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Why do wine prices vary so much? If you’re at all like me, you find that the more you learn about wine, the more questions you have. Many revolve around pricing, why some wines cost more than others. Have you ever had a wine and thought it tasted expensive, only to find it was $15? Or, the opposite can happen with a wine you don’t think is that great, but costs $50. Although wine tasting is subjective, most agree on what makes a good value. Why is a comparable wine from a country like Chile half the price of one from France? Why are many wines so much more expensive in Halifax than the United States, or even Ontario? The wine business is not for the faint of heart. There’s a huge investment for a return that takes years to recoup. The cost of land, equipment and facilities to ferment, vinify, store and bottle wine can run millions. Then there’s the wait: wait for the land to be ready to plant, wait several years for the first crop and, finally, for the wine to be ready to bottle and sell. If you factor in unpredictable Mother Nature, this process to get juice to bottle is downright difficult. Much of the cost of the bottle we purchase comes from the cost of the land and the labour to harvest and process the grapes. It’s cheaper to buy land and pay employees in Argentina than it is in Napa, California. This difference is enough to influence pricing, hence why we look to certain countries to provide us with “value wines.” So, rather than focusing on affordable, everyday wines, an expensive growing region like Napa has taken the course of marketing higher-priced wines and emphasizing quality in each bottle. I recently read an article on wine costing. It showed that the cost of a particular wine in a study from Chile was actually less than the cost of the bottle and cork it comes with. The actual price of the wine that many of these producers get is less than $3 per bottle. Now we can think about what happens to that wine after the producer has been paid $3 per bottle. First, it’s picked up by the shipper who can charge as much as $5 to $10 per case of 12 to get it to Halifax. Then things get really interesting. Excise taxes add up to about 15 per cent, duty adds another few cents per bottle. Once the wine lands, it belongs to the government and they take anywhere from 100 to 150 per cent markup on the cost per bottle. The import agent gets 10 to 15 per cent of the wholesale cost, HST is 15 per cent, and bottle deposit is $.20. The end result: that $3 bottle of wine costs $12 to get to your table. From my experience, the best values under $25 usually come from Chile, Argentina and, sometimes, Australia. Spain and Italy can also provide good values if you look around. If money is no object, then France, Italy and California are where you’ll find great wines at higher prices.

Descriptive Essay Examples - Research Paper - 421 Words Maybe not all of your academic papers deserve to be framed on the wall. But descriptive essays definitely have good chances for it. Check the following free descriptive essay example with comments and learn how to easily draw true masterpieces with your words. Once you have completed your essay, ask yourself the following questions: Did you prove or describe an idea or image in your essay? If you answered yes, then you have successfully completed your descriptive essay. Now your essay can become one of the many descriptive essay examples available for students to use for help. Writing descriptive essays is easier when you have a few examples to review. You gain further insight on what is expected of you and your topic selection. You can study examples to get ideas on potential topics and how to structure your content. Students use examples to help them learn more about descriptive essay writing, especially if they are new to writing this type of essay. You may have concerns about how to find quality examples and what to know about such sites that offer them. The following points provide additional information on what to look for when seeking descriptive essay examples.If you are having problems with writing of a descriptive essay you should certainly look for a descriptive essay example (or even maybe several examples). Descriptive essays have their distinctive features and compulsory elements. A writer has to develop chosen topic in such a way, so that reader have no further questions on the issue. What are these issues? These may be people, events, facts etc. Descriptive essay examples will certainly help aspiring writers compose persuasive and interesting pieces of writing.

Influenced by the Reggio-inspired idea that children must have some control over the direction of their learning, the Huggins Center curriculum is project-based. This approach emphasizes child and adult-negotiated research on a topic that is both meaningful to the children and worthy of study. For example, in the photos above, preschool children discovered two ducks and a nest in the Center’s Pond Environment. Their questions centered on where the ducks came from, what were in the eggs in the nest, and how long it would take for the eggs to hatch. Provoked by the children’s questions, the teacher provided opportunities for the children to research and investigate their inquiries and to document their findings. Inspired by Reggio Emilia, the Huggins Center recognizes that collaborative and participatory relationships among children, parents, teachers and others not only create powerful and successful education and care programs, but also improve the quality of life in the community. Just as the students documented their newfound knowledge of the ducks in the Pond environment, teachers at the Huggins Center document the process of learning by the children. This Reggio-inspired style of documentation serves as a means of communication. For children, it shows that their work is valued and it allows them to revisit and reconsider the learning experience over time; for parents, the documentation panels involve them in the daily learning experiences of their children; and for teachers, it serves as a tool forassessment, the exchange of ideas, and curriculum development.

Over the years researchers have been searching genomes for links between genetic alterations and cancer. Most of those studies have focused on the portion of the human genome that encodes protein - a fraction that accounts for just 2 percent of human DNA overall. Yet the vast majority of genomic alterations associated with cancer lie outside protein-coding genes, in what traditionally has been derided as "junk DNA." Researchers today know that "junk DNA" is anything but - much of it is transcribed into RNA, for instance -- but finding meaning in those sequences remains a challenge. Now a team led by Lin Zhang, PhD, research associate professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, has mined those sequences to identify a non-protein-coding RNA whose expression is linked to ovarian cancer. The study is published online in this week in Cancer Cell. Supported by the Basser Research Center for BRCA in Penn's Abramson Cancer Center, Zhang and his team built a DNA copy number profile for nearly 14,000 long non-coding RNA, or lncRNAs, across 12 cancer types, including ovarian and breast cancers -- the two major BRCA-related cancers. They found that the number of copies of lncRNA genes on a chromosome consistently change in 12 different cancer types and lncRNA genes are widely expressed in cancer cells. What these non-protein-coding RNAs do is still relatively unknown. However, given their vast numbers in the human genome, researchers believe that they likely play important roles in normal human development and response to disease. Using clinical, genetic, and gene expression data as filters to distinguish genes whose copy number alteration causes cancer from those for whom copy number changes are incidental, the team whittled down their list from 14,000 to a more manageable number, each of which they systematically tested using genetic experiments in animals. Of the 37 lncRNAs the team fully tested, one, which they called focally amplified lncRNA on chromosome 1, or FAL1, had all the makings of an RNA oncogene. FAL1 is one of only a handful of lncRNAs to be linked to cancer to date. This knowledge is being applied for clinical applications. For example, FAL1 expression may be a biomarker of BRCA-related cancer prognosis and the basis of new anti-cancer therapeutics. As proof-of-principle of the potential efficacy, Zhang's team grew human ovarian tumors in immunocompromised mice, then injected short-interfering RNAs to block the tumors' growth using RNA interference against FAL1. The tumors in treated animals shrank over the course of the experiment, while tumors in control animals continued to grow. FAL1 is overexpressed in ovarian and breast cancer samples. Blocking the activity of the gene via RNA interference reduces cancer cells' growth, while overexpressing it in normal cells increases their growth. When the team assessed FAL1 expression in human ovarian cancer samples, they found that high FAL1 expression tended to correlate with poor clinical prognosis. "This is the first genome-wide study to use bioinformatics and clinical information to systematically identify one lncRNA, which we found to be oncogenic," Zhang says. Finally, the team investigated what FAL1 does. They looked for proteins that associate with the FAL1 RNA and identified a protein called BMI1, a member of a gene regulatory complex called PRC1. In the absence of FAL1, the BMI1 protein is unstable. FAL1 RNA stabilizes BMI1, which in turn acts to turn down the expression of several hundred other genes. One of those downregulated genes encodes a tumor suppressor protein called p21. These data, Zhang explains, suggest a molecular mechanism in which amplification of the FAL1 gene in ovarian cancer causes a surfeit of FAL1 RNA. That leads to enhanced stability of the BMI1 protein and downregulation of p21 and ultimately, unrestrained cell growth. FAL1 expression may be able to serve as a biomarker of BRCA-related cancer prognosis, assuming these findings can be validated in other populations. But there also is the potential for new anti-cancer therapeutics, he says, whether those are therapeutics specifically targeting FAL1 RNA or small molecules that block the interaction between FAL1 and BMI1.

They have crashed onto the White House lawn, are omnipresent at festivals and weddings, and recently have been seen helping save children from drowning. Drones are evolving from novelty to part of our culture. For an unapologetic drone-pusher like me, that’s a good thing: People are increasingly willing to accept that this new technology can be used for a wide range of positive things, not just missile strikes in the Middle East. But as drones’ image grows friendlier, I’ve begun to worry that people are focusing too much on what they may do in the coming decades and not what they can do today. This emphasis on the future may be exciting, but it means too few people are contemplating what the technology is currently capable of—and when the same people who drive technology and security policy make that mistake, it’s troubling. Perhaps nothing better illustrates this problem than the fervor with which delivery drones have been greeted. Many envision a future in which skies are crowded with buzzing multirotor aircraft depositing packages of comic books, paper towels, and toothpaste on one’s front door. News outlets leap on every drone-delivery scheme, from the practical (delivering special items in remote areas of the Swiss Alps) to the ridiculous (tacos). Even some anti-terrorism analysts and policymakers appear less interested in drones’ proven potential than they are in how terrorists could use drones to carry explosives or anthrax. But delivery is boring. Much more exciting is drones’ ability to allow anyone to gather aerial data. Yes, that’s right—gathering aerial data is exciting! If drones are going to change our society in the very near future, it won’t be because we got our Kleenex delivered from the air, instead of by truck. It will be because they democratized access to information. For one thing, drones are already really good at taking photographs and shooting video, but they’re still rather lousy at delivering things, whether that object is a pizza or a small bomb. Most drones accessible to civilians still can’t lift much more than 1 or 2 pounds. Battery life remains short, with heavier packages only decreasing a device’s possible flight time, speed, stability, and range. Plus, we just don’t have the sophisticated sense-and-avoid technology that would allow an autonomous drone to successfully and safely navigate to your door. Today’s consumer-available drones remain effectively blind, and no one has yet developed software that would allow the devices to reliably avoid quotidian obstacles like trees, power lines, sudden and strong weather, and overcurious dogs. While such systems are in the works from a number of different sources, from Amazon to NASA, they’re not expected to be online in the near future. Drones also need to avoid manned aircraft and other drones in the air, a problem that will only grow worse as the technology becomes more popular. We’ll likely need some kind of traffic management system, which can work in tandem with autonomous sense-and-avoid technology, to avoid unpleasant aerial mishaps. While quite technologically feasible, such a system will still take a while to implement: NASA, which is partnering with Silicon Valley drone operating system Airware, expects to release a prototype of an unmanned aerial system traffic management system by 2019. Current drone delivery experiments receive supercharged press coverage heralding everything short of the death of the current postal system, but a perusal of these projects’ actual accomplishments and goals paints a much more modest picture. A joint drone delivery-test experiment in Switzerland, organized by the Swiss postal service and drone delivery startup Matternet, has received plenty of press—but a media handout by the group emphasized that the project’s current goals are none too extravagant, focusing only on successfully performing a few special deliveries in remote areas. In the release, the organizers of the event speculate that “specific applications will be realistic within five to ten years.” In October German delivery company Deutsche Post DHL experimented with using a drone to deliver packages to the island of Juist. The unmanned aerial vehicle managed to make the roughly 7-mile trip, but only after multiple delays due to inclement weather conditions. Closer to home, the Federal Aviation Administration approved an experimental pharmaceutical delivery scheme in West Virginia on Friday, but the event only lasted for that day. And then there are the regulatory barriers. Much to Amazon’s irritation, commercial use of drones remains a legal gray area in the United States. While FAA Deputy Administrator Michael Whitaker claimed in June that his agency would finalize rules permitting widespread drone use by private companies before summer 2016, the FAA’s past delays have made many drone proponents skeptical. What’s more, the rules proposed in February would bar drone flight beyond the line of sight of a pilot, a restriction that would rule out Amazon’s drone deliveries. Final rules would have to accommodate the advanced sense-and-avoid and beyond-line-of-sight technologies that Amazon is experimenting with. So why the fascination surrounding delivery drones? Part of the explanation might be because it’s easier for human beings—even really smart ones—to conceptualize physical objects moving in physical space than it is to conceptualize data. In his book Tubes, Andrew Blum observes that as the Internet has become a more pervasive part of our lives, people have viewed it with increasing abstraction (and confusion). The same abstraction challenge is likely happening with the potential uses of drones. It’s easier to contemplate a tangible object, such as a drone, than it is to conceptualize the information it can be used to gather. The data that drones collect can be easily described in accessible ways—a high-definition map, a single photo of a destroyed home, an image created with a special sensor showing the health of a soybean field. But those of us in the drone space have yet to figure out good ways of showing and explaining these images to the general public. Having your groceries daintily delivered from the sky fires the imagination more than the quiet procedure of UAV mapmaking or photography. Using drones to find missing hikers or to help indigenous people create cheap maps may seem more than adequately cool to drone nerds, but it isn’t exactly dramatic enough to fire the imaginations of people who aren’t already invested (financially or emotionally) in the technology. Truthfully, delivery drone–mania isn’t as innocuous as it may appear. For one thing, the emphasis on delivery over data could encourage companies and technologists to focus on a narrow area at the expense of the true possibilities. To get the most of out drones and their potential for giving everyone access to aerial data, we need people who aren’t already highly invested in the drone space to start thinking of solutions, operating off the principle that a bigger pool of users will come up with even better ways to use them. Second, when smart foreign policy and security analysts fail to imagine the full spectrum of drone technology, they’re liable to miss developing threats and trends. Foreign policy types regularly ask me how worried I am about the terrorist threat from small drones, from spritzes of anthrax to the delivery of small bombs. Few seem to be—at least publicly—discussing the challenges posed by criminal and terrorist groups capable of using cheap, consumer-available drones for reconnaissance and intelligence-gathering. The NYPD is concerned about the usage of consumer drones for terrorism but appears to be thinking almost exclusively about how one might attach a gun or a bomb to the flying device. A January Wall Street Journal report on drone terrorism focused largely on explosives and guns, but it at least made cursory mention of how drones might be used for malevolent intelligence-gathering. Former British Labour Party security minister Alan West in January went on the anti drone-terrorism war path, but only mentioned potential physical attacks, rather than intelligence-linked concerns. While an attack by an anthrax-bearing drone doesn’t seem likely to happen soon, drones are already being used in the real world for some suspect info-gathering purposes. ISIS is reportedly using a small fleet of inexpensive commercially available drones. Intelligence collection seems to be the most likely motive behind a recent spate of still unexplained drone flights over French nuclear power plants. And an enterprising U.K. thief has used a heat-detecting UAV to identify marijuana cultivation. Analysts should be giving intelligence-based threats from small drones at least as much consideration as physical threats—not giving them a cursory mention or failing to consider them at all. Both the general public and defense analysts need to be careful about focusing on blue-sky ideas about package delivery and weapons-packing drones to the exclusion of imagining what impact democratized aerial data may have on our societies and our security. Drones are doing all kinds of handy things for humanity, even in the infancy of the technology. They’re being used to protect indigenous land rights, improve agricultural yields, create impressive works of video art, and more, and these applications are only going to expand in the very near future.

A highly promising study published in the journal Phytotherapy Research[i] broke new ground in 2012 by identifying a safe and effective natural alternative to drug therapy in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a painful and debilitating autoimmune disease that can lead to a substantial loss of mobility and function, if not adequately treated. While gradual disfiguration of flexible joints in the fingers are a characteristic sign of this disorder, RA has the potential to affect many tissues and organs by contributing to chronic, systemic inflammatory activity. Estimates are that RA activity beyond the joints, also known as extra-articular rheumatoid arthritis, affects 15-25% of all individuals afflicted by the condition.[ii] Standard treatment often involves the use of pharmacological painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs intended to suppress symptoms but not alter the underlying trajectory of the disease. In some cases steroids, and even chemotherapy class drugs like methotrexate are employed, which carry serious if not also on rare occasion lethal side effects. In the study titled, “A randomized, study to assess the efficacy and safety of curcumin patients with active rheumatoid arthritis,” forty-five patients diagnosed with RA were randomized into three groups with patients receiving curcumin (500 mg) and diclofenac sodium (50 mg) alone or their combination. Curcumin is the most thoroughly researched pharmacologically active component of the spice turmeric, and which gives this root its bright, saffron colored hue. Diclofenac sodium is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) sold under over 100 different trade names throughout the world, e.g. Aclonac, Cataflam, Voltaren. The primary study endpoints were reduction in Disease Activity Score (DAS) 28. The secondary endpoints included American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria for reduction in tenderness and swelling of joint scores. Remarkably, the researchers found that while patients in all three treatment groups showed statistically significant changes in their DAS scores, the curcumin only group showed the highest percentage of improvement in overall DAS and ACR scores (ACR 20, 50 and 70) and these scores were significantly better than the patients in the diclofenac sodium group. They also noted, “More importantly, curcumin treatment was found to be safe and did not relate with any adverse events.” [emphasis added] “Our study provides the first evidence for the safety and superiority of curcumin treatment in patients with active RA, and highlights the need for future large-scale trials to validate these findings in patients with RA and other arthritic conditions.” [emphasis added]

By Kirsten Massebeau If the U.S. Navy is awarded two permits to “take” 31 million whales and dolphins over the next five years the results will be devastating to whales, dolphins, seals and all marine life off the Atlantic Coastline, Hawaii and Southern California Coastlines. The comment period on these two permits closes on March 11, 2013. Both permits are still up for review. Follow these links to see the permits and submit your comments. A sample letter and suggestions have been provided by Stephen Hambrick creator of the Facebook Event: Save Whales & Dolphins from Navy Sonar Massacre! Please enter your comments regarding the Navy sonar testing. Tell them the potential casualty rate of Marine Mammals is unacceptable. – NOTE VERY IMPORTANT. Please Be polite. At the end of your Comment Say the following “Request the application by the US Navy be denied.” The following are all very good examples, however it is not necessary to leave a lengthy Comment. Such as : a) The loss of marine life is too great, the oceans with all the vastly diversified free-roaming life of Cetaceans, together with all the other life forms contained within them are not owned or vested to the determination of the USA. Request the application by the US Navy be denied. b) “I write to express my opposition to this permit. To further allow the Navy to have an increase in incidental takes of Marine Mammals Incidental to Specified Activities; U.S. Navy Training and Testing Activities in the Atlantic Fleet Training and Testing Study Area The numbers of marine mammals the Navy plans to harm, harass, and kill are catastrophic in impact to all the species specified. It is without precedent to slaughter, maim, otherwise harm cetaceans and other sea life on this scale. Request the application by the US Navy be denied. c) This permit seeks to fundamentally effect the balance of the worlds oceans and it’s natural habit I wish therefore to demand that you do not award the navy this permit, which seeks to commit devastation which will have consequences well beyond the the USA oceanic jurisdiction. Request the application by the US Navy be denied. d) Dostana posts, “The loss of marine life is too great, the oceans with all the vastly diversified free-roaming life of Cetaceans, together with all the other life forms contained within them are not owned or vested to the determination of the USA. Request the application by the US Navy be denied.” e) By the Navy’s own admission, per their application. The Navy requests authorization to take individuals in a total of 74 marine mammal species and another 27 more marine mammals, with serious injury or mortality. While I appreciate the Navy’s ability to defend and protect, the training and exercises should not be at the expense of the life of our oceans. For without our oceans. We have no life! A panel of leading marine scientists brought together in Oxford in 2011 by the International Programme on the State of the Ocean (IPSO) and the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN).The suggestion made by the panel is that the potential extinction of species, from large fish to tiny corals, is directly comparable to the five great mass extinctions in the geological record, during each of which much of the world’s life died out. The panel of 27 scientists, who considered the latest research from all areas of marine science, concluded that a “combination of stressors is creating the conditions associated with every previous major extinction of species in Earth’s history”. They also concluded:The speed and rate of degeneration of the oceans is far faster than anyone has predicted; Many of the negative impacts identified are greater than the worst predictions; The first steps to globally significant extinction may have already begun. Dr Alex Rogers, professor of conservation biology at Oxford University and IPSO’s scientific director states: “As we considered the cumulative effect of what humankind does to the oceans, the implications became far worse than we had realized.This is a very serious situation demanding action at every level. We are looking at consequences for humankind that will impact in our lifetime, and worse, in the lifetime of our children and generations beyond that.” Given the state of our oceans at this time, allowing these tests seems to be far beyond a ‘negligible impact’. Therefore I request the application of the US Navy be denied.

An assertion I’ve seen floating around in some of the recent threads on feminism and skepticism has been that women, being slightly over half the population, are not actually minorities. This statement demonstrates a lack of understanding of what makes a person a member of a minority group. This short post is meant to clarify the term for those within our communities who are unfamiliar with how it is used in the social sciences and social justice movements. First, being a minority does not refer to a number. A minority group is defined as a group of people who are systematically denied equal access to resources and power that a socially dominant group has access to. So even if there are more individuals within a minority group than a dominant group, what makes it a minority group is the lack of equal access, not the quantity of members. This means that, yes, women are a minority group. Second, similar experiences as minorities often lead to shared identities, which is also a common feature of a minority group. These shared identities enable minorities to band together and fight for their rights to equal access and their fair share of power. Finally, being a member of a minority group has real and damaging effects on people’s lives. The best example that comes to my mind is health disparities (or health inequities outside the US). The NIH defines health disparities as the “the difference in the incidence, prevalence, mortality, and burden of diseases and other adverse health conditions that exist among specific population groups” (p. 1 of CDC report). Public health researcher and social scientist Ilan Meyer’s minority stress model demonstrates how the stress of being a minority (in his research, LGB individuals) that stems from prejudice and discrimination negatively impacts the health of LGB people. His model is being confirmed, including by a recent study that showed that the health of gay men improved after marriage equality was passed in Massachusetts, even for men who were not in relationships. I hope that this opens the eyes of those within our community who believe that there are no problems faced by minorities within our community. We should strive to make our community a safe, welcoming space by calling out and rejecting the prejudice and bigotry that is directed at minority groups.

Children who are hard of hearing or deaf can thrive being homeschooled. Site also supports deaf parents of hearing children. Hard of hearing or deaf children can thrive being homeschooled. Help with Homeschooling a Deaf Child. Also supporting deaf parents of hearing children. A comprehensive guide to homeschooling for parents who are considering homeschooling, or who have decided to homeschool, a deaf or hard of hearing child. Christine Wixtrom is a homeschool parent who runs a fully volunteer non-profit organization with a mission for placement of ASL videos in public libraries. She has overseen the placement of fourteen ASL Access Video Collections, nationwide. Ten are open, and four more will come, soon. Perhaps you could help, too. Community resources for those using the cued speech materials. Described and Captioned Media Program We are a free-lending library of open-captioned videos. We are funded by the U.S. Department of Education and administered by the National Association of the Deaf. Currently, we have around 4,000 captioned videos in our collection and are adding more each year. National Cued Speech Association Cued Speech is a sound-based visual communication system which, in English, uses eight handshapes in four different locations (“cues”) in combination with the natural mouth movements of speech, to make all the sounds of spoken language look different. Deaf Son and Dad Signing At Dinner An excellent example of the natural language learning and communication that goes on with signing deaf children. Thanks to ASL used in our home, our son (who we brought home just 5 months ago when he had zero language) is already able to visit with him about our trip to China and he understands basic concepts of our answer. Sign writing allows you to read and write in sign language, to learn it and do research. It allows stories and plays to be written in sign language specifically. Options in Deaf Education An impressive number of parents that have deaf children have decided to either homeschool full-time, or homeschool part-time as a supplement to regular education. (Use your browser’s Find command to locate information almost at the bottom of this web page about homeschooling deaf children.) Laurent Clerc National Deaf Education Center Information and Resources Resources related to the development and education of deaf and hard of hearing children. Curriculum Vendors for Visual Learners Packed with resources for the deaf and hard of hearing. Materials for parents, young children and teens. Alex (who can hear) and Leah, (who is Deaf) extend an invitation to infants and children: “Come sign with us”! They introduce tot-friendly American Sign Language (ASL) signs in a playful way-with real children of varying ages proudly showing their signs.

One of the things discussed in Chapter 4 of The Book Whisperer by Donalyn Miller was setting up a reading notebook. In the past while in the classroom, I always used reading notebooks - to some varying degrees of success. I am not sure what I need or want to do as a resource teacher. They will probably have notebooks in their regular classroom so I don't want to overload them. However some type of accountability is needed. I sort of go back and forth at how I want to use this. I do want to have a reading requirement. Miller uses a requirement of 40 books. I will have grades 2 - 5. I am thinking of having 25 for second and going up by 5 each grade. That may not be doable at all. I have no idea what my students are like or capable of. I do want it to be a challenge. I like how she talks about not . . . "punishing" them for not making their goal, but simply celebrating their success whatever it may have been. That I really like. She begins to probe in chapter 5 by asking, "what does reading mean to you?" Just today, I went to our local library and checked out a stack of books. I read constantly. I read professional material. I love mysteries and science fiction and most anything else. I have always been a reader, more at home with books (and my art work) than with most people. Two types of readers (teachers) are discussed. Efferent readers/teachers. They are the ones who see reading as way to acquire knowledge and more skills to be mastered. The other group, aesthetic readers, are the ones who see reading as an emotional and intellectual journey. One sees reading as a gift, the other as a goal. I think to be successful next year I am going to have to "marry" the two together. My future students are going to be in need of heavy skill work - we've got to "catch up", but I also want them to come away from this upcoming year as seeing reading as a gift, a passion.

Gender Disparities in Mortality in Patients With Type 1 Diabetes It is known that type 1 diabetes leads to premature death. Type 1 diabetes, unlike other autoimmune diseases, affects both males and females equally. Although women generally have lower mortality than men, Huxley et al. examined mortality rates for those with type 1 diabetes to see if this gender protection extends to mortality in those with type 1 diabetes. Prior studies have shown that women often have inadequate control of diabetes compared to men. Although some small studies have shown that women with type 1 diabetes have higher mortality, this paper was the first meta-analysis to quantify sex differences in all-cause as well as cause-specific events and mortality in those with type 1 diabetes. A meta-analysis of studies was performed that reported sex-specific standardized mortality ratio (SMR) or hazard ratios associated with type 1 diabetes for either all-cause mortality or various other outcomes. This analysis examined within-sex excess mortality due to type 1 diabetes. A random effects meta-analysis with inverse variance weighting was performed to obtain sex-specific pooled SMRs for all-cause mortality, or mortality from cardiovascular (CVD) disease, renal disease, cancer, accident or suicide, as well incident coronary heart disease (CHD) and stroke. Subgroup analyses were done by baseline year of data collection, by region, by duration of study follow-up, by age of study participants, type of study design, and by quality of study. Data from 214,114 individuals with type 1 diabetes from a total of 26 studies was pooled. The pooled women-to-men ratio of SMR for all-cause mortality was 1.37 (95% CI 1.21-1.56); for incident stroke the SMR was similar, 1.37 (95% CI 1.03-1.81), for fatal CVD, 1.86 (95% CI 1.62-2.15), and for renal disease 1.44 (95% CI 1.02-2.05). For incident CHD, the SMR was 2.54 (95% CI 1.80-3.60). There were no sex differences in mortality for cancer, accident, or suicide. Subgroup analysis showed no significant sources of between study heterogeneity. When compared to men with type 1 diabetes, women with type 1 diabetes had two times the risk of fatal and nonfatal cardiovascular events, as well as 40% greater excess risk for all-cause mortality. Individuals with type 1 diabetes are known to have shorter life expectancy; however, Huxley and his colleagues have now shown that excess risk of mortality is much greater in women with type 1 diabetes compared to men with type 1 diabetes. In this paper, Huxley et al. have extended the evidence for sex-based differences in outcomes from their prior work in type 2 diabetes mellitus to type 1 diabetes. The sex differences in mortality seem to be even more significant in type 1 diabetes, with 37% increase in all-cause mortality and a staggering twofold higher incidence of fatal and non-fatal cardiovascular disease. As with type 2 diabetes, the greater relative risk from type 1 diabetes in women compared to men may be from several important sex-specific contributing factors. One of these underlying factors may be related to undertreatment, difficulties with insulin management, and worse glycemic control in girls and women with type 1 diabetes.2,3 In addition to undertreatment, biological factors including disturbance in the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis in young women may contribute to higher levels of hyperglycemia.4 Finally, it is known that women with versus without diabetes have greater endothelial dysfunction, more fibrinolysis and thrombosis, and higher blood pressure than men with versus without diabetes.5 These treatment and biological differences may contribute to the greater relative risk in women compared to men for all-cause mortality, CVD events and CVD mortality. This growing evidence of sex differences should be used to improve not only the precision of risk prediction models for this population but also the quality of care. To improve this gender disparity in mortality, more resources need to be invested in providing personalized strategies for glycemic control in girls and women with type 1 diabetes. In addition to glycemic control, sex differences in the management of risk factors of CVD need to be addressed on a population level. For instance, a health system response could incorporate gender-specific process measures into physician performance feedback, such as measures of sex-specific glycemic control, sex-specific cardiovascular disease risk factor treatment, and sex-specific risk factor target achievement to aid in not only identifying but also reducing gender disparities in type 1 diabetes treatment and outcomes. - ME Larkin, J-Y Backlund, P Cleary, et al. Disparity in management of diabetes and coronary heart disease risk factors by sex in DCCT/EDIC. Diabet Med 2010;27:451-8. - Arrais RF, Dib SA. The hypothalamus-pituitary-ovary axis and type 1 diabetes mellitus: mini review. Hum Reprod 2006;21:327-37. - Wannamethee SG, Papacosta O, Lawlor DA, et al. Do women exhibit greater differences in established and novel risk factors between diabetes and non-diabetes than men? The British Regional Heart Study and British Women's Heart Health Study. Diabetologia 2012;55:80-7. Clinical Topics: Cardio-Oncology

GATES AND ZUCKERBERG MARK IT CLEAN Bill Gates and Mark Zuckerberg “mark” it clean by launching the “Clean Energy Research Fund”, as an attempt to induce the funding that was made by the private sector towards clean energy. This is basically a campaign that had been launched to reduce the amount of carbon emissions from each and every individual. The launch of the “BreakThrough Energy Coalition” was announced by Zuckerberg in his Facebook page, which marked the need for energy that produced less or if possible, no carbon at all. The BreakThrough Energy Coalition concentrates on working together with countries and its governments, in order to ensure that proper funding is provided for the researchers who are working on the steps to reduce the emission of carbon level and eventually make sure that everybody gets access to energy at an affordable rate. The Coalition claims to concentrate on five basic principles which is to Invest i) Early ii) Broadly iii) Boldly iv)Wisely and v) Together. While Zuckerberg states that,” Solving the clean energy problem is an essential part of building a better world”; Bill Gates states that, ” if we change the price of one thing that would really lift up the lives of the poor people everywhere, it would be the price of energy ”, both acknowledging the fact that energy needs to be available at a less expensive rate. Bill gates also claims (in the video ) that when digital revolutions like The Internet were introduced as a result of Government investment, the attempt to motivate the government to invest more on the BreakThrough Energy Coalition would be fruitful. He also says that the following formula: CO2= P (people) x S (services per person) x E (energy per service) x C (CO2 per unit energy) will accelerate the funding for research and innovation. He is also optimistic about the fact that the necessary investments will be achieved if the countries, the governments and the various companies and industries come together to find out the solution behind the particular problem and that a BREAKTHROUGH will be made for our enhancement.

The Supreme Court's decision this week on the Voting Rights Act left Arizona election and voting specialists split on whether it upholds state sovereignty or leaves voters vulnerable to discrimination. Arizona is among nine states affected by the court’s 5-4 ruling striking down part of the law, freeing the state from having to submit electoral changes to the federal government for approval, a process known as pre-clearance. Joseph Kanefield, a Phoenix attorney and former state elections director, said in an interview for Friday's Arizona Week broadcast that he thinks the court's invalidating of the pre-clearance formula and thus, in effect, pre-clearance itself, was the right decision for Arizona. "From an election administration point of view, things will be much smoother," Kanefield said. "At this point, from the elections officials' standpoint, they will be able to implement their changes in procedures and practices on a much more expedited basis. "It will free them up to do things that may help eliminate lines in polling places and allow them to expedite the counting of ballots after the election," he said. " ... Anything that distracts the election officials prior to the election prevents them from doing the kinds of things that make elections go smoother." An advocate for Latino voters said in an Arizona Week interview that the ruling opens the door to more problems with voter suppression, which he said remains an issue in Arizona. “We still struggle with discrimination, and things like voter ID laws that just put on unnecessary barriers, not only for Latino voters but everybody, to stop them from the easiest path to voting in every election,” said Francisco Heredia, national field director for Mi Familia Vota, a Phoenix-based organization. An official of the Goldwater Institute disagreed. “All of the protections that people think of when they think of the Voting Rights Act – guaranteeing access to the ballot, prohibiting discrimination – they remain intact," said Clint Bolick, vice president for litigation at Goldwater in Phoenix. "Nothing that was illegal yesterday is legal today.” On behalf of the Goldwater Institute, Bolick, on more than one occasion, offered to cover the state's legal costs if it challenged the Voting Rights Act. State officials never took him up on the offer. Bolick said Arizona never should have been subject to pre-clearance, because it never did anything as blatantly discriminatory as what Southern states were doing in attempting to keep blacks from voting in the 1960s. Heredia said the state still should be under pre-clearance, because voter suppression and discrimination continues. He cited the Legislature's passage two weeks ago of a package of early-voting reforms, including a purge of the permanent early-voter mailing list and limits on who can collect and deliver early ballots. Bolick said that before Tuesday's Supreme Court ruling, Arizona officials would have been required to seek pre-clearance from the U.S. Justice Department before enacting the legislation. Now, the law takes effect without federal review, something Bolick called a victory for state sovereignty.

Future Focused Leaders How do we prepare students and teachers for a future that we can’t see or don’t know? This interactive and informative session provides the skills for School Leaders to equip students, parents, and teachers with the tools to thrive in the present and the future. School Leaders will come away with practical, easily implementable, and research-based best practices that can provide sustainable positive change in an innovative culture. Within the Future Focused model of leadership, School Leaders will focus on three areas: relationships, innovation, and inspiration. At the core of what we do as School Leaders, fostering relationships is the most important skill set for the future. Participants will learn how to have courageous conversations, communication skills to deepen their relationships, and how to lead through a conversational approach. School Leaders will learn five innovative digital tools they can immediately use to strengthen their leadership and learning in their school. They will also discover how Augmented and Virtual Reality, Coding, Drones, and more can engage students and teachers. Most importantly, they will learn how to Chase Learning, Not Technology! School Leaders will also be inspired to do great things for their students. In addition to staying energized for the important work of school leadership, they will learn how to get funding for school programs, and how to increase Student Voice and Choice. School Leaders will come away inspired and motivated to be a Future Focused Leader.

A Senate panel met Tuesday as lawmakers weigh whether the U.S. government should raise fuel efficiency standards. Automakers argue it would be too expensive. Sam Kazman, general counsel with the Competitive Enterprise Institute, and Philip Clapp, president of the National Environmental Trust, debated the issue on “Morning Call.” Clapp said that raising fuel economy standards would help consumers at the pump, reduce oil imports and would be a big step in cutting greenhouse gases. “The auto industry has focused on producing very fuel-inefficient cars, which has hurt their business, increased U.S. oil imports and left the country in a dangerous situation,” he said. According to Clapp, raising fuel economy standards is the “only thing Congress can do.” Kazman said the market responds faster than the government when it comes to saving gasoline, citing the Corporate Average Fuel Economy standards, or CAFE, enacted by Congress in the 1970s. “CAFE kills consumers. The National Academy of Sciences found in 2002 that because CAFE restricts the size and weight of cars, it reduces vehicle crash worthiness. The notion that Congress has a better idea for how to build cars is crazy,” said Kazman.

Once the bladder cancer is diagnosed, your doctor may order some imaging tests to see if the cancer has spread to tissues near the bladder, nearby lymph nodes or to distant organs. Tests include: Intravenous pyelogram (IVP), retrograde pyelogram, chest x-ray, computed tomography (CT) scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan, ultrasound and bone scan. The following stages are used to classify the location, size and spread of the cancer, according to the TNM (tumor, lymph node and metastasis) staging system: - Stage 0: Cancer cells are found only on the inner lining of the bladder (The doctor may call this carcinoma in situ – or “in its place”. This stage is also often called Stage Ta). - Stage I: Cancer cells have proliferated to the layer beyond the inner lining of the urinary bladder but not to the muscles of the urinary bladder. - Stage II: Cancer cells have proliferated to the muscles in the bladder wall but not to the fatty tissue that surrounds the urinary bladder. - Stage III: Cancer cells have proliferated to the fatty tissue surrounding the urinary bladder and to the prostate gland, vagina or uterus, but not to the lymph nodes or other organs. - Stage IV: Cancer cells have proliferated to the lymph nodes, pelvic or abdominal wall and/or other organs. Recurrent: Cancer has recurred in the urinary bladder or in another nearby organ after having been treated.

Pet diseases that can be prevented through vaccination. Pet vaccinations are an integral part of keeping your cat or dog healthy. Many of the worst diseases that can affect our furry companions are controlled by vaccinations that are given on a routine basis. Here are just some of the diseases that are kept at bay by simple injections: - Parvovirus in Dogs Parvo is one of the deadliest diseases among canines. The disease can cause gastrointestinal issues, cardiac symptoms and dehydration in young puppies. Parvo proves to be about 80 percent fatal in young puppies, making it imperative that all puppies are properly vaccinated. - Distemper in Dogs Distemper is a disease that results in anorexia, a low white blood cell count, runny nose, eye discharge, and inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. Dogs that survive distemper are left with life-long symptoms. These include problems with the teeth, thickening of the paw pads, and life-threatening disorders of the nervous system. - Rabies in Dogs Rabies is perhaps the most dangerous disease that a dog can carry. The disease is zoonotic, meaning that it is transmissible to humans. The rabies virus enters the brain and wreaks havoc on the nervous system. Once the disease has progressed to the brain, it is fatal within just days. - Panleukopenia in Cats Panleukopenia, commonly called FPV, is a disease similar to parvo in dogs. Cats infected with FPV will display a low white blood cell count, causing a compromised immune system. Symptoms of FPV include vomiting, fever and bloody diarrhea. The disease is highly contagious and often fatal. - Respiratory Disease Complex in Cats Respiratory diseases are common in cats, particularly those who have been born outdoors or have lived in shelters for extended periods. There are a variety of respiratory diseases that affect felines. Vaccination against respiratory illness is the first defense your kitten or cat has against bronchitis and other respiratory ailments. - Rabies in Cats Rabies in cats, like in dogs, affects the nervous system. Rabies in cats can take up to a month to fully develop. Once rabies is detected, it is often past the point of treatment. The only true protection against this fatal disease is inoculation. The above vaccines are considered core vaccines. This means that they are recommended for every dog and cat, regardless of age or location. Other vaccines, called non-core vaccines, may be recommended by your veterinarian depending on your region, the current health status of your pet, and your pets’ risk factors. Vaccines are typically given to puppies and kittens at three-week intervals, starting between six and eight weeks of age. If you’ve brought a new pet into your home, your veterinarian will recommend a vaccination schedule that is appropriate for your pet. It is strongly advised that you follow your veterinarian’s recommendations in order to keep your pet healthy.

