Gospel Today - People brought to him a paralytic

And there people brought to him a paralytic lying on a stretcher. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, "Courage, child, your sins are forgiven." Matthew 9:2 NAB

June 30, 2011 - Thursday of the Thirteenth Week in Ordinary Time

• 1st Reading -- Genesis 22:1b-19
  
• Responsorial -- 115:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 8-9
  R. I will walk in the presence of the Lord, in the land of the living
  
• 2nd Reading -- Matthew 9:1-8
  
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 9:1-8
  

English Pinay singer Cherrie Anderson tops WYD chart

Congratulations to Cherrie Anderson! The song is indeed very Spirit-filled and resonates well with the hearts of the present generation of Christians. I would love to promote this song to friends. You may find her other song, "Unshakable" equally empowering. Check it out at: http://soundcloud.com/ooberfuse/

'Faith in You' by British singer Cherrie Anderson, has received the most visits on the web with 400,405 plays and 50,286 votes. The song is one of the seven selected by the jury of the Tuned into Madrid song contest. More...

“I am happy and humbled that my songs have been chosen from out of the 270 entries. When I submitted them earlier this year there were only around 20 entries,” Anderson said upon learning of her selection as one of the winners. “There are some really good songs included in the other submissions so my expectations were not that high. It is incredible that both songs Faith in You and Unshakeable were actually listened to by young people all over the world more than half a million times.” More...

Gospel Today - You used to dress yourself and go where you wanted (Vigil)

Amen, amen, I say to you, when you were younger, you used to dress yourself and go where you wanted; but when you grow old, you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go. John 21:18 NAB

June 29, 2011 - Solemnity of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, Apostles Vigil Mass

• 1st Reading -- Acts 3:1-10
  
• Responsorial -- Psalms 19:2-3, 4-5
  R. Their message goes out through all the earth
  
• 2nd Reading -- Galatians 1:11-20
  
• Gospel Today -- John 21:15-19

Gospel Today - Upon this rock I will build my church

Amen, amen, I say to you, when you were younger, you used to dress yourself and go where you wanted; but when you grow old, you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go. John 21:18 NAB

June 29, 2011 - Solemnity of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, Apostles Vigil Mass

• 1st Reading -- Acts 3:1-10
  
• Responsorial -- 19:2-3, 4-5
  R. Their message goes out through all the earth
  
• 2nd Reading -- Galatians 1:11-20
  
• Gospel Today -- John 21:15-19
  

In US, Nearly 400 attend 30th annual Catholic Charismatic Conference in Hollywood

HOLLYWOOD - Close to 400 people seized the opportunity to be spiritually fed, receive God’s graces, and experience the mystery of Pentecost during the Archdiocese of Miami’s 30th annual Catholic Charismatic Conference, whose theme was “A Future Full of Hope.”

St. Louis parishioner Maria Lang, who is a member of Life in the Spirit and Magnificat, attends the charismatic conference each year.

“I need to be fed,” she said. “By attending the conference I receive more of the Word of God. He is always there… You need to come to him, he is our home. We need to rely on not just knowing but believing.” More...

Gospel Today - Lord, save us!

Suddenly a violent storm came up on the sea, so that the boat was being swamped by waves; but he was asleep. They came and woke him, saying, "Lord, save us! We are perishing!" Matthew 8:24-25 NAB

June 28, 2011 - Memorial of Saint Irenaeus, bishop and martyr

• 1st Reading -- Genesis 19:15-29
  
• Responsorial -- 26:2-3, 9-10, 11-12
  R. O Lord, your mercy is before my eyes
  
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 8:23-27

Vatican calls on businesses to be ethical, create economic justice

What is the economic system advocated by the Catholic Church? The Church does not give a name for it, but it is an economic system that creates wealth for the individual, the company and society in general, through some sort of a continuum that doesn't get stuck at any point. It is an economic system where one profits with the others, and not at the expense of the others. 

Carol Glatz of the Catholic News Service writes: The Vatican and some Catholic thinkers are urging businesses to not only employ ethical policies within their companies, but to become dedicated to bringing economic justice to the wider world.

In fact, people should be wary of superficial ethical practices that “are adopted primarily as a marketing device, without any effect on relationships inside and outside the business itself” and without promoting justice and the common good, said Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone [pictured], the Vatican’s secretary of state.

In his talk June 16, Cardinal Bertone said the encyclical makes clear that there is no way businesses can remain ethically neutral: They are either serving the common good or they are not, such as “when they fail to produce quality products, ignore innovation, fail to create wealth and jobs, and pay no taxes.” More...

Recommended Book by Cardinal Bertone: The Last Secret of Fatima

Gospel Today - Let the dead bury their dead

Another of (his) disciples said to him, "Lord, let me go first and bury my father." But Jesus answered him, "Follow me, and let the dead bury their dead." Matthew 8:21-22 NAB

June 27, 2011 - Monday of the Thirteenth Week in Ordinary Time

• 1st Reading -- Genesis 18:16-33
  
• Responsorial -- Psalms 103:1b-2, 3-4, 8-9, 10-11
  R. The Lord is kind and merciful
  
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 8:18-22

US Bishops will join English-speaking Pilgrims at World Youth Day

May God be glorified in the upcoming World Youth Day. May everyone who go there come home greatly empowered to share the Christian faith and Catholic Church with their friends and community. There is rebirth going on like the modern Pentecost, and everyone is invited to this banquet of divine love.

WASHINGTON (MetroCatholic)—U.S. pilgrims attending World Youth Day (WYD) Madrid 2011 will have the added benefit of a youth facility providing English-language programming. Called “Love and Life: A Home for English-Speaking Pilgrims,” the center will be located at Madrid’s Palacio de los Deportes, the city’s premiere civic and sports arena. A Mass specifically for U.S. pilgrims is scheduled at the facility the morning of Saturday, August 20, with over 60 U.S. bishops expected to participate and concelebrate.

Activities at the center, scheduled around the WYD program of events, will include Masses and devotions, catechesis sessions, concerts, speakers, testimonies, prayer, movie screenings, and more. The air-conditioned facility seats 15,000 in its main event hall and its exhibition areas will contain a chapel specially constructed for WYD, as well as informational displays, an art show and support for the young visitors to Spain’s capital city. It will also offer them a place to rest from the summer heat. More ...

Gospel Reflection: The Eucharist IS the Body of Christ - An Outrageous Claim?

I was shocked. Where's the Eucharist? They ate biscuits and drank juice to commemorate the Last Supper. I knew they meant well, but I felt deep inside that something was sorely lacking.

The priest administers the Eucharist saying, "Body of Christ."
Image from Wikipedia

That was my experience when I got invited to a non-Catholic group that claims legitimacy from the Bible alone. They asked me if I wanted to be a "disciple." I didn't join them, of course, nor ever intended to. I went there out of curiosity.

