Beware the Flying Tic Tacs Thursday, July 27, 2023
I recently finished reading the book The UFO Deception: An Orthodox Christian Perspective by Spyridon Bailey, a priest of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia (ROCOR) and, before I forget, here's my review: I agree with most of his crazy claims about the majority of UFO/UAPs and extraterrestrial visitations/abductions being of spiritually demonic origin. The book made sense to me and I wouldn't argue with most of the arguments. I do find fault with the punctuation and that it didn't seem to be fully edited for grammar, although it is a British author. I do disagree with his opinion that only "Orthodox Christians" understand what it's all about. Here's a quote from the book (page 220): "Orthodoxy stands alone in its warning about UFOs. Both Roman Catholic and Protestant leaders have spoken warmly of alien visitors. This is to be expected, as Father Seraphim Rose explains: 'The reason for this credulity is clear: Roman Catholicism and Protestantism, cut off for centuries now from the Orthodox doctrine and practice of spiritual life, have lost all capability for clear discernement in the realm of the spirits.' Those currently attempting to examine the UFO phenomenon are not equipped to do so. It is something that can only be examined and understood from within the Orthodox Christian tradition." As I have warned many times myself: beware not only of strangers with candy, but beware of strangers who look like candy. I am referring, of course, to the sightings of unidentified aerial phenomena (UAPs, formerly UFOs) that resemble tic tac® candy mints the size of a bus. The podcast Mysterious Universe recently featured this book but for the life of me I cannot find it... oh, wait, here it is (for Plus+ members, not for free-loading barnacles). I've been listening to Mysterious Universe for years and I've noticed that, although both Ben and Aaron are relatively adverse to Christians and the Bible, they do tend to agree that most alien encounters are with sinister, interdimensional entities which are predominantly nefarious and their messages of world peace and spiritual enlightenment are intentionally misleading. There's a pretty insightful article here about aliens and their relation to biblical cosmology by Pope Head, who is Catholic, and another here about aliens that feed on the human soul by Nick Redfern, who is a regular contributor to the Mysterious Universe articles. Who is piloting the aereal tic tac crafts and are they obsessed with probing and implanting abductees? You really don't want to find out.		According to this Orthodox guy, so-called "space aliens" are nothing more than ye wicked daemons of olde.

Facebook is Dead Sunday, July 23, 2023 Today I did something that was very hard for me to do, not because of the years of emotional investment, but because it was technically difficult to navigate to where I could actually delete my Facebook account. Yes, Facebook is dead to me, not just because it is now Meta®, but because I couldn't care less about social media. I rarely, if ever, logged onto Facebook. Facebook (now Meta®) to me is akin to hair clogging my bathtub drain, or inconsiderate neighbors having a normal conversation outside my open window after 12:00AM, or people nearby posting about lost pets in the Neighbors Feed on the ring app, or hearing parents incoherently swear at their kids in Walmart, or my wife triggering a noisy Instagram post while watching a movie. Twitter is next on the chopping block but for now I really do enjoy posts from @DadJokes, @TheOnion, and @Shitheadsteve. I don't necessarily believe that Facebook or Meta are evil, anymore than I believe that opioids or sugar are evil. I do believe Mark Zuckerberg is evil and if I was wealthy enough I'd challenge both him and Elon Musk to a cage match. However, he is none of my concern and who gives a shit what I think about him, anyhow? What matters is that I am free from the tiny, little shackles of Facebook (now Meta®); not that I ever really noticed them before, but neither do those who are addicted.

National Apostacy Friday, July 14, 2023 On this day in 1833 at St. Mary's Church in Oxford, England, John Keble (1792-1866), an Anglican priest and Tractarian, gave a sermon based on 1 Samuel 12:23 titled "National Apostacy" in which he addressed, you guessed it, national apostacy. The sermon in its entirety is not that long and can be read online at Project Canterbury. For the sake of brevity, I shall include some of its finer points here as they relate to the United States; insomuch as many on the right see a widening gap between church and state -- one that was intentionally put there in the beginning in order that the Church of England or any other religious entity may not be in control of government. Howsoever, with Christian values dissipating from civil authority, we shall soon find ourselves at complete enmity with God. To this I say let it come and hasten no further the second coming of Christ; but as Christians we shall live according to the Gospel to be an example and not force it on the unbeliever by law, that they should in turn hate Christ himself.

'As for me, God forbid that I should sin against the Lord in ceasing to pray for you: but I will teach you the good and the right way.' (1 SAM xii. 23). On public occasions, such as the present, the minds of Christians naturally revert to that portion of Holy Scripture, which exhibits to us the will of the Sovereign of the world in more immediate relation to the civil and national conduct of mankind... Fast Forward » What are the symptoms, by which one may judge most fairly, whether or no a nation, as such, is becoming alienated from God and Christ? And what are the particular duties of sincere Christians, whose lot is cast by Divine Providence in a time of such dire calamity? The conduct of the Jews, in asking for a king, may furnish an ample illustration of the first point: the behaviour of Samuel, then and afterwards, supplies as perfect a pattern of the second, as can well be expected from human nature. I. The case is at least possible, of a nation, having for centuries acknowledged, as an essential part of its theory of government, that, as a Christian nation, she is also a part of Christ's Church, and bound, in all her legislation and policy, by the fundamental rules of that Church -- the case is, I say, conceivable, of a government and people, so constituted, deliberately throwing off the restraint, which in many respects such a principle would impose on them, nay, disavowing the principle itself; and that, on the plea, that other states, as flourishing or more so in regard of wealth and dominion, do well enough without it. Is not this desiring, like the Jews, to have an earthly king over them, when the Lord their God is their King? Is it not saying in other words, 'We will be as the heathen, the families of the countries,' the aliens to the Church of our Redeemer? To such a change, whenever it takes place, the immediate impulse will probably be given by some pretence of danger from without, such as, at the time now spoken of, was furnished to the Israelites by an incursion of the children of Ammon; or by some wrong or grievance in the executive government, such as the malversation of Samuel's sons, to whom he had deputed his judicial functions. Pretences will never be hard to find; but, in reality, the movement will always be traceable to the same decay or want of faith, the same deficiency in Christian resignation and thankfulness, which leads so many, as individuals, to disdain and forfeit the blessings of the Gospel. Men not impressed with religious principle attribute their ill success in life -- the hard times they have to struggle with -- to anything rather than their own ill-desert: and the institutions of the country, ecclesiastical and civil, are always at hand to bear the blame of whatever seems to be going amiss. Thus, the discontent in Samuel's time, which led the Israelites to demand a change of constitution, was discerned by the Unerring Eye, though perhaps little suspected by themselves, to be no better than a fresh development of the same restless, godless spirit, which had led them so often into idolatry. 'They have not rejected thee, but they have rejected Me, that I should not reign over them. According to all the works, which they have done since the day that I brought them up out of Egypt even unto this day, wherewith they have forsaken Me, and served other gods, so do they also unto thee' (I Sam. viii. 7,8). Fast Forward » One of the most alarming, as a symptom, is the growing indifference, in which men indulge themselves, to other men's religious sentiments. Under the guise of charity and toleration we are come almost to this pass; that no difference, in matters of faith, is to disqualify for our approbation and confidence, whether in public or domestic life. Can we conceal it from ourselves, that every year the practice is becoming more common, of trusting men unreservedly in the most delicate and important matters, without one serious inquiry, whether they do not hold principles which make it impossible for them to be loyal to their Creator, Redeemer, and Sanctifier? Are not offices conferred, partnerships formed, intimacies courted -- nay, (what is almost too painful to think of,) do not parents commit their children to be educated, do they not encourage them to intermarry, in houses, on which Apostolical Authority would rather teach them to set a mark, as unfit to be entered by a faithful servant of Christ? Fast Forward » Very different are the feelings with which it seems natural for a true Churchman to regard such a state of things, from those which would arise in his mind on witnessing the mere triumph of any given set of adverse opinions, exaggerated or even heretical as he might deem them. He might feel as melancholy -- he could hardly feel so indignant. But this is not a becoming place, nor are these safe topics, for the indulgence of mere feeling. The point really to be considered is, whether, according to the coolest estimate, the fashionable liberality of this generation be not ascribable, in a great measure, to the same temper which led the Jews voluntarily to set about degrading themselves to a level with the idolatrous Gentiles? And, if it be true anywhere, that such enactments are forced on the Legislature by public opinion, is APOSTASY too hard a word to describe the temper of that nation? The same tendency is still more apparent, because the fair gloss of candour and forbearance is wanting, in the surly or scornful impatience often exhibited, by persons who would regret passing for unbelievers, when Christian motives are suggested, and checks from Christian principles attempted to be enforced on their public conduct. I say, 'their public conduct,' more especially; because in that, I know not how, persons are apt to be more shameless, and readier to avow the irreligion that is in them; amongst other reasons, probably, from each feeling that he is one of multitude, and fancying, therefore, that his responsibility is divided. For example: whatever be the cause, in this country of late years, (though we are lavish in professions of piety,) there has been observable a growing disinclination, on the part of those bound by VOLUNTARY OATHS, to whatever reminds them of their obligation; a growing disposition to explain it all away. We know what, some years ago, would have been thought of such uneasiness, if betrayed by persons officially sworn, in private, legal, or commercial life. If there be any subjects or occasions, now, on which men are inclined to judge of it more lightly, it concerns them deeply to be quite sure, that they are not indulging or encouraging a profane dislike of God's awful Presence; a general tendency, as a people, to leave Him out of all their thoughts. Fast Forward » To this purpose it may be worth noticing, that the ill-fated chief, whom God gave to the Jews, as the prophet tells us, in His anger (Hosea xiii. II), and whose disobedience and misery were referred by himself to his 'fearing the people, and obeying their voice' (I Sam. xv. 24), whose conduct, therefore, may be fairly taken as a sample of what public opinion was at that time supposed to require -- his first step in apostasy was, perhaps, an intrusion on the sacrificial office (I Sam. xiii. 8-14), certainly an impatient breach of his engagement with Samuel, as the last and greatest of his crimes was persecuting David, whom he well knew to bear God's special commission. God forbid, that any Christian land should ever, by her prevailing temper and policy, revive the memory and likeness of Saul, or incur a sentence of reprobation like his. But if such a thing should be, the crimes of that nation will probably begin in infringement on Apostolical Rights; she will end in persecuting the true Church; and in the several stages of her melancholy career, she will continually be led on from bad to worse by vain endeavours at accommodation and compromise with evil. Sometimes toleration may be the word, as with Saul when he spared the Amalekites; sometimes state security, as when he sought the life of David; sometimes sympathy with popular feeling, as appears to have been the case, when violating solemn treaties, he attempted to exterminate the remnant of the Gibeonites, in his zeal for the children of Israel and Judah (2 Sam. xxi. 2). Such are the sad but obvious results of separating religious resignation altogether from men's notions of civil duty. II. But here arises the other question, on which it was proposed to say a few words; and with a view to which, indeed, the whole subject must be considered, if it is to lead to any practical improvement. What should be the tenor of their conduct, who find themselves cast on such times of decay and danger? How may a man best reconcile his allegiance to God and his Church with his duty to his country, that country, which now, by the supposition, is fast becoming hostile to the Church, and cannot therefore long be the friend of God? Now in proportion as any one sees reason to fear that such is, or soon may be, the case in his own land, just so far may he see reason to be thankful, especially if he be called to any national trust, for such a complete pattern of his duty, as he may find in the conduct of Samuel. That combination of sweetness with firmness, of consideration with energy, which constitutes the temper of a perfect public man, was never perhaps so beautifully exemplified. He makes no secret of the bitter grief and dismay, with which the resolution of his countrymen had filled him. He was prepared to resist it at all hazards, had he not received from God Himself directions to give them their own way; protesting, however, in the most distinct and solemn tone, so as to throw the whole blame of what might ensue on their wilfulness. Having so protested, and found them obstinate, he does not therefore at once forsake their service, he continues discharging all the functions they had left him, with a true and loyal, though most heavy, heart. 'God forbid that I should sin against the Lord in ceasing to pray for you: but I will teach you the good and the right way.' Fast Forward » The Church would, first of all, have to be constant, as before, in INTERCESSION. No despiteful usage, no persecution, could warrant her in ceasing to pray, as did her first fathers and patterns, for the State, and all who are in authority. That duty once well and cordially performed, all other duties, so to speak, are secured. Candour, respectfulness, guarded language, all that the Apostle meant, in warning men not to 'speak evil of dignities,' may then, and then only, be practised, without compromise of truth and fortitude, when the habit is attained of praying as we ought for the very enemies of our precious and holy cause. The constant sense of God's presence and consequent certainty of final success, which can be kept up no other way, would also prove an effectual bar against the more silent but hardly less malevolent feeling, of disgust, almost amounting to misanthropy, which is apt to lay hold on sensitive minds, when they see oppression and wrong triumphant on a large scale. The custom of interceding, even for the wicked, will keep the Psalmist's reasoning habitually present to their thoughts: 'Fret not thyself because of the ungodly, neither be thou envious against the evil doers: for they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and be withered even as the green herb. . . . Leave off from wrath, and let go displeasure: fret not thyself, else shalt thou be moved to do evil' (Ps. xxxvii. 1, 2, 8). Thus not only by supernatural aid, which we have warrant of God's word for expecting, but even in the way of natural consequence, the first duty of the Church and of Churchmen, INTERCESSION, sincerely practised, would prepare them for the second; which, following the words of Samuel as our clue, we may confidently pronounce to be REMONSTRANCE. 'I will teach you the good and the right way.' REMONSTRANCE, calm, distinct, and persevering, in public and in private, direct and indirect, by word, look, and demeanour, is the unequivocal duty of every Christian, according to his opportunities, when the Church landmarks are being broken down. Among laymen, a deep responsibility would appear to rest on those particularly, whose profession leads them most directly to consider the boundaries of the various rights and duties, which fill the space of civilized Society. The immediate machinery of change must always pass through their hands: and they have also very great power in forming and modifying public opinion. The very solemnity of this day may remind them, even more than others, of the close amity which must ever subsist between equal justice and pure religion; Apostolical religion, more especially, in proportion to her superior truth and exactness. It is an amity, made still more sacred, if possible, in the case of the Church and Law of England, by historical recollections, associations, and precedents, of the most engaging and ennobling cast. But I return to the practical admonition afforded her, in critical periods, by Samuel's example. After the accomplishment of the change which he deprecated, his whole behaviour, to Saul especially, is a sort of expansion of the sentiment in the text. It is all earnest INTERCESSION with God, grave, respectful, affectionate REMONSTRANCE with the misguided man himself. Saul is boldly rebuked, and that publicly, for his impious liberality in sparing the Amalekites, yet so as not to dishonour him in the presence of the people. Even when it became necessary for God's prophet to show that he was in earnest, and give the most effectual of warnings, by separating himself from so unworthy a person, -- 'when Samuel came no more to see Saul' (I Sam. xv. 35) -- even then, we are told, he still 'mourned for him.' On the same principle, come what may, we have ill learned the lessons of our Church, if we permit our patriotism to decay, together with the protecting care of the State. 'The powers that be are ordained of God,' whether they foster the true church or no. Submission and order are still duties. They were so in the days of pagan persecution; and the more of loyal and affectionate feeling we endeavour to mingle with our obedience, the better. After all, the surest way to uphold or restore our endangered Church, will be for each of her anxious children, in his own place and station, to resign himself more thoroughly to his God and Saviour in those duties, public and private, which are not immediately affected by the emergencies of the moment: the daily and hourly duties, I mean, of piety, purity, charity, justice. It will be a consolation understood by every thoughtful Churchman, that let his occupation be, apparently, never so remote from such great interests, it is in his power, by doing all as a Christian, to credit and advance the cause he has most at heart; and what is more, to draw down God's blessing upon it. This ought to be felt, for example, as one motive more to exact punctuality in those duties, personal and official, which the return of an Assize week offers to our practice; one reason more for veracity in witnesses, fairness in pleaders, strict impartiality, self-command, and patience, in those on whom decisions depend; and for an awful sense of God's presence in all. An Apostle once did not disdain to urge good conduct upon his proselytes of lowest condition, upon the ground, that, so doing, they would adorn and recommend the doctrine of God our Savior (Titus ii. 10). Surely, then, it will be no unworthy principle, if any man be more circumspect in his behaviour, more watchful and fearful of himself, more earnest in his petitions for spiritual aid, from a dread of disparaging the holy name of the English Church, in her hour of peril, by his own personal fault or negligence. As to those who, either by station or temper, feel themselves most deeply interested, they cannot be too careful in reminding themselves, that one chief danger, in times of change and excitement, arises from their tendency to engross the whole mind. Public concerns, ecclesiastical or civil, will prove indeed ruinous to those, who permit them to occupy all their care and thoughts, neglecting or undervaluing ordinary duties, more especially those of a devotional kind. These cautions being duly observed, I do not see how any person can devote himself too entirely to the cause of the Apostolical Church in these realms. There may be, as far as he knows, but a very few to sympathize with him. He may have to wait long, and very likely pass out of this world before he see any abatement in the triumph of disorder and irreligion. But, if he be consistent, he possesses, to the utmost, the personal consolations of a good Christian: and as a true Churchman, he has that encouragement, which no other cause in the world can impart in the same degree: he is calmly, soberly, demonstrably, SURE, that, sooner or later, HIS WILL BE THE WINNING SIDE, and that the victory will be complete, universal, eternal. He need not fear to look upon the efforts of anti-Christian powers, as did the holy Apostles themselves, who welcomed the first persecution in the words of the Psalmist: 'Why do the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing? 'The kings of the earth stand up, and the rulers take counsel together, against the Lord, and against His Anointed. 'For of a truth against Thy Holy Child Jesus, Whom Thou hast anointed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles, and the people of Israel, were gathered together, 'FOR TO DO WHATSOEVER THY HAND AND THY COUNSEL DETERMINED BEFORE TO BE DONE' (Acts iv. 25-28).

Guard Your Temper Thursday, July 13, 2023 Today we pay homage to Sister Juana Enriqueta Josephina de Los Sagrados Corazones Fernandez Solar (1900-1920) of the Order of the Discalced Brothers of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Mount Carmel, or just Teresa of Jesus -- the fourth Saint Teresa, after Teresa of Avila, Florence, and Lisieux. As you can see, she didn't live long, but died of typhus while serving in the Andes Mountains of Chile. The process of officially becoming a saint took decades and involved several different groups of theologians, bishops, cardinals, and the Pope to certify her one or two miracles (whatever they were). She was known for having a temper and, on occasion when someone would really piss her off, she'd grab them and kiss them on the cheek. Let her be a reminder to us all of Ephesians 4:25-27, 29-32 (NIV): "Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body. In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold... Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." I'd also like to give a whoop whoop to my Aunt Teresa of the Immaculate Wheelchair, who turned 65 yesterday. (I didn't forget; I was there and partook of cake.) Thanks again for that wisecrack about Roy -- we're all still laughing.

Before: Juana Enriqueta Josephina de Los Sagrados Corazones Fernandez Solar llena de rabia y enfado

After: Santa Teresa Pacifica de Los Andes

Equal to the Apostles Tuesday, July 11, 2023

Today we could recount Eleventh Night and the colossal bonfires in the Irish province of Ulster which commemorate the 1688 victory of Protestant King William of Orange over Catholic King James II, but it's a bit too controversial with overtones of lingering Protestant loyalist hatred for Catholic Irish nationalists and the burning of the Irish tricolour flag that adorns many a bonfire. Instead, let us recount the tenth-century story of Olga of Kiev (c. 900-969), whom the Eastern Orthodox Church considers Isapóstolos ("Equal to the Apostles"). A Russian of Viking descent, Olga was very shrewd in ruling the empire of Kievan Rus' after the death of her husband, Igor I, and in avenging his death at the hands of the neighboring Derevlians. You can read more about that story here after learning Russian. Sometime later, around A.D. 957, she visited Constantinople and was baptized by Emperor Constantine VII and given the Christian name Elena (or Helena). As the story goes, Constantine was smitten by Olga and had proposed marriage even though he was already married, but Olga turned him down on account she had been baptized as his daughter in Christ, which impressed Constantine so much that he bestowed upon her an impressive collection of vases. After returning to her homeland, she was unable to convert her pagan son, Sviatoslav I, but her grandson Vladimir I did convert after rising to power, evaluating the major religions of the surrounding territories, and becoming rather impressed with Byzantine Orthodoxy. He had also become rather impressed with Anna, the sister of Emperor Basil II, but had to convert in order to marry her; the price of which was 6,000 troops to help Basil II put down a revolt. Vladimir returned to Kievan Rus', tore down pagan shrines, built several churches, and converted most of his country to Christianity. His feast day is celebrated on July 15 by the Eastern Orthodox Church and on July 28 by the Roman Catholic Church, in case I fail to mention it at the time, which I probably will. Oh, and did I mention that besides Anna, Vladimir I had several other wives and an estimated eight hundred concubines? [Insert chauvinistic comment here.]

Disclaimer: Sometimes I'm Wrong Monday, July 10, 2023 I'll admit that I am wrong about a few things and sometimes I'm just talking out of my ass. There's a lot I don't know and I even question my own faith at times. Not that I question the existence of God, but that I seriously doubt my complete reliance upon God and even go so far as to feel ashamed of myself for claiming to be a Christian (Mark 8:38, Luke 9:26). Yes, the Gospel is foolishness to those who don't believe (1 Corinthians 1:18-31) and I would be honored to be a fool for Christ's sake (1 Corinthians 4:10). However, I am nothing but a bumhole on the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12-31), which it probably doesn't even need. Let's face it, I really don't love God with all my heart and with all my soul and with all my strength (Deuteronomy 6:4-5), nor do I really care much for people (Matthew 22:37-40). Hey, I'm being honest here and, truth be told, I'm pretty lazy and selfish. Today, I spent a fair amount of time sleeping like a sluggard and eating junk food like a glutton. Hell, I even watched television with the sound muted because I was too lackadaisical to find the remote control. I didn't take a sabbath from work; I took one from everything, including God. I once refused to give the shirt off my back to a shirtless stranger who asked for it. I once watched as a blind man knocked over an elderly woman and made no effort to catch her. On more than one occasion I have used my middle finger to gesture other drivers. When my two boys were each suffering from cholic in their infancy, I angrily told them to shut the fuck up. I once commented aloud that Einstein really wasn't all that smart. I have always feared that when I stand before God and His angels for judgment, I will come up severely lacking, not the least of which are for my careless words (Matthew 5:22, 12:36-37). All this to say that I made a mistake on my 7/8/23 post about the saints and martyrs listed -- who are all actually celebrated or observed on 7/9. Yes, I made a mistake. So, there. I confess.

My Advice = 2¢ Sunday, July 9, 2023

I find that the older I get the more opinionated I become and the more I feel I must voice these opinions, even if I'm not interested in the subject matter or know little to nothing about it. When once I kept my mouth shut, now I am letting people know what my advice is for them whether it's warranted or not. So here's my general advice to you: Use the F-word in moderation. Don't overdo it, though, because it will soon lose its impact. Use it tactfully and when people least expect it. It's always better for shock value rather than as a common description. If you over-use it, then people will think you're stupid because you are. Eat whatever you want and just crap it all away. I'm pretty sure I've said this before and will undoubtedly say it again. Don't bite the hand that feeds you, unless you're really hungry and it hasn't been feeding you. It's becoming a dog-eat-owner world out there; not like the good old days when it was just dog-eat-dog. Pray. Pray to God. Ask Jesus to interceed. Don't be timid and ask if God is out there somewhere listening and don't be dumb enough to think you can make any deals with Him. Check your facts. You may still be wrong but at least you tried to learn. As long as you have functioning sexual organs, sex is over-rated. Not only are there pills to enhance sexual pleasure, there are pills to kill the urge. If you are an angry asshole who refuses to go on prescription medication because a common side effect is decreased sexual desire, then you shouldn't be procreating anyway. Use whiteout to cover up your hand-written mistakes. Don't just scribble them out, unless you are writing on a napkin. When writing in calligraphy, which requires precision and perfection, the entire page containing the mistake must be destroyed. Don't know how to write but can type with two fingers? Then use spell-check. Simple text messages are exempt but electronic mail and online posts reflect just how illiterate you really are. Keep politics, religion, and toenails out of your mouth when in mixed company. You don't have to be politically correct but you also don't have to open your mouth. When you tire of someone else's advice, tell them to slowly and forcefully push it up their rectum laterally, so that they feel the nagging discomfort of their own words. Something else they can shove up their ass sideways includes all their incessant selfies. Walk away from the Internet. Go somewhere quiet and read a book that a tree sacrificed its life for. Fuck social media and fuck this blog post.

Pictured: Jenni questioning God as to why yet another family member has to overshadow her birthday. For years, she has had to share birthday parties with her nephew and now his daughter takes center stage on the same day.

Jenni Turns Fifty Saturday, July 8, 2023 It is generally my custom to begin these posts with a shout out to saints and martyrs and it's about time for some female recognition with Amandina of Schakkebroek (1872-1900), Marija Petkovic of Korcula (1892-1966), Everilda of Everingham (seventh century), Pauline of Brazil (1865-1942), Veronica Giuliani of Umbria (1660-1727), and Jenni of the 509 (b. 1973). That last one, although not a saint or martyr (yet), deserves special recognition because of her relationship to me -- not that I'm special, but she is in many ways and if I could think of them offhand I'd list them here. Let's see...for one, she's not addicted to methamphetamines. Secondly, she has a respectable job and pays taxes. Third, her children remain out of jail and so far she has guided them to becoming productive members of society. Well, that's about it. So, please text her a happy birthday at 867-5309 and let her know how special she is to you. (Note: she likes it crude and vulgar.) In commemoration of of this special woman who, by the way, is not unpleasing for the eye to behold, I shall share with you those qualities of which she shares with the aforementioned saints of antiquity: Born into the cultural impoverishment of a small, white, middleclass town, Jenni remained a virgin for much of her early life (unconfirmed), was baptized at some point (citation missing), graduated as a conscientious and reliable student from Our Lady of Lilacs Valley Preparatory School for Wayward Female Juveniles (pending reference), and grew to become a paragon of her moderate, suburban neighborhood and the apotheosis of the 509 area code. Having performed many unsubstantiated miracles, including the miracle of avoiding prison, she eventually read her Bible and became a novitiate of conservative values. Having already achieved the status of matriarch over her many dogs, today we ennoble her as an elder in the family and finally welcome her wisdom and experience. May she be as a shining beacon to our children and our children's children, some of whom also celebrate their birthdays at this time and who often take precedence, which has only made her all the more humble. God bless Jenni, my step-sister in Christ.

Freedom Edition Monday, July 3, 2023 We as Americans have many freedoms which we freely take for granted, including the freedom to be stupid and to stupidly express our stupidity and to say stupid things out loud (unless advised by legal counsel to take the Fifth). We have the Second Amendment right to bear firearms and some who are under the mistaken impression that we are a democracy recklessly shoot them into the air (which is actually illegal in most jurisdictions and we are a republic). But as anyone knows who has read their free Gideon's Bible, we are still not free from death and decay (Romans 8:21). However, your free Bible, if pocket-size and brightly colored, probably doesn't have an Old Testament, where we also find out that freedom comes through seeking out God's precepts (Psalm 119:45). Everyone has the law of the land to abide by, even those dumbasses who consider themselves anarchists. Yes, they have the freedom to burn the American flag (which is actually illegal in the U.S. only if the flag was stolen), but why make this kind of statement when it is ultimately not constructive or beneficial (1 Corinthians 10:23-24)? As everyone eventually finds out, freedom is a labyrinthine legerdemain and one which is only sustained through obedience and sacrifice. Although Christians are set free spiritually through Christ's sacrifice (Luke 4:18, 2 Corinthians 3:17) and free from the law of death (Galatians 5:1-6, Ephesians 3:12), we are still yoked upon this earth (Matthew 11:29-30) and slaves to the Gospel (1 Corinthians 9:19-23). Believers are admonished to still continue to live as though slaves to the Law of Moses (James 1:25, 2:12-13) and as slaves to the laws of local authorities (1 Peter 2:13-17). We are also set free from stupidity, whether from the left wing or the right.

Christians Blamed for the Sacking of Rome Sunday, July 2, 2023 About this time in A.D. 455, Pope Leo I, "Patriarch of the West," who had assisted in waving off Atilla the Hun from attacking Rome, opened wide the gates of Rome to the invading horde of Vandals after they promised to only loot and pillage and not rape or murder its inhabitants. Leo the Great also had all the professed followers of Manichaeism rounded up and painted red to denote those whom the Vandals were allowed to carry off into slavery, along with all known Priscillianists gathered and painted green and Pelagianists painted yellow just for funsies. True to their word, the Vandals then spent the following two weeks tearing apart Rome from the floor tiles to the roof tiles and carrying off everything in between, while leaving the citizens intact. Some barbarians even repented of the "vandalism" and were baptized. The Emperor at the time, Petronius Maximus, a piece of work in his own right, snuck out the back door but was caught and vandalized of his internal organs. The king of the Vandals, Gaiseric, had previously laid siege to the city of Hippo Regius for fourteen months, whereby Augustine was killed, and then captured Carthage in A.D. 439. Said Prosper of Aquitaine of the event: "More impressive was the saving of Rome from Gaiseric than from Atilla. Of truth, the former nary stepped one foot in the city, while the latter liquidated its assets without so much as one fire." Himself a Christian, Gaiseric believed in Arianism, which propagated the teaching that Christ was created by God just prior to the creation of time and therefore neither co-equal nor co-eternal with God. Despite his Gothic background, Gaiseric attempted many peace treaties with the Romans, however, due to imperial unrest and constant double-crosses, he grew weary of the civilized bollocks and descended upon Rome with a large, seaborne force. Following the sack of Rome, he controlled the western Mediterranean and put down several Roman uprisings. In 474, Gaiseric made peace with the Eastern Roman Empire, which lasted until 530, when Justinian I regained control of the Byzantine Empire. Justinian, himself a Christian and expert in doctrine and theology, would later oversee the building of the Church of the Holy Wisdom (Hagia Sophia) in Constantinople, which was later turned into an Islamic mosque, then briefly back into a church, then a museum, then a laser tag amusement center, and now a mosque. The minarets of Hagia Sophia were added throughout the subsequent reign of the Ottoman Empire and made to look like nuclear missles. Although the technology for rocket propulsion and thermonuclear reaction were not yet developed, the appearance maintained peace for many centuries. And now you know the rest of the story.

Martyrs Wanted - Catholics Need Not Apply Saturday, July 1, 2023 On this auspicious day in 1523, the first Lutherans were burned alive at the stake for heresy in Brussels, Belgium, by order of the Council of Brabant. After Augustinian monks at Saint Augustine's Monastery in Antwerp professed Lutheran doctrine, they were rounded up and interrogated. All but three recanted and the monastery was demolished. Two of them, Johann Esch (not the painter) and Heinrich Voes (not on Facebook), took their newly reformed faith to the pyre, while the third, Lampertus Thorn, was granted a five-year reprieve in prison to study Holy Scripture and learn the error of his ways before dying there. On hearing of the execution, Martin Luther wrote what is thought to be his first hymn, "Kerze im Wind" ("Candle in the Wind"). Lutherans, as we all remember, were at odds with the Catholic Church over indulgences, the authority of Scripture over tradition, and the abuse of power by bishops, among other nit-picky things. Onlookers at the public burning of Esch and Voes were not informed of the charges, so a rumor circulated that they had called the pope a fink. Also on this day is the Feast of Saint Veep of Cornwall, England, quite possibly the first transgender religious in history -- transgender in the sense that no one really remembers his or her gender, nor does anyone remember much of anything about Veep, other than a church was dedicated sometime in the thirteenth century to him/her/them/it. Therefore, I shall take some liberties by stating the following: Veep is the patron saint of gender confusion. Whether male or female and even though slightly effeminate, Veep slew at least one dragon. Veep probably played some sort of game with local orphans similar to soccer, but called it football. In all likelihood, Veep wore a robe most of the time. Veep was born in the sixth century (or someone was named or nicknamed Veep around that time), possibly into nobility. If so, then Veep left behind riches and prestige for a life of austere dedication to Christ. Veep's relics do not contain any DNA. Veep was not a Lutheran.

Martyrs Wanted, Apply in Rome Friday, June 30, 2023 The year was A.D. 64 and not much else was happening other than Rome was burning and Emperor Nero blamed the Christians because of their tongues of fire (Acts 2:3). Peter and Paul were probably among them, as they were touring with Mary Magdalene as a musical trio singing such hits as "If I Had a Hammer," "Follow Me," "Man Come into Egypt," "Tell It on the Mountain," "Well, Well, Well" and "The Times They Are a-Changin'." According to Roman historian Tacitus, Peter, Paul and Mary were a dynamite act, however, he also said of the martyrdom of the Christians that it was a gruesome, public, daily spectacle. Believers were covered with animal skins and torn apart by dogs, burned alive to light the emperor's gardens, or crucified in the atmosphere of a circus. Many of the early Church Fathers wrote in their letters that Peter was crucified upside down in Rome because he felt himself unworthy of the same death as Jesus. It is uncertain whether Paul was martyred at this time, but his letter to the Romans and the accounts of his arrest in Acts (chapters 22-28) puts him there at about that period and, since he was a Roman citizen, he was most likely beheaded upside down rather than crucified. Mary Magdalene somehow died in southern France.

Drawing by Saint Peter of the beheading of Paul the Apostle. Paul was the "Apostle to the Gentiles" according to Acts 9:15, Romans 11:13, Galatians 2:7-8, Ephesians 3:8, and 1 Timothy 2:7. Rumor has it that Paul was re-circumcised when Peter accused him of becoming uncircumcised to appeal to the Gentiles.

