Links for 08/31/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Trump will be no third party figure, any more than Sanders will be. Both learned the lesson of Nader and Perot and will try to win their party nomination. Whether Trump is mentally well enough to do so is an open question, but a concerted effort to go after him by the leadership OR his victory will ruin the GOP.
OSV and MSW may or may not be overstating the impact on the Latino Church of a papal visit. The question is whether they will take their share of ownership in thei home parishes as a result. Whether this is the main theme depends on what he says about Family issues and the economy. While Francis won't endorse Sanders, they may be talking the same language.
Modernists are not necessarily iconoclasts. Indeed, it is the smart Marxist that claims religious belief. There is little surprise that the grand son of Turin, where the shroud is kept, would have a fondness for relics. We modernists simply won't admit that all ritual and relic is the property of the Trads, who we still suspect of power holding not for the Church's sake, but their own. I have always said nothing would be more apt than a Tridentine gay wedding.
Monday, August 31, 2015
The Consistent Ethic of Life & Its Critics | National Catholic Reporter
The Consistent Ethic of Life & Its Critics | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: The Consistent Ethic of Life was a dodge by Cardinal Bernardin to allow Catholics to remain in the Democratic Party and still be good Catholics. It is totally at odds with the operational strategy of the Pro-Life Movement in Republican Party, which is to control both houses of Congress, the White House, the SCOTUS and three-fifths of the state legislatures so as to overturn Roe by a jurisdictional argument (the one supported by the Federalist Society that has the states decide all such issues, including gay marriage and segregation) and, barring that, propose and pass a Life Amendment recognizing life at conception (ending birth control too).
The problem, of course, is America is too evenly divided for that to ever happen. The closest the movement will ever come was the Partial Birth Abortion Act, which three Republican Justices, including the recently appointed Roberts and Alito demurred on using as a way to overturn Roe. Of course, the Republicans could have still used their majority to settle the question of late term abortion – all of it – including the health exception (which is essential if the fetus has no chance of survival). Of course, it would have had to face the problem of miscarriage in a personhood paradigm, one which is really impossible to resolve except by allowing first trimester abortion to continue. Of course, that would ruin the movement.
The video question is stale and points to procedures in harvesting tissue from advanced miscarriage. No there there. As for immigration, Americans like cheap food and the people who sell it like undocumented workers who can be dismissed for making trouble.
The mention question cheapens Life into a sound bite, even in sermons. Enough said.
Matt Abbott is trying to be more Pro-life than Chaput. Now that is funny. He must be keeping an extremist donor or donor base happy.
Leaving the end of life questions out of the article would have made it tighter. It does go to the question of motivation. Do we really care about all those aborted fetuses and the assisted suicides of the world, or is the movement really trying to defend the honor of God, who is made into an Ogre in the process? While no one should be killed for the cost savings, stopping treatment when it is clear that death is immediate result of any path is a legitimate Catholic position which deserves further study away from the knee jerk pro-lifers.
I agree, these are hard questions, but they will not be solved by a knee-jerk appeal to the Magisterium any more than to giving license to the uninformed conscience.
The problem, of course, is America is too evenly divided for that to ever happen. The closest the movement will ever come was the Partial Birth Abortion Act, which three Republican Justices, including the recently appointed Roberts and Alito demurred on using as a way to overturn Roe. Of course, the Republicans could have still used their majority to settle the question of late term abortion – all of it – including the health exception (which is essential if the fetus has no chance of survival). Of course, it would have had to face the problem of miscarriage in a personhood paradigm, one which is really impossible to resolve except by allowing first trimester abortion to continue. Of course, that would ruin the movement.
The video question is stale and points to procedures in harvesting tissue from advanced miscarriage. No there there. As for immigration, Americans like cheap food and the people who sell it like undocumented workers who can be dismissed for making trouble.
The mention question cheapens Life into a sound bite, even in sermons. Enough said.
Matt Abbott is trying to be more Pro-life than Chaput. Now that is funny. He must be keeping an extremist donor or donor base happy.
Leaving the end of life questions out of the article would have made it tighter. It does go to the question of motivation. Do we really care about all those aborted fetuses and the assisted suicides of the world, or is the movement really trying to defend the honor of God, who is made into an Ogre in the process? While no one should be killed for the cost savings, stopping treatment when it is clear that death is immediate result of any path is a legitimate Catholic position which deserves further study away from the knee jerk pro-lifers.
I agree, these are hard questions, but they will not be solved by a knee-jerk appeal to the Magisterium any more than to giving license to the uninformed conscience.
Friday, August 28, 2015
Links for 08/28/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 08/28/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Talk to a Catholic hospital O.B. about preserving fetal parts for tissue donation or analysis after a later term miscarriage and they will say the same thing, and as casually, if over a glass of wine and dinner. I think an apology is in order from the pro-life Catholic press. I want video.
To be clear, Trump is going after the Huckabee crowd of right-wing southern culturally conservative (PC for racialist) Evangelicals. There are plenty of Evangelicals who are not all of those things. Some support Sanders.
MSW's protege' is correct that Francis is not a Relativist in the terms Benedict uses, although I would call them both relativistic because the Magisterium is nothing if not a skewed version of natural law applicable to one group (rather than everyone). That is the textbook definition of relativism. Indeed, any time a group gets together and agrees on something, it applies to the group. Universal knowledge does not need authority. Once you add authority, you have relativism in reference to that authority - which has no affect on those who do not recognize the authority.
To be clear, Trump is going after the Huckabee crowd of right-wing southern culturally conservative (PC for racialist) Evangelicals. There are plenty of Evangelicals who are not all of those things. Some support Sanders.
MSW's protege' is correct that Francis is not a Relativist in the terms Benedict uses, although I would call them both relativistic because the Magisterium is nothing if not a skewed version of natural law applicable to one group (rather than everyone). That is the textbook definition of relativism. Indeed, any time a group gets together and agrees on something, it applies to the group. Universal knowledge does not need authority. Once you add authority, you have relativism in reference to that authority - which has no affect on those who do not recognize the authority.
Happy Feast of St. Augustine | National Catholic Reporter
Happy Feast of St. Augustine | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: The best biography of Augustine was by Gary Wills. It is hardly hagiography, which is why it is so good. He does not gloss over the misogyny of the time nor does he peg the pastoral Augustine to his earlier writings, which seem to pale by comparison to the mercy shown on some of those issues the Saint is known the best for. My comments are my own, not Gary’s.
That sin exists is obvious. Assigning it cosmic origins seems less so today. Theologians have traded in references to our “First Parents” because modern science has abandoned Adam and Eve as historic possibilities. We have also drawn the wrong lesson from the Genesis parable as it relates to Jesus and His teachings. The Genesis myth was about blame, not sin. Forgiveness is the answer to that, starting with the example of the Cross, which was a vision quest where Christ meets us in our pain rather than a cosmic blood sacrifice to God the Ogre. If we understood that, this would be progress.
Oh, there is nothing liberating about making sex a sin, especially for women, who seem to come out the worse for the deal.
As for the city of God built by the Holy, I prefer the kingdom of God as outlined by Jesus, which is a bit less respectful of civil and Church authority than Augustine could ever be comfortable with. The kingdom will never be perfectly ordered, indeed, the Catholic Middle Ages with the equally Christian Tartars to the east were hardly the City that Augustine spoke of. Winthrop got it wrong too. The kingdom of God is more a protest against power in any age, not an urge to exercise it.
Does this make Augustine less of a giant? Hardly. Just need a tune up. He was a product of his time in the Church and he did his best to define and consolidate what was in need of consolidation – but we still do not have to end there. Teaching for our time is as worthy a gesture for all of us saints, who celebrate this feast with Augustine.
That sin exists is obvious. Assigning it cosmic origins seems less so today. Theologians have traded in references to our “First Parents” because modern science has abandoned Adam and Eve as historic possibilities. We have also drawn the wrong lesson from the Genesis parable as it relates to Jesus and His teachings. The Genesis myth was about blame, not sin. Forgiveness is the answer to that, starting with the example of the Cross, which was a vision quest where Christ meets us in our pain rather than a cosmic blood sacrifice to God the Ogre. If we understood that, this would be progress.
Oh, there is nothing liberating about making sex a sin, especially for women, who seem to come out the worse for the deal.
As for the city of God built by the Holy, I prefer the kingdom of God as outlined by Jesus, which is a bit less respectful of civil and Church authority than Augustine could ever be comfortable with. The kingdom will never be perfectly ordered, indeed, the Catholic Middle Ages with the equally Christian Tartars to the east were hardly the City that Augustine spoke of. Winthrop got it wrong too. The kingdom of God is more a protest against power in any age, not an urge to exercise it.
Does this make Augustine less of a giant? Hardly. Just need a tune up. He was a product of his time in the Church and he did his best to define and consolidate what was in need of consolidation – but we still do not have to end there. Teaching for our time is as worthy a gesture for all of us saints, who celebrate this feast with Augustine.
Thursday, August 27, 2015
Links for 08/27/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 08/27/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: The Atlantic piece accuses the Pope of Machiavellian humility. I hope this is not true. Humility is a charism. It comes from loving yourself exactly as you are and as you are not. Of course, maybe the effort is not fake in that case.