At that time I just felt it, but couldn't find words for it. But this time, I can write at least a bit about the Eucharist. Let me elaborate

Gospel Today - "My flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink"

Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him on the last day. For my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink. John 6:54-55 NAB

June 26, 2011 - Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ

• 1st Reading -- Deuteronomy 8:2-3, 14b-16a
• Responsorial -- Psalms 147:12-13, 14-15, 19-20
  R. Praise the Lord, Jerusalem
• 2nd Reading -- 1 Corinthians 10:16-17
• Gospel Today -- John 6:51-58

Vatican tries to revive Eucharistic adoration

For a moment, I asked, "Why is the Eucharistic Adoration even an issue?" Frankly speaking, this is my first time to come across an objection to the Eucharistic adoration.

In John 6:55, Jesus said, "For my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink." By adoring the Eucharist, I acknowledge that truth with humility and awe. The body of Christ is here, and we are looking at it! Imagine what that does the next time you take the Holy Communion.

Photo courtesy of Wikipedia

VATICAN CITY (RNS) For seven centuries, Eucharistic adoration -- praying before an exposed consecrated Communion host -- was one of the most popular forms of devotion in the Roman Catholic Church, the focus of beloved prayers and hymns and a distinctive symbol of Catholic identity.

Following the modernizing reforms of the Second Vatican Council (1962-65), the practice fell from favor, especially in Europe and the U.S. But over the last decade, under Popes John Paul II and Benedict XVI, the church has strongly encouraged a revival of the practice.

"No one eat this flesh, if he has not adored it before; for we sin if we do not adore," Benedict said, quoting St. Augustine, in a 2009 speech at the Vatican. More...

Children need the presence, guidance of fathers in family life

Dads have a vital role to play in a person's life, especially in the early years. Science has already proven that; but society in general needs to open its eyes to that reality. It's not a new thing. It's something we, as human beings, have always known deep within. It's why we celebrated Father's Day last Sunday.

How do you remember your father? If you remember him with fondness, honor him by emulating his good deeds. If you remember him with resentment, honor him just the same by being a better father to your children.

Dr. Astrid Heathcote [pictured], licensed clinical psychologist, writes at ahwatukee.com:  Pope Benedict XVI once stated: "The family is the nucleus in which a person first learns human love and cultivates the virtues of responsibility, generosity and caring."

There are significant benefits for being a dad as well, such a better overall health, higher self-esteem and a positive self image (Ohio State University, 2003). Some researchers stress the level of "connectedness" between father and child, describing it as the development of a bond that occurs over time, where the child not only perceives the love of the father but also his general acceptance. It is a process of trust and closeness growing into this significant connectedness. The more connected a child feels with his parents and father, the more likely he or she is to trust him/herself and others in order to enjoy stable relationships with peers and adults outside of home. A close-knit family relationship is effective in protecting children from problems such as depression, suicide, precocious sexual activity and drug use (The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse, Columbia University, 2003). More...

Gospel Today - Only say the word and my servant will be healed

He said to him, "I will come and cure him." The centurion said in reply, "Lord, I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof; only say the word and my servant will be healed." Matthew 8:7-8 NAB

June 25, 2011 - Saturday of the Twelfth Week in Ordinary Time

• 1st Reading -- Genesis 18:1-15
• Responsorial -- Luke 1:46-47, 48-49, 50 and 53, 54-5
  R. The Lord has remembered his mercy
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 8:5-17

Changing Catholic Church not difficult; it's just impossible

You will see that this article is a very Catholic argument against the actuations of the American Catholic Council, a group that seeks "democratic changes" in the Church. There are demands that are within the capability of the Church leadership to grant. There are those that the Church leadership simply cannot, by virtue of the fundamental tenets of the Church.

Mike Stechschulte writes at TheTimesHerald.com: Jesus tells us that His kingdom is "not of this world" (John 18:36), and Paul reminds us that "our citizenship is in heaven" (Philippians 3:20), surpassing that of any earthly nation.

The American Catholic Council, in its push to "democratize" the church, shows why it isn't the Catholic American Council. It uses the Constitution to justify its positions, not the Catechism.

The assertion of the American Catholic Council that the Council of Nicea in 325 A.D. established that "popes and bishops were chosen by the people at large," is patently false.

Bishops -- which includes the pope -- were never selected by the faithful, but always through the imposition of hands by another bishop, which itself goes back to Scripture (Acts 13:3, 1 Timothy 4:14).

Gospel Today (Vigil) - "You shall name him John"

But the angel said to him, "Do not be afraid, Zechariah, because your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall name him John. And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth. Luke 1:13-14 NAB

June 24, 2011 - Solemnity of the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist Vigil

• 1st Reading -- Jeremiah 1:4-10
• Responsorial -- Psalms 71:1-2, 3-4a, 5-6ab, 15ab and 17
  R. Since my mother’s womb, you have been my strength
• 2nd Reading -- 1 Peter 1:8-12
• Gospel Today -- Luke 1:5-17

Gospel Today - He asked for a tablet and wrote, "John is his name"

He asked for a tablet and wrote, "John is his name," and all were amazed. Immediately his mouth was opened, his tongue freed, and he spoke blessing God. Luke 1:63-64 NAB

June 24, 2011 - Solemnity of the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist (Readings for the Mass during the Day)

• 1st Reading -- Isaiah 49:1-6
• Responsorial -- Psalms 139:1b-3, 13-14ab, 14c-15
  R. I praise you, for I am wonderfully made
• 2nd Reading -- Acts of the Apostles 13:22-26
• Gospel Today -- Luke 1:57-66, 80

Let Your Kids Struggle and Fail!

This really and really grabbed my attention. While showering our kids with love and affection, it would be a big mistake to NOT let our kids get hurt. The only way they can grow is to let them deal with realities of both victory and failure, happiness and pain, excitement and depression, and the like. To let them experience only half of reality is to disempower them.

Mr. Randy Hain of the Integrated Catholic Life writes: Don’t get me wrong. I like fairness. I am also strongly in favor of encouraging young people.  But, I also appreciate the pursuit of excellence. Competition can be a healthy thing that also encourages children to excel and give their best effort on the playing field and in school. Instead of assuming that our kids might be hurt or negatively impacted by failure or struggle, perhaps we should consider that they will learn valuable lessons from these experiences.  More...

Gospel Today - Everyone who listens builds his house on rock

Everyone who listens to these words of mine and acts on them will be like a wise man who built his house on rock. The rain fell, the floods came, and the winds blew and buffeted the house. But it did not collapse; it had been set solidly on rock. Matthew 7:24-25 NAB

June 23, 2011 - Thursday of the Twelfth Week in Ordinary Time

• 1st Reading -- Genesis 16:1-12, 15-16
• Responsorial -- Psalms 106:1b-2, 3-4a, 4b-5
  R. Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 7:21-29

In Spain, Pope gets manga treatment in time for World Youth Day

Children and young adults today need a hero, a leader, they can count on. In this age and time, why not the Pope? Excellent idea. The manga would certainly communicate that well to the young and the young at heart. I pray for Jonathan Lin's success. I further pray that I may get hold of one of the his mangas soon.

