Something happened this week, beginning with a Feast of the Assumption Mass, that was quite remarkable.
This Holy Day holds a special meaning for me, with my own mother.
Every summer, our family would go to New York to visit my mother's relatives. It was great fun, as my Grandfather (straight from Sicily) lived
in Coney Island.
On August 15th, my mother would be sure to take me to the beach, telling me that we should "take a dip" into the ocean to honor that day. It's funny-we never went to Mass, but it was a yearly ritual.
August 15th is the only Holy Day I could ever remember. It was the only one ever mentioned in our family.
This mystery was somewhat solved when I saw an Italian Princess on The Journey Home program. She said that Aug. 15th was a greatly celebrated holiday for Italians, with much festivity attached to it. That explained it.
I went to a 7pm Mass, celebrated by a Mexican priest. His homily was simple; go back to Mary-she will help you. His word hit my heart. I'm in very tough circumstances right now, and I knew I needed "extra help." I also knew she would be there for me.
Next day I said the Rosary. I flipped on the TV, and a guest on EWTN was describing how halfway through a Rosary, he had a revelation about himself that opened his eyes to God.
Within a few hours I had a revelation of what to do about a situation in my life that seemed to have no solution. How do I know it's God? Because although the facts of this matter had existed for months, I could NEVER have put it together as a plan for my life the way He did for me at that moment.
I knew that I knew that I KNEW I had to try God's plan. I'll keep you posted. There are many steps involved, but if it's God's will, He will strengthen me.
Tuesday, August 19, 2014
Sunday, June 8, 2014
EWTN Radio
Last Wednesday afternoon I had the great pleasure of speaking to Father Mitch Pacwa on his radio program from 3-4 pm on EWTN Radio.
This program is hosted by different people-but I wanted to speak with Father Pacwa in particular for reasons I will explain.
Since I am a revert to the Church after decades of absence, I at first dismissed the things about the changes in the Mass I found disturbing.
Four years later, however, I am still troubled. This is the reason for my call to Fr. Pacwa. I needed to speak with someone who had been a Catholic for a long enough time to remember Mass BEFORE all of these changes. Vatican II was in effect for years before my straying, but everything remained the same at that time.
In 2010, however I found the folllowing things horrifying:
1. The multitude of hymns (not all Catholic) sung at Mass. Before every reading,after every reading, during communion, and worst of all AFTER the Mass is ended by the Priest. We were even admonished a few months ago that there were "THREE verses" of the final hymn-lest we were tempted to leave.
There are now CHAIRS on the Altar. WHY? The Priests get tired? No.
They're for the Prients to sit down and wait for the music to end. Tail wagging dog?
Looking in the hymnal, I noticed that many of the hymns were not Catholic in origin. You can easily note the publishers.
Why so many songs, I kept asking myself. I'm afraid that the Catholic Church got the notion that the Protestant Churches were bringing in more members because of their music. Maybe so-but not THIS music.
2. Casual dress by women servers. I'm not against Altar Girls-if they are
dressed in proper vestments, with hair tied back. When there's a CHOIR,
they wear robes, no? But for some odd reason, the women assisting at the Mass wear whatever they choose. Green leisure suits, tight sweaters,
sleeveless dresses, anything goes.
It's simply a matter of respect for being on the Altar that contains the
presence of God. They should wear some sort of vestments if they are to
be on the altar.
When I asked Fr. Pacwa about these things, I truly thought he would chuckle and tell me to pray to accept the changes. He chuckled, all right, but said "There are more than a few people who feel as you do".
I short, he agreed with me, also mentioning the Latin Mass. (Yes! I would love to see the Latin Mass restored.) He said that my homework was to go out and make my feelings known; perhaps be instrumental in changing this.
It totally floored me; I had expected the usual "party line". But I am excited about this, now, and this is my first contribution to this cause.
Thank you, Fr. Pacwa.
Does anyone agree?
This program is hosted by different people-but I wanted to speak with Father Pacwa in particular for reasons I will explain.
Since I am a revert to the Church after decades of absence, I at first dismissed the things about the changes in the Mass I found disturbing.
Four years later, however, I am still troubled. This is the reason for my call to Fr. Pacwa. I needed to speak with someone who had been a Catholic for a long enough time to remember Mass BEFORE all of these changes. Vatican II was in effect for years before my straying, but everything remained the same at that time.
In 2010, however I found the folllowing things horrifying:
1. The multitude of hymns (not all Catholic) sung at Mass. Before every reading,after every reading, during communion, and worst of all AFTER the Mass is ended by the Priest. We were even admonished a few months ago that there were "THREE verses" of the final hymn-lest we were tempted to leave.
There are now CHAIRS on the Altar. WHY? The Priests get tired? No.
They're for the Prients to sit down and wait for the music to end. Tail wagging dog?
