JMJ. It doesn't take a mental giant (good thing for me!) to realize that there are differences and similarities between the Catholic Church and the various Protestant denominations--at last count over 35,000. The main similarity is that we all worship the Most Blessed Trinity, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.
The major difference--and it's a huge one--is that the the Protestant churches in their multiplicity worship God the way they want to. Catholics worship God the way HE wants to be worshipped. Houston, we have a problem. They do, anyway.
Tuesday, September 30, 2014
Sunday, September 7, 2014
"Thoughts On Dreams"
JMJ. I had a recurring dream when I was a kid. Maybe up until I was in my 20's or so. At least I know that I haven't had it in a long, long time. It takes place at night and I'm in the back seat of an fancy old touring car--the kind with a running board. We're going down an overgrown road deep in the woods and I'm being driven by a mobster and am flanked by mobsters in the back seat. After driving for some time without a sign of any other humans the car stops. I'm ordered out of the car and it's obvious that we're not going to build a fire and make s'mores.
All of a sudden there's a whooshing sound followed by a dull thunk and one of the goons has a hatchet growing from his chest. The other two Mafiosi are terrified and clamber back into the car and it roars off, leaving me behind. I look up into the trees and see a giant raccoon grinning at me holding another tomahawk and he's ready to fling it. I'm safe, thanks to this furry saviour. Now, dreams are supposed to be glimpses into our psyches but for the life of me I can't figure out a lesson from this dream other than maybe "don't get into an open touring car with mobsters for a spin out in the woods."
From what I was taught in nursing school we all dream but only remember them occasionally, varying from one person to another. I remember them fairly frequently but they're usually dull, dreams filled with frustration at a task I can't perform or I'm without pants in some public place. Ho-hum. About a month ago I had a dream that took my breath away and which I remember quite clearly. And in vivid colour to boot.
I find myself in a bright, shiny neighborhood (which I don't recognize 'cause it's kind of generic) and I'm beset by demons. Pretty soon other folks are, too, and for some reason everyone takes refuge in my house. There are demons at every orifice trying to gain entry and I just know somehow that the only thing that will save us is praying the Rosary. Most of the people with me are unfamiliar with it so I'm forced to teach it while praying it to prevent demonic entry. Finally everyone gets the hang of it when there is a loud banging at the front door. I opened the door and there stood the Evil One himself.
I begin praying the Rosary with renewed vengeance and am soon joined by all of the folks I'd taught. We know in our hearts that we will be safe and sure enough, the demons and Himself leave. We'd all been under the Blessed Mother's protection. Okay, this one is a no-brainer. Trust in the protective power of the Blessed Virgin Mary and Her favourite prayer, the holy Rosary and She will protect us from evil.
Several days later I'm in a hilly neighborhood development with all kinds of big houses. People are milling around, unaware of the danger they are in. Their quiet lives have been interrupted by the sudden appearance of a huge, ravening scorpion which is periodically devouring people but they have no idea when and where he will strike. Only I and a handful of others have detected that this is no ordinary alien creature but the Evil One himself. We go from home to home and person to person warning them of this spiritual danger but they remain unconvinced and slowly they are being eaten alive and lost.
To protect ourselves our small band prays constantly but we make only the occasional convert. Then the dream ends. I thought this one a lot and decided it represented the unawareness that the vast majority of folks have concerning the sinfulness of our society and that the Evil One lurks about waiting to pick us off. It is only the small minority of righteous who have any knowledge of danger and we find it very difficult to warn others. 'Nuff said.
I wasn't sure I shout publicise these descents into my subconscious but decided they might be of some value to others.
All of a sudden there's a whooshing sound followed by a dull thunk and one of the goons has a hatchet growing from his chest. The other two Mafiosi are terrified and clamber back into the car and it roars off, leaving me behind. I look up into the trees and see a giant raccoon grinning at me holding another tomahawk and he's ready to fling it. I'm safe, thanks to this furry saviour. Now, dreams are supposed to be glimpses into our psyches but for the life of me I can't figure out a lesson from this dream other than maybe "don't get into an open touring car with mobsters for a spin out in the woods."
From what I was taught in nursing school we all dream but only remember them occasionally, varying from one person to another. I remember them fairly frequently but they're usually dull, dreams filled with frustration at a task I can't perform or I'm without pants in some public place. Ho-hum. About a month ago I had a dream that took my breath away and which I remember quite clearly. And in vivid colour to boot.
I find myself in a bright, shiny neighborhood (which I don't recognize 'cause it's kind of generic) and I'm beset by demons. Pretty soon other folks are, too, and for some reason everyone takes refuge in my house. There are demons at every orifice trying to gain entry and I just know somehow that the only thing that will save us is praying the Rosary. Most of the people with me are unfamiliar with it so I'm forced to teach it while praying it to prevent demonic entry. Finally everyone gets the hang of it when there is a loud banging at the front door. I opened the door and there stood the Evil One himself.
I begin praying the Rosary with renewed vengeance and am soon joined by all of the folks I'd taught. We know in our hearts that we will be safe and sure enough, the demons and Himself leave. We'd all been under the Blessed Mother's protection. Okay, this one is a no-brainer. Trust in the protective power of the Blessed Virgin Mary and Her favourite prayer, the holy Rosary and She will protect us from evil.
Several days later I'm in a hilly neighborhood development with all kinds of big houses. People are milling around, unaware of the danger they are in. Their quiet lives have been interrupted by the sudden appearance of a huge, ravening scorpion which is periodically devouring people but they have no idea when and where he will strike. Only I and a handful of others have detected that this is no ordinary alien creature but the Evil One himself. We go from home to home and person to person warning them of this spiritual danger but they remain unconvinced and slowly they are being eaten alive and lost.
To protect ourselves our small band prays constantly but we make only the occasional convert. Then the dream ends. I thought this one a lot and decided it represented the unawareness that the vast majority of folks have concerning the sinfulness of our society and that the Evil One lurks about waiting to pick us off. It is only the small minority of righteous who have any knowledge of danger and we find it very difficult to warn others. 'Nuff said.
I wasn't sure I shout publicise these descents into my subconscious but decided they might be of some value to others.