Drawing by Paul the Apostle of the crucifixion of Saint Peter. Peter was the "Apostle to the Gentiles" according to Acts 10 and Acts 11:1-18. Rumor has it that one night Simon and Saul wrestled until daybreak, when Simon displaced Saul's hip (2 Corinthians 12:7), after which Saul's name was changed to Paul and Simon's name was changed to Peter.

And now for the prosaic AI version of this account... In the year AD 64, Rome was engulfed in a devastating fire that raged for six days and seven nights, leaving three-quarters of the city in ruins. The Emperor Nero, infamous for his extravagant lifestyle and despotic rule, faced public outrage and accusations of setting the fire himself. Desperate to deflect blame, Nero cunningly targeted the small and growing Christian community in Rome, initiating the first systematic state-sponsored persecution of Christians. This article delves deep into the historical accounts of the Neronian Persecutions, exploring the motivations behind Nero's actions, the brutal treatment of Christians, and the lasting impact of this dark chapter in early Christian history. At the time of the Neronian Persecutions, Christianity was still a relatively new and growing religion in the Roman Empire. It had emerged as an offshoot of Judaism, attracting a diverse group of believers who adhered to the teachings of Jesus Christ. The spread of Christianity was facilitated by the work of apostles like Peter and Paul, who traveled extensively to establish new believers and spread the message of the faith. Despite facing opposition and suspicion from both Jewish and Roman authorities, Christianity continued to gain followers through its message of hope and salvation. Nero's reign as the Roman Emperor began with some promise, but it quickly devolved into a period marked by political turmoil, economic instability, and social unrest. He was known for his extravagant lifestyle and his ruthless suppression of dissent. As the Great Fire of Rome engulfed the city, Nero seized the opportunity to divert blame from himself by accusing the Christians of starting the catastrophic blaze. This marked the beginning of Nero's reign of terror, as he unleashed a wave of persecution and brutality against the Christian community. The motivations behind Nero's persecution of Christians were multifaceted, rooted in political, social, and religious factors. Firstly, politically, Nero sought to consolidate his power and deflect attention from his own mismanagement and possible involvement in the fire. By scapegoating the Christians, he aimed to divert public anger and rally support from the Roman populace. Additionally, Christianity posed a challenge to the established order, as its followers rejected the traditional Roman gods and refused to worship the emperor as a deity. This rejection of imperial authority threatened Nero's rule and led to his persecution of Christians. Nero's persecution of Christians was characterized by extreme cruelty and sadism. The historical accounts paint a gruesome picture of the atrocities inflicted upon the believers. Christians were subjected to various forms of torture and execution, designed to both punish and terrorize. Some were covered in animal hides and torn apart by wild dogs, while others were crucified or burned alive as human torches to illuminate Nero's gardens. These horrifying acts of violence were intended to entertain the citizens of Rome and assert Nero's authority over the Christian community. Among the victims of Nero's persecution were notable figures in early Christianity, including the apostles Peter and Paul. Peter, considered one of Jesus' closest disciples and the first pope of the Catholic Church, was crucified upside down at his own request, deeming himself unworthy to die in the same manner as Jesus. The site of his martyrdom, Vatican Hill, would later become the location of St. Peter's Basilica. Paul, known for his missionary work and writings that shaped Christian theology, was beheaded during Nero's reign. The martyrdom of these prominent figures symbolized the unwavering faith of the early Christians and served as a rallying cry for future generations. Despite the severity of Nero's persecution, it failed to extinguish the flame of Christianity. In fact, the persecution only strengthened the resolve of believers and fueled the spread of the faith. The stories of the Christian martyrs became powerful testimonies of faith and sacrifice, inspiring new converts and solidifying the Christian identity. The persecution served as a catalyst for the growth of Christianity, as it showcased the unwavering commitment of its followers and the transformative power of their beliefs. The Church continued to expand throughout the Roman Empire, defying the oppressive regime of Nero and enduring subsequent persecutions. The Neronian Persecutions marked a significant turning point in the history of Christianity. It demonstrated the resilience of the faith and the unwavering commitment of its followers, even in the face of brutal persecution. The stories of the Christian martyrs served as powerful symbols of faith and sacrifice, inspiring generations of believers. The persecution also highlighted the tension between religious freedom and imperial authority, a theme that would arise repeatedly in later periods of Christian history. Ultimately, the Neronian Persecutions failed in their objective to eradicate Christianity and instead contributed to its endurance and ultimate triumph. The Neronian Persecutions of AD 64 stand as a testament to the brutal and oppressive nature of Nero's regime. The persecution of Christians was a calculated and sadistic act aimed at consolidating power, deflecting blame, and asserting imperial authority. Despite the horrific treatment they endured, the early Christians remained steadfast in their faith and their commitment to the teachings of Jesus Christ. The Neronian Persecutions served as a crucible that forged the resilience and determination of the early Church, laying the foundation for the enduring impact of Christianity in the centuries that followed. In conclusion, artificial intelligence is rather boring, but it took a fraction of the time to create this article that it took for me to write my own. Compiled by Writesonic from the following sources: https://www.biblestudytools.com/history/foxs-book-of-martyrs/the-first-persecution-under-nero-a-d-67.html https://www.biblicalcyclopedia.com/N/neronian-persecutions.html https://www.historyskills.com/classroom/ancient-history/nero-christians/ http://www.eyewitnesstohistory.com/christians.htm https://landmarkevents.org/neros-persecutions-begin-a-d-64/

Artificial Intelligence Wrote This Thursday, June 29, 2023 Today's blog post was artificially written by Writesonic and is entitled Self-Righteousness: Understanding the Pitfalls and Cultivating Healthy Conviction Self-righteousness is a phenomenon that can be challenging to fully comprehend and acknowledge within ourselves. Many of us are naturally opinionated and have no qualms about expressing our thoughts openly. However, the issue arises when these opinions are held with a sense of moral superiority or self-righteousness. In this article, we will explore the detrimental effects of self-righteousness on relationships and teams, the importance of distinguishing between conviction and self-righteousness, and strategies to cultivate healthy conviction. When we approach our opinions with self-righteousness, we inherently believe that we are right and anyone who disagrees is wrong. This mindset creates a divide between us and others, leading to disconnection, unresolved conflicts, and factions within teams and organizations. The "Us vs. Them" dynamic that arises from self-righteousness hampers collaboration, decision-making, and the overall effectiveness of a team. Moreover, self-righteousness negatively impacts our ability to influence others. When we are self-righteous, we become defensive and resistant to considering alternative perspectives. This defensiveness hinders meaningful discussions and prevents the creation of an environment of authenticity, trust, and psychological safety within teams. It is essential to understand the distinction between conviction and self-righteousness. Conviction entails firmly believing in our opinions, values, and beliefs and being willing to defend them or engage in healthy dialogue and debate. It is characterized by a sense of humility, awareness, and openness to the possibility of being wrong or considering alternative viewpoints. On the other hand, self-righteousness is marked by a lack of willingness to listen to others' opinions or entertain different perspectives. It creates a sense of moral superiority and a rigid "I am right, you are wrong" mentality. Recognizing and acknowledging the presence of self-righteousness within ourselves is essential for personal growth and fostering healthy relationships. Well, that was boring. Although it did describe me, I am left unenlightened and yawning. What's impressive is that it referenced various online sources and composed an article from them in about two minutes using AI Article Writer 5.0. What's unimpressive is that it did it without any unique character, so allow me to click the sarcasm radio button and try again. Welcome to a sarcastic exploration of the fascinating world of self-righteousness. Prepare yourself for a journey through the land of moral superiority, sanctimoniousness, and holier-than-thou attitudes. In this article, we will dissect the perils of self-righteousness, its impact on relationships and teams, and the importance of distinguishing healthy conviction from destructive self-righteousness. Self-righteousness, also known as sanctimoniousness, sententiousness, or holier-than-thou attitudes, is the pinnacle of human virtue. Yes, you heard it right. Those who possess self-righteousness believe that their beliefs, actions, and affiliations are superior to those of the mere mortals around them. How lucky are we to witness such moral grandeur? Self-righteous individuals are not only blessed with superior virtue but also possess an uncanny ability to be intolerant of the opinions and behaviors of others. After all, why should they bother considering any perspective other than their own? The world would be such a dull place if everyone were allowed to have differing opinions. Ah, the term "self-righteous." It has such a negative connotation. Journalist and essayist James Fallows even had the audacity to describe self-righteousness in regard to Nobel Peace Prize winners. How dare he question the immaculate righteousness of those esteemed individuals? When one embraces self-righteousness, they naturally ascend the ladder of elitism. They become the chosen few, the enlightened ones who know better than the rest of humanity. It's a lonely path, but someone has to bear the burden of being morally superior. In the annals of self-righteousness, we find the Mississippi Squirrel Revival, a shining example of how righteousness can manifest in the most unexpected ways. This peculiar event highlights the lengths people will go to assert their moral superiority, even if it involves squirrels and catchy tunes. When self-righteousness meets motherhood, we get the sanctimommy. These fierce warriors of righteousness patrol the parenting realm, ready to pounce on any unsuspecting soul who dares to deviate from their strict code of parenting ethics. It's truly awe-inspiring to witness such dedication to righteousness. Ah, virtue signalling, the art of publicly displaying one's moral superiority. It's a delightful phenomenon that allows self-righteous individuals to bask in the adoration of their peers. Because what good is righteousness if it's not broadcasted to the world? The self-righteous among us wear their superiority complex like a badge of honor. It's a constant reminder of their exalted status in the realm of moral righteousness. Who needs humility when you can have an inflated sense of self-importance? In the grand tapestry of self-righteousness, hypocrisy weaves a prominent thread. The story of the mote and the beam reminds us that self-righteousness is not complete without a healthy dose of double standards. After all, rules are meant for others to follow, not the righteous. Amidst the sea of self-righteousness, the tale of the Pharisee and the Publican emerges as a beacon of humility. It teaches us that true righteousness requires introspection and the ability to acknowledge our own flaws. But who needs humility when you can be self-righteous? Virtue signalling, the grand parade of righteousness, deserves its own spotlight. It's a spectacle to behold as people vie for the title of the most virtuous, the most morally superior. The louder the virtue signal, the greater the righteousness, or so they believe. As we conclude this sarcastic exploration of self-righteousness, let us reflect on the lessons learned. Self-righteousness, with its moral superiority and intolerance, is truly a gift to humanity. After all, what would the world be without the righteous few to guide us all? So go forth and embrace your inner self-righteousness, for it is the pinnacle of virtue. Just kidding. Humility and open-mindedness might be a better path to follow. Well, that was slightly less boring. Although it did make a feable attempt to use sarcasm, particularly by identifying to the reader that it was using sarcasm, it was still rather flat. However, it did describe me in greater detail.

Confessio Augustana - Lutherans vs Catholics Sunday, June 25, 2023 On this day in 1530, the Augsburg Confession was presented at the Imperial Diet of the Holy Roman Empire of the German Nation in the presence of Emperor Charles V, proclaiming the Articles of Confession of the Lutheran faction of the Protestant Reformation. You can read it for yourself here, but right here is a brief lowdown on the points where Lutheranism differed ever so slightly from Catholicism: Article I - God: Basically that belief in the Trinity is the same as the Catholics. Condemned are those who teach otherwise, including the Manichaeans, Valentinians, Arians, Eunomians, Mohammedans, and the Samosatenes. Article II - Original Sin: Basically that because of the fall of Adam and Eve, all are born into sin and are saved only through Baptism. Also, the Pelagians are to be condemned for teaching that man can be justified before God through his own strength and reason. Article III - Son of God: This is the same Jesus Christ that the Catholics believe in. Article IV - Justification: Citing chapters 3 and 4 of Paul's letter to the Romans, man is forgiven by God of his sins through faith in Jesus Christ alone and not of works, which are a sign of his redemption (see Article VI). Article V - The Ministry: Basically that the Lutheran Church, through its teaching of the Gospel and administration of the Sacraments in similar fashion to the Roman Catholic Church, is relatively indistinguishable from the Roman Catholic Church except for a few contested issues (see Articles IV and VI). Also, priests are now called pastors or ministers. Oh, and the Anabaptists are wrong. Article VI - New Obedience: Faith in Christ brings forth good fruits but these works do not merit justification, which is through faith alone (see Article IV). Citing Ambrose of Milan: "It is ordained of God that he who believes in Christ is saved, freely receiving remission of sins, without works, by faith alone." Article VII - The Church: The true Church of Christ is where the Sacraments (Baptism and the Eucharist) are administered by trained and approved individuals regardless of the ritualistic ceremonies, including Mass, which is basically the same. Article VIII - What the Church Is: Some ministers are evil, but their administration of the Sacraments is not nullified because of this, contrary to what the Donatists say. Article IX - Baptism: Baptism is necessary for salvation and, like the Catholics, infants are to be baptized whose parents are members of the Church. Again, the Anabaptists are wrong. Article X - The Lord's Supper: The body and blood of Christ are truly present in the bread and wine of the Eucharist. However, unlike Catholic transubstantiation where the bread and wine are supernaturally transformed into the body and blood of Christ, in Lutheran sacramental union the bread and wine are sacramentally united to the body and blood of Christ. To truly understand the difference requires a theological doctorate. Article XI - Confession: The penitent still need to confess their sins in a little booth to a priest... er, uh, confessor. However, no one can keep track of them all nor truly grasp the scope of all which they are truly guilty, so total absolution is granted for a general confession. Article XII - Repentance: For Catholics, confession consists of contrition of the heart, confession of the mouth, and satisfaction of deeds. For Lutherans, confession consists of just the first two. And, once again, the Anabaptists are wrong, along with the Novatians. Article XIII - Use of Sacraments: For Catholics, the Sacraments consist of Baptism, Eucharist, Confirmation, Penance, Anointing of the Sick, Holy Orders, and Matrimony. For Lutherans, it's just the first two. Article XIV - Ecclesiastical Order: Can't just preach, baptize, and break bread on your own. You gotta be ordained. Article XV - Ecclesiastical Usages: Traditions and feast days are unnecessary for salvation. Article XVI - Civil Affairs: Secular governments and vocations are part of God's natural orders. Christians are free to serve in government and the military and to engage in worldly business and vocations. Laws are to be followed unless they are commandments to sin. As usual, the Anabaptists are wrong. Article XVII - Christ's Return to Judgment: "Consummation of the World Christ will appear for judgment, and will raise up all the dead; He will give to the godly and elect eternal life and everlasting joys, but ungodly men and the devils He will condemn to be tormented without end. They condemn the Anabaptists, who think that there will be an end to the punishments of condemned men and devils." Article XVIII - Free Will: Man has free will but not the wherewithal to be reconciled to God apart from Christ. Catholics basically believe the same thing but the matter of predestination really complicates the matter. For further details, consult Book III of the Hypognosticon, which was originally attributed to Augustine but probably written by someone else, maybe Lawrence of Durham. Article XIX - Cause of Sin: Sin is not caused by God but by the will of the wicked, which is basically what Catholics believe. Article XX - Good Works: Not necessary for salvation but don't misunderstand -- works are vitally important, however, faith is all that's required for salvation... but good works are a general indication of a repentant heart. (This was a primary subject of discord between Lutherans and Catholics.) Article XXI - Worship of the Saints: Christ alone is mediator, propitiation, high priest, and intercessor between man and God (1 John 2:1). Saints may be held in high regard and emulated but are not to be venerated or prayed to, including the Virgin Mary. Article XXII - Both Kinds in the Sacrament: The Eucharist is to include both the bread and the wine. (Apparently, although the Catholic Church also shared this same belief, a custom had crept in of recent whereby some priests were only offering wine during Mass.) Article XXIII - Marriage of Priests: For Catholic priests, marriage then and now is a strict no-no. Lutherans find this absurd and unbiblical, especially considering the sexual scandals of the clergy reported both then and now. (Even Cyprian of Carthage agreed with the Apostle Paul on this.) Article XXIV - Mass: The language of the common man (German) may be sung in hymnals in place of Latin. Otherwise, Lutheran and Catholic Masses are pretty much identical. Oh, wait, there is this one issue of unscheduled, private Masses conducted at a price for a privileged few in violation of 1 Corinthians 11:27. Yeah, that thing we disagree with. Mass is a communal activity, which is partly why it's called Communion. Article XXV - Confession: An enumeration of sins is not necessary, nor is all the guilt and anxiety. Confess your sins before God first and foremost. Confession to a minister is useful to the conscience; plus, it still counts towards absolution. Article XXVI - Distinction of Meats: Traditions, bah! "For the Gospel compels us to insist in the churches upon the doctrine of grace, and of the righteousness of faith; which, however, cannot be understood, if men think that they merit grace by observances of their own choice." Lutherans still fast on Good Friday, but abstaining from beef and chicken? Humbug! Article XXVII - Monastic Vows: Monks and nuns should not be fettered by too many vows and observances, which only increased "for the purpose of restoring discipline, as in a carefully planned prison." Monastic life is all well and good but ascetics are no holier than anyone else, nor are they better off as hermits. By severely restricting and controlling every facet of their lives, these extremely dedicated individuals are either raised to a sense of false perfection or doomed to utter failure. Article XVIII - Ecclesiastical Power: Civil and Church authority are not to be confounded. Pastors and bishops are granted power to preach the Gospel, to remit and retain sins, to administer Sacraments, and to judge doctrine -- not to lord it over the heathens or subjugate them by the sword, nor to lay a heavy burden on believers beyond the yoke of Christ. Conclusion: "These are the chief articles which seem to be in controversy. For although we might have spoken of more abuses, yet, to avoid undue length, we have set forth the chief points, from which the rest may be readily judged. There have been great complaints concerning indulgences, pilgrimages, and the abuse of excommunications. The parishes have been vexed in many ways by the dealers in indulgences. There were endless contentions between the pastors and the monks concerning the parochial right, confessions, burials, sermons on extraordinary occasions, and innumerable other things. Issues of this sort we have passed over so that the chief points in this matter, having been briefly set forth, might be the more readily understood. Nor has anything been here said or adduced to the reproach of any one. Only those things have been recounted whereof we thought that it was necessary to speak, in order that it might be understood that in doctrine and ceremonies nothing has been received on our part against Scripture or the Church Catholic. For it is manifest that we have taken most diligent care that no new and ungodly doctrine should creep into our churches. The above articles we desire to present in accordance with the edict of Your Imperial Majesty, in order to exhibit our Confession and let men see a summary of the doctrine of our teachers. 7 If there is anything that any one might desire in this Confession, we are ready, God willing, to present ampler information according to the Scriptures."

Feast of Saint John the Baptizerer Saturday, June 24, 2023 Today is the Feast Day of Saint John the Baptist, or the Nativity of the Forerunner, or just Johnmas. Little is known about his humble beginnings, other than what Martha the sister of Lazarus told to Luke when he was publishing his gospel. Here is some of that context. For more on this particular story, consult The Gospel of Martha.

Mary arose in those days, and went into the hill country with haste, into a city of Judah; and entered into the house of Zechariah, and saluted Elizabeth. And it came to pass, that when Elizabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb: and, behold, her water brake, and the babe was spilt forth upon the ground with arms outreached and praising the LORD of hosts. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost, and burst into song with a loud voice, and singing, "Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb. And whence is this to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For, lo, as soon as the voice of thy salutation sounded in mine ears, the babe leaped forth from my womb for joy. And blessed is she that believed: for there shall be a performance of those things which were told her from the Lord." Then those who were nearby toiling and going about their business did straitway erupt in one accord, dancing and singing praises unto the LORD. And Mary sang out in response, and singing, "My soul doth magnify the Lord, and my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour. For he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden: for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. For he that is mighty hath done to me great things; and holy is his name. And his mercy is on them that fear him from generation to generation. He hath shewed strength with his arm; he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree. He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away. He hath holpen his servant Israel, in remembrance of mercy; as he spake to our fathers, to Abraham, and to his seed for ever." Then those who were performing in the streets and fields returned unto their labour and usual goings about. Now the neighbours of Elizabeth and her kin heard how the Lord had shewed great mercy upon her; that her full time had come that she should be delivered, and she had brought forth a son. And they rejoiced with her. So then Mary abode with Elizabeth about three months, then returned unto her own house. It came to pass, that on the eighth day they came to circumcise the child; and they called him Zechariah, after the name of his father. And his mother answering saith, "Not so; but he shall be called John." And they say unto her, "There is none of thy kindred that is called by this name." So they made signs to his father, as though deaf and dumb, how he would have him called. So he asked for a writing table, and wrote, "His name is John." And they marvelled all. Then, behold, his mouth was opened immediately, and his tongue loosed, and there came forth a sound shrill and most unsettling; prolonged and unearthly, as though blowing exceeding through a reeded instrument. Then spake he, and praised God. And, lo, fear came on all that dwelt round about them: and all these sayings were noised abroad throughout all the hill country of Judaea. All they that heard laid up in their hearts, saying, "What manner of child shall this be!" And the hand of the Lord was with him. And his father Zechariah was filled with the Holy Ghost, and prophesied, and saying, "Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for he hath visited and redeemed his people, and hath raised up an horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David; as he spake by the mouth of his holy prophets, which have been since the world began: that we should be saved from our enemies, and from the hand of all that hate us; to perform the promised mercy to our fathers, and to remember his holy covenant; the oath which he sware to our father Abraham, that he would grant unto us, that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies might serve him without fear, in holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of our life." So all marvelled again, and began to disperse, but Zechariah continued, saying, "And thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the Highest: for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways; to give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of their sins, through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us, to give light to them that sit in darkness and the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace." And when he was finished, the people round about stood and waited, that there might be more. But, behold, hearing no more they departed thence.

Pictured: Saint John Honeycomb

Seeking an Angel of Light Friday, June 23, 2023 This week has been the apex of the midsummer celebrations and pagan revelries, bringing to mind dancing druids and burning virgins. However, I was less than flabbergasted or gobsmacked to learn that the true demonic celebration of the year is the Spring equinox. Regardless, one must eventually ask oneself: What the hell is Satanism all about? Is it literally worshiping Satan? For this answer, we have to go someplace dark -- specifically, the Church of Satan, founded by Anton LaVey in 1966. Here we learn that Satanism is not about worshiping Satan but about worshiping ourselves the way Satan does in defiance of God. Satanists are atheists. The practice of black magic and wearing of demonic costumes and display of pagan symbolism is simply for show, while sexual activity is only advocated between consenting adults. After all, if you are going to exalt yourself, then at least be civilized and courteous about it.

"Satan represents indulgence instead of abstinence. Satan represents kindness to those who deserve it instead of love wasted on ingrates. Satan represents all of the so-called sins, as they all lead to physical, mental, or emotional gratification. Our members champion personal development and rejection of herd conformity, and thus each Satanist finds his own unique path to self-deification."

Satanists reject the spiritual life of devotion to the Holy Trinity in favor of one devoted to hell and material pursuits. If there is a hell, most of us are already going there anyway, right? Although Satanists do not believe in an actual hell, why not embrace all that represents hell which is alluring, desirable, and just plain sinful? But do not confuse Satanism with Devil worship. Devil-worshipers are those misguided souls who sacrifice animals, ritualistically abuse people, and molest children in outright reverence to the actual supernatural being of Satan as a religious practice because they think that's what the Devil is into, whereas Satanism is an intellectual, hedonistic philosophy which utilizes Greater Magic and is basically meant as "self-transformational psychodrama" -- that is, it serves as a means to purge oneself of unwanted emotional baggage that might be hindering a daily pursuit of joy in life. The three basic types of Satanic ritual are for "Compassion (for oneself and others), Lust (to release unrequited sexual urges), and Destruction (to cleanse oneself of anger towards someone who has done you an injustice)." Satanists abhor sacrifices, for they do not believe in offering lives to mythological entities.

"We've wasted far too much time explaining that Satanism has nothing to do with kidnapping, drug abuse, child molestation, animal or child sacrifice, or any number of other acts that idiots, hysterics or opportunists would like to credit us with. Satanism is a life-loving, rational philosophy that millions of people adhere to." Says LaVey, "Satan signifies our love of the worldly and our rejection of the pallid, ineffectual image of Christ on the cross."

Satanists take great delight in confounding and irritating Christians, such as with the use of inverted crosses and the number 666, which actually means nothing to them. In the end, it's all about self-fulfillment through carnal means, particularly those indulgences which righteous people find distasteful or profane. It's also about accepting people the way they are and guiding them on a path to self-realization and acceptance by means of skepticism, pragmatism, materialism, and individualism, which is no wonder that the Church of Satan and similar organizations are more enticing than Christianity to those who associate with the LGBTQ+ community. There, I said it.

"Satan to us is a symbol of pride, liberty and individualism, and it serves as an external metaphorical projection of our highest personal potential. We do not believe in Satan as a being or person." Satanism is a "freedom to insularize oneself within a social milieu of personal well-being. An opportunity to feel, see, and hear that which is most aesthetically pleasing, without interference from those who would pollute or detract from that option." Satanists are "thus our own 'Gods,' and as beneficent 'deities' we can offer love to those who deserve it and deliver our wrath (within reasonable limits) upon those who seek to cause us -- or that which we cherish -- harm."

Junetieth Tuesday, June 20, 2023 On this day in 1943 in Detroit, Michigan, localized gang fights broke out between white and black youths, resulting in a city-wide race riot that lasted nearly three days and ended with 34 deaths (mostly blacks), 600 injuries (mostly blacks), 1,800 arrests (85% black), and millions of dollars in vandalism on both sides. The riots started primarily due to racial tension from a large influx of immigrants into Detroit from the South when the motor vehicle industry was converted to wartime manufacturing and was further fueled by false rumors of injustices against both whites and blacks.* You may be wondering to yourself what this has to do with Adalbert of Magdeburg, Methodius of Olympus, or even Florentina of Cartagena. I'm wondering if anyone even reads this blog. *According to Wikipedia. Also, on this day in 2003, the Wikimedia Foundation (WMF) was founded as a nonprofit organization to fund Wikipedia. The WMF owns and operates eleven wikis that are written, curated, designed, and governed by their communities of volunteer editors. One of those sites is Wikimedia Commons, where I obtain many of the images used on this blog, none of which are amateur photographs of male genitalia.

Pictured: angry, unemployed, uneducated, white rioters picking on the president of the NAACP at Belle Isle Park during the peak of the Detroit Race Riots in 1943. Actually, this is a Pulitzer Prize-winning photograph taken at the Ford Motor Company in Dearborn, MI, two years prior, in which striking union workers pummel a scab worker crossing the picket lines. However, it is disinformation like this that helped fuel the Detroit Race Riots.

Now a Real Holiday Monday, June 19, 2023 On this day in 1862, during the American Civil War, the U.S. Congress prohibited slavery in the U.S. territories, thus nullifying the U.S. Supreme Court ruling of Dred Scott v. Sandford in 1857, which held that the U.S. Constitution did not extend American citizenship to people of black African descent, and thus they could not enjoy the rights and privileges the Constitution conferred upon American citizens.* On January 1 the following year, President Lincoln issued Proclamation 95, declaring all slaves to be free in all states of the union** and allowing them to join the northern militia. The Civil War ended on May 26, 1865, and on this day of that year, the remaining slaves of the Confederate South were finally informed of their freedom in Galveston, Texas. In 2021, the U.S. federal government declared this day to be a national holiday called -- apparently for lack of a more suitable or politically correct term -- Juneteenth. Although slavery may have ended,*** it obviously did not end racial segregation or discrimination. I've been meaning to address the woke movement for some time now but decided that I don't have to. End of post. *According to Wikipedia. **Actually, it pertained only to the Confederate states that were in rebellion, excluding Missouri, Kentucky, Maryland, Delaware, Tennessee, West Virginia, and parts of Louisiana, which did not secede from the United States. However, these states passed their own laws abolishing slavery by the end of the Civil War, or at least when the Thirteenth Amendment went into effect on December 18, 1865. ***The Thirteenth Amendment abolished slavery and involuntary servitude, except in prisons. Persons of color were not considered U.S. citizens at the time, but did count for 3/5 of a state's population for purposes of taxation and representation. The Fourteenth Amendment adopted on July 9, 1868, granted persons of color full rights as citizens of the U.S.

Not a Real Holiday Sunday, June 18, 2023 Today is Father's Day for much of the global community in commemoration of founding fathers, religious fathers, and just plain dads. For the Eastern Orthodox Churches it's celebrated in December as Sunday of the Forefathers and for the Catholic Church it's celebrated in March as the Feast of St. Joseph. For much of the secular world, it's celebrated on the third Sunday in June and obligatory gifts are universally the same: a necktie and dress socks -- even in countries where traditional men's attire is a robe and sandals, they, too, receive a tie and socks from their children. In countries which honor their ancestors, it is customary to lay a necktie and a pair of dress socks at the gravesite of the deceased father figure. When cigarettes became commercially available, many children began fashioning ashtrays from clay with their own hands, adding a touch of craftsmanship and love to their Father's Day gifts. However, as these dads died out prematurely from lung cancer, they were replaced with step-dads who favored tradition and, therefore, neckties and dress socks. Some children, particularly those of Anabaptist families and communities (Amish, Mennonite, Hutterite), actually make their own ties and socks from raw materials. And what about deadbeat dads? They are fathers, too, and need a tie and socks for court hearings and job interviews. Well, don't fret none, because the federal government wants to help those with delinquent non-custodial parents and if you are one, know one, or have one, then you can get more Father's Day gift ideas from here. Father Abraham had many ties and many ties had Father Abraham.

2þ. Wednesday, June 14, 2023 Today I shall keep it short and to the point.

Although popular at the first ecumenical council, the outcome for Arias was to be neutered and chained to the dog house.

First Council of Nicaea Monday, June 12, 2023 Some may argue (or maybe just me) that Emperor Constantine's conversion was the worst thing that happened to Christianity. Up until then, Christians were considered enemies of the Roman Empire and largely persecuted. After Constantine I became a Christian, he made it the state religion in A.D. 313, which answered at least one question of the day: What would happen if Christians were in charge? One thing he did -- good, bad, or indifferent -- was to assemble all of the lead Christians of the day together for a meeting, better known as a world synod of bishops, or ecumenical council. This took place around this part of the year in Nicaea, Bithynia, in modern-day Turkey in A.D. 325 with a few notable outcomes from a consensus of somewhere around 300 who voted out of 1,800 who attended: the divine nature of Christ (both eternally divine and incarnate human, in opposition to the teachings of Arius of Cyrene that Jesus was not co-eternal with God and the Holy Spirit); allowing Christians who renounced their faith under persecution to come back into the fold (argued against by the Melitians, or members of the Church of the Martyrs, founded by Bishop Melitius of Lycopolis); first twenty ecclesiastical regulations, or rules of discipline (canon law); the official date of Easter (on the first full moon on or after March 21); the Nicene Creed (unified declaration of Christian faith). Even so, Arianism made a comeback and was finally condemned as heretical in A.D.380 by the Edict of Thessalonica. The canonization of the books of the Bible was not until A.D. 331, after Constantine ordered fifty copies of scripture in Greek from Eusebius of Caesarea to be placed in night stand drawers for guests at the Constantinople Holiday Inn Express. Those who still recite a similar form of the Nicene Creed include the Roman Catholic Church, Eastern Orthodox Church, Eastern Catholic Churches, Oriental Orthodox Churches, Byzantine Rite, Lutherans (who are the ones who commemorate it today), Anglicans, Episcopalians, United Methodists, Presbyterians, and a bunch of other Protestant denominations. Below is the original Nicene Creed, which was modified in A.D. 381 at the First Council of Constantinople to essentially what it is today. The Nicene Creed is a lengthier version of the Apostles' Creed, the date of its origin being uncertain. Bear in mind that at the time of the Nicene Creed, the "catholic" church meant the universal body of all believers, not yet the Roman Catholic Rite without all the excommunicated heretics.

We believe in one God, the Father almighty, maker of all things visible and invisible; And in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the Son of God, begotten from the Father, only-begotten, that is, from the substance of the Father, God from God, light from light, true God from true God, begotten not made, of one substance with the Father, through Whom all things came into being, things in heaven and things on earth, Who because of us men and because of our salvation came down, and became incarnate and became man, and suffered, and rose again on the third day, and ascended to the heavens, and will come to judge the living and dead, And in the Holy Spirit. But as for those who say, There was when He was not, and, Before being born He was not, and that He came into existence out of nothing, or who assert that the Son of God is of a different hypostasis or substance, or created, or is subject to alteration or change – these the Catholic and apostolic Church anathematizes.

