|
Return to MyCatholicSource.com | Sign Up For FREE Newsletter |
Copyright © 2016, B.F.S. All rights reserved. |
+ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + +
MyCatholicSource.com Newsletter - October, 2016
+ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + +
IN THIS ISSUE:
* Greetings
* MCS News & Notes
* The Month of October: Dedicated to the Holy Rosary
* Reflection: The Generosity of the Angels
* Setting the Record Straight About Luther (Part 2)
* Liturgical Feasts in October
* 'Catholic Trivia'
* Defending the Faith: "Apologetics Brief" - Do You Think Religious Truths Can Change Over Time?
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Dear Friend,
Greetings! We hope Fall has gotten off to a good start for you and that it will continue to be a happy & holy season.
This issue marks the eighth anniversary of the 'official unveiling' of MyCatholicSource.com in late October 2008 (the site was in development since 2001). Thank you for your support over the last eight years. We have enjoyed the opportunity to bring 'safe Catholic content' to what can all too often be an anti-Catholic Internet. We've enjoyed chatting with visitors, answering questions, and providing a wealth of resources & information to Catholics. The past years have also brought significant challenges (especially concerning shortages of time & funds with our very limited staff, health issues, and the poor economy), yet somehow we have managed to keep the site up, by the grace of God.
We hope you will join us in celebrating our eighth anniversary by joining us for Rosary Week. Participation is easy, free, and takes only a little time - yet the rewards you receive may be great! Since we plan to have a Traditional Latin Mass said for all Rosary Week participants, you'll also get to share in the benefits of the Holy Mass in addition to the rewards already to be had for praying the holy rosary. We invite everyone to join us even if they can say just one rosary during that week. We believe prayer is very needed - and very powerful. As Archbishop Fulton Sheen said regarding the holy rosary, "The power of the rosary is beyond description." Please also invite your friends & fellow parishioners to join. If you have already signed up, thanks for your participation! If not, please sign up today at www.MyCatholicSource.com/RosaryWeek
Lastly, please know that we value you as a subscriber and thank you very much for your kind support of our newsletter & for your prayers. If you have any comments, questions, suggestions, etc. please use our special subscriber feedback form at http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/fdb/subscriber_feedback.htm . We would love to hear from you.
May the glory of the Lord always shine upon you and may His light always guide your steps,
Your Friends at MyCatholicSource.com
+ + +
"I beheld, therefore, in the vision of the night, and lo, one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven, and he came even to the ancient of days: and they presented him before him. And he gave him power, and glory, and a kingdom: and all peoples, tribes, and tongues shall serve him: his power is an everlasting power that shall not be taken away: and his kingdom that shall not be destroyed." (Dan. 7:13-14)
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
MCS News & Notes
* Last chance to sign up for our Eighth Annual Rosary Week (10/24/16 - 10/30/16): Don't miss out! Please sign up today for this FREE event at www.MyCatholicSource.com/RosaryWeek . Don't pray the rosary? Why not start now? Already pray the rosary? Why not join us for a few extra rosaries? We're confident that you'll be glad you participated in this powerful, yet easy & 'hassle-free' Catholic event. Why not also invite your friends to join? The rosary is very powerful, the intentions are worthy, the participants are dear... In fact, the only thing we know of that could possibly make Rosary Week even better would be for you to join us! [Note: If you'd like help praying the rosary, please visit http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/pc/rosary/how_to_pray_the_rosary.htm .] Sign up today at www.MyCatholicSource.com/RosaryWeek . For more information, please visit www.MyCatholicSource.com/RosaryWeekInfo
* Reminder: There will be an interruption in many of our services in early October due to vacations. Services affected may include: live chat, post & ad processing, subscription processing, blog updates, lending library, and various e-mail responses. Applicable news updates will also be affected. Although you may notice delays in the above services, access to the MyCatholicSource.com website itself should NOT be affected. For details, please visit http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/cg/notices.htm
* IMPORTANT: Apple may pull our iOS apps from the App Store starting in October 2016. Please see 'MyCatholicSource.com App News' below for additional information.
* Feast of St. Francis (10/4): Why not celebrate the feast of St. Francis of Assisi by reviewing biographical information on this great saint, reading some of his inspiring writings, or praying some of his beautiful prayers? You can find this and more at the St. Francis Section at http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/saint_francis_page.htm . And while you're there, why not add your pet's name to the list of special pets? This is a must-see section for animal lovers.