MOVE over, Spider-Man. Here come some new comic-book heroes.

Among this new breed of heroes are Pope Benedict XVI, St. Paul and Old Testament figure Judith.

They are the stars of comic books done in a style older generations never saw in the comic-book rack at the neighborhood drugstore growing up. The genre is called manga, a Japanese genre of cartoons and comic books, and Jonathan Lin, who runs Manga Hero, may well be the world’s only publisher of Catholic manga comics.

“I wanted to start my own business – something that could positively influence young people, who are especially influenced by media,” Lin told Catholic News Service in a June 3 telephone interview from San Rafael, Calif. More . . .

Gospel Today - By their fruits you will know them

By their fruits you will know them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? Just so, every good tree bears good fruit, and a rotten tree bears bad fruit. Matthew 7:16-17 NAB

June 22, 2011 - Wednesday of the Twelfth Week in Ordinary Time

• 1st Reading -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18
• Responsorial -- Psalms 105:1-2, 3-4, 6-7, 8-9
  R. The Lord remembers his covenant for ever
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 7:15-20

Pope meets Gypsies, urges end to prejudice, oppression, rejection

The origin of Gypsies in Central India is almost certain. Looking at their distribution across Europe and the Americas, I cannot help but ask, "What does God want these people to contribute to the lands to whom they have been sent?" Tales of discrimination is heart-breaking. Fellow Filipinos who have been scattered all over the globe can feel much more blessed despite their hardships -- their identities and their connection to their motherland are intact. Gypsies don't have that same privilege for hundreds of years.  

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Pope Benedict XVI prayed that the world's Gypsies no longer be subjected to prejudice, oppression and rejection.

Portrait of a Spanish Gypsy Woman from Wikipedia.org. The Indian features are unmistakable.

Gypsies should always uphold "justice, legality, reconciliation and strive to never be the cause of someone else's suffering," he said in a festive meeting with nearly 2,000 Gypsies, Roma, Sinti and Travellers in the Vatican's Paul VI hall June 11. More . . .

Books about Gypsies:

• The Gypsies by Jan Yoors
• Bury Me Standing: The Gypsies and Their Journey

Gospel Today - Do to others whatever you would have them do to you

Do to others whatever you would have them do to you. This is the law and the prophets. Matthew 7:12 NAB

June 21, 2011 - Memorial of Saint Aloysius Gonzaga, religious

• 1st Reading -- Gn 13:2, 5-18
• Responsorial -- Psalms 15:2-3a, 3bc-4ab, 5
  R. He who does justice will live in the presence of the Lord
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 7:6, 12-14

In US, Priest says all are welcome in his church

Before we rush to conclusions about where this particular priest stands with respect to gays and lesbians, let us understand that the Church wants us to hate sin, but not the sinner. It would be a big mistake to condone homosexual acts, in the same way that we do not condone heterosexual acts outside of marriage. But it would be more horrendously against the will of God to keep these people outside of the life of the Church.

Sunday Mass at St. Cecilia’s Church in the Back Bay brought the first standing ovation any parishioner could remember.

During the first Mass since the Archdiocese of Boston canceled one planned for next weekend in support of St. Cecilia’s gay and lesbian churchgoers, the Rev. John J. Unni preached a fiery message of unconditional love and what he called “acceptance of all.’’

“You are welcome here, gay or straight, rich or poor, young or old, black or white,’’ Unni said as he paced up and down the center aisle. “Here, you all can say, ‘I can worship the God who made me as I am.’ ’’ More . . .

Gospel Today - As you judge, so will you be judged

For as you judge, so will you be judged, and the measure with which you measure will be measured out to you. Matthew 7:2 NAB

June 20, 2011 - Monday of the Twelfth Week in Ordinary Time

• 1st Reading -- Genesis 12:1-9
• Responsorial -- Psalms 33:12-13, 18-19, 20 and 22
  R. Blessed the people the Lord has chosen to be his own
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 7:1-5

Special Vatican meeting discussed problems of religious life

Interesting. This piece of news reminds us of that episode in the gospel wherein the mother of James and John asked Jesus to let them sit at the left and at the right (Mark 10:35-37). The rest of the disciples became indignant. This is still happening among Christian leaders today, among the priests, the nuns and the laity. Something gets into our head, and its size blows up like crazy. God loves all of us, without exception, just the same.

At a special June 13 meeting convened by Pope Benedict XVI, the leaders of the Roman Curia discussed several concerns about religious life , according to the leading Vatican journalist, Andrea Tornielli.

The topics discussed during the meeting included the importance of maintaining separation between men’s and women’s religious communities; the limits of lay leadership (especially over priests); and the pitfalls of excessive devotion to the founder of a religious congregation or to an apostolic movement. In discussing the excesses that should be avoided in religious communities, the dicastery leaders reportedly emphasized that the commitment to a religious congregation or movement should never work against the unity of the universal Church, the authority of the teaching magisterium, or the conscience of the individual member. More...

Gospel Today - For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son

For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life. Jn 3:16 NAB

June 19, 2011 - The Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity

• 1st Reading -- Exodus 34:4b-6, 8-9
• Responsorial -- Deuteronomy 3:52, 53, 54, 55, 56
  R. Glory and praise for ever!
• 2nd Reading -- 2 Corinthians 13:11-13
• Gospel Today -- Jn 3:16-18

"Evangelize with courage, conviction, joy," Pope says

When almost everyone in the society you live in is a Christian, that can lead to casualness in the way we exercise our faith. That's not necessarily bad, except for the fact that the mission is still in progress! In today's interconnected world, the need to continue announcing our faith becomes very apparent. Evangelization strengthens the messenger and empowers the receiver.

Pope encourages faithful 'to show the beauty and the reasonableness of faith, bringing the light of God to man in our time, with courage, conviction and joy.'

ROME (CNA/EWTN News) —The effort to renew the evangelization of mankind begins in the human heart, Pope Benedict XVI told the clergy, religious and laity of the Diocese of Rome on June 13.

“To be effective, the proclamation of faith must begin with a heart that believes, hopes, loves; a heart that loves Christ and believes in the power of the Holy Spirit!” the Pope told those gathered at St. John Lateran Cathedral for the Rome Diocese’s annual convention. More . . .

Vatican invites Pacquiao of Philippines to be guest speaker in World Youth Day

Manny Pacquiao's well-known "trademark" in boxing is his short moment in the corner to pray before and after a fight. He is an openly Catholic individual while being a star-studded individual in the field of world boxing. If he accepts the Vatican invitation, delegates to the World Youth Day would see and hear him speak.

