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Small Group Resources
General information, resources, bibliographies and internet web links dealing the formation and implementation of Small Faith Communities.
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Find a Small Faith Community near you! Address and contact information for local communities can be found here...
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Links and Internet Resources
Fundamentalism: the real problem
...in any religion, by Richard P. McBrien
Priests question vow of celibacy
by Barney Zwartz. Jane Power's doctoral thesis is yet to be released.
Priestless Liturgies
...by Peter Kountz--but not one mention of married priests.
No More Priests, & Survey of Priests
"A straight line to no more priests," an editorial from the National Catholic Reporter, and "Priests responding to survey favor celibacy discussion," as reported in National Catholic Reporter... "If demographics is destiny, then the American priesthood is heading toward extinction."
The Mayonaisse Jar and the Coffee: A Modern Parable
When things in your life seem almost too much to handle, when 24 hours in a day are not enough, remember the mayonnaise jar and the coffee...
Oriah Mountain Dreamer
...from the book The Invitation published by HarperSanFrancisco, 1999.
All the Pope's Men
All the Pope's Men: The Inside Story of How the Vatican Really Thinks by John L. Allen, Jr. Reviewed by Andrew Greeley.
Review of the movie on Therese of Liseux
...by Debra Murphy. The "Therese" movie is as pretty as a Thomas Kinkaide painting--and that's the problem. Therese Martin's spiritual battle against ravenous emptiness was anything but pretty.
A Papacy's 26 Years of Unfulfilled Potential
...We shouldn't celebrate John Paul II's demeaning view of women and obsession with 'pelvic orthodoxy', by Daniel C. Maguire, professor of moral theology at Marquette Univeresity.
The Real Crisis
...More critical than any other issue facing us-who-are-the-Church is the ever worsening shortage of male celibate priests. By ARCC (Association for the Rights of Catholics in the Church).
Meditation on Darkness and Light
...from Alternative Workshop, by Jenny Baker, Jenny Brown and Doug Gay
Letters to American Bishops
1) from William J. Manseau to Archbishop O'Malley of Boston. An open letter on reinstating married priests.
2) from Paul Kelly to Bishops Malone and Gregory. Re: Bishops to vote on joining new ecumenical forum.
Retired bishop disputes 'exclusive language'
...Bishop Remi de Roo makes pastoral appeal for inclusive words, by Art Babych, Canadian Catholic News. October 21/04
We Forget...God's Grandeur
1) We Forget...The miraculous is not extraordinary / but the common mode of existence...by Wendell Berry; 2) God's Grandeur...The world is charged with the grandeur of God...by Gerard Manley Hopkins.
The Search for Enlightenment
A Christian Discovers the Buddhist Path. By Frederick A. Miller.
Two New Books on Bonhoeffer
1) The Bonhoeffer Phenomenon by Stephen R. Haynes; 2) Bonhoeffer as Martyr by Craig J. Slane
A Prayer for today
...O Cosmic Christ, by Mary Lou Kownacki, OSB
Lumen Gentium revisited
...by James Hanvey, S.J. The "universal call to holiness" was enshrined in the Second Vatican Council document on the Church. Still more change is required if that is to come about.
Article on the Synod in 2005
...on the Eucharist prepared by the bilingual Ottawa group called the "Manifeste Group".
Thomas Fox leaves NCR
A marvelous, unpredictable journey. By Thomas C. Fox, publisher of the National Catholic Reporter.
Keeping the Eucharistic Community Eucharistic
...by Joan Chittister, OSB. She supports Australian priests in their proposals for the 2005 Synod on the Eucharist.
Australian Priests Demand Right to Marry
...three articles by Linda Morris.
A New Dark Age Begins
The election of Benedict XVI sent a signal throughout the world that we are entering a new Dark Age. By Bishop John Shelby Spong.
God's Chance Creation
By George Coyne, SJ. The Vatican's chief astronomer says that science reflects God's infinite purpose.
A Modern Reading of the Beatitudes
Based on the Aramaic language of Jesus, and rendered concept-for-concept rather than word-for-word from Matthew 5:2-12. By Jim Burch.
Late Fee
Please register early. A late fee will apply for registrations after May 25...
Small Groups at the UpperRoom Ministries
Recognizing that small groups take many forms and serve many purposes, this link offers different resources for small groups, including accountabilty groups, study groups, intercessory prayer groups, and devotional materials for small groups.
Resources for Small Christian Communities
...including faith sharing, group activities, ice breakers, prayer, retreats for facilitators, small group development, and training of facilitators.
Reference List
Books, articles and references of helpful aids for Small Faith Communities...
DAILY SCRIPTURE READINGS
A Catholic web site for daily scripture readings,along with meditations and prayers. CHECK IT OUT!
North
South
East
West
Center for Liturgy
Readings, commentary, and music for Sunday liturgy from Center for Liturgy at St. Louis, University.
CALL TO ACTION'S SMALL FAITH COMMUNITIES DIRECTORY
Updated resource for small faith communities throughout the USA.
Liturgy Planner
Liturgical planner updated daily from Creighton University.
Corpus - National Capital Region (Canada)
The Changing Face of the Priesthood
by Donald B. Cozzens
The Changing Face of the Priesthood is a remarkable survey of the state of American Catholic clergy today. Donald Cozzens, the president-rector of Saint Mary Seminary and Graduate School of Theology in Cleveland, combines personal reflection and analysis of empirical data in this brief but wide-ranging book.
The Other Side of the Altar
by Paul E. Dinter
Paul Dinter gives the Catholic laity a rare view into the process of priestly formation. The Other Side of the Altar reveals many other aspects of the continuous formation of Catholic clergy.
Call to Action USA
Organized after US Bishops sponsored the original "Call to Action" gathering in 1976 in Detroit, this organization of over 20,000 has been advocating for justice in the church society for over twenty years. (www.cta-usa.org/)
Catholic Network for Women's Equality
Mission: to enable women to name their giftedness and from that awareness to effect structural change in the Church that reflects the mutuality and coresponsibility of women and men within that church. (www.cnwe.org/)
Corpus Canada
A faith community empowered by baptism in Jesus' Spirit, dedicated to renewal in the Church of ordained ministries open to married and unmarried men and women, and professing a vision of Church that includes all people who profess faith in Jesus Christ. (
www.corpuscanada.org/)
Corpus USA
Corpus is the Association for an Inclusive Priesthood, which rooted in a strong Eucharistic commitment, promotes an expanded and renewed priesthood of married and single men and women in the Catholic Church. (www.corpus.org/)
Final Declaration of Congress
...of the North Atlantic Federation for a Reformed Catholic Priesthood held in Wiesbaden, Germany August 26-29, 2004.
World Community of Christian Meditation
Mission: To communicate and nurture meditation as passed on through the teaching of John Main in the Christian tradition, in the spirit of serving the unity of all. (www.wccm.org/)
Gilead
...by Marilynne Robinson. This novel is set in 1956 when John Ames, a Congregational minister, has decided to write a long, memory-filled letter to his seven-year old son.
Final Declaration of the Sixth International Congress...
...of the International Federation of Married Catholic Priests.
Culture et Foi
Online e-Magazine highlighting current news and events pertaining to Culture and Faith. (www.culture-et-foi.com/)
FutureChurch
FutureChurch is an American coalition of parish-based Catholics who seek the full participation of all baptized Catholics in the life of the Church. (www.futurechurch.org)
Life4seekers
Life4seekers is for those people who want to improve their life and find a new sense of fulfilment, a fresh energy and joy of living. (www.life4seekers.co.uk/)
Married Priests Web Site
The Married Priests Web Site is designed to explore issues surrounding mandatory celibacy in the Roman Catholic Church. It also provides support for Catholic clergy who are struggling with mandatory celibacy and the loss of career and identity should they marry. (www.marriedpriests.org/)
Women's Ordination Conference
The website of the largest international website of Roman Catholic theologians who firmly believe that the discussion on women priests should be left open. (www.womenpriests.org/)
Vatican Website
Official website of the Holy See. (
www.vatican.va/)
Vatican II and Renewed Models of Priesthood
- by Jack Shea, president of the North Atlantic Federation. "The future of the Church will certainly hinge on the direction of the priestly ministry. An enormous consequence will depend on which route the "Renewed Priesthood" takes."
International Federation of Married Catholic Priests
The International Federation of Married Catholic Priests is constituted by the affiliation of organizations of married catholic priests, which have some national representation. The aim of the Federation is the renewal of the ministry of the Church. (www.marriedpriests.org/International_Federation/)
The Ultimate Cosmic Mystery
The Ultimate Cosmic Mystery: An Interpretation of "God" at the Edge of the Third Millennium, by Robert N.E. Haughton
Beyond Our Vision
Beyond Our Vision by Michael O'Kane. Reviewed by Jim Noonan.
The Church and Sexuality
"Church equates sexuality with sin: Does the Catholic Church need to revise its views on sexuality?" by Michael Murphy
Married Catholic Priests
Married Catholic Priests: Their History, Their Journeys, Their Reflections, a new book by Anthony P. Kowalski.
The Power of Laughter
While faith is not a laughing matter, a healthy Christian is able to laugh, according to Fr. Luciano Larivera, S.J. in an article in the Jesuit magazine Civilta Cattolica.
Burning Issues
Burning Issues for concerned Catholics in a changing Church. Inexpensive challenging pamphlets about ministry, authority, power, priesthood, contraception, papacy, ecumenism, spirituality, house groups, collaborative ministry, etc., building on the insights of the Second Vatican Council.
The Power of Prayer
The Power of Prayer--"Daddy's Empty Chair"
Vows of Silence, & More on Fr. Marcial Maciel
a) Vows of Silence by Jason Berry and Gerald Renner. The authors make their case against John Paul II. Reviewed by Kevin Cullen. b) More on Fr. Marcial Maciel by John L. Allen Jr.
The Reasons for Celibacy
...by Richard P McBrien. More interesting than the history of clerical celibacy are the reasons that have been offered to justify it.
The Passion of Fr. Stephen Somerville
...by Sheila M. Dabu, from The Toronto Star. Fr. Stephen Somerville, a Toronto area priest who was spiritual adviser to Mel Gibson during filming of the controversial movie
The Passion of the Christ has been suspended by Aloysius Cardinal Ambrozic for saying masses for a traditional Catholic splinter group.
Report on Congress of North Atlantic Federation
Report on the North Atlantic Federation for a Renewed Catholic Priesthood (NAFRCP) Congress in Wiesbaden, Germany, August 26-29, 2004 by D'Arcy Coulson, with photograph of the executive at bottom.
Thoughts on Closing Parishes
...in Boston and Portland in 2004, by Paul Kelly..
Mary Magdalene
...not a prostitute, but an apostle. By Joanne Struch.
Australian Priests on the 2005 Synod on the Eucharist
The National Council of Priests of Australia: Reflections on the Lineamenta.
North Atlantic Federation for a Renewed Catholic Priesthood
The North Atlantic Federation for a Renewed Catholic Priesthood is one of several International Federations of married Catholic priests, motivated by a desire to be of service to the Christian community which is now suffering from a grave crisis of a shortage of priests. (
www.renewedpriesthood.org) In 2008 this organization became the International Federation for a Renewed Catholic Ministry.
A Christmas Story
Transformed into beings of heat and light. By Tom Harpur.
Into the Dark with God: A Christmas Meditation
...on the Incarnation, for a Troubled World. By Hans Urs von Balthasar.
Peace Seeds
...from twelve religious traditions.
Sacred Presence: In Search of the New Story
By Robert C. Wild. On the new tidal wave in theology: the necessity of reinterpreting the now incontrovertible findings of "the new cosmology". Reviewed by Ted Schmidt.
God, the Tsunami, and Human Generosity
Where was God in the Tsunami? And where were human beings? Political and Theological Reflections by Rabbi Michael Lerner.
Charter of L'Arche
...founded forty years ago - in 1964 - by Jean Vanier and Fr. Thomas Philippe.
Maurice Sullivan's Grace at Christmas Party 2005
"The View from Heaven: A Christmas Reflection."
Meister Eckhart: living without a 'why'
...by James McFadden, taken from Spirituality (May-June 2003), a publication of the Irish Dominicans.
Celibacy is a Rule that the Catholic Church Can and Should Change
...by Dr. Muriel Porter, an Anglican laywoman writing in the magazine The Age.
Faith That Dares to Speak
...by Donald Cozzens. Reviewed by David Gibson.
Priests In Love
Priests in Love: Catholic Clergy and Their Intimate Friendships by Jane Anderson.
The Priest Who Couldn't Cheat
...Life Beyond the Roman Collar by Hank Mattimore. Reviewed by Jim Noonan.
A Solution to the Priest Shortage
By Danielle Kinkel and John Kinkel. Boston Globe Op Ed Page.
The Terrible Love of War
...by James Hillman. The renowned Jungian analyst has come to understand war's passion as a mythical state of being that drives combatants to extremes of inhumanity and devastation, with applications to the war in Iraq.
Merton Gets Tossed from New Catechism
...victim of latest round over who gets to decide what's Catholic. By Deborah Halter.
A Profile of Fintan Kilbride
...winner of the Marion Tyrell Award of Merit for 2005 of the Ontario English Catholic Teachers Association.
An Interview with Diarmuid O'Murchu
The Social Edge Interview: Social Psychologist, Author, and Priest Diarmuid O'Murchu, by Gerry McCarthy.
Romero Lives Among His People
...25 years after his murder, the archbishop is still an inspiration.
"Attention Must Be Paid"
An overview of his life and work on the death of American playwirght Arthur Miller. By Leo J. Donovan.
Teilhard de Chardin: A Holy Man & Lover of the World
...Reflections on the 50th Anniversary of His Death. By Thomas M. King.
Life Begins Anew
...First Days of Spring. A Meditation for Easter.
B--ARCHIVE (Click on the titles below, or go to this section in the website: www.ca.renewedpriesthood.org)
ENTRIES FROM FEBRUARY 2005 TO DECEMBER 2011:
Editor of Jesuits' America Magazine Forced to Resign
...under Vatican pressure. By Tom Roberts and John L. Allen, Jr. From the National Catholic Reporter, May 6, 2005.
A--NEW (Click on the titles below, or go to this section in the website: www.ca.renewedpriesthood.org)
ENTRIES FOR JANUARY 2012:
Celibacy and the Rediscovery of the Androgyne
...by Diarmuid O'Murchu. As found on O'Murchu's website at:
www.diarmuid13.com
A--NEW (Click on the titles below, or go to this section in the website: www.ca.renewedpriesthood.org)
ENTRIES FOR JANUARY 2012 :
A--REALLY NEW (Click on the titles below, or go to this section in the website: www.ca.renewedpriesthood.org)
ENTRIES FOR JANUARY 2012:
B--ARCHIVE (Click on the titles below, or go to this section in the website: www.ca.renewedpriesthood.org)
ENTRIES FROM FEBRUARY 2005 TO DECEMBER 2011:
Articles on Two Giant Theologians
1) Yves-Marie Congar, O.P., by Peter J. Bernardi; and 2) Joseph Fuchs, S.J., by James F.Keenan, S.J. From America, Vol. 192, No. 12 (April 4, 2005).
Crisis in the Catholic Church:
...The Pope's Contradictions. By Hans Kung.
The Power of Frailty: A Papal Plus
Reflections occasioned by the imminent death of Pope John Paul the Second. By Joan Chittister, OSB.
Catholics in America:
...A Restive People under Pope John Paul II. By Laurie Goodstein. From the New York Times.
Relapsed Catholic
A religion blog by Kathy Seidle of Toronto, Canada. Contains daily news items and many interesting links. (
www.relapsedcatholic.com/)
How Will History Judge John Paul?
Gregory Baum says his conservatism on sexual ethics created a new gap between the Catholic Church and other Christian churches. But John Paul II was also a radical on peace issues, and thought wars were evil.
John Paul II's Mixed Legacy
John Paul II was a brave, holy man. But his authoritarian style--especially on sexual doctrines--polarized the Church. By Andrew Greeley.
The Price of Infallibility
It's time to ask: To which of the many papal traditions did John Paul II belong? By Thomas Cahill, Op-Ed Contributor, New York Times.
SPECIAL SECTION--2
ARTICLES ON POPE JOHN PAUL II:
The Pope's Funeral Homily
Text of the homily delivered by Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger.
Fintan Kilbride's Acceptance Speech
...for the Marion Tyrrell Award. See the Profile of Fintan Kilbride in the Archive of this News section.
A Pope of Many Contradictions
By Ted Schmidt, Editor of Catholic New Times of Toronto.
Let Fathers Be Fathers
By Nicholas D. Kristof, Op Ed Columnist, New York Times, April 10, 2005. He prophesies that the next pope will allow married men to become priests.
Anthony Padovano Going to Rome before Conclave
By Ray Grosswirth, Secretary of Corpus USA.
Raise Your Voice, Save the Eucharist!
By Father Jeff Doucette, New Brunswick, Canada.
The Other Half of the Church
By Catherine Pepinster, editor of The Tablet, where this article on the place of women in the Church appeared on April 16, 2005.
He Was a Magnificent Pope...
...who presided over a controversial pontificate. By John L. Allen, Jr.
New Pope's First Crisis
The priest shrotage and its surprisingly simple solution: allow marriage as an option for priests. By Deborah Caldwell. With comments by Anthony Padovano and others.
SPECIAL SECTION--1
ARTICLES ON POPE BENEDICT XVI:
Marriage Works Says a Priesthood Convert
Fr. Bob Harwood concedes he is the happy beneficiary of the loophole in the Catholic Church that allows married clergy converts to be ordained priests. By Jill Rowbotham.
B--ARCHIVE (Click on the titles below, or go to this section in the website: www.ca.renewedpriesthood.org)
ENTRIES FROM FEBRUARY 2005 TO DECEMBER 2011:
Hero of Church's Conservatives Becomes Pope Benedict XVI
By John L. Allen, Jr., Rome
A Profile of Benedict XVI
...the Vatican's Enforcer. By John L. Allen, Jr.
Divisive Issues Await New Pope:
Celibacy for priests, ordination of women among controversial topies on the table. By Kim Kozlowski and Lisa Zagaroli, from The Detroit News.
The Pope Is Not the Church:
...Catholics Are. By Eugene Cullen Kennedy.
Media Release from Corpus USA
April 21, 2005. Corpus USA offers to collaborate with Benedict XVI to solve vocation crisis.
Benedict XVI: A Watchdog Turns Shepherd
By Father Daniel Donovan, Professor Emeritus of Theology at St. Michael's College, University of Toronto.
Pope Benedict XVI's First Message
...delivered in Latin at the end of Mass on April 21, 2005, with the members of the College of Cardinals in the Sistine Chapel, as released by the Holy See Press Office.
The Result of the Papal Election
By Hans Kung, a theological consultant for the Second Vatican Council, who played a major role in the writing of the documents of Vatican II .
"A Humble Intellect"
By John D. Spalding. Controvesial German theologian Uta Ranke-Heinemann explains why she's glad that her former classmate has been made pope.
Reflections on Pope John Paul II
By Jim Noonan, a member of Corpus-National Capital Region (Canada) and editor of its website (www.ca.renewedpriesthood.org).
Pope Benedict XVI:
...Rome's Radical Conservative. By Michael Novak.
CNWE's Requests to Benedict XVI
The Catholic Network for Women's Equality (CNWE), a Canadian grassroots organization, outlines its requests to Pope Benedict XVI.
Assessing His Legacy: Four Critiques
By 1) Nancy A. Dallavalle; 2) Richard P. McBrien; 3) Rabbi Irving Greenberg; and 4) Terrence W. Tilley.
Challenges for the New Pope
An Editorial in America magazine, April 25/05.
Benedict XVI's Inaugural Mass Homily
"Do Not Be Afraid of Christ! He Takes Nothing Away and Gives Everything." Rome, April 24, 2005.
The Real Benedict XVI:
Far from a "Rottweiler", the new Pope is a Mozart man, a listener with a keen mind and a good heart. By George Weigel.
Separate, Not Equal at All:
Most orthodoxies have found a way to make women both apart and less, by turning them into near occasions of sin or angels in the house. By Anna Quindlen.
Assessing the Pontificate of John Paul II
By Episcopalian Bishop John Shelby Spong.
Is Liberation Theology Dead?