* October 28 marks the eighth anniversary of the official unveiling of MyCatholicSource.com. We send our thanks to all visitors for their support over these past eight years. We hope, by God's grace, to be able to continue to remain online for years to come. Prayer of Thanksgiving: "With all our heart and voice, we acknowledge, we praise, and we bless Thee, God the Father unbegotten, Thee, the only-begotten Son, Thee, the Holy Ghost the Paraclete, O holy and undivided Trinity." (Raccolta)
* Reminder: October 30 is the traditional feast of Christ the King. As you may know, the motto of our site, "Christ the King", took root from the encyclical of Pope Pius XI entitled "Quas Primas". This encyclical makes great reading for the month of October. To view Quas Primas, please visit http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/pd/quas_primas.htm . [Note: For information on the timing of this feast (October vs. November), please see Guest Article: 'Should the Feast of Christ the King Be Celebrated in October or November?' at http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/cmno/up/RC-Feast_of_Christ_the_King.htm ]
* For centuries, numerous popes, saints, and others have strongly encouraged all to pray the rosary. In fact, the Blessed Virgin herself has urged us to pray the holy rosary. We would also like to encourage all subscribers to pray the rosary daily - and October is a great month to start. Please see http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/pc/rosary/daily_rosary.htm for reasons to pray the rosary daily. "I beg of you to beware of thinking of the rosary as something of little importance - as do ignorant people and even several great but proud scholars. Far from being insignificant, the rosary is a priceless treasure which is inspired by God." (St. Louis de Montfort) For additional information on or assistance with the holy rosary, please visit http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/tp/topic_page-holy_rosary.htm
* Special prayers for the U.S.A. on 10/30/16: Please join us in prayer for America on 10/30/16, the traditional feast of Christ the King & a few days before the U.S. election. Even if you don't live in the United States, we encourage you to pray for America as the ramifications of our elections may reverberate throughout the world. There is no need to sign up. Simply say any appropriate prayer(s) of your choice+ on this day and unite them with all others who are praying for the U.S.A. If possible, consider staying for an extra moment after Mass to offer silent prayers in front of the Tabernacle. We hope you will join us. Please mark your calendar for Sunday 10/30/16.
+ Note: Appropriate prayers include the Lord's Prayer, the Hail Mary, the holy rosary, etc. For prayers specifically for the U.S., consider the links at the top of this page: http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/tp/topic_page-prayers_for_the_United_States.htm . We have also found the following couple of prayers to be popular online...
Prayer to the Blessed Virgin Mary: "O Most Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of Mercy, at this most critical time, we entrust the United States of America to your loving care. Most Holy Mother, we beg you to reclaim this land for the glory of your Son. Overwhelmed with the burden of the sins of our nation, we cry to you from the depths of our hearts and seek refuge in your motherly protection. Look down with mercy upon us and touch the hearts of our people. Open our minds to the great worth of human life and to the responsibilities that accompany human freedom. Free us from the falsehoods that lead to the evil of abortion and threaten the sanctity of family life. Grant our country the wisdom to proclaim that God's law is the foundation on which this nation was founded, and that He alone is the True Source of our cherished rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. O Merciful Mother, give us the courage to reject the culture of death and the strength to build a new Culture of Life. Amen."
Election Prayer of Fr. John A. Hardon, S.J.: "Lord Jesus Christ, You told us to give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and to God what belongs to God. Enlighten the minds of (the American people). May we choose a President of the United States, and other government officials, according to Your Divine Will. Give our citizens the courage to choose leaders of our nation who respect the sanctity of unborn human life, the sanctity of marriage, the sanctity of marital relations, the sanctity of the family, and the sanctity of the aging. Grant us the wisdom to give You, what belongs to You, our God. If we do this, as a nation, we are confident You will give us an abundance of Your blessings through our elected leaders. Amen."
* Medical Update / Service Delays: Since October marks one year since we experienced some major medical issues, it seems opportune to provide an update. First, we thank all who have prayed for us and sent their good wishes. Secondly, we'd like to share that, although the healing process has been long and is still not complete, we are doing fairly well. Unfortunately, however, to maintain good health requires we work at a slower/less intense pace than previously. Therefore, please continue to expect some sporadic delays in all correspondence & services (including processing of posts) for the foreseeable future. We apologize for any inconvenience and thank you for any prayers.
* Do something good for the price of a cup of coffee! Help MyCatholicSource.com remain online - donate any amount (from $1+) at http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/cg/donate.htm [note that we do NOT sell donor information to third parties and we do NOT contact you about your donation unless it is necessary (e.g. processing problems)]. Thank you for your much needed support!
* Please invite your friends to visit MyCatholicSource.com. For our "easy to use" invite-a-friend page, please visit http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/fdb/invite_a_friend.htm . Please invite some friends today! Your support helps keep us going!
* We love to hear from you! Please submit comments at http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/fdb/newsletter_feedback.htm
* Have friends or family that might benefit from our newsletter? Please invite them to subscribe at http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/fdb/mail_list.htm . Thank you!
- - - - -
MyCatholicSource.com App News...
* Important Notice Regarding Our iOS Apps: On 9/1/16, Apple informed developers that they would be pulling apps that had not been updated "for a long time". As you may remember, our apps experienced various issues with the introduction of iOS7 ("the most significant update since the original iPhone" according to Apple). At that time, we looked into possible resolutions for the issues, but found that the required fixes were more extensive than we had hoped and we could not justify the expense of re-coding our apps for Apple's new iOS. We therefore we suspended iOS app development indefinitely. With the release of iOS 8, some of the functionality was restored, leaving most of our apps fully functional (although some had cosmetic issues).