Thank you MSW for giving me enough to not have to read Weigel myself. I am not sure what universe or time George inhabits, but the all-in-Catholicism will be all about reform, forgiveness and especially anti-capitalism. Is he planning on going to Purgatory or worse?
Archbishop Alexander must have a conservative flock to sing such a depraved tune. The Cathechism reflects the spiritually cowardly language of Ratzinger, who thought that gays and lesbians could not possibly be given any quarter by the Church or God would would punish us all. In reality, there is no natural order beyond what we invent. Call it Catholic Karma. Forgiveness is the only Karma and in homosexuality, provided it is as monogamous as heterosexuality, there is no sin to forgive. The only sin is intolerance here and may God have mercy on this Archbishop's soul.
Thank you MSW for giving me enough to not have to read Weigel myself. I am not sure what universe or time George inhabits, but the all-in-Catholicism will be all about reform, forgiveness and especially anti-capitalism. Is he planning on going to Purgatory or worse?
Archbishop Alexander must have a conservative flock to sing such a depraved tune. The Cathechism reflects the spiritually cowardly language of Ratzinger, who thought that gays and lesbians could not possibly be given any quarter by the Church or God would would punish us all. In reality, there is no natural order beyond what we invent. Call it Catholic Karma. Forgiveness is the only Karma and in homosexuality, provided it is as monogamous as heterosexuality, there is no sin to forgive. The only sin is intolerance here and may God have mercy on this Archbishop's soul.
Run, Joe, Run! | National Catholic Reporter
Run, Joe, Run! | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: I see nothing in this editorial disqualifying Bernie Sanders, who is surely the most similar to MSW on the Palestinian question (and the farthest from me). Indeed, Joe and I probably agree on reasonable accommodation to Palestinian Arabs and Samaritans (there are more of us than anyone thinks and we have a right to be there). I wonder if Joe would go as far to the left economically as Bernie - indeed if not farther. One can hope, although I am still convinced we need a Democratic Socialist in the White House - and if that gives MSW disquiet, that is a bonus.
What Joe could bring to the table is the ability to use his office to educate the public, the bishops and MSW on the true nature of the Right to Life Movement - it is still a Republican scam and until it gets behind a $1000 a month Child Tax Credit and away from controlling female sexuality (and its related opposition to marriage rights for gays and lesbians, which are now recognized in law), I will continue to view it as such and will consider its defenders to be fooled. If Joe makes the same case strongly, even if he does not win, his campaign would be worth something. We need a Catholic who can stand up to the hierarchs, like Francis.
What Joe could bring to the table is the ability to use his office to educate the public, the bishops and MSW on the true nature of the Right to Life Movement - it is still a Republican scam and until it gets behind a $1000 a month Child Tax Credit and away from controlling female sexuality (and its related opposition to marriage rights for gays and lesbians, which are now recognized in law), I will continue to view it as such and will consider its defenders to be fooled. If Joe makes the same case strongly, even if he does not win, his campaign would be worth something. We need a Catholic who can stand up to the hierarchs, like Francis.
Wednesday, August 26, 2015
Links for 08/26/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 08/26/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Good for the inmates and for Francis for accepting the gift.
It is inhumane to abort Down’s children, but many parents fear the alternative. It is up to us to fully fund solutions that will fully support these people for life, not just maturity, and to support the parents as well. Even without federal funding.
Secularism is a more acceptable version of atheism, because it has no reference to any deity as a counter-point. Its less scary than claiming Marx. There is nothing wrong with it and the constitution is secular enough. The problem is those who would baptize the Constitution in the Great Awakening, which is untrue. A Masonic initiation would be more correct in describing the founding ideology. Last I checked, of course, lodge membership was not a requirement of Democratic Socialism. Neither is Secularism, although the latter is common.
It is inhumane to abort Down’s children, but many parents fear the alternative. It is up to us to fully fund solutions that will fully support these people for life, not just maturity, and to support the parents as well. Even without federal funding.
Secularism is a more acceptable version of atheism, because it has no reference to any deity as a counter-point. Its less scary than claiming Marx. There is nothing wrong with it and the constitution is secular enough. The problem is those who would baptize the Constitution in the Great Awakening, which is untrue. A Masonic initiation would be more correct in describing the founding ideology. Last I checked, of course, lodge membership was not a requirement of Democratic Socialism. Neither is Secularism, although the latter is common.
Wrapping up the Curtain Raisers | National Catholic Reporter
Wrapping up the Curtain Raisers | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: The Spanish talks will be off putting to Catholic nativists who forget their immigrant roots. This is a good thing. It is time for Latinos to be as valued for their Spanish Masses as the Polish language attendees are. That is as important as what he says, which is also vital. Let’s see how the conservatives (as opposed to the Trads) deal with any hint of liberation theology. Viva Maximo! Viva Francisco! Don’t even mention the name of the candidate for a haircut with our beloved Pontiff!
Let us hope that liberation theology also goes to the labor movement. In both cases, of course, the job of Francis is self-empowerment for both Latinos and Labor.
On affirming the faithful, in the civil rights movement we have a phrase about comforting the afflicted and afflicting the comfortable. This sounds about right. On some issues, of course, there are those who hope Francis does this to the man in the mirror (and wonder whether Pope Joan will be our only female pope).
Let us hope that liberation theology also goes to the labor movement. In both cases, of course, the job of Francis is self-empowerment for both Latinos and Labor.
On affirming the faithful, in the civil rights movement we have a phrase about comforting the afflicted and afflicting the comfortable. This sounds about right. On some issues, of course, there are those who hope Francis does this to the man in the mirror (and wonder whether Pope Joan will be our only female pope).
Tuesday, August 25, 2015
Links for 08/25/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 08/25/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Saying to focus on all the issues, like the fraud of the RTL movement which often rejects ecoomic justice solutions, can be ignored. Its time for the Church to set an example for all employers with how it pays its workers.
The actions of this priest show the grace of the Cardinal who ordained him. Lets hope it works on the bishops too.
These buildigs are only a possession of the poor if they are allowed in, even if unwashed.
The actions of this priest show the grace of the Cardinal who ordained him. Lets hope it works on the bishops too.
These buildigs are only a possession of the poor if they are allowed in, even if unwashed.
How Pope Francis Challenges the Catholic Right | National Catholic Reporter
How Pope Francis Challenges the Catholic Right | National Catholic Reporter
by MSW. MGB: The traditionalists believe that preserving the message as passed to
them is their sinecure. Without that, if people think for themselves,
they have nothing of value. They also really believe that God is the
Ogre that he has to be to enforce all of these rules. Of course,
stressing forgiveness without examining whether the rules are correct is
kind of the coward’s way out in dealing with what God really wants for
us – which is happiness in this life as well as the next. As for Luke
16, that is bad proof texting – if you go literal you must add
“immorality is an exception.” So should spousal abuse, alcoholism, etc.
– even if it showed up after the marriage.
The Trads are tied
to a Magisterium, which is about their power, on the Natural Order,
which is a sophistry where even though God is not harmed by sin some
kind of metaphysical balance is thrown off. Pure imagination – but who
has the stones to get rid of both? They don’t let that morality is for
man, not God, period. Jesus is gentle and humble of heart, not as the
Christ but as God. The Trads are not gentle, at least as a group and
certainly not humble of heart. Especially about sex. Nuff said.
Americanism is not a phantom heresy, but it has nothing to do with the
military industrial complex. It has to do with our delightful freedom
of religion and the inability of the Church to impose morality under the
guise of religious power on everyone else. Of course, they are trying
with birth control, but this has nothing to do with Central Command
sending people to die in the Afghani meat grinder. Militarism is the
sin here and while the Trads can be on the wrong side, mostly they
cooperate with peace initiatives, at least among the bishops.
Mass declined because teenagers work on Sunday or Saturday night and
can’t make it to Mass. There is a bigger Sabbath problem here than Mass
– I know I was run ragged by all I had to do in my high school years.
Maybe school should close one day, Monday? With the Malls staying
closed?
The Commentariat’s views of Francis and Obama are
irrelevant. One good line that everyone sees and they waft away toward
the ash heap of history.
by MSW. MGB: The traditionalists believe that preserving the message as passed to
them is their sinecure. Without that, if people think for themselves,
they have nothing of value. They also really believe that God is the
Ogre that he has to be to enforce all of these rules. Of course,
stressing forgiveness without examining whether the rules are correct is
kind of the coward’s way out in dealing with what God really wants for
us – which is happiness in this life as well as the next. As for Luke
16, that is bad proof texting – if you go literal you must add
“immorality is an exception.” So should spousal abuse, alcoholism, etc.
– even if it showed up after the marriage.
The Trads are tied
to a Magisterium, which is about their power, on the Natural Order,
which is a sophistry where even though God is not harmed by sin some
kind of metaphysical balance is thrown off. Pure imagination – but who
has the stones to get rid of both? They don’t let that morality is for
man, not God, period. Jesus is gentle and humble of heart, not as the
Christ but as God. The Trads are not gentle, at least as a group and
certainly not humble of heart. Especially about sex. Nuff said.
Americanism is not a phantom heresy, but it has nothing to do with the
military industrial complex. It has to do with our delightful freedom
of religion and the inability of the Church to impose morality under the
guise of religious power on everyone else. Of course, they are trying
with birth control, but this has nothing to do with Central Command
sending people to die in the Afghani meat grinder. Militarism is the
sin here and while the Trads can be on the wrong side, mostly they
cooperate with peace initiatives, at least among the bishops.
