"If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away."

This Sunday's Gospel is a continuation of the Sermon on the Mount and Matthew emphasizes the relation between Jewish Law and the teaching of Jesus. Our Discussion Questions will guide your Online Sunday Bible Study sessions with your family, friends and church groups.

"Cut it off!"

This is some very difficult material in today's Gospel. 'If anyone kills he will answer for it before the court. But I say this to you: Anyone who is angry with his brother will answer for it before the court.' 'You must not commit adultery. But I say this to you: if a man looks at a woman lustfully, he has already committed adultery with her in his heart.' 'If your right hand causes you to sin cut it off and throw it away; for it will do you less harm to lose one part of you than to have your whole body go to hell.'

Some of Jesus’ sayings above are downright shocking. Is he endorsing self-mutilation? If not, what can he possibly mean by this? Dr. Marcellino D'Ambrosio explains.

Introducing a New Thinking

Matthew reassures his readers that Jesus has not come to abolish the Law and the prophets but to bring them to completion. It is there, on that holy mountain in Galilee, after having declared the perpetual validity of the law and the duty to observe it that Jesus went on to affirm a new observance of the law. And Fr. Thomas Rosica, CSB says it is one animated by the new evangelical spirit of charity and sincerity.

For Jesus, Fr. Alex McAllister SDS explains, just to keep the Law externally is not enough. Such observance, Fr. Demetrius R. Dumm, O.S.B. reminds us, can easily co-exist with an interior attitude that is judgmental and unforgiving. The Scribes and the Pharisees kept the Law and the Commandments very carefully, explains Fr. Orlando Sapuay. M.S.. But Jesus would say that, though they observed the external requirements of the Law, they did not have the spirit which is the foundation of the Law: to love God and to love the neighbor as oneself.

Four times Jesus quotes a passage from the Hebrew Bible, what we call the Old Testament. After citing each of the Scripture verses, Jesus says, "But I say to you..." Fr. Phil Bloom says our Lord is making an amazing claim of authority and power. Jesus did not come to give a new law. He came to give us Himself.

True conversion is conversion of the heart

The Sermon on the Mount is not about does and don’ts. It is not about limitations, how little must I do to slip by St. Peter at the gates of heaven. Fr. Joseph Pellegrino says the Sermon on the Mount is about being fully alive in Jesus Christ. It is about nourishing the eternal life within us.

In Christ is the fullness of God, perfectly revealed for us. Father Cusick points out that Jesus is the fulfillment of the Commandments. In Him, we can share in the glory of God, in his holiness and life. This we are advised by Fr. John Foley, S. J. to watch Jesus as we progress through life. The inside of the law is written in His heart. As you and I grow up, let it be written in us too.

Marriage & Divorce

Nowhere in the 5000 years of recorded history was marriage in worse shape than when Jesus came. Our own age, with its high divorce rate, would almost emerge as a golden age by comparison. So what did Jesus have in mind when He speaks in this Gospel passage about marriage? Fr. James Gilhooley says it was clearly to reinforce the sacredness of marital unity among the Jews of His time.

Then Jesus in this Gospel drops the bomb, "Everyone who divorces his wife forces her to commit adultery. The man who marries a divorced woman likewise commits adultery." When Jesus spoke them way back then, they struck the first audiences as off the wall. And even nowadays with a reported 50% of all marriages ending in divorce, these words continue to reverberate in our society.

Are you divorced or know someone who is? So now what? Can divorced people remarry? Can they receive Holy Communion? Is divorce a sin according to the Catholic Church? Let's try correcting some misunderstood Church teachings regarding Divorce.

When we discuss this topic, it's quite inevitable that we also talk about Catholic annulment. Contrary to what many might think, it is not Catholic divorce. Annulment is a thorny issue for many Catholics and widely misunderstood outside the Church. But it is a valid recourse for some failed marriages. Even Pope Benedict himself this week reinforced from the Vatican that people in doubt about their marriage status have a right to a speedy and simple process to determine nullity. Let's take a look at ten of the most commonly asked questions about annulment.

Prayer, the Bible & Youth Catechism

Taylor Marshall cautions Catholics to be very careful when they study the Scriptures because there are two dangerous pitfalls. The first is the error of reading Sacred Scripture apart from the Fathers and Popes of the Catholic Church. The second problem is that there are many terrible Bible translations out there. Just little shifts in language here and there can produce huge theological errors. To help the faithful, he offers some "Bible Study Helps for Catholics."

The Scriptures are gift for the ultimate purpose of leading us to heaven. St Bonaventure (1221-1274) the Seraphic Doctor of the Catholic Church explains that reading Sacred Scripture is not enough. One can only properly understand the Scriptures if he already has the truth of Faith in his heart.

Church teachings on the Scripture, of course, can be found in the Catechism of the Catholic Church. Pope Benedict this week recommended as "Extraordinary" the new catechism for young people being prepared in light of the upcoming World Youth Day.

And many of us can relate to this humbling dissertation by Matthew Archbold : 7 Reasons I Stink at Praying. He carries the burden for all of us by admitting that he's the worst prayer in the world. But the good news is that it doesn’t stop him - and us - from trying.

