I have been impressed by every paragraph as to how great God is.
1 God, infinitely perfect and blessed in himself, in a plan of sheer goodness freely created man to make him share in his own blessed life. For this reason, at every time and in every place, God draws close to man. He calls man to seek him, to know him, to love him with all his strength. He calls together all men, scattered and divided by sin, into the unity of his family, the Church. To accomplish this, when the fullness of time had come, God sent his Son as Redeemer and Savior. In his Son and through him, he invites men to become, in the Holy Spirit, his adopted children and thus heirs of his blessed life.
Wow Wow Wow
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Fall Semester Returns
http://www.thecatholicthing.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2139&Itemid=2
By James V. Schall, S.J.
Americans, unlike the English, do not divide academic calendars into “Michaelmas,” “Hilary,” and “Trinity” terms. For us, it’s Fall or Spring Semester. We measure our lives by the cosmic cycles, not by the drama of salvation.
A Robert Frost poem begins: “The bearer of evil tidings, / When he was halfway there, / Remembered that evil tidings / Were a dangerous thing to bear.”
When we talk of our universities, do we bring “evil tidings?” Bernard Shaw once said: “Youth is such a wonderful thing; it’s a crime to waste it on children.”
Not long ago, Robert Royal remarked that the generation of those whose own parents did not themselves go to college is almost over. Wendell Berry thinks that the dissolution of stable families and communities begins when we send our children to college.
Is there mind without college? Is there mind with college?
What’s it all about, this college business? Of late, I have seen high school plants that simply have every physical facility imaginable. Likewise we see colleges that, for a small fee or via the taxpayer, provide all the heart could desire.
All studies show, however, that about the least “diverse” places politically and intellectually in our culture are the universities. True affirmative action does not touch this ideologically closed shop.
Catholics originally entered the university business to have a platform from which they were free to state what they held and the reasons why they held it. They professed a quaint “diversity” that could be found nowhere else. This peculiar diversity has largely disappeared.
In a brilliant, too little known essay in Modern Age, in 1987, Frederick Wilhelmsen wrote:
Aristotle insisted that philosophy is the highest instance of the life of leisure, but there is no leisure for boys and girls who are expected to gorge themselves on three thousand years of texts and then regurgitate them come examination day. To remember all the data, as suggested, leaves no time for judgment. Yet judgment, says St. Thomas, is the mark of the philosopher of being and the philosopher of being is the Philosopher (328).
Wilhelmsen was concerned with what Leo Strauss also would worry about, namely, that the “Great Books” programs, which took the place of scholasticism, produced mostly skeptics. The history of philosophy took the place of philosophy and left the mind confused.
Students graduated who knew the names of “thinkers.” They did not know themselves how to think. It did not come automatically from reading “Great Books.” One ought to read Descartes. One ought not to end up doubting his own power to know. But he can only do the latter if he knows enough philosophy to deal with the former. The fact is that philosophy as such is taught in very few places among us.
The best way to learn the truth of this proposition is to read Robert Sokolowski’s The Phenomenology of the Human Person. The title is a mouthful, but Sokolowski takes the mind step by step in the direction of, yes, judgment. The method of philosophy, he says, is to “make distinctions,” to say that this is not that, and to state why.
“Philosophy is not the reading of books; philosophy is not the contemplation of nature, philosophy is not the phenomenology of personal experience; philosophy is not its history,” Wilhelmsen wrote in a striking passage. “These are indispensable tools aiding a man to come to know the things that are. But that knowing is precisely knowing and nothing else. We once were given this, not too long ago, in the American Catholic academy. With a few honorable exceptions, we are given it no longer.”
Philosophy ultimately exists in conversation. It needs to be, as Wilhelmsen put it, “talked into existence.” But it first must be “thought” into existence.
When Monica and Patrick sent the young Augustine off to Carthage, they sent him into moral quagmire. Today’s Monicas and Patricks, as Mary Eberstadt has written in The Catholic Thing, are probably sending their offspring into a worse sink, where the phrase “sink or swim” takes on a special meaning.
Can we prepare the eager incoming classes for Fall Semester? Well, yes, they can defiantly read what they will never be assigned. I would begin with a man by the name of Ratzinger, the equal of whom can be found on no academic faculty I know of. But no one will say this. And, as David Walsh has told us, the philosophers are seeking being and its luminosity.
As one of C. S. Lewis’ devils said to the young atheist, “Be very careful what you read.” I have always liked that young devil. I know numerous books that the young atheist should never touch, lest he be tempted, as Plato said, to “turn his soul around.”
James V. Schall, S.J., a professor at Georgetown University, is one of the most prolific Catholic writers in America. His most recent book is The Mind That Is Catholic.
By James V. Schall, S.J.
Americans, unlike the English, do not divide academic calendars into “Michaelmas,” “Hilary,” and “Trinity” terms. For us, it’s Fall or Spring Semester. We measure our lives by the cosmic cycles, not by the drama of salvation.
A Robert Frost poem begins: “The bearer of evil tidings, / When he was halfway there, / Remembered that evil tidings / Were a dangerous thing to bear.”
When we talk of our universities, do we bring “evil tidings?” Bernard Shaw once said: “Youth is such a wonderful thing; it’s a crime to waste it on children.”
Not long ago, Robert Royal remarked that the generation of those whose own parents did not themselves go to college is almost over. Wendell Berry thinks that the dissolution of stable families and communities begins when we send our children to college.
Is there mind without college? Is there mind with college?
What’s it all about, this college business? Of late, I have seen high school plants that simply have every physical facility imaginable. Likewise we see colleges that, for a small fee or via the taxpayer, provide all the heart could desire.
All studies show, however, that about the least “diverse” places politically and intellectually in our culture are the universities. True affirmative action does not touch this ideologically closed shop.
Catholics originally entered the university business to have a platform from which they were free to state what they held and the reasons why they held it. They professed a quaint “diversity” that could be found nowhere else. This peculiar diversity has largely disappeared.
In a brilliant, too little known essay in Modern Age, in 1987, Frederick Wilhelmsen wrote:
Aristotle insisted that philosophy is the highest instance of the life of leisure, but there is no leisure for boys and girls who are expected to gorge themselves on three thousand years of texts and then regurgitate them come examination day. To remember all the data, as suggested, leaves no time for judgment. Yet judgment, says St. Thomas, is the mark of the philosopher of being and the philosopher of being is the Philosopher (328).
Wilhelmsen was concerned with what Leo Strauss also would worry about, namely, that the “Great Books” programs, which took the place of scholasticism, produced mostly skeptics. The history of philosophy took the place of philosophy and left the mind confused.
Students graduated who knew the names of “thinkers.” They did not know themselves how to think. It did not come automatically from reading “Great Books.” One ought to read Descartes. One ought not to end up doubting his own power to know. But he can only do the latter if he knows enough philosophy to deal with the former. The fact is that philosophy as such is taught in very few places among us.
The best way to learn the truth of this proposition is to read Robert Sokolowski’s The Phenomenology of the Human Person. The title is a mouthful, but Sokolowski takes the mind step by step in the direction of, yes, judgment. The method of philosophy, he says, is to “make distinctions,” to say that this is not that, and to state why.
“Philosophy is not the reading of books; philosophy is not the contemplation of nature, philosophy is not the phenomenology of personal experience; philosophy is not its history,” Wilhelmsen wrote in a striking passage. “These are indispensable tools aiding a man to come to know the things that are. But that knowing is precisely knowing and nothing else. We once were given this, not too long ago, in the American Catholic academy. With a few honorable exceptions, we are given it no longer.”
Philosophy ultimately exists in conversation. It needs to be, as Wilhelmsen put it, “talked into existence.” But it first must be “thought” into existence.
When Monica and Patrick sent the young Augustine off to Carthage, they sent him into moral quagmire. Today’s Monicas and Patricks, as Mary Eberstadt has written in The Catholic Thing, are probably sending their offspring into a worse sink, where the phrase “sink or swim” takes on a special meaning.
Can we prepare the eager incoming classes for Fall Semester? Well, yes, they can defiantly read what they will never be assigned. I would begin with a man by the name of Ratzinger, the equal of whom can be found on no academic faculty I know of. But no one will say this. And, as David Walsh has told us, the philosophers are seeking being and its luminosity.
As one of C. S. Lewis’ devils said to the young atheist, “Be very careful what you read.” I have always liked that young devil. I know numerous books that the young atheist should never touch, lest he be tempted, as Plato said, to “turn his soul around.”
James V. Schall, S.J., a professor at Georgetown University, is one of the most prolific Catholic writers in America. His most recent book is The Mind That Is Catholic.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Ask a Catholic a Question 2.0
http://marysaggies.blogspot.com/2009/07/ask-catholic-question-manual.html
Mary's Aggies are at it again.
Mary's Aggies are at it again.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
New blog
encyclicals.blogspot.com
Summaries of encyclicals and other Church documents in their own words. For the sparknote generation and those looking for a good refresher.
Hopefully, soon audio encyclicals. I can go through two audio books a week, and I'm sure many could listen to encyclicals who would have trouble making time to read them.
In a nut shell, new evangelization.
Summaries of encyclicals and other Church documents in their own words. For the sparknote generation and those looking for a good refresher.
Hopefully, soon audio encyclicals. I can go through two audio books a week, and I'm sure many could listen to encyclicals who would have trouble making time to read them.
In a nut shell, new evangelization.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Dirty Deca
tip of the hat to http://marysaggies.blogspot.com/
for this link
http://www.ncregister.com/daily/10_abortion-promoting_catholic_colleges/
A sad testimony to the religious orders, dioceses and alumni...
Boston College - recommends opportunities for students to work ‘pro bono’ for the Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts.
College of St. Benedict & St. John’s University - the school’s Gender and Women’s Studies program promotes internship opportunities with the pro-abortion Feminist Majority Foundation and organizations supporting same-sex marriage.
DePaul University - the institution’s Women’s and Gender Studies program offers credit for internships, noting that students have interned with abortion provider Planned Parenthood and the Chicago Women’s Health Center, which offers emergency contraceptive services and alternative insemination for “lesbians, bisexual, and queer couples, single women of any sexual orientation, and trans people.”
Georgetown University - permits students to receive universityfunding for interning at abortion advocacy organizations.
Loyola University of Chicago - their website lists opportunities for internships and volunteer opportunities at Chicago’s National Organization for Women, the Feminist Majority Foundation, Planned Parenthood, and the Chicago Abortion Fund.
St. Edward’s University - has allowed students to work at NARAL Pro-Choice Texas to fulfill a “Community Service in Women’s Studies” credit requirement.
St. Norbert College - - the college’s Women’s and Gender Studies program recommends internships at several pro-abortion and same-sex marriage promoting organizations, including NOW, Legal Momentum, Planned Parenthood, the National Women’s Health Network, the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force and PFLAG.
University of Notre Dame - the university’s Gender Studies program offers internships for academic credit at places such as the National Organization for Women.
University of San Francisco - the school’s Media Studies program has promoted internships with the California Abortion and Reproductive Rights Action League and Girlfriends Magazine.
for this link
http://www.ncregister.com/daily/10_abortion-promoting_catholic_colleges/
A sad testimony to the religious orders, dioceses and alumni...
Boston College - recommends opportunities for students to work ‘pro bono’ for the Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts.
College of St. Benedict & St. John’s University - the school’s Gender and Women’s Studies program promotes internship opportunities with the pro-abortion Feminist Majority Foundation and organizations supporting same-sex marriage.
DePaul University - the institution’s Women’s and Gender Studies program offers credit for internships, noting that students have interned with abortion provider Planned Parenthood and the Chicago Women’s Health Center, which offers emergency contraceptive services and alternative insemination for “lesbians, bisexual, and queer couples, single women of any sexual orientation, and trans people.”
Georgetown University - permits students to receive universityfunding for interning at abortion advocacy organizations.
Loyola University of Chicago - their website lists opportunities for internships and volunteer opportunities at Chicago’s National Organization for Women, the Feminist Majority Foundation, Planned Parenthood, and the Chicago Abortion Fund.
St. Edward’s University - has allowed students to work at NARAL Pro-Choice Texas to fulfill a “Community Service in Women’s Studies” credit requirement.
St. Norbert College - - the college’s Women’s and Gender Studies program recommends internships at several pro-abortion and same-sex marriage promoting organizations, including NOW, Legal Momentum, Planned Parenthood, the National Women’s Health Network, the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force and PFLAG.
University of Notre Dame - the university’s Gender Studies program offers internships for academic credit at places such as the National Organization for Women.
University of San Francisco - the school’s Media Studies program has promoted internships with the California Abortion and Reproductive Rights Action League and Girlfriends Magazine.
Monday, June 22, 2009
The Seminary and the Catholic University
The seminaries I have had the pleasure of visiting, have made formation a high priority. The models seminaries use can be found outside of the seminary in a few Catholic Universities and attempts have been made to emulate the ideas of the seminary in the chapel/student center of a few public universities. The ideas include:
segregated Catholic dorms (with adoration chapel),
daily mass (mandated),
communal divine office,
assigned spiritual direction,
preparation for adult-faith,
communal dining with spiritual reading,
dress codes,
catechism classes,
opportunity for Reconciliation.
Should not some of these ideas be applied at every university?
If a seminarian needs a catechism class how much more everyone else,
If a seminarian needs a spiritual director how much more everyone else,
some ideas may be impractical or not ideal.
Remember
Sacraments
Catechisis
Community
Evangelism
Practise
segregated Catholic dorms (with adoration chapel),
daily mass (mandated),
communal divine office,
assigned spiritual direction,
preparation for adult-faith,
communal dining with spiritual reading,
dress codes,
catechism classes,
opportunity for Reconciliation.
Should not some of these ideas be applied at every university?
If a seminarian needs a catechism class how much more everyone else,
If a seminarian needs a spiritual director how much more everyone else,
some ideas may be impractical or not ideal.
Remember
Sacraments
Catechisis
Community
Evangelism
Practise
Friday, June 19, 2009
Free speech on the university
http://opinionatedcatholic.blogspot.com/2009/06/free-speech-and-responding-to-anti.html
for the link
and read the article below
http://insidecatholic.com/Joomla/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=6254&Itemid=48
A Catholic professor's great response to bigotry.
for the link
and read the article below
http://insidecatholic.com/Joomla/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=6254&Itemid=48
A Catholic professor's great response to bigotry.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Faith, Reason and the University - Memories and Reflections
Pope Benedict XVI
Ragensburgh
Once a semester there was a dies academicus, when professors from every faculty appeared before the students of the entire university, making possible a genuine experience of universita. the experience, in other words, of the fact that despite our specializations which at times make it difficult to communicate with each other, we made up a whole, working in everything on the basis of a single rationality with its various aspects and sharing responsibility for the right use of reason - this reality became a lived experience.
even in the face of such radical scepticism it is still necessary and reasonable to raise the question of God through the use of reason, and to do so in the context of the tradition of the Christian faith: this, within the university as a whole, was accepted without question.
theology rightly belongs in the university and within the wide-ranging dialogue of sciences, not merely as a historical discipline and one of the human sciences, but precisely as theology, as inquiry into the rationality of faith.
Only thus do we become capable of that genuine dialogue of cultures and religions so urgently needed today.
the world's profoundly religious cultures see this exclusion of the divine from the universality of reason as an attack on their most profound convictions.
"Not to act reasonably, not to act with logos, is contrary to the nature of God", said Manuel II, according to his Christian understanding of God, in response to his Persian interlocutor. It is to this great logos, to this breadth of reason, that we invite our partners in the dialogue of cultures. To rediscover it constantly is the great task of the university.
Ragensburgh
Once a semester there was a dies academicus, when professors from every faculty appeared before the students of the entire university, making possible a genuine experience of universita. the experience, in other words, of the fact that despite our specializations which at times make it difficult to communicate with each other, we made up a whole, working in everything on the basis of a single rationality with its various aspects and sharing responsibility for the right use of reason - this reality became a lived experience.
even in the face of such radical scepticism it is still necessary and reasonable to raise the question of God through the use of reason, and to do so in the context of the tradition of the Christian faith: this, within the university as a whole, was accepted without question.
theology rightly belongs in the university and within the wide-ranging dialogue of sciences, not merely as a historical discipline and one of the human sciences, but precisely as theology, as inquiry into the rationality of faith.
Only thus do we become capable of that genuine dialogue of cultures and religions so urgently needed today.
the world's profoundly religious cultures see this exclusion of the divine from the universality of reason as an attack on their most profound convictions.
"Not to act reasonably, not to act with logos, is contrary to the nature of God", said Manuel II, according to his Christian understanding of God, in response to his Persian interlocutor. It is to this great logos, to this breadth of reason, that we invite our partners in the dialogue of cultures. To rediscover it constantly is the great task of the university.
Quote
http://www.catholicculture.org/commentary/blog.cfm?id=206&repos=6&subrepos=2&searchid=479718
from last year
A university is worthless if it cannot provide the necessary atmosphere for seeking truth through a serious engagement with ideas.
from last year
A university is worthless if it cannot provide the necessary atmosphere for seeking truth through a serious engagement with ideas.
Oldie but a goodie
Pope stresses need for university chaplains (Subscribe to RSS Feed)
May. 01, 1998
http://www.catholicculture.org/news/features/index.cfm?recnum=7532&repos=4&subrepos=1&searchid=479718
In a talk to chaplains studying at the University of Rome, Pope John Paul II said that Western society-- although rich in material goods-- betrays a real spiritual poverty.
The Holy Father stressed the importance of pastoral work among university students, pointing out that when there are no spiritual principles to guide the work of the affluent and educated-- in "a culture which exalts the individual to an absolute degree, and does not encourage solidarity"-- there is a risk that authority and power will be abused, so that they lead to "domination of the weak by the strong.
"The university chapel is called to be the vital center of the promotion of a renewal in Christian culture," the Pope said. He urged the chaplains to redouble their efforts to instill a sense of Christian purpose in the midst of academic training.
