Tuesday, August 31, 2004
Republicans Against Family Values
Texas Republicans CHIP away at traditional family values (link via Not Quite Catholic But Still Enjoying It!)
Texas Republicans CHIP away at traditional family values (link via Not Quite Catholic But Still Enjoying It!)
Ut Unum Sint
IOANNES PAULUS II, quoted in Pope's Message to Patriarch Alexy II on Returning Icon of Kazan:
IOANNES PAULUS II, quoted in Pope's Message to Patriarch Alexy II on Returning Icon of Kazan:
- "May the Holy Mother of God turn her maternal gaze towards the men and women of our time; may she help believers not to stray from the path which God has set before them: the proclamation of Jesus Christ, the way, and the truth and the life, and a courageous testimony to their faith before society and before all the nations. Today we pray with confidence to the Most Holy Virgin, knowing that she implores for us and for all nations the gift of peace."
The Blessed Virgin, Our Solitary Boast
From Shrine's guardian says pope believes Mary is perfect model of belief:
From Shrine's guardian says pope believes Mary is perfect model of belief:
- "The pope insists you can learn to believe from Mary; she was fully open to God's plan."
Urgent Appeal For Preserving Life
From The Lidless Eye Inquisition:
From The Lidless Eye Inquisition:
- Here is the text I received this morning via email.
Hello, everyone!
I've been speaking to an unmarried woman in her mid-30s, in her fourth month with a Downs Syndrome Baby. She has an aborton scheduled.
She has relented, and given us a few days to see if there is a family out there who wants to adopt her special-needs baby. Her family is totally against the abortion, and wants her to adopt the baby out.
Mom was very insistent on going ahead with the abortion, so this respite of a few days buys us time.
Do you know of anyone right now ready to adopt a special-needs baby?
It is probably better if they have gotten their home study or are in the process. We need to have this woman speak to people who can take action now and convince her that her baby is wanted. If you don't know of any families, pls keep us all in prayer. I thank God we've been given this time to help her.
Thank you all.
Anyone who can help with providing a home for this baby, please contact Geri or Barbara.
Catholics & Politics
Re: GOP Woos Critical Voting Bloc: Catholics
It has been said several times: Catholics never left the Democratic Party; it left them.
Re: GOP Woos Critical Voting Bloc: Catholics
It has been said several times: Catholics never left the Democratic Party; it left them.
Anti-Catholic Violence in India
Hindu radicals suspected in Indian priest's stabbing death & New attack against Catholics in Orissa
Hindu radicals suspected in Indian priest's stabbing death & New attack against Catholics in Orissa
Monday, August 30, 2004
Al-Qaeda & the Vatican
A statement signed by the Abu Hafs al-Masri Brigades-European Battalion, quoted in Al-Qaeda group pledges to spare Vatican from terror:
A statement signed by the Abu Hafs al-Masri Brigades-European Battalion, quoted in Al-Qaeda group pledges to spare Vatican from terror:
- "We declare that the Vatican will never be one of our targets, as we will only strike in painful places which will force the vile Italian soldiers in Iraq to get out."
Fellow Travelers
I'm not necessarily a supporter of President Bush (I'm more anti-Kerry than pro-Bush), but I found these images from Communits for KERRY, a very funny site, quite amusing (link via Otto-da-Fe):
I'm not necessarily a supporter of President Bush (I'm more anti-Kerry than pro-Bush), but I found these images from Communits for KERRY, a very funny site, quite amusing (link via Otto-da-Fe):
DPRK Environment
Re: North Korea's environment crisis
Planned economies are not good at conservation.
Re: North Korea's environment crisis
Planned economies are not good at conservation.
Sunday, August 29, 2004
Monarchism, Republicanism, Legitimatism, and Korea
Father Jim Tucker, of Dappled Things, has posted an interesting piece on Monarchism entitled Habsburgs in Hungary. In it, he provides a link to a thought-provoking article with the rather lame title of More dynasty than Dallas from the The Budapest Sun. The article contains the following quote from Otto von Habsburg:
Words of wisdom worthy of an emperor.
There is no form of government that suits all nations, no matter what American foreign policy has said since the days of President Wilson. Catholic traditionalists will always have a soft place in their hearts for Monarchism, but just as for individuals the celebate state, though superior, is not for everyone, the superior state of Monarchism is not for every nation. The United States of America is a case in point. Monarchism would not work for the American people. It seems Republicanism, however dysfunctional it has become (largely due to democratization), is a form of government well-suited to America's national character.
But what about Korea? Traditionally, it was a Monarchy. The Choson Dysnasty ruled fom 1392 to 1910, when the nation was annexed by Japan, largely due to the incompetence of the royal family. After liberation, the Republic of Korea was founded in 1948 in the South, while a Stalinist "People's Democratic Republic" took hold of the North. In the South, relative poverty and chaos reigned until strongman Park Chung-hee's rule from 1961 to 1979, which ushered in an era of rapid development at the expense of political liberty. The "democratization" movement dominated the political scene in the1980s and realized many of its goals in 1997 with the election of Kim Dae-jung. What has followed has been a period of economic uncertainty and what many would label appeasement with the Stalinist North.
The question remains, which form of government is most "legitimate" for the character of the Korean people? The savage tyranny in the North is to be discounted outright. But what about the South? Although the monarchy produced a visionary like King Sejong the Great in the 15th Century, in the 19th Century it did not serve the Korean people well and would not be welcomed back in the 21st Century under the present circumstances. But perhaps with reunification, an heir to the Choson throne could provide the same focus for national stabilty and unity that His Majesty King King Horodom Sihanouk has provided for post-Khmer Rouge Cambodia.
Even after seven years in Korea, I am afraid I do not know the Korean people well enough to speculate as to what form of government might be best for them. Theirs is a highly hierarchical yet paradoxically egalitarian society. For the time being, South Koreans will have to resort to Republicanism. Perhaps it will not be until the collapse of the regime in the North that a united and free Korea finally finds a government suited to its people's character.
Father Jim Tucker, of Dappled Things, has posted an interesting piece on Monarchism entitled Habsburgs in Hungary. In it, he provides a link to a thought-provoking article with the rather lame title of More dynasty than Dallas from the The Budapest Sun. The article contains the following quote from Otto von Habsburg:
- "I am often asked if I am a republican or a monarchist. I am neither, I am a legitimist: I am for legitimate government. You could never have a monarchy in Switzerland, and it would be asinine to imagine Spain as a republic."
Words of wisdom worthy of an emperor.
There is no form of government that suits all nations, no matter what American foreign policy has said since the days of President Wilson. Catholic traditionalists will always have a soft place in their hearts for Monarchism, but just as for individuals the celebate state, though superior, is not for everyone, the superior state of Monarchism is not for every nation. The United States of America is a case in point. Monarchism would not work for the American people. It seems Republicanism, however dysfunctional it has become (largely due to democratization), is a form of government well-suited to America's national character.
But what about Korea? Traditionally, it was a Monarchy. The Choson Dysnasty ruled fom 1392 to 1910, when the nation was annexed by Japan, largely due to the incompetence of the royal family. After liberation, the Republic of Korea was founded in 1948 in the South, while a Stalinist "People's Democratic Republic" took hold of the North. In the South, relative poverty and chaos reigned until strongman Park Chung-hee's rule from 1961 to 1979, which ushered in an era of rapid development at the expense of political liberty. The "democratization" movement dominated the political scene in the1980s and realized many of its goals in 1997 with the election of Kim Dae-jung. What has followed has been a period of economic uncertainty and what many would label appeasement with the Stalinist North.
The question remains, which form of government is most "legitimate" for the character of the Korean people? The savage tyranny in the North is to be discounted outright. But what about the South? Although the monarchy produced a visionary like King Sejong the Great in the 15th Century, in the 19th Century it did not serve the Korean people well and would not be welcomed back in the 21st Century under the present circumstances. But perhaps with reunification, an heir to the Choson throne could provide the same focus for national stabilty and unity that His Majesty King King Horodom Sihanouk has provided for post-Khmer Rouge Cambodia.
Even after seven years in Korea, I am afraid I do not know the Korean people well enough to speculate as to what form of government might be best for them. Theirs is a highly hierarchical yet paradoxically egalitarian society. For the time being, South Koreans will have to resort to Republicanism. Perhaps it will not be until the collapse of the regime in the North that a united and free Korea finally finds a government suited to its people's character.
Five Things to Erase from History
Mr. Gordon Sellar, of welcome to eclexys, posted this question a few days ago in a posting entitled Forget About It!:
Without much thought, I'd choose:
Mr. Gordon Sellar, of welcome to eclexys, posted this question a few days ago in a posting entitled Forget About It!:
- "You've been given the choice of having 5 memories removed from the world's collective memories. If you forget them, it will be as if they never happened. Which 5 do you choose?"
Without much thought, I'd choose:
- 1. 1933 - Hitler's Rise to Power
2. 1917 - The Bolshevik Revolution
3. 1789 - The French Revolution
4. 1453 - The Fall of Constantinople
5. 1053 - The Mutual Anathema between the Eastern and Western Churches
Blessing of Beer
I've seen this in a few places on the Internet lately. Perhaps the Shrine of the Holy Whapping was the first to post it. It provides yet another reason to be Catholic, as if there weren't so many already.
I've seen this in a few places on the Internet lately. Perhaps the Shrine of the Holy Whapping was the first to post it. It provides yet another reason to be Catholic, as if there weren't so many already.
- Blessing of Beer
P. Our help is in the name of the Lord.
All. Who made heaven and earth.
P. The Lord be with you.
All. May he also be with you.
Let us pray.
Lord, bless + this creature, beer, which by Your kindness and power has been produced from kernels of grain, and let it be a healthful drink for mankind. Grant that whoever drinks it with thanksgiving to your holy name may find it a help in body and in soul; through Christ our Lord.
All: Amen.
The beer is sprinkled with holy water.
--From the 1964 Roman Ritual, VIII:5
From ECUSA to Uganda's Anglican Church
From Episcopal parishes' feud spills overseas:
[See also Two Parishes Bolt ECUSA, Join Anglican Province in Africa.]
From Episcopal parishes' feud spills overseas:
- "St. James Church in Newport Beach and All Saints Church in Long Beach... quit the Episcopal Church and joined Uganda's Anglican Church, largely over the homosexuality issue.
"This week Archbishop Henry Luke Orombi, head of Uganda's 8 million-member church, said he was defending U.S. Episcopalians who uphold 'biblical orthodoxy.'"
[See also Two Parishes Bolt ECUSA, Join Anglican Province in Africa.]
Yesterday's Saint Speaks to Us Today
Re: St. Augustine: Ancient Feast Day of a Timely Saint
He saw Roman Civilization crumble. We are seeing Western Civilization crumble.
