January 31, 2004
More On Presidential Selection
When I actually decided to answer a couple of the questions about PACs (with whom I find myself only in mixed agreement, NAACP, ACLU, etc.) I got results that were even more surprising. Obviously this just tells me to pack up my vote and write in Smockmomma or JCecil3--cause there ain't no way
2-9 are getting my vote the way things stand now.
Your Results:
1. Your ideal theoretical candidate. (100%) Click here for info
2. Kucinich, Rep. Dennis, OH - Democrat (67%) Click here for info
3. Kerry, Senator John, MA - Democrat (55%) Click here for info
4. Sharpton, Reverend Al - Democrat (53%) Click here for info
5. Dean, Gov. Howard, VT - Democrat (49%) Click here for info
6. Edwards, Senator John, NC - Democrat (48%) Click here for info
7. Clark, Retired General Wesley K., AR - Democrat (46%) Click here for info
8. Lieberman, Senator Joe, CT - Democrat (44%) Click here for info
9. Bush, President George W. - Republican (43%) Click here for info
10. Libertarian Candidate (29%) Click here for info
11. Phillips, Howard - Constitution (13%) Click here for info
January 30, 2004
On Triumphalism
My thanks to T. S. O'Rama who has pointed out a lack of clarity in some comments that I left chez Alicia. It seems that I somehow managed to give the impression that "Steven Riddle seems to see triumphalism as saying what you are thinking."
What I intended to say, and apparently did not make clear, is not that triumphalism is "saying what you are thinking." Rather the worst aspects of the thing meant by the derogatory connotation of "triumphalism" is the kind of in-your-face, I-told-you-so, rhetoric that often accompanies it. There are perfectly civil and courteous means of expressing any thought you have.
The specific example I used was some of the rhetoric seen in various places accompanying the November Debacle in the Episcopalian Church. I quite wrongly charged Fr. Jim with something that "smacked of triumphalism." But I had grown overly senstive to the blasé and callous statements that amounted to "What can you expect from a bunch of heretics?"
I liken it to being on the other side of the rhetoric as when during the height of the sexual abuse scandal we were often hearing, "What can you expect from a religion of woman-hating, self-loathing, non-marrying, clergy." It does not feel good to be on that side of triumphalism.
Moreover, I need to make clear, this only is associated with the derogatory connotation of the word. It has nothing to do with the denotation of the word at all.
So my bottom line is that the worst aspects of triumphalism lay not in the doctrine or theory but in its discourteous practice and the lack of charity that often accompanies its demonstration. There is a qualitative difference between saying "Serves you right for that mess during the reign of Henry the Eighth." And, "The separation from the Church over disagreement on one point of doctrine necessarily paved the way for future disagreements of which this is the latest demonstration." Even then, unless requested, such an explanation should not be offered until after such time as you have tried to help console the person who is reeling from a substantial blow to their worldview. St. Josemaria Escriva reminds us that one of the seventeen evidences of a lack of humility is:"to give your opinion when it has not been requested or when charity does not demand it."
You can say what is on your mind, but you can say it in a way that demonstrates what you mean without detracting from the dignity of the person or their belief (however incorrect it may be) and in a way that can be more healing and charitable than a simple record of the error.
Hope that clears up my intent. I did not mean to say you shouldn't speak what you think (although there are times when this is true as well) but that such speech should take place with consideration and courtesy. I think I'm sensitve over this issue because more than anything else, I want people to express what they're thinking in a way that invites conversation and even vigorous debate but which encourages charity and respect. I want to hear what people are thinking--but I want to hear the substance of it, not the surface of it--reasoning not sloganeering.
In the Interest of Complete Disclosure
Results picking the best approximation of the truth available in the answers:
Well, I'll swan! Y'all are *Barbie and Kenny* of
the Grand Ole Opry Collector's Set. Chances are
y'all will be hitched forever...or at least
until the cows come home.
Which Ken & Barbie Couple Do You Belong To?
brought to you by Quizilla
Presidential Selector Surprises
From Pax Nortona a link to this Presidential Candidate Selector. Try it. You may be surprised as I was. Do note, however, that my top rated real candidate didn't just barely broke 50%. Indicative I think of my ambivalence. Also indicative of the fact that for the most part I don't think presidential candidates should be beholden from the start to any special interest groups. (See the latter half of the quiz.)
1. Your ideal theoretical candidate. (100%) Click here for info
2. Kucinich, Rep. Dennis, OH - Democrat (56%) Click here for info
3. Bush, President George W. - Republican (52%) Click here for info
4. Sharpton, Reverend Al - Democrat (46%) Click here for info
5. Kerry, Senator John, MA - Democrat (46%) Click here for info
6. Lieberman, Senator Joe, CT - Democrat (39%) Click here for info
7. Dean, Gov. Howard, VT - Democrat (38%) Click here for info
8. Libertarian Candidate (38%) Click here for info
9. Edwards, Senator John, NC - Democrat (36%) Click here for info
10. Clark, Retired General Wesley K., AR - Democrat (34%) Click here for info
11. Phillips, Howard - Constitution (18%) Click here for info
Pro-Choice v. Pro-Abortion
I read somewhere recently a statement that implied that no one was pro-abortion. (Was it at Jeanne's?) And initially that made a certain amount of sense to me. I could buy the fact that very few people actually thought of abortion as a "best practices" procedure.
However, I am not so certain when I examine the issue closely. When anyone speaks on the issue (and of course all we really get is sound bites) the only thing I tend to hear is a recommitment to "protect a woman's right to choose" (repugnant enough as it stands). However, where are the politicians who are explaining how we will help that woman have a child and still maintain a reasonable quality of life. Statistics show us that single mothers sit as a majority at the very base of our economic scale. True, not all single mothers are impoverished and we don't understand the full complexities of what causes these conditions of poverty. However, the statistics would seem to suggest that young single women who have children are likely to fare poorly.
Is it any wonder that a scared teenager might seek an abortion (perhaps with the collusion of boyfriend and even parents)? How then does a supposedly "pro-choice" politician make the choice for keeping the child viable? How does such a politician suggest we remove the poverty stamp from such an arrangement? I have heard nothing.
