In case you couldn't get enough...

I know not everybody likes the Muppets. Fair enough. But I just couldn't stop myself from sharing this:


OH MY GOSH!!! I have been giggling myself silly about this. Thank God that at some point in the History of America we used to have shows like this were the modern vices of our day never really seemed to raise their ugly heads (or at least too often). I remember enjoying the Muppet show so much as a little kid. Please God may we one day soon return to such creative and hilariously silly shows for the good of our society and our families.

***UPDATE: I can't help it, I promise that I will consider not doing another Muppet Show post, but I will need some feedback either way from you all. I hope you enjoy it either way!

In these economic times...

With so much bad news in our economic situation, one must not think that the world is coming to an end. A business cycle, possibly, but our world definitely not... yet. Only Jesus, Our Lord, will come to end this world of sin. But in the meantime, this too shall pass. The Church will persevere even through this.

I am struck by the fact that when the depression hit, one would think things had gotten bad, but do you realize it was during the depression that Swing Dancing was born? That great American Tradition that carries forward to this day. In fact, I just went Swing Dancing on Sunday at the Mercury Cafe, here in Denver (on 22nd and California downtown). It is clear that times are bad, economically, but for those of us whose first concern is not treasure in this world, as Jesus recommends to us, then we may still find joy!


Take for example, this little ditty:


For the younger folks, you might enjoy this one:


Yes. I have turned to the muppet Beaker for levity in this midst of our economic times. But hey! ALL THINGS FOR THE GLORY OF GOD... even the Muppets.

Especially since, if you don't like Beaker, there is always Gonzo:


Ok... so you don't like Beaker, and singing chickens are just silly... I can appreciate that, thus for something at the heart of all Americans:

What do you remember?

I have recently reconnected over the internet with my 1st grade teacher! What a blessing it is to have met her again, and to talk with her who was "mythically," for me anyway, the paradigm of all beloved teachers.

As I began to think about it, I started thinking about my earliest days that I remember on this planet earth. Remember these shows, I barely do?










Just wondered...

Remember, these are supposed to be "the good guys!"

One of the parents here at St. Jude on Wednesday night asked me to repost my article about Der Krumpus. Who you may ask?

Well, you probably are aware that Santa Claus has become a syrupy sweet icon of Christmas in our modern American Society (see picture above). It is important to know that this is a, excuse the term, "bastardization" of who Santa Claus really was.

In fact, we celebrate the Feast of St. Nicholas this Saturday, and the story of St. Nicholas is far more real and far more human and far more focused on Christ. St. Nicholas, of course, was a Bishop who lived in Myra in the 4th century. His relics are now located in Bari, so he is sometimes referred to as St. Nicholas of Bari. It is the same guy. He was a man filled with passion for the Lord Jesus Christ, and because of this he has become a model of charity and care for others.

Nevertheless, other cultures have not taken to, as some would say, the "sickening-sweet-candy-cane-and-button-nose" take on the 4th Century Bishop that we have in America. Others are a little more realisitic with what it means to celebrate Christmas. Take the Austrians for example...

At the risk of boring those of you who may not have seen this post last year, I hope you enjoy this Austrian Tradition that to our eyes and ears may seem a bit odd - but as you can imagine this is all in good fun for Austrian families... somehow...

Here is the link to my December 2007 posting.

If you are in, you get it...

As I have mentioned before, I am teaching at the Catholic Biblical School of the Archdiocese of Denver, but only part-time. I was preparing my lecture for tomorrow and came across this quote by St. Ambrose of Milan. I thought it was quite beautiful to think about the Sacred Scripture where Jesus was admonishing his disciples to be attentive to their own life of faith. He then speaks of "two women grinding together [I am not sure he is referring to Snowboarding or skateboarding, if you are wondering!]; one will be taken and the other left." Then the Gospel goes on saying, "And [the disciples] said to him, "Where, Lord?" He said to them, "Where the body is, there the eagles will be gathered together." At first I wondered about whether this was referring to the fact that the Eagle at one point symbolized Rome, but it turns out that apparently, that became the case after the time of Jesus! So what could it mean? Well, I found this from St. Ambrose of Milan:

Let us first speculate what the eagles are, so we may determine what the body is. Those souls of the righteous are compared with eagles, because they seek the heights, leave the depths behind, and reportedly reach great age. If we understood about the eagles, we cannot doubt concerning the body, particularly if we remember that Joseph received the body of Christ from Pilate. Does it not seem to you that the eagles around the body are Mary of Cleopas, Mary Magdalene, Mary, the Mother of the Lord and the assembly of the apostles around the Lord's tomb?

I may not know you, but if you have a propensity to the Revelation of Jesus Christ as the Son of God, then I hope you find that as beautiful as I do. If not, perhaps this further quote of St. Ambrose will do it for you:

He says concering this body, 'My flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed.' Around this body, eagles fly spiritual wings. Around the body, eagles believe that Jesus has come in the flesh, because every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is of God. Where faith is, there is the sacrament and the dwelling place of holiness. The body is also the Church, in which we are renewed in the spirit through the grace of baptism, and the frailities of old age are restored for ages of new life.

I don't know about you, dear reader, but I love the wisdom of the saints. They just put things so beautifully in their wisdom cultivated from their love for Jesus Christ, the only Son of God!

If only you knew him...

then you can appreciate the full beauty of this video:


Nevertheless, I think it shows the beauty of the papacy on so many different levels. This is no greater hope than the Vicar of Christ to unite humanity, if humanity can see that there is someone outside themselves who can bring peace into their life - name who the bible calls "The Prince of Peace." It is so worth every penny to make a pilgrimmage to Rome, if you are a Catholic, to see the Successor of St. Peter.

This comes to us from a Vatican distributor who is now promoting a 5 DVD disc set that follows the life of Pope John Paul II.

So... if anyone was looking for a Christmas gift for me... just kidding. Nevertheless, I would love to see this as I am sure it covers so many things that the world will never hear about since the world seems as if it could care less about the man who was instrumental in bringing down Communist Russia. Let us hope history will give Pope John Paul II his just place.

How serious will it be?

I know some people have difficulty with my previous post from the singer in Canada. Nevertheless, I think the issue should be kept at the forefront. ANd it appears the Major Pentitentiary of the Church is not opposed. This article came out today and it is one worth considering. Nevertheless, I think it is important to see just where President Obama will place his efforts. One wonders as one hears about more Clinton appointees being appointed to President Obama's cabinent whether he will be as radical as he made himself out to be.

Nevertheless, as posted before, I think one must take President-elect Obama's speech to Planned Parenthood seriously, until he proves it otherwise.

Let us hope that cooler heads prevail on the FOCA issue, for life should be defended, and some good men actually know and understand that.

Pray for our country...please...