Re: St. Augustine: Ancient Feast Day of a Timely Saint
He saw Roman Civilization crumble. We are seeing Western Civilization crumble.
South Korean Baby Bust and Female Feticide
From South Korean Births Drop to 35 Year Low, Underpopulation a Problem:
From South Korean Births Drop to 35 Year Low, Underpopulation a Problem:
- "One reason for the decline in the birth rate is the tendency for Korean couples to have sex-selection abortions. As in other Asian countries, especially China, Koreans have a preference for boys.
"Figures from the Korean National Statistical Office show 108.7 male babies were born last year per 100 female babies. That's an improvement over the 115.3 to 100 ratio from 10 years ago -- due in part to the government banning hospitals from identifying an unborn child's sex in 1994."
Saturday, August 28, 2004
Bodes Ill for Reunification
Re: Rescue Yields Repercussions for South Korea: Seoul's recent airlift of Northern defectors may scuttle nuclear talks with Pyongyang and raises questions about citizenship
If resettling 468 North Korean defectors is causing this much trouble for the South Korean government, I cannot imagine reunification of the two Koreas coming about any time soon.
Re: Rescue Yields Repercussions for South Korea: Seoul's recent airlift of Northern defectors may scuttle nuclear talks with Pyongyang and raises questions about citizenship
If resettling 468 North Korean defectors is causing this much trouble for the South Korean government, I cannot imagine reunification of the two Koreas coming about any time soon.
Ut Unum Sint
Re: Cardinal Kasper Commends Unity of Catholic and Orthodox to Virgin of Kazan
Virgin of Kazan, Pray for Our Unity.
Re: Cardinal Kasper Commends Unity of Catholic and Orthodox to Virgin of Kazan
Virgin of Kazan, Pray for Our Unity.
Paul Hamm, Give it Back!
Re: U.S. Officials Reject Appeal for Medal: Request to Hamm Termed 'Outrageous'; IOC Won't Award 2nd Medal
Thus far, I've managed to avoid this hot topic, which is boiling over here in Korea, but the USOC's embarrassing response to FIG's gentlemanly request has promoted me to post. Paul Hamm will feel much better about himself in twenty years if he gives the gold medal to Yang Tae Youn. Instead, he will be looking at a medal he knows he holds to due to a scoring error and rightfully belongs to a better athlete.
Re: U.S. Officials Reject Appeal for Medal: Request to Hamm Termed 'Outrageous'; IOC Won't Award 2nd Medal
Thus far, I've managed to avoid this hot topic, which is boiling over here in Korea, but the USOC's embarrassing response to FIG's gentlemanly request has promoted me to post. Paul Hamm will feel much better about himself in twenty years if he gives the gold medal to Yang Tae Youn. Instead, he will be looking at a medal he knows he holds to due to a scoring error and rightfully belongs to a better athlete.
The Stupidest Thing I've Read about in a Long, Long Time
A Touchy Subject: At Cuddle Parties, Strangers Don PJs and Snuggle Up
A Touchy Subject: At Cuddle Parties, Strangers Don PJs and Snuggle Up
"Well-being" in Korea
Re: A Good Life
The "Well-being" trend is a good one. It focuses on quality of life, natural food, and health. It adds a much needed counter-balance to Korea's frenetic society. But what is more sorely needed in Korea is religion. This is one of the most irreligious societies on the planet.
Re: A Good Life
The "Well-being" trend is a good one. It focuses on quality of life, natural food, and health. It adds a much needed counter-balance to Korea's frenetic society. But what is more sorely needed in Korea is religion. This is one of the most irreligious societies on the planet.
"You Reap What You Sow"
Re: Small Korean Mistakes Hastened USFK Reductions
The massive anti-American demonstrtions over the past two years have been effective. I agree with Patrick J. Buchanan, who called for a withdrawal of US forces from Korea almost two years ago in The Coming U.S. Retreat from Asia.
weblog@orankay, by the way, puts US-Korea relations into proper perspective in a posting entitled pro-US lip service.
Re: Small Korean Mistakes Hastened USFK Reductions
The massive anti-American demonstrtions over the past two years have been effective. I agree with Patrick J. Buchanan, who called for a withdrawal of US forces from Korea almost two years ago in The Coming U.S. Retreat from Asia.
weblog@orankay, by the way, puts US-Korea relations into proper perspective in a posting entitled pro-US lip service.
Bizarro
Re: Dead Couple to Be Married
Being that they're dead, theirs won't be a sacramental marriage.
Re: Dead Couple to Be Married
Being that they're dead, theirs won't be a sacramental marriage.
Machiavellian Realpolitik
Kissinger Comments Seen As OK for Abuse
The above is not surprising from the man who conducted a secret war in Cambodia and sold out Free China (Taiwan, ROC) for the Reds.
Kissinger Comments Seen As OK for Abuse
The above is not surprising from the man who conducted a secret war in Cambodia and sold out Free China (Taiwan, ROC) for the Reds.
Sir Paul Wears the Pants: Male Headship of the Family
Re: McCartney Stops Wife's Iraq Visit
Sir Paul McCartney was raised Catholic and seems to have a good sense of his headship of the family. C.S. Lewis defended male headship of the family like this:
Re: McCartney Stops Wife's Iraq Visit
Sir Paul McCartney was raised Catholic and seems to have a good sense of his headship of the family. C.S. Lewis defended male headship of the family like this:
- "If there must be a head, why the man? Well, firstly, is there any serious wish that it should be a woman? . . . as far as I can see, even a woman who wants to be head of her own house does not usually admire the same state of things when she finds it going on next door. She is much more likely to say, 'Poor Mr. X! Why he allows that appalling woman to boss him about the way she does is more than I can imagine.' I do not think she is even very flattered if anyone mentions the fact of her own 'headship.' There must be something unnatural about the rule of wives over husbands, because wives themselves are half ashamed of it and despise the husbands whom they rule. But there is also another reason; and here I speak quite frankly as a bachelor, because it is a reason you can see from outside even better than from inside. The relations of the family to the outer world -what might be called its foreign policy -must depend, in the last resort, upon the man, because he always ought to be, and usually is, much more just to the outsiders. A woman is primarily fighting for her own children and husband against the rest of the world. Naturally, almost, in a sense, rightly, their claims override, for her, all other claims. She is the special trustee of their interests. The function of the husband is to see that this natural preference of hers is not given its head. He has the last word in order to protect other people from the intense family patriotism of the wife. If anyone doubts this, let me ask a simple question. If your dog has bitten the child next door, or if your child has hurt the dog next door, which would you sooner have to deal with, the master of that house or the mistress? Or, if you are a married woman, let me ask you this question. Much as you admire your husband, would you not say that his chief failing is his tendency not to stick up for his rights and yours against the neighbours as vigorously as you would like? A bit of an Appeaser?" (from Mere Christianity, CHAPTER 16: CHRISTIAN MARRIAGE)
Why They Hate Us
Re: Muslims See ‘Liberalism’ As America’s Downfall
The author of Liberalism is America’s Downfall (Agnosticism/Atheism Blog) is scandalized by the fact that "the Christian Right tends to hate all of the same things about modern America that Muslim extremists complain about" and reads the above article as an "apology for Islamic extremism." He should not be scandalized, nor should he misread the orthodox Christian's contempt for modern America, which in no way condones terrorism. Christians and Muslims worship the same God and share many common social concerns.
Re: Muslims See ‘Liberalism’ As America’s Downfall
The author of Liberalism is America’s Downfall (Agnosticism/Atheism Blog) is scandalized by the fact that "the Christian Right tends to hate all of the same things about modern America that Muslim extremists complain about" and reads the above article as an "apology for Islamic extremism." He should not be scandalized, nor should he misread the orthodox Christian's contempt for modern America, which in no way condones terrorism. Christians and Muslims worship the same God and share many common social concerns.
The Holy Father and the Orthodox
The pilgrim looks east: Although an ailing pope may never visit Moscow, an icon goes before him
The pilgrim looks east: Although an ailing pope may never visit Moscow, an icon goes before him
A Nun in Siberia
From Daughter of Red Army General Credits Father for Vocational Decision:
From Daughter of Red Army General Credits Father for Vocational Decision:
- "Together with two Polish nuns, Sister Teresa spends four days a week helping street children, prisoners and the sick whom she visits either in the hospital or at home.
"Sister Teresa highlighted two difficulties of pastoral work. The first is the extreme material poverty in which the people she helps live, which is a challenge for people's faith and intelligence. According to the sister, she can no longer give away new clothes and toys because “their parents resell them to buy vodka."
"A second difficulty she encounters in her apostolate is the intense activity of South Korean and U.S. protestant movements." (my emphasis)
The Father of Lies (and Euphemisms)
The devil uses euphemisms to deceive people about life and the family, warns Chilean Cardinal
The devil uses euphemisms to deceive people about life and the family, warns Chilean Cardinal
Today's Saint
Saint Augustine of Hippo
Here is a profile of this great saint and philosopher from the above link:
Saint Augustine of Hippo
Here is a profile of this great saint and philosopher from the above link:
- "His father was a pagan who converted on his death bed; his mother was Saint Monica, a devout Christian. Trained in Christianity, he lost his faith in youth and led a wild life. Lived with a Carthaginian woman from the age of 15 through 30. Fathered a son whom he named Adeotadus, which means the gift of God. Taught rhetoric at Carthage and Milan. After investigating and experimenting with several philosophies, he became a Manichaean for several years; it taught of a great struggle between good and evil, and featured a lax moral code. A summation of his thinking at the time comes from his Confessions: 'God, give me chastity and continence - but not just now.'
"Augustine finally broke with the Manichaeans and was converted by the prayers of his mother and the help of Saint Ambrose of Milan, who baptized him. On the death of his mother he returned to Africa, sold his property, gave the proceeds to the poor, and founded a monastery. Monk. Priest. Preacher. Bishop of Hippo in 396. Founded religious communities. Fought Manichaeism, Donatism, Pelagianism and other heresies. Oversaw his church and his see during the fall of the Roman Empire to the Vandals. Doctor of the Church. His later thinking can also be summed up in a line from his writings:
"'Our hearts were made for You, O Lord, and they are restless until they rest in you.'"
Friday, August 27, 2004
Korean Diaspora in L.A.
From Invisible Immigrants: In Los Angeles, the "old country" for many Koreatown residents is not Korea. Try places like Argentina, Brazil and Russia.:
KS Comment: When I lived in Santiago, Chile, I was impressed by the numbers of Koreans living there. They dominated the textile industry there and sent their children to the best schools. The majority of passengers on a flight I took from Santiago to New York City seemed to be Koreans going from one Koreatown to another. In fact, the entire Southern Cone has a large Korean (and Asian) population. São Paulo, if I'm not mistaken, has about 1,000,000 citizens of Japanese descent! You see as many Asian faces in that city as you do in San Francisco or Toronto.
