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Sister Rose Immacula Brennan devoted her life to God, but it was her love of music that will live on. At age 83, Sister Rose died Wednesday after complications from treatment for cancer.
For almost a quarter-century as a director and voice teacher at St. Joseph's School of Music in St. Paul, Sister Rose worked to bring music into thousands of students' lives. From toddlers to senior citizens, Sister Rose welcomed people from all walks of life into one of the Twin Cities' largest music schools. She would do anything to ensure the school's success — answering phones, recruiting and teaching students, balancing the budget and leading concerts.
"Sister Rose was the music school," said Laurie Dehmlow, whom Sister Rose hired 17 years ago as a vocal teacher at St. Joseph's School of Music. "I was amazed at how much she accomplished. She was a tiny woman with a very large vision." Sister Rose was barely 5 feet tall and weighed less than 100 pounds.
The school, where almost 800 students are enrolled, traces its beginnings to the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet nearly 120 years ago. But as the number of students outgrew its former Summit Avenue location, Sister Rose found the current space on the third floor of the Bigelow Building at University Avenue and Syndicate Street last year and helped move the entire school. She also negotiated its five-year lease.
"Her faith was unbelievable," said John D. Brennan, a nephew living in Coronado, Calif. "She was a very upbeat person. She wasn't a complainer."
Sister Brennan was born Jan. 30, 1923, in Ellendale, N.D., as Elizabeth Ann Brennan. She was the youngest child in a family of musicians. Before entering the Sisters of St. Joseph, Sister Rose studied chemistry and music at the College of St. Catherine. She also worked as director of vocal music for musicals at Cretin and Derham Hall high schools in the 1960s, directing students in numerous Broadway shows.
While Sister Rose devoted her life to music education, she also maintained a separate life devoted to her religion and activism.
During Sister Rose's last days at Bethany Convent in St. Paul, a cadre of friends and former students formed a constant stream in and out of her room, said Sister Marie Shaun, a close friend and assistant director at the music school. [...snip] Pioneer Press
Monday, December 11, 2006
Sunday, December 10, 2006
Just What is Your Favorite Christmas Carol?
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The Telegraph in the UK has a little contest going for its readers. These are the choices of one of its writers. Some of them I've never heard of.
Once in Royal David’s City
Hark! the Herald Angels
O Come, all ye Faithful
Coventry Carol
In the Bleak Midwinter
Away in a Manger
Ding Dong! Merrily on High
Angels, from the Realms of Glory
The 12 Days of Christmas
God Rest you Merry, Gentlemen
Good Christian Men, Rejoice
Good King Wenceslas
While Shepherds Watched
O Little Town of Bethlehem
Silent Night
The First Nowell
It Came upon the Midnight Clear
The Holly and the Ivy
We Three Kings
I Saw Three Ships
Check out the Telegraph where you can learn a little bit about them and hear and judge them for yourself. A good selection.
What are your favorite Carols?
The Telegraph in the UK has a little contest going for its readers. These are the choices of one of its writers. Some of them I've never heard of.
Once in Royal David’s City
Hark! the Herald Angels
O Come, all ye Faithful
Coventry Carol
In the Bleak Midwinter
Away in a Manger
Ding Dong! Merrily on High
Angels, from the Realms of Glory
The 12 Days of Christmas
God Rest you Merry, Gentlemen
Good Christian Men, Rejoice
Good King Wenceslas
While Shepherds Watched
O Little Town of Bethlehem
Silent Night
The First Nowell
It Came upon the Midnight Clear
The Holly and the Ivy
We Three Kings
I Saw Three Ships
Check out the Telegraph where you can learn a little bit about them and hear and judge them for yourself. A good selection.
What are your favorite Carols?
If Animals Exhibit Homosexual Behavior, Does That Mean Homosexual Behavior Is Natural For Humans Because Humans Are Animals?
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Homosexual behaviour is widespread amongst animals, according to a Norwegian museum. But what does this prove for us humans?
Tennis legend Martina Navratilova can't keep off centre court. Having set down her racquet, she is taking up cudgels in favour of gay sheep. Apparently researchers at Oregon State University and Oregon Health and Science University have been tampering with the hormones of sheep to ensure heterosexual behaviour and hence higher reproduction yields for the farmers. In protest, Navratilova, a lesbian activist who moonlights as an animal liberation activist, faxed these institutions the following statement:
"How can it be that, in the year 2006, a major university would host such homophobic and cruel experiments? ... I respectfully ask that you pull the plug on this appalling and misguided research. Surely you can find a way to redirect the millions of public tax dollars that are being wasted on these experiments to a more fruitful venture -- perhaps by funding a gay and lesbian community centre to foster dialogue and acceptance for people of all sexual preferences?"
This is Martina's beef. As a vegetarian and a lesbian, she fears that people will no longer think that homosexuality is hard-wired if gay rams can be reprogrammed. The "insidious implication" is that homosexuality in humans can be cured. Her contention is that it is "natural".
She has been supported in this by Norway’s National History Museum. This hitherto obscure institution has been featured around the world because of its unique photographic exhibit, called "Against Nature?" The world's first museum exhibition dedicated to gay animals, it "proves" that that homosexual behaviour is not a "crime against nature". Homosexuality, it claims, "has been observed in most vertebrate groups, and also from insects, spiders, crustaceans, octopi and parasitic worms. The phenomenon has been reported from more than 1500 animal species, and is well documented for 500 of them, but the real extent is probably much higher." Despite some protests, school children are getting guided tours.
For anyone who has a traditional view of sexuality, these images, are, admittedly, rather confronting. If animals engage in sexual activity for non-reproductive reasons how can the link between the unitive and procreative ends of human sexual intercourse be maintained as a fact of nature?
However, the answer is easier than it might seem at first blush. Homo sapiens is an animal, but not merely an animal. We have a lot in common with parasitic worms, but there are some differences, too. Our bodily nature is subject to intellectual direction. A human being unites the intellectual and the corporeal, what is rational and what is animal. We get a distorted picture of man when we focus on one aspect to the exclusion of the other. They can never be separated.
Interpersonal relations which are truly human cannot be reduced to physical sensations of pleasure or pain. Anyone who chooses to behave in that way is rightly called an animal. When he acts like a sex-obsessed parasitic worm, he becomes less than human. This is the fallacy underpinning the Norwegian exhibition. Its logic can be expressed as follows:
-Homosexual behaviour is observable in animals.
-Therefore, homosexuality is in accordance with animal nature.
-Man is an animal and therefore homosexuality is in accordance with human nature.
Now try extending this argument to other aspects of human life. Animals don't take care of the elderly -- should that lead us to close down nursing homes? Cannibalism can be observed among animals -- should we sell unwanted babies as sausage filling? Most people would say that we shouldn't. Humans are different.
And let's take a closer look at the word "unnatural". Are homosexual acts an intrinsic part of an animal’s nature? The Museum’s zoologists are prepared to stick their neck out and say they are, at least for giraffes. The reasons why male giraffes behave this way are not well understood, but they are certainly not the fruit of conscious, rational decisions. The behaviour of animals is largely governed by stimuli and instinct; they lack the human linguistic ability to be able to "talk through" their emotions. But humans can keep their desires in check and even train them into virtues.
Amongst animals, stimuli can lead to unusual behaviour. Tomcats kill their kittens after receiving “mixed signals”. The hunting instinct is so strong and so hard to switch off that dismemberment and even snacking on their own kittens may ensue. Similarly, the strength of the sexual instinct leads to some quite odd behaviour if it does not have a normal outlet. However zoologists may decide to classify such stray behaviour in animals, human reaction to sexual stimuli involves a good deal of channelling and self-control.
Amongst animals, sex can serve a purpose other than reproduction, such as diffusing tension in social situations. Humans accomplish the same thing with handshakes and smiles. If they were to behave like bonobos in their workplace, there would be a torrent of sexual harassment suits. According to some zoologist, dolphins pack rape. Is that "Against Nature?" Not for dolphins maybe, but it sure is for rational beings.
Due to our rational nature comparisons with non-rational animals collapse at the level of interpersonal relationships. Even at the level of biology, human rationality must be taken into consideration. Humans choose to follow hormonally fuelled drives; sheep have no choice about it. Martina Navratilova and her Norwegian fellow travellers are on shaky philosophical ground if they want to use animals as human role models.
Richard Umbers lectures in philosophy in Sydney. Mercatornet
Homosexual behaviour is widespread amongst animals, according to a Norwegian museum. But what does this prove for us humans?
Tennis legend Martina Navratilova can't keep off centre court. Having set down her racquet, she is taking up cudgels in favour of gay sheep. Apparently researchers at Oregon State University and Oregon Health and Science University have been tampering with the hormones of sheep to ensure heterosexual behaviour and hence higher reproduction yields for the farmers. In protest, Navratilova, a lesbian activist who moonlights as an animal liberation activist, faxed these institutions the following statement:
"How can it be that, in the year 2006, a major university would host such homophobic and cruel experiments? ... I respectfully ask that you pull the plug on this appalling and misguided research. Surely you can find a way to redirect the millions of public tax dollars that are being wasted on these experiments to a more fruitful venture -- perhaps by funding a gay and lesbian community centre to foster dialogue and acceptance for people of all sexual preferences?"
This is Martina's beef. As a vegetarian and a lesbian, she fears that people will no longer think that homosexuality is hard-wired if gay rams can be reprogrammed. The "insidious implication" is that homosexuality in humans can be cured. Her contention is that it is "natural".
She has been supported in this by Norway’s National History Museum. This hitherto obscure institution has been featured around the world because of its unique photographic exhibit, called "Against Nature?" The world's first museum exhibition dedicated to gay animals, it "proves" that that homosexual behaviour is not a "crime against nature". Homosexuality, it claims, "has been observed in most vertebrate groups, and also from insects, spiders, crustaceans, octopi and parasitic worms. The phenomenon has been reported from more than 1500 animal species, and is well documented for 500 of them, but the real extent is probably much higher." Despite some protests, school children are getting guided tours.
For anyone who has a traditional view of sexuality, these images, are, admittedly, rather confronting. If animals engage in sexual activity for non-reproductive reasons how can the link between the unitive and procreative ends of human sexual intercourse be maintained as a fact of nature?
However, the answer is easier than it might seem at first blush. Homo sapiens is an animal, but not merely an animal. We have a lot in common with parasitic worms, but there are some differences, too. Our bodily nature is subject to intellectual direction. A human being unites the intellectual and the corporeal, what is rational and what is animal. We get a distorted picture of man when we focus on one aspect to the exclusion of the other. They can never be separated.
Interpersonal relations which are truly human cannot be reduced to physical sensations of pleasure or pain. Anyone who chooses to behave in that way is rightly called an animal. When he acts like a sex-obsessed parasitic worm, he becomes less than human. This is the fallacy underpinning the Norwegian exhibition. Its logic can be expressed as follows:
-Homosexual behaviour is observable in animals.
-Therefore, homosexuality is in accordance with animal nature.
-Man is an animal and therefore homosexuality is in accordance with human nature.
Now try extending this argument to other aspects of human life. Animals don't take care of the elderly -- should that lead us to close down nursing homes? Cannibalism can be observed among animals -- should we sell unwanted babies as sausage filling? Most people would say that we shouldn't. Humans are different.
And let's take a closer look at the word "unnatural". Are homosexual acts an intrinsic part of an animal’s nature? The Museum’s zoologists are prepared to stick their neck out and say they are, at least for giraffes. The reasons why male giraffes behave this way are not well understood, but they are certainly not the fruit of conscious, rational decisions. The behaviour of animals is largely governed by stimuli and instinct; they lack the human linguistic ability to be able to "talk through" their emotions. But humans can keep their desires in check and even train them into virtues.
Amongst animals, stimuli can lead to unusual behaviour. Tomcats kill their kittens after receiving “mixed signals”. The hunting instinct is so strong and so hard to switch off that dismemberment and even snacking on their own kittens may ensue. Similarly, the strength of the sexual instinct leads to some quite odd behaviour if it does not have a normal outlet. However zoologists may decide to classify such stray behaviour in animals, human reaction to sexual stimuli involves a good deal of channelling and self-control.
Amongst animals, sex can serve a purpose other than reproduction, such as diffusing tension in social situations. Humans accomplish the same thing with handshakes and smiles. If they were to behave like bonobos in their workplace, there would be a torrent of sexual harassment suits. According to some zoologist, dolphins pack rape. Is that "Against Nature?" Not for dolphins maybe, but it sure is for rational beings.
Due to our rational nature comparisons with non-rational animals collapse at the level of interpersonal relationships. Even at the level of biology, human rationality must be taken into consideration. Humans choose to follow hormonally fuelled drives; sheep have no choice about it. Martina Navratilova and her Norwegian fellow travellers are on shaky philosophical ground if they want to use animals as human role models.
Richard Umbers lectures in philosophy in Sydney. Mercatornet
Totus Tuus Catholic Youth Organization Sponsors Father/Son & Mother/Daughter Retreats Jan 6 and 13
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January 6, 2006: A father/son retreat is being sponsored by Totus Tuus Catholic Youth Organization in cooperation with the Archdiocesan Office of Family, Laity, Youth and Young Adults at Holy Family Catholic Church, 5900 West Lake Street in St. Louis Park, Mn.
Group 1 is ages 5 - 8, Group 2 is 9 - 12, and Group 3 is ages 13 and up. It is recommended that a parent or guardian attend, but is not mandatory.
The retreat runs from 8:00 am to 5:00pm at a cost of $35 per person, which includes 3 meals and roller skating. With a maximum of $100 per family. A la Carte cost is $20 per person, $10 for meals and $5 for roller skating with scholarships available.
Father Antoine Thomas, Father James Kubicki, Father Thomas Dufner, Miriam Companions & Teen Speakers and crafts & games. To register online, see: http://www.totustuuscyo.com/ or call: 651-748-1744.
January 13, 2006: A mother/daughter retreat is being sponsored by Totus Tuus Catholic Youth Organization in cooperation with the Archdiocesan Office of Family, Laity, Youth and Young Adults at Holy Family Catholic Church, 5900 West Lake Street in St. Louis Park, Mn.
Group 1 is ages 5 - 8, Group 2 is 9 - 12, and Group 3 is ages 13 and up. It is recommended that a parent or guardian attend, but is not mandatory.
The retreat runs from 8:00 am to 5:00pm at a cost of $35 per person, which includes 3 meals and roller skating. With a maximum of $100 per family. A la Carte cost is $20 per person, $10 for meals and $5 for roller skating with scholarships available.
Father Antoine Thomas, Father James Kubicki, Father Thomas Dufner, Miriam Companions & Teen Speakers and crafts & games. To register online, see: http://www.totustuuscyo.com/ or call: 651-748-1744. Catholic NewsNet
January 6, 2006: A father/son retreat is being sponsored by Totus Tuus Catholic Youth Organization in cooperation with the Archdiocesan Office of Family, Laity, Youth and Young Adults at Holy Family Catholic Church, 5900 West Lake Street in St. Louis Park, Mn.
Group 1 is ages 5 - 8, Group 2 is 9 - 12, and Group 3 is ages 13 and up. It is recommended that a parent or guardian attend, but is not mandatory.
The retreat runs from 8:00 am to 5:00pm at a cost of $35 per person, which includes 3 meals and roller skating. With a maximum of $100 per family. A la Carte cost is $20 per person, $10 for meals and $5 for roller skating with scholarships available.
Father Antoine Thomas, Father James Kubicki, Father Thomas Dufner, Miriam Companions & Teen Speakers and crafts & games. To register online, see: http://www.totustuuscyo.com/ or call: 651-748-1744.
January 13, 2006: A mother/daughter retreat is being sponsored by Totus Tuus Catholic Youth Organization in cooperation with the Archdiocesan Office of Family, Laity, Youth and Young Adults at Holy Family Catholic Church, 5900 West Lake Street in St. Louis Park, Mn.