Since we suspended iOS app development, we have focused on Android app development and had hoped to roll out some new Android app(s) in the near future and also consider the possibility of returning to iOS development in the future. Unfortunately, however, we were notified by Apple on 9/14/16 that one of our apps would be pulled from the App Store within 30 days. We expect to receive additional notices shortly regarding our other apps. After long consideration, we have decided to refocus on iOS development for the time being in the hope that we will be able to keep (or reinstate) our apps on the App Store. This is no small undertaking as there have been MANY changes in iOS app development since we first released our iOS apps several years ago (including a brand new programming language). Although we have started the learning process, it will be no small feat for us to make even minor compatibility updates to our existing apps.
Regrettably, this likely means that our apps will disappear from the App Store until such time as we are (hopefully) able to release updated versions. We do not know with certainty at this time whether or not we will be able to reinstate any of our app(s) or not. Therefore, you may want to purchase them now while they are still available (see links below). Or, if you have already purchased our apps, be sure to have a backup in case they are no longer available on the App Store.
Also, we want notify visitors that we are NOT planning to update links on our site if/when our apps are pulled as we are trying to devote all the time we can to app development. For current information about our iOS apps and their availability, please visit the App Store (see links below). We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
Given that this is quite an undertaking for us at this time, we would certainly appreciate any prayers. Please know that we absolutely depend on app sales to keep our site up.
* LAST CHANCE to get these iOS apps before they're gone! (See above for details)
-- iStations (Stations of the Cross w/audio) - http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/istations/id457131446?ls=1&mt=8
-- Catholic Bible References (Handy apologetics tool) - http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/catholic-bible-references/id450589859?ls=1&mt=8
-- Saints4U (Convenient reference for patron saints, saint names & feasts) - http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/saints4u/id453922297?ls=1&mt=8
-- Speedy Dial! ('Awesome speed dial for the iPhone') - http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/speedy-dial!/id527029746?ls=1&mt=8
-- Just Checkin' In ('Quick & easy e-mail') - http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/just-checkin-in/id502561339?ls=1&mt=8
For more information on the above apps, please visit www.MyCatholicSource.com/Apps
* Android Apps: The issue above does NOT affect our existing Android apps, as Android has remained a more stable platform in terms of compatibility. For information on currently available Android apps, please visit www.MyCatholicSource.com/Android
* Catholic Bible References app feedback: We wanted to share some complimentary feedback we received last month regarding our Catholic Bible References app. A kind user emailed us with the following comments (Note: Carriage returns removed): "Fantastic!!! This is perfect for me as I am now into my fourth year of being a convert to the faith. This is an awesome tool to assist us all!! I often tangle with the JW's who are Sola scriptura. Thanks for using the internet and cell phone apps for something other than evil, which is what satan wants. Jesus is using you to show His awesomeness!! You are the faithful servants. Praise be to our Lord Jesus!!" We thank the kind user for their comments. To purchase this app, please visit https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bfsnet.catholicbiblerefs or http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00YGHU58K . [Note: The iOS version may still be available at http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/catholic-bible-references/id450589859?ls=1&mt=8 ]. For more details and screenshots, please visit http://www.MyCatholicSource.com/AndroidApps (or http://www.MyCatholicSource.com/Apps ).
* Reviews: If you've purchased any of our apps, we encourage you to please leave a review at your place of purchase. Favorable reviews really help us out! To view selected reviews, please visit http://www.bfsnet.com/bfsapps/selected_reviews.htm
* We send our thanks to all who have purchased & rated our apps. Your support has helped to keep us online!
* If you have any thoughts to share regarding our apps, please contact us using the e-mail address provided in the app or online at http://www.bfsnet.com/bfsapps/bfsapps-feedback.htm
* For more information concerning currently available apps, please visit http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/cg/comrc/apps.htm (shortcut: www.MyCatholicSource.com/Apps ), or visit the applicable app store
Note: Any prices included herein are in U.S. dollars, excluding any applicable tax.
- - - - -
* Please see our Notices page at http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/cg/notices.htm for dates of anticipated service delays through October 2016
* To shop at Amazon.com in support of MyCatholicSource.com, please use this link: http://www.amazon.com/?&tag=mycathcom-20 (shortcut MyCatholicSource.com/ShopAmazon ). You can shop here for books, household & office products, Catholic items, electronics, and much more. Already shop at Amazon.com? It doesn't cost any extra to shop at Amazon using this link, yet we can benefit from your purchases. Thank you for your support!
* Reminder: To help ensure delivery of your newsletter, please put our e-mail address in your 'trusted senders' list - or use other applicable options your e-mail provider may offer to let them know that our e-mail is wanted. Thank you.
* Please visit our Notices page for timely news and other important information regarding MyCatholicSource.com - http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/cg/notices.htm
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
The Month of October: Dedicated to the Holy Rosary
+ + +
"Never will anyone who says his Rosary every day be led astray. This is a statement that I would gladly sign with my blood." (St. Louis de Montfort)
"Next to the holy sacrifice of the Mass, there is, indeed, nothing more terrifying to [the devil], nor does he bear a more implacable hatred to anything than to the devotion of the Rosary." (Muller)
"Of all the prayers, the Rosary is the most beautiful and the richest in graces; of all it is the one most pleasing to Mary, the Virgin Most Holy." (Pope St. Pius X)
"The power of the rosary is beyond description." (Archbishop Fulton Sheen)
+ + +
Related Resources...
