As the mainstream media tout the Pope's embrace of earth-worshiping climate change theory and adoration of Catholic socialists in American history, the public may have missed the portions of his address to Congress against abortion, same-sex marriage, and the degradation of family, as well as Pope Francis' very visible opposition to ObamaCare's attacks on religious liberty.
For background, click headlines below to read previous articles:
Vatican Opposes Obama Pushing Gay Agenda at Pope
Vatican Says Media Distort Pope's Words
Pope Decries Abortion, Again; Media Ignore Him
Pope Blasts Liberal 'christians' as Pagans
Also read President Obama Asks God to Bless Planned Parenthood
-- From "Transcript: Read the Speech Pope Francis Gave to Congress" posted at Time Magazine 9/24/15
. . . Let us remember the Golden Rule: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you” (Mt 7:12). . . . The yardstick we use for others will be the yardstick which time will use for us. The Golden Rule also reminds us of our responsibility to protect and defend human life at every stage of its development.
. . . I will end my visit to your country in Philadelphia, where I will take part in the World Meeting of Families. It is my wish that throughout my visit the family should be a recurrent theme. How essential the family has been to the building of this country! And how worthy it remains of our support and encouragement! Yet I cannot hide my concern for the family, which is threatened, perhaps as never before, from within and without. Fundamental relationships are being called into question, as is the very basis of marriage and the family. I can only reiterate the importance and, above all, the richness and the beauty of family life.
In particular, I would like to call attention to those family members who are the most vulnerable, the young. . . . we might say that we live in a culture which pressures young people not to start a family, because they lack possibilities for the future. Yet this same culture presents others with so many options that they too are dissuaded from starting a family. . . .
God bless America!
To read the entire transcript above, CLICK HERE.
From "In meeting with nuns, Pope Francis makes quiet protest of Obamacare" by Gregory Korte, USA TODAY 9/23/15
Pope Francis made an unscheduled stop to visit the Little Sisters of the Poor Wednesday, a move that Vatican officials said was intended to send a message of support in the nuns' battle against Obamacare.
The religious order of Catholic sisters is suing the Obama administration over a provision of the Affordable Care Act that the administration has interpreted as requiring the sisters to purchase health insurance with birth control coverage.
Louisville Archbishop Joseph Kurtz, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, said the court case represents the broader understanding of freedom of religion held by the Catholic church.
“Freedom of religion also means the ability to live out your religion,” he said. “The last thing the Little Sisters of the Poor want to do is sue somebody. They want to serve the poor and the elderly, and do so in a way that doesn’t conflict with their beliefs. We feel strongly about that. It’s a freedom not of special privilege, it’s a freedom to serve others, and serve others in such a way that does not compromise the integrity of our beliefs.”
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Pope visited Little Sisters of the Poor to show support in fight against Obama’s HHS mandate: Vatican" by Lisa Bourne, LifeSiteNews 9/24/15
The Holy Father visited the Little Sisters of the Poor Wednesday after earlier in the day calling for protection of religious freedom in his welcome address at the White House.
“This is a sign, obviously of support for them,” said Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi, head of the Holy See Press Office. “In this sense it is connected also to the words that the Pope has said in support of the Bishops of the United States in the speech to President Obama.”
The sisters’ refusal to compromise their Catholic values by providing contraception and abortifacients to their staff as required with the Obamacare mandate and resulting continued legal fight for a mandate exemption, rejected because they don’t exclusively employ Catholics and they serve people of all faiths, has made them an example of the attack on religious freedom in the U.S.
The [Obama] administration demanded the nuns comply in January 2014 even after the Supreme Court gave them an injunction temporarily protecting them from the mandate.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Also read Catholics Defeat ObamaCare: Appeals Court Ruling
From "5 Judges: Forcing Contraception Reg on Nuns Like Providing 'Only Non-Kosher Food' to Jewish Prisoner" by Terence P. Jeffrey, CNSNews.com 9/24/15
Five appeals court judges have joined in a dissenting opinion stating that the type of argument being used to justify the government's efforts to force the Little Sisters of the Poor to comply with an Obamacare regulation that requires their health-care plan to cover sterilizations, contraceptives and abortion-inducing drugs could also be used to force a Christian to work on Dec. 25 because the court had determined that “sources show that Jesus was actually born in March.”
Or, the judges said, the same type of reasoning could be used to justify providing a Jewish prisoner with “only non-Kosher food.”
The judges were objecting to a decision by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 10th Circuit, on which they sit, which ruled that the Obama administration can force the nuns to comply with the regulation even though doing so compels the sisters to act against their Catholic faith.
“The Little Sisters of the Poor are Catholic nuns who devote their lives to caring for the elderly poor,” said [the Catholic organization's] petition. “The government has put them to the impossible choice of either violating the law or violating the faith upon which their lives and ministry are based.
“When a law demands that a person do something the person considers sinful and the penalty for refusal is a large financial penalty, then the law imposes a substantial burden on that person’s free exercise of religion,” said the judges.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Also read 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals Forces Christians into Abortion Business
And read Over-the-Counter Abortion Paid by ObamaCare: Study
Showing posts with label social Gospel. Show all posts
Showing posts with label social Gospel. Show all posts
Friday, September 25, 2015
Friday, June 19, 2015
Censored: Pope Slams Environmentalists on Abortion
Once again, the liberal mainstream media are touting Francis I, their "pet pope," by cherry picking portions of his Laudato Si' — what the environmentalists call "the Vatican’s encyclical on climate change." Besides embracing totalitarians' notion of "man-made global warming," the Pope also ripped advocates of abortion, transgenderism, population control, animal rights, etc. for worshiping God's creation as a god itself.
For background, click headlines below to read previous articles:
Pope Decries Abortion, Again; Media Ignore Him
Vatican Says Media Distort Pope's Words
Media Filter Pope's Procreation Declarations
Pope Cracks Down on American Liberal Nuns, Priests
Pope Blasts Liberal 'christians' as Pagans
-- From "Pope Francis: Climate Change and Abortion Are ‘Interrelated’" by Clare Foran and Jason Plautz, National Journal 6/18/15
The highly anticipated document says that global warming is real, is caused partly by human activity, and is a grave threat to humanity. . . .
For Pope Francis, caring about the environment goes hand in hand with taking a strong stand against abortion. . . .
Francis suggests that efforts to slow population growth are misguided and a distraction . . .
The encyclical says that governments need to think as "one world with a common plan" . . .
One solution that Francis swiftly dismisses is a deal that would use carbon credits in a cap-and-trade scenario.
Francis takes on pesticides in a section of the encyclical focused on "pollution, waste, and the throwaway culture." After noting that daily exposure to pollutants can create serious and even deadly health risks, the pope says that "fertilizers, insecticides, fungicides, herbicides, and agrotoxins in general" cause pollution that impacts everyone.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Pope Francis links saving the planet to ending abortion" by Rose Troup Buchanan, UK Independent 6/18/15
Pope Francis’s has explicitly linked protecting the environment with protecting the life of an unborn child in his encyclical.
The publication of the Pope’s first solely authored encyclical has been widely celebrated by environmentalists, climate change campaigners and other religious leaders.
However, the text confirms the Pope’s views on abortion and the sanctity of life in line with traditional Roman Catholic teaching.
His comments were welcomed by conservative elements in the Catholic Church – no doubt concerned by his liberal leanings towards the poor, as well as the LGBT community – but dismayed pro-abortion campaigners.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Pro-Lifers: Pope Rejects Population Control, Abortion As Solutions To Global Warming" by Michael Bastasch, Daily Caller 6/17/15
“Importantly, he suggests that to look to population control for a solution to environmental problems is not facing the real problem of waste and overconsumption,” John-Henry Westen, pro-life advocate and co-founder of the news site LifeSiteNews.com, told The Daily Caller News Foundation.
“In keeping with the pro-life traditions of the Church, the pope also condemned the ‘throw-away culture,’ and specifically said that we may not justify abortion with an appeal to protecting nature,” Westen told TheDCNF.
“He also criticized those who would turn nature into a god, and he criticized many animal rights activists who are, hypocritically, unwilling to save human beings,” Westen added.
One concern among pro-life advocates was that two of the pope’s environmental advisers have advocated for population control methods such as abortion, contraception and sterilization. Pro-lifers are referring to economist Jeffrey Sachs and climatologist Hans Joachim Schellnhuber.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Pope Francis Slams Abortion and Population Control in New Environmental Encyclical" by Steven Ertelt, LifeNews.com 6/18/15
“When we fail to acknowledge as part of reality the worth of a poor person, a human embryo, a person with disabilities – to offer just a few examples – it becomes difficult to hear the cry of nature itself; everything is connected,” Pope Francis writes. “Christian thought sees human beings as possessing a particular dignity above other creatures; it thus inculcates esteem for each person and respect for others.”
The leader of the Catholic Church continues: “Since everything is interrelated, concern for the protection of nature is also incompatible with the justification of abortion. How can we genuinely teach the importance of concern for other vulnerable beings, however troublesome or inconvenient they may be, if we fail to protect a human embryo, even when its presence is uncomfortable and creates difficulties?”
“If personal and social sensitivity towards the acceptance of the new life is lost, then other forms of acceptance that are valuable for society also wither away,” he adds.
“This false model of man and society embodies a practical atheism, de facto negating the Word of God that says: ‘Let us make man in our image, according to our likeness,’” he explained.
The Pope said “there is an originary dignity of every man and woman that cannot be suppressed, that cannot be touched by any power or ideology.”
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "For Pope Francis, ‘green’ equals pro-life" by Thomas D. Williams, research fellow at the Center for Ethics and Culture at the University of Notre Dame, posted at Crux 6/18/15
This Pope had already revealed on multiple occasions his understanding that abortion is a “scourge” and that “a just society recognizes the primacy of the right to life from conception to natural death.” Using his characteristically colorful language, Francis has compared abortion activists with the Italian Mafia, drawn a parallel between abortion and Herod’s slaughter of the innocents, and wondered aloud how “modern” societies can get up in arms over parents spanking their children when they have laws “allowing them to kill their children before they are born.”
Now in his second encyclical, Laudato Si’, the Pope has integrated the care and protection of the unborn with responsible stewardship of creation. In rather blunt language, Francis has stated that concern for the protection of nature is simply “incompatible with the justification of abortion.”
This explicit disassociation of ecological engagement from the taking of unborn life will no doubt encourage those who had been worried that Francis’ environmentalism was dangerously close to being coopted by international programs advocating abortion as an essential means of population control.
. . . For the pope, this interconnectedness means that a person who cares for the protection of an endangered species or worries about the melting of the polar ice cap must also care for the unborn. “When we fail to acknowledge as part of reality the worth of a poor person, a human embryo, a person with disabilities — to offer just a few examples — it becomes difficult to hear the cry of nature itself; everything is connected,” he said.
To read the entire opinion column above, CLICK HERE.
Also read Catholic Bishops Warn Voting for Democrats is 'Grave Sin' for example, Rep. Nancy Pelosi is a Fraud, Catholic Leaders Say
And read Pope Francis I Says Wayward Politicians Can't Take Communion
From "Pope’s encyclical: Pro-climate-change, but anti-population control, pro-life, and anti-gender ideology" by John-Henry Westen, LifeSiteNews 6/18/15
The environmental tome of 180 pages – the longest encyclical in history – is an often-fascinating read, with many touching passages reflecting on a Catholic vision of care and concern for creation. These many passages, however, are being largely lost and subsumed under the most emphatic – even alarmist – passages devoted to detailed descriptions of "climate change" theory (described as fact) and the dire consequences of failing to take drastic measures to fight such change.
And those startling quotes have stolen the media narrative, making this, at least for the media world and thus the general public, the "climate-change encyclical." Released, as the encyclical was, just prior to the pope’s visit to the United Nations and the US Congress in September, as well as the World Climate Summit in Paris in December, this narrative was at least partially intentional on the part of the Vatican and the pope.
. . . The new encyclical also continues the tradition launched by popes Benedict and John Paul II of tying respecting nature to respecting life in the womb and God-given gender. The pope also clearly decries the idea of reducing population to address environmental concerns.
Out of the 245 paragraphs, the pope devotes two to debunking population control as an appropriate means to fighting climate change or general environmental degradation.
. . . This is the fourth time Pope Francis has condemned gender ideology [in his paragraph #155]. He does so this time in the language of respecting nature; in January, he did so by blasting the forcing of gender ideology onto students as a form of "ideological colonization" comparable to Hitler Youth indoctrination.
To read the entire opinion column above, CLICK HERE.
