Talking about the "things that matter most" on June 8
3:00 – Diagnosis Critical: The Urgent Threats Confronting Catholic Healthcare
The pressure for Catholic medical institutions and healthcare workers is mounting at an alarming rate as individuals struggle to uphold their faith in an industry that is confronting new bioethical dilemmas in a political and cultural environment that is increasingly hostile to traditional Catholic teachings. The choice to provide or not provide contraception, abortion, controversial fertility procedures, and even euthanasia have now begun to take on legal ramifications, as Catholic facilities seek to maintain their tax-exempt status and their eligibility for federal funding. It is an all too real danger that Catholic medical centers even those in communities where medical care is scarce may be forced to either shut down or provide immoral procedures, while tens of thousands of Catholic doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and other medical professionals could be forced to quit their jobs or violate their religious beliefs. Leonard J. Nelson III explores all the relevant topics.
3:40 – Spycraft: The Secret History of the CIA's Spytechs, from Communism to Al-Qaeda
Today's CIA is regularly criticized for emphasizing technology at the expense of human intelligence. In this history of the agency's Office of Technical Services, Robert Wallace, its former head, refutes the charge with exciting content and slam-bang style. From WWII through the Cold War and up to the present, he says, technical equipment—for clandestine audio surveillance, for example—has been an essential element of agent operations. In the post–Cold War information society, technology plays an even more significant role in fighting terrorism. Agents remain important, along with their traditional skills. Increasingly, however, they support clandestine technical operations, especially infiltrating and compromising computer networks. He is here to argue that employing and defending against sophisticated digital technology is the primary challenge facing U.S. intelligence in the 21st century.
4:00 – Kresta Comments
4:20 – Money, Greed, and God: Why Capitalism Is the Solution and Not the Problem
Does capitalism promote greed? Can a person follow Jesus' call to love others and also support capitalism? Was our recent economic crisis caused by flaws inherent to our free market system? Jay Richards presents a new approach to capitalism, revealing how it's fully consistent with Jesus’ teachings and the Christian tradition, while also showing why this system is our best bet for renewed economic vigor.
5:00 – Muhammad’s Birthday / The Truth About Muhammad: Founder of the World's Most Intolerant Religion
On this anniversary of Muhammad’s death, New York Times bestselling author Robert Spencer, provides a warts-and-all portrait of the Prophet of Islam and draws out what his life implies for reforming Islam and repulsing Islamic terrorists. Spencer relies solely on primary sources considered reliable by Muslims and evaluates modern biographies to show how Muhammad has been changed for Western audiences, lulling them into consoling but false conclusions.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Book List
Watch live video from Kresta In The Afternoon's channel on Justin.tv
Thank you for all of your wonderful suggestions.
-Scripture
http://www.newadvent.org/bible/
-Catechism of the Catholic Church
http://www.usccb.org/catechism/text/
-Bleak House by Charles Dickens
http://www.amazon.com/Bleak-Penguin-Classics-Charles-Dickens/dp/0141439726
-Christian Self-Mastery by Fr. Basil Maturin.
http://avemariaradio.onlinecatholicstore.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=9568
-Back to Virtue by Peter Kreeft
http://avemariaradio.onlinecatholicstore.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=2650
-The God Who Loves You by Peter Kreeft.
http://avemariaradio.onlinecatholicstore.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=9570
-Heretics by G.K. Chesterton
http://avemariaradio.onlinecatholicstore.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=2558
-Crime & Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky
http://avemariaradio.onlinecatholicstore.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=9572
-The Brothers Karamazov by Fyodor Dostoevsky
http://avemariaradio.onlinecatholicstore.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=9573
-Creative Tension: Essays on Science and Religion by Michael Heller
-Propaganda by Edward Bernays
-Brideshead Revisited by Evelyn Waugh
-The Religious Sense by Luigi Giussani
-Great Lion of God by Taylor Caldwell
-Dear and Glorious Physician, A Novel about Saint Luke by Taylor Caldwell
http://avemariaradio.onlinecatholicstore.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=8800
-Hinds' Feet on High Places by Hannah Hurnard
-La Carreta by Rene Marques
-Thus Saith the Lord: The Revolutionary Moral Vision of Isaiah and Jeremiah by Richard Rubenstein
-Beginning Your Marriage by John L. Thomas and Joan Wagner
-He Leadeth Me by Walter J. Ciszek and Daniel Flaherty
-Christian Courtship in an Oversexed World by Fr.Thomas G. Morrow
http://avemariaradio.onlinecatholicstore.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=3941
-Natural Rights and the Right to Choose by Hadley Arkes
-Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
-The Screwtape Letters by C. S. Lewis
-My Grandfather's Son by Clarence Thomas
http://avemariaradio.onlinecatholicstore.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=7879
-Father Elijah: An Apocalypse. by Michael O'Brien
http://avemariaradio.onlinecatholicstore.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=3407
-30 Ways in 30 Days to Save Your Family by Rebecca Hagelin
http://avemariaradio.onlinecatholicstore.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=9177
-Liberty and Tyranny: A Conservative Manifesto by Mark Levin
-The Robe by Lloyd C. Douglas
http://www.amazon.com/Robe-Lloyd-C-Douglas/dp/0395957753
-Mary, Mother of the Son 3 book set by Mark Shea
http://www.mark-shea.com/books.html
-Prayer by Hans Urs Von Balthasar
-American Babylon by Richard John Neuhaus
http://avemariaradio.onlinecatholicstore.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=9549
-Theology Of Prayer Father John A Hardon SJ
-Return to Rome by Francis Beckwith
http://avemariaradio.onlinecatholicstore.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=8841
-The writings of Elisabeth Leseur
http://avemariaradio.onlinecatholicstore.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=4679
-Above All, Love: Reflections on the Greatest Commandment by Julie Ackerman Link
-Modern Physics and Ancient Faith by Stephen Barr
-Four Witnesses by Rod Bennett
http://avemariaradio.onlinecatholicstore.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=743
-Life on the Mississippi by Mark Twain
-Roughing It by Mark Twain
-Ecumenical Jihad by Peter Kreeft
-Slouching towards Gomorrah by Robert Bork
-Lord, have mercy by Scott Hahn
The Enemy at Home by Dinesh D'Souza
Theology for Beginners by Frank Sheed
Render Unto Ceasar by Chaput The Mystical City of God
The Mystical City of God by Fiscar Marison
http://www.amazon.com/Mystical-City-God-Divine-History/dp/0895558254/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1244662706&sr=8-2
Today on Kresta - June 3, 2009
Talking about the "things that matter most" on June 33:00 – Kresta Comments
3:40 – The Foundations of Religious Life: Revisiting the Vision
In keeping with the vision set forth in Vatican II, the Council of Major Superiors of Women Religious has maintained a more traditional form of religious life. While most religious orders are now facing marked decline in novitiates and the aging of their members, the communities of the CMSWR are experiencing growth on a worldwide scale. In this visionary manifesto, and on the heels of the Vatican’s Apostolic Visitation of Women’s Religious Orders, Sr. Mary Nika Schaumber is here to articulate a vision for the future of women religious, suggesting that their commitment to a more radical gospel-based life and ministry is what attracts young women to religious life.
4:00 – Pro-Life Movement to Blame for Tiller Killing?
A man has been shot to death -- an act of violence that everyone should abhor. No pro-lifer may kill as a protest against abortion. But in the flood of blame against pro-lifers on the slaying of Dr. Tiller comes one that stands out for its crass stupidity and bumptious irresponsibility. Catholic Democrats, one of the many groups providing Catholic cover for President Barack Obama, is headed by Dr. Patrick Whalen. Catholic Democrats issued a statement about Tiller's death referencing Deal Hudson, Fr. Frank Pavone, and George Weigel; Whelan then makes the following comment: "It is not enough to denounce violence. Any Catholic public figure who insults someone else with the 'pro-abortion' label is actually hurting the anti-abortion cause by obstructing common ground solutions, sowing division within our Church, and contributing to the penchant toward violence that was on display again today. Whalen is here to defend those comments.
