Sexuality the New God In California

California has ruled that sexual orientation laws trump religious freedom.

Yes. We are fast approaching the day where Sexuality Is God. I may begin to refer to this as SIG and those who ascribe to such a belief, the Siggies. It is almost laughable until you realize that real people are experiencing a systematic attack that not only wants to silence those who have religious objections to homosexuality - but destroy them.

Consider the counselor from Atlanta who was fired from her job simply because she told a prospective lesbian client that she wouldn't be able to provide adequate counseling because as a Christian, she didn't agree with same-sex relationships. The counselor was cordial and referred the lesbian to another counselor who, according to her, provided "exemplary" service.

Mike Adams, in an article published on Townhall, had this to say:

What this case – taken by the Alliance Defense Fund - all boils down to is the unreasonable accommodation of gay activists who simply cannot tolerate the existence of anyone, anywhere who does not accept the gay lifestyle. And to the extent that we accommodate them, we are helping to create a very “uncivil” rights movement. And it is a trend with dangerous implications.

I would go even further to say that gay activists cannot tolerate anyone who does not bow to the Sexuality Is God movement. Their worship of their sexuality is priority. It orients every aspect of their life and their worldview is only viewed through its prism. All must bow to their SIG for if one doesn't, this is the consequence: Eradication of self and purpose from society.

Now in California, we have the judicial system ruling that a person's religious beliefs must bow to the State. Forget about the separation of Church and State. This only matters when they don't want Christians praying in schools or mentioning Intelligent Design. Or when they want to outlaw Christmas. Or when they want to prohibit a Bible study group from meeting but will welcome the local group of Wiccans. Or...or...the list is growing.

I am beginning to think this is why Pope Benedict's visit to the United States came at such a prodigious moment in our history. I believe God sent him to remind us of our calling because hard times are ahead. Pope Benedict expressed quite eloquently the importance of maintaining a presence in the public square. Too often, Christians are relegated to the back of the bus, told to hush up and do as they're told. Meanwhile, the bus is tottering closer to the edge of a cliff and we're supposed to act like we don't care.

We cannot be silent about this, no matter how inconvenient or risky it may be to speak out about these injustices. Gay activists mock Christians by claiming we're over-reacting. Others say this is just desserts after the years of demeaning and critical treatment from the church. But it's not a "live and let live" attitude Siggies have. They're out for blood and are intent upon destroying anyone who will not acquiesce to their demands.

It is ironic that the same people who have whined for decades about being discriminated against are going full bore toward doing the very same thing.

Instead of simply saying, "Okay. They don't agree with what I'm doing. I'll find someone else who does..." They have to fight tooth and nail to make sure everyone "gets used to it." And who has assigned them this task of making sure everyone joins in lockstep with their brand of fascism?

No one. This is an age-old tale of man insisting he can do what he wishes, with no repercussions from anyone. God already responded to this type of lapse in judgement when He booted a third of the angels from heaven along with their gang leader, Old Flint.

Railing against God doesn't have a track record of positive results, but I doubt the Siggies are paying any attention.

Reclaiming the Sacred Body

As I continue to research topics regarding chastity and sexuality, I realize that our culture has truly profaned the sacred.

We have a weekly newspaper in town that features a social calendar. I used to suggest to the women attending my dating workshops to pick up a copy and scan the various groups and activities available. Joining new groups or trying a new activity can help a single person enlarge their social circle. While looking through one of these weekly publications, I noticed a sex column. I won't give the writer any added exposure by mentioning his name, but suffice it to say this column left nothing to the imagination. It was vulgar and raw, treating sex as nothing more important than choosing the menu for dinner.

The topics discussed were so explicit in nature that I was surprised to see it available in a free newspaper, which are quite plentiful in the bars and restaurants around town. I was disgusted by the content, and angry.

I was angry because I knew the type of belief system this column encouraged. Men and women both were treated as sex objects and sex was only seen as a means to an end, a brief satisfaction of bodily lusts while rating the sex partner in terms of how well they performed.

It is easy for me to focus on such craziness, but since returning to the Catholic church, I realize my response needs to change. Instead of changing other people, I need to change myself first. Sinners who have no understanding of their need for a Savior are going to behave like sinners. Sinners who understand that need are going to consistently progress toward holiness.

Our bodies are sacred. As St. Paul wrote to the Corinthians:

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. 6:15-20

For women, dressing modestly is a wonderful way to reclaim their bodies as being sacred. For singles, it is important to establish boundaries regarding the type of physical affection you will give. A single friend had a wonderful solution to her need for touch. She treated herself to professional massages at least once a month. I thought that was fantastic. We all need the human touch but if you're single, you many not get it as often as you'd like. Professional massages are a great way to not only improve your overall health, but it's a safe way to receive this human touch.

What did Israel and the church do with the sacred? It was covered, hidden, or elevated. It was given special honor. Reclaiming the sacred will not happen overnight, but there are steps we can take each day to reach our goal. it may include:

• Curtailing entertainment that profanes the sacred, such as R-rated movies, TV shows, books, magazines, and newspapers
  

• Carefully selecting friends who share your values
  

• Deleting off-color email jokes and asking the person sending them to not send those types of jokes anymore
  

• Walking away from a group who are sharing sexually-explicit jokes
  

• Meditating on the Bible
  

• Attending Mass faithfully
  

• Reciting the rosary

When we fill our minds with the things of God, we become more sensitive to sin and its consequences. I know that since I started to pray the rosary more often, I am much more conscientious of my actions throughout the day. Praying the rosary in the morning orients me in the right direction.

I also cannot speak highly enough of renting film classics if you want quality entertainment. I'm a big Frank Capra fan ("It's a Wonderful Life" is my ultimate favorite.) and any film that has Katherine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy in it is sure to bring a laugh. There were so many great actors during "The Golden Age" of movies that you will have a difficult time choosing which one to watch first. It is immensely refreshing to watch a movie that doesn't automatically focus on the sexual antics of the characters.

Our bodies were created first for God. I pray that I would remember this and encourage others to do the same. When it is dark, focusing on the darkness won't bring about the light. May we all be lights to this darkened world.

A Simple Woman's Daybook

I have been fascinated by my friend Kimberly's inclusion of this, every Monday (Catholic Family Vignettes). Although it is late in the day, I decided to go ahead and do it since Monday is the day for the group of people who do this. I am grateful to Peggy of "The Simple Woman blog who is the clever and creative woman who started The Simple Woman's Daybook. Visit her blog for some truly interesting information about living the simple life.













For today, August 25, 2008

Outside My Window... is the sound of the cicadas, relishing their own symphony of sound, the breeze is blowing inside at a perfect 75 degrees. The sun is low but it is still light outside. Oh, I love the long days of summer!

I am thinking...about how to rid our kitchen of these teensy-tiny little ants. I've never seen ants so small! But they're annoying and they need to find another place to live. We're already moved in.

I am thankful for...my husband who works hard and my new parish home. I've met such a great group of folks already (including Kimberly!)

From the kitchen...is silence. I just finished prepping the coffeemaker for tomorrow morning since my hubby gets up very early. (1:30 AM!) And...paper towels soaked with ammonia, stuffed in the little space of a counter where the ants were trying to conduct their annual convention.

I am wearing...beige shorts, a gray tank top and barefoot, my hair pulled up and held by one of those truly elite alligator clips. Aren't I the fashion plate this evening? (I'm going to have to get dressed up for these entries...)

I am creating...more digital scrapbook pages and it feels good. I was on a bit of a hiatus for the last few months. I just seemed busy with too many other things and didn't feel motivated. Now I'm getting back and love some of the new kits I've been "gifted" with.

I am going...to start hunting for part-time jobs. I've actually "advertised" myself on Craigslist. All I've received so far were responses from two people trying to get me to sign up for the same direct sales organization. Um, no.

I am reading...Sex & the Soul by Donna Freitas. Love this book already. She is talking about how many college girls are very unsatisfied with the whole "hooking up" culture that permeates college campuses. I'm not surprised.

