Saturday, 5 February 2011
CAPTION COMPETITION
If you are like me and live with a dog that walks all over you, I am sure you will empathise with the gentleman in this photo which has been sent in by PseudoPiskie. Get your own back for once by coming up with some really good captions.
Friday, 4 February 2011
MADPRIEST'S THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
Each diocese should have three bishops - a diocesan and two suffragans.
One suffragan should be the priests' bishop and the other the laity's bishop. The diocesan bishop should keep out of politics and employment stuff and just be all holy and that sort of thing.
One suffragan should be the priests' bishop and the other the laity's bishop. The diocesan bishop should keep out of politics and employment stuff and just be all holy and that sort of thing.
LOUD FRIDAY
This one's for serious lovers of the loud only. If you would not be comfortable with Throbbing Gristle, Suicide and The Jesus And Mary Chain coming at you through your headphones all at the same time, don't bother pressing play.
But those of you who have been looking for something a bit louder, dirtier and grungier than Throbbing Gristle, Suicide and The Jesus And Mary Chain coming at you through your headphones all at the same time, TURN IT UP TO ELEVEN!!!
BAND'S MYSPACE PAGE
PURCHASE VIA MADPRIEST'S AMAZON STORE
DEMOCRACY AS BULLY
From THE MIRROR:
It will soon be illegal to smoke in New York’s Times Square or Central Park. The city will extend its ban from bars and restaurants to lighting up in any of the city’s 1,700 parks, along the coastline and pedestrian areas.
Mayor Michael Bloomberg said: “New Yorkers who go to our parks will be able to breathe even cleaner air.”
Democrat Robert Jackson said: “It’s totalitarian.”
COMMENT: And it is totalitarian. But not the totalitarianism of Kim Il-sung and other despots like him. It is a totalitarianism that is becoming increasingly widespread in the so-called democracies of the world. It is happening because there has been a change in the understanding of what democracy is about. Throughout the developed world, but especially in the U.S.A., people are viewing the democratic process as permission for the majority to bully minorities.
There is little difference between this anti-smoking legislation and the overturning of the right for gay couples to marry in certain states. Smoking is being banned because the majority find it unpleasant and believe it is harmful to both the smoker and non-smokers. Same sex marriage is opposed because the majority find it offensive and believe it harmful to society.
I find it ironic that the government of the United States is panicking about the possibility of Northern Africa and the Middle East embracing democracy because this they think will inevitably lead to Muslims oppressing non-Muslims because Muslims will make up the majority of the voters. If countries, such as Egypt, embraced real democracy (a democracy that accepts that the majority has a duty of care towards those sections of society which, because of their numbers, are never part of the majority), then there will be no problems. But, of course, if Egypt embraces democracy as it is currently playing out in the States, then Copts and others might as well pack their bags and get the hell out of the country now. No wonder Obama is so scared, he is viewing the future possibilities from inside the perverted expression of democracy of his own nation.
In any case, this smoking ban is divorced from reality and totally unfair and arbitrary. There are far worse pollutants going into the lungs of New Yorkers everyday than tobacco smoke. From traffic and industrial fumes to overbearing perfume and people farting in crowded subway trains, you can't avoid the stench of city life. Just think of the number of times a vegetarian in New York has to breath in the smell of the cooking flesh of sentient creatures everyday. Of course, under the terms of the new democracy, if vegetarians ever became the majority in New York, there would be no more pastrami on rye, that's for certain.
It will soon be illegal to smoke in New York’s Times Square or Central Park. The city will extend its ban from bars and restaurants to lighting up in any of the city’s 1,700 parks, along the coastline and pedestrian areas.
Mayor Michael Bloomberg said: “New Yorkers who go to our parks will be able to breathe even cleaner air.”
Democrat Robert Jackson said: “It’s totalitarian.”
COMMENT: And it is totalitarian. But not the totalitarianism of Kim Il-sung and other despots like him. It is a totalitarianism that is becoming increasingly widespread in the so-called democracies of the world. It is happening because there has been a change in the understanding of what democracy is about. Throughout the developed world, but especially in the U.S.A., people are viewing the democratic process as permission for the majority to bully minorities.
There is little difference between this anti-smoking legislation and the overturning of the right for gay couples to marry in certain states. Smoking is being banned because the majority find it unpleasant and believe it is harmful to both the smoker and non-smokers. Same sex marriage is opposed because the majority find it offensive and believe it harmful to society.
I find it ironic that the government of the United States is panicking about the possibility of Northern Africa and the Middle East embracing democracy because this they think will inevitably lead to Muslims oppressing non-Muslims because Muslims will make up the majority of the voters. If countries, such as Egypt, embraced real democracy (a democracy that accepts that the majority has a duty of care towards those sections of society which, because of their numbers, are never part of the majority), then there will be no problems. But, of course, if Egypt embraces democracy as it is currently playing out in the States, then Copts and others might as well pack their bags and get the hell out of the country now. No wonder Obama is so scared, he is viewing the future possibilities from inside the perverted expression of democracy of his own nation.
In any case, this smoking ban is divorced from reality and totally unfair and arbitrary. There are far worse pollutants going into the lungs of New Yorkers everyday than tobacco smoke. From traffic and industrial fumes to overbearing perfume and people farting in crowded subway trains, you can't avoid the stench of city life. Just think of the number of times a vegetarian in New York has to breath in the smell of the cooking flesh of sentient creatures everyday. Of course, under the terms of the new democracy, if vegetarians ever became the majority in New York, there would be no more pastrami on rye, that's for certain.
THE PRAYER LIST - 4TH. FEBRUARY 2011
From THE IRISH TIMES:
Authorities in Turkey are investigating after 17 people were killed in two separate explosions in the capital. The blasts shook the same industrial area of Ankara hours apart yesterday. A possible malfunctioning of an oxygen tank is believed to have caused the first explosion, which partly collapsed two storeys of a factory. Rescue workers have so far pulled seven bodies from the rubble. The second blast sparked a huge blaze which engulfed several workshops and raged throughout the night. Ten bodies have been recovered so far.
Posted by Ormonde Plater at THROUGH THE DUST:
The following have been murdered in the New Orleans metro area this week:
1/27 Justin Martin 26 M Shot Orleans
1/27 Dorian Meyers 24 M Shot Orleans
1/28 Terrill Andrews 26 M Shot Orleans
1/28 Joseph Emilien 35 M Shot Orleans
2/2 Information not yet released (killed last night in Gentilly, Male)
Please pray for the victims, their murderers, and their families.
***
From an Australian friend of Ann Fontaine:
Some of the images I have seen on TV tonight are shocking. Tully and Mission Beach look as though they've been hit by a nuclear bomb - almost completely flattened. Trees are just sticks - if not broken in two or knocked over, then stripped of all leaves. Power is out through parts of the North coast, and in some cases will be for weeks. All cities have had some damage, though some dodged the bullet to some extent. Townsville was threatened with running out of water tonight, but I think they will have an eleventh hour repair that might save them.
Sugar cane and banana crops are completely ruined. This area produces 90% of Australia's bananas. The pity is that they had another major cyclone in 2006 which similarly flattened their crops - now it has happened to them again.
There's been more heavy rain behind Yasi, and risks of flash flooding up and down the coast. Now the beast is nearly at Mt Isa, almost 900 km inland, and still a cyclone - amazing. It will turn into a rain depression and go down through the centre. They are even predicting more flooding for Victoria out of this lot - remarkable.
***
From JCF:
I ask your prayers:
At my father's request (more importantly, w/ his $$$), I have applied for health insurance.
I haven't been able to afford it for 5 years . . . and I'm afraid that fact (in itself) may be held against me---to say nothing of my "pre-existing conditions" (although, w/ the passage of the new law, those aren't SUPPOSED to count against me anymore. Y'know, the law that GOP "activist judge" just ruled unconstitutional >:-0).
At any rate (!), I've applied. Here's my limbo notification:
"Thank you for submitting your application for healthcare coverage. Your application is currently under review. We will notify you as soon as possible of acceptance or declination of your application."
Please pray I'm accepted? And that the rates don't send BOTH my dad and me to the homeless camp?
***
Posted at WOUNDED BIRD:
Update on Aileen.
From her husband, Mike:
(Tuesday, February 1, 2011, 8:20 p.m.)
How quickly things can change & change again. Yesterday was good, but at about 3:30 a.m. Aileen stopped breathing due to a "mucus plug" that blocked her airway. Thankfully, the nurse was on the ball enough to call a code on her and they were able to suction out her lungs, get it clear, and she was breathing again fairly quickly. She doesnt seem to have suffered any further permanent damage, but it was a horrible call to receive for sure.
(Wednesday, February 2, 2011, 9:00 p.m.)
Aileen has bounced back incredibly well from what we are going to just call a "speed bump". Today when visiting her, as I was leaving to pick up the boys from school I leaned over to kiss her goodbye and she kissed me back. She actually puckered up and kissed me. Amazing feeling! Later I had Kaleb do the same thing, and he screamed so loud the nurses thought something was wrong, but it was Kaleb saying "Mommy kissed me!"
***
Posted by Themethatisme at CONSCIENTISATION:
E-mails circulated at work on Tuesday...
"As you are aware, the recent Comprehensive Spending Review signalled that funding for public sector activity would reduce. The indicative statements indicate a reduction in income next year of around £3.3 million for Newcastle College. This will result in some staff who work in either Newcastle College or Group Services being placed at risk of redundancy."
This will be the third redundancy process I have been engaged in, during my working life. A long way to go in the settlement of the process but the one thing I can take from previous experience is that I know it's survivable. Yet again I am appalled by the behaviour of those who seem to feel that these occasions are little more than an opportunity to advance their own cause and pursue such skulduggery as to make life more complicated and uncertain for others.
This is a hefty cut. The numbers amount to roughly one in six of the existing staff complement in the FE/HE sector of the college group. It is chilling and difficult for the staff involved.
***
Posted by Tim Lewis at LIFE IS FULL OF SURPRISES:
There is an empty shop on Main Street.
Leo has eventually packed up his scissors and razors and left. An unwelcome and enforced retirement, but how can a barber compete with the greed and intentions of those who wish to maximize the profits made on their building.