Sunday, June 8, 2014
"Thoughts On the Mediatrix of all Grace"
JMJ. It's a fact that Protestants have little use for the Blessed Mother. If they think of Her at all it is to relegate Her to some dark, easily forgotten corner of the room, there to collect cobwebs and dust bunnies, at least until Christmas rolls around. Then they bring Her out, dust Her off, and set Her next to the manger in the stable, there to await the advent of our Lord.
What we Catholics await, though, (since we know better!) is the pronouncement of the doctrine of the Blessed Mother as Mediatrix of all Grace. I'm sure that there are profound theological arguments in favour of this doctrine but really, we can prove this is so with simple logic. I doubt if many, if any, Christians would deny that the most stupendous of all graces of all time, the Incarnation of the Second Person of the Holy Trinity, as a man, came to us through the express consent and intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Why then, I ask, should any lesser grace come to mankind in any other way?
What we Catholics await, though, (since we know better!) is the pronouncement of the doctrine of the Blessed Mother as Mediatrix of all Grace. I'm sure that there are profound theological arguments in favour of this doctrine but really, we can prove this is so with simple logic. I doubt if many, if any, Christians would deny that the most stupendous of all graces of all time, the Incarnation of the Second Person of the Holy Trinity, as a man, came to us through the express consent and intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Why then, I ask, should any lesser grace come to mankind in any other way?
Thursday, April 17, 2014
"Late at Night"
JMJ. Ever since I retired almost 3 years ago now, I find myself staying up a little bit later than I was ever wont to do before. The night seems so clean compared to the day--so few people out and about; so few distractions. So, right before bed I walk the dog.
Tully, one of our older ferrets, likes to help. Well, let me explain that. Tully loves to go outside. He also has an adrenal tumour which has caused him to lose most of the hair in his coat which leaves him looking pretty naked. He's beginning to grow some back, though, so he just looks like a ferret with a Mohawk of hair down his back and pinkish sueded skin elsewhere. So, since it's starting to get a little warmer now, I let him help walk Linus.
Which means that I put Linus' collar and leash on him and tuck Tully under my arm under my jacket and he keeps me company while we're out for Linus' late-night constitutional. Well, a couple of nights ago we had a full moon and a pretty clear sky. Now, normally I associate the moon in any of its phases as a symbol of our Blessed Mother since the light She provides us is not Her own but Her reflection of the light provided by Her Son.
That night however Linus, and Tully, and I were treated to a huge, resplendent orb hanging in the night sky with (thanks to the haze) an enormous halo around it. It looked for all the world like a pale golden monstrance without a pedestal and Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament shone down upon the three of us! Gotta take Tully out more often. He loves this almost as much as I do.
Tully, one of our older ferrets, likes to help. Well, let me explain that. Tully loves to go outside. He also has an adrenal tumour which has caused him to lose most of the hair in his coat which leaves him looking pretty naked. He's beginning to grow some back, though, so he just looks like a ferret with a Mohawk of hair down his back and pinkish sueded skin elsewhere. So, since it's starting to get a little warmer now, I let him help walk Linus.
Which means that I put Linus' collar and leash on him and tuck Tully under my arm under my jacket and he keeps me company while we're out for Linus' late-night constitutional. Well, a couple of nights ago we had a full moon and a pretty clear sky. Now, normally I associate the moon in any of its phases as a symbol of our Blessed Mother since the light She provides us is not Her own but Her reflection of the light provided by Her Son.
That night however Linus, and Tully, and I were treated to a huge, resplendent orb hanging in the night sky with (thanks to the haze) an enormous halo around it. It looked for all the world like a pale golden monstrance without a pedestal and Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament shone down upon the three of us! Gotta take Tully out more often. He loves this almost as much as I do.
Monday, February 10, 2014
"Enemy Territory"
JMJ. You can always tell when you're in enemy territory, behind enemy lines. Easy. Most everyone you encounter is trying to kill you. Usually, too, the enemy doesn't think like you, believe as you, nor often look like you do. A goodly number of years ago, as an example, the U.S. was embroiled in an unfriendly situation in Southeast Asia. The people shooting at us didn't look the least like us. They were generally shorter, more slender, had darker hair and skin, and shot at us. Simple.
I would not have wanted to be Vietnamese, though. I mean you have a chance meeting with someone in the jungle who looks somewhat similar to you. Now--do you shoot first or offer the guy a cigarette? See what I mean? Kind of an iffy situation and if you guess wrong you probably won't get a chance to guess again.
We've got a nasty, dirty, and dangerous situation going on in this country now. We're at war with folks who look just like us and are all around us--they may be family members, neighbors, and the enemy most assuredly runs our government. The good guys are surrounded by the enemy and we're behind their lines. They think nothing like us, believe in nothing that we do, hold nothing that we do sacred, and will cheerfully stick a knife between our ribs if given half a chance.
How can you know him? He will smile at you, he will say he has your best interests at heart. He wants to keep you safe and warm and healthy. You don't need your guns, there's nothing to fear, the nice doctor will make your baby go away. If you feel a cold breath on the back of your neck there's nothing to fear--no need for prayers to a God who's of no value. Is your spouse in a vegetative state? Don't worry, we'll put him or her out of our misery. Are your children acting up? We'll deal with them, too. Do you feel too depressed to go on any more? We've got a pill that will help you leave your mortal coils behind. We are the Culture of Death and we want to help you.
Yes. They've sold their souls for a crust of bread and a little bit of power. They surround us, they are the slaves of the Evil One and most don't even know they're doing his will. How do we fight back, how do we protect ourselves? It'll seem counterintuitive for someone who's been in a hot war zone but here it is...Don't hide, don't blend in, don't keep your values to yourself. Praise God every day. Pray for all you're worth. And whatever you do--don't despair. Many will die; WE may die. But we will triumph over them in the end.
You must know your enemy! Be stealthy, be wise, be very cautious. But rejoice. The victory is eventually ours.
I would not have wanted to be Vietnamese, though. I mean you have a chance meeting with someone in the jungle who looks somewhat similar to you. Now--do you shoot first or offer the guy a cigarette? See what I mean? Kind of an iffy situation and if you guess wrong you probably won't get a chance to guess again.
