Catholic Family Vignettes

The following reviews would leave one to wonder if USCCB film reviewers, Harry Forbes and John Mulderig, actually saw the same movie (BTW, check out what the American Papist has to say!):

The worst crime of a film like this is that not only is it retarded, it expects its audience to be retarded as well.

Walter Chaw
Film Freak Central

The Golden Compass ultimately fails as a film in its broad strokes and inadequate scene development.

Deborah Day
Premiere Magazine

There may be box-office gold from The Golden Compass, but panning for it while viewing is a real day at the mine.

David Elliott
San Diego Union-Tribune

A mishmash of half-baked ideas, loud special-effects and disjointed imagery.

Adam Graham
Detroit News

A movie with characters constantly explaining arcane concepts and only rarely doing anything about them.

Josh Bell
Las Vegas Weekly

This series has promise, but The Golden Compass is a letdown.

Bill Clark
FromTheBalcony

Hampered by its fealty to the book and its madly rushed pace.

Manohla Dargis
New York Times

Golden Compass lacks any real fantastic flair. It is a decent enough feature, but is short of that spell-binding quality that will allow audiences to embrace it.

Bob Bloom
Journal and Courier (Lafayette, IN)

Almost nothing remains at the end – not a glimmer of mystical inquisition, not a teasing loose-end of space-time speculation – to lure a Pullmanite towards a sequel.

Ethan Alter
Film Journal International

And my personal favorite:

Why is it so joyless?

Lisa Kennedy
Denver Post

Well, Lisa, to answer your question: When you blatantly attempt to destroy "the Authority", to undermine His Church and to seduce His children, you can pretty much count on an absence of joy. Eliminate the source of all true joy and there is simply nothing left.

And here is the rest of it. Read more!

Overheard by Mr. Tom while at the zoo petting barn:

Charlotte (innocently): Where do the goats lay their eggs?

Gareth (indignant): Charlotte! Goats do not lay eggs...they are born already hatched!

Charlotte (angrily): Yes, they do Gareth! I know they do!

I'm glad we have that straight. Though I must say, this cardboard cut-out does seem to give credence to Charlottes's assertion.

(I think it's supposed to be a snowball...could be an egg...who knows?)


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I love the Columbus Zoo.

Last Christmas, my dear Grandmother gave the family an annual membership. A very practical gift, since a day's admission for a family this size costs more than a yearly membership.

Last year, we were delighted to discover that the zoo is open after hours throughout the holiday season. Wild Lights at the Columbus Zoo offers visitors the opportunity to stroll through the park (which is beautifully lit by more than three million lights) and observe the nocturnal activities of the many animals. Vendors selling Bavarian roasted pecans and almonds, hot wassail and cocoa, ice skating and a visit with St. Nick enhance the festive spirit. We attended Wild Lights last year, and the children have been clamoring to go ever since.

So we took them on Saturday night. We invited our dear friend, Tom, to join us. True, the sky was a bit misty and it was very dark and very cold, but hey--that's part of the fun!

As we approached the park, the traffic was insane! Apparently, our good idea appealed to most of Columbus as well. Parking the car, it was apparent that it was no longer just cold, it was freezing. And it was not just a bit misty, it was raining.

We stood in line. For a very long time. Getting wetter and wetter.

Mr. Tom, with his wry sense of humor says "Oh...I see. This is how you punish the children when they misbehave. You take them to the zoo in the dark and get them very wet and very cold."

Ha ha.

Once inside the park, things improved. The children were enchanted by the lights, though the crowds were significantly larger than last year.

The good: the beautiful lights, the petting barn, the model trains.

The bad: too much traffic, a large group of obnoxious teenagers, and four little boys who simply couldn't stop making snowballs and pelting each other.

Oh yeah...we lost Maximilian. My sweet boy is a non-stop "lagger". He simply will not stay with the group. This is not the first time Max has been "left behind." He was quickly found by his dad (at the model train station), but not before his panicky mom had alerted park security.

