Saturday, 26 May 2012
MADPRIEST'S THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
I can't look into another person's mind, so I have absolutely no idea if when someone tells me that, "Personally, I concede that there may be viewpoints different than my own which are perfectly reasonable..." they are telling the truth. But please believe me when I tell you that if I should ever say this or anything similar to you, I will be lying through my teeth.
AND EVERYWHERE THEY ARE IN CHAINS
Any job that does not pay more than what it costs for a person to survive is slavery as even slaveowners make sure their slaves survive.
One of the main reasons the landowners of the Southern States desired the continuation of slavery so fervently was because it gave them a big commercial advantage over those countries that did not allow slavery (the cost of production being considerably lower if you do not share your profits with your workers).
Most of the world's production is now carried out by workers who, although free in principle, do not earn more than enough money to survive on. Many earn less than they need. Many are actually less well provided for than the slaves of the Southern States. Countries, such as Vietnam and India, where such slavery is endemic, allow this state of affairs because it gives them a commercial advantage over those countries where the workers demand to earn more than enough to survive on. Therefore, the multi-international companies and their political enablers, who move their production to such countries are engaging in and encouraging the continuation of the slave trade. Anybody who profits from the commercial enterprises of these companies (through share holding, interest on savings or pension provision etc.) are also guilty.
Are you a slaveowner?
The Church of England is.
One of the main reasons the landowners of the Southern States desired the continuation of slavery so fervently was because it gave them a big commercial advantage over those countries that did not allow slavery (the cost of production being considerably lower if you do not share your profits with your workers).
Most of the world's production is now carried out by workers who, although free in principle, do not earn more than enough money to survive on. Many earn less than they need. Many are actually less well provided for than the slaves of the Southern States. Countries, such as Vietnam and India, where such slavery is endemic, allow this state of affairs because it gives them a commercial advantage over those countries where the workers demand to earn more than enough to survive on. Therefore, the multi-international companies and their political enablers, who move their production to such countries are engaging in and encouraging the continuation of the slave trade. Anybody who profits from the commercial enterprises of these companies (through share holding, interest on savings or pension provision etc.) are also guilty.
Are you a slaveowner?
The Church of England is.
Friday, 25 May 2012
PERVERTING CHRISTIANITY
From WAFB:
Scores of Maine churches will pass the collection plate a second time at Sunday services on Father's Day to kick off a fundraising campaign for the lead opposition group to November's ballot question asking voters to legalize same-sex marriages. Between 150 and 200 churches are expected to raise money for the Protect Marriage Maine political action committee, said Carroll Conley Jr., executive director of the Christian Civic League of Maine evangelical organization and a member of the PAC. Conley is also trying to drum up support for the Maine campaign from religious leaders from around the country.
There is only one word to describe these perverters of the Gospel of Christ and it is the word "evil." We're not supposed to compare people to Nazis on blogs but, come on, can anybody think of of a more apt description for these extreme, right wing bigots.
They are fascists and the United States is on the brink of becoming a fascist state. If you don't believe me check out the musical, "Cabaret" and join the dots.
Scores of Maine churches will pass the collection plate a second time at Sunday services on Father's Day to kick off a fundraising campaign for the lead opposition group to November's ballot question asking voters to legalize same-sex marriages. Between 150 and 200 churches are expected to raise money for the Protect Marriage Maine political action committee, said Carroll Conley Jr., executive director of the Christian Civic League of Maine evangelical organization and a member of the PAC. Conley is also trying to drum up support for the Maine campaign from religious leaders from around the country.
There is only one word to describe these perverters of the Gospel of Christ and it is the word "evil." We're not supposed to compare people to Nazis on blogs but, come on, can anybody think of of a more apt description for these extreme, right wing bigots.
They are fascists and the United States is on the brink of becoming a fascist state. If you don't believe me check out the musical, "Cabaret" and join the dots.
CONGRATULATIONS!
To my niece, Jessica.
She has passed all the tests, physical and mental with "flying" colours and she will shortly signing up with the Royal Air Force.
She'll do well just as long as the RAF doesn't ever actually let her loose in one of those flying things of theres. Otherwise...
She has passed all the tests, physical and mental with "flying" colours and she will shortly signing up with the Royal Air Force.
She'll do well just as long as the RAF doesn't ever actually let her loose in one of those flying things of theres. Otherwise...
NEW KID IN TOWN
Please welcome Bishop Sensible to OCICBW.... Unlike The Lord Bishops, he is a complete figment of my imagination.
AND NOW YOUR FAVOURITE SUBJECT - FOOD
Father Foodie is "an Episcopal Priest who is a believer in healthy cooking, healthy living, and never opening a can." Check out his recipe blog which is called FATHER FOODIE (nice and simple for his American readers).
MRS WILKE'S LOLDOG OF THE WEEK
Oh, and mucho congratulations and good wishes to Mrs Wilke (Our Tracie - The Red). This Sunday, after years of searching (simple prevarication if you ask me), she is to be received into The Episcopal Church. This is brilliant news, especially for the right wing media in the States who were beginning to wonder who the heck they could pretend to be shocked about now that Bishop Robinson has retired.
I DON'T THINK SO
From a diocesan website's vacancy page:
Risk making mistakes?!!!
You've got to be kidding me!
The clergy of the Church of England live in constant fear of getting the slightest thing wrong in case they upset somebody. An anonymous email to a bishop, a tip-off to the press, can lead to your life and career being completely screwed up for ever over the most ridiculously daft things and the "senior staff" aren't going to back you up. They are far too worried about getting to the top of the ecclesiastical greasy pole to risk being seen to support an unpopular decision by a parish priest. You are completely expendable, my parish based friends. My advise is that you risk nothing. Don't have any new ideas and never change anything. Above all, don't, for any reason, engage with the world outside of the church. You might end up having to use its language and that would never do.