I am hoping...that I find a good part-time job soon that will give me more of a consistent working schedule.

I am hearing...the hum of the floor fan. The nice thing about this new home is its ability to keep cool. I'm about ready to click on my Pandora music list. Not sure if I'm in a "Coldplay" mood or a "Jake Shimabukuro" one...

Around the house...are boxes that still need to be unpacked and the contents need a home. I'm still working on purging but it's going slow. Ugh. Why do I collect junk?!!

One of my favorite things...after my work is done, to sit down to the computer and write what's on my heart.

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week: Looking for that unique part-time job, working at Michael's tomorrow. Figuring out who still needs my new address. And getting back on track with my Pampered Chef business which has been woefully neglected during the move.

Here is picture thought I am sharing... A lovely dusky photo of a beautifully serene place in town - Pickerington Ponds.

The Real Purpose of Womenpriests?

Most traditional Catholics are aware of the bogus group, "Womenpriests" who continue to insist upon fake ordinations in order to validate their own pursuit of power. I've expressed my opinion in older entries; but now realize there may be something more dangerous underneath their pathetic ceremonies and defiant declarations that Rome is behind the times.

From the Wall Street Journal came this:

The Womenpriests come from a dissenting feminist tradition in the Catholic Church -- one in which a leading religious sister has even declared the Eucharist "defective and inadequate" for women. (!!!!)This tradition argues for renewing the church with a model "not geared to a hierarchy but inclusivity," as Ms. Meehan explains it. But those who are faithful to Rome argue that it is precisely the focus on the Eucharist -- and Christ's identity -- that necessitates an all-male priesthood. In 1994, Pope John Paul II declared that "the Church has no authority whatsoever to confer priestly ordination on women."

"The Problem With Liberation Ordination" by Kathryn Jean Lopez

So now we get to the heart of it.

The Catholic church service is called the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass for good reason. The Passion of Christ is remembered with the priest standing as both a High Priest offering the sacrifice and an icon of Christ, re-enacting the most momentous event in the history of mankind - when God accepted the sacrifice of His Son to atone for the sin of the world.

When Catholics think of this - really think of it, the only correct response is awe, humility, repentance, and deep gratitude. Jesus Christ told His disciples that whenever they took the bread and wine, they were consuming His Body and Blood. It is a deeply sacred and mystical moment, one that will affect everyone who gives serious consideration to what is transpiring during the Mass.

The Mass is what holds Roman Catholics together throughout the world. If Catholics had to go underground because of persecution (and many already have done this or are doing it...), the Sacrifice of the Holy Mass would hold true and continue to bind them together.

What better way to destroy the Roman Catholic Church than try to minimize the importance of the Eucharist? It's evil, plain and simple, and any woman or man who denies the Real Presence ought to be lovingly corrected and if they still resist, removed from fellowship according to Matthew 18:15-17.

The Womenpriests are dangerously conniving and try to hide their manipulation behind an argument of fairness. If they were to succeed in destroying the sacredness of the Eucharist, what do you suppose would happen? Nature, as it's said, abhors a void. The Eucharist would need to be replaced with something - and that something is elevating man as god. Remove Jesus Christ and you remove the need of man for a Savior.

Because Womenpriests know that the obstacle toward their goal is the Eucharist, they will begin to try to celebrate Mass with the intent upon relegating the Real Presence into simply a snack. It will hold no meaning, just a watered-down reminder that Jesus was the Son of God. But it won't stop there. They'll begin to say Jesus was a "good teacher" among many teachers. It will open the door for more "inclusivity" of other religions. There will be intra-religious services celebrated, all in the name of "acceptance" and "tolerance."

Meanwhile, the Real Presence will be gone, thought of as nothing more than an outdated belief that has no purpose for these "progressive" women. I ask you, "progressives," what are you progressing toward? It would seem a destination I'm trying to avoid, and I know I'm not the only one.

These exercises of grand presumption are accomplishing nothing more than exposing them for what they are - caught up with the folly of the world while denying that God has a purpose, a plan, and a hierarchy for a reason.

It is to their eternal detriment that they continue to "kick against the goads." We need to continue to pray that the scales of blindness fall from their eyes.

Clarification on the Video: Relationships and Tolerating Bad Behavior

After watching my latest video, it occurred to me that I should clarify a statement I made regarding bad behavior in a relationship. I mentioned that too often, women tolerate shabby treatment by men, such as Jennifer Aniston tolerating the ending of the relationship via text messaging.

When a relationship is at the end - and receiving a rather abrupt end, at that, there isn't any "tolerating" because the relationship has ceased. The best one can do at that point is not respond to such caddish behavior and move on.

To elaborate on the issue of tolerating bad behavior, here is one trustworthy rule: Establish relationship boundaries in the beginning. You will be able to maintain the health of a relationship if it is evident early on that you will not tolerate mistreatment.

For instance, imagine you meet a seemingly wonderful young man who makes you laugh and looks like David Beckham. He's all smooth moves and cool friends. He makes a date with you on Friday to meet at a club on Saturday night. He's a no-show. Afterward, he's full of excuses and charms his way back into your life.

I usually give someone a second chance. Life is filled with inconveniences and the trick is separating the honest good excuses from outright lies. But if a person starts to show a track record for inconsiderate or rude behavior, it's best to end the relationship rather than wait for the cell phone drama.

I suspect that Jennifer's relationship with this guy showed early signs of bad behavior, but she tolerated it. It's little wonder that it ended the way it did but few women are blindsided by such behavior. It begins as a leak before the dam bursts and regret floods into a single woman's life. I know. I've been there.

So keep your eyes open at the beginning of a relationship. Notice if a man keeps his word or making excuses all the time. There are times for forgiveness, but also times for a "straighten up and fly right, pal" discussion. Ask God for wisdom because if there is any area we need guidance with, it's our relationships. He will provide.

New "Castitas" Video: Breaking Up Is Hard To Do

I'm slowly getting my life back in order after The Big Move. I will say St. Anthony is getting a good workout as I beseech him to help me find stuff. I tried to be careful with my packing but needless to say, it will take a few more days to unearth everything. (Especially the library book that was due yesterday...)

This video was prompted by the news story of Jennifer Aniston's boyfriend breaking up with her via text message. I was slightly surprised. I'm aware of the whole "friends with benefits" phenomenon where people text an acquaintance to see if they'd be up for an amorous rendezvous. Ending a relationship by sending text over a cell phone is perhaps the flip side of the 21st century's idea of intimacy.

The video is a little over 15 minutes long. I decided to go with Google this time and forgot about their quality. My apologies for that, the extreme lighting, the wailing cicadas in the background...I'm still in a learning curve regarding creating videos. Maybe if you have it on while not watching it will be more enjoyable!

I met a lovely young woman after church this past Sunday and hope to get to know her better. I'm going to be organizing a "real life" meeting for college-aged Catholic women in my area very soon. The purpose would mainly be to provide a stable support group for women who wanted to live chastely, with dignity and self-respect while trusting in God for their future.

Here's the video, cicadas and all!

What I Love About Catholicism: Saints

Today, we celebrate the Feast Day of St. Bernard of Clairvaux Abbot, Doctor of the Church — 1153

When Bernard finished his schooling at nineteen or thereabouts, he had, in addition to the advantages of noble birth and natural talent, the sweetness of temper, wit, and personal charm that make for popularity. Subject to strong temptations of the flesh, he often considered giving up the world, and even forsaking the study of literature, which was one of his greatest pleasures. He felt attracted to the Benedictine monastery at Citeaux,[1] founded fifteen years before by Robert of Molesme, Alberic, and Stephen Harding. One day Bernard knelt in prayer in a wayside church, to ask God's guidance as to his future. On arising all doubt had vanished and he was resolved to follow the strict Cistercian way of life. His uncle, Gaudry, a valiant fighting man, and Bernard's younger brothers, Bartholomew and Andrew, declared they would accompany him, and an appeal was made to their eldest brother, Guy. He, however, had a wife and two children; but when his wife soon after entered a convent, he also joined them. Gerard, another brother, was a soldier, engrossed in his calling; still, after being wounded and taken prisoner, he also heard God's call, and on his release followed the others. Hugh of Macon was also won over, and others who had previously given no thought to the religious life. Such was Bernard's eloquence that within a few weeks he had succeeded in persuading thirty-one Burgundian nobles to go with him to Citeaux. Bernard and his brothers gathered to bid their father farewell and ask his blessing. Only one son was left behind, Nivard, the youngest, and as the party rode away, Guy called to him, "Farewell, little Nivard! You will have all our lands and estates for yourself." "Oh," answered the boy, "then you are taking Heaven and leaving me only the earth! The division is too unequal!" Such was the pervasive spiritual atmosphere of this age of faith. (source: EWTN)

It has taken me some time to embrace the saints of old. One of the earlier lessons I learned from my non-Catholic churches was that Catholics "worshiped Mary and the saints" and this was not Biblical.

