Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.) compares health insurance coverage for Viagra with health insurance coverage for abortion in debating amendment to Senate health care bill.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
100 of the most unique nativity scenes on display in Rome
You probably know what a nativity scene looks like, but these are by far some of the most peculiar.
It’s ‘100 presepi’, or nativity scenes, an exhibit at Piazza del Popolo in Rome. For 34 years, nativity scenes from all corners of the world have come together in Rome to celebrate Christmas.
Watch this video:
It’s ‘100 presepi’, or nativity scenes, an exhibit at Piazza del Popolo in Rome. For 34 years, nativity scenes from all corners of the world have come together in Rome to celebrate Christmas.
Watch this video:
Harry Reid Stands by Slavery Comparison for Health-care Opponents
Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) is not a likely candidate to write a sequel to the book "How to Win Friends and Influence People," especially when it comes to winning over the opposition to health-care reform. In one broad sweep, the Democratic Leader on Monday tarred all opponents of health-care reform with the same brush as Americans who once opposed ending slavery or extending civil rights to women and Blacks, and he has refused to back down from his analogy.Instead, the Nevada Democrat on Tuesday castigated Republicans for "distorting" his comments, made Monday on the Senate floor, reported The Hill.
"At pivotal points in American history, the tactics of distortion and delay have certainly been present," Reid said. "They've certainly been used to stop progress. That's what we're talking about here. That's what's happening here. It's very clear. That's the point I made -- no more, no less. Anyone who willingly distorts my comments is only proving my point."
On Monday, Sen. Reid accused the Republican opposition of employing the same delaying tactics used to frustrate anti-slavery efforts, women's emancipation, and civil rights for Blacks, saying they were on the "wrong side of history."
"You think you've heard these same excuses before? You're right," Reid declared. "In this country there were those who dug in their heels and said, 'Slow down, it's too early. Let's wait. Things aren't bad enough' -- about slavery. When women wanted to vote, [they said] 'Slow down, there will be a better day to do that -- the day isn't quite right.'"
Reid also stated, "When this body was on the verge of guaranteeing equal civil rights to everyone regardless of the color of their skin, some senators resorted to the same filibuster threats that we hear today."
Republicans were outraged at the insinuations. GOP Chairman Michael Steele - who is himself Black - blasted Reid for the remarks and demanded an apology, reports Politico.
"The pressure has apparently led Senator Reid not only to make offensive and absurd statements, but also to lose his ability to reason," Steele said.
Steele later appeared on CBS' Tuesday Early Show, calling it an "ignorant moment for Harry Reid" and repeating his call for an apology.
"They [the Left and Democrats in this country] play that race card, that slavery card, that civil rights card," when things do not go their way said Steele.
Resistance to Reid's health-care plan hinges largely on two points: the bill's funding of abortion through health-care subsidies, and the public option, a government-run insurer that would "compete" with private insurance companies.
Reid announced a compromise deal today on the public option, which would involve a plan to allow Americans 55 years old and older to enroll in Medicare. The other provision would provide national health-benefit plans through private insurers, coordinated by the Office for General Management. If that plan failed to give Americans near-universal insurance coverage, then a government-run plan would kick in.
However, a 55-45 vote to table an amendment offered by Sens. Nelson, Hatch, and Casey to forbid the use of federal subsidies to pay for elective abortions, has exacerbated, not solved, Reid's problem about where to get the 60 votes necessary to end debate and pass the bill. Both Nelson (D-Neb.) and Casey (D-Penn.) have indicated that the abortion-debate is not over, and unless their legislation is added to the health-care bill, they will join the GOP in filibustering the bill.
Today on Kresta - December 10, 2009
Talking about the "things that matter most" on Dec. 10
4:00 – Direct to my Desk - Most Fascinating People of 2009
Barbara Walters thinks this year’s roster of fascinating people is a little edgier, more current, and less obvious than usual. Of course, the fact that she’s compiling a new list is no surprise. Airing last night on ABC, Barbara Walters Presented her 17th edition of “The 10 Most Fascinating People of the Year.” The surprise #1 was Michelle Obama. Others included Lady Gaga, Adam Lambert, Tyler Perry, Kate Gosselin, Brett Favre, Glenn Beck, Sarah Palin and the Jackson kids. We think the listeners of “Kresta in the Afternoon” may have very different people in mind. We create our own list of the most fascinating people of 2009.
5:40 – Senate Health Care Bill: Yes to Federal Funding for Abortion
By a vote of 54 to 45, the U.S. Senate today tabled (killed) an amendment to remove elective abortion from the new federal programs that would be created by pending health care legislation. National Right to Life says they will oppose cloture on the bill, which would require 60 affirmative votes. In addition, a number of pro-life Democrats in the House, who supported passage of health care legislation on November 7, will not vote for the Senate bill in its current form. The USCCB said “The Senate vote to table the Nelson-Hatch-Casey amendment is a grave mistake and a serious blow to genuine health care reform.” We talk with Mike O’Dea of the Christus Medicus Foundation.
4:00 – Direct to my Desk - Most Fascinating People of 2009
Barbara Walters thinks this year’s roster of fascinating people is a little edgier, more current, and less obvious than usual. Of course, the fact that she’s compiling a new list is no surprise. Airing last night on ABC, Barbara Walters Presented her 17th edition of “The 10 Most Fascinating People of the Year.” The surprise #1 was Michelle Obama. Others included Lady Gaga, Adam Lambert, Tyler Perry, Kate Gosselin, Brett Favre, Glenn Beck, Sarah Palin and the Jackson kids. We think the listeners of “Kresta in the Afternoon” may have very different people in mind. We create our own list of the most fascinating people of 2009.
5:40 – Senate Health Care Bill: Yes to Federal Funding for Abortion
By a vote of 54 to 45, the U.S. Senate today tabled (killed) an amendment to remove elective abortion from the new federal programs that would be created by pending health care legislation. National Right to Life says they will oppose cloture on the bill, which would require 60 affirmative votes. In addition, a number of pro-life Democrats in the House, who supported passage of health care legislation on November 7, will not vote for the Senate bill in its current form. The USCCB said “The Senate vote to table the Nelson-Hatch-Casey amendment is a grave mistake and a serious blow to genuine health care reform.” We talk with Mike O’Dea of the Christus Medicus Foundation.