MANILA, Philippines – Congressman and boxing champ Manny Pacquiao may just be the first-ever Filipino to be a guest speaker at the World Youth Day (WYD) celebrations. This year, the World Youth Day festivities will be held in Spain.

The eight-division world champion, a devout Roman Catholic, often credits his achievements as blessings from his Creator. Pacquiao’s spirituality likewise translates to his firm yet frequently criticized position against the controversial Reproductive Health (RH) Bill. More...

Meanwhile, in Michigan USA...

Hearts on Fire Michigan "World Youth Day Pilgrim Edition" Retreat

Gospel Today - Seek first the kingdom (of God) and his righteousness

But seek first the kingdom (of God) and his righteousness, and all these things will be given you besides. Mt 6:33 NAB

June 18, 2011 - Saturday of the Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time

• 1st Reading -- 2 Corinthians 12:1-10
• Responsorial -- Psalms 34:8-9, 10-11, 12-13
  R. Taste and see the goodness of the Lord
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 6:24-34

The Church was Catholic from the very first moment

REMINDER FOR ALL CATHOLICS: That the message of Christ is for everyone, that the Good News is a universal (or Catholic) message, has been clear to everyone who was present during the descent of the Holy Spirit. It was why they went out and spoke in different tongues to reach out to Jews and Gentiles alike from different places. That beautiful thing has not changed, nor will that ever be. Christ's loving Kingship is over the entire human race and the whole of creation, timeless and unchanging.

VATICAN CITY, 12 JUN 2011 (VIS) - At 9.30 a.m. today, the Feast of Pentecost, the Holy Father presided at Mass in the Vatican Basilica.

In his homily the Holy Father said that "the Spirit which created all things, and the Holy Spirit which Christ caused to descend from the Father upon the community of disciples, are one and the same. Creation and redemption are mutually intertwined and constitute a single mystery of love and salvation".

"The Church was catholic from the first moment of her existence. Her universality is not the result of the subsequent inclusion of different communities: from the first instant the Holy Spirit created her as the Church of all peoples. She embraces the entire world, crossing frontiers of race, class and nation, breaking down barriers and uniting mankind in the proclamation of the One and Triune God. From her beginnings, the Church was one, catholic and apostolic. This is her true nature and as such she must be recognised. She is holy, not thanks to any capacity of her members, but because God Himself, with His Spirit, continuously creates, purifies and sanctifies her". More...

In Philippines, bishops call for dialogue on Spratlys

The conflicting claims in Spratly is causing a strain in the relationship between China and its Southeast-Asian neighbors. Though China has a strong warrior history, its foreign policy has never been known to make use of force (except perhaps in the case of UN attack on North Korea). Is that about to change? Either way, Philippine bishops are not taking things sitting down.

FILIPINO bishops have called on countries claiming the Spratly Islands in the South China Sea to stop their “war of words” and start formal talks over the issue.

Bishop Pedro Arigo [pictured] of Puerto Princesa said the government should initiate formal talks among all claimants of the disputed islands. They include China, Taiwan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Brunei and Vietnam. Most of them occupy one or more of the chain of tiny islands and reefs. More...

Gospel Today - Store up treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor decay destroys

But store up treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor decay destroys, nor thieves break in and steal. Mt 6:20 NAB

June 17, 2011 - Friday of the Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time

• 1st Reading -- 2 Corinthians 11:18, 21-30
• Responsorial -- Psalms 34:2-3, 4-5, 6-7
  R. From all their distress God rescues the just
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 6:19-23

In Vatican, Business ethics is focus of upcoming summit

The world's horrible experience after Enron and its likes should have jolted everyone into the reality of ethics as an essential ingredient of a just and civil society, not just on a micro-level, but also at the level of society. It is very comforting to note that the Church is right in the middle of the task of reminding business about the seriousness of their stewardship roles.

Vatican City, Jun 12, 2011 / 03:17 pm (CNA/EWTN News).- The ethics of finance will take center stage at the Vatican next week as business leaders from around the globe arrive for a two day “Executive Summit on Ethics for the Business World” from June 16 to 17.

“As a Church we never yield to the status quo and never should stop provoking or taking people beyond the status quo,” Cardinal Peter Turkson, president of the summit co-organizer Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, told Vatican Radio June 10. More...

Faith and reason aren’t in competition

I met a man who did not believe in anything until he saw it. That guy was (and hopefully still is) a businessman. He did not believe in marketing because no one could answer him when he asked, "Where is profit here?" Sales was the only thing that made sense to him. The rest were despicable smartly engineered excuses.

In the same sense, I see people who disregard faith because it is not a matter of consequence. Then you can also see that they are missing out on the most powerful gift God can ever give to man.

There is no competition between reason and faith, but rather harmony, a senior Catholic leader has said.

Delivering the annual Cardinal John Henry Newman Lecture in Oxford, Cardinal Peter Turkson [pictured] said that the truth of faith and the truth of reason were not opposed to one another.

Cardinal Turkson, president of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, challenged the idea that another reality could not exist simply because it could not be fully understood by human reason. More...

Gospel Today - This is how you are to pray: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name

This is how you are to pray: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Mt 6:9-10 NAB

June 16, 2011 - Thursday of the Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time

• 1st Reading -- 2 Corinthians 11:1-11
• Responsorial -- Psalms 111:1b-2, 3-4, 7-8
  R. Your works, O Lord, are justice and truth
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 6:7-15

In US, Competing conferences show division among Catholics

What does it mean to be Catholic in the 21st century? Interesting question, isn't it? That's putting it mildly. It is a very serious question to the Catholic laity in the US who are passionate about keeping Catholic faithfuls in the halls of the Church. To lose 1 out of 3 Catholics in the US is very painful indeed.

Does the solution lie in changing the sacred traditions of the Church? If not (and clearly so), where do we go?

I have this feeling that the spirit of Vatican II has not yet really trickled down in the West. The "two competing visions" are a symptom of that. May the Holy Spirit guide the Catholic laity who, like teens, are still struggling with their new roles in the Church as espoused in Vatican II.

DETROIT — Two competing visions of the Catholic Church's future will play out in metro Detroit this weekend with separate conferences — one liberal, the other conservative — that are expected to draw thousands.

The liberal one, sponsored by the American Catholic Council, is set to be one of the biggest gatherings of left-leaning Catholics in years, a three-day event that will attract high-profile critics of the church and about 2,000 Catholics from around the world to Detroit.

At the same time, the Archdiocese of Detroit is supporting a more conservative conference in Livonia, which will feature speakers who will critique the American Catholic Council's vision and explain the church's views. More...