4:20 – Arkansas' Lone Jihadist: How Alone Is He?
In an armed attack outside the Army-Navy Career Center which handles recruiting, in Little Rock, AR, Abdulhakim Mujahid Muhammad, 23, killed one soldier wounded another. Muhammad, an American citizen who is a convert to Islam and previously known as Carlos Bledsoe, already had been under investigation by the FBI at the time of the shootings. He had traveled to Yemen, received indoctrination from radical clerics, according to a watch group, and possessed a false Somali passport. He was charged in the death of Pvt. William Long, 23, while a prosecutor said Muhammad admitted shooting Long and another soldier "because of what they had done to Muslims in the past." Here we have a new case of an individual U.S. citizen who committed an act of terror in the name of his ideology (Government officials have called it inaccurately a "political and religious motive") against U.S. military targets. Do we see a pattern here? Are we witnessing a repeat and copycats? Dr. Walid Phares is with us.
4:40 – Kresta Comments - Ten Terms NOT Useful to Engaging Muslims Worldwide
As President Obama considers his speeches in the Muslim majority Middle East this week, and as the U.S. national security establishment reviews its foreign policy and public diplomacy, we look at words and concepts that are not useful in building relationships with the Muslim world. Obviously, we are not going to throw out all of these terms, nor should we. But we do need to be very careful about how we use them, and in what context.
5:00 – Direct to my Desk - Building a Summer Reading List
As you prepare for vacations, and the dog days of summer, many are looking for that perfect book to take to the beach, the cabin, or the sofa. We ask for your recommendations and Al has some of his own.
Joe Scheidler: Notorious Abortionist Gunned Down in Church
The June 1st interview with Joe Scheidler talking about the murder of abortionist George Tiller was worth highlighting.
Watch live video from Kresta In The Afternoon's channel on Justin.tv
-Joe shared a taxi cab with George Tiller on the way to an abortion conference. Joe was going to the conference in order to learn more about how abortionists conducted their practices and George thought that Joe was a fellow abortionist.
-Tiller may have been losing his license to preform abortions within a month.
-There hadn't been any violent acts committed against abortion providers since 1998. Recent polls have shown that more people than ever were considering themselves to be pro life. The murder of George Tiller has become new ammunition for the pro abortion movement to paint the pro life movement as terrorists.
-Tiller had an "abortion liturgy". They would baptize the children that he would abort and even take footprints of the aborted child and give it to the parents.
-Scott Roeder, Tiller's assasin
-Dr. Warren Hern
Hear what Pro Life Leader Joe Scheidler has to say about the events and people connected to this tragedy in the interview below.
Watch live video from Kresta In The Afternoon's channel on Justin.tv
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Today on Kresta - June 2, 2009
Talking about the "things that matter most" on June 23:00 – Kresta Comments
3:20 – Who Was Adam? A Creation Model Approach to the Origin of Man
Who Was Adam? The authors of this study are distressed that many people, from scientists to judges, define creationism as a religious view rather than a legitimate scientific theory, and they attempt to redeem it as a science. Early on, they state they define a creationist as "anyone who believes in the existence of a supernatural Creator," but it quickly becomes clear that in fact they mean something much narrower. Their model posits that God created the first people, Adam and Eve; that humanity began in a specific geographic location, the Garden of Eden; and that this creation took place between 10,000 and 100,000 years ago. They then marshal evidence from various disciplines, such as archaeology and astronomy, to support their views. We talk to Dr. Fuzz Rana about Adam, creation and evolution.
4:00 – Kresta Comments
4:20 – When the Spirit Comes in Power
One of the most neglected feasts of the Church was this past weekend , and that of course is Pentecost! The release of the Holy Spirit upon His Church. We discuss what happens when the Spirit comes in power. Peter Herbeck is with us.
5:00 – Embryo Adoption. Why Not?
With the current battle over embryonic stem cell research and a recent flurry of articles on embryo adoption in the National Catholic Register, we take the opportunity to examine the Catholic moral principles at play and look at what the Church has to say on this controversial matter of bioethics. Dr. Monica Miller is our guest.
Kmiec, Robert George debate (Re-Post)
This is a re-post of an earlier one that was not working properly. You should be able to view the video now.
“Are we as Catholics expected to sit on the sidelines aloof with the truth talking to ourselves,” said Professor Kmiec, “or are we to engage our fellow citizens and offer that faith? The 2008 election was very much a test of that.”
It's over an hour long, but very informative. Certainly worth watching if you have the time.
Due to the length of the video, it takes a few seconds to pre-load.
Monday, June 1, 2009
Today on Kresta - June 1, 2009
Talking about the "things that matter most" on June 13:00 – Kresta Comments – Trying to Justify Murder
Years ago, Al debated the defrocked and excommunicated Presbyterian pastor Paul Hill (1954-2003) over the question of whether or not killing abortionists was justifiable homicide. In short, Al argued “Absolutely not.” Hill argued that he was obligated to protect the unborn by killing their murderers and thus preventing further abortions. Paul Hill wasn’t insane or even “mean.” Rather he was in the grip of an abbreviated logic. He reasoned that since abortionists kill children then by killing abortionists we will save children. When it was clear that pro-life people dismissed his argument as grossly inconsistent with the moral law, he went out and killed an abortionist and his escort and wounded the abortionist’s wife. Paul Hill was arrested, convicted and, in September 2003, executed for their murder. Al comments on the Tiller killing.
3:20 – Notorious Abortionist Gunned Down in Church
George Tiller, one of the nation's few providers of late-term abortions despite decades of protests and attacks, was shot and killed Sunday in a church where he was serving as an usher. The gunman fled, but a 51-year-old suspect was detained some 170 miles away in suburban Kansas City three hours after the shooting. We have talked with Joe Scheidler many times about “Tiller the baby killer.” He joins us again.
3:40 – The Hippocratic Oath and the Florence Nightingale Pledge
The Hippocratic Oath is an oath traditionally taken by physicians pertaining to the ethical practice of medicine. It is widely believed that the oath was written by Hippocrates, the father of western medicine, in the 4th century BC. The phrase "Above all, do no harm" is the most famous part of the oath. We talk with Dr. Rusty Chavey about the history and full meaning of the oath.
4:00 – Government Run Motors – Gov’t Now Owns GM
GM filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy this morning, marking the humbling of an American icon that once dominated the global car industry and setting up a high-stakes gamble for U.S. taxpayers. The filing marks the climax of a lengthy debate over the auto maker's future after it sought a bailout from the U.S. government in December to stay alive. In the end, GM couldn't complete its restructuring out of court and filed for bankruptcy-court protection to get billions more in aid from U.S. taxpayers. The question now facing 56,000 auto workers, 3,600 GM dealers and the Obama administration: Will it work? The U.S. government has agreed to provide GM with another $30 billion in aid, in addition to the $20 billion the auto maker has already borrowed, to see it through its restructuring and exit from bankruptcy protection. In return, the government will get a controlling stake in the company. George Schwartz is here to analyze.
4:20 – The Darwin Myth: The Life and Lies of Charles Darwin
In the 150 years since the publication of Origin of Species, Charles Darwin's reputation has wavered between two extremes--secular saint or heretic. But the truth is much more complicated than that. While he was by all accounts a kind and virtuous man, Darwin's theory of evolution and natural selection has been one of the most destructive ideas in history. So who is Charles Darwin? What did he really believe--and what did his research really prove? In The Darwin Myth: The Life and Lies of Charles Darwin, Benjamin Wiker cuts through the myths and misconceptions and sets the record straight. Taking a "warts and all" approach, Wiker offers a critical examination of Darwin's theories as well as the scientific, social, and religious implications of his life and work.