Because I had little instruction on how to defend my Catholic faith, I surrendered it. The Bible said that Jesus Christ was the mediator between God and man, so why would we need anyone else? I didn't realize how to distinguish Jesus' role as Redeemer from a saint's intercessory role. It still is taking me some time to absorb this, but I think I'm finally getting it.

Because of Adam's sin, man was separated from God. Throughout the Old Testament, God patiently led His chosen people, Israel, to a carefully prescribed set of laws so that they could repent and make reparation for this sin. As we all know, the Jews had a difficult time keeping the Law. They would fail time after time; and then a godly leader would arise, leading them back to their Adonai.

God, in His infinite mercy, sent His Son, Jesus Christ to do what man would never be capable of doing - redemption. Only Jesus Christ, the perfect Lamb of God, was able to be sacrificed in order to take away the sin of the world.

Saints are men and women who have forsaken the world, took up their cross, and followed Him. They persevered through trials and tribulations, always seeking to glorify God with their heart, mind, and soul. We are all called to be saints.

Now praying to a saint, in my mind, used to mean I was elevating them to the same level of Jesus Christ. Prayer automatically meant worship. But the more I've thought about this, the more I'm beginning to see that prayer is a communication from me, a request or a petition. We are told to make our requests be known to God with confidence, as St. Paul wrote to the Hebrews:

Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. (Hebrews 4:16)

I heard an argument for praying to the saints that went like this: do you ever ask for help from a friend? Do you appreciate it when they think of you and send a letter or call you on the phone? Such is our relationship with saints. We are asking for help because God knows we need it. When I pray to a saint, I am not worshiping that saint for worship is only for God. But I am asking for help, knowing that we are a very large family and all in this struggle for holiness together.

One of the benefits of returning the Catholic church has been this new awareness of the saints. In Hebrews, we are told that a great "cloud of witnesses" surround us.

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrews 12:1)

I find it very interesting that right after mentioning we are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses, we are reminded that it Jesus who is the supreme authority of our faith; not a saint. Can't get any more clearer than that!

Still, we're surrounded by a multitude of witnesses, watching us complete the race, enduring the exercise and overcoming any obstacles toward finishing what we started. We have Jesus Christ, who did finish what He begun when He took the form of man.

Since we are in the midst of the Olympics, what do people do when watching a race? Sit quietly and observe? Of course not. They stand, they cheer, they scream encouragement toward their chosen runner, pressing them on for a victory. When their runner finally crosses that finish line as the winner, they rejoice, savoring that victory almost as much as the one who ran the race.

Our saints know how difficult this life can be. They are encouraging us by their intercession for our needs. In the book of Revelation, we're told that the prayers of the saints fill the bowls brought before the throne of God. (Rev. 5:8, 8:3,4) I will attest to their efficacy. It has been surprising to me how I now truly feel "covered" - a term often used by non-Catholic Christians who covet the intercessory prayers of others. How ironic that after all my years of involvement with intercessory prayer, I now accept the intercession of the heavenly saints.

Intercession doesn't stop at the grave. Thank God for His saints, who continue to petition His throne for our good.

The Deception of Soap Operas

I grew up with a mother who would watch "soap operas" while she did her daily tasks around the house. She'd flip the TV to whichever station had her show and blare it throughout the house while she cleaned, did laundry, and prepared meals. During the summertime, I'd help and eventually started watching soap operas, myself.

Soap operas are, for most women, a guilty pleasure. On the surface, the characters on a soap opera seem to live in a perfect world. For the most part, everyone is thin, beautiful, and have gorgeous clothes. They look so sleek, so smooth, so totally amazing. But as any die-hard fan can tell you, looks go only so far. Beneath the surface lies an ugly world of deceit, manipulation, selfishness, foolishness, and at times - pure evil.

And yet women (and a few men) lap it up, day after day.

Why? When I was in high school, I declared to my mother I was no longer watching soaps because I thought they were stupid. My exact quote: "Mom, soap operas never allow anyone to be happy! As soon as a couple finally finds love, something bad has to happen to tear them apart. It's ridiculous! I'm done!"

For the most part, I was done. I didn't watch soaps in college and then I started working in "the real world" where I was gone during the day and had no VCR to record the shows. I easily forgot there were such things as soap operas.

Today my working schedule is more flexible and I'm often home during lunchtime. One day, while munching a sandwich, I turned on the TV to find...yes, a soap opera. I absentmindedly started watching it, trying to deny I'd probably be sucked in. The next day I did it again, and again, and again. I was embarrassed one day because my husband came home early from work and caught me. I quickly made the excuse that I was just eating lunch and just happened to watch TV and the program just happened to be on. I don't think he bought it.

The soap opera was "The Young and the Restless." It wasn't a show I had ever watched before so it took some time to learn about the characters. Still, I caught on quickly who the players were and started to observe them as though I was an anthropologist who just stumbled on a rare find. I remembered what I said when I was younger and wondered how long the show would go before it would ruin someone's love life.

It didn't take long. Within a few months, they took a promising young couple and used, of all things, the overused ploy of a woman acting as though she was pregnant so she could steal away someone else's fiancee.

I was amazed. On one hand, I figured since I had been away from soaps for about 25 years, the writing would get more sophisticated. Not even close. The writers, in fact, were playing the same tricks they had when I was younger. Bring a couple together, then have the man "accidentally" sleep with another woman so she could break the couple apart. Yawn.

What occurred to me was how soap operas can ruin a single woman's real chances for love if she's not careful. I have no idea how many young single women are tuning in, but if the story lines are an indicator, it would seem the soaps are trying to reach them. Several main characters are in their twenties. But their constant swapping of love interests gets frustrating and confusing. You have to wonder if the characters have any lick of sense at all or simply the slaves of their own desire.

Which brings me to why I think they're detrimental to a person: Soap operas present on the surface a life most would like to live - financially well-off, beautiful, successful. But then the soaps give that lifestyle a nice knife in the back by constantly creating turmoil and anguish. For some fans who lead a very different kind of life, it may give them a sick sort of satisfaction to see that even rich, beautiful people suffer, too. But deep inside, what is the message?

I believe the message is you can't trust success. You can't trust happiness because sooner or later, some tramp is going to stalk you and your beloved and ruin everything. Is it any wonder why some people who love soaps also thrive on drama in their own lives? It's a set-up. It's difficult to find contentment in your own life if you can't trust that something good is not only going to come to you but stay with you.

So, I've sworn off soaps again, this time I hope for good. Even though it was almost an hour of my day, it added nothing to my life. It isn't entertaining to me to watch people suffer. It is why I watched "Melrose Place" years ago and then stopped after a few episodes. (A night-time soap opera...blech.) It is also why I stopped watching "Desperate Housewives" after the first season. TV writers succeed by making characters miserable. Hollywood reasons that no one would want to watch a show where everyone was happy most of the time. Why, that's boring!

So, do I want to fill my life with fictional characters who are unhappy and dealing with constant conflict? No thanks. I think I'll fill it instead with studying the great saints of old and how they overcame trials and tribulations by pursuing God with every molecule of their being.

Now that's far more interesting than some soap opera.