Gospel Today - Take care not to perform righteous deeds that people may see them

Take care not to perform righteous deeds in order that people may see them; otherwise, you will have no recompense from your heavenly Father. Mt 6:1 NAB

June 15, 2011 - Wednesday of the Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time

• 1st Reading -- 2 Corinthians 9:6-11
• Responsorial -- Psalms 112:1bc-2, 3-4, 9
  R. Blessed the man who fears the Lord.
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18

Rediscovering Pentecost - the "forgotten" feast

There are those who say that the Pentecost is a "forgotten" feast. In a large sense, they are right. When we say the sign of the cross, we put our fingers on our two shoulders when we way "Holy Spirit." But does Catholic culture in general seek for the power and enlightenment of the Holy Spirit?

Well, here's the good news: the Holy Spirit continues to work powerfully through those who seek its light and accepts it. See the YouTube below as an example of a myriad of others.

Kristina Cooper writes at ICN: Pentecost is often the forgotten feast. I sometimes wonder if the reason that it is not celebrated at the same depth as Christmas and Easter is because we haven’t really understood its importance and that Jesus came not just to save us from our sins but also to empower us with His Holy Spirit. The book of Acts too often is seen as past history, rather than something that is still being written by us today. More...

The Holy Spirit: Giver of Truth and Grace

F.K Bartels writes at Catholic Online: The experience of Pentecost is not lost to the past, but rather is a reality which continues to live on in the Church, for Christ does not revoke what he has promised: "I am with you always" (Matt. 28:20). On the day of Pentecost, Christ's Passover is fulfilled in the outpouring of the Holy Spirit (CCC 731), a gift of Love which is unceasing. The question remains: do we thirst for the Spirit's love with such ardent desire so as to abandon self and devoutly embrace the movements which he instills within our hearts? More...

YouTube: Catholic Charismatic Renewal and the Story of Mission

Gospel Today - Love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you

But I say to you, love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your heavenly Father. Mt 5:44-45a NAB

June 14, 2011 - Tuesday of the Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time

• 1st Reading -- 2 Corinthians 8:1-9
• Responsorial -- Psalms 146:2, 5-6ab, 6c- 7, 8-9a
  R. Praise the Lord, my soul!
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 5:43-48

Respect the Holy Spirit in church life, theologian says

Many Christians pray as a routine, a chore. A few do it to sincerely reach out to God with their hearts, each and everyday, like a child constantly yearning for the voice of his parents. Let us pray for the power of the Holy Spirit, like a child. It is what will keep us grounded in the middle of persecutions -- from within -- that is rocking the Church today.

SAN JOSE, Calif. -- Maureen A. Tilley [pictured], professor of theology at Fordham University, opened the 66th annual gathering of The Catholic Theological Society of America here June 9, asking a straightforward question: “What does it mean to be Holy?”

Tilley asked: “Is the church less able to deal with bishops and theologians than with schismatics? Do the acts of bishops and theologians pose more of a threat to the unity, holiness and catholicity of the church than the Priestly Fraternity or the CPA?”

Quoting Pope Benedict XVI, the answer is ‘yes,’ said Tilley. He says that “[T]oday we are seeing it in a really terrifying way: that the greatest persecution of the Church comes not from her enemies without, but arises from sin within the Church.”

Tilley finished by saying that there needs to be a recovery of respect, not merely lip service, for the role of the Holy Spirit in engendering unity and holiness in the church.  More...

Gospel Today - Turn the other cheek as well

But I say to you, offer no resistance to one who is evil. When someone strikes you on (your) right cheek, turn the other one to him as well. Mt 5:39 NAB

June 13, 2011 - Memorial of Saint Anthony of Padua, priest and doctor of the Church

• 1st Reading -- 2 Corinthians 6:1-10
• Responsorial -- Psalms 98:1, 2b, 3ab, 3cd-4
  R. The Lord has made known his salvation
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 5:38-42

In Nepal, Lay group is growing fast

To see families from every nation growing in closer union with the LORD can only be the work of the Holy Spirit. The whole effort of evangelizing couples is a work of love -- love for God, and love for our neighbors. Love is Catholic or universal. It defies color and race and reaches out straight to one's heart.

Nepalese Couples for Christ make their presence felt

Enthusiasm among members of Couples for Christ (CFC), whose aim is to strengthen Christian values and family life, is helping the lay-movement grow in Nepal.

Over a dozen people, all parishioners of Assumption church in Kathmandu, gave talks and led prayer and discussion sessions at the weekend at the church hall to complete Nepal’s ninth Christian Life Program - a requirement for membership of the group.

“We thought it was important to say ‘yes’ and we managed to lead it with the help of others for all three days,” said Anuradha Pradhan, a school teacher.

Father Jomon James, the new priest at St.Ignatius Church in Kathmandu’s Baniyatar parish, said: “I am eagerly waiting for CFC to come here as we need to strengthen faith formation among a growing number of Tamang tribal couples and families.” More...

Gospel Reflection -- Experiencing the Pentecost in the Present Age

Praises be to God, we celebrate the Pentecost today. The Pentecost is the birth of the Catholic Church. Today, never at any time in history does the work of the holy Spirit manifest itself as described in scripture -- in a worldwide scale.

Then there appeared to them tongues as of fire, which parted and came to rest on each one of them (Acts 2:3)
Photo: Pentecost by Jean II Restout (1732) as featured in Wikipedia

The Church delivers one message in different tongues, spoken by men who, just a while ago, have been terrified men. This is happening in all corners of the world ... every single day.

(Jesus) said to them again, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you." And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, "Receive the holy Spirit. Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are retained." John 20:21-23 NAB

The Pentecost is a solemn reminder for every Christian that the Holy Spirit is with us, today. The power that the Holy Spirit has given the disciples is the same Holy Spirit that gives life to the Church today, and gives power and light to those who ask for it.

Let me elaborate...

Gospel Today - "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you."

(Jesus) said to them again, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you." And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, "Receive the holy Spirit. Jn 20:21-22 NAB

June 12, 2011 - Pentecost Sunday

• 1st Reading -- Acts 2:1-11
• Responsorial -- Psalms Ps 104:1, 24, 29-30, 31, 34
  R. Lord, send out your Spirit, and renew the face of the earth.
• 2nd Reading -- 1 Corinthians 12:3b-7, 12-13
• Gospel Today -- John 20:19-23

In Croatia, Pope Reaffirms Traditional Values

Just when everyone thinks that religion has lost its place in the modern world, Pope Benedict XVI emphasizes that loss of conscience can lead to collapse. Indeed, we don't need to look far to see that. Think of Enron. Think of the sub-prime crisis. Weren't these caused by lack of conscience? Let the day never come when we would hear the Pope say, "I told you so..."

Edward Pentin of newsmax.com writes: In words primarily directed toward Europe but which could just as easily have been a veiled warning to the Obama administration, Pope Benedict XVI issued a robust defense of freedom of conscience during his trip to Croatia last weekend.

The Pope stressed that the “quality of social and civil life and the quality of democracy depend in large measure” on conscience. He warned: “If, in keeping with the prevailing modern idea, conscience is reduced to the subjective field to which religion and morality have been banished, then the crisis of the West has no remedy, and Europe is destined to collapse in on itself.” More...