It is a testimony to the hardiness of the children that they do, indeed, call this fun!

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From Goffine's Devout Instructions:

December 8

On this and the following eight days the Church celebrates, with particular solemnity, the immaculate conception of the ever-blessed Virgin Mary, who, from all eternity, was chosen to be the daughter of the heavenly Father, the spouse of the Holy Ghost, the Mother of the divine Redeemer, and, by consequence, the queen of angels and of men. The consideration of these prerogatives convinced the most enlightened fathers and teachers of the Catholic Church that she was conceived immaculate, that is, without original sin. It is very remarkable that among the shining hosts of saints who have, in every century, adorned the Church no one wrote against this belief, while we find it confirmed by the decisions of the holy fathers from the earliest times. Pope Pius IX, forced, as it were, by the faith and devotion of the faithful throughout the world, finally, on 8 December 1854, sanctioned, as a dogma of faith falling within the infallible rule of Catholic traditions, this admirable prerogative of the Blessed Virgin. It is, therefore, now no longer, as fomerly, a pious belief, but an article of the faith, that Mary, like the purest morning light which precedes the rising of the most brilliant sun, was, from the first instant of her conception, free from original sin.

In the Introit of the Mass the Church sings: "I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, and my soul shall be joyful in my God; for He hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, and with the robe of justice He hath covered me, as a bride adorned with her jewels. I will extol thee, O Lord, for Thou hast upheld me: and hast not made my enemies to rejoice over me." Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and forever shall be, world without end. Amen.
Prayer

We beseech Thee, O Lord, to bestow on Thy servants the gift of heavenly grace, that, for those to whom the Blessed Virgin's maternity was the beginning of salvation, the votive solemnity of her immaculate conception may procure increase of peace. Through Christ our Lord, etc. Amen.

Epistle: Proverbs 8:22-35

The Lord possessed Me in the beginning of His ways, before He made anything from the beginning. I was set up from eternity, and of old before the earth was made. The depths were not as yet, and I was already conceived, neither had the fountains of waters as yet sprung out: the mountains with their huge bulk had not as yet been established: before the hills I was brought forth: He had not yet made the earth, nor the rivers, nor the poles of the world. When He prepared the heavens, I was present: when with a certain law and compass He enclosed the depths: when He established the sky above, and poised the fountains of waters: when He compassed the sea with its bounds, and set a law to the waters that they should not pass their limits: when He balanced the foundations of the earth, I was with Him forming all things; and was delighted every day, playing before Him at all times; playing in the world, and My delights were to be with the children of men. Now, therefore, ye children, hear Me: Blessed are they that keep My ways. Hear instruction and be wise, and refuse it not. Blessed is the man that heareth Me, and that watcheth daily at My gates, and waiteth at the posts of My doors. He that shall find Me shall find life, and shall have salvation from the Lord.

Explanation

This lesson is, in the literal sense, a eulogy on the divine and uncreated wisdom, which before all things was in God; through which all things were made, disposed, and preserved; which rejoices in its works, and calls upon all its creatures, especially on men, to render to it love and obedience. Most of what is here said is also to be applied to Mary, of whom it may with truth be said that, as the holiest and most admirable of all creatures, she occupies the first place in the heart of God. Therefore the Church also refers to her those words of the wise man: "I came out of the mouth of the Most High, the first born of all creatures."

Gospel: Luke 1:26-28

And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God into a city of Galilee, called Nazareth, to a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David, and the virgin's name was Mary. And the angel being come in, said unto her: Hail, full of grace; the Lord is with thee; blessed art thou among women.

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Today the children and I watched a lovely musical, which most people are familiar with--The Sound Of Music. The movie is delightful, the songs memorable and the cinematography outstanding.

Unfortunately, like most movies it bears little resemblance to the "real" story, which is every bit as delightful and inspiring as the movie. The Story of the Trapp Family Singers, by Maria Augusta Trapp gives the reader a first person account of the daily workings of this famous family. Perhaps the most striking aspect of the Trapp family, is the way they lived the Liturgical Year. Advent, Christmas, Lent, Easter, Feast Days, Name Days...theirs was a life lived by the Church calendar.