I'm Baaaack! (And How NOT To Do A Move...)

I'm finally (almost) settled in our new townhome. I am extremely grateful for more living space. We really needed it. Before, we were in a tiny apartment with almost two house's worth of possessions between us. Getting married late in life can have a few inconvenient consequences, such as accumulating "stuff" and then marrying someone else who already has accumulated "stuff." Then collect "stuff" together as a married couple. So all our stuff has made us feel...well, rather stuffed.

Thank you to everyone who thought of us in prayer. All I can say is that I can't imagine how much worse it would have been without the intercession of the saints! We did have amazing weather, which was a huge blessing. (Nothing like trying to trudge large, unwieldy boxes in the rain...)

But, seriously? It was crazy. Moving is never on anyone's Top Ten List of Fun Things to Do. ("Hey, Joe...let's say we grab a few boxes and start moving this Labor Day weekend! Don't you just love the smell of packing tape?!") Moving is physically demanding not to mention stressful as we re-orient ourselves to a new environment. Since I'm now in a much better mood, I decided to make a list of how NOT to do a move:

1. Decide that a 30-day notice is for amateurs. You can pull off a move in a week's time, no problem.

2. Packing boxes doesn't take that much time. It's much more important to check your email. You've got peeps, for goodness sakes! Need to keep in touch!

3. Your blog is of the utmost importance so it's vital to keep updating it every day, even though you have boxes to fill. Ditto for the Facebook page because everyone is just dying to know what you're doing this very minute. ("Staring at boxes, needing to be filled...")

4. Speaking of boxes, you really don't need many. Just haul over what you have, empty them, and re-use!

5. Sleep? Who needs sleep? Wake up at 2:30 AM. Empty out more boxes for the last leg of the move the next day. Then drag your tired body throughout the day, punching holes in the walls of the new place with sharp edged objects because you don't have the strength to carefully carry an empty sack, let alone a heavy box.

6. Take time to chat at length with the mailman while under the gun to get out before the ex-apartment's office closes. Find out what his real dreams in life are, including his retirement plans.

7. Forget to check the apartment office hours, which actually changed so when you swing by to drop off the keys, you see a nice, big closed door.

8. Forget to check the open office hours on the weekend. Yes. Changed again.

9. Dolly? Who needs a stinkin' dolly? Real men like to carry boxes one at a time.

10. Forget how heavy clothes can weigh. Forget getting a few extra wardrobe boxes from U-Haul. Forget that the one you currently have has lived through three moves, was stuck in the basement a few years, and has the creases to show for it.

11. Forget that creases in a wardrobe box buckle under weight.

12. Forget how heavy books can be when grouped together. Forget how heavy magazines can be. And why are you keeping old magazines, anyway?

13. Forget purging all unnecessary items from your household like: broken cassette tapes, old books that no longer have any meaning for you, an old stereo system that plays LP's that you insisted on carting around for decades "just in case you wanted to play records again", records that can now be bought on CD's, coffee cups...oy...they deserve a category all their own.

14. Forget that for the past twenty years, you've collected quite a collection of coffee cups because people like to fill them with stuff and give them as gifts. Or they're part of a gift basket. Or a door prize. Or the company which you now curse decided it would be a swell Christmas bonus. At any rate, you now have a collection that could shame the inventory of your local card & gift shop. Forget that you live alone or with one other individual and only need two.

15. Forget that you will never, ever plan on having a dinner party for 50 so you need all those coffee cups. And really, who wants to be swigging coffee from a cup that says, "Deadlines, Schmedlines...I'm Going Shopping!"

16. Forget that you planned on re-gifting those coffee cups. You cheapskate, you.

17. Forget to mark boxes properly so you spend an inordinate amount of time looking for important things - such as your computer speakers.

18. Forget to occasionally vacuum behind things so when you move, you and the few suckers you roped into helping you will be sneezing all over the place.

19. Forget to throw out stuff every once in a while from your fridge, the back of the microwave cart, those stupid cabinets above the refrigerator that are never used. Trust me. The Smithsonian isn't going to want it for their collection of Average Twenty-First Century Americana.

20. Imagine that your car is really an SUV and therefore, can carry much more stuff than a Mini Cooper. Smash everything into every nook and cranny and then pray a police officer doesn't notice and write you up for reckless driving. Who needs rear vision? That's what side mirrors are for.


21. After all that fun, imagine you have the energy of an Olympian and do some thorough cleaning. Don't worry. Your body appreciates the extra challenge.

So much fun that I can't wait to do it again! And if you believe that, I have some property near a flood plain I'd love to show you.

All kidding aside, I really love our new space and plan on living here until the end of the ages. And I'm getting rid of the coffee cups. I promise.

Moving Days.... Happy Birthday to Me!

Well, it's my birthday today and my big present is...packing! Yes, we're moving and although I've been packing off and on for the past week, I still have much more to do.

Today I'll be packing away Old Faithful, here. We hope to have our cable connection again in a few days. So meanwhile, if you're a new visitor, take a look at some older entries or discover some new blogs and websites from the sidebar. I simply love the Catholic presence on the Internet!

If you know of a saint who helps with moving - please lift up a petition for us! As soon as we're settled, I'm going to see if my parish priest can visit and bless our new abode. Meanwhile, God bless you and hope it's sunny wherever you are. :-)

What I Love About Catholicism: Sacred Space

St. Mary of Ostrabrama Roman Catholic Church
in South River NJ

As I was packing away my gazillion books, I came across a unique hand-made volume by a Christian woman who attended the same non-denominational church as me in Charlotte, North Carolina. This book is extremely unique. It is filled with Christian poetry, thought, and "word art" - all examining the question of how our starved souls seek satisfaction. (A little alliteration with my morning coffee...)

This woman is extremely gifted, not only in creating such a book but she is also a musician, and now - has founded a 24/7 prayer center in Charlotte. (I don't think they're quite up to praying 24 hours a day, 7 days a week yet; but it's a goal.) I was happy to see she was still up to her creative adventures.

I thought again about art and faith. It's slightly surprising I haven't talked about this at length yet simply because I am an artist. Art has always held a special meaning for me because it is a part of who I am. I define myself as an artist, although I've not drawn anything in ages. Still, art has been a part of my life ever since I could hold a crayon. I developed my drawing skills throughout junior high and high school, even intending to major in art. My first declared concentration of study was graphic design.

Long story short - I had an older adviser who thought it best to discourage as many students as possible from pursuing art so they wouldn't be "disillusioned" when hit by the "real world." I was one of them. My malleable nineteen-year old ego was not prepared for challenges, and so I made the mistake of believing those who questioned my purpose. I switched majors. God allows such things for a reason and I've benefited in many ways from my degree in Communication Art. However, I find it an endless source of amusement that today I am teaching digital design, which is in essence, graphic design. So my education during those years didn't go to waste, after all, and I'm happy because I'm using the talent God gave me.

During the years when I was involved with non-denominational churches, I was both a member and a leader of a Christian visual artist's group. One of our projects was to install an exhibit at the church, showcasing the group's artwork. We carefully hung paintings and photographs around the lobby area, but nothing was installed in the main sanctuary.

Sanctuary. Catholics have a different understanding of the word. For non-denominational churches, the space they use for worship is not seen as sacred, per se. It is simply an area to gather, a large meeting room, as it were. After the services, the space would usually fill with loud chatter as the churchgoers would greet one another. So although this large space was called a "sanctuary," it didn't hold the same meaning for me as a place for peace and reflection.

Many people appreciated the exhibit and were fascinated with much of the art - especially my co-leader's installation of his own "found objects" work; which consisted of an assortment of objects found in a garbage dump, painted, and arranged so that the entire piece was draped from the outside roof. It was to symbolize how God has taken us all from the garbage heap of life, connected us, and made something beautiful.

What was interesting was the senior pastor's decision to only allow the exhibit to remain for a few weeks. He didn't want any of the art inside the sanctuary, preferring the simple, bland white walls with a few international banners hung from the rafters. He didn't understand how much we crave sacred art and to be honest, neither did I.