"In today's Europe," the pope said, "the nations with solid Christian traditions have a special responsibility to defend and promote the role of the family based on marriage, which remains a decisive force in education and in social life." More...

Gospel Today - There are also many other things that Jesus did

There are also many other things that Jesus did, but if these were to be described individually, I do not think the whole world would contain the books that would be written. John 21:25 NAB

June 11, 2011 - Memorial of Saint Barnabas, Apostle

• 1st Reading -- Acts 11:21b-26; 12:1-3
• Responsorial -- Psalms 98:1, 2-3ab, 3cd-4, 5-6
  R. The Lord has revealed to the nations his saving power.
• Gospel Today -- John 21:20-25

In US, Md. Episcopal parish to join Catholic Church through ordinariate

This is a very heart-warming development. The decision to join the Catholic Church is partly due to the pastor's search for a central teaching authority, who decides on doctrinal issues with finality and to whom all bishops heed. We have the magisterium as our central teaching authority. They are why the Catholic Church teaches the same thing anywhere in the world.

Bladensburg, Md., Jun 8, 2011 / 06:06 am (CNA/EWTN News).- The small congregation of St. Luke’s Episcopal parish in Bladensburg, Maryland will join the Catholic Church through the Anglican ordinariate structure created by Pope Benedict XVI.

“We welcome the St. Luke community warmly into our family of faith,” Cardinal Donald W. Wuerl [pictured] of Washington said June 6. “The proposed ordinariate provides a path to unity, one that recognizes our shared beliefs on matters of faith while also recognizing and respecting the liturgical heritage of the Anglican Church.” More...

Gospel Today - "Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?"

Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?" He said to him, "Yes, Lord, you know that I love you." He said to him, "Feed my lambs." John 21:15 NAB

June 10, 2011 - Friday of the Seventh Week of Easter

• 1st Reading -- Acts 25:13b-21
• Responsorial -- Psalms 103:1-2, 11-12, 19-20ab R. The Lord has established his throne in heaven.
• Gospel Today -- Jn 21:15-19

In Myanmar, Catholic Action workshop inspires laity

This is certainly a very positive development in Southeast Asia. May the Holy Spirit shine its light to all prime movers of the Catholic Church in Myanmar, to let Jesus Christ into their homes and to let the gospel influence for the better the workings of its society.

MYANMAR’S first Catholic Action workshop aims to inspire the country’s laypeople to communicate better with bishops and to work for peace and justice in the world, says Bishop Domenico Sigalini, president of the Episcopal Commission of the Laity.

Bishop Sigalini, who is also the general ecclesiastical assistant of Italian Catholic Action, said “I am here to learn of the experiences of laypeople and to help young people so that they may be able to open themselves up to the universal Church and let the world know more about the Myanmar Church.” More...

Gospel Today - "I pray … also for those who will believe in me through their word."

I pray not only for them, but also for those who will believe in me through their word. John 17:20 NAB

June 9, 2011 - Thursday of the Seventh Week of Easter

• 1st Reading -- Acts 22:30; 23:6-11
• Responsorial -- Psalms 16:1-2a and 5, 7-8, 9-10, 11
  R. Keep me safe, O God; you are my hope.
• Gospel Today -- John 17:20-26

In Philippines, Bishops urge bloggers to fight RH bill

Earlier the Vatican called for bloggers to join the Church in discussing the gospel and Church issues in the internet. This move in the Philippines to involve Catholic bloggers in the fight is a strategic move. This is what I think ... even if they mess up the laws in Congress, winning the hearts and minds of the faithfuls on the pro-life issues is where real change in the name of Jesus can begin for many. The new battle ground is the internet.

AFTER setting up a “pro-life” website, Filipino Catholic bishops are now eyeing bloggers as their latest online weapon against the controversial reproductive health (RH) bill.

Officials of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) met with bloggers to convince them to use faith-based blogging in spreading Catholicism.

“Let’s crusade for new media founded on solid grounds,” Monsignor Pedro Quitorio, CBCP media director, told bloggers during a meeting. More...

Gospel Today - "As you sent me into the world, so I sent them into the world."

Consecrate them in the truth. Your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, so I sent them into the world. John 17:17-18 NAB

June 8, 2011 - Wednesday of the Seventh Week of Easter

• 1st Reading -- Acts 20:28-38
• Responsorial -- Psalms 68:29-30, 33-35a, 35bc-36ab
  R. Sing to God, O kingdoms of the earth.
• Gospel Today -- John 17:11b-19

Pope says Gregorian chant helps church express its universal identity

The Gregorian chant seemingly offers something that contemporary music can't -- a deep communion with the Catholic identity throughout the centuries. Singing more fast beat music has its own merits in community gatherings. But Gregorian chants sung inside Churches, especially during the Holy Mass, is really something else.

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- In giving priority to Gregorian chant and to classical liturgical music, the Catholic Church is not trying to limit anyone's creativity but is showcasing a tradition of beautiful prayer, Pope Benedict XVI wrote.

He said music used at Mass must convey a "sense of prayer, dignity and beauty," should help the faithful enter into prayer -- including through use of music that reflects their culture -- and should keep alive the tradition of Gregorian chant and polyphony. More...

This is the Latin chant "Salve Regina" (or Hail, Holy Queen, which is a common Catholic prayer) performed by the monks of the Abbey of Notre Dame.

Gospel Today - "And now I will no longer be in the world, but they are in the world."

And now I will no longer be in the world, but they are in the world, while I am coming to you. John 16:11a NAB

June 7, 2011 - Tuesday of the Seventh Week of Easter

• 1st Reading -- Acts 20:17-27
• Responsorial -- Psalms 68:10-11, 20-21 R. Sing to God, O kingdoms of the earth.
• Gospel Today -- John 17:1-11a

The Church Crucified: A Reflection About the Sexual Abuses Committed by Some Priests

That some priests have morally erred is a fact well known to many Catholics for centuries. Most have tolerated that phenomenon as fact of 'local' life. In today's age and technology, the murmurs of those who have been victims and those who could not tolerate it can now be quickly heard at the opposite ends of the earth. Something has to change, from within and from without.

Photo: 'St Peter's Square' by Michal Osmenda 

To say that the number of these abusive priests are low, although true, may only paint a picture of a clergy that is, by and large, faithful to their vocation as ministers of Christ and stewards of the Church that Christ is building through Peter and his successors, the rock.

But saying that does not fully address the real issue that is hounding the Church today, especially in the west.

The issue is justice for the victims.

Gospel Today - "I am not alone, because the Father is with me."