Hearing nothing causes me to think that pro-choice is pro-one-choice, not really about providing opportunities to make the right decision. If that is the case, a politician has no right to claim that they are "pro-choice." They are pro-abortion. And of course we have all recognized that.
But there are still those who say that the label unjustly stigmatizes people who in conscience are against abortion but who are stalwart defenders of the right to choose.
Well, then, my reply would be--truly defend the right to choose. Tell us how you would support women who make the right choice. Tell us how you would help the poor and downtrodden. Tell us how you would make life better for these oppressed. For until such a politician does so, he or she is not pro-choice, and certainly not pro-woman. They are pro-abortion.
On the other hand, I hear too much about removing the (non-existant) right to abortion from the pro-life side and not enough about what should be done to help. I don't think we mean to be so callous, but it sometimes appears that we are so focused on bringing a child into the world that everything else blurs out--permanently. Once the child is born, how will it be cared for? Who will care for the mother of the child? How will the family be nurtured and made strong? We need to remember than in most cases the person having the child has already demonstrated that they are not strong on making good choices. How do we help them understand and learn to make better choices for themselves and for their families?
Frankly, I'm sick to death of hearing about pro-death politicians and pro-death legislation, with all the frothing and fomenting that goes with it. We are all pro-death until we devise schema that allow unfortunate individuals pushed to the edge a chance to truly choose life. Merely outlawing abortion is insufficient. I need to hear along with this passion for saving the unborn a passion for saving their mothers, their families, and their lives down the road. I know it's there. I just don't hear enough about it.
It is exceedingly worthwhile to work for the elimination of abortion. But while we do so we do well to remember that we need to have facilities, institutions, and programs in place that will aid struggling young mothers and their children. This is true even when the mother decides to give her child up for adoption. Often a pregnancy in a young life has disrupted education, family life, and stability for the young mother. What will we do for these young people? Are we prepared at this point to receive and accommodate the enormous needs that must be met if we could stop the abortion machine?
Let us truly be prolife then, moving forward with a two pronged foray. Do not let our rhetoric be solely, "Stop abortion now," but let it also convey a notion of loving, caring for, and nurturing young mothers and children. Let us be seen as not merely opposing, but building something positive for the future.
A Useful Reminder from Abbot Vonier
from A Key to the Doctrine of the Eucharist
Abbot VonierAnyone who believes in the Eucharist, as every Catholic Theologian does, grants enough to that external thing in the supernatural sphere--the sign, to make him ready for more. If under the appearance of bread and wine there can be the Body and Blood of Christ, Saint Thomas, the most honest and logical of all thinkers, will say that under baptismal water thre also can be the power of the Holy Spirit, so that baptismal water , or any other sacramental sign, is not only an infallible token of God's activity in the souls of men, it is more. Water, chrism, and words of absolution, all contain a participated power from Christ. (p. 45)
from Zaccheus Press
And I will note that while Tom of Disputations is reading this book, it is not nearly so daunting a prospect as that fact would suggest. I, too, am reading it, though I'll grant you probably much more slowly, and understanding it well. Vonier is a fairly lively writer with a good sense of rhythm and some excellent examples and metaphors. So don't let the title deceive you--this is a most excellent book for the average Catholic who is seeking to understand the faith.
Prayer Requests 1/30/04
Praise:
Franklin is back home and the family is reunited, his dad seems to be doing better.
Christine is already having people look at the house that she must sell in the next few months in order to join Gordon in Louisiana. (simultaneous rejoicing and sorrow)
Prayers:
For Christine and Gordon, who are presently separated by a great distance. For Christine as she prepares the house for sail, that it may go smoothly with her and the sale proceed as quickly as may be necessary.
For all who are suffering from marital problems, most particularly those in our own families or communities, that the Lord may intervene and remind them that a marriage is of three persons.
For Dylan's return to health and return to us.
For Shirley: The hospital has thrown her out and she has no consistent nursing care for a very serious head injury.
For the local Carmelite Chapters that the visit from the provincial during the next two weeks is fruitful and helpful to their growth and development.
For Franklin's mom who has long been dependent upon Bill (his dad) for day to day support and now is really feeling the crisis
For M'Lynn in her present domestic crisis, that all works out both in Court and in the new job possibility
For mothers and families that struggle with autism and autistic related disabilities: particularly for M'Lynn, Melissa, Christine, and Betty.
For Father Benedict Groeschel, for complete recovery
For Athan, an 18 month old child in North Carolina who suffers from a digestive disorder that doctors determine its nature and help to remedy it; for peace and comfort for Athan's family.
For families that desire more children
For the conversion or return of spouses and loved ones to the Catholic Church, most particularly for Amanda's husband
For Audrey, who is battling anorexia, and to her family which is suffering through very difficult times.
For T.S. O'Rama's Grandmother who is experiencing a very difficult change in living arrangements
For Jeanetta's friend Mike who is battling non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma
For Karen Marie Knapp as she recovers from her recent hospitalization.
For the men and women of the American Armed forces in Iraq and Afghanistan and for their families, may the Good Lord provide sustenance, support, compassion, and love that these separated families might continue to grow in strength and love.
Special Prayer Projects:
(1) Chris Keith, the young lady whose biopsy went poorly got the results of that biopsy--carcinoma of the liver. The cancer is metastatic from colon cancer. Surgery has taken place to treat the colon cancer.
I paraphrase her mother:
"We [members of the family] are standing on the Rock and are rock solid. We are all okay and we are looking for a few prayer warriors to help us in this battle." Because this mother means so much to me for the great good she has done for my friends, I plan to stand with her and her family in this battle, and I invite you all to join me. Expect to hear about this on and off over the next few months.
(2) For Katherine's Mom as she undergoes chemotherapy--that the treatment is successful and her mother comes through this ordeal with a deeper sense of God's abiding love for her.
(3) For Katherine and Franklin, Janet and Louis, Bill Doran, and for all who are seeking employment and suffering through difficult times as they wait.
(4)Healthy Pregnancies and good and safe deliveries: From Davey's Mom: I am with child once again and could use prayers for a healthy pregnancy. For Suki, for a healthy pregancy and a safe delivery. For Ashli and her child that doctors may find a way to help her carry her young one to term.