Pushing Abortion - Shhhh! Nobody is Supposed to Notice
A pro-life group warns that Senate Democrats are attempting to use the end of the year omnibus funding bill to "smuggle" in the removal of three longstanding bans on government-funded abortion.Democrats are considering attaching to the omnibus bill provisions that would drop the ban on government-funded abortion in Washington, DC, and also in the insurance plans that cover members of Congress themselves. They are also hoping to include a provision that would even prevent any future president from curbing U.S. funding of organizations that promote abortion overseas through the foreign aid program.
According to Douglas Johnson of the National Right to Life Committee, Democratic leaders on Capitol Hill are using the omnibus legislation as camouflage for the pro-abortion provisions. "They're...trying to smuggle through some changes in law that would remove some longstanding pro-life policies," he explains. "They're trying to do this through an end-of-the-session catchall funding bill, which is being cooked up behind closed doors."
Johnson says proponents of the changes are trying to get them approved while not many members are focused on it. And none of the provisions being pushed were considered by the full Senate, he adds.
"What the congressional Democratic leaders are considering doing is taking a single appropriations bill that's just supposed to cover a couple of departments and just stapling a bunch of other bills to it that were never even taken up by the Senate," Johnson explains. "And these bills contain three different pro-abortion provisions. So, they want to ram these through under a fast-track procedure where the Senate would never have even debated or had a chance to vote on these measures."
Johnson is convinced that if the pro-abortion measures are attached, they will threaten passage of an appropriations bill that must be approved for the government to continue operating after December 18.
Thirty-five senators led by Republican Jim DeMint of South Carolina have sent a letter to Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nevada), warning him that if the three pro-abortion provisions are included in the omnibus bill, they will use all procedures at their disposal to block its passage. The pro-abortion measures are being pushed by the No. 2 Democrat in the Senate, Dick Durbin of Illinois, and New Jersey Senator Frank Lautenberg.
On Tuesday, the Senate rejected the Nelson-Hatch amendment, which would have removed abortion funding from the healthcare reform bill. In taking the action, the Senate also voted to subsidize private insurance plans that cover abortion on demand. Johnson explains what happens next.
"So now the upcoming vote on cloture on the bill itself will become the key vote on whether to put the federal government into the abortion business," he offers. "We oppose cloture on this bill, which would require 60 affirmative votes -- and in addition, a number of pro-life Democrats in the House who supported passage of healthcare legislation last month will not vote for the Senate bill in its current form. So this thing is a long way from over."
Cloture means getting 60 votes to end debate. The vote killing the pro-life amendment was 54-45.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Nelson-Hatch Has Been Tabled (Not Good)
The Senate finally addressed the Nelson-Hatch Amendment to prevent taxpayer funding of aboriton under the health care reform bill.
As expected, the amendment was defeated. Be sure to know how your Senator voted ("nay" is pro-life). If the bill passes, it will have to be reconciled with the House version of health care reform, which contains pro-life regulations. Pro-life Senators are also facing a pro-abortion omnibus bill, which they are threatening to filibuster.
Image taken from senate.gov
Image taken from senate.gov
Undercover inside the Appleton, WI Planned Parenthood
The latest video from Lila Rose and Live Action Films.
Investigating medical misinformation and manipulation at Planned Parenthood, the nation's abortion industry giant.
"At Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin, we know that to truly take charge, you need information. You need facts. You need knowledge."
-Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin website, accessed 12.7.09
Investigating medical misinformation and manipulation at Planned Parenthood, the nation's abortion industry giant.
"At Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin, we know that to truly take charge, you need information. You need facts. You need knowledge."
-Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin website, accessed 12.7.09
Today on Kresta - December 9, 2009
Talking about the "things that matter most" on Dec. 9
4:00 – Kresta Comments
4:20 – Climate talks seek calm after “Climategate” fury
For years, Jay Richards says he’s warned fellow Christians not to confuse environmental stewardship with climate change alarmism. His experience is that many Christian environmentalists simply accept the conventional wisdom when it comes to the science, rather than studying it carefully. They place a lot of weight on the credibility of mainstream views. So he is now hoping that “Climategate” will cause many of them to rethink their uncritical embrace of what they learn from the cover of Newsweek. We talk to Jay about how “Climategate” has affected the current Copenhagen Climate Change Conference.
4:40 – A Catholic View of Literary Classics – Part 10 of 10: Uncle Tom’s Cabin
We continue our 10-week series examining Classic Literature from a Catholic perspective. We will ensure that traditional moral readings of the works are given prominence, instead of the feminist or deconstructionist readings that often proliferate in other series of 'critical editions'. As such, they represent a genuine extension of consumer choice, enabling educators, students, and lovers of good literature to buy editions of classic literary works without having to 'buy into' the ideologies of secular fundamentalism. Today, we examine Uncle Tom’s Cabin with Ave Maria University Professor Mark McCullough.
5:00 – President Creates New Bioethics Commission / National Institute for Health Expands Federal Funding for ESCR
Fr. Thomas Euteneuer, president of Human Life International, is calling on the pro-life majority of Americans to pay close attention to the new Presidential Commission for the Study of Bioethical Issues created by President Barack Obama. On December 2, 2009, President Obama created the new commission, after dismantling the former National Bioethics Commission. The prospects don’t look good for the unborn. Also, the National Institutes for Health just announced that scientists can start using taxpayer dollars to do research with 13 batches of embryonic stem cells and the government says dozens more cell lines should be available soon. Fr. Euteneuer has the analysis.
5:20 – Looking Back at the Feast of St. Ambrose
Saint Ambrose was a bishop of Milan who became one of the most influential ecclesiastical figures of the fourth century. He is counted as one of the four original doctors of the Church. Ambrose was descended from an ancient Roman family, was a successful lawyer, governor of Milan, and ended up as Bishop of Milan and Doctor of the Church. His feast day was celebrated this past Monday and we pay him his due with Steve Ray.