By Rosemary Radford Reuther, Carpenter Professor of Feminist Theology at the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley, California.
Anthony Padovano Reports on the Conclave Project
A report on the Conclave Project by the Corpus USA Ambassador.
Welcoming a New Pope
By Ronald Rolheiser, OMI, a specialist in the field of spirituality and systematic theology.
Women Expect Little Change on Core Issues
Under Benedict XVI the Vatican is likely to stand firm against female ordinaton and artificial contraception. By Lisa Anderson.
A Liberation Theologian on Benedict XVI:
...Pope of Fear and Centralized Power? By Leonardo Boff.
The Turning Point
How the upheavals of 1968 turned Joseph Ratzinger, a Vatican II reformer, into an ardent conservative. By David Van Biema.
A Place for Dissent:
My Argument with Joseph Ratzinger. By Charles E. Curran.
Anthony Padovano in Phoenix
Former priest travels the world to push for a Catholic clergy allowed to marry. By Lawn Griffiths.
Abuse Suit Forces Sale of Churches:
Newfoundland diocese needs $13 million; Catholic priest victimized 39 boys. By Dene Moore of the Canadian Press, May 10, 2005.
Do Not Weep for Me, Weep for Yourselves
A reaction to the resignation of Ameica editor Tom Reese, S.J. By Joan Chittister, OSB.
Missive from a WOW 2005 Planner
An invitation to attend and support the Women's Ordination Worldwide 2005 Conference at Carleton University, Ottawa, Canada, July-22-24. By Virginia Lafond, Co-chair, WOW 2005 Host Committee.
The Sins of Scripture
By John Shelby Spong. Liberal Bible-Thumping. Reviewed by Nicholas D. Kristoff.
TV Movie "Our Fathers" on Sex Abuse Scandal
Returning spotlight to sins in Boston. With Christopher Plummer as Cardinal Law. By Alessandra Stanley.
Making Sense of Mary
Thoughts on the joint statement by Catholic and Anglican scholars on the role of Mary. By Sarah Jane Boss.
Bad Theology Creates Bad Ecology
Excerpted from The Sins of Scripture by John Shelby Spong.
Cardinal O'Brien Forecasts Married Priests
The leader of Scotland's Catholics believes the church will eventually relent and allow priests to marry. By Calum MacDonald.
The Pope's Right-Hand Woman
Benedict XVI's longtime assistant--Ingrid Stampa, a German laywoman--may just become his confidante at the Vatican. By Rocco Palmo.
Three Reactions to the Forced Resignation of the Editor of America
By 1) Eugene Cullen Kennedy; 2) Joan Chittister, OSB; 3) Richard N. Ostling.
Another Review of TV Movie "Our Fathers"
"Our Fathers" takes viewer inside sex abuse scandal. By Shia Kapos.
Galilee Retreat on October 15-16, 2005
For members of CNWE, CCO, Corpus, and Cosmology and Comparative Religion groups and others interested.
U.S. Jury Backs Bishop Remi de Roo
...over land deal. Vancouver, June 3, 2005.
Cardinal Murphy-O'Connor at Odds with Benedict XVI
...over the direction in which the Pope wishes to take the Church. By John Lloyd.
The Reformation 500 Years Later:
On the need for religious change. By Matthew Fox.
Thoughts on the Papacy:
Container versus contents. By Richard Rohr, OFM.
Nine North Ameican Women to be Ordained on July 25, 2005
...in a ceremony on the St. Lawrence River near Ganonoque, Ontario. Two articles:
Crisis in Priestly Life in Australia and United States
Two articles: 1) By Linda Morris (Australia); 2) By Richard P. McBrien (United States).
Benedict XVI Warms to Papacy:
New pontiff less conservative, more pastoral than expected. By Ann Rodgers.
Correction to Story on Benedict XVI and Celibacy
From Tom Roberts, Editor of National Catholic Reporter.
Church Reacts After Two Canadian Priests Speak Out:
Fr. Ed Cachia of Cobourg, Ontario and Fr. Karl Clemens of Kingston, Ontario. By Michael Valpy.
Bishops and the Beached Whale
They need to let the hierarchical style die. By Eugene Cullen Kennedy.
Two Photos of IFMCP 2005 Congress in Wiesbaden, Germany
1) The new executive committee; 2) The Canadians at the Congress. (Photos courtesy of Joe Gubbels)
Spirituality Is Essential to Wholeness
By Michael Higgins. A summary of his talk "The Spirituality of the Wounded", which focuses on Henri Nouwen and JeanVanier.
Pope Benedict's Theological Vision
By Joseph A. Komonchak. A look at the continuity in the new pope's basic theological approach and vision.
Profile of Sr. Joan Chittister, OSB
A life dedicated to her faith, and to questioning its policies. By Mark Roth.
The Priest, His Flock and His Wife
Fr. Michael Scheip is a rarity: a Roman Catholic priest with a wife and children. His Sarasota parishioners praise Scheip, who is one of the Church's rare exceptions to the vow of celibacy, but his family keeps a low profile. By James Thorner.
The Gift of Married Priests
By Bishop John Crowley. After 49 years as a priest, the Bishop of Middlesbrough hopes for a mixed, celibate and non-celibate clergy. Access to Mass, rather than marital status, matters.
Ontario Member of Parliament, Woman Activist Denied Communion
New Democrat Charlie Angus and Celina Symmonds were both told by their parish priests not to receive Communion because their stands on social issues conflicted with Church teachings. From the Canadian Press.
Gretta Vosper and The Canadian Centre for Progressive Christianity
Her article "Poised!" is introduced by Bishop John Shelby Spong.
Letter from Dan Driscoll on The Rural/Urban Shift
with an elegy on his cousin - Thoughts From a Quiet Man - by Fr. George Gilliland.
Church Abuse Deal Approved in Newfoundland
...by Justice Alphonsus Faour for Bishop Doug Crosby's St. George's diocese. By Dene Moore.
When Is Conversion Not Conversion?
A reflection on ordaining women bishops in the Anglican Church. By Joan Chittister, OSB.
Women Bishops A Step Closer in Anglican Church: 2 articles
1) The Church of England's ruling body has voted to remove the legal blocks stopping women from becoming bishops; 2) Anglicans allow women bishoops.
Resurrecting Mary Magdalene
Historians, mystics and artists debate her significance amid a new surge of popular devotion. By Ed Conroy.
For the Sake of Heaven and Earth:
The New Encounter Between Judaism and Chrisianity. By Irving Greenberg. A Review.
On the Way to Jesus Christ
First new book by Pope Benedict XVI examines the real Jesus - quite different from the popular Jesus. News release.
Beloved French Monk Slain During Service
Brother Roger, the 90-year-old founder of the ecumenical community of Taize in France, was slain at an evening prayer service yesterday, August 16.
Report on WOW 2005 Conference
Supporters of women priests call Church hierarchy 'morally bankrupt'. By Art Babych.
Gretta Vosper Responses
By Bishop John Shelby Spong.
A Catholic Professor on Evolution and Theology
To understand one, it helps to understand the other, says John F. Haught.
Father Ed Cachia and the Reign of Terror
An editorial from Catholic New Times of Toronto. October 9, 2005.
Vows: The Story of a Priest, a Nun, and Their Son by Peter Manseau
Peter Manseau tells the story of his parents and their struggles; his father Bill is a member of Corpus USA. By David Mehegan.
Bishops Must Address Priests' Dwindling Numbers...
...after reaffirming the requirement of celibacy at the recent Synod of the Eucharist. By Cokie Roberts and Steven V. Roberts.
Mourning the Loss of a Wife,...
...and the consolation given by family and friends. By Hank Mattimore.
Three Articles from the Australian e-journal Online Catholics:
1) Lay presidency at the Eucharist; 2) The responsibility of local bishops; 3) Liturgical changes emanating from the Vatican.
The Healing Life of Taize's Brother Roger
By Jim Forest. Along with the Life Profession of the Taize Community.
Religious Inequality Sparks Unofficial Ordination
By Heidi Ulrichsen. Thoughts from Marie Bouclin, Co-ordinator of the recent Women's Ordination Worldwide Conference.
Why Celibacy Makes Sense
By Rev. Robert Barron, author of Bridging the Great Divide (Sheed & Ward), who is professor of systematic theology at Mundelein Seminary.
Vatican Plan to Block Gay Priests
By Jamie Doward, Religious Affairs Correspondent, The Guardian Unlimited.
Leaving the Roman Catholic Church
What does one mean when they say they have left the Roman Catholic Church? By Paul Kelly.
Amazing Church by Gregory Baum
A review by Jack Shea of Baum's remarkable new book which underlines the steady progress made over the years in the development of progressive policies in the Catholic Church.
Albert Schweitzer: A Saint for Labour Day
By John Rollefson.
New Pope Takes Case to One Million Youth
An analysis of Benedict XVI's August 18-21 trip to Cologne, Germany for World Youth Day. By John L. Allen, Jr.
A Story Worth Sharing
Fr. John Powell, a professor at Loyola University in Chicago, writes about a student in his Theology of Faith class.
Breaking News
Does Pope Benedict XVI want to restore the Church tradition of a married priesthood? By Heinz-Jurgen Vogels and Lambert van Gelder.
Bishop Spong Answers a Question on the Virgin Birth
...Isn't the Council of Nicea's pronouncement on Jesus' divinity just a pre-emption to provide security and control?
Bishop Fred Henry on Homosexuality, and Phil Little's Response
The inclination versus the act: homosexual activity demands definition. A shepherd speaks.
Prime Minister Martin May Face Vatican's Wrath
He could be refused Holy Communion. Gay marriage also fuels bishops' debate in Canada. By Sandro Contenta.
God's New Man: The Election of Benedict XVI and the Legacy of John Paul II by Paul Collins
A report on the state of the Church at this turning point in its history. Reviewed by David James.
Fundamentalism: Symbol of the Great Discontent
What is behind radical fundamentalism? By John Renesch.
Bishops Propose Priests Wed:
Report from the Synod on the Eucharist in Rome. By Roland Flamini.
If the Eucharist Isn't a Right, Is It a Responsibility?
With comments on an initiative from Corpus USA. By Sr. Joan Chittister, OSB.
Celebration Defies Church
Michele Birch-Conery presides over first service. By Sandra McCulloch.
A Catholic Moment of Truth
A lament on the forthcoming "instruction" from Rome banning homosexuals from seminaries. By James Carroll.
Robert Walter Funk, Founder of the Jesus Seminar, 1926-2005
A tribute. By Bishop John Shelby Spong.
Forgiveness
Fourteen Steps. By Paschal Baute.
The Miracle in Abingdon, U.K.
The story of "The Spirituality Group". By Bishop John Shelby Spong.
Is the Reformation Over?
An Evangelical Assessment of Contemporary Roman Catholicism. By Mark A. Noll and Carolyn Nystron. Baker Academic Press. 272 pp. $24.99 USD. Reviewed by Geoffrey Wainwright.
The Sin of Obligatory Celibacy
A letter from Alan Phillip, C.R. to Pope Benedict XVI.
IFMCP 2005 Congress - Report
...including summaries of the presentations by Rafael Esteban and Alice Gombault. By D'Arcy Coulson.
The Catholic Challenge: A Question of Conscience by Thomas W. Rezanka
A book which should be read by Catholic laity and clergy alike. Reviewed by Jim Noonan.
Vatican Paper on Homosexuals Surfaces...
...puts limits on gays in priesthood. By Cathy Lynn Grossman.
On Priesthood and Those With Homosexual Tendencies
Instruction from the Congregation for Catholic Education.
Secularism and Benedict XVI
Secularism occupies a prominent place in the new pontificate. By Jack Shea.
Document on Homosexual Priests...
...is in tension with Advent. By Eugene Cullen Kennedy.
Saint in the City
The life and legacy of Dorothy Day. By Jason Rowe.
The Shaking Reality of Advent
Written in a Nazi prison by a Jesuit priest shortly before he was hanged in 1945. By Alfred Delp.
Stalking the Holy: The Pursuit of Saint-Making by Michael Higgins
An excerpt from Higgins' forthcoming book, which explores facets of sainthood.
The "Instruction" and Three Qualities for Holy Orders
...for both homosexual and heterosexual priests. By Paul Kelly.
For What It's Worth, Our Condolences...
...to homosexuals in positions of leadership in the Catholic Church. Editorial in National Catholic Reporter.
'No Sex' Ruling No Surprise
The new Instruction says merely that under some circumstances gays can become priests, and under other circumstances they cannot. By Andrew Greeley.
A Renewal Programme for Jesuits in India
...ordained in 1991. By Delio de Mendonca, S.J.
Pastors in Canada Are Facing Ever More Empty Pews in 2006
...with comments from Susan Roll and Tom Harpur. By Eric Shackleton, The Canadian Press.
The Elephant in the Sacristy: The Sacred Silence Around Celibacy
A three-part series by Ted Schmidt.
Touched by Beauty
How my experience of Keats's poem 'Ode on a Grecian Urn' nurtured my spirit. By Jim Noonan.
Articles on James Loney...
...and the other hostages in Iraq. From several sources.
A Look Back at 2005:
The year of two popes. By Richard P. McBrien.
The Wisdom of Importing Foreign Priests
Responses for the Australian Catholic Church that apply to other first-world countries. By Michael Whelan, SM.
He Could Have Been a Contender for Pope
The charismatice Hans Kung continues to draw crowds. By Robert Blair Kaiser.
Telling the Oblate Story
...for the final edition of the magazine Oblate Missions. By Frederick A. Miller.
The Catholic Worker Movement: Intellectual and Spiritual Origins by Mark and Louise Zwick (Mahwah, N.J.: Paulist Press, 2005; paperback, $29.95 USD)
'Considering Dorothy Day.' A review by Paul Likoudis.
Anybody Remember 'Ransoming Pagan Babies'?
How this practice could be used for ongoing aid to disasters today. By Joan Chittister, OSB.
Loving Dissent
Fr. Charles Curran has made a career out of standing up to the Vatican. By Jimmy Fowler.
The Church in Crisis
Pope Benedict's Theological Vision. By Joseph A. Komonchak.
News of an Irish Priest Who Fathers a Child...
...brings to the fore throughout Ireland the priestly celibacy issue. Three media stories.
Benedict Gets Back to Basics
A reflection on the Pope's first encyclical 'Deus Caritas Est' ('God Is Love'). By Paul Collins.
The United Church of Canada Strikes Again
...in starting an experimental congregation in Markham, Ontario. By John Shelby Spong.
Our Endangered Values: America's Moral Crisis by Jimmy Carter
The former President offers a personal consideration of moral values as they relate to the important issues of our day. From The Carter Center.
Happiness Isn't Normal
Controversial psychologist Steven Hayes says: embrace the pain. By John Cloud.
The Saintly Sinner
The two-thousand-year obsession with Mary Magdalene. By Joan Acocella.
After the Big Chill:
Intellectual Freedom and Catholic Theologians. By Luke Timothy Johnson.
The Story Behind the Hierarchy's Obsession with Sexuality
How did the story develop and what might be its happy ending? By Mary E. Hunt.
Open Letter to Cardinal Marc Ouellet, Primate of the Church in Canada
...from the Ottawa Statement Group.
He Who Holds the Keys of the Kingdom
On the revival of indulgences under Benedict XVI. By Robert Mickens.
Gregory Baum and the New Muslim Intellectuals
Baum envisages a future marked by enlightened religious co-operation. By Stephen Scharper.
Short Reflections on Intimacy and Relationships
1) The Ways We Love; 2) The Presence of God; 3) The Balance Between Closeness and Distance.
Quebec Priests Take Stand for Same-Sex Marriage and Homosexual Priests
Two reports: 1) from the Montreal Gazette; 2) from the Globe and Mail.
Vetting the Jesus Parable
Bible scholar John Dominic Crossan on the Christmas story. By Jay Rath.
Charles Davis and The Da Vinci Code
1971 Observer article was one of the first to suggest Jesus married and had children. By David Smith.
Review of the film The Ninth Day
...about a priest who must return to Dachau prison in nine days unless he can get his bishop to give up his opposition to the occupation of Luxembourg. By Joseph Cunneen.
Jesus for the Non-Religious, Parts 1, 2 and 3
A new series on who Jesus was before the gospels were written. By John Shelby Spong.
Catholic Spirituality: What Does It Mean Today?
Some reflections for Lent 2006. By Lawrence S. Cunningham.
Speaking Truth to Power: The February Prophets
Bono and Joe Lowery confront George W. Bush. By Ted Schmidt.
Letter from Fr. Ed Cachia
...who is beginning a new Catholic community.
Note:
The Special Sections on Benedict XVI and John Paul II Follow the Archive of Articles and Letters.
Wake Up Lazarus: On Catholic Renewal by Pierre Hegy (iUniverse, 2011) $22.95 USD
Urgent tasks for church renewal: Author's proposals may be vital for the future of Catholicism. A review by Peter Phan.
Catholic Group Takes Aim at Rome, Hierarchy on Social Issues
The Canadian Religious Conference faults the Canadian Church for its "unconditional alignment...with directives issued from Rome." By Michael Valpy.
The Tipping Point: The Climate is Crashing, and Global Warming Is To Blame
Why the crisis hit so soon--and what we can do about it. By Jeffrey Kluger.
Don't Treat Married Priests Like Pariahs
The Church welcomes married Protestant ministers to its clergy--so why the double standard? By John Horan.
Statement by Freed Hostage James Loney
...on his return to his home town of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. (Excerpts)
The Full Story About My Grandmother
The dark side of her life make her more real, more complex, more human, and no less lovable. By Brian Kantz.
Christ Could Not Have Been Married
A response to 'Charles Davis and The Da Vinci Code'. By Heinz-Jurgen Vogels.
Excommunication of Fr. Ed Cachia
...and Phil Little's letter in response to it.
Gospel of Judas--Two articles:
1) The Gospel Truth by Elaine Pagels; 2) A Kiss for Judas by David van Biema.
Easter Always
The resurrection gives us a new community in the Holy Spirit. By Leo J. O'Donovan, S.J.
Gospel of Judas--No Threat to Faith
Ideas put forth in the Gospel of Judas have confounded believers and scholars since St. Peter. By David Gibson.
Canadian Religious Conference Rediscovers the Prophetic Moment
...in its 'Message to the (Canadian) Bishops. By Ted Schmidt.
From Division to Unity
An assessment of Benedict XVI's first year in office. By Charles Curran.
Good Catholic Girls:
How Women Are Leading the Fight to Change the Church. A book by Angela Bonavoglia.
What Is the Point of Being a Christian?
On the urgent obligation to heal divisions in the Church. By Timothy Radcliffe, O.P.
Sex. Priests, and Secret Codes:
The Catholic Church's 2,000-Year Paper Trail of Sexual Abuse. By Thomas P. Doyle, A.W.R. Sipe and Patrick J. Wall.
Feminine Divine
What we're talking about when we talk about the feminine divine in Christianity. By Rosemary Radford Reuther.
Da Vinci Code Does a Disservice to Mary of Magdala
With the May 19 release of the movie 'The Da Vinci Code,' speculation about the true role of Mary of Magdala will again take center stage. By Christine Schenk.
Canadian Catholics on the Hook for $80M
...to compensate Aboriginal Canadians who attended residential schools. By Deborah Gyapong.
Vatican Restricts Ministry of Legionaries Priest Founder
Move seen as confirmation of sex abuse allegations against Fr. Maciel. By John L. Allen, Jr..
Da Vinci Code Links
Links to analysis and reviews of the book and film 'The Da Vinci Code'.
Da Vinci Code Unsettles Church
Spiritual equality for women makes many uncomfortable. By Joanna Manning.
Merton's Enlightenment
What he found in Asia. By Paul Wilkes.
Franciscan Guide to Dialogue
A look at St. Francis of Assisi as a model eminently suited to today's world. By Scott M. Thomas.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--1
...about Wayne the Painter.
The Lady Is A Bishop
Patiricia Fresen of South Africa was recently ordained as one of three female Roman Catholic bishops in the world. By Marjorie Reiley Maguire.
'Da Vinci Code'--The Truth at the Heart of It.
Dan Brown has said that part of his inspiration in 'The Da Vinci Code' was one of the Gnostic Gospels as presented in a book by Elaine Pagels. By Elaine Pagels.