January 29, 2004
Two Pieces That Really Helped Make My Day
First this delight from Lee Ann:
Ah, grape plastic laminate nature. How many odes have the poets directed to your easy-clean beauty? Because nothing says “nature” like grape plastic laminate.
O fair nature in grape plastic glory
What wondrous laminate beauty sublime!
And this important New Item from Father Jim:
Decomposing whale explodes on Taiwan street
Go, enjoy.
Okay, I Admit It, I Saw the Pattern. . .
. . .and manipulated the outcome. Anything to be associated with Shakespeare. Though I have to say all of the couples are . . . uh . . . interesting?
You are Ken & Barbie as the star crossed lovers
Romeo Montague and Juliet Capulet. Thanks to
the invention of instant communication, your
love may be as timeless as your tale.
Which Ken & Barbie Couple Do You Belong To?
brought to you by Quizilla
Peony's Pride and Prejudice
For those who haven't encountered yet, please consider joining Peony's group reading of Pride and Prejudice and commenting on it. I might be a fellow-traveller or silent observer as I'm not certain I can maintain the reading load with my own optional reading, work, and two other book groups. But we'll see.
Smockmomma for President!
Hey, SHE volunteered below! And frankly looking at the vast field running, I don't see any alternative (except maybe Elinor Dashwood who evidently has already garnered a few write-in votes in previous elections).
Prayer Requests 1/29/04
Cold and chill, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever.
Dew and rain, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever.
Frost and chill, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever.
Ice and snow, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever. (Daniel 3:67-70)
(Please forgive me one more day of this praise and thanksgiving--the Lord has laid some weather upon us this week.)
Praise:
Franklin is back home and the family is reunited, his dad seems to be doing better.
Christine is already having people look at the house that she must sell in the next few months in order to join Gordon in Louisiana. (simultaneous rejoicing and sorrow)
Prayers:
For Christine and Gordon, who are presently separated by a great distance, that Christine will be able to bear up under all that must be done in the next few months. Pray especially for Heather that the coming transition might be easy and smooth for her.
For Christine as she prepares the house for sail, that it may go smoothly with her and the sale proceed as quickly as may be necessary.
For all who are suffering from marital problems, most particularly those in our own families or communities, that the Lord may intervene and remind them that a marriage is of three persons.
For Dylan's return to health and return to us.
For Shirley: The hospital has thrown her out and she has no consistent nursing care for a very serious head injury.
For the local Carmelite Chapters that the visit from the provincial during the next two weeks is fruitful and helpful to their growth and development.
Please continue prayers for Linda's recovery from the surgery and return to work this week. Also prayers for a special need for our family right now would be appreciated.
For Franklin's mom who has long been dependent upon Bill (his dad) for day to day support and now is really feeling the crisis
For M'Lynn in her present domestic crisis, that all works out both in Court and in the new job possibility
For Tom of Goodform's father-in-law who has been diagnosed with a stroke--for full recovery and for no recurrence of the affliction.
For mothers and families that struggle with autism and autistic related disabilities: particularly for M'Lynn, Melissa, Christine, and Betty.
For Athan, an 18 month old child in North Carolina who suffers from a digestive disorder that doctors determine its nature and help to remedy it; for peace and comfort for Athan's family.
For Father Benedict Groeschel, for complete recovery
For families that desire more children
For the conversion or return of spouses and loved ones to the Catholic Church, most particularly for Amanda's husband
For Kairos Guy for a job possibility.
Por favor, le ruego una oracion por la proteccion de mis hijos Michael y Francis, que la Virgen los guie siempre y que me ilumine para ser una buena madre.Gracias con todo mi corazon. Antonia
Translation per Alicia (thank you): Please, requesting a prayer for the protection of my children Michael and Francis, that the Virgin will always guide them, and that she (the Virgin) will light my path to be a good mother. Thank you with all my heart.
Please pray for St. Joseph's youth group and their upcoming summer trip, including the planning. Please pray for all who God wants to come to fill our three buses and especially for Gina, Ann, Fr. Piche, Fr. Wilson and the other priest - for protection and for a fruitful trip.
For Audrey, who is battling anorexia, and to her family which is suffering through very difficult times.
For T.S. O'Rama's Grandmother who is experiencing a very difficult change in living arrangements
For Jeanetta's friend Mike who is battling non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma
For Karen Marie Knapp as she recovers from her recent hospitalization.
For the men and women of the American Armed forces in Iraq and Afghanistan and for their families, may the Good Lord provide sustenance, support, compassion, and love that these separated families might continue to grow in strength and love.
Special Prayer Projects:
(1) Chris Keith, the young lady whose biopsy went poorly got the results of that biopsy--carcinoma of the liver. The cancer is metastatic from colon cancer. Surgery has taken place to treat the colon cancer.
I paraphrase her mother:
"We [members of the family] are standing on the Rock and are rock solid. We are all okay and we are looking for a few prayer warriors to help us in this battle." Because this mother means so much to me for the great good she has done for my friends, I plan to stand with her and her family in this battle, and I invite you all to join me. Expect to hear about this on and off over the next few months.
(2) For Katherine's Mom as she undergoes chemotherapy--that the treatment is successful and her mother comes through this ordeal with a deeper sense of God's abiding love for her.
(3) For Katherine and Franklin, Janet and Louis, Bill Doran, and for all who are seeking employment and suffering through difficult times as they wait.
(4)Healthy Pregnancies and good and safe deliveries: From Davey's Mom: I am with child once again and could use prayers for a healthy pregnancy. For Suki, for a healthy pregancy and a safe delivery. For Ashli and her child that doctors may find a way to help her carry her young one to term.
January 28, 2004
Can a Catholic in Good Conscience Support a Democrat?
I write this with some trepidation knowing the streams of vitriol it can unleash. But I also know that the advantage of swimming about in a backwater is that I can say pretty much any outrageous thing I care to and very, very few will notice or make comment. And that is good because it gives me breathing space to consider very difficult matters.
Personally I have not read the blogs that may assert the contrary notion (to the above title), but I have it on good authority that they are out there.