We've got a nasty, dirty, and dangerous situation going on in this country now. We're at war with folks who look just like us and are all around us--they may be family members, neighbors, and the enemy most assuredly runs our government. The good guys are surrounded by the enemy and we're behind their lines. They think nothing like us, believe in nothing that we do, hold nothing that we do sacred, and will cheerfully stick a knife between our ribs if given half a chance.
How can you know him? He will smile at you, he will say he has your best interests at heart. He wants to keep you safe and warm and healthy. You don't need your guns, there's nothing to fear, the nice doctor will make your baby go away. If you feel a cold breath on the back of your neck there's nothing to fear--no need for prayers to a God who's of no value. Is your spouse in a vegetative state? Don't worry, we'll put him or her out of our misery. Are your children acting up? We'll deal with them, too. Do you feel too depressed to go on any more? We've got a pill that will help you leave your mortal coils behind. We are the Culture of Death and we want to help you.
Yes. They've sold their souls for a crust of bread and a little bit of power. They surround us, they are the slaves of the Evil One and most don't even know they're doing his will. How do we fight back, how do we protect ourselves? It'll seem counterintuitive for someone who's been in a hot war zone but here it is...Don't hide, don't blend in, don't keep your values to yourself. Praise God every day. Pray for all you're worth. And whatever you do--don't despair. Many will die; WE may die. But we will triumph over them in the end.
You must know your enemy! Be stealthy, be wise, be very cautious. But rejoice. The victory is eventually ours.
Saturday, May 25, 2013
"Welcoming an Angel?"
JMJ.
I had to run into the hospital today. Just picked up a prescription, but I ran up to the endoscopy unit where I used to work to say "hi" to anyone still at work but everyone had gone home. I passed a guy in the hall who was walking out. Hobbling, actually. He was probably about forty but looked sixty and was barely mobile with a cane. He looked as if walking were the ultimate torture and I admit to wondering what had happened.
Well, some twenty minutes later I'd completed all I had to do and collected my car from the parking garage. I hadn't gone more than a quarter mile from the hospital when I passed this poor guy making his painful way. I had not but passed him when my dear guardian angel, Cornelius, kinda poked me in the ribs to get my attention so I turned the car around and headed back.
I don't normally make a point of picking up strangers but I doubted that even if he meant me ill that he could do anything serious. Frankly, he looked like a good stiff wind could blow him over. I hollered out the window to ask if he needed a ride and he nodded with apparent relief. He labouriously got in and stuck out his hand and introduced himself as Kevin. I asked how far he was going and it turned out to be right up the street. Turns out he'd been involved in a bad accident 8 1/2 years ago and he said most of his spine was either fused or metal.
I told him that my wife has M.S. and that I try to be aware of others with disabilities which was why I picked him up. As he was getting out of the car he told me how much he appreciated the lift and said, "I'm sorry about your wife." Now the reason for this story is not to make myself out to be someone I'm not but to point out how sometimes heaven puts folks in our paths as an opportunity for us to do something nice for others. Was he an angel I ministered to? I doubt it. I'm not that fortunate. But he COULD have been. I remember thinking how heavy his cross seemed to be and how heavy my wife's is. And then I thought, "If I want to see heavy, all I have to do is look at a crucifix."
I had to run into the hospital today. Just picked up a prescription, but I ran up to the endoscopy unit where I used to work to say "hi" to anyone still at work but everyone had gone home. I passed a guy in the hall who was walking out. Hobbling, actually. He was probably about forty but looked sixty and was barely mobile with a cane. He looked as if walking were the ultimate torture and I admit to wondering what had happened.
Well, some twenty minutes later I'd completed all I had to do and collected my car from the parking garage. I hadn't gone more than a quarter mile from the hospital when I passed this poor guy making his painful way. I had not but passed him when my dear guardian angel, Cornelius, kinda poked me in the ribs to get my attention so I turned the car around and headed back.
I don't normally make a point of picking up strangers but I doubted that even if he meant me ill that he could do anything serious. Frankly, he looked like a good stiff wind could blow him over. I hollered out the window to ask if he needed a ride and he nodded with apparent relief. He labouriously got in and stuck out his hand and introduced himself as Kevin. I asked how far he was going and it turned out to be right up the street. Turns out he'd been involved in a bad accident 8 1/2 years ago and he said most of his spine was either fused or metal.
I told him that my wife has M.S. and that I try to be aware of others with disabilities which was why I picked him up. As he was getting out of the car he told me how much he appreciated the lift and said, "I'm sorry about your wife." Now the reason for this story is not to make myself out to be someone I'm not but to point out how sometimes heaven puts folks in our paths as an opportunity for us to do something nice for others. Was he an angel I ministered to? I doubt it. I'm not that fortunate. But he COULD have been. I remember thinking how heavy his cross seemed to be and how heavy my wife's is. And then I thought, "If I want to see heavy, all I have to do is look at a crucifix."
"Walking the Dog"
JMJ.
Every night I do the same things--I give our boy Tully (the ferret) his medication, I put him in a carry-sack around my neck, and then he and I walk Linus. Linus gets to smell other dogs and water the trees, Tully gets a ride and the smell of the outdoors in his nose, and I get a little exercise. At midnight it's a peaceful and serene time.
It's been cloudy here in Berea the last few nights and generally rainy, too. Imagine my surprise when I exited the garage and was met with a comparatively well-lit neighborhood. I had completely forgotten the imminence of a full moon! There she was, hanging brightly above the branches of a nearby maple. The moon was so bright that the night was a supernal indigo. Like a lens will focus and burn a hole in a piece of paper during the day, the majesty of our Blessed Mother seemed to have burnt a huge hole in the very fabric of the sky.
From where She might be seated next to Her Son, She had focused and reflected His Divine Light upon a hushed world. Wow!
Every night I do the same things--I give our boy Tully (the ferret) his medication, I put him in a carry-sack around my neck, and then he and I walk Linus. Linus gets to smell other dogs and water the trees, Tully gets a ride and the smell of the outdoors in his nose, and I get a little exercise. At midnight it's a peaceful and serene time.
It's been cloudy here in Berea the last few nights and generally rainy, too. Imagine my surprise when I exited the garage and was met with a comparatively well-lit neighborhood. I had completely forgotten the imminence of a full moon! There she was, hanging brightly above the branches of a nearby maple. The moon was so bright that the night was a supernal indigo. Like a lens will focus and burn a hole in a piece of paper during the day, the majesty of our Blessed Mother seemed to have burnt a huge hole in the very fabric of the sky.
