Sunday, July 27, 2008
You are called to be a saint also - Laurence Gonzaga - Lifeteen - 07/27/2008
You are called to be a saint also - Laurence Gonzaga - Lifeteen - 07/27/2008
Saturday, June 7, 2008
Some upcoming study topics
Some upcoming study topics
Council of Starbucks – Summer Sessions
Laurence Gonzaga
Mondays 7 PM – 8:30 PM
Young Adult, Ages 16-35
27615 BASELINE ST
HIGHLAND
· June 9
o Do we have Free Will?
· June 16
o Does the Catholic Church teach predestination?
· June 23
o Is there salvation outside of the Catholic Church?
· June 30
o Revolution and Counter-Revolution by Plinio Correa De Olveira
Knights of Columbus Bible Study – Summer Sessions
Laurence Gonzaga filling in for Bob Herness, SK
Wednesdays 7 PM – 9 PM
All ages welcome!
1729 E. Base Line St (Cross St. is Del Rosa)
San Bernardino
· July 2
o Atheism Debate
§ Dinesh D’Souza versus Christopher Hitchens
o Some proofs for the existence of God
o “My Testimony: What brought me out of disbelief?”
· July 9
o Our Lady of Guadalupe
o Fr. Thomas Koller
o Joe Burns
· July 16
o The Case for the Creator DVD
§ Lee Stroebel
· July 23
o The Privileged Planet: The Search for Purpose in the Universe
· July 30
o Unlocking the Mystery of Life: The Scientific Case for Intelligent Design
Council of Starbucks – Summer Sessions
Laurence Gonzaga
Mondays 7 PM – 8:30 PM
Young Adult, Ages 16-35
27615 BASELINE ST
HIGHLAND
· June 9
o Do we have Free Will?
· June 16
o Does the Catholic Church teach predestination?
· June 23
o Is there salvation outside of the Catholic Church?
· June 30
o Revolution and Counter-Revolution by Plinio Correa De Olveira
Knights of Columbus Bible Study – Summer Sessions
Laurence Gonzaga filling in for Bob Herness, SK
Wednesdays 7 PM – 9 PM
All ages welcome!
1729 E. Base Line St (Cross St. is Del Rosa)
San Bernardino
· July 2
o Atheism Debate
§ Dinesh D’Souza versus Christopher Hitchens
o Some proofs for the existence of God
o “My Testimony: What brought me out of disbelief?”
· July 9
o Our Lady of Guadalupe
o Fr. Thomas Koller
o Joe Burns
· July 16
o The Case for the Creator DVD
§ Lee Stroebel
· July 23
o The Privileged Planet: The Search for Purpose in the Universe
· July 30
o Unlocking the Mystery of Life: The Scientific Case for Intelligent Design
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Vocations Resources
Vocations Resources
Talks
"Myths and Misconceptions Concerning Vocations"
Fr. Thomas Nelson, O. Praem. (Norbertine)
Fr. Nelson is a priest of St. Michael's Abbey in Silverado, CA, a community of Norbertine Canons. Father is the national director of the Institute on Religious Life and has a licentiate in sacred theology from the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas in Rome.
Download
Free CD
Father Gregory Elder, Ph.D.
Vocations Homiles
Marian Devotion & the Priesthood
MP3 recording (8.2 MB)
Rev. Gregory Dick, O.Praem.
Soul of the Apostolate
MP3 recording (7.8 MB)
Rev. fr. Juan Diego Emerson, O.Praem.
Spiritual Life of the Priest
MP3 recording (6.9 MB)
Rev. Thomas Nelson, O.Praem.
Formation of the Priestly Mind
MP3 recording (7.4 MB)
Rev. Sebastian Walshe, O.Praem.
Consecrated Celibacy & the Priesthood
MP3 recording (7.7 MB)
Very Rev. Hugh Barbour, O.Praem.
The Priest & the Holy Eucharist
MP3 recording (8.5 MB)
Rev. Charbel Grbavac, O.Praem.
Religious Vocation & the Priesthood
MP3 recording (7.4 MB)
Rev. Charles Willingham, O.Praem.
"Reclaiming Our Priestly Character" (MP3)
Recorded on January 14, 2008 at the Arlington Diocese's popular "Theology on Tap" program. This is an audio recording of Rev. David. L. Toups, Associate Director, USCCB, Secretariat of Clergy, Consecrated Life and Vocations.
John Corapi's Amazing Story, by Fr. John Corapi
John Corapi was a football star, in the Army Special Forces, and a millionaire real estate mogul to the stars of Hollywood. Then he became a cocaine addict. Now he is a Catholic priest. His life will inspire you to answer God's call in your own life. An excellent resource for RCIA and inspiring vocations.
Rev. Giacomo Capoverdi, Jr.
Vocation (Part 1) (Part2)
Sr. Dorothy Schwarz
Spiritual Life (Part 1) (Part2)
Vocation (Part 1) (Part2)
Genevieve Kineke
Vocation of Women I (Part 1) (Part 2)
Vocation of Women 2 (Part 1) (Part 2)
Vocation of Women 3 (Part 1) (Part 2)
Vocation of Women 4 (Part 1) (Part 2)
Vocation of Women 5 (Part 1) (Part 2)
Vocation of Women 6 (Part 1) (Part 2)
Friar Giles Mary
Vocation
Fr Bruno Segata - Vocations
Traditional monks of Papa Stronsay
Talks
"Myths and Misconceptions Concerning Vocations"
Fr. Thomas Nelson, O. Praem. (Norbertine)
Fr. Nelson is a priest of St. Michael's Abbey in Silverado, CA, a community of Norbertine Canons. Father is the national director of the Institute on Religious Life and has a licentiate in sacred theology from the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas in Rome.
Download
Free CD
Father Gregory Elder, Ph.D.
Vocations Homiles
Marian Devotion & the Priesthood
MP3 recording (8.2 MB)
Rev. Gregory Dick, O.Praem.
Soul of the Apostolate
MP3 recording (7.8 MB)
Rev. fr. Juan Diego Emerson, O.Praem.
Spiritual Life of the Priest
MP3 recording (6.9 MB)
Rev. Thomas Nelson, O.Praem.
Formation of the Priestly Mind
MP3 recording (7.4 MB)
Rev. Sebastian Walshe, O.Praem.
Consecrated Celibacy & the Priesthood
MP3 recording (7.7 MB)
Very Rev. Hugh Barbour, O.Praem.
The Priest & the Holy Eucharist
MP3 recording (8.5 MB)
Rev. Charbel Grbavac, O.Praem.
Religious Vocation & the Priesthood
MP3 recording (7.4 MB)
Rev. Charles Willingham, O.Praem.
"Reclaiming Our Priestly Character" (MP3)
Recorded on January 14, 2008 at the Arlington Diocese's popular "Theology on Tap" program. This is an audio recording of Rev. David. L. Toups, Associate Director, USCCB, Secretariat of Clergy, Consecrated Life and Vocations.