Behold, the hour is coming and has arrived when each of you will be scattered to his own home and you will leave me alone. But I am not alone, because the Father is with me. John 16:32 NAB

June 6, 2011 - Monday of the Seventh Week of Easter

• 1st Reading -- Acts 19:1-8
• Responsorial -- Psalms 68:2-3ab, 4-5acd, 6-7ab
  R. Sing to God, O kingdoms of the earth.
• Gospel Today -- Jn 16:29-33

In US, Franciscan University of Steubenville honors Father Michael Scanlan

Those who know the story of Scott and Kimberly Hahn, homecomers to the Catholic Church from their Presbyterian background, would know that Steubenville is very much a part of their story, particularly the Franciscan University. Here we recognize the man whom the university recognizes as its hero, without whom the Franciscan University wouldn't have been how we know it today and the stories of people like the Hahn's would have been different.

Father Michael Scanlan looks back on a career that included an early friendship with Avery Dulles, 42 years at Franciscan University and leading the charismatic renewal.

STEUBENVILLE, Ohio — Father Michael Scanlan’s name has become so closely linked to Steubenville, Ohio, that it’s a bit surprising to learn that he grew up in midtown Manhattan.

The Third Order Regular Franciscan has spent 42 of his 47 years as a priest at Franciscan University of Steubenville and played a large part in bringing the college back from near death.

During commencement exercises on May 13-14, Father Scanlan was given the title president emeritus of Franciscan University. More...

Watch the awarding ceremony here ...

Gospel Reflection - The Ascension and the Great Commission

The Ascension is when Christ gave the disciples their evangelical mission. It is a mission that continues all the way up to this day, and even in a more significant way --- we are called to make disciples of all nations. The word "nations" is exactly the word that has been preserved in scripture in the last 2000 years.

The Ascension by Andrea Mantegna (1431-1506), Uffizi Gallery, Florence

Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age . Matthew 28:19-20 NAB

When I first read Matthew 28:19, it struck me as odd why the Lord chose the word "nations" instead of "people." Isn't the task of evangelizing nations a bit too gargantuan a mission? Well, gargantuan as it may be, that's exactly where the Catholic Church is headed today ... and the role of the laity is more gargantuan than most of lay members think.

Let me illustrate ...

Gospel Today - I will no longer be in the world, but they are in the world.

And now I will no longer be in the world, but they are in the world, while I am coming to you. John 17:11a NAB

June 5, 2011 - Seventh Sunday of Easter

• 1st Reading -- Acts 1:12-14
• Responsorial -- Psalms 27:1, 4, 7-8
  R. I believe that I shall see the good things of the Lord in the land of the living
• 2nd Reading -- 1 Pt 4:13-16
• Gospel Today -- John 17:1-11a

1st Reading -- Acts 1:12-14 NAB

12 Then they returned to Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is near Jerusalem, a sabbath day's journey away. 13 When they entered the city they went to the upper room where they were staying, Peter and John and James and Andrew, Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew, James son of Alphaeus, Simon the Zealot, and Judas son of James. 14 All these devoted themselves with one accord to prayer, together with some women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and his brothers.

In Vatican, Pope Reminds us that Mary is the Great Believer

Mary should really be called the first Christian, shouldn't she? Salvation started with her famous words of humble obedience, "Let it be done to me according to they word." Christ's first miracle was to her account. As the mother of Christ she endured the sight of the suffering of her own son all the way through crucifixion. It was only but fitting that she enjoyed the glory of the resurrection as well, which was a promise Jesus Christ made to all those who believed.

VATICAN CITY, 28 MAY 2011 (VIS) - This afternoon in the Vatican, Benedict XVI received members of the "Mariä Verkündigung" Marian Congregation of Men of Regensburg, Germany. They had come to the Vatican to celebrate with the Pope the 70th anniversary of his induction in that congregation in the Archbishopric Seminary of St. Michael of Traunstein, Germany.

"Mary is the great believer. She has taken up Abraham's mission of belief and made Abraham's faith into concrete faith in Jesus Christ,  thus showing us all the way of faith, the courage to entrust ourselves to the God who puts Himself in our hands, the joy of being His witnesses. Then she shows us the determination to remain fast when all others have fled, the courage to remain at the Lord's side when he seems lost and thus to bear the witness that led to His Passion." More...

Gospel Today - Ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be complete

Until now you have not asked anything in my name; ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be complete. John 16:24 NAB

June 4, 2011 - Saturday of the Sixth Week of Easter

• 1st Reading -- Acts 18:23-28
• Responsorial -- Psalms 47:2-3, 8-9, 10
  R. God is king of all the earth
• Gospel Today -- John 16:23b-28

1st Reading -- Acts 18:23-28 NAB

23 After staying there some time, he left and traveled in orderly sequence through the Galatian country and Phrygia, bringing strength to all the disciples. 24 A Jew named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, an eloquent speaker, arrived in Ephesus. He was an authority on the scriptures. 25 He had been instructed in the Way of the Lord and, with ardent spirit, spoke and taught accurately about Jesus, although he knew only the baptism of John. 26 He began to speak boldly in the synagogue; but when Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him aside and explained to him the Way (of God) more accurately. 27 And when he wanted to cross to Achaia, the brothers encouraged him and wrote to the disciples there to welcome him. After his arrival he gave great assistance to those who had come to believe through grace. 28 He vigorously refuted the Jews in public, establishing from the scriptures that the Messiah is Jesus.

In Vatican, Pope Benedict Received Pontifical Council for Promoting New Evangelization

The gospel is a continuing message, which has not changed through centuries starting from the West. In a more hip-hop society we're gravitating towards, we wish that message has changed to affirm our present values and lifestyle. Our human tendency is to trivialize that which is holy, and to hold as sacred that which is trivial. Well, that too has not changed since the beginning of the human race, didn't it?

VATICAN CITY, 30 MAY 2011 (VIS) - This afternoon the Holy Father received participants in the plenary of the Pontifical Council for Promoting New Evangelization, instituted in October of 2010, along with its president, Archbishop Salvatore Fisichella.

"The crisis we are living through", he stated, "carries with it signs of the exclusion of God from people's lives, a general indifference to the Christian faith, and even the intention of marginalizing it from public life. ... Moreover, the phenomenon of people who wish to belong to the Church but who are strongly determined by a vision of life that is opposed to the faith is often seen." More...

There is Couples for Christ and there is 'Couples for Christ'

I'm calling to life an old ghost. Maybe this is what I'm about to do here. But then maybe not. Maybe I'm seeing a ghost and just have to deal with it. I believe that by recognizing truth and scraping away the not-so-true that hound members of Couples for Christ around the world up to this day, everyone gets even more empowered by the Holy Spirit, the bearer of truth.

Click on the photo to enlarge. Check also this link:
CFC Europe Marks Anniversary

There is a 2010 news report at abs-cbnnews.com about the "15th Year Anniversary" of CFCFFL in Europe. CFCFFL started only in 2007, how can this be? I have alerted the site about my observation. I do not know if they are posting my comment. Nonetheless, I am writing about it here.