Not until I read about the 24/7 prayer Center did I realize how the Catholic church has always known of the need for sacred space and sacred art. When I read of how visitors wept when they went through the prayer center, I understood. They were weeping because a part of their soul which had been crying out for a sacred expression of man's yearning for God - was heard. They wept because within a non-Catholic church, the role of art is given very little recognition.

Non-Catholic churches have a myriad of ways they try to bring art within its chambers. It is no small feat to have a church allow such an exhibit as we had, let alone bless a group for trying. But Catholic churches do not need to wrestle with the question of whether art is "appropriate" or not. We already have artists within our faith-filled lineage that have produced some of the world's greatest masterpieces. Michelangelo, Donatello, Botticelli, and Raphael were just a few of the brilliant artists who brought the Biblical narrative to life. When we gaze upon these great works of art, we are reminded of who God is and His unceasing love for mankind. And if we really ponder it deeply, the understandable response is weeping.

It occurred to me that for many who seek a connection with God apart from entering a Catholic cathedral - only have modern art. Modern art has its moments, but in my opinion, it can't hold a candle to the immense beauty of ancient art. Especially for young people, art is a powerful conveyor of both our desire for God and His desire for us. God has given man the ability to create and that ability, when offered back to Him, can transform him. It shines a light upon all the dark places and when offered as a sacrifice; purifies and elevates us to a place we know that only through the grace of God, we may reside.

As I knelt this morning during Mass in my parish, surrounded by stained glass windows and confronted with a magnificent altar, my thoughts were drawn toward a Holy God who sacrificed His only Son so that we may be saved. I was reminded of how many saints had murmured the same prayers, reciting words that humble and beseech our Heavenly Father for His mercy. I was reminded of God's extraordinary grace for struggling mankind.

This is what sacred space means for me. It is a place to be reminded that we will always, always need God's mercy and that God, in His infinite love, will give it.

A Cornucopia of Book Recommendations!

During Fr. Zuhlsdorf's visit yesterday, I suggested that a great addition to his blog would be a "Must Read" section for converts and reverts. There are so many books available on Catholic apologetics and spiritual formation that it is quite easy to become overwhelmed!

After my return to the Catholic church four months ago, my home has been filled with various books on Catholicism and living the faith. I am a huge bookworm, so devouring books is nothing new. But I had no idea there would be so many!

So, Fr. Z posted a request for book recommendations on his blog and wow - did his readers deliver.

This entry will most likely be updated. I'll post a permanent link to it on the sidebar. Please note, some of these books are obscure or no longer in print. I wasn't able to thoroughly check each one, but tried to find the author where none was originally listed. I first checked with Amazon although anyone could "Google" a title to discover its availability.


So far, here is the list:

Apologetics:

Apologetics and Catholic Doctrine -Archbishop Fulton Sheen
Catholicism and Fundamentalism - Karl Keating
How the Catholic Church Built Western Civilization — Thomas Woods
Belief of Catholics - Ronald Knox
Why Do Catholics Do That: A Guide to the Teachings and Practices of the Catholic Church - Kevin Orlin Johnson
A Short History of the Mass - Alfred McBride
For the Visitor at Mass - Angelus Press
Doors to the Sacred:A Historical Introduction to Sacraments in the Catholic Church - Joseph Martos
Christian Sacraments in a Post-Modern World - Kenan Osborne.
This Is The Faith - Canon Francis Ripley
A Short History of the Catholic Church - Jose Orlandis
Catholic Christianity – Dr. Peter Kreeft
A Shorter Summa - Dr. Peter Kreeft
Summa of the Summa - Dr. Peter Kreeft
Fundamentals of Catholic Dogma – Ludwig Ott
Christ’s Redemptive Sacrifice - William F. Hogan
The Shape of Soteriology - John McIntyre
The Teachings of the Church Fathers - John Willis
Catholicism for Dummies - Father John Trigilio and Father Kenneth Brighenti
The Confessions - Saint Augustine
What Is Truth - John Rist
Dante's Paradise - Tony Esolen
Why I am Still a Christian - Timothy Radcliffe
A Biblical Defense of Catholicism - Dave Armstrong
The Catholic Verses: 95 Bible Passages That Confound Protestants - Dave Armstrong
Where We Got the Bible: Our Debt to the Catholic Church - The Right Rev. Henry G. Graham
Faith of Our Fathers - James Cardinal Gibbons
Why Catholic Bibles Are Bigger: The Untold Story of the Lost Books of the Protestant Bible - Gary G. Michuta
Radio Replies Three Volume Set by Leslie Rumble, Charles M. Carty
Crossing the Tiber: Evangelical Protestants Discover the Historical Church - Stephen K. Ray
Surprised by Truth: 11 Converts Give the Biblical and Historical Reasons for Becoming Catholic - Patrick Madrid (editor) and Foreword by Scott Hahn
Surprised By Truth 2: 15 Men and Women Give the Biblical and Historical Reasons For Becoming Catholic - Patrick Madrid
Surprised by Truth 3: 10 More Converts Explain the Biblical and Historical Reason for Becoming Catholic - Patrick Madrid
Reasons to Believe: How to Understand, Explain, and Defend the Catholic Faith - Scott Hahn
By What Authority?: An Evangelical Discovers Catholic Tradition - Mark P. Shea
The Heresy of Formlessness - Martin Mosebach
We Believe - Mgr. Alfred Gilbey
Lead Kindly Light - Thomas Howard
The Office of Peter and the Structure of the Church - Hans Urs Von Balthasar
Catholicism Christ and the Common Destiny of Man - Henri De Lubac
Spirit of Catholicism - Karl Adam
Apologia pro Vita Sua - Cardinal Newman
Mary and the Fathers of the Church - Luigi Gambero and Thomas Buffer
Conversion and the Catholic Church - G.K. Chesterton
Crossing the Tiber - Stephen K. Ray
Upon This Rock - Stephen K. Ray
Catholic Source Book - Peter Klein
Four Witnesses: The Early Church In Her Own Words - Rod Bennett
Dissent From the Creed; Heresies Past and Present - Richard M. Hogan
The Unexpected Way - Paul Williams (Convert from Buddhism to Catholicism)
The Glories of Mary - Saint Alphonsus
Cosmas, or, The Love of God - Pierre de Calan
Faith and Certitude - Father Thomas Dubay



Spiritual Formation

Triumph - H. W. Crocker III
Orthodoxy - G.K. Chesterton
The Everlasting Man - G.K. Chesterton
Franciscan Prayer - Ilia Delio
A Canticle for Leibowitz - Walter M. Miller
The Way - St. Josemaria Escriva de Balaguer
A Map of Life - by Frank Sheed
Theology and Sanity - Frank Sheed
Theology for Beginners - Frank Sheed
The Ascent of Mount Carmel - St. John of the Cross
Seven Storey Mountain - by Thomas Merton
Heaven, the Heart’s Deepest Longing - Dr. Peter Kreeft
Making Sense Out of Suffering - Dr. Peter Kreeft
The Art of Dying Well (or How to be a Saint, Now and Forever) - Robert Bellarmine



Catechism

Question and Answer Catholic Catechism - Fr. John Hardon
Catechism of the Council of Trent

The Cleveland Blognic With Fr. Zuhlsdorf

Well, there weren't too many fellow bloggers in attendance. In fact, I think it was pretty much Kimberly of Catholic Family Vignettes and myself. Fr. Zuhlsdorf and his host, Fr. Ireland, arrived with a few others from Fr. Ireland's parish. A few were unfamiliar with Fr. Z's blog, which was surprising to me. I suppose I live in a rather insulated world, assuming every Catholic has heard of Fr. Z!

Still, it was a very enjoyable event. Fr. Z shared a few amusing stories about his first experiment with podcasting and what he'd like to do with wacky parishes. (Destroy and pour salt on the ground so nothing every grows there again...) I got my answer to why special vestments are important. (Because it visually reminds us of the separation between the sacred and the profane.)