Penolan at MENOPAUSAL STONERS is going through a very stressful time at the moment. She is having to do unpleasant things and it's getting her down.
***
The stress and ultimate disappointment of a recent brush with possible employment has left Viv feeling a bit helpless and got at by fate (a feeling I know only too well). She has posted a "rant" about this at ZEN AND THE ART OF TIGHTROPE WALKING.
If you would like to light
a candle as part of your
prayer, please click HERE,
then click on BEGIN and
follow the instructions.
Our group name is
Laika (case sensitive);
please type this into
the appropriate box
when requested.
Authorities in Turkey are investigating after 17 people were killed in two separate explosions in the capital. The blasts shook the same industrial area of Ankara hours apart yesterday. A possible malfunctioning of an oxygen tank is believed to have caused the first explosion, which partly collapsed two storeys of a factory. Rescue workers have so far pulled seven bodies from the rubble. The second blast sparked a huge blaze which engulfed several workshops and raged throughout the night. Ten bodies have been recovered so far.
Posted by Ormonde Plater at THROUGH THE DUST:
The following have been murdered in the New Orleans metro area this week:
1/27 Justin Martin 26 M Shot Orleans
1/27 Dorian Meyers 24 M Shot Orleans
1/28 Terrill Andrews 26 M Shot Orleans
1/28 Joseph Emilien 35 M Shot Orleans
2/2 Information not yet released (killed last night in Gentilly, Male)
Please pray for the victims, their murderers, and their families.
***
From an Australian friend of Ann Fontaine:
Some of the images I have seen on TV tonight are shocking. Tully and Mission Beach look as though they've been hit by a nuclear bomb - almost completely flattened. Trees are just sticks - if not broken in two or knocked over, then stripped of all leaves. Power is out through parts of the North coast, and in some cases will be for weeks. All cities have had some damage, though some dodged the bullet to some extent. Townsville was threatened with running out of water tonight, but I think they will have an eleventh hour repair that might save them.
Sugar cane and banana crops are completely ruined. This area produces 90% of Australia's bananas. The pity is that they had another major cyclone in 2006 which similarly flattened their crops - now it has happened to them again.
There's been more heavy rain behind Yasi, and risks of flash flooding up and down the coast. Now the beast is nearly at Mt Isa, almost 900 km inland, and still a cyclone - amazing. It will turn into a rain depression and go down through the centre. They are even predicting more flooding for Victoria out of this lot - remarkable.
***
From JCF:
I ask your prayers:
At my father's request (more importantly, w/ his $$$), I have applied for health insurance.
I haven't been able to afford it for 5 years . . . and I'm afraid that fact (in itself) may be held against me---to say nothing of my "pre-existing conditions" (although, w/ the passage of the new law, those aren't SUPPOSED to count against me anymore. Y'know, the law that GOP "activist judge" just ruled unconstitutional >:-0).
At any rate (!), I've applied. Here's my limbo notification:
"Thank you for submitting your application for healthcare coverage. Your application is currently under review. We will notify you as soon as possible of acceptance or declination of your application."
Please pray I'm accepted? And that the rates don't send BOTH my dad and me to the homeless camp?
***
Posted at WOUNDED BIRD:
Update on Aileen.
From her husband, Mike:
(Tuesday, February 1, 2011, 8:20 p.m.)
How quickly things can change & change again. Yesterday was good, but at about 3:30 a.m. Aileen stopped breathing due to a "mucus plug" that blocked her airway. Thankfully, the nurse was on the ball enough to call a code on her and they were able to suction out her lungs, get it clear, and she was breathing again fairly quickly. She doesnt seem to have suffered any further permanent damage, but it was a horrible call to receive for sure.
(Wednesday, February 2, 2011, 9:00 p.m.)
Aileen has bounced back incredibly well from what we are going to just call a "speed bump". Today when visiting her, as I was leaving to pick up the boys from school I leaned over to kiss her goodbye and she kissed me back. She actually puckered up and kissed me. Amazing feeling! Later I had Kaleb do the same thing, and he screamed so loud the nurses thought something was wrong, but it was Kaleb saying "Mommy kissed me!"
***
Posted by Themethatisme at CONSCIENTISATION:
E-mails circulated at work on Tuesday...
"As you are aware, the recent Comprehensive Spending Review signalled that funding for public sector activity would reduce. The indicative statements indicate a reduction in income next year of around £3.3 million for Newcastle College. This will result in some staff who work in either Newcastle College or Group Services being placed at risk of redundancy."
This will be the third redundancy process I have been engaged in, during my working life. A long way to go in the settlement of the process but the one thing I can take from previous experience is that I know it's survivable. Yet again I am appalled by the behaviour of those who seem to feel that these occasions are little more than an opportunity to advance their own cause and pursue such skulduggery as to make life more complicated and uncertain for others.
This is a hefty cut. The numbers amount to roughly one in six of the existing staff complement in the FE/HE sector of the college group. It is chilling and difficult for the staff involved.
***
Posted by Tim Lewis at LIFE IS FULL OF SURPRISES:
There is an empty shop on Main Street.
Leo has eventually packed up his scissors and razors and left. An unwelcome and enforced retirement, but how can a barber compete with the greed and intentions of those who wish to maximize the profits made on their building.
Penolan at MENOPAUSAL STONERS is going through a very stressful time at the moment. She is having to do unpleasant things and it's getting her down.
***
The stress and ultimate disappointment of a recent brush with possible employment has left Viv feeling a bit helpless and got at by fate (a feeling I know only too well). She has posted a "rant" about this at ZEN AND THE ART OF TIGHTROPE WALKING.
If you would like to light
a candle as part of your
prayer, please click HERE,
then click on BEGIN and
follow the instructions.
Our group name is
Laika (case sensitive);
please type this into
the appropriate box
when requested.
Thursday, 3 February 2011
ANNOUNCEMENT FROM MEG AND JACK
The White Stripes would like to announce that today, February 2nd, 2011, their band has officially ended and will make no further new recordings or perform live.
The reason is not due to artistic differences or lack of wanting to continue, nor any health issues as both Meg and Jack are feeling fine and in good health.
It is for a myriad of reasons, but mostly to preserve What is beautiful and special about the band and have it stay that way.
Meg and Jack want to thank every one of their fans and admirers for the incredible support they have given throughout the 13 plus years of the White Stripes’ intense and incredible career.
Third Man Records will continue to put out unreleased live and studio recordings from The White Stripes in their Vault Subscription record club, as well as through regular channels.
Both Meg and Jack hope this decision isn’t met with sorrow by their fans but that it is seen as a positive move done out of respect for the art and music that the band has created. It is also done with the utmost respect to those fans who’ve shared in those creations, with their feelings considered greatly.
With that in mind the band have this to say:
“The White Stripes do not belong to Meg and Jack anymore. The White Stripes belong to you now and you can do with it whatever you want. The beauty of art and music is that it can last forever if people want it to. Thank you for sharing this experience. Your involvement will never be lost on us and we are truly grateful.”
Sincerely,
Meg and Jack White
The White Stripes
Stupid! Stupid! Stupid! Stupid! Stupid!
The reason is not due to artistic differences or lack of wanting to continue, nor any health issues as both Meg and Jack are feeling fine and in good health.
It is for a myriad of reasons, but mostly to preserve What is beautiful and special about the band and have it stay that way.
Meg and Jack want to thank every one of their fans and admirers for the incredible support they have given throughout the 13 plus years of the White Stripes’ intense and incredible career.
Third Man Records will continue to put out unreleased live and studio recordings from The White Stripes in their Vault Subscription record club, as well as through regular channels.
Both Meg and Jack hope this decision isn’t met with sorrow by their fans but that it is seen as a positive move done out of respect for the art and music that the band has created. It is also done with the utmost respect to those fans who’ve shared in those creations, with their feelings considered greatly.
With that in mind the band have this to say:
“The White Stripes do not belong to Meg and Jack anymore. The White Stripes belong to you now and you can do with it whatever you want. The beauty of art and music is that it can last forever if people want it to. Thank you for sharing this experience. Your involvement will never be lost on us and we are truly grateful.”
Sincerely,
Meg and Jack White
The White Stripes
Stupid! Stupid! Stupid! Stupid! Stupid!
WHERE DOES HE FIND THEM?
Oh, dear.
Oh, dear.
Oh, dear.
This is truly dreadful and there's a whole album full of stuff equally as bad as this.
I'm giving away 200 days off purgatory to anyone who gets all the way through it, which I will increase to 500 days if you can honestly say that you are a fan of classic, soul music.
I warn you, though. Some of you are going to cry real tears.
HEADLINE OF THE DAY
From CHRISTIAN TODAY:
No, Ted. You're as queer as a nine bob note.
You're in denial because of your belief system.
No, Ted. You're as queer as a nine bob note.
You're in denial because of your belief system.
THE UNDESERVING FAR FROM POOR
From THE INDEPENDENT:
The Department for International Development gave £1.85m to the Foreign Office to help to pay for the costs of Pope Benedict's visit to England and Scotland last September. They insisted that the money for the visit did not come from ring-fenced funds used for overseas aid. However, it admitted it would come out of central funds – used to support DFID projects around the world.
The "somewhat surprising" transfer to the Foreign Office was queried following a detailed investigation of DFID's annual accounts. The committee called on ministers to explain how diverting development cash to subsidise the trip met global aid rules.
Malcolm Bruce, who chairs the international development select committee, said voters would struggle to understand why DFID money was involved. "Many people will be as surprised as we were to discover that UK aid money was used to fund the Pope's visit last year," he said.
Initial figures published in November put the cost to Whitehall departments of the four-day state visit in November at £10m.
The Department for International Development gave £1.85m to the Foreign Office to help to pay for the costs of Pope Benedict's visit to England and Scotland last September. They insisted that the money for the visit did not come from ring-fenced funds used for overseas aid. However, it admitted it would come out of central funds – used to support DFID projects around the world.
The "somewhat surprising" transfer to the Foreign Office was queried following a detailed investigation of DFID's annual accounts. The committee called on ministers to explain how diverting development cash to subsidise the trip met global aid rules.
