"Whoever has ears ought to hear."

This Sunday's Parable of the Sower for July 10, 2011 - 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time - is plain. The seed sown is the word of God. The sower is our Lord Jesus Christ, by himself, or by his ministers. Our Discussion Questions will guide your Sunday Bible Study sessions with family, friends and church groups.

To respond to this parable adequately, we must view it from two different angles. The first is to look at the story as if we are the seed. On the other hand, we can look at the parable as if we were the farmer. Dr. Marcellino D'Ambrosio tells us that as seed, our job is to get busy growing. As farmers, our job is to get busy sowing.

Hearing God’s Word

In no other instance does Jesus take such great pain to explain a parable more than in this one. Much of this story is about how many of us for various reasons do not receive what God wants to plant within us and then bring to fruition. And what God is planting is His word. Fr. Orlando Sapuay, M.S. explains that the sense of hearing cannot be better employed than in hearing God's word. He urges us to look to ourselves that we may know what sort of hearers we are.

Abbot Philip Lawrence, OSB offers this as the positive spiritual teaching of Sunday's readings - we must allow God to plant the rich soil within us. He explains that we are not capable on our own but we know with certitude that God wants the best for us and so God wants us to be rich soil. To Fr. Charles Irvin, its important message is Jesus' promise that if we respond to and receive His gifts, His plantings, they will achieve their purpose and return yields in fantastic results.

Trusting in the Abundance of God

Too often this parable has been used to emphasize what happens to the seed -- carried away by the devil, dying from a lack of roots, choked by the cares and wealth and pleasures of this life. But how often have we considered the lavishness and generosity of God -- throwing the seed in every direction? God, from everything we can see, is so rich in love and mercy that He can afford to be wasteful, over-generous, and non-discriminating beyond our imaginations.

Jesus invites us to trust God. That's the invitation: To have a sense of God's abundance so as to risk always a bigger heart and generosity beyond the instinctual fear that has us believe that, because things seem scarce, we need to be more calculating. So must we pretend to be rich soil, though we know our shallowness? Fr. John Foley, S. J. says No. we must must fully be ourselves and allow God to do the rest.

In order therefore to be generous and big-hearted, Fr. Ron Rolheiser tells us, we have to first trust in God's abundance and generosity. And so while we persevere through the storms of life, college student Catherine Stallings reminds us never to forget that our ultimate goal is Heaven.

Responding to God's Word

In Sunday's gospel according to St. Matthew, Father Cusick explains, our Lord recommends that we study and understand our faith, that we persevere in the times we've lost enthusiasm and that we practice detachment from the things of this world in preference to the gospel. The Word of God is spoken to us and we receive it and we make it welcome. It grows in us and is reflected in the way we live our lives.

But that is not all. Because we then open our mouths and speak the very same words. The task of the Christian is great but not burdensome because proclaiming the Word of God is our greatest privilege, our highest joy. Fr. Joseph Pellegrino tells us that we can be the good soil that returns to the Lord fruit beyond our imagination, but not beyond His imagination.

This week may the Word take root in our lives, Fr. Thomas Rosica, CSB prays. If we allow it to penetrate beneath the surface, we will begin to find ourselves, and find the areas of ourselves which seemed lost or broken, abandoned or forgotten, "unplugged" or "turned off" to the transforming power of God.

To be "humble of heart"

For many of us, the tendency to be stiff-necked to God's will is gradually softened by the power of grace, the medicine of the sacraments, instruction by God’s Word, and the humility that can come from these. But for some, however, Msgr. Charles Pope says the stubbornness never abates. In fact it grows even stronger as a descent into pride, and an increasing hard-heartedness sets up.

Stacy Trasancos, a convert from the Baptist church, offers herself as the perfect example of the lost and broken. Her life has been full of self-induced pain. She tells her story because as shameful as it is, it is real and needs to be told so others will know the dangers of life without a moral compass.

Indeed, it is much easier to be humble in word than humble of heart. In this regard, we turn to the writings of St. Benedict of Nursia who, in the seventh chapter of his Rule, establishes the twelve degrees of humility. Then we reproduce St. Thomas Aquinas' defense of the twelve degrees, recalling that the Angelic Doctor himself learned humility through his schooling under the Holy Rule as a boy.

Active Participation in the Mass

The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is a participation in the eternal liturgy of Heaven at which Christ is the celebrant. The priest, we know, signifies Christ and acts in the person of Christ. What do the laity signify? The Eastern Cherubikon, or Cherubic Hymn, describes the Catholic faithful as "mystically representing the Cherubim." Taylor Marshall offers a great piece on becoming active participants in the Mass. He says we have to be like Mary and the angels

It's easier said than done specially when you're parish is in a bit of a turmoil, like Rachel Balducci's. The parish is in the midst of another priest turnover. It's their third in five years. She offers great spiritualy in this article where she explains how this challenge portrays to his parish members what Catholicism is truly all about.

And by the way, we are reminded by Taylor Marshall that July is the month dedicated to the Precious Blood of Jesus. He says among devotions to the humanity of Christ (e.g., Divine Infancy, Sacred Heart), the Precious Blood of Jesus has the most biblical precedent since it is mentioned so frequently in the New Testament (over 75 times). Perhaps your family can include this Litany of the Precious Blood after your evening rosary this month of July.

Catholicism, Science & Magic

Is the classic definition of theology -- "the science of faith" -- actually a contradiction in itself? Does faith not cease to be faith when it becomes science? And does not science cease to be science when it is ordered or even subordinated to faith? Along this line, Pope Benedict reminded theologians gathered at the Vatican this week that God Isn't a Science Experiment. He also told a separate group that there is nothing magic in Christianity, no shortcuts, but God is patiently renewing humanity along the same path that Jesus followed. And still from the Vatican, it was announced this week that Pope Benedict will consecrate the youth to the Sacred Heart of Jesus during the prayer vigil at World Youth Day.

Here's an interesting question: Should Anointing of the Sick be given before surgery? No. Many of the Christian faithful (indeed, even many of the priests) are of the mistaken opinion that serious life-threatening surgery is, in itself, a cause for the administration of the sacrament of Anointing. Read the entire explanation here.

Marriage is a Vocation, not a Lifestyle

Once marriage was a vocation; now it is a lifestyle. As such, today it is little more than a legal sanctioning of two people’s sexual complementarity, usually involving an emotional bond, a general notion of physical exclusivity, financial intermingling, and the option of children. Gabriel Torretta explains the development of the Married Lifestyle and the role we played in making it such. While Anthony Buono asks whether unconditional love is realistic for Marriage? He anwers by explaining that it is indeed a popular notion that the love between a man and a woman should be unconditional. In fact, however, he says it’s humanly impossible to sustain such a situation. Sustaining such a situation would require God’s grace.

From Canada, their bishops came up with a much-needed pastoral letter that addresses same-sex attraction. Among other things, they explained that a human person is much more than just a sexual orientation or an identification with the homosexual or heterosexual lifestyle. Stressing the Catholic teaching that "every human person is a unique and irreplaceable gift created by our loving God," and must be treated with respect and dignity, the commission went on to clarify that it is the homosexual act, not the inclination, that is deemed immoral. Please take the time to read this and educate yourself regarding this issue that is a painful one among many Catholic families.

Summer for Kids & More

Got kids? Got summer? Got no do-re-mi? As it happens,Simcha Fisher is an expert in all three of these conditions. So, as the weeks of vacation spread out before us and she contemplates how much longer she can bear to listen to her sons doing what they think is an appropriate way to spend the day, she offers up this list of actual doable activities for the broke, low-energy parent with a houseful of restless kids of various ages. It's her Ten Cheap, Stupid Ideas For Summer With Kids.

And lastly, here's a technology video you must watch. The unbelievable 3D technology it demonstrates is a blast from the future. 3D printing is a form of additive manufacturing technology where a three dimensional object is created by laying down successive layers of materials. But enough with the boring technical mumbo jumbo. Just watch the video and be prepared to go "Wow!"

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

Keep the Faith. Peace.

Wally Arida
Publisher & Editor in chief

BURNING QUESTION: Is it Better to Pray or To Study the Faith?
FEATURED BLOG: A Person Is More Than a Sexual Orientation
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"Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations"

The Feast of the Ascension has got to be one of the most dramatic in the liturgical year. Not perhaps very dramatic in its liturgy which is the same as any other Sunday; but dramatic in what it is all about: the lifting up of the Risen Jesus to his place in heaven. Our Discussion Questions for June 5, 2011 will guide your Sunday Bible Study sessions with family, friends and church groups.

Your personal radar should be warning you that this Sunday you are walking into awesome country. For this is the only Gospel where the Teacher names Himself "Jesus Christ."

Jesus Ascends the Throne

This week the Church celebrates the Lord's triumphal entry into the heavenly Jerusalem, the true and eternal City of God. Marcellino D'Ambrosio, Ph.D. points out that the inhabitants of this city did not cry “hosanna” one day and “crucify him” the next. Suffering is over. Death has been defeated. There is nothing left for Christ but glory.

In the account given in the Acts of the Apostles he was literally lifted up from the earth to heaven. And we can imagine the extraordinary impact that this had on the disciples as he was lifted up right in front of them until a cloud took him from their sight. The mystery of saying goodbye is really the mystery of the Ascension. Fr. Ron Rolheiser says this is the most under-understood mystery both inside and outside of religion. Ascension is about going away so that our loved ones can fully receive our spirit. And this is something the apostles have accepted and believed. It is, Fr. John Foley, S.J. explains, the power of God’s love even amidst departures and loss.

Fr. Joseph Pellegrino says this last line in the Mathew's Gospel is really the theme of the entire Gospel, “Know that I am with you always.” Jesus' departure and ascension into heaven was both an end and a beginning for his disciples. While it was the end of Jesus' physical presence with his beloved disciples, it marked the beginning of Jesus' presence with them in a new way. Jesus promised that he would be with them always to the end of time.

“Whoever sees me sees the Father”

Fr. James Gilhooley says to know the only true God means much, much more than knowing Him with one's brainpan. It is to know Him with heart and the spirit. And it is in praying with the Spirit that we come to know more deeply that Jesus came into the world to manifest the glory of the Father's name through love, ultimately the act of love on the cross. Something about Jesus was so wide open to God that the two were completely at one. “Whoever sees me sees the Father,” he said. Fr. John Foley, S. J. says that is a very deep description of such love.

Fr. Campion P. Gavaler, O.S.B. tells us that to be a disciple in our world today means to manifest the same divine glory through love so that all may come to enjoy the gift of eternal life. So as we celebrate the Ascension - Jesus' entronement at the Father's right hand - Fr. Phil Bloom tells us we also say, "Long live Christ the King!"

Make Disciples of All Nations

Christ having completed his work on this earth returns to be with the Father. Fr. James Gilhooley explains that the work of salvation is then transferred from the direct initiative of Christ to the work of the Church in the world. This is the handover moment and it is completed by the Feast of Pentecost which marks the day when the Holy Spirit was poured out on the Apostles and the work of the Church really begins. This work is to proclaim the good news of salvation to all the world. Fr. Orlando, Sapuay, M.S. says the gospel is the power of God, the power to forgive sins, to heal, to deliver from evil and oppression, and to restore life.

But first, let us consider the reality of this small group of apostles and disciples commissioned on the mountain in Galilee. Could any group of people be more human, more ordinary, more dysfunctional, more unpromising? How much more obvious could human frailty be than in this group who, Fr. Thomas Rosica points out, would become the "pillars" of our Church!

As He ascends, Jesus tells the disciples to wait for this power He will send. But notice that he does not tell them to wait passively for the rapture. He does not instruct them to pour over Bible prophecies, debating about how and when he will return. In fact in Acts 1:11, after the Lord ascends out of their sight, the angels ask why the disciples just stand there, staring into space. The waiting is not to be a squandering of precious time. It is waiting for a purpose, implying that the disciples should be getting on with the job that Jesus has given them.

It is the same mission that our Lord passes on to us today. College student Danielle Stewart observes that although Jesus ascended, it does not mean that we are to stand idle. We have been mandated to evangelize, to spread the Gospel to all nations. Dr. Marcellino D'Ambrosio explains how we used to think that evangelization was something that happened in mission countries far away, carried out by priests and religious. But the Second Vatican Council told us that our own neighborhoods are mission territory, and that every single Catholic is called to be an evangelist.

The Holy Trinity, the Sacred Heart & Catholic Funerals

This Gospel story is a clear illustration of the mystery of the Holy Spirit. The notion is unfortunately widespread that the mystery of the Blessed Trinity is a mystery of mathematics, that is to say, of how one can equal three. In one of the clearest explanations of the Blessed Trinity ever written, Frank Sheed says the Trinity is three persons in one nature.

Now here's one deep theological question for your reflection - where is Jesus' body after the Ascension? Where is the physical body of Jesus? Must we believe that he is “up there” in space somewhere? Can his body be in heaven, if heaven is not “a physical place in the clouds?” It is quite an interesting discourse. And if you happen to turn to the Bible for the answer to this and other questions, we offer you a few simple dos and don’ts that will help you bring the Bible more clearly into your daily lives.

And have you noticed how it has become commonplace to turn funerals into casual canonizations? “Bob is in a better place,” we’re told, which can only mean Heaven. But because it is certain that the imperfect go through Purgatory before getting to Heaven, it is easy to see that casual canonizations are not at all compassionate, but are in fact very cruel. They deprive the faithful departed of many prayers and good works that could have helped them get through Purgatory sooner, and they encourage spiritual sloth in those present at the funeral.

Also, just a reminder that the month of June is traditionally dedicated to foster devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Fr. John Zuhlsdorf suggests you might give consideration to what you may do in your own devotional practices. Don’t be afraid to be pious.

Suffering & God's Providence

We are all struck by the fury and devastation caused by tornadoes in the Midwest this year. And we are left to wonder why and how God allows it. Msgr. Charles Pope offers a meditation on the mystery of God’s Providence.

When we're presented with a challenging circumstance, when the road gets a little bumpy and the things aren't going the way we wish they would, many of us clam up. Dwija Borobia shares her story. On the Friday before Mother's Day, her husband was laid off. She discusses how this life challenge taught her to trust God like a child and receive the peace of Christ.

For years Gary Zimak neglected to visit Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament even though the chapel was within walking distance of his house. But now he find himself looking forward to visiting Him each week for adoration. In fact, he often stops to say “hi” for a few minutes on the way home from work. "I Finally Get It!" he exclaims as he talks about how peaceful and blessed he feels to be in the presence of Our Lord.

From the Vatican, Pope Benedict points to Moses as a model of intercessory prayer. Speaking at the June 1 general audience, he said intercessory prayer helps us to grow in deeper knowledge of God and his mercy and makes us more capable of loving others in a self-sacrificial way.

Love, Parenting & Nip/Tuck & the NBA Finals

Here's one for the young adults and teens in our audience. Ever heard of the phrase, "Love at First Sight?" Young Catholic adult Jerome Placido says he doesn't believe in it. Talking about the way he is going about finding "the one," the idea of "Love at First Sight" isn't an option. He says it's more like "Love before first sight."

And here's one for parents. Perhaps the timing is right that today, midway between Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, we say few kind words on behalf of the sort of parents many of us either are or once were — parents, that is, who are not Wonder Mom and Super Dad but only good enough. Here's a guide to 'good enough' parenting.

Nip/Tuck/Sin? Simcha Fisher has definite opinions about vasectomies and men having elective cosmetic surgery. But what about cosmetic surgery in general? Is it a sin? He starts with what Catholic Answers says on the topic and moves on to his own discourse. Check it out.

Finally, if you've been following the NBA finals, you know that Dallas just tied the series at 1-1 when they pulled out an exciting victory in Miami last night. A friendly wager between the bishops of Dallas and Miami is on and stirring interest and fun in the Catholic communities. Bishop Kevin J. Farrell of the Diocese of Dallas took the bet offered by Archbishop Thomas Wenski of the Archdiocese of Miami.

Archbishop Wenski has thrown the ecclesiastical gauntlet by offering Key lime pies and stone crabs from Monroe County, a box of cigars handmade in Miami-Dade County, and a fish bowl containing Fort Lauderdale sand, water from the Atlantic Ocean, and shells from the beach; some ocean breezes and oranges will also be included if the Miami Heat lose. Bishop Farrell of the Diocese of Dallas has accepted Archbishop Wenski’s challenge and is offering BBQ ribs, tortillas and salsa, deep dish pecan pies and a “Don’t Mess with Texas” cap if the Mavericks lose in this NBA final. Game 3 is in Dallas on Sunday.

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 evangelize door to door?
FEATURED BLOG: The Cruelty of Casual Canonizations
PASTORAL HISPANA: Jesus sube al cielo porque confia en nosotros


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"Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name?"

This Sunday, March 6, 2011- 9th sunday in Ordinary time - we come to the very end of the Sermon on the Mount as recorded in the Gospel of Matthew. We are not surprised that the conclusion of this long sermon comes with an allusion to the Last Day. Our Discussion Questions will guide your Online Sunday Bible Study sessions with your family, friends and church groups.

Allow us to point out something in today’s gospel passage that can be easily overlooked and missed. It’s where Jesus said, "Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name?’" Fr. Charles Irvin says that day is none other than the day we die and stand before God. It is likewise the great Judgment Day at the end of time.

A House Built on Rock

Jesus offers us two perspectives on houses and construction. To build one's house on the sand means to place our hope and our certainty on things that are unstable and fleeting. What are such things? Money, success, fame, and even health and prosperity are just some, explains Fr. Thomas Rosica, CSB. To build one's house on rock means to base one's life and hope on things that are solid, enduring, things that will not be carried away with the winds of the times.

Jesus continues, “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the Kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven.” Fr. Alex McAllister SDS explains that Jesus is heavily stressing that a choice must be made in life. Listening to and then acting on His words leads to eternal life. However, those who merely listen but do not act will find themselves outside the Kingdom.

The prayer of faith, explains Father Cusick, consists not only in saying "Lord, Lord," but in disposing the heart to do the will of the Father. This, Fr. Demetrius R. Dumm, OSB tells us, is the wisdom that will allow us to build a house that can resist all possible storms. We need to open our hearts to the love of God so that we may be free enough to choose to love others.

Fine Words or Good Deeds

Fr. John Foley, S. J. noticed that Jesus was skeptical about good deeds at the end of his famous “Sermon on the Mount.” He warns that we may fool humans with our speech, but God cannot be deceived.

There is only one way in which a person’s sincerity can be proved. And Fr. Orlando Sapuay, M.S. explains that it by one’s actions. Fine words can never replace good deeds. Fr. Joseph Pellegrino clarifies that even if we were to do great things in the name of the Lord, if we do them for our own selfish needs, such as for recognition by others, our actions would be hypocritical. Our character is revealed in the choices we make, especially when we must choose between what is true or false, and good or evil.

College student Colleen Corcoran points out that the Second Reading’s message seemed to speak to the supreme importance of faith (“For we consider that a person is justified by faith apart from works of the law”), while the Gospel is more concerned with the importance of action (“Everyone who listens to these words of mine and acts on them will be like a wise man who built his house on rock”). As Christians we believe that what ultimately defines us and gives us our dignity is the image and likeness of God inside us. This, explains Fr. Ron Rolheiser, is our deepest identity. It is our real self.

Here's the bottom line, according to Fr. Phil Bloom: Salvation involves more than a one-time acceptance of Jesus. What counts is not so much what we do for Jesus or what we know about him. What matters is knowing Jesus and being known by him: a daily relationship with Jesus based on intimate prayer.

Lent is Almost Upon Us

Next week, on March 9, Lent begins with the celebration of Ash Wednesday. Catholics should try not to rub their ashes off after Ash Wednesday Mass, an English bishop has said. Bishop Kieran Conry urged Catholics to wear “the outward sign of our inward sorrow for our sins and for our commitment to Jesus as Our Lord and Saviour”.

Dr. Marcellino d'Ambrosio says some think of Lent is a time for fasting. He sees it as a time of feasting. And he lists the three inter-related fertilizers which help Roman Catholics and all Christians bear fruit - Prayer, Fasting and Almsgiving. From the Vatican, Sandro Magister reports that in the message for the forty days of preparation for Easter, Pope Benedict XVI calls all to conversion and new life.