Mass declined because teenagers work on Sunday or Saturday night and
can’t make it to Mass. There is a bigger Sabbath problem here than Mass
– I know I was run ragged by all I had to do in my high school years.
Maybe school should close one day, Monday? With the Malls staying
closed?
The Commentariat’s views of Francis and Obama are
irrelevant. One good line that everyone sees and they waft away toward
the ash heap of history.
Monday, August 24, 2015
How Pope Francis Challenges the Catholic Left | National Catholic Reporter
How Pope Francis Challenges the Catholic Left | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Left is not the appropriate term. Modernist is, especially about pelvic issues. That does not signify a lack of faith, but it rejects the idolization of the sexual act and in particular the male part of it (when in fact, billions of sperm are created and die frequently, used or not).
Modernism has a different aspect on abortion, as Catholic Modernists don’t approve of abortion (unless the fetus is doomed anyway on its own – and we fail to see how that is a problem), but we accept that much of the who-haw on this issue is about sexually controlling women, not protecting life. Nor do we respect those who say they respect life but don’t offer a program which will work. We object to being lectured to on how we vote by a movement that has no real plan other than get elected.
Some Modernists are against increasing population. Those don’t understand economics.
On marriage and divorce, we are baffled by those proof-texters who won’t allow divorce because Jesus said so, but won’t go deeper into the same text when Jesus talks about families being unbreakable as one flesh and how this can be easily applied to gay families.
This is not being a do-gooder, this is seeking the truth – especially in how women and gays are treated. This is not a good-dead for the day, it is resisting evil in curial robes. Curial robes which sometimes don’t join us in condemning a more equal wage for families, so the CEO and the Janitor can both feed, clothe, house and educate their kids with equal quality accommodations. Its not good works we seek, its justice. Its not sociology either.
Just because the Church is ancient does not mean that it has a license to live in the past. Not on Episcopal selection, not on women and not on diocesan governance or pastoral attention. That is not social science, it is reform. All of these things can be changed, they are not doctrine. A change in clerical culture is simply not sufficient here and Francis needs to realize it. The change is inevitable.
As for theology, seminary theology and university theology are and should be different. Indeed, the right to search where the Clergy do not want us to is the essence of Modernism. We have an opinion on the Devil and whether he exists or not as well. Of course, the question is not settled, but we will examine it.
We are not being snide, by the way, about the pro-life movement. There is very real fraud going on and it must be rooted out for the movement to have credibility at all. One need only look to the Planned Parenthood video to see how depraved the Movement has become (as miscarriages have the same procedures for extracting tissue for research and diagnoses). Comparing the outrage over this to the righteous outrage over sex abuse is the kind of false equivalency that you usually find on CNN.
We do love Communion, of course and many of us believe everyone should get it all the time. Give the Baptists Catholic Communion and they won’t be Baptists anymore. The reluctance to do so is sociology (group dynamics) and excess pietism. Its time to stop both threads on the Eucharist.
On Carnality, the problem is not that we don’t support teaching to keep people from enslaving themselves to sex, the problem is the pietism of the enterprise, as if God has a purity agenda for people that serves his interests over and above human psycho-sexual health. Again, this is a modernist change, not a liberal one. The fetishism of Catholic sexual teaching in days past is a nightmare that drives many young people out. Its is time to escape it and get those youth back. Health, by the way, is not an ideology. When gay young men suicide because of the messages they are receiving from Church and family, someone is teaching error and it’s not the Modernists. We will wrestle with these questions and with the Church leadership until we no longer have to, but make no mistake, we will age out the Trads.
Modernism has a different aspect on abortion, as Catholic Modernists don’t approve of abortion (unless the fetus is doomed anyway on its own – and we fail to see how that is a problem), but we accept that much of the who-haw on this issue is about sexually controlling women, not protecting life. Nor do we respect those who say they respect life but don’t offer a program which will work. We object to being lectured to on how we vote by a movement that has no real plan other than get elected.
Some Modernists are against increasing population. Those don’t understand economics.
On marriage and divorce, we are baffled by those proof-texters who won’t allow divorce because Jesus said so, but won’t go deeper into the same text when Jesus talks about families being unbreakable as one flesh and how this can be easily applied to gay families.
This is not being a do-gooder, this is seeking the truth – especially in how women and gays are treated. This is not a good-dead for the day, it is resisting evil in curial robes. Curial robes which sometimes don’t join us in condemning a more equal wage for families, so the CEO and the Janitor can both feed, clothe, house and educate their kids with equal quality accommodations. Its not good works we seek, its justice. Its not sociology either.
Just because the Church is ancient does not mean that it has a license to live in the past. Not on Episcopal selection, not on women and not on diocesan governance or pastoral attention. That is not social science, it is reform. All of these things can be changed, they are not doctrine. A change in clerical culture is simply not sufficient here and Francis needs to realize it. The change is inevitable.
As for theology, seminary theology and university theology are and should be different. Indeed, the right to search where the Clergy do not want us to is the essence of Modernism. We have an opinion on the Devil and whether he exists or not as well. Of course, the question is not settled, but we will examine it.
We are not being snide, by the way, about the pro-life movement. There is very real fraud going on and it must be rooted out for the movement to have credibility at all. One need only look to the Planned Parenthood video to see how depraved the Movement has become (as miscarriages have the same procedures for extracting tissue for research and diagnoses). Comparing the outrage over this to the righteous outrage over sex abuse is the kind of false equivalency that you usually find on CNN.
We do love Communion, of course and many of us believe everyone should get it all the time. Give the Baptists Catholic Communion and they won’t be Baptists anymore. The reluctance to do so is sociology (group dynamics) and excess pietism. Its time to stop both threads on the Eucharist.
On Carnality, the problem is not that we don’t support teaching to keep people from enslaving themselves to sex, the problem is the pietism of the enterprise, as if God has a purity agenda for people that serves his interests over and above human psycho-sexual health. Again, this is a modernist change, not a liberal one. The fetishism of Catholic sexual teaching in days past is a nightmare that drives many young people out. Its is time to escape it and get those youth back. Health, by the way, is not an ideology. When gay young men suicide because of the messages they are receiving from Church and family, someone is teaching error and it’s not the Modernists. We will wrestle with these questions and with the Church leadership until we no longer have to, but make no mistake, we will age out the Trads.
Links for 08/24/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 08/24/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: I would not call the Homily a barn burner, just what is appropriate for a new pastor over a flock (note that in biblical days, bishops werepastors, not medieval lordlings like today). I love the fact that his All Holiness sent representatives to this major event. Is
reconciliation with New Rome accelerating to its inevitable conclusions(loss of papal primacy claims) or what?
MSW at Cato? When will we see references to Daniel in the lion's den?
I hope that Craig gets a bill for his house being saved and offers to buy and destroy it by FEMA. No one needs to live in the forest nowadays
reconciliation with New Rome accelerating to its inevitable conclusions(loss of papal primacy claims) or what?
MSW at Cato? When will we see references to Daniel in the lion's den?
I hope that Craig gets a bill for his house being saved and offers to buy and destroy it by FEMA. No one needs to live in the forest nowadays
Friday, August 21, 2015
Links for 08/21/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 08/21/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Gerson is being funny, but when elites start pointing at enemies, the banal acceptance of totalitarianism is actually possible. Someone should ask Trump if he is at all familiar with Hannah Arendt.
Immigration should be one of those things decided based on law and justice, not public opinion. Sadly, it is mostly decided based on economic advantage for the people who bring you your chicken nuggets and your orange juice.
Lewis makes an interesting point. One wonders if Francis has read Hannah Arendt. More seriously, if Francis has us in the grip of popularity (and remember, Benedict co-wrote The Joy of the Gospel, then now is the time to scold – although at that point the magic was broken, much like when Jesus said to his hearers that they had to eat his flesh.
Raising the FICA cap is half the answer. The other half is to credit the employer contribution equally to each worker so that higher revenues don’t lead to much higher benefits for management and executives.
Immigration should be one of those things decided based on law and justice, not public opinion. Sadly, it is mostly decided based on economic advantage for the people who bring you your chicken nuggets and your orange juice.
Lewis makes an interesting point. One wonders if Francis has read Hannah Arendt. More seriously, if Francis has us in the grip of popularity (and remember, Benedict co-wrote The Joy of the Gospel, then now is the time to scold – although at that point the magic was broken, much like when Jesus said to his hearers that they had to eat his flesh.
Raising the FICA cap is half the answer. The other half is to credit the employer contribution equally to each worker so that higher revenues don’t lead to much higher benefits for management and executives.
Pope Francis is Coming, Part III | National Catholic Reporter
Pope Francis is Coming, Part III | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: The Holy Spirit has surprises. Francis is the vessel. That he is likely to have strong words on immigration is a blessing and a curse (on conservative politicians). Excellent. If he can enter from the south, it will top the Mass at the fence. I expect the congressional address to be in praise of social welfare spending and maybe eve what we call socialism. Double hurrah! (and I see no reason for him to measure his words, and I expect him to discuss abortion with Obama. Hopefully Obama will not engage in patronizing silence and will instead put on his constitutional law professor’s hat and explain why, whether desirable or not, is essential law. As for the bishops, they don’t have to like him, they have to either follow his example or expect to be replaced – and not with a cushy job in the Curia.