Easter Imagined and Recreated
A speculative reconstruction of the moment when Easter broke into human history. By John Shelby Spong.
Vatican Official to Anglicans:
Women bishops would destroy unity. By Simon Caldwell.
Catholics Seek Spirituality on Their Own Terms
A look at the present state of Catholicism in Europe. By David O'Reilly.
A Brief Perspective...
...on enhancing Muslim-Christian understanding. By Jennifer Waterman.
Christianity in Canada
A summary of the recent presidential address to the Ameican Society of Church History by church historian Mark Noll. By Martin E. Marty.
Richard McBrien Replies to Timothy Radcliffe's Speech
re: 1) Demoralization in the Church; and 2) Sources of demoralization. By Richard P. McBrien.
A Church In Search of Itself:
Benedict XVI and the Battle for the Future by Robert Blair Kaiser. Reviewed by Ted Schmidt.
Ad Limina Visit to Rome of the Quebec Bishops
...and the message they received beforehand from the Canadian Religious Conference. By Marco Veilleux.
A Supportive Talk By an Active Priest
...to married priests and their wives at the Corpus USA Conference. By Richard G. Rento.
Copious Quote from George Carlin
...whose wife recently died. By George Carlin.
Catholicism in Spain
...from the Religion and Ethics Newsweekly of the PBS network (July 7/06).
How Catholicism Fell from Grace in Ireland:
Country doesn't even have enough priests. By Tom Hundley.
Children's Village
Using grandparent power to help neglected kids in Sonoma County. By Hank Mattimore.
Celebrations for St. Mary Magdalene
...for her feast day on July 22. Press Release from FutureChurch.
A Church That Can and Cannot Change by John T. Noonan, Jr.
Could the Church have gotten it wrong? Let's look at the facts. Reviewed by Cathleen Kaveny.
Archbishop Emmanuel Milingo of Zambia Breaks with Rome
...saying he wants to reconcile married priests with the Catholic Church. By Charity Moonga.
Anglicanism at the Crossroads
Changes put future of church in doubt.
On Henri Nouwen
The Social Edge interview with Michael O'Laughlin. By Gerry McCarthy.
'Where the Laity Flourish'
Letter to America Magazine. By Paul Kelly.
Opposing Responses to the Women's Ordinations in Pittsburgh on July 31
1) Understanding the priestly role by Joseph Shimek; 2) Women and the priestly role by Marjorie Reiley Maguire.
Sharing the Oceanic Feeling
A meditation by the seaside with Teresa of Avila. By James Carroll.
What Would Jesus Do? Ban Christmas!
The crazed materialism that has hijacked the meaning of the holiday is getting worse. By Ralph Surette.
In the Twilight, Billy Graham Shares What He's Learned
...in reflecting on politics and scripture, old age and death, mysteries and moderation. By Jon Meacham.
Thoughts from Catholic Theologian Daniel C. Maguire
1) Letter to all 270 United States Bishops, and to the Archbishop of Milwaukee on his reply; 2) The Church IS a Democracy. By Daniel C. Maguire.
The Muslim Malaise
The problems of Muslims are not what many in the West make them out to be. By Haroon Siddiqui.
Understanding Religious Anger
On the level of anger which seems to mark religious people. By John Shelby Spong.
Vatican Recruits African and Asian Priests
...as fewer Italians serve as priests in Rome. By Adam L. Freeman.
Two Articles on the Place of Women in the Catholic Church
1) Anything but a settled matter. By Tom Roberts; 2) The long goodbyes. By Deborah Halter.
'Fear Not' for 'The Root of War is Fear'
Reflections in a time of war on St. Mark and Thomas Merton. By Timothy Seidel.
War Is Not a Solution for Terrorism
Thoughts on the recent war experience of the United States and Israel in the Middle East. By Howard Zinn.
Pope re-evaluates 'spirit of Assisi'
...calls the 1986 interreligious prayer gathering in Assisi a prophetic event. By Robert Mickens.
Pope Should Stay Out of Canadian Politics
A commentary on the recent 'ad limina' visit to Rome by the Ontario bishops. By Joanna Manning.
'Seeing God in Others'
What I learned from the mentally handicapped. By Jean Vanier.
A Challenge, Not a Crusade
A positive view of Benedict XVI's citation on Islam. By John L. Allen, Jr.
A Negative View of the Pope's Citation on Islam
We cannot afford to maintain these ancient prejudices against Islam. By Karen Armstrong.
Breath of the Logos
Faith, reason and Isalm. By Pope Benedict XVI.
c1-Archbishop Milingo Appears in New Jersey
...to sponsor a conference for the group Married Priests Now!
c2-Archbishop Milingo Incurs Excommunication
...after ordaining as bishops four bishops of the Old Catholic Church. By Carol Glatz.
Freeing Celibacy by Donald Cozzens (Liturgical Press. Dist. Columba Book Services. $15.95 USD)
1) A profile of the author and the book. By Andrew Welsh-Huggins; 2) 'Celibacy hurts the Church, priest's book argues.' A review by David Briggs; 3) 'Priests are both flesh and spirit'. A review by Peter Cornwell.
Ad Limina Visit to Rome of the Bishops of Western Canada
...and other news of the Catholic Church in Canada.
A Short Reflection on Life, Hurt, and Happiness
...and a picture that is worth a thousand words. Anonymous.
Report on the Married Priests Now! Convocation
...held September 17-19, 2006 in New Jersey. By +Peter Paul Brennan.
When Insults Had Class
Elegant insults by and about famous people. Sample: 'He is a self-made man and worships his creator.'
Married Priests Groups Hesitant about Archbishop Milingo
...and his organization Married Priests Now! By Brian Murphy.
'Novel' Thinking Needed on Both Sides
Our world increasingly finds itself in a clash of narratives. By Noah Richler.
Thy Kingdom Come
A reflection on the roadblocks to the thinking of the Second Vatican Council. By Ted Schmidt.
Cachia's Community Meets a Detour on the Journey
As Father Ed Cachia returns to the Roman Catholic Church, Christ the Servant community contemplates its next steps. By Heather Bahen.
Saint Finder of Keys
On All Saints Day, prayers for every need, including scarce parking spaces, lost iPods and hard-to-find husbands. By James Martin, SJ.
The Changing Language of God
More Latin Masses seen as a futile shoring up of a rapidly collapsing clericalism. By James Carroll.
Report on the North Atlantic Federation for a Renewed Catholic Priesthood
...following its executive meeting in London, England on October 1, 2006. By Jack Shea.
The Rule of Benedict by David Gibson
'The Puzzling Pope: Who Is Benedict XVI?' A review by Andrew M. Greeley.
Pope and Aides to Discuss Celibacy Issues on November 16
...and a world candle light vigil for married priests on November 15.
Catholic New Times Ceases Publication
Church's 'voice of dissent' in Canada closes. By Stuart Laidlaw.
Pope Reaffirms Celibacy for Priests
...after a summit with aides at the Vatican. By the Associated Press.
The Bible Is True
...and some of it happened. By Ted Schmidt.
Members of Corpus-National Capital Region (Canada) Attend Retreat on Islam
...at Galilee Centre in Arnprior, Ontario. By Jim Noonan.
Press Release: Archbishop Emmanuel Milingo Answers Vatican
...by reaffirming the gift of celibacy and the holiness of marriage. From Dairo Ferrabolli.
Pondering with Mary
A reflection on the meaning of Mary for today. By Frederick A. Miller.
Muhammad: A Prophet for Our Time by Karen Armstrong
A new biography of the founder of Islam. Reviewed by Wayne Holst.
Cardinal Hummes Eats Vatican Crow
...after declaring the Vatican "may revise the question" of clerical celibacy. By Ted Schmidt.
Muslim Theologians Battle Female Circumcision
They agree that the practice of female genital mutilation is irreconcilable with Islam. By Amira El Ahl in Cairo.
Guelph Native Thomas Collins Is New Toronto Archbishop
Edmonton archbishop, 59, will replace the retiring, and often controversial, Aloysius Cardinal Ambrozic, 76. By Dale Brazao.
Archbishop Milingo Ordains Two Married Men
...at a Married Priests Now! Convocation in New Jersey. By David Porter.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--2
...about the Catholic parrots who could say the rosary.
Obituary of Fintan Kilbride
...priest, husband, father, teacher, tireless worker for developing countries. From the Toronto Star.
Catholics for a Changing Church (UK)
Catholics for a Changing Church was founded in the wake of
Humanae Vitae in 1969 and now concerns itself with the wider issues of renewal and the unfinished business of Vatican II, particularly by publishing inexpensive, stimulating and challenging booklets by leading Catholic writers.(
www.ccc4vat2.co.uk/)
The Coming Biofuels Disaster by Joe Brewer
With a personal introductory note by Elaine McGillicudy.
From Sand to Solid Ground by Michael Morwood (Crossroad Pub. Co.; $10.47 USD from Amazon.com)
The deceptively simple approach of this book helps readers rethink many of the ideas they view as absolute but may only be traditional.
All Things Catholic
1) Ten mega-trends shaping the Catholic Church, and; 2) the top five missing mega-trends suggested by Allen's readers . By John L. Allen, Jr.
'Renovated' Catholicism Attracts Few Tenants
The story of Fr. Ed Cachia's breakaway community after he reconciled with the Catholic Church. By Kelly Patrick.
Christmas Report on Project Chincha Baja--Students Without Barriers
...about his work on two elementary schools in a village in Peru. By Joe Gubbels.
Obituary and Tribute to Father Jim Roberts
A longtime columnist with Catholic New Times of Toronto, he was one of Canada's most well-known and controversial priests. By Wency Leung.
Tne New Inquisition
1) The Vatican approves the excommunication of all members of the reform group Call to Action in the Lincoln, Nebraska diocese. The decision is being appealed. By Angela Bonavoglia; 2) A response: What Is Catholic Faith? By Richard P. McBrien.
Fintan the Unforgettable
A tribute to Fintan Kilbride (1927-2006). By Ted Schmidt.
The Muslim Mary
If you are looking for the religious text with the most references to Mary, the mother of Jesus, look no further than the Koran. By Jennifer Green.
Daily Mass Readings Podcast
The Daily Readings from the New American Bible are now available as podcasts at United States Conference of Catholic Bishops website. Sign up to receive the podcasts or listen to the podcasts at your computer. (
www.usccb.org/nab/nabpodcast/)
United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB)
The official website of the American bishops. (www.usccb.org/)
Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB)
The official website of the Canadian bishops. (www.cccb.ca/)
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--3
...about the funny things kids say in church and out of church.
Learning to Listen
Benedict XVI and interreligious dialogue. By Frances X. Clooney, SJ.
Bernard Lonergan Website
Dedicated to the ongoing work of Canadian philosoper and theologian Bernard Lonergan. Contains links to Lonergan centres around the world. (
www.lonergan.concordia.ca/)
Canadian Council of Churches
The official website of the Canadian Council of Churches. (www.ccc-cce.ca/)
Church Without Women Leaders
Will women ever govern the Roman Catholic Church? By John Wijngaards.
World Council of Churches
The World Council of Churches (WCC) is the broadest and most inclusive among the many organized expressions of the modern ecumenical movement, a movement whose goal is Christian unity. (www.oikoumene.org/)
Muslims on Television
...from Muhammad Ali to Canada's Little Mosque on the Prairie. By Amir Hussain.
Universalis
A website that contains the Liturgy of the Hours and Mass readings for every day. (www.universalis.com/)
This Is A Blessing--Claim It!
In life's crises we should recognize the blessing. By Daniel O'Rourke.
The European Network Church on the Move
The European Network Church on the Move is an umbrella organization for some thirty Catholic renewal organizations in some dozen European countries, with affiliations with a number of other international and non-European groups. (
www.european-catholic-people.eu/)
The Riddle That Is Joseph Ratzinger, aka Benedict XVI
A pope for the melancholy modern age. By Alexander Smoltczyk.
Lay Ecclesial Ministry and the Feminization of the Church
Most people's experience of pastoral ministry in the Catholic church is increasingly with a lay person rather than a priest. By John L. Allen, Jr.
Rev. Marcial Maciel Degollado Dies at the Age of 87
He was the founder of the influential Roman Catholic group the Legionaries of Christ. By Ian Fisher.
Canadian Christian Meditation Community
The purpose of this site is to provide information about Christian Meditation in Canada today. (
www.meditatio.ca/)
Not So Heterodox: In Defence of Roger Haight
By Paul Lakeland. Paul is one of the presenters at the 2007 Corpus USA Conference in Providence, Rhode Island, June 22-24.
Sex Cases Prompt Sale of Bishop's Residence
...that's been home to London, Ontario's Roman Catholic bishops for more than 90 years. By Joe Matyas.
1) Corpus USA Board Statement on Married Priests Now! & 2) Responses
re: the organization in the United States founded by Archbishop Milingo of Zambia.
Social Justice Fighter
An interview with Thomas Collins, the new Archbishop of Toronto. By Stuart Laidlaw.
Reflections on Christian Grief
...occasioned by the death of John Harvie Knight 1960-2006. By John Shelby Spong.
To Keep a True Lent
A poem by Robert Herrick (1591-1674).
The Divinization of the Cosmos
An interview with Brian Swimme on Pierre Teilhard de Chardin. By Susan Bridle.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--4
...about the stories kids learn in Sunday school.
A Marriage Made in Heaven?
Archbishop Milingo says his story is all part of a divine plan. By Peter Manseau.
Father Joe Maier: Slum Priest
He's been working in the slums of Bangkok for 30 years. By Phil Jones.
Post-Eucharistic Synod Apostolic Exhortation Sacramentum Caritatis
Excerpt from the document 'On the Eucharist as the source and summit of the Church's life and mission', including a summary and the complete document's URL address. By Pope Benedict XVI.
Vatican Censures Jesuit Liberation Theologian Jon Sobrino
...who calls its procedures 'not honest'. By John L. Allen Jr.
The Many Forms of Fundamentalism
Fundamentalism has made an extraordinary impact on the world of today. By James Carroll.
The Song That Goes On Singing
An interview with Dr. Beatrice Bruteau, proponent of evolutionary spirituality. By Amy Edelstein and Ellen Daly. With two introductions by Elizabeth Debold.
Knock It Off: A Challenge to Polarized Catholics
An interview with Ronald Rolhsier, OMI, a bridge between liberals and conservatives in the Church. With a Postscript by him on three things for liberals and three things for conservatives to ponder. By the editors of US Catholic Magazine.
Bedtime Prayer of Forgiveness
You, my eternal friend, witness now that I forgive anyone who hurt or upset me or who offended me...By Rabbi Michael Lerner.
Hans Kung Claims Right To Be in Pope's 'Loyal Opposition'
...in a talk given at Saint Paul University in Ottawa. By Deborah Gyapong.
Easter Report 2007 from Joe Gubbels
On "Project Chincha Baja--Students without Borders" in Peru.
Archbishop Raymond Roussin of Vancouver, BC Battles Depression
...and its stigma. By Douglas Todd.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--5
...about the wife who met her remarried husband at the Gates of Heaven.
Jesus for the Non-Religious by John Shelby Spong (NY: HarperCollins, 2006; 336 pp; hardcover, $24.95 USD)
A promotion of the new book by Episcopalian Bishop Spong.
Passover and the Passion
Each is the organizing act of a religion that has spent most of two millennia in tension with the other. By James Carroll.
Good Friday Is Still With Us:
The forces which managed to nail Jesus to the cross are still with us. By Ted Schmidt.
The Pope and Islam
Is there anything that Benedict XVI would like to discuss? By Jane Kramer.
Why People Leave the Church
Don't blame the zeitgeist: reflections of a member of the Orthodox Church. By John Garvey.
Is Benedict
Is Benedict XVI Open to Changing the Law on Priestly Celibacy?
Some Vatican insiders think so. By Russell Shorto.
Disappointment and Sadness in the Church in Canada
The Ottawa Statement Group reacts to the publication of the Post-Synodal Apostolic Exhortation on the Eucharist.
A Son of a Priest Argues the Family Case for a Married Priesthood
Vows of celibacy weren't always required; for 1700 years priests often got married. By Zachary Slobig.
Inertia Will Cost Us the Earth
Three small, low-key stories in the inner pages of the newspapers should have been enough to galvanise every reader into instant action. By Gwynne Dyer.
"Sweet Jesus" in Chocolate, and Child Slavery in the Chocolate Industry
1) A story of two scandals, and; 2) A clarification. By Daniel O'Rourke.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--6
...about the fellow who was about to jump off a bridge.
Priests for the 21st Century, edited by Donald Dietrich
In 'The Church in the 21st Century' series.
You Are What You Grow
How is it that today the people with the least amount of money to spend on food are the ones most likely to be overweight? By Michael Pollan.
Rite Turn
Can the Latin Mass make a comeback?
The New Archbishop Speaks Sign Language
Richard Smith is installed as Archbishop of Edmonton.
Marie Bouclin, a Sudbury Woman, Will Be Ordained a Catholic Priest in Toronto on May 27
...in a ceremony that will not be recognized by the church. By Claire Pilon.
Church In Transition Awaits Pope's Visit to Brazil
Charismatic movement aims to halt exodus from the Catholic Church. By Patrick J. McDonnell and Tracy Wilkinson.
New Archbishop Named for Ottawa
Terrence Prendergast, S.J., current Archbishop of Halifax, will succeed Marcel Gervais. A press release from the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops, May 14, 2007.
Jesus of Nazareth by Pope Benedict XVI (NY: Doubleday, 2007; $32.00 hardcover)
With 'Jesus of Nazareth,' Pope Benedict XVI fights back against 'the dictatorship of relativism' by showing the world his vision of the definitive truth of Christ. A review by Lisa Miller.
Canada and the Religious Right
...and its relationship with the U.S. Religious Right. By Ted Schmidt.
Many Call Me Father, But My Kids Call Me Dad by Rev. James E. Lovejoy
The Life Story of a Married Catholic Priest. From the Bangor Daily News.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--7
...about whether Jesus laughted or not. Adapted from Jim Martin, SJ.
The Birds and the Bees -- and Interdependence
If the nation's honeybees continue to die off, it will be a catastrophe for the food industry itself. By Daniel O'Rourke.
Nomination of Bishops in Kingston, Vancouver, and New Westminster
Pope Benedict XVI today announces the appointments of Brendan O'Brien, Michael Miller and Kenneth Nowakowski to these respective dioceses. A media release of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops, May 31, 2007.
Anglicans Confront Same-Sex Issues
Tensions grow as date for church's national vote in Canada draws near. By Jennifer Green.
The Spirit at Your Back: Spiritual Reflections on This and That by Daniel O'Rourke
A review by Rich Hasselbach, and how to order the book.
Into Great Silence, a film by Philip Groning
A Gentle Whisper, a review of the film. By Matthew Boudway.
Asians Say Their Interest Is Mission, Not Church
A report from the Catholic Theological Society of America's annual conference in Los Angeles. By John L. Allen, Jr.
Gender Equality Ends at the Pew
As Canadian society strives to treat men and women as equals, religion still lags behind. By Leslie Scrivener.
Thought vs. Feeling in Religion
The conflict between them was on display when Pope Benedict XVI arrived last week in Brazil. By James Carroll.
Women Deserve To Be Part Of Priesthood
...says a woman called to ordination in the Roman Catholic Church. By Janice Sevre-Duszynska, Catholic activist.
Beyond Fall/Redemption: The New Story
On the refocusing of theology on God's intimacy with the earth as envisaged by Thomas Berry and others. By Ted Schmidt.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--8
...about Bubba the Baptist who became a Catholic.
Petition to Benedict XVI on Reinstating the Diaconate for Women
and celebrations to honour Mary of Magdala on her feast day, July 22.
The Ecstasy of Ultreya
Reflections on a pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela. By Daniel McCarthy.
This Is NOT the Word of the Lord!
Reflections on a Sunday worship service in which the only thing wrong turned out to be the Bible. By John Shelby Spong.
Coming Soon to a Church Near You
A commentary on the restoration of the Tridentine Latin Rite in the Catholic Church. By Joan Chittister.
Pope Benedict's Mistake
...in issuing two decrees last week: 1) restoring the Mass of the Council of Trent; and 2) resuscitating an outmoded Catholic exclusivism. By James Carroll, July 16/07.