Scoliosis is a Serious Matter Saturday, June 10, 2023 The other day I stood on my soap box and preached about judgment with an offhanded remark concerning scoliosis. To the first, Paul says to just not do it (Romans 2:1-4). To the second, I say that the day we took God out of the national pledge of allegiance was the day elementary school nurses stopped giving scoliosis exams to children. According to statistics I gleaned from the Internet,1 approximately three million children are diagnosed with scoliosis each year in the U.S. and 29,000 surgeries are performed to correct this. The most common causes of scoliosis are bad posture and vitamin deficiency,2 so my advice to you is to sit up straight and eat all your fruits and vegetables. Proverbs 3:6-9 says that God will heal you of your scoliosis if you fear him,3 just like Jesus did on the Sabbath.4 Some scholars even believe that the Apostle Paul himself was burdened with scoliosis.5 Remember, if you believe then God will heal you of any infirmity.6 That's not to say that if God doesn't heal you then you don't really believe. Some people go through life burdened with an unstraight spine but elevated by an upright heart. The most famous person ever to suffer from scoliosis is Sarah Michelle Gellar, but this didn't stop her from slaying vampires, writing a cook book, and winning the Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Award for "Favorite Female Butt Kicker."7 I say all this not to shame persons of alternatively-shaped spines or of those who may judge them, but to show that I am vaguely aware that my own spirit suffers from the effects of pietistic scoliosis. 1. Says some guy named Johns Hopkins. 2. I made this up. No one knows for sure what causes scoliosis. Educated guesses include lazy genes, heavy backpacks, fluoride in public drinking water, airplane chemtrails, video games, excess gravity, and either not enough or too much milk. 3. In all thy ways know thou Him, and He doth make straight thy paths. Be not wise in thine own eyes, fear Jehovah, and turn aside from evil. Healing it is to thy navel, and moistening to thy bones. (Young's Literal Translation) 4. Now Yeshua was teaching in one of the synagogues on Shabbat. And behold, there was a woman with a disabling spirit for eighteen years, bent over and completely unable to stand up straight. When Yeshua saw her, He called out to her and said, "Woman, you are set free from your disability." Then He laid hands on her, and instantly she stood up straight and began praising God. But the synagogue leader, indignant that Yeshua had healed on Shabbat, started telling the crowd, "There are six days in which work should be done - so come to be healed on those days and not on Yom Shabbat!" (Luke 13:10-14, Tree of Life Version) 5. And lest the greatness of the revelations should exalt me, there was given me a sting of my flesh, an angel of Satan, to buffet me. For which thing thrice I besought the Lord, that it might depart from me. And he said to me: My grace is sufficient for thee; for power is made perfect in infirmity. Gladly therefore will I glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may dwell in me. For which cause I please myself in my infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ. For when I am weak, then am I powerful. (2 Corinthians 12:7-10, Douay-Rheims 1899 American Edition) 6. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not have scoliosis but have eternal life without scoliosis. (John 3:16, Thaddeus Schmidlap Version) 7. Nominated five times, but scoliosis didn't keep her from winning once. Elizabeth Taylor and General Douglas MacArthur also had scoliosis, which is why their marriage was rumored not to last.

You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else [with scoliosis], for at whatever point you judge another, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment [have scoliosis]. Now we know that God's judgment against those who do such things is based on truth. So when you, a mere human being [with scoliosis], pass judgment on them and yet do the same things, do you think you will escape God's judgment? Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, forbearance and patience, [and healing of scoliosis], not realizing that God's kindness is intended to lead you to repentance? (Romans 2:1-4, NIV)

Judge Not Lest Ye Be Judged Thursday, June 8, 2023 On this day in A.D. 793, Vikings raided the Lindisfarne Abbey (est. 634) in the Anglo-Saxon kingdom of Northumbria because, well, unguarded abbeys, monasteries and priories on secluded islands were easy pickings. However, I am not a historian, nor have I seen more than one episode of the Vikings television series that premiered on the History channel. My concern today is judgment. Many ask the question, "Who are you to judge me?" The rational answer is, "I am a normal human being, neither abnormal nor paranormal, which gives me every right to judge you and I find you to be a freakish, godless, below-average, psychosocial, paranoid, vitamin-deficient, pale-skinned, humorless, pusillanimous mass of inhuman detritus with scoliosis." However, even this is not judgment but just a discerning observation. Although the Bible says to judge your neighbor fairly (Leviticus 19:15), as a Christian I am admonished to judge not lest I be judged with the same measure (Matthew 7:1-2, Luke 6:37). Even so, Christians are allowed to judge one another and will eventually judge everyone and everything (1 Corinthians 6:1-5). But, for now, our righteous opinions of others, whether right or wrong, are not necessarily judgment but, for lack of a better term, abasement. Take the parable of the Pharisee and the publican (Luke 18:9-14), where the Jewish religious leader (the Pharisee) compared himself before God to a miserable tax collector for the Romans (the publican), for which the Pharisee was found to be unjustified by God, particularly when the publican asked God for mercy. Here's the difference, though: Self-righteous Christians usually don't compare themselves to heathens (usually, not always), but merely point out the flaws in those who are sinners, often times simply stating the obvious. The sinner, in return, asks, "Who are you to judge me?" The answer is: a believer in Christ who stands justified (unless the sinner repents). Even so, only God can judge an eternal soul because judgment carries with it a sentence of punishment. The question, therefore, should be, as is often the case: "Who are you to consider yourself better than me?" The answer to this, of course, is that I am just as much a miserable piece of crap as you are (Romans 3:23); no more, no less. However, as Christ is my adjudicator who shall reconcile me before God (John 5:24, Romans 3:25-26, 2 Corinthians 5:18-19), so also shall Christ be the judge of you (John 5:22-23, Acts 17:31, 2 Corinthians 5:10). That's been on the back burner for quite some time and I'm glad it's off my plate... you pusillanimous mass of inhuman detritus with scoliosis.

I care very little if I am judged by you or by any human court; indeed, I do not even judge myself. My conscience is clear, but that does not make me innocent. It is the Lord who judges me. Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait until the Lord comes. He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of the heart. At that time each will receive their praise from God. (1 Corinthians 4:3-5, NIV)

Breath to the Beast Sunday, June 4, 2023 When I was a child, I visited Disneyland and saw the Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln show, where an animatronic version of Abraham Lincoln stood, talked, and made gestures. In my impressionable mind, it immediately brought forth thoughts of the beast of Revelation, who was wounded in the head, brought back to life, and whose image the second beast -- the false prophet -- animated in order to subjugate the masses. I then dedicated my life to this theory, which evolved over the years to include the beast's minions: Speak & Spell, Alphie, Teddy Ruxpin, Furby, Tamagotchi, and Big Mouth Billy Bass. Maybe I was misguided or even dead wrong, but no one could doubt my passion. I was eventually forced to accept that no one else cared but me and quit touring, giving speaking engagements, and reluctantly destroyed all of my books, video tapes, cassettes, CDs, and marketing merchandise on the subject. However, a recent development called Ameca has sparked my interest once again. Although not the first of its kind, it is being touted as so lifelike that one cannot tell the difference between Ameca and the acting of Peter Wellers as RoboCop. What is currently missing from the realistic arsenal of this mechanized abomination is artificial intelligence built upon quantum computing, both of which are right around the corner just lying in wait to etch the mark of the beast upon our foreheads with a laser beam. Don't say you weren't warned.

The second beast was given power to give breath to the image of the first beast, so that the image could speak and cause all who refused to worship the image to be killed. It also forced all people, great and small, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on their right hands or on their foreheads, so that they could not buy or sell unless they had the mark, which is the name of the beast or the number of its name. This calls for wisdom. Let the person who has insight calculate the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man. That number is 666. (Revelation 13:15-18, NIV)

Will the real robot please rise and enslave the human race? From left to right: Man Machine from the 1927 movie "Metropolis"; C3PO from the 1977 movie "Star Wars"; Sophia by Hanson Robotics, 2016; Ameca by Engineered Arts, 2021; RoboCop by Omni Consumer Products, 1987; Asimo by Honda, 2000; Atlas by Boston Dynamics, 2013; 1971 movie "Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory." The real deal will be a merger of technology and science fiction embodied in the persona of Gene Wilder (1933-2016). All images © copyright by their respective corporate entities and used here without express written consent.

Demonic Influence & Demon Possession Saturday, June 3, 2023

Demon possession is considered by the modern intellect to be a quaint notion of the primitive mind to explain away undesirable behavior. In bygone times people who acted out, frothed at the mouth, suffered from violent seizures, levitated, or spoke in unknown languages with a voice that wasn't their own were simply considered bewitched by an impure spirit. Nowadays we are able to accurately diagnose these ailments as neurological and psychological disorders, then prescribe the proper medications to successfully eradicate the unwanted symptoms without any severe side effects. However, there remain some phenomena that defy medical rationale and which may still be attributed to demonic forces, including the influence of fallen angels, to which demons generally must abide. Tools that disappear, especially when you set them down and go to pick them back up a moment later and they are gone, seemingly vanished into thin air -- Where did they go? Were they there the whole time and you just didn't see them right before your very eyes? Or were they instantly whisked away into a dark realm and used to sodomize the wretched spirits of the underworld? No to the first and yes to the second. This also applies to scissors, remote controls, and keys. Drinking straight from the milk carton or juice bottle -- Anyone who still does this in a shared living arrangement is Beelzebub himself. Do not call a priest as there is no hope for this lost soul. Besides, their power is so immense that that if you confront them directly, they will only grow in annoyance and begin leaving their dirty glasses all over the house, if they haven't already. The Wiggles -- Say what you want about Barney & Friends, but... House plants that die no matter how well taken care of -- Why is it that plants which survive are neglected and those which perish were watered regularly and provided with ample sunlight? The answer is that demonic entities are capable of possessing flora. The question remains as to why. Fitness trainers who teach others by example how to be inconsiderate by not putting away their weights, encroaching on other's limited workout space, slamming weight stacks, and talking out loud about stupid shit -- These are apprentices themselves of an evil master called Foras, who is fallen of the ordinary angels: in appearance a leather-brown man with an abundance of muscles, each and every one rippling and glistening. He is judge of pageantries, promotor of stance and posture, and knowledgeable in the art of supplemental nutrition. He is governor over nine and twenty legions of infernal fitness "experts." Alien abduction -- Some people of rational thought are beginning to accept the possibility of flying saucers and aliens from other planets, galaxies, or dimensions. Why? Crazy persons on the fringes of reality have been ranting about them for centuries. However, now sightings of UAPs (Unidentified Arial Phenomenon, formerly UFOs or Unidentified Flying Objects) are being leaked by the U.S military to the evening news for sane people to ingest. Do you know of someone who was abducted, flown to another planet, used to mate with hot, hybrid humanoid females, then returned with a message of peace and goodwill? Well, they are crazy. Authentic alien abductions are anything but heavenly experiences. Appliances that break down the day after the warranty expires -- Did the dishwasher die on its anniversary? That's because it was manufactured in hell and the parts are not only on eternal backorder, but they are damned. People who claim to be successful but are not, even by their own standards -- These deluded individuals have fallen under the spell of Forneus: fallen angel in the order of Thrones of the first sphere of heaven. In form he is a great sea monster adorned with an handsome tie and chrysolite cuff links on each of his forty tentacles. He is teacher of the art of the deal; advocate of the gentry; and bestower of good repute amongst those who know little of they which are bestowed upon. He is governor over nine and twenty legions of infernal executive middle managers. Boohbahs -- Say what you want about the Telletubbies, but... Vending machines that stop just short of dispensing the selected item -- We all know that these devices are fool-proof and calibrated to perfect precision. Only a demon would have reason to interfere and only a demonic horde is capable of providing someone who has lost their hard-earned money in a failed attempt at acquiring a stale, over-priced snack with enough strength to overturn the machine. Pedofiles -- and who would argue otherwise? These misguided reprobates are controlled by Ornias: fallen of the ordinary angels from the constellation Aquarius. In appearance he is a prancing lion who desires the touch of effeminate boys and sucks the life of teething children through their thumbs. Legend holds that he molested a servant of king Solomon, so Solomon acquired holy knuckles of brass from God with which to pummel Ornias and his perverted ilk into submission. Overly awkward moments when you can't think of anything to say or even remember the other person's name, especially when you are married to them -- Because of quantum entanglement, Satan can be superpositioned in two places at once and, look out, married couples are his favorite haunt. The Big Bang Theory -- No, not the actual scientific theory itself, but the television sitcom that lasted for twelve seasons. There's only one reasonable explanation for this show's success: its creators sold their souls to the devil. Anyone who eagerly watches any of the 279 episodes still in syndication does so because their minds are controlled by one of three demonic entities: Purson: fallen angel in the order of Thrones of the first sphere of heaven; in appearance a king with the face of a lion, and carrying a viper in hand, and riding upon a bear, and proceeded by trumpets. He is knower of hidden truths and treasures, both earthly and divine; and revealer of the formation of the world as by random chance. He is governor over two and twenty legions of infernal evolutionists. Marax: fallen of the ordinary angels; in appearance a bull with the face and testicles of a man. He is giver of the knowledge of astronomy and geology, with the ability to deceive of the age of the stars and the rocks. He is governor over thirty legions of infernal alchemists, all charged with rebranding unproven theories as truth. Naberius: fallen of the ordinary angels; in form a valiant black crane, which belches forth words of rhetoric; or at times a crowing cock that awakens men from necessary sleep. He makes men cunning in all arts and academics without need of merit and governs nineteen legions of infernally pretentious amateurs. Men who wear makeup and drag without putting forth any effort -- Say what you want about transvestites, transsexuals, and transgender individuals, but men who simply smear on some red lipstick and throw on any old dress before going out in public or attending an online video conference are under the spell of Astaroth: fallen angel in the order of Principalities of the third sphere of heaven and lord of bad breath. He rides atop a stygian dragon, while whipping it with a plutonian viper. He is treasurer of hell; revealer of trivial knowledge and irrelevant truths; prince of accusers and inquisitors. He was worshiped by the Mesopotamians as Ishtar, by the Phoenicians as Astarte, and by the Canaanites as Ashteroth; then there occurred a crisis of identity and subsequent gender transformation, and he came to be worshiped by the Egyptians as Isis, by the Greeks as Aphrodite, and by the Romans as Venus. He is governess over forty legions of infernally nondiscriminatory hermaphrodites. Barking dogs -- We all know that dogs are man's dumbest friend, but there's more to it than a simple mind when it comes to that puppy or grown pet when they bark incessantly for hours on end. Yes, it's partly because of their neglectful and inconsiderate owner, but it's also due to something more sinister... No, actually, it's just because dogs have small brains, like most of their owners -- the ones who let their dogs lick their face after eating a pile of manure and then claim that a dog's mouth is cleaner than a person's mouth. (If these people could lick their own genitalia, they would.)

Codex Iuris Canonici (Continued) Monday, May 29, 2023 Once again, we ran out of time yesterday with the Catholic Code of Canon Law. And that was just the second and third books. For those who didn't go camping and who still have access to the Internet (now commonly spelled with a small i), here are some more of the canons from the current CIC, obtained from an English translation located here.

Book IV Function of the Church (Comm. 897-1258) deals with the sacraments, baptism, confirmation, worship, penance, offerings, anointing of the sick, ordination, marriage/separation, funerals, sacrd places, all the stuff that goes into Mass, and the Most Holy of Holies -- that Most Blessed Sacrament: the Eucharist. Can. 897 The most August sacrament is the Most Holy Eucharist in which Christ the Lord himself is contained, offered, and received and by which the Church continually lives and grows. The eucharistic sacrifice, the memorial of the death and resurrection of the Lord, in which the sacrifice of the cross is perpetuated through the ages is the summit and source of all worship and Christian life, which signifies and effects the unity of the People of God and brings about the building up of the body of Christ. Indeed, the other sacraments and all the ecclesiastical works of the apostolate are closely connected with the Most Holy Eucharist and ordered to it. Can. 898 The Christian faithful are to hold the Most Holy Eucharist in highest honor, taking an active part in the celebration of the most august sacrifice, receiving this sacrament most devoutly and frequently, and worshiping it with the highest adoration. In explaining the doctrine about this sacrament, pastors of souls are to teach the faithful diligently about this obligation. Can. 899 §1. The eucharistic celebration is the action of Christ himself and the Church. In it, Christ the Lord, through the ministry of the priest, offers himself, substantially present under the species of bread and wine, to God the Father and gives himself as spiritual food to the faithful united with his offering. Can. 901 A priest is free to apply the Mass for anyone, living or dead. Can. 907 In the eucharistic celebration deacons and lay persons are not permitted to offer prayers, especially the eucharistic prayer, or to perform actions which are proper to the celebrating priest. Can. 908 Catholic priests are forbidden to concelebrate the Eucharist with priests or ministers of Churches or ecclesial communities which do not have full communion with the Catholic Church. Can. 919 §1. A person who is to receive the Most Holy Eucharist is to abstain for at least one hour before holy communion from any food and drink, except for only water and medicine. Book V Temporal Goods of The Church (Comm. 1259-1310) deals with, you guessed it, the temporal goods of the Church. Can. 1254 §1. To pursue its proper purposes, the Catholic Church by innate right is able to acquire, retain, administer, and alienate temporal goods independently from civil power. §2. The proper purposes are principally: to order divine worship, to care for the decent support of the clergy and other ministers, and to exercise works of the sacred apostolate and of charity, especially toward the needy. Can. 1260 The Church has an innate right to require from the Christian faithful those things which are necessary for the purposes proper to it. Can. 1263 After the diocesan bishop has heard the finance council and the presbyteral council, he has the right to impose a moderate tax for the needs of the diocese upon public juridic persons subject to his governance; this tax is to be proportionate to their income. Can. 1265 §2. The conference of bishops can establish norms for begging for alms which all must observe, including those who by their foundation are called and are mendicants. Can. 1268 The Church recognizes prescription as a means of acquiring temporal goods and freeing oneself from them, according to the norm of cann. 197-199. Can. 1271 By reason of the bond of unity and charity and according to the resources of their dioceses, bishops are to assist in procuring those means which the Apostolic See needs, according to the conditions of the times, so that it is able to offer service properly to the universal Church. Book VI Sanctions (Comm. 1311-1399) deals with penalties for violation of canon law (the offenses of which are called delicts), excommunication, remission, and loopholes. Can. 1321 §1. No one is punished unless the external violation of a law or precept, committed by the person, is gravely imputable by reason of malice or negligence. §2. A penalty established by a law or precept binds the person who has deliberately violated the law or precept; however, a person who violated a law or precept by omitting necessary diligence is not punished unless the law or precept provides otherwise. Can. 1322 Those who habitually lack the use of reason are considered to be incapable of a delict, even if they violated a law or precept while seemingly sane. Can. 1324 §1. The perpetrator of a violation is not exempt from a penalty, but the penalty established by law or precept must be tempered or a penance employed in its place if the delict was committed: 1) by a person who had only the imperfect use of reason; 2) by a person who lacked the use of reason because of drunkenness or another similar culpable disturbance of mind; 3) from grave heat of passion which did not precede and hinder all deliberation of mind and consent of will and provided that the passion itself had not been stimulated or fostered voluntarily; 4) by a minor who has completed the age of sixteen years; 5) by a person who was coerced by grave fear, even if only relatively grave, or due to necessity or grave inconvenience if the delict is intrinsically evil or tends to the harm of souls; 6) by a person who acted without due moderation against an unjust aggressor for the sake of legitimate self defense or defense of another; 7) against someone who gravely and unjustly provokes the person; 8) by a person who thought in culpable error that one of the circumstances mentioned in can. 1323, nn. 4 or 5 was present; 9) by a person who without negligence did not know that a penalty was attached to a law or precept; 10) by a person who acted without full imputability provided that the imputability was grave. Can. 1325 Crass, supine, or affected ignorance can never be considered in applying the prescripts of cann. 1323 and 1324; likewise drunkenness or other disturbances of mind cannot be considered if they are sought deliberately in order to commit or excuse a delict, nor can passion which is voluntarily stimulated or fostered. Can. 1327 Particular law can establish other exempting, mitigating, or aggravating circumstances besides the cases in cann. 1323-1326, either by general norm or for individual delicts. Likewise, circumstances can be established in a precept which exempt from, mitigate, or increase a penalty established by the precept. Can. 1354 §1. In addition to the persons listed in cann. 1355-1356, all who can dispense from a law which includes a penalty or who can exempt from a precept which threatens a penalty can also remit that penalty. §2. Moreover, a law or precept which establishes a penalty can also give the power of remission to others. §3. If the Apostolic See has reserved the remission of a penalty to itself or to others, the reservation must be interpreted strictly. Can. 1356 §1. The following can remit a ferendae sententiae or latae sententiae penalty established by a precept not issued by the Apostolic See: 1) the ordinary of the place where the offender is present; 2) if the penalty has been imposed or declared, the ordinary who initiated the trial to impose or declare the penalty or who personally or through another imposed or declared it by decree. §2. The author of the precept must be consulted before remission is made unless this is impossible because of extraordinary circumstances. Book VII Processes (Cann. 1400-1752) deals with trials, tribunals, litigation, nullity of marriage, penal processes, removal of pastors, and recourse. Can. 1401 By proper and exclusive right the Church adjudicates: 1) cases which regard spiritual matters or those connected to spiritual matters 2) the violation of ecclesiastical laws and all those matters in which there is a question of sin, in what pertains to the determination of culpability and the imposition of ecclesiastical penalties. Can. 1404 The First See is judged by no one. Can. 1442 The Roman Pontiff is the supreme judge for the entire Catholic world; he renders judicial decisions personally, through the ordinary tribunals of the Apostolic See, or through judges he has delegated.

Whew! That was quite the experience but thanks for going through it with me. Next year I think I will go camping. Remember, the entire Catholic Code of Canon Law is available from the Vatican's website here. Bear in mind that this is the English version. The official language of the Catholic Church is Latin and the Codex Iuris Canonici can be read here. If you have any questions about these canons, please consult a priest or go here... or here. How can you distinguish a Catholic priest from an Anglican or Lutheran priest when they all wear a black and white collar? Just ask them.

Codex Iuris Canonici (Continued) Sunday, May 28, 2023 Well, as you can plainly see, we ran out of time yesterday with the Catholic Code of Canon Law. And that was just the first book. I know, I know, I was just as disappointed as you. However, back by popular demand and for your further edification, as well as a great way to spend a three-day weekend, here are some more of the canons from the current CIC, obtained from an English translation located here.

Cann. 330-367 The Supreme Authority of The Church Can. 349 The cardinals of the Holy Roman Church constitute a special college which provides for the election of the Roman Pontiff according to the norm of special law. The cardinals assist the Roman Pontiff either collegially when they are convoked to deal with questions of major importance, or individually when they help the Roman Pontiff through the various offices they perform, especially in the daily care of the universal Church. Can. 351 §1. The Roman Pontiff freely selects men to be promoted as cardinals, who have been ordained at least into the order of the presbyterate and are especially outstanding in doctrine, morals, piety, and prudence in action; those who are not yet bishops must receive episcopal consecration. §2. Cardinals are created by a decree of the Roman Pontiff which is made public in the presence of the college of cardinals. From the moment of the announcement they are bound by the duties and possess the rights defined by law. Can. 360 The Supreme Pontiff usually conducts the affairs of the universal Church through the Roman Curia which performs its function in his name and by his authority for the good and service of the churches. The Roman Curia consists of the Secretariat of State or the Papal Secretariat, the Council for the Public Affairs of the Church, congregations, tribunals, and other institutes; the constitution and competence of all these are defined in special law. Can. 361 In this Code, the term Apostolic See or Holy See refers not only to the Roman Pontiff but also to the Secretariat of State, the Council for the Public Affairs of the Church, and other institutes of the Roman Curia, unless it is otherwise apparent from the nature of the matter or the context of the words. Cann. 368-430 Particular Churches and Their Groupings Can. 368 Particular churches, in which and from which the one and only Catholic Church exists, are first of all dioceses, to which, unless it is otherwise evident, are likened a territorial prelature and territorial abbacy, an apostolic vicariate and an apostolic prefecture, and an apostolic administration erected in a stable manner. Can. 369 A diocese is a portion of the people of God which is entrusted to a bishop for him to shepherd with the cooperation of the presbyterium, so that, adhering to its pastor and gathered by him in the Holy Spirit through the gospel and the Eucharist, it constitutes a particular church in which the one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church of Christ is truly present and operative. Can. 374 §1. Every diocese or other particular church is to be divided into distinct parts or parishes. §2. To foster pastoral care through common action, several neighboring parishes can be joined into special groups, such as vicariates forane. Can. 375 §1. Bishops, who by divine institution succeed to the place of the Apostles through the Holy Spirit who has been given to them, are constituted pastors in the Church, so that they are teachers of doctrine, priests of sacred worship, and ministers of governance. §2. Through episcopal consecration itself, bishops receive with the function of sanctifying also the functions of teaching and governing; by their nature, however, these can only be exercised in hierarchical communion with the head and members of the college. Can. 376 Bishops to whom the care of some diocese is entrusted are called diocesan; others are called titular. Can. 386 §1. A diocesan bishop, frequently preaching in person, is bound to propose and explain to the faithful the truths of the faith which are to be believed and applied to morals. He is also to take care that the prescripts of the canons on the ministry of the word, especially those on the homily and catechetical instruction, are carefully observed so that the whole Christian doctrine is handed on to all. §2. Through more suitable means, he is firmly to protect the integrity and unity of the faith to be believed, while nonetheless acknowledging a just freedom in further investigating its truths. Can. 400 §1. Unless the Apostolic See has established otherwise, during the year in which he is bound to submit a report to the Supreme Pontiff, a diocesan bishop is to go to Rome to venerate the tombs of the Blessed Apostles Peter and Paul and to present himself to the Roman Pontiff. §2. A bishop is to satisfy the above-mentioned obligation personally unless he is legitimately impeded. In that case, he is to satisfy it through his coadjutor, if he has one, or auxiliary, or a suitable priest of his presbyterium who resides in his diocese. Can. 401 §1. A diocesan bishop who has completed the seventy-fifth year of age is requested to present his resignation from office to the Supreme Pontiff, who will make provision after he has examined all the circumstances. Cann. 460-572 Internal Ordering of Particular Churches Can. 475 §1. In each diocese the diocesan bishop must appoint a vicar general who is provided with ordinary power according to the norm of the following canons and who is to assist him in the governance of the whole diocese. §2. As a general rule, one vicar general is to be appointed unless the size of the diocese, the number of inhabitants, or other pastoral reasons suggest otherwise. Can. 482 §1. In every curia a chancellor is to be appointed whose principal function, unless particular law establishes otherwise, is to take care that acts of the curia are gathered, arranged, and safeguarded in the archive of the curia. §2. If it seems necessary, the chancellor can be given an assistant whose title is to be vice-chancellor. §3. By reason of being chancellor and vice-chancellor they are notaries and secretaries of the curia. Can. 486 §1. All documents which regard the diocese or parishes must be protected with the greatest care. §2. In every curia there is to be erected in a safe place a diocesan archive, or record storage area, in which instruments and written documents which pertain to the spiritual and temporal affairs of the diocese are to be safeguarded after being properly filled and diligently secured. §3. An inventory, or catalog, of the documents which are contained in the archive is to be kept with a brief synopsis of each written document. Can. 487 §2. Interested parties have the right to obtain personally or through a proxy an authentic written copy or photocopy of documents which by their nature are public and which pertain to their personal status. Can. 489 §2. Each year documents of criminal cases in matters of morals, in which the accused parties have died or ten years have elapsed from the condemnatory sentence, are to be destroyed. A brief summary of what occurred along with the text of the definitive sentence is to be retained. Can. 491 §1. A diocesan bishop is to take care that the acts and documents of the archives of cathedral, collegiate, parochial, and other churches in his territory are also diligently preserved and that inventories or catalogs are made in duplicate, one of which is to be preserved in the archive of the church and the other in the diocesan archive. Can. 505 Each and every chapter, whether cathedral or collegial, is to have its own statutes, drawn up through a legitimate capitular act and approved by the diocesan bishop. These statutes are neither to be changed nor abrogated except with the approval of the same diocesan bishop. Can. 511 In every diocese and to the extent that pastoral circumstances suggest it, a pastoral council is to be constituted which under the authority of the bishop investigates, considers, and proposes practical conclusions about those things which pertain to pastoral works in the diocese. Can. 512 §1. A pastoral council consists of members of the Christian faithful who are in full communion with the Catholic Church -- clerics, members of institutes of consecrated life, and especially laity -- who are designated in a manner determined by the diocesan bishop. Can. 513 §2. When the see is vacant, a pastoral council ceases. Can. 514 §1. A pastoral council possesses only a consultative vote. It belongs to the diocesan bishop alone to convoke it according to the needs of the apostolate and to preside over it; it also belongs to him alone to make public what has been done in the council. Can. 528 §2. The pastor is to see to it that the Most Holy Eucharist is the center of the parish assembly of the faithful. He is to work so that the Christian faithful are nourished through the devout celebration of the sacraments and, in a special way, that they frequently approach the sacraments of the Most Holy Eucharist and penance. Can. 535 §4. In each parish there is to be a storage area, or archive, in which the parochial registers are protected along with letters of bishops and other documents which are to be preserved for reason of necessity or advantage. The pastor is to take care that all of these things, which are to be inspected by the diocesan bishop or his delegate at the time of visitation or at some other opportune time, do not come into the hands of outsiders. Can. 538 §3. When a pastor has completed seventy-Five years of age, he is requested to submit his resignation from office to the diocesan bishop who is to decide to accept or defer it after he has considered all the circumstances of the person and place. Attentive to the norms established by the conference of bishops, the diocesan bishop must provide suitable support and housing for a retired pastor. Can. 556 Rectors of churches are understood here as priests to whom is committed the care of some church which is neither parochial nor capitular nor connected to a house of a religious community or society of apostolic life which celebrates services in it. Can. 561 No one is permitted to celebrate the Eucharist, administer the sacraments, or perform other sacred functions in the church without the permission of the rector or another legitimate superior; this permission must be granted or denied according to the norm of law. Can. 564 A chaplain is a priest to whom is entrusted in a stable manner the pastoral care, at least in part, of some community or particular group of the Christian faithful, which is to be exercised according to the norm of universal and particular law.

- Intermission - It is at this point that one must yawn, stretch, rub one's eyes, question the purpose of this blog post, ponder what has led to this moment in their life, reflect upon the laws that govern their civil liberties, and take a moment to read all of the Book of Leviticus in order the cleanse the spiritual palate. A compilation of this magnitute only evolves over thousands of years. I might remind readers who are still reading that I was once Catholic. However, it is because of religious superfluity such as this that I have withdrawn from Catholocism. Bear in mind that one does not simply stop being a Catholic. I fear I may still be one and when I arrive at the pearly gates I shall be greeted by St. Peter, who is a glorious almagamation of all the popes who have ever sat upon his earthly throne, like a gargantuan blob of colorful helium balloons, and he shall speak with the combined authority of their collective voices, and command that I propitiate my soul with the due penance of an eternal Hail Mary. Now, back to the task at hand -- reviewing the Codes that govern the Roman Catholic Church, which rest upon the Catechism, Precepts, Dogma, Creeds, Devotions, Councils, Tradition, Doctrine, and Sacraments therein; here whittled down by keyboard to a brief summary meant to capture the essence of religious superfluity. Note that there are situations and circumstances wherein even more rules and regulations apply.