I have never heard of this guy, but someone sent this to me on Facebook. I hope you can watch this with an objective eye and we might call a spade a spade, before we go the way of Germany in 1933, with regards to the devaluing of human life:


The Hour of Decision from Mark Mallett on Vimeo.

Let us hope he responds positively...

This was published today:

Dear President-elect Obama,

I write to you, in my capacity as President of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, to express our congratulations on your historic election as President of the United States. The people of our country have entrusted you with a great responsibility. As Catholic Bishops, we offer our prayers that God give you strength and wisdom to meet the coming challenges.

Our country is confronting many uncertainties. We pray that you will use the powers of your office to meet them with a special concern to defend the most vulnerable among us and heal the divisions in our country and our world. We stand ready to work with you in defense and support of the life and dignity of every human person.

May God bless you and Vice President-elect Biden as you prepare to assume your duties in service to our country and its citizens.

Sincerely yours,

Francis Cardinal George, OMI
Archbishop of Chicago
President

Let us hope that President-elect Obama listens to our shepherds, though one wonders what his position is, as a Protestant, regarding the Catholic Church.

Let us hope he is not being prophetic!

Does anybody want to discuss what this man is speaking about? Could it be that it is worth something we should be looking at, as opposed to what the two-party system has pushed forward as worthy of discussion?



I don't know... but to me it sounds like something we Catholics should be concerned about, as well as all of us Americans, as those who think about what might be best for our country.

I couldn't agree more...

I have been reading up at InsideCatholic.com, not a bad little website - and my one of my college roommates posts as a blogger. But this article came to my attention by Fr. Robert Johansen. I would encourage you to read it and digest it, and comment here... if you like.

If you will excuse me Mr. Buchanan...

I have always liked some of the thoughts of Patrick J. Buchanan, though I have heard some who find him "ridiculous" in various ways - as I think I posted before, there are some who find him anti-semitic. Nevertheless, there are some thoughts that are worth discussing of Mr. Buchanan. Well, a friend pointed this out to me on Mr. Buchanan's website. I have been quoting this lately, and I am glad to have found the Youtube video for it. If you will excuse me Mr. Buchanan, I am going to post this video as seen on his website, because I think it is interestingly appropriate for how many people are feeling (though this, again, may not be appropriate for children):



The clip comes from the movie "Network," which is quite an interesting movie. While there is some sexuality, and quite a lot of bad language (as I remember it), there is however an interesting prophetic quality to the movie where the TV network will do whatever it can for ratings - including creating news... can you think of a time in history when this might have happened? I just find it interesting that is all.

If you have a spare hour...

This is something worth watching about...

False promises and "We The People"...


...wasting our tax dollars...


...Government saving us from Nature...


...the "Farce of Campaign finance"...

...and farm subsidies...


...and who is really behind the Government?


Please comment on Mr. Stossel's presentation, I would really be interested to hear what everybody has to say on this.

Heh heh...

For those who remember the good ole days... (WARNING: there is one word bleeped out! Please be aware for the kids!)...

True.

This from "The Southern Avenger" whom I have found to bring forth wisdom on other occasions, such as pointing out the uniqueness and significance of Ron Paul in the Republican primaries:

What to make of it...?

There are many positions being put forward in this election, neither of the two major parties - what some have termed the "duopoly" - necessarily encompass the Catholic Church's teachings and, hopefully, the Faith in them which all of us Catholics hold.

Nevertheless, many other positions remain beyond the two party system - one of the reasons I continue to advocate that as Catholics we should be abreast of all parties and their positions to come to a more informed decision for whom to vote.

However, a friend of mine sent me this article: On Global Democracy. I do not disagree for the most part with the explained problems of American Democracy, as such. I do take issue with the anti-semitic, anti-protestant and anti-jewish position found towards the end in only one paragraph. I do not think that exclusion from the society is the answer for anyone.

Nevertheless, it is historically clear that Freemasonry in particular has had its hands, since its inception, in the destruction of the Catholic influence in the world and the removal of Christ as our Societal King. The question is: are we aware of Christ as our King? Is he? Do we understand the joy, the peace, the eternal life and the cross that He invites us to live in our lives? This is the most immediate question that should be answered BEFOREwe go to vote this election! For from this reality comes every other position we will hold. Moreover, it should inform and be the basis of our position on any other issue that exists and is to be voted on. We CAN NOT allow ourselves to be duped into the two-party duopoly and merely vote because of partisanship (in spite of my affinity for Rush Limbaugh's radio show). We must vote, as Archbishop Chaput notes, with our Catholic Faith realizing "the Catholic Faith is always personal, but never private."

WOW! Perhaps, we are still living in a democratic republic..

So it appears that C-span will be presenting a debate with all six of the Presidential Candidates on Sunday. If we are going to be educated on all the positions of every potential candidate, then I would highly encourage everyone to watch this debate. The Link to the story I was sent is here below:

http://www.freeandequal.org/events.php?id=7

Aren't they supposed to investigate...?

This video was posted over at MSNBC, though it comes from the History Channel. I have actually had the History Channel send me a pack of videos that were, as their telemarketer told me, "great for RCIA classes." However, as I wrote them in a letter, once I had watched their content, if I were to show those videos to aspiring Catholics, then both them and I would soon be leaving the Catholic Church if we believed what they had presented. But what I wish is that these people who are putting together these videos about Catholic things would at least do some research about what they are talking about.

Again, as has been my experience, the guy in this video above begins by saying the people "worship" Saint Gennaro. Any numbskull could go to the Catechism of the Catholic Church and find the direct teaching that we do not worship the Saints as people, whether we Worship God alone, who seeks to work in every human being:

By canonizing some of the faithful, i.e., by solemnly proclaiming that they practiced heroic virtue and lived in fidelity to God's grace, the Church recognizes the power of the Spirit of holiness within her and sustains the hope of believers by proposing the saints to them as models and intercessors. "The saints have always been the source and origin of renewal in the most difficult moments in the Church's history." Indeed, "holiness is the hidden source and infallible measure of her apostolic activity and missionary zeal." (CCC #828)

What I can't understand is that people like this are paid to be investigative journalists, to do research and report the truth, yet they rely on a faulty understanding of what actually happens in the Catholic Church! These are the same type of people we are supposed to believe and trust to explain to us the candidates and their stances on the issues? Good luck America!

Perhaps, its not as bad as we think...

Check out this article about a recent poll taken by the Knights of Columbus. Perhaps we Catholics are becoming more united than the media would have us believe, 106 year old nuns notwithstanding...

What do you make of this?

Watch CBS Videos Online

Its unfortunate that the nun in this video is shown to be a Catholic. At 106 she is doing a great service to our country by voting and excercising her right to vote, however, what she apparently is not aware of is that she is supporting a man who would have many infants, our pre-born human brothers and sisters, murdered in their mother's womb, and if they happen to survive an attempted murder (aka a botched abortion), then Sen. Obama would have that child murdered outside the womb to protect the "right to choose" to murder an innocent child. Moreover, she is supporting the ticket that also has a vice-presidential candidate who would distort St. Thomas Aquinas in order forward his political career.

