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"A straight line to no more priests," an editorial from the National Catholic Reporter, and "Priests responding to survey favor celibacy discussion," as reported in National Catholic Reporter... "If demographics is destiny, then the American priesthood is heading toward extinction."

The Mayonaisse Jar and the Coffee: A Modern Parable

When things in your life seem almost too much to handle, when 24 hours in a day are not enough, remember the mayonnaise jar and the coffee...

Oriah Mountain Dreamer

...from the book The Invitation published by HarperSanFrancisco, 1999.

All the Pope's Men

All the Pope's Men: The Inside Story of How the Vatican Really Thinks by John L. Allen, Jr. Reviewed by Andrew Greeley.

Review of the movie on Therese of Liseux

...by Debra Murphy. The "Therese" movie is as pretty as a Thomas Kinkaide painting--and that's the problem. Therese Martin's spiritual battle against ravenous emptiness was anything but pretty.

A Papacy's 26 Years of Unfulfilled Potential

...We shouldn't celebrate John Paul II's demeaning view of women and obsession with 'pelvic orthodoxy', by Daniel C. Maguire, professor of moral theology at Marquette Univeresity.

The Real Crisis

...More critical than any other issue facing us-who-are-the-Church is the ever worsening shortage of male celibate priests. By ARCC (Association for the Rights of Catholics in the Church).

Meditation on Darkness and Light

...from Alternative Workshop, by Jenny Baker, Jenny Brown and Doug Gay

Letters to American Bishops

1) from William J. Manseau to Archbishop O'Malley of Boston. An open letter on reinstating married priests.

2) from Paul Kelly to Bishops Malone and Gregory. Re: Bishops to vote on joining new ecumenical forum.

Retired bishop disputes 'exclusive language'

...Bishop Remi de Roo makes pastoral appeal for inclusive words, by Art Babych, Canadian Catholic News. October 21/04

We Forget...God's Grandeur

1) We Forget...The miraculous is not extraordinary / but the common mode of existence...by Wendell Berry; 2) God's Grandeur...The world is charged with the grandeur of God...by Gerard Manley Hopkins.

The Search for Enlightenment

A Christian Discovers the Buddhist Path. By Frederick A. Miller.

Two New Books on Bonhoeffer

1) The Bonhoeffer Phenomenon by Stephen R. Haynes; 2) Bonhoeffer as Martyr by Craig J. Slane

A Prayer for today

...O Cosmic Christ, by Mary Lou Kownacki, OSB

Lumen Gentium revisited

...by James Hanvey, S.J. The "universal call to holiness" was enshrined in the Second Vatican Council document on the Church. Still more change is required if that is to come about.

Article on the Synod in 2005

...on the Eucharist prepared by the bilingual Ottawa group called the "Manifeste Group".

Thomas Fox leaves NCR

A marvelous, unpredictable journey. By Thomas C. Fox, publisher of the National Catholic Reporter.

Keeping the Eucharistic Community Eucharistic

...by Joan Chittister, OSB. She supports Australian priests in their proposals for the 2005 Synod on the Eucharist.

Australian Priests Demand Right to Marry

...three articles by Linda Morris.

A New Dark Age Begins

The election of Benedict XVI sent a signal throughout the world that we are entering a new Dark Age. By Bishop John Shelby Spong.

God's Chance Creation

By George Coyne, SJ. The Vatican's chief astronomer says that science reflects God's infinite purpose.

A Modern Reading of the Beatitudes

Based on the Aramaic language of Jesus, and rendered concept-for-concept rather than word-for-word from Matthew 5:2-12. By Jim Burch.

Late Fee

Please register early. A late fee will apply for registrations after May 25...

Small Groups at the UpperRoom Ministries

Recognizing that small groups take many forms and serve many purposes, this link offers different resources for small groups, including accountabilty groups, study groups, intercessory prayer groups, and devotional materials for small groups.

Resources for Small Christian Communities

...including faith sharing, group activities, ice breakers, prayer, retreats for facilitators, small group development, and training of facilitators.

Reference List

Books, articles and references of helpful aids for Small Faith Communities...

DAILY SCRIPTURE READINGS

A Catholic web site for daily scripture readings,along with meditations and prayers. CHECK IT OUT!

North

South

East

West

Center for Liturgy

Readings, commentary, and music for Sunday liturgy from Center for Liturgy at St. Louis, University.

CALL TO ACTION'S SMALL FAITH COMMUNITIES DIRECTORY

Updated resource for small faith communities throughout the USA.

Liturgy Planner

Liturgical planner updated daily from Creighton University.

Corpus - National Capital Region (Canada)

The Changing Face of the Priesthood

by Donald B. Cozzens
The Changing Face of the Priesthood is a remarkable survey of the state of American Catholic clergy today. Donald Cozzens, the president-rector of Saint Mary Seminary and Graduate School of Theology in Cleveland, combines personal reflection and analysis of empirical data in this brief but wide-ranging book.

The Other Side of the Altar

by Paul E. Dinter
Paul Dinter gives the Catholic laity a rare view into the process of priestly formation. The Other Side of the Altar reveals many other aspects of the continuous formation of Catholic clergy.

Call to Action USA

Organized after US Bishops sponsored the original "Call to Action" gathering in 1976 in Detroit, this organization of over 20,000 has been advocating for justice in the church society for over twenty years. (www.cta-usa.org/)

Catholic Network for Women's Equality

Mission: to enable women to name their giftedness and from that awareness to effect structural change in the Church that reflects the mutuality and coresponsibility of women and men within that church. (www.cnwe.org/)

Corpus Canada

A faith community empowered by baptism in Jesus' Spirit, dedicated to renewal in the Church of ordained ministries open to married and unmarried men and women, and professing a vision of Church that includes all people who profess faith in Jesus Christ. (www.corpuscanada.org/)

Corpus USA

Corpus is the Association for an Inclusive Priesthood, which rooted in a strong Eucharistic commitment, promotes an expanded and renewed priesthood of married and single men and women in the Catholic Church. (www.corpus.org/)

Final Declaration of Congress

...of the North Atlantic Federation for a Reformed Catholic Priesthood held in Wiesbaden, Germany August 26-29, 2004.

World Community of Christian Meditation

Mission: To communicate and nurture meditation as passed on through the teaching of John Main in the Christian tradition, in the spirit of serving the unity of all. (www.wccm.org/)

Gilead

...by Marilynne Robinson. This novel is set in 1956 when John Ames, a Congregational minister, has decided to write a long, memory-filled letter to his seven-year old son.

Final Declaration of the Sixth International Congress...

...of the International Federation of Married Catholic Priests.

Culture et Foi

Online e-Magazine highlighting current news and events pertaining to Culture and Faith. (www.culture-et-foi.com/)

FutureChurch

FutureChurch is an American coalition of parish-based Catholics who seek the full participation of all baptized Catholics in the life of the Church. (www.futurechurch.org/)

Life4seekers

Life4seekers is for those people who want to improve their life and find a new sense of fulfilment, a fresh energy and joy of living. (www.life4seekers.co.uk/)

Married Priests Web Site

The Married Priests Web Site is designed to explore issues surrounding mandatory celibacy in the Roman Catholic Church. It also provides support for Catholic clergy who are struggling with mandatory celibacy and the loss of career and identity should they marry. (www.marriedpriests.org/)

North Atlantic Federation for a Renewed Catholic Priesthood

One of several International Federations of married Catholic priests, motivated by a desire to be of service to the Christian community which is now suffering from a grave crisis of a shortage of priests. (www.renewedpriesthood.org/)

Women's Ordination Conference

The website of the largest international website of Roman Catholic theologians who firmly believe that the discussion on women priests should be left open. (www.womenpriests.org/)

Vatican Website

Official website of the Holy See. (www.vatican.va/)

Vatican II and Renewed Models of Priesthood

- by Jack Shea, president of the North Atlantic Federation. "The future of the Church will certainly hinge on the direction of the priestly ministry. An enormous consequence will depend on which route the "Renewed Priesthood" takes."

