What I Love About Catholicism: Preisthood and Celibacy

Again, George Weigel has me thinking. In his book, The Courage to Be Catholic: Crisis, Reform, and the Future of the Church, he talks about the priesthood and celibacy. He quotes St. Paul's letter to the Ephesians:

For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior. As the church is subject to Christ, so let wives also be subject in everything to their husbands. Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish. Eph. 5:23-27

After reading Weigel and then these verses, it suddenly dawned on me why celibacy for priests is a "win/win" for everyone.

There are some people who think priests ought to have a choice to get married. Without delving into the assumption that married priests would not molest, the proposal may not be as attractive when viewed in full.

Seven years ago, when I was serving within my last ministry as a single pastor, I had a conversation with one of our ministry students. He related a story about a pastor friend of his. He said that during the 23 years this man served as a senior pastor, he never took his family on vacation.

I stopped him. "Never?" I asked. He sadly echoed, "Never."

We then went on to discuss how difficult this was for the pastor's family and the stress a pastorate can put on them. "PK" ("Pastor's Kid") has become a byword for out-of-wedlock pregnancies, drug abuse, homosexuality, and an assortment of woundedness that causes many a PK to turn away from the church.

Being a pastor is not a Monday through Friday, 9-5 type of job. Most people realize this. But how often do people think of the countless dinners without dad, the missed soccer games or plays because dad is needed elsewhere, or the lonely nights his wife endures because her husband is busy preparing for either a sermon or some committee meeting?

Now tell me who's being selfish. Is it selfish to deny a priest the married life or is it selfish to give it to him but yet deny a family their father?

I was lucky. My dad was a traveling salesman.

When I look at Catholic priests, I realize this is the heart of their calling. They are married to the Church. As Christ loved the Church and gave up His life for Her - so, too, does our priests give up their choice to have a family in order to devote their life to the Church. Being single definitely has its advantages. I know. For 18 years, I lived such a life. Could I have done it as a married woman? Not likely.

Pray for our priests, especially for the loneliness they often experience. And ask God for more vocations. Here's a few I found:

Most gracious Heavenly Father,

We thank you for our for our faithful priests and bishops, whose spiritual fatherhood and example of fidelity, self-sacrifice, and devotion is so vital to the faith of your people.

May our spiritual fathers be guided by the examples of Saints Peter and Paul, all the Apostles and their saintly successors. Give them valiant faith in the face of confusion and conflict, hope in time of trouble and sorrow, and steadfast love for you, for their families, and for all your people throughout the world. May the light of your Truth shine through their lives and their good works.

Assist all spiritual fathers, that through your Grace they may steadily grow in holiness and in knowledge and understanding of your Truth. May they generously impart this knowledge to those who rely on them.

Through Christ our Lord. Amen. (Women for Faith and Family)
******

O Jesus, our great High Priest,
Hear my humble prayers on behalf of your priest, Father [N].
Give him a deep faith

a bright and firm hope
and a burning love
which will ever increase
in the course of his priestly life.

In his loneliness, comfort him
In his sorrows, strengthen him
In his frustrations, point out to him

that it is through suffering that the soul is purified,
and show him that he is needed by the Church,
he is needed by souls,
he is needed for the work of redemption.

O loving Mother Mary, Mother of Priests,

take to your heart your son who is close to you
because of his priestly ordination,
and because of the power which he has received
to carry on the work of Christ
in a world which needs him so much.

Be his comfort, be his joy, be his strength,

and especially help him
to live and to defend the ideals of consecrated celibacy. Amen.

(+John Joseph, Cardinal Carberry (d.1998)
Archbishop of St. Louis 1968-1979

Wrought's Going On?

Another creation.

I almost can't believe the "dumbing down" that went on at the US Bishops' Conference.

Bishop Donald Trautman, a longtime critic of the new translations, said the texts contain a number of "archaic and obscure" terms, pointing to words such as "wrought," "ineffable," and "gibbet." He further expressed concern that Joe and Mary Catholic could not understand such terms.

Wrought? They don't think most Catholics would understand the word wrought?

I think they'd be surprised.

I Am Rarely Ineffable...Except When I Saw This

I had seen this photograph almost a month ago when someone was mentioning one of the many liturgical abuses that have occurred in the church. I decided to have some fun with it.

Bishop Trautman thinks the word "ineffable" is too large for our walnut-sized brains to handle. But I think almost everyone would get the point after seeing this photograph.

(Inspiration from Orthometer)

New Blog Welcome Wagon: Levavi oculos

Maybe it was being introduced to Fr. Finigan's wonderful blog, The Hermeneutic of Continuity, but I've had my eyes trained across the pond and feeling the love for All Things British. In 1985 I had the privilege of visiting Oxford and simply loved it. (Tea and scones! Yum!)

I found a new blog through Fr. Zuhlsdorf's site, Levavi oculos. Since "Sacred Heart" seems to be just as enthusiastic toward the Gregorian Rite as I am, I wanted to give him a shout-out. Welcome to the Catholic blogosphere, Sacred Heart!

"Yes, We Are Brothers But We Are Not Saved As Brothers. We Are Saved By the Sacrifice."

As those in "the 'hood" would say...

Whomp! There it is!

The above quote was Cardinal Darío Castrillón Hoyos as he discussed with four British journalists why celebrating the Extraordinary Form Mass is so important and how Pope Benedict XVI wishes to introduce what His Holiness calls the "Gregorian Rite" to every parish in England and Wales. This little press conference is still emitting shock waves within the Catholic cognoscenti in England.

I was reading Fr. Z's entry on Elena Curti's article regarding the press conference, Ringing in the Old. As I read the quote I used as a title, this thought landed on my soul with full force - Worship of community has taken the place of adoring God through the sacrifice of His Son.

I value community. During my years away from the Catholic church, I enjoyed small groups and adult Bible studies. I was involved in prayer groups, mission trips, and a slew of ministries. All of them afforded the opportunity to become better acquainted with my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. We grew closer to one another as we served in the church. But the "growing closer to one another" worked in conjunction with our own understanding of God's truth.

The Catholic church is different. (As I keep realizing on oh-so-many levels.)

The Mass is THE preeminent glue that holds the church together. Or at least from my prior training, that's how I understood it. But the "glue" was not focusing on one another and how we "experienced" the Mass. The glue was focusing on the sacrifice of Jesus. Simple, yet profound. Bold, but yet nuanced. "The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass" is too often misunderstood by Protestants as "re-sacrificing Jesus." Nothing could be further from the truth.

The more I reacquaint myself with the Mass, the more I see it in all its beauty and truth - and I have seen this beauty and truth mainly through the prism of the Gregorian Rite. Jesus Christ was indeed sacrificed "once and for all":

For we know that Christ being raised from the dead will never die again; death no longer has dominion over him. The death he died he died to sin, once for all, but the life he lives he lives to God. - Rom. 6:9, 10 (RSV)

However, we need to remember His sacrifice. We need to remember because there is so much in this world that can cause us to forget. There is so much self-indulgence in the world that leads our eyes toward our own preferences, our own wants, our own desires - that we believers can easily forget about the "I have been crucified with Christ" part. (Gal. 2:20)

It is this self-indulgence I've noticed the most. It isn't just in Catholic churches, but all churches. The focus went from adoring Christ to "getting my needs met." It went from reverencing God to "expressing myself." It evolved from confessing our sins to justifying politically-correct causes. The list could go on and on and on.

The Gregorian Rite is (in my mind), setting things "right" again. It's setting the broken bones. It provides grounding for those who have flown a little too far from their spiritual home and mistakenly believe they're under the "Shadow of His Wing" when in fact they're huddling under a garbage heap. Strong words, I know, from a recent "reclaimer." But I've already seen the trap in other churches. Pope Benedict is trying to lovingly corral his children back into the safe fold of our Heavenly Father's flock.

