CATHOLIC LIVING TODAY
"Whoever is not against us is for us"
Twenty-sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time (26B), September 27, 2009
BURNING QUESTION: Can non-Catholics go to heaven?
FEATURED BLOG: Tips for Effective Evangelism
PRIEST STORIES: Stabbed 20 times, priest forgives
PASTORAL HISPANA: Como lidiar con el escandalo
Dear Friends,
In last Sunday's Gospel, there was internal rivalry among the disciples. This Sunday, the apostle John leads them in ganging up against someone they considered to be an outsider - an unnamed exorcist who was driving out demons in Jesus' name. Our Discussion Questions this week can guide you during your Bible Study journey with your family, friends and church groups. Click here to join our Online Sunday Bible Study.
Anyone who is not against us is for us
This is the only time the Apostle John speaks on his own in Mark’s Gospel. Fr. Thomas Rosica, CSB tells us that this Gospel story provides a strong antidote to the ever-present temptation to overestimate one's own position as the chosen of God.
The challenge we face is whether we accept that the Spirit of God works wherever he wishes and through whomsoever he wishes. This means we are to treat our non-Catholic brothers and sisters with deep respect because we recognize that God can and does speak through them as He can and does speak through us. So, according to Fr. Pellegrino, it's perfectly acceptable for us to join them in prayer and in support. But we have to remain faithful Catholics. If we have been admitted to the Eucharist - and we have - we cannot reject the Gift of the Eucharist.
There is goodness everywhere and faith can be found in unexpected places and peoples. Our mission is to discover God. This call for tolerance, however, is not a lazy acceptance of anything that goes. Fr. Jim Kirstein, SMA advises us that if groups put forward doctrines calculated to destroy morality and to remove the foundations from all civilized and Christian society, then they are to be combated.
To Love and to To Heal
Fr. Alex McAllister, the whole passage is summed up in that middle sentence of the Gospel reading about the reward given to those who give even a cup of water to someone because of Christ. Fr. John Foley, S. J. agrees that it is a key to the readings. We must be alert for the Holy Spirit within other persons and respect them, even if we do not like them.
We will comfort the world, and it will be comforted. Fr. Ron Rolheiser says this will happen when we show it that God sees its heart with the eyes of the heart and that God feels for it more than it feels for itself. Fr. Rich Lifrak calls this our destiny together: to love, to sacrifice, to speak, and to act, all for the sake of Jesus and His plans for this earth.
Scandal & Gehenna
Fr. Demetrius R. Dumm, O.S.B. also points out how Jesus uses plain and blunt language to warn us about unholy living. When we use actions or words to mislead and deceive those who are not able to understand what is happening, scandal occurs for Jesus. Fr. Orly Sapuay, MS points out Jesus' warning that one had better drown than lead another astray. He also exhorts us to avoid the causes and occasions of sin in themselves. "Nine Ways to Participate in Another's Sin" is an article that perfectly illustrates this point.
When we sin, Jesus reminds us about Gehenna where the worm does not die and the fire is not quenched. Fr. Phil Bloom says with these images Jesus wants to convince us that nothing could be worse that separation from God. Persistently, Jesus brings us back to the real issue, the issue we want to avoid. Dr. Marcellino D'Ambrosio says our Lord bids us to forget about others’ issues and attend to our our own little compromises with the devil.
Priests: Sacrifice & Forgiveness
This past Wednesday, Sept. 23, we celebrated the feast day of a most holy priest, Fr. Pio. Deacon Greg Kandra homilizes about the saint a.k.a. Francesco Forgione and his most familiar home - the Confessional. From Texas, we bring you a story of a priest who was kicked, beaten and stabbed nearly 20 times. Last rites twice were administered to him in a single day. Still, Father Shaji Varghese harbors no anger toward his attackes. He has chosen to forgive his attacker. And from India, a priest is celebrating the priestly year by giving his kidney to save the life of a Hindu man who is a complete stranger to him.
"Do You Appreciate Your Priest?" To answer this question, a Spanish bishop composed - "with a bit of humor" - the following test titled "Priestly Appreciation." Take the test yourself. It comes complete with instructions on how to evaluate your answers and your level of appreciation for the priesthood.
Prayer & Evangelization
Catholics are known for helping the poor and defending the rights of the persecuted. We are known for our longstanding traditions and our beautiful churches and liturgies. Such things grow from a deep faith. So why is it that we often fall short when it comes to sharing that faith? Fire Up Your Faith! Follow these "Tips for Effective Evangelism." And if prayer is not a part of your daily life, "Why We Pray" can help. It's a list of the Top Ten reasons why we need to move daily prayer to our must-have list.
Family & Life
"You Think it Can't be Done" Check out how one family paid off $100,000 in debt in five years -- and still tithed. It's an unbelievable and inspiring story with real world applications for these trying economic times. And don't overlook importance of eating together as a family. Sept. 28, Monday, is being billed as “Family Day — A Day to Eat Dinner with Your Children” by the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University. Their research has found that the more often children eat dinner with their families, the less likely they are to smoke, drink or use drugs.
From Kansas, we bring you the story of a couple who celebrated 70 years of married life together. It was their faith and commitment, they said, that sustained their "journey of love" together. And here's some good news from the Dominican Republic. With a vote of 128-32, that country's National Assembly ratified on September 16 a revision of Article 30 of the country’s constitution, establishing the right to life and its inviolability from conception to natural death.
Friendship, H1N1, Do-re-mi & the Rosary
One hot, late July afternoon Cheryl Dickow decided to take a walk around her neighborhood. Pregnant, pulling her son in a little red wagon. Find out how a glass of lemonade started a lasting "Friendship made in heaven." And here's one that will put a smile on your face. Check out this "Do-re-mi" video that surprised and delighted unsuspecting passengers one ordinary day at the Antwerp, Belgium train station. Plus if you've ever wondered whether hanging a rosary in your car is a bad thing, here's what Bible Geek told a young reader about the very same topic.