* The Holy Rosary (Topic Page) - http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/tp/topic_page-holy_rosary.htm
* Promises of the Rosary - http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/pc/rosary/promises_of_the_rosary.htm
* What is the Rosary and Why Pray it? - http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/pc/rosary/what_the_rosary_is_and_why_pray_it.htm
* Facts About the Rosary - http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/pc/rosary/rosary_facts.htm
* History of the Rosary - http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/pc/rosary/history_of_the_rosary.htm
* How to Pray the Rosary / Mysteries of the Rosary - http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/pc/rosary/how_to_pray_the_rosary.htm
* Tips for Praying the Rosary - http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/dusub/rosary_tips.htm
* The Holy Rosary (Reflections) - http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/qt/holy_rosary_reflections.htm
* The Holy Rosary (Papal Writings) - http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/pd/classic_encyclicals_by_category.htm
* The Daily Rosary - http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/pc/rosary/daily_rosary.htm
* The Rosary in Latin - http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/pc/rosary/the_rosary_in_latin.htm
* Rosary Prayers (Topic Page) - http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/tp/topic_page-rosary_prayers.htm
* How to Pray the Rosary (Topic Page) - http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/tp/topic_page-how_to_pray_the_rosary.htm
* Holy Rosary (Section) - http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/holy_rosary.htm
* Sacramentals (Topic Page) - http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/tp/topic_page-sacramentals.htm
* Popular Marian Devotions - http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/pc/the_Blessed_Virgin/popular_marian_devotions.htm
* Rosary / Apologetics - http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/nc/non_catholics__Marian.htm
* Devotions, Sacramentals & Pious Practices - http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/pc/prayers_and_devotions/devotions.htm
* Rosary (Coloring Pages) - http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/pc/catholic_activities/catholic_fun_coloring_activities.htm
* Rosary (Crossword Puzzle) - http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/pca/crossword_puzzle_rosary.html
* Rosary (Word Search) - http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/pca/word_search_rosary.htm
* Blessed Virgin Mary (Topic Page) - http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/tp/topic_page-Blessed_Virgin_Mary.htm
Looking For Something Else? Try Our Various Indexes For 15,000+ Entries - http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/help.htm
+ + +
"Always pray the rosary." [St. Pio of Pietrelcina (Padre Pio)]
"[M]ay the beads of the Rosary be in the hands of all" (Pope Pius XII, "Ad Caeli Reginam", 1954 A.D.)
"It is impossible to meditate with devotion upon the mysteries of the Rosary and live in a state of sin." (St. John Vianney)
"If you want peace in your heart, in your home, in your country, assemble together every night and say the Rosary." (Pope St. Pius X)
"[E]xperience shows that no sooner do the people commence to practice this devotion that they open their hearts to the largest channel of grace, so as to be flooded with heavenly gifts." (Muller)
"If you wish to convert anyone to the fullness of the knowledge of Our Lord and of His Mystical Body, then teach him the Rosary. One of two things will happen. Either he will stop saying the Rosary - or he will get the gift of faith." (Archbishop Fulton Sheen)
"We desire very earnestly, Venerable Brethren, that the Holy Rosary should be recited in a special manner in the month of October and with increased devotion both in the churches and in homes." (Pope Pius XI, "Ingravescentibus Malis", 1937 A.D.)
"How great is the power and mercy of the Blessed Virgin for those who are faithful in the practice of the Rosary! If you wish then, to save your soul, practice the devotion of the Rosary with fervor and perseverance. If you wish to save the souls of those who are near and dear to you, try to introduce this devotion without delay into your family." (Muller)
"Now, to appease the might of an outraged God and to bring that health of soul so needed by those who are sorely afflicted, there is nothing better than devout and persevering prayer, provided it be joined with a love for and practice of Christian life. And both of these, the spirit of prayer and the practice of Christian life, are best attained through the devotion of the Rosary of Mary." (Pope Leo XIII, "Magnae Dei Matris", 1892 A.D.)
"There is a certain curious instrument which marks with great accuracy the different degrees of temperature. It contains a fluid which rises when the weather is warm, and falls again as the weather grows cold. You have seen, no doubt, the instrument of which I speak: it is called a thermometer. Now, there is another kind of thermometer, not indeed of the natural, but of the supernatural life - a thermometer which indicates very correctly the warmth of faith in a Catholic, in a family, in a community; and this instrument is the Rosary. It is a well-known fact that wherever the Devotion of the Rosary is practiced, there faith is warm and active." (Muller)
"For as the disastrous condition of the Church and of Society proved to Us the extreme necessity for signal aid from God, it was manifest to Us that aid should be sought through the intercession of His Mother, and by the express means of the Rosary, which Christians have ever found to be of marvelous avail. This indeed has been well proved since the very institution of the devotion, both in the vindication of Holy Faith against the furious attacks of heresy, and in restoring to honor the virtues, which by reason of the Age's corruption, required to be rekindled and sustained. And this same proof was continued in all succeeding ages, by a never failing series of private and public benefits, whereof the illustrious remembrance is everywhere perpetuated and immortalized by monuments and existing institutions. Likewise in Our age, afflicted with that tempest of various evils, it is a joy to Our soul to relate the beneficent influence of the Rosary." (Pope Leo XIII, "Iucunda Semper Expectatione", 1894 A.D.)