[Thanks to The Marmot's Hole for the link.]
From Invisible Immigrants: In Los Angeles, the "old country" for many Koreatown residents is not Korea. Try places like Argentina, Brazil and Russia.:
- “'Yo soy Coreano.'
"'Eu sou Coreano.'
“'Ya Koreanka.'
"I am Korean.
"These are a few of the Korean voices in Los Angeles that you may have never heard. They are the invisible immigrants who live among the largest Korean population in the United States. Hailing from places like Argentina, Brazil and Russia, they are a dispersed people within a community that they don’t always identify with. This Diaspora has challenged notions of what it is to be Korean since its members all have widely varied experiences. Now living in the United States, their backgrounds and cultures are merging into what should be considered, in light of our nation’s history, decidedly American..."
KS Comment: When I lived in Santiago, Chile, I was impressed by the numbers of Koreans living there. They dominated the textile industry there and sent their children to the best schools. The majority of passengers on a flight I took from Santiago to New York City seemed to be Koreans going from one Koreatown to another. In fact, the entire Southern Cone has a large Korean (and Asian) population. São Paulo, if I'm not mistaken, has about 1,000,000 citizens of Japanese descent! You see as many Asian faces in that city as you do in San Francisco or Toronto.
[Thanks to The Marmot's Hole for the link.]
(South Korean) National Security Law
From [Photo]Security risk:
From [Photo]Security risk:
Korean veterans protesting yesterday in front of the National Human Rights Commission to denounce the commission's recommendation for the abolition of the National Security Law. By Park Jong-keun
Legal Setbacks for Life, Marriage
Judge Stops Partial-Birth Abortion Ban & Ore. County Gays to Get Marriage Licenses
Judge Stops Partial-Birth Abortion Ban & Ore. County Gays to Get Marriage Licenses
Oh, Canada!
Re: Outspoken Canadian Legislator Calls U.S. 'Idiots' & Liberal MP has no apology for calling U.S. missile defence supporters idiots
I oppose unjust wars, i.e. wars of aggression and "pre-emptive" wars, but I see little wrong with missile defense.
Re: Outspoken Canadian Legislator Calls U.S. 'Idiots' & Liberal MP has no apology for calling U.S. missile defence supporters idiots
I oppose unjust wars, i.e. wars of aggression and "pre-emptive" wars, but I see little wrong with missile defense.
God Bless Bishop Emeritus Rene Henry Gracida!
Life, Death … and Farm Subsidies? Bishop says priorities askew in conference questionnaire
Life, Death … and Farm Subsidies? Bishop says priorities askew in conference questionnaire
Daejeon, South Korea: The 8th Plenary Assembly of the Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences
Asian Assembly focuses on family life
Asian Assembly focuses on family life
Religious Violence?
One of the most commonly-held myths is that religion is, and has been, the major cause of violence and strife in the world. "Just look at Northern Ireland, Kashmir, Palestine," the Progressive says. "If we can just re-educate these people out of their superstitious beliefs, if we can make them enlightened as we are, such violence will surely end."
This comes from Islam: A Simple Man’s View, an article I linked to earlier:
Northern Ireland is a case in point. That's not a conflict between Catholics and Protestants; it's a 1500-year-old conflict over land. The same is true of the Middle East and the Balkans.
Ann Coulter, a writer I don't really care for, made a good point of noting that Atheism, with adherents like Hitler, Stalin, Mao, and Pol Pot, was the real cause of the 20th Century's unprecedented violence.
As Fyodor M. Dostoyevsky noted in The Brothers Karamazov, " If there is no God, everything is permissible."
One of the most commonly-held myths is that religion is, and has been, the major cause of violence and strife in the world. "Just look at Northern Ireland, Kashmir, Palestine," the Progressive says. "If we can just re-educate these people out of their superstitious beliefs, if we can make them enlightened as we are, such violence will surely end."
This comes from Islam: A Simple Man’s View, an article I linked to earlier:
- "So what’s the fighting about? Dietary differences?
"No. It’s political, as always. Keeping people unsettled and divided is always in the interest of political power. We’re living with the consequences of political deals that were cut decades ago, deals that pitted the identical values of designated groups against each other. Nobody wants interference with their religion, family, or business, so that’s what political government gives them. The ensuing melee serves the very criminals who caused it."
Northern Ireland is a case in point. That's not a conflict between Catholics and Protestants; it's a 1500-year-old conflict over land. The same is true of the Middle East and the Balkans.
Ann Coulter, a writer I don't really care for, made a good point of noting that Atheism, with adherents like Hitler, Stalin, Mao, and Pol Pot, was the real cause of the 20th Century's unprecedented violence.
As Fyodor M. Dostoyevsky noted in The Brothers Karamazov, " If there is no God, everything is permissible."
Thursday, August 26, 2004
Jeux Interdits (Forbidden Games)
Here in Korea, I've managed to amass a small library of classic films on DVD from the bargain bins of various discount stores, where they can be bought for as low as 4,800 won ($4.16).
I have just finished watching one of my latest additions, Jeux interdits (1952). I had never heard of the movie before, but bought it because of the stills showing a cross and a priest on the back. My wife suggested that this film was common knowledge to Koreans. [It is an understatement to say that we Americans tend to be ill-informed of movies that do not come from Hollywood, something that I have spent the last 15 years trying to correct in myself.]
Here is a Plot Summary for Jeux interdits:
Sounds pretty morbid, huh? But the film is not at all sentimental and, surprisingly, contains a lot of humor, albeit French humor (it's helpful here to remember that the French awarded Jerry Lewis the Legion of Honor). The film has a moving classical guitar soundtract by Narciso Yepes. There is also a lot of religious content: young Paulette learning her prayers and catechism from Michel, a traditional funeral mass, confessions. Don't expect a Hollywood happy ending though; this one ends with a kick in the gut.
So good and moral was this film, I was a bit surprsied it didn't make The Vatican Film List. However, the following description of that list explains why this omission should not be considered a slight:
One final thought: watching the beginning of the film, when Paulette loses her both parents and her dog (!) to German strafing, I could not help but wish that President Bush had seen this film before launching America's first "pre-emptive" war, whether or not it would have swayed his decision at all.
N.B.: The film seems not yet to be availble on DVD in the US. A search on Amazon.com led me to some soft-core porn movie.
from Jeux interdits
Here in Korea, I've managed to amass a small library of classic films on DVD from the bargain bins of various discount stores, where they can be bought for as low as 4,800 won ($4.16).
I have just finished watching one of my latest additions, Jeux interdits (1952). I had never heard of the movie before, but bought it because of the stills showing a cross and a priest on the back. My wife suggested that this film was common knowledge to Koreans. [It is an understatement to say that we Americans tend to be ill-informed of movies that do not come from Hollywood, something that I have spent the last 15 years trying to correct in myself.]
Here is a Plot Summary for Jeux interdits:
- "A small girl fleeing the Nazi conquest of Paris in 1940 with her family loses both of her parents and her dog to a strafing attack. She is taken in by a nearby peasant family and quickly develops a close friendship with their son. When she buries the dog, the two of them decide to create an entire animal cemetery and then go to great lengths to obtain crosses for the graves."
Sounds pretty morbid, huh? But the film is not at all sentimental and, surprisingly, contains a lot of humor, albeit French humor (it's helpful here to remember that the French awarded Jerry Lewis the Legion of Honor). The film has a moving classical guitar soundtract by Narciso Yepes. There is also a lot of religious content: young Paulette learning her prayers and catechism from Michel, a traditional funeral mass, confessions. Don't expect a Hollywood happy ending though; this one ends with a kick in the gut.
So good and moral was this film, I was a bit surprsied it didn't make The Vatican Film List. However, the following description of that list explains why this omission should not be considered a slight:
- "Titled simply 'Some Important Films,' this document is not meant to offer a set of definitive or magisterial 'top fifteen' lists, nor to establish these particular films as definitely more worthwhile than any film that was not included. 'Not all that deserve mention are included,' the pontifical council acknowledged in releasing the list."
One final thought: watching the beginning of the film, when Paulette loses her both parents and her dog (!) to German strafing, I could not help but wish that President Bush had seen this film before launching America's first "pre-emptive" war, whether or not it would have swayed his decision at all.
N.B.: The film seems not yet to be availble on DVD in the US. A search on Amazon.com led me to some soft-core porn movie.
Thoughts on the Fifth Beatle
Re: Preston happy to get back to world of the Beatles
As a middle and high school student, George was my favorite Beatle. Perhaps I felt a bit underappreciated, or in a spiritual quest. Later, when I began to accept many of the political ideas en vogue in the early nineties, thinking myself very original, John became my man. Now, as I work to feed a family, Paul is at the top of my list. For all I appreciate Ringo, I doubt he could ever be my favorite Beatle.
I wonder if Billy Preston could legitimately be someone's favorite Beatle?
Re: Preston happy to get back to world of the Beatles
As a middle and high school student, George was my favorite Beatle. Perhaps I felt a bit underappreciated, or in a spiritual quest. Later, when I began to accept many of the political ideas en vogue in the early nineties, thinking myself very original, John became my man. Now, as I work to feed a family, Paul is at the top of my list. For all I appreciate Ringo, I doubt he could ever be my favorite Beatle.
I wonder if Billy Preston could legitimately be someone's favorite Beatle?
Not Surprising
Re: Catholic school test scores top national averages
Is it really surpring that the religion that gave the world the idea of the university should have the best schools?
Re: Catholic school test scores top national averages
Is it really surpring that the religion that gave the world the idea of the university should have the best schools?
Abu Ghraib Revisited
Re: General says U.S. forces tortured Iraqis
Mr. Rumsfeld should have resigned months ago. Now, let's just hope the guilty receive their just punsishments.
Re: General says U.S. forces tortured Iraqis
Mr. Rumsfeld should have resigned months ago. Now, let's just hope the guilty receive their just punsishments.
Prophetic Words from Fyodor M. Dostoyevsky
Here are few passages from the Dostoyevsky's The Devils, written in 1871, "a grim prophecy of the Russian Revolution" and, in my opinion, of much of "Progressive" thought.
First, one of the minor characters in the novel decribes the ideas of another in a book in which he prosposes:
The same charecter continues two pages later:
Here, another character speaks:
That last quote reminds me of the program of Cultural Marxism that has been underway in the West since at least the 1960s. First, destroy the Civilization and all its vestiges (religion, the family, marriage, morality, decency, courtesy, etc.), then build the Socialist paradise.