International Federation of Married Catholic Priests

The International Federation of Married Catholic Priests is constituted by the affiliation of organizations of married catholic priests, which have some national representation. The aim of the Federation is the renewal of the ministry of the Church. (www.marriedpriests.org/International_Federation/)

The Ultimate Cosmic Mystery

The Ultimate Cosmic Mystery: An Interpretation of "God" at the Edge of the Third Millennium, by Robert N.E. Haughton

Beyond Our Vision

Beyond Our Vision by Michael O'Kane. Reviewed by Jim Noonan.

The Church and Sexuality

"Church equates sexuality with sin: Does the Catholic Church need to revise its views on sexuality?" by Michael Murphy

Married Catholic Priests

Married Catholic Priests: Their History, Their Journeys, Their Reflections, a new book by Anthony P. Kowalski.

The Power of Laughter

While faith is not a laughing matter, a healthy Christian is able to laugh, according to Fr. Luciano Larivera, S.J. in an article in the Jesuit magazine Civilta Cattolica.

Burning Issues

Burning Issues for concerned Catholics in a changing Church. Inexpensive challenging pamphlets about ministry, authority, power, priesthood, contraception, papacy, ecumenism, spirituality, house groups, collaborative ministry, etc., building on the insights of the Second Vatican Council.

The Power of Prayer

The Power of Prayer--"Daddy's Empty Chair"

Vows of Silence, & More on Fr. Marcial Maciel

a) Vows of Silence by Jason Berry and Gerald Renner. The authors make their case against John Paul II. Reviewed by Kevin Cullen. b) More on Fr. Marcial Maciel by John L. Allen Jr.

The Reasons for Celibacy

...by Richard P McBrien. More interesting than the history of clerical celibacy are the reasons that have been offered to justify it.

The Passion of Fr. Stephen Somerville

...by Sheila M. Dabu, from The Toronto Star. Fr. Stephen Somerville, a Toronto area priest who was spiritual adviser to Mel Gibson during filming of the controversial movie The Passion of the Christ has been suspended by Aloysius Cardinal Ambrozic for saying masses for a traditional Catholic splinter group.

Report on Congress of North Atlantic Federation

Report on the North Atlantic Federation for a Renewed Catholic Priesthood (NAFRCP) Congress in Wiesbaden, Germany, August 26-29, 2004 by D'Arcy Coulson, with photograph of the executive at bottom.

Thoughts on Closing Parishes

...in Boston and Portland in 2004, by Paul Kelly..

Mary Magdalene

...not a prostitute, but an apostle. By Joanne Struch.

Australian Priests on the 2005 Synod on the Eucharist

The National Council of Priests of Australia: Reflections on the Lineamenta.

A Christmas Story

Transformed into beings of heat and light. By Tom Harpur.

Into the Dark with God: A Christmas Meditation

...on the Incarnation, for a Troubled World. By Hans Urs von Balthasar.

Peace Seeds

...from twelve religious traditions.

Sacred Presence: In Search of the New Story

By Robert C. Wild. On the new tidal wave in theology: the necessity of reinterpreting the now incontrovertible findings of "the new cosmology". Reviewed by Ted Schmidt.

God, the Tsunami, and Human Generosity

Where was God in the Tsunami? And where were human beings? Political and Theological Reflections by Rabbi Michael Lerner.

Charter of L'Arche

...founded forty years ago - in 1964 - by Jean Vanier and Fr. Thomas Philippe.

Maurice Sullivan's Grace at Christmas Party 2005

"The View from Heaven: A Christmas Reflection."

Meister Eckhart: living without a 'why'

...by James McFadden, taken from Spirituality (May-June 2003), a publication of the Irish Dominicans.

Celibacy is a Rule that the Catholic Church Can and Should Change

...by Dr. Muriel Porter, an Anglican laywoman writing in the magazine The Age.

Faith That Dares to Speak

...by Donald Cozzens. Reviewed by David Gibson.

Priests In Love

Priests in Love: Catholic Clergy and Their Intimate Friendships by Jane Anderson.

The Priest Who Couldn't Cheat

...Life Beyond the Roman Collar by Hank Mattimore. Reviewed by Jim Noonan.

A Solution to the Priest Shortage

By Danielle Kinkel and John Kinkel. Boston Globe Op Ed Page.

The Terrible Love of War

...by James Hillman. The renowned Jungian analyst has come to understand war's passion as a mythical state of being that drives combatants to extremes of inhumanity and devastation, with applications to the war in Iraq.

Merton Gets Tossed from New Catechism

...victim of latest round over who gets to decide what's Catholic. By Deborah Halter.

A Profile of Fintan Kilbride

...winner of the Marion Tyrell Award of Merit for 2005 of the Ontario English Catholic Teachers Association.

An Interview with Diarmuid O'Murchu

The Social Edge Interview: Social Psychologist, Author, and Priest Diarmuid O'Murchu, by Gerry McCarthy.

Romero Lives Among His People

...25 years after his murder, the archbishop is still an inspiration.

"Attention Must Be Paid"

An overview of his life and work on the death of American playwirght Arthur Miller. By Leo J. Donovan.

Teilhard de Chardin: A Holy Man & Lover of the World

...Reflections on the 50th Anniversary of His Death. By Thomas M. King.

Life Begins Anew

...First Days of Spring. A Meditation for Easter.

B--ARCHIVE (Click on the titles below, or go to this section in the website)

ENTRIES BEFORE JUNE 2008:

Editor of Jesuits' America Magazine Forced to Resign

...under Vatican pressure. By Tom Roberts and John L. Allen, Jr. From the National Catholic Reporter, May 6, 2005.

A--NEW (Click on the titles below, or go to this section in the website)

ENTRIES FOR JUNE, JULY 2008:

Celibacy and the Rediscovery of the Androgyne

...by Diarmuid O'Murchu. As found on O'Murchu's website at: www.diarmuid13.com

A--NEW (Click on the titles below, or go to this section in the website)

ENTRIES FOR JUNE 2008:

A--REALLY NEW (Click on the titles below, or go to this section in the website)

ENTRIES FOR JUNE 2008:

B--ARCHIVE (Click on the titles below, or go to this section in the website)

ENTRIES BEFORE JUNE 2008:

Articles on Two Giant Theologians

1) Yves-Marie Congar, O.P., by Peter J. Bernardi; and 2) Joseph Fuchs, S.J., by James F.Keenan, S.J. From America, Vol. 192, No. 12 (April 4, 2005).

Crisis in the Catholic Church:

...The Pope's Contradictions. By Hans Kung.

The Power of Frailty: A Papal Plus

Reflections occasioned by the imminent death of Pope John Paul the Second. By Joan Chittister, OSB.

Catholics in America:

...A Restive People under Pope John Paul II. By Laurie Goodstein. From the New York Times.

Relapsed Catholic

A religion blog by Kathy Seidle of Toronto, Canada. Contains daily news items and many interesting links. (www.relapsedcatholic.com/)

How Will History Judge John Paul?

Gregory Baum says his conservatism on sexual ethics created a new gap between the Catholic Church and other Christian churches. But John Paul II was also a radical on peace issues, and thought wars were evil.

John Paul II's Mixed Legacy

John Paul II was a brave, holy man. But his authoritarian style--especially on sexual doctrines--polarized the Church. By Andrew Greeley.

The Price of Infallibility

It's time to ask: To which of the many papal traditions did John Paul II belong? By Thomas Cahill, Op-Ed Contributor, New York Times.

SPECIAL SECTION--2

ARTICLES ON POPE JOHN PAUL II:

The Pope's Funeral Homily

Text of the homily delivered by Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger.

Fintan Kilbride's Acceptance Speech

...for the Marion Tyrrell Award. See the Profile of Fintan Kilbride in the Archive of this News section.

A Pope of Many Contradictions

By Ted Schmidt, Editor of Catholic New Times of Toronto.

Let Fathers Be Fathers

By Nicholas D. Kristof, Op Ed Columnist, New York Times, April 10, 2005. He prophesies that the next pope will allow married men to become priests.