5:40 – From the Ring to the King
Catholic lay evangelist Jesse Romero is here in studio. This former 2 time world champion professional kick boxer and east LA cop tells of his journey from nearly leaving the Church to becoming a great defender of the Faith. Jesse's energetic enthusiasm is sure to inspire you in your walk with Christ.
4:00 – Kresta Comments
4:20 – Climate talks seek calm after “Climategate” fury
For years, Jay Richards says he’s warned fellow Christians not to confuse environmental stewardship with climate change alarmism. His experience is that many Christian environmentalists simply accept the conventional wisdom when it comes to the science, rather than studying it carefully. They place a lot of weight on the credibility of mainstream views. So he is now hoping that “Climategate” will cause many of them to rethink their uncritical embrace of what they learn from the cover of Newsweek. We talk to Jay about how “Climategate” has affected the current Copenhagen Climate Change Conference.
4:40 – A Catholic View of Literary Classics – Part 10 of 10: Uncle Tom’s Cabin
We continue our 10-week series examining Classic Literature from a Catholic perspective. We will ensure that traditional moral readings of the works are given prominence, instead of the feminist or deconstructionist readings that often proliferate in other series of 'critical editions'. As such, they represent a genuine extension of consumer choice, enabling educators, students, and lovers of good literature to buy editions of classic literary works without having to 'buy into' the ideologies of secular fundamentalism. Today, we examine Uncle Tom’s Cabin with Ave Maria University Professor Mark McCullough.
5:00 – President Creates New Bioethics Commission / National Institute for Health Expands Federal Funding for ESCR
Fr. Thomas Euteneuer, president of Human Life International, is calling on the pro-life majority of Americans to pay close attention to the new Presidential Commission for the Study of Bioethical Issues created by President Barack Obama. On December 2, 2009, President Obama created the new commission, after dismantling the former National Bioethics Commission. The prospects don’t look good for the unborn. Also, the National Institutes for Health just announced that scientists can start using taxpayer dollars to do research with 13 batches of embryonic stem cells and the government says dozens more cell lines should be available soon. Fr. Euteneuer has the analysis.
5:20 – Looking Back at the Feast of St. Ambrose
Saint Ambrose was a bishop of Milan who became one of the most influential ecclesiastical figures of the fourth century. He is counted as one of the four original doctors of the Church. Ambrose was descended from an ancient Roman family, was a successful lawyer, governor of Milan, and ended up as Bishop of Milan and Doctor of the Church. His feast day was celebrated this past Monday and we pay him his due with Steve Ray.
5:40 – From the Ring to the King
Catholic lay evangelist Jesse Romero is here in studio. This former 2 time world champion professional kick boxer and east LA cop tells of his journey from nearly leaving the Church to becoming a great defender of the Faith. Jesse's energetic enthusiasm is sure to inspire you in your walk with Christ.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Today on Kresta - Dec. 7, 2009
Talking about the "things that matter most" on Dec. 7
The Best of “Kresta in the Afternoon”
4:00 – Abraham's Children
Could our sense of who we are really turn on a sliver of DNA? In our multiethnic world, questions of individual identity are becoming increasingly unclear. Now Jon Entine brings to life the profound human implications of the Age of Genetics while illuminating one of today's most controversial topics: the connection between genetics and who we are, and specifically the question "Who is a Jew?" and "What is the GENETIC difference between Jews and Christians?"
5:00 – Unlocking the Book of Revelation
We welcome Michael Barber back to the program and take a detailed look at the book of Revelation with its rich tapestry of prophecy, history, and biblical allusion. Verse by verse, we will unravel the hidden threads of meaning in the Book of Revelation, all the while celebrating this beautiful and glorious vision of God.
The Best of “Kresta in the Afternoon”
4:00 – Abraham's Children
Could our sense of who we are really turn on a sliver of DNA? In our multiethnic world, questions of individual identity are becoming increasingly unclear. Now Jon Entine brings to life the profound human implications of the Age of Genetics while illuminating one of today's most controversial topics: the connection between genetics and who we are, and specifically the question "Who is a Jew?" and "What is the GENETIC difference between Jews and Christians?"
5:00 – Unlocking the Book of Revelation
We welcome Michael Barber back to the program and take a detailed look at the book of Revelation with its rich tapestry of prophecy, history, and biblical allusion. Verse by verse, we will unravel the hidden threads of meaning in the Book of Revelation, all the while celebrating this beautiful and glorious vision of God.
Urgent Drive Continued!!!
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Please help get the word out!
Forward this email to friends and family!
The Urgent Membership Drive has been extended to
Monday, December 07, 2009…
Donations can be made by calling
1 877 288 1077
Or on line at
avemariaradio.net
Thanks and God bless you!
Friday, December 4, 2009
Santa at our Pledge Drive!
Please consider supporting Catholic Radio during our membership drive.
Just a few minutes ago Saint Nick visited our radio station.
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A History of Russian Presidents at the Vatican
The Holy See and the Russian Federation vowed to establish full diplomatic ties, the Vatican said Thursday, after a meeting between Pope Benedict XVI and Russia’s president, Dmitri A. Medvedev. The Vatican called the meeting “cordial.” Ties between the Vatican and Russia have historically been strained, because of the cold war and the centuries-old rift between the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox churches. In spite of improved ties, Vatican officials said an official visit to Russia was not likely, The Associated Press reported.
Watch this video from "Rome Reports" about the history of Russia and the Vatican.
Watch this video from "Rome Reports" about the history of Russia and the Vatican.
Naked for Jesus?
Joanna Krupa, the Polish model on the cover of this month's Playboy magazine has released a statement countering critics of her recent advertisement for People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) in which she professes herself to be a practicing Catholic who is “working to stop senseless suffering of animals, the most defenseless of God's creation.”Krupa's comments came in response to statements made by Bill Donohue, president of the Catholic League, in reaction to Krupa's most recent ad campaign with PETA: “Be an angel for animals. Always Adopt. Never Buy.”