Speaking for myself the answer is a resounding, "No!" In other words, my conscience would not allow me to do so. However, I am not every other person. I have my own unique conscience and God-given experiences, my own understandings, and my own interpretations of the world. These are not universals, nor are they completely accessible to anyone else. And it is ultimately presumptious of me to determine what another's conscience necessarily dictates.
But let's qualify that immediately by saying from my point of view a Catholic in good conscience can't really support a Republican either. And again, I may only speak for my own conscience. Knowing that the candidate is likely to be none other than our present leader, I find untenable most arguments that would make it possible to vote for him. I believe that we were lied to regarding information used to justify the war in Iraq and I truly believe that there was more than a little profit motive involved in the invasion. (I also believe that the removal of Saddam Hussein is an undoubtedly good thing--but we all know that we may not use illicit means to effect a good--John at Disputations made that resoundingly clear to me on at least on occasion, and it is a critically important concept to keep in place. We may not sin that good should come from it)
I know I wade into dangerous waters when I say these things, but while the democrats fail in supporting abortion, the republicans tend to fail on much of the social agenda. They may oppose abortions, but I haven't heard much about their plans for aiding and assisting the poor women and scared young women who feel driven to abortion. I know it is not up to the government to support every single person or idea, but I am more than a little disturbed by the fact that so much attention is focused on preserving the life of the child (which is critically, fundamentally important) and so little focused on preserving the quality of life of the mother, and thus the family that would be formed as a result of giving birth. If this young mother has been driven from her house as a result of this pregnancy, if she drops out of school, or falls by the wayside because of these unfortunate circumstances there are not a tremendous number of support organizations to help her. There are large numbers of "pregnancy crisis and counseling centers," and a great many try to provide the kinds of services described, but more is needed and more focus of the life of the mother on child after birth is needed. Here in Orlando there is a wonderful organization that runs a small house for about fourteen high-school aged young mothers. This organization cares for the children while the mother is at school. They provide counseling and training and parenting and housekeeping courses after the school. They attempt to school the woman in having sufficient self-respect and self-esteem to avoid this situation in the future (assuming that the young woman made a choice that resulted in this child) and generally provide guidance and counseling.
I guess I'm saying I'd like to see more talk about what one does to support people who opt not to have an abortion. How can we help them feel life is not at an end?
I've strayed from my intent. I see as problematic issues on either side of the coin. Democrats in general support abortion and oppose capital punishment. They tend to be more environment friendly and less business friendly.
Republicans, on the other hand, tend to oppose abortion and support capital punishment. And some may argue, with some legitimacy, that capital punishment is different both in kind and degree. That is it is only levied upon those who truly deserve it after an intricate process of determination of this merit. However, capital punishment differentially affects the poor, who cannot afford the Johnny Cochrances and others to defend them. Moreover, the Holy Father has stated that while there may be circumstances under which capital punishment may be legitimate they are as rare and as circumscribed as those conditions that must be met for a just war.
I find republican social policy generally laced with repugnant assumptions--not generally spoken aloud, but tacit. It strikes me as overly Calvinist in the assumption that the poor are poor because they deserve to be.
All of this said, none of it is true for every republican or every democrat. I find currents in both parties unpalatable.
But can a Catholic in good conscience support a Democrat? I think so. From a purely pragmatic standpoint, nothing any politician is likely to do will get past what the Supreme Court has so firmly set in place and so violently protected at every turn. Witness the immediate injunction against the ban on partial birth abortions--surely an example of no-brainer legislation and restriction if every there was such. The state of belief of a politician in this matter is between the candidate and God. While the vote may cause the person to be excommunicated or not a Catholic in good standing, there is no law that says that a Catholic must vote for a Catholic. And one must judge a vote by the fullness of the intent of that vote. If the purpose in choosing a democrat is to protect the right to abortion then the choice would be illicit. If on the other hand one truly believes that a democrat would better serve the dispossessed and oppressed then all weights must be thrown into the balance. Our bishops have wisely refrained in the past from overt support of one candidate or another not out of cowardice but out of the very concrete realization that there are far too many factors to weigh and one of those must include the conscience of the person who would vote. It would certainly be no worse to vote for such a person than to vote for a known bigot, liar, or other miscreant. I wonder whether Jesus would have better things to say about those who sacrifice babies to Moloch or the poor to Mammon. Somehow I don't think either one would come out spotless--and these are part of the overall consideration when one sits down to vote. And if one considers the fullness of the issues, on nearly every other plank the democratic platform seems to more closely approach the social teaching of the Catholic Church.
My basic hope and prayer is that those Catholics who feel drawn to the democratic party remain faithful to Church teaching on abortion. I pray that they continue to influence and shape the policy of the party so that it softens from stridently pro-Herodian to listening to what I believe to be the heartbeat of the majority of Americans. The democratic party has to abandon the fringes of the pro-abortion movement and move toward the restriction of abortions after the first trimester. (Roe basically guarantees unrestricted abortion during that first trimester). From that point, we, good Catholics and Christians that we are, can work toward making the world a place of true choices where the prospect of abortion is no longer the shadow of salvation, but truly is an unappealing option in the light of the opportunities still in place for young women who are threatened with this terrible crisis.
My point is that careful examination of ANY politician's viewpoints is likely to reveal several points at which the politicians is at odds with received teaching. Abortion is an extremely important--indeed overridingly important issue; however, it seems anti-Catholic to suggest that anyone who can support a democratic candidate cannot be a true Catholic. Certainly anyone who can unreservedly support such a candidate--anyone who does not vocally and frequently make a point of their opposition to these key points of difference, may be looked at askance. But the truth of the matter may be far deeper and individual consciences are formed in different ways. I could not in good conscience vote for a democrat. But I my conscience and heart also weigh on me very heavily when I consider the alternatives. What I need to vote for is a truly Catholic Politician--pro-life, pro-woman, pro-family, pro-poor, pro-God. I honestly don't see such a person in the field of contenders and I do not hold out much hope for the election of such a person. How many people today would vote for a Mother Teresa who was running for office? Then ask the other question--is it even really possible for a person like Mother Teresa to hold such an office? Many great Royal Saints were not particularly well-known for their ability to rule. And there may be a reason for that.