Mind you, John Mccain apparently is also a big supporter of the UN that continues to propagate abortions throughout the world.

The unfortunate thing is that many people will see this Nun's witness and think it is fine for Catholics to vote for one who propagates socialist redistribution of wealth, which is directly against the Encyclical Quadregismo Anno, and one who holds view decidedly anti-life. Perhaps, the so-called "mainstreme news media" in Rome is also promoting Sen. Obama by not explaining his positions just as they are not here in America. What is your thought?

Do you know what it all means?

So here is something a friend sent me:



If you are not familiar with the idea of the New World Order, it may be useful to Google "New World Order" since things are afoot in our country, which no one seems to be able to explain. The notion of a one world government is nothing new, but one that many are not too familiar with. In fact, some people, known as conspiracy theorists actually point to the Catholic Church, which causes some confusion. The Church does not promote any conspiracy, and in fact, as recent as this last year, when the Holy Father visited the UN he called for the sovereignty of states to be guarded, naming it the "the responsibility to protect."

I pray that our country will not be subjected to a depression, but it sure sounds it is a possibility. I am not an economist, but I have been trying to learn about this stuff. This, in fact, was one of the reasons I have leaned more to Dr. Ron Paul, who is also an accomplished Economist. For some reason no one listened to him, but he has been appearing more frequently on many shows.

May God bless America...

YOU GOTTA SEE THIS!

It appears a new project has begun, which seems to be quite good. I WILL be buying this for the parish, even if it must wait until next year. I would encourage all people of good will to donate and promote this, why? Not because you are being forced into becoming Catholic, though I think you should consider becoming Catholic, but more importantly the Truth must be told. For so long, as with the present election in our country, half-truths and deceptions are being promoted as "how or why it happened." It is important that this priest has the opportunity to explain the Catholic Faith from the Church's own history and from her own historical addition. Consider Fr. Barron's video that promotes his "Catholicism Project":

It is important for all of us, believers and those who want to know the truth, to allow this story to be told. If you can't provide money, then please provide prayers, for those who are so inclined to such things.

After having the chance to explore Fr. Barron's website, I found it quite moving his sincerity and his command of understanding various things from the perspective of the Church. Especially his response to the comedian, Bill Maher, who has recently put out a new film called "Religulous." We need more clergy, and even more lay people, to comprehend the reality of the Kingdom of Heaven that Jesus proclaimed so long ago, but which is present today here and now.

In fact, here is Fr. Barron's refute of the attacks of Mr. Maher:


Judge for yourself how good would his series "The Catholicism Project" be.

The Last Acceptable Prejudice

There are so many things about which the world is willing to be politically correct. But, big surprise, this doesn't include the Holy Catholic Church. Thank you to Newsbusters.com who posted this interesting article. I hope every Catholic is moved to pray for those who desecrate our Blessed Lord in the most Holy Sacrament of the altar.

Proud to be a Baron Alumnus!

I love my Franciscan University Education! I had someone here at the parish tell me the first week I was here that this person was worried about "how conservative Franciscan University is becoming." The first problem with that is that one ought not to apply political monikers when we are talking about being a disciple of Jesus Christ. One can hold more liberal or conservative views on certain issues, but one ought to be substantially concerned with living for Christ our King.

Living for Christ our King. This is something we have so few people doing nowadays. Nevertheless, I am proud of my fellow Franciscan students who recently attended a rally put together by three "apparent" nuns and a few priests who hold that abortion is not a problem and one should therefore be able to vote for Obama, regardless of his position on Abortion. Why would they hold this? Well they cite Nicholas Cafardi who is the second Catholic legal scholar to endorse Sen. Obama. Who among other things thinks that our Republic is dead, insofar as those who believe abortion is wrong have lost the battle.

You may read about this happening on the Inside Catholic website here.

You can read about Mr. Cafardi's position from the National Catholic Distorter, er, Reporter. Here at this page.

What is most sad about this, perhaps, is that Mr. Cafardi and these nuns miss the point that if you don't agree with Mccain (or Bush), then Mr. Obama is not the only option for their vote. Again, I would offer to you, dear reader, that as Catholics we should not limit ourselves to the two-party duopoly, but if we are to truly effect change for Christ's Kingdom, then we should consider all the options for our vote. See the links below to some of the other parties being blacklisted by the Media.

As for me, I hope my Franciscan University Barons are doing well this year in sports, but more importantly I pray that the University continues its mission to form young people to love the Catholic Faith as a gift, and not as something that we can pick and choose elements of to best suit our exaltation of our self and our own opinions.

Kind of cute...

It is interesting that St. Paul speaks about not owing anything to any man. In our modern economic climate I thought this was kind of cute to understanding one interpretation of what is going on in with the curren market situation:



It is always good that we are informed about various perspectives, I would say.

This above refers to Mises.org at the end: I checked it out and here is a little gem that gave me a chuckle, in the way only the British can do, as I hope it will for you:

Well, at least we know this is true...

In a few days, beginning on Oct. 5th, Holy Mother Church will convoke her shepherds in Rome for a Synod on the Holy Scriptures entitled: “The Word of God in the Life and Mission of the Church.” Synods are a way for the bishops to gather together in order that they might enter deeper into discussions and explanations of various elements of Catholic life. This was one of the innovations that came from Vatican II to enhance the understanding and communication amongst the bishops.

To assist us lay people a new website has been launched to keep us up to date on what is happening there in Rome. The website may be found here. But here is the welcome video which actually sounds kind of exciting - in a history is about to be made kind of way.



I hope that you will find an occasion or two to check out what is taking place that will continue to shape the Church on her earthly pilgrimmage.

Could it be true...

I know that not everybody likes Pat Buchanan. Some people say he is flat out racist or even anti-semitic. I am unsure about that, but I do know he does make a few good points beyond those charges. Take for example this recent article in which he asks whether the Republican party is actually over. One wonders about whether all the hype around Sarah Palin will be for naught if he is also correct about this position.

For us who are of a Catholic worldview, I think these should be things to consider when we place our votes in the fall. I was really struck by the video I posted earlier from CatholicVote.com that it only showed the two parties. The more I have been thinking about that the more I have been wondering how inconsistent is the message? If we are supposed to use our Catholic conscience to vote, then how can we have informed consent if we aren't even willing to consider the other parties? We Catholics must excercise our right to vote in this country. We are by some estimations as much as 1/4 of the electorate!!! THAT IS INCREDIBLY STAGGERING! Sure, many people would follow Biden into his errors that allowing the legal murder of an unborn child is peachy keen, but still the fact that if we were actually taught and were docile to being conformed to Christ then we would not value choice over life, just as Pontius Pilate did.