I know there will be many who will never, ever like "The Latin Mass." They'd rather chew glass than sit through an hour and a half of unintelligible Latin and the whole stand-kneel-sit-stand-bow-stand-kneel routine. I don't believe that the Gregorian Rite is for everyone to love. But I do believe it is for everyone to attend at least once and then re-examine the Mass through its lens. There is no reason why the Novus Ordo could not be transformed by such prayerful consideration.

What I think is happening right now is that many who love their "freedoms" realize their "ideological joyriding"* days are coming to an end and that Papa has taken back the keys to the car.

* From The Courage To Be Catholic: Crisis, Reform, and the Future of the Church by George Weigel, p 36

What I Love About Catholicism: Priests

Fr. Augustine Tolton, the first black U.S. priest

A part of me is still shaking her head in disbelief that I am having such thoughts. Only those who were fully involved with Evangelical/Non-denominational churches will understand what I'm saying.

For 25 years, I attended churches that did not have a clear hierarchy. Senior pastors obtained their roles by either having a vision to build a church (and built it from the ground up), succeeded another pastor by serving within the church and in essence being "promoted" to the senior position, or they were hired from the outside by some steering committee. (Which opens up a whole other discussion in itself.)

The Roman Catholic church is quite different. Men discern a calling from God to enter into a lifetime of service to the Church. It is a mysterious thing, a powerful thing, and a humbling thing - all rolled into one.

When I was involved in the non-Catholic churches, I developed a mild case of apathy toward priests, mixed with just a tad of doubt. (And okay, maybe some condescension.) I looked at the whole idea of the priesthood as passe, un-Scriptural, and a holdover from the Dark Ages. I thought priests (now don't hit me) were elitist; exercising spiritual authority that in reality was available to every Christian.

In fact, a few years ago, I could have had a great conversation with Elena Curti, who is the Deputy Editor of The Tablet, a British weekly Catholic paper. When she recently heard Cardinal Dario Castrillon Hoyos announce that Pope Benedict XVI wanted to introduce the "Gregorian Rite" (also known as the Tridentine Rite) to every Western church, Ms. Curti was slightly horrified. Her response (emphasis mine):

Your Eminence, I think many Catholics are rather confused by this new emphasis on the Tridentine Rite, mainly because we were taught that the new Rite represented real progress, and many of us who have grown up with it see it as real progress, that there are Eucharistic ministers, women on the sanctuary, that we are all priests, prophets and kings. This new emphasis to many of us seems to deny that.

From the article "Traditional Mass for 'all the parishes'" by Damian Thompson, The Telegraph, June 15, 2008

I understand. In fact, Ms. Curti's description of the laity is almost identical to that of Evangelical churches. For years, I felt I was a part of "the priesthood." I felt as though we were all one body, with no real distinction between leadership and congregation. In fact, some churches emphasized "servant leadership" so much that there wasn't much deference given to leadership. Some would say they just got stuck with the job of doing the work. (Sad, but true.)

Catholics view priests much differently. I'm reading George Weigel's book, The Courage to be Catholic: Crisis, Reform and the Future of the Church. Whenever I read Weigel, I am confronted with what Catholicism is; which is many things but one that it is not is a denomination. It is not "an institution whose form is typically defined by the will of its members - but a Church - a community whose basic structure and boundaries are defined, once and for all, by the will of Christ. For the Church is the Body of Christ, and those who are ordained to act in persona Christi, "in the person of Christ," exercise headship in the Body, the Church." (p. 26)

Vatican II reaffirmed what the priesthood meant:

"...ordained priests are "living instruments of Christ the eternal priest." At his ordination, every priest "assumes the person of Christ." The Catholic priest, in other words, is not simply a religious functionary, a man licensed to do certain kinds of ecclesiastical business. A Catholic priest is an icon, a living re-presentation, of the eternal priesthood of Jesus Christ. He makes Christ present in the Church in a singular way, by acting in persona Christi, "in the person of Christ," at the altar and in administering the sacraments."

The Courage to be Catholic: Crisis, Reform and the Future of the Church, George Weigel, p 23

As the lines blurred between the priesthood and the laity, it eroded the understanding that the priesthood is unique and set apart. The respect and reverence that used to be accorded to such men was lost. Could this have been a factor in the sexual abuse scandals of some priests? Perhaps. If a priest was not fully aware of his role as an icon of Christ, then I would think it made it easier to see himself as an individual with no connection or responsibility to the church at large.

I heard a recorded interview of Pope Benedict but it may have been was when he was a Cardinal. I wish I had particulars, but I don't. At one point, the interviewer asked Pope Benedict what he thought about priests who had been involved in sexual abuse. Pope Benedict was very concise. He said he didn't think they took their faith seriously. If they did take their faith seriously, there was no way they could harm a child or a teenager.

In spite of this, I have begun to love priests more and more, especially the younger ones. I know of the earnest devotion that is often the earmark of young adults. It is natural. When one is younger, they are thankfully free of the emotional baggage that often comes in time with years of service. They are hopeful and optimistic. They are to be held in prayer as God sets them upon firmer footing, for their faith will begin to strengthen as they witness God delivering them time and time again from evil.

They have made sacrifices that I can't begin to know. They seek to serve in a culture that no longer acknowledges their role and all too often, denigrates them for it. I believe those who are called into the priesthood during this time will be required to step up to the plate in a more substantial way than their twentieth-century predecessors.

But still, priests are with us and they've been given spiritual authority from God to do the job of leading His Church by submitting to the Head, who is Christ Jesus.

I am more in awe of them than ever.

Powerful Testimony of a Woman Who Lost What Meant the Most to Her, and Lived to Tell the Tale

I'm listening to Teresa Tomeo's radio show and hearing the touching story of Marian Hammaran and her return to the Catholic church and journey toward understanding suffering.

She and her husband experienced one of the most tragic losses a parent can experience - the murder of their only child. Caitlin Hammeren was one of the 32 people who were slain by a disturbed gunman on the campus of Virginia Tech on April 16, 2007. (Mantilla nod to Et Tu)

On Teresa's show, Marian talks about how a book so deeply touched her that it lifted her out of her self-imposed prison of anger toward God and placed her on the path of acceptance. The book is Ten Prayers God Always Says Yes To by Anthony DeStafano.

It sounds like a wonderful book and one that can minister to those who are hurt and don't know where to turn.

God bless Anthony DeStafano and may God use this book to draw many to His loving heart.

I Guess Hillary Can Forget About the V.P. Nomination

Whoa. I just caught this online.

Obama hires Patti Solis-Doyle as the chief-of-staff to the Vice Presidential candidate.

For those who follow politics, Solis-Doyle was Senator Clinton's campaign manager until she was fired for poor management. The story says Clinton and Solis-Doyle haven't spoken since the firing. This move on Obama's part effectively closes the door to Clinton's chances of being chosen as the V.P. nominee.

All I can say is as much as Team Clinton keeps track of who "betrayed" her, there is also those who seem to somehow land on their feet after a close encounter with She Who Must Be Obeyed.

(Note: The Huffington Post site is often filled with raw language, including a comment in the story. Just an FYI.)

Looking for a Catholic Bible Study Group?

Steve Ray just posted a way to find Catholic Scripture Study in your area.

The Study Groups will use guides developed by Steve Ray and a group of carefully chosen priests, authors and editors who stay true to the Magisterium.

From Catholic Scripture Study's website:

CSS is an organization committed to helping Catholics deepen their understanding and love of our Lord Jesus Christ and His Church. We are dedicated to producing Catholic study materials that are always faithful to the teachings of the Holy Catholic Church. Our studies incorporate Sacred Scripture, Sacred Tradition, and Magisterial Teaching. This is because, as Catholics, we know that God has given us three gifts so that we may know Him and His plan for us. These gifts are Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition, which together, make up a single deposit of the Word of God, and the Magisterium of the Catholic Church which listens devotedly, guards with dedication and interprets faithfully God's Word.

