Showing posts with label Daily Donna Marie. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Daily Donna Marie. Show all posts
Monday, October 6, 2008
This morning's "Mom's Corner" segment
To hear this morning's segment of "Mom's Corner" with Teresa Tomeo and me discussing my new books and other topics brought up by the callers who called in to the show and won copies of my books, just click here.
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Join me on Monday morning!
Join me on Monday to sit down with your cup of coffee or tea and sit in on my "Mom's Corner" segment with Teresa Tomeo "Catholic Connection." You'll have an opportunity to call in too. I hope you will join us for a lively discussion about the Catholic faith, my new books coming out in a little over a week and some fun too!
Tune in at 9:15 AM Eastern Standard Time by clicking here at avemariaradio.net and then click "listen live." Talk to you soon. :)
God bless your day!
Donna-Marie
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Pope Benedict's Prayer Intentions for October
Vatican City, October 1 (CNA).-This morning Pope Benedict XVI's prayer intentions for the month of October were announced by the Holy See's Press Office.
Pope Benedict XVI's general prayer intention is: "That the Synod of Bishops may help the pastors and theologians, the catechists and promoters who are engaged in the service of the Word of God to courageously transmit the truth of faith in communion with the entire Church."
His mission intention is: "That in this month dedicated to the missions, through the promotional activities of the Pontifical Missionary Works and other organisms, every Christian community may feel the need to participate in the Church's universal mission with prayer, sacrifice and concrete help."
Pope Benedict XVI's general prayer intention is: "That the Synod of Bishops may help the pastors and theologians, the catechists and promoters who are engaged in the service of the Word of God to courageously transmit the truth of faith in communion with the entire Church."
His mission intention is: "That in this month dedicated to the missions, through the promotional activities of the Pontifical Missionary Works and other organisms, every Christian community may feel the need to participate in the Church's universal mission with prayer, sacrifice and concrete help."
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Barack Obama calls ad a "despicable lie."
Washington DC, September 20 (CNA).-The campaign of Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Barack Obama has responded to an ad which features abortion survivor Gianna Jessen asking Obama to support protecting those infants who survive abortions. In its own ad, the Obama campaign calls the Jessen ad "a despicable lie" and claims it takes out of context Obama's repeated votes against the Illinois Born Alive Infants Protection Act.
The new advertisement also implies that the original advertisement, which was produced by the 527 organization BornAliveTruth.org, is connected to the McCain campaign.
In the Obama advertisement, the narrator says:
"John McCain's Attacks: 'the sleaziest ads ever,' 'truly vile'
"Now, votes taken out of context accusing Obama of letting infants die?
"It's a despicable lie.
"Even the bill's Republican sponsor said it's untrue.
"Obama's always supported medical care to protect infants.
"McCain? He's running on a platform to ban abortion, even in cases of rape and incest.
"Sleazy ads.
"Anti-choice.
"That's John McCain."
The advertisement begins with a brief appearance of Obama, who says "I'm Barack Obama and I approve this message."
The BornAliveTruth.org advertisement features Gianna Jessen, was the victim of an attempted saline solution abortion which was performed on her then-17-year-old mother in the third trimester of Jessen's gestation. The saline solution burned Jessen's body for eighteen hours until she was delivered at a Los Angeles County abortion clinic at a weight of 2 lbs.
Jessen suffers cerebral palsy as a result of the abortion attempt.
In the original advertisement, she cited Barack Obama's opposition to the Born Alive Infants Protection Act in the Illinois state senate.
She charged: "if Barack Obama had his way, I wouldn't be here. Four times, Barack Obama voted to oppose a law to protect babies left to die after a failed abortion. Senator Obama, please support born alive infant protections. I'm living proof these babies have a right to live."
In a response to the new Obama campaign ad, Jessen wrote on BornAliveTruth.org:
"Mr. Obama is clearly blinded by political ambition given his attack on me this week. All I asked of him was to do the right thing: support medical care and protection for babies who survive abortion – as I did 31 years ago.
"He voted against such protection and care four times even though the U.S. Senate voted 98-0 in favor of a bill identical to the one Obama opposed. In the words of his own false and misleading ad, his position is downright vile.
"Mr. Obama said at the recent Saddleback Forum that the question of when babies should get human rights was above his pay grade. Such vacillation and cowardice in public policy almost left me to die and no one should have to go through what I went through."
Jill Stanek, a nurse who pushed for BAIPA after discovering infants who survived abortions at an Illinois hospital were being left to die in a soiled utility room, also replied to the Obama campaign's attack ad.
"It is despicable, repulsive and beneath contempt that Barack Obama would attack Gianna Jessen," Stanek said in a statement on BornAliveTruth.org. "She is a courageous abortion survivor and living miracle who would not be with us today if Obama's policies had been in place when she was born."
She charged that Obama "continues to mislead the American people on this issue" and said he voted four times in the Illinois state senate against "medical care and protection for babies who survive abortions."
"Mr. Obama needs to come forward and tell the American people that he understands people like Gianna Jessen, and that he will support and enforce Born Alive Infant protections -- that these are living, breathing human beings who have come into our world and deserve protection in the law and should receive medical care at health care facilities," Stanek continued.
"These babies have the same rights as the rest of us."
The new advertisement also implies that the original advertisement, which was produced by the 527 organization BornAliveTruth.org, is connected to the McCain campaign.
In the Obama advertisement, the narrator says:
"John McCain's Attacks: 'the sleaziest ads ever,' 'truly vile'
"Now, votes taken out of context accusing Obama of letting infants die?
"It's a despicable lie.
"Even the bill's Republican sponsor said it's untrue.
"Obama's always supported medical care to protect infants.
"McCain? He's running on a platform to ban abortion, even in cases of rape and incest.
"Sleazy ads.
"Anti-choice.
"That's John McCain."
The advertisement begins with a brief appearance of Obama, who says "I'm Barack Obama and I approve this message."
The BornAliveTruth.org advertisement features Gianna Jessen, was the victim of an attempted saline solution abortion which was performed on her then-17-year-old mother in the third trimester of Jessen's gestation. The saline solution burned Jessen's body for eighteen hours until she was delivered at a Los Angeles County abortion clinic at a weight of 2 lbs.
Jessen suffers cerebral palsy as a result of the abortion attempt.
In the original advertisement, she cited Barack Obama's opposition to the Born Alive Infants Protection Act in the Illinois state senate.
She charged: "if Barack Obama had his way, I wouldn't be here. Four times, Barack Obama voted to oppose a law to protect babies left to die after a failed abortion. Senator Obama, please support born alive infant protections. I'm living proof these babies have a right to live."
