Looking Ahead to 2016: The Estuary Where Politics & Religion Meet | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Politicians, like bishops, get staff driven memos. They have people who do their deep reading for them. As for the Democrats, no one will repeal Roe v. Wade legislatively - although they might move up the stage of gestation where the fetus is considered a legal entity with its own rights - of course, the GOP won't go with that - it gets more bang from the buck by lying about such issues as FOCA, which absolutely no one on the pro-choice side mentioned when Obama was elected. Indeed, he had made noise about compromising on late term abortion in his second debate with McCain. Its the GOP that short-circuited any discussions.
The GOP and the Democrats could agree on privatizing some social services, including the Child Tax Credit (in fact, they just did - but the NRLC would never up any Democratic member's pro-life score for doing so), but the Democrats would insist that more, not less, be spent as a result. As far as immigration, that is simply racist, like Nixon's law and order platform back in 1968.
Libertarianism as a right to be left alone, by the way, is perfectly valid if doing so is better than the competing system of criminalizing conduct based on a moral position, resulting in police state features in society. Indeed, we are seeing that now in states with Trap Laws regulating abortion clinics out of existence. The specter of the coat-hanger abortion is back, with richer women simply traveling elsewhere for the procedure. Oddly, taxation, which actually takes money from people, is more amenable to voluntary compliance than prohibitions on abortion, alcohol, drugs or even smoking.
For the Church to effectively engage, it must understand issues from all angles. That is easy on the environment, not so much on abortion or marriage equality where their position is set. Its not about tone, its about knowing the reality of the situation from all sides, including conceding those areas where constitutional authority requires some actions and prevents others. As a side note, a Church that won't discuss female organization is wholly unqualified to speak with authority on abortion. If you can't see why I say that, perhaps you should take a pass on both debate. Abortion, by the way, is a non-issue because there are no active proposals on the ground except trying to end federal supremacy in equal protection matters - a strategy no Catholic should ever endorse. Related matters, like the Partial Birth Abortion Act, which was a Trojan Horse rather than legislation solving an actual problem - its purpose being to rehear Roe (which the Court did not do) - are not progress - they are a way to keep socially conservative voters in line without having a chance of actually doing anything that might help them - like raising the minimum wage. Low information voters actually hurt their own interests by continuing to vote for life issues and not tax issues. The Church getting involved with labor is a good thing. Sadly, the GOP will focus on abortion to stop any real progress, hurting real people's lives.
I doubt the bishops will call for calm on the GOP side. Leaders in a party generally try to stay neutral and the pro-life establishment of the GOP, including the bishops, is no exception. On contraception, shuttering ministries when the Supreme Court finds that the government can make reasonable distinctions when administering employment law, is like Arthur Miller's play "The Crucible" which was as much about anti-communist loyalty oaths as the Salem witch trials.
The divisions among the bishops on certain issues is a dead give away on their politics. Hopefully the new Nuncio will take notice and put a stop to the cozy relationship between some bishops in the pro-life movement and the GOP. I would suspect they all do OK on immigration, but after Trump I won't expect them all to behave - and that is sad. Coalition politics should not "trump" preaching the Gospel. Hopefully this Pope will moderate that tendency,
Wednesday, December 30, 2015
Tuesday, December 29, 2015
Links for 12/29/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 12/29/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: My problem with Clinton is not his sexual morality, its his economic morality. Welfare reform was punitive, NAFTA threw American workers under the bus and everything since then on trade has made it worse. Glass Steigal should not have been repealed nor should capital gains taxes been lowered. His only contribution seems to be higher marginal tax rates for the wealthy. If most of that agenda finds its way into his wife's administration, than I hope he gets caught again so Hillary bans him from the White House.
Gerson is wrong. NCLB was a disaster which had teachers teaching to the test, which made students afraid of the test and in some grades had them repeat a year (like my daughter) if the test was part of the final grade - of course my daughter went from an inner city immigrant school to a suburban second generation asian immigrant school - so she had no chance, but now she is bored, but learning. Professional teachers can motivate students without the big test. What is needed is more remedial help for the parents - paid remedial help - and not just for parents who are dislocated workers and at a pay rate that makes parents want to increase their literacy so that they can help their kids.
Gerson is wrong. NCLB was a disaster which had teachers teaching to the test, which made students afraid of the test and in some grades had them repeat a year (like my daughter) if the test was part of the final grade - of course my daughter went from an inner city immigrant school to a suburban second generation asian immigrant school - so she had no chance, but now she is bored, but learning. Professional teachers can motivate students without the big test. What is needed is more remedial help for the parents - paid remedial help - and not just for parents who are dislocated workers and at a pay rate that makes parents want to increase their literacy so that they can help their kids.
Looking Ahead to 2016: The Church | National Catholic Reporter
Looking Ahead to 2016: The Church | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: I would hope that instead of a Curial reorganization, the Pope reorganize the actual Church to make it more like the Orthodox, who I believe we are no longer in schism with. At the very least name linguistic patriarchs and let them organize their own Curias, allowing a drastic cutback in responsibility and bodies in Rome. That will also change the need for Cardinals, instead allowing Archbishops the role of voting for each individual patriarch (or eventually, matriarch). That should also change how bishops are appointed, with real consideration given to restoring the ancient model of election by either people or at least by clergy. While the story of the Villa is fascinating and merits a book and revenge of Cardianal Pio is a fascinating possiblity, restoration of localism where it can be practiced would be even better.
I would encourage ending world youth day. It is almost idolotry, much in the way the Host is treated like an idol in devising rules for who gets Communion. The Lord does not accidentally visit the soul of someone who cannot be helped just because they join the Communion line. Of course, I can see why Latin youth love this pope, since they identify with him (though in reality, he is ethnically Italian). He can probably do more to evangelize them than the USCCB can with all its might. Maybe Francis should name a youth ambassador to young latinos in the US and bypass the bishops.
If the USCCB had to report to their own people in the pews, many might return to the Church just to vote out some of the rascals. It would certainly change the nature of the organization, including how it relates to the Patriarch who is spiritual father but not the administrative authority. No one in the conference would try to be more Catholic than the patriarch. Barring that, the USCCB should clean house at the staff level the way that Francis is cleaning the Curia. Any of them who conflate their loyalty to the Church with their relationship with Republican front groups on abortion need to retire, resign or be fired. I am sure there those who know where the bodies are buried. Just look at old resumes.
It is true that he who pays the piper calls the tune at universities. Of course, the other options are to form more direct relationships with employers and actually higher upper-classmen as employees of these firms -who would then pay the tuition and provide some grant support. This probably too socialistic for many people, but the other alternative is democratically socialistic - more governmental support for Catholic colleges and universities - and that support is substantial now if you include student based aid and contracts. If the bishops or orders who are the titular owners want to maintain control, they must provide funding to meet the greater needs schools face, including the moral obligation to open more tenure track positions and thereby confining use of adjuncts to distinguished leaders like Bernie Rosen, who was at American when I was there (American is a sectarian school). Of course, governmental support and employer support come with a cost - not in compromising doctrine (no one wants to change the Nicean Creed), but in how the Church treats those it would otherwise marginallize (which is really not what Jesus would do).
I would encourage ending world youth day. It is almost idolotry, much in the way the Host is treated like an idol in devising rules for who gets Communion. The Lord does not accidentally visit the soul of someone who cannot be helped just because they join the Communion line. Of course, I can see why Latin youth love this pope, since they identify with him (though in reality, he is ethnically Italian). He can probably do more to evangelize them than the USCCB can with all its might. Maybe Francis should name a youth ambassador to young latinos in the US and bypass the bishops.
If the USCCB had to report to their own people in the pews, many might return to the Church just to vote out some of the rascals. It would certainly change the nature of the organization, including how it relates to the Patriarch who is spiritual father but not the administrative authority. No one in the conference would try to be more Catholic than the patriarch. Barring that, the USCCB should clean house at the staff level the way that Francis is cleaning the Curia. Any of them who conflate their loyalty to the Church with their relationship with Republican front groups on abortion need to retire, resign or be fired. I am sure there those who know where the bodies are buried. Just look at old resumes.
It is true that he who pays the piper calls the tune at universities. Of course, the other options are to form more direct relationships with employers and actually higher upper-classmen as employees of these firms -who would then pay the tuition and provide some grant support. This probably too socialistic for many people, but the other alternative is democratically socialistic - more governmental support for Catholic colleges and universities - and that support is substantial now if you include student based aid and contracts. If the bishops or orders who are the titular owners want to maintain control, they must provide funding to meet the greater needs schools face, including the moral obligation to open more tenure track positions and thereby confining use of adjuncts to distinguished leaders like Bernie Rosen, who was at American when I was there (American is a sectarian school). Of course, governmental support and employer support come with a cost - not in compromising doctrine (no one wants to change the Nicean Creed), but in how the Church treats those it would otherwise marginallize (which is really not what Jesus would do).
Links for 12/28/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 12/28/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: The Provincial gave a good sermon, especially the tie of the incarnation to salvation. Unless it is linked back to the Cross and the empty tomb, the Nativity story is just a nice myth. I feel it when I sing Adeste Fideles, which my father loved. With he and my mother both gone the empty tomb implications hit me like they never did when I sang that song before their deaths. Christmas as Catharsis is something every homily should address, as many our age are dealing with such feelings.
The government should do a lot more for Puerto Rico, but in the interim, the Commonwealth should miss every single debt payment and beg immediate aid from Congress. Only that will force reform plus a much needed control board.
Bishop Barron is likely up for some appointment and he is flashing his bona fides at the Congregation for Bishops in hopes Burke will notice. His point is a very bad one, although I can see why he makes it. Its because he and the Church are in error on the nature of abortion law in the United States. Unless Congress says otherwise, no one is a legal person until birth - and non-legal people cannot have a state interest until Congress acts. Roe is correct, even though Barron does not like it. Having no dialogue is insisting on vincible ignorance - on ignoring facts that might change how the Church deals with this issue - and how it has become a GOP tool as well.
The government should do a lot more for Puerto Rico, but in the interim, the Commonwealth should miss every single debt payment and beg immediate aid from Congress. Only that will force reform plus a much needed control board.
Bishop Barron is likely up for some appointment and he is flashing his bona fides at the Congregation for Bishops in hopes Burke will notice. His point is a very bad one, although I can see why he makes it. Its because he and the Church are in error on the nature of abortion law in the United States. Unless Congress says otherwise, no one is a legal person until birth - and non-legal people cannot have a state interest until Congress acts. Roe is correct, even though Barron does not like it. Having no dialogue is insisting on vincible ignorance - on ignoring facts that might change how the Church deals with this issue - and how it has become a GOP tool as well.
Looking Ahead to 2016: Politics | National Catholic Reporter
Looking Ahead to 2016: Politics | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Cruz's upcoming lead is likely cyclical. The GOP base voters have a habit of "trying out" front runners - one that the Trump flirtation almost short circuited - and may well have. The fault, however, is not with Trump or Cruz - but with the GOP base voters. While Trump has empowered their insanity, it did not cause it. That same insanity will put very real faces on the GOP attempt to keep the Senate and it won't be pretty. As for the House, gerrymandering may assure the Republicans keep the House - however in 2010 the Democrats had no idea they would so badly. Charlie Cook likes to playit safe and seems to have his finger on the scales for the GOP just a wee bit, possibly from not disregarding Rassmussen and other polls that push rather than investigate.
Hillary may or may not win the nomination. There is quite a Sanders movement that is almost as hard to pin down by polls as the Minnesota win by Jesse Ventura. Be that as it may, it is about time for the Democratic nominee to be very straight with the American people about the nature of the pro-life movement as essentially a scam to goose pro-life voters to go Republican in hopes of achieving the impossible (and ill-advised dream) of overturning Roe v. Wade as a state's rights proposition. It is a pity Joe Biden could not run and be as honest. This would be best said by a Catholic candidate - however most Catholic candidates want to play the affiliation card - and its hard to tell the truth while doing that. Maybe Hillary or Bernie can.
Of course, most of the base election issues have nothing to do with how the next Democratic president will govern, although the economic positions likely will. This is why some view Clinton as GOP-lite and are embracing Sanders, who will definitely have a progressive economic agenda and may actually bring in voters at the House level who don't usually vote - thus upsetting the gerrymander and enabling passage of this legislation.Clinton won't benefit from an insurgency, but likely would be no harder on capitalists than Donald Trump would.
On Social Security, removing the gap on both the employer and employee contributions is a quick sugar high, but it increase benefits to the wealthiest. It is far better to actually lower the cap on employee contributions, lowering benefits to the wealthy, while funding the employer contribution with either a payroll tax with no cap or a consumption tax - but by crediting all workers with the same annual contribution. Sadly, although it would work, the conservatives would never go for it.
On foreign policy, you can count on either party and any candidate to let Israel have too much of what it says it wants, which is not even good for Israel. This colors the rest of military and foreign policy in a way that makes who wins irrelevant, which is truly sad indeed.
Hillary may or may not win the nomination. There is quite a Sanders movement that is almost as hard to pin down by polls as the Minnesota win by Jesse Ventura. Be that as it may, it is about time for the Democratic nominee to be very straight with the American people about the nature of the pro-life movement as essentially a scam to goose pro-life voters to go Republican in hopes of achieving the impossible (and ill-advised dream) of overturning Roe v. Wade as a state's rights proposition. It is a pity Joe Biden could not run and be as honest. This would be best said by a Catholic candidate - however most Catholic candidates want to play the affiliation card - and its hard to tell the truth while doing that. Maybe Hillary or Bernie can.