Malcolm Bruce, who chairs the international development select committee, said voters would struggle to understand why DFID money was involved. "Many people will be as surprised as we were to discover that UK aid money was used to fund the Pope's visit last year," he said.
Initial figures published in November put the cost to Whitehall departments of the four-day state visit in November at £10m.
THOSE POOR AUSTRALIANS
It will be open air services from now on at this Queensland church thanks to Cyclone Yasi and its storm surge.
Photo from THE HERALD SUN.
Photo from THE HERALD SUN.
"IN THE BACKROOM SHE WAS EVERYBODY'S DARLIN'"
Headline of the day or what?!!!
Oh, it's what I dreamt of as a teenager.
Thanks to Cathy and YFROG for this one.
Oh, it's what I dreamt of as a teenager.
Thanks to Cathy and YFROG for this one.
DIOCESE PLAYS NASTY
From THE BIRMINGHAM MAIL:
A union representing a former Midland vicar seeking damages against the Church of England over claims he was bullied out of his home and job has accused the church of using delaying tactics after his case was adjourned by nine months.
Revd Mark Sharpe, is seeking damages against the church after alleging it failed to provide him with protection from harassment while he was posted at Hanley Broadheath, near Worcester, at the end of 2009. He has claimed that he and his family suffered more than four years of abuse at the hands of parishioners. Incidents included their pet dog being poisoned, car tyres being slashed, central heating oil being stolen and internet and phone connections being cut.
His case against the church was due to be heard at a Birmingham Employment Tribunal this week. But it was adjourned after the church allegedly submitted thousands of pages of legal documentation to Mr Sharpe’s legal team just days before the hearing.
Union spokeswoman Rachael Maskell said: “The church has had nearly three years to make its disclosures in this very serious case, and waited, cynically, to just a few hours before the proceedings to unleash mountains of documents on the tribunal, ensuring that Mark and his lawyers have no time to study these papers. The bishops are not above the law and should be on the side of the oppressed. Delay in such a sensitive case has caused great pain to Mark and his family.”
Sam Setchell, spokeswoman for the Diocese and Bishop of Worcester, called the accusations “highly inaccurate and extremely misleading” and said the tribunal documents were disclosed in good time. She said: “We believe there is no legal basis for this claim."
COMMENT: Well, if a human resources bod at Newcastle Diocese can tell a union rep that any priest who dared to take them to court would never work in the Church of England again, it seems to me that the Church of England is quite capable of being guilty of any amount of cynicism.
They will be claiming victory but they will, in the end, lose everything. Either they are too dumb to realise that such displays of uncharitableness are exactly what has turned fair-minded, good English people off the church or they just don't care because "they're alright, Jack." I fear the latter may be nearest the truth.
A union representing a former Midland vicar seeking damages against the Church of England over claims he was bullied out of his home and job has accused the church of using delaying tactics after his case was adjourned by nine months.
Revd Mark Sharpe, is seeking damages against the church after alleging it failed to provide him with protection from harassment while he was posted at Hanley Broadheath, near Worcester, at the end of 2009. He has claimed that he and his family suffered more than four years of abuse at the hands of parishioners. Incidents included their pet dog being poisoned, car tyres being slashed, central heating oil being stolen and internet and phone connections being cut.
His case against the church was due to be heard at a Birmingham Employment Tribunal this week. But it was adjourned after the church allegedly submitted thousands of pages of legal documentation to Mr Sharpe’s legal team just days before the hearing.
Union spokeswoman Rachael Maskell said: “The church has had nearly three years to make its disclosures in this very serious case, and waited, cynically, to just a few hours before the proceedings to unleash mountains of documents on the tribunal, ensuring that Mark and his lawyers have no time to study these papers. The bishops are not above the law and should be on the side of the oppressed. Delay in such a sensitive case has caused great pain to Mark and his family.”
Sam Setchell, spokeswoman for the Diocese and Bishop of Worcester, called the accusations “highly inaccurate and extremely misleading” and said the tribunal documents were disclosed in good time. She said: “We believe there is no legal basis for this claim."
COMMENT: Well, if a human resources bod at Newcastle Diocese can tell a union rep that any priest who dared to take them to court would never work in the Church of England again, it seems to me that the Church of England is quite capable of being guilty of any amount of cynicism.
They will be claiming victory but they will, in the end, lose everything. Either they are too dumb to realise that such displays of uncharitableness are exactly what has turned fair-minded, good English people off the church or they just don't care because "they're alright, Jack." I fear the latter may be nearest the truth.
DON'T HURRY BACK!
From THE MAIL:
An immigration officer tried to rid himself of his wife by adding her name to a list of terrorist suspects. He used his access to security databases to include his wife on a watch list of people banned from boarding flights into Britain because their presence in the country is 'not conducive to the public good'. As a result the woman was unable for three years to return from Pakistan after travelling to the county to visit family. The tampering went undetected until the immigration officer was selected for promotion and his wife name was found on the suspects' list during a vetting inquiry.
The Home Office confirmed today that the officer has been sacked for gross misconduct.
An immigration officer tried to rid himself of his wife by adding her name to a list of terrorist suspects. He used his access to security databases to include his wife on a watch list of people banned from boarding flights into Britain because their presence in the country is 'not conducive to the public good'. As a result the woman was unable for three years to return from Pakistan after travelling to the county to visit family. The tampering went undetected until the immigration officer was selected for promotion and his wife name was found on the suspects' list during a vetting inquiry.
The Home Office confirmed today that the officer has been sacked for gross misconduct.
FOR ELLIE
The above photoshoppie has been brought to you, in part, thanks to the photography department of Aljazeera which, unfortunately, they can't get in most of the U.S.A. because it's been blacked out. In stead, they have that bastion of impartiality, the Fox News Network. Democracy now!
ELSEWHERE ON THE OCICBW... EXPERIENCE
ST. LAIKA'S: We are incredibly honoured to be able to publish a sermon based on the Candlemas readings written and preached by our good friend, THEMETHATISME. It really is a good one. Go read!
THE ANCHORHOLD: "The Richness Of This Day: Candlemas"
THE ANCHORHOLD: "The Richness Of This Day: Candlemas"
THE PRAYER LIST - 3RD. FEBRUARY 2011
We pray for the many places in the world where there is civil unrest. We pray for those killed and injured, an end to the violence, that peaceful dissent will bring about the changes that are being demanded and that democracy without oppression will be embraced in all the nations.
From ALJAZEERA:
Egyptians in the capital were tense amid fears that renewed clashes could occur between pro-democracy protesters and President Hosni Mubarak's loyalists in the central Tahrir [Liberation] Square on Thursday. Activists in Cairo confirmed that there were more demonstrators – from both sides – on their way to the square.
Car-loads of regime loyalists were reportedly headed towards Tahrir Square, the epicentre of the demonstrations. They seemed organised and commanded by ringleaders, Al Jazeera correspondents observed. This came after heavy gunfire aimed at pro-democracy demonstrators left seven people dead early on Thursday morning, according to local doctors. The government puts the figure at five deaths, but confirmed that about 800 people have been injured.
Violent clashes began on Wednesday when Mubarak's supporters charged into Tahrir Square, clashing with the pro-democracy demonstrators gathered there for days. Pro-democracy protesters began to defend themselves as camel and horse riding men forcefully barrelled their way into the square, which had been peaceful for more than a week. A bloody clash ensued as the assailing men used knives, clubs and other weapons.
From THE FINANCIAL TIMES:
Thousands of people have taken to the streets of the Yemeni capital Sana’a in what the opposition have dubbed a “day of rage” against the president, Ali Abdullah Saleh. Government supporters also rallied in Sana’a on Thursday, and their demonstration was estimated by some eyewitnesses to be even bigger than the opposition’s.
As of mid-morning, the atmosphere was peaceful, in spite of warnings by the pro-government press that demonstrations would bring about chaos.
From THE WASHINGTON POST:
An independent doctors group says political violence in Zimbabwe has left at least three people hospitalized. Armed riot police on Wednesday sealed off the downtown offices of the Harare City Council as it was besieged by mobs chanting slogans of longtime President Robert Mugabe's party, witnesses said. Council staff fled the building.
Activists say Zimbabwe is already seeing a surge in political violence and intimidation as the government prepares for national elections even though a date for the vote has not even been set.
***
From AFP:
Haitians were left waiting Thursday for promised presidential poll results set to determine who will qualify for the election run-off, as officials failed to release the outcome. As of 2:30 am (0730 GMT) Thursday, reporters were waiting at a planned press conference, but no results had been released.
Meanwhile, international security forces were gearing up for renewed unrest.
***
Posted at DIOBETH NEWSPIN:
Pray for our young men and women who have died in Iraq and Afghanistan, and for their families:
Joshua R. Campbell, 22
Shawn A. Muhr, 26
Omar Soltero, 28
Anthony Venetz Jr., 30
Leslie D. Williams, 36
Pray also for the fallen heroes also of our coalition partners, and for the citizens of Iraq and Afghanistan who have died, unnamed and unknown to us, and for those who mourn ... and for an end to this endless war.
***
Cathy brings this story to us because it has been very much on her heart since she read it.
From THE RSPCA:
We received a call about a colt (young male horse) seen collapsed by the gate of a field in Thameside in Chertsey, Surrey, at 9.50am on Wednesday, 26 January. But when RSPCA Inspector Nicky Thorne arrived at the field near Chertsey lock only 20 minutes later, there appeared to be no sign of a sick pony in the field, only some other equines. A witness said the foal was now down at the other end of the field after two people had driven onto the land in a small black car. They had tied the animal's front legs together with a strap, attached the strap to the car and dragged the foal some 600 yards, leaving him out of sight of the road.
Inspector Thorne said, "When I heard about the foal being dragged I expected to see a dead body, but nothing could have prepared me for what I was about to see, even after years in this job. There was a tarpaulin which was covered in logs and stones, and as I pulled it back there was a pony, weak, barely alive and terrified, just dumped under a plastic sheet and left to die in the dark with his front legs strapped together and his head twisted around over his back where it had flopped as he was dragged, and he was too weak to move it back to a comfortable position himself."