May. 01, 1998
http://www.catholicculture.org/news/features/index.cfm?recnum=7532&repos=4&subrepos=1&searchid=479718
In a talk to chaplains studying at the University of Rome, Pope John Paul II said that Western society-- although rich in material goods-- betrays a real spiritual poverty.
The Holy Father stressed the importance of pastoral work among university students, pointing out that when there are no spiritual principles to guide the work of the affluent and educated-- in "a culture which exalts the individual to an absolute degree, and does not encourage solidarity"-- there is a risk that authority and power will be abused, so that they lead to "domination of the weak by the strong.
"The university chapel is called to be the vital center of the promotion of a renewal in Christian culture," the Pope said. He urged the chaplains to redouble their efforts to instill a sense of Christian purpose in the midst of academic training.
What Is a Catholic University?
http://www.catholicculture.org/culture/library/view.cfm?id=8167&repos=1&subrepos=0&searchid=479718
Cardinal Francis Arinze
1. A Day of Grace
The Eucharistic Celebration is our supreme act of worship of God. It is the highest tribute of thanksgiving which the Church can offer to our Creator. It is therefore very fitting that on the Fifth Sunday of Easter, Christendom concludes its celebration of its 30th Anniversary with this Solemn Mass.
As we gather at this Mass, we are in spiritual union with the Vicar of Christ, Pope Benedict XVI, who is at this time celebrating the Holy Eucharist
Brothers and Sisters in Christ, for thirty years Christendom College has given distinguished service as an authentic academic institution. It has performed admirably to live, to show and to share its Catholic character. And it has educated citizens that are a credit to Church and society. These will now be the points for our reflection.
2. An Authentic University or College
A university or college is expected to be a centre of studies and research, a community of teachers and students who are engaged in the joint love and pursuit of knowledge, and an institution which is at the service of the wider society.
Christendom College has admirably fulfilled this role. As a liberal arts college, it has given dynamic leadership to its students on how to discover the true, the good and the beautiful, and how to pursue these goods which are so deserving in themselves. The students are educated to work hard to be free and to remain free persons by disciplining themselves to choose the good, both for themselves and for others. This is the avenue that leads to becoming men and women of virtue, of justice, of prudence, of temperance, of fortitude and of knowledge. This leads to true wisdom. The students are taught not to be afraid of the truth, of reality.
...
3. A Catholic College or University
Christendom College is above all a Catholic educational institution. It does not just give proof of a rigorously serious member of the national and international community of knowledge and research. It importantly expresses its Catholic identity through an explicit profession of the Catholic Faith, and through studies given unity and a sense of direction by sound philosophy and authentic Catholic theology.
The College knows that the true, the good and the beautiful is finally God himself. And God has manifested himself to us in his Word made flesh, Jesus Christ. The splendour of divine truth, goodness and beauty shines forth in Christ. In the Gospel just read, Jesus tells us: “I am the Way, the Truth and the Life. No one can come to the Father except through me” (Jn. 14:6). If we follow the light of Christ, we shall have true freedom and be able to arrive at wisdom. “If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free” (Jn. 8:31-32).
A genuine Catholic university or college, therefore, distinguishes itself by developing and showing a harmonious relationship between faith and reason. Revealed truth and truths acquired by human reason and experience both come from the same God. They do not, and cannot, contradict each other. As the First Vatican Council says: “Though faith is above reason, there can never be any real discrepancy between faith and reason. Since the same God who reveals mysteries and infuses faith has bestowed the light of reason on the human mind, God cannot deny himself, nor can truth ever contradict truth” ("Dei Filius," 4: DS 3017).
For this reason the Second Vatican Council encourages this harmony and therefore the contribution of a Catholic university or college under the light of the Christian revelation. It says: “Therefore, if methodical investigation within every branch of learning is carried out in a genuinely scientific manner and in accord with moral norms, it never truly conflicts with faith. For earthly matters and the concerns of faith derive from the same God. Indeed, whoever labours to penetrate the secrets of reality with a humble and steady mind, is, even unawares, being led by the hand of God, who holds all things in existence, and gives them their identity” ("Gaudium et Spes," 38: cf also Catechism of the Catholic Church, 159).
All this means that a Catholic university or college would have abandoned its identity and specific role if it did not allow the light of the Catholic faith to bear on such areas of study as history, psychology, ethics and the humanities in general; if it did not see the necessity of reference to higher truths or morality as authoritatively interpreted by the Magisterium; if, in short, it did not allow theology to be a core subject.
A Catholic university, says the Servant of God, Pope John Paul II, needs to develop “courageous creativity and rigorous fidelity” ("Ex Corde Ecclesiae," 8). “While each discipline is taught systematically and according to its own methods, interdisciplinary studies, assisted by a careful and thorough study of philosophy and theology, enable students to acquire an organic vision of reality and to develop a continuing desire for intellectual progress” ("Ex Corde Ecclesiae," 20). Pope Benedict XVI spoke on 4/17/08 of the duty of intellectual charity towards the students by their educators (cf. p. 6 of his "Address to Catholic Educators").
We thank God that Christendom College has for thirty years rendered this service.
4. Alumni, a Credit to Christendom College
The alumni are a credit to Christendom College. By their fruits you shall know them (cf Mt 7:16). The College has equipped its students to ask fundamental questions: Where do we come from? Why do we exist? Where are we going? How can we get there? What have great men and women done in the past in their response? What does our Catholic faith teach us?
Is it any surprise that the students learn to be the salt of the earth, the leaven in society, lamps set on a lampstand, a city set on a hill, or, in brief, children of light (cf Mt 5:13-16; Jn 12:36)?
They therefore want to contribute to make this world a better place. They reject negativity and a withdrawal syndrome attitude towards society. They get involved. They work to build on what past generations have handed on to them and because they are Christians, they are people of hope which is finally based on Jesus the Saviour, who gives meaning, synthesis and a sense of direction to our life endeavours (cf "Spe Salvi," 27).
I am informed that there is a total of 53 priests and 45 monastics, religious sisters and brothers originating from this institution. This is eloquent testimony to the service which Christendom College has rendered to Church and society.
5. A Prayer
...
Cardinal Francis Arinze
1. A Day of Grace
The Eucharistic Celebration is our supreme act of worship of God. It is the highest tribute of thanksgiving which the Church can offer to our Creator. It is therefore very fitting that on the Fifth Sunday of Easter, Christendom concludes its celebration of its 30th Anniversary with this Solemn Mass.
As we gather at this Mass, we are in spiritual union with the Vicar of Christ, Pope Benedict XVI, who is at this time celebrating the Holy Eucharist
Brothers and Sisters in Christ, for thirty years Christendom College has given distinguished service as an authentic academic institution. It has performed admirably to live, to show and to share its Catholic character. And it has educated citizens that are a credit to Church and society. These will now be the points for our reflection.
2. An Authentic University or College
A university or college is expected to be a centre of studies and research, a community of teachers and students who are engaged in the joint love and pursuit of knowledge, and an institution which is at the service of the wider society.
Christendom College has admirably fulfilled this role. As a liberal arts college, it has given dynamic leadership to its students on how to discover the true, the good and the beautiful, and how to pursue these goods which are so deserving in themselves. The students are educated to work hard to be free and to remain free persons by disciplining themselves to choose the good, both for themselves and for others. This is the avenue that leads to becoming men and women of virtue, of justice, of prudence, of temperance, of fortitude and of knowledge. This leads to true wisdom. The students are taught not to be afraid of the truth, of reality.
...
3. A Catholic College or University
Christendom College is above all a Catholic educational institution. It does not just give proof of a rigorously serious member of the national and international community of knowledge and research. It importantly expresses its Catholic identity through an explicit profession of the Catholic Faith, and through studies given unity and a sense of direction by sound philosophy and authentic Catholic theology.
The College knows that the true, the good and the beautiful is finally God himself. And God has manifested himself to us in his Word made flesh, Jesus Christ. The splendour of divine truth, goodness and beauty shines forth in Christ. In the Gospel just read, Jesus tells us: “I am the Way, the Truth and the Life. No one can come to the Father except through me” (Jn. 14:6). If we follow the light of Christ, we shall have true freedom and be able to arrive at wisdom. “If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free” (Jn. 8:31-32).
A genuine Catholic university or college, therefore, distinguishes itself by developing and showing a harmonious relationship between faith and reason. Revealed truth and truths acquired by human reason and experience both come from the same God. They do not, and cannot, contradict each other. As the First Vatican Council says: “Though faith is above reason, there can never be any real discrepancy between faith and reason. Since the same God who reveals mysteries and infuses faith has bestowed the light of reason on the human mind, God cannot deny himself, nor can truth ever contradict truth” ("Dei Filius," 4: DS 3017).
For this reason the Second Vatican Council encourages this harmony and therefore the contribution of a Catholic university or college under the light of the Christian revelation. It says: “Therefore, if methodical investigation within every branch of learning is carried out in a genuinely scientific manner and in accord with moral norms, it never truly conflicts with faith. For earthly matters and the concerns of faith derive from the same God. Indeed, whoever labours to penetrate the secrets of reality with a humble and steady mind, is, even unawares, being led by the hand of God, who holds all things in existence, and gives them their identity” ("Gaudium et Spes," 38: cf also Catechism of the Catholic Church, 159).
All this means that a Catholic university or college would have abandoned its identity and specific role if it did not allow the light of the Catholic faith to bear on such areas of study as history, psychology, ethics and the humanities in general; if it did not see the necessity of reference to higher truths or morality as authoritatively interpreted by the Magisterium; if, in short, it did not allow theology to be a core subject.
A Catholic university, says the Servant of God, Pope John Paul II, needs to develop “courageous creativity and rigorous fidelity” ("Ex Corde Ecclesiae," 8). “While each discipline is taught systematically and according to its own methods, interdisciplinary studies, assisted by a careful and thorough study of philosophy and theology, enable students to acquire an organic vision of reality and to develop a continuing desire for intellectual progress” ("Ex Corde Ecclesiae," 20). Pope Benedict XVI spoke on 4/17/08 of the duty of intellectual charity towards the students by their educators (cf. p. 6 of his "Address to Catholic Educators").
We thank God that Christendom College has for thirty years rendered this service.
4. Alumni, a Credit to Christendom College
The alumni are a credit to Christendom College. By their fruits you shall know them (cf Mt 7:16). The College has equipped its students to ask fundamental questions: Where do we come from? Why do we exist? Where are we going? How can we get there? What have great men and women done in the past in their response? What does our Catholic faith teach us?
Is it any surprise that the students learn to be the salt of the earth, the leaven in society, lamps set on a lampstand, a city set on a hill, or, in brief, children of light (cf Mt 5:13-16; Jn 12:36)?
They therefore want to contribute to make this world a better place. They reject negativity and a withdrawal syndrome attitude towards society. They get involved. They work to build on what past generations have handed on to them and because they are Christians, they are people of hope which is finally based on Jesus the Saviour, who gives meaning, synthesis and a sense of direction to our life endeavours (cf "Spe Salvi," 27).
I am informed that there is a total of 53 priests and 45 monastics, religious sisters and brothers originating from this institution. This is eloquent testimony to the service which Christendom College has rendered to Church and society.
5. A Prayer
...
At University: Increase Knowledge, Deepen Faith
http://www.catholicculture.org/culture/library/view.cfm?id=8112&repos=1&subrepos=0&searchid=479718
a lengthy passage, but difficult to cut much out check link for full document
Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone
a true training ground for life.
Research, teaching and the study of the philosophical, theological and juridical sciences have sustained generations of young people, who with the education they received have carried out their ministry, making the Church's unity and catholicity visible in the most disparate parts of the earth.
the genuine exercise of "intellectual charity" — to borrow an expression from Bl. Antonio Rosmini — can truly be a path to holiness and an effective method for making the Gospel vibrant for our contemporaries.
The generations of students change with the evolution of history and culture.
Besides, this is what Benedict XVI said in this very same lecture hall last year, during his inaugural Visit of 21 October [2006].
Science must benefit man
"In the University the young generations are formed who await a serious, demanding proposal, capable of responding in new contexts to the perennial question on the meaning of our existence. This expectation must not be disappointed.
"The contemporary context seems to give primacy to an artificial intelligence that becomes ever more dominated by experimental techniques, and in this way forgets that all science must always safeguard man and promote his aspiration for the authentic good.
"To overrate 'doing', obscuring 'being', does not help to recompose the fundamental balance that everyone needs in order to give their own existence a solid foundation and valid goal" (Address at Lateran University for the Opening of the Academic Year, 21 October 2006; L'Osservatore Romano English edition [ORE], 1 November, p. 3).
A consciousness of the need for education is therefore felt with particular urgency in these years that mark the inevitable evolution of cultural conditions, from which derives behaviour that is all too often in sharp contrast with what in previous decades marked the lives of entire generations.
The memory of the past must be a support and an incentive, not only for living the present but above all to assure our young people a future full of meaning and responsibility.
Moreover, a real future will never be possible unless the past and its tradition are preserved. As a son of St John Bosco, I feel personally the need for the formation of youth.
Don Bosco used to say that formation must be supported by three strong points: reason, religion and lovingness. "Reason and religion", he wrote in his famous short Trattatello sul sistema preventivo [Treatise on the preventive system], "are instruments of which the educator must make constant use, teaching them and practicing them himself if he wishes to be obeyed and to achieve his goal".
With the preventive system, Don Bosco explained, the educator "makes a friend of the pupil . . . in such a way as to speak with the language of the heart, both during the period of education and after it . . . wherever these students go, they are generally a comfort to their families, useful citizens and good Christians".
he was able to keep faith, reason and love bound together as a practical means for change and the basis of all true pedagogy.
In thinking of the students who attended the Pope's university, we are, as it were, under the obligation to focus our attention more directly on the teaching that Benedict XVI has dedicated especially to you young people in recent years.
Man, a traveller by nature
In his first Greeting at the 20th World Youth Day in Cologne on 18 August 2005, the Pope urged you to "set out on the journey" (Arrival Address, 18 August 2005; ORE, 24 August, p. 3).
follow the star that points to the destination we must reach; this comet must sooner or later come to rest over the Grotto of Bethlehem.
Here, at last, we will discover God's presence in our history and our personal life. Indeed, the mystery of the Incarnation of the Son of God is the true centre of our faith.
Unfortunately, we know so many young people who are wandering. They squander the most beautiful years of their lives chasing fleeting illusions that will never be able to give consistency to the development of a mature personality.
Benedict XVI, on the other hand, challenges them to become the protagonists of their own lives through acts of genuine freedom.
In this situation, how is it possible to forget the Pope's words on 18 August 2005 in his Welcome Address at the Poller Rheinwiesen Wharf: "Open wide your hearts to God! Let yourselves be surprised by Christ! Let him have 'the right of free speech' . . . Open the doors of your freedom to his merciful love!" (ORE, 24 August 2005, p. 4).
It is truly beautiful to believe that Christ has an inalienable right to speak to each one of you, to come to meet you and to exhort everyone to give a free response of faith.
In some ways we are all contemporaries of Jesus of Nazareth; he still passes on our streets, visits our towns and asks to stay at our homes. Everything depends on our willingness to grasp his presence and hear his voice.
If we are caught up in the din and frenzy, it becomes hard to perceive his closeness and our greatest risk is to be emptied and no longer to contain anything that gives life depth.
"Religion often becomes almost a consumer product. People choose what they like, and some are even able to make a profit from it. But religion sought on a 'do it yourself' basis cannot ultimately help us. It may be comfortable, but at times of crisis we are left to ourselves. Help people to discover the true star which points out the way to us: Jesus Christ. Let us seek to know him better and better, so as to be able to guide others to him with conviction" (21 August 2005; ORE, 24 August, p. 12).
Knowing, proclaiming Christ
Knowing Christ "with conviction" demands both concentrated study and a passion for the content.
You are responsible, in the first place, for knowing the Person of Jesus Christ so that you can become convincing witnesses among your peers to your discovery of life's meaning.
The request to find Christ through study rather than through experience and prayer might appear misleading. Yet not one of us can forget that faith has a logic of its own and imposes its own rules.
Just as a consistent witness is decisive and prayer indispensable, so knowledge is crucial.
Without being acquainted with the Person of Jesus Christ it becomes difficult to love him; if his teaching does not stay alive how is it possible to imagine living as his disciples?
While the time we spend at university helps us to grasp the intricacy of the different branches of knowledge, it prepares us at the same time for a conscious deepening of what we believe. This enables us to live in the world as free people.
To exercise freedom, however, it is necessary to retain the amazement and wonder of those who continually discover horizons to investigate because they are fascinated by the mystery.
"Where do I find", the Pope said on 18 August 2005, "standards to live by, what are the criteria that govern responsible cooperation in building the present and the future of our world? On whom can I rely? To whom shall I entrust myself? Where is the One who can offer me the response capable of satisfying my heart's deepest desires?" (Welcome Address, 18 August 2005, Cologne; ORE, 24 August, p. 4).
To be truly free, it is necessary to be able to embody humility.
The Pope said: "Do not follow the way of pride but rather that of humility. Go against the tide: do not listen to the interested and persuasive voices that today are peddling on many sides models of life marked by arrogance and violence, by oppression and success at any cost, by appearances and by having at the expense of being . . . Be alert! Be critical!
"Do not follow the wave produced by this powerful, persuasive action. Do not be afraid, dear friends, to prefer the 'alternative' routes pointed out by true love: a modest and sound lifestyle; sincere and pure emotional relationships; honest commitment in studies and work; deep concern for the common good.
"Do not be afraid of seeming different and being criticized for what might seem to be losing or out of fashion . . . the way of humility is not the way of renunciation but that of courage. It is not the result of a defeat but the result of a victory of love over selfishness" (Homily, Loreto, 2 September 2007; ORE, 5 September, pp. 8-9).