Of course, most of the base election issues have nothing to do with how the next Democratic president will govern, although the economic positions likely will. This is why some view Clinton as GOP-lite and are embracing Sanders, who will definitely have a progressive economic agenda and may actually bring in voters at the House level who don't usually vote - thus upsetting the gerrymander and enabling passage of this legislation.Clinton won't benefit from an insurgency, but likely would be no harder on capitalists than Donald Trump would.
On Social Security, removing the gap on both the employer and employee contributions is a quick sugar high, but it increase benefits to the wealthiest. It is far better to actually lower the cap on employee contributions, lowering benefits to the wealthy, while funding the employer contribution with either a payroll tax with no cap or a consumption tax - but by crediting all workers with the same annual contribution. Sadly, although it would work, the conservatives would never go for it.
On foreign policy, you can count on either party and any candidate to let Israel have too much of what it says it wants, which is not even good for Israel. This colors the rest of military and foreign policy in a way that makes who wins irrelevant, which is truly sad indeed.
Thursday, December 24, 2015
Links for 12/24/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 12/24/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Interestingly, I would have said years ago that Cardinal Wuerl was Benedict's man in Washington, so referring to him as the pope's man is actually more apt. He bends and does not break in the wind.
New Jersey's Catholic Conference is correct that in this time we welcome family, we also welcome refugees and immigrants, since they are also part of our human family.
Francis hits the right notes. I doubt Acton has the spirit of repentence to notice - but when they do we will welcome them into the fold - as they essentially excommunicate themselves. The pope is essentially the model parish priest. Would that all of his priests emmulate him.
Its amazing how many uses Oxford has, from housing for newly recovered alcoholics (and some not so new) to a liturgical revival in the Anglican Communion. If for some reason my schedule collapses, I can view Adeste Fideles here.
New Jersey's Catholic Conference is correct that in this time we welcome family, we also welcome refugees and immigrants, since they are also part of our human family.
Francis hits the right notes. I doubt Acton has the spirit of repentence to notice - but when they do we will welcome them into the fold - as they essentially excommunicate themselves. The pope is essentially the model parish priest. Would that all of his priests emmulate him.
Its amazing how many uses Oxford has, from housing for newly recovered alcoholics (and some not so new) to a liturgical revival in the Anglican Communion. If for some reason my schedule collapses, I can view Adeste Fideles here.
A Bleak Midwinter; A Blessed Christmas | National Catholic Reporter
A Bleak Midwinter; A Blessed Christmas | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: I wish NCR would work a bit later on Christmas Eve, as it will be strange copying these comments to their website on Monday.
Midwinter is sad for a variety of occassions - the biggest one being the shortening of the days in the northern latitudes that have a strong pressence in the Church. Still, Christ was born in the Spring, when the shepherds were in the fields and where the Magi looked for him in April of 6 BCE. If you looked in on the holy family at that time you would see a visibly, but not to terribly, pregnant Mary trying to explain why she was in that state while still a Virgin. This event actually fits better with midwinter than the Incarnation, although it is a part of the whole. The reality of the holiday has been Saturnalia and all those cultural encrustations - most having to do with fighting the dark with levity. While using Jesus as the light of the world supplements them, it does not and should not supplant them.
For me, Chirstmas will be bleak this year as my daughter is in a different state. I probably should have sent for her, but truly putting her at my sister's house and then commuting to spend time would be a major effort, so we will suffice with gift cards in the mail and a phone call or two. Going to Tennessee would have its other complications that I won't go into, so phone call it is.
As a sufferer of depression, this season is particularly hard and I have been susceptible to whatever has been going around in terms of throat and lung infections, so much so that I could not go and sing O Come, O Come Emmanuel last Sunday. My Advent has essentially been commenting on Distinctly Catholic entries, which will haveto be enough. Medication also helps for many in my condition who would otherwise suffer, suicide or resort to alcohol. 12th Step meetings help as well, especially for the dual diagnosed.
This time of year we have Soberthon's, which are meetings in succession on Christmas Eve and Christmas. You will also find me at St. Ann's Christmas Eve Mass, which I really wanted my mother to see one day, but with her passing will never happen. Still, it will be my father I remember when the choir and congregation sin Adeste Fidelis as it is meant to be sung. Tomorrow my brother and sister-in-law are hosting, so I will be surrounded by family, which will be nice. Even living close, it is hard to make time to see each other, so it will be a happy event to stave off the midwinter blues.
Midwinter is sad for a variety of occassions - the biggest one being the shortening of the days in the northern latitudes that have a strong pressence in the Church. Still, Christ was born in the Spring, when the shepherds were in the fields and where the Magi looked for him in April of 6 BCE. If you looked in on the holy family at that time you would see a visibly, but not to terribly, pregnant Mary trying to explain why she was in that state while still a Virgin. This event actually fits better with midwinter than the Incarnation, although it is a part of the whole. The reality of the holiday has been Saturnalia and all those cultural encrustations - most having to do with fighting the dark with levity. While using Jesus as the light of the world supplements them, it does not and should not supplant them.
For me, Chirstmas will be bleak this year as my daughter is in a different state. I probably should have sent for her, but truly putting her at my sister's house and then commuting to spend time would be a major effort, so we will suffice with gift cards in the mail and a phone call or two. Going to Tennessee would have its other complications that I won't go into, so phone call it is.
As a sufferer of depression, this season is particularly hard and I have been susceptible to whatever has been going around in terms of throat and lung infections, so much so that I could not go and sing O Come, O Come Emmanuel last Sunday. My Advent has essentially been commenting on Distinctly Catholic entries, which will haveto be enough. Medication also helps for many in my condition who would otherwise suffer, suicide or resort to alcohol. 12th Step meetings help as well, especially for the dual diagnosed.
This time of year we have Soberthon's, which are meetings in succession on Christmas Eve and Christmas. You will also find me at St. Ann's Christmas Eve Mass, which I really wanted my mother to see one day, but with her passing will never happen. Still, it will be my father I remember when the choir and congregation sin Adeste Fidelis as it is meant to be sung. Tomorrow my brother and sister-in-law are hosting, so I will be surrounded by family, which will be nice. Even living close, it is hard to make time to see each other, so it will be a happy event to stave off the midwinter blues.
Wednesday, December 23, 2015
Links for 12/23/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 12/23/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: It is true that in the golden age of the U.S., the Papists were the scapegoats. That is due not only to Evangelicals, but also to the Masons. Now that a Catholic is perfectly acceptable as a member of the Lodge and as a whole they vote like America (if only they voted like this Pope!), the new fiend is Islam - although they will never have the numbers to be a threat for anything but acts of mini-violece like San Bernardino - and that is an extreme minority who follow the idiocy of Wahaabiism.
Funny joke on Obama. Working as an intern for Catholic Social Services of Chicago under Cardinal Bernardin is essentially to be Catholic, even if not yet baptized. I am quite sure it left a mark, given his great relations with Catholic Charities, Catholic Health and some of the bishops. I am sure he has proper disdain for other, probably the fakes that went after Bernardin, who tried to give the Church to the GOP. The same ones that don't like Francis.
On Cupich, I hope if we had a Pope like John Paul, or even Pius, that he would be saying the same things, rather than conforming for the sake of his red hat. Both sadly and thankfully, we have no way of knowing, but I would like to think that he would be on the outs with an ultra-Trad.
Funny joke on Obama. Working as an intern for Catholic Social Services of Chicago under Cardinal Bernardin is essentially to be Catholic, even if not yet baptized. I am quite sure it left a mark, given his great relations with Catholic Charities, Catholic Health and some of the bishops. I am sure he has proper disdain for other, probably the fakes that went after Bernardin, who tried to give the Church to the GOP. The same ones that don't like Francis.
On Cupich, I hope if we had a Pope like John Paul, or even Pius, that he would be saying the same things, rather than conforming for the sake of his red hat. Both sadly and thankfully, we have no way of knowing, but I would like to think that he would be on the outs with an ultra-Trad.
Looking Back at 2015: The Church | National Catholic Reporter
Looking Back at 2015: The Church | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: The Pope has had a really good year, so good that one could justifiably be Utramontanist when faced with all of her issues. Imagine how much of this would not have happened if we governed ourselves like our mother Church, the Orthodox. We would have linguistic or national patriarchs doing what the Pope does now and any joint action would take place in New Rome, not Italy. Laudauto Si' would have been a conciliar document, not a papal one and the local patriarch to the United States would know enough about abortion law here not to be hoodwinked by a right to life movement who puts fundraising and the Republican Party before the unborn.
Under a patriarchical system, the question of how to deal with married and divorced Catholics, as well as gay marrieds, would be handled differently. We would, of course, follow the Orthodox model on remariage as penitence (though I disagree with the need for that) while bishops who report to a patriarch or, if we follow ancient practice, are elected locally, would be much more likely to embrace gay marriage as the blessing it is for fidelity (the other option is promiscuity, not abstinence) becaue the people clearly do. Likewise, the Conference would be replaced by an occassional Synod and would be much more important, especially with locally elected bishops,as it would speak for the people of God rather than be a dual among appointees of one pope against those of another - all seeking favor with the current or a future pope. No wonder its so screwed up! There would be no Faithful Citizenship, because those voting would be the ones electing the bishops creating the document - so there would be no need for it.
Notre Dame's curriculum decisions are only important as an example. All Catholic colleges and universities face the question of how much relilgious studies (or theology if you must) become division curriculum requirements. Bravo to the conference on Libertariansims, although I seem to recall writing a bit of clarifying language here about what libertarianism is and is not - and I know having written AS a libertarian. It is not a monolith.
This was a very good year and it is not hard to imagine Francis as the South American or Spanish speaking Patriarch - or even a Patriarch for the Americas (we actually have one of those in the Orthodox Church, right here at St. Sophia's on Massachusetts Avenue, NW), in which case everything about how good a year it was for Francis would apply locally.. Even given the structures we had to work with, however, as the Chairman of the Board, Mr. Sinatra sings, it was a very good year.
Under a patriarchical system, the question of how to deal with married and divorced Catholics, as well as gay marrieds, would be handled differently. We would, of course, follow the Orthodox model on remariage as penitence (though I disagree with the need for that) while bishops who report to a patriarch or, if we follow ancient practice, are elected locally, would be much more likely to embrace gay marriage as the blessing it is for fidelity (the other option is promiscuity, not abstinence) becaue the people clearly do. Likewise, the Conference would be replaced by an occassional Synod and would be much more important, especially with locally elected bishops,as it would speak for the people of God rather than be a dual among appointees of one pope against those of another - all seeking favor with the current or a future pope. No wonder its so screwed up! There would be no Faithful Citizenship, because those voting would be the ones electing the bishops creating the document - so there would be no need for it.
Notre Dame's curriculum decisions are only important as an example. All Catholic colleges and universities face the question of how much relilgious studies (or theology if you must) become division curriculum requirements. Bravo to the conference on Libertariansims, although I seem to recall writing a bit of clarifying language here about what libertarianism is and is not - and I know having written AS a libertarian. It is not a monolith.
This was a very good year and it is not hard to imagine Francis as the South American or Spanish speaking Patriarch - or even a Patriarch for the Americas (we actually have one of those in the Orthodox Church, right here at St. Sophia's on Massachusetts Avenue, NW), in which case everything about how good a year it was for Francis would apply locally.. Even given the structures we had to work with, however, as the Chairman of the Board, Mr. Sinatra sings, it was a very good year.
Tuesday, December 22, 2015
Links for 12/22/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 12/22/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Let us be clear about what political correctness is and is not. What it is not is an attempt to be bland so as not to offend anyone's sensibilities. It is not an excuse not to speak the truth. What it is is the simple idea that you don't refer to other people by demographic terms that they see as archaic or disrepsectful - even if those terms are used in house. So come one Papist Mackeral Smackers, get with the program!
I had not heard of a new and improved spa-like abortion clinic. I am not sure that anyone after such a procedure could really enjoy such a thing. Having an abortion is not pleasant and a massage would make it worse, not better. The same goes for miscarriage (by the way, many abortions would have turned out to be miscarriages anyway - its just the odds). Even if welcome, a spa abortion clinic does about as much good as Project Gabriel, which stops help at birth and the hoped for kidnapping (sorry, adoption) of the child. In both cases, the cure is more aid to families WITH children, not just with pregnancies.
Ted Cruz is just the flavor of the week. I am sure after a few weeks exposure the imagination of the media will take them somewhere else - unless you have a memo from Roger Ailes stating otherwise. I personally think that Roger and his minions will settle on JEB at the most convenient time.
I had not heard of a new and improved spa-like abortion clinic. I am not sure that anyone after such a procedure could really enjoy such a thing. Having an abortion is not pleasant and a massage would make it worse, not better. The same goes for miscarriage (by the way, many abortions would have turned out to be miscarriages anyway - its just the odds). Even if welcome, a spa abortion clinic does about as much good as Project Gabriel, which stops help at birth and the hoped for kidnapping (sorry, adoption) of the child. In both cases, the cure is more aid to families WITH children, not just with pregnancies.
Ted Cruz is just the flavor of the week. I am sure after a few weeks exposure the imagination of the media will take them somewhere else - unless you have a memo from Roger Ailes stating otherwise. I personally think that Roger and his minions will settle on JEB at the most convenient time.