Check it out to discover if a parish near you already has a study group. If not, why not start one?

This is just a fantastic find! When I left the Catholic church at age 20, one of the major reasons was because there wasn't a Bible study group available. I was starting to ask deeper questions about my faith but at the time, felt there were few places I could go for answers.

Scripture study shouldn't stop after high school or college. I know I'm going to definitely be checking into Steve Ray's series which explores the documents of Vatican II. Sounds fascinating!

Gay Activists Are Headed for the Churches

I wasn't surprised to read the following:

The next two Sundays, a coalition of radical gay groups comprised of SoulForce, The National Black Justice Coalition, and Equality Riders have coerced two of the nation’s most influential leaders into a closed-door showdown. Two of these groups (Soulforce and Equality Riders) are known for civil disobedience - even getting arrested in the name of GLBT justice. Bill Hybels at Willow Creek Community Church and Rick Warren at Saddleback Community Church will meet with these folks on June 8 and 15, respectively. Although Hybels and Warren will undoubtedly defend the faith boldly, SoulForce and company have set up a symbolic media campaign designed to suggest that conservative churches are bending on their gay relationships and marriage prohibitions.

The Gay Activists Are Headed For The Churches

Before I express an opinion, I do want to state that several of my uncles and one first cousin are gay. I've had gay friends in the past and even studied the Gay/Lesbian group's communication at my university as part of a group project requirement. I have a very deep empathy for gays and lesbians. However, I do not believe the lifestyle is what God intended when He instituted marriage. From my experience of friendship with especially gays, I was often touched by the deep hurt and pain they carried from their families of origin. Some had been molested as young boys which became a defining force for their identity.

Not all gays are activists. Not all gays want the states to recognize gay marriage. But gay activists are bulldozing their way over the "will of the people" to accomplish their agenda.

I have never understood this desire of gays wanting marriage. (Especially gay activists, who never seem to be satisfied.) Here are a few reasons:

1) Loud & Proud Gays have usually boasted how they "push the envelope" on what is acceptable behavior in society. It used to be that if you were gay, you weren't "out" about it, but discreet. Most people respect discreet.

2) Loud & Proud Gays have mocked traditional institutions for decades.

If activist gays have spent years minimizing the importance of such traditional institutions such as church and family, then why is it so important to be recognized by them? Well, as you may imagine, I have an idea.

Deconstruction.

Deconstruction is happening all around us. Those who don't like things as they are want to change them into their own liking. It isn't enough to say, "Well. Heterosexuality isn't my cup of tea. I'm gay and I'll live my own life as I please." No, the radical gay activists have much more in mind.

Have you noticed how things have changed over the past thirty years? At first being gay was a "choice." Then that became un-politically correct to say. It then became a "lifestyle." Again, that was eschewed as gays insisted there was no choice attached to their sexual identity. Now, we are expected to not only accept their choice, but celebrate it in marriage. The next step will be full adoration.

I know that may sound extreme, but we are talking about a certain group who want validation at all costs. They have no qualms about destroying tradition because as far as they see it, tradition has condemned them and they're not about to put up with it any longer. Listen to any strident cry from the activist crowd and you'll hear their indignant anger that for some, is pure rage. They are out to destroy anything that does not agree with their world view.

It is that intent to destroy that is key.

Homosexuality is simply one issue that churches confront. This is amid a variety of issues that include: abortion, pornography, child abuse, greed, to name a few.

Those who are not Christian aren't expected to obey Biblical precepts. If anything, they need our love and prayers. But for those who call themselves Christian, they need to seriously consider the words of St. Paul (emphasis mine):

"All things are lawful for me," but not all things are helpful. "All things are lawful for me," but I will not be enslaved by anything. "Food is meant for the stomach and the stomach for food"--and God will destroy both one and the other. The body is not meant for immorality, but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body. And God raised the Lord and will also raise us up by his power. Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ? Shall I therefore take the members of Christ and make them members of a prostitute? Never! Do you not know that he who joins himself to a prostitute becomes one body with her? For, as it is written, "The two shall become one flesh." But he who is united to the Lord becomes one spirit with him. Shun immorality. Every other sin which a man commits is outside the body; but the immoral man sins against his own body. Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, which you have from God? You are not your own; you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.

1 Cor. 6:12-20 (RSV)

These verses are powerful. St. Paul is reminding us that we have been bought at a price. It is not just our flesh that is running the show - we've been joined together with the Spirit of Christ. We belong to Him, not ourselves. Which means that we are shun immorality, to pursue God at all costs and glorify Him in our body.

This applies to both heterosexuals and homosexuals. We are called to live lives of holiness; which includes celibacy for unmarried people and chastity for everyone. Even if we're married, we're not allowed to insist upon our own pleasure. For those who struggle with homosexual desire, they are required to crucify those desires and seek grace and strength from God.

Who is to say what someone's "cross" may be to bear? In 1 Cor. 12:7, St. Paul shared his own struggle: "And to keep me from being too elated by the abundance of revelations, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan, to harass me, to keep me from being too elated." He never mentioned this "thorn of the flesh" ever being removed.

I'll be interested to see how Willow Creek and Saddleback will respond to this type of bullying. The gay activists are well aware that the Christian church is their biggest obstacle from fulfilling their agenda. They wrongly think they can force their will upon a group of people who have been known to die for their faith.

When you're dealing with such a group, no amount of bullying is going to get you anywhere.

ETA: After giving this more thought, I realized what truly bothers me is that these two churches have granted legitimacy to these gay activists. By agreeing to meet with them, there is the implication that something may be negotiated. I cannot help but wonder, what?

Not only has the Catholic church taken a strong stand on recognizing that "homosexuality acts are intrinsically disordered," (CCC 2357), but other Bible-based Christian churches agree. If a gay person is coming to the church for support to help them live a holy and celibate life, there is forgiveness and redemption available. If, however, a gay is coming to the church with no remorse for engaging in acts clearly condemned by Scripture, then there is nothing to say except reconsider your position and pray for a repentant heart.

I do not get the impression these activists are repentant. Instead, they are looking for more validation for living a life apart from God. May God help us all to stand strong for His truth and give grace and strength to repentant gays "to unite to the sacrifice of the Lord's Cross the difficulties they may encounter from their condition," (CCC2358)

What I Love About Catholicism: Fatherly Love

I may elaborate on this topic more, but today my mind was filled with thoughts of fathering and in particular, the fathering that goes on within the Catholic faith.

Part of what contributed to my musings was Fr. Z's entry on Cardinal Castrillon Hoyos declaration that the Latin Mass is to be reintroduced to every Roman Catholic parish in England and Wales. This is amazing in itself. The Latin Mass, from the featured article, was effectively banned from both countries for 40 years. The liberals do not want the Latin Mass to experience anything short of a final death, so suffice it to say they're not too happy with this development.

As I pondered this information, (and the lively discussion going on in the combox) I realized what we are experiencing is a father's love through our Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI.

Many times, fathers make unpopular decisions in the family. They are often the ones who have to not only set the rules, but enforce them. Fathers direct, guide, and discipline. Mothers do this also but I would humbly submit there is a different way she goes about it. How many mothers have said, "Just wait until your father gets home..." Which of course made most children eager to redeem themselves.

There has been a great deal of doctrinal error, rebellion, and abuse (both liturgically and on a personal level) within the Catholic church over the past 40 years. For 25 of those years, I was absent. But I remember the blandness of my local parishes and realize it was no wonder I left. There was no "defense of the faith" then or a passion for the Catholic faith. My spiritual formation was weak and although I had a hunger to learn, I admit I did not turn that hunger toward the Catholic church. I thought at the time that there were better churches than the Catholic church.