Looking in the hymnal, I noticed that many of the hymns were not Catholic in origin. You can easily note the publishers.
Why so many songs, I kept asking myself. I'm afraid that the Catholic Church got the notion that the Protestant Churches were bringing in more members because of their music. Maybe so-but not THIS music.
2. Casual dress by women servers. I'm not against Altar Girls-if they are
dressed in proper vestments, with hair tied back. When there's a CHOIR,
they wear robes, no? But for some odd reason, the women assisting at the Mass wear whatever they choose. Green leisure suits, tight sweaters,
sleeveless dresses, anything goes.
It's simply a matter of respect for being on the Altar that contains the
presence of God. They should wear some sort of vestments if they are to
be on the altar.
When I asked Fr. Pacwa about these things, I truly thought he would chuckle and tell me to pray to accept the changes. He chuckled, all right, but said "There are more than a few people who feel as you do".
I short, he agreed with me, also mentioning the Latin Mass. (Yes! I would love to see the Latin Mass restored.) He said that my homework was to go out and make my feelings known; perhaps be instrumental in changing this.
It totally floored me; I had expected the usual "party line". But I am excited about this, now, and this is my first contribution to this cause.
Thank you, Fr. Pacwa.
Does anyone agree?
Tuesday, April 8, 2014
Why This Blog?
Nobody's reading it YET, but somebody MAY, in the future. So here goes...
When I came back to the Church, a little over four years ago, I was given the grace of understanding so many things I had not understood, before. It was not due to study, or reading, not anything I could put my finger on-it was just there.
Right before I came back, I had begun going to an Assembly of God Bible Study on Wednesday nights. There was definitely a Presence there, and the people were very devoted, and sincere. Of course, i felt out of place because it was not was I was used to, but there was more to my discomfort.
Looking back, I realize that once i stepped fully into Christianity, God pulled me right back into Catholicism. IF I was going to be Christian, I HAD to be Catholic.
Why? I had dabbled with New Age, etc., during my youth, and a sort of "Generic God" concept afterwards. However, as I was led to Jesus as the Key, I had to ask the obvious questions:
"Why shouldn't I believe in the Eucharist as the Real Presence, when that's what Jesus said it was?"
"Why doubt that Peter was made the head of the Church by Christ Himself, when that's what He said?" The Church, however imperfect some of her servants, has kept this "apostolic succession" perfectly.
The AoG minister once made a passing reference to the Rosary as "vain repetitious prayers". I knew he was wrong, and that Bible passage misquoted.
I also knew to be untrue, the accusations that Catholics had taken our rituals and practicies from the pagans, for no reason other than to appease them.
I could go on and on, but all of a sudden I realized that Catholicism was founded upon 2,000 years of study, theology and truth.
Besides, if early Christians (Catholics) wanted to appease the pagans, why were so many of them martyred? It took 300 years for Christianity to be "legal", and I doubt if, by that time, there was much appeasing left to be done.
When I came back to the Church, a little over four years ago, I was given the grace of understanding so many things I had not understood, before. It was not due to study, or reading, not anything I could put my finger on-it was just there.
Right before I came back, I had begun going to an Assembly of God Bible Study on Wednesday nights. There was definitely a Presence there, and the people were very devoted, and sincere. Of course, i felt out of place because it was not was I was used to, but there was more to my discomfort.
Looking back, I realize that once i stepped fully into Christianity, God pulled me right back into Catholicism. IF I was going to be Christian, I HAD to be Catholic.
Why? I had dabbled with New Age, etc., during my youth, and a sort of "Generic God" concept afterwards. However, as I was led to Jesus as the Key, I had to ask the obvious questions:
"Why shouldn't I believe in the Eucharist as the Real Presence, when that's what Jesus said it was?"
"Why doubt that Peter was made the head of the Church by Christ Himself, when that's what He said?" The Church, however imperfect some of her servants, has kept this "apostolic succession" perfectly.
The AoG minister once made a passing reference to the Rosary as "vain repetitious prayers". I knew he was wrong, and that Bible passage misquoted.
I also knew to be untrue, the accusations that Catholics had taken our rituals and practicies from the pagans, for no reason other than to appease them.
I could go on and on, but all of a sudden I realized that Catholicism was founded upon 2,000 years of study, theology and truth.
Besides, if early Christians (Catholics) wanted to appease the pagans, why were so many of them martyred? It took 300 years for Christianity to be "legal", and I doubt if, by that time, there was much appeasing left to be done.
Saturday, March 29, 2014
Jesus at Gethsemane
The more I read the Bible, the more things jump out at me. That probably sounds like a cliche, but it's true. It has taken awhile, but more than time, it's taken persistence.
Most of us have known the usual stories of the Bible since childhood.
