I know. Why don't all the different faith groups (religions, denominations, factions, cults etc.) ask Benny if they can have a "worship space" inside the walls of that "independent nation state," the Vatican. If he says no, then the governments of the independent nation states where each group is based should politely (at first) ask the Roman Catholics to leave their country.
More than 150 church leaders issued a joint declaration Friday reaffirming their opposition to abortion and gay marriage and pledging to protect religious freedoms. The 4,700-word document, called "The Manhattan Declaration: sounds familiar themes from political and social debates over the health care overhaul and gay marriage battles.
While acknowledging that "Christians and our institutions have too often scandalously failed to uphold the institution of marriage," the group rejects same-sex marriage. The declaration states that opening a legal door for gay marriage would do the same for "polyamorous partnerships, polygamous households, even adult brothers, sisters, or brothers and sisters living in incestuous relationships."
“[I]t is out of love (not “animus”) and prudent concern for the common good (not “prejudice”), that we pledge to labor ceaselessly to preserve the legal definition of marriage as the union of one man and one woman and to rebuild the marriage culture,” it reads.
The declaration also cites threats to health care workers' conscience clauses and anti-discrimination statutes it argues impinge on religious freedoms.
Signers included Christian leaders like Tim Keller, J.I. Packer, and Cardinal Justin Rigali, as well as leaders of organizations like Focus on the Family, the National Association of Evangelicals, and Evangelicals for Social Action.
Father Chad Hatfield, head of St. Vladimir’s Orthodox Theological Seminary, said he signed it because, “We know what it’s like to be intimidated into silence,” referring to Eastern Orthodox persecution under communism.
The declaration closes: “We will fully and ungrudgingly render to Caesar what is Caesar’s. But under no circumstances will we render to Caesar what is God’s.”
Sorry it's late, but here is this week's Loud Friday mix.
It's a load of live stuff from the Japanese, garage, punk group, Teengenerate. They keep splitting up and reforming and I've got no idea if they are together or apart at this precise moment in time. This particular concert recording comes from the year 2000 or, maybe, a bit earlier. But, what the heck? It's loud and that's all that matters.
Ruth Gledhill, incidentally, has on video a confirmation of the story that when Rowan first heard of the pope's arrangements for Anglo-Catholic conservatives, he was so angry and startled that he rang the cardinal responsible for relations with the Church of England in the middle of the night.
It's now clear that the ordinariates were the result of a conspiracy among the notionally Anglican bishops of Forward in Faith rather than in the Vatican. The Traditional Anglican Communion, a mysterious body which claims several hundred thousand members, did put in the first request, but were not subsequently involved in the negotiations, according to Cardinal Kasper's account in Osservatore Romano. See here also the Archbishop of Westminster, Vincent Nichols's, remark inan interview with the Tablet that it had not been up to him to warn Rowan what was going on: that was a job for his own bishops (ie the Forward in Faith crowd). But they don't think they are his bishops. This is a simple point which he has long been unable to grasp.
(Andrew Brown THE GUARDIAN)
Oh, she's a smooth operator is Our Ruth. Respect due.
From the website of the BRITISH HUMANIST SOCIETY (they're not proper humanists - just a bunch of angry, jealous saddoes):
From OUR RUTH'S blog:
Oh, how totally embarrassing for them. And they're such an earnest bunch of killjoys.
What I want to know is if Richard Dawkins really does exist, why does he allow such awful things like this to happen?
From CHRISTIAN TODAY (India):
In its civil suit against the Church of South India, the US-based Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) has demanded a full return of 18.78 crore given for the relief and rehabilitation of tsunami victims. The case filed at the Madras High Court sought the return of all monies with 24 per cent interest, given between March 2005 and January 2006.
ERD president Robert W Radtke has accused the former CSI leadership of swindling Rs 7.5 crore from the tsunami relief fund. A major fraud in the handling of the overseas fund was uncovered after an investigation by the Central Crime Branch (CCB) of the Chennai police. The investigation revealed that the former general secretary of the CSI, Pauline Sathyamurthy, and her husband had siphoned off crores for luxury goods and properties.
Sherry has posted a really interesting post on the different theories as to why Neanderthals went extinct on her
A FEATHER ADRIFT blog. Evidently, scientists no longer believe that Neanderthals bred with Homo Sapiens which means that humans do not possess any Neanderthal DNA. Well, all I can say is that these scientists have, obviously, never been to Sunderland.
Posted by Larry at RENZ IN THE WOODS:
Cosmo "Joe" Shell
August 1997 - November 2009
Cosmo came into my life on the Sunday before Labor Day weekend 2003. There had been an ad in the Mining Journal: "Free to a good home...6-year-old Schipperke..." The college student who had been hiding him illegally in her apartment because her parents no longer wanted to keep him, was forced to find him a new home.
He was always a bit on the neurotic side (kind of like his Dad), but, over the years, he shed much of his inhibitions and thoroughly enjoyed his life. More than any of my dogs, Cosmo smiled. This earned him one of his many nicknames - Smiley Joe Wiggle-Butt. Schipperke's have only stump tails so he would wag his back side vigorously to make up for it.