My last word: Rather than looking outward and condemning what we see there, we do better to truly wrestle with our own consciences and with our own choices. We are called not to judge others and not to wish other into a separation from community and not to call upon us another split in the Church. Many Catholics who stand fully pro-life may find it difficult or impossible to support a republican for any number of very valid reasons. That is a matter for prayer, reflection, and meditation for the Catholic involved. However, it is not a matter for coercion or for shunning. We must allow each other the freedom of thought that God has allowed each of us. We must correct overt error such as when a Catholic teaches or thinks that abortion is neutral or even a positive good. But when we stare into the heart of the issues what we will see will be dictated by how we have been formed in God and we should exercise the same care, concern, and charity for one another that God lavishes upon us. My prayer is that all Catholics spend a great deal of time soul-searching and walk into the next election with their eyes wide open knowing exactly for whom and what they are voting and how that vote will need to be moderated by social activism and hard prayer and work.
And now--to usurp a more worthy person's words, "Après ça, le deluge."
More New Blogs
Jeanne Stark brings attention to her husband's new blog. There's not much there yet; however, my sense is those of you who care for a blog of progressive flavor, similar to Catholic Sensibility and JCecil's Site, might enjoy some of the musing at Reality--What a Concept. But I may be incorrect. Impression have been formed on the basis of certain resonances I have detected in recent days with writings at these two blogs.
Visit Jeanne herself at Find Me in Florida Again.
Comfort Literature
A few days ago Don (of Mixolydian Mode) published a list of literature that he found comforting or "a nice escape." This followed from a post by Terry Teachout regarding literature he often retreated to. This got me to thinking and I decided to list work that I found strangely engaging and, indeed, comforting.
One of my selections agrees with Mr. Teachout (as I recall) the others are uniquely mine:
(1) The King James Version of the Bible, particularly Psalms and The Song of Solomon.
(2) Rex Stout (Mr. Teachout's choice)
(3) Henry James--particularly the short stories
(4) Agatha Christie (I can't explain it other than an early childhood attachment)
(5) Tom Sawyer (and only Tom among the works of Mr. Twain)
(6) My Antonia
(7) The works of Jack Vance and Clark Ashton Smith (sheer joyful playing with language)
(8) Dubliners most particularly the serenely frighteningly magnificent "The Dead"
(9) James Lee Burke--The stories disturb me but the masterful control of language and the atmosphere engage me.
(10) John Keats
(11) "The Tempest"
That's how I see the list right now. I'll need to do more thinking and try to understand what factors control these choices.
With all of them except Christie, part of the attraction and appeal is the deft handling of language. And even with Christie to some extent--her writing is rather flat, but predictable and comforting in the way of a Grandmother's stories.
Before you get the idea of some high-falutin' literateur, I should mention that I love the turns of Henry James's sentences and the constructions both of story arc and character in all of their convoluted neurotic glory. I don't claim any great understanding of true appreciation of his art.
To All the Summists
summist--a name given to the divines of the Middle Ages who propounded their dogmas in works called Summae Theologiae. . . This name was adopted by Thomas Aquinas who published his celebrated work on divinity under the tilte of Summae totius Theologiae.
So to all the active summists and the present-day O.P.s of whatever rank--a most blessed feast of St. Thomas.
From Olique House via Summa Mommas
You, my friend are a true individual. You most
likely hate trends and are creative. By seeing
things differently, people either admire you or
think you are a bit strange. I'm guessing you
are a lot like me. Perhaps a Good Charlotte
hater? I hope so. An inspiration to us all,
continue being you! (If you like GC, I'm sorry,
I am just expressing an opinion)
A Deeper Look Inside Yourself (with pics)
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and for the absolute antithesis of my personality nothing could better set the stage than:
Raver Bear
Which Dysfunctional Care Bear Are You?
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On the other hand--shiny objects that swim, swirl, or otherwise make patterns RULE!
Prayer Requests 1/27/04
Cold and chill, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever.
Dew and rain, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever.
Frost and chill, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever.
Ice and snow, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever. (Daniel 3:67-70)
(This was so appropriate for what I was hearing around the country yesterday, I thought it remained a good praise for today.)
Prayers:
For all who are suffering from marital problems, most particularly those in our own families or communities, that the Lord may intervene and remind them that a marriage is of three persons.
For Dylan's return to health and return to us.
For Shirley: The hospital is trying to throw her out and she has no care to return to at home.
For the local Carmelite Chapters that the visit from the provincial during the next two weeks is fruitful and helpful to their growth and development.
For Christine and Gordon, who are presently separated by a great distance, that Christine will be able to bear up under all that must be done in the next few months. Pray especially for Heather that the coming transition might be easy and smooth for her.
Please continue prayers for Linda's recovery from the surgery and return to work this week. Also prayers for a special need for our family right now would be appreciated.
For Franklin, his parents, and his whole family that they weather the current health crisis and come out of it more aware of God's loving presence in their families.
For M'Lynn in her present domestic crisis, that all works out both in Court and in the new job possibility
For Tom of Goodform's father-in-law who has been diagnosed with a stroke--for full recovery and for no recurrence of the affliction.
For mothers and families that struggle with autism and autistic related disabilities: particularly for M'Lynn, Melissa, Christine, and Betty.
For Athan, an 18 month old child in North Carolina who suffers from a digestive disorder that doctors determine its nature and help to remedy it; for peace and comfort for Athan's family.
For Father Benedict Groeschel, for complete recovery
For families that desire more children
For the conversion or return of spouses and loved ones to the Catholic Church, most particularly for Amanda's husband
For Kairos Guy for a job possibility.
Por favor, le ruego una oracion por la proteccion de mis hijos Michael y Francis, que la Virgen los guie siempre y que me ilumine para ser una buena madre.Gracias con todo mi corazon. Antonia
Translation per Alicia (thank you): Please, requesting a prayer for the protection of my children Michael and Francis, that the Virgin will always guide them, and that she (the Virgin) will light my path to be a good mother. Thank you with all my heart.
Please pray for St. Joseph's youth group and their upcoming summer trip, including the planning. Please pray for all who God wants to come to fill our three buses and especially for Gina, Ann, Fr. Piche, Fr. Wilson and the other priest - for protection and for a fruitful trip.