5:00 – Direct to My Desk
Tiller: A Sampling of Response
Fr. Frank Pavone - National Director of Priests for Life
"I am saddened to hear of the killing of George Tiller this morning. At this point, we do not know the motives of this act, or who is behind it, whether an angry post- abortive man or woman, or a misguided activist, or an enemy within the abortion industry, or a political enemy frustrated with the way Tiller has escaped prosecution. We should not jump to conclusions or rush to judgment." More...
Dr. Monica Miller - Director of Citizens for a Pro-life Society
“It is certainly possible that even those who are unjust may be victims of injustice themselves. There are many non-violent ways to protect unborn children, short of taking the life of the abortionist—and those means must be used. Anyone who kills an abortionist fails to understand the nature of legalized abortion.” More...
President Barak Obama
"I am shocked and outraged by the murder of Dr. George Tiller as he attended church services this morning. However profound our differences as Americans over difficult issues such as abortion, they cannot be resolved by heinous acts of violence."
David Bereit - National Director of 40 Days for Life
"As a nationwide organization dedicated to peaceful and prayerful solutions to the crisis of abortion, 40 Days for Life is shocked and dismayed by the shooting death of Kansas abortion provider George Tiller. Such violence against a fellow human being is never justified, and 40 Days for Life condemns this senseless act. We encourage people of faith to join in prayer for all those affected by this unconscionable action." More...
Cecile Richards - President of the Planned Parenthood Federation of America
"The entire Planned Parenthood family is deeply saddened by the murder of Dr. George Tiller. Dr. Tiller was the epitome of high quality medical care underscored by deep compassion for his patients. He was continually harassed by abortion opponents for much of his career - his clinic was burned down, he was shot by a health center protestor, and he was recently targeted for investigation only to be acquitted by a jury just a few months ago. None of this stopped George Tiller from his commitment to providing women and their families with compassionate care that others were unwilling to offer." More...
Marjorie Dannenfelser - President of the Susan B. Anthony List
"The Susan B. Anthony List condemns this anti-life act in the strongest of terms. The heart of the pro-life movement is one founded in love. Without this driving powerful center no justice can possibly be achieved." More...
Shaun Kenney - Executive Director of American Life League
"Leaders within the pro-life movement often discuss justice in connection with our mission to end the tragedy of abortion. Today, Dr. George Tiller's life ended in an act defying those principles." More...
Dr. Gary Cass - Christian Anti-Defamation Commission.
"The Christian Anti- Defamation Commission will not allow pro- abortionists or their accomplices in the media to exploit the cowardly act of one misguided individual in order to defame millions of peaceful pro-lifers." More...
Kristan Hawkins - National Director of Students for Life
"Students for Life of America is shocked to hear about the murder of George Tiller. SFLA is a peaceful organization, and we do not condone today's unfortunate events. We will keep Mr. Tiller's family in our thoughts and prayers." More...
Walter Hoye - Issues4Life Foundation
"The murder of Dr. George Tiller is reprehensible! There is nothing “Pro-Life” or “Christian” about murder and the hatred that fuels it. We are in mourning." More...
Nancy Keenan - President of NARAL Pro-Choice America
“On behalf of NARAL Pro-Choice America, our prayers and thoughts are with Dr. Tiller’s family and friends at this moment, a moment that fills us with immeasurable shock and deep sadness.
Dr. Tiller’s murder will send a chill down the spines of the brave and courageous providers and other professionals who are part of reproductive-health centers that serve women across this country. We want them to know that they have our support as they move forward in providing these essential services in the aftermath of the shocking news from Wichita." More...
"I am saddened to hear of the killing of George Tiller this morning. At this point, we do not know the motives of this act, or who is behind it, whether an angry post- abortive man or woman, or a misguided activist, or an enemy within the abortion industry, or a political enemy frustrated with the way Tiller has escaped prosecution. We should not jump to conclusions or rush to judgment." More...
Dr. Monica Miller - Director of Citizens for a Pro-life Society
“It is certainly possible that even those who are unjust may be victims of injustice themselves. There are many non-violent ways to protect unborn children, short of taking the life of the abortionist—and those means must be used. Anyone who kills an abortionist fails to understand the nature of legalized abortion.” More...
President Barak Obama
"I am shocked and outraged by the murder of Dr. George Tiller as he attended church services this morning. However profound our differences as Americans over difficult issues such as abortion, they cannot be resolved by heinous acts of violence."
David Bereit - National Director of 40 Days for Life
"As a nationwide organization dedicated to peaceful and prayerful solutions to the crisis of abortion, 40 Days for Life is shocked and dismayed by the shooting death of Kansas abortion provider George Tiller. Such violence against a fellow human being is never justified, and 40 Days for Life condemns this senseless act. We encourage people of faith to join in prayer for all those affected by this unconscionable action." More...
Cecile Richards - President of the Planned Parenthood Federation of America
"The entire Planned Parenthood family is deeply saddened by the murder of Dr. George Tiller. Dr. Tiller was the epitome of high quality medical care underscored by deep compassion for his patients. He was continually harassed by abortion opponents for much of his career - his clinic was burned down, he was shot by a health center protestor, and he was recently targeted for investigation only to be acquitted by a jury just a few months ago. None of this stopped George Tiller from his commitment to providing women and their families with compassionate care that others were unwilling to offer." More...
Marjorie Dannenfelser - President of the Susan B. Anthony List
"The Susan B. Anthony List condemns this anti-life act in the strongest of terms. The heart of the pro-life movement is one founded in love. Without this driving powerful center no justice can possibly be achieved." More...
Shaun Kenney - Executive Director of American Life League
"Leaders within the pro-life movement often discuss justice in connection with our mission to end the tragedy of abortion. Today, Dr. George Tiller's life ended in an act defying those principles." More...
Dr. Gary Cass - Christian Anti-Defamation Commission.
"The Christian Anti- Defamation Commission will not allow pro- abortionists or their accomplices in the media to exploit the cowardly act of one misguided individual in order to defame millions of peaceful pro-lifers." More...
Kristan Hawkins - National Director of Students for Life
"Students for Life of America is shocked to hear about the murder of George Tiller. SFLA is a peaceful organization, and we do not condone today's unfortunate events. We will keep Mr. Tiller's family in our thoughts and prayers." More...
Walter Hoye - Issues4Life Foundation
"The murder of Dr. George Tiller is reprehensible! There is nothing “Pro-Life” or “Christian” about murder and the hatred that fuels it. We are in mourning." More...
Nancy Keenan - President of NARAL Pro-Choice America
“On behalf of NARAL Pro-Choice America, our prayers and thoughts are with Dr. Tiller’s family and friends at this moment, a moment that fills us with immeasurable shock and deep sadness.
Dr. Tiller’s murder will send a chill down the spines of the brave and courageous providers and other professionals who are part of reproductive-health centers that serve women across this country. We want them to know that they have our support as they move forward in providing these essential services in the aftermath of the shocking news from Wichita." More...
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Kresta Commentary: Leading Abortionist Murdered
Leading Abortionist Murdered
May 31, 2009
Al Kresta
Years ago, I debated the defrocked and excommunicated Presbyterian pastor Paul Hill (1954-2003) over the question of whether or not killing abortionists was justifiable homicide. In short, I argued “Absolutely not.” He argued that he was obligated to protect the unborn by killing their murderers and thus preventing further abortions.
Paul Hill wasn’t insane or even “mean.” Rather he was in the grip of an abbreviated logic. He reasoned that since abortionists kill children then by killing abortionists we will save children.
As a moral theologian and pastor, Hill was wrong and convinced almost nobody. When it was clear that pro-life people dismissed his argument as grossly inconsistent with the moral law, he went out and killed an abortionist and his escort and wounded the abortionist’s wife. Paul Hill was arrested, convicted and, in September 2003, executed for their murder. He never publicly repented and perished in his folly imagining himself a martyr and leader: “While most Christians firmly profess the duty to defend born children with force…most of these professors have neglected the duty to similarly defend the unborn…I was certain that if I took my stand at this point, others would join with me, and the Lord would eventually bring about a great victory.” As an activist and prophet, he was also dead wrong.