Cosmo loved living in the woods. Out here he could run and run and run and still want to run some more. In recent years, he would finally come home limping and I would bring him in for a time out, but he'd be ready to go out again after only a few minutes. For all his timidness, he loved to run with the big dog from next door, Cedar, and took apparent pleasure in hollering at him as they ran up and down Maple Rd.
Now he is free of pain and he can run in the woods as long as he chooses to. His spirit is here with me in my heart. He was and will always be the classic good dog. Rest well, little buddy.
***
Please pray for the people of Western Britain, especially those who live in Cumbria. It appears likely that has been loss of life.
From JCF:
I... ask your prayers for our favorite Benedictine, Prior Aelred, as his father is near death (and also particularly for his mother. They've been married 60 years, and doesn't know how to go on w/o him). Lord, grant merciful departure from this life to Eternity, and comfort for the bereaved...
***
From Fran
(On The Very Reverend Jim Jensen's Requiem Eucharist):
Jonathan, I was there. I just got home and will post something and share it tomorrow, too tired.
It was an extraordinary service, so beautiful. I met Kathy for the first time, met Muthah+/Rev. Lauren Gough and others. Kathy is very aware of and deeply grateful for all the prayers and love.
UPDATE: Part one of Fran's blog on Jim's funeral
can now be found at THERE WILL BE BREAD.
***
From Gary to a friend at Facebook:
Roseann was admitted to the Arkansas Hospice inpatient facility. She sleeps pretty much all of the time now and only wakes up for a few seconds at a time -- sometimes lucid, other times not. The Hospice staff is awesome and are doing a wonderful job of keeping her comfortable and making sure she gets anything she needs. Her room has an extra bed and I will be spending most of my time in the room with her until the end comes. Thanx so much to all of you for your love and support -- your calls visits & online messages meant a great deal to her (and me). Please know that she loves you all as do I.
***
From Ann Fontaine:
Prayers for the Rev. Kay Rohde, member of our Diocesan staff. She will have surgery on Dec. 1 for a tumor on her spinal cord. and for her son Alex who is graduating Dec. 5.
***
Posted by Mother Amelia at
MY MOTHER IS A FATHER.
An update on her little dog, Izzie:
I just returned from the vet and the news is not good. Even though the disk is quite repairable and Izzie would likely come through that just fine, they discovered a tumor behind her tongue. The vet said it looked like squamous cell carcinoma, although a biopsy is needed to be sure. The vet said she would hate to do surgery on a dog that might live just 6 months or so and I agree. I will pick her up in the morning and she will get medication for pain for her spine and other meds and I will just wait and watch. I'm devastated and need to rest a bit.
***
Posted by Fr. Kenny at RECTOR'S RAMBLINGS:
The Black Dog of depression is never far away. Maybe it's the rain, or the lack of good sunshine? The last few months of ministry, and life in general, have been good and positive months, but as I sense the dark clouds looming on the horizon, I fear that I'll be burdened with them again, or will the brilliantly resurrected "me" be able to fight them off and stay sane and bright?
***
From Matt Haines
Province VIII Coordiantor
Integrity USA:
I am very sad to announce that our brother Bruce Mason of Portland died suddenly Monday morning. He leaves behind his beloved life-partner Robert Byrd, and a host of family and friends.
Bruce was a kind, faithful and loving servant of Christ. For decades he has served in a large variety of ministries at SS Peter and Paul's Episcopal Church in Portland. He worked with that parish's feeding program and was an active member of the Companions of St. Columba. He was well known for his leadership in the Diocese of Oregon as well.
Bruce volunteered locally and nationally for Integrity. As an Integrity Vice-President, Bruce worked tirelessly for the full inclusion of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender Christians. He was a true mentor to those who followed in his footsteps.
Bruce's funeral is scheduled for Saturday, November 28th, at 10:00 at SS Peter and Paul Episcopal Church 8147 SE Pine St. Portland OR 97215
Please keep Robert in your prayers as well as the countless people who mourn the loss of such a great friend. We will all miss him greatly
A woman left $40,000 worth of rare coins hidden under leaves at the Maryland National Shrine Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes at Mount St Mary's University while she left town, so the Blessed Virgin Mary would watch over her treasure.
While raking leaves at the shrine, a worker uncovered two bags of gold and silver coins in what appeared to be a donation to the shrine, the Catholic Review says.
"We're in the process of trying to raise the money to build the Pilgrim Centre here (at the) Mount and when I saw the gold and silver coins, I immediately thought our prayers were answered," said Bill Tronolone, director of the shrine.
Since the discovery, a claim was made for the small treasure and after an investigation, the coins have been returned to its rightful owner.
"The owner just wanted a safe place to keep her life savings while she left town and in her thinking, what better place than the Grotto, right next to the statue of Mary," Tronolone said.
COMMENT: What better place?
Please keep your answers as simple as possible.
From THE TIMES:
Archbishop of Canterbury tells Pope:
no turning back on women priests
Now, that is good advice. In fact, I would recommend not turning your back on any woman, full stop (period). You never know when they are going to strike. It really is best not to take any chances.
There are plenty of perfectly good explanations as to why a man who has enjoyed a same sex relationship could marry a woman and be happy and sexually fulfilled. For example, he might be bisexual, on the transsexual spectrum or just not choosy. But none of these reasons would allow him to call himself "gay" as in the generally accepted, specific meaning of the word. Therefore, a man who calls himself "ex-gay" is either telling a lie or living a lie.
