The Struggle of the Age is Between Anarchic Freedom and Authentic Freedom

What you'll see below is an excerpt of a very enlightening article that every philosophical person should read. The "isms" prior to World War II were "isms" to combat poverty of nations. Today, communism remains in some countries, and new "isms" have emerged in the west.
        The most formidable enemy these days is the Dictatorship of Relativism. I believe it is every Catholic's duty to understand what this dictatorship is. It is a faceless dictatorship, yet it is directly sabataging the faith and morals of people, Catholic faithfuls included.

Deacon Keith Fournier writes at Catholic Online: When freedom is authentic in its exercise it leads men, women and Nations to true liberation because it leads them to fulfill their very reason for existence. The contemporary neo-pagan and post modernist age has become intoxicated on the wine of a false notion of freedom as a raw power over others who are weaker. Then, in an act of sophistry and newspeak, the exercise of this raw power is hidden behind an illusory claim of a "right" to do whatever one wills, including taking their lives and calling it a "choice".

On May 8, 2005 Pope Benedict opined concerning legal abortion and creeping euthanasia: "The freedom to kill is not true freedom, but a tyranny that reduces the human being to slavery." By calling what is always wrong a "right", contemporary men and women are becoming bound by the chains of their own self delusion, materialism and nihilism. They are imprisoned by the lie of what Pope Benedict called "anarchic freedom." Read more...

Gospel Reflection - Prosperity is a sacred duty of the Catholic laity

I grew up with the misguided idea that it was obscene for a Catholic to be ultra-rich. The desire for lots of money was almost always suppressed by thoughts about how easier it was for the camel to pass through the eye of the needle than for a rich man to enter the Kingdom of Heaven (Matthew 19:24). I grew up with a disempowering understanding of this verse!

The people seek Christ to make Him a King (John 6:15), from The Life of Jesus Christ by J.J.Tissot, 1899

They all ate and were satisfied, and they picked up the fragments left over -- twelve wicker baskets full. Matthew 14:20 NAB

In the gospel today, Jesus Christ fed 5,000 men, not counting children. Only the ultra-rich with the heart for God's people could do such feat today, couldn't they? Let me explain.

Gospel Today - They all ate and were satisfied

Then he said, "Bring them here to me," and he ordered the crowds to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to heaven, he said the blessing, broke the loaves, and gave them to the disciples, who in turn gave them to the crowds. They all ate and were satisfied, and they picked up the fragments left over --twelve wicker baskets full. Matthew 14:18-20 NAB

July 31, 2011 - Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

• 1st Reading -- Isaiah 55:1-3
• Responsorial -- Psalm 145:8-9, 15-16, 17-18
  R. The hand of the Lord feeds us; he answers all our needs
• 2nd Reading -- Romans 8:35, 37-39
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 14:13-21

READ MORE: Gospel Reflection - Prosperity is a sacred duty of the Catholic Laity

Gospel Today - He has been raised from the dead

At that time Herod the tetrarch heard of the reputation of Jesus and said to his servants, "This man is John the Baptist. He has been raised from the dead; that is why mighty powers are at work in him." Matthew 14:1-2 NAB

July 30, 2011 - Saturday of the Seventeenth Week in Ordinary Time

• 1st Reading -- Leviticus 25:1, 8-17
• Responsorial -- Psalm 67:2-3, 5, 7-8
  R. O God, let all the nations praise you!
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 14:1-12

Gospel Today - Whoever believes in me, even if he dies, will live

Jesus told her, "I am the resurrection and the life; whoever believes in me, even if he dies, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?" She said to him, "Yes, Lord. I have come to believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, the one who is coming into the world." John 11:25-27 NAB

July 29, 2011 - Memorial of Saint Martha

• 1st Reading -- Leviticus 23:1, 4-11, 15-16, 27, 34b-37
• Responsorial -- Psalm 81:3-4, 5-6, 10-11ab
  R. Sing with joy to God our help
• Gospel Today -- John 11:19-27

Gospel Today - The angels will go out and separate the wicked from the righteous

Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net thrown into the sea, which collects fish of every kind. When it is full they haul it ashore and sit down to put what is good into buckets. What is bad they throw away. Thus it will be at the end of the age. The angels will go out and separate the wicked from the righteous. Matthew 13:47-49 NAB

July 28, 2011 - Thursday of the Seventeenth Week in Ordinary Time

• 1st Reading -- Exodus 40:16-21, 34-38
• Responsorial -- Psalm 84:3, 4, 5-6a and 8a, 11
  R. How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord, mighty God!
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 13:47-53

How should the Catholic laity respond to issues confronting the clergy?

Large clusters of the Catholic laity today are like sheep without a shepherd. The devil has done a splendid job of striking the leaders -- priests and bishops involved in sex abuse cases and bishops cavorting with atheist governments or corrupt leaders.

You want to be "IN" these days? Join the fray and attack the Vatican. You know in your heart however that you can do better than that. Photo credit: St Peter Basilica - Vatican by the Italian voice

There now seems to be an "in" thing called Vatican-bashing. Someone in my circle once said, "You want to be 'in'? Tell people you're spiritual and not religious." That was his reaction to the many Catholics who now begin to parrot the "born again" Christians who say that clause everywhere they go, even in offices and social gatherings.

Today, it appears that the same friend would now say, "You want to be 'in'? Attack the Vatican." If you go for that trendy route, then I dare say you do not have the balls to be a Catholic. Let me explain.

Gospel Today - The kingdom of heaven is like a merchant searching for fine pearls

Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant searching for fine pearls. When he finds a pearl of great price, he goes and sells all that he has and buys it. Matthew 13:45-46 NAB

July 27, 2011 - Wednesday of the Seventeenth Week in Ordinary Time

• 1st Reading -- Exodus 34:29-35
  
• Responsorial -- Psalm 99:5, 6, 7, 9
  R. Holy is the Lord our God
  
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 13:44-46

Read more: Gospel Reflection - The head of the household brings from his storeroom both the new and the old

China: Vatican threats unreasonable, rude

You don't defy the Pope and call yourself a Catholic. It's as simple as that. If China wants to create its own Church, even if it has to resemble the Catholic Church in every way, it can. But it should not call itself Catholic. Calling it Church of China is not a bad idea.
       Catholicism in China could be traced all the way to the 8th century (Tang Dynasty), although the permanent mission started in 1601. Communism in China started in 1921 and ruled mainland China 20 years later. This was when it defeated its rival Kuomintang who fled to Taiwan. Communist China treated Taiwan as a renegade province. The Holy See recognized Taiwan as a country. Go figure.
       Faith at the fingertips of politics? We already know that doesn't work.

Father Joseph Huang Bingzhang of Shantou was ordained a bishop without papal approval on July 14
(Photo & caption from cathnewsphil.com)

THE Beijing government made its first official response this afternoon to the Vatican’s excommunication of two Chinese bishops ordained in recent months without papal mandate.

The state-run Xinhua News Agency published a statement by the State Administration for Religious Affairs (SARA), saying it is “extremely unreasonable and rude” that the Vatican threatened the two new bishops with “so-called excommunication.” Read more...

Gospel Today - Whoever has ears ought to hear

The Son of Man will send his angels, and they will collect out of his kingdom all who cause others to sin and all evildoers. They will throw them into the fiery furnace, where there will be wailing and grinding of teeth. Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Whoever has ears ought to hear. Matthew 13:41-43 NAB

July 26, 2011 - Memorial of Saint Joachim and Saint Anne, parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary

• 1st Reading -- Exodus 33:7-11; 34:5b-9, 28
• Responsorial -- Psalm 103:6-7, 8-9, 10-11, 12-13
  R. The Lord is kind and merciful
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 13:36-43

In Ireland, paper reports Vatican did not try to obstruct abuse inquiry

I am sure it isn't just me, but I have observed non-Catholic articles in the web that seeks to take advantage of the situation in Ireland to pursue their anti-Catholic agenda. You could smell their intention by reading between the lines. There's no sense giving these religious opportunists the attention they deserve other than saying what I have already said.
       With that as background, it is heart-warming to see Irish media people who see the situation much more objectively than Enda Kenny. It wouldn't hurt for Kenny to listen to everyone. Indeed it isn't easy to be crushed between your duties to your constituents and your affection to Catholic Church, which has played a major role in Irish society.

No one could doubt Enda Kenny’s sincerity. However, had he read the Cloyne report in full, it is doubtful that he could have reached the conclusion that the Vatican was in the business of obstructing a sovereign state.

The Cloyne report then goes on, in chapter four, to outline in meticulous detail subsequent Vatican documents in 2001 and 2010, which make it clear that the church is to co-operate with civil authorities, including this quote from the Guide to Understanding Basic CDF [Congregation on the Doctrine of the Faith] Procedures concerning Sexual Abuse Allegations: “Civil law concerning reporting of crimes to the appropriate authorities should always be followed.” Read more...

The Irish government vs. the Vatican: opinion roundup

Catholic Culture reports: And Kevin Myers, also in the Irish Independent criticizes the irate speech by Taoiseach Enda Kenny, saying that it sounded “like a particularly enraged caller to a phone-in radio programme.” Such a speech, shedding heat rather than light, adds little to the public understanding of the problem, Myers argues.  Read more...

Gospel Today - The Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve

Whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave. Just so, the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many." Matthew 20:27-28 NAB

July 25, 2011 - Feast of Saint James, apostle

• 1st Reading -- 2 Corinthians 4:7-15
• Responsorial -- Psalm 126:1bc-2ab, 2cd-3, 4-5, 6
  R. Those who sow in tears shall reap rejoicing
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 20:20-28

Norway attacks shock, disgust Europe

Sad and disgusting. What else can we say? The challenge today is more than the usual sin-and-retribution cycle. The challenge is to show disenchanted and hateful people the righteous way. Let us pray for the souls of those who perished in this madness. Let us also pray for those who are traveling along the same path as the perpetrator. May they see the light and trade their arms with plowshares, that they may be judged rightly in the end of days.

Photo Credit: 'Candles for Norway' by Lars Christopher Nøttaasen

Geir Moulson of Associated Press reports: BERLIN (AP) — The deadly twin attacks in Norway were greeted with an outpouring of sympathy and disgust across Europe and beyond on Saturday, and generated calls to counter the far-right intolerance that may have motivated the assailant.

A massive bombing Friday in the heart of Oslo was followed by a horrific shooting spree on an island hosting a youth retreat for the prime minister's center-left party. The same man, a Norwegian with reported Christian fundamentalist, anti-Muslim views, was suspected in both attacks.

Pope Benedict XVI said in a condolence message to Norway's King Harald V that he was "profoundly saddened" by the great loss of life caused by the "senseless violence" in the bombing and the following massacre. 

Gospel Reflection - The head of the household brings from his storeroom both the new and the old

That we are a mix of the good and the bad is something we already know. What you don't necessarily know is, who is who? But the most important question of all is, how do you become good and not the bad? The answer lies ultimately on who you are following and what fruits you are producing.

Imagine a pearl that is worth all the national reserves of the western world, and the Holy See is the guardian of such pearl. Would you rethink how you look at the Church? Photo Credit: "love white..." by Vali...

And he replied, "Then every scribe who has been instructed in the kingdom of heaven is like the head of a household who brings from his storeroom both the new and the old." Matthew 13:52 NAB

The gospel today is about the pearl of great price. But in this reflection, let us go beyond the image of the pearl and move forward towards realizing that such pearl is already in your hands, right this very moment.

It shouldn't be hard to dissect what that means for you and me, today, right where you are at this moment. It requires some thinking, but thinking is what we do everyday anyway, right? Let me elaborate.

Gospel Today - The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure buried in a field

"The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure buried in a field, which a person finds and hides again, and out of joy goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant searching for fine pearls. When he finds a pearl of great price, he goes and sells all that he has and buys it. Matthew 13:44-46 NAB

July 24, 2011 - Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

• 1st Reading -- 1 Kings 3:5, 7-12
• Responsorial -- Psalm 119:57, 72, 76-77, 127-128, 129-130
  R. Lord, I love your commands
• 2nd Reading -- Romans 8:28-30
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 13:44-52 or 13:44-46

In an Age of Relativism, the Catholic Church is the Voice of Truth

I used to get confused about what "relativism" means. But a little exposure to the world of business immediately made me realize that while some things are up for grabs, other things are simply not for sale. This realization is most important to the Catholic laity who deal with the act of creating wealth all the time (it is our solemn duty, yes). What's up for grabs in your life? Which are not?

F. K. Bartels of Catholic Online writes: To borrow from Rev. John O'Brien [pictured], the Catholic Church possesses deed and title to the fullness of truth. While that may seem a leap to some, it is simply a conclusion drawn from Scripture, history, and reason. God does not make mistakes. He most certainly would not allow his Son to die on the cross only to have mankind muddle the truth and integrity of his divine revelation in a few short years.

Through apostolic succession and the authority conferred on the Church by God himself, we have mother Church as faithful guardian and transmitter of the truth for all people---in every place and state of life. Read more...

The temptations of a Catholic celebrity

I can count two or three Catholic preachers in the ranks of the clergy and the laity who sound like there are five synoptic gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, as well as the Gospel according to "me." I still appreciate them as Catholics with a heart towards spreading the good news, but now I find myself praying for the Holy Spirit to guide their intentions.

Joe Tremblay of the Catholic News Agency writes: Keep in mind that many saints have been tested by the same temptations as John Corapi and other highly esteemed men who have left the priesthood within the last decade. And one such temptation among high profile Catholic speakers (or even gifted homilists at the local parish) is the constant attention, praise and adulation they receive from their admirers. No doubt, the side effects of being a celebrity in the Catholic world can be just as seductive as they are in Hollywood or in the entertainment industry at large. Read more...

Why the Irish government attacks the Catholic Church

The Church itself does need a rebirth. It has been built and it is being built by Christ himself. It is the faithfuls that need to be reborn in the Church -- whether in Ireland, Europe or the world in general -- through the Holy Spirit. Even as we pray that the crisis of the Church in Ireland would end up well, let us pray for the Holy Spirit to take hold of every cell of our being, whether as individuals or as a community.

Phil Lawler, Director of CatholicCulture.org writes: Indeed the scandal itself is a manifestation of a deeper problem within the Church. A healthy Catholic community would not accept misguided attacks on the Vatican. And a healthy Catholic hierarchy would not include bishops who believe that welfare of predatory priests takes precedence over that of innocent children. Read more...

Gospel Today - Master, did you not sow good seed in your field?

The slaves of the householder came to him and said, 'Master, did you not sow good seed in your field? Where have the weeds come from?' He answered, 'An enemy has done this.' His slaves said to him, 'Do you want us to go and pull them up?' He replied, 'No, if you pull up the weeds you might uproot the wheat along with them. Matthew 13:27-29 NAB

July 23, 2011 - Saturday of the Sixteenth Week in Ordinary Time

• 1st Reading -- Exodus 24:3-8
• Responsorial -- Psalm 50:1b-2, 5-6, 14-15
  R. Offer to God a sacrifice of praise
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 13:24-30

In Australia, Senator wants to end confessional confidentiality

Tribulations is part of the daily life of the Church wherever it goes, whether in China, Ireland, Australia or otherwise. Breaking the seal of confidentiality in the confession box is something that the Church would never do. The authorities in Ireland and Australia can count on that. For all we know, China knows that already and is busy doing something about it too.

Leesha McKenny of The Sydney Morning Herald reports: THE independent senator Nick Xenophon has the secrecy of the Catholic confessional in his sights, calling for mandatory reporting on child abuse to include that disclosed to priests.

The confidentiality of confession was tested in Australia in 1989 when Father Mark McGuigan refused to divulge in court whether he had heard the confession of a woman later convicted of manslaughter. Read more...

What's Behind China's Hard Line Against Catholics?

Phelim Kine's insight below is something that makes most sense to me as to why China is taking a hard line against Catholics. He says something that the Church would never say. But it is something that a student of history can easily glean. From where I sit, it isn't because of the Church at all, but the power of the Holy Spirit himself, working among humanity

Francis X. Rocca of Huffpost Religion reports

VATICAN CITY (RNS) When China's state-run Catholic Church ordained a new bishop for the Diocese of Shantou last Thursday (July 14) without the Vatican's approval, it represented the latest step back from years of progress in a complex relationship.

China's fear that the Arab movements could inspire dissidents on its own soil is evident in what Phelim Kine [pictured], senior Asia researcher at Human Rights Watch in New York, called the "worst spike in repression in China since the aftermath" of the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests.

Since last February, authorities have arrested an unknown number of activists, intellectuals and bloggers, and heavily censored international news.

"The spillover effect of this is touching all sectors of society," Kine said, including the Catholic Church, where underground clergy already have a long history of being imprisoned and tortured. Read More...

Gospel Today - I am going to my Father and your Father

Jesus said to her, "Stop holding on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. But go to my brothers and tell them, 'I am going to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.'" Mary of Magdala went and announced to the disciples, "I have seen the Lord," and what he told her. John 20:17-18 NAB

July 22, 2011 - Memorial of Saint Mary Magdalene

• 1st Reading -- Exodus 20:1-17
• Responsorial -- Psalm 19:8, 9, 10, 11
  R. Lord, you have the words of everlasting life
• Gospel Today -- John 20:1-2, 11-18

Gospel Today - But blessed are your eyes, because they see

"But blessed are your eyes, because they see, and your ears, because they hear. Amen, I say to you, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it. Matthew 13:16-17 NAB

July 21, 2011 - Thursday of the Sixteenth Week in Ordinary Time

• 1st Reading -- Exodus 19:1-2, 9-11, 16-20b
• Responsorial -- Daniel 3:52, 53, 54, 55, 56
  R. Glory and praise for ever!
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 13:10-17

Gospel Today - A sower went out to sow

On that day, Jesus went out of the house and sat down by the sea. Such large crowds gathered around him that he got into a boat and sat down, and the whole crowd stood along the shore. And he spoke to them at length in parables, saying: "A sower went out to sow. Matthew 13:1-3 NAB

July 20, 2011 - Wednesday of the Sixteenth Week in Ordinary Time

• 1st Reading -- Exodus 16:1-5, 9-15
• Responsorial -- Psalm 78:18-19, 23-24, 25-26, 27-28
  R. The Lord gave them bread from heaven
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 13:1-9

Gospel Today - And stretching out his hand toward his disciples

But he said in reply to the one who told him, "Who is my mother? Who are my brothers?" And stretching out his hand toward his disciples, he said, "Here are my mother and my brothers. For whoever does the will of my heavenly Father is my brother, and sister, and mother." Matthew 12:48-50 NAB

July 19, 2011 - Tuesday of the Sixteenth Week in Ordinary Time

• 1st Reading -- Exodus 14:21-15:1
• Responsorial -- Exodus 15:8-9, 10 and 12, 17
  R. Let us sing to the Lord; he has covered himself in glory
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 12:46-50

Gospel Today - Teacher, we wish to see a sign from you

Then some of the scribes and Pharisees said to him, "Teacher, we wish to see a sign from you." He said to them in reply, "An evil and unfaithful generation seeks a sign, but no sign will be given it except the sign of Jonah the prophet. Matthew 12:38-39 NAB

July 18, 2011 - Monday of the Sixteenth Week in Ordinary Time

• 1st Reading -- Exodus 14:5-18
• Responsorial -- Exodus 15:1bc-2, 3-4, 5-6
  R. Let us sing to the Lord; he has covered himself in glory
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 12:38-42

Gospel Today - The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed

He proposed another parable to them. "The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed that a person took and sowed in a field. It is the smallest of all the seeds, yet when full-grown it is the largest of plants. It becomes a large bush, and the 'birds of the sky come and dwell in its branches.'" Matthew 13:31-32 NAB

July 17, 2011 - Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

• 1st Reading -- Wisdom 12:13, 16-19
• Responsorial -- Psalm 86:5-6, 9-10, 15-16
  R. Lord, you are good and forgiving
• 2nd Reading -- Romans 8:26-27
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 13:24-33

Gospel Reflection - Let good and evil grow together until harvest!

Good and evil - they're simply together, and oftentimes we just can't tell which is which. We don't understand it. We complain against it. We all wonder where we draw our strength in the midst of chaos. We all wonder how to preserve peace and prosperity. We run out of answers, and this is what we hear in the gospel today.

Let's submit to the reality that good and bad are here to stay, together, and oftentimes we just can't tell which is which.
Photo Credit: 'Blades of Chaos' by Jenny Downing

Let them grow together until harvest; then at harvest time I will say to the harvesters, "First collect the weeds and tie them in bundles for burning; but gather the wheat into my barn." Matthew 13:30 NAB

Preach today's gospel to the victims of sexual abuses by the clergy in the USA and Europe, especially in Ireland these days. The Irish government is about to expel the Papal nuncio. The Pope himself is rethinking his planned visit in the wake of the strained relations between the Holy See and Ireland. We have a crucified Church in the face of clerical abuses.

Victims want justice today. No, yesterday. Wouldn't you?

Gospel Today - Many (people) followed him, and he cured them all

But the Pharisees went out and took counsel against him to put him to death. When Jesus realized this, he withdrew from that place. Many (people) followed him, and he cured them all, but he warned them not to make him known. Matthew 12:14-16 NAB

July 16, 2011 - Saturday of the Fifteenth Week in Ordinary Time

• 1st Reading -- Exodus 12:37-42
• Responsorial -- Psalm 136:1 and 23-24, 10-12, 13-15
  R. His mercy endures forever or Alleluia
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 12:14-21

Pope John Paul II - Titan of World Peace

I am fortunate to have read the biography of Blessed John Paul II from one of his biographers. You could imagine that it was a thick book. But I remember clearly that his life was closely intertwined with that of Poland's history. Now a democracy, Poland owes its transition from communist rule to the interventions of then Pope John Paul II. He was more than just a Pope to the Catholics. He was a symbol of freedom to the entire humanity.

Fantastic Four: Pope John Paul II, Gorbachev, Thatcher and Reagan
Photo and caption from MailOnline 

William Rees-Moog of Mail Online writes: One, Pope John Paul II, brought immense influence to the table, particularly in Eastern Europe. He was leading a church with a billion members; he was a Pole who had experienced the wartime suffering of his own nation under two tyrannies. In any club of victims of the Marxist or Nazi tyranny, Poland is a founder member. Apart from the Pope’s role in religion, he also had authority due to his remarkable strength of character.

He was a great Pope in an era that called for greatness. Read more...

Gospel Today - For the Son of Man is Lord of the sabbath

I say to you, something greater than the temple is here. If you knew what this meant, 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice,' you would not have condemned these innocent men. For the Son of Man is Lord of the sabbath." Matthew 12:6-8 NAB

July 15, 2011 - Memorial of Saint Bonaventure, bishop and doctor of the Church

• 1st Reading -- Exodus 11:10—12:14
• Responsorial -- Psalm 116:12-13, 15 and 16bc, 17-18
  R. I will take the cup of salvation, and call on the name of the Lord
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 12:1-8

In Philippines, Catholic lay groups to raise funds for bishops implicated in PCSO fund controversy

The bishops in the Philippines have admitted that controversy brought about some bishops receiving donations from the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (a gambling company operated by the government) has hurt the Church. Indeed, it has. The question is, what next? This piece of news shows a very Christian direction. My salutes to its organizers.

MANILA, Philippines – Catholic lay groups led by former Manila Mayor Lito Atienza launched a signature drive and fund-raising campaign, on Tuesday, to support the bishops accused of receiving financial donations from the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) during the Arroyo administration.

Atienza, a leader of a Catholic pro-life movement in the country, said they have been planning to seek donations from Catholics to raise the equivalent of the P8.258 million that the bishops received from the PCSO.

He said the money could either be returned to the PCSO, or given to the bishops for them to buy new vehicles for their parishioners if the cars they bought with money from the PCSO were surrendered to the government.

“We will coordinate with all Catholic organizations—churches, parishes, schools—that want to help like when we gathered one million signatures to convince Cory Aquino to run in 1985. We were able to do that because we helped each other,” Atienza. More...

Gospel Today - For my yoke is easy, and my burden light

Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for your selves. For my yoke is easy, and my burden light." Matthew 11:28-30 NAB

July 14, 2011 - Memorial of Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha, virgin

• 1st Reading -- Exodus 3:13-20
• Responsorial -- Psalm 105:1 and 5, 8-9, 24-25, 26-27
  R. The Lord remembers his covenant for ever
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 11:28-30

Malaysia PM Najib to meet Pope, eyes ties with the Holy See

Upon reading this news, I couldn't help but close my eyes for the surge of profound joy. This is a very positive response to the Vatican's call for all religions to come to a common ground of civility and diplomacy to make this world a better place. Malaysia's upcoming diplomatic ties with the Vatican (or so we fervently pray) is a big step towards this direction. It is a reason for all peace loving Christians and Muslims to rejoice.

Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak meeting is to show that Malaysia respects all religions and to establish diplomatic ties with the Vatican.

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak is due to meet Pope Benedict XVI mid-July as Malaysia embarks on a plan to establish diplomatic relations with the Vatican, a top official said today.

“The meeting with Pope Benedict XVI is set for July 18. The meeting with the pope is to show that Malaysia respects all religions,” the official told AFP on condition of anonymity.

About nine percent of Malaysia’s 28 million people are Christian, including 850,000 Catholics. More...

Gospel Today - All things have been handed over to me by my Father

All things have been handed over to me by my Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son wishes to reveal him. Matthew 11:27 NAB

July 13, 2011 - Wednesday of the Fifteenth Week in Ordinary Time

• 1st Reading -- Exodus 3:1-6, 9-12
• Responsorial -- Psalm 103:1b-2, 3-4, 6-7
  R. The Lord is kind and merciful
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 11:25-27

‘Wayang Wahyu’: Indonesian shadow puppetry narrates Bible stories

Indonesia is a Southeast Asian country with three time zones in between its tips. Muslims comprise 86% of its 243 million population. Catholics comprise only 3%. Yet, Indonesia and the Philippines have historically been very good friends. It is therefore not surprising to see a Philippine newspaper talk about Indonesian art being featured in a Catholic educational institution. But what may intrigue you is that this Indonesian art features the Bible.

Fr. Isidro Abano writes at the Philippine Daily Inquirer: Blessed John Paul II was convinced that art is one effective medium by which Christianity and other non-Christian beliefs can have a dialogue within the area of the various cultures of the contemporary world. As he once expressed in one of the assemblies of the Pontifical Commission for the Church Cultural Heritage, “The wisdom of the human persons of art and culture searches constantly through their works the face of God and of the human being.”

Javanese Wayang Kulit (shadow puppet) performance by a famous Indonesian dalang (puppet master) Ki Manteb Sudharsono, is usually a whole night long. Photo and caption from Wikipedia

This idea of the blessed Pontiff becomes a reality when on Aug. 16, the University of Santo Tomas Museum opens an exhibition of Baroto Murti Anindito’s art works, entitled: “Wayang Wahyu: Biblical Art in indonesian Puppetry.” More...

Gospel Today - You will go down to the netherworld

But I tell you, it will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon on the day of judgment than for you. And as for you, Capernaum: 'Will you be exalted to heaven? You will go down to the netherworld.' For if the mighty deeds done in your midst had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day. Matthew 11:22-23 NAB

July 12, 2011 - Tuesday of the Fifteenth Week in Ordinary Time

• 1st Reading -- Exodus 2:1-15a
• Responsorial -- Psalm 69:3, 14, 30-31, 33-34
  R. Turn to the Lord in your need, and you will live
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 11:20-24

‘Virtual pilgrimage’ to World Youth Day uses Facebook

So, you want to know what cool Catholics do, huh? This is one of them -- a virtual pilgrimage to the World Youth Day via Facebook. Those who are not going has this option going for them. Let's all join our brothers and sisters in Madrid in August, without leaving our home --- thanks to this absolutely cool app.

Washington D.C., Jul 10, 2011 / 07:26 am (CNA).- The U.S. bishops have launched a Facebook app and a website to serve as a “virtual pilgrimage” to World Youth Day 2011 for those who are staying home.

Users can create an avatar and use it to participate in the “pilgrimage” coinciding with the August 16-21 worldwide youth gathering. A Google map also provides visuals of pilgrims’ worldwide origins and shows them on a detailed map of Madrid. More...

Gospel Today - Whoever receives me receives the one who sent me

Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. "Whoever receives you receives me, and whoever receives me receives the one who sent me. Matthew 10:39-40 NAB

July 11, 2011 - Memorial of Saint Benedict, abbot

• 1st Reading -- Exodus 1:8-14, 22
• Responsorial -- Psalm 124:1b-3, 4-6, 7-8
  R. Our help is in the name of the Lord
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 10:34-11:1

Gospel Reflection - How do I become like fertile soil, o Lord?

Rather than reflect on what sort of soil we were in the context of today's gospel, the lay minister said, "How do you cultivate the soil around you so they would become fertile?" That statement caught me off-guard.

Photo Credit: "11/4.2011 speedy salad" by julochka

(Just a short note on why I heard that from a lay minister: In our subdivision, mass was said at 6:30pm on Sundays. In many instances, the priest did not make it after a full day's schedule. The lay ministers would take over the liturgy and speak to the flock.)

I had a garden at home and so I knew exactly what he meant. But I never looked at it that way in the context of the gospel before. Let me elaborate.

Gospel Today - To anyone who has, more will be given

He said to them in reply, "Because knowledge of the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven has been granted to you, but to them it has not been granted. To anyone who has, more will be given and he will grow rich; from anyone who has not, even what he has will be taken away. Matthew 13:11-12 NAB

July 10, 2011 - Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

• 1st Reading -- Isaiah 55:10-11
  
• Responsorial -- Psalm 65:10, 11, 12-13, 14
  R. The seed that falls on good ground will yield a fruitful harvest
  
• 2nd Reading -- Romans 8:18-23
  
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 13:1-23 or 13:1-9

Post-Corapi Church: Lord, To Whom Shall We Go?

I am one of those who have been emotionally "hit" by the so-called "Father Corapi mess." It hurts to miss a familiar face and voice, and, at the same time, know that this is the right thing to be at this time. Dr. Nadal here puts everything into perspective ... "there should be an affinity, a love of God that eclipses that of the one who led us home." Let's pray for Corapi as he undertakes a new path within the Catholic Church as part of the laity, or so I pray. We know in our hearts that God has grander plans at work for him, for those who have been ministered by him and for the Church in general.

Dr. Gerard Nadal of the Coming Home Blog writes: There are many who have been genuinely shaken in their faith by the Father Corapi mess. I humbly offer the following.

Yes, there is a special affinity for the one who led us home, but there should be an affinity, a love of God that eclipses that of the one who led us home. If there isn’t, then that is the first order of business in the continued spiritual journey.

Still, it can be frightening, confusing, disorienting, disillusioning. One verse from the Psalms, Psalm 46:10 is the perfect medicine:

“Be still, and know that I am Lord.” More...

Gospel Today - You are worth more than many sparrows

Even all the hairs of your head are counted. So do not be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows. Everyone who acknowledges me before others I will acknowledge before my heavenly Father. But whoever denies me before others, I will deny before my heavenly Father. Matthew 10:30-33 NAB

July 9, 2011 - Saturday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time

• 1st Reading -- Genesis 49:29-32; 50:15-26a
• Responsorial -- Psalm 105:1-2, 3-4, 6-7
  R. Be glad you lowly ones; may your hearts be glad!
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 10:24-33

Christian leaders issue recommendations for evangelizing

I fervently pray that participants of this initiative would open themselves up to the guidance of the Holy Spirit all the way to implementation. Ecumenism means I can practice my faith in the presence of everyone. It means I can make the sign of the cross in front of the most anti-Catholic "Christian" that I would meet along the road, and receive the same forbearance as Catholics give to Protestants who do not make a sign of the cross before praying.

John Thavis of the Catholic News Service reports from the Vatican City: The Vatican and other Christian representatives have issued a series of recommendations for evangelization in multifaith societies, rejecting aggressive or coercive methods but defending the right to profess, propagate or change one's religion.

The principles were outlined June 28 in a document titled, "Christian Witness in a Multi-Religious World: Recommendations for Conduct," issued jointly by the Pontifical Council for the Interreligious Dialogue, the World Council of Churches and the World Evangelical Alliance.

The document was the product of five years of consultations by some 40 experts in ecumenical and interreligious dialogue. Cardinal Jean-Louis Tauran [pictured], the head of the Vatican's interreligious council, said defining the principles was "not easy" but that the final text was important and should now be studied by Christian communities around the world. More...

Gospel Today - Whoever endures to the end will be saved

Brother will hand over brother to death, and the father his child; children will rise up against parents and have them put to death. You will be hated by all because of my name, but whoever endures to the end will be saved. When they persecute you in one town, flee to another. Amen, I say to you, you will not finish the towns of Israel before the Son of Man comes. Matthew 10:21-23 NAB

July 8, 2011 - Friday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time

• 1st Reading -- Genesis 46:1-7, 28-30
• Responsorial -- Psalm 37:3-4, 18-19, 27-28, 39-40
  R. The salvation of the just comes from the Lord
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 10:16-23

Gospel Today - Let your peace come upon it

As you enter a house, wish it peace. If the house is worthy, let your peace come upon it; if not, let your peace return to you. Whoever will not receive you or listen to your words--go outside that house or town and shake the dust from your feet. Matthew 10:12-14 NAB

July 7, 2011 - Thursday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time

• 1st Reading -- Genesis 44:18-21, 23b-29; 45:1-5
• Responsorial -- Psalm 105:16-17, 18-19, 20-21
  R. Remember the marvels the Lord has done
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 10:7-15

Pope will highlight Confession at World Youth Day in Madrid

I've been a youth once (everyone is or has been) and in many ways I still feel like the youth (maybe that's why I'm heading a youth group ^_^). One of the greatest fears I had was confession. I had my most terrifying confession during the Christian Life Program for Singles for Christ in 1997. I really felt filthy that time. But after the confession? Man, the feeling was ecstatic. It was like unloading a 50kg load off my back. I wish the youth in World Youth Day would have that feeling as well.

An innovation in the program of the next World Youth Day: the pope administering the sacrament of forgiveness. With the Son of God who "went deep down into the sordid darkness of our sins" 

ROME, July 5, 2011 (by Sandro Magister) - World Youth Day is not an invention of Benedict XVI, but of his predecessor.

Pope Joseph Ratzinger, however, has introduced two very significant innovations.
The first was in Cologne, in the summer of 2005. At the culmination of the nighttime vigil, Pope Benedict knelt before the consecrated host. At length, and in silence. With hundreds of thousands of young people touched by this act of adoration.
The second innovation will be introduced in Madrid, on the morning of next August 20, in the Jardines del Buen Retiro. At the 26th World Youth Day, which will be held in the Spanish capital, the pope will administer the sacrament of confession in public, for one hour before celebrating the Mass in the cathedral. More...

Gospel Today - The kingdom of heaven is at hand

Jesus sent out these twelve after instructing them thus, "Do not go into pagan territory or enter a Samaritan town. Go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. As you go, make this proclamation: 'The kingdom of heaven is at hand.' Matthew 10:5-7 NAB

July 6, 2011 - Wednesday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time

• 1st Reading -- Genesis 41:55-57; 42:5-7a, 17-24a
  
• Responsorial -- Psalm 33:2-3, 10-11, 18-19
  R. Lord, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you
  
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 10:1-7

Altar rail returning to use in churches

I grew up (I'm 42 at this writing) with a faint memory of the altar railings in the local Church. It was gone when the Church was renovated. Fast forward ten years later, in college, the Church there had altar railings and I thought it was very fitting. Soon after it was gone too. I'm happy that the Pope wants them back. They weren't supposed to be taken out in the first place.

The traditional altar rail in Catholic Churches. Where are they now?
Photo Credit: Wikipedia

Joseph Pronechen of the National Catholic Register writes: In Tiverton, R.I., when some parishioners suggested returning altar rails to the sanctuary of Holy Ghost Catholic Church, Father Jay Finelli gladly accepted, little knowing shortly thereafter the Pope’s 2007 motu proprio letter Summorum Pontificum would follow and he would be interested in learning how to celebrate the extraordinary form of the Mass. More...

CathNews writes: James Hitchcock, professor and author of Recovery of the Sacred (Ignatius Press, 1995), thinks the rail resurgence is a good idea. The main reason is reverence, he said. “Kneeling’s purpose is to facilitate adoration,” he explained.

They may be returning, but were altar rails supposed to be taken out of sanctuaries? More...

Gospel Today - The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few

Jesus went around to all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom, and curing every disease and illness. At the sight of the crowds, his heart was moved with pity for them because they were troubled and abandoned, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, "The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few. Matthew 9:35-37 NAB

July 5, 2011 - Tuesday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time

• 1st Reading -- Genesis 32:23-33
  
• Responsorial -- Psalm 17:1b, 2-3, 6-7ab, 8b and 15
  R. In justice, I shall behold your face, O Lord
  
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 9:32-38

Tough Vatican statement on illegitimate Chinese ordination

What can I say? This recurring event in China is sad. When you're Catholic, you recite the Apostle's Creed, which is the same throughout Christiandom, in China or otherwise. You say at the latter part, "I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Holy Catholic Church, the communion of saints ..." I would think of China while saying the 2nd Sorrowful Mystery and find strength in knowing how Jesus Christ has overcome the world.

VATICAN CITY — The Vatican today issued a tough statement on the recent ordination of a Chinese bishop without papal approval, saying the prelate has no right to govern the diocese.

xxx 3) An episcopal ordination without Papal mandate is directly opposed to the spiritual role of the Supreme Pontiff and damages the unity of the Church. The Leshan ordination was a unilateral act which sows division and unfortunately produces rifts and tensions in the Catholic community in China. The survival and development of the Church can only take place in union with him to whom the Church herself is entrusted in the first place, and not without his consent as, however, occurred in Leshan. If it is desired that the Church in China be Catholic, the Church’s doctrine and discipline must be respected. More...

Related Reading: What is excommunication?

Gospel Today - Courage, daughter! Your faith has saved you

She said to herself, "If only I can touch his cloak, I shall be cured." Jesus turned around and saw her, and said, "Courage, daughter! Your faith has saved you." And from that hour the woman was cured. Matthew 9:21-22 NAB

July 4, 2011 - Monday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time

• 1st Reading -- Genesis 28:10-22a
  
• Responsorial -- Psalm 91:1-2, 3-4, 14-15ab
  R. In you, my God, I place my trust
  
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 9:18-26

Gospel Reflection - Let the Child Within You Arise Today

Findings in the area of psychology and personal development point to the fact that a man's mind gets programmed -- yes, in the same sense as computers get programmed -- as he grows from infancy to late teens. Much of one's world view grow from there, and along with it one's feelings towards people and situations, and one's behavior. Gurus in personal development point to the need to reawaken in each man the child within us.

Once upon a time we all were children. In God's eyes, we still are.
Photo Credit: "Mini-Me" by Gustavo Verrissimo

But this was exactly what Jesus was referring to in the language of people in Israel 2,000 years ago. Jesus has made several references to children in the gospel. In all these instances, he referred to the children with great fondness.

Let me elaborate . . .

Gospel Today - Take my yoke upon you and learn from me

Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for your selves. Matthew 11:28-29 NAB

July 3, 2011 - Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

• 1st Reading -- Zechariah 9:9-10
  
• Responsorial -- Ps 145:1-2, 8-9, 10-11, 13-14
  R. I will praise your name for ever, my king and my God
  
• 2nd Reading -- Romans 8:9, 11-13
  
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 11:25-30
  

Gospel Today - Son, why have you done this to us?

When his parents saw him, they were astonished, and his mother said to him, "Son, why have you done this to us? Your father and I have been looking for you with great anxiety." Luke 2:48 NAB

July 2, 2011 - Memorial of the Immaculate Heart of The Blessed Virgin Mary

• 1st Reading -- Genesis 27:1-5, 15-29
  
• Responsorial -- 135:1b-2, 3-4, 5-6
  R. Praise the Lord for the Lord is good!
  
• 2nd Reading -- Luke 2:41-51
  
• Gospel Today -- Luke 2:41-51

Church takes steps into social media

The tool to evangelize the world -- that is, bring everyone in communion with the mystical Body of Christ -- is here. The Pope sees the power of social media. He is even into tweeting these days. I believe the Holy Spirit would guide the Church and the faithfuls in the proper use of social media to propagate the Word.

Heidi Schlumpf [pictured] writes at the National Catholic Reporter: Hardly known for the speed with which it adopts modern technology, the church is surely, but slowly, joining the masses on social networking sites like Facebook, MySpace and Twitter. There are now more social network accounts than there are people in the world, and thousands belong to Catholic clergy, sisters, parishes, schools, publications and other organizations.

Used properly, social networking sites can help Catholics communicate and build community, says Lisa Hendey, who gives workshops on Catholic new media and was one of 150 Catholics worldwide invited to a Vatican meeting for bloggers in May. More...

Click here for recommended books by Lisa Hendey

Who Else Asks, If Salvation is Available to all, then why Evangelize?

The Catholic Church indeed teaches that salvation is available to those who are not Catholic faithfuls -- meaning to those who don't call themselves Catholics nor Christians. So, why evangelize? Why invite separated brothers to come home or convert non-Christians to the Church?

To Glorify God as one people in the mystical Body of Christ: This is why we Catholics evangelize.
Photo Credit: 'Where the Feeble Senses Fail' by Andy Coan 

If these questions have dampened your spirit towards evangelization, then gird your loins for a stinging rebuke. Let me elaborate in this post.

Gospel Today - No one knows the Son except the Father

All things have been handed over to me by my Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son wishes to reveal him. Matthew 11:27 NAB

July 1, 2011 - Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus

• 1st Reading -- Deuteronomy 7:6-11
  
• Responsorial -- 103:1-2, 3-4, 6-7, 8, 10
  R. The Lord's kindness is everlasting to those who fear him
  
• 2nd Reading -- 1 John 4:7-16
  
• Gospel Today -- Matthew 11:25-30