He failed to see two obvious truths:
- There are many non-violent ways to stop abortions.
- Every act of abortion has multiple accomplices. Each accomplice bears differing degrees of culpability. Why should Hill’s logic stop at the abortionist and not with others who make his work possible including local law enforcement that protects clinics?
How about the one person most obviously standing between the abortionist and the preborn: the mother. Mothers call for abortions. Tiller provided them a service for a fee. As long as mothers want to get rid of a pregnancy, there will be abortions. As long as men want sex without relationships, there will be prostitutes. Both advocates for abortion and prostitution are willing to take the cash and call it empowerment for women. This doesn’t mean the law should permit either abortion or prostitution. It does recognize that we won’t get rid of depersonalized sex by killing prostitutes and we won’t end abortion by eliminating abortionists.
Absurdity as well as tragedy stain his position. Yes, abortion is a form of child-murder. But it is murder carried out with the consent of the mother uninformed as she may be. Hill, to be consistent, should have advocated the use of proportionate force to stop abortions. Following his twisted logic, he should have forcibly stopped mothers from entering clinics and, when persuasion finally failed, anesthetized her and removed the innocent child by C-section. After all, isn’t this a more justifiable use of force? Nobody gets killed. Of course, this is morally repulsive.
Killing abortionists doesn’t save lives. It takes lives. It is murder. It usurps the authority of the state by pretending to mete out justice to evildoers. It is vigilantism and diminishes respect for the rule of law.
If the moral arguments aren’t clear then the public relations argument should be. While the law needn’t permit mothers to kill their children, neither is the law enough to make mothers want to avoid abortion. For that, it is necessary to turn the heart of the mother toward her child. Paul Hill turned hearts in the wrong direction. He created unnecessary sympathy for the pro-abortion regime.
In all likelihood Tiller’s killer has not prevented the death of children. More likely, he has further hardened America’s heart against the unborn (who people can’t see) by generating sympathy for abortionists (who people can see). His act distorts the truth because it shows blood on the wrong hands. Good heavens, he was shot to death ushering in his church. Absurd.
As Fr. Pavone has written: “At this point, we do not know the motives of this act, or who is behind it, whether an angry post- abortive man or woman, or a misguided activist, or an enemy within the abortion industry, or a political enemy frustrated with the way Tiller has escaped prosecution. We should not jump to conclusions or rush to judgment.” I agree. Regardless of motive, however, Tiller’s death is an unjustifiable act of murder. His widow is bereft. His soul needs our prayers for the mercy he thought he was showing mothers but denying to their children. Tiller had mugs inscribed with the motto: “Trust women.” As an active churchgoer, it should have been “Trust God.”
Friday, May 29, 2009
Fr. Cutie Leaves Catholic Priesthood
Rev. Alberto Cutié, aka "Fr. Oprah", the Catholic priest from Miami who has been caught in a longtime affair, has now joined the Episcopal Church. Apparently he didn't even notify his bishop. This from the New York Times:
A Roman Catholic priest who admitted this month that he was torn between two loves -- his church and his girlfriend -- announced his choice on Thursday.
The priest, the Rev. Alberto Cutié, said he was joining the Episcopal Church and planning to marry his girlfriend of two years, who was also becoming an Episcopalian....
"With God's help," [Cutié] added, "I hope to continue priestly ministry and service in my new spiritual home."
To borrow from Brian St. Paul at Inside Catholic - "Whatever one thinks of a married priesthood, Rev. Cutié made a vow before God to remain celibate. Once caught in his infidelity, he brushed aside the correction of the Church he'd formerly claimed to love, and abandoned her for something else. That should be a warning to the future Mrs. Cutié."
Justified warning.
A Roman Catholic priest who admitted this month that he was torn between two loves -- his church and his girlfriend -- announced his choice on Thursday.
The priest, the Rev. Alberto Cutié, said he was joining the Episcopal Church and planning to marry his girlfriend of two years, who was also becoming an Episcopalian....
"With God's help," [Cutié] added, "I hope to continue priestly ministry and service in my new spiritual home."
To borrow from Brian St. Paul at Inside Catholic - "Whatever one thinks of a married priesthood, Rev. Cutié made a vow before God to remain celibate. Once caught in his infidelity, he brushed aside the correction of the Church he'd formerly claimed to love, and abandoned her for something else. That should be a warning to the future Mrs. Cutié."
Justified warning.
Today on Kresta - May 29, 2009
Talking about the "things that matter most" on May 293:00 – Holy Sex
Common wisdom portrays sex and the Church to be at odds, yet studies show that Catholics have better sex, and more often. In his witty, frank, and refreshingly orthodox way, Dr. Greg Popcak draws from the beautiful truths of Catholic teaching to show people of all faiths about rich and satisfying sexuality. Holy Sex! A Catholic Guide to Toe-Curling, Mind-Blowing, Infallible Loving
3:40 – Kresta Comments – Preparing Our Hearts for Pentecost Weekend
4:00 – Two of the Big Three in Bankruptcy – Will GM Stay in Detroit?
The US government would own 72.5 percent of General Motors under a proposed bankruptcy reorganization that now has support of GM bondholders. The US Treasury agreed to the plan to create a new company that buys the assets of the automaker and that bondholders who had rejected an earlier proposal "support the economic terms" of the new plan. US Congressman Thaddeus McCotter (R- MI) is here to discuss the bankruptcy and whether GM will stay in Detroit.
4:20 – The Apostle of Common Sense has a birthday
Today is the birthday of G.K. Chesterton, the apostle of common sense. Chesterton expert, President and co-founder of the American Chesterton Society, and author of multiple books on Chesterton – Dale Ahlquist joins us. Also with us prolific biographer Joseph Pearce, author of Wisdom and Innocence: A Life of G.K. Chesterton
5:00 – Original Sin: A Cultural History
Alan Jacobs introduces us to the world of original sin, which he describes as not only a profound idea, but a necessary one. Replete with examples drawn from a number of different cultural expressions, including literature, film, and philosophy, he introduces us to the complexity of explaining how human beings act evilly toward one another. Original Sin: A Cultural History
5:40 – Disney’s Up
What is Up? It is a love story. A tragedy. A soaring fantasy, and a surreal animated comedy. A three-hankie weepie and a cliffhanging thriller. A cross-generational odd-couple buddy movie; a story of man and dog. A tale of sharply observed melancholy truths and whimsically unfettered nonsense. It’s Disney’s latest animated release and it is in theaters today. Steven Greydanus has the review.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Today on Kresta - May 27, 2009
Talking about the "things that matter most" on May 27
Live From the Religious Booksellers Trade Exhibit in Chicago
3:00 –Kresta Comments on Pentecost
3:40 – The Beatitudes for Children
When it comes to growing closer to God, kids (and adults) have no better teacher than Jesus. His eight Beatitudes are a positive, proactive guide for kids to love and serve the Lord as they mature in their understanding of their faith. In a great new book by Donna Piscitelli and Rosemary Gortler, each Beatitude is coupled with a kid-sized explanation that makes it easy for them to relate to these powerful statements. A family interaction page follows, featuring real-life applications that kids and their parents can participate in so the whole family is inspired to apply the Lord's instructions to their lives.
4:00 – Living the Lord’s Prayer
Father Albert Haase is here to follow the lines of the Lord's Prayer, showing how the ideas have been understood by great people of faith, including Francis of Assisi, Martin Luther, Therese of Lisieux and others, and revealing how God can use this ancient prayer to transform your very soul and teach you to walk in the way of a true disciple of Christ.
4:20 – The Catholic Vision for Living Like Jesus
Each of us is not only called to be a leader, but we are all leaders by default. How effective are you at making a positive impact on the people around you? Discover the power of Christ's personal and practical example and make a measurable difference in the lives of those around you -- at home, at work, in the community or in your parish. Transform your leadership style in light of Jesus' compelling combination of servant, steward, and shepherd. Dr. Owen Phelps will be our guest.