Anthony Padovano Going to Rome before Conclave

By Ray Grosswirth, Secretary of Corpus USA.

Raise Your Voice, Save the Eucharist!

By Father Jeff Doucette, New Brunswick, Canada.

The Other Half of the Church

By Catherine Pepinster, editor of The Tablet, where this article on the place of women in the Church appeared on April 16, 2005.

He Was a Magnificent Pope...

...who presided over a controversial pontificate. By John L. Allen, Jr.

New Pope's First Crisis

The priest shrotage and its surprisingly simple solution: allow marriage as an option for priests. By Deborah Caldwell. With comments by Anthony Padovano and others.

SPECIAL SECTION--1

ARTICLES ON POPE BENEDICT XVI:

Marriage Works Says a Priesthood Convert

Fr. Bob Harwood concedes he is the happy beneficiary of the loophole in the Catholic Church that allows married clergy converts to be ordained priests. By Jill Rowbotham.

B--ARCHIVE (Click on the titles below, or go to this section in the website)

ENTRIES BEFORE JUNE 2008:

Hero of Church's Conservatives Becomes Pope Benedict XVI

By John L. Allen, Jr., Rome

A Profile of Benedict XVI

...the Vatican's Enforcer. By John L. Allen, Jr.

Divisive Issues Await New Pope:

Celibacy for priests, ordination of women among controversial topies on the table. By Kim Kozlowski and Lisa Zagaroli, from The Detroit News.

The Pope Is Not the Church:

...Catholics Are. By Eugene Cullen Kennedy.

Media Release from Corpus USA

April 21, 2005. Corpus USA offers to collaborate with Benedict XVI to solve vocation crisis.

Benedict XVI: A Watchdog Turns Shepherd

By Father Daniel Donovan, Professor Emeritus of Theology at St. Michael's College, University of Toronto.

Pope Benedict XVI's First Message

...delivered in Latin at the end of Mass on April 21, 2005, with the members of the College of Cardinals in the Sistine Chapel, as released by the Holy See Press Office.

The Result of the Papal Election

By Hans Kung, a theological consultant for the Second Vatican Council, who played a major role in the writing of the documents of Vatican II .

"A Humble Intellect"

By John D. Spalding. Controvesial German theologian Uta Ranke-Heinemann explains why she's glad that her former classmate has been made pope.

Reflections on Pope John Paul II

By Jim Noonan, a member of Corpus-National Capital Region (Canada) and editor of its website (www.ca.renewedpriesthood.org).

Pope Benedict XVI:

...Rome's Radical Conservative. By Michael Novak.

CNWE's Requests to Benedict XVI

The Catholic Network for Women's Equality (CNWE), a Canadian grassroots organization, outlines its requests to Pope Benedict XVI.

Assessing His Legacy: Four Critiques

By 1) Nancy A. Dallavalle; 2) Richard P. McBrien; 3) Rabbi Irving Greenberg; and 4) Terrence W. Tilley.

Challenges for the New Pope

An Editorial in America magazine, April 25/05.

Benedict XVI's Inaugural Mass Homily

"Do Not Be Afraid of Christ! He Takes Nothing Away and Gives Everything." Rome, April 24, 2005.

The Real Benedict XVI:

Far from a "Rottweiler", the new Pope is a Mozart man, a listener with a keen mind and a good heart. By George Weigel.

Separate, Not Equal at All:

Most orthodoxies have found a way to make women both apart and less, by turning them into near occasions of sin or angels in the house. By Anna Quindlen.

Assessing the Pontificate of John Paul II

By Episcopalian Bishop John Shelby Spong.

Is Liberation Theology Dead?

By Rosemary Radford Reuther, Carpenter Professor of Feminist Theology at the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley, California.

Anthony Padovano Reports on the Conclave Project

A report on the Conclave Project by the Corpus USA Ambassador.

Welcoming a New Pope

By Ronald Rolheiser, OMI, a specialist in the field of spirituality and systematic theology.

Women Expect Little Change on Core Issues

Under Benedict XVI the Vatican is likely to stand firm against female ordinaton and artificial contraception. By Lisa Anderson.

A Liberation Theologian on Benedict XVI:

...Pope of Fear and Centralized Power? By Leonardo Boff.

The Turning Point

How the upheavals of 1968 turned Joseph Ratzinger, a Vatican II reformer, into an ardent conservative. By David Van Biema.

A Place for Dissent:

My Argument with Joseph Ratzinger. By Charles E. Curran.

Anthony Padovano in Phoenix

Former priest travels the world to push for a Catholic clergy allowed to marry. By Lawn Griffiths.

Abuse Suit Forces Sale of Churches:

Newfoundland diocese needs $13 million; Catholic priest victimized 39 boys. By Dene Moore of the Canadian Press, May 10, 2005.

Do Not Weep for Me, Weep for Yourselves

A reaction to the resignation of Ameica editor Tom Reese, S.J. By Joan Chittister, OSB.

Missive from a WOW 2005 Planner

An invitation to attend and support the Women's Ordination Worldwide 2005 Conference at Carleton University, Ottawa, Canada, July-22-24. By Virginia Lafond, Co-chair, WOW 2005 Host Committee.

The Sins of Scripture

By John Shelby Spong. Liberal Bible-Thumping. Reviewed by Nicholas D. Kristoff.

TV Movie "Our Fathers" on Sex Abuse Scandal

Returning spotlight to sins in Boston. With Christopher Plummer as Cardinal Law. By Alessandra Stanley.

Making Sense of Mary

Thoughts on the joint statement by Catholic and Anglican scholars on the role of Mary. By Sarah Jane Boss.

Bad Theology Creates Bad Ecology

Excerpted from The Sins of Scripture by John Shelby Spong.

Cardinal O'Brien Forecasts Married Priests

The leader of Scotland's Catholics believes the church will eventually relent and allow priests to marry. By Calum MacDonald.

The Pope's Right-Hand Woman

Benedict XVI's longtime assistant--Ingrid Stampa, a German laywoman--may just become his confidante at the Vatican. By Rocco Palmo.

Three Reactions to the Forced Resignation of the Editor of America

By 1) Eugene Cullen Kennedy; 2) Joan Chittister, OSB; 3) Richard N. Ostling.

Another Review of TV Movie "Our Fathers"

"Our Fathers" takes viewer inside sex abuse scandal. By Shia Kapos.

Galilee Retreat on October 15-16, 2005

For members of CNWE, CCO, Corpus, and Cosmology and Comparative Religion groups and others interested.

U.S. Jury Backs Bishop Remi de Roo

...over land deal. Vancouver, June 3, 2005.

Cardinal Murphy-O'Connor at Odds with Benedict XVI

...over the direction in which the Pope wishes to take the Church. By John Lloyd.

The Reformation 500 Years Later:

On the need for religious change. By Matthew Fox.

Thoughts on the Papacy:

Container versus contents. By Richard Rohr, OFM.

Nine North Ameican Women to be Ordained on July 25, 2005

...in a ceremony on the St. Lawrence River near Ganonoque, Ontario. Two articles:

Crisis in Priestly Life in Australia and United States

Two articles: 1) By Linda Morris (Australia); 2) By Richard P. McBrien (United States).

Benedict XVI Warms to Papacy:

New pontiff less conservative, more pastoral than expected. By Ann Rodgers.

Correction to Story on Benedict XVI and Celibacy

From Tom Roberts, Editor of National Catholic Reporter.

Church Reacts After Two Canadian Priests Speak Out:

Fr. Ed Cachia of Cobourg, Ontario and Fr. Karl Clemens of Kingston, Ontario. By Michael Valpy.

Bishops and the Beached Whale

They need to let the hierarchical style die. By Eugene Cullen Kennedy.

Two Photos of IFMCP 2005 Congress in Wiesbaden, Germany

1) The new executive committee; 2) The Canadians at the Congress. (Photos courtesy of Joe Gubbels)

Spirituality Is Essential to Wholeness

By Michael Higgins. A summary of his talk "The Spirituality of the Wounded", which focuses on Henri Nouwen and JeanVanier.