Group 1 is ages 5 - 8, Group 2 is 9 - 12, and Group 3 is ages 13 and up. It is recommended that a parent or guardian attend, but is not mandatory.
The retreat runs from 8:00 am to 5:00pm at a cost of $35 per person, which includes 3 meals and roller skating. With a maximum of $100 per family. A la Carte cost is $20 per person, $10 for meals and $5 for roller skating with scholarships available.
Father Antoine Thomas, Father James Kubicki, Father Thomas Dufner, Miriam Companions & Teen Speakers and crafts & games. To register online, see: http://www.totustuuscyo.com/ or call: 651-748-1744. Catholic NewsNet
Father Robert Altier will be hosting a special evening of Adoration in Reparation to Our Lord which begins New Years Eve at 8:00 pm
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Father Robert Altier will be hosting a special evening of Adoration in Reparation to Our Lord which begins New Years Eve, Dec 31, at 8:00 pm; Confessions will be heard from 8:15 pm to 11:30 pm, Benediction at 11:45 pm and Midnight Mass in honor of Mary the Mother of God.
The vigil and Mass will be held at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church, 302 5th Ave North in South St. Paul. Phone is 651-451-9905. Catholic NewsNet
Father Robert Altier will be hosting a special evening of Adoration in Reparation to Our Lord which begins New Years Eve, Dec 31, at 8:00 pm; Confessions will be heard from 8:15 pm to 11:30 pm, Benediction at 11:45 pm and Midnight Mass in honor of Mary the Mother of God.
The vigil and Mass will be held at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church, 302 5th Ave North in South St. Paul. Phone is 651-451-9905. Catholic NewsNet
Former Evangelical and Fundamentalist, Steve Ray to Appear in South St Paul Jan 20
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The Holy Name Society, St. Augustine Catholic Church and Holy Trinity Catholic Church are jointly sponsoring the 5th Annual Catholic Apologetics Conference featuring former Evangelical and Fundamentalist, Steve Ray, who is a known author, and has appeared on EWTN as well as Catholic Radio. His topic is titled, “Unintended Journey.”
The event is on Saturday, Jan 20, 2007 and runs from 1:00 pm to 4:30 pm at St. Augustine’s, 302-5th Ave in South St. Paul, MN, and the cost is $15 for adults and $10 for youth and under. For tickets, see: www.nomensanctum.org or call 651-455-1212. Catholic NewsNet
The Holy Name Society, St. Augustine Catholic Church and Holy Trinity Catholic Church are jointly sponsoring the 5th Annual Catholic Apologetics Conference featuring former Evangelical and Fundamentalist, Steve Ray, who is a known author, and has appeared on EWTN as well as Catholic Radio. His topic is titled, “Unintended Journey.”
The event is on Saturday, Jan 20, 2007 and runs from 1:00 pm to 4:30 pm at St. Augustine’s, 302-5th Ave in South St. Paul, MN, and the cost is $15 for adults and $10 for youth and under. For tickets, see: www.nomensanctum.org or call 651-455-1212. Catholic NewsNet
Pope Benedict XVI Bestows Papal Honors Upon Seven Fargo Diocese Priests as Monsignors
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Most Rev. Samuel J. Aquila, Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Fargo, announced December 8, 2006 that Pope Benedict XVI has bestowed papal honors upon seven priests of the diocese.
In his announcement emailed to priests early this morning, Bishop Aquila noted that three priests have received the honorary title of Prelate of Honor of His Holiness and four have received the honorary title of Chaplain of His Holiness. All seven priests will now be referred to by the official title of Reverend Monsignor for the remainder of their lives.
Bishop Aquila will formally present the papal honors at an evening prayer service Sunday, Jan. 21, at 5:00 p.m. at the Cathedral of St. Mary, 604 Broadway, Fargo.
There are three grades of papal honors through which the recipients receive the official title of monsignor: Protonotary Apostolic, Prelate of Honor of His Holiness and Chaplain of His Holiness. One way in which the grade of papal honors is expressed is through the liturgical garments the priests receive upon being formally presented with the papal honors. Prior to changes made in 1969, those named Chaplains of His Holiness surrendered the title upon the death and burial of the pontiff who bestowed the honor. Today, all monsignors retain their titles even after the pope’s death.
Bishop Aquila said the papal honors “recognize the exemplary service these men have given to the Diocese of Fargo in their priestly ministry. This is not only a personal honor for these priests,” he continued, “but recognizes the ministry of every priest in service to Jesus Christ and His Church.” The honorary position includes membership within the Papal Household and thus bonds the priest in a special way with Pope Benedict XVI.
Those receiving papal honors as Prelates of Honor of His Holiness include Father Joseph R. Huebsch, 88, Chaplain, St. Gerard’s Nursing Home, Hankinson; Father Robert L. Laliberte, 60, Spiritual Director, Cardinal Muench Seminary, Fargo; and Father Dennis A. Skonseng, 50, Vicar General and Vicar for Clergy, Fargo. Those receiving papal honors as Chaplains of His Holiness include Father Daniel J. Pilon, 56, Pastor, St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Enderlin; Father Gregory J. Schlesselmann, 48, Rector, Cardinal Muench Seminary, Fargo; Father Jeffrey L. Wald, 42, Pastor, Holy Spirit Catholic Church, Fargo; and Father Joseph P. Goering, 37, former Chancellor, currently studying in Rome.
The last time priests of the diocese received this honor was in December 1999 when eight priests were named Prelates of Honor. Diocese of Fargo
Most Rev. Samuel J. Aquila, Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Fargo, announced December 8, 2006 that Pope Benedict XVI has bestowed papal honors upon seven priests of the diocese.
In his announcement emailed to priests early this morning, Bishop Aquila noted that three priests have received the honorary title of Prelate of Honor of His Holiness and four have received the honorary title of Chaplain of His Holiness. All seven priests will now be referred to by the official title of Reverend Monsignor for the remainder of their lives.
Bishop Aquila will formally present the papal honors at an evening prayer service Sunday, Jan. 21, at 5:00 p.m. at the Cathedral of St. Mary, 604 Broadway, Fargo.
There are three grades of papal honors through which the recipients receive the official title of monsignor: Protonotary Apostolic, Prelate of Honor of His Holiness and Chaplain of His Holiness. One way in which the grade of papal honors is expressed is through the liturgical garments the priests receive upon being formally presented with the papal honors. Prior to changes made in 1969, those named Chaplains of His Holiness surrendered the title upon the death and burial of the pontiff who bestowed the honor. Today, all monsignors retain their titles even after the pope’s death.
Bishop Aquila said the papal honors “recognize the exemplary service these men have given to the Diocese of Fargo in their priestly ministry. This is not only a personal honor for these priests,” he continued, “but recognizes the ministry of every priest in service to Jesus Christ and His Church.” The honorary position includes membership within the Papal Household and thus bonds the priest in a special way with Pope Benedict XVI.
Those receiving papal honors as Prelates of Honor of His Holiness include Father Joseph R. Huebsch, 88, Chaplain, St. Gerard’s Nursing Home, Hankinson; Father Robert L. Laliberte, 60, Spiritual Director, Cardinal Muench Seminary, Fargo; and Father Dennis A. Skonseng, 50, Vicar General and Vicar for Clergy, Fargo. Those receiving papal honors as Chaplains of His Holiness include Father Daniel J. Pilon, 56, Pastor, St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Enderlin; Father Gregory J. Schlesselmann, 48, Rector, Cardinal Muench Seminary, Fargo; Father Jeffrey L. Wald, 42, Pastor, Holy Spirit Catholic Church, Fargo; and Father Joseph P. Goering, 37, former Chancellor, currently studying in Rome.
The last time priests of the diocese received this honor was in December 1999 when eight priests were named Prelates of Honor. Diocese of Fargo
Fargo to Restore Cathedral to Original Design; Tabernacle to Return to Sanctuary
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Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
I am writing today as your pastor to share with you an upcoming sanctuary restoration project for St. Mary’s Cathedral. The Cathedral is a beautiful church, and I was impressed with its beauty on the day when I was ordained as your bishop.
Its last complete restoration, in 1996, was the result of the dedication and much loving labor of the faithful and clergy of the Diocese, under the direction of my predecessor, Bishop James Sullivan. I have received numerous compliments from those who visit our diocese about the gift we have in our Cathedral.
The Eucharistic devotion practiced by the faithful of the diocese, and particularly the practice of perpetual adoration of our Lord in the Eucharist which takes place at the Cathedral, clearly indicate the centrality of the real presence of Jesus Christ to the lives of faith for those in the Cathedral parish and for the faithful throughout the Fargo diocese. The project that I present to you today is intended to further express, deepen and nourish our Eucharistic faith.
Church teaching reminds us that a diocesan cathedral “in the majesty of its building is a symbol of the spiritual temple that is built up in souls and is resplendent with the glory of divine grace. . . . The cathedral, furthermore, should be regarded as the express image of Christ’s visible church, praying, singing, and worshiping on earth. The cathedral should be regarded as the image of Christ’s Mystical Body, whose members are joined together in an organism of charity that is sustained by the outpouring of God’s gifts” (Apostolic Consititution Mirificus eventus).
Expanding the teaching
The Ceremonial of Bishops expands upon this teaching. “With good reason, then, the cathedral church should be regarded as the center of the liturgical life of the diocese,” it states. “The cathedral church should be a model for the other churches of the diocese in its conformity to the directives laid down in liturgical documents and books with regard to the arrangement and adornment of churches.”
The Cathedral church draws its name from the “cathedra,” the bishop’s chair, from where he teaches and presides at liturgies. There are four principal points of reference in the sanctuary of the Cathedral. The first three are used in the celebration of the Sacrifice of the Mass. First and most central is the altar. The altar is a sign for us of Christ and the place where His one sacrifice is made present and offered to the Father. Second is the ambo from which the Word of God, and most especially the Gospel, is proclaimed. Third is the bishop’s chair, the cathedra, from which the bishop presides at liturgy, and by his ordination, presides in the person of Christ, the head, bridegroom and shepherd of the church. The final point of reference is the tabernacle, which holds the real presence of Jesus Christ in the most holy Eucharist throughout the offering of the sacred liturgy and for prayer and adoration by the faithful.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church tells us, “The tabernacle was first intended for the reservation of the Eucharist in a worthy place so that it could be brought to the sick and those absent, outside of Mass. As faith in the real presence of Christ in his Eucharist deepened, the church became conscious of the meaning of silent adoration of the Lord present under the Eucharistic species. It is for this reason that the tabernacle should be located in an especially worthy place in the church and should be constructed in such a way that it emphasizes and manifests the truth of the real presence of Christ in the Blessed Sacrament” (CCC 1379).
In addition, paragraph 1183 teaches, “The tabernacle is to be situated ‘in churches in a most worthy place with the greatest honor.’ The dignity, placing and security of the Eucharistic tabernacle should foster adoration before the Lord really present in the Blessed Sacrament of the altar.”
To best emphasize visually “the truth of the real presence of Christ in the Blessed Sacrament” and to ensure that the tabernacle is placed “in a most worthy place with the greatest honor,” I have authorized the renovation of the Cathedral sanctuary in order to return the tabernacle to its original location at the back center of the sanctuary. Furthermore, the ambo will be given a greater prominence and the cathedra will be moved. These moves within the sanctuary will restore the placement of these symbols to the original design of the Cathedral.
Eucharist is central in design
The Cathedral’s original design, as well as the documents cited above, show clearly the central and unchanging elements of our theology of the Eucharist, both before and after the Second Vatican Council. As part of ongoing maintenance, I have asked that a new sound system be installed and that the architect look at renewing the color scheme for the Cathedral to enhance the beauty of the existing building. A proper railing will also be placed on the choir loft to insure safety.
Through the foresight of a previous bishop and the generosity of a member of the laity whose love for the church reaches well beyond his years of life on earth, the project can be undertaken with little to no financial burden upon the faithful of the diocese or the Cathedral. However, I invite you to consider what you can do, through prayer and resources, to assist with the restoration of the Cathedral.
Enclosed is information explaining the project and funding in further detail. Similar information will be included in the diocesan newspaper, New Earth, inviting the faithful throughout the Diocese of Fargo to join in prayer and support of this visible proclamation of our Catholic faith.
As your bishop, I quote John Paul II with this prayer for all of us: “Sustained by Mary, may the church discover new enthusiasm for her mission and come to acknowledge ever more fully that the Eucharist is the source and summit of her entire life.”
Sincerely yours in Christ, Most Rev. Samuel J. Aquila, D.D., Bishop of Fargo
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
I am writing today as your pastor to share with you an upcoming sanctuary restoration project for St. Mary’s Cathedral. The Cathedral is a beautiful church, and I was impressed with its beauty on the day when I was ordained as your bishop.
Its last complete restoration, in 1996, was the result of the dedication and much loving labor of the faithful and clergy of the Diocese, under the direction of my predecessor, Bishop James Sullivan. I have received numerous compliments from those who visit our diocese about the gift we have in our Cathedral.
The Eucharistic devotion practiced by the faithful of the diocese, and particularly the practice of perpetual adoration of our Lord in the Eucharist which takes place at the Cathedral, clearly indicate the centrality of the real presence of Jesus Christ to the lives of faith for those in the Cathedral parish and for the faithful throughout the Fargo diocese. The project that I present to you today is intended to further express, deepen and nourish our Eucharistic faith.
Church teaching reminds us that a diocesan cathedral “in the majesty of its building is a symbol of the spiritual temple that is built up in souls and is resplendent with the glory of divine grace. . . . The cathedral, furthermore, should be regarded as the express image of Christ’s visible church, praying, singing, and worshiping on earth. The cathedral should be regarded as the image of Christ’s Mystical Body, whose members are joined together in an organism of charity that is sustained by the outpouring of God’s gifts” (Apostolic Consititution Mirificus eventus).
Expanding the teaching
The Ceremonial of Bishops expands upon this teaching. “With good reason, then, the cathedral church should be regarded as the center of the liturgical life of the diocese,” it states. “The cathedral church should be a model for the other churches of the diocese in its conformity to the directives laid down in liturgical documents and books with regard to the arrangement and adornment of churches.”
The Cathedral church draws its name from the “cathedra,” the bishop’s chair, from where he teaches and presides at liturgies. There are four principal points of reference in the sanctuary of the Cathedral. The first three are used in the celebration of the Sacrifice of the Mass. First and most central is the altar. The altar is a sign for us of Christ and the place where His one sacrifice is made present and offered to the Father. Second is the ambo from which the Word of God, and most especially the Gospel, is proclaimed. Third is the bishop’s chair, the cathedra, from which the bishop presides at liturgy, and by his ordination, presides in the person of Christ, the head, bridegroom and shepherd of the church. The final point of reference is the tabernacle, which holds the real presence of Jesus Christ in the most holy Eucharist throughout the offering of the sacred liturgy and for prayer and adoration by the faithful.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church tells us, “The tabernacle was first intended for the reservation of the Eucharist in a worthy place so that it could be brought to the sick and those absent, outside of Mass. As faith in the real presence of Christ in his Eucharist deepened, the church became conscious of the meaning of silent adoration of the Lord present under the Eucharistic species. It is for this reason that the tabernacle should be located in an especially worthy place in the church and should be constructed in such a way that it emphasizes and manifests the truth of the real presence of Christ in the Blessed Sacrament” (CCC 1379).
In addition, paragraph 1183 teaches, “The tabernacle is to be situated ‘in churches in a most worthy place with the greatest honor.’ The dignity, placing and security of the Eucharistic tabernacle should foster adoration before the Lord really present in the Blessed Sacrament of the altar.”
To best emphasize visually “the truth of the real presence of Christ in the Blessed Sacrament” and to ensure that the tabernacle is placed “in a most worthy place with the greatest honor,” I have authorized the renovation of the Cathedral sanctuary in order to return the tabernacle to its original location at the back center of the sanctuary. Furthermore, the ambo will be given a greater prominence and the cathedra will be moved. These moves within the sanctuary will restore the placement of these symbols to the original design of the Cathedral.