4:40 – What Your Money Means
Countless books tell you how to make money: only this one turns to the wisdom of the ages to illuminate for you the reasons you have money in the first place, and the role it’s meant to play in your life and in the lives of others. Here, American Catholic entrepreneur and philanthropist Frank Hanna introduces us to a lean, no-nonsense explanation of the meaning of money, and a guide for dealing with it constructively.
5:00 – Ancient Christian Devotional: A Year of Weekly Readings: Lectionary Cycle C
By allowing us to read holy writings with ancient eyes, the church fathers help us drink deeply from the only water that can give us true life. A follow-up to the previous Ancient Christian Devotional, which follows lectionary cycle A, this devotional guide follows lectionary cycle C, which begins in Advent 2009. This guide to prayer and reflection combines excerpts from the writings of the church fathers as found in the Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture with a simple structure for daily or weekly reading and prayer. Editor Cindy Crosby is with us.
5:20 – Continuing to Unravel Sonia Sotomayor
With Judge Sonia Sotomayor already facing questions over her 60 percent reversal rate, the Supreme Court could dump another problem into her lap next month if, as many legal analysts predict, the court overturns one of her rulings upholding a race-based employment decision. Meanwhile, Nancy Keenan at NARAL has sent an email to members expanding on her previous public statement on Obama's nominee to the Supreme Court. She also asks NARAL supporters to contact Senators demanding specific questions of the nominee on Roe. Paul Kengor is with us to discuss the nominee.
5:40 – Longing for God
Is your soul yearning to taste God's goodness? Offering a classical model of spiritual formation, Richard Foster introduces us to seven devotional paths illustrated by Thomas Merton, Blaise Pascal, Julian of Norwich, John Wesley, and other key Christian figures. Discover how to experience the spiritual life as journey, deepen your friendship with Jesus, and more.
Live From the Religious Booksellers Trade Exhibit in Chicago
3:00 –Kresta Comments on Pentecost
3:40 – The Beatitudes for Children
When it comes to growing closer to God, kids (and adults) have no better teacher than Jesus. His eight Beatitudes are a positive, proactive guide for kids to love and serve the Lord as they mature in their understanding of their faith. In a great new book by Donna Piscitelli and Rosemary Gortler, each Beatitude is coupled with a kid-sized explanation that makes it easy for them to relate to these powerful statements. A family interaction page follows, featuring real-life applications that kids and their parents can participate in so the whole family is inspired to apply the Lord's instructions to their lives.
4:00 – Living the Lord’s Prayer
Father Albert Haase is here to follow the lines of the Lord's Prayer, showing how the ideas have been understood by great people of faith, including Francis of Assisi, Martin Luther, Therese of Lisieux and others, and revealing how God can use this ancient prayer to transform your very soul and teach you to walk in the way of a true disciple of Christ.
4:20 – The Catholic Vision for Living Like Jesus
Each of us is not only called to be a leader, but we are all leaders by default. How effective are you at making a positive impact on the people around you? Discover the power of Christ's personal and practical example and make a measurable difference in the lives of those around you -- at home, at work, in the community or in your parish. Transform your leadership style in light of Jesus' compelling combination of servant, steward, and shepherd. Dr. Owen Phelps will be our guest.
4:40 – What Your Money Means
Countless books tell you how to make money: only this one turns to the wisdom of the ages to illuminate for you the reasons you have money in the first place, and the role it’s meant to play in your life and in the lives of others. Here, American Catholic entrepreneur and philanthropist Frank Hanna introduces us to a lean, no-nonsense explanation of the meaning of money, and a guide for dealing with it constructively.
5:00 – Ancient Christian Devotional: A Year of Weekly Readings: Lectionary Cycle C
By allowing us to read holy writings with ancient eyes, the church fathers help us drink deeply from the only water that can give us true life. A follow-up to the previous Ancient Christian Devotional, which follows lectionary cycle A, this devotional guide follows lectionary cycle C, which begins in Advent 2009. This guide to prayer and reflection combines excerpts from the writings of the church fathers as found in the Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture with a simple structure for daily or weekly reading and prayer. Editor Cindy Crosby is with us.
5:20 – Continuing to Unravel Sonia Sotomayor
With Judge Sonia Sotomayor already facing questions over her 60 percent reversal rate, the Supreme Court could dump another problem into her lap next month if, as many legal analysts predict, the court overturns one of her rulings upholding a race-based employment decision. Meanwhile, Nancy Keenan at NARAL has sent an email to members expanding on her previous public statement on Obama's nominee to the Supreme Court. She also asks NARAL supporters to contact Senators demanding specific questions of the nominee on Roe. Paul Kengor is with us to discuss the nominee.
5:40 – Longing for God
Is your soul yearning to taste God's goodness? Offering a classical model of spiritual formation, Richard Foster introduces us to seven devotional paths illustrated by Thomas Merton, Blaise Pascal, Julian of Norwich, John Wesley, and other key Christian figures. Discover how to experience the spiritual life as journey, deepen your friendship with Jesus, and more.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Prop 8 Upheld - But Gay Marriages Stand
From Larry King Live: Perez Hilton vs. National Organization for Marriage's Maggie Gallagher. This Debate took place before the Supreme Court decision upholding the will of the people in Prop 8. Worth your time to take a listen.
Today on Kresta - May 26, 2009
Talking about the "things that matter most" on May 263:00 – SCOTUS Gets a New Member
If confirmed by the Senate, Sonia Sotomayor will join Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg as the second woman on the current court, the third in history. She would succeed retiring Justice David Souter. She would be unlikely to alter the ideological balance of the court, since Souter generally sides with the liberals on key 5-4 rulings. But at 54, she is a generation younger that Souter, and liberal outside groups hope she will provide a counterpoint to some of the sharply worded conservative rulings. Paul Schenck has been working at the Supreme Court for years, and is here to offer his opinion.
3:20 – Sonia Sotomayor for Supreme Court
President Barack Obama chose federal appeals judge Sonia Sotomayor to become the nation's first Hispanic Supreme Court justice this morning, praising her as "an inspiring woman" with both the intellect and compassion to interpret the Constitution wisely. Obama said Sotomayor has more experience as a judge than any current member of the high court had when nominated, adding she has earned the "respect of colleagues on the bench, the admiration of many lawyers who argue cases in her court and the adoration of her clerks, who look to her as a mentor." However, that experience is being called into question by those opposed to the nomination with some calling it laughable to say she has a superior legal intellect. Robert George of Princeton University analyzes.
3:40 – North Korea test-fires 2 more missiles on the heels of a nuclear bomb test
North Korea reportedly tested two more short-range missiles today, a day after detonating a nuclear bomb underground, pushing the regime further into a confrontation with world powers despite the threat of U.N. action. Pyongyang also warned ships to stay away from waters off its western coast this week, a sign it may be gearing up for more missile tests, South Korea's coast guard said. How big of a threat is North Korea, and what can we do about the clearly rogue regime? Bruce Klinger of the Heritage Foundation has the answers.
4:00 – Will Republicans Mount an Opposition to Sotomayor?
Larry Klayman, the founder of conservative groups Freedom Watch and Judicial Watch, is praising -- in a qualified way -- the Sotomayor pick, calling the selection "a very prudent and wise decision from a far left liberal like Obama." Republican Judiciary Committee member Jon Kyl stressed the need for Republicans to have plenty of time to review Sotomayor's record. Kyl cited examples from past Supreme Court confirmations under a Republican-controlled Senate where the then-Democratic minority was afforded "ample time" to review the nominee. What will conservatives do with the nomination? Gary Bauer is here.