Another lovely book, Around the Year with the Trapp Family focused on the Liturgical celebrations so faithfully and beautifully honored by the family. Alas, it is no longer in print and is a little difficult to come by. This lovely blog, Around the Year with the Trapp Family provides excerpts from the publication to aid those who wish to incorporate a variety of celebratory traditions. Readers who wish to have the entire text, may find it in the EWTN library.

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An intriguing new movie is set for release in February 2008, Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed. Watch this trailer:



For those of us who reject the "doctrine" of Darwin and his many cohorts, the film raises a very interesting question: Why is mainstream science supressing the teaching of Intelligent Design? Ben Stein attempts to answer this question in a thought provoking manner, demonstrating instances in which top Intelligent Design scientists and educators have been persecuted for their beliefs and teachings.

As someone who believes in the TDC (the Traditional Doctrine of Creation) as taught by the Church, the struggle to present this body of teaching is increasingly difficult. The majority of library books, text books, science programs, etc., which deal with creation, espouse evolutionary science as a fact--not a theory.

Don't get me wrong...my children are being taught exactly what Darwin/Evolutionary science teaches about creation. And then they are taught the truth.

Here are a couple of excellent resources for your perusal:

The Kolbe Center For The Study Of Creation
Evolution And Other Fairy Tales by Dr. Larry Azar (I'm still reading this one!)
A Neo-Patristic Approach To Creation-Science

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The boots are dry. So are the coats, hats, snowpants, etc.

Dad used the plow blade to create a "snow mountain" after he came in around 8:00 p.m. -- that's 16 hours of plowing. He left this morning at 3:00 a.m. to salt. The forecast tonight? Another 2 to 3 inches. You'd think the children would all be clamoring to go out right now. You'd think they would be anxious to convert that "mountain" into a "mansion"...

So---where are the children? Not outside! The current temperature:

"0"--ZERO!

Good St. Nick left them a couple projects to distract them...at least until the temperature goes up:






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This looks absolutely stunning!

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It is nearly that time again...time to set our shoes upon the hearth in hopes that St. Nicholas will bring a few little gifts for those of us who have been very, very good.

Well...perhaps mostly good will suffice! This evening we will read about the life of our good Saint, light the Advent wreath and share a little snack before setting out the shoes. The children are usually so excited about the coming of St. Nicholas--today they are just a little distracted by all the snow.

They have been in and out all day long. Coats on, hats on, gloves on, snowpants on, boots on. Coats off, hats off, gloves off, snowpants off, boots off. At least four times. Thank heavens for the "mud room"...which is truly living up to its name--perhaps "slush room" would be appropriate, as well.

Soon the sun will set and the temperature will plummet into the low teens. Normally, the hubby and I would enjoy a midnight walk in the winter wonderland, but that is not happening tonight. No...it's not the cold. The dear man is still plowing...since 2:00 a.m. Say a little prayer for him, if you would. I know he is so very tired.

We'll walk tomorrow night!

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The Holy Roman Catholic Church remains in Hollywood's "crosshairs". While it is no surprise that a "Christian" (read Protestant) production company has spun yet another anti-Catholic yarn, it came as a surprise to many people (Catholics and non-Catholics alike) when a USCCB film reviewer gave a "thumbs up" review for The Golden Compass. Several Bishops have issued statements condemning The Golden Compass and not a few Catholics are urging the firing of Harry Forbes, the Director of the USCCB Office for Film and Broadcasting.

Read John-Henry Westen's article here.

Here is an excerpt from an article by CNA regarding the letter sent by Wisconsin Bishop, Jerome Listecki:

In the letter Bishop Jerome Listecki explained his duty as bishop was to inform priests and laity about entertainment that is harmful to Christian belief. He noted the self-proclaimed atheist and anti-Christian aims of Philip Pullman, the author of the trilogy on which the movie is based.