Eucharist is central in design
The Cathedral’s original design, as well as the documents cited above, show clearly the central and unchanging elements of our theology of the Eucharist, both before and after the Second Vatican Council. As part of ongoing maintenance, I have asked that a new sound system be installed and that the architect look at renewing the color scheme for the Cathedral to enhance the beauty of the existing building. A proper railing will also be placed on the choir loft to insure safety.
Through the foresight of a previous bishop and the generosity of a member of the laity whose love for the church reaches well beyond his years of life on earth, the project can be undertaken with little to no financial burden upon the faithful of the diocese or the Cathedral. However, I invite you to consider what you can do, through prayer and resources, to assist with the restoration of the Cathedral.
Enclosed is information explaining the project and funding in further detail. Similar information will be included in the diocesan newspaper, New Earth, inviting the faithful throughout the Diocese of Fargo to join in prayer and support of this visible proclamation of our Catholic faith.
As your bishop, I quote John Paul II with this prayer for all of us: “Sustained by Mary, may the church discover new enthusiasm for her mission and come to acknowledge ever more fully that the Eucharist is the source and summit of her entire life.”
Sincerely yours in Christ, Most Rev. Samuel J. Aquila, D.D., Bishop of Fargo
St Paul Seminary Announces $23 Million Expansion Campaign
.
The St Paul Seminary School of Divinity has announced a $23 million endowment campaign that will, in the words of Archbishop Harry Flynn, "transform a very good seminary into a premier institution for the formation of priests and lay people."
Seminary officials said Archbishop Flynn planned to announce at a Dec. 7 kick-off dinner at the seminary that $12,150,000 -- 53 percent of the $23 million goal -- already has been raised in the campaign's advance phase.
The local church is seeing a "new springtime" for priestly vocations, Msgr. Aloysius Callaghhan, St Paul Seminary rector, told the Catholic Spirit. "The archbishop's intent is to give the best possible formation program one can," he said, expounding upon the areas the seminary is hoping to enhance. "That has, in a certain sense its price tag."
The campaign's goals are:
-- $12 million for scholarships for seminarians
-- $6 million for endowed faculty chairs
-- $2 million for educational programs for lay parish workers
-- $5.3 million for seminarian formation programs
The campaign represents the first endowment fundraising effort since the early 1890s when Methodist railroad tycoon James J. Hill and his Catholic wife, Mary, not only built the seminary but donated an endowment fund to ensure its stability, according to seminary officials.
[...snip]
The campaign's $12 million goal for scholarships, when invested, will provide $500,000 to $600,000 annually, according to seminary officials.
[...snip]
The $6 million that will be raised for faculty chairs will not only attract professors with outstanding reputations, but the annual income stream will help the seminary's budget on an ongoing basis, according to the seminary, which currently has received a gift to endow one chair in homiletics. It plans to add at least two more chairs.
The St Paul Seminary School of Divinity plans to use $2 million that it raises to provide about $100,000 annually to support the lay students, who are studying for graduate degrees in the fields of pastoral studies, religious education, theology and divinity.
As the number of priests has declined, lay people lhave taken on greater responsibilities in parish work. Many pastors depend on them for help in the areas of education, pastoral care, music and church administration.
The $3 million earmarked to endow formation programs will provide an annual income of about $150,000 to underwrite a range of programs that address the "four pillars" of priestly formation developed by the US. Conference of Catholic Bishops, according to the seminary.
In addition to academic study, the pillars considt of human development, spiritual growth and pastoral formation.
To prepare seminarians for their ministry as pastors, for example, they must now become conversant in Spanish -- through language study and summer internships -- and become immersed in the cultures of their future parishioners.
[...snip]
Bolstered by seminarians from as far away as Colorado, Montana, Wyoming and Alaska, today's enrollment is 63 seminarians, up from its low point of 51 in 1993.
"There is room for 96," Msgr. Callaghan said. "More young men would enroll if the seminary had the financial aid to assist them." The Catholic Spirit, December 7, 2006 [No Internet link available]
The St Paul Seminary School of Divinity has announced a $23 million endowment campaign that will, in the words of Archbishop Harry Flynn, "transform a very good seminary into a premier institution for the formation of priests and lay people."
Seminary officials said Archbishop Flynn planned to announce at a Dec. 7 kick-off dinner at the seminary that $12,150,000 -- 53 percent of the $23 million goal -- already has been raised in the campaign's advance phase.
The local church is seeing a "new springtime" for priestly vocations, Msgr. Aloysius Callaghhan, St Paul Seminary rector, told the Catholic Spirit. "The archbishop's intent is to give the best possible formation program one can," he said, expounding upon the areas the seminary is hoping to enhance. "That has, in a certain sense its price tag."
The campaign's goals are:
-- $12 million for scholarships for seminarians
-- $6 million for endowed faculty chairs
-- $2 million for educational programs for lay parish workers
-- $5.3 million for seminarian formation programs
The campaign represents the first endowment fundraising effort since the early 1890s when Methodist railroad tycoon James J. Hill and his Catholic wife, Mary, not only built the seminary but donated an endowment fund to ensure its stability, according to seminary officials.
[...snip]
The campaign's $12 million goal for scholarships, when invested, will provide $500,000 to $600,000 annually, according to seminary officials.
[...snip]
The $6 million that will be raised for faculty chairs will not only attract professors with outstanding reputations, but the annual income stream will help the seminary's budget on an ongoing basis, according to the seminary, which currently has received a gift to endow one chair in homiletics. It plans to add at least two more chairs.
The St Paul Seminary School of Divinity plans to use $2 million that it raises to provide about $100,000 annually to support the lay students, who are studying for graduate degrees in the fields of pastoral studies, religious education, theology and divinity.
As the number of priests has declined, lay people lhave taken on greater responsibilities in parish work. Many pastors depend on them for help in the areas of education, pastoral care, music and church administration.
The $3 million earmarked to endow formation programs will provide an annual income of about $150,000 to underwrite a range of programs that address the "four pillars" of priestly formation developed by the US. Conference of Catholic Bishops, according to the seminary.
In addition to academic study, the pillars considt of human development, spiritual growth and pastoral formation.
To prepare seminarians for their ministry as pastors, for example, they must now become conversant in Spanish -- through language study and summer internships -- and become immersed in the cultures of their future parishioners.
[...snip]
Bolstered by seminarians from as far away as Colorado, Montana, Wyoming and Alaska, today's enrollment is 63 seminarians, up from its low point of 51 in 1993.
"There is room for 96," Msgr. Callaghan said. "More young men would enroll if the seminary had the financial aid to assist them." The Catholic Spirit, December 7, 2006 [No Internet link available]
What happened to The Catholic Spirit's Web Page?
.
About six months ago, the St Paul-Minneapolis Archdiocesan newspaper, The Catholic Spirit took down its web page for a re-design. At the same time, they announced a re-design of the printed edition too. A couple of months ago the printed version came out, niftily redesigned, easier to read, with more color and probably more satisfied subscribers and readers.
But the web page design project seems to be stuck in a time warp. About a month ago, they posted a few articles from the print version, but nothing has changed since then. Surely this isn't like some Defense Department project that will stick the parishioners for some humongous sum and no appreciable improvement in reliability or news coverage?
Another large diocese to our north also seems to be having problems learning how to post a version of their diocesan paper on line. They have a nice name which is great progress for them. But at what cost?
Does anybody out there have a clue as to what they are up to?
About six months ago, the St Paul-Minneapolis Archdiocesan newspaper, The Catholic Spirit took down its web page for a re-design. At the same time, they announced a re-design of the printed edition too. A couple of months ago the printed version came out, niftily redesigned, easier to read, with more color and probably more satisfied subscribers and readers.
But the web page design project seems to be stuck in a time warp. About a month ago, they posted a few articles from the print version, but nothing has changed since then. Surely this isn't like some Defense Department project that will stick the parishioners for some humongous sum and no appreciable improvement in reliability or news coverage?
Another large diocese to our north also seems to be having problems learning how to post a version of their diocesan paper on line. They have a nice name which is great progress for them. But at what cost?
Does anybody out there have a clue as to what they are up to?
Thursday, December 7, 2006
For Catholic Church, Vietnamese Are the New Irish
.
If you visit the Divine Word College, a tiny Catholic missionary school outside of Dubuque, Iowa, the conversations you will hear in its hallways will most likely not be carried out in English. Usually, they are in Vietnamese. So is the music played late at night in the school's cafeteria, when students are hungry for a bite.Vietnamese dominate this seminary. Forty-three out of its 67 students, about 2 out of 3, are Vietnamese."They are replacing the traditional Irish and Italian immigrants, who once provided a steady supply of priests in the States," says Len Uhal, National Vocation director, and vice president for recruitment. In his office, a map of the United States is covered with colorful thumbtacks representing potential students approached for recruitment. Many of those tacks mark Vietnamese communities. "We look to Asians, particularly Vietnamese immigrants to fill the quotas."In the last four decades, the number of priests in the United States has dropped 27 percent, to around 43,000, according to the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate at Georgetown University. And though Asian Americans comprise of just over 1 percent of the Catholic Church in the United States, they account for 12 percent of all Catholic seminary students nationwide. And the majority of those tend to be Vietnamese.In Orange County, home to the largest Vietnamese population outside of Vietnam, almost 15 percent of the Catholic priests are Vietnamese, a number that is rising. Last year, out of seven priests ordained in the county, three were Vietnamese. And four years ago, Vietnamese overseas celebrated when the Most Rev. Dominic Luong in Orange County became the first Vietnamese Bishop in the United States. [...snip] New American Media
If you visit the Divine Word College, a tiny Catholic missionary school outside of Dubuque, Iowa, the conversations you will hear in its hallways will most likely not be carried out in English. Usually, they are in Vietnamese. So is the music played late at night in the school's cafeteria, when students are hungry for a bite.Vietnamese dominate this seminary. Forty-three out of its 67 students, about 2 out of 3, are Vietnamese."They are replacing the traditional Irish and Italian immigrants, who once provided a steady supply of priests in the States," says Len Uhal, National Vocation director, and vice president for recruitment. In his office, a map of the United States is covered with colorful thumbtacks representing potential students approached for recruitment. Many of those tacks mark Vietnamese communities. "We look to Asians, particularly Vietnamese immigrants to fill the quotas."In the last four decades, the number of priests in the United States has dropped 27 percent, to around 43,000, according to the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate at Georgetown University. And though Asian Americans comprise of just over 1 percent of the Catholic Church in the United States, they account for 12 percent of all Catholic seminary students nationwide. And the majority of those tend to be Vietnamese.In Orange County, home to the largest Vietnamese population outside of Vietnam, almost 15 percent of the Catholic priests are Vietnamese, a number that is rising. Last year, out of seven priests ordained in the county, three were Vietnamese. And four years ago, Vietnamese overseas celebrated when the Most Rev. Dominic Luong in Orange County became the first Vietnamese Bishop in the United States. [...snip] New American Media
A ‘Culture of Vocations’ Brings Vitality to Saginaw Diocese
.
Bishop Robert Carlson’s success in developing priestly vocations in the Diocese of Sioux Falls, S.D., received national attention, and now he’s doing the same thing in Saginaw, Mich.
Seminarian Rich Budd, 25, knows exactly how to reach Bishop Robert Carlson if he has any questions or concerns. “On my cell phone — on speed dial — is the bishop’s cell phone number,” said Budd. “And there’s definitely been nights where I’ve had to call him.”
He noted that seminarians elsewhere are unsure if their bishop is as accessible. “We have a real personal relationship,” Budd. “Not every seminarian has that gift.”
Budd is one of 19 men from the Diocese of Saginaw who are discerning a call to the priesthood. That’s a big increase from just three years ago, and given Bishop Carlson’s emphasis, that comes as no surprise to Budd.
[...snip]
But he already had a reputation as being a bishop with a successful approach to vocations. When he became bishop of Sioux Falls, S.D., in 1995, the average age of priests in the diocese was 60. When he was appointed to Saginaw in 2005, that age had dropped to 48.6. By then, Sioux Falls had 25 seminarians, while Saginaw, with about the same number of Catholics at 135,000, had four.
[...snip]
Bishop Carlson has inaugurated a program to invite young men to consider the priesthood. Named after the first apostle that Jesus called, Operation Andrew holds dinners to allow young men a chance to discuss vocations with the bishop over dinner.
“We ask a priest to host a dinner. And we ask other priests in the area to invite any young men who are interested in attending,” said Mark Graveline, associate director of vocations for the diocese.
There have been three such dinners this year, one in the college town of Mount Pleasant, one in Midland and another in Saginaw. The diocese plans 12 such dinners for 2007.
[...snip] National Catholic Register
Bishop Robert Carlson’s success in developing priestly vocations in the Diocese of Sioux Falls, S.D., received national attention, and now he’s doing the same thing in Saginaw, Mich.
Seminarian Rich Budd, 25, knows exactly how to reach Bishop Robert Carlson if he has any questions or concerns. “On my cell phone — on speed dial — is the bishop’s cell phone number,” said Budd. “And there’s definitely been nights where I’ve had to call him.”
He noted that seminarians elsewhere are unsure if their bishop is as accessible. “We have a real personal relationship,” Budd. “Not every seminarian has that gift.”
Budd is one of 19 men from the Diocese of Saginaw who are discerning a call to the priesthood. That’s a big increase from just three years ago, and given Bishop Carlson’s emphasis, that comes as no surprise to Budd.
[...snip]
But he already had a reputation as being a bishop with a successful approach to vocations. When he became bishop of Sioux Falls, S.D., in 1995, the average age of priests in the diocese was 60. When he was appointed to Saginaw in 2005, that age had dropped to 48.6. By then, Sioux Falls had 25 seminarians, while Saginaw, with about the same number of Catholics at 135,000, had four.
[...snip]
Bishop Carlson has inaugurated a program to invite young men to consider the priesthood. Named after the first apostle that Jesus called, Operation Andrew holds dinners to allow young men a chance to discuss vocations with the bishop over dinner.
“We ask a priest to host a dinner. And we ask other priests in the area to invite any young men who are interested in attending,” said Mark Graveline, associate director of vocations for the diocese.
There have been three such dinners this year, one in the college town of Mount Pleasant, one in Midland and another in Saginaw. The diocese plans 12 such dinners for 2007.
[...snip] National Catholic Register
The Geriatric Gang of the Ir-Religious and the Disobedient of “Dignity USA” to Meet in Minneapolis, Masquerading as the “New Ways Ministry Symposium”
.
Only geezers are expected to be in attendance.
New Ways Ministry will sponsor a its Sixth National Symposium entitled "Outward Signs: Lesbian/Gay Catholics in a Sacramental Church," March 16-18, 2007, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The symposium will highlight the essential role the sacraments play in the lives of lesbian/gay Catholics and how we understand ourselves as an inclusive Church. The symposium is especially designed for Church personnel administrators, diocesan and parish leaders, counselors and spiritual directors, formation and vocation personnel, Church workers eager to understand lesbian/gay issues, lesbian/gay leaders and their families and friends.
[The event, which will take place over St Patrick's Day weekend, an excuse for much more than the normally expected frivolity, will be be headquartered at the Sheraton Bloomington Hotel on Normandale Boulevard].
Presenters in five plenary sessions will examine major sacramental themes.
Brian McNaught, a prominent gay activist, will address Baptism and the Experience of Coming Out. Designated “The godfather of gay diversity training” by The New York Times, McNaught, author of the book "Gay Issues in the Workplace", is the leading consultant on gay issues for corporate America.
Sister Margaret Farley, RSM, will speak about Matrimony and Same-Sex Relationships. She through her scholarship, pastoral leadership, and other activities, has helped to build bridges of justice and reconciliation between the Catholic Church and its gay/lesbian members. Sr. Margaret holds the Gilbert L. Stark Chair in Christian Ethics at Yale University Divinity School. She is a member of the Sisters of Mercy, Detroit Regional Community and has served on the faculty of Yale University Divinity School since 1971.