But there are the more unusual stories we don't know about, until we start reading it for ourselves.
Since the Easter Season is upon us, I'll share what I saw in the Garden
of Gethsemane.
A few weeks ago, I found in John 17: 6-26, Jesus praying not for Himself, but for the disciples and for we who come afterwards. I'd never read this before, but it's always been there, I'm sure.
This prayer is so tender and compassionate, it brought me to tears. It shows without a doubt how much Jesus loved his disciples in spite of
the fact that he often reproved them. He pleads with the Father on their behalf, and then on our behalf, almost in desperation.
"I am not praying for the world, but for those you have given me, for they are yours...I will remain in the world no longer, but they are still in the world-and I am coming to you Holy Father-protect them by the power of your name..." This is a small excerpt from it.
The only things I'd heard about the Garden of Gethsemane were the apostles sleeping, His annoyance with them, and Jesus praying for the
cup to pass.
Jesus' love-the love we have been told about, is demonstrated by the words in John 17:6-26. Read it during Eastertime.
Most of us have known the usual stories of the Bible since childhood.
But there are the more unusual stories we don't know about, until we start reading it for ourselves.
Since the Easter Season is upon us, I'll share what I saw in the Garden
of Gethsemane.
A few weeks ago, I found in John 17: 6-26, Jesus praying not for Himself, but for the disciples and for we who come afterwards. I'd never read this before, but it's always been there, I'm sure.
This prayer is so tender and compassionate, it brought me to tears. It shows without a doubt how much Jesus loved his disciples in spite of
the fact that he often reproved them. He pleads with the Father on their behalf, and then on our behalf, almost in desperation.
"I am not praying for the world, but for those you have given me, for they are yours...I will remain in the world no longer, but they are still in the world-and I am coming to you Holy Father-protect them by the power of your name..." This is a small excerpt from it.
The only things I'd heard about the Garden of Gethsemane were the apostles sleeping, His annoyance with them, and Jesus praying for the
cup to pass.
Jesus' love-the love we have been told about, is demonstrated by the words in John 17:6-26. Read it during Eastertime.
Wednesday, March 26, 2014
Ballykissangel
WHAT did you say? Ballykissangel. It's a TV show. I first saw it several years ago on PBS, and hadn't seen it since, until PBS put it back on about a year ago. Originally produced about 20 years ago.
What's my point? It's a tongue-in-cheek series made in Ireland, about a village where everyone is Catholic, and the Priests are the main characters. I don't think it could have been done in the US; we are too self-conscious when it comes to religion.
Ballykissangel's wit comes from many an inside joke about the Church;
not in disrespect, but from those things that arise in the day-to-day life
of Catholics.
In this show, Priests are actual human beings with opinions, angers, and prejudices, like everyone else. The village contains devout believers, lukewarm believers, and some who have an outright dislike of the Church.
Some of the themes that cracked me up were:
-The electronic Confessional with rotating doors which did not work.
-The kid who started a Confession Website where, for a fee, you
could email your sins and be absolved online.
-The statue who started crying "real tears", bringing up a lagging
Mass attendance.
The best line was the older priest's answer to the younger one's new suggestion: "What do you think this is, a democracy?"
Okay, it all may sound silly to you, but still, catch it a few times.
It's a good laugh, and sometimes brings up some good questions.
Here in Baltimore, it's on at 3:40 on PBS CHannel 22.
What's my point? It's a tongue-in-cheek series made in Ireland, about a village where everyone is Catholic, and the Priests are the main characters. I don't think it could have been done in the US; we are too self-conscious when it comes to religion.
Ballykissangel's wit comes from many an inside joke about the Church;
not in disrespect, but from those things that arise in the day-to-day life
of Catholics.
In this show, Priests are actual human beings with opinions, angers, and prejudices, like everyone else. The village contains devout believers, lukewarm believers, and some who have an outright dislike of the Church.
Some of the themes that cracked me up were:
-The electronic Confessional with rotating doors which did not work.
-The kid who started a Confession Website where, for a fee, you
could email your sins and be absolved online.
-The statue who started crying "real tears", bringing up a lagging
Mass attendance.
The best line was the older priest's answer to the younger one's new suggestion: "What do you think this is, a democracy?"
Okay, it all may sound silly to you, but still, catch it a few times.
It's a good laugh, and sometimes brings up some good questions.
Here in Baltimore, it's on at 3:40 on PBS CHannel 22.
Monday, February 24, 2014
Just Asking...
Asking questions can definitely spell trouble. Sometimes an inquiry can
be perceived as challenging or combative, even if we just want to know.
Sound like I've been there...well, yes. But these questions are Bible questions, and occasionally I'll be posting some for your comments...
1. Did Jesus wait to see who the Holy Ghost would anoint to say "You
are the Christ, the Son of the living God!", before He handed over the keys to the kingdom?