One of the ads features Krupa wearing angel wings and a digital halo while holding a large, elaborate cross which barely covers her nude figure. The other shows a topless Krupa, again with angel wings and a halo, holding a dog while a rosary dangles from her hand.
Donohue blasted PETA for a lack of reverence and an ignorance of ethics. "The fact is that cats and dogs are a lot safer in pet stores than they are in the hands of PETA employees," Donohue said in a statement. "Moreover, pet stores don't rip off Christian iconography and engage in cheap irreligious claims." "It also has a long and disgraceful record of exploiting Christian and Jewish themes to hawk its ugly services. Those who support this organization sorely need a reality check,” he continued.
“It's understandable that the Catholic League is wary of another sex scandal, but the sex we're talking about pertains to dogs and cats,” Krupa's statement reads. “In my heart I know that Jesus would never condone the suffering that results when dogs and cats are allowed to breed,” she added.
The model who appeared, unclad, in PETA's 2007 “I'd rather go naked than wear fur” campaign said, “As a practicing Catholic, I am shocked that the Catholic League is speaking out against my PETA ads, which I am very proud of.”
“I'm doing what the Catholic Church should be doing, working to stop senseless suffering of animals, the most defenseless of God's creation. I am a voice for innocent animals who are being neglected and dumped by the millions at shelters,” she asserted.
Terry Polakovic, Executive Director of ENDOW (Educating on the Nature and Dignity of Women) told CNA that if Krupa is “a serious Catholic, she might want to devote some time to catechesis.” Polakovic referred Krupa to John Paul II's, “'Theology of the Body,' wherein he explains how the human body speaks a language of its own.”
Earlier this year, Krupa defended nudity by saying the human body is a work of art. "I think worrying about going topless in a photo shoot or film is really ridiculous," she told Fox News. "And the fact is, Pope John Paul said, since we were born naked, it is art, and it's just showing a beautiful body that God created."
Krupa's suggestion that the late Pope John Paul II endorsed photographs of half-naked women because they depict "a beautiful body that God created" is simply wrong," said Joan Frawley Desmond, a Catholic journalist who studied at the Pontifical John Paul II Institute for Studies on Marriage and the Family.
Desmond added, “For the Pope, the human body has been created by God as a priceless 'gift' of one spouse to another. Great art respects this 'truth' and treats the naked human form with dignity. In contrast, the casual display of the naked body transforms this inestimable 'gift' into 'public property.'”
“It is not enough to say “The body is a work of art” and then proceed however you might wish,” Polakovic remarked. “ That the body may be perceived as a work of art needs to be understood within a much larger context of the overall understanding of what it means to be a human person, that is, a union of body and soul. We must understand the dignity of the person, which stems from being created in the image and likeness of God.”
“For a beautiful woman like Joanna to be under informed about her true nature and dignity as a woman made in the image of God is a real sorrow. And more worrisome is that it poses a danger to other people who are similarly confused about their nature and purpose and look to a famous model to school them in truth,” Polakovic added.
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NIH Approves First Embryo Stem Cell Lines under Obama Executive Order
Yesterday the federal U.S. National Institute of Health (NIH) approved the first new 13 human embryonic stem cell (hESC) lines for use in NIH-funded medical research. The approval is the result of an executive order issued last March, when President Obama overturned President Bush's ban of the use of new hESC lines in federally-funded research."I am happy to say that we now have human embryonic stem cell lines eligible for use by our research community under our new stem cell policy," said Dr. Francis Collins, director of the NIH. "In accordance with the guidelines, these stem cell lines were derived from embryos that were donated under ethically sound informed consent processes."
President Bush had banned the federal funding of any hESC lines produced after August 9, 2001, because of the ethical problems involved in creating and using such lines. The hESC lines are created by destroying the "excess" embryos produced by fertility clinics; after the embryo is destroyed, stem cells reproduce by themselves to make a stable and reusable line.
The NIH guidelines are meant to ensure that couples donating their embryos to researchers know that the embryos will be destroyed, are not offered any financial incentives to destroy them, and are given the option of donating their embryo to another couple. The actual destruction of embryos and the creation of hESC lines is still performed with private money; taxpayer funding is for the research conducted with these lines.
The 13 hESC lines approved yesterday were harvested by scientists at Children's Hospital Boston and at Rockefeller University. More that 20 additional stem cell lines may be approved on Friday; 96 lines are currently submitted to the NIH for consideration. Over $20 million in over 30 NIH grants pertaining to embryonic stem cell research had been restricted from use before this announcement.
Many have heralded embryonic stem cells as a miracle cure that could someday heal everything from heart disease to Alzheimers. Yet hESCs thus far have proved more apt to produce tertomas, tumors containing hair, teeth, and other tissues, than to produce any cure; human adult stem cells, which may be produced without destroying an embryo, have had far more success at curing a variety of diseases.
Dr. Collins said that one of the now-funded studies focuses "on the use of stem cells tor therapeutic regeneration of heart muscle cells damaged by heart." He continued: "Another will produce neural stem cells to learn to see whether they can be used for Parkinson's disease."
Interestingly, on same day that the NIH made its announcement, it was reported that another study has had great success using adult stem cells in treating those whose hearts were injured by a heart attack. Furthermore, human adult stem cells have already successfully been used to treat Parkinson's disease.
Non-embryonic stem cells have also been used to treat multiple scelerosis, blindness, lupus, diabetes, spinal cord injuries, and even to re-grow bones.
On the other hand, the FDA recently delayed a bid by biotechnology company Geron to conduct the very first clinical human trials with embryonic stem cells. Professor Lord Winston of Imperial College, an advocate of embryonic stem cell research, said in a 2007 lecture that scientists "often go rather too far in promising what we might achieve" and that he was "not entirely convinced that embryonic stem cells will, in my lifetime, and possibly anybody's lifetime for that matter, be holding quite the promise that we desperately hope they will."
A former director of the National Institute of Health bluntly declared earlier this year that "embryonic stem cells are obsolete."