Fr. Richard McBrien, an ecclesiologist and well-known columnist, will analyze Ordination to the Priesthood and Gay Men. For some reason, McBrien is still allowed to teach at Notre Dame. In assessing McBrien's "understanding of contemporary theological insights," the Committee noted that many such are "admittedly of a hypothetical nature and some of which it seems difficult to reconcile with authoritative Catholic doctrine." [I think that an "ecclesiologist" is someone who takes responsibility for the vandalization of most of our churches these past 40 years].
Sister Helen Prejean, CSJ, will address Reconciliation, Liberation, and Lesbian/Gay People. She has become a leading American advocate for the abolition of the death penalty. [She must have "minored" in other subjects].
There will also be a panel of retired bishops to speak about Healing our Wounds and Building a Eucharistic Community, including:
Archbishop Francis Hurley, Archbishop of Anchorage, AK, from 1976 to 2001, when he resigned at age 74;
Bishop Leroy Matthiesen, Bishop of Amarillo, TX, from 1980 to 1997, when he resigned at age 75;
Bishop Joseph Sullivan, Auxiliary Bishop of Brooklyn, NY, from 1980 to 2005 when he retired at age 75.
A variety of individual focus sessions will occur twice during the weekend. Among the focus session speakers are:
Michael Bayly, Executive Director of Catholic Pastoral Committee on Sexual Minorities and organizer of blasphemous Rainbow events in the Archdiocese of St Paul-Minneapolis, on gay/lesbian parish ministry; He is currently believed to be in Australia, awaiting his green card approval.
Julie Madden, Member of St Joan of Arc Catholic Church, Minneapolis
on gay/lesbian parish ministry;
Sharon Casey, OP, on lesbian nuns: steps, stumble and strides;
Fran Ferder, FSPA, on sacraments, psychology and lesbian/gay people
Christine Gudorf on intersex and transgendered persons and the sacraments;
Diana Hayes on the sacrament of reconciliation and homophobia;
Luke Timothy Johnson on Scripture and homosexuality;
Anthony Kall, OFM Conv, on gay men in the priesthood and religious life;
Brenda Kirby on US Catholic attitudes toward homosexuality;
Daniel Maguire on conscience and same sex marriage
Gregory Maguire on gay parenting in a sacramental church.
Preceding the opening of the symposium, a special conference day will be held March 16, 9 am - 4 pm, for campus personnel, GLBT young adults, and parents of lesbian daughters or gay sons.
James Alison, a theologian from Great Britain, will address the theme "Faith and Coming Out" at the Friday conference day.
In addition to the host of speakers, the weekend will include table conversations, socials, open space, prayer services, and Eucharist.
[It is hoped and expected that local Catholics will be logging many hours of adoration time, saying plenty of Rosaries and offering up many of their Lentan penances to counteract this travesty to our Faith].
Hoping to Turn Back Clock To 1970
.
Heresy, Homosexuality, and Hubris
.
To Be the Words of the Day
Only geezers are expected to be in attendance.
New Ways Ministry will sponsor a its Sixth National Symposium entitled "Outward Signs: Lesbian/Gay Catholics in a Sacramental Church," March 16-18, 2007, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The symposium will highlight the essential role the sacraments play in the lives of lesbian/gay Catholics and how we understand ourselves as an inclusive Church. The symposium is especially designed for Church personnel administrators, diocesan and parish leaders, counselors and spiritual directors, formation and vocation personnel, Church workers eager to understand lesbian/gay issues, lesbian/gay leaders and their families and friends.
[The event, which will take place over St Patrick's Day weekend, an excuse for much more than the normally expected frivolity, will be be headquartered at the Sheraton Bloomington Hotel on Normandale Boulevard].
Presenters in five plenary sessions will examine major sacramental themes.
Brian McNaught, a prominent gay activist, will address Baptism and the Experience of Coming Out. Designated “The godfather of gay diversity training” by The New York Times, McNaught, author of the book "Gay Issues in the Workplace", is the leading consultant on gay issues for corporate America.
Sister Margaret Farley, RSM, will speak about Matrimony and Same-Sex Relationships. She through her scholarship, pastoral leadership, and other activities, has helped to build bridges of justice and reconciliation between the Catholic Church and its gay/lesbian members. Sr. Margaret holds the Gilbert L. Stark Chair in Christian Ethics at Yale University Divinity School. She is a member of the Sisters of Mercy, Detroit Regional Community and has served on the faculty of Yale University Divinity School since 1971.
Fr. Richard McBrien, an ecclesiologist and well-known columnist, will analyze Ordination to the Priesthood and Gay Men. For some reason, McBrien is still allowed to teach at Notre Dame. In assessing McBrien's "understanding of contemporary theological insights," the Committee noted that many such are "admittedly of a hypothetical nature and some of which it seems difficult to reconcile with authoritative Catholic doctrine." [I think that an "ecclesiologist" is someone who takes responsibility for the vandalization of most of our churches these past 40 years].
Sister Helen Prejean, CSJ, will address Reconciliation, Liberation, and Lesbian/Gay People. She has become a leading American advocate for the abolition of the death penalty. [She must have "minored" in other subjects].
There will also be a panel of retired bishops to speak about Healing our Wounds and Building a Eucharistic Community, including:
Archbishop Francis Hurley, Archbishop of Anchorage, AK, from 1976 to 2001, when he resigned at age 74;
Bishop Leroy Matthiesen, Bishop of Amarillo, TX, from 1980 to 1997, when he resigned at age 75;
Bishop Joseph Sullivan, Auxiliary Bishop of Brooklyn, NY, from 1980 to 2005 when he retired at age 75.
A variety of individual focus sessions will occur twice during the weekend. Among the focus session speakers are:
Michael Bayly, Executive Director of Catholic Pastoral Committee on Sexual Minorities and organizer of blasphemous Rainbow events in the Archdiocese of St Paul-Minneapolis, on gay/lesbian parish ministry; He is currently believed to be in Australia, awaiting his green card approval.
Julie Madden, Member of St Joan of Arc Catholic Church, Minneapolis
on gay/lesbian parish ministry;
Sharon Casey, OP, on lesbian nuns: steps, stumble and strides;
Fran Ferder, FSPA, on sacraments, psychology and lesbian/gay people
Christine Gudorf on intersex and transgendered persons and the sacraments;
Diana Hayes on the sacrament of reconciliation and homophobia;
Luke Timothy Johnson on Scripture and homosexuality;
Anthony Kall, OFM Conv, on gay men in the priesthood and religious life;
Brenda Kirby on US Catholic attitudes toward homosexuality;
Daniel Maguire on conscience and same sex marriage
Gregory Maguire on gay parenting in a sacramental church.
Preceding the opening of the symposium, a special conference day will be held March 16, 9 am - 4 pm, for campus personnel, GLBT young adults, and parents of lesbian daughters or gay sons.
James Alison, a theologian from Great Britain, will address the theme "Faith and Coming Out" at the Friday conference day.
In addition to the host of speakers, the weekend will include table conversations, socials, open space, prayer services, and Eucharist.
[It is hoped and expected that local Catholics will be logging many hours of adoration time, saying plenty of Rosaries and offering up many of their Lentan penances to counteract this travesty to our Faith].
St Scholastica Donors Gave Way More Than College Imagined
.
The College of St. Scholastica is ending its Imagine Tomorrow fundraising campaign six months early after raising $34.6 million.
That’s $3.6 million more than the campaign’s goal, CSS President Larry Goodwin said Wednesday morning in a news conference at the college.
“Imagine Tomorrow has already enhanced the St. Scholastica experience for our students of today, and its good effects will be felt for generations of students to come,” he said.
Students are the campaign’s main beneficiaries, Goodwin said.
The campaign will help, or has already helped, pay for 27 new endowed scholarships, improvements to Tower Hall, keeping the Science Center and other buildings technologically up to date, the establishment of a Catholic studies program and the construction of a $10 million, 63,000-square-foot wellness center.
[...lsnip]
In all, more than 7,000 individuals, foundations, businesses and nonprofit organizations made donations to the campaign, which runs through Dec. 31.
CSS announced Imagine Tomorrow, its largest-ever fundraising campaign, in June 2003, following 30 months of planning and quietly approaching major donors. Consultants told the school it could expect to raise about $20 million over six years.
But donors pledged almost $18 million before the school even made the campaign public.
“The Benedictine Sisters of St. Scholastica set the bar early with a $3 million gift,” Goodwin said.
With the excellent early results, the school decided to set a final goal of $31 million by June 30, 2007.
That goal was almost three times as large as the $10.75 million raised by the college’s last fundraising campaign, which concluded in July 1994. Duluth NewsTribune
The College of St. Scholastica is ending its Imagine Tomorrow fundraising campaign six months early after raising $34.6 million.
That’s $3.6 million more than the campaign’s goal, CSS President Larry Goodwin said Wednesday morning in a news conference at the college.
“Imagine Tomorrow has already enhanced the St. Scholastica experience for our students of today, and its good effects will be felt for generations of students to come,” he said.
Students are the campaign’s main beneficiaries, Goodwin said.
The campaign will help, or has already helped, pay for 27 new endowed scholarships, improvements to Tower Hall, keeping the Science Center and other buildings technologically up to date, the establishment of a Catholic studies program and the construction of a $10 million, 63,000-square-foot wellness center.
[...lsnip]
In all, more than 7,000 individuals, foundations, businesses and nonprofit organizations made donations to the campaign, which runs through Dec. 31.
CSS announced Imagine Tomorrow, its largest-ever fundraising campaign, in June 2003, following 30 months of planning and quietly approaching major donors. Consultants told the school it could expect to raise about $20 million over six years.
But donors pledged almost $18 million before the school even made the campaign public.
“The Benedictine Sisters of St. Scholastica set the bar early with a $3 million gift,” Goodwin said.
With the excellent early results, the school decided to set a final goal of $31 million by June 30, 2007.
That goal was almost three times as large as the $10.75 million raised by the college’s last fundraising campaign, which concluded in July 1994. Duluth NewsTribune
Wednesday, December 6, 2006
Catholic television programming steps up (on some public television stations).
.
In the weeks and months ahead, Catholics looking for quality television programming that suits their moral and social sensibilities need look no further than programming supplied by the Catholic Communication Campaign.
"Our motto is 'How the Good News Gets Around,'" said CCC executive producer Ellen McCloskey. And as winter begins to set in, TV viewers will be able to get both warmth and light from their set.
The first CCC project is "Picturing Mary," which is being offered to public TV stations nationwide in December. The hourlong documentary looks at how artists depicted Mary from centuries ago to more modern times. Because it's not on the national PBS schedule, viewers will have to be aggressive about checking their local listings — or calling their city's PBS affiliate — for dates and times.
"It's a very good companion to 'The Face: Jesus in Art,' which continues to air on public TV stations at Christmas and Easter," McCloskey said. Some stations, she added, plan on showing "The Face" and "Picturing Mary" back to back. She offered her hopes that patrons of the new movie "The Nativity Story" will be inclined to tune in to "Picturing Mary."
In January, those same public TV stations will be offered "Lives for Sale," produced by Maryknoll Productions. The documentary looks at the immigration issue but pays close attention to human trafficking. "Traffickers will encourage women, 'Come to America and I'll give you a job,'" McCloskey said, although the ruse doesn't become apparent until it is too late. The issue will get its own cinematic treatment come spring with the film "Trade," starring Kevin Kline.
In February, another public-TV documentary that got partial funding from the CCC will air on selected PBS stations in time for Black History Month. "Sisters of Selma" examines the role nuns, many of whom were in the St. Louis area, played in the civil rights struggles of 40 and more years ago in Selma, Ala.
"It's very, very powerful," McCloskey said. Not only does the program examine Catholic advocacy in civil rights, it also "addresses some of the changes we were going through in the Catholic Church at the time," she added.
"Many of the sisters — the women who marched at the time — are still alive," McCloskey said. "There's a lot of good archival footage. Then you see them (the sisters) on the screen in the present day, and they look the same."
Catholics will also get a triple treat if they're watching TV on Christmas Eve after their late local news. ABC, NBC and CBS will each broadcast Catholic-themed programs.
ABC's entry is a CCC production, "Celebrating Light and Hope," from the Archdiocese of Milwaukee, with Archbishop Timothy M. Dolan. CBS will air a Christmas Eve compilation of lessons and carols from St. Joseph Cathedral in Sioux Falls, S.D. It's the 10th anniversary of the program at the cathedral. While the show will contain the readings and hymns customary to the event, expect "a little more variety to it," McCloskey said. Florida Catholic
NBC, as it has for decades, will broadcast Christmas Midnight Mass from St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City, with U.S. Archbishop John P. Foley, head of the Pontifical Council for Social Communications, serving as a guide to the rituals in Rome. "Now if we could only get something on Fox," joked McCloskey.
On a more serious side, she said that with televangelists on the tube seemingly nonstop, "people ask where the Catholic Church is on television. Here, in this situation, you can say, 'Here's the Catholic Church. It's not as noticeable, perhaps, as a televangelist. But here, you have a documentary on the church and the arts ('Picturing Mary') and on the church and social activity — today ('Lives for Sale') and 40 years ago with civil rights ('Sisters of Selma').
"I hope we can do more."
In the weeks and months ahead, Catholics looking for quality television programming that suits their moral and social sensibilities need look no further than programming supplied by the Catholic Communication Campaign.
"Our motto is 'How the Good News Gets Around,'" said CCC executive producer Ellen McCloskey. And as winter begins to set in, TV viewers will be able to get both warmth and light from their set.
The first CCC project is "Picturing Mary," which is being offered to public TV stations nationwide in December. The hourlong documentary looks at how artists depicted Mary from centuries ago to more modern times. Because it's not on the national PBS schedule, viewers will have to be aggressive about checking their local listings — or calling their city's PBS affiliate — for dates and times.
"It's a very good companion to 'The Face: Jesus in Art,' which continues to air on public TV stations at Christmas and Easter," McCloskey said. Some stations, she added, plan on showing "The Face" and "Picturing Mary" back to back. She offered her hopes that patrons of the new movie "The Nativity Story" will be inclined to tune in to "Picturing Mary."
In January, those same public TV stations will be offered "Lives for Sale," produced by Maryknoll Productions. The documentary looks at the immigration issue but pays close attention to human trafficking. "Traffickers will encourage women, 'Come to America and I'll give you a job,'" McCloskey said, although the ruse doesn't become apparent until it is too late. The issue will get its own cinematic treatment come spring with the film "Trade," starring Kevin Kline.
In February, another public-TV documentary that got partial funding from the CCC will air on selected PBS stations in time for Black History Month. "Sisters of Selma" examines the role nuns, many of whom were in the St. Louis area, played in the civil rights struggles of 40 and more years ago in Selma, Ala.
"It's very, very powerful," McCloskey said. Not only does the program examine Catholic advocacy in civil rights, it also "addresses some of the changes we were going through in the Catholic Church at the time," she added.
"Many of the sisters — the women who marched at the time — are still alive," McCloskey said. "There's a lot of good archival footage. Then you see them (the sisters) on the screen in the present day, and they look the same."
Catholics will also get a triple treat if they're watching TV on Christmas Eve after their late local news. ABC, NBC and CBS will each broadcast Catholic-themed programs.
ABC's entry is a CCC production, "Celebrating Light and Hope," from the Archdiocese of Milwaukee, with Archbishop Timothy M. Dolan. CBS will air a Christmas Eve compilation of lessons and carols from St. Joseph Cathedral in Sioux Falls, S.D. It's the 10th anniversary of the program at the cathedral. While the show will contain the readings and hymns customary to the event, expect "a little more variety to it," McCloskey said. Florida Catholic
NBC, as it has for decades, will broadcast Christmas Midnight Mass from St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City, with U.S. Archbishop John P. Foley, head of the Pontifical Council for Social Communications, serving as a guide to the rituals in Rome. "Now if we could only get something on Fox," joked McCloskey.