(Peter's response to Jesus' question "Who do YOU (the apostles) say
that I am?") To which Jesus said (paraphrased), "You didn't think THAT
up yourself, it was given to you by the Holy Spirit." Didn't Jesus wait on the Father to see who He would give those words to say? Didn't have
to be Peter. (Just thinking.)
2. Likewise, did it HAVE to be Judas? Someone had to be the betrayer, but did it have to be Judas Iscariot? Was he marked from birth in some way, or was he just the person to whom satan found easy entry? It is stated very clearly that, at the last supper, satan entered him, and he went out to betray Jesus. For some reason, he was easy prey. Bad attitude? Sin of greed or power?
The movie "Jesus of Nazareth" showed Judas to be disappointed and angry over Jesus' refusal to be a wordly "king". Did that make him vulnerable to such a heinous act?
(Just asking.)
be perceived as challenging or combative, even if we just want to know.
Sound like I've been there...well, yes. But these questions are Bible questions, and occasionally I'll be posting some for your comments...
1. Did Jesus wait to see who the Holy Ghost would anoint to say "You
are the Christ, the Son of the living God!", before He handed over the keys to the kingdom?
(Peter's response to Jesus' question "Who do YOU (the apostles) say
that I am?") To which Jesus said (paraphrased), "You didn't think THAT
up yourself, it was given to you by the Holy Spirit." Didn't Jesus wait on the Father to see who He would give those words to say? Didn't have
to be Peter. (Just thinking.)
2. Likewise, did it HAVE to be Judas? Someone had to be the betrayer, but did it have to be Judas Iscariot? Was he marked from birth in some way, or was he just the person to whom satan found easy entry? It is stated very clearly that, at the last supper, satan entered him, and he went out to betray Jesus. For some reason, he was easy prey. Bad attitude? Sin of greed or power?
The movie "Jesus of Nazareth" showed Judas to be disappointed and angry over Jesus' refusal to be a wordly "king". Did that make him vulnerable to such a heinous act?
(Just asking.)
St. Paul
For a long time I couldn't understand much of what St. Paul wrote.
Most of us know his verse that's read at weddings "love is patient,
love is kind"...etc. , but not much more. Neither did I.
However, the more I heard him quoted (from various sources), the more
I began to read and experience the meanings behind his powerful words.
I realized I'd better "listen up" where Paul was concerned, because he
was chosen specifically by Jesus Christ to teach the Gentiles (us) what
He was all about. And teach he does.There is an urgency in Paul that I've only recently perceived-an urgency which produces the most remarkable statements and insights that cannot help but demand our attention.
These verses are mixed in with concerns about daily life, and directions
for the Churches. Suddenly, as if Christ is whispering in his ear, he writes:"Who shall separate us from the love of Christ, not..." and he goes through every possibile trouble we could endure, and finishes with..."Nor height nor depth, nor any other creature shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
I'd heard this before, and thought "Yeah, I know He loves me, I guess.
At least in theory." No! What Paul means is that Christ's love for us is so great right now, that no matter what happens, or what we feel, or
what we think, His love is trying to get through to us, beaming down like the sun. We can't always sense it or let it through, but it EXISTS, nonetheless.
So much more to be said about St. Paul's message, but that's for another time. Read!
Most of us know his verse that's read at weddings "love is patient,
love is kind"...etc. , but not much more. Neither did I.
However, the more I heard him quoted (from various sources), the more
I began to read and experience the meanings behind his powerful words.
I realized I'd better "listen up" where Paul was concerned, because he
was chosen specifically by Jesus Christ to teach the Gentiles (us) what
He was all about. And teach he does.There is an urgency in Paul that I've only recently perceived-an urgency which produces the most remarkable statements and insights that cannot help but demand our attention.
These verses are mixed in with concerns about daily life, and directions
for the Churches. Suddenly, as if Christ is whispering in his ear, he writes:"Who shall separate us from the love of Christ, not..." and he goes through every possibile trouble we could endure, and finishes with..."Nor height nor depth, nor any other creature shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
I'd heard this before, and thought "Yeah, I know He loves me, I guess.
At least in theory." No! What Paul means is that Christ's love for us is so great right now, that no matter what happens, or what we feel, or
what we think, His love is trying to get through to us, beaming down like the sun. We can't always sense it or let it through, but it EXISTS, nonetheless.
So much more to be said about St. Paul's message, but that's for another time. Read!
Monday, February 3, 2014
Is This Funny?...
After a few years of reading the Bible, some stories stand out as, well, sort of..............duh!
Failures in Diplomacy:
Poor Joseph (Old Testament), needed some counseling about diplomacy in hostile territory. MAYBE it's not the best idea to tell ten brothers that already hate you that you've dreamed they are bowing down to you. Twice.