Gospel Today - Whatever you ask the Father in my name he will give you.

On that day you will not question me about anything. Amen, amen, I say to you, whatever you ask the Father in my name he will give you. John 16:23 NAB

June 3, 2011 - Memorial of Saint Charles Lwanga and his companions, martyrs

• 1st Reading -- Acts 18:9-18
• Responsorial -- Psalms 47:2-3, 4-5, 6-7
  R. God is king of all the earth
• Gospel Today -- John 16:20-23

1st Reading -- Acts 18:9-18 NAB

9 One night in a vision the Lord said to Paul, "Do not be afraid. Go on speaking, and do not be silent, 10 for I am with you. No one will attack and harm you, for I have many people in this city." 11 He settled there for a year and a half and taught the word of God among them. 12 But when Gallio was proconsul of Achaia, the Jews rose up together against Paul and brought him to the tribunal, 13 saying, "This man is inducing people to worship God contrary to the law." 14 When Paul was about to reply, Gallio spoke to the Jews, "If it were a matter of some crime or malicious fraud, I should with reason hear the complaint of you Jews; 15 but since it is a question of arguments over doctrine and titles and your own law, see to it yourselves. I do not wish to be a judge of such matters." 16 And he drove them away from the tribunal. 17 They all seized Sosthenes, the synagogue official, and beat him in full view of the tribunal. But none of this was of concern to Gallio. 18 Paul remained for quite some time, and after saying farewell to the brothers he sailed for Syria, together with Priscilla and Aquila. At Cenchreae he had his hair cut because he had taken a vow.

Michel Roy, elected Secretary General of Caritas Internationalis

Recent events in the Caritas is a reminder to all Catholic organizations to be mindful of their Catholic identity. Vatican, from time to time, chastises organizations who seem to veer away. It has even shut down a monastery, which has completely lost its way. My own community was chastised by the Vatican as well. A priest has put it nicely and truthfully when he said, "He whom God chastises is he who matters to Him the most." Indeed, don't we chastise our own children? Why do we do so? It's because we love them. In the case of the Church, it's because of the Covenant.

Caritas Internationalis has approved Michel Roy as its new secretary general for the next four years. Caritas representatives chose Roy with a majority of votes during the General Assembly on Thursday 26 May. Roy is currently international lobbying and advocacy director for Secours Catholique (Caritas France). He will follow Lesley-Anne Knight who was Caritas Internationalis secretary general from 2007-2011.

Speaking to Vatican Radio immediately after the election, Roy praised the work of his predecessor: “I am first of all grateful to the members of the confederation who elected me, to succeed Lesley Ann Knight in this very important work that Caritas network is doing in helping to change the life of the poor at grass-roots level as well as the global level and my thoughts are going to the small Caritas organisations and to the new ones, to those that are facing problems, who will be the priority of our work so that the network is strong everywhere and able to carry out its mission” More...

Gospel Today - Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations

Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy Spirit. Mt 28:19 NAB

June 2, 2011 - Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord

• 1st Reading -- Acts 1:1-11
• Responsorial -- Psalms 47:2-3, 6-7, 8-9
  R. God mounts his throne to shouts of joy: a blare of trumpets for the Lord
• 2nd Reading -- Eph 1:17-23
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 28:16-20

1st Reading -- Acts 1:1-11 NAB

1 In the first book, Theophilus, I dealt with all that Jesus did and taught 2 until the day he was taken up, after giving instructions through the holy Spirit to the apostles whom he had chosen. 3 He presented himself alive to them by many proofs after he had suffered, appearing to them during forty days and speaking about the kingdom of God. 4 While meeting with them, he enjoined them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for "the promise of the Father about which you have heard me speak; 5 for John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the holy Spirit." 6 When they had gathered together they asked him, "Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?" 7

In US, Meet the man behind the many letters

Come to think of it, maybe we need more priests like Father Richard Partika. He is an ardent believer of the faith, never condescending. In today's age and technology, it is one thing for the Church to adopt to new ways of doing things. But to change its identity is another. We need people like Father Partika to draw the line.

Father Richard Partika has been writing monthly letters to the editor for decades, always defending his Catholic faith and his principles.

Chuck Frederick of Duluth News Tribune writes: For half a century, Father Richard Partika — “Father Dick,” to his friends — has been writing, and sometimes ranting, to the paper, making his a household name across the Northland and leaving him with a reputation as a fiery, never-back-down individual.

Or as something less polite: “Partika is one of the most dangerous people in this town,” an angry newspaper reader once wrote in an e-mail that found its way back to Partika.

So just who is he, the man behind all those letters? More...

Gospel Today - The Spirit of truth will guide you to all truth

But when he comes, the Spirit of truth, he will guide you to all truth. He will not speak on his own, but he will speak what he hears, and will declare to you the things that are coming. John16:13 NAB

June 1, 2011 - Memorial of Saint Justin, martyr

• 1st Reading -- Acts 17:15, 22—18:1
• Responsorial -- Psalms 148:1-2, 11-12, 13, 14
  R. Heaven and earth are full of your glory
• Gospel Today -- John 16:12-15

1st Reading -- Acts 17:15, 22—18:1 NAB

'17:15 After Paul's escorts had taken him to Athens, they came away with instructions for Silas and Timothy to join him as soon as possible. 22 Then Paul stood up at the Areopagus and said: "You Athenians, I see that in every respect you are very religious. 23 For as I walked around looking carefully at your shrines, I even discovered an altar inscribed, 'To an Unknown God.' What therefore you unknowingly worship, I proclaim to you. 24 The God who made the world and all that is in it, the Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in sanctuaries made by human hands, 25 nor is he served by human hands because he needs anything. Rather it is he who gives to everyone life and breath and everything. 26 He made from one the whole human race to dwell on the entire surface of the earth, and he fixed the ordered seasons and the boundaries of their regions, 27 so that people might seek God, even perhaps grope for him and find him, though indeed he is not far from any one of us.

In US, Catholic Church questions Christian principals of Ryan budget plan

Paul Davis Ryan, Jr. is a Roman Catholic member of the US Congress. He is the Chairman of the House Budget Committee. His professional background includes being a marketing consultant and economic analyst. Indeed, in the face of an economy that needs to be revitalized on one hand, and the poor among the society on the other, what would Jesus do?

May 28, 2011 - The Paul Ryan [pictured] conservative wing of the Republican Party is heavily influenced by the Christian right, particularly with their intolerant views on abortion. But while the Catholic Church supports the right to life, they do not support the GOP assault on the poor and vulnerable. Jesus compelled His followers to care for the needy with His teachings in the Holy Bible.

Just about everything in the Ryan budget plan goes against Christian principals. The well known phase, ‘What would Jesus do?' would not likely include cutting off medical care for the disabled, elderly, and poor, while giving tax breaks to the wealthiest Americans. But that is exactly what Ryan's plan is designed to achieve. More...