From where She might be seated next to Her Son, She had focused and reflected His Divine Light upon a hushed world. Wow!
Thursday, April 18, 2013
"It's Simple Arithmetic"
JMJ.
Pro-Choice
Pro-Gay Marriage
Pro-Euthanasia
Pro-Fetal Stem Cell Research
+ Pro-Infanticide
________________________
Anti-Christ
Pro-Choice
Pro-Gay Marriage
Pro-Euthanasia
Pro-Fetal Stem Cell Research
+ Pro-Infanticide
________________________
Anti-Christ
Sunday, March 3, 2013
"The True Presence Revisited"
JMJ. I was involved in something the other day and in the course thereof I had a thought. (I do that from time to time when I've nothing better to do. I try not to do it too often because it sometimes leaves a funny odour. Besides, I don't want my wife thinking I'm trying to get above myself.)
Anyway, since I was reading the Beginning Apologetics booklet dealing with explaining the True Presence of Christ in the Blessed Sacrament I imagined myself talking to a hypothetical Protestant about that topic. In my head I said something like, "Well, Mr. Protestant, you've told me that the words of our Lord at the Last Supper, 'Take, eat. This is my body which will be given up for you...this is the chalice of My Blood, the Blood, etc.' were only meant symbolically. I'm really not sure how you know this because Christ's words seem to be quite emphatic. You leave me in a pickle. I either believe you--or Jesus. There is no other choice really. Hmmm. I'm sorry, Mr. Protestant. I'm gonna have to go with the Lord on this one."
Anyway, since I was reading the Beginning Apologetics booklet dealing with explaining the True Presence of Christ in the Blessed Sacrament I imagined myself talking to a hypothetical Protestant about that topic. In my head I said something like, "Well, Mr. Protestant, you've told me that the words of our Lord at the Last Supper, 'Take, eat. This is my body which will be given up for you...this is the chalice of My Blood, the Blood, etc.' were only meant symbolically. I'm really not sure how you know this because Christ's words seem to be quite emphatic. You leave me in a pickle. I either believe you--or Jesus. There is no other choice really. Hmmm. I'm sorry, Mr. Protestant. I'm gonna have to go with the Lord on this one."
Wednesday, February 13, 2013
"Another Lent"
JMJ. Ash Wednesday. Another Lent is upon us. I'm reading a great book called Biblical Evidence For the Communion of Saints by Dave Armstrong. (Don't worry, I'll tie this all together in just a minute.) Anyway, not only does it discuss the doctrine itself, it also shows how efficacious it is to make use of our relations to those who are now either in heaven or purgatory.
For some reason known only to themselves, Protestants believe in praying for each other and to God but leave out those who have "fallen asleep in the Lord" and now are either with Him and seeing Him face to face or who are darned close to that blessed state. Go figure.
Sure, we can still pray directly to God, but just think about how much extra clout we gain by going to those closest to Him for their help.
St. James in his epistle tells us that the prayer of a righteous person is very effective. It stands to reason, doesn't it, that the more righteous that intercessor is, the more effective their prayer is, too. That's the whole idea behind prayers to our holy guardian angels and to the Blessed Mother. Who could possibly be more righteous than she? Taking that a step further, prayers to St Joseph and to the Blessed Apostles would be a great idea.
Ok. Here's the tie-in with Lent. God chose the Blessed Virgin out of millions of women to carry God Incarnate and to bring Him to us. Thus, She's the prime intercessor. And then He chose St. Joseph to be Her spouse and Jesus' adoptive father. (And don't forget that in Jewish society adoption carried the same strength that blood ties did.) Out of millions of men He chose Joseph, surely a supremely righteous man to guard them both.
Who else was chosen for a unique relationship with our Lord? Simon of Cyrene. Out of untold men, the Roman soldiers, guided I'm sure by the hand of the Holy Spirit, chose St. Simon of Cyrene. He (in my humble opinion) epitomises mankind's coming face to face with Divinity. Afraid, frightened...and finally awestruck.
Unfortunately I still have somewhat of the Protestant hidden in my genes. It's hard to over-come built-in habits. But I'm trying. That's why I have just a few favourite intercessors--our Blessed Mother (of course), St. Joseph, St. James, St. Martin de Porres, and Pope St. Pius X.
And St. Simon of Cyrene who stood in for me when He helped our Lord carry His cross. Pray for us, holy one!
For some reason known only to themselves, Protestants believe in praying for each other and to God but leave out those who have "fallen asleep in the Lord" and now are either with Him and seeing Him face to face or who are darned close to that blessed state. Go figure.
Sure, we can still pray directly to God, but just think about how much extra clout we gain by going to those closest to Him for their help.
St. James in his epistle tells us that the prayer of a righteous person is very effective. It stands to reason, doesn't it, that the more righteous that intercessor is, the more effective their prayer is, too. That's the whole idea behind prayers to our holy guardian angels and to the Blessed Mother. Who could possibly be more righteous than she? Taking that a step further, prayers to St Joseph and to the Blessed Apostles would be a great idea.
Ok. Here's the tie-in with Lent. God chose the Blessed Virgin out of millions of women to carry God Incarnate and to bring Him to us. Thus, She's the prime intercessor. And then He chose St. Joseph to be Her spouse and Jesus' adoptive father. (And don't forget that in Jewish society adoption carried the same strength that blood ties did.) Out of millions of men He chose Joseph, surely a supremely righteous man to guard them both.
Who else was chosen for a unique relationship with our Lord? Simon of Cyrene. Out of untold men, the Roman soldiers, guided I'm sure by the hand of the Holy Spirit, chose St. Simon of Cyrene. He (in my humble opinion) epitomises mankind's coming face to face with Divinity. Afraid, frightened...and finally awestruck.
Unfortunately I still have somewhat of the Protestant hidden in my genes. It's hard to over-come built-in habits. But I'm trying. That's why I have just a few favourite intercessors--our Blessed Mother (of course), St. Joseph, St. James, St. Martin de Porres, and Pope St. Pius X.
And St. Simon of Cyrene who stood in for me when He helped our Lord carry His cross. Pray for us, holy one!