Her pronouncement was spurred by the 2007 creation of "induced pluripotent stem cells" (iPS cells) from adult skin. Such cells have the ability to turn into any other kind of cell, like embryonic stem cells, but do not require the destruction of an embryo. "Already these reprogrammed cells have eclipsed the value of those harvested from embryos," she wrote, "because of significantly lower cost, ease of production, and genetic identity with the patient."
Richard Doerflinger of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops therefore said that the NIH's announcement was "a political event, but the science is all moving in the other direction," toward iPS cells.
Today on Kresta - December 4, 2009
Talking about the "things that matter most" on Dec. 4
The Best of “Kresta in the Afternoon”
4:00 – Abortion in the Senate Health Care Reform Bill
Just 38% of voters now favor the health care plan proposed by President Obama and congressional Democrats. That’s the lowest level of support measured for the plan in nearly two dozen tracking polls conducted since June. Meanwhile, House Democrats are at an impasse over whether their remake of the nation’s health care system would effectively allow federal funding of abortion. At least two dozen pro-life Democrats believe it would, and while their opposition is unlikely to stall the legislation in the end, they are at odds with Democratic leaders just weeks ahead of anticipated floor action on the bill. Doug Johnson of the National Right to Life Committee keeps us up to date.
4:20 – The Manhattan Declaration
The Internet and blogsphere is buzzing this morning about the The Manhattan Declaration, which is described as “a 4,732-word statement signed by a movement of Orthodox, Catholic and evangelical Christian leaders who are collaborating around moral issues of great concern." The Assocaiated Press says about it: The Document…sounds familiar themes from political and social debates over the health care overhaul and gay marriage battles.” President Barack Obama's desire to reduce the need for abortion is "a commendable goal," but his proposals are likely to increase the number of elective abortions, the document contends. We talk with Fr. Robert Sirico, one of the documents signatories.
4:40 – A Postcard From the Volcano
Beginning in 1914 and ending on the eve of World War II, Lucy Beckett tells an epic story which follows the coming of age and early manhood of the Prussian aristocrat, Max von Hofmannswaldau. From the idyllic surroundings of his ancestral home to the streets of cosmopolitan Breslau menaced by the Nazi SS, Hofmannswaldau uncovers the truth about his own identity and confronts the modern ideologies that threaten the annihilation of millions of people. It’s an extraordinary work about the mysteries of faith and hope and love, prevailing in a time of radical fear.
5:00 – The True St. Nicholas: Why He Matters to Christmas
When most of us hear the name "Saint Nicholas," we immediately think of Santa Claus. But if asked why Santa sometimes goes by this alias, we might be at a loss for a satisfactory answer. Too bad: the real St. Nicholas, a fourth-century bishop who may have attended the famous Council of Nicaea in 325, was a fascinating if elusive figure whose name has been invoked, and selfless deeds recounted, for hundreds of years. Now, in The True St. Nicholas, the bestselling author, radio talk-show host and former Secretary of Education William Bennett brings Saint Nicholas's story to life, and shows why it is still relevant today.
5:20 – The Devil’s Delusion: Atheism and it’s Scientific Pretentions
Militant atheism is on the rise. Richard Dawkins, Sam Harris, Daniel Dennett, and Christopher Hitchens have topped bestseller lists with books denigrating religious belief as dangerous foolishness. And these authors are merely the leading edge of a far larger movement–one that now includes much of the scientific community. A secular Jew, David Berlinski nonetheless delivers a biting defense of religious thought. An acclaimed author who has spent his career writing about mathematics and the sciences, he turns the scientific community’s cherished skepticism back on itself, daring to ask and answer some rather embarrassing questions. He joins us.
The Best of “Kresta in the Afternoon”
4:00 – Abortion in the Senate Health Care Reform Bill
Just 38% of voters now favor the health care plan proposed by President Obama and congressional Democrats. That’s the lowest level of support measured for the plan in nearly two dozen tracking polls conducted since June. Meanwhile, House Democrats are at an impasse over whether their remake of the nation’s health care system would effectively allow federal funding of abortion. At least two dozen pro-life Democrats believe it would, and while their opposition is unlikely to stall the legislation in the end, they are at odds with Democratic leaders just weeks ahead of anticipated floor action on the bill. Doug Johnson of the National Right to Life Committee keeps us up to date.
4:20 – The Manhattan Declaration
The Internet and blogsphere is buzzing this morning about the The Manhattan Declaration, which is described as “a 4,732-word statement signed by a movement of Orthodox, Catholic and evangelical Christian leaders who are collaborating around moral issues of great concern." The Assocaiated Press says about it: The Document…sounds familiar themes from political and social debates over the health care overhaul and gay marriage battles.” President Barack Obama's desire to reduce the need for abortion is "a commendable goal," but his proposals are likely to increase the number of elective abortions, the document contends. We talk with Fr. Robert Sirico, one of the documents signatories.
4:40 – A Postcard From the Volcano
Beginning in 1914 and ending on the eve of World War II, Lucy Beckett tells an epic story which follows the coming of age and early manhood of the Prussian aristocrat, Max von Hofmannswaldau. From the idyllic surroundings of his ancestral home to the streets of cosmopolitan Breslau menaced by the Nazi SS, Hofmannswaldau uncovers the truth about his own identity and confronts the modern ideologies that threaten the annihilation of millions of people. It’s an extraordinary work about the mysteries of faith and hope and love, prevailing in a time of radical fear.
5:00 – The True St. Nicholas: Why He Matters to Christmas
When most of us hear the name "Saint Nicholas," we immediately think of Santa Claus. But if asked why Santa sometimes goes by this alias, we might be at a loss for a satisfactory answer. Too bad: the real St. Nicholas, a fourth-century bishop who may have attended the famous Council of Nicaea in 325, was a fascinating if elusive figure whose name has been invoked, and selfless deeds recounted, for hundreds of years. Now, in The True St. Nicholas, the bestselling author, radio talk-show host and former Secretary of Education William Bennett brings Saint Nicholas's story to life, and shows why it is still relevant today.