Save Your Kidneys - Part 1 by John McDougall, MD The Hard Way, with Medications (This is a technical article, but very important to anyone with kidney disease or taking any of the anti-angiotensin medications—ACE-I or ARB.) The prevalence of chronic kidney disease in the US adult population is estimated to be 10.8% (approximately 19.2 million people). In 1999 in the USA 357,000 people had end-stage kidney disease and the annual cost of dialysis and kidney transplant exceeded $15.6 billion. Almost 70% of new cases of end-stage kidney disease are due to hypertension, diabetes or glomerulonephritis—and these common conditions are in most cases a direct result of foods consumed on the Western diet. Protein found in the urine in amounts of 30 mg/day or greater, is the hallmark sign for the beginnings of chronic kidney disease. Over 300 mg/day is considered serious kidney disease. In general, the more protein in the urine, the worse the kidney disease. Not only does the protein in the urine reflect the health of the kidneys, but this is a reliable sign of the health of the rest of the body, including the blood vessels of the heart, brain, and eyes. Lowering the amount of protein in the urine in some cases reflects an improvement in the kidneys and a person’s overall health. Medications to Prevent Progressive Kidney Disease There are four classes of medications that are believed to slow the progression of kidney disease: antihypertensive agents, drugs that have a blockade effect on the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, cholesterol-lowering agents (usually statins), and blood-sugar lowering medications. Common recommendations are to reduce the blood pressure levels to 130/85 mmHg for people with high blood pressure and kidney disease from diabetes. However, blood pressures of 140/90 mmHg may be low enough and lowering the blood pressure too much is considered detrimental.1 For example, in one recent study of patients with coronary heart disease treated with sustained-release verapamil (a calcium channel blocker) or atenolol to lower blood pressure, the risk of death and heart attack was increased when the diastolic pressure (the lower number) was reduced below 70 to 80 mm Hg.2 The harmful effects of lowering blood pressure were greater for people with diabetes and/or elevated cholesterol. The incidence of heart attacks, death, and/or stroke was three times higher for patients treated with medications with a diastolic blood pressure (the lower number) of 60 mmHg compared to a person with a pressure of 80 to 90 mmHg.2 (A lower blood pressure for people not on medication is, in contrast, healthy.) Recommendations are to lower cholesterol levels with statins to below 150 mg/dl and LDL cholesterol below 77 mg/dl.3 Decreases in blood sugars over the long-term (as measured by Hgb A1c levels) have also been shown to slow kidney disease in people with type-1 diabetes. Renal Protective Anti-Angiotensin Drugs Medications used to slow the progression of kidney disease are referred to as “renal-protective” (or renoprotective) and the most popular of these are a class of blood pressure lowering medications which inhibit the activity of an adrenal hormone called angiotensin. (I will refer to these as anti-angiotensin medications.) These medications fall into two general classes: The kinds that block the production of angiotensin by the adrenal gland are known as angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE-I) and those that block the activity of this hormone at the places where it works in the body (the receptor sites) are called angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB). Research has found the more severe the kidney damage, as reflected by a larger amount of protein in the patient’s urine, the greater the benefits from these medications. Two Categories of Anti-angiotensin Medications Accupril (quinapril), Aceon (perindopril), Altace (ramipril), Capoten (Captopril), Lotensin (benazepril), Mavik (trandolapril), Monopril (fosinopril), Prinivil (lisinopril), Univasc (moexipril), Vasotec (enalapril), Zestril (lisinopril) Cozaar (losartan), Atacand (candesartan), Teveten (eprosartan), Avapro (irbesartan), Micardis (telmisartan), Benicar (olmesartan), Hyzaar (losartan) and Diovan (valsartan). Disease Mongering with Proteinuria The bulk of the research on the medications that modify the effects of angiotensin is funded by the pharmaceutical companies, so the real truths about the benefits of these drugs are hard to know for certain. The amount of protein in the patient’s urine (proteinuria) is the “end point” most often measured to determine a drug’s benefit. However, the “end points” most meaningful to the patient are staying alive, healthy, and off a dialysis machine. Research has clearly established that these medications will decrease the amount of protein in the urine, but their benefits for improved health are seriously questioned. An example of the lack of a direct connection between reducing proteinuria with medication and a patient’s improved health is the diabetic medication Avandia. (Avandia is also known as rosiglitazone.) Rosiglitazone combined with metformin has been proven to provide a greater reduction in proteinuria than other oral antidiabetic combinations.4 Yet, the New England Journal of Medicine on June 2007 published the results of diabetics taking rosiglitazone—they found a 43% increased risk of a heart attack and a 64% increased risk of death from all cardiovascular causes.5 Thus, diabetic patients using Avandia will be more likely to die, but they will die with less protein in their urine. Renal-protective Effects of Anti-Angiotensin Drugs Questioned A study recently published in the Lancet concluded, “…claims that ACE inhibitors and ARBs are renoprotective in diabetes seem to derive from small placebo-controlled trials that provide uncertain evidence of the existence of any true advantage over and above blood-pressure control… There seems to be little justification for ACE inhibitors or ARBs to be first-line choices for renoprotection in diabetes on the basis of efficacy, and residual uncertainty still exists about the inherent value of these drugs in other renal disorders. In view of the present analysis, treatment decisions for hypertension in renal disease should be based on the blood-pressure-lowering effect, comparative tolerability, and cost of antihypertensive treatment.”6 Not only may these two categories of anti-angiotensin medications (ACE-I and ARB) have no special benefits, they may actually be more harmful than other antihypertensive medications. There is good evidence from one very large study that ACE-I drugs result in a higher risk of stroke and cardiovascular disease (like heart failure and heart surgery) when compared to the use of inexpensive diuretics (chlorthalidone) for the treatment of hypertension.7 ARB Increase the Risk of Stroke and Heart Disease8 The VALUE trial showed the angiotensin receptor blocker valsartan produced a statistically significant 19% relative increase in myocardial infarction (fatal and non-fatal) compared with amlodipine and a 13% increase in the incidence of stroke in patients taking valsartan. The CHARM-alternative trial showed a significant 36% increase in myocardial infarction with candesartan (versus placebo) despite a reduction in blood pressure (4.4 mm Hg systolic and 3.9 mm Hg diastolic) vs. placebo treatment. The SCOPE study, candesartan was associated with a non-significant 10% increase in fatal plus non-fatal myocardial infarction despite lower blood pressure (3.2 mm Hg systolic and 1.6 mm Hg diastolic) for candesartan vs. placebo. Patients with Diabetes without Proteinuria A common practice by almost all doctors these days is to treat all diabetics, with or without hypertension, with ACE-I and/or ARB drugs, even when they have no protein in their urine. The highly respected Cochrane review of diabetic patients, many with hypertension, but no protein in their urine, found the future development of protein in the urine was reduced by ACE-I medications, but this had no effect on progression of kidney disease or risk of death.9 Another recent review of the current evidence concluded: “Until more evidence accumulates on the alleged renoprotection associated with RAS inhibition (inhibition of the renin-angiotensin system), it seems reasonable for clinicians to not use pharmacologic intervention with ACE inhibitors or ARBs in normotensive patients with diabetes. For hypertensive patients with diabetes, prescribing a thiazide diuretic would also seem to represent the practice of evidence-based medicine.”10 In addition, patients with kidney disease from causes other than diabetes with low levels of protein in their urine (500 mg/day or less) have not been shown to benefit from ACE-I or ARB medications.11 What To Do? Kidney disease is a serious problem and people with diabetes are at especially high risk of losing the function of their kidneys. Treating high blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar with medications will be of some benefit. However, these medications are associated with serious side effects and financial costs. ACE-I and ARB medications are highly profitable for the pharmaceutical industry and as a result they have spent billions of dollars for research that favors their products and marketing to their sales division, the medical doctors. As discussed above, the real benefits for the patient of using these medications, over less expensive ones, are in doubt. Based on available research, a diuretic, such as chlorthalidone, would be the drug of first choice for treating hypertension in patients with kidney disease. People with diabetes and no protein in their urine should not routinely receive so-called “renal-protective” medications in the form of ACE-I or ARB. In addition, people with kidney disease from non-diabetic causes and no protein in their urine should not take these medications for “renal-protection.” For people with diabetes and significant kidney disease, given a choice between use of an ACE-I and ARB, the ACE-I are more effective with fewer risks that the ARB.12 Hypertension, elevated cholesterol, and type-2 diabetes are due to the Western diet. Likewise, the health of the heart, kidneys, arteries, and the rest of the body is dependent on a healthy diet. What is missing in the current treatment of people with kidney disease is diet-therapy. For almost seventy years doctors have been aware of the profound effect that a healthy diet has on preserving kidney function, and even reversing some of the kidney damage. Next month’s newsletter will continue with a discussion of the most effective form of renal-protection: a healthy, cost-free, low-protein vegan diet. (to be posted soon)

Acne is one of the most common skin diseases during adolescence, affecting an approx 80-90% of teenagers characterized by blackheads, whiteheads, papules, nodules, pimples and possibly scarring. Aside from scarring, its main effects are psychological, such as reduced self esteem and in very extreme cases depression to suicide. Abhishek Hospital has recently acquired a latest top of the line treatment for acne scars and facial rejuvenation known as Intra-Dermal RF. This technology involves a set of very tiny needles which goes into the skin and simultaneously gives RF current which causes good stimulation for collagen lying. Laser resurfacing and Intra-Dermal RF if done simultaneously gives excellent results in acne scarring. Many different treatments exist for acne scars. Decreased intake of carbohydrates like sugar will help reducing acne. Medications for acne include: Benzoyl peroxide, antibiotics (either topical or by pill), retinoids, antiseborrheic medications, anti-androgen medications, hormonal treatments, salicylic acid, alpha hydroxyacid, azelaicacid, nicotinamide and keratolytic soaps. Early and aggressive treatment is advocated by some to lessen the overall long term impact to individuals. Basically we treat Acne scars in 3 steps: 1. PRE PROCEDURE- Initially dermatologists at our hospital diagnose whether the acne is mild or moderate or severe one. Then we prescribe the lotions and anti-acne cream. 2. ACTUAL PROCEDURE- Acne scarring is the result of inflammation in the lower layer of the skin called dermis which causes the collagen to become deformed or scarred, resulting in the depressions or alleviations in the skin. - Laser Therapy is commonly used modality in the treatment of acne scars. Laser resurfacing has long been used in the treatment of acne scars. - Traditional resurfacing lasers like CO2 or erbium can cause improvement in acne scars but require 3-8 weeks down time. - A new laser resurfacing procedure, named Fractional Resurfacing is currently the most effective laser procedure in the treatment of acne scars. This procedure resurfaces the skin gradually, 20-30% at a time, which allows for rapid healing while eliminating the risk of rawness associated with traditional laser resurfacing procedures. - The zones of thermal laser damage serve as a stimulus for collagen production filling in the pitted appearance of serve as a stimulus for collagen production. - Treatments are typically done every 3-6 weeks. Scars on any body surface area can be treated with the fractional laser, although scars on the face respond the best. - Patients have to be aware that there is no cure for (acne) scars but that the fractional Laser can result in significant improvement in the appearance of acne scars, far superior to any other procedures. - Other treatments for severe acne scars may require – - scar excision - scar revision - filler or fat injections - chemical peels as per case to case. After the treatment the prevention is also explained like washing oily face regularly and stop touching face often. 3. POST ROCEDURE- After the treatment the home remedies to keep the face clean is explained along with that regular checking of the affected skin to ensure flawless results. Why does even washing of face several times does not prevents acne ? Sometimes unusually the washing of face may cause oil glands to produce more oil causing it. Who all are victims of cane? Some people think that teenagers are common sufferers but acne can be to anyone irrespective of age and gender. What is the acne recovery time period? Acne is not sure about to get cleared 100% but the severity of it determines its recovery time. Is it harmful to press the blemishes or acne scars? At times, the squeezing may cause deeper inflammation and so dermatologists at Abhishek hospital do with extra care and attention. Which is the most appropriate method to get rid of acne scars? Laser treatment and chemical peeling are found to be much apt in an acne scar removal treatment. Does diet plays a role in causing acne ? It is a myth that acne is caused by poor diet but yes balanced diet is required for a refreshing skin.

ANSBACH, Germany (Dec. 13, 2016) – The weather in central Europe may be foggy any time of the year, but most commonly fog settles over Germany during the fall and winter months. A combination of fog and the lack of speed limits on sections of the autobahns greatly increases chances for vehicular accidents. The best advice we can give to drivers confronted with thick fog is to get off the road as soon as possible. Sometimes, however, that is impractical. If you can’t or won’t pull off the road we offer the following advice: - Keep your minimum safety gap to three seconds in ideal conditions; with the decreased visibility fog causes, this interval should be increased substantially. - Slow down. Most fog-related traffic fatalities occur because someone was driving too fast and couldn’t stop in time to avoid a collision. - Make sure that you can be seen. Turn on your fog lights, and use low beams. High beams direct light up into the fog making it difficult for you to see. Low beams direct light down onto the road and help other drivers to see you. - If you leave the road, be sure to pull off completely. Turn off your driving lights and turn on your flashers so others know you’re there but won’t think you are driving on the road. - Always use your defroster and windscreen wipers in foggy conditions to keep the windows clear. - Keep an eye on your speedometer and maintain a slow, constant speed. - Remember that other drivers have a limited sight distance and that fog can leave roadways slick. Signal early, and when you use your brakes, don’t stomp on them.

If there’s anything you should know about me as a designer, it’s the fact that I am a HUGE advocate for drawing. No matter how good or bad you think you are at it, if you’re a creative person, drawing is incredibly beneficial for your design skills, creativity, and mental health. I swear I’d be a crazy person if I couldn’t draw every day. So if you’re a beginner and you’ve never had the satisfaction of filling a sketchbook from cover to cover, follow these tips to get yourself started. Get a sketchbook, it doesn’t matter what size or shape or quality. The cheaper the better. I’ve personally found that if you buy a super nice, expensive sketchbook you’ll be too scared to draw in it, so buy a cheap one. (Believe me. I’ve got at least one or two that I can’t touch out of fear of messing them up.) Make sure it’s transportable and not too heavy to carry around with you. And most importantly….FILL IT UP. Get drawing tools. Start with simple, cheap pencils you have laying around the house (mechanical or classic wooden, either one works), and pen (literally anything goes here, but I love rollerball (not waterproof) or microns/steadtlers (waterproof)). And I REPEAT, go cheap. You can splurge when you’re good and ready. The ultimate artists question… What to draw? Google search “drawing prompt.” There are so many people who have created all sorts of lists of things to draw. We all know that Google is a bottomless pit of ideas an information, so just get started Googling what you’re interested in. There won’t be a shortage of ideas out there! Commit to a daily challenge. I did the #handletteredabcs challenge on Instagram at the beginning of this year that was every day for 26 days. It got me in a rhythm of drawing every day, and made it easier to continue to draw every day once the challenge is over. Challenges are also a wonderful way to grow an audience and meet other people who are interested in the same thing as you! Get on Instagram. Not only is Instagram a good place to find challenges, but it’s also great for holding you accountable! People expect posts once you’ve committed to them online. It’s also a great place to follow those you look up to and gives you easy access to ask them questions. Use Pinterest for inspiration (but not copying). Pinterest has millions (maybe billions?) of photos to choose from, whether you’re looking for fashion, lettering, or illustration, there’s an endless amount of references on Pinterest. BUT be careful to not directly copy someone else’s work. A great tip is to do your research on what you want to draw and then step away from your computer and draw from memory! Draw what you see not what you know. There’s a huge difference between drawing what you think a dog should look like versus what the dog in front of you actually looks like. For example, you know a dog has two floppy ears and a dark black nose, but do you see the how the ears are shaped differently from each other? And that wet black nose actually has lighter areas on it where the light hits it. Get out and draw! One of my favorite things is going to a coffee shop and picking an interesting part of the room and drawing it! It’s great practice on perspective and helps you get away form trying to focus on too many details in your drawings. Don’t be discouraged with imperfection It’s really easy in the beginning of learning anything new to be discouraged with not being pro-status right when you start. We all have big, wonderful ideas of what the quality of our work should be, but when it doesn’t come out exactly how we pictured it, we get frustrated. The key is to practice. Any chance you get. Doodle in class or in meetings when you can just listen without having to give visual attention, or when you’re watching TV, or hanging out with friends. The more you draw the better you’ll get. It will take time. Be patient with yourself, and really focus on what you want to get better at. You can do it. Pick up the pen and paper and just start.

This is an abbreviation for Endo-Venous Laser Ablation. It is a widely practiced technique for treating varicose veins. It is usually performed using a local anaesthetic whilst the patient lies on an operating table. A laser fiber is inserted along the length of the saphenous vein, which is usually the main vein from which varicose veins arise. Before firing the laser fiber, the patient is positioned head down and legs up to empty the veins of blood. The heat from the end of the laser fiber tip destroys the vein as it is pulled out slowly. Associated varicose veins frequently need treatment at the same session, either by pulling them out through small cuts in the skin or by injecting them with foam. Occasionally they disappear on their own after EVLA. A pre-operative test which can identify those patients requiring concomitant phebectomies and those patients whose veins disappear spontaneously after EVLA would be an interesting topic to investigate as a future research project. VICTOR CANATA We have been performing laser treatments for varicose veins in Paraguay for more than ten years on over 1500 patients, with an excellent record of saphenous occlusion (> 98% in 2 years) and safety. All treatments are performed in an office setting, using a 1470 nm wavelength laser fiber, 400 µm in diameter. The procedure is safe, easy to perform and well tolerated by the patient. No general or regional anaesthesia is required. Local anaesthetic is injected under ultrasound control to surround the vein with fluid (tumescence). This acts as a heat sink to protect surrounding tissues, nerves and skin from thermal injury. The procedure has higher rates of acceptance than conventional surgical stripping with a faster return to normal activities. Groin access is not required so there are no wounds to heal at this location. Our achievement in excellence in technique and cost-effectiveness include the use of a large, high resolution monitor for detailed visualisation, and our commitment to a standardised efficient working environment. The laser delivers energy to destroy the refluxing great saphenous vein (GSV) at a power setting of 9 – 14 Watts. The fiber is positioned 1 cm below the sapheno-femoral junction (SFJ) and fired in pulses, with a pull-back speed depending on the diameter of the vein to be destroyed. We aim for an energy delivery of about 70-90 Joules/cm. The vein is checked with ultrasound during and after completion to confirm a successful ablation. Patients are instructed to resume daily activity and to wear stockings for one week. In the unlikely event of a saphenous recanalisation at the one week follow-up, we can repeat the procedure using a higher energy delivery rate. Continued evaluation and long term follow up are required to define the complete role of the laser in the treatment of varicose veins. EVLA in an office based environment. Transillumination provides feedback on the location of the tip of the laser fiber which is seen here in the mid-thigh part of the great saphenous vein. Bubbles of gas released from a laser fibre during its action in ablating a GSV. The laser fibre tip is seen at the base of the arrows and is being withdrawn from left to right.

As human rights advocates around the world celebrate the 64th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights this week, their counterparts in the United States are mourning the Senate's rejection last week of the international convention for disability rights. Appalling in its own right, the Senate Republicans' defeat of the 21st century's first human rights treaty is a sad but sharp reminder that misinformation and fear can still override fundamental principles of human decency and common sense. More importantly, it is yet another blow to the United States' ability to play a leading role in promoting freedoms and human dignity in the world. The international bill of rights adopted by the United Nations on December 10, 1948, still stands as the gold standard in the daily fight for basic human rights today. As our societies democratize, mature and progress, human rights defenders are winning longstanding battles to expand the frontiers of rights to include women, children, indigenous peoples, LGBT communities and migrants. Economic and social rights are ascendant as well, as people make claims for the essentials of human life: water, food, health, jobs and education. The United States has a long and generally bipartisan tradition of concern for human rights, a pillar of its founding principles. Americans also have been at the forefront of the global human rights movement for generations and consider ourselves a leading example for others of a rights-respecting society, even if we still have much work to do to improve our record. Indeed, it was Congress' passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act in 1990 that paved the way for the international campaign for disability rights and which served as the standard for the treaty the Senate rejected. When it comes to international law, however, some Americans get confused. The image of the United Nations as a supranational body with powers to insert itself into our living rooms persists even though there is no evidence to support it. This myth-making, and its inherent contradictions, are in full display in Rick Santorum's bizarre opinion essay published last week in The Daily Beast. In it, the leader of the conservative movement, to defeat the treaty, claims that unelected U.N. bureaucrats could take away a parent's power to demand special education services for a disabled child. He then asserts that there is no point in ratifying the treaty because it "would do nothing to force any foreign government to change their laws or to spend resources on the disabled. That is for those governments to decide." Precisely. The hallmark of the U.N. human rights system is its success in elaborating international standards for protecting a comprehensive set of human rights, monitoring states' respect for those rights and making recommendations for improving their records. In exceptional cases involving gross violations, such as war crimes and mass atrocities, governments (though not the United States) have agreed to a more robust set of mechanisms, like the International Criminal Court, to hold individuals accountable. The emerging doctrine of responsibility to protect civilians has even been applied to prevent the slaughter of civilians in Libya. But these measures are a far cry from any alleged interference of U.N. lawyers in our schools and homes. At the end of the day, however, national sovereignty trumps these efforts, leaving any state free to follow its own path for governing its people. For better or worse, that's the way it works. There is a broader and more disheartening message that the world hears from Washington on this year's International Human Rights Day: The United States is losing its moral voice on human rights because it is not leading by example. As one human rights defender remarked to me recently, his government routinely cites U.S. treatment of detainees at Guantanamo as justification for its own violations of human rights. When the exceptional case, like the "necessary" measures adopted to wage battle against terrorists, becomes the norm, we have lost a major source of credibility to promote basic principles of due process and "innocent until proven guilty." Unfortunately, the conservative movement's victory in defeating the disability rights treaty is just the latest example of our political leaders' failure to convert high-sounding rhetoric into meaningful action when it comes to human rights. If a war hero Republican like Bob Dole, who uses a wheelchair, cannot persuade his colleagues to do the right thing, then we are all the losers in the battle for human rights.

The Big Diabetes Lie How You Can Reverse Type 2 Diabetes Naturally The Big Diabetes Lie and the 7 Steps to health. More than 20 million people in the United States suffer from type 2 Diabetes. Each year nearly a million more are diagnosed. With such rapidly growing numbers, science is desperate to find out why. More than 20 years ago science discovered that individuals who had type two diabetes had body immune systems that were hyperactive. This leaves inflammatory chemicals in their body already. Harvard University determined this in the late 1990s and determined one of the players in the situation as TNF Alpha, which is a chemical that the immune cells secrete. If you are a victim of type 2 Diabetes, you understand the havoc it can wreak on your health as well as on your finances. Not all your diabetic materials are covered by every insurance coverage. Checking your blood sugar level and making certain that it remain in typical limits, blood sugar medications such as insulin and other oral medications are extremely pricey. What would it suggest to you to be able to do without those things once again? Consider the Possibilities? What if you could overcome your type two diabetes and get control of your blood sugar level? What if you could change things for the better with your life and your heath? What if you could stop taking costly prescription drugs and have the ability to have a lower A1c? Sound Like It’s Too Excellent to Be True? There’s an old saying that if a thing sounds too excellent to be true, it probably is … however not always. Think of the difference that a single vaccination made in our lives. It essentially got rid of smallpox. Consider the change that the discovery of penicillin made in the lives of millions of individuals. We Can Assist You to Lower your A1C and Change the Way Type 2 Diabetes Impacts Your Body. In the last year alone, the amazing product that you read about assisted nearly 45 thousand individuals get control of their blood sugar level and lower their blood sugar level levels, lower their insulin level of sensitivity as well as permitted many of them to stop taking medication.

We are very pleased to announce that Anime Feminist and Sakuga Blog are collaborating to add more diversity to sakuga content creation! Over the next 12 months we will work together to increase the recognition for and numbers of women blogging on sakuga through our new Women in Sakuga Programme (WiSP). Why focus on women creating content on sakuga? Now we at AniFem have committed to pay all our contributors from January 2017, we can begin to curate our content to make AniFem more comprehensive and inclusive. As we considered which voices we need seek out and which topics we need to start covering, we realised we know no women creating content on sakuga. At all. We asked bloggers, YouTubers and high profile sakuga fans, but none of our contacts were able to suggest a single woman already writing or making videos in sakuga fandom. Even if these women exist (we know that some must and hope they will make themselves known so we can signal-boost their work!) such lack of recognition is clearly a problem. Sakuga is an exciting and varied field of analysis. Unfortunately, it looked like we would have no choice but to commission cisgender men to write about it for us or have no content at all. Faced with this choice we began to wonder: why don’t more women create content on sakuga? Why is sakuga fandom so male-dominated? One of the AniFem team asked this question on Twitter. In the resulting conversation between high profile male sakuga bloggers, women interested in sakuga blogging, and other sakuga fans, we identified three possible causes: - Comment threads, typically more hostile to women than men, might not seem worth dealing with in male-dominated corners of fandom - Impostor syndrome might be convincing some women that they are unqualified to speak about sakuga, particularly given the current fandom inclination to put certain sakuga bloggers on a pedestal - Women may just have not considered analyzing anime from this perspective before In that conversation it became clear that men creating content on sakuga are very keen to see more women join their ranks. So how do we make that happen? At AniFem we know we can alleviate concerns about comment threads. We were certain the support of sakuga content creators would offset impostor syndrome. All we had to do was give women an incentive to start creating sakuga content and see if it would increase the numbers of women in this area. What is the Women in Sakuga Programme? The Women in Sakuga Programme (WiSP), an Anime Feminist and Sakuga Blog collaboration, is a 12-month initiative to increase fandom awareness of women creating content on sakuga. As it seems like there aren’t many, our first goal is simply to increase the number of articles about sakuga written by women. To accomplish this we will 1) actively recruit women to write about sakuga for us, 2) work with them to develop an article that is a good fit for AniFem, then 3) pay them for their work at the same rates as every other writer. The Sakuga Blog team will mentor each contributor, offering advice, information and draft reads to ensure the author feels confident with their finished piece. By December 2017, we want anyone asking for recommendations of women creating content on sakuga to be able to come up with multiple names easily. This could mean discovering next year that the causes we identified above are all wrong, then working with the Sakuga Blog team to come up with new ways to increase sakuga blogging diversity. We could learn of women already creating sakuga content in a different corner of fandom, and start raising awareness of their work. However we achieve it, in 12 months we want there to be widespread name recognition for multiple women creating content on sakuga. Now over to our Sakuga Blog partners for a little more information about what sakuga blogging is, what value it brings and why women should get involved… What do we mean by ‘sakuga’? Sakuga discussion has evolved a fair bit over the years. Once upon a time it was largely centered on the animation within a show and the people responsible for it, largely due to the fact that there were very few venues talking at length about it. Nowadays it has become just another lens with many applications; one can focus on the nuance in an episode’s visual direction, the very production process, or the usage of animation as core narrative rather than a coat of paint. There’s no real limit to the topics you can explore, it even allows holistic analysis of creators and their work. Why should women blog about sakuga? This leads to two very specific whys, though. Why do we do this in the first place, and why is it important to increase diversity in this area? In terms of the former, delving into the intricacies of animation is helpful on a personal level as it allows you to identify and learn more about creators whose work resonates with you most, which then can lead to write-ups that help other individuals go through a similar experience, too. This is actually a topic others have discussed previously, and one worth reading into. Of course, that’s not to imply there’s a need to be into sakuga. Like all things, a certain level of investment is required, but if the curiosity is there, then there’s no harm in diving in! As for the latter, there’s inherent worth in a diversity of points of view, so even though a lot of the time these sakuga essays are structured around comments by women creators, we’re limiting the community to a degree by only having men controlling the discourse. Where do you start? All that being said, wandering into the land of sakuga equipped with little to no knowledge can prove to be a tricky venture, but thankfully people have taken care in making the journey somewhat easier for those interested in doing so. Kevin’s ending credits guide on ANN serves as a solid introduction to the multiple roles involved with the production of anime, and Kraker2k created a handy guide over at Sakugabooru itself with 101 knowledge and links to other blogs where sakuga serves as the major focus. Who can participate in WiSP? While we are targeting self-identified women we also warmly welcome submissions from people who do not fit so neatly into the gender binary. WiSP is designed to address lack of diversity, and while women are the easiest starting point we would be thrilled to support greater representation of other marginalized voices within sakuga fandom. If you are not a cisgender man and you are interested in creating content on sakuga please get in touch! What kinds of topics do we want WiSP applicants to pitch on? As stated above, there’s no real limit to the topics that you can explore. We just ask that you explore them through a feminist lens. Examples of the types of Sakuga Blog content we could easily adapt for use on AniFem: - Profiles on lesser-known women creators - Information on working conditions in the industry - An in-depth look at specific design elements - Explaining how different animation styles are used most effectively You can focus on marginalized creators, the strengthening (or weakening) of representation of marginalized characters through their animation, analyze how visual direction can be used to create subversive subtext – there are so many possibilities we won’t even have thought of yet. We look forward to your pitches on how you would apply sakuga analysis for feminist purposes! What will be the process for WiSP participants? Involvement in WiSP will be almost identical to our standard submission process, except that the Sakuga Blog team will be involved from the pitch stage. We will select pitches as usual according to our own criteria, then forward any we select to the Sakuga Blog team to check that the idea is solid. When we both agree the idea has potential, we will contact you to assign you an editor as usual, but also a mentor from Sakuga Blog. You will work with your mentor and editor to flesh out your idea and build a detailed outline to be approved by the AniFem editor-in-chief. Once the outline is approved you will be commissioned just like any other writer and begin working with your mentor and editor to develop your article. Your Sakuga Blog mentor will be on hand to answer any questions and check your draft before submission. Your AniFem editor will ensure the article stays in line with AniFem’s mission and ethos. The result will be a post you can be proud of, new contacts, and the confidence to pitch other posts to other sites or start up your own. How do I get involved? Head over to our submission form and let us know you’re interested! We can’t wait to hear from you.

Stock Market Predictions - Do Candlestick Signals Work? It is often asked whether the candlestick signals are effective in long-term stock market predictions. Unfortunately, the answer to that is yes and no. Yes, in the sense that if the definition of long-term is two, three, or six months out in the future, the signals can be used on a monthly chart as effectively as they can on a one-minute chart. Keep in mind that the candlestick signals are the visual depiction of investor sentiment. Candlestick analysis is the evaluation of what the current and near future projected sentiment will be in a trend. Learn to make your own stock market predictions, quick and easy technical analysis training with Stephen Bigalow via online webinar training sessions. Stock market predictions of one year out into the future is not logical and any technical or fundamental analysis in this day of age. The reason is that with the information available on the Internet and TV on an instant access basis, investment decisions and psychology can change dramatically based on new information becoming available. To try to make stock market predictions for what will happen over the next 12 months is not a relevant exercise. What looks to be a feasible projection today can easily be influenced by world events and/or the introduction of new competitive elements into a specific market. The purpose of candlesticks is not to project what will happen in a year from now, but to take advantage of what the investor sentiment is doing today. Today’s stock market projections can change dramatically at any point in time. The candlestick signals provide the opportunity to evaluate what investors are anticipating for the near-future. That short-term reversal signal may also alert the fundamental investor on new dynamics coming into the value of that company. This makes candlestick signals an excellent timing factor for those that are investing in long-term fundamentals. Market Direction – Another strong morning Star signal formed early this week in the Dow. The fact that the stochastics were on the oversold area in the morning Star signal was forming at approximately the same area as we are a double morning Star signal formed back in early August may just a very logical area to start buying. That is why it was recommended to buy aggressively and in the pre-market comments the day after the doji formed. The current conditions of the stochastics indicate at the 50 day moving average 200 day should be the first target. At the same time, the NASDAQ also formed a doji and although the buying was not at the same magnitude as the Dow the next day, Wednesday confirmed the buying when the NASDAQ closed above the 200 day moving average. Additionally it closed above the last recent high of early October with the stochastics starting back up. It has been healthy to see the selling early in the morning followed by buying in the afternoon the past few days. It would not be unusual to see the NASDAQ consolidate back to the moving average early next week before it continued its uptrend. A more general analysis was illustrating that the market was not selling off in general. This would have been evaluated in the fact that the NASDAQ was trading sideways while the Dow was in a three-week decline. The assumption would be that money was shifting from sector to sector, not coming out of the market.

A political earthquake may be about to rock Sudan and send tremors across Africa. A referendum is scheduled to occur on 9 January in which southern Sudan's eight million inhabitants may vote to separate from the 34 million citizens of northern Sudan and create their own new nation -- the US-backed state of South Sudan. Many of modern Africa's borders are artificial: they were drawn by European colonial powers heedless of the continent's tribal, linguistic or economic geography. Any changes in these borders are likely to unleash dangerous tensions, even demands for secession across the continent. One of Africa's strongest taboos has been that borders inherited from the colonial era were immutable. A break-up of Sudan, Africa's largest nation, will bring into question the continent's entire geopolitical architecture. Sudan is a doleful example of a colonial Frankenstein, an African version of that other British-created national disaster, Iraq. Sudan extends from the Arab world and the sub-Saharan Sahel into the heart of black Africa; it was cobbled together by the British Empire to safeguard the Nile, Egypt's sole source of water, and to provide agricultural lands. Within Sudan is a dizzying collection of almost 600 often feuding tribes speaking 400 different languages spread over a vast area: northern, Arabic-speaking Muslims and Nubians; ferocious Beja from the Red Sea Coast ("Fuzzy-Wuzzies" to the British); wild Bagarra nomads from Darfur; and Stone Age tribes from the upper Nile. It is remarkable that Sudan has held together for so long. A low-intensity civil war has raged for 60 years between Muslim northerners and non-Muslim southerners in which two million are said to have perished. Muslims make up 75% of Sudanese; animists (traditional African faiths) account for about 20%, and southern Christians some 5%. Islamic law has been applied in the north, but rejected by most non-Muslim southerners. Southern Sudan's Christian secessionist movement has long been guided and financed by British and US Christian missionaries who saw the region's Stone Age tribes as fertile ground for conversion. Western "humanitarian" aid groups have played a key role in fostering the south Sudan independence movement. American Evangelical groups, including so-called "Christian Zionists." who are fiercely anti-Islamic, have been playing an important role in promoting southern Sudan's secessionist movement. American evangelicals now account for over 40% of Republican voters. South Sudan has been rent for decades by local conflicts between its three main pastoral Nilotic tribes, the Dinka, Shilluk and Nuer, who routinely launch raids on one another for cattle and women. Their feuds are likely to carry over into a new south Sudanese state. Sudan has also suffered another confusing conflict in the remote western regions of Darfur and Kordofan between nomadic and farming peoples. The International Criminal Court in the Hague has indicted Sudan's strongman, Gen. Omar el-Bashir, for war crimes in Darfur's murky tribal war that has become a cause celebre in the West. Just how much Gen. Bashir's regime is responsible for alleged mass killings in Darfur's tribal melee remain uncertain. But Sudan is on the US black list as a terrorist supporter and under US sanctions. Independent-minded Sudan, branded a "rogue state" by Washington, has long been targeted for "regime change." The US media and evangelical Christian groups have demonized Sudan and Gen. Bashir, and branded him a dangerous Islamist. Hysteria in North America over Darfur is exceeded only by the public's total lack of knowledge about this remote, complex region that is deceptively portrayed by media as a simplistic morality struggle between wicked Muslims and helpless black farmers. Israel has been very active in arming and supporting the South Sudan SPLA guerilla movement, and will assume an even more influential role if southern Sudan goes independent. Israel has long exercised influence in Sudan. Israel successfully bribed the late Sudanese dictator, Jaffar al-Numiery, to allow Ethiopian Falasha Jews to fly to Israel from Sudan. Sizable deposits of oil were discovered in Sudan over the past decade. They are mostly located in south Sudan but the Khartoum government controls the export pipeline which runs north to Port Sudan on the Red Sea. China has become a major customer of Sudanese oil. Washington intends to elbow the Chinese out of Sudan if the south breaks away. Control of global oil plays a primary role on US foreign and military policy. As a result, the US has become ever more deeply involved in Sudan's affairs. Washington has been discreetly working with southern Sudan to create a government, financial system, police, and army. South Sudanese officials are being trained in the US. The number of US diplomats and intelligence officers in Sudan has tripled. A break-up of Sudan may have an immediate effect on other unstable neighbors, like Somalia, Chad, and the Republic of Congo. Ethiopia, itself an unstable amalgam, may get more deeply involved in the region. Egypt, eternally sensitive about who controls the Nile's life-giving waters, is deeply worried about Sudan's future and fears a new regime in the south may begin diverting the river's waters. Just at a time when the US is increasingly active in Djibouti, Yemen, Somalia, Mali, Ethiopia, Kenya and Uganda, it finds itself deeply involved in engineering the break-up of Sudan. All this may be a bridge too far for the already over-stretched US military, intelligence services, and State Department, not to mention the empty US Treasury that now runs on borrowed money. So all eyes on Sudan in the coming weeks.

A hybrid costing system is a system used by businesses that combines job order activities as well as process costing activities. Hybrid costing often refers to operation costing which is used in the production of goods. This type of costing is used when similar products are manufactured that have common characteristics for many parts of production, but yet are different in others. A shoe manufacturer might process all shoes the same up to a certain point. After this point, however, the production of the shoes change to offer different types and styles. Hybrid costing is used to separate costs and allocate costs to individual products or groups of products. Through hybrid costing, overhead costs and labor costs must be allocated to goods produced. Because much of the production is the same for all products manufactured, accountants use hybrid costing to distinguish these costs and determine individual product costs.

Nearly anyone who has experience raising goats will tell you that a shelter is very important. Perhaps even more important than fencing. And in my travels and talks with other goat people, I have heard of and seen a large variety of shelters - some prefabricated, some makeshift - but all of them essential and functional. Okay, so you're asking, "why such a big deal about shelters". They are just goats and goats live in the wilderness don't they?" Yes and no. While goats as a species do come from the wild, they still have an instinct to seek shelter in inclement weather. And one must remember, goats that are raised by humans are primarily domesticated. They do lose a bit of their "wild" instincts in captivity. For the most part, what you are trying to accomplish with a goat shelter is to protect the goat(s) from the wind and rain and snow. A goat that gets wet will almost certainly become ill. A wet goat in the wind will also almost certainly produce a sick goat. And a key issue to remember is that goats easily get pneumonia if wet and cold, and pneumonia in a goat is a swift killer. So it should be taken to heart that goats need shelter. Not everyone has the luxury of a barn where they can herd their goats together at night or during inclement weather. So improvisation is most often the best choice here. But for those that do have a barn or building as such, let's start here because this is really the best, and most convenient to you and your goats. The first thing to understand (and it took me awhile) is that goats cannot tolerate as easily sudden temperature changes. -40 degrees outside and 80 degrees inside. Some will argue this but I stand firm because even humans cannot tolerate such temperature differences without some kind of health concerns. So heating a shelter is probably not necessary unless of course a few regular light bulbs to keep the temperature a few degrees warmer are used. Goats, like many other animals such as horses have hollow hair meaning they can withstand some pretty cold temperatures. About -40 for short periods of time. Extended cold - you may run into some problems. Shelter bedding is available in many types with perhaps a good grade, clean straw being the ideal. You will want to arrange shelter bedding so that it can be changed frequently as the goats will urinate on their bedding causing it to get wet underneath and it is usually this moisture buildup that breeds harmful bacteria that can lead to health problems. What I do is arrange the shelter bedding on slatted pallets so moisture drains through underneath and does not remain on the bedding itself. It is a good idea to change the bedding frequently to minimize bacteria and parasites such as lice and worms. Personally, I gather all the soiled bedding into a large pile, let it dry and then burn it. The soiled bedding could also be used for compost as well. But in our case, it is easier to burn the goat pen areas to decrease harmful bacteria. While this is not always possible for everyones circumstance, it has been quite helpful for us. Some breeders employ "listening devices" in their goat shelters so they can monitor their goats activity at any time of the day or night. Unfortunately we haven't gotten this "hi-tech" yet, but it is a great idea that costs around $50.00 for a good intercom or "baby monitor" system. You can listen in on your goats or an expectant doe who is getting ready to kid. A goat shelter can be as basic or as elaborate as you wish to make it. Shelters that we use are of two types: calf hutches and a homemade goat shelter built from cedar shingling. The calf hutches are very nice because you can attach cattle or hog panels on the front to complete the enclosure. In essence they become small goat pens, easily movable. These hutches will hold about 10 full sized goats and come with side feeder doors, a top ratable open/closed air vent, a front feeder/waterer holder and two inside the hutch feed and water bucket holders. The price of a new hutch is approximately $350. Do yourself a favor and buy used but be sure it is in good conditioned and not cracked or broken. The other home made cedar shelter is pretty nice as well although not as movable. It is roughly 4 feet deep, 4 feet high and 6 feet wide with corrugated tin roofing and 6 inch deep walls packed with R-14 insulation. The floor is two pallets with straw strewn over. Originally built as the "yard" kidding pen, it has provided a shelter to many of our goats from time to time. There is one drawback to this particular shelter - our goats love to gnaw on the cedar boards. One other plan I have had in mind for a long time is a "range shelter" built from cinder blocks. This particular design would be a concrete floor* and the dimensions would be at least 6 feet high, 12 feet deep and 24 feet long. Running water would be piped to this particular shelter. The roof would be corrugated tin on a 7 point pitch to adequately channel rain water to the back of the shelter and not the front. Also, this design would have a door on both sides. You'll notice that I asterisk (*) concrete floor. I have always heard that concrete has a tendency to hold moisture and will drain energy out of an animal through its feet. I may opt to go with a different material over the top of the concrete floor but it will be built so as to house drains at various points in the shelter to make clean-out easy. A quick note about "wooden" shelters. Wood can be and is used quite extensively for the DIY (do it yourself) shelter maker. One word of caution here however. I would be careful on the wood type - certain woods splinter more easily than others. Certain woods also attract goats to gnaw away until the wood is gone. And painting the wood - be very careful of the type of paint you use. While most of the lead based paints are gone, there are other ingredients that can make your goats sick. Another type of range shelter most often employed not only for goats, but cattle or horses as well is an open faced, three sided shelter constructed from corrugated tin. These usually work quite well but the open front has always concerned me a little. If you live in a place where the rain comes from any angle, your goats are still going to get wet. I am thoroughly convinced that a goat shelter should be closed enough to ensure that the goats remain dry no matter how hard the downpour is. A couple of other ideas for shelters - "pet Igloos" like they make for dogs. These work great for kids and smaller goats such a Pygmy. The "portability" of a shelter is quite often a real concern (see the fencing topic). The "strangest" shelter that I've ever seen and worked quite effectively is a concrete culvert pipe - you know the big, round water pipes that are put into ditches? I actually saw a guy use a 20 foot culvert pipe for a shelter. Great idea and works well until it's time to get the goats out of the pipe when you need them. I thought about this idea and wondered if a metal culvert pipe would be better. No. Metal gets cold in the winter, hot in the summer. Concrete is a little better than this although not ideal. A culvert pipe with straw bedding will suffice. Other Shelter IdeasBearing in mind the cost of materials, etc., I was contemplating what we could do to build a barn. Here's what we did: My husband was at an auction sale where he purchased a 48' van (like the one's you see going up and down the highways). He knocked the under-carriage out from beneath it, put skids under it, and hauled it out into the goat pasture. It has a really solid, wooden plank floor inside, wooden walls, and of course is completely covered in tin all over the outside. There is a very large side door as well as the big door in the back of the van which makes for very easy cleaning. Absolutely waterproof with no maintenance required because of the tin covering, and I leave the side door open so that the herd can come and go at their leisure. We use lots of straw for bedding and have it positioned in the pasture to maximize the sunshine and yet not allow the wind to carry moisture into the barn to make it pretty much draft free. Cost: 650.00 (Canadian) and a bit of work to customize the interior into 2 pens and a milking area. I find it ideal for the herd in general but I also have 5 small pens for kidding or isolation use. Not perfect perhaps, but better than nothing, right? I started with my two little goats and an 8'X10' pre-built shed. It was made by the Amish, and delivered to my site. It worked fine...until I decided I needed more goats...then I needed more barn space, especially since I had two bred does, and two new kids. Sooooooo, I haaaaad to get another barn....back to the Amish. This time I got a 10'X12' and my husband and I divided it to serve as temporary kidding stalls when needed. Thennnnnnn, I decided to get a billy goat. Well, I couldn't have the billy live with the girls, so yes, I needed another barn. This time my husband and I built a little barn about 4'x8' with a height of about 4 feet. Everyone seems to be happy with their setups. But, if it continues like this, I'll be having too many little barns. So my plans for the future are to buy a nice, big Amish barn to put on this new pasture. So my advise is - if you're just starting out, get something bigger than you think you'll need, as goats are addicting, and you can never stop with just a couple. There was an old chicken house on our property when we bought our little farmette 3 years ago. We decided to clean up and convert this little building to become the goats' shelter. It has really worked out well. It is raised and has a wooden floor. I use straw for bedding as well. It is approximately 10'x12', easily big enough for our two pet goats. There is a little cut-out door with a walking plank to their outdoor fenced-in play area. In severe weather, I can close this door and keep them inside. There are also two windows (reinforced w/screen) which can be opened or closed according to the weather. They also have a shelf for sleeping/playing. The best part is, the goathouse is divided into two parts, so there is an additional storage area where I can keep some hay and a can of feed and my broom/bucket/rake for cleaning the pen. A full size door opens into the goats' area for easy and convenient access.