Walking in the Wide Catholic Church

The Church is wide, explains Msgr. Charles Pope. And he thinks of the Christian journey as a trip up the King’s Highway. Now on this road there are a good number of lanes. There's room for all - conservatives, liberal, rich, poor, Republicans, Democrats, etc.The Church permits us to drive in any or all the lanes. But she sets up guard rails beyond which we must not go. It's a great read on Church unity. And in the end we're all one. Even in places where God is denied, the world today is nostalgic for God. Benedict XVI declared it this week from the Vatican.

Now here's an inquiring question from a reader: After what point of lateness can I no longer receive Communion or fulfill obligation? Fr. John Zuhlsdorf offers kind pastoral advise we can all learn from.

Catholics in Media (CIMA) 2011 Awards Feb. 20, 2011

The Catholics in Media Associates (CIMA) 18th Annual Mass and Awards Brunch on Sunday, February 20th, 2011 will honor Fox Searchlight Films’ “Conviction” and CBS Television’s “Blue Bloods.” The CBS daytime drama “The Bold and The Beautiful” will receive the CIMA 2011 Humanitarian Award. The event at the Beverly Hills Hotel, Beverly Hills, CA, will begin with a Mass at 10:00 AM with a brunch and awards ceremony to follow. Click here to purchase tickets for the awards brunch.

Finally, let's talk about napping. It's often frowned upon in our workaholic American culture. But in reality, the nap stigma is incredibly misplaced. Naps can be one of the most powerful tools for self-improvement; they can increase not only our health and well-being but our intelligence and productivity as well. Allow us to show you its immense benefits.

Another eventful week in our Catholic World. Have a great and blessed new week.

BURNING QUESTION: Is Divorce a sin according to the Catholic Church?
FEATURED BLOG: 7 Reasons I Stink at Praying
PASTORAL HISPANA: No he venido a abolir la Ley y los profetas

Post a comment below. 
Follow us on Twitter
Click Here to receive a FREE SUBSCRIPTION to this weekly email
--

"You are the light of the world."

In the Gospels of the last four Sundays we've been following the story of Jesus’ early career. First he went to be baptized. Then he moved to Capernaum when John the Baptist was killed, and he chose his apostles. Last Sunday we heard part of his “inaugural address,” the beatitudes. In this Sunday's Readings for Feb. 6, 2011 Jesus begins to instruct the disciples about how to be his followers. Our Discussion Questions will guide your Online Sunday Bible Study sessions with your family, friends and church groups.

To Be Salt and Light

"You are the salt of the earth." Often quoted, seldom understood. Father Cusick asks us, do we understand what it means for our relationship with Christ? Check that the Nazarene did not say we should become the salt of the earth, but that we are the salt of the earth. Fr. James Gilhooley said Jesus wasn't giving us a locker room pep talk. He was telling us the way He wanted to find us daily.

"You are the light of the world." We are people who have been enlightened by Christ. Fr. Orlando Sapuay, M.S. points out that we are not the light. It is God’s light shining through us. Fr. Campion P. Gavaler, O.S.B. explains further that it is only because we - through the gift of the Spirit - become one with Christ that we can be the light of the world, never by our own light alone.

We are called today to reveal the true wisdom of the Lord to the world. Fr. Joseph Pellegrino tells us that this wisdom is not based on great intellects, but on the power of God.

The Description of a True Disciple

Now Jesus moves on to the description of a true disciple. Fr. Alex McAllister SDS tells us that Jesus is less worried about the details of what we do but much more about who we are. Jesus goes to the root motivations of our behaviour. With Jesus it is not doing, it is being that counts. He is most interested in character not just in mere actions.

The good works of the open-handed shine forth, Fr. Thomas Rosica, CSB explains, so that people might praise the Father for the holiness they glimpse in His creatures. And when Jesus speaks about "good deeds," Fr. Phil Bloom says the word is "kalos" - a goodness that is beautiful. Jesus is saying that when people see our good deeds they should give glory to God.

Jesus, in effect, says be what you are. Fr. John Foley, S. J. clarifies that this means if you are salt then don’t lose your flavor of salt. If you are a lamp then don’t put a basket over yourself so no one can see your light. Give light. Give savor. To hide our light serves no one. When God gives us a gift, God expects a certain return. To hide our talents, Fr. Ron Rolheiser tells us, is perilous to self and not very pleasing to the one who gave those gifts.

This is not to say that one must be an extrovert, entertainer, or brilliant lecturer to be a successful Christian. It’s not about personality. It’s about heart. Marcellino D'Ambrosio, Ph.D. says it’s about approaching your Christian life with passion rather than with a yawn.

Here’s a test for you. Answer honestly. Are you excited about prayer, or is it a chore? When you have extra time and money, how much of it do you ever invest it in spiritual growth or apostolic service? Are you “too busy” to get to confession regularly, attend a parish mission, or get involved in serving the needy? And finally, if it were a crime to be a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you?

About Confession

The reality in our parish life is that there are many among our parishioners who come to our churches each Sunday - but have not been to Confession in years! Fr. John Zuhlsdorf answers two letters from a couple of readers. One says: "I haven’t been to confession for 10 years! I don’t know what to do!" The other is a convert from Protestantism who asks: "How to confess well? I worry I am not doing a good enough job of it." The good father offers worthwhile pastoral guidance to both inquirers.