The opposite of "gay" is not "straight."
The opposite of "gay" is "not gay."
... and to be honest it's not good for ones humility and I am being naughty. It's like roughing up a toddler.
It's here!
The 2010 DIOCESE OF WENCHOSTER calendar.
And our good friend, Saintly Ramblings, has stockpiled the whole lot in the cathedral crypt away from the prying eyes of the Inland Revenue.
As there are only fifty printed copies in existence (well, forty nine actually, as one has already been sent to me as a bribe to get me to give this completely unbiased endorsement of the product) I suggest you go straight to the DIOCESE OF WENCHOSTER website and order your copy now for a measly five English pounds plus postage. And as the English pound is worth about half a groat at the moment that can't be a bad deal.
I am so convinced that you will love this calendar that I am personally offering everybody who buys one, on my recommendation, a cast iron guarantee. If you are not 100% satisfied when you receive the calendar just let me know and I promise to look a bit sheepish and mumble an apology.
As an added incentive I would point out that Saintly Ramblings has paid for the printing out of his own pocket and if he doesn't get the money back nobody will be singing carols in his churches this Christmas and it will be gruel for Christmas dinner for all the children who live in his parishes.
Now, this is rather good if you like your music funky, jazzy and groovy. It's the new album from New York, double bass player, Andy Cotton. The following is from the press release that goes with the record.
Coinciding with a stressful eviction by real estate developers (as part of the gentrification of Williamsburg), bassist/composer/producer Andy Cotton was busy recording countless hours of music in his loft/studio on Havemeyer Street (nicknamed The Havemeyer Ranch). In the spirit of the sessions for Miles’ Bitches Brew, Cotton had the record button down during marathon sessions with many of his fellow Brooklyn artists that were relatively open improvisations, using reggae, Afro-Cuban and R&B rhythms as their base camp. From these sessions Cotton cherry-picked improvisational and unedited moments that became the basic tracks used for the album. “Recording in this way, without time constraints or production schedules, was a great luxury that allowed the songs to develop organically in ways that can never be duplicated,” explained Cotton. “The room also had everything to do with the sound and feel of these recordings, allowing for the musicians and their instruments to sound open and unhindered, allowing each of them to bring as much of themselves as possible in to the music”. Under the influence of King Tubby, Fela Kuti, Appalachian fiddle music, The Police and Sly Stone, Andy Cotton has created an album that captures a sound that’s been in his head for many years and one that uniquely represents the definition of Brooklyn Jazz Underground. “It has finally come together on this recording and can start to reach like minded folks," said Cotton.
You can find out more about Andy and download the whole album for a measly $6.00 (which is practically giving it away) by visiting his WEBSITE.
But, of course, I never hold that particular position. But I defend his right to. As long as you're not hurting anyone else, whatever turns you on is my attitude.
I half inched this photo from ENLIGHTENED CATHOLICISM under which Colleen has left the comment "Sort of reminds me of another group of Godly bigots who also dressed in white chasuble like sheets." Your turn now.
Please continue to pray for Roseann as she quietly drifts into eternity, and for Gary as he sits by her bedside.
***
Please continue to pray for Kathy that the memories will bring her only joy.
More photos of Jim have been posted at LADY OF SILENCES.
***
From Mother Amelia:
Please pray for Izzie. I'm taking her to a specialist today. Her back leg seems to be going.
More details on my blog at MY MOTHER IS A FATHER.
***
Posted at 8TH DAY PLANNER:
In the last few weeks these things have happened:
- A couple we have known for 20 years, who broke up last year, are now embroiled in a nasty custody battle over their daughter.
- One of my closest and oldest friends was laid off this past August... (and) she is now considering moving to Florida where she can be close to her aging parents.
- Another of my nearest and dearest friends is breaking up with her partner.
- The two women who own the summer camp next to ours just told me that they were selling their camp because they can no longer afford it.
I am still dealing with the greater than expected effects of losing my church this year.
HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN
Thursday 19th. November
MORNING: Declare war on Canada.
AFTERNOON: Sort out nationwide cleaners'
strike in ones Church of England.
EVENING: Bingo with the girls.
Occasionally (as in about halfway between a blue moon and hell freezing over) I wake up in the morning and think "today I must be nice to a sweet, grey-haired, always charming and erudite, little old lady who means so much to all of us who hang around this place."
Unfortunately, I don't know anybody like that so I have to make do with cheering Grandmére Mimi up, in stead.
And I think this should do the trick.
Get all the info you need, HERE.
First they threatened to take down health-care reform over abortion coverage. Now they’re threatening services to the sick and poor of Washington, D.C., over same-sex marriage.
They lead a church that claims to stand on the side of the sick and the poor, the meek who shall inherit the earth. But in the course of a single week, the bishops of the Roman Catholic Church proclaimed themselves willing to see health-care denied to millions of uninsured Americans, and to yank the social-service rug out from under the feet of tens of thousands of urban poor in the nation’s capital — all to serve the bishops’ obsession with the sex lives and reproductive organs of others.