Alert, critical, humble
Young university students like you should particularly listen to the invitation to be alert and critical. Watchfulness makes it possible to remain ever attentive to the occurrence of events; a critical spirit, for its part, imposes reflection and reasoning.
To take up an image dear to Pope John Paul II, you are called to live as "sentinels of the dawn", thus quick to spot every movement and skilled at ascertaining its direction.
The sentinel's "alertness" is not seduced by the sound of sirens but can go beyond it through will power.
As you well know, "criticism" is the fruit of reason that thinks and asks questions to work out the truth. No one lets himself be seduced by weak theories that seek to impose doubt in the attainment of truth and, through a subtle but arrogant relativism, induce people to think that the truth does not exist.
On the contrary, truth not only exists but we are in need of it. Of course, we are not primarily speaking of an abstract truth but of the truth that affects our own lives and is perceived as crucial if we are to live in a consistent and dignified manner.
Is not the university perhaps the privileged place in which to increase in knowledge and plot the paths that lead gradually to understanding the beauty of truth?
In the various faculties and with the different disciplines that you study, you will always have the opportunity to grow in watchfulness and in critical knowledge. Ask your teachers the questions that they themselves inspire in you and do not be afraid to spend your time in study and research.
For you, this is the season for sowing. Of course, it costs you effort because there are no immediate results. You have to develop with the certainty that what you acquire within these walls will be useful to you in the near future when you enter the priestly ministry or professional life.
It is typical of the mature person, moreover, to recognize that there are times when one must keep quiet in order to learn and other times when one must become teachers with one's own testimony.
Humility ...is ...a favourable condition for expressing true freedom.
Humility permits one to grasp the real meaning of things because it puts them in their right place; a humble person will never be able to absolutize anything since he is aware of his limitation and contradiction.
All that humility brings, on the other hand, is a sense of balance, which is why it is nourished by wisdom and leads to the fullness of truth.
It is in this sense that we are all, but especially you young people, called to make our own the Pope's repeated invitation to keep our gaze fixed on the truth.
Scientific discovery, of which we are only too aware today, and technology, which intrudes into the various areas of personal and social life, cannot claim to have the last word on human happiness. There is something that goes further and makes important breakthroughs possible in order to arrive at the meaning of life.
The various scientific hypotheses can be fascinating and can certainly create progress if they are combined with ethical principles; but each one of us discovers that this does not suffice. In order to be happy in life we must attain the truth that we feel as most important, and this is the truth of love.
In his first Encyclical, Benedict XVI gave much space to this topic. The important distinction between eros and agape shows with its full argumentative force that true love requires a change of outlook and mindset. Indeed, it is necessary to transcend the stage of selfishness to become able to give oneself for ever, without asking anything in return.
The importance of this teaching becomes ever more obvious with the appearance of numerous different forms that contradict reality.
The Encyclical's words ring out when it undauntedly faces the obscuring of a culture no longer in tune with the genuine vision of love: "the contemporary way of exalting the body is deceptive. Eros, reduced to pure 'sex', has become a commodity, a mere 'thing' to be bought and sold, or rather, man himself becomes a commodity . . . The apparent exaltation of the body can quickly turn into a hatred of bodiliness" (Deus Caritas Est, n. 5).
If one lives in this dimension, sooner or later disappointment filters through and bitterness and hatred replace respect and love.
On the contrary, a culture that wishes to develop in the sphere of correct personal relationships needs to recover a deeper sense of love by adopting lifestyles that allow for its true recognition.
This is exactly what Benedict XVI affirms in Deus Caritas Est. "Love is not merely a sentiment. Sentiments come and go. A sentiment can be a marvellous first spark, but it is not the fullness of love . . . It is characteristic of mature love that it calls into play all man's potentialities; it engages the whole man, so to speak. Contact with the visible manifestations of God's love can awaken within us a feeling of joy born of the experience of being loved.
"But this encounter also engages our will and our intellect. Acknowledgment of the living God is one path towards love, and the 'yes' of our will to his will unites our intellect, will and sentiments in the all-embracing act of love. But this process is always open-ended; love is never 'finished' and complete; throughout life, it changes and matures and thus remains faithful to itself" (n. 17).
A lifelong development
As can be seen, the theme of the "journey" with which we began has returned. It shows the importance of constant growth towards which we have set out and which lasts for all of life.
There is one final aspect that I consider important in the Catecheses which the Pontiff has addressed to young people in various circumstances. It concerns the contribution you are called to make to building society.
"Following Christ, dear young people, also entails the constant effort to make one's own contribution to building a society that is more just and supportive and in which all may enjoy the goods of the earth.
"I know that many of you are generously dedicated to witnessing to your faith in the various social environments, active as volunteers and working to promote the common good, peace and justice in every community" (ORE, 5 September 2007, p. 9).
In our specific context, these words have a programmatic value. It was once rightly said: Non scholae sed vitae discimus. What is learned here serves for life. Many of you will meet again in the priestly ministry, and the duty to build society will be in particular the duty to give a sense of God to people today and to enable them to have a real encounter with him.
In his book Jesus of Nazareth, Benedict XVI gave an impetus to communicating in a new and scientifically based language the fundamental outline of Jesus Christ's history and has shown how history itself acquired a different meaning from the moment it received the Person of the Son of God. The Pope, in any case, gives you an example of how important it is to reach out to people without excluding anyone.
The Church lives this universal mission, and all who are called to serve her in the priesthood and consecrated life must prepare themselves to meet everyone, to become for each individual an effective means of grace.
Many other students will be involved in professional life as lay people who must fulfill their own secular vocation.
You know that in all its different structures the world needs your witness and your specific work, which you alone can offer. I am convinced that studying here, at the Pope's university, will enable you to make a considerable contribution with your skill and professionalism to the evangelization of the world.
As the ancient author wrote in the Letter to Diognetus: "The Lord set Christians in the world and it is not legitimate for them to abandon him". Therefore, a determined "yes" is needed on your part if you are to face with enthusiasm and courage the future and challenges it will have in store for you.
Dear young people, do not disappoint the Pope! I can assure you that he places great trust in you and expects of you a renewed presence in the world, especially among your peers who need to be able to feel tangibly the joy and beauty of believing in Jesus Christ, the Son of God who was made man for our salvation.
a lengthy passage, but difficult to cut much out check link for full document
Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone
a true training ground for life.
Research, teaching and the study of the philosophical, theological and juridical sciences have sustained generations of young people, who with the education they received have carried out their ministry, making the Church's unity and catholicity visible in the most disparate parts of the earth.
the genuine exercise of "intellectual charity" — to borrow an expression from Bl. Antonio Rosmini — can truly be a path to holiness and an effective method for making the Gospel vibrant for our contemporaries.
The generations of students change with the evolution of history and culture.
Besides, this is what Benedict XVI said in this very same lecture hall last year, during his inaugural Visit of 21 October [2006].
Science must benefit man
"In the University the young generations are formed who await a serious, demanding proposal, capable of responding in new contexts to the perennial question on the meaning of our existence. This expectation must not be disappointed.
"The contemporary context seems to give primacy to an artificial intelligence that becomes ever more dominated by experimental techniques, and in this way forgets that all science must always safeguard man and promote his aspiration for the authentic good.
"To overrate 'doing', obscuring 'being', does not help to recompose the fundamental balance that everyone needs in order to give their own existence a solid foundation and valid goal" (Address at Lateran University for the Opening of the Academic Year, 21 October 2006; L'Osservatore Romano English edition [ORE], 1 November, p. 3).
A consciousness of the need for education is therefore felt with particular urgency in these years that mark the inevitable evolution of cultural conditions, from which derives behaviour that is all too often in sharp contrast with what in previous decades marked the lives of entire generations.
The memory of the past must be a support and an incentive, not only for living the present but above all to assure our young people a future full of meaning and responsibility.
Moreover, a real future will never be possible unless the past and its tradition are preserved. As a son of St John Bosco, I feel personally the need for the formation of youth.
Don Bosco used to say that formation must be supported by three strong points: reason, religion and lovingness. "Reason and religion", he wrote in his famous short Trattatello sul sistema preventivo [Treatise on the preventive system], "are instruments of which the educator must make constant use, teaching them and practicing them himself if he wishes to be obeyed and to achieve his goal".
With the preventive system, Don Bosco explained, the educator "makes a friend of the pupil . . . in such a way as to speak with the language of the heart, both during the period of education and after it . . . wherever these students go, they are generally a comfort to their families, useful citizens and good Christians".
he was able to keep faith, reason and love bound together as a practical means for change and the basis of all true pedagogy.
In thinking of the students who attended the Pope's university, we are, as it were, under the obligation to focus our attention more directly on the teaching that Benedict XVI has dedicated especially to you young people in recent years.
Man, a traveller by nature
In his first Greeting at the 20th World Youth Day in Cologne on 18 August 2005, the Pope urged you to "set out on the journey" (Arrival Address, 18 August 2005; ORE, 24 August, p. 3).
follow the star that points to the destination we must reach; this comet must sooner or later come to rest over the Grotto of Bethlehem.
Here, at last, we will discover God's presence in our history and our personal life. Indeed, the mystery of the Incarnation of the Son of God is the true centre of our faith.
Unfortunately, we know so many young people who are wandering. They squander the most beautiful years of their lives chasing fleeting illusions that will never be able to give consistency to the development of a mature personality.
Benedict XVI, on the other hand, challenges them to become the protagonists of their own lives through acts of genuine freedom.
In this situation, how is it possible to forget the Pope's words on 18 August 2005 in his Welcome Address at the Poller Rheinwiesen Wharf: "Open wide your hearts to God! Let yourselves be surprised by Christ! Let him have 'the right of free speech' . . . Open the doors of your freedom to his merciful love!" (ORE, 24 August 2005, p. 4).
It is truly beautiful to believe that Christ has an inalienable right to speak to each one of you, to come to meet you and to exhort everyone to give a free response of faith.
In some ways we are all contemporaries of Jesus of Nazareth; he still passes on our streets, visits our towns and asks to stay at our homes. Everything depends on our willingness to grasp his presence and hear his voice.
If we are caught up in the din and frenzy, it becomes hard to perceive his closeness and our greatest risk is to be emptied and no longer to contain anything that gives life depth.
"Religion often becomes almost a consumer product. People choose what they like, and some are even able to make a profit from it. But religion sought on a 'do it yourself' basis cannot ultimately help us. It may be comfortable, but at times of crisis we are left to ourselves. Help people to discover the true star which points out the way to us: Jesus Christ. Let us seek to know him better and better, so as to be able to guide others to him with conviction" (21 August 2005; ORE, 24 August, p. 12).
Knowing, proclaiming Christ
Knowing Christ "with conviction" demands both concentrated study and a passion for the content.
You are responsible, in the first place, for knowing the Person of Jesus Christ so that you can become convincing witnesses among your peers to your discovery of life's meaning.
The request to find Christ through study rather than through experience and prayer might appear misleading. Yet not one of us can forget that faith has a logic of its own and imposes its own rules.
Just as a consistent witness is decisive and prayer indispensable, so knowledge is crucial.
Without being acquainted with the Person of Jesus Christ it becomes difficult to love him; if his teaching does not stay alive how is it possible to imagine living as his disciples?
While the time we spend at university helps us to grasp the intricacy of the different branches of knowledge, it prepares us at the same time for a conscious deepening of what we believe. This enables us to live in the world as free people.
To exercise freedom, however, it is necessary to retain the amazement and wonder of those who continually discover horizons to investigate because they are fascinated by the mystery.
"Where do I find", the Pope said on 18 August 2005, "standards to live by, what are the criteria that govern responsible cooperation in building the present and the future of our world? On whom can I rely? To whom shall I entrust myself? Where is the One who can offer me the response capable of satisfying my heart's deepest desires?" (Welcome Address, 18 August 2005, Cologne; ORE, 24 August, p. 4).
To be truly free, it is necessary to be able to embody humility.
The Pope said: "Do not follow the way of pride but rather that of humility. Go against the tide: do not listen to the interested and persuasive voices that today are peddling on many sides models of life marked by arrogance and violence, by oppression and success at any cost, by appearances and by having at the expense of being . . . Be alert! Be critical!
"Do not follow the wave produced by this powerful, persuasive action. Do not be afraid, dear friends, to prefer the 'alternative' routes pointed out by true love: a modest and sound lifestyle; sincere and pure emotional relationships; honest commitment in studies and work; deep concern for the common good.
"Do not be afraid of seeming different and being criticized for what might seem to be losing or out of fashion . . . the way of humility is not the way of renunciation but that of courage. It is not the result of a defeat but the result of a victory of love over selfishness" (Homily, Loreto, 2 September 2007; ORE, 5 September, pp. 8-9).
Alert, critical, humble
Young university students like you should particularly listen to the invitation to be alert and critical. Watchfulness makes it possible to remain ever attentive to the occurrence of events; a critical spirit, for its part, imposes reflection and reasoning.
To take up an image dear to Pope John Paul II, you are called to live as "sentinels of the dawn", thus quick to spot every movement and skilled at ascertaining its direction.
The sentinel's "alertness" is not seduced by the sound of sirens but can go beyond it through will power.
As you well know, "criticism" is the fruit of reason that thinks and asks questions to work out the truth. No one lets himself be seduced by weak theories that seek to impose doubt in the attainment of truth and, through a subtle but arrogant relativism, induce people to think that the truth does not exist.
On the contrary, truth not only exists but we are in need of it. Of course, we are not primarily speaking of an abstract truth but of the truth that affects our own lives and is perceived as crucial if we are to live in a consistent and dignified manner.
Is not the university perhaps the privileged place in which to increase in knowledge and plot the paths that lead gradually to understanding the beauty of truth?
In the various faculties and with the different disciplines that you study, you will always have the opportunity to grow in watchfulness and in critical knowledge. Ask your teachers the questions that they themselves inspire in you and do not be afraid to spend your time in study and research.
For you, this is the season for sowing. Of course, it costs you effort because there are no immediate results. You have to develop with the certainty that what you acquire within these walls will be useful to you in the near future when you enter the priestly ministry or professional life.
It is typical of the mature person, moreover, to recognize that there are times when one must keep quiet in order to learn and other times when one must become teachers with one's own testimony.
Humility ...is ...a favourable condition for expressing true freedom.
Humility permits one to grasp the real meaning of things because it puts them in their right place; a humble person will never be able to absolutize anything since he is aware of his limitation and contradiction.
All that humility brings, on the other hand, is a sense of balance, which is why it is nourished by wisdom and leads to the fullness of truth.
It is in this sense that we are all, but especially you young people, called to make our own the Pope's repeated invitation to keep our gaze fixed on the truth.
Scientific discovery, of which we are only too aware today, and technology, which intrudes into the various areas of personal and social life, cannot claim to have the last word on human happiness. There is something that goes further and makes important breakthroughs possible in order to arrive at the meaning of life.
The various scientific hypotheses can be fascinating and can certainly create progress if they are combined with ethical principles; but each one of us discovers that this does not suffice. In order to be happy in life we must attain the truth that we feel as most important, and this is the truth of love.
In his first Encyclical, Benedict XVI gave much space to this topic. The important distinction between eros and agape shows with its full argumentative force that true love requires a change of outlook and mindset. Indeed, it is necessary to transcend the stage of selfishness to become able to give oneself for ever, without asking anything in return.
The importance of this teaching becomes ever more obvious with the appearance of numerous different forms that contradict reality.
The Encyclical's words ring out when it undauntedly faces the obscuring of a culture no longer in tune with the genuine vision of love: "the contemporary way of exalting the body is deceptive. Eros, reduced to pure 'sex', has become a commodity, a mere 'thing' to be bought and sold, or rather, man himself becomes a commodity . . . The apparent exaltation of the body can quickly turn into a hatred of bodiliness" (Deus Caritas Est, n. 5).
If one lives in this dimension, sooner or later disappointment filters through and bitterness and hatred replace respect and love.
On the contrary, a culture that wishes to develop in the sphere of correct personal relationships needs to recover a deeper sense of love by adopting lifestyles that allow for its true recognition.
This is exactly what Benedict XVI affirms in Deus Caritas Est. "Love is not merely a sentiment. Sentiments come and go. A sentiment can be a marvellous first spark, but it is not the fullness of love . . . It is characteristic of mature love that it calls into play all man's potentialities; it engages the whole man, so to speak. Contact with the visible manifestations of God's love can awaken within us a feeling of joy born of the experience of being loved.
"But this encounter also engages our will and our intellect. Acknowledgment of the living God is one path towards love, and the 'yes' of our will to his will unites our intellect, will and sentiments in the all-embracing act of love. But this process is always open-ended; love is never 'finished' and complete; throughout life, it changes and matures and thus remains faithful to itself" (n. 17).
A lifelong development
As can be seen, the theme of the "journey" with which we began has returned. It shows the importance of constant growth towards which we have set out and which lasts for all of life.
There is one final aspect that I consider important in the Catecheses which the Pontiff has addressed to young people in various circumstances. It concerns the contribution you are called to make to building society.
"Following Christ, dear young people, also entails the constant effort to make one's own contribution to building a society that is more just and supportive and in which all may enjoy the goods of the earth.
"I know that many of you are generously dedicated to witnessing to your faith in the various social environments, active as volunteers and working to promote the common good, peace and justice in every community" (ORE, 5 September 2007, p. 9).
In our specific context, these words have a programmatic value. It was once rightly said: Non scholae sed vitae discimus. What is learned here serves for life. Many of you will meet again in the priestly ministry, and the duty to build society will be in particular the duty to give a sense of God to people today and to enable them to have a real encounter with him.
In his book Jesus of Nazareth, Benedict XVI gave an impetus to communicating in a new and scientifically based language the fundamental outline of Jesus Christ's history and has shown how history itself acquired a different meaning from the moment it received the Person of the Son of God. The Pope, in any case, gives you an example of how important it is to reach out to people without excluding anyone.
The Church lives this universal mission, and all who are called to serve her in the priesthood and consecrated life must prepare themselves to meet everyone, to become for each individual an effective means of grace.