On a more serious side, she said that with televangelists on the tube seemingly nonstop, "people ask where the Catholic Church is on television. Here, in this situation, you can say, 'Here's the Catholic Church. It's not as noticeable, perhaps, as a televangelist. But here, you have a documentary on the church and the arts ('Picturing Mary') and on the church and social activity — today ('Lives for Sale') and 40 years ago with civil rights ('Sisters of Selma').
"I hope we can do more."
Super Saturday: Rosary at Robbinsdale Abortion Site
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Saturday, December 9, 10:00 a.m. (second Saturday of the month) 3821 W. Broadway, next to the Robbinsdale Clinic
For years a group of faithful Catholics has been peacefully praying the Rosary next door to the Robbinsdale abortuary, to help end abortion, bring the mothers to the lifesaving decision to keep their babies, and change the hearts and minds of the abortion workers. It is working!
You can pray the Rosary with them every week, but thesecond Saturday of each month brings together a larger group of pray-ers. Invite your friends and families to Super Saturday and bring them to pray the Rosary, to save lives, and to change the world!
Saturday, December 9, 10:00 a.m. (second Saturday of the month) 3821 W. Broadway, next to the Robbinsdale Clinic
For years a group of faithful Catholics has been peacefully praying the Rosary next door to the Robbinsdale abortuary, to help end abortion, bring the mothers to the lifesaving decision to keep their babies, and change the hearts and minds of the abortion workers. It is working!
You can pray the Rosary with them every week, but thesecond Saturday of each month brings together a larger group of pray-ers. Invite your friends and families to Super Saturday and bring them to pray the Rosary, to save lives, and to change the world!
Sung High Mass at St Olaf for the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of Mary; Friday, 5:15 p.m.
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Special sung Mass for the SolemnityFriday, December 8, 5:15 p.m.
St. Olaf Catholic Church, 8th St. S. and 2nd Ave. S., Minneapolis
Fr. Mark Pavlik will celebrate a High Mass (sung Mass) for the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception with music by the St. Olaf Parish Choir, directed by Dr. Lynn Trappp. The music will include a medieval Marian chant and selections played on their Lively-Fulcher pipe organ.
Since nearby parking meters run until 6:00 p.m., you may wish to arrive early to park in the small lot, or, if possible, arrange a carpool.
For more information, visit the St. Olaf website or call(612) 332-7471.
Special sung Mass for the SolemnityFriday, December 8, 5:15 p.m.
St. Olaf Catholic Church, 8th St. S. and 2nd Ave. S., Minneapolis
Fr. Mark Pavlik will celebrate a High Mass (sung Mass) for the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception with music by the St. Olaf Parish Choir, directed by Dr. Lynn Trappp. The music will include a medieval Marian chant and selections played on their Lively-Fulcher pipe organ.
Since nearby parking meters run until 6:00 p.m., you may wish to arrive early to park in the small lot, or, if possible, arrange a carpool.
For more information, visit the St. Olaf website or call(612) 332-7471.
Mary Ann Kuharski to be Father Mitch Pacwa's Guest Tonight on EWTN Live
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Mary Ann Kuharski of Twin Cities based Pro Life Across America "The Billboard People", will be Father Mitch Pacwa's guest tonight on EWTN Live at 7:00 p.m. Central time. Check your local cable channel or Twin Cities UHF Channel 19.
The show will be repeated at Midnight and 8:00 a.m. Thursday, Central times.
Mary Ann Kuharski of Twin Cities based Pro Life Across America "The Billboard People", will be Father Mitch Pacwa's guest tonight on EWTN Live at 7:00 p.m. Central time. Check your local cable channel or Twin Cities UHF Channel 19.
The show will be repeated at Midnight and 8:00 a.m. Thursday, Central times.
Tuesday, December 5, 2006
On a More Cheery Note, Cathy_of_Alex Has Tagged Me With the Christmas Meme
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This is a combo entry covering various Christmases from over half a century.
1. Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate? It's always been egg nog, traditionally as an adult beverage with a shot of brandy and a healthy dollop of nutmeg. Howsomeever, one of my brother's who can't measure a shot accurately ran across a commercial Egg Nog under the name "Pennsylvania Dutch" in his favorite liquid refreshment emporium that comes pre-mixed and boy, is it good. we tossed out Mom's favorite recipe and have sworn allegiance to it ever since. With a healthy dollop of nutmeg added, of course!
2. Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree? Santa sled was always too full of items to put wrapping paper on them. And since he didn't use labels either, he very thoughtfully always piled lthem in five neat piles for we little ones so we wouldn't get confused and claim a toy that was not meant for us. He let Mom and Dad know whose was what. [I met a woman once whose gifts from Santa were always wrapped, and they always included her new clothes for the school year, three months late, but in the correct sizes and colors. She would spend all morning unwrapping things. Santa had no fear of a valuable item getting accidentally tossed with the trash, like a certain Dad I know].
3. Colored lights on tree/house or white? The Tree must be an unsheared balsam. No plantation trees for this guy. Sometimes we would have to use a drill to place branches where God made a mistake so that our tree would look better. You need lots of space between branches to hang tinsel, colored lights (large) and various ornaments collected over many years. Multi-colored lights on the outside of houses too are important. Although occasionally on a home that stands by itself, a single color of white or blue often looks nice, perhaps with red lights within wreaths at each window.
4. Do you hang mistletoe? NO. Not much smooching after about age five in our family. Lots of love, though but not expressed often enough.
5. When do you put your decorations up? Usually one week before and take them down two or three weeks after.
6. What is your favorite holiday dish (excluding dessert)? Dressing with giblet gravy!
7. Favorite Holiday memory as a child: Leaving out Coke and cookies for Santa. Actually, the shopping and the wrapping of my personal presents are the best part.
8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa? What truth? What are you talking about, Cathy?
9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve? We opened presents to each other and to Mom and Dad on Christmas Eve.
10. How do you decorate your Christmas tree? See 3 above. Tinsel was stored between the pages of magazines so it could be saved from year to year. Dating myself, tinsel during WWII was made of cellophane and I recall vividly hanging and saving cellophane tinsel in the mid 1950s. One of the exciting moments of each year would be the moment when we would turn the lights on to see if our old favorite ones would work. We inherited some "Japanese carbon lights" from my grandparents that dated back to the 1930s that still worked in the 60s. One of the miserablable moments of each year was working with the old series lights where when one went out, they all went out. It might be a half hour project getting the string to relight again. But that was part of the fun of Christmas.
11. Snow? Love it or Dread it? Love it! As long as I don't have to shovel it!
12. Can you ice skate? Yes. Can I skate well? I could! When a youth, we lived a block from the rink and skated three or four hours every day. But it did get tiresome constantly going in a circle.
13. Do you remember your favorite gift? Not really. Clothes would not have been it. Maybe an Erector Set with a small motor.
14. What's the most exciting thing about the Holidays for you? Midnight Masses, all the old favorite carols being sung at Church and at home, beautifully decorated homes, stores, etc.
15. What is your favorite Holiday Dessert? Pumpkin Pie and whipped cream. I take smaller slices these days.
16. What is your favorite holiday tradition? Being with family.
17. What tops your tree? There always has to be an angel atop any tree of mine. And it has to be a male angel. I don't know who banned Michael, Gabriel and Raphiael from Christmas! When the "Japanese Carbon lights" (see 10, above) still worked, we had a "star ball" with many white stars on a blue field that went right beneath the angel. Some of the other carbon lights were in the shape of a canary, a basket of fruit, a Japanese lantern, and others that I later purchased as Santa Claus and other figures.
18. Which do you prefer - giving or receiving? I can't imagine one with out the other. I always imagine that I have purchased the perfect gift. I wonder how many get exchanged? I never exchange. It just goes in a drawer or on the book shelf if I'm not crazy about it.
19. What is your favorite Christmas Song? Silent Night. I spent one Christmas Eve when I was in the Army in Germany at the little chapel where that song was first sung. It was quite small, about the size of one of our adoration chapels today. But there are probably fifty other Christmas songs that I love, too, including things like "All I Want for Christmas is my Two Front Teeth" which was first popular when I was at the age where I was losing my first set of teeth.
20. Candy Canes? Maybe one, for tradition's sake!
I tag The Ironic Catholic and the Hadley's at Our Word And I'm going to send this to my brother in California to have him tag his kids and hopefully get all their answers back.
This is a combo entry covering various Christmases from over half a century.
1. Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate? It's always been egg nog, traditionally as an adult beverage with a shot of brandy and a healthy dollop of nutmeg. Howsomeever, one of my brother's who can't measure a shot accurately ran across a commercial Egg Nog under the name "Pennsylvania Dutch" in his favorite liquid refreshment emporium that comes pre-mixed and boy, is it good. we tossed out Mom's favorite recipe and have sworn allegiance to it ever since. With a healthy dollop of nutmeg added, of course!
2. Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree? Santa sled was always too full of items to put wrapping paper on them. And since he didn't use labels either, he very thoughtfully always piled lthem in five neat piles for we little ones so we wouldn't get confused and claim a toy that was not meant for us. He let Mom and Dad know whose was what. [I met a woman once whose gifts from Santa were always wrapped, and they always included her new clothes for the school year, three months late, but in the correct sizes and colors. She would spend all morning unwrapping things. Santa had no fear of a valuable item getting accidentally tossed with the trash, like a certain Dad I know].
3. Colored lights on tree/house or white? The Tree must be an unsheared balsam. No plantation trees for this guy. Sometimes we would have to use a drill to place branches where God made a mistake so that our tree would look better. You need lots of space between branches to hang tinsel, colored lights (large) and various ornaments collected over many years. Multi-colored lights on the outside of houses too are important. Although occasionally on a home that stands by itself, a single color of white or blue often looks nice, perhaps with red lights within wreaths at each window.
4. Do you hang mistletoe? NO. Not much smooching after about age five in our family. Lots of love, though but not expressed often enough.
5. When do you put your decorations up? Usually one week before and take them down two or three weeks after.
6. What is your favorite holiday dish (excluding dessert)? Dressing with giblet gravy!
7. Favorite Holiday memory as a child: Leaving out Coke and cookies for Santa. Actually, the shopping and the wrapping of my personal presents are the best part.
8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa? What truth? What are you talking about, Cathy?
9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve? We opened presents to each other and to Mom and Dad on Christmas Eve.
10. How do you decorate your Christmas tree? See 3 above. Tinsel was stored between the pages of magazines so it could be saved from year to year. Dating myself, tinsel during WWII was made of cellophane and I recall vividly hanging and saving cellophane tinsel in the mid 1950s. One of the exciting moments of each year would be the moment when we would turn the lights on to see if our old favorite ones would work. We inherited some "Japanese carbon lights" from my grandparents that dated back to the 1930s that still worked in the 60s. One of the miserablable moments of each year was working with the old series lights where when one went out, they all went out. It might be a half hour project getting the string to relight again. But that was part of the fun of Christmas.
11. Snow? Love it or Dread it? Love it! As long as I don't have to shovel it!
12. Can you ice skate? Yes. Can I skate well? I could! When a youth, we lived a block from the rink and skated three or four hours every day. But it did get tiresome constantly going in a circle.
13. Do you remember your favorite gift? Not really. Clothes would not have been it. Maybe an Erector Set with a small motor.
14. What's the most exciting thing about the Holidays for you? Midnight Masses, all the old favorite carols being sung at Church and at home, beautifully decorated homes, stores, etc.
15. What is your favorite Holiday Dessert? Pumpkin Pie and whipped cream. I take smaller slices these days.
16. What is your favorite holiday tradition? Being with family.
17. What tops your tree? There always has to be an angel atop any tree of mine. And it has to be a male angel. I don't know who banned Michael, Gabriel and Raphiael from Christmas! When the "Japanese Carbon lights" (see 10, above) still worked, we had a "star ball" with many white stars on a blue field that went right beneath the angel. Some of the other carbon lights were in the shape of a canary, a basket of fruit, a Japanese lantern, and others that I later purchased as Santa Claus and other figures.
18. Which do you prefer - giving or receiving? I can't imagine one with out the other. I always imagine that I have purchased the perfect gift. I wonder how many get exchanged? I never exchange. It just goes in a drawer or on the book shelf if I'm not crazy about it.
19. What is your favorite Christmas Song? Silent Night. I spent one Christmas Eve when I was in the Army in Germany at the little chapel where that song was first sung. It was quite small, about the size of one of our adoration chapels today. But there are probably fifty other Christmas songs that I love, too, including things like "All I Want for Christmas is my Two Front Teeth" which was first popular when I was at the age where I was losing my first set of teeth.
20. Candy Canes? Maybe one, for tradition's sake!
I tag The Ironic Catholic and the Hadley's at Our Word And I'm going to send this to my brother in California to have him tag his kids and hopefully get all their answers back.
Monday, December 4, 2006
The liar, the witch, and the chancery
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Shy and retiring, Terry, who piously blogs at Abbey-Roads and who manages one of the best retail establishments in the Saintly City, came out of his shell the other day to post his musings on the play "The Pope and the Witch" that is planned to be performed at the University of Minnesota Theater in March.
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Shy and retiring, Terry, who piously blogs at Abbey-Roads and who manages one of the best retail establishments in the Saintly City, came out of his shell the other day to post his musings on the play "The Pope and the Witch" that is planned to be performed at the University of Minnesota Theater in March.
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Pictured, a scene from "The Pope and The Witch" from Yale University production.
In this production it appears as if the director has intended a John Paul II-like character to be suspended from his Parkinson's seated position as opposed to what the script calls for, that the Pope's character be in a frozen, "Crucifixion stroke state". If that was their intention here, the play is even more offensive, not to mention stupid. How offensive is this play to stroke victims and the physically disabled, not to mention the Catholic Church? People with disabilities should mount a protest, since the Catholic Church will not. (News director at WCCO - get Darcey Polen on this story right away!)
Today, Ray from "Stella Borealis" sent me an email with the Star Tribune's blog post on the play.
Other bloggers have been decrying the U of M's willingness to produce the play for weeks now. The plot, if you can call it that, sounded so stupid to me, I wondered why anyone would bother giving it any attention whatsoever. I thought, if it isn't this play, its the "Last Temptation of Christ", or the "Da Vinci Code" - who cares? Anti-Catholics are out there and they will continue to make art against the Church. After the initial outcry that gets the public's attention and money, they all fade into oblivion. (But what if this sschmear is being taught in our universities?)
So I read the Katherine Kersten post (http://www.startribune.com/blogs/kersten/) Ray forwarded, certain there must be something he wanted me to see. At the end is a choice little tidbit that made my fangs come out and I started to salivate. And that is where I came up with my post title, "The liar, the witch, and the chancery" - although I was hesitant, since there are some good people at the chancery. (Now if only the U would do a play with a title like that - yet local institutions are so much in each other's back pocket - they may need the Archdiocese some day - like now - when it's spokesman promise not to protest a profoundly anti-Catholic play.)
The last 3 paragraphs of the article are very good:
"You can almost hear the thrill in director Robert Rosen's bold "director's statement" about "The Pope and the Witch": "I chose this play because it's political." Rosen anticipates a backlash of unknown proportions, he told the Minnesota Daily. It's as if he is inviting reactionary forces -- perhaps dark figures a la "The Da Vinci Code" -- to persecute him for the sake of his oh-so-daring art.
Please excuse the yawn. We live in a world where Danish cartoonists are in hiding, Russian dissenters are gunned down or poisoned, and even naming your god can invite a gruesome death in some countries. In such a world, it's hard to be impressed with the guts it takes to dress witches as nuns at an American university.
Beating up on the pope is neither risky nor unpopular. In fact, you can face down the Catholic Church's "power structure" and not risk a scratch. To wit: Archdiocese spokesman Dennis McGrath has assured the U that the archdiocese has no plans to organize protests or call Catholics into action against it. "We have a great deal of admiration for the university, its arts and activities," McGrath said. "'There's not going to be any continued rancor that grows out of this." - Star Tribune
"We have a great deal of admiration for the university, its arts and activities," McGrath said.