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
"Lighthouse Catholic Media"
JMJ. I think I've mentioned Lighthouse Catholic Media before. If you haven't heard of them, they're a group which produces CD's of a variety of different speakers on a variety of different topics some of which are apologetics, the pro-life movement, faith journeys, etc. Plus they're available in both English and Spanish.
Two that I must heartily recommend are "Abba or Allah" by Scott Hahn and "Answering Atheism" by Ken Hensley. Both are outstanding and between them cover the two most dangerous forces in our modern society--militant atheism. Both CD's cover their topics well and are not only educational but also informative on how to deal with Muslims and atheists. Militant Islamism and atheism/secularism are serious matters and the chances of making a convert of either is slim but you DO have to know what they believe and why they believe it.
As in apologetics generally, it isn't necessary that the average joe become an authority on each and every religious topic. Most importantly you must realise in your bones that the Catholic Church DOES have all the truth and all the answers. All you have to do is become conversant on a few subjects and know that there's a darn good answer to any question someone throws at you!
Two that I must heartily recommend are "Abba or Allah" by Scott Hahn and "Answering Atheism" by Ken Hensley. Both are outstanding and between them cover the two most dangerous forces in our modern society--militant atheism. Both CD's cover their topics well and are not only educational but also informative on how to deal with Muslims and atheists. Militant Islamism and atheism/secularism are serious matters and the chances of making a convert of either is slim but you DO have to know what they believe and why they believe it.
As in apologetics generally, it isn't necessary that the average joe become an authority on each and every religious topic. Most importantly you must realise in your bones that the Catholic Church DOES have all the truth and all the answers. All you have to do is become conversant on a few subjects and know that there's a darn good answer to any question someone throws at you!
Saturday, January 19, 2013
"Pain"
JMJ. I can't believe it's been so many months since my last post! September? Holy cow. No wonder my friend Bonnie's been giving me dirty looks. Well, I have to admit that my last post had absolutely no effect on our last election. Surprise, surprise. Mostly I'm angry. Disappointed, yes. Amazed, certainly. But mostly just angry. Angry at my fellow Catholics, many of whom disregarded the clear instruction of the US bishops, angry at fellow Christians who couldn't care less about being part of the culture of death. And supremely angry at the black Christian community, almost all of them so devout. All of these folks who made themselves "anti-Christs" for the sake of electing a black president who would lick the boots of the labour unions and supply their luxuries to the large "you owe me" segment of our society.
I just realised that my greatest anger is reserved for the American people who have betrayed our Founding Fathers by sitting back in their warmth and satiety and have belched in their contentment as our federal government has eroded our Constitutional rights. Thanks to Obama and crew.
I just realised that my greatest anger is reserved for the American people who have betrayed our Founding Fathers by sitting back in their warmth and satiety and have belched in their contentment as our federal government has eroded our Constitutional rights. Thanks to Obama and crew.
Monday, September 10, 2012
"A Vote Heard 'Round the World"
JMJ. This November we will be voting , just as we have for over two hundred years, for men and women whom we feel would best fill the office for which they are running. This year is different, though. We have reached a crossroads and how we vote will determine not just our government but the soul of our nation and its very existence as we know it.
A science fiction character in a book by Robert Heinlein once said, "Always vote. There may not be someone you want to vote for but there is sure to be someone you want to vote against." So it is this year more than any other.
I will state it plainly since I have no government funds to lose: voting for a Democratic Party candidate is a vote against God. Jesus once said to let the little ones come to Him but I'm sure He never meant them to be scraped or suctioned out of their mothers' wombs in order to do so. Democratic delegates cheered giving women the right to abortion on demand in the name of "reproductive health!"
The Democratic delegates cheered the pricnciple of same-sex marriage, the idea that the government can ration health care to the elderly or handicapped, to the idea of euthanasia, and the necessity for fetal stem cell research. And when someone finally realised that the word "God" had not been included once in their statement of principles, they had to falsify a voice vote in favour of His inclusion. Including God was booed three times and He never received a majority vote!
The Republicans are not perfect--not by a long shot. But they included God some twenty times in their public statement and since life trumps all other concerns, their candidates are generally pro-life. How will you vote? Will you turn your back on Christ and His church or choose all that is right and moral?
A science fiction character in a book by Robert Heinlein once said, "Always vote. There may not be someone you want to vote for but there is sure to be someone you want to vote against." So it is this year more than any other.
I will state it plainly since I have no government funds to lose: voting for a Democratic Party candidate is a vote against God. Jesus once said to let the little ones come to Him but I'm sure He never meant them to be scraped or suctioned out of their mothers' wombs in order to do so. Democratic delegates cheered giving women the right to abortion on demand in the name of "reproductive health!"
The Democratic delegates cheered the pricnciple of same-sex marriage, the idea that the government can ration health care to the elderly or handicapped, to the idea of euthanasia, and the necessity for fetal stem cell research. And when someone finally realised that the word "God" had not been included once in their statement of principles, they had to falsify a voice vote in favour of His inclusion. Including God was booed three times and He never received a majority vote!
The Republicans are not perfect--not by a long shot. But they included God some twenty times in their public statement and since life trumps all other concerns, their candidates are generally pro-life. How will you vote? Will you turn your back on Christ and His church or choose all that is right and moral?
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
"Apologetics Resources"
JMJ. Well, I guess I've procrastinated long enough. Actually, I do it on purpose--I'm curious as to just how long my one loyal reader can go without seeing something new! She has the patience of Job. Not to mention that she's incredibly loyal and cute.
Okay, dear lady. Here goes. I'd like to preface my small list by saying that it is very difficult to compile a list of resources since everyone is coming from a different place and with different knowledge and needs. Be that as it may, accept the following for what it is--my humble suggestions.
First, one needs a love for our Church. Apologetics requires a lot of research and can be kinda time-consuming so there has to be a lot of motivation. One also needs an intense need to spread the Truth of our Church. I can honestly say that finding Jesus Christ in the one Church that He created has been the most important thing that's ever happened to me. I feel like a blind person who's miraculously been given sight. There's a whole new world to be discovered. Just make sure that what you do is done for our Lord, His Mother, and for the benefir of the one you're sharing the faith with. (I know--I ended a sentence with a preposition. Tough.)