The RSPCA and the fire service carried the young black-and-white colt, named Babe by RSPCA officers because he was so young and sweet, to a horse lorry and he was taken to nearby veterinary stables for treatment. But sadly, despite this valiant effort to save the young pony, he could hang on no longer and he died soon after he arrived there. A post mortem examination of the six-month-old pony revealed he had bad diarrhoea and was dehydrated and underweight with a very heavy worm problem.
Cathy has sent in the following prayer by Albert Schweitzer to accompany this story.
Hear our humble prayer, O God, for our friends, the animals, especially for those who are suffering; for animals that are overworked, underfed, and cruelly treated; for all the wistful creatures in captivity, that beat their wings against bars; for any that are hunted or lost or deserted, or frightened or hungry; for all that must be put to death. We entreat for them all Thy mercy and pity, and for those who deal with them, we ask a heart of compassion and gentle hands and kindly words. Make us, ourselves, to be true friends to animals and so to share the blessings of the Merciful.
THANKSGIVINGS
Posted by Shelly at MAYBETHINKING:
Life is good. Back in the summer I never thought this day would come. But today I scheduled the yearly payment for my long term care policy with funds from my regular checking account. No dipping into savings. I made enough this year to pay it proper. Next month I'll complete the process of replacing the last of my baby teeth with an implant. Paid out of my pocket-again, no dipping into my savings. I have two great clients for my marketing consulting business. I enjoy working with them and am thankful every day. In a week I'll celebrate the 16 month anniversary of my last cigarette. In the late spring I joined Planet Fitness. Today I'm no longer obese and a little over a third of the way to my goal weight. Last week I used a Groupon-like offer and bought 12 visits at Body Business for $30. Today I swam laps for the first time in 15 years. In November I took advantage of the City's no-interest financing, and the federal government rebate program, and got a new heating and air conditioning system for my house. I'm toasty.
***
Posted by Diana at THE KITCHEN DOOR:
Dave got a new job -hooray! We're very excited about this, as he'd been feeling ready to move on from the old one for a while. We'd been expecting a new job to also mean relocation, and it won't.
***
From REUTERS:
Australians voiced relief and surprise after one of the world's most powerful cyclones spared the nation's northeast coast from expected devastation on Thursday, with no reported deaths despite winds tearing off roofs and toppling trees.
If you would like to light
a candle as part of your
prayer, please click HERE,
then click on BEGIN and
follow the instructions.
Our group name is
Laika (case sensitive);
please type this into
the appropriate box
when requested.
From ALJAZEERA:
Egyptians in the capital were tense amid fears that renewed clashes could occur between pro-democracy protesters and President Hosni Mubarak's loyalists in the central Tahrir [Liberation] Square on Thursday. Activists in Cairo confirmed that there were more demonstrators – from both sides – on their way to the square.
Car-loads of regime loyalists were reportedly headed towards Tahrir Square, the epicentre of the demonstrations. They seemed organised and commanded by ringleaders, Al Jazeera correspondents observed. This came after heavy gunfire aimed at pro-democracy demonstrators left seven people dead early on Thursday morning, according to local doctors. The government puts the figure at five deaths, but confirmed that about 800 people have been injured.
Violent clashes began on Wednesday when Mubarak's supporters charged into Tahrir Square, clashing with the pro-democracy demonstrators gathered there for days. Pro-democracy protesters began to defend themselves as camel and horse riding men forcefully barrelled their way into the square, which had been peaceful for more than a week. A bloody clash ensued as the assailing men used knives, clubs and other weapons.
From THE FINANCIAL TIMES:
Thousands of people have taken to the streets of the Yemeni capital Sana’a in what the opposition have dubbed a “day of rage” against the president, Ali Abdullah Saleh. Government supporters also rallied in Sana’a on Thursday, and their demonstration was estimated by some eyewitnesses to be even bigger than the opposition’s.
As of mid-morning, the atmosphere was peaceful, in spite of warnings by the pro-government press that demonstrations would bring about chaos.
From THE WASHINGTON POST:
An independent doctors group says political violence in Zimbabwe has left at least three people hospitalized. Armed riot police on Wednesday sealed off the downtown offices of the Harare City Council as it was besieged by mobs chanting slogans of longtime President Robert Mugabe's party, witnesses said. Council staff fled the building.
Activists say Zimbabwe is already seeing a surge in political violence and intimidation as the government prepares for national elections even though a date for the vote has not even been set.
***
From AFP:
Haitians were left waiting Thursday for promised presidential poll results set to determine who will qualify for the election run-off, as officials failed to release the outcome. As of 2:30 am (0730 GMT) Thursday, reporters were waiting at a planned press conference, but no results had been released.
Meanwhile, international security forces were gearing up for renewed unrest.
***
Posted at DIOBETH NEWSPIN:
Pray for our young men and women who have died in Iraq and Afghanistan, and for their families:
Joshua R. Campbell, 22
Shawn A. Muhr, 26
Omar Soltero, 28
Anthony Venetz Jr., 30
Leslie D. Williams, 36
Pray also for the fallen heroes also of our coalition partners, and for the citizens of Iraq and Afghanistan who have died, unnamed and unknown to us, and for those who mourn ... and for an end to this endless war.
***
Cathy brings this story to us because it has been very much on her heart since she read it.
From THE RSPCA:
We received a call about a colt (young male horse) seen collapsed by the gate of a field in Thameside in Chertsey, Surrey, at 9.50am on Wednesday, 26 January. But when RSPCA Inspector Nicky Thorne arrived at the field near Chertsey lock only 20 minutes later, there appeared to be no sign of a sick pony in the field, only some other equines. A witness said the foal was now down at the other end of the field after two people had driven onto the land in a small black car. They had tied the animal's front legs together with a strap, attached the strap to the car and dragged the foal some 600 yards, leaving him out of sight of the road.
Inspector Thorne said, "When I heard about the foal being dragged I expected to see a dead body, but nothing could have prepared me for what I was about to see, even after years in this job. There was a tarpaulin which was covered in logs and stones, and as I pulled it back there was a pony, weak, barely alive and terrified, just dumped under a plastic sheet and left to die in the dark with his front legs strapped together and his head twisted around over his back where it had flopped as he was dragged, and he was too weak to move it back to a comfortable position himself."
The RSPCA and the fire service carried the young black-and-white colt, named Babe by RSPCA officers because he was so young and sweet, to a horse lorry and he was taken to nearby veterinary stables for treatment. But sadly, despite this valiant effort to save the young pony, he could hang on no longer and he died soon after he arrived there. A post mortem examination of the six-month-old pony revealed he had bad diarrhoea and was dehydrated and underweight with a very heavy worm problem.
Cathy has sent in the following prayer by Albert Schweitzer to accompany this story.
Hear our humble prayer, O God, for our friends, the animals, especially for those who are suffering; for animals that are overworked, underfed, and cruelly treated; for all the wistful creatures in captivity, that beat their wings against bars; for any that are hunted or lost or deserted, or frightened or hungry; for all that must be put to death. We entreat for them all Thy mercy and pity, and for those who deal with them, we ask a heart of compassion and gentle hands and kindly words. Make us, ourselves, to be true friends to animals and so to share the blessings of the Merciful.
THANKSGIVINGS
Posted by Shelly at MAYBETHINKING:
Life is good. Back in the summer I never thought this day would come. But today I scheduled the yearly payment for my long term care policy with funds from my regular checking account. No dipping into savings. I made enough this year to pay it proper. Next month I'll complete the process of replacing the last of my baby teeth with an implant. Paid out of my pocket-again, no dipping into my savings. I have two great clients for my marketing consulting business. I enjoy working with them and am thankful every day. In a week I'll celebrate the 16 month anniversary of my last cigarette. In the late spring I joined Planet Fitness. Today I'm no longer obese and a little over a third of the way to my goal weight. Last week I used a Groupon-like offer and bought 12 visits at Body Business for $30. Today I swam laps for the first time in 15 years. In November I took advantage of the City's no-interest financing, and the federal government rebate program, and got a new heating and air conditioning system for my house. I'm toasty.
***
Posted by Diana at THE KITCHEN DOOR:
Dave got a new job -hooray! We're very excited about this, as he'd been feeling ready to move on from the old one for a while. We'd been expecting a new job to also mean relocation, and it won't.
***
From REUTERS:
Australians voiced relief and surprise after one of the world's most powerful cyclones spared the nation's northeast coast from expected devastation on Thursday, with no reported deaths despite winds tearing off roofs and toppling trees.
If you would like to light
a candle as part of your
prayer, please click HERE,
then click on BEGIN and
follow the instructions.
Our group name is
Laika (case sensitive);
please type this into
the appropriate box
when requested.
BETTER LATE THAN NEVER, I SUPPOSE
My server is still messing me about. It's behaving erratically and is taking forever to upload files. But I have, at long last, managed to get it to upload the Eucharist for Candlemas which should have been available to you all yesterday. Even though it is a bit redundant now you might like to listen to it just for the music, which is rather good. There's even a Kate Rusby track.
You can stream or download it from the ST. LAIKA'S page.
You can stream or download it from the ST. LAIKA'S page.
Wednesday, 2 February 2011
BLOG NOTICE
I spent hours today putting together a lovely service for Candlemas and my server has been down all evening. So, I haven't been able to post it. I'm really annoyed and I'm going to bed now in a right grotty mood.
GIVE TILL IT TICKLES!
Due to your amazing and gratefully received generosity, my January appeal raised $549.45.
It is becoming increasingly likely that my ministry will be mainly through St. Laika's and OCICBW... which will rely on your continued generosity, with the rest of the money I need to live on coming from part time work. I would prefer this to be church related, but I am not that hopeful that it will turn out that way. I expect I'll "wind up working in a gas station" or something like that. At the moment, and this is the main reason for me being busy elsewhere, Mrs MP is working on something that will be a big, and irreversible, step towards realising this plan (more details to follow when things are sorted).
However, I am still unemployed and it's the beginning of the month, which means it's "pay the bills" time. So, if, and only if, you have some cash to spare, please consider making a one-off donation or, if you are one of the few people in the world not facing imminent redundancy, perhaps you might consider signing up to OCICBW...'s attractive subscription plan.