Full Participation Before All Else: On Greater Use of the Tridentine Mass
This is a small change that presages more substantive changes. An editorial from the National Catholic Reporter.
Letters of Benedict XVI on the Use of the Roman Liturgy
1) Apostolic Letter 'Summorum Pontificum' Given Motu Proprio.
2) Letter to the Bishops on the Publication of the Apostolic Letter 'Summorum Pontificum'.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--9
...about the golfer who has an audience with the Pope.
Why Women Should Be Priests
Excerpts from a Houk brochure. By John Houk.
Victims of Suicide Are Sick Not Sinners
With references to Canadian priest author and columnist Ron Rolheiser. By Daniel O'Rourke.
American Catholics Today by Dean Hoge (Roman & Littlefield, 224 pp, paperback. $24.95 USD)
'The Church's Changing Face'. A review essay by Andrew M. Greeley.
More on Catholic-Jewish Relations
...based on Pope Benedict's July motu proprio giving permission to celebrae the pre-Vatican II Latin Mass. By John L. Allen, Jr.
Catholics Threaten To Shun Amnesty on Abortion
As the Council of Amnesty International meets in Mexico. By Pat Ashworth.
Cardinal Kasper to Anglican Communion
"The aim of our dialogue has receded further." By Cardinal Walter Kasper.
Open Letter to Petition Organizers Paul Collins and Frank Purcell
...supporting their petition to the Australian Bishops calling for married priests, women priests and other changes, including the petition. By Bishop Pat Power.
Liturgy 40 Years After the Council
High point or regression? By Godfried Danneels.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--10
...about the world's funniest joke, as reported by The Ottawa Citizen (Aug. 19/07).
Mother Teresa's Crisis of Faith
'I look and do not see, listen and do not hear.' Words of Mother Teresa. By David Van Biema.
The Corpus USA 2007 Conference
...held on June 22-24 at the Rhode Island School of Design in downtown Providence, Rhode Island. By Jim Noonan.
1) Dutch Dominicans Call for Laity to Celebrate Mass, and
2) Catholic Dominican Order Rejects Radical Mass Proposal
The Church of Christ and the Churches
Is the Vatican retreating from ecumenism? By Richard R. Gaillardetz.
How Does One Go About 'Eldering?'
...once we have seven or more decades under our belts? By Hank Mattimore.
A Church 'Scandal' That Isn't
A more sober look at the private letters of Mother Teresa. By Andrew Greeley.
25th Anniversary of Benedictine John Main's Life To Be Celebrated
...at the John Main Seminar in Mount Orford, Quebec, Canada, October 18-21, 2007. By Paul Harris.
1) Vatican Accuses Rev. Peter Phan of Violating Catholic Doctrine, and
2) Pope Warns Catholic Theologians Against Arrogance.
Pope to Visit Post-Scandal U.S. Dioceses
...in a visit whose main purpose is to address the United Nations.
Obituary of Maria Hubert von Staufer
...who addressed the Congress of the North Atlantic Federation for a Renewed Catholic Priesthood in Wiesbaden, Germany in 2004.
Married Priests Now! Conference in the Boston Area on October 13, 2007
...along with the officical position of Corpus USA regarding the ministry of Married Priests Now!
1) Thoughts on the Recent Practice of Confession in the Catholic Church, and
2) Twenty-First-Century Sin
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--11
...about forgiving your enemies.
The Pope Picks His Battles
Benedict's XVI's stand against 'dictatorship of relativism' has doubters. By Charles Lewis.
Concerns for the Environment Energize Laity Toward a New Mission
...but this is not their first faith commitment to tackle urgent current problems. By Hector Welgampola.
The Martyrdom of Burma's Marching Monks
...and the challenge they present to nonviolent peace activists in America. By John Dear, S.J.
Panel Says Episcopalians Have Met Anglican Directive
...on same-sex unions and gay bishops. By Neela Banerjee.
Hidden Holiness: Voices of Priests by Thomas A. McCabe (Mequon, Wisconsin: Caritas, 2007)
A new book published by Caritas Communications.
Finding the Voice of the Church by George Dennis O'Brien (U. of Notre Dame Press, 2007; 256pp, hardcocver, $25.00 USD)
1) To be both a defender of the faith and an advocate of church reform is not easy...but in his new book O'Brien succeeds wonderfully. A review by Sidney Callahan; and 2) A commentary on the book entitled 'Can the Church learn to listen?' By Raymond A. Schroth.
Not All Roads Lead to Rome
The diverse challenges of a struggling world need local solutions from a flexible church. By Bryan Cones.
Confronting Sex and Power in the Catholic Church: Reclaiming the Spirit of Jesus by Bishop Geoffrey Robinson (Australia: John Garrett Publishers, 2007)
A voice within the Catholic hierarchy finally speaks out. A review essay by Bishop John Shelby Spong.
Two artricles on clerical celibacy: 1) Priests Are Happy Without Wives. By Andrew Greeley, with responses from Pat Callahan and Jim Noonan; and
2) Bishops Discuss Married Priests Petition. A response from the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference.
Christmas Message from Joe Gubbels
...as he prepares to return in February, 2008 to help the people of Chincha Baja, Peru.
From Holland, A Refreshing Notion
An editorial from the National Catholic Reporter (Dec. 14/07) on the celebration of the Eucharist without ordained priests.
Channeling Luciani--What If?
An overview of the life and mysterious death of Pope John Paul I (1912-1978). By Therese A. Schoen.
The Nativity of the Lord
A Christmas meditation by Joe Cece, webmaster of the this Corpus-NCR (Canada) website.
Two Poems for Christmas:
1) Christpower by John Shelby Spong, and 2) A modern translation by Joy Cowley of The Magnificat.
A Secular Age by Charles Taylor (Cambridge, Mass.: Belknap Press/Harvard U. Press, 2007) 874pp., $39.95 USD
The Godless Delusion. A review by John Patrick Diggins.
Remembering A Darker Christmas Story
In the groanings of the night, our challenge is to follow the light. By Maryann Cusimano Love.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--14
...about how the weatherman predicts the weather in winter.
New Year's Resolutions 2008
From the editor of Mirabile Dictu and Corpus Reports, David Gawlik.
Which Jesus Are You Waiting For?
It is very hard to be a serious Christian drowning in the treacle and excess of advanced capitalism. By Ted Schmidt.
Gracious God, Hidden Heart of the Cosmos
The grace given at this year's annual Corpus-NCR, CNWE, CCO, and Cosmology Group Christmas dinner at the home of Maurice and Claudia Sullivan. By Maurice Sullivan.
Summit Could Herald Anglican Schism
Conservative Anglican leaders are to stage a breakaway summit in Jerusalem six weeks before July's Lambeth Conference in Britain. By Paul Majendie.
Retired Vatican Official Sentenced to 4 Years for Sexually Assaulting Boys
Monsignor Bernard Prince, 72, was sentenced in Pembroke, Ontario, about 150 kilometres west of Ottawa.
The Beginning of the Beginning
How Vatican II changed Jewish-Christian relations. By John Wilkins.
Will the New 'Black Pope' Work?
Thoughts on the new Superior Geneal of the Society of Jesus. By Jeff Israely, January 19, 2008.
Pastoral Challenges for the New Year
...especially the precipitous decline in vocations to the ordained priesthood. By Fr. Richard McBrien.
Saintly But Very Human
John Heny (Cardinal) Newman is likely to be beatified soon. By Roderick Strange.
The Hidden History of Women's Ordination: Female Clergy in the Medieval West by Gary Macy (N.Y.: Oxford U. Press, 2008; 275pp, hardcover, $25.00 USD)
Church allowed female priests in first millenia. A review by Jennifer Green.
The Year for the Married Priest
Peter Brennan, President of Married Priests USA, joins Pope Benedict in a parallel call for a Year for the Married Priest.
The Austrian Church After the Pope's Visit
Will anything change? By Therese A. Schoen.
A Duty of Conscience
...may be disagreement with the magisterium of the Church, as theologian Gregory Baum says. By Ted Schmidt.
1) Press Release: Global Muslim Leadership Makes Unprecedented Call for Accord with Christian World, and
2) Names of the Leaders of all Christian Churches to Whom the 29-Page Letter Signed by 138 Muslin Clerics Was Sent.
Post Celibacy Stress Syndrome and Our Ageing Adolescent Clerics
With some suggestions for what we can do. By Dr. Joseph Dietrich Dr. P.H.
Fired by the Spirit: Renewing the Parish - 1
Small groups hold the key to parish renewal. By Cormac Murphy-O'Connor, Cardinal Archbishop of Westminster.
The Atheism Theism Debate
The arguments wander down all kinds of alleys, which have little to do with God's existence or nature. By Daniel O'Rourke.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--12
...about Paddy the Entrepreneur.
On Global Warming and the Worsening Dangers of Climate Change Denial
An interview with Australian scientist Tim Flannery. By Amy Goodman.
Does Faith Have A Future?
The question is one we need to have the courage to address. By Paul Lakeland.
Would Jesus Exclude Women? I Don't Think So
Wirtten shortly before two Catholic women were ordained as priests on November 11, 2007 Central Reform Congregation, a synagogue in St. Louis, Missouri. By Sylvester Brown, Jr.
Journeys to the Heart of Catholicism by Ted Schmidt (Hamilton, Ont.: Seraphim Books, 2007) paperback, 245 pp, $19.95 CAD, $18.95 USD
A new book by Ted Shmidt.
Blessed Franz Jaggerstatter: "One of God's Special Friends"
He was beatified by the Catholic Church on October 26, 2007. By Ted Schmidt.
The Other Health Crisis: Why Priests Are Coping Poorly. By Paul Stanosz
P.S. I wonder how much of this applies to the Church in Canada. Ed.
Cardinal Marc Ouellet, Archbishop of Quebec, Has Issued an Extraordinary Mea Culpa
...in an open letter to media. By Sean Gordon.
Catholics at War over Priest Crisis
...as seen at a meeting in Camberwell, Australia. By Barney Zwartz.
Description and Subscription Form for New Catholic Times: Sensus Fidelium
A new on-line magazine to be published in Canada. By John Quinn and Ted Schmidt.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--13
...about the atheist and the bear.
New Encyclical Letter on Hope 'Spe Salvi'
Given in Rome on November 30,2007. By Pope Benedict XVI.
Announcement of a Congress of the North Atlantic Federation for a Renwed Catholic Priesthood
...to be held in Vienna, Austria on November 6-9, 2008. By Jack Shea.
Response from the Holy See to the Letter Sent by 138 Muslim Scholars and Leaders
...addressed to Prince Ghazi bin Muhammad bin Talai, a Jordanian academic thought to be the leader of the Muslim initiative.
My Second First Mass
On presiding at a Latin liturgy. By Fr. Michael Kerper.
Quest for the Living God: Mapping Frontiers in the Theology of God by Elizabeth A. Johnson (N.Y.: Continuum, 2007; 234pp, hardcover, $24.95 USD)
1) Ever ancient, ever new. A review by John E. Thiel. (repeat); 2) A hunger for mature theology. By Thomas C. Fox. (new).
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--15
...about the dying man who called for a priest on a street in New York City.
More on the Dutch Dominicans and the Eucharist
1) To Serve and To Celebrate by André Lascaris, one of the four Dominican authors of the booklet 'Church and Ministry', and; 2) Catholic order warns Dutch priests not to split Church.
Beyond Betrayal: On Pedophile Priests
If Dante had given his inferno another level, it would be for priests who prey on kids. Their breach of trust strikes to the very soul, not only of the child, but of the entire community. By Janice Kernnedy.
Vatican Response to Paedophilia by Priests
Pope calls for continuous prayer to rid priesthood of paedophilia. By Richard Owen.
Cardinal Mahony: A Novel by Robert Blair Kaiser (Phoenix, AZ: Bumble-bee Press, 2008; 257pp, paperback, $19.95 USD)
A timely tonic for despairing Catholics. A review by Simon Bryden-Brook.
Vocation and Crisis
Entering religious life during a time of scandal. By James T. Keane, S.J.
And With Muslims?
An interview with Fr. Samir Khalil, S.J. on Muslim-Christian relations in the light of recent developments. By Wlodzimierz Redzioch.
A Slow, Sure Spiritual Journey
A selection of Lenten books that are long on wisdom and depth. By Emilie Griffin.
Love is Difficult, Demanding and Wonderful
A meditation for St. Valentine's Day. By Daniel O'Rourke.
The Rise of the Lay Voice: Sensus Fidelium (Part One)
An article to accompany the launch of the new Canadian online journal New Catholic Times: Sensus Fidelium. By Ted Schmidt, Editor.
Reviving An Old Insult to the Jews
In last week's promulgation of the Latin Mass, Catholics are still to pray that God "enlighten" the hearts of the Jews - and that is wrong. By James Carroll.
Can the Catholic Church Tolerate Mature Believers?
An editorial in the first issue of the new online Canadian journal New Catholic Times: Sensus Fidelium. By Ted Schmidt and John Quinn.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--16
...about Why God Made Moms: answers given by young children to several questions about moms, followed by the story The Mommy Test.
The Empty Box: Why Catholics Skip Confession
Thoughts from a parish priest for a new understanding of the sacrament. By Raymond C. Mann, OFM.
Obituary of Philip Kaufman, OSB
He was the author of the book Why You Can Disagree and Remain a Faithful Catholic (1989). By Terry Dosh.
The Origins of the Bible
Part 1: Examining the aura created around the Bible. By John Shelby Spong.
On Thomas Berry
He is one of today's most probing thinkers on the human relationship with the natural world and its implications for religion. By Rich Heffern.
Lessons from an Extraordinary Era
Catholic theology since Vatican II. By Roger Haight, SJ.
Catholicism and the New Atheism
...in the light of the Second Vatican Council's Constitution on the Church in the Modern World. By Richard R. Gaillardetz.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--19
...about the priest who was asked to smuggle a young woman's hair dryer through Customs.
Duceppe Assails Tory Candidate's Opus Dei Affiliation
...during the current Canadian federal election campaign. By Andrew Chung.
The Radical Truth Behind the Lord's Prayer
Thoughts as the Ontario Legislature prepares to drop the prayer from its daily proceedings. By Ron Csillag.
Fourscore and Still Thinking!
A tribute by the International Movement We Are Church (IMWAC) on the occasion of the 80th birthday of Professor Hans Kueng on March 19, 2008.
I Don't Believe In Atheists by Chris Hedges (Free Press, 2008) hardcover, 224 pp, $28.99 CAD
1) Book description; and 2) Acknowledging our spiritual nature. A review by Lorenzo Di Tommaso.
Rescuing Utopia
...in a time of a crisis of civilization of planetarian proportions. By Leonardo Boff.
What the Gospels Meant by Garry Wills (NY: Viking, 2008) hardcover, 224 pp, $24.95 USD
What Jesus really did. A review by David Gibson.
The Sensus Fidelium (Part Two)
...which continues with an examination of the relative roles of the papacy and the laity in the Catholic Church from the 4th century to the present. By Ted Schmidt.
The Good Prostitute
A modern telling of the Parable of the Good Samaritan. By Jane Anderson, author of Roman Catholic Clergy and Their Intimate Friendships.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--17
...about the dog who chased anyone on a bike.
The Papal Visit to the United States, April 15-20, 2008
A call for tranquility and unity. By Thomas Patrick Melady.
The Cure for What Ails Your Soul
The Catholic Church's renewed interest in exorcism has priests at odds with psychiatrists. Does mental illness account for even the most troubled people, or is Satan a real creature that stalks mankind? By Jennifer Green.
Why Not Ordain Women?
Scripture, history, and women's ordination. By Robert J. Egan.
A Challenging Reform: Realizing the Vision of the Liturgical Renewal, 1963-1975 by Archbishop Piero Marini (Collegeville, MN: Liturgical Press, 2007) paperback, $15.95 USD
Archbishop Marini on liturgical renewal since Vatican II. A review by Richard McBrien.
Clericalism: The Death of Priesthood by George B. Wilson, SJ (Collegeville, MN: Liturgical Press, 2008) paperback, 158 pp, $19.95 USD
Reconnect the pulpit and the pew. A review by Tony Philpot.
Pope's Visit to the United States: Acid Test of His Political and Pastoral Abilities
1) Prospects of Pope Benedict's journey to the US and of his speech at the UN; and 2) A critical appraisal of the first three years of his pontificate. By the International Movement We Are Church (IMWAC).
Reforming the Vatican:
What the Church Can Learn from Other Institutions. By Thomas J. Reese, SJ.
Ordination Ceremony of Monica Kilburn-Smith of Calgary, AB and James Lauder of Victoria, BC by bishop Patricia Fresen
On Thursday, May 29 at 2:00 p.m. at St Aidan's United Church in Victoria, BC. Press Release by The Roman Catholic Womenpriests Movement, Canada.
Covering Pope Benedict's Visit to the United States
Less was more: Benedict XVI in America. By Bill McGarvey.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--18
...about Johnny the Baptist and the cat (with photos of Johnny and the cat).
The Jesus Seminar and the Future of Scholarship in the Christian Churches
A history of the Jesus Seminar, and its hopes for the future. By Bishop John Shelby Spong.
All Hail Breaks Loose Over Fast-Food Slogan
...after Bishop Douglas Crosby, O.M.I. complains about the use of 'Hail Mary' in the ads. By The Canadian Press.
Former Roman Catholic Bishop's Trial Set for May 4, 2011
Reverend Raymond Lahey faces child pornography charges in Ottawa. From The Canadian Press.
Is Liberal Catholicism Dead?
In his recent visit to the U.S. Pope Benedict may have dealt it a knockout blow. By David Van Biema.
The Legacy of Those Who Left the Canonical Priesthood
We have found here all we were meant to be and the Christ who would not allow us to be less than that. By Anthony Padovano.
Calgary Woman To Be Ordained a Priest on May 29, 2008
Campaign for reform feels 'prophetic'. By Graeme Morton.
Constantine's Sword, a film by Oren Jacoby based on the book by James Carroll
Christianity's violent history. A review by Joseph Cunneen. Introduced by a video interview with James Carroll.
Open Letter to Cardinal Marc Ouellet of Quebec City
On the occasion of the International Eucharistic Congress in Quebec City, June 15-22, 2008. By the Ottawa Statement Group.
Zoomers Need to Stop and Think
An analysis of this new designation of baby boomers - "boomers with zip". By Dow Marmur.
Lord of the Dance
On finding the balance between loving connection and stifling control. By Margaret Silf.
Bishop Geoffrey Robinson Speaks at Emmanuel College in Toronto on Sunday, June 1 at 2 p.m.
...after being refused permission by Cardinal Mahony to speak in Los Angeles, and being rebuffed by his fellow Australian bishops. By Stephen Scharper.
Thirty Years a Priest: Gratitude, Joy, and a Quiet Lament
...for women who have been excommunicated for being ordained as priests. By Francis X. Clooney, S.J.
Where Have All the Thinkers Gone?
An interview with Cardinal Danneels of Belgium on the scarcity of intellectuals among bishops. By Robert Mickens.
Catholic Group Ordains Woman in Victoria, B.C.
Reformist group pushes for end to unjust rule. By Katie DeRosa.
Price of Gasoline, Energy and Prayer
Does it help to join hands around gasoline pumps and pray for lower gasoline prices? By Daniel O'Rourke.
The Papacy Is a Gift But Needs Repair
...says leading ecumenist Margaret O'Hara of the University of St. Michael's College in Toronto. By John L. Allen, Jr. (June 18/08).
1) Cardinal Castrillon on the Revival of the Tridentine Rite. By Elena Curti.
2) Followed by an editorial on this interview in The Tablet.
Priest Calls on Pope to Lift Celibacy Requirement
An interview with Donald Cozzens, author of "Freeing Celibacy". By Nicole Neroulias.
Tell Me...?
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--20
...about a boy and a man and God, and twinkies and root beer.
A New Foundation
A recap of the Eucharistic Congress in the context of a stirring renaissance for the long-beleaguered church in Quebec. By Fr. Raymiond de Souza.
Religious Life in the Age of Facebook
Where have all the young people gone? By Richard G. Malloy, S.J.
Pope John Paul II Complex and Contradictory
Perhaps the most telling thing about his papacy is that he has been mourned by millions who acted contrary to his directives. By Anna Quindlen.