And here's where prayer meets technology. A new Confession application for the iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch is encouraging sacramental life through technology. Bishop Kevin Rhodes gave the first known imprimatur for this type of resource. The program, "Confession: A Roman Catholic App," was developed as an aid "for those who frequent the sacrament and those who wish to return."

Catholic Life

As an Evangelical Protestant, Steve Ray thought he could ignore the creeds and councils of our Mother, the Church. He was sadly mistaken. He now understands that Jesus requires us to listen to His Church, the Church to which he gave the authority to bind and to loose (Mt 16:19; 18:17)—the Catholic Church, which is the pillar and foundation of the truth (1 Tim 3:15). This week, Steve offers a historical explanation of the word "Catholic."

And here's another interesting scenario. When having a conversation with someone who is ignorant or hostile to Catholic teaching, what's the best way to deal with them? A reasoned, gentle defense is most effective. Here's a great article that explains how Catholics can plant the seeds of faith with strangers.

And now this. Imagine a Catholic and a Protestant were planning to marry. And the Protestant decides to convert! When one partner converts, it brings the faith back home for the longtime Catholic spouse. That’s what Jackie San Nicolas discovered when her longtime boyfriend Matt Covington decided to become a Catholic before their wedding. Lots of great insight - and from the Catholic partner's point of view!

Kneeling, Liturgical Aberrations & Superstition

Now here's one question that's long been begging for an answer: "Am I forbidden to kneel after the Agnus Dei?" If the parish priest instructs the faithful to remain standing, would it be wrong to kneel and disobey the priests? With an eye on the GIRM (the Church's General Instruction on the Roman Missal), Fr. John Zuhlsdorf offers some measured and straight-forward advice.

And some food for thought about how to approach priests concerning liturgical aberrations. Do keep these in mind. Priests are people too, and so are prone not only to sin, but to weakness, forgetfulness, mistakes, and even fatigue. Catholics are urged to give the priest the benefit of the doubt in many situations - specially at Mass - where something out of character happens. Mistakes happen.

Finally, a word about Superstition and the Supernatural. Fr. Longenecker explores the thin line that often separates Catholic devotion and superstition. He explains that the devotions of the Church provide a way to draw closer to Christ. But what he is opposed to is their unthinking practice, and the tendency for them to drift into superstition--the tendency to use the devotions of the Church not to conform ourselves to the Divine Will, but to get God to do what we want.

Prayer & Silence in the Heart

Judith Costello was reading an old text that recommends “silence in the heart.” Saint Diadochus of Photice, a bishop of the fifth century, said our mind should be like still waters. Then we can see the pollutants (temptations) and recognize “the fish” (grace). It sounds wonderful. Such great advice. But it seems impossible to achieve in this modern era, especially in busy houses with children. How is this possible? Judith offers her thoughts from her blog "Mysteries of Parenting."

And from the Vatican, the pope seems to chime in with Judith. Pope Benedict XVI said this week that prayer is essential for grasping life’s meaning. People don’t really know who they are or what their life’s purpose is unless they pray regularly, he added.

Super Bowl Sunday

If the Super Bowl is anything like the National Football Conference championship game, Norbertine Father Jim Baraniak said he expected an overflow crowd. However, the Packers' Catholic chaplain wasn't referring to the attendance at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas. But rather to the Mass to be celebrated before the big game on Feb. 6. He expects a record Super Bowl Mass crowd.

To cap this week off, how would you like to turn your cheap $10 flashlight into a $95 flashlight in a few short steps? This was too good for us to pass up. DIY guru Kip Kay shows you how to turn a cheap plastic flashlight into an incredibly bright flashlight, using only a power drill and a new bulb and batteries. We'll just let the video tell the story.

Another eventful week in our Catholic world. Have a great and blessed new week.

Keep the Faith. Peace.

Wally Arida
Publisher & Editor in chief



BURNING QUESTION: What commandments require restitution?
FEATURED BLOG: Superstition and the Supernatural
VOCATION NEWS: Joy in one's vocation
PASTORAL HISPANA: Somos sal de la tierra y luz del mundo

Post a comment below.
Follow us on Twitter
Click Here to receive a FREE SUBSCRIPTION to this weekly email

"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."

If the sermon on the mount is a summary of all Christian doctrine, the beatitudes are a summary of the Sermon on the mount. In the Sunday Readings for Jan. 30, 2011 then, if anywhere, we have the essence of the Gospel. Our Discussion Questions will guide your Online Sunday Bible Study sessions with your family, friends and church groups.

We call it the Sermon on the Mount, a mount is just a sort of small hill or hummock; just high enough so that Jesus could be heard by the assembled company. But we immediately recognise that it is meant to be a parallel with Moses when he came down the mountain with the tablets of stone on which were engraved the ten commandments.

The Beatitudes & Ten Commandments

There was Moses the fierce old man trying to hold his people together as a cohesive group. Here is Jesus who respects the individuality of each human being and who builds up his followers with extraordinary gentleness and patience.There were the tablets of the law, full of do's and don'ts and with the fear of punishment behind them. Here are the Beatitudes which bring untold blessings on those who are embraced by them.