One has also to be continually learning. But it doesn't have to be work! Don't ever let it become work. And don't feel you have to do a lot of memorisation. Okay. You need a copy of the Cathechism of the Catholic Church. Even before a Bible. One of the greatest things about the Catholic Mass is that so much of the Bible is read to us in the course of three years. No matter how good your Catholic education was, though, you will always need a reference that can refresh your memory quickly and easily about what the Church teaches. The folks you meet often have very distorted ideas of what Catholics believe and this is the resource you need to set them straight. As Archbishop Fulton Sheen once said, "Millions of people in America hate what they think Catholic Church believes but not fifty would hate what She really believes." (Or words to that effect.)
Another book I've found incredibly helpful is Karl Keating's Catholicism and Fundamentalism. It contains several chapters on prominent anti-Catholic notables and the works they've used to attack the Catholic Church. These are followed by several chapters which deal briefly with various subjects which separate Catholics from Protestants and how to answer those objections they bring up. DON'T FORGET: you don't have to do it all. All we have to do is plant a seed and let the Holy Ghost do the watering. Usually we won't know the outcome of the evangelisation that we do but occasionally the Lord gives us a peek at the good that we've done. I told a woman I'd worked with for years that I had joined the Catholic Church. (This was back in 1999.) Being a good Southern belle she was Protestant but said she'd been looking at the Catholic Church. We talked about a few items but I ended up giving her a Rosary, telling her that it's a great prayer and one which many Protestants are beginning to embrace. I'd completely forgotten this whole episode when she came up to me 6 or 7 years later and told me she joined RCIA and would be coming into the Church at Easter. She said that the Rosary I gave her had been a big turning point for her.
Now, I'm not saying this to toot my own horn but as an example of how we don't have to bear the whole burden. Let Heaven help, ok? Another written publication--or set, really--is the work of Jim Burnham and Steve Wood called Beginning Apologetics. There are ten booklets in the set and they deal with a number of specific topics and several with specific religions. They contain a lot of Biblical texts and are easy to follow and to refer to. They are highly recommended, even for one who is not a novice!
Become familiar with a group called Lighthouse Catholic Media. They specialise in low-cost MP3 downloads and CD's by a plethora of famous and familiar speakers on a plethora of topics. (Don't you just love the word "plethora?") Two titles I especially like are "7 Reasons to Be Catholic" by Peter Kreeft (a convert) and "Why I'm Catholic When I Could Be Anything Else" by Patrick Madrid (a cradle Catholic.) Anything by Scott Hahn is fantastic. He's forgotten more about the Catholic Church than most folks know. Before coming into the Church Scott spent a lot of time with then Monsignor (now Bishop) Fabian Bruskewitz for counseling. When Scott asked him if he would have to go through RCIA since Easter was two weeks away, Bishop Bruskewitz answered, "You could TEACH RCIA." Get his conversion story.
This brings to mind something that you can mention to your contacts. The Coming Home Network, founded by Marcus Grodi (himself a Protestant pastor and convert to Catholicism) has helped around six hundred Protestant ministers come into the Church, almost all of them giving up their sole source of livelihood and support of their families in order to follow Christ's call to come home. Must mean there's really something to Catholicism, eh?
I can't stress the use of common sense enough. It usually doesn't even require the memorisation of verses! How neat is that? For instance, if a fundamentalist calls the Catholic Church the "Whore of Babylon" (a favourite of theirs) ask why She's produced so many saints then. Another example? If someone gets in your face and insists his or her church is the true Church mention that the Catholic Church teaches the same doctrines now that She taught two hundred years ago. Two hundred years ago the Jehovah's Witnesses, the Seventh Day Adventists, the Mormons, and the Christian Scientists didn't even exist. Five hundred years ago, we taught the same thing we teach now and NONE of the Protestant churches existed!
A couple of final hints. You can either try to learn a smattering about a lot of different subjects or you can pick one doctrine, for example, the true presence of Christ in the Holy Eucharist and learn a whole lot about it. You'll find that apologetics is a lot like Lay's potato chips--you keep wanting more. Oh, and YOU pick the topic under discussion, don't let your friend do it. That way you can talk about what you know the most about. Finally, point out that if they find that the Catholic Church got it right in one doctrine, the chances are real good that they got it ALL right. Give the glory to God and give your friend your love and send them on their way with a CD to listen to or a brochure or book to read. It's fantastic When you find that you've been allowed by God to participate in the salvation of souls. They don't need us but it's great to feel wanted. Amen.
Okay, dear lady. Here goes. I'd like to preface my small list by saying that it is very difficult to compile a list of resources since everyone is coming from a different place and with different knowledge and needs. Be that as it may, accept the following for what it is--my humble suggestions.
First, one needs a love for our Church. Apologetics requires a lot of research and can be kinda time-consuming so there has to be a lot of motivation. One also needs an intense need to spread the Truth of our Church. I can honestly say that finding Jesus Christ in the one Church that He created has been the most important thing that's ever happened to me. I feel like a blind person who's miraculously been given sight. There's a whole new world to be discovered. Just make sure that what you do is done for our Lord, His Mother, and for the benefir of the one you're sharing the faith with. (I know--I ended a sentence with a preposition. Tough.)
One has also to be continually learning. But it doesn't have to be work! Don't ever let it become work. And don't feel you have to do a lot of memorisation. Okay. You need a copy of the Cathechism of the Catholic Church. Even before a Bible. One of the greatest things about the Catholic Mass is that so much of the Bible is read to us in the course of three years. No matter how good your Catholic education was, though, you will always need a reference that can refresh your memory quickly and easily about what the Church teaches. The folks you meet often have very distorted ideas of what Catholics believe and this is the resource you need to set them straight. As Archbishop Fulton Sheen once said, "Millions of people in America hate what they think Catholic Church believes but not fifty would hate what She really believes." (Or words to that effect.)