Risk making mistakes?!!!
You've got to be kidding me!
The clergy of the Church of England live in constant fear of getting the slightest thing wrong in case they upset somebody. An anonymous email to a bishop, a tip-off to the press, can lead to your life and career being completely screwed up for ever over the most ridiculously daft things and the "senior staff" aren't going to back you up. They are far too worried about getting to the top of the ecclesiastical greasy pole to risk being seen to support an unpopular decision by a parish priest. You are completely expendable, my parish based friends. My advise is that you risk nothing. Don't have any new ideas and never change anything. Above all, don't, for any reason, engage with the world outside of the church. You might end up having to use its language and that would never do.
YOU'RE NOT GOING TO BELIEVE THIS...
... but the last time I swore was nearly seventeen years ago during all the legal stuff before my ordination. I swore before God that I believed in all sorts of stuff. I actually believe this was a sin and against the teachings of Jesus Christ, but the bishop was very old fashioned and, back then, I didn't have the courage to argue with important people.
I never blaspheme on my blog (at least, not linguistically). The nearest I get to blasphemy is an occasional, ironic "OMG!" I'm not saying that I never blaspheme off the internet but I try my hardest not to. I use "heck" and "my goodness" a lot and prefer "O shit!" to invoking the name of the Son of God when I drop and break a glass or something.
As for "bad language," I don't believe it exists. There is language, that is all. The fact that when you ask different people to list words that are unacceptable they will not agree with each other on what should be included on such a list, emphasises how nonsensical the splitting of language into good and bad words really is. To be honest, if a person believes a certain word is taboo, that's their hang-up and not my problem. However, I don't go out of my way to upset people who have done nothing to upset me and so, if I'm in the company of someone who might not like me swearing, I try not to. But that's just politeness, it's nothing to do with right and wrong. In my own home and on my own blog, in the presence of my friends I use "swearwords" freely. I like them. I like the sound of them. I like the way you can use them creatively to create atmosphere and emphasis. As I believe that sexual intercourse is a good thing, I'm not going to pretend that a word describing it is in some way a bad thing. That don't make sense.
Oh, and Jesus swore like a trooper. If anyone thinks that the phrase "you nest of vipers" is in anyway less of a curse than "you complete and utter bastards" all I can suggest is that you get real.
I never blaspheme on my blog (at least, not linguistically). The nearest I get to blasphemy is an occasional, ironic "OMG!" I'm not saying that I never blaspheme off the internet but I try my hardest not to. I use "heck" and "my goodness" a lot and prefer "O shit!" to invoking the name of the Son of God when I drop and break a glass or something.
As for "bad language," I don't believe it exists. There is language, that is all. The fact that when you ask different people to list words that are unacceptable they will not agree with each other on what should be included on such a list, emphasises how nonsensical the splitting of language into good and bad words really is. To be honest, if a person believes a certain word is taboo, that's their hang-up and not my problem. However, I don't go out of my way to upset people who have done nothing to upset me and so, if I'm in the company of someone who might not like me swearing, I try not to. But that's just politeness, it's nothing to do with right and wrong. In my own home and on my own blog, in the presence of my friends I use "swearwords" freely. I like them. I like the sound of them. I like the way you can use them creatively to create atmosphere and emphasis. As I believe that sexual intercourse is a good thing, I'm not going to pretend that a word describing it is in some way a bad thing. That don't make sense.
Oh, and Jesus swore like a trooper. If anyone thinks that the phrase "you nest of vipers" is in anyway less of a curse than "you complete and utter bastards" all I can suggest is that you get real.
BISHOP OF SHEFFIELD FEEDS TROLL
From THE BBC:
The Vicar of Doncaster reportedly used a four-letter word and complained about having to go to church on Sunday. A complaint about the comments was sent to senior clergy at the Diocesan Bishop of Sheffield's office. The Bishop of Doncaster intended to discuss it with Canon Shackerley, the Bishop of Sheffield's office said.
The comments began on a Saturday evening and included comments such as "I think I will put my feet up" and "I hear the fizz of tonic in my gin beckoning." The vicar reportedly went on to post: "Alas, I have religion tomorrow. At least I'm not preaching this week. Preaching next week at St Mary Abbotts Kensington though. Best make that a good one eh?"
The Facebook extracts, accompanied by an anonymous letter, were sent to the Bishop of Sheffield Dr Steven Croft and the Bishop of Doncaster the Right Reverend Peter Burrows. The canon's posts used language that was "abhorrent for a man in his position and pretty distasteful for anyone", the complainant is said to have written.
I recognise that Screwtape language, it's Trollish. This particular troll will be so pleased that the Bishop of Sheffield can be played and responds to anonymous emails.
If I was a bishop and received an anonymous email about a priest's "bad language," I would email straight back with a succinct "Piss Off!" Unfortunately I am not even a priest anymore, let alone a bishop, so the church in England carries on in its traditional, dreary, predictable way to the oblivion of utter insignificance.
Hat Tip to Thomas on Facebook for alerting me to this story.
The Vicar of Doncaster reportedly used a four-letter word and complained about having to go to church on Sunday. A complaint about the comments was sent to senior clergy at the Diocesan Bishop of Sheffield's office. The Bishop of Doncaster intended to discuss it with Canon Shackerley, the Bishop of Sheffield's office said.
The comments began on a Saturday evening and included comments such as "I think I will put my feet up" and "I hear the fizz of tonic in my gin beckoning." The vicar reportedly went on to post: "Alas, I have religion tomorrow. At least I'm not preaching this week. Preaching next week at St Mary Abbotts Kensington though. Best make that a good one eh?"