(Adele Stan IN THESE TIMES)
From THE SCOTSMAN:
Libyan dictator Colonel Muammar al-Gaddafi asked an escort agency for 500 "beautiful Italian girls" to be supplied for a gala evening in Rome at which he tried to convert them to Islam, it emerged yesterday. Col Gaddafi, 67, also requested that they "were aged between 18 and 35 years old, at least 5ft 7in tall and did not wear mini-skirts or plunging necklines, but high heels were OK". The women, all beautifully dressed, were told to meet at a city centre hotel in the Italian capital, where he is attending a summit on world food security, before being taken to the Libyan ambassador's residence.
Once inside – and after an hour's delay – Col Gaddafi arrived in a white stretch limousine to lecture the women on the superiority of Islam and how they should all convert. He also gave a talk on the Koran and gave them all a copy as a gift as well as a signed copy of his Green Book, an outline of his political philosophy written in 1975.
Col Gaddafi has a habit of making bizarre requests when travelling abroad. Earlier this year he asked to speak to an audience of businesswomen when in Rome on another official visit. However, his lecture did not go down well with many of the women – who were also given a 50 tip. Many complained that they "felt offended as women and for their religion".
One woman said: "I thought we were going to a party – we didn't even get a glass of water or snacks."
Yesterday Alessandro Londero, of Rome-based Hostessweb, who supplied the women, said: "It was a very enjoyable experience and the girls were captivated by the evening. One thing I do want to stress is that none of the girls spent the night there – I counted them all in and I counted them all out. There was nothing untoward. It was simply an interesting evening of discussion."
From THE LOCAL (Sweden):
During a four month span in 2008, a 46-year-old Swede was picked up four times for driving without a licence by Norwegian police in various towns outside of the capital Oslo. On one occasion, the man also attempted to hide his expired registration tabs by fashioning false plates out of cardboard, but Norwegian police saw through the ruse.
The Swede defended his actions during questioning by police in the town of Moss, arguing he was Jesus, the son of God, and that he ruled the world. As a result, the Swede argued, he didn’t need to abide by earthly driving regulations.
But the district court in Moss didn’t buy the man’s holy defence, and sentenced him to 30 days in prison and fined him 2,000 Norwegian kronor ($360).
COMMENT: Tut! I thought a prophet was supposed to be given a bit of respect outside of his hometown. Mind you, the court clerk is going to have a difficult job changing those shekels into kronor and the exchange rate has been really crap since the fall of Jerusalem.
HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN
Wednesday 18th. November
8.00 a.m. Muck out horses. Feed corgis. Breakfast.
11.00 a.m. Open that Parliament thingy (maybe, I'll actually get to see his black rod this time).
1.00 p.m. Lunch. Meet MadPriest's bishop - give him some grief about his attitude towards my loyal subject.
2.00 - 4.00 p.m. Shake hands.
5.00 p.m. Home for a cup of tea
and "Coronation Street" on the box.
The good news is that Lisbeth's romantic hideaway (the beach hut on the left just passed the sewerage outlet) has escaped the recent storms without incurring more than a bit of superficial damage. In fact, if she dries out all the driftwood she has acquired and sells it for kindling, she should end up making a tidy profit.
Full details at TELLING SECRETS.
***
Posted by Lauralew at EPISCOGRANNY:
This morning I awoke to a painful, swollen knee. Today was the start of my third week of physical therapy. My knee is supposed to get better, not worse.
The therapist and I reviewed my weekend. We could not pinpoint anything for certain that could have caused it.
I refuse to roll over that easily. Walking, hiking and other exercise is a huge part of my life and I’m not about to give it up without a fight. Although I am limping today, I’m reassured by words I used to speak to my patients quite a bit: “Tincture of time. Things usually respond to tincture of time.”
***
An update on Roseann posted at WOUND UP BIRD:
I was able to chat with Roseann this afternoon, I was on my way to a meeting and decided to give her a call while on the way.
She told me she hadn't slept very well last night so she was quite tired. She was waiting for her priest, Teri, and a former Bishop (May?), whom she was quite fond of. So I figure she is tuckered out this afternoon.
Her God Daughter has been with her and Roseann has enjoyed that a great deal.
She is an amazing soul and I continue to feel the blessed by merely knowing her.
***
Posted by Kenju at IMAGINE:
When I get to the point that I can't hear well even with my hearing aids turned up, it usually means I have ear wax in abundance. Tuesday, I went to C*stco's hearing aid dept., to get my ears checked. The manager checked my ears but neither had any wax, which was a big surprise to me. At the time she checked it, my right ear was completely stopped up. She advised me to see my doctor, who, she said, would put me on some sort of antihistamine or other sinus meds. My reaction: "Oh, joy, just what I need - more meds." She also made an appointment for me to get my hearing tested again in the middle of December, just in case the sinuses were not the cause of the problem. I took a Cl*ritin tonight. Wish me luck!
Father Kelvin, the Dapper Dean, has asked his multitude of fan, to suggest qualifications for a new bishop.
I suggested "nice, big boobies." But, to be honest, the other ideas, so far, are a bit boring. So, as I know this is the sort of thing you lot like to fight over, do pop over to WHAT'S IN KELVIN'S HEAD and add your twopenneth to the debate.
Bradley and Sheila were making passionate love in Bradley's mini van when suddenly Sheila, being a bit on the kinky side, yells out "Oh big boy, whip me, whip me!"