Fr. Z is a highly personable priest, which some may have gleaned already from listening to his podcasts. But what his podcasts don't reveal is his extreme politeness, sensitivity, and receptivity to strangers. From my many years of contact with "famous" Christians, I can vouch for a certain weariness they carry by the high expectations often forced upon them. When strangers meet a writer, for instance, there is a presumed intimacy they believe exists. It is a delicate exercise to exude both warmth and appreciation for those who are "fans" while still maintaining boundaries. Fr. Z. does this so well that you'd almost think he was your long-lost cousin! For all his profound insights and knowledge, he is extremely approachable. Yes, color me impressed!

Below are some photos from the event. We hope to eventually get Fr. Z to visit our hometown someday. Hilaire, a gracious gentleman who drove for almost 3 hours to get us to Cleveland, especially made Fr. Z smile when he showed him a photo of him and his "Uncle Joe", who was none other than Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger, now our beloved Papa! Hilaire is a funny guy!


Fr. Z confirming that Italian espresso is hands down, the best espresso on the planet.











Fr. Z and Fr. Ireland with a parishioner. Fr. Z must still be thinking about that wacky parish...




Fr. Z and Fr. Ireland















Fr. Z and my friend, Kimberly














Fr. Z with the very funny "Hilaire" (Who will most likely now introduce this photo with the question, "Hey, wanna see a photo of my Uncle John?")
















Yours truly with Fr. Z

Foremost UK Gay Activist Admits There Is No Gay Gene

Not that I ever believed there was a 'gay gene.' However, I find it fascinating that a gay activist actually admitted there is no such gene.

Whenever confronted with the idea that people are "born gay," I have quickly pointed out that God is not going to condemn homosexual behavior and then proceed to create a human being who has no choice in the matter. It simply doesn't make any sense.

I know there are "levels" of same-sex attraction. Those who choose the homosexual lifestyle may indeed have a predisposition toward it. But they're not predestined, which is - as this activist says, a completely different issue.

I'm almost certain this will get very little press. It is unfortunate because there are many homosexuals who truly believe they have no say in the matter. Because they believe they were "born that way," they seek no other solution for understanding their sexuality.

Chastity is for everyone.

Fr. Zuhlsdorf's Visit to Cleveland, Ohio Aug. 9

If you are in the Cleveland area tomorrow, Fr. Zuhlsdorf, owner of the blog, What Does the Prayer Really Say, will be at a South Euclid coffee house on Saturday, August 9 from 10:30 - 12:00 for an informal blognic.

Since I had trouble embedding the Google Map code before, I'll just post the link:

Phoenix Coffee Co. (Mayfield and S. Green Road)

I truly look forward to meeting other Catholic bloggers and lovers of Catholic tradition. God willing, see you tomorrow!

Dawn Eden, "The Thrill of the Chaste," and Chastity in Marriage

I haven't written as much lately because we're in the midst of a move. Ugh. Although I don't enjoy moving per se, it does give one the opportunity to purge and the added anticipation of a new environment. We do not have much room here, so I'm looking forward to having a little more room, especially in the kitchen.

Meanwhile, I've been reading Dawn Eden's The Thrill of the Chaste: Finding Fulfillment While Keeping Your Clothes On. I am in awe of her transparency. She is very honest in sharing her story, no holds barred. From all my years of celibacy and chastity, I can relate. Although at times it can be a difficult calling, it is not impossible. God gives us the strength to endure many things and for singles, enduring the loneliness can be achieved when we lean on Him for support.

I just posted on the Facebook group, "Castitas," a recommendation for this book. As I was typing the message, I started to think of how my call to chastity has changed since marrying.

Before, as a single, I tried to refrain from lusting after men. No small task, given the huge amount of sexploitation this culture imposes upon both sexes. I am not immune, for instance, to the sight of a well-sculpted man or someone who has a smile that could take your breath away. But as I had practiced rejecting certain movies or magazines as a single because of the paths toward temptation they'd bring; so I realized I needed to protect my marriage.

I do this a few ways. First, I never speak negatively about my husband not only in public, but to anyone. If there is an issue I have with him, I bring it to him. I also pray about it, but I figure God and my husband are the only ones to really hear it. Our society has become so used to "venting," that it's become a national sport. So much criticism of others has been paraded as "venting" when in essence, it is gossip and serves no good purpose.

When women gather, it is very easy for the conversation to turn toward husbands and boyfriends and how men overall aren't "stepping up to the plate" in a variety of areas. I'm not real keen on that kind of talk. In fact, I take offense for my brothers because most of the time, they're trying their very best. And some of us ladies aren't exactly berries and cream all the time, either.

Jesus commands us to love one another. Is it loving to be critical of the one person who shares with you the greatest intimacy? We are also instructed to edify and exhort one another. Griping about someone's faults won't build up anyone.

The other decision I made was to knowingly avoid any inappropriate conduct with other men. This included forswearing my love for contra-dancing. (Some of you may be saying "Contra what?...") Contra-dancing is like square-dancing except you have two lines of dancers instead of a square. You always dance with your partner, but then you dance with your neighbor. The lines weave with each other so that you end up dancing with a lot of people.

When I asked my husband if he'd consider joining me in attending a dance event, he flatly refused. When I asked why, he said, "Because I don't want to hold any other woman in my arms but you."

Sigh...how can a lady argue with that?

So because he was honoring me by this response, I honored him by saying no to any future contra-dancing. I had a few of my friends say I should go anyway and have fun - but to me, I wouldn't enjoy it. If my husband's idea of chastity is to not dance with other women, how could I in good conscience minimize that by doing what I wanted to do? I couldn't and I'm so glad I haven't. We have found other activities to do together such as hiking and biking and I'm a happy gal.

One thing that has surprised me is how often married women openly lust after other men. This is not living a chaste life within marriage. It is as though a woman is saying to her husband, "Look. I know I said I was committed to you until the day I die, but hey...I'm still human! I can still appreciate some of God's finest pieces of workmanship when I'm at the gym. No big deal!"

Well, not exactly.

How many times have we given in to temptation? And what proceeds temptation? It's not like I plan on eating half a box of cookies. First, I may see an ad for the cookies. I look at the page, lingering on the luscious images, almost tasting the cookie as I look. Then, I may swing by the grocery store to pick up a few items for dinner. As I pass the aisle for cookies, again I think of the ad. The aisle beckons, telling me I deserve a treat because after all, I'm worth it. (Ugh. I loathe this phrase. That will be for another entry someday...)

How many days have I ended up with a box of cookies because that advertisement won?

I liken it to lust. When a married woman doesn't understand what chastity within marriage means, she can easily be led down the path of temptation until she's in bed with some slimeball who has no qualms about sleeping with a married woman. She has in minutes destroyed something precious, something God intended to be an intimate connection and a reflection of His fidelity to us.

So even when you marry, you must realize boundaries need to be set. And boundaries will always be tested because that's just the way it is. God allows us to be tested to purify us, but He is quick to answer our cries for assistance.

I may write more about this in the future. I realize that I made many of these decisions long before I married. I asked God to give me a man who would appreciate these choices and He answered with a resounding yes. I cherish my husband and thank God for him daily. I think the more we appreciate our loved ones, the more love God gives to us for them. I think that is just wondrous.

Our Lady, Acquainted With Sorrow

I had some moments today when I dealt with my grief over losing my mother. As I thought about Jesus Christ and all the suffering He endured, it occurred to me that between St. Joseph, the Blessed Virgin Mary, and Jesus Christ - it was Mary who grieved a personal loss the most. Jesus Christ certainly had a heavier burden of grief - all of humankind separated from their Creator by sin. But when it comes to personal grief, I'm looking at Mary with new eyes.

She lost her beloved husband; and then had to witness her only Son be humiliated, tortured, and killed right before her eyes. Grief? I can't even imagine. To be forced to witness such brutality to your offspring and not be able to do anything about it is one of the highest tests of one's faith I can imagine.

It is one thing to bear the burden of our own suffering. It is quite another to bear your own son's suffering while knowing you can do nothing to prevent or stop it.