Many other students will be involved in professional life as lay people who must fulfill their own secular vocation.
You know that in all its different structures the world needs your witness and your specific work, which you alone can offer. I am convinced that studying here, at the Pope's university, will enable you to make a considerable contribution with your skill and professionalism to the evangelization of the world.
As the ancient author wrote in the Letter to Diognetus: "The Lord set Christians in the world and it is not legitimate for them to abandon him". Therefore, a determined "yes" is needed on your part if you are to face with enthusiasm and courage the future and challenges it will have in store for you.
Dear young people, do not disappoint the Pope! I can assure you that he places great trust in you and expects of you a renewed presence in the world, especially among your peers who need to be able to feel tangibly the joy and beauty of believing in Jesus Christ, the Son of God who was made man for our salvation.
The honest pursuit of truth...
http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/andrewbrown/2009/may/27/china-calvin-christianity
most of the article does not apply much, however one part was shocking
in China, the place where Calvinism is spreading fastest is the elite universities, fuelled by prodigies of learning and translation. Wang Xiaochao, a philosopher at one of the Beijing universities, has translated the two major works of St Augustine, the Confessions and the City of God, into Chinese directly from Latin. Gradually all the major works of the first centuries of the Christian tradition are being translated directly from the original languages into Chinese.
All of this is happening outside the control of the official body which is supposed to monitor and supervise the churches in China. Instead, it is the philosophy departments at the universities, or the language departments and the departments of literature and western civilization that are the channel.
the Calvinists are shining light on their own errors, lets hope they take an honest look.
most of the article does not apply much, however one part was shocking
in China, the place where Calvinism is spreading fastest is the elite universities, fuelled by prodigies of learning and translation. Wang Xiaochao, a philosopher at one of the Beijing universities, has translated the two major works of St Augustine, the Confessions and the City of God, into Chinese directly from Latin. Gradually all the major works of the first centuries of the Christian tradition are being translated directly from the original languages into Chinese.
All of this is happening outside the control of the official body which is supposed to monitor and supervise the churches in China. Instead, it is the philosophy departments at the universities, or the language departments and the departments of literature and western civilization that are the channel.
the Calvinists are shining light on their own errors, lets hope they take an honest look.
What others do part IV
Chi Alpha Campus ministries
http://www.chialpha.com/
An Assemblies of God, supplement to church for college students.
Chi Alpha Campus Ministries is a Christian campus ministry on universities throughout the United States and around the world. We are a movement of college-age men and women earnestly following Jesus. We are not a fraternity or sorority. We invite everyone to be a part, regardless of background.
We meet on campus in groups of varying size and style. These gatherings are informal, infused with music and interaction, and cover topics from relationships to the nature of truth. We create opportunities for students to meet God, each other, and the needs of the community.
We are sponsored by the Assemblies of God. We encourage students to seek out a spiritual covering and be accountable in their walk with God. In turn, Chi Alpha pastors are accountable to the national Chi Alpha organization and the national organization is accountable to the Assemblies of God. The Assemblies of God has a nearly century-old heritage of reaching the lost with a Biblical message of Jesus.
is on over 200 campuses throughout the U.S. and around the world today.
resource
"connecting a practical help for launching college ministry"
I. Chartering your group with the college
a. Benefits of registering as an official campus organization
b. How to charter your group step-by-step
c. Public vs. private universities
d. Chartering at two year schools
e. A note on university funding
f. From the frontlines
II. After chartering – Interaction with the University
a. Tips for making the university love you
b. Tips for making the university loathe you
III. Legal issues on Campus
Connecting with Students
IV. Five Strategies to Get You Going
a. Strategy One: Prayer - Praying on Campus
b. Strategy Two: Relationship - Informal Relational Activities
c. Strategy Three: Cross-Cultural - International Student
Friendship Ministry
.
d. Strategy Four: Cell - Small Groups
e. Strategy Five: The Gathering - Large Group Gathering
V. Principles for Effective Campus Ministries
VI. After You’re Up & Running
a. Do’s & don’ts
b. We asked pioneers…
c. The first year (a timeline)
• Serve the university—Ask not what your university can do for
you, but what you can do for your university
.
➢ Example: Freshmen move-in, international student airport
pick-up, volunteer crisis counseling.
• Be positive—Often Christian organizations are known for what
they are against rather than what they are for
. Discover what
part of the university’
s mission you can wholeheartedly support
and actively pursue that area. Build your group in such a way
that if you ever left the campus the university president would
grieve that you were no longer there.
• Only contacting university officials when you need something
—Genuinely get to know them, build relationships and find
ways to serve the overall mission of the university
.Whether you’re a full-time missionary, part of a church near campus, or a student yourself, reaching college students is not only possible, but very doable!
5 strategies
Strategy one: Prayer-Praying on campus
Strategy two: Relationship – Informal relational activities
Strategy three: Cross-Culture - International Student Friendship
Ministry
Strategy four: Cell - Small Groups
Strategy five: The Gathering – Large group gathering
Principles for effective worship
Engaging Worship:
Deliberate Evangelism:
Problem-Solving Messages:
Intimate Community and Challenging Discipleship:
Empowering Ownership:
Do What Works:
Focus on Freshmen:
They also have details on various programs.
http://www.chialpha.com/
An Assemblies of God, supplement to church for college students.
Chi Alpha Campus Ministries is a Christian campus ministry on universities throughout the United States and around the world. We are a movement of college-age men and women earnestly following Jesus. We are not a fraternity or sorority. We invite everyone to be a part, regardless of background.
We meet on campus in groups of varying size and style. These gatherings are informal, infused with music and interaction, and cover topics from relationships to the nature of truth. We create opportunities for students to meet God, each other, and the needs of the community.
We are sponsored by the Assemblies of God. We encourage students to seek out a spiritual covering and be accountable in their walk with God. In turn, Chi Alpha pastors are accountable to the national Chi Alpha organization and the national organization is accountable to the Assemblies of God. The Assemblies of God has a nearly century-old heritage of reaching the lost with a Biblical message of Jesus.
is on over 200 campuses throughout the U.S. and around the world today.
resource
"connecting a practical help for launching college ministry"
I. Chartering your group with the college
a. Benefits of registering as an official campus organization
b. How to charter your group step-by-step
c. Public vs. private universities
d. Chartering at two year schools
e. A note on university funding
f. From the frontlines
II. After chartering – Interaction with the University
a. Tips for making the university love you
b. Tips for making the university loathe you
III. Legal issues on Campus
Connecting with Students
IV. Five Strategies to Get You Going
a. Strategy One: Prayer - Praying on Campus
b. Strategy Two: Relationship - Informal Relational Activities
c. Strategy Three: Cross-Cultural - International Student
Friendship Ministry
.
d. Strategy Four: Cell - Small Groups
e. Strategy Five: The Gathering - Large Group Gathering
V. Principles for Effective Campus Ministries
VI. After You’re Up & Running
a. Do’s & don’ts
b. We asked pioneers…
c. The first year (a timeline)
• Serve the university—Ask not what your university can do for
you, but what you can do for your university
.
➢ Example: Freshmen move-in, international student airport
pick-up, volunteer crisis counseling.
• Be positive—Often Christian organizations are known for what
they are against rather than what they are for
. Discover what
part of the university’
s mission you can wholeheartedly support
and actively pursue that area. Build your group in such a way
that if you ever left the campus the university president would
grieve that you were no longer there.
• Only contacting university officials when you need something
—Genuinely get to know them, build relationships and find
ways to serve the overall mission of the university
.Whether you’re a full-time missionary, part of a church near campus, or a student yourself, reaching college students is not only possible, but very doable!
5 strategies
Strategy one: Prayer-Praying on campus
Strategy two: Relationship – Informal relational activities
Strategy three: Cross-Culture - International Student Friendship
Ministry
Strategy four: Cell - Small Groups
Strategy five: The Gathering – Large group gathering
Principles for effective worship
Engaging Worship:
Deliberate Evangelism:
Problem-Solving Messages:
Intimate Community and Challenging Discipleship:
Empowering Ownership:
Do What Works:
Focus on Freshmen:
They also have details on various programs.
What they are doing part III
Hillel
hillel.org
The largest Jewish campus organization in the world, Hillel: The Foundation for Jewish Campus Life provides opportunities for Jewish students at more than 500 colleges and universities to explore and celebrate their Jewish identity through its global network of regional centers, campus Foundations and Hillel student organizations. Hillel is working to provoke a renaissance of Jewish life.
They have some very sad statistics, however i feel their numbers are pretty close to the corresponding Catholic statistics characterized by the following: low student involvement, raising kids Jewish(Catholic) not important, many consider self culturally Jewish (Catholic), many are turned off by approach of Hillel (Newman Society, etc.) on campus, many think involvement is uncool or too religious.
Hillel's mission is to enrich the lives of Jewish undergraduate and graduate students so that they may enrich the Jewish people and the world. Hillel student leaders, professionals and lay leaders are dedicated to creating a pluralistic, welcoming and inclusive environment for Jewish college students, where they are encouraged to grow intellectually, spiritually and socially. Hillel helps students find a balance in being distinctively Jewish and universally human by encouraging them to pursue tzedek (social justice), tikkun olam (repairing the world) and Jewish learning, and to support Israel and global Jewish peoplehood. Hillel is committed to excellence, innovation, accountability and results.
“To enrich the lives of Jewish undergraduate and graduate students so that they may enrich the Jewish community and the world.”
life.”To make this vision a
reality we seek to “double the
number of Jewish students who are
involved in Jewish life and who have
Meaningful Jewish Experiences.”
To accomplish this, we will:
• emphasize the relevance of
Jewish life to today’s student for
exploring their Jewish identity,
advancing their personal and
professional development, and
enriching the world;
• recruit, develop and retain
outstanding campus
professionals and Jewish
educators;
• expand, diversify and decentralize
student leadership, and seed
student-led initiatives;
• prioritize and deepen
collaboration between national
and local Hillel boards and
professionals;
• position Hillel as the platform for
Jewish life on the campus
through partnerships and
alliances at both the local and
national level.
Hillel’s Strengths
• Brand and profile;
• Provision of valuable student
resources;
• Organization’s international
network;
• Organization’s pluralistic
approach;
• Dedication, creativity, and
enthusiasm of Hillel’s staff.
Hillel’sWeaknesses
• Low student involvement;
• Image as being “uncool,” “too
religious,” “exclusive,” “cliquey;”
• Inadequate funding, lack of
financial stability year-to-year,
limited human resources;
• Lack of multi-faceted approach to
campuses and appreciation of
campus differences;
• Employee burnout; lack of
professional opportunities.
hillel.org
The largest Jewish campus organization in the world, Hillel: The Foundation for Jewish Campus Life provides opportunities for Jewish students at more than 500 colleges and universities to explore and celebrate their Jewish identity through its global network of regional centers, campus Foundations and Hillel student organizations. Hillel is working to provoke a renaissance of Jewish life.
They have some very sad statistics, however i feel their numbers are pretty close to the corresponding Catholic statistics characterized by the following: low student involvement, raising kids Jewish(Catholic) not important, many consider self culturally Jewish (Catholic), many are turned off by approach of Hillel (Newman Society, etc.) on campus, many think involvement is uncool or too religious.
Hillel's mission is to enrich the lives of Jewish undergraduate and graduate students so that they may enrich the Jewish people and the world. Hillel student leaders, professionals and lay leaders are dedicated to creating a pluralistic, welcoming and inclusive environment for Jewish college students, where they are encouraged to grow intellectually, spiritually and socially. Hillel helps students find a balance in being distinctively Jewish and universally human by encouraging them to pursue tzedek (social justice), tikkun olam (repairing the world) and Jewish learning, and to support Israel and global Jewish peoplehood. Hillel is committed to excellence, innovation, accountability and results.
“To enrich the lives of Jewish undergraduate and graduate students so that they may enrich the Jewish community and the world.”
life.”To make this vision a
reality we seek to “double the
number of Jewish students who are
involved in Jewish life and who have
Meaningful Jewish Experiences.”
To accomplish this, we will:
• emphasize the relevance of
Jewish life to today’s student for
exploring their Jewish identity,
advancing their personal and
professional development, and
enriching the world;
• recruit, develop and retain
outstanding campus
professionals and Jewish
educators;
• expand, diversify and decentralize
student leadership, and seed
student-led initiatives;
• prioritize and deepen
collaboration between national
and local Hillel boards and
professionals;
• position Hillel as the platform for
Jewish life on the campus
through partnerships and
alliances at both the local and
national level.
Hillel’s Strengths
• Brand and profile;
• Provision of valuable student
resources;
• Organization’s international
network;
• Organization’s pluralistic
approach;
• Dedication, creativity, and
enthusiasm of Hillel’s staff.
Hillel’sWeaknesses
• Low student involvement;
• Image as being “uncool,” “too
religious,” “exclusive,” “cliquey;”
• Inadequate funding, lack of
financial stability year-to-year,
limited human resources;
• Lack of multi-faceted approach to
campuses and appreciation of
campus differences;
• Employee burnout; lack of
professional opportunities.
What they are doing part II
Muslim Student Association
msanational.org
10 steps to starting a chapter at your university
get info, get members, 1st meeting, core group, register, meetings, bank account, tax needs, office, join msa national
training opportunities
Information on various political task forces and on communications
how to advertise
including
You may want to extend a warm welcome to other faithbased
groups such as the Jewish Student Association (JSA)
and Christian groups. Let them know that you want to work
together to provide beneficial services to students, and
facilitate a stronger student environment on campus. Make
sure they see you as a potential ally for certain issues.
event ideas
example objectives (mission statement?)
The objectives of this organization are to provide a means for
Muslims at Georgetown University to fulfill their obligations
to Islam:
To create an environment on campus that will foster the
development and growth of the diverse Muslim community
at Georgetown University.
To provide Muslims with proper accommodations to fulfill
religious obligations including maintenance of the Prayer
room, the organization of the Friday prayer, as well as any
accommodations for Ramadan.
To sponsor programming and events that positively
contribute to the development of Islam and Muslims on
campus. This may include lectures, panel discussions,
halaqas (Islamic discussion groups) as well as social
events.
To act as a resource to the whole campus community and
represent Islam in the best possible manner.
To actively engage both Muslims and non-Muslims in
a portrayal of the message of Islam as completely and
accurately as possible.
very interesting
msanational.org
10 steps to starting a chapter at your university
get info, get members, 1st meeting, core group, register, meetings, bank account, tax needs, office, join msa national
training opportunities
Information on various political task forces and on communications
how to advertise
including
You may want to extend a warm welcome to other faithbased
groups such as the Jewish Student Association (JSA)
and Christian groups. Let them know that you want to work
together to provide beneficial services to students, and
facilitate a stronger student environment on campus. Make
sure they see you as a potential ally for certain issues.
event ideas
example objectives (mission statement?)
The objectives of this organization are to provide a means for
Muslims at Georgetown University to fulfill their obligations
to Islam:
To create an environment on campus that will foster the
development and growth of the diverse Muslim community
at Georgetown University.
To provide Muslims with proper accommodations to fulfill
religious obligations including maintenance of the Prayer
room, the organization of the Friday prayer, as well as any
accommodations for Ramadan.
To sponsor programming and events that positively
contribute to the development of Islam and Muslims on
campus. This may include lectures, panel discussions,
halaqas (Islamic discussion groups) as well as social
events.
To act as a resource to the whole campus community and
represent Islam in the best possible manner.
To actively engage both Muslims and non-Muslims in
a portrayal of the message of Islam as completely and
accurately as possible.
very interesting
What others are doing
Campus Crusade for Christ International
ccci.org
The second largest(?) Campus ministry program after the Catholic Church.
The good: huge expansion, meeting their personal goals, 667 million budget for 2008, a program that immediately pushes all members into ministry, promotion, and leadership (just wait). They have almost 40 ministries with web presence, they have a huge staff. They have good intentions.
The bad: low percentage of commitment, little unity, has a business structure(complete with president). No theological training.
The ugly: look up their belief statement, I dare you, their limited theology has no history, it is a response to their problems with Catholicism, "we have 66 books in the bible," "you go immediately to heaven or hell". Not to mention "We accept those areas of doctrinal teaching on which, historically, there has been general agreement among all true Christians. Because of the specialized calling of our movement, we desire to allow for freedom of conviction on other doctrinal matters, provided that any interpretation is based upon the Bible alone, and that no such interpretation shall become an issue which hinders the ministry to which God has called us." oh and there motto: " to build spiritual movements everywhere."
below you see there brag list and there budget
Last year, 52.4 million students were invited to respond to the
gospel through Campus Crusade for Christ (2 million more
than customers of the iTunes store in 2008), and 1,340,834
students indicated decisions to become Christians
For 42 years, Athletes in Action has built a global reputation for
excellence in sports ministry. Over 85 million people in 75
countries heard the gospel in 2008 through Athletes in Action
ministry initiatives.
Every month, about 2,000 soldiers committed their lives to
Christ through the Military Ministry of Campus Crusade,
thanks to people like Chaplain Mike Zell.
2,500
e-mails that flood in each week from visitors to Campus
Crusade’s Global Media Outreach Web site. Almost 25 percent
of all visitors indicate a decision to follow Jesus. “
One staff
member from Fiji, Josefa Rokosawa Muriwaqa, set a personal
goal to talk with 3,000 people about Jesus in 2008. Several
years ago, he set the goal of 365 in one year and surpassed it
by 83. He’s increased his goal each year. “I share my faith with
people everywhere I go: on the road or inside a plane,” he
says. “I communicate my faith with people as a result of my
love for God.”
Globally, 423,323 students—nearly half a million—were
members of a “growth group,” learning the basics of
Christianity. Additionally, 37,790 others—almost double the
seating capacity of Madison Square Garden—boldly applied
evangelism and discipleship training to change their world.
one-to-one mentoring. Each
week Omar mentored 10 men, each one expected to begin
mentoring someone else.