For Audrey, who is battling anorexia, and to her family which is suffering through very difficult times.
For T.S. O'Rama's Grandmother who is experiencing a very difficult change in living arrangements
For Jeanetta's friend Mike who is battling non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma
For Karen Marie Knapp as she recovers from her recent hospitalization.
For the men and women of the American Armed forces in Iraq and Afghanistan and for their families, may the Good Lord provide sustenance, support, compassion, and love that these separated families might continue to grow in strength and love.
Special Prayer Projects:
(1) Chris Keith, the young lady whose biopsy went poorly got the results of that biopsy--carcinoma of the liver. The cancer is metastatic from colon cancer. Surgery has taken place to treat the colon cancer.
I paraphrase her mother:
"We [members of the family] are standing on the Rock and are rock solid. We are all okay and we are looking for a few prayer warriors to help us in this battle." Because this mother means so much to me for the great good she has done for my friends, I plan to stand with her and her family in this battle, and I invite you all to join me. Expect to hear about this on and off over the next few months.
(2) For Katherine's Mom as she undergoes chemotherapy--that the treatment is successful and her mother comes through this ordeal with a deeper sense of God's abiding love for her.
(3) For Katherine and Franklin, Janet and Louis, Bill Doran, and for all who are seeking employment and suffering through difficult times as they wait.
(4)Healthy Pregnancies and good and safe deliveries: From Davey's Mom: I am with child once again and could use prayers for a healthy pregnancy. For Suki, for a healthy pregancy and a safe delivery. For Ashli and her child that doctors may find a way to help her carry her young one to term.
January 27, 2004
Test Results from Summa Mommas
You're a gryphon. You're very powerful without
needing to brag about it. Creativity is one of
your strong suits. Your outward personality may
change drastically according to your mood,
which is not always a good thing. You're a
loyal guardian when you choose to be and you're
aligned towards *good*.
What mythical beast are you?
brought to you by Quizilla
The New Mass Translation
In several place around St. Blogs, most notably here and here (blogspot is boing its usual wonderful thing with regard to direct linking) there has been concern expressed with regard to the new ICEL Mass translations. In one location it goes beyond concern to suggest that a possibility is further schism of the SSPX variety--if for example we were to return to the Latin (Tridentine) Mass.
While I agree with the spirit of some comments (for example return to simple literal translation is indeed simple. To move from :
"The Lord be with you"
"And also with you."
to
"The Lord be with you."
"And with your spirit."
is awkward and doesn't really express the intent of the what is being said. We want the Lord only to be with a person's spirit and not there as a bodily protector in times of trial. We want the Lord to be present to the spirit but not to the mind and body? The spirit is somehow seperate and not part of the full being? The translation implies this.
But let's face it, while awkward and not true to the spirit of what's being said, this isn't the Mount Everest of translation difficulties. I might not favor it, but I would have no trouble saying it after I got used to it again.)
But I am disturbed by some responses that suggest that all faiths are equally valid. While all Christian faiths partake of salvation, they do so through the font of grace and salvation, God's established Church on Earth. So, too, in some mysteriously different way, those of other faiths who enter into the kingdom do so through the aegis of the Catholic Church.
In other words, in the Catholic Church resides the fullness of faith and the fullness of the truth of God that we can experience here on Earth. With the possible exception of the Orthodox Churches (I am not theologically adept enough to address this) that is untrue of any other Church. It is insufficient to say "Well, there's always the [place a denomination here] Church down the street."
John of Disputations made this point several days ago. Too often we are not interested in seeking the truth. We have bought into the post-modernist lie that truth is relative. It is not. The Truth, in the person of Jesus Christ, is absolute. And the Truth was established on Earth as the Church of Jesus Christ, the mystical body of Christ. Just because a few of the neurons in the body go haywire and start producing garbled speech is no reason to consider abandoning the body.
Now, to give all due credit, I don't believe the person who wrote about this suggested that the ICEL retranslation would bring about such a crisis. If I understood correctly, he was suggesting a reversion to the Tridentine Mass might cause such difficulties. Of this I cannot say; however, I can say that no matter what the language or the translation or lack thereof, so long as the core stays the same--the words of institution are valid and are a reasonable translation of those used by Jesus, Himself, everything else is table decoration. I don't much care if it's Latin, Urdu, Swahili, French, Spoken Sanskrit, Etruscan, or what--the real presence of Jesus Christ at the banquet of the Eucharist is the only thing that matters. I can tolerate a great deal of nonsense and things I don't particularly care for to be close to My Lord and My God in the real presence. Outside of the Catholic (and perhaps Orthodox Churches) where else can this be true?
Prayer Requests 1/27/04
Cold and chill, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever.
Dew and rain, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever.
Frost and chill, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever.
Ice and snow, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever. (Daniel 3:67-70)
(This was so appropriate for what I was hearing around the country yesterday, I thought it remained a good praise for today.)
Prayers:
For Dylan's return to health and return to us.
For Shirley: The hospital is trying to throw her out and she has no care to return to at home.
For all who are suffering from marital problems that the Lord may intervene and remind them that a marriage is of three persons.
For the local Carmelite Chapters that the visit from the provincial during the next two weeks is fruitful and helpful to their growth and development.
For Christine and Gordon, who are presently separated by a great distance, that Christine will be able to bear up under all that must be done in the next few months. Pray especially for Heather that the coming transition might be easy and smooth for her.
Please continue prayers for Linda's recovery from the surgery and return to work this week. Also prayers for a special need for our family right now would be appreciated.
For Franklin, his parents, and his whole family that they weather the current health crisis and come out of it more aware of God's loving presence in their families.
For M'Lynn in her present domestic crisis, that all works out both in Court and in the new job possibility
For Tom of Goodform's father-in-law who has been diagnosed with a stroke--for full recovery and for no recurrence of the affliction.
For mothers and families that struggle with autism and autistic related disabilities: particularly for M'Lynn, Melissa, Christine, and Betty.
For Athan, an 18 month old child in North Carolina who suffers from a digestive disorder that doctors determine its nature and help to remedy it; for peace and comfort for Athan's family.