In a response to the new Obama campaign ad, Jessen wrote on BornAliveTruth.org:
"Mr. Obama is clearly blinded by political ambition given his attack on me this week. All I asked of him was to do the right thing: support medical care and protection for babies who survive abortion – as I did 31 years ago.
"He voted against such protection and care four times even though the U.S. Senate voted 98-0 in favor of a bill identical to the one Obama opposed. In the words of his own false and misleading ad, his position is downright vile.
"Mr. Obama said at the recent Saddleback Forum that the question of when babies should get human rights was above his pay grade. Such vacillation and cowardice in public policy almost left me to die and no one should have to go through what I went through."
Jill Stanek, a nurse who pushed for BAIPA after discovering infants who survived abortions at an Illinois hospital were being left to die in a soiled utility room, also replied to the Obama campaign's attack ad.
"It is despicable, repulsive and beneath contempt that Barack Obama would attack Gianna Jessen," Stanek said in a statement on BornAliveTruth.org. "She is a courageous abortion survivor and living miracle who would not be with us today if Obama's policies had been in place when she was born."
She charged that Obama "continues to mislead the American people on this issue" and said he voted four times in the Illinois state senate against "medical care and protection for babies who survive abortions."
"Mr. Obama needs to come forward and tell the American people that he understands people like Gianna Jessen, and that he will support and enforce Born Alive Infant protections -- that these are living, breathing human beings who have come into our world and deserve protection in the law and should receive medical care at health care facilities," Stanek continued.
"These babies have the same rights as the rest of us."
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Fr. James's Sunday Homily
This Sunday, our attention is being directed toward an understanding of the reality of sin. Let us recall the words of this Sunday's responsorial psalm: "Remember that your compassion, O Lord, and your love are from of old. The sins of my youth and my frailties remember not; in your kindness remember me, because of your goodness, O Lord".
What is sin? The Catechism of the Catholic Church gives us a concise definition. "Sin is an offense against reason, truth, and right conscience; it is failure in genuine love for God and neighbor caused by a perverse attachment to certain goods. It wounds the nature of man and injures human solidarity. It has been defined as an utterance, a deed, or a desire contrary to the eternal law" (CCC #1849).
Scripture tells us that actual sin is divided into two classifications: mortal sin and venial sin.
"There is a sin that leads to death…"
(1John 5:16).
"Every kind of wickedness is sin, but not all sin leads to death" (1John 5:17).
Mortal sin is forgiven through the Sacrament of Confession. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches: "Confession to a priest is an essential part of the sacrament of Penance. All mortal sins of which penitents after a diligent self-examination are conscious must be recounted by them in confession…" (CCC #1456).
Just like all the other sacraments of the Church, Jesus instituted the Sacrament of Confession. The Church has always understood the Scriptural reference for the Sacrament of Confession to be John 20: 22-23: "Receive the Holy Spirit. For those whose sins you forgive, they are forgiven; for those whose sins you retain, they are retained".
What an immense gift we have been given! The Sacrament of Confession is an enormous source of interior peace. The priest raises his hand, and then with a blessing pronounces those amazing words: I absolve you from your sins. At that moment, we know that God has heard our cry for forgiveness, and we have been pardoned of our sins. "God, who is rich in mercy…" (Ephesians 2: 4).
For me, the Sacrament of Reconciliation has been, along with the Eucharist, my greatest source of strength and peace during my journey with the Lord Jesus. As a parish priest, my greatest joys are celebrating the Eucharist for my people and hearing confessions. I am overjoyed when people go to confession on a regular basis, and one of my heaviest crosses as a priest has been the rejection of confession by many people. If they only knew what would give them such peace and happiness.
A few years ago a priest friend of mine from another diocese told me that his bishop recently made an ad limina visit to the Holy Father. Bishops meet with the Pope every five years in order to give him a report on their respective dioceses.
The bishop was very honest with the Holy Father. He told him that his biggest concern is the fact that his priests, religious and laity are not going to confession.
The greatest sin for many people is the denial of sin. How sad this is, and how dangerous this is for the acquisition of eternal life. Despite the constant and clear teaching of the Catholic Church, many people reject the truth.
Once again, let us return to this Sunday's responsorial psalm: "Good and upright is the Lord; thus he shows sinners the way. He guides the humble to justice, and teaches the humble his way".
Continual spiritual progress is essential. The habitual practice of the sacrament of confession must not be just a practice that takes place before Christmas and Easter. This is a huge mistake. Monthly confession, or whenever necessary, is a fundamental tool to maintain and persevere in the life of grace. Spiritual laziness is very dangerous for any soul.
What is sin? The Catechism of the Catholic Church gives us a concise definition. "Sin is an offense against reason, truth, and right conscience; it is failure in genuine love for God and neighbor caused by a perverse attachment to certain goods. It wounds the nature of man and injures human solidarity. It has been defined as an utterance, a deed, or a desire contrary to the eternal law" (CCC #1849).
Scripture tells us that actual sin is divided into two classifications: mortal sin and venial sin.
"There is a sin that leads to death…"
(1John 5:16).
"Every kind of wickedness is sin, but not all sin leads to death" (1John 5:17).
Mortal sin is forgiven through the Sacrament of Confession. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches: "Confession to a priest is an essential part of the sacrament of Penance. All mortal sins of which penitents after a diligent self-examination are conscious must be recounted by them in confession…" (CCC #1456).
Just like all the other sacraments of the Church, Jesus instituted the Sacrament of Confession. The Church has always understood the Scriptural reference for the Sacrament of Confession to be John 20: 22-23: "Receive the Holy Spirit. For those whose sins you forgive, they are forgiven; for those whose sins you retain, they are retained".
What an immense gift we have been given! The Sacrament of Confession is an enormous source of interior peace. The priest raises his hand, and then with a blessing pronounces those amazing words: I absolve you from your sins. At that moment, we know that God has heard our cry for forgiveness, and we have been pardoned of our sins. "God, who is rich in mercy…" (Ephesians 2: 4).
For me, the Sacrament of Reconciliation has been, along with the Eucharist, my greatest source of strength and peace during my journey with the Lord Jesus. As a parish priest, my greatest joys are celebrating the Eucharist for my people and hearing confessions. I am overjoyed when people go to confession on a regular basis, and one of my heaviest crosses as a priest has been the rejection of confession by many people. If they only knew what would give them such peace and happiness.
A few years ago a priest friend of mine from another diocese told me that his bishop recently made an ad limina visit to the Holy Father. Bishops meet with the Pope every five years in order to give him a report on their respective dioceses.
The bishop was very honest with the Holy Father. He told him that his biggest concern is the fact that his priests, religious and laity are not going to confession.
The greatest sin for many people is the denial of sin. How sad this is, and how dangerous this is for the acquisition of eternal life. Despite the constant and clear teaching of the Catholic Church, many people reject the truth.
Once again, let us return to this Sunday's responsorial psalm: "Good and upright is the Lord; thus he shows sinners the way. He guides the humble to justice, and teaches the humble his way".
Continual spiritual progress is essential. The habitual practice of the sacrament of confession must not be just a practice that takes place before Christmas and Easter. This is a huge mistake. Monthly confession, or whenever necessary, is a fundamental tool to maintain and persevere in the life of grace. Spiritual laziness is very dangerous for any soul.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Can you believe this?
My friend, Marie drove me to a doctor's appointment the other day because I was a bit weak. I had an episode over the week end in which I ended up in the ER. You can read about it soon over at my "Embracing Motherhood" blog. On our way, my friend brought me up to date on a few current events in the news. I has been out of the loop with the news, just concentrating on regaining my health.
So, Marie proceeded to tell me that it is now legal in the state of Kansas for parents to drop off their teenager at a hospital if they can't deal with them!! Imagine that! I was shocked. I shouldn't be shocked because of everything else that is permissible in our culture - but my mother's heart was appalled...and sad. What does this say to that child? Your parents can just get rid of you when they can't deal with your antics? What is coming of this nation? I am speechless. The poor teens who need some sort of help and extra love are instead being thrown into the foster care system because their parents wash their hands of them! I am in a state of shock! It's one thing to say that a baby can be dropped off at a hospital to preserve its life rather than throw that poor child in a dumpster in the case of young mothers who have babies in secret and then dispose of them. But, it is another thing to give parents permission to "dispose" of their children when they are older because they don't want to deal with them and care for them properly.
What are your thoughts? Had you heard about this?
So, Marie proceeded to tell me that it is now legal in the state of Kansas for parents to drop off their teenager at a hospital if they can't deal with them!! Imagine that! I was shocked. I shouldn't be shocked because of everything else that is permissible in our culture - but my mother's heart was appalled...and sad. What does this say to that child? Your parents can just get rid of you when they can't deal with your antics? What is coming of this nation? I am speechless. The poor teens who need some sort of help and extra love are instead being thrown into the foster care system because their parents wash their hands of them! I am in a state of shock! It's one thing to say that a baby can be dropped off at a hospital to preserve its life rather than throw that poor child in a dumpster in the case of young mothers who have babies in secret and then dispose of them. But, it is another thing to give parents permission to "dispose" of their children when they are older because they don't want to deal with them and care for them properly.
What are your thoughts? Had you heard about this?
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
We celebrated St. Padre Pio's feast day yesterday
Stay with me, Lord, for it is necessary to have You present so that I do not forget You. You know how easily I abandon You.
Stay with me, Lord, because I am weak and I need Your strength, that I may not fall so often.
Stay with me, Lord, for You are my life, and without You, I am without fervor.
Stay with me, Lord, for You are my light, and without You, I am in darkness.
Stay with me, Lord, to show me Your will.
Stay with me, Lord, so that I hear Your voice and follow You.
Stay with me, Lord, for I desire to love You very much, and always be in Your company.
Stay with me, Lord, if You wish me to be faithful to You.
Stay with me, Lord, for as poor as my soul is, I wish it to be a place of consolation for You, a nest of Love.
Stay with me, Jesus, for it is getting late and the day is coming to a close, and life passes, death, judgment, eternity approaches. It is necessary to renew my strength, so that I will not stop along the way and for that, I need You. It is getting late and death approaches. I fear the darkness, the temptations, the dryness, the cross, the sorrows. O how I need You, my Jesus, in this night of exile!
Stay with me tonight, Jesus, in life with all its dangers, I need You.
Let me recognize You as Your disciples did at the breaking of bread, so that the Eucharistic Communion be the light which disperses the darkness, the force which sustains me, the unique joy of my heart.
Stay with me, Lord, because at the hour of my death, I want to remain united to You, if not by Communion, at least by grace and love.
Stay with me, Jesus, I do not ask for divine consolation, because I do not merit it, but, the gift of Your Presence, oh yes, I ask this of You!
Stay with me, Lord, for it is You alone I look for. Your Love, Your Grace, Your Will, Your Heart, Your Spirit, because I love You and ask no other reward but to love You more and more.
With a firm love, I will love You with all my heart while on earth and continue to love You perfectly during all eternity.
Amen
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Coming Soon! "Grace Cafe" for Catholic Moms and Grandmoms!
Available for Pre-Order!
From The National Catholic Register:
Grace Café
Serving Up Recipes for Faithful Mothering
By Donna-Marie Cooper O’Boyle
"Ever wish you had a cookbook for life as a Catholic wife and mother … a step-by-step guide for various “domestic church” situations? Consider your prayers answered. The recipe theme may be lighthearted, fun even, but there’s real nourishment to be had in this wonderful dish too. Inspiriting entrees — practical ways Catholic women can live out their familial vocation — are seasoned with simple suggestions for answering Christ’s universal call to holiness. Lovely poems conclude each chapter on a note of warmth that will lift hearts beyond the kitchen and point mothers straight toward heaven.
Widely published and deeply experienced in both family life and religious life, Donna-Marie Cooper O’Boyle counted Blessed Teresa of Calcutta among her personal friends. She maintains numerous websites and has founded several Catholic apostolates and ministries."
*******************************************************************************
To pre-order and receive a 10% discount, email Donna-Marie at DMCOBoyle(at)aol(dot)com with your address and name to be inscribed on the book. The cost of the book is $14.95 plus shipping and handling. If your order is placed on or before September 30, 2008, you will receive a 10% discount. The Pay Pal button will be installed soon. In the mean time, you may send a check or money order to Donna-Marie at PO Box 773, New Milford, CT 06776, USA. The cost of the book with the discount is $13.45 plus $6.00 for shipping and handling.
Grace Café
Serving Up Recipes for Faithful Mothering
By Donna-Marie Cooper O’Boyle
"Ever wish you had a cookbook for life as a Catholic wife and mother … a step-by-step guide for various “domestic church” situations? Consider your prayers answered. The recipe theme may be lighthearted, fun even, but there’s real nourishment to be had in this wonderful dish too. Inspiriting entrees — practical ways Catholic women can live out their familial vocation — are seasoned with simple suggestions for answering Christ’s universal call to holiness. Lovely poems conclude each chapter on a note of warmth that will lift hearts beyond the kitchen and point mothers straight toward heaven.
Widely published and deeply experienced in both family life and religious life, Donna-Marie Cooper O’Boyle counted Blessed Teresa of Calcutta among her personal friends. She maintains numerous websites and has founded several Catholic apostolates and ministries."
*******************************************************************************
To pre-order and receive a 10% discount, email Donna-Marie at DMCOBoyle(at)aol(dot)com with your address and name to be inscribed on the book. The cost of the book is $14.95 plus shipping and handling. If your order is placed on or before September 30, 2008, you will receive a 10% discount. The Pay Pal button will be installed soon. In the mean time, you may send a check or money order to Donna-Marie at PO Box 773, New Milford, CT 06776, USA. The cost of the book with the discount is $13.45 plus $6.00 for shipping and handling.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Pope Benedict's Prayer at Ground Zero
Prayer offered by Pope Benedict during his visit to Ground
Zero this year:
O God of love, compassion, and healing,
look on us, people of many different faiths and traditions,
who gather today at this site,
the scene of incredible violence and pain.
We ask you in your goodness
to give eternal light and peace
to all who died here --
the heroic first-responders:
our fire fighters, police officers,
emergency service workers, and Port Authority personnel,
along with all the innocent men and women
who were victims of this tragedy
simply because their work or service
brought them here on September 11, 2001.
We ask you, in your compassion
to bring healing to those
who, because of their presence here that day,
suffer from injuries and illness.
Heal, too, the pain of still-grieving families
and all who lost loved ones in this tragedy.
Give them strength to continue their lives with courage and hope.
We are mindful as well
of those who suffered death, injury, and loss
on the same day at the Pentagon and in Shanksville, Pennsylvania.
Our hearts are one with theirs
as our prayer embraces their pain and suffering.
God of peace, bring your peace to our violent world:
peace in the hearts of all men and women
and peace among the nations of the earth.
Turn to your way of love
those whose hearts and minds
are consumed with hatred.
God of understanding,
overwhelmed by the magnitude of this tragedy,
we seek your light and guidance
as we confront such terrible events.
Grant that those whose lives were spared
may live so that the lives lost here
may not have been lost in vain.
Comfort and console us,
strengthen us in hope,
and give us the wisdom and courage
to work tirelessly for a world
where true peace and love reign
among nations and in the hearts of all.
Zero this year:
O God of love, compassion, and healing,
look on us, people of many different faiths and traditions,
who gather today at this site,
the scene of incredible violence and pain.
We ask you in your goodness
to give eternal light and peace
to all who died here --
the heroic first-responders:
our fire fighters, police officers,
emergency service workers, and Port Authority personnel,
along with all the innocent men and women
who were victims of this tragedy
simply because their work or service
brought them here on September 11, 2001.
We ask you, in your compassion
to bring healing to those
who, because of their presence here that day,
suffer from injuries and illness.
Heal, too, the pain of still-grieving families
and all who lost loved ones in this tragedy.
Give them strength to continue their lives with courage and hope.
We are mindful as well
of those who suffered death, injury, and loss
on the same day at the Pentagon and in Shanksville, Pennsylvania.
Our hearts are one with theirs
as our prayer embraces their pain and suffering.
God of peace, bring your peace to our violent world:
peace in the hearts of all men and women
and peace among the nations of the earth.
Turn to your way of love
those whose hearts and minds
are consumed with hatred.
God of understanding,
overwhelmed by the magnitude of this tragedy,
we seek your light and guidance
as we confront such terrible events.
Grant that those whose lives were spared
may live so that the lives lost here
may not have been lost in vain.
Comfort and console us,
strengthen us in hope,
and give us the wisdom and courage
to work tirelessly for a world
where true peace and love reign
among nations and in the hearts of all.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Shrine for Victims of Abortion: Place of Prayer
Mexico City, Sep 8, 2008 / 10:21 pm (CNA).- Some fifty organizations came together Monday in Mexico City for the inauguration of a shrine for the victims of the abortion, which is intended to also be “a place of prayer” for women who suffer regret over having undergone an abortion and losing an “unborn child.”
The Archdiocese of Mexico City is supporting the initiative.
The rector of the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Msgr. Pedro Agustin Rivera Diaz, told reporters no new building is being constructed but rather a special “place of prayer” is being created which will have a crucifix and two statues of the Virgin Mary.
He said future plans include the building of a special crypt where the remains of “unborn babies” can be interred. Mothers will be able to have their aborted children buried there.
Msgr. Rivera Diaz said mothers will find there “a place of consolation” where their children can receive a Christian burial.
The initiative comes on the heels of the Mexico’s Supreme Court ruling that the Mexico City law allowing abortion in the nation’s capital does not violate the country's constitution.
The Archdiocese of Mexico City is supporting the initiative.
The rector of the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Msgr. Pedro Agustin Rivera Diaz, told reporters no new building is being constructed but rather a special “place of prayer” is being created which will have a crucifix and two statues of the Virgin Mary.
He said future plans include the building of a special crypt where the remains of “unborn babies” can be interred. Mothers will be able to have their aborted children buried there.
Msgr. Rivera Diaz said mothers will find there “a place of consolation” where their children can receive a Christian burial.
The initiative comes on the heels of the Mexico’s Supreme Court ruling that the Mexico City law allowing abortion in the nation’s capital does not violate the country's constitution.
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Fr. James's Homily: Charity
The Incarnation of the Son of God is the most singular and unique event in human history. In fact, the birth of Jesus divides history into two parts: the period before his coming and the period that followed his coming. Every Sunday we profess our belief in this fundamental aspect of our Catholic Faith when we proclaim: “For us men and our salvation he came down from heaven; by the power of the Holy Spirit, he became incarnate of the Virgin Mary, and was made man” (Nicene Creed).
The Incarnation distinguishes Christianity from all other religions. “By this you know the Spirit of God: every spirit which confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is of God” (1 John 4: 2). It is because of the Incarnation, that Jesus associates himself with every human being. “I tell you solemnly, in so far as you did this to one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did it to me” (Matthew 25: 40).
This Sunday’s liturgy speaks to us about the most essential virtue of Christianity. “Owe nothing to anyone, except to love one another; for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law” (Romans 13: 8). Charity is the one virtue that defines us as true Christians.
As we consider the virtue of Christianity, we immediately remember St. Paul’s definition of charity in another part of the Scriptures: “Love is patient and kind; love is not jealous or boastful; it is not arrogant or rude. Love does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrong, but rejoices in the right. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things” (1 Corinthians 13: 4-7). It is here, in this celebrated text that we find the components of the virtue of charity... (Continued here)
The Incarnation distinguishes Christianity from all other religions. “By this you know the Spirit of God: every spirit which confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is of God” (1 John 4: 2). It is because of the Incarnation, that Jesus associates himself with every human being. “I tell you solemnly, in so far as you did this to one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did it to me” (Matthew 25: 40).
This Sunday’s liturgy speaks to us about the most essential virtue of Christianity. “Owe nothing to anyone, except to love one another; for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law” (Romans 13: 8). Charity is the one virtue that defines us as true Christians.
As we consider the virtue of Christianity, we immediately remember St. Paul’s definition of charity in another part of the Scriptures: “Love is patient and kind; love is not jealous or boastful; it is not arrogant or rude. Love does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrong, but rejoices in the right. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things” (1 Corinthians 13: 4-7). It is here, in this celebrated text that we find the components of the virtue of charity... (Continued here)
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Censored YouTube videos about Planned Parenthood
Los Angeles, Sep 4, 2008 / 04:21 am (CNA).- The internet video sharing site YouTube has removed four well-viewed videos which criticize Planned Parenthood, including some featuring Planned Parenthood fundraisers agreeing to process a donation from a donor pretending to have racist motives. The move has prompted Live Action, the pro-life student organization which produced the videos, to charge YouTube with censorship.
The Live Action videos, some of which were the focus of national media attention in the past year, were removed over the past two weeks on the grounds they contain unspecified “inappropriate content.”
“These four videos have received over 160,000 YouTube views in total with the oldest video having been public on YouTube for over seven months,” said Live Action Media Director David Schmidt. “Why are these videos being removed now?" he asked.
"It is discriminatory for YouTube to selectively censor material that clearly does not contain inappropriate content," stated Live Action President Lila Rose in a press release. "We will continue to apply pressure on YouTube until it restores the videos."
In the past, YouTube has censored other pro-life videos. In February 2008 an American Life League video which criticized a Planned Parenthood advertisement was removed on the grounds it had “inappropriate content,” though the original Planned Parenthood advertisement remained posted to YouTube.
On July 2, a CNA video investigating pro-abortion activist Eve Reinhardt was censored by YouTube. After pressure from the Population Research Institute and other supporters, the video was restored on July 4.
Lila Rose told CNA in a Wednesday phone interview that YouTube still had not responded to their inquiries as of Wednesday morning.
“We need to keep those videos up to expose the truth about Planned Parenthood,” she said.
The censored videos are viewable at http://www.liveactionfilms.org/youtube/
The Live Action videos, some of which were the focus of national media attention in the past year, were removed over the past two weeks on the grounds they contain unspecified “inappropriate content.”
“These four videos have received over 160,000 YouTube views in total with the oldest video having been public on YouTube for over seven months,” said Live Action Media Director David Schmidt. “Why are these videos being removed now?" he asked.
"It is discriminatory for YouTube to selectively censor material that clearly does not contain inappropriate content," stated Live Action President Lila Rose in a press release. "We will continue to apply pressure on YouTube until it restores the videos."
In the past, YouTube has censored other pro-life videos. In February 2008 an American Life League video which criticized a Planned Parenthood advertisement was removed on the grounds it had “inappropriate content,” though the original Planned Parenthood advertisement remained posted to YouTube.
On July 2, a CNA video investigating pro-abortion activist Eve Reinhardt was censored by YouTube. After pressure from the Population Research Institute and other supporters, the video was restored on July 4.
Lila Rose told CNA in a Wednesday phone interview that YouTube still had not responded to their inquiries as of Wednesday morning.
“We need to keep those videos up to expose the truth about Planned Parenthood,” she said.
The censored videos are viewable at http://www.liveactionfilms.org/youtube/
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
New website!
Due to a data base error, my main website is missing in action! I have to rebuild my site and years of work is missing at the moment. I'd like to give you an address to a temporary site. I will soon have this new site connected to my old website's address. This is a start. The header will be different as will lots of other things. At least it is a new beginning! Go and take a look by clicking here!
God bless!
Donna-Marie
God bless!
Donna-Marie
Sunday, August 31, 2008
A Prayer for the areas and people in need due to the impending hurricane
Lord, have mercy on us.
Christ, have mercy on us.
Lord, have mercy on us.
Christ, hear us.
Christ, graciously hear us.
God the Father of Heaven, have mercy on us.
God the Son, Redeemer of the world, have mercy on us.
Holy Trinity, one God, have mercy on us.
Holy Mary, pray for us.
Mother of the Infant Jesus, pray for us.
Our Lady of Prompt Succor, pray for us.
Our Lady of Prompt Succor of all who invoke you with confidence, pray for us.
Our Lady of Prompt Succor of all who are devout toward the Infant Jesus, pray for us.
Our Lady of Prompt Succor for obtaining a lively faith, pray for us.
Our Lady of Prompt Succor for sustaining the hope of Christians, pray for us.
Our Lady of Prompt Succor for obtaining and persevering in charity, pray for us.
Our Lady of Prompt Succor for observing the law of God, pray for us.
Our Lady of Prompt Succor for observing perseverance in virtue and good works, pray for us.
Our Lady of Prompt Succor in every spiritual necessity, pray for us.
Our Lady of Prompt Succor against the revolt of self-will, pray for us.
Our Lady of Prompt Succor in the occasion of sin, pray for us.
Our Lady of Prompt Succor in every temptation, pray for us.
Our Lady of Prompt Succor against the evil spirit, pray for us.
Our Lady of Prompt Succor for obtaining contrition, pray for us.
Our Lady of Prompt Succor of those wishing to re-enter the path of salvation, pray for us.
Our Lady of Prompt Succor for the conversion of sinners, pray for us.
Our Lady of Prompt Succor in every temporal necessity, pray for us.
Our Lady of Prompt Succor in every affliction, pray for us.
Our Lady of Prompt Succor of afflicted families, pray for us.
Our Lady of Prompt Succor of the sick and the poor, pray for us.
Our Lady of Prompt Succor against contagious diseases and epidemics, pray for us.
Our Lady of Prompt Succor in every accident, pray for us.
Our Lady of Prompt Succor against destruction by fire, pray for us.
Our Lady of Prompt Succor against lightning and tempest, pray for us.
Our Lady of Prompt Succor against destruction by flood, pray for us.
Our Lady of Prompt Succor of travelers, pray for us.
Our Lady of Prompt Succor of navigators, pray for us.
Our Lady of Prompt Succor of the shipwrecked, pray for us.
Our Lady of Prompt Succor against the enemies of our country, pray for us.
Our Lady of Prompt Succor in time of war, pray for us.
Our Lady of Prompt Succor of those aspiring to the holy priesthood and the religious life, pray for us.
Our Lady of Prompt Succor of laborers in the Lord's vineyard, pray for us.
Our Lady of Prompt Succor of missionaries who spread the faith, pray for us.
Our Lady of Prompt Succor of our Holy Father the Pope, pray for us.
Our Lady of Prompt Succor for those searching for the faith, pray for us.
Our Lady of Prompt Succor against the enemies of the Church, pray for us.
Our Lady of Prompt Succor at the hour of death, pray for us.
Our Lady of Prompt Succor for the deliverance of the souls in purgatory, pray for us.
Lamb of God, Who takes away the sins of the world, spare us, O Lord.
Lamb of God, Who takes away the sins of the world, graciously hear us, O Lord.
Lamb of God, Who takes away the sins of the world, have mercy on us.
V: Our Lady of Prompt Succor, pray for us.
R: That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
O Almighty and Eternal God, Who sees us surrounded by so many dangers and miseries, grant in Your infinite goodness that the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of Your Divine Son, may defend us from the evil spirit and protect us against all adversities, that always and with prompt succor she may deliver us from every evil of soul and body, and safely guide us to the kingdom of heaven, through the merits of Our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son, Who lives and reigns with You in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, world without end. Amen.
Contemplation:
If our eyes are always on heaven and God, at the end of life we will find ourselves in His Presence.
(Recitation of the Rosary)
Imprimatur:
Joseph F. Rummel
Archbishop of New Orleans.
New Orleans.
February 11, 1936.
The Sunday Homily: Fr. James
"Before getting into this Sunday's liturgy, it has been a good week for the pro-life movement. Some of our Bishops from around the country have been very vocal. Very good. I hope that they will keep it up. If all of our Bishops were to speak strongly and with unity, the abortion issue would end very quickly. Senator Barack Obama, a huge supporter of abortion and late-term abortions, is having his week of fame. On Monday, I went to the local Barnes and Noble bookstore in Corpus Christi, Texas and purchased a very interesting book: The Obama Nation by Jerome Corsi. It has been hard to put it down. If you want to know the facts about Barack Obama and how he is a radical leftist, you need to read this book.
For all of you E-parishioners living in the U.S., happy Labor Day. Work is good and let's be thankful that we have plenty of it. However, it is also important to remember this: let us work in order to live and not live in order to work. Balance is very important. We need to avoid any aspect of materialism. OK, now let's get into today's liturgy...
Richard lived a very normal, happy life in his quiet, rural New Hampshire home. His parents were very devout Catholics and were wonderful parents.
When Richard was nine years old, his ordinary life changed forever. Richard was diagnosed with polio. The disease left him completely paralyzed. His paralysis was so severe, that he had to breathe by physically gulping for air, something like what a frog does. At night, he slept in an iron lung.
Without a doubt, Richard’s cross was very heavy. Nevertheless, everyone who came into contact with him was astonished by his patience and joy within the very difficult circumstances of his daily existence.
However, initially, Richard did not carry his cross well. Understandably he gave into self-pity, until one day his parish priest, through good, sound advice, snapped him out of his slump. From that moment on, Richard decided to help others by speaking to any group that would listen to his story. With the help of his parents, Richard Chaput of Nashua, New Hampshire traveled all over his home state, and his testimony touched thousands of lives.
Most of us when we suffer wonder, why me. Why do I have to suffer? The meaning of life will be become clearer to us when we realize that we will find purpose in life when our search leads us from why to whom. Suffering does have a human face to it. We have only to look at our Lord Jesus crucified on the Cross and there we will find the meaning of our existence and the answer to our searching and longing.
In our suffering we demand answers. We are not satisfied with pietistic platitudes such as “just offer it up” or “you will be just fine”. Suffering, especially chronic physical sickness, deep emotional pain, and death itself, causes a personal crisis that forces us to go deep into ourselves and ask those questions that are most fundamental to our human existence. It is precisely in the crucible of intense suffering that we either come close to God or rebel against his loving presence.
“Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me” (Matthew 16: 24). In these words taken from this Sunday’s gospel narrative we discover the drastic invitation of Jesus. Embracing the cross, our personal cross or crosses that cannot be transferred to another is an essential aspect to our walk with the Lord Jesus.
Jesus and the two thieves were not the only people ever crucified by the Roman Empire. Crucifixion was the preferred form of capital punishment used for those living under Roman jurisdiction but who were not actually Roman citizens. Beheading was the punishment of choice for Roman citizens, crucifixion for non-Roman citizens. Just think how horrible crucifixion must have been if the Romans spared their own citizens such a terrible death. So painful was death by crucifixion that the Romans eventually did away with it as a form of capital punishment.
The Jews were accustomed to seeing people crucified. Political insurrections on the part of the Jewish populace were punished by mass crucifixions When Jesus turned to his disciples and said "Take up your cross and come follow me", it was if he were saying, "Take up your gas chamber, take up your electric chair, take up your noose, and come follow me". Those listening to him knew precisely what crucifixion entailed. While the comparison may sound absurd, nevertheless, it is precisely in the daily carrying of our cross that we will find the loving presence of the crucified and risen Lord.
Too many of our contemporaries seek an easy life without suffering, without sacrifice, without renunciation, without mortification. Many people would like to stand under the cross of Jesus and cry out as did the jeering crowd on the first Good Friday, “Come down from the cross”. Contemporary society does not want to suffer and this is why we need to heed the words of St. Paul: “Do not conform yourselves to his age…” (Romans 12: 2). We must be convinced that there is only one Jesus, and he is the crucified Jesus who rose from the dead. Christianity without the cross is not Christianity; only through the cross of Jesus have we gained salvation.
So, when we suffer, we should not consider our suffering a burden; rather we must look upon the cross we bear as an immense gift from God. Mother Theresa once said: “Suffering is a sign that we have come so close to Jesus on the cross that he can kiss us and that he can show that he is in love with us by giving us an opportunity to share in his passion”.
Undoubtedly there are many forms of suffering that are quite mysterious. However, the need to carry our cross as an essential dimension of Christianity does not take away the need and the duty to seek cures for illnesses and to make this life a better life for everyone. Although human progress continues to make this earth a better place for everyone, suffering, in one form or another, will always be a part of our existence. The meaning of suffering only makes sense when we contemplate Jesus Christ crucified and then raised from the dead.
When we ask the question why, we need only look upon the crucifix. It is there that we will find the meaning of suffering and the exact reason why we too must carry our own cross.
Each of us has a cross to carry. We must all identify our crosses and carry them with patience, joy, and love. Why should we complain about something that will be the means by which we will gain eternal life?
As Thomas a' Kempis reminds us, "The cross, therefore, is always ready; it awaits you everywhere. No matter where you may go, you cannot escape it, for wherever you go you take yourself with you and shall always find yourself. Turn where you will -- above, below, without, or within -- you will find a cross in everything, and everywhere you must have patience if you would have peace within and merit an eternal crown.
If you carry the cross willingly, it will carry and lead you to the desired goal where indeed there shall be no more suffering, but here there shall be. If you carry it unwillingly, you create a burden for yourself and increase the load, though still you have to bear it. If you cast away one cross, you will find another and perhaps a heavier one" (The Imitation of Christ, 2:12).