Campus Crusade has a ministry presence in 191 countries, representing 99.5
percent of the world’s population. This is 73 more countries than where McDonald’s restaurants
have reached.
CAMPUS MINISTRIES
Reaching the students and faculty on the
world’s high school and college campuses.
STUDENT VENTURE: high school
www.studentventure.com
U.S. CAMPUS MINISTRY
www.campuscrusadeforchrist.com
FACULTY COMMONS
www.facultycommons.com
ATHLETES IN ACTION
Building spiritual movements everywhere
through the platform of sport.
• Campus and Pro: On-site evangelism
and discipleship with hundreds of teams
and thousands of athletes.
• Sports teams and summer opportunities:
Traveling teams and camps carrying the
gospel to 80 countries.
• Media: Sports themes and gospel
presentations distributed to a half billion
people worldwide.
• Sports Legend Series: Exposing 20
million people to truth through
America’s most visible sporting events.
www.athletesinaction.org
FAMILYLIFE
Equipping couples and individuals to build
godly homes through:
• Conferences: More than 100 events
nationwide.
• Radio broadcasts: Reaching nearly 1,000
communities.
• Media resources: Bible studies, books,
DVDs and audio for all family members.
www.familylife.com
ADULT PROFESSIONAL
MINISTRIES
CHRISTIAN EMBASSY
Reaching government and diplomatic leaders
in Washington, D.C., and New York City.
• DC www.christianembassy.com
• UN www.ce-un.org
EXECUTIVE MINISTRIES
Reaching executives and the leadership
community with the gospel through
evangelistic dinner parties and discipleship
groups.
www.execmin.org
HERE’S LIFE INNER CITY
Mobilizing urban churches to meet physical
and spiritual needs in the inner city.
www.hlic.org
LIFE BUILDERS
Building into lives of individuals through
one-to-one evangelism and discipleship.
www.lifebuildersnet.org
MILITARY MINISTRY
Bringing hope and resources to
the military worldwide.
www.militaryministry.org
PRIORITY ASSOCIATES
Presenting Christ and developing spiritual
leaders in the marketplace.
www.priorityassociates.org
Our global scope:
Covering the world with the gospel
THE JESUS FILM PROJECT®
Showing the JESUS film to everyone in
the world in his or her native tongue.
www.jesusfilm.org
JOSH MCDOWELL MINISTRY
Winning people worldwide to Christ
and convincing them of the credibility of
Christianity and the attractiveness and
reasonableness of a biblical lifestyle.
www.josh.org
THE IMPACT MOVEMENT
A partnering ministry building spiritual
movements within the African-American
community and among people of African
descent worldwide.
www.impactmovement.com
ANDRÉ KOLE MINISTRY
Presenting Christ’s claims using the artistic
means of illusion in live stage shows.
www.andrekole.org
BRIGHT MEDIA FOUNDATION
Developing and promoting the use of
media tools, based on the literary works
of Bill and Vonette Bright, to disciple
future generations.
www.brightmedia.org
ETHNIC MINISTRY RESOURCES
Equipping churches and ministries to share
the gospel in ethnically diverse cities.
GLOBAL AID NETWORK (GAiN)
Demonstrating the love of God through
word and deed to provide hope for hurting
and needy people around the world through
relief and development projects.
www.gainusa.org
GLOBAL MEDIA OUTREACH
An Internet ministry that creates
multilingual evangelistic and discipleship
sites as part of a growing global community
outreach strategy.
www.globalmediaoutreach.com
GREAT COMMISSION FOUNDATION
Providing financial expertise and biblical
perspective to help maximize investment
opportunities, minimize taxes and reap
an eternal harvest.
www.gcfccc.org
INTERNATIONAL LEADERSHIP
ACADEMIES
Responding to the challenge to deploy
leaders who can build movements of
spiritual multiplication in the community.
KEYNOTE
Using music and multimedia to present the
gospel in culturally relevant manners.
www.keynote.org
THE KING’S COLLEGE
Educating and equipping tomorrow’s
leaders for strategic institutions.
www.tkc.edu
MEDICAL STRATEGIC NETWORK
Equipping medical professionals to penetrate
their spheres of influence with the gospel.
www.gomets.org
NEWLIFE RESOURCES
Serving churches and ministering to
Christians with tools for building
effective ministry.
www.campuscrusade.com
THE ORLANDO INSTITUTE
Equipping leaders to make disciples
by offering certificates and master’s
degrees through residential and
distance learning programs.
www.toi.edu
WORLD HEADQUARTERS
AT LAKE HART
Providing vital services and strategic
resources to accelerate the fulfillment
of the Great Commission.
www.lakehart.org
Our global opportunity:
Ministries with a unique focus, essential to the success of our mission
2008 2007 2006 2005
United States Revenues $ 519,227,000 $ 514,449,000 $ 497,516,000 $ 454,487,000
Operating Change in Net Assets* $ 4,758,000 $ 15,553,000 $ 30,404,000 $ 19,989,000
Non-Operating Change in Net Assets* $ 13,491,000 $ 9,015,000 $ 15,166,000 $ (17,685,000
Total Change in Net Assets $ 18,249,000 $ 24,568,000 $ 45,570,000 $ 2,304,000
International Revenues** $ 148,186,000 $ 131,640,000 $ 110,027,000 $ 103,493,000
World Revenues (U.S. and International) $ 667,413,000 $ 646,089,000 $ 607,543,000 $ 557,980,000
Fund-Raising Expenses*** 8% 7% 8% 8%
General and Administrative Expenses*** 7% 7% 7% 8%
Average Size of Gift Received $ 128 $ 127 $ 125 $ 121
Most Frequent Contribution $ 50 $ 50 $ 50 $ 50
Average Staff Family’s Monthly Compensation $ 5,229 $ 5,021 $ 4,642 $ 4,773
Average Staff Single’s Monthly Compensation $ 2,466 $ 2,167 $ 2,181 $ 2,275
ccci.org
The second largest(?) Campus ministry program after the Catholic Church.
The good: huge expansion, meeting their personal goals, 667 million budget for 2008, a program that immediately pushes all members into ministry, promotion, and leadership (just wait). They have almost 40 ministries with web presence, they have a huge staff. They have good intentions.
The bad: low percentage of commitment, little unity, has a business structure(complete with president). No theological training.
The ugly: look up their belief statement, I dare you, their limited theology has no history, it is a response to their problems with Catholicism, "we have 66 books in the bible," "you go immediately to heaven or hell". Not to mention "We accept those areas of doctrinal teaching on which, historically, there has been general agreement among all true Christians. Because of the specialized calling of our movement, we desire to allow for freedom of conviction on other doctrinal matters, provided that any interpretation is based upon the Bible alone, and that no such interpretation shall become an issue which hinders the ministry to which God has called us." oh and there motto: " to build spiritual movements everywhere."
below you see there brag list and there budget
Last year, 52.4 million students were invited to respond to the
gospel through Campus Crusade for Christ (2 million more
than customers of the iTunes store in 2008), and 1,340,834
students indicated decisions to become Christians
For 42 years, Athletes in Action has built a global reputation for
excellence in sports ministry. Over 85 million people in 75
countries heard the gospel in 2008 through Athletes in Action
ministry initiatives.
Every month, about 2,000 soldiers committed their lives to
Christ through the Military Ministry of Campus Crusade,
thanks to people like Chaplain Mike Zell.
2,500
e-mails that flood in each week from visitors to Campus
Crusade’s Global Media Outreach Web site. Almost 25 percent
of all visitors indicate a decision to follow Jesus. “
One staff
member from Fiji, Josefa Rokosawa Muriwaqa, set a personal
goal to talk with 3,000 people about Jesus in 2008. Several
years ago, he set the goal of 365 in one year and surpassed it
by 83. He’s increased his goal each year. “I share my faith with
people everywhere I go: on the road or inside a plane,” he
says. “I communicate my faith with people as a result of my
love for God.”
Globally, 423,323 students—nearly half a million—were
members of a “growth group,” learning the basics of
Christianity. Additionally, 37,790 others—almost double the
seating capacity of Madison Square Garden—boldly applied
evangelism and discipleship training to change their world.
one-to-one mentoring. Each
week Omar mentored 10 men, each one expected to begin
mentoring someone else.
Campus Crusade has a ministry presence in 191 countries, representing 99.5
percent of the world’s population. This is 73 more countries than where McDonald’s restaurants
have reached.
CAMPUS MINISTRIES
Reaching the students and faculty on the
world’s high school and college campuses.
STUDENT VENTURE: high school
www.studentventure.com
U.S. CAMPUS MINISTRY
www.campuscrusadeforchrist.com
FACULTY COMMONS
www.facultycommons.com
ATHLETES IN ACTION
Building spiritual movements everywhere
through the platform of sport.
• Campus and Pro: On-site evangelism
and discipleship with hundreds of teams
and thousands of athletes.
• Sports teams and summer opportunities:
Traveling teams and camps carrying the
gospel to 80 countries.
• Media: Sports themes and gospel
presentations distributed to a half billion
people worldwide.
• Sports Legend Series: Exposing 20
million people to truth through
America’s most visible sporting events.
www.athletesinaction.org
FAMILYLIFE
Equipping couples and individuals to build
godly homes through:
• Conferences: More than 100 events
nationwide.
• Radio broadcasts: Reaching nearly 1,000
communities.
• Media resources: Bible studies, books,
DVDs and audio for all family members.
www.familylife.com
ADULT PROFESSIONAL
MINISTRIES
CHRISTIAN EMBASSY
Reaching government and diplomatic leaders
in Washington, D.C., and New York City.
• DC www.christianembassy.com
• UN www.ce-un.org
EXECUTIVE MINISTRIES
Reaching executives and the leadership
community with the gospel through
evangelistic dinner parties and discipleship
groups.
www.execmin.org
HERE’S LIFE INNER CITY
Mobilizing urban churches to meet physical
and spiritual needs in the inner city.
www.hlic.org
LIFE BUILDERS
Building into lives of individuals through
one-to-one evangelism and discipleship.
www.lifebuildersnet.org
MILITARY MINISTRY
Bringing hope and resources to
the military worldwide.
www.militaryministry.org
PRIORITY ASSOCIATES
Presenting Christ and developing spiritual
leaders in the marketplace.
www.priorityassociates.org
Our global scope:
Covering the world with the gospel
THE JESUS FILM PROJECT®
Showing the JESUS film to everyone in
the world in his or her native tongue.
www.jesusfilm.org
JOSH MCDOWELL MINISTRY
Winning people worldwide to Christ
and convincing them of the credibility of
Christianity and the attractiveness and
reasonableness of a biblical lifestyle.
www.josh.org
THE IMPACT MOVEMENT
A partnering ministry building spiritual
movements within the African-American
community and among people of African
descent worldwide.
www.impactmovement.com
ANDRÉ KOLE MINISTRY
Presenting Christ’s claims using the artistic
means of illusion in live stage shows.
www.andrekole.org
BRIGHT MEDIA FOUNDATION
Developing and promoting the use of
media tools, based on the literary works
of Bill and Vonette Bright, to disciple
future generations.
www.brightmedia.org
ETHNIC MINISTRY RESOURCES
Equipping churches and ministries to share
the gospel in ethnically diverse cities.
GLOBAL AID NETWORK (GAiN)
Demonstrating the love of God through
word and deed to provide hope for hurting
and needy people around the world through
relief and development projects.
www.gainusa.org
GLOBAL MEDIA OUTREACH
An Internet ministry that creates
multilingual evangelistic and discipleship
sites as part of a growing global community
outreach strategy.
www.globalmediaoutreach.com
GREAT COMMISSION FOUNDATION
Providing financial expertise and biblical
perspective to help maximize investment
opportunities, minimize taxes and reap
an eternal harvest.
www.gcfccc.org
INTERNATIONAL LEADERSHIP
ACADEMIES
Responding to the challenge to deploy
leaders who can build movements of
spiritual multiplication in the community.
KEYNOTE
Using music and multimedia to present the
gospel in culturally relevant manners.
www.keynote.org
THE KING’S COLLEGE
Educating and equipping tomorrow’s
leaders for strategic institutions.
www.tkc.edu
MEDICAL STRATEGIC NETWORK
Equipping medical professionals to penetrate
their spheres of influence with the gospel.
www.gomets.org
NEWLIFE RESOURCES
Serving churches and ministering to
Christians with tools for building
effective ministry.
www.campuscrusade.com
THE ORLANDO INSTITUTE
Equipping leaders to make disciples
by offering certificates and master’s
degrees through residential and
distance learning programs.
www.toi.edu
WORLD HEADQUARTERS
AT LAKE HART
Providing vital services and strategic
resources to accelerate the fulfillment
of the Great Commission.
www.lakehart.org
Our global opportunity:
Ministries with a unique focus, essential to the success of our mission
2008 2007 2006 2005
United States Revenues $ 519,227,000 $ 514,449,000 $ 497,516,000 $ 454,487,000
Operating Change in Net Assets* $ 4,758,000 $ 15,553,000 $ 30,404,000 $ 19,989,000
Non-Operating Change in Net Assets* $ 13,491,000 $ 9,015,000 $ 15,166,000 $ (17,685,000
Total Change in Net Assets $ 18,249,000 $ 24,568,000 $ 45,570,000 $ 2,304,000
International Revenues** $ 148,186,000 $ 131,640,000 $ 110,027,000 $ 103,493,000
World Revenues (U.S. and International) $ 667,413,000 $ 646,089,000 $ 607,543,000 $ 557,980,000
Fund-Raising Expenses*** 8% 7% 8% 8%
General and Administrative Expenses*** 7% 7% 7% 8%
Average Size of Gift Received $ 128 $ 127 $ 125 $ 121
Most Frequent Contribution $ 50 $ 50 $ 50 $ 50
Average Staff Family’s Monthly Compensation $ 5,229 $ 5,021 $ 4,642 $ 4,773
Average Staff Single’s Monthly Compensation $ 2,466 $ 2,167 $ 2,181 $ 2,275
What is the policy?
http://www.catholic.org/collegiate/story.php?id=33564
In 2004, the U.S. bishops approved a policy stating, in part: “The Catholic community and Catholic institutions should not honor those who act in defiance of our fundamental moral principles. They should not be given awards, honors or platforms which would suggest support for their actions.”
thats pretty clear
also
a history of commencement scandals with a trend towards fewer schools causing the scandals
In 2004, the U.S. bishops approved a policy stating, in part: “The Catholic community and Catholic institutions should not honor those who act in defiance of our fundamental moral principles. They should not be given awards, honors or platforms which would suggest support for their actions.”
thats pretty clear
also
a history of commencement scandals with a trend towards fewer schools causing the scandals
Archbishop Burke : Prevent Repeat of Notre Dame
http://www.catholic.org/international/international_story.php?id=33854
lessons must be taken from Notre Dame’s conferral of an honorary doctorate on Obama.
Notre Dame’s decision to honor President Barack Obama was not only “profoundly shocking,” but also underscores a grave situation requiring action to ensure the incident is never repeated.
Burke said that the “betrayal of the Catholic identity of Notre Dame University” grew out of the danger of “pursuing a kind of prestige in the secular world, which leads to a betrayal of the sacred aspect of its work, namely the fidelity to Christ and His teaching.”
“That the premiere Catholic university in the United States would give an honorary doctorate of law to one of the most aggressive pro-abortion politicians in our
history is profoundly shocking.”
We need to take the measures that are necessary so that this is not repeated in other places. If it could happen at Notre Dame, where else could it happen?”
D’Arcy was working hard to encourage a spiritual renewal among students at Notre Dame, “while at the same time correcting what is gravely wrong.”
“I have friends who are professors or students at the university who tell me that there are a great number of the students are very devout in their practice of the Catholic faith, and strive in every way to live their faith and grow in it,” said Burke. “We certainly want to save that and promote it.”
I am curious as to how a repeat will be prevented and how the Catholic universities in this country and around the world will heal, grow , and be a witness to all of the necessity and truth of Christ and His Church
lessons must be taken from Notre Dame’s conferral of an honorary doctorate on Obama.
Notre Dame’s decision to honor President Barack Obama was not only “profoundly shocking,” but also underscores a grave situation requiring action to ensure the incident is never repeated.
Burke said that the “betrayal of the Catholic identity of Notre Dame University” grew out of the danger of “pursuing a kind of prestige in the secular world, which leads to a betrayal of the sacred aspect of its work, namely the fidelity to Christ and His teaching.”
“That the premiere Catholic university in the United States would give an honorary doctorate of law to one of the most aggressive pro-abortion politicians in our
history is profoundly shocking.”
We need to take the measures that are necessary so that this is not repeated in other places. If it could happen at Notre Dame, where else could it happen?”
D’Arcy was working hard to encourage a spiritual renewal among students at Notre Dame, “while at the same time correcting what is gravely wrong.”
“I have friends who are professors or students at the university who tell me that there are a great number of the students are very devout in their practice of the Catholic faith, and strive in every way to live their faith and grow in it,” said Burke. “We certainly want to save that and promote it.”
I am curious as to how a repeat will be prevented and how the Catholic universities in this country and around the world will heal, grow , and be a witness to all of the necessity and truth of Christ and His Church
colleges seek new policy on inviting politicians
http://ncronline.org/blogs/ncr-today/wake-obama-flap-colleges-seek-new-policy-inviting-politicians
(sorry about the link)
Though the U.S. bishops don’t have the recent flap over Notre Dame and President Barack Obama on their formal agenda this week in San Antonio, the aftermath of that episode is very much in the air. As it happens, the Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities, the main umbrella group for Catholic colleges in America, has a suggestion for the bishops: to scrap their current policy and make a clearer distinction between “honoring” a politician who holds views contrary to church teaching and merely providing a platform.
The ACCU made its recommendation during a June 11-12 meeting of its board of directors, held at the University of San Diego.