Excerpts from "Full text: The encyclical letter of the Holy Father Francis - Laudato Si': On Care for Our Common Home" posted at Catholic Herald 6/18/15
iii. The Crisis and Effects of Modern Anthropocentrism
115. Modern anthropocentrism has paradoxically ended up prizing technical thought over reality, since “the technological mind sees nature as an insensate order, as a cold body of facts, as a mere ‘given’, as an object of utility, as raw material to be hammered into useful shape; it views the cosmos similarly as a mere ‘space’ into which objects can be thrown with complete indifference” The intrinsic dignity of the world is thus compromised. When human beings fail to find their true place in this world, they misunderstand themselves and end up acting against themselves: “Not only has God given the earth to man, who must use it with respect for the original good purpose for which it was given, but, man too is God’s gift to man. He must therefore respect the natural and moral structure with which he has been endowed”.
116. Modernity has been marked by an excessive anthropocentrism which today, under another guise, continues to stand in the way of shared understanding and of any effort to strengthen social bonds. The time has come to pay renewed attention to reality and the limits it imposes; this in turn is the condition for a more sound and fruitful development of individuals and society. An inadequate presentation of Christian anthropology gave rise to a wrong understanding of the relationship between human beings and the world. Often, what was handed on was a Promethean vision of mastery over the world, which gave the impression that the protection of nature was something that only the faint-hearted cared about. Instead, our “dominion” over the universe should be understood more properly in the sense of responsible stewardship.
117. Neglecting to monitor the harm done to nature and the environmental impact of our decisions is only the most striking sign of a disregard for the message contained in the structures of nature itself. When we fail to acknowledge as part of reality the worth of a poor person, a human embryo, a person with disabilities – to offer just a few examples – it becomes difficult to hear the cry of nature itself; everything is connected. Once the human being declares independence from reality and behaves with absolute dominion, the very foundations of our life begin to crumble, for “instead of carrying out his role as a cooperator with God in the work of creation, man sets himself up in place of God and thus ends up provoking a rebellion on the part of nature”.
118. This situation has led to a constant schizophrenia, wherein a technocracy which sees no intrinsic value in lesser beings coexists with the other extreme, which sees no special value in human beings. But one cannot prescind from humanity. There can be no renewal of our relationship with nature without a renewal of humanity itself. There can be no ecology without an adequate anthropology. When the human person is considered as simply one being among others, the product of chance or physical determinism, then “our overall sense of responsibility wanes”. A misguided anthropocentrism need not necessarily yield to “biocentrism”, for that would entail adding yet another imbalance, failing to solve present problems and adding new ones. Human beings cannot be expected to feel responsibility for the world unless, at the same time, their unique capacities of knowledge, will, freedom and responsibility are recognized and valued.
119. Nor must the critique of a misguided anthropocentrism underestimate the importance of interpersonal relations. If the present ecological crisis is one small sign of the ethical, cultural and spiritual crisis of modernity, we cannot presume to heal our relationship with nature and the environment without healing all fundamental human relationships. Christian thought sees human beings as possessing a particular dignity above other creatures; it thus inculcates esteem for each person and respect for others. Our openness to others, each of whom is a “thou” capable of knowing, loving and entering into dialogue, remains the source of our nobility as human persons. A correct relationship with the created world demands that we not weaken this social dimension of openness to others, much less the transcendent dimension of our openness to the “Thou” of God. Our relationship with the environment can never be isolated from our relationship with others and with God. Otherwise, it would be nothing more than romantic individualism dressed up in ecological garb, locking us into a stifling immanence.
120. Since everything is interrelated, concern for the protection of nature is also incompatible with the justification of abortion. How can we genuinely teach the importance of concern for other vulnerable beings, however troublesome or inconvenient they may be, if we fail to protect a human embryo, even when its presence is uncomfortable and creates difficulties? “If personal and social sensitivity towards the acceptance of the new life is lost, then other forms of acceptance that are valuable for society also wither away”.
121. We need to develop a new synthesis capable of overcoming the false arguments of recent centuries. Christianity, in fidelity to its own identity and the rich deposit of truth which it has received from Jesus Christ, continues to reflect on these issues in fruitful dialogue with changing historical situations. In doing so, it reveals its eternal newness.
Practical relativism
122. A misguided anthropocentrism leads to a misguided lifestyle. In the Apostolic Exhortation Evangelii Gaudium, I noted that the practical relativism typical of our age is “even more dangerous than doctrinal relativism”. When human beings place themselves at the centre, they give absolute priority to immediate convenience and all else becomes relative. Hence we should not be surprised to find, in conjunction with the omnipresent technocratic paradigm and the cult of unlimited human power, the rise of a relativism which sees everything as irrelevant unless it serves one’s own immediate interests. There is a logic in all this whereby different attitudes can feed on one another, leading to environmental degradation and social decay.
123. The culture of relativism is the same disorder which drives one person to take advantage of another, to treat others as mere objects, imposing forced labour on them or enslaving them to pay their debts. The same kind of thinking leads to the sexual exploitation of children and abandonment of the elderly who no longer serve our interests. It is also the mindset of those who say: Let us allow the invisible forces of the market to regulate the economy, and consider their impact on society and nature as collateral damage. In the absence of objective truths or sound principles other than the satisfaction of our own desires and immediate needs, what limits can be placed on human trafficking, organized crime, the drug trade, commerce in blood diamonds and the fur of endangered species? Is it not the same relativistic logic which justifies buying the organs of the poor for resale or use in experimentation, or eliminating children because they are not what their parents wanted? This same “use and throw away” logic generates so much waste, because of the disordered desire to consume more than what is really necessary. We should not think that political efforts or the force of law will be sufficient to prevent actions which affect the environment because, when the culture itself is corrupt and objective truth and universally valid principles are no longer upheld, then laws can only be seen as arbitrary impositions or obstacles to be avoided.
. . .
136. . . . it is troubling that, when some ecological movements defend the integrity of the environment, rightly demanding that certain limits be imposed on scientific research, they sometimes fail to apply those same principles to human life. There is a tendency to justify transgressing all boundaries when experimentation is carried out on living human embryos. We forget that the inalienable worth of a human being transcends his or her degree of development. In the same way, when technology disregards the great ethical principles, it ends up considering any practice whatsoever as licit. As we have seen in this chapter, a technology severed from ethics will not easily be able to limit its own power.
. . .
155. Human ecology also implies another profound reality: the relationship between human life and the moral law, which is inscribed in our nature and is necessary for the creation of a more dignified environment. Pope Benedict XVI spoke of an “ecology of man”, based on the fact that “man too has a nature that he must respect and that he cannot manipulate at will”. It is enough to recognize that our body itself establishes us in a direct relationship with the environment and with other living beings. The acceptance of our bodies as God’s gift is vital for welcoming and accepting the entire world as a gift from the Father and our common home, whereas thinking that we enjoy absolute power over our own bodies turns, often subtly, into thinking that we enjoy absolute power over creation. Learning to accept our body, to care for it and to respect its fullest meaning, is an essential element of any genuine human ecology. Also, valuing one’s own body in its femininity or masculinity is necessary if I am going to be able to recognize myself in an encounter with someone who is different. In this way we can joyfully accept the specific gifts of another man or woman, the work of God the Creator, and find mutual enrichment. It is not a healthy attitude which would seek “to cancel out sexual difference because it no longer knows how to confront it”.
To read the Pope's entire encyclical letter above, CLICK HERE.
Also read Vatican Says Gay Agenda is 'a Defeat for Humanity'
And read Pope Said the Gay Agenda is the Work of the Devil
For background, click headlines below to read previous articles:
Pope Decries Abortion, Again; Media Ignore Him
Vatican Says Media Distort Pope's Words
Media Filter Pope's Procreation Declarations
Pope Cracks Down on American Liberal Nuns, Priests
Pope Blasts Liberal 'christians' as Pagans
-- From "Pope Francis: Climate Change and Abortion Are ‘Interrelated’" by Clare Foran and Jason Plautz, National Journal 6/18/15
The highly anticipated document says that global warming is real, is caused partly by human activity, and is a grave threat to humanity. . . .
For Pope Francis, caring about the environment goes hand in hand with taking a strong stand against abortion. . . .
Francis suggests that efforts to slow population growth are misguided and a distraction . . .
The encyclical says that governments need to think as "one world with a common plan" . . .
One solution that Francis swiftly dismisses is a deal that would use carbon credits in a cap-and-trade scenario.
Francis takes on pesticides in a section of the encyclical focused on "pollution, waste, and the throwaway culture." After noting that daily exposure to pollutants can create serious and even deadly health risks, the pope says that "fertilizers, insecticides, fungicides, herbicides, and agrotoxins in general" cause pollution that impacts everyone.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Pope Francis links saving the planet to ending abortion" by Rose Troup Buchanan, UK Independent 6/18/15
Pope Francis’s has explicitly linked protecting the environment with protecting the life of an unborn child in his encyclical.
The publication of the Pope’s first solely authored encyclical has been widely celebrated by environmentalists, climate change campaigners and other religious leaders.
However, the text confirms the Pope’s views on abortion and the sanctity of life in line with traditional Roman Catholic teaching.
His comments were welcomed by conservative elements in the Catholic Church – no doubt concerned by his liberal leanings towards the poor, as well as the LGBT community – but dismayed pro-abortion campaigners.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Pro-Lifers: Pope Rejects Population Control, Abortion As Solutions To Global Warming" by Michael Bastasch, Daily Caller 6/17/15
“Importantly, he suggests that to look to population control for a solution to environmental problems is not facing the real problem of waste and overconsumption,” John-Henry Westen, pro-life advocate and co-founder of the news site LifeSiteNews.com, told The Daily Caller News Foundation.
“In keeping with the pro-life traditions of the Church, the pope also condemned the ‘throw-away culture,’ and specifically said that we may not justify abortion with an appeal to protecting nature,” Westen told TheDCNF.
“He also criticized those who would turn nature into a god, and he criticized many animal rights activists who are, hypocritically, unwilling to save human beings,” Westen added.
One concern among pro-life advocates was that two of the pope’s environmental advisers have advocated for population control methods such as abortion, contraception and sterilization. Pro-lifers are referring to economist Jeffrey Sachs and climatologist Hans Joachim Schellnhuber.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Pope Francis Slams Abortion and Population Control in New Environmental Encyclical" by Steven Ertelt, LifeNews.com 6/18/15
“When we fail to acknowledge as part of reality the worth of a poor person, a human embryo, a person with disabilities – to offer just a few examples – it becomes difficult to hear the cry of nature itself; everything is connected,” Pope Francis writes. “Christian thought sees human beings as possessing a particular dignity above other creatures; it thus inculcates esteem for each person and respect for others.”
The leader of the Catholic Church continues: “Since everything is interrelated, concern for the protection of nature is also incompatible with the justification of abortion. How can we genuinely teach the importance of concern for other vulnerable beings, however troublesome or inconvenient they may be, if we fail to protect a human embryo, even when its presence is uncomfortable and creates difficulties?”
“If personal and social sensitivity towards the acceptance of the new life is lost, then other forms of acceptance that are valuable for society also wither away,” he adds.
“This false model of man and society embodies a practical atheism, de facto negating the Word of God that says: ‘Let us make man in our image, according to our likeness,’” he explained.
The Pope said “there is an originary dignity of every man and woman that cannot be suppressed, that cannot be touched by any power or ideology.”
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "For Pope Francis, ‘green’ equals pro-life" by Thomas D. Williams, research fellow at the Center for Ethics and Culture at the University of Notre Dame, posted at Crux 6/18/15
This Pope had already revealed on multiple occasions his understanding that abortion is a “scourge” and that “a just society recognizes the primacy of the right to life from conception to natural death.” Using his characteristically colorful language, Francis has compared abortion activists with the Italian Mafia, drawn a parallel between abortion and Herod’s slaughter of the innocents, and wondered aloud how “modern” societies can get up in arms over parents spanking their children when they have laws “allowing them to kill their children before they are born.”
Now in his second encyclical, Laudato Si’, the Pope has integrated the care and protection of the unborn with responsible stewardship of creation. In rather blunt language, Francis has stated that concern for the protection of nature is simply “incompatible with the justification of abortion.”
This explicit disassociation of ecological engagement from the taking of unborn life will no doubt encourage those who had been worried that Francis’ environmentalism was dangerously close to being coopted by international programs advocating abortion as an essential means of population control.
. . . For the pope, this interconnectedness means that a person who cares for the protection of an endangered species or worries about the melting of the polar ice cap must also care for the unborn. “When we fail to acknowledge as part of reality the worth of a poor person, a human embryo, a person with disabilities — to offer just a few examples — it becomes difficult to hear the cry of nature itself; everything is connected,” he said.
To read the entire opinion column above, CLICK HERE.