MAYBE it's not the best idea to tell the ruling King of Israel that a NEW KING was being born in Bethlehem, and that you were going there to worship him. I mean, couldn't they figure that one out? Nope. Once again, a dream. (Magi..1 AD.)
Like Father like son:
Do you know the story of Abraham in Egypt, when he claimed Sarah was his sister, and gave her over to the King's harem? God intervened by cluing the King in via a dream, and Sarah was returned.
Anyway, did you know that Jacob, Abraham's son, did the EXACT same thing with his wife, Rachel? Yup-took her to Egypt, claimed she was his sister, etc.
BUt, hey. All's well that ends well. They both came out ahead.
Failures in Diplomacy:
Poor Joseph (Old Testament), needed some counseling about diplomacy in hostile territory. MAYBE it's not the best idea to tell ten brothers that already hate you that you've dreamed they are bowing down to you. Twice.
MAYBE it's not the best idea to tell the ruling King of Israel that a NEW KING was being born in Bethlehem, and that you were going there to worship him. I mean, couldn't they figure that one out? Nope. Once again, a dream. (Magi..1 AD.)
Like Father like son:
Do you know the story of Abraham in Egypt, when he claimed Sarah was his sister, and gave her over to the King's harem? God intervened by cluing the King in via a dream, and Sarah was returned.
Anyway, did you know that Jacob, Abraham's son, did the EXACT same thing with his wife, Rachel? Yup-took her to Egypt, claimed she was his sister, etc.
BUt, hey. All's well that ends well. They both came out ahead.
Sunday, February 2, 2014
"The Journey Home"
For those who do not know,"The Journey Home" is a program on EWTN (Eternal Word Television Network), the Catholic station. (By the way, other than the Mormons, the Catholics are the only denomination to have it's own station.) This show was very instrumental in bringing me back to the Church. Here's why...
As I was flipping through stations, I saw a handsome 40-ish man speaking intently to a beautiful young woman. Just out of curiosity, I stopped and watched. They were talking about her conversion from the Episcopal Church to the Catholic Church. He (Marcus Grodi) was asking pointed questions concerning the reasons for her conversion. My first thought was "Oh come on-someone is actually converting TO CATHOLICISM? I've got to see this...."
You must understand, most Catholics I'd ever known were running AWAY from the Church, not TO it. Running away in droves, I might add. After my initial shock, I was intrigued. Her answers to Marcus' questions were simple-familiar to those of us brought up in the Faith: The presence of Christ in the Eucharist, the power of the Sacraments, Mary, the Saints, etc. She was extremely educated and intelligent, studying for her Phd in Theology. Her conclusion was that Christianity WAS Catholicism.
I thought about it, and began watching every week. The main appeal for me was it's intellectual tone. Guests gave very specific, rational reasons for their conversion (or RE-VERSION). For the most part, Marcus' guests were articulate, often students of Biblical history. Since I am one who must know "why", I discovered much about my own Faith. Sometimes it is a CONVERT who can show us the clearest picture of what we cannot see for ourselves. Things Catholics take for granted are new to them, and their beauty and truth is evident.
One caveat. If you are angry at the Church; if your mind is not open, this must be dealt with, first. I was not angry, just indifferent. I had come to understand that Christ was the key to our lives, but was still searching.
Please make "The Journey Home" a part of your tv schedule. Your Faith will be strengthened in so many ways. Marcus Grodi is an expert on extracting the exact thought, the exact moment that brought the speaker to the Church. Besides, I like a good story.
As I was flipping through stations, I saw a handsome 40-ish man speaking intently to a beautiful young woman. Just out of curiosity, I stopped and watched. They were talking about her conversion from the Episcopal Church to the Catholic Church. He (Marcus Grodi) was asking pointed questions concerning the reasons for her conversion. My first thought was "Oh come on-someone is actually converting TO CATHOLICISM? I've got to see this...."
You must understand, most Catholics I'd ever known were running AWAY from the Church, not TO it. Running away in droves, I might add. After my initial shock, I was intrigued. Her answers to Marcus' questions were simple-familiar to those of us brought up in the Faith: The presence of Christ in the Eucharist, the power of the Sacraments, Mary, the Saints, etc. She was extremely educated and intelligent, studying for her Phd in Theology. Her conclusion was that Christianity WAS Catholicism.
I thought about it, and began watching every week. The main appeal for me was it's intellectual tone. Guests gave very specific, rational reasons for their conversion (or RE-VERSION). For the most part, Marcus' guests were articulate, often students of Biblical history. Since I am one who must know "why", I discovered much about my own Faith. Sometimes it is a CONVERT who can show us the clearest picture of what we cannot see for ourselves. Things Catholics take for granted are new to them, and their beauty and truth is evident.