Pope Benedict XVI is doing something very brave and to me, very right. He's bringing the Latin Mass back into the spotlight for a reason. Because on a certain scale, the Catholic church has lost its way. Over the past few decades, the world has had its way with the church. Every social issue has been brought up but yet topics such as sin and holy living have been kicked to the curb. I read today a fascinating testimony of a young woman who almost abandoned her Catholic faith for an evangelical church but was rescued by the wise words of her mother. (Her story has been preserved on the blog, "A Quiet Catholic." The story is "I Was Robbed.")

The Tridentine Mass (also called the Extraordinary Form or Latin Mass) leaves no room for that. As a matter of fact, just reading the 1962 Missal's portion of what to contemplate before going to confession (A very clear "Examination of Conscience") proves that whoever put it together was taking sin very seriously.

How seriously do we take sin today?

A good father won't allow his children to run roughshod over him or his wife. He will not allow his children to act selfishly or throw noisy tantrums when they don't get their way. A good father will confront his children and challenge them to consider their ways. My own father did this and I am so thankful I had such a dad. Did I like to be disciplined as it was happening? No, of course not. But I realized my father only did it because he loved me enough to withstand my momentary resentment so I could be set on the right path.

I'm loving Pope Benedict XVI more and more. I believe he is a true Father in relation to bringing the Latin Mass to the forefront. It is for a "teachable moment" that we, as the Catholic church, so desperately need.

Boy, Would My Brother Be Surprised

I joined the choir. (or the Schola Cantorum, if you're speaking Latin. Which I am trying to do ...hence my involvement.)

When I met with the parish priest weeks ago, I mentioned how I was really enjoying the Latin and starting to even keep up with it throughout the Mass. He responded by saying the best way to learn Latin was to join the choir. I laughed and said I didn't think I had that good of a voice. He quickly said, "Doesn't matter. Just join and you'll learn Latin faster."

So, that's how I came to be at an 8:00 AM rehearsal and then joining the rest of the group in the choir loft.

I am so thankful for one singer, Rhonda, who is one of the sweetest women I've met. She is also an alto. By standing next to her, I could make out her part of the harmony. I really loved being near everyone as they sang the various responses. During the past few weeks, I've recognized the words and phrasing more and more but yet didn't hear too many around me sing. I really want to learn so I do think this is the best way to do it. I'm looking forward to the day where I can sing more confidently.

My brother would be surprised because he always teased me about my singing voice. He has sung in a few bands, so of course this makes him an expert on singing. (He good-naturedly has ribbed me about it, nothing thankfully, vicious.) My father used to sing in a choir and also was a musician/singer. He's proud of me for trying. Thank God for fathers. (especially today!)

If I get bold enough, someday I may record the schola and put it on YouTube. I'll just make sure my brother doesn't get wind of it.

And All I Got From Today Was Silly Photoshopping...

Well, today wasn't too productive. First, I got hooked on creating "flair" on Facebook.

"Flair" is a term best known from the movie, "Office Space." My husband and I own the movie and cannot honestly say how many times we've watched it. Let's say alot.

Anyway, in the movie, the hero, Peter, falls in love with a waitress, Joanna. Joanna works in a "TGIF"-style restaurant where she is required to wear stupid buttons to show how excited she is to be working there. The buttons are called "flair." She eventually has a meltdown with her boss when he told her she just wasn't wearing enough "flair." (I love that..."Don't you want to express yourself?")

So I created two buttons today. They're available on my Facebook page if anyone wants them.
















But after reading Fr. Z's latest entry on Cardinal Hoyos assertion that not "many parishes, but all" would be celebrating at some point the Latin Mass, I was inspired to create a fun photo. Pope Benedict XVI is reintroducing the old rite as the Gregorian Rite. So here's my latest:



Yes.

I also spent a little over two hours in a theological discussion with my husband over the authority of Peter and what did it mean when Jesus Christ said He was giving Peter the "keys of the kingdom." My husband claimed that the offer was made to all the disciples. I challenged him. Between the both of us, we have a small Biblical resource library of concordances, an interlinear Bible, a Greek Bible, and of course, online Bibles and concordances.

He realized that "you" meant "you." Not "all of you." Singular pronoun. Then he was jumping around all over about how Peter wasn't any more special than the other disciples. I pointed to Acts and how Peter was predominant in the description of the early church. He still didn't see it.

So. I've been trying very hard not to inundate him with things I'm learning about the Catholic church. If you remember, I'd certainly appreciate prayers that God would give me wisdom. I never want to be accused of "pushing" anything. But how to contain my excitement about what I'm learning? This is a most difficult thing. I realize that this may be part of my suffering but I am believing it has a purpose. May He give me grace and strength to bear what He has called me to do.

Off to bed...I need to get up early tomorrow morning.

The Naked Liturgist

Or as we say in some parts of the United States - The Nekkid Liturgist.

Rev. Bosco Peters was kind enough to send me his YouTube video which explains the liturgy's history. And here I thought reading the announcements was a relatively new thing! Be sure to visit the site, Liturgy. I loved the addition of Rev. Peters' face and Roman Collar on the body of Adam in the intro to the video. :-)

My parish's priest reads the notices before his sermon. However, during a Tridentine Mass, there really is no other time to do it.

Enjoy!

Congratulations, Andrew Johnston!

I've been following this young man's progress on the British TV show, "Britain's Got Talent." His first audition was simply heartbreakingly beautiful. (hat tip: Fr. Dwight Longenecker of "Standing on My Head") This 13 year-old boy, brought up by a single mom, in what Americans would call "the projects," has one of the most angelic voices I've heard. What immediately touched people was the fact he was bullied by other boys for this type of singing.

Although Andrew Johnston came in third for the competition, I just learned that he signed a £1 million deal with Simon Cowell's record label. An album is to be released later this year. As my UK friends would say, "Brilliant!"

His audition was singing "Pie Jesu." He chose it again for his last performance on the show. Listen and enjoy. I hope to see his record available soon in the U.S.

Latin Mass Poll

To the left, you'll see a poll for those who love the Tridentine Mass. This is also called the Extraordinary Form Mass and it's the one which was celebrated more frequently before Vatican II.

I know Fr. Zuhlsdorf had an entry last August for those who attended a Tridentine Mass. He wanted to specifically hear from those who were not raised with this Mass and if they were hooked right away or not. From the responses, it seemed many were not hooked right away. I was.

I'm just curious if there is any connection between those of us who are hooked and our love for anything having to do with the Medieval or Renaissance period.

On the other hand, I could just be weird.

What Catholics Don't Have: CrazyBusy Services

Even if you took the most progressive Catholic parish and measured it next to a popular mega-church (like Willow Creek Community or a gigantic Vineyard), you'd still find the Catholic parish less chaotic.

At my last non-Catholic church, we had a Friday night service, a Saturday night service, two Sunday morning services and sometimes a Sunday evening service. Children's ministry was at all the services. (Hence the usual begging from one harried teacher or another before the service. We'd even have a special "Children's Service" once a month to make sure everyone really understood how awesome it was to work in children's ministry.)

I've pondered the whole Children's Ministry question for years. (For instance, why is it so hard to get people to commit to this ministry?) Even though I was estranged from the Catholic church back then, I'd still often comment, "You know, Catholics might have it right. They keep their kids with them during the church service."

Oh, yeah. I was really popular with those sort of comments.