The following is the summary of their discussion, provided by the summer issue of the ACCU newsletter:
“In response to a request from Bishop Thomas Curry, chair of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Catholic Education, the Board held a lengthy discussion concerning campus speaker policies. This conversation continued a dialogue started by Cardinal Theodore McCarrick, who informed bishops in 2006 that their document ‘Catholics in Political Life’ warranted further clarification regarding its application to Catholic higher education.
“ACCU’s directors informally concluded that it would be desirable for the USCCB to withdraw ‘Catholics in Political Life’ since it was written as a stop-gap statement prior to the 2004 national election. A successor document, if any, should distinguish between ‘honors’ and ‘platforms’ and should acknowledge more clearly the differing roles of campus authorities and bishops. In addition, ACCU’s directors suggested that juridical expressions of bishops’ or universities’ responsibilities should be kept to a minimum, lest they inhibit the ‘mutual trust, close and consistent collaboration, and continuing dialogue’ to which Ex corde Ecclesiae calls Church and university authorities.”
This seems like excuses to me, clarification is when the bishop tells you," uninvite that guy." Seriously the current criteria and some common sense is all we need.
(sorry about the link)
Though the U.S. bishops don’t have the recent flap over Notre Dame and President Barack Obama on their formal agenda this week in San Antonio, the aftermath of that episode is very much in the air. As it happens, the Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities, the main umbrella group for Catholic colleges in America, has a suggestion for the bishops: to scrap their current policy and make a clearer distinction between “honoring” a politician who holds views contrary to church teaching and merely providing a platform.
The ACCU made its recommendation during a June 11-12 meeting of its board of directors, held at the University of San Diego.
The following is the summary of their discussion, provided by the summer issue of the ACCU newsletter:
“In response to a request from Bishop Thomas Curry, chair of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Catholic Education, the Board held a lengthy discussion concerning campus speaker policies. This conversation continued a dialogue started by Cardinal Theodore McCarrick, who informed bishops in 2006 that their document ‘Catholics in Political Life’ warranted further clarification regarding its application to Catholic higher education.
“ACCU’s directors informally concluded that it would be desirable for the USCCB to withdraw ‘Catholics in Political Life’ since it was written as a stop-gap statement prior to the 2004 national election. A successor document, if any, should distinguish between ‘honors’ and ‘platforms’ and should acknowledge more clearly the differing roles of campus authorities and bishops. In addition, ACCU’s directors suggested that juridical expressions of bishops’ or universities’ responsibilities should be kept to a minimum, lest they inhibit the ‘mutual trust, close and consistent collaboration, and continuing dialogue’ to which Ex corde Ecclesiae calls Church and university authorities.”
This seems like excuses to me, clarification is when the bishop tells you," uninvite that guy." Seriously the current criteria and some common sense is all we need.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Pope's address to a Catholic University
"mission" of the Catholic University, that is, to undertake scientific research and teaching activities in accordance with a consistent cultural and formative project, at the service of the young generations and the human and Christian development of society.
(work towards) a fruitful and harmonious synthesis between Catholic identity and full insertion into the Italian university system
http://www.catholicculture.org/culture/library/view.cfm?id=6730&repos=1&subrepos=0&searchid=479718
(work towards) a fruitful and harmonious synthesis between Catholic identity and full insertion into the Italian university system
http://www.catholicculture.org/culture/library/view.cfm?id=6730&repos=1&subrepos=0&searchid=479718
Philosophy in Aeterni Patris
from Aeterni Patris
http://www.vatican.va/holy_father/leo_xiii/encyclicals/documents/hf_l-xiii_enc_04081879_aeterni-patris_en.html
Nor is the triumph of the Christian faith a small one in using human reason to repel powerfully and speedily the attacks of its adversaries by the hostile arms which human reason itself supplied. This species of religious strife St. Jerome, writing to Magnus, notices as having been adopted by the Apostle of the Gentiles himself; Paul, the leader of the Christian army and the invincible orator, battling for the cause of Christ, skillfully turns even a chance inscription into an argument for the faith; for he had learned from the true David to wrest the sword from the hands of the enemy and to cut off the head of the boastful Goliath with his own weapon.(23) Moreover, the Church herself not only urges, but even commands, Christian teachers to seek help from philosophy.
Is philosophy an important of the Catholic education?
Domestic and civil society even, which, as all see, is exposed to great danger from this plague of perverse opinions, would certainly enjoy a far more peaceful and secure existence if a more wholesome doctrine were taught in the universities and high schools-one more in conformity with the teaching of the Church, such as is contained in the works of Thomas Aquinas.
Let carefully selected teachers endeavor to implant the doctrine of Thomas Aquinas in the minds of students, and set forth clearly his solidity and excellence over others. Let the universities already founded or to be founded by you illustrate and defend this doctrine, and use it for the refutation of prevailing errors.
also let us follow the example of the Angelic Doctor, who never gave himself to reading or writing without first begging the blessing of God, who modestly confessed that whatever he knew he had acquired not so much by his own study and labor as by the divine gift; and therefore let us all, in humble and united prayer, beseech God to send forth the spirit of knowledge and of understanding to the children of the Church and open their senses for the understanding of wisdom. ...offer up to God the most efficacious patronage of the Blessed Virgin Mary, who is called the seat of wisdom; having at the same time as advocates St. Joseph, the most chaste spouse of the Virgin, and Peter and Paul, the chiefs of the Apostles, whose truth renewed the earth which had fallen under the impure blight of error, filling it with the light of heavenly wisdom.
Should a Catholic only study the philosophy of the Angelic Doctor?
that question to be answered next time in Fides et Ratio
http://www.vatican.va/holy_father/leo_xiii/encyclicals/documents/hf_l-xiii_enc_04081879_aeterni-patris_en.html
Nor is the triumph of the Christian faith a small one in using human reason to repel powerfully and speedily the attacks of its adversaries by the hostile arms which human reason itself supplied. This species of religious strife St. Jerome, writing to Magnus, notices as having been adopted by the Apostle of the Gentiles himself; Paul, the leader of the Christian army and the invincible orator, battling for the cause of Christ, skillfully turns even a chance inscription into an argument for the faith; for he had learned from the true David to wrest the sword from the hands of the enemy and to cut off the head of the boastful Goliath with his own weapon.(23) Moreover, the Church herself not only urges, but even commands, Christian teachers to seek help from philosophy.
Is philosophy an important of the Catholic education?
Domestic and civil society even, which, as all see, is exposed to great danger from this plague of perverse opinions, would certainly enjoy a far more peaceful and secure existence if a more wholesome doctrine were taught in the universities and high schools-one more in conformity with the teaching of the Church, such as is contained in the works of Thomas Aquinas.
Let carefully selected teachers endeavor to implant the doctrine of Thomas Aquinas in the minds of students, and set forth clearly his solidity and excellence over others. Let the universities already founded or to be founded by you illustrate and defend this doctrine, and use it for the refutation of prevailing errors.
also let us follow the example of the Angelic Doctor, who never gave himself to reading or writing without first begging the blessing of God, who modestly confessed that whatever he knew he had acquired not so much by his own study and labor as by the divine gift; and therefore let us all, in humble and united prayer, beseech God to send forth the spirit of knowledge and of understanding to the children of the Church and open their senses for the understanding of wisdom. ...offer up to God the most efficacious patronage of the Blessed Virgin Mary, who is called the seat of wisdom; having at the same time as advocates St. Joseph, the most chaste spouse of the Virgin, and Peter and Paul, the chiefs of the Apostles, whose truth renewed the earth which had fallen under the impure blight of error, filling it with the light of heavenly wisdom.
Should a Catholic only study the philosophy of the Angelic Doctor?
that question to be answered next time in Fides et Ratio
Actin University
from wdtprs.com/blog
Acton University, an annual event held in Grand Rapids, MI, is the most authentically ecumenical event I have ever attended. It doesn’t set up to be obviously ecumenical, of course. Perhaps that why you find an authentic ecumenism here.
from Acton
http://www.acton.org/actonu/
Acton University is a unique, four-day exploration of the intellectual foundations of a free society. Guided by a distinguished, international faculty, Acton University is an opportunity to deepen your knowledge and integrate rigorous philosophy, Christian theology and sound economics.
At Acton University, you will:
Build your own curriculum. Choose from more than fifty courses ranging from the theological and philosophical, to the policy-oriented and practical.
Learn from world-class faculty. Meet leading authorities on economics, theology, public policy, globalization, the environment, and other disciplines.
Network. Interact with people from diverse backgrounds who share a concern about issues at the heart of faith and freedom.
Equip yourself to engage in the debate. Better articulate your understanding of the Judeo-Christian view of liberty and morality and its application in a free and virtuous society.
still a little bit of clarification would be helpful
Acton University, an annual event held in Grand Rapids, MI, is the most authentically ecumenical event I have ever attended. It doesn’t set up to be obviously ecumenical, of course. Perhaps that why you find an authentic ecumenism here.
from Acton
http://www.acton.org/actonu/
Acton University is a unique, four-day exploration of the intellectual foundations of a free society. Guided by a distinguished, international faculty, Acton University is an opportunity to deepen your knowledge and integrate rigorous philosophy, Christian theology and sound economics.
At Acton University, you will:
Build your own curriculum. Choose from more than fifty courses ranging from the theological and philosophical, to the policy-oriented and practical.
Learn from world-class faculty. Meet leading authorities on economics, theology, public policy, globalization, the environment, and other disciplines.
Network. Interact with people from diverse backgrounds who share a concern about issues at the heart of faith and freedom.
Equip yourself to engage in the debate. Better articulate your understanding of the Judeo-Christian view of liberty and morality and its application in a free and virtuous society.
still a little bit of clarification would be helpful
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
AUSTRALIA: Universities offer food aid to poor students
AUSTRALIA: Universities offer food aid to poor students
31 August 2008
Issue: 0042
The rising cost of living is hitting some Australian university students so hard that the universities have now resorted to handing out emergency food aid, reports ABC News. Student organisations say many students across the country are going hungry, and the Australian Catholic University in Sydney has set up a system where students can take food handouts anonymously.
It says an increasing number of students are turning up to classes hungry, forced to skip meals because of the growing costs of living. So the university has had to set up a cupboard stocked with essential food items. Cath Leary, who runs the programme, says dozens of students access it on a daily basis.
"Some people are doing it really tough, some people are eating one meal a day," she said, adding that the university is hearing from counsellors in particular of students reporting that they are probably not eating as much as they should be. She thinks many more students than are using the cupboard, are going hungry.
Full report on the ABC News site
31 August 2008
Issue: 0042
The rising cost of living is hitting some Australian university students so hard that the universities have now resorted to handing out emergency food aid, reports ABC News. Student organisations say many students across the country are going hungry, and the Australian Catholic University in Sydney has set up a system where students can take food handouts anonymously.
It says an increasing number of students are turning up to classes hungry, forced to skip meals because of the growing costs of living. So the university has had to set up a cupboard stocked with essential food items. Cath Leary, who runs the programme, says dozens of students access it on a daily basis.
"Some people are doing it really tough, some people are eating one meal a day," she said, adding that the university is hearing from counsellors in particular of students reporting that they are probably not eating as much as they should be. She thinks many more students than are using the cupboard, are going hungry.
Full report on the ABC News site
Uh-oh for SLU
In there newspaper
"Is SLU a Catholic university or simply a University based on Catholic traditions? This issue was officially settled in a 2007 lawsuit against the University, but the Jesuit Mission is still used to justify University decisions."
I hope for the first but the language does not seem promising
http://media.www.unewsonline.com/media/storage/paper953/news/2009/04/30/Editorials/Questions.Unanswered.And.Things.Left.Unsaid-3733761.shtml
also
"The current ordeal with the "All of Us" campaign has been a great means for the administration to disappoint us seniors (or potentially to inspire us) as we walk away from SLU. Seeing the way the administration has handled Una's V-Day events has been extremely frustrating, and I was not even directly involved with the productions of A Memory, A Monologue, A Rant, A Prayer or The Vagina Monologues.
The fact that MMRP was not allowed on campus is perhaps the biggest disappointment, especially after University President Lawrence Biondi, S.J., attempted to mark it as coming straight out of the script for The Vagina Monologues, which is an outright lie."
again confusing
http://media.www.unewsonline.com/media/storage/paper953/news/2009/04/30/Commentary/Legacy.Of.A.Slu.Education-3733843.shtml
"Is SLU a Catholic university or simply a University based on Catholic traditions? This issue was officially settled in a 2007 lawsuit against the University, but the Jesuit Mission is still used to justify University decisions."
I hope for the first but the language does not seem promising
http://media.www.unewsonline.com/media/storage/paper953/news/2009/04/30/Editorials/Questions.Unanswered.And.Things.Left.Unsaid-3733761.shtml
also
"The current ordeal with the "All of Us" campaign has been a great means for the administration to disappoint us seniors (or potentially to inspire us) as we walk away from SLU. Seeing the way the administration has handled Una's V-Day events has been extremely frustrating, and I was not even directly involved with the productions of A Memory, A Monologue, A Rant, A Prayer or The Vagina Monologues.
The fact that MMRP was not allowed on campus is perhaps the biggest disappointment, especially after University President Lawrence Biondi, S.J., attempted to mark it as coming straight out of the script for The Vagina Monologues, which is an outright lie."
again confusing
http://media.www.unewsonline.com/media/storage/paper953/news/2009/04/30/Commentary/Legacy.Of.A.Slu.Education-3733843.shtml
SLU update
Two professors clarify the Church's stance on homosexuality and the role of the university to defend her Church.
"those who demand "gay rights," though they preach tolerance, are intolerant of the core beliefs of the Catholic Church "
"The Catholic Church has always tried to change the minds of both homosexuals and heterosexuals who make sexual satisfaction the center of their lives and think it can justify any behavior. The Church loves them enough to tell them when it believes they're harming themselves or others."
http://media.www.unewsonline.com/media/storage/paper953/news/2009/04/30/LettersToTheEditor/Promoting.Catholic.Doctrine-3733782.shtml
"those who demand "gay rights," though they preach tolerance, are intolerant of the core beliefs of the Catholic Church "
"The Catholic Church has always tried to change the minds of both homosexuals and heterosexuals who make sexual satisfaction the center of their lives and think it can justify any behavior. The Church loves them enough to tell them when it believes they're harming themselves or others."
http://media.www.unewsonline.com/media/storage/paper953/news/2009/04/30/LettersToTheEditor/Promoting.Catholic.Doctrine-3733782.shtml
Ex Corde Ecclesiae II
to be applied concretely at the local and regional levels by Episcopal Conferences and other Assemblies of Catholic Hierarchy
A Catholic University, like every university, is a community of scholars representing various branches of human knowledge. It is dedicated to research, to teaching, and to various kinds of service in accordance with its cultural mission.
A Catholic University, as Catholic, informs and carries out its research, teaching, and all other activities with Catholic ideals, principles and attitudes. It is linked with the Church either by a formal, constitutive and statutory bond or by reason of an institutional commitment made by those responsible for it.
Every Catholic University is to make known its Catholic identity, either in a mission statement or in some other appropriate public document, unless authorized otherwise by the competent ecclesiastical Authority.
4. Catholic teaching and discipline are to influence all university activities, while the freedom of conscience of each person is to be fully respected(46). Any official action or commitment of the University is to be in accord with its Catholic identity.
Freedom in research and teaching is recognized and respected according to the principles and methods of each individual discipline, so long as the rights of the individual and of the community are preserved within the confines of the truth and the common good
. The responsibility for maintaining and strengthening the Catholic identity of the University rests primarily with the University itself.
The identity of a Catholic University is essentially linked to the quality of its teachers and to respect for Catholic doctrine.
All teachers and all administrators, at the time of their appointment, are to be informed about the Catholic identity of the Institution and its implications, and about their responsibility to promote, or at least to respect, that identity.
all Catholic teachers are to be faithful to, and all other teachers are to respect, Catholic doctrine and morals in their research and teaching.
the number of non-Catholic teachers should not be allowed to constitute a majority within the Institution, which is and must remain Catholic.
The education of students is to combine academic and professional development with formation in moral and religious principles and the social teachings of the Church; the programme of studies for each of the various professions is to include an appropriate ethical formation in that profession. Courses in Catholic doctrine are to be made available to all students
In ways consistent with its nature as a University, a Catholic University will contribute to the Church's work of evangelization.
If problems should arise concerning this Catholic character, the local Bishop is to take the initiatives necessary to resolve the matter,
promote the pastoral care of all members of the university community, and to be especially attentive to the spiritual development of those who are Catholics... in order to unite intellectual learning with the religious dimension of life.
All members of the university community are to be invited to assist the work of pastoral ministry, and to collaborate in its activities.
(Cooperation)
Conclusion
a cultural and religious meaning of vital importance because it concerns the very future of humanity.
the task of bringing the message of Christ to man, to society, to the various cultures:
The salvific action of the Church on cultures is achieved, first of all, by means of persons, families and educators... Jesus Christ, our Saviour, offers his light and his hope to all those who promote the sciences, the arts, letters and the numerous fields developed by modem culture.
The Church and the world have great need of your witness and of your capable, free, and responsible contribution.
A Catholic University, like every university, is a community of scholars representing various branches of human knowledge. It is dedicated to research, to teaching, and to various kinds of service in accordance with its cultural mission.
A Catholic University, as Catholic, informs and carries out its research, teaching, and all other activities with Catholic ideals, principles and attitudes. It is linked with the Church either by a formal, constitutive and statutory bond or by reason of an institutional commitment made by those responsible for it.
Every Catholic University is to make known its Catholic identity, either in a mission statement or in some other appropriate public document, unless authorized otherwise by the competent ecclesiastical Authority.
4. Catholic teaching and discipline are to influence all university activities, while the freedom of conscience of each person is to be fully respected(46). Any official action or commitment of the University is to be in accord with its Catholic identity.