Laudato Si’ will be the show stopper. It may upset the right wing in this country more than any comments resembling socialism. Eco-socialism will be harder for them to take, but it is necessary unless we want the poor who live by the sea to have to tread water – or put them up in new and better digs. The responsibility to do the latter will be much more expensive than a carbon tax – but the right wing is not known for such forward thinking.
That Francis will have an interreligious event at Ground Zero is bold. It will be an affront to everyone who fought the “Ground Zero Mosque.” Good!
In Philly, Francis may just preach on the gospel of the day, but he got to pick the day. He knows he is entering failed marriage ground zero. Since I resemble that remark, I am looking for some hope. While he cannot show real solidarity with those in failed marriages, he can with prisoners just be being there. I hope this also provides a scold to Obama to accelerate clemency, regardless of any impact on Democratic Party candidates for the White House. On religious liberty, I hope he talks more about freedom of religion and delineates it from religious power. That would be a nice change.
The best part of this trip is that EWTN will be pre-empted by it. The worst is that they will comment on it – but that could prove interesting if the Pope says things that they don’t want to hear. Either way it could ruin them, as some will simply want straight reporting, not ideology, while other viewers will want red meat. Vive il Papa!
Laudato Si’ will be the show stopper. It may upset the right wing in this country more than any comments resembling socialism. Eco-socialism will be harder for them to take, but it is necessary unless we want the poor who live by the sea to have to tread water – or put them up in new and better digs. The responsibility to do the latter will be much more expensive than a carbon tax – but the right wing is not known for such forward thinking.
That Francis will have an interreligious event at Ground Zero is bold. It will be an affront to everyone who fought the “Ground Zero Mosque.” Good!
In Philly, Francis may just preach on the gospel of the day, but he got to pick the day. He knows he is entering failed marriage ground zero. Since I resemble that remark, I am looking for some hope. While he cannot show real solidarity with those in failed marriages, he can with prisoners just be being there. I hope this also provides a scold to Obama to accelerate clemency, regardless of any impact on Democratic Party candidates for the White House. On religious liberty, I hope he talks more about freedom of religion and delineates it from religious power. That would be a nice change.
The best part of this trip is that EWTN will be pre-empted by it. The worst is that they will comment on it – but that could prove interesting if the Pope says things that they don’t want to hear. Either way it could ruin them, as some will simply want straight reporting, not ideology, while other viewers will want red meat. Vive il Papa!
Thursday, August 20, 2015
Links for 08/20/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 08/20/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Bishop Flores use of the Newman quote justifying thinking outside the box is just what the Church needs, including and especially in the are of families. Gives me high hopes for the second Synod on the Family.
I always thought the Cathedral at Galway would be a good Seat for a Galatian Patriarch for the English and Gaelic speaking world. Now that would be Orthodox, resurrecting the old Galatian Church. How long do you think such a Church would take to ordain women? I suspect not long, including ordaining a Matriarch. You want an authoritative voice on life? Make it female.
People misunderstand the RFRA. It is supposed to be a safety valve against state governments restricting the religious freedom of individuals to practice. Making it an ethical check against civil rights of others should not be part of the deal. It should not be repealed, but it should be clarified - else it is the foot in the door for religious power, not religious freedom.
I always thought the Cathedral at Galway would be a good Seat for a Galatian Patriarch for the English and Gaelic speaking world. Now that would be Orthodox, resurrecting the old Galatian Church. How long do you think such a Church would take to ordain women? I suspect not long, including ordaining a Matriarch. You want an authoritative voice on life? Make it female.
People misunderstand the RFRA. It is supposed to be a safety valve against state governments restricting the religious freedom of individuals to practice. Making it an ethical check against civil rights of others should not be part of the deal. It should not be repealed, but it should be clarified - else it is the foot in the door for religious power, not religious freedom.
Pope Francis is Coming! Part II | National Catholic Reporter
Pope Francis is Coming! Part II | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Mercy, however, is not codependent. It must literally mean that some things we thought of as sinful really are not when taken in a natural law, rather than a religious or Jewish national identity point of view. Sin is what damages us, not what damages God (because you cannot damage God). The degree to which that happens is also important, as is the intent – even with abortion. Francis is not close to there, but I am not sure it’s his job to take us all the way there, but looking at the reality may take him there.
Francis is a pastor and not unacquainted with liberation theology. Hopefully he will be open to emerging economic thought on the Democratic Socialist side, which seemed to be OK with Benedict as well. He will certainly not endorse the Prosperity Gospel any time soon. I hope he reminds us that while Matthew 25 says we meet Jesus in the poor, the story of Cain and Abel means that when we meet the poor, we give them the first fruits, not the leavings.
Religion and the Gospel are about us, MSW is wrong on that point. Jesus did not suffer on the Cross to satisfy the Father but to experience the emptiness of human existence. Remember, Witness is another word for Martyr.
Process does matter, but whether it affects the outcome by giving the Traditionalists a bone in the second Synod is yet to be seen. I wonder if he is lobbying them personally. It is telling that the move of Burke had nothing to do with his remarks – he actually wanted Malta. Who knew?
Defanging the Curia might not be enough. Taking a red pen to the table of organization and abolishing Dicastries is the end of this trajectory.
Gesture is part of Martyrdom, it is a witness to what is important and does not let personal comfort get in the way of that witness. It’s not an act. What MSW is describing is not methodology, its authenticity.
I am not sure Francis will mention the Jansenists, although it would be interesting, although I suspect from Gary Wills that some of what we would call old Jesuits (from the first half of the 20th century) could give the Jansenists a run for their money. Glad to see they are gone and that Francis has restored the true nature of the Society.
Francis is a pastor and not unacquainted with liberation theology. Hopefully he will be open to emerging economic thought on the Democratic Socialist side, which seemed to be OK with Benedict as well. He will certainly not endorse the Prosperity Gospel any time soon. I hope he reminds us that while Matthew 25 says we meet Jesus in the poor, the story of Cain and Abel means that when we meet the poor, we give them the first fruits, not the leavings.
Religion and the Gospel are about us, MSW is wrong on that point. Jesus did not suffer on the Cross to satisfy the Father but to experience the emptiness of human existence. Remember, Witness is another word for Martyr.
Process does matter, but whether it affects the outcome by giving the Traditionalists a bone in the second Synod is yet to be seen. I wonder if he is lobbying them personally. It is telling that the move of Burke had nothing to do with his remarks – he actually wanted Malta. Who knew?
Defanging the Curia might not be enough. Taking a red pen to the table of organization and abolishing Dicastries is the end of this trajectory.
Gesture is part of Martyrdom, it is a witness to what is important and does not let personal comfort get in the way of that witness. It’s not an act. What MSW is describing is not methodology, its authenticity.
I am not sure Francis will mention the Jansenists, although it would be interesting, although I suspect from Gary Wills that some of what we would call old Jesuits (from the first half of the 20th century) could give the Jansenists a run for their money. Glad to see they are gone and that Francis has restored the true nature of the Society.
Wednesday, August 19, 2015
Links for 08/19/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 08/19/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Jerusalem is a problem because those who want it only for Zion ignore what the Torah says about welcoming the stranger and alien. Not all Palestinians are Beduins and Egyptians by ancestry. Some are Saaritan with a right to stay or return. Until they do, the Ark of the Covenant shall remain lost and with it the Holy of Holies.
It seems rather bad form for one magazine to scavange another. Still, its why I prefer the Nation.
Catholic Charities has no flexibility with employee law and they do have a right to opt out of contracts that mandate gay couples be allowed to adopt, even when they are the primary provider in a jurisidiction. Some of us just wish they would not. It is not the marriage piece that offends their sensibilities (and it does not offend God), it is the sex between the parents (as if you can find time for having sex with a young child). The question of the legality of the sex is answered and research is contributing to whether or not it is just different and not abberent.
It seems rather bad form for one magazine to scavange another. Still, its why I prefer the Nation.
Catholic Charities has no flexibility with employee law and they do have a right to opt out of contracts that mandate gay couples be allowed to adopt, even when they are the primary provider in a jurisidiction. Some of us just wish they would not. It is not the marriage piece that offends their sensibilities (and it does not offend God), it is the sex between the parents (as if you can find time for having sex with a young child). The question of the legality of the sex is answered and research is contributing to whether or not it is just different and not abberent.
Pope Francis is Coming! Part 1 | National Catholic Reporter
Pope Francis is Coming! Part 1 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Francis wants the Chruch to preach the Gospel, or Good News, as he preaches it. Curial politics no longer cuts the mustard. Still, the spirit of the Gospel is more humanistic -for man - rather than theistic - for God - than most realize. That is the Modernists or Chatholic Left position. I don't suppose we are that far apart. If the Modernists cite Christ rather than simply new science, in this endeavor, it will bring us closer to Francis and Francis to us.
Tuesday, August 18, 2015
Links for 08/18/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 08/18/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: The whole reason no birthright came up was to stop immigration reform from happening. The powers that be - who have food picked and processed would lose money if all workers were legal, could challenge wage theft and low wages, unsafe working conditions and join a union. Very bad for the bottom line. That this stuff keeps going is a testament to our addiction to cheap food.
Congrats to Steve on taking over the Late Night program. I wonder if he will have to change his schtick?
