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Having Principal Problems?
October 14, 2013 -- studentsforlife.org
“I am in a fight with my school right now because I was told that I could not have a pro-life group here at my school. So, I had to send a letter to the city board people over the schools telling them what I want to do and things like that. So, I did that and that was like a week or so ago. Do I just keep sitting here waiting or what should I do? I know that they have a lot of stuff they do but I know that when other people try to start groups it doesn’t take them this long. What should I do?” continued...

Join Us in Protesting Efforts at the UN to Sexualize Children!
Sept. 30, 2013 -- Family Watch
Family Watch had a team in Geneva, Switzerland for the past two weeks at the UN Human Rights Council. We were glad we decided to attend because upon arriving, we discovered one of the most outrageous attacks on children we have yet seen.
During this session, sexual rights activists reached a new low in their agenda to sexualize and corrupt even the youngest of children. continued...

Homeschooling: Under Fire at Home and Abroad
Sept. 18, 2013 -- catholicworldreport.com
The Romeike asylum case suggests the anti-homeschooling mindset already present elsewhere in the world may soon spread to the US.
While the freedom of religion and the rights of parents are basic human rights enshrined in law, a brief filed in the Sixth Circuit of the United States Court of Appeals on June 26, 2013 by the US Justice Department suggests that educating children at home is not a basic human right. On the contrary, in the case of a German homeschooling family seeking political asylum in the United States, the right to homeschool can be denied in the interest of creating "an open pluralistic society." In the case of Uwe Andreas Josef Romeike, et al, v Eric H. Holder, Jr. Attorney General, the Justice Department concluded that "Germany has no persecutory motive against religious minorities when enforcing the compulsory attendance statute," continued...

Aug. 6, 2013 -- Christian Newswire
CRCOA Condemn K of C on Abortion, Gay Marriage
Concerned Roman Catholics of America (CRCOA) condemn the Knights of Columbus for their continuing failure to expel pro-abortion and pro-homosexual politicians. The K of C are meeting in San Antonio, Texas for the 131st Supreme Council Annual Meeting (Supreme Convention) taking place at the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Hotel from August 6-8, 2013. continued...

Millions of dollars paid to WAGGGS and not enough is left to save Girl Scout camps:
July 16, 2013 -
Pluff Mud Perspectives: Lingering One Last Time at the Girl Scout Plantation
With the downturn in the economy, a dropping enrollment and the need to maintain its financial reserves, our local council could no longer afford to maintain the property as needed and continue to fulfill their core mission of "building girls of courage, confidence and character who will make the world a better place." And it is thus, with great difficulty and heavy hearts that they decided to part with this magnificent property along with 3 others. Yet, after 3 years of marketing, the plantation did not sell for the asking price. Hence this past week, I read in this Post and Courier article the Girl Scout Council's announcement to sell the property at absolute auction on July 26, 2013. continued...

June 14, 2013 - studentsforlife
Obama’s War on Girls
President Obama is waging a War on Girls by allowing young children to get Plan B without a physician or parent’s care or knowledge. Use of Plan B does NOT reduce abortion rates, but it does increase a whole host of dangerous risks. This is not “reproductive justice;” this is child abuse. Read more:

June 24, 2013 -- foxnews.com
Declining membership, fiscal woes among problems facing Girl Scouts
Given the friction and financial woes facing the Girl Scouts these days, perhaps it's time for a giant friendship circle. Under that long-standing tradition, a ring of Scouts clasp hands and give a little squeeze, accompanied by a silent wish of good will.
Just a year after its centennial celebrations, the Girl Scouts of the USA finds itself in a different sort of squeeze. Its interconnected problems include declining membership and revenues, a dearth of volunteers, rifts between leadership and grassroots members, a pension plan with a $347 million deficit, and an uproar over efforts by many local councils to sell venerable summer camps. Please read...

May 31, 2013 -- wordsfromcana
Girl Scouts Join Planned Parenthood at Huge Pro-Abortion Conference
Tell me who you hang out with and I’ll tell you who you are.
Anna Maria Chávez, CEO of Girl Scouts USA (GSUSA), offers this pithy saying as her favorite quote. In order to figure out who the Girl Scouts are, I suppose we must follow Ms. Chávez’ logic and look at the organizations that GSUSA associates with.
A good place to start would be the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS). WAGGGS has member organizations across the globe, the largest of which is GSUSA, contributing approximately a quarter of the ten million members that belong to WAGGGS. Please read...

May 24, 2013 -- christianitytoday
Boy Scouts' Membership Change May Grow Christian Youth Clubs
Across the country, there are decades-old religious alternatives with names like Pathfinders (Seventh-day Adventist), Royal Ambassadors (Southern Baptist) and Royal Rangers (Assemblies of God).
And with the Boy Scouts of America deciding to change its membership policy to admit gay members (but continue its ban on gay leaders), some of these groups are fielding inquiries from people concerned about the action. Read more:

May 23, 2013 -- royalrangers
Assemblies of God Response to the Boy Scouts of America's Resolution May 23, 2013
Assemblies of God leadership regrets that the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) has voted to change its policy regarding inclusion of homosexual youth members. We believe – as do a majority of Boy Scout volunteer leaders and parents – that this is not the best policy for BSA, nor for the young men it serves. Read more:

March 27, 2013
Be a Wilberforce Leadership Fellow! -- Students for Life
Are you a leader or officer in your campus pro-life group?
Do you aspire to work in the pro-life movement full-time?
Do you want to be mentored by a national pro-life leader?
If you answered “Yes” to all of these questions, then you should consider applying for the SFLA Wilberforce Leadership Fellowship! continued

March 5, 2013 -- Thomas L. McDonald
Girl Scouts, WAGGGS, and Abortion: Still A Problem
The most challenging, least satisfying writing I’ve done since I started covering religion was this two part piece on the Girl Scouts. It percolated for months as I sifted through tons of information and tried to figure out just what the Girl Scouts of the USA were doing, if it was compatible with Catholic values, and what parents should do about it. Please read...

March 3, 2013 -- wordsfromcana
Girl Scouts Still Humming The Pro-Abortion Chorus
The Girl Scouts’ Law insists that Girl Scouts be “responsible for what I say and do.” When it comes to abortion, however, the Girl Scouts USA “says” the magic words that keep pro-life members in the fold (i.e. that Girl Scouts “does not take a position” on sexuality, birth control, or abortion).
What they “do” behind the scenes is another story. Please read...

March 3, 2013 -- wordsfromcana
Girl Scouts Still Humming The Pro-Abortion Chorus
The Girl Scouts’ Law insists that Girl Scouts be “responsible for what I say and do.” When it comes to abortion, however, the Girl Scouts USA “says” the magic words that keep pro-life members in the fold (i.e. that Girl Scouts “does not take a position” on sexuality, birth control, or abortion).
What they “do” behind the scenes is another story. Please read...

Dear Friends of HonestGirlScouts.com,
Today, February 22 is Girl Scouts' annual World Thinking Day where Girl Scouts and Girl Guides around the world are asked to think about what their sister WAGGGS members are doing (as well as make donations to WAGGGS). So, in honor of Thinking Day, we ask:
Q: WHAT IS GIRL SCOUTS' NEXT ABORTION LOBBYING EVENT?
A: ...(Read "Women Deliver" and look at the bottom in Youth Advisory Groups for WAGGGS. Notice Planned Parenthood (IPPF and PPFA) and Marie Stopes -- Europe's largest abortion provider -- are featured as well as homosexual activists Advocates for Youth and Y-PEER). Women Deliver

February 21, 2013 -- Fr. John Zuhlsdorf
Question to readers for clarity’s sake: Girl Scouts and Planned Parenthood – What’s up?
I have found that when I place a question here to the readership, experts (and non-) come out of the woodwork.
So, I put a question to the readers.
Do you know what the situation is right now with the Girl Scouts in these USA and their relationship (or non-) with Planned Parenthood? Important. Must read...

February 20, 2013 -- catholicworldreport.com
The Orwellian World of Catholic Higher Education
In 1990, Pope John Paul II released Ex Corde Ecclesiae, the papal document defining the centrality of Catholic higher education. Its title translated as “from the heart of the Church,” the document called for Catholic colleges to be faithful to their Catholic mission and accountable to their local bishops. Fiercely resisted by many Catholic college presidents and faculty members, who viewed Ex Corde Ecclesiae as a threat to their academic freedom, it took more than 10 years to implement. Last month, the Office of the Secretariat of Education at the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops released what they called The Final Report for the Ten Year Review of the Application of Ex Corde Ecclesiae for the United States. more...