4:20 – CA Supreme Court Upholds Prop 8 – Also upholds gay “marriages” already performed
The California Supreme Court has upheld a voter-approved ban on same-sex marriage, but it also decided that the estimated 18,000 gay couples who tied the knot before the law took effect will stay wed. The decision rejected an argument by gay rights activists that the ban revised the California constitution's equal protection clause to such a dramatic degree that it first needed the Legislature's approval. We talk with Bill May of Catholics for the Common Good.
4:40 – The Pope in the Holy Land: A Review
In the final days of his Holy Land trip, Pope Benedict forcefully denounced the Holocaust, telling Israelis that the brutal extermination of Jews by the "godless" Nazi regime would never be forgotten or denied. His language appeared to lift Jewish disappointment over earlier remarks about the murder of six million Jews by his fellow Germans, which to Israelis had sounded cold and distant. Ending a Holy Land pilgrimage which he said made "powerful impressions" of hope and sadness, the 82-year-old pontiff also appealed for peace between Israelis and Palestinians so each can live in their own state, as trustful neighbors in security. We review the trip and ask what impact it will have. John Allen is our guest.
5:00 – Sotomayor and social issues
President Barack Obama called Judge Sonia Sotomayor at 9 p.m. on Memorial Day to say she was his pick for the Supreme Court. Sotomayor’s record on the divisive issue of abortion is murky. In 17 years on the federal bench, she has issued no opinions dealing directly with abortion rights. And in two cases dealing tangentially with the issue—involving anti-abortion protesters and the government right to limit abortion-related speech by foreign recipients of U.S. aid—the appeals court judge’s ruling favored abortion opponents. Still, anti-abortion forces are convinced that Obama would not nominate Sotomayor without being confident that she supports abortion rights. Hadley Arkes is here to look at her record.
5:20 – Victory for Prop 8 – Where Does the Fight Go From Here
The California Supreme Court upheld a voter-approved ban on same-sex marriage Tuesday, but it also decided that the estimated 18,000 gay couples who tied the knot before the law took effect will stay wed. The 6-1 decision rejected an argument by gay rights activists that the ban revised the California constitution's equal protection clause to such a dramatic degree that it first needed the Legislature's approval. The court said the people have a right, through the ballot box, to change their constitution. How big is this victory and where does the battle go from here? Maggie Gallagher has the answers.
5:40 – Kresta Comments
Thursday, May 21, 2009
2 Miles of Life
This video comes to us courtesy of pro life activist and leader Jill Stanek. You can easily count 450+ people in this video and it is reported that over 4,000 people showed up for the ND response prayer rally on campus. Compare what you see in this video with the images presented on mainstream networks and ask yourself if the MSM is trying to downplay the number of Americans who are actively Pro-Life.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Dan Brown's Religion
Self-styled spirituality has been on the rise since beatniks (yes, they existed) started cafeteria style Buddhism. Do-it-yourself religion may have reached crisis proportions according to recent polls. In a culture which prizes individualism and neglects history and tradition what can a Catholic expect? Human beings are made in the image and likeness of God; they will know Him or create some surrogate. Pity that so many refuse to ask if God has seen fit to reveal Himself, not just to me, but to the human race.
Ross Douthat makes sense of some of this in a recent NYT column.
Ross Douthat makes sense of some of this in a recent NYT column.
Talking about the "things that matter most" on May 19
Live From Minneapolis, MN
3:00 – Scientists Unveil the “Missing Link” in NY
Scientists have unveiled a 47-million-year-old fossilised skeleton of a monkey hailed as the missing link in human evolution. The search for a direct connection between humans and the rest of the animal kingdom has taken 200 years - but it was presented to the world today at a special news conference in New York. The discovery of the 95%-complete 'lemur monkey' - dubbed Ida - is described by experts as the "eighth wonder of the world".They say its impact on the world of palaeontology will be "somewhat like an asteroid falling down to Earth". That’s how it’s being reported. We get a check on reality from Jonathan Wells of the Discovery Institute.
3:30 – A History of the Search for the “Missing Link”
We continue our discussion of the “missing link” by taking a survey of the history of the elusive search for a link to “prove” Darwinian evolution. Edward Larson won the 1998 Pulitzer Prize for History for his book Summer for the Gods: The Scopes Trial and America's Continuing Debate Over Science and Religion and he is with us to look at this story and it’s significance in the evolution debate.
4:00 – Kresta Comments
4:20 – Science vs. Religion: A New Battlefield Over the Missing Link?
In what could prove to be a landmark discovery, a leading paleontologist said scientists have dug up the 47 million-year-old fossil of an ancient primate whose features suggest it could be the common ancestor of all later monkeys, apes and humans. According to Darwinian evolution, humans evolved from ancient ape-like ancestors. Some 50 million years ago, two ape-like groups walked the Earth. One is known as the tarsidae, a precursor of the tarsier, a tiny, large-eyed creature that lives in Asia. Another group is known as the adapidae, a precursor of today's lemurs in Madagascar. Based on previously limited fossil evidence, one big debate had been whether the tarsidae or adapidae group gave rise to monkeys, apes and humans. This latest discovery bolsters the less common position that our ancient ape-like ancestor was an adapid, the believed precursor of lemurs. Dr. Fuzz Rana of Reasons to Believe is here to shed some light on the story.
5:00 – Re-Air 3:00 hour
Live From Minneapolis, MN
3:00 – Scientists Unveil the “Missing Link” in NY
Scientists have unveiled a 47-million-year-old fossilised skeleton of a monkey hailed as the missing link in human evolution. The search for a direct connection between humans and the rest of the animal kingdom has taken 200 years - but it was presented to the world today at a special news conference in New York. The discovery of the 95%-complete 'lemur monkey' - dubbed Ida - is described by experts as the "eighth wonder of the world".They say its impact on the world of palaeontology will be "somewhat like an asteroid falling down to Earth". That’s how it’s being reported. We get a check on reality from Jonathan Wells of the Discovery Institute.
3:30 – A History of the Search for the “Missing Link”
We continue our discussion of the “missing link” by taking a survey of the history of the elusive search for a link to “prove” Darwinian evolution. Edward Larson won the 1998 Pulitzer Prize for History for his book Summer for the Gods: The Scopes Trial and America's Continuing Debate Over Science and Religion and he is with us to look at this story and it’s significance in the evolution debate.
4:00 – Kresta Comments
4:20 – Science vs. Religion: A New Battlefield Over the Missing Link?
In what could prove to be a landmark discovery, a leading paleontologist said scientists have dug up the 47 million-year-old fossil of an ancient primate whose features suggest it could be the common ancestor of all later monkeys, apes and humans. According to Darwinian evolution, humans evolved from ancient ape-like ancestors. Some 50 million years ago, two ape-like groups walked the Earth. One is known as the tarsidae, a precursor of the tarsier, a tiny, large-eyed creature that lives in Asia. Another group is known as the adapidae, a precursor of today's lemurs in Madagascar. Based on previously limited fossil evidence, one big debate had been whether the tarsidae or adapidae group gave rise to monkeys, apes and humans. This latest discovery bolsters the less common position that our ancient ape-like ancestor was an adapid, the believed precursor of lemurs. Dr. Fuzz Rana of Reasons to Believe is here to shed some light on the story.
5:00 – Re-Air 3:00 hour
Monday, May 18, 2009
Today on Kresta - May 18, 2009
Talking about the "things that matter most" on May 18
Live From Minneapolis, MN
3:00 – Inside the Joyce Center at the ND Graduation
More than two dozen pro-life protesters were arrested at Notre Dame University Sunday as President Barack Obama told a graduation ceremony at the Catholic school that both sides in the abortion debate must stop demonizing one another. Obama acknowledged that "no matter how much we want to fudge it ... the fact is that at some level, the views of the two camps are irreconcilable." But he still implored the University of Notre Dame's graduating class and all in the U.S. to stop "reducing those with differing views to caricature. Open hearts. Open minds. Fair-minded words. It's a way of life that always has been the Notre Dame tradition." We talk with Anna Mitchell of the Sonrise Morning Show who was inside the Commencement Exercises.