5:20 – The Devil’s Delusion: Atheism and it’s Scientific Pretentions
Militant atheism is on the rise. Richard Dawkins, Sam Harris, Daniel Dennett, and Christopher Hitchens have topped bestseller lists with books denigrating religious belief as dangerous foolishness. And these authors are merely the leading edge of a far larger movement–one that now includes much of the scientific community. A secular Jew, David Berlinski nonetheless delivers a biting defense of religious thought. An acclaimed author who has spent his career writing about mathematics and the sciences, he turns the scientific community’s cherished skepticism back on itself, daring to ask and answer some rather embarrassing questions. He joins us.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Today on Kresta - December 3, 2009
Talking about the "things that matter most" on Dec. 3
The Best of “Kresta in the Afternoon”
4:00 – A Lukian Perspective at the close of the Year of St. Paul
In writing the Acts of the Apostles, St. Luke devotes nearly half of his text to St. Paul. Beginning with chapter nine, Luke narrates Paul's change from persecutor to apostle and then relates how Paul subsequently became a Roman prisoner. St. Luke gives prominence to chains as a means of bracketing the transformation that Paul experienced. Luke begins his account with Paul brandishing chains. He closes his narrative with Paul being guarded in chains. We look at this close of the year of St. Paul from a Lukian perspective. Fr. Richard Cassidy is our guide.
5:20 – USCCB Meeting Review / Choosing a Patron Saint for Detroit
Archbishop Allen Vigneron joins us for his regular monthly segment. Today, we discuss the recently-completed USCCB Meeting as well as the Archdiocese of Detroit’s search for a patron saint.
5:00 – USCCB Pastoral Letter on Marriage- “Marriage: Love and Life in the Divine Plan”
The USCCB voted two weeks ago on the approval of a pastoral letter on marriage. The letter, “Love and Life in the Divine Plan,” was overwhelmingly approved and is an important component of the Bishops’ National Pastoral Initiative for Marriage that began in 2004. The pastoral letter is written with a broad and diverse audience in mind – ranging from young unmarried adults to married couples to those who offer pastoral ministries to those whose work informs and shapes opinion and public policy about marriage. The bishops write, “We address this pastoral letter first and foremost to the Catholic faithful in the United States. In a spirit of witness and service we also offer our message to all men and women in the hope of inspiring them to embrace this teaching.” We talk with Bishop Joseph Kurtz, who chairs the Committee that wrote this document.
5:20 – A Short History of the Crusades: Why Should Catholics Care?
Jonathan Riley-Smith tells the story of the Crusades as never before. He has written no less than 8 books that detail a comprehensive history that ranges from the preaching of the First Crusade in 1095 to the legacy of crusading ideals and imagery that continues today. We look at the ideas of apologists, propagandists, and poets about the Crusades, as well as the perceptions and motives of the crusaders themselves and the means by which they joined the movement. He joins us.
The Best of “Kresta in the Afternoon”
4:00 – A Lukian Perspective at the close of the Year of St. Paul
In writing the Acts of the Apostles, St. Luke devotes nearly half of his text to St. Paul. Beginning with chapter nine, Luke narrates Paul's change from persecutor to apostle and then relates how Paul subsequently became a Roman prisoner. St. Luke gives prominence to chains as a means of bracketing the transformation that Paul experienced. Luke begins his account with Paul brandishing chains. He closes his narrative with Paul being guarded in chains. We look at this close of the year of St. Paul from a Lukian perspective. Fr. Richard Cassidy is our guide.
5:20 – USCCB Meeting Review / Choosing a Patron Saint for Detroit
Archbishop Allen Vigneron joins us for his regular monthly segment. Today, we discuss the recently-completed USCCB Meeting as well as the Archdiocese of Detroit’s search for a patron saint.
5:00 – USCCB Pastoral Letter on Marriage- “Marriage: Love and Life in the Divine Plan”
The USCCB voted two weeks ago on the approval of a pastoral letter on marriage. The letter, “Love and Life in the Divine Plan,” was overwhelmingly approved and is an important component of the Bishops’ National Pastoral Initiative for Marriage that began in 2004. The pastoral letter is written with a broad and diverse audience in mind – ranging from young unmarried adults to married couples to those who offer pastoral ministries to those whose work informs and shapes opinion and public policy about marriage. The bishops write, “We address this pastoral letter first and foremost to the Catholic faithful in the United States. In a spirit of witness and service we also offer our message to all men and women in the hope of inspiring them to embrace this teaching.” We talk with Bishop Joseph Kurtz, who chairs the Committee that wrote this document.
5:20 – A Short History of the Crusades: Why Should Catholics Care?
Jonathan Riley-Smith tells the story of the Crusades as never before. He has written no less than 8 books that detail a comprehensive history that ranges from the preaching of the First Crusade in 1095 to the legacy of crusading ideals and imagery that continues today. We look at the ideas of apologists, propagandists, and poets about the Crusades, as well as the perceptions and motives of the crusaders themselves and the means by which they joined the movement. He joins us.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Michigan Catholic college posts Planned Parenthood job openings
The career and counseling services office of a Michigan Catholic college is publicizing a job opening at Planned Parenthood. Aquinas College’s career services office posted the position of registered nurse at Planned Parenthood on November 12; the phone number listed as a contact number is that of Planned Parenthood of West and Northern Michigan.Aquinas College’s career services office “aids students in identifying unique skills, abilities, interests, and values in order to establish productive career paths and goals.” Founded in 1922 by Dominican sisters, the Grand Rapids-based college has 2,159 students, 1,872 of whom are undergraduates.
In 2005, the college’s newsletter had urged readers to “check out the following job opportunity publications available in Career and Counseling Services … Planned Parenthood Centers of West Michigan, Vice President of Resource Development.”
Aquinas College in Grand Rapids is not associated with Aquinas College in Nashville or Thomas Aquinas College in California, both of which appear on the Cardinal Newman Society’s list of 21 faithful Catholic colleges.