He described how the books were problematic, saying "instead of using fantasy to lead people to truth and to God, this trilogy tries to lead them away from God."

Bishop Listecki said that, despite the movie’s qualities, “it is clear that this movie is the first part of a trilogy that expresses hatred of Christianity and that portrays God, the Church and religion as evil and oppressive and urges children to join fallen angels in a rebellion against God."

He urged his priests to warn the faithful, especially parents, about the series’ attack on the Christian faith and the innocence of children.

The Diocese of La Cross website has published a question and answer sheet about the movie for parents. It warns parents about desensitizing children to evil, and suggests telling their children the movie is “definitely poison for the soul.”

The Catholic League has called for a boycott of the film due to the blatant attack upon the Church and Christianity in general.

And the movie Noelle? This is not a children's movie nor is it marketed as one. It is absurd, at best. Bill Donahue of The Catholic League provides an apt summary:

Donohue summarized the Catholic League’s objections: “Throughout the film, confession is trivialized, celibacy is ridiculed, the Virgin Mary is disrespected, nuns are belittled, last rites are mocked, and priestly vocations are caricatured. In short, that which is uniquely Catholic is trashed.”

But he also minimized the importance of Noëlle: “the plot and the acting are so deliriously absurd that it is impossible for us to get too worked up about this flick.”

Looks like it's time to put some popcorn in the microwave and pick up a few classics at the video store...

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Breakfast for my dear husband at 2:00 a.m. Lunch packed, as well.

Time to plow! God bless him, and the many men like him, venturing into the dark to improve the roads for those brave enough to venture out at dawn's first light.

It is the eve of the Feast Of St. Nicholas, and I got my gift early. The first significant snowfall of the season is upon us, and I'm giddy!
As I sit typing, my children are sprinting down the stairs, voices raised in joyful chorus: It's snowing! How beautiful! Oh, it's lovely! Can we go outside now?

I'll be right there, with them! There were no "snow days" when I was a child. I grew up in Jacksonville, Florida. I remember many Christmas days spent in short sleeves, riding my bike in the 70 degree weather. For this big kid...YUCK! I'll take the blustery cold, the blowing snow, yes...even sleet.

This afternoon, a very tired Dad will return home and park the plow...but not before he plows the circular drive and creates the most enormous snow mountain ever!

Pictures of the snow "mansion" to follow...meanwhile, enjoy this:

Curiouser and curiouser...from Zenit:

Coke's Compass

I saw that Coca-Cola is promoting the movie [What Every Parent Should Know About "The Golden Compass"], and I wrote to them to express my feelings about it -- including mentioning that the villains are called "The Magisterium" in the movie.

Here is the response I got:

"We appreciate the opportunity to respond to your concerns.

"The Golden Compass movie is a story about friendship, love, loyalty, tolerance, courage and responsibility. This movie also provides an opportunity for Coca-Cola to help raise awareness about climate change and the perilous state of the polar bear.

"We do not believe that this fantasy movie is an attack on any religion. We would never support a film that intentionally antagonized or condemned any faith."

If they receive more letters about this, it's possible it may accomplish something.

Rick Kephart

(You just can't make this stuff up...it is way too bizarre!)

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The mantle is a work in progress...


The Advent wreath was completed on Saturday...


The remaining Advent preparations are going well, although I believe the Jesse Tree may fall by the wayside...after coloring all of our ornaments, we still haven't managed to attached them to their frames nor have we set up the actual tree itself. I think we'll just stick to reading about the symbols and follow our traditions of the past.

With so many lovely feast days to celebrate (Feast of the Immaculate Conception, St. Nicholas, St. Lucy) it is sometimes hard to remember that the season of Advent is penitential. A time to "make straight the way of the Lord". A time to prepare our hearts for the coming of our infant King.

May the Lord, our God, grant me the grace to prepare interiorly so that I may experience to the fullest the loveliness of this Holy Season.