Bradley, not wanting to pass up this unique opportunity, obviously did not have any whips on hand, but in a flash of inspiration, he opens the window, snaps the antenna off his van and proceeds to whip Sheila until they both collapse in ecstasy.
About a week later, Sheila notices that the marks left by the whipping are starting to fester a bit so she goes to the doctor. The doctor takes one look at the wounds and asks, "Did you get these marks having sex?"
Sheila is embarrassed but eventually admits that yes she did.
Nodding his head knowingly, the doctor exclaims, "I thought so, because in all my years as a doctor you've got the worst case of van aerial disease that I've ever seen".
Whiteycat thinks this photograph is in need of some of your best caption suggestions. And so do I. So, off you go now!
Bishop Paul is not a man who rushes into things. It has to be admitted that in his heart of hearts he probably agrees with "us" more often than he agrees with "them" but he's old school about the job of bishop and is a bit of a stickler for the rules as you will see in his following missive to the troops. Therefore, this is big news, in deed. The "a bit left of centre" is beginning to budge.
November 16, 2009
To: Clergy of the Diocese of Bethlehem
From: Bishop Paul
Re: Pastoral Provision for Same-Sex Couples
In accordance with General Convention 2009 observation that that “the discernment of The Episcopal Church is that there are no theological barriers to blessing … same-sex relationships that are based on love, fidelity and lifelong commitment …” I offer the following interim measures, which you may bring to your parish or not, at your discretion.
As you know from our discussion at our Retreat, the General Convention, in addition to the words just quoted, empowered bishops to make “Generous Provision” regarding pastoral and liturgical ministry to same-sex couples. What follows are the pastoral provisions I feel able to make at this time, and I hope they may be seen as generous.
It hardly needs to be said that because this is a new thing, I will want to be kept well informed (and have provided for that in what follows), so that I can make adjustments as needed. This is not a burden on the couple, nor does it reflect on their integrity, but helps me do my job of being pastor to all the parishes.
I am not generally broadcasting this decision yet (although I suspect the word will be quickly out) because it is up to the clergy of a place to decide if they are interested, and then to take it up within the parish system.
1.General Provision
Clergy and Parishes wishing to move ahead with this pastoral provision in accordance with General Convention may do so, provided that I am notified of their decision, and that such notice indicates that at least a substantial number of the vestry are in agreement, or at the very least understand what is involved with the rector or priest-in-charge’s decision in making this change. (It is not usually appropriate for interim or supply clergy to lead such a change—talk to me.) Your notice to me should also indicate how (or whether) you are communicating this decision to the parish.
In preparing the vestry, I would strongly suggest that you all read and discuss pp. 1-98 of my book, cited below, or some other work that treats each of the theological topics involved in the rites.
For the present, authority to preside at rites of union is limited to parish clergy (exceptions may be applied for). We are doing a new thing, and I wish it to have a context for nurture and evaluation.
As with all unions, it is hoped that the church will be the site of the liturgy, and that when appropriate, the Holy Eucharist be celebrated.
Clergy of other denominations may be invited to participate, but an Episcopal priest should receive the vows and pronounce the nuptial blessing. For the time being, we will not have deacons presiding.
At least one of the contracting parties must be baptized. That is precisely the same barrier that applies to straight couples, and I feel no moral authority to suggest a different barrier for other couples.
Appropriate pastoral care and conversation must precede the liturgical celebration. I trust you, as I do with heterosexual couples, to apply pastoral judgment in setting up counseling. Divorced persons must receive permission in the usual way. There is a field of literature on counseling gay people, if you wish to learn of some of their special burdens, although I think that careful listening is probably your chief tool.
The service is to be recorded in the record books of the parish along with marriages.
2.Rites
For persons already legally joined in another state (whether by marriage or civil union) the BCP blessing of a Civil Marriage, including the prayers that begin on p. 428, should be used, with the language adjusted as necessary. The Nuptial Blessing is always used. The Holy Eucharist may be celebrated.
For persons not already so joined, use the Washington, D.C. liturgy set forth on pp. 135, ff. of my book, Same-Sex Unions: Stories and Rites (NY: Church Publishing, 2004). The Washington rite lays emphasis is on the making of a covenant, as does the BCP. (see links below, ed.)
Caveat: People whose unions are blessed need to understand that in Pennsylvania they are not married, and that your holding yourself out as doing a “marriage” without a license to perform it is a legal offense. So, all questions of theology aside, it is best to avoid the word in this Commonwealth and at this time.
Ordinarily, a bishop presides when one of the parties being joined is a priest or deacon.
A Reminder: no member of the clergy shall ever be compelled to perform a marriage or preside at a rite of union.
This diocese has come a very long way in a fairly short time. It is important that change be made gently and the people of all points of view experience themselves as listened to non-anxiously and that everybody continue to be valued.
Do you think this is what the Scots mean by "blooming heather?"
This is Toam, who has just popped out of an old friend of this blog who is sometimes called Heather and sometimes Joy (depending on her mood).
Joy/Heather writes:
Toam is a Hebrew name which means harmony, congruence, tessellation and the reconciliation of the seemingly insurmountable, conveying both a sense of everything fitting together and the gentle and creative bridging between two seemingly dichotomal ways of thinking and living.
