By: John

John — Mon, 10 Sep 2018 07:11:51 +0000

The culture of ‘Catholic’ has taken a hammering over the years following Vatican II, questioned by some, affirmed by others.
But if there is one crystal clear point that is missed: It is that it has moved away from its strengths. Modernism is in part an influence but that is not an excuse for failures.
Once Lent was accompanied by significant fasting, as was abstinence from both solids and liquids before mass on a Sunday. Since then pilgrims to Medjugorje (40 million and counting) now know a new request to fast twice a week, throughout the year. What does this turnaround mean? What implications has it for clergy? And over 500 priests received vocations following Medjugorje influence, not to mention other religious orders. The really nice thing is that some of those priests will become bishops.
Of course, Medjugorje has not concluded so no definitive pronouncements are possible (Fr G. Jordan SJ), but the contrast is very obvious.
Accompanied by this relaxing of asceticism and the rise of hedonism is the slow deterioration of shame in the west- the result of modern Television. The ability to turn off the TV and instead pray or converse with other members of the household is a challenge of every day.
Coping with the problem of Secular Humanism means consistent listening skills-, beginning early in the morning, and regular consequent prayerfulness.
The church in Australia has been forging ahead in propaganda. But is this the answer? Surely witness is a vital aspect of its integrity. Selling is no substitute for witness.
One Catholic principal’s wife revealed to me on Pentecost Sunday that she was not aware that there were over a hundred miracles of the Eucharist on the internet. How many other Catholic Principals wives are equally uninformed? Not to mention their husbands, yet these are Catholic educators.
Various documented accounts of miracles of the Eucharist authenticated are available [Bob and Penny Lord].
What material is available to the faithful, particularly children in the arena of mystical works, such as St Teresa of Avila/ Liseaux. St John of the Cross, St Elizabeth of the Trinity? Are these topics for the pulpit?
Are saints writings valued- such as Saint Alphonsus Liguori?
Harry Potter got loads of attention, but does Maria Carloni? How many bishops/ priests know about Maria Carloni?
FOUR Popes certainly did.
Numerous “ordinary Catholics” read Catholic literature, get tertiary degrees (including PhD.’s in religious arenas- not normally awarded at seminaries), and do extraordinary volunteer work, without any prompts from clergy.

Comments on: Australian bishops, religious say they can’t violate seal of confession

By: John