+ + +
Reminder: The My Catholic Source.com Eighth Annual Rosary Week will be held this year from 10/24 - 10/30. Please join us! Sign up today at http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/fdb/rosary_week_sign_up.htm
It's easy & free to participate!
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Reflection: The Generosity of the Angels
+ + +
The following is taken from Fr. Paul O'Sullivan's work entitled "All about the Angels".
+ + +
What is of paramount importance to us is that the Holy Angels seek in every possible way to share with us this immense ocean of love and happiness which they themselves enjoy. Their generosity knows no bounds. This is a truth that we must do our best to understand fully and clearly. Were a very rich man to say to us, "Ask me for everything you wish and I will most readily give it to you," how happy we should be! Certainly we would not hesitate to ask for all we need. This is exactly what the Angels say to us: "Ask us and we will give you a share of all our treasures, all our graces, all our happiness, and we will give you some of all we have." Their goodness and generosity are immense. Unfortunately, so far from corresponding with their efforts for our welfare, we constantly impede them by our sins and imperfections. If only we knew them better and loved them more, and were more docile to their constant whisperings, our happiness would be unspeakably great.
+ + +
For more on angels, please visit http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/tp/topic_page-angels.htm
For prayers to angels, please visit http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/pr/prayers_and_hymns_angels.htm
For more reflections, please visit http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/qt/reflections_categorized.htm
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Setting the Record Straight About Luther (Part 2)
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
INTRODUCTION [Note: Introduction reprinted (in part) from 9/16 newsletter]
As we approach the 500th anniversary of the so-called "Reformation", it is unfortunately to be expected in our age that much misinformation concerning the events and the person of Martin Luther will be disseminated. Sadly (scandalously!), certain prelates in the Church have already hailed the arch-heretic as a "Gospel witness and teacher of the Faith". Therefore, it seemed appropriate to counter such assertions with facts concerning Martin Luther, a prideful, vile, insidious, excommunicated, vow-breaking apostate priest, lying, hypocritical, hater of the Church, whose doctrines (which were approved by Satan) and whose warfare against the Church caused bloodshed, harmed families, led to a widespread loss of morality, and has subsequently led to a loss of countless eternal souls.
[Note: Adjectives above may be based on writings of Catholic priests who have studied and written about Luther. See below for sources.]
Advisory: The following may contain adult language/content. Note also that Luther's vileness/coarseness can be quite offensive, especially to those with delicate sensibilities. Regrettably, however, we find it necessary to include such material here (occasionally in a masked fashion, to avoid email filtering) in order to paint a more accurate picture of Luther. We apologize for any offense and advise younger persons & sensitive persons to skip this section and *not* read the material below. Also, those who are not well-grounded in the Catholic faith should not read the following in order to avoid being confused/led astray by the arch-heretic.
Note to readers: This is part 2 of 2 parts. The first part of this article appeared in our September 2016 newsletter (see http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/newsletters/mcs_newsletter_09-16.htm ). Although both parts of this article are longer than we normally prefer for our newsletters, we think the content is important to disseminate. Therefore, please pardon the length of this article. Also, please be advised that we had to prepare this article in an unusually rapid manner, so we regret that it has not been checked over as we would normally prefer to do. We regret if we have missed any issues/errors. Also, please note that we have made various changes to applicable items below (e.g. punctuation, capitalization, spelling, paragraphing, wording changes, exclusion of special characters/footnotes, etc.). A brief outline of the article appears below.
- - -
BRIEF OUTLINE
1. Introduction (above)
2. Some quick facts concerning Luther, which demonstrate that he was not sent by God [Note: This section appeared in our 9/16 newsletter (see http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/newsletters/mcs_newsletter_09-16.htm )]
3. Some results of Luther's teachings [Note: This section appeared in our 9/16 newsletter (see http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/newsletters/mcs_newsletter_09-16.htm )]
4. Some papal quotes regarding Martin Luther [Note: This section appeared in our 9/16 newsletter (see http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/newsletters/mcs_newsletter_09-16.htm )]
5. More on Luther, his teachings/practices/behaviors, and their results [Note: The first part of this section appeared in our 9/16 newsletter (see http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/newsletters/mcs_newsletter_09-16.htm ), the second part appears below]
6. Conclusion (below)
Note: Sources appear at end.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
NOTICE: THE REMAINDER OF THIS ARTICLE IS NOT PRESENTLY AVAILABLE.
Please try back later or click here to purchase Kindle or paperback version of this article. Also note that another publication ('Catholics And Ecumenism') contains this article and is likewise available in Kindle & paperback formats (click here).
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Liturgical Feasts in October
The following is a listing of all liturgical feast dates for October as they appear at http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/pc/saints/feasts.htm
Note: (T) = Traditional, (N) = New (Novus Ordo)
Reminder: Feasts may be superseded / transferred / etc.