"There's not going to be any continued rancor that grows out of this." Oh I'll just bet there will be buddy - you'll be feeling the brunt of that statement, you can count on it.
McGrath is the guy who more or less did a little "spin" regarding Fr. Altier's exile - "Desert Voice" has the nitty-gritty on that - or was it at Spero News? He also has done some diplomatic double speak over past Rainbow Sashers and the Cathedral confrontations.
Back to the play. An Italian playwright wrote it, so I was wondering if he had the Italian Christmas witch, Befana in mind. Not that it matters. I believe individual productions insert their own twist to the play, as is obvious by the different Universities that produced it. It's such a stupid premise though -
"So here's a preview of what we'll see next March, courtesy of Minnesota's flagship institution of higher learning.
"The pope is in crisis," explains the University of Minnesota's website. "100,000 poor, starving orphans from Third World countries are arriving in St. Peter's Square in what he believes is a plot by fanatical birth control activists to embarrass him and the church." Overwrought, the pope has a "crucifixion stroke," which freezes his arms in an outstretched position.
A witch cures the pope using hypnosis and a tractionlike device on which he is mounted as if in flight. The Vatican, we discover, is connected to a vast heroin-smuggling enterprise. As the play ends, the pope issues an encyclical announcing that he, like the witch, now supports drug legalization, and no longer sees "a condom as the devil's raincoat."
In case you missed the point, the U's website spells it out: "[I]t is easy for a rich church to rage against abortion when millions are born into poverty, and become victims of the drug trade, from which people under the Vatican's protection can fill their pockets." -Star Tribune
Did you get that? "[I]t is easy for a rich church to rage against abortion when millions are born into poverty, and become victims of the drug trade, from which people under the Vatican's protection can fill their pockets." That premise is too dumb even for the U of M to support. How can anyone defend such a stupid thought. Oh wait, I bet they teach along those lines don't they. I wonder if there is a crisis in academia?
I think there may be at our Chancery as well. Abbey-Roads
(Thanks Ray for ticking - I mean, tipping me off!:)
Thank YOU, Terry!
First Sunday of Advent Celebrated in Hmong at St Vincent De Paul in St Paul
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The Roamin' Roman, who enthralled thousands with her fabulous photography and comments during her year of study in Rome, got her degree from St Thomas and now is employed at a St Paul suburban parish. She brought a portion of her Confirmation class to St Vincent de Paul Parish in St Paul which is essentially a Hmong parish now, administered by Father Joseph Johnson, pastor of the Cathedral of St Paul. She commented on AmyWelborn's Open Book blog which regularly asks for descriptions jof liturgies and music from parishes attended by Open Books readers.
This was my first time at this parish for Sunday Mass, though I have been there for Holy Hours during the week. The parish is special in the area because it is the only one that ministers to our large Hmong population - it is also a very poor parish in a poor part of town, and has endured much in the past few years. It also happens to be the secondary parish for our Cathedral's rector (it was his parish assignment before being named rector, and after having worked so hard to build up this very suffering parish, he is still pastor there and it is now a mission parish supported by the Cathedral).
I went here today because I brought a few of my Confirmation students from my suburban parish into St. Paul to participate in a non-suburban Mass (ie, look, there are people out there other than Scandanavian blondes! :) and then to help out the Missionaries of Charity after Mass, teaching Sunday School to the Hmong kids. It was a great experience for them, I will be doing it monthly from now on!
So, this Sunday morning Mass was in both Hmong and English, which I think is typical here. Fr. does not speak Hmong very well, but there are two Hmong deacons. So the deacons' parts and most of the congregation's responses are in Hmong, while the propers and canon are in English. Fr. gives a homily in English and then the deacon gives it in Hmong.
The music was entirely in Hmong - so I have no idea what they sang but it sounded ok, a combo of accapella and organ. I didn't recognize any of the tunes though, and it was a 4 hymn sandwich - but then again, do they even have the antiphons translated into Hmong? (Yes, I know - Latin is the answer. Fr. loves Latin, but you can't build Rome in a day... it shall come one day soon I trust). No Gloria, you'll be happy to hear Fr. Fox!
The wreath was out already, I trust that Fr. blessed it at the Vigil Mass, lit (in proper order :) by a server before Mass.
Homily was great, as usual with this priest - some parts were particular to this parish culture, because the Hmong celebrated their New Year last weekend, and now the Church celebrates her New Year today, and then the civil New Year is a few weeks away still. After expanding on the readings a bit, he went back to the New Year theme and talked about New Year's resolutions - for holiness, not exercise! Daily prayer, Sunday Mass, etc etc. It was well done, interesting enough that even my Confirmation students paid pretty close attention (growl - the problem with youth today is that even the good ones need a fire lit under them!!)
Happy New Year everyone! :)
The Roamin' Roman, who enthralled thousands with her fabulous photography and comments during her year of study in Rome, got her degree from St Thomas and now is employed at a St Paul suburban parish. She brought a portion of her Confirmation class to St Vincent de Paul Parish in St Paul which is essentially a Hmong parish now, administered by Father Joseph Johnson, pastor of the Cathedral of St Paul. She commented on AmyWelborn's Open Book blog which regularly asks for descriptions jof liturgies and music from parishes attended by Open Books readers.
This was my first time at this parish for Sunday Mass, though I have been there for Holy Hours during the week. The parish is special in the area because it is the only one that ministers to our large Hmong population - it is also a very poor parish in a poor part of town, and has endured much in the past few years. It also happens to be the secondary parish for our Cathedral's rector (it was his parish assignment before being named rector, and after having worked so hard to build up this very suffering parish, he is still pastor there and it is now a mission parish supported by the Cathedral).
I went here today because I brought a few of my Confirmation students from my suburban parish into St. Paul to participate in a non-suburban Mass (ie, look, there are people out there other than Scandanavian blondes! :) and then to help out the Missionaries of Charity after Mass, teaching Sunday School to the Hmong kids. It was a great experience for them, I will be doing it monthly from now on!
So, this Sunday morning Mass was in both Hmong and English, which I think is typical here. Fr. does not speak Hmong very well, but there are two Hmong deacons. So the deacons' parts and most of the congregation's responses are in Hmong, while the propers and canon are in English. Fr. gives a homily in English and then the deacon gives it in Hmong.
The music was entirely in Hmong - so I have no idea what they sang but it sounded ok, a combo of accapella and organ. I didn't recognize any of the tunes though, and it was a 4 hymn sandwich - but then again, do they even have the antiphons translated into Hmong? (Yes, I know - Latin is the answer. Fr. loves Latin, but you can't build Rome in a day... it shall come one day soon I trust). No Gloria, you'll be happy to hear Fr. Fox!
The wreath was out already, I trust that Fr. blessed it at the Vigil Mass, lit (in proper order :) by a server before Mass.
Homily was great, as usual with this priest - some parts were particular to this parish culture, because the Hmong celebrated their New Year last weekend, and now the Church celebrates her New Year today, and then the civil New Year is a few weeks away still. After expanding on the readings a bit, he went back to the New Year theme and talked about New Year's resolutions - for holiness, not exercise! Daily prayer, Sunday Mass, etc etc. It was well done, interesting enough that even my Confirmation students paid pretty close attention (growl - the problem with youth today is that even the good ones need a fire lit under them!!)
Happy New Year everyone! :)
President and Board of Regents, U of MN
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President
Robert D. Bruininks
To contact the President's office with questions or comments: UPres@umn.edu
U.S. mail: 202 Morrill Hall100 Church Street S.E. University of Minnesota Minneapolis, MN 55455
Phone: 612-626-1616 Monday through Friday 7:45 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Fax: 612-625-3875
Regent Contact Information
Honorable Anthony R. Baraga, Chair 600 McNamara Alumni Center 200 Oak Street SE Minneapolis, MN 55455-2020 (218) 254-3559 baraga@umn.edu
Honorable Clyde E. Allen, Jr. 318 44th Avenue South Moorhead, MN 56560 (218) 236-7213 allen190@umn.edu
Honorable Peter Bell Metropolitan Council 390 North Robert St St. Paul, MN 55101-1626 (651) 602-1453 bell@umn.edu
Honorable Frank R. Berman 5331 Evanswood Lane Edina, MN 55436 (952) 936-9364 berman@umn.edu
Honorable Dallas Bohnsack 5550 Bohnsack Way New Prague, MN 56071 (952) 758-2140 bohnsack@umn.edu
Honorable John Frobenius 3008 Dunbar RoadSt. Cloud, MN 56301 (320) 255-9951 froben@umn.edu
Honorable Patricia S. Simmons, Vice Chair2505 Hillside Lane SW Rochester, MN 55902-1150(507) 284-9155 simmons@umn.edu
Honorable Steven D. Hunter 175 Aurora Avenue St. Paul, MN 55103 (651) 227-7647 sdhunter@umn.edu
Honorable David M. Larson Cargill, Incorporated 15615 McGinty Road W Wayzata, MN 55391(952) 742-7411 dmlarson@umn.edu
Honorable Cynthia Lesher Xcel Energy 414 Nicollet Mall / 5th Floor Minneapolis, MN 55401(612) 215-5356 leshe004@umn.edu
Honorable David R. Metzen 273 Salem Church Road Sunfish Lake, MN 55118 (651) 455-3020 metze002@umn.edu
Honorable Lakeesha K. Ransom Best Buy Corporate Campus 7601 Penn Avenue S Richfield, MN 55423-3645 (612) 291-2847 rans0015@umn.edu
A copy of all correspondence is appreciated by: Ann D. Cieslak Executive Director and Corporate Secretary 600 McNamara Alumni Center 200 Oak Street SE University of Minnesota Minneapolis, MN 55455-2020 cieslak@umn.edu
President
Robert D. Bruininks
To contact the President's office with questions or comments: UPres@umn.edu
U.S. mail: 202 Morrill Hall100 Church Street S.E. University of Minnesota Minneapolis, MN 55455
Phone: 612-626-1616 Monday through Friday 7:45 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Fax: 612-625-3875
Regent Contact Information
Honorable Anthony R. Baraga, Chair 600 McNamara Alumni Center 200 Oak Street SE Minneapolis, MN 55455-2020 (218) 254-3559 baraga@umn.edu
Honorable Clyde E. Allen, Jr. 318 44th Avenue South Moorhead, MN 56560 (218) 236-7213 allen190@umn.edu
Honorable Peter Bell Metropolitan Council 390 North Robert St St. Paul, MN 55101-1626 (651) 602-1453 bell@umn.edu
Honorable Frank R. Berman 5331 Evanswood Lane Edina, MN 55436 (952) 936-9364 berman@umn.edu
Honorable Dallas Bohnsack 5550 Bohnsack Way New Prague, MN 56071 (952) 758-2140 bohnsack@umn.edu
Honorable John Frobenius 3008 Dunbar RoadSt. Cloud, MN 56301 (320) 255-9951 froben@umn.edu
Honorable Patricia S. Simmons, Vice Chair2505 Hillside Lane SW Rochester, MN 55902-1150(507) 284-9155 simmons@umn.edu
Honorable Steven D. Hunter 175 Aurora Avenue St. Paul, MN 55103 (651) 227-7647 sdhunter@umn.edu
Honorable David M. Larson Cargill, Incorporated 15615 McGinty Road W Wayzata, MN 55391(952) 742-7411 dmlarson@umn.edu
Honorable Cynthia Lesher Xcel Energy 414 Nicollet Mall / 5th Floor Minneapolis, MN 55401(612) 215-5356 leshe004@umn.edu
Honorable David R. Metzen 273 Salem Church Road Sunfish Lake, MN 55118 (651) 455-3020 metze002@umn.edu
Honorable Lakeesha K. Ransom Best Buy Corporate Campus 7601 Penn Avenue S Richfield, MN 55423-3645 (612) 291-2847 rans0015@umn.edu
A copy of all correspondence is appreciated by: Ann D. Cieslak Executive Director and Corporate Secretary 600 McNamara Alumni Center 200 Oak Street SE University of Minnesota Minneapolis, MN 55455-2020 cieslak@umn.edu
This is what the StarTribune Really Thinks About the Catholic Church!
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Editorial:
Fo play is not faux pas by the U
Those who cry "Catholic bashing" doth protest too much.
Playwright Dario Fo would enjoy immensely the furor some have tried to create over a theater at the University of Minnesota staging his play, "The Pope and the Witch." Fo, you see, is the world's greatest clown, and this dispute would give him a great deal to chuckle about.
Fo, the 1997 Nobel laureate in literature, uses big, puffy comedic bats to batter at the doors of large institutions on behalf of the little guy. In this case his target is the Catholic Church. He makes serious, anarchistic points that he wishes the audience to ponder -- about justice, dignity, poverty, corruption, power -- but just as fervently he wants the audience to laugh. And it usually does. Previous stagings of "The Pope and the Witch" have won uniformly charmed reviews. The play, the reviewers agree, is a hoot.
Understandably, many Catholics don't find "The Pope and the Witch" funny at all. Which is why Archbishop Harry Flynn respectfully asked university President Robert Bruininks to cancel the play. Just as respectfully, and also correctly, Bruininks declined. Were Bruininks directing plays, he very well might have taken a pass on staging "The Pope and the Witch." But Bruininks' job is running a university, not evaluating plays. That's the province of Robert Rosen, a respected artistic director at Theatre de la June Leune who will direct "The Pope and the Witch." Given that neither Fo nor Rosen is a loony numskull, Bruininks had to allow the show to proceed. Interfering would have violated freedoms at the heart of a university's mission.
The Catholic Church is a large, wealthy and exceptionally powerful global corporation with a scandal-studded history and a practice of involving itself in the political and social affairs of many nations. Those factors make it an obvious and appropriate target for political satirist Fo. "The Pope and the Witch" has been around for 17 years and hasn't brought the church down yet. This staging at the University of Minnesota is unlikely to do that either. But it is likely to offer its audiences a great deal of laughter and penetrating questions about the uses and abuses of power. StarTribune
In 17 years this extremely un-funny play has been performed only a few times in the U.S., a tribute to the fact that most directors have far better taste than the virulently anti-Catholic Robert Rosen.
Editorial:
Fo play is not faux pas by the U
Those who cry "Catholic bashing" doth protest too much.
Playwright Dario Fo would enjoy immensely the furor some have tried to create over a theater at the University of Minnesota staging his play, "The Pope and the Witch." Fo, you see, is the world's greatest clown, and this dispute would give him a great deal to chuckle about.
Fo, the 1997 Nobel laureate in literature, uses big, puffy comedic bats to batter at the doors of large institutions on behalf of the little guy. In this case his target is the Catholic Church. He makes serious, anarchistic points that he wishes the audience to ponder -- about justice, dignity, poverty, corruption, power -- but just as fervently he wants the audience to laugh. And it usually does. Previous stagings of "The Pope and the Witch" have won uniformly charmed reviews. The play, the reviewers agree, is a hoot.
Understandably, many Catholics don't find "The Pope and the Witch" funny at all. Which is why Archbishop Harry Flynn respectfully asked university President Robert Bruininks to cancel the play. Just as respectfully, and also correctly, Bruininks declined. Were Bruininks directing plays, he very well might have taken a pass on staging "The Pope and the Witch." But Bruininks' job is running a university, not evaluating plays. That's the province of Robert Rosen, a respected artistic director at Theatre de la June Leune who will direct "The Pope and the Witch." Given that neither Fo nor Rosen is a loony numskull, Bruininks had to allow the show to proceed. Interfering would have violated freedoms at the heart of a university's mission.
The Catholic Church is a large, wealthy and exceptionally powerful global corporation with a scandal-studded history and a practice of involving itself in the political and social affairs of many nations. Those factors make it an obvious and appropriate target for political satirist Fo. "The Pope and the Witch" has been around for 17 years and hasn't brought the church down yet. This staging at the University of Minnesota is unlikely to do that either. But it is likely to offer its audiences a great deal of laughter and penetrating questions about the uses and abuses of power. StarTribune
In 17 years this extremely un-funny play has been performed only a few times in the U.S., a tribute to the fact that most directors have far better taste than the virulently anti-Catholic Robert Rosen.
