Conclave 2013

If I had the opportunity to voice an opinion/personal perspective on what kind of person I would like to see elected pope, I would most definitely take the chance.   In this day and age it is important that the pope be able to communicate to the younger generation.  I think that the last pope's efforts to connect with the upcoming leaders of our world is very revolutionary.  In order to reconnect our society with the Church culture, a younger pope who has the ability to travel more is in store.  Most importantly,  an honest man who will help clean up the present Church issues is who I would like to see elected pope.

The Theology of Suffering

In the article, "The Mystery of Suffering: How Should I Respond?" by Kenneth R. Overberg 3 important points about Jesus and suffering have been identified. The first point is about Jesus' rejection and elimination of suffering. Jesus spent his precious time on earth healing others and working towards the better. This is seen throughout the entire bible with his life's work. The second main point brought about in the article is about Jesus' belief in not using suffering as a punishment for sin. Jesus cares for all and wants the same for us. The use of suffering as a punishment for sin works in turning people away from God, not towards the light. The third important aspect of this article is “Jesus trusted a compassionate, present God.” We always need to keep God in mind and realize His affect on our lives. He is there for every step of our journey and would never turn away from us. In addition to the aforementioned comments, there are two interpretations of the Pascal Mystery presented. The "Theology of Incarnation" speaks that God's purpose from the beginning is that of 'incarnation'. Jesus was here in God's divine image to save us from sin. The second interpretation given is the "Theology of Atonement". In this philosophy, Jesus was a random sacrifice given to save us from sin chosen separate from his birth. I personally believe in the first idea. Jesus was, from the moment of divine conception, given to the earth to save us. He was the One who was always coming to free us.

Roses in December

"Every catholic should be familiar with the names and story of S. Ita Ford, S. Maura Clarke, S. Dorothy Kazel and Jean Donovan." I really enjoyed the documentary. It gave us a better view of what occurred. It is really terrible that these women went to better the world and had such unfortunate outcomes. Jean Donovan in particular had the world at her fingers and gave it all up to help the dear neighbor. She assumed she would be returning to the life she left and, parallel to the warnings of her loved ones, she allowed to do as such. I agree with the writer. The 4 women left their lives to help and give back to the world. They truly lived the Christian message. As Catholics, we should emulate these heros in an attempt to better the future of society.

"We rise again from Ashes..."

I would like to see a change in the way I live my life. To me, each day is packed tight with items to be accomplished instead of to be enjoyed. I think it is important to step back, take a deep breath, and assist someone else in a way of rejuvenation. I believe that my personal theme this lent is "healing". Whether emotional, spiritual, or even physical, everyone needs a period of healing. As we spoke about in class, there seems to be an increase in violence in our world. As a country, taking a time of healing to repair the damage left by those acts would be helpful. Prayer, fasting, and service are necessary to aide in healing or "creating ourselves anew".