One caveat. If you are angry at the Church; if your mind is not open, this must be dealt with, first. I was not angry, just indifferent. I had come to understand that Christ was the key to our lives, but was still searching.
Please make "The Journey Home" a part of your tv schedule. Your Faith will be strengthened in so many ways. Marcus Grodi is an expert on extracting the exact thought, the exact moment that brought the speaker to the Church. Besides, I like a good story.
Wednesday, January 29, 2014
Lapsed Catholics
Andrew Wommack (see sidebar) inspired me to write about those many, many Catholics who are angry at the Church. I'm not saying it's unjustified. I'm only saying that you rarely find Evangelicals, Baptists
or Pentecostals holding on to such anger, even if they leave their denominations.
On his show today, (Gospel Truth), Andrew spoke about the criticism
he faced simply trying to adhere to the Scriptures by a denomination professing to believe just that. Catholics can face similar criticisms, and
we need to know how to answer them.
Unfortunately, there has been much of what we call "poor catechesis" in the Church. (Converts, you can skip this part.) This is an understatement. What it boils down to is a great emphasis on outer conformity, and not enough on inner substance.
The Catholic Church has been accused of consisting only of outward rituals. Rituals that had to be followed to the letter, under penalty of eternal damnation. This is not true. Rituals are not meaningless; the reasons for them goes back to the origins of Christianity. But we must know the substance that lies behind the things that we do.
Behind all the "pomp and circumstance" of the Catholic Church, is the Living God-Jesus Christ-who must become part of our lives. He is the center of our faith, yet often remains a vague and distant figure,
too Holy to be approached.
Growing up, my CCD (Religious Instruction) classes focused on memorization and rules. Maybe it was just easier. I don't know. But I
do know this: There is a generation who have turned away from the Church, and they need to be brought back.
or Pentecostals holding on to such anger, even if they leave their denominations.
On his show today, (Gospel Truth), Andrew spoke about the criticism
he faced simply trying to adhere to the Scriptures by a denomination professing to believe just that. Catholics can face similar criticisms, and
we need to know how to answer them.
Unfortunately, there has been much of what we call "poor catechesis" in the Church. (Converts, you can skip this part.) This is an understatement. What it boils down to is a great emphasis on outer conformity, and not enough on inner substance.
The Catholic Church has been accused of consisting only of outward rituals. Rituals that had to be followed to the letter, under penalty of eternal damnation. This is not true. Rituals are not meaningless; the reasons for them goes back to the origins of Christianity. But we must know the substance that lies behind the things that we do.
Behind all the "pomp and circumstance" of the Catholic Church, is the Living God-Jesus Christ-who must become part of our lives. He is the center of our faith, yet often remains a vague and distant figure,
too Holy to be approached.
Growing up, my CCD (Religious Instruction) classes focused on memorization and rules. Maybe it was just easier. I don't know. But I
do know this: There is a generation who have turned away from the Church, and they need to be brought back.
Sunday, January 26, 2014
St. Augustine
If your English teacher ever corrected you for "run-on" sentences, get a load of anything by St. Augustine. Paragraphs long.
I am currently reading bits and pieces of "City of God", in which he addresses every conceivable topic about the early Church. I've long wondered why he was so popular as a Christian author, and I'm beginning to understand.
His topics alone are fascinating. He argues against every Roman god (while they were still being worshipped), essentially saying "If your gods are so great, why did they allow Rome to be besieged?"
Or, "If Christianity is the cause of all your problems, why don't YOUR gods come in and rescue you?"
Or, in a more serious vein, "Virtue cannot be damaged if one is violated (by the Barbarians). It does not rest upon a physical act, but by the intent of the soul."
Writing during the 4th Century A.D.-that's 354-430, the New Testament was still being formed. He had no Scriptures of Jesus Christ, or Paul of Tarsus to rely upon.
He wrote volumes about Christianity, arguing points that hold up even in today's cynical climate, and he's extremely understandable. The writing is not stiff nor formal,which is why he's still read today. He stands out amongst what must have been hundreds of clergy by the sheer clarity and quantity of his work.
If you are wondering at all about God, or why you should believe in Him, please read Augustine of Hippo.
I am currently reading bits and pieces of "City of God", in which he addresses every conceivable topic about the early Church. I've long wondered why he was so popular as a Christian author, and I'm beginning to understand.
His topics alone are fascinating. He argues against every Roman god (while they were still being worshipped), essentially saying "If your gods are so great, why did they allow Rome to be besieged?"
Or, "If Christianity is the cause of all your problems, why don't YOUR gods come in and rescue you?"
Or, in a more serious vein, "Virtue cannot be damaged if one is violated (by the Barbarians). It does not rest upon a physical act, but by the intent of the soul."