Very lovely. But as life seems to be governed by God's sense of irony she will probably grow up to be a kick-boxer.
Posted by Kathy (Klady) on her
Facebook page (14th. November 2009)
My husband, the Very Rev. James M. Jensen, rector of Grace Church Utica, NY died unexpectedly late this afternoon. We were at an ordination and he had chest pains and we went to the hospital and he did not make it. His aorta ruptured and it was all over. Nothing more I can say now. We are in shock.
Such unexpected sorrow. And we continue to pray for Kathy, her family and friends, surrounding them with love as they mourn their loss.
Jim's funeral will be held on Thursday at 7 PM at Grace Church, Utica where a Requiem Eucharist will be celebrated by the Rt. Rev. Gladstone B. Adams, III, Bishop of Episcopal Diocese of Central New York . Calling hours will be on Thursday from 3-6 PM at Grace Church.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to
THE GRACE CHURCH MUSIC FUND or
THE SOCIETY OF ST. MARGARET – Haiti.
Susan Ulrich, who served on the search committee that helped bring Father Jensen to Utica, writes:
He was an outstanding priest in all the capacities in which he served, both in the parish, and in the Diocese, Ulrich said. He guided the Altar Society members in their work through the myriad of liturgies over the year, always in a caring manner and with a wonderful sense of humor. We all feel blessed to have had him serve as our Rector, for what we now realize was much too short a timeframe. He will be missed immensely by all of us who had the pleasure of knowing and working with him.
Tributes to Jim can be found on many blogs and websites this week. I draw your attention, in particular, to Kathy's own blog, LADY OF SILENCES and the website of
THE OBSERVER-DISPATCH.
***
And there was more cause for sorrow among us at the weekend.
From Janis:
RIP George Linn Bland, Jr.
3 July 1917 - 15 Nov. 2009
My father, George Linn Bland, Jr., departed from his 92-year-old body that has been wracked with cancer and pain, this evening at 7:42 p.m. Mom, Ann and I sat with him yesterday, and I was with him most of the day today. Early this morning we enjoyed listening to Duke Ellington cranked loud, and I vicariously lived through him while he was in an otherworldly jazz club.
We are happy he is now free of pain and in his heavenly studio. He'll stay with us in spirit, though the pain of losing his physical presence will take time to lessen.
Janis blogs as Juanuchis at JUANUCHIS' WAY.
***
Posted by Toujoursdan at CULTURE CHOC
(15th. November 2009):
I had to go back to emergency last night. My wound had reinfected, my heart rate was high and I was running a 100.2F fever. They checked for type 2 diabetes and my blood sugar was high but not in the diabetic range. The infection may be drug resistant. A nurse will be coming by to check on me and change my packing each day for the next week.
I will also have to postpone my trip to Argentina. Please keep me in your thoughts, prayers and good wishes.
***
From Grandmère Mimi:
Hi Jonathan,
I talked to Roseann a couple of hours ago. She sounds amazingly good. She said that she feels indescribably peaceful. She wants to spend as much time with Gary as possible but still will take phone calls and read email. She fell and hurt her wrist, but it's not broken.
Sue and I were discussing in emails how we would never have "met" but for Roseann, and that Roseann, Sue and I would never have "met" but for OCICBW, and how amazed we were that God uses technology to form loving communities. Roseann is in a state of special grace now, and we are all bound together in that grace.
I'll probably write about the phone call later, when I'm not so affected by it. Folks like to get word, and we did not talk about anything especially intimate.
You can eavesdrop on their conversation at WOUND UP BIRD.
And Mimi is right. We are all linked together by God's grace even though we live all over the place. This is very apparent when you think about our good friend, Roseann. The virtual world and the physical world have come together in a way that was not possible, even ten years ago. And, because of our connectedness, we are with Roseann now. I received this email from Roseann's priest, who is really helping our friend as she prepares to move into the presence of God. This is what the priesthood of all believers is about. Through the root of the vine all the branches are connected. Through our communion with each other we are with Terri as she is with Roseann and with Roseann as she is with Terri.
Hi Jonathan,
I was so glad to get your email. Thank you for your kind and encouraging words. Roseann has told me about her online community, and I know it gives her so much strength.
I will definitely let you know as things take place with Roseann. She remains at peace and, although she continues to become weaker physically, miraculous healing is taking place in ways never imagined. She is an incredible and well-loved person. We celebrated Eucharist at her home this week with family, friends, and church family. It was one of the most Spirit-filled times I've ever experienced.
I will be keeping you and all of Roseann's friends in my prayers as well.
Peace,
Teri 
Some new, Scottish folk music tonight from Lori Watson And Rule Of Three's new album, "Pleasure's Coin.". Lori is young fiddler and singer from the Borders and is part of the refreshing new folk scene in Scotland which has turned its back on playing the "invented" folk music that American tourists and drunk Glaswegians love so much but which is incredibly boring after you've heard the tune just once. I think there's only one tune - it certainly sounds like the same bloody tune over and over again. In stead, these young people dig deep for true authenticity whilst not being scared of innovation and borrowing from other folk traditions. They have rediscovered the dark side of the Scottish tradition, something English folk musicians never lost, and this makes their performances far more interesting.