Pope Benedict's Theological Vision

By Joseph A. Komonchak. A look at the continuity in the new pope's basic theological approach and vision.

Profile of Sr. Joan Chittister, OSB

A life dedicated to her faith, and to questioning its policies. By Mark Roth.

The Priest, His Flock and His Wife

Fr. Michael Scheip is a rarity: a Roman Catholic priest with a wife and children. His Sarasota parishioners praise Scheip, who is one of the Church's rare exceptions to the vow of celibacy, but his family keeps a low profile. By James Thorner.

The Gift of Married Priests

By Bishop John Crowley. After 49 years as a priest, the Bishop of Middlesbrough hopes for a mixed, celibate and non-celibate clergy. Access to Mass, rather than marital status, matters.

Ontario Member of Parliament, Woman Activist Denied Communion

New Democrat Charlie Angus and Celina Symmonds were both told by their parish priests not to receive Communion because their stands on social issues conflicted with Church teachings. From the Canadian Press.

Gretta Vosper and The Canadian Centre for Progressive Christianity

Her article "Poised!" is introduced by Bishop John Shelby Spong.

Letter from Dan Driscoll on The Rural/Urban Shift

with an elegy on his cousin - Thoughts From a Quiet Man - by Fr. George Gilliland.

Church Abuse Deal Approved in Newfoundland

...by Justice Alphonsus Faour for Bishop Doug Crosby's St. George's diocese. By Dene Moore.

When Is Conversion Not Conversion?

A reflection on ordaining women bishops in the Anglican Church. By Joan Chittister, OSB.

Women Bishops A Step Closer in Anglican Church: 2 articles

1) The Church of England's ruling body has voted to remove the legal blocks stopping women from becoming bishops; 2) Anglicans allow women bishoops.

Resurrecting Mary Magdalene

Historians, mystics and artists debate her significance amid a new surge of popular devotion. By Ed Conroy.

For the Sake of Heaven and Earth:

The New Encounter Between Judaism and Chrisianity. By Irving Greenberg. A Review.

On the Way to Jesus Christ

First new book by Pope Benedict XVI examines the real Jesus - quite different from the popular Jesus. News release.

Beloved French Monk Slain During Service

Brother Roger, the 90-year-old founder of the ecumenical community of Taize in France, was slain at an evening prayer service yesterday, August 16.

Report on WOW 2005 Conference

Supporters of women priests call Church hierarchy 'morally bankrupt'. By Art Babych.

Gretta Vosper Responses

By Bishop John Shelby Spong.

A Catholic Professor on Evolution and Theology

To understand one, it helps to understand the other, says John F. Haught.

Father Ed Cachia and the Reign of Terror

An editorial from Catholic New Times of Toronto. October 9, 2005.

Vows: The Story of a Priest, a Nun, and Their Son by Peter Manseau

Peter Manseau tells the story of his parents and their struggles; his father Bill is a member of Corpus USA. By David Mehegan.

Bishops Must Address Priests' Dwindling Numbers...

...after reaffirming the requirement of celibacy at the recent Synod of the Eucharist. By Cokie Roberts and Steven V. Roberts.

Mourning the Loss of a Wife,...

...and the consolation given by family and friends. By Hank Mattimore.

Three Articles from the Australian e-journal Online Catholics:

1) Lay presidency at the Eucharist; 2) The responsibility of local bishops; 3) Liturgical changes emanating from the Vatican.

The Healing Life of Taize's Brother Roger

By Jim Forest. Along with the Life Profession of the Taize Community.

Religious Inequality Sparks Unofficial Ordination

By Heidi Ulrichsen. Thoughts from Marie Bouclin, Co-ordinator of the recent Women's Ordination Worldwide Conference.

Why Celibacy Makes Sense

By Rev. Robert Barron, author of Bridging the Great Divide (Sheed & Ward), who is professor of systematic theology at Mundelein Seminary.

Vatican Plan to Block Gay Priests

By Jamie Doward, Religious Affairs Correspondent, The Guardian Unlimited.

Leaving the Roman Catholic Church

What does one mean when they say they have left the Roman Catholic Church? By Paul Kelly.

Amazing Church by Gregory Baum

A review by Jack Shea of Baum's remarkable new book which underlines the steady progress made over the years in the development of progressive policies in the Catholic Church.

Albert Schweitzer: A Saint for Labour Day

By John Rollefson.

New Pope Takes Case to One Million Youth

An analysis of Benedict XVI's August 18-21 trip to Cologne, Germany for World Youth Day. By John L. Allen, Jr.

A Story Worth Sharing

Fr. John Powell, a professor at Loyola University in Chicago, writes about a student in his Theology of Faith class.

Breaking News

Does Pope Benedict XVI want to restore the Church tradition of a married priesthood? By Heinz-Jurgen Vogels and Lambert van Gelder.

Bishop Spong Answers a Question on the Virgin Birth

...Isn't the Council of Nicea's pronouncement on Jesus' divinity just a pre-emption to provide security and control?

Bishop Fred Henry on Homosexuality, and Phil Little's Response

The inclination versus the act: homosexual activity demands definition. A shepherd speaks.

Prime Minister Martin May Face Vatican's Wrath

He could be refused Holy Communion. Gay marriage also fuels bishops' debate in Canada. By Sandro Contenta.

God's New Man: The Election of Benedict XVI and the Legacy of John Paul II by Paul Collins

A report on the state of the Church at this turning point in its history. Reviewed by David James.

Fundamentalism: Symbol of the Great Discontent

What is behind radical fundamentalism? By John Renesch.

Bishops Propose Priests Wed:

Report from the Synod on the Eucharist in Rome. By Roland Flamini.

If the Eucharist Isn't a Right, Is It a Responsibility?

With comments on an initiative from Corpus USA. By Sr. Joan Chittister, OSB.

Celebration Defies Church

Michele Birch-Conery presides over first service. By Sandra McCulloch.

A Catholic Moment of Truth

A lament on the forthcoming "instruction" from Rome banning homosexuals from seminaries. By James Carroll.

Robert Walter Funk, Founder of the Jesus Seminar, 1926-2005

A tribute. By Bishop John Shelby Spong.

Forgiveness

Fourteen Steps. By Paschal Baute.

The Miracle in Abingdon, U.K.

The story of "The Spirituality Group". By Bishop John Shelby Spong.

Is the Reformation Over?

An Evangelical Assessment of Contemporary Roman Catholicism. By Mark A. Noll and Carolyn Nystron. Baker Academic Press. 272 pp. $24.99 USD. Reviewed by Geoffrey Wainwright.

The Sin of Obligatory Celibacy

A letter from Alan Phillip, C.R. to Pope Benedict XVI.

IFMCP 2005 Congress - Report

...including summaries of the presentations by Rafael Esteban and Alice Gombault. By D'Arcy Coulson.

The Catholic Challenge: A Question of Conscience by Thomas W. Rezanka

A book which should be read by Catholic laity and clergy alike. Reviewed by Jim Noonan.

Vatican Paper on Homosexuals Surfaces...

...puts limits on gays in priesthood. By Cathy Lynn Grossman.

On Priesthood and Those With Homosexual Tendencies

Instruction from the Congregation for Catholic Education.

Secularism and Benedict XVI

Secularism occupies a prominent place in the new pontificate. By Jack Shea.

Document on Homosexual Priests...

...is in tension with Advent. By Eugene Cullen Kennedy.

Saint in the City

The life and legacy of Dorothy Day. By Jason Rowe.

The Shaking Reality of Advent

Written in a Nazi prison by a Jesuit priest shortly before he was hanged in 1945. By Alfred Delp.

Stalking the Holy: The Pursuit of Saint-Making by Michael Higgins

An excerpt from Higgins' forthcoming book, which explores facets of sainthood.

The "Instruction" and Three Qualities for Holy Orders

...for both homosexual and heterosexual priests. By Paul Kelly.

For What It's Worth, Our Condolences...

...to homosexuals in positions of leadership in the Catholic Church. Editorial in National Catholic Reporter.