February 13, 2013 -- Opinions
Lenten Reflection: Father of Lies and the Triumph of Truth by Cathy Pearson
As Lent is a season of spiritual warfare, it behooves us to know our enemy. Our enemy, as St. Paul tells us, is not flesh and blood, but spirit -- "principalities and powers of darkness in high places" -- troops whose leader St. Peter describes as a roaring lion in search of someone to devour. The warfare over our souls is not between good and evil as intellectual concepts, but between active personal wills -- God who is pure love and the devil who is pure hatred. Father of Lies

February 10, 2013 -- HonestGirlScouts
Dear Friends,
Please find attached an updated Cookie Boycott Flyer for 2013. It includes Girl Scouts' support for legalized prostitution.
2013CookieBoycott
BE AWARE that you can either:
a) print on one side only and be done, or
b) save paper and give out halfsheets by copying on both sides of a sheet. To do this, be careful that the tops of the pages are on the same edge (or else you will have the same info on both sides of a halfsheet, head-to-foot)
Good Luck and God Bless,
HonestGirlScouts.com
honestgirlscouts@gmail.com

February 7, 2013 -- The Tablet
Lenten Regulations
Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio encourages all of the faithful to enter into this more intense period of preparation and prayer by calling us to make use of the traditional Lenten practices of fasting, prayer and almsgiving. May our renewed faith in the risen Lord find ever deeper expression in our charity toward those most in need, particularly toward those in our diocese who continue to suffer from the devastation left by Hurricane Sandy. more

February 6, 2013 -- From: HonestGirlScouts DotCom
Girl Scouts has hit a new low.
The World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS), which is disproportionately funded by founding member,
Girl Scouts of the USA was on the Steering Committee of the 2012 Bali Global Youth Forum in December. more

January 28, 2013 -- Christian Newswire
Ten Percent Increase for Child Evangelism Fellowship USA
Child Evangelism Fellowship, the largest Christian ministry to children in the world, reports that it ministered to nearly 900,000 children in the United States in 2012. This represents a 10.3 percent increase over 2011. CEF has 15 programs in the United States through which it reaches children with the gospel more

January 22, 2013 -- ed
While our faith is under attack from every direction our Archdiocese is eliminating our most vital line of defense: Our Schools
The Archdiocese is closing 22 elementary schools and two secondary schools in June 2013.
The number of students at the elementary schools announced for closure today is 4,341, which represents almost 9 percent of those enrolled in Catholic elementary schools.
Cardinal Dolan closed 26 elementary schools in 2011 more

January 22, 2013 -- ed
Pope Benedict XVI's Prayer For The Unborn
The Pope prayed for the protection of life and the family at the conclusion of the Prayer Vigil for the Unborn on Nov. 27. The prayer, which was composed by Benedict XVI, asks God to bless families and to inspire society to embrace each and every life. more

January 1, 2013 -- Vatican
Pope on New Year's Day: find inner peace in God
Pope Benedict celebrated mass in St Peter’s Basilica on New Year’s Day, marking the feast of Mary and the Church’s World Day of Peace. In his homily the Pope urged people to look to God and to his son Jesus for true peace in a world fraught with problems, darkness and anxieties. more

December 14, 2012 -- Fr. John Zuhlsdorf
What young Catholics want
I was referred to an interesting blog post by a "Young Catholic".
This young Catholic explodes the assumptions aging-liberals make about what what young Catholics want. Here is a taste:
The problem is all these pastors, youth pastors and music directors keep telling us young folk what bores us, what we really like, what we find interesting. And guess what, THEY'RE WRONG! If one listens to the young Catholic voice, one would find we are yearning for beauty, for tradition and for truth. more

November 28, 2012 -- catholicwvengeance.
What Young Catholics Truly Want.
Attention Pastors, Youth Pastors, Music Directors, Deacons and Catechists:
I have oft heard the complaint from you that "The young people aren't interested in Catholic faith, they don't come to Mass and they don't volunteer to sing, lector or help with ministries…it seems there is little hope these days!"
I've come to tell you, there is hope! The young people can be drawn to Catholic faith, Mass, choir and any church-related ministry. You can get them interested! more

December 5, 2012 -- TFP Student Action
9 Ways to Celebrate Christmas on Campus
It's OK to say "Merry Christmas"
Just as the Christ Child was rejected 2,000 years ago, and had nowhere but a cold stable for a birthplace, our world has little to do with Christmas.
Articles questioning the existence of Christ, the virginity of Mary, and other Catholics tenets are disseminated by the media, and lawsuits aim to remove “offensive” Nativity scenes from the public square.
What can be done? TFP Student Action has compiled a list of very concrete actions you can take to celebrate Our Lord’s coming this Christmas Season. read more

November 30, 2012 -- catholicnewsagency
The post-election Church
The cardinal looked grim. “This is the situation now,” he said. “One political party is dangerous and the other is stupid.”
Since that was said in a private chat, it wouldn’t be fair for me to name the speaker. But his comment expresses sentiments that probably are widely shared in the American hierarchy today, as indeed they’re shared widely by many Americans. more

November 5, 2012 -- Delphi
Catholic Opinions -- Election 2012
Archbishop José H. Gomez , Archbishop Thomas Wenski, Bishop Thomas John Paprocki,
Bill Donohue the Catholic League, Archbishop Chaput, Archbishop William E. Lori. more

November 2, 2012
Important message from Father Pavone, National Director, Priests for Life:
God is calling you to be a Prophet for Life this election!
Yes, YOU!
God placed you here at this moment for a reason. And I believe He did so because He wants YOU to tell all those you know that they have a grave moral obligation, not merely to vote ...
... but to VOTE PRO-LIFE.
After all, if a politician can't respect the life of a little baby, how can we expect him to respect ours?
Right now, go to his site view the video and share the message.

October 10, 2012 -- -- Christian Newswire
American Heritage Girls Launch Video
2-D Animated Video Connects Girls to Faith, Service and Fun
What do karaoke, canoeing and cupcakes have in common? According to a 2-D animated video from the American Heritage Girls (AHG), it's where faith, service and fun come together!
AHG encourages families who are seeking a Christ-centered scouting experience for their daughters to use the video before church services, Scout Sunday, conferences, back-to-school nights and other community events. read more

September 24, 2012 -- ucanindia.in
Salesian school to plant 12,000 trees
A Salesian school in West Bengal plans to plant some 12,000 high yielding timber saplings as part of its eco-friendly drive.
The weeklong Go Green project was launched by Don Bosco Technical School in Krishnagar Sept. 22.
"It is to utilize the land lying fallow, to protect the property from being encroached, and to be part of the go green movement," read more

September 19, 2012 -- Michelle Bauman -- catholicnewsagency.com
Campus tour invites college students to vote pro-life first
A new nationwide initiative is asking young American voters to remember the importance of life when they cast their ballots this November.
"We wanted to find a way to engage young pro-lifers in this election," said Kristan Hawkins, president of Students for Life of America, the country's largest pro-life youth organization. read more

Sept. 11, 2012 -- Christian Newswire
American Heritage Girls Blitzes Communities with First Annual National Day of Service
Thousands of Hours Donated by Catholic Troops Across the Nation Sept. 15
American Heritage Girls (AHG), a Christ-centered character development program for girls kindergarten through age 18, will demonstrate faith through hands and feet of service on its first annual National Day of Service Sept. 15. National Day of Service is AHG's response to the command of Jesus to "love one another." read more

August 22, 2012 -- cardinalnewmansociety
Georgetown’s Fluke May Speak at Democrat Convention
The Associated Press is reporting that pro-contraception and homosexual rights activist Sandra Fluke, a law student at Georgetown University, will speak at the Democrat Party convention in September.
Two weeks ago, Fluke spoke at a campaign rally in Denver for President Barack Obama. read more

August 17, 2012 -- cardinalnewmansociety
Heading to College? Some Outstanding Advice
Catholic college students heading off to college, this is important! College can be the best years of your life… as long as you go prepared.
Whether attending a Catholic college, another private college or a state university, students today should be well aware that amid all the joy of learning and community, college life includes more than a few temptations and dangers to the soul. Thankfully, there’s good advice to help you on your way.
One is How to Stay Catholic in College, an excellent resource from Catholic Answers. read more

August 11, 2012 -- LifeNews.com
Pro-life leaders ‘thrilled’ with Mitt Romney’s choice of pro-life Paul Ryan as vice president
Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney has chosen Wisconsin Congressman Paul Ryan as his running mate.
Romney introduced the pro-life Catholic as his vice presidential choice at a campaign stop in Norfolk, Virginia, on Saturday morning.
In his acceptance speech Ryan said, "America is more than a place; it’s an idea. It’s the only country founded on an idea. Our rights come from nature and God, not government." read more

To Archbishop Dolan: Please cancel the Al Smith dinner!
August 6, 2012 -- Steven Ertelt -- LifeNews.com
Obama Attendance at Catholic Charities Dinner Sparks Criticism
President Barack Obama has been invited to attend the annual Al Smith Catholic Charities dinner this October in New York and the participation of the pro-abortion president at the dinner is drawing nationwide condemnation.
Obama accepted the invitation of Archbishop of New York, Cardinal Timothy Dolan, the president of the U.S Conference of Catholic bishops. The Alfred E. Smith Memorial Foundation Dinner is an annual fundraiser for North York Catholic Charities and will be held on the third Thursday of October. read more