Also read Catholic Bishops Warn Voting for Democrats is 'Grave Sin' for example, Rep. Nancy Pelosi is a Fraud, Catholic Leaders Say
And read Pope Francis I Says Wayward Politicians Can't Take Communion
From "Pope’s encyclical: Pro-climate-change, but anti-population control, pro-life, and anti-gender ideology" by John-Henry Westen, LifeSiteNews 6/18/15
The environmental tome of 180 pages – the longest encyclical in history – is an often-fascinating read, with many touching passages reflecting on a Catholic vision of care and concern for creation. These many passages, however, are being largely lost and subsumed under the most emphatic – even alarmist – passages devoted to detailed descriptions of "climate change" theory (described as fact) and the dire consequences of failing to take drastic measures to fight such change.
And those startling quotes have stolen the media narrative, making this, at least for the media world and thus the general public, the "climate-change encyclical." Released, as the encyclical was, just prior to the pope’s visit to the United Nations and the US Congress in September, as well as the World Climate Summit in Paris in December, this narrative was at least partially intentional on the part of the Vatican and the pope.
. . . The new encyclical also continues the tradition launched by popes Benedict and John Paul II of tying respecting nature to respecting life in the womb and God-given gender. The pope also clearly decries the idea of reducing population to address environmental concerns.
Out of the 245 paragraphs, the pope devotes two to debunking population control as an appropriate means to fighting climate change or general environmental degradation.
. . . This is the fourth time Pope Francis has condemned gender ideology [in his paragraph #155]. He does so this time in the language of respecting nature; in January, he did so by blasting the forcing of gender ideology onto students as a form of "ideological colonization" comparable to Hitler Youth indoctrination.
To read the entire opinion column above, CLICK HERE.
Excerpts from "Full text: The encyclical letter of the Holy Father Francis - Laudato Si': On Care for Our Common Home" posted at Catholic Herald 6/18/15
iii. The Crisis and Effects of Modern Anthropocentrism
115. Modern anthropocentrism has paradoxically ended up prizing technical thought over reality, since “the technological mind sees nature as an insensate order, as a cold body of facts, as a mere ‘given’, as an object of utility, as raw material to be hammered into useful shape; it views the cosmos similarly as a mere ‘space’ into which objects can be thrown with complete indifference” The intrinsic dignity of the world is thus compromised. When human beings fail to find their true place in this world, they misunderstand themselves and end up acting against themselves: “Not only has God given the earth to man, who must use it with respect for the original good purpose for which it was given, but, man too is God’s gift to man. He must therefore respect the natural and moral structure with which he has been endowed”.
116. Modernity has been marked by an excessive anthropocentrism which today, under another guise, continues to stand in the way of shared understanding and of any effort to strengthen social bonds. The time has come to pay renewed attention to reality and the limits it imposes; this in turn is the condition for a more sound and fruitful development of individuals and society. An inadequate presentation of Christian anthropology gave rise to a wrong understanding of the relationship between human beings and the world. Often, what was handed on was a Promethean vision of mastery over the world, which gave the impression that the protection of nature was something that only the faint-hearted cared about. Instead, our “dominion” over the universe should be understood more properly in the sense of responsible stewardship.
117. Neglecting to monitor the harm done to nature and the environmental impact of our decisions is only the most striking sign of a disregard for the message contained in the structures of nature itself. When we fail to acknowledge as part of reality the worth of a poor person, a human embryo, a person with disabilities – to offer just a few examples – it becomes difficult to hear the cry of nature itself; everything is connected. Once the human being declares independence from reality and behaves with absolute dominion, the very foundations of our life begin to crumble, for “instead of carrying out his role as a cooperator with God in the work of creation, man sets himself up in place of God and thus ends up provoking a rebellion on the part of nature”.
118. This situation has led to a constant schizophrenia, wherein a technocracy which sees no intrinsic value in lesser beings coexists with the other extreme, which sees no special value in human beings. But one cannot prescind from humanity. There can be no renewal of our relationship with nature without a renewal of humanity itself. There can be no ecology without an adequate anthropology. When the human person is considered as simply one being among others, the product of chance or physical determinism, then “our overall sense of responsibility wanes”. A misguided anthropocentrism need not necessarily yield to “biocentrism”, for that would entail adding yet another imbalance, failing to solve present problems and adding new ones. Human beings cannot be expected to feel responsibility for the world unless, at the same time, their unique capacities of knowledge, will, freedom and responsibility are recognized and valued.
119. Nor must the critique of a misguided anthropocentrism underestimate the importance of interpersonal relations. If the present ecological crisis is one small sign of the ethical, cultural and spiritual crisis of modernity, we cannot presume to heal our relationship with nature and the environment without healing all fundamental human relationships. Christian thought sees human beings as possessing a particular dignity above other creatures; it thus inculcates esteem for each person and respect for others. Our openness to others, each of whom is a “thou” capable of knowing, loving and entering into dialogue, remains the source of our nobility as human persons. A correct relationship with the created world demands that we not weaken this social dimension of openness to others, much less the transcendent dimension of our openness to the “Thou” of God. Our relationship with the environment can never be isolated from our relationship with others and with God. Otherwise, it would be nothing more than romantic individualism dressed up in ecological garb, locking us into a stifling immanence.
120. Since everything is interrelated, concern for the protection of nature is also incompatible with the justification of abortion. How can we genuinely teach the importance of concern for other vulnerable beings, however troublesome or inconvenient they may be, if we fail to protect a human embryo, even when its presence is uncomfortable and creates difficulties? “If personal and social sensitivity towards the acceptance of the new life is lost, then other forms of acceptance that are valuable for society also wither away”.
121. We need to develop a new synthesis capable of overcoming the false arguments of recent centuries. Christianity, in fidelity to its own identity and the rich deposit of truth which it has received from Jesus Christ, continues to reflect on these issues in fruitful dialogue with changing historical situations. In doing so, it reveals its eternal newness.
Practical relativism
122. A misguided anthropocentrism leads to a misguided lifestyle. In the Apostolic Exhortation Evangelii Gaudium, I noted that the practical relativism typical of our age is “even more dangerous than doctrinal relativism”. When human beings place themselves at the centre, they give absolute priority to immediate convenience and all else becomes relative. Hence we should not be surprised to find, in conjunction with the omnipresent technocratic paradigm and the cult of unlimited human power, the rise of a relativism which sees everything as irrelevant unless it serves one’s own immediate interests. There is a logic in all this whereby different attitudes can feed on one another, leading to environmental degradation and social decay.
123. The culture of relativism is the same disorder which drives one person to take advantage of another, to treat others as mere objects, imposing forced labour on them or enslaving them to pay their debts. The same kind of thinking leads to the sexual exploitation of children and abandonment of the elderly who no longer serve our interests. It is also the mindset of those who say: Let us allow the invisible forces of the market to regulate the economy, and consider their impact on society and nature as collateral damage. In the absence of objective truths or sound principles other than the satisfaction of our own desires and immediate needs, what limits can be placed on human trafficking, organized crime, the drug trade, commerce in blood diamonds and the fur of endangered species? Is it not the same relativistic logic which justifies buying the organs of the poor for resale or use in experimentation, or eliminating children because they are not what their parents wanted? This same “use and throw away” logic generates so much waste, because of the disordered desire to consume more than what is really necessary. We should not think that political efforts or the force of law will be sufficient to prevent actions which affect the environment because, when the culture itself is corrupt and objective truth and universally valid principles are no longer upheld, then laws can only be seen as arbitrary impositions or obstacles to be avoided.
. . .
136. . . . it is troubling that, when some ecological movements defend the integrity of the environment, rightly demanding that certain limits be imposed on scientific research, they sometimes fail to apply those same principles to human life. There is a tendency to justify transgressing all boundaries when experimentation is carried out on living human embryos. We forget that the inalienable worth of a human being transcends his or her degree of development. In the same way, when technology disregards the great ethical principles, it ends up considering any practice whatsoever as licit. As we have seen in this chapter, a technology severed from ethics will not easily be able to limit its own power.
. . .
155. Human ecology also implies another profound reality: the relationship between human life and the moral law, which is inscribed in our nature and is necessary for the creation of a more dignified environment. Pope Benedict XVI spoke of an “ecology of man”, based on the fact that “man too has a nature that he must respect and that he cannot manipulate at will”. It is enough to recognize that our body itself establishes us in a direct relationship with the environment and with other living beings. The acceptance of our bodies as God’s gift is vital for welcoming and accepting the entire world as a gift from the Father and our common home, whereas thinking that we enjoy absolute power over our own bodies turns, often subtly, into thinking that we enjoy absolute power over creation. Learning to accept our body, to care for it and to respect its fullest meaning, is an essential element of any genuine human ecology. Also, valuing one’s own body in its femininity or masculinity is necessary if I am going to be able to recognize myself in an encounter with someone who is different. In this way we can joyfully accept the specific gifts of another man or woman, the work of God the Creator, and find mutual enrichment. It is not a healthy attitude which would seek “to cancel out sexual difference because it no longer knows how to confront it”.
To read the Pope's entire encyclical letter above, CLICK HERE.
Also read Vatican Says Gay Agenda is 'a Defeat for Humanity'
And read Pope Said the Gay Agenda is the Work of the Devil
Tuesday, May 12, 2015
Bishop 'Too Catholic' to Speak at Catholic College
Via petition, over 600 students, plus faculty, have called on Le Moyne College administration to dis-invite Cardinal Timothy Dolan, the leader of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York, from speaking at this month's commencement ceremony citing the bishop's "homophobia" and his Catholic beliefs.
Wisconsin Catholic College Welcomes Abortion Feminist Speaker
New Jersey Catholic Religion Teacher Suspended for being Too Biblical
Students Demand Catholic School Hire Gay Teacher
Nun Blasted by North Carolina Parents for Teaching Catholicism
California Parents Say: Drop Morals for Catholic School Teachers
Gays, Teachers Unions March Against Cincinnati Catholic School Morals
Notre Dame Rejects Students for Natural Marriage
Also read Pope Francis Blasts Liberal 'christians' as Pagans
-- From "600+ Le Moyne students sign petition to remove Cardinal Dolan as commencement speaker" posted at WSYR-TV9 (Syracuse, NY) 5/11/15
To put that in perspective, 3,500 students are enrolled at Le Moyne, so more than 20-percent of the student body is calling on the school to change the commencement speaker
The school is aware of students' concerns, but the Le Moyne president says Cardinal Dolan will be speaking at graduation.
"There's absolutely no chance that we would change our speaker moving forward. We're proud to host Cardinal Dolan and we're looking forward to hearing his message," says Dr. Linda LeMura, President of Le Moyne College. "My message to our students and faculty who have expressed concern is to give the Cardinal a chance. Listen to his message of hope and love and I think he will pleasantly surprise our audience."
Students say they will be holding a peaceful protest on graduation day.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Students Say Bishop Too Catholic To Speak At Catholic School" by Blake Neff, Contributor, Daily Caller 5/11/15
The petition also equates opposition to Dolan with other recent protest actions on campus.
“We have walked the halls of Le Moyne for the Black Lives that Matter, we have held vigils for the Muslim students gunned down in Chapel Hill and much more,” [the petition] says. “We have always come together in hard times. Do not stop now. Stand strong, sign and keep it going.”
The petition doesn’t include any specific examples of wrongdoing by Dolan, though it does include a link to a 2013 article about sex abuse victims in the Milwaukee archdiocese calling for more open records. Dolan was Milwaukee’s archbishop from 2002 to 2009, but his involvement in the sex abuse scandal was limited to handling the uproar and aftermath rather than any alleged complicity in actual abuse.
As for the allegations of homophobia, Dolan’s position that homosexual acts are sinful and gay marriage unacceptable are in line with official Catholic doctrine.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Le Moyne students, faculty ask college to remove Cardinal Dolan as commencement speaker" by Marnie Eisenstadt, Syracuse Post-Standard 4/28/15
"Overall, I do not think Cardinal Dolan represents the tenets we value at Le Moyne College," said Katherine M. Bakhuizen, a senior and president of CARE, a group promoting the acceptance of gay and lesbian students on campus. "With sexual assault becoming endemic on college campuses and marriage equality with LGBTQ+ acceptance on the forefront of history, we cannot welcome someone who does not align with our values as a Jesuit institution."
[Joe Della Posta, a college spokesman,] said the college recognizes that not everyone will be happy with the selection of Dolan.
"In selecting a commencement speaker, we consider a number of criteria, including prominence in their field, the ability to deliver a relevant message to our graduates, and the individual's understanding of our role as a Catholic, Jesuit institution," Della Posta said. "Cardinal Dolan is arguably the most influential leader within the U.S. Catholic Church, and we're confident his message will be compelling and impact a wide range of people in the audience."
"Jesus taught love and acceptance, and so does Le Moyne," [senior student Kailey] McDonald said."The Jesuits do not condemn people for the way they love. I have not seen evidence that Cardinal Dolan reflects these teachings, and I hope Le Moyne recognizes that."
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Bishop 'too Catholic' to speak at Catholic school" posted at World Net Daily 5/11/15
David McCallum, director of mission and identity for the college, said he was not disturbed by the student protest.