'No Sex' Ruling No Surprise

The new Instruction says merely that under some circumstances gays can become priests, and under other circumstances they cannot. By Andrew Greeley.

A Renewal Programme for Jesuits in India

...ordained in 1991. By Delio de Mendonca, S.J.

Pastors in Canada Are Facing Ever More Empty Pews in 2006

...with comments from Susan Roll and Tom Harpur. By Eric Shackleton, The Canadian Press.

The Elephant in the Sacristy: The Sacred Silence Around Celibacy

A three-part series by Ted Schmidt.

Touched by Beauty

How my experience of Keats's poem 'Ode on a Grecian Urn' nurtured my spirit. By Jim Noonan.

Articles on James Loney...

...and the other hostages in Iraq. From several sources.

A Look Back at 2005:

The year of two popes. By Richard P. McBrien.

The Wisdom of Importing Foreign Priests

Responses for the Australian Catholic Church that apply to other first-world countries. By Michael Whelan, SM.

He Could Have Been a Contender for Pope

The charismatice Hans Kung continues to draw crowds. By Robert Blair Kaiser.

Telling the Oblate Story

...for the final edition of the magazine Oblate Missions. By Frederick A. Miller.

The Catholic Worker Movement: Intellectual and Spiritual Origins by Mark and Louise Zwick (Mahwah, N.J.: Paulist Press, 2005; paperback, $29.95 USD)

'Considering Dorothy Day.' A review by Paul Likoudis.

Anybody Remember 'Ransoming Pagan Babies'?

How this practice could be used for ongoing aid to disasters today. By Joan Chittister, OSB.

Loving Dissent

Fr. Charles Curran has made a career out of standing up to the Vatican. By Jimmy Fowler.

The Church in Crisis

Pope Benedict's Theological Vision. By Joseph A. Komonchak.

News of an Irish Priest Who Fathers a Child...

...brings to the fore throughout Ireland the priestly celibacy issue. Three media stories.

NOTE: THE SPECIAL SECTIONS ON BENEDICT XVI AND JOHN PAUL II FOLLOW THE ARCHIVE OF ARTICLES AND LETTERS

Benedict Gets Back to Basics

A reflection on the Pope's first encyclical 'Deus Caritas Est' ('God Is Love'). By Paul Collins.

The United Church of Canada Strikes Again

...in starting an experimental congregation in Markham, Ontario. By John Shelby Spong.

Our Endangered Values: America's Moral Crisis by Jimmy Carter

The former President offers a personal consideration of moral values as they relate to the important issues of our day. From The Carter Center.

Happiness Isn't Normal

Controversial psychologist Steven Hayes says: embrace the pain. By John Cloud.

The Saintly Sinner

The two-thousand-year obsession with Mary Magdalene. By Joan Acocella.

After the Big Chill:

Intellectual Freedom and Catholic Theologians. By Luke Timothy Johnson.

The Story Behind the Hierarchy's Obsession with Sexuality

How did the story develop and what might be its happy ending? By Mary E. Hunt.

Open Letter to Cardinal Marc Ouellet, Primate of the Church in Canada

...from the Ottawa Statement Group.

He Who Holds the Keys of the Kingdom

On the revival of indulgences under Benedict XVI. By Robert Mickens.

Gregory Baum and the New Muslim Intellectuals

Baum envisages a future marked by enlightened religious co-operation. By Stephen Scharper.

Short Reflections on Intimacy and Relationships

1) The Ways We Love; 2) The Presence of God; 3) The Balance Between Closeness and Distance.

Quebec Priests Take Stand for Same-Sex Marriage and Homosexual Priests

Two reports: 1) from the Montreal Gazette; 2) from the Globe and Mail.

Vetting the Jesus Parable

Bible scholar John Dominic Crossan on the Christmas story. By Jay Rath.

Charles Davis and The Da Vinci Code

1971 Observer article was one of the first to suggest Jesus married and had children. By David Smith.

Review of the film The Ninth Day

...about a priest who must return to Dachau prison in nine days unless he can get his bishop to give up his opposition to the occupation of Luxembourg. By Joseph Cunneen.

Jesus for the Non-Religious, Parts 1, 2 and 3

A new series on who Jesus was before the gospels were written. By John Shelby Spong.

Catholic Spirituality: What Does It Mean Today?

Some reflections for Lent 2006. By Lawrence S. Cunningham.

Speaking Truth to Power: The February Prophets

Bono and Joe Lowery confront George W. Bush. By Ted Schmidt.

Letter from Fr. Ed Cachia

...who is beginning a new Catholic community.

Catholic Group Takes Aim at Rome, Hierarchy on Social Issues

The Canadian Religious Conference faults the Canadian Church for its "unconditional alignment...with directives issued from Rome." By Michael Valpy.

The Tipping Point: The Climate is Crashing, and Global Warming Is To Blame

Why the crisis hit so soon--and what we can do about it. By Jeffrey Kluger.

Don't Treat Married Priests Like Pariahs

The Church welcomes married Protestant ministers to its clergy--so why the double standard? By John Horan.

Statement by Freed Hostage James Loney

...on his return to his home town of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. (Excerpts)

The Full Story About My Grandmother

The dark side of her life make her more real, more complex, more human, and no less lovable. By Brian Kantz.

Christ Could Not Have Been Married

A response to 'Charles Davis and The Da Vinci Code'. By Heinz-Jurgen Vogels.

Excommunication of Fr. Ed Cachia

...and Phil Little's letter in response to it.

Gospel of Judas--Two articles:

1) The Gospel Truth by Elaine Pagels; 2) A Kiss for Judas by David van Biema.

Easter Always

The resurrection gives us a new community in the Holy Spirit. By Leo J. O'Donovan, S.J.

Gospel of Judas--No Threat to Faith

Ideas put forth in the Gospel of Judas have confounded believers and scholars since St. Peter. By David Gibson.

Canadian Religious Conference Rediscovers the Prophetic Moment

...in its 'Message to the (Canadian) Bishops. By Ted Schmidt.

From Division to Unity

An assessment of Benedict XVI's first year in office. By Charles Curran.

Good Catholic Girls:

How Women Are Leading the Fight to Change the Church. A book by Angela Bonavoglia.

What Is the Point of Being a Christian?

On the urgent obligation to heal divisions in the Church. By Timothy Radcliffe, O.P.

Sex. Priests, and Secret Codes:

The Catholic Church's 2,000-Year Paper Trail of Sexual Abuse. By Thomas P. Doyle, A.W.R. Sipe and Patrick J. Wall.

Feminine Divine

What we're talking about when we talk about the feminine divine in Christianity. By Rosemary Radford Reuther.

Da Vinci Code Does a Disservice to Mary of Magdala

With the May 19 release of the movie 'The Da Vinci Code,' speculation about the true role of Mary of Magdala will again take center stage. By Christine Schenk.

Canadian Catholics on the Hook for $80M

...to compensate Aboriginal Canadians who attended residential schools. By Deborah Gyapong.

Vatican Restricts Ministry of Legionaries Priest Founder

Move seen as confirmation of sex abuse allegations against Fr. Maciel. By John L. Allen, Jr..

Da Vinci Code Links

Links to analysis and reviews of the book and film 'The Da Vinci Code'.

Da Vinci Code Unsettles Church

Spiritual equality for women makes many uncomfortable. By Joanna Manning.

Merton's Enlightenment

What he found in Asia. By Paul Wilkes.

Franciscan Guide to Dialogue

A look at St. Francis of Assisi as a model eminently suited to today's world. By Scott M. Thomas.

a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--1

...about Wayne the Painter.

The Lady Is A Bishop

Patiricia Fresen of South Africa was recently ordained as one of three female Roman Catholic bishops in the world. By Marjorie Reiley Maguire.

'Da Vinci Code'--The Truth at the Heart of It.

Dan Brown has said that part of his inspiration in 'The Da Vinci Code' was one of the Gnostic Gospels as presented in a book by Elaine Pagels. By Elaine Pagels.

Easter Imagined and Recreated

A speculative reconstruction of the moment when Easter broke into human history. By John Shelby Spong.