August 6, 2012 -- catholicculture.org
Pope cites 'unprecedented gravity' of threat to religious freedom in US
Pope Benedict XVI has warned of the "unprecedented gravity" of threats to religious freedom of Catholics in the US.
In a message to the 130th Supreme Convention of the Knights of Columbus, which takes place this week in Anaheim, California, the Pope praises the American tradition of freedom--especially religious freedom--but notes "the responsibility of each new generation to preserve, defend and advance those great ideals in its own day." Read more

August 1, 2012 -- Cardinal Newman Society
Religious Persecution Begins, Targets College Students
The Cardinal Newman Society, a national organization to help renew and strengthen Catholic identity in Catholic higher education, issued the following statement:
August 1, 2012, marks the formal beginning of the persecution of Catholic colleges and universities that wish to remain faithful to the teachings of the Catholic Church. Read more

World Youth Day 2013 official prayer released by the World Youth Day office in Rio. Read more

June 28, 2012 -- Christian Newswire/
SCOTUS Health Care Decision's Impact on Young Americans
Statement by Generation Opportunity President Paul T. Conway
.... "President Obama's health care law stands as one of the largest tax increases in American history, it will be paid for by young Americans, whose dreams and plans for the future have already been derailed by failed policies that have denied their access to full-time, meaningful jobs in their chosen career paths. Young adults know they will pay the true costs of President Obama's legislation -- over a trillion dollars more in federal spending, more waste and fraud, increased American debt, and the inability to keep or choose healthcare plans that best suit their needs as individuals. Elections have consequences, and young adults will be organizing themselves far more actively than some might assume -- they will not settle for leadership that ignores their concerns, limits their freedoms, and continues to bankrupt their futures."
Read more

June 25, 2012 /Christian Newswire/
Bullying Crisis Horrifies Parents,
Ignites Homeschool Revolution -- Research Reveals
While working on a new reality TV series, called Homeschool Television, to appear on DoersTV.com in the fall of 2012, research revealed that the current bullying crisis in public and private schools is a direct link to horrified parents joining the Homeschool Revolution. Read more

June 22, 2012 -- Sister Renée Mirkes
Myth-Busting the Mandate Debate
From the "War on Women" to "a Catholics-only fight" coverage of the HHS controversy is rife with distortions and misinformation. Read more

Jun 20, 2012 -- LifeSiteNews.com
‘Get in line’ or ‘resign’ Admiral tells military chaplain
Although the U.S. Military fight and die to uphold freedom, high-level military chaplains report they are increasingly being denied freedom of conscience and freedom of speech. There is also alarm about the negative effects on troop morale over the undoing of the 237-years’ practice of providing traditional religious support for U.S. soldiers.
“We were promised that we would see no change - very little change,” says Col. Ron Crews, alluding to a two-star officer’s assurance that the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” repeal would not impede the ministry of military chaplains. That promise, he says, has not been kept. Read more

Jun 19, 2012 -- Matthew Archbold -- cardinalnewmansociety.org
Garvey: Six Proofs that Our Religious Liberty Is Threatened
The Catholic University of America President John Garvey addressed the General Assembly of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops in Atlanta, Ga., last week and offered six reasons to believe that religious liberty is under attack. Read more

June 19, 2012 -- cardinalnewmansociety.org
NRLB: No Religious Exemption for Duquesne
Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, one of three Catholic colleges forced to struggle against the National Labor Relations Board’s unconstitutional violations of religious liberty, just got some bad news. The NRLB reportedly is refusing to grant the university a religious exemption.
The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported:
The National Labor Relations Board in Pittsburgh Monday denied a religious exemption sought by Duquesne University to the board’s campus jurisdiction, a decision that clears the way for a scheduled union election by adjunct faculty starting Friday. Read more

June 7, 2012 -- http://youngandcatholic.net
The Fortnight for Freedom: Young People, Too:
The United States bishops have called us all to “A Fortnight for Freedom”: Two weeks of prayer, education, and action for the cause of religious freedom in our country (June 21st to July 4th). They are calling upon “all the energies the Catholic community can muster.”
In other words: This is a big deal, people. The bishops are the successors to the Apostles… That means when our bishop speaks, we listen up. When all of the bishops of our country speak in unison, I repeat: it’s a big deal. So how are we, as young people, called to participate in this Fortnight for Freedom? read more

June 6 and 7, 2012 -- Thomas L. McDonald, ncregister.com
Is the Girl Scouts Safe for Catholic Girls? -- Part 1
U.S. bishops’ committee for laity looking into ‘possible problematic relationships with other organizations,’ materials and resources.
After years of questions and concerns about the Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA), the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops is conducting an inquiry into the organization and its relationship with the Catholic Church. Part 1
Is the Girl Scouts Safe for Catholic Girls? -- Part 2
As the U.S. bishops take up an inquiry, parents continue to be concerned about the organization. Boys who 'identify' as girls are welcome to join in Colorado. Part 2

May 31, 2012 -- Thomas L. McDonald, ncregister.com
Website Review: NFCYM: National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry
National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry “participates in the mission of the Catholic Church by advocating for and supporting Catholic youth ministry on the national, diocesan, and local level.”
.... However, the NFCYM does not seem to take fidelity to the teachings of the Church into account when choosing with whom to associate itself. From featuring dissidents as speakers at their conferences, to recommending unfaithful resources, to partnering with the Girl Scouts, this organization seems to be "open and inclusive" to everything but fidelity to the Magisterium. read more

May 21, 2012 -- cardinalnewmansociety
Catholic Universities to Fight Mandate in Court
Four Catholic institutions of higher learning earlier today became plaintiffs in separate, federal lawsuits filed against the Department of Health and Human Services.
The lawsuits seek to overturn the HHS contraception that would force Catholic institutions to pay for health insurance coverage that includes both contraception and abortion-inducing drugs, regardless of the moral repugnance.
The Catholic University of America, the University of Notre Dame, Franciscan University of Steubenville, and the University of St. Francis in Indiana, all filed or joined suits today. Read more

May 4, 2012 -- Cardinal Newman Soc.
Kathleen Sebelius to Speak at Georgetown Commencement Ceremony
In what can only be interpreted as a direct challenge to America’s Catholic bishops, Georgetown University has announced that “pro-choice” Catholic Kathleen Sebelius, Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and lead architect of the Obama administration’s assault on religious freedom through the HHS contraception mandate, has been invited to speak at one of Georgetown’s several commencement ceremonies. Read more

May 4, 2012 -- (C-FAM) Timothy Herrmann
Pro-Abortion and Pro-Homosexual Youth Lobby Sent Home Empty-Handed from UN
Youth activists arrived at the UN in droves last week in an attempt to hijack the 45th session of the Commission on Population and Development (CPD) by promoting homosexual rights and abortion. However, countries rejected their demands and produced a fairly balanced outcome document that focuses on more pressing youth concerns like education, employment, health and development.
Sponsored by organizations like the International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF), the Youth Coalition, and the International Women’s Health Coalition (IWHC), youth activists flooded the conference floor and were strategically placed on country delegations with the hope of shifting the conference’s focus to sexual and reproductive health of youth and adolescents. Read more

April 19, 2012 -- WYD2013 News
The Pope's WYD Mission - From Madrid to Rio
“Whenever I bring to mind the twenty-sixth World Youth Day in Madrid, my heart fills with gratitude to God for the experience of grace of those unforgettable days” said Pope Benedict XVI as he celebrated the 27th World Youth Day on Palm Sunday this year. The Holy Father has invited all of us to join him for the next World Youth Day in Rio de Janeiro in 2013! Visit this article to read more More

April 16, 2012 -- cardinalnewmansociety.org
Georgetown Hosts Sandra Fluke as Speaker on Contraception Access
Georgetown University, a Jesuit university, is inviting students, faculty and staff to a ”A Conversation with Sandra Fluke on Contraception Access” later this month, according to the university’s calendar.
The opportunity for debate seems somewhat limited though with the choice of moderator being Judy Feder, professor of public policy and former dean of the Georgetown Public Policy Institute. More

April 17, 2012 -- cardinalnewmansociety.org
Archbishop Chaput on Urgency to Witness to Faith
With relevance for the renewal of Catholic identity in Catholic education, Catholic News Agency is reporting that Philadelphia Archbishop Charles Chaput has argued that public witness to the faith is even more urgent given the “mistakes and ambiguities of the past half-century of American Catholic experience.” Certainly the countless Catholic students who lost their faith at Catholic universities in recent decades are evidence of the ambiguities Archbishop Chaput mentions. More

April 13, 2012 -- cardinalnewmansociety.org
Archbold: Commonweal’s “But”
The editors of Commonweal want you to know that they’re all for religious liberty but (and this is a big “but”) they believe the bishops are behaving in too partisan a manner and are actually hurting the struggle for religious liberty.
The editors today scolded the bishops for what they term “the partisan” nature of the bishops’ statement, Our First, Most Cherished Liberty, which calls on Catholics to engage in the struggle for religious liberty. More

March 30, 2012 -- catholicleague.org
Archbishop Chaput's e-book "A Heart on Fire: Catholic Witness and the Next America" is now available for Kindle. ($.99) -
Don't have a Kindle? Get the free Kindle to PC app here
Catholic League's president Bill Donohue's review of the book:
This is the right book by the right author at the right time. Archbishop Chaput calls our attention to the growing hostility to religion in public life. "In government, the media, academia, in the business community and in the wider culture," he says, "many of our leaders no longer seem to regard religious faith as a healthy force." Indeed, "The America emerging in the next several decades is likely to be much less friendly to Christian faith than anything in our country's past." He is particularly concerned about the way this "new orthodoxy" is impacting young people. More

March 12, 2012 -- Timothy Herrmann
Constructive Ambiguity at CSW by Elliott Bradley
In drafting the resolutions for publication by the United Nations the delegates seem to prefer the most vague language possible. The end result of these deliberations are the very opposite of resolute. More

February 27, 2012 -- Fr. Sammie Maletta:
The Government Wants to Run The Catholic Church
The ultimate goal about Obama Care and the HHS Manate
The virtually unknown broken promise President-elect Obama gave during a special meeting with he called with the Catholic Bishops
The untold truth about the Government and Catholic Social Services
What the Catholic Church will do before being forced to provide for “reproductive services” More

February 24, 2012 -- myfoxphilly.com
Four Catholic High Schools To Stay Open
Four Philadelphia-area Catholic high schools will stay open that had been expected to close this summer. The Archdiocese will also seek to raise $100 million over five years to benefit all schools. More

February 10, 2012 -- catholicnewsagency.com
Connecticut youth congress explores true meaning of freedom
Is freedom just the absence of rules, or something more? Over three hundred high school students will discuss what it means to be free, during the March 9-11 Convivio conference in Fairfield, Conn.
Freedom “is such an important topic in our time but also one that is very misunderstood,” organizer Florencia Silva said in an announcement released by congress. She directs youth ministry in the Diocese of Bridgeport, which is sponsoring the international Catholic youth congress.
Organized by the Marian Community of Reconciliation, the 2012 Convivio conference belongs to a 30-year tradition of bringing young people together More

January 30, 2012 -- fides.org
Christian Schools targeted by radical Muslims in Kashmir
Srinagar (Agenzia Fides) - Christian schools are being targeted by Islamic extremists in Kashmir, accused of "proselytism". After the expulsion order against two Protestant and one Catholic missionaries (Pastors C.M. Khanna and Gayoor Masih and the Catholic, Father Jim Borst), issued by an Islamic court of Kashmir, Christian educational institutions are a particular target of violence: this is the alarm that Fides learns by the Christians in Kashmir.
As explained to Fides, the NGO "Catholic Secular Forum", an authentic campaign against Christian schools, which exist in the Indian state of Muslim-majority for over a century has been launched. More

January 25, 2012 -- Penny Starr cnsnews.com
Obama's Former Faith Adviser: 'I, Frankly, Am Glad American Civil Religion is Dying'
Shaun Casey, the religious affairs adviser to presidential candidate Barack Obama in 2008, said at a discussion on Tuesday about "God and Politics" that the demise of religious society in the United States is a good thing.
"I, frankly, am glad American civil religion is dying," said Casey, who is an associate professor of Christian Ethics at Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington, D.C. More
Shaun, we are near bottom. We have denied religion for too long. Our younger generation is realizing that government without God and morality is corrupt and cannot survive. Likewise, families do not survive.
Like addicts, we will hitt bottom. Then we will rebound with a vengeance.

January 24, 2012 -- ncregister.com by Amy Smith
A Catholic Girl's Guide to Pop-Culture Christianity
Pop culture revolves around an ever-changing mix of headlines. I am happy to see that many deal with Christianity lately.
"Tebowing" is part of the American lexicon now due to Denver Broncos quarterback Tim Tebow's Christian faith on and off the field.
I think it's great how Tebow is glorifying God in all things, More

January 23, 2012 -- catholicnewsagency.com -- Mary Hasson
Girl Scouts leadership: pro-choice, pro-gay idealogues
Who's calling the shots over at the Girl Scouts? And where's the organization headed?
The questions matter for two reasons. First, it's cookie season. Any day now some cute little girls wearing green sashes and bright smiles will knock on your door and sweetly seek support for their projects, badges, and activities. Do you write the check or not? (Forget your craving for Thin Mints. Think rationally!) Should you support the Girl Scouts?
Second, the Girl Scouts organization (GSUSA) is in trouble again. In recent weeks, they've drawn scrutiny for promoting biased resources (the left-wing Media Matters) and pressuring an employee to muzzle her pro-life views. The latest events top the pile of controversies that has outraged parents and spurred some Scouts to quit the organization. More

January 13, 2012 -- catholicculture.org
Bishop rebukes Jesuit university for inviting pro-abortion speaker
Bishop Joseph Bambera of Scranton, Pennsylvania has released a public statement rebuking the Jesuit-administered University of Scranton for inviting a pro-abortion activist to speak.
Bishop Bambera disclosed that he had asked the university to rescind an invitation to Marjorie Margolies, a former member of the US House of Representatives who had been an aggressive defender of legal abortion and later worked for a political organization promoting pro-abortion candidates. The university refused to comply with the bishop’s request. more

January 6, 2012 -- lifenews.com
Teen Spared For Two More Weeks From Parents Forcing Abortion
by Kristen Walker | Washington, DC | LifeNews.com | 1/10/12 12:44 PM
A 14-year-old girl in Corpus Christi, TX, received a temporary restraining order on Dec. 21 to stop her family from forcing her to get an abortion. A state district judge appointed an attorney for the teen and extended the restraining order until Jan. 19, when a hearing will determine whether the order will remain in place for the duration of the girl’s pregnancy. .. more
Parents have some rights but not the right to kill a baby and to endanger the welfare of the mother.

January 6, 2012 -- William Stover
Abortion Advocacy Groups at 6 Catholic Universities
As society continues its downward spiral, one would hope and expect Catholic universities to stand as a beacon in the darkness. Sadly, the actions of many Catholic educational institutions betray this hope. One particularly heinous facet of this betrayal is the presence of patently pro-abortion advocacy groups on Catholic campuses called “Students for Reproductive Justice.” Even the most cursory examination shows that in the shadow of “reproductive justice” looms the promotion of abortion, the worst injustice.
According to the Catholic Boston College web site:
“The Students for Reproductive Justice (LSRJ) at Boston College Law School promotes discussion, education, and advocacy on issues of reproductive freedom. LSRJ works on reproductive health and choice issues such as global family planning, comprehensive sex education, contraceptive equity and birth control options, safe, legal and accessible abortion…”1
.....Analogous pro-abortion groups can be found at other Catholic universities, including DePaul University, Fordham University, Georgetown University, Santa Clara University and Seattle University. PROTEST NOW

January 5, 2012 -- Peter Baklinski -- LifeSiteNews.com
Shock: 40% of New York pregnancies aborted
With the highest abortion rate in the nation, nearly double the 23% national average, New York continues to be a place that babies in the womb cannot love.
New York City Department of Health released data that shows that 83,750 abortions were performed in New York City in 2010, which translated to 40% of all pregnancies, down from 41% in 2009.
The Bronx saw a staggering 48% of pregnancies end in abortion. The city lost 38,574 African-Americans babies to abortion, a dumbfounding 60% of the city’s African-American pregnancies.
....The abortion rate among NY teens as a whole was 63%, 12,139 abortions to 7,207 live births. That means that for every 1,000 babies born among New York City teens, 1,684 were aborted. PROTEST NOW

December 31, 2011 -- The Vatican
Educating Young People In Justice And Peace
Message Of His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI
For The Celebration Of The World Day Of Peace
"...Attentiveness to young people and their concerns, the ability to listen to them and appreciate them, is not merely something expedient; it represents a primary duty for society as a whole, for the sake of building a future of justice and peace.
It is a matter of communicating to young people an appreciation for the positive value of life and of awakening in them a desire to spend their lives in the service of the Good. This is a task which engages each of us personally." .. more

December 21, 2011 -- Laura Peredo
Counseling Pregnant Women in Cyberspace
Many people call abortion clinics the front-line of the battle between life and death - the last place you can reach out to a woman and help her choose life for herself and her baby. If you don't have the time to go outside an abortion clinic, here's an idea: go behind the scenes. Instead of fighting on the front-lines, go into the back ground and reach out to abortion-bound women before they even get to the clinic.
How can you do that? It's quite simple! Recently I was reminded at the International Pro-Life Youth Conference to be where the people are at. .. more

December 21, 2011 -- by Pat Archbold
The Death Of Pretty
This post is intended as a lament of sorts, a lament for something in the culture that is dying and may never been seen again. -- Pretty, pretty is dying.
People will define pretty differently. For the purposes of this piece, I define pretty as a mutually enriching balanced combination of beauty and projected innocence.
Once upon a time, women wanted to project an innocence. I am not idealizing another age and I have no illusions about the virtues of our grandparents, concupiscence being what it is. But some things were different in the back then. First and foremost, many beautiful women, whatever the state of their souls, still wished to project a public innocence and virtue. And that combination of beauty and innocence is what I define as pretty. .. more

December 15, 2011 -- EWTNews Feature
Archbishop Carlson sees signs of encouragement for US vocations
Archbishop Robert J. Carlson, the head of the U.S. bishops' committee on vocations, believes Catholics should be encouraged by great signs of hope for the future of the priesthood in America.
Archbishop Carlson of St. Louis told EWTN News on Dec. 12 that although there is a "great need for more seminarians" in the United States, several recent "positive trends" in seminary enrollment should "give us hope as a people of faith."     more

December 6, 2011 -- Brian Kelly -- catholicism.org
Two Jesuit Universities Co-Sponsor Conferences to Undermine Natural Moral Law and Church Teaching
Campus Notes: In a special investigative report released today, The Cardinal Newman Society (CNS) provides evidence of "a well-orchestrated attempt to undermine the Church's doctrine and its stand against homosexual 'marriage'" at a series of conferences co-sponsored by two Jesuit universities and funded by a radical foundation. -- more
The universities: Fordham and Fairfield
Report: Dissent and Sacrilege
Tags: Arcus Foundation, Fairfield University, Fordham, infiltration of Church, Jesuit perfidy, moral heretics, more than a monologue

December 5, 2011 -- Vatican Radio
Card. Rodriguez: Kyoto failure "moral apartheid"
Caritas Internationalis President Cardinal Oscar Rodriguez Maradiaga says failure at UN climate talks in Durban is a "moral apartheid" that cannot be allowed to happen. On Sunday, thousands of people representing the nations most effected by increasingly erratic weather conditions marched peacefully on Durban, South Africa, to bring the focus of UN Climate Change talks back to the human toll of a global politics that puts industry before lives. During a special Mass at Emmanuel Cathedral in Durban, Cardinal Rodriguez noted "Just as South Africa's Apartheid era policies sought divisions along race lines, today the world's environment and energy policies divide man from nature". -- more
We respectfully disagree. We should be ready to help people affected by climate catastrophes and improve their position for future calamities. We should not get involved with groups that have turned "Global Warming" into their religion!

Nov. 28, 2011 -- Vatican City, (Zenit.org)
Papal Address to Student Group on Ecology
"Respect for the Human Being and Respect for Nature Are One"
Vatican Radio translation of Benedict XVI's address today to a foundation called "Sister Nature."
Lord Cardinal, Distinguished Authorities, Dear Youngsters and Youths!
It is with great joy that I welcome all of you to this meeting dedicated to commitment to "Sister Nature," to use the name of the Foundation that organized it. -- more

11/11/2011
Pro-Abortion Speaker CANCELED at Siena College
www.tfpstudentaction.org
Pro-abortion speaker was canceled at Catholic Siena College after TFP Student Action launched its protest.
Thank you John and TFP Student Action!
Alex Majthenyi

11/11/2011
SCANDAL: Catholic Siena College Invites Radical Pro-Abortion Speaker
www.tfpstudentaction.org Inviting Widney Brown is not only detrimental to the reputation of Siena College, but is also an insult to every member of the 800th year old Franciscan Order.
Alex Majthenyi
Note: In a 2010 article published by The Nation, Brown says: "The Catholic Church… [is] not good on women's rights. They are horrible on gay rights. And frankly, if you look at what they say about HIV and condoms, they have blood on their hands."
http://www.thenation.com/article/who-speaks-human-rights

October 11, 2011 -- Liberty Counsel
Texas School District Fully Vindicates Christian Student After Wrongful Suspension
The Fort Worth Independent School District has issued a letter to Liberty Counsel fully vindicating high school freshman, Dakota Ary, who was given in-school suspension for telling another student that he believes homosexuality is wrong because of his Christian faith. -- more

October 4, 2011 -- upi.com
Schools bans rosary necklaces
A sixth grade Nebraska girl has been told she can't wear a rosary necklace to school because it has become a symbol of gang affiliation.
Elizabeth Carey, 12, said Fremont Public School officials informed her that a school dress code adopted last year bans rosary necklaces, KETV, Omaha, Neb., reported Tuesday.
School superintendent Steve Sexton said the policy is intended for student safety. more

October 4, 2011 -- VIS
The Role of Education in Enriching a Nation
On Sunday 2 October, Cardinal Secretary of State Tarcisio Bertone S.D.B. represented the Holy Father at the beatification of Antonia Maria Verna (1773-1838). The beatification ceremony was held in the cathedral of Ivrea, Italy.
In his homily Cardinal Bertone highlighted the present-day validity of the new blessed's educational ideas, which remind us of the vital need for schools in which the religious dimension "can be revealed in all its positive potential for full human development. This aspect is also very important for our time", he said. "Too often it seems that people are afraid to leave space for the religious dimension of life, which is inherent to the human heart, and would like to hide it in the private world of the individual. Such an attitude greatly impoverishes educational activity". more

October 3, 2011 -- VIS News
Pope to Bishops: Seek New Paths of Evangelisation
The Pope has exhorted European bishops "courageously to identify new missionary paths of evangelisation, especially in serving the new generations". These words are contained in a message signed by Cardinal Secretary of State Tarcisio Bertone S.D.B. and addressed to Cardinal Peter Erdo, president of the Council of European Episcopal Conferences (CCEE). The council, which is currently celebrating the fortieth anniversary of its foundation, is holding its plenary assembly in Tirana, Albania, from 29 September to 2 October.
Benedict XVI describes the CCEE as "a vital structure connecting the European episcopates, which for forty years has promoted fruitful collaboration in pastoral and ecumenical activities". -- more

September 23, 2011 -- catholicculture.org
Archbishop of US military ordinariate issues blunt warning against attacks on DOMA
Archbishop Timothy Broglio, who head the US military ordinariate, has joined New York's Archbishop Timothy Dolan in calling upon President Obama to "call off his administration's attack on the constitutionality of the 1997 Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), which defines marriage as between one man and one woman."
The effort to overturn DOMA, Archbishop Broglio charged, is an effort "to subvert the clear will of the majority" in the US. more

September 16, 2011 -- Fr. Frank Pavone
"What bothers me the most" - Fr. Pavone pens update from Amarillo
Well, friends, here in Amarillo I am working hard at my computer on various pro-life projects as I await further instructions from the diocese. Nothing yet, but being I take my "traveling office" with me to four states a week, there's never a "nothing to do" moment.
It's so encouraging to see so many people on the same page with me, loving and respecting the Church and, out of that very love and respect, supporting the pro-life mission we are all engaged in together. Amidst the many expressions of support, many say to me that they are praying for me "in this difficult time." more

September 9, 2011
Fr. Pavone suspended -- Bishop Zurek's letter
DIOCESE OF AMARILLO
Office of the Bishop
Your Eminences and your Excellencies:
I have decided to suspend Father Frank A. Pavone from public ministry outside of the Diocese of Amarillo to take effect on September 13, 2011. For an Indefinite period, I am withdrawing my permission to him to minister outside our Diocese and am calling him back to spend time in prayer and reflection. My decision is the result of deep concerns regarding his stewardship of the finances of the Priests for Life (PFL) organization. The PFL has become a business that is quite lucrative which provides Father Pavone with financial independence from all legitimate ecclesiastical oversight.

more
5 Madrid, Spain, August. 21, 2011 (Romereports.com)
Benedict XVI concluded his third visit to Spain with a ceremony at the Barajas Airport in Madrid.
He was sent off by vavrious Spanish authorities, including the King and Queen of Spain and Jose Bono, the president of the Congress of Deputies in Spain. The mini-Swiss Guard was also there to escort the pope during his last moments in the Spanish capital. more

AUG 17, 2011 -- catholicculture.org
Madrid cardinal invites ‘Benedict XVI generation’ to prayer, sacraments
Preaching before an estimated half million pilgrims in Madrid’s Plaza de Cibeles, Cardinal Antonio María Rouco Varela celebrated the opening Mass of World Youth Day.
In his lengthy homily, which paid tribute to Spain’s Christian roots and to Blessed John Paul II, the Madrid cardinal preached that “you are the generation of Benedict XVI. It is not the same as that of John Paul II. Your 'place in life' has its peculiarities. Your problems and life circumstances have changed. Globalization, new technologies in communication, the economic crisis, etc., has been a determining factor in your life sometimes for better and often times for worst.” more

AUG 16, 2011 -- lifesitenews.com
World Youth Day priests granted power to lift abortion excommunications
MADRID, Spain, August 16, 2011 (LifeSiteNews.com) – The Cardinal Archbishop of Madrid, Antonio Maria Rouco Varela, has granted all of the 2,000 priests attending World Youth Day this week the special power to the lift the excommunication and to grant absolution in confession to those who have committed the sin of abortion.
According to the Catholic Church’s Code of Canon Law, any person who procures an abortion is automatically excommunicated from the Church (can. 1398). This penalty – the worst penalty there is under canon law - can only be lifted by the pope and bishops, as well as priests who have been given special permission by a bishop. more