For Father Benedict Groeschel, for complete recovery
For families that desire more children
For the conversion or return of spouses and loved ones to the Catholic Church, most particularly for Amanda's husband
For Kairos Guy for a job possibility.
Por favor, le ruego una oracion por la proteccion de mis hijos Michael y Francis, que la Virgen los guie siempre y que me ilumine para ser una buena madre.Gracias con todo mi corazon. Antonia
Translation per Alicia (thank you): Please, requesting a prayer for the protection of my children Michael and Francis, that the Virgin will always guide them, and that she (the Virgin) will light my path to be a good mother. Thank you with all my heart.
Please pray for St. Joseph's youth group and their upcoming summer trip, including the planning. Please pray for all who God wants to come to fill our three buses and especially for Gina, Ann, Fr. Piche, Fr. Wilson and the other priest - for protection and for a fruitful trip.
For Audrey, who is battling anorexia, and to her family which is suffering through very difficult times.
For T.S. O'Rama's Grandmother who is experiencing a very difficult change in living arrangements
For Jeanetta's friend Mike who is battling non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma
For Karen Marie Knapp as she recovers from her recent hospitalization.
For the men and women of the American Armed forces in Iraq and Afghanistan and for their families, may the Good Lord provide sustenance, support, compassion, and love that these separated families might continue to grow in strength and love.
Special Prayer Projects:
(1) Chris Keith, the young lady whose biopsy went poorly got the results of that biopsy--carcinoma of the liver. The cancer is metastatic from colon cancer. Surgery has taken place to treat the colon cancer.
I paraphrase her mother:
"We [members of the family] are standing on the Rock and are rock solid. We are all okay and we are looking for a few prayer warriors to help us in this battle." Because this mother means so much to me for the great good she has done for my friends, I plan to stand with her and her family in this battle, and I invite you all to join me. Expect to hear about this on and off over the next few months.
(2) For Katherine's Mom as she undergoes chemotherapy--that the treatment is successful and her mother comes through this ordeal with a deeper sense of God's abiding love for her.
(3) For Katherine and Franklin, Janet and Louis, Bill Doran, and for all who are seeking employment and suffering through difficult times as they wait.
(4)Healthy Pregnancies and good and safe deliveries: From Davey's Mom: I am with child once again and could use prayers for a healthy pregnancy. For Suki, for a healthy pregancy and a safe delivery. For Ashli and her child that doctors may find a way to help her carry her young one to term.
January 26, 2004
For Those Who Needed Another Reason to NOT Shop at Walmart
You might be interested in this post and its accompanying comments.
Link via Gutless Pacifist.
New Blogs
In a rather daring debut on the St Blog's Network, Dr. Philip Blosser--related to another blogger, advances into the foray with two new blogs:
Scripture and Catholic Tradition
and
On Birth and Contraception
The Old Oligarch has a wonderful reflection on the question of birth and contraception and the contraceptive mentality. (Thanks for the link go to Father Jim).
Reading List
Having recently finished Cather's Death Comes for the Archbishop (a wonderful, gentle, and fine tribute to Jean-Marie Latour--a fictional biographical retelling of the story of the life of the first Archbishop of Santa Fe) it behooved me to hie me to the bookstore and seek out what lay upon the remaindered shelves.
Doing so I discovered the following delectable commodities and took it upon myself to acquire them:
Steven Millhauser--Martin Dressler
Tom Wolfe--Hooking Up (with its amazingly excoriating look at John Updike, John Irving, and Norman Mailer called "My Three Stooges."
Frank Kermode--The Language of Shakespeare a magisterial, but approachable study of the Bard, examining the growth and development of the poetic genius through the entire corpus of his work.
These three have been added to the list to read nearly immediately along with C.S. Lewis's The Screwtape Letters. (I suggested that we also look at The Snakebite Letters by Peter Kreeft and Lord Foulgrin's Letters by Randy Alcorn to see how the genre, small though it is , has prospered.)
Missed the discussion yesterday of Our Lady of the Forest largely because I could not penetrate its murky depths because I simply didn't care.
Seeking Grace--The Sacraments
The following entry from Abbot Vonier's study seemed apropos following on Barbara Dent. The human will can make only feeble motions on its own, unstrengthened by grace. We can keep at a work no more than a moment or two without God's strength behind us.
from A Key to the Doctrine of the Eucharist
Abbot VonierThe Eucharist ought really to illuminate for us all the other sacraments with its own radiance. The Eucahrist is the sun in the firmament of sacramental grace. Is there not, however, sometimes a danger on the one hand of giving the Eucharist a position such as would hardly retain it in its sacramental setting, while on the other hand there may be the greater peril of our lowering the status of the other sacraments to conventional forms of lesser spiritual power? Yet the Eucharist ought to safeguard for us all the spiritual glories of the other sacraments, by keeping them within the orbit of the divine Presence; while they in turn, being as truly sacraments, although they do not contain the Body and Blood of Christ, will enable us to see even the Eucharist in its true perspective. We may put it in the following way: One sacrament, while remaining entirely a sacrament, and indeed through its sacramentality, and not as an unusual feature or external adjunct, contains the true Body and Blood of Christ; it does this in virtue of its sacramental state, not because it is more than a sacrament. (p. 42-43)
(book available from Zaccheus Press)
And for Vonier and the believing Catholic the importance of the Eucharist being a sacrament is that it is a sign that effects what it signifies. A sacrament is not merely an external ritual or an empty ceremony, but it is a sign that contains the fullness of the meaning of the sign. It is a symbol that causes what it symbolizes to enter reality and transform it. In short, it is a sign that bestows grace and has as its object the bestowal of grace, the strengthening of the connection between creator and creation.
Wandering the Darkness without Infrared
Barbara Dent's book My Only Friend Is Darkness is an exposition of the teaching of St. John of the Cross from an experiential viewpoint. Ms. Dent makes some remarkable and critically important points about our relationship with God in the following passage:
from My Only Friend is Darkness Barbara DentWhen faced with the summons to reckless self-giving, we make endless qualifications, excuses and rationalizations. John will have none of them.