The best analysis of what makes an environmentalist is Risk and Culture. Egalitarians are the most environmental (and Mormons are more egalitarian than you think), although many are secular many others are fervernt believers, like Francis.
Congrats to Steve on taking over the Late Night program. I wonder if he will have to change his schtick?
The best analysis of what makes an environmentalist is Risk and Culture. Egalitarians are the most environmental (and Mormons are more egalitarian than you think), although many are secular many others are fervernt believers, like Francis.
Trump's Nativist Bile - And Those Who Like It | National Catholic Reporter
Trump's Nativist Bile - And Those Who Like It | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Trump is taking things a bit far, but he is apparently bipolar so it is expected. In the extreme case of his winning the White House, most of this will never pass any Congress and if it does, won't pass SCOTUS scrutiny. Trump is appealing to the masses who agree with him - he won't be changing minds, although if people secretly hold these views they may publicly agree (keep your enemies closer) or if they are ambitious, may mouth such beleifs and thwart Trump later. We live in interesting times.
Monday, August 17, 2015
Links for 08/17/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 08/17/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Francis will change few minds, but he will strenghten some beliefs and that is important.
I am not sure how the extraordinary and ordinary are that different anymore, given the new translation. That is either good or it is frightening. The Tridentine has better clothes and a more solemn and mysterious feel - hardly the intimate dinner of the Last Supper.
The CPP is a lovely effort, but it is the Bishops who need to learn their place, not the theologians.
I am not sure how the extraordinary and ordinary are that different anymore, given the new translation. That is either good or it is frightening. The Tridentine has better clothes and a more solemn and mysterious feel - hardly the intimate dinner of the Last Supper.
The CPP is a lovely effort, but it is the Bishops who need to learn their place, not the theologians.
Contra Samuel Gregg | National Catholic Reporter
Contra Samuel Gregg | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Someone tell Gregg that divine revelation is not knowable, merely our understanding of it. Indeed, in Jesus day, the divine revelation on abortion was that it was to be used to prove adultery in the husband has found his wife pregnant and it is not by him. This is why Joseph not referring Mary to the Law and Jesus not letting the adulterous woman be stoned were acts of divine mercy.
The current teaching on abortion is the product of reason, not revelation. We can find flaws in this reason, especially in those rare instances where an abortion or early induction would be beneficial to the mother and take nothing from a fetus who was doomed. I see no intrinsic evil here and will argue the argument boldly, because the Church is wrong to try to suppress the truth.
What Gregg is objecting too is not being wishy-washy on evil, but being wishy-washy on the deal between the pro-life movement and the Republican Party. That deal does not come from God, precisely because it forecloses solutions which involve rewarding women for keeping their children. That is not bribery – all mothers deserve such security. It is not charity either. It is justice and it justifies tax policies the right-to-lifers hate – and that lack of justice is an intrinsic evil.
The current law on abortion is nested in the constitution and it depends on the personhood rights of the unborn. Of course, changing that rubric has consequences that come regardless of what the movement wants, which is why I continue to assert that the movement is a sham – and as you recall the Decalogue includes a prohibition called “Thou shalt not defraud.” If that is an intrinsic evil the movement has some explaining to do. Sadly, the bishops seem more complicit then questioning – and that is a tragedy for the Church.
The current teaching on abortion is the product of reason, not revelation. We can find flaws in this reason, especially in those rare instances where an abortion or early induction would be beneficial to the mother and take nothing from a fetus who was doomed. I see no intrinsic evil here and will argue the argument boldly, because the Church is wrong to try to suppress the truth.
What Gregg is objecting too is not being wishy-washy on evil, but being wishy-washy on the deal between the pro-life movement and the Republican Party. That deal does not come from God, precisely because it forecloses solutions which involve rewarding women for keeping their children. That is not bribery – all mothers deserve such security. It is not charity either. It is justice and it justifies tax policies the right-to-lifers hate – and that lack of justice is an intrinsic evil.
The current law on abortion is nested in the constitution and it depends on the personhood rights of the unborn. Of course, changing that rubric has consequences that come regardless of what the movement wants, which is why I continue to assert that the movement is a sham – and as you recall the Decalogue includes a prohibition called “Thou shalt not defraud.” If that is an intrinsic evil the movement has some explaining to do. Sadly, the bishops seem more complicit then questioning – and that is a tragedy for the Church.
Friday, August 14, 2015
Links for 08/14/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 08/14/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: The story of the Incarnation is essential for the abandonment on the Cross to make sense, as does Jesus’ receipt of the story from His mother and his understanding of Scripture providing his most profound revelation (remember what he did on the road to Emmaus) – his heart was burning his entire life and the fire went out when he gave his mother to John to look after. The point is, Christ is both all in this and his all is not about him jealously guarding his creation, but instead in his profound care for our welfare and his love for us.
I disagree with Robert. If we treat families justly, there will be more prosperity and personal opportunity. If we build cooperative workplaces, that opportunity will manifest itself in paid education for parents and young adults (both in terms of tuition and living stipends). Sadly, Catholic pro-lifers as well as the Evangelical kind decry such efforts as both socialism and a lack of responsibility for money and, in the long run, sex. The usual term is pay to play and it always relates to women or to disapproval of men who cannot, for whatever reason, bring home an adequate income. This is not about approach, it requires conversion and speaking in prophesy very specifically about moral evils, again on the right. No wonder they try to hide behind a medical tragedy that they encourage with their sin of avarice (they don’t like to pay taxes, boo hoo) that is, by the way, declining each year. Individuality is not the cause, selfishness is – and they are not the same thing.
The nuns taught me to not pollute my eyes with filth, so no Donald response.
I disagree with Robert. If we treat families justly, there will be more prosperity and personal opportunity. If we build cooperative workplaces, that opportunity will manifest itself in paid education for parents and young adults (both in terms of tuition and living stipends). Sadly, Catholic pro-lifers as well as the Evangelical kind decry such efforts as both socialism and a lack of responsibility for money and, in the long run, sex. The usual term is pay to play and it always relates to women or to disapproval of men who cannot, for whatever reason, bring home an adequate income. This is not about approach, it requires conversion and speaking in prophesy very specifically about moral evils, again on the right. No wonder they try to hide behind a medical tragedy that they encourage with their sin of avarice (they don’t like to pay taxes, boo hoo) that is, by the way, declining each year. Individuality is not the cause, selfishness is – and they are not the same thing.
The nuns taught me to not pollute my eyes with filth, so no Donald response.
Slippery Slopes vs. Faith, Hope, Love
Slippery Slopes vs. Faith, Hope, Love by MSW. MGB: Moralists always believe that theirs is the worst time ever, which is usually a clue that Jesus will be returning soon (so look busy). This has been the case in Christianity since John of Patmos wrote the Revelation, largely as a scold against non-Judaizing Pauline Christianity. Note that John was wrong on all points and the Messianic Christian movement (Jews for Jesus) is few. Silk is correct, things are better. Indeed, when things were better during the Pax Romana, the real Messiah lived very publicly and was killed without notice, though he fulfilled prophesy as he understood it.
King Philip’s war happened because the colonists looked militarily week (like the Ukranians do now), that the soldiers fought valiantly is a statement to their strategy and courage, not their repentence.
As for those who don’t like Francis, many of us consider it a golden age if they are discomfited We like what we heard of St. John XXIII as well. They still believe God is an Ogre to be placated, not the lover of mankind that is worthy of our faith when we are not worthy of His. The answer is to be less physically comfortable, not to somehow add our sufferings to his, which is impossible, but to add his sufferings to ours. Believe me, it is a distinction with a difference.
I suspect that those who offer condemnation to this generation will not appreciate such a difference or their need to follow Christ in this matter. That is holiness, not the personal avoidance of sin or the obsession with personal salvation, one’s state of graced or any such nonsense. One who has no such worries would be the ideal exorcist.
King Philip’s war happened because the colonists looked militarily week (like the Ukranians do now), that the soldiers fought valiantly is a statement to their strategy and courage, not their repentence.
As for those who don’t like Francis, many of us consider it a golden age if they are discomfited We like what we heard of St. John XXIII as well. They still believe God is an Ogre to be placated, not the lover of mankind that is worthy of our faith when we are not worthy of His. The answer is to be less physically comfortable, not to somehow add our sufferings to his, which is impossible, but to add his sufferings to ours. Believe me, it is a distinction with a difference.
I suspect that those who offer condemnation to this generation will not appreciate such a difference or their need to follow Christ in this matter. That is holiness, not the personal avoidance of sin or the obsession with personal salvation, one’s state of graced or any such nonsense. One who has no such worries would be the ideal exorcist.
Thursday, August 13, 2015
Links for 08/13/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 08/13/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: That there is some distictly ordered code for an orderly society outside of Israel during the exile and in the imperial period is news to me. Jesus said that his morality was easy and its burden light, that he was gentle and humble of heart - which essentially means that morality is for us, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, which all claim (not just the hierarchy). Indeed, the Patriarchs and Judges would have blanched at any formal government ordering that benefited the worthies of the chruch-state establishment, having escaped from the God-King Pharoh and overthrown the God-King of Canaan. If morality is for us and not for God, it can change as we know more about ourselves. You must ask yourself, who does the reluctance to change benefit?
