012
Persecution By Homosexuals
If you did not know Cardinal Francis George apologized for saying that homosexuals might act like KKK members if the Catholic Church had too public an image during a Gay Parade.
This is an example of abandoning your flock. Catholics need to be told the truth about the homosexual agenda, so they can fight back against it. Homosexuals have attacked a church in San Francisco, banging on the doors. This was popularized by many Christian commentators including Dr. James Dobson of Focus on the Family.
Abandoning the Flock
This seems to be a case of an archbishop abandoning the flock. Catholics need to hear the unvarnished truth about what homosexuals are doing in Society. They are a very aggressive force that does not mind violating Church property rights and throwing glitter all over people. Keep in mind, Gingrich has no idea what is in that glitter. Letters have contained Anthrax and Gingrich has no idea what is being thrown over him.
Gay Adoptions
Obama has been so aggressive with his gay adoption policy, that he has forced Catholic Adoption agencies to shut their doors due their funds being cut off. The homosexual marriages in New York State and New Hampshire have caused backlashes which has created movements to overturn those laws.
Stand Firm
Catholic's need firm leaders. Who in every thought, word and deed, stand for the truth, like Cardinal Timothy Dolan, a leader who unabashedly stands for the truth, if with a bit of grace.
Please leaders, do not abandon the truth and in doing so abandon your flock. Stand firm and resolute. If the Homosexual Movement has acted like terrorists, let it be so. If they have attacked Catholics, say it is so. Do not let the flock suffer for the wolves.
This is an example of abandoning your flock. Catholics need to be told the truth about the homosexual agenda, so they can fight back against it. Homosexuals have attacked a church in San Francisco, banging on the doors. This was popularized by many Christian commentators including Dr. James Dobson of Focus on the Family.
Abandoning the Flock
This seems to be a case of an archbishop abandoning the flock. Catholics need to hear the unvarnished truth about what homosexuals are doing in Society. They are a very aggressive force that does not mind violating Church property rights and throwing glitter all over people. Keep in mind, Gingrich has no idea what is in that glitter. Letters have contained Anthrax and Gingrich has no idea what is being thrown over him.
Gay Adoptions
Obama has been so aggressive with his gay adoption policy, that he has forced Catholic Adoption agencies to shut their doors due their funds being cut off. The homosexual marriages in New York State and New Hampshire have caused backlashes which has created movements to overturn those laws.
Stand Firm
Catholic's need firm leaders. Who in every thought, word and deed, stand for the truth, like Cardinal Timothy Dolan, a leader who unabashedly stands for the truth, if with a bit of grace.
Please leaders, do not abandon the truth and in doing so abandon your flock. Stand firm and resolute. If the Homosexual Movement has acted like terrorists, let it be so. If they have attacked Catholics, say it is so. Do not let the flock suffer for the wolves.
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