Freedom in research and teaching is recognized and respected according to the principles and methods of each individual discipline, so long as the rights of the individual and of the community are preserved within the confines of the truth and the common good
. The responsibility for maintaining and strengthening the Catholic identity of the University rests primarily with the University itself.
The identity of a Catholic University is essentially linked to the quality of its teachers and to respect for Catholic doctrine.
All teachers and all administrators, at the time of their appointment, are to be informed about the Catholic identity of the Institution and its implications, and about their responsibility to promote, or at least to respect, that identity.
all Catholic teachers are to be faithful to, and all other teachers are to respect, Catholic doctrine and morals in their research and teaching.
the number of non-Catholic teachers should not be allowed to constitute a majority within the Institution, which is and must remain Catholic.
The education of students is to combine academic and professional development with formation in moral and religious principles and the social teachings of the Church; the programme of studies for each of the various professions is to include an appropriate ethical formation in that profession. Courses in Catholic doctrine are to be made available to all students
In ways consistent with its nature as a University, a Catholic University will contribute to the Church's work of evangelization.
If problems should arise concerning this Catholic character, the local Bishop is to take the initiatives necessary to resolve the matter,
promote the pastoral care of all members of the university community, and to be especially attentive to the spiritual development of those who are Catholics... in order to unite intellectual learning with the religious dimension of life.
All members of the university community are to be invited to assist the work of pastoral ministry, and to collaborate in its activities.
(Cooperation)
Conclusion
a cultural and religious meaning of vital importance because it concerns the very future of humanity.
the task of bringing the message of Christ to man, to society, to the various cultures:
The salvific action of the Church on cultures is achieved, first of all, by means of persons, families and educators... Jesus Christ, our Saviour, offers his light and his hope to all those who promote the sciences, the arts, letters and the numerous fields developed by modem culture.
The Church and the world have great need of your witness and of your capable, free, and responsible contribution.
Ex Corde Ecclesiae Part 1
BORN FROM THE HEART of the Church, a Catholic University is located in that course of tradition which may be traced back to the very origin of the University as an institution.
By vocation, the Universitas magistrorum et scholarium is dedicated to research, to teaching and to the education of students who freely associate with their teachers in a common love of knowledge
to unite existentially by intellectual effort...the search for truth, and the certainty of already knowing the fount of truth
They are for me (Pope John Paul II) a lively and promising sign of the fecundity of the Christian mind in the heart of every culture.
It is also my desire to express my pleasure and gratitude to the very many Catholic scholars engaged in teaching and research in non-Catholic Universities...a stimulus to the selfless search for truth and for the wisdom that comes from above.
There is only one cultre: that of man, by man and for man...The Church... explores the mysteries of humanity and of the world, clarifying them in the light of Revelation.
between the unfathomable richness of the salvific message of the Gospel and the variety and immensity of the fields of knowledge in which that richness is incarnated by it, a Catholic University enables the Church to institute an incomparably fertile dialogue with people of every culture.
Catholic Universities are called to a continuous renewal, both as "Universities" and as "Catholic".
what is at stake is the very meaning of the human person
that "the Christian mind may achieve, as it were, a public, persistent and universal presence in the whole enterprise of advancing higher culture and that the students of these institutions become people outstanding in learning, ready to shoulder society's heavier burdens and to witness the faith to the world
Catholic Universities are essential to (The Church's) growth and to the development of Christian culture and human progress.
essential characteristics:
1. a Christian inspiration not only of individuals but of the university community as such;
2. a continuing reflection in the light of the Catholic faith upon the growing treasury of human knowledge, to which it seeks to contribute by its own research;
3. fidelity to the Christian message as it comes to us through the Church;
4. an institutional commitment to the service of the people of God and of the human family in their pilgrimage to the transcendent goal which gives meaning to life
In a Catholic University, research necessarily includes (a) the search for an integration of knowledge, (b) a dialogue between faith and reason, (c) an ethical concern, and (d) a theological perspective.
Theology plays a particularly important role in the search for a synthesis of knowledge as well as in the dialogue between faith and reason. It serves all other disciplines in their search for meaning, not only by helping them to investigate how their discoveries will affect individuals and society but also by bringing a perspective and an orientation not contained within their own methodologies.
interdisciplinary studies, assisted by a careful and thorough study of philosophy and theology, enable students to acquire an organic vision of reality and to develop a continuing desire for intellectual progress.
Through research and teaching the students are educated in the various disciplines so as to become truly competent in the specific sectors in which they will devote themselves to the service of society and of the Church, but at the same time prepared to give the witness of their faith to the world.
University teachers should seek to improve their competence and endeavour to set the content, objectives, methods, and results of research in an individual discipline within the framework of a coherent world vision.
Students are challenged to pursue an education that combines excellence in humanistic and cultural development with specialized professional training.
Directors and administrators in a Catholic University promote the constant growth of the University and its community through a leadership of service; the dedication and witness of the non-academic staff are vital for the identity and life of the University.
The future of Catholic Universities depends to a great extent on the competent and dedicated service of lay Catholics.
Bishops have a particular responsibility to promote Catholic Universities, and especially to promote and assist in the preservation and strengthening of their Catholic identity, including the protection of their Catholic identity in relation to civil authorities.
since theology seeks an understanding of revealed truth whose authentic interpretation is entrusted to the Bishops of the Church(29), it is intrinsic to the principles and methods of their research and teaching in their academic discipline that theologians respect the authority of the Bishops, and assent to Catholic doctrine according to the degree of authority with which it is taught
The basic mission of a University is a continuous quest for truth through its research, and the preservation and communication of knowledge for the good of society
If need be, a Catholic University must have the courage to speak uncomfortable truths which do not please public opinion, but which are necessary to safeguard the authentic good of society.
Those involved in pastoral ministry will encourage teachers and students to become more aware of their responsibility towards those who are suffering physically or spiritually. Following the example of Christ, they will be particularly attentive to the poorest and to those who suffer economic, social, cultural or religious injustice. This responsibility begins within the academic community, but it also finds application beyond it.
Catholic students can, in fulfilment of their baptism, be prepared for active participation in the life of the Church; it can assist in developing and nurturing the value of marriage and family life, fostering vocations to the priesthood and religious life, stimulating the Christian commitment of the laity and imbuing every activity with the spirit of the Gospel
Various associations or movements of spiritual and apostolic life, especially those developed specifically for students, can be of great assistance in developing the pastoral aspects of university life
privileged place for a fruitful dialogue between the Gospel and culture.
A faith that places itself on the margin of what is human, of what is therefore culture, would be a faith unfaithful to the fullness of what the Word of God manifests and reveals, a decapitated faith, worse still, a faith in the process of self-annihilation
Among the criteria that characterize the values of a culture are above all, the meaning of the human person, his or her liberty, dignity, sense of responsibility, and openness to the transcendent. To a respect for persons is joined the preeminent value of the family, the primary unit of every human culture.
the dialogue between Christian thought and the modern sciences.
a living institutional witness to Christ and his message, so vitally important in cultures marked by secularism, or where Christ and his message are still virtually unknown.
Precisely because it is more and more conscious of its salvific mission in this world, the Church wants to have these centres closely connected with it; it wants to have them present and operative in spreading the authentic message of Christ
Extremely systematic this encyclical elaborates on the purpose of a university and what is meant by a Catholic university. Clarifies role of students, teachers, administration, the Bishop, and the university itself. Challenges all universities to seek truth in light of the dignity of every human person and challenges the Catholic university to demonstrate that all (academic) roads lead to Rome
By vocation, the Universitas magistrorum et scholarium is dedicated to research, to teaching and to the education of students who freely associate with their teachers in a common love of knowledge
to unite existentially by intellectual effort...the search for truth, and the certainty of already knowing the fount of truth
They are for me (Pope John Paul II) a lively and promising sign of the fecundity of the Christian mind in the heart of every culture.
It is also my desire to express my pleasure and gratitude to the very many Catholic scholars engaged in teaching and research in non-Catholic Universities...a stimulus to the selfless search for truth and for the wisdom that comes from above.
There is only one cultre: that of man, by man and for man...The Church... explores the mysteries of humanity and of the world, clarifying them in the light of Revelation.
between the unfathomable richness of the salvific message of the Gospel and the variety and immensity of the fields of knowledge in which that richness is incarnated by it, a Catholic University enables the Church to institute an incomparably fertile dialogue with people of every culture.
Catholic Universities are called to a continuous renewal, both as "Universities" and as "Catholic".
what is at stake is the very meaning of the human person
that "the Christian mind may achieve, as it were, a public, persistent and universal presence in the whole enterprise of advancing higher culture and that the students of these institutions become people outstanding in learning, ready to shoulder society's heavier burdens and to witness the faith to the world
Catholic Universities are essential to (The Church's) growth and to the development of Christian culture and human progress.
essential characteristics:
1. a Christian inspiration not only of individuals but of the university community as such;
2. a continuing reflection in the light of the Catholic faith upon the growing treasury of human knowledge, to which it seeks to contribute by its own research;
3. fidelity to the Christian message as it comes to us through the Church;
4. an institutional commitment to the service of the people of God and of the human family in their pilgrimage to the transcendent goal which gives meaning to life
In a Catholic University, research necessarily includes (a) the search for an integration of knowledge, (b) a dialogue between faith and reason, (c) an ethical concern, and (d) a theological perspective.
Theology plays a particularly important role in the search for a synthesis of knowledge as well as in the dialogue between faith and reason. It serves all other disciplines in their search for meaning, not only by helping them to investigate how their discoveries will affect individuals and society but also by bringing a perspective and an orientation not contained within their own methodologies.
interdisciplinary studies, assisted by a careful and thorough study of philosophy and theology, enable students to acquire an organic vision of reality and to develop a continuing desire for intellectual progress.
Through research and teaching the students are educated in the various disciplines so as to become truly competent in the specific sectors in which they will devote themselves to the service of society and of the Church, but at the same time prepared to give the witness of their faith to the world.
University teachers should seek to improve their competence and endeavour to set the content, objectives, methods, and results of research in an individual discipline within the framework of a coherent world vision.
Students are challenged to pursue an education that combines excellence in humanistic and cultural development with specialized professional training.
Directors and administrators in a Catholic University promote the constant growth of the University and its community through a leadership of service; the dedication and witness of the non-academic staff are vital for the identity and life of the University.
The future of Catholic Universities depends to a great extent on the competent and dedicated service of lay Catholics.
Bishops have a particular responsibility to promote Catholic Universities, and especially to promote and assist in the preservation and strengthening of their Catholic identity, including the protection of their Catholic identity in relation to civil authorities.
since theology seeks an understanding of revealed truth whose authentic interpretation is entrusted to the Bishops of the Church(29), it is intrinsic to the principles and methods of their research and teaching in their academic discipline that theologians respect the authority of the Bishops, and assent to Catholic doctrine according to the degree of authority with which it is taught
The basic mission of a University is a continuous quest for truth through its research, and the preservation and communication of knowledge for the good of society
If need be, a Catholic University must have the courage to speak uncomfortable truths which do not please public opinion, but which are necessary to safeguard the authentic good of society.
Those involved in pastoral ministry will encourage teachers and students to become more aware of their responsibility towards those who are suffering physically or spiritually. Following the example of Christ, they will be particularly attentive to the poorest and to those who suffer economic, social, cultural or religious injustice. This responsibility begins within the academic community, but it also finds application beyond it.
Catholic students can, in fulfilment of their baptism, be prepared for active participation in the life of the Church; it can assist in developing and nurturing the value of marriage and family life, fostering vocations to the priesthood and religious life, stimulating the Christian commitment of the laity and imbuing every activity with the spirit of the Gospel
Various associations or movements of spiritual and apostolic life, especially those developed specifically for students, can be of great assistance in developing the pastoral aspects of university life
privileged place for a fruitful dialogue between the Gospel and culture.
A faith that places itself on the margin of what is human, of what is therefore culture, would be a faith unfaithful to the fullness of what the Word of God manifests and reveals, a decapitated faith, worse still, a faith in the process of self-annihilation
Among the criteria that characterize the values of a culture are above all, the meaning of the human person, his or her liberty, dignity, sense of responsibility, and openness to the transcendent. To a respect for persons is joined the preeminent value of the family, the primary unit of every human culture.
the dialogue between Christian thought and the modern sciences.
a living institutional witness to Christ and his message, so vitally important in cultures marked by secularism, or where Christ and his message are still virtually unknown.
Precisely because it is more and more conscious of its salvific mission in this world, the Church wants to have these centres closely connected with it; it wants to have them present and operative in spreading the authentic message of Christ
Extremely systematic this encyclical elaborates on the purpose of a university and what is meant by a Catholic university. Clarifies role of students, teachers, administration, the Bishop, and the university itself. Challenges all universities to seek truth in light of the dignity of every human person and challenges the Catholic university to demonstrate that all (academic) roads lead to Rome
A Catholic university in its infancy
Juba — The Catholic University of Sudan will start a BA degree in Economics and Business Administration at its Juba campus.
The acting Vice-Chancellor, Fr Michael Schultheis, SJ, told Bakhita Radio that the 28 students who passed the introductory year will start the new course in August. He added that the University will start an evening course for working students.
The new course has 150 applicants. The Catholic University of Sudan was licensed on August 1, 2008 and opened on September 29.
The Juba campus functions provisionally in the Comboni Secondary School premises. It has a library with 20 thousand titles in two containers. The works for permanent buildings for the campus are underway.
http://allafrica.com/stories/200906120652.html
I guess that clears that up. A university ain't about the buildings.
The acting Vice-Chancellor, Fr Michael Schultheis, SJ, told Bakhita Radio that the 28 students who passed the introductory year will start the new course in August. He added that the University will start an evening course for working students.
The new course has 150 applicants. The Catholic University of Sudan was licensed on August 1, 2008 and opened on September 29.
The Juba campus functions provisionally in the Comboni Secondary School premises. It has a library with 20 thousand titles in two containers. The works for permanent buildings for the campus are underway.
http://allafrica.com/stories/200906120652.html
I guess that clears that up. A university ain't about the buildings.
Archbishop of Detroit is Catholic University's New Chairman
Archbishop Vigneron was appointed in January by Pope Benedict as the new prelate for the Archdiocese of Detroit.
Archbishop Allen Vigneron, of Detroit, was elected Tuesday by the Trustees as Chairman of the Board for Catholic University of America (CUA).
Chartered by the Holy See in 1887, Catholic University is the “Pope’s University” in the United States. As such, the institution is under the direct supervision of the U.S. bishops.
http://www.catholic.org/national/national_story.php?id=33781&cb300=vocations
Sounds like good news. I wish I new some more details.
Archbishop Allen Vigneron, of Detroit, was elected Tuesday by the Trustees as Chairman of the Board for Catholic University of America (CUA).
Chartered by the Holy See in 1887, Catholic University is the “Pope’s University” in the United States. As such, the institution is under the direct supervision of the U.S. bishops.
http://www.catholic.org/national/national_story.php?id=33781&cb300=vocations
Sounds like good news. I wish I new some more details.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Bishop tells students: challenge false teachings
Cork-born Bishop Patrick O’Donoghue urged Catholic students at Oxford University to have “an enquiring fidelity” to the teaching of the Church and to abandon “the fictions foisted on us by some clergy, religious and laity who are disobedient and arrogant in their will-to-power.”
The bishop is the author of the 2-part plan for renewal called Fit for Mission? Schools and Fit for Mission? Church which has created a stir not just in Britain but around the English-speaking world.
He believed that full renewal will only happen when Catholics, particularly leaders in “schools, seminaries, parishes, and dioceses,” stop obstructing the authentic implementation of the Council and “positively engage with it.”
He invited them to “re-discover the devotions of the Church, such as praying the rosary, the Stations of the Cross, Benediction and regular confession. The Holy Father goes every week, so why not us also.”
He asked them to “start from the assumption” that the Church has good reasons for what she teaches, and to “search out those reasons” in the Scriptures and the Catechism.
A Catholic who says or teaches anything contrary to Church teaching should be politely but firmly challenged, “be they a lay catechist, teacher, deacon, priest or even a bishop.”
http://alive.ie/headline2.php
It is are responsibility as students to make sure we are being well formed.
Also I am curious about Fit for Mission? Schools
The bishop is the author of the 2-part plan for renewal called Fit for Mission? Schools and Fit for Mission? Church which has created a stir not just in Britain but around the English-speaking world.
He believed that full renewal will only happen when Catholics, particularly leaders in “schools, seminaries, parishes, and dioceses,” stop obstructing the authentic implementation of the Council and “positively engage with it.”
He invited them to “re-discover the devotions of the Church, such as praying the rosary, the Stations of the Cross, Benediction and regular confession. The Holy Father goes every week, so why not us also.”
He asked them to “start from the assumption” that the Church has good reasons for what she teaches, and to “search out those reasons” in the Scriptures and the Catechism.
A Catholic who says or teaches anything contrary to Church teaching should be politely but firmly challenged, “be they a lay catechist, teacher, deacon, priest or even a bishop.”
http://alive.ie/headline2.php
It is are responsibility as students to make sure we are being well formed.
Also I am curious about Fit for Mission? Schools
Intro to Ex Corde Ecclesiae
The encyclical on Catholic universities and universities in general by Servant of God Pope John Paul II. The title translates to: From the Heart of the Church.It was written to expand and clarify Book 3 Title 3 Chapter 2 of the Code of Canon Law (http://www.vatican.va/archive/ENG1104/__P2O.HTM) . It was written in part in response to such ideologies (pronounced heresies) as those expressed in the Land O'Lakes Statement (I have not read it and it is not very high on my reading list but it can be read here->) (http://consortium.villanova.edu/excorde/landlake.htm). Ex Corde Ecclesia sets the Bishop as the head, Christ as the center, and Sound Theology as the unifier of the University. I have two pages left of the Encyclical and God's willing I will have a run through up tonight/
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Mandatum
Below is a sample Mandatum.
Attestation of the Professor of Catholic Theological Disciplines
I hereby declare my role and responsibility as a professor of a Catholic theological discipline within the full communion of the Church.