Here's a rundown of the various ministries available on a weekend at most churches:

Parking Lot Attendants Ministry
Greeters Ministry
Coffee Ministry (Yes. It's one of the offices of the Holy Spirit, don't you know...)
Ushers Ministry
Book Store Ministry
Children's Ministry
Communion Ministry (although this is getting harder to find at some churches)
Worship Team
Prayer Team
Soundboard Ministry
Overhead Ministry (for those still stuck in the dark ages of "The Overhead" instead of having a Jumbotron flat-screen hanging from the ceiling)
and...The Set-Up and Tear-Down Crew Ministry (for those using the cafeteria of some school or city building)

Ah, yes. I've been involved in almost all of them. I can remember one church holding a special "Find Your Ministry" day that included a bunch of tables with people begging asking for volunteers. Often, whole sermons were devoted to how important it was to "serve" and "exercise your gifts."

Now the above "ministries" all had to do with celebrating a church service. So true ministries such as evangelism weren't included. After all, it was also our job to haul as many unsuspecting friends to church with us, so really that didn't count. What was really important, was getting warm bodies to do the work of having a huge, mega-church Sunday service.

I heard early on that only 20% of church members do about 80% of the work that needs to be done. Very frequently, I'd ask myself about the Biblical basis for having all this "stuff" go on during a Sunday church service.

While visiting a church a few years ago, I almost howled when the pastor shared a comment from a new believer.

"Pastor," he said. "You know I'm busier now than when I wasn't a Christian!" The Pastor quickly shushed him and told him not to let that get out. (So of course he uses it to make a point in his sermon...) The pastor's sermon was on a book called Margin: Restoring Emotional, Physical, Financial, and Time Reserves to Overloaded Lives.

Pastor, meet mirror.

Catholicism has a very clear delineation between the priesthood and the laity. There are some things the laity will never be allowed to do, nor should they. Some Catholic parishes like the laity to do some stuff.

But what I love about my Sundays is that they no longer feel like I'm running the 50-meter sprint. In my humble opinion, we Christians already live in a very hectic world. Why make Sunday crazybusy, too?

Thank You for Visiting

Yesterday, I noticed I was receiving more visitors than usual. I was curious how they found me, so I "Googled" my site. Sure enough, I found a mention of this blog on Fr. Finigan's site, The Hermeneutic of Continuity. (I just love that name. It trippeth over the tongue lightly, eh? :-) )

So if you're visiting from his blog, thanks. I'm still discovering the wonderful world of Catholic blogs and really appreciated his recent video of the Latin Mass at Lourdes. I'll be reading more.

A special shout-out to any visitors from New Zealand! I received a few very nice emails from them (one from a priest) and I'll be updating my blog, soon.

I love our big Catholic family!

Catholics and Bible Studies

I've been thinking about this topic for some time. In fact, it was part of the reason why I left the Catholic church when I was twenty years old.

For most Catholics, the idea of gathering in someone's home to study the Bible is almost foreign. Catholics are filled with doctrine and Scripture from the time they are children until they finish high school. From there, parish involvement and retreats continue to fill one's spiritual needs.

I used to think that Catholics really missed the mark on this one. As I attended my first Bible study when I was in college, I was struck by how my fellow believers hungered for the richness of God's Word and how they pursued understanding. They rightly treated the Bible as a vast repository of spiritual treasures. I dug right in alongside them, buying concordances, expository dictionaries, and commentaries. I wanted to know the Hebrew and Greek meaning of the words. I searched for other uses of a particular word in the Bible to get a fuller meaning of the context. I eventually led Bible studies and taught people how to dig deep into the Bible on their own.

Although I learned much and God in His infinite wisdom granted me a portion of understanding and practical application of His truth, I had moments where I felt something was missing. I wasn't sure what it was, only that I sensed something was lacking.

It wasn't until I returned to the Catholic church that I realized what might be the missing piece of the puzzle.

Church authority.

Dr. Scott Hahn explained in his journey toward Catholicism (Rome, Sweet Home) that the conversion process started when he realized there was no Scriptural basis for sola scriptura, that Scripture alone is the final authority of Christian doctrine. The verse that opened Dr. Hahn's eyes was from 1 Timothy 3:

I am writing these things to you, hoping to come to you before long; but in case I am delayed, {I write} so that you will know how one ought to conduct himself in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and support of the truth. By common confession, great is the mystery of godliness: He who was revealed in the flesh, Was vindicated in the Spirit, Seen by angels, Proclaimed among the nations, Believed on in the world, Taken up in glory. - (1 Tim. 3:14-16)

When Dr. Hahn saw the church was defined as the pillar and support of truth, he realized the Scripture at that time was not in the form we have today. The newly-born Church was to work in conjunction with the commands of God and teachings of Jesus Christ to spiritually mature a believer. The two were considered inseparable.

The only church I know that takes such a responsibility seriously is the Roman Catholic church. Catholicism not only studies Scripture within the Mass, there are approved authoritative teachings from the Church that further illuminates Scriptural truth. It is a dependable support and consistent.

Consistency is often lacking from many non-Catholic churches, especially those which have no government. The Bible studies are approached with "no net," as it were. Everyone's interpretation is considered but there is no final authoritative word from leadership. Often, this leaves the church wide open for heresy and inaccurate applications of Scripture.

We Catholics have something quite amazing. We have a church that takes the study of Scripture so seriously that Bibles and Bible study materials must receive approval from the Bishops. I bought Dr. Hahn's study of the Gospel of John. Right on the same page as the publication's ISBN information is the phrase: Published with ecclesiastical approval. Plus, there are three imprimaturs - one for the original RSV Bible text, another for the Second Catholic Edition, and a third for the introduction, commentaries, and notes.

In other words, this Bible study had to jump through lots of hoops within the Catholic church before getting approved.

Not only that, there is a lengthy introduction to the study which includes a section titled "Criteria for Biblical Interpretation." The Catechism of the Catholic Church is quoted several times, notably CCC113: We must read the Scripture within the "living tradition of the Church."

Catholics have the opportunity to attend Mass daily. Christians of other faiths may have a Wednesday night service and one Bible study during the week, but Catholics have the privilege of hearing God's word from an ordained priest every day during the week. When you're getting spiritually fed like that, it's hard to feel as though something is missing from your life!

I'm just starting to get involved again with personal Bible study, but I realize that Catholics have a fuller, richer spiritual experience by attending Mass. I just didn't realize all this when I was twenty and searching for "something more." The "something more" was right before my eyes all along.

Whew...Updated Blogroll

I updated my blogroll by creating categories. I'm finding more good blogs and thought it would be easier if I had specific categories, although I found one that could go into two of them. (Humor and commentary, by the one and only Jeff Miller, The Curt Jester.)

It took some time but I think I'll appreciate it later as I add more. I just like a little organization. I use my own blogroll to check for updates. That and my FeedDemon, but not everyone has a feed.

Thoughts on "Progressive" vs. "Traditionalist"

I like to read the special reports featured on the site, Inside Catholic. I'm still learning about the terms "progressive" and "traditionalist." I would say I definitely lean toward traditionalist and am thrilled I have a parish that celebrates the Tridentine Mass.

However, I just read the special report by Todd Flowerday, Progressive Catholicism Is Alive and Well. I have to say I was disappointed by Flowerday's inability to firmly define progressive. Whenever I study a topic, I first try to understand what definition the author is using. It makes reading the rest of his or her argument so much more clear. I feel I am able to understand their viewpoint more easily.

Flowerday's assertion starts with this:

Being a progressive is a natural attitude when a person is convinced that reform is not only possible, but necessary.

This may be his definition but why is reform necessary? What is wrong with the basic tenets of Catholicism as it has been taught in the Roman Rite?

He continues (emphasis mine):

Such reform is essential to the serious believer. Jesus preached metanoia -- a personal reform, a turning around to align the person with God and the Divine Will. How can any believer expect to maintain a steady state without reform? And wouldn't that hold true for the various communal expressions of our Catholic society?