Another book I've found incredibly helpful is Karl Keating's Catholicism and Fundamentalism. It contains several chapters on prominent anti-Catholic notables and the works they've used to attack the Catholic Church. These are followed by several chapters which deal briefly with various subjects which separate Catholics from Protestants and how to answer those objections they bring up. DON'T FORGET: you don't have to do it all. All we have to do is plant a seed and let the Holy Ghost do the watering. Usually we won't know the outcome of the evangelisation that we do but occasionally the Lord gives us a peek at the good that we've done. I told a woman I'd worked with for years that I had joined the Catholic Church. (This was back in 1999.) Being a good Southern belle she was Protestant but said she'd been looking at the Catholic Church. We talked about a few items but I ended up giving her a Rosary, telling her that it's a great prayer and one which many Protestants are beginning to embrace. I'd completely forgotten this whole episode when she came up to me 6 or 7 years later and told me she joined RCIA and would be coming into the Church at Easter. She said that the Rosary I gave her had been a big turning point for her.
Now, I'm not saying this to toot my own horn but as an example of how we don't have to bear the whole burden. Let Heaven help, ok? Another written publication--or set, really--is the work of Jim Burnham and Steve Wood called Beginning Apologetics. There are ten booklets in the set and they deal with a number of specific topics and several with specific religions. They contain a lot of Biblical texts and are easy to follow and to refer to. They are highly recommended, even for one who is not a novice!
Become familiar with a group called Lighthouse Catholic Media. They specialise in low-cost MP3 downloads and CD's by a plethora of famous and familiar speakers on a plethora of topics. (Don't you just love the word "plethora?") Two titles I especially like are "7 Reasons to Be Catholic" by Peter Kreeft (a convert) and "Why I'm Catholic When I Could Be Anything Else" by Patrick Madrid (a cradle Catholic.) Anything by Scott Hahn is fantastic. He's forgotten more about the Catholic Church than most folks know. Before coming into the Church Scott spent a lot of time with then Monsignor (now Bishop) Fabian Bruskewitz for counseling. When Scott asked him if he would have to go through RCIA since Easter was two weeks away, Bishop Bruskewitz answered, "You could TEACH RCIA." Get his conversion story.
This brings to mind something that you can mention to your contacts. The Coming Home Network, founded by Marcus Grodi (himself a Protestant pastor and convert to Catholicism) has helped around six hundred Protestant ministers come into the Church, almost all of them giving up their sole source of livelihood and support of their families in order to follow Christ's call to come home. Must mean there's really something to Catholicism, eh?
I can't stress the use of common sense enough. It usually doesn't even require the memorisation of verses! How neat is that? For instance, if a fundamentalist calls the Catholic Church the "Whore of Babylon" (a favourite of theirs) ask why She's produced so many saints then. Another example? If someone gets in your face and insists his or her church is the true Church mention that the Catholic Church teaches the same doctrines now that She taught two hundred years ago. Two hundred years ago the Jehovah's Witnesses, the Seventh Day Adventists, the Mormons, and the Christian Scientists didn't even exist. Five hundred years ago, we taught the same thing we teach now and NONE of the Protestant churches existed!
A couple of final hints. You can either try to learn a smattering about a lot of different subjects or you can pick one doctrine, for example, the true presence of Christ in the Holy Eucharist and learn a whole lot about it. You'll find that apologetics is a lot like Lay's potato chips--you keep wanting more. Oh, and YOU pick the topic under discussion, don't let your friend do it. That way you can talk about what you know the most about. Finally, point out that if they find that the Catholic Church got it right in one doctrine, the chances are real good that they got it ALL right. Give the glory to God and give your friend your love and send them on their way with a CD to listen to or a brochure or book to read. It's fantastic When you find that you've been allowed by God to participate in the salvation of souls. They don't need us but it's great to feel wanted. Amen.
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
"The Truth as Magnet"
JMJ. We all know that the Gospel tells us that Jesus is "the Way and the Truth and the Life." The truth that He brought us drew many to Him like a magnet and, also like a magnet, repelled many, too. Not only did those teachings draw their ire, it drew their attacks, not only then but down through the centuries even to our present time. The Church Christ founded is called "the Whore of Babylon" and other scurrilous titles, some folks even denying that Catholics are Christian!
How does one combat these people? One must first and foremost remember that our detractors attack out of ignorance and prejudice. We must meet them with love, not only for their sakes but for ours, too--don't forget that Jesus commanded us to love even our enemies. (Don't worry. I know this is sometimes hard to do but after all, if He told us to do something patently impossible He must needs give us the wherewithal with which to do it!)
Second, we must meet our foes with prayer, commending them to the Holy Ghost since nothing can be accomplished without His help anyway. Third, we must educate ourselves; not everyone is destined for a job as a professional apologist, present company definitely included! Not only is the most time-consuming of the three "musts" but at the same time can be the most fun and rewarding. If Catholic education is ever lacking it does so in not teaching the "why" of what the Church teaches and believes. Not knowing this leaves us an easy target for the Protestants, Jehovah's Witnesses, and Mormons who come to our doors seeking to lure us into their particular errors.
Always remember that evangelism is a team effort--or should be, anyway. After all, one of the tenets of Catholicism is the "communion of souls." We are never alone, especially in such an important endeavour. Too, the resources at our disposal are myriad. They've only been accumulating for 2,000 years, you know. Our greatest Teacher, of course, is our Lord Jesus Christ. Sure He was a "pro" and had thousands of years of Scripture and Tradition at His fingertips when it came to teaching; but His favourite tactic seems to be the parable. Learn from Him and apply the same idea to your efforts! Does a neighbor deride the Catholic Church as "the Whore of Babylon?" Look him square in the eye and ask, "If that's so, why has she produced so many saints?"
The crux, as I'm sure you see, is to spark a doubt or a question. Find the chink in their armour and make a quick thrust. The two things to remember are that the Church has a really great answer for any question you're posed and that someone else is sure to have that answer even if you don't. In my next post I'll mention a few resources for you to tie into. In the meantime, start learning and have fun.
How does one combat these people? One must first and foremost remember that our detractors attack out of ignorance and prejudice. We must meet them with love, not only for their sakes but for ours, too--don't forget that Jesus commanded us to love even our enemies. (Don't worry. I know this is sometimes hard to do but after all, if He told us to do something patently impossible He must needs give us the wherewithal with which to do it!)