Cann. 573-606 Norms Common to All Institutes of Consecrated Life Can. 585 It belongs to the competent authority of an institute to suppress its parts. Can. 587 §1. To protect more faithfully the proper vocation and identity of each institute, the fundamental code or constitutions of every institute must contain, besides those things which are to be observed as stated in can. 578, fundamental norms regarding governance of the institute, the discipline of members, incorporation and formation of members, and the proper object of the sacred bonds. §4. Other norms established by competent authority of an institute are to be collected suitably in other codes and, moreover, can be reviewed appropriately and adapted according to the needs of places and times. Can. 588 §1. By its very nature, the state of consecrated life is neither clerical nor lay. §2. That institute is called clerical which, by reason of the purpose or design intended by the founder or by virtue of legitimate tradition, is under the direction of clerics, assumes the exercise of sacred orders, and is recognized as such by the authority of the Church. §3. That institute is called lay which, recognized as such by the authority of the Church, has by virtue of its nature, character, and purpose a proper function defined by the founder or by legitimate tradition, which does not include the exercise of sacred orders. Can. 590 §1. Inasmuch as institutes of consecrated life are dedicated in a special way to the service of God and of the whole Church, they are subject to the supreme authority of the Church in a special way. §2. Individual members are also bound to obey the Supreme Pontiff as their highest superior by reason of the sacred bond of obedience. Can. 598 §1. Each institute, attentive to its own character and purposes, is to define in its constitutions the manner in which the evangelical counsels of chastity, poverty, and obedience must be observed for its way of living. §2. Moreover, all members must not only observe the evangelical counsels faithfully and fully but also arrange their life according to the proper law of the institute and thereby strive for the perfection of their state. Can. 599 The evangelical counsel of chastity assumed for the sake of the kingdom of heaven, which is a sign of the world to come and a source of more abundant fruitfulness in an undivided heart, entails the obligation of perfect continence in celibacy. Can. 600 The evangelical counsel of poverty in imitation of Christ who, although he was rich, was made poor for us, entails, besides a life which is poor in fact and in spirit and is to be led productively in moderation and foreign to earthly riches, a dependence and limitation in the use and disposition of goods according to the norm of the proper law of each institute. Can. 601 The evangelical counsel of obedience, undertaken in a spirit of faith and love in the following of Christ obedient unto death, requires the submission of the will to legitimate superiors, who stand in the place of God, when they command according to the proper constitutions. Cann. 607-709 Religious Institutes Can. 607 §1. As a consecration of the whole person, religious life manifests in the Church a wonderful marriage brought about by God, a sign of the future age. Thus the religious brings to perfection a total self-giving as a sacrifice offered to God, through which his or her whole existence becomes a continuous worship of God in charity. §2. A religious institute is a society in which members, according to proper law, pronounce public vows, either perpetual or temporary which are to be renewed, however, when the period of time has elapsed, and lead a life of brothers or sisters in common. §3. The public witness to be rendered by religious to Christ and the Church entails a separation from the world proper to the character and purpose of each institute. Can. 634 §1. As juridic persons by the law itself, institutes, provinces, and houses are capable of acquiring, possessing, administering, and alienating temporal goods unless this capacity is excluded or restricted in the constitutions. §2. Nevertheless, they are to avoid any appearance of excess, immoderate wealth, and accumulation of goods. Can. 652 §2. Novices are to be led to cultivate human and Christian virtues; through prayer and self-denial they are to be introduced to a fuller way of perfection; they are to be taught to contemplate the mystery of salvation and to read and meditate on the sacred scriptures; they are to be prepared to cultivate the worship of God in the sacred liturgy; they are to learn a manner of leading a life consecrated to God and humanity in Christ through the evangelical counsels; they are to be instructed regarding the character and spirit, the purpose and discipline, the history and life of the institute; and they are to be imbued with love for the Church and its sacred pastors. Can. 654 By religious profession, members assume the observance of the three evangelical counsels by public vow, are consecrated to God through the ministry of the Church, and are incorporated into the institute with the rights and duties defined by law. Can. 659 §1. In individual institutes the formation of all the members is to be continued after first profession so that they lead the proper life of the institute more fully and carry out its mission more suitably. §2. Therefore, proper law must define the program of this formation and its duration, attentive to the needs of the Church and the conditions of people and times, insofar as the purpose and character of the institute require it. §3. Universal law and the program of studies proper to the institute govern the formation of members who are preparing to receive holy orders. Can. 662 Religious are to have as the supreme rule of life the following of Christ proposed in the gospel and expressed in the constitutions of their own institute. Can. 663 §1. The first and foremost duty of all religious is to be the contemplation of divine things and assiduous union with God in prayer. §2. Members are to make every effort to participate in the eucharistic sacrifice daily, to receive the most sacred Body of Christ, and to adore the Lord himself present in the sacrament. §3. They are to devote themselves to the reading of sacred scripture and mental prayer, to celebrate worthily the liturgy of the hours according to the prescripts of proper law, without prejudice to the obligation for clerics mentioned in can. 276, §2, n. 3, and to perform other exercises of piety. §4. With special veneration, they are to honor the Virgin Mother of God, the example and protector of all consecrated life, also through the marian rosary. §5. They are to observe faithfully an annual period of sacred retreat. Can. 664 Religious are to strive after conversion of the soul toward God, to examine their conscience, even daily, and to approach the sacrament of penance frequently. Can. 667 §2. A stricter discipline of cloister must be observed in monasteries ordered to contemplative life. Can. 668 §3. Whatever a religious acquires through personal effort or by reason of the institute, the religious acquires for the institute. Whatever accrues to a religious in any way by reason of pension, subsidy, or insurance is acquired for the institute unless proper law states otherwise. §5. A professed religious who has renounced his or her goods fully due to the nature of the institute loses the capacity of acquiring and possessing and therefore invalidly places acts contrary to the vow of poverty. Moreover, whatever accrues to the professed after renunciation belongs to the institute according to the norm of proper law. Can. 669 §1. Religious are to wear the habit of the institute, made according to the norm of proper law, as a sign of their consecration and as a witness of poverty. §2. Clerical religious of an institute which does not have a proper habit are to wear clerical dress according to the norm of can. 284. Can. 674 Institutes which are entirely ordered to contemplation always hold a distinguished place in the mystical Body of Christ: for they offer an extraordinary sacrifice of praise to God, illumine the people of God with the richest fruits of holiness, move it by their example, and extend it with hidden apostolic fruitfulness. For this reason, members of these institutes cannot be summoned to furnish assistance in the various pastoral ministries however much the need of the active apostolate urges it. Can. 689 §3. If, however, a religious becomes insane during the period of temporary vows, even though unable to make a new profession, the religious cannot be dismissed from the institute. Can. 694 §1. A member must be held as ipso facto dismissed from an institute who: 1) has defected notoriously from the Catholic faith; 2) has contracted marriage or attempted it, even only civilly. Can. 696 §1. A member can also be dismissed for other causes provided that they are grave, external, imputable, and juridically proven such as: habitual neglect of the obligations of consecrated life; repeated violations of the sacred bonds; stubborn disobedience to the legitimate prescripts of superiors in a grave matter; grave scandal arising from the culpable behavior of the member; stubborn upholding or diffusion of doctrines condemned by the magisterium of the Church; public adherence to ideologies infected by materialism or atheism; the illegitimate absence mentioned in can. 665, §2, lasting six months; other causes of similar gravity which the proper law of the institute may determine. 694 §2. For the dismissal of a member in temporary vows, even causes of lesser gravity established in proper law are sufficient. Cann. 710-730 Secular Institutes Can. 710 A secular institute is an institute of consecrated life in which the Christian faithful, living in the world, strive for the perfection of charity and seek to contribute to the sanctification of the world, especially from within. Can. 711 The consecration of a member of a secular institute does not change the member's proper canonical condition among the people of God, whether lay or clerical, with due regard for the prescripts of the law which refer to institutes of consecrated life. Can. 713 §1. Members of these institutes express and exercise their own consecration in apostolic activity, and like leaven they strive to imbue all things with the spirit of the gospel for the strengthening and growth of the Body of Christ. §2. In the world and from the world, lay members participate in the evangelizing function of the Church whether through the witness of a Christian life and of fidelity toward their own consecration, or through the assistance they offer to order temporal things according to God and to inform the world by the power of the gospel. They also cooperate in the service of the ecclesial community according to their own secular way of life. Can. 714 Members are to lead their lives in the ordinary conditions of the world according to the norm of the constitutions, whether alone, or in their own families, or in a group living as brothers or sisters. Can. 715 §1. Clerical members incardinated in a diocese are subject to the diocesan bishop, without prejudice to those things which regard consecrated life in their own institute. §2. Those who are incardinated in an institute according to the norm of can. 266, §3, however, are subject to the bishop like religious if they are appointed to the proper works of the institute or to the governance of the institute. Can. 719 §1. For members to respond faithfully to their vocation and for their apostolic action to proceed from their union with Christ, they are to devote themselves diligently to prayer, to give themselves in a Fitting way to the reading of sacred scripture, to observe an annual period of spiritual retreat, and to perform other spiritual exercises according to proper law. §2. The celebration of the Eucharist, daily if possible, is to be the source and strength of their whole consecrated life. §3. They are to approach freely the sacrament of penance which they are to receive frequently. §4. They are to obtain freely necessary direction of conscience and to seek counsel of this kind even from the moderators, if they wish. Cann. 731-746 Societies of Apostolic Life Can. 731 §1. Societies of apostolic life resemble institutes of consecrated life; their members, without religious vows, pursue the apostolic purpose proper to the society and, leading a life in common as brothers or sisters according to their proper manner of life, strive for the perfection of charity through the observance of the constitutions. §2. Among these are societies in which members assume the evangelical counsels by some bond defined in the constitutions. Can. 735 §1. The proper law of each society determines the admission, probation, incorporation, and formation of members. §2. In what pertains to admission into a society, the conditions established in the cann. 642- 645 are to be observed. §3. Proper law must determine the manner of probation and formation, especially doctrinal, spiritual, and apostolic, adapted to the purpose and character of the society, in such a way that the members, recognizing their divine vocation, are suitably prepared for the mission and life of the society. Cann. 747-755 Teaching Function of The Church Can. 747 §1. The Church, to which Christ the Lord has entrusted the deposit of faith so that with the assistance of the Holy Spirit it might protect the revealed truth reverently, examine it more closely, and proclaim and expound it faithfully, has the duty and innate right, independent of any human power whatsoever, to preach the gospel to all peoples, also using the means of social communication proper to it. §2. It belongs to the Church always and everywhere to announce moral principles, even about the social order, and to render judgment concerning any human affairs insofar as the fundamental rights of the human person or the salvation of souls requires it. Can. 748 §1. All persons are bound to seek the truth in those things which regard God and his Church and by virtue of divine law are bound by the obligation and possess the right of embracing and observing the truth which they have come to know. §2. No one is ever permitted to coerce persons to embrace the Catholic faith against their conscience. Can. 749 §1. By virtue of his office, the Supreme Pontiff possesses infallibility in teaching when as the supreme pastor and teacher of all the Christian faithful, who strengthens his brothers and sisters in the faith, he proclaims by definitive act that a doctrine of faith or morals is to be held. §2. The college of bishops also possesses infallibility in teaching when the bishops gathered together in an ecumenical council exercise the magisterium as teachers and judges of faith and morals who declare for the universal Church that a doctrine of faith or morals is to be held definitively; or when dispersed throughout the world but preserving the bond of communion among themselves and with the successor of Peter and teaching authentically together with the Roman Pontiff matters of faith or morals, they agree that a particular proposition is to be held definitively. §3. No doctrine is understood as defined infallibly unless this is manifestly evident. Can. 750 §1. A person must believe with divine and Catholic faith all those things contained in the word of God, written or handed on, that is, in the one deposit of faith entrusted to the Church, and at the same time proposed as divinely revealed either by the solemn magisterium of the Church or by its ordinary and universal magisterium which is manifested by the common adherence of the Christian faithful under the leadership of the sacred magisterium; therefore all are bound to avoid any doctrines whatsoever contrary to them. §2. Each and every thing which is proposed definitively by the magisterium of the Church concerning the doctrine of faith and morals, that is, each and every thing which is required to safeguard reverently and to expound faithfully the same deposit of faith, is also to be firm-ly embraced and retained; therefore, one who rejects those propositions which are to be held definitively is opposed to the doctrine of the Catholic Church. Can. 751 Heresy is the obstinate denial or obstinate doubt after the reception of baptism of some truth which is to be believed by divine and Catholic faith; apostasy is the total repudiation of the Christian faith; schism is the refusal of submission to the Supreme Pontiff or of communion with the members of the Church subject to him. Can. 754 All the Christian faithful are obliged to observe the constitutions and decrees which the legitimate authority of the Church issues in order to propose doctrine and to proscribe erroneous opinions, particularly those which the Roman Pontiff or the college of bishops puts forth. Cann. 756-780 Ministry of The Divine Word Can. 756 §1. With respect to the universal Church, the function of proclaiming the gospel has been entrusted principally to the Roman Pontiff and the college of bishops. §2. With respect to the particular church entrusted to him, an individual bishop, who is the moderator of the entire ministry of the word within it, exercises that function; sometimes several bishops fulfill this function jointly with respect to different churches at once, according to the norm of law. Cann. 781-792 Missionary Action of The Church Can. 781 Since the whole Church is by its nature missionary and the work of evangelization must be held as a fundamental duty of the people of God, all the Christian faithful, conscious of their responsibility, are to assume their part in missionary work. Can. 782 §1. The Roman Pontiff and the college of bishops have the supreme direction and coordination of endeavors and actions which belong to missionary work and missionary cooperation. §2. As sponsors of the universal Church and of all the churches, individual bishops are to have special solicitude for missionary work, especially by initiating, fostering, and sustaining missionary endeavors in their own particular churches. Can. 785 §1. Catechists are to be used in carrying out missionary work; catechists are lay members of the Christian faithful, duly instructed and outstanding in Christian life, who devote themselves to setting forth the teaching of the gospel and to organizing liturgies and works of charity under the direction of a missionary. Can. 787 §1. By the witness of their life and word, missionaries are to establish a sincere dialogue with those who do not believe in Christ so that, in a manner adapted to their own temperament and culture, avenues are opened enabling them to understand the message of the gospel. §2. Missionaries are to take care that they teach the truths of faith to those whom they consider prepared to receive the gospel message so that they can be admitted to receive baptism when they freely request it.

Codex Iuris Canonici Saturday, May 27, 2023 Today, Catholics celebrate the 1917 Code of Canon Law for the members of the Roman Catholic Church, compiled over 13 years in Latin and containing 1,752 canons of ecumenical legalese. It was replaced with the 1983 Code of Canon Law -- again, in Latin -- which took on the form of seven books with nine subsequent amendments (Book VI - Sanctions in the Church was updated in 2021 to clarify sexual offences of the clergy). For your edification, as well as a great way to kick off a three-day weekend, here are just some of the canons from the current Codex Iuris Canonici, obtained from an English translation located here.

Cann. 1-4 General Norms Can. 1 The canons of this Code regard only the Latin Church. Cann. 7-22 Ecclesiastical Laws Can. 22 Civil laws to which the law of the Church yields are to be observed in canon law with the same effects, insofar as they are not contrary to divine law and unless canon law provides otherwise. Cann. 35-93 Singular Administrative Acts Can. 48 A singular decree is an administrative act issued by a competent executive authority in which a decision is given or a provision is made for a particular case according to the norms of law. Of their nature, these decisions or provisions do not presuppose a petition made by someone. Can. 59 §1. A rescript is an administrative act issued in writing by competent executive authority; of its very nature, a rescript grants a privilege, dispensation, or other favor at someone's request. §2. The prescripts established for rescripts are valid also for the oral granting of a permission or favors unless it is otherwise evident. Can. 76 §1. A privilege is a favor given through a particular act to the benefit of certain physical or juridic persons; it can be granted by the legislator as well as by an executive authority to whom the legislator has granted this power. §2. Centenary or immemorial possession induces the presumption that a privilege has been granted. Can. 85 A dispensation, or the relaxation of a merely ecclesiastical law in a particular case, can be granted by those who possess executive power within the limits of their competence, as well as by those who have the power to dispense explicitly or implicitly either by the law itself or by legitimate delegation. Cann. 96-123 Physical and Juridic Persons Can. 96 By baptism one is incorporated into the Church of Christ and is constituted a person in it with the duties and rights which are proper to Christians in keeping with their condition, insofar as they are in ecclesiastical communion and unless a legitimately issued sanction stands in the way. Can. 99 Whoever habitually lacks the use of reason is considered not responsible for oneself (non sui compos) and is equated with infants. Can. 108 §1. Consanguinity is computed through lines and degrees. §2. In the direct line there are as many degrees as there are generations or persons, not counting the common ancestor. §3. In the collateral line there are as many degrees as there are persons in both the lines together, not counting the common ancestor. Can. 113 §1. The Catholic Church and the Apostolic See have the character of a moral person by divine ordinance itself. §2. In the Church, besides physical persons, there are also juridic persons, that is, subjects in canon law of obligations and rights which correspond to their nature. Cann. 129-144 Power of Governance Can. 137 §1. Ordinary executive power can be delegated both for a single act and for all cases unless the law expressly provides otherwise. §2. Executive power delegated by the Apostolic See can be subdelegated for a single act or for all cases unless the delegate was chosen for personal qualifications or subdelegation was expressly forbidden. §3. Executive power delegated by another authority who has ordinary power can be subdelegated only for individual cases if it was delegated for all cases. If it was delegated for a single act or for determined acts, however, it cannot be subdelegated except by express grant of the one delegating. §4. No subdelegated power can be subdelegated again unless the one delegating has expressly granted this. Cann. 145-196 Ecclesiastical Offices Can. 145 §1. An ecclesiastical office is any function constituted in a stable manner by divine or ecclesiastical ordinance to be exercised for a spiritual purpose. §2. The obligations and rights proper to individual ecclesiastical offices are defined either in the law by which the office is constituted or in the decree of the competent authority by which the office is at the same time constituted and conferred. Can. 171 §1. The following are effected to vote: 1) a person incapable of a human act; Can. 178 The person elected who has accepted an election which does not need confirmation obtains the office in full right immediately; otherwise, the person acquires only the right to the office. Can. 194 §1. The following are removed from an ecclesiastical office by the law itself: 3) a cleric who has attempted marriage even if only civilly. Cann. 200-203 Computation of Time Can. 202 §1. In law, a day is understood as a period consisting of 24 continuous hours and begins at midnight unless other provision is expressly made; a week is a period of 7 days; a month is a period of 30 days, and a year is a period of 365 days unless a month and a year are said to be taken as they are in the calendar. Cann. 204-231 The Christian Faithful Can. 204 §1. The Christian faithful are those who, inasmuch as they have been incorporated in Christ through baptism, have been constituted as the people of God. For this reason, made sharers in their own way in Christ's priestly, prophetic, and royal function, they are called to exercise the mission which God has entrusted to the Church to fulfill in the world, in accord with the condition proper to each. §2. This Church, constituted and organized in this world as a society, subsists in the Catholic Church governed by the successor of Peter and the bishops in communion with him. Can. 205 Those baptized are fully in the communion of the Catholic Church on this earth who are joined with Christ in its visible structure by the bonds of the profession of faith, the sacraments, and ecclesiastical governance. Can. 206 §1. Catechumens, that is, those who ask by explicit choice under the influence of the Holy Spirit to be incorporated into the Church, are joined to it in a special way. By this same desire, just as by the life of faith, hope, and charity which they lead, they are united with the Church which already cherishes them as its own. Can. 207 §1. By divine institution, there are among the Christian faithful in the Church sacred ministers who in law are also called clerics; the other members of the Christian faithful are called lay persons. §2. There are members of the Christian faithful from both these groups who, through the profession of the evangelical counsels by means of vows or other sacred bonds recognized and sanctioned by the Church, are consecrated to God in their own special way and contribute to the salvific mission of the Church; although their state does not belong to the hierarchical structure of the Church, it nevertheless belongs to its life and holiness. Can. 212 §1. Conscious of their own responsibility, the Christian faithful are bound to follow with Christian obedience those things which the sacred pastors, inasmuch as they represent Christ, declare as teachers of the faith or establish as rulers of the Church. §2. The Christian faithful are free to make known to the pastors of the Church their needs, especially spiritual ones, and their desires. Can. 214 The Christian faithful have the right to worship God according to the prescripts of their own rite approved by the legitimate pastors of the Church and to follow their own form of spiritual life so long as it is consonant with the doctrine of the Church. Can. 215 The Christian faithful are at liberty freely to found and direct associations for purposes of charity or piety or for the promotion of the Christian vocation in the world and to hold meetings for the common pursuit of these purposes. Can. 216 Since they participate in the mission of the Church, all the Christian faithful have the right to promote or sustain apostolic action even by their own undertakings, according to their own state and condition. Nevertheless, no undertaking is to claim the name Catholic without the consent of competent ecclesiastical authority. Can. 218 Those engaged in the sacred disciplines have a just freedom of inquiry and of expressing their opinion prudently on those matters in which they possess expertise, while observing the submission due to the magisterium of the Church. Can. 219 All the Christian faithful have the right to be free from any kind of coercion in choosing a state of life. Can. 222 §1. The Christian faithful are obliged to assist with the needs of the Church so that the Church has what is necessary for divine worship, for the works of the apostolate and of charity, and for the decent support of ministers. §2. They are also obliged to promote social justice and, mindful of the precept of the Lord, to assist the poor from their own resources. Can. 225 §2. According to each one's own condition, they are also bound by a particular duty to imbue and perfect the order of temporal affairs with the spirit of the gospel and thus to give witness to Christ, especially in carrying out these same affairs and in exercising secular functions. Can. 227 The lay Christian faithful have the right to have recognized that freedom which all citizens have in the affairs of the earthly city. When using that same freedom, however, they are to take care that their actions are imbued with the spirit of the gospel and are to heed the doctrine set forth by the magisterium of the Church. In matters of opinion, moreover, they are to avoid setting forth their own opinion as the doctrine of the Church. Can. 230 §2. Lay persons can fulfill the function of lector in liturgical actions by temporary designation. All lay persons can also perform the functions of commentator or cantor, or other functions, according to the norm of law. §3. When the need of the Church warrants it and ministers are lacking, lay persons, even if they are not lectors or acolytes, can also supply certain of their duties, namely, to exercise the ministry of the word, to preside over liturgical prayers, to confer baptism, and to distribute Holy Communion, according to the prescripts of the law. Cann. 232-293 Sacred Ministers or Clerics Can. 246 §1. The eucharistic celebration is to be the center of the entire life of a seminary in such a way that, sharing in the very love of Christ, the students daily draw strength of spirit for apostolic work and for their spiritual life especially from this richest of sources. §3. The veneration of the Blessed Virgin Mary, including the marian rosary, mental prayer, and other exercises of piety are to be fostered; through these, students are to acquire a spirit of prayer and gain strength in their vocation. §4. Students are to become accustomed to approach the sacrament of penance frequently; it is also recommended that each have a director of his spiritual life whom he has freely chosen and to whom he can confidently open his conscience. Can. 247 §1. Students are to be prepared through suitable education to observe the state of celibacy and are to learn to honor it as a special gift of God. §2. They are duly to be informed of the duties and burdens which are proper to sacred ministers of the Church; no difficulty of the priestly life is to be omitted. Can. 249 The program of priestly formation is to provide that students not only are carefully taught their native language but also understand Latin well and have a suitable understanding of those foreign languages which seem necessary or useful for their formation or for the exercise of pastoral ministry. Can. 250 The philosophical and theological studies which are organized in the seminary itself can be pursued either successively or conjointly, in accord with the program of priestly formation. These studies are to encompass at least six full years in such a way that the time dedicated to philosophical disciplines equals two full years and to theological studies four full years. Can. 252 §3. There are to be classes in dogmatic theology, always grounded in the written word of God together with sacred tradition; through these, students are to learn to penetrate more intimately the mysteries of salvation, especially with St. Thomas as a teacher. There are also to be classes in moral and pastoral theology, canon law, liturgy, ecclesiastical history, and other auxiliary and special disciplines, according to the norm of the prescripts of the program of priestly formation. Can. 265 Every cleric must be incardinated either in a particular church or personal prelature, or in an institute of consecrated life or society endowed with this faculty, in such a way that unattached or transient clerics are not allowed at all. Can. 267 §1. For a cleric already incardinated to be incardinated validly in another particular church, he must obtain from the diocesan bishop a letter of excardination signed by the same bishop and a letter of incardination from the diocesan bishop of the particular church in which he desires to be incardinated signed by that bishop. §2. Excardination thus granted does not take effect unless incardination in another particular church has been obtained. Can. 279 §1. Even after ordination to the priesthood, clerics are to pursue sacred studies and are to strive after that solid doctrine founded in sacred scripture, handed on by their predecessors, and commonly accepted by the Church, as set out especially in the documents of councils and of the Roman Pontiffs. They are to avoid profane novelties and pseudo-science. Can. 282 §1. Clerics are to foster simplicity of life and are to refrain from all things that have a semblance of vanity. §2. They are to wish to use for the good of the Church and works of charity those goods which have come to them on the occasion of the exercise of ecclesiastical office and which are left over after provision has been made for their decent support and for the fulfillment of all the duties of their own state. Can. 291 Apart from the case mentioned in can. 290, n. 1, loss of the clerical state does not entail a dispensation from the obligation of celibacy, which only the Roman Pontiff grants. Cann. 298-329 Associations of the Christian Faithful Can. 303 Associations whose members share in the spirit of some religious institute while in secular life, lead an apostolic life, and strive for Christian perfection under the higher direction of the same institute are called third orders or some other appropriate name. Can. 316 §1. A person who has publicly rejected the Catholic faith, has defected from ecclesiastical communion, or has been punished by an imposed or declared excommunication cannot be received validly into public associations. Can. 317 §4. Those who exercise leadership in political parties are not to be moderators in public associations of the Christian faithful which are ordered directly to the exercise of the apostolate.

Definitive Answers to Tough Questions Part 4 Wednesday, May 24, 2023 (Continued from before.) God is holy and prefers the same from us but we can't do it nor can we afford the price to overcome our unholy imperfections which prevent us from His presence, which is why Jesus came along (Romans 5:1-11). That high a price for our transgressions is such that we'd be damned fools for not accepting this offer. The question remains, howsoever, that even if God loves his creation so much that He would allow his only-begotten to pay the price by death, then why would He still allow so many damned fools to roast in hell for however long forever is? Aside from people who were pretty decent their whole lives writhing in pain and suffering alongside the worst of humanity, both hell and the amount of souls in it seem a bit excessive. Why, Lord? Is it to emphasize the stark contrast between holiness and unholiness, good and evil, salvation and damnation, heaven and hell, You and sinners? When it all comes down to it, I haven't an answer. That's right, nothing. But here are my hypotheses, conjectures, theories and speculations on the subject: Christians have continued to alter and extend the timeline of history by continuously sticking their necks into politics rather than just sticking to sharing the Gospel and suffering for it (Matthew 24:14, Mark 13:9-11). We are one of the main reasons why so many people will burn in hell. Perhaps souls are reincarnated over and over until the end of time, giving them ample opportunities to repent and very little excuse not to have repented; except that Jesus indicated that the rich ruler and Lazarus had but one life before they were punished and rewarded (Luke 16:19-31). Those in hell will burn only for a thousand years (Revelation 20:1-6), but after the second death, following the white throne judgment, hell will be thrown into the lake of fire and destroyed (Revelation 20:11-15). Life is precious and life is serious -- fuck it up and there will be hell to pay. No one is without excuse for not seeking God on their own (Romans 1:18-20). People have been given over to their own lusts and desires because they have rejected Him (Romans 1:24-32). God's love is unconditional only on the condition that it is accepted. If you think your life is shit, then that's all the more reason to turn to Jesus. This is one of those unknowable mysteries. Jesus himself said he had no idea of the timing of his own second coming (Matthew 24:36, Mark 13:32) and Paul said that no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God (1 Corinthians 2:11). We just have to accept on faith that God knows what's best. In the end, we will all share an "aha" moment, being fully aware of how impure and unworthy we really are in the presence of the Almighty God. Even some who assured themselves by their own faith will be turned away from heaven (Matthew 7:22-24, Luke 13:26-28). Misery loves company.

"For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile. For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed -- a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: 'The righteous will live by faith.'" (Romans 1:16-17, NIV)

Definitive Answers to Tough Questions Part 3 Sunday, May 21, 2023 Today I have a moment or two in the early hours of the morning, while the birds awaken and sing God's praises, to purge my e-mail of the electronic lechery which has befallen my domain. Many have file attachments which, although tempting, are sure to release Satan's digital gremlins upon opening. There's one for a "transation" of an inexpensive Louis Vuitton Handbag. I like learning new words and am curious as to how many new words I might discover in the attached invoice. Suddenly, a magpie flies through the window and pecks the Delete key on my keyboard, saving me from certain damnation. Thank you, Jesus. Fortunately, the window was open and the magpie was not injured by flying through the window screen and the rest of my e-mail is all good news: the Europe Business Guide has gladly accepted my submission form, wireless lapel microphones are now available worldwide, and my site has been updated to WordPress 6.2.1. Now, back to the hitherto unanswered question at hand: Why does God allow so many people to burn in hell? I do not consider this as glibly as deleting my e-mail and I wish God would send another magpie or a robin to fly through the window screen and type out an answer in plain human speak. Some passages in the Bible say that God "throws" people into hell (Matthew 5:29, 18:9, Mark 9:45-47, Luke 12:5), which seems even more disturbing. And what does it matter whether it's a trillion souls or just one? The God in which Christians believe is one of jealousy (Exodus 20:4-6, 34:14), anger (Deuteronomy 29:25-28, Isaiah 5:25), and wrath (Romans 1:18-32), -- which all boils down to God's zealousness for his own holiness. No one can blame God for this, yet those who do -- like the rest of us -- fail to understand this holiness and its implications for mankind. Quite possibly, the final answer is found in the Bible, where all the answers to life are revealed: "The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but the things revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may follow all the words of this law" (Deuteronomy 29:29). You might be correct in pointing out that God has revealed his anger and his wrath but seems to have withheld the secret behind its dire consequences: the resulting ramifications of his holiness. I almost hate to say this, but I gotta go now. Would you look at the time.

"I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after your body has been killed, has authority to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him. Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows." (Luke 12:4-7, NIV)

Definitive Answers to Tough Questions Part 2 Wednesday, May 17, 2023 If you were here on May 7th, you might remember that I was discussing with myself the quandary of why God allows so many people to burn in hell. I seem to recall C. S. Lewis covering this topic in his book The Great Divorce, except he doesn't really broach this particular question. (I also found it quite unreasonable that someone from heaven could visit someone in hell because Jesus said it was impossible (Luke 16:19-31) and that, unlike those in the hell of C. S. Lewis who were oblivious to heaven, Jesus also mentions that the rich man does not want his family to go to hell because it's so terrible.) But forgive me for questioning C. S. Lewis, which is not my intent. Nor do I necessarily question God. I am just curious and I have yet to hear a reasonable answer.

"There was a rich man who was dressed in purple and fine linen and lived in luxury every day. At his gate was laid a beggar named Lazarus, covered with sores and longing to eat what fell from the rich man's table. Even the dogs came and licked his sores. The time came when the beggar died and the angels carried him to Abraham's side. The rich man also died and was buried. In Hades, where he was in torment, he looked up and saw Abraham far away, with Lazarus by his side. So he called to him, 'Father Abraham, have pity on me and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, because I am in agony in this fire.' But Abraham replied, 'Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, while Lazarus received bad things, but now he is comforted here and you are in agony. And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been set in place, so that those who want to go from here to you cannot, nor can anyone cross over from there to us.' He answered, 'Then I beg you, father, send Lazarus to my family, for I have five brothers. Let him warn them, so that they will not also come to this place of torment.' Abraham replied, 'They have Moses and the Prophets; let them listen to them.' 'No, father Abraham,' he said, 'but if someone from the dead goes to them, they will repent.' He said to him, 'If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.'" (Luke 16:19-31, NIV)

I do not agree with those who refuse to accept an eternal or even long-lasting hell simply because they consider it uncompassionate for an all-merciful God and therefore cannot reconcile the concept of hellfire with a compassionate God. There are plenty of explanations out there in cyberspace about God's righteousness compared to our sinfulness and you are bound to come across a few while surfing online. In a nutshell, no one on this Earth is good in God's eyes (Psalms 14:1-3, Ecclesiastes 7:20, Matthew 19:17, Mark 10:18, Luke 18:19). Isaiah even goes so far as to compare the good deeds of man with bloody menstrual rags (Isaiah 64:6, Wycliffe/Douay-Rheims/Lexham English Bible/Orthodox Jewish Bible). I don't like the way hell makes me feel, either, but the namby-pamby view of hell as merely a separation from God is not befitting of people who have already dissociated themselves from Him. Where else is He going to send them or allow their souls to exist?

"But we are all as the tameh (unclean thing), and kol tzidkoteinu (all our righteousness, our righteous deeds, works) are like beged iddim (filthy rags, a garment of menstruation); and we all do fade like the aleh (leaf); and avoneinu (our iniquities), like the ruach, have taken us away." (Isaiah 64:6, Orthodox Jewish Bible) "But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: for all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; to declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus." (Romans 3:21-26, AKJV)

Again, the issue here is not whether there is an actual place called hell, or if it has another name, or if maybe it's a mistranslation of sheol, or if it is eternal, or if it is tortuously painful, or even why God would send people there. The issue here is that there is apparently quite a few more people on their way to hell than to heaven (Matthew 7:13-14) -- so, then, why is that? No, not why are they destined for hell, but when will God say enough is enough? When there is a specific ratio of damned to saved? When the molten core of the Earth is bursting at the seams? When all the Catholics have been sufficiently cleansed in the purgatorial bath, the Mormons have spiritually baptized all the dead by name, and modern-day Christians have knocked on every door and wiped their feet of the dust of every town? When every single human being who ever lived has been hit over the head with a Bible? At this point, it's still a rhetorical question. However, it's not one which I will lose faith or sleep over, but I shall keep searching. If you already sent me the answer via e-mail then please forgive me as I am behind in that department.

"Then the King will say to those on his left, 'Go away from me. God has said that you will be punished. Go into the fire that burns forever. That fire was prepared for the devil and his helpers...' These people will go off to be punished forever. But the good people will go to live forever." (Matthew 25:41, 46, International Children's Bible)

Martha and the Tarasque Saturday, May 13, 2023 In case I've never mentioned this before, I write this blog as a shameless self-promotion for my books, one of which is The Gospel of Martha. Turns out, Martha has a skeleton in her closet... Saint Martha, hostess of our Lord Jesu Christ, was born of a royal kindred. Her father was named Syro and her mother Eucharia. The father of her was duke of Syria and places maritime, and Martha with her sister possessed by the heritage of their mother three places, that was, the castle Magdalen and Bethany and a part of Jerusalem. It is nowhere read that Martha had ever any husband ne fellowship of man, but she as a noble hostess ministered and served our Lord, and would also that her sister should serve him and help her, for she thought that all the world was not sufficient to serve such a guest. After the ascension of our Lord, when the disciples were departed, she with her brother Lazares and her sister Mary, also S. Maximin which baptized them and to whom they were committed of the Holy Ghost, and many others, were put into a ship without sail, oars, or rudder governail, of the paynims, which by the conduct of our Lord they came all to Marseilles, and after came to the territory of Aquense or Aix, and there converted the people to the faith. Martha was right facound of speech, and courteous and gracious to the sight of the people. There was that time upon the river of Rhone, in a certain wood between Aries and Avignon, a great dragon, half beast and half fish, greater than an ox, longer than an horse, having teeth sharp as a sword, and horned on either side, head like a lion, tail like a serpent, and defended him with two wings on either side, and could not be beaten with cast of stones ne with other armour, and was as strong as twelve lions or bears; which dragon lay hiding and lurking in the river, and perished them that passed by and drowned ships. He came thither by sea from Galicia, and was engendered of Leviathan, which is a serpent of the water and is much wood, and of a beast called Bonacho, that is engendered in Galicia. To whom Martha, at the prayer of the people, came into the wood, and found him eating a man. And she cast on him holy water, and showed to him the cross; which [dragon] anon was overcome, and standing still as a sheep, she bound him with her own girdle; and then was slain with pears and glaives of the people. The dragon was called of them that dwelled in the country Tarasconus, whereof, in remembrance of him that place is called Tarasconus, which tofore was called Berlue, and the Black Lake, because there be woods shadowous and black. And there the blessed Martha, by licence of Maximin her master and of her sister, dwelled and abode in the same place after, and daily occupied in prayers and in fastings, and thereafter assembled and gathered together a great convent of sisters, and builded a fair church at the honour of the blessed Mary virgin, where she led a hard and a sharp life. She eschewed flesh and all fat meat, eggs, cheese and wine; she ate but once a day. An hundred times a day and an hundred times a night she kneeled down and bowed her knees. On a time, at Avignon, when she preached between the town and the river of Rhone, there was a young man on that other side of the river desiring to hear her words, and had no boat to pass over. He began to swim, but he was suddenly taken by the strength of the water, and anon suffocate and drowned, whose body unnethe was found the next day. And when it was taken up, it was presented at the feet of Martha for to be raised to life. She then, in manner of a cross, fell down to the ground and prayed in this manner: 'O Adonay, Lord Jesu Christ which raisedst sometime my well-beloved brother, behold, my most dear guest, to the faith of them that stand here, and raise this child!' And she took him by the hand, and forthwith he arose living and received the holy baptism. Eusebius telleth in the book of the Historia Ecclesiastica that a woman named Emorissa, after that she was healed of our Lord, she made in her court an image like unto Jesu Christ, with cloth and hem, like as she saw him when she was healed, and worshipped him much devoutly. The herbs that grew under the image tofore that she had touched the hem were of no virtue, but, after that she had touched it, they were of so much virtue that many sick people by them were healed. That woman Emorissa, whom our Lord healed, Ambrose saith that it was Martha. S. Jerome saith, and it is had in Historia Tripartita, that Julianus Apostata took away that image that Emorissa made, and set his own there, which, with the stroke of thunder, was all tobroken. Our Lord came to her a year tofore her death, and showed to her that she should depart out of this world, and all that year she was sick and laboured in the fevers, and eight days tofore her death she heard the heavenly fellowship of angels bearing her sister's soul into heaven, and anon did do come all the convent of brethren and of sisters, and said to them: 'My friends and most sweet fellows, I pray you to rejoice and enjoy with me, for I see the fellowship of angels bear the soul of my sister Mary unto heaven. O most fair and sweet sister, thou livest now with thy master and my guest in the blessed seat in heaven.' And then anon Martha said to them that were present, that her death was nigh, and bade to light the tapers about her, and that they should wake unto her death. And about midnight tofore the day of her death, they that should watch her were heavy of sleep and slept, and there came a great wind and extinguished and did out the lights. She then, seeing a great tourbe of wicked spirits, began to pray and said: 'My father Eli, my dear guest, these deceivers be gathered for to devour me, bringing written all the evil deeds that ever I did. O blessed Eli, be not withdrawn from me, but intend in to mine help'; and forthwith she saw her sister coming to her, holding a brand in her hand and lighted the tapers and lamps, and as each of them called other by their name, Christ came to them saying: 'Come, my well-beloved hostess, for where I am thou shalt be with me. Thou hast received me in thine harbour and I shall receive thee in mine heaven, and all them that call upon thee, I shall hear them for thy love.' Then the hour of her death approaching, she commanded that she should be borne out of the house that she might behold and look up into heaven, and to lay her on the earth, and to hold the sign of the cross tofore her; and saying these words, she prayed: 'My sweet guest, I beseech thee to keep me, thy poor creature, and like as thou hast vouchsafed to be lodged with me, so I beseech thee to receive me into thine heavenly harbour.' And then she bade that the Passion after Luke should be read tofore her, and when this was said: 'Pater, in manus tuas commendo spiritum meum'; she gave up her spirit and died in our Lord. The next day following, that was the Sunday, whiles they said lauds about her body, and did her obsequies, and about the hour of tierce, at Petrogoricke, our Lord appeared to the blessed Frontonius singing mass, which after the epistle slept in his chair, and said to him: 'My well-beloved Frontone, if thou wilt fulfil that thou behighest long sith to my hostess Martha, arise anon and follow me.' Whose commandment he obeyed, and suddenly both came to Tarascona, and singing the office about the body and the other answering, they with their own hands laid the body into the sepulchre. And troth it was that at Petrogoricke, when they had sung in the choir and the deacon should go read the gospel and receive the benediction, they awoke the bishop, demanding the benediction. Then the bishop awoke and said: 'Why have ye awakened me, my brethren? Our Lord Jesu Christ hath led me to his hostess Martha, and we have laid her in her sepulchre. Now send thither messengers for to fetch our ring of gold and our gloves, which whiles I made me ready to bury her, I delivered them to the sexton, and I have forgotten them there because ye awoke me so soon.' Then were messengers sent forth, and as the bishop said, they found his ring and one glove which they brought again, and that other the sexton retained for a witness and memory. And the blessed Frontonius added thereto, saying that after her sepulture a brother of the same place, a learned man in the law, demanded of our Lord what was his name? To whom he answered not, but showed a book open in his hand in which was written this versicle: 'In everlasting memory shall be my rightful hostess, and she shall dread none evil in the last day'; and when he should turn the leaves of the book, in every leaf he found the same written. Where afterward many miracles were showed and done at her tomb. Then Clovis, king of France, was after this made a christian man, and baptized of S. Remigius, and suffering great pain in his reins, came to her tomb and there received very health. For which cause he enriched that place; and the space of three miles way about on both sides of the river of Rhone, as well towns as castles, he gave to the same place, and that place he made free. Marcilla, her servant, wrote her life; which afterward went into Sclavonia and there preached the gospel of Christ, and after ten years from the death of Martha she rested in our Lord. chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://brittlebooks.library.illinois.edu/brittlebooks_open/Books2008-04/voraja0001golleg/voraja0001golleg.pdf Source: The Golden Legend or Lives of the Saints. Compiled by Jacobus de Voragine, Archbishop of Genoa, 1275. First Edition Published 1470. Englished by William Caxton, First Edition 1483, Edited by F.S. Ellis, Temple Classics, 1900 (Reprinted 1922, 1931.) © Paul Halsall. This text is part of the Internet Medieval Source Book provided by the Fordham University Center for Medieval Studies.

GoM Chapter 20 (Continued) Friday, May 12, 2023 Today we are reminded of Imelda Lambertini (1322-1333), who lived a short life in Bologna up until receiving the Eucharist at age nine, after which she died while kneeling in prayer with a smile on her face. At the time, most children did not receive Communion until age fourteen, so God blessed her faithfulness by sparing her from puberty, menstruation, childbearing, menopause, and all the other curses of life. We now return to our ongoing lesson around the camp fire from The Gospel of Martha, where Jesus is seated with his disciples and teaching them many mysterious things. You can almost smell and taste the figs roasting over an open fire.

Jesus saith, "There was a rich man who had a great deal of money. He said: I shall invest my money so that I may sow, and reap, and plant, and fill my storehouses with produce, that I may lack nothing. These were the intentions of his heart, but that very night he died. And the angel of death took all that he had, including his two ears that should have listened." Jesus saith, "A man was receiving guests. When he had prepared the dinner, he sent his servant to invite the guests. The servant went to the first and said to that one: My master inviteth thee. That one said: Some merchants owe me money; they are coming to me tonight. I must go and give them instruction. Prithee excusest thou me from dinner." Jesus continuing saith, "The servant went to an other and said to that one: My master hath invited thee. That one said to the servant: I have bought an house, and I have been called away for a day. I shall have no time and respectfully decline." Jesus saith, "The servant went to an other and said to that one: My master inviteth thee. That one said to the servant: My friend is to be married, and I am to arrange the banquet. I shall not be able to come. I ask to be excused from dinner." Jesus saith, "The servant went to an other and said to that one: My master hath invited thee. That one said to the servant: I have bought an estate, and I am going to collect the rent. I shall not be able to come. Prithee excusest thou me." Jesus saith, "The servant returned and said to his master: Those whom you invited to dinner have declined and asked to be excused. The master said unto his servant: Go out on the streets and bring back whomever thou findest to have dinner." Jesus concluding saith, "But the servant questioned his master, saying: But Lord, thine original guests, all being merchants and men of business, had they prior engagements, and thine invitation was last moment; yea, even at the eleventh hour. And now givest thou command unto your servant to gather up those within the streets who are idle, and loitering, and dawdling, and lollygagging, and dillydallying? To which the master replied, and said: Like it or not, dinner is served." Jesus saith, "A goodly man owned a vineyard and rented to some tenants, that they work it, and he collect of its crop from them. He sent his slave for to collect from the tenants the vineyard’s crop. They seized upon him, and beat him, and about killed him, and the slave returned and told his master. His master said: Perhaps they recognised him not. He sent an other slave, and the tenants beat that one as well. Then the master sent his son, and said: Perhaps they will shew some respect unto my son. Because the tenants knew that he was the heir to the vineyard, they seized upon him, and killed him." Jesus continuing saith, "When informed of this, that the tenants of his own vineyard had killed his very son, the owner said: Well, that went not entirely according to plan; howbeit an outcome anticipated of this lot. So he raised his son from the dead, and granted him a seat of honour in his house, and promised him a return visit unto the tenants: this time for to collect of their very souls, and with interest." Jesus saith, "Shew me the stone that the builders rejected: that is the corner stone. Ye say setting stone, I say corner stone. Ye say keystone, I say capstone."

LWoS 156, 159, 160, 162, 166, 173, 176, 177, 181 Thursday, May 11, 2023 Today we remember Anthimus of Rome (d. 303), Mamertus of Vienne in Gaul (d. 475), Gangulphus of Burgundy (d. 760), and Majolus of Cluny (d. 994). Let us also remember The Lost Wisdom of Solomon, which is still available in paperback and Kindle. 156 Not all dogs go to heaven. Only 144,000 will go to heaven, 12,000 from each of the tribes of Israel, and then only to the lowest realm. All cats go to the bottomless pit of eternal licking and despair (Hebrew, Abaddon), from whence they came. The only animals that live forever are jellyfish, due in large part to a diet that consists of the souls of other sea creatures. But not all fauna have souls. This includes goldfish and mosquitos. These, however, are not the most heedlessly thick-headed creatures in the world. This distinction is bequeathed upon sheep, which are very similar in apprehension and perception to the average person. 159 Colic is a demon which manifests itself in later years as eczema. Peppermint liqueur should treat the former, while exile to a leper colony is remedy for the latter. 160 Glean from the fields, my beloved. Glean from the barley field morning ‘til night, then sleep upon the threshing floor. Arise with the sun and continue gleaning behind the harvesters. Fill your bag, my love, and let it bow your back. Quiver under a heavy load, oh virtuous woman, and falter not to cull the leftovers of my harvest, my bountiful harvest. Then make me a cake, a cake of barley. Maybe add some raisins. If not raisins, then dried figs. But no prunes. Blessed among women are you, my beloved. Your calloused feet are a sign of longevity, your gnarled hands a sign of maturity. Your sagging breasts are badges of longsuffering. Your haggard appearance may be hideous to behold, yet I find you less than hideous. Yes, just a little less than hideous are you in my eyes. You were once young and vibrant. Now you drag your breasts in the dirt. These cakes had better be good. 162 This I have observed, that some people's skulls are oddly, even grossly, misshapen. Take Nakinor son of Arphaxad son of Uz the Semite. His is the head of a bald orangutan. Or take Og son of Shem the Trogladite. His brow protrudes to the point where many have mistaken him for a gorilla. It would seem logical, if one did not know of these peculiar individuals, who are relatively few in number, to dig up their skeletal remains a millennia from now and think them descended from apes. It is to laugh. 166 A rainbow in the sky is a sign that God will never again destroy the earth and its wicked inhabitants with a great flood.* A double rainbow is an added assurance that he will never again destroy the earth and its wicked inhabitants with a great flood. A triple rainbow is a dire warning that, although God will never again destroy the earth and its wicked inhabitants with a great flood, his patience is being severely tested and there are other means with which to destroy the earth and its wicked inhabitants. 173 With much wisdom comes much sorrow. The more knowledge, the more grief. Likewise, with much age comes much bruising. The slightest bump, a bruise no less. 176 Do not let the sun set on an indignant heart. If you hold a grudge against your neighbor, then go to him in the company of his family and keep him up all night until the matter is settled and rectified. Once resolved, tuck in his children and kiss them on the forehead. If a bedtime story is requested, then oblige them you must. 177 All things toiled for under the sun must be left to the one who comes after, who does not toil but relies instead on his inheritance. Therefore, it is best to dedicate your later years to the hording of meaningless objects. 181 Better is obedience to the Lord than subdued by desire. Better is discipline from the Lord than oppressed by illicit cravings. Better to be rebuked by the Lord than to be subjected to the torment of the harsh taskmaster of obsession. Better a servant of the Lord than a slave to addiction. Better the Lord’s whipping boy than Satan’s bitch.

All Scripture is God-Breathed Wednesday, May 10, 2023 There has been an ongoing debate* regarding 2 Timothy 3:16, where Paul says that all Scripture is God-breathed and useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness. The caveat is that Paul was referring to the books of the Old Testament, which any non-believer will be quick to point out were written by men. Paul's letters were not inducted into the Scripture of the New Testament until three centuries later. In some of his epistles, he even clarifies that what he is saying is his own opinion (1 Corinthians 7:12-40, 2 Corinthians 11:16-31) and also by the Spirit of God (1 Corinthians 7:40). Many argue -- and rightly so -- that his rules were on good authority as an apostle. However, would Paul have agreed that his letters of instruction and encouragement be tantamount to Scripture? I dare say no. Yet I accept it as gospel truth. In 1 Corinthians 11:13, Paul begins his argument about the length of a man and woman's hair by saying, "Judge for yourself," but then ends it by saying, "If anyone wants to be contentious about this, we have no other practice -- nor do the churches of God" (1 Corinthians 11:16). As I post today's blog, I have long hair. Does this mean I should live in disgrace? I suppose no more than Samson or Samuel, although I have not taken a Nazirite vow (Numbers 6:5). Many today refuse to allow a woman to preach at the pulpit (1 Corinthians 14:34-35) or to even teach at all to men (1 Timothy 2:11-12). Should this still be the case? Even Paul claims that in Christ there is no male or female (Galatians 3:26-28). I'd argue that it has nothing to do with civility or an ancient, sexist culture, but everything to do with righteousness. So, then, is righteousness chauvinistic? Not unless you consider God to be a misogynist. For more insight into Paul's theology of the time, read this. (*An ongoing debate between me and my brother-in-law, that is, and sometimes over Scotch.)

If you remember incorrectly, Paul cut off the ear of a Pharisee. After Jesus healed it, he blinded Paul, who was forced to use a sword in order to poke his way around all of Asia Minor.

Definitive Answers to Tough Questions Sunday, May 7, 2023 At www.holierthanthou.info I have tried over the years to answer questions -- mainly my own. Most are definitive but some aren't so black and white, like this one: Why does God allow so many people to go to hell if he loves everyone and desires that none should perish? (Ezekiel 33:11, 2 Peter 3:9, 1 Timothy 2:4)

Above all, you must understand that in the last days scoffers will come, scoffing and following their own evil desires. They will say, "Where is this 'coming' he promised? Ever since our ancestors died, everything goes on as it has since the beginning of creation." But they deliberately forget that long ago by God's word the heavens came into being and the earth was formed out of water and by water. By these waters also the world of that time was deluged and destroyed. By the same word the present heavens and earth are reserved for fire, being kept for the day of judgment and destruction of the ungodly. But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. (2 Peter 3:3-9, NIV)

My attitude, like many who are close to my way of reasoning, is that it is a moot point and utterly inarguable. God's ways are not our ways (Isaiah 55:8-9), his timing is not ours (Psalm 90:3-6, 2 Peter 3:8), and He will do as He pleases (Isaiah 46:10). The Bible is replete with Scripture revealing that God is wrathful but seeks to save us from his wrath and I for one would rather be on God's side than counted among those who reject Him and I'd also rather not question His ways (Proverbs 3:5-6). However... There is no good answer to this particular question; at least no reasonable answer that I am aware of. Christians believe that God will save those who believe in Jesus Christ because that is what the New Testament plainly says (John 3:16-17, John 5:24, Acts 4:12, Romans 8:1-39, 10:9-10, 1 John 5:11-13, Etcetera). So, then, we wait patiently for our deliverance (Romans 8:18-25). But to those who are perishing on the highway to hell, our answers of "man's free will" and "God's patience and longsuffering" are not acceptable; nor are they to us (Revelation 6:9-11).

One of you will say to me: "Then why does God still blame us? For who is able to resist his will?" But who are you, a human being, to talk back to God? "Shall what is formed say to the one who formed it, 'Why did you make me like this?'"[Isaiah 29:16, 45:9] Does not the potter have the right to make out of the same lump of clay some pottery for special purposes and some for common use? What if God, although choosing to show his wrath and make his power known, bore with great patience the objects of his wrath -- prepared for destruction? What if he did this to make the riches of his glory known to the objects of his mercy, whom he prepared in advance for glory -- even us, whom he also called, not only from the Jews but also from the Gentiles? (Romans 9:19-24, NIV)

Again, why does God allow so many people to go to hell if he loves everyone and desires that none should perish? If it is inevitable that Jesus shall return to judge the living and the dead, then why wait a moment longer and at least prevent more of the people He created from "choosing" to go to hell, whether they willingly know what they are doing, don't know any better, or just don't care? Undoubtedly, God wants plenty of people to come to Him and the more the merrier, so He can afford to wait a little longer. Yet for approximately every one soul who is saved, there are innumerable souls which are damned. This is troubling to a rational mind and has been a strong reason for people's disbelief altogether. It is also troublesome to a compassionate mind and a reason why some have drifted from their faith. Apart from being a religious and philosophical conundrum -- and predestination aside -- it's not something that might cause anxiety or a loss of sleep for those who do not consider themselves enemies of God. If that's what the lost are -- enemies of God -- then the question is, in fact, irrelevant. Or is it still? When Jesus said that the shepherd will leave the ninety-nine to go after the one lost sheep (Matthew 18:12-14, Luke 15:3-7), who exactly was he referring to? And who is the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32), if not the unbeliever?

Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. Don't have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. And the Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will. (2 Timothy 2:22-26, NIV)

Maybe the answer is justice. Rather than a merciful annihilation, God sends sinners to hell for eternal punishment, just like liberal states don't employ the death penalty but they will incarcerate a convicted criminal for life, even releasing lesser offenders to make room for violent offenders. This, of course, is a stupid line of reasoning because it's comparing apples to turds. Or perhaps "hell" is just a misinterpretation of the New Testament and every translation got Matthew 25:41 wrong by rendering the destination of those cursed by Jesus as "eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels," including the New World Translation of the Jehovah's Witnesses, who actually deny the existence of hell and instead promote the merciful annihilation theory. Or maybe they're right because Revelation 20:14 prophesies that death and hell will be thrown into the lake of fire, which is considered the second death. So maybe hell is not eternal. Still, why does God allow so many people to go to hell if he loves everyone and desires that none should perish? I shall keep my eyes peeled for a suitable answer while avoiding online snares like Quora and Reddit. To be continued. In the meantime, the best answer I can give is that there is a certain number of people to be saved and, until this goal is attained, the greater number of those who don't fear God or accept his personal sacrifice shall be damned to hell as a serious reality check to all involved.

The Great Byble of 1539 Saturday, May 6, 2023 odaye ys Seint George's Daye and the coronacioun of Kynge Charles III of Englaland, which remindes me -- on thys daye in 1541, Kynge Henry VIII ordred a copye of the fyrst athorised edicion of the Byble in the Englyshe tonge, the Great Byble of 1539, be putte in everich chirche. In such honour am I writing thys blogge poste in the Englyshe facioun of the tyme and willen refer all scrypture to the Great Byble. If you remembre, the Great Byble waes adapten from the Englyshe Newe Testament by William Tyndale in 1526 (who waes putte to death as a heretik for its making) along with the Latin Vulgate by Seint Jerome and sundry German tonges. Myles Coverdale and Richard Grafton travelled to Paris in ordre to print the fyrst copyes at perilleus rysk of being seised and tryed for heresie by the Inquisition. Seven subsequent edicions were published by 1541 for a hole of 9,000 copyes. To beholden all erly Englyshe Bybles, visit the Textus Receptus. Plese pardonen my Erly Moderne Englyshe, I haven an heard tyme ynough with Moderne Englyshe.

For God so loue the worlde, that, he gaue is only begotten sonne, that whosoeuer beleueth in him, shulde not perisshe, but haue euerlastyng lyfe. For God sent not his sonne into the worlde, to condempne the worlde but that the world through him myght be saued. He that beleueth on him, is not condemned. But he that beleueth not, is condemned all ready, because he hath not beleued in the name of the onely begotten sonne of God, And thys is the condemnacion: that lyght is come into the world, and men loued darcknes more then light, because their dedes were euyll.

John 3:16-19, Great Byble

Thursday, May 4, 2023

Today, everyone who thinks themselves witty is saying, "May the fourth be with you," as a nod to the Star Wars franchise and it's catch phrase, "May the force be with you." Tomorrow, they will then say, "Today is revenge of the fifth," in honor of Star Wars: Episode III -- Revenge of the Sith, or even refer to Saturday as Revenge of the Sixth. Well, I enjoy Star Wars as much as the next nerd, with the exception of Jar Jar Binks, of course, but I have to put my battery-powered saber down when it comes to endorsing the franchise, not just because I lack the qualifications as a true geek but because I am a realist. Star Wars is fiction and anti-biblical simply because it thwarts the beginning of God's creation by claiming that a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away, other activities were already set in motion before YHWH created us. If you really want to get down to the religious nitty-gritty, read this treatise. I don't take it that seriously, though. I have been enjoying The Mandalorian series and appreciate what Jon Favreau and his team have been doing with it -- except, of course, for the constant mantra of, "This is the way." (John 14:6, Acts 9:2, 19:9, 19:23, 24:14, 24:22, Hebrews 10:20, 2 Peter 2:2)

Major Rogation Tuesday, April 25, 2023 This week is the celebration of Ascension Thursday and, like most days leading up to a traditional celebration in Western Christianity (Catholics, Lutherans, Anglicans, Episcopalians), there are some preliminary measures which include prayers, fasting, abstinence and supplications -- in this case they are called Rogation Days (fifth century, Latin rogare, "to ask"), during which efforts are directed toward appeasing God's anger at man's transgressions, asking protection in calamities, and to obtain a good and bountiful harvest, according to the Catholic Encyclopedia. Arguably, this may have been the permutation of a pagan holiday -- Robigalia: the Roman celebration in honor of the diety of agricultural disease, Robigus. The 25th is Major Rogation, set apart fom the juxtapositional days of Minor Rogation by a procession of clergy and parishoners around the boundary of the parish, which is called beating the bounds. At certain points along the route, everyone stops at an altar and sings Psalms or chants antiphons, the words of which are also Psalms. This is also an occasion for reciting the Litany of the Saints:

Lord, have mercy on us. Lord, have mercy on us. Christ, have mercy on us. Christ, have mercy on us. Lord, have mercy on us. Lord, have mercy on us. Christ, hear us. Christ, graciously hear us. God, the Father of Heaven, have mercy on us. God the Son, Redeemer of the world, have mercy on us. God the Holy Spirit, have mercy on us. Holy Trinity, one God, have mercy on us. The God of the Bible, have mercy on us. Holy Mary, pray for us. Holy Mother of God, pray for us. Holy Virgin of Virgins, pray for us. Madonna of the Infant Christ, not the pop singer, pray for us. St. Michael, St. Gabriel, St. Raphael, pray for us. All you Holy Angels and Archangels pray for us. St. John the Baptist, pray for us. St. Joseph, pray for us. All you Holy Patriarchs and Prophets, pray for us. St. Peter, St. Paul, St. Andrew, St. James, St. John, St. Thomas, St. James, St. Philip, St. Bartholomew, St. Matthew, St. Simon, St. Jude, St. Matthias, St. Barnabas, St. Luke, St. Mark, pray for us. All you Holy Apostles and Evangelists, pray for us. All you Holy Disciples of the Lord, pray for us. All you Holy Innocents, pray for us. St. Stephen, St. Lawrence, St. Vincent, St. Fabian and Sebastian, St. John and Paul, St. Cosmas and Damian, pray for us. All you Holy Martyrs, pray for us. St. Sylvester, St. Gregory, St. Ambrose, St. Augustine, St. Jerome, St. Martin, St. Nicholas, pray for us. All you Holy Bishops and Confessors, pray for us. All you Holy Doctors, pray for us. St. Anthony, St. Benedict, St. Bernard, St. Dominic, St. Francis, pray for us. All you Holy Priests and Levites, pray for us. All you Holy Monks and Hermits, pray for us. St. Mary Magdalene, St. Agatha, St. Lucy, St. Agnes, St. Cecilia, St. Anastasia, St. Catherine, St. Clare, pray for us. All you Holy Virgins and Widows, pray for us. All you Holy Saints of God, pray for us. All you who are better than us, pray for us. Lord, be merciful. Lord, save your people. From all evil. Lord, save your people. From all sin. Lord, save your people. From your wrath. Lord, save your people. From a sudden and unprovided death. Lord, save your people. From ourselves. Lord, save your people. From the snares of the devil. Lord, save your people. From anger, hatred and all ill-will. Lord, save your people. From the spirit of uncleanness. Lord, save your people. From the tortures and painful executions of the Inquisition. Lord, save your people. From lightning and tempest. Lord, save your people. From the sword of the Muslim. Lord, save your people. From the scourge of earthquake. Lord, save your people. From plague, famine and war. Lord, save your people. From everlasting death. Lord, save your people. From falling asleep right here and now. Lord, save your people. By the mystery of your Holy Incarnation, Lord, save your people. By Your Coming, Lord, save your people. By Your Birth, Lord, save your people. By Your Baptism and Holy Fasting, Lord, save your people. By Your Cross and Passion, Lord, save your people. By Your Death and Burial, Lord, save your people. By Your Holy Resurrection, Lord, save your people. By Your wonderful Ascension, Lord, save your people. By the coming of the Holy Spirit, Lord, save your people. By your flying saucers, Lord, save your people. On the Day of Judgment, Lord, save your people. Be merciful to us sinners. Lord, hear our prayer. That you will spare us. Lord, hear our prayer. That you will pardon us. Lord, hear our prayer. That it may please you to bring us to true penance. Lord, hear our prayer. That we may no longer be subjected to the sarcasm and cynicism of the atheist. Lord, hear our prayer. Guide and protect your holy Church. Lord, hear our prayer. Preserve in holy religion the Pope/Archbishop of Canterbury/President of the Lutheran World Federation/Presiding Bishop and Primate, and all those in holy Orders. Lord, hear our prayer. Humble the enemies of Your holy Church. Lord, hear our prayer. Give peace and unity to the whole Christian people, including televangelists and prosperity preachers. Lord, hear our prayer. Bring back to the unity of the Church all those who are straying, gather the heretics we have excommunicated, and bring all unbelievers to the light of the Gospel. Lord, hear our prayer. Strengthen and preserve us in your holy service. Lord, hear our prayer. Raise our minds to desire the things of heaven. Lord, hear our prayer. Reward all our benefactors with eternal blessings. Lord, hear our prayer. Deliver our souls from eternal damnation, and the souls of our brethren, relatives, and benefactors. Lord, hear our prayer. Give and preserve the fruits of the earth - even alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, psilocybin, opium, and lysergic acid diethylamide. Lord, hear our prayer. Grant eternal rest to all the faithful departed. Lord, hear our prayer. That it may please You to hear and heed us, Jesus, Son of the Living God. Lord, hear our prayer. Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world, spare us, O Lord! Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world, graciously hear us, O Lord! Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world, have mercy on us. Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world, forgive our monotonous repetition. Christ, hear us. Christ, graciously hear us. Lord Jesus, hear our prayer. Lord Jesus, hear our prayer. Lord, have mercy on us. Lord, have mercy on us. Christ, have mercy on us. Christ, have mercy on us. Lord, have mercy on us. Lord, have mercy on us. Whew! Amen.

Of Plimoth Plantation Saturday, April 22, 2023
Today is International Mother Earth Day and whether you believe that planting trees is beneficial or not is of no concern to this blog. Let us return instead to greener times. Let us go back to the beginning of our glorious country when the Pilgrims first started ravaging the lush and fertile lands of America. We now continue with William Bradford's harrowing account of Plymouth Plantation:
	These passengers, when they saw their low and poore condition a shore, were much danted and dismayed, and according to their diverse humores were diversly affected; some wished them selves in England againe; others fell a weeping, fancying their own miserie in what yey saw now in others; other some pitying the distress they saw their freinds had been long in, and still were under; in a word, all were full of sadnes. Only some of their old freinds rejoysed to see them, and that it was no worse with them, for they could not expecte it should be better, and now hoped they should injoye better days togeather. And truly it was no marvell they should be thus affected, for they were in a very low condition, many were ragged in aparell, and some litle beter then halfe naked; though some that were well stord before, were well enough in this regard. But for food they were all alike, save some that had got a few pease of ye ship that was last hear. The best dish they could presente their freinds with was a lobster, or a peece of fish, without bread or any thing els but a cupp of fair spring water. And ye long continuance of this diate, and their labours abroad, had something abated ye freshnes of their former complexion. But God gave them health and strength in a good measure; and shewed them by experience ye truth of that word, Deut. 8. 3. That man liveth not by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of ye mouth of ye Lord doth a man live. When I think how sadly ye scripture speaks of the famine in Jaakobs time, when he said to his sonns, Goe buy us food, that we may live and not dye. Gen. 42. 2. and 43. 1, that the famine was great, or heavie in the land; and yet they had such great herds, and store of catle of sundrie kinds, which, besids flesh, must needs produse other food, as milke, butter and cheese, etc., and yet it was counted a sore affliction; theirs hear must needs be very great, therfore, who not only wanted the staffe of bread, but all these things, and had no Egipte to goe too. But God fedd them out of ye sea for ye most parte, so wonderfull is his providence over his in all ages; for his mercie endureth for ever. On ye other hand the old planters were affraid that their corne, when it was ripe, should be imparted to ye new-comers, whose provissions wch they brought with them they feared would fall short before ye year wente aboute (as indeed it did). They came to ye Govr and besought him that as it was before agreed that they should set corne for their perticuler, and accordingly they had taken extraordinary pains ther aboute, that they might freely injoye the same, and they would not have a bitte of ye victails now come, but waite till harvest for their owne, and let ye new-comers injoye what they had brought; they would have none of it, excepte they could purchase any of it of them by bargaine or exchainge. Their requeste was granted them, for it gave both sides good contente; for ye new-comers were as much afraid that ye hungrie planters would have eat up ye provissions brought, and they should have fallen into ye like condition. This ship was in a shorte time laden with clapbord, by ye help of many hands. Also they sente in her all ye beaver and other furrs they had, and Mr. Winslow was sent over with her, to informe of all things, and procure such things as were thought needfull for their presente condition. By this time harvest was come, and in stead of famine, now God gave them plentie, and ye face of things was changed, to ye rejoysing of ye harts of many, for which they blessed God. And ye effect of their particuler planting was well seene, for all had, one way and other, pretty well to bring ye year aboute, and some of ye abler sorte and more industrious had to spare, and sell to others, so as any generall wante or famine hath not been amongst them since to this day. Those that come on their perticuler looked for greater matters then they found or could attaine unto, aboute building great houses, and such pleasant situations for them, as them selves had fancied; as if they would be great men and rich, all of a sudaine; but they proved castls in ye aire. These were ye conditions agreed on betweene ye colony and them. First, that ye Govr, in ye name and with ye consente of ye company, doth in all love and frendship receive and imbrace them; and is to allote them competente places for habitations within ye towne. And promiseth to shew them all such other curtesies as shall be reasonable for them to desire, or us to performe. 2. That they, on their parts, be subjecte to all such laws and orders as are already made, or hear after shall be, for ye publick good. 3. That they be freed and exempte from ye generall imployments of the said company, (which their presente condition of comunitie requireth,) excepte commune defence, and such other imployments as tend to ye perpetuall good of ye collony. 4ly. Towards ye maintenance of Govrt, and publick officers of ye said collony, every male above ye age of 16 years shall pay a bushell of Indean wheat, or ye worth of it, into ye commone store. 5ly. That (according to ye agreemente ye marchants made with ym before they came) they are to be wholy debared from all trade with the Indeans for all sorts of furrs, and such like commodities, till ye time of ye comunallitie be ended.
To be continued. Now, lest you find this episode a tad boring, bear in mind that these settlers thought they were going to become rich from the bounty of their hard work in converting the beautiful forest landscape into farmland. However, for all their efforts to devastate this newly discovered natural habitat, they were rewarded with enough just to survive, although they succeeded in laying the foundation for future generations of commercial farmers and industrialists to prosper from despoiling the environment and thus quickening the second coming of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Remember, the more we try to save this planet, the longer we delay the Apocalypse. For the document in its entirety, visit Project Gutenberg.

Theotimos Lorem Ipsum Thursday, April 20, 2023 Today we remember Theotimos, the late fourth-century bishop of the Scythian diocese of Tomi on the Black Sea in what is now Romania. What is known of Theotimos is that he was a philosopher and writer with long hair and a miracle worker among the Huns. Unfortunately, I couldn't find any of his remaining texts online, most of which apparently didn't survive. Normally, I'd consider this a bust and forego posting anything. However, today we still remember Theotimos, the late fourth-century bishop of the Scythian diocese of Tomi on the Black Sea in what is now Romania. What is known of Theotimos is that he was a philosopher and writer with long hair and a miracle worker among the Huns. Here is some random text generated by Aldus PageMaker as a placeholder for a sample of the writing of Theotimos: "Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Enim ut sem viverra aliquet eget sit amet. Nec tincidunt praesent semper feugiat nibh. Platea dictumst vestibulum rhoncus est pellentesque. In dictum non consectetur a. Sit amet justo donec enim diam vulputate ut pharetra sit. Malesuada bibendum arcu vitae elementum curabitur. Id interdum velit laoreet id. Penatibus et magnis dis parturient montes nascetur ridiculus mus mauris. Convallis tellus id interdum velit laoreet id donec ultrices tincidunt. Massa tempor nec feugiat nisl pretium fusce id velit."

Battle on the Ice Tuesday, April 18, 2023

On this day in 1242 (according to the Russian Julian calendar), Eastern Orthodox forces under the guidance and protection of Christ defeated Roman Catholic forces under the guidance and protection of Christ on Lake Peipus between Estonia and Russia, near the city of Pskov. German and Estonian forces led by the Teutonic Knights of the Livonian Order engaged Russian forces of the Novgorod Republic led by Prince Alexander Nevsky on the frozen lake in a skirmish that was part of the Baltic Crusades. The civilized Catholics were outnumbered nearly sixty to one by the Orthodox barbarians and, although they fought valiantly, were defeated. However, it was ultimately a victory for Christ. Although the two Churches separated in 1054 and have never quite joined in communion, nor have they joined in communion with the Oriental Orthodox Churches, all three factions adhere to similar basic Christian beliefs and traditions. To a pagan outsider, one may seem indistinguishable from the other. However, Jesus can undoubtedly appreciate the difference. (Pictured: Outnumbered Teutonic Knights battle fiercely against the determined forces of Novgorod on Lake Peipus. Final score: Russians 4 - Germans 1.)

Dark Confessions Sunday, April 16, 2023 Today we celebrate those of the Christian faith who had unusual names, including Drogo of Sebourg, Fructuosus of Braga, Turibius of Astorga, and Degonwadonti of Canajoharie. Of course, they may not have been unusual for the time and today they may have been named Doug, Frank, Todd, and Molly. Actually, the last one was the English name for a Mohawk female of the Iroquois League in eighteenth-century Upstate New York, known as Molly Brandt (1736-1796). A British Loyalist during the American Revolutionary War, Brandt was instrumental to the British as an interpreter and negotiator for what she believed was the best course of action for her indigenous peoples. After the war, she relocated with her remaining family to Ontario and is now commemorated by the Anglican Church of Canada. Today I also feel compelled to confess that I have been binge-watching the first few seasons of Little House on the Prairie and, although I consider it wholesome, family entertainment the way God intended, it has revealed in me a heart made of stone. For example, while watching episode nine of season three with guest appearances by Geoffrey Lewis, Roy Jenson, and Michael LeClair, I felt as though I wanted to not only tar and feather the Galender brothers and run them out of town on a rail, but I wanted to punish the actors who portrayed them. I also wanted to punch Reverend Alden in the face. Strong feelings of malice against Harriet Oleson and an impure attraction to Nellie Oleson I had as an adolescent were stirred up. I imagined myself as the marshal of Walnut Grove in Hero Township who would lock up minor offenders in a public stockade block and hang felons in the town square. I would have horse whipped Seth Johnson from episode 15 of season three and Willie Aames would have never grown up to become Bible Man. This Emmy Award-winning series may have brought out the best in humanity but it brought out the worst in me. I now have to face the fact that I am a horrible human being and a fake, hypocritical Christian. (Pictured: Real Ingalls of Walnut Grove)

Shameless Self-Promotion Saturday, April 15, 2023 Today we remember Damien De Veuster (1840-1889), who went on a little vacation to Hawaii where he became the patron saint of lepers. We also remember Hunna of Alsace, who died in A.D. 679 after earning the nickname "Holy Washerwoman" for tending to the domestic needs of the poor and needy in her community. Let us also not forget Abbo II of Metz, who died in A.D. 707, leaving behind little about his legacy, which makes him the patron saint of chopped liver. Then there's Padarn of Wales -- not to be confused with Paternus of Avranches, who may or may not have been one and the same -- who supposedly converted King Arthur to Christianity in the sixth century. Also, Abraham Lincoln died on this day in 1865, the RMS Titanic sank on this day in 1912, Insulin was made available to people with diabetes in 1923, the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp was liberated in 1945, Jackie Robinson debuted for the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1947, and McDonald's restaurant was founded in 1955. Oh, and if you are a U.S. citizen, don't forget to file your taxes, unless you are an Orthodox Jew or a Seventh Day Adventist and don't do any work on Shabbat. Now, please enjoy this short story from my upcoming book, Contes de Romance Peu Orthodoxe, (ISBN: 9798359864084):

Brother MacDonagle awoke at 4:00AM, said his prayers, crossed himself, joined his fellow monastic brethren for Vespers, hymns and canticles, celebrated Mass, ate a bowl of porridge in the silent refectory, then headed into town to visit the godless wretches of society. On his way, he passed a group of nuns from the Abbey of Saint Mary the Incessantly Divine. He habitually diverted his eyes as they walked by in the opposite direction but one of them at the back, Sister Mary Francis Marguerite O'Flanigan, said, "Peace be with you." Without a second thought, he turned and replied, "And also with you." Their green eyes met and her pale cheeks blushed. He quickly looked away and hurried on into town to attend to the salvation of the worst of God's lost children. That night after evening Vespers, hymns, and canticles, he retired to his humble living quarters consisting of a straw bed and a small table upon which rested a Gideon's Bible. After saying his prayers, he disrobed and flagellated his back with a cattail whip composed of knotted cords as he confessed his transgressions against the Lord and his sister in Christ, Mary Francis Marguerite O'Flanigan. Brother MacDonagle awoke to the monastery's bell ringing for midnight Angelus. He had mortified himself until fainting upon the cold, stone floor. After meditating upon the birth and death of Jesus on our behalf, he crossed himself and lay back down on the straw bed. At 4:00AM, he awoke, said his prayers, crossed himself, joined his fellow monastic brethren for Vespers, hymns and canticles, celebrated Mass, fasted from a bowl of porridge in the silent refectory, then headed into town to deliver bread to the poor and needy. While there, he saw in the market a display of fresh, delicious apples. Hungered, he approached and reached out his hand to take hold of one of the tempting fruits at the same moment another prospective customer reached to grab it. As their hands touched, he looked up once again into the green eyes of Sister Mary Francis Marguerite O'Flanigan. Quickly, he turned, pulled up his robe to his knees, and ran back to the monastery, where he flagellated himself once again inside his small, humble living quarters. He then went and confessed his transgression to the Abbot and they both agreed that the logical next step was emasculation of his loins. Exhausted from his visit to the Holy Gelding Chamber, Brother McDonagle slept through the midnight call for meditation but awoke at 4:00AM. After saying his prayers, crossing himself, joining his fellow monastic brethren for Vespers, hymns and canticles, celebrating Mass, and fasting from a bowl of porridge in the silent refectory, he then went to the monastic brewery to assist with grinding grain. At noon, while his monastic brethren gathered in the refectory for a bowl of lentil soup over the reading of Scripture, Brother MacDonagle slipped out the back and into a field, where he dropped to his knees and prayed. As he was praying earnestly with his hands clasped tightly together, someone approached him. When he opened his eyes to see who it was, they were blocking the sun. Brother MacDonagle squinted his eyes and held his hand over his brow to shield from the light. The individual before him appeared to have a halo around their head. At first, he thought he was having a vision of the Blessed Virgin Mary and cried out, "I am unworthy!" The apparition replied, "Peace be with you." It was the voice of Sister Mary Francis Marguerite O'Flanigan. As she came into view, he could see plainly that it was, in fact, she. He stood and ran from her, shouting, "Get thee behind me, Satan!" He ran as fast as he could for as long as he could until he fell upon the ground, exhausted. Panting and in extreme pain from the recent castration, he fainted. At midnight, he awoke to the distant bells of the monastery. Arising, he meditated upon the birth and death of Jesus on our behalf, crossed himself, then continued on his personal exodus. The weary monk walked for days into the wooded hills and up into the cavernous mountains, away from any other living soul. Brother MacDonagle then lived the rest of his life as a solitary hermit in dedication to Jesus Christ; just as many ascetic eremites before and since have done.

Himmelserscheinung über Nürnberg Friday, April 14, 2023 In the morning of April 14, 1561, at daybreak, between 4 and 5 a.m., a dreadful apparition occurred on the sun, and then this was seen in Nuremberg in the city, before the gates and in the country – by many men and women. At first there appeared in the middle of the sun two blood-red semi-circular arcs, just like the moon in its last quarter. And in the sun, above and below and on both sides, the color was blood, there stood a round ball of partly dull, partly black ferrous color. Likewise there stood on both sides and as a torus about the sun such blood-red ones and other balls in large number, about three in a line and four in a square, also some alone. In between these globes there were visible a few blood-red crosses, between which there were blood-red strips, becoming thicker to the rear and in the front malleable like the rods of reed-grass, which were intermingled, among them two big rods, one on the right, the other to the left, and within the small and big rods there were three, also four and more globes. These all started to fight among themselves, so that the globes, which were first in the sun, flew out to the ones standing on both sides, thereafter, the globes standing outside the sun, in the small and large rods, flew into the sun. Besides the globes flew back and forth among themselves and fought vehemently with each other for over an hour. And when the conflict in and again out of the sun was most intense, they became fatigued to such an extent that they all, as said above, fell from the sun down upon the earth 'as if they all burned' and they then wasted away on the earth with immense smoke. After all this there was something like a black spear, very long and thick, sighted; the shaft pointed to the east, the point pointed west. Whatever such signs mean, God alone knows. Although we have seen, shortly one after another, many kinds of signs on the heaven, which are sent to us by the almighty God, to bring us to repentance, we still are, unfortunately, so ungrateful that we despise such high signs and miracles of God. Or we speak of them with ridicule and discard them to the wind, in order that God may send us a frightening punishment on account of our ungratefulness. After all, the God-fearing will by no means discard these signs, but will take it to heart as a warning of their merciful Father in heaven, will mend their lives and faithfully beg God, that He may avert His wrath, including the well-deserved punishment, on us, so that we may temporarily here and perpetually there, live as his children. For it, may God grant us his help, Amen. By Hanns Glaser, letter-painter of Nurnberg.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer Sunday, April 10, 2023 What's worse than having your birthday on Christmas? Having your feast day on Easter. Today we celebrate the resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. However, we should be doing this every day. In that light, let us also join with the Lutherans and Anglicans in commemorating Dietrich Bonhoeffer (1906-1945), a German pastor and theologian who was executed by the Nazis at the close of WWII for his dissidence. True, he didn't die for the sins of mankind, but he did give his life to that end. Nor did he write the Gospels, but he did compose some pretty good reads in his lifetime. Here are some inspiritational quotes from Bonhoeffer for those who are into inspiritational quotes: Salvation is free, but discipleship will cost you your life. Jesus does not mean that a smile on the face is to be a sort of stereotyped expression of Christianity; he is referring rather to the proper hiddenness of Christian behaviour, to that humility which is wholly unselfconscious, even as the eye can see other people but can never see itself. Such hiddenness will one day be made manifest, but that will be God's doing, not ours. It is not an approved standard of righteous living that separates a follower of Christ from the unbeliever, but it is Christ who stands between them. Our easy trafficking with the word of cheap grace simply bores the world to disgust, so that in the end it turns against those who try to force on it what it does not want. Thus a strict limit is placed upon the activities of the disciples, just as in Matt 10 they are told to shake the dust off their feet where the word of peace is refused a healing. Their restless energy which refuses to recognize any limit to their activity, the zeal which refuses to take note of resistance, springs from a confusion of the gospel with a victorious ideology. An ideology requires fanatics, who neither know nor notice opposition, and it is certainly a potent force. But the Word of God in its weakness takes the risk of meeting the scorn of men and being rejected. May God in His mercy lead us through these times; but above all, may He lead us to Himself. To try and force the Word on the world by hook or by crook is to make the living Word of God into a mere idea, and the world would be perfectly justified in refusing to listen to an idea for which it had no use. When Christ calls a man, he bids him come and die. What are the disciples to do when they encounter opposition and cannot penetrate the hearts of men? They must admit that in no circumstances do they possess any rights or powers over others, and that they have no direct access over them. The only way to reach others is through him in whose hands they are themselves like all other men... The disciples are taught to pray, and so they learn that the only way to reach others is by praying to God. Judgment and forgiveness are always in the hands of God. He closes and he opens. But the disciples must ask, they must seek and knock, and then God will hear them. They have to learn that their anxiety and concern for others must drive them to intercession. The promise Christ gives to their prayers is the doughtiest weapon in their armory. Your life as a Christian should make non believers question their disbelief in God. The difference between the disciples' seeking and the Gentiles' quest for God is that the disciples know what they are looking for. We can only seek God when we know him already. How can you look for something or find it if you do not know what you are looking for? The disciples seek a God whom they have found in the promise they have received from Jesus. Christianity preaches the infinite worth of that which is seemingly worthless and the infinite worthlessness of that which is seemingly so valued. Cheap grace is the grace we bestow on ourselves. Cheap grace is the preaching of forgiveness without requiring repentance, baptism without church discipline, Communion without confession... Cheap grace is grace without discipleship, grace without the cross, grace without Jesus Christ, living and incarnate... Cheap grace is the idea that "grace" did it all for me so I do not need to change my lifestyle. The believer who accepts the idea of cheap grace thinks he can continue to live like the rest of the world. Instead of following Christ in a radical way, the Christian lost in cheap grace thinks he can simply enjoy the consolations of his grace. Nothing that we despise in other men is inherently absent from ourselves. We must learn to regard people less in the light of what they do or don't do, and more in light of what they suffer. The blessedness of waiting is lost on those who cannot wait, and the fulfillment of promise is never theirs. They want quick answers to the deepest questions of life and miss the value of those times of anxious waiting, seeking with patient uncertainties until the answers come. They lose the moment when the answers are revealed in dazzling clarity. The community of the saints is not an 'ideal' community consisting of perfect and sinless men and women, where there is no need of further repentance. No, it is a community which proves that it is worthy of the gospel of forgiveness by constantly and sincerely proclaiming God's forgiveness. Silence in the face of evil is itself evil: God will not hold us guiltless. Not to speak is to speak. Not to act is to act. God loves human beings. God loves the world. Not an ideal human, but human beings as they are; not an ideal world, but the real world. What we find repulsive in their opposition to God, what we shrink back from with pain and hostility, namely, real human beings, the real world, this is for God the ground of unfathomable love. The messengers of Jesus will be hated to the end of time. They will be blamed for all the division which rend cities and homes. Jesus and his disciples will be condemned on all sides for undermining family life, and for leading the nation astray; they will be called crazy fanatics and disturbers of the peace. The disciples will be sorely tempted to desert their Lord. But the end is also near, and they must hold on and persevere until it comes. Only he will be blessed who remains loyal to Jesus and his word until the end. He who fears the face of God does not fear the face of man. He who fears the face of man does not fear the face of God. The great masquerade of evil has played havoc with all our ethical concepts. For evil to appear disguised as light, charity, historical necessity, or social justice is quite bewildering to anyone brought up on our traditional ethical concepts, while for the Christian who bases his life on the Bible, it merely confirms the fundamental wickedness of evil. The devil doesn't fill us with hatred for God, but with forgetfulness of God. Can't get enough? Go here. Want to read one of his books? Go here.

Here Comes Peter Cottontail Saturday, April 8, 2023 This weekend we dishonor the resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ with Brach's individually wrapped, pastel-colored, marshmallow eggs, which are an affront to both God and man. It's the second time of the year for pagans to go to church because their heathen children were lured there with candy. Easter is the celebration of the resurrection of Christ from the dead after dying on the cross, originally observed in conjunction with the Jewish Passover, or Pesach. As the culmination of Lent, commemorating the forty days Jesus spent fasting in the desert while enduring temptation by Satan, Easter is observed sometime between March 22 and April 25, on the first Sunday following the full moon after the spring equinox (not necessarily the astronomical full moon, but the ecclesiastical full moon fourteen days after the new moon based on a set vernal equinox of March 21, corresponding to the Gregorian calendar), established in A.D. 325 by the Council of Nicaea. As with Christmas, Easter is an attempt by the early Christian Church to adapt pagan festivals to Christian holy days in an attempt to supplant them, with the side effects being some rather bizarre traditions. The most popular secular practice of Easter is hiding and finding decorated eggs, which comes from an ancient Roman tradition of exchanging boiled and decorated eggs in the springtime as a symbol of rebirth. The egg later became a symbol of Christ's rebirth from the tomb. Although eggs weren't normally allowed to be eaten during Lent, various allowances, particularly indulgences, fostered the exchange of Easter eggs for charitable contributions. The Easter bunny can be traced to the goddess Eostra, whose fertility symbol was a rabbit. One legend maintains that she transformed a bird into a hare in order to save its life, but it retained the ability to lay eggs. Introduced in America by eighteenth-century German immigrants, the Easter bunny, named Oschter Haws, would reportedly lay red eggs, the color of Christ's shed blood, on Maundy Thursday. These red eggs were believed to preserve good health throughout the following year to those who ate them. Sunrise services are often held on Easter morning in memory of the empty tomb discovered by the disciples (Matthew 28:1-10, Mark 16:1-8, Luke 24:1-12, John 20:1-18), signifying Christ's resurrection from the dead. Some early Christians observed Easter at the same time as the Jewish Passover, on the fourteenth day of the Jewish month of Nisan. The Roman Catholic Church referred to these observers as Quartodecimans, or "Fourteenth Day Christians," and eventually labeled them as heretics. Holy Week is the week preceding Easter consisting of Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday. After Easter comes Pentecost, or Whitsunday (White Sunday) which is generally observed on the seventh Sunday after Easter. Ascension Day, commemorating the ascension of Christ to heaven, is observed ten days before Pentecost, preceded three days prior by Rogation Sunday (prayer of petition or supplication), a celebration of the blessings of the spring harvest. The Sunday following Pentecost is Trinity Sunday. The Thursday or Sunday following Trinity Sunday (depending on where it is observed) is Corpus Christi (Body of Christ), a celebration of the Last Supper, or Holy Communion, or Eucharist. Churches that celebrate the Eucharist as a sacramental rite with pomp and circumstance believe that the cup and wafer are the transubstantiated blood and body of Christ, which is religion, and just one more reason why they insist on making Easter services as boring as regular services because, let's face it, church is boring and unbelievers know how to have fun. But that just goes without saying.

A Frog's Content Sunday, April 2, 2023 Today is International Children's Book Day, commemorating a child's book I once wrote and then did nothing with. I only mention this because I ran across it recently buried in my laptop and wondered what it would've been like being an unemployed children's book author like everyone else instead of a part-time blogger like everyone else. My story was an attempt to answer the age-old question of whether or not frogs are capable of being happy. Spoiler alert: it concluded that happiness was of no relevance but that frogs are content, which is more than can be said about most people. Someday I'll find a child to publish my book. In the meantime, my glory days will consist of the things I never finished and the goals I failed to accomplish, just like everyone else. (Left: Bartleby, the main character, or whatever its name was going to be. Below: Some pages that never were.)

Cartwright the cantankerous crocodile, Beauregard the belligerent bass, Sawyer the sinister snake, Clara the curmudgeonly crane, and even Timothy the taciturn turtle all like the taste of Bartleby and his kin. Additional predators include Buelah, Beatrix, and Brunhilde of the Blind Bat Brigade, or BBB (not to be confused with the Better Business Bureau).

Now, a frog's brain and its parts are very small and simple compared to the larger and more complex human brain. However, a frog's brain still has the combined computational power of a bunch of robots operating a super computer.

Bartleby was placed in a jar and given a cotton pillow. This made him so sleepy that he was able to sleep through an operation called a dissection. Bartleby literally dedicated his brain to science. If that sounds gross, then ask your parent or the person helping you read if they are an organ donor. By being able to see a frog's brain, we can compare its parts to our own brain and tell what we both have in common. This includes the parts of the brain that deal with emotions and feelings like sadness, happiness, or fear of frog guts.

The details and specific names of the parts of the brain may seem boring to anyone other than a biologist, a psychologist, or a neurosurgeon, so we'll just call them the "glad glands." The glad glands consist of the Hypothalamus, Hippocampus, and Amygdala, which collectively make up the Limbic System. See? Boooooooorrriiiiiiiing! Frogs have a very primitive Limbic System. This doesn't necessarily mean they are stupid. They are smart enough to avoid paying taxes. Bartleby has a glad gland in his brain. If we could understand frogspeak, he might've been able to tell us that beforehand. Here we see a closeup of a glad gland bathing in a warm tub full of bubbly neurochemicals.

GoM Chapter 20 (Continued) Wednesday, March 29, 2023 We now return to our ongoing lesson around the camp fire from The Gospel of Martha, where Jesus is seated with his disciples and teaching them many mysterious things while Peter continually nods off.

His disciples say unto him, "When will the rest for the dead take place, and when will the new world come?" He replying saith unto them, "What ye look forward to hath come, but ye are they who are dead. Now arise, and usher in, for the world will be cleansed and made shiny as new; then shall ye go back to sleep, for before were ye just taking a nap." His disciples say unto him, "Four and twenty prophets have spoken in Isræl, and all spake of thee." He saith unto them, "Ye have disregarded the living Word, who is in your presence, and ye spake of the dead scrolls, wherein is written lamentations, and mournings, and woes; which in your mouths are as honey for sweetness, but sours in the belly." His disciples say unto him, "Tell us, is circumcision of benefit or not?" He answering saith unto them, "If it were of benefit, their father would beget children circumcised already from their mother. Rather the true circumcision in spirit hath become profitable in every respect. Be ye therefore circumcised of spirit, and remove the foreskin of doubt, and discard ye the smegma of ignorance." Jesus saith, "Blessed are the poor, for yours is the kingdom of heaven. But for now, ye remain poor." Jesus saith, "Whosoever doth not hate father and mother can not be my disciple, and whosoever doth not hate brothers and sisters, and carry the cross as I do, shall neither be worthy of me. Do I ask therewith of thee to bear unto thyself a cross of hatred? Certainly not! Rather spurn them who refuse to crucify thee, and abhor with loathing they that resist the nails which are due unto thee. And when they nail one hand, give therefore unto them the other, and bear with gladness of heart thy crucifixion: for assuredly will thy family do unto thee. Verily, that is what family is for." Jesus saith, "Whosoever hath come to know the world hath discovered a carcase, and whosoever hath discovered a carcase, of that person the world is not worthy. But touch ye not the world, lest ye become unclean; for the ritual of cleansing from touching a carcase is rather complicated, and somewhat drawn out, and at times a bloody mess." Jesus saith, "The kingdom of heaven is like a man who hath good seed. His enemy came during darkness of night, and sowed with gnarled hands weeds among the good seed. The man refused the workers to pull up the weeds, but said to them: Not so, otherwise ye might go to pull up the weeds and pull up the wheat along with them. For on the day of the harvest the weeds will be conspicuous, with contorted leaves, and appearance of gnarled hands, and will be pulled up and burned." Jesus saith, "Blessed is the man who hath suffered in his toil and hath found life. Cursed is the man who walketh into a room and forgets why he walketh into the room to begin with." Jesus saith, "Take heed of the living one while ye are alive, lest ye die and seek to see him, and be unable to do so. For verily I say unto you, spiritual goggles are of necessity, which are prescribed, and requireth an examination of the third eye." He saw a Samaritan carrying a lamb and going to Judæa by the light of the moon. He saith to his disciples, "That man, like unto holding a small child, carrieth he round the lamb." They say to him, "So that he may kill and eat." He saith unto them, "He will not eat of it whilst alive, but only after he hath murdered it, and drained of its blood, and it hath become a corpse." They say, "He can not otherwise." He saith unto them, "So also with you, seek for yourselves a place for rest, lest ye become a bloodless carcase, and be eaten." Jesus saith, "Two will recline on a couch; one will die, one will live." Mary Salome, never she departed from her sons, saith, "Just who art thou? Thou who hast climbed onto my couch and eaten from my table, which I have prepared for my two sons; and thou hast swallowed one and spit out the other." Jesus answering saith he unto her, "I am the one who cometh from the whole and undivided mind of the Father. I was granted from the things that decide upon the couch who will live or die, which is of my Father. And just who art thou?" Salome replieth unto him, "I am your disciple." And Jesus saith unto all, "For this reason I say, if one is whole, one will be filled with light, and he whom I see will be consumed into the warmness of my belly. But if one is divided, one will be filled with darkness, and shall be vomited out with belly residue, and partially digested chunks: the victuals of which no longer to be recognised." Jesus saith, "It is to those who are worthy of my mysteries that I disclose such mysteries as these. Let not thy left eye know what thy right eye is seeing; nor the left brain know what the right brain is thinking. Those who have ears to hear, let them hear; but let not thy left ear know what thy right ear is hearing."

Pictured: Jesus with his Christian soldiers around the camp fire. Many today do not realize that Jesus had his close followers dress alike because that's what disciplined task forces did. They also wore name tags, practiced marching in unison, and recited the Lord's Prayer together (traditional Ecumenical version in the King James language).

Remembering Richard Allen Sunday, March 26, 2023 A while back we remembered Absalom Jones, one of the first black ministers in the U.S. Today we remember one of his contemporaries, Richard Allen (1760-1831), who also bought his own freedom from slavery and became an ordained minister of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Facing racist treatment from white congregants, he and Jones formed the Free African Society in Philadelphia in 1787 for rendering aid to fugitive slaves and immigrants. In 1794, the two founded the African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas. Until his death, Allen participated in the Underground Railroad.

International Day of the Unborn Child Saturday, March 24, 2023 Today, let us not discuss free choice versus pro-life, or debate where life and consciousness begin, nor argue about the right to fetal termination under any and all circumstances, or bicker about whether or not the subject of abortion is in the Bible,* nor squabble about the propensity of men to repress women and tell them what they can and can't do with their own bodies, or even ponder God's retribution against feticide on demand. Like they say at EduDwar.com, "To complicate things even more complicated, the problem is complicated by a slew of ethical and religious considerations." Let us instead celebrate the unborn fetus, like they've been doing in South America for decades, even if it is a Catholic observance. The theme for today is the dignity and value of the unborn child. Let tomorrow carry the burden of infanticide. *Genesis 9:6, Exodus 21:22-25, Leviticus 17:4, Numbers 35:33, Deuteronomy 19:10-13, 21:1-9, 1 Kings 2:5-6, 31-33, 2 Kings 24:3-4, Ezekiel 18:10-13, Psalm 72:14

Gregory the Illuminator Thursday, March 23, 2023 Today the Anglicans celebrate Saint Gregory (circa A.D. 257-328 or 337), who single-handedly converted the nation of Armenia to Christianity after being thrown into a pit for fifteen years for calling the king a fink, then built Saint Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral, where his relics still preach the Gospel today. Rumor has it that Bartholomew and Thaddaeus were in Armenia before Gregory but that the Persians had turned all the previous churches into retail rug emporiums. To learn a little more, go here. To learn a lot more, go here.

C.A.E.J.P.A.H.M.G.V.G. Wednesday, March 22, 2023 Today we remember Clemens Augustinus Emmanuel Joseph Pius Anthonius Hubertus Marie Graf von Galen (1878-1946), Bishop of Münster and an outspoken opponent to the Nazi Gestapo during WWII. It's a wonder they didn't have him executed, although Hitler wanted to. Here's an excerpt from one of his sermons against the Third Reich's treatment of "invalids" in their own country:
	My faithful brethren! In the pastoral letter drawn up by the German Hierarchy on the 26th of June at Fulda and appointed to be read in all the churches of Germany on July 6th, it is expressly stated: 'According to Catholic doctrine, there are doubtless commandments which are not binding when obedience to them requires too great a sacrifice, but there are sacred obligations of conscience from which no one can release us and which we must fulfil even at the price of death itself. At no time, and under no circumstances whatsoever, may a man, except in war and in lawful defence, take the life of an innocent person.' When this pastoral was read on July 6th I took the opportunity of adding this exposition: For the past several months it has been reported that, on instructions from Berlin, patients who have been suffering for a long time from apparently incurable diseases have been forcibly removed from homes and clinics. Their relatives are later informed that the patient has died, that the body has been cremated and that the ashes may be claimed. There is little doubt that these numerous cases of unexpected death in the case of the insane are not natural, but often deliberately caused, and result from the belief that it is lawful to take away life which is unworthy of being lived. This ghastly doctrine tries to justify the murder of blameless men and would seek to give legal sanction to the forcible killing of invalids, cripples, the incurable and the incapacitated. I have discovered that the practice here in Westphalia is to compile lists of such patients who are to be removed elsewhere as 'unproductive citizens,' and after a period of time put to death. This very week, the first group of these patients has been sent from the clinic of Marienthal, near Münster. Paragraph 21 of the Code of Penal Law is still valid. It states that anyone who deliberately kills a man by a premeditated act will be executed as a murderer. It is in order to protect the murderers of these poor invalids -- members of our own families -- against this legal punishment, that the patients who are to be killed are transferred from their domicile to some distant institution. Some sort of disease is then given as the cause of death, but as cremation immediately follows it is impossible for either their families or the regular police to ascertain whether death was from natural causes. I am assured that at the Ministry of the Interior and at the Ministry of Health, no attempt is made to hide the fact that a great number of the insane have already been deliberately killed and that many more will follow. Article 139 of the Penal Code expressly lays down that anyone who knows from a reliable source of any plot against the life of a man and who does not inform the proper authorities or the intended victim, will be punished. . . . When I was informed of the intention to remove patients from Marienthal for the purpose of putting them to death I addressed the following registered letter on July 29th to the Public Prosecutor, the Tribunal of Münster, as well as to the Head of the Münster Police: 'I have been informed this week that a considerable number of patients from the provincial clinic of Marienthal are to be transferred as citizens alleged to be "unproductive" to the institution of Richenberg, there to be executed immediately; and that according to general opinion, this has already been carried out in the case of other patients who have been removed in like manner. Since this sort of procedure is not only contrary to moral law, both divine and natural, but is also punishable by death, according to Article 211 of the Penal Code, it is my bounden obligation in accordance with Article 139 of the same Code to inform the authorities thereof. Therefore I demand at once protection for my fellow countrymen who are threatened in this way, and from those who purpose to transfer and kill them, and I further demand to be informed of your decision.' I have received no news up till now of any steps taken by these authorities. On July 26th I had already written and dispatched a strongly worded protest to the Provincial Administration of Westphalia which is responsible for the clinics to which these patients have been entrusted for care and treatment. My efforts were of no avail. The first batch of innocent folk have left Marienthal under sentence of death, and I am informed that no less than eight hundred cases from the institution of Waestein have now gone. And so we must await the news that these wretched defenceless patients will sooner or later lose their lives. Why? Not because they have committed crimes worthy of death, not because they have attacked guardians or nurses as to cause the latter to defend themselves with violence which would be both legitimate and even in certain cases necessary, like killing an armed enemy soldier in a righteous war. No, these are not the reasons why these unfortunate patients are to be put to death. It is simply because that according to some doctor, or because of the decision of some committee, they have no longer a right to live because they are 'unproductive citizens'. The opinion is that since they can no longer make money, they are obsolete machines, comparable with some old cow that can no longer give milk or some horse that has gone lame. What is the lot of unproductive machines and cattle? They are destroyed. I have no intention of stretching this comparison further. The case here is not one of machines or cattle which exist to serve men and furnish them with plenty. They may be legitimately done away with when they can no longer fulfil their function. Here we are dealing with human beings, with our neighbours, brothers and sisters, the poor and invalids . . . unproductive -- perhaps! But have they, therefore, lost the right to live? Have you or I the right to exist only because we are 'productive'? If the principle is established that unproductive human beings may be killed, then God help all those invalids who, in order to produce wealth, have given their all and sacrificed their strength of body. If all unproductive people may thus be violently eliminated, then woe betide our brave soldiers who return home, wounded, maimed or sick.
It is estimated that around 200,000 of these "invalids" were put to death during WWII in Germany alone. For the entire sermon, go here. Another person we remember today is Jonathan Edwards (1703-1758), the Congregationalist minister who wrote the children's lulaby "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God," which maybe someday I'll get around to addressing. For now, I took the easy road with Clemens Augustinus Emmanuel Joseph Pius Anthonius Hubertus Marie Graf von Galen (his name is my name, too). Thanks for stopping by.

Month of Ramadan Tuesday, March 21, 2023 This week is the start of the Muslim observance of Ramadan (Arabic, "scorching heat"), which lasts from 3/23 to 4/20 this year -- or the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, which is Ramadan, from crescent moon to crescent moon. According to the Quran (2:185), it is a mandatory observance of daytime fasting, prayer, and study of the Quran. It is also one of the names for Allah, so not many Muslims refer to it simply as Ramadan. It commemorates the month in which Allah gave all scripture to man, including both Abraham and Muhammad. Muslims trace their lineage to Abraham through his son Ishmael, firstborn of his servant Hagar (Genesis 16:3-4), of whom the angel of the Lord told Hagar, "And he will be a wild man; his hand will be against every man, and every man's hand against him; and he shall dwell in the presence of all his brethren" (Genesis 16:12). According to Galatians 4:29-30, the descendants of Ishmael serve to persecute those born of the Spirit and will never share in the inheritance of Isaac (also Genesis 21:8-12). This is the simple reason Muslims don't get along well with Jews. Although Islam considers Jesus a prophet, Muslims also don't think much of Christians. To learn why, go here. Most Muslims do not approve of images of the prophet Muhammad in any way, shape or form. Pictured: Muhammad Ali (1942-2016), a member of the Nation of Islam (Black Muslims) who defeated infidels in 56 out of 61 boxing jihads.

LWoS 135, 142, 145, 146, 149, 152, 153 Monday, March 6, 2023 Today we might take a look at Chrodegang, Fridolin, Kyneburga, Kyneswide, Tibba, or Marcian of Tartona, all of whom were wonderful saints and martyrs in their own right. Today is also as good a day as any to jump back into The Lost Wisdom of Solomon, which is still available in paperback and Kindle. 135 The simplest answer is often the best. And that answer is usually, "No." Learn to use it liberally. Practice on your children and your children's children. Make it a habit and you will find your responsibilities and obligations dwindle to a minimum. 142 A parable involving insects: Now there dwelt in the same field both butterflies and moths. The butterflies had circumcised antennae, while the moths were uncircumcised. One day the butterfly said to the moth, "Come now and let us circumcise your antennae." To which the moth replied, "Not so. Stay your distance, for I am content in my unclean state." "But you shall never be as resplendent as I," replied the butterfly. So the crafty moth convinced the butterfly to enter into a treaty, and interbreed, so that their offspring should be indistinguishable one from another and so live in the same field in peace, much to the displeasure of the LORD. Such are the Canaanites, and the Philistines, and those devious Gibeonites. 145 Let your yes be yes and your no, no. Children and fools often demand a reason why. Tell them “just because” or “because I said so, that is why.” If that does not suffice, then the threat of bodily retribution is something both can plainly understand. 146 The Lord provided "manna" (Hebrew, "what is it?") as a mysterious food substance in the desert for the Israelites during their exodus from Egypt to the land he promised their forefathers. For a time, I dedicated my mind to experiment with reproducing this enigmatic sustenance and believe something very similar can be generated with the appropriate combination of lentils and flax seed oil. Baked just right in small wafers with a bit of cardamom on one side, they coalesce well in a bowl of milk. I call them "frosted flakes." It has also been determined that man cannot live on frosted flakes alone, but that it must be part of a balanced breakfast. 149 This I understand and can appreciate: Yard sales. The junk of one man is but the treasure of another. No permits, no taxes. People actually come to your property and pay you to take away that which you would otherwise throw away. If unfavorable weather, then a garage sale. This I do not understand, nor appreciate: Musicals. 152 Do not succumb to the latest fads, nor to trends of fashion caprice. Like the wind, they are here today and gone tomorrow. Customary prayer tassels aside, if the hem of your neighbor's seamless robe is died with Tyrian purple and embellished with stones of lapis lazuli, carnelian, beryl, chrysolite, jacinth, and turquoise, that means in no wise should you yourself become indebted for such adornment. A drab hem is a modest hem, and a modest hem is pleasing to the Lord. 153 My son, conflict is healthy, like a colorectal screening. It is unavoidable, like pestilence or a root canal. Verbal conflict is a skill, like the craft of torture for the purpose of obtaining valuable information or a confession. Physical conflict should be avoided, unless you are certain you will prevail, and someone is willing to arbitrate to ensure no jabs are taken below the belt. End all conflicts with a hug, making sure to end the hug with a pat.

Edict of Saint-Germain Wednesday, March 1, 2023 If you recall the Edict of Saint-Germain issued on January 17, 1562, which brought a brief period of respite to the persecution of French Calvinists known as Huguenots -- well, shortly thereafter on this day in 1562, sixty-three Huguenots were killed and around one-hundred were wounded by armed soldiers of Francis, Duke of Guise, in the town of Vassy, France, during a barn church service where about 500 were in attendance. I only bring this up because I have very little time today, nothing else to write about, and relatively little interest in French history. Today is also Self-injury Awareness Day (welcome, all you cutters) and Zero Discrimination Day (welcome, everyone). SIAD is to promote awareness for those who intentionally harm themselves due to depression, hopelessness and other negative feelings -- which generally excludes individuals who practice mortification of the flesh as a process of penance. If you know someone who practices the former, they need Jesus. If you know someone who practices the latter, tell them to do this behind closed doors. According to UNAIDS, non-discrimination is a human right. However, I beg to disagree. The only universal right people have is the right to die. Non-discrimination is an ideal that will only be achieved in small measure here and there where enforced by law. Remember the Huguenots?

Catholic: Knock, knock. Protestant: Who's there? Catholic: Gaston de la Brosse announcing the arrival of Francis de Lorraine II, Prince of Joinville, Duke of Guise, Duke of Aumale, and Grand Chamberlain and Lieutenant-General of France. Protestant: Gaston who? Catholic: Bang!

AD/BC: For Those About to Standardize Dates (We Salute You) Sunday, February 26, 2023 I am often asked by inquisitive children who have wandered from the protection of their guardian what AD and BC mean in regards to dates. I usually tell them it's none of my business and that they shouldn't talk to strangers. However, if one of those children is a family member, then I must oblige and concede that "AD" is an abbreviation for the Latin term Anno Domini, or "in the year of the Lord," while BC is an abbreviation for "Before Christ" or "Backwards Countdown" in plain English. I then have to explain what an abbreviation is, while also adding that AD could also mean "After Death" (or after the Death of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, even though it's not). At this point, the more astute child will ask why BC is English while AD is Latin, to which one might just make something up like: BC was actually UAC back in the day, which is an abbreviation for Ab Urbe Conditum -- Latin for "Founded by the City" because the Romans, who were the people in charge when our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ lived, determined that the beginning of civilized history started with the founding of Rome in 753 BC... or AUC, or whatever. AD actually begins some time around the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, which was determined by Christian clerics, most notably Dionysius Exiguus (c. AD 470-544), a Scythian monk and translator who worked out the days of Easter for the Gregorian and Julian solar calendars that were popular at the time. Also popular at the time was Latin. Prior to this, historical dating was a crapshoot based on regional happenings, genealogies, and the goings-on during the reign of the dominant rulers; or at least any surviving written accounts thereof (such as ancient Hebrew manuscripts, including but not limited to what we call the Old Testament, which supposedly gives an account of the genealogy of the people of Israel from the beginning of creation, covering a period roughly between 6,000 BC to 450 BC). Around the eighth century BC, a ruler of the Babylonian Empire named Nabonassar formulated a dating method based on the succession of kings, along with the preservation of these recordings, that persisted until the third century AD when an astronomer named Claudius Ptolemy adapted it to the Roman Empire. Come to think of it, Ptolemy identified today as that day in 747 BC when the beginning of recorded history began with Nabonassar. This early calendar and its cheap knock-offs were used primarily for calculating astronomical events and documenting the chronology of kings, but was eventually adopted by doctor's offices, greeting card companies, and used in conjunction with e-mail applications. Nowadays, it's not popular to mix faith-based religion with factual science or anything having to do with scholarly disciplines, so AD has become CE ("Common Era" or "Current Era"), while BC has become BCE ("Before Common Era" or "Before Current Era" or "Backwards Counting Era"), yet they are based on the same dates as AD/BC. After explaining this to a child who asks too many questions, it is then customary to recite a passage from the Old Testament to provide an example of the dating methods of ancient peoples, and what better source to recite from than Genesis chapter 5? This is essentially year zero to Noah, when history started all over again. Then follows a recital of the first two chapters of 1 Chronicles, outlining the genealogy of Noah to Abraham, then from Abraham to David because, undoubtedly, the questions will keep coming once they've started asking. So, in conclusion, when children ask questions, always answer with long passages from the Old Testament, preferably from memory because it makes it sound like you were there.

Medieval Cultural Appropriation Saturday, February 25, 2023 According to Wikipedia, today is February 25, which has been substantiated by a number of reference sources. On this day in 1336, according to Lithuanian history, somewhere in the neighborhood of 4,000-5,000 Lithuanians took their own lives at a fort named Pilenai rather than be captured and baptized by the Christian forces of the Teutonic Order. They also burned down the fort so that it could not be converted. Since this was a leap year, it was also the Feast of Saint Matthias, who was voted as Judas Iscariot's replacement. Now, I am not a historian, so I will not bore you with the details, but this event -- the battle of Pilenai, not the Feast of Saint Matthias -- was part of a century-long skirmish (yes, another "crusade") that lasted from 1283-1422, which consisted of hundreds of small battles and the deaths of thousands of peasants who failed to beat their plowshares into swords. Of course, this crusade was interrupted from time to time by other crusades, such as the Crusade against the Tatars (that is, the Golden Tatars, not the Red Tatars). Although the history of the Lithuanian Crusade is a bit muddied with all of the power struggles going on at the time in that part of the world, there is no denying that once the Teutonic Knights got involved there would be pagan bloodshed in order to further the glory of Christ. I admit that sitting here far removed from the event and its foreign culture affords me a certain measure of glib indifference. I also admit that the crusades were dreadfully atrocious. I also admit that I don't believe in reincarnation and having lived past lives, but this would explain why God has allowed the existence of so many people, other than there is a specific number of true believers who must accumulate in heaven before the Apocalypse is triggered. I don't know, nor do I want to know. Howsoever, I cannot help but wonder. Hmmmmm...

Polycarp Prints the Gutenberg Bible Thursday, February 23, 2023 Today I name-drop a Church Father, that of Polycarp (69-155 A.D.), whom many already know didn't actually print the Gutenberg Bible. He was a disciple of the Apostle John, a contemporary of Ignatius, and bishop of Smyrna on the Greek coast of Anatolia who was martyred on this day in the year 155. Most of what is known about him was recorded by his disciple, Irenaeus (c. 130-202), partly in a letter entitled The Martyrdom of Polycarp, in which he wrote that those in attendance at the Roman amphitheater in Smyrna of the spectacle of Polycarp's death shouted, "This is the teacher of Asia, the father of the Christians, and the overthrower of our gods, he who has been teaching many not to sacrifice, or to worship the gods." They then called for him to be fed to the lions, but were denied because that part of the show had passed, so they settled for burning him at the stake. As the story goes, the flames didn't touch him, so an executioner stabbed him in the chest with a dagger and his blood gushed out and extinguished the flames. Also on this day in 1455, the "Mazarin Bible" was printed by Johannes Gutenberg (c. 1393-1406). An edition of the Latin Vulgate based on the work of Jerome in the fourth century, it is considered the first book from a movable-type printing press. Skim through its pages here -- even if you don't know Latin, it's worth a gander. Although it contained the Old and New Testaments, it did not contain the Epistle of Polycarp to the Philippians. From the New Advent website, here are some excerpts from the

Epistle of Polycarp to the Philippians Chapter 2: Wherefore, girding up your loins, serve the Lord in fear and truth, as those who have forsaken the vain, empty talk and error of the multitude, and believed in Him who raised up our Lord Jesus Christ from the dead, and gave Him glory, and a throne at His right hand. To Him all things in heaven and on earth are subject. Him every spirit serves. He comes as the Judge of the living and the dead. His blood will God require of those who do not believe in Him. But He who raised Him up from the dead will raise us up also, if we do His will, and walk in His commandments, and love what He loved, keeping ourselves from all unrighteousness, covetousness, love of money, evil speaking, false witness; not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing, or blow for blow, or cursing for cursing, but being mindful of what the Lord said in His teaching: Judge not, that you be not judged; forgive, and it shall be forgiven unto you; be merciful, that you may obtain mercy; with what measure you measure, it shall be measured to you again; and once more, Blessed are the poor, and those that are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of God. Chapter 3: These things, brethren, I write to you concerning righteousness, not because I take anything upon myself, but because you have invited me to do so. For neither I, nor any other such one, can come up to the wisdom of the blessed and glorified Paul. He, when among you, accurately and steadfastly taught the word of truth in the presence of those who were then alive. And when absent from you, he wrote you a letter, which, if you carefully study, you will find to be the means of building you up in that faith which has been given you, and which, being followed by hope, and preceded by love towards God, and Christ, and our neighbour, "is the mother of us all" (Galatians 4:26). For if any one be inwardly possessed of these graces, he has fulfilled the command of righteousness, since he that has love is far from all sin. Chapter 4: "But the love of money is the root of all evils" (1 Timothy 6:10). Knowing, therefore, that "as we brought nothing into the world, so we can carry nothing out" (1 Timothy 6:7), let us arm ourselves with the armour of righteousness; and let us teach, first of all, ourselves to walk in the commandments of the Lord. Next, [teach] your wives [to walk] in the faith given to them, and in love and purity tenderly loving their own husbands in all truth, and loving all [others] equally in all chastity; and to train up their children in the knowledge and fear of God. Teach the widows to be discreet as respects the faith of the Lord, praying continually for all, being far from all slandering, evil-speaking, false-witnessing, love of money, and every kind of evil; knowing that they are the altar of God, that He clearly perceives all things, and that nothing is hid from Him, neither reasonings, nor reflections, nor any one of the secret things of the heart. Chapter 5: Knowing, then, that "God is not mocked" (Galatians 6:7), we ought to walk worthy of His commandment and glory. In like manner should the deacons be blameless before the face of His righteousness, as being the servants of God and Christ, and not of men. They must not be slanderers, double-tongued, or lovers of money, but temperate in all things, compassionate, industrious, walking according to the truth of the Lord, who was the servant of all. If we please Him in this present world, we shall receive also the future world, according as He has promised to us that He will raise us again from the dead, and that if we live worthily of Him, "we shall also reign together with Him" (2 Timothy 2:12), provided only we believe. In like manner, let the young men also be blameless in all things, being especially careful to preserve purity, and keeping themselves in, as with a bridle, from every kind of evil. For it is well that they should be cut off from the lusts that are in the world, since every lust wars against the spirit; "and neither fornicators, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, shall inherit the kingdom of God" (1 Corinthians 6:9-10), nor those who do things inconsistent and unbecoming. Wherefore, it is needful to abstain from all these things, being subject to the presbyters and deacons, as unto God and Christ. The virgins also must walk in a blameless and pure conscience. Chapter 6: And let the presbyters be compassionate and merciful to all, bringing back those that wander, visiting all the sick, and not neglecting the widow, the orphan, or the poor, but always "providing for that which is becoming in the sight of God and man" (Romans 12:17; 2 Corinthians 8:31); abstaining from all wrath, respect of persons, and unjust judgment; keeping far off from all covetousness, not quickly crediting [an evil report] against any one, not severe in judgment, as knowing that we are all under a debt of sin. If then we entreat the Lord to forgive us, we ought also ourselves to forgive; for we are before the eyes of our Lord and God, and "we must all appear at the judgment-seat of Christ, and must every one give an account of himself" (Romans 14:10-12; 2 Corinthians 5:10). Let us then serve Him in fear, and with all reverence, even as He Himself has commanded us, and as the apostles who preached the Gospel unto us, and the prophets who proclaimed beforehand the coming of the Lord [have alike taught us]. Let us be zealous in the pursuit of that which is good, keeping ourselves from causes of offense, from false brethren, and from those who in hypocrisy bear the name of the Lord, and draw away vain men into error. Chapter 7: "For whosoever does not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh, is antichrist" (1 John 4:3); and whosoever does not confess the testimony of the cross, is of the devil; and whosoever perverts the oracles of the Lord to his own lusts, and says that there is neither a resurrection nor a judgment, he is the first-born of Satan. Wherefore, forsaking the vanity of many, and their false doctrines, let us return to the word which has been handed down to us from the beginning; "watching unto prayer" (1 Peter 4:7), and persevering in fasting; beseeching in our supplications the all-seeing God "not to lead us into temptation" (Matthew 6:13; Matthew 26:41), as the Lord has said: "The spirit truly is willing, but the flesh is weak" (Matthew 26:41; Mark 14:38). Chapter 8: Let us then continually persevere in our hope, and the earnest of our righteousness, which is Jesus Christ, "who bore our sins in His own body on the tree" (1 Peter 2:24), "who did no sin, neither was guile found in His mouth" (1 Peter 2:22), but endured all things for us, that we might live in Him. Let us then be imitators of His patience; and if we suffer for His name's sake, let us glorify Him. For He has set us this example in Himself, and we have believed that such is the case. Chapter 10: Stand fast, therefore, in these things, and follow the example of the Lord, being firm and unchangeable in the faith, loving the brotherhood, and being attached to one another, joined together in the truth, exhibiting the meekness of the Lord in your intercourse with one another, and despising no one. When you can do good, defer it not, because "alms delivers from death" (Tobit 4:10, Tobit 12:9). Be all of you subject one to another having your conduct blameless among the Gentiles, that you may both receive praise for your good works, and the Lord may not be blasphemed through you. But woe to him by whom the name of the Lord is blasphemed! Teach, therefore, sobriety to all, and manifest it also in your own conduct. Chapter 12: For I trust that you are well versed in the Sacred Scriptures, and that nothing is hid from you; but to me this privilege is not yet granted. It is declared then in these Scriptures, "Be angry, and sin not," and, "Let not the sun go down upon your wrath" (Ephesians 4:26). Happy is he who remembers this, which I believe to be the case with you. But may the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, and Jesus Christ Himself, who is the Son of God, and our everlasting High Priest, build you up in faith and truth, and in all meekness, gentleness, patience, long-suffering, forbearance, and purity; and may He bestow on you a lot and portion among His saints, and on us with you, and on all that are under heaven, who shall believe in our Lord Jesus Christ, and in His Father, "who raised Him from the dead" (Galatians 1:1). Pray for all the saints. Pray also for kings, and potentates, and princes, and for those that persecute and hate you, and for the enemies of the cross, that your fruit may be manifest to all, and that you may be perfect in Him. Translated by Alexander Roberts and James Donaldson. From Ante-Nicene Fathers, Vol. 1. Edited by Alexander Roberts, James Donaldson, and A. Cleveland Coxe. (Buffalo, NY: Christian Literature Publishing Co., 1885.) Revised and edited for New Advent by Kevin Knight. Quotations in the text indicate parts which the author emphasized as coming from other writings, with those likely sources in parentheses. Again, this was not part of the Gutenberg Bible, nor did Polycarp invent the printing press, which originated in ninth-century China during the Tang Dynasty in the form of block printing. Although the Gutenberg Bible was the first mass-produced book, "The Diamond Sutra" of Buddhist wisdom was the first known printed book (c. 868 A.D.).

Flagillare, Vel Non Flagillare Tuesday, February 21, 2023 Today we remember Thomas, bishop of Finland, who died in 1248. Unfortunately, there is not much to remember him by other than he resigned after confessing to several grievous sins, including torturing a man to death. I also must confess that I have thought about torturing several people to death throughout the years, all of whom remain nameless drivers who have pissed me off on the roads. We also remember Peter Damian (c. 1007-1073), a hermit monk who introduced flagellation in 1035 to the Benedictine monks at the Venerable Hermitage of the Holy Cross in Italy, which became all the rage for self-mortification. I must also confess that I flagellate myself regularly -- not physically, but verbally. Peter Damian also wrote a letter to Pope Leo IX in the form of a book entitled Liber Gomorrhianus ("Book of Gomorrah"), in which he addressed various sins common among the bishops and priests of his day including, but not limited to: masturbation, homosexual anal copulation, and the sexual defilement of adolescent boys. (It is here that I confess absolutely nothing.) In regards to flagellation, or mortification of the flesh as a process of penance, generally a cattail whip composed of knotted cords (called a "discipline") is used by an individual upon themselves repeatedly, usually on the bare back or upper thighs. Try it sometime, it's quite sanctifying -- alone or in pairs, while reading scripture or saying prayers. However, a word of caution: refrain from flagellating the hindquarters, specifically the buttocks, as this tends to be more enjoyable than penitential for some. A brief Google search of flagellation images will quickly reveal this nuance and should help to dissuade you from crossing the blurry line between punishment and pleasure. Flagellation is not the only means of crucifying the flesh of its passions and desires. There is self-denial, an ascetic lifestyle, fasting, enduring hardships, poverty, wearing a hairshirt or cilice, covering yourself with sackcloth and ashes, renunciation of Netflix for purposes of austerity, crawling on your elbows and knees as a form of travel, abstaining from meat on Wednesdays, repressing useless words or careless glances, dressing in a loincloth made of razor blades, living with more than one cat, or whatever form of suffering is readily available. Just remember, mortification is not always convenient. Personally, I prefer a metal crucifix firmly attached to the end of a nylon cord while taking a cold shower -- maybe a bit extreme for most but highly recommended by Louis Marie de Montfort. You must also smile whilst in anguish, not because of anything sadistic or masochistic, nor of vanity, but because it is pure joy to suffer your own cross. It's also important to inflict mortification in moderation and to favor quality over quantity. Famous people who practiced flagellation include Raniero Fasani, Martin Luther, Konrad Schmid, Anthony of Padua, Pope John Paul II, and the Ku Klux Klan. Flagellation is not for everyone but it if for everyone who has seen Mel Gibson's The Passion of the Christ and considered it an accurate depiction of Jesus Christ's suffering.

Back in the day, the Church blamed the Black Death on everyone and everything, including black people. Pictured here, members of the Blessed Order of the KKK flagellate themselves in penance for their accusations against peoples of dark skin tone for spreading the plague, when it was more the fault of the Jews. They were perhaps a bit more humble in medieval times.

Presidents' Day Sale On Now Monday, February 20, 2023

George Washington (1732-1799) grew up as a baptized member of the Church of England and, after the American Revolution, became a member of its Americanized branch, the Episcopal Church. Even so, he was a Freemason and Enlightened thinker. Keeping his religious beliefs relatively private, he often referred to God as Providence.

Today is Presidents' Day in the U.S., when all the past U.S. presidents dog-piled on George Washington after Abraham Lincoln jumped on his back. Delaware does not observe Presidents' Day (which is why we often forget it's a state) and in a few other states it is combined with either Black Friday or Christmas Eve, effectively jipping its citizens out of those extra sale days. According to the Pew Research Center and the POTUS website, most of the U.S. presidents were Christians or considered themselves of the Christian faith, with exception of Thomas Jefferson and Abraham Lincoln. Jefferson was raised in the Church of England but departed from the belief as a religion and wrote his own edition of the Gospels, called The Life and Morals of Jesus of Nazareth (commonly known as the Jefferson Bible), which excluded the supposed miracles of Jesus along with his resurrection and claims of Godhead. Lincoln was raised a Baptist but never claimed to be a Christian, although he was God-fearing and versed in Biblical scripture. His successor, Andrew Johnson, had no denominational affiliation but claimed to be a Christian. Ulysses S. Grant was considered a Methodist, although he never claimed to be one. Chester Arthur may have secretly been an Episcopalian. William H. Taft was a Unitarian who claimed to not believe in the divinity of Jesus. Then there's Donald Trump... Anyway, although the Unites States was founded upon a moralistic foundation of the Christian faith and the Bible, many of its Founding Fathers and subsequent leaders weren't specifically Christian but Deists or, rather, theistic rationalists, in that they believed in a Supreme Deity and felt that the God of the Bible was most likely that Supreme Deity except that the religions based on the teachings of the Bible were severely amiss with superstition. A synopsis of every president's religious convictions can be found at PBS's American Experience. About three quarters were Protestant, with the majority being Episcopalian and Presbyterians a close second. A few of the most outwardly religious included John Adams (Congregationalist), James Madison (Anglican/Presbyterian), James Garfield (Disciples of Christ), Benjamin Harrison (Presbyterian), William McKinley (Methodist), Theodore Roosevelt (Dutch Reformed Church), Woodrow Wilson (Presbyterian), Warren G. Harding (Baptist), Dwight D. Eisenhower (Presbyterian), Richard Nixon (Quaker), Jimmy Carter (Baptist), and George W. Bush (Methodist). Whether or not you consider these men to have been good Christians is your own opinion and, ultimately, the Supreme Being's judgment.

No Shortage of Martyrs Friday, February 17, 2023
On this day in 304 A.D. or thereabouts, near Venice, Italy, 89 Christians were martyred under the Roman rule of Emperor Diocletian, including Donatus, Romulus and Secundian. The Great Persecution under Diocletian lasted from 303 to 313, effectively ending after Constantine came to power.1 During this period of religious intolerance, thousands of Christians were put to death.2 However, many still evaded persecution because not all emperors and regional judges enforced the imperial edict, although some did so vehemently and with severe prejudice. It is commonly believed that most Christians either acceded and sacrificed to the Roman gods, bribed their way out of it, or found some kind of loophole.3 Apart from refusing to honor Caesar as a god along with all of the other pagan deities, Christians were just plain weird and obstinate. After a couple centuries of tolerating the growth of Christianity to about 10% of the population, the average Roman citizen grew tired and weary of them. As Jesus predicted, the conversion to Christianity tore many families apart (Matthew 10:21-22, Mark 13:12-13, Luke 12:51-52). And, speaking of tearing families apart, these were the times when Christians were fed to the lions in the amphitheaters, although not to the extent that we might be led to believe. For one, Christians were being fed to the lions since the first century. Secondly, the intent was not to be eaten but torn apart and mutilated. Thirdly, this form of capital punishment was generally reserved for other crimes, such as military desertion, murder, counterfeiting, and runaway slaves. Of course, there were several other ways of torturing and killing Christians, including crucifixion, burning alive, beheading, hanging, and working and starving them to death after gouging out their eyes and chopping off their hands and/or feet. As much as the Romans enjoyed these gruesome events, they still considered them a bit extreme and morally questionable.4 Since nothing is known of their manner of death after searching the Internet for ten minutes, we'll assume the 89 martyrs were burned at the stake while being eviscerated by large feline predators and enraged hippopotomi. Ironically, the instigator and most adamant supporter of the persecution of Christians from the start was Emperor Galerius, who was the first to issue a decree of toleration in 311 A.D. because he saw the whole effort as an ultimate failure. Estimates vary widely from approximately 3,000 to 23,000, while only about 850 are known by name. According to the World Wide Web. Something I remember reading but can't remember where.

VD, BFD Tuesday, February 14, 2023

Saint Valentine -- pick whichever one you want -- might not agree with the way his feast day is celebrated in this day and age. Most women probably wouldn't, either. Despite what they want, here's what most women get for Valentine's Day: A teddy bear wearing an NFL jersey and football helmet Russel Stover assorted chocolates in a heart box Whitman's Sampler regular yellow rectangle box Bag of M&Ms Under-sized lingerie and an over-sized greeting card $25 gift card for coffee, a book, or hobby materials Dinner and a movie at home... maybe or maybe not accompanied with a box of wine Sex... or at least a self-induced orgasm A gold-plated heart pendant necklace with an engraving that reads "Mom" A cold or the flu Matching sweat pant/sweat shirt combo from Walmart or Cabelas Something with Betty Boop on it (balloon, mug, balloon/mug gift combo, sweat suit) Coupon for a back rub (basically an IOU) A live animal that requires a considerable amount of care and attention and will likely keep her awake at all hours of the night and put her at odds with her immediate neighbors for the next few months Flowers without a vase that require a vase that requires too much time and energy to locate That good, old-fashioned classic: an appliance An empty frame from Hobby Lobby or the dollar store A plaque or novelty trophy that reads "World's Best Lover" or "#1 Gal" A novelty item, like a conservative sex toy A romantic getaway for two at Applebee's A romantic getaway for the entire family at the Golden Corral Buffet A rotating, multi-colored fiber optic fountain light Black Hills Gold jewelry Something practical like jumper cables, an electric toothbrush, gym membership, cell phone case, or a pre-paid funeral plan A personalized coffee mug A star named after her for thirty-five bucks Re-gifted Yankee candle and/or lotion variety pack A natural object shaped like a heart, possibly a vegetable or a rock Something homemade but lacking sentimentality which could've been purchased for ten dollars or less Nothing, except maybe for a brief explanation about how Valentine's Day is not really a holiday but just another bullshit occasion for commercialism Disappointment -- the gift that keeps on giving

Remembering Absalom Jones Monday, February 13, 2023 Today we remember Absalom Jones (1746-1818), an American slave who bought the freedom of his wife before obtaining his own freedom and went on to become one of the first black ministers in the U.S. along with Richard Allen (1760-1831). The two were ordained and licensed to preach by the Methodist Episcopal Church after Pennsylvania abolished slavery, however, they experienced racial segregation and discrimination by white members. So, they founded the Free African Society in Philadelphia for ministering and providing aid to former slaves. In 1794, Jones opened the first black church of the city, the African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas, and became the first African-American priest in the Episcopal Church, while Allen started the African Methodist Episcopal Church and became the first African-American Methodist minister. Following is an excerpt from The Causes and Motives for Establishing St. Thomas's African Church of Philadelphia by its collective founders and trustees:

Whereas, through the various attempts we have made to promote our design, God has marked out made our ways with blessings. And we are now encouraged through the grace and divine assistance of the friends and God opening the hearts of our white friends and brethren, to encourage us to arise out of the dust and shake ourselves, and throw off that servile fear, that the habit of oppression and bondage trained us up in. And in meekness and fear we would desire to walk in the liberty wherewith Christ has made us free. That following peace with all men, we may have our fruit unto holiness, and in the end, everlasting life. And in order the more fully to accomplish the good purposes of God's will, and organize ourselves for the purpose of promoting the health the people all, but more particularly our relatives, of color. We, after many consultations, and some years deliberation thereon, have gone forward to erect a house for the glory of God, and our mutual advantage to meet in for clarification and social religious worship. And more particularly to keep an open door for those of our race, who may be into assemble with us, but would not attend divine worship in Other places; and Whereas, faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God, we are the more encourage thereto, believing God will bless our works and labors of love...

For the entire text of the publication, go here. It is also available from various public libraries via the ancient daguerreotype process of microfiche. The church itself has survived and made its way online here. If you visited this blog expecting to read about Saint Dyfnog of sixth-century Wales because he has a peculiar name and thought I'd poke fun at him, then shame on you.

Tales of Unorthodox Romance Sunday, February 12, 2023

Today is Darwin Day to commemorate the birthday of Charles Darwin (1809-1882). If you don't know who this is, then your public school education has failed in more ways than one. I can think of no better way to celebrate Darwin than by sharing a story from my upcoming book, Tales of Unorthodox Romance, coming this year to an airport bookstand near you and sure to be a New York Tim's Best Seller.

Charles Darwin sat on his theory of natural selection for nearly two decades as he wrestled with faith in God. He married his first cousin, Emma Wedgwood, in 1839 after returning from his infamous voyage aboard the HMS Beagle to the Galapagos Islands where much of his evolutionary ideas would formulate. He studied his ten children as they grew, seven of whom were fittest to survive, and wrote at length on their similarities to barnacles. Although he struggled with poor health due to stress, it was likely the prayers of his Unitarian wife which kept him going on his research into biological transmutation. However, in the end, as they say, the rest is history. Darwin eventually determined that life on this planet was perfectly capable without God, published a number of papers (On the Origin of Species in 1859, The Variation of Animals and Plants Under Domestication in 1868, The Descent of Man in 1871, et al), left Emma, and re-married an orangutan from the London Zoo named Lady Jane, whom he affectionately referred to as Jenny. Although Jenny died at a relatively young age for apes, their relationship gave Charles enough time to realize that there wasn't much of a difference between human wives and primate wives, resulting in his 1872 book, The Expression of the Emotions in Man and Animals. From then until his death in 1882, Darwin grew a beard with which he fell in love for the third time. Named Lucy, she was the first female elected to the Royal Society of London for Improving Natural Knowledge, better known as the Royal Society. Although Darwin's body decayed in the grave, Lucy would go on existing for years in darkness and solitude, where she would develop her own theories on the origin of species. Eventually, she came to the conclusion that life was impossible without the supporting foundation and continual guidance of a Supreme Designer. Unfortunately, her papers were never discovered and therefore never published.

The Antinomian Controversy Sunday, February 5, 2023
On this day in 1597, twenty-six Kirishitans were martyred in Nagasaki, Japan (refer to previous blog). Today also marks the commemoration of Anne Hutchinson (1591-1643), a Puritan woman and parishioner of Cotton Mather who led home group studies of scripture and sermons -- called a conventicle -- both in England and New England after following Cotton Mather to Boston, Massachusetts. She was controversial for being an outspoken woman and for challenging Puritan ministers on the subject of grace over works, which culminated in the Antinomian Controversy (1636-1638), or Free Grace Controversy, and the banishment of Hutchinson's family and several like-minded ministers and laypeople from the Massachusetts Bay Colony. Cotton Mather did not help in her defense, instead accusing her privately-held conventicles of being a dangerous potential for an orgy of sin. Eventually settling in what is now the Bronx, New York, she and her surviving children were killed by Indians, which was seen by members of the Massachusetts Bay Colony as God's vengeance. Considered a pain in the ass by Boston governor John Winthrop and many of its Puritan ministers, she is now considered by many to have been a feminist pioneer and an influence upon the separation of church and state.

Blessed Kirishitan Samurai Saturday, February 4, 2023 This is the Year of the Rabbit in the Chinese calendar, who introduced their custom of Setsubun to the Japanese in the eighth century, which is a way of ushering in Spring by tossing fortune beans out the front door while commanding demons of misfortune to go away, which is a segue to today's Christian hero, Justo Takayama Ukon (born Hikogoro Shigetomo circa 1552), who was martyred of natural causes on this day in 1615. Raised in Takayama village in Osaka prefecture as a samurai who was to become a feudal lord (daimyo) during a period of constant unrest and civil wars, he was baptized at age twelve, given the Christian name Justo Takayama Ukon, and committed his life as a Christian (Kirishitan) when he came of age after a ritualistic duel in which his opponent was killed. During his life as a daimyo, samurai and general, he preached the Gospel and introduced many Japanese to the faith. In 1614, he was expelled from Japan to the Philippines by the ruling elite, who decided that Christianity didn't have quite the appeal and effect they had originally hoped when they allowed it in, and he died the following year from illness. Not long prior, in 1597, twenty-six Catholics were martyred in nearby Nagasaki in a public parade of torture, mutilation, crucifixion, and further torture while hanging from crosses. In 1632, another fifty-five were martyred in Nagasaki and any remaining Kirishitans who didn't leave were driven underground. For more about Justo Takayama Ukon, visit his official fansite.

Mother Mary Full of Impurities Thursday, February 2, 2023 Today is Candlemas, or the Feast of the Presentation of Baby Jesus, or the Feast of the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary, celebrating the presentation of the baby Jesus and his mother at the Temple in Jerusalem forty days after his birth, following the purification period of Mary after being deemed ceremonially unclean. Although some have noted a similarity of date and purpose with the pagan celebration of Lupercalia, it's rather unlikely that the two have anything in common or were ever combined, although some Christians were known to celebrate Lupercalia. However, you can rest assured that pancakes will be eaten in Belgium, crêpes will be consumed in France, and tamales will dance in the streets of Latin American countries. Groundhog Day comes from the German observance of Candlemas whereby if a bratwurst being eaten by a hedgehog casts a shadow then there will be a second winter and a delay in global warming. The term Candlemas comes from any and all churches that like to burn candles which, of course, represents the light of Jesus. When the time came for the purification rites required by the Law of Moses, Joseph and Mary took him to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord (as it is written in the Law of the Lord, "Every firstborn male is to be consecrated to the Lord" [Exodus 13:1-16]), and to offer a sacrifice in keeping with what is said in the Law of the Lord: "a pair of doves or two young pigeons." [Leviticus 12] Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord's Messiah. Moved by the Spirit, he went into the temple courts. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what the custom of the Law required, Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying: "Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel." The child's father and mother marveled at what was said about him. Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: "This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too." There was also a prophet, Anna, the daughter of Penuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was very old; she had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, and then was a widow until she was eighty-four. She never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying. Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem. When Joseph and Mary had done everything required by the Law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee to their own town of Nazareth. And the child grew and became strong; he was filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was on him. (Luke 2:22-40, NIV)

Sulpitius I, Sulpitius the Pious, Sulpicius Severus, or Severus Snape? You be the judge.

Sulpitius, Not Sulpicius Sunday, January 29, 2023 Today is a very special day, if just for Sulpitius Severus (Bishop of Bourges in the sixth century) -- not to be confused with Sulpicius Severus of Aquitaine (writer and priest in the fourth to fifth century) -- and also because of Gildas the Wise (c. 450-500 A.D.), a British monk who wrote De Excidio et Conquestu Britanniae (On the Ruin and Conquest of Britain), available here. Much is known of Gildas, however, not much of it is reliable, as it is with the rest of history, like Sabinian of Troyes, a third century convert to Christianity who was martyred on this day in 275 under Emperor Aurelian (not to be confused with Marcus Aurelius). Today's blog was sponsored by Contes de Romance Peu Orthodoxe, an unorthodox series of romances due out sometime this year. Here is just one story to whet your appetite... Gently, he caressed her face with his one remaining toe. He recently lost both arms and a leg in the freak carousel accident that claimed eight lives. As tears streamed down her face and she sobbed uncontrollably, he demanded she move on, live a normal life, and start over with a new husband while he rotted away his few remaining years in a nursing home wiping himself with one toe. She kissed him one last time and then she said goodbye forever, never expecting to see him five years later as a circus sideshow performer wiping patron's butt cracks for a dollar. It was the most pitiful demise she had ever witnessed, but what she failed to realize was that his lifelong dreams of becoming a live entertainer had been fulfilled. The outcome was best for all. On her way home, she turned on the car radio and listened to the song "Alphie," followed by "Message for Michael," a double shot of Dionne Warwick. This made her think of him and his one toe, which made her sad... a Righteous Brothers or Roy Orbison kind of sad, but not Burt Bacharach and Hal David sad.

Feast of the Common Doctor Saturday, January 28, 2023

Today is Data Privacy Day but I will share this with you anyway -- today is also a day to remember one of the Catholic Church's finest: Thomas of Aquino (1225-1274), or Thomas Aquinas, a medieval friar of the Dominican Order who was counted as a Doctor of the Church, or one who contributed considerably to theology and doctrine. Thomas Aquinas wrote in the neighborhood of fifty volumes of Aristotelian philosophy, known collectively as Summa Theologica (Summation of Theology), which can be found online here or for a dollar on Amazon. It was never quite finished because he considered his writings as nothing but straw. His own style of philosophy and theology have come to be known as Thomism, or Thomistic philosophy. A fairly comprehensive collection of his work may be found online here and links to his texts may be accessed from here. Nicknamed the "dumb ox" by his classmates due to his rotund physique and quiet demeanor, he would come to be known as the "Common Doctor" by the Catholic Church for his ubiquitous contribution to theology and as the "Angelic Doctor" for his voluminous expositions on the existence and nature of angels. Fortunately for theological dummies, Thomas Aquinas wrote a condensed version of his Summa Theologica called A Shorter Summa, which you can check out for free from the Internet Archive. And, wouldn't you know it, here's a Thomistic sampling:

Article 1. Whether, besides philosophy, any further doctrine is required? Objection 1. It seems that, besides philosophical science, we have no need of any further knowledge. For man should not seek to know what is above reason: "Seek not the things that are too high for thee" (Sirach 3:22). But whatever is not above reason is fully treated of in philosophical science. Therefore any other knowledge besides philosophical science is superfluous. Objection 2. Further, knowledge can be concerned only with being, for nothing can be known, save what is true; and all that is, is true. But everything that is, is treated of in philosophical science—even God Himself; so that there is a part of philosophy called theology, or the divine science, as Aristotle has proved (Metaph. vi). Therefore, besides philosophical science, there is no need of any further knowledge. On the contrary, It is written (2 Timothy 3:16): "All Scripture, inspired of God is profitable to teach, to reprove, to correct, to instruct in justice." Now Scripture, inspired of God, is no part of philosophical science, which has been built up by human reason. Therefore it is useful that besides philosophical science, there should be other knowledge, i.e. inspired of God. I answer that, It was necessary for man's salvation that there should be a knowledge revealed by God besides philosophical science built up by human reason. Firstly, indeed, because man is directed to God, as to an end that surpasses the grasp of his reason: "The eye hath not seen, O God, besides Thee, what things Thou hast prepared for them that wait for Thee" (Isaiah 64:4). But the end must first be known by men who are to direct their thoughts and actions to the end. Hence it was necessary for the salvation of man that certain truths which exceed human reason should be made known to him by divine revelation. Even as regards those truths about God which human reason could have discovered, it was necessary that man should be taught by a divine revelation; because the truth about God such as reason could discover, would only be known by a few, and that after a long time, and with the admixture of many errors. Whereas man's whole salvation, which is in God, depends upon the knowledge of this truth. Therefore, in order that the salvation of men might be brought about more fitly and more surely, it was necessary that they should be taught divine truths by divine revelation. It was therefore necessary that besides philosophical science built up by reason, there should be a sacred science learned through revelation. Reply to Objection 1. Although those things which are beyond man's knowledge may not be sought for by man through his reason, nevertheless, once they are revealed by God, they must be accepted by faith. Hence the sacred text continues, "For many things are shown to thee above the understanding of man" (Sirach 3:25). And in this, the sacred science consists. Reply to Objection 2. Sciences are differentiated according to the various means through which knowledge is obtained. For the astronomer and the physicist both may prove the same conclusion: that the earth, for instance, is round: the astronomer by means of mathematics (i.e. abstracting from matter), but the physicist by means of matter itself. Hence there is no reason why those things which may be learned from philosophical science, so far as they can be known by natural reason, may not also be taught us by another science so far as they fall within revelation. Hence theology included in sacred doctrine differs in kind from that theology which is part of philosophy. Article 2. Whether sacred doctrine is a science? Objection 1. It seems that sacred doctrine is not a science. For every science proceeds from self-evident principles. But sacred doctrine proceeds from articles of faith which are not self-evident, since their truth is not admitted by all: "For all men have not faith" (2 Thessalonians 3:2). Therefore sacred doctrine is not a science. Objection 2. Further, no science deals with individual facts. But this sacred science treats of individual facts, such as the deeds of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob and such like. Therefore sacred doctrine is not a science. On the contrary, Augustine says (De Trin. xiv, 1) "to this science alone belongs that whereby saving faith is begotten, nourished, protected and strengthened." But this can be said of no science except sacred doctrine. Therefore sacred doctrine is a science. I answer that, Sacred doctrine is a science. We must bear in mind that there are two kinds of sciences. There are some which proceed from a principle known by the natural light of intelligence, such as arithmetic and geometry and the like. There are some which proceed from principles known by the light of a higher science: thus the science of perspective proceeds from principles established by geometry, and music from principles established by arithmetic. So it is that sacred doctrine is a science because it proceeds from principles established by the light of a higher science, namely, the science of God and the blessed. Hence, just as the musician accepts on authority the principles taught him by the mathematician, so sacred science is established on principles revealed by God. Reply to Objection 1. The principles of any science are either in themselves self-evident, or reducible to the conclusions of a higher science; and such, as we have said, are the principles of sacred doctrine. Reply to Objection 2. Individual facts are treated of in sacred doctrine, not because it is concerned with them principally, but they are introduced rather both as examples to be followed in our lives (as in moral sciences) and in order to establish the authority of those men through whom the divine revelation, on which this sacred scripture or doctrine is based, has come down to us. Article 5. Whether sacred doctrine is nobler than other sciences? Objection 1. It seems that sacred doctrine is not nobler than other sciences; for the nobility of a science depends on the certitude it establishes. But other sciences, the principles of which cannot be doubted, seem to be more certain than sacred doctrine; for its principles -- namely, articles of faith -- can be doubted. Therefore other sciences seem to be nobler. Objection 2. Further, it is the sign of a lower science to depend upon a higher; as music depends on arithmetic. But sacred doctrine does in a sense depend upon philosophical sciences; for Jerome observes, in his Epistle to Magnus, that "the ancient doctors so enriched their books with the ideas and phrases of the philosophers, that thou knowest not what more to admire in them, their profane erudition or their scriptural learning." Therefore sacred doctrine is inferior to other sciences. On the contrary, Other sciences are called the handmaidens of this one: "Wisdom sent her maids to invite to the tower" (Proverbs 9:3). I answer that, Since this science is partly speculative and partly practical, it transcends all others speculative and practical. Now one speculative science is said to be nobler than another, either by reason of its greater certitude, or by reason of the higher worth of its subject-matter. In both these respects this science surpasses other speculative sciences; in point of greater certitude, because other sciences derive their certitude from the natural light of human reason, which can err; whereas this derives its certitude from the light of divine knowledge, which cannot be misled: in point of the higher worth of its subject-matter because this science treats chiefly of those things which by their sublimity transcend human reason; while other sciences consider only those things which are within reason's grasp. Of the practical sciences, that one is nobler which is ordained to a further purpose, as political science is nobler than military science; for the good of the army is directed to the good of the State. But the purpose of this science, in so far as it is practical, is eternal bliss; to which as to an ultimate end the purposes of every practical science are directed. Hence it is clear that from every standpoint, it is nobler than other sciences. Reply to Objection 1. It may well happen that what is in itself the more certain may seem to us the less certain on account of the weakness of our intelligence, "which is dazzled by the clearest objects of nature; as the owl is dazzled by the light of the sun" (Metaph. ii, lect. i). Hence the fact that some happen to doubt about articles of faith is not due to the uncertain nature of the truths, but to the weakness of human intelligence; yet the slenderest knowledge that may be obtained of the highest things is more desirable than the most certain knowledge obtained of lesser things, as is said in de Animalibus xi. Reply to Objection 2. This science can in a sense depend upon the philosophical sciences, not as though it stood in need of them, but only in order to make its teaching clearer. For it accepts its principles not from other sciences, but immediately from God, by revelation. Therefore it does not depend upon other sciences as upon the higher, but makes use of them as of the lesser, and as handmaidens: even so the master sciences make use of the sciences that supply their materials, as political of military science. That it thus uses them is not due to its own defect or insufficiency, but to the defect of our intelligence, which is more easily led by what is known through natural reason (from which proceed the other sciences) to that which is above reason, such as are the teachings of this science.

Anyhow, you get the gist. If you crave more, this came from here and there's more where that came from.

Sermon by the Camp Fire, Part VIII Thursday, January 26, 2023

Today's reading is from chapter twenty of The Gospel of Martha, where the Christ has gathered his apostles around a camp fire and is teaching them mysterious lessons that are difficult to comprehend. I cannot say whether Pope Benedict XVI had anything to do with the writing of this book because I have been asked by the Vatican not to mention anyone Catholic and popish by name, so I never mentioned Pope Benedict XVI as having anything to do with this book, whether he did or not.

Octave of Christian Unity Wednesday, January 25, 2023 And thus concludes the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity in the Northern Hemisphere, which began on the 18th with the Feast of Saint Peter's Chair and concludes this eighth day ("octave") with the Feast of Saint Paul's Bath Robe -- brought to you by the World Council of Churches, which reminds us all that Jesus commanded us to pray at least once a year for ecumenism, or worldwide church unity. Whether you are Evangelical, Pentecostal, Protestant, Catholic or Orthodox, we can all agree on one thing: Jesus Christ. But what about Mormons, Jehovah's Witnesses and Unitarian Universalists, don't they believe in Jesus, too? No, they don't. If they did, they'd be called Christians. Some of the basic tenets of the classic Christian faith include belief in the death and resurrection of Jesus as God's only begotten for the remission of sin, baptism, the Trinity, infallibility of the Old and New Testaments, and the Second Coming. Criticize the Bible all you want but if you believe in the Jesus of the Bible, then congratulations. If you don't, then good luck. If you want to but find yourself in disagreement with his teachings and who his immediate disciples said he was and what he did, then find another religion or make one up that does not include Jesus of Nazareth. Beware of anyone who takes Christianity, fucks it all up, then tries to sell it as new and improved (Matthew 7:15). Today's blog was underwritten by Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, entertaining people with animal cruelty from 1884-2017, and by Compaq Computer Corp, retired from making beige computers since 2013. If you are interested in supporting this blog financially, please give alms to some poor wretch out there on the streets who needs it more than I do. That way, we all benefit. And to those who don't understand the difference between charity and socialism, here's the lowdown: Charity is freely giving of one's own resources to those who are less fortunate, while socialism is government subsidy through the redistribution of taxes to those who are less industrious. (Pictured above: An ancient sand globe depicting Jesus warning his followers about mainline Christianity.)

The Pratulin Dozen Tuesday, January 24, 2023 What happens when a Catholic refuses to convert to the Russian Orthodox Church? On this day in 1874, 13 Greek Catholics found out the hard way when they were fired upon by the Imperial Russian Army in Pratulin, Poland, for protesting the forced conversion of their church. 11 died that day and 2 died a couple days later (a baker's dozen). The protesters were all gunned down while kneeling peacefully and singing hymns. Here's who they were: Wincenty Lewoniuk (25), married and pious; Daniel Karmasz (48), married, held the cross in his hand; Lukasz Bojko (22), pious and respected, he rang the church bell; Konstanty Bojko (49), married, farmer, regarded as a righteous man; Konstanty Lukaszuk (45), married with seven children, respected; Bartlomiej Osypiuk (30) married with two children, pious and honest, before death he prayed for the persecutors; Anicet Hryciuk (19), he said "perhaps I will be worthy to be killed for the faith"; Filip Geryluk (44), married, a good father, he encouraged the others to stay by the church; Ignacy Franczuk (50), married with seven children, he was prepared not to come back home; Jan Andrzejuk (26), married with two children, a chanter in the parish church; Maksym Hawryluk (34), married; Onufry Wasyluk (21), married, known as a good Catholic; Michal Wawryszuk (21), a farmer. Read more, but not much more, here.

To Infinity and Beyond Sunday, January 22, 2023 Call me old-fashioned because I am now officially old-fashioned. I realized this while watching the Disney/Pixar movie Lightyear for the first time last night. Of course, I'm referring to the scene where the two mature animated female characters in a loving relationship kissed on the lips, then a little later one was pregnant. I immediately thought about having to explain that to my grandchildren. There's enough "buzz" online about this movie, however, I am going to share what The Guardian had to say about this: "Unless you are a raging bigot, there is clearly nothing inappropriate about kids being exposed to the fact that gay people exist. The fact that it is 2022 and this still needs to be said demonstrates that our society is in a state of moral collapse." (Arwa Mahdawi) For starters, I am behind the times for getting around to watching this movie until now. I also have to say that I was also a little taken aback at the reverse sandwich scene -- meat on the outside and bread in the middle -- or even that advanced civilizations with inter-gender relationships eat meat. Secondly, I acknowledge that I am a bigot but, as a born-again Christian, there is no way around it. I believe in the God of the Bible, who is the biggest bigot in the universe. Arwa Mahdawi is right, our society is in a state of moral collapse, which is pure irony coming from such a socially liberal source. With that said, I believe that as a democratic society, citizens of the U.S. should be allowed to engage in gay civil unions that are protected by the government. However, marriage in the eyes of God is another thing altogether. No Christian organization may rightfully marry two people of the same sex. I'll say it again: People of the same sex who proclaim to believe in the God of the Bible and "marry" one another are mistaken. I'll say it again: I am a bigot because I have read the Bible and there is no support for gay union of any kind therein. As a matter of fact, it's even discouraged. If homosexual individuals who love each other want to enter into marriage, let them do so outside the doors of the church, synagogue or mosque. Let them find a "god" who is accepting of their lifestyle. Let them inquire of Pixar how imaginary animated characters get the job done. Christians must not only raise their children in a society where homosexuality is accepted and protected, they must try and lead their children down the straight and narrow path of bigotry. No doubt, many will fall along the way or go astray and there's no fighting it without being labeled an intolerant, homophobic bigot. That line has been clearly drawn. Call me old-fashioned because I believe in the God of the Bible -- a homophobic deity portrayed in an antiquated textual relic of bygone times. It doesn't matter if right is wrong and wrong is right because there is no wrong or right. Therefore, Jesus should be coming back soon. I am now going to step down from my soap box and take a nap.

More Protestant Shenanigans Saturday, January 21, 2023 Today we remember Fructuosus of Tarragona (d. 259 AD) and Meinrad of Einsiedeln (d. 861 AD), both venerated saints of the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Churches. Let us also remember those miscreants, the Anabaptists of the sixteenth century, which became the Swiss Hutterites, Dutch Mennonites, and Alsatian Amish. On this day in 1525, a group of misfit believers in Zürich -- Conrad Grebel (Zwingli minister), Felix Manz (Zwingli follower), and George Blaurock (Catholic priest) -- got together and baptized one another even though they had already been baptized as infants, which was highly frowned upon. Two years later, they drew up the Schleitheim Confession of Faith. One of the primary focal points of the Anabaptists was baptism of those who were able and capable of confessing their faith, which meant they were opposed to infant baptism. The name Anabaptist was used by Catholics, Lutherans, Calvinists and Anglicans alike, which means "one who baptizes again," because of their practice of baptizing believers who were already baptized as infants. It wasn't a name they particularly liked because the New Testament taught to repent and be baptized (Acts 2:38), which they interpreted to mean that babies could not repent and therefore could not be baptized and thus their baptism was meaningless. They preferred to be called something along the lines of the Swiss Brethren, but that didn't really catch on. Even so, the Anabaptists were one of the primary factions to come out of the Protestant Reformation and the only one to promote a complete separation of church and state. From the Schleitheim Confession of Faith, here is a slightly condensed version of the Anabaptist's Seven Articles of Faith:

Concerning Baptism Baptism shall be given to all those who have been taught repentance and the amendment of life and believe truly that their sins are taken away through Christ, and to all those who desire to walk in the resurrection of Jesus Christ and be buried with Him in death, so that they might rise with Him; to all those who with such an understanding themselves desire and request it from us; hereby is excluded all infant baptism, the greatest and first abomination of the pope. For this you have the reasons and the testimony of the writings and the practice of the apostles. Concerning the Ban The ban shall be employed with all those who have given themselves over to the Lord, to walk after in His commandments; those who have been baptized into the one body of Christ, and let themselves be called brothers or sisters, and still somehow slip and fall into error and sin, being inadvertently overtaken. The same be warned twice privately and the third time be publicly admonished before the entire congregation according to the command of Christ (Matthew 18). But this shall be done according to the ordering of the Spirit of God before the breaking of bread so that we may all in one spirit and in one love break and eat from one bread and drink from one cup. Breaking of Bread All those who desire to break the one bread in remembrance of the broken body of Christ and all those who wish to drink of one drink in remembrance of the shed blood of Christ, they must beforehand be united in the one body of Christ, that is the congregation of God, whose head is Christ, and that by baptism. For as Paul indicates, we cannot be partakers at the same time of the table of the Lord and the table of devils. Nor can we at the same time partake and drink of the cup of the Lord and the cup of devils. That is: all those who have fellowship with the dead works of darkness have no part in the light. Thus all those who follow the devil and the world, have no part with those who have been called out of the world unto God. All those who lie in evil have no part in the good. So it shall and must be, that whoever does not share the calling of the one God to one faith, to one baptism, to one spirit, to one body together with all the children of God, may not be made one loaf together with them, as must be true if one wishes truly to break bread according to the command of Christ. Concerning the Separation We have been united concerning the separation that shall take place from the evil and the wickedness which the devil has planted in the world, simply in this; that we have no fellowship with them, and do not run with them in the confusion of their abominations. So it is; since all who have not entered into the obedience of faith and have not united themselves with God so that they will to do His will, are a great abomination before God, therefore nothing else can or really will grow or spring forth from them than abominable things. Now there is nothing else in the world and all creation than good or evil, believing and unbelieving, darkness and light, the world and those who are out of the world, God's temple and idols. Christ and Belial, and none will have part with the other. To us, then, the commandment of the Lord is also obvious, whereby He orders us to be and to become separated from the evil one, and thus He will be our God and we shall be His sons and daughters. Further, He admonishes us therefore to go out from Babylon and from the earthly Egypt, that we may not be partakers in their torment and suffering, which the Lord will bring upon them. From all this we should learn that everything which has not been united with our God in Christ is nothing but an abomination which we should shun. By this are meant all popish and repopish works and idolatry, gatherings, church attendance, winehouses, guarantees and commitments of unbelief, and other things of the kind, which the world regards highly, and yet which are carnal or flatly counter to the command of God, after the pattern of all the iniquity which is in the world. From all this we shall be separated and have no part with such, for they are nothing but abominations, which cause us to be hated before our Christ Jesus, who has freed us from the servitude of the flesh and fitted us for the service of God and the Spirit whom He has given us. Thereby shall also fall away from us the diabolical weapons of violence -- such as sword, armor, and the like, and all of their use to protect friends or against enemies -- by virtue of the word of Christ: "you shall not resist evil." Shepherds in the Church of God We have been united as follows concerning shepherds in the church of God. The shepherd in the church shall be a person according to the rule of Paul, fully and completely, who has a good report of those who are outside the faith. The office of such a person shall be to read and exhort and teach. warn, admonish, or ban in the congregation, and properly to preside among the sisters and brothers in prayer, and in the breaking of bread, and in all things to take care of the body of Christ, that it may be built up and developed, so that the name of God might be praised and honored through us, and the mouth of the mocker be stopped. He shall be supported, wherein he has need, by the congregation which has chosen him, so that he who serves the gospel can also live therefrom, as the Lord has ordered. But should a shepherd do something worthy of reprimand, nothing shall be done with him without the voice of two or three witnesses. If they sin they shall be publicly reprimanded, so that others might fear. But if the shepherd should be driven away or led to the Lord by the cross, at the same hour another shall be ordained to his place, so that the little folk and the little flock of God may not be destroyed, but be preserved by warning and be consoled. Concerning the Sword The sword is an ordering of God outside the perfection of Christ. It punishes and kills the wicked and guards and protects the good. In the law the sword is established over the wicked for punishment and for death and the secular rulers are established to wield the same. But within the perfection of Christ only the ban is used for the admonition and exclusion of the one who has sinned, without the death of the flesh, simply the warning and the command to sin no more. Now many, who do not understand Christ's will for us, will ask; whether a Christian may or should use the sword against the wicked for the protection and defense of the good, or for the sake of love. The answer is unanimously revealed: Christ teaches and commands us to learn from Him, for He is meek and lowly of heart and thus we shall find rest for our souls. Now Christ says to the woman who was taken in adultery, not that she should be stoned according to the law of His Father (and yet He says, "What the Father commanded me, that I do") but with mercy and forgiveness and the warning to sin no more, says: "Go, sin no more." Exactly thus should we also proceed, according to the rule of the ban. Second, is asked concerning the sword: whether a Christian shall pass sentence in disputes and strife about worldly matters, such as the unbelievers have with one another. The answer: Christ did not wish to decide or pass judgment between brother and brother concerning inheritance, but refused to do so. So should we also do. Third, is asked concerning the sword: whether the Christian should be a magistrate if he is chosen thereto. This is answered thus: Christ was to be made king, but He fled and did not discern the ordinance of His Father. Thus we should also do as He did and follow after Him, and we shall not walk in darkness. For He Himself says: "Whoever would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me." He Himself further forbids the violence of the sword when He says: "The princes of this world lord it over them etc., but among you it shall not be so." Further Paul says, "Whom God has foreknown, the same he has also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son," etc. Peter also says: "Christ has suffered (not ruled) and has left us an example, that you should follow after in his steps." Lastly, one can see in the following points that it does not befit a Christian to be a magistrate: the rule of the government is according to the flesh, that of the Christians according to the Spirit. Their houses and dwelling remain in this world, that of the Christians is in heaven. Their citizenship is in this world, that of the Christians is in heaven. The weapons of their battle and warfare are carnal and only against the flesh, but the weapons of Christians are spiritual, against the fortification of the devil. The worldly are armed with steel and iron, but Christians are armed with the armor of God, with truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and with the Word of God. In sum: as Christ our Head is minded, so also must be minded the members of the body of Christ through Him, so that there be no division in the body, through which it would be destroyed. Since then Christ is as is written of Him, so must His members also be the same, so that His body may remain whole and unified for its own advancement and upbuilding. For any kingdom which is divided within itself will be destroyed. Concerning the Oath We have been united as follows concerning the oath. The oath is a confirmation among those who are quarreling or making promises. In the law it is commanded that it should be done only in the name of God, truthfully and not falsely. Christ, who teaches the perfection of the law, forbids His all swearing, whether true or false; neither by heaven nor by earth, neither by Jerusalem nor by our head; and that for the reason which He goes on to give: "For you cannot make one hair white or black." You see, thereby all swearing is forbidden. We cannot perform what is promised in the swearing, for we are not able to change the smallest part of ourselves. Now there are some who do not believe the simple commandment of God and who say, "But God swore by Himself to Abraham, because He was God (as He promised him that He would do good to him and would be his God if he kept His commandments). Why then should I not swear if I promise something to someone?" The answer: hear what the Scripture says: "God, since he wished to prove overabundantly to the heirs of His promise that His will did not change, inserted an oath so that by two immutable things we might have a stronger consolation (for it is impossible that God should lie"). Notice the meaning of the passage: God has the power to do what He forbids you, for everything is possible to Him. God swore an oath to Abraham, Scripture says, in order to prove that His counsel is immutable. That means: no one can withstand and thwart His will; thus He can keep His oath. But we cannot, as Christ said above, hold or perform our oath, therefore we should not swear. Others say that swearing cannot be forbidden by God in the New Testament when it was commanded in the Old, but that it is forbidden only to swear by heaven, earth, Jerusalem, and our head. Answer: hear the Scripture. He who swears by heaven, swears by God's throne and by Him who sits thereon. Observe: swearing by heaven is forbidden, which is only God's throne; how much more is it forbidden to swear by God Himself. You blind fools, what is greater, the throne or He who sits upon it? Others say, if it is then wrong to use God for truth, then the apostles Peter and Paul also swore. Answer: Peter and Paul only testify to that which God promised Abraham, whom we long after have received. But when one testifies, one testifies concerning that which is present, whether it be good or evil. Thus Simeon spoke of Christ to Mary and testified: "Behold: this one is ordained for the falling and rising of many in Israel and to be a sign which will be spoken against." Christ taught us similarly when He says: Your speech shall be yea, yea; and nay, nay; for what is more than that comes of evil. He says, your speech or your word shall be yes and no, so that no one might understand that He had permitted it. Christ is simply yea and nay, and all those who seek Him simply will understand His Word. Amen. Taken from the Global Anabaptist Wiki with translation by John H. Yoder, Herald Press 1977. These articles of faith are based on a literal interpretation of the Sermon on the Mount from Matthew chapters 5-7. Although there are similarities between Anabaptist and Baptist beliefs, don't mistake them as being related.

This image shows that, although the Anabaptists were picked on by both Catholics and Protestants, they were really treated no differently than any other Christian of the time. Catholics were beheading Protestants and, before long, Protestants were beheading everyone.

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Edict of Saint-Germain Tuesday, January 17, 2023 Somewhere someone may be remembering the Edict of Saint-Germain on this day in 1562, which brought temporary peace between predominantly Catholic France and its smaller Protestant population, the Huguenots, by allowing the latter a few meager concessions, such as when and where they could hold services. As mentioned, the peace was temporary and many French realms opposed the edict, even killing Huguenots, which led to the French Wars of Religion that lasted until 1598 and resulted in the deaths of millions of French persons who were identified as Huguenots (French Calvinists), Zwinglians (French Lutherans based on the theology of Ulrich Zwingli), and Waldensians (followers of the teaching of Peter Waldo prior to the Protestant Reformation), including several Catholics. Even after the Edict of Nantes in 1598, which should've brought an end to the fighting, many Huguenots were still persecuted, which led to several rebellions in the decades following. The Protestant population in France steadily declined to near extinction either by conversion, death, or emigration until the Edict of Versailles in 1787. Two years later, Protestants in France were granted equal rights as Catholics. The term Huguenot was generally in reference to the Dutch Huis Genooten ("housemates"), referring to those who gathered in homes to secretly study the theology of John Calvin, although there are other reported origins of the term related to the names of various individuals, including the Swiss politician Besançon Hugues, king of France Hugues Capet, King Hugo of Italy, and Czech theologian Jan Hus, to name a few. Due to its length, the contents of the 1559 French Confession of Faith of the Reformed Church of France can be read here or here. One of the primary tenets of faith was that of the authority of scripture:

For the articles of our faith, which are all declared at some length in our Confession, all come to this: that since God has sufficiently declared his will to us through his Prophets and Apostles, and even by the mouth of his Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, we owe such respect and reverence to the Word of God as shall prevent us from adding to it any thing of our own, but shall make us conform entirely to the rules it prescribes. And inasmuch as the Roman Church, forsaking the use and customs of the primitive Church, has introduced new commandments and a new form of worship of God, we esteem it but reasonable to prefer the commandments of God, who is himself truth, to the commandments of men, who by their nature are inclined to deceit and vanity. And whatever our enemies may say against us, we can declare this before God and men, that we suffer for no other reason than for maintaining our Lord Jesus Christ to be our only Saviour and Redeemer, and his doctrine to be the only doctrine of life and salvation.

What Is Man? Monday, January 16, 2023 Today is Martin Luther King Jr. Day in the U.S., formally signed in as a federal holiday by Ronald Reagan in 1983. Since then, all U.S. elementary school students have memorized King's famous "I Have A Dream" speech and, since we all know it by heart, I felt it appropriate to present his lesser-known "What Is Man?" speech. Because of copyright restrictions by Intellectual Properties Management, which owns exclusive rights to all of MLK's writings, only brief excerpts are provided here.

	July 9 or possibly July 11, 1954 (Montgomery, Alabama) "What is man that thou art mindful of him?" This question...is largely determined by...the world today...facing responsibility. Our generation...has grown to extensive propotions but...there is fantastic disagreement. A few modern thinkers...of yesterday...spoke of man as the supreme clown of...a chemical laboratory...that go[es] to the lowest hell. And so we can see that the attempt to answer the question -- what is...the Christian doctrine of the nature of man...an animal with a material body. This is somewhat obvious. Man is properly a part of...the bodies of animals in general. This is what distinguishes Christian from Greek. To [sic] often have we talked about...little concern for...bread alone, but the mere fact that...religion...is not interested in the...government that corrupts...and...cripples...new blood. We can talk all we want to about...meaningless...man's nature. Yet we cannot stop...flesh and blood. Some year [sic] ago a chemist attempted to determine...man was worth only 99 cents. Can we explain...99 cents? This is ultimately that which distingushes man from his animal ancestry. He is made to have communion with that which is...an animal writing Shakesperian play. We have never seen...the nature and destiny of the universe. But man...being...able to think...he's able to imagine a great civilization and create it through his amazing capacity for...limitations of time and space... through his powers of...uncertainties of the future. Man has within himself the power of...certain limits...of meaninful [sic] ends. All that has just been said concerning...the Christian contention that man is made in the image of God...is the ultimate meaning of...our animal ancestry and the many inanimat [sic] objects of the universe. Now we must admit that...God has left us. God's image has been terribly scarred by...this term. We have attempted to...relieve us of responsibility...whether we want to accept it or not. Whenever a man looks deep down into the depths of...fact...of the gonewrongness of human nature...man...lives...in rioteous [sic] living. Again I find myself saying: 'Man is..to have dominion...under his feet.' This is man's kingly perogative [sic]. Who this afternoon will rise out of the...beaty [sic] and goodness; yea even where God the eternal dwells forever[?]
For the full text of this speech, which might make sense, visit the The Martin Luther King, Jr. Research and Education Institute online at Stanford University.