Twenty-First Century Spirituality
Catholic Theologian John Haught Speaks with BustedHalo about Ecology, Religious Education and its Influences on Young People. By Rodric J. Bradford .
Three Stories on the Decision of the Anglican Church to Ordain Women as Bishops
...including the effect on its relationship with the Roman Catholic Church.
New-Style Church Being Born in France Due to Shortage of Priests
Perhaps what is already happening in the French Catholic Church is an indication of where Irish Catholicism is headed. By David Rice.
The Only Diet for a Peacemaker is a Vegetarian Diet
...including its role in eliminating world hunger and sustaining the environment. By John Dear, S.J.
New Campaign for Priests' Rights
Fr. Michael Higgins, an Irish priest now based in California, is the founder of 'Justice for Priests and Deacons'. By Michael Kelly.
Several Articles on the Ordination of Three Women as Priests
...performed by two women bishops in Boston on July 20, 2008.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--21
...about three good arguments that Jesus was...(you name it).
The Pope vs. The Pill
A reflection on the Church since the publication of the encyclical Humanae Vitae in 1968. By John L. Allen, Jr.
Matthew Fox Keyotes Inclusive Ministries Gathering
A report on the recent conference in Boston sponsored by four organizations dedicated to ministry, including CORPUS. By Regina Schulte.
The Little Flock
Reflections on Pope Benedict's notion that in the future the Church will be smaller. By Ted Schmidt.
Something Is Missing in This New Virtual Afterlife
Reactions to the exuberant display of defiance on You Tube in the face of death. By Ron Ferguson.
Signs of Life
A sociologist looks ahead. By Andrew M. Greeley.
Whose Church? A Concise Guide to Progressive Catholicism (New York: New Press, Whose Religion? Series, 2008) hardcover, 192 pp. $29.95 CAD, $23.95 USD
1) Noted social ethicist Dan Maguire explains what Catholicism actually says about good sex, women's equality, social justice, and the environment, plus 2) A review of the book by Ted Schmidt.
The Duty of Delight: The Diaries of Dorothy Day (Marquette U. Press, 2008) hardcover, 700 pp., $44.42 CAD, $42 USD
Made public now, 25 years after her death. Edited by Robert Ellserg.
Vatican Says "Yahweh" Not To Be Pronounced
Calls on practice used by first Christians. Commentary by Paul Kelly.
Labor Day - All Work Is Holy
A reflection on its true meaning. By Daniel O'Rourke.
Talking Sex and Power in the Catholic Church
An interview with Australian Bishop Geoffrey Robinson in Foreign Policy. By John Allen.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--22
...of clever quotes from famous people.
CATHOLICA, an Australian Journal of Our Church in the 21st Century
With a tribute to Robert Blair Kaiser and his website
www.takebackourchurch.org. By Paul Kelly.
Being Catholic Now: Prominent Americans Talk About Change in the Church and the Quest for Meaning by Kerry Kennedy (2008) hardcover, $24.95 USD
A Kennedy plumbs life as a Catholic. A review by Michael Paulson.
God As Universal Presence
Let us think of God as that universal presence that sustains and holds everything in existence - the Ground of All Being. By Michael Morwood.
Pro-Life Is Not A Single Issue
...a fact to be remembered as both the Amerucan and Canadian elections approach. An editorial in The Tablet.
Practising Spirutuality with The Dalai Lama
Remain serene and at eaae. By The Dalai Lama.
Letter from a Young Seminarian in Rome
...to the Women's Ordination Conference (WOC).
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--25
...about the preacher who got all wound up in the mike cord he was using.
Debate Over Role of 'Bishop' in Apostolic Succession Is Church-Dividing Issue
We must reject the simplistic, mechanistic notion of apostolic succession, or the passing-the-baton theory. By Richard P. McBrien.
Cafeteria Catholics
They struggle to understand and appreciate the most important and foundational teachings of the Church. By Father Jack Rathschmidt.
A Leper on the Edge of the Catholic Church
Fr. Jeff Doucette looked after three parished in New Brunswick, Canada. Today he is married, a leper who lives in hope. By Jeff Doucette.
A Call for a New Reformation
With 12 theses which the author is prepared to debate as we enter the third millenium. By Retired Bishop John S. Spong.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--23
...of pearls of dog wisdom.
Dean Hoge, Who Spent Decades Studying American Catholics, Dies
"No one has done more to understand the priesthood," said one colleague. By Thomas C. Fox.
'Priestless Sunday' on October 4-5, 2008 in Fairbanks, Alaska
Two stories.
The Church by Richard P. McBrien (N.Y.: Harper One, 2008) 528 pp., $29.95 USD
Constantly renewed. A review by Paul J. Fitzgerald, S.J.
Give Me A Sign
How do I know I'm doing God's will? By Renee M. LaReau.
Two Articles on Interfaith Relations:
1. What holds us together; and 2. French Muslims find haven in Catholic schools.
Who Needs A Lifeline? The Tablet Interview
Honduran Cardinal Oscar Rodriguez Maradiago, speaking at the United Nations on reducing world poverty, puts the credit collapse in perspective. By David Gibson.
Interview with Sr. Chris Schenk of FutureChurch
...a U.S.-based group that came to Rome during the latest Synod of Bishops to request greater attention to women in the Church.
Leaving the Priesthood
Testimony of many priests who have left, with posts. (
www.leavingthepriesthood.com)
Give Us This Day Our Daily Bread
A reflection on the use and misuse of food. By Daniel O'Rourke.
Disputed Truth: Memoir II by Hans Kung (Toronto: Novalis, 2008, $37.95 CAD, and London: Continuum, 2008, L30) 556 pp., hardcover
Theology's steadfast questioner. A review by John Wilkins.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--24
...about the little boy learning the commandment 'Thou shalt not steal.'
We Can Learn from Luther too, Says Top Cardinal
Cardinal Walter Kasper encourages Catholics to read Luther's commentaries on the Bible. By Ecumenical News International.
Final Propositions of the Synod of Bishops on the Bible (Section 1, nos. 1-46)
i.e., Synod of Bishops on "The Word of God in the Life and Mission of the Church," Oct 5-26, 2008.
Final Propositions of the Synod of Bishops on the Bible (Section 2, nos. 47-55)
Continuation of the previous item in the News section of this website Final Propositions of the Synod of Bishops on the Bible.
European Federation of Married Priests
Website of the European Federation of Married Priests, one of four federations which together make up the International Confederation of Married Priests. (
www.marriedpriests.eu)
Two Faiths, One Challenge
An editorial from The Tablet on the three-day inaugural meeting of the Catholic-Muslim Forum at the Vatican in November.
Defending the Faith Forty Years After Vatican II
A lament. By Joseph Dietrich, November 2008.
Women and Paul
Was Paul an egalitarian or a male chauvinist? By Barbara E. Reid
"Judas Priests"...
Is the priesthood as we've known it obsolete?
"Judas Priests"...
Is the priesthood as we've known it obsolete?
Is Time Money or Life?
Reflections in a time of financial crisis. By Daniel O'Rourke.
"Hope Emerges from the Ground Up"...
A report on a conference of theologians on Liberation Theology held in Chicago Oct 29-31, 2008. By John L. Allen, Jr.
1) A Report on the Congress in Vienna November 6-9, 2008 by Jack Shea, and; 2)...
2) The Final Statement from the International Federation for a Renewed Catholic Ministry "An Appeal from Vienna".
Ten Things Science Says Will Make You Happy
Your actions can have a significant effect on your happiness and satisfaction with life. By Jen Angel.
Waiting for the Light
Advent is a time that allows us to define what is human in a new way - in sharp contrast to the secularist vision of society. By James Hanvey.
Overturning the Tables: Consumerism, Children, and the Church (Toronto: United Church Publishing House, 2008) 192 pp., paperback, $10.95 CAD
Battling the cult of consumerism: relentless marketing can turn children into 'selfish shopaholics'. A review by Stuart Laidlaw, Faith and Ethics reporter, The Star.
A Profile of Thomas Merton
Remembering the late Trappist monk on the 40th anniversary of his untimely death on December 10, 1968. By Judy Valente, interviewer.
Ottawa Archbishop Lays Down Law on Kneeling
Church has larger concerns, opponents say. By Jennifer Green.
Merton Institute for Contemplative Living
Arouses interest in contemplative living through the works of Thomas Merton and promotes his vision for a just and peaceful world. (
www.mertoninstitute.org)
Anglicans Formalize Split
Conservative believers in U.S. and Canada cap years of dissent by forming own church. By Stuart Laidlaw.
'Doubt', a film about clerical sexual abuse by writer-director John Patrick Shanley (2008)
A review by Harry Forbes.
Is Christmas Christian?
This year we might be forced under duress to celebrate the feast of Jesus' humble birth with honesty. By Richard Rohr.
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas...
...is an Advent film which reminds us just what Jesus we are expecting. A review by Ted Schmidt.
Stuff Is Not Salvation
As the boom times fade, an important holiday question surfaces: why in the world did we buy all this junk in the first place? By Anna Quindlen.
Stuff Is Not Salvation
As the boom times fade, an important holiday question surfaces: why in the world did we buy all the junk in the first place? By Anna Quindlen.
Keepin
Keeping Watch by Night
A reflection on the Nativity of the Lord. By Joe Cece.
Fr. Marcial Maciel Disgraced
Legionaries of Christ founder said to have fathered a child, and Responses to this story. By Jason Berry.
Pope Orders Probe of Scandal-Plagued Religious Order
The Legionaries of Christ will be investigated in what is called an 'Apostolic Visitation'. By Philip Pullella.
Will the Real Jesus Please Stand Up?
A U.S.Catholic interview with Daniel Harrington, S.J.
"Food, Inc.": Documentary Expose of Our (the U.S. and Canada's) Food-Producing System
What's behind the way we eat. A review by Rich Heffern.
New Year's Resolutions
My foremost New Year's resolution is to be open to goodness and beauty around me no matter where or what the source...By Daniel O'Rourke.
Core Catholic Issues at Stake in Haight Fray
A recent Vatican move bars American Jesuit theologian Fr. Roger Haight from teaching and publishing. By John L. Allen, Jr.
Merton: Argonaut Exploring the Christian Soul
He was one of the most influential Catholics of the last century. By Rich Heffern.
Bernard Daly, Well-known Catholic Journalist, Dies of Cancer
He was one of the most influential lay members of the Catholic Church in Canada. By Joseph Sinasac, CR.
Fr. Richard John Neuhaus Dies
Pembroke, Ontario-born priest guided the American right. By Jennifer Green.
What Happened at Vatican II by John W. O'Malley (Cambridge, Mass.: Harvard U. Press, 2008) 400 pp, hardcover, $38.50 CAD
New book reaffirms depth of change wrought by Vatican II. A review by Peter S. Steinfels.
1) Pretty Woman by The Apostles Wives' Club, and
2) The story of a priest whose doomed love affair led to suicide, as well as 3) The testimony of the woman with whom he had fallen in love.
Kids and Old Geezers
On the affinity between the very young and the very old. By Hank Mattimore.
A Congress in Vienna
A report on the recent Congress of the North Atlantic Federation for a Renewed Catholic Priesthood. By Anthony T. Padovano, Corpus Ambassador.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--26
...about Shirley Goodnest and Marcy following Timmy to school every day.
Another Christmas Miracle
Reflection at the Corpus-NCR, CNWE, CCO, and Cosmology Group Christmas Party on January 3,2009. By Maurice Sullivan.
A Pastorally Sensible Solution to the Priest-Shortage
How the Roman Catholic Church in the United States (and Canada) can increase the number of its priests at home rather than importing them from abroad. By Fr. Richard McBrien.
Crossbearer: A Memoir of Faith by Joe Eszterhas (N.Y.: St. Martin's, 2008) hardcover, $24.95 USD
Hollywood screenwriter returns home. A review by James Carroll.
The Lefebvrite Case
What was the Vatican thinking? By John L. Allen, Jr.
Year of Astronomy: Big Bang or Black Hole?
What Christians can glean from the UN Celebration. By Elizabeth Lev.
Saint Valentine
There are lots of good stories about him that play nicely into our modern sense of what February 14 is about. By Stuart Laidlaw.
Mercy Me! A Psalm for Lent
Sometimes we all need to have a heart-to-heart with God and own up to our shortcomings. Psalm 51 shows us how to do it. By Sascha T. Moore.
Four Cultures of the West by John W. O'Malley, S.J. (Cambridge, Mass.: Harvard U. Press, 2004) 261 pp., hardcover, $24.95 USD
This is a gem of a book, a Vademecum. A review by Paul Kelly.
Thinking Faith
Thinking Faith is the Online Journal of the British Jesuits, operated by Jesuit Media Initiatives, a work of the British Province of the Society of Jesus. (www.thinkingfaith.org)
Press Release: Historic Move for U.S. Catholics
U.S. Catholic reform organizations, including Corpus, have formed the American Catholic Council (ACC) which will hold a national assembly in 2011. By Leonard Swidler.
The Vanier Letters, Part V
'Am I afraid of death? No, I cannot say I am.' A discussion between Globe and Mail writer Ian Brown and Jean Vanier, the Canadian-born founder of L'Arche.
Life and Death and Lent
Reflections for Ash Wednesday. By Daniel O'Rourke.
Faith Group Promotes Lenten Carbon Fast
Kairos, an ecumenitcal faith and justice group, is serving up Lenten tips to help people curb their energy consumption. By Mirko Petricevic.
An Open Letter to Luc Bouchard, Bishop of St. Paul Diocese in Alberta, Canada from Phil Little...
...and some newspaper stories on the connection between oil sands development and cancer.
The Birth of Jesus Our Shepherd Parish in Nenno, Wisconsin
...which is served by four married priests. By Shannon Rego.
Theologian Warns of Bleak Future for Church under Pope Benedict
Hans Kueng says he's saddened by the direction that the Catholic Church is taking.
In Due Season: A Catholic Life by Paul Wilkes (San Francisco: Jossey-Bass, 2009) 287pp., hardcover, $24.95 USD
Wilkes's autobiography is a spiritual classic. A review by Arthur Jones.
Restoroing Clerical Authority
...after decades of decline in the deference that Catholic laity display toward their clergy. By Richard McBrien.
1) Married Priests a Possibility Says Cardinal Egan, and
2) On Eve of Retirement, Cardinal Breathes Life Into Debate on Priestly Celibacy. By Paul Vitello.
A Question for Bishop Spong about Those Christians Who Cannot "tolerate the ambiguity of (his) message"
...and his answer. By John Shelby Spong.
Earth and Spirit: The Homely God Who Holds Us
The life and spirituality of Juliana of Norwich. By Rich Heffern.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--27
...about the Irish bagpiper who was asked to play at a graveside service for a homeless man.
1) Eighty-Year-Old Widower Is Ordained a Priest in Ottawa, and
2) Letter to the Editor of the Ottawa Citizen on This Ordination. By Jim Noonan.
Listen to Bishop Geoffrey Robinson of Australia on You Tube
...in an hour-long video lecture based on his book 'Confronting Power and Sex in the Catholic Church.'
Care for Creation: A Franciscan Spirituality of the Earth by Ilia Delio, OSF, Keith Douglass Warner, OFM, and Pamela Wood (Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, 2008) paperback, $18.95 USD, $23.33 CAD
Creation care: a return of love for love. A review by Teresa Malcolm, followed by an excerpt from the book.
Star Struck
A reflection on UNESCO's Year of Astronomy and its motto "The Universe--Yours to Discover". By the editors of America magazine.
The Smiling Christ
The final in a series in Lent. By Peter Schineller, S.J.
Practicing Catholic by James Carroll (New York: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2009) 385 pp., hardcover, $28.00 USD
The believer. A review by Jack Miles.
The Pope's annus horribilis
...as he celebrates the fourth anniversary of his election as the vicar of Christ. By Michael Higgins.
We Are All Healers
A response to the condemnation of Reiki therapy by the American bishops. By Dan O'Rourke.
A Farmer's Gift
An appreciation of Wendell Berry. By Kyle T. Kramer.
An Earthy Christology
'For God so loved the cosmos'. By Elizabeth A. Johnson.
Pope's Statement on Residential Schools Welcomed by Canada's First Nations Chief
Pontiff expresses sorrow for abuse, but 'apology' not delivered. By Peter O'Neil and Linda Nguyen.
Earth Day
12 spiritual practices to honor the earth. By Frederic and Mary Ann Brussat.
Easter Report 2009 from Joe Gubbels
...about his work in Chicha Baja, Peru.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--28
...about Sister Mary Ann's Catholic gasoline.
Four new women bishops are ordained in the United States
...and the three women bishops who ordained them. By Marjorie Maguire.
Susan Boyle's Performance on Britain's Got Talent as an Easter Event, and
...the words she sang from Les Miserables. By Jack Wentland.
Getting Close to the Kids
Being a surrogate grandparent to 22 kids is all about "being there". By Hank Mattimore.
The Gift of Years: Growing Older Gracefully by Joan Chittister (New York: BlueBridge, 2008) 240 pp, hardcover, $19.95 USD
"It's the best book I have read on the subject of aging" (Andrew Greeley). Comments and a summary of the book.
A Modest Proposal
...as the church prepares to observe the Year of the Priest, which begins on June 19. By the editors of America magazine.
Another Looming Roman Disaster
...over the forthcoming (in 18 months or so) English translation of the Catholic liturgy. By Paul Collins.
What Is Your Basic Understandng of Petitionary Prayer?
A question for Bishop Spong, and his answer. By John Shelby Spong.
1) Prayer on the Silencing of Theologian Robert Haight, SJ on May 11/09. By Leo O'Donovan, SJ; and
2) A reflection on this by a former Jesuit. By Paul Kelly.
Three Great Ironies of Benedict's Holy Land Visit
The most demanding high-wire act of his papacy. By John L. Allen, Jr.
Intentional Eucharistic Communities
A report on a recent conference in Washington, D.C. By Jack Shea.
Darwin at 200
His significance, and that of Freud and Marx. By Richard McBrien.
1) Damning Picture of Child Abuse in Irish Catholic Orders: Report. By Shawn Pogatchnik, and
2) Commentary on this Report of the Commission to Inquire Into Child Abuse. By Thomas Doyle.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--29
...about the woman who was married four times.
Abolition of Legionaries Should Be 'On the Table'
Baltimore archbishop welcomes Vatican probe of Maciel's order. By John L. Allen, Jr.
The Inevitable, Necessary Crisis
'Every 500 years institutionalized Christianity becomes an intolerable carapace that must be shattered'. By Tom Roberts
1)Thomas Berry, environmentalist-priest, dies; and
2)Thomas Berry 101: four key insights from his books and talks.
Churches Study Oilsands Impact
...want the Canadian government to review how Alberta's oilsands are affecting people and the enivrionment. By John Cotter.
Unconventional Converts
A brief reflection on conversions past and present. By A. James Rudin.
Looking Back In Gratitude
A conversation with Daniel Berrigan. By George M. Anderson.
Michael Jackson and Other Celebrities
What do they do FOR us? What do they do TO us? What do we do TO THEM? By Daniel O'Rourke.
Sisters Delivered the Church Vatican II Promised
An editorial from National Catholic Reporter online (June 8/09).
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--30
A cornucopia of Christian one-liners. With thanks to Phil Little.
Following Christ in a Consumer Society: The Spirituality of Cultural Resistance by John Kavanaugh, SJ (1981, 1991, 2006)
Spirituality in a time of deep recession. An interview with the author by Rich Heffern.
The Trust in Church Leaders Has Gone
The Ryan Report in Ireland has caused great hurt. By Fr. Brian D'Arcy, C.P.
Losing a Prophet
A tribute to Fr. Lawrence (Lorenzo) Rosebaugh, O.M.I. who was killed by masked gunmen in Guatemala on May 18, 2009. By Ron Rolheiser, O.M.I.
Prayer - Bromide or Tonic?
If there is no follow-through to prayers, they are stillborn. By Daniel O'Rourke.
Year for Priests, 2009-2010
A) Three articles from the Corpus Forum, and B) Women's Ordination Conference Statement on Vaticans's Year of the Priest.
The Papacy 1,000 Years Ago
Many Catholics believe that the papacy must always have been as they have known it. By Richard McBrien.