I responded with a lengthy comment, but will reiterate here that what he calls a "personal reform," I call a transformation. Our flesh is not something that can be reformed. It must be crucified - destroyed. Only then can we be transformed, by the power of the Holy Spirit, into the likeness of Christ. New wine does not go into old wineskins. The old wineskin will burst. It also does no good to try to "patch up" the old wineskin. A new wineskin is needed.

I emphasized a sentence of his because I found it contradictory. To maintain a "steady state," one would need to find security in a trustworthy vessel. What, other than the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, is such a trustworthy vessel? I'm talking about the Mass without all the changes, the liturgical dancers, the "rock and roll" bands, and the "feel good-ism" of promoting community at the expense of worshipping God.

Reforming anything introduces change and oftentimes, change is chaos. There are certainly times when change is good but when we're talking about our faith, I don't see it needing change. It needs obedience.

Obedience is a tough pill to swallow. It is much more popular in today's cosmopolitan society to view liturgy within our own set of preferences. It's easier to say, "I don't feel called to do it this way." Flowerday shows his own view toward the liturgy by emphasizing "communal expression."

You know what's ironic? The more I've seen churches focus on community, the more divisive they've become. When we focus on each other and try to "meet the needs" of our community, we so often lose focus of what should be of primary importance - our love and devotion toward God. It's putting the cart before the horse. "Oh," some say, "let's focus on community. We'll become a more tightly-knit group of believers."

This past Sunday, I saw community within a group of people who love the Latin Mass. I believe it is because their focus is where it should be - on the sacrifice of Jesus Christ and what it means for them. From that focus, everything else falls in place. They have love for one another and a healthy respect for the damages of sin.

What happens when someone disagrees with another brother or sister when community is the focus? Usually hard words are said and grudges held. We know we are to forgive but it's difficult when you are convinced the other person is wrong and you are right.

But when the focus is on Jesus Christ and the indisputable fact that I am a sinner in constant need of grace, the response is different. From attending the Mass and understanding the liturgy as Jesus Christ instituted it - I know what Jesus would want me to do. Not what I want to do, but what He wants me to do.

The traditions keep us grounded and headed into the right direction. Those who try to build a church around community are doing nothing more than build a church around the flesh. Community will happen naturally when we as believers focus on God. Focusing on community only offers a myriad of ways for doctrinal error to enter the church. It provides justification for self-centeredness and a slippery side door for my own will to triumph over the Holy Spirit.

We sinners are a tough lot. It takes a combination of the grace of God and the power of the Holy Spirit, coupled with the redeemed spiritual life of Jesus Christ to enable us to live the truth.

I know I may sound hardcore, but I can't help but think that the serpent's lies in the Garden of Eden sound much like what progressiveness offers: Has God really said...? You won't die... You can know good from evil.

Only because I know how easy it is for me to get off track can I say how much I need the straight and narrow. I cannot give my flesh one inch because I know it will take me miles and miles off track. David said to the Lord,

"Search me, O God, and know my heart: Try me, and know my thoughts; And see if there be any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting." (Ps. 139:23,24)

David knew his own assessment was skewed. He needed the clear, objective, and loving eye of God to show him the error of his ways.

I know many progressives would say God gave us a mind and we are to be spiritually mature to direct our own way. Not me. I need to keep holding onto my Father's hand because the older I get, the more I realize how much I need Him.

This Is Just Beautiful

While visiting Lourdes, Fr. Tim Finigan, a UK priest, stumbled upon an SSPX Mass, attended by a very large number of little French girls chaperoned by their Dominican Sisters.

His blog is called "The Hermeneutic of Continuity."

It's a wonderful visual treat to see how the faithful came to this Mass in such great number. Instead of trying to embed the YouTube video (which I think isn't working completely right, it kept spinning at the end...) just visit and watch for yourself. Even though he apologized for the sound (it was recorded with the camera's tiny mic), I heard it just fine. They sounded positively angelic.

Gosh, how I love polyphony.

A Big Thank-You to Kimberly!

Kimberly beat me to it by commenting on my last post before I had a chance to post this. Yesterday I enjoyed a simply wonderful outing with Kimberly and her family as they celebrated her grandmother's 85th birthday. Kimberly and her husband were kind enough to invite those of us who attend the Latin Mass at our parish. Because I'm still new, I especially appreciated this gracious invitation to get acquainted with my fellow parishioners.

There is something special about those who have fallen in love with the Latin Mass. There is a sense of awe, an almost unbelieving attitude that we actually like it, and a joy in realizing that the Mass is filled with mystery and holiness.

I also was reminded how Catholics just love to have fun!

There is a realness with Catholicism that I'm not sure some of them realize. Relax, have a beer, let's talk theology. There is no self-consciousness when Catholics do this. It's very natural and there doesn't seem to be the intense attempts to prove how "holy" one is by exclaiming "Praise the Lord!" after every other sentence. (Note: I have nothing against the phrase "Praise the Lord." I only have a problem when it doesn't seem genuine.)

It was so wonderful to get to know these folks better. Kimberly and her husband have a nine children. (Yep! Is that awesome, or what?!!) They live on a big, rambling farm filled with lots of open space and fresh air. A perfect place to raise a family. They are both hugely generous and filled with laughter and optimism. It was a joy to meet them.

I didn't snap a bunch of photographs because I thought it would be better if these folks had a chance to know me before finding out I'm a photo-fanatic who often takes carefully composed photographs of such objects of beauty like, potato salad, in order to create a scrapbook page. (Because no scrapbook page of a picnic can be complete with a photo of the potato salad...)

So. No photos this time. But next time, I'll have them.

Visit Kimberly's blog, Catholic Family Vignettes, which is filled with wonderful slices about her life. I especially liked the entry, The Simple Woman's Daybook. I was touched by how much beauty there is in the simple things of life. Good stuff.

By the way, Kimberly's sweet husband makes the most kickin' barbecue sauce I've tasted. Those BBQ-ed ribs rocked!

Thoughts on Women

As I sat in the Extraordinary Form Mass this morning, my thoughts turned toward a comment made by a member of the Catholic OnLine Forum. It was on a thread about ordaining women as priests. Although he didn't come right out and say he supported ordaining women, he made the comment about women having "more of an opportunity to serve." This perplexed me because (as I replied) women already are serving in many ways during the Mass.

Within the Novus Ordo Mass, women can be a Lector, an Extraordinary Minister of the Holy Eucharist, sing in the choir, and play an instrument if a band is available. At a Latin Mass, women can sing in the choir, also. But clearly, there are not the same opportunities within the Latin Mass.

To be honest, after all the years of being part of churches where women served in so many capacities - it is actually a relief to not feel pressured to serve within a Mass. I've been on the other side - where women did everything from taking up the collection to greeting and ushering to teaching children's Sunday School. It's exhausting. By the time a Sunday is over in some of these churches, the women who serve are more than ready to see the day end.

How often do these women simply rest in church and absorb what is being taught? Not often. There is always something to do.

After Mass, our parish has a "donuts and coffee" time for those who would like to mingle with others. I remember other churches calling this "fellowship time" and one non-denom church I know actually has a restaurant within its building, just for that purpose.

I spent almost an hour and a half talking with a beautiful young woman about ministry. She is the mother of two very active young children and we spent the better part of our time walking through the halls to make sure she could keep an eye on their behavior. She is a devout woman and hungry for God. It was a blessing to meet her.

But with two very active children, I imagined this young mother didn't have much time to simply soak in the presence of God and focus on what He has done for us through His Son, Jesus Christ. The Tridentine Mass is the only place I've been where I feel women have the opportunity to rest and absorb. Silence is a part of Mass and although there are small children around, they are usually well-mannered.

Women do so much in our society. They can become nervous and edgy if they don't have a way to unwind. I just thought it was pretty wonderful that within the Latin Mass, they can often find a small slice of peace.