Now that summer is officially over and the cooler weather are about to come in, it's time to get ready for the flu season. And when you do get the sniffles and the body aches, how do you know whether you have the Cold, the Flu or he H1N1 virus? We show you how to tell the difference.
Another eventful day in our Catholic world. Have a safe and blessed new week.
Keep the Faith. Peace.
Wally Arida
Publisher & Editor in chief
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Thursday, September 24, 2009
Thursday, September 17, 2009
"If anyone wishes to be first"
CATHOLIC LIVING TODAY with ParishWorld.net
"If anyone wishes to be first"
Twenty-fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time (25B), September 20, 2009
BURNING QUESTION: Has your Faith been under attack?
FEATURED BLOG: 9 Ways to Participate in Another's Sin
OCATION STORIES: Because It Takes Guts to Be a Priest.
PASTORAL HISPANA: Como lidiar con el escandalo
Dear Friends,
The Gospel passage in Sunday's Readings is the second of the Passion predictions of Jesus in Mark's Gospel. Jesus' announcement of his passion and death leaves the disciples without words. In the meantime, they argue who was the most important among them. Our Discussion Questions will guide your Sunday bible study sessions with your family, friends and church groups. Click here to join our virtual Sunday bible study group.
"But they did not understand"
“The Son of Man is to be handed over to men and they will kill him, and three days after his death the Son of Man will rise.” Jesus tried to break the news to his disciples. But they didn't understand. In fact, Fr. James Gilhooley says the apostles had no wish to hear of this dour subject. They wanted to hear only pleasant lines that promised them happy days, much like many of us do today.
The Pain of Envy
The disciples were were envious of each other and openly discussed who among them was the greatest. Jesus rebuked them, "If anyone wishes to be first, he shall be the last of all and the servant of all." Clearly, they still did not understand what true discipleship means. Fr. Joseph Pellegrino says Jesus was calling them - and us - to be his disciples, His true followers. He calls us to set aside our own desires for the sake of others.
Fr. Orly Sapuay, MS senses that the rivalry among the disciples still goes on even now amongst ourselves. He submits that we should take a second look at our parishes communities today and ask,“What are we arguing about?” Remember that it’s not what we do but what we are that is important. It’s possible, according to Fr. Jim KIrstein, SMA, to possess an attitude of self-worth and accomplishment regardless of what one does. After all, says Dr. Marcellino D'Ambrosio, Envy is no match for the heavenly wisdom of Love.
To Become Like Little Children
Children are apt symbols for powerlessness and total reliance on others. Jesus preaches that we are to become like them, recognizing our radical dependence on God and others. This, according to Fr. Phil Bloom, is the antidote for Envy. We are to welcome the powerless and the disenfranchised. And through this gesture, Fr. Thomas Rosica explains, Jesus illustrates the qualities of the little child within each of us. Fr. Alex McAllister SDS clarifies, however, that it was not Jesus’ purpose to give innocence a high value but to give high value to the acceptance of those without power. When you accept someone whom everyone else considers of no account, Fr. Campion P. Gavaler, OSB says, then you are welcoming Jesus himself.
Fr. John Foley explains what it means to be like a child. When they say the words “I love you,” they mean it to the full extent of their little hearts. It is however a continuing challenge for adults, according to Fr. Ron Rolheiser. How do we unlearn sophistication, undo the fact that we are adults? What kind of recessive journey can revirginize a heart? The answer lies in knowing that our relationship with God is inseparable from our relationship with each other.
Our God Within Us
There is a way to find out if God is living within us. Reflecting on the experience of Symeon the New Theologian, Pope Benedict XVI said it is when we respond to offenses by forgiving and to hatred with love. And for many people, the idea that God is with us and in control is a life-long evolution. But for one Nebraska man, this acceptance was accelerated when he survived the shooting spree at Omaha's Von Maur Department Store in December 2007.
For Tony Blair, the truth came a little bit slower. In the latest issue of L'Osservatore Romano, the former prime minister of England discussed his faith journey to the Catholic Church. adding his belief that Religion has a central and unique role in society and its development.
Our Individual Vocations
Carl Anderson, Grang Knight of the Knights of Columbus, noted in a recent speech that however different each of our vocations are -- priesthood, marriage, consecrated life -- they each have the same goal. All are different manifestations of the vocation we all have in common: the vocation to love. From the Vatican, a priest declared that the Christian family's role is to be the subject, not just the object, of evangelization, with a unique mission to reach out to people in their own circles.
And in response to the many questions why he chose to be Catholic, a man started a blog he calls "Why I am Catholic." This week he offered this reason why: "Because It Takes Guts to Be a Priest." While another Catholic blogger posted this - 9 Ways to Participate in Another's Sin. He asserts that's it's not enough to simply heed the Ten Commandments.
Bible Reading, Business Ethics & Home Sales
As Brazil celebrates the month of the Bible, Cardinal Odilo Scherer recommended to his archdiocese the exercise of prayerful reading of the Word of God, and explained how to do it. He offers four simple steps to "Lectio Divina." While from Oakland, CA, the local chapter of Catholics received from its Bishop Salvatore Cordileone a solid reflection on Business Ethics in the light of Catholic social teaching.
's interesting to note that the state of US home sales has seen the Catholic tradition of planting a statue of St. Joseph as a way to help a house sell is going like gangbusters online, in stores selling religious goods and elsewhere — even if home sales are not.
College, Holiness & Keeping Your Stuff
The Cardinal Newman Society is offering free online guidance to young people and parents who are looking for colleges that are Catholic in name and practice. Click here to view "The Newman Guide to Choosing a Catholic College." In England, young pilgrims at a Catholic renewal festival were treated to an encouraging address by Hispanic actor Eduardo Verastegui. Known as Mexico's Brad Pitt, the actor told the youthful audience that they were called to holiness in their everyday lives. He also spoke about the importance of chastity.
Protect your stuff. There's a wealth of tips offered on locking down your data, but old-school, straight-up stealing is another matter entirely. Try these 10 tips on securing, disguising, tracking down, and hiding your goods so they don't get nicked.
Finally, we were reminded by a priest friend that this Saturday, Sept. 19, is the anniversary of the 1846 apparition of Our Lady of Lasalette, "The weeping woman," at Lasallete, France. Click here to learn more about her message to the world.
Another eventful world in our Catholic world. Have a great and blessed new week.
Keep the Faith. Peace.
Wally Arida
Publisher & Editor in chief
P.S. Virtual Sunday Bible Study. The Gospel touches each of us in different ways. We pray that we be blessed by God's Word as lived out in your personal thoughts, inspirations and life experiences. Click here to share your Bible reflections.
"If anyone wishes to be first"
Twenty-fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time (25B), September 20, 2009
BURNING QUESTION: Has your Faith been under attack?
FEATURED BLOG: 9 Ways to Participate in Another's Sin
OCATION STORIES: Because It Takes Guts to Be a Priest.
PASTORAL HISPANA: Como lidiar con el escandalo
Dear Friends,
The Gospel passage in Sunday's Readings is the second of the Passion predictions of Jesus in Mark's Gospel. Jesus' announcement of his passion and death leaves the disciples without words. In the meantime, they argue who was the most important among them. Our Discussion Questions will guide your Sunday bible study sessions with your family, friends and church groups. Click here to join our virtual Sunday bible study group.
"But they did not understand"
“The Son of Man is to be handed over to men and they will kill him, and three days after his death the Son of Man will rise.” Jesus tried to break the news to his disciples. But they didn't understand. In fact, Fr. James Gilhooley says the apostles had no wish to hear of this dour subject. They wanted to hear only pleasant lines that promised them happy days, much like many of us do today.
The Pain of Envy
The disciples were were envious of each other and openly discussed who among them was the greatest. Jesus rebuked them, "If anyone wishes to be first, he shall be the last of all and the servant of all." Clearly, they still did not understand what true discipleship means. Fr. Joseph Pellegrino says Jesus was calling them - and us - to be his disciples, His true followers. He calls us to set aside our own desires for the sake of others.
Fr. Orly Sapuay, MS senses that the rivalry among the disciples still goes on even now amongst ourselves. He submits that we should take a second look at our parishes communities today and ask,“What are we arguing about?” Remember that it’s not what we do but what we are that is important. It’s possible, according to Fr. Jim KIrstein, SMA, to possess an attitude of self-worth and accomplishment regardless of what one does. After all, says Dr. Marcellino D'Ambrosio, Envy is no match for the heavenly wisdom of Love.
To Become Like Little Children
Children are apt symbols for powerlessness and total reliance on others. Jesus preaches that we are to become like them, recognizing our radical dependence on God and others. This, according to Fr. Phil Bloom, is the antidote for Envy. We are to welcome the powerless and the disenfranchised. And through this gesture, Fr. Thomas Rosica explains, Jesus illustrates the qualities of the little child within each of us. Fr. Alex McAllister SDS clarifies, however, that it was not Jesus’ purpose to give innocence a high value but to give high value to the acceptance of those without power. When you accept someone whom everyone else considers of no account, Fr. Campion P. Gavaler, OSB says, then you are welcoming Jesus himself.
Fr. John Foley explains what it means to be like a child. When they say the words “I love you,” they mean it to the full extent of their little hearts. It is however a continuing challenge for adults, according to Fr. Ron Rolheiser. How do we unlearn sophistication, undo the fact that we are adults? What kind of recessive journey can revirginize a heart? The answer lies in knowing that our relationship with God is inseparable from our relationship with each other.
Our God Within Us
There is a way to find out if God is living within us. Reflecting on the experience of Symeon the New Theologian, Pope Benedict XVI said it is when we respond to offenses by forgiving and to hatred with love. And for many people, the idea that God is with us and in control is a life-long evolution. But for one Nebraska man, this acceptance was accelerated when he survived the shooting spree at Omaha's Von Maur Department Store in December 2007.
For Tony Blair, the truth came a little bit slower. In the latest issue of L'Osservatore Romano, the former prime minister of England discussed his faith journey to the Catholic Church. adding his belief that Religion has a central and unique role in society and its development.
Our Individual Vocations
Carl Anderson, Grang Knight of the Knights of Columbus, noted in a recent speech that however different each of our vocations are -- priesthood, marriage, consecrated life -- they each have the same goal. All are different manifestations of the vocation we all have in common: the vocation to love. From the Vatican, a priest declared that the Christian family's role is to be the subject, not just the object, of evangelization, with a unique mission to reach out to people in their own circles.
And in response to the many questions why he chose to be Catholic, a man started a blog he calls "Why I am Catholic." This week he offered this reason why: "Because It Takes Guts to Be a Priest." While another Catholic blogger posted this - 9 Ways to Participate in Another's Sin. He asserts that's it's not enough to simply heed the Ten Commandments.
Bible Reading, Business Ethics & Home Sales
As Brazil celebrates the month of the Bible, Cardinal Odilo Scherer recommended to his archdiocese the exercise of prayerful reading of the Word of God, and explained how to do it. He offers four simple steps to "Lectio Divina." While from Oakland, CA, the local chapter of Catholics received from its Bishop Salvatore Cordileone a solid reflection on Business Ethics in the light of Catholic social teaching.
's interesting to note that the state of US home sales has seen the Catholic tradition of planting a statue of St. Joseph as a way to help a house sell is going like gangbusters online, in stores selling religious goods and elsewhere — even if home sales are not.
College, Holiness & Keeping Your Stuff
The Cardinal Newman Society is offering free online guidance to young people and parents who are looking for colleges that are Catholic in name and practice. Click here to view "The Newman Guide to Choosing a Catholic College." In England, young pilgrims at a Catholic renewal festival were treated to an encouraging address by Hispanic actor Eduardo Verastegui. Known as Mexico's Brad Pitt, the actor told the youthful audience that they were called to holiness in their everyday lives. He also spoke about the importance of chastity.
Protect your stuff. There's a wealth of tips offered on locking down your data, but old-school, straight-up stealing is another matter entirely. Try these 10 tips on securing, disguising, tracking down, and hiding your goods so they don't get nicked.
Finally, we were reminded by a priest friend that this Saturday, Sept. 19, is the anniversary of the 1846 apparition of Our Lady of Lasalette, "The weeping woman," at Lasallete, France. Click here to learn more about her message to the world.
Another eventful world in our Catholic world. Have a great and blessed new week.
Keep the Faith. Peace.
Wally Arida
Publisher & Editor in chief
P.S. Virtual Sunday Bible Study. The Gospel touches each of us in different ways. We pray that we be blessed by God's Word as lived out in your personal thoughts, inspirations and life experiences. Click here to share your Bible reflections.
Friday, September 11, 2009
"Who do people say that I am?"
CATHOLIC LIVING TODAY
"Who do people say that I am?"
Twenty-fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time (24B), September 13, 2009
BURNING QUESTION: Better to Pray or Learn the Faith?
FEATURED BLOG: Top 10 reasons to become a Catechist V
OCATION NEWS: How St. John Vianney defeated the devil P
ASTORAL HISPANA: La persona de fe
Dear Friends,
In this Sunday's Readings, Jesus and his disciples are in Caesarea Philippi when He asked them, "Who do you say that I am?” Then He began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer greatly and be killed, and rise after three days. Our Discussion Questions will guide your Ssunday bible study sessions with your family, friends and church groups. Click here to join our online Sunday bible study group.
"Who do you say I am?"
Mark makes this episode the centerpiece of his gospel. This Gospel story is about affirmation, identity and purpose of Jesus' mission. Fr. Thomas Rosica, CSB tells us that at some stage, we all must come to the Caesarea Philippi of our lives and answer that same question, "You, who do you say I am?" So Fr. Phil Bloom asks us to reflect on the very same question posed to the apostles: Who do you say that Jesus is? When you stand before a tabernacle, before whom do you stand? Who is Jesus?
Dr. Marcellino d'Ambrosio tells us that at the very heart of what God is saying to us through this Sunday’s readings and reveals the difference between authentic vs. phony faith. Fr. Alex McAllister SDS says Jesus is asking his disciples who they think He is in order to help them realise what a heavy price they will pay to be a Christian. He is also warning off any one who might be tempted to follow him in a light-hearted or casual way.
Father Cusick says Jesus himself interpreted the Scriptures for us, so that we might fully understand that His Lordship is established by His victory over sin in his suffering, Passion, death and Resurrection. He does not ask us to examine and evaluate his teachings. Fr. Orly Sapuay points out that Jesus asks us to accept them. He does not ask us to acknowledge him as the founder of a new religion. He challenges us to profess that He is God.
Take Up Your Cross and Follow Him
A love that carries someone into death is quite difficult to understand. It hides down there “beyond all thought and feeling and imagination.” But it is exactly what Jesus is teaching us about. It will take a while more for the apostles to understand what Jesus meant about his death, just as it will for us. Fr. John Foley tells us that just like the apostles,we will also run away when Christ has to actually “suffer greatly and be killed.” And Fr. Andrew M. Greeley says Mark's Gospel assures us that tragedy is part of the human condition and that faith in Jesus requires that one face it with courage and honesty.
Faith Without Works
he sacrificial love of Christians, the accepting of the cross is not for ourselves. It is for others. This is where the second reading from James comes in. All that we do by way of sacrifice we do for others. It is not that you have to add works to faith to be saved. It is that faith that fails to issue in changed lives is not true faith at all. It is, in fact, bogus faith – an illusion.
Pope Benedict uses the example of St. Monica to illustrate this point, referrring to how she guided her wayward son St. Augustine back to God. Another important way we can help pass on knowledge, faith and love is to becomea catechist. We frequently hear that too few Catholics know their faith and the temptation is to spend so much time assigning blame that doing something about it. We give you the top 10 reasons why you should become a catechist.
Life, Faith and Taking to the Airwaves
In the cyberworld, many Christian couples are beginning to adopt a simple suggestion to avoid temptation when going online: they're sharing a common email address. It's part of a growing trend towards marital fidelity online that is taking root among more and more Christian couples. Check out the rest of these internet fidelity pointers.
From Afghanistan, we bring you the story of Cpl. Andrew Roy Jr. and his spiritual journey that led him from being agnostic to a devout Roman Catholic. In a desert military tent, his spiritual fervor offers groups of soldiers from all denominations a regular oasis of religious discussion and dialogue about his Catholic faith and the church. While from California, the Diocese of Sacramento is thinking broader. They are taking to the airwaves to bring fallen-away Catholics back into the fold with a planned major Christmas advertising campaign.
From the Vatican, Pope Benedict used the example of St. Bonaventure to affirm that study and reflection alone were not sufficient to truly draw us nearer to God. Study must be accompanied by grace, St. Bonaventure taught, science by love, intelligence by humility. Also this week, a Vatican body pointeds out that when science meddles with Life, children become instrumentalized. For many years, the Catholic Church has pointed out the ethical problems related to in-vitro fertilization (IVF). The Vatican body explained, "The desire for a child cannot justify the 'production' of offspring, just as the desire not to have a child cannot justify the abandonment or destruction of a child once he or she has been conceived."
Confession & Forgiveness
eople have all sorts of reasons for not going to Confession. They are nervous, scared or worried about what the priest may think. A Catholic policeman - yes he's a true blue cop - says we these fears can easily be dispelled. So he decided to create his own Top Ten list. Its his ten top reasons for going to Confession. And here's a question one youth minister received by email: "If one is in a state of mortal sin, and makes an act of contrition and intends to go to confession as soon as possible but dies before it, what happens?" Check out the youth mnister's worthy response.
Finally, on the anniversary of the outbreak of World War II, the pope said the horrors and genocide of that war affirms even more that Religion must always promote Forgivenes.
Wet Pants, Healing & More
God is moving – in profound ways – all around the world and even in your own life. Check out "Do you see it?" and be moved. My friend Raoul Pascual of Pasadena, CA shared this touching story of a 9-year-old kid who accidentally wet his pants in class. Read "Wet Pants" and see how an embarrasing accident turned into an inspiring tale. And Bo Sanchez is back this week with"Do You Want God To Heal You?" Whether the affliction is physical or spiritual, he says the steps to healing are the same: locate the wound, clean the wound, and strengthen the body.
Food TV Throwdown and "Idol"
The Archdiocese of Miami is chasing at the heels of American Idol with their own Catholic version of the popular singing competition. It is hosting this year the third "Voice of an Angel" contest — patterned after television's immensely popular "American Idol" — and the first time it opened to contestants outside the Miami diocese. And finally, did you see the Sept. 9 episode of "Throwdown" starring celebrity chef Bobby Flay? In that episode, Bobby Flay challenged a Baltimore Catholic priest to a steak fajitas showdown. Father Leo is a great cook. He's also the author of the best-selling book, "Grace Before Meals."
New This Week: Online Sunday Bible Study
Our new Online Sunday Bible Study Group launched this week. We ask you all to click here and join us. Share your reflections on the Sunday Readings - anonymously if you wish. The Gospel touches each of us in different ways. With this new online bible study group, we pray that we all be blessed by God's Word as lived out by your personal thoughts, inspirations and life experiences.
Another event-filled week in our Catholic world. Have a great and blessed new week.
Keep the Faith. Peace.
Wally Arida
Publisher & Editor in chief
P.S. If your parish is suffering from parish website blues, you're not alone. Click here to see how we can help.
Follow us on Twitter
Click Here to view any of our previous weeks' issues
Click Here to receive a FREE SUBSCRIPTION to this weekly email
"Who do people say that I am?"
Twenty-fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time (24B), September 13, 2009
BURNING QUESTION: Better to Pray or Learn the Faith?
FEATURED BLOG: Top 10 reasons to become a Catechist V
OCATION NEWS: How St. John Vianney defeated the devil P
ASTORAL HISPANA: La persona de fe
Dear Friends,
In this Sunday's Readings, Jesus and his disciples are in Caesarea Philippi when He asked them, "Who do you say that I am?” Then He began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer greatly and be killed, and rise after three days. Our Discussion Questions will guide your Ssunday bible study sessions with your family, friends and church groups. Click here to join our online Sunday bible study group.
"Who do you say I am?"
Mark makes this episode the centerpiece of his gospel. This Gospel story is about affirmation, identity and purpose of Jesus' mission. Fr. Thomas Rosica, CSB tells us that at some stage, we all must come to the Caesarea Philippi of our lives and answer that same question, "You, who do you say I am?" So Fr. Phil Bloom asks us to reflect on the very same question posed to the apostles: Who do you say that Jesus is? When you stand before a tabernacle, before whom do you stand? Who is Jesus?
Dr. Marcellino d'Ambrosio tells us that at the very heart of what God is saying to us through this Sunday’s readings and reveals the difference between authentic vs. phony faith. Fr. Alex McAllister SDS says Jesus is asking his disciples who they think He is in order to help them realise what a heavy price they will pay to be a Christian. He is also warning off any one who might be tempted to follow him in a light-hearted or casual way.
Father Cusick says Jesus himself interpreted the Scriptures for us, so that we might fully understand that His Lordship is established by His victory over sin in his suffering, Passion, death and Resurrection. He does not ask us to examine and evaluate his teachings. Fr. Orly Sapuay points out that Jesus asks us to accept them. He does not ask us to acknowledge him as the founder of a new religion. He challenges us to profess that He is God.
Take Up Your Cross and Follow Him
A love that carries someone into death is quite difficult to understand. It hides down there “beyond all thought and feeling and imagination.” But it is exactly what Jesus is teaching us about. It will take a while more for the apostles to understand what Jesus meant about his death, just as it will for us. Fr. John Foley tells us that just like the apostles,we will also run away when Christ has to actually “suffer greatly and be killed.” And Fr. Andrew M. Greeley says Mark's Gospel assures us that tragedy is part of the human condition and that faith in Jesus requires that one face it with courage and honesty.
Faith Without Works
he sacrificial love of Christians, the accepting of the cross is not for ourselves. It is for others. This is where the second reading from James comes in. All that we do by way of sacrifice we do for others. It is not that you have to add works to faith to be saved. It is that faith that fails to issue in changed lives is not true faith at all. It is, in fact, bogus faith – an illusion.
Pope Benedict uses the example of St. Monica to illustrate this point, referrring to how she guided her wayward son St. Augustine back to God. Another important way we can help pass on knowledge, faith and love is to becomea catechist. We frequently hear that too few Catholics know their faith and the temptation is to spend so much time assigning blame that doing something about it. We give you the top 10 reasons why you should become a catechist.