“I think it’s something you hope for in a college setting. You know, that young people are thinking critically about issues and that they’re willing to take stands on things that they believe in and even more so in a Catholic Jesuit setting, where we promote the importance of social justice,” McCallum said.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Also read how Catholic schools are being attacked across America by their own parishioners for firing homosexuals.
That's because the Gay Agenda will be Complete when Christians are Muzzled, Say Homosexualists and read Senator Ted Cruz Says the Gay Agenda Ends Christian Liberty
"In reality I see [the petition] as a great call for celebration. Our students are questioning decisions we've made. They want to understand the rationale at a deeper level. They're indicating concern for members of society that are historically marginalized. . . . It's a sign of engagement."For background, click headlines below to read previous articles:
-- Linda LeMura, President, Le Moyne College (Syracuse, NY)
Wisconsin Catholic College Welcomes Abortion Feminist Speaker
New Jersey Catholic Religion Teacher Suspended for being Too Biblical
Students Demand Catholic School Hire Gay Teacher
Nun Blasted by North Carolina Parents for Teaching Catholicism
California Parents Say: Drop Morals for Catholic School Teachers
Gays, Teachers Unions March Against Cincinnati Catholic School Morals
Notre Dame Rejects Students for Natural Marriage
Also read Pope Francis Blasts Liberal 'christians' as Pagans
-- From "600+ Le Moyne students sign petition to remove Cardinal Dolan as commencement speaker" posted at WSYR-TV9 (Syracuse, NY) 5/11/15
To put that in perspective, 3,500 students are enrolled at Le Moyne, so more than 20-percent of the student body is calling on the school to change the commencement speaker
The school is aware of students' concerns, but the Le Moyne president says Cardinal Dolan will be speaking at graduation.
"There's absolutely no chance that we would change our speaker moving forward. We're proud to host Cardinal Dolan and we're looking forward to hearing his message," says Dr. Linda LeMura, President of Le Moyne College. "My message to our students and faculty who have expressed concern is to give the Cardinal a chance. Listen to his message of hope and love and I think he will pleasantly surprise our audience."
Students say they will be holding a peaceful protest on graduation day.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Students Say Bishop Too Catholic To Speak At Catholic School" by Blake Neff, Contributor, Daily Caller 5/11/15
The petition also equates opposition to Dolan with other recent protest actions on campus.
“We have walked the halls of Le Moyne for the Black Lives that Matter, we have held vigils for the Muslim students gunned down in Chapel Hill and much more,” [the petition] says. “We have always come together in hard times. Do not stop now. Stand strong, sign and keep it going.”
The petition doesn’t include any specific examples of wrongdoing by Dolan, though it does include a link to a 2013 article about sex abuse victims in the Milwaukee archdiocese calling for more open records. Dolan was Milwaukee’s archbishop from 2002 to 2009, but his involvement in the sex abuse scandal was limited to handling the uproar and aftermath rather than any alleged complicity in actual abuse.
As for the allegations of homophobia, Dolan’s position that homosexual acts are sinful and gay marriage unacceptable are in line with official Catholic doctrine.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Le Moyne students, faculty ask college to remove Cardinal Dolan as commencement speaker" by Marnie Eisenstadt, Syracuse Post-Standard 4/28/15
"Overall, I do not think Cardinal Dolan represents the tenets we value at Le Moyne College," said Katherine M. Bakhuizen, a senior and president of CARE, a group promoting the acceptance of gay and lesbian students on campus. "With sexual assault becoming endemic on college campuses and marriage equality with LGBTQ+ acceptance on the forefront of history, we cannot welcome someone who does not align with our values as a Jesuit institution."
[Joe Della Posta, a college spokesman,] said the college recognizes that not everyone will be happy with the selection of Dolan.
"In selecting a commencement speaker, we consider a number of criteria, including prominence in their field, the ability to deliver a relevant message to our graduates, and the individual's understanding of our role as a Catholic, Jesuit institution," Della Posta said. "Cardinal Dolan is arguably the most influential leader within the U.S. Catholic Church, and we're confident his message will be compelling and impact a wide range of people in the audience."
"Jesus taught love and acceptance, and so does Le Moyne," [senior student Kailey] McDonald said."The Jesuits do not condemn people for the way they love. I have not seen evidence that Cardinal Dolan reflects these teachings, and I hope Le Moyne recognizes that."
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Bishop 'too Catholic' to speak at Catholic school" posted at World Net Daily 5/11/15
David McCallum, director of mission and identity for the college, said he was not disturbed by the student protest.
“I think it’s something you hope for in a college setting. You know, that young people are thinking critically about issues and that they’re willing to take stands on things that they believe in and even more so in a Catholic Jesuit setting, where we promote the importance of social justice,” McCallum said.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Also read how Catholic schools are being attacked across America by their own parishioners for firing homosexuals.
That's because the Gay Agenda will be Complete when Christians are Muzzled, Say Homosexualists and read Senator Ted Cruz Says the Gay Agenda Ends Christian Liberty
Friday, May 01, 2015
Wisc. Catholic College Welcomes Abortion Feminist
Despite objections by thousands of alumni, students, and even Bishop David Ricken, President Thomas Kunkel at St. Norbert College in De Pere, Wisconsin invited pro-abortion, anti-family activist Gloria Steinem to speak Tuesday night because, as Kunkel said, it's important that students see and hear, in person, those who oppose Church teachings.
Nun Blasted by North Carolina Parents for Teaching Catholicism
California Parents Say: Drop Morals for Catholic School Teachers
Notre Dame Rejects Students for Natural Marriage
Students Demand Catholic School Hire Gay Teacher
Also read Pope Francis Blasts Liberal 'christians' as Pagans and read how Pope Francis condemns abortion and speaks of the selfishness of those who shun procreation.
-- From "Gloria Steinem speaks at St. Norbert College" by Kelly Schlicht, WLUK-TV11 (Green Bay, WI) 4/22/15
Kunkel says regardless of the religious affiliation, a college should present all sides of an argument.
“I respect where people are coming from on this. But we feel that we are a college and part of what we do is you have people from all walks come to campus. It doesn’t mean that you necessarily endorse everything they say or what they stand for,” said Kunkel.
When asked [Tuesay night] how she became a feminist, Steinem recounted covering an abortion hearing as a journalist in the 1960s.
“Why is it illegal, why is it dangerous, who owns women’s bodies,” said Steinem.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Catholic college gives abortion-rights icon higher billing than pro-life speaker" by Kate Hardiman, University of Notre Dame, posted at The College Fix 4/29/15
Steinem, who has stated that her own abortion at 22 was a positive experience and said abortion would be considered a “sacrament” if men got pregnant, was invited by St. Norbert to speak about domestic violence.
TFP Student Action, a project of the American Society for the Defense of Tradition, Family and Property, tried to get St. Norbert to cancel Steinem’s appearance by circulating a petition that drew nearly 28,000 signatures.
“How on earth can a woman like Gloria Steinem who has such a public pro-abortion and anti-Catholic record be invited to give a lecture at a Catholic institute [sic], which ought to be a cornerstone in the defense of innocent life and moral values?” the group said.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Green Bay Catholic bishop opposes Gloria Steinem visit" by Patti Zarling, Green Bay Press-Gazette 1/31/15
"Even though Gloria Steinem has appeared at St. Norbert College before my time as the bishop of this diocese, and acknowledging that she has appeared at other Catholic colleges and universities, I do not approve of the appearance of Gloria Steinem at St. Norbert College," the bishop's statement says. "I have conveyed my strong disapproval to the abbot, the president of the college and the chair of the board."
[Bishop David] Ricken said. "Her whole career and life is a grand affirmation of the pro-abortion movement. These types of approaches are outdated, tired and confusing ways to approach these issues, especially given the fact that the Catholic Church has new approaches to women's issues that are fresh, life-giving and highly respectful of the human person."
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Feminist Steinem Touts Abortion, Ridicules Church at St. Norbert College" by Kimberly Scharfenberger, The Cardinal Newman Society 4/29/15
Abortion advocacy, support for euthanasia and applause for excommunicated and “ordained” women priests—such were the highlights of last week’s “dialogue” with radical feminists Gloria Steinem and Bell Hooks on the Catholic campus of St. Norbert College in De Pere, Wis.
Nevertheless the College went forward, and the activists’ dialogue, titled “Talking Together: A Legacy of Solidarity,” predictably highlighted contempt for “patriarchal religions” and pushed support for abortion rights and euthanasia. A video of their dialogue indicates that Steinem and Hooks barely touched on the subject of domestic violence but focused instead on “reproductive rights” and societal ills caused by the patriarchy.
Thomas Kunkel, president of St. Norbert College, opened the event, welcoming the more than 800 participants who reportedly attended.
“As the face of the women’s movement… Gloria Steinem leaves us in awe,” said Dr. Karlyn Crowley, professor of English, as she introduced Steinem.
Hooks is frequently hosted as a teacher-in-residence at St. Norbert College. Last year, the College even presented the “year of bell hooks” which featured “programs that celebrate bell hooks, the prolific scholar, social justice advocate, feminist and canonical writer.” In her book Feminism is For Everybody, Hooks claimed that “one cannot be anti-abortion and an advocate of feminism.” She also declared that “without the right to safe, inexpensive, and free abortions [women] lose all control over their bodies.”
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "St. Norbert College and the Catholic vision of life" by Bishop David Ricken, The Compass News, Inc. 1/8/15
Several months ago, I received many letters, emails, calls and complaints about St. Norbert College’s invitation to Gloria Steinem to give a presentation on their campus. . . .
. . . I find the invitation of Steinem to be quite mystifying. . . . It would be so refreshing if we heard the leadership and faculty use these new voices to help our young people live a life of integrity and holiness and to truly embrace life and peace for the most innocent of all.
Catholic vision and teaching are truly liberating if they are integrated into the life of a college campus. How refreshing it would be if St. Norbert College were to decide to be a vibrant Catholic College that embraces the church and her teaching in its entirety, not just the social justice teachings (which SNC does so well), but also the doctrinal and moral teaching of the Gospel and the church. Rather than excusing it by finding ways to reason around it or to argue against it, why not embrace it with a real and comprehensive intentionality?
The invitation of Ms. Steinem gives the impression that the college may be merely giving lip service to the fundamental value of every human life instead of embracing the “Gospel of Life” with a clear intentionality.
Long live the “Gospel of Life” and those who defend it unapologetically!
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Also read Abortionists Must Defeat Christianity, Hillary Clinton Says
And read Feminism is Destroying America, Census Report on Childlessness Shows
“. . . the connection of abortion rights to the feminist agenda is a sad one and calls into question the logic” of inviting Steinem.For background, click headlines below to read previous articles:
-- Bishop David Ricken, Diocese of Green Bay
“Why are the same groups against lesbians and birth control? The patriarchal system… controls reproduction and says it’s only moral and okay when sexuality... can end in reproduction. And everything else is wrong. That means sexual expression between two men or two women, it means women’s ability to control it ourselves [is wrong].”
-- Gloria Steinem
Nun Blasted by North Carolina Parents for Teaching Catholicism
California Parents Say: Drop Morals for Catholic School Teachers
Notre Dame Rejects Students for Natural Marriage
Students Demand Catholic School Hire Gay Teacher
Also read Pope Francis Blasts Liberal 'christians' as Pagans and read how Pope Francis condemns abortion and speaks of the selfishness of those who shun procreation.
-- From "Gloria Steinem speaks at St. Norbert College" by Kelly Schlicht, WLUK-TV11 (Green Bay, WI) 4/22/15
Kunkel says regardless of the religious affiliation, a college should present all sides of an argument.
“I respect where people are coming from on this. But we feel that we are a college and part of what we do is you have people from all walks come to campus. It doesn’t mean that you necessarily endorse everything they say or what they stand for,” said Kunkel.
When asked [Tuesay night] how she became a feminist, Steinem recounted covering an abortion hearing as a journalist in the 1960s.
“Why is it illegal, why is it dangerous, who owns women’s bodies,” said Steinem.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Catholic college gives abortion-rights icon higher billing than pro-life speaker" by Kate Hardiman, University of Notre Dame, posted at The College Fix 4/29/15
Steinem, who has stated that her own abortion at 22 was a positive experience and said abortion would be considered a “sacrament” if men got pregnant, was invited by St. Norbert to speak about domestic violence.
TFP Student Action, a project of the American Society for the Defense of Tradition, Family and Property, tried to get St. Norbert to cancel Steinem’s appearance by circulating a petition that drew nearly 28,000 signatures.
“How on earth can a woman like Gloria Steinem who has such a public pro-abortion and anti-Catholic record be invited to give a lecture at a Catholic institute [sic], which ought to be a cornerstone in the defense of innocent life and moral values?” the group said.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Green Bay Catholic bishop opposes Gloria Steinem visit" by Patti Zarling, Green Bay Press-Gazette 1/31/15
"Even though Gloria Steinem has appeared at St. Norbert College before my time as the bishop of this diocese, and acknowledging that she has appeared at other Catholic colleges and universities, I do not approve of the appearance of Gloria Steinem at St. Norbert College," the bishop's statement says. "I have conveyed my strong disapproval to the abbot, the president of the college and the chair of the board."
[Bishop David] Ricken said. "Her whole career and life is a grand affirmation of the pro-abortion movement. These types of approaches are outdated, tired and confusing ways to approach these issues, especially given the fact that the Catholic Church has new approaches to women's issues that are fresh, life-giving and highly respectful of the human person."
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Feminist Steinem Touts Abortion, Ridicules Church at St. Norbert College" by Kimberly Scharfenberger, The Cardinal Newman Society 4/29/15
Abortion advocacy, support for euthanasia and applause for excommunicated and “ordained” women priests—such were the highlights of last week’s “dialogue” with radical feminists Gloria Steinem and Bell Hooks on the Catholic campus of St. Norbert College in De Pere, Wis.
Nevertheless the College went forward, and the activists’ dialogue, titled “Talking Together: A Legacy of Solidarity,” predictably highlighted contempt for “patriarchal religions” and pushed support for abortion rights and euthanasia. A video of their dialogue indicates that Steinem and Hooks barely touched on the subject of domestic violence but focused instead on “reproductive rights” and societal ills caused by the patriarchy.
Thomas Kunkel, president of St. Norbert College, opened the event, welcoming the more than 800 participants who reportedly attended.
“As the face of the women’s movement… Gloria Steinem leaves us in awe,” said Dr. Karlyn Crowley, professor of English, as she introduced Steinem.
Hooks is frequently hosted as a teacher-in-residence at St. Norbert College. Last year, the College even presented the “year of bell hooks” which featured “programs that celebrate bell hooks, the prolific scholar, social justice advocate, feminist and canonical writer.” In her book Feminism is For Everybody, Hooks claimed that “one cannot be anti-abortion and an advocate of feminism.” She also declared that “without the right to safe, inexpensive, and free abortions [women] lose all control over their bodies.”
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "St. Norbert College and the Catholic vision of life" by Bishop David Ricken, The Compass News, Inc. 1/8/15
Several months ago, I received many letters, emails, calls and complaints about St. Norbert College’s invitation to Gloria Steinem to give a presentation on their campus. . . .
. . . I find the invitation of Steinem to be quite mystifying. . . . It would be so refreshing if we heard the leadership and faculty use these new voices to help our young people live a life of integrity and holiness and to truly embrace life and peace for the most innocent of all.
Catholic vision and teaching are truly liberating if they are integrated into the life of a college campus. How refreshing it would be if St. Norbert College were to decide to be a vibrant Catholic College that embraces the church and her teaching in its entirety, not just the social justice teachings (which SNC does so well), but also the doctrinal and moral teaching of the Gospel and the church. Rather than excusing it by finding ways to reason around it or to argue against it, why not embrace it with a real and comprehensive intentionality?
The invitation of Ms. Steinem gives the impression that the college may be merely giving lip service to the fundamental value of every human life instead of embracing the “Gospel of Life” with a clear intentionality.
Long live the “Gospel of Life” and those who defend it unapologetically!
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Also read Abortionists Must Defeat Christianity, Hillary Clinton Says
And read Feminism is Destroying America, Census Report on Childlessness Shows
Friday, January 02, 2015
Newsweek Magazine Attacks Bible & Christians for $
In a desperate attempt to remain relevant after a period of being out of print, Newsweek Magazine's Christmas cover story by Kurt Eichenwald titled "The Bible: So Misunderstood it's a Sin" claims the Bible is corrupted and that Christians, having never actually read it nor understood it, are "God's frauds, cafeteria Christians who pick and choose which Bible verses they heed with less care than they exercise in selecting side orders for lunch."
For background, click headlines below to read previous articles:
Atheists Demand Ban: Bible Says Kill Gays & Non-virgin Women
California School Bans Books by Christian Authors
Marquette University Bans Conservative Professor, Like a Terrorist
Liberal Media Pounce on Evangelical Liberty University
Also read about the latest myriad attacks on Christmas in schools around the nation.
And read about an Iowa newspaper editor who was fired for being Christian, and about a University of Iowa journalism professor who said "ignorant Iowa Jesus Freaks" have no business choosing presidential candidates.
And read New York Farmers Guilty & Fined for Being Christian
In addition, read President Obama's Christmas: Behold, a Message is Born
-- From "Newsweek finds Christianity again with its latest cover" by Tom Kludt, CNNMoney 12/30/14
Newsweek's latest cover story represents the first time in a year the magazine gave top billing to an examination of Christianity.
Critics have contended that Eichenwald was out of his depth. RedState editor-in-chief Erick Erickson, who enrolled in seminary earlier this year, said that Eichenwald "displays staggering ignorance to attack Christianity."
Eichenwald, for his part, told CNNMoney that he had been working on the story "for basically three decades." He said he pitched the idea to Newsweek in October and that personal matters dictated the piece's Christmas publication.
Eichenwald also brushed off the criticism of the piece.
"There is no doubt that fundamentalists would not accept this, particularly since the point was, many of those Christians who say the Bible is the unerring word of God pick and choose what they want to believe," he said. "Which is why the primary part of the piece is asking questions."
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "The Bible: So Misunderstood It's a Sin" by Kurt Eichenwald, Newsweek 12/23/14
They wave their Bibles at passersby, screaming their condemnations of homosexuals. They fall on their knees, worshipping at the base of granite monuments to the Ten Commandments while demanding prayer in school. They appeal to God to save America from their political opponents, mostly Democrats. They gather in football stadiums by the thousands to pray for the country’s salvation.
They are God’s frauds, cafeteria Christians who pick and choose which Bible verses they heed with less care than they exercise in selecting side orders for lunch. They are joined by religious rationalizers—fundamentalists who, unable to find Scripture supporting their biases and beliefs, twist phrases and modify translations to prove they are honoring the Bible’s words.
This is no longer a matter of personal or private faith. With politicians, social leaders and even some clergy invoking a book they seem to have never read and whose phrases they don’t understand, America is being besieged by Biblical illiteracy. . . .
The Bible is not the book many American fundamentalists and political opportunists think it is, or more precisely, what they want it to be. Their lack of knowledge about the Bible is well established. . . .
Newsweek’s exploration here of the Bible’s history and meaning is not intended to advance a particular theology or debate the existence of God. Rather, it is designed to shine a light on a book that has been abused by people who claim to revere it but don’t read it, in the process creating misery for others. . . .
No television preacher has ever read the Bible. Neither has any evangelical politician. Neither has the pope. Neither have I. And neither have you. At best, we’ve all read a bad translation—a translation of translations of translations of hand-copied copies of copies of copies of copies, and on and on, hundreds of times.
. . . [skipping past thousands of critical words about the Bible] . . .
So why study the Bible at all? Since it’s loaded with contradictions and translation errors and wasn’t written by witnesses and includes words added by unknown scribes to inject Church orthodoxy, should it just be abandoned?
No. This examination is not an attack on the Bible or Christianity. Instead, Christians seeking greater understanding of their religion should view it as an attempt to save the Bible from the ignorance, hatred and bias that has been heaped upon it. If Christians truly want to treat the New Testament as the foundation of the religion, they have to know it. Too many of them seem to read John Grisham novels with greater care than they apply to the book they consider to be the most important document in the world.
But the history, complexities and actual words of the Bible can’t be ignored just to line it up with what people want to believe, based simply on what friends and family and ministers tell them. Nowhere in the Gospels or Acts of Epistles or Apocalypses does the New Testament say it is the inerrant word of God. It couldn’t—the people who authored each section had no idea they were composing the Christian Bible, and they were long dead before what they wrote was voted by members of political and theological committees to be the New Testament.
The Bible is a very human book. It was written, assembled, copied and translated by people. That explains the flaws, the contradictions, and the theological disagreements in its pages. . . .
To read all of this extremely long opinion column above, CLICK HERE.
From "Newsweek on the Bible — So Misrepresented It’s a Sin" by Dr. R. Albert Mohler Jr., president of The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary 12/29/14
Newsweek magazine decided to greet the start of 2015 with a massive cover story on the Bible. For decades now, major news magazines have tended to feature cover articles timed for Christmas and Easter, taking an opportunity to consider some major question about Christianity and the modern world. Leading the journalistic pack for years, both TIME and Newsweek dedicated cover article after article, following a rather predictable format. In the main, scholars or leaders from very liberal quarters commented side-by-side those committed to historic Christianity on questions ranging from the virgin birth to the resurrection of Christ.
. . . Eichenwald appears to be far outside his area of expertise and knowledge. More to the point, he really does not address the subject of the Bible like a reporter at all. His article is a hit-piece that lacks any journalistic balance or credibility. His only sources cited within the article are from severe critics of evangelical Christianity, and he does not even represent some of them accurately.
In a predictable move, Eichenwald claims to base his research on “works of scores of theologians and scholars, some of which dates back centuries.” But the sources he cites are from the far, far left of biblical studies and the most significant living source appears to be University of North Carolina professor Bart Ehrman, who is post-Christian. Even so, he makes claims that go far beyond even what Bart Ehrman has claimed in print.
But Kurt Eichenwald’s essay is not ground-breaking in any sense. These arguments have been around for centuries in some form. He mixes serious points of argument with caricatures and cartoons and he does exactly what he accuses Christians of doing — he picks his “facts” and arguments for deliberate effect.
Newsweek’s cover story is exactly what happens when a writer fueled by open antipathy to evangelical Christianity tries to throw every argument he can think of against the Bible and its authority. To put the matter plainly, no honest historian would recognize the portrait of Christian history presented in this essay as accurate and no credible journalist would recognize this screed as balanced.
To read the entire opinion column above, CLICK HERE.
From "Newsweek on Christianity: So Misinformed, It's a Mockery" by Kristi Burton Brown, Christian Post Op-Ed Contributor 12/31/14
The article presents a mocked and misrepresented Jesus, claiming that He would be "horrified" by thousands of Americans gathered together to pray and that, "to Jesus, family was an impediment to reaching God." . . .
The article also makes the outlandish claim that Evangelicals "don't like to talk about" the books of Psalms, Job, Exodus, and Isaiah because "monsters and magic" are present in all of them. . . .
Scripture must indeed be taken in totality…no, a person is not condemned to Hell solely on the basis of a homosexual act, just as a person is not condemned to Hell solely for adultery or solely for a lie. (Christians do commit these acts.) But Scripture is clear that our sin does condemn us to Hell, unless we rely on Christ alone for salvation. Scripture is also clear that, while we are not saved by our good works, our good works – and choices to stop sinning – prove to the world that we are saved.
Newsweek also strangely attempts to claim that "Christians are believed to have massacred more followers of Jesus than any other group or nation." But who exactly "believes" that? The facts certainly don't prove it. This can be seen on a basic level simply by evaluating who the author is including as "Christians." . . .
To read the entire opinion column above, CLICK HERE.
Also read Gay Agenda will be Complete when Christians are Muzzled, Say Homosexualists as well as Senator Ted Cruz Says the Gay Agenda Ends Christian Liberty
For background, click headlines below to read previous articles:
Atheists Demand Ban: Bible Says Kill Gays & Non-virgin Women
California School Bans Books by Christian Authors
Marquette University Bans Conservative Professor, Like a Terrorist
Liberal Media Pounce on Evangelical Liberty University
Also read about the latest myriad attacks on Christmas in schools around the nation.
And read about an Iowa newspaper editor who was fired for being Christian, and about a University of Iowa journalism professor who said "ignorant Iowa Jesus Freaks" have no business choosing presidential candidates.
And read New York Farmers Guilty & Fined for Being Christian
In addition, read President Obama's Christmas: Behold, a Message is Born
-- From "Newsweek finds Christianity again with its latest cover" by Tom Kludt, CNNMoney 12/30/14
Newsweek's latest cover story represents the first time in a year the magazine gave top billing to an examination of Christianity.
Critics have contended that Eichenwald was out of his depth. RedState editor-in-chief Erick Erickson, who enrolled in seminary earlier this year, said that Eichenwald "displays staggering ignorance to attack Christianity."
Eichenwald, for his part, told CNNMoney that he had been working on the story "for basically three decades." He said he pitched the idea to Newsweek in October and that personal matters dictated the piece's Christmas publication.
Eichenwald also brushed off the criticism of the piece.
"There is no doubt that fundamentalists would not accept this, particularly since the point was, many of those Christians who say the Bible is the unerring word of God pick and choose what they want to believe," he said. "Which is why the primary part of the piece is asking questions."
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "The Bible: So Misunderstood It's a Sin" by Kurt Eichenwald, Newsweek 12/23/14
They wave their Bibles at passersby, screaming their condemnations of homosexuals. They fall on their knees, worshipping at the base of granite monuments to the Ten Commandments while demanding prayer in school. They appeal to God to save America from their political opponents, mostly Democrats. They gather in football stadiums by the thousands to pray for the country’s salvation.
They are God’s frauds, cafeteria Christians who pick and choose which Bible verses they heed with less care than they exercise in selecting side orders for lunch. They are joined by religious rationalizers—fundamentalists who, unable to find Scripture supporting their biases and beliefs, twist phrases and modify translations to prove they are honoring the Bible’s words.
This is no longer a matter of personal or private faith. With politicians, social leaders and even some clergy invoking a book they seem to have never read and whose phrases they don’t understand, America is being besieged by Biblical illiteracy. . . .
The Bible is not the book many American fundamentalists and political opportunists think it is, or more precisely, what they want it to be. Their lack of knowledge about the Bible is well established. . . .
Newsweek’s exploration here of the Bible’s history and meaning is not intended to advance a particular theology or debate the existence of God. Rather, it is designed to shine a light on a book that has been abused by people who claim to revere it but don’t read it, in the process creating misery for others. . . .
No television preacher has ever read the Bible. Neither has any evangelical politician. Neither has the pope. Neither have I. And neither have you. At best, we’ve all read a bad translation—a translation of translations of translations of hand-copied copies of copies of copies of copies, and on and on, hundreds of times.
. . . [skipping past thousands of critical words about the Bible] . . .
So why study the Bible at all? Since it’s loaded with contradictions and translation errors and wasn’t written by witnesses and includes words added by unknown scribes to inject Church orthodoxy, should it just be abandoned?
No. This examination is not an attack on the Bible or Christianity. Instead, Christians seeking greater understanding of their religion should view it as an attempt to save the Bible from the ignorance, hatred and bias that has been heaped upon it. If Christians truly want to treat the New Testament as the foundation of the religion, they have to know it. Too many of them seem to read John Grisham novels with greater care than they apply to the book they consider to be the most important document in the world.
But the history, complexities and actual words of the Bible can’t be ignored just to line it up with what people want to believe, based simply on what friends and family and ministers tell them. Nowhere in the Gospels or Acts of Epistles or Apocalypses does the New Testament say it is the inerrant word of God. It couldn’t—the people who authored each section had no idea they were composing the Christian Bible, and they were long dead before what they wrote was voted by members of political and theological committees to be the New Testament.
The Bible is a very human book. It was written, assembled, copied and translated by people. That explains the flaws, the contradictions, and the theological disagreements in its pages. . . .
To read all of this extremely long opinion column above, CLICK HERE.
From "Newsweek on the Bible — So Misrepresented It’s a Sin" by Dr. R. Albert Mohler Jr., president of The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary 12/29/14
Newsweek magazine decided to greet the start of 2015 with a massive cover story on the Bible. For decades now, major news magazines have tended to feature cover articles timed for Christmas and Easter, taking an opportunity to consider some major question about Christianity and the modern world. Leading the journalistic pack for years, both TIME and Newsweek dedicated cover article after article, following a rather predictable format. In the main, scholars or leaders from very liberal quarters commented side-by-side those committed to historic Christianity on questions ranging from the virgin birth to the resurrection of Christ.
. . . Eichenwald appears to be far outside his area of expertise and knowledge. More to the point, he really does not address the subject of the Bible like a reporter at all. His article is a hit-piece that lacks any journalistic balance or credibility. His only sources cited within the article are from severe critics of evangelical Christianity, and he does not even represent some of them accurately.
In a predictable move, Eichenwald claims to base his research on “works of scores of theologians and scholars, some of which dates back centuries.” But the sources he cites are from the far, far left of biblical studies and the most significant living source appears to be University of North Carolina professor Bart Ehrman, who is post-Christian. Even so, he makes claims that go far beyond even what Bart Ehrman has claimed in print.
But Kurt Eichenwald’s essay is not ground-breaking in any sense. These arguments have been around for centuries in some form. He mixes serious points of argument with caricatures and cartoons and he does exactly what he accuses Christians of doing — he picks his “facts” and arguments for deliberate effect.
Newsweek’s cover story is exactly what happens when a writer fueled by open antipathy to evangelical Christianity tries to throw every argument he can think of against the Bible and its authority. To put the matter plainly, no honest historian would recognize the portrait of Christian history presented in this essay as accurate and no credible journalist would recognize this screed as balanced.
To read the entire opinion column above, CLICK HERE.
From "Newsweek on Christianity: So Misinformed, It's a Mockery" by Kristi Burton Brown, Christian Post Op-Ed Contributor 12/31/14
The article presents a mocked and misrepresented Jesus, claiming that He would be "horrified" by thousands of Americans gathered together to pray and that, "to Jesus, family was an impediment to reaching God." . . .
The article also makes the outlandish claim that Evangelicals "don't like to talk about" the books of Psalms, Job, Exodus, and Isaiah because "monsters and magic" are present in all of them. . . .
Scripture must indeed be taken in totality…no, a person is not condemned to Hell solely on the basis of a homosexual act, just as a person is not condemned to Hell solely for adultery or solely for a lie. (Christians do commit these acts.) But Scripture is clear that our sin does condemn us to Hell, unless we rely on Christ alone for salvation. Scripture is also clear that, while we are not saved by our good works, our good works – and choices to stop sinning – prove to the world that we are saved.
Newsweek also strangely attempts to claim that "Christians are believed to have massacred more followers of Jesus than any other group or nation." But who exactly "believes" that? The facts certainly don't prove it. This can be seen on a basic level simply by evaluating who the author is including as "Christians." . . .
To read the entire opinion column above, CLICK HERE.
Also read Gay Agenda will be Complete when Christians are Muzzled, Say Homosexualists as well as Senator Ted Cruz Says the Gay Agenda Ends Christian Liberty
Saturday, November 08, 2014
Pope Blasts Liberal 'christians' as Pagans
Not surprisingly, the media did NOT report that Pope Francis referred to non-believers who claim to follow a christ of their own creation as "pagan christians" who are "enemies of the Cross of Christ" and who are destined for damnation. No, the mainstream (liberal) media only report the goings-on of their "pet Pope" when they can twist his words into Gay Agenda or feminist propaganda.
For background, read Pope Francis Warns of Satan; Media, Take Heed!
-- From "Pope Francis: 'Pagan' Christians 'in Name Only' are 'Enemies of the Cross'" posted at The Roanoke Times 11/7/14
Not all those who claim to be Christians really are, said Pope Francis Friday morning. Some are Christians "in name only," he said. "They bear the name of Christians but live a life of pagans." In his homily at Mass, the Pope that there have always been two types of Christian, those who truly followed Christ and those who only pretended to.
From "Pope Francis blasts 'pagan' Christians as 'enemies of the cross'" by Ann Schneible, Catholic News Agency 11/7/14
In his daily homily for Mass at the Santa Marta residence, Pope Francis urged the faithful against living as lukewarm pagans who are merely Christian in name, for these are “enemies of the Cross.”
Reflecting on the day's reading from Paul to the Philippians, the Holy Father spoke of two types of Christians: those who advance in their faith, and those who behave as “enemies of the Cross of Christ.”
Pope Francis condemned this latter group as “Christian pagans,” describing them as “worldly, Christian in name,” but living a “pagan life.” They are “pagans with two strokes of Christian paint, in order to appear as Christians.”
The Holy Father then challenged the faithful to ask themselves if they too exhibit the same worldliness and paganism, and whether they are citizens of Heaven or the earth.
Unlike the citizens of Heaven who await the coming of the Savior, Pope Francis said the citizens of earth are destined for damnation.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "'Pagan Christians' go to church, but don't put God first, pope says" by Cindy Wooden, Catholic News Service 11/7/14
Today, the pope said, "there are many of these. And we, too, must be careful not to slip" into being Christians in name only. Being half-hearted Christians, "accustomed to mediocrity" is a danger for all, he said.
In the day's first reading, Philippians 3:17-4:1, St. Paul speaks of true Christians having their "citizenship" in heaven, the pope said, while "pagan Christians" are full citizens of the world.
The way for someone to check their spiritual nationality, he said, is to ask some questions: "Do I like to brag? Do I like money? Do I like pride?"
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Pope at Santa Marta: Enemies of the Cross of Christ" posted at Vatican Radio 11/8/14
"Both groups – he said - were in the [Philippian] Church together, they went to Mass on Sunday, they praised the Lord, they called themselves Christians". So what was the difference? The second group "act like enemies of the Cross of Christ! Christians enemies of the Cross of Christ”.
The Pope said these were "worldly Christians, Christians in name, with two or three Christian things, but nothing more. Pagan Christian". "A Christian name, but a pagan life." Or to put it another way: "Pagans with two strokes of Christian paint, so as to appear like Christians, but pagans nonetheless".
"Even today there are many! We must be careful not to slip toward the path of being pagan Christians, Christians in appearance. The temptation to get used to mediocrity, the mediocrity of Christians, these Christians, it is their undoing because their hearts cool, they become lukewarm. And the Lord had strong words for these lukewarm [Christians]: 'because you are lukewarm, I will spit you out of my mouth'. These are very strong words! They are enemies of the Cross of Christ. They take the name, but do not follow the requirements of Christian life".
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
For background on mainstream media coverage of Pope Francis, note these typical fallacious media headlines:
Pope Open to Homosexual Civil Unions
Pope Francis OKs Gay & Women Priests
But what the pope has actually said and has done, include the following:
Pope Said the Gay Agenda is the Work of the Devil
Pope Disappoints Liberals by Opposing 'Gay Adoption'
Pope's New Spanish Cardinal Says 'Gay Gene' is a Defect
Pope Francis Cracks Down on American Liberal Nuns, Priests
Also read Pope Francis Decries Abortion; Vatican Says Media Distort Him
And notice how the media reacted to a U.S. Supreme Court justice saying that Satan exists.
For background, read Pope Francis Warns of Satan; Media, Take Heed!
-- From "Pope Francis: 'Pagan' Christians 'in Name Only' are 'Enemies of the Cross'" posted at The Roanoke Times 11/7/14
Not all those who claim to be Christians really are, said Pope Francis Friday morning. Some are Christians "in name only," he said. "They bear the name of Christians but live a life of pagans." In his homily at Mass, the Pope that there have always been two types of Christian, those who truly followed Christ and those who only pretended to.
From "Pope Francis blasts 'pagan' Christians as 'enemies of the cross'" by Ann Schneible, Catholic News Agency 11/7/14
In his daily homily for Mass at the Santa Marta residence, Pope Francis urged the faithful against living as lukewarm pagans who are merely Christian in name, for these are “enemies of the Cross.”
Reflecting on the day's reading from Paul to the Philippians, the Holy Father spoke of two types of Christians: those who advance in their faith, and those who behave as “enemies of the Cross of Christ.”
Pope Francis condemned this latter group as “Christian pagans,” describing them as “worldly, Christian in name,” but living a “pagan life.” They are “pagans with two strokes of Christian paint, in order to appear as Christians.”
The Holy Father then challenged the faithful to ask themselves if they too exhibit the same worldliness and paganism, and whether they are citizens of Heaven or the earth.
Unlike the citizens of Heaven who await the coming of the Savior, Pope Francis said the citizens of earth are destined for damnation.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "'Pagan Christians' go to church, but don't put God first, pope says" by Cindy Wooden, Catholic News Service 11/7/14
Today, the pope said, "there are many of these. And we, too, must be careful not to slip" into being Christians in name only. Being half-hearted Christians, "accustomed to mediocrity" is a danger for all, he said.
In the day's first reading, Philippians 3:17-4:1, St. Paul speaks of true Christians having their "citizenship" in heaven, the pope said, while "pagan Christians" are full citizens of the world.
The way for someone to check their spiritual nationality, he said, is to ask some questions: "Do I like to brag? Do I like money? Do I like pride?"
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Pope at Santa Marta: Enemies of the Cross of Christ" posted at Vatican Radio 11/8/14
"Both groups – he said - were in the [Philippian] Church together, they went to Mass on Sunday, they praised the Lord, they called themselves Christians". So what was the difference? The second group "act like enemies of the Cross of Christ! Christians enemies of the Cross of Christ”.
The Pope said these were "worldly Christians, Christians in name, with two or three Christian things, but nothing more. Pagan Christian". "A Christian name, but a pagan life." Or to put it another way: "Pagans with two strokes of Christian paint, so as to appear like Christians, but pagans nonetheless".
"Even today there are many! We must be careful not to slip toward the path of being pagan Christians, Christians in appearance. The temptation to get used to mediocrity, the mediocrity of Christians, these Christians, it is their undoing because their hearts cool, they become lukewarm. And the Lord had strong words for these lukewarm [Christians]: 'because you are lukewarm, I will spit you out of my mouth'. These are very strong words! They are enemies of the Cross of Christ. They take the name, but do not follow the requirements of Christian life".
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
For background on mainstream media coverage of Pope Francis, note these typical fallacious media headlines:
Pope Open to Homosexual Civil Unions
Pope Francis OKs Gay & Women Priests
But what the pope has actually said and has done, include the following:
Pope Said the Gay Agenda is the Work of the Devil
Pope Disappoints Liberals by Opposing 'Gay Adoption'
Pope's New Spanish Cardinal Says 'Gay Gene' is a Defect
Pope Francis Cracks Down on American Liberal Nuns, Priests
Also read Pope Francis Decries Abortion; Vatican Says Media Distort Him
And notice how the media reacted to a U.S. Supreme Court justice saying that Satan exists.
Monday, November 11, 2013
New USA Atheist 'Churches:' Mainline Competition
Whereas evangelical churches have drawn believing Christians from the declining mainline church denominations for decades, the latest worry for the religious left is the loss of agnostics who've been attending mainlines solely for the sense of community. The new draw is a 'church' that includes everything non-believing Americans want, but without, what they consider, the silly God and Bible stuff.
Atheists Crave Church Fellowship, but Absent God
Atheists Find Agreeable Churches Good for Family
Atheist Proposes Godless Religion, Complete with Sermons
Atheists' Nativity Displays Dominate Christmas Scene
In addition, read Liberal 'Churches' Continue to Wither and also read Liberal 'Churches' Conforming to Decadent Culture
UPDATE 2/21/15: Colleges Hire Atheist/Humanist Chaplains for the Nonbelievers
-- From "Sunday Assembly founders launch 'atheist church' in Nashville" by Heidi Hall, The Tennessean 11/6/13
. . . the founders of Sunday Assembly, British comedians Sanderson Jones and Pippa Evans, say they're looking forward to visiting the fledgling group personally Thursday night. In fact, Jones said, he'd even like to learn something about church planting – and there are plenty of experts in Nashville.
. . . It's a philosophy that's worked well for Evans and Jones, who launched the first Sunday Assembly — frequently shorthanded in media to "atheist church" — in London less than a year ago and, within weeks, were drawing a capacity crowd. They now head up 30 congregations around the world, with major U.S. locations in New York, Boston and Washington, D.C.
On Oct. 20, Jones and Evans launched an Indiegogo.com campaign aimed at raising 500,000 British pounds, or about $805,000, to reach even more people. It was up to about $42,500 Wednesday morning.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Atheist 'mega-churches' take root across US, world" by Gillian Flaccus, Associated Press 11/10/13
Nearly three dozen gatherings dubbed "atheist mega-churches" by supporters and detractors have sprung up around the U.S. and Australia — with more to come — after finding success in Great Britain earlier this year. The movement fueled by social media and spearheaded by two prominent British comedians is no joke.
"There was so much about [Christian church] that I loved, but it's a shame because at the heart of it, it's something I don't believe in," Jones said. "If you think about church, there's very little that's bad. It's singing awesome songs, hearing interesting talks, thinking about improving yourself and helping other people — and doing that in a community with wonderful relationships. What part of that is not to like?"
Sunday Assembly — whose motto is Live Better, Help Often, Wonder More — taps into that universe of people who left their faith but now miss the community church provided, said Phil Zuckerman, a professor of secular studies at Pitzer College in Claremont.
During the service [in Hollywood], attendees stomped their feet, clapped their hands and cheered as Jones and Evans led the group through rousing renditions of "Lean on Me," ''Here Comes the Sun" and other hits that took the place of gospel songs.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "London-based 'Atheist Church' Launches New Congregation in Nashville" by Jessica Martinez, Christian Post Reporter 11/8/13
Jones says attendees can expect future Nashville gatherings to be what he referred to as "jam sessions with a purpose" where they will listen to mainstream pop songs being performed by a band. He also says the meetings will be implemented in a "leaderless" format in order to create an inclusive environment for all attendees while they celebrate life. The group also invites people from different faith backgrounds to attend and say their focus is to help people live better lives.
So far, the organization has garnered much support from atheists around the world. In London alone, the monthly services have a regular membership of 600. Within three months after its inception, the congregation began holding two services each Sunday that they met, and by their fifth month, they moved into a larger venue to accommodate their growing church.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "'Atheist Church' Looking to Raise $800,000 to Spread Movement Online" by Stoyan Zaimov, Christian Post Reporter 10/21/13
"If we increase people's social capital by creating real-life communities and supporting networks, then we can increase wealth, without spending loads. It's social capitalism. And we think the best way to create more of these meetings IRL [in real life], is to harness the power of networked computers, so that we can get away from networked computers," Jones added.
The Sunday Assembly officially launched in January 2013, and describes itself as a godless congregation that celebrates life, with a motto to "live better, help often, wonder more," and a mission to "help everyone find and fulfill their full potential."
It has reached 35 different cities in the world, including major locations like London, New York, and Melbourne. Its ambitious goal is to plant 40 atheist churches within a year, and close to 1,000 within a decade.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Also read Mainstream Media Give Voice to Atheists, Heretics, & Apostates
"I think it's a good thing. That we should have diversity. . . . it's what America is based on."For background, click headlines below to read previous articles:
-- Annie Poag, who often attends East Nashville Presbyterian Church with her husband
Atheists Crave Church Fellowship, but Absent God
Atheists Find Agreeable Churches Good for Family
Atheist Proposes Godless Religion, Complete with Sermons
Atheists' Nativity Displays Dominate Christmas Scene
In addition, read Liberal 'Churches' Continue to Wither and also read Liberal 'Churches' Conforming to Decadent Culture
UPDATE 2/21/15: Colleges Hire Atheist/Humanist Chaplains for the Nonbelievers
-- From "Sunday Assembly founders launch 'atheist church' in Nashville" by Heidi Hall, The Tennessean 11/6/13
. . . the founders of Sunday Assembly, British comedians Sanderson Jones and Pippa Evans, say they're looking forward to visiting the fledgling group personally Thursday night. In fact, Jones said, he'd even like to learn something about church planting – and there are plenty of experts in Nashville.
. . . It's a philosophy that's worked well for Evans and Jones, who launched the first Sunday Assembly — frequently shorthanded in media to "atheist church" — in London less than a year ago and, within weeks, were drawing a capacity crowd. They now head up 30 congregations around the world, with major U.S. locations in New York, Boston and Washington, D.C.
On Oct. 20, Jones and Evans launched an Indiegogo.com campaign aimed at raising 500,000 British pounds, or about $805,000, to reach even more people. It was up to about $42,500 Wednesday morning.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Atheist 'mega-churches' take root across US, world" by Gillian Flaccus, Associated Press 11/10/13
Nearly three dozen gatherings dubbed "atheist mega-churches" by supporters and detractors have sprung up around the U.S. and Australia — with more to come — after finding success in Great Britain earlier this year. The movement fueled by social media and spearheaded by two prominent British comedians is no joke.
"There was so much about [Christian church] that I loved, but it's a shame because at the heart of it, it's something I don't believe in," Jones said. "If you think about church, there's very little that's bad. It's singing awesome songs, hearing interesting talks, thinking about improving yourself and helping other people — and doing that in a community with wonderful relationships. What part of that is not to like?"
Sunday Assembly — whose motto is Live Better, Help Often, Wonder More — taps into that universe of people who left their faith but now miss the community church provided, said Phil Zuckerman, a professor of secular studies at Pitzer College in Claremont.
During the service [in Hollywood], attendees stomped their feet, clapped their hands and cheered as Jones and Evans led the group through rousing renditions of "Lean on Me," ''Here Comes the Sun" and other hits that took the place of gospel songs.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "London-based 'Atheist Church' Launches New Congregation in Nashville" by Jessica Martinez, Christian Post Reporter 11/8/13
Jones says attendees can expect future Nashville gatherings to be what he referred to as "jam sessions with a purpose" where they will listen to mainstream pop songs being performed by a band. He also says the meetings will be implemented in a "leaderless" format in order to create an inclusive environment for all attendees while they celebrate life. The group also invites people from different faith backgrounds to attend and say their focus is to help people live better lives.
So far, the organization has garnered much support from atheists around the world. In London alone, the monthly services have a regular membership of 600. Within three months after its inception, the congregation began holding two services each Sunday that they met, and by their fifth month, they moved into a larger venue to accommodate their growing church.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "'Atheist Church' Looking to Raise $800,000 to Spread Movement Online" by Stoyan Zaimov, Christian Post Reporter 10/21/13
"If we increase people's social capital by creating real-life communities and supporting networks, then we can increase wealth, without spending loads. It's social capitalism. And we think the best way to create more of these meetings IRL [in real life], is to harness the power of networked computers, so that we can get away from networked computers," Jones added.
The Sunday Assembly officially launched in January 2013, and describes itself as a godless congregation that celebrates life, with a motto to "live better, help often, wonder more," and a mission to "help everyone find and fulfill their full potential."
It has reached 35 different cities in the world, including major locations like London, New York, and Melbourne. Its ambitious goal is to plant 40 atheist churches within a year, and close to 1,000 within a decade.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Also read Mainstream Media Give Voice to Atheists, Heretics, & Apostates
Friday, March 30, 2012
Jimmy Carter Says Democrats Wrong on Abortion
President Jimmy Carter has decided, over thirty years after holding the highest office of the land, that it would be politically advantageous for the Democrat party to drop its vehement support for abortion, but nonetheless, he says the Roe v. Wade ruling should stand.
For background, read Obama Wants Catholic Vote but Dem Platform Anathema and also read Obama Celebrates Roe v. Wade Anniversary as well as Report: Not Enough Abortions - ObamaCare the Answer
-- From "Jimmy Carter urges Democrats to tone down abortion focus" by Caroline May, The Daily Caller 3/29/12
Appearing on “The Laura Ingraham Show” Thursday to promote his book “NIV Lessons from Life Bible: Personal Reflections with Jimmy Carter,” former President Jimmy Carter addressed the ever-hot topic of abortion — encouraging fellow Democrats to tone down their focus on the issue.
“I never have believed that Jesus Christ would approve of abortions and that was one of the problems I had when I was president having to uphold Roe v. Wade and I did everything I could to minimize the need for abortions,” he said, explaining his attempts to streamline adoption and provide aid to poor women through the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children [WIC].
Carter, who does not believe abortions should be outlawed, told Ingraham that he is calling on Democrats to de-emphasize abortion in the party platform.
“I’ve signed a public letter calling for the Democratic Party at the next convention to espouse my position on abortion which is to minimize the need, requirement for abortion and limit it only to women whose life are in danger or who are pregnant as a result of rape or incest,” he said.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Jimmy Carter: Democrats Should Abandon Pro-Abortion Position" by Steven Ertelt, LifeNews.com 3/29/12
In August 2008, the Democratic Party approved a platform that mirrors President Barack Obama’s pro-abortion views.
“The Democratic Party strongly and unequivocally supports Roe v. Wade and a woman’s right to choose a safe and legal abortion, regardless of ability to pay, and we oppose any and all efforts to weaken or undermine that right,” the platform reads.
The party has removed any language calling for abortions to be “rare,” or even “safe,” preferring to concentrate on keeping them legal.
The final aspect of the language hearkens to Obama’s pledge to Planned Parenthood in a July 2007 speech saying his first action as president would be signing the so-called Freedom of Choice Act. That’s a Congressional bill that would overturn every abortion limit nationwide from a ban on partial-birth abortions to parental notification laws.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Also read Pro-choice Americans Disagree with Abortionists: Poll
“I think if the Democratic Party would adopt that policy that would be acceptable to a lot of people who are now estranged from our party because of the abortion issue.”No surprise: There's ZERO coverage of this story in the mainstream media.
-- President Jimmy Carter 3/29/12
For background, read Obama Wants Catholic Vote but Dem Platform Anathema and also read Obama Celebrates Roe v. Wade Anniversary as well as Report: Not Enough Abortions - ObamaCare the Answer
-- From "Jimmy Carter urges Democrats to tone down abortion focus" by Caroline May, The Daily Caller 3/29/12
Appearing on “The Laura Ingraham Show” Thursday to promote his book “NIV Lessons from Life Bible: Personal Reflections with Jimmy Carter,” former President Jimmy Carter addressed the ever-hot topic of abortion — encouraging fellow Democrats to tone down their focus on the issue.
“I never have believed that Jesus Christ would approve of abortions and that was one of the problems I had when I was president having to uphold Roe v. Wade and I did everything I could to minimize the need for abortions,” he said, explaining his attempts to streamline adoption and provide aid to poor women through the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children [WIC].