+ + +
October 1 - St. Remigius (T)
October 1 - St. Theresa of the Child Jesus (N)
October 2 - The Holy Guardian Angels (T)
October 2 - The Guardian Angels (N)
October 3 - St. Teresa of the Child Jesus (T)
October 4 - St. Francis of Assisi (T)
October 4 - St. Francis of Assisi (N)
October 5 - St. Placid & companions (T)
October 6 - St. Bruno (T)
October 6 - St. Bruno (N)
October 7 - Holy Rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary (T)
October 7 - St. Mark, pope (T)
October 7 - Sts. Marcellus & Apuleius (T)
October 7 - Sts. Sergius & Bacchus (T)
October 7 - Our Lady of the Rosary (N)
October 8 - St. Bridget of Sweden (T)
October 9 - St. John Leonardi (T)
October 9 - Sts. Denis, Rusticus & Eleutherius (T)
October 9 - St. Denis & companions (N)
October 9 - St. John Leonardi (N)
October 10 - St. Francis Borgia (T)
October 11 - The Maternity of the Blessed Virgin Mary (T)
October 13 - St. Edward, king of England (T)
October 14 - St. Callistus I, pope (T)
October 14 - St. Callistus I, pope (N)
October 15 - St. Teresa of Avila (T)
October 15 - St. Teresa of Avila (N)
October 16 - St. Hedwig (T)
October 16 - St. Hedwig (N)
October 16 - St. Margaret Mary Alacoque (N)
October 17 - St. Margaret Mary Alacoque (T)
October 17 - St. Ignatius of Antioch (N)
October 18 - St. Luke the Evangelist (T)
October 18 - St. Luke the Evangelist (N)
October 19 - St. Peter of Alcantara (T)
October 19 - St. Paul of the Cross (N)
October 19 - Sts. Isaac Jogues, John de Brebeuf & companions (N)
October 20 - St. John Cantius (T)
October 21 - St. Hilarion (T)
October 21 - St. Ursula & companions (T)
October 23 - St. John of Capistrano (N)
October 24 - St. Raphael the Archangel (T)
October 24 - St. Anthony Claret (N)
October 25 - Sts. Chrysanthus & Daria (T)
October 26 - St. Evaristus, pope (T)
October 28 - Sts. Simon & Jude, apostles (T)
October 28 - Sts. Simon & Jude, apostles (N)
October 31 - Vigil of All Saints (T)
Please Note: Above may exclude moveable feasts. For moveable feasts, see below and try here: http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/pc/latin_mass_and_tradition/traditional_liturgical_calendar.htm . For other feasts, try the MCS Daily Digest each day at http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/cg/mcs_daily_digest.asp
Also...
10/30/16 - Feast of the Kingship of Our Lord Jesus Christ (T) [Refresher re: traditional timing of this feast: "It is not necessary, Venerable Brethren, that We should explain to you at any length why We have decreed that this feast of the Kingship of Christ should be observed in addition to those other feasts in which his kingly dignity is already signified and celebrated. It will suffice to remark that although in all the feasts of our Lord the material object of worship is Christ, nevertheless their formal object is something quite distinct from his royal title and dignity. We have commanded its observance on a Sunday in order that not only the clergy may perform their duty by saying Mass and reciting the Office, but that the laity too, free from their daily tasks, may in a spirit of holy joy give ample testimony of their obedience and subjection to Christ. The last Sunday of October seemed the most convenient of all for this purpose, because it is at the end of the liturgical year, and thus the feast of the Kingship of Christ sets the crowning glory upon the mysteries of the life of Christ already commemorated during the year, and, before celebrating the triumph of all the Saints, we proclaim and extol the glory of him who triumphs in all the Saints and in all the Elect." (Pope Pius XI, "Quas Primas", 1925 A.D.)]
Note: The Feast of Christ the King is celebrated "after the triumph of all the Saints" in the Novus Ordo calendar, on the Sunday before Advent. [For more on the timing of this feast (October vs. November), please see Guest Article: 'Should the Feast of Christ the King Be Celebrated in October or November?' at http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/cmno/up/RC-Feast_of_Christ_the_King.htm . For more on Christ the King (incl. Act of Consecration), please try the Topic Page at http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/tp/topic_page-Christ_the_King.htm ]
=> Looking for more recently added feasts?
The Vatican announced that the following feast days have been added to the general Roman calendar...
Pope John XXIII - October 11
Pope John Paul II - October 22
While the feast days have been added to the (Novus Ordo) calendar, they are "optional and not obligatory memorials."
[Ref.: Newsflash (9/12/14) - http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/cmno/news_and_opinion.htm ]
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
'Catholic Trivia'
1. Which is the highest of the nine choirs of angels?
2. Of the sins opposed to religion, which are most grievous?
3. Which is the "most ancient & tallest obelisk in Rome"?
4. What does St. John Vianney say are the three conditions of an undertaking which is pleasing to God?
5. Which was the seventh ecumenical council?
6. What term refers to a penalty which is automatically incurred upon committing a particular offense?
7. According to Pope Pius XII, which items "of their very nature" must remain together?
8. Which apostle is invoked against arthritis?
9. Which apostle tells us that if we greet those with strange doctrine we share in their evil works?
10. Besides the Psalms, which book of the bible has the most chapters?
---
Answers:
1. Seraphim are the highest of the nine choirs of angels.
2. "Among sins opposed to religion, the more grievous is that which is the more opposed to the reverence due to God." (St. Thomas Aquinas, Doctor of the Church and "greatest theologian in the history of the Church")
3. The Obelisk of Piazza di San Giovanni in Laterano is the "most ancient & tallest obelisk in Rome".
4. "An undertaking to be pleasing to God must have three conditions: It must be sincere, selfless, and persevering." (St. John Vianney)
5. Nicaea II (Second Council of Nicaea) was the seventh ecumenical council.
6. Latae sententiae penalties are penalties which are automatically incurred upon committing particular offenses.
7. "To separate the Tabernacle from the Altar is tantamount to separating two things which, of their very nature, must remain together." (Pope Pius XII)
8. The apostle St. James (the Greater) is invoked against arthritis.
9. St. John the Apostle tells us that if we even greet those with strange doctrine we share in their evil works (see 2 Jn. 1:10-11).