Life, Faith and Taking to the Airwaves
In the cyberworld, many Christian couples are beginning to adopt a simple suggestion to avoid temptation when going online: they're sharing a common email address. It's part of a growing trend towards marital fidelity online that is taking root among more and more Christian couples. Check out the rest of these internet fidelity pointers.
From Afghanistan, we bring you the story of Cpl. Andrew Roy Jr. and his spiritual journey that led him from being agnostic to a devout Roman Catholic. In a desert military tent, his spiritual fervor offers groups of soldiers from all denominations a regular oasis of religious discussion and dialogue about his Catholic faith and the church. While from California, the Diocese of Sacramento is thinking broader. They are taking to the airwaves to bring fallen-away Catholics back into the fold with a planned major Christmas advertising campaign.
From the Vatican, Pope Benedict used the example of St. Bonaventure to affirm that study and reflection alone were not sufficient to truly draw us nearer to God. Study must be accompanied by grace, St. Bonaventure taught, science by love, intelligence by humility. Also this week, a Vatican body pointeds out that when science meddles with Life, children become instrumentalized. For many years, the Catholic Church has pointed out the ethical problems related to in-vitro fertilization (IVF). The Vatican body explained, "The desire for a child cannot justify the 'production' of offspring, just as the desire not to have a child cannot justify the abandonment or destruction of a child once he or she has been conceived."
Confession & Forgiveness
eople have all sorts of reasons for not going to Confession. They are nervous, scared or worried about what the priest may think. A Catholic policeman - yes he's a true blue cop - says we these fears can easily be dispelled. So he decided to create his own Top Ten list. Its his ten top reasons for going to Confession. And here's a question one youth minister received by email: "If one is in a state of mortal sin, and makes an act of contrition and intends to go to confession as soon as possible but dies before it, what happens?" Check out the youth mnister's worthy response.
Finally, on the anniversary of the outbreak of World War II, the pope said the horrors and genocide of that war affirms even more that Religion must always promote Forgivenes.
Wet Pants, Healing & More
God is moving – in profound ways – all around the world and even in your own life. Check out "Do you see it?" and be moved. My friend Raoul Pascual of Pasadena, CA shared this touching story of a 9-year-old kid who accidentally wet his pants in class. Read "Wet Pants" and see how an embarrasing accident turned into an inspiring tale. And Bo Sanchez is back this week with"Do You Want God To Heal You?" Whether the affliction is physical or spiritual, he says the steps to healing are the same: locate the wound, clean the wound, and strengthen the body.
Food TV Throwdown and "Idol"
The Archdiocese of Miami is chasing at the heels of American Idol with their own Catholic version of the popular singing competition. It is hosting this year the third "Voice of an Angel" contest — patterned after television's immensely popular "American Idol" — and the first time it opened to contestants outside the Miami diocese. And finally, did you see the Sept. 9 episode of "Throwdown" starring celebrity chef Bobby Flay? In that episode, Bobby Flay challenged a Baltimore Catholic priest to a steak fajitas showdown. Father Leo is a great cook. He's also the author of the best-selling book, "Grace Before Meals."
New This Week: Online Sunday Bible Study
Our new Online Sunday Bible Study Group launched this week. We ask you all to click here and join us. Share your reflections on the Sunday Readings - anonymously if you wish. The Gospel touches each of us in different ways. With this new online bible study group, we pray that we all be blessed by God's Word as lived out by your personal thoughts, inspirations and life experiences.
Another event-filled week in our Catholic world. Have a great and blessed new week.
Keep the Faith. Peace.
Wally Arida
Publisher & Editor in chief
P.S. If your parish is suffering from parish website blues, you're not alone. Click here to see how we can help.
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Thursday, September 3, 2009
“Ephphatha!”— that is, “Be opened!”
CATHOLIC LIVING TODAY
"Ephphatha!"— that is, "Be opened!"
Twenty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time (23B), September 6, 2009
BURNING QUESTION: Is religion for the weak-minded?
FEATURED BLOG: Newman Centers - "Faith home" away from home
VOCATION NEWS: "Signs of Hope" - A priest's ministry to the deaf
PASTORAL HISPANA: Aprender a escuchar
ear Friends, In this Sunday's Gospel, Jesus performs one of several miracles attributed to him in the bible. He listens to the pleas of a deaf man and heals him. Our Discussion Questions this week will be a very handy guide as you conduct your Sunday Readings bible study sessions with your family, friends or church groups.
So what's the point? Dr. Marcellino D'Ambrosi discuses how the Four Gospels and even secular historians all agree — Jesus of Nazareth worked miracles. The question is: why did he do them? To prove that he was a prophet or maybe even something more? Or was his motive compassion for the suffering?
Fr. Andrew Greeley says Mark’s repeated gospel theme is that Jesus did indeed do signs and wonders. But He refused demands for spectacular signs because he was not merely a wonder worker. He opens the hearts of all as the first reading suggests. Fr. Campion P. Gavaler, OSB adds that Mark's narrative proclaims the good news that Jesus has the power to heal our deafness and our blindness so we can speak the truth about him and glorify God without impediment.
We are ephphethized people
Fr. Thomas Rosica shares his observation that our contemporary world has grown deaf to the words of Jesus. However it is not a physical deafness but a spiritual deafness caused by sin. We are deaf when we refuse to recognize those who suffer in the world around us. After all, we the baptized are ephphethized people according to Fr. Orly Sapuay, MS. We are commanded to open our eyes to see what should be seen, but there are always things we don’t want to see. And so we don’t see them.
He adds that Christianity is primarily about the pursuit of the perfection of charity, and not just the pursuit of "my own peace of mind". and to this, Fr. John Foley, S. J.declares that a human person is built to be loved by God, not just to have good health, riches, or reputation. Real life consists of exchanging love with God and with others, not just in seeming to be a leader or a success.