Pontius Pilate, as I understand it, according to Sacred Tradition is held to actually have become a saint, because he realized what he had done all to late! I wonder if some won't experience the same deception now, and, please God may they have a conversion later if that is the case. Nevertheless, I think if we are to make an informed decision then we ought to research all the parties and find those with whom we agree.

There are four that are most prevalent apparently:

The Libertarians
The Green Party
The Constitution Party
and independant Ralph Nader.

As this article points out, these parties have an invaluable role to play in our politics, even if you won't vote for one, at least consider their ideas that each of us may make an informed choice, and more importantly for Catholics, our conscience can vote in union with our Catholic Faith.

What it takes to be a Catholic man...

Recently, apparently, there was a pro-abortion (or more specifically pro-death) march in Argentina. Apparently the course of the march went right by the Cathedral. What appears to be a very small group of men and women stood up to the crowd and protected the Cathedral by ... praying the Rosary. This video is incredible. It speaks volume about where we are today as a world. Please God may I have the strength to stand up for life, for Christ, and for the Church when the time comes... as it appears it may possibly be coming... At any rate reflect on the power of the witness of these young men standing up for Christ, for the Church and for life in the face of this onslaught:


UPDATE: In preparing for my lecture on Mt 11-18, I found this quote by Pope St. Gregory the Great and it speaks to the heart of what I hope for:

"What can we men [do], fully-grown, but weak, who are overcome by anger, inflated by pride, disquieted by ambition, corrupted by pleasure, when we see young women sent to the sword [or to an abortion!] to the Kingdom of Heaven? We may not be able to attain the kingdom through battle and persecution, but let us be ashamed, that we are unwilling to follow God even in times of peace. At present God is not saying to any of us, "Die for me" [yet!], but just put to death the unlawful desires within you! Would we give our bodies for the Lord in time of war, when we are not willing to subdue their desires in time of peace?" Yes, I did ad those things in brackets... so sue me, already!

Spoken like a true American...

I know he is not Catholic,and therefore has some positions that I may still disagree with politically (as I apply my faith to my political positions), but Ron Paul continues to promote a vital element of our Republic. If he were a practicing Catholic, I would at least know a few more things about him than the questions that still remain about certain issues. Nevertheless, like Mike Gravel, he is at least honest. COnsider his message given a few days ago at a press conference on Sept. 10th:



If you are pro-choice, then check out all the other substantial parties so that you can truly make an informed choice, instead of just following the herd for Obama. If you are pro-life then DEFINITELY check out other parties (see Mccain's position on embryonic stem cell research below!)

I for one am sick of the hijacking of our political process.

Consider this guy's position:



After all, as Laura Ingraham is so want to say, "POWER TO THE PEOPLE!" Only we have the ability to change things, not two party bred candidates that represent the media pronounced "mainstream" thinking.

You have to love an honest man...

If you have never heard of Former Sen. Mike Gravel, then you have missed out. He was quite a show in the Democrat Primaries. He definitely is a man who speaks his mind, regardless of the consequences. I think it is interesting to hear his take on the Palin interception of public discourse in America:



Again, I find myself being more moved by a third party. And I think it is high time that each of us truly understand our candidates and vote our conscience.

Nevertheless, too bad the distributists don't have a ticket, I just might be more moved there...

You know you saw it coming...

How can a person of faith, knowing the reality of all I just said about Barack Obama, reconcile voting for John Mccain when he IS a "Maverick" apparently. He won't even follow the Republican Party Platform. Sucka. How in the world am I supposed to support this guy who is supposedly pro-life, as someone with religiously motivated politically conservative views?

Here it is the news you dreaded but knew was coming. COULD SOMEONE PLEASE TELL ME IT ISN'T TRUE?!

All I know is that I am seriously considering the Constitution Party, though... I have my concerns there too. I still find myself most behind the Ron Paul platform, which I wish someone other candidate truly espoused - and Chuck Brown doesn't seem too far off... for example!

What is happening to America...

If found this video on Youtube (its about 20 min long):



There are many things wrong with this video. But the least of which is that Barack Obama appears to be ok with dealing with the Tragedy of a teenager becoming pregnant, but seems unconcerned with the unborn girls and boys who are being surreptitiously murdered because they have become inconvenient. The Senator appears to believe teaching kids how to have sex properly is the wise thing to do? Yet he fails to pass the common sense test which tells us that doing that is about as wise as giving a teen a firecracker and a match and saying, "Don't light it." A further shocking reality is that Sen. Obama praises Margaret Sanger, who history shows us, was an avowed racist and demonstrably set up planned parenthood to destroy black babies primarily. Take for example this article from the Life Education and Resource Network.

But here are some more truths about Barack Obama's beloved Planned Parenthood:



A friend of mine, who works somewhere in the halls of the great State of Colorado, received this - what appears to be - a newsletter. In it she was directed to this "exemplary" article entitled: "Abortion should be mandatory for pregnant teens."

What have we become in America? I am shocked that we neither know history, and have lost all common sense when certain people would have us become the Nazi state or even the Communist state of China where abortion is meant to be imposed on those over whom "we know better." What happened to freedom and responsibility?

Take for example this statement at the end of the article:

"Congress should act to protect these kids from themselves: Ban teen marriage, mandate teen abortion."

Seriously, mandate that innocent human beings be murdered? Why? Because of inconvenience? Is this not the same arguement made by the Nazi's!!!! IS ANYONE LISTENING OUT THERE!?


"Dude, have you seen my country?"

Vote your Catholic conscience...

I am now reading Archbishop Chaput's new book "Render Unto Caesar." It is a very enlightening book about the need to not separate our faith from our public life. Then, a friend from Rome sent this video below to me and it struck me... primarily because of my Religious Education Scripture verse for the year:

"Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake, I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as refuse, in order that I may gain Christ and be found in him (Phil 3:8-9)"

I hope that you too might watch this video from the "Catholic Vote" website, and take it to heart, dear reader:




After all, we have no rights, unless we have the right to life!

A new milestone for me.

As of today, I have begun teaching for the Catholic Biblical School here in the Archdiocese. I have become an instructor in the 2nd year of that school. This, I think will feed many posts to come here on this blog.

Today, it has struck me as I began to teach on the Gospel of Matthew the idea of God's presence. I think so often we forget or flat out deny, in practice if not in faith, that Jesus is with us. JESUS IS WITH YOU!!! I wonder if we realize what we say three times in the Holy Sacrifice of Mass,
"Priest: The Lord be with you."
"us: And also with you." (which will soon be more properly translated, 'And also with your spirit.')