Writing during the 4th Century A.D.-that's 354-430, the New Testament was still being formed. He had no Scriptures of Jesus Christ, or Paul of Tarsus to rely upon.
He wrote volumes about Christianity, arguing points that hold up even in today's cynical climate, and he's extremely understandable. The writing is not stiff nor formal,which is why he's still read today. He stands out amongst what must have been hundreds of clergy by the sheer clarity and quantity of his work.
If you are wondering at all about God, or why you should believe in Him, please read Augustine of Hippo.
Monday, January 13, 2014
The Way to the Father
I used to think that Jesus couldn't have really meant it when he said He was the only way to the Father. "Pretty exclusive", I thought, remembering how it was used as a club over those who did not agree with a particular Christian sect.
What about all the people who believe in God, just not in the narrow definition of reaching him through Jesus Christ only?
So glad you asked.
Jesus was a Jew- we know this. The Jewish people believed in one God, who had picked them to be his chosen people. Other nations either had many gods, or worshipped an entity-as the Egyptians had their sun god (among others).
Christianity comes from the Jewish God-the God of Abraham. He is a very specific Diety belonging to the Jews, and then to the rest of us.
From a long line of Jewish prophets there came many predictions of the future, especially a Messiah. These prophesies are specific as well, and Jesus Christ fulfilled all of them.
So IF we believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, we must believe that this God is the God of Abraham. If Jesus said that it is only through HIM that we can "come to the Father", we'd better believe Him. There is only one God He can be talking about.
We can't have it both ways. To be a Christian, we must know that it is through Christ that we reach the Father. If we do NOT believe that Jesus is the only Way, we relinquish our Christianity.
Think about it.
What about all the people who believe in God, just not in the narrow definition of reaching him through Jesus Christ only?
So glad you asked.
Jesus was a Jew- we know this. The Jewish people believed in one God, who had picked them to be his chosen people. Other nations either had many gods, or worshipped an entity-as the Egyptians had their sun god (among others).
Christianity comes from the Jewish God-the God of Abraham. He is a very specific Diety belonging to the Jews, and then to the rest of us.
From a long line of Jewish prophets there came many predictions of the future, especially a Messiah. These prophesies are specific as well, and Jesus Christ fulfilled all of them.
So IF we believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, we must believe that this God is the God of Abraham. If Jesus said that it is only through HIM that we can "come to the Father", we'd better believe Him. There is only one God He can be talking about.
We can't have it both ways. To be a Christian, we must know that it is through Christ that we reach the Father. If we do NOT believe that Jesus is the only Way, we relinquish our Christianity.
Think about it.
Sunday, January 12, 2014
The Logic of God
Many people claim they do not believe in God for one reason: They can't see Him, hear Him, touch Him nor feel (debatable) Him. There is no "evidence" of Him from our five senses. This is a weak argument at best, considering that in the last century we have acknowledged the existence of so many intangible things that do exist. Atoms, radio waves and even cell phone signals to name a few.
"But these things can be proven by science!" Some will say. Perhaps, to a degree. But much science of the early 20th century is giving way to new discoveries, rendering previously held iron-clad beliefs untrue- or at the least incomplete.
All I'm saying is that over the centuries, there has been much evidence of a supernatural power who intervenes in man's life. Much more evidence for than against. Just because we don't believe in Him, doesn't mean He doesn't exist. Just because man thought the earth was flat didn't mean it was.
Yes, atheists often use the same argument. "There's no God. No matter how strongly you believe otherwise, you just can't make it so."
Neither can you.
"But these things can be proven by science!" Some will say. Perhaps, to a degree. But much science of the early 20th century is giving way to new discoveries, rendering previously held iron-clad beliefs untrue- or at the least incomplete.
All I'm saying is that over the centuries, there has been much evidence of a supernatural power who intervenes in man's life. Much more evidence for than against. Just because we don't believe in Him, doesn't mean He doesn't exist. Just because man thought the earth was flat didn't mean it was.
Yes, atheists often use the same argument. "There's no God. No matter how strongly you believe otherwise, you just can't make it so."
Neither can you.
Saturday, January 4, 2014
Defending the Faith
It is often said that Catholics have trouble defending their Faith because they do not know it very well. Sadly, this is often true. Yet in spite of knowledge of Bible texts, our "separated brethren" often do not know the basic truths of their beliefs, either. On the left sidebar, I have noted the great gains I have received from protestant ministers; but I am now speaking only of the Catholic Faith, and our beliefs.
There is much criticism of Catholic rituals such as the Rosary, incense, even the elegance of the churches themselves. There is much misunderstanding of actual historical fact, which can leave us dumbfounded if we do not know the truth.
Did you know that the Catholic Bible contains seven more books than any other Bible, including the King James, International, etc? The Catholic Church did not ADD these books on a whim, but as a result of the reformation, they were removed. The original King James version, published in 1611 contained all of those seven books. All were Old Testament.