May you all be blessed!

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The slips have been drawn, and this year's cast of characters have been assembled.

Every year, for the past several years, our family has endeavored to emulate the virtues displayed by the various "characters" of the Nativity of our Lord. Slips of paper containing the names and virtues of each are folded and placed in a hat.

The toughest role? Definitely the Blessed Virgin Mary. My son, Gawain, was most anxious to be Mary because he says "it's easier to be good." Ouch. I've often dreaded drawing that particular slip because of the high standards expected of Our Lady!

Emily, on the other hand would only be satisfied if she could be the Christmas Star, because she "wants to be the leader...(sniff, sniff)

I, on the other hand, have managed to draw every single year without fail the "donkey." Docile, humble beast of burden...bearing all things patiently. sigh....

Nonetheless, these are the slips as they were drawn:

The Christmas Star: Mom
Virtues: Provide a steady light to guide the weary pilgrims. A source of guidance and illumination


The Angel: Gareth
Virtues: Proclaims the "tidings of great joy". A source of inspiration. Obedient to the will of God.



Blessed Virgin: Gawain
Virtues: Meek, humble, modest and pure. Full and complete obedience to God. Holiness.


St. Joseph: Galahad
Virtues: Humility, leadership and humble trust in God. Chastity and patience


The Shepherd: Arthur
Virtues: Leadership. Listens to God. Kindness to the "lambs." Goodness.

The Lambs (2): Emily and Clementine
Virtues: Docility, innocence, obedience and trust.


The Ox: Dad
Virtues: Hardwork and diligence. Patience and sacrifice.



The Donkey: Charlotte
Virtues: Humility and docility. Patiently bears the burdens of others

I'll keep you posted on our progress...this is one of our favorite Advent-ures! Read more!

A surprise visit from my dear daughter, Caitlin, has necessitated a bit of a "blog fast." Who has time for the computer when a beloved daughter visits from another state?!

The visit was much too short, though Christmas is just around the corner and we will see her then.

During her brief stay, we paid a visit to our priest at the rectory. As Caitlin and Father were talking, I was privileged to overhear another unrelated conversation that I would like to share (no deep dark secrets, I promise!):

The door bell rang, quite loudly, and a parish volunteer (a dear friend and incredible woman) quickly answered the door. Though I could see neither my friend nor the visitor (a homeless man), the conversation was completely audible.

"Yes, may I help you?"

(a kind voice, full of respect, humility and good cheer): "Yes mam, someone on the street mentioned that you might have candles here...I sure could use one, if you have any left."

(in the sweetest, most charitable tone imaginable): "Oh, yes, indeed! Let me get you one...is there anything else you need?"

"They mentioned you might have a blanket...it sure is cold tonight, and with the sleet and all, it would sure help me to stay dry."

"I'll be right back with a candle and a blanket! (brief exit) Here you go...is there anything else I can help you with?"

"Oh, mam...you have no idea how much this helps! God bless you for this...it makes all the difference!"

"God bless you, sir...keep warm!"

"I will now..."

Such little things...an old blanket and a partially used candle. And yet they make all the difference.

Father has been providing used blankets and candles to the homeless for quite sometime. A little light and a little warmth...barriers against the cold, dark nights experienced by the homeless poor.

A few moments after the gentleman (and he was a gentleman) left, another volunteer answered the door for a young woman in search of a sandwich.

The same charity offered with such dignity and kindness. The same good cheer and grateful reception by the hungry young woman who may or may not have had a place to lay her head...

How often we hear the words: "I wish I were rich...oh how much I could help the poor!" Such noble sentiments...but wealth is not necessary! Old blankets, candles, sandwiches...used gloves, mittens, hats and scarves! The cold months are so hard.

Well...off to the garage. I have a few old blankets and candles to get together. I've meant to do it so many times. Those sweet voices are ringing in my ears:

"Oh, mam...you have no idea how much this helps! God bless you for this...it makes all the difference!"
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