Won't Back Down

"For decades, the Bishops have led the fight against such government incursions on conscience, particularly in the area of health care. Far from making us waver in this longstanding commitment, the unprecedented magnitude of this latest threat has only strengthened our resolve to maintain that consistent view."
From the USCCB's March 14, 2012 Statement on Religious Freedom and HHS Mandate

I couldn't resist. This song keeps playing in my head. The music provides a nice background for reading the USCCB's statement. Enjoy.

Tebow and the network of Carthusian Monasteries

"It is simply unimaginable that any prominent Jewish, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist or Sikh quarterback, should such a fantasy of anthropology exist, would be subjected to the vileness that is publicly dumped on Tim Tebow."

Friends, I am definitely not a Florida fan, but I just read a very interesting article by George Weigel in the Southern Nebraska Register (thanks Tala) called "Tim Tebow and Christophobia" that I wanted to share with you. Don't worry, you don't have to be a cornhusker or a bugeater to read the article; National Catholic Register can help you out... read the article here.

Now, I think I only have one objection to Mr. Weigel. Who said the Southeastern Conference doesn't resemble a network of Carthusian monasteries? I mean, George, have you ever been to an SEC game? Haha.

In all seriousness, this is a great article. I especially appreciate how Weigel shows the commonalities and common fate of Tebow (and evangelical Christians) and devout Catholics.

Let me know what you think.

Liberty

My copy of "Evangelization in the Modern World" helped me to kill a spider in my car today, which is pretty bold for me and bugs, so the Lord only knows what sort of boldness it will inspire in my mission! When the Pope says things like this, how can I deny my call?

It would certainly be an error to impose something on the consciences of our brethren. But to propose Jesus Christ, with complete clarity and with a total respect for the free options which it presents--"without coercion, or dishonorable or unworthy pressure"--far from being an attack on religious liberty is fully to respect that liberty, which is offered the choice of a way that even non-believeers consider noble and uplifting. Is it then a crime against others' freedom to proclaim with joy a Good News which one has come to know through the Lord's mercy? And why should only falsehood and error, debasement and pornography have the right to be put before people and often unfortunately imposed on them by the destructive propaganda of the mass media, by the tolerance of legislation, the timidity of the good and the impudence of the wicked? The respectful presentation of Christ and His kingdom is more than the evangelizer's right; it is his duty.