Evidence of our Baptism
The Gospels, according to Father Cusick, are filled with the evidence of the sacramental system initiated by Christ. As incarnate God he uses physical reality, the gifts of God's creation, as signs to bear the grace of supernatural life. Upon this deaf man, he used his spit and placed it on the man's ears to perform the miracle. Fr. Joseph Pellegrino says this is a story with baptismal overtones, for during baptism the priest touches the neophytes ears and mouth and says be open. Jesus touched him then. And He touches us now.
Faith is to believe that he alone has power to save us, that he can open our eyes and ears. Fr. Phil Bloom tells us that as Jesus healed the deaf man and gave him a voice, he will help each of us listen to him.
Sharing Christ's Love
The power of faith's hearing and seeing enables us to realize that the only way to share Christ's resurrection is through sharing Christ's love, thereby following in his way of the cross. It is only the power of love that conquers evil. And so this Sunday at Mass, let us ask ourselves whether intimate presence is part of the goal of our own lives. Do we know that God is deeply involved with us? Do we let his love flow into us and through us to others, or must it fight its way around us? Let’s pray to hear, as the deaf man finally did.
St. John Vianney & St. Augustine
Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted of the Diocese of Phoenix tell us how St. John Vianney defeated the devil. He did it through the confessional where he spent great lengths of time in service to the Lord and His people. His popularity as a confessor increased year by year that railway cars had to be added to the trains from Lyons to Ars to accommodate the hundreds of pilgrims traveling to have them hear his confession each day.
And we reflect upon St. Augustine, one of the greatest and most influential Church Fathers. His writings have shaped Christian theology. Much is known about his life but here are ten facts you might not know about him.
More Priests Stories
This Sunday's gospel focuses on Jesus' healing of a deaf man. We give you a wonderful companion piece about how a Catholic priest is ministering to the deaf in his Harrisburg, PA parish. Meanwhile some of the over 1 million visitors at the Minnesota State Fair got a Catholic treat when priests from the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis answered questions from the public when they hosted “Grill a Priest.” It was part of the "Theology on a Stick" series of events at the state fair.
Meanwhile from Denver, a group of seminarians are validating the national trend. More and more seminarians today are leaning conservative and favoring religious orders that offer stricter adherence to Church teachings. This discipline embodies a new experiment in molding future Catholic priests.
Labor Day & Papal Messages
n a message for Labor Day on Monday, Sept. 7, the U.S. bishops are underlining the need to retain hope and pray for those who have lost jobs during the economic recession. The USCCB message calls for rebuilding the economy guided by ethical principles. From the Vatican, Pope Benedict released his papal prayer intentions for the month of September and he will be praying in a particular way for the evangelization of the Word of God.
Back to College & More
As millions head back to college, miles away from their home parishes, many will find their Catholic faith challenged in different ways. Expect the different Newman Centers at their respective campuses to play a significan role as their faith home away from home. Also a young lady tells us how she used to think the Bible was boring. Then, she said one Sunday Mass changed everything. Her story is aptly titled, "Read the Bible? Me?"
Stories of Hope
Some years ago, a little boy decided to go for a swim in the old swimming hole behind his house not realizing that an alligator was swimming toward the shore. "Scars of Life" tells the story of the brave struggle between his father who wouldn't let go and the alligator who wanted to pull him to the bottom of the lake. Plus we bring you the story of "The Non-believing Barber" which offers an explanation of why God allows pain and suffering in our lives.
Just Coffee & a Good Night's Rest
If it weren’t for the coffee, Daniel Cifuentes would have crossed the U.S.-Mexico border illegally years ago. Today, he runs a coffee roaster just south of Douglas, Ariz., where he and another employee prepare beans for Café Justo, a Mexican grower cooperative founded to address the root causes of migration out of the country. Most of their coffee is distributed through Catholic parishes on both sides of the border.
Finally, for many people getting enough sleep each night might seem like a luxury, instead of a necessity. However, experts say sleep is as important as regular exercise and a good diet. Here's the test for whether you're getting enough sleep. You shouldn't feel drowsy during the day, even during boring activities. If you do, you aren't getting enough sleep.
Another eventful week in our Catholic world. Have a safe and blessed Labor Day weekend.
Keep the Faith. Peace.
Wally Arida
Publisher & Editor in chief
P.S.: Is Your Parish Website Collecting Dust? Almost all parishes have websites. But almost no one visits them. We assist by helping your parish convert your current websites from dull, ineffective online parish brochures into active, dynamic portals for true evangelization. Get more info here.
Post a comment.
Follow us on Twitter
Click Here to view any of our previous weeks' issues
Click Here to receive a FREE SUBSCRIPTION to this weekly email
"Ephphatha!"— that is, "Be opened!"
Twenty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time (23B), September 6, 2009
BURNING QUESTION: Is religion for the weak-minded?
FEATURED BLOG: Newman Centers - "Faith home" away from home
VOCATION NEWS: "Signs of Hope" - A priest's ministry to the deaf
PASTORAL HISPANA: Aprender a escuchar
ear Friends, In this Sunday's Gospel, Jesus performs one of several miracles attributed to him in the bible. He listens to the pleas of a deaf man and heals him. Our Discussion Questions this week will be a very handy guide as you conduct your Sunday Readings bible study sessions with your family, friends or church groups.
So what's the point? Dr. Marcellino D'Ambrosi discuses how the Four Gospels and even secular historians all agree — Jesus of Nazareth worked miracles. The question is: why did he do them? To prove that he was a prophet or maybe even something more? Or was his motive compassion for the suffering?