Fr. Orlando Sapuay, M.S. goes on to explain that the ten commandments are basic rules of morality. But the beatitudes are a measure of how far beyond this the gospel calls us. The morality of the ten commandments is a morality that can be measured. The morality of the Beatitudes is harder to quantify; How poor in the spirit are you? How meek, gentle, merciful…?

To be a Christian therefore is not to be a follower of a set of rules, Fr. Alex McAllister points out. It is to be born again, to live a new life. It is to turn around and see things from a totally different perspective. The Beatitudes are a privileged glimpse at the world through the eyes of God. And its spinal cord is love. This is our love of God as well as belief in His love for us. And, Fr. James Gilhooley adds, this love also includes love of neighbor.

It is this challenge that sets Jesus’ moral teaching apart from others and gives it its unique character—and its real teeth. Fr. Ron Rolheiser isolates it for us. If the Gospel of Matthew, or perhaps the New Testament as a whole, gives us a litmus test for discipleship, this might be its one-line formulation: Can you love and forgive an enemy?

As the Church continues her pilgrim journey throughout history, we need a vision to sustain us and give us hope in the midst of our shadows, ambiguities and sins, our joys and hopes and victories. Fr. Thomas Rosica, CSB says that biblical vision is found in the great Christian charter. And Father Cusick says Christ teaches us about holiness in the "Beatitudes" of Matthew.

Poverty and the Beatitudes

Jesus makes the daring statement that the downtrodden ones should in fact be declared blessed, i.e. fortunate. Dr. Marcellino D'Ambrosio's inquiring mind asks: Is Jesus endorsing indigence? What could possibly justify such a radical and apparently nonsensical conclusion?

Fr. Demetrius R. Dumm, O.S.B. explains that Jesus certainly does not intend to bless powerlessness as such. However, He does affirm the blessedness of those who, because they are powerless, are saved from the illusion that worldly power can in fact give them (and us) us the only truly important and lasting gifts, such as, love, happiness and life itself. And, Fr. John Foley, S. J. adds, it is also easy to see the blessedness of the types He mentions: peacemakers, mercy givers, and fairness seekers.

Fr. Joseph Pellegrino reminds us how Jesus wept over Jerusalem because he could see the destruction the actions of the people were bringing on themselves. We, in the Church today, also weep for our country over those areas that are leading the country to moral decay. And we Christians are required to speak out. Jesus came to keep justice and mercy, truth and peace together. He came to save us. And through the Beatitudes, Fr. Phil Bloom explains, we are able to see who Jesus is and how - in Him - we can have justice with mercy, truth that leads to peace.

Imagine Jesus at the Mount delivering his sermon. When he finished, do you think the people applauded? Now imagine yourself at church and your pastor just delivered a really moving sermon. Will you applaud after his homily? Share your thoughts with us.

Discovering the Faith

Does the Catholic Church demand that all her followers march along in lockstep formation in a form of unthinking blind obedience? Of course that is the charge, not only from non-Catholics but also from 'dissenting' Catholics. Fr Longenecker always found it curious when people say, "Oh, how nice for you! Now that you're a Catholic you won't have to think anymore." The good father stimulates discussion with a piece he calls "Dissent or Discovery?"

For the past three weeks, I've been receiving friendly weekly visits from a trio of well-intentioned door-to-door missionaries from the Jehovah's Witnesses. They come to talk about their faith and - without fail - we always end up talking about my Catholic faith. I admit I have come to enjoy these visits and I actually look forward to them because with each visit I see a flame of curiosity flicker inside each of them.

This past Wednesday, me and my new JW friends talked about Jesus as the Son of God. And not knowing anything about their faith, I learned they do not believe Jesus is God. Nor do they believe in the Holy Trinity. I explained that our creed tells us that Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, is “eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one Being with the Father.” But let me bring in Mark Shea who explains how the very same question nearly tore the fourth century Church apart.

The other topic me and my Jehovah's Winesses friends are still chewing on is the Mystery of Transubstantiation. The Catholic doctrine of the Eucharist is a real stumbling block Protestants who are seriously considering Catholicism. Francis J. Beckwith explains that it was for him too, until he explored the subject, historically and scripturally. He presents a summary of his deliberations that moved his belief in the Holy Eucharist from a Stumbling Block to Cornerstone. I promise to have more stories for you next week about my newly-found JW friends - if they come around again as they promised.

Now here's one of the most common question that the leaders in your parish have frequently asked, "How can we get young people more involved in the church?" This question doesn't have a one-size-fits-all answer. But Tony Rossi features two guests he recently and talks about the suggestions they've seen work.

Plus here's some really surprising news! After a 60-year lull, New York City is experiencing a revival of religious fervor. This is being reported in a recent study released by the Manhattan-based Values Research Institute. And that's all good.

St. Paul, Social Networking and More

On the 25th of January, the church celebrated the great feast of the conversion of St. Paul. Fr. Robert Barron talks to us and explains that this celebration provides the occasion for thinking about who we are as followers of Jesus Christ.