Vatican Official to Anglicans:

Women bishops would destroy unity. By Simon Caldwell.

Catholics Seek Spirituality on Their Own Terms

A look at the present state of Catholicism in Europe. By David O'Reilly.

A Brief Perspective...

...on enhancing Muslim-Christian understanding. By Jennifer Waterman.

Christianity in Canada

A summary of the recent presidential address to the Ameican Society of Church History by church historian Mark Noll. By Martin E. Marty.

Richard McBrien Replies to Timothy Radcliffe's Speech

re: 1) Demoralization in the Church; and 2) Sources of demoralization. By Richard P. McBrien.

A Church In Search of Itself:

Benedict XVI and the Battle for the Future by Robert Blair Kaiser. Reviewed by Ted Schmidt.

Ad Limina Visit to Rome of the Quebec Bishops

...and the message they received beforehand from the Canadian Religious Conference. By Marco Veilleux.

A Supportive Talk By an Active Priest

...to married priests and their wives at the Corpus USA Conference. By Richard G. Rento.

Copious Quote from George Carlin

...whose wife recently died. By George Carlin.

Catholicism in Spain

...from the Religion and Ethics Newsweekly of the PBS network (July 7/06).

How Catholicism Fell from Grace in Ireland:

Country doesn't even have enough priests. By Tom Hundley.

Children's Village

Using grandparent power to help neglected kids in Sonoma County. By Hank Mattimore.

Celebrations for St. Mary Magdalene

...for her feast day on July 22. Press Release from FutureChurch.

A Church That Can and Cannot Change by John T. Noonan, Jr.

Could the Church have gotten it wrong? Let's look at the facts. Reviewed by Cathleen Kaveny.

Archbishop Emmanuel Milingo of Zambia Breaks with Rome

...saying he wants to reconcile married priests with the Catholic Church. By Charity Moonga.

Anglicanism at the Crossroads

Changes put future of church in doubt.

On Henri Nouwen

The Social Edge interview with Michael O'Laughlin. By Gerry McCarthy.

'Where the Laity Flourish'

Letter to America Magazine. By Paul Kelly.

Opposing Responses to the Women's Ordinations in Pittsburgh on July 31

1) Understanding the priestly role by Joseph Shimek; 2) Women and the priestly role by Marjorie Reiley Maguire.

Sharing the Oceanic Feeling

A meditation by the seaside with Teresa of Avila. By James Carroll.

What Would Jesus Do? Ban Christmas!

The crazed materialism that has hijacked the meaning of the holiday is getting worse. By Ralph Surette.

In the Twilight, Billy Graham Shares What He's Learned

...in reflecting on politics and scripture, old age and death, mysteries and moderation. By Jon Meacham.

Thoughts from Catholic Theologian Daniel C. Maguire

1) Letter to all 270 United States Bishops, and to the Archbishop of Milwaukee on his reply; 2) The Church IS a Democracy. By Daniel C. Maguire.

The Muslim Malaise

The problems of Muslims are not what many in the West make them out to be. By Haroon Siddiqui.

Understanding Religious Anger

On the level of anger which seems to mark religious people. By John Shelby Spong.

Vatican Recruits African and Asian Priests

...as fewer Italians serve as priests in Rome. By Adam L. Freeman.

Two Articles on the Place of Women in the Catholic Church

1) Anything but a settled matter. By Tom Roberts; 2) The long goodbyes. By Deborah Halter.

'Fear Not' for 'The Root of War is Fear'

Reflections in a time of war on St. Mark and Thomas Merton. By Timothy Seidel.

War Is Not a Solution for Terrorism

Thoughts on the recent war experience of the United States and Israel in the Middle East. By Howard Zinn.

Pope re-evaluates 'spirit of Assisi'

...calls the 1986 interreligious prayer gathering in Assisi a prophetic event. By Robert Mickens.

Pope Should Stay Out of Canadian Politics

A commentary on the recent 'ad limina' visit to Rome by the Ontario bishops. By Joanna Manning.

'Seeing God in Others'

What I learned from the mentally handicapped. By Jean Vanier.

A Challenge, Not a Crusade

A positive view of Benedict XVI's citation on Islam. By John L. Allen, Jr.

A Negative View of the Pope's Citation on Islam

We cannot afford to maintain these ancient prejudices against Islam. By Karen Armstrong.

Breath of the Logos

Faith, reason and Isalm. By Pope Benedict XVI.

c1-Archbishop Milingo Appears in New Jersey

...to sponsor a conference for the group Married Priests Now!

c2-Archbishop Milingo Incurs Excommunication

...after ordaining as bishops four bishops of the Old Catholic Church. By Carol Glatz.

Freeing Celibacy by Donald Cozzens (Liturgical Press. Dist. Columba Book Services. $15.95 USD)

1) A profile of the author and the book. By Andrew Welsh-Huggins; 2) 'Celibacy hurts the Church, priest's book argues.' A review by David Briggs; 3) 'Priests are both flesh and spirit'. A review by Peter Cornwell.

Ad Limina Visit to Rome of the Bishops of Western Canada

...and other news of the Catholic Church in Canada.

A Short Reflection on Life, Hurt, and Happiness

...and a picture that is worth a thousand words. Anonymous.

Report on the Married Priests Now! Convocation

...held September 17-19, 2006 in New Jersey. By +Peter Paul Brennan.

When Insults Had Class

Elegant insults by and about famous people. Sample: 'He is a self-made man and worships his creator.'

Married Priests Groups Hesitant about Archbishop Milingo

...and his organization Married Priests Now! By Brian Murphy.

'Novel' Thinking Needed on Both Sides

Our world increasingly finds itself in a clash of narratives. By Noah Richler.

Thy Kingdom Come

A reflection on the roadblocks to the thinking of the Second Vatican Council. By Ted Schmidt.

Cachia's Community Meets a Detour on the Journey

As Father Ed Cachia returns to the Roman Catholic Church, Christ the Servant community contemplates its next steps. By Heather Bahen.

Saint Finder of Keys

On All Saints Day, prayers for every need, including scarce parking spaces, lost iPods and hard-to-find husbands. By James Martin, SJ.

The Changing Language of God

More Latin Masses seen as a futile shoring up of a rapidly collapsing clericalism. By James Carroll.

Report on the North Atlantic Federation for a Renewed Catholic Priesthood

...following its executive meeting in London, England on October 1, 2006. By Jack Shea.

The Rule of Benedict by David Gibson

'The Puzzling Pope: Who Is Benedict XVI?' A review by Andrew M. Greeley.

Pope and Aides to Discuss Celibacy Issues on November 16

...and a world candle light vigil for married priests on November 15.

Catholic New Times Ceases Publication

Church's 'voice of dissent' in Canada closes. By Stuart Laidlaw.

Pope Reaffirms Celibacy for Priests

...after a summit with aides at the Vatican. By the Associated Press.

The Bible Is True

...and some of it happened. By Ted Schmidt.

Members of Corpus-National Capital Region (Canada) Attend Retreat on Islam

...at Galilee Centre in Arnprior, Ontario. By Jim Noonan.

Press Release: Archbishop Emmanuel Milingo Answers Vatican

...by reaffirming the gift of celibacy and the holiness of marriage. From Dairo Ferrabolli.

Pondering with Mary

A reflection on the meaning of Mary for today. By Frederick A. Miller.

Muhammad: A Prophet for Our Time by Karen Armstrong

A new biography of the founder of Islam. Reviewed by Wayne Holst.

Cardinal Hummes Eats Vatican Crow

...after declaring the Vatican "may revise the question" of clerical celibacy. By Ted Schmidt.

Muslim Theologians Battle Female Circumcision

They agree that the practice of female genital mutilation is irreconcilable with Islam. By Amira El Ahl in Cairo.

Guelph Native Thomas Collins Is New Toronto Archbishop

Edmonton archbishop, 59, will replace the retiring, and often controversial, Aloysius Cardinal Ambrozic, 76. By Dale Brazao.