Saturday, December 2, 2006
Bishop John Nienstedt of New Ulm Still Engaged in Battle with the U of Minnesota Over Sacrilegious "The Pope and The Witch" Play
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The University of Minnesota has scheduled a performance of the play “The Pope and the Witch,” beginning on March 1. This work portrays the Holy Father in a sacrilegious manner, describing him as a heroin-addicted paranoid. It is openly anti-Catholic in its intent, filled with hatred and prejudice.
University of Minnesota President Robert Bruininks defends his use of taxpayers’ money for this production by saying that this is an acknowledgement of “a very broad diversity of points of view.”
Yet I dare say he would not back a similar play which criticized a Jewish or Islamic religious leader. Readers must ask themselves if we want our state universities to be teaching our youth to be religious bigots against any denomination or creed. Do we want taxpayers’ money financing such displays of social prejudice and hatred?
I encourage readers to protest this production by contacting President Bruininks.
Bishop John C. Nienstedt [West Central Tribune, Willmar, MN]
The University of Minnesota has scheduled a performance of the play “The Pope and the Witch,” beginning on March 1. This work portrays the Holy Father in a sacrilegious manner, describing him as a heroin-addicted paranoid. It is openly anti-Catholic in its intent, filled with hatred and prejudice.
University of Minnesota President Robert Bruininks defends his use of taxpayers’ money for this production by saying that this is an acknowledgement of “a very broad diversity of points of view.”
Yet I dare say he would not back a similar play which criticized a Jewish or Islamic religious leader. Readers must ask themselves if we want our state universities to be teaching our youth to be religious bigots against any denomination or creed. Do we want taxpayers’ money financing such displays of social prejudice and hatred?
I encourage readers to protest this production by contacting President Bruininks.
Bishop John C. Nienstedt [West Central Tribune, Willmar, MN]
Has it been a while since you have been to Confession? Read what Father Larry Richards has to say.
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Tim Drake of St Joseph, MN, senior writer for National Catholic Register, interviews Father Larry Richards, Erie, PA, priest, pastor, public speaker and retreat leader, heard on Relevant Radio (1330 AM in the Twin Cities at 7:00 p.m. weekdays). Father Richards also is head of the TEC (To Encounter Christ) Teen retreat program in Erie.
Father Larry Richards wants to cut through the pessimism he finds in the Church.
His audiotapes on confession, the Mass and Truth have been heard by hundreds of thousands of people. A popular retreat leader and public speaker, he recently unveiled The Reason for Hope Foundation and website as a means to reach a wider audience with Christ’s message.
[...snip]
What led you to found the Reason for Our Hope Foundation?
My big thing has been evangelization. I’ve done over 700 retreats for high school students and conducted Teens Encountering Christ (TEC). I’ve been doing these since I was a deacon.
Some years back, one of my retreatants worked for the Mary Foundation. He asked if they could put one of my talks on tape. I didn’t know much about their work, but I agreed and we put out a tape on confession. That went really well, so we did another one on the Mass explained. Then we did one on Truth.
The foundation is an outgrowth from me doing retreats and my work with the Mary Foundation. We repackaged and updated the talks.
We use classical art on our products. Sometimes, we as Catholics don’t package things well. They look cheap. We want to give people something that looks really good and that they will appreciate. Our website is the top of the line. We want to meet people where they are.
With The Reason for Our Hope, we want to bring hope to the world.
Aside from your work with Reason for Our Hope, what else are you doing?
More than anything else, I hear confessions. You have to do so much healing of people who have been wounded by a bad experience with confession. I just did a retreat with 1,500 people. During the evening, we had 18 priests hearing confessions. We went until 12 or 1 a.m. and many of these people hadn’t been to confession in 20 to 30 years.
Would you describe the lack of people receiving this sacrament a crisis?
It’s a crisis because people haven’t been catechized. I taught at Cathedral Prep High School, an all-boys school, for eight years, and there was always a line for confession because I never sugarcoat sin. There is no condemnation in Christ Jesus. There is only conviction. God loves you and is willing to forgive you. People are afraid of sin because they are afraid of being condemned. Jesus died to forgive you. Let him forgive you, will you? Who doesn’t want to be saved? Jesus tells the woman caught in adultery, “Does anyone condemn you? Neither do I. Go and sin no more.” God calls us all to be holy. That’s the struggle.
There is such a need for people to go to confession, but they are afraid or they haven’t been catechized. There is a great freedom that comes from it. I tell people, when you go to a counselor, you pay, but when you go to confession, the priest gives you new life. [...Snip] Nat'l Catholic Register
The Reason For Our Hope Foundation
Tim Drake of St Joseph, MN, senior writer for National Catholic Register, interviews Father Larry Richards, Erie, PA, priest, pastor, public speaker and retreat leader, heard on Relevant Radio (1330 AM in the Twin Cities at 7:00 p.m. weekdays). Father Richards also is head of the TEC (To Encounter Christ) Teen retreat program in Erie.
Father Larry Richards wants to cut through the pessimism he finds in the Church.
His audiotapes on confession, the Mass and Truth have been heard by hundreds of thousands of people. A popular retreat leader and public speaker, he recently unveiled The Reason for Hope Foundation and website as a means to reach a wider audience with Christ’s message.
[...snip]
What led you to found the Reason for Our Hope Foundation?
My big thing has been evangelization. I’ve done over 700 retreats for high school students and conducted Teens Encountering Christ (TEC). I’ve been doing these since I was a deacon.
Some years back, one of my retreatants worked for the Mary Foundation. He asked if they could put one of my talks on tape. I didn’t know much about their work, but I agreed and we put out a tape on confession. That went really well, so we did another one on the Mass explained. Then we did one on Truth.
The foundation is an outgrowth from me doing retreats and my work with the Mary Foundation. We repackaged and updated the talks.
We use classical art on our products. Sometimes, we as Catholics don’t package things well. They look cheap. We want to give people something that looks really good and that they will appreciate. Our website is the top of the line. We want to meet people where they are.
With The Reason for Our Hope, we want to bring hope to the world.
Aside from your work with Reason for Our Hope, what else are you doing?
More than anything else, I hear confessions. You have to do so much healing of people who have been wounded by a bad experience with confession. I just did a retreat with 1,500 people. During the evening, we had 18 priests hearing confessions. We went until 12 or 1 a.m. and many of these people hadn’t been to confession in 20 to 30 years.
Would you describe the lack of people receiving this sacrament a crisis?
It’s a crisis because people haven’t been catechized. I taught at Cathedral Prep High School, an all-boys school, for eight years, and there was always a line for confession because I never sugarcoat sin. There is no condemnation in Christ Jesus. There is only conviction. God loves you and is willing to forgive you. People are afraid of sin because they are afraid of being condemned. Jesus died to forgive you. Let him forgive you, will you? Who doesn’t want to be saved? Jesus tells the woman caught in adultery, “Does anyone condemn you? Neither do I. Go and sin no more.” God calls us all to be holy. That’s the struggle.
There is such a need for people to go to confession, but they are afraid or they haven’t been catechized. There is a great freedom that comes from it. I tell people, when you go to a counselor, you pay, but when you go to confession, the priest gives you new life. [...Snip] Nat'l Catholic Register
The Reason For Our Hope Foundation
"Angry Atheists" Launch Frantic Attacks Against Christmas Attempting to Recover Previous Lost Momentum
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Tim Drake of St Joseph, MN, Senior Writer for the National Catholic Register, reports that Christmas is making a comeback in retail store advertising and behavior.
Shoppers are hearing something different in stores this year — “Merry Christmas.”
Christmas shoppers may be hearing something odd this year — clerks and cashiers wishing them a “Merry Christmas.”
Mega-retailer Wal-Mart has announced it will be using the word “Christmas” in its marketing efforts this year.
The decision bucks a trend in recent years to avoid saying “Merry Christmas” out of concern that someone in this multicultural society might be offended.
But there may be a counter-trend afoot. Macy’s, Target, Sears, Kohl’s and TJX Companies — which owns T.J. Maxx, Marshalls, HomeGoods, A.J. Wright, and Bob’s Stores — are once again recognizing “Christmas” as part of the “holidays.” [...snip] Nat'l Catholic Register
Tim Drake of St Joseph, MN, Senior Writer for the National Catholic Register, reports that Christmas is making a comeback in retail store advertising and behavior.
Shoppers are hearing something different in stores this year — “Merry Christmas.”
Christmas shoppers may be hearing something odd this year — clerks and cashiers wishing them a “Merry Christmas.”
Mega-retailer Wal-Mart has announced it will be using the word “Christmas” in its marketing efforts this year.
The decision bucks a trend in recent years to avoid saying “Merry Christmas” out of concern that someone in this multicultural society might be offended.
But there may be a counter-trend afoot. Macy’s, Target, Sears, Kohl’s and TJX Companies — which owns T.J. Maxx, Marshalls, HomeGoods, A.J. Wright, and Bob’s Stores — are once again recognizing “Christmas” as part of the “holidays.” [...snip] Nat'l Catholic Register
Friday, December 1, 2006
As part of the 'Friend or Foe Christmas Campaign', Liberty Counsel has created a "Naughty and Nice" checklist
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As part of the Friend or Foe Christmas Campaign, Liberty Counsel has created a "Naughty and Nice" checklist (available online in pdf or MSWord) which catalogs retailers who either censor or recognize Christmas. The list was compiled from information gathered by Liberty Counsel supporters. Read on:
http://www.lifesite.net/ldn/2006/nov/06112706.html
As part of the Friend or Foe Christmas Campaign, Liberty Counsel has created a "Naughty and Nice" checklist (available online in pdf or MSWord) which catalogs retailers who either censor or recognize Christmas. The list was compiled from information gathered by Liberty Counsel supporters. Read on:
http://www.lifesite.net/ldn/2006/nov/06112706.html
'He walked in tandem with Jesus' - - Sioux Falls Diocese says goodbye to its sixth leader
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Barb Crayne grew up in Minneapolis, where a young Rev. Paul Dudley officiated at her first communion and visited her high school. She hadn't seen him since her junior year at Regina High School when, in the late 1970s, he walked out of the board room at McKennan Hospital, where Crayne worked in administration."He walked up to my desk, and he called me by name, he remembered me," Crayne said. "I just looked at him, and I said, 'Father Dudley?' and he said, 'Yeah, Barb, it's me.' It was like an old-home reunion."
Crayne recalled her longtime connection to the Roman Catholic priest Thursday, just minutes before a memorial Mass at St. Joseph Cathedral for the man who led the Diocese of Sioux Falls from 1978 to 1995.
Bishop Dudley died Nov. 20 in a St. Paul hospital of a lung ailment. He was 79 and the sixth bishop of the Sioux Falls Diocese. His funeral service was Wednesday in St. Paul with burial in a Northfield, Minn., cemetery.
Bishop Paul Swain, who was ordained as the eighth leader of the Sioux Falls Diocese in October, said Wednesday's funeral Mass was a joy-filled event. He described it to the 150 people at the memorial Mass as "the celebration of a wonderful life lived well."
At the cemetery earlier in the week, one of the Bishop's nieces recalled a conversation that reflected his love of his adopted state, Swain told the Sioux Falls audience. She said, of Minnesota, "We're in God's country," and he replied, "No, God's country is South Dakota," Swain said. As a person, as a priest and as a bishop, he set a high standard, Bishop Swain said.
John Dudley, the last survivor of the bishop's nine siblings, described his brother as a great person."Everybody just thought so much of him," he said of his younger brother. Their parents were proud that two of their six sons chose religious life, but they never pushed them into the priesthood, John Dudley said. "I think he had the idea he wanted to be a priest when he was very, very young," said Pat Dudley, John's wife.
A display of photos outside the sanctuary at St. Joseph Cathedral showed black-and-white photos of a young priest and followed him as he matured. One showed him on the front steps of a trailer home on the Dudley family farm near Northfield, where he retired.
The Rev. Greg Tschakert, who serves a parish in Aberdeen, was the Bishop's chancellor. He described the late bishop as a man of prayer."In Bishop Paul Dudley, we recognize the image of Jesus, the servant priest," Father Tschakert said. "Like Jesus, Bishop Dudley was a man who based his whole life on a life of prayer. ... He took seriously the words of Jesus, and he walked in tandem with Jesus."
Bishop Dudley had a natural optimism and an upbeat attitude, but through his prayer, he lived a life of hope that sprang from a deeper place, said Father Tschakert, who was ordained by Bishop Dudley. He found the chancery stifling and welcomed any chance to visit the parish and participate in its life, Father Tschakert said. He had an immense capacity for patience. And when someone would criticize a priest, Bishop Dudley would point out that even the apostles weren't perfect, so it was unfair to expect that of priests.
He also was particularly supportive of life issues, such as the hungry, the homeless, the disabled, sick and elderly, Father Tschakert said. He helped establish agencies to help them. But perhaps his greatest passion was "concern for the unborn and the scandal of abortion," Father Tschakert said."He prayed fervently for a change in minds and hearts." Sioux Falls Argus Leader
Barb Crayne grew up in Minneapolis, where a young Rev. Paul Dudley officiated at her first communion and visited her high school. She hadn't seen him since her junior year at Regina High School when, in the late 1970s, he walked out of the board room at McKennan Hospital, where Crayne worked in administration."He walked up to my desk, and he called me by name, he remembered me," Crayne said. "I just looked at him, and I said, 'Father Dudley?' and he said, 'Yeah, Barb, it's me.' It was like an old-home reunion."
Crayne recalled her longtime connection to the Roman Catholic priest Thursday, just minutes before a memorial Mass at St. Joseph Cathedral for the man who led the Diocese of Sioux Falls from 1978 to 1995.
Bishop Dudley died Nov. 20 in a St. Paul hospital of a lung ailment. He was 79 and the sixth bishop of the Sioux Falls Diocese. His funeral service was Wednesday in St. Paul with burial in a Northfield, Minn., cemetery.
Bishop Paul Swain, who was ordained as the eighth leader of the Sioux Falls Diocese in October, said Wednesday's funeral Mass was a joy-filled event. He described it to the 150 people at the memorial Mass as "the celebration of a wonderful life lived well."
At the cemetery earlier in the week, one of the Bishop's nieces recalled a conversation that reflected his love of his adopted state, Swain told the Sioux Falls audience. She said, of Minnesota, "We're in God's country," and he replied, "No, God's country is South Dakota," Swain said. As a person, as a priest and as a bishop, he set a high standard, Bishop Swain said.
John Dudley, the last survivor of the bishop's nine siblings, described his brother as a great person."Everybody just thought so much of him," he said of his younger brother. Their parents were proud that two of their six sons chose religious life, but they never pushed them into the priesthood, John Dudley said. "I think he had the idea he wanted to be a priest when he was very, very young," said Pat Dudley, John's wife.
A display of photos outside the sanctuary at St. Joseph Cathedral showed black-and-white photos of a young priest and followed him as he matured. One showed him on the front steps of a trailer home on the Dudley family farm near Northfield, where he retired.
The Rev. Greg Tschakert, who serves a parish in Aberdeen, was the Bishop's chancellor. He described the late bishop as a man of prayer."In Bishop Paul Dudley, we recognize the image of Jesus, the servant priest," Father Tschakert said. "Like Jesus, Bishop Dudley was a man who based his whole life on a life of prayer. ... He took seriously the words of Jesus, and he walked in tandem with Jesus."
Bishop Dudley had a natural optimism and an upbeat attitude, but through his prayer, he lived a life of hope that sprang from a deeper place, said Father Tschakert, who was ordained by Bishop Dudley. He found the chancery stifling and welcomed any chance to visit the parish and participate in its life, Father Tschakert said. He had an immense capacity for patience. And when someone would criticize a priest, Bishop Dudley would point out that even the apostles weren't perfect, so it was unfair to expect that of priests.