Here are few passages from the Dostoyevsky's The Devils, written in 1871, "a grim prophecy of the Russian Revolution" and, in my opinion, of much of "Progressive" thought.
First, one of the minor characters in the novel decribes the ideas of another in a book in which he prosposes:
- "...as a final solution to the problem to divide humanity into two unequal parts. One-tenth is to be granted absolute freedom and unlimited powers over the remaining nine-tenths. Those must give up their individuality and be turned into something like a herd, and by their boundless obedience will by a series of regenerations attain a state of primeval innocence, something like the original paradise. They will have to work, however. The measures the author proposes for depriving the nine-tenths of humanity of their true will and their transformation into a herd by means of the re-education of whole generations, are very remarkable. They are based on the facts of nature and very logical."
The same charecter continues two pages later:
- "We are urged... to close our ranks and form groups with the sole purpose of bringing about general destruction on the pretext that however much you tried to cure the world, you would never succeed in curing it, while by adopting the radical measure of chopping off a hundred million heads we should ease our burdon and be able to jump over the ditch with much less trouble." (my emphasis)
Here, another character speaks:
- "The only thing that's wanting in the world is obedience. The desire for education is an aristocratic desire. The moment a man falls in love or has a family, he gets a desire for private property. We will destroy that desire; we'll resort to drunkeness, slander, denunciations; we'll resort to unheard of depravity; we shall smother every genuis in infancy. We shall reduce everything to one common denominator. Full equality." (my emphasis)
That last quote reminds me of the program of Cultural Marxism that has been underway in the West since at least the 1960s. First, destroy the Civilization and all its vestiges (religion, the family, marriage, morality, decency, courtesy, etc.), then build the Socialist paradise.
Korean "Baby Bust"
Re: Number of Births Hit Record Low Last Year, Number of Childbirths Decrease While Birth Rate Increases, & EDITORIALS]Reversing the baby bust
Unless Koreans start doing something to reverse this trend (e.g. getting married earlier and having more babies), their country might disappear within a few generations. The same can be said for Europeans.
Re: Number of Births Hit Record Low Last Year, Number of Childbirths Decrease While Birth Rate Increases, & EDITORIALS]Reversing the baby bust
Unless Koreans start doing something to reverse this trend (e.g. getting married earlier and having more babies), their country might disappear within a few generations. The same can be said for Europeans.
Wednesday, August 25, 2004
Tuesday, August 24, 2004
For All Budding Latinists
Re: A Look at the New 'Wheelock's Latin'
I'm an extreme amateur at Latin (having studied Spanish is immensely helpful), but this new version looks a bit P.C. and dumbed down. I'll stick to my vintage copy.
Re: A Look at the New 'Wheelock's Latin'
I'm an extreme amateur at Latin (having studied Spanish is immensely helpful), but this new version looks a bit P.C. and dumbed down. I'll stick to my vintage copy.
Comments
A self-described "chaos-majick practicing Wiccan witch of the 'black' variety" has been visiting the comment section of this blog lately.
A self-described "chaos-majick practicing Wiccan witch of the 'black' variety" has been visiting the comment section of this blog lately.
Saint Benedict,
Patron Against Witchcraft,
Pray for Us
The Blessed Virgin Brings Non-Christians to her Son
Re: Catholic Shrines Draw Hindus, Buddhists, Muslims
Although there are some problems with such an inter-mingling of faiths (the possibility of synctetism chief among them), and the Father Jacques Dupuis described in the article is in docrtinal error, it is hoped that these non-Christian pilgrims will come closer to Christ and the Church He established.
Re: Catholic Shrines Draw Hindus, Buddhists, Muslims
Although there are some problems with such an inter-mingling of faiths (the possibility of synctetism chief among them), and the Father Jacques Dupuis described in the article is in docrtinal error, it is hoped that these non-Christian pilgrims will come closer to Christ and the Church He established.
Red Neon Crosses
Re: N.Korea Wants Illuminated Church Crosses Removed
Any South Korean nocturnal cityscape is dotted by the red neon crosses that adorn every Protestant church. It is easy to count dozens of them from any location, as even the smallest store-front church will have a steeple with an illuminated cross.
The North, tellingly, wants these removed and "would in turn think about ways to erase huge political carvings on rocky cliffs facing the South that glorify its socialist system and leaders both alive and dead."
Re: N.Korea Wants Illuminated Church Crosses Removed
Any South Korean nocturnal cityscape is dotted by the red neon crosses that adorn every Protestant church. It is easy to count dozens of them from any location, as even the smallest store-front church will have a steeple with an illuminated cross.
The North, tellingly, wants these removed and "would in turn think about ways to erase huge political carvings on rocky cliffs facing the South that glorify its socialist system and leaders both alive and dead."
Monday, August 23, 2004
Language and Thought
From: Absence of linguistic skills could hamper thinking ability:
Here's a summary of the study:
The study seems to support the Linguistic Determinism of the Sapir-Whorf Hypothesis, which "states that there is a systematic relationship between the grammatical categories of the language a person speaks and how that person both understands the world and behaves in it." This idea is in opposition to Noam Chomsky's idea of the "innateness and universality of language."
One interesting thing to ponder is the thesis of Think No Evil: Korean Values in the Age of Globalization by by C. Fred Alford, that the Weltanschauung of Koreans is determined by the fact that their language contains no word that equates to the English term "evil."
[Thanks to Not Quite Catholic But Still Enjoying It! for the link.]
From: Absence of linguistic skills could hamper thinking ability:
- "[A] language lacking words for certain concepts could actually prevent speakers of the language from understanding those concepts"
Here's a summary of the study:
- "According to New Scientist, the researchers experimented with a Brazilian tribe called Pirahc, whose language allows counting only upto two. They found that when the members of the tribe were shown more objects they were unable to tell the difference between four objects placed in a row and five in the same configuration."
The study seems to support the Linguistic Determinism of the Sapir-Whorf Hypothesis, which "states that there is a systematic relationship between the grammatical categories of the language a person speaks and how that person both understands the world and behaves in it." This idea is in opposition to Noam Chomsky's idea of the "innateness and universality of language."
One interesting thing to ponder is the thesis of Think No Evil: Korean Values in the Age of Globalization by by C. Fred Alford, that the Weltanschauung of Koreans is determined by the fact that their language contains no word that equates to the English term "evil."
[Thanks to Not Quite Catholic But Still Enjoying It! for the link.]
Cherokees Uphold Marriage
From Same-Sex Marriage Prompts Cherokees to Bar Recurrence:
From Same-Sex Marriage Prompts Cherokees to Bar Recurrence:
- "[T]he Cherokee National Tribal Council voted to clearly define marriage as between a man and a woman."
"What is the equivalent for 'computer,' 'terrorist' or 'cowboy' in Latin?"
Read Keeping Latin up to Date and find out.
Read Keeping Latin up to Date and find out.
Today's Saint
Saint Rose of Lima
Saint Rose of Lima
- "Apart from the cross there is no other ladder by which we may get to heaven."
- Saint Rose of Lima
Sunday, August 22, 2004
A View from Asia
From [The Rising East]Images of the United States:
From [The Rising East]Images of the United States:
- "Several Asian visitors to Honolulu trooped down to a local cinema to see the controversial film produced by Michael Moore, 'Fahrenheit 9/11,' and came out astonished, not by its vehement criticism of President Bush but by the American freedom the film reflected..."
Still a Hardship Tour
From Troops say they’ll miss tours in Europe:
From Troops say they’ll miss tours in Europe:
- "It’s reductions to forces from South Korea — a hardship tour for most soldiers — that’s raising eyebrows among many troops." (emphasis added)
Lifespan of Democracies
I received this from the Caelum et Terra forum today:
Finding the language of the quote suspiciouly modern, I decided to look into it more deeply. It turns out that the author is a Mr. Tytler, not Tyler. Here's a biography of the author: Significant Scots: Alexander Fraser Tytler. According to this page, Alexander Fraser Tytler, the above quote is from 1776 and the word "benefits" is used instead of "money," and according to this page Alexander Tytler, the word "largesse" is used.
I received this from the Caelum et Terra forum today:
- In the year 1787, Alexander Tyler (a Scottish history professor at the University of Edinborough) wrote this:
"A democracy is always temporary in nature; it simply cannot exist as a permanent form of government. A democracy will continue to exist up until the time that voters discover that they can vote themselves generous gifts from the public treasury. From that moment on, the majority always votes for the candidates who promise the most benefits from the public treasury, with the result that every democracy will finally collapse due to loose fiscal policy, (which is) always followed by a dictatorship."
"The average age of the world's greatest civilizations from the beginning of history, has been about 200 years. During those 200 years, these nations always progressed through the following sequence:
From bondage to spiritual faith;
From spiritual faith to great courage;
From courage to liberty;
From liberty to abundance;
From abundance to complacency;
From complacency to apathy;
From apathy to dependence;
From dependence back into bondage."
Finding the language of the quote suspiciouly modern, I decided to look into it more deeply. It turns out that the author is a Mr. Tytler, not Tyler. Here's a biography of the author: Significant Scots: Alexander Fraser Tytler. According to this page, Alexander Fraser Tytler, the above quote is from 1776 and the word "benefits" is used instead of "money," and according to this page Alexander Tytler, the word "largesse" is used.
Dostoevsky Redux
I found a few passages from Fyodor Dostoevsky's The Devils quite thought-provoking.
The last is from a pamphlet, handed out by the revolutionaries condemned by the author, of "five or six lines addressed the whole of Russia without rhyme or reason":
The Left may be a bit subtler these days, but its goals are the same.
The second is from a heated conversation between two of the revolutionaries, one of whom has betrayed the cause:
Shatov's beliefs seem to mirror those of the author.
I wonder, is it possible to begin with a faith in the nation and its people and end up with faith in God? Could faith in the Church be a priori to faith in God?
And here is an earlier exchange in the same conversation:
This last exchange is very similar to something the author wrote in a letter to a friend:
I found a few passages from Fyodor Dostoevsky's The Devils quite thought-provoking.
The last is from a pamphlet, handed out by the revolutionaries condemned by the author, of "five or six lines addressed the whole of Russia without rhyme or reason":
- "'Hurry up and close down your churches, abolish your God, break your marriage vows, do away with the rghts of inheritance, arm yourselves with knives."
The Left may be a bit subtler these days, but its goals are the same.
The second is from a heated conversation between two of the revolutionaries, one of whom has betrayed the cause:
- "'All I wanted to know is whether you believe in God yourself.'
"'I believe in Russia. I believe in the Greek Orthodox Church. I - I believe in the body of Christ - I believe that the second coming will take place in Russia - I believe -' Shatov murmured in a frenzy.
'But in God? In God?'
'I - I shall believe in God.'"
Shatov's beliefs seem to mirror those of the author.
I wonder, is it possible to begin with a faith in the nation and its people and end up with faith in God? Could faith in the Church be a priori to faith in God?
And here is an earlier exchange in the same conversation:
- "'But didn't you tell me that if it were mathematically proved to you that truth was outside Christ, you would rather remain with Christ than with truth? Did you say that? Did you?'"
This last exchange is very similar to something the author wrote in a letter to a friend:
- "To believe that there is nothing more beautiful, more profound, more sympathetic, more reasonable, more manly and more perfect than Christ. And not only is there nothing but I tell myself with jealous love that there can be nothing. Besides, if anyone proved to me that Christ was outside the truth and it really was so that the truth was outside Christ, then I would prefer to remain with Christ, than with the truth." (from Sermon Illustrations: Dostoevsky)
The Horror of Abortion
Aborted baby's head left inside woman: Couple horrified to find face of child after returning home
[Thanks to A conservative blog for peace for the link.]
Aborted baby's head left inside woman: Couple horrified to find face of child after returning home
[Thanks to A conservative blog for peace for the link.]
Saturday, August 21, 2004
Deal Hudson Fallout
The Catholic Spectator has announced it will no longer provide links to articles from the National Catholic Reporter due to the latter's character assassination of Deal Hudson (see National Catholic Reporter articles removed). Good move, I say.
The Catholic Spectator has announced it will no longer provide links to articles from the National Catholic Reporter due to the latter's character assassination of Deal Hudson (see National Catholic Reporter articles removed). Good move, I say.
Phillipines News
Re: Church: "Two-child policy is anti-family"
When will the world realize that Malthus was wrong?
Sadly, even many Catholics don't adhere to the Church's teaching on contraception. My wife, who is pregnant with our second child (due next March), was asked by a Catholic woman yesterday why she hadn't used contraception!
Still, the teaching remains and will remain. It towers against the ethos of the Zeitgeist. It is a prophetic teaching; I know of at least one Protestant who joined the One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church because of her teaching on contraception. When I was worshipping in an Anglican congregation, I was scandalized to learn that that Communion had been the first to abandon Christian teaching on contraception in 1930. This encouraged me to become Catholic.
Here is the teaching:
Re: Church: "Two-child policy is anti-family"
When will the world realize that Malthus was wrong?
Sadly, even many Catholics don't adhere to the Church's teaching on contraception. My wife, who is pregnant with our second child (due next March), was asked by a Catholic woman yesterday why she hadn't used contraception!
Still, the teaching remains and will remain. It towers against the ethos of the Zeitgeist. It is a prophetic teaching; I know of at least one Protestant who joined the One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church because of her teaching on contraception. When I was worshipping in an Anglican congregation, I was scandalized to learn that that Communion had been the first to abandon Christian teaching on contraception in 1930. This encouraged me to become Catholic.
Here is the teaching:
Sidebar Changes
I've added some new media links to the sidebar, and also reduced the number of links to blogs. A full list of the members of St. Blog's Parish and The Korean Blog List can be found by clicking on the links that will be kept at the top of the page. If your blog has been deleted, please leave a comment or send an email, and I will restore it to its rightful place.
I've added some new media links to the sidebar, and also reduced the number of links to blogs. A full list of the members of St. Blog's Parish and The Korean Blog List can be found by clicking on the links that will be kept at the top of the page. If your blog has been deleted, please leave a comment or send an email, and I will restore it to its rightful place.
Good Questions
From St. Francis, Guide for a Balanced Ecology:
From St. Francis, Guide for a Balanced Ecology:
- "How is it possible to defend the environment and, consequently, life, and to be in favor of abortion? How can biodiversity and native species be protected while favoring a couple's external artificial fertilization?"
Deal Hudson's Mea Culpa
The subject line of his latest e-letter was "A Sad Disclosure of a Sadder Event."
The subject line of his latest e-letter was "A Sad Disclosure of a Sadder Event."
Today's Saint
Pope Saint Pius X
He referred to Modernism as the "the summation of all heresies" and denounced it in Pascendi Dominici Gregis - On the Doctrine of the Modernists.
He was also a defender of the downtrodden, as evidenced by his Lacrimabili Statu - On the Indians of South America.
Pope Saint Pius X
He referred to Modernism as the "the summation of all heresies" and denounced it in Pascendi Dominici Gregis - On the Doctrine of the Modernists.
He was also a defender of the downtrodden, as evidenced by his Lacrimabili Statu - On the Indians of South America.
Satchmo and the Holy Father
Tonight, I watched a DVD of the very moving and informative documentary The Wonderful World of Louis Armstrong (2001) and learned of Satchmo's 1949 private audience with Pope Pius XII, who had been a fan of Armstrong as a young priest. I tried to find some more information about the meeting of these two great men on the Internet, especialy a photo, but found only this: Louis' meeting with the Pope.
However, in my search, I learned that Lionel Hampton, who joined Louis Armstrong to play for Pope Pius XII, had as a teacher Saint Katharine Drexel (from MOTHER KATHARINE DREXEL: A TEACHER TO SOME, A SAINT TO MANY).
Tonight, I watched a DVD of the very moving and informative documentary The Wonderful World of Louis Armstrong (2001) and learned of Satchmo's 1949 private audience with Pope Pius XII, who had been a fan of Armstrong as a young priest. I tried to find some more information about the meeting of these two great men on the Internet, especialy a photo, but found only this: Louis' meeting with the Pope.
However, in my search, I learned that Lionel Hampton, who joined Louis Armstrong to play for Pope Pius XII, had as a teacher Saint Katharine Drexel (from MOTHER KATHARINE DREXEL: A TEACHER TO SOME, A SAINT TO MANY).
Catholic Media
Re: From Rome to the World: The Global Offensive of the Catholic Media
The above piece by the inimitable Sandro Magister is very optimistic in its desription of media that "are extremely faithful to the pope and the Church" and "are fighting hard against the prevailing culture." It also contains lots of useful links.
Re: From Rome to the World: The Global Offensive of the Catholic Media
The above piece by the inimitable Sandro Magister is very optimistic in its desription of media that "are extremely faithful to the pope and the Church" and "are fighting hard against the prevailing culture." It also contains lots of useful links.
Friday, August 20, 2004
Dostoevsky's Anti-Catholicsm
I did a search for the above terms, as I came across another very anti-Catholic passage in The Devils, which, according to its back cover, "has been both hailed as a grim prophecy of the Russian Revolution and denounced as the work of a reactionary renegade" (empasis added; I love that phrase).
There are of course the deservedly famous Legend of "The Grand Inquisitor" from The Brothers Karamazov and the even more virulent attack from The Idiot. Still, Dostoevsky has been an influence to Catholics as diverse as the anarchist Dorothy Day and the neo-conservative Fr. Richard Neuhaus. Somehow, reading Dostoevsky's attacks on the Catholic Church, I do not feel the least bit offended, as I would, say, reading a Jack Chick comic. It's not that Dostoevsky's famous flaws (his anti-Semitism, etc.) allow for his more controversial ideas to be easily dismissed; his anti-Catholicism, like all his ideas, is very challenging. Even quite interesting and thought-provoking is his idea that the Russians are a "God-bearing" people, that Christ's second-coming will take place in Russia, and that country will save mankind.
I was unable to find any real help in coming to grips with Fyodor Dostoevsky, so will continue to read and enjoy. In addition to coming across these two pages that are somewhat helpful, Dostoevsky Also Nods and Dostoevsky and the Fiery Word, I came across this:
I did a search for the above terms, as I came across another very anti-Catholic passage in The Devils, which, according to its back cover, "has been both hailed as a grim prophecy of the Russian Revolution and denounced as the work of a reactionary renegade" (empasis added; I love that phrase).
There are of course the deservedly famous Legend of "The Grand Inquisitor" from The Brothers Karamazov and the even more virulent attack from The Idiot. Still, Dostoevsky has been an influence to Catholics as diverse as the anarchist Dorothy Day and the neo-conservative Fr. Richard Neuhaus. Somehow, reading Dostoevsky's attacks on the Catholic Church, I do not feel the least bit offended, as I would, say, reading a Jack Chick comic. It's not that Dostoevsky's famous flaws (his anti-Semitism, etc.) allow for his more controversial ideas to be easily dismissed; his anti-Catholicism, like all his ideas, is very challenging. Even quite interesting and thought-provoking is his idea that the Russians are a "God-bearing" people, that Christ's second-coming will take place in Russia, and that country will save mankind.
I was unable to find any real help in coming to grips with Fyodor Dostoevsky, so will continue to read and enjoy. In addition to coming across these two pages that are somewhat helpful, Dostoevsky Also Nods and Dostoevsky and the Fiery Word, I came across this:
Karamazov". You are young, idealistic,
pure, and in training to be a monk. You see the
degrading pit your family is falling into, and
try hard to help them without falling in
yourself. However, you have struggles of your
own, including the death of an elderly friend,
a difficult younger woman you are attracted to,
and questions about God's purpose for you.
Still, you are one of Dostoyevsky's
"perfect men."
Which Dostoyevsky protagonist are you?
brought to you by Quizilla
"No one regrets my past mistakes more than I do." - Deal Hudson
Re: Bush Religion Adviser Quits Campaign Post
The report that brought Mr. Deal Hudson (of Crisis Magazine) down was nothing if not mean-spirited partisan character assassination (see The Real Deal: How a Philosophy Professor With a Checkered Past Became the Most Influential Catholic Layman in George W. Bush's Washington ). The National Catholic Reporter should be ashamed of itself. Ig I had a subscription, I'd cancel it. Here is Mr. Hudson's response: The Price of Politics.
Pray for Mr. Hudson in his dark night of the soul.
Re: Bush Religion Adviser Quits Campaign Post
The report that brought Mr. Deal Hudson (of Crisis Magazine) down was nothing if not mean-spirited partisan character assassination (see The Real Deal: How a Philosophy Professor With a Checkered Past Became the Most Influential Catholic Layman in George W. Bush's Washington ). The National Catholic Reporter should be ashamed of itself. Ig I had a subscription, I'd cancel it. Here is Mr. Hudson's response: The Price of Politics.
Pray for Mr. Hudson in his dark night of the soul.
Corporate Sponsorship
Anti-establishment OhmyNews International seems not to be above writing glowing endorsements of its corporate sponsors: POSCO To Scrap 100-Year-Old Furnace Technology: A groundbreaking new technology promises a cheaper and cleaner alternative in steel production.
Anti-establishment OhmyNews International seems not to be above writing glowing endorsements of its corporate sponsors: POSCO To Scrap 100-Year-Old Furnace Technology: A groundbreaking new technology promises a cheaper and cleaner alternative in steel production.
Red China Continues Clampdown on Religion
In Crackdown, China Shuts Buddhist Site and Seizes Catholic Priests
In Crackdown, China Shuts Buddhist Site and Seizes Catholic Priests
A View from the Democratic People's Republic of Canada
Re: Market changes hurting North Koreans
Capitalism is ruining another perfectly good socialist economy.
Re: Market changes hurting North Koreans
Capitalism is ruining another perfectly good socialist economy.
A View from al Jumhouryat al Islam al Canada
Re: Who's afraid of sharia?
It's a small step from multiculturalism to multilegalism.
Re: Who's afraid of sharia?
It's a small step from multiculturalism to multilegalism.
The Terrence J. Murphy Institute for Catholic Thought, Law and Public Policy
Institute making Catholic intellectual tradition more accessible
Institute making Catholic intellectual tradition more accessible
From Daejeon, South Korea
Asian bishop’s conference tackles issues of globalization and acculturation of Gospel
Asian bishop’s conference tackles issues of globalization and acculturation of Gospel
Thursday, August 19, 2004
Belief-O-Matic
Here are my results from the Belief-O-Matic quiz:
[Thanks to The Catholic Conservative for the link to the above quiz, and thanks to A Catholic Blog for Lovers for the link to the above blog.]
Here are my results from the Belief-O-Matic quiz:
- 1. Eastern Orthodox (100%)
2. Roman Catholic (100%)
3. Mainline to Conservative Christian/Protestant (85%)
4. Seventh Day Adventist (74%)
5. Orthodox Quaker (71%)
6. Orthodox Judaism (58%)
7. Hinduism (56%)
8. Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (Mormons) (52%)
9. Mainline to Liberal Christian Protestants (51%)
10. Islam (51%)
11. Jehovah's Witness (49%)
12. Sikhism (40%)
13. Ba Faith (32%)
14. Liberal Quakers (31%)
15. Jainism (28%)
16. Reform Judaism (26%)
17. Mahayana Buddhism (23%)
18. Christian Science (Church of Christ, Scientist) (22%)
19. Unitarian Universalism (22%)
20. Theravada Buddhism (22%)
21. Scientology (17%)
22. New Thought (16%)
23. Neo-Pagan (14%)
24. Nontheist (14%)
25. New Age (8%)
26. Secular Humanism (7%)
27. Taoism (4%)
[Thanks to The Catholic Conservative for the link to the above quiz, and thanks to A Catholic Blog for Lovers for the link to the above blog.]
Wednesday, August 18, 2004
JP2
From Entertainment Photos - AFP:
From Entertainment Photos - AFP:
Pope John Paul II delivered a strong message to protect life during open air mass at the shrine to the Virgin Mary in Lourdes, the highlight of a two-day visit which again saw his failing health let him down.
A Growing Church
Good news from the latest installment of KARL KEATING'S E-LETTER:
Good news from the latest installment of KARL KEATING'S E-LETTER:
- "'L'Osservatore Romano,' the Vatican newspaper, ran a chart showing how much and where the Church has been growing in the quarter-century ending in 2002. Today there are 1.07 billion Catholics in the world, up from 757 million in 1978. The Americas count for half of the total (North and South America are not distinguished in the chart), and Europe has about half the Catholics that the Americas have. The rest of the world has about as many as Europe has.
"What really is interesting is where the growth has been. The sick man has been Europe: only 5 percent growth in 25 years--not even keeping up with overall population growth. The winner is Africa, up 151 percent, from 55 million to 137 million. Next best is Asia, up 74 percent. The Americas increased by 46 percent.
"So much for the laity. What about priests? Again, Africa leads, with an increase of 73 percent. Asia is second again, with an increase of 65 percent. The Americas had an increase of only 1 percent, which at least was better than Europe, which saw a decline of 19 percent. If you think priests are spread thin here, take a trip across the Atlantic.
"There is a somewhat better situation regarding seminarians. Europe has seen an increase of 12 percent, which is a lot better than a decline of 19 percent! Africa leads with 76 percent more seminarians, and Asia saw a growth of 60 percent. The Americas are in third place, with 31 percent more seminarians than a decade ago."
Sins of the Father
Re: Uri Party chief under pressure over father's past
Shin Ki-nam is under fire for lying about his father's pro-Japanese activities, not for his father's pro-Japanese activities as such. Still, the controversy reminds us that in Asia it was (and still is in North Korea) customary to punish one's descendants for certain crimes.
Re: Uri Party chief under pressure over father's past
Shin Ki-nam is under fire for lying about his father's pro-Japanese activities, not for his father's pro-Japanese activities as such. Still, the controversy reminds us that in Asia it was (and still is in North Korea) customary to punish one's descendants for certain crimes.
Eighth Plenary Assembly of the Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences in Daejeon, South Korea
The crisis of family is the crisis of the world, Anglican Archbishop Says
The crisis of family is the crisis of the world, Anglican Archbishop Says
America's Unappreciated Art Form
Re: New Orleans Jazz Fest Will Go On
New Orleans Jazz survives only due of the patronage of Europeans and Japanese. Sad.
Re: New Orleans Jazz Fest Will Go On
New Orleans Jazz survives only due of the patronage of Europeans and Japanese. Sad.
From Canterbury to Africa
From Episcopalian Split Over Gay Bishop:
From Episcopalian Split Over Gay Bishop:
- "All Saints Episcopal Church in Long Beach and St. James Episcopal Church in Newport Beach... said they intended to place themselves under the jurisdiction of an Anglican bishop in Africa.
Pray for the Holy Father
Re: Pope's health seriously weakened - Belgian cardinal
It's been almost a year since similar reports that the Holy father "was nearring the end of his life" surfaced. I printed this Special Prayer for Pope John Paul II on October 6th of last year and have been praying it daily since, and urge all to do so as well.
Re: Pope's health seriously weakened - Belgian cardinal
It's been almost a year since similar reports that the Holy father "was nearring the end of his life" surfaced. I printed this Special Prayer for Pope John Paul II on October 6th of last year and have been praying it daily since, and urge all to do so as well.
EU
Re: Ratzinger asserts Vatican stand against Turkey EU membership
Re: Ratzinger asserts Vatican stand against Turkey EU membership
- "The Faith is Europe and Europe is the Faith." - Hilaire Belloc
Tuesday, August 17, 2004
Mark P. Shea on the Blessed Virgin
From Not Quite Catholic But Still Enjoying It!: Why Marian Dogma Matters So Much.
From Not Quite Catholic But Still Enjoying It!: Why Marian Dogma Matters So Much.
La Virgen de Guadalupe
Dogs
Gerard Serafin, of A Catholic Blog for Lovers, has just said good-bye to his beloved 17 1/2 year old Peke, Onion. He has offered this as a fitting tribute: Baron von Hugel and his beloved dogs.
Gerard Serafin, of A Catholic Blog for Lovers, has just said good-bye to his beloved 17 1/2 year old Peke, Onion. He has offered this as a fitting tribute: Baron von Hugel and his beloved dogs.
The Family
From The family: a pastoral challenge for the Church in Asia:
The 8th Assembly of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conference begins tomorrow in South Korea; its theme: “The Asian Family towards a Culture of Life”.
From The family: a pastoral challenge for the Church in Asia:
The 8th Assembly of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conference begins tomorrow in South Korea; its theme: “The Asian Family towards a Culture of Life”.
DPRK Terror Alert
Re: South Korea Warns of Possible North Terrorism
It's been years since I've heard this kind of story coming from the South. With the "Sunshine Policy," there has been an attempt in the South to paint the North in the best possible light. The return to this kind of honesty regarding the true nature of Kim Jong-il's regime is quite refreshing.
Re: South Korea Warns of Possible North Terrorism
It's been years since I've heard this kind of story coming from the South. With the "Sunshine Policy," there has been an attempt in the South to paint the North in the best possible light. The return to this kind of honesty regarding the true nature of Kim Jong-il's regime is quite refreshing.
Kali
Re: Malaysia court acquits 3 in ritual killing of American woman
Fortunately, I never encountered anything remotely as strange (or evil) when I lived in Malaysia.
Re: Malaysia court acquits 3 in ritual killing of American woman
Fortunately, I never encountered anything remotely as strange (or evil) when I lived in Malaysia.
Christopher Cuddy
An Internet friend of mine sent me an email about a young (20 years old!) up-and-coming Catholic convert apologist named Christopher Cuddy, who is also a Korean adoptee.
Mr. Cuddy runs the BLOG at the St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology.
His most recent article is SNIPPING CALVIN'S TULIP: A FORMER CALVINIST WHO CONVERTED TO THE CATHOLIC CHURCH DISCUSSES CALVIN'S THEOLOGICAL SYSTEM.
He also wrote the following very moving three-part series, Fallen Sons, Adopted Sons, and Justified Sons, which expains the Doctrine of Justification vis-à-vis his own life story as an orphan, a Calvinist, and a convert to Catholicism.
With the future of the Catholic Church in the hands of people like Mr. Cuddy, I will sleep well tonight.
An Internet friend of mine sent me an email about a young (20 years old!) up-and-coming Catholic convert apologist named Christopher Cuddy, who is also a Korean adoptee.
Mr. Cuddy runs the BLOG at the St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology.
His most recent article is SNIPPING CALVIN'S TULIP: A FORMER CALVINIST WHO CONVERTED TO THE CATHOLIC CHURCH DISCUSSES CALVIN'S THEOLOGICAL SYSTEM.
He also wrote the following very moving three-part series, Fallen Sons, Adopted Sons, and Justified Sons, which expains the Doctrine of Justification vis-à-vis his own life story as an orphan, a Calvinist, and a convert to Catholicism.
With the future of the Catholic Church in the hands of people like Mr. Cuddy, I will sleep well tonight.
My Father's Clean Bill of Health
My father's liver tests came back today A-OK. My father's good health is a surprise to all of us, given his love of a good drink and his four-pack-a-day smoking habit.
I'd like to thank all of you for your prayers, especially Andi Young, who left some kind comments on my original posting for a prayer request. Andi, whose blog is Ditch the raft, is an American Buddhist in Korea. His blog has done a lot to dispel the misconceptions I've carried about Western Buddhist converts; most of the ones I've met know very little about the religion and don't even attempt to practice it. Andi definitely knows his stuff. While it would be a lie to say I think he has made the correct choice in his religion, I can at least admire his sincerity.
Andi might be interested to know that my father was once a Buddhist. He was unchurched as a child, but became a Buddhist in San Francisco in the 1960s, not as a hippie, but as a draftee sent to that city as an MP to quell riots. His dog-tags even list his religion as such.
As a child, my mother, sister, and I began to attend the Lutheran church of the pastor who was our next door neighbor. My father later told me that he started to attend church because the pastor told him that I said my one wish was that my father would attend church (I was too young to remember that now).
My father is now and elder and a healing minister in his Lutheran church, while his son has crossed the Tiber and become a papist, an adherent to all sorts of Romish doctrines.
My father's liver tests came back today A-OK. My father's good health is a surprise to all of us, given his love of a good drink and his four-pack-a-day smoking habit.
I'd like to thank all of you for your prayers, especially Andi Young, who left some kind comments on my original posting for a prayer request. Andi, whose blog is Ditch the raft, is an American Buddhist in Korea. His blog has done a lot to dispel the misconceptions I've carried about Western Buddhist converts; most of the ones I've met know very little about the religion and don't even attempt to practice it. Andi definitely knows his stuff. While it would be a lie to say I think he has made the correct choice in his religion, I can at least admire his sincerity.
Andi might be interested to know that my father was once a Buddhist. He was unchurched as a child, but became a Buddhist in San Francisco in the 1960s, not as a hippie, but as a draftee sent to that city as an MP to quell riots. His dog-tags even list his religion as such.
As a child, my mother, sister, and I began to attend the Lutheran church of the pastor who was our next door neighbor. My father later told me that he started to attend church because the pastor told him that I said my one wish was that my father would attend church (I was too young to remember that now).
My father is now and elder and a healing minister in his Lutheran church, while his son has crossed the Tiber and become a papist, an adherent to all sorts of Romish doctrines.
Olympic Upset
Re: U.S. Men's Basketball Suffers Stunning Defeat
I greeted the above news with happiness not because I am anti-American, but because one the noblest traits of Americans is a support for underdogs.
Re: U.S. Men's Basketball Suffers Stunning Defeat
I greeted the above news with happiness not because I am anti-American, but because one the noblest traits of Americans is a support for underdogs.
Monday, August 16, 2004
Steel
Re: Posco: One Sharp Steelmaker
I was raised in the rust-belt and now live in Pohang, South Korea. The Pohang Iron and Steel, Co. (POSCO), which founded the university I work for, began to flourish just as Buffalo's Bethlehem Steel floundered, sending my hometown into an economic slump from which it has never recovered. It's hard to say what impact the former had on the latter, but it's clear Buffalo is a loser in the new global economy, while Pohang, for the time being at least, is a winner. South Korea has had a policy of economic nationalism; America has not.
Re: Posco: One Sharp Steelmaker
I was raised in the rust-belt and now live in Pohang, South Korea. The Pohang Iron and Steel, Co. (POSCO), which founded the university I work for, began to flourish just as Buffalo's Bethlehem Steel floundered, sending my hometown into an economic slump from which it has never recovered. It's hard to say what impact the former had on the latter, but it's clear Buffalo is a loser in the new global economy, while Pohang, for the time being at least, is a winner. South Korea has had a policy of economic nationalism; America has not.
Sunday, August 15, 2004
Requiescat in Pace
Re: Rick James laid to rest in Buffalo
The former choir-boy led a less than saintly life, but he was a fellow Buffalonian; his daughter attended my high school.
Re: Rick James laid to rest in Buffalo
The former choir-boy led a less than saintly life, but he was a fellow Buffalonian; his daughter attended my high school.
Saturday, August 14, 2004
Ambassador Keyes Speaks
From RenewAmerica.us:
Here's the audio: Fresh Air: Saturday - 08.14.2004
Here's the transcript: Alan Keyes on NPR's Fresh Air radio show
From RenewAmerica.us:
Here's the audio: Fresh Air: Saturday - 08.14.2004
Here's the transcript: Alan Keyes on NPR's Fresh Air radio show
Another Reason Why Alan Keyes Should be President
Ambassador Keyes, quoted in Keyes Wants to End Election of Senators:
Ambassador Keyes, quoted in Keyes Wants to End Election of Senators:
- "The balance is utterly destroyed when the senators are directly elected because the state government as such no longer plays any role in the deliberations at the federal level."
President Hugo Chávez, Mobocrat
Re: Venezuela's Fake Democrat
The article provides an illustration of Fareed Zakaria's premise from The Future of Freedom: Illiberal Democracy at Home and Abroad.
Re: Venezuela's Fake Democrat
The article provides an illustration of Fareed Zakaria's premise from The Future of Freedom: Illiberal Democracy at Home and Abroad.
Friday, August 13, 2004
News from Home
Re: Pope names new bishop for Buffalo diocese & New Bishop Comes to Buffalo
Congratulations, Bishop Edward U. Kmiec!
I sometimes wish I had been Catholic growing up in Buffalo, which due to its large population of descendants from Poland, Ireland, and Italy, is about 75% Catholic, compared to 25% for the rest of the country.
Re: Pope names new bishop for Buffalo diocese & New Bishop Comes to Buffalo
Congratulations, Bishop Edward U. Kmiec!
I sometimes wish I had been Catholic growing up in Buffalo, which due to its large population of descendants from Poland, Ireland, and Italy, is about 75% Catholic, compared to 25% for the rest of the country.
Thursday, August 12, 2004
Religion & Politics
Re: Bishops questionnaire criticized for seemingly supporting Democratic positions & New poll says practicing Catholics more likely to support Bush
Contrary to what many non-Catholics believe, the US Bishops are not a unified group of arch-conservatives. In fact, sadly, the opposite is often true. It is the faithful laity, by and large, who hold more conservative views on matters of faith and politics.
Re: Bishops questionnaire criticized for seemingly supporting Democratic positions & New poll says practicing Catholics more likely to support Bush
Contrary to what many non-Catholics believe, the US Bishops are not a unified group of arch-conservatives. In fact, sadly, the opposite is often true. It is the faithful laity, by and large, who hold more conservative views on matters of faith and politics.
Wednesday, August 11, 2004
Attention Evangelicals: Orthodox are Already Christians!
Re: Olympic evangelists target Greek Orthodox: Charismatics target Orthodox for conversion during Olympics
In general, I have a lot of respect for Evangelical Christians and other Protestants (having been raised a Lutheran myself). However, when Evangelicals attempt to "convert" Catholics and Orthodox, who persist in the Apostolic Faith as it has been handed down for the twenty centuries, it smacks of the absurd.
Who are these Evangelicals to think they have anything to offer the Orthodox?
Would they have the Orthodox give up the Divine Liturgy for insipid CCM (Contemporary Christian Music) that apes the latest American pop garbage and use electric guitars and drum-kits in worship?
Would they have the Orthodox give up The Jesus Prayer for Q.T. (quiet time)?
Would they have the Orthodox give up their Byzantine cathedrals for "home churches" or, worse yet, suburban American mega-churches complete with fitness centers and corporate fast-food franchises?
Would they have the Orthodox give up The Philokalia for translations of the "Prayer of Jabez" or the latest in the "Left Behind" series?
Would they have the Orthodox give up their centuries-old tradition of Theology for the "Gospel of Proseprity"?
Would they have the Orthodox give up their valid Sacraments and the Real Presence for an extra-biblical "personal relationship with Jesus"?
Re: Olympic evangelists target Greek Orthodox: Charismatics target Orthodox for conversion during Olympics
In general, I have a lot of respect for Evangelical Christians and other Protestants (having been raised a Lutheran myself). However, when Evangelicals attempt to "convert" Catholics and Orthodox, who persist in the Apostolic Faith as it has been handed down for the twenty centuries, it smacks of the absurd.
Who are these Evangelicals to think they have anything to offer the Orthodox?
Would they have the Orthodox give up the Divine Liturgy for insipid CCM (Contemporary Christian Music) that apes the latest American pop garbage and use electric guitars and drum-kits in worship?
Would they have the Orthodox give up The Jesus Prayer for Q.T. (quiet time)?
Would they have the Orthodox give up their Byzantine cathedrals for "home churches" or, worse yet, suburban American mega-churches complete with fitness centers and corporate fast-food franchises?
Would they have the Orthodox give up The Philokalia for translations of the "Prayer of Jabez" or the latest in the "Left Behind" series?
Would they have the Orthodox give up their centuries-old tradition of Theology for the "Gospel of Proseprity"?
Would they have the Orthodox give up their valid Sacraments and the Real Presence for an extra-biblical "personal relationship with Jesus"?
- "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites, because you go round about the sea and the land to make one proselyte. And when he is made, you make him the child of hell twofold more than yourselves." Matthew 23:15 (Douay-Rheims)
Prayer Request
Please pray for my father, who goes in for liver tests on Friday (the results due back next week).
Please pray for my father, who goes in for liver tests on Friday (the results due back next week).
What I'm Listening To Right Now
earlyMusic.net Radio
You'll have to register to listen (it's free), but it's well worth it. The on-line radio station is run by the folks at earlyMusic.net.
earlyMusic.net Radio
You'll have to register to listen (it's free), but it's well worth it. The on-line radio station is run by the folks at earlyMusic.net.
A Children's Book
A few days back, weblog@orankay posted a review of a children's book entitled 한이네 동네이야기 ("Hani's Neighborhood Story" ISBN: 8972212830), including a link to the following flash presentation about the book, which shows a typical modern Korean cityscape: 진선i닷컴 - 한이네 동네 이야기.
A few days back, weblog@orankay posted a review of a children's book entitled 한이네 동네이야기 ("Hani's Neighborhood Story" ISBN: 8972212830), including a link to the following flash presentation about the book, which shows a typical modern Korean cityscape: 진선i닷컴 - 한이네 동네 이야기.
"Equality of Outcome"
Re: 'Korean society in egalitarian trap'
Korean society combines a strange mixture of egalitarianism and cut-throat competitiveness. I'd write more about this paradox if I could make any sense of it, but after seven years here still can't.
Re: 'Korean society in egalitarian trap'
Korean society combines a strange mixture of egalitarianism and cut-throat competitiveness. I'd write more about this paradox if I could make any sense of it, but after seven years here still can't.
Traditionalism Revisited
Serge at A conservative blog for peace picked up on my link yesterday to an article about Traditionalism called A moment in reverse and posted a detailed description of various Traditionalist manifestations called A Traditionalist movement.
I agree with Serge that what the author Mark Sedgwick calls "soft Traditionalism" (mentioning T.S. Eliot) is quite sane and profitable and that many of the fringe movements, while quite interesting and thought-provoking, are also quite wacko.
Serge at A conservative blog for peace picked up on my link yesterday to an article about Traditionalism called A moment in reverse and posted a detailed description of various Traditionalist manifestations called A Traditionalist movement.
I agree with Serge that what the author Mark Sedgwick calls "soft Traditionalism" (mentioning T.S. Eliot) is quite sane and profitable and that many of the fringe movements, while quite interesting and thought-provoking, are also quite wacko.
"Declinism"
Re: Summertime, and living is not easy for French racked with self-doubt
Once-great France, the First Daughter of the Church, seems to lead the West in its quagmire of self-doubt. Sad.
Re: Summertime, and living is not easy for French racked with self-doubt
Once-great France, the First Daughter of the Church, seems to lead the West in its quagmire of self-doubt. Sad.
Tuesday, August 10, 2004
Modesty
Re: Nigerian Catholics told to be modest
Once again, African Christians have something to teach global Christendom.
Re: Nigerian Catholics told to be modest
Once again, African Christians have something to teach global Christendom.
My Kind of Antiwar Site
Antiwar.com understands that a key to peace is an effective defense. Writing about the DPRK's missile threat to the US, Gordon Prather says this in Nodong No Joke?:
Antiwar.com understands that a key to peace is an effective defense. Writing about the DPRK's missile threat to the US, Gordon Prather says this in Nodong No Joke?:
- "Too bad we got rid of all our ABM nukes. With a heat-seeking bullet, a miss by a hundredth of a meter is as bad as a miss by a hundred meters. But, with a nuke, a hundred meters is close enough for government work."
At Least Some Culture of Life in Korea
Re: Religious leaders pray for the abolition of the death penalty
I applaud the stance these religious leaders have taken, but at the same time cannot understand why there is not more discussion of abortion in Korea. It's technically illegal here, but the law is not enforced. There are about the same number (or maybe more) of abortions per annun in South Korea as there are in the United States, a country with six times the population and where the atrocity is legally sanctioned. Sadly, I've heard very little about abortion in Korea, even from Catholics.
Re: Religious leaders pray for the abolition of the death penalty
I applaud the stance these religious leaders have taken, but at the same time cannot understand why there is not more discussion of abortion in Korea. It's technically illegal here, but the law is not enforced. There are about the same number (or maybe more) of abortions per annun in South Korea as there are in the United States, a country with six times the population and where the atrocity is legally sanctioned. Sadly, I've heard very little about abortion in Korea, even from Catholics.
12th Century Abbot Peter of Cluny on Islam
In Is Speaking Truth a Hate Crime?, we learn of Peter of Cluny, who in
After his study, he came to see "Islam not as a distinct religion but as a heresy of the Christian faith—with a little paganism thrown in," writing:
In Is Speaking Truth a Hate Crime?, we learn of Peter of Cluny, who in
- "1142... traveled to Toledo, Spain—recently "liberated" from Muslim rule—to research vast Islamic libraries confiscated by Christian troops. Knowing no Arabic himself, the abbot commissioned two men fluent in the language to translate four documents into Latin, one of these being the Qu'ran itself. In the interest of accuracy and fairness, Peter even hired a Muslim to aid the men in their work."
After his study, he came to see "Islam not as a distinct religion but as a heresy of the Christian faith—with a little paganism thrown in," writing:
- "[Mohammed] denies the Trinity with Sabellius, rejects the divinity of Christ with Nestorius, and he disavows the death of the Lord with Mani, although he does not deny his return to the heavens... With pagans however, he rejects baptism, does not accept the Christian sacrifice of the Mass, and he derides penance and all the rest of the sacraments of the Church."
Korean Cloner
Re: Support Due for Stem Cell Pioneer South Korea
I'm not at all happy that my taxes will go to support violations of Natural Law.
Re: Support Due for Stem Cell Pioneer South Korea
I'm not at all happy that my taxes will go to support violations of Natural Law.
Desperation in the ROK
Some poll results from Hopelessness and the Summer of 2004:
Some poll results from Hopelessness and the Summer of 2004:
"Seven out of 10 people (69.2 percent) answered 'We live without hopes' in a poll Korea Gallop recently conducted at the request of the Chosun Ilbo....
"[O]ne in three people of the Republic of Korea says he wishes to leave the country for good. Responses opting for 'I intend to emigrate if chances are given' reached 35.5 percent in the recent poll...
"More serious is that the percentage inclined to emigration is higher in young people, registering 47.5 percent with respondents in their 20s and 42 percent with those in their 30s."
Monday, August 09, 2004
Overseas Adoption
While I think the folks at Transracial Abuctees are taking "Identity Politics" to a bit of an extreme, and while I feel that adoptive parents should be commended, I agree with the gist of this Hankyoreh article:
Childless Koreans should adopt unwanted children here in Korea and the abortion industry in America and in Korea should be ended and those children saved be given to parents in their home countries. I say this realizing it will never happen.
While I think the folks at Transracial Abuctees are taking "Identity Politics" to a bit of an extreme, and while I feel that adoptive parents should be commended, I agree with the gist of this Hankyoreh article:
Childless Koreans should adopt unwanted children here in Korea and the abortion industry in America and in Korea should be ended and those children saved be given to parents in their home countries. I say this realizing it will never happen.
59 Years Ago Today
Mushroon Cloud over Nagasaki:
The Urakami Cathedral:
A Statue Blessed Virgin Mary at Ground Zero:
Mushroon Cloud over Nagasaki:
The Urakami Cathedral:
The largest Christian church in Asia at the time, it was used as the target for the A-bomb. Nagasaki had been the center of Catholicism in Japan since the 16th Century. More Christians were killed on that day than in four centuries of savage persecution. The Urakami Cathedral was completely destoyed but later rebuilt exactly as it had been.
A Statue Blessed Virgin Mary at Ground Zero:
Sancta Maria, Mater Dei, ora pro nobis peccatoribus nunc et in hora mortis nostrae.
Mr. Rumsfeld Compares Iraq to the Korean War
Re: Cost of Freedom for Iraq Similar to Bringing Democracy to Others
While he makes a good Wilsonian argument, it is nonetheless not America's calling to bring "democracy" to the world. [After all, the United States itself was not founded as a democracy but as a republic.]
Re: Cost of Freedom for Iraq Similar to Bringing Democracy to Others
While he makes a good Wilsonian argument, it is nonetheless not America's calling to bring "democracy" to the world. [After all, the United States itself was not founded as a democracy but as a republic.]
- "America does not go abroad in search of monsters to destroy. She is the well-wisher to the freedom and independence of all. She is the champion only of her own." - John Quincy Adams,1821
Majority of South Koreans: "We live without a hope."
69.1 Percent of Poll Respondents Unsatisfied with Life
69.1 Percent of Poll Respondents Unsatisfied with Life
Sunday, August 08, 2004
The Passion of the Christ: Songs
Scott Stapp, Lauryn Hill, P.O.D., MxPx Head Up 'Passion Of The Christ' LP, not to be confussed with The Passion of the Christ: Songs Inspired By
Scott Stapp, Lauryn Hill, P.O.D., MxPx Head Up 'Passion Of The Christ' LP, not to be confussed with The Passion of the Christ: Songs Inspired By
Lutheranism's Greatest Contribution to American Pop Culture
Re: Davey and Goliath to the rescue
Thye article suggests that the classic animated series might help to breathe new life into the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA):
I'm skeptical. "[W]hat is needed to turn around a mainline Protestant denomination in decline" is orthodoxy.
Re: Davey and Goliath to the rescue
Thye article suggests that the classic animated series might help to breathe new life into the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA):
- "There are lots of theories about what is needed to turn around a mainline Protestant denomination in decline, but few have ever thought the answer might be a clueless animated boy and his canine conscience. For the 5-million strong Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, whose membership is aging, Davey and Goliath may be the route to salvation."
I'm skeptical. "[W]hat is needed to turn around a mainline Protestant denomination in decline" is orthodoxy.
Saturday, August 07, 2004
What's wrong with this map?
The ancient kingdom of Goguryeo (or Koguryo), is causing a major upheavel between Korea and China, as both countries claim it as part of their history.
The Marmot's Hole provided a link to a Korean site (The Forgotten Glory of Koguryo) that contains this map:
The problem is that the kingdoms of Silla and Baikje are misplaced. Where's VANK when you need it?
The ancient kingdom of Goguryeo (or Koguryo), is causing a major upheavel between Korea and China, as both countries claim it as part of their history.
The Marmot's Hole provided a link to a Korean site (The Forgotten Glory of Koguryo) that contains this map:
The problem is that the kingdoms of Silla and Baikje are misplaced. Where's VANK when you need it?
Redeemed by Our Savior, I work out my salvation with fear and trembling in Pohang, South Korea, where I live with my wife, daughter, and son and teach English at a science and technology university. Baptized a Methodist and raised a Missouri Synod Lutheran in Buffalo, NY, I spent six years as a guest of the Anglican Communion before being received by the Grace of God into the One Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church on the Feast of Saint Andrew, my patron, anno domini 2002.
On this blog you will find the opinions of one Katolik Shinja (Catholic believer). On matters of Faith and Morals, I place myself in full obedience to Rome, and if I am in error, I beg the informed reader's correction. In all other matters, e.g. politics, economics, and culture, I seek guidance from my Catholic Faith and God-given reason, fully acknowledging that others may use the same to arrive at opinions radically different from my own.
This blogger's motto might be "I link, therefore I am." I have little interest in presenting original or novel ideas, or detailing the mundane events of my personal life, although I will do both from time to time. Rather, I aim to provide links to articles and ideas that I find interesting and that I think deserve a wider readership.
The Saviour of the World
Domine Iesu, dimitte nobis debita nostra, salva nos ab igne inferiori, perduc in caelum omnes animas, praesertim eas, quae misericordiae tuae maxime indigent.
Ave Maria
ìì´ì´ ê°ëíì ë§ë¦¬ìì¬ ê¸°ë»íìì! 주ê»ì í¨ê» ê³ìë ì¬ì¸ ì¤ì ë³µëìë©°, íì¤ì ìë¤ ìì ëí ë³µëìëë¤! ì²ì£¼ì ì±ëª¨ ë§ë¦¬ìì¬, ì´ì ì ì°ë¦¬ 죽ì ëì ì°ë¦¬ ì£ì¸ì ìíì¬ ë¹ì´ì£¼ìì. ìë©.
Saint Andrew Kim Taegon
O God, You have created all nations and You are their salvation. In the land of Korea Your call to Catholic faith formed a people of adoption, whose growth You nurtured by the blood of Andrew, Paul and their companions. Through their martyrdom and their intercession grant us strength that we too may remain faithful to your commandments even until death. Amen.
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"We have heard enough of liberty and the rights of man; it is high time to hear something of the duties of men and the rights of authority." -- Orestes Brownson (1803â1876)