Anyway, here's the usual blurb:
The administrator of this site is the Reverend Jonathan Hagger (a.k.a. MadPriest). He is an ordained Church of England priest but he receives no salary from any church or any other employer.
At present his ministry consists entirely of his work at St. Laika's and OCICBW...
However, he likes to eat occasionally and his blogs cost quite a bit of money to run. So, in true Anglican style a collection plate is being made available for your donations (via PayPal).
You do not need to have a PayPal account to subscribe or donate via the buttons below.
It is becoming increasingly likely that my ministry will be mainly through St. Laika's and OCICBW... which will rely on your continued generosity, with the rest of the money I need to live on coming from part time work. I would prefer this to be church related, but I am not that hopeful that it will turn out that way. I expect I'll "wind up working in a gas station" or something like that. At the moment, and this is the main reason for me being busy elsewhere, Mrs MP is working on something that will be a big, and irreversible, step towards realising this plan (more details to follow when things are sorted).
Anyway, here's the usual blurb:
The administrator of this site is the Reverend Jonathan Hagger (a.k.a. MadPriest). He is an ordained Church of England priest but he receives no salary from any church or any other employer.
At present his ministry consists entirely of his work at St. Laika's and OCICBW...
However, he likes to eat occasionally and his blogs cost quite a bit of money to run. So, in true Anglican style a collection plate is being made available for your donations (via PayPal).
You do not need to have a PayPal account to subscribe or donate via the buttons below.
MAD DAD MAKES UP FOR ALL
HIS NON-PC BLONDE JOKES
A typical bloke, having split from his latest girlfriend, decided to take a holiday. He booked himself on a cruise and proceeded to have the time of his life, that is, until the ship sank. He found himself on an island with no other people, no supplies, nothing, only bananas and coconuts. After about four months, he is lying on the beach one day when the most gorgeous woman he has ever seen rows up to the shore.
In disbelief, he asks, 'Where did you come from? How did you get here?'
She replies, 'I rowed from the other side of the island. I landed here when my cruise ship sank.'
'Amazing,' he notes. 'You were really lucky to have a row boat wash up with you.'
'Oh, this thing?' explains the woman. 'I made the boat out of raw material I found on the island. The oars were whittled from gum tree branches. I wove the bottom from palm branches, and the sides and stern came from a Eucalyptus tree.'
'But, where did you get the tools?" the man asks.
'Oh, that was no problem,' replied the woman. 'On the south side of the island, a very unusual stratum of alluvial rock is exposed. I found if I fired it to a certain temperature in my kiln, it melted into ductile iron. I used that for tools and used the tools to make the hardware.’
The guy is stunned.
'Let's row over to my place,' she says.
After half an hour of rowing, she docks the boat at a small wharf. As the man looks to shore, he nearly falls off the boat. Before him is stone walk leading to an exquisite bungalow painted in blue and white. While the woman ties up the rowboat with an expertly woven hemp rope, the man can only stare ahead, dumb struck.
As they walk into the house, she says casually, 'It's not much but I call it home. Sit down, please. Would you like a drink?'
'No! No thank you,' he blurts out, still dazed. 'I can't take another drop of coconut juice.'
'It's not coconut juice,' winks the woman. 'I have a still. How would you like a Pina Colada?'
Trying to hide his continued amazement, the man accepts, and they sit down on her couch to talk. After they have exchanged their stories, the woman announces, 'I'm going to slip into something more comfortable. Would you like to take a shower and shave? There is a razor upstairs in the bathroom cabinet.'
No longer questioning anything, the man goes into the bathroom. There, in the cabinet, a razor made from a piece of tortoise bone. Two shells honed to a hollow ground edge are fastened on to its end inside a swivel mechanism.
'This woman is amazing,' he muses. 'What next?'
When he returns, she greets him wearing nothing but vines, strategically positioned, and smelling faintly of gardenias. She beckons for him to sit down next to her.’
‘Tell me,' she begins suggestively, slithering closer to him, 'We've been out here for many months. You've been lonely. There's something I'm sure you really feel like doing right now, something you've been longing for?'
She stares into his eyes.
He swallows excitedly and tears start to form in his eyes.
"Friging hell," he says. "Don't tell me you've got Sky Sports as well!"
In disbelief, he asks, 'Where did you come from? How did you get here?'
She replies, 'I rowed from the other side of the island. I landed here when my cruise ship sank.'
'Amazing,' he notes. 'You were really lucky to have a row boat wash up with you.'
'Oh, this thing?' explains the woman. 'I made the boat out of raw material I found on the island. The oars were whittled from gum tree branches. I wove the bottom from palm branches, and the sides and stern came from a Eucalyptus tree.'
'But, where did you get the tools?" the man asks.
'Oh, that was no problem,' replied the woman. 'On the south side of the island, a very unusual stratum of alluvial rock is exposed. I found if I fired it to a certain temperature in my kiln, it melted into ductile iron. I used that for tools and used the tools to make the hardware.’
The guy is stunned.
'Let's row over to my place,' she says.
After half an hour of rowing, she docks the boat at a small wharf. As the man looks to shore, he nearly falls off the boat. Before him is stone walk leading to an exquisite bungalow painted in blue and white. While the woman ties up the rowboat with an expertly woven hemp rope, the man can only stare ahead, dumb struck.
As they walk into the house, she says casually, 'It's not much but I call it home. Sit down, please. Would you like a drink?'
'No! No thank you,' he blurts out, still dazed. 'I can't take another drop of coconut juice.'
'It's not coconut juice,' winks the woman. 'I have a still. How would you like a Pina Colada?'
Trying to hide his continued amazement, the man accepts, and they sit down on her couch to talk. After they have exchanged their stories, the woman announces, 'I'm going to slip into something more comfortable. Would you like to take a shower and shave? There is a razor upstairs in the bathroom cabinet.'
No longer questioning anything, the man goes into the bathroom. There, in the cabinet, a razor made from a piece of tortoise bone. Two shells honed to a hollow ground edge are fastened on to its end inside a swivel mechanism.
'This woman is amazing,' he muses. 'What next?'
When he returns, she greets him wearing nothing but vines, strategically positioned, and smelling faintly of gardenias. She beckons for him to sit down next to her.’
‘Tell me,' she begins suggestively, slithering closer to him, 'We've been out here for many months. You've been lonely. There's something I'm sure you really feel like doing right now, something you've been longing for?'
She stares into his eyes.
He swallows excitedly and tears start to form in his eyes.
"Friging hell," he says. "Don't tell me you've got Sky Sports as well!"
KIWI P.M. LANDS HIMSELF IN "HOT" WATER
From THE TELEGRAPH:
John Key, New Zealand's prime minister, has been criticised after describing the British actress Liz Hurley as "hot". Speaking during an interview on Radio Sport, he listed Hurley among his celebrity crushes.
Asked if he would like to be like the Australian cricketer Shane Warne, the New Zealand prime minister, said: "Yeah, well, given, his current liaisons with Liz Hurley. I like Liz Hurley, actually. I reckon she is hot."
He also listed Jessica Alba and Angelina Jolie on his "hot" list.
Sue Kedgley, a human rights campaigner, told The Daily Mail: "It's a bit stereotypical and rather odd coming from a prime minister. They do seem a little bit 1960s comments, rather than what you would expect in the 21st century."
CAPTION COMPETITION
Here is a photo of Sue Kedgley with her Green Party colleague, Keith Locke.
Suggested captions should fully reflect the fact that OCICBW... is well stuck in the 1960s when it comes to eye candy, but well up to date in its laissez-faire attitude towards the sex of the person being gawped at.
Sue Kedgley is on the left in the photo.
John Key, New Zealand's prime minister, has been criticised after describing the British actress Liz Hurley as "hot". Speaking during an interview on Radio Sport, he listed Hurley among his celebrity crushes.
Asked if he would like to be like the Australian cricketer Shane Warne, the New Zealand prime minister, said: "Yeah, well, given, his current liaisons with Liz Hurley. I like Liz Hurley, actually. I reckon she is hot."
He also listed Jessica Alba and Angelina Jolie on his "hot" list.
Sue Kedgley, a human rights campaigner, told The Daily Mail: "It's a bit stereotypical and rather odd coming from a prime minister. They do seem a little bit 1960s comments, rather than what you would expect in the 21st century."
CAPTION COMPETITION
Here is a photo of Sue Kedgley with her Green Party colleague, Keith Locke.
Suggested captions should fully reflect the fact that OCICBW... is well stuck in the 1960s when it comes to eye candy, but well up to date in its laissez-faire attitude towards the sex of the person being gawped at.
Sue Kedgley is on the left in the photo.
UPDATE ON BRIGID
Our sort of gal!
Our sort of saint!
* After John Henry Newman.
This new word is copyright MadPriest 2011.
VERY, VERY, VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
By colkoch at ENLIGHTENED CATHOLICISM:
Re: Egypt
I've also had some other thoughts, and one of those was how debilitating it can be for a country to be under the control of one man and his cronies for the length of time Mubarak has been in control in Egypt. . .
But I also realized I have actually undergone a very similar lengthy rule and it has been just as hope deflating for me as Mubarak has been for Egyptians. That rule was JPII's rule over Catholicism and now by extension Pope Benedict's. Egyptians have accused Mubarak of surrounding himself with yes men who won't tell him what he doesn't want to hear. The same has also been said of JPII, especially in the latter half of his reign. . .
The demographics in Egypt are really amazing when I think about them. Sixty percent of the population is under thirty with ninety percent unemployment amongst the college educated. Those are not statistics which spell hope for the sustainable future of Egypt. Lose the allegiance of the twenty somethings, frustrate them and their hopes, and you have lost their children and their childrens' children.
Catholicism has a similar problems. The Vatican has spent more than thirty years frustrating hope for change in the clerical nature of the church. Forget ideas about transparency and accountability and avenues for hearing the sensus fidelium, under the JPII brigade the church can't even make progress on a married priesthood. The message has come loud and clear: better millions of lost laity than one married priest in the Roman rite. That's an incredibly stupid message. But as far as women are concerned, the really stupid message is to keep promoting excommunication for the ordination of a women, but not for the male priest who rapes a woman's child. Actually, that is beyond incredibly stupid. Lose the women and with the women their children, and the church as a viable institution is thoroughly cooked.