1) Questions Over Communion Raise Protocol Issues for PM. By Tim Shufelt; and
2) Newspaper apologizes for story that started Harper eucharist flap: New Brunswick daily dismisses editor, publisher. By Linda Nguyen.
A Pilgrim in a Pilgrim Church: Memoirs of a Catholic Archbishop by Rembert G. Weakland, OSB (Wm. B. Eerdmans, 2009) 433pp., $35USD
Seven years after being accused by Paul Marcoux on Good Moirning America of "date rape", Weakland has published his memoir. A review by William L. Portier.
Vatican Investigates Legionaries of Christ
The Catholic Church looks into cult allegations — and $1,000 hams. By Jason Berry.
Irish-American Writer Frank McCourt Dies on July 19 at the Age of 78
Three articles about him, and "A Communion Story" from Angela's Ashes by Frank McCourt.
A Map of the Future Church in the Eyes of Sr. Christine Schenk
Part of the "In Search of the Emerging Church" series. By Tom Roberts.
Caritas in Veritate: the Pope's New Social Encyclical
Fraternity and the modern age. By Clifford Longley.
"'Monastic in his [own] way': Thomas Merton and Leonard Cohen"
Presidential address to the International Thomas Merton Society. By Donald Grayston.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--31
...about the nun sitting in the airport, waiting for her flight to Chicago.
The Evolution of God by Robert Wright (2009) hardcover, $28.88 CAD, $25.99 USD
A profile from the Public Broadcasting Service of the United States, with excerpts from Bill Moyers's program Journal.
Pope Cites Teilhardian Vision of the Cosmos as a 'Living Host'
Is this the first stirring of an 'evolutionary leap' in the late Jesuit's official standing? By John L. Allen, Jr.
The Bishop's Man by Linden MacIntyre (Toronto: Random House of Canada, 2009)) $32 CAD
Smothering the scandals: Linden MacIntyre pens a powerful novel about priestly sexual abuse. A review by Paul Gessel.
Married - And Now a Priest
PEI man becomes exception to Roman Catholic Church rule. From the Canadian Press.
Scripture Studies at St. Patrick's, Markham, Ontario
The Tragedy of Irish Catholicism
An analysis of the Irish hierarchy's decades-long cover-up of priestly sexual abuse. By Ross Douthat.
Senior Moments
The spiritual side of getting older. By Peter Feuerherd.
Just Shy of Schism, Anglicans May Sub-Divide
Archbishop Rowan Williams says "two-track" model might allow traditionalists and progressives to co-exist. By Timothy C. Morgan.
Islam: Here and Now, as Ramadan Begins
Surrounded by suspicion and ambivalence, Otttawa Muslims wonder, When will we belong? And on whose terms? By Jennifer Green.
Just Say, "Thank you"--No Excuses
Why is it so difficult for some of us to accept genuine complimments? By Daniel O'Rourke.
Of Art, and Trees, and Lessons About Life
Reflections on Joyce Kilmer's poem "Trees". By James Carroll.
Monthly Discussions of the Writings of St. John of the Cross
A Course in Mysticism, based on "The Dark Night of the Soul," by John of the Cross, O.C.D., translated by Mirabai Star, is being discussed (at no charge) at Crescent Fort Rouge United Church, 525 Wardlaw St., Winnipeg, Manitoba at 1:30 p.m. on Monday, June 27, 2011. For more information, telephone 204-487-3553 or email: ADELINE.LEONARD.SCHMIDT@SHAW.CA. N.B. This is the last lecture after five years of the course.
The Battle for God by Karen Armstrong (N.Y.; Ballantine Books, 2001) 427pp., paperback, $15.95 USD
Armstrong's treatment of fundamentalism in religion. A review by Brian Coyne.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--32
...about a child's summary of the whole Bible.
Cardinal Bertone: It's Time to Reach Out to Ex-Priests
Note: This is an important statement for all who have left the clerical priesthood, for whatever reason. Editor.
Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls, in Rome
Up-to-date information on this Basilica and on St. Paul. (www.basilicasanpaolo.org)
The Sisters of Sinai: How Two Lady Adventurers Discovered the Hidden Gospels by Janet Soskice (NY: Alfred A. Knopf, 2009) 336 pp., hardcover, $27.95 USD. Illustrated.
The true story of identical Scottish twins, whose travels to St. Catherine's Monastery in the Sinai Desert resulted in the discovery of one of the oldest manuscripts of the Gospels ever found. A review by Caroline Alexander.
Time to Put the Celibacy Issue to Bed in the Name of the Fathers
The fathering of a child in rural east Galway by a septuagenarian priest with a young schoolteacher has once more thrown the celibacy issue to the fore.
1) Alternate Thoughts for this Year for Priests by Richard McBrien, and
2) One of the latest developments inside the Vatican which underscores the point of the above column. By Richard McBrien.
Those Vatican II Priests
...fighting the good fight to the end. By Pat Marrin.
Ted Kennedy, Bill Clinton, John Profumo and Redemption
That's the message of these days in the Jewish calendar. By Rabbi Dow Marmur.
The God Who Beckons
Recent discoveries in science have given us a new picture of the divine creator. By Joan Chittister.
Dating the Jesus of History
Part of a new series entitled The Origins of the New Testament. By Bishop John Spong.
A Program on Global TV in Canada on a Married Priesthood
On Sunday, October 4 at 6:30 - 7 p.m. (ET/CT) and 7-7:30 p.m. (AT/MT/PT) on the series 16X9: The Bigger Picture. The program is repeated at 11:30 p.m.-12 midnight (ET- I don't know about the other times zones) on the same day. The program was occasioned by the ordination to the Catholic priesthood of a married Anglican priest - Martin Carter - in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island on August 9, 2009.
The New Testament Gateway
The award-winning directory of internet resources on the New Testament (NTGateway.com).
Proposals for Changes in Ministry
...adopted at a meeting of the Executive Committee of the International Federation for a Renewed Catholic Ministry in Dublin, Ireland, October 16, 2009.
More Respnses to the Vatican's Invitation to Anglicans
1) The Vatican thirst for power divides Christianity and damages Catholicism. by Hans Kung; 2) Pope's Anglican welcome could revolutionize the Church, by Thomas J. Reese, S.J.; 3) The crisis in Anglicanism revisited, by Fr. Richard P. McBrien; 4) Vatican keeps celibacy in rules on Anglicans.
Haiti and God
Religious responses to the devastating earthquake in Haiti. By James Carroll.
Capitalism: A Love Story. A film by Michael Moore.
Moore's new film on capitalism explicit in Catholic themes. By Sr. Rose Pacatte.
1) Former Catholic Bishop of Antigonish, Nova Scotia Is Charged with Possession and Importation of Child Pornography; and
2) Catholics shocked by charges against Bishop Lahey.
The Case for God by Karen Armstrong (NY: Alfred A. Knopf, 2009) 406 pp., hardcover, $27.95 USD, $34.95 CAD
Perpetual revelations, A review by Ross Douthat.
When Priests Leave the Church
How common is Alberto Cutie's journey to Protestant ministry? By Rev. Stephen Fichter.
The Glad Scientist
A Vatican astronomer explains why science and religion are a match made in heaven. By Dan Falk.
The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown (NY: Doubleday, 2009) 509 pp., hardcover, $29.95 USD, $36.95 CAD. Illustrated.
Capital Secrets: The new Dan Brown puzzler is the scariest one yet. A review by Maureen Dowd.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--33
Excerpts from The Book of Catholic Jokes by Tom Sheridan.
Rome Reports
Video news from Rome about the Church around the world (Romereports.com).
An Open Letter to Cardinal Hummes. Prefect of the Congregation for the Clergy
...about his new power to dismiss from the priesthood and release from the obligation of celibacy certrain priests...From John Horan.
Vatican Reveals Plan to Welcome Disaffected Anglicans
Married priests to be part of the deal in new 'personal ordinatiates'. By John L. Allen, Jr.
As the Saying Goes, Just Showing Up Is Half the Battle
My response to the Village kids' request, "Are you gonna watch me?" By Hank Mattimore.
A Steady, Ever Renewable Stream of Saints
Unfortunately, the great majority of saints the Church has canonized are celibate priests and nuns. By Fr. Richard P. McBrien.
Three Responses to the Vatican's Welcome to Disaffected Anglicans
1) Offer raises idea of marriage for Catholic priests, by Rachel Donadio; 2) Catholics request married priests for everyone, not just Anglican converts, by Future Church; 3) From the Vatican, a tainted olive branch, by James Carroll.
1) The Apostolic Constitution "Anglicanorum Coetibus" ("To Groups of Anglicans")
...which introduces a canonical structure that will allow groups of Anglicans to enter into full communion with the Catholic Church, and; 2) Complementary Norms for the Anglican Constitution.
The Future Church: How Ten Trends Are Revolutionizing the Catholic Church by John L. Allen, Jr. (NY: Doubleday, 2009) $28 USD
A new Catholic horiizon. A review by John W. O'Malley, S.J.
Beneath the Mask of Holiness: Thomas Merton and the Forbidden Love Affair That Set Him Free by Mark Shaw (NY: Macmillan, 2009) 256 pp, hardcover, $27.00 USD
An invitation from the author of this new biopgrahy, Mark Shaw.
Hope Among Thorns: A Look Back at Cardinal Basil Hume
After Vatican II, Cardinal Hume achieved transition while preserving continuity. By John Wilkins.
The School of Prophets
Reflections on the qualities required of prophets in our time. By John Dear, S.J.
In the Diocese of Antigonish, Faith Takes a Beating
Even after serial betrayals by the clergy, a priest in the Nova Scotia diocese still occupies a pedestal of unusual prestige. By Linden MacIntyre.
Discerning Ministerial Religious Life Today
The past and future of ministerial religious life. By Sandra M. Schneiders.
1) It's Time We Chose Priests for Their God-Given Talent. By Fr. Brian D'Arcy, C.P.; and
2) 'How can any normal priest go through 40 or 50 years and not fall in love?' From the Clerical Whispers blogspot.
Church in Dublin 'routinely covered up' child sexual abuse for 30 years
Reactions to the Report of the Comission of Investigation into the Catholic Archdiocese of Dublin. By Carl O'Brien and Patsy McGarry.
Fresh Talks Aim to Repair Damage to Catholic-Anglican Relations
...following the Vatican's invitation to disaffedted Anglicans. By Abigail Frymann.
Kairos Fights CIDA cuts
...though Kairos acts on behalf of 13 of Canada's major churches or church-based organizations. By Dennis Greunding.
Vatican Signals Irish Church Faces Major Overhaul
...following a meeting between Pope Benedict and senior Church officials. By Patsy McGarry and Paddy Agnew.
The eternal christ in the cosmic story
A discussion with Fr. Richard Rohr. By Rich Heffern.
Prophetic Principle Lacking in Canadian Catholic Response to Copenhagen
A statement by the Editorial Group of New Catholic Times (Toronto).
The Naked Now: Learning to See as the Mystics See by Richard Rohr (NY: Crossroads Pub. Co., 2009) $19.95 USD
Reality's clash of contradictions. A review by Rich Heffern.
Theoligian Edward Schillebeeckx Deat at 95
He was a towering Dominican theologian and advocate of Vatican II reform. By Margaret McClory.
Vatican Moves John Paul II and Pius XII Closer to Sainthood
Two-for-one strategy unveiled. By John L. Allen Jr.
Religion, Science, and the Solstice
For most of history religion was not taken to be a flight from rationaity, but a mode of it. By James Carroll.
The Vatican's Bold Outreach to Anglicans
Why could it not do the same for other churches in the Body of Christ? By Richard McBrien.
Ireland Confronts Its Sex Abuse Crisis
'Massive agitation...a seething anger among traditional, ordinary Catholics'. By Tom Roberts.
The Origins of the New Testament
Part IX: Paul on the final events in Jesus' life; Part X: Resurrection according to Paul - I Corinthians. By Bishop John Shelby Spong.
Three Obituaries from Mirabile Dictu
1) Francis McGillicuddy; 2) Mary Daly; 3) James Kavanaugh.
Towards a Humble Church
Dublin diocese and child abuse. By Timothy Radcliffe, o.p.
Eternal Life: A New Vision Beyond Religion, Beyond Theism, Beyond Heaven and Hell by John Shelby Spong (NY: HarperOne, 2009) hardcover, $24.99 USD
A review by Frederic and Mary Ann Brussat.
Fraternal Orders
Good counsel for young clergy from their senior brothers. By David A. Rubino.
Religious Life as Prophetic Life Form and the Task of Prophetic Action - Parts 1-3
A five-part series on religious life. N.B. Parts 4-5 are in the following item. By Sr. Sandra Schneiders.
Preaching to Bishops
An undertaker's view. By Thomas Lynch.
The Tree of Life, a film by Terrence Malick
Childhood, God and eternal creation: this brilliant film weaves a complex web. A review by Jay Stone.
Catholics in Belgium Start Parishes of Their Own
An alternative Catholic Church exists in Buizinger, Belgium. By Doreen Carvajal.
Religious Life as Prophetic Life Form and the Task of Prophetic Action - Parts 4-5
A five-part series on religious life. N.B. Parts 1-3 are in the preceding item. By Sr. Sandra Schneiders.
'Invictus', a film directed by Clint Eastwood, and starring Morgan Freeman and Matt Damon
What effective leadership looks like and how this movie relates to the Catholic Church. By Richard McBrien.
Etty Hillesum: Essential Writings, edited by Annemarie S. Kidder (Orbis books Modern Spiritual Masters series, 2009) $18 USD
Etty Hillesum's inner journey. A review by John Dear, S.J.
Nobel Peace Prize Nominee Faces Ex-Communication for Support of Catholic Women Priests
Fr. Roy Bourgeois has joined forces with supporters of Women's Ordination. By Greg Archer.
Haiti: The Rest of the Story Is Ours
A look at the tragic history of Haiti and its future after the recent earthquake. By Sr. Joan Chittister.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--34
...about the pet centipede who wanted to go to church.
The Tao of Liberation: Exploring the Ecology of Transformation (Orbis Books, 2009)
An overview and a review from the Earth Charter Initiative.
What Point Is There In Suffering?
Lent is the season that teaches us that darkness may overtake us but will not overcome good. By Sr. Joan Chittister.
Valentine's Day and Romantic Love
Some thoughts on romantic love and lasting love. By Daniel O'Rourke.
Ordained: I Have Chosen You, a novel by L.C. Anthony (Singing River Publications, 2010) $18.95 USD
How the remotely possible could become real. A review by Maureen E. Daly.
Lent and the Charter for Compassion
With the text of the Charter drafted by Karen Armstrong and other religious leaders. By John Dear, S.J.
1) Final Statement of Pope-Irish Bishops Meeting, and
2) Pope Calls Priestly Sex Abuse 'Heinous Crime'.
Pope Approves Sainthood for Montreal's Brother Andre
Formal canonization is set for October 17, 2010.
John Paul II's Penitential Practices, and
Competing Narratives about Sanctity in the Postmodern Church. By William Lindsey.
Are Liberals in the Church Dying or Hiding?
An Editorial from the National Catholic Reporter online.
Breaking Away from the Parish Church:
A sign of spiritual growth or a step towards further division? By Hank Mattimore.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--35
Vignettes of children, the Bible, and prayer.
A Feminist's Feminist
Remembering Mary Daly, 1928-2010. By Mary E. Hunt.
100 Anglican Parishes To Join Catholic Church
...in response to the Pope's invitation in 'Anglicanorum Coetibus' ('To Groups of Anglicans'). By Catholic News Service.
David Tracy on God
A summary of an article by David Gibson in Commonweal (Jan. 29/10) on the American theologian. By Richard McBrien.
Celibacy: Neither Healthy nor Helpful for the Future of Vocations
A contribution to the Young Voices column of the National Catholic Reporter online. By Jamie L. Manson.
Fr. Hans Kung Blames Catholic Views on Sex for Clerical Church Abuse
Also says compulsory celibacy is the princpal reason for today's catastrophic shortage of priests. By Ruth Gledhill.
Romero's Resurrection
A tribute to Archbishop Oscar Romero of El Salvador to mark the 30th anniversary of his assassination on March 24, 1980. By John Dear, S.J.
Full Text of Benedict XVI's Pastoral Letter to the Catholics of Ireland, issued on March 19, 2010
Regarding the abuse of children by members of the Church in Ireland.
Changes to Missal Trigger Clash of Cultures
Archbishop Terrence Prendergast of Ottawa is on the committee to oversee a new translation of the Roman Missal. By Jennifer Green.
Will Ratzinger's Past Trump Benedict's Present?
The pope and the sex abuse crisis. By John L. Allen, Jr.
Diminishment As We Age
But the trials of aging do not deter us from making our contributions. By Daniel O'Rourke.
Reclaiming Catholicism: Treasures Old and New edited by Thomas H. Groome and Michael J. Daley (Orbis Books, 2010) $22 USD
Essays by some of the most prominent Catholic theologians of the late 20th and early 21st centures. A review by Tracy Sayuki Tiemeier.
The Green Jesus: The Meaning of Easter
An item from the Quaker publication Friends Journal.
The Old Man and the Dog
A story of redemption. By Catherine Moore.
From The Phenomenon of Man to The Pagan Christ
The spiritual journey of a married Canadian priest now living in India. By Dan Driscoll.
A Protestant Viewpoint on the Catholic Priesthood
As the Catholic Church faces a crisis over its priests and leadership. By Episcopalian priest George Smith.
Religious Life: Another Opinion About Its Scriptural Underpinnings
Capuchin Father Miichael Crosby reacts to the essay on religious life written for NCR by Sr. Sandra Schneiders.
Church in Worst Credibility Crisis Since the Reformation, Theologian Tells Bishops
An open letter to all Catholic bishops. By Hans Kung.
Church's Response to the Abuse of Minors
A new section of the Vatican website consisting of Pontifical and other documents outlining the Church's response to the current crisis (www.vatican.va/resources/index_en).
We All Lose in the War Against Nature
Through wanton destruction of species and significant alteration of the planet's climate, humans are ushering in a new geological era. By Stephen Bede Scharper.
Vocations Website
U.S. bishops launch vocational promotion website (
www.ForYourVocation.com).
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--36
Bloopers that actually appeared in church bulletins.
Extend the Hand of Healing and Justice
Benedict's papacy is in real danger of being defined by the clerical sex abuse crisis. By Michael Higgins.
Jesus: A Biography from a Believer by Paul Johnson (Viking, 2010) $31 CAD
Who was Jesus? From a believer. A review by Lorenzo DiTommaso.
Secret Sex in the Celibate System
Part of a series in the National Catholic Reporter examining the sex abuse crisis in the Catholic Church. By A. W. Richard Sipe.
Critique of Pope Benedict XVI by Hans Kung: A Response from the Vatican, and
An open letter to Hans Kung. By George Weigel.
Catholics Come Home
An apostolate in the New Evangelization program (www.catholicscomehome.org).
Bless Me Father
Priest who left and married is reinstated by bishop, and marries his son. By John Fallon.
Daniel Berrigan at 89
To celebrate this friend and peacemaker, I offer this week excerpts from my long introduction to a great new anthology which I just published with Orbis Books, Daniel Berrigan: Essential Writings. By John Dear, S.J.
Who Can Mock This Church?
If the top of the church has strayed from its roots, much of its base is still deeply inspiring. By Nicholas D. Kristof.
The Journal Keeper: A Memoir by Phyllis Theroux (Atlantic Monthly Press, 2010) $24 USD
The bright details of a life with a spiritual side. A review by Diane Scharper.
Sermon on the Mount: The First Gathering of Cafeteria Catholics
Part of the series Bulletins from the Human Side. By Eugene Cullen Kennedy.
Celibacy and the Catholic Priest
Celibacy cuts to the heart of what is wrong in the Catholic Church today. By James Carroll.
R.I.P. Helen Dubrule (1921-2010)
A Tribute to Former Corpus-NCR Member Helen Dubrule. By Maureen McIntyre.
R.I.P. Jean James (1930-2010)
1) An Obituary for Former Corpus-NCR Member Jean James. By Jim Noonan; 2) A Woman Called: A Eulogy for Jean James. By Sharon Gravelle.