by Meredith ChilsonThe snow arrived on the first day of winter. It made me think of those old cartoons that showed time passing with an arrow pointing to the seasons—when the arrow clicked over to WINTER, the ground was covered with snow and icicles hung from eaves. That’s just about how it happened here. A few days ago, when the season was still AUTUMN, my chickens and I received a terrific pre-holiday gift: a trailer full of straw. It’s parked right next to the potting/garden/feed shed behind the coop, and those bales should help keep the girls warm and comfy through the chilly, blustery days ahead. Here’s why I like to have bales of straw on hand: · Insulation – According to those who actually use straw bales for building homes, there are some excellent insulating properties in straw: affordable and effective thermal and heat insulation and outstanding acoustic (sound) insulation. Read a bit more about straw bale home building HERE. You can even watch a video HEREabout using straw bales to build a chicken coop. I like to keep a bale of straw at the entrance of the chicken coop in the winter. The doorway there is full-sized and on windy days a cold breeze blows through the doorway and into the corners of the coop. A bale of straw on its side is just right for blocking the cold wind. It’s also quite nice for inquisitive hens to stand on. On extremely cold and blowy days, I keep the coop door closed, and the straw bale blocks any winds that might consider whistling in or under the door. Our coop is not insulated, and on the few days that the temperatures drop below zero, I pile straw along the inside walls of the coop for insulating help, too. I hesitate to use bales of straw along the outside of the coop. Not only can I find better use for the straw (old hay bales would work as well, here), but also it seems to me that it would just encourage rodents to make winter nests. The coop is quite close to the road—there’s not a lot of traffic, but in the winter the snowplows are loud enough to wake me from a sound sleep. I would think the straw might help a bit to keep the sounds of the passing plows from the coop. · Bedding/Deep Litter – There’s a wooden floor in our coop. I clean it thoroughly several times a year, but usually in mid-November, I start building a litter-insulated floor. I begin with a layer of flake shavings and then add straw. As the chickens work through the litter and add their droppings to it, I add more layers of shavings, sometimes a bag of dried leaves and additional straw. I try very hard to keep the litter from becoming wet—I watch especially around the waterers—and as long as the bedding stays dry, it just builds up. If there’s a mild day in January or February, I’ll sometimes clean under the roosts, but other than that the materials on the floor grow deeper and deeper. Harvey Ussery, in his book The Small-Scale Poultry Flock, describes deep-litter management in detail. Ussery says the deep winter “thick layer of organic duff” that results from layers of high-carbon material (like straw) scratched up by chickens depositing rich nitrogenous materials not only insulates the floor of the coop, but generates its own heat much like a well-turned compost heap. I know from personal experience that water in our coop is very rarely frozen solid; between the body heat generated by the chickens themselves and the warmth produced by the composting litter, the coop is not a terribly cold place even in deep winter. Fresh air comes in from under the eaves for ventilation, and by adding more litter before the coop becomes smelly, we have been able to keep the coop from generating unhealthy amounts of ammonia. Ussery, in the same book, does NOT recommend that straw be used on dirt coop floors because of the chance of molds, which can cause respiratory problems—however, “there is no problem using straw as the litter over a wooden floor”. And you know, I just love the way a coop smells when there’s fresh straw spread around—even if it’s covering up a foot and a half of partially composted litter. I like to have a layer of straw in the chicken run, too. For various reasons, we can’t free range our chickens, and it didn’t take long for the run to become vegetation free. A layer of straw keeps the run from becoming a mud wallow after heavy rains—and some straw strewn on light snow encourages the girls out of the coop for some exercise. · Nesting Material – Our girls like to lay their eggs in nests filled with straw. I sometimes use shavings, but the girls kick shavings out of the nests when they’re fluffing around getting comfortably ready for egg laying. Straw stays in the nests for a longer time, it seems. When I add fresh straw to a nest box, there’s usually at least one hen right at my elbow, ready to climb in, wiggle around and … well, make a nest of the straw. Often, I use a combination of nesting materials, just as I do with litter. If I add a layer of shavings to the nest boxes first, I mix in a little diametaceous earth –especially in the corners –for parasite control. Then I add the straw. · Entertainment – When I spread out a “leaf” of fresh straw, there are chickens ready to begin scratching in it, sorting out weed seeds, an errant grain, even tiny green alfalfa leaves or flowers that were cut with the grain and mixed into the bale. It’s something different for the hens to work at, and it’s entertaining for me to watch, too. Bored chickens will often “pick” at each other, which can lead to big problems in a flock. One suggestion I’ve read has the chicken keeper making a maze out of straw bales for chickens to work their way through. I don’t have enough room, or enough straw bales to try this, but just having one bale in the coop doorway for chickens to hop on, tunnel behind (yes, they’ve done this) and jump from, makes me think the straw bale maze idea would work. · Garden Blankets – Most of my vegetable gardening is done in raised beds. I don’t use pesticides or herbicides in my gardens; I compost every possible kitchen scrap that doesn’t go to the hens. When I do the final chicken coop cleaning in the fall, all the litter from the coop goes onto the harvested garden beds. The snow eventually covers the beds, and in the spring the rich garden soil is ready for planting; the winter weather has aged the materials just right. When the arrow spins around to point at SPRING—when the litter is deep in the coop and the garden beds are awakening—the straw will be gone from the trailer. The straw-based litter that’s cleaned from the coop in the spring is nearly compost already. It will be put in with the “regular” compost that’s turned a couple of times a week and eventually added to mulch, new plantings and flower beds. The straw, shavings, chicken manure, and even traces of diametaceous earth enrich the earth around the greens that we plant to feed the chickens. We’ll watch Farmer Brown as he grows the grain and harvests the straw again next AUTUMN and maybe, just maybe, I’ll receive another terrific gift to keep the coop insulated, the nests filled, the chickens happy, and the gardens fertile for yet another season.

Data confidence level: Commuter times have a huge impact on work-life balance, contributing to workers' stress levels and attrition rates across all industries from the year 2012. Companies and corporations are increasingly addressing this issue by allowing more and more workers to telecommute or work from a local or home office. These measures, particularly in Australia, which has a large urban sprawl and high petrol prices, these measures are welcome ones, and will likely help to reduce the average amount of time that employees spend commuting to and from work. This FACT indicates the average amount of time spent by a person commuting between work and home in each Australian capital city, assuming a five day work week and commuting during peak hour traffic (usually a higher tariff rate for public transport commuters). For cities that implement zone pricing structures, (that is, the cost increases the further one travels), the average between 5km and 25km journey from the CBD is used. *Data for Darwin could not be found therefore we have used Northern Territory data from 2006 from the Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research.

Christians visiting the Holy Land in the spring sometimes fail to appreciate the link between Passover and Easter: Jesus came to Jerusalem in April circa 34, making his triumphal entry on the Sunday of the last fateful week of his life, in order to offer a Passover sacrifice at Herod's magnificent newly-built Temple. He celebrated the Passover seder feast that Thursday night, an event commonly referred to as the Last Supper. Returning with his apostles to their encampment at Gethsemane on the nearby Mount of Olives, he was arrested that evening after being betrayed by Judas. On Friday, the holy day of Passover, Jesus was tried and then crucified. His corpse was hurriedly placed in a new sepulcher or family tomb belonging to Joseph of Arimathea near to the Skull Hill execution grounds (believed by some to be located adjacent to what is known as the Garden Tomb) to so as not to violate the Sabbath that began Friday shortly before sundown. Sunday morning it was discovered that the rolling stone sealing Jesus' tomb had been shifted, and the sepulcher was empty. Jesus had arisen. When it came to actually specifying the date in which Easter would be celebrated annually, the Church fathers wanted the holiday to closely follow Passover, after all, that was when Christ died. But interestingly, in determining the date of Easter, Christianity did not make Easter's date dependent on Passover and, in fact there are years when Easter falls almost a full month in advance of Passover. Why? This is because Judaism follows a lunar calendar comprising 12 lunar months of 29 to 30 days in length with the new moon marking the beginning of each month and the full moon occurring halfway through the month. Because the lunar calendar is shorter than the solar calendar, over time the Jewish calendar falls out of line with the seasons which is why an additional month is added to the Jewish calendar very few years. Western Catholics, including Roman Catholics and Protestants, celebrate Easter on the Sunday immediately following the paschal full moon that occurs on or after the spring equinox. These dates are fixed in advance according to the Ecclestiastical full moon schedule that was set in 1583 A.D. and can vary from the date of the Paschal full moon by up to two days. If the full moon falls on a Sunday, then Easter is the following Sunday. It can fall anywhere March 22 and April 25, and this year it falls on March 31. The Eastern or Orthodox Churches base their holiday calculations on the Julian calendar rather than the revised Gregorian calendar, adopted by Pope Gregory XIII in 1582. Unlike the Gregorian calendar, The Julian calendar does not take into account the extra day every fourth leap year. Consequently, both the Western and Eastern churches only occasionally celebrate Easter on the same day. This year the Orthodox church celebrates Easter a full five weeks after Roman Catholics and Protestants -- Sunday, May 5.

Aspiring journalists learn the craft of storytelling abroad The brainchild of two young Flemish journalists, the Caravan’s Journal is a two-week programme that trains future reporters to cover breaking stories wherever they may be Today, 15 young Flemish journalism students, one Dane and two Greeks are about to get a quick introduction to the economic and humanitarian crises that are affecting Greece. The first speaker gives the students a run-through of the refugee crisis, which struck the country particularly hard last year and is far from over. A refugee activist describes his experience in the camps, where some 54,000 people are living today. Laptops and notebooks fill the table, and the young audience are keen to jot down as much information as possible. When the discussion shifts to the state of the Greek media, notorious for its biased reporting and overt political agenda, you can sense their astonishment. The workshops are the brainchild of journalist Kasper Goethals and photographer Johannes De Bruycker, graduates of Artevelde University College in Ghent who felt dissatisfied with the state of journalism and decided to do things differently. And so the Caravan’s Journal was born, partly from a longing for travel, partly from a desire to exchange knowledge and experiences. The aim is to bring together passionate young storytellers with experts in the field. The project is also evolving into a collective network that carries out journalistic productions across different countries. After just a few workshops, one of the participants, Sofyan El Bouchtili, a student of digital storytelling at the (REC) Academy in Ghent, is impressed with what he’s learned. “I prepared myself and did some homework on the country, but the information we get in these courses makes me realise just how much the Belgian media omits in their reporting on what is happening here in Greece.” The location, he says, was an extra draw. “You find stories here that you would never find back home. Greece is a particularly interesting place, a country hit by two crises at once.” Stories are as old as mankind. We’re living in turbulent times and only one thing is certain – stories will keep on coming Over the course of two weeks, the participants will get to know Greece while improving their storytelling skills. “It’s a mix of passing on information on the situation in Greece and learning from professionals who have years of experience in journalism and storytelling,” says Goethals. “Apart from that, the participants have to work on their own ideas and stories.” Today, the focus is on the refugee crisis. Tomorrow, Elina Makri, the founder of Oikomedia, an international network of journalists, will talk about cross-border co-operation. Over the weekend, Flemish documentary filmmaker Johan Grimonprez will screen his latest work and hold a talk on ecology and mass media. These lectures are taking place on the island of Andros. Next week, the Caravan’s Journal moves to the Impact Hub, a creative centre for young professionals, where the participants will get to work on their own stories and learn from the people behind media sites Vice Greece and Athens Live. The decision to come to Greece was made at the beginning of this year, when the refugee crisis was already in full swing. “At the same time, the country is struggling with the economic crisis,” says Goethals. “The dual crisis confronts our participants with situations that make headlines across the world. It also forces them to think about how to report their experiences with a dose of empathy. We want them to engage in the different situations and to be closer to people.” The participants are aged between 20 and 35, and are journalism students or young professionals hoping to launch a career in the media. Goethals calls them storytellers. “It’s an all-encompassing definition,” he says. “We also have academics, photographers and illustrators here. This allows us to transcend the different disciplines in bringing the stories to the public.” The dual crisis confronts our participants with situations that make headlines across the world Last year, the Caravan’s Journal pitched tents in Myanmar. Testing a new concept in a transitioning country is arguably a bold decision. “I’ve always had a deep affection for Myanmar,” says De Bruycker. “After our first excursion there, we decided to go for it. We worked with an organisation from the Netherlands that organises similar trips and it turned out to be a fantastic and demanding experience.” The programme took place a month before the country’s first democratic elections, so the participants had to be extra careful. “But they were able to observe the transition from up close,” says Bruycker. “Many of them ended up publishing stories for Flemish and international publications, and some still work together. It was the start of a network.” For De Bruycker, the Caravan’s Journal is a culmination of his passions. Even in high school, he would organise festivals and events. “But I was looking for something more serious,” he explains. “I studied journalism, but didn’t find what I was looking for.” After an internship with the international photo agency Noor and a trip abroad, the idea took hold to combine his love for travel and storytelling with the desire to set up collaborations and educate others. Like Goethals and De Bruycker, the participants say they strongly believe in the value of journalism and storytelling. How do they feel about the future of the industry? “Content is crucial, and will remain so,” says De Bruycker. “Stories are as old as mankind. We’re living in turbulent times and only one thing is certain – stories will keep on coming. It’s up to us to go after them and tell them to others. How we will do this changes at a moment’s notice.” El Bouchtili shares this optimistic outlook, but doesn’t feel his education has prepared him well enough for the demands ahead. “All too often I have the feeling that we are only taught to function in the setting of an editorial office,” he says. “Here we get a taste of how to work on the outside. Kasper and Johannes really push for creative ways of working together, to safeguard durable and independent journalism.” Bernd Fink, another participant, expresses a similar sentiment. “Here we learn to work together and to evaluate each other,” he says. “We learn not only how to make a story, but also how to pitch it.” As a student, he adds, he found himself craving a more international perspective and independent work. “The Caravan’s Journal gives us the tools to get to know a country in depth in a very short period of time. I also like the idea of a caravan – it might stop somewhere temporarily, but it always goes back on the road. I believe the future of journalism will be less static than it is today, something that this project embraces fully.” There will be more editions like those in Greece and Myanmar, De Bruycker says. “Events like this transform individuals into a network of shared experiences. In that way, the Caravan’s Journal can grow into a platform for journalistic collaboration.” He hopes the Caravan will eventually become an international collective that travels to the most important places in the world, chasing stories and sharing them with a wider audience. “I strongly believe this is a way to keep journalism alive.”

The Agenda 2020 series asks experts to discuss what business leaders should be doing now to prepare their organizations to be healthy, efficient and growing by 2020. Read more at tgam.ca/agenda2020. As businesses look increasingly to social media to spread their message, make sales and collect customer information, they also face the challenge of creating messages for constantly changing platforms and apps. We asked Josh Muirhead, director of engage at Winnipeg-based social media management services company ICUC and former global knowledge manager at Edelman Digital in Toronto, and Sidneyeve Matrix, an associate professor of media at Queen's University in Kingston, to examine the role that social media will play in six years' time. Will social media still be relevant in six years, or is it a passing fad? Josh Muirhead: Absolutely. I think professionals and businesses are starting to view it not as a separate thing but as part of their communications. What may happen is that not only will it still be relevant, but I think we as a society will be so used to a layer of social media, in whatever way that may look like in six years, being almost an omnipresent experience. Sidneyeve Matrix: That is so not the case in my day job, in higher education. You might think it would be because of the generation that I'm teaching but when it's everywhere, it really becomes information overload and I find that my students are very savvy in using social media as a filter in such a way that they can decide what information is relevant. With the acceleration of the information that's out there and the number of platforms that are available to tap into, is there a danger of reaching a breaking point? JM: Working in digital and social media for eight to 10 hours a day, I know I make a conscientious effort that once I get home I turn off the computer, the phone, the tablet and I disconnect. From a broader perspective, you do see people on their phones all the time, constantly checking whether it's social, or e-mail, which are the big two. SM: One thing I'm also finding is gravitation away from the bigger platforms where all the social media is aggregated, like Facebook, to really brief and ephemeral updates, through Instagram or Snapchat, or Twitter, BBM, or multimedia messaging. JM: I don't see that shift but I don't necessarily disagree. I do agree that people are finding different ways to express and to communicate. SM: Personalization is key because if all of my friends are using multimedia chat, then I'm perhaps going to spend a lot less time on Facebook or Pinterest or Twitter, because no brand message can compete with how interesting my friends are when I'm 20 years old. Can we see big businesses try to further integrate themselves into more personal social media spaces in the next six years? JM: Many people see the big brands on Facebook and say, 'Why are they investing so heavily here?' If I'm a major brand and I'm on Facebook and a few of your friends like me enough to hit that "Like" button, then through methods that Facebook is very open and honest about, I can start to use that information to hopefully attract you and your friends, and friends of those friends, because ultimately we put a high value on things that are friends-and-family trusted. Most of our purchasing decisions are based on those factors. SM: It sounds like social amplification. In the future we can be less worried about platforms and more worried about creating content that people will want to share because as soon as you have it you do get that organic virality because of the trust factor on these sites. JM: Our No. 1 focus was to really push our clients to not be platform- or channel-focused, but to be platform or channel agnostic and to develop the story or narrative that allows audience, whoever that may be, to have that personal buy-in. Do I think brands are going to continue to push on those and have deeper relationships? Absolutely. At the end of the day, advertising is still the No. 1 spend for any business out there. As social media is constantly evolving, how can businesses adopt a strategy when the ground keeps shifting? SM: They can look to the younger generation and see what is happening in the education space because those are the expectations that the next generation of consumers are going to bring to the marketplace, and when we look at the K-12 classrooms, we see a real emphasis on highly personalized learning experiences, a real emphasis on mobile-optimized content, high interest in video content. JM: If you were to say, 'How can we plan six years from today?' which is a very tough question, likely you can't, to be honest. If I was forced to answer it, one thing is to really focus and understand the story or stories you're trying to tell, what are you wanting people to believe of your brand? The other thing is to really understand the target audience that you want to be engaging with. Is it the next generation coming up, because if it is, you should be looking at what they're doing, what they're reading, what they're consuming now. With teenagers and the next generation being so familiar with technology and social media, how do we expect the demographic makeup of our society in six years to affect the use of social media in business? JM: We won't look at technology like technology. Right now we see that barrier of learning, that barrier of technology. In six years, as young professionals start to come into the work force who have grown up with technology, that barrier will start to diminish. You also won't be able to take technology for granted. You're seeing this already, but people have smartphones and it has passed the 50-per-cent mark of people owning smartphones, so you can no longer say, 'Well, we'll get to that.' It's going to be, if we want to be engaging, if we want to be relevant, if we want to be converting, taking technology for granted will be a huge detriment for any business. SM: I love this vision of technology that's all-pervasive and it not only enables a kind of agile productivity from an individual standpoint but it also enables new transparencies for business. So it's not just employers who are doing social screening when they're hiring, it's also consumers that are doing showrooming when they're making purchase decisions, it's applicants that want to know the socially good initiatives that a company is involved with and that kind of information is available and it's crowd-sourced and it's on the Web and it's on smartphones. In future, will social media still be a specialist area of expertise, or will it be more integrated into everyday roles within any given company? SM: I've been seeing more and more media professionals saying that we should probably stop talking about social media as a separate entity; it's more of a mission-critical business communications tool that we need to use to meet all kinds of business objectives. It's not something special that should be silo'd in one department with particular experts, but all across the corporation in all the business units. JM: It is becoming almost a part of everyone's job, such as the guys working construction outside. They at least should know that if you are on Twitter and Facebook and you're sharing things that can impact your employment, that can maybe enhance or detract from your employment, so I do see a kind of generalization happening to social media. Can you make any projections on what we'll see in the next six years in social media? JM: One of the biggest things I see is that whatever a brand offers and whatever a brand does will have to have that level of value for us to even care about it. So whether that is telling a more compelling story, making it more customized, that transfer of value is only going up and going up at a very steady rate to a point that, in six years, if you do anything that doesn't offer value, it's going to be dead on impact. SM: Also to touch on the idea that mobile data services are going to be huge, possibly because of wearables and our fascination with portable computing, how to add value is that the wearables and apps that constantly get used, purchased, opened over and over are those that help us make sense of our own data trail, our digital breadcrumbs. JM: The way to add value is to add value to our own individual lives and for companies to be super successful in six years' time is to tap into that core of 'We're going to help you live the life you want to live.' And those companies that will do that well, and we're seeing that already, will be and will continue to be, successful. Those who struggle with that, I perceive will eventually fail.

How are we to Understand Jesus’ Response? The disciples’ request, Send her away for she keeps calling out after us need not be understood as disapproval of her request, but simply a desire for peace and quiet (cf. 19:13?). In fact, if Jesus would just grant the petition, they all can rest. Many scholars hold this content makes Jesus’ emphatic objection (v.24) more cogent. But rather than take the path of least resistance, there is a principle to be highlighted. The principle is the same as that of 10:5–6, of a mission restricted to Israel (during Jesus’ earthly ministry): “I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. The statement here is Jesus’ explanation to the disciples of his unexpectedly unwelcoming response to a woman in need; she herself need not have heard it, as it is only in v.25 that she approaches Jesus closely. In her close approach she gives Jesus homage and again refers to him as Lord. While one can assume this is only the posture/language of the petitioner, in Matthew such language always refers to worship before God. Given this, how should one take the repartee between Jesus and the woman? There are three basic suggestions: - One suggestion for understanding Jesus’ response is that he is testing her faith (Lord, Son of David) and her resolve (a key characteristic for all disciples). - Another suggestion is its polar opposite, he is making it clear to her that she and her concerns are not part of his mission – but her clever reply, acknowledging the primacy of mission to Israel, raises the possibility of mission beyond Israel for those who accept God’s sovereignty in how He chooses his own people. - Another variation depends upon the understanding that Jesus is still in Jewish territory and that the Canaanite woman has come as though fulfilling the Isaian vision of the Gentiles streaming to the Temple Mount ( Isa 2:2-4): the Gentiles are to approach God through Israel. All three responses allow for Jesus’ final words (v.28) and the healing desired. Yet we are troubled by Jesus uttering: “It is not right to take the food of the children and throw it to the dogs.” It has been suggested that since the Greek term kynaria, a diminutive, i.e., puppy, is an affectionate reference to dogs as pets, that Jesus is not being harsh. While that appeals to our modern sentimentality and manners, it has trouble because of the lack of any such idea in Judaism, or of a known diminutive form to express it in Aramaic. The more likely scenario is that Jesus is expressing the contemptuous Jewish attitude to Gentiles in order to explain why her request does not fit into his mission to Israel. But written words do not convey a twinkle in the eye, the tone of delivery, or other such nuance. Perhaps Jesus verbally conveys the words she would expect, but everything else hints at an invitation to “make her case.” And she makes it in a way that conveys her faith. No-one else receives from Jesus the accolade “…great is your faith!” (though the centurion seems equivalent, cf. 8:10). Was it merely her persistence in expecting a response despite apparent refusal? Or is there also the idea of her spiritual perception in recognizing both the primary scope of Jesus’ mission to Israel and also the fact that was not to be its ultimate limit? The Canaanite woman, like the centurion before her, foreshadows the time when the true Israel will transcend the boundaries of culture and nationality. The careful reader of Matthew should be mindful that there have been persistent hints. From the beginning of the Gospel, Matthew begins to make it clear that the community of the Messiah is formed from unexpected sources. The mention of Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, and Bathsheba (1:3, 5, 6), all evidently Gentiles with overtones of scandal in their backgrounds, prepares the reader for Jesus’ association with the sinners of his own day. The curious arrival of the mysterious wise men (Magi) from the east who wish to worship Jesus (2:1–2) foreshadows the power of the message of the Kingdom to summon followers in surprising ways. Jesus’ amazement at the faith of the Roman officer (8:10–12) and his acknowledgement of the faith of the Canaanite woman (15:28) encourage the readers of this Gospel to believe that the message of the Kingdom is able to engender faith from unlikely sources in their own day. The Roman soldier’s amazed confirmation of Jesus’ true identity at the crucifixion (27:54) has a similar effect. All of these episodes from the narrative collectively encouraged Matthew’s original Jewish readers to expand their vision of the people of God. It was not that they should abandon their fellow Jews, but they were to take the message of the Kingdom to “all the nations” (28:19). - Daniel J. Harrington, The Gospel of Matthew, vol. 1 of Sacra Pagina, ed. Daniel J. Harrington (Collegeville, MN: Liturgical Press, 1991) 234-38 - Daniel J. Harrington, “Matthew” in The Collegeville Bible Commentary, eds. Diane Bergant and Robert J. Karris (Collegeville, Minn.: Liturgical Press, 1989) 884 - Craig S. Keener, The Gospel of Matthew: A Socio-Rhetorical Commentary (Grand Rapids, MI: William B. Eerdman’s Publishing, 2009) 414-18 - John P. Meier, Matthew, New Testament Message 3 (Collegeville, MN: Liturgical Press, 1990) 170-73 - Turner and D.L. Bock, Matthew and Mark in the Cornerstone Biblical Commentary, vol. 11 (Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, 2005) 211-13 - David Noel Freedman, The Anchor Yale Bible Dictionary (New York: Doubleday, 1996) - Gerhard Kittel, Gerhard Friedrich and Geoffrey William Bromiley, Theological Dictionary of the New Testament (Grand Rapids, MI: W.B. Eerdmans, 1995) - Horst Robert Balz and Gerhard Schneider, Exegetical Dictionary of the New Testament (Grand Rapids, Mich.: Eerdmans, 1990)

In this important study, which should be of interest to both scholars and policymakers, Paul Miller examines the practice of armed state building by both the United States and the United Nations. While acknowledging that there are some characteristics of armed state building by liberal powers that are similar to the theory and practice of traditional imperialism, Miller argues that there are important differences between the two concepts. In his definition, “Armed international liberal state building is the attempt by liberal states to use military, political, and economic power to compel weak, failed, or collapsed states to govern more effectively and accountably, as understood by Westphalian and liberal norms”(7). In 2015 the United States faces a number of opportunities to intervene with military force in countries of secondary or even less strategic importance to U.S. policy makers. President Barack Obama’s completion of the withdrawal of American ground combat troops from Iraq, and plans to draw down U.S. troops from Afghanistan, have not reduced either the escalation of recent conflicts such as in Libya and Yemen, or the continuation of destructive ethnic and religious strife with international participation in Syria. As if that were not a sufficient number of states with contested conflict taking place, the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) expanded from gradual growth after the U.S. invasion of Iraq in 2013, migrated into the Syrian Civil War, and in February 2014 charged into western Iraq to seize Mosul and other Sunni dominated areas. Boko Haram in Nigeria also escalated its attacks in northeastern Nigeria and engaged in the kidnapping of school girls, burning of villages, murder of residents, and attacks on Nigeria’s neighbors such as Chad. The list does not even include Russian President Vladimir Putin’s seizure of Crimea from the Ukraine in February 2014 and Putin’s continued support of Russian separatists in eastern Ukraine with weapons, so-called ‘Russian volunteers,’ and funds. After thirteen years of war, the loss of many thousand of lives, and the expenditure of trillions of dollars, what has the United States learned? The answer depends on not only who is asking but when. The story of the Iraq war would have different endings, and morals, if told in 2003, 2006, 2011, or 2014, and it will continue to evolve. As for Afghanistan, the narrative there has also shifted over time, and the ending also remains in doubt. Neither disaster has been unmitigated. But few would argue that Washington’s approach to either has been a success worth emulating. So the most important question today is what can be learned from the failures. Understanding the nature of insurgencies has long been an important objective for political scientists, historians, and policymakers. In Networks of Rebellion, Paul Staniland argues that scholars have paid insufficient attention to the different organizational structures of insurgent groups. In his view, understanding organizational structure is crucial because “states and their foes spend far more time and resources on organization building and institutional survival than on formulating intricate strategies of violence…Like logistics, organization consumes the attention of professional war-fighters” (220). What explains the different organizational structures of insurgent organizations? Staniland argues that a crucial determinant of the structure of insurgent groups during wartime is the nature of prewar political life. While organizational structures can and do change during wartime, he argues that the prewar ties between elites and local communities “determine the strength of central and local organizational control when rebel leaders mobilize that based for rebellion” (9). The dangers of writing about terrorism and terrorist groups, most especially al-Qa’ida, are twofold. The first is that the field is so inundated with punditry and scholarship on the subject that new entrants easily can be lost in the noise; the second is that in order to avoid being lost in the noise the temptation is strong to exaggerate claims and to assert over-strenuously the importance of one’s conclusions. Since the start of the twenty-first century, military contractors such as Blackwater (now named Academi), Kellogg, Brown & Root, and SNC Lavalin have become household names in many countries. The reasons for their prominence vary from case to case. One is notoriety. Particular firms hold contracts valued in the millions if not billions of dollars, and the conduct of some firms has not been beyond reproach in terms of military effectiveness or their observance of human rights. A second reason is reliance. Contractors are needed to keep state military personnel fed and supplied, to maintain their machines, and in some cases even to protect them. Developed world states especially require them for warring, training, and simply operating given the limited numbers of available national military personnel, the increasing sophistication of military technologies, and the political ramifications of applying state forces overseas. In many states, contractors have therefore become part of the total national force. Yet another reason pertains to dedication and sacrifice. Many firms suffffered significant levels of casualties during the long-term interventions in Iraq and Afghanistan. Thousands of contracted personnel have provided continuity over the long haul in often austere and intemperate conditions. All of this points to the considerable depth and scope of contractor involvement, which is arguably unprecedented in recent decades if not centuries. It also stands at odds with traditional conceptions of expensive state security sectors and their capabilities and responsibilities to manage and apply violence. The Good War: Why We Couldn’t Win the War or the Peace in Afghanistan is aptly named and sure to find its lasting place as the first full narrative of the U.S.-led intervention from 2001 through 2014. The timeframe is something of a moving target, depending on where you begin and end, and the theme is richly explored. This review will refer to several other of the more revealing books that fall into what could now be properly labeled a genre of Afghan War literature. It should not be surprising that the long awaited release in December 2014 of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence (SSCI) Report on the CIA’s Detention and Interrogation did not bring a conclusive end to the debate over the use of torture or enhanced interrogation techniques by the United States. To be sure, John Brennan, the Director of the CIA, acknowledged that the report correctly identified numerous and significant problems with the CIA’s handling of detainees and interrogations in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks. Brennan was also emphatic in stating his own belief that “enhanced interrogation techniques are not an appropriate method to obtain intelligence and that their use impairs our ability to continue to play a leadership role in the world.” But Brennan also restated the CIA’s long-held objection to the SSCI report’s “unqualified assertions that the overall detention and interrogation program did not produce unique intelligence that led terrorist plots to be disrupted, terrorists to be captured, or lives to be saved.” Recently, there has been a spate of books dealing with the issue of strategy and its utility. Lawrence Freedman, Colin Gray, Hew Strachan, and Hal Brands have all weighed in with recent works on the tensions between what strategic theory discusses and the practical difficulties in achieving successful results through its use. The growing attention to the ‘praxis’ of strategy points to the mounting sense of failure implicit in the return of Western military forces to Iraq (including some from states originally opposed to operations there in 2003). Since 2001, the illusive and shadowy warriors of Special Operations Forces (SOF) have been increasingly in the news and popular media. These military forces are frequently touted as key enablers to address the complex problems presented by the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) in Iraq and Syria. Thus, Grant Martin, himself a Special Operations veteran now working at the U.S. Army’s Special Warfare school delivers a timely and informative article on the value that such capabilities bring to states engaged in conflict. In a timely article, John Mitton seeks to show how the enduring rivalry between India and Pakistan has hampered NATO’s efforts in Afghanistan and contributed to its failure. The author is careful in noting that while the rivalry is not the only reason for failure, it certainly is a factor. The author also cites many noted regional specialists who also have argued that the Indo-Pakistani rivalry has played a role in determining the outcome of the current war in Afghanistan. In that sense, the author is correct in considering such regional factors to explain the failures in Afghanistan. The article also raises many more interesting questions worth exploring. In this review, I summarize the argument and findings, point out its strengths and weaknesses, and highlight the possible directions future research in this area could take, given the article’s conclusions.

Form and Content In the fourteen chapters of My St. Petersburg: A Reminiscence of Childhood, the last being a brief epilogue, E. M. Almedingen discusses the founding and early history of St. Petersburg: the beautiful parks, bridges, and buildings; the slums; the lavish stores and colorful markets; the seasons and harsh weather; and some of the people, both important and simple, of the cosmopolitan capital. Although the incidents are not arranged in chronological order, the book starts with historical background and ends with the first riots of the 1917 Russian Revolution. Throughout the book, the city is seen through the eyes of the author as a child, either directly from her observation or in her memories of what she has been told or has read. Almedingen was in a peculiarly fortunate situation to observe the great variety of the city. The youngest in a large, upper-class family, she was taken by her mother when her parents separated and lived virtually as an only child. Because her father, whom she never knew, provided no financial support, her mother gave English lessons all day, and they lived in comparative poverty. On both sides of the family, however, she had wealthy and important relatives who occasionally remembered them and invited her to parties, where she met the poet Alexander Blok, Count Leo Tolstoy (the novelist’s son), Madame Dostoevski, and other literary and artistic figures. Occasionally, cousins or aunts took her shopping at grand stores, to...

Developed by Duane Deardorff and Robert Beichner |Purpose||To discuss measurement uncertainty concepts with students, and why one answer might be better than the others.| |Focus||Lab skills (measurement, uncertainty)| Sample questions from the MUQ: This is the lowest level of research validation, corresponding to at least one of the validation categories below. Research Validation Summary Based on Research Into: - Student thinking - Student interviews - Expert review - Appropriate statistical analysis - At multiple institutions - By multiple research groups - Peer-reviewed publication

Morose definition, gloomily or sullenly ill-humored, as a person or mood. See more. Define morose: having a sullen and gloomy disposition; marked by or expressive of gloom — morose in a sentence.

In the basement garage of a high-end apartment building in the middle of New York City, a few electricians are quietly installing a century-old product that is now poised to revolutionize an industry — and maybe lead the United States into a carbon-neutral future. Taking up about two parking spaces is a wall of boxes. They are simple lead-acid batteries, similar to what keeps the lights on in your car. But these batteries are linked together, connected to the building’s electricity system, and monitored in real time by a Washington-state based company, Demand Energy. Demand’s installation at the Paramount Building in midtown Manhattan is going to lower the building electricity bills and reduce its carbon footprint, even while it doesn’t reduce a single watt of use. Every night, the batteries charge up. Every day, they run down, providing a small portion of the building’s energy and reducing the amount of power it takes off the grid. This cycle of charging during low-use times and discharging during high use times helps level out the Paramount’s electricity use. “The electricity grid as it’s designed today is a perfect just-in-time energy system,” Doug Staker, president of Demand Energy, told ThinkProgress. This means that for every computer turned on in the morning, the grid has to supply that amount of power. But it also creates opportunities. “At night, when all the demand goes away, there is a potential to have oversupply,” Staker said. That oversupply goes into batteries. It all comes back to flattening the demand curve — driving demand down during the day and up at night. Apartment buildings like Paramount are perfect examples of demand. During the day, lights, elevators, and air conditioning are running. And for the past few years, on hot summer days, the local utility, ConEd, has asked building managers to dim the lobby lights, shut down some elevators, and kill air-conditioning in non-critical areas. “Peak usage in the city is a critical issue,” Joshua London, vice president of Paramount’s management company, Glenwood Management, told ThinkProgress. “We would get a notification that it is a critical time and we would have to draw down certain systems,” London said. “That, in our opinion, really kind of got maxed out, because the calls to do so were so frequent, and of longer duration.” Last summer, some 800 city buildings participated in the so-called demand response program, which offers payments for participating in the program and bonuses for energy savings on those days. But those payments are small compared to what London’s building will save by installing batteries. Follow the money A quick word on electricity bills: American home bills usually have a flat rate for the amount of electricity the resident uses. No matter when it’s used, or how quickly power is drawn, the rate is the same amount per kilowatt hour. Flat rates are like an odometer saying how many miles were drive — or, in this case, how many kilowatt hours (kWh) have been used. But for commercial and industrial properties, including residential apartment buildings, the electricity bill also has a demand charge. The demand charge acts like a speedometer: Not only is a business charged for the total amount of electricity it uses, it is also charged for how quickly power is taken. A business will receive a higher bill for using 10 kWh in an hour than for using the same 10 kWh over, say 10 hours. In New York, demand charges make up, on average, half of commercial and industrial customers’ bills. Electricity rates are designed like this because utilities don’t like peaks in demand. Peaking plants are expensive, wasteful, and dirty. But from the utility’s perspective, putting a lot of electricity on the grid is also bad news. The higher the peak demand, the more infrastructure — wires, generators — has to be built. And transmission congestion means a less efficient system. (Line loss, a phenomenon in which not all the electricity gets from point A to point B, is greater when the transmission system is overloaded). Not to mention the risks of brownouts and blackouts that increase with too much strain on the grid. The regulator that oversees ConEd, New York State’s Department of Public Service, has undertaken a massive program to level out electricity use. ConEd, specifically, has been asked to reduce its peak demands by 100 megawatts (MW), according to engineer Robin Gray. One of the tools for reducing demand — or “peak shaving” — is battery storage. “It’s good for our system to remove demand off the system.” Gray told ThinkProgress. “What they are doing on a building level, we are doing on a system level.” A storage boom This summer, ConEd even expanded its incentive program for storage, and it is also adding its own storage. At a substation in Brooklyn, ConEd is installing a 1 megawatt (MW) battery that will discharge over the 12-hour peak in the neighborhood. For the utility, it’s cheaper and easier to put in a battery than to build out more infrastructure, especially in the crowded city. “Traditionally, we would build new substations… which are very expensive. Space is difficult,” Gray said. “This opens many doors to us in terms of how we control our systems.” In fact, ConEd is looking into putting battery storage, paired with solar panels, at points along the electricity lines, similar to a New Jersey project by utility PJ&E. The potential uses of batteries, it seems, are limitless. This is good not only for utilities and management companies. Batteries can play a significant role in lowering our collective carbon emissions. These days, nearly a third of all U.S. carbon emissions come from the electricity sector. As the United States phases out coal plants — which are responsible for 70 percent of that carbon — and turn to renewable sources, it will be critical to incorporate battery storage. In fact, on a larger scale, stored hydropower has already been providing this service. “There will always be some ups and downs in the grid,” Matt Roberts, director of the Energy Storage Association, told ThinkProgress. “System-wide efficiency is really the moniker that energy storage will use moving forward.” He said the Department of Energy has identified 15 different services that energy storage provides. (Energy storage includes flywheels and pumped hydro. Batteries are a more modern utilization) “Energy storage can respond in a sub-milisecond,” Roberts said. “It’s good for the grid. It’s efficient, because you don’t overproduce. You give it the exact amount of energy you need.” Those benefits are why some regulators are requiring their utilities to install storage. In 2013, the California Public Utilities Commission (PUC) introduced an energy storage target of 1,325 megawatts by 2020. Unsurprisingly, California’s three utilities — PG&E, Southern California Edison, and San Diego Gas & Electric — have more installed storage capacity than any other state. Overall, the industry is on the upswing. Electric car company Tesla might have garnered the most headlines for batteries — building a “gigafactory” in Arizona and launching a new residential battery product — but there are literally dozens of companies jumping into the game. According to data from GTM Research and the U.S. Energy Storage Association, 5.8 MW of energy storage were installed in the United States in the first three months of this year, up 16 percent from the same time last year. Even more impressively, behind-the-meter energy storage — that is, batteries on homes and businesses — had its largest first quarter in history, up 132 percent from the year before. The changing grid For a long time, the only options for peak shaving have been in the field of efficiency. In fact, energy efficiency programs have been responsible for huge declines in carbon emissions in the United States, as our air-conditioners, driers, and even light bulbs suck up less power. But it is still critical to change the generation mix. Solar has been a success story in recent years, reducing emissions by as much as 23.5 million metric tons annually — the equivalent of shuttering six coal-fired plants, according to industry data. Solar and storage are symbiotic. Solar panels start producing when the sun rises and continue through the hot, high-demand part of the day. That is perfect for shaving the top off the demand curve. But then people go home and turn on televisions, air conditioners, and lights. The actual electricity demand usually peaks between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. During that time, the sun sets, cutting off supply to solar panels. The electricity load chart below is known as the Duck Graph. (The duck’s belly is created by the dip in the load during the day, and the steep line that makes the neck represents the need to quickly ramp up generation as load increases at the same time the sun sets in the evening). Based on California’s demand, the chart predicts a time when California’s solar use will be so high it will destabilize the grid. Even while lowering overall demand (which, under the one-to-one model, is critical for lowering infrastructure needs), the rapid drop in electricity production creates a spike in demand from other sources. CREDIT: Courtesy CalISO Really, what we’re looking for is a shallow, flattish curve of demand. A turtle curve. Now look at this chart from Demand Energy’s monitoring system. Demand is flattened on both sides — shaving the peaks and increasing demand during low times. In other words, the technology reacts in real time, evening out the building’s electricity use. Not only does this save the building money, it’s part of a larger effort to make the city’s grid stable. “[Batteries are] one way the utility might possibly move forward and not face the ultimate extinction of their infrastructure due to age and overuse,” London said bluntly. “This operation of the storage system will help us stabilize the neighborhood.” First energy storage stabilizes the Upper East Side. Next up, the world?