Of what then should we be afraid? Well, I will tell you. I think what we must be fearful of is the Lord! I don't mean "shaky in the knees" fear but "the kind of fear you had when Mom said don't run through the house with muddy shoes, and you stop halfway through the living room and realize you just came in from the backyard in the rainy and muddy ground" fear. Its the fear of Love, the fear of wounding the lover of your soul. Those of you in a marital relationship or in a dating relationship know exactly what I mean. No one wants to annoy one's beloved. This is precisely how I think the Scripture and thus Holy Mother Church is directing us towards Jesus. When Saint Paul rhetorically and significantly asks, "What will separate us from the Love of God? (Rom 8:35)" I like to think he, with a toungue in cheek attitude, is actually telling us only you and only me! He continues:

"Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written, For your sake we are being killed all the day long; we are regarded as sheep to be slaughtered. No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in CHrist Jesus our Lord."

Let us have confidence in Christ, then. Let no matter seen by God become a moment that causes us to lose faith in the loving plan of God the Father. As one theologian put it, if we follow Jesus Christ, we must know that follow the one who said, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me." But, I would add, the one who also said, "Not my will but yours be done."

I mean, come on!

Infanticide, really? Is this where we are in our country!? You have to read this article. Please post your comments here after you are done!

Thank God for the Truth!

Perhaps you did not see the Democrat party's Vice-Presidential candidate and his take on abortion, conscience and faith. You should watch it:

Unfortunately, Senator Biden has joined the Madame Speaker's error:



She is patently wrong. Every Ancient Catholic written teaching starting with the Didache, chapter 2, (ca. 100AD) is explicit that abortion is evil.

It is important to hear the teaching of Bishop Robert Morlino of Madison, WI, which I would bet reflects our own Archbishop's sentiments on this matter. Take a listen here.

Let know one of us think we are above learning more about or being formed in our Catholic Faith, whether a Senator, Speaker of the House, a housewife, or a lay Catholic, for certainly gathering the fruit of the mysteries of God is something that can be done at any age. But more importantly, savoring the fruit of the Mysteries of our Holy Catholic Faith is far more necessary! Pray for Sen. Biden and the Madame Speaker that they too might savor the truth of the Church's teaching, not their own understanding of that truth.

Precisely, what is it that makes no sense?

Oddly enough here is a very apolitical message from Dr. Elizabeth Lev, who is a professor in Rome, about the horror of the Born Alive infant protection act being rejected by certain high-ranking politicians. This article just came out today! Perhaps it will shed light on the barbarity of our day.

I can't understand it...

There are actually Catholics that I am aware of, and I am sure others are too, who really think that Barack Obama is a good choice for president. There is no more foundational issue, though definitely not the only issue, that must be considered in making such a claim than Senator Obama's seemingly wanton desire to allow any inconvenient unborn human life to be destroyed. Consider this video:



Regardless, of politics, the desire to destroy human life is an affront to humanity - much like the German National Socialists of the late 1930's-40's, aka the Nazi's. I am NOT saying that Obama is a Nazi, but whether he is a socialist appears to be demonstrable and has purportedly been shown by people much more adept at political ideologies that me. Regardless of these political accusations and labels, one must understand that life is being destroyed at an alarming rate. The respect and dignity of human life is being subsumed under the mantle of convenience. As Catholics we cannot support mankind's murdering of innocent children under the guise of "choice." We each must inform our conscience and consider the gravity of what we are voting for. As Archbishop Chaput says in his new book, could a person who votes for such a pro-abortion candidate, such as Barack Obama, look those aborted children in the eye when they meet them at the Last Judgement?

As far as politics go, here is Glenn Beck's understanding of Obama:


If you want Obama's own words about forcibly redistributing wealth, as the Socialists would suggest we do, listen to his own words about so-called "fairness":


It is amazing to me that some Catholics will actually vote for this man. Mind you, I can't say that I am necessarily saying vote for John Mccain. In fact, I have been kind of interested in the Constitutionalist Party myself. Nevertheless, I am so disheartened once again that as a country we have allowed ourselves to be submersed into the banter of a two party system. My personal opinion is that we should have a third party (and a fourth and fifth) come forward which allows us the opportunity to vote amongst real choices. We should not settle for merely two choices, as if all of the issues fit squarely into these two parties. But such is America in these days, and if it is to change each of us must truly seek to vote our consciences rather than vote for party affiliations.

A Challenge?

A dear friend of mine, who is a priest in England, has just told me about things that are afoot there. It appears Bishop Patrick O'Donaghue, Bishop of Lancaster has today (27 August) released "Fit for Mission?" In this it shows the Church offers practical guidance on how to live out the teachings of the Second Vatican Council, through challenging common misinterpretations of the key council documents on Liturgy, Revelation, the Church, and the Church in the world.

Bishop Patrick is convinced that if we regain the Catholic sense of balancing change with continuity, the life of our parishes will be energised by the gifts of the Holy Spirit given at the Second Vatican Council.

I have downloaded it, and though it is 92 pages, I am going to try to read this document and perhaps you might consider it too. We need to reconsider our faith and recommit ourselves to promoting it, if we truly desire to be disciples of Jesus Christ. Perhaps the good Bishop may give us over here on "the other side of the pond" a little kick in the pants to do it!

He makes a point...

There is so much misunderstanding in the CHurch today, but this article, by my friend, is a good place to begin. Check this out.

All its cracked up to be?

Apparently, the two presumptive nominees for the two media-promoted political parties in America are meeting this weekend. You might be interested to read this interesting article from the California Catholic Daily.

There is so much to be said about the obvious contradiction between Senator Obama claiming Christianity as his religion and the wholesale acceptance of Abortion on demand. How can one who claims to know the creator of life also claim to be pro-abortion - for the death of either a human baby or AT VERY LEAST a potential human (which you must admit since no human embryo ever becomes a chair or a frog!)

Regardless, of this contradiction, this talk would be interesting to watch to see how faith is integral to these to lives which are vying for the Presidency of our beloved country.

What give us the right?

I just read this article which I have shared with our Music department.

I have to admit, I have wondered about this once or twice. It seems a bit odd we think it is appropriate to use the tetragrammaton "YHWH" so liberally. Praise God that the Vatican has made clear the sanctity of the Holy Name of God! May we who have ears to hear listen to what the Spirit says to the Churches.

If you are going to spend any money in this economy...

Make sure it is worth spending!

I just received this forwarded email from our youth minister, Anthony Gallegos:


[snip]

Different Drummer, a company specializing in socially good and redemptive content, including films like Amazing Grace and Bella, is pleased to bring you the movie Henry Poole is Here, starring Luke Wilson, George Lopez, and Adrian Barraza, about a young man (Luke Wilson) who abandons friends and work to spend what he believes are his remaining days alone. The discovery of a "miracle" by a nosy neighbor ruptures his solitude and restores his faith in life.