The Future of the Catholic Church in Ireland
Speaking Notes of Most Rev. Diarmuid Martin, Archbishop of Dublin and Primate of Ireland.
Should I Stay or Should I Go?
A personal response to the clerical-abuse scandal. By Timothy Radcliffe.
To Be Fully Human: Fr. Ron Rolheiser, O.M.I. Gets to the Essentials
Priest and writer's concern with our core experiences resonates with a wide cross-section of Catholics. By John L. Allen, Jr.
Cardinal Schonborn Attacks Cardinal Sodano
...for calling the reports of clerical sex abuse "petty gossip", and urges church reforms. By Christa Pongratz-Lippitt.
Sex Abuse Crisis 'terrifying' Pope Says
...and that the greatest persecution of the church comes not from external attacks but from sin within the church. By John L. Allen, Jr.
Tell Me If You've Heard This One--37
...about the Italian secret to a long marriage.
Ottawa Archbishop to Examine Irish Abuse
Senior clerics assigned to calm discontent of church scandals. By Jennifer Green.
Lector Preparation/Lector's Notes
A close look at the upcoming Sunday readings, focusing on the lector's proclamation (www.lectorprep.org).
The Rule of Benedict: A Spirituality for the 21st Century, 2nd edition, by Joan Chittister (Crossroad, 2010) 192pp., paper, $16.95 USD
An introduction to this 2nd edition. By Joan Chittister.
Banned by the Pope
Charles E. Curran reflects on what has changed since he was banned from teaching theology at Catholic University in Washington, D.C. in 1986.
The Philosophy of Middle Earth
A professor at Saint Paul University in Ottawa is teaching a course on ethics using Tolkien's epic trilogy. By Jennifer Green.
The Feast of Franz Jagerstatter
The homily preached on May 20, 2010 in Jagerstatter's hometown of St. Sankt Radegund, Austria. By Bishop Thomas Gumbleton.
Catholic Renewal Can Be a Spiritual Practice
Compromised hierarchy needs relational wisdom of women. By Charlene Spretnak.
Ideas In Passing
Thoughts matter. By Joan Chittister.
Emerging Church: 'laypeople, future of missions'
Doctor among those who have led the way for lay msssioners world. By Tom Roberts.
Federation of Christian Ministries
New paradigms of ministry serving the people of God. (
www.federationofchristianministries.org)
Grandpa to a Children's Village by Hank Mattimore (Thiensville, Wisconsin: Caritas Communications, 2010) 125pp., paperback, $12.95 USD
A warm and engaging story of how an older man reaches out in love to a new generation of children. By David Gawlik.
Fr. Roy Bourgeois' Letter to his Maryknoll Community
On May 24, 2010 Roy Bourgeois sent this letter on women's ordination to his Maryknoll community. By Roy Bourgeois, M.M.
Quebec Cardinal Gets Top Post in Vatican
Marc Ouellet is appointed prefect of the powerful Congregation of Bishops. By Canswest News Service.
By Any Criteria, Unexplained Healing Is Miraculous
Dr. Jacalyn Duffin doesn't believe in God, but she does believe in miracles. By Jennifer Green.
Camino de Santiago
This site combines panoramic images for a 360 degree view of locations on the Way of St. James in France and Spain. (caminodesantiago.cc)
We Honor the Ministry of William Callahan
Champion of peace and justice dies in Washington, D.C. at the age of 78. By Maureen Fiedler.
If Celibacy Is Such A Jewel, Why Won't the Pope Let Us Look At It?
If celibacy is so self-evidently wonderful, why are Church officials so defensive about it? By Eugene Cullen Kennedy.
Salt and Light TV
Salt and Light Catholic Media Foundation and Television Network in Canada. (www.saltandlighttv.org)
Cardinal Murphy O'Connor Addresses Ireland's Priests
"The Greatest Wound...in This Present Crisis is the Betrayal of Love." By Cardinal Murphy O'Connor.
Press Release from Corpus USA, July 12, 2010
...in response to the Vatican document which includes the ordination of women among other very serious offences (delicta graviora).
The Jesus Controversy
Why historical scholarship cannot find the living Jesus. By Luke Timothy Johnson.
Kevin Dowling: A Bishop for Our Times
A South African bishop offers hope for a tired institution. An editorial from New Catholic Times: Sensus Fidelium.
Beneath the Child Abuse Scandal
...is a clerical world of sexual reality. Besides avoidance and denial of that reality is a system of moral disbelief sustaining the crisis. By A.W. Richard Sipe.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--38
...about a mother's and a father's answers to the question, "How did the human race appear?"
Women Leaders and the Catholic Church:
Will women be ordained leaders in the Catholic Church? By John Wijngaards.
The Bishop-Maker
Who is Canadian Cardinal Marc Ouellet, the new Prefect of the Congregation for Bishops? By Michael W. Higgins.
Catholic News Agency
A Catholic news agency based in the United States (www.catholicnewsagency.com).
Canadian Anglican Church Votes to Unite with Rome
...through the Apostolic Constitution "Anglicanorum Coetibus" created by Pope Benedict XVi.
Zambia: Archbishop Milingo to be Installed as Patriarch of Africa
...in charge of the southern African region.
The Origins of the New Testament, Part XXXIII: The Gospel of John
In reading John one must always keep in mind that the author is not writing history or biography. By Bishop John Shelby Spong.
'In the fullness of time, God's purpose will be revealed'
Edited portions of a talk "Woman, Why Are You Weeping?" By Sr. Theresa Kane.
Eternal Word Television Network
This global Catholic television network from the United States has a website and a radio network. (www.ewtn.com)
With 1000 Anglican Converts, Ordinariate Gets Going
No one knows what the future holds. People are waiting to see how the ordinariate in England progresses, and what the Church of England does next. By John Wilkins.
Eat. Pray. Love. Alas.
There are some books that should never be made into movies. This is one of them. A review by Sr. Rose Pacatte.
The Spiritual Side of Getting Older
What the world sees as an ending can be a renewed beginning in exploring the spiritual life. By Peter Feuerherd.
The Georgetown Center for Liturgy
Working for a transformed Church through a renewed liturgy. (www.centerforliturgy.georgetown.edu)
The Jesus of History: Two Scholars Respond to Luke Timothy Johnson
...whose article 'The Jesus Controversy' appeared in the July 2010 edition of this website, and may be seen directly before the present article.
Pope Benedict XVI Will Visit England September 16-19, 2010
...during which he will beatify Cardinal John Henry Newman on September 19.
Ireland's Sons Turn Their Backs on the Priesthood
The number of priestly vocations in Ireland has dipped below England and Walesw for the first time in living memory, new figures reveal. By Jerome Taylor.
More Canadians Believe in Heaven than in Hell, Poll Shows
...in a detailed, nationwide survey this year. By Randy Boswell.
Some Bishops Questioning Clerical Culture
Bishops in various parts of the world have raised provocative questions about whether clerical culture has either caused or abetted the priest sex abuse tragedy. By Tom Roberts.
1) Stephen Hawking Says Universe Not Created By God
2) But Chief Rabbi challenges Hawking in row over origins of the universe. By Riazat Butt.
A Letter in Response to Bishop Spong's Comments on the Historicity of the Gospel of John
...in the article directly below from the August issue of this website. By Heinz-Jurgen Vogels.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--39
Some clerical jokes from a simpler era.
Trent Launches World Revolution in Theology
It just may be that in the summer of 2010, Trent did it again. By John L. Allen Jr.
Newman's Unquiet Grave: The Reluctant Saint by John Cornwell (New York: Continuum, 2010) $24.95 USD
He even prayed 'with a pen in his hand'. A review by Peter L'Estrange.
Brother Andre: Friend of the Suffering, Apostle of St. Joseph by Jean-Guy Dubuc (Ave Maria Press, 2010) $16.95 USD
Alfred Bessete (1845-1937), aka Broher Andre, will be canonized on October 17, 2010. This book introduces the French-Canadian Bessette to an international audience. A review by Diane Scharper.
John Henry Newman and the Primacy of Conscience
With the beatification of John Henry Newman, it is timely to recall how he dealt with a Victorian version of a challenge to the primacy of conscience. An editorial from The Tablet.
'We All Married the Wrong Person'
An interview with psychiatrist and author Dr. Scott Haltzman, MD.
Reform of the Reform Secularizes the Sacred
Some comments on the coming changes in the English translation of the Mass. By Eugene Cullen Kennedy.
Getting Reacquainted with Satan
A Carleton University (Ottawa) professor throws new light on the Prince of Darkness. By Jennifer Green.
The Reality of Celibate Life:
Reflections from Henri Nouwen. By A.W. Richard Sipe.
Sophia: The Hidden Christ of Thomas Merton (2010) 313 pp. plus index, hardcover, $29.95 USD
Living our theology with Merton's feminine image of God. A review by John Dear, S.J.
Being Thankful for What We Give
Some thoughts for Thanksgiving Day (October 11 in Canada; November 25 in the United States). By Hank Mattimore.
Young Adult Catholics
A blog dedicated to the progressive, faifhful, Catholic voices of 20- and 30-year-olds. (youngadultcatholcs-blog.com)
Newman Still Commands Our Attention
An editorial from the National Catholic Reporter.
Memories of a Little Girl from Holy Cross Parish in Fiieldville, Quebec
...on the church's 70th anniversary. By Norma Noonan.
Pope, in Letter, Takes on Celibacy Debate
For the first time he wades into the debate over whether priestly celibacy is partly to blame for the sexual-abuse crisis in the Church. By Steve Meichtry.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--40
...about Catholic shampoo.
'A friend, a brother, a saint'
At the new saint's canonization, the Pope urges Canadian Catholics to follow Brother Andre's 'shining example'. By Andy Riga.
Memories of My Brother Andrew Greeley
...after he sustained serious head injuries two years ago when he was dragged along the ground after his coat got stuck in a taxi door. By Eugene Cullen Kennedy.
The Feast of St. Francis of Assisi
A meditation on his life from My Life with the Saints. By James Martin, S.J.
Remembering Pope John 23rd on His Feast Day
On October 11th, we remember the feast of a Pope from the last century and the opening of Vatican II. By Thomas Rosica, C.S.B.
Authors Reach for a Sense of the Sacred
A review of five books on modern spirituality. By Diane Scharper.
Pope Benedict Gets the Celibacy Question Backward
There is no evidence that celibacy gives seminarians an opportunity to achieve the ideal of "authentic, pure and mature humanity." By Eugene Cullen Kennedy. See the item below "Pope, in Letter..."
Daily Scripture Reflections
We offer daily reflections on the scripture as specified in the liturgical calendar. These brief audio presentations are a great way to connect to the Word of God on a frequent basis as they attempt to offer a deeper understanding of scripture coupled with its practical application to our lives. (www.franciscans.org)
Chittister: One of a Kind at Call To Action Gathering
She takes an audience into the ashes and then lifts them into the heavens. By Thomas C. Fox.
The 'Straight Arrow' Theologian and the Pope
An interview with Hans Kung. By John Wilkins.
What Do We 'get out of' Going to Church on Sunday?
Is that the point?...what you get out of it? By Hank Mattimore.
On the Anniversary of the Reformation, It's Time to Get Ecumenical
It's possible now to argue that Christianity might be better off today had the Reformation never occurred. By Bill Tammeus.
Pope Benedict Talks Condoms, Sex Abuse, Resignation...and Movie Nights
...in his new book The Pope, the Church, and the Signs of the Times. By John L. Allen Jr.
Encounters with Freedom
An address on Vatican Two to the Corpus Conference in Dallas, Texas in June 2010. By Anthony Padovano.
In Memory of Kevin Coyle 1943-2010
...a married priest who taught theology at Saint Paul University in Ottawa. By Jim Noonan.
Full of Grace: Encountering Mary in Faith, Art, and Life by Judith Dupre (New York: Random House, 2010) $40 USD
The mystery and beauty of God's mother. A review by James Heft.
John O'Donohue and the Inner Landscape of Beauty
Introduction to a radio interview with him shortly before his death in 2008. By Krista Tiopett.
The Three Advents
A meditation on the season of Advent based on Bernard of Clairvaux and Thomas Merton. By James Conner, OCSO.
Our Lady of Guadalupe Spoke the Peasant's Language
...when she appeared to Juan Diego near Mexico City almost 500 years ago. By James Carroll.
Religious Implications of Recent Discoveries in Science
A few thoughts on how we relate these discoveries to the realm of faith. By Diarmuid O'Murchu.
A Religion of the Afterlife
A Christmas story about social justice. By Robert Kippley.
Christmas Bell
A collection of quotations from scripture about 'who I am' in the shape of a bell for the Advent and Christmas season.
Christpower
Bishop Spong's telling of the Christmas story in poetry. By John Shelby Spong.
Christmas: A Multilayered Feast
Modern society has created a cultural monster, but before Scrooge-like we reject it out-of-hand, we should remember that Christmas is a multi-layered feast. By Daniel O'Rourke.
Vision: From the Life of Hildegard of Bingen, a film by Margarethe Von Trotta
A woman of love who humbly initiated change. A review by Sr. Rose Pacatte.
Once-Sidelined Joseph Becoming a Model of Honourable Fatherhood
Joseph, the paternal guardian of Jesus, is, by and large, an historical footnote, the odd man out. But slowly Joseph's reputation is being revived, by Christians and others. By Douglas Todd.
'Imagine Better': Can Harry Potter Change the World?
An analysis of the Harry Potter Alliance, an organization whose mission is to draw on the language and lessons of Harry Potter to create real world social change. By B. Howell Belser.
1) Gambling with History: Benedict XVI and the Legion of Christ, by Jason Berry; and
2) Truth and A Call to Renewal. An NCR Editorial on the Legion of Christ.
The Ticking Time Bomb of Lay Involvement
...and the explosion of one couple's top ten suggestions for newly-ordained priests. By Joan Chittister.
International Federation for a Renewed Catholic Ministry
The International Federation for a Renewed Catholic Ministry is an association of groups concerned with the renewal of all forms of ministry in the Catholic Church. The mission, goals and objectives of the IFRCM are the renewal of the Church. (
www.renewedcatholicministry.org) It was formerly known as the North Atlantic Federation for a Renewed Catholic Priesthood.
Marshall McLuhan: You Know Nothing of My Work! by Douglas Coupland (Atlas & Co., 2010) 216 pp., $24 USD
Marshall McLuhan: Media Savant. A review by David Carr.
Reflections on an Ordination Golden Anniversary
We are the Gaudium et Spes priests...We were ordained between 1955 and 1975...We took Vatican II to heart. By Eric Hodgens, Melbourne, Australia.
aTell Me If You've Heard This One--41
...about the formula for a successful marriage.
Prophet of the Earth: An Exploration of the Thought of Fr. Thomas Berry
A series of articles that will explore his thought and writings. By Rich Heffern.
Vatican Announces May 1, 2011 Beatification Date for John Paul II
...while critics have raised questions about the case for declaring him a saint, and the speed with which it has occurred. By John L. Allen Jr.
First Priests Ordained to New Catholic Church Structure for Former Anglicans
The Personal Ordinariate of Our Lady of Walsingham is an official jurisdiction for members of the Church of England opting for full communion with the Catholic Church. By Alan Holdren.
The Open Tabernacle: Here Comes Everybody
The Open Tabernacle is a website dedicated to Catholic Christianity as a journey of exploration and not a map to a particular final destination. Everyone is welcome to help with the journey. There are no tolls, one-way highways, or preferred vehicles. There are no speed limits, license requirements, or assurances. There will be back roads, seldom used byways, and plenty of bumpy rutty roads. At times a shovel may be necessary and more often a personal compass, but hopefully Open Tabernacle will be a challenging journey worth the effort. (www.opentabernacle.wordress.com)
The Puppet and the Cricket: The Value of Silence
"Silence is the language of God; all else is poor translation." By Rich Heffern.
Saying Bishoops 'scared,' Panelists Urge Laity to Take Lead
Panelists at a recent Woodstock forum in Philadelphia urged lay Catholics to grab the reins and set the course for the church’s future. By Jerry Filteau.
God Rewards Us For So Little Effort
Entries from the diaries of Dorothy Day (1878-1980), the founder with Peter Maurin of the Catholic Worker Movement. In 1934, Day had been a Catholic for just six years and the Catholic Worker was just one year old. By Dorothy Day
Absolute Monarchs: A History of the Papacy by John Julius Norwich (New York: Random House, 2011) 512 pages, $30 USD, Illustrated
1) 2000 years of popes, sacred and profane. A review by Bill Keller; and 2) Popes and the devil of inner absolutism. A review by Arthur Jones.
Letter to a Non-Churchgoer
...from the Spiritually Speaking Blog of the Victoria Times Colonist. By Christopher Page.
The Nine Ecological Virtues
...suggested by the Christian ecologist James Nash. One by one, I will describe each virtue. By Rich Heffern.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--42
...about Catholic horses.
1) Ratzinger Was Against Celibacy According to a Document from 1970; and
2) Catholic Theologians in Germany, Switzerland and Austria Call for End to Celibacy for Priests, followed by: 3) An American commentary on this story by M. Sherer-Emunds, and 4) The Church in 2011: a necessary departure: The full statement of the theologians.
Obituary of Rev. Neil Parado, member of Corpus Canada
...and a tribute to him from Leonard Schmidt.
Two Timely Prayers for Healing
1) Heavenly Father I call on you rigtht now..., and 2) A Prayer for Healing.
An Open Letter to the U.S. Bishops on the Forthcoming Missal by Anthony Ruff, O.S.B.
... and various comments from Ireland and Australia on the new Missal.
"Come Out My People!": God's Call out of Empire and Beyond by Wes Howard-Brook (Maryknoll, N.Y.:Orbis Books, 2010) xvii, 525 pp, $30 USD
Cutting ties with religion of empire. A review by John Dear, S.J.
Beatification of John Paul II Leaves Many Catholics Cold
There is no doubt that John Paul II was a great man, but he leaves too great a void of coolness about his personality to hurry his beatification. By Eugene Cullen Kennedy.
Forgiveness
The opposite of forgiveness is always a closedness of spirit, a smallness of soul, and a judgmental stance towards the other, which can lead to vengeance or even violence. By Daniel O'Rourke.
Archbishop Diarmuid Martin of Dublin Admits Failing in Attempts to Reform Church, by John Cooney
...plus the full text of his address "Keeping the Show on the Road: Is this the future of the Irish Catholic Church?"
Why Give Up Stuff for Lent?
How is it that the notion of bridling the self can be as important as satisfying the self? By Joan Chittister.
Bieber Fever
Justin Bieber is just a good Christian kid who is trying to be himself, and his movie "Never Say Never" sends some messages that teens need to hear. By Christopher Stefanik.
Ash Wednesday: Remember you are dust, and to dust you shall return
I am dust, to be sure - stardust, if I am to believe what the new physics tells me. By Judy Cannato.
The Wilkinson Report on the Serious Crisis Facing the Catholic Church in Australia
...because of a lack of priests. Compiled by Peter J. Wilkinson.
Church Knew the Sex Abuse Scandal Was Coming
It was not a Black Swan or the Twin Tower attacks of 9/11. By Eugene Cullen Kennedy.
The Way of the Dreamcatcher: Spirit-Lessons with Robert Lax, Poet-Peacemaker-Sage by S.T. Georgiou (Toronto: Novalis, 2003; rev. ed. Springfield, Illinois: Templegate Books, 2010) 285 pp, paper, $16.95 USD
The wisdom of Robert Lax: 'Cultivate, Exercise Compassion.' A review by John Dear, S.J.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--43
...about my last trip to Costco.
There Be Dragons, a film about Opus Dei founder Josemaria Escriva, by Roland Joffe
Movie on Opus Dei founder sure to set Catholic tongues wagging. A review by John L. Allen Jr.
Souls in Full Sail: A Christian Spirituality for the Later Years by Emilie Griffin (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 2010) 183 pp., paperback, $16.50 CAD, $15.00 USD
A profound spiritual maturity serves as grounding for what Emilie Griffin discusses in this book's ten chapters. A review by Wayne Holst.
Creation as the Body of God
The incarnation actually happened 13.75 billion years ago with a moment that we now call The Big Bang. By Richard Rohr.
Independent Catholic News
Independent Catholic News is the first daily on-line Catholic news service in the UK. (www.indcatholicnews.com)
Obituary and Cremation of Germana Driscoll
...Wife of Daniel Driscoll, former Oblate of Mary Immaculate.
1) A Peritus Remembers: My Journey to the Second Vatican Council by Jack Shea
2)...followed by an interview on Vatican II with Jack Shea by Jim Noonan.
'Earth Is in the Heavens', Joseph Campbell Taught Us
Today when books about the end of times and the Mayan predictions for 2012 soar to the top of the bookstore charts, Campbell’s view is timely and helpful. By Rich Heffern.
The Truth Will Make You Free: A Personal Journey
Lecture notes of the Most Rev. Diarmiud Martin, Archbishop of Dublin and Primate of Ireland, on the sexual abuse crisis in Dublin.
Catholic Culture
The mission of Catholic Culture is to give faithful Catholics the information, encouragement, and perspective they need to become an active force for renewal in the Church and in society. (www.catholicculture.org)
'So Jack Is Gone'
A tribute and a homily for the late Jack Shea. By Anthony Padovano.
Cardinals Clash Over Celibacy Rule
An appeal to the Pope by a group of top German Catholics to relax the mandatory celibacy rule for priests has led to a public row between two cardinals and further calls for reform. From The Swag (Australia).
Thank God for Death
Could anything be more sacred? more necessary? more real? By Michael Dowd.
Osservatore Romano
The Vatican's semi-official daily newspaper. (www.osservatoreromano.va)
Crucifixion Helps Make Meaning of Pain in the Church and in the World
Jesus’ passion and death is a result of deeply-human intolerance, jealousy, resentment, hatred, and, most of all, fear. By Jamie L. Manson.
Easter May Have to Wait
Glenda's funeral will be held on Holy Saturday...I wonder if Stephen her husband could possibly endure the Easter alleluias and the triumphant message that death has lost its sting. By Bruce Sanguin.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--44
...about great truths of life.
Jesus and the Jewish Roots of the Eucharist: Unlocking the Secrets of the Last Supper by Brant Pitre (New York: Doubleday, 2011) 228 pp, hardcover, $21.99 USD
The meaning of Jesus in the context of Judaism. A review by Richard T. Lawrence .
1) Maryknoll Gives Bourgeois Notice of Removal from Order over Support of Women's Ordination; and
2) Bourgeois Tells Maryknoll: 'I cannot lie, I cannot recant.' By Joshua J. McElwee.
Tribute to John Paul II: A Life in Pictures
A high-tech and interactive tribute in the late Pope's honour. (www.johnpaulii.va/en)
1) Pope John Paul Moves Closer to Sainthood; and
2) Beatification Stirs Ferment Over Jean Paul's Legacy.
Canadian Bishop Pleads Guilty to Importing Child Pornography
Bishop Raymond J. Lahey was jailed on May 4 immediately after pleading guilty.
Revenge Is Not the Way
I did not celebrate the killing of Osama bin Laden. I do not support or cheer the killing of anyone. As a Christian, I am not allowed to retaliate, seek revenge or to kill. By John Dear, S.J.
American Catholic Council to Convene in Detroit in June
Among organizations that banded together to form the American Catholic Council are Voice of the Faithful, FutureChurch, and Corpus. By Jerry Filteau.
The Meaning of Mary Magdalene: Discovering the Woman at the Heart of Christianity by Cynthia Bourgeault (Boston: Shambhala Publications, 2010) 289 pp, paperback, $16.95 USD
The love story at the heart of Christian theology. A review by Maureen Daly.
Theologian Kung Says Only Radical Reforms Can Save the Catholic Church
...speaking at a sold-out event in the Literary Center in Munich on May 2, 2011. By Anli Serfontein.
New Form of Religious Life Offers Laity a Benedictine Pathway
Monasteries of the Heart: A New Movement for A New World. By Cheryl Wittenauer.
The Myth of Multitasking
Today it seems few do only what they are doing. Multitasking is the current fad. It’s the rage. By Daniel O'Rourke.
All the Way to Heaven: The Selected Letters of Dorothy Day edited by Robert Ellsberg (Milwaukee: Marquette U. Press, 2010) 408 pp, Index; hardcover, $35 USD
A remarkable Christian's life in her letters. A review by Arthur Jones.
Extending Your Spirit and Life with Meditation
Part 2: How to meditate successfully. By Carol Meyer.
1) The Resurrection of the Dead - Part 1; and
2) The Resurrection of the Dead - Part 2. Christians come face to face with the meaning of these creedal words when a loved one dies. By Richard McBrien.
1) Fired Australian Bishop Calls Rome Authoritarian; and
2) Bishop Morris: 'You've got to stand in your truth.' By Tom Roberts and Joshua J. McElwee.
Roy Bourgeois's Priesthood Can Never Truly End
After four decades risking his life and his personal comfort for the sake of peace and the liberation of the poor, Bourgeois has been stripped of his sacramental power. By Jamie L. Manson.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--45
...about Forrest Gump going to heaven.
Does Religion Belong in AA?
Fight over God splits Toronto AA groups. By Leslie Scrivener.
The Geologians: Stalking the Divine in the Real
God’s revelation is also in our midst. The world is not an expendable backdrop to some remote salvation drama. God is here and now. By Rich Heffern.
Baptism, Not Bishops or Pope, Unites the Church
...said Anthony Padovano to the more than 1800 who attended the meeting of the Ameican Catholic Council held in Detroit from June 10-12. By Jerry Filteau.
Matthew Fox Speaks at American Catholic Council Gathering
Addressing the first American Catholic Council, Fr. Matthew Fox encouraged the nearly 2,000 participants attending to adapt a different way of being church. By Sharon Abercrombie.
Grace Isn't Enough
As Mahatma Gandhi said, “Prayer is not asking. It is a longing of the soul. It is daily admission of one’s weakness and need. It is better in prayer to have a heart without words than words without a heart.” By Daniel O'Rourke.
The American Catholic Council Gathering in Detroit: 2000 Meet to Call for Reform
...and to support a Catholic Bill of Rights and Responsibilities. By Jerry Filteau.
Hans Kung Urges Peaceful Revolution Agaianst Roman Absolutism
He made the call in a video message June 10, the first evening of the conference in Detroit of the American Catholic Council. By Jerry Filteau.
The God of Loveliness
This hymn reminds me that we do inhabit a lovely world after all, and it is nourishing to the soul to pay attention to the beauty that surrounds us. By Hank Mattimore.
A Solstice Passes, Unnoticed
We are apt to miss this phenomenon of Earth’s axial tilt, as we miss so much of what the natural world does in our surrounds. By James Carroll.
Vatican News Portal
The new information source will highlight the Pope's travels, acts and teachings. It will also contain statements released by various departments of the Vatican, news developments from local churches worldwide and information about other important global developments. (www.news.va)
1) Cardinal Sees 'no theological obstacle' to Women Priests by John L. Allen Jr; and
2) Portugese Cardinal Clarifies Statements on Ordination of Women.
It Doesn't Sing
The trouble with the New Roman Missal. By Rita Ferrone.
Last Lecture in the Series on The Dark Night of the Soul by St. John of the Cross
The finale of a five-year course on St. John of the Cross. I AM AVAILABLE FOR CONSULTATION ON THIS COURSE BY EMAIL (ADELINE.LEONARD.SCHMIDT@SHAW.CA) OR PHONE (204)-487-3553. Leonard E. Schmidt.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--46
...about those fabulous Jewish comedians.
Report on the 2011 Canadian Christian Meditation Community Biennial National Conference...
...on the theme "John Main and 20th-Century Mystics".
New Short History of the Catholic Church by Norman Tanner (London: Burns and Oates, 2011) 260 pages, hardcover, $24.95 CAD. Available also from Novalis.
A description of the book, with an excerpt from the Introduction.
1) Ad Multos Annos: Announcement of William Manseau's Consecration as Bishop; and 2)
2) Reflections of a Worker Bishop On My Ordination as Bishop. By William J. Manseau, D.Min.
In Memoriam Bert Peeters (1915-2011)
...the first President of the International Federation of Married Catholic Priests.
Catholics And Their Right To Married Priests: Struggles with the Vatican by Heinz-J. Vogels (United Kingdom: Authorhouse, 2011) 172 pages, paper, $12 USD; hardcover, $21 USD
In this autobiography Vogels makes the case for a change in church discipline not only through his arguments but also through his own lived experience . A review by Jim Noonan.
Fr. Roy Bourgeois Refuses to Recant; and related stories 2) 3) 4):
2) Second Warning Letter from Maryknoll Superior under Pressure from Vatican; 3) Reflection of Bridget Mary Meehan of the Association of Roman Catholic Women Priests; and 4) Petition to Support Fr. Roy Borgeois.
The Vatican's Tahrir Square?
The “extraordinary force” shown by the people in Egypt's Tahrir Square is also manifesting itself in the growing unease about the imposition of the new translation of the Roman Missal. By Kevin T. Kelly.
A More Supple Notion of Who God Is
Science has delved into the heart of matter itself and the deepest reaches of space, but our values remain rooted in philosophies, religious traditions and ethical frameworks devised a millennium or two ago. By Rich Heffern.
Encouragement for Those Disappointed with the Church
A double emigration is happening to Catholics: one is exterior, persons who simply leave the Church, and the other is interior, those who remain in the Church but who no longer feel that she is their spiritual home. By Leonardo Boff.
All This and Heaven Too
An historical perspective on the divide between religious cultures in India. By Daniel L. Driscoll.
Canadian Website on New Roman Missal Translation
The Canadian bishops' conference announced the launch of a new website aimed at educating the country's faithful on changes to the Roman Missal. (www.romanmissal.ca)
Vatican Announces Indulgences for World Youth Day by Carol Glatz; and related story 2):
2) WYD Indulgences: Rome Fiddles While We Burn by Eugene Cullen Kennedy.
Relaxed Rules on ex-Priests Not Imminent, Vatican Official Says by John L. Allen Jr.; and related story 2)
2) Let Dispensed Priests Play Active Parish Role, Vatican Urges Bishops. By Madeleine Teehan.
Maryknoll Priest Who Backs Women's Ordination Is Detained at Vatican
Fr. Roy Bourgeois and two other deomonstrators were briefly detained by the Italian police. By Carol Glatz.
Archbishop of Toronto Thomas Collins among New Cardinals Named by Pope Benedict
The ceremony to install the new cardinals will be held on February 18, 2012. Reprinted from Postmedia News.
The Church Is The Whole People of God
One of a series on Vatican II themes. By Richard McBrien.
Misguided Missal
Information on the new translation of the Roman Missal. (www.misguidedmissal.com)
A Statement for Labour Day 2011
Unions give people a voice, decent wages. By Bishop Fred Henry of Calgary, Alberta.
The Gospel Jack Layton
Catholics have been late to understand Layton's gospel orientation. By Ted Schmidt.
CORPUS USA National Conference 2012
On Friday, June 22 - Sunday, June 24, 2012 at the American Airlines Conference Center in Dallas, Texas. Theme: And the Young Shall Dream Dreams...A New Way of Being Church. Keynote Speaker: Jamie Manson. For more information as it becomes available, go to: www.corpus.org
Austrian Priests Defy Catholic Church, Face Showdown by Tom Heneghan; and related stories 2) 3) 4):
2) Austrian Abbots Say Schonborn Alone Cannot Prevent Schism in the Church by Christa Pongratz-Lippitt; 3) Press Statement from the International Federation for a Renewed Catholic Ministry on the September 10 Meeting Between Cardinal Schonborn and Dissident Priests; and 4) Austrian Church in Turmoil: Revolt in the Ranks by Christa Pongratz-Lippitt.
Married Man To Become a Catholic Priest in Sacramento, California
A former Lutheran minister, Jeff Henry felt called to the Catholic priesthood seven years ago. By Jennifer Garza.
Canon Lawyer Questions Maryknoll's Move Against Fr. Roy Bourgeois
Fr. Tom Doyle argues for ability to 'act and think according to conscience'. By Tom Roberts.
Measure of a Person Lies Not in Feelings But in Actions
Commitment trumps feelings anytime. By Hank Mattimore.
Top Irish Cleric Calls for Church to End Celibacy for Priests by Peter Taggart; and related stories 2) 3) 4):
2) Open Letter from the People of God to the Bishops of the United States. Sponsored by FutureChurch; 3) Invitation to Sign the Open Letter to the Bishops of the United States. By Christine Schenk, csj; and 4) Bishop Daly was right to raise his head above the parapet on the issue of celibacy. By Fr. Brian D'Arcy, C.P.
Only for Today: The Daily Decalogue of Pope John XXIII
...which is very similar to the bookmark "Just for Today" put out by Al-Anon Family Groups. By Heather King.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--47
...about the man going to a lecture at 2 a.m.
Remembering Cardinal Ambrozic of Toronto
Privately, one on one, he was a different person. If you barked back at him, he respected you. A good man, a loyal church man. Requiescat in pace. By Ted Schmidt.
Breathing Under Water: Spirituality and the Twelve Steps by Richard Rohr (Cincinnati, Ohio: St. Anthony Messenger Press, 2011) 160 pages, paperback, $15.99 USD
Insight on our addictions, both visible and subtle. A review by Thomas C. Fox.
Rupture with Vatican Reveals a Changed Ireland
The awe and fear the Roman Catholic Church once commanded in Ireland have given way to rage and defiance after revelations about the abuse of children. By Sarah Lyall.
Render Unto Rome: The Secret Life of Money in the Catholic Church by Jason Berry (New York: Crown Publishers, 2011) 420 pages, hardcover, $25 USD
The financial scandal in the Catholic Church. A review by Richard McBrien.
Let Dispensed Priests Play Active Parish Role, Vatican Urges Bishops...
...in a letter from Cardinal Ivan Dias, Prefect for the Evengelization of Peoples in Rome. By Madeleine Teahan.
Jesuits in Canada - 400 Years of Service
The Catholic Register is proud to honour the 400th anniversary of the Jesuits' arrival in Canada with this 18-part special feature.
Course in the Afterlife
A Course in "The Afterlife of the Spiritworld", as described in Betty Eadie's "Embraced by the Light", is being offered - at no charge - after the 10:30 a.m. Sunday service, beginning October 31, 2011 at Crescent Fort Rouge United Church, 525 Wardlaw Ave., Winnipeg, Manitoba. For more information, telephone 204-487-3553, or email ADELINE.LEONARD.SCHMIDT@SHAW.CA
For NDP Leadership Hopeful Paul Dewar, "faith is political"
A reposting from my blog in early 2009. By Dennis Greunding.
Some Things Never Go Away
A reflection on St. Francis of Assisi, his love of animals, and ecology. By Joan Chittister.
The Way, a film directed by Emilio Estevez, about a pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela in Spain; and related interview 2):
2) Martin Sheen, who stars in the film, speaks about his journey as a Catholic, activist, and father. An interview with Sr. Rose Pacate.
Obituary for Gordon Irving
...who died on October 10, 2011 at the age of 83.
Oblates and Death
...by the late Jean Monbourquette, omi.
You Can't Go Rome Again
You can see right through the Reform of the Reform and its almost weekly moves to return Catholicism to the Eden of church life that they perceive on the far side of Vatican II. By Eugene Cullen Kennedy.
Celibacy Is Strangling the Catholic Church
Another response to the comments of Bishop Daley, retired Bishop of Derry. My Michael Kelly, S.J.
Let Us Keep the '1973 Rite' of the Mass
...and reasons why the new translation of the Roman Missal is illegitimate. By Fr. Mike Fallon.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--48
...about The Bell Ringer of Notre Dame.
Lack of Women Will Irreversibly Harm the Church
The question arises again with new and demanding urgency for many: Why do we go there? By Joan Chittister.
Women still 'not worthy'
Growing militancy over female priests, celibacy threaten Roman Catholic Church. By Charles Lewis.
The Things That Count Cannot Be Counted
Alfred Einstein once wrote, "Not everything that counts can be counted, and not everything that can be counted counts." By Daniel O'Rourke.
Ministering To, Ministering As 'the marginalized' Theme of the 2011 CTA Conference
Report on the November 4-6 Call to Action Conference in Milwaukee,Wisconsin. By Zoe Ryan.
Meditation on a Meditation
God has a way of showing up where you don't expect him. By Hank Mattimore.
Activist Nun Who Fought Indian Mining Companies Brutally Murdered
Sister Valsa, 52, was from Kerala in South India, and 24 years ago took her vows as a member of the Sisters of Charity of Jesus and Mary. By Stephanie Nolen.
Translators of the New Mass Prayers Neglected a Cardinal Rule: Consider Your Audience
To any objective mind, the new changes to the Mass are unarguably not food for ordinary people’s souls. By William J. O'Malley, S.J.
Making Do With a Faulty Translation
An editorial in the National Catholic Reporter.
a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--49 (for earlier jokes go to: a-Tell Me If...in the Archive of this section)
...about achieving inner peace.
For the 99 Percent
An editorial from America magazine.
Amurtha: What the Pope's Man Found Out About the Law of Nature (London: Author House, 2011) 544 pages, paperback, $28.20 USD; L17.99 UK
Description of this theological novel.
Recongnizing the Church We Already Are
Opening night keynote address at the annual Call to Action national conference in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on November 4, 2011.
Caring for Mourning and Loss
Facing loss and nourishing resilience, that is, learning from crises, is a great personal challenge. By Leonardo Boff
Joanna Manning Is Ordained an Anglican Priest
She is the author of Is the Pope Catholic? and The Magdalene Moment. By Ted Schmidt.
Early Christians
This website is a place to go and learn about the first Christians. (
www.earlychristians.org)
The Christ Child and Santa
Can the Christ Child tolerate Santa crowding the manger scene? By Phil Little.
'With the Coming of Jesus, Everything Changes'
A homily given on December 11, 2011 at the Chapel of the Hospital of Divine Providence, San Salvador, where Archbishop Romero was assassinated. By Bishop Thomas Gumbleton.
Joseph Ratzinger: Crisis of a Papacy by Marco Politi
The perils of a 'part-time pope'. A review by John L. Allen Jr. (2011)
Questions from a Ewe on Christmas Day
Sunday, December 25, 2011. Come let us adore and follow...
Christmas and the End of the War in Iraq
There is much for peacemakers to celebrate this Christmas. By John Dear, S.J.
Dealing with the New Translation of the Mass
The changes were inspired and promoted by traditionalists in the hierarchy and a minorrity of ultra-conservatives within the Catholic church generally. By Richard McBrien.
Durban Climate Change Conference
We hear virtually nothing from the local and national church leaders on the destruction of the planet. By Paul Woodcroft.
Former Bishop Lahey Released from Jail
Possession of child pornography sentence amounts to time served after credit. By Andrew Seymour, Ottawa Citizen with files from Postmedia News.
California Bishop Resigns, Says He Has Two Children
The latest evidence that imposed celibacy does not work. By Ted Schmidt.
I Was Blind and Then I Saw
It was Jesus -- and I almost missed him. By Alice Camille.
The Pope's War: Why Ratzinger's Secret Crusade Has Imperiled the Church and How It Can Be Saved by Matthew Fox (Sterling Ethos, 2011) $22.95 USD
Former Dominican takes on the 'Inquisitor'. A review by Raymond A. Schroth.
Irish Seminarians to Live as a Group Apart by Pamela Duncan; and related story 2)...
2) Who knew an Irish seminary could be so much like a prison? by Eugene Cullen Kennedy.
A Woman on the Altar: Can the Church Ordain Women Deacons?
Women as deacons is not a concept for the future. Women as deacons is a concept for the present, for today. An interview with Phyllis Zagano.
The Big Eight O
Reflections on his turning eighty. By Daniel O'Rourke.
The 'schoolboys' Have No Real Authority
Another viewpoint on the new English translation of the Roman Missal by a 76-year-old priest. By Norbert F. Diabal.
World Religions and the God Within
God is bigger than our dogmas. By Hank Mattimore.
a-new-Women in Theology
A website by and about women in theology by graduate students in theology.(
www.womenintheology.org)
Rescuing Jesus from Traditional and Progressive Christologies
Some challenging questions about our understanding of Jesus' role as "the Christ". By Michael Morwood.
z-Tell Me If You've Heard This One - 50 (for earlier jokes go to: a-Tell Me If...in the Archive of this section)
...about the Sheik and the Scotsman.