10. Besides the Psalms, the Book of Isaiah has the most chapters (66 chapters).
---
For more information concerning the topics above, try our General A-Z Index at http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/help.htm
Like trivia? You might enjoy our crossword puzzles located at http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/pc/catholic_activities/catholic_fun_crossword_puzzles.htm
You might also be interested in the Q & A and historical information which may be found each day on the MCS Daily Digest at http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/cg/mcs_daily_digest.asp
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Defending the Faith: "Apologetics Brief" - Do You Think Religious Truths Can Change Over Time?
It is good for Catholics to be able to defend their faith against attacks (or even simple questions) from those outside the Church. We therefore hope you may find the following "apologetics brief" helpful.
- - -
Note: Text below is taken from http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/nc/non_catholics__unchanging_doctrine.htm
The following may be used as discussion points when discoursing with those outside the Church (or even among Catholics).
Topic: Do You Think Religious Truths Can Change Over Time? (Note: Topic is directed at certain Protestants)
Consider:
* Since God is perfect, and therefore unchangeable, how can you imagine that His truths can change?
"God is not man that he should speak falsely, nor human, that he should change his mind. Is he one to speak and not act, to decree and not fulfill?" (Num. 23:19)
"Of old you laid the earth's foundations; the heavens are the work of your hands. They perish, but you remain; they all wear out like a garment; Like clothing you change them and they are changed, but you are the same, your years have no end." (Ps. 102:26-28)
"He plumbs the depths and penetrates the heart; their innermost being he understands. The Most High possesses all knowledge, and sees from of old the things that are to come: He makes known the past and the future, and reveals the deepest secrets. No understanding does he lack; no single thing escapes him. Perennial is his almighty wisdom; he is from all eternity one and the same, with nothing added, nothing taken away; no need of a counselor for him!" (Sirach 42:18-22)
"Even to your old age I am the same, even when your hair is gray I will bear you; It is I who have done this, I who will continue, and I who will carry you to safety." (Isa. 46:4)
"Surely I, the LORD, do not change, nor do you cease to be sons of Jacob." (Mal. 3:6)
"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever." (Heb. 13:8)
"Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers: all good giving and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no alteration or shadow caused by change." (Jms. 1:16-17)
* The dogmas of faith are God's revealed truths. How do you suspect mere persons on earth could ever have the power or authority to change them?
* Why does Scripture specifically tell us to guard what has been received if religious truths are subject to change?
"Let what you heard from the beginning remain in you. If what you heard from the beginning remains in you, then you will remain in the Son and in the Father. And this is the promise that he made us: eternal life. I write you these things about those who would deceive you." (1 Jn. 2:24-26)
"If anyone comes to you and does not bring this doctrine, do not receive him in your house or even greet him; for whoever greets him shares in his evil works." (2 Jn. 1:10-11)
"Anyone who is so 'progressive' as not to remain in the teaching of the Christ does not have God; whoever remains in the teaching has the Father and the Son." (2 Jn. 1:9)
"Remember your leaders who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Do not be carried away by all kinds of strange teaching." (Heb. 13:7-9)
"Whoever teaches something different and does not agree with the sound words of our Lord Jesus Christ and the religious teaching is conceited, understanding nothing, and has a morbid disposition for arguments and verbal disputes. From these come envy, rivalry, insults, evil suspicions, and mutual friction among people with corrupted minds, who are deprived of the truth, supposing religion to be a means of gain." (1 Tm. 6:3-5)
"O Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to you. Avoid profane babbling and the absurdities of so-called knowledge. By professing it, some people have deviated from the faith. Grace be with all of you." (1 Tm. 6:20-21)
"I am amazed that you are so quickly forsaking the one who called you by (the) grace (of Christ) for a different gospel (not that there is another). But there are some who are disturbing you and wish to pervert the gospel of Christ. But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach (to you) a gospel other than the one that we preached to you, let that one be accursed! As we have said before, and now I say again, if anyone preaches to you a gospel other than the one that you received, let that one be accursed! Am I now currying favor with human beings or God? Or am I seeking to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a slave of Christ. Now I want you to know, brothers, that the gospel preached by me is not of human origin. For I did not receive it from a human being, nor was I taught it, but it came through a revelation of Jesus Christ. For you heard of my former way of life in Judaism, how I persecuted the church of God beyond measure and tried to destroy it, and progressed in Judaism beyond many of my contemporaries among my race, since I was even more a zealot for my ancestral traditions." (Gal. 1:6-14)
* Where did you get the idea that religious truths can change over time?