Archbishop Milingo Ordains Two Married Men

...at a Married Priests Now! Convocation in New Jersey. By David Porter.

a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--2

...about the Catholic parrots who could say the rosary.

Obituary for Fintan Kilbride

...priest, husband, father, teacher, tireless worker for developing countries. From the Toronto Star.

aCatholics for a Changing Church (UK)

Catholics for a Changing Church was founded in the wake of Humanae Vitae in 1969 and now concerns itself with the wider issues of renewal and the unfinished business of Vatican II, particularly by publishing inexpensive, stimulating and challenging booklets by leading Catholic writers.(www.ccc4vat2.co.uk/)

The Coming Biofuels Disaster by Joe Brewer

With a personal introductory note by Elaine McGillicudy.

From Sand to Solid Ground by Michael Morwood (Crossroad Pub. Co.; $10.47 USD from Amazon.com)

The deceptively simple approach of this book helps readers rethink many of the ideas they view as absolute but may only be traditional.

All Things Catholic

1) Ten mega-trends shaping the Catholic Church, and; 2) the top five missing mega-trends suggested by Allen's readers . By John L. Allen, Jr.

'Renovated' Catholicism Attracts Few Tenants

The story of Fr. Ed Cachia's breakaway community after he reconciled with the Catholic Church. By Kelly Patrick.

Christmas Report on Project Chincha Baja--Students Without Barriers

...about his work on two elementary schools in a village in Peru. By Joe Gubbels.

Obituary and Tribute for Father Jim Roberts

A longtime columnist with Catholic New Times of Toronto, he was one of Canada's most well-known and controversial priests. By Wency Leung.

Tne New Inquisition

1) The Vatican approves the excommunication of all members of the reform group Call to Action in the Lincoln, Nebraska diocese. The decision is being appealed. By Angela Bonavoglia; 2) A response: What Is Catholic Faith? By Richard P. McBrien.

Fintan the Unforgettable

A tribute to Fintan Kilbride (1927-2006). By Ted Schmidt.

The Muslim Mary

If you are looking for the religious text with the most references to Mary, the mother of Jesus, look no further than the Koran. By Jennifer Green.

Daily Mass Readings Podcast

The Daily Readings from the New American Bible are now available as podcasts at United States Conference of Catholic Bishops website. Sign up to receive the podcasts or listen to the podcasts at your computer. (www.usccb.org/nab/nabpodcast/)

United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB)

The official website of the American bishops. (www.usccb.org/)

Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB)

The official website of the Canadian bishops. (www.cccb.ca/)

a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--3

...about the funny things kids say in church and out of church.

Learning to Listen

Benedict XVI and interreligious dialogue. By Frances X. Clooney, SJ.

Bernard Lonergan Website

Dedicated to the ongoing work of Canadian philosoper and theologian Bernard Lonergan. Contains links to Lonergan centres around the world. (www.lonergan.on.ca/)

Canadian Council of Churches

The official website of the Canadian Council of Churches. (www.ccc-cce.ca/)

Church Without Women Leaders

Will women ever govern the Roman Catholic Church? By John Wijngaards.

World Council of Churches

The World Council of Churches (WCC) is the broadest and most inclusive among the many organized expressions of the modern ecumenical movement, a movement whose goal is Christian unity. (www.oikoumene.org/)

Muslims on Television

...from Muhammad Ali to Canada's Little Mosque on the Prairie. By Amir Hussain.

Universalis

A website that contains the Liturgy of the Hours and Mass readings for every day. (www.universalis.com/)

This Is A Blessing--Claim It!

In life's crises we should recognize the blessing. By Daniel O'Rourke.

aThe European Network Church on the Move

The European Network Church on the Move is an umbrella organization for some thirty Catholic renewal organizations in some dozen European countries, with affiliations with a number of other international and non-European groups. (www.european-catholic-people.eu/)

The Riddle That Is Joseph Ratzinger, aka Benedict XVI

A pope for the melancholy modern age. By Alexander Smoltczyk.

Lay Ecclesial Ministry and the Feminization of the Church

Most people's experience of pastoral ministry in the Catholic church is increasingly with a lay person rather than a priest. By John L. Allen, Jr.

Rev. Marcial Maciel Degollado Dies at the Age of 87

He was the founder of the influential Roman Catholic group the Legionaries of Christ. By Ian Fisher.

aCanadian Christian Meditation Community

The purpose of this site is to provide information about Christian Meditation in Canada today. (www.meditatio.ca/)

Not So Heterodox: In Defence of Roger Haight

By Paul Lakeland. Paul is one of the presenters at the 2007 Corpus USA Conference in Providence, Rhode Island, June 22-24.

Sex Cases Prompt Sale of Bishop's Residence

...that's been home to London, Ontario's Roman Catholic bishops for more than 90 years. By Joe Matyas.

1) Corpus USA Board Statement on Married Priests Now! & 2) Responses

re: the organization in the United States founded by Archbishop Milingo of Zambia.

Social Justice Fighter

An interview with Thomas Collins, the new Archbishop of Toronto. By Stuart Laidlaw.

Reflections on Christian Grief

...occasioned by the death of John Harvie Knight 1960-2006. By John Shelby Spong.

To Keep a True Lent

A poem by Robert Herrick (1591-1674).

The Divinization of the Cosmos

An interview with Brian Swimme on Pierre Teilhard de Chardin. By Susan Bridle.

a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--4

...about the stories kids learn in Sunday school.

A Marriage Made in Heaven?

Archbishop Milingo says his story is all part of a divine plan. By Peter Manseau.

Father Joe Maier: Slum Priest

He's been working in the slums of Bangkok for 30 years. By Phil Jones.

Post-Eucharistic Synod Apostolic Exhortation Sacramentum Caritatis

Excerpt from the document 'On the Eucharist as the source and summit of the Church's life and mission', including a summary and the complete document's URL address. By Pope Benedict XVI.

Vatican Censures Jesuit Liberation Theologian Jon Sobrino

...who calls its procedures 'not honest'. By John L. Allen Jr.

The Many Forms of Fundamentalism

Fundamentalism has made an extraordinary impact on the world of today. By James Carroll.

The Song That Goes On Singing

An interview with Dr. Beatrice Bruteau, proponent of evolutionary spirituality. By Amy Edelstein and Ellen Daly. With two introductions by Elizabeth Debold.

Knock It Off: A Challenge to Polarized Catholics

An interview with Ronald Rolhsier, OMI, a bridge between liberals and conservatives in the Church. With a Postscript by him on three things for liberals and three things for conservatives to ponder. By the editors of US Catholic Magazine.

Bedtime Prayer of Forgiveness

You, my eternal friend, witness now that I forgive anyone who hurt or upset me or who offended me...By Rabbi Michael Lerner.

Hans Kung Claims Right To Be in Pope's 'Loyal Opposition'

...in a talk given at Saint Paul University in Ottawa. By Deborah Gyapong.

Easter Report 2007 from Joe Gubbels

On "Project Chincha Baja--Students without Borders" in Peru.

Archbishop Raymond Roussin of Vancouver, BC Battles Depression

...and its stigma. By Douglas Todd.

a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--5

...about the wife who met her remarried husband at the Gates of Heaven.

Jesus for the Non-Religious by John Shelby Spong (NY: HarperCollins, 2006; 336 pp; hardcover, $24.95 USD)

A promotion of the new book by Episcopalian Bishop Spong.

Passover and the Passion

Each is the organizing act of a religion that has spent most of two millennia in tension with the other. By James Carroll.

Good Friday Is Still With Us:

The forces which managed to nail Jesus to the cross are still with us. By Ted Schmidt.

The Pope and Islam

Is there anything that Benedict XVI would like to discuss? By Jane Kramer.

Why People Leave the Church

Don't blame the zeitgeist: reflections of a member of the Orthodox Church. By John Garvey.

Is Benedict

Is Benedict XVI Open to Changing the Law on Priestly Celibacy?

Some Vatican insiders think so. By Russell Shorto.

Disappointment and Sadness in the Church in Canada

The Ottawa Statement Group reacts to the publication of the Post-Synodal Apostolic Exhortation on the Eucharist.