This week from the Vatican, Pope Benedict talked about Ecumenism. He said that although Christians are still far from the unity that Jesus prayed for at the Last Supper, resignation and pessimism are signs of a lack of trust in the Holy Spirit's power. Never underestimate the power of the Holy Spirit, he urges.

And in keeping with the Vatican's longtime custom on the feast this week of the patron of journalists, St Francis de Sales, we saw the release of the papal message for the 45th World Communications Day, this year's focusing on "Truth, Proclamation and Authenticity of Life in the Digital Age." Rocco Palmo lovingly refers to it as "The Social Network," B16 Edition. In this message, the pope said the popularity of facebookers and social networking Internet sites reflects the human desire for relationships and meaning, which is a desire that is fully met with the truth of Christ.

March for Life Monday

On January 24, the 38th anniversary of the Supreme Court decision that legalized abortion (Roe v. Wade), hundreds of thousands - clerics and young people - celebrated Mass before participating in the annual anti-abortion march known as the March for Life. In Washington DC, and in scenes duplicated in cities across the US, arenas were packed with thousands of swaying, praying teenagers, many wearing sweat shirts from the Catholic schools they attend or knit hats that said "We believe" or "March for Life."

This comes on the heels of a report from the pro-abortion rights Alan Guttmacher Institute reports that there have been nearly 50 million abortions performed since 1973, the year the Supreme Court issued the Roe v. Wade decision ushering in legal abortion nationwide. According to Guttmacher, 35 percent of all U.S. women will have had an abortion by age 45.

Thus rightly, The U.S. bishops informed Congress this week that they are backing three bills before the House of Representatives that seek to prevent tax dollars from being used to fund abortions, and to protect the consciences of health care providers.

Purpose, The Rite & Mysteries of Parenting

From her newest post in her blog Mysteries of parenting, Judith Costello talks about the pending beatification of John Paul II and reflects on how it fills a glaring void today in our young people's MTV-filled lives for models of virtue and sacrifice. It is with great joy , she says, that we should celebrate the news that Pope John Paul II will be beatified in May! He is a true modern hero.

And here's a very very short one from Bo Sanchez. He announces that four days ago he lost his cell phone. So what, you might ask? It seems that from this seemingly insignificant accident, a valuable lesson came upon Bo: Everything Has A Purpose. Read on.

Finally, I assume you've seen its movie trailers during the past weeks on TV. This weekend marks the opening of director Mikael Hafstrom’s “The Rite”, based on journalist Matt Baglio’s 2009 book “The Rite: the Making of a Modern Exorcist.” Sr. Rose Pacatte, FSP offers her movie review from a Catholic Communicator's point of view: The devil is back and he’s still mad.

Another eventful week in our Catholic World. Have a great and blessed new week.

Keep the Faith. Peace.

Wally Arida
Publisher & Editor in chief



BURNING QUESTION: Would you applaud after the homily?
FEATURED BLOG: Dissent or Discovery PASTORAL HISPANA: La verdadera felicidad
Post a comment below.
Follow us on Twitter
Click Here to receive a FREE SUBSCRIPTION to this weekly email
--

"Behold, the Lamb of God"

The poinsettias are gone, the lights are down, the Christmas season is over. Now we move on with the very beginning of Jesus’ public life, usually referred to as his ministry. We come upon John the Baptist seeing Jesus and pointing to him, “Behold the Lamb of God.” Our Discussion Questions for January 16, 2011, the Second Sunday in Ordinary Time, will guide your Online Sunday Bible Study sessions with your family, friends and church groups.

These verses are the climactic conclusion of the prologue to the gospel according to John (1: 1-34). In the prologue John establishes the basic themes that will unfold in the ensuing drama of his gospel: Jesus, the Word from the beginning lives with God, is God. The Word became human and made his dwelling in our world of sin; those who accept Jesus become children of God and are at home in God.

Behold the Lamb of God

“Lamb of God.” We use that term so often, that it is easy for us to overlook the deep theology and the tremendous love of our God contained in his sending his Son to be the Lamb.

Fr. Thomas Rosica, CSB explains that lambs suffer violence; they do not inflict it. Christ, as the victim who reveals God's love for us, is often symbolized by a lamb. When Peter is entrusted with the flock of the Lord, Peter, he is told to "feed" his sheep and lambs. Jesus sends his followers out into the world with no weapons, no money, no power - "like sheep among wolves."

If you want to go further, consider this: a scholar named Joachim Jeremias held that the original word for “lamb” in Aramaic (the language Jesus spoke) was “talyã’,” which meant not only “lamb” but also “slave” or “servant.” The Baptist may have intended both meanings, “Behold the Lamb of God,” but also, “Behold the servant of God.” If so, his words would be a direct quote of words from the First Reading for Sunday.

In this short Gospel of five verses, Fr. James Gilhooley says John e-mails us the message that Jesus is in this struggle for the long haul. He is going to stay around to hold us up and, if necessary, pick up the pieces.If we deny sin, we have no place for Jesus. But if we honestly recognize sin, Fr. Phil Bloom reminds us, we open ourselves to Jesus.