3:20 – “Fr. Oprah” Scandalizes the Faithful of Miami
A popular Miami priest and media personality says that he is thinking about repudiating his ordination for a woman he loves after a magazine ran pictures of the couple kissing and hugging. The Rev. Alberto Cutie said he supports the Roman Catholic Church's rule that priests cannot marry and said he does not want to become the "anti-celibacy priest." Cutie was removed last week as head of the Miami Archdiocese's international radio network and as head of his parish after the Spanish-language magazine TVnotas ran photos of him embracing a woman at a bar and at a beach. Fr. Tom Euteneuer of Human Life International joins us to look at celibacy and the priesthood.
4:00 – What Happened to the “gay gene”
A publication from the American Psychological Association includes an admission that there is no "gay" gene, according to a doctor who has written widely about the issue. A. Dean Byrd, the past president of NARTH, confirmed that the statement from the American Psychological Association came in a brochure that updates what the APA has advocated for years. Specifically, in a brochure that first came out about 1998, the APA stated: "There is considerable recent evidence to suggest that biology, including genetic or inborn hormonal factors, play a significant role in a person's sexuality." However, in the update: a brochure now called, "Answers to Your Questions for a Better Understanding of Sexual Orientation & Homosexuality," the APA's position changed. We talk with Peter LaBarbara, President of Americans For Truth about Homosexuality.
4:20 – Judge rules US family can't refuse chemo for Minnesota boy
A Minnesota judge has ruled that a 13-year-old boy with a highly treatable form of cancer must seek conventional medical treatment despite his parents' objections on religious grounds. The judge found that Daniel Hauser has been "medically neglected" and is in need of child protection services. Daniel was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma and stopped chemotherapy in February after a single treatment. He and his parents opted instead for "alternative medicines" based on their religious beliefs. Doctors have said Daniel's cancer had up to a 90 percent chance of being cured with chemotherapy and radiation. Without those treatments, doctors said his chances of survival are 5 percent. Dr. Brian Scarnecchia of Ave Maria Law School joins us to discuss it.
5:00 – Al Dissects Obama Commencement Address at Notre Dame
5:40 – Protesting at Notre Dame
Although he had initially planned to stay away from campus yesterday as President Barack Obama was honored at Notre Dame, Bishop John D’Arcy of Fort Wayne-South Bend, Indiana changed his mind and spoke at a campus pro-life rally. According to the Fort Wayne News Sentinel, the bishop spoke in front of 2,500 people protesting the university’s award to pro-abortion President Barack Obama. Initially Bishop D’Arcy had planned to boycott the graduation festivities, however he decided to appear on campus due to the school’s pro-life undergraduates. "It is certainly the place for the bishop to be here," D'Arcy said. "John D'Arcy's not important, but the office of bishop if very important and it must always be like Pope John Paul II to stand up for life all the time, everywhere without exception.” Teresa Tomeo and Monica Miller were there and they join us to discuss it.
Live From Minneapolis, MN
3:00 – Inside the Joyce Center at the ND Graduation
More than two dozen pro-life protesters were arrested at Notre Dame University Sunday as President Barack Obama told a graduation ceremony at the Catholic school that both sides in the abortion debate must stop demonizing one another. Obama acknowledged that "no matter how much we want to fudge it ... the fact is that at some level, the views of the two camps are irreconcilable." But he still implored the University of Notre Dame's graduating class and all in the U.S. to stop "reducing those with differing views to caricature. Open hearts. Open minds. Fair-minded words. It's a way of life that always has been the Notre Dame tradition." We talk with Anna Mitchell of the Sonrise Morning Show who was inside the Commencement Exercises.
3:20 – “Fr. Oprah” Scandalizes the Faithful of Miami
A popular Miami priest and media personality says that he is thinking about repudiating his ordination for a woman he loves after a magazine ran pictures of the couple kissing and hugging. The Rev. Alberto Cutie said he supports the Roman Catholic Church's rule that priests cannot marry and said he does not want to become the "anti-celibacy priest." Cutie was removed last week as head of the Miami Archdiocese's international radio network and as head of his parish after the Spanish-language magazine TVnotas ran photos of him embracing a woman at a bar and at a beach. Fr. Tom Euteneuer of Human Life International joins us to look at celibacy and the priesthood.
4:00 – What Happened to the “gay gene”
A publication from the American Psychological Association includes an admission that there is no "gay" gene, according to a doctor who has written widely about the issue. A. Dean Byrd, the past president of NARTH, confirmed that the statement from the American Psychological Association came in a brochure that updates what the APA has advocated for years. Specifically, in a brochure that first came out about 1998, the APA stated: "There is considerable recent evidence to suggest that biology, including genetic or inborn hormonal factors, play a significant role in a person's sexuality." However, in the update: a brochure now called, "Answers to Your Questions for a Better Understanding of Sexual Orientation & Homosexuality," the APA's position changed. We talk with Peter LaBarbara, President of Americans For Truth about Homosexuality.
4:20 – Judge rules US family can't refuse chemo for Minnesota boy
A Minnesota judge has ruled that a 13-year-old boy with a highly treatable form of cancer must seek conventional medical treatment despite his parents' objections on religious grounds. The judge found that Daniel Hauser has been "medically neglected" and is in need of child protection services. Daniel was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma and stopped chemotherapy in February after a single treatment. He and his parents opted instead for "alternative medicines" based on their religious beliefs. Doctors have said Daniel's cancer had up to a 90 percent chance of being cured with chemotherapy and radiation. Without those treatments, doctors said his chances of survival are 5 percent. Dr. Brian Scarnecchia of Ave Maria Law School joins us to discuss it.
5:00 – Al Dissects Obama Commencement Address at Notre Dame
5:40 – Protesting at Notre Dame
Although he had initially planned to stay away from campus yesterday as President Barack Obama was honored at Notre Dame, Bishop John D’Arcy of Fort Wayne-South Bend, Indiana changed his mind and spoke at a campus pro-life rally. According to the Fort Wayne News Sentinel, the bishop spoke in front of 2,500 people protesting the university’s award to pro-abortion President Barack Obama. Initially Bishop D’Arcy had planned to boycott the graduation festivities, however he decided to appear on campus due to the school’s pro-life undergraduates. "It is certainly the place for the bishop to be here," D'Arcy said. "John D'Arcy's not important, but the office of bishop if very important and it must always be like Pope John Paul II to stand up for life all the time, everywhere without exception.” Teresa Tomeo and Monica Miller were there and they join us to discuss it.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Commencement Demonstration Details
ND Response has received official permission to host a prayerful and constructive demonstration on the campus of the University of Notre Dame on the weekend of Commencement. As students of this University, they invite all those interested in respectfully and constructively standing alongside them as they give witness to Notre Dame’s Catholic identity and affirm the sanctity of life. Click here for a schedule for Commencement weekend.
Today on Kresta - May 14, 2009
Talking about the "things that matter most" on May 14
Live From the Campus of the University of Notre Dame
3:00 – Kresta Comments – Live From Notre Dame
3:20 – At The Gates of Notre Dame
We all knew this fight was coming. The Catholic Church and the Catholic colleges have been heading toward a crash since at least 1990, when John Paul II issued Ex Corde Ecclesiae, his apostolic constitution for Catholic institutions of higher education. And now, at last, the battle is public—brought to fever pitch by Notre Dame’s bestowing of an honorary law degree on a prominent supporter of legalized abortion. Jody Bottum of First Things is here to analyze.