John Corapi's Amazing Story, by Fr. John Corapi
John Corapi was a football star, in the Army Special Forces, and a millionaire real estate mogul to the stars of Hollywood. Then he became a cocaine addict. Now he is a Catholic priest. His life will inspire you to answer God's call in your own life. An excellent resource for RCIA and inspiring vocations.
Rev. Giacomo Capoverdi, Jr.
Vocation (Part 1) (Part2)
Sr. Dorothy Schwarz
Spiritual Life (Part 1) (Part2)
Vocation (Part 1) (Part2)
Genevieve Kineke
Vocation of Women I (Part 1) (Part 2)
Vocation of Women 2 (Part 1) (Part 2)
Vocation of Women 3 (Part 1) (Part 2)
Vocation of Women 4 (Part 1) (Part 2)
Vocation of Women 5 (Part 1) (Part 2)
Vocation of Women 6 (Part 1) (Part 2)
Friar Giles Mary
Vocation
Fr Bruno Segata - Vocations
Audio and Video Resources
Debates on the Existence of God (Links from Phil Porvaznik Site)
Craig vs. Frank Zindler 1993 debate on Atheism versus Christianity MP3
Craig vs. Paul Draper 1997 debate on the existence of God MP3
Craig vs. Peter Atkins 1998 debate on the existence of God MP3
Craig vs. Antony Flew 1998 debate on Does God Exist? MP3
Craig vs. Keith Parsons on Why I Am / Am Not a Christian MP3
Craig vs. Victor Stenger 2003 debate on the existence of God MP3
Craig vs. Brian Edwards radio debate on the existence of God MP3
Craig vs. Austin Dacey 2005 debate on the existence of God MP3
Alister McGrath "Is God a Delusion?" 2006 MP3
Daniel Dennett "Darwin's Dangerous Idea" MP3
John Lennox vs. Richard Dawkins "The God Delusion" Debate 2007 MP3 (see http://www.fixed-point.org/)
Alister McGrath vs. Daniel Dennett on God and Religion 2006 MP3
Alister McGrath vs. Peter Atkins on God, Darwin, Humanity 2007 MP3
Alister McGrath vs. Richard Dawkins on Theism / Atheism 2007 MP3
Alister McGrath vs. Richard Dawkins the cut segment from "Root of All Evil?" MP3
Alister McGrath vs. Christopher Hitchens on Religion in Modern World 2007 MP3
Alister McGrath vs. Susan Blackmore on Is God a Delusion? 2007 MP3
Dinesh D'Souza vs. Michael Shermer on God, Religion, Morality 2007 MP3
Dinesh D'Souza vs. Christopher Hitchens "What's So Great About Christianity?" 2007 MP3 (see http://www.dineshdsouza.com/)
Dinesh D'Souza vs. Daniel Dennett "Is God (and Religion) a man-made invention?" 2007 MP3
Resurrection of Jesus (Links from Phil Porvaznik Site)
"Did Jesus Really Rise from the Dead?" DVD produced by Ignatius Press
Craig vs. (Robert) Greg Cavin 1995 "Twin Jesus" debate on the Resurrection MP3
Craig vs. Brian Edwards radio debate on the Resurrection MP3
Craig vs. Hector Avalos 2004 debate on the Resurrection MP3
Craig vs. Gerd Ludemann 1997 debate on the Resurrection MP3
Craig vs. John Shelby Spong 2005 debate on the Resurrection MP3
Craig vs. Bart Ehrman 2006 debate on the Resurrection MP3 (see also debate transcript)
Craig vs. Jamal Badawi debate on Islam versus Christianity MP3
Craig vs. Ray Bradley debate on God and Hell MP3
Craig vs. Walter Sinnott-Armstrong debate on Evil and Suffering MP3
Craig vs. Eddie Tabash 1999 debate on Secular Humanism versus Christianity MP3
Craig on his debates and the "Evidence for Christianity" 2002 MP3
Craig vs. Frank Zindler 1993 debate on Atheism versus Christianity MP3
Craig vs. Paul Draper 1997 debate on the existence of God MP3
Craig vs. Peter Atkins 1998 debate on the existence of God MP3
Craig vs. Antony Flew 1998 debate on Does God Exist? MP3
Craig vs. Keith Parsons on Why I Am / Am Not a Christian MP3
Craig vs. Victor Stenger 2003 debate on the existence of God MP3
Craig vs. Brian Edwards radio debate on the existence of God MP3
Craig vs. Austin Dacey 2005 debate on the existence of God MP3
Alister McGrath "Is God a Delusion?" 2006 MP3
Daniel Dennett "Darwin's Dangerous Idea" MP3
John Lennox vs. Richard Dawkins "The God Delusion" Debate 2007 MP3 (see http://www.fixed-point.org/)
Alister McGrath vs. Daniel Dennett on God and Religion 2006 MP3
Alister McGrath vs. Peter Atkins on God, Darwin, Humanity 2007 MP3
Alister McGrath vs. Richard Dawkins on Theism / Atheism 2007 MP3
Alister McGrath vs. Richard Dawkins the cut segment from "Root of All Evil?" MP3
Alister McGrath vs. Christopher Hitchens on Religion in Modern World 2007 MP3
Alister McGrath vs. Susan Blackmore on Is God a Delusion? 2007 MP3
Dinesh D'Souza vs. Michael Shermer on God, Religion, Morality 2007 MP3
Dinesh D'Souza vs. Christopher Hitchens "What's So Great About Christianity?" 2007 MP3 (see http://www.dineshdsouza.com/)
Dinesh D'Souza vs. Daniel Dennett "Is God (and Religion) a man-made invention?" 2007 MP3
Resurrection of Jesus (Links from Phil Porvaznik Site)
"Did Jesus Really Rise from the Dead?" DVD produced by Ignatius Press
Craig vs. (Robert) Greg Cavin 1995 "Twin Jesus" debate on the Resurrection MP3
Craig vs. Brian Edwards radio debate on the Resurrection MP3
Craig vs. Hector Avalos 2004 debate on the Resurrection MP3
Craig vs. Gerd Ludemann 1997 debate on the Resurrection MP3
Craig vs. John Shelby Spong 2005 debate on the Resurrection MP3
Craig vs. Bart Ehrman 2006 debate on the Resurrection MP3 (see also debate transcript)
Craig vs. Jamal Badawi debate on Islam versus Christianity MP3
Craig vs. Ray Bradley debate on God and Hell MP3
Craig vs. Walter Sinnott-Armstrong debate on Evil and Suffering MP3
Craig vs. Eddie Tabash 1999 debate on Secular Humanism versus Christianity MP3
Craig on his debates and the "Evidence for Christianity" 2002 MP3
Monday, May 12, 2008
Spe Salvi (May 15, 2008)
Council of Starbucks - May 15 and 22, 2008 - Spe Salvi (On Christian Hope)
Starbucks, Highland
7:00-8:30PM
Ages 16-35
Please purchase a drink from Starbucks, so we don't get kicked out.