The movie has the support of the National Federation of Catholic Youth Ministry, National Catholic Young Adult Ministry Association, Catholic Campus Ministry Association, Theology on Tap, National Catholic Student Coalition, Life Teen, Knights of Columbus, etc. For the movie’s opening, August 15th, Catholic organizations, youth and young adult ministries, and individuals are celebrating the Feast of the Assumption – and keeping with the spirit of the day and weekend, organizing a night out at the movies for Henry Poole’s opening weekend. Theology on Tap has provided the official discussion guide for Henry Poole is Here. This will be a great movie night event with an opportunity for substantive discussions. Listed below is all the pertinent information and promotional material for the movie. God Bless!

***HENRY POOLE IS HERE OPENS NATION WIDE FRIDAY, AUGUST 15TH***

Visit the official website for information and national theater listing (available Tuesday, August 5th): http://www.myspace.com/henrypooleishere

Download the official study guide from Renew Theology on Tap: http://www.renewtot.org/

Watch the trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UJHpqyVOwug

Purchase tickets the week of August 10th: http://www.fandango.com/

Group Ticket Sells: 1 877-HENRY90 (436-7990)

USCCB Review: http://www.usccb.org/movies/h/henry-poole.shtml

“This little gem of a film with its truthful emotions, likable characters, and themes of faith and community concern (even when Henry commits a desperate act) should resonate warmly with Catholic viewers.” – USCCB Film and Broadcasting

[snip]

I was kinda skeptical myself but then I checked out the trailer:



Then I realized... "Oh, it has George Lopez playing a priest!!!?? That has to be good." Just kidding. Seriously though, it seems like it is a good movie. And with these kind of endorsements, I would encourage everyone to go out and check this out. And if turns out to be a horrible movie, well offer it up to the Blessed Mother on the feast of her Holy Assumption, body and soul, into heaven.

How can you lose?

The danger of pacifism

I ran across this video last night, though it is long, I would recommend it to whoever is interested in the emerging promience of Islamic culture in our modern world. For us who profess the Catholic Faith, we ought not to fear anyone who desires to destroy the Church. While many have sought to destroy the Church, none have prevailed - why? Because the Church is not made from the mere thoughts of man, but endowed and empowered by the Holy Spirit. Some would think that we should fear the oncoming onslaught talked about in this video, I for one think that while we should prepare to respond to those who would question or discuss the Catholic Faith with us, we should not fear to prepare to offer a witness, even by our death, that the Love of God is real and life-giving.

When one reads the lives of the martyrs we find that no one of them sought to gain anything in this world, except to bear witness to the Love of God in their lives as a gift to Him. This witness never sought to force anyone to anything, except that they might see in our human life that there is something worth truly living and dying for; something which must be chosen and can never be imposed. For the one thing which is not spoken of in Islam is the the freedom to love with one's whole heart, which submission can never hope for.

The Lord Jesus Christ invites us offer our lives to Him in service IN LOVE. This is the reason why people are able to wear flip-flops to Mass or to sacrilege the Holy Eucharist by not discerning their way of life in the Catholic Faith. If we receive the gift and respond most fully we can and should become saints, but if we ignore or devalue the gift of Jesus Christ, then we flagrantly ignore all that God has offered to us in the Holy Catholic Faith. I ask you to consider where are you in your Catholic Faith? Have you accepted all that the Church teaches us as a gift which will bear your greatest joy, which is what Jesus called "life more abundantly (Jn 10:10)." Or have you picked and chosen what you would believe, what is referred to today as "Cafeteria Catholicism."

How woud you know one way or another? St. Gregory of Nyssa taught how Heaven would be going "from Glory to Glory" because we will be dynamically ever-more filled with the Mystery, Love, and Glory that is God. We will be ever satiated, and yet ever more desirous at the same time! For us Catholics, all the way to heaven is heaven, as I often say in RCIA and have heard others say. The point is that if we are perseverant in Love or even obedient in love then God will fufill our desire to know. Nevertheles, there will alway be those who deny this possibility, who can't imagine that the only living God truly is merciful and loving for each of his creation, even if they reject him. The question we must respond to is: Do we reject Him or love Him?

There are many things that are worth discussing about the video above and I hope that any of you who read this blog would offer your comments.

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-871902797772997781

Who doesn't need innocence?

You will notice, if you are a regular reader of this blog, that I have added a new link to the right over there -->. It is to my most favorite band ever, who just so happens to be Catholic and American. I actually know a guy who is playing with them in Lancaster, PA where they are from. I hope you might take moment to check out the link and listen to a few songs. Hopefully you might like them too.

Well, here I sit watching the smoke rise up from Green Mountain, which I can see from my office window. It had gone down quite a bit, but now seems to be flaring up. I hope all are ok over there. Please say a prayer for the Firefighters who are working up there and any families who might be affected. Perhaps this one:

Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary,
That never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection,
implored thy help, or sought thy intercession,
was left unaided.
Inspired by this confidence, I fly to thee O virgin of Virgins, my mother. To thee I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not our petitions, but in your clemency hear them and answer them,
through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Watching the fire plume into the sky made me think of my favorite band, the Innocence Mission. Why? I am not really sure. I just thought about how things are so good when you are young and innocent. We parents have a grave responsibility to help our children enjoy their innocence and to promote it as they grow up. Innocence from what? Well, nothing more than sin - which we can do with the help of the Sacraments.

I often wonder how many people take the Sacraments that seriously? Hopefully, we might reconsider the Sacrament of Confession most especially since our innocence is restored in that Sacrament, while our reparations remain. Life is never easy, but if we catch hold of "the Innocence Mission" which is brough forth in our Lord Jesus Christ then we can be restored in mind, body and strength to arrive at what is most important for our lives - union with God our Father. May no one of us ever doubt that reality, since upon this lies the hope of a better life - no matter what our economic situation is!

If you love life...

then enjoy it!


Baby Steps (English) from American Life League on Vimeo.

Pardon me for thinking like the Holy Father...

Quite awhile ago here at the parish I published an article in the bulletin about clapping at Mass. There was a bit of a "storm" because of it, and being concerned I had somehow spoken out of pride, I searched through the Church's teaching and found nothing that supports the idea. And, in fact, found that we are adding to the Liturgy that which is not called for.

I just read this today, as directed by a dear friend, and now I feel even more strengthened in my position. Now if only someone could point me to the document which says we should not wear flip-flops to Mass...

Don't get me wrong...

I mean, I really do like Frank and Dino - well there music anyway. I don't know if I would have liked them personally. I watched on Netflix, as I think I said, the Frank Sinatra show which was an hour long program in the late 50's (I think). Mostly it has a lot of Frank singing with Ella Fitzgerald joining him at the end.

Frank is Americana, isn't he? I mean can you argue that is not the case, so too with Dino. Especially in the glory of early television where sex and violence was not the norm for our "cultural barometer." My dad actually mentioned something about TV today I found quite striking. He had said that before he went to Korea the Navy showed him movies of people being killed in order to help them prepare for war - what he called "Training Videos." For my dad, modern TV is nothing less than "training videos" for war, or violence anyway.