3:40 – Archbishop Burke: ND the “greatest of scandals”
Barack Obama. Notre Dame. Abortion. Marriage. Last week, Archbishop Raymond Burke returned to his native United States from Rome to talk about the moral and patriotic responsibilities of the Catholic American in 2009. Speaking at the National Catholic Prayer Breakfast in Washington, he addressed hot-button issues directly, and made headlines. But the Vatican official — whose role could be described as “chief justice” of the Catholic Church’s “supreme court” — did more than deliver well-received applause lines on controversial issues; at the core of this shepherd’s address were challenges and instruction to every Catholic within the sound of his voice (and, thanks to the Internet, very many more). Kathryn Jean Lopez was able to interview the Archbishop on his flight back to Rome. She joins us.
4:00 – ND Alumni Confirm $13.9 million in withheld donations
Organizers of ReplaceJenkins.com, the online effort that asks alumni and donors to the University of Notre Dame to withhold donations, announced this week that they have tallied nearly $14 million in withheld donations from alumni and donors who feel disenfranchised by the trend of Notre Dame’s leadership to abandon its Catholic identity. The website ReplaceJenkins.com has received over 1,400 pledges from alumni and donors promising to withhold future donations. After more than three weeks since the website was launched, the addition of new alumni and donors on the site continues daily. We talk with spokesman David DiFranco.
4:20 – The Theology of the Body: Presentation Matters
In an interview on ABC's "Nightline" last week, Christopher West, of Theology of the Body fame, compared favorably Pope John Paul II and Hugh Hefner, founder and publisher of Playboy Magazine, calling them his “muses.” Dr. Damian Federyka has spent many years studying John Paul the Great’s Theology of the Body and is here to challenge West’s presentation of TOTB.
5:00 – ND: Identity Crisis
Fr. Frank Pavone will be present on the campus of the University of Notre Dame this weekend. Members of the senior class who have decided not to attend their own graduation have invited him to lead them in prayer at the Class of 2009 Vigil for Life, which will start at 2pm, the same time as the commencement ceremony in which President Obama will be honored. Fr. Pavone stated, “In standing with these students, I am standing with the true spirit of Notre Dame: a pro-life spirit, in harmony with human reason and Catholic Faith. The scandal that has been generated does not represent what Notre Dame is all about; it represents a radical betrayal of what Notre Dame is all about. I am encouraged by the pro-life activities of so many student groups on this campus – activities that are carried out all year round.” He joins us.
5:20 – ND Response: We Want Our University Back
ND Response has received official permission to host a prayerful and constructive demonstration on the campus of the University of Notre Dame on the weekend of Commencement. As students of this University, they invite all those interested in respectfully and constructively standing alongside us as we give witness to Notre Dame’s Catholic identity and affirm the sanctity of life. The events include Bishop John D’Arcy and Fr. Frank Pavone and will take place Saturday and Sunday on the camps of Notre Dame. John Daly of NDResponse is here with the details.
5:40 – Angels and Demons: The Review
Quick, how did Copernicus die? Dan Brown readers “know” the answer: “Outspoken scientists like Copernicus” were “murdered by the church for revealing scientific truths,” according to a tag-team history lesson by Harvard “symbolist” Robert Langdon and CERN director Maximilian Kohler in Angels & Demons, the predecessor to Brown’s blockbuster sequel, The Da Vinci Code. Tomorrow the new Ron Howard adaptation of Angels & Demons — reworked as a sequel rather than a prequel to Howard’s 2006 smash The Da Vinci Code — will bring another installment of the Dan Brown version of history to millions of moviegoers. While the new film doesn’t repeat the specific charge of the murder of Copernicus, it maintains the larger historical context set forth in Brown’s Angels & Demons: the Church’s murderous persecution of science, especially in the Illuminati, a secret society that Brown claims counted Copernicus, Galileo and Bernini among its members. We have the official review with Steven Greydanus.
Live From the Campus of the University of Notre Dame
3:00 – Kresta Comments – Live From Notre Dame
3:20 – At The Gates of Notre Dame
We all knew this fight was coming. The Catholic Church and the Catholic colleges have been heading toward a crash since at least 1990, when John Paul II issued Ex Corde Ecclesiae, his apostolic constitution for Catholic institutions of higher education. And now, at last, the battle is public—brought to fever pitch by Notre Dame’s bestowing of an honorary law degree on a prominent supporter of legalized abortion. Jody Bottum of First Things is here to analyze.
3:40 – Archbishop Burke: ND the “greatest of scandals”
Barack Obama. Notre Dame. Abortion. Marriage. Last week, Archbishop Raymond Burke returned to his native United States from Rome to talk about the moral and patriotic responsibilities of the Catholic American in 2009. Speaking at the National Catholic Prayer Breakfast in Washington, he addressed hot-button issues directly, and made headlines. But the Vatican official — whose role could be described as “chief justice” of the Catholic Church’s “supreme court” — did more than deliver well-received applause lines on controversial issues; at the core of this shepherd’s address were challenges and instruction to every Catholic within the sound of his voice (and, thanks to the Internet, very many more). Kathryn Jean Lopez was able to interview the Archbishop on his flight back to Rome. She joins us.
4:00 – ND Alumni Confirm $13.9 million in withheld donations
Organizers of ReplaceJenkins.com, the online effort that asks alumni and donors to the University of Notre Dame to withhold donations, announced this week that they have tallied nearly $14 million in withheld donations from alumni and donors who feel disenfranchised by the trend of Notre Dame’s leadership to abandon its Catholic identity. The website ReplaceJenkins.com has received over 1,400 pledges from alumni and donors promising to withhold future donations. After more than three weeks since the website was launched, the addition of new alumni and donors on the site continues daily. We talk with spokesman David DiFranco.
4:20 – The Theology of the Body: Presentation Matters
In an interview on ABC's "Nightline" last week, Christopher West, of Theology of the Body fame, compared favorably Pope John Paul II and Hugh Hefner, founder and publisher of Playboy Magazine, calling them his “muses.” Dr. Damian Federyka has spent many years studying John Paul the Great’s Theology of the Body and is here to challenge West’s presentation of TOTB.
5:00 – ND: Identity Crisis
Fr. Frank Pavone will be present on the campus of the University of Notre Dame this weekend. Members of the senior class who have decided not to attend their own graduation have invited him to lead them in prayer at the Class of 2009 Vigil for Life, which will start at 2pm, the same time as the commencement ceremony in which President Obama will be honored. Fr. Pavone stated, “In standing with these students, I am standing with the true spirit of Notre Dame: a pro-life spirit, in harmony with human reason and Catholic Faith. The scandal that has been generated does not represent what Notre Dame is all about; it represents a radical betrayal of what Notre Dame is all about. I am encouraged by the pro-life activities of so many student groups on this campus – activities that are carried out all year round.” He joins us.
5:20 – ND Response: We Want Our University Back
ND Response has received official permission to host a prayerful and constructive demonstration on the campus of the University of Notre Dame on the weekend of Commencement. As students of this University, they invite all those interested in respectfully and constructively standing alongside us as we give witness to Notre Dame’s Catholic identity and affirm the sanctity of life. The events include Bishop John D’Arcy and Fr. Frank Pavone and will take place Saturday and Sunday on the camps of Notre Dame. John Daly of NDResponse is here with the details.
5:40 – Angels and Demons: The Review
Quick, how did Copernicus die? Dan Brown readers “know” the answer: “Outspoken scientists like Copernicus” were “murdered by the church for revealing scientific truths,” according to a tag-team history lesson by Harvard “symbolist” Robert Langdon and CERN director Maximilian Kohler in Angels & Demons, the predecessor to Brown’s blockbuster sequel, The Da Vinci Code. Tomorrow the new Ron Howard adaptation of Angels & Demons — reworked as a sequel rather than a prequel to Howard’s 2006 smash The Da Vinci Code — will bring another installment of the Dan Brown version of history to millions of moviegoers. While the new film doesn’t repeat the specific charge of the murder of Copernicus, it maintains the larger historical context set forth in Brown’s Angels & Demons: the Church’s murderous persecution of science, especially in the Illuminati, a secret society that Brown claims counted Copernicus, Galileo and Bernini among its members. We have the official review with Steven Greydanus.
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