From THE OBSERVER (theirs, not ours):
Ann Randall of Christ Church Anglican in Petrolia is a 2009 recipient of a Bishop's Award for Excellence in Ministry.
The Right Rev. Robert Bennett, Bishop of Huron, and the Right Rev. Terrance Dance, Bishop of Norfolk, announced this year's Anglican Diocese of London recipients -- who were honoured Nov. 1 at St. Paul's Cathedral in London.
Over the years, both the voice choir and handbell choir have been blessed with Randall's musical talents. As well, her natural comfort with children has been put to good use by the Sunday school. She currently convenes the Evening Ladies' Group, the Altar Flowers list and is routinely seen in the sacristy, keeping the holy hardware in good working order; and, also ensures the Chancel is shipshape
But the church kitchen is her special domain. Under Randall's proprietary direction, it comes alive for food that is blessed and shared.
Randall is a prayerful person who can be depended upon to populate the pews at Wednesday morning Eucharist and Bible study. She expresses her faith in thoughtful and generous acts of outreach to church members and to the local community. And her green thumb tends not only her own large garden at home, but the church garden as well.
COMMENT: Now, that's what I call Anglicanism!
Good on yer, pet. And to prove that isn't just snarkiness I am nonoured to make you OCICBW...'s
BRICK OF THE DAY
.... which is so much more high class than that silly Bishop's award.
From THE NATIONAL CATHOLIC REPORTER:
Cardinal Walter Kasper, the president of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity, has spoken for the first time about Anglicanorum Coetibus, the apostolic constitution for Anglicans. In an interview with L’Osservatore Romano over the weekend, the cardinal began by talking about a late night telephone call he received from Rowan Williams, the archbishop of Canterbury. Cardinal Kasper was, at the time, in Cyprus for the latest round of the joint Catholic-Orthodox theological commission.
“We talked about the meaning of the new apostolic constitution, and I reassured him about the continuation of our direct dialogue, as indicated by the Second Vatican Council and as the Pope wants,” Cardinal Kasper said. He added that the archbishop replied by saying “that this reaffirmation was very important to him.”
The cardinal said Williams “has maintained a balanced attitude since he was informed. Our personal relations are friendly and transparent. He is a man of spirituality, a theologian. Actually, today the only obstacle to ecumenical dialogue comes from internal tensions in the Anglican world.”
The apostolic constitution, he stressed, “is really understood as coming from the Second Vatican Council and the direct dialogue” that has come from it. He said there had been “great hopes” the Church and the Anglican Communion would come closer in relations, also because of a common tradition. But the expectations were “a little disappointed, especially recently” because of internal developments in the Anglican Communion, and he highlighted the problems over the ordination of women, women bishops, the consecration of a homosexual bishop, and the blessing of same-sex unions.
Cardinal Kasper said that the genesis and significance of the new apostolic constitution grew out of the direct experience of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity.
He added: “To think, as some commentators have, that the Pope made this decision because he only wants to ‘enlarge his empire’ is ridiculous.”
COMMENT: Ridiculous!
A Toowoomba Catholic primary school principal charged with failing to report a student's complaint of sexual assault by a teacher claimed he had followed the instructions of his superiors.
The principal, who cannot be named so as to protect the identity of the school and complainant children, told Toowoomba Magistrates Court he had sought the advice of his immediate superiors when told of the Year 4 student's allegations in September 2007, according to the Toowoomba Chronicle.
He told a packed courtroom that it was his understanding under the legislation that he was obliged to inform his employer of any such allegation and that is what he had done. He had followed their advice on how to proceed, he said.
Police say the defendant's actions in reporting the incident did not comply with that set out under the legislation and claim he could have contacted police in the first instance.
COMMENT: I've been in exactly this position myself. I reported somebody for taking a teenage boy to a sauna and photographing him in the nude. In the first instance the superior who I told, told nobody. Years later, when I found this out and told a new superior, they got the diocesan child care officer to look into it, but that person decided that it was not a case that should be reported to the police. If this school principal is telling the truth, I pray that he doesn't swing for it. My guess is that, like me, he would have assumed that he would lose his job if he did not do as he was told by those above him in his church. I mean, he only had the example of the past on which to make his decision and, let's face it, when it comes to dealing with whistleblowers, our bosses are not renown for applauding their people going public when it involves scandal.
Before you read the article below from the Ugandan Daily Monitor, I must insist that you study this photograph carefully. I know that's not a very pleasant prospect but it is very important that you do.
I have very few details myself but I have been informed by Father Jake that The Very Rev. James M. Jensen, husband of our very good friend, Klady, has died this weekend. I understand that this was unforeseen.
Klady's blog address is:
LADY OF SILENCES
Her blog is still open for comments and that is where your messages of condolence should be posted. Facebook friends can contact Klady there, where I believe there may be more details concerning Jim's death.
My email address will remain online, but OCICBW... will be closing down until tomorrow lunchtime as a mark of respect for our friend and because MadPriest finds it impossible to be funny, angry or clever at a time like this.
Klady, I am so sorry for your loss.
UPDATE: Jim Jensen's funeral will be Thursday at 7 pm with reception from 3 to 6 at Grace Church in Utica, NY.
From THE TELEGRAPH:
Anglo catholics and evangelicals had hoped the church would appoint dedicated male bishops to oversee them. But yesterday the Church's committee tasked with looking at the proposal failed to back the idea.