That got me thinking, along with Frank and Dino - whose hometown I am hours from leaving for, and it made me think of a movie I have yet to see. I checked it out on Youtube, becuase I was wondering about how I heard so much about it. Consider this was in a movie in 1941 (wait for it, after the music):

The motion picture was called "Hellzapoppin," and I would love to see it. There is also a pretty incredible scene in the Marx Brothers movie "A Day at the Races," which I actually own.

All things considered, I think I have lost sight of how much I love Swing dance. I actually won a few contests as Franciscan University while I was there, and started a Swing Dancing Club. It has always struck me how much of a "folk dance" swing dancing is and yet no one promotes it this way.

As our country sinks further into consumerism, I for one will be sure to teach my kids the Great American Swing Dance! Why? Because I think it is one of those things that can be passed on without a bit of money, and you will always have fun once you learn how to do it! Dancing is a natural and integral part to most any society, and yet we are so busy in the United States we are forgetting our dances - I include in this Square Dancing too, which I always loved when I learned it in 3rd & 4th Grade [Thank you Mrs. Card!]

I mean, COME ON!!! GOD BLESS AMERICA! Let's get back to the business of enjoying ourselves without violence, shall we?

Was it a real "board?"

I have to admit: I have always liked Frank Sinatra. But I was thinking about my previous post and the article put together by Prof. Nicolosi. One wonders how would things have been different if the Chairman of the board were known for his Catholic way of life, as opposed to being the "swinging hepcat" that he is known to have been. Now please notice that I am making no judgement calls on Mr. Sinatra, I hardly know that much about him. But I was watching a late late night informercial about the Dean Martin's Celebrity Roasts. I think these seemed like really funny shows, and I am saddened that I never saw them and really don't want to spend the money to get them from Gunthy Renker to get them.

But it struck me how much Frank Sinatra was seen as the hipster old guy who was a so cool. It was very odd. I really began to wonder about why, as a Catholic, he never tried to promote the faith (or perhaps he did and one just never hears about it today with all the other things being promoted by other celebrities).

I leave next week for the Franciscan University of Steubenville. Steubenville, you may know - besides being, according to Cardinal Stafford, an instrumental part of the renewal of the Church in United States - also just happens to be the birth place of Dean Martin. Every time I go there I always enjoy going to Karaoke with a friend of mine and I always sing a Dean Martin song. But reading that article also has made me think about what legacy do these two men, Dean and Frank, have? For the world they were two beloved men who entertained and shared their lives with hundreds of thousands if not millions of people over the course of their lives. But how much did they promote their belief in Jesus. Perhaps they did, as I said, but I have never found anything about it (not that I have actually looked).

On the other hand, when you watch the Frank Sinatra show (which you can watch one episode if you have Netflix) it is awesome how moral it seems to be compared with the sex, violence, apathy and cynicism we have today on the airwaves of American radio and TV.

I guess, at the end of the day, what I am getting at here is that I hope that my life will somehow help others to know Jesus. I just finished teaching two classes at the Archdiocese of Denver for the Catechetical School and it was truly an incredible experience to help (hopefully) people to know the Catholic Faith a little better.

May each of us reassess what our legacy will be for the world. Particularly, one wonders what will become of our President - and I am not taking either political side here - but a "funny" thing happened on the way from the G8 summit! And please God may my legacy be to have helped to established the Reign of Christ! Please pray for me!

A Call to Arms!

There is nothing in this world that is not meant to be put at the service of our Lord Jesus Christ. Nothing. So I was working on a powerpoint presentation today when a friend of mine sent me this link.

It is quite challenging and I think we should encourage all of our children to take the Gospel into their chosen profession, but we should not be afraid to help our children to even consider whether the media arts are not a great way to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

For each of us to do this, we must first understand why there is nothing more important in life than to follow after Jesus Christ, to "pick up our cross and follow him daily." This is not as hard as it sounds, to understand this; to live it, now that is a different story. But if we can't understand it first, and understand it fully then we can never begin to help our children find the joy of life and the true joy of living. Let us not give up on life ourselves, nor give up on our quest for holiness, nor fail to regain this journey in the Sacrament of confession.

UPDATE: The link appears to have failed above, but here it is again: http://www.cuf.org/Laywitness/LWonline/mj08nicolosi.asp I hope you can find it!

May not be for kids...

I have been laughing over this video for quite a few minutes. I know this has nothing to do with anything, but perhaps it may provide a laugh for those of you with an appreciation of dealing with major coporation call centers. It is quite funny, but perhaps may not be the most appropriate thing... depending on how you take the dialogue. I wrestled with whether I should put this one here, but oh when my friend sent it to me I have been laughing ever since... so here you go:

Compelling, I think so...

At first I couldn't figure out what the point of this was... then it struck me...

Sex, Lies and ... the Bible.

I have recently received an email-update from the website for the Population Research Institute. Though I am not sure how I got on their mailing list, I am thankful for some of the articles they send me. Today's article included this:

"Margaret Sanger is one of the pro-choice movement's iconic figures. She is extolled as a pioneering feminist, health worker, and woman's activist. Her quotes on these subject are treated as scripture. But she was also an outspoken supporter of eugenics, who wanted more children from the fit and sterilization, even segregation, for the unfit. The infamous Negro Project, which targeted Blacks for contraception and sterilization, was one outcome of this.

Planned Parenthood, of course, does not want you know these facts. So the organization works hard to burnish Sanger's reputation, and goes into damage control mode whenever questions are raised about her more unsavory views. At the same time, however, they continue to quietly practice what she preached."

I am struck by Margaret Sanger, who my wife has studied more extensively that I have. Ms. Sanger worked tirelessly to kill as many babies (or according to her thinking mere embryos) as she could and to leave a legacy that is sustained by her disciples. One wonders if each of us who call ourselves Christians will have such an impact?

The whole problem, of course, begins in the MZarital Act itself, of course. Without the virtue of chastity you have the problem of so-called "unwanted pregnancy." This is so striking because the problem of abortion begs the question of why does mankind feel the need to promote sex outside of a marriage where a baby would be wanted? I am also reading this month's This Rock magazine, in which there is an article entitled, "If you want Justice, work for Chastity." The basic premise of which is that the human body is not a mere instrument to be used for pleasure, but has our actions - especially our sexual actions - bear a more profound meaning of who we are as people. Particularly, the author notes, as regards our chastity. This is not something promoted or even mentioned in our modern culture - the virtue of chastity.

Chastity is seen as a hindrance to pleasure, when it is in fact the key to living a life of integrity. It is virtue that allows us to live more intensely and more intently. Chastity, however, is often reduced to mere control of lust which demeans the idea of it being a positive virtue. In other words, the virtue of chastity actually gives us more life, rather than merely restricting our sexuality. It is unfortunate that Ms. Sanger saw the world in terms of race and death, such that people were seen to be a hindrance to happiness, as Jean-Paul Sartre held.