A number of years ago, a young friend of mine was diagnosed with cancer at nineteen. Sadly, he died two years later. However, his acceptance of this challenge and the manner in which he embraced his daily suffering not only transformed his life, but it transformed the lives of those who were closest to him.
One day after he returned from a weeklong series of treatments at the hospital, his dad suggested that before returning home, they stop by their parish and pray the Stations of the Cross together. The father told his son that contemplating how much Jesus had suffered for them would be important, particularly in their present trial. Both father and son had understood the transforming power of the Cross of Jesus."
Further Reading - Memo to U.S. Bishops
http://www.spiritdaily.com/memobishopspolitics.htm
More great news - McCain picks pro-life woman as VP pick
http://www.lifesitenews.com/ldn/2008/aug/08082901.html
For all of you E-parishioners living in the U.S., happy Labor Day. Work is good and let's be thankful that we have plenty of it. However, it is also important to remember this: let us work in order to live and not live in order to work. Balance is very important. We need to avoid any aspect of materialism. OK, now let's get into today's liturgy...
Richard lived a very normal, happy life in his quiet, rural New Hampshire home. His parents were very devout Catholics and were wonderful parents.
When Richard was nine years old, his ordinary life changed forever. Richard was diagnosed with polio. The disease left him completely paralyzed. His paralysis was so severe, that he had to breathe by physically gulping for air, something like what a frog does. At night, he slept in an iron lung.
Without a doubt, Richard’s cross was very heavy. Nevertheless, everyone who came into contact with him was astonished by his patience and joy within the very difficult circumstances of his daily existence.
However, initially, Richard did not carry his cross well. Understandably he gave into self-pity, until one day his parish priest, through good, sound advice, snapped him out of his slump. From that moment on, Richard decided to help others by speaking to any group that would listen to his story. With the help of his parents, Richard Chaput of Nashua, New Hampshire traveled all over his home state, and his testimony touched thousands of lives.
Most of us when we suffer wonder, why me. Why do I have to suffer? The meaning of life will be become clearer to us when we realize that we will find purpose in life when our search leads us from why to whom. Suffering does have a human face to it. We have only to look at our Lord Jesus crucified on the Cross and there we will find the meaning of our existence and the answer to our searching and longing.
In our suffering we demand answers. We are not satisfied with pietistic platitudes such as “just offer it up” or “you will be just fine”. Suffering, especially chronic physical sickness, deep emotional pain, and death itself, causes a personal crisis that forces us to go deep into ourselves and ask those questions that are most fundamental to our human existence. It is precisely in the crucible of intense suffering that we either come close to God or rebel against his loving presence.
“Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me” (Matthew 16: 24). In these words taken from this Sunday’s gospel narrative we discover the drastic invitation of Jesus. Embracing the cross, our personal cross or crosses that cannot be transferred to another is an essential aspect to our walk with the Lord Jesus.
Jesus and the two thieves were not the only people ever crucified by the Roman Empire. Crucifixion was the preferred form of capital punishment used for those living under Roman jurisdiction but who were not actually Roman citizens. Beheading was the punishment of choice for Roman citizens, crucifixion for non-Roman citizens. Just think how horrible crucifixion must have been if the Romans spared their own citizens such a terrible death. So painful was death by crucifixion that the Romans eventually did away with it as a form of capital punishment.
The Jews were accustomed to seeing people crucified. Political insurrections on the part of the Jewish populace were punished by mass crucifixions When Jesus turned to his disciples and said "Take up your cross and come follow me", it was if he were saying, "Take up your gas chamber, take up your electric chair, take up your noose, and come follow me". Those listening to him knew precisely what crucifixion entailed. While the comparison may sound absurd, nevertheless, it is precisely in the daily carrying of our cross that we will find the loving presence of the crucified and risen Lord.
Too many of our contemporaries seek an easy life without suffering, without sacrifice, without renunciation, without mortification. Many people would like to stand under the cross of Jesus and cry out as did the jeering crowd on the first Good Friday, “Come down from the cross”. Contemporary society does not want to suffer and this is why we need to heed the words of St. Paul: “Do not conform yourselves to his age…” (Romans 12: 2). We must be convinced that there is only one Jesus, and he is the crucified Jesus who rose from the dead. Christianity without the cross is not Christianity; only through the cross of Jesus have we gained salvation.
So, when we suffer, we should not consider our suffering a burden; rather we must look upon the cross we bear as an immense gift from God. Mother Theresa once said: “Suffering is a sign that we have come so close to Jesus on the cross that he can kiss us and that he can show that he is in love with us by giving us an opportunity to share in his passion”.
Undoubtedly there are many forms of suffering that are quite mysterious. However, the need to carry our cross as an essential dimension of Christianity does not take away the need and the duty to seek cures for illnesses and to make this life a better life for everyone. Although human progress continues to make this earth a better place for everyone, suffering, in one form or another, will always be a part of our existence. The meaning of suffering only makes sense when we contemplate Jesus Christ crucified and then raised from the dead.
When we ask the question why, we need only look upon the crucifix. It is there that we will find the meaning of suffering and the exact reason why we too must carry our own cross.
Each of us has a cross to carry. We must all identify our crosses and carry them with patience, joy, and love. Why should we complain about something that will be the means by which we will gain eternal life?
As Thomas a' Kempis reminds us, "The cross, therefore, is always ready; it awaits you everywhere. No matter where you may go, you cannot escape it, for wherever you go you take yourself with you and shall always find yourself. Turn where you will -- above, below, without, or within -- you will find a cross in everything, and everywhere you must have patience if you would have peace within and merit an eternal crown.
If you carry the cross willingly, it will carry and lead you to the desired goal where indeed there shall be no more suffering, but here there shall be. If you carry it unwillingly, you create a burden for yourself and increase the load, though still you have to bear it. If you cast away one cross, you will find another and perhaps a heavier one" (The Imitation of Christ, 2:12).
A number of years ago, a young friend of mine was diagnosed with cancer at nineteen. Sadly, he died two years later. However, his acceptance of this challenge and the manner in which he embraced his daily suffering not only transformed his life, but it transformed the lives of those who were closest to him.
One day after he returned from a weeklong series of treatments at the hospital, his dad suggested that before returning home, they stop by their parish and pray the Stations of the Cross together. The father told his son that contemplating how much Jesus had suffered for them would be important, particularly in their present trial. Both father and son had understood the transforming power of the Cross of Jesus."
Further Reading - Memo to U.S. Bishops
http://www.spiritdaily.com/memobishopspolitics.htm
More great news - McCain picks pro-life woman as VP pick
http://www.lifesitenews.com/ldn/2008/aug/08082901.html
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Building new website: have a look!