One leading traditionalist described the decision was "a great piece of wickedness" which forces people out of the church. However, supporters of women bishops welcomed it as "wonderful news".
COMMENT: I think I get it.
Getting rid of discrimination from the church is "a great piece of wickedness."
Continuing to oppress women and stopping them from realising their God given potential is "a matter of conscience."
Same old, same old, then.
From THE SYDNEY MORNING HERALD:
A British woman has lost her appeal against a ban on her noisy sex sessions, after a court heard how her marathon romps that kept neighbours awake sounded like someone being murdered. The married couple's "howling" lovemaking sounded "unnatural", "hysterical" and "like they are both in considerable pain", Newcastle Crown Court in north-east England heard. Neighbours at their home in Washington, County Durham, south of Newcastle, complained about the noise - as did passers-by and the postman.
At an earlier hearing the couple were banned from "shouting, screaming or vocalisation at such a level as to be a statutory nuisance", but the woman appealed under human rights laws against her conviction for breaching the ban.
At the appeal hearing a 10-minute recording of their sex sessions was played in court, which also heard how she tried covering her face with a pillow to muffle her cries of passion. She said she was unable to stop the din.
The judge rejected her claim.
"We are in no doubt whatsoever about the level of noise that can be heard in neighbouring properties, in the street and in the back lane," he said. "It certainly was intrusive and constituted a statutory nuisance. It was clearly of a very disturbing nature and it was also compounded by the duration - this was not a one-off, it went on for hours at a time. It is further compounded by the frequency of the episode - virtually every night.
The couple's next-door neighbour told the court: "It's just quite unnatural. The noise sounds like they are both in considerable pain. I cannot describe the noise. Totally excessive and I have never, ever heard anything like it. I put my television in my bedroom on as loud as it could go and they drown it out."
The local council set up special equipment in the neighbours' flat and recorded noise levels of between 30 to 40 decibels, peaking at 47 - as loud as a conversation in the very same room.
A council environmental health manager, said that, when the council confronted the couple, "The husband held his head in his hands but the wife seemed to find it quite amusing".
As I said at the beginning of this Escovedo extravaganza, our man is no one trick pony. Last night we went to sleep to the sensuous sounds of Escovedo laying down some slow grooves. Today, in complete contrast, we finish our retrospective with Escovedo rocking out at full tilt.
Turn it up for some heads down, no nonsense, mindless boogie!
The discussion about how to address sexuality issues at General Synod 2010 was interesting. It showed clearly that the Anglican Communion is not divided between catholics and evangelicals, or conservatives and liberals, or those who want the power to be at the centre and those who want power to be at the roots of the church. The real split in the Anglican Communion (and you can observe this same division in every other institution in the world) is between those who think that indaba-style discernment groups are really cool and oh so Christian and those who think they are a very silly idea and about as useful as a condom in a convent full of lesbian nuns.
Think about it! If you were a god, or the mother of a god, you could use your credentials to gatecrash any glitzy, celebrity filled party you wanted to. You could insist on front row seats at the Oscars and an invite to all Elizabeth II's banquets (God bless her majesty!). You could, if you wanted to, live the life of Reilly.
The thing I respect about OCICBW...'s favourite gigging divinities, Jesus, his mother, Mary, and Lord Jagannath is how they deliberately shun such shallow occasions. Not for them the backstabbing, vain frippery of opening nights and gala performances. Oh no. They would much rather slum it with us lowly types.
Take the Virgin Mary ("No. I mean TAKE the Virgin Mary!" said Joseph), she has just been spotted up a tree in Rönneholm Park, Malmo. No doubt, out for a stroll with her kid like any other mother on a fine, Autumn day in Sweden.
She was first noticed by Gunhild Joanna Jonasson, 69, who was cycling through the park the other day.
Ms Jonasson is certain that it is the BVM and she has proof. She has asked several people and her neighbour told her it was definitely her.
However, not everybody agrees. Jonasson stopped one woman who walked by and asked, "What do you see?". And she said: "Yes, it's Madonna." Obviously that woman was mistaken as Madonna is far more wooden.
Asked if she thought Mary hanging around would increase the popularity of the park, Jonasson replied, "Yes, I don't know. Maybe if it comes out on the web."
Well, we're sure pleased to be able help her on that one.
Ms Jonasson has recently returned from a trip to Lourdes. Perhaps the BVM stowed away in the luggage compartment of the coach. You get a lot of economic migrants trying to sneak into Sweden - their welfare system attracts them like an open jam jar attracts wasps.
Full details at SYDSVENSKAN.SE.
Thanks to our Swedish correspondent, Göran Koch-Swahne, for sending details of this latest sighting through to MadPriest Towers.
OF COURSE, I COULD BE WRONG...
AN OUTSIDER GOD BLOG.
Where the lunatics rave.
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I belong to an unholy disorder.
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Its that sort of complacency that makes having notorious, inflamatory, outspoken activists such as Elizabeth Kaeton, Louie Crew and Madpriest evil necessities. (DBW)
Comments will stay up if they are funny, interesting, completely psycho or any permutation of the three.
OF COURSE, I COULD BE WRONG... reserves the right to employ sarcasm, innuendo and other low forms of wit.
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