Video introduction
Directions:
From Redlands:
1.
Starting in REDLANDS, CA on CAJON ST go toward E CITRUS AVE
go < 0.1 mi
< 0.1 mi
2.
Continue on ORANGE ST
go 0.5 mi
0.5 mi
3.
Take ramp onto I-10 W toward LOS ANGELES
go 0.7 mi
1.2 mi
4.
Take the HIGHLAND/RUNNING SPRINGS (CA-330) exit onto CA-30 W
go 4.1 mi
5.3 mi
5.
Take the BASE LINE RD exit
go 0.3 mi
5.6 mi
6.
Turn LEFT on BASE LINE
go 0.1 mi
5.7 mi
7.
Arrive at 27615 BASELINE ST, HIGHLAND, on the LEFT
From San Bernardino:
1.
Starting in SAN BERNARDINO, CA on N E ST go toward W 2ND ST
go 0.2 mi
0.2 mi
2.
Turn RIGHT on W 2ND ST
go 0.4 mi
0.6 mi
3.
Turn RIGHT to take ramp onto I-215 N
go 1.6 mi
2.2 mi
4.
Take RIGHT fork onto CA-30 N toward HIGHLAND/MTN RESORTS
go 1.9 mi
4.1 mi
5.
Merge onto CA-30 E
go 5.6 mi
9.7 mi
6.
Take the BASE LINE RD exit
go 0.2 mi
9.9 mi
7.
Turn RIGHT on BASE LINE
go < 0.1 mi
9.9 mi
8.
Arrive at 27615 BASELINE ST, HIGHLAND, on the LEFT
Starbucks, Highland
7:00-8:30PM
Ages 16-35
Please purchase a drink from Starbucks, so we don't get kicked out.
Video introduction
Directions:
From Redlands:
1.
Starting in REDLANDS, CA on CAJON ST go toward E CITRUS AVE
go < 0.1 mi
< 0.1 mi
2.
Continue on ORANGE ST
go 0.5 mi
0.5 mi
3.
Take ramp onto I-10 W toward LOS ANGELES
go 0.7 mi
1.2 mi
4.
Take the HIGHLAND/RUNNING SPRINGS (CA-330) exit onto CA-30 W
go 4.1 mi
5.3 mi
5.
Take the BASE LINE RD exit
go 0.3 mi
5.6 mi
6.
Turn LEFT on BASE LINE
go 0.1 mi
5.7 mi
7.
Arrive at 27615 BASELINE ST, HIGHLAND, on the LEFT
From San Bernardino:
1.
Starting in SAN BERNARDINO, CA on N E ST go toward W 2ND ST
go 0.2 mi
0.2 mi
2.
Turn RIGHT on W 2ND ST
go 0.4 mi
0.6 mi
3.
Turn RIGHT to take ramp onto I-215 N
go 1.6 mi
2.2 mi
4.
Take RIGHT fork onto CA-30 N toward HIGHLAND/MTN RESORTS
go 1.9 mi
4.1 mi
5.
Merge onto CA-30 E
go 5.6 mi
9.7 mi
6.
Take the BASE LINE RD exit
go 0.2 mi
9.9 mi
7.
Turn RIGHT on BASE LINE
go < 0.1 mi
9.9 mi
8.
Arrive at 27615 BASELINE ST, HIGHLAND, on the LEFT
Monday, April 21, 2008
04/26/08 - Do we have a defense against atheist attacks?
04/26/08 - Do we have a defense against atheist attacks?
10:30 AM - 12 PM at the Dove House, St. Adelaide
I. What are apriori and aposteriori arguments?
· Apriori arguments (ex: ontological)- arguments for God which derive their premises independent of experience; one only need to clearly understand that proposition to see that it is true.
· Aposteriority arguments (ex: cosmological and teleological)- arguments for God which derive their premises only from experience of the world.
II. What is the Cosmological argument (St. Thomas Aquinas, Five Ways)?
Aquinas’ Second Way (Causality argument)
1) There exist things that are caused.
§ You happen upon a sand-castle on the beach, and you presume that it was designed.
2) Nothing can be the cause of itself (ex nihilio nihil fit, out of nothing proceeds).
§ The sand castle cannot bring itself into existence.
3) There cannot be an infinite regress of causes.
§ If you trace the line of causality back, there must be a first cause, which itself was not caused.
4) Therefore, there exists an uncaused first cause.
5) The word God means uncaused first cause.
6) Therefore, God exists
Aquinas’ Third Way (Contingency argument)
1) Every being that exists are either contingent or necessary.
§ Contingent means it depends upon something else to explain its being (humans, animals, etc.). Necessary means that the being requires no other being to explain its existence.
2) Not every being can be contingent.
§ Contingent beings need at least one necessary being.
3) Therefore, there exists a being upon which the contingent beings depend.
4) A necessary being on which all contingent beings exist is what we mean by God.
5) Therefore, God exists.
III. What is the Teleological argument (William Paley)?
1) Complexity implies a designer.
2) The universe is highly complex.
3) Therefore, the universe has a Designer.
4) God is a Being who is able to design a universe.
5) Therefore, God does exist.
IV. What is the Ontological argument (St. Anselm)?
Argument 1
1) God is, by definition, the “greatest” (that which nothing greater is possible).
2) The notion of the “greatest” exists in the mind.
3) The “greatest” may exist in reality.
4) If the “greatest” only existed in the mind, and the “greatest” may have existed in reality, then the “greatest” [in reality] might have been greater than the “greatest” [in the mind].
5) The “greatest” may be greater than it is.
6) Therefore, the “greatest” is something that something greater is possible.
7) This is not possible, reduction ad absurdum (reduction to the absurd).
8) Therefore, the “greatest” (God) exists in both the mind and in reality.
Argument 2
1) God is defined as the “greatest” (aliquid, quo nihil majus cogitari posit, that than which nothing greater can be conceived).
2) It is greater to be a necessary being than not.
3) God must be necessary.
4) God necessarily exists.
V. What is C.S. Lewis' argument (Desire argument)?
1) All human desires correspond to a real thing which can satisfy that desire.
§ Thirst is satisfied by drink; hunger is satisfied by food; fatigue is satisfied by sleep/rest; sexual desire is satisfied by marital relations; etc.
2) There is a desire which nothing in this world can satisfy (desire for God).
3) This desire must be satisfied in another world.
4) Therefore, God must exist.