* Considering that "continuity with the apostolic witness is the safeguard of right belief", why are you not troubled by changes in doctrine (e.g. by those outside the Church)?
- - -
"Truth...cannot change from day to day." (Pope Pius XII)
"Those who wage war against the truth are powerless to win; rather, they wound themselves, like those who kick against spikes." (St. John Chrysostom, Doctor of the Church)
"There is only one way of standing in the truth; many and various of not standing in it." [Origen ("the greatest scholar of Christian antiquity" - although he would eventually be excommunicated and be regarded as a heretic), 3rd century A.D.]
"Eternity itself is the substance of God, which has nothing that is changeable. There is nothing there that is past, as if it were no longer; nothing there is future, as if it not yet were. There is nothing there except 'is'." (St. Augustine, Doctor of the Church, c. 5th century A.D.)
- - -
For more apologetics resources, please visit http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/non-catholics.htm
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
In Closing...
"He shall be great and shall be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of David his father: and he shall reign in the house of Jacob for ever." (Lk. 1:32)
"I have no better way of knowing if a man is for God than if he likes to say the Hail Mary and the Rosary." (St. Louis de Montfort)
"It is apparent from these considerations that true peace, the peace of Christ, is impossible unless we are willing and ready to accept the fundamental principles of Christianity, unless we are willing to observe the teachings and obey the law of Christ, both in public and private life." (Pope Pius XI, "Ubi Arcano Dei Consilio", 1922 A.D.)
"Were a good friend to present us several times with a thousand dollars, we would not object to such a sum, but rather wish the amount to be increased. The good Christian, in like manner, never finds the repetition of the prayers of the Rosary tedious, but rather truly delightful. He knows that one single prayer of the Rosary, which is recited with devotion is of more value than all the money, than all the riches, in the universe. What will money, what will all the riches of this world, avail us after death? But the prayers of the Rosary will then be of more help to us than all the honors and wealth in the world." (Muller)
"If, therefore, the rulers of nations wish to preserve their authority, to promote and increase the prosperity of their countries, they will not neglect the public duty of reverence and obedience to the rule of Christ." (Pope Pius XI)
"In every place show respect to thy angel. Let gratitude for his benefits incite thee to honor his greatness. Love this thy future coheir, the guardian appointed for thee by the Father during thy childhood. For though we are souls of God, we are as yet but children, and long and dangerous is our journey. But God hath given His angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways. In their hands they shall bear thee up, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone...Yes; where the road is smooth enough for a child they will content themselves with guiding thee, and sustaining thy footsteps, as one does for children. But if trials threaten to surpass thy strength, they will bear thee up in their hands. Oh those hands of angels! Thanks to them, what fearful straits we have passed through, as it were without thinking, and with no other impression left upon us, than that of a nightmare suddenly dispelled!" (St. Bernard of Clairvaux, Doctor of the Church)
"O God, whose only-begotten Son, by His life, His death and His resurrection hath purchased for us the reward of eternal salvation; grant, we beseech Thee, that meditating on these mysteries in the most holy Rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary, we may both imitate what they contain and obtain what they promise. Through the same Lord." (10/7 Collect)
Prayer to Christ the King: "O Christ Jesus, I acknowledge Thee to be the King of the universe; all that hath been made is created for Thee. Exercise over me all Thy sovereign rights. I hereby renew the promises of my Baptism, renouncing Satan and all his works and pomps, and I engage myself to lead henceforth a truly Christian life. And in an especial manner do I undertake to bring about the triumph of the rights of God and Thy Church, so far as in me lies. Divine Heart of Jesus, I offer Thee my poor actions to obtain the acknowledgement by every heart of Thy sacred kingly power. In such wise may the kingdom of Thy peace be firmly established throughout all the earth. Amen." (Raccolta)
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
We sincerely welcome feedback regarding our newsletters. Please visit our newsletter feedback page at http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/fdb/newsletter_feedback.htm to share your comments.
+ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + +
Thank You For Being a Subscriber to the MyCatholicSource.com E-Mail List.
We Wish You God's Blessings.
+ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + +
Note: Please do not reply to this e-mail address. If you are not a subscriber to this newsletter and you wish to join or if you are a subscriber and wish to unsubscribe, please go to http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/fdb/mail_list.htm . To contact us regarding other matters, please visit our feedback page at http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/fdb/feedback.htm
Use of site / newsletter is subject to our terms of use. For terms information, visit http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/terms_of_use.htm
MyCatholicSource.com is a division of B.F.S. Our mailing address is: Attn.: MyCatholicSource.com, B.F.S., P.O. Box 4292, Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91729-4292
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Please support quality Catholic content & help us maintain our non-commercial appearance...
* Invite a friend to MyCatholicSource.com - please visit http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/fdb/invite_a_friend.htm
* Pray for us
* Link to us in blogs, newsgroups, websites, etc.
* Donate $1.00 or more - please visit http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/cg/donate.htm
* Purchase our apps - please visit http://www.MyCatholicSource.com/Apps
* For more free & low-cost methods, please visit http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/help_us_keep_our_non-commercial_appearance.htm
We appreciate your support!
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -