catholicnews.org

A Lenten Apology

2010-03-04T16:08:00.001-08:00

Dear Readers,Since it is Lent, I thought it would be a good time to post a public apology to the writer Gabriel Garnica. Some of you may remember my "Ashes Favorite Sacrament, According to ABC/Washington Post Poll." The purpose of the article was to underscore the fact that many Catholics do not know what the Sacraments are. I attempted to do this by filling my article with "quotes" by invented

Update

2008-08-24T12:11:00.000-07:00

Hello dear readers,I apologize for being away from the blog and my other 38 apostolates for so long. Just to let you know, the baby and I are doing fine. William weighed 9 lbs 14 oz. In our moments of mother and baby bonding, I have been reading the portions of the Summa Theologica to William. His cooing tells me he really gets it. Anyway, my husband and I believe our children may be the keys to

Quick note

2008-06-29T21:00:00.000-07:00

This Wednesday (July 2) in the a.m. I am scheduled to deliver son No.2. While the first son definitely gave me "Pope vibes," this one is feeling a little more like a future Nobel Peace Prize Laureate in Literature. Please keep me and the little bundle in your prayers on Wednesday.God bless,MM & William Walker Martin

Maureen's Mailbag

2008-05-26T18:11:00.000-07:00

As I mentioned earlier, blog posting will be rather light for some time. To help you get by, though, here are a couple of letters from readers who understand what this apostolate is all about and support me and my great work. -- MMDear Maureen,I stumbled across your blog this morning and it just had me laughing out loud. In fact, I was going to post a comment about Chesterton (the patron saint of

My stuff is up at Inside Catholic today

2008-05-24T13:43:00.000-07:00

Three of my stories are up today at Inside Catholic. They will be familiar to regular readers of this blog.As I mentioned before, you should add Inside Catholic to your blogroll, too, so you can keep up with their cover stories, as well as the goings-on at the Inside blog everyday.For my part, blogging will be light for quite awhile. If you add me to your Google or Yahoo! homepage, however, you

Woman Who Left Catholic Church Over Sex Scandal Actually Just Wanted to Sleep In

2008-05-17T19:23:00.000-07:00

Photo courtesy of quickandsimple.comNeighbors are becoming disenchanted with Sandy Shaw's activism against the Catholic Church.BOISE, IDAHO – Neighbors who hailed an area woman for leaving the Catholic Church over the sex abuse scandal are coming to grips with the fact that she just wanted more time to sleep and run errands.Sandy Shaw, a data entry technician for Global Technologies, Inc. in

Gay Marriage Threat to Those Traditionally Married, Multiple Times

2008-05-17T19:16:00.000-07:00

Photo courtesy of engagement rings of LondonGay marriage will wreak havoc on traditional marriage, say those who have been married and divorced.COLUMBIA, SC. – The California Supreme Court’s recent decision to overturn the ban on gay marriage is a threat to traditional marriage, say those who have been married multiple times.Miles Stewart, a Columbia attorney who is preparing to take his third

Light blogging

2008-05-13T18:12:00.000-07:00

Hello, dear readers...Between being almost eight-months-pregnant and heavily involved in church work, I won't be posting a whole lot over the next few days. (I have a lot of work to do around here involving Dreft.) You have my permission, though, to read other blogs for news during this time.God bless,MaureenP.S. The nuns say, 'hello!'

My post is up at "Stuff Catholics Like"

2008-05-08T17:20:00.000-07:00

It may be hard for you to believe, but I have actually found the time to squeeze a new apostolate into my already busy life. In addition to mentoring a new cantor at church and teaching an advent wreath making class at Michael's (evangelism is very important, as you know), I am writing posts for "Stuff Catholics Like," a new blog. These won't be news stories, but informative posts designed to

McCain Campaign Staffers Debate Whether Future Wars Should Be Waged Against ‘Whoever’ or ‘Whomever’

2008-05-05T07:56:00.000-07:00

Photo courtesy ABC newsMcCain at a recent campaign rally.WASHINGTON, D.C. –-John McCain campaign staffers debated how to best warn the nations of the world of their impending demise in a grammatically correct way during a breakfast meeting at campaign headquarters yesterday.“Could someone please just tell me whether President McCain will go to war with whoever or whomever?”John Jenkins, head

Woman’s Call to Priesthood Actually a Raging Case of OCD

2008-04-27T13:27:00.000-07:00

Photo courtesy of Hobbyistsoftware.comLeonora Simmons recently came to terms with the fact that her 'vocation' was actually an anxiety disorder.LOS ANGELES – What appeared to one woman to be a lifelong – and thwarted -- call to the Catholic priesthood has actually turned out to be an undiagnosed case of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD.)“Since the age of five I felt called to the Roman Catholic

Read my news stories today at Inside Catholic

2008-04-27T07:31:00.000-07:00

Courtesy of Dan LaceyOnce again, Inside Catholic is supporting my apostolate and bringing you the news no one else will. An order of nuns has been taking care of my family while I worked on these stories. The nuns and my family say, "hello." Read the stories now at Inside Catholic.While you are at it, you should add Inside Catholic to your blogroll, too, so you can keep up with their blog

The Perks of Faith-based Marketing

2008-04-24T00:28:00.000-07:00

Photo courtesy of campusprogress.orgSpecial to catholicnews.org“I suspect the Pope’s immigration comments may have less to do with spreading the gospel than they do about recruiting new members of the church…This isn’t preaching it is ‘faith based’ marketing,” Rep. Tom Tancredo, Colorado--Fr. Gaenswein, ask the marketing group to come in now.--Yes, your holiness. (exits the room)(Three American

Light posting

2008-04-21T14:34:00.000-07:00

Hi catholicnews.org readers,I just wanted to let you know that there will be light blogging going on here for a few days. Advent wreath-making classes and other church activities have me very busy. However, I found an order of nuns who have agreed to help take care of my husband, child and dog so I can focus on what is really important. In the meantime, you have my permission to check other

News Briefs

2008-04-17T18:46:00.000-07:00

Catholics in Washington D.C. and New York City ask the Holy Father to offer up his suffering for them and their intentions.Papal onlookers beg Pope to ‘offer up’ poor musical selections from Papal visit for themWASHINGTON, D.C. -- Patti Renfroe said she knows that when the Holy Father hears “One Bread, One Body” played this week during his historical trip to the United States, it has to hurt his

Religious Order Continues to Blend In, Make No Real Difference in Community

2008-04-13T17:59:00.000-07:00

Photo courtesy of curious mapsThings haven’t changed much in Spanish Fort over the years, thanks to the Holy Cross Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament.SPANISH FORT, ALA. – Holy Cross Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament, a religious order that has existed in Spanish Fort for over 25 years, has not changed the community for better or worse in any way during that time.Yesterday, in honor of their

Abortion Providers, Big Apple Advertising Firm to Launch $10 Million Campaign to Combat Anti-Choice Messages

2008-04-07T06:18:00.000-07:00

Photo courtesy of Sydney Morning HeraldThe new ad campaign stresses the fact that abortion clinics even exceed the sanitation requirements of businesses such as nail salons.NEW YORK – The American Association of Abortion Providers (AAAP) and Manhattan’s J. Arthur Bosch Agency are kicking off a $10 million campaign this month to counteract the nation’s anti-choice propaganda machine.The campaign,

More News You Might Believe

2008-04-01T11:50:00.000-07:00

courtesy 1000cranes.comAs hard as it might be to believe, in addition to being a devoted wife, mother, dog owner, advent wreath making instructor at my local parish, and light to the masses, I have found the time to write a few more breaking news stories. Read them now at Inside Catholic. or continue to be an in-the-dark-Catholic.Maureen

U.S. Kills Al Qaeda’s No. 2 Leader for 89th Time

2008-03-31T05:48:00.000-07:00

Another No. 2 leader has reportedly been killed, according to U.S. Officials.WASHINGTON, D.C. – For the 89th time, the U.S. has reportedly killed Al Qaeda’s No. 2 leader, U.S. officials announced today.A CIA airstrike occurred late Saturday evening in the remote mountains of Afghanistan, northeast of Ghanzi, reportedly killing No. 2 Al Qaeda leader Aamir al-Ackdar. Al-Ackdar’s body has not been

Multimillion Dollar Class Action Suit Leveled Against California Archdiocese

2008-03-19T19:47:00.000-07:00

‘Wedding Guests Who Attended Ceremonies Where Marriages Later Annulled Want Their Gifts Back’Wedding Bliss: Plaintiffs says they want married couples to work harder or send back their gifts.VESTAVIA HILLS, CALIF.– In a first-of-its-kind class action law suit, a group of plaintiffs have filed suit against the Archdiocese of Vestavia in California for “blatant disregard for the sacrament of

Disbelief in Jesus Not a Hindrance to Being a Faithful Christian, Say Catholics

2008-03-17T18:11:00.000-07:00

Belief in Jesus no longer necessary, say many Catholics.NEW YORK – Belief in Jesus Christ is not a prerequisite to being a committed Christian, according to a majority of Roman Catholics in a new TIME/CNN news poll.In the poll, which was released yesterday, 86 percent of Roman Catholics stated that faith in Christ is “not necessary” to living a faithful Christian life or being a “good” Christian.

For Third Year, "Ashes" Named Favorite Catholic Sacrament

2006-03-02T15:35:00.000-08:00

For the third year, ashes comes in tops as favorite Catholic sacrament.BOSTON -- For the third year in a row, the ashes received during the Ash Wednesday service was listed in an ABC-News/Washington Post poll as most Roman Catholic's favorite sacrament, topping both communion and baptism."There is just something about receiving those ashes that makes me feel, well alive," said Katie Stanbury, a

Mayor Ray Nagin Gives Up New Orleans for Lent

2006-02-28T17:07:00.000-08:00

New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin Announces His Lent Plans to a Drunken Crowd.NEW ORLEANS -- While Christians across the world give up chocolate, alcohol and coffee for Lent, Mayor Ray Nagin of New Orleans announced today he made the painful decision to give up the entire City of New Orleans for 40 days or so."I love New Orleans and I love thinking about this city," said Nagin. "So, as an act of

Indiana Man Miffed $25 Donation Only Garners Downspout

2006-02-26T14:51:00.000-08:00

'The UAE donates $100 million to Katrina Aid and gets our ports, and all I get is this?'For his $25 donation, Harold Moore was given a downspout somewhere in Pakistan.INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA-- An Indiana man said he is angry that his $25 donation to earthquake relief in Pakistan qualifies him for a downspout, while the UAE "gets the whole store" for their $100 million donation to Hurricane Katrina

White House Hires UAE Firm to Spy on Catholic Worker Volunteers, Other Threats to Terror

2006-02-22T15:29:00.000-08:00

Dubai Hearts America employees are coming to a Catholic Worker House near you.WASHINGTON, D.C. -- In a news conference today, President Bush said he just learned that his administration hired a UAE firm last week to spy on Catholic Worker volunteers and other groups, but said the action was necessary to fight the war on terror and reward Middle Eastern allies."I learned about the hiring this

Out of Respect for Islam, CNN to Halt Coverage of Islamic Countries, Events

2006-02-19T15:07:00.000-08:00

ATLANTA -- Out of Respect for the religion of Islam, CNN President Jonathan N. Klein announced today that the network will no longer air content that is offensive to the religion's followers, including any other material that distorts the image of the "religion of peace.""Two weeks ago, we made the maverick decision not to air the Mohammed cartoons -- not because all of us in Atlanta are afraid

News Briefs

2006-02-17T16:41:00.000-08:00

Homeschooling Family Blows Off Lit Exam for Toddler's Birthday PartyEL PASO, TEXAS -- Anthony Richard may have made an F on his literature final, but said it was worth it to see the look on his four-year-old brother's face when he blew out his birthday candles."Yeah, it was pretty cool," said Richard, 14. "But then again, it was kind of like last year," he said of the bash.Richard and his seven

Pregnant Woman Awarded '518 Dads' from Catholic Hospital That Refused Her Morning After Pill

2006-02-15T11:22:00.000-08:00

Pictured, a few of Strong's new 'dads.'BIRMINGHAM, ALA. -- Meredith Strong won a landmark parental support award from Our Lady of the Angels Catholic Hospital last week after they refused to give her a morning after pill when she discovered she was pregnant six months ago.As part of the court order, the 518 staff members of the hospital are required to be "surrogate fathers" to her unborn child.

Group Presses Vatican for Non-Catholic Canonized Saints

2006-02-15T11:09:00.000-08:00

How would the Vatican feel about Sts. John and George?LOS ANGELES -- You've heard of St. Paul and St. Patrick, but what about St. John Lennon and St. James Dean? A Los Angeles-based group said it hopes to break the Vatican's tight grip on who gets to be a saint and who doesn't.Our Cause founder James Dominic said he started the group so other deserving people will finally get recognition. "It is

Emails from my one Mormon fan

2006-02-12T13:38:00.000-08:00

Hi, Maureen. My name is Cliff Mayes and I'm a professor of educational psychology at BYU. I just wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed your "Tanzanian Paper" article. It was hilarious! I'm forwarding the address of the "article" on to many of my colleagues here at Brigham Young. Keep up the good work! Mormons, like Catholics, believing that we have the "true" church, don't laugh at ourselves

Tanzanian Paper Publishes Cartoons Mocking Mormon Tabernacle Choir, Genealogy Service

2006-02-08T12:02:00.000-08:00

Latter Day Saints React With 'Pouting', Coffee DrinkingSome LDS members say cartoons "aren't nice."DAR-ES-SALAAM, TANZANIA -- Latter Day Saints (LDS) across the world have reacted with mild irritation in response to a Tanzanian's newspaper editor's decision to run cartoons mocking the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints' well-known genealogy service."This

The American Association of Abortion Providers (AAAP) Gears Up for Weekend in Miami

2006-01-23T11:53:00.000-08:00

AAAP to Enjoy Weekend of Fun, Fellowship and Professional Development in Miami.In honor of the 33rd anniversary of Roe v. Wade, here is a story catholicnews covered last year.MIAMI -- The American Association of Abortion Providers (AAAP) is getting ready to enjoy some fun, sun, networking,and professional development when the 5th Annual Summer Convention kicks off, Aug. 1, at the Grande Pointe

Hasbro Launches New Jolie-Pitt World Domination! Game

2006-01-13T11:22:00.000-08:00

Live Vicariously Through Jolie and Conquer the WorldNEW YORK -- Buy children away from hungry Third World mothers, rack up honorary citizenships from other lands, and be nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize just for having great hair with Hasbro's exciting new game: Jolie-Pitt World Domination! The new computer game, inspired and partly developed by Hollywood supercouple Angelina Jolie and Brad

Bush Adminstration Wiretapped Catholic Masses without Warrants

2006-01-10T16:08:00.000-08:00

"Peace Be with You" Exchanges Viewed as "Troubling"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- President George W. Bush today admitted to circumventing the FISA (Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act) court in order to wiretap Catholic Churches, listen in on masses, and "smoke out" terrorists who might harm American interests."Yes, I had Catholic Churches wiretapped without warrants, and as Commander-in-Chief, I will

Weird Meme

2006-01-10T13:58:00.000-08:00

Generally, I don't do the meme thing, as I feel it could potentially chip away at my "bigger-than-life persona." However, since my politically progressive Anglican blogger friend from the Great White North, Cycles, tagged me, I thought I would give it a whirl:So...here are five weird things about me....1)Sometimes when I get stressed out or really into a project, I will squeeze my face.Yeah,

Welcome, Crisis Readers!

2005-12-31T11:05:00.000-08:00

If you found your way to catholicnews.org via the January issue of Crisis Magazine, welcome to the blog! It looks like my news articles (under the banner "The Catholic Enquirer") are going to be featured in the magazine for the next few months. So, take a look around the place. And, if you have any questions on Catholicism, ask away, because I have professional credentials (i.e., RCIA instructor

Jane Fonda To Celebrate 50th Year Wedding Anniversary

2005-12-29T09:23:00.000-08:00

The following is a special guest post from Truemarriage.net.Jane Fonda (left) is being supported in her latest form of activism by actress and "Monster-in-Law" co-star Jennifer Lopez. by Truemarriage.net,special to catholicnews.orgBOCA RATON, FLA. -- Jane Fonda will celebrate her 50th wedding anniversary on March 1 at the Sempre Aurum

St. John the Baptist, Prophets Killed for Calumny, Rash Judgment, Say Catholic Scholars

2005-12-13T06:29:00.000-08:00

JERUSALEM -- Although he has been seen for centuries as a wise man and prophet, St. John the Baptist may have in reality been guilty of calumny, detraction and rash judgment when he called King Herod "a sinner," according to two Catholic scholars."According to my research, St. John the Baptist was beheaded because of the shame and scandal he brought King Herrod and his family," said Fr. Peter

Pope Partial to Catholics, Say Most Americans in New Poll

2005-11-29T16:54:00.000-08:00

Does Pope Benedict Play Favorites?ALLENTOWN, PA. -- Could the Holy Father have a soft spot for Catholics? That is the belief of the majority of Americans surveyed in a new TIME Magazine/CNN poll released today.In the poll, of 3,058 people surveyed, 95 percent of respondents said they believed Pope Benedict XVI is "partial to those of the Catholic faith", and 83 percent of those surveyed said they

Lemonade Stand Audited After Youth Makes Political Statement

2005-11-14T19:54:00.000-08:00

MEMPHIS, TENN. -- According to Patrick Davis, his lemonade stand was audited by the IRS (Internal Revenue Service) today, as the result of an anti-war statement he made last week.Davis, 8, said that as he made change to a customer last week, he said mentioned that he "misses his dad a lot," and "hates this stupid war." A few days later, IRS agents raided the lemonade stand, and demanded to see

News Briefs

2005-11-09T15:19:00.000-08:00

Dowd's Technorati Ranking Soars as Bloggers Discuss Her Irrelevance Dowd: A rise in irrelevanceNEW YORK -- Maureen Dowd's Technorati search ranking soared to No. 4 this week as bloggers feverishly posted reviews of her new book, Are Men Necessary?, searched for and read others' reviews, and discussed her irrelevance."She's just a well-trained, albeit, clever monkey," wrote Dennis Wright, the

Email of the Day

2005-11-09T12:40:00.000-08:00

From: "Charles de Marcini" nbc_fr_charlie@hotmail.comTo: maureenscoolblog@yahoo.comSubject: Now you have my email addressDate: Nov 9, 2005Dear Maureen,Thank you for plugging my new reality show on your blog. Since your CatholicNews Org post went up, the show's ratings have soared and my email volume also increased so I've had to upgrade from a free hotmale, er hotmail, account to a

Priest Offers Communion to Unrepentant Faithful

2005-11-06T18:37:00.000-08:00

Father Ryan consecrates the bread and wine on this light and easy-to-transport card table.HOUSTON -- As a priest, Father Sean Ryan gives hope to the hurting, comfort to the suffering, and the sacraments to the Catholic Church's unrepentant faithful."I get a bit embarrassed when people try to deify me," said Ryan. "The folks I minister to are depressed because the Church - or their own

Citizen Journalist Roll Updates

2005-11-03T07:07:00.000-08:00

OK, I have finally broken away from my chorus practice to bring you my updated citizen journalist list. I have added blogs of some frequent visitors to this blog: Maggie, Amy, Rick and Penni. In addition, I have added links to bloggers who have been very generous in linking to my breaking news stories. Anyway, I need to make back like a ninja to the music makin.'God bless, Maureen

Homeschooler Pans Cheney's Chief-of-Staff Pick

2005-11-01T08:02:00.000-08:00

RALEIGH, NC -- Things went from bad to worse for Vice President Dick Cheney today when a North Carolina homeschooler scoffed at his decision to replace indicted chief-of-staff Lewis "Scooter" Libby with David Addington, the vice president's legal counsel."I can't believe he went for one of his cronies," said Jonathan Carter, a 10-year-old homeschooler, who posted a scathing indictment of the

I am still on the beat

2005-10-31T08:34:00.000-08:00

Just call me Nellie Bly with an advent wreath. In fact, do call me that. I like it.I just wanted to let you know I am hard at work, bringing you the latest news in the Catholic realm. However, my various other apostolates (I've just signed on to train the Church greeters! Plus, I am offering an advent -wreath making class via correspondence course!) are also keeping me really busy today. Look

News Briefs

2005-10-27T06:57:00.000-07:00

Local Woman Reflects on 'the Movement'SEATTLE -- Since she was only 9 at the time, Tatem Murphy had no idea her "extracurricular activity" would be viewed as a major stand against injustice, cruelty and hatred when she became the country's first female altar server."Um, at the time, I didn't think it was that big a deal," said Murphy. "I just wanted to do it because my brother dared me, but after

New Apostolate Steps in Where Parents Leave Off

2005-10-23T18:22:00.000-07:00

Children at Ufamilia update donor bases in their spare time. PROVIDENCE, R.I. -- As more Catholic parents get involved in Church ministry and apostolates, some of their children are getting a special dose of family love, thanks to a new apostolate created recently in Rhode Island.Ufamilia, which means "Happy Family" in Latin, was created to fill the void in cases where families have broken down

NBC to Air New Reality Show Featuring 'Ex-Priest' This Fall

2005-10-18T20:26:00.000-07:00

New reality series takes a look at man's life after he leaves priesthood. PHILADEPHIA -- Move over Paris and Nicole, network TV is banking on a new reality series which will chronicle the life of an 'ex-priest' who is entering the dating world and a new career field at the same time. "Father Charlie?" stars Charles de Marcini, 38, a recently laicized Catholic priest living in Philadelphia. In the

Getting Back to My Apostolate

2005-10-17T18:07:00.000-07:00

Well, my husband told me today that I was spending too much time with him and not enough time on my apostolates (this blog and my advent wreath making classes.) "Maureen," he said. "You are a spiritual star in the Blogosphere. You are a celebrity now. You have a responsibility to your followers. People's very souls may be in jeopardy if you don't start blogging again. How will people ever learn

Baton Rouge Residents Secretly Pleased Over New Orleans' Demise

2005-09-09T08:05:00.000-07:00

BR to world: Give us a try. We have crime and substandard housing, too. BATON ROUGE, LA. -- As thousands of Hurricane Katrina refugees leave New Orleans, and businesses there close up shop forever, residents of Baton Rouge are admitting privately they are happy to finally get some attention."I wouldn't want anybody to know I feel this way, but I gotta say it's about time," said Derby Fontenot,

This Side of Jordan

2005-09-07T15:02:00.000-07:00

I received my review copy of This Side of Jordan by Bill Kassel in the mail today. Tonight, after I go to Michael's for some much-needed wire ribbon, fake pine branches, and candles, I plan to start reading. Look for a review in the near future.Attention chocolatiers and food and beverage vendors: I am also available to review chocolates, candies, fine wines and cheeses. Sometimes we bloggers

Hurricane Katrina Damage Caused by Hurricane, According to NOAA

2005-09-02T08:48:00.000-07:00

Photo courtesy of NOAA BATON ROUGE, LA. -- The horrific hurricane-force winds, rain, flooding and storm surges the U.S. Gulf Coast region experienced Monday night were caused by a hurricane, according to The National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA.)"People have been trying to figure out what caused this devastation," said Dr. Phil Mixon, chief meterologist at NOAA. "Some believe it

Masturbation Only True Form of Safe Sex, Says Activist

2005-08-28T19:13:00.000-07:00

Hands-On Lovers Want People to Throw Away the Condoms.LAS VEGAS -- Throw aways your condoms, your birth control pills and your relationship, because masturbation is the only way to ensure a safe and stable sex life, according to John Lee Morgan, a national safe sex activist."There is no form of contraception that protects against STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) 100 percent of the time,"

Parishes Report Extraordinary Minister Shortage

2005-08-22T20:44:00.000-07:00

Extraordinary Minister Crisis: Will Priests Be Forced to Pick Up Slack?DAVENPORT, IOWA -- While Catholics across the country pray for an end to the religious vocations crisis, many parishes are now reporting a sharp decline in extraordinary ministers, the lay volunteers who distribute communion to parishoners."It has gotten so bad we only have two eucharistic ministers for every one parishoner,"

Pitt Supports Prolife Movement, Dates Women Who Adopt

2005-08-21T19:57:00.000-07:00

Could Mia Farrow be next?SANTA BARBARA -- Although tabloids have put a negative spin on Brad Pitt's divorce from Jennifer Aniston, as well as his subsequent relationship with single mom Angelina Jolie, in reality the actor ended his marriage and started dating his Mr. and Mrs. Smith costar to support the prolife cause."Brad is a big believer in adoption, particularly the adoption of children in

Catholicnews.org Patron Saints

2005-08-18T09:51:00.000-07:00

For some time now, I have wanted to choose a patron saint or two or three for this here blog. There are other saints I am fond of, too, but these people seemed the most appropriate for whatever it is I am trying to accomplish here.OK, here it goes.St. Thomas More St. Thomas More used humor to get his message across. He wrote the great work, "Utopia," in an effort to critique the society he lived

NYC Ad Agency to Pitch New Image Campaign to Vatican

2005-08-15T11:47:00.000-07:00

Is there an audience for"The Coca-Cola White Smoke Instant Replay"?NEW YORK CITY -- Redman & Redman, LLC, is hoping their new advertising campaign will have the world looking at the Vatican - and Catholicism - in a whole new way."This is actually our first ad campaign," said Steve Redman, who started the agency two weeks ago with his wife, Tammy. "We're real excited, though. We've been staying up

Woman Obsessed with Daughter's Archie Comic Book Collection

2005-08-14T14:39:00.000-07:00

Jackson now part of that alternative universe known as Riverdale High.HOUSTON -- In what started as a step to encourage her daughter to read more has morphed into a full-out obsession with Archie, Jughead and the rest of the gang at Riverdale High."I literally can't wait until the next issue comes out," said Grethe Jackson, an occupational therapist at East Houston Therepeutic Recreational

Cantor-Worthy Blog(s)

2005-08-12T20:36:00.000-07:00

It's still Friday somewhere on the planet so here is this week's cantor-worthy blog...drum roll....Sunny Days in Heaven And here's another fine one: Respublica EtceteraYeah, alright! Woo hoo! Way to go! Yeah...OK, I'm tired of this.UPDATE: OK, I am getting rid of this weekly feature. Due to the heavy demands of my other apostolates, I simply don't have time for it. Plus, after three weeks, I am

Who Started the Catholic Church? According to New Poll, Who Knows?

2005-08-10T13:37:00.000-07:00

Mystery: Who Founded the Catholic Church?MEMPHIS -- In a new poll, 80 percent of Catholics say they are not sure who founded the Catholic Church."I'm not sure myself," said Kiersten Sommer, a college freshman who attends mass at Christ the King Catholic Church in Memphis, Tenn. "I know Billy Graham or one of those guys started the Protestant Church, but I don't know who started our denomination.

The American Association of Abortion Providers (AAAP) Gears Up for Convention in Miami

2005-08-09T07:57:00.000-07:00

AAAP to Enjoy Weekend of Fun, Fellowship and Professional Development in Miami.MIAMI -- The American Association of Abortion Providers (AAAP) is getting ready to enjoy some fun, sun, networking,and professional development when the 5th Annual Summer Convention kicks off, Aug. 1, at the Grande Pointe Resort in Miami."We started this association so that our members could get the latest industry

Thank You Note Friday, a.k.a. Cantor-Worthy Blogs

2005-08-04T17:33:00.000-07:00

Since we have a couple of cantor-worthy blogs this week, we will have no advent-wreath making lessons for you. Pity.The following is actually from *me*, not Maureen. I am going to be traveling this weekend. Please pray for me that I make it there safely and back.OK, the cantor-worthy blogs are:RC Mommy Looks like she is going to have to get an au pair girl at some point because she is getting a

Henry VIII Poorly Catechized, Says Catholic Author

2005-08-02T07:08:00.000-07:00

Ignorant of his own faith? BOSTON -- Henry VIII's accomplishments, which include divorce, the dismantling of orphanages, murder, apostasy and setting up his own church, could all be the result of one thing: bad catechesis. "Henry VIII, like many people in our own time, was simply ignorant of his own faith," said Thomas O'Malley, author of Don't Blame Me, Blame the Church. "

Thank You Note Friday (Filed under: Cantor-worthy blogs)

2005-07-29T11:18:00.000-07:00

And the advent wreath award goes to...Every Friday, I am going to list all the blogs and bloggers who have linked to and/or written about stories posted on this blog during the week. On Fridays that I don't have thank yous to make, I will simply share my latest advent wreath making techniques. Enjoy.So, here are this week's cantor-worthy blogs.Technically Unsophisticated: Core's blog has a little

Man Gets Birthday Wish, Church Ceases to Exist

2005-07-27T06:58:00.000-07:00

Birthday Cake Becomes Catalyst for ChangeNEWARK, N.J. -- When John Holland closed his eyes, made a wish and blew out the 46 candles on the birthday cake his wife made him, he had no idea how badly the rest of his day would go.In just a matter of hours, classical works by Homer, Ovid and Vergil disintegrated, Europe was overun by Moors and is now under a theocratic dictatorship, works by

People Across Country Clamor for Pope's OK on Contraception

2005-07-25T06:59:00.000-07:00

Pope Benedict XVINASHVILLE - According to a new poll, when it comes to issues such as marital fidelity, abortion, materialism and euthansia,the majority of Americans don't believe Pope Benedict XVI has any knowledge or authority, yet 90 percent said it would make "a huge difference" in their lives and in the world if the pontiff would bless the use of birth control."It just sickens me that there

Town Hopes Local Man Will Be Canonized

2005-07-19T22:14:00.000-07:00

MARBLE, COLO. -- When Felix Sommers, 58, died of a massive heart attack at Morton's Coffee Shop Monday morning, his waitress, Enid Phillips, wrapped up his half-eaten cheeseburger and sold it on e-bay for $15."He was a great man," said Phillips, a lifelong Marble resident. "I think he is going to be a big saint in the Catholic Church one day. I thought I had to save the leftovers for posterity.

Chesterton's Ghost Appears, Suggests Fans Find "Other Interests"

2005-07-17T22:06:00.000-07:00

Chesterton urged Griffin to do "anything."LONDON -- A London book buyer got the shock of his life yesterday when the ghost of G.K. Chesterton appeared to him and joked that he wished his fans would 'get lives.'"I was in The Bookstop, buying a copy of Orthodoxy when a man touched me on the shoulder and commended me for being a good Distributist and shopping locally," said Jack Griffin, a history

Catholic Apologists Injured Following Game of Uncle

2005-07-14T21:18:00.000-07:00

No Fun on the FarmPADUCAH, KY. -- Andy Donovan and John Wade, two well-known Protestant-turned-Catholic-apologists, were arrested Thursday night following a game of uncle that went horribly awry on Wade's farm in Paducah, Kentucky.Earlier in the evening, Donovan the author of Catholic By the Grace of God, and Wade author of I'm Catholic and I'm Right, began debating papal issues, before it

Parishoners Blame Hand Puppet for Priest's Lackluster Homily

2005-07-13T08:10:00.000-07:00

Uninspired Homilist LITTLE ROCK -- Fr. James McLaughlin's idea to incorporate a hand puppet routine into his homily to "kick things up a notch" was met with yawns and blank stares from parishoners at St. Margaret of Scotland Church in Little Rock, Ark."Fr. Jim is a nice guy and all, but that puppet didn't inspire me to change in any way,"said Mark McCormack, an adjuster for Allstate Insurance. "

Group Protests Catholic Church's Teachings on Moderation

2005-07-10T22:18:00.000-07:00

CHICAGO -- A new group has formed in order to protest the Catholic Church's centuries-long stand on eating and drinking in moderation.Full Effect was created in Chicago, Illinois, last Tuesday with the purpose of educating the public and the Vatican about the failures and dangers of moderation. "Moderation doesn't work," said Aimee Riordan, founder and president of Full Effect. "Study after study

Today, I'm British. No Joke.

2005-07-07T10:32:00.000-07:00

And my Irish side is totally OK with that.Our prayers are with you.This idea was stolen from Tom at The Donegal Express .

A Header Worthy of an Advent Wreath Maker

2005-07-05T19:40:00.000-07:00

I'd like everyone to give a virtual round of applause to Lisa Sabin over at Elegant Webscapes. She redesigned my header and I must say it is indeed cantor-worthy (I am hoping that through my blog I can popularize hip, new sayings like "cantor-worthy.") Anyway, I found an ad for Lisa's design services over at the Truth Laid Bear. She is great to work with and the price is right, so if you ever

Church Endorses Marriage Between Pets and Owners

2005-07-04T21:03:00.000-07:00

Pets Now Dating MaterialThe United Methodist Episcopal Church became the first church denomination in the country to approve a resolution endorsing marriages between pets and owners, July 4. The resolution calls on the denomination to consider wedding policies that do not discriminate against couples in which one of them has "fur, feather, fins or gills.""There is nothing wrong with loving

Woman Finds Ann Coulter Doll Preferable to Real Thing

2005-07-03T19:09:00.000-07:00

Wharton's favorite columnistIn shocking turn of events, an Iowa woman has grown more fond of her Ann Coulter doll than of the actual Constitutional lawyer-turned-columinist."I bought the doll because I liked Ann's columns in Jewish World Review," said Patti Wharton, a receptionist at the Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Des Moines, Iowa. "But after watching her on TV a few times, though, I've

Student Tests Sister's "Modesty is Relative" Theory, Wears Swim Trunks to Mass

2005-06-29T17:24:00.000-07:00

J.Crew Swim Trunk Hodges Used to Prove PointFollowing an argument with his sister over what she planned to wear to mass, Mike Hodges,19, donned a pair of swim trunks and attended the evening service last Sunday with his family at St. Joan of Arc Church in Marietta, Geo."Mandy had on this tight, low-cut, short dress, and when I told her she needed to wear more clothes, she gave me that whole '

Wal-mart Superstores to Introduce Church Services this Fall

2005-06-27T06:45:00.000-07:00

Starting this October, you will be able to get your tires, groceries, and hour of worship all in the same place once Wal-mart Superstores begin offering non-denominational church services on Sundays and Wednesdays."We are all about offering great products and services to consumers every day, and we think our new church services will give customers one more reason to shop and stay at Wal-mart,"

Good Taste and Intelligence Abound in the Blogosphere

2005-06-24T19:48:00.000-07:00

Well, yet another blogger has written a glowing review of this here blog. Christina over at Confessions of a Carmel Sundae has posted a a very nice write-up. To my knowledge she is not an advent wreath maker, but nevertheless she has a number of good and important things to say.In addition, I have added Christina and her husband to my citizen reporter list.See, when you talk about how much you

Editorial: My Cult of Choice

2005-06-22T18:27:00.000-07:00

Alley: Free and ClearDid you know that you can join the Church of Scientology and be a Catholic, too? Yeah, that's what the Church of Scientology says. Cool, huh? Because, let's face it - sometimes Catholicism just isn't that personally fulfilling.Several celebrities claim that Scientology has done amazing things for them. It helped Tom Cruise beat his dyslexia. Scientology enabled Kelly Preston

Would you like to be one of my citizen journalists?

2005-06-22T11:13:00.000-07:00

As you know, if it weren't for bloggers like me, you would never find out the truth of anything. Of course, I can't be everywhere, and need eyes and ears in other parts of the country (and the world, even!) So, if you would like to be one of my citizen journalists, drop me a line at maureenscoolblog@yahoo.com. I will include you as one of my citizen journalists. I check the blogs of my citizen

World Exclusive: Habemus Papam!

2005-06-17T23:05:00.000-07:00

Attention fans and followers of Pope Benedict XVI: it's time to put the party hats and horns away. As it turns out, a Pope was already selected in 1998, but thanks to the Clinton-Lewinski scandal and Hurricanes Georges and Mitch, this news was lost in the shuffle, and never presented to us by the MSM. You'll be happy to know, however, that Catholicnews.org has obtained exclusive photographs from

Welcome to the blog!

2005-06-16T17:39:00.000-07:00

If you googled in the words "catholic news" and stumbled onto this site by mistake....or, if you've hit the "next blog" button on the upper right-hand side of your computer screen and are just passing through...or, if you were looking for news about Dr. Maureen Martin and that story from March about the killer chimps , but wound up here instead - welcome!Feel free to look around, read my profile,

More Gold Stars for This Blog at AMU Life

2005-06-16T08:07:00.000-07:00

More fine praise for this blog over here . Not only is Damian a grad student, but he knows Greek (translation=he's smart). We look forward to insightful comments from Damian on this blog. Let's hope they are all in English, though.I feel my Technorati rating soaring.Maureen

New Catholic Apostolate Launched in Texas

2005-06-15T07:43:00.000-07:00

Crescite et Multiplicamini!, a new lay apostolate was created in the basement of St. George's Catholic Church in Austin, Texas, Saturday.The kickoff meeting of Crescite et Multiplicamini!, which is Latin for Increase and Multiply, attracted 25 people from the parish. Dom Anthony, the apostolate's founder, said he was not quite sure what theapostolate's mission would be, but that he wanted to

National Catholic Reporter Welcomes Child Advocate Columnist to Staff, Unveils New Column for Kids

2005-06-15T07:40:00.000-07:00

Kids will get their faith questions answered with Sister Tomberlin's column, Millstones.The National Catholic Reporter (NCR) welcomed Sister Mary Alice Tomberlin on board Friday as the writer of a new column for children, Millstones.The weekly column will include topics on the minds of Catholics, aged 5-12, including faith, friendship, the arts, women's ordination, liberation theology, birth

Got a a Tip or Story Idea?

2005-06-13T19:11:00.000-07:00

Then, hit me. Now, I am busy with my many Church apostolates, but I will always make time for you: my beloved readers. If you have a tip or story idea, email me at maureenscoolblog@yahoo.com As you know, the Christian World will come to a complete standstill unless I am blogging...or teaching others to make wreaths.MM

Tom Cruise in the News

2005-06-13T11:22:00.000-07:00

What happens when a nice Catholic boy and former aspirant to the priesthood leaves Catholicism for a new-and-improved religion? Why, he becomes filled with the "spirit!" Who needs the sacraments when you can, uh, feel and act like this?So, has it taken him awhile to reach this level or perfection, or has he just been holding out on us? Click on the headline to see the spirited remix of him on "O

"Catholic" Apologist Matatics Gets Amnesia, Declares Self "Schismatic"

2005-06-11T21:36:00.000-07:00

Only hours after falling from a 12-ft ladder at his home in Pennsylvania Tuesday and suffering amnesia, one-time respected Catholic apologist Gerry Matatics denounced himself as a "schismatic.""Who in the heck is this nutball?" Matatics purpotedly asked his wife while watching a DVD he starred in and produced, denouncing the Novus Ordo mass. When his wife informed him that he was the nutball,

More Handclaps for This Blog at The Donegal Express

2005-06-11T10:09:00.000-07:00

Check out the awesome review of catholicnews.org over at The Donegal Express . Like Jordan over at Contemplating the Laundry , and the folks at Hereditas, Tom has good taste and a whole lotta sense! BTW, Tom has news about our upcoming tour. This is not to be confused with my "Blogging Patriots Tour" with my husband, Tom.See, more and more folks in the Blogosphere are catching the fever that is

I'm back

2005-06-10T17:25:00.000-07:00

I hear a collective sigh of relief in the blogosphere. Yes, the advent wreath-making conference was exhausting, but I've learned some exciting new techniques involving wire ribbon....Looks like I got a huge stack of news, mail, comments, etc., to sort through now. Maybe I should get an au pair girl to help me with the household duties (at least the ones I don't like, anyway). You people just

Blogging Hiatus

2005-06-05T07:16:00.000-07:00

As a dutiful blogger in our Blogoshere, I thought it was important to tell you I am taking a short blogging break. Don't be afraid,though. Don't turn on your TVs, radios, or open your newspapers while I am gone. Remember: I am *the* source for news.And please, commenters don't fight with each other and be uncharitable to one another while I am gone; that is my job. My duty is to berate you and

Legionaires Purchase Last Catholic Newspaper

2005-06-05T07:08:00.000-07:00

The Legionaires of Christ have purchased "The Catholic Pundit," the last independent Catholicnewspaper in the United States."I tried to hold out as long as I could, even publishing it secretly in my basement," saidStephen Vedner, who teaches English and journalism at Our Lady of Sorrow School in Akron, Ohio. "My neighbor down the street,who is in Regnum Christi, ratted me out, though." Vedner

Celebrated Lyricist Pens Hymn During Drive-Through Wait

2005-06-03T22:31:00.000-07:00

In less time than it took him to order a Whopper with fries, Marty Haugen wrote the lyrics and melody yesterday for a new hymn he says is his best yet."'Gather Us In' has always been my personal favorite, but my newest hymn,'We are the Apples of Your Eye' really speaks from my heart, and the crazy thing is the words came to me while I was waiting in line at Burger King," Haugen said. "They say

New Poll Shows Majority of Catholics Who Reject Church Teachings Refuse to Leave, but Don't Know Why

2005-06-02T18:59:00.000-07:00

St. Ignatius Chapel at the University of SeattleSeventy-five percent of Catholics who say they disagree with the Church's traditional teachings on birth control, divorce and homosexuality said they aren't exactly sure why they want to remain members of the Church, but they aren't leaving, according to a new poll."I guess I could officially renounce my Catholicism," said Bert Tucker, a computer

Daily Kos Posters Struggle to Put "Best Spin" on "Constitutional Right"

2005-06-01T18:07:00.000-07:00

Although Roe v. Wade was passed in 1973, posters at Daily Kos, the country's most-heavily visited liberal blog, are still struggling to find the best "spin" for this "constitutional right.""The country's on our side," said Kos, founder of Daily Kos, "but we need to frame this in such a way, so that everyone will accept it."After a flurry of posts between cinnamongirl, doglover, and castrobean, it

More Praise for this Blog!

2005-06-01T06:38:00.000-07:00

Although I have only been slaving away at this blog for about five days, there is already more praise for it in the Blogosphere. This time, the kudos come from Hereditas magazine. Read about how great my blog is over here.Also, don't forget to check out the "I love Maureen" gear at the link below. Again, I am going to try to figure out some way to have the proceeds go toward my apostolate!

This Site Isn't Affiliated With My Blog, but...

2005-05-31T21:18:00.000-07:00

it should be. It's Maureen gear. Those of you who are fans of me and this blog, should consider buying some of this cute stuff, and showing your support for...me. I am going to try to figure out some way to link this site, so that proceeds benefit my apostolate.P.S. The owner of this Maureen gear website has also been accused of being Maureen Dowd. What's up with that? Just to make it clear: the

Read the Review of this Blog at Contemplating the Laundry

2005-05-31T09:45:00.000-07:00

Hey,A superlative review of this blog was just posted over... here. See, people know a good thing when they see it, at least this particular blogger, anyway.H/T Contemplating the Laundry

One Person's View of Blogs

2005-05-30T19:16:00.000-07:00

What's your view? Are we saving the world or just wasting a lot of people's time? You know, it takes a lot of time and talent to search the Internet, looking for interesting news stories. You'd have to go to all those sites yourself, if I weren't slaving away, bringing the news to you. Plus, I give you commentary, too, and when you don't agree with me, I berate you into submission. Yeah!