The Facebook extracts, accompanied by an anonymous letter, were sent to the Bishop of Sheffield Dr Steven Croft and the Bishop of Doncaster the Right Reverend Peter Burrows. The canon's posts used language that was "abhorrent for a man in his position and pretty distasteful for anyone", the complainant is said to have written.
I recognise that Screwtape language, it's Trollish. This particular troll will be so pleased that the Bishop of Sheffield can be played and responds to anonymous emails.
If I was a bishop and received an anonymous email about a priest's "bad language," I would email straight back with a succinct "Piss Off!" Unfortunately I am not even a priest anymore, let alone a bishop, so the church in England carries on in its traditional, dreary, predictable way to the oblivion of utter insignificance.
Hat Tip to Thomas on Facebook for alerting me to this story.
Thursday, 24 May 2012
ONE TO WATCH OUT FOR
I have no idea why but I have been sent an invitation to the media screening of a new Lebanese film. I've obviously mistakenly been added to a list of important people where I have no place to be so I won't be going. Anyway, it's sure to be in London which is a bit far to go just to catch a flick.
However, it looks like a film that I would definitely enjoy so I will go and see it when it shows at our local art cinema. Here's a trailer for it. I think it will be right up the proverbial streets of many of you lot as well.
However, it looks like a film that I would definitely enjoy so I will go and see it when it shows at our local art cinema. Here's a trailer for it. I think it will be right up the proverbial streets of many of you lot as well.
GETTING CLOSER
Thank you James, Simon, James, Susan and Jean. Due to your generosity I can now reveal that the total raised, so far, in my Birthday Appeal is a tremendous
£560
I still need to increase this figure quite a bit if I am going to be able to purchase the items I need, primarily a laptop, to turn OCICBW... and Saint Laika's into a more professional set-up. So, once again, I am asking those of you who enjoy the stuff I put out to consider making a small to massive donation to my ministry.
All monies raised from this appeal will go towards my online ministry.
None of it will be spent on me.
Full details of the appeal can be found HERE.
And here is the button you have to click on to make your donation.
If you really don't like using PayPal, then email me and I will suggest other ways of making a donation.
* Just send money.
£560
I still need to increase this figure quite a bit if I am going to be able to purchase the items I need, primarily a laptop, to turn OCICBW... and Saint Laika's into a more professional set-up. So, once again, I am asking those of you who enjoy the stuff I put out to consider making a small to massive donation to my ministry.
All monies raised from this appeal will go towards my online ministry.
None of it will be spent on me.
Full details of the appeal can be found HERE.
And here is the button you have to click on to make your donation.
If you really don't like using PayPal, then email me and I will suggest other ways of making a donation.
AND DON'T
FORGET
Everybody who sends in a donation receives a copy of
THE BEST OF MADPRIEST
2011
completely and absolutely FREE*
* Just send money.
ANY EXCUSE TO DRESS UP LIKE A WOMAN
From THE SUN STAR (The Philippines):
A man in shorts and a red strapless bra danced like a woman on one of the boats during the fluvial parade. Other men wore floral dresses and wigs, their lips and cheeks smeared with lipstick. After the fluvial parade, the men gathered in front of the chapel and shouted as they watched a fight between a kitten and a frog. In the middle of the crowd, a shirtless man wearing heavy make-up carried a basket with a signboard that said: “Pizza for Sale.” Inside the basket were lumps of manure topped with ketchup. Two men walked around with a large wooden replica of the male sex organ attached to their waists.
A banner hung at the entrance of Barangay San Vicente in Olango Island said: “Welcome to the Baliw-Baliw Festival 2012.” An estimated 5,000 people witnessed the unique event, which was the highlight of Barangay San Vicente’s fiesta celebration yesterday. No one knows the beginning of the Baliw-Baliw festival, but Erwin Eyas, the festival’s event coordinator for 14 years, said it may have started in the late 18th century. He said the festival started as a ritual by the early natives of Barangay San Vicente. Men carry phallic symbols as a plea to San Vicente Ferrer to heal the residents’ kidney ailments.
Saint Vicente Ferrer, the patron saint of Gay Pride marches.
Who'd have thought it?
A man in shorts and a red strapless bra danced like a woman on one of the boats during the fluvial parade. Other men wore floral dresses and wigs, their lips and cheeks smeared with lipstick. After the fluvial parade, the men gathered in front of the chapel and shouted as they watched a fight between a kitten and a frog. In the middle of the crowd, a shirtless man wearing heavy make-up carried a basket with a signboard that said: “Pizza for Sale.” Inside the basket were lumps of manure topped with ketchup. Two men walked around with a large wooden replica of the male sex organ attached to their waists.
A banner hung at the entrance of Barangay San Vicente in Olango Island said: “Welcome to the Baliw-Baliw Festival 2012.” An estimated 5,000 people witnessed the unique event, which was the highlight of Barangay San Vicente’s fiesta celebration yesterday. No one knows the beginning of the Baliw-Baliw festival, but Erwin Eyas, the festival’s event coordinator for 14 years, said it may have started in the late 18th century. He said the festival started as a ritual by the early natives of Barangay San Vicente. Men carry phallic symbols as a plea to San Vicente Ferrer to heal the residents’ kidney ailments.
Saint Vicente Ferrer, the patron saint of Gay Pride marches.
Who'd have thought it?
WORSHIPPING THE KING
From THE DAILY MAIL:
A Church of England vicar has left his congregation all shook up after quitting his job - to become an Elvis Presley impersonator. The Reverend Andy Kelso, 64, ditched his dog collar to wear a high collar and jewelled white jump suit after saying he had a calling from God. Now, the father of five has been dubbed 'Elvis Priestly' after he stopped preaching from the pulpit to belt out The King’s classics to other churches, packed-out pubs, clubs and old folks homes near his former vicarage.