In short, their are real lessons for the Vatican in what is transpiring in Egypt. There is such a thing as killing hope by over staying in a long reign of autocratic and unresponsive governing. Failure to address problems does not make them go away just because a given dictator dictates so. Eventually the 'simple' people choose to move on. The question is will Benedict and company be any better at getting these lesson than President Mubarak. If history is any indication, I doubt it.
COMMENT: Go read the rest of this article! It is the most insightful commentary on Roman Catholicism in the contemporary world that I have read for a long time.
Re: Egypt
I've also had some other thoughts, and one of those was how debilitating it can be for a country to be under the control of one man and his cronies for the length of time Mubarak has been in control in Egypt. . .
But I also realized I have actually undergone a very similar lengthy rule and it has been just as hope deflating for me as Mubarak has been for Egyptians. That rule was JPII's rule over Catholicism and now by extension Pope Benedict's. Egyptians have accused Mubarak of surrounding himself with yes men who won't tell him what he doesn't want to hear. The same has also been said of JPII, especially in the latter half of his reign. . .
The demographics in Egypt are really amazing when I think about them. Sixty percent of the population is under thirty with ninety percent unemployment amongst the college educated. Those are not statistics which spell hope for the sustainable future of Egypt. Lose the allegiance of the twenty somethings, frustrate them and their hopes, and you have lost their children and their childrens' children.
Catholicism has a similar problems. The Vatican has spent more than thirty years frustrating hope for change in the clerical nature of the church. Forget ideas about transparency and accountability and avenues for hearing the sensus fidelium, under the JPII brigade the church can't even make progress on a married priesthood. The message has come loud and clear: better millions of lost laity than one married priest in the Roman rite. That's an incredibly stupid message. But as far as women are concerned, the really stupid message is to keep promoting excommunication for the ordination of a women, but not for the male priest who rapes a woman's child. Actually, that is beyond incredibly stupid. Lose the women and with the women their children, and the church as a viable institution is thoroughly cooked.
In short, their are real lessons for the Vatican in what is transpiring in Egypt. There is such a thing as killing hope by over staying in a long reign of autocratic and unresponsive governing. Failure to address problems does not make them go away just because a given dictator dictates so. Eventually the 'simple' people choose to move on. The question is will Benedict and company be any better at getting these lesson than President Mubarak. If history is any indication, I doubt it.
COMMENT: Go read the rest of this article! It is the most insightful commentary on Roman Catholicism in the contemporary world that I have read for a long time.
THE PRAYER LIST - 2ND. FEBRUARY 2011
Posted at GAY MARRIED CALIFORNIAN:
The Iowa House today, by a vote of 62-37, passed an amendment (House Joint Resolution 6) that would deny any form of legal recognition for gay couples. The amendment seeks to prohibit not only the freedom to marry for gay couples, but also civil unions or domestic partnerships.
The bill now moves on to the Iowa Senate, where Senate Majority Leader Mike Gronstal has vowed to fight attempts to pass the amendment. If passed through both legislative bodies in two consecutive General Assemblies, the issue could be on the ballot as soon as 2013.
A bill repealing the New Hampshire's gay marriage law would use the same statute to prohibit both incest and same-sex marriage. Bates's bill lists the marriages that would be prohibited to all men and women. Besides same-sex partners, they include marriages to their children, aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.
The bill states that any marriage recognized by New Hampshire before the adoption of the law would remain intact. But any same-sex marriage performed out of state after the law is passed - for example, a marriage performed in Massachusetts - would not be recognized as valid in New Hampshire.
***
Posted at THE FRIENDS OF JAKE:
IT's father passed away last night. Notes from her:
"I am currently stuck in Washington DC by the storm, and just found out that my dad died last night, unexpectedly. I will not be doing any blogging for a while. My wife is trying to get me a flight home and thence to the Bay Area to be with Mom. Expect me to be out of touch for a while."
***
From Viv:
I've got myself into a bit of a fix. I applied quite idly for a job yesterday, not imagining I was in with a chance. But within half an hour I'd got rung up about it and the short version is I have an interview tomorrow. Today I discover that there are only 2 other candidates, rather than 5. Sounds good.
But the problem is to do the job, I have to drive. And not only that, drive a large van on occasions. I have a phobia of driving. I really don't know what to do. I am in with a chance for the highest paying job I have ever had even a smidge of a chance at and am terrified that I will get it. I really thought I was punching way above my weight with this one and had not a single chance. It appears they singled my cv out.
Please pray for the right outcome and for courage. I am scared stupid now.
***
Posted by 8TH. DAY:
I have returned to therapy to face my final darkness. It is hard and scary work and difficult to write about here.
Work has become a nightmare with a major project about to die because they can no longer get financing for all the bullshit conditions that were imposed of them by the politicians. It has now become my job to go to all the people/groups who had their hands out and ask them for concessions. Some of these people are the scum of the earth, know they have the upper hand, and are just jerking me around. It is my responsibility to negotiate this project back on track but I’m really tired of falling on the sword for it.
***
Posted by Dianne at FORKS OFF THE MOMENT:
Hope's Uncle Ray aka Toon Man is having surgery tomorrow (2nd. February) and she wanted to send out a global message of love as only she can.
***
Posted by Paul at BYZIGENOUS BUDDHAPALIAN:
At Facebook I had asked prayers for Nate. He is suddenly single, has been out of work for a while, and struggles with depression. He feels lost but he knows you lot will be praying for him.
I ask your prayers for Kathy who is looking for work.
I ask your prayers for my sister Shirley and her husband Jack. They are the ones in the car accident last week. Shirley had a upper GI today and her heart acted up, raced then slowed, so they admitted her. She is not doing well physically or emotionally right now.
If you would like to light
a candle as part of your
prayer, please click HERE,
then click on BEGIN and
follow the instructions.
Our group name is
Laika (case sensitive);
please type this into
the appropriate box
when requested.
The Iowa House today, by a vote of 62-37, passed an amendment (House Joint Resolution 6) that would deny any form of legal recognition for gay couples. The amendment seeks to prohibit not only the freedom to marry for gay couples, but also civil unions or domestic partnerships.
The bill now moves on to the Iowa Senate, where Senate Majority Leader Mike Gronstal has vowed to fight attempts to pass the amendment. If passed through both legislative bodies in two consecutive General Assemblies, the issue could be on the ballot as soon as 2013.
A bill repealing the New Hampshire's gay marriage law would use the same statute to prohibit both incest and same-sex marriage. Bates's bill lists the marriages that would be prohibited to all men and women. Besides same-sex partners, they include marriages to their children, aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.
The bill states that any marriage recognized by New Hampshire before the adoption of the law would remain intact. But any same-sex marriage performed out of state after the law is passed - for example, a marriage performed in Massachusetts - would not be recognized as valid in New Hampshire.
***
Posted at THE FRIENDS OF JAKE:
IT's father passed away last night. Notes from her:
"I am currently stuck in Washington DC by the storm, and just found out that my dad died last night, unexpectedly. I will not be doing any blogging for a while. My wife is trying to get me a flight home and thence to the Bay Area to be with Mom. Expect me to be out of touch for a while."
***
From Viv:
I've got myself into a bit of a fix. I applied quite idly for a job yesterday, not imagining I was in with a chance. But within half an hour I'd got rung up about it and the short version is I have an interview tomorrow. Today I discover that there are only 2 other candidates, rather than 5. Sounds good.
But the problem is to do the job, I have to drive. And not only that, drive a large van on occasions. I have a phobia of driving. I really don't know what to do. I am in with a chance for the highest paying job I have ever had even a smidge of a chance at and am terrified that I will get it. I really thought I was punching way above my weight with this one and had not a single chance. It appears they singled my cv out.
Please pray for the right outcome and for courage. I am scared stupid now.
***
Posted by 8TH. DAY:
I have returned to therapy to face my final darkness. It is hard and scary work and difficult to write about here.
Work has become a nightmare with a major project about to die because they can no longer get financing for all the bullshit conditions that were imposed of them by the politicians. It has now become my job to go to all the people/groups who had their hands out and ask them for concessions. Some of these people are the scum of the earth, know they have the upper hand, and are just jerking me around. It is my responsibility to negotiate this project back on track but I’m really tired of falling on the sword for it.
***
Posted by Dianne at FORKS OFF THE MOMENT:
Hope's Uncle Ray aka Toon Man is having surgery tomorrow (2nd. February) and she wanted to send out a global message of love as only she can.
***
Posted by Paul at BYZIGENOUS BUDDHAPALIAN:
At Facebook I had asked prayers for Nate. He is suddenly single, has been out of work for a while, and struggles with depression. He feels lost but he knows you lot will be praying for him.
I ask your prayers for Kathy who is looking for work.
I ask your prayers for my sister Shirley and her husband Jack. They are the ones in the car accident last week. Shirley had a upper GI today and her heart acted up, raced then slowed, so they admitted her. She is not doing well physically or emotionally right now.
If you would like to light
a candle as part of your
prayer, please click HERE,
then click on BEGIN and
follow the instructions.
Our group name is
Laika (case sensitive);
please type this into
the appropriate box
when requested.
Tuesday, 1 February 2011
TWITFACE CHIT CHAT (3)
"TwitFace Chit Chat," is an occasional posting in which I simply give you a word, or short phrase, and you then just waffle on about the subject in any way you see fit. Nobody (except Grandmère Mimi and Cathy, of course) will be told off for going off thread.
If the number of comments on any one TwitFace post gets to fifty, all those who have commented will receive 500 days off purgatory. Should the comments ever reach one hundred I will grant all the participants a general plenary. Now, you don't get offers like that on Facebook!
Your subject for discussion today is:
MY ONE WEAKNESS
Off you go then!
If the number of comments on any one TwitFace post gets to fifty, all those who have commented will receive 500 days off purgatory. Should the comments ever reach one hundred I will grant all the participants a general plenary. Now, you don't get offers like that on Facebook!Your subject for discussion today is:
MY ONE WEAKNESS
Off you go then!