Mary was there with her Son, every step of the way. I am certain that as painful as it was, her presence still gave her Son great comfort and for her, the bond of love held fast even to the end.

Although I have been leaning on my Lord for strength to get through the sorrow, I also realized that Mary can be a very important intercessor for me, identifying with my grief since she herself had endured so much.

And isn't it something that the month of August is dedicated to the Immaculate Heart of Mary? Amen and amen.

Stupidest Piece of Logic I've Seen In a Long, Long Time...

So. Some genius in Australia has claimed that babies are a "drag" on the economy.

Yes. Even though they are faced with a shortage of workers, those who have babies are seen as "dragging" the economy down because the women will be taken from the workforce as they stay home and care for the babies, and consequentially, prevent tax money from going toward social security. Supposedly the number of births really won't make a dent in the problem anyway.

I would love to see the Catholic church in Australia respond to this.

Knights of Columbus Launching 'Fathers For Good'

At the moment, I'm knee-deep in packing boxes. I am listening live to the special Knights of Columbus Mass for their 'Fathers For Good' launch. The music is just glorious. Simply stunning...

If you're reading and can get to an EWTN broadcast either TV or radio, it is well-worth it.

God bless the Knights of Columbus!

Sunday Evening Reflections on the Headcovering

Today was another gorgeous summer's day - brilliant blue skies filled with soft cotton-candy clouds. I attended Mass at my "other" parish, which is to say it's straight-up Novus Ordo and hold the felt banners.

I'm not sure if I've mentioned this before, but I do wear a head covering even at a Novus Ordo Mass. I was convicted about this when I read about another Catholic woman doing the same thing. (Forgive me, I have forgotten the blog's name.) She usually attended the Traditional Latin Mass but one day had to attend a regular NO. She concluded that covering her head for one type of celebration while not another was rather inconsistent with the purpose of the headcovering. So, she wore her mantilla to the Novus Ordo.

I pondered that one. I realized God was presenting me with an interesting challenge. It had taken me years to finally be open to embracing this teaching from 1 Corinthians 11. I was able to finally joyfully offer this up to God in worship when I discovered the Traditional Latin Mass on my own. It felt very right to me to do so and I was encouraged to see younger women embracing this practice.

But in a "regular" Mass? Despite being a little hesitant, I decided to do it. However, instead of wearing the mantilla draped across my head, I tie it in a little scarf. Today I tucked the end in the back to create a snood-like effect. I liked the look.

What does it do for me? I can't speak for my other headcovering sisters, but will share my own experience. It humbles me before the Lord. In 1 Corinthians 11, a covered woman honors her husband and clearly sends a message that she understands the hierarchical authority that God has ordained. Even though I was the only woman in a congregation of almost 500 with her head covered, I didn't regret it for one nano-second.

I don't cover my head for anyone's approval. I cover it because I am convicted by 1 Corinthians 11 and it is a sign to God that I'm giving obedience some thought and effort. When my head is covered, it is as though it is an intimate veil that reminds my spirit we are now on holy ground. Distracting thoughts do flit about my head, but the veil usually keeps me focused. Sometimes I'll say inwardly, "I'm not here to think about this right now. I'm hear to focus on God." My headcovering is like the lines of a highway - it keeps me on track.

It also softens me. Now some who are my acquaintances may say I'm pretty soft already, but my husband could tell you a different story. After all, the man lives with me and sees me in my good as well as not-so-good moments. When I wear a headcovering, it challenges me to reach a little higher, persevere a little longer, and give a little more. Those who wear headcoverings are already attracting attention, and much of it is critical. When you know eyes are upon you, it is certainly a strong deterrent for un-Christlike behavior. (I need to say this is exactly why my car doesn't have any Christian bumper stickers. I still drive like an idiot and I certainly don't want God to get the blame for that one.)

One thing I have noticed is a subtle appreciation from men. I know they understand the submission to Scripture in wearing a headcovering. I'm not sure though, if they understand how it breaks a woman's pride to do so. Maybe they do. All I know is that we humans are a prideful bunch. God breaks the pride of man in many ways. For women, the headcovering is part of that breaking.

But it is such a good breaking! Because only after we have fully submitted ourselves to the Potter's hands can He create anything useful of us. Being pliable is part of the process.

So this is how wearing a headcovering has affected me. I've been doing it now for four months and I feel just as passionate about it, if not more so. I know it's not an easy decision for a woman to do, but I would like to ask any woman who has questions about it to pray and ask God for understanding. I admit I'm pretty hard-headed when it comes to obedience and many times, have said grudgingly to God, "Well, okay...if You insist...I guess I'll try it." (Like I'm doing Him a favor. Yeesh!)

But thank God that He is so loving and patient with us! His generosity knows no bounds! Whenever I've given Him just a fraction of willingness, He quickly releases so much grace to not only embrace what He has called me to do, but the very passion to do it - that I can only bow before Him; humbled and shocked that He still puts up with me.

Our Heavenly Father is like that. Totally committed to shaping us into the likeness of His Son. Isn't that just the most incredible thing in the world?

I hope you had a very blessed Sunday and loved on Jesus in a big way. :-)

On a Lighter Note: Peanut Butter Sandwiches

My husband likes to tease me for my weird preference of having a peanut butter and dill pickle sandwich on occasion. It really is a great sandwich! I was introduced to this unique flavor combo when I was in high school.

I stopped by a lunch table to chat up a fellow student. I noticed there was something green in her peanut butter sandwich. Intrigued, I asked what was in it.

"Pickles!" She happily exclaimed.

"Ewww, pickles! Gross!" I concluded.

"Hey," she said, blissfully munching away. "Don't knock it 'til ya tried it." She then proceeded to break off a portion and handed it to me. Since my parents taught me to never say I didn't like anything until I tried it, I reluctantly brought it to my mouth and bit into the strange concoction.

Surprisingly, it tasted great and my friend was delighted she had won another soul to the Church of the Peanut-Butter-Dill-Pickle Sandwich.

Now my husband? He's even weirder.

To wit:

Recently I was on a Salt 'n Vinegar Potato Chip kick. He decided one day to crumble a few of those chips on top of the peanut butter and have himself a wonderful PB and salty, vinegary potato chippy sort of sandwich. He proclaimed it delicious.

Today, we had no chips. Instead he sprinkled a few Mint M&M's on the peanut butter and again, declared it genius.

And he thinks I'm weird...

The P.Z. Myers Mess and A Call For Intellectual Honesty

I've been aware of the outrageous attacks lately on the Eucharist. I first became aware of this when I heard of the young college student who thought it would be fun to spit out the communion wafer to show a friend and then leave the church without consuming it. If that wasn't bad enough, a Minnesota college professor decided to up the ante by bragging that he would show some real desecration of the Eucharist on his blog. He did.

When I heard of these developments, I was both saddened and angry. Saddened that someone who doesn't ascribe to Christianity would have to jump through so many hoops in order to show their revilement - and angry they can't abide by their own logic and just ignore something they don't agree with.

What is it they tell Christians? "If you don't like it, change the channel." If we don't like something, we're expected to look the other way, avoid frequenting whichever film may offend, or generally divert our attention from anything culturally rude or insensitive.

So why is it they can't leave Catholicism alone? So what if a bunch of people believe the Eucharist is the Body of Jesus Christ? Why can't they just shrug and go about their business? Oh, how I would love for an intellectually honest atheist to answer that last one.

But that's the point. People like Professor Myers cannot be intellectually honest nor fair when it comes to their own hatred. Christians are not surprised when the world shows its contempt for their faith. However, what is surprising is how passionately loyal such opponents are to their own ideal of freedom but yet will exhibit such hypocrisy when faced with something they don't agree with; which usually is anything having to do with moral absolutism.

I deliberated whether I wanted to get involved with this fiasco or just let it pass. I decided to throw my hat in the ring. Below is a copy of the email I sent to University of Minnesota Morris' Chancellor Jacqueline Johnson. I also copied UM President Robert Bruininks. I don't expect a response. They've obviously washed their hands of any responsibility. But I have reached my limit with the double-standard promoted by universities.