Due to a data base error, my main website is missing in action! I have to rebuild my site and years of work is missing at the moment. I'd like to give you an address to a temporary site. I will soon have this new site connected to my old website's address. This is a start. The header will be different as will lots of other things. At least it is a new beginning! Go and take a look by clicking here!
God bless your holiday week end!
Donna-Marie
God bless your holiday week end!
Donna-Marie
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
The Catholic Lion Roars
Great words to ponder today...
"It appears that the Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi in the past few days has succeeded in accomplishing something American Catholics have been waiting for months now. Her incorrect understanding of Catholic teaching on the matter of abortion has caused the sleeping lions, namely the American Catholic Bishops to awaken from their silent slumber. Yesterday, the roars of the Arch-lions of New York, Philadelphia, Washington and Denver strongly rebuked Pelosi while reaffirming the correct teachings of the Catholic Church. This call to action is precisely the event that is needed to continue the campaign of Pro-Live advocacy in the Catholic Church, as the American bishops have finally returned from what has seemed to be an extended summer hiatus.
With His Eminence Cardinal Rigali issuing the first pastoral reminders to the Catholic flock through the United States Catholic Conference of Bishops website, the political scenario again brings Catholic voters back to an awareness of the sanctity of human life in Church teachings. At the same time, yesterdays declarations against Pro-Choice candidates reaffirm the importance of the Catholic voters in this upcoming presidential election. The misconceptions of such groups as, Catholics United, that advocate platforms contrary to the genuine teachings of Catholic moral and ethical teachings based upon the humanist formed conscience, the American Bishops have appropriately responded to the ever deepening chasm that separates the real appreciation of the true Catholic moral life as proclaimed by the Magisterium and the distorted and often secular humanism influenced understanding of morality that continues to spread in more liberal factions of the Catholic Church... (Continued here)"
Friday, August 22, 2008
The Presidential elections and your vote
Fr. James's Sunday Homily:
"Once again, we are faced with tough decisions as we choose a presidential candidate who will lead this nation for another four years. Once again, the ideological battlefields, the cultural war, and the confusion have all intensified as Election Day draws near. Once again, Catholics in this country find themselves void of leadership and clear guidance that will help them make correct decisions when they go into the voting booth in November.
When we take a look at any candidate for political office, we should ask three fundamental questions: 1) Which candidate affirms that life begins at the moment of conception and will do all that he can to defend the rights of the unborn? 2) Which candidate affirms that marriage is between a man and woman and will do all that he can to defend and protect marriage? 3) Which candidate will appoint pro-life and pro-marriage Supreme Court Justices?
Catholics are also concerned about the war in Iraq, the environment, the economy, capital punishment, poverty and immigration. These too are important issues, but the question that divides many Catholics is this: can I vote for a candidate that supports my beliefs although that candidate supports abortion? I would argue that we cannot. I would argue that at this moment in history there is only one issue and that issue is abortion. Why do I say this? Legalized abortion is destroying our nation. Let us remember the haunting words of Mother Theresa: "Any country that accepts abortion is not teaching its people to love, but to use violence to get what they want. That is why the greatest destroyer of love and peace is abortion".
Let's look at it this way. There are more babies killed in one day in the US by abortion (4,500) than all the US soldiers combined since the Iraq war started. There have been more babies killed by abortion since Roe v. Wade than people killed in World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War and both Iraq wars combined. An average of 150 convicted murderers, proven guilty, are killed by the death penalty in Texas every year. 90,000 innocent babies are killed in Texas every year by abortion.
Abortion affects every hot button issue and concern that we Americans have during a presidential election. If we can kill an innocent child in the womb of a mother and that no longer shocks us as a nation, then we can justify and get used to anything... (Continued here.)"
"Once again, we are faced with tough decisions as we choose a presidential candidate who will lead this nation for another four years. Once again, the ideological battlefields, the cultural war, and the confusion have all intensified as Election Day draws near. Once again, Catholics in this country find themselves void of leadership and clear guidance that will help them make correct decisions when they go into the voting booth in November.
When we take a look at any candidate for political office, we should ask three fundamental questions: 1) Which candidate affirms that life begins at the moment of conception and will do all that he can to defend the rights of the unborn? 2) Which candidate affirms that marriage is between a man and woman and will do all that he can to defend and protect marriage? 3) Which candidate will appoint pro-life and pro-marriage Supreme Court Justices?
Catholics are also concerned about the war in Iraq, the environment, the economy, capital punishment, poverty and immigration. These too are important issues, but the question that divides many Catholics is this: can I vote for a candidate that supports my beliefs although that candidate supports abortion? I would argue that we cannot. I would argue that at this moment in history there is only one issue and that issue is abortion. Why do I say this? Legalized abortion is destroying our nation. Let us remember the haunting words of Mother Theresa: "Any country that accepts abortion is not teaching its people to love, but to use violence to get what they want. That is why the greatest destroyer of love and peace is abortion".
Let's look at it this way. There are more babies killed in one day in the US by abortion (4,500) than all the US soldiers combined since the Iraq war started. There have been more babies killed by abortion since Roe v. Wade than people killed in World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War and both Iraq wars combined. An average of 150 convicted murderers, proven guilty, are killed by the death penalty in Texas every year. 90,000 innocent babies are killed in Texas every year by abortion.
Abortion affects every hot button issue and concern that we Americans have during a presidential election. If we can kill an innocent child in the womb of a mother and that no longer shocks us as a nation, then we can justify and get used to anything... (Continued here.)"
Stay tuned for Fr. James's homily regarding the election
Stay tuned! I will be posting an exemplary homily from Fr. James regarding the upcoming election!
Busy, busy, busy!
I have been working on a couple of projects that have been keeping me extremely busy, so please excuse the lack of posts of late. I'll be sharing some news on that soon. Additionally, I am experiencing a lot of technical issues. One such issue is with my website which has been down and which requires many conversations with tech support and waiting on hold for a half hour or more before they answer the phone, etc. A good trial of patience!
The company contacted me late yesterday to tell me that my website was fixed! Unfortunately, they were wrong. It is still not working. Trying to keep a sense of humor about it, I will tell you: You know you have been on the phone with tech support way too long and way too often when you wake up in the morning and the background music from tech support that plays when you are on hold is playing in your head! That's just what happened to me this morning!
Stay tuned! Hopefully it will be resolved soon, maybe even today!
God bless!
Donna-Marie
The company contacted me late yesterday to tell me that my website was fixed! Unfortunately, they were wrong. It is still not working. Trying to keep a sense of humor about it, I will tell you: You know you have been on the phone with tech support way too long and way too often when you wake up in the morning and the background music from tech support that plays when you are on hold is playing in your head! That's just what happened to me this morning!
Stay tuned! Hopefully it will be resolved soon, maybe even today!
God bless!
Donna-Marie
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