For us Catholics, we must realize and strive to live the reality that sexuality is meant to be used in the appropriate avenues granted by God. Why? Because he is some mean guy who forces us to do things we don't want? No. It is because he is a loving Father who has revealed to us the truth about who we are, and how we can best come to fulfillment as human beings, but we must choose this narrow path. Jesus once said, "Enter by the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the way is easy, that leads to destruction, and those who enter it are many. For the gate is narrow, and the way is hard, that leads to life, and those who find it are few (Mt 7:13-14)." I think this is no where more clear than in the area of sexuality.

In our modern world, the lie that our bodies are a mere instrument of who we are has become the norm. Modern media promotes the idea that our body should be used as an instrument of our desire, when the wisdom of mankind - let alone the Catholic Faith for a second - tells us that we are more than mere desire. We have the ability to give ourselves to another with full purpose and intent, and the lessening of this makes us disintegrated and disheveled in our souls. Our Catholic Faith, however, fully helps us to appreciate the great gift of unity that God has revealed for us in Jesus Christ. That man and woman can unite fully in the Sacrament of Marriage is an incredible gift, and unfortunately, for those with homosexual desires, one which can not be fulfilled in same-sex relationships. God desires to consummate his love with our souls in the Holy Eucharist, similar to how a man and woman consummate their marriage and have the ability to bear children because of it. Our souls bear the gift of grace in the world however. Again, we must choose this narrow road. We must desire and seek Christ, and to live fully for him - even if this is an ongoing project.

May we never succumb entirely to the lie that the Catholic Church is outdated in her glorious teaching of our sexuality, for never will man be more fulfilled than in her sacred teachings which she has taught since the time of the apostles. Praise God that we should have such a rock to turn to! And finally, as I prepare to teach for the Catholic Biblical School here in Denver, I am struck by the incredible faithfulness of God which is revealed in the book of the Sacred Scripture. Just consider its been around for so long, and we have a chance to see God's heart by means of the writings there! May you seek him there!

Every hour of EVERY day...

At a time when so many people have gotten such a false impression of the Catholic Faith, one who loves Christ and the Holy Catholic Church must rejoice when good things are happening. Check this out, if you feel like you have been down on your Catholic Faith of late.

UPDATE: Shoot, well i guess I can't link to the video I was hoping you might check out, but you can find it at the above link and scroll down to the bottom where you see three pictures. Click on the one that says Epic. It is quite good!

Funny or True?

My sister is big on the email forwards. I personally don't like 'em. I think they are annoying and ususally I don't spend much time reading them. But then this one came today, which I must say I found quite funny!

1. At Lunch Time, Sit In Your Parked Car With Sunglasses on and point a Hair Dryer At Passing Cars. See If They Slow Down.

2. Page Yourself Over The Intercom. Don't Disguise Your Voice!

3. Every Time Someone Asks You To Do Something,ask If They Want Fries with that.

4. Put Decaf In The Coffee Maker For 3 Weeks Once Everyone has Gotten Over Their Caffeine Addictions,Switch to Espresso.

5. In the Memo Field Of All Your Checks, Write "For Marijuana."

6. Skip down the hall Rather Than Walk and see how many looks you get.

7. Order a Diet Water whenever you go out to eat, with a serious face.

8. Specify That Your Drive-through Order Is 'To Go'.

9. Sing Along At The Opera.

10. Five Days In Advance, Tell Your Friends You Can't Attend Their Party Because You have a headache.

11. When The Money Comes Out The ATM, Scream 'I Won! I Won!'

12. When Leaving the Zoo, Start Running towards the Parking lot, Yelling "Run For Your Lives! They're Loose!"

13. Tell Your Children Over Dinner, "Due To The Economy, We Are Going To Have To Let One Of You Go."

14. And The Final Way To Keep A Healthy Level Of Insanity

Send This E-mail To Someone To Make Them Smile.

It's Called ... THERAPY


Not everyone will appreciate this, and that is ok, but if at least one person got a chuckle that is already accomplishing a lot in these days. Anyway, I am sure at least one of these is probably illegal, and a couple of others will probably seriously cause some need for therapy for your kids!

Totally who's?

One would like to think that as we come to understand who Jesus Christ is that each of us would learn to give assent and to abandon ourselves to our Holy Catholic Faith. The incredible reality of the Catholic Church helps us to consider that there is no other religion like the Catholic Faith. Why? Because only the Catholic Church historically is proven to have been founded by Jesus Christ. You can decide for yourself whether you believe Jesus was the only Son of God who was eternally begotten and was sent by the Father for the sake of our Salvation, but you can't argue historically that Jesus established the Catholic Church.

It takes faith to do what I do. My job sustains my family, but I am not making a living that is extremely comfortable given the growing size of my family and what most Americans are striving own in our modern world. This doesn't bother me too much; though, I think some sort of change may be coming eventually. At any rate, I am struck again by the Totus Tuus team that is hear this week at St. Jude. Their devotion to serve the parish and to serve the Mystical body of Christ is once again very edifying. As with years past, you can see their desire and their faith for the Lord Jesus in their mannerisms and chosen words.

I think it disarms us "adults" in the modern world, where we seek so many things, to meet these young people who are dedicated to spreading the Good News of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Many are the things that invite us to place our faith in the World, many are the things that tempt us to focus on ourselves and our own desires, but these young people give us a great witness of seeking only to do God's will by their devoting an entire summer to serve our Lord Jesus Christ. Sure, they will eventually move on from this summer program and finish their college degrees and seek other things too - jobs, families, success, etc. But it is striking to know that there is an abundance of young people who are building the kingdom of Christ in this world, and when our current team moves on, there will be more young people to take their place. It reminds one of the Catholic notion of family: we parents procreate in order not only to propogate the human species, but also to pass on the joy of the reality of our Catholic Faith. In both ways, teaching and procreating, God blesses those who truly put the effort and sacrifice to pass on these incredible gifts of our Holy Catholic Faith and life, respectively.

I am struck by the edification which this team provides me. Totus Tuus. It's Latin for "Totally Yours" and it is inspired by Pope John Paul II's papal motto (which actually comes from St. Louis De Montfort). These Totus Tuus team members truly have given themselves TOTALLY to Christ for this summer, and hopefully for their whole lives. You can see this if you ask them about how they are doing. In the midst of the light amounts of sleep and rest and time for themselves, they exude the joy of serving Jesus Christ with their whole minds, whole bodies, and whole strengths. Sure they aren't perfect, but their desire to be sure shows.

Whether you have a child in the Totus Tuus program or not, I encourage you to check out the Totus Tuus website. It can be found here. But most importantly, I hope every parishioner at St. Jude will consider joining us for the potluck on Wednesday to meet these young people and to be edified by their desire to serve Jesus Christ. These are the future of our Holy Mother Church!