John Allen has to be leaving something else. No abandonned spouse is prohibited from Communion unless they also remarry. I hope the bishop in question did not think otherwise. Even then, they should be free to approach the rail, as should abused spouses and spouses of active alcoholics or adulterers. Those who are on the abusing end, however, should be banned from Communion and further marriage, permitted reentry only if forgiven by the original spouse (who is granted divorce, enough of the annulment ruse). While there is some question on process, including adding a memo to the baptismal record of why the offending spouse cannot marry again, that process should not impinge on the damaged spouse.
The yoga report is interesting. I know of many who want to do "Christian yoga and meditation." I would say that getting into the Zen or Yogic spirit of things is useful and not an abandonment of one's Christianity (unless it was weak already). The pagan imagery is not about other gods, as those other gods are human archetypes. Rome needs to get over that examinations of these characteristics can be useful and healthy, provided that they are not used as a cudgel by a religious government to violate the rights of non-practitioners of the sanctioned religion.
Interesting news about why Pope Francis is coming to the U.S. from the Hackett interview. Its all about the upcoming trip and how Francis loves Barack.
John Allen has to be leaving something else. No abandonned spouse is prohibited from Communion unless they also remarry. I hope the bishop in question did not think otherwise. Even then, they should be free to approach the rail, as should abused spouses and spouses of active alcoholics or adulterers. Those who are on the abusing end, however, should be banned from Communion and further marriage, permitted reentry only if forgiven by the original spouse (who is granted divorce, enough of the annulment ruse). While there is some question on process, including adding a memo to the baptismal record of why the offending spouse cannot marry again, that process should not impinge on the damaged spouse.
The yoga report is interesting. I know of many who want to do "Christian yoga and meditation." I would say that getting into the Zen or Yogic spirit of things is useful and not an abandonment of one's Christianity (unless it was weak already). The pagan imagery is not about other gods, as those other gods are human archetypes. Rome needs to get over that examinations of these characteristics can be useful and healthy, provided that they are not used as a cudgel by a religious government to violate the rights of non-practitioners of the sanctioned religion.
Interesting news about why Pope Francis is coming to the U.S. from the Hackett interview. Its all about the upcoming trip and how Francis loves Barack.
Cultural Engagement or Culture War? | National Catholic Reporter
Cultural Engagement or Culture War? | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Bravo to Archbishop Cupich for continuing in the tradition of Bernardin. I hope he gets his red had sooner than later. Of course, if he were really honest, he would admit that PPUSA does not traffic in fetal parts, it donates them for research, whether they were gathered due to an abortion or a miscarriage. Indeed, so called “normal” obstetricians have the same concerns when harvesting tissue. This film was a stunt, not a revelation.
On the spectrum, by the way, ignoring the poor is about as bad as it gets. Take on that abortion is a symptom of poverty and that those who perpetuate it for economic or political gain are as responsible for abortion as those who are sure making it illegal is a bad and a largely constitutionally impossible venture. Chaput needs to realize that he is on the wrong side of this and he won’t be getting a red hat any time soon.
The pro-life movement is stuck. Lies run their course and theirs has. I would love to PPUSA defunded too, with every person having single payer healthcare instead, using it at PPUSA if that is their preference. The best way to not have them do that is to give families adequate gelt for each child, say $1,000 per month per child. Not wanting too is not pro-life. If the movement wants a spartk, it should take on a living wage (which like the Bread of Life Gospel, will clear the room of those who equate abortion with sex and women, not real concern for the unborn). The Church can do two things to show it is serious. Ordain women and pay that $1000 a month per child bonus, even without tax support. Of course, the radical pro-life play would be not to stop suggesting legislation but to get out of electoral mode – no more 40 days of life or sermons on inherent evil and Faithful Citizenship. Nothing. Again, it would clear the room.
The problem with abortion, by the way, is not the culture. It is why women confess their abortions tearfully and go to Project Rachel for support. The problem is that the movement is about politics, call it intrinsic corruption, and it is unwilling to admit what is wrong with its own argument.
That Cupich and Chaput are lightning rods says everything to do with the partisans who complain about them, who love to hate either one, politically of course. Like politicians, most bishops are very nice people up close and personal, but they still seem to play into their own images. Of course, EnergyStar is a George W. Bush program, so I am not sure why Hahn is so upset.
On the spectrum, by the way, ignoring the poor is about as bad as it gets. Take on that abortion is a symptom of poverty and that those who perpetuate it for economic or political gain are as responsible for abortion as those who are sure making it illegal is a bad and a largely constitutionally impossible venture. Chaput needs to realize that he is on the wrong side of this and he won’t be getting a red hat any time soon.
The pro-life movement is stuck. Lies run their course and theirs has. I would love to PPUSA defunded too, with every person having single payer healthcare instead, using it at PPUSA if that is their preference. The best way to not have them do that is to give families adequate gelt for each child, say $1,000 per month per child. Not wanting too is not pro-life. If the movement wants a spartk, it should take on a living wage (which like the Bread of Life Gospel, will clear the room of those who equate abortion with sex and women, not real concern for the unborn). The Church can do two things to show it is serious. Ordain women and pay that $1000 a month per child bonus, even without tax support. Of course, the radical pro-life play would be not to stop suggesting legislation but to get out of electoral mode – no more 40 days of life or sermons on inherent evil and Faithful Citizenship. Nothing. Again, it would clear the room.
The problem with abortion, by the way, is not the culture. It is why women confess their abortions tearfully and go to Project Rachel for support. The problem is that the movement is about politics, call it intrinsic corruption, and it is unwilling to admit what is wrong with its own argument.
That Cupich and Chaput are lightning rods says everything to do with the partisans who complain about them, who love to hate either one, politically of course. Like politicians, most bishops are very nice people up close and personal, but they still seem to play into their own images. Of course, EnergyStar is a George W. Bush program, so I am not sure why Hahn is so upset.
Wednesday, August 12, 2015
Links for 08/12/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 08/12/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: I am sure the Archbishop wants us all in confession for our politics. See what I said on Kuyper and cheap grace. He wants cheap forgiveness, but the problem is that we are not the ones in error. HE IS! He needs to go to confession, as well as any hospital personnel that ever turned a domestic partner, now spouse, out of their spouse’s hospital room. His Penance is to celebrate gay weddings in his diocese and hire gay married staff, treating them with full dignity.
Unless Kasich starts to condemn capitalism as it now is practiced, he could only be the Pope’s choice in the GOP and only as the lesser of many evils. In reality, I suspect Francis is feeling the Bern!
People can believe what they want, but they have to follow employment law when it comes to treating spouses with equality – whether employers, justice of the peace, or tax collectors. Cake bakers too. They are not implicated in what they perceive as sin – which is not the marriage – that’s a bumper sticker – but the sex. The latter is none of their business, even if you are selling lubricants. That is even the Catholic objection, but it does not yet realize it lost at Lawrence v. Texas. Too late now, gay sex in private is a matter the legislature cannot touch, period. That is the real argument and the constitution is very clear in the 9th Amendment. We cannot force gay Catholic or other religious marriages, although one can argue with a straight face that gay unions where functionality and an exchange of vows exist are indeed sacramental. It is, however, up to the members of each Church to force the clergy to behave correctly. And yes, there are ways and they should be pursued. In short, Rusty and Ryan and Robert are all wrong.
Unless Kasich starts to condemn capitalism as it now is practiced, he could only be the Pope’s choice in the GOP and only as the lesser of many evils. In reality, I suspect Francis is feeling the Bern!
People can believe what they want, but they have to follow employment law when it comes to treating spouses with equality – whether employers, justice of the peace, or tax collectors. Cake bakers too. They are not implicated in what they perceive as sin – which is not the marriage – that’s a bumper sticker – but the sex. The latter is none of their business, even if you are selling lubricants. That is even the Catholic objection, but it does not yet realize it lost at Lawrence v. Texas. Too late now, gay sex in private is a matter the legislature cannot touch, period. That is the real argument and the constitution is very clear in the 9th Amendment. We cannot force gay Catholic or other religious marriages, although one can argue with a straight face that gay unions where functionality and an exchange of vows exist are indeed sacramental. It is, however, up to the members of each Church to force the clergy to behave correctly. And yes, there are ways and they should be pursued. In short, Rusty and Ryan and Robert are all wrong.
Abraham Kuyper, Part III | National Catholic Reporter
Abraham Kuyper, Part III | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: To continue, I like that Kuyper attacked the smugness of the saved – back when Calvinism was fresh and new, Paul was taken literally and one had show deeds as a proof of personal salvation. This obsession with going to Heaven rather than building the Kingdom of God on earth has dogged Christianity for millennia, but it is perhaps worst in some Calvinists, although the advocates for frequent confession do come in a close second. Note that the latter are Catholic Trads.
Note that predestination is one of those moral positions that assumes God is an Ogre whose arbitrary nature is part of the deal. Gotta disagree with that, including when such stances are used by the pro-life movement – which is where Calvin and the bishops meet. Kuyper hits the social nature of election right on the head, too, then and now, Catholic and Protestazant.
The ultimate discussion of predestination is found in Christianity, the First 3000 Years by Anglican priest and historian Diarmaid MacCulluch. It simply sings.
On the unity thing, Christ also said that those who are not against me are with me. Those who exclude such people are violating unity, not the dissenters. Kuyper’s way of dealing with individuals reminds me of Francis too, who will even be nice to Burke when Burke is not apparently deserving of it.