A Church of England vicar has left his congregation all shook up after quitting his job - to become an Elvis Presley impersonator. The Reverend Andy Kelso, 64, ditched his dog collar to wear a high collar and jewelled white jump suit after saying he had a calling from God. Now, the father of five has been dubbed 'Elvis Priestly' after he stopped preaching from the pulpit to belt out The King’s classics to other churches, packed-out pubs, clubs and old folks homes near his former vicarage.
GOD'S GONNA GIT YER!
From THE FOREIGNER:
Former priest and vehement anti-abortion campaigner Ludvig Nessa threatened to curse politicians over Monday’s decision to abolish Norway’s official state church and religion.In an email to the entire Christian Democrat (KrF) parliamentary group, he wrote, “a last warning”, invoking Chapter 30, verse 19 of the Fifth Book of Moses:
“I call to record this day unto you, heaven and earth, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: but choose life, that thou and thy seed may live.”
I would have quoted the Bible right back at him. Something along the lines of "Go forth and multiply off!"
“I call to record this day unto you, heaven and earth, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: but choose life, that thou and thy seed may live.”
I would have quoted the Bible right back at him. Something along the lines of "Go forth and multiply off!"
HEADLINE OF THE DAY
AND COMPETITION TIME
It's very simple. All you have to do is suggest what the "unfortunate incident" might have been. Please avoid the truth at all costs. Off you go then!
A TALE OF TWO RELIGIONS
RELIGION ONE (THE MAMMONISTS):
With disappointment, I report to you that we have been unable to reach a final settlement with the CANA congregation now known as the Falls Church Anglican. Their leadership has made it clear that they plan to pursue their appeal before the Supreme Court of Virginia unless the Diocese (with the Episcopal Church’s approval) pays them a significant sum of money
RELIGION TWO (THE CHRISTIANS):
The Diocese is leasing the rectory to the rector of the Falls Church Anglican for up to a year at a fair rent, allowing him time to relocate. Finally, Bishop Johnston has given the Rev. Cathy Tibbetts, priest-in-charge of the Falls Church Episcopal, authority to respond generously to requests for weddings and funerals in the Falls Church by members of the Falls Church Anglican.
Full details at THE LEAD.
With disappointment, I report to you that we have been unable to reach a final settlement with the CANA congregation now known as the Falls Church Anglican. Their leadership has made it clear that they plan to pursue their appeal before the Supreme Court of Virginia unless the Diocese (with the Episcopal Church’s approval) pays them a significant sum of money
RELIGION TWO (THE CHRISTIANS):
The Diocese is leasing the rectory to the rector of the Falls Church Anglican for up to a year at a fair rent, allowing him time to relocate. Finally, Bishop Johnston has given the Rev. Cathy Tibbetts, priest-in-charge of the Falls Church Episcopal, authority to respond generously to requests for weddings and funerals in the Falls Church by members of the Falls Church Anglican.
Full details at THE LEAD.
GOD BOTHERING THURSDAY 24TH. MAY 2012
There is sadness and happiness.
If you have a moment, please pop over there, say a prayer and do light a virtual candle as it shows those we are praying for that we do care.
If you have a prayer request that you want including on tomorrow's prayer list, please let me know in the comments to this post, go to St. Laika's and leave it on the Our Prayers forum or drop me an email at madpriestx@sky.com.
WHERE DOES HE FIND THEM?
Yes, okay, this is really bad. I have a sneaking suspicion it's our troll. It certainly looks like it could be. Whatever, you get 2500 days off purgatory if you get all the way through it.
Wednesday, 23 May 2012
PRESS RELEASE FROM SAINT PAUL'S
St Paul’s ‘What Money Can’t Buy’ debate moves up a gear
Wednesday, 23rd May 2012
St Paul's Institute will announce an initiative at today's public debate with Michael Sandel to take the debate beyond the doors of the Cathedral.
Today (23 May), St Paul's Institute, the London School of Economics and Political Science, JustShare and Penguin UK are holding a public debate with noted public philosopher and Harvard professor Michael Sandel on the subject of his new book, What Money Can't Buy: The Moral Limits of Markets. This debate is being held within St Paul's Cathedral in order to explore the intersection of faith, morality and markets and the power that money has in our lives. Interest has been intense, with 1,800 tickets registered, and it is anticipated that the Cathedral will be full.
Today (23 May), St Paul's Institute, the London School of Economics and Political Science, JustShare and Penguin UK are holding a public debate with noted public philosopher and Harvard professor Michael Sandel on the subject of his new book, What Money Can't Buy: The Moral Limits of Markets. This debate is being held within St Paul's Cathedral in order to explore the intersection of faith, morality and markets and the power that money has in our lives. Interest has been intense, with 1,800 tickets registered, and it is anticipated that the Cathedral will be full.
But the debate is too important to stop at the doors of the Cathedral. Following the event, St Paul’s Institute will be seeking views from 100 well-known figures from across British public life, including the leaders of the main political parties, on two key questions raised in the debate:
What things do you think money can't buy and, if you can't buy them, how can you get them?
What are the most important things you think money can buy, but shouldn't?
The responses received will be published later in June.
What are the most important things you think money can buy, but shouldn't?
The responses received will be published later in June.
At the same time, the Institute is providing a chance for people to comment on its website, www.stpaulsinstitute.org.uk, through which those who came to the debate and the public at large can express their views.