John the Baptist looked to Jesus and said, “There is the Lamb of God.” Fr. Joseph Pellegrino tells us that we have been called to do the same. This message is not addressed to Priests and Levites or even to disciples. Fr. Alex McAllister SDS says it is addressed to the whole of humanity because Christ’s coming into the world is of the greatest possible significance for the entire human race.

When the Holy Spirit Comes Down

What does it mean to see the Spirit come down on someone and remain? Abbot Philip Lawrence, OSB tells us that there are lots of ways in which the Spirit can come down on a person. And we must keep our eyes and our, hearts open. Each of us, like Jesus, needs to have enough personal intimacy with God to recognize, more precisely, that to which we are called. Fr. Ron Rolheiser explains this in detail.

Our belief that the same Spirit who guided Jesus also guides us has profound implications for defining the meaning of human existence. Fr. Campion P. Gavaler, O.S.B. explains that if we are transparent to the divine life, our words and actions become signs of God's loving presence in the world. And as this joy settles, college student Amy Winkler hears the Readings for Sunday as a call to service, to a way of life in which we let the light of Christ shine in our lives.

Ans so today, on this second Sunday in Ordinary Time, may our own hearts be open to see the glory of God at work in one another and to testify to God's loving presence.

Agnus Dei - Christ Truly Present in the Eucharist

As John hailed the Son of God made man in verse 29 of today’s Gospel , so we too - in the Mass after the consecration - worship the "Lamb of God." "Behold the Lamb of God! Behold him who takes away the sin of the world; blessed are those who are called to the supper of the Lamb." As we behold Christ truly present in the Eucharist, Father Cusick reminds us, we proclaim Him the Messiah with the same awe and love with which St. John uttered his proclamation as recorded in our Gospel today.

But quite often, just before communion when we recite the “Lamb of God” instead of singing it, the sad result frequently is “LammaGod-youtakeawaythesinsoftheworld--havemercyonus” One word, often void of meaning. Fr. John Foley says once you have imaged the meaning, you will crave slowing it down!

When we say or sing, “Lamb of God” we are remembering what Jesus did for us and what he has empowered us to do for others. We are remembering his sacrifice to make God’s love real on earth. We are reminding ourselves that joining Jesus in sacrificial love is the only way we can be his followers.

Liturgical Church or Bible Church?

The Protestant Church is all about the Bible; the Catholic Church is all about the Sacraments. Right? Not exactly. When it comes to personal Bible reading, Protestants often put Catholics to shame. But as far as Sunday worship goes, it is hard to find a more biblical service than the Mass. Dr. Marcellino D'Ambrosio points out that the Readings are awesome enough, but even the prayers of the Mass are chock full of Scripture.

The past 20 years or so have seen an explosion of conversions from Protestantism to Catholicism. During that time, a certain common narrative seems to be associated with these conversions. On the other hand, there has also been an even greater exodus out of the Catholic Church over the past 40 years. Some of that is people leaving Christianity altogether, but much of it is Catholics becoming Evangelical. Eric Sammons - a convert to Catholicism himself - looks at the the narrative for that type of conversion and explains the differences.

In last week's Burning Question, we had put up a question to the community about why it is imperative for parents to have their children baptized as infants. And an interesting exchange about Infant Baptism and the Sacraments materialized between a Protestant reader named Gary and our Theology editor Paul Dion, STL. Follow the lively discussion here.

And two weeks ago at the Consumer Electronics Show held in Las Vegas, the big buzz was for tablet computers. What we found fascinating was comparing the sales pitch for these new tablets with the one given by Apple CEO Steve Jobs last year when he announced the iPad. Here's what every Catholic can learn from Steve Jobs.

New US Lectionary & More

The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has announced it has canonically approved the publication of New American Bible Revised Edition. The forthcoming fourth edition, according to the USCCB, aims at making use of the best manuscript traditions available, translating as accurately as possible, and rendering the result in good contemporary English. Check it out here.

From the Vatican, the Pope last week baptized 21 Infants and noted the challenges facing parents. Benedict XVI highlighted that the social context that Christian families face today demands collaboration from the Christian community and increasing support from parishes. He also said that there is "urgent need" for Christians to "proclaim the Gospel with their life." And noting how holiness helps in understanding the mysteries of the faith, the Pope explained Purgatory using as an example the insights gleaned by St. Catherine of Genoa.

A Brutal Weekend - the AZ Shooting & More

Every now and then the Lord just has you look at something in depth and experience it to the top. It was that sort of weekend for Msgr. Charles Pope and the Lord was clear that he wanted him to meditate deeply and experience personally the tragedy of the taking of human life. His lesson came in three stages, bannered by the senseless shooting in Tucson, AZ last Sunday.

From Denver, CA, Archbishop Charles Chaput expressed anguish over the recent Arizona shooting that left 6 dead and over a dozen wounded, noting particularly the life and deep Catholic faith of victim Judge John Roll.

Paul Dion, STL, on the other hand, offers a reflection on the immorality that can come with the reckless exercise of our right to free speech. In his opinion piece "Scandal of the Weak," He opines that no one is free to inundate the weak with speech that can influence them and cause them to act in a nefarious way. Those who persist in using speech with violent pictures cannot exculpate themselves from the effects of what they have put out into the community atmosphere under the guise of freedom of speech.