My email:

*****

August 2, 2008

Dear Chancellor Johnson,

I have no idea if you will read this but knew I needed to write regarding the latest action by Professor Myers. My frustration stems not only from the standpoint of someone who holds certain tenets of faith dear, but as someone who considers herself intellectually honest – and it is this honesty that hangs in the balance for both the University of Minnesota Morris, and every self-respecting higher institution of education.

Professor Myers’ decision to “desecrate” a communion wafer was only the end result of his virulent hatred of anyone who believes in a Higher Power other than self. He is on a mission. The argument that since this occurred on his blog and thus, exempt from any university reprimand - is weak.

It is intellectually dishonest and I will tell you why. The internet has become both the medium and the message. Anyone who is taking a paycheck from a company realizes the strings may be long or short – but still they are attached to those who boldly proclaim their opinion. Yes, people have been fired from their jobs before for inappropriate content on a blog.

Is it censorship, which higher education rightly abhors? It depends. But more importantly, when do you think the line has been crossed between verbal abuse and physical abuse?

Abusive language is something most thinking individuals try to curtail. Most Americans are more aware than ever of “offensive language.” Those who call themselves progressive will go to the mat for the weaker individuals in society and are angry when they see someone belittled or bullied.

How is it this situation is any different?

You have what to many, is simply a piece of bread. But to many Catholics, they hold this sacred. Why is it acceptable to abuse them? Why is it acceptable to shift the conversation from a cerebral argument to a physical assault? Would this be acceptable if it were done to a woman, or any other religion or group?

I can tell you this. Muslims made a racket over cartoons of Muhammad, even to the point of issuing fatwas. Catholics don’t have fatwas. But they do have money. However, as tempting as it is to focus on the possibility of Catholics withholding funds from your university over this appalling incident, I’ll refrain. Instead, think of the type of environment this is now creating in the classrooms.

Professor Myers is very vocal about becoming more hateful and argumentative. You’ve already seen the extent to which he will go in order to make his point. How comfortable is a student now to attend his class, knowing his extreme prejudice? Can he in all honesty disengage himself from his own brand of hate and evaluate fairly a student of faith? Especially when he is more than willing to show such hostility and abuse publicly?

From his blog regarding the ongoing debate of Intelligent Design, which ironically, calls for his own brand of censorship:

The only appropriate response should involve some form of righteous fury, much butt-kicking, and the public firing of some teachers, many school board members, and vast numbers of sleazy, far-right politicians … I say, screw the polite words and careful rhetoric. It’s time for scientists to break out the steel-toed boots and brass knuckles, and get out there and hammer on the lunatics and idiots.

P.Z. Myers, Pharyngula, Get meaner, angrier, louder, fiercer, March 1, 2007

Your call, Chancellor. I’m all for spirited discourse but Professor Myers wants to relegate it to a blood-sport. Although he wears antagonism as a badge of honor, he wields an unfair advantage. It’s not just a case of an atheist guy swigging a few beers with his pals, ranting about the idiocy of faith. He is a teacher who holds the power to either pass or fail a student. (Not to mention his influence with the department.)

With all of the programs and advocacy groups working to end hatred and abuse in our society, do you truly want your university to continue to be a part of the problem? Or the solution? If firing seems too drastic, at least make a more public denunciation of such behavior. Otherwise, UMM is just one more institution eroding civil discourse in our society - until no civility will be left.

Latest Pop Hit: "I Kissed a Girl"

When I first heard of this song, I thought they were talking about Jill Sobule's "I Kissed a Girl" from 1995. I was wondering why everyone was making such a fuss out of a song that had been around for over ten years.

Well, it wasn't her song. It is a song from a girl named Katy Perry who decided to record a pop song by the same title. I was unaware of this girl until I received an email from Christopher West's site that featured a video by Christopher talking about it. (You have to register with the site in order to view his video.)

A few thoughts.

First, bi-sexuality is nothing new nor is the attempt to make it "hip." In 1989, I re-visited my college campus and stopped by the student union center. As I passed a glass display, I was shocked to see a large poster depicting two nude women in an intimate embrace. They were photographed from the side, but the white woman and black woman had their arms and legs wrapped around each other, sealing their union with a passionate kiss.

I realized then that the gay movement was putting forth a great deal of effort to seduce as many young people as possible into a sexually ambiguous lifestyle. If they could not recruit someone to be gay, at least they could influence them to be bi-sexual.

Young women are well aware of what a "turn-on" this is for men. For many men, watching two women paw each other is a fantasy. I don't think I've ever met a woman who was turned on by watching two gay men kiss but it only underscores the differences between male and female sexuality. When I was in my twenties, I remember the clubs were filled with women dancing sensually with each other, knowing they could get immediate attention from men for doing so.

And that to me is the point of Katy Perry's so-called "hit." It's to gain attention. Like artists before her who defiled sacred objects to grab headlines, Katy Perry has created a song she knew would generate controversy. The fact that she was raised in a Christian home and originally began her singing career with Christian gospel music only makes such a song as "I Kissed a Girl" more tragic.

I won't repeat the lyrics but will say my heart grieves for this girl. As I prayed the rosary this morning, I meditated upon the Sorrowful Mysteries. During the Fourth Mystery (Jesus Carrying His Cross), my eyes teared up as I realized the pain and humiliation He endured in order to free us from what Katy Perry was celebrating.

Sexuality apart from God's divine order is sin. Our bodies were not created to be used by our fickle whims but to reflect the mysterious and the holy. People like Katy Perry minimize our body's purpose by selfishly focusing on a fleeting moment of carnal pleasure. So what if women are "soft?" So what if women are "attractive." Does that justify rebelling against the natural order of creation because it's "hip?"

Apparently in Katy's world, the answer is yes.

"Angela M." asked in the combox about the pervasive depression that often accompanies a homosexual lifestyle. Believe me, I've witnessed that depression from my years of friendship with gay men. Psychologists would likely have a laundry list of why it is so but God makes it simple. It is because men and women who pursue a same-sex attraction lifestyle are rebelling against God's divine natural order of creation. If an artist tried to be an accountant, how frustrating would it be to create financial spreadsheets? Very, and there are plenty of artists who would agree.

Our spirits are housed within a physical body. God placed our spirits within our bodies for a reason. When a person rebels against the house God gave them, there will be misery. No matter how much society tells this person they can change houses and be happier - it's a lie. Sure, a woman could have sex-change or simply decide to live her life as a lesbian - but is she truly happy? I've not met one completely satisfied homosexual. None. And I've met a lot.

This is why I believe there is such turmoil within the "gay community." There is no rest for them, no satisfaction. They continue to pursue more government legislation to justify their lifestyles but do you notice it's never enough? The courts grant them "equal-rights" status in employment and housing, but that wasn't enough. They have been given the "right" to propagandize the schools but that isn't enough. They have pushed for more of a presence in films and TV shows but that isn't enough.

The religious institutions they've hated with a passion for decades is now their next target as they demand not only acceptance, but validation. How ironic that for the activists - who prided themselves on a refusal to conform to tradition - now want tradition to bless them. It is intended as a slap in the face for religion while the activists eagerly anticipate the church's humiliation.

But all of that won't be enough. It never will be because the homosexual lifestyle is a betrayal of the body. We did not create our bodies. God did. And until the person who struggles with homosexuality accepts that they are not the Creator, they will forever be depressed and despondent. Who has ever fought against God and been happy? And who fought against God with all his might and ended up getting kicked out of heaven?

I cannot end this entry without saying that this, this is why Jesus Christ came to earth! He came to set the record straight. He came to free us from mortal sin. He came to remind us that God is God and we are not.

There is such joy and contentment when we embrace the Truth of God. Instead of believing the devil's lie that it is oppression - know it is anything but oppression. It is freedom!

Our journey in these bodies are brief but our spirits are eternal. I pray that those who "play" with the very serious nature of sin, as Katy Perry is doing, will quickly wake up to the reality of God's love - and judgement.

Have mercy on our souls, oh Lord.