Speaking of the initiative on behalf of St Paul’s Institute, Bishop Peter Selby (a very good person) said: "In all the endless discussion of currency, money, and markets we somehow always avoid the issue. Michael Sandel’s book is a great opportunity to ask the deepest questions about the place of money in our lives – and where better to face those questions than in St Paul’s Cathedral? This debate is what has been at the centre of the Institute’s vision all along.”
Michael Sandel said: "A market economy is a tool - a valuable and effective tool - for organising productive activity. A market society is a way of life in which market values seep into every aspect of human endeavour. It is a place where social relations are made over in the image of the market. The great missing debate is about the role and reach of the market. I am delighted that St Paul's Institute is seeking to foster just this debate."
For more information please contact Rob Gordon, Manager of St Paul’s Institute, on 020 7489 1011 or email institute@stpaulscathedral.org.uk
MOUSE BITES ELEPHANT
The reaction against the Vatican's bullying of US nuns has started. People (men and women) are taking to the streets to protest against misogynist control freaks of Roman Catholicism. I thought one of the placards that they were carrying was particularly brilliant.
BISHOPS CLEAN YOUR OWN HOUSE!
Not only is this a very apt charge of hypocrisy but it also sums up, in just five short words, the Roman Catholic hierarchy's and, as it now appears, the bishops of the Church of England's beliefs about what God created women for and what a lot of, I would guess most of, Roman Catholic women in the States now believe the pompous little mummy's boys can do with their patronising, patriarchal view of women.
Well done sisters.
Carry on!
BISHOPS CLEAN YOUR OWN HOUSE!
Not only is this a very apt charge of hypocrisy but it also sums up, in just five short words, the Roman Catholic hierarchy's and, as it now appears, the bishops of the Church of England's beliefs about what God created women for and what a lot of, I would guess most of, Roman Catholic women in the States now believe the pompous little mummy's boys can do with their patronising, patriarchal view of women.
Well done sisters.
Carry on!
THE UNHOLY GUILTY
From CNN:
Philadelphia: A priest who assisted Monsignor William Lynn investigate clergy sex abuse claims testified Tuesday that it was not the archdiocese's policy to contact law enforcement or other victims of abuse.
"Our legal counsel said there was not a requirement to report," Monsignor Michael McCulken told jurors.
On trial are the Rev. James Brennan, who is accused of the attempted rape of a 14-year-old, and Monsignor William Lynn, who is accused of knowingly allowing dangerous priests to continue in the ministry in roles in which they had access to children.
Thanks to Ellie who sent in this story.
Philadelphia: A priest who assisted Monsignor William Lynn investigate clergy sex abuse claims testified Tuesday that it was not the archdiocese's policy to contact law enforcement or other victims of abuse.
"Our legal counsel said there was not a requirement to report," Monsignor Michael McCulken told jurors.
On trial are the Rev. James Brennan, who is accused of the attempted rape of a 14-year-old, and Monsignor William Lynn, who is accused of knowingly allowing dangerous priests to continue in the ministry in roles in which they had access to children.
Thanks to Ellie who sent in this story.
TEACHERS WITH INTEGRITY
From CHRISTIANITY TODAY:
More than two dozen faculty members have resigned from Shorter University, a Baptist school in Georgia, after it required them to sign a “personal lifestyle statement” that condemns homosexuality, premarital sex and public drinking. University president Donald Dowless on Friday (May 18) confirmed that 36 faculty have resigned and at least 25 cited disagreement with either the personal lifestyle statement or the faith statement. The school usually has about 100 full-time faculty.
For putting personal integrity, and love of neighbour, before their own well-being, the staff of Shorter University who flipped the bird at the bigots of their college board, are our...
BRICKS OF THE DAY
Check out this vid. It's brilliant.
More than two dozen faculty members have resigned from Shorter University, a Baptist school in Georgia, after it required them to sign a “personal lifestyle statement” that condemns homosexuality, premarital sex and public drinking. University president Donald Dowless on Friday (May 18) confirmed that 36 faculty have resigned and at least 25 cited disagreement with either the personal lifestyle statement or the faith statement. The school usually has about 100 full-time faculty.
For putting personal integrity, and love of neighbour, before their own well-being, the staff of Shorter University who flipped the bird at the bigots of their college board, are our...
BRICKS OF THE DAY
Check out this vid. It's brilliant.
PASTOR DREAD
From THE AUGUSTA CHRONICLE:
A Baptist preacher, Darien James Spivey, 45, of Miracle Baptist Church in Hephzibah, was in the Keron Way area around 8 p.m. Sunday with a group of church members soliciting people to visit the church. Spivey was talking with Darwin Kyle Eutsy, 40, of the 1600 block of Keron Way, when the argument became heated and Eutsy became verbally abusive. When Eutsy stood up suddenly during the argument, the pastor pulled out a handgun and pointed it at Eutsy. Spivey then left the area.
I've always maintained that priests, and nobody else, should be armed as we are uniquely qualified to decide who is being naughty and who is being good. Of course, when I say "priests" I am only referring to real priests. I'm not saying that non-conformist ministers should be allowed to carry guns (certainly not baptists). Also, I wouldn't allow evangelicals to carry guns even if they had been ordained in a proper church. In fact, only Anglican priests who agree with me 100% on everything would be allowed into my proposed crime fighting unit.
A Baptist preacher, Darien James Spivey, 45, of Miracle Baptist Church in Hephzibah, was in the Keron Way area around 8 p.m. Sunday with a group of church members soliciting people to visit the church. Spivey was talking with Darwin Kyle Eutsy, 40, of the 1600 block of Keron Way, when the argument became heated and Eutsy became verbally abusive. When Eutsy stood up suddenly during the argument, the pastor pulled out a handgun and pointed it at Eutsy. Spivey then left the area.