Our hearts must be purged of all unruly affections and desires arising from the four traditional passions of joy, hope, fear and grief. When we calmly consider what and who does actually arouse in us the extremes of these passions, we shall not often find that it is our personal relationship with God. . . .
The aim of this purging of desires for the not-God is to transform our human will into one fully united with the divine will. The more we are emotionally dependent on created things and on people, the more our will is tugging to get free of God, or is in conflict, or is merely ignoring the directives of his will for us.
If we succeed in fully controlling only one of the four passions, the others will also become subdued and redirected to God as a result. Until we achieve this control, we remain captive and incapable of full union and deep contemplation. . . .
Anyone who thinks this is easy is either (1)severely emotionally inhibited and repressed; (2) naturally unresponsive and cold-hearted; (3) ignorant of what it is to love with all the too, too human heart; (4) a psychopath; or (5) already a saint!
John pushes home his point relentlessly. "There is another very great and important benefit in this detachment of the rejoicing from creatures--namely, that it leaves the heart free for God. This is the dispositive foundation of all the favours which God will grant to the soul, and without this disposition he grants them not (Ascent III, XX, 4, italics added). (pgs. 89-90)
In the end the service of God is all the really matters. While we must take heed of present circumstances, we need not be dominated by them. Love of God stirred by activation of the will in opposing our besetting sin is a step toward sanctity and wholeness. Outside of this all work is futile, all accomplishment only ash and dust. We are transformed in God and in the transformation we become new people and every part of the old man resists this death. Every part of us seeks God and flees Him simultaneously. And grace alone determines the outcome. Do we seek grace? Do we know the fullness of what can be accomplished in us? If we spend a single moment in the Bible we do. In a moment we become Paul when we were Saul. Or we become Ananias and Sapphira. The choice is ours--to seek grace and God's will or to seek our own.
On the Carmelite Congress
I have not forgotten my promise to post materials from the Carmelite congress. I received a request this weekend regarding those posts. The first was received with such resounding silence and there were so many things on my mind that frankly, it completely slipped my mind to continue posting. This will serve a dual purpose of getting my notes in order and informing those who are interested about what transpired. Look for more in the near future.
Prayer Requests 1/26/04
Cold and chill, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever.
Dew and rain, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever.
Frost and chill, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever.
Ice and snow, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever. (Daniel 3:67-70)
Prayers:
For Christine and Gordon, who are presently separated by a great distance, that Christine will be able to bear up under all that must be done in the next few months. Pray especially for Heather that the coming transition might be easy and smooth for her.
Please continue prayers for Linda's recovery from the surgery and return to work this week. Also prayers for a special need for our family right now would be appreciated.
Shirley is up and about. Doctors said that the type of wound that she received is fatal more than 90% of the time. She will require nursing care for the next several weeks; however the job she obtained is with a good Christian employer and appears not to be threatened. Please continue to pray for her recovery and particularly for her son who is a veteran's hospital.
For Franklin, his parents, and his whole family that they weather the current health crisis and come out of it more aware of God's loving presence in their families.
For M'Lynn in her present domestic crisis, that all works out both in Court and in the new job possibility
For Tom of Goodform's father-in-law who has been diagnosed with a stroke--for full recovery and for no recurrence of the affliction.
For mothers and families that struggle with autism and autistic related disabilities: particularly for M'Lynn, Melissa, Christine, and Betty.
For Athan, an 18 month old child in North Carolina who suffers from a digestive disorder that doctors determine its nature and help to remedy it; for peace and comfort for Athan's family.
For Father Benedict Groeschel, for complete recovery
For families that desire more children
An anonymous request for a friend struggling with marital problems
For the conversion or return of spouses and loved ones to the Catholic Church, most particularly for Amanda's husband
For Kairos Guy for a job possibility.
Por favor, le ruego una oracion por la proteccion de mis hijos Michael y Francis, que la Virgen los guie siempre y que me ilumine para ser una buena madre.Gracias con todo mi corazon. Antonia
Translation per Alicia (thank you): Please, requesting a prayer for the protection of my children Michael and Francis, that the Virgin will always guide them, and that she (the Virgin) will light my path to be a good mother. Thank you with all my heart.
Please pray for St. Joseph's youth group and their upcoming summer trip, including the planning. Please pray for all who God wants to come to fill our three buses and especially for Gina, Ann, Fr. Piche, Fr. Wilson and the other priest - for protection and for a fruitful trip.
For Audrey, who is battling anorexia, and to her family which is suffering through very difficult times.
For Grace Enriquez, director of my Carmelite community, for rapid and complete recovery from her surgery of 6 January 2004.
Continued prayers for Christine's father that he effect a complete recovery from his recent crisis.
For T.S. O'Rama's Grandmother who is experiencing a very difficult change in living arrangements
For Jeanetta's friend Mike who is battling non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma
For Dylan's return to health and return to us.
For Karen Marie Knapp as she recovers from her recent hospitalization.
For the men and women of the American Armed forces in Iraq and Afghanistan and for their families, may the Good Lord provide sustenance, support, compassion, and love that these separated families might continue to grow in strength and love.
Special Prayer Projects:
(1) Chris Keith, the young lady whose biopsy went poorly got the results of that biopsy--carcinoma of the liver. The cancer is metastatic from colon cancer. Surgery has taken place to treat the colon cancer.
I paraphrase her mother:
"We [members of the family] are standing on the Rock and are rock solid. We are all okay and we are looking for a few prayer warriors to help us in this battle." Because this mother means so much to me for the great good she has done for my friends, I plan to stand with her and her family in this battle, and I invite you all to join me. Expect to hear about this on and off over the next few months.
(2) For Katherine's Mom as she undergoes chemotherapy--that the treatment is successful and her mother comes through this ordeal with a deeper sense of God's abiding love for her.
(3) For Katherine and Franklin, Janet and Louis, Bill Doran, and for all who are seeking employment and suffering through difficult times as they wait.
(4)Healthy Pregnancies and good and safe deliveries: From Davey's Mom: I am with child once again and could use prayers for a healthy pregnancy. For Suki, for a healthy pregancy and a safe delivery. For Ashli and her child that doctors may find a way to help her carry her young one to term.