YouTube Celeb "Golden Voice" Ted Williams

His YouTube video has reportedly received more hits than Susan Boyle's initial viral video. Ted Williams was a homeless Ohio man with a golden radio voice. He had lived a seemingly hopeless life of homelessness, drugs and alcohol. And then his YouTube video went viral-crazy. Now he faces new opportunities to become a sports announcer, maybe with the Cleveland Cavaliers. Through it all, the homeless man credits God for for his new-found YouTube fame and his golden voice.

But the real hero of this story is the woman he left behind. Patricia Kirtley raised four daughters alone after Williams split 23 years ago and dove down the rabbit hole of drugs. Not only that, Kirtley took in the baby boy the radioman had with another woman and raised him as her own. Oh, and by the way, she's partially blind.

Lastly, Judith Costello gives us the latest installment to her blog "Mysteries of Parenting." In "Elevating teh Ordinary," she reflectas on simple words and ordinary gestures. Yet, these four moments in time were transformative. They reminded her that God can take the smallest offering we might make and turn it into something miraculous.

Another eventful week in our Catholic World. Have a blessed new week.

Keep the Faith. Peace.

Wally Arida
Publisher & Editor in chief





BQ: What bible verse anchors your personal spiritual life?
Featured Blog: Following Jesus' Behavior is Biblical Too, Ya Know!
Pastoral Hispana: Jesus nos invita a dar testimonio
Post a comment below.
Follow us on Twitter
Click Here to receive a FREE SUBSCRIPTION to this weekly email
--

CATHOLIC LIVING TODAY "Out of Egypt I called my son"

The first Sunday after Christmas is always dedicated to the Holy Family. This year it comes the very next day after Christmas Day and so perhaps we see even more clearly the link between the two celebrations. Our Discussion Questions for December 26, 2010 will guide your Online Sunday Bible Study sessions with your family, friends and church groups.

The Message of Christmas Day

The message of Christmas takes our breath away every year and continues to stagger the imagination: the Second Person of the Blessed Trinity, the only begotten Son of the Father, the eternal Word, our Creator, wills to clothe himself in our nature, and to become man, our brother, one of us! God himself lies in the manger, completely human, completely divine. It is an awesome reality!

Thomas Rosica, CSB says this Christmas message announces a new divine presence among us. We live in God's heart, and Christmas visibly brought among us the Son of God who cares infinitely for each of us. God did not want to live that love at a distance. But this transformation of the world and of us is not magic. It cannot happen unless we cooperate with the Word of God. You and I, Abbot Philip Lawrence, OSB reminds us, must not only listen to this Word and celebrate the birth of the Word, we must allow that Word to transform us.

Yes, our hearts call out for God - but only because he calls out for us. Fr. Phil Bloom points out that Christmas is God coming to humanity. Christmas is God becoming man so he can call us to him. Father Cusick rounds things up by giving us the customary reading for Christmas from the Roman Martyrology, often proclaimed prior to the celebration of Christmas Mass at Midnight.

Feast of the Holy Family

The Sunday gospel continues the story of the wise men from the east, who under divine guidance to pay homage to the child Jesus. Then Joseph is warned by an angel to take Mary and Jesus to Egypt because Herod plans to kill the child. The family will remain there until the Lord calls his son out of Egypt just as the people of Israel were once called out. After returning to Israel, Joseph settles his family in Nazareth.

Matthew comments that all these things are not by chance, but in fulfillment of divine providence. What we have here, Fr. Alex McAllister SDS points out, is not just a pious story about Jesus being taken to safety and returned in due time to live in a nondescript village in Palestine until he is ready to make his mission known. What we actually have is an account of a series of events which are in fact a revelation of the identity of Jesus.

Fr. Campion P. Gavaler, O.S.B. further tells us that this Sunday gospel - even if we should be close to despair - proclaims the good news: God is with us. Every moment, every event of history, even its evil dimension, is somehow transformed by God's powerful and loving care to become a part of the divine plan.

Fr. Ron Rolheiser says this story is a warning to us all against believing that we are self-sufficient, that we can have community and family on our own terms, and that we can have God without dealing with each other. Hence the truly human, genuinely Christian priority is not so much what others can do for me but rather what I can do for others. Fr. Thomas Rosica, CSB says preoccupation with self must be set aside as we cast ourselves in the role of servant rather than served. Serving and selflessness are at the core of authentic family life.

The Holy Family is the Ideal Family

If you are part of a family, you too must take great care today. The family unit is in peril, chased down and slain by the Herods of modern culture. On this, the feast of the Holy Family, it makes sense to ask: what makes a man a real man, what makes a woman a real woman? And we can add, what makes a child, a real child? Fr. Joseph Pellegrino states that the answers are found if we look at the Holy Family.

We all want to be part of the great web of love that is God’s presence on earth. Fr. John Foley, S. J. says it is played out in the foibles and fun of ordinary family life. God is there. College student Lauren Butler points out that Joseph, Mary and baby Jesus set an example for us in the way we are to gather as a family who loves and praises God.