I've always maintained that priests, and nobody else, should be armed as we are uniquely qualified to decide who is being naughty and who is being good. Of course, when I say "priests" I am only referring to real priests. I'm not saying that non-conformist ministers should be allowed to carry guns (certainly not baptists). Also, I wouldn't allow evangelicals to carry guns even if they had been ordained in a proper church. In fact, only Anglican priests who agree with me 100% on everything would be allowed into my proposed crime fighting unit.
Tuesday, 22 May 2012
WATCH OUT!
My good buddy, Padre Mickey (or is he just plain Father Mickey now that he isn't exotic anymore?) always has my best interests at heart and often gives me exceedingly good advice. Today he sent me this cartoon.
So, watch out, all of you! You better take out some insurance with MadPriest Inc. "Orrible things can happen if you are not fully protected.
So, watch out, all of you! You better take out some insurance with MadPriest Inc. "Orrible things can happen if you are not fully protected.
BLOODSUCKER GIVES BLOOD
From SKY NEWS:
The charitable foundation of late US president Ronald Reagan has condemned a British auction house for selling a vial that purportedly contains his blood. Bids above £6,000 have been made for the specimen vial and supporting documentation, apparently from the hospital where the then president was treated after a 1981 assassination attempt.
The charitable foundation of late US president Ronald Reagan has condemned a British auction house for selling a vial that purportedly contains his blood. Bids above £6,000 have been made for the specimen vial and supporting documentation, apparently from the hospital where the then president was treated after a 1981 assassination attempt.
GOD BOTHERING 22ND. MAY 2012
The prayer list for today is now up at SAINT LAIKA'S. If you have a moment, please pop over there, say a prayer and do light a virtual candle as it shows those we are praying for that we do care.
If you have a prayer request that you want including on tomorrow's prayer list, please let me know in the comments to this post, go to St. Laika's and leave it on the Our Prayers forum or drop me an email at madpriestx@sky.com.
If you have a prayer request that you want including on tomorrow's prayer list, please let me know in the comments to this post, go to St. Laika's and leave it on the Our Prayers forum or drop me an email at madpriestx@sky.com.
Monday, 21 May 2012
LITTLE CHILDREN SUFFER
From THE DAILY MAIL:
When Denum Ellarby walked down the aisle with his classmates to take Holy Communion for the first time his parents felt a mixture of pride and relief. For the family have had to battle what they regarded as ‘cruel discrimination’ by the Catholic Church to ensure their eight-year-old son with Down’s Syndrome could take part in the important First Communion ceremony.
Until the Daily Mail highlighted his plight in January the local priest, backed by the diocese, was refusing to allow him to take part as he would not understand the preparation classes or ‘enjoy participation in Mass.’
His mother Clare Ellarby believed his disability was responsible for the church’s refusal to accept him and collected a 400 signature petition in support of Denum from the local community.
In the wake of the bad publicity the church had a change of heart.
People used to write into my blog and accuse me of being anti-catholic. I used to reply that I was not anti-catholic, I was just anti the abuses of the denomination. Nowadays I don't bother.The bigger the gap between me and them the better. I get enough flak from non-Christians who believe I belong to the same religion as evangelicals. Now I get flak because they believe I belong to the same religion as the sort of monsters who put parents like Denum's folks through a living hell because of some technicality that would never have occurred to Jesus or John the Baptist. I mean, can you imagine Jesus bothering to test a person's IQ before letting that person share in his body and blood?
I'm beginning to think that, whatever denomination they belong to (including my own), Christ-centred Christians should leave their churches and start worshipping together just to show the world that there really can be good news in all this Jesus stuff. I don't think we should start our own church, though. That experiment has proved to be a singular failure of the highest order.
Until the Daily Mail highlighted his plight in January the local priest, backed by the diocese, was refusing to allow him to take part as he would not understand the preparation classes or ‘enjoy participation in Mass.’
His mother Clare Ellarby believed his disability was responsible for the church’s refusal to accept him and collected a 400 signature petition in support of Denum from the local community.
In the wake of the bad publicity the church had a change of heart.
People used to write into my blog and accuse me of being anti-catholic. I used to reply that I was not anti-catholic, I was just anti the abuses of the denomination. Nowadays I don't bother.The bigger the gap between me and them the better. I get enough flak from non-Christians who believe I belong to the same religion as evangelicals. Now I get flak because they believe I belong to the same religion as the sort of monsters who put parents like Denum's folks through a living hell because of some technicality that would never have occurred to Jesus or John the Baptist. I mean, can you imagine Jesus bothering to test a person's IQ before letting that person share in his body and blood?
I'm beginning to think that, whatever denomination they belong to (including my own), Christ-centred Christians should leave their churches and start worshipping together just to show the world that there really can be good news in all this Jesus stuff. I don't think we should start our own church, though. That experiment has proved to be a singular failure of the highest order.
MADPRIEST'S THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
Anglican churches are beginning to accept gay people into their hierarchies but I fear this is only because being gay is becoming more acceptable in society in general. I look forward to the day when my church follows the teachings of it's professed Lord and Saviour and starts accepting unacceptable people with open arms.
BLOG NOTICE
I've updated my blog roll (see right hand sidebar).
I've pruned out the blogs that have been silent recently and added a few new ones. If I have chopped you off in your prime by mistake or if you would like your blog to be included on the list, then please email me at madpriestx@sky.com with the address of you blog(s) and I will, more than likely, add it.
I've pruned out the blogs that have been silent recently and added a few new ones. If I have chopped you off in your prime by mistake or if you would like your blog to be included on the list, then please email me at madpriestx@sky.com with the address of you blog(s) and I will, more than likely, add it.