Carter, who does not believe abortions should be outlawed, told Ingraham that he is calling on Democrats to de-emphasize abortion in the party platform.
“I’ve signed a public letter calling for the Democratic Party at the next convention to espouse my position on abortion which is to minimize the need, requirement for abortion and limit it only to women whose life are in danger or who are pregnant as a result of rape or incest,” he said.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Jimmy Carter: Democrats Should Abandon Pro-Abortion Position" by Steven Ertelt, LifeNews.com 3/29/12
In August 2008, the Democratic Party approved a platform that mirrors President Barack Obama’s pro-abortion views.
“The Democratic Party strongly and unequivocally supports Roe v. Wade and a woman’s right to choose a safe and legal abortion, regardless of ability to pay, and we oppose any and all efforts to weaken or undermine that right,” the platform reads.
The party has removed any language calling for abortions to be “rare,” or even “safe,” preferring to concentrate on keeping them legal.
The final aspect of the language hearkens to Obama’s pledge to Planned Parenthood in a July 2007 speech saying his first action as president would be signing the so-called Freedom of Choice Act. That’s a Congressional bill that would overturn every abortion limit nationwide from a ban on partial-birth abortions to parental notification laws.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Also read Pro-choice Americans Disagree with Abortionists: Poll
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Atheists Find Agreeable Churches Good for Family
With so many of America's churches separated from Biblical Christianity, it's not surprising that elitist atheist/agnostic scientists join churches with their family to satisfy their need for community and to rear their children with a moral compass.
For background, click headlines below of previous articles:
Atheist Scientists Say They're Spiritual: Study
Atheists Crave Church Fellowship, but Absent God
Methodists Team Up with Atheists for Bible Study
Church is About Friendships, NOT God: Study
-- From "Some atheists attend religious services" posted at UPI 12/4/11
Some U.S. scientists who are atheists and have children are involved in religious institutions for social and personal reasons, researchers say.
Principal investigator Elaine Howard Ecklund of Rice University and colleagues at the University at Buffalo found 17 percent of atheists with children said they attended a religious service more than once in the past year.
In addition, some atheist scientists want their children to know about different religions so their children can make informed decisions about their own religious preferences.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Atheists Who Go to Church: Doing It for the Children" by Lee Dye, ABC News columnist 12/7/11
The study, by sociologists Elaine Howard Ecklund of Rice and Kristen Schultz Lee of the University at Buffalo, found that many atheists want their children exposed to religion so that they can make up their own minds on what to believe. In addition, church may provide a better understanding of morality and ethics, and occasionally attending services may ease the conflict between spouses who disagree over the value of religion to their children, the study contends.
The research, published in the December issue of the Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion, was based on in-depth interviews with 275 scientists at 21 “elite” research universities in the United States. Sixty-one percent of the participants described themselves as either atheists or agnostics, and 17 percent of the non-believers had attended church more than once in the past year.
Still, it may seem a bit odd for some atheists to perceive church as a desired “community” at a time when many leading atheists are calling on their colleagues to come out of the closet and take a public stand against religion. Evolutionary biologist Richard Dawkins, physicist Victor Stenger and others see religion as a source of evil in the world.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Some Atheist Scientists With Children Embrace Religious Traditions" by Elaine Howard Ecklund, Ph.D., sociologist at Rice University 12/7/11
Research I conducted with sociologist Kristen Schultz Lee (University at Buffalo, SUNY) showed just how tightly linked religion and family are in the United States--so much so that even some of society's least religious people find it important to expose their children to different religious choices. Our research challenges the assumption that parents who engage in religious socialization always hold religious beliefs themselves.
The atheist scientists interviewed cited personal and social reasons for introducing and integrating religious traditions and institutions into their children's lives.
Their reasons include:
From "Study: 1 in 5 Atheist Scientists Attend Church With Family" by Michael Gryboski, Christian Post Reporter 12/5/11
Roy Speckhardt, executive director for the American Humanist Association . . . [said] that atheists will attend places of worship that are “very welcoming,” listing Unitarian Universalist churches and secular Jewish temples as examples.
Dr. Billy McCormack of the Christian Coalition saw the study as showing that atheist academics see church as a positive moral environment.
“Atheists understand that people who attend church are more likely to be persons of high moral character and would prefer their children experience this more positive environment,” said McCormack in an interview with CP.
“Academics are dogmatic as a rule. Their usual arrogance, subtle or pronounced, makes them less likely than the general public atheists to allow their children to be exposed to truth with which they strongly disagree,” said McCormack.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Atheists and Agnostics Negotiate Religion and Family" by Elaine Howard Ecklund & Kristen Schultz Lee, Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion, Volume 50, Issue 4, pages 728–743, December 2011
Abstract:
For background, click headlines below of previous articles:
Atheist Scientists Say They're Spiritual: Study
Atheists Crave Church Fellowship, but Absent God
Methodists Team Up with Atheists for Bible Study
Church is About Friendships, NOT God: Study
-- From "Some atheists attend religious services" posted at UPI 12/4/11
Some U.S. scientists who are atheists and have children are involved in religious institutions for social and personal reasons, researchers say.
Principal investigator Elaine Howard Ecklund of Rice University and colleagues at the University at Buffalo found 17 percent of atheists with children said they attended a religious service more than once in the past year.
In addition, some atheist scientists want their children to know about different religions so their children can make informed decisions about their own religious preferences.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Atheists Who Go to Church: Doing It for the Children" by Lee Dye, ABC News columnist 12/7/11
The study, by sociologists Elaine Howard Ecklund of Rice and Kristen Schultz Lee of the University at Buffalo, found that many atheists want their children exposed to religion so that they can make up their own minds on what to believe. In addition, church may provide a better understanding of morality and ethics, and occasionally attending services may ease the conflict between spouses who disagree over the value of religion to their children, the study contends.
The research, published in the December issue of the Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion, was based on in-depth interviews with 275 scientists at 21 “elite” research universities in the United States. Sixty-one percent of the participants described themselves as either atheists or agnostics, and 17 percent of the non-believers had attended church more than once in the past year.
Still, it may seem a bit odd for some atheists to perceive church as a desired “community” at a time when many leading atheists are calling on their colleagues to come out of the closet and take a public stand against religion. Evolutionary biologist Richard Dawkins, physicist Victor Stenger and others see religion as a source of evil in the world.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Some Atheist Scientists With Children Embrace Religious Traditions" by Elaine Howard Ecklund, Ph.D., sociologist at Rice University 12/7/11
Research I conducted with sociologist Kristen Schultz Lee (University at Buffalo, SUNY) showed just how tightly linked religion and family are in the United States--so much so that even some of society's least religious people find it important to expose their children to different religious choices. Our research challenges the assumption that parents who engage in religious socialization always hold religious beliefs themselves.
The atheist scientists interviewed cited personal and social reasons for introducing and integrating religious traditions and institutions into their children's lives.
Their reasons include:
• Scientific identity - Study participants wish to expose their children to all sources of knowledge (including religion) and allow them to make their own, informed choices about a religious identity.To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
• Spousal influence - Study participants are involved in a religious institution because of influence from their spouse or partner.
• Desire for community - Study participants want a sense of community (moral or otherwise), even if they do not personally hold religious beliefs.
From "Study: 1 in 5 Atheist Scientists Attend Church With Family" by Michael Gryboski, Christian Post Reporter 12/5/11
Roy Speckhardt, executive director for the American Humanist Association . . . [said] that atheists will attend places of worship that are “very welcoming,” listing Unitarian Universalist churches and secular Jewish temples as examples.
Dr. Billy McCormack of the Christian Coalition saw the study as showing that atheist academics see church as a positive moral environment.
“Atheists understand that people who attend church are more likely to be persons of high moral character and would prefer their children experience this more positive environment,” said McCormack in an interview with CP.
“Academics are dogmatic as a rule. Their usual arrogance, subtle or pronounced, makes them less likely than the general public atheists to allow their children to be exposed to truth with which they strongly disagree,” said McCormack.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Atheists and Agnostics Negotiate Religion and Family" by Elaine Howard Ecklund & Kristen Schultz Lee, Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion, Volume 50, Issue 4, pages 728–743, December 2011
Abstract:
Through in-depth interviews with scientists at elite academic institutions—those particularly likely to have no firm belief in God—we provide insight into the motives scientists who are not religious have for joining a religious group and the struggle faced by these individuals in reconciling personal beliefs with what they consider the best interests of their families. Narratives stress the use of resources from identities as scientists to provide their children with religious choices consistent with science and in negotiating spousal influence and a desire for community. Findings expand the religious socialization and identities literatures by widening the range of understanding of the strategies parents utilize to interface with religious communities as well as lead to more nuanced public understanding of how atheist and agnostic scientists relate to religious communities.To read the entire study referenced above, CLICK HERE.
Friday, November 25, 2011
Obama's Godless Thanksgiving Adventure (Address)
Just as last Thanksgiving, President Obama issued a holiday proclamation that predominantly thanked Native Americans for the birth of the nation, with just an honorable mention of God. This year, his weekend address dropped any reference to God entirely.
-- From "Obama criticized on Twitter for Thanksgiving remarks omitting God" by Amy Hubbard, Washington Post 11/24/11
President Obama devoted his weekly radio address to thanking U.S. service members and volunteers at shelters and soup kitchens. But it's whom he didn't thank that caused a stir on Twitter: God.
According to the White House, Obama personally called 10 service members in Iraq and Afghanistan on Thursday to say happy Thanksgiving. On Wednesday, the president, the first lady and their daughters, Malia and Sasha, did their bit of volunteering, stopping by Washington's Capital Area Foodbank to help fill care packages.
"To give thanks for luck is to deny God much less omit!" tweeted "PastorJeffBrown," whose Twitter account lists him as a rural Oklahoma husband, father and Baptist pastor.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Obama Leaves God out of Thanksgiving Speech, Riles Critics" by Joel Siegel, ABC News 11/25/11
"His remarks were void of any religious references, although Thanksgiving is a holiday traditionally steeped in giving thanks and praise to God," [Fox News' Todd] Starnes wrote.
"The president said his family was 'reflecting on how truly lucky we truly are,'" Starnes said. "For many Americans, though, Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on how blessed and thankful they are."
Obama mentioned God once in a closing "God bless you," to Americans watching the Internet address.
Three of the Republican presidential candidates – Mitt Romney, Newt Gingrich and Rick Santorum – issued Thanksgiving statements that omitted any references to God. Michele Bachmann, Herman Cain and Rick Perry mentioned God in their statements.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
President Abraham Lincoln's 1863 Thanksgiving Day proclamation:
Also read, Obama Declares He's Christian, Again
"Somebody ought to remind Obama (and his speechwriter) that when Americans sit down around a meal today and give thanks, they give thanks to God."For background, read Creator Systematically Deleted from American History by Obama and Others
-- Sherman Frederick, Las Vegas Review-Journal
-- From "Obama criticized on Twitter for Thanksgiving remarks omitting God" by Amy Hubbard, Washington Post 11/24/11
President Obama devoted his weekly radio address to thanking U.S. service members and volunteers at shelters and soup kitchens. But it's whom he didn't thank that caused a stir on Twitter: God.
According to the White House, Obama personally called 10 service members in Iraq and Afghanistan on Thursday to say happy Thanksgiving. On Wednesday, the president, the first lady and their daughters, Malia and Sasha, did their bit of volunteering, stopping by Washington's Capital Area Foodbank to help fill care packages.
"To give thanks for luck is to deny God much less omit!" tweeted "PastorJeffBrown," whose Twitter account lists him as a rural Oklahoma husband, father and Baptist pastor.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Obama Leaves God out of Thanksgiving Speech, Riles Critics" by Joel Siegel, ABC News 11/25/11
"His remarks were void of any religious references, although Thanksgiving is a holiday traditionally steeped in giving thanks and praise to God," [Fox News' Todd] Starnes wrote.
"The president said his family was 'reflecting on how truly lucky we truly are,'" Starnes said. "For many Americans, though, Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on how blessed and thankful they are."
Obama mentioned God once in a closing "God bless you," to Americans watching the Internet address.
Three of the Republican presidential candidates – Mitt Romney, Newt Gingrich and Rick Santorum – issued Thanksgiving statements that omitted any references to God. Michele Bachmann, Herman Cain and Rick Perry mentioned God in their statements.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
President Abraham Lincoln's 1863 Thanksgiving Day proclamation:
“I do therefore invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next, as a day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens. And I recommend to them that while offering up the ascriptions justly due to Him for such singular deliverances and blessings, they do also, with humble penitence for our national perverseness and disobedience, commend to his tender care all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife in which we are unavoidably engaged, and fervently implore the interposition of the Almighty Hand to heal the wounds of the nation and to restore it as soon as may be consistent with the Divine purposes to the full enjoyment of peace, harmony, tranquility and Union.”
Also read, Obama Declares He's Christian, Again
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