VI. The Wager (Pascal) – This does a cross between two dimensions: (1) the truth of whether God exists, God exists and God does not exist; and (2) how one chooses to lead one’s life, live as if God does exist and live as if God does not exist. This gives us 4 possibilities:
1) God exists and one does not live as if God exists – Hell (+ infinity)
2) God exists and one does live as if God existed – Heaven (- infinity)
3) God does not exist and one does not live as if God exists – neutral
4) God does not exist and one does live as if God existed – neutral
5) Therefore, wager that God exists.
§ Would you not wager $1 for the 50/50 chance of winning a million?
VII. The fool says in his heart “there is no God” (Psalm 14:1).
VIII. How to understand the atheist better so that we may be able to guide them to the truth
· the atheist as a victim
§ They have bought into the secular and relativistic philosophy.
· the atheist as an apologist
§ If you believed as they believe, wouldn’t you promote it too?
· the atheist as an intellectual
§ They don’t want to hear about mysticism and non-materialistic evidence; rational argumentation is the best bet; this is the high-form of atheism.
· the atheist as a revolutionary
§ There is a popular culture of anti-conformity. It is cool to be a jerk; This is the low-form of atheism.
10:30 AM - 12 PM at the Dove House, St. Adelaide
I. What are apriori and aposteriori arguments?
· Apriori arguments (ex: ontological)- arguments for God which derive their premises independent of experience; one only need to clearly understand that proposition to see that it is true.
· Aposteriority arguments (ex: cosmological and teleological)- arguments for God which derive their premises only from experience of the world.
II. What is the Cosmological argument (St. Thomas Aquinas, Five Ways)?
Aquinas’ Second Way (Causality argument)
1) There exist things that are caused.
§ You happen upon a sand-castle on the beach, and you presume that it was designed.
2) Nothing can be the cause of itself (ex nihilio nihil fit, out of nothing proceeds).
§ The sand castle cannot bring itself into existence.
3) There cannot be an infinite regress of causes.
§ If you trace the line of causality back, there must be a first cause, which itself was not caused.
4) Therefore, there exists an uncaused first cause.
5) The word God means uncaused first cause.
6) Therefore, God exists
Aquinas’ Third Way (Contingency argument)
1) Every being that exists are either contingent or necessary.
§ Contingent means it depends upon something else to explain its being (humans, animals, etc.). Necessary means that the being requires no other being to explain its existence.
2) Not every being can be contingent.
§ Contingent beings need at least one necessary being.
3) Therefore, there exists a being upon which the contingent beings depend.
4) A necessary being on which all contingent beings exist is what we mean by God.
5) Therefore, God exists.
III. What is the Teleological argument (William Paley)?
1) Complexity implies a designer.
2) The universe is highly complex.
3) Therefore, the universe has a Designer.
4) God is a Being who is able to design a universe.
5) Therefore, God does exist.
IV. What is the Ontological argument (St. Anselm)?
Argument 1
1) God is, by definition, the “greatest” (that which nothing greater is possible).
2) The notion of the “greatest” exists in the mind.
3) The “greatest” may exist in reality.
4) If the “greatest” only existed in the mind, and the “greatest” may have existed in reality, then the “greatest” [in reality] might have been greater than the “greatest” [in the mind].
5) The “greatest” may be greater than it is.
6) Therefore, the “greatest” is something that something greater is possible.
7) This is not possible, reduction ad absurdum (reduction to the absurd).
8) Therefore, the “greatest” (God) exists in both the mind and in reality.
Argument 2
1) God is defined as the “greatest” (aliquid, quo nihil majus cogitari posit, that than which nothing greater can be conceived).
2) It is greater to be a necessary being than not.
3) God must be necessary.
4) God necessarily exists.
V. What is C.S. Lewis' argument (Desire argument)?
1) All human desires correspond to a real thing which can satisfy that desire.
§ Thirst is satisfied by drink; hunger is satisfied by food; fatigue is satisfied by sleep/rest; sexual desire is satisfied by marital relations; etc.
2) There is a desire which nothing in this world can satisfy (desire for God).
3) This desire must be satisfied in another world.
4) Therefore, God must exist.
VI. The Wager (Pascal) – This does a cross between two dimensions: (1) the truth of whether God exists, God exists and God does not exist; and (2) how one chooses to lead one’s life, live as if God does exist and live as if God does not exist. This gives us 4 possibilities:
1) God exists and one does not live as if God exists – Hell (+ infinity)
2) God exists and one does live as if God existed – Heaven (- infinity)
3) God does not exist and one does not live as if God exists – neutral
4) God does not exist and one does live as if God existed – neutral
5) Therefore, wager that God exists.
§ Would you not wager $1 for the 50/50 chance of winning a million?
VII. The fool says in his heart “there is no God” (Psalm 14:1).
VIII. How to understand the atheist better so that we may be able to guide them to the truth
· the atheist as a victim
§ They have bought into the secular and relativistic philosophy.
· the atheist as an apologist
§ If you believed as they believe, wouldn’t you promote it too?
· the atheist as an intellectual
§ They don’t want to hear about mysticism and non-materialistic evidence; rational argumentation is the best bet; this is the high-form of atheism.
· the atheist as a revolutionary
§ There is a popular culture of anti-conformity. It is cool to be a jerk; This is the low-form of atheism.
Saturday, December 1, 2007
Week 12 - (12/01/07) - The Perpetual Virginity of Mary ; “The Creator” - CCC # 306-324 (cont.); Heaven and Earth - CCC # 325-354
“What Makes Us Catholic?”
Week 12 12/01/07
www.geocities.com/laurence_gonzaga/study.htm
youngadultsfc.blogspot.com
Ø APOLOGETICS: The Perpetual Virginity of Mary
Ø “The Creator” - CCC # 306-324 (cont.); Heaven and Earth - CCC # 325-354
I. Opening Prayer
a. Our Father
b. Jesus Prayer (Fatima Prayer)
c. Come Holy Spirit
o Come Holy Spirit, and fill the hearts of your faithful, and kindle in them the fire of Your Divine Love. Send forth Your Spirit and they shall be created, and You shall renew the face of the earth. Oh God, Who by the light of the Holy Spirit instructed the hearts of the faithful, Grant, that by the same Spirit we may be truly wise and ever rejoice in His consolation. We ask this through Christ Our Lord. Amen.
d. Hail Mary
II. Sunday Gospel (12/02/07): Mt 24:37-44
III. Review of Week 10: “What language was the Gospel of St. Matthew written in?” ; The thieves crucified with Jesus ; The Creator
IV. Apologetics
a. Study from the book: The Catholic Apologetics Bible: Volume 1: The Gospel According to St. Matthew by Robert Sungenis, Ph.D.
o Matthew 1:23
1. Was Jesus born miraculously from the Virgin Mary?
V. Study of the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC): “The Creator” - CCC # 306-324 (cont.); Heaven and Earth - CCC # 325-354
VI. Spiritual Reading: St. Josemaria Escriva (Founder of Opus Dei), taken from The Way #411, p. 137 (Scepter Press)
a. What does it mean to be a hypocrite?
b. What is the difference between the hypocrite and the sinner who begs for God’s mercy?
VII. Closing Prayer
a. Angelus
b. St. Michael Prayer
c. Intercessions
Spiritual Reading: St. Josemaria Escriva (Founder of Opus Dei), taken from The Way #411, p. 137 (Scepter Press)
#411: Many false apostles, in spite of themselves, do good to the masses, to the people, through the very power of the doctrine of Jesus which they preach-even though they don’t practice it.
But this good does not compensate for the enormous and very real harm they do by killing the souls of leaders, of apostles, who turn away in disgust from those who don’t practice what they preach.
That’s why such men and women, if they are not willing to live an upright life, should never push themselves forward as leaders.
Week 12 12/01/07
www.geocities.com/laurence_gonzaga/study.htm
youngadultsfc.blogspot.com
Ø APOLOGETICS: The Perpetual Virginity of Mary
Ø “The Creator” - CCC # 306-324 (cont.); Heaven and Earth - CCC # 325-354
I. Opening Prayer
a. Our Father
b. Jesus Prayer (Fatima Prayer)
c. Come Holy Spirit
o Come Holy Spirit, and fill the hearts of your faithful, and kindle in them the fire of Your Divine Love. Send forth Your Spirit and they shall be created, and You shall renew the face of the earth. Oh God, Who by the light of the Holy Spirit instructed the hearts of the faithful, Grant, that by the same Spirit we may be truly wise and ever rejoice in His consolation. We ask this through Christ Our Lord. Amen.
d. Hail Mary
II. Sunday Gospel (12/02/07): Mt 24:37-44
III. Review of Week 10: “What language was the Gospel of St. Matthew written in?” ; The thieves crucified with Jesus ; The Creator
IV. Apologetics
a. Study from the book: The Catholic Apologetics Bible: Volume 1: The Gospel According to St. Matthew by Robert Sungenis, Ph.D.
o Matthew 1:23
1. Was Jesus born miraculously from the Virgin Mary?
V. Study of the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC): “The Creator” - CCC # 306-324 (cont.); Heaven and Earth - CCC # 325-354
VI. Spiritual Reading: St. Josemaria Escriva (Founder of Opus Dei), taken from The Way #411, p. 137 (Scepter Press)
a. What does it mean to be a hypocrite?
b. What is the difference between the hypocrite and the sinner who begs for God’s mercy?
VII. Closing Prayer
a. Angelus
b. St. Michael Prayer
c. Intercessions
Spiritual Reading: St. Josemaria Escriva (Founder of Opus Dei), taken from The Way #411, p. 137 (Scepter Press)
#411: Many false apostles, in spite of themselves, do good to the masses, to the people, through the very power of the doctrine of Jesus which they preach-even though they don’t practice it.
But this good does not compensate for the enormous and very real harm they do by killing the souls of leaders, of apostles, who turn away in disgust from those who don’t practice what they preach.
That’s why such men and women, if they are not willing to live an upright life, should never push themselves forward as leaders.
Week 11 - (11/24/07) - The Inerrancy of Sacred Scripture, Defending the Holy Spirit ; “The Creator” - CCC # 279-324
“What Makes Us Catholic?”
Week 11 11/24/07
www.geocities.com/laurence_gonzaga/study.htm
youngadultsfc.blogspot.com
Ø APOLOGETICS: The Inerrancy of Sacred Scripture, Defending the Holy Spirit
Ø “The Creator” - CCC # 279-324
I. Opening Prayer
a. Thanksgiving to the Father and Son
b. Come Holy Spirit
o Come Holy Spirit, and fill the hearts of your faithful, and kindle in them the fire of Your Divine Love. Send forth Your Spirit and they shall be created, and You shall renew the face of the earth. Oh God, Who by the light of the Holy Spirit instructed the hearts of the faithful, Grant, that by the same Spirit we may be truly wise and ever rejoice in His consolation. We ask this through Christ Our Lord. Amen.
c. Hail Holy Queen
II. Sunday Gospel (11/25/07): Luke 23:35-43
a. Contrast the two criminals, what do you think they represent?
b. Was there ever a time where you were more like the one rather than the other?
III. Review of Week 10: “What is Apologetics?”
IV. Apologetics
a. Study from the book: The Catholic Apologetics Bible: Volume 1: The Gospel According to St. Matthew by Robert Sungenis, Ph.D.
o Matthew 1:1
1. The inspiration of Sacred Scripture
V. Study of the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC): The Creator - CCC # 279-324
VI. Video: Brief introduction to the Latin Mass (17 minutes)
VII. Spiritual Reading: On Truth versus Taste, Taken from Six Great Ideas by Mortimer J. Adler (p. 58)
VIII. Closing Prayer
a. Angelus
b. Intercessions
Spiritual Reading: On Truth versus Taste, Taken from Six Great Ideas by Mortimer J. Adler (p. 58)
The sphere of truth, in short, is the sphere of those matters about which we think disagreement is profitable precisely because we think these are matters about which it is possible to resolve differences of opinion and to reach agreement instead. There are matters of a quite different sort concerning which we think the very opposite. These are matters of taste rather than of truth.
We are all acquainted with the commonplace maxim De gus-tibus non disputandum est. About matters Of taste, there is no point in arguing. Disputes are fruitless. Our differences of opinion look irreconcilable. Arguing about such matters will not bring us into agreement. On the contrary, we should wisely live with and gladly tolerate differences of opinion that express divergent tastes.
About matters of truth, the opposite maxim should rule: De veritate disputandum est. About matters of truth, dispute is fruitful. Wherever the truth of our judgments, opinions, or beliefs is a proper concern, we should be prepared to argue with those who disagree with us, with the firm hope that our disagreement can be resolved. Wisdom does not counsel us here to desist from the effort to reach agreement. Disagreement about matters of truth is not, in the final reckoning, to be tolerated.
Week 11 11/24/07
www.geocities.com/laurence_gonzaga/study.htm
youngadultsfc.blogspot.com
Ø APOLOGETICS: The Inerrancy of Sacred Scripture, Defending the Holy Spirit
Ø “The Creator” - CCC # 279-324
I. Opening Prayer
a. Thanksgiving to the Father and Son
b. Come Holy Spirit
o Come Holy Spirit, and fill the hearts of your faithful, and kindle in them the fire of Your Divine Love. Send forth Your Spirit and they shall be created, and You shall renew the face of the earth. Oh God, Who by the light of the Holy Spirit instructed the hearts of the faithful, Grant, that by the same Spirit we may be truly wise and ever rejoice in His consolation. We ask this through Christ Our Lord. Amen.
c. Hail Holy Queen
II. Sunday Gospel (11/25/07): Luke 23:35-43
a. Contrast the two criminals, what do you think they represent?
b. Was there ever a time where you were more like the one rather than the other?
III. Review of Week 10: “What is Apologetics?”
IV. Apologetics
a. Study from the book: The Catholic Apologetics Bible: Volume 1: The Gospel According to St. Matthew by Robert Sungenis, Ph.D.
o Matthew 1:1
1. The inspiration of Sacred Scripture
V. Study of the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC): The Creator - CCC # 279-324
VI. Video: Brief introduction to the Latin Mass (17 minutes)
VII. Spiritual Reading: On Truth versus Taste, Taken from Six Great Ideas by Mortimer J. Adler (p. 58)
VIII. Closing Prayer
a. Angelus
b. Intercessions
Spiritual Reading: On Truth versus Taste, Taken from Six Great Ideas by Mortimer J. Adler (p. 58)
The sphere of truth, in short, is the sphere of those matters about which we think disagreement is profitable precisely because we think these are matters about which it is possible to resolve differences of opinion and to reach agreement instead. There are matters of a quite different sort concerning which we think the very opposite. These are matters of taste rather than of truth.
We are all acquainted with the commonplace maxim De gus-tibus non disputandum est. About matters Of taste, there is no point in arguing. Disputes are fruitless. Our differences of opinion look irreconcilable. Arguing about such matters will not bring us into agreement. On the contrary, we should wisely live with and gladly tolerate differences of opinion that express divergent tastes.
About matters of truth, the opposite maxim should rule: De veritate disputandum est. About matters of truth, dispute is fruitful. Wherever the truth of our judgments, opinions, or beliefs is a proper concern, we should be prepared to argue with those who disagree with us, with the firm hope that our disagreement can be resolved. Wisdom does not counsel us here to desist from the effort to reach agreement. Disagreement about matters of truth is not, in the final reckoning, to be tolerated.
Friday, November 16, 2007
Week 10 - (11/17/07) - APOLOGETICS: What is Apologetics? Why is it useful? ; “The Creator” - CCC # 279-324
“What Makes Us Catholic?”
Week 10 11/17/07
www.geocities.com/laurence_gonzaga/study.htm
youngadultsfc.blogspot.com
Ø APOLOGETICS: What is Apologetics? Why is it useful?
Ø “The Creator” - CCC # 279-324
I. Opening Prayer
a. St. Thomas Aquinas’ Prayer for Students
b. Veni Sancte Spiritus (Come Holy Spirit)
II. Apologetics
a. What is apologetics?
o 1 Peter 3:14-16
o Matthew 5:11
o 1 Corinthians 9:15-17
b. Why is it useful?
c. Why are we called to defend the faith?
(APOSTOLICAM ACTUOSITATEM, DECREE ON THE APOSTOLATE OF THE LAITY, Vatican Council II, para. 6)
There are innumerable opportunities open to the laity for the exercise of their apostolate of evangelization and sanctification. The very testimony of their Christian life and good works done in a supernatural spirit have the power to draw men to belief and to God; for the Lord says, "Even so let your light shine before men in order that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven" (Matt. 5:16).
However, an apostolate of this kind does not consist only in the witness of one's way of life; a true apostle looks for opportunities to announce Christ by words addressed either to non-believers with a view to leading them to faith, or to the faithful with a view to instructing, strengthening, and encouraging them to a more fervent life. "For the charity of Christ impels us" (2 Cor. 5:14). The words of the Apostle should echo in all hearts, "Woe to me if I do not preach the Gospel" (1 Cor. 9:16).(1)
Since, in our own times, new problems are arising and very serious errors are circulating which tend to undermine the foundations of religion, the moral order, and human society itself, this sacred synod earnestly exhorts laymen-each according to his own gifts of intelligence and learning-to be more diligent in doing what they can to explain, defend, and properly apply Christian principles to the problems of our era in accordance with the mind of the Church.
d. Fides et ratio by Pope John Paul II
Faith and reason are like two wings on which the human spirit rises to the contemplation of truth; and God has placed in the human heart a desire to know the truth—in a word, to know himself—so that, by knowing and loving God, men and women may also come to the fullness of truth about themselves (cf. Ex 33:18; Ps 27:8-9; 63:2-3; Jn 14:8; 1 Jn 3:2).
e. Study from the book: The Catholic Apologetics Bible: Volume 1: The Gospel According to St. Matthew by Robert Sungenis, Ph.D.
o Matthew 1:1
1. Are the first two chapters of Matthew’s Gospel historically accurate?
2. Can they be trusted to give us accurate information?
3. The inspiration of Sacred Scripture
III. Review of Week 9: The Father - CCC # 232-267 ; The Almighty - CCC # 268-278
IV. Study of the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC): The Creator - CCC # 279-324
V. Spiritual Reading: Introduction to the Devout Life by St. Francis De Sales: CHAPTER V. The First Step must be Purifying the Soul.
VI. Closing Prayer
a. Angelus
b. Another Prayer to Saint Michael
O GLORIOUS Prince of the heavenly host, Saint Michael the Archangel, defend us in the battle and fearful warfare that we are waging against the principalities and powers, against the rulers of this world of darkness, against the evil spirits. Come thou to the assistance of men, whom Almighty God created immortal, making them in His own image and likeness and redeeming them at a great price from the tyranny of Satan. Fight this day the battle of the Lord with thy legions of holy Angels, even as of old thou didst fight against Lucifer, the leader of the proud spirits and all his rebel angels, who were powerless to stand against thee, neither was their place found any more in heaven. And that great dragon was cast forth, the ancient serpent, who is called the devil and satan, who seduces the whole world; and he was cast forth upon Earth, and his angels were sent with him.
But behold! the ancient enemy of mankind and a murderer from the beginning has been fiercely aroused. Changing himself into an angel of light, he goes about with the whole multitude of the wicked spirits to invade the earth and blot out the Name of God and of His Christ, to plunder, to slay, and to consign to eternal damnation the souls that have been destined for a crown of everlasting life. This wicked serpent, like an unclean torrent, pours into men of depraved minds and corrupt hearts the poison of his malice, the spirit of lying, impiety and blasphemy, and the deadly breath of impurity and every form of vice and iniquity.
Be favorable to Thy Church, the Bride of the Lamb without spot, whose enemies have filled to overflowing with gall and inebriated with wormwood. They have laid profane hands upon Her most sacred treasures. Where the See of the most blessed Peter and the Chair of Truth has been constituted as a light to the nations, there they have placed a throne of their abomination and impiety; so that with the Pastor struck, they may prevail to disperse the flock.