THOSE NAUGHTY NIGERIANS
From ALL AFRICA:
The Archbishop of Kaduna Anglican Diocese, Most Rev. Edmund Akanyan, yesterday, said rather than blame politicians totally for the country's woes', the Church should be blamed, having drifted from God's way and disappointed Him like the Israelites who were consequently punished. The Archbishop noted that Nigerians could overcome the challenges if Christians repent of their sins and return to God.
Wow, thank goodness the English diocesan synods voted against making a covenant with these people. They could have dragged us all down with them.
This repentance, do you think it might involve turning their backs on arrogant tub thumping, tribalism, homophobia, causing division and misogyny? Probably not.
The Archbishop of Kaduna Anglican Diocese, Most Rev. Edmund Akanyan, yesterday, said rather than blame politicians totally for the country's woes', the Church should be blamed, having drifted from God's way and disappointed Him like the Israelites who were consequently punished. The Archbishop noted that Nigerians could overcome the challenges if Christians repent of their sins and return to God.
Wow, thank goodness the English diocesan synods voted against making a covenant with these people. They could have dragged us all down with them.
This repentance, do you think it might involve turning their backs on arrogant tub thumping, tribalism, homophobia, causing division and misogyny? Probably not.
THINKING THE UNTHINKABLE
I watched the film, "Unthinkable," (extended version) starring Samuel L. Jackson, on Saturday night. The experience will stay with me for the rest of my life.
It is a trojan horse of a film. It is advertised as a thriller, and it is, one with a very simple, linear plot line. A man sends a video to the law enforcement agencies of the USA in which he states that he has hidden a nuclear bomb in three, unspecified cities in the the United States. They are set to go off, simultaneously, on a certain date in the near future. The man is arrested (he actually gives himself up) and is taken to a secure, secret facility to be interrogated. It is definitely the man who made the video and there are extremely good reasons not to doubt the truth of his claim. The rest of the film shows the torture of the man by the security forces to try and get him to tell them where he has hidden the bombs. This torture starts with so called "acceptable methods" but rapidly becomes more and more "unthinkable." But the plot is simply a vehicle used by the film makers to pose the age-old question, "Do the ends justify the means?" A question the film does not answer.
The genius of this film is that, by using the thriller format, it forces the audience to react to it in the same way that they are used to reacting to thrillers. A psychologically normal person becomes involved in a thriller, they want the good guy to win (usually) and they want the "damsel in distress" to be rescued by the good guy. In "Unthinkable" the "damsel in distress" is the millions of people who are going to die if the bombs go off. A normal person does not want those people to die and the thriller format cleverly encourages the audience to identify themselves with the security forces trying to save the people in danger. By the end of the film you will know if you would do the unthinkable, keep to the Geneva convention or remain confused and wanting to run away from the ethical dilemma.
I now know that I would personally rip a terrorist to pieces, bit by bit, with my bare hands to save those people. Jesus wouldn't, but I would. In fact, I would probably do it to save just my wife, or other loved ones.
I am ambivalent about what this says about me. But I am very pleased to have been put into a position where I had to face up to who I am. Honesty is extremely important to me. On this blog I do not hide who I am behind trite, Christian platitudes. I preach Christ's commandments but always admit my failures to follow them.
Of course, it is extremely unlikely that I will ever be in a position exactly similar to the one in this movie. It is extremely unlikely that I will ever be in a position where I am faced with the choice of torturing somebody or not for any reason. But I have to ask myself the question "Do the ends justify the means?" many times each and every day of my life. Knowing how I would react in an extreme situation will now help me to be honest when I am talking with others about more mundane situations, real and hypothetical, which pose the same question. For example, Mimi posted a discussion starter on her blog, WOUNDED BIRD, yesterday in which she asked the question, "Should closeted LGTB hypocrites who bash others of like sexual orientations be outed? Would you out a basher if you were certain the LGTB person was a hypocrite?" I know what the pat Christian response to this question is but it would be dishonest of me to recommend it when I know what I really think, having watched this film.
There was one thing that disappointed me in the ensuing conversation on the thread to Mimi's post and that was the complete unwillingness of anybody to move beyond the safety of the pat Christian response to ask why we regard the privacy of an individual and that person's wellbeing to be a higher moral imperative than our desire to free the captive. Sometimes, I fear, we use Christian platitude to avoid asking ourselves difficult questions and remove our guilty feelings about not doing something when perhaps what is really necessary is that we do something, maybe even at times, the unthinkable.
It is a trojan horse of a film. It is advertised as a thriller, and it is, one with a very simple, linear plot line. A man sends a video to the law enforcement agencies of the USA in which he states that he has hidden a nuclear bomb in three, unspecified cities in the the United States. They are set to go off, simultaneously, on a certain date in the near future. The man is arrested (he actually gives himself up) and is taken to a secure, secret facility to be interrogated. It is definitely the man who made the video and there are extremely good reasons not to doubt the truth of his claim. The rest of the film shows the torture of the man by the security forces to try and get him to tell them where he has hidden the bombs. This torture starts with so called "acceptable methods" but rapidly becomes more and more "unthinkable." But the plot is simply a vehicle used by the film makers to pose the age-old question, "Do the ends justify the means?" A question the film does not answer.
The genius of this film is that, by using the thriller format, it forces the audience to react to it in the same way that they are used to reacting to thrillers. A psychologically normal person becomes involved in a thriller, they want the good guy to win (usually) and they want the "damsel in distress" to be rescued by the good guy. In "Unthinkable" the "damsel in distress" is the millions of people who are going to die if the bombs go off. A normal person does not want those people to die and the thriller format cleverly encourages the audience to identify themselves with the security forces trying to save the people in danger. By the end of the film you will know if you would do the unthinkable, keep to the Geneva convention or remain confused and wanting to run away from the ethical dilemma.