A Son of a Priest Argues the Family Case for a Married Priesthood

Vows of celibacy weren't always required; for 1700 years priests often got married. By Zachary Slobig.

Inertia Will Cost Us the Earth

Three small, low-key stories in the inner pages of the newspapers should have been enough to galvanise every reader into instant action. By Gwynne Dyer.

"Sweet Jesus" in Chocolate, and Child Slavery in the Chocolate Industry

1) A story of two scandals, and; 2) A clarification. By Daniel O'Rourke.

a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--6

...about the fellow who was about to jump off a bridge.

Priests for the 21st Century, edited by Donald Dietrich

In 'The Church in the 21st Century' series.

You Are What You Grow

How is it that today the people with the least amount of money to spend on food are the ones most likely to be overweight? By Michael Pollan.

Rite Turn

Can the Latin Mass make a comeback?

The New Archbishop Speaks Sign Language

Richard Smith is installed as Archbishop of Edmonton.

Marie Bouclin, a Sudbury Woman, Will Be Ordained a Catholic Priest in Toronto on May 27

...in a ceremony that will not be recognized by the church. By Claire Pilon.

Church In Transition Awaits Pope's Visit to Brazil

Charismatic movement aims to halt exodus from the Catholic Church. By Patrick J. McDonnell and Tracy Wilkinson.

New Archbishop Named for Ottawa

Terrence Prendergast, S.J., current Archbishop of Halifax, will succeed Marcel Gervais. A press release from the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops, May 14, 2007.

Jesus of Nazareth by Pope Benedict XVI (NY: Doubleday, 2007; $32.00 hardcover)

With 'Jesus of Nazareth,' Pope Benedict XVI fights back against 'the dictatorship of relativism' by showing the world his vision of the definitive truth of Christ. A review by Lisa Miller.

Canada and the Religious Right

...and its relationship with the U.S. Religious Right. By Ted Schmidt.

Many Call Me Father, But My Kids Call Me Dad by Rev. James E. Lovejoy

The Life Story of a Married Catholic Priest. From the Bangor Daily News.

a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--7

...about whether Jesus laughted or not. Adapted from Jim Martin, SJ.

The Birds and the Bees -- and Interdependence

If the nation's honeybees continue to die off, it will be a catastrophe for the food industry itself. By Daniel O'Rourke.

Nomination of Bishops in Kingston, Vancouver, and New Westminster

Pope Benedict XVI today announces the appointments of Brendan O'Brien, Michael Miller and Kenneth Nowakowski to these respective dioceses. A media release of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops, May 31, 2007.

Anglicans Confront Same-Sex Issues

Tensions grow as date for church's national vote in Canada draws near. By Jennifer Green.

The Spirit at Your Back: Spiritual Reflections on This and That by Daniel O'Rourke

A review by Rich Hasselbach, and how to order the book.

Into Great Silence, a film by Philip Groning

A Gentle Whisper, a review of the film. By Matthew Boudway.

Asians Say Their Interest Is Mission, Not Church

A report from the Catholic Theological Society of America's annual conference in Los Angeles. By John L. Allen, Jr.

Gender Equality Ends at the Pew

As Canadian society strives to treat men and women as equals, religion still lags behind. By Leslie Scrivener.

Thought vs. Feeling in Religion

The conflict between them was on display when Pope Benedict XVI arrived last week in Brazil. By James Carroll.

Women Deserve To Be Part Of Priesthood

...says a woman called to ordination in the Roman Catholic Church. By Janice Sevre-Duszynska, Catholic activist.

Beyond Fall/Redemption: The New Story

On the refocusing of theology on God's intimacy with the earth as envisaged by Thomas Berry and others. By Ted Schmidt.

a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--8

...about Bubba the Baptist who became a Catholic.

Petition to Benedict XVI on Reinstating the Diaconate for Women

and celebrations to honour Mary of Magdala on her feast day, July 22.

The Ecstasy of Ultreya

Reflections on a pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela. By Daniel McCarthy.

This Is NOT the Word of the Lord!

Reflections on a Sunday worship service in which the only thing wrong turned out to be the Bible. By John Shelby Spong.

Coming Soon to a Church Near You

A commentary on the restoration of the Tridentine Latin Rite in the Catholic Church. By Joan Chittister.

2008 Conference of FCM, CORPUS, WOC, and RCWP

On Friday, July 18 - Sunday, July 20, 2008 in the Hyatt Harborside Hotel at Boston Logan International Airport. Theme: Inclusive Ministry and Renewal in a Complex Age.

Pope Benedict's Mistake

...in issuing two decrees last week: 1) restoring the Mass of the Council of Trent; and 2) resuscitating an outmoded Catholic exclusivism. By James Carroll, July 16/07.

Full Participation Before All Else: On Greater Use of the Tridentine Mass

This is a small change that presages more substantive changes. An editorial from the National Catholic Reporter.

Letters of Benedict XVI on the Use of the Roman Liturgy

1) Apostolic Letter 'Summorum Pontificum' Given Motu Proprio.

2) Letter to the Bishops on the Publication of the Apostolic Letter 'Summorum Pontificum'.

a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--9

...about the golfer who has an audience with the Pope.

Why Women Should Be Priests

Excerpts from a Houk brochure. By John Houk.

Victims of Suicide Are Sick Not Sinners

With references to Canadian priest author and columnist Ron Rolheiser. By Daniel O'Rourke.

American Catholics Today by Dean Hoge (Roman & Littlefield, 224 pp, paperback. $24.95 USD)

'The Church's Changing Face'. A review essay by Andrew M. Greeley.

More on Catholic-Jewish Relations

...based on Pope Benedict's July motu proprio giving permission to celebrae the pre-Vatican II Latin Mass. By John L. Allen, Jr.

Catholics Threaten To Shun Amnesty on Abortion

As the Council of Amnesty International meets in Mexico. By Pat Ashworth.

Open Letter to Petition Organizers Paul Collins and Frank Purcell

...supporting their petition to the Australian Bishops calling for married priests, women priests and other changes, including the petition. By Bishop Pat Power.

Liturgy 40 Years After the Council

High point or regression? By Godfried Danneels.

a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--10

...about the world's funniest joke, as reported by The Ottawa Citizen (Aug. 19/07).

Mother Teresa's Crisis of Faith

'I look and do not see, listen and do not hear.' Words of Mother Teresa. By David Van Biema.

The Corpus USA 2007 Conference

...held on June 22-24 at the Rhode Island School of Design in downtown Providence, Rhode Island. By Jim Noonan.

1) Dutch Dominicans Call for Laity to Celebrate Mass, and

2) Catholic Dominican Order Rejects Radical Mass Proposal

The Church of Christ and the Churches

Is the Vatican retreating from ecumenism? By Richard R. Gaillardetz.

How Does One Go About 'Eldering?'

...once we have seven or more decades under our belts? By Hank Mattimore.

A Church 'Scandal' That Isn't

A more sober look at the private letters of Mother Teresa. By Andrew Greeley.

25th Anniversary of Benedictine John Main's Life To Be Celebrated

...at the John Main Seminar in Mount Orford, Quebec, Canada, October 18-21, 2007. By Paul Harris.

1) Vatican Accuses Rev. Peter Phan of Violating Catholic Doctrine, and

2) Pope Warns Catholic Theologians Against Arrogance.

Pope to Visit Post-Scandal U.S. Dioceses

...in a visit whose main purpose is to address the United Nations.

Obituary of Maria Hubert von Staufer

...who addressed the Congress of the North Atlantic Federation for a Renewed Catholic Priesthood in Wiesbaden, Germany in 2004.

Married Priests Now! Conference in the Boston Area on October 13, 2007

...along with the officical position of Corpus USA regarding the ministry of Married Priests Now!

1) Thoughts on the Recent Practice of Confession in the Catholic Church, and

2) Twenty-First-Century Sin

a-Tell Me If You've Heard This One--11

...about forgiving your enemies.

The Pope Picks His Battles