Therefore, most invincible Leader, be with the people of God against this spiritual wickedness and bring about victory. Thou art venerated by Holy Church as Her guard and patron; Thou art glorified as our defender against the impious powers of earth and of hell. Unto thee the Lord hath handed over the souls of the redeemed to be placed in happiness above. Entreat the God of peace, to obliterate satan beneath our feet, lest he prevail further to hold men captive, and to injure the Church. Offer our prayers in the sight of the Most High, so that the mercy of the Lord may swiftly overtake us, and apprehend the dragon, the ancient serpent, who is the devil and satan, and send him bound into the abyss, so that he may seduce the nations no more. Henceforth having been confided to thy escort and protection, we sacred ministers by our authority [if recited by a layman, or cleric who has not yet taken up the order of exorcist, say instead, "by the authority of Holy Mother Church ], do undertake to repel the infestations of diabolical deceit in the Name of Jesus Christ, Our God and Lord.
V. Behold the Cross of the Lord, depart from us, our adversaries.
R. The Lion of the tribe of Juda, root of David, has conquered.
V. Let Thy mercy be upon us Lord.
R. As much as we hope in Thee.
V. O Lord, hear my prayer.
R. And let my cry come unto Thee.
Let us prayO God, and Father of Our Lord Jesus Christ, we invoke Thy Holy Name, and we humbly implore Thy clemency so that, through the intercession of Mary, the Immaculate ever-Virgin Mother of God, of blessed Michael the Archangel, of blessed Joseph, the Spouse of the same blessed Virgin, of the blessed Apostles Peter and Paul, and of all the Saints, Thou may deign to offer us aid against satan, and all the other unclean spirits, who wander through the world to injure the human race and to destroy souls. We ask this through Christ Our Lord. Amen.
Introduction to the Devout Life by St. Francis De Sales: CHAPTER V. The First Step must be Purifying the Soul.
“THE flowers appear on the earth,” 1515 Cant. ii. 12. says the Heavenly Bridegroom, and the time for pruning and cutting is come. And what, my child, are our hearts’ flowers save our good desires? Now, so soon as these begin to appear, we need the pruning-hook to cut off all dead and superfluous works from our conscience. When the daughter of a strange land was about to espouse an Israelite, the law commanded her to put off the garment of her captivity, to pare her nails, and to shave her head; 1616 Deut. xxi. 12. even so the soul which aims at the dignity of becoming the spouse of Christ, must put off the old man, and put on the new man, forsaking sin: moreover, 16 it must pare and shave away every impediment which can hinder the Love of God. The very first step towards spiritual health is to be purged from our sinful humours. S. Paul received perfect purification instantaneously, and the like grace was conferred on S. Magdalene, S. Catherine of Genoa, S. Pelagia, and some others, but this kind of purgation is as miraculous and extraordinary in grace as the resurrection of the dead in nature, nor dare we venture to aspire to it. The ordinary purification, whether of body or soul, is only accomplished by slow degrees, step by step, gradually and painfully.
The angels on Jacob’s ladder had wings, yet nevertheless they did not fly, but went in due order up and down the steps of the ladder. The soul which rises from out of sin to a devout life has been compared to the dawn, which does not banish darkness suddenly, but by degrees. That cure which is gradually effected is always the surest; and spiritual maladies, like those of the body, are wont to come on horseback and express, while they depart slowly and on foot. So that we must needs be brave and patient, my daughter, in this undertaking. It is a woeful thing to see souls beginning to chafe and grow disheartened because they find themselves still subject to imperfection after having made some attempt at leading a devout life, and well-nigh 17 yielding to the temptation to give up in despair and fall back; but, on the other hand, there is an extreme danger surrounding those souls who, through the opposite temptation, are disposed to imagine themselves purified from all imperfection at the very outset of their purgation; who count themselves as full-grown almost before they are born, and seek to fly before they have wings. Be sure, daughter, that these are in great danger of a relapse through having left their physician too soon. “It is but lost labour to rise up early and late take rest,” unless the Lord prosper all we do.
The work of the soul’s purification neither may nor can end save with life itself;—do not then let us be disheartened by our imperfections,—our very perfection lies in diligently contending against them, and it is impossible so to contend without seeing them, or to overcome without meeting them face toe face. Our victory does not consist in being insensible to them, but in not consenting to them. Now to be afflicted by our imperfections is certainly not to consent thereto, and for the furtherance of humility it is needful that we sometimes find ourselves worsted in this spiritual battle, wherein, however, we shall never be conquered until we lose either life or courage. Moreover, imperfections and venial sins cannot destroy our spiritual life, which is 18 only to be lost through mortal sin; consequently we have only need to watch well that they do not imperil our courage. David continually asks the Lord to strengthen his heart against cowardice and discouragement; and it is our privilege in this war that we are certain to vanquish so long as we are willing to fight.
Week 10 11/17/07
www.geocities.com/laurence_gonzaga/study.htm
youngadultsfc.blogspot.com
Ø APOLOGETICS: What is Apologetics? Why is it useful?
Ø “The Creator” - CCC # 279-324
I. Opening Prayer
a. St. Thomas Aquinas’ Prayer for Students
b. Veni Sancte Spiritus (Come Holy Spirit)
II. Apologetics
a. What is apologetics?
o 1 Peter 3:14-16
o Matthew 5:11
o 1 Corinthians 9:15-17
b. Why is it useful?
c. Why are we called to defend the faith?
(APOSTOLICAM ACTUOSITATEM, DECREE ON THE APOSTOLATE OF THE LAITY, Vatican Council II, para. 6)
There are innumerable opportunities open to the laity for the exercise of their apostolate of evangelization and sanctification. The very testimony of their Christian life and good works done in a supernatural spirit have the power to draw men to belief and to God; for the Lord says, "Even so let your light shine before men in order that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven" (Matt. 5:16).
However, an apostolate of this kind does not consist only in the witness of one's way of life; a true apostle looks for opportunities to announce Christ by words addressed either to non-believers with a view to leading them to faith, or to the faithful with a view to instructing, strengthening, and encouraging them to a more fervent life. "For the charity of Christ impels us" (2 Cor. 5:14). The words of the Apostle should echo in all hearts, "Woe to me if I do not preach the Gospel" (1 Cor. 9:16).(1)
Since, in our own times, new problems are arising and very serious errors are circulating which tend to undermine the foundations of religion, the moral order, and human society itself, this sacred synod earnestly exhorts laymen-each according to his own gifts of intelligence and learning-to be more diligent in doing what they can to explain, defend, and properly apply Christian principles to the problems of our era in accordance with the mind of the Church.
d. Fides et ratio by Pope John Paul II
Faith and reason are like two wings on which the human spirit rises to the contemplation of truth; and God has placed in the human heart a desire to know the truth—in a word, to know himself—so that, by knowing and loving God, men and women may also come to the fullness of truth about themselves (cf. Ex 33:18; Ps 27:8-9; 63:2-3; Jn 14:8; 1 Jn 3:2).
e. Study from the book: The Catholic Apologetics Bible: Volume 1: The Gospel According to St. Matthew by Robert Sungenis, Ph.D.
o Matthew 1:1
1. Are the first two chapters of Matthew’s Gospel historically accurate?
2. Can they be trusted to give us accurate information?
3. The inspiration of Sacred Scripture
III. Review of Week 9: The Father - CCC # 232-267 ; The Almighty - CCC # 268-278
IV. Study of the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC): The Creator - CCC # 279-324
V. Spiritual Reading: Introduction to the Devout Life by St. Francis De Sales: CHAPTER V. The First Step must be Purifying the Soul.
