"The Shepherds Govern the Flock."... Or Do They?

Logo from the 2024 Lutheran Assembly. The synodal is about becoming Protestants?

The never-ending synodal process has become a serious trial to those who love the Church. One wonders why the bishops have continued to participate and even wax enthusiastic while these events fulfill the rallying cry of Francis to "make a mess." In view of the confusion and, even questionable doctrinal novelties accompanying the process, one would expect a little hesitancy and even push back from the bishops. But there's been precious little of that from the majority who undermine their own authority as they carry out the Vatican demands to "listen" to the vox populi, especially those who want to turn the Church into another Protestant sect. 

A Lenten Reflection on that Predominant Fault You Haven't Conquered Yet

Sloth from The Seven Deadly Sins by Hieronymus Bosch

Have you ever considered the question, "What is my predominant sin/fault and how can I subdue it?" There are seven deadly sins and most of us are tempted more strongly by some vices than others. And, of course, at different seasons of life, some hold more sway. 

What a Glorious Monday Morning!

Praise God in His wonderful world!

Sunday Meditation: Lent is a time for Redemption

Return of the Prodigal Son by Master of the Annunciation, anonymous painter, 17th c.

And here's a very real story of a young man's redemption from Beyond These Stone Walls. There is no such thing as an unforgivable sin or a person lost to God's love. Check out The Prodigal Son: Alexander’s Long Lent Toward Easter Sunrise:

March 26, 2025 by Alexander

An Argentinian Bishop Speaks

Don't miss this article by Argentine bishop Archbishop Héctor Aguer, archbishop emeritus of LaPlata. Don't you wonder what he could tell us about Pope Francis if he chose to? Here's the beginning:

The twelfth anniversary of Francis’ pontificate was recently celebrated. Vatican press releases are usually full of self-praise. It is very difficult to adjudicate ecclesial reality, which is incredibly vast and characterized by differences between countries, but from a certain vantage point it is possible to contemplate the surroundings. I can do it then from this corner of the far south that is Argentina, a nation that is (or was?) mostly Catholic. As the saying goes, “one example is enough to prove it.”

Do the Bishops Really Emphasize "Using Proper Terms?" That Depends!

When I'm in a masochistic mood, I read the Arlington Catholic Herald. Usually, I just scan the headlines and put it in the paper recycling. Occasionally, though, I actually do read at least a few articles. Sometimes it even gives me a good laugh, an eye roll, and a rueful head shake.

Such was the case when I read an article yesterday explaining how the RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) is getting a new name, OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults). Wow! Now that is an earth-shaking change. Well, perhaps not.

It's Not Just Thirty Pieces of Silver These Days, It's Billions for the Pharisee Bishops!

Are the U.S. Catholic Bishops Pharisees or Shepherds?

There's a story, perhaps apocryphal, about a conversation between Cardinal Ercole Consalvi, Secretary of State to Pius VII, and Napoleon Bonaparte which has the ring of truth. Apparently Napoleon told the cardinal he had the power to destroy the Church. The ironic answer from the prelate was, "If the bishops haven't been able to do it in the past 1800 years, how can you expect to succeed?"

Seventy-eight and still Fighting for the Faith!

It's my birthday -- 78 today! My parents named me Mary because of Our Lady's feast day. What a blessing to share our Blessed Mother's name!

"Charity Begins at Home." Just ask the Catholic CEOs with their exorbitant salaries!

The Catholic bishops are suing the government. Are we surprised? Isn't that what leftists always do when the gravy train is under threat. How many times has Planned Parenthood sued to keep their baby-killing machine at full speed ahead supported with billions from the taxpayers?

Of Puffery and Pulchritude: White-washing the Bad Bishops!

Have you ever noticed that diocesan "newspapers" are filled with puffery and pulchritude to make the diocese and the bishop look good? I usually glance at the headlines of The Arlington Catholic Herald and, every now and then, read an article, but for the most part, it's not worth the time. A standing joke with our previous bishop was to count how many of his photos graced the pages. Well, after all, the diocesan paper is the Catholic version of the celebrity fan magazine. Make the bishop look good.