Any ecumenicist should read this book, especially those in the pro-life movement and especially because it will make them squirm.
On the Sphere Sovereignty quote with Christ calling everything “Mine!” No, that is a misunderstanding. He does so not to desire to turn us all to angels, but to have us live as happily human (and humanistic as He is) in this life. Live like the next life is none of our business just yet and you will “risk impurity” just exactly where it is appropriate.
Note that predestination is one of those moral positions that assumes God is an Ogre whose arbitrary nature is part of the deal. Gotta disagree with that, including when such stances are used by the pro-life movement – which is where Calvin and the bishops meet. Kuyper hits the social nature of election right on the head, too, then and now, Catholic and Protestazant.
The ultimate discussion of predestination is found in Christianity, the First 3000 Years by Anglican priest and historian Diarmaid MacCulluch. It simply sings.
On the unity thing, Christ also said that those who are not against me are with me. Those who exclude such people are violating unity, not the dissenters. Kuyper’s way of dealing with individuals reminds me of Francis too, who will even be nice to Burke when Burke is not apparently deserving of it.
Any ecumenicist should read this book, especially those in the pro-life movement and especially because it will make them squirm.
On the Sphere Sovereignty quote with Christ calling everything “Mine!” No, that is a misunderstanding. He does so not to desire to turn us all to angels, but to have us live as happily human (and humanistic as He is) in this life. Live like the next life is none of our business just yet and you will “risk impurity” just exactly where it is appropriate.
Abraham Kuyper, Part II | National Catholic Reporter
Abraham Kuyper, Part II | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: I would call Kuyper a Christian Democrat rather than a Calvinist (though he was one), due to the use of the term by others who have more in common with social Darwinism than Darwin himself (how ironic is that?) Still, there was something rotten in the workplace and Kuyper was as attuned to it as the Internationale and the Georgists. His participation in and incorporation of an anti-revolutionary party is interesting. The way revolution was really held at bay was mass consumerism. Time and again, if you throw higher wages at workers they de-radicalize. My bet was that this was not the intent of the ARP, but it was the result.
Sphere Sovereignty is what Kuyper is known for. If only some of the fundamentalists would honor it. Or the USCCB. Of course, each might say that to the Supreme Court. As good as Sphere Sovereignty sounds, all things really are connected – if only because they all affect the people. I am a person always, whether a person shopping, working, praying or studying. Everything affects everything and one day it will all be rationalized into a whole, hopefully a whole that is democratic. Sphere Sovereignty is only necessary when you don’t trust the common people and they must have elites appointed over them, in which case spheres make sense, especially when you source sin as the font of human suffering, rather than simply relating sin to a punishing God Ogre – would that this concept had died in that era!
Sphere Sovereignty is what Kuyper is known for. If only some of the fundamentalists would honor it. Or the USCCB. Of course, each might say that to the Supreme Court. As good as Sphere Sovereignty sounds, all things really are connected – if only because they all affect the people. I am a person always, whether a person shopping, working, praying or studying. Everything affects everything and one day it will all be rationalized into a whole, hopefully a whole that is democratic. Sphere Sovereignty is only necessary when you don’t trust the common people and they must have elites appointed over them, in which case spheres make sense, especially when you source sin as the font of human suffering, rather than simply relating sin to a punishing God Ogre – would that this concept had died in that era!
Abraham Kuyper, Part I | National Catholic Reporter
Abraham Kuyper, Part I | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Kuyper is the spiritual Godfather of the Christian Democratic movement. The Center for Public Justice is the presence of that movement in the United States. While it is unapologetically Calvinist, it is not the same kind of Calvinism practiced by the Southern Baptist Convention. Essentially, Kuyper saved Calvinism from selfishness and its adherence to capitalism and materialism in all things. Of course, that means he is also no social democrat. I wonder how he would react, however, to the existentialists. Probably the same way. I also like the quote about Modernism. He is right about that and the Trads are oh, so wrong in their pursuit to call all change error. The term addiction to doubt is not meant to apply to agnostics, but to uncompromising Trads – with their gold and red markers.
The rejection of the Holiness movement is interesting as it relates to those who would use the law to force social holiness on those they approve of, as well as the same practice in the Churches (both Evangelical and Catholic). There was no cheap grace for Kuyper, and I doubt he would have much nice to say about frequent confession and the Catholic preoccupation with the state of grace, usually over sexual matters. His work seems to point to Grace as the essential element of both initial and continuing salvation. Note to MSW. Kuyper talked about the Holy Spirit, not the Church, as the giver of grace.
The Reformed movement is fascinating and I suspect we will be discussing more of it tomorrow. Indeed, the entire Emergent Church is the latest fruit of this vine.
The rejection of the Holiness movement is interesting as it relates to those who would use the law to force social holiness on those they approve of, as well as the same practice in the Churches (both Evangelical and Catholic). There was no cheap grace for Kuyper, and I doubt he would have much nice to say about frequent confession and the Catholic preoccupation with the state of grace, usually over sexual matters. His work seems to point to Grace as the essential element of both initial and continuing salvation. Note to MSW. Kuyper talked about the Holy Spirit, not the Church, as the giver of grace.
The Reformed movement is fascinating and I suspect we will be discussing more of it tomorrow. Indeed, the entire Emergent Church is the latest fruit of this vine.
Friday, August 7, 2015
Links for 08/07/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 08/07/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Religious Liberty as lately discussed is an attempt at religious power over religious employees and society at large. It does not pass the smell test. That goes doubly true for FADA, which would privilege religious groups over individuals. We tried that in the 1950s and grew out of it.
Kirsten Powers does not understand the rule of law. A baby may exist earlier than legally recognized, but that is because recognizing first trimester embryoes is too complicated for the law to deal with once due process and privacy enter the picture. That is not a Democratic view, its law.
Kirsten Powers does not understand the rule of law. A baby may exist earlier than legally recognized, but that is because recognizing first trimester embryoes is too complicated for the law to deal with once due process and privacy enter the picture. That is not a Democratic view, its law.
The GOP's First Debate: Who Won & Who Lost? | National Catholic Reporter
The GOP's First Debate: Who Won & Who Lost? | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Anyone who did not watch won the debate, although judging by his performance, I suggest Trump's loved ones use this as an occassion to get him into treatment for Bipolar Disorder - Type I. His ranting is Mania.
The winner is the one the press says won. That story won't be gelled until the middle of next week. Still, until people start racking up delegates, its largely entertainment, so FoxNews did win.
The winner is the one the press says won. That story won't be gelled until the middle of next week. Still, until people start racking up delegates, its largely entertainment, so FoxNews did win.
Thursday, August 6, 2015
Links for 08/06/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 08/06/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Paul VI did much for the Church and defended papal power well, which usually gets someone canonized - although John Paul the Great was a doubter at Vatican II and would probably not allow a canonization to go forth. More's the pity. Humanae Vitae will not be regarded 100 years ago as anything but bad biology, although that does not seem to matter - Pius X and his band of informers would never be canonized today. Pius XI likely deserves it.
Archbishop Wenski is the right man in the right place, with a knowledge that he and his flock will not be able to tread water when Miami becomes part of the Gulf of Mexico.
The IRS was never going to revoke tax exemptions for Churches on gay marriage. Of course, this does not prevent the Department of Labor from going after those Churches who essentially abuse gay married employees. The new religious freedom (really religious power) regulations were long expected to be non-controversial. The GOP attained its prize, the Senate, so you won't hear about them again. Get ready for a new war on women to be declared by NOW any time soon.
Archbishop Wenski is the right man in the right place, with a knowledge that he and his flock will not be able to tread water when Miami becomes part of the Gulf of Mexico.
The IRS was never going to revoke tax exemptions for Churches on gay marriage. Of course, this does not prevent the Department of Labor from going after those Churches who essentially abuse gay married employees. The new religious freedom (really religious power) regulations were long expected to be non-controversial. The GOP attained its prize, the Senate, so you won't hear about them again. Get ready for a new war on women to be declared by NOW any time soon.
Tonight's GOP Debate: The Trump Show | National Catholic Reporter
Tonight's GOP Debate: The Trump Show | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Trump is more Herman Cain than Mitt Romney. I am not wasting my time tonite on this debate. I will be binge watching Orphan Black (if I have not moved into a homeless shelter - anything not to pollute my mind with GOP crap). The fact that the GOP voters love a lud mouthed plutocrat is all you need to know about them.
Wednesday, August 5, 2015
Links for 08/05/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 08/05/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Happy Feast Day to the Basilica constructed with the money of the poor to honor a woman who stood for both the poor and liberation. Irony reigns.
That Berkowitz would quibble with any critical analysis of zionism is no shock, or that MSW would agree with the quibbling - or more appropriate, kibbitzing. The author probably could have swapped out India for the Soviet Union, with Stalin being the fundamentalist following Lenin's realpolitick.
I don't read or trust anything Breitbart. Any time spent on anything they write cannot be reclaimed.
That Berkowitz would quibble with any critical analysis of zionism is no shock, or that MSW would agree with the quibbling - or more appropriate, kibbitzing. The author probably could have swapped out India for the Soviet Union, with Stalin being the fundamentalist following Lenin's realpolitick.
I don't read or trust anything Breitbart. Any time spent on anything they write cannot be reclaimed.