AUG 12, 2011 -- David Kerr -- CNSNews.com
Pope offers special indulgence to World Youth Day pilgrims
Pope Benedict XVI has declared that pilgrims to World Youth Day in Madrid will be able to obtain a special indulgence while attending the event.
“We are very happy because the Holy Father reinforces with this decision the penitential meaning of World Youth Day in Madrid,” communications director Rafa Rubio told CNA on Aug. 11. more

AUG 4, 2011 -- DAVID KERR (CNA)
Madrid 'Is Abuzz' With World Youth Day Excitement
Papal nuncio says the faith fest is exactly what young people — and Spain — needs.
When Pope Benedict XVI arrives in Spain for World Youth Day mid-August, he will find a country gripped by economic crisis. Despite that, the papal nuncio to Madrid says Spanish enthusiasm for the papal visit is undiminished.
“Spain is waiting for the Holy Father with great desire and hope that he will also assist a recovery on a spiritual level,” said Archbishop Renzo Fratini to Vatican Radio Aug. 4, adding that in Madrid itself “there is great expectation, and the whole city is abuzz.”
more

AUG 2, 2011 -- AgenziaFides -- Hong Kong
The largest WYD delegation from the diocese of Hong Kong leaving for Madrid
Over 800 young people and 21 priests from Hong Kong are leaving tomorrow, August 5, for Madrid to attend World Youth Day (WYD).
The participation in the next WYD has a larger delegation of young people compared to World Youth Day in Manila in 1995.
Hong Kong will be represented bymore than 200 young people from the diocese under the direction of the Diocesan Youth Pastoral Commission and will be joined by 600 other young people from 14 local youth communities, parishes, religious institutions, Catholic schools and ecclesial movements. more

Jul 28, 2011 -- By Lauren Funk -- C-FAM
Young Voices Speak the Truth about Human Life to United Nations
The enthusiastic voices of pro-life youth from around the world dominated the events of this week’s High Level Meeting on Youth at the United Nations, drawing the attention of UN bureaucrats and delegates alike.
“I keep running into all these pro-lifers, they're everywhere...in fact most of the people I've interviewed are pro-life,” a young woman working for UNFPA told a member of the International Youth Coalition as she interviewed conference attendees.
“We [members of the International Youth Coalition] were half, if not more, of the young people actually at the conference,” a participant from the International Youth Coalition told the Friday Fax. “And any people who spoke against us [and our message about human life] were adults, not youth.” more

Youth Protecting and Promoting Human Dignity
UN Side Event Sponsored by the Holy See Mission to the UN
When: July 25, 1-3PM, Holy Family Church Auditorium (315 East 47th St., New York, NY)
Who: Leah Darrow, Former America's Top Model contestant
Kristan Hawkins, Students for Life of America
Jeffrey Azize and Michael Campo, Actors, Grassroots Films (The Human Experience)
Megan Knighton, Catholic Near East Welfare Association more

July 20, 2011 -- Fides Service -- EUROPE/SPAIN
Madrid is preparing to welcome a million young people for WYD
Madrid (Agenzia Fides) - Major religious and cultural events organized for WYD (World Youth Day)by the Catholic Church that gather around the Pope thousands of young people from all continents this year will be held from August 16 to 21 in Madrid. According to the booking program "Forwardkeys", airline reservations for Madrid for WYD days increased by 150% compared to 2010. The Municipality of Madrid has estimated that 4,000 media from five continents will follow the event.
The Tourism Authority of Madrid is organizing three specific tours: "Madrid essential for World Youth Day " for people with disabilities, " Pontifical Madrid" and "The Churches in Madrid" in which you can visit the church-related buildings and the Papacy, convents and parishes as well. "World Youth Day 2011" and "Madrid for you, the ecclesiastical patrimony" are the titles of two welcome publications offered to pilgrims who report useful information about the capital. Fixed points concerning tourist information have been set up where specific information desks about WYD are found and new points will be created as this event draws near. more

June 25, 2011 -- Fides Service -- ASIA/INDIA-
5,000 young Catholics conclude the Year of youth, a delegation ready for WYD
Bangalore (Agenzia Fides) - They have finished the Year of Youth praying and committing themselves to "building a better world" and said they are ready for "World Youth Day" (WYD) in Madrid, which will be attended by a delegation of young Indians and that will be followed in real time, through mass media and new technologies, by thousands of young people who will remain at home. In this way, over 5,000 young Catholics of the Archdiocese of Bangalore in India concluded on Sunday, July 17 their special meeting, the final stage of a year dedicated to the youth of the local Church.
more

The Case of Farah Hatim
June 25, 2011 -- Fides Service -- Pakistan
An appeal on the case of Farah Hatim, the Catholic girl Islamized by force, will be presented to the UN
The Church is committed to the liberation of Farah, the Catholic girl forced to convert to Islam
"The Catholic Church in Pakistan will do everything possible to free Farah and return her to her family": this is what His Exc. Mgr. Andrew Francis, Bishop of Multan tells Fides, the diocese involved in the case of Farah Hatim, Catholic girl kidnapped in the city of Rahim Yar Khan (southern Punjab), forced to marry a Muslim man and convert to Islam.
please read

Archbishop Chaput warns about Catholic institutions losing religious identity
Denver, Colo., Jun 22, 2011 -- Marianne Medlin, CNA/EWTN News
Archbishop Charles J. Chaput of Denver warned Catholic social workers against the danger of Church institutions losing their religious identity amidst increasing hostility from the government and society.
"The more that Catholic universities or hospitals mute their religious identity; the more that Catholic social ministries weaken their religious character ... the less useful to the Gospel they become," he said.
Archbishop Chaput delivered a dual message to Catholic social workers this week, urging them to not let their Christian identity wane and also stressing that the government has no right to impede the work of Catholic institutions. please read

NLRB again denies religious character of a Catholic university
June 3, 2011 -- catholicculture.org
Last week a regional official of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) ruled that St. Xavier University in Chicago must allow adjunct professors to form a union. The ruling marked the second time this year that the NLRB has ruled that a Catholic institution of higher education lacks the distinctive religious character that would make it exempt from federal labor laws.
The NLRB ruling, following a similar decision involving Manhattan College earlier this year, underlines the complications that may arise when Catholic colleges and universities seek to increase their independence from Church authority. In making its ruling the NRLB noted that although St. Xavier College was founded by the Sisters of Mercy, the religious order now has only a small presence on campus and represents a minority on the governing board. There are no religious requirements for students, and the school’s bylaws, amended in 1993, do “not contain any reference to religion, God, Catholicism.” please read

June 3, 2011 -- Frank Newport -- Gallup
More than 9 in 10 Americans still say "yes" when asked the basic question "Do you believe in God?"; this is down only slightly from the 1940s, when Gallup first asked this question.
Despite the many changes that have rippled through American society over the last 6 ½ decades, belief in God as measured in this direct way has remained high and relatively stable. Gallup initially used this question wording in November 1944, when 96% said "yes." That percentage dropped to 94% in 1947, but increased to 98% in several Gallup surveys conducted in the 1950s and 1960s. Gallup stopped using this question format in the 1960s, before including it again in Gallup's May 5-8 survey this year. more

May 27, 2011 -- TFP Studentaction.org
When will the culture of death STOP for good?
When will the moral crisis shaking the very foundations of Western civilization at every level stop ravaging the family and harming the salvation of so many souls?
If you’re concerned about the future, you’ll find tremendous insight, a battle plan for victory, and profound answers in Prof. Plinio Correa de Oliveira’s groundbreaking work: Revolution and Counter-Revolution
"The theme of this study is of the highest importance for the time in which we live... I congratulate the author of this magnificent work."
-- Eugene Cardinal Tisserant more

May 27, 2011 -- ASIA/MYANMAR -- (Agenzia Fides)
PAKISTAN - Two Christian girls have been kidnapped and converted to Islam in Punjab
Faisalabad (Agenzia Fides) - The violence on Christian girls in central Punjab has caused two other victims: as reported by the Masihi Foundation to Fides- which deals with the protection of Christians in Pakistan - two Christian girls were kidnapped by a group of Muslims and forced to convert to Islam and get married. Rebbecca Masih and Saima Masih were kidnapped in Jhung the district of Faisalabad.
As explained by the two sisters` father, Rehmat Masih, a few days ago a wealthy local businessman, Muhammad Waseem, had previously warned that he wanted to marry the two girls, then threatened to kidnap them and convert them by force. Rehmat went to the police to file a complaint, but they did not take action. On Tuesday, May 24 the two girls were stopped while returning from the market, and some men kidnapped and threw them in a car owned by Waseem. more

May 19, 2011 -- -- Vatican City (CNS)
Youth, Protagonists of 45th World Day of Peace
According to a communique issued today by the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, "Educating Young People in Justice and Peace" is the theme that Benedict XVI has chosen for the 45th World Day of Peace this coming 1 January, 2012.
"The theme", reads the text, "engages an urgent need in the world today: to listen to and enhance the important role of new generations in the realization of the common good, and in the affirmation of a just and peaceful social order where fundamental human rights can be fully expressed and realized". more