A MESSAGE FROM THE SHEILA WHO MUST BE OBEYED
If anyone would like or is willing to feature a "St Laika's on Facebook" badge on their own blog, please let me know and I will send the HTML.
Cathy
Cathy
THANK GOD FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT!
From UKPA:
The Government should intervene to prevent the Church of England from rejecting plans to allow women to be bishops on a "technicality", senior MPs have said.
Anglican dioceses are currently considering whether to pass the landmark legislation before it returns to the General Synod, the Church's ruling body, next year. But a cross-party group of influential MPs are concerned that the measure will not be passed by the General Synod due to a technicality. Frank Field has tabled an early day motion calling for the removal of the Church's current exemption from equality laws relating to gender discrimination so that the loophole cannot be used by the Church to dismiss the measure.
The Government should intervene to prevent the Church of England from rejecting plans to allow women to be bishops on a "technicality", senior MPs have said.
Anglican dioceses are currently considering whether to pass the landmark legislation before it returns to the General Synod, the Church's ruling body, next year. But a cross-party group of influential MPs are concerned that the measure will not be passed by the General Synod due to a technicality. Frank Field has tabled an early day motion calling for the removal of the Church's current exemption from equality laws relating to gender discrimination so that the loophole cannot be used by the Church to dismiss the measure.
ELSEWHERE ON THE OCICBW... EXPERIENCE
THE ANCHORHOLD: "Something About Connectedness"
ST. LAIKA'S: A service of Compline on the Feast Of Brigid with lots of lovely music, especially if you like a bit of the Irish.
ST. LAIKA'S: A service of Compline on the Feast Of Brigid with lots of lovely music, especially if you like a bit of the Irish.
HOLY PRECEDENT
So, there you have it. Women bishops are in the tradition of the Celtic Church (and, therefore, the British Church) and the Orthodox Church of which the Celtic Church was part (Brigid is a revered saint in Orthodoxy).
Pray for the Church, Saint Brigid. Especially for its stupid men who falsify history because of their fear of women. Amen.
MADPRIEST'S THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
I teach what Jesus taught.
Everything else is just somebody else's opinion.
Everything else is just somebody else's opinion.
LUCKY SO AND SO OF THE DAY
Meredith Gould at
MORE MEREDITH GOLD
found this wonderful clock
at a thrift store recently
and bought it for $6.00.
I want it!!!
CAPTION COMPETITION
This is Bishop Mark of the Diocese of Moray, Ross and Caithness. I've met him. He's a good sort, a bit enthusiastic and is totally committed to the tradition of eccentric bishops. His blog is called BISHOP MARK'S BLOG.
The photo above, as you will have guessed is the one I want your captions for. The photo below is of Bishop Mark standing next to a longstanding and good friend of OCICBW.... Beards are popular in Caithness and Ross - it gets bloody cold up there!
The photo above, as you will have guessed is the one I want your captions for. The photo below is of Bishop Mark standing next to a longstanding and good friend of OCICBW.... Beards are popular in Caithness and Ross - it gets bloody cold up there!
THE PRAYER LIST - 1ST. FEBRUARY 2011
From AFP:
A Somali soldier opened fire on a crowd in Mogadishu on Monday, killing at least 17 civilians and injuring scores, hospital sources and witnesses said. The soldier triggered a high-calibre anti-aircraft gun mounted on top of a truck, and a hail of bullets ripped into the crowd after it jammed, some witnesses said. A security official, Mohamed Ali, said authorities were investigating reports from some witnesses that the soldier set off the gun by accident.
***
From SKY NEWS:
A volcano in southern Japan has erupted again, damaging homes in surrounding towns. After the latest eruption at Shinmoe Peak, the Japan Meteorological Agency has extended the exclusion zone around the crater to 4km. Experts fear lava could now spill out of the crater as pressure increases from within the the volcano's lava dome, leading to further blasts. Over 400 residents in the town of Takaharu, located at the foot of volcano Shinmoe Peak, have been forced to stay overnight at temporary evacuation centres.
Posted by Gurdur at THE HEATHEN HUB:
It has been announced and confirmed over Twitter that the last remnants of the internet still in operation in Egypt have been shut down. It has also been said that mobile phone nets are beginning to be shut down as well. Earlier in the day, several Al Jazeera reporters had been arrested, and then released, but their equipment confiscated. In other words, the Egyptian regime under Mubarak and the army are attempting a complete, utter shutdown of information and communications.
***
Posted by Rick+
at RICK'S GREEN GRASS:
This morning, I heard of the passing of Sam Caldwell, a priest in our diocese. Sam was a gentle soul who served at my church Trinity in Reno for many years after his retirement as rector in Carson City.
Rest in peace, Sam. Rise in glory!
Posted by David G. at THE HEARSE RIDE:
I haven't been on here since December. I sure could write about my failing life with all the shit that keeps happening, but I don't want to bore anyone.
***
THANKSGIVING
A very good friend of OCICBW... underwent some medical tests at the end of last week. The results could have easily shown something really nasty but they only showed something unpleasant but liveable with. That sometimes the worst does not happen, we praise the Lord.
If you would like to light
a candle as part of your
prayer, please click HERE,
then click on BEGIN and
follow the instructions.
Our group name is
Laika (case sensitive);
please type this into
the appropriate box
when requested.
A Somali soldier opened fire on a crowd in Mogadishu on Monday, killing at least 17 civilians and injuring scores, hospital sources and witnesses said. The soldier triggered a high-calibre anti-aircraft gun mounted on top of a truck, and a hail of bullets ripped into the crowd after it jammed, some witnesses said. A security official, Mohamed Ali, said authorities were investigating reports from some witnesses that the soldier set off the gun by accident.
***
From SKY NEWS:
A volcano in southern Japan has erupted again, damaging homes in surrounding towns. After the latest eruption at Shinmoe Peak, the Japan Meteorological Agency has extended the exclusion zone around the crater to 4km. Experts fear lava could now spill out of the crater as pressure increases from within the the volcano's lava dome, leading to further blasts. Over 400 residents in the town of Takaharu, located at the foot of volcano Shinmoe Peak, have been forced to stay overnight at temporary evacuation centres.
Posted by Gurdur at THE HEATHEN HUB:
It has been announced and confirmed over Twitter that the last remnants of the internet still in operation in Egypt have been shut down. It has also been said that mobile phone nets are beginning to be shut down as well. Earlier in the day, several Al Jazeera reporters had been arrested, and then released, but their equipment confiscated. In other words, the Egyptian regime under Mubarak and the army are attempting a complete, utter shutdown of information and communications.
***
Posted by Rick+at RICK'S GREEN GRASS:
This morning, I heard of the passing of Sam Caldwell, a priest in our diocese. Sam was a gentle soul who served at my church Trinity in Reno for many years after his retirement as rector in Carson City.
Rest in peace, Sam. Rise in glory!
Posted by David G. at THE HEARSE RIDE:
I haven't been on here since December. I sure could write about my failing life with all the shit that keeps happening, but I don't want to bore anyone.
***
THANKSGIVING
A very good friend of OCICBW... underwent some medical tests at the end of last week. The results could have easily shown something really nasty but they only showed something unpleasant but liveable with. That sometimes the worst does not happen, we praise the Lord.
If you would like to light
a candle as part of your
prayer, please click HERE,
then click on BEGIN and
follow the instructions.
Our group name is
Laika (case sensitive);
please type this into
the appropriate box
when requested.
MADPRIEST'S THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
Science is the study of the nature of God.
Theology is the study of the nature of humans.
Theology is the study of the nature of humans.
Monday, 31 January 2011
WITH ALL YOUR SOUL - THE PODCAST (5)
Double click, or whatever, on MP3 File above to download audio file or click on the play arrow to stream.
This podacst can be downloaded from iTunes by clicking HERE and then clicking on "View In iTunes."
MP3 File
Being Without You - Maurice Williams
Congratulations Baby - Barbara West
Got You On My Mind Again - Billy Joe Young
Young Girl - Frank Lynch
Street Serenade - Craig Thomas
Better To Have Loved And Lost - Honey Cone
Rain Manjunemix - The Cates Fomin Project
Girls In Their Summer Dresses - Brian Hobbs
Just Chillin - Elliot Levine
Pocket Full Of Money - Frank Frost
Soul Jerk It, Baby - Jeb Stuart
Mr. Clean - Winfield Parker
Keep The Faith - Surewill
Uptown - David P. Stevens
Connected - Mettaphor
Coming Back To You - Maxine Brown
People Will Make You Say Things - Marlena (Lady Black Lace)
I Hate To Leave You - Heavenly Scent
Turn It Around - Carl Walker
Dawn Till Bus - Hill Briggs
All I Want Is You - Zilla Mayes
Funky Soul - David Batiste And The Gladiators
You Don’t Know Like I Know - Sam And Dave
Memphis Soul Stew - King Curtis
Things Get Better - Eddie Floyd
Shoes Bobby Bland
Ain't No Soul (Left In These Ole Shoes) - Ronnie Milsap
Just Walk In My Shoes - Gladys Knight
I'll Be Around - Terri Wells
Pacific Dream - Tina Winson
Ain't No Stoppin' Us Now - McFadden & Whitehead
COULD THIS BE THE JOB FOR MADPRIEST?
I have just received this unsolicited email
from someone called Dwight Rodriquez:
To provide minimum customer service?!!!
Not only would I really enjoy that I think
I would be very good at it. I'm sure
Grandmère Mimi will give me a reference.
from someone called Dwight Rodriquez:
To provide minimum customer service?!!!
Not only would I really enjoy that I think
I would be very good at it. I'm sure
Grandmère Mimi will give me a reference.
THE PRAYER LIST - 31ST. JANUARY 2011
We continue to pray for the people of Egypt that they achieve the democracy they are calling for. We pray that when this is achieved it will not lead to increased oppression of minorities and that it doesn't have a negative effect on attempts to bring about peace between Israel and its neighbours.