Sandra Bullock: A blessing to meet, portray a real Christian
Actress Sandra Bullock says meeting Leigh Anne Tuohy, who she portrays in The Blind Side, showed her there really are some Christians who "walk the walk."The film, which opened the week before Thanksgiving, presents the true story of the Tuohys -- a well-off white family in Tennessee -- who welcome a homeless black youth into their home and then adopt him as their son. That young man, Michael Oher, became an All-American selection for Ole Miss and a first-round draft pick. He now plays for the NFL's Baltimore Ravens.
Bullock says thanks to the Tuohys, who attend Grace Evangelical Church in Memphis, she now has "faith in those who say they represent a faith." Getting to know Leigh Anne Tuohy, says the actress, showed her that religious faith can be authentic. "She was so open and honest and forthright," Bullock shares, "and I said, wow, I finally met someone who practices but doesn't preach."
Tuohy isn't like some hypocritical church-goers she's known, adds Bullock. "The beauty of Leigh Anne was one of my biggest questions was how people use their faith and their religion as a banner," she says. "And then they don't do the right thing, but they go 'I'm a good Christian and I go to church and this is the way you should live your life.'"
Bullock admits she was wary of Christians before she met the Tuohys. "Whereas...before I was like, do not give me a lecture on how to live my life when I know I'm a pretty decent human being," says the actress. "I might not go to church everyday, but I know I do the right thing or try to. You're going to church and you're still sleeping around on your wife...how are you better than I am? So I finally met people who walk the walk."
Leigh Anne Tuohy says she hopes The Blind Side inspires more people to help others. "You don't have to go out and bring a child into your home -- that's not what's required," says Tuohy. "But you can do something -- everybody is capable of doing something. So whatever your something is, do it well. Make a difference."
Oher's mom says she enforces a behavior code when she watches her adopted son play for the Baltimore Ravens. "I had to have a little 'come to Jesus' talk with my section at [the] Ravens' stadium," she says. "I had to explain to everyone that, okay, we're going to have a change of attitude. There is a two-drink limit, there is no cussing in this [section]. You don't know who you're sitting next to -- I'm a player's mom."
The Blind Side has earned more than $100 million dollars at the box office so far.
World AIDS Day
AIDS victims need effective compassion and a ‘message of conversion,’ Catholic Medical Association leader saysThe head of a Catholic medical organization says that World AIDS Day is a time to show “effective compassion” to those affected and to recall the Church’s leadership in helping AIDS victims. Lamenting the “unfair” criticisms of the Catholic response to AIDS, he advocated charity, scientific research and a “message of conversion” to combat the threat. Dr. John Brehany, Ph.D, Executive Director of the Catholic Medical Association (CMA) spoke with Catholic News Agency in a Monday interview.
He said that World AIDS Day is a time to remember those who suffer from AIDS and to reach out to them with “effective compassion.”
“The Church has been a leader on this,” Brehany commented, adding that the Church provides “not only hands-on caring, but a healing love.”
Catholics should remember that many people get AIDS in a variety of ways and compassion is needed for everyone. He added that scientific research is also important.
“The Church does affirm the legitimate and good role of human knowledge and science in preventing and effectively treating this very horrible disease.”
However, he told CNA, a religious response is needed as well.
“One of the most important things we can do is preach the necessity of converting to the truth,” Brehany said, emphasizing that a “message of conversion” is needed for everyone.
He advocated not being judgmental “in an improper way” but also called for conversion to the Gospel and not leading “the kind of life that is conducive towards either spreading or receiving AIDS.”
“I hope there will be a day we could all join together and acknowledge and support one another in these things.
“Unfortunately many times the Church’s efforts have been met by unfair criticism,” Brehany told CNA. “I hope that on a day like this the Church’s efforts can be acknowledged by everybody who is working together against this disease.”
CNA asked Brehany about the advocacy of condom use in AIDS prevention. He explained that the CMA is guided by the moral teachings of the Church and so has two points of criticism of such advocacy, ethical and scientific.
Catholics do not believe that the use of condoms is a truly ethical response to infection with AIDS, he explained.
He added that research has discredited the idea AIDS can be stopped with condom distribution, citing Harvard researcher Edward Green.
Green, the Senior Harvard Research Scientist for AIDS Prevention, in March told CNA that condom use is effective HIV/AIDS prevention only in certain limited cases. In his view, the advocacy of a reduction in the number of sexual partners, with a stress on fidelity and monogamy, is most generally effective.
Condom use is “not a prudent or practical way,” Brehany commented.
“Unfortunately the teachings and the approach of the church have been criticized and even blamed,” he told CNA on Monday.
Brehany also pointed to the African bishops’ World AIDS Day message as a good guide for Catholics
Today on Kresta - December 1, 2009
Talking about the "things that matter most" on Dec. 1
4:00 – The True St. Nicholas: Why He Matters to Christmas
When most of us hear the name "Saint Nicholas," we immediately think of Santa Claus. But if asked why Santa sometimes goes by this alias, we might be at a loss for a satisfactory answer. Too bad: the real St. Nicholas, a fourth-century bishop who may have attended the famous Council of Nicaea in 325, was a fascinating if elusive figure whose name has been invoked, and selfless deeds recounted, for hundreds of years. Now, in The True St. Nicholas, the bestselling author, radio talk-show host and former Secretary of Education William Bennett brings Saint Nicholas's story to life, and shows why it is still relevant today.
4:20 – The Devil’s Delusion: Atheism and it’s Scientific Pretentions
Militant atheism is on the rise. Richard Dawkins, Sam Harris, Daniel Dennett, and Christopher Hitchens have topped bestseller lists with books denigrating religious belief as dangerous foolishness. And these authors are merely the leading edge of a far larger movement–one that now includes much of the scientific community. A secular Jew, David Berlinski nonetheless delivers a biting defense of religious thought. An acclaimed author who has spent his career writing about mathematics and the sciences, he turns the scientific community’s cherished skepticism back on itself, daring to ask and answer some rather embarrassing questions. He joins us.