Do you know where the Bible actually COMES FROM? From the Catholic Church, the only exsisting Church of Jesus Christ at the time. For almost 400 years BEFORE the Bible was consolidated, the Church existed and grew. After persecution ceased, Christians were free to assemble, and free to gather the writings of the Gospels, St. Paul and other teachings into one book. The Church existed for humdreds of years BEFORE the Bible was created. The Bible came from the Church, the Church was not formed by the Bible.
Another point. After reading a recent book by a celebrity on Jesus Christ, a Catholic friend crowed "Did you know that Jesus only preached for one year, not three years?" "Says who?' I asked. "Oh so-and-so" she responded. "He did lots of research." "Hmmmm", I thought.
"More research than hundreds of years of study by Theological scholars?" I asked."Oh yes, there's new evidence." She answered.
Okay, now I HAVE NOT READ THIS BOOK, so I do not know what evidence there is, nor what was written about it. But my point is that my friend was willing to jump on anything proving the Bible wrong, and to believe it without question.
Lastly, consider this: The Catholic Church is over 2,000 years old. It has been through persecution, barbarian invasion, wars upon wars, and conflicts with a long line of world rulers. Some decisions were bad, most were good. Give any denomination 2,000 years, and some mistakes will be made.
I've also noticed that countries themselves are not held to account for THEIR misdeeds. The Spanish Inquisition is constantly brought up as evidence of injustice and cruelty, but do we continue to revile France because 200 years ago their revolution was bloody and unjust? No. While the Church must be held to a higher standard, we have continued to strive for this for hundreds of years. More than I can say for..never mind.
There is much criticism of Catholic rituals such as the Rosary, incense, even the elegance of the churches themselves. There is much misunderstanding of actual historical fact, which can leave us dumbfounded if we do not know the truth.
Did you know that the Catholic Bible contains seven more books than any other Bible, including the King James, International, etc? The Catholic Church did not ADD these books on a whim, but as a result of the reformation, they were removed. The original King James version, published in 1611 contained all of those seven books. All were Old Testament.
Do you know where the Bible actually COMES FROM? From the Catholic Church, the only exsisting Church of Jesus Christ at the time. For almost 400 years BEFORE the Bible was consolidated, the Church existed and grew. After persecution ceased, Christians were free to assemble, and free to gather the writings of the Gospels, St. Paul and other teachings into one book. The Church existed for humdreds of years BEFORE the Bible was created. The Bible came from the Church, the Church was not formed by the Bible.
Another point. After reading a recent book by a celebrity on Jesus Christ, a Catholic friend crowed "Did you know that Jesus only preached for one year, not three years?" "Says who?' I asked. "Oh so-and-so" she responded. "He did lots of research." "Hmmmm", I thought.
"More research than hundreds of years of study by Theological scholars?" I asked."Oh yes, there's new evidence." She answered.
Okay, now I HAVE NOT READ THIS BOOK, so I do not know what evidence there is, nor what was written about it. But my point is that my friend was willing to jump on anything proving the Bible wrong, and to believe it without question.
Lastly, consider this: The Catholic Church is over 2,000 years old. It has been through persecution, barbarian invasion, wars upon wars, and conflicts with a long line of world rulers. Some decisions were bad, most were good. Give any denomination 2,000 years, and some mistakes will be made.
I've also noticed that countries themselves are not held to account for THEIR misdeeds. The Spanish Inquisition is constantly brought up as evidence of injustice and cruelty, but do we continue to revile France because 200 years ago their revolution was bloody and unjust? No. While the Church must be held to a higher standard, we have continued to strive for this for hundreds of years. More than I can say for..never mind.
Pressing On...
It has been 6 weeks since I have written. Many things are happening right now, and many thoughts of faith swirling around.
I am not one to watch Masses on tv, but the Christmas Day National Shrine Mass (EWTN) was exceptionally moving. The choir sang the most beautiful version of 'The First Noel" that I have ever heard. The Communion offering from Cardinal Donald Wuerl showed the face of Christ in the Church if I have ever seen it. So kind and so Godly was he, it moved me to tears.
An aside: Could swear I saw Newt Gingrich in the front row of the congregation. He converted a few years ago. Did not see his wife, though.
I am not one to watch Masses on tv, but the Christmas Day National Shrine Mass (EWTN) was exceptionally moving. The choir sang the most beautiful version of 'The First Noel" that I have ever heard. The Communion offering from Cardinal Donald Wuerl showed the face of Christ in the Church if I have ever seen it. So kind and so Godly was he, it moved me to tears.
An aside: Could swear I saw Newt Gingrich in the front row of the congregation. He converted a few years ago. Did not see his wife, though.
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