I now know that I would personally rip a terrorist to pieces, bit by bit, with my bare hands to save those people. Jesus wouldn't, but I would. In fact, I would probably do it to save just my wife, or other loved ones.
I am ambivalent about what this says about me. But I am very pleased to have been put into a position where I had to face up to who I am. Honesty is extremely important to me. On this blog I do not hide who I am behind trite, Christian platitudes. I preach Christ's commandments but always admit my failures to follow them.
Of course, it is extremely unlikely that I will ever be in a position exactly similar to the one in this movie. It is extremely unlikely that I will ever be in a position where I am faced with the choice of torturing somebody or not for any reason. But I have to ask myself the question "Do the ends justify the means?" many times each and every day of my life. Knowing how I would react in an extreme situation will now help me to be honest when I am talking with others about more mundane situations, real and hypothetical, which pose the same question. For example, Mimi posted a discussion starter on her blog, WOUNDED BIRD, yesterday in which she asked the question, "Should closeted LGTB hypocrites who bash others of like sexual orientations be outed? Would you out a basher if you were certain the LGTB person was a hypocrite?" I know what the pat Christian response to this question is but it would be dishonest of me to recommend it when I know what I really think, having watched this film.
There was one thing that disappointed me in the ensuing conversation on the thread to Mimi's post and that was the complete unwillingness of anybody to move beyond the safety of the pat Christian response to ask why we regard the privacy of an individual and that person's wellbeing to be a higher moral imperative than our desire to free the captive. Sometimes, I fear, we use Christian platitude to avoid asking ourselves difficult questions and remove our guilty feelings about not doing something when perhaps what is really necessary is that we do something, maybe even at times, the unthinkable.
UPDATE FROM PRETORIA
From THE SOWETAN:
A Pretoria parish had to obtain an urgent court order to hold its church service yesterday. The move follows a decision on Thursday by South African Council of Churches chairman Bishop Johannes Seoka to close the St Albans Anglican Cathedral for worship. Seoka took the drastic decision following the resignation of resident priest Father Rudolph Paulse. The priest resigned last week after he was allegedly threatened with death by parishioners. The Pretoria High Court ruled that the 130-year-old church be opened with immediate effect for worship. The court also ruled that Paulse be reinstated as a caretaker priest while mediation between the warring parties is being instituted.
Yesterday parishioners welcomed the court ruling and accused Paulse of lying about the death threats. They also accused Seoka of misappropriating the cathedral's funds, dishonesty, breach of trust and corruption. It is claimed that Seoka used R500,000 of the Pretoria diocese's money to pay for his bond. He is also accused of misappropriating R162,000 to fund legal representation against a church dean.
"He is a rascal bishop and we believe that he has lost his mind," a church member said yesterday.
GOD BOTHERING 21ST. MAY 2012
The prayer list for today is now up at SAINT LAIKA'S. If you have a moment, please pop over there, say a prayer and do light a virtual candle as it shows those we are praying for that we do care.
If you have a prayer request that you want including on tomorrow's prayer list, please let me know in the comments to this post, go to St. Laika's and leave it on the Our Prayers forum or drop me an email at madpriestx@sky.com.
If you have a prayer request that you want including on tomorrow's prayer list, please let me know in the comments to this post, go to St. Laika's and leave it on the Our Prayers forum or drop me an email at madpriestx@sky.com.
Sunday, 20 May 2012
MADPRIEST'S THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
Shouting about how oppressed you and "your group" are does not, even if it is true, let you off the hook for the part you have played, and continue to play, in the oppression of others. In fact, it makes it worse, because when you are concentrating so much on yourself you are not doing your best for others, some of whom will be a lot less powerful than you are.
SPECIAL PLEADING
I read this comment elsewhere:
I do not think "straight" people have a say in whether or not to "out" closeted people. It's the same principle as the understanding that White people can't use the "N" word while people of color can.
Okay, so that means only gay people with one leg can out another one legged gay person, I guess.
WHAT A LOAD OF EXCLUSIVE BOLLOCKS!
It is one of my most profound sadnesses that the oppressed look to their oppression as the only thing special about themselves and fight for the right to be regarded as the most oppressed. This leads to so much fighting between different groups of oppressed people (black v. gay, worker v. immigrant etc) that the oppressors must be pissing themselves laughing at us all.
My name is MadPriest and I am mad. That doesn't make me in the slightest bit better or more important or more oppressed than anybody else who is struggling against the powers and dominions of this fucked up world. Which is why I rarely talk about it preferring instead to poke my nose into other people's problems.
So sue me for caring.
I do not think "straight" people have a say in whether or not to "out" closeted people. It's the same principle as the understanding that White people can't use the "N" word while people of color can.
Okay, so that means only gay people with one leg can out another one legged gay person, I guess.
WHAT A LOAD OF EXCLUSIVE BOLLOCKS!
It is one of my most profound sadnesses that the oppressed look to their oppression as the only thing special about themselves and fight for the right to be regarded as the most oppressed. This leads to so much fighting between different groups of oppressed people (black v. gay, worker v. immigrant etc) that the oppressors must be pissing themselves laughing at us all.
My name is MadPriest and I am mad. That doesn't make me in the slightest bit better or more important or more oppressed than anybody else who is struggling against the powers and dominions of this fucked up world. Which is why I rarely talk about it preferring instead to poke my nose into other people's problems.
So sue me for caring.
WORSHIP AT SAINT LAIKA'S
A SERVICE OF HOLY COMMUNION
THE SEVENTH SUNDAY OF EASTER
All are welcome to join me in taking communion.
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