5:00 – “Peversion of power and trust” exposed in Dublin archdiocese handling of sex-abuse complaints
An independent commission's report on the handling of sex-abuse complaints with the Archdiocese of Dublin, exposing a pattern of misconduct within the Irish hierarchy, has provoked calls for the resignation of several bishops criticized in the report. The long-awaited report of the "Murphy Commission"-- named for Judge Yvonne Murphy, who chaired the effort-- was released on November 26. The exhaustive report, covering sex-abuse complaints between the years 1974 and 2004, fulfilled the prediction of Dublin's Archbishop Diarmuid Martin, who had warned that the faithful would find the material shocking. That could be called an understatement. We talk to Michael Kelly of the Irish Catholic.
5:20 – The 13th Day Released Today
FACT: Over 70,000 witnesses watched the sun spinning in the sky before plummeting towards the earth, in an extraordinary prophesized event, which became known as ‘The Miracle of the Sun’. In a world torn apart by persecution, war and oppression, 3 children were chosen to offer a message of hope to the world. Based on the memoirs of the oldest Seer, Lucia Santos, and many thousands of independent eye-witness accounts, the film The 13th Day dramatizes the TRUE story of three young shepherds who experienced six interactive apparitions with a “Lady from Heaven” between May and October 1917, which culminated into the final prophesized Miracle. It is being released today and we talk with Producer Natasha Howe and Ignatius Press Director of Marketing Tony Ryan.
5:30 – The Twilight Saga: New Moon AND 2012
The second film in the Twilight Saga, New Moon, came to theaters on November 20, and the hype was enormous. Early enthusiasm for the movie version of New Moon is only the latest confirmation of the Twilight Saga’s status as a full-fledged cultural phenomenon. Last year’s film Twilight, based on the first of Stephanie Meyer’s hugely popular tetralogy of gothic teen romances of vampire love, is currently the top-selling DVD of 2009, with over 9 million copies sold. Steven Greydanus is here with a review of New Moon.
5:40 – A Catholic View of Literary Classics – Part 9 of 10: The Scarlet Letter
We continue our 10-week series examining Classic Literature from a Catholic perspective. We will ensure that traditional moral readings of the works are given prominence, instead of the feminist or deconstructionist readings that often proliferate in other series of 'critical editions'. As such, they represent a genuine extension of consumer choice, enabling educators, students, and lovers of good literature to buy editions of classic literary works without having to 'buy into' the ideologies of secular fundamentalism. Today, we examine The Scarlet Letter with Ave Maria University Professor Mark McCullough.
4:00 – The True St. Nicholas: Why He Matters to Christmas
When most of us hear the name "Saint Nicholas," we immediately think of Santa Claus. But if asked why Santa sometimes goes by this alias, we might be at a loss for a satisfactory answer. Too bad: the real St. Nicholas, a fourth-century bishop who may have attended the famous Council of Nicaea in 325, was a fascinating if elusive figure whose name has been invoked, and selfless deeds recounted, for hundreds of years. Now, in The True St. Nicholas, the bestselling author, radio talk-show host and former Secretary of Education William Bennett brings Saint Nicholas's story to life, and shows why it is still relevant today.
4:20 – The Devil’s Delusion: Atheism and it’s Scientific Pretentions
Militant atheism is on the rise. Richard Dawkins, Sam Harris, Daniel Dennett, and Christopher Hitchens have topped bestseller lists with books denigrating religious belief as dangerous foolishness. And these authors are merely the leading edge of a far larger movement–one that now includes much of the scientific community. A secular Jew, David Berlinski nonetheless delivers a biting defense of religious thought. An acclaimed author who has spent his career writing about mathematics and the sciences, he turns the scientific community’s cherished skepticism back on itself, daring to ask and answer some rather embarrassing questions. He joins us.
5:00 – “Peversion of power and trust” exposed in Dublin archdiocese handling of sex-abuse complaints
An independent commission's report on the handling of sex-abuse complaints with the Archdiocese of Dublin, exposing a pattern of misconduct within the Irish hierarchy, has provoked calls for the resignation of several bishops criticized in the report. The long-awaited report of the "Murphy Commission"-- named for Judge Yvonne Murphy, who chaired the effort-- was released on November 26. The exhaustive report, covering sex-abuse complaints between the years 1974 and 2004, fulfilled the prediction of Dublin's Archbishop Diarmuid Martin, who had warned that the faithful would find the material shocking. That could be called an understatement. We talk to Michael Kelly of the Irish Catholic.
5:20 – The 13th Day Released Today
FACT: Over 70,000 witnesses watched the sun spinning in the sky before plummeting towards the earth, in an extraordinary prophesized event, which became known as ‘The Miracle of the Sun’. In a world torn apart by persecution, war and oppression, 3 children were chosen to offer a message of hope to the world. Based on the memoirs of the oldest Seer, Lucia Santos, and many thousands of independent eye-witness accounts, the film The 13th Day dramatizes the TRUE story of three young shepherds who experienced six interactive apparitions with a “Lady from Heaven” between May and October 1917, which culminated into the final prophesized Miracle. It is being released today and we talk with Producer Natasha Howe and Ignatius Press Director of Marketing Tony Ryan.
5:30 – The Twilight Saga: New Moon AND 2012
The second film in the Twilight Saga, New Moon, came to theaters on November 20, and the hype was enormous. Early enthusiasm for the movie version of New Moon is only the latest confirmation of the Twilight Saga’s status as a full-fledged cultural phenomenon. Last year’s film Twilight, based on the first of Stephanie Meyer’s hugely popular tetralogy of gothic teen romances of vampire love, is currently the top-selling DVD of 2009, with over 9 million copies sold. Steven Greydanus is here with a review of New Moon.
5:40 – A Catholic View of Literary Classics – Part 9 of 10: The Scarlet Letter
We continue our 10-week series examining Classic Literature from a Catholic perspective. We will ensure that traditional moral readings of the works are given prominence, instead of the feminist or deconstructionist readings that often proliferate in other series of 'critical editions'. As such, they represent a genuine extension of consumer choice, enabling educators, students, and lovers of good literature to buy editions of classic literary works without having to 'buy into' the ideologies of secular fundamentalism. Today, we examine The Scarlet Letter with Ave Maria University Professor Mark McCullough.
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