VI. Closing Prayer
a. Angelus
b. Another Prayer to Saint Michael
O GLORIOUS Prince of the heavenly host, Saint Michael the Archangel, defend us in the battle and fearful warfare that we are waging against the principalities and powers, against the rulers of this world of darkness, against the evil spirits. Come thou to the assistance of men, whom Almighty God created immortal, making them in His own image and likeness and redeeming them at a great price from the tyranny of Satan. Fight this day the battle of the Lord with thy legions of holy Angels, even as of old thou didst fight against Lucifer, the leader of the proud spirits and all his rebel angels, who were powerless to stand against thee, neither was their place found any more in heaven. And that great dragon was cast forth, the ancient serpent, who is called the devil and satan, who seduces the whole world; and he was cast forth upon Earth, and his angels were sent with him.
But behold! the ancient enemy of mankind and a murderer from the beginning has been fiercely aroused. Changing himself into an angel of light, he goes about with the whole multitude of the wicked spirits to invade the earth and blot out the Name of God and of His Christ, to plunder, to slay, and to consign to eternal damnation the souls that have been destined for a crown of everlasting life. This wicked serpent, like an unclean torrent, pours into men of depraved minds and corrupt hearts the poison of his malice, the spirit of lying, impiety and blasphemy, and the deadly breath of impurity and every form of vice and iniquity.
Be favorable to Thy Church, the Bride of the Lamb without spot, whose enemies have filled to overflowing with gall and inebriated with wormwood. They have laid profane hands upon Her most sacred treasures. Where the See of the most blessed Peter and the Chair of Truth has been constituted as a light to the nations, there they have placed a throne of their abomination and impiety; so that with the Pastor struck, they may prevail to disperse the flock.
Therefore, most invincible Leader, be with the people of God against this spiritual wickedness and bring about victory. Thou art venerated by Holy Church as Her guard and patron; Thou art glorified as our defender against the impious powers of earth and of hell. Unto thee the Lord hath handed over the souls of the redeemed to be placed in happiness above. Entreat the God of peace, to obliterate satan beneath our feet, lest he prevail further to hold men captive, and to injure the Church. Offer our prayers in the sight of the Most High, so that the mercy of the Lord may swiftly overtake us, and apprehend the dragon, the ancient serpent, who is the devil and satan, and send him bound into the abyss, so that he may seduce the nations no more. Henceforth having been confided to thy escort and protection, we sacred ministers by our authority [if recited by a layman, or cleric who has not yet taken up the order of exorcist, say instead, "by the authority of Holy Mother Church ], do undertake to repel the infestations of diabolical deceit in the Name of Jesus Christ, Our God and Lord.
V. Behold the Cross of the Lord, depart from us, our adversaries.
R. The Lion of the tribe of Juda, root of David, has conquered.
V. Let Thy mercy be upon us Lord.
R. As much as we hope in Thee.
V. O Lord, hear my prayer.
R. And let my cry come unto Thee.
Let us prayO God, and Father of Our Lord Jesus Christ, we invoke Thy Holy Name, and we humbly implore Thy clemency so that, through the intercession of Mary, the Immaculate ever-Virgin Mother of God, of blessed Michael the Archangel, of blessed Joseph, the Spouse of the same blessed Virgin, of the blessed Apostles Peter and Paul, and of all the Saints, Thou may deign to offer us aid against satan, and all the other unclean spirits, who wander through the world to injure the human race and to destroy souls. We ask this through Christ Our Lord. Amen.
Introduction to the Devout Life by St. Francis De Sales: CHAPTER V. The First Step must be Purifying the Soul.
“THE flowers appear on the earth,” 1515 Cant. ii. 12. says the Heavenly Bridegroom, and the time for pruning and cutting is come. And what, my child, are our hearts’ flowers save our good desires? Now, so soon as these begin to appear, we need the pruning-hook to cut off all dead and superfluous works from our conscience. When the daughter of a strange land was about to espouse an Israelite, the law commanded her to put off the garment of her captivity, to pare her nails, and to shave her head; 1616 Deut. xxi. 12. even so the soul which aims at the dignity of becoming the spouse of Christ, must put off the old man, and put on the new man, forsaking sin: moreover, 16 it must pare and shave away every impediment which can hinder the Love of God. The very first step towards spiritual health is to be purged from our sinful humours. S. Paul received perfect purification instantaneously, and the like grace was conferred on S. Magdalene, S. Catherine of Genoa, S. Pelagia, and some others, but this kind of purgation is as miraculous and extraordinary in grace as the resurrection of the dead in nature, nor dare we venture to aspire to it. The ordinary purification, whether of body or soul, is only accomplished by slow degrees, step by step, gradually and painfully.
The angels on Jacob’s ladder had wings, yet nevertheless they did not fly, but went in due order up and down the steps of the ladder. The soul which rises from out of sin to a devout life has been compared to the dawn, which does not banish darkness suddenly, but by degrees. That cure which is gradually effected is always the surest; and spiritual maladies, like those of the body, are wont to come on horseback and express, while they depart slowly and on foot. So that we must needs be brave and patient, my daughter, in this undertaking. It is a woeful thing to see souls beginning to chafe and grow disheartened because they find themselves still subject to imperfection after having made some attempt at leading a devout life, and well-nigh 17 yielding to the temptation to give up in despair and fall back; but, on the other hand, there is an extreme danger surrounding those souls who, through the opposite temptation, are disposed to imagine themselves purified from all imperfection at the very outset of their purgation; who count themselves as full-grown almost before they are born, and seek to fly before they have wings. Be sure, daughter, that these are in great danger of a relapse through having left their physician too soon. “It is but lost labour to rise up early and late take rest,” unless the Lord prosper all we do.
The work of the soul’s purification neither may nor can end save with life itself;—do not then let us be disheartened by our imperfections,—our very perfection lies in diligently contending against them, and it is impossible so to contend without seeing them, or to overcome without meeting them face toe face. Our victory does not consist in being insensible to them, but in not consenting to them. Now to be afflicted by our imperfections is certainly not to consent thereto, and for the furtherance of humility it is needful that we sometimes find ourselves worsted in this spiritual battle, wherein, however, we shall never be conquered until we lose either life or courage. Moreover, imperfections and venial sins cannot destroy our spiritual life, which is 18 only to be lost through mortal sin; consequently we have only need to watch well that they do not imperil our courage. David continually asks the Lord to strengthen his heart against cowardice and discouragement; and it is our privilege in this war that we are certain to vanquish so long as we are willing to fight.
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