Today, therefore, we ask the Lord to help husbands be real men, men who protect, provide and unite their families to God. We pray that wives be real women, women who nurture, sacrifice and are the heart of their families. And we pray that young people may take the steps they need to take away from self absorption and into the reality of Christian life so that when their time comes, they may form Holy Families, families that raise children of God.

Do we really need Christmas?

Is Christmas becoming obsolete? Here are a few illustrations. In some places, Christmas midnight mass is becoming too dangerous -- or too disruptive. Is this a tradition that is about to disappear? Bishop Kevin Farrell of Dallas laments how the success of Christmas is now measured by sales figures from retail stores and online. The Christmas season no longer begins with the First Sunday of Advent, it begins with Black Friday. So, do we really need Christmas? The good bishop says the answer is Yes.

Christmas is much more than the season of Santa Claus and sugar plums. Pope Benedict reminds us that Christmas is not a fairy tale for children. It is God's answer to mankind's yearning for peace, says Benedict XVI. He calls all the faithful to "let ourselves be amazed" by the "Star that inundated the universe with joy." Let us be amazed, he exhorts us, and purify our lives of everything that is contrary to Jesus Christ.

The Deeper Meaning of Christmas

There are many paradoxes and seeming impossibilities in the incarnation. As mysteries they cannot be fully solved, so they claim our reverence. We genuflected in the past, and we bow today at the mention of the incarnation in the creed for it is a deep mystery. As we approach Christmas, Msgr. Charles Pope offers us a list of some of the paradoxes of Christmas. Try and spend a moment to reflect upon each one of them.

“Peace on Earth, Good will towards men.” True peace can never be forged by steel, Dr. Marcellino D'Ambrosio explains, but only by love. It is the humble babe in the manger, not Caesar in his chariot, who is the real prince of peace.

Giving Gifts & Celebrations

So what do we do with America’s gift-giving extravaganza at Christmas? What is your gifting philosophy. Is it a present a gift or is it a donation?

It is after all It’s Jesus’ birthday. But the presents under the tree are the real focus, especially for the kids. The first is unwrapped and then another and another, faster and faster. It resembles a school of sharks going into a feeding frenzy. Almost instantly the thrill is gone. Dr. Marcellino D'Ambrosio suggests that we should set rules to make them more meaningful. He calls it the Catholic approach to gift-giving.

But Fr. Peter deSousa offers an alternative approach. Make this Christmas a time of celebrating our love as a family and sharing that love with some who are lonely, suffering or in need. What are we willing to sacrifice this Christmas in our family so that we may reach out to our spouse, children, parents, siblings, relatives, neighbors and those who serve us and help us?

And what about that tree? What's the point of a Christmas tree? Does it really have anything to do with Christmas? Pope Benedicts explains, "With its loftiness, its green [color] and the lights in its branches, the Christmas tree is a symbol of life that points to the mystery of Christmas Eve." The Pope says our traditional tree is a symbol of life and hope.

A Christmas Story at the Mall & More

Here's one that's been making the rounds since the early days of the internet. And it still moves me every time I read it. I know this story of the child and the shopping mall Santa Claus who played Christmas angel will touch your heart as well. Enjoy it - again and again.

'Do You Hear What I Hear?' It's a song you've probably heard many times throughout this Christmas season. Many people mistakenly assume this Christmas classic has been around for years and that it is of European origin. But it was written in 1962 during the Cuban Missile Crisis as a powerful plea for peace by a man who had experienced the horrors of war. The song’s message of peace is as desperately needed today as it was then. Here is a live version by Carrie Underwood.

And then we bring your Judith costello's latest article, "The Handmaid’s Story." St. Bernard once wrote a homily as if he were talking to Mary who had just heard from the angel Gabriel. The gospel says, “Mary was greatly troubled by his words (of praise for her.)” Here is Judith's version. And she starts with "Dear Mary."

Favorite Christmas Movies

There’s nothing quite like this wonderful time of year to gather round with the family and sit by the warming roar of a television set. Christmas has inspired some of the finest cinematic classics – as well as things like Jingle All the Way. So as my Christmas treat to you all, here’s Paul Zummo's list of the five best Christmas movies of all-time.

And of course there is no more beloved Christmastime flick than the manly classic, Frank Capra’s It’s a Wonderful Life. "Manly” is not a word typically associated with the film, especially given the fact that more than one man will find himself teary eyed and avoiding eye contact with his wife at its conclusion. But the film has a good deal to teach us about being a man, the right kind of man. So in the spirit of quality Christmas movies, I offer you men a quick guide to manliness, as taught by It’s a Wonderful Life.

Another eventful week in our Catholic world. Have a merry Chruistmas. Happy birthday, Jesus.

Keep the Faith. Peace.

Wally Arida
Publisher & Editor in chief





Burning Question: Should Catholics be offended by the term "Xmas?"
Featured Blog: Lessons in Manliness from It’s a Wonderful Life
Pastoral Hispana: La Sagrada Familia es ejemplo de unidad, amor y reconciliacion



Post a comment below.
Follow us on Twitter
Click Here to receive a FREE SUBSCRIPTION to this weekly email