Longtime FOB Deacon Charles Rohrbacher in Alaska—a very gifted iconographer—sent me the image above with a note: It is the icon of Our Lady, Queen of Peace. I completed late last night. We’ll be praying with it tomorrow at the Cathedral as part of the Day of Prayer and Fasting for Peace in Syria. Our Lady, Queen of Peace, pray for Syria, pray for us! For more on icons, check out The Theology of Color in ONE magazine. Those who... Read more
This may be a first in the wedding announcements—and a tragic sign of our times. Details: A wedding announcement in The New York Times is a triumph for any couple, a place to tell the world about the tight bonds of their love and its manifestation in the romantic splurge of their wedding day. The Aug. 30 profile for Miami Heat player Udonis Haslem and his wife, Faith Rein, detailed a Vera Wang mermaid dress, chicken and waffles, a walk... Read more
A Prayer for the People of Syria Almighty eternal God, source of all compassion, the promise of your mercy and saving help fills our hearts with hope. Hear the cries of the people of Syria; bring healing to those suffering from the violence, and comfort to those mourning the dead. Empower and encourage Syria’s neighbors in their care and welcome for refugees. Convert the hearts of those who have taken up arms, and strengthen the resolve of those committed to... Read more
People attending a candlelight vigil in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican Oct. 11, 2012 marking the 50th anniversary of the opening of the Second Vatican Council. (photo: CNS/Paul Haring) From CNS: Here is a breakdown of what will be happening and when: 5:45 pm (Rome time) — About 50 priests will begin hearing confession in designated areas under the colonnade. The pope specifically wanted the Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation to be available at the event, the Vatican said, because “true peace... Read more
Given the pope’s penchant for calling anyone and everyone, I’m surprised there haven’t been more stories like this. Details: The Vatican firmly denied reports in France on Friday that Pope Francis had telephoned a young gay French Catholic to reassure him. Christophe Trutino had claimed in a newspaper interview the Pontiff had told him “Your homosexuality. It doesn’t matter” in a personal call. Father Lombardi, a spokesman for the Vatican “firmly denied” claims by the young gay Catholic that the... Read more
Who wouldn’t want to be remembered like this? A reader sent this my way, and it’s too good not to share. I love it. God bless you, “Pink.” From the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel: Mullaney, Mary A. “Pink” If you’re about to throw away an old pair of pantyhose, stop. Consider: Mary Agnes Mullaney (you probably knew her as “Pink”) who entered eternal life on Sunday, September 1, 2013. Her spirit is carried on by her six children, 17 grandchildren, three surviving... Read more
Take a look. You’ll get a glimpse of Your Humble Blogger, and the deacon I helped vest, Jeremy Canna. Congratulations again, guys! Click here to watch the video. Read more
Take a look. You’ll get a glimpse of Your Humble Blogger, and the deacon I helped vest, Jeremy Canna. Congratulations again, guys! Click here to watch the video. Read more
The USCCB president has written a letter to the U.S. president: September 4, 2013 President Barack Obama The White House Washington, DC 20270 Mr. President: As our nation contemplates military action in Syria, we want to assure you and your Administration of our prayers. We know that the situation in Syria is complex and appreciate the patience and restraint that your Administration has exercised to date. We affirm your decision to invite public dialogue and Congressional review of any possible... Read more
Check it out: “Praying for Peace in Syria.” This has very good videos and news items, including the latest on the situation in Syria and what Pope Francis and other Church leaders are saying. Pay a visit and check back often. It’s a helpful resource, and a smart move on the part of the USCCB media office. Kudos! Read more
The Deacon's Bench
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