He also was particularly supportive of life issues, such as the hungry, the homeless, the disabled, sick and elderly, Father Tschakert said. He helped establish agencies to help them. But perhaps his greatest passion was "concern for the unborn and the scandal of abortion," Father Tschakert said."He prayed fervently for a change in minds and hearts." Sioux Falls Argus Leader
Team Vianney and Theotokos Thursdays
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Thursday, December 7, 5:45 - 8:30 p.m. (first Thursday of the month)
St. John Vianney Seminary, 2115 Summit Ave., St. Paul
Sponsored by St. John Vianney Seminary and the Archdiocesan Vocations Office
Cost: FREE
Young men and women are invited to a new Catholic leadership and vocations movement held every month. It’s a great opportunity to meet with priests, seminarians, and religious. Everyone takes part in a Marian procession at 5:45 p.m., followed by pizza, pop, andfellowship. Then they meet in one of three groups for a hard-hittingtalk about the Catholic faith:
* Team Vianney: High school and college age men (9th grade+)
* Theotokos: High school and college age women (9th grade+)
* 8th grade and younger boys (accompanied by father or mother)
The evening concludes with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament and Mass. Parents and chaperones are welcome to attend.
For more information on Team Vianney, contact Fr. John Klockeman at jaklockeman@stthomas.edu or (651) 962-6832.For more information on Theotokos, contact Claire Roufs at the Vocations Office at (651) 962-6892.
Visit the websites of St. John Vianney Seminary and the Archdiocesan Vocations Office.
Thursday, December 7, 5:45 - 8:30 p.m. (first Thursday of the month)
St. John Vianney Seminary, 2115 Summit Ave., St. Paul
Sponsored by St. John Vianney Seminary and the Archdiocesan Vocations Office
Cost: FREE
Young men and women are invited to a new Catholic leadership and vocations movement held every month. It’s a great opportunity to meet with priests, seminarians, and religious. Everyone takes part in a Marian procession at 5:45 p.m., followed by pizza, pop, andfellowship. Then they meet in one of three groups for a hard-hittingtalk about the Catholic faith:
* Team Vianney: High school and college age men (9th grade+)
* Theotokos: High school and college age women (9th grade+)
* 8th grade and younger boys (accompanied by father or mother)
The evening concludes with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament and Mass. Parents and chaperones are welcome to attend.
For more information on Team Vianney, contact Fr. John Klockeman at jaklockeman@stthomas.edu or (651) 962-6832.For more information on Theotokos, contact Claire Roufs at the Vocations Office at (651) 962-6892.
Visit the websites of St. John Vianney Seminary and the Archdiocesan Vocations Office.
Franciscan Friars of the Renewal and Catholic League Team Up to Defend Christmas!
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Every December sees its fair share of "Grinches," those retailers, schools, websites, towns and municipalities who refuse to acknowledge Christmas as part of the "holiday season." These Christmas kill-joys are all around.
This Christmas, the Catholic League, Father Benedict Groeschel, C.F.R. and the other Franciscan Friars of the Renewal have joined up to put the spotlight on these folks. Should you notice one of these Grinches, please let us know. You may submit the details either by faxing the Catholic League at 212-371-3394, writing to us at 450 Seventh Avenue, New York, New York 10123 or by e-mailing catalyst@catholicleague.org.
The entry below was named Supreme Grinch of the Week on Friday, December 1:
A curmudgeon in Warwick, New York, for kicking up a fuss about a “Breakfast with Santa” fundraiser held each year by the PTA of Sanfordville Elementary School. One parent claimed that the popular fundraiser, which is held on a Saturday and is completely optional, is offensive to non-Christians because it includes a visit from Santa Claus.
In an attempt to accommodate the parent’s concerns, the PTA agreed to change the name of the event to “Winter Wonderland Breakfast” and incorporate Hanukkah traditions among the activities. This, however, did not satisfy the parent who still took issue with the fundraiser, saying “This shouldn’t be just for one person or two person’s religions…I wanted to represent all, not just a few.”
The superintendent of Warwick schools had amiably offered to don a Frosty the Snowman suit in an attempt to add more winter-themed characters to the breakfast. His generosity, though, was not rewarded. He received a letter from a local attorney charging that “The District should, at a minimum, modify the events to avoid potential litigation.” The superintendent later indicated that he should have seen the problem with a “Breakfast with Santa” earlier on.
Every December sees its fair share of "Grinches," those retailers, schools, websites, towns and municipalities who refuse to acknowledge Christmas as part of the "holiday season." These Christmas kill-joys are all around.
This Christmas, the Catholic League, Father Benedict Groeschel, C.F.R. and the other Franciscan Friars of the Renewal have joined up to put the spotlight on these folks. Should you notice one of these Grinches, please let us know. You may submit the details either by faxing the Catholic League at 212-371-3394, writing to us at 450 Seventh Avenue, New York, New York 10123 or by e-mailing catalyst@catholicleague.org.
The entry below was named Supreme Grinch of the Week on Friday, December 1:
A curmudgeon in Warwick, New York, for kicking up a fuss about a “Breakfast with Santa” fundraiser held each year by the PTA of Sanfordville Elementary School. One parent claimed that the popular fundraiser, which is held on a Saturday and is completely optional, is offensive to non-Christians because it includes a visit from Santa Claus.
In an attempt to accommodate the parent’s concerns, the PTA agreed to change the name of the event to “Winter Wonderland Breakfast” and incorporate Hanukkah traditions among the activities. This, however, did not satisfy the parent who still took issue with the fundraiser, saying “This shouldn’t be just for one person or two person’s religions…I wanted to represent all, not just a few.”
The superintendent of Warwick schools had amiably offered to don a Frosty the Snowman suit in an attempt to add more winter-themed characters to the breakfast. His generosity, though, was not rewarded. He received a letter from a local attorney charging that “The District should, at a minimum, modify the events to avoid potential litigation.” The superintendent later indicated that he should have seen the problem with a “Breakfast with Santa” earlier on.
How does "The Pope and the Witch" fit with the U of MN's professed prejudice stance?
.
Katherine Kersten, Star Tribune - - Next spring [March], the University of Minnesota will stage "The Pope and the Witch," by Italian radical playwright Dario Fo.
The play "features a paranoid, drug-addled pope, a witch in a nun's habit and a chaotic comedy of errors," according to a Star Tribune report. It depicts "the Vatican as corrupt," according to the Pioneer Press.
Apparently the comic genius of it all is lost on Archbishop Harry Flynn of the Catholic Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis. He has asked the U to consider withdrawing the play. But earlier this month, university President Robert Bruininks and the regents said the show must go on.
So here's a preview of what we'll see next March, courtesy of Minnesota's flagship institution of higher learning.
"The pope is in crisis," explains the University of Minnesota's website. "100,000 poor, starving orphans from Third World countries are arriving in St. Peter's Square in what he believes is a plot by fanatical birth control activists to embarrass him and the church." Overwrought, the pope has a "crucifixion stroke," which freezes his arms in an outstretched position.
A witch cures the pope using hypnosis and a tractionlike device on which he is mounted as if in flight. The Vatican, we discover, is connected to a vast heroin-smuggling enterprise. As the play ends, the pope issues an encyclical announcing that he, like the witch, now supports drug legalization, and no longer sees "a condom as the devil's raincoat."
In case you missed the point, the U's website spells it out: "[I]t is easy for a rich church to rage against abortion when millions are born into poverty, and become victims of the drug trade, from which people under the Vatican's protection can fill their pockets."
The U often trumpets its rejection of "racism, sexism, and other forms of prejudice, intolerance and harassment," as Bruininks put it in a letter to a critic of "The Pope and the Witch." But Fo's play depicts the leaders of the Catholic Church as grotesque criminal caricatures. So how did the play get by the "prejudice" monitors?
A higher principle is at work, it seems. The U can't be a "rigid censor," spokesman Daniel Wolter told the Star Tribune. "Academic freedom and the free exchange of ideas are the hallmarks of higher education," he said. Universities must be places where "very unpopular" views can be expressed, Bruininks proclaimed in his letter.
Such courage. What we see here is a dramatic example of academicians doing what some of them love best. That would be striking a pose, appearing to take a risky, moral stand (where there is no risk) to defend "art" -- in this case, Fo's sophomoric humor and tendentious politicizing -- from attack by bourgeois philistines.
You can almost hear the thrill in director Robert Rosen's bold "director's statement" about "The Pope and the Witch": "I chose this play because it's political." Rosen anticipates a backlash of unknown proportions, he told the Minnesota Daily. It's as if he is inviting reactionary forces -- perhaps dark figures a la "The Da Vinci Code" -- to persecute him for the sake of his oh-so-daring art.
Please excuse the yawn. We live in a world where Danish cartoonists are in hiding, Russian dissenters are gunned down or poisoned, and even naming your god can invite a gruesome death in some countries. In such a world, it's hard to be impressed with the guts it takes to dress witches as nuns at an American university.
Beating up on the pope is neither risky nor unpopular. In fact, you can face down the Catholic Church's "power structure" and not risk a scratch. To wit: Archdiocese spokesman Dennis McGrath has assured the U that the archdiocese has no plans to organize protests or call Catholics into action against it. "We have a great deal of admiration for the university, its arts and activities," McGrath said. "'There's not going to be any continued rancor that grows out of this."
Will the U follow "The Pope and the Witch" with a principled defense of truly unpopular views -- say, a sequel: "Mohammed and the Witch"?
Don't hold your breath. StarTribune - - Check out the over 150 comments on Ms. Kersten's StarTribune blog and contribute your own two cents (after you have commented on Stella Borealis).
I've read the published script of "The Pope and the Witch."
Robert Rosen says that he chose the play because it was "political." I say he chose the play because it was cheap and a method to get his name in the papers. The University's Theater Department sure doesn't get much publicity in this town. It used to be nationally known and respected.
Rosen probably got the rights to it along with many other plays that nobody wants to perform. The Pope and the Witch has been performed probably less than ten times in over ten years.
Qualified directors apparently, and I, don't find TP&TW the least bit funny. It is full of dated references to political personages such as Panama's Manuel Noriega and clerics such as France's schismatic Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre. There probably aren't 50 people at the U of MN who could name the reason for their being mentioned.
The only way that the slightest laugh could be created by performing this play would be by having accomplished physical comedians reminiscent of the Marx Brothers or the Three Stooges. But they could make the telephone book seem hysterically funny. One line of the entire play seemed to create a smile when I read it. And it was because of an obscure reference few non-Catholics would catch.
Because there are no lines in this piece of trash that a real comedian would be able to use.
That being the case, then, Rosen just wants to trash the Catholic Church and pretend that he is being brave. Already the Archdiocese has surrendered.
But this is not a case of Catholic faith or morals as determined by the Church's leadership. This is a brutal attack on the average Mary Grace and John Paul in the pew.
If Rosen thinks that average Catholics won't be having to more to say and do about this, well, maybe it will be time for me to burn my U of MN Diploma. For a start. I'd like to get my name in the newspapers too!
Katherine Kersten, Star Tribune - - Next spring [March], the University of Minnesota will stage "The Pope and the Witch," by Italian radical playwright Dario Fo.
The play "features a paranoid, drug-addled pope, a witch in a nun's habit and a chaotic comedy of errors," according to a Star Tribune report. It depicts "the Vatican as corrupt," according to the Pioneer Press.
Apparently the comic genius of it all is lost on Archbishop Harry Flynn of the Catholic Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis. He has asked the U to consider withdrawing the play. But earlier this month, university President Robert Bruininks and the regents said the show must go on.
So here's a preview of what we'll see next March, courtesy of Minnesota's flagship institution of higher learning.
"The pope is in crisis," explains the University of Minnesota's website. "100,000 poor, starving orphans from Third World countries are arriving in St. Peter's Square in what he believes is a plot by fanatical birth control activists to embarrass him and the church." Overwrought, the pope has a "crucifixion stroke," which freezes his arms in an outstretched position.
A witch cures the pope using hypnosis and a tractionlike device on which he is mounted as if in flight. The Vatican, we discover, is connected to a vast heroin-smuggling enterprise. As the play ends, the pope issues an encyclical announcing that he, like the witch, now supports drug legalization, and no longer sees "a condom as the devil's raincoat."
In case you missed the point, the U's website spells it out: "[I]t is easy for a rich church to rage against abortion when millions are born into poverty, and become victims of the drug trade, from which people under the Vatican's protection can fill their pockets."
The U often trumpets its rejection of "racism, sexism, and other forms of prejudice, intolerance and harassment," as Bruininks put it in a letter to a critic of "The Pope and the Witch." But Fo's play depicts the leaders of the Catholic Church as grotesque criminal caricatures. So how did the play get by the "prejudice" monitors?
A higher principle is at work, it seems. The U can't be a "rigid censor," spokesman Daniel Wolter told the Star Tribune. "Academic freedom and the free exchange of ideas are the hallmarks of higher education," he said. Universities must be places where "very unpopular" views can be expressed, Bruininks proclaimed in his letter.
Such courage. What we see here is a dramatic example of academicians doing what some of them love best. That would be striking a pose, appearing to take a risky, moral stand (where there is no risk) to defend "art" -- in this case, Fo's sophomoric humor and tendentious politicizing -- from attack by bourgeois philistines.
You can almost hear the thrill in director Robert Rosen's bold "director's statement" about "The Pope and the Witch": "I chose this play because it's political." Rosen anticipates a backlash of unknown proportions, he told the Minnesota Daily. It's as if he is inviting reactionary forces -- perhaps dark figures a la "The Da Vinci Code" -- to persecute him for the sake of his oh-so-daring art.
Please excuse the yawn. We live in a world where Danish cartoonists are in hiding, Russian dissenters are gunned down or poisoned, and even naming your god can invite a gruesome death in some countries. In such a world, it's hard to be impressed with the guts it takes to dress witches as nuns at an American university.
Beating up on the pope is neither risky nor unpopular. In fact, you can face down the Catholic Church's "power structure" and not risk a scratch. To wit: Archdiocese spokesman Dennis McGrath has assured the U that the archdiocese has no plans to organize protests or call Catholics into action against it. "We have a great deal of admiration for the university, its arts and activities," McGrath said. "'There's not going to be any continued rancor that grows out of this."
Will the U follow "The Pope and the Witch" with a principled defense of truly unpopular views -- say, a sequel: "Mohammed and the Witch"?
Don't hold your breath. StarTribune - - Check out the over 150 comments on Ms. Kersten's StarTribune blog and contribute your own two cents (after you have commented on Stella Borealis).
I've read the published script of "The Pope and the Witch."
Robert Rosen says that he chose the play because it was "political." I say he chose the play because it was cheap and a method to get his name in the papers. The University's Theater Department sure doesn't get much publicity in this town. It used to be nationally known and respected.
Rosen probably got the rights to it along with many other plays that nobody wants to perform. The Pope and the Witch has been performed probably less than ten times in over ten years.
Qualified directors apparently, and I, don't find TP&TW the least bit funny. It is full of dated references to political personages such as Panama's Manuel Noriega and clerics such as France's schismatic Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre. There probably aren't 50 people at the U of MN who could name the reason for their being mentioned.
The only way that the slightest laugh could be created by performing this play would be by having accomplished physical comedians reminiscent of the Marx Brothers or the Three Stooges. But they could make the telephone book seem hysterically funny. One line of the entire play seemed to create a smile when I read it. And it was because of an obscure reference few non-Catholics would catch.
Because there are no lines in this piece of trash that a real comedian would be able to use.
That being the case, then, Rosen just wants to trash the Catholic Church and pretend that he is being brave. Already the Archdiocese has surrendered.
But this is not a case of Catholic faith or morals as determined by the Church's leadership. This is a brutal attack on the average Mary Grace and John Paul in the pew.
If Rosen thinks that average Catholics won't be having to more to say and do about this, well, maybe it will be time for me to burn my U of MN Diploma. For a start. I'd like to get my name in the newspapers too!
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