As a professor of a Catholic theological discipline, therefore, I am committed to teach authentic Catholic doctrine and to refrain from putting forth as Catholic teaching anything contrary to the Church's magisterium.
**************************************
Acknowledgment of Diocesan Bishop
I hereby acknowledge your declaration to remain within the full communion of the Catholic Church in fulfillment of your role and responsibility as a teacher of Catholic theological disciplines.
I recognize your commitment as a teacher of Catholic theological disciplines to teach authentic Catholic doctrine and to refrain from putting forth as Catholic teaching anything contrary to the Church's magisterium.
While the mandatum does not constitute you as an agent of the magisterium, it does affirm that your work as a teacher of Catholic theological disciplines is an important part of the Church's mission.
This mandatum remains in effect as long as you are engaged in the teaching of theology or until it is withdrawn by competent ecclesiastical authority for a just cause.
for more info
http://www.usccb.org/bishops/mandatumguidelines.shtml
Attestation of the Professor of Catholic Theological Disciplines
I hereby declare my role and responsibility as a professor of a Catholic theological discipline within the full communion of the Church.
As a professor of a Catholic theological discipline, therefore, I am committed to teach authentic Catholic doctrine and to refrain from putting forth as Catholic teaching anything contrary to the Church's magisterium.
**************************************
Acknowledgment of Diocesan Bishop
I hereby acknowledge your declaration to remain within the full communion of the Catholic Church in fulfillment of your role and responsibility as a teacher of Catholic theological disciplines.
I recognize your commitment as a teacher of Catholic theological disciplines to teach authentic Catholic doctrine and to refrain from putting forth as Catholic teaching anything contrary to the Church's magisterium.
While the mandatum does not constitute you as an agent of the magisterium, it does affirm that your work as a teacher of Catholic theological disciplines is an important part of the Church's mission.
This mandatum remains in effect as long as you are engaged in the teaching of theology or until it is withdrawn by competent ecclesiastical authority for a just cause.
for more info
http://www.usccb.org/bishops/mandatumguidelines.shtml
Choosing a Catholic College
"I think it important at the outset to point out what I do not consider the principal criteria in choosing a Catholic college, to wit: a pretty campus, good food, athletics (participation in the NCAA "March Madness" or New Year's Bowl games), famous alumni, social life, success in sending graduates off in to the professions, the understandably biased opinion that alumni, faculty, and administration members have about their own institution, and so on. These may or may not be useful criteria in selecting a university to attend, but they are not related to what makes a college Catholic. I have found through the years a surprising amount of hopeful self-deception about the Catholicity of colleges. This is true for any number of reasons, most of which are related to a "The Way We Were" nostalgia concerning pre-Vatican II Catholicism. On the other hand, there also is a general sense of despair about sending the kids anywhere for four years of college without seeing them lose their faith or their moral compass."
"At the heart of a truly Catholic university will be a sound theology department which, as befits the "Queen of the Sciences," should be considered the central department of the university."
"The majority of Catholic colleges have a two- or three-course requirement in theology for its undergraduates, who presumably will consider the teaching of their professors as authoritative. A college that habitually tolerates teaching that is at odds with the Church's teaching forfeits the name Catholic in any real sense."
"A list of the on-campus speakers during the last academic year who dealt with themes concerning Catholic doctrine and morals would also be revealing. After all, why should your tuition money support the dissemination of opinion antithetical to Catholic teaching?Another good indicator is simply to probe the knowledge of any recent graduate. A few pointed questions will quickly reveal what he knows and where he stands with regard to the Church and her teaching. Finally, if the university harbors any well-known "dissenters," the case is closed."
"it must believe that there are areas of knowledge which should be common to all students in the areas of literature, philosophy, music, and art.If the university views itself merely as a place that prepares students for a career rather than a place that prepares them for life and gives them a deep appreciation of knowledge as an end in itself in the natural sphere, then it disqualifies itself as anything other than an academic supermarket."
"Be sure to read the colleges' mission statement (if they have one). If you encounter words like standard, belief, maturity, conviction, commitment, marriage, family, evangelization, culture, character, truth and knowledge, take a closer look. On the other hand, if you encounter words and phrases like values, openness, just society, search, diversity, and professional preparation, move on." HA
"The state of the college chaplaincy can be a strong indicator. What percentage of the student body and faculty is Catholic? What percentage practice their faith in the traditional sense of weekly Mass and (at least) yearly confession? Does anyone on campus know or care? Is the emphasis placed on catechesis, formation, practice, and evangelization rather than on "social justice" and "community building"? Are a significant number of students responding to the call of the priesthood, religious life, or other forms of total dedication in the world?"
"Do the college dormitories at the school you are examining have basically the same rules and regulations, moral tone, and adult supervision that you would wish for your college-age child if he were living at home?" good question
"Throwing hundreds of young men and women together in close quarters produces inevitable and natural results, most of which–in the best-case scenario–do not prepare them well for Christian marriage and which–in the worst case–cause irreparable damage. If you dare, spend the night or even a day or two living in a dormitory. In my experience, most parents do not want to believe that atmosphere of hedonistic immaturity and boorishness that reigns in these places. High spirits are one thing; animal behavior raised to an art is another."
"Secular universities have many problems, but claiming to be Catholic is certainly not one of them. If you can't find the right Catholic college, send your child to the best possible secular university–taking into account cost and the student's academic ability–and encourage your child to bring his belief and practice as a Catholic to bear on his studies and friendships. Who knows, with the passage of time–perhaps decades or less–we may Catholicize the secular universities. "The Pontifical Princeton University" has a nice ring to it, don't you think?"
http://www.catholicity.com/mccloskey/choosingcollege.html
"At the heart of a truly Catholic university will be a sound theology department which, as befits the "Queen of the Sciences," should be considered the central department of the university."
"The majority of Catholic colleges have a two- or three-course requirement in theology for its undergraduates, who presumably will consider the teaching of their professors as authoritative. A college that habitually tolerates teaching that is at odds with the Church's teaching forfeits the name Catholic in any real sense."
"A list of the on-campus speakers during the last academic year who dealt with themes concerning Catholic doctrine and morals would also be revealing. After all, why should your tuition money support the dissemination of opinion antithetical to Catholic teaching?Another good indicator is simply to probe the knowledge of any recent graduate. A few pointed questions will quickly reveal what he knows and where he stands with regard to the Church and her teaching. Finally, if the university harbors any well-known "dissenters," the case is closed."
"it must believe that there are areas of knowledge which should be common to all students in the areas of literature, philosophy, music, and art.If the university views itself merely as a place that prepares students for a career rather than a place that prepares them for life and gives them a deep appreciation of knowledge as an end in itself in the natural sphere, then it disqualifies itself as anything other than an academic supermarket."
"Be sure to read the colleges' mission statement (if they have one). If you encounter words like standard, belief, maturity, conviction, commitment, marriage, family, evangelization, culture, character, truth and knowledge, take a closer look. On the other hand, if you encounter words and phrases like values, openness, just society, search, diversity, and professional preparation, move on." HA
"The state of the college chaplaincy can be a strong indicator. What percentage of the student body and faculty is Catholic? What percentage practice their faith in the traditional sense of weekly Mass and (at least) yearly confession? Does anyone on campus know or care? Is the emphasis placed on catechesis, formation, practice, and evangelization rather than on "social justice" and "community building"? Are a significant number of students responding to the call of the priesthood, religious life, or other forms of total dedication in the world?"
"Do the college dormitories at the school you are examining have basically the same rules and regulations, moral tone, and adult supervision that you would wish for your college-age child if he were living at home?" good question
"Throwing hundreds of young men and women together in close quarters produces inevitable and natural results, most of which–in the best-case scenario–do not prepare them well for Christian marriage and which–in the worst case–cause irreparable damage. If you dare, spend the night or even a day or two living in a dormitory. In my experience, most parents do not want to believe that atmosphere of hedonistic immaturity and boorishness that reigns in these places. High spirits are one thing; animal behavior raised to an art is another."
"Secular universities have many problems, but claiming to be Catholic is certainly not one of them. If you can't find the right Catholic college, send your child to the best possible secular university–taking into account cost and the student's academic ability–and encourage your child to bring his belief and practice as a Catholic to bear on his studies and friendships. Who knows, with the passage of time–perhaps decades or less–we may Catholicize the secular universities. "The Pontifical Princeton University" has a nice ring to it, don't you think?"
http://www.catholicity.com/mccloskey/choosingcollege.html
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Catholic University Of Ukraine
Awesome Awesome Awesome
http://blogs.telegraph.co.uk/damian_thompson/blog/2009/06/06/in_ukraine_a_catholic_university_offers_a_way_forward_for_a_tired_western_church
"this wonderful institution offers a philosophy of teaching in radical contrast to the moribund model of Catholic further education found in this country and much of the West."
"teaches not only the liberal arts and trains Eastern-rite Catholic priests, but also places a community of mentally and physically handicapped people at the centre of its spiritual and social life."
This is similar to a program not affiliated with the university in the U.S. I will get back to you with the name. Also if I am not mistaken this idea may have come from MacIntyre and his ideas of community.
http://www.ucu.edu.ua/eng/about/
"The Ukrainian Catholic University is an open academic community living the Eastern Christian tradition and forming leaders to serve with professional excellence in Ukraine and internationally – for the glory of God, the common good, and the dignity of the human person.
Type of institution: A private institution for education and research. Founded by the St. Clement Fundation, whose elected head is Patriarch Lubomyr (Husar), the head of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church."
They don't just preach Catholicism. They don't just teach sound theology and foster an environment of prayer. Do those things but live the Catholic life to. Ora et labora.
http://blogs.telegraph.co.uk/damian_thompson/blog/2009/06/06/in_ukraine_a_catholic_university_offers_a_way_forward_for_a_tired_western_church
"this wonderful institution offers a philosophy of teaching in radical contrast to the moribund model of Catholic further education found in this country and much of the West."
"teaches not only the liberal arts and trains Eastern-rite Catholic priests, but also places a community of mentally and physically handicapped people at the centre of its spiritual and social life."
This is similar to a program not affiliated with the university in the U.S. I will get back to you with the name. Also if I am not mistaken this idea may have come from MacIntyre and his ideas of community.
http://www.ucu.edu.ua/eng/about/
"The Ukrainian Catholic University is an open academic community living the Eastern Christian tradition and forming leaders to serve with professional excellence in Ukraine and internationally – for the glory of God, the common good, and the dignity of the human person.
Type of institution: A private institution for education and research. Founded by the St. Clement Fundation, whose elected head is Patriarch Lubomyr (Husar), the head of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church."
They don't just preach Catholicism. They don't just teach sound theology and foster an environment of prayer. Do those things but live the Catholic life to. Ora et labora.
Friday, June 5, 2009
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
four NEW articles
(5 including this one)
It's been a while since my last post. I've been doing research and want to remind everyone I do not have all the answers. If anyone would care to contribute to the blog in any way please feel free to submit an article. I try desperately to show what's available for the student in general and the Catholic in particular. Please feel free to comment or email me suggestions.
It's been a while since my last post. I've been doing research and want to remind everyone I do not have all the answers. If anyone would care to contribute to the blog in any way please feel free to submit an article. I try desperately to show what's available for the student in general and the Catholic in particular. Please feel free to comment or email me suggestions.
Catholic Campus Ministry Association
"CCMA Vision Statement
CCMA aspires to excellence in leadership, programs and resources for Catholic campus ministers and the Church so that:
* All Catholics in higher education will have rich and abundant opportunities for personal, spiritual and theological growth.
* All involved in Catholic campus ministry will embrace and proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ on campus, in the Church and throughout the world.
* All who participate in Catholic campus ministry will be formed and empowered to take their places as leader in the Church.
* The academic community will welcome the Catholic Intellectual Tradition as an indispensable partner in the search for truth and wisdom."
not bad not bad
CCMA aspires to excellence in leadership, programs and resources for Catholic campus ministers and the Church so that:
* All Catholics in higher education will have rich and abundant opportunities for personal, spiritual and theological growth.
* All involved in Catholic campus ministry will embrace and proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ on campus, in the Church and throughout the world.
* All who participate in Catholic campus ministry will be formed and empowered to take their places as leader in the Church.
* The academic community will welcome the Catholic Intellectual Tradition as an indispensable partner in the search for truth and wisdom."
not bad not bad
National Catholic Student Coalition
"provides students with the necessary resources, network, and partners in order to aid in the formation of faith-filled Catholics. In turn, we strive to empower students to take ownership of their Faith and enable them to grow as current and future leaders of the Church.
Guided by this mission, we provide students with the ability to utilize the ideals of the USCCB’s pastoral letter, Empowered by the Spirit, in order to live the Gospel in their collegiate lives."
* A Voice for Catholic students on campuses across the U.S.
* A Vision which strives to embody Catholic identity for college students across the nation
* A Network enabling campuses throughout the country to interact and share ideas.
* A Resource in the form of annual conferences, regional events and the new, on-line resource bank.
* A Partner with national and international associations whose missions are aligned with our own…
which includes: Catholic Campus Ministry Association (CCMA), Pax Romana CMICA/USA, International Movement of Catholic Students (IMCS), International Young Catholic Students (IYCS), National Association of Diocesan Directors of Campus Ministry (NADDCM), United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB)
There is a membership fee apparently
Cardinal Newman
I am looking into the history of the Newman societies, and hoping to read the book of this Servant of God his Eminence Henry Cardinal Newman on the university.
FOCUS part II
FOCUS seems to be behind in its game. They have yet to send me the information I signed up for several days ago on their website. Their website is impressive however. There core beliefs may be of interest:
Dynamic Orthodoxy:
"Dynamic Orthodoxy means being converted by all of Christ’s teaching and having a new mindset, the mindset of Jesus."
Living Tradition:
:the Tradition of the Church:
and
"to hand this truth on to others"
Vital Unity:
"Our faithfulness to Christ leads us to work for the unity Jesus prayed for. We strive to have an intense love for one another. (c.f. Jn 13:35) We love and follow the Pope, our Bishop, and our pastors with whom we work."
Heroic Generosity:
"Jesus heroically gave Himself up for us on the Cross and we are called to also give of ourselves and to carry our crosses as well."
They have a conference in a few months Dec 30 – Jan 3
Dynamic Orthodoxy:
"Dynamic Orthodoxy means being converted by all of Christ’s teaching and having a new mindset, the mindset of Jesus."
Living Tradition:
:the Tradition of the Church:
and
"to hand this truth on to others"
Vital Unity:
"Our faithfulness to Christ leads us to work for the unity Jesus prayed for. We strive to have an intense love for one another. (c.f. Jn 13:35) We love and follow the Pope, our Bishop, and our pastors with whom we work."
Heroic Generosity:
"Jesus heroically gave Himself up for us on the Cross and we are called to also give of ourselves and to carry our crosses as well."
They have a conference in a few months Dec 30 – Jan 3
Friday, May 29, 2009
FOCUS
Fellowship of Catholic University Students
I just found out about this and am looking for information. They seem like a solid group.
I just found out about this and am looking for information. They seem like a solid group.
Monday, May 25, 2009
Masculinty on Campus
We need Priests, and we need real men to be Priests.
What's so intriguing? The report shows that college men are pressured to be stereotypically "masculine" without doing the hard work of getting a good college education. In other words, they are expected to be Rambo and Steven Hawkings by nature not effort. In fact, any effort they might put into becoming Well-educated Men is seen as decidedly "gay" or feminine by themselves and their struggling peers.
How did this happen? The report is fuzzy on this question. My guess is that there is a combination of factors.
First, the feministization of college campuses places men in a position of repressing their masculinity publicly and overemphasizing it privately (dorms, frats, etc.). Men are oppressed into being "feminist" in class by ideologue profs and campus administrators. Then, the more extreme forms of outrageous masculine behavior (binge drinking, fighting, sexual aggressiveness) are indulged when the nannies aren't around.
Second, part of the feministization of our campuses involves the repression of classically positive male virtues (virtue means manliness, not that virtue is exclusively masculine, of course!). Courage, temperance, fortitude, etc. are cast as overly intellectual and anti-emotional. This leaves courage to be practiced as bravado. Fortitude becomes aggression. Temperance becomes weakness.
Third, for the most part adolescent males have no one to teach them how to be virtuous men. Who do they have in the popular culture to look up to? Rappers, professional wrestlers, ambiguous superheroes, gangsters, rapist/drug addicted/narcissitic athletes?
http://hancaquam.blogspot.com/2009/05/for-sake-of-our-young-men-its-time-to.html
What's so intriguing? The report shows that college men are pressured to be stereotypically "masculine" without doing the hard work of getting a good college education. In other words, they are expected to be Rambo and Steven Hawkings by nature not effort. In fact, any effort they might put into becoming Well-educated Men is seen as decidedly "gay" or feminine by themselves and their struggling peers.
How did this happen? The report is fuzzy on this question. My guess is that there is a combination of factors.
First, the feministization of college campuses places men in a position of repressing their masculinity publicly and overemphasizing it privately (dorms, frats, etc.). Men are oppressed into being "feminist" in class by ideologue profs and campus administrators. Then, the more extreme forms of outrageous masculine behavior (binge drinking, fighting, sexual aggressiveness) are indulged when the nannies aren't around.
Second, part of the feministization of our campuses involves the repression of classically positive male virtues (virtue means manliness, not that virtue is exclusively masculine, of course!). Courage, temperance, fortitude, etc. are cast as overly intellectual and anti-emotional. This leaves courage to be practiced as bravado. Fortitude becomes aggression. Temperance becomes weakness.
Third, for the most part adolescent males have no one to teach them how to be virtuous men. Who do they have in the popular culture to look up to? Rappers, professional wrestlers, ambiguous superheroes, gangsters, rapist/drug addicted/narcissitic athletes?
http://hancaquam.blogspot.com/2009/05/for-sake-of-our-young-men-its-time-to.html
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