May 13, 2011 -- VATICAN CITY (CNS)
Countdown to World Youth Day
Social networking, YouTube and song contest create buzz for Madrid event.
With fewer than 100 days to go, preparations for World Youth Day 2011 in Madrid are heating up and organizers are promising a “fiesta,” adding a Spanish flavor to the traditional opportunities for prayer, friendship, music and religious education. more

May 13, 2011 -- cathnewsindia
Rosary crusade for World Youth Day
Several organizations are coming together to promote a campaign to unite people worldwide in praying the rosary for the success of World Youth Day.
Launched by Family Rosary International, it is not only for the young but also for people of all ages, everywhere. more

May, 2011 -- nationalaffairs.com
Can Catholic Schools Be Saved?
In the fall of 2007, word quietly spread through the nation's capital that a dozen Catholic schools run by the Archdiocese of Washington were in dire financial straits.
.....In the first decade of this new century, more than 1,000 Catholic schools were shuttered; 174 Catholic schools closed or were consolidated during the 2009-10 school year alone. In the past ten years, the Archdiocese of Chicago has seen 31% of its students leave; the Archdiocese of New York and the Diocese of Brooklyn have lost 26% and 33% of their students, respectively, in the same period. Indeed, just this January, the New York archdiocese — which serves about 2.5 million Catholics — announced that it would close 27 schools, about one-eighth of its total. more

April 27, 2011 -- Colleen Carroll Campbell
The John Paul II Generation Grows Up
.....My colleagues, most of whom were Baby Boomers and self-professed secular humanists, were stumped by the Pope’s popularity. Why, they asked me, were young Catholics stampeding to see this frail, palsied pope who sermonized about sexual purity and self-sacrifice? Isn’t youth the time to rebel against religious authority? What’s with young people today, anyway? more

April 24, 2011 -- By TFP Student Action
Saint Peter Armengol: Hero of Confidence
Saint Peter Armengol is a model of confidence. His life inspires everyone who, amid the crisis of the modern world, needs special graces from Our Lady to remain completely faithful.
From Gangster to Convert more

April 17, 2011 -- (Zenit.org)
Spokesman Calls "Youcat" a Miracle for Youth
Says Faith Must Be Articulated in a Way That Answers Questions
The youth catechism just presented in Rome is a "great miracle" that seeks to help Christ speak to the young people of today, says Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi.
The director of the Vatican press office offered this evaluation of "Youcat" when he spoke about the little yellow book on the most recent episode of Vatican Television's "Octava Dies."
Youcat will be distributed to participants at World Youth Day this August in Madrid. more

April 15, 2011 -- catholicnewsagency (CNA/EWTN News)
Youth challenged to create new Renaissance with social media
The Secretary of the Vatican’s Pontifical Council on Social Communications says he wants to challenge young Catholics to “be geniuses and creators of a new Renaissance” using social media.
Monsignor Paul Tighe likened the blossoming of social media to the ancient architectural wonders created during the first Renaissance. “The magnificent churches of Rome were built during the first Renaissance using the new technology, art and engineering of the time. Young people can now do the same today using the wonderful new technologies at their disposal including new media,” he said in an April 15 interview with CNA. more

April 14, 2011 -- catholicculture.org
The most 'Catholic' university that isn't Catholic
Cardinal William Levada will celebrate Mass for the graduation ceremony at Ave Maria University in Florida on May 7.
The prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, the highest-ranking American prelate ever to serve in the Roman Curia: that’s a nice coup for a young, small Catholic school.
But wait: here’s the interesting thing. Ave Maria is not a Catholic university. more

April 13, 2011 -- Lahore (Agenzia Fides)
Christian girls, victims of forced conversions to Islam, rapes and forced marriages
In Pakistan forced conversions to Islam, rapes and forced marriages are on the rise. The victims are mostly Hindu and Christian girls, belonging to religious minorities, complain Fides local sources. This has been a worrying phenomenon for the Church in Pakistan for some time and that the Church is trying to address, looking for the cooperation of institutions but it is an uphill battle. “The Christian girls are the weakest and most vulnerable, because their communities are poor, defenceless and marginalized, therefore easily exposed to harassment and threats. more

April 14, 2011 -- ZENIT -- Chiara Santomiero
"Youcat" Answers Young People's Questions
Catechism for Youth Presented Wednesday in Rome
Leading up to its mass distribution at World Youth Day this August, the new catechism for young people, "Youcat," was presented Wednesday in Rome.
The president of the Pontifical Council for the Laity, Cardinal Stanis?aw Ry?ko, described it as a sort of "open path" to the adult version, the Catechism of the Catholic Church and its Compendium.
Youcat is hitting book stores in 17 languages, including Chinese. It was developed, in part, by a group of 50 young people, led by a team of German-speaking theologians, priests and religion teachers, overseen by the bishops of Austria. transcript of address

April 11, 2011 -- Archbishop Chaput
Politics and the Devil: Archbishop addresses Notre Dame students
Last Friday, April 8, Archbishop Chaput delivered the keynote address as part of the University of Notre Dame student-organized Right to Life lecture series. He encouraged the youth to be courageous in fighting for their beliefs, and to always remember what being Catholic really means.
Archdiocese of Denver
transcript of address

April 2011 -- By TFP Student Action
Stunning Holy Week Processions in Spain
Our Lady of Hope of Macarena Catholic Spain is matchless when it comes to Holy Week.
For 500 years the Spanish faithful have commemorated the Passion of Our Lord with marvelous public processions and ceremonies. The stunning pasos of Our Lord and Our Lady continue to inspire souls to this day.
Watch these 4 breathtaking videos

April 12, 2011 -- ZENIT -- Chiara Santomiero
Thousands of Youth Follow John Paul II Pilgrimage
80 Disabled Young People Join Trip to Poland
ROME, APRIL 12, 2011 (Zenit.org).- On Friday, thousands of youth began a pilgrimage in Krakow, Poland, to keep a promise and walk in the footsteps of John Paul II.
The first stage of the pilgrimage organized by UNITALSI (the National Italian Union for Transporting the Sick to Lourdes and International Shrines) was the Marian shrine of Czestochowa. There they left a cross that last year they had placed on the Pope's tomb in Rome to stress their commitment to go to his land. more

April 11, 2011 -- catholicculture.org
150 US Catholic schools have links to Planned Parenthood
At least 150 Catholic colleges and universities in the US have provided some support for Planned Parenthood, the Cardinal Newman Society has disclosed.
In a detailed new report, the Cardinal Newman Society shows how Catholic schools have given Planned Parenthood opportunities to provide counseling and referrals, to recruit interns and offer fellows, to participate in campus events, and to make presentations to student audiences.
The Cardinal Newman Society shows connections between Planned Parenthood and such prominent Catholic institutions as Notre Dame, Georgetown, Boston College, Marquette, and many others. more
The report

April 6, 2011 -- zenit.org
Benedict XVI Says Youth Console Him
VATICAN CITY, APRIL 6, 2011 (Zenit.org).- Benedict XVI today told young people that they always bring him consolation and hope, since they are in the springtime of life.
The Pope shared this confidence with youth at the end of today's general audience. He concluded his weekly address with his traditional greeting to youth, the sick and newlyweds.
"Dear young people, to meet you is always for me a motive of consolation and hope, because your age is the springtime of life," he said. "Be able to respond to the love that God has for you." more

April 1, 2011 -- by Steve Weatherbe
College Pro-Life Group Fights Back
Sues Canadian University for Limiting Its Message on Campus
OTTAWA — When members of Lifeline, a small but committed pro-life club at Carleton University, tried to put up a pro-life display, university security and police officers arrested them.
The incident took place last October, when five members of the group were hauled away in handcuffs after their attempt to display the Genocide Awareness Project in a prominent campus quadrangle at the Ottawa university.
Now, two of the five students facing trespassing charges have sued the university and several staff for $200,000 Canadian. Lifeline’s president, Ruth Lobo, and treasurer, John McLeod, both 22, claim that the school and its staff were wrong to arrest them, broke their own policies and violated the Canadian constitution. more

The Sky is Falling! Really?
by Bishop Thomas J. Tobin -- March 31, 2011
"What are you doing?" said the farmer to the sparrow. "I heard that the sky is falling and I want to do my best to hold it up," responded the little bird. "That's ridiculous," declared the farmer. "First of all, the sky isn't falling . . . And secondly, even if it is, your tiny feet won't help very much." "Well," said the sparrow with determination, "One does what one can." Must read!