Why Catholic Identity Is Important

It was with great sadness that I read this:

Washington, D.C., June 5, 2008 (LifeSiteNews.com) - Georgetown University, the oldest Catholic University in the U. S., has hired lesbian Shiva Subbaraman to act as director for its new Homosexual Campus centre that is to be opened in the fall.

Subbaraman was formerly the associate director of a homosexual equity office at the University of Maryland campus in College Park. After the school threatened to cut funding for the office, Subbaraman started looking for a new job.

The pro-homosexual newspaper, The Washing Blade, reports that Georgetown decided to start the LGBT Equity office after two "anti-gay incidents" occurred on campus. In the first case a student was arrested and accused of assaulting a homosexual student and shouting anti-homosexual slurs at him. The case, however, was dropped due to lack of evidence. In the second incident campus police prevented a group of homosexuals from presenting a petition for the LGBT resource center to the university president. According to the Blade, the police said they were restricting access to the building due to the fact that there was a special event going on inside.

Georgetown University, which is fully funding the new homosexual campus centre, including paying for two full time staff members, has been known to proclaim itself a Catholic institution while going out of its way to support things dramatically opposed to Catholic teaching, including abortion, homosexuality and certain bioethical issues.

The latest news about the founding of the LGBT resource center comes as little surprise to those who have been following Georgetown's movement away from its Catholic identity.

Catholic University Hires Homosexual Campus Director for Gay Campus Centre

The article also pointed out a horrible portion of high school literature that their High School Bioethics Curriculum Project uses in its program. It brings up a situation where a baby, who needed long-term medical care, only lived 2 1/2 years and the medical costs totaled half a million dollars. (And why can't they just say $500,000? Oh, yes. 'Half a million' sounds so much more extreme...)

The literature posed this question: "Do you think this is an appropriate use of the money? Do you think Baby K's mother's religious beliefs should trump issues of fair distribution of resources?"

Unbelievable.

As long as Georgetown University is throwing sick babies under the bus, they may as well strip themselves entirely of what little Catholic identity is left and declare themselves a communist college.

Because the Bible has made it clear that homosexuality is a sin, I would think a Catholic university (or any Catholic group) would want to make sure a person was confronted lovingly with the truth. I do stress lovingly because I've seen too many Christians become harshly judgemental when dealing with this issue. God is a loving God who desires all to have relationship with Him. He does, however, judge our sin. If we can't admit that maybe our way is the wrong way, then it only makes it more difficult for the truth to enter our hearts.

This bit of news from Georgetown saddens me because I see it as the church capitulating to society. We are to stand strong for the truth and the truth is - sexuality is a very important part of our identity; but it is not the only part of it. I've met many gays and they are far from being "gay" or happy. They are wounded on many levels. It is my prayer that the Catholic church will stand more strongly in this area and not justify immorality or euthanasia.

And to think this happened after Pope Benedict XVI visited the United States.

Georgetown U definitely needs our prayers.

What I Love About Catholicism: The Uncool Factor

This may sound a little puzzling to some, but I love how Catholicism is uncool in an American society that worships at the Altar of Hipness. Christian Contemporary Music? (CCM) It's been around for decades but just recently have Catholic musicians gathered together to see what they produce. (i.e. Crispin, "Funky Music Fo' Yo' Soul") Catchy, Catholic tee-shirts and logos? Again, there are a few but not many.

All the trimmings of Christian Cool have seemingly passed over most Catholic churches. I believe part of the reason is the Catholic mindset. Catholics are raised with a very specific "code." They understand each other but do not have the same perspective on evangelism as other Christian churches. It's not that Catholics don't believe in evangelism. They do. They're called missionaries and live in other countries. But evangelize our neighbors and ask them to join us at Mass? That's something that many American Catholics don't think about.

I know what other Christian churches are trying to do. In order to reach the world, they adopt the never-ending quest to be trendy and hip in creating memorable catch-phrases (a tee-shirt with a picture of Jesus Christ with the cross on his back saying, "Bench Press This!") or attractive Christian music (Jars of Clay, Poor Old Lu) to draw in the seeker. But in this pursuit, it's easy to get wrapped up in appearing cool. Some even say, "Jesus was cool."

I disagree. Jesus was definitely uncool in His culture. He hung out with the bottom-feeders of the day - tax collectors and prostitutes. He also didn't water down His message in order to be accepted and thought of as being "hip." He certainly was radical and if some think, "Well, radical is cool!" I'd say, "Absolutely. So how radical is it to have an indistinguishable sound from every other heavy metal band out there - except a Christian metal band is screaming words about Jesus?"

Catholic say some pretty radical things. Such as that the Eucharist is really the Body of Christ (not a symbol). They believe the Blessed Virgin Mary continued to be a virgin and was assumed bodily into heaven. They believe the Pope is the successor to St. Peter and is the earthly head of Christ's church. They believe in saying the Rosary and asking dead people (the saints) to make intercession for them before the throne of God. They think relics are pretty special.

Stuff like that isn't cool. In fact, many think it's downright creepy or weird.

But Catholics just sail on, oblivious to what others think. Their devotion grounds them and serves as a reminder that maybe being uncool is actually a good thing.

At least I think so. :)

Blessed By a New Priest: How Cool Is That?

I have to share my excitement here because really, I don't have many fellow Catholics in my life who would relate. I have my father, who lives in another city two hours away, but at least I can talk to him about Catholicism. And I'm starting to make some new friends at my parish, but other than that, this blog is it.

Soooo....I can't help but share what happened yesterday.

My parish has several weekly Extraordinary Form Masses and the one I attend regularly is Wednesday mornings at 9:00 AM. The priest of this parish, Fr. L, also teaches a weekly Bible study on Tuesday nights. This past Tuesday, I was able to finally attend the study, which was really good. (It was the tail-end of a series on grace and salvation.) During the study, Fr. L happened to mention he would need to take one call on his cell phone from a newly ordained priest who was coming in for a visit. Fr. L mentioned that this new priest considered our parish his "second home."

So during the class, he received the call. He asked if the priest would be "willing to take the 9 AM Mass" because it would help prevent Fr. L from binating. (Saying two Masses in one day) I thought, "Hmmm. We may have another priest tomorrow morning..."

So as Mass started yesterday morning, I realized we did indeed have another priest. His voice was deep and clear as he recited the Latin prayers and said with obvious devotion. After the celebration, he announced to us that if we wanted to receive a blessing from him, to approach the communion rail. Almost every single person came up. I knelt at the end, right in front of the statue of the Virgin Mary.

I want to mention that yesterday's weather was very turbulent! We had heavy thunderstorms off and on all day. In fact, I was tempted yesterday morning not to attend Mass but now I'm so glad I did!

The priest came out after changing from his vestments and started to bless everyone. It wasn't until he came nearer to my area that I realized he was praying in Latin! I also noticed he was carrying a stack of holy cards. Finally, he came to me and laid hands upon my head and prayed for me. After I made the sign of the cross, he softly said, "You may kiss my hands if you'd like" and held out his hands. I quickly kissed them and looked up at him with a big smile while saying, "Thank you, Father." (Note: Kissing the hands of a priest is an old custom. It is meant to venerate the hands of the one who offers up the consecrated host. It is an expression of faith and love for Jesus, whom the priest represents.) I noticed how young he looked and was very blessed to see such a young man answer the call to this precious vocation. He then gave me a holy card.

When I got into the car, I took a closer look at the card. I was elated to realize that he was Fr. Jonathan Romanoski, one of the four priests who had just been ordained by Cardinal Hoyos into the Priestly Fraternity of St. Peter this past Friday, May 30, in Lincoln, Nebraska! (FSSP) How cool is that?!! Here he is with an arrow pointing him out:













I'm including a scanned image of the card. I was so excited and sent up another prayer for this precious priest, that God would direct him in all ways and fill him to overflowing with His love.




I just thought it was the coolest thing to have a priest who was newly ordained to not only celebrate a Latin Low Mass, but to be blessed by him. Please keep Fr. Romanoski and his fellow priests, Fr. Jared McCambridge, Fr. Dennis Gordon, Fr. Justin Nolan, all of the FSSP, in your prayers. They are embarking upon a very exciting journey and one I pray will bear much fruit for the Kingdom of God!

What I Love About Catholicism: The Recognition of Sin

I tried to clarify my title so it wouldn't read, "What I Love About Catholicism: Sin." That would have raised some eyebrows!

Ever since I've returned to the Catholic church three months ago, I've been thinking more about sin. It's not as though I didn't hear pastors preach against sin before, just that I realized Catholics look at it differently - and, they look at it more often.

From the online site, New Advent:

The division of sin into original and actual, mortal and venial, is not a division of genus into species because sin has not the same signification when applied to original and personal sin, mortal and venial. Mortal sin cuts us off entirely from our true last end; venial sin only impedes us in its attainment. Actual personal sin is voluntary by a proper act of the will. Original sin is voluntary not by a personal voluntary act of ours, but by an act of the will of Adam. Original and actual sin are distinguished by the manner in which they are voluntary (ex parte actus); mortal and venial sin by the way in which they affect our relation to God (ex parte deordinationis). Since a voluntary act and its disorder are of the essence of sin, it is impossible that sin should be a generic term in respect to original and actual, mortal and venial sin. The true nature of sin is found perfectly only in a personal mortal sin, in other sins imperfectly, so that sin is predicated primarily of actual sin, only secondarily of the others. Therefore we shall consider: first, personal mortal sin; second, venial sin.

Protestants may accuse Catholics of separating sin into two categories but if I were the Protestants, I wouldn't exactly consider that a problem. Catholics may be accused of thinking too much of sin but Protestants, in my opinion, don't think of it enough. And this isn't even considering the non-denoms. From all my years involved with them; I can count on one hand the times I heard sermons that dealt head-on with sin. Again, this was my experience. Others may have had exactly the opposite happen.

I am glad to hear talk about "mortal" and "venial", sins of "commission" or "omission" because I so need to hear it. I have been forgiven through Jesus Christ, but it doesn't automatically mean my flesh has been subdued. Each and every day, I am presented with a choice. To sin or not to sin. As I recognize my adoption into Christ and ask for the grace of God through the power of the Holy Spirit to enable me to live a life pleasing to Him; God answers. But I am made aware that I need God more than ever. Being baptized into Christ isn't a one-time deal, making the believer saved and sanctified in one fell swoop.

In fact, I liken it a bit to buying a car. Imagine you bought a beautiful, shiny new car. It sits gleaming in your driveway and fills you with pride. But every now and then, you need to drive it. As you tool around the busy-crazy world, your precious car gets a little dirty, a little roughed-up. If you allowed this to happen for years without ever trying to clean it or properly maintain it with oil changes and the like - how would that car run after five years? Probably not as well.

The recognition of sin makes me realize how much I need the grace of God. Many talks from priests made me realize how sin displeases God. It separates me from Him until I realize that I have done wrong and must repent.

The Israelites were given the Promised Land, but yet they had to fight to acquire it. They weren't able to just waltz in there and say, "Well, you pagans...guess what? God gave us this land so if you would all quietly pack up and go, that would be just swell. I hear there's some employment opportunities in Egypt..."

No. The Israelites had to clean house in order to occupy the land. I think of my body that way. The Holy Spirit has to "clean my house" in order to occupy it. How would this happen without my cooperation, without my consent, without my repentance?

Catholicism keeps me on the straight and narrow as I realize my sin is obstructing my progress toward becoming a saint. It is a path for all of us and as far as I can tell, only the universal Roman Catholic church reminds us of this on a consistent basis.

Catholics, Engage the Culture: Sex and the City Film

You would be living under a rock if you avoided hearing about the new film, "Sex and the City." Developed from the HBO series, the film follows four single women who live in New York City and their "sexcapades" and obsession with acquiring expensive fashion accessories. It doesn't serve women well although throngs of women chose to make seeing it a "girl's night" event.

Years ago, I rented the series on DVD from my local Blockbuster's. I wanted to observe it and understand why so many women found it attractive. From my many years of experience in women's ministry, I have a particular interest in anything that affects women so deeply, and unfortunately, this show does just that.

I was immediately struck by the preposition that single women acting like sexually amoral single men is "cool and hip." Kristen Fyfe, Senior Writer at the Culture and Media Institute, (a division of the Media Research Center), wrote a thought-provoking article on the show's impact on our youth. (Will Good Morning America Report THIS Sex and the City Story?) In the article, she points out a 14 year-old girl (14! Mamas, it's 9:00 PM. Do you know what your daughter is watching?) who started to watch "Sex and the City" and thought it was a fine idea to start emulating the characters. So, she started to have sex with multiple boys, smoke, and snuck into bars to drink Cosmopolitans.

According to an ABC report, today she is 22, a Mormon, married and mother of two. She now regrets trying to mimic the lifestyle of single 30-somethings when she was only 14, but still says the movie is "fun" - you just can't take it seriously. But yet she did exactly that at age 14.

Pope Benedict XVI celebrated the 20th anniversary of Pope John Paul II's Apostolic Letter, Mulieris dignitatem. During Pope Benedict's address, he said (emphasis mine):

God entrusts to women and men, according to their respective capacities, a specific vocation and mission in the Church and in the world. Here I am thinking of the family, a community of love open to life, the fundamental cell of society. In it the woman and the man, thanks to the gift of maternity and paternity, together carry out an irreplaceable role in regard to life. Children from their conception have the right to be able to count on their father and mother to take care of them and to accompany their growth. The State, for its part, must uphold with appropriate social policies everything that promotes the stability and unity of matrimony, the dignity and responsibility of couples, their rights and irreplaceable duty as educators of their children. Besides, it is necessary to enable the woman to collaborate in the building of society, appreciating her typical "feminine genius".

- Address of His Holiness Benedict XVI to the Participants in the International Convention on the Theme "Women and Man, the Humanum in its Entirety"
Clementine Hall, Saturday, 9 February 2008

Isn't that beautiful? And more importantly, it's true. There's a larger picture at stake, one that movies such as "Sex and the City" don't even begin to contemplate. The dignity of women starts with God and is expressed specifically within her role in families and the promulgation of society. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to look at American society to see how this blueprint for success has been tampered with. Broken homes, teenage pregnancy, women sexually abusing minors, and lack of parental control have all contributed to a messy society that descends deeper and deeper into hedonism.

In fact, a recent article from Yahoo! News quoted the author of a newly released book on why men aren't marrying. (I knew this already from talking to my 27 year-old pretty cousin who lamented, "Where are all the real men?") The article focused on men's fear that they'd have a bad marriage. Some even wanted a perfect match and were afraid of marrying the wrong person. And only 3 out of 10 wanted to be a father. (Men Prefer Being Solo Over a Bad Marriage: Study)

So what to do?

If you know anyone who has seen the movie or wants to see the movie, challenge them. Ask what's so great about sex without commitment and if this contributes to an image of dignity for women. Ask if it's really what people want. Ask if it's good for society.

Women have such a unique role in the world. We can influence many with our words and actions. As Christians, we can testify to the goodness of God and how He loves women and placed women at the forefront of history's most momentous event, the entry of God-Made-Flesh through the Blessed Virgin Mary. We can remind other women of their God-given gift of dignity and how we have been given the awesome role of bringing life into the world.

Women bring civility to society, which is why movies such as SATC really tick me off. Because if women won't do it - who will?

God Pie

Thanks to Timothy at Christian Apologetics Society for this very convicting video. See what you think.