VOICES OF THE FAITHFUL NOT WANTED ??

Most newspapers, magazines etc., have a Letters to the Editor section where readers can react to news and articles. Came across a copy of the Florida Catholic (Venice edition) wherein there were no letters to the Editor. Is it because Florida’s Catholics are too busy soaking up the sun to have any thoughts, or maybe the paper is too small and lacks space for readers’ opinions? There was room, however, for five (rather large) pictures of the bishop (he is a big man) ! Anyone from Florida have any ideas?

DOES THE CHRISTIAN QUIT OR DOES THE CHRISTIAN CHALLENGE?

Does the Christian quit or does the Christian challenge?

If it is true that the Holy Spirit works in each and every baptized person, then what is the role of the individual believer when something contrary to the Gospel of Jesus is preached in a faith community? Is it to sit idly and say nothing? Is it to walk out and come no more? Or is it to confront and open dialogue in search of truth?

Is it not a sad commentary that no one in a congregation is willing to question, to perhaps object, or at least seek clarification? Are members of such a congregation active thinkers, imbued with a faith commitment, and willing to face martyrdom in defense of their beliefs, or is the congregation a social gathering for song and good fellowship? Just asking.

Americans need not, no, do not, apply.

The news from Chicago reports the ordination by Cardinal George of eleven new priests for the Archdiocese, none of whom were born in this country. Fifty-one years ago, 45 new priests were ordained for the Archdiocese, virtually all of whom were natives of the Chicago area. One wag commented that “priesthood is a job Americans won’t do today.” Another replied, “Not true. Those who can’t make it in the competitive job market can become priests as late vocations and be secure for life, especially nice if they are gay“.

Some will respond with individual examples, here and there, of good young American born priests being ordained, but these are few and far between and do not reflect the overall situation. All this in spite of constant urging over the past 20 years to pray for vocation . What’s going on? One must wonder if the Catholic people really care as more and more born Catholics depart to other churches because there are no priests to serve them.

In Vino Veritas

June 6, 2008


Raymond Arroyo writing in Newsweek, April 21, 2008 says this of Benedict XVI: “He’s a quotable Pope, unafraid of stoking controversy and starting conversation.”
I like that, as I like this Pope, so such will be the hope of these reflections that they may be “unafraid of stoking controversy and starting conversation.”:
Liberals and Conservatives, or any other diverse groups one may name, must, it seems to me be able to talk to each other and even if they cannot agree they could at least try to be friends.
It is an ancient axiom “ In vino verititas” , thus said “Temetum per occasionem “might be helpful .