Vatican City, 31 Mar. 2011 (VIS)
Pope Benedict XVI's Prayer Intensions for April
Pope Benedict's general prayer intention for April is: "That through its compelling preaching of the Gospel, the Church may give young people new reasons for life and hope".
His mission intention is: "That by proclamation of the Gospel and the witness of their lives, missionaries may bring Christ to those who do not yet know Him".
BXVI-PRAYER INTENTIONS/ VIS 20110331

Posted March 6, 2011
Archbishop Chaput:
Luke Warm Christianity Is A Convient Form Of Paganism!
Addressing a gathering of European church officials on March 4, Archbishop Charles J. Chaput of Denver warned that many contemporary Christians have reduced their faith to a convenient "form of paganism," which cannot compete with the widespread "idolatry" of modern consumer culture.
"Most of the young men I meet hunger for examples of manliness, confidence, courage and faith," Archbishop Chaput noted. "Cardinal Lustiger's personal story is itself a catechesis - an invitation to pursue God heroically." more

posted March 6, 2011
Message Of His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI
For The 45th World Communications Day -- June 5, 2011
Truth, Proclamation and Authenticity of Life in the Digital Age
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
On the occasion of the 45th World Day of Social Communications, I would like to share some reflections that are motivated by a phenomenon characteristic of our age: the emergence of the internet as a network for communication. It is an ever more commonly held opinion that, just as the Industrial Revolution in its day brought about a profound transformation in society by the modifications it introduced into the cycles of production and the lives of workers, so today the radical changes taking place in communications are guiding significant cultural and social developments. more

March 1, 2011
Hundreds of Catholic schools have been and will be closed.
Saint Peter's High School in New York is a good example:
A Proud Tradition: A Rich Future
A college preparatory school located in the historic preservation district of Saint George in Staten Island, New York, Saint Peter's High School for Girls is just minutes away from the Staten Island Ferry and the main transportation hub on Staten Island. more

February 28, 2011 -- By TFP Student Action
SHOCKER: Catholic College Helps Planned Parenthood
Should Catholic universities aid Planned Parenthood and other pro-abortion groups? The answer is obviously NO. However, Seattle University – a Catholic institution – offers students the option of interning for Planned Parenthood of Western Washington more

February 24, 2011 --
Government Won’t Support Defense of Marriage Act Anymore
U.S. bishops and traditional-marriage advocates criticize Obama administration’s decision.
WASHINGTON (CNS) — The U.S. bishops’ Office of General Counsel said the Obama administration’s decision to no longer support the Defense of Marriage Act in legal challenges ahead “represents an abdication” of its “constitutional obligation to ensure that laws of the United States are faithfully executed.” more

February 24, 2011 -- Terrence McKeegan, J.D. (C-FAM)
UN Promotes Prostitution as Harm Reduction
A United Nations agency is actively funding the full legalization of prostitution with the support of UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon. The agency even partnered with a prostitution advocacy group to co-chair a UN advisory group on HIV and "sex work."
UNAIDS, a joint program of the major UN agencies, is promoting “sex work” programs under the guise of harm reduction in combating HIV/AIDS and preventing discrimination against vulnerable groups.
One UNAIDS-funded organization is the Network of Sex Work Projects (NSWP). The NSWP is the featured website on the controversial Interagency Youth Working Group, a US-funded project. The NSWP is described as an “alliance of sex workers and organizations that provide services to sex workers and promote sex workers' health and human rights.” more

February 21, 2011 -- By TFP Student Action
Catholic College to Host Same-Sex "Marriage" Activist
Canisius College – a Jesuit institution – has invited an open homosexual activist, Dustin Lance Black, to talk about “Leadership for Equal Rights: GLBT Equality.” According to the college’s web site, the lecture is scheduled on March 10 as part of a Leadership Series program. more

February 17, 2011 -- Lauren Funk -- (C-FAM)
Controversial Document Guides Plans for UN Youth Conference
The same controversial agenda that guided the chaotic youth conference last summer in Leon, Mexico will inspire the UN’s World Youth Conference, which is now scheduled for this July at UN Headquarters in New York City.
This agenda, laid out in the World Program of Action for Youth (WPAY), promotes youth autonomy and grants them new “rights”. One UN legal expert called the document a “Cairo for youth,” since it calls on states to assign high priority to providing sexual and reproductive health services, sexual education outside the purview of the parents, and curriculum reforms to eradicate the perpetuation of “traditional female roles.” more

January 23, 2011 -- Anna Maria Basquez -- archden.org
1,300 college Catholics challenged: Give everything away, build God’s kingdom
Jonathan Reyes at FOCUSKeynote speaker Jonathan Reyes challenged upwards of 1,300 FOCUS ministry students and graduates nationwide Jan. 15 to reject motivations for self-gratification and instead to try something else: give everything you have away.
FOCUS, an acronym for the Fellowship of Catholic University Students, is a fast-growing campus ministry organization founded a dozen years ago that offers weekly Bible studies and one-on-one mentoring with student leaders. more

January 23, 2011 -- Catholic World Report -- Jim Graves
Bishop Robert Vasa on pro-abortion Catholics, the Catholic Campaign for Human Development, and what authentic renewal of the Church will look like
Bishop Vasa, age 59, has been outspoken in his defense of Catholic doctrine and moral teachings, particularly related to the life issues. He made news recently when he declared that a bishop’s authority in his own diocese supersedes that of the national bishops’ conference, stating, “It is easy to forget that the conference is the vehicle to assist bishops in cooperating with each other and not a separate regulatory commission.” He added, “there may also be an unfortunate tendency on the part of bishops to abdicate to the conference a portion of their episcopal role and duty.” more
Thank you Bishop Vasa for defending our Faith.

January 20, 2011 -- lisagraas.com
Ralph McCloud, Head of CCHD, Worked Officially for a Pro-Abortion Candidate, Document Reveals
According to a document revealed by Creative Minority Report (CMR), we now have definitive proof that the pro-abortion mindset dwells even at the highest levels of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. The document is a public campaign finance report for Planned Parenthood-endorsed pro-abortion candidate Wendy Davis listing Ralph McCloud as campaign treasurer during his first year as the Director of the Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD).
The Catholic Church in America has been suffering from a profound division over abortion on the question of whether or not Catholics — the “biggest ‘swing faith’ in the country” — should ignore the issue when they go to the polls. While the bishops have maintained in varying degrees that abortion is not a negotiable issue for Catholics, a position born out in their opposition to Obamacare based solely on abortion, the revelation that the head of CCHD was an official in the campaign of a pro-abortion candidate shows the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops‘ (USCCB) failure on a mind-boggling level to be an organization that consistently defends life and dignity. more

January 13, 2011 -- C-FAM -- Lauren Funk
US State Department Steps Up Promotion of Homosexual Agenda
The Obama administration has made it repeatedly clear that one of their priorities is the promotion of the homosexual agenda both in the US and around the world. The latest salvo in this campaign is the just-announced policy that the applications for Consular Reports of Birth Abroad and passports would use the designations of “Parent 1” and “Parent 2,” instead of “Mother” and “Father.”
The State Department said, “The improvements are being made to provide a gender neutral description of a child’s parents and in recognition of different types of families.” Homosexual activists celebrated the change. Such groups have been pushing for the gender neutralization of passport applications and other official document for years, more

January 11, 2011 -- CNA/EWTN News
Archbishop Chaput remembers deep Catholic faith of judge killed in Ariz. shooting
Archbishop Charles Chaput of Denver expressed anguish over the recent Arizona shooting that left 6 dead and over a dozen wounded, noting particularly the life and deep Catholic faith of victim Judge John Roll. more

January 7, 2011 -- ncregister.com
Saving Big Apple Babies
Archbishop Dolan and other pro-lifers pledge to help pregnant women in need.
In response to recent statistics revealing that 41% of pregnancies in New York City in 2009 ended in abortion, New York Archbishop Timothy Dolan reiterated the pledge of his predecessors to help any pregnant woman in need. more

Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Olmsted, Keehan and Moral Authority
"The Catholic Health Association has once again found itself at odds with Church authority- this time, over Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted's decision to revoke the Catholic status of a hospital that admitted to serious ethics violations, including a highly-publicized abortion.
... In other words, what we have here is rot and decay, corruption and collusion. We have a Church in America that has become less about truth and more about Progressivism and Social Justice, both offsprings of the Marxist ideology condemned by every Pope since Pius IX. more

Dec 29, 2010 -- courierpostonline.com
ACLU launches war on Catholic hospitals
Last Wednesday, the American Civil Liberties Union sent a letter to federal health officials urging the government to force Catholic hospitals in the United States to perform abortions in violation of their core moral commitment to protecting the lives of the unborn. They're counting on sympathetic Obama rationing czar Donald Berwick to dictate which religious principles hospital operators can and cannot follow.
The ACLU reiterated its call for a federal probe -- read: fishing expedition -- of Catholic hospitals nationwide that refuse to provide "emergency" contraception and abortions to women. In practice, of course, every request for abortion is an "emergency" to the left. more


Pro Choice = Pro Abortion

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March of the Survivors
Polls show that young people are more pro-life than adults. As one speaker says, "The pro-life movement is getting younger and younger. Video

Gianna Jessen
Gianna wasn't supposed to be here. Her frightened, 17-year-old mother went to an abortion clinic to end her baby's life.
But, miraculously, the procedure failed and sent Gianna's mother into labor; a few minutes later, a fragile baby girl made her way into the world. The remarkable story of Gianna's survival is both inspirational and unforgettable.