Looking Back at 2015: Politics | National Catholic Reporter
Looking Back at 2015: Politics | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Consumer culture is not vanity - it is what capitalism does to keep workers controlled, even when wages go down and the rich get richer. The rich are then idolized, like Donald Trump, and looked upon as strong leaders - as akin to Ronald Reagan - even when the leadership of the capitalist is the cause of the worker's woe. Amazing that, instead of pity, whether one has wealth or not is the measure of their worth. Sad. I agree with MSW that Cruz and Rubio are not much better - but I will not yet believe that some of the saner GOP voices have no chance. I agree Sanders and his people are on the right track, I disagree that we cannot win - and even if Sanders won't use religious language, some of us do to justify our commitment to justice. The problem is also not celebrating an obvious win in identity politics - gay marriage - the sad thing is that with this Congress, Obama can (and has) talked about inequality until he was blue in the face and nothing will come of it.
On the Middle East, Obama is his best to deal with ISIL, but it never pays to get involved in someone else's civil war - and no, Obama did not start it. That was Egyptian Google billionaire who thought that organizing the progressive youth meant that the Islamic Brotherhood would take a pass at revolution, or ISIL. The kind of liberal sexual morality that Planned Parenthood represents and Catholic right so hates is exactly what the Middle East needs as well, and the more they fight against it the more obvious that need is. The desire to be cared for a harem of spriritual prostitutes would go away with the exposure to one or two live women.
As for the domestic rhetoric, anyone who had access to libertarian netserves in 2008 knew that the right wing would go hard racist and that crossing the aisle had no chance - with gerrymandering making sure that they were a semi-perrmanent force. As for Obama being effective in his own party - we have a budget until the end of the year, a health care law that is not going anywhere and exactly the tax legislation Obama promised (sadly with too much for the upper middle class who could pay more easily).
As a people, we have not radicalized. A President McCain may have caused us to organize, but I think we are better off not having gone through such a thing. It would have been nice if underwater home owners had organized for mortgage write-downs, and indeed the GOP realized that was not an urgent issue and organized its racism behind health care instead. That we are noting that continued racism where it is most virulent, in the criminal justice system, is where organization and activism were most likely. Black lives do matter after all - to all of us.
On the Middle East, Obama is his best to deal with ISIL, but it never pays to get involved in someone else's civil war - and no, Obama did not start it. That was Egyptian Google billionaire who thought that organizing the progressive youth meant that the Islamic Brotherhood would take a pass at revolution, or ISIL. The kind of liberal sexual morality that Planned Parenthood represents and Catholic right so hates is exactly what the Middle East needs as well, and the more they fight against it the more obvious that need is. The desire to be cared for a harem of spriritual prostitutes would go away with the exposure to one or two live women.
As for the domestic rhetoric, anyone who had access to libertarian netserves in 2008 knew that the right wing would go hard racist and that crossing the aisle had no chance - with gerrymandering making sure that they were a semi-perrmanent force. As for Obama being effective in his own party - we have a budget until the end of the year, a health care law that is not going anywhere and exactly the tax legislation Obama promised (sadly with too much for the upper middle class who could pay more easily).
As a people, we have not radicalized. A President McCain may have caused us to organize, but I think we are better off not having gone through such a thing. It would have been nice if underwater home owners had organized for mortgage write-downs, and indeed the GOP realized that was not an urgent issue and organized its racism behind health care instead. That we are noting that continued racism where it is most virulent, in the criminal justice system, is where organization and activism were most likely. Black lives do matter after all - to all of us.
The Dems Debate in New Hampshire | National Catholic Reporter
The Dems Debate in New Hampshire | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: The Democrats are boring because their voters are boring (although some of them do like their guns). The GOP candidates are apparantly insane because their primary base is demented and extreme. Mainstream America definitely favors the Democrats this year, which is not to say that Bernie is not electable. You cannot tell that until you have an election. Of course, he is not my ideal socialist candidate, because he is a Democratic Socialist, not a Cooperative Socialist - which is much more radical and how I ran in 2012 (and did not do badly before the organizers pulled the plug). If Bernie frames the DemSoc ideology correctly, it could and should be a winner. As for O'Malley, it did some good things, but frankly his own state does not like him that well, especially not for POTUS. As for Clinton, she has this way of making critical mistakes. You always wonder when the next sensible shoe will drop.
Links for 12/21/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 12/21/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: We shall know who are true disciples by the fruits they bring. Francis is such as these. Its good to get validation from something besides the Vatican News Service.
The Solstice is the reason for the season, since Jesus was really born in April Happy New Year! My friends and I who suffer from depression are very glad the sun will be out for longer, but it will take months for effects to be felt by us.
The best way to deal with Islamophobia is embrace Muslims, critics be damned. As far as the Kardashian metaphore, I would say premarital chastity, not NFP. It seems the Kardashian clan really welcomes children, whatever other things we don't like about them. We should embrace them too.
The Solstice is the reason for the season, since Jesus was really born in April Happy New Year! My friends and I who suffer from depression are very glad the sun will be out for longer, but it will take months for effects to be felt by us.
The best way to deal with Islamophobia is embrace Muslims, critics be damned. As far as the Kardashian metaphore, I would say premarital chastity, not NFP. It seems the Kardashian clan really welcomes children, whatever other things we don't like about them. We should embrace them too.
Friday, December 18, 2015
Links for 12/18/1 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 12/18/1 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: The question on Little Sisters of the Poor is not religious freedom, its religious power. The first freedom really is to be free from religion in certain matters. Here is an interesting question - could the Little Sisters fire an employee who used birth control and they found out about it? If the answer is yes then the accommodation is not enough. If the answer is no, however, then the accommodation is just fine. Indeed, given that preventative care is provided through the offices of the state in a very real sense, to allow the Little Sisters such latitude would be to essentially overturn Griswold v. Connecticut - because it would use public force to prevent contraceptive use based on some view other than the user. That would be bad for liberty, regardless of what you feel about contraception (which I favor, by the way).
Its a shame that Congress skipped town without helping Puerto Rico more, however, changing the bankruptcy code is considered non-germaine to an appropriations bill. The act that does what is needed, both in terms of a control board (insular affairs) and bankruptcy (judiciary) has to wait. P.R. should simply default and let the other hedge funds betting on default collect their winnings.
Mark's piece is very funny. As an ethnic norseman, I would love to see our family's lands in Greenland returned to our use as farmland. I used to have annual thing on the war on Christmas. First, the imperative for making the solstice celebration religious was to remove the debauchery usually associated with such celebrations and essentially co-opting the pagan light symbolism to Jesus as the light of the world. Of course, reverse engineering the Star of Bethlehem the way the Magi Astrologers would have viewed it shows that Jesus was most likely an Aries (April 17, 6 BCE), which of course ads a reincarnation meme to Easter that no one wants to play with. The reality is that dark makes people want to rebel against it, usually with alcoholic revelry. Its why AA has special meetings for this time of year. While expropriating the nativity story to the solstice (even though there were no shepherds in the field in December) is fine for the religiously minded, I think AA does a better job of meeting the needs of the season - and that the other Yule revelry is just fine where it is, thank you very much. You can add Christ to Christmas, but he is not and should never be considered the whole show.
Its a shame that Congress skipped town without helping Puerto Rico more, however, changing the bankruptcy code is considered non-germaine to an appropriations bill. The act that does what is needed, both in terms of a control board (insular affairs) and bankruptcy (judiciary) has to wait. P.R. should simply default and let the other hedge funds betting on default collect their winnings.
Mark's piece is very funny. As an ethnic norseman, I would love to see our family's lands in Greenland returned to our use as farmland. I used to have annual thing on the war on Christmas. First, the imperative for making the solstice celebration religious was to remove the debauchery usually associated with such celebrations and essentially co-opting the pagan light symbolism to Jesus as the light of the world. Of course, reverse engineering the Star of Bethlehem the way the Magi Astrologers would have viewed it shows that Jesus was most likely an Aries (April 17, 6 BCE), which of course ads a reincarnation meme to Easter that no one wants to play with. The reality is that dark makes people want to rebel against it, usually with alcoholic revelry. Its why AA has special meetings for this time of year. While expropriating the nativity story to the solstice (even though there were no shepherds in the field in December) is fine for the religiously minded, I think AA does a better job of meeting the needs of the season - and that the other Yule revelry is just fine where it is, thank you very much. You can add Christ to Christmas, but he is not and should never be considered the whole show.
More on Unions and the Church | National Catholic Reporter
More on Unions and the Church | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: There are two other major reasons for the decline of unions. A major one is the gutting of the enforcement infrastructure at the U.S. Department of Labor and at the NLRB. The second is the lowering of the top marginal tax rate, which for the first time in a long time gave the CEO class a personal financial incentive to go after unions and union pay. As for AFSCME and the other public sector unions, they are very involved in politics because in many cases their wages are not subject to collective bargaining, but instead are a matter of law. Getting cozy with legislators is part of that. It is also way labor is pro-choice - because teachers are a big part of that coalition and they are mostly female and feminist. The fact that the Church has fought unionization at the elementary level has also made it no friends on the issue of life.
Still, colleges are a different animal. Even adjunct work is considered professional and unionization is a hard thing to sell when there are so many willing scabs who will cross the picket line and take that $1000 per credit hour teaching price, or if they are graduate assistants they will teach for free (or at their current fellowship rate). Of course the best option for teachers is to form professional academies and job match undergraduates to future jobs and have the future employer pay the tuition and living expenses of the students - and maybe even the teachers if the firm is employee owned.
Still, colleges are a different animal. Even adjunct work is considered professional and unionization is a hard thing to sell when there are so many willing scabs who will cross the picket line and take that $1000 per credit hour teaching price, or if they are graduate assistants they will teach for free (or at their current fellowship rate). Of course the best option for teachers is to form professional academies and job match undergraduates to future jobs and have the future employer pay the tuition and living expenses of the students - and maybe even the teachers if the firm is employee owned.
Thursday, December 17, 2015
Links for 12/17/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 12/17/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Tony summarizes the agreement well. Of course, there will be no disaster movie events as the climate unravels - it will be a slow evolution where it is people, rather than species, who are eradicated. Luckily, it is not waiting on world action - the agreement empowers individual nations to let their civil servants run lose implementing it - which is a force that is as hard to resist as capitalism. As for nation's helping their neighbors deal with warming, I will believe that when we start building hydroelectric dams in Mexico and Central America - without getting concessions first. The second part seems like it needs more in terms of world government, which the attempt may spur.
Ron does us a service in telling us which states are more important with time. Anyone claiming to know which candidate should exit when should know which states he might win first. Its not the cakewalk for Donald some would think. Its too early to start a general election between Trump and Clinton just yet. Of course, this implies nothing about the general election and the bad electoral vote math facing the GOP.
Bravo to Archbishop Kurtz and the USCCB staff who wrote his statement on the massacres in San Bernadino and Colorado Springs, including a denunciation of gun violence - which is a kick in the teeth that I hope some in the GOP feel particularly hard. I disagree with him on mental illness - not on not blaming the mentally ill (although the Colorado Springs shooter was certainly a nut case) - but on not having this be a priority, both for giving more aid to the mentally ill in terms of both living arrangements and care and in identifying people on the more scizophrenic side who should never own a fire arm, even if they have never been adjudicated as mentally ill.
Ron does us a service in telling us which states are more important with time. Anyone claiming to know which candidate should exit when should know which states he might win first. Its not the cakewalk for Donald some would think. Its too early to start a general election between Trump and Clinton just yet. Of course, this implies nothing about the general election and the bad electoral vote math facing the GOP.
Bravo to Archbishop Kurtz and the USCCB staff who wrote his statement on the massacres in San Bernadino and Colorado Springs, including a denunciation of gun violence - which is a kick in the teeth that I hope some in the GOP feel particularly hard. I disagree with him on mental illness - not on not blaming the mentally ill (although the Colorado Springs shooter was certainly a nut case) - but on not having this be a priority, both for giving more aid to the mentally ill in terms of both living arrangements and care and in identifying people on the more scizophrenic side who should never own a fire arm, even if they have never been adjudicated as mentally ill.
Happy Birthday Papa Francesco! | National Catholic Reporter
Happy Birthday Papa Francesco! | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Happy Birthday Pope Francis! Any speculation he was at all sick was an attempt at the evil eye, as at 79 he is younger than my 53, and much more active. In his reforms of the Church, I believe he is just getting started - cleaning up the mess before the cleaning crew arrives. That crew will be an extension of the Gang of Eight - following the Orthodox model (no one noticed, but the Schism between Rome and Constantinople is healed by Francis and Benedict),
I predict he will appoint continental or linquistic patriarchs, if not national patriarchs, with his seat being one of those patriarchies - all under Constantinople - but with our unique Rites. This will allow even more reform in some areas - both in regard to who is ordained and what they focus on - and of the disolving of the Curia, since it will no longer have a function. I believe this will happen before Francis or Benedict dies - as I do not like to think that Francis is Peter the Roman, who will be martyred by an Italian soldier - although I could see him standing in the way of a bullet fired at looting children. I can't see him as an anti-pope resisting what is inevitable change. In either case, may he have long life.
I predict he will appoint continental or linquistic patriarchs, if not national patriarchs, with his seat being one of those patriarchies - all under Constantinople - but with our unique Rites. This will allow even more reform in some areas - both in regard to who is ordained and what they focus on - and of the disolving of the Curia, since it will no longer have a function. I believe this will happen before Francis or Benedict dies - as I do not like to think that Francis is Peter the Roman, who will be martyred by an Italian soldier - although I could see him standing in the way of a bullet fired at looting children. I can't see him as an anti-pope resisting what is inevitable change. In either case, may he have long life.
Wednesday, December 16, 2015
Links for 12/16/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 12/16/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: If there is controlling and specific legal precident,then it makes no sense to spit into to wind, as the NLRB has done. The only real demand an adjuncts union should make is tenure track, not higher wages. A union would be effective to keep out scabs - although in that case, doctoral students would suddenly be teaching more. Now that would be slave labor.
I am glad France dodged a bullet. You can probably thank the Socialists for appealing to Franternetie for this outcome. It is amazing Xenophobia is rising in a place where the middle class, and even the poor, have it pretty good. I suspect that those low esteem voters always like to have someone below them, especially if they are Muslim.
While it is simply nasty to murder Downs Syndorme children before or after birth, there is a difference between allowing it to happen and mandating it that should be clear to anyone. A Catholic solution to the unborn is for the Church to take point in helping the parents of these mostly joyful children. All you can do about ISIL, like Hitler, is kill it.
Silk's piece addresses apocolyptic langauge. Now that 2000 is safely past, maybe we can put that bit down. In truth, such language is the language of persecution. If no one is persecuting anyone else, such language becomes unnecessary. Hopefully we have gotten to that point, but don't ask Michele Bachmann.
I am glad France dodged a bullet. You can probably thank the Socialists for appealing to Franternetie for this outcome. It is amazing Xenophobia is rising in a place where the middle class, and even the poor, have it pretty good. I suspect that those low esteem voters always like to have someone below them, especially if they are Muslim.
While it is simply nasty to murder Downs Syndorme children before or after birth, there is a difference between allowing it to happen and mandating it that should be clear to anyone. A Catholic solution to the unborn is for the Church to take point in helping the parents of these mostly joyful children. All you can do about ISIL, like Hitler, is kill it.
Silk's piece addresses apocolyptic langauge. Now that 2000 is safely past, maybe we can put that bit down. In truth, such language is the language of persecution. If no one is persecuting anyone else, such language becomes unnecessary. Hopefully we have gotten to that point, but don't ask Michele Bachmann.
Last Night's GOP Debate | National Catholic Reporter
Last Night's GOP Debate | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Classic neo-conservatism includes highlighting the importance of our special relationship with israel - otherwise its just militarism. Rubio is a militarist and Paul is not.
Trump is an undiagnosed bipolar sufferer who can't help but be grandiose. Of course, one may argue that grandiosity is a requirement for office.
Jeb got off the shot at Trump that was replayed over again about insults not being a debate tactic and about Trump being out of his league. Lets hope that someone turns that exchange into a commerical. Canned and prepared is good if its well executed, for Trump cannot insult his way into the presidency. John Ellis does not have to win over Trump supporters, he just has to keep those who would vote for him engaged until voting starts - and GOTV takes organization - something populists hate as inauthentic.
Too bad Kasich is such a bad debater. Even Sanders would crush him. I won't mention the other dwarfs. The polls may or may not mean anything. What matters is turnout, which is harder to project. Many will drop out after Iowa (which is foolish, because Iowa is non-binding), others after New Hampshire. Few will drop out before and the big drops will come after South Carolina, Florida and New York. Plenty of silliness left.
Trump is an undiagnosed bipolar sufferer who can't help but be grandiose. Of course, one may argue that grandiosity is a requirement for office.
Jeb got off the shot at Trump that was replayed over again about insults not being a debate tactic and about Trump being out of his league. Lets hope that someone turns that exchange into a commerical. Canned and prepared is good if its well executed, for Trump cannot insult his way into the presidency. John Ellis does not have to win over Trump supporters, he just has to keep those who would vote for him engaged until voting starts - and GOTV takes organization - something populists hate as inauthentic.
Too bad Kasich is such a bad debater. Even Sanders would crush him. I won't mention the other dwarfs. The polls may or may not mean anything. What matters is turnout, which is harder to project. Many will drop out after Iowa (which is foolish, because Iowa is non-binding), others after New Hampshire. Few will drop out before and the big drops will come after South Carolina, Florida and New York. Plenty of silliness left.
Tuesday, December 15, 2015
Links for 12/15/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 12/15/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Archbishop Wenski does a good job of weaving Nativity mythology into the very real immigrant crisis. Although there is not record of the Holy Innocents, the imagery of the Holy Family alone in Egypt is powerful (even if the family was probably larger than three).
Luckily, repealing the estate tax is a throwaway vote that will never lead anywhere. Of course, we could stop taxing estates, provided we treat the sale of estate assets as normal income - which would never force anyone to sell an asset for tax reasons, but still treat heirs as anyone else getting money for nothing. Of coure, people who have money for nothing are the GOP donor base.
I am glad that the negotiators appreciate Francis setting the tone, but the science and the likely fate of island nations are the main reasons for the accord's passing.
Luckily, repealing the estate tax is a throwaway vote that will never lead anywhere. Of course, we could stop taxing estates, provided we treat the sale of estate assets as normal income - which would never force anyone to sell an asset for tax reasons, but still treat heirs as anyone else getting money for nothing. Of coure, people who have money for nothing are the GOP donor base.
I am glad that the negotiators appreciate Francis setting the tone, but the science and the likely fate of island nations are the main reasons for the accord's passing.
Catholic Universities & Unions | National Catholic Reporter
Catholic Universities & Unions | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Not only does Loyola give adjuncts slave labor positions, it seems like they also force them to take a vow of poverty. There is is quick answer to unionization - simply expand tenure track positions so that all adjunct professors become assistant professors. Teaching college is not a hobby. In truth, this is another case where the claim of religious freedom is really a claim to religious power, which should be rejected by the Church as a whole and the government regulating the labor rights of adjuncts.
Links for 12/14/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 12/14/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: On Puerto Rico and Notre Dame Dreamers, Congress really is in the driver seat. The beauty of the Trump campaign and the Koch's, even in charachature are that they are so outlandish that people of conscience may throw the GOP out. Mrs. Clinton is payig attention to SI. She hopes to carry the female empowerment trend to politics as well.
Monday, December 14, 2015
Climate Change Realism in Paris | National Catholic Reporter
Climate Change Realism in Paris | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Let us be clear on one important matter. The planet is not at risk. Our ability to live on the planet is. Indeed, much of the biosphere is not at risk, although a shocking amount is. The conspiracy theory on climate change, by the way, is for domestic consumption only - or else the accords would not have passed. The Koch brothers, et al, know that they can get the most bang for the buck stopping the Senate from ratifying the treaty - which is why the Democrats won't even let a GOP majority consider it. While a bottom up approach does not stop other nations from acting, it does not stop Congress from making sure nothing happens of significance, although EPA can enforce carbon based on current law. As to whether Francis guided world opinion, I suspect he only shored it up - but that seems to be enough for the world, but not for the second biggest polluter - the United States (China passed the US long ago).
Friday, December 11, 2015
Links for 12/11/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 12/11/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: DiLeo is wrong about the permanence of climate change, or even how its effects are local. Only about half of the negative weather events are because of global warning and they are just not severe enough to merit concern (Cali has more water than most people know and its about to get too much - because even climate is cyclical, any extreme has a natural counter).. People will concern themselves with warming when an innovation is possible. Luckily, the French are about to try out a new Torus Fusion Reactor. If it succeeds, kiss fossil fuels goodbye and begin to worry about global cooling.
Berkowitz's book report offers some comfort, but also a cautionary tale. The largest group, the somewhat conservative, are camp followers. They will vote for the leader in the general but may not offer one - although when the party does, like Ronald Reagan, they win. The secular conservatives are essentially libertarian, but will vote Republican. The moderate and liberal Republicans have money go give, but sometimes they may vote Democratic - which is why the Evangelical Conservatives are being pandered to. They are committed voters that must be had to win - but they can't be the source of the nominee because they scare the rest of the party. The really interesting thing is that a libertarian socialist coalition could probably seperate out two of these groups and a part of another, depending upon the candidates offered on both sides.
Mitch is probably thinking that Clinton or any Republican will offer TPP - but no one wants to admit that now, especially to a restive working class. Only Sanders will kill it. If Mitch thought Bernie would win, he would put TPP on the table today and ram it through.
Berkowitz's book report offers some comfort, but also a cautionary tale. The largest group, the somewhat conservative, are camp followers. They will vote for the leader in the general but may not offer one - although when the party does, like Ronald Reagan, they win. The secular conservatives are essentially libertarian, but will vote Republican. The moderate and liberal Republicans have money go give, but sometimes they may vote Democratic - which is why the Evangelical Conservatives are being pandered to. They are committed voters that must be had to win - but they can't be the source of the nominee because they scare the rest of the party. The really interesting thing is that a libertarian socialist coalition could probably seperate out two of these groups and a part of another, depending upon the candidates offered on both sides.
Mitch is probably thinking that Clinton or any Republican will offer TPP - but no one wants to admit that now, especially to a restive working class. Only Sanders will kill it. If Mitch thought Bernie would win, he would put TPP on the table today and ram it through.
Gaudete: Anticipation within Anticipation | National Catholic Reporter
Gaudete: Anticipation within Anticipation | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Advent is not Easter, although both feasts carry the baggage of pagan rituals on the dying out of nature (which is a placeholder for our deaths) and the rebirth of eastertide. As Christians, we include Jesus as the source of light, as opposed to Channukah candles, neolithic monuments that catch the sun on the solstice or fires to the gods. He is also our hope of resurrection. Still, Yuletide, at its roots, has a very real purpose for us as humans - and it has nothing to do with either sin or death.
The fact is that in the northern latitudes, it gets dark - especially on cloudy days, like this past Wednesday. This makes people sad, especially those with disorders in addiction or depression. Up until 100 years ago, we responded to the dark with revelry and alcohol. For those who are most effected, alcohol is of course, poison - and regardless, death is not a fear for such people, it is a possible release.
This is why there are more meetings of support groups and addiction fellowships during this time - the latter of which does rely on finding a higher power, but is not so obsessed with sin during this season, although dealing with Character Defects and seeking God's help in loving everyone perfectly, as God loves them, is a key part of the 12 step program, but the first thing is the fellowship at this time of year. This is true in religion too, with the decorations, the caroling and the parties. It is break from repentence that may actually be more importat (not may, is) than calling people to confession.
If the Church wants to give Mercy where it is needed, study its pagan roots and meet people where they live. Leave repentence for spring and for those whose souls are already pricked with pain, rather than using penitence to give them some knowledge of it.
The fact is that in the northern latitudes, it gets dark - especially on cloudy days, like this past Wednesday. This makes people sad, especially those with disorders in addiction or depression. Up until 100 years ago, we responded to the dark with revelry and alcohol. For those who are most effected, alcohol is of course, poison - and regardless, death is not a fear for such people, it is a possible release.
This is why there are more meetings of support groups and addiction fellowships during this time - the latter of which does rely on finding a higher power, but is not so obsessed with sin during this season, although dealing with Character Defects and seeking God's help in loving everyone perfectly, as God loves them, is a key part of the 12 step program, but the first thing is the fellowship at this time of year. This is true in religion too, with the decorations, the caroling and the parties. It is break from repentence that may actually be more importat (not may, is) than calling people to confession.
If the Church wants to give Mercy where it is needed, study its pagan roots and meet people where they live. Leave repentence for spring and for those whose souls are already pricked with pain, rather than using penitence to give them some knowledge of it.
Links for 12/10/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 12/10/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: The timing on the Catholic-Jewish relations letter is perfect for Channuka. Of course, the problems in the relationship go back to the rump Judaizers, who thought that the Pauline Church was a harlot for not starting everyone off as a Jew first. John of Patmos was one of those, like the anonymous onepeterfive correspondent. In both cases, modernism wins. Hopefully we can have an adult relationship with the Jews (which is critical of Israel as needed) and which atones for sins that are mostly on the Christian side.
Speaking of sin, I agree with my Archbishop on the need to not avoid Mass due to conciousness of sin. I called it keeping the lines of communication open. Then I simply started avoiding the prohibition on Communion with no ill effects on my soul. Now if I don't make it, its usually because of transportation and waking time issues, not from any sense of guilt. Any such guilt is the product of excess imagination of the pious, i.e., its made up out of whole cloth. Most of the serious sin nowadays is economic failure to share, not a failure of personal conduct. This is what Francis is talking about, much to the chagrin of LifeSiteNews and our anonymous onepeterfive writer, who like to think their lifestyles are a sign of divine favor. Their tone and volume is fueled by their incipient guilt.
Speaking of sin, I agree with my Archbishop on the need to not avoid Mass due to conciousness of sin. I called it keeping the lines of communication open. Then I simply started avoiding the prohibition on Communion with no ill effects on my soul. Now if I don't make it, its usually because of transportation and waking time issues, not from any sense of guilt. Any such guilt is the product of excess imagination of the pious, i.e., its made up out of whole cloth. Most of the serious sin nowadays is economic failure to share, not a failure of personal conduct. This is what Francis is talking about, much to the chagrin of LifeSiteNews and our anonymous onepeterfive writer, who like to think their lifestyles are a sign of divine favor. Their tone and volume is fueled by their incipient guilt.
The Pagan Plot at the Vatican? | National Catholic Reporter
The Pagan Plot at the Vatican? | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: The World Bank is more an organ of world capitalism than anything else. It is good that it is helping atone for its sin by sponsoring the show. As for LifeSiteNews, which shows that the RTL movement is more Republican than Catholic (and BTW, Catholic is universal, as in world government), I suspect the origin of the name Vulcan has more to do with a certain fictional science officer than the Roman god. Paganism, by the way (aside from its easy cooptation by the state, which also seeks deification), is about man and his attributes - it is humanistic, as all religion should be (the alternative is slavery to a priest class). That LSN is against the environmental encyclical is only more proof that they are a GOP front.
Thursday, December 10, 2015
Links for 12/9/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 12/9/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: The best Cliff Notes are an author interview - as reviews tend to reflect the biases of the reviewer. If you like Gehrig's interview, by the book!
I don't read the other NCR. My eyes might bleed. That it comes from someone in rump Church of Denver is no shock. I wonder what the new Nuncio will do with that place. He has to do something.
Catholics are not big singers unless they know the words and tune. Sing anything in Latin during the Chrstmas season and see who raises their voices. The Our Father, even in English (not so much in Latin) also draws out a good robust sound. Of course, if you really want to see singing at Mass, go to a Spanish Mass.
Bravo to Chicago for shoving it back in Trump's face with an interreligious service. His Grace is doing wonderful things in Chicago. I wonder how he would go over in Denver?
I don't read the other NCR. My eyes might bleed. That it comes from someone in rump Church of Denver is no shock. I wonder what the new Nuncio will do with that place. He has to do something.
Catholics are not big singers unless they know the words and tune. Sing anything in Latin during the Chrstmas season and see who raises their voices. The Our Father, even in English (not so much in Latin) also draws out a good robust sound. Of course, if you really want to see singing at Mass, go to a Spanish Mass.
Bravo to Chicago for shoving it back in Trump's face with an interreligious service. His Grace is doing wonderful things in Chicago. I wonder how he would go over in Denver?
Confronting Terror | National Catholic Reporter
Confronting Terror | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Let us also remember that a major force in staffing ISIL (or Daesh, not ISIS) was the Iraqi Army, which George W. Bush and Donald Rumsfeld stupidly disarmed rather than coopting. The reason ISIS was so successful in gaining ground from Asad was that they were already a trained fighting force from Iraq, who had fled to Syria when the Americans and the Sunni Tribal elders went looking for them. Also, while we were a part of the body count in Iraq, much of it is and was about religious and ethnic tension that Saddam kept in check during his bloody reign that finally came out when he and the U.S. were both gone. The likely reason there was no no-fly zone, aside from likely American planes shot down, is that Asad was the only one whose air strikes slowed ISIL down.
I like that Obama alluded to the Waahabi sect of Islam. I wish he had declared war on them directly. It would show the Saudi Royals that we mean business. Bombing the state sponsors of terror should not be limited to Iraq, Iran (in the neo-con's secret desires) and Afghanistan. While we are making progress on the penninsula by fighting the Yemeni extremists, we need to look north and find very specific actions to take, rather than simply calling out other Muslims to outrage. Of course, that should happen too, although the fascists like Trump and FoxNews seem to delight in trying to go after all Muslilms, making getting peaceful Muslims on board even harder.
One curious thing. Why no mention of the deranged pro-life terrorist from Colorado? Just wondering.
I like that Obama alluded to the Waahabi sect of Islam. I wish he had declared war on them directly. It would show the Saudi Royals that we mean business. Bombing the state sponsors of terror should not be limited to Iraq, Iran (in the neo-con's secret desires) and Afghanistan. While we are making progress on the penninsula by fighting the Yemeni extremists, we need to look north and find very specific actions to take, rather than simply calling out other Muslims to outrage. Of course, that should happen too, although the fascists like Trump and FoxNews seem to delight in trying to go after all Muslilms, making getting peaceful Muslims on board even harder.
One curious thing. Why no mention of the deranged pro-life terrorist from Colorado? Just wondering.
Links for 12/8/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 12/8/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: I like how Obama referred to, though he did not mention, Wahabiism and the Saudi Royals' sponsorship of it. Still, he was clear, even though he treated mentioning them like the characters in Harry Potter won't mention Voldemort - which is how the GOP treats Obama (as Silk indicated).
I can see that the idiot GOP Fr. Z might be offended by a celebration of the environment, which was visually stunning, by the way. Propoganda, by the way, comes from Propogate, as in the Council for the Propogation of the Faith. Z needs to get on board or get himself into the St. Pius X Society.
Bravo to MSW for including a link to The Nation. Barbara Ehrenreich's treatment of White Privilege introduces many to the reality of African-American and Latino life - one which sadly many still conform too socially, even when it has not been legally mandated in a generation. I am not that old that Latino men offer me their seat on the bus for my age. It is for my whiteness, which is why I have them keep their seats. If enough white people of conscience become aware of and reject white privilege, it will go away - as it is not a natural thing.
I can see that the idiot GOP Fr. Z might be offended by a celebration of the environment, which was visually stunning, by the way. Propoganda, by the way, comes from Propogate, as in the Council for the Propogation of the Faith. Z needs to get on board or get himself into the St. Pius X Society.
Bravo to MSW for including a link to The Nation. Barbara Ehrenreich's treatment of White Privilege introduces many to the reality of African-American and Latino life - one which sadly many still conform too socially, even when it has not been legally mandated in a generation. I am not that old that Latino men offer me their seat on the bus for my age. It is for my whiteness, which is why I have them keep their seats. If enough white people of conscience become aware of and reject white privilege, it will go away - as it is not a natural thing.
Vatican II After Fifty Years | National Catholic Reporter
Vatican II After Fifty Years | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Considering that a young theologian/priest named Wojtila was one of the dissenting voices at the Council, it is no shock that he narrowed it has much as he could, with Benedict carrying on some of the narrowing and begining to recapture some of the "Spirit of Vatican II." It is absolutely correct that Francis is a pope of the Council. He was not one of St. John Paul's narrowers - he was in that generation of priests which found Vatican II a new and exciting thing, long before the JPII priests and bishops. Let us see if he can counter that counter-revolution we have been suffering under. Maybe he will even undo the retranslations of the English and Spanish Masses. Beyond that, it is priests and theologians who read the Council documents. Aside from what we are fed from these sources, no Council literature is really a popular thing - indeed, when it is, life is sometimes bad - as when those who disagreed with Calchedon's premises were butchered in Alexandria as the result of its edicts. Little by little, religion has stopped being a blood sport - which is progress. Letting Council Documents gather dust is an acceptable part of that.
Tuesday, December 8, 2015
Links for 12/7/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 12/7/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: I suspect that the 46% includes defense hawks, too. Of course, I want to see the other side - what percent will never vote for Trump? It used to be over 50%, but it may have changed. The question is, will party leaders nudge their frequent voters toward someone besides Trump or will they cave into the lesser angels in the GOP?
Sadly, the French attacks came at the worst possible time for their election cycle. I suspect, however, that the impact of these issues in France will be no more than the anti-immigrant movement at the state level in the U.S., where states have no power on immigration.
HRC has very good handlers who put her in front of the right audience and saying the right thing. That is actually an improvement this time out. The question is whether this pandering or whether she can make a few phone calls to call off the vultures - who are beseiging both San Juan and Congress.
Sadly, the French attacks came at the worst possible time for their election cycle. I suspect, however, that the impact of these issues in France will be no more than the anti-immigrant movement at the state level in the U.S., where states have no power on immigration.
HRC has very good handlers who put her in front of the right audience and saying the right thing. That is actually an improvement this time out. The question is whether this pandering or whether she can make a few phone calls to call off the vultures - who are beseiging both San Juan and Congress.
The Year of Mercy Begins | National Catholic Reporter
The Year of Mercy Begins | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Original Sin is around us, but that original sin is blame, not disobedience (Eve blamed God for not making her like God and all concerned proved it is blame by each blaming the other for their actions - remember, its allegory, no matter what Augustine says). Why do we still have war and poverty? We refuse to forgive our enemies - or the poor for being poor. Forgiveness cures all, but only if we resort to it - and before we are forgiven, we must forgive all others. While God is anxious to show us Mercy (and I suspect at least some pagan goddesses had mercy in their M.O., since mercy is a part of the divine in our human nature - ad paganism is all about human nature), we are able to stop him by our inability to show it as well.
Cardinal Kasper is an improvement on doctrine of substitutionary attonement, but I would take it farther. God had no wrath - what he had was a creation - or at least a species - that had separated itself from him because it did not have faith and had blamed - what Jesus did was feel that blame of self that God could never feel, so that through him we might be blameless in our own eyes. Of course, if the Church believed that (as it should, because scripture supports it), it would have no trouble withdrawing its condemnation toward the remarried and the gay married - for they would realize that morality like the sabbath,is for our benefit - not to fulfill some commandment attributed to God.
As for Puerto Rico, it should simply accept mercy for itself and stiff its vulture bondholders. While it would be nice if the vultures quit blaming the poor for being poor, San Juan should not wait for their spiritual awakening to ignore them.
The Year of Mercy is a good time to talk about these things - and I hope someone challenges me for pushing the envelope rather than ignoring me. It is also essential to bring us back into encounter with God - so if you go through the door you receive Confession and Communion. Of course, the confession part would be easier if Francis headed off the sexual Jansenests and put some of the more common sexual sins into their right category as venial. Until then, I fear people will stay away from Reconciliation (though they may go through the doors and will hopefully go back to Communion - having done nothing to keep themselves from it - that includes missing a few Sunday Masses).
Cardinal Kasper is an improvement on doctrine of substitutionary attonement, but I would take it farther. God had no wrath - what he had was a creation - or at least a species - that had separated itself from him because it did not have faith and had blamed - what Jesus did was feel that blame of self that God could never feel, so that through him we might be blameless in our own eyes. Of course, if the Church believed that (as it should, because scripture supports it), it would have no trouble withdrawing its condemnation toward the remarried and the gay married - for they would realize that morality like the sabbath,is for our benefit - not to fulfill some commandment attributed to God.
As for Puerto Rico, it should simply accept mercy for itself and stiff its vulture bondholders. While it would be nice if the vultures quit blaming the poor for being poor, San Juan should not wait for their spiritual awakening to ignore them.
The Year of Mercy is a good time to talk about these things - and I hope someone challenges me for pushing the envelope rather than ignoring me. It is also essential to bring us back into encounter with God - so if you go through the door you receive Confession and Communion. Of course, the confession part would be easier if Francis headed off the sexual Jansenests and put some of the more common sexual sins into their right category as venial. Until then, I fear people will stay away from Reconciliation (though they may go through the doors and will hopefully go back to Communion - having done nothing to keep themselves from it - that includes missing a few Sunday Masses).
Friday, December 4, 2015
Links for 12/14/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 12/14/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Lets be clear, in an Ignatian way, that the value of prayer is mainly to align your will with God's, not the other way around - and praying for others is done so that you may treat them decently - and sometimes this is recipricol - why we are not sure. Other prayers are for show - and we all know what the Lord says about those - that they are their own reward through public acclaim rather than closeness to God. If the GOP were really praying for discernment, we would have reasonable gun legislation. As far as being a fan of Peggy's - anything written for a Murdoch news instrument has to be assumed to be propoganda and therefore false.
Reich is making a name for himself as an independent voice (as is Krugman), rather than as a loyal Clinton retainer. I have to respect that. As for deficits, I don't track Krugman that much, but I imagine he would object to the part of them that is turned around to fund wealthy bond investors by paying them interest. Sadly, no one has published an accounting of what economic class owns the debt held by the American public (exempting the Fed of course). We know some goes to pension funds, but you can bet families own quite a chunk - and not poor families either.
Every Cathedral having a door of mercy is a good idea - particlulary if getting many more people to the confessional is the intention of this year - and last I checked the Cathecism on Indulgences, Confession and Communion within a week either way are required. There is no indulgence that includes automatic absolution without the benefit of talking to a priest about your issues. There is the rub, because some people, quite rightly, believe that what they have been told is sinful really is not, which could turn the Rite into an argument on morality. Simply confessing what you no longer think is sinful is totally dishonest, which is why many hope for clear action from Rome on the various pelvic issues. These issues are one place where the sense of the faithful is far ahead of the clergy, some of whom reportedly also have the same unchaste habits.
Reich is making a name for himself as an independent voice (as is Krugman), rather than as a loyal Clinton retainer. I have to respect that. As for deficits, I don't track Krugman that much, but I imagine he would object to the part of them that is turned around to fund wealthy bond investors by paying them interest. Sadly, no one has published an accounting of what economic class owns the debt held by the American public (exempting the Fed of course). We know some goes to pension funds, but you can bet families own quite a chunk - and not poor families either.
Every Cathedral having a door of mercy is a good idea - particlulary if getting many more people to the confessional is the intention of this year - and last I checked the Cathecism on Indulgences, Confession and Communion within a week either way are required. There is no indulgence that includes automatic absolution without the benefit of talking to a priest about your issues. There is the rub, because some people, quite rightly, believe that what they have been told is sinful really is not, which could turn the Rite into an argument on morality. Simply confessing what you no longer think is sinful is totally dishonest, which is why many hope for clear action from Rome on the various pelvic issues. These issues are one place where the sense of the faithful is far ahead of the clergy, some of whom reportedly also have the same unchaste habits.
Opposition to Pope Francis Comes Out of the Closet | National Catholic Reporter
Opposition to Pope Francis Comes Out of the Closet | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Burke, Olson and Weigel all share that delusion that what they have been taught has always been true, so they truly believe that Francis and his reformers are interlopers. Of course, any real study of the history of the celebration of the Eucharist and Matrimony show something very different - and cloaking their views in piety simply shows them to be the victims of pius error. On the Eucharist, they actually have to be wrong for Francis not to be a heretic - and the sense of the faithful of late shows that Francis is not wrong, that remarriage is not particularly mortally sinful (as long as the divorce was not for the purpose of marrying a specific person) and that to unworthily receive Communion, one must really be a heretic, and apostate or a murderer - sexual sins, or sins of venus are, by nature venial. People may lose heart for sexual sin, but not salvation. Indeed, once the Church conceded that divorce was the correct course in a variety of circumstances, i.e. that it could not be prohibited without continuing injustice, usually to the wife, the allowability of remarriage - as a happy event rather than a penitent one - became inevitable, since the Lord said in the creation of Eve that it is not good for Man to be alone. Since biology shows us that sometimes a man desires another man by his nature, a woman another woman because of hers, gay marriage - and I mean sacramental marriage - is also inevitable. In for a penny - in for a pound.
Links for 12/3/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 12/3/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: I love how the Holy Father links pensions to tenderness and essentially argues that the government should do what the boss won't do.
I suspect that the right wing Baptists who attacked Obama's comments think the Pope, especially this one, is the anti-Christ. Of course, that would be ironic considering Francis just glorified the Huegonauts as victims. Side note, some believe Catherine was the person about whom the Cinderella fairy tale was written, with King Francis as prince charming.
Obama seems to be comfortable talking about religion where appropriate. Given his books and very public former pastor, we know quite a bit about his religious life. Biden as well - and the Kennedy clan. I write about tax policy and religion, so I know they aren't talking about me. I tend to agree with statement, of course - particularly those of us of a more socialistic bent should talk about God so now knuckle dragging Republican fools call us godless communists.
I don't begrudge anyone an early Christmas tree among the faithful. At least they are thinking about the season - even if they can't quite make it to Mass until Christmas eve. I wrote a series of columns on Advent a few years ago as the DC Progressive Catholic Examiner. When I offered a reasonable explanation of Planned Parenthood harvesting tissues (as is done from miscarried fetuses as well), they killed my page - but they are still on my Notes Page (which is sparse enough for anyone to find them) and my blogspot page too.
I suspect that the right wing Baptists who attacked Obama's comments think the Pope, especially this one, is the anti-Christ. Of course, that would be ironic considering Francis just glorified the Huegonauts as victims. Side note, some believe Catherine was the person about whom the Cinderella fairy tale was written, with King Francis as prince charming.
Obama seems to be comfortable talking about religion where appropriate. Given his books and very public former pastor, we know quite a bit about his religious life. Biden as well - and the Kennedy clan. I write about tax policy and religion, so I know they aren't talking about me. I tend to agree with statement, of course - particularly those of us of a more socialistic bent should talk about God so now knuckle dragging Republican fools call us godless communists.
I don't begrudge anyone an early Christmas tree among the faithful. At least they are thinking about the season - even if they can't quite make it to Mass until Christmas eve. I wrote a series of columns on Advent a few years ago as the DC Progressive Catholic Examiner. When I offered a reasonable explanation of Planned Parenthood harvesting tissues (as is done from miscarried fetuses as well), they killed my page - but they are still on my Notes Page (which is sparse enough for anyone to find them) and my blogspot page too.
'Am I my Brother's Keeper?' | National Catholic Reporter
'Am I my Brother's Keeper?' | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Doing something about mental health care availability (including providing it to the unwilling) is being our brother's keeper. It seems the only way to assure a governmental commitment is to threaten the POTUS, everyone else is supposed to see to their own needs. There is something wrong with that.
Sadly, doing something is now harder because Justice Scalia was a Second Amendment judicial activist, construing the amendment as applying to citizens rather than real militia. Still, that can be overcome with political will, either by amendment or by bold action to simply buy all available guns and destroy them. The state could do it or Bloomberg could organize doing it. At some point, murderous buyers will be priced out and manufacturers can be told to stop selling to civilians if they want a DoD contract. That could result in a large sucking sound. Change is possible and it need not even be by the public sector. Call it nobles oblige.
Sadly, doing something is now harder because Justice Scalia was a Second Amendment judicial activist, construing the amendment as applying to citizens rather than real militia. Still, that can be overcome with political will, either by amendment or by bold action to simply buy all available guns and destroy them. The state could do it or Bloomberg could organize doing it. At some point, murderous buyers will be priced out and manufacturers can be told to stop selling to civilians if they want a DoD contract. That could result in a large sucking sound. Change is possible and it need not even be by the public sector. Call it nobles oblige.
Thursday, December 3, 2015
Links for 12/2/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 12/2/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: I won't expose my eyes to anything written in the NYDL, which is Murdoch publication and therefore propoganda. One thing is sure, however, and its that pro-life rhetoric is not designed to convince others, it is designed to inflame passions among those susceptible to their arguments. That is all it has ever been.
Hopefully the bishops will have more heft on Puerto Rico than they have on immigration. One would think that conservatives who love to interfere in the lives of brown people would jump at the chance to impose a control board on the Commonwealth. I still think P.R. should send all its bills to the U.S. Treasury for payment, even if its just a publicity stunt. In DC, to get a Board established and the aid that comes with it we deliberately asked for all that we wanted (or Marion did) - and then used the Board to get it without leaving his finger prints on every page, even though he was in on most of the steps. P.R. needs to insult somebody to have the bailout appear punitive - if only to get the GOP on board. Throwing the bond holders under the bus may be exactly what is needed. No further payments should be made until a bill is passed.
That Msgr. Lofton of the Knights of Columbus has endorsed Cruz is no shock (he seems to be the alternative to Trump and Carson, at least for now). The Knights, because they have been swayed by the pro-lifers or at least taken over by them, have a definite and well known point of view. Sadly, it will be the death of the organization as the older conservatives age out and younger more modernist Catholic men stay away.
Hopefully the bishops will have more heft on Puerto Rico than they have on immigration. One would think that conservatives who love to interfere in the lives of brown people would jump at the chance to impose a control board on the Commonwealth. I still think P.R. should send all its bills to the U.S. Treasury for payment, even if its just a publicity stunt. In DC, to get a Board established and the aid that comes with it we deliberately asked for all that we wanted (or Marion did) - and then used the Board to get it without leaving his finger prints on every page, even though he was in on most of the steps. P.R. needs to insult somebody to have the bailout appear punitive - if only to get the GOP on board. Throwing the bond holders under the bus may be exactly what is needed. No further payments should be made until a bill is passed.
That Msgr. Lofton of the Knights of Columbus has endorsed Cruz is no shock (he seems to be the alternative to Trump and Carson, at least for now). The Knights, because they have been swayed by the pro-lifers or at least taken over by them, have a definite and well known point of view. Sadly, it will be the death of the organization as the older conservatives age out and younger more modernist Catholic men stay away.
Pope Francis in Africa | National Catholic Reporter
Pope Francis in Africa | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: A few points, the Church in Africa is ancient. Sadly, the Copts, who by agreement were to evagelize all of Africa, did not have the resources to get much past Ethiopia and Northern Africa. That leadership needs to be renewed for the entire continent.
Francis is infectious and that he is finding Christ in the poor is MSW's best observation. I also agree that the lack of news coverage of the trip was scandalous and is why I almost passed this article by. Glad I did not, as you will see.
As a leftist, I am actually giddy at his comments on condoms as an issue not being important (on either side). That he devoted the balance of his response to decrying arms manufacturing is huge and a direct assault on the American defense industry, which arms both sides (except that AK-47s seem to be better than M-16s for jungle fighters). I don't see how the neo-conservatives who want a muscular defense policy, including with Israel,can ignore this. That he also condemns traditionalist fundamentalism in doctrine is icing on the cake.
Francis is infectious and that he is finding Christ in the poor is MSW's best observation. I also agree that the lack of news coverage of the trip was scandalous and is why I almost passed this article by. Glad I did not, as you will see.
As a leftist, I am actually giddy at his comments on condoms as an issue not being important (on either side). That he devoted the balance of his response to decrying arms manufacturing is huge and a direct assault on the American defense industry, which arms both sides (except that AK-47s seem to be better than M-16s for jungle fighters). I don't see how the neo-conservatives who want a muscular defense policy, including with Israel,can ignore this. That he also condemns traditionalist fundamentalism in doctrine is icing on the cake.
Tuesday, December 1, 2015
Links for 12/1/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 12/1/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: While there is a lot we can do for Puerto Rico and a lot that will be done by the inevitable Control Board, changing the minimum wage for the poorest of their workers is not one of those things (any more than ending rent control was required to fix DC's economy - a bullet I helped it dodge when I was in DC government in a control period). Few people change their vacation destination based on price and I would rather not vacation with those who did.
As far as the Goveror of Illinois and his cronies, his kind are not Jacobin, they are New Rich (neuveau borgoisie). We have seen their kind before, sometimes for the good - like our founding fathers, and mostly for ill. If the voters which to retain this insanity, they deserve everything they don't get, like safe roads, good schools and satisfied public employees - whose pension contributions are likely protected by law.
The issue with universities is not cost, it is price. Universities love cutting costs but won't cut prices if they can avoid it - and the only way for them not to avoid it is for employers to hire people at the start of their junior years and pay their tuition - at a much lower price. That includes future public employees. As for the four recommendations: administrative costs - or support costs - I suspect that many of these employees are rewarded for bringing in non-tuition revenue or come from another sector where costs are higher; the year round school year is an old canard (as is Fridays off) - as this is when facilities are improved and dorms painted after a year of wear and tear by young adults who are not gentle with the campus - and Friday lets out of state students go home on occassion - and even in state students - and still have time for a weekend with the girl or guy back home; two courses per term is not enough and I agree that published research is not worth anything, but it is not only assistant professors who do it - full profs who have a good textbook need that time to keep it current; as for general education, it should be at institutions which go from junior year of high school to sophomore year of college. After that, students would focus on their major, perhaps in concert with a graduate degree.
The counter-points by Drezner are interesting. The first point about student debt bombs being from for-profit schools is true and why the first two years of college should be free as part of public education - with the opportunity to end school after that last year and get a job where education is helpful, but not essential. Of course, much of student debt is capitalized interest from programs allowing borrowers to suspend payments. Capitalization should stop with the interest forgiven. The second point is obvious, that these services are necessary. The third point, that journal articles going uncited is old is probably valid - we probably need to have Doctors of Education in specific academic subjects who learn both subject matter material and how to teach - and requiring this new degree on an expanded basis. Then if people really want to do research, it will mean something. Fourth, the STEM craze is why employers should pay for the last two years of school - there is an industrial policy component to higher education - although for civil servants having both sociology and political science would seem to meet a need. The ultimate victory in education as industrial policy would be requiring pre-meds to get an RN first.
As far as the Goveror of Illinois and his cronies, his kind are not Jacobin, they are New Rich (neuveau borgoisie). We have seen their kind before, sometimes for the good - like our founding fathers, and mostly for ill. If the voters which to retain this insanity, they deserve everything they don't get, like safe roads, good schools and satisfied public employees - whose pension contributions are likely protected by law.
The issue with universities is not cost, it is price. Universities love cutting costs but won't cut prices if they can avoid it - and the only way for them not to avoid it is for employers to hire people at the start of their junior years and pay their tuition - at a much lower price. That includes future public employees. As for the four recommendations: administrative costs - or support costs - I suspect that many of these employees are rewarded for bringing in non-tuition revenue or come from another sector where costs are higher; the year round school year is an old canard (as is Fridays off) - as this is when facilities are improved and dorms painted after a year of wear and tear by young adults who are not gentle with the campus - and Friday lets out of state students go home on occassion - and even in state students - and still have time for a weekend with the girl or guy back home; two courses per term is not enough and I agree that published research is not worth anything, but it is not only assistant professors who do it - full profs who have a good textbook need that time to keep it current; as for general education, it should be at institutions which go from junior year of high school to sophomore year of college. After that, students would focus on their major, perhaps in concert with a graduate degree.
The counter-points by Drezner are interesting. The first point about student debt bombs being from for-profit schools is true and why the first two years of college should be free as part of public education - with the opportunity to end school after that last year and get a job where education is helpful, but not essential. Of course, much of student debt is capitalized interest from programs allowing borrowers to suspend payments. Capitalization should stop with the interest forgiven. The second point is obvious, that these services are necessary. The third point, that journal articles going uncited is old is probably valid - we probably need to have Doctors of Education in specific academic subjects who learn both subject matter material and how to teach - and requiring this new degree on an expanded basis. Then if people really want to do research, it will mean something. Fourth, the STEM craze is why employers should pay for the last two years of school - there is an industrial policy component to higher education - although for civil servants having both sociology and political science would seem to meet a need. The ultimate victory in education as industrial policy would be requiring pre-meds to get an RN first.
Notre Dame's Core Curriculum Review | National Catholic Reporter
Notre Dame's Core Curriculum Review | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: When I was Loras College, one of the few diocesan liberal arts schools, we did not have Theology, we had Religious Studies and our department was considered quite liberal. There was a Religion/Theology division and we had to take four courses from the division, the seminarians had a requirement for six philosphy, no theology, while pre-law students had to take ethics - which involved taking the intro course, which everyone seemed to take anyway. The All College Honors course had a section on Philosophy, not theology and my doctoral program at an ostesibly Methodist American University had a doctoral seminar (P/F) on Epistomology. I tested out of three religion courses (thanks to Catholic High School) and got out with only two courses, Ethics and the Intro. Because College teaches you how to think and learn, I have picked up quite a bit of theology over the years, which is the point - learning by facing questions. Having epistomology at a secular school added something that would not have been there in a religious one, the ability to learn other approaches and their validity without having a Catholic identity solution as the essential answer. That was probably the most valuable part of my education in these disciplines. Let truth win the day, even if it disagrees with the Magisterium.
Monday, November 30, 2015
Links for 11/30/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 11/30/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Its a universal truth that if Breitbart says it, its a lie. That he is underlying aspects of Faithful Citizenship shows how far some of our bishops have fallen.
On Syrians coming to Texas, which is not so likely, I suspect that DHS will settle the dispute between required consultation and civil rights and the State will lose. Indeed, their funding may be suspended. Hopefully DHS can continue to fund Catholic Charities while bypassing Texas.
In response to MSW's contention that the bishops dance next time the Holy Father visits, I have a video of my own: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qOyF4hR5GoE
On Syrians coming to Texas, which is not so likely, I suspect that DHS will settle the dispute between required consultation and civil rights and the State will lose. Indeed, their funding may be suspended. Hopefully DHS can continue to fund Catholic Charities while bypassing Texas.
In response to MSW's contention that the bishops dance next time the Holy Father visits, I have a video of my own: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qOyF4hR5GoE
Puerto Rico's Debt Crisis | National Catholic Reporter
Puerto Rico's Debt Crisis | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: The Vulture Funds are playing chicken. Puerto Rico should call their bluff and not pay them and let that default work its way through the system. It might just get the attention of Congress. The alternative to bankruptcy is always throwing the bill away and living on cash collected - which is likely less onerous a tax increase than austerity. As for long term issues, like energy and sustainability, this is what control boards are really good at addressing (and getting the funds for). Another instance where default is a good move. If the Vultures get huffy, we can remind them that PR is part of the US and they had better not mess with the US.
Wednesday, November 25, 2015
'Yet until brown clay has been rammed down my larynx....' | National Catholic Reporter
'Yet until brown clay has been rammed down my larynx....' | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Michael Sean Winters gives his Church Gratitude List. I agree with everything he said, as well as his contribution to NCR and the opportunity for all of us to comment on his work.
Tuesday, November 24, 2015
Links for 11/24/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 11/24/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: My sister's friend Dennis Coyle testifies through Steven Schneck that the Parisians flocked to Notre Dame to pray after the recent attacks like we did after 9-11. Of course, this did not stop France from seeking a military solution, which they have been very successful at, much more than anyone else.
The Vatican Insider shows that Francis is heading into the lion's den. At some point, this wrecklessness may be like throwing yourself off the Temple Heights. I fear for his safety in going to a mosque where Jihadis are active.
Twitter is cashing in on the Pope's visit to the U.S. Fun stuff.
The Vatican Insider shows that Francis is heading into the lion's den. At some point, this wrecklessness may be like throwing yourself off the Temple Heights. I fear for his safety in going to a mosque where Jihadis are active.
Twitter is cashing in on the Pope's visit to the U.S. Fun stuff.
http://ncronline.org/blogs/distinctly-catholic/whom-trust
http://ncronline.org/blogs/distinctly-catholic/whom-trust by MSW. MGB: As MSW indicates, we know that at the top of the who not to trust is extraction industries. Their continued politicization of the issue in the wrong direction is a sure indication that they are lying. The state exists, in part, to balance the excesses of capitalism. This is one of those times where balance is necessary.
I trust the scientific community to show that there is a correlation between industry and planetary warming. I trust them less to say with certainty what that warming will do. After all, 1000 years ago the north was warmer than it is now and nobody died of it - although quite a few did die as the Vikings raided because it was warm enough to do so. It may be that they raided because there was a problem with their own agriculture - or it could be that warming allowed population growth and they needed more land - which they found from Iceland to Greenland to what is now Newfoundland. These data lead me to believe that the jury is out on effects.
I trust Pope Francis to talk about the morals of what we must do to deal with an effects that do arise, as well as what we must do to put capitalism in check. Those are more questions. As for climate, I do trust Jorge Bregolio's assessment of the science - as a scientist, not as Pope.
I trust the scientific community to show that there is a correlation between industry and planetary warming. I trust them less to say with certainty what that warming will do. After all, 1000 years ago the north was warmer than it is now and nobody died of it - although quite a few did die as the Vikings raided because it was warm enough to do so. It may be that they raided because there was a problem with their own agriculture - or it could be that warming allowed population growth and they needed more land - which they found from Iceland to Greenland to what is now Newfoundland. These data lead me to believe that the jury is out on effects.
I trust Pope Francis to talk about the morals of what we must do to deal with an effects that do arise, as well as what we must do to put capitalism in check. Those are more questions. As for climate, I do trust Jorge Bregolio's assessment of the science - as a scientist, not as Pope.
Monday, November 23, 2015
Links for 11/23/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 11/23/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: The old saying is that if you can't beat them, join them. Sadly, pro-life Dems still have to buy into the myths that repealing Roe or passing first trimester personhood abortion restrictions are possible or appropriate. Still, its fun watching the GOP sputter that its their movement - which in reality, it is.
There was a lot of de-Judaizing in the nineteenth century. My own family tree backs that one up. Interestingly, if he had been alive at the death of St. John Paul, he would have had a shot at Pope had his background been known, since the Glory of the Olive could have meant Jewishness, rather than a love for St. Benedict.
As for the SNL skit, there is nothing like a good power ballad.
There was a lot of de-Judaizing in the nineteenth century. My own family tree backs that one up. Interestingly, if he had been alive at the death of St. John Paul, he would have had a shot at Pope had his background been known, since the Glory of the Olive could have meant Jewishness, rather than a love for St. Benedict.
As for the SNL skit, there is nothing like a good power ballad.
Francis' Address to the German Bishops | National Catholic Reporter
Francis' Address to the German Bishops | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: The current generation was lost because their parents and grand parents were lost. Looking at current conditions does not explain the causes. Consumerism is as strong, if not stronger, in the US than it is in Europe, so that is not the cause. Indeed, capitalism in Europe is everywhere tempered by social democracy that makes sure people's needs are met - and provides the charity without the Catholic on numerous occassions - see the Syrian refugee crisis if you have doubts. So, have they outgrown God, while at the same time doing his will? Under Matthew 25, that is perfectly fine, by the way.
God prescribes worship for our sake, not His. If we can feed the hungry, clothe the naked, etc, without going to Church, we are still going to Heaven. Still, I don't think German Catholics are staying away secure in the knowledge that living in a social democracy punches their ticket to Heaven. I suspect that the intellectual life of Europe sees God as a vestigal organ, to be cast off once we know better. I am not sure they teach this is primary school, but I am sure the message is loud and clear by university.
It is interesting to see what got Europe to that point. MSW cites the Thirty Years War, intervening wars, all the way to Hitler. Do they blame religion for Hitler? I doubt it. Do they blame themselves for Hitler (at least from when Mass attendence fell off) and the Church for not telling them to stand against him, until it was obvious that Naziism led to ruin, defeat, post-war famine and, more than that, an overwhelming sense of guilt? It is no accident that not only God ignored in school and society, so is the history of the period. I suspect that they feel, or felt, that the judgment of God upon them is great for acceeding to acts so terrible as to be left out of the history books.
What Germany, and Europe, need is forgiveness and reconciliation. Years ago there was a flap about Pius XII collaborating with the Nazis. Perhaps we should admit to the fact that, in some way, he did - or at least did not urge active resistance (which was happening anyway), nor did the bishops - although some priests did, and their heroism is the exception, not the rule. The fear of Hell must be palpable, until you get rid of God, then there is no Hell and you can die, and if in difficulties suicide with medical help, secure in the belief that nothing happens next. The way out is simple, then. Atone publicly for the War - starting with the Church and offering that to the people. Be graphic. Dredge up the horrible crimes upon Jews, Gypsies, enemies and themselves. Forgive the U.S. for atrocities committed from the air, especially is Dresden. Only then is the concept of a God pallatable. Until then, the only mercy from God is to ignore God and the possibility of punishment for crimes of an earlier generation. Sadly, a Church that could do no wrong would not see this as necessary when it could have given comfort to a generation now gone. One hopes it is not too late. Of course, under the Kingship of Christ, all things are possible.
God prescribes worship for our sake, not His. If we can feed the hungry, clothe the naked, etc, without going to Church, we are still going to Heaven. Still, I don't think German Catholics are staying away secure in the knowledge that living in a social democracy punches their ticket to Heaven. I suspect that the intellectual life of Europe sees God as a vestigal organ, to be cast off once we know better. I am not sure they teach this is primary school, but I am sure the message is loud and clear by university.
It is interesting to see what got Europe to that point. MSW cites the Thirty Years War, intervening wars, all the way to Hitler. Do they blame religion for Hitler? I doubt it. Do they blame themselves for Hitler (at least from when Mass attendence fell off) and the Church for not telling them to stand against him, until it was obvious that Naziism led to ruin, defeat, post-war famine and, more than that, an overwhelming sense of guilt? It is no accident that not only God ignored in school and society, so is the history of the period. I suspect that they feel, or felt, that the judgment of God upon them is great for acceeding to acts so terrible as to be left out of the history books.
What Germany, and Europe, need is forgiveness and reconciliation. Years ago there was a flap about Pius XII collaborating with the Nazis. Perhaps we should admit to the fact that, in some way, he did - or at least did not urge active resistance (which was happening anyway), nor did the bishops - although some priests did, and their heroism is the exception, not the rule. The fear of Hell must be palpable, until you get rid of God, then there is no Hell and you can die, and if in difficulties suicide with medical help, secure in the belief that nothing happens next. The way out is simple, then. Atone publicly for the War - starting with the Church and offering that to the people. Be graphic. Dredge up the horrible crimes upon Jews, Gypsies, enemies and themselves. Forgive the U.S. for atrocities committed from the air, especially is Dresden. Only then is the concept of a God pallatable. Until then, the only mercy from God is to ignore God and the possibility of punishment for crimes of an earlier generation. Sadly, a Church that could do no wrong would not see this as necessary when it could have given comfort to a generation now gone. One hopes it is not too late. Of course, under the Kingship of Christ, all things are possible.
Friday, November 20, 2015
Links - sort of - for 11/20/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links - sort of - for 11/20/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: I also try not to tweet and never look at the e-mail account that I have responses going to. The question is whether St. John Paul did the best he could to subvert the parts of Vatican II he never liked and that Benedict supported him in this, even as Pope. The answer is obvious. Is this Pope departing from the retrenchment? I have not seen the Mass translations to literal word for word forms revoked, so there is continuity. If Francis going back toward the spirit of Vatican II? Probably not - although he will give it actual council the honor due it. What is without question is that he is going foreward with the Joy of the Gospel (which Benedict had a hand in) - which is more dangerous for the reactionaries than anything said in Vatican II or attributed to the spirit of Vatican II.
Paris: The Aftermath | National Catholic Reporter
Paris: The Aftermath | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Sadly, among American voters and polticians, people tend to see what they want to see. This issue is a Rorschack test to determine how people already feel. The results are not pretty. Still, while it is good to take in people in need, it is sad that the Syrian diaspora is so thorough.
On France, the people MSW is calling neo-cons are simply just conservatives (a neocon is a former Marxist, probably Jewish, who has seen the folly of revolution and is now taking a very hard line in support of Israel - there is literally nothing relevant to the neocon ideology in this crisis unless we are talking boots on the ground in Syria and Iraq). That said, there will be and never was a Christian Europe (no matter how many Inquisitions the Church tries), nor is the idea of Christendom going to re-emerge anywhere - and certainly not France, which has mastered anti-clericalism.
As for the left, individuals are tolerant, not multicultural - everyone still has their own culture, both in terms of ethnicity, religiousity and what we call grid-group theory. This also has nothing to do with materialism, which is not a part of capitalism but a reaction to it (capitalists would rather keep all the stuff - materialism happens when they have to lower prices so everyone can buy so they can continue to make profit). France, like Europe at large, has a decent Socialist Party and social democratic movement which insists that we work to live, not live to work.
That this has again emptied the Churches means that the Church must be more humanistic in its message, something the French are not wont to do, although the current Archbishop of Paris is at least sounding the right notes on the tragedy. Just to be clear, the God of Christianity is the God of Israel and Islam - its how we look at Him that is important - mostly on an individual level. He is certainly not some bloodthirsty moralist that wants us to make things perfect by violence, either the violence of terror or the violece of the state (sorry Kim Davis and Cardinal Burke).
There is nothing we can do about the Paris tragedy. It is done and ISIS has made threats that we will respond to with hightened security - as well as heavier bombing and better intelligence. The teaching moment, however, comes from how we respond. That involves leadership. Most Americans, like most people in the world, are not above fear mongering. No one has changed their minds about refugees this past week. Indeed, surveys published again this week show that this has always been the case. It is up to leadership to act rightly, regardless of what the hayseeds back home say. Its called courage and it seems that one of the parties has a bigger deficit in this than the other, although it has been the other way - though mostly among conservatives - no neo required.
On France, the people MSW is calling neo-cons are simply just conservatives (a neocon is a former Marxist, probably Jewish, who has seen the folly of revolution and is now taking a very hard line in support of Israel - there is literally nothing relevant to the neocon ideology in this crisis unless we are talking boots on the ground in Syria and Iraq). That said, there will be and never was a Christian Europe (no matter how many Inquisitions the Church tries), nor is the idea of Christendom going to re-emerge anywhere - and certainly not France, which has mastered anti-clericalism.
As for the left, individuals are tolerant, not multicultural - everyone still has their own culture, both in terms of ethnicity, religiousity and what we call grid-group theory. This also has nothing to do with materialism, which is not a part of capitalism but a reaction to it (capitalists would rather keep all the stuff - materialism happens when they have to lower prices so everyone can buy so they can continue to make profit). France, like Europe at large, has a decent Socialist Party and social democratic movement which insists that we work to live, not live to work.
That this has again emptied the Churches means that the Church must be more humanistic in its message, something the French are not wont to do, although the current Archbishop of Paris is at least sounding the right notes on the tragedy. Just to be clear, the God of Christianity is the God of Israel and Islam - its how we look at Him that is important - mostly on an individual level. He is certainly not some bloodthirsty moralist that wants us to make things perfect by violence, either the violence of terror or the violece of the state (sorry Kim Davis and Cardinal Burke).
There is nothing we can do about the Paris tragedy. It is done and ISIS has made threats that we will respond to with hightened security - as well as heavier bombing and better intelligence. The teaching moment, however, comes from how we respond. That involves leadership. Most Americans, like most people in the world, are not above fear mongering. No one has changed their minds about refugees this past week. Indeed, surveys published again this week show that this has always been the case. It is up to leadership to act rightly, regardless of what the hayseeds back home say. Its called courage and it seems that one of the parties has a bigger deficit in this than the other, although it has been the other way - though mostly among conservatives - no neo required.
Thursday, November 19, 2015
Links for 11/19/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 11/19/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: On Warren's speech, sadly neither logic or emotion can reach through a heart afflicted with hate, fear and xenophobia. People individually will moslty behave themselves, but they are dangerous in groups, especially on the right wing. It used to be that, while our fellow citizens famously have great disdain for the constitutional, human and economic rights of their neighbors, people in the political class usually had a decent respect for them. Of course,as Silk reports, now that we have real estate moguls and neurosurgeons sucking up all the oxygen, the lack of courage by those who should know better are afraid to speak out against the nonsense. At least the Church gets the humanitarian part right - even though it misses some of the constitutional nuance on abortion and gay marriage.:
Reflections on the USCCB Meeting, Part II | National Catholic Reporter
Reflections on the USCCB Meeting, Part II | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: I will go in reverse order. The bishops do these meetings for themselves, not for us. It is actually a pity that policy is discussed at all. We would be better off if they just fellowshiped in private. Indeed, I bet there are very few Catholics, even among those who read their diocesan newspapers, who are even aware that the bishops met this week. Perhaps if policy questions were settled with synods on just that issue, we would be less democratic.
On the other hand, they do decide policy. Pity that the Pope could not adjust his schedule to be here for the meeting. I am certain the opponents of hermeneutic of reform would have kept their tongues - and I doubt Faithful Citizenship would have passed. We would get the same result if we had a national patriarch to look too, instead of Rome - to adopt the more Orthodox model. It would certainly have an impact on the careerists, as the spectre of Roman interference always looms large for them - and with our own Patriarch, it would be totally absent. It would also be easier to explain constitutional law to the Patriarch, which would change everything, starting with the translation of the Mass.
On the other hand, they do decide policy. Pity that the Pope could not adjust his schedule to be here for the meeting. I am certain the opponents of hermeneutic of reform would have kept their tongues - and I doubt Faithful Citizenship would have passed. We would get the same result if we had a national patriarch to look too, instead of Rome - to adopt the more Orthodox model. It would certainly have an impact on the careerists, as the spectre of Roman interference always looms large for them - and with our own Patriarch, it would be totally absent. It would also be easier to explain constitutional law to the Patriarch, which would change everything, starting with the translation of the Mass.
Links for 11/18/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 11/18/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: The Koch investigative machine is not so efficient. I keep writing that we have a long way to go before we are too warm and I have not yet seen my check from Mr. Koch
I am shocked Stephen King did not endorse Trump, so this gives Cruz some heft in the caucuses - at least among King's network of volunteers. Is this worse than Trump. Probably not, but it might keep the process open until we get a good look at Kasich, who is the best of that bunch.
I think we can assume that Obama has P.R.'s back. The question is whether Ryan and McConnell are willling to play ball, since many of the changes, probably including establishing a control board, require legislation. I tell you, if they do nothing than either statehood or independence need a serious look.
I think the divisions between civil and religious life in France have been improving for a long time, although never entirely to the Church's satisfaction - which is likely a good thing too. The days of religious power in France are long gone and never to return, which is true here as well. As for ISIL, when people stop leaving and start shooting back, or if we force the Saudis to quit sending money (and bomb the wells that are supporting them), it is most likely that the tribal elders will have their fill of the Jihadis and will be the ones shooting at ISIL - as they did the last time they were chased into Syria. We need to realize we cannot cause someone else's revolution, nor can we stop it (as Viet Nam proved well).
I am shocked Stephen King did not endorse Trump, so this gives Cruz some heft in the caucuses - at least among King's network of volunteers. Is this worse than Trump. Probably not, but it might keep the process open until we get a good look at Kasich, who is the best of that bunch.
I think we can assume that Obama has P.R.'s back. The question is whether Ryan and McConnell are willling to play ball, since many of the changes, probably including establishing a control board, require legislation. I tell you, if they do nothing than either statehood or independence need a serious look.
I think the divisions between civil and religious life in France have been improving for a long time, although never entirely to the Church's satisfaction - which is likely a good thing too. The days of religious power in France are long gone and never to return, which is true here as well. As for ISIL, when people stop leaving and start shooting back, or if we force the Saudis to quit sending money (and bomb the wells that are supporting them), it is most likely that the tribal elders will have their fill of the Jihadis and will be the ones shooting at ISIL - as they did the last time they were chased into Syria. We need to realize we cannot cause someone else's revolution, nor can we stop it (as Viet Nam proved well).
Reflections on the USCCB Meeting, Part I | National Catholic Reporter
Reflections on the USCCB Meeting, Part I | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: The rudeness of DiNardo and cluelessness of Blair are why I believe in local election for bishops - as if that occured they would not likely be in the conference. I am also not that sanguine with Wuerl, who with Blair and DiNardo essentially blocked any meaningful change in the focus of the USCCB. I agree that McElroy was a bright spot. I hope he gets both a red hat and an elected position in the conference. The reform minded bishops will appreciate him, but may not have the heft to block DiNardo from the Presidency - but Vice President would be lovely.
As to continuity and discontinuity - much of the discontinuity in reform was reversed by both St. John Paul, who fought it at Vatican II, and Benedict, his attack dog - who even in the papacy gave us a translation of the Mass (which is what people mostly notice), that almost word for word reflected the English translation of the Mass of St. John XXIII. Of course, some changes can't be undone, much to the chagri of Bishop Blair. The Sisters have found their own path that is not as dependent on the local Ordinary (and some are very Ordinary) as the bishops would like, taking health care reform as an example and their williness to accept the accommodation on birth control offered by Obama.
This brings me to the heresy of Americanism - which is a feature, not a heresy. It is not a bad thing when doctrine must be bound within our constitutional system. Our legislature will not simply bend its will to Catholic voters, prompted by Catholic prelates on many of the issues of the day - primarily because they are issues of individual rights - like gay marriage, contraception, gay sex and, yes, abortion. Only England and English common law nations put rights over the power of the legislature and the institutions (like the Church) who would dictate otherwise. Its a feature, not a flaw, and until the Vatican and the USCCB come to grips with this, they will be spitting in the wind with such documents as Faithful Citizenship.
St. Pius was also wrong about his Condemnation of Modernism - especially as it pertains to biblical and theological scholarship. At least most of the Church, aside from the CDF and some in the USCCB, have granted that the Modernists have won and its a good thing. Anti-modernism is essentially the stance that doctrine must be protected from the truth as it developed. Francis seems to understand these dynamics, so it is no shock that some of our bishops are confused, although he does not understand American law and I suspect President Obama did not have the time to explain it to him. Mores the pity.
Note that the holding of Modernism or Americanism does not block one from being a faithful Catholic. Indeed, accepting reality is no block to a belief in the Resurrection and all of those doctrines that really matter. We are for the Church, not against it, even when it errs like the bishops did this week. Those of us who are to the left will vote like we always do, without regard to the latest disasterous document.
As to continuity and discontinuity - much of the discontinuity in reform was reversed by both St. John Paul, who fought it at Vatican II, and Benedict, his attack dog - who even in the papacy gave us a translation of the Mass (which is what people mostly notice), that almost word for word reflected the English translation of the Mass of St. John XXIII. Of course, some changes can't be undone, much to the chagri of Bishop Blair. The Sisters have found their own path that is not as dependent on the local Ordinary (and some are very Ordinary) as the bishops would like, taking health care reform as an example and their williness to accept the accommodation on birth control offered by Obama.
This brings me to the heresy of Americanism - which is a feature, not a heresy. It is not a bad thing when doctrine must be bound within our constitutional system. Our legislature will not simply bend its will to Catholic voters, prompted by Catholic prelates on many of the issues of the day - primarily because they are issues of individual rights - like gay marriage, contraception, gay sex and, yes, abortion. Only England and English common law nations put rights over the power of the legislature and the institutions (like the Church) who would dictate otherwise. Its a feature, not a flaw, and until the Vatican and the USCCB come to grips with this, they will be spitting in the wind with such documents as Faithful Citizenship.
St. Pius was also wrong about his Condemnation of Modernism - especially as it pertains to biblical and theological scholarship. At least most of the Church, aside from the CDF and some in the USCCB, have granted that the Modernists have won and its a good thing. Anti-modernism is essentially the stance that doctrine must be protected from the truth as it developed. Francis seems to understand these dynamics, so it is no shock that some of our bishops are confused, although he does not understand American law and I suspect President Obama did not have the time to explain it to him. Mores the pity.
Note that the holding of Modernism or Americanism does not block one from being a faithful Catholic. Indeed, accepting reality is no block to a belief in the Resurrection and all of those doctrines that really matter. We are for the Church, not against it, even when it errs like the bishops did this week. Those of us who are to the left will vote like we always do, without regard to the latest disasterous document.
Tuesday, November 17, 2015
Faithful Citizenship Debate Continues | National Catholic Reporter
Faithful Citizenship Debate Continues | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: There is nothing like public controversy to put people on the record for how they think and who they stand with. The take-away line is that the Pope is aware of the opposition in the US to his approach. Perhaps that should be enough to withdraw the document - although I think the damage has been done to a few careerists who very much deserve to be outed. With this crowd, I don't expect an exhortation on the joys of Modernism - I suspect the Church will always be a little behind on that front - but it need not stay in place. Still, focusing on both Religious Power (not freedom) and the settled law on gay marriage is enough to reject this quadrenniel guilt tripping of progressives from the altar. Where gay marriage should be a worry is from those who would ask that their marriages be blessed or at least recognized - much in the way that Francis greeted and acknowledged one of his gay friends and his husband when he visited the U.S. Can't wait to hear the vote. Too bad its a secret ballot.
Debate on Faithful Citizenship, Part 1 | National Catholic Reporter
Debate on Faithful Citizenship, Part 1 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Props to Bishop McElroy for telling the truth everyone knew anyway. Lets see if it allows people the freedom to vote no, no matter what DiNardo and Wuerl say about the limited objectives of continued cooperation with the G.O.P., even to the extent that they conflict with what the Pope has been saying. Of course, it is no tragedy. Catholic voters vote in the same partisan share as anyother voters - and those who vote Democrat will simply ignore this document. Of course, if it only pleases those who agree with it, its not authoritative teaching, it is at best propoganda and at worst, waste paper and wasted breath by those pastors who bother to teach on it a year from now.
USCCB Election Results I | National Catholic Reporter
USCCB Election Results I | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: If the election of Fr. Bransfield send the staff who believe that serving Christ is best served by serving the Republican Party, then that may not be a bad thing. Of course, if it chases out the moderates, that would be a bad thing. Upper level jobs are not that easy to come by, so I doubt there will be a rush to the exits by anyone.
USCCB Strategic Priorities | National Catholic Reporter
USCCB Strategic Priorities | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Just a question: Did Jesus have strategic priorities? Would they be any of these?
Day 2 at the USCCB: Strategic Priorities | National Catholic Reporter
Day 2 at the USCCB: Strategic Priorities | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: It is sad that the poor get lip service and not real policy recommendations - but it is sad because the staff who drafted this round of Faithful Citizenship know that if they mention specifics, those specifics will favor Democratic candidates. The powers that be can't have that - it would be bad for their Republican party connections in the anti-equality and anti-abortion movements.
Evangelization as they describe it centers with them, not Jesus and certainly not with evangelization with the poor (the least of His brothers). What they are after is Religious Power, not religious liberty, and no one will be clamoring to join this movement except other bishops and priests who want to be bishops. Of course, as MSW says, they don't seem to realize that the Pope who will promote them, or even retain them, as changed the rules.
The election of General Secretary will demonstrate whether a vote of confidence will occur in how the staff is handling issues - or if someone who is possibly more extreme will get the job. An interesting day that has already played out as I post this.
Evangelization as they describe it centers with them, not Jesus and certainly not with evangelization with the poor (the least of His brothers). What they are after is Religious Power, not religious liberty, and no one will be clamoring to join this movement except other bishops and priests who want to be bishops. Of course, as MSW says, they don't seem to realize that the Pope who will promote them, or even retain them, as changed the rules.
The election of General Secretary will demonstrate whether a vote of confidence will occur in how the staff is handling issues - or if someone who is possibly more extreme will get the job. An interesting day that has already played out as I post this.
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