Fr. Andrew Greeley says Mark’s repeated gospel theme is that Jesus did indeed do signs and wonders. But He refused demands for spectacular signs because he was not merely a wonder worker. He opens the hearts of all as the first reading suggests. Fr. Campion P. Gavaler, OSB adds that Mark's narrative proclaims the good news that Jesus has the power to heal our deafness and our blindness so we can speak the truth about him and glorify God without impediment.
We are ephphethized people
Fr. Thomas Rosica shares his observation that our contemporary world has grown deaf to the words of Jesus. However it is not a physical deafness but a spiritual deafness caused by sin. We are deaf when we refuse to recognize those who suffer in the world around us. After all, we the baptized are ephphethized people according to Fr. Orly Sapuay, MS. We are commanded to open our eyes to see what should be seen, but there are always things we don’t want to see. And so we don’t see them.
He adds that Christianity is primarily about the pursuit of the perfection of charity, and not just the pursuit of "my own peace of mind". and to this, Fr. John Foley, S. J.declares that a human person is built to be loved by God, not just to have good health, riches, or reputation. Real life consists of exchanging love with God and with others, not just in seeming to be a leader or a success.
Evidence of our Baptism
The Gospels, according to Father Cusick, are filled with the evidence of the sacramental system initiated by Christ. As incarnate God he uses physical reality, the gifts of God's creation, as signs to bear the grace of supernatural life. Upon this deaf man, he used his spit and placed it on the man's ears to perform the miracle. Fr. Joseph Pellegrino says this is a story with baptismal overtones, for during baptism the priest touches the neophytes ears and mouth and says be open. Jesus touched him then. And He touches us now.
Faith is to believe that he alone has power to save us, that he can open our eyes and ears. Fr. Phil Bloom tells us that as Jesus healed the deaf man and gave him a voice, he will help each of us listen to him.
Sharing Christ's Love
The power of faith's hearing and seeing enables us to realize that the only way to share Christ's resurrection is through sharing Christ's love, thereby following in his way of the cross. It is only the power of love that conquers evil. And so this Sunday at Mass, let us ask ourselves whether intimate presence is part of the goal of our own lives. Do we know that God is deeply involved with us? Do we let his love flow into us and through us to others, or must it fight its way around us? Let’s pray to hear, as the deaf man finally did.
St. John Vianney & St. Augustine
Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted of the Diocese of Phoenix tell us how St. John Vianney defeated the devil. He did it through the confessional where he spent great lengths of time in service to the Lord and His people. His popularity as a confessor increased year by year that railway cars had to be added to the trains from Lyons to Ars to accommodate the hundreds of pilgrims traveling to have them hear his confession each day.
And we reflect upon St. Augustine, one of the greatest and most influential Church Fathers. His writings have shaped Christian theology. Much is known about his life but here are ten facts you might not know about him.
More Priests Stories
This Sunday's gospel focuses on Jesus' healing of a deaf man. We give you a wonderful companion piece about how a Catholic priest is ministering to the deaf in his Harrisburg, PA parish. Meanwhile some of the over 1 million visitors at the Minnesota State Fair got a Catholic treat when priests from the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis answered questions from the public when they hosted “Grill a Priest.” It was part of the "Theology on a Stick" series of events at the state fair.
Meanwhile from Denver, a group of seminarians are validating the national trend. More and more seminarians today are leaning conservative and favoring religious orders that offer stricter adherence to Church teachings. This discipline embodies a new experiment in molding future Catholic priests.
Labor Day & Papal Messages
n a message for Labor Day on Monday, Sept. 7, the U.S. bishops are underlining the need to retain hope and pray for those who have lost jobs during the economic recession. The USCCB message calls for rebuilding the economy guided by ethical principles. From the Vatican, Pope Benedict released his papal prayer intentions for the month of September and he will be praying in a particular way for the evangelization of the Word of God.
Back to College & More
As millions head back to college, miles away from their home parishes, many will find their Catholic faith challenged in different ways. Expect the different Newman Centers at their respective campuses to play a significan role as their faith home away from home. Also a young lady tells us how she used to think the Bible was boring. Then, she said one Sunday Mass changed everything. Her story is aptly titled, "Read the Bible? Me?"
Stories of Hope
Some years ago, a little boy decided to go for a swim in the old swimming hole behind his house not realizing that an alligator was swimming toward the shore. "Scars of Life" tells the story of the brave struggle between his father who wouldn't let go and the alligator who wanted to pull him to the bottom of the lake. Plus we bring you the story of "The Non-believing Barber" which offers an explanation of why God allows pain and suffering in our lives.
Just Coffee & a Good Night's Rest
If it weren’t for the coffee, Daniel Cifuentes would have crossed the U.S.-Mexico border illegally years ago. Today, he runs a coffee roaster just south of Douglas, Ariz., where he and another employee prepare beans for Café Justo, a Mexican grower cooperative founded to address the root causes of migration out of the country. Most of their coffee is distributed through Catholic parishes on both sides of the border.
Finally, for many people getting enough sleep each night might seem like a luxury, instead of a necessity. However, experts say sleep is as important as regular exercise and a good diet. Here's the test for whether you're getting enough sleep. You shouldn't feel drowsy during the day, even during boring activities. If you do, you aren't getting enough sleep.
Another eventful week in our Catholic world. Have a safe and blessed Labor Day weekend.
Keep the Faith. Peace.
Wally Arida
Publisher & Editor in chief
P.S.: Is Your Parish Website Collecting Dust? Almost all parishes have websites. But almost no one visits them. We assist by helping your parish convert your current websites from dull, ineffective online parish brochures into active, dynamic portals for true evangelization. Get more info here.
Post a comment.
Follow us on Twitter
Click Here to view any of our previous weeks' issues
Click Here to receive a FREE SUBSCRIPTION to this weekly email
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