Second, we must meet our foes with prayer, commending them to the Holy Ghost since nothing can be accomplished without His help anyway. Third, we must educate ourselves; not everyone is destined for a job as a professional apologist, present company definitely included! Not only is the most time-consuming of the three "musts" but at the same time can be the most fun and rewarding. If Catholic education is ever lacking it does so in not teaching the "why" of what the Church teaches and believes. Not knowing this leaves us an easy target for the Protestants, Jehovah's Witnesses, and Mormons who come to our doors seeking to lure us into their particular errors.
Always remember that evangelism is a team effort--or should be, anyway. After all, one of the tenets of Catholicism is the "communion of souls." We are never alone, especially in such an important endeavour. Too, the resources at our disposal are myriad. They've only been accumulating for 2,000 years, you know. Our greatest Teacher, of course, is our Lord Jesus Christ. Sure He was a "pro" and had thousands of years of Scripture and Tradition at His fingertips when it came to teaching; but His favourite tactic seems to be the parable. Learn from Him and apply the same idea to your efforts! Does a neighbor deride the Catholic Church as "the Whore of Babylon?" Look him square in the eye and ask, "If that's so, why has she produced so many saints?"
The crux, as I'm sure you see, is to spark a doubt or a question. Find the chink in their armour and make a quick thrust. The two things to remember are that the Church has a really great answer for any question you're posed and that someone else is sure to have that answer even if you don't. In my next post I'll mention a few resources for you to tie into. In the meantime, start learning and have fun.
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
"Thoughts On the Blessed Mother"
JMJ. Did you ever have the feeling that folks weren't telling you everything? That you were always the last to find things out? When I was about 15 or 16, back in the middle ages, my dad came up to me and asked if I was all packed yet. "Packed for what?" sez I. "Well, we're leaving on vacation tomorrow and I wondered if you were all set to go." Of course I was crushed that no one had thought to let me know but Dad insisted that it had been the topic of discussion for about three weeks!
I was taking a shower one evening, (I try to do that once a week or so whether I need it or not for the sakes of my wife and friends,) and was cogitating on Our Lord on the cross when He gave us to His Holy Mother. Now it only seems like He's giving His Mother to John to take care of; naturally they had plenty of relatives who would've been only too happy to look after Her in His stead. No. He's actually doing two things much more magnificent than than the words would indicate.
In saying, "Woman, behold thy son" it dawned on me that He was giving Mary the entire human race to be Her spiritual children. Talk about responsibility! For thirty-three years She had faithfully tended and nurtured Him, finally turning him free to fulfill His destiny. She had proved Her humility, responsibility, and obedience. Now She had a whole bunch more kids to look after! And we? When He said, "Son, behold thy Mother" He was telling us that not only would She tend our skinned souls, put bandaids on hurt hearts but that WE OWE HER EVEN MORE OBEDIENCE AND LOVE THAN WE DO OUR OWN MOTHERS!
I can't help but wonder what our precious Lord thinks of those who ignore Her, who denigrate Her and the work He gave Her to do. After all, He obeyed His commandment and honoured His Mother. Being God, I'm sure He did so perfectly. Catholics just imitate Jesus!
Now of course I had to share this blinding insight with some friends at Tilma. Did they hang on my every word? They did not. One woman gave me a "duh" look and said, "Where have you been?" I still think it was kind of neat.
I was taking a shower one evening, (I try to do that once a week or so whether I need it or not for the sakes of my wife and friends,) and was cogitating on Our Lord on the cross when He gave us to His Holy Mother. Now it only seems like He's giving His Mother to John to take care of; naturally they had plenty of relatives who would've been only too happy to look after Her in His stead. No. He's actually doing two things much more magnificent than than the words would indicate.
In saying, "Woman, behold thy son" it dawned on me that He was giving Mary the entire human race to be Her spiritual children. Talk about responsibility! For thirty-three years She had faithfully tended and nurtured Him, finally turning him free to fulfill His destiny. She had proved Her humility, responsibility, and obedience. Now She had a whole bunch more kids to look after! And we? When He said, "Son, behold thy Mother" He was telling us that not only would She tend our skinned souls, put bandaids on hurt hearts but that WE OWE HER EVEN MORE OBEDIENCE AND LOVE THAN WE DO OUR OWN MOTHERS!
I can't help but wonder what our precious Lord thinks of those who ignore Her, who denigrate Her and the work He gave Her to do. After all, He obeyed His commandment and honoured His Mother. Being God, I'm sure He did so perfectly. Catholics just imitate Jesus!
Now of course I had to share this blinding insight with some friends at Tilma. Did they hang on my every word? They did not. One woman gave me a "duh" look and said, "Where have you been?" I still think it was kind of neat.
"Greed"
JMJ. I admit that I've been remiss. Mea culpa. It's been ages since I've posted a new blog and I know that my one, faithful reader is royally upset with me. It seems like I'm always apologising to her so I won't. Ha! Imagine my surprise when I tried to sign on and add to my scribblings and couldn't for the life of me figure out how! Not to mention the gratuitous ads that have suddenly appeared. I assure all (one) of you that I had absolutely nothing to do with it. I did finally figure out how to sign on (obviously) so I'll try to be a little more attentive but I'm honked that corporate greed has invaded even this free sight.
Thursday, May 10, 2012
"I'm Sorry"
JMJ. I think it was St. Peter who asked our Lord how many times we should forgive others and He answered seven times seventy. Or was it seventy times seven? Anyway, what He meant was "lots and lots." Just as important, though, to me is apologising. And we all find that eminently difficult to do.
I found something on the internet that I thought was kinda profound. It said that "apologising is not about admitting that you are wrong and the other person is right but that your relationship is more important than your ego."
Doesn't it just always boil down to pride?
I found something on the internet that I thought was kinda profound. It said that "apologising is not about admitting that you are wrong and the other person is right but that your relationship is more important than your ego."
Doesn't it just always boil down to pride?
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
"Just an Idle, Profound Thought"
JMJ. Caveat Lector--this is profound only because I think the Holy Ghost came up with it for me.
Motto for the day:
"Your mother didn't abort you--pass it on."
Motto for the day:
"Your mother didn't abort you--pass it on."
"A Divine Emergency"
JMJ. God has another emergency. A young woman is adamant about the need to abort her twin babies. Her name will be known only to God. Please offer your prayers and rosaries for the conversion of her life. Please help God bring to these helpless babies His Divine Love. And please pray for this young mother. The execution is set for March 26th.
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