***
Our friend, Father Dougal, has had a really crappy time over the last few days. Please read THIS POST on his blog and hold him in your prayers.
***
THANKSGIVING
From THE NATIONAL POST:
South Sudan almost unanimously voted to declare independence from the north in a referendum, officials said on Sunday, sparking mass celebrations in the southern capital Juba. Thousands cheered, danced and ululated after officials announced the first official preliminary results that overall showed a 98.83% majority for separation, according to the vote's website.
"This is what we voted for, so that people can be free in their own country.... I say congratulations a million times," south Sudan President Salva Kiir told the crowd.
If you would like to light
a candle as part of your
prayer, please click HERE,
then click on BEGIN and
follow the instructions.
Our group name is
Laika (case sensitive);
please type this into
the appropriate box
when requested.
***
Our friend, Father Dougal, has had a really crappy time over the last few days. Please read THIS POST on his blog and hold him in your prayers.
***
THANKSGIVING
From THE NATIONAL POST:
South Sudan almost unanimously voted to declare independence from the north in a referendum, officials said on Sunday, sparking mass celebrations in the southern capital Juba. Thousands cheered, danced and ululated after officials announced the first official preliminary results that overall showed a 98.83% majority for separation, according to the vote's website.
"This is what we voted for, so that people can be free in their own country.... I say congratulations a million times," south Sudan President Salva Kiir told the crowd.
If you would like to light
a candle as part of your
prayer, please click HERE,
then click on BEGIN and
follow the instructions.
Our group name is
Laika (case sensitive);
please type this into
the appropriate box
when requested.
ROWAN WILLIAMS WIMPS OUT ON
ORIGINAL STATEMENT AND BACKS OROMBI
From THE IRISH TIMES:
Rowan Williams, reacted strongly to media questions in Dublin yesterday which queried the role of the Anglican primate of Uganda, Most Rev Henry Luke Orombi, in fomenting a climate in which gay activist David Kato was murdered there last Wednesday.
Defending Bishop Orombi, Williams emphasised that Bishop Orombi’s position concerned “exclusion from ministry on grounds of behaviour, not orientation”.
He continued that Mr Kato had been “named in this rotten, disgraceful Ugandan publication” – the Rolling Stone newspaper in Kampala – in which “effectively, his murder had been called for.”
It illustrated, he said, that “words have results . . . certainly a lesson all need to learn”.
COMMENT: I'm trying to work out where I took the wrong turn and so ended up on this crazy planet.
Honestly, the things our Archbishop says make the conversation at the Mad Hatter's Tea Party appear truly coherent in comparison.
Oh, you'll be pleased to know that Katharine Zeta Schori showed some bottle, as usual. Speaking at Christ Church Cathedral yesterday morning she said the primate of Uganda faced “significant challenges." She prayed for him and for the soul of David Kato, whose death was a reminder of “the need to treat all human beings with dignity”.
Rowan Williams, reacted strongly to media questions in Dublin yesterday which queried the role of the Anglican primate of Uganda, Most Rev Henry Luke Orombi, in fomenting a climate in which gay activist David Kato was murdered there last Wednesday.
Defending Bishop Orombi, Williams emphasised that Bishop Orombi’s position concerned “exclusion from ministry on grounds of behaviour, not orientation”.
He continued that Mr Kato had been “named in this rotten, disgraceful Ugandan publication” – the Rolling Stone newspaper in Kampala – in which “effectively, his murder had been called for.”
It illustrated, he said, that “words have results . . . certainly a lesson all need to learn”.
COMMENT: I'm trying to work out where I took the wrong turn and so ended up on this crazy planet.
Honestly, the things our Archbishop says make the conversation at the Mad Hatter's Tea Party appear truly coherent in comparison.
Oh, you'll be pleased to know that Katharine Zeta Schori showed some bottle, as usual. Speaking at Christ Church Cathedral yesterday morning she said the primate of Uganda faced “significant challenges." She prayed for him and for the soul of David Kato, whose death was a reminder of “the need to treat all human beings with dignity”.
MADPRIEST'S WEEKEND
Mrs MP and myself have spent the whole weekend (except last night when I went dancin') looking for somewhere to live.
Now, I have never understood why people with lots of money get to live in nicer houses in nicer places than people without much money. And I mean that. To me, the correlation between wealth and quality of life is just an arbitrary system that society has accepted (obviously due to bullying by those with lots of money). You might as well allocate housing on the basis of hair colour. It would have the same amount of logic, e.g. none whatsoever.
But there is something even more unfair about the plight of the poor that has really been brought home to me over the last couple of days. The only houses that poor people can afford to live in are in areas full of the socially irresponsible. I saw some perfectly fine houses this weekend but living in them would mean having to put up with crime, violence, anti-social behaviour and driveways that look like scrap metal yards.
The reason for this is because councils in the UK dump problem families in housing areas where poor people live. They never rehouse ASBOs and chavs in that nice new housing estate just built on greenbelt land or next door to where the mayor lives.
But most poor people are socially responsible people and they have enough to put up with in being hard up without having to fear going out in their own neighbourhood because they may be attacked by teenagers in street whilst their house is being burgled.
It has not always been this way. When my grandparents applied for a council house before WWII they had to answer a long list of questions to show that they would look after the property and not annoy the neighbours, before they were given the keys. And they had to promise to follow the rules. If they didn't they would have been evicted, and a lot, lot quicker than that happens today.
I love living among working people. I feel comfortable in such places and uncomfortable among the more wealthy because I've never really learnt the rules that apply when in their company (I just can't seem to get the hang of regarding them as superior to me). But I hate people who crap in their own neighbourhoods. There was a time when such people would have had said crap kicked out of them by a few decent, but capable of extreme violence, local blokes. But that doesn't happen anymore. We are told that we have to leave such things to the police but the police don't have the manpower or legal backing to sort out the antisocial behaviour that people are no longer allowed to sort out for themselves. So the good but poor hide in their homes listening to the anarchy on the streets with no help from the authorities and the rich barbecue in their nicely kept gardens whilst the few policemen we still employ patrol their neighbourhoods so they are not disturbed.
Now, I have never understood why people with lots of money get to live in nicer houses in nicer places than people without much money. And I mean that. To me, the correlation between wealth and quality of life is just an arbitrary system that society has accepted (obviously due to bullying by those with lots of money). You might as well allocate housing on the basis of hair colour. It would have the same amount of logic, e.g. none whatsoever.
But there is something even more unfair about the plight of the poor that has really been brought home to me over the last couple of days. The only houses that poor people can afford to live in are in areas full of the socially irresponsible. I saw some perfectly fine houses this weekend but living in them would mean having to put up with crime, violence, anti-social behaviour and driveways that look like scrap metal yards.
The reason for this is because councils in the UK dump problem families in housing areas where poor people live. They never rehouse ASBOs and chavs in that nice new housing estate just built on greenbelt land or next door to where the mayor lives.
But most poor people are socially responsible people and they have enough to put up with in being hard up without having to fear going out in their own neighbourhood because they may be attacked by teenagers in street whilst their house is being burgled.
It has not always been this way. When my grandparents applied for a council house before WWII they had to answer a long list of questions to show that they would look after the property and not annoy the neighbours, before they were given the keys. And they had to promise to follow the rules. If they didn't they would have been evicted, and a lot, lot quicker than that happens today.
I love living among working people. I feel comfortable in such places and uncomfortable among the more wealthy because I've never really learnt the rules that apply when in their company (I just can't seem to get the hang of regarding them as superior to me). But I hate people who crap in their own neighbourhoods. There was a time when such people would have had said crap kicked out of them by a few decent, but capable of extreme violence, local blokes. But that doesn't happen anymore. We are told that we have to leave such things to the police but the police don't have the manpower or legal backing to sort out the antisocial behaviour that people are no longer allowed to sort out for themselves. So the good but poor hide in their homes listening to the anarchy on the streets with no help from the authorities and the rich barbecue in their nicely kept gardens whilst the few policemen we still employ patrol their neighbourhoods so they are not disturbed.
Sunday, 30 January 2011
ONTOLOGY - AND HOW IT DOESN'T
WASH WITH BRITISH OFFICIALDOM
Here's a question for all of you who think a priest is always a priest:
What do I answer when I am asked what my occupation (not my normal occupation) is? As far as I can work out my occupation at present is "unemployed." That is what I have to write on the many forms I have to fill in nowadays in order to clam my £63 per week hand out.
If my occupation was "priest" and is now "unemployed," I must have suffered from ontological reversal at the end of August last year.
What do I answer when I am asked what my occupation (not my normal occupation) is? As far as I can work out my occupation at present is "unemployed." That is what I have to write on the many forms I have to fill in nowadays in order to clam my £63 per week hand out.
If my occupation was "priest" and is now "unemployed," I must have suffered from ontological reversal at the end of August last year.
NEWS JUST IN FROM DUBLIN
A further communique has just been released from the Dublin meeting and sent exclusively to OCICBW... The primates have decided that from now on all clergy in the Anglican Communion can decide for themselves what their job is. The review process to which priests have been subjected to over recent years is to be scrapped and replaced by a system of self-assessment in which each priest will consider how fantastic it is to be in charge of stuff and how much more important they are than other people.
Bishop Rowan Williams, spokesman for the primates (or, as he prefers to refer to himself - "the first among the first among equals") states, "How can us primates meet together and decide what our job is without referring to anyone else if we don't allow everybody else the same privilege? That just wouldn't be Christian, would it?"
OCICBW... contacted Jesus to ask him his thoughts on the Dublin primates meeting.
"There will come a time when the first among equals will be last and gay Ugandans will run the show," he said.
But then, what does he know? It's not like he was ever a bishop, let alone a primate.
Bishop Rowan Williams, spokesman for the primates (or, as he prefers to refer to himself - "the first among the first among equals") states, "How can us primates meet together and decide what our job is without referring to anyone else if we don't allow everybody else the same privilege? That just wouldn't be Christian, would it?"
OCICBW... contacted Jesus to ask him his thoughts on the Dublin primates meeting.
"There will come a time when the first among equals will be last and gay Ugandans will run the show," he said.
But then, what does he know? It's not like he was ever a bishop, let alone a primate.
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