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September 26, 2014Catholic News You Need to Know Today - Friday, September 26, 2014
“Pope Francis: Respond to ”globalization of migration“ with ”globalization of charity"", News.va
Pope Francis calls for “more decisive and constructive action” to deal with the phenomenon of migration, saying this will lead to “greater effectiveness in the fight against the shameful and criminal trafficking of human beings, the violation of fundamental rights, and all forms of violence, oppression and enslavement.” This is part of the Pope’s Message for the World Day of Migrants and Refugees, which is commemorated on January 18, 2015.
“Maybe Francis isn’t after a lurch to the left, but a new balance”, John Allen, Crux
Perhaps the best hypothesis is that what Francis is really after isn’t a turn to the left, but a new balance. He’s said he wants the church to be in dialogue with everyone, and one way to accomplish that is to ensure a mix of points of view in leadership positions. Pope John XXIII allegedly once said, “I have to be pope both for those with their foot on the gas, and those with their foot on the brake.” Though the saying may be apocryphal, the wisdom is spot-on, and Francis’ recent personnel moves seem to reflect some of the same thinking.
“Pope: Albania proves to world that diverse religions can live in peace”, Catholic News Service
People of different religious beliefs can and must live together in peace, Pope Francis said. The Muslim majority and Christian minorities in Albania cooperate beautifully for the common good and prove to the world that it can be done, he said. “I could see, with great satisfaction, that the peaceful and fruitful coexistence between people and communities belonging to different religions is not only beneficial, but is concretely possible and practical. They put it into practice” in Albania, he said.
“13 permanent deacons ordained for Boston”, The Boston Pilot
As he ordained 13 new permanent deacons at the Cathedral of the Holy Cross, Sept. 20, Cardinal Seán P. O’Malley recounted the history of the diaconate and his appreciation for their ministry. “In every diocese where I have worked, the presence of the dedicated permanent deacons has been such a great blessing. And so, it is truly a joy and a privilege to gather here for this ordination,” Cardinal O’Malley said.
“Public Safety Mass honors those who serve”, The Boston Pilot
Bagpipes flared and drums beat as law enforcement and emergency personnel led the procession into the Cathedral of the Holy Cross, Sept. 21, for the first Mass for Public Safety Personnel and Families held in 13 years to honor those who serve, especially those fallen in the line of duty.
“Hosting date nights a way for parishes to help couples keep bond strong”, Catholic News Service
For many Catholic married couples, the training they received for their vocation started and ended with the required marriage preparation classes they took as engaged couples. But as divorce rates remain steady and couples face numerous struggles in their marriages, some parishes are recognizing the need to give married couples more resources to navigate challenges or keep their love alive. One outreach is the simple notion of encouraging married couples to go on dates, which they might vaguely remember doing when they first met and long before their kids’ soccer or karate schedules, escalating bills, or sheer exhaustion took over.