Many Catholics observe Lent with a discipline of withdrawal, in whole or in part, from media: movies, television, Internet, radio, music, newspapers. This is an admirable discipline, and one Steven D. Greydanus recommends. For those inclined to consider this practice, here are six suggested movies to watch for the six weeks of Lent.

Lent is also an opportune time to avail of the Sacrament of Confession. However, many today express a rather deep impatience with the whole idea of confessing one’s sins to a priest. Why, some asked, do we require a mediator when seeking the divine forgiveness? Why can’t we “go directly to God?” Fr. Robert Barron offers a solid explanation tion on why we go to a priest fo Confession.

Thank God for the season of Lent. May we all use the days of this Lent to see the things that God wants us to see, hear the things He wants us to hear, and reform the way we live because we have really listened to His voice.

Unpleasant Truths, Unions and Catholic Identity

Being confronted by the truth can often be unpleasant. In New York City, one such ad has been generating some fierce reactions. The billboard that simply stated “The most dangerous place for an African-American is in the womb.” This message was accompanied by a photograph of a young, African-American girl. Is that message unpleasant? Is it upsetting? Does it get our attention? Yes! Because the message is somberly true. So why has the billboard suddenly been taken down? Archbishop Timothy Dolan of New York discusses the controversy.

In Wisconsin, another conrtroversy rages. The U.S. episcopal conference has underlined the moral element of the current national debate over unions and collective bargaining, noting that it's not simply "ideology or power" that's at stake, but also principles of justice. This statement supported the stance announced earlier by the Wisconsin bishops' conference

Last week, we celebrated the Blessed John Henry Newman's birthday. Applying some of Newman's ideas to the current situation of Catholic colleges and universities in the United States, one could postulate what Newman's proposals would be for the renewal of the Catholic identity of these institutions. Similarly from from Denver, Archbishop Charles Chaput reminded us that all adult Catholics are teachers. That’s one of our mandates as believers. And in an age of confusion, the Church is our only reliable guide. Through her, it’s our job to form our children and ourselves in the truth that will make us genuinely free.

Jews, the Pope and his New Book

And from the Vatican, Pope Benedict XVI made a major new contribution to Catholic-Jewish relations with a gripping theological assessment of who was culpable for the death of Jesus Christ. The Pope exonerated the Jewish people from all blame for the Crucifixion and death of Jesus. His new book "Jesus of Nazareth: Holy Week" is also set for worldwide release on March 10. Here is an excerpt from Benedict XVI's book. It comes from Chapter 7, Section 3, titled "Jesus Before Pilate." Ignatius Press is the publisher of the volume in English.

Facebook, Divorce & Missing Church

Why don’t people go to church? Deacon Greg Kandra discovered this gem on a Facebook post. One priest got tired of listening to excuses why people skip the Church, and has written this interesting list of reasons. The twist? He talks about washing oneself instead of going to Church. But the analogy is strikingly piercing.

Here's a shout-out to many of you out there: If you're married and on Facebook, read this! Patrick Madrid found this claim in an article he read. And it doesn’t surprise us a bit: “A survey by the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers found that Facebook is cited as evidence in 66 percent of divorces in the United States. Also, more than 80 percent of divorce lawyers reported they “have seen an increase in the number of cases using social networking evidence” during the past few years.” Please read this story. it could save your marriage.

At the Movies: The Adjustment Bureau & Soul Surfer

Remember the young woman surfer whose arm was bit off by a shark attack? "Soul Surfer" is a movie about her life. But it met controversy when the producers airbrushed a bible from one of the scenes in the movie. The devotely Christian woman's family fought Hollywood to have the bible reinstated. And they won. This movie comes out April 2.

And finally, Sr. Rose Pacatte, FSP looks at one of the highly propmoted movies this week: "The Adjustment Bureau." Is it good? It's got its merits. But when considered through the lens of theology, or any perspective, Sr. Rose says the movie needs a major course correction.

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: Is it Better to Pray or To Study the Faith?
FEATURED BLOG: Who is the Holy Spirit?
PASTORAL HISPANA: Cristo es la roca sobre la cual construimos
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"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

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"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

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