Faith vs. Ideology | National Catholic Reporter
Faith vs. Ideology | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: When it was first spoken, the Kingdom of God was ideological in the way we know it now, as well as transcendant. It can be both and so can Francis. This is what scares both the Trads and the Conservatives. The tone, of course, comes because they are finally feeling a much needed consciousness of guilt, even if it is below the surface. The Hound of Heaven is after them and they are not surrendering quietly.
Bringing Christ to the revolution, as I do, is not only good PR, but it forms a better understanding for all whose side Jesus is on - and its not the side of exploitation. Revolution is hard work, and the Bread of Life is needed to make an impossible journey possible - and indeed make its success inevitable. The Gospel is a bold statement. It would have helped the movement then and will now, even a movement now essentially led in the US by a Jewish atheist from Vermont.
Bringing Christ to the revolution, as I do, is not only good PR, but it forms a better understanding for all whose side Jesus is on - and its not the side of exploitation. Revolution is hard work, and the Bread of Life is needed to make an impossible journey possible - and indeed make its success inevitable. The Gospel is a bold statement. It would have helped the movement then and will now, even a movement now essentially led in the US by a Jewish atheist from Vermont.
Tuesday, August 4, 2015
Links for 08/04/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 08/04/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: Cardus should read and incorporate Douglas and Wildavsky's Risk and Culture, although if he did there would be nothing left for him to say. Of course, I have the University of Waterloo copy of Culture and Social Theory, which was sold to me on Amazon. Risk and Culture, which explains the egalitarian, anti-capitalist roots of the environmental movement and its sectarian tendencies is right in with this thesis. There is likely still enough to do to justify a dissertation incorproating their work.
Statistics are suspect when we talk of the middle class. It is better to speak of the working class and the middle class. Back when we were all living on cheap credit, both of these groups did well. Now, not so much. The middle class is still mostly up - although many have fallen through the cracks or retired early. They are the ones Francis needs to challenge, more for their politics than their consumption. The working class is under attack - and Francis needs to focus on this big time.
Its fairly hard to out-life the GOP in a Democratic big tent if a war on women theme is at play. Of course, the GOP does not like it if we do (especially on the economic side) because they want the movement for themselves for electoral purposes (not to actually stop abortions).
Statistics are suspect when we talk of the middle class. It is better to speak of the working class and the middle class. Back when we were all living on cheap credit, both of these groups did well. Now, not so much. The middle class is still mostly up - although many have fallen through the cracks or retired early. They are the ones Francis needs to challenge, more for their politics than their consumption. The working class is under attack - and Francis needs to focus on this big time.
Its fairly hard to out-life the GOP in a Democratic big tent if a war on women theme is at play. Of course, the GOP does not like it if we do (especially on the economic side) because they want the movement for themselves for electoral purposes (not to actually stop abortions).
Planned Parenthood: The Videos & the Vote | National Catholic Reporter
Planned Parenthood: The Videos & the Vote | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: This vote is probably the beginning of the end of the 15 minutes of fame of the producers. Ironically, what is done regarding aborted fetuses is similar to what is done regarding those who miscarried late in the pregnancy. While their moral status is important, their legal status is the question.
Abortion is as much a rule of law question as a libertarian one - and the pro-life movement has no taste for answering it. The Susan B. Anthony Fund, the USCCB Pro-Life Activities staff and the National Right to Life Committee sadly are not a moral force, they are an electoral one. Like John Stewart said about FoxNews, its a design feature, not a flaw.
When the Bishops quit talking about pregnancies and force pro-lifers to start talking about supporting families all the way to maturity, we will know that they have turned the corner to the moral question. They also have to start by having all Catholic employers pay a living wage of $1000 per month per additional child or I simply won't take anything the Church says seriously during its 40 days for life.
Do what I ask and the contraception issue goes away and abortion will become so rare that PPUSA will shutter its windows and door - not because we somehow become disgusted about the procedure. That is like being disgusted with sodomy. It has no ethical force. Solve the legal question and the economic question or the issue will be seen as part of a war on sexuality. Hint: want to make a profound statement this is not about women? Ordain some. This is why the Trads can't do anything on these issues.
Abortion is as much a rule of law question as a libertarian one - and the pro-life movement has no taste for answering it. The Susan B. Anthony Fund, the USCCB Pro-Life Activities staff and the National Right to Life Committee sadly are not a moral force, they are an electoral one. Like John Stewart said about FoxNews, its a design feature, not a flaw.
When the Bishops quit talking about pregnancies and force pro-lifers to start talking about supporting families all the way to maturity, we will know that they have turned the corner to the moral question. They also have to start by having all Catholic employers pay a living wage of $1000 per month per additional child or I simply won't take anything the Church says seriously during its 40 days for life.
Do what I ask and the contraception issue goes away and abortion will become so rare that PPUSA will shutter its windows and door - not because we somehow become disgusted about the procedure. That is like being disgusted with sodomy. It has no ethical force. Solve the legal question and the economic question or the issue will be seen as part of a war on sexuality. Hint: want to make a profound statement this is not about women? Ordain some. This is why the Trads can't do anything on these issues.
Monday, August 3, 2015
Links for 08/03/15 | National Catholic Reporter
Links for 08/03/15 | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: I did not see that Lake divided out the Trads as a category. I am quite sure some of them are not happy. Just look at Weigel (I would rather not, actually). If he does not like Kasper, then I like him. The bit of a trial baloon a few days after this post aired saying remarried Catholics are not excommunicate could not have helped George's blood pressure. He seems to like having people to resent.
Anyone of good conscience would denounce Brook's piece on Hillary, although we need to get a little more democratically socialistic about employee-ownership and larger subsidies for families than Hillary is likely to demand. That guy from Vermont still seems to call for all the right things, even without adherence to Francis or Leo XIII.
I don't read LifeSiteNews, its calumus on a good day. It essentially shows that the RTL movement is about sex and keeping it away from anyone not using it to have a kid (though if you have one, you are on your own for feeding it). That they would have an opinion on gay marriage shows this, even though gays often are called upon to foster other siblings kids or their husband or wives kids from a prior bad marriage all too often.
Anyone of good conscience would denounce Brook's piece on Hillary, although we need to get a little more democratically socialistic about employee-ownership and larger subsidies for families than Hillary is likely to demand. That guy from Vermont still seems to call for all the right things, even without adherence to Francis or Leo XIII.
I don't read LifeSiteNews, its calumus on a good day. It essentially shows that the RTL movement is about sex and keeping it away from anyone not using it to have a kid (though if you have one, you are on your own for feeding it). That they would have an opinion on gay marriage shows this, even though gays often are called upon to foster other siblings kids or their husband or wives kids from a prior bad marriage all too often.
The Koch Brothers and Justice | National Catholic Reporter
The Koch Brothers and Justice | National Catholic Reporter by MSW. MGB: The Koch view of liberty, which is distinctly Austrian by nature, includes elements of corporate collusion to identify and not hire trouble makers, which would force them to compete against their former employer. The problem is, this is easier said than done. While schemes such as Georgism, Catholic Distributism and a Basic Guaranteed Income mitigate against such power, they are also libertarian in nature and mitigate against solidarity.
Solidarity, of course, is not just unions, which the Church likes until pro-choice unions want to organize Catholic school teachers or advocates demand a living wage for Church workers. Indeed, Subsidiarity is not enough in these cases – indeed, they could make things worse for Church employees. They need some decent brand of libertarianism, where teachers can take a challenging view on the legality – but not the promotion- of abortion and are free of interference (Church Power) when picking health care options that may include abortion. Liberty is essential to those of us who think the Magisterium is a bad joke and the natural order a sophistry – that morality is to humanize mankind, not to diefy it. The locus of those moral decisions is not just a well-formed conscience – it’s a free discussion by all Catholics – not just the priests and theologians. While MSW’s union card is helpful, it does not bestow monopoly status in a natural law argument.
Solidarity has to include socialism – employees making decisions as owners of the enterprise. Profit sharing alone is inadequate – the authoritarianism of both economic benefit and control must be smashed and union solidarity alone won’t do that. Secretary Clinton won’t do that. There are alternatives, however, that will. These alternatives should not only be used to bring us back to FDR era concessions by the plutocrats, but implemented for their own value. Solidarity is necessary for revolution, but not sufficient.
Solidarity, of course, is not just unions, which the Church likes until pro-choice unions want to organize Catholic school teachers or advocates demand a living wage for Church workers. Indeed, Subsidiarity is not enough in these cases – indeed, they could make things worse for Church employees. They need some decent brand of libertarianism, where teachers can take a challenging view on the legality – but not the promotion- of abortion and are free of interference (Church Power) when picking health care options that may include abortion. Liberty is essential to those of us who think the Magisterium is a bad joke and the natural order a sophistry – that morality is to humanize mankind, not to diefy it. The locus of those moral decisions is not just a well-formed conscience – it’s a free discussion by all Catholics – not just the priests and theologians. While MSW’s union card is helpful, it does not bestow monopoly status in a natural law argument.
Solidarity has to include socialism – employees making decisions as owners of the enterprise. Profit sharing alone is inadequate – the authoritarianism of both economic benefit and control must be smashed and union solidarity alone won’t do that. Secretary Clinton won’t do that. There are alternatives, however, that will. These alternatives should not only be used to bring us back to FDR era concessions by the plutocrats, but implemented for their own value. Solidarity is necessary for revolution, but not sufficient.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)