Do NOT share with anybody. This is just so you an see all the work and measurements. The announcement has typos and is missing stuff. Tomorrow I will have the correct info. I will also send you a spreadsheet with measurements. The Jewish Art Salon has been selected to exhibit at the 3rd Jerusalem Biennale for Contemporary Jewish Art, which will showcase the work of nearly 200 professional artists in dozens of exhibitions and installations. The Jerusalem Biennale, which explores the intersection between contemporary art and the Jewish world of content, took the concept of Watershed as its theme. The Jewish Art Salon’s entry “Jerusalem Between Heaven and Earth” was curated by Ori Z. Soltes, and will be on view from October 1 – November 15, 2017. Opening reception October 2, 2017 at 5 pm. 1 Mish’ol ha-Gvura Street, Jerusalem, Israel 91314 Hours: Oct. 2 – Nov. 15, Sunday – Thursday 09:00-17:00. The exhibition features work by Salon members from the USA, Europe and Israel, and is co-sponsored by the Derfner Museum and Georgetown University. Jerusalem Biennale Founder Rami Ozeri: “The Jerusalem Biennale provides a stage for professional artists – from secular to ultra-Orthodox – who refer in their artwork to Jewish thought, spirit, tradition or experience. The Biennale will throw the spotlight onto the concept of watershed, examining it from a literal, metaphorical and even historical perspective. The theme finds its expression in issues as varied as Jewish identity, immigration and refugees, alongside watershed moments in history. Jewish Art Salon Guest Curator Ori Z. Soltes: “A watershed yields a branching, be it of physical terrain, historical events or spiritual and aesthetic concepts. Such an idea is particularly powerful in conjunction with the city of Jerusalem. The exhibit arc encompasses multiple divergences that begin with and come back to the geological topography of Jerusalem. That topography—an outcropping of land from the Judaean plain, surrounded by valleys on three sides, offers a symbolic statement of how the spiritual foundations of Jerusalem branch in three Abrahamic directions, how multiple spiritual ramifications, legalistic and mystical, have flowed in diverse streams, and yields watersheds of aesthetic and political questions, both historical and contemporary.” By Ori Z. Soltes, guest curator The idea of a watershed suggests a branching, be it of physical terrain, historical events or spiritual and aesthetic concepts. This notion is particularly powerful in conjunction with Jerusalem. The exhibit arc encompasses multiple divergences that begin with and come back to the geological topography of the Sacred City. That topography—an outcropping of land from the Judaean plain, surrounded by valleys on three sides, offers a symbolic statement of how the spiritual foundations of Jerusalem branch in three Abrahamic directions, and how multiple spiritual ramifications have flowed in diverse aesthetic and political streams. From beneath the surface, they periodically surge up into our consciousness. Tobi Kahn’s uniquely sculptural paintings and Leah Caroline and Jeremy S-Horseman’s water-based sound-centered installation offer, as a beginning point, abstract suggestions of the geological watershed that helps define Jerusalem. The Sacred City’s topography made it both difficult for King David to conquer and, when he did so by way of its singular underground water source, he made it his political and spiritual capital. Jerusalem became the basis for much of Israelite-Judaean history and for Jewish, Christian and Muslim fantasy, and remains a centerpiece of contention in the politicized Israeli-Palestinian world of today. The idea of the city pre-dates the city’s role in that history. The real—spiritual—beginning of the journey toward David’s unification and Jerusalem as a capital is found in watershed moments in Exodus when a loose confederation of tribes embraced a stringent divinely-mandated covenant. Joel Silverstein’s sweeping epic painting suggests the pre-moment that pushes the Israelites toward Sinai and thence toward Jerusalem, the city in which the Shekhinah has for so long been felt by many to reside—and which has, in modernity, sometimes become a comic-book version of itself. Richard McBee’s dramatic painting submerges the plague-induced moments that gradually separated the Israelites from Egypt within a framework—conceived as two doors—that suggest the very portals into the Holy of Holies of the Temple in a watershed construction that will eventuate half a millennium after the plagues. For the Israelite evolution yields to David’s son, Solomon, the structure that he built and the wisdom with which he became associated—so that the Book of Kohelet, as explored by Ellen Holtzblatt’s paintings, is traditionally ascribed to him. Gabriella Boros considers watershed warnings to the Israelite-Judaeans articulated by Isaiah. Jerusalem is both particular and universal—and the message of the biblical book of Jonah, a dramatically different focus of Yona Verwer and Katarzyna Kozera, Jan Lauren Greenfield and Alan Hobscheid, emphasizes the watershed outreach of prophecy beyond the city of prophets as far as Nineveh—capital of the Assyrian enemies of Israel. The outcome of this series of divergences for the multi-valent city’s place in and between worlds is four-fold. One, within the Jewish tradition, the biblical has given way to the rabbinic and its penchant for midrash—encountered through Rachel Kanter’s fiber, “Wake Up,” and Beth Krensky’s video, Tashlich. Ben Shachter’s “Aquavit: Praying for Rain” furthers the rabbinic by re-visioning the concept of the mikveh. The rabbinic has in turn ramified toward the mystical, as in Susan Schwalb’s small, tight abstract visualization of the concept, Lamed-Vav, and Alex Shalom Kohav’s installation, “A/Dam,” that interrogates the relationship between humans and the divine, of which Jerusalem has been an enduring symbol. In Carol Buchman’s haunting work the mystical and geological become panentheistic: the Name of God suffuses nature at its most extreme; the artist functions as priestly intermediator. Two: away from Jerusalem, Jewish history and thought have constantly sought a spiritual and, ultimately, physical return to Jerusalem—with particular vehemence at the harshest watershed moments in the diaspora experience. Mark Podwal conceptualizes the Expulsion of 1492 in his unique style; Billha Zussman imagines how that external watershed has internal consequences in her “Espinoza: Marrano of Reason;” Archie Rand and Maarten van der Heijden offer cutting edge—watershed—visual references to the Shoah. Three: Jerusalem reaches and branches into Islam and Christianity—converging with and diverging from the city’s Jewish emphases. Siona Benjamin’s painting considers how PaRDeS (as a Jewish, and particularly a Jewish mystical concept) intersects the Islamic concept of Jannat. Miriam Stern re-visions the lushly colored Christian vision explored in the Crusader Bible. Four: the watershed of Jerusalem turns inward: Sarah Lightman and Ma’ayan both turn the topography of Jerusalem toward profound life watersheds regarding people and the very making of art. The watershed of return to Jerusalem and the questions of Jewish-Christian-Muslim coexistence within Jewishly-governed modern Israel begin to bring this exhibition arc back toward its earthbound beginnings. The ramifications are multiple. Aviva Shemer’s installation of suspended Hebrew, Arabic and Aramaic letters is inspired by Martin Buber’s discussion of Jerusalem as a center of the Am Olam a century ago; Jane Logemann’s “Co-Existence”—frenetically repeated (like a cross between Philip Glass music and Abulafian mysticism) in Hebrew and Arabic—turns words into abstract images. Leah Raab’s depiction of the “Valley of Tears” alludes to a specific time and place within the Yom Kippur War. Dorit Jordan Dotan’s “A Drop in the Bucket” focuses on the crisis of Israeli-Palestinian water-sharing. Bruria Finkel’s “Salt Mound” installation turns the issue of potable and salt water convergences back toward the geology of Jerusalem. Yehudis Barmatz-Harris’ video turns water to fire in pushing history backwards: from the crucible of Jerusalem’s return to Jewish hands through the Shoah and the connotations of fire in Hassidic mystical thought to the book-burnings of diaspora experience and the burning of the Second and First Temples to the purification process of the Israelites in the wilderness by means of the burning of the Red Heifer. Pamela Fingerhut’s digital image of Miriam and Baby Moses returns us to the biblical moment of Moses’ birth through a modern Middle Eastern lens. Elaine Langerman’s small, colorful painting, interwoven with text, entitled “Poem #1: Watershed” concludes the return to the topographic ground of the exhibition inquiry. Text as the basis for Jewish ethos ramifies to the visual imagery that define Jewish art—and raises the questions: what is Jewish art? And what is Judaism within itself and within the world? Both “Jewish art” and Judaism are suffused by questions—like the city of Jerusalem itself.

“Saint Michael, Defend us in battle.” I do not write that in jest, but it’s Memorial Day weekend in the U.S., and I need all the help I can get. For readers unfamiliar with why this is such a dreaded event in prison, I wrote about the scourge of holiday weekends in “These Stone Walls’ Second Annual Stuck Inside Literary Award.” A three-day holiday weekend in prison means that all activities, classes, work, and access to the outside are suspended, and prisoners are, for the most part, locked up. I try to plan ahead with lots to read and write, but I live in a world of men with varying degrees of chronic ADHD. Within a day or so of round-the-clock confinement, madness sets in. The 60 denizens of this cell block range in age from 18 to 82, with the vast majority in their 20s and 30s. Younger prisoners tend to have little in the way of coping skills, so long weekends are usually stressful and tense. Adding to the sense of oppression, the 5:00 PM “mail call” – the high point of every day in prison – is eliminated on holiday weekends since there’s no mail service. I get a lot of snail mail from TSW readers. I welcome it – as any prisoner would – but I also have some dismay at my inability to answer all of it. I wrote about this in a recent post, “When the Caged Bird Just Can’t Sing: The Limits of Prison Writing.” Answering mail from abroad is especially difficult because the prison commissary sells only one denomination for postage stamps. That means three stamps are required for a letter outside the U.S. That really cuts into my weekly postage purchase allotment. Prisoners can earn only one to two dollars per day in prison jobs, so for many prisoners, the cost of a letter abroad can exceed a full day’s pay and postage stamps cannot be sent to prisoners from outside. Ellen, a TSW reader in Fort Worth, Texas, asked in a recent letter if I would write something about my daily life in prison. She has been looking through past posts trying to learn more of what life in here is like, but the titles themselves may not make that easy. So I’ll help a little with a guided tour of a few posts about the forces that impact and drive prison life from day to day. DOWNTON ABBEY’S PRISON DRAMA If you’re a fan of Downton Abbey, then you might want to have a look at my post, “Downton Abbey’s Prison Drama: A TSW Masterpiece Classic.” When I wrote it, I was not aware that Australia was one season behind the U.S. in receiving Downton Abbey, so that post was an unintended plot spoiler. I must point out, however, that the same Australians who chastised me for giving away the fate of Sibyl Crawley in Season Two, prodded me for an advance hint about the fate of Matthew Crawley in Season Three. So much for resilience Down Under! Anyway, that post was really about comparing day-to-day life in Mr. Bates’ prison with my own. For another glimpse of prison life, you might also want to read (or re-read) “In Sin and Error Pining: Christmas in an Unholy Land.” It was about one young father in prison, and his meltdown at my cell door at Christmas. Many people perceive prisoners as wasted lives living entirely outside the bounds of decency and honor and family that are the pillars of our culture. That is indeed true of some, but not all or even most. Prisons everywhere are built and operated to contain their amoral and sociopathic, but relatively small, minority. Two weeks ago, TSW editors were asked by board members of a group called “Citizens for Criminal Justice Reform” for permission to re-print a few of TSW’s posts about prison life. They were especially interested in “Why You Must Never Give Up Hope for Another Human Being” which was about this year’s graduating class in the prison high school program. They wanted to use it, and other similar posts, for a segment on their site subtitled, “Notes from the Land of Oz” about prisoner experiences. There are a few other “prison posts” on TSW that I can recommend to those who want an honest glimpse of prison life. For a humorous side, see “Looking for Lunch in All the Wrong Places,” about prisoner recipes for cell-created cuisine. I wouldn’t try some of them at home, however. For the darker side of prisons and prisoners, I suggest, “In the Year of the Priest, the Tale of a Prisoner” about my friend, Skooter. For those who remember Skooter, I heard from him this week. He is out of prison, working full time, living in a rooming house, and doing well despite his past challenges and obstacles. Skooter is another example of why we must never give up hope. But if you want to be uplifted by the immeasurable power of grace even in the darkest of places, then I suggest leaving These Stone Walls for a visit to Holy Soul’s Hermitage and Pornchai Moontri’s masterpiece post, “Divine Mercy and the Doors of My Prisons.” It’s a journey “to the lowest possible place my soul could go,” and then on to a life of Divine Mercy, a life in Christ. By the way, that story made its way around the Globe, and TSW editors were contacted last week by a group of Catholics in Bangkok, Thailand who want to assist and welcome Pornchai upon his eventual return. For that reason alone, Divine Mercy has revealed its presence behind These Stone Walls. BUTTERFLIES ARE FREE, BUT THEY STILL CAN’T WRITE! My oId friend, David, was for two decades chair of the English department at a prestigious and venerable New England prep school. I mentioned him once in a post entitled, “A Prisoner, A Professor, A Prelate, Two Priests and a Poet!” – David being the “Professor” in that title. I wrote it in May, 2010, though it’s hard to believe it’s now three years old. I just re-read it, and it begins with a very funny story about homonyms, and ends with a tale about a robin outside my prison cell window. That robin returned a few weeks ago. It’s a post worth revisiting as May gives way to June this week, and you might find therein the roots of a few recent posts on These Stone Walls. David and I have had many long conversations about literature over the years, but he is retired now and spends his days drawing. He’s a very accomplished artist, able to do spectacular things with a mere ball point pen. I received a letter from David this week, written inside one of his incredibly beautiful hand drawn cards. This one depicts a butterfly and I’m sending it along to see if it can be scanned for publication in this post. Of course, all of this is just an excuse for me to call your attention to that very last line which, coming from a renowned professor of prose, is high praise indeed. And as though right on cue as I write this, a butterfly – a free one – just visited my cell window. I wrote about that view once in “The Birds and the Bees Behind These Stone Walls,” and I’ll apologize in advance to those drawn in by the title, expecting something a bit less platonic. Whenever I take on a literary topic on These Stone Walls, I’m aware of David lurking out there somewhere, red pen in hand. I just sent him a snail mail letter to ask what he thought of my interpretation of the great Robert Frost poem, “Stopping By Woods on a Snowy Evening” in “Mother’s Day Promises to Keep, and Miles to Go Before I Sleep.” I’m on David’s turf here, and it’s intimidating! AND THE LAST WORD GOES TO . . . Ellen’s letter from Fort Worth also commented on some more recent posts about affairs in Rome. Between February 27 and April 10, I wrote six posts about developments in the Holy See and the historic transition from Popes Benedict to Francis. The last of that series, “Strike the Shepherd! Behind the Campaign to Smear the Pope,” is one I recommend reading again and sharing. Ellen and many other readers have commended me for these posts, and for some “clear and concise support of the Holy Father.” That a priest - even one in prison – would be commended for such a thing is entirely foreign to me, but I’ll have more to say of it next week, God willing. June 5, TSW’s next post date, is my thirty-first anniversary of priesthood ordination, more than half those years spent in prison. And when I say “spent,” I really mean just that. More on that story next week. Meanwhile, I had one other strong literary reference in a controversial post that would likely make my friend, David, grimace. I think British novelist, George Orwell would have approved of “Electile Dysfunction: Accommodations and the Advent of 1984.” I recommend it again in light of recent news events, though I know I risk a nasty I.R.S. audit by doing so. Prison places me in a tax bracket more akin to one of Dickens’ plots than one of Orwell’s, however. The I.R.S. is the very least of my worries. I might be a prisoner, but as a writer, I’m as free as a butterfly.

The Village of Sant'Antonio d'Ascula The village of Sant'Antonio d'Ascula is 9,08 kilometers far from the same town of Monopoli to whom it belongs. To the municipality of Monopoli also belong the localities of Antonelli (8,86 km), Capitolo (8,27 km), Case sparse (-- km), Cozzana (8,26 km), Cristo della Cozzana (10,05 km), Gorgofreddo (8,14 km), Impalata (9,39 km), L'Assunta (8,50 km), Lamalunga (11,32 km), Lamascrasciola (7,80 km), Losciale Capitolo (8,87 km), Losciale Garrappa (10,56 km), Macchia al Monte (8,36 km), Macchia di Monte (8,37 km), Padre Sergio (8,54 km), Petrarolo (7,43 km), Piangevino (10,74 km), Romanazzi (10,15 km), San Bartolomeo (10,69 km), San Bartolomeo e Sant'Oceano (7,97 km), San Vincenzo (6,49 km), Sant'Oronzo (9,91 km), Santa Lucia (12,35 km), Sicarico (9,56 km), Tagliamento (8,22 km), Virbo (10,54 km), Zingarello (13,14 km). The number in parentheses following each village name indicate the distance between the same village and the municipality of Monopoli. The locality of Sant'Antonio d'Ascula rises 70 meters above sea level. Data about population living in Sant'Antonio d'AsculaIn the village of Sant'Antonio d'Ascula live seven hundred and sixty-eight people: three hundred and seventy-seven are males and three hundred and ninety-one are females. There are three hundred singles (one hundred and fifty-eight males and one hundred and fourty-two females). There are four hundred and eight people married, and nine people legally separed. There are also four divorced people and fourty-seven widows and widowers. Please find in what follows the table of the distribution of inhabitants by age. Data about foreigners living in Sant'Antonio d'Ascula In Sant'Antonio d'Ascula live eighty-three foreigners, fourty-one are males and fourty-two are females. 83 come from Europa, 0 from Africa, 0 from America, 0 from Asia and 0 from Oceania. Please find in what follows the table of the distribution of foreigners by age. |From 0 to 29 years||23||24||47| |From 30 to 54 years||14||14||28| |More than 54 years old||4||4||8| Education in Sant'Antonio d'Ascula There are in Sant'Antonio d'Ascula seven hundred and thirty-one people in school age, three hundred and sixty are males and three hundred and seventy-one females. |Genere||University degree||High school diploma||Middle School diploma||Primary School diploma||Literates||Illiterates| Employment rates and workers in Sant'Antonio d'Ascula There are in Sant'Antonio d'Ascula 344 people aged 15 years or more. 314 are employed and 19 were previously employed but now are unemployed and seeking for a new job. There are 211 males aged 15 years or more, 197 are employed and 9 were previously employed but now are unemployed and seeking for a new job. There are 133 females aged 15 years or more, 117 are employed and 10 s were previously employed but now are unemployed and seeking for a new job. Families and their compositions There are in Sant'Antonio d'Ascula 262 famiglie residenti, for a total of 768 people. Please find in what follows a table showing the number of families along with the number of people for each family. |People||1||2||3||4||5||6 or more| There are 262 famiglie living in Sant'Antonio d'Ascula. 25 live in rented houses, 190 live in houses of their own property and 47 live in houses for different reasons. The buildings and their characteristics in Sant'Antonio d'Ascula There are in Sant'Antonio d'Ascula 254 buildings, but only 251 are used. 196 buildings are for residential use, 55 buildings are for commercial or productive pourposes. Among the 196 buildings for residential use 168 were build using bricks of tuffs, 18 were built in concrete and 10 were built using other materials like steel, wood and so on. Among the 196 buildings for residential use 128 are in excellent condition, 59 are in good conditions, 9 are in mediocre conditions and 0 are in bad conditions. In the following three tables the buildings built for residential use in Sant'Antonio d'Ascula are classified by building year, by floors number and by rooms number.

For once, France can’t take any credit for the success of one of its own grapes. Once upon a time, Malbec was from France and not given much at- tention, but the neglected grape found a happy home in Argentina where it gets to bask in both sunshine and limelight. The arrangement seems ideal: Country helps grape, grape helps country. But Malbec’s biological parent wants to share in its kid’s newfound success. Should Malbec return to its native soil, or lay down roots in its adopted land? Some like it hot: Argentina’s dry climate, sunny days and high altitude make for optimal growing conditions for the heat-loving, thin-skinned Malbec grape. Dating back to southwestern France in the 13th century, Malbec is one of the six grapes allowed in the famous red blends of the Bordeaux region. However, after the frost of 1956 killed 70 percent of the Malbec vines, the grape’s inclusion in Bordeaux wines to- day is minute at best. Other small plantings of Malbec exist in the Languedoc and the Loire Valley, but France’s biggest stronghold remains the region of Cahors (60 miles southeast of Bordeaux), with about 10,000 acres planted. Cahors blends its Malbec with small amounts of Merlot and Tannat. The British lapped up this inky “black wine” until a 1373 mandate following the Hundred Year War gave growers a financial incentive to plant along the Gironde River in the Bor- deaux region. Add in Malbec’s extreme sus- ceptibility to frost, downy mildew, and rot, along with an identity crisis of having more than 50 nicknames, (CoÌt Noir, Auxerrois, and Pressac being the most common), and you’ve got a grape destined for failure. Malbec’s rise began in the mid-19th century when a French agronomist brought grapevine cuttings from France to plant in Argentina. Among them were Malbec. This thin-skinned grape that requires lots of sun and heat to ripen thrived in the Argentina’s high altitude, dry climate, and 300- plus days of annual sunshine. By 2003, the country was growing 100,000 acres of Mal- bec, and by 2008, it had become a star with one easy-to-pronounce name, like Cher and Madonna. The wines are just as airbrushed and two-dimensional too. They seduce you with an unctuous mouthful of plump blackberries and blackcurrants and then caress you with tannins as soft and sultry as velvet. Acidity is often lacking in these wines, but for most people, that isn’t a deal-breaker. If there is a third dimension coming through in Argentinean Malbec, it is usually oak. When done well, cinnamon and cedar commingle in a subtle swirl. When overdone, you are sucking on vanilla-flavored bark chips. What French Malbec has that Argentinean Malbec doesn’t is an iron- and lime- stone-rich terroir that imparts a smoky, meaty quality not unlike, well, bacon fat. If I had you at bacon, and if you like a wine with a little more tannic grip and puckery acidity (especially when you are eating something deliciously rich and fatty, like duck breast), then you might appreciate the classic version over the newfangled one. Think more Sean Connery and less Pierce Brosnan. With Malbec, no matter what it calls it-self or where it considers home, you’re guaranteed a big, bold wine exploding with ripe purple fruit that’s ready to drink now for a good price. With all that going for it, I’d say the future is pretty bright for this once-orphaned grape.

So as you’ve probably figured out, I am fascinated by Asian Americans and their religions. And wherever possible I try to find the best examples that can shed light on this population because they help us to learn about how we know anything about religion today, and how we need to improve what we know. I mentioned earlier that sociologists are struggling over how to identify Asian Americans and their religious preferences in surveys. And I alluded to the problem that people with “no religion” might in fact be religious . What makes someone religious? In the minds of many it could simply be belief in God, or it could be praying, reading a sacred text, or attending a religious service on a regular basis. Sociologists describe this as measures of religiosity. We tend to think of religiosity in two forms: beliefs and behavior. Note: you can believe all kinds of things, and practice all kinds of rituals and say that you’re a Christian or that you have no religion. It’s what Brad Wright summarized in a recent argument made by sociologist Mark Chaves: most religious people experience incongruity between what they say they are, what they believe, and what they do. Asian Americans are no exception. To get an idea about how incongruity might look like we can examine the connection between one measure of religiosity, church attendance, and religious affiliation (how someone identifies their religion) among Asian Americans. Why is this important? If you’re religious (particularly Christian in this example), church attendance is important because it is a characteristic of faithful practice as described in the Bible. For the sociologist it’s important because attending church has a lot of social consequences (we’ll talk about these in more detail in future posts) – people seem to be happier and build social connections for example. This latter point is very important for immigrants, especially for Asian Americans, most of whom are in immigrant households. As I mentioned before, religion is important to many, if not most immigrants due to the costs they endure in uprooting their lives to replant themselves in a new environment where they are less fluent with the language and culture. Many turn to religious communities in particular to make social connections with other ethnic immigrants. In many cases, social services are provided here, individuals get leads to “good doctors” (the ones that might be fluent in their language or work close enough to make an appointment and visit), lawyers, and other professionals. And business entrepreneurs might meet new clientele through a religious immigrant community as well. To keep things simple, sociologists are usually most interested in the answers at the extremes. In the case of church attendance, we usually make a distinction between those who attend church “at least once a week or more” and those who don’t attend at all. Here’s what 3 surveys tell us: The PNAAPS conducted in 2001 asked respondents “how often do you attend religious services?” 54% of Asian American Protestants attend church every week, and 71% of those who have no religious preference do not attend at all. This means that a little more than half of Asian American Protestants attended church at a pretty high rate in 2001, and about 29% of Asian Americans who have no religious preference were attending church at least a few times a year. The PRLS08 asked: “Aside from weddings and funerals, how often do you attend religious services” and among the English-speaking Asian Americans they found: 68% of evangelical Protestants attended church at least once a week, and 39% of those with no religious affiliation do not attend at all. Again we see that the majority of Protestants (specifically evangelical Protestants) attend church at a very high rate. But now it appears that almost 62% the nonaffiliated were showing up at a church at least on “seldom” occasions not including weddings and funerals. And the NAAS08 shows us that about 58% of evangelical Protestants attended church at least once a week. But what about the nonaffiliated? We have a problem. The NAAS skips this question if someone previously said that they have no religion. By this logic, the NAAS shows that 100% of those with no religion do not attend a church. The logic of this “skip” based on answering the religious preference question is an assumption of congruity, and it leaves out the folks that have “no religion” but do in fact visit a church more than a few times a year. Religious congruity would expect that Asian American Christians should attend church a lot, and that Asian Americans with no religion would not attend at all. Three surveys tell us that yes, a lot of Asian American Protestants, especially the English-speaking evangelical variety, are quite religious (if attending church at least once a week counts as “very religious”). But about a third or so are not. These surveys also tell us that anywhere between 30 and 60 percent that have no religious preference attend church at least a few times a year. That’s not congruent.

We all remember the thrill of our first, ever car – the elation of being free of the parent taxi service or dreaded local bus. Having a car as a young adult was a status symbol – a message to our peers that we had finally arrived in the world. According to DVLA records, however, car ownership is now on the decline, with far less 17-20 year olds holding driving licenses, compared to 25 years ago. In fact, compared to 1990, there’s been a 12.5% reduction in young adults holding a license. This is shown most prominently in men – with only 33% in 2015 having a driving license, compared to 54% in 1990. Car leasing company, Cars on Demand, carried out a survey to find out how today’s youth feel about driving and car ownership. It seems this Millennial generation have wildly differing views on what’s important to them in terms of status compared to those of us growing up in the early 1990s. To find out more about this mysterious segment of society, Cars on Demand ran a survey of 2,000 18-25 year olds, to understand their thoughts on car ownership and what ultimately, is most important to them in terms of status symbols. According to the survey results, 29% of Millennials ranked owning their own home as most important to them in terms of the ultimate status symbol. It’s what our millennial respondents ranked second highest, however, in terms of the ultimate status symbol that got us feeling, well old. The second most popular answer amongst our survey participants was a large following on social media. That’s right - for 24% of respondents, ‘making it’ on social media was their ultimate status symbol. Forget the designer clothes, latest phones, laptops and car, for them, having thousands of followers on their Instagram page was their ultimate mark of status. Paul Brown, managing director at Cars on Demand, said: ‘There’s really little reason for Millennials to own cars nowadays and nor does it seem they’re interested in doing so. That’s why short-term leasing can be an attractive option to this non-committal generation.’

This week's poem, "Shepherds", gives contemporary resonance to the pastoral elegy. It's by Sasha Dugdale and comes from her third collection Red House, published by Carcanet last year under their Oxford Poets imprint. Pastoral poets traditionally transposed their shepherd characters to a distant Golden Age, and gave them infinite leisure for their courtly preoccupations. Dugdale's focus is on the Sussex shepherds of the South Downs, "ghosts" now, but also real working men in a real place. Their decline, hastened by the expansion of arable farming during the second world war, seems to have otherwise been little noticed or lamented. These shepherds and their flocks trudged the old chalk grassland of the South Downs for thousands of years, and, as the poem shows us, helped shape the landscape as it is now. The very turf – short, springy, foot-friendly – is the work of generations of browsing sheep and nibbling rabbits. The month is June, suggesting midsummer abundance and ceremony, with perhaps a gentle heat haze. The fine summer of 1914 seems also to hover. As if the figures might have reassembled "out of battle", the hook on the end of the shepherd's crook, designed to hold a lantern, carries in line two an ominous "musket barrel." The internal "crook/hook" rhyme is picked up by "book" at the end of the stanza. That predominantly choppy sound might hint at distant gunfire, though it also echoes the tones of the solider sheep-bells, summoned by WH Hudson in A Shepherd's Life, as "the sonorous clonk-clonk of the big copper bell". The visually striking compound depiction of the wind-sculpted hawthorn as "mermaid's hair and open book" is followed by an isolated hexameter line, like a down-to-earth corrective: "There are those who died on the hills, and those who died in their beds". Subsequent images suggest accidental conflagration ("the oil lamp tipped") as well as soldiering ("their crook a rifle/ cigarettes for their bible"). The word "rifle", rather than "musket", denotes a more recent war, and produces a startling para-rhyme with "bible". The landscape seems reflected in the shape of the poem. Ebbing and flowing rhythms gradually unveil new perspectives. Dugdale sometimes avoids punctuation, letting the natural break at the end of the line do the work, or leaving the syntactic units connectively open. An occasional comma or stop at the end of a line seems to forge a link with the next, rather than a separation. The short closing line of each stanza creates a melodic cadence which is often a prelude to the next unit of sound. "The South is tender and will harbour anyone," Edward Thomas wrote in his essay, "The South Country". This gentleness is registered by Dugdale when she personifies and feminises the land and writes that she (the land) is "never like a moor, never fierce like that". But neither is Nature, as conceived in the Red House poems, soft and sweet. Power as well as kindness is recognised in the way "She'd carry you back to our own gate/ On the palm of her hand … " There's a faintly visionary aspect, too. Although "the hills are not high" they are separate from "our low troubles". The children see them with "a shock of memory" – suggesting that the view, although familiar, is always freshly sensed, and brings, despite its magical proximity to the sky, a feeling of ancestral closeness. The shepherds are not simply ghostly or mythic in stanza four: their association with the remote "high roads" of "kings and saints" is also a function of their work. The last we see of them is their dogs, also "Creatures apart". The poem is not entirely centred on the shepherds, however, and now it extends its reach in time and space – "Down the scarp, up there … " The beautiful last stanza reworks the trope of land as Bible, prefigured by the hawthorn's "open book". After the "blazing white" of sunlit chalk, suggesting bridal linen as well as clean paper, lovingly picked-out details illuminate this sacred South Downs text, and the sounds are as delicate as the images: "She wrote it in chalk, in rabbit droppings, and lady's smock/ She wrote it in sweet marjoram and adorned it with bells … " The poignancy of the past tense and the possessive pronoun ("she wrote it for her shepherds") deepens the linguistic metaphor. What began as an elegy for the shepherds, and then became a eulogy for the Downs, seems finally to elegise language – the collaborative meaning made and shared between the place and its inhabitants, "Who are gone". The unreadable landscape seems, in that bleakly simple ending, to anticipate its own decline, a decline that can be interpreted to include printed "bibles" of all kinds. Pastoral gains a contemporary "edge" in Dugdale's threnody, but the poem's roots surely extend beyond ecological or social critique into the live connection between the close-reading poet (also a professional translator) and her native Sussex countryside. Late June the ghosts of shepherds meet on the hills And one has his crook with its musket barrel hook One carries a Bible, and all wear the smock And listen out for the little bells and the canister bells Worn by the sheep and the big cattle, carried by the wind Which shapes the hawthorn into mermaid's hair and open book. There are those who died on the hills, and those who died in their beds, The haloed, who wear a flame above them, were Asleep in their wagons, the stove door ajar The oil lamp tipped. And scores stamp A last ghastly dawn patrol – their crook a rifle Cigarettes for their bible. The hills are not high. High enough To exist outside us, our low troubles At the school gates the children look up And see with a shock of memory That the earth gathers itself Into another world One closer to the sky Once peopled by shepherds, Who inherited the high roads from kings and saints As they passed, withy ropes about their shoulders. Who spoke little, and wore tall hats Bawled gently at their dogs, Who were themselves Times when the mist comes up And rolls like weighted grey Down the scarp, up there The cars see their lamps reflected back A metre ahead, and the back of her is silent But never like a moor, never fierce like that She'd carry you back to your own gate On the palm of her hand – not bury you alive. Her spine is a landshed, and a land of itself A land of haunches and shoulders, and glistening fields Impossible that they weren't in love with her The kindness of her miles, the smalls of her back, The blazing white of her summers. The Bible is her book: she wrote it for her shepherds To train them in oblivion and seasons And the time she knows, the slowest time on earth. She wrote it in chalk, in rabbit droppings, and lady's smock She wrote it in sweet marjoram and she adorned it with bells And it has no meaning for anyone, except the shepherds Who are gone.

Fun, free and educational activities will introduce children to the science and mystery of our oceans. Children can create their very own sea creature to take home at the Seven Seas Art Workshop, running from 12pm – 6pm each day. Design and construct a kite at the Go Fly Your Kite workshops provided by the Science Foundation Ireland. Discover the creatures along the seashore with the Explorers Education ‘nobby boat’ with touch tank displays, experiments and demonstrations. Mould mountains and create patterns in kinetic sand with the INFOMAR Augmented Reality Sandbox. Take time out in the ‘Sea Sanctuary’, an area for parents and children to relax and view free screenings of marine-themed films, including the popular Irish animation Song of the Sea. Hear tales of pirate adventures and magical sea creatures at the storytelling sessions running from 12pm to 4pm each day. Explore the deep sea with an art-marine installation and short film which re-enacts the 2011 discovery of the Moytirra hydrothermal vent fields found along the mid-Atlantic range. Students from Cregmore National School have developed the installation together with artist Louise Manifold, as part of a collaboration between the Explorers Education Programme and the Tulca Offshore programme. Children will also enjoy free face painting, fun photos at the Aunt Sally boards, as well as street theatre and roving seafaring entertainment. All activities are free.

Heartland Food Products Group, makers of Splenda Sweeteners, is claiming that the recent CSPI rating on Sucralose is misleading to consumers. In response to the safety rating of sucralose by the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI), Heartland Food Products Group, the makers of SPLENDA Sweeteners, wants people to know their side of the story. Here is the official statement from Heartland: The CSPI rating is based solely on one study of mice that was conducted by the Ramazzini Institute in Italy, published in the International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health, and does not reflect the collective body of scientific evidence proving the safety of sucralose. Additionally, health regulatory and food safety authorities have found other studies conducted by the Ramazzini Institute to be unreliable. The group routinely conducts studies using an unconventional design and has been criticized for not following internationally-recognized safety assessment standards. The truth is that the collective scientific evidence strongly supports that sucralose is safe and does not cause cancer. Sucralose has been extensively researched, with more than 110 studies conducted over a 20-year period. These studies include rigorous testing to specifically identify any potential for causing cancer. Worldwide regulatory authorities, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the European Food Safety Authority, Health Canada and the World Health Organization, have reviewed these studies and confirm that results show no link between sucralose and cancer. The U.S. National Cancer Institute also supports this conclusion. Our society faces significant health risks with obesity and being overweight, including complications like diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Research indicates that one contributor to becoming overweight can be excess intake of added sugars. As a consequence, the current U.S. Dietary Guidelines, the World Health Organization and the American Heart Association have all recommended a reduction in average sugar consumption. Low-calorie sweeteners, like SPLENDA®, are effective tools for consumers to reduce their added sugar intake, helping them to lead healthier lives. This latest study by the Ramazzini Institute is just one more example of the type of report that perpetuates misperceptions about low-calorie sweeteners. Extensive research strongly supports that sucralose is safe for everyone and does not cause cancer. That is why SPLENDA Sweeteners are recommended by health care professionals every day and are safely used by millions of people with a variety of health conditions, such as diabetes, obesity and being overweight. For more information from Heartland, you can visit .

In a narration of Imam Ahmad, Abu Dharr asked Prophet Muhammad, "O Messenger of Allah, how many are the prophets?" He replied, "120,000 and between their number are 315 messengers." The Holy Quran mentions twenty-five of these messengers, namely: Adam, Noah, Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob, David, Solomon, Job, Joseph, Moses, Aaron, Zacharia, John (the Baptist), Idris (Enoch), Jonah, Hud, Shu`ayb, Salih, Lot, Ilyas, Ilya`sa, Dhu 'l-Kifl, Jesus and Sayyidina Muhammad, peace be upon them all. These are the messengers of God who came with holy books containing the Divine Message. The others are prophets who received divine revelation but who were not ordered to deliver it to anyone; it was for them. By way of example, all of Jacob's sons were prophets, but Joseph was the only messenger from among them. Laboriously compiled from rare manuscripts, traditional Islamic texts, and other printed source material, including ahadith and athar and the many traditional books of history, and painstakingly translated from Ottoman Turkish to English, Lore of Light depicts the perfected, blessed character and refined manners that God bestowed on His blessed prophets and messengers. This illustrious work examines the lives of the prophets and messengers of God in great detail, heretofore unknown in English literature on their lives. It depicts the great lengths to which these holy figures went - at times losing life, suffering humiliation, torment and abuse from those who opposed them, often leaving their homes, always tolerant of their attackers and seeking peace - to guide the many peoples and nations of the world towards the light which God has sent throughout time for humankind's betterment and upliftment.

When we hear the word bacteria, the immediate thought that comes to our mind is that of unhealthy and disease causing agents. Most of us are unaware of the fact that there are certain bacteria that are beneficial for our health and their consumption can improve the overall health. Pro-biotics are one of these bacteria. The World Health Organisation and Food and Agricultural Organisation have defined Probiotics as “Live micro-organisms which when administered in adequate amounts confer a health benefit on the host”. Our intestines contain more than 100 million organisms, which weigh more than a kilogram. Some of these are beneficial while others are harmful. There is a need to maintain a proper balance of the microbial population for ensuring good health. Probiotics play an important role in maintaining this balance by increasing the number of beneficial bacteria and minimising the harmful bacteria. Thus, it defends the body against the raiding pathogens and enabling proper digestion and absorption of nutrients. With increased awareness of health and healthy diet, the popularity of probiotic drinks has been increasing. These are basically, dairy based beverages, which have a consistency similar to milk. These are often considered as drinkable yogurts. Today they are available in a wide range of flavours at your nearest grocer’s shop. Given below is a list of some of the healthiest probiotic drinks which you can consider incorporating in your diet: This delicious probiotic drink Yakult helps to improve intestinal function and builds immunity. It is prepared from skimmed milk powder, sugar, glucose, natural flavour, water and about 6.5 billion beneficial bacteria (Lactobacillus caseistrain Shirota). It has a citrus taste. Daily consumption of this drink can increase the amount of good bacteria in your gut, which improve digestion and bowel movement. It also improves nutrient absorption to strengthen your natural defenses. Today it is a popular drink with over 30 million people in more than 30 countries including India consuming it daily! [ Read: Nutritional Drinks Available In India ] 2. Good Belly: If you are suffering from stomach upset due to food sensitivities, then Good Belly is the right choice for you. This delicious probiotic drink comprises of live and active probiotic cultures, such as Lactobacillus plantarum 299v (LP299V®), one of the most prominent probiotic cultures available in the market. Unlike most probiotic drinks, Good Belly drinks are dairy free, soy free and entirely vegan and a treat for those who love the refreshing taste of juice. They come in a range of original flavours like mango, strawberry, lemon ginger, coconut water, pomegranate, blackberry, cranberry watermelon, tropical orange, carrot ginger etc. Daily consumption of this drink promotes healthy digestion. 3. Beyond Berry: Beyond Berry-student formula is basically a powdered protein drink comprising of organic berries. It is low in calories but rich in antioxidants, enzymes and probiotics. Its benefits include prevention of inflammation, improved response to stress by increased support to adrenal glands, increased energy, improved mental clarity, protection of cells from oxygen damage, healthier skin and strengthened immune and digestive systems. Being rich in antioxidants, it also helps protect against free radical damage. This drink is available online at amazon.com. 4. Dan Active: Dan Active from Dannon is one of the most popular dairy drinks in U.S.A. It is also available in a range of flavours like vanilla, strawberry, peach, pomegranate berry, blueberry and mixed berry or light pomegranate berry. This drink helps strengthen your body’s defences, thus improving your resistance to infections. It is widely available in grocery stores in 3.1 oz. bottles. 5. PRE Probiotic Enhancer: This organic juice by Pre is available in a variety of flavours and is suitable for people of all ages. It aids digestion by promoting healthy digestive balance and facilitating the growth of beneficial bacteria already present in your digestive system. An increase in probiotics improves your resistance to harmful bacteria and boosts your immune system. This drink is available at your online Amazon store. [ Read: Probiotic Foods for Your Immune System ] 6. Kyo-Dophilus Powder: This probiotic drink by Kyolic is recommended during and after undergoing medication and is suitable for all ages. Its benefits include improved immunity and digestive system and overall well being. It is available in the form of probiotic powder, which is devoid of preservatives, sodium, sugar, gluten, yeast, milk and artificial colours or flavours. You can sprinkle it on your food or add to drinks. It is available at your local food store in 3.1 oz. bottles. Cocobiotic by Body Ecology is a naturally fermented drink prepared from young coconuts and is gluten free. Its benefits include improved digestion and liver cleansing, lower sugar cravings, and increased energy. For better results, it is recommended to drink 4 ounces of this drink with each meal. 9. Doc’s Friendly Flora Enhanced Microbial Liquid Probiotics: This probiotic drink claims detoxification, weight loss and improved well being. It is particularly beneficial for those suffering from autism, ADHD and cognitive disorders. It contains several different probiotic strains and a phototropic. It is always preferable to consult a doctor and discuss benefits of probiotic drinks before using them regularly.

“You should try to make your classroom more student-centered & interactive – Don’t lecture/talk at your students so much.” “Do you think you could integrate the concepts of the flipped classroom to optimize student learning time?” “How much input do you give you students in choosing what, where, and how they learn?” As a school administrator have you ever said something like this to a teacher? My guess would be that the answer to my question is YES. And if that is true, let me ask you why then do you, as a school leader, not practice what you preach when it comes to your own staff meetings and professional learning? Look back to the above questions again and replace the word student(s) with teacher(s)? If your evaluator asked you these same questions as ‘teachers’ as the subject, would these same criticism apply to you as the teacher of your teachers? Does the idiom “Do I Say, Not as I Do” fit? After hearing about the incredible work that Jonathan Bergmann and Aaron Sams were doing with ‘the flipped classroom’ in their chemistry classes at Woodland Park High School and our school’s increasing struggles with not having enough time to provide effective professional development (PD) for our staff in light of our district’s 1:1 program implementation. Our school’s leadership team; Steve Meyers – Principal; Amy Arbogash – Technology Integration Specialist; and myself decided if we are going to truly transform the way our teachers teach and our students learn we need to change how we provided PD for our staff…or put another way we would have to practice what we preached – to do as we said AND as we did. Our school’s staff meeting and PD schedule is fairly standard – we have a staff meeting on every 3rd Wednesday of the month for 90 minutes and during the school year we have two ‘early release’ PD days – students are dismissed at 12:30 pm, so we have 120 minutes in the afternoon of PD time. So in the course of a school year we have about 1,500 minutes or 25 hours of professional meeting time. We had been using these 25 hours in a traditional ‘meeting format’ – i.e. they were completely administratively led; admins picked the topics, created the agenda, ran the meeting, etc. These ‘sit and get’ meetings were information, one-sided presentation meetings. And to put it nicely these weren’t times that our staff ran to the location of the meetings and eagerly awaited their beginning. And rightfully so, when your ‘learner’ has no input on the topics, gets talked to the entire time, and doesn’t necessarily get any tangible/applicable new knowledge or skills for their job from the meeting – its no surprise they didn’t like them. However by simply looking at these 25 hours differently and pledging to integrate the practice of ‘flipping’ to create authentic, effective, and learner-centered opportunities – our issues of ineffective meetings AND our need for more PD time suddenly both were answered. We began the practice of flipping our staff meetings. Our flipped staff meetings included 6 key elements: - We started to creating a monthly screencast called BVIP (Bay View Information and Primers), which we would send out at least a week prior to the staff meeting. These screencasts would include Information (announcements and reminders) that used to be covered at staff meetings and the staff needed to hear/know. We believe that while these informational pieces were important for the functioning of our school, they didn’t need to be covered when we were all together – essentially our time together was too valuable to be ‘wasted’ on announcements. So they were easily flipped into these screencasts. The Primers included in the screencasts would help set up the upcoming staff meeting. These Primers would ensure all staff were prepared and on the same page for the staff meeting – further optimizing the time we had together. These could include directions for the activity we were doing at the staff meeting, could be an overview of the topic we were going to be covering, a professional article or video they needed to watch prior to the meeting, directions for signing up for a program/app/service we were going to use at the staff meeting, etc. - We have fully dedicated our staff meetings as teacher-centered (and driven, see key element #3 below) professional development opportunities. Gone are the days of ‘sit and get’ or using that precious time for anything other than productive, professional collaboration and growth. We faced a lot of challenges in making this shift absolutely, even from pressures within our district structure, however we have not gone back at all since making the conversion. - We directly solicited our staff to find out what topics, activities, learnings they wanted and needed for their classrooms/professional growth. By asking for and acting upon topics/needs directly from our staff, not only did they feel ‘listened to’, but the topics we explored were topics the staff wanted – resulting in greater staff engagement and satisfaction. We have also worked to include more choice of topics to meet the individual needs of each and every staff member. Each staff member is at different points in their learning, so by providing more choice we have further improved the PD we have offered. - Integrating more site-based professional development activities within our staff meetings/early release times shifted a lot of work and burden to our school and leadership team. However we believe that just because we are the administrators or ‘leaders’ of the school, we don’t have to be the only facilitator and/or expert of all of the topics/areas we work on. Staff posses strengths, expertise, and interests in a variety of areas and they want to share it with their colleagues. These opportunities help to further engage those staff members leading the PD and it created greater buy in from the rest of the staff because they were learning from their colleagues on topics they were really interested in. - A common condition our staff felt in the past was the feeling of working alone. By flipping our staff meeting and maximizing the time we had together has allowed us to provide more opportunities for our staff to learn from each other and work together. This increased amount of collaboration time has helped all of us learn more, grow more – together. People are working outside of their Houses (teams), outside of their departments, outside of their grade levels, outside of their friend groups; this has helped to create a wider and stronger bond throughout our entire staff. - Do as I Say AND as I Do. Flipping staff meetings has allowed our leadership team to shake the label of being hypocrites as we are practicing what we preach. Not only does this modeling help the staff feel better about taking risks and trying new teaching/classroom practices, but it also allows us to experience all of the issues and challenges that our teachers will experience when they try to integrate the flipping classroom model or personalized learning, etc. This has allowed us to become advocates for our staff and the initiatives we are implementing in our school. This has also gone a long way to increase staff engagement in our meetings and in our school. If you believe that John Dewey was right when he said “If we teach today’s students as we taught yesterday’s, we rob them of tomorrow.” Wouldn’t you also believe Dewey’s same sentiment being applied to teachers? “If we teach today’s teachers as we taught yesterday’s, we rob them of teaching tomorrow’s youth”? Our schools, our staff, our students and our future require us to be innovative, to change, to evolve, to improve. By simply flipping our staff meetings we have created 25 hours or 3 full work days of time for our staff to work together, to learn from one another, to improve, to help us succeed in these transformative times.

Friends of the Earth criticised Transport for London (TfL) today after its Board approved a controversial new bridge across the Thames, despite the fact that a full environmental impact assessment has not been completed. The environmental campaign group said that the proposed £450 million Thames Gateway Bridge between Beckton in the east and Thamesmead in the south-east of London will increase traffic and pollution and be of little benefit to the local community, who have not been properly consulted. TfL is now expected to apply for planning permission. Friends of the Earth's London Campaigns Co-ordinator said: "This is a bad day for the people of East and South East London. This new bridge will bring little to the area except more traffic and pollution. But the fight is far from over. We will continue to campaign against this bridge and Transport for London's short-sighted vision that supports it being built." Friends of the Earth opposes the proposed 6-lane road bridge because: - It would lead to an increase in traffic levels in the area, bringing more pollution and congestion to some of the poorest parts of London, where car ownership is low anyway. - A top independent expert says it would do little or nothing to relieve unemployment locally, and that there are better and cheaper ways to help regenerate the area. - The bridge would result in "worse journey times for most people" according to one transport expert , and a report for John Prescott's department says the bridge "could even be counter productive" to business development because of the added congestion. - Road transport is also one of the biggest contributors to climate change which threatens extinction to a quarter of the world's species in the next 50 years. - The recent public consultation on the bridge was flawed, as there was inadequate information available and no alternative schemes were offered. People should be offered real choices on what transport options would best help their area and improve transport access.

PARSING PARSLEY FACTS Growing parsley as an herb and vegetable originated around the Mediterranean Sea thousands of years ago. Parsley is a member of the same family as carrots. When growing parsley, be aware that the same pests afflict them similarly. Growing parsley for tea is recommended by Chinese and German herbologist for the controlling of high blood pressure. 2. WHEN TO PLANT It takes about 70 to 90 days for planting and growing parsley from the time the seeds are planted until harvesting time, depending on your climatic conditions. If you live in a Northerly climate, its best to plant your seeds in trays indoors, then transplant them into your garden or herb garden after the danger of frost is past. You'll want to start growing parsley indoors about 6 or 8 weeks ahead of the last frost. In Southern climates you can seed several times throughout your growing season to achieve ongoing harvesting from April until December. In most climate areas in the mainland U.S., parsley can be over-wintered and harvested in the early spring. If you plant too early in the spring, a cold snap might cause the plant to bolt (go to seed) early. 4. WHERE TO PLANT Parsley prefers at least 6 to 8 hours of full sun daily, and does well with some shade as long as it gets the sun it needs. In warmer climates, some afternoon shade is preferable. Parsley actually does best in cooler climate areas, and grows best in rich, moist, but well-drained soil. 6. PREPARING YOUR SOIL While parsley grows best in a pH between 6.0 and 7.0, it will tolerate well pH levels between 5.3 and 7.3. Parsley needs a good supply of nitrogen (N) to grow green quickly and produce flowers and seeds Phosphorus (P) in your soil encourages strong roots and rapid growth in parsley. Potassium, or Potash (K), aids in fighting disease, photosynthesis, and building of protein in parsley. All of these nutrients are organically available in compost, composted manure, bone meal, and blood meal among others. Check the pH level of your soil with a tester. If you need to make it more alkaline, add lime. To make it more acidic, add sulphur. To prepare your ground for planting parsley, layer about 2 to 4 inches of composted manure and/or compost (you can also add bone meal and blood meal) where your rows will be and till it into the soil to about 6 inches deep. Rake the row areas until smooth, remove any stick or rocks or other debris, and break up any dirt clods. 7. Omble-knight's nets in mushrooms and oil of parsley 1,2 kg of nets of omble 250 g of mushroom (mixture) oil of olive to roast 1 c. in soup of hacked parsley and hacked scallions 1/2 c. in coffee of hacked garlic 1 dl of brown bottom of well reduced calf Oil of parsley: 2 dl of oil of pips of grapes 80 g of flat parsley Sort out and wash the parsley, by abolishing the big stems. Mix leaves with oil and top of salt. Let soak 3 or 4 hours. This oil can keep several days in expenses. Clean, slice thinly and skip mushrooms, in the oil of olive. Season and add the scallion, the parsley and the garlic. Blend long before to blow up. Add the brown bottom and be fond of heat without cooking, complicate possibly of a net of lemon juice. Season the nets of omble, then make them roast in the oil of olive in a frying pan in the "Teflon". Will you colour the 2 faces and raise, by accompanying it with some ragout of mushrooms, with a cord of oil of parsley, just lukewarm, and of a bit of fried parsley?

In the next week I will be addressing the question of what a significant theological education looks like — including marks and characteristics as well as what to stay away from. For now, I want to look at Matt Barkley. USC quarterback Matt Barkley, a top-7 NFL draft prospect, shocked the college world by announcing that he is passing up the prospect of a lucrative rookie-contract to play another season of college football. His reason? “I am staying because I want to finish what I started.” In other words, Barkley sees the college experience as something more than leverage to a fatter paycheck. College is a preparatory experience that includes goals and achievement, benchmarks, and learning to manage duties and responsibilities. Any NFL quarterback needs these skills. And while the prognosticators may project market demand and value, they do not pretend to project readiness and preparation. When I was an undergrad at Baylor University I was privileged to be part of something called the ministry guidance program, which afforded me two learning opportunities. First, I had the opportunity to shadow pastors and elders at my local church and to pick their brains on the real deal of pastoral ministry. It was an amazing experience. Second, I was part of a weekly class taught by a seasoned pastor/professor that included lectures, reading, and discussion with students and pastors. This was a mixed experience. It was mixed because I was shocked by the level of arrogance, conjecture, and jockeying that took place in the Baptist ministry culture in Texas. I heard pastors make statements about classmates such as: “You can tell that this guy is headed for big things in ministry.” Or, “You just know that he is going to be a mega-church pastor one day. He is gifted.” And, “He will probably start out at a church of 500 after college and then will quickly move up the ranks after he completes his seminary degree.” In other words, these classmates and their well-meaning pastors viewed seminary as a stepping stone to a career path. But I read a different perspective on ministry preparation in the Bible. Take Acts 9 for example. When Paul first became a follower of Jesus, he spent time in Damascus with the Christians there — in preparation for ministry. The ESV notes on Acts 9 say this: Acts 9:19b–20 Saul likely received instruction in the Christian “way” from the disciples at Damascus. In Galatians, Paul notes that during this time he “went away into Arabia, and returned again to Damascus” (Gal. 1:17). (“Arabia” here means the Nabatean Kingdom, northeast of the Dead Sea, not the Arabian Peninsula.) synagogues. The pattern of Paul’s beginning his witness in the synagogues occurs throughout Acts, as does the pattern of opposition developing there (Acts 9:23). via Acts 9 – ESVBible.org. Bottom Line: pastoral ministry requires preparation. Theological education is supposed to prepare pastors for long-tenured ministry. There are no short cuts to preparation. There is no career path. There is no credentialing. There is only reading, and mentoring, and bible study, and prayer, and hard work, and formation, and more prayer, and coffee/hot tea, and blowing off steam with some friends, and basketball games, and hot dogs, and episodes of Burn Notice, and theology, and discipleship, and growing in your satisfaction with Jesus, and an increase in the confidence of your calling/anointing for ministry. And that type of process comes only with a period of preparation. That is why Matt Barkley is returning to USC (for football) and it is why future pastors take the time in theological education (for local church ministry).

Search our database of hundreds of health information articles. They are current, constantly updated, and authoritatively sourced! Staph is short for Staphylococcus, a type of bacteria. There are over 30 types, but Staphylococcus aureus causes most staph infections (pronounced "staff infections"), including Skin infections are the most common. They can look like pimples or boils. They may be red, swollen and painful, and sometimes have pus or other drainage. They can turn into impetigo, which turns into a crust on the skin, or cellulitis, a swollen, red area of skin that feels hot. Anyone can get a staph skin infection. You are more likely to get one if you have a cut or scratch, or have contact with a person or surface that has staph bacteria. The best way to prevent staph is to keep hands and wounds clean. Most staph skin infections are easily treated with antibiotics or by draining the infection. Some staph bacteria such as MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) are resistant to certain antibiotics, making infections harder to treat. You may have heard of anabolic steroids, which can have harmful effects. But there's another type of steroid - sometimes called a corticosteroid - that treats a variety of problems. These steroids are similar to hormones that your adrenal glands make to fight stress associated with illnesses and injuries. They reduce inflammation and affect the immune system. You may need to take corticosteroids to treat Steroids are strong medicines, and they can have side effects, including weakened bones and cataracts. Because of this, you usually take them for as short a time as possible. Can a tan be healthy? Some people think that tanning gives them a healthy glow. But tanning, either outdoors or indoors with a tanning bed, is not healthy at all. It exposes you to harmful rays and puts you at risk for health problems such as melanoma and other skin cancers.What are UV rays, and how do they affect the skin? Sunlight travels to earth as a mixture of both visible and invisible rays. Some of the rays are harmless to people. But one kind, ultraviolet (UV) rays, can cause problems. They are a form of radiation. UV rays do help your body make vitamin D, but too much exposure damages your skin. Most people can get the vitamin D that they need with only about 5 to 15 minutes of sun exposure two to three times a week. There are three types of UV rays. Two of them, UVA and UVB, can reach the earth's surface and affect your skin. Using a tanning bed also exposes you to UVA and UVB. UVB rays can cause sunburn. UVA rays can travel more deeply into the skin than UVB rays. When your skin is exposed to UVA, it tries to protect itself from further damage. It does this by making more melanin, which is the skin pigment that makes your skin darker. That's what gives you a tan. This means that your tan is a sign of skin damage.What are the health risks of tanning? Since tanning means overexposure to UV rays, it can damage your skin and cause health problems such as It is also important to check your skin once a month. If you do see any new or changing spots or moles, go see your health care provider.Isn't indoor tanning safer than tanning in the sun? Indoor tanning is not better than tanning in the sun; it also exposes you to UV rays and damages your skin. Tanning beds use UVA light, so they expose you to a higher concentration of UVA rays than you would get by tanning in the sun. Tanning lights also expose you to some UVB rays. Some people think that getting a "base tan" in a tanning salon can protect you when you go in the sun. But a "base tan" causes damage to your skin and will not prevent you from getting sunburn when you go outside. Indoor tanning is particularly dangerous for younger people. You have a higher risk of melanoma if you started doing indoor tanning while you were a teen or young adult. Some research shows that frequent tanning may even be addictive. This can be dangerous because the more often you tan, the more damage you do to your skin.Are there safer ways to look tan? There are other ways to look tan, but they are not all safe: Your kidneys make urine by filtering wastes and extra water from your blood. The urine travels from the kidneys to the bladder in two thin tubes called ureters. The ureters are about 8 to 10 inches long. Muscles in the ureter walls tighten and relax to force urine down and away from the kidneys. Small amounts of urine flow from the ureters into the bladder about every 10 to 15 seconds. Sometimes the ureters can become blocked or injured. This can block the flow of urine to the bladder. If urine stands still or backs up the ureter, you may get a urinary tract infections. Doctors diagnose problems with the ureters using different tests. These include urine tests, x-rays, and examination of the ureter with a scope called a cystoscope. Treatment depends on the cause of the problem. It may include medicines and, in severe cases, surgery. The urethra is the tube that allows urine to pass out of the body. In men, it's a long tube that runs through the penis. It also carries semen in men. In women, it's short and is just above the vagina. Urethral problems may happen due to aging, illness, or injury. They include Urethral problems may cause pain or difficulty passing urine. You may also have bleeding or discharge from the urethra. Doctors diagnose urethral problems using different tests. These include urine tests, x-rays and an examination of the urethra with a scope called a cystoscope. Treatment depends on the cause of the problem. It may include medicines and, in severe cases, surgery.

Searching for a job where you could acquire sufficient earnings to assist you manage your money is not easy to do. Mainly, you need to take into consideration numerous things just before you can finally get hold of it. If you'd like to become successful in the career you choose to take, then you've got to be equipped with the appropriate abilities, understanding, and attitude. Remember that success is not a quick process. Becoming an expert in your preferred field will need you to hone your abilities first. This is exactly where training becomes really important. Training is very important as it may offer you the assurance of learning your chosen career path a lot more. There are now trainings which are provided on the web, yet, it is strongly suggested to obtain it in a proper way which is inside the classroom because this is far better. As a career, phlebotomy has been in great demand due to what is taking place in the medical society and also economy. If you are asking yourself precisely what phlebotomy is, its a procedure wherein a specialist will puncture a vein to take blood samples right from the patient. Venipuncture is precisely what this process is being called for. The person who really does phlebotomy is referred to as phlebotomy technician or just, phlebotomist. The duties of a phlebotomist consist of obtaining blood samples for a number of medical tests and procedures, transfusions, or even research. These individuals are usually the contact of the patients in the clinical lab. For that reason, they must always ensure regarding their patients' protection. This is simply because the blood samples that they have collected will help medical professionals in figuring out their patients' medical conditions. Needless to say, a phlebotomist's type of work may have slight variations even though the duties they uphold is the same. This is because it will vary according to where they're working. Recording and determining the identity of the patient and also preparing the medical equipment are just among the responsibilities they must do. Speaking with patients is also a great tactic so as to ease their feelings of worry. Aside from that, in addition they should place the blood samples in right containers and mark them accordingly for its processing. Their may also cover doing interviews and taking up vital signs. In addition, they're those who carry out the screening process of the blood samples given by donors. In addition they have to give the right suggestions simply by analyzing the outcomes. Phlebotomy is being made by medical doctors and nurses in other countries. For people who would like become a nurse or doctor later on, being a phlebotomist is one key to getting one. For you to do phlebotomy efficiently, you must have the required skills needed on this field. For this reason, phlebotomy training in Raleigh, North Carolina is important for you to be a professional in this field. If you're planning to be one, there are several prerequisites you need to comply. As it is, areas have various prerequisites, specifically in terms of training. Having a high school diploma and also a 6-week certification course are the most basic prerequisites for the training. The training that you need to undertake typically last for around fifteen weeks. Once you are completed with the course, you'll have greater likelihood of acquiring employed in a good company. Going through phlebotomy training in Raleigh, North Carolina for four months suggests that you'll be knowing all of the needed abilities on how to take blood successfully from numerous areas of the body. This is not exclusive for grown ups only as you will be trained the methods of getting blood right from kids and infants as well. The course also includes lessons approximately venipuncture. In addition, the ways on how to flush IVs with saline, give Heparin IVs, perform subcutaneous as well as intramuscular injections and more will be instructed to you throughout the training. After you have completed the training, you'll be given a certification and also a diploma simply by the academic school having the phlebotomy training. Needless to say, you could also acquire a degree in Phlebotomy by enrolling in an accredited vocational school in your area. In terms of our health, phlebotomy has a huge part. This is because it is one effective way of identifying illnesses. Therefore, you'll find lots of people who want to get a job in the phlebotomy field today. The training for this is relatively pricey, so it will be perfect if you begin saving up your money nowadays. Indeed, a lot of cash will be invested in this training, but you should think more about the edge that you can obtain in the event you will be capable to complete the whole training and have a greater chance to land a high paying job.

Memory Text: “Above all things have fervent love for one another, for ‘love will cover a multitude of sins’” (1 Peter 4:8, NKJV). Peter’s letter also tackles head-on some of the difficult social questions of his time. For instance, how should Christians live with an oppressive and corrupt government, such as what most of them experienced then: the pagan Roman Empire? What did Peter tell his readers, and what do his words mean to us today? How should Christian slaves react when their master treats them harshly and unjustly? Though modern employer-employee relationships are different from that of a first-century, master-slave relationship, what Peter says will no doubt resonate with those who have to deal with unreasonable bosses. How fascinating that Peter points to Jesus and how He responded to bad treatment as the example of how Christians should conduct themselves when faced with the same (1 Pet. 2:21-24). How should husbands and wives interact with one another, especially when they differ on a matter as fundamental as religious belief? Finally, how should Christians relate to the social order when, in fact, the social and/or political order might be decidedly corrupt and contrary to Christian faith?

Yet, we were reluctant to do it. We didn’t want to contribute in any way to the grave danger the reef is facing due to global warming. One of the main reasons we flew up to Far North Queensland was to experience the Barrier Reef. It would have been a waste NOT to have explored it. Yet, it’s not as straight forward as simply ‘jumping in the water and taking a look around.’ Alas, snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef is more involved than that. To get the best experience of the reef, it’s recommended to take a Snorkel Tour to the Outer Reef. You can take shorter snorkelling tours to Green Island etc, but by going further, you have less crowds and you tend to snorkel for longer. After doing some extensive research, we found a company who were not only eco-certified, but focused on research and preservation of the reef. The company hires marine biologists for their snorkelling tours and educate their customers on both marine and reef life. While it cost a little more, the extra money was worth it for the service they provide. In fact, they provide a healthy ratio of passengers to marine biologists on board. The staff really took care of the mental and physical health into consideration of their passengers, along with what was best for the reef, very seriously. After an amazing day snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef, we hope to have some helpful tips for you: 1. Choose a company that is eco-certified. There are a lot of companies that will take you out for a short jaunt but if you came to Far North Queensland to snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, isn’t it worth doing it right?! Lessen the impact YOU make and choose a company who cares about the Reef. You will not only be helping the environment, but you’ll also learn more about the Reef’s health and see more marine animals since you’ll be heading to outer Reef locations. Oh, and far fewer people will get in your way when you hit the water. Our recommendation: Wavelength out of Port Douglas. 2. Have your swimsuit on, before you board the boat. While you can change on board, once you’re on the water, rocking around, it’s not an easy thing to do. The change rooms (toilet) are tiny. Do yourself a favour, suit up before you leave home, plaster yourself with eco-conscious sunscreen and make sure you bring your hat and sunglasses, no matter how the weather looks on land. 3. Wear thongs/flip flops to the boat. Leave your lace ups at home. Once you board the boat, you’ll be asked immediately to remove your shoes. They’ll most likely be put into a big tub and you’ll get them back when you disembark. You will be barefoot on the boat and donning fins in the water. If you don’t like to be barefoot…well, this experience may not be for you. This is not a ‘no shirt, no shoes’ kind of service. 4. Before you put your stinger or wetsuit on, check the pockets of your swimsuit. Guys, this one is for you since women don’t have pockets in their swimsuits. I get it: It’s exciting to be snorkelling the Barrier Reef and you’ll be very eager to throw on that stinger suit and dive in. But please, learn from our lesson: Check your pockets. iPhones don’t like to be submerged in the ocean for an hour. Isn’t Rich? 5. Drink a lot of water. Most companies who take you out will offer you sodas, some even alcohol, but the most important beverage you need is good ole H2O. Being in salt water and sun for 4 or 5 hours will dry you out. Even your lips prune up. Your body will be begging you for fresh water. Drink it – constantly – when you’re not in the water. 6. Along those lines, this one is for the ladies: If you can, wear a two-piece swimsuit (even a tankini). Trying to get out of a wet stinger suit plus your one-piece swimsuit, when you need to pee (from drinking all that water) is, to put it mildly, a total pain in ass. It’s like shedding your skin and having to put it back on again. I mean, you know how it is with a wet swimsuit. A wet stinger/wetsuit added to the equation is just a nightmare. Add in the rocking of the boat while in a confined space… two-piece, that’s all I’m sayin’. 7. Try to be one of the first people in the water. I’m not saying elbow everyone one of the way. Just strategically put yourself in the front of the line, while everyone is still sorting out their gear. (I initially wrote ‘fear’ and yes, you’ll have those snorkelers too). You have a higher likelihood of seeing those shy marine creatures. I was one of the first in the water at our very first location and saw a reef shark swim directly under me (and no, it was not scary at all. They aren’t interested in humans. In fact, they will swim away quickly when humans are around.) As a result, I was one of only three who saw a reef shark all day. 8. Invest in an underwater camera. It doesn’t have to be to a Go-Pro, but have a camera you can use to capture what you’re seeing. You’ll want to remember this day. We’ve found that video works best underwater. Most companies will sell you a USB stick of photos at the end of the tour, but most times it’s a combination of marine life they’ve seen on other outings. It’s not representative of YOUR day. All of the photos – and video – on this page were taken either with our waterproof Olympus camera, or on our iPhone (not the one that went for a swim, obviously).

Find a Pest Control Professional Which Pests Survived the Cold? A Virginia Tech research experiment estimates that the Polar Vortex may have killed 95% of the stink bugs that hadn’t found shelter to stay warm this winter. However, not all common pests are freezing as homeowners might wish. Invasive species in the Northeast such as the emerald ash borer and southern pine beetle aren’t likely to survive the winter cold, but New York City cockroaches and bed bug populations will unfortunately not be affected. Also, even if adult pests freeze, they may have already laid eggs which will hatch when the weather warms.

Young children given hyperactivity drugs ‘against NICE guidance’ Pre-school children are being prescribed drugs such as ritalin for hyperactivity, contrary to NICE guidelines, warn child psychologists who say under-funding of child services is to blame. Researchers found more than a fifth (22%) of educational psychologists were aware of pre-school children taking stimulant medications – despite NICE guidelines saying children under five should not be prescribed them. The study based on a survey of 136 educational psychologists working in the UK, was carried out by researchers from the Division of Education and Child Psychology (DECP) at the British Psychological Society, and the Institute of Education at the University of London, The staff surveyed said pressures on child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS) meant children were not being properly assessed, and there was a rush to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) with medications rather than trying psychological interventions first, as NICE advises. ‘Our biggest difficulty is that CAMHS and paediatric teams are so short staffed they go straight to medication and completely ignore NICE guidance,’ a DECP briefing said. The survey also found educational psychologists felt that ‘intolerance of difference’ and ‘medical models of childhood’ were influencing how children’s learning and behaviour are viewed. Psychologists were quoted as saying: ‘There is an increasingly prevalent view in society that people who do not fit a particular environment must have something wrong with them.’ The briefing was produced in preparation for the DECP’s annual conference being held in early January, when the DECP ‘medicalisation working group’ will publish a position paper and professional practice guidelines on the diagnosis and management of ADHD. It comes after Pulse found GPs were struggling to refer children with behavioural or emotional problems for proper assessment at CAMHS following cuts to child mental health budgets, amid plans to make even further cutbacks.

This study reveals that over 9% of all cigarettes consumed in Europe in 2016 were illegal. Amounting to 48 billion cigarettes, these represent more than the total volume purchased legally in France, costing governments as much as €10.2 billion in lost tax revenues. Despite the sustained threat, the report also shows that efforts by law enforcement contributed to an overall decline in the consumption of illegal cigarettes in Europe, from 9.8% of total consumption in 2015 to 9.1% in 2016. Additionally, ‘positive macroeconomic factors and a stable pricing environment' have contributed to reducing demand for illicit products. Key insights of the report: - 48.3 billion counterfeit and contraband cigarettes were consumed in Europe in 2016, depriving governments of as much as €10.2 billion in lost tax revenues. - Illicit consumption declined by 8.9% between 2015 and 2016, the largest single-year drop in 3 years. - Ukraine replaced Belarus as the largest single source of illicit cigarettes, accounting for 12% of total counterfeit and contraband flows. - Five countries (France, Poland, UK, Germany and Italy) accounted for over 62% of all illegal consumption in Europe. - Ongoing work by law enforcement and tighter border controls have contributed to reducing the supply of illegal cigarettes into the EU. The independent study was commissioned by RUSI with the quantitative data supplied by KPMG through their annual Project SUN report, which investigates the scale of the illicit cigarette trade in the EU, Norway and Switzerland. This year, for the first time, RUSI has provided additional qualitative research, bringing a new dimension to the study. RUSI received funding for the study from British American Tobacco, Imperial Tobacco and Philip Morris International. The additional qualitative research from RUSI reveals how organised crime groups engaged in the illicit cigarette trade face considerably lower risks compared to other forms of crime. Across Europe, law enforcement has typically focused on more visible criminal activity – particularly drug trafficking – which is perceived to pose a more immediate threat. Meanwhile, the profits to be made can be just as significant as those attached to higher-risk crime. With low production costs, illicit cigarettes are lightweight and easy to transport, yet retain a high sale value and consistent consumer demand. Following an established and rigorous quantitative methodology, KPMG conducted a range of statistical analyses for each of the countries studied. These examine the prevalence of illicit cigarette consumption in each country, the origins of non-domestic inflows, the destinations of outflows, as well as the main brands involved. This year, RUSI has provided analysis on the organised crime dynamics underpinning the trends revealed by the data. The research draws on interviews with law enforcement, industry and academic experts, as well as operational fieldwork in five countries – Greece, Italy, Poland, Romania and Spain. Combining these methodologies has enabled RUSI to provide additional context to the trends revealed by the quantitative analysis, highlighting the organised crime practices underpinning the data. When considered together, the findings offer detailed insight into the true scale and nature of the illicit cigarette market across Europe, as well as the wider organised crime dynamics fueling this trade. A clear understanding of these issues is crucial to inform the development of effective responses.

hypnosec writes: In a first kind of discovery in decades, researchers have created a new class of hybrid sound waves that are gentle enough to be used in biomedical devices. Known as "surface reflected bulk waves", the new class of sound waves are a hybrid of bulk waves and surface waves and have been created by a team at RMIT University in Melbourne, Australia. According to the team the new class of sound waves have already proved their worth in delivering vaccines and other drugs directly to the lung and are hopeful that their creation could lead to a revolution in stem cell therapy. As Dr Amgad Rezk, from RMIT's Micro/Nano Research Laboratory, explains, they have already dramatically improved the efficiency of an innovative new "nebuliser" that could deliver vaccines and other drugs directly to the lung in as little as 30 seconds [study abstract]. Researchers are hopeful that their work opens up the possibility of using stem cells more efficiently for treating lung disease enabling them to nebulise stem cells straight into a specific site within the lung to repair damaged tissue and this could be a real game changer for stem cell treatment in lungs as well as other organs.

Sedona big rig accidents are among the roughly 2,700 trucking collisions that happen in the state of Arizona each year, according to reports from the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT). A recent study done by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) sampled 963 semi truck collisions and reported that these accidents resulted in nearly 250 deaths and more than 1,650 injuries. According to the study, nearly 80 percent of big rig collisions involve semi trucks pulling at least one tractor trailer and just shy of 75 percent involved a collision between a semi truck and another, smaller vehicle. In Sedona, around 200 car crashes happen every year, and statistics indicate that around 55 people sustain moderate to serious injuries. How Motorists Can Avoid a Sedona Big Rig Accident Many motorists become involved in a Sedona big rig accident because they overestimate the abilities of the truck driver to see them, to maneuver quickly, and to slow down. Motorists can protect themselves from becoming a victim in a serious injury or fatality crash with a semi truck by following a few simple safety tips. - Make an effort to make yourself visible to the driver — if you can’t see the driver in the mirrors on the sides of the truck, it is likely that the driver cannot see you. - If you see a big rig approaching an intersection with its right blinker on, do not pass it on the right. - Never cut off a big rig. - Provide four seconds of distance in dry conditions and a minimum of six seconds in wet conditions between your vehicle and the semi truck in front of you. Even if you do everything you can to protect yourself from a serious Sedona big rig accident, you may still be involved in and injured in a collision, and you will need help from a skilled Arizona tractor trailer crash injury attorney. At Breyer Law Offices, P.C. we help injury victims in big rig collisions get fair compensation for their injuries, medical expenses, car repairs, lost income and other damages by proving negligence on the part of the driver or trucking company. If a truck driver has injured you in a collision, contact the Husband and Wife Law Team now.

How To Maintain Your Rainwater Harvesting System - Rooftops - Rooftops should be cleaned regularly to avoid contamination of the runoff. During dry weather, dust, leaves, animal excrement and dead insects accumulate on the roof. Make sure that the roof is cleaned before the rainy season starts, followed by a monthly check to keep it clean. - Overhanging Branches - Check that branches overhanging the roof are regularly trimmed back. - Gutters - Ensure that the gutters are free from leaves - consider installing gutter mesh. - Pre-Filtration - Regularly check the pre-filtration device/s to ensure that it is free from leaves and that rainwater can pass through. - Tank Screen - If there is a tank screen below the lid of the tank, clean it if full of debris. - First Flush Diverter - If a first flush diverter is installed, check and clean it out on a monthly basis. Ensure the diverter is dripping out sufficiently to reset the system. - Keeping your tank Clean - Inspect the inside of the tank every 3 months to make sure that leaf litter has not built up in the bottom of the tank. A properly designed system should not allow leaves and other material to get into the tank. - Water Quality – Please remember that water collected from a roof will not be clean. If the intent is to use the rainwater for drinking purposes, consult an installer with experience in installing water filtration systems. For irrigation purposes however, the water would be perfect.

BOSTON — It’s long been the Holy Grail of communications: technology that not only maximizes privacy, but also reveals when a message had been intercepted or copied. The quest began in antiquity, with encryption and with the humble envelope — which not only kept out prying eyes but also showed if a message had been opened by someone other than its intended recipient. Despite centuries of innovation, today’s methods for secure communication are basically the same — and in some ways are even more vulnerable, given how easy it is to copy, store, and search electronic data. Scientists say a solution for truly private, tamper-free digital communication is underway, and should be commercially viable within a decade. For theoretical physicists, the solution has already existed for several decades, but the technology needs refining before it’s available on a mass scale across the internet. Still, the pieces of this ultra-secure, high-speed communications web are beginning to take shape in labs around the world. The system is based on quantum physics, and more specifically on the concept of “entanglement.” Entanglement is a topic that even hardened scientists discuss with a degree of wonder. “It’s quite mysterious, in fact,” said Félix Bussières, a senior researcher in the Group of Applied Physics at the University of Geneva in Switzerland. Physicists have long struggled to come up with metaphors and analogies to describe entanglement, which is so hard to actually wrap the mind around that even Albert Einstein gave up and settled for calling it “spooky.” It involves creating two photons (particles of light) that, while independent of each other and free to travel long distances apart, are still tightly interrelated, almost as if they are not two separate photons but one indivisible photon pair. As photons travel, they spin; each part of the entangled photon pair spins in the exact opposite direction from the other. If something happens that causes either of the pair to change its spin, the other instantaneously changes its spin to compensate. Entangled photons act like a tripwire for any outside tampering — which is what makes a quantum internet so secure. In other terms, “quantum mechanics tell us that if you look at a quantum state you perturb it,” wrote Thomas Jennewein, an associate professor at the Institute for Quantum Computing and in the physics and astronomy department of Ontario's University of Waterloo, in the institute’s 2013 annual report. (If you want to read more on the science, start by looking up the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle and the Schrödinger’s cat thought experiment.) The good and bad of the quantum internet So in the ideal case, wiretapping a quantum message system is impossible, Bussières said, because the wiretap will disturb the system, and the disturbance can be detected by the sender and recipient. “The principle is perfectly secure,” Bussières said. “One can use in principle the quantum properties of light ... to ultimately cipher communication ... in a way that is ... provably unbreakable.” This now works in the lab. It has even gone commercial: There is a small industry doing what is called quantum-key distribution — using quantum methods to generate encryption keys that are substantially more secure than more conventional ones. But the keys can only be shared across relatively small distances, no more than about 125 miles of optical fiber. More from GlobalPost: NSA eyes encryption-breaking 'quantum' machine The challenge is that the technology depends on photons (instead of electrons), and photons attenuate, or lose, their momentum over distance. It also means that quantum connections are quite slow (about one megabit per second, Bussières said) compared to standard internet communications speeds. That’s why the technology is being used for keys instead of entire messages. And as such, while messages with quantum keys are more secure than others, they can still be monitored and copied for storage and later cracking by hackers or spies. Quantum-key distribution could be poised for widespread commercialization right away, Bussières said, if technological advances threatened the security of conventional electronic encryption. “If we want to go beyond these distances” with actual quantum connections, “other technologies are being intensely researched around the world,” he said. It would take several years to develop quantum-enabled devices that are small enough, cheap enough, and efficient enough to be mass-produced and widely used, “but considering the amount of research put in that direction, there is a great chance that it will become a reality,” Bussières said. For nerds: solving the quantum quandary To transform quantum communications from a lab project to a commercial application, three major approaches are in development: wavelength optimization, quantum repeaters, and satellite connections. Scientists say the progress is encouraging, in part because much of the research involves adapting existing, conventional optical-communications gear to quantum uses, rather than inventing all-new equipment. First, it’s not enough to simply connect photon-entanglement sources and detectors to opposite ends of optical-fiber cables. Because eventually photons attenuate — getting absorbed or scattering away from their detectors — even non-quantum-carrying fibers need help to keep the signal alive across long distances. Steven Olmschenk, an associate professor of physics at Denison University in Ohio, is working to lengthen the distance entangled photons can travel in optical fiber. While previously he had also been working on quantum repeaters at the Joint Quantum Institute, he and others realized they were researching themselves into a bit of a corner. Olmschenk’s research focuses on taking existing capabilities for UV quantum communications, and adapting them to infrared transmission and reception. It has only been a couple of years, though, and he told GlobalPost that while he is optimistic, he does not yet have any results to report. If he is successful, he and others will also have to translate into UV the accomplishments of other researchers figuring out how to extend signals in other ways. Bussières is working to improve quantum repeaters, which combine a photon detector, a quantum memory, and a photon source so that when a quantum signal needs to be transmitted, say 600 miles, that trip can be split by repeaters into shorter segments with less attenuation. But for distances (or geographic features) too large to handle usefully with optical fiber, there is another option: sending quantum signals by satellite. Jennewein, of the Institute for Quantum Computing, is on that task. He and his team have set their sights on sending entangled photons to satellites in low Earth orbit, likely somewhere around 300 to 360 miles above the ground. At present, open-air quantum transmissions have been achieved at around 100 miles, using transmitters and receivers that are very precisely aligned. (This gets harder when involving a satellite moving 15,000 miles per hour.) Jennewein’s current work covers several aspects of the puzzle, including aiming photons accurately at distant receivers that are moving, determining how much attenuation will happen in the atmosphere as it thins at higher altitudes, and improving detection of the weak signals that will arrive. One crucial challenge has not yet been undertaken: Because quantum sources need to be smaller and more energy-efficient before they are ready to fly in space, nobody has yet sent a quantum signal from a satellite back to Earth. Other efforts, which would expand bandwidth over those extended distances, are also in the works. "Quantum dots," nanocrystals that conduct electricity, can simplify and even automate the process of emitting photons with particular entanglements on demand, which could help increase transmission rates, as would using light from LEDs instead of lasers. And repeaters capable of handling multiple quantum signals simultaneously would speed things up as well. But the crucial part is building the connections that can span the world so that people can, it is hoped, finally communicate with complete privacy.

Lately, I have been fascinated by mountain climbing. I am reading every book that I can find on the subject. As I sat down to write this review, I found the mountain climbing as a metaphor for enterprise design sticking with me. Milan Guenther’s book Intersection does an excellent job of showing us the view of enterprise design from the top of the mountain. Yet, I came away from reading it without the necessary lessons one gains from actually climbing to the summit. On page 183, the author seems to reveal the why of what we’re reading: “The intent of the Enterprise Design approach is to capture the enterprise in both design context and subject in a holistic fashion. To envision a future state beyond the isolated problem setting, designers need to be aware of the enterprise context it is embedded in…to develop conceptual models of the enterprise, to capture details that are necessary and useful during the design process by looking at the enterprise from a particular viewpoint.” However, what follows is light on specifics for this conceptual modeling, either by example or application of this framework. I was delighted to see that the author presents concepts similar to those found in Peter Checkland’s Soft System Methodology (SSM). In Checkland’s methodology, a design project must look at the enterprise as a larger system comprised of smaller systems. “Basically, all human endeavors have reached a level of scale and complexity that makes them interdependent on an ecosystem of interrelated organizations and technology.” (p18) SSM also finds that developers are often asked to solve the wrong problems and that designers often find themselves in non-design roles. To avoid these problems, SSM also promotes an enhanced discovery stage, cross-discipline communication, and concept modeling to ensure that all viewpoints are captured. In Intersection, Guenther’s foundation is that there are new kinds of information systems–people, processes, content management applications, network– that are smarter, pervasive, embedded, and ubiquitous. These systems are modular, often co-created, open (sourced) and interconnected, ubiquitous and mobile, intelligent and adaptive. They require a new approach. Intersection is in three major segments: Part 1: Design Enterprise–This section presents those concepts most similar to SSM. Part 2: Enterprise Design Framework–This section is the most theoretical, making it difficult to rearticulate the exact nature of the author’s framework. Part 3: Enterprise Design Approach–Here the author delivers the most practical application of his framework by mapping action to problem-specifics. Gerd Waloszek has done Olympian work of synopsizing Intesection’s 463 pages in his SAP Design Guild Review of Intersection, with my gratitude for not having to repeat this labor. The Enterprise Design Framework (part 2) is a connective framework that sees integrative or design thinking focused on connecting different domains, problem spaces, and viewpoints. To accomplish, it promotes: A focus on the big picture over core discipline challenges A design scope that expands to include visuals, interactive systems, and service, and which continues to expand. The design of (signs, objects, interaction, systems) that become the building blocks of an enterprise-minded design. “Design connects the enterprise with its cultural environment, and leads to a discourse on a meaningful, viable and feasible future.” (p 78.) I would have liked the author to drill a bit further into this and provide some detail or examples of the meaningful, viable, and feasible future that would result from the application of his framework. Content strategy and management fares less well with the author’s seeming viewpoint that content’s design goal is to merely enhance the meaning of content. Surely, that cannot be its only purpose. As @mikeatherton said at UX Cambridge 2013 “Content is the whole damned point” and so should exist beyond service to design or brand messaging. The subject of the enterprise, its “aboutness,” exists long before design emerges. It does not seem rational to me that all other elements serve design. The enterprise content management industry will also take issue with the author’s generalization that “today content elements are only seldom regarded as assets for a potential enterprise-wide use” (p 171). The author then goes on to take enterprises to task for ignoring the “…mass of potentially relevant content lying asleep in archived email threads” (p. 171). Not only do these concepts run contrary to core content strategy beliefs, they are not problems solved through application of the framework. This is a beautifully designed book with visually segmented content, headings, and color separation. The At a Glance sections that end each chapter are helpful in retaining core concepts presented. Part 3: Chapter 9, where the author directly applies the Enterprise Design Framework along with specifics that illuminate its seven phases: Prepare (getting started) Discover (explore the problem space) Define (develop a solution approach) Ideate (give form to the solution components) Validate (prototyping for simulation and testing) Implement (start the production and development) Deliver (deploy to begin the transformation) Each state is accompanied by state-specific activities, challenges, and typical techniques. It is here that the author’s convention of big picture components (identity, architecture, experience) and anatomy components (actions, touchpoints, services, and content) have better context and do not seem forced as in the chapters that precede it. The VDA case study on p 176 and Instagram case study in Part 3 are the best at presenting a detail-oriented, mapped application of concepts to chapter topic. The Merely OK References to design, experience, and the enterprise are as high-level concepts throughout the book. There are too many obtuse, sweeping statements that make the reader stop and think “Say what?” instead of “Tell me more.” For example, from page 212: “It is the user who attributes function.” Here I said to myself, “Say what? It is more like the user anticipates an outcome of function that is based on emotion, environment, or mental model.” There is an emphasis on function modeling, with no examples or direction on how to accomplish this. Many of the case studies do not do a good job of illuminating abstract thinking and concepts discussed prior, especially for the more esoteric concepts. The table of contents in front and back of book index are beautifully designed yet not functional for re-finding specific concepts represented in the book. For example, the index lists a single reference to relevance for the entire book found on pages 225-226. Going to page 225, there is a section “RELEVANCE: placing a “spotlight” on a subset of objects which are important to the enterprise with regard to the business objectives, the people being addressed, and the structural context.” And, that’s it for relevance for the entire book, according to the Index. White text on black background is not a fun reading experience. This is a thoughtful tome, dense with deep, contemplative thinking on enterprise design. It has a rightful place on the bookshelves for designers that are intrigued by the challenge of cross-discipline collaboration. However, designers looking for a better understanding of technology will be disappointed, and technologists looking for an understanding of the design world will be baffled. In my armchair mountain climbing, I came across what has turned out to be a great life lesson from a climb master, the individual who remains at basecamp as the one to give the go/no go on summiting: “Success is not reaching the summit (of the mountain). Success is getting back to basecamp alive.” I am glad to have my well-thumbed, heavily underlined copy of Intersection on my shelf as a reminder of the importance of the view from the mountain top. Now I need many of the Rosenfeld Media books to tell me how to get back to basecamp.

Assessing the Efficacy of NPDES Regulation: Permit Writers' Decisions, Plants' Responses, and Impact of Pollutants on Water Quality This study provides indirect evidence that the Clean Water Act (CWA), implemented through the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) regulation, has been effective in terms of inducing certain 'best practice' responses from the different 'agents' involved in water pollution and its regulation. Given that cost benefit analyses of the CWA have yielded favorable conclusions, the chapters in this dissertation collect empirical evidence on whether NPDES permit writers pay attention to downstream water quality, if plants are sensitive to ambient pollution, and finally if pollutant discharges have an impact on downstream quality. Previous empirical studies incorporating ambient water quality in effluent limit or abatement choice, or pollutant inputs as a determinant of downstream water quality could not be found. These intermediate relationships are studied with Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) as the primary pollutant and hence Dissolved Oxygen (DO) as the main indicator of water quality. Monthly panel data comprising a sample of 100 plants from Maryland, Virginia and Pennsylvania and 79 pairs of (downstream and upstream) water quality monitoring stations over a period of about 14 years, from 1990 to February 2004, was used. Positive evidence on efficacy of the NPDES regulation is found in all the three aspects investigated. On how regulation is implemented: if average water quality prevailing during past permit cycle is increased by one percent, then limits on BOD concentration (quantity) in the 'new' cycle would be made less stringent by 0.617 (0.322) percent. On how polluters respond to downstream water quality: if average DO prevailing during past three years is reduced by one percent, then concentration (quantity) discharges relative to effluent limits is reduced by 1.301 (1.558) percent. Finally, on how pollutant discharges from point sources have an impact on ambient water quality: if sum of BOD concentration is increased by one mg/L, then downstream net of upstream DO is reduced by 0.005 mg/L.

Synod: On the Indissolubility of Marriage, Communion, Cohabitation and Responsible Parenthood Extract from staff, Zenit, Vatican City, 9 October 2014 The seventh general congregation of the synod of bishops, which took place this morning, Thursday, was divided into two phases: the first consisting of further general debate on the theme of the previous afternoon, “Difficult Pastoral Situations” (Part II, Chapter 3. Situations in Families / Concerning Unions of Persons of the Same Sex”, and the second regarding the subsequent issue, “The Pastoral Challenges concerning an Openness to Life”. In the first part, therefore, the Assembly continued its reflection on the matter of access to the sacrament of the Eucharist for divorced and remarried persons. Firstly, it re-emphasised the indissoluble nature of marriage, without compromise, based on the fact that the sacramental bond is an objective reality, the work of Christ in the Church. Such a value must be defended and cared for through adequate pre-matrimonial catechesis, so that engaged couples are fully aware of the sacramental character of the bond and its vocational nature. Pastoral accompaniment for couples following marriage would also be useful. At the same time, it was said that it is necessary to look at individual cases and real-life situations, even those involving great suffering, distinguishing for example between those who abandon their spouse and those who are abandoned. The problem exists – this was repeated several times in the Assembly – and the Church does not neglect it. Pastoral care must not be exclusive, of an “all or nothing” type but must instead be merciful, as the mystery of the Church is a mystery of consolation. It was in any case recalled that for divorced and remarried persons, the fact of not having access to the Eucharist does not mean that they are not members of the ecclesial community; on the contrary, it is to be taken into consideration that there exist various responsibilities that may be exercised. Furthermore, the need to simplify and speed up the procedures for the declaration of nullity was underlined (more). Kasper's book: Mercy has been 'criminally neglected,' which is 'catastrophic' Edited Extract from Opinion and Book Review by Thomas Ryan, National Catholic Reporter, 8 October 2014 | Cardinal Walter Kasper's most recent book (Mercy: The Essence Of The Gospel and the Key To Christian Life By Walter Kasper) translated into English (by William Madges) bristles with the claim that mercy has been "criminally neglected" in recent dogmatic theology, a "disappointing, even catastrophic" situation. This neglect has not been universal. St. John XXIII sought "the medicine of mercy" over "that of severity" in inaugurating the Second Vatican Council. St. John Paul II dedicated his second encyclical, Dives in Misericordia, to it and canonized St. Faustina Kowalska, known for her popular image of and devotion to Divine Mercy. The current pope also values mercy. During the most recent conclave and while still Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio, he received a copy of this book from Kasper and remarked, "Ah mercy! This is the name of our God." At his first Angelus, Pope Francis announced, as the cover declares, "This book has done me so much good." Mercy, Francis said, "changes the world … makes the world less cold and more just. We need to understand properly this mercy of God," a task at which this book succeeds (more). Extract from Andrew Hamilton, Eureka Street, 8 October 2014 Pope Francis is a leader out of his time. Generally the style and vision of governance in the Catholic Church correspond to those current in the broader society. He is out of sync. That has inevitably led many to ask whether his vision and style of governance will endure in the Catholic Church. Some indications may be found during the current Synod on the family.........The oddity of Pope Francis is that at a time when national governments have become increasingly authoritarian and have emphasised narrowly defined national identity and interests and strong boundaries, he has advocated local initiative and constantly blurred boundaries in his action and his speech. He sees the identity of the Catholic Church to lie in its going out to the margins.The question arises then is whether the Pope’s vision of mission and governance will shape the Catholic future, or whether his image of church leaders coming back from the badlands smelling like lost sheep will give way to sheep waiting in line in the designated paddock where their shepherds can feed them on sheeply food and protect them from danger. Sociologically, you would have to bet on the latter. But it is never a done deal. The current church Synod on the Family will be illuminating. It will show how far Pope Francis’ open and inclusive style can be reflected in the processes of the Synod which have become instruments of control. More subtly, because the family is a microcosm and an image of society and of church, the way the family is imagined at the Synod will also reveal what vision of the church is operative. In sombre times we would expect the Synod to focus on an idealised, true Christian family consisting of a husband and wife of faith duly married, living prayerful lives and blessed with children. The threats to this ideal would be identified and ways of sustaining it named. This would find expression in a high theology of Christian marriage and family life.......Discussion of the Synod has focused on allowing divorced and remarried Catholics to receive communion. That is mostly a problem for the devout, often resolved by pastoral commonsense. But it points to the larger reality: that at Mass, the place where Catholics mostly meet, a strict application of church rules would exclude most baptised Catholics from full participation. That underlines the importance of the question Pope Francis has posed: how can people, on the borders of the Catholic Church or beyond, find from Catholics encouragement and support in their messy lives? In asking that question so insistently he is a man for all times. (read full article here) Extracts from Tim Wallace, Eureka Street 6 October 2014 Last month Australia’s longest-running weekly newspaper, The Record, won a design excellence award. It was, however, somewhat belated recognition for the Perth Catholic newspaper, established in 1874, from its peers in the Australasian Catholic Press Association. The last edition of the paper rolled off the presses in July.........Appeasing both clerical and bureaucratic interests poses a considerable hurdle to producing an interesting, relevant newspaper. Add to the negotiation the raw differences between progressive and conservative tendencies within clergy and laity, with what one camp esteems as editorial heroism being reviled by the other. It is possible to produce journalism that satisfies both groups – take, for example the work of John Allen, the long-time Vatican correspondent of the National Catholic Reporter, a US title regarded as theologically liberal, whose reportage was also held in high regard by conservatives. But what distinguished Allen’s work was the epitome of good journalism – a rigorous adherence to accuracy, fairness and balance along with a deep understanding of his subject – with a scope unencumbered by the pettier considerations of institutional politics. Doing the same within diocesan-owned press, where the bishop is the publisher, is harder. Along with all the above tensions are existential questions over the proper function of a Catholic newspaper. Does it exist to report news or proclaim the good news, acting primarily as instrument of evangelisation? Should it seek to provide a perspective on the the big issues, covering global and national news, or devote itself to reflecting the life of the local community, covering parish fetes, ordinations, official appointments, obituaries and the like? Certain compromises have been glaringly evident. It would be difficult to cite one official Church publication in Australia that has, for example, done more than a perfunctory job in covering the issue of clerical sex abuse. Generally the issue has been politely avoided, aside from endorsement of the official line. For ordinary church-goers the deep disconnect between the coverage of the issue between their own religious and the secular media must be bewildering, feeding the very feelings of embattlement and persecution that Cardinal George Pell conceded to the royal commission had contributed to the Church’s institutional failure to face up to the problem. Given the general acknowledgement of the effect the sex-abuse crisis has had on mass attendance and collection-plate contributions, it would be hard to conclude there has not also been a hit on the credibility of the Catholic press. Maintaining relevance in the light of experiences that show trust must be earned rather than assumed will take more than technical capability, slick headlines or social media sharing buttons (more). Vatican City. A papal commission on child protection will be expanding its nine-member panel to include more experts and another survivor of clerical abuse.The Commission for the Protection of Minors, which Pope Francis established in December, is now awaiting the pope's approval of members' latest efforts as they aim to lay out a pastoral approach to helping victims and prevent future abuse. Marie Collins, a commission member and survivor of clerical abuse, told The Associated Press on Monday that the specially appointed group has agreed on its provisional statutes and finalized a list of potential new members, adding experts from other countries and disciplines as well as including another survivor. Currently the commission includes: U.S. Cardinal Sean O'Malley of Boston, head of the commission; U.S. Fr. Robert Oliver, commission secretary; Collins and six, mostly European, experts in mental health, civil and church law, and moral theology. The group, which had its third meeting Oct. 4-5 at the Vatican, is awaiting the pope's final approval of their proposals (more). Speakers tell pope, synod that parishes should welcome same-sex couples. Edited Extract from Francis X Rocca, Catholic News Service, National Catholic Reporter, Monday 5 October 2014 Vatican City. A(n Australian) married couple told Pope Francis and the Synod of Bishops on the family that Catholic parishes should welcome same-sex couples, following the example of parents who invite their son and his male partner to their home for Christmas. "The church constantly faces the tension of upholding the truth while expressing compassion and mercy. Families face this tension all the time," Ron and Mavis Pirola of Sydney told the synod Monday. "Take homosexuality as an example. Friends of ours were planning their Christmas family gathering when their gay son said he wanted to bring his partner home, too. They fully believed in the church's teachings and they knew their grandchildren would see them welcome the son and his partner into the family. Their response could be summed up in three [sic] words, 'He is our son.' ". "What a model of evangelization for parishes as they respond to similar situations in their neighborhood," the Pirolas said........The couple called for emphasizing the positive dimension of Catholic teaching on sexuality. "Marriage is a sexual sacrament with its fullest expression in sexual intercourse. We believe that until married couples come to reverence sexual union as an essential part of their spirituality it is extremely hard to appreciate the beauty of teachings such as those of 'Humanae Vitae,' " they said in reference to the 1968 encyclical by Pope Paul VI that reaffirmed the church's teaching on contraception. "We need new ways and relatable language to touch people's hearts," the Pirolas said (more). Vatican's abuse panel plans to include more experts, another survivor Extract from Carol Glatz Catholic News Service, National Catholic Reporter,Tuesday 7 October 2014 Vatican City. A papal commission on child protection will be expanding its nine-member panel to include more experts and another survivor of clerical abuse.The Commission for the Protection of Minors, which Pope Francis established in December, is now awaiting the pope's approval of members' latest efforts as they aim to lay out a pastoral approach to helping victims and prevent future abuse. Marie Collins, a commission member and survivor of clerical abuse, told The Associated Press on Monday that the specially appointed group has agreed on its provisional statutes and finalized a list of potential new members, adding experts from other countries and disciplines as well as including another survivor. Currently the commission includes: U.S. Cardinal Sean O'Malley of Boston, head of the commission; U.S. Fr. Robert Oliver, commission secretary; Collins and six, mostly European, experts in mental health, civil and church law, and moral theology. The group, which had its third meeting Oct. 4-5 at the Vatican, is awaiting the pope's final approval of their proposals (more). Dear Brothers and Sisters, Good morning. This morning, we opened the Extraordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops with the Eucharistic celebration in Saint Peter’s Basilica. Together with me, the Synodal Fathers, who have come from all over the world, will live two intense weeks of listening and discussion, made fruitful by prayer, on the topic “The Pastoral Challenges on the Family in the Context of Evangelization.” Today, the Word of God presents the image of the vine as symbol of the people that the Lord has chosen. Like a vine, the people require so much care; they require a patient and faithful love. In this way, God works with us, and in the same way, we pastors are called to do the same. Taking care of the family is also a way of working in the Lord’s vineyard, that it will bear fruits of the Kingdom of God (cf. Matthew 21:33-43). However, for the family to be able to walk well, with trust and hope, it must be nourished by the Word of God...................I invite all to support the works of the Synod with prayer, invoking the maternal intercession of the Virgin Mary. At this moment, we associate ourselves spiritually with all those at the Shrine of Pompey, elevating the traditional “Supplication” to Our Lady of the Rosary. May she obtain peace for families and for the whole world! (more) Vatican City. A(n Australian) married couple told Pope Francis and the Synod of Bishops on the family that Catholic parishes should welcome same-sex couples, following the example of parents who invite their son and his male partner to their home for Christmas. "The church constantly faces the tension of upholding the truth while expressing compassion and mercy. Families face this tension all the time," Ron and Mavis Pirola of Sydney told the synod Monday. "Take homosexuality as an example. Friends of ours were planning their Christmas family gathering when their gay son said he wanted to bring his partner home, too. They fully believed in the church's teachings and they knew their grandchildren would see them welcome the son and his partner into the family. Their response could be summed up in three [sic] words, 'He is our son.' ". "What a model of evangelization for parishes as they respond to similar situations in their neighborhood," the Pirolas said........The couple called for emphasizing the positive dimension of Catholic teaching on sexuality. "Marriage is a sexual sacrament with its fullest expression in sexual intercourse. We believe that until married couples come to reverence sexual union as an essential part of their spirituality it is extremely hard to appreciate the beauty of teachings such as those of 'Humanae Vitae,' " they said in reference to the 1968 encyclical by Pope Paul VI that reaffirmed the church's teaching on contraception. "We need new ways and relatable language to touch people's hearts," the Pirolas said (more). Pope opens Synod criticizing 'bad shepherds,' those who 'thwart' God Extract from Joshua J. McElwee, National Catholic Reporter, Sunday 5 October 2014 Vatican City. Pope Francis opened a worldwide meeting of Catholic bishops Sunday -- a possible landmark of his papacy -- by warning against "bad shepherds" who unduly burden the faithful and who "thwart" God by not being guided by the Holy Spirit. Francis was speaking in a homily during the opening Mass for the meeting, known as a Synod and focusing on modern struggles of family life, in St. Peter's Basilica. Referring to the Mass readings for the day and to the prophet Ezekiel’s warning about shepherds who care for themselves and not their sheep, the pontiff said some shepherds become tempted by "greed for money and power." "To satisfy this greed bad shepherds lay intolerable burdens on the shoulders of others, which they themselves do not lift a finger to move," said Francis. The pontiff also laid out clearly what the Synod is not to do. "Synod Assemblies are not meant to discuss beautiful and clever ideas, or to see who is more intelligent," said the pontiff. "They are meant to better nurture and tend the Lord's vineyard, to help realize his dream, his loving plan for his people." Francis' words Sunday are likely to be met with much speculation over what direction the pontiff hopes the Synod, in which some 190 bishops and cardinals will discuss family life topics in closed-door sessions Oct. 6-19, will take (more). An open letter to those participating in the synod on the family Extract from Michael E. Allsopp*, National Catholic Reporter Saturday 4 Oct, 2014 "Be not afraid ... " Reformers to Pope Francis: 'Don’t wait for the bishops' Edited Extract from Ines Sans Martin, Crux, Friday 3 October 2014 ROME — A Catholic reform group meeting in Rome this week – a group that says it represents more than 100 organizations around the world — had a simple message for the Synod of Bishops that opens Sunday: “Listen to us.” American Rene Reid, president of Catholic Church Reform International, told Crux that the 100 organizations supporting reform have different opinions and methods, but they all have a common goal: “A Church that’s open, where everyone has a voice, the hierarchy, the priests and the laity.” In Reid’s opinion, every baptized person should have a voice in the Church, because “no one has a corner on the discernment of the Holy Spirit.” The group held a two-day conference in Rome as a way of supporting Pope Francis. According to Reed, whose life partner is an Episcopalian priest, it’s clear through the pope’s words and actions that he wants to change the Church. “We’re not a rebel group, we’re not protesters,” Reid said. In the run-up to the Synod, the group is sending a letter to Pope Francis requesting a review of the arrangements for the summit. “[We want] to ensure that there is within its membership a truly adequate representation from ordinary and diverse Catholic families, with appropriate provision for them to share their views, be heard, and to have a vote, the letter says (more). Extracts from Joshua J McElwee, National Catholic Reporter, Friday 3 October 2014 Vatican City Days before the opening of a global meeting of bishops to address family life -- an event that could be the signal moment of Pope Francis' papacy -- the Vatican stressed the "original and innovative" nature of the meeting but faced tough questions about the pervasive opacity surrounding the event...............speaking alongside Vatican spokesman Jesuit Fr. Federico Lombardi, (Synod Secretary General Cardinal) Baldisseri said information about the upcoming Oct. 5-19 meeting would be limited, with no release of the bishops' texts or summaries of those texts, or even the names of those who are speaking.............Instead of providing texts or summaries of the discussions during the synod, the Vatican will host daily briefings with Lombardi, who will be present during the synod meetings and is expected to brief reporters in Italian on general themes discussed each day. He will be assisted by three priests and one woman who will summarize his remarks in English, Spanish, French, and German.Lombardi said Friday he would strive in his briefings to "underline the interventions that have happened in the morning" and to give "an effective feeling of what has happened in the room in the diverse languages with the diverse fathers." (more) Catholics looking to global thinktank for touch of reality Abstract of Kristina Keneally Opinion Piece, Sydney Morning Herald, Friday 3 October 2014 In this Opinion Piece ahead of the Family Synod in Rome commencing next Sunday Kristina Keneally reflects on the choices already made by many Catholics on Famiily matters. She says that Pope Francis has "gone out of his way to make the point that the Church needs to stop legalistically obsessing about marriage and sex and instead focus on welcoming and supporting people who love one another authentically" adding that she's not so sure the Vatican bureaucracy or the rest of the Church hierarchy agrees. Read the Opinion Piece here. The synod without a script Extract from Massimo Faggioli, The Tablet, 2 October 2014 As the Synod on the Family opens tomorrow, the fifth in our series looks at some of the 253 participants from around the world, and examines the gamble – perhaps a defining moment of his pontificate – Pope Francis has taken in encouraging open dialogue and debate. pope francis’ pontificate has two faces. Mercy is one. Acting tough in cleaning up the Roman Curia is the other. The Extraordinary Synod on the “Pastoral Challenges of the Family in the Context of Evangelisation” opens soon after the Vatican’s indictment of criminal proceedings for abusing minors against the former nuncio to the Dominican Republic, Jozef Wesolowski, and the firing of the Bishop of Ciudad del Este in Paraguay, Rogelio Livieres Plano, accused of protecting an abusive priest. When the Synod begins to debate matters of doctrine and church discipline we will begin to see how this mix of mercy and ruthlessness plays out. Its opening tomorrow is the first leg of a long journey that will include a year of further consultation throughout the Church and then an ordinary general Synod on the Family in October 2015 (more). Image: The Tablet Catholic Church Reform International, an umbrella coalition of 100 Second Vatican Council renewal groups from 65 countries around the world, will journey to Rome on Thursday and Friday to support Pope Francis and his extraordinary Synod of Bishops on the family. But going to meetings isn't all members of the group do. In preparation for this event, they also wrote a public letter to Pope Francis, asking him to include representation from ordinary and diverse Catholic families with "appropriate provision for them to share their views, be heard, and to have a vote." While in Rome, the group will hold a Forum on the Family called "Listening to the Faithful" to share the results of the regional reports it has collected on the subject from around the world. Together there in Rome, members of the group will then deliver to the synod the testimonies of these groups as well as their insights and suggestions.............................This group, Catholic Church Reform, is there breathing one spirit, calling with one voice for the single issue that unites us all: the commitment of all facets of the church for the revival of the spirit of renewal in the church. Not just from the people up, but from the top down. That one voice says it all: This meeting is not the gathering of a group of faithless dissenters. This meeting is about faithful listening to the call of the church in Canon 212 that the laity "are free to make known to the pastors of the Church their needs." This group has not gone to Rome to be against anything. When will the clerical church ever understand that? This group has gone to Rome to be for what the church itself called for in Vatican II: It is about the recognition of "the vocation of the laity." There, in full display for all the world to see, they have gone to Rome to take their responsibility to breathe into the church the Holy Spirit who guides them, too (more). Extract from CathNews, Thursday 2 October 2014 Cardinal Raymond Burke has hit out at claims that German Cardinal Walter Kasper “spoke for” Pope Francis when he backed communion for divorced and remarried people, reports The Tablet. Cardinal Burke, Prefect of the Apostolic Signatura, said in a conference call with journalists on Tuesday that he found it “amazing” that Cardinal Kasper claimed to speak for the Pope. “The Pope doesn’t have laryngitis. The Pope is not mute. He can speak for himself. If this is what he wants, he will say so,” Cardinal Burke said. “But for me as a cardinal to say that what I am saying are the words of Pope Francis? That to me is outrageous.” Cardinal Burke added that whatever Francis thinks about a more lenient approach on Communion for remarried Catholics, he cannot change current Church teaching – a view endorsed in the build-up to the Synod by Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, Cardinal Gerhard Müller and Cardinal George Pell, as well as a number of other cardinals. Cardinal Kasper told The Tablet last month that it was his “impression” that the Pope would like to see an “opening” in the area of allowing Communion for divorced and remarried Catholics (more). A place for women in church leadership Extracts from Peter Kirkwood, Eureka Street, 30 September 2014 For two weeks from this Sunday, the much anticipated Synod on the Family will be held in Rome. Those attending include around 150 bishops, some specially appointed clergy, a number of lay experts and 14 married couples, a total of about 250 participants from all corners of the globe. Only the bishops and clergy will have voting rights at the Synod........Of course it is lay Catholics – not the bishops and clergy – who are living contemporary family life, and who will be most affected by Church teachings on the family. It seems obvious their expertise, experience and insights should be central to the upcoming Synod......Several progressive Australian Catholic groups under the umbrella of the Australian Catholic Coalition for Church Renewal made a push for women’s participation in the Synod. They nominated former NSW Labor Premier, Kristina Keneally as a possible participant, but she was not chosen. In this interview, she talks about her hopes and frustrations with the Synod, and more broadly about women’s and lay leadership in the Church (more). Extracts from Robert Mickens, National Catholic Reporter, 29 September 2014 ...............Not everyone was pleased with the pope's effort to take the pulse of the wider church, however. For example, only a few national bishops' conferences around the world made a real attempt to canvass the views of individual Catholics. Instead, most of them seem to have relied on parish priests or heads of deaneries to complete the surveys. Such reticence would seem to belie a discomfort so many of today's bishops have in discussing any type of change in church discipline or practice. Whether that is based on prudence or fear, it certainly stands in stark contrast to Francis' clarion call in Evangelii Gaudium for "a pastoral and missionary conversion which cannot leave things as they presently are" (25).In this apostolic exhortation, the pope says it is even necessary to "re-examine" various "rules or precepts" and "certain customs" when "considering a reform of the Church." This includes a generous, open and merciful attitude toward offering people the sacraments. Quoting St. Ambrose, he writes that the Eucharist "is not a prize for the perfect but a powerful medicine and nourishment for the weak." The pope emphasizes that this belief has "pastoral consequences that we are called to consider with prudence and boldness" (47). This is not nothing! Francis says Evangelii Gaudium is a document with "programmatic significance" -- read: the program of his pontificate. Yet why do so many ordained leaders in the church, those once so eager to quote the previous two popes, simply ignore or downplay its real importance? The surprisingly audacious apostolic exhortation and the launching of the synod questionnaire have been attempts to shake all believers, including the bishops, out of a "tomb psychology" and "spiritual 'desertification.' " But there was yet another attempt to "make a mess" (or, as the pope has said before in Spanish, hacer lío)....................Francis is obviously intent on reintroducing lively conversation in the church, especially among the pastors, those who share pastoral and doctrinal responsibility with him...................In the 12 months between these two (Synod) assemblies, it will be essential for the Catholic faithful, their pastors and theologians (especially those married and non-ordained) to continue the discussions, the conversations and debates. This could replicate, in a somewhat different but no less fruitful way, a dynamic that was essential to the blossoming of Vatican II. Most of the work and developments at that great event were forged outside the aula of St. Peter's Basilica and in between the four sessions (more). A female Catholic theologian has been banned by the Archbishop of St Andrews and Edinburgh from speaking on Church property in his diocese. Acting on instructions from the Vatican’s Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (CDF), Archbishop Leo Cushley has ordered the Edinburgh Circle of the Newman Association to cancel an event at St Catherine’s Convent, Edinburgh, where Professor Tina Beattie was due to speak this month. In his letter, seen by The Tablet, the archbishop wrote: “Professor Beattie is known to have frequently called into question the Church’s teaching. I would therefore ask you to cancel this event, as it may not proceed or be publicised on any Church property in this archdiocese.” The archbishop also uses the letter – dated 11 July but only released this week – to rebuke the association for organising a talk by theologian Joe Fitzpatrick, who has written a book critiquing original sin and seeking to make Genesis compatible with evolution. “I wish to remind you that the Church’s teaching on Original Sin is a dogma of Catholic faith and it is not acceptable that it should be called into question at a public meeting on Church property,” the archbishop wrote, adding that to be told of these events by the CDF “is something of an embarrassment to me”. Archbishop Cushley then asked the Newman Association to take “more care” with their choice of speakers. Soon after receiving the letter the association replied in writing to the archbishop stressing it is “most certainly not in the business of undermining the Catholic Faith”. The group has asked for a meeting with Archbishop Cushley but so far has only been offered one with diocesan officials including Mgr Patrick Burke, one the archdiocese’s vicars-general and formerly of the CDF (more). Edited Extracts from CathNews, 25 September 2014 Pope Francis has appointed a new Archbishop of Chicago, one of the most important sees in the US Church. Archbishop-designate Blase Cupich, 65, formerly the Bishop of Spokane, Washington, will be installed on November 18, reports The Tablet. His appointment to one of the most Catholic states in the US has been interpreted by observers as an indication of Pope Francis’ vision for the American Church.............. An article by Michael Sean Winters said that appointing him would signal a “new day” for the Church. “A native of the Midwest, Cupich is well regarded for handling the sex abuse crisis in Spokane, Washington. Considered one of the brightest bishops, if Pope Francis wants to send the signal that it is a ‘new day’, Cupich is the man,” he wrote. In an interview with the US-based National Catholic Reporter at the weekend Bishop Cupich said that Church leaders “cannot base decisions on a past era where things were different.” He said he intended to “work with the system” but wanted to look for ways “in which things have to move forwards” (more). Photo: Cathnews Vatican Arrests Laicised Former Nuncio Pope Francis Said to Want Case 'Addressed Without Delay' Edited Extracts from Staff Reporter, Zenit, Vatican City, 24 September 2014 The Vatican arrested the Pope's former nuncio to the Dominican Republic on Tuesday, placing the 66-year-old Polish native under house arrest. Józef Wesołowski served as apostolic nuncio in various countries since 1999; he was sent to the Dominican Republic in 2008, where he is accused of having engaged in sexual abuse of minors. He was recalled from the Dominican Republic in 2013. Wesołowski in June was laicized after he was found guilty in canon law proceedings, with the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith handing down the strictest punishment, return to the lay state........."The initiative taken by the judicial departments of Vatican City State is a result of the express desire of the Pope, so that a case so serious and delicate would be addressed without delay, with just and necessary rigor, and with full assumption of responsibility on the part of the institutions that are governed by the Holy See," noted the Vatican statement (more). Head of Vatican court says media is hijacking Synod agenda Extract CathNews, Wednesday 24 September 2014 The head of the Church's highest court, Cardinal Raymond Burke, claims that next month's Synod on the Family has been hijacked by media sources fuelling expectations that impossible changes will be made to Church doctrine, reports CNA. “I don’t think you have to be brilliant to see that the media has, for months, been trying to hijack this Synod,” said Cardinal Burke, Prefect for the Supreme Tribunal of the Apostolic Signatura – the office which, among other things, handles annulment cases in the Church. In particular, the media has been presenting Pope Francis as being in favour of allowing Holy Communion to be distributed to those who are divorced and remarried, and other such propositions, even though this is not the case, he said. The danger, Cardinal Burke continued, is that “the media has created a situation in which people expect that there are going to be these major changes which would, in fact, constitute a change in Church teaching, which is impossible.” (more). Photo: CathNews What if the Pope doesn't have all the answers? Extracts from Noel Connolly, St Columban's Mission Society E-News, Tuesday 23 September 2014 What if the Pope doesn't have all the answers? is a scary question. In 'The Joy of the Gospel' (Apostolic Exhortation, 'Evangelii Gaudium'), Pope Francis has a new and refreshing view of the Pope’s role. He doesn’t believe he should have the answers to all the questions facing local churches. "It is not advisable for the Pope to take the place of local bishops in the discernment of every issue which arises in their territory. In this sense, I am conscious of the need to promote a sound 'decentralization’." ...................Pope Francis’ call for discernment will require a deeper faith and new skills and structures. It will be a challenge to Dioceses and Episcopal Conferences to discern for themselves the signs of the times and plan for the future. We will have to develop new structures for listening, consulting and deciding that involves everyone. This will involve structures such as national and diocesan Synods. At the moment we do not have such structures in the Australian Church. There have only been four national synods in our history and the last one was in 1937. It is mind-bending just to envision the education, experimentation and imagination that will be required to develop truly participative and discerning structures of consultation but it is Francis’ clear call and our present need and it is a worthwhile challenge (more). Fr Noel Connolly SSC is a Columban missionary priest. He is a member of the Columban Mission Institute in Sydney and a lecturer in Missiology at both the Broken Bay Institute and the Catholic Institute of Sydney. Pope names five women to International Theological Commission Extracts from Francis X. Rocca Catholic News Service, National Catholic Reporter, 23 September 2014 Vatican City. Pope Francis, who has said the Catholic church has "not yet come up with a profound theology of womanhood," named five women, a record number, to the International Theological Commission. One of the women is U.S. Mercy Sr. Prudence Allen, former chair of the philosophy department at St. John Vianney Theological Seminary in Denver, now a member of the chaplaincy team at Lancaster University, England. On Tuesday, the Vatican released the names of 30 theologians who will serve a five-year term on the commission. Women have served on the panel since 2004, but, until now, there have never been more than two. The five women appointees also include Australian Tracey Rowland, dean of the John Paul II Institute for Marriage and Family in Melbourne, who is a prominent authority on the theology of Pope Benedict XVI, and Moira Mary McQueen, a Canadian-British citizen who serves as director of the Canadian Catholic Bioethics Institute at the University of St. Michael's College in the University of Toronto.................The International Theological Commission was established in 1969 to study important doctrinal issues as an aid to the pope and to the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. It has produced documents in recent years on such topics as "Christian monotheism and its opposition to violence" and "sensus fidei in the life of the church." (more) Pope names panel to streamline marriage annulment process Extracts from Francis X. Rocca, Catholic News Service Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne, Tuesday 23 September 2014 Two weeks before the start of an extraordinary Synod of Bishops on the family, the Vatican announced the formation of a special commission to reform the process of granting marriage annulments. "The work of the commission will start as soon as possible and will have as its goal to prepare a proposal of reform of the matrimonial process, with the objective of simplifying its procedure, making it more streamlined, and safeguarding the principle of the indissolubility of matrimony," said a Vatican statement Saturday 20 September. The new body's work will address what Pope Francis has identified as a key challenge in the "pastoral care of marriage." ............... Pope Francis related the problem of annulments to the situation of divorced and civilly remarried Catholics, whose predicament he said exemplifies a general need for mercy in the church today. According to church teaching, such Catholics may not receive Communion unless they obtain an annulment of their first, sacramental, marriage or abstain from sexual relations, living with their new partners as "brother and sister." A proposal to allow some divorced and civilly remarried Catholics to receive Communion without meeting either of those conditions, introduced by German Cardinal Walter Kasper at a meeting of the world's cardinals in February, is expected to be one of the most discussed issues at the two-week synod on the family, which opens Sunday 5 October (source). Extracts from Geraldine Doogue, SMH, CathNews, Monday 22 September 2014 As a Sydney Catholic, what am I seeking from Bishop Fisher? First, as Archbishop, he needs to be a pastoral man, a nurturer. He doesn't have to be an avuncular soul like Pope Francis, but revel in drawing lay people in, writes Geraldine Doogue. ...............He should revel in drawing lay people right inside the tent, by recognising their readiness to serve and the talents just waiting to be exploited on behalf of the Church. He should be humble enough to know that only skills from outside the hierarchy will save the Church's reputation and refresh it now in the eyes of modern Australia. He should especially realise how much women are keen to be invited into the venture. They have been the long-term faithful and lament, more than most, the drift they see in their parishes. (more). The Eucharist is not a prize for the perfect, Cardinal Pell Extract from Blog, Fr Peter Day, The Tablet, 19 September 2014 I understand that in the lead up to next month’s Extraordinary Synod of Bishops on the Family, you and a number of your confreres are re-asserting the Church’s longstanding exclusion of divorced and remarried people from Communion. Your foreword to the soon to be published The Gospel of the Family (Professor Stephan Kampowski and Fr Juan Perez-Soba), appears to leave us with little doubt: outsiders are not welcome. As you say, "The sooner the wounded, the lukewarm, and the outsiders realise that substantial doctrinal and pastoral changes are impossible, the more the hostile disappointment (which must follow the reassertion of doctrine) will be anticipated and dissipated." Respectfully, I have a number of questions I’d like to thrash out with you, conscious, of course, that neither of us in our grappling can claim to really know the mind of Christ. (more) Fr Peter Day, priest of Corpus Christi parish, Archdiocese of Canberra and Goulburn, Australia Extract from Joanna Moorhead, published 16/09 in The Tablet, Republished Friday 19 September 2014 Hopes that the forthcoming Synods on the Family will make radical changes to doctrine may be premature, a bishop warned. Bishop Philip Egan of Portsmouth said it was “no secret that many progressive-minded Catholics are expecting fundamental changes in doctrine and discipline” as a result of synods in Rome next month and in October 2015. He also noted that Pope Francis’ desire to have a frank and open discussion about church teaching on family and his desire to show pastoral care of those on the margins had only increased those hopes. Moreover, he said, the media had often drawn attention to the issue of admitting those who had been divorced and remarried to Holy Communion. But, he said, the Pope’s vision of the Synod was “much broader”. “What is at issue is the Christian vision of the family,” Bishop Egan told delegates to the Society for the Protection of Unborn Children (SPUC) at their annual conference earlier this month (more). Church names Bishop Anthony Fisher as Cardinal George Pell's Sydney successor Abstracted from The Age, 9.34pm, Thursday 18 September 2014 Anthony Fisher, Bishop of Parramatta has been appointed the 9th Archbishop of Sydney, and immediately committed the church to "doing better" in responding to victims of sexual abuse by priests and brothers. He replaced Cardinal George Pell who was appointed to a newly created Secretariat for the Economy in Rome, to clean up the Vatican's finances (more). Doctrinal wars? Both sides fire over Communion for divorced, remarried Extract from Francis X. Rocca, Catholic News Service, NCR, 18 September 2014 The extraordinary Synod of Bishops on the family will not open until Oct. 5, but some of its most prominent members are already publicly debating what is bound to be one of its most controversial topics: the eligibility of divorced and civilly remarried Catholics to receive Communion. In an interview published Thursday, a proponent of changing church practice to allow such Catholics to receive Communion answered criticism from some of his fellow cardinals, suggesting they are seeking a "doctrinal war" whose ultimate target is Pope Francis. "They claim to know on their own what truth is, but Catholic doctrine is not a closed system, but a living tradition that develops," German Cardinal Walter Kasper told the Italian daily Il Mattino. "They want to crystallize the truth in certain formulas ... the formulas of tradition." (more) Archdiocese of Sydney overturns Cardinal's abuse victims finding Extract from CathNews, Thursday 18 September 2014 The Archdiocese of Sydney has overturned findings of a Vatican inquiry, conducted under Cardinal George Pell, which attacked the credibility of alleged child abuse victims and said they may have “fabricated” claims, reports The Australian. A “definitive final decree,” written by Cardinal George Pell’s interim successor, Bishop Peter Comensoli, found “with moral certainty” that the alleged victims were abused at a boarding school during the 1970s, as they claimed. Evidence available to the initial inquiry but not mentioned in the previous decree suggested a “pattern of allegations and admissions” about the priest that “substantially undermines the credibility of his claim to innocence,” Bishop Comensoli found. His final decree, issued this month, also raised “significant doubts” over the conclusions of the three senior Australian clerics appointed by Cardinal Pell to carry out the original investigation (more). Photo: CathNews Retired Bishop Pat Power hopes that the Catholic Church will be a more human Church, a more humble Church, and a Church which is more intent on reflecting the person and the teaching of Jesus. Hardly a day goes by without some form of adverse media criticism being levelled at the Church or some of its members. Sometimes the criticism is vitriolic, unfair and replete with half-truths. At other times, I must admit, it is totally justified. It hurts me deeply to see the family of God which is meant to be a source of goodness and grace portrayed as a repository of evil. Much of the current negative publicity flows from the Royal Commission and other inquiries into institutional sexual abuse. Can such public discussion be an opportunity for the Church to endorse reforms needed for it to become its best self? (more). Photo: CathNews Kasper says Pope Francis would like to see ‘opening’ on church teaching on divorced and remarried Extract from Christopher Lamb, The Tablet, Thursday 18 September 2014 A leading cardinal has said he hopes bishops at next month’s synod will listen to lay people and bring forward proposals to allow communion for divorced and remarried Catholics. In an interview published in the forthcoming issue of The Tablet Cardinal Walter Kasper adds that his “impression” is that the Pope would also like to see an “opening” in this area. “I hope the bishops will listen to the voice of people who live as divorced and remarried – the sensus fidei. They should listen and then next year they should decide what is possible and what is not possible,” he said. Next month bishops from around the world will gather in Rome for the synod on the family that takes place from 5-19 October. A year later another synod will take place when concrete proposals will be put forward. In February this year Cardinal Kasper was asked by the Pope to address a consistory of cardinals on the subject of the family, ahead of the synod. His address suggested ways that the Church could allow divorced and remarried couples to receive communion while maintaining the indissolubility of marriage (more). Pell adds voice to growing opposition to Kasper’s efforts to relax Communion ban for remarried divorcees Extract from Abigail Frymann Rouch, Liz Dodd, The Tablet, Wednesday 17 September 2014 Senior cardinals and bishops are taking firmly opposed positions on the question of barring remarried divorcees from receiving Communion, which is set to be a contentious topic at next month’s Synod on the Family at the Vatican. Cardinal George Pell, a former archbishop of Sydney and a member of Pope Francis’ advisory body of nine cardinals, said that to admit divorced and remarried people to Communion would be “impossible” and make pastoral practice incompatible with doctrine. A further five cardinals, who include Gerhard Müller, head of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, have jointly authored a book that defends the Church’s current position, arguing that it is the most merciful approach to the issue. Pell was writing the foreword to a book by Professor Stephan Kampowski and Fr Juan Perez-Soba, titled The Gospel of the Family, which is due out next month from Paulist Press just before the start of the synod (more). Pope's advisers start first draft toward document overhauling Vatican Extracts from Carol Glatz, Catholic News Service, National Catholic Reporter, Wednesday 17 September 2014 Pope Francis' international Council of Cardinals has begun creating the first draft of a new apostolic constitution that would implement a major reform of the Vatican bureaucracy. The Council of Cardinals, a papally appointed group of nine cardinal members, held its sixth meeting Monday through Wednesday with Pope Francis at the Vatican to help advise him on the reform of the Vatican's organization and church governance........In their three days of talks and study, the nine cardinals "focused on two principle hotspots," the Vatican spokesman said in his written statement.The first topic included the laity, the family, "the role of women in society and the church, youth, childhood, or matters related to lay associations and movements and so on," he wrote. The second topic combined the issues of "justice and peace, charity, migrants and refugees, health, and the protection of life and ecology, especially human ecology," the written statement said (more). Philadelphia meetings, synods will be part of global debate on families Vatican City The World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia in September 2015 will serve as a forum for debating issues on the agenda for the world Synod of Bishops at the Vatican the following month, said the two archbishops responsible for planning the Philadelphia event. At a briefing Tuesday, Archbishop Vincenzo Paglia, president of the Pontifical Council for the Family, described the world meeting as one of several related events to follow the October 2014 extraordinary Synod of Bishops on the family, which will prepare an agenda for the worldwide synod one year later. Such events, including a January 2015 meeting in Rome with family and pro-life groups, will enable a debate on the synod's agenda "at the international, global level," Paglia said. "It is important that this text not remain an abstract text reserved to some specialists." "In this way, the debate at the ordinary synod will be enriched," the archbishop said. Pope Francis has said both synods will consider, among other topics, the eligibility of divorced and civilly remarried Catholics to receive Communion, whose predicament he has said exemplifies a general need for mercy in the church today. "We're bringing up all the issues that would have appeared in the preparation documents for the synod as part of our reflection," said Archbishop Charles Chaput of Philadelphia, regarding plans for the world meeting. "I can't imagine that any of the presenters won't pay close attention to what's happening" in Rome. Chaput said as many as 15,000 people are expected to take part in the meeting, whose program will be kept flexible to allow for topics that emerge from the bishops' discussions at the Vatican this October. "But we haven't approached this as a part of the synod," Chaput said. "It's a celebration of family life, the Catholic church's commitment to support families." (more) From October 2 - 3 this year Catholic Church Reform Int'l is hosting a two-day Forum on the Family at the Oratory of S. Francesco Saverio del Caravita in Rome. The group is the collaborative centre of a large number of international reform/renewal groups (including Catholics For Renewal) and will meet to discuss, and, as its gift, deliver to the Synod the testimonies and fruits of its comprehensive discernment on Family issues (including inputs from the Melbourne Forum and others). The Synod meets in Rome from 5-19 October. Photo: Caravita Community, CCR Int'l. Eric Hodgens. Will the Synod on the family work? Extract from Eric Hodgens, Pearls and Irritations, John Menadue website, 16 September 2014 Pope Francis has changed the focus of the Catholic Church from doctrine and rules to care and compassion. If people are at odds with the rules they should be supported and encouraged rather than condemned. Since many of the rules causing complications in today’s society are associated with marriage he has called a special Synod of Bishops to address “The Pastoral Challenges of the Family in the Context of Evangelization”. This meeting will take place in October 2014. The associated problems are many: (more) Church on track to become a shrinking cult? Edited Extracts from Opinion, Brian Cahill, National Catholic Reporrer, Tuesday 16 September 2014 Taking a break from his crusade against civil gay marriage, San Francisco Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone is establishing an Oratory of St. Philip Neri at Star of the Sea Parish in the city. The Oratory of St. Philip Neri dates back to 1575 in Rome and includes a rich history of priestly fraternity, community, prayer and the Eucharist. The intent here, according to Catholic San Francisco, is to "create a stable community with at least two full-time priests." There will be outreach to young adults and "a focus on offering Mass, hearing confessions and creating a welcoming community.".........New pastor Fr. Joseph Illo, the former chaplain at Thomas Aquinas College in Santa Paula, Calif., says he really wants to concentrate on young adults, offering air hockey and pingpong, among other activities. There will be Sunday and daily Mass in Latin, although it's not clear how in 2014 Mass in a language no one understands will attract young adults. Perhaps the air hockey and the pingpong will. But the Holy Spirit works in all sorts of strange and wonderful ways, and any effort to attract young adults -- to keep them from leaving the church, should be praised, especially given the wholesale exodus of young Catholics over recent years. The Pew Research Center's Religion and Public Life Project reports that four out of five Catholics who have left the church and haven't joined another church did so before the age of 24. One can point to an increasingly secular, materialistic culture as a factor in this exodus. But a closer look suggests that young Catholics are increasingly turned off by the attitudes and actions of some American bishops -- the failure to address the child abuse scandal, the harsh opposition to civil gay marriage, the cluelessness of church teaching on contraception, and the refusal to consider women priests.(more) Photo: NCR (Reuters/David Ryder). Eastside Catholic High School students rally at the Seattle Archdiocese in support of former Vice Principal who was asked to resign because he married his same-sex partner. At wedding, pope says spouses make each other better men and women Presiding over the wedding of 20 couples in St. Peter's Basilica, Pope Francis celebrated marriage as the union of a man and woman playing complementary roles during their common journey through life........ In typically frank style, Pope Francis admitted married life can be tiring, "burdensome, and often, even nauseating." But the pope assured the brides and grooms that Christ's redemptive sacrifice would enable them to resist the "dangerous temptation of discouragement, infidelity, weakness, abandonment." Pope Francis also offered practical advice for dealing with marital discord. "It is normal for a husband and wife to argue," he said. "It always happens. But my advice is this: Never let the day end without having first made peace. Never. A small gesture is sufficient. Thus the journey may continue."Speaking three weeks before the start of an extraordinary Synod of Bishops on the family, the pope emphasized the importance of the institution based on marriage (more). Photo: NCR, CNS / Paul Haring Extracts from Nancy Frazier O'Brien, Catholic News Service, NCR, Monday 15 September 15, 2014 The family under discussion when the extraordinary Synod of Bishops convenes at the Vatican Oct. 5 will bear little resemblance to the family of 50 or even 20 years ago. The blended and extended families created by high rates of divorce, remarriage and cohabitation -- along with the worldwide migration prompted by economic turmoil and war -- have combined to change forever the view of family as limited to a mother, father and their children. But children are still most likely to live in two-parent families in all countries except South Africa, according to the World Family Map 2014, a research project sponsored by the Bethesda, Md.-based nonprofit Child Trends and a variety of educational and nongovernmental institutions from across the globe...........The blended and extended families created by high rates of divorce, remarriage and cohabitation -- along with the worldwide migration prompted by economic turmoil and war -- have combined to change forever the view of family as limited to a mother, father and their children............Randall Woodard, an associate professor of theology/religion at St. Leo University in Florida, told Catholic News Service that divorce is the biggest issue facing American families, "and Catholics in the U.S. generally aren't particularly distinct or different from the rest of the culture here." He said the synod will need to find a way to make divorced Catholics who have remarried feel welcomed into the church, even if their status might preclude them from receiving the sacraments. "Cultural issues are challenging to address for the church because (they) can make people feel alienated, but often it's the same people who need help," Woodard said. "What churches have [to be] better at conveying is, yes, these things happened, but you're still welcome here. It's the same message, with a different tone." (more) The makeup of Synod of Bishops on the family is disappointing Extract from Thomas Reese, National Catholic Reporter, Thursday 11 September 2014 The list of those attending the Synod of Bishops on the family is a disappointment to those hoping for reform of the Curia and for those who hope that the laity will be heard at the synod. The appointment of 25 curial officials to the synod on the family is a sign that Pope Francis still does not understand what real reform of the Roman Curia requires. It makes me fear that when all is said and done, he may close or merge some offices, rearrange some responsibilities, but not really shake things up (more). Couples with kids, cohabitating are among those marrying at papal Mass Extract from Carol Glatz, Catholic News Service, Thursday 11 September 2014 VATICAN CITY - Among the men and women Pope Francis was set to unite in marriage were Catholics who have been living together as well as couples who already have children. The pope, who is the bishop of Rome, will preside over his first wedding ceremony as pontiff during a nuptial Mass in St. Peter's Basilica Sept. 14. The event, which will see 20 couples from the Diocese of Rome celebrate the Sacrament of Marriage, was organized by the vicariate of Rome. "Those who will get married Sunday are couples like many others," the diocese said in a press release Sept. 10. The ages of the brides and grooms range from the youngest being 25 to the oldest being 56, the vicariate said. It said the couples also come from all kinds of situations with some "who have been engaged for a long period of time or for not as long; there are those who are already cohabitating; who already have children; who got to know each other in church," it said. While cohabitation is not in itself a canonical impediment to marriage, it is contrary to the church's teaching on marriage and sexual love. The church urges that pastoral ministers help couples preparing for marriage by showing them the witness of Christian family life in such a way as they may regularize their situation before their wedding ceremony (more). Newly-appointed Primate of All Ireland looks to lay-led renewal of Irish Church Newly appointed Archbishop of Armagh Eamon Martin, who also becomes Primate of All Ireland, says he wants to see a “humble renewal” of the Irish Church led from the bottom up by the laity. Speaking at St Patrick’s Cathedral in Armagh this week, following the announcement that Pope Francis had accepted the resignation of his predecessor, Cardinal Sean Brady, Archbishop Martin pledged to be a “servant leader” and cautioned against expectations of a top-down leadership. Pope appoints two US priests to help tackle sexual abuse of minors Extracts from Carol Glatz, Catholic News Service, National Catholic Reporter. Thursday 10 September 2014 Pope Francis appointed two U.S. priests to top positions at the Vatican for dealing with the sexual abuse of minors.The pope named U.S. Fr. Robert Oliver to be the new secretary of the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors, and appointed Jesuit Fr. Robert Geisinger to replace Oliver as the promoter of justice at the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith -- the Vatican's chief prosecutor of sex abuse crimes........A Vatican source told Catholic News Service there would be another announcement "soon" of more new members to be added to the commission, as it aims to expand the number of representatives from around the world, especially from Africa and Asia. The commission, which currently has eight members, including a survivor of clerical sexual abuse, mental health professionals and experts in civil and church law, is tasked with laying out a pastoral approach to helping victims and preventing abuse. The pope has said he wants the commission to help the church develop better policies and procedures for protecting minors (more). Belgian bishop urges synod on family to hold real dialogue on moral issues Extract from The Tablet, Wednesday 10 September 2014 Antwerp Bishop Johan Bonny has published a long letter on the upcoming Synod of Bishops urging the assembly to have the courage to bring the Church’s moral teachings more in line with the lived experience of the laity. "The Church must step away from its defensive, antithetical stance and seek anew the path of dialogue" on moral issues, he wrote in the 22-page letter posted on his diocese’s website in five languages (more). Statement by Bishop Johan Bonny "Synod on the Family, Expectations of a Diocesan Bishop" Pope Francis is a game-changer. Extract from Michael Kelly SJ. Pearls and Irritations, John Menadue Website, Thursday 11 September 2014 There’s no doubting that Pope Francis is a game changer and not just for the Catholic Church. The question remains whether he can pull off the changes he’s foreshowed and many Catholics want. Three decades of people being made bishops more for reasons of their readiness to comply with directives from Head Office than for any evident leadership capacities means that Papa Bergoglio as the Italians call him has little to draw on in the way of resources and personnel to see the desired changes through. And five decades of resistance by the Vatican Curia to the changes mandated at Vatican II in the early 1960s means that the challenges start at GHQ. But beyond the resistance and lack of resources to manage the change lies something deeper. It really comes down to a difference in what one thinks the Church is. And about that Pope Francis is quite clear. An image of the Church that Pope Francis has made popular is that of its being a “field hospital”, something deployed to bring healing and care to battle scarred warriors (more). Australian couple one of 14 to attend Synod of Bishops on family Extracts from Cathnews, Wednesday 10 September 2014 Australian couple Dr Ron and Mavis Pirola are among 14 married couples who have been chosen from around the world to attend October's Extraordinary Synod of Bishops on the Family, reports the Catholic News Service. Dr and Mrs Pirola, chairs of the Australian bishops' Catholic Marriage and Family Council, will be joined by Christopher Meney, director of the Life, Marriage and Family Centre with the Archdiocese of Sydney, and Joan Clements, co-director of the World Organisation of Ovulation Method Billings in Australia. They are among more than 250 participants, including 114 presidents of national bishops' conferences, 13 heads of Eastern Catholic churches and 25 heads of Vatican congregations and councils. The Pope also appointed 26 Synod fathers to take part in the October 5-19 event. A list of the appointments was released yesterday by the Vatican. Almost all of the 26 Papally appointed voting members are from Europe. Of these, none of the 14 cardinals, eight bishops, and four priests appointed by the Pope is from North America or other English-speaking countries............However, among the non-voting members of 38 observers and 16 experts appointed by the Pope, the majority are laymen and laywomen, including 14 married couples, and they are more geographically diverse, with several coming from Asia, Africa, Oceania and the Americas, as well as Europe......(more) In support of the Vatican 'Family Synod' in Rome from 5-19 October an open discussion on selected family issues was enthusiastically entered into at St Leonards Parish this evening in a joint arrangement with Catholics For Renewal. The four topics addressed were Cohabitation before and outside of marriage, Openness to Life; Birth control and contraceptive practices; Reception of the Eucharist for Catholics who have divorced and remarried, and The damage done to all families by clerical sexual abuse of children. What was also very notable apart from deliberations was the open, honest, thoughtful and respectful way in which all participants spoke and listened to each other. A summary of the outcome is being prepared and will be forwarded to the Synod of Bishops before their meeting in Rome, through Catholic Church Reform International of which Catholics For Renewal is a member, as are many other renewal organisations around the world. CCRI are currently gathering responses from families at similar forums around the world on pastoral challenges facing the family. A concluding comment at the Forum from Peter Johnstone Chair of Catholics For Renewal strongly praised and reaffirmed the overwhelming majority of priests (such as those present tonight) who despite this very difficult time in the Church remain focussed on providing outstanding pastoral care to the people of the Church, was supported with enthusiastic acclamation by those across the crowded room tonight. Extract from Staff Reporter, Zenit, 9 September 2014 In an announcement today in which it published the names of those taking part in the upcoming Synod of Bishops on marriage and the family, the Vatican also explained that the ecclesial body has a new methodology.The Extraordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops (5-19 October) will be on the theme: “Pastoral challenges to the family in the context of evangelisation”. The aim of the meeting is "to propose to today's world the beauty and the values of the family, which emerge from the proclamation of Jesus Christ Who disperses fear and supports hope," the Vatican said. Referring to the preparatory stages of the synod, in which a questionnaire was unusually sent to dioceses around the world in order to prepare the working document for the two-week meeting, Cardinal Lorenzo Baldisseri, secretary general of the Synod of Bishops, said the synod "is developing in a new and renewed way, with concrete actions." The criterion for renewal is that of "first painting the picture and then adding the frame," he said. "The rules in force provide the track along which the train of renewal proceeds. As we go ahead, the steps necessary for changing the rules or eventually setting about a full reconstruction of the Synod as an entity will become evident." The cardinal said the synod will be divided into two phases: the Extraordinary General Assembly of 2014 and the Ordinary General Assembly of 2015. "A new working methodology will be applied," he explained, "rendering the process more dynamic and participatory, with speeches and testimonials, always with a view to continuity towards the second stage, after which the Synod document will be published”. Cardinal Baldisseri's comments were made in a statement on the Synod which we publish below (more). Parolin indicates reform might not be Synod's main focus. Says family must be protected from dissolution Extracts from Hannah Roberts in Rome, National Catholic Reporter, Friday 5 September 2014 Just one month before the start of the Synod of Bishops on the Family, the Vatican Secretary of State has given an indication that the main focus of the synod may not be the reforms that some in the Church hope for, but the legal and cultural threats to the family itself. The Church “understands the many threats to family life, in the form of policies and laws that allow or even hasten the dissolving of the family”, Cardinal Parolin told participants in the fifth annual conference of the International Catholic Legislators Network. He called upon those present “not only to live ‘in the midst of the world’ but also to be ‘a leaven in the world’ in favour of the family, the local community, and your respective nations.” He added: “This means, by your words, by your witness and by your legislative and political actions informed by faith, you are called to foster a more just society, centred on the dignity of the human person.”...........Cardinal Parolin is one of the Council of Cardinals helping to advise Pope Francis on doctrinal and practical reforms. His relatively conservative stance could disappoint those hoping for changes to Catholic doctrine on homosexuality, contraception, communion for divorced and remarried persons, and other controversial topics at the 5-19 October synod.(more). Photo: Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican secretary of state, CNS/Paul Harding Hard questions we’re not asking Pope Francis Extracts from Aalysis by John L. Allen Jr., Associate Editor, Crux, Friday 5 September 2014 Pope Francis is an undeniably attractive figure whose concern for people at society’s margins can be awesome to behold. As a result, it’s almost impossible sometimes not to go soft on the man.............Yet precisely because there’s so much to like, Francis sometimes gets a free pass on the sort of legitimate questions any other leader would attract. In that regard he often seems the mirror opposite of his predecessor, Pope Benedict XVI. Because Benedict had a bad public image, he sometimes was blamed even for things that weren’t his fault. In contrast, Francis often is absolved even for choices for which he actually is responsible. Where Benedict was Velcro, Francis is Teflon. For Benedict everything stuck, for Francis almost nothing does. At least four hard questions we should be asking more often come to mind: (more) Peres says Francis only leader capable of ending today's wars Extract from CathNews, Friday 5 September 2014 Former Israeli President Shimon Peres has asked Francis to head a parallel United Nations called the "United Religions" to counter religious extremism in the world. Peres said Francis would be the best person to head such a world body, reports CNS. Peres said that “perhaps for the first time in history, the Holy Father is a leader who’s respected, not just by a lot of people, but also by different religions and their representatives, "In the past, most wars were motivated by the idea of nationhood. Today, however, wars are incited above all using religion as an excuse," Peres told the Catholic magazine, Famiglia Cristiana, ahead of the papal meeting yesterday. Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi, Vatican spokesman, confirmed that Mr Peres, who ended his presidential term in July, had requested the meeting and told the Pope about his idea. Pope Francis, however, did not commit himself to the proposal (more). What's eating Catholic women? Extract from Jamie Manson, National Catholic Reporter, Thursday 4 September 2014 Two years ago, when Cardinal Gerhard Müller criticized the Leadership Conference of Women Religious for promoting radical feminist themes, the head of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith offered a stark reminder that feminism has no place in the Roman Catholic church. In his most recent interview in L'Osservatore Romano (the Vatican's "semi-official" newspaper), Müller further indicates that any suggestion of misogyny on the part of the hierarchy is a claim best answered with a punch line. Sadly, it's a comedic lesson Müller likely learned from his boss, the pope. Back in July, when journalist Franca Giansoldati asked Pope Francis whether the pontiff's tropes about the "church as a woman" and the "the church as a feminine word" were misogynistic, he responded with a joke about women as Adam's rib. The pope then went on a roll of sorts, making another zinger about priests coming under the authority of female housekeepers (more). An unspoken truth about US teens who flee the Catholic church Extract from Jennifer Mertens, National Catholic Reporter, 4 September 2014 "So are you going to force religion on me?" On the first day of class, a handful of teens express this sentiment. Three weeks in, countless more admit to having entered with this fear. Initially, the feedback startled me. Now, I expect it. Thanks to polarizing debates and preachy clichés, a significant percentage of young American Catholics express discomfort, flippancy and even boredom with their church. "They don't get us." "Church doesn't really matter to the rest of my life." "Who cares what we think? No one listens to us anyway." Typical teens? Adult Catholics often bemoan these comments as evidence of a rather grim forecast in the American church's future. "Oh, what a sad, lost generation!" With young people now fleeing church pews in droves, the concern is well-founded. And while today's graying parishes have become subject to intense study and debate, we frequently miss how it is precisely young people's spiritual hunger that leads many away. Look closely. Today's young people experience profound spiritual hunger. This hunger permeates my own millennial cohort and surfaces daily among my students. As teens struggle for wholeness in a fragmented world, such hunger compels them to fearlessly pursue tough questions: (more) Extract from CathNews, Thursday 4 September 2014 A child migrant believes his name was changed by nuns before he sailed from Northern Ireland to Australia in an effort to ensure he could not be traced, a public inquiry in Ireland has heard, reports AAP on Yahoo7. Seasick children vomited from the decks and cried on their way to a new identity and life in a country they knew nothing about. One nun said: "I hope that ship sinks on the way out there as punishment for misbehaving." Once they arrived, some children were subjected to sexual and physical abuse by members of the Christian Brothers Catholic religious order at Clontarf in Western Australia, the Historical Institutional Abuse (HIA) inquiry was told on Tuesday. The decision to change the name of one child was signed by a mother superior in Northern Ireland on behalf of the Catholic Council for Child Welfare. He was told not to change it back when he arrived in Australia following the month-long passage from Northern Ireland. A witness statement said he was never askedif he wanted to go. "I had no idea where Australia was, my mother was never told about going there." The nuns fitted him out with clothes for the trip. "The last thing they did was change my name. I think they wanted to ensure I could not be traced." (more). Image: Cathnews NY Gay groups in St. Patrick's parade all right with Cardinal Dolan Extract from David Gibson, Religion News Service, National Catholic Reporter, Tuesday 2 September 2014 Vatican's doctrinal chief renews criticism of US nuns Extract from David Gibson Religion News Service, NCR, 2 September 2014 The Vatican's guardian of orthodoxy and the force behind Rome's investigation of American nuns has renewed his criticism of the Leadership Conference of Women Religious, downplaying the group's size and importance and arguing that the Vatican is trying to help them recover their religious identity so they don't die out. "Above all we have to clarify that we are not misogynists, we don't want to gobble up a woman a day!" Cardinal Gerhard Müller told L'Osservatore Romano, the Vatican's semiofficial newspaper, in the edition published on Monday. Müller, head of the Vatican's Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, told the newspaper that the sisters of the LCWR "do not represent all U.S. nuns, but just a group of North American nuns who form part of an association." (more) Cardinal says more women to join theological commission Extract from CathNews, 2 September 2014 More women will be joining the International Theological Commission, with the number rising from two to “five or six,” according to the Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, reports Vatican Insider. Historian Lucetta Scaraffia, who conducted the interview with Cardinal Gerhard Müller for L’Osservatore Romano, said the Cardinal “also informed me that the new International Theological Commission the Pope is about to make nominations for will include more women than previously. As far as I understood the number of women will go from two to five or six." That would be a significant increase (more). N. Ireland inquiry into removal of children to Australia Extract from CathNews, 2 September 2014 Children in institutions in Northern Ireland were exported to Australia like “baby convicts,” a witness has told a public inquiry into historical abuse in Northern Ireland, reports news.com.au. The Sisters of Nazareth were responsible for the removal of 111 child migrants aged as young as five before and after World War II, some of whom faced grave sexual and physical violence after arrival. Another 20 were sent by other institutions. In some cases parental consent was not sought, migrants were separated from siblings, and some deprived of their real identities by withholding of birth certificates, a lawyer for the Historical Institutional Abuse (HIA) inquiry said yesterday. Reasons for transport included boosting “Catholicisation” in Australia, propping up the number of white inhabitants of the Empire or saving money and emptying overcrowded workhouses, the investigation heard. A statement from one witness said: “We were exported to Australia like little baby convicts.” (more). Practice continued till 1950s Political models for the papacy Extracts from Thomas Reece*, National Catholic Reporter, Friday 29 August 2014 Defenders of the status quo in church governance often say, "The church is not a democracy," with the implication that the church can learn nothing from civil governments. The truth is that the church has been borrowing government structures from civil society almost from the beginning. In fact, we know that bishops, including the bishop of Rome, were elected by the people in the early days of the church. Later in Rome, the Roman Senate was sometimes involved in selecting popes prior to the creation of the College of Cardinals. Not surprisingly, the cardinals for many centuries saw themselves as successors to the Roman Senate, and until the revision of the Code of Canon Law in 1983, the College of Cardinals was referred to in church law as a senate. During some periods, the cardinals were so powerful that the pope could not do anything without their approval...........Historically, the church changed its governance structures to match changes in civil society. Thus, by the 13th century, the Vatican had an Apostolic Chancellery, which matched the chancelleries in European countries. The chancellery handled appointments of bishops and abbots as well as bulls and rescripts. Before becoming pope, John XXII (1316-1344) had been chancellor to the French king. He used his expertise in organizing the chancellery to handle papal business (more). *Jesuit Fr. Thomas Reese is a senior analyst for NCR and author of Inside the Vatican: The Politics and Organization of the Catholic Church. 'Staggering' Church needs elixir of God, says Nuncio The Church does not need window dressing and public relations, it needs the living spirit of God, Archbishop Paul Gallagher, Apostolic Nuncio in Australia, told delegates to the Proclaim 2014 conference for parish renewal. In a homily focussed largely on Ezekiel’s vision depicting Israel as a valley of dead and dry bones, Archbishop Gallagher last Friday told the conference in Sydney that the Church was presently “injured by innumerable self-inflicted wounds.” “She is bloodied but staggers like a drunken man, but a cold shower of sobriety is being administered,” he told the delegates, adding that “despite the pain, we must be grateful. We would not be here if everything was beautiful in the garden that is the Catholic Church,” he said. “We know we live in painful, critical times. We recognise many have written us off as a shrivelled desiccated stump of a once healthy tree. “We are struggling on many fronts and it is not easy to maintain confidence that we will regain the vital flourishing of our foundation.” But just like those elderly members of the community who, in spite of the limitations of old age, retained great vitality and intellectual vigour, so, too, the Church can be reanimated through its faith and hope in God (more). Why are we silencing women (and lay) preachers? Extract from Christine Schenk, National Catholic Reporter, 28 August 2014 Bishop Salvatore Matano, the new bishop of Rochester, N.Y., is in the process of ending a 40-year custom of permitting lay ministers to preach at Mass. Most are women commissioned to preach by the former bishop, Matthew Clark. All have advanced degrees in theology and all have served for many years in various diocesan leadership positions. Many are or were parish administrators in a diocese where one-third of all parishes are without a resident priest. (And things are going to get worse. According to the diocesan website, the number of active diocesan priests is expected to decline from 140 to 62 by 2025 -- a decline of almost 60 percent.) Preaching at Mass by prepared and gifted laity, especially laywomen, flourished under Clark, who interpreted church law broadly, though the practice actually began under his predecessor, Bishop Joseph Hogan. Clark, who retired in 2012, was nationally known for supporting expanded roles for women in the church. In 1982, in "The Fire in the Thornbush," his first pastoral letter as bishop, he wrote: (more) Italian Bishops' Leader Backs Communion for Divorced and Remarried Extract from Staff Reporter, Zenit,Rome, Thursday 28 August 2014 Addressing a national conference on the liturgy on Wednesday, Bishop Nunzio Galantino said the Church must make everyone feel at home, including "unconventional couples". "Couples in irregular matrimonial situations are also Christians, but they are sometimes looked upon with prejudice," he said, according to Italian news agency ANSA. “The burden of exclusion from the sacraments is an unjustified price to pay, in addition to de facto discrimination," the prelate maintained. Avvenire reported that he said the Eucharist “is and must remain a ‘universal assembly’”, and that it must also be an “eloquent sign of the divine and his free gift for the ‘uninitiated’.”The Italian prelate, who was appointed by Pope Francis, said a merciful Church is embodied in a merciful community in which “anyone can feel at home,” whether it is the poor, people with disabilities, migrants, or those who cannot receive Communion such as the divorced and remarried. He stressed the importance of taking an “attitude of charity in truth”, but added that when faced with such situations, “we must honestly admit that we have no longer insisted on the truth when we haven’t exercised charity (more). Towards a better world Extract from Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv, Kairos Catholic Journal, CAM, Thursday 28 August 2014 This year, we celebrate the 100th World Day of Migrants and Refugees and Pope Francis has named its theme as ‘Towards a Better World’..........Ever since Pope Francis unexpectedly came onto the scene, he has challenged us to reclaim the spirit of the Gospel. For him, it has little to do with security, comfort, complacency and mediocrity. A self-serving and self-preserving mentality goes against the very nature of what it means to be a Christian and Church. In his apostolic exhortation, Evangelii Gaudium, the Joy of the Gospel, he says for example: ‘I prefer a Church which is bruised, hurting and dirty because it has been out on the streets, rather than a Church which is unhealthy from being confined and from clinging to its own security.’ Earlier in Lampedusa, he appealed to Christians for a sense of responsibility in the face of a globalised indifference towards the strangers in our midst. Just as the Samaritan goes out of his way to become a neighbour to the wounded, we are called to be a Church that moves outside of itself and towards those on the periphery......(more) The question of what is happening to organized religion in America remains unanswered, but one thing is clear: Larger and larger numbers of individuals are drifting away from traditional notions of church. In her book Belief Without Borders, Linda A. Mercadante, a Presbyterian minster and theologian raised in a half-Catholic, half-Jewish family, begins her exploration of the faith lives of the "spiritual but not religious" (whom she calls SBNRs) with a thesis about spiritual change. She writes, "No matter how organized religions try to ignore, challenge, adapt, or protest it, our society is being changed by this pervasive ethos." 2. Young Catholic America: Emerging Adults In, Out Of, And Gone From The Church By Christian Smith, Kyle Longest, Jonathan Hill and Kari Christofferson Published by Oxford University Press, US$29.95 So what is the place of young Catholics in this same "fragmented" world that Mercadante's SBNRs inhabit? According to the research done by the authors of Young Catholic America, young Catholics may be just as spiritually at sea as many of their religiously unaffiliated peers. Drawing on surveys and interviews conducted with the same cohort of participants from 2002, when they were young teenagers, to 2008, when they were "emerging" adults, the four researchers who co-authored this study began their work in a negative space. Prior to the National Study of Youth and Religion that led to this book, the research on young Catholics showed a story of "decline and loss." Young Catholic America attempts to pick apart some of the reasons behind that decline. Much of the first section of the book is focused on the role parents play in giving their children a Catholic identity, and the authors conclude that many parents of millennials were "poorly formed in Catholic faith and life." The reasons for this are manifold, but the authors point to a long era of "institutional weakening" of the church. (more) Extracts from Francis Sullivan, Thursday 28 August 2014 At the hearings at the Royal Commission this week in Melbourne, Archbishop Hart likened the Church to a family, a grouping of people under a common cause, dedicated to leading supportive relationships with a disposition to reach out, not only to support each other but also to support others in need. From my perspective he hit the nail right on the head. Earlier we heard Cardinal Pell try to explain how, in a legal sense, the Church is not liable for a crime committed by one of its clergy. He used the analogy of a trucking company and its driver and whether the company could be sued for a crime committed by the driver during the course of his employment. Of course the driver can be prosecuted for the crime however the law generally does not make the company civilly liable in these circumstances.......Cardinal Pell stated that as it stands the law applies equally to all institutions, be they trucking companies or the Church. However the analogy was poorly chosen and was bound to be misunderstood. The reaction to Cardinal Pell’s evidence was swift. It sent the wrong signal to the community by implying the Church approaches child sex abuse as if it is just any other company in the community (more). Leadership Conference of Women Religious avoids confrontation at annual meeting in US Extracts From Michael Sean Winters, The Tablet, Tuesday 26 August 2014 The Leadership Conference of Women Religious (LCWR) wrapped up its annual meeting in Nashville, affirming their commitment to continued dialogue with the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (CDF) and Archbishop Peter Sartain, the Vatican-appointed overseer of the organisation. In 2010, the CDF issued a doctrinal assessment that faulted the LCWR for hosting doctrinally questionable speakers, insufficiently focusing on life issues, and other matters.“Our study, discernment, and prayer led us to reaffirm our strong belief that ongoing conversation with church leadership is key to building effective working relationships that enable both women religious and church leaders to serve the world,” the LCWR board said in a statement issued at the conclusion of the meeting. “It is our deepest hope to resolve the situation between LCWR and CDF in a way that fully honours our commitment to fulfill the LCWR mission as well as protect the integrity of the organisation. We will continue in the conversation with Archbishop Sartain as an expression of hope that new ways may be created within the Church for healthy discussion of differences.” The LCWR leaders offered the hope that the dialogue could become a model for those “thousands of persons throughout the country and around the world [who] long for places where they can raise questions and explore ideas on matters of faith in an atmosphere of freedom and respect.” (more) Photo: The Tablet Extracts from Pearls and Irritations, John Menadue website, Monday 25 August 2015 Vatican asks Archdiocese of Sydney to review abuse investigation Extracts from CathNews, Monday 25 August 2014 The Vatican has asked the Archdiocese of Sydney to review an investigation conducted under Cardinal George Pell, which criticised the credibility of two alleged victims of Church child sex abuse, reports The Australian. The Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse is also investigating the matter, following the publication of the resulting Church decree in The Australian in April..........In April, following the revelation of the document’s contents in The Australian, the Royal Commission wrote to the Vatican requesting “copies of any documents regarding” the priest concerned. Last month, in a letter subsequently tendered to the Royal Commission, the Vatican replied, saying that the priest “is presently the subject of a canonical process which (has) been returned to ecclesiastical authorities in Australia for further review.’’ (more). Photo: CathNews. Pope phones family of executed US journalist Extract from CathNews, Friday 22 August 2014 Pope Francis phoned the bereaved family of a US journalist killed by Islamic State militants in Syria yesterday to console them for their loss and assure them of his prayers, reports the Catholic News Service. The call to the family of James Foley in Rochester, New Hampshire, came in the afternoon New Hampshire time. Vatican spokesman Father Lombardi SJ released no additional details (more). PM confident Royal Commission will be extended Extract from CathNews. Friday 22 August 2014 The Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse looks certain to be granted a two-year extension after Prime Minister Tony Abbott backed calls for additional funding, reports The Sydney Morning Herald. The Royal Commission has sought $104 million in order to allow thousands more survivors of abuse to come forward. The request, which would extend the Commission’s deadline until December, 2017, would also fund 30 more public hearings and an extra 3000 private sessions. Mr Abbott gave his strongest signal yesterday that he’ll approve the request within weeks (more). Cardinal denies MPs claim he ignored abuse report Edited Extract from CathNews, Thursday 21 August 2014 The Herald Sun reports that Victorian State Labor MP Frank McGuire yesterday accused Cardinal Pell in the Victorian Parliament of glossing over crimes of former priest Peter Searson. But Cardinal Pell, (in a statement he issued) said that in his evidence to the inquiry he drew attention to Mr O’Callaghan’s investigation into Fr Searson (more). Cardinal Pell appears at Royal Commission Edited extract of report by Cameron Houston and Jane Lee,The Age, Thursday 21 August 2014 Countering criticism of the contentious Melbourne Response Cardinal George Pell claimed his 1996 Melbourne initiative was Australia's first comprehensive redress scheme for victims of clerical sexual abuse. Via video link from Rome Cardinal Pell appearing before the Royal Commission likened the Catholic Church's responsibility for child abuse to that of a "trucking company", whose driver had sexually assaulted a hitch-hiker. "I don't think it appropriate for the leadership of that company to be held responsible. If every precaution has been taken, it's I think not appropriate for legal culpability to be foisted on the authority figures," Cardinal Pell said (more). Melbourne Response Hearing Extract from TJHC Blog, Francis Sullivan, Wednesday 21 August 2014 The Royal Commission’s 16th public hearing began in Melbourne this week focusing on the Melbourne Response, the protocol established by the Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne in 1996 to respond to allegations of clerical sex abuse against people under the control of the Archbishop of Melbourne. This is a chance for the Melbourne Archdiocese and the protocol’s Independent Commissioner and others involved to explain the principals, practices and procedures of this scheme (more). Two infant grandnephews of Pope Francis and their mother have been killed after their car slammed into the back of a truck in Argentina, authorities have said, according to an AFP report on Nine News. The Pope's nephew Emanuel Horacio Bergoglio, who was behind the wheel at the time of the crash, was in serious condition, they said. Mr Bergoglio's children -- aged eight months and two years old -- were killed in the crash along with their mother, Cordoba police commissioner Carina Ferreyra told AFP. Vatican spokesman, Fr Federico Lombardi SJ, said the Pope had been informed about the accident and was "deeply pained. He asks all those who share in his pain to join him in prayer," Fr Lombardi added (more). US theology professor fires back at Vatican Extract from CathNews, Wednesday 20 August 2014 A religious sister who drew US Catholic bishops' ire over her writings says their investigation of women's orders is wasteful when financial mismanagement and sexual abuses are being covered up, reports the Religion News Service on Ucanews. Sr Elizabeth Johnson, a theology professor at Fordham University, accepted the Leadership Conference of Women Religious' top award last Friday and then lambasted bishops for criticism of her book Quest for the Living God, saying it appears they've never read it. "To this day, no one, not myself or the theological community, the media or the general public knows what doctrinal issue is at stake," she told the Nashville assembly of about about 900 sisters representing 80 percent of the nation’s nuns (more). Francis backs Romero cause and reveals details of life in Rome during Q+A on Papal plane Extract from Liz Dodd, The Tablet, 19 August 2014 Pope Francis backed the beatification of Salvadoran Archbishop Oscar Romero and spoke out on conflicts in Iraq and Gaza during in a conversation with journalists aboard the return flight from South Korea. During the press conference Pope Francis also addressed concerns that his hectic schedule could lead to burnout by assuring reporters that he holidayed “at home” and treated his neuroses “with herbal tea”.......“Once I read a book. It was quite interesting, its title was: Rejoice that you are neurotic. I too have some neuroses. But one should treat the neuroses well. Give them some maté (Argentinian herbal drink) every day. One of the neuroses is that I am too attached to life.”(more). Catholic Herald View: Pope Francis has created an extraordinary opening for Catholicism in Asia Extract from Catholic Herald (UK), Tuesday 19 August 2014 It is always unnerving to hear a pope speak about his own mortality. When Francis told journalists on his flight home from South Korea yesterday that he expected his papacy to “last a short time, two or three years, and then to the house of the Father” it was certainly unsettling. Some reports say he laughed as he said it, but it can’t be dismissed entirely as a joke: ever since he was elected, at the age of 76, he has pursued his mission with an uncommon urgency. As the Pontiff completed his incredibly successful South Korean visit on Sunday, a Vatican spokesman noted that “Pope Francis has said clearly that Asia is a priority”. A quick glance at the Pope’s schedule confirms this: he will visit Sri Lanka and Philippines in January, meaning he will have visited Asia twice before he has set foot in any western country outside Italy. Why has a pope who is in such a hurry made a continent where only three per cent of the population are Catholic a priority? (more) Photo: Catholic Herald, CNS Royal Commission witness testimony Edited Extracts from James Lee, Cameron Houston, The Age, Tuesday 19 August 2014 Paul Hersbach kept his composure until the end (of his appearance of the Child Sexual Abuse Royal Commission in Melbourne yesterday). He, like all the 231 victims of child sexual abuse who have lodged claims to the Catholic Church Melbourne Response, had been forced to tell their stories to strangers before......."I do not need or want a personal apology. I do not want the church burned down...All I want is for someone from the Catholic Church to show compassion and give me a call one day and say 'Hi Paul how are you going these days..can I do anything to help?'" (more) Former Adass Israel School principal to be extradited over alleged child sex abuse. Extract from Jewel Topsfield., The Age, Tuesday 19 August 2014 The former head of an Orthodox Jewish school in Melbourne will be extradited to Australia to face charges of sexually abusing her students (more). Vic sex abuse claims cost Church $34 million Extract fron CathNews, Tuesday 19 August 2014 Counsel assisting the Commission, Gail Furness SC, said data from the Archdiocese of Melbourne showed abuse claims had cost the Church more than $34 million. 'The total of ex gratia payments made under the Melbourne response for child sexual abuse claims and amounts paid for medical counselling and treatment amounted to $17.295 million,' Ms Furness said. 'The cost of administering the Melbourne response was $17.011 million.' (more) Extracts from Dan Stockman, National Catholic Reporter, 15 August 2014 The Vatican and women religious are caught up in a tension with historical, sociological and ecclesiastical roots, but a solution could be found, Sr. Elizabeth Johnson said..............Johnson said historically, there has always been tensions between religious communities and the hierarchy because one is based on a radical living of the Gospel and the other is based on administration, which requires order. The issue is also sociological, she said. “The church did not start out this way, but as an institution, it has evolved a patriarchal structure where authority is executed in a top-down fashion and obedience and loyalty to the system are the greatest of virtues,” Johnson said. Finally, she said, the tensions are ecclesiastical because women religious have undergone the renewal called for by the Second Vatican Council and the hierarchy has not.“Certainly, the LCWR and the sisters they lead are far from perfect, but they have got the smell of the sheep on them,” she said to heavy applause. “Post-Vatican II renewal has not taken place at the [Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith].” (more) Photo:St. Joseph Sr. Elizabeth Johnson speaks to members of the Leadership Conference of Women Religious (Dan Stockman) Extract from Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne, Thursday 14 August 2014 Archbishop Hart supports the concept of a mandatory national victims' redress scheme operated by the Government and funded by institutions responsible for the abuse, so long as the Church is dealt with in the same way as every other government and non-government organization. The Archbishop remains firmly of the view that the Melbourne Response has delivered compassion and fairness in understanding the needs of victims of sexual abuse in the absence of any statutory or government auspiced scheme. It has served us well for the eighteen years it has been operating, but the time has come to look for a new model that meets the needs of victims, applies to all institutions involved with children and operates in accordance with current community standards (more). Victims seething over planned cap for compensation Edited extract from Deborah Gough and Jane Lee, The Age, Wednesday 13 August 2014 The Catholic Church wants to dump its maligned abuse compensation system, the Melbourne Response, and replace it with an independent national scheme, but victims are seething over a plan to cap payments. The church, on Tuesday, made a submission to the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse, which called for a new independent statutory body to investigate and compensate abuse claims. This would replace the Catholic schemes operated through the Towards Healing process and the Melbourne Response and deal with abuse by other institutions. The Royal Commission will begin a two-week sitting in Melbourne on Monday. The commission had asked institutions to provide proposals on how cases could be investigated and compensated.The federal government would operate the new independent body but institutions responsible for the abuse would pay for it, Francis Sullivan, chairman of the church's Truth Justice and Healing Council, said (more). 'Points of reflection' on consecrated life presented to LCWR members Extract from Dawn Cherie Araujo, National Catholic Reporter, 13 August 2014 .... an undersecretary from the Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life, presented U.S. women religious with a series of questions the Vatican is asking all religious congregations, male and female, to reflect on over the next year. In November, Pope Francis called for a special yearlong focus on consecrated life, asking the church's religious sisters, brothers and priests to "wake up the world" with their testimony of faith, holiness and hope. The Year for Consecrated Life is to run for a year beginning with Advent in 2015.The Vatican's congregation for religious developed eight questions, which it is sharing with religious throughout the world as a guide for reflection..........Presenting the questions, Lemocelli told the audience of about 800 sisters that he hoped the questions would "serve as points of reflection for you and for the members of your communities during the Year of Consecrated Life."The questions are:.......(more) Extract from Robert McClory, National Catholic Reporter, Wednesday 13 August 2014 ............I recognize the contradictions in " 'Sensus Fifdei' in the Life of the Church," but I agree with Mokrantz that we have here a first step. It would be wonderful indeed if the Synod of Bishops would consider some examples of church doctrines to which believers, "alerted by their sensus fidei ... may deny assent" even though it comes from their "legitimate pastors." Might it not be worthwhile for the assembled bishops to discuss contraception, which is No. 1 on the list of doctrines the laity refuse to accept from their "legitimate pastors" and have refused to accept for more than 60 years? (more) Rome’s abuse prosecutor thanks media for keeping up pressure Extract from Katherine Backler, The Tablet, 13 August 2014 The Vatican’s lead prosecutor on abuse cases has praised the media for keeping sex abuse cases in the public eye. Mgr Robert Oliver, Promoter of Justice for the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, told New Zealand’s Sunday Star-Times: “It’s hard for any group over time to keep up the kind of energy that's needed to do this work. What the media has been doing was to keep that energy up.” Mgr Oliver said that the Church had “much to seek reconciliation for … particularly in not listening to victims.” He spoke of how meeting survivors of sex abuse reminds him of the importance of his work. “You realise what this does to people… how deeply harmed they are.” His view is a far cry from the view held, if not voiced, by some clerics, that claims that clergy had abused minors were attacks on the Church designed to damage its reputation. At the height of weeks of abuse revelations from Germany in 2010, Cardinal Angelo Sodano, Dean of the College of Cardinals, referred to reports of clergy sex abuse as “petty gossip” (more). Extract from Joan Chittister Mary Lou Kownacki. National Catholic Reporter, Friday 8 August 2014 Not too long ago, the world barely noticed nuns, and then only in some anonymous or stereotypical way. Now there is hardly an instance when the world does not notice them. The irony is palpable. When we looked like "nuns," we weren't seen. Now that we look simply like ourselves, everybody sees everything we do. Clearly, witness is at least as powerful as uniforms. And nuns have given clear witness to contemplation, equality, and justice these last years. The problem with that kind of thinking, however, is that people who consider themselves full adults begin to act as if they are. However, there are consequences to witness like that. Next week, for instance, the Leadership Conference of Women Religious will face decisions that will move the question of the agency of women in a man's church either forward or back......(more). Much ado about nothing? The 2014-15 Synod on The Pastoral Challenges of the Family in the Context of Evangelization Extract from Paul Collins, Pearls and Irritations, John Menadue website. 6 August 2014 Around Christmas 2013 there was much ado in the Australian Catholic community about the upcoming Synod of Bishops on the Family called by Pope Francis for October 2014 and 2015. In preparation for this synod, for the first time ever, the laity as well as bishops were consulted and asked to respond to a document that covered a range of doctrinal and practical issues concerning family, personal relationships and gender. Many people put a lot of energy into responding to what was a badly formulated questionnaire within the context of a tight timeframe. I will return to these responses and their impact in a moment. First, some historical context is essential to understand what will probably happen at the synod...... (more). Francis's Friendship with evangelicals holds key to reform zeal Extract from Fr Dwight Longenecker, CathNews, 6 August 2014 ........The 'convergence church' can best be described as a para-church fellowship that is Evangelical, Charismatic, and Catholic. In other words, they embrace and endorse the best of these three Christian traditions. Without an organised structure or denominational bureaucracy, convergence church members move across denominational, national, and traditional boundaries. Loosely knit and forming alliances among sympathetic Christians in many denominations, they are often bright, zealous, positive, and pro-active in their Christian ministry. With an emphasis on a simple gospel message, they also appreciate liturgical worship, practice the gifts of the Holy Spirit, and a profound love of the Sacred Scriptures. The convergence church Christians sit lightly towards established denominations of all kinds and aim to preach and live a basic, radical Christianity. If we want to understand Pope Francis as a reformer, it is his appreciation of this new breed of Evangelicals which may shed most light on him as a person and the aims of his papacy. It is interesting to observe that the Pope has maintained cordial relationships with the leaders of the established Protestant denominations like Justin Welby, the Archbishop of Canterbury, but when he meets with his Evangelical friends he invites them for breakfast or lunch, and sits around with them laughing, talking, and enjoying fellowship for hours (more). Pope's finance chief talks Vatican reform Edited extract from Francis X Rocca, Catholic News Service, 6 August 2014 Pope Francis wants a "poor church for the poor," but that "doesn't necessarily mean a church with empty coffers," said Cardinal George Pell, "and it certainly doesn't mean a church that is sloppy or inefficient or open to being robbed." A month after unveiling a "new economic framework for the Holy See," including a host of changes to the Vatican's financial structures, the cardinal discussed the meaning of those reforms and the challenges to their implementation in an interview with Catholic News Service. Cardinal Pell, a former archbishop of Sydney whom the pope named in February to the new office of prefect of the Secretariat for the Economy, spoke to CNS about a range of issues, including Vatican financial scandals; the need for more transparency, "checks and balances" and oversight by laypeople; efforts to internationalize the Vatican bureaucracy while reducing its overall size; and the relative importance of his own role in the church's central administration, the Roman Curia. The cardinal, who sits on the nine-member Council of Cardinals advising Pope Francis on reform of the Curia and governance of the universal church, also spoke more generally about what the church can learn from, and teach organizations in the secular world (more). Conflict with Vatican shadows upcoming LCWR assembly Extract from Thomas C Fos, National Catholic Reporter, 5 August 2014 Scandals causing more Germans to leave Catholic church, cardinal says Extract from Catholic News Services, NCR, Monday 4 August 2014 A German cardinal warned that the number of Catholics leaving his country's church is "alarmingly high" and urged an end to "scandals and vexations" involving clergy. "There's no doubt these figures must make us think. We've obviously suffered a loss of trust and credibility which has rarely happened so violently," Cardinal Karl Lehmann of Mainz wrote in a column published in the Aug. 3 issue of Faith and Life, the diocese's weekly newspaper. "The church isn't just another club, and all efforts must now be made to prevent more scandals through repentance and renewal," wrote Lehmann, a former president of the German bishops' conference.....(more) Two Contrasting Arguments about the Sexual Abuse Crisis from ATF Press Extract of Book Review of Reckoning: The Catholic Church and Child Sexual Abuse by Kieran Tapsell, Catholica, 4 August 2014 Chris McGillion and Damian Grace's book, Reckoning: The Catholic Church and Child Sexual Abuse is the latest publication to follow the lead given by Pope Benedict XVI in his 2010 Pastoral Letter to the people of Ireland: blame the bishops for the cover up, and deflect attention away from canon law, the popes and the Vatican. The introduction provides the drift...(more) Lay coalition nominates seven clergy to be new Twin Cities archbishop Extract from Brian Roewe, National Catholic Reporter, 31 July 2014 On the same day St. Paul-Minneapolis Archbishop John Nienstedt doubled down on his commitment to remain leader of his apostolic see, Catholics elsewhere in the region discussed his possible successor. The Catholic Coalition for Church Reform announced Wednesday they had identified seven nominees believed to have the ability to lead the archdiocese into its future and likely out of the current clergy abuse scandal ensnaring the archdiocese since September (more). Top 10 quotes from the Vatican's 'sensus fidei' document Extract from Christine Schenk, National Catholic Reporter, 31 July 2014 In June, the International Theological Commission released a groundbreaking document, " 'Sensus Fidei' in the Life of the Church." The statement surprised many because it acknowledges the role played by ordinary Catholics in the growth and development (aka change) in church teaching throughout history and still today. Amazingly, the document also validates the not-infrequent experience of Catholics who find themselves unable to accept certain teachings "if they do not recognize in that teaching the voice of Christ, the Good Shepherd." And it suggests actions to be taken on the part of both laity and clergy to resolve this potential impasse.While necessarily naming the magisterium as having the final say, the document also publicly acknowledges the reality of dissent (through denial of assent -- see No. 6 below) in the church....(more) Flaminia Giovanelli Says Revolution in Church Isn't Just That of Women, But of Laypeople Obstacles riddle synod on the family's path Extracts from Editorial, National Catholic Reporter, 30 July 2014 Church leaders, looking around the contemporary landscape, concluded that marriage is under assault in an unprecedented way, and they're determined to fix it right now. That assessment and desire are apparent throughout the 50-page instrumentum laboris, or working document, for the Synod of Bishops on "The Pastoral Challenges of the Family in the Context of Evangelization," scheduled for this October at the Vatican. The instinct may be understandable, even commendable, but the pathway to fulfilling it is riddled with complex obstacles. The bishops, unfortunately, seem unaware of the most threatening obstacles, many of them inherent in the very culture out of which they work.....(more) Vatican intervenes to remove a priest in Paraguay accused of sex abuse in US Extract from Josephine McKenna Religion News Service, National Catholic Reporter,30 July 2014 The Vatican has ordered a Roman Catholic diocese in eastern Paraguay to remove a priest accused of sex abuse in the U.S. and to restrict the activities of the bishop who hired him. Pope Francis sent a cardinal and an archbishop to investigate Carlos Urrutigoity in the diocese of Ciudad del Este. The two men visited the country July 21-26. The removal is the latest demonstration of the pope's "zero tolerance" of clerical abuse, and it suggests priests suspected of child abuse in one country can no longer find shelter in other countries (more). Church leaders slam 'State sanctioned child abuse' Extract from CathNews,30 July 2014 A group incuding Catholic and Anglican church leaders has accused the Abbott government of 'State sanctioned child abuse' in the immigration detention system, reports The Sydney Morning Herald. The leaders from nine Christian denominations (including Vice Chair, CRA's Sr Suzette Clarke, and Peter Arndt, Executive Officer, Catholic Justice & Peace Commission of Brisbane) have also called for Immigration Miister, Scott Morrison, to step down from his position as guardian for all unaccompaniedmminors. The group, the Australian Churches Refugee Taskforce, will release a report today that commends a raft of recommendations to the Abbott government to improve the wellbeing and treatment of children in onshore and offshore immigration detention centres. The claims were rejected by Mr Morrison. 'Claims of state sanctioned child abuse are shocking and offensive and the Minister rejects these categorically,' a spokeswoman for Mr Morrison said (more). We’ve avoided being absorbed into the Catholic Church like sugar dissolved in water, says ordinariate leader Extract from Liz Dodd, The Tablet, 29 July 2014 The ordinariate has enabled former Anglicans to join the Catholic Church without their spiritual heritage disappearing “like sugar dissolved in water”, its leader said. Mgr Keith Newton told a congregation at Portsmouth Cathedral that Christian unity did not mean uniformity. "Many Catholics are not aware of or have misunderstandings about the Ordinariate," which he said represented “a new expression of Catholicism”. He said that people sometimes asked members of the ordinariate set up by Benedict XVI for Anglicans seeking communion with Rome why they couldn't become "proper Catholics". He said: "What they mean is why can't you just be absorbed into the wider Catholic Church so that what you bring disappears like sugar dissolved in water?" He stressed the importance of sharing a common faith while still preserving some liturgical distinctiveness, citing the Vatican-approved Ordinariate Use Mass, which integrates parts of the Book of Common Prayer. Mgr Newton....was speaking ahead of an ordinariate “exploration day” which will take place in various dioceses on 6 September.Pope Francis last week said he was “praying for the success” of the event (more). Image: Coat of arms of the Very Rev. Harry Entwistle, appointed by Pope Benedict XVI as the first Ordinary of the Personal Ordinariate of Our Lady of the Southern Cross in Australia for former Anglicans. Changes in synod process designed to increase discussion, cardinal says The extraordinary Synod of Bishops on the family will be shorter than a usual synod and will include new rules aimed at helping the bishops really grapple with the issues together, said the general secretary of the synod. "We want a frank, open, civilized discussion," Cardinal Lorenzo Baldisseri told Catholic News Service July 25. The extraordinary synod will meet at the Vatican Oct. 5-19, bringing together the presidents of national bishops' conferences, the heads of Eastern Catholic churches and Vatican officials. The world Synod of Bishops, which will include more bishops -- many elected by their peers -- will meet at the Vatican Oct. 4-25, 2015, to continue the discussion on pastoral approaches to the challenges facing families today. Although the number of participants in the extraordinary synod is smaller, it will include a dozen or more voting members named by the pope, three priests chosen by the Union of Superiors General, a dozen or more expert advisers, about a dozen representatives of other Christian churches and up to 30 observers, more than half comprised of married couples -- who will be encouraged to address the assembly, the cardinal said. Cardinal Baldisseri said he is not surprised by all the attention the synod is getting in the church and the media, because "the problems of the family are what people are dealing with every day." He knows there are "great expectations," and he is pleased about that, although he has cautioned repeatedly that decisions about the church's pastoral approach to families are not expected until after the 2015 synod gathering (more). Extracts from Cindy Wooden, Catholic News Service, National Catholic Reporter, 24 July 2014 Church law has procedures and penalties for effectively dealing with allegations of clerical sexual abuse, but the Vatican is working to revise a section of the Code of Canon Law to make those norms and procedures clearer and, therefore, more effective, said the president of the Pontifical Council for Legislative Texts. "We want to make this delicate material more accessible, more understandable and easier for bishops to apply," Cardinal Francesco Coccopalmerio, council president, told the Vatican newspaper. In the interview published Thursday in L'Osservatore Romano, the cardinal said his office has been working since 2008 to revise "Book VI: Sanctions in the Church," a section of the Code of Canon Law. The penalties and punishments offered by church law should be applied, he said. "In the face of a negative action, which harms the good of a person and therefore the good of the church, penal law expects a reaction, that is the pastor inflicting a canonical penalty," the cardinal said. If a bishop does not react by imposing a punishment on a priest guilty of the crime of sexual abuse, he said, "in some way that would be, or would seem to be, consenting to the evil committed. A negative act necessarily must be condemned; it requires a reaction." (more) Extract from Ruth Gledhill, The Tablet, 24 July 2014 The Catholic Church is to attempt to rebuild relations with sex abuse survivors, who pulled out of talks with the Church when the Church contested an abuse case from the Portsmouth diocese as far as the Court of Appeal. In an attempt to heal divisions, the Church in England and Wales will next year launch a new national advisory board involving victims a well as psychologists and other professionals (more). UK: Ten years of progress but the Church can never apologise enough for abuse Extract from Danny Sullivan, The Tablet, Thursday 24 July 2014 It is ten years since the Church began reporting annually on allegations of abuse received by the Catholic Church in England and Wales and on standards of safeguarding. This year’s report was published this week and shows how far we have moved. The first year, 2004, was two years after Lord Nolan's report that laid out recommendations and a pathway for the Church to follow to become more robust and consistent in dealing with allegations implementing safeguarding protocols. The Cumberlege Review of 2007 reviewed the progress since the Nolan Report and made further recommendations to the bishops of England and Wales, which were accepted in their entirety. This included the setting up of an independent commission which would always be chaired by a layperson. Hence the National Catholic Safeguarding Commission (NCSC) , of which I am chairman.............While we have rightly learned from the secular world about best practice, it is important to recognise that there is a theological heart to safeguarding and that it is integral to ministry. St John XXIII likened the Church to family, friends and neighbours gathered around a village fountain in Italy; all were welcome and there was a care and concern for each individual. This vision was shattered by the abuse scandal, affecting not only victims and survivors but others who had their idealised perception of the Church and the priesthood demolished by such criminal behaviour. The Church has apologised for getting things so wrong in the past but in one sense it can never apologise enough, given the damage to the lives of individual victims and survivors. That is why we have been so determined in sustaining procedures that reflect best practice, including automatically referring any allegations to the authorities. Across the global Church, the Church in England and Wales is held up as a model of good practice in this area (more). Royal Commission to review the Melbourne Response Extract from Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne, 23 July 2014 The Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse has announced that it will be holding a public hearing commencing on Monday, 18 August 2014 to examine the Melbourne Response. The Royal Commission has allowed two weeks for the hearing. The scope and purpose of the hearing is to inquire into how the Melbourne Response has responded to victims of child sexual abuse and allegations of child sexual abuse against personnel of the Archdiocese, the experience of people who have engaged in the Melbourne Response and any other related matters.....(more) Global Perspectives for Local Action: The European Perspective (from "Living the Joy of the Gospel, Archdiocese of Dublin) Dublin Archbishop Diarmid Martin in Melbourne on 14 July 2014, 23 July 2014 Speaking about Pope Francis and his Apostolic Exhortation Evangelii Gaudium, Archbishop Diarmuid Martin addressed a Catholic Leadership Forum of priests, school principals and archdiocesan agency leaders gathered at the Catholic Leadership Centre, Melbourne on 14 July 2014. “A few weeks ago I was speaking with a Parish Priest in my diocese who told me that he was a little worried about his Curate. He said that his curate was a hard worker and that he got on reasonably well with people, but that he had a problem. I asked what this problem was and the Parish Priest replied that the problem was with a person and when I asked further, to my surprise the answer was Pope Francis......(more) Photo: Diarmuid Martin World Economic Forum 2013 Welby asks Catholic and Orthodox Churches not to give up on C of E after women bishops vote Extract from Ruth Gledhill, The Tablet, 21 July 2014 The Archbishop of Canterbury has written to reassure other Churches that the Church of England is continuing on its "quest" for unity after concern and dismay was expressed about the decision to ordain women bishops. Archbishop Justin Welby said Churches "need each other". He said that the vote at General Synod last week was an "occasion of deep rejoicing for many", although "a source of disappointment and concern" for others. He acknowledged that while some Anglican Churches would welcome the result of the vote, “we are also aware that our other ecumenical partners may find this a further difficulty on the journey towards full communion" and that dialogue now faced "new challenges". But Welby emphasised that with “so much troubling our world today”, common witness to the Gospel was of greater importance than ever (more). Pope calls on Middle-East leaders to stop fighting Extract from CathNews, Monday 21 July 2014 The morning after Israel launched a ground invasion of the Gaza Strip, the Pope personally telephoned the two leaders on July 18 to express 'his very serious concerns about the current situation of conflict.' Phoning Peres at 10 in the morning and Abbas at 11.30am Rome time, the Pope told the leaders that the conflict was creating 'numerous victims and was giving way to a state of serious humanitarian emergency,' the Vatican said in a written communique on Friday. The Pope told the two presidents, whom the Pope 'considers to be men of peace and who want peace,' that constant prayer was needed (more). Photo: CathNews Russian Orthodox Church Deeply Regrets Church of England Allowing Women Bishops Extract from Zenit, Moscow, 17 June 2014 The Russian Orthodox Church has expressed its regret over the decision by the Church of England to allow women bishops, saying it is a diversion from the “initial church order” and follows “modern liberal trends.” Metroplitan Hilarion of Volokolamsk, head of the Orthodox church's external relations, told Interfax-Religion July 17: "The Orthodox Church takes a negative stance on so-called female priesthood and female episcopacy. “We see this process as representing the diversion of the Anglican Church and a whole range of Protestant denominations from the initial church order and as following modern liberal trends. We regret that such decisions have been made." He said such a move does not bring Christian communities closer to the unity which ecumenical meetings claim to aspire to. "The space for dialogue is narrowing down at the fault of our partners,” he said, “and it is with great regret that we have to state this." "The presence of women in the episcopate shuts for us the door to any discussion on the issue of succession in the Anglican episcopate," Metropolitan Hilarion said, but added that the Russian Church would continue to maintain dialogue with Anglicans in the hope of its voice being heard (more). Ballarat parish survey reveals desire for bold social change Extract from CathNews (reporting on report in the Ballarat Courier), Wednesday 16 July 2014 A recent survey conducted by St Columba’s Parish in the diocese of Ballarat has found support for the inclusion of homosexuals, gay and lesbian marriage, and couples using alternative means of conceiving, reports More than 220 people were surveyed by the church as part of a worldwide review on Catholic families being conducted by the Vatican. St Columba’s is one of 51 parishes that make up the Diocese of Ballarat. The survey found almost 50 per cent of parishioners supported gay and lesbian couples getting married in a civil ceremony, almost 50 per cent were supportive of homosexual people having sexual relations and about 80 per cent of people were in favour of couples using alternative means for birthing a child including IVF and surrogacy. Parish leadership team member, Derek Streulens, supported the results and said members of the parish were not surprised by the findings. 'I’ve always found the Catholic Church to be a rather broad umbrella in which a multitude of views are contained,' he said. 'It seems to me that some non-Catholic commentators see Catholics as unthinking automatons blindly following decrees from the top. I don’t think it’s ever been like that, to be honest. People have always made up their own minds and continue to do so.' (more) Photo: St Columba's Parish Church Ballarat Extracts from Cathnews, 15 July 2014 The Truth, Justice and Healing Council says that, historically, four per cent of priests in Australia have been paedophiles, double the number which, according to an Italian report, the Pope believes to be in the Church, says ABC. Pope Francis has reportedly described paedophile priests as a leprosy infecting the Church, saying the problem will be met with severity. 'It's a no-nonsense, a zero-tolerance attitude,' Francis Sullivan the head of the Truth, Justice and Healing Council, said of the Pontiff's approach. 'He is probably ruffling feathers within the Vatican and good on him.' The Italian newspaper La Repubblica reported Pope Francis as having said in an interview that 2 per cent of clergy............were paedophiles...........In Australia, the Truth, Justice and Healing Council is compiling statistics on abusers for the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse.'It's 4 per cent of men who have been a priest in the Catholic Church at some point in Australia have been sex abusers,' Mr Sullivan said. He emphasises the statistics are historical and do not include serving priests (more). Photo: Francis Sulli8van, CathNews Francis interview: two per cent in the Church are paedophiles Extracts from Hannah Riberts (in Rome), The Tablet, 14 July 2014 Pope Francis has reportedly claimed that "paedophilia inside the Church is at the level of two per cent" and includes “priests and even bishops and cardinals”. In an interview with the Italian newspaper la Repubblica he said that the statistic was provided to him by advisers in the Vatican.......He denounced the corruption of a child as "the most terrible and unclean thing imaginable", vowing to "confront it with the seriousness it demands"........He said the figures were supposed to reassure him, "but I have to say that they do not reassure me by any means. On the contrary I find them deeply concerning.......Many more are guilty of covering it up by keeping quiet, he said, adding, "This state of affairs is intolerable and it’s my intention to tackle it with the seriousness it deserves".......The Vatican quickly cautioned against taking the Pope's quotes at face value, and claimed the interviewer, Eugenio Scalfari, did not record the "conversation", but relied on memory.....Vatican spokesman Fr Federico Lombardi said that the newspaper’s overall message was faithful to Francis' words, saying it "captured the spirit" of the conversation. But he denied that Francis had said that there were some cardinals who were paedophiles (more). Catholic Bishops' Statement on Women Bishops in Church of England Extract from Archbishop Bernard Longley*, Zenit, 14 July 2014 The Catholic Church remains fully committed to its dialogue with the Church of England and the Anglican Communion. For the Catholic Church, the goal of ecumenical dialogue continues to be full visible ecclesial communion. Such full ecclesial communion embraces full communion in the episcopal office. The decision of the Church of England to admit women to the episcopate therefore sadly places a further obstacle on the path to this unity between us. Nevertheless we are committed to continuing our ecumenical dialogue, seeking deeper mutual understanding and practical cooperation wherever possible (more). *Chairman of the Department for Dialogue and Unity, Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales. Church of England votes for women bishops; move seen as ecumenical snag Extract from Cindy Wooden (Vatican City), National Catholic Reporter, 14 July 2014 The General Synod of the Church of England voted Monday to authorize the ordination of women as bishops and approved motions pledging to respect and work with people who believe that, theologically, the vote was a mistake. Before the vote, Archbishop Justin Welby of Canterbury, spiritual leader of the Anglican Communion, told the synod that "to pass this legislation is to commit ourselves to an adventure in faith and hope. Like all adventures, it carries dangers ... uncertainties and for success will require integrity and courage." One of those uncertainties is its impact on the search for Christian unity. The Roman Catholic, Orthodox and Eastern Orthodox churches teach that since Jesus chose only men as his apostles, only men can be ordained priests and bishops (more). Extracts of review of 'Potiphar's Wife' by Brian Johnstone CSsR*, Social Policy Connections, Monday 14 July 2014 The author’s conclusion is that by imposing certain requirements of canon law since 1922, six popes and their Roman Curial advisers allowed enormous damage to be done to little children. His argument is that the key to the problem of the inadequate treatment of child sex abuse by the Catholic Church is the confidentiality that has been imposed on Bishops and others by a number of Vatican documents. The obligation to secrecy is still in force. This has effectively prevented Bishops from reporting abuse cases to police, which is the only effective way of protecting children from further abuse.............As far as I have been able to discover through my own research on this topic, the Vatican document requiring secrecy was not a significant factor in the discussions of the Australian Bishops on how to deal with child sex-abuse. The major problems were the refusal of Roman Congregations to respond to the Bishops’ requests and the inadequacy of the relevant provisions of Canon Law. These issues are well documented by Tapsell. For this reason the book deserves careful study by anyone who is concerned with these vitally important matters. Read full review here. Dr Brian Johnstone CSsR has been professor of moral theology at the Alphonsian Academy in Rome and Catholic University in Washington. He is currently in Australia researching and writing. Rolf Harris and the Vatican. Extract from Kieran Tapsell, Pearls and Irritations, John Mendue Website, 9 July 2014 (read full article here) Rolf Harris, aged 84, was found guilty of sexual assaults on children in the long distant past, and was sentenced to 5 years jail. The judge took into account his age in determining the sentence. Many people still thought it was inadequate, and there is talk of an appeal by the Attorney General to increase the term. The policy widely accepted in society and reflected by the courts is that the sexual abuse of children should be punished severely, even if it occurred a long time ago, and the convicted man is in his eighties. That view seems to have little traction in the Vatican. The harshest punishment that the Vatican can impose on a priest under canon law is his dismissal from the priesthood, whose secular equivalent would be striking off the rolls or register for a lawyer or doctor (more). Vatican Announces Curia Reform Plans Extracts from Zenit, Wednesday 9 July 2014 Pope Francis’ first substantial reforms to the Roman Curia were revealed at the Vatican today. The initial changes focus on four areas: the Administration of the Patrimony of the Apostolic See (APSA) which handles assets belonging to the Holy See, the Vatican’s pension fund, the Holy See’s media operations, and the Institute for Works of Religion (IOR), commonly known as the ‘Vatican Bank’ (more). NSPCC wants covering up abuse to be criminal offence Extract from Sanchia Berg and Meirion Jones, BBC Today and BBC Panorama, BBC News UK, Wednesday 9 July 2014 The man leading a review into how the Home Office handled historical allegations of child abuse has said people who cover up such crimes should be prosecuted. NSPCC chief Peter Wanless also said there should be a duty on institutions like hospitals, children's homes and boarding schools to report abuse. The charity had previously opposed all forms of so-called mandatory reporting. New inquiries into child abuse could consider possible law changes (more). Photo: BBC News Pope apologises, asks for forgiveness from abuse victims Extract from CathNews, Tuesday 8 July 2014 Speaking at Mass in the chapel of his Vatican residence, the Pope said: 'There is no place in the Church's ministry for those who commit these abuses, and I commit myself not to tolerate harm done to a minor by any individual, whether a cleric or not. All bishops must carry out their pastoral ministry with the utmost care in order to help foster the protection of minors, and they will be held accountable.' He compared child abuse by priests and bishops to 'a sacrilegious cult' and said that such crimes had 'a toxic effect' on faith and hope in God. 'Some of you have held fast to faith,' he said, 'while for others the experience of betrayal and abandonment has led to a weakening of faith in God. Your presence here speaks of the miracle of hope, which prevails against the deepest darkness. Surely it is a sign of God's mercy that today we have this opportunity to encounter one another, to adore God, to look in one another's eyes and seek the grace of reconciliation.' Six abuse survivors – two each from Ireland, Britain and Germany – attended the Mass. The Pope received them afterwards at his residence, the Domus Sanctae Marthae. Vatican spokesman Fr Federico Lombardi said Francis spent 30 minutes with each of the six visitors (more). In an address to priests in Sydney, the CEO of the Truth Justice and Healing Council, Francis Sullivan, has called for 'surgery on Church culture.' Mr Sullivan has told more than 25 priests responsible for the pastoral care and support of clergy that local parish priests are the most sustainable and credible links into the Catholic community. Speaking at the National Conference of Directors of Clergy Life and Ministry at the Mary MacKillop centre in North Sydney, Mr Sullivan said priests and clergy need to help parishioners understand what the Church has done and is doing to protect children. 'It is incumbent on the clergy to tell the whole truth about the history and impact of clerical sexual abuse on survivors and on the Church,' Mr Sullivan said.'It is the parish priests who still have the credibility and the respect of parishioners. You are believed when you talk about what the Church is doing and how we are responding to the Commission............Mr Sullivan said local priests must help the Church 'work through the inertia' and help do 'the surgery on Church culture' so that the Church can face up to the crisis and come through the Commission stronger and more credible (more). Photo: CathNews Pope meets sex abuse victims, says clergy actions cloaked in complicity Extracts from Carol Glatz Catholic News Service, National Catholic Reporter. 8 July 2014 Asking for forgiveness, Pope Francis told abuse survivors that "despicable actions" caused by clergy have been hidden for too long and had been "camouflaged with a complicity that cannot be explained." "There is no place in the church's ministry for those who commit these abuses, and I commit myself not to tolerate harm done to a minor by any individual, whether a cleric or not," and to hold all bishops accountable for protecting young people, the pope said Monday during a special early morning Mass for six survivors of abuse by clergy...................."It is something more than despicable actions. It is like a sacrilegious cult, because these boys and girls had been entrusted to the priestly charism in order to be brought to God. And those people sacrificed them to the idol of concupiscence," the pope said............He begged for forgiveness "for the sins of omission on the part of the church leaders who did not respond adequately to reports of abuse," adding that the neglect not only caused the victims more suffering, "it endangered other minors who were at risk.".................The Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors, which the pope established in December, met Sunday at the Vatican. They discussed expanding the number of members, especially from Africa and Asia, before the next meeting in October, Lombardi said. The commission also said it was necessary to set up a permanent and staffed "working office" at the Vatican, he said. The commission, which currently has eight members, including a survivor of clerical sex abuse, mental health professionals and experts in civil and church law, is tasked with laying out a pastoral approach to helping victims and preventing abuse................In his homily, the pope said he was looking to the commission to help the church "develop better policies and procedures" for protecting minors. "We will continue to exercise vigilance in priestly formation," the pope told the victims, and "we need to do everything in our power to ensure that these sins have no place in the church." Just as Jesus told Peter to feed his sheep, the pope said, "I would add, 'Let no wolf enter the sheepfold.' " (more) Archbishop Diarmuid Martin's Speech at Anglophone Conference on Sexual Abuse Extract from Zenit, Rome, 8 July 2014 (from an address to the Pontifical Irish College in Rome on 7 July). ..........The answers to all these multiple wounds will not come from slick public relations gestures or even from repeated words of apology. They will come from creating a new vision of a healing Church. A healing Church will not be from the outset a perfect Church. The Church must first of all recognise within her own life how compromise and insensitivity and wrong decisions have damaged the witness of Church. The art of healing is learned only in humility. Arrogance is never the road towards healing. Healing is not something we can package and hand over safe and sound to someone else and then we can go off safely and happily on our own way. Healing involves journeying together. The healer needs humility and personal healing if he or she is to journey really with those who are wounded. The duration of the process of healing is not measured by the time on our watch, but by the watch and the time of the other........(more) Cardinal Pell to Update Press on Holy See's New Economic Framework Extracts from Zenit, Vatican City, 8 July 2014 Cardinal George Pell, who heads the Vatican's new Secretariat for the Economy, is to hold his first press conference tomorrow since his appointment to the position earlier this year. The conference, whose theme will be the "New Economic Framework of the Holy See", is expected to reveal details of the second phase of reform of the Institute for the Works of Religion (IOR), commonly known as the 'Vatican Bank', and other relevant reforms..........“As set out in May 2013, we have focused on making the IOR compliant with financial regulation, safer and more transparent, so as to create options for the Holy Father to decide on the future of the Institute," said Ernst von Freyburg, president of the IOR's Board of Superintendence (more). Although the head of the Royal Commission Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse, Justice Peter McClellan, had personally asked the Vatican for information relating to sex abuse complaints against Catholic priests in Australia the Vatican had refused to hand over documents, other than in relation to two cases. Read article here The future leader of the Church in Ireland seeks new language for church teaching on sex Extract from Sarah Mac Donald in Dublin, The Tablet, 4 July 2014 The future leader of the Church in Ireland has said he does not believe change in the Church’s fundamental teachings on marriage and human sexuality are likely to follow the extraordinary synod on the family in October.However, Archbishop Eamon Martin told The Tablet that he believes the Church may need to look for a new language to communicate its “complex and very deep concepts” on marriage and human sexuality.He said the feedback to the Vatican’s questionnaire on the family had indicated a “certain deficit of understanding among people and even priests about the roots of the Church’s teaching” specifically in relation to natural law. The Co-adjustor Archbishop of Armagh said he could not detect in the synod working document, the instrumentum laboris, “any signal that change was in the pipeline”, though he did detect “a pastoral openness” to looking at the Church’s strictness on access to sacraments (more). A theologian discusses the new ecclesial movements Edited Extract from CathNews, Friday 4 July 2014 Will Francis still be the media’s darling after the Synod on the Family? Extracts from Ben Ryan, Eureka Street, 3 July 2014 Francis has a real and instinctive gift for reaching out to people and it has been met with astonishing positivity by the Western media. His personal phone calls to people who have written to him cause a particular interest. One, to an unmarried mother promising to baptise her child if the parish priest refused to, was almost universally warmly received. Another though, in which he allegedly told a divorcee she could receive Communion led to a great deal of shock and criticism from parts of the Catholic press (though not from the majority of the mainstream non-Catholic media). His comment “who am I to judge” to journalists on the subject of gay priests was seized on as an example of a new, liberal Pope who would bring radical change to the Church. These separate incidents highlight a major potential problem for Francis in the coming months. A synod on the family will be held in Rome in October. Its working document known as the instrumentum laboris has already been published on the back of a consultation with Catholics around the world. The press coverage in papers like the Daily Telegraph has raised expectations that this could be what liberal commentators have been calling for – an end to “rigid teaching” on sex, contraception, marriage and homosexuality. Perhaps the Church will at last realise how few of its adherents follow its teachings and come to terms with the modern world. They will be disappointed, however, as Francis must already know. To be unambiguously clear; there will be no reversal of the views of the Church on the central importance of marriage and the opposition to divorce, co-habitation, contraception or the recognition of homosexual marriages. What there will be discussion on is the pastoral role of education and mercy in reaching out to a society which does not necessarily share those positions (more). Catholic Church needs to show more than legal compliance Extract from Michael Kelly SJ, Pearls and Irritations, John Menadue website, Thursday 3 July 2014 It’s been a big few weeks for the clergy and their dealings with the police across the world. In legal matters in countries covering four continents – India, the Dominican Republic, Italy and Australia – clerics are being held to account by police and civil courts (more). Invited or not, here they come Extract from Joan Chittester, National Catholic Reporter, 3 July 2014 Watch the TV ads carefully these days. You may not have much interest in the particular product they're selling at any particular time, but if you listen carefully, you can certainly learn a lot there about ecclesiastical physics. One advert teaches: "A body at rest tends to stay at rest; a body in motion tends to stay in motion." And another one says: "Every action creates a reaction." So there you have it. That's exactly what's going on in the church right now. Whole bodies of people are moving forward while the bishops stay at rest. Most important of all, when the hierarchical church finally called for a response from the church at large about something important -- marriage, family, relationships -- material poured out of every lay group in the country. The data were clear: The laity was eager to respond. They wanted to be part of the conversation. They wanted to give back to the church the fruits of the sacrament the church has bestowed on them. But not in one area alone or from one group alone (more). To understand Pope Francis 'we must think like Latin Americans', prefect of CDF says Extract from Christa Pongratz-Lippitt, The Tablet, 3 July 2014 The main aim of Pope Francis’s pontificate is to draw the world’s attention to the poor and to change the global structures that lead to poverty, the Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith said in a long interview last week. Speaking to the Austrian Pontifical Missions magazine Alle Welt, Cardinal Gerhard Müller insisted that it was not possible to truly understand Pope Francis unless one could understand the Latin American “mindset”. Cardinal Muller has long experience of Peru over several decades and is a close friend of the Peruvian liberation theologian, Gustavo Gutierrez. The Western world would have to learn to see problems from the Pope’s point of view, which was very different from the European one, Cardinal Müller said. On account of his many visits to Latin America, he was very familiar with the way Pope Francis thought. It was very good for the world Church not always to see things through European eyes, the cardinal said, and to discover how other people saw Europe (more). The contours of an extended child abuse royal commission (read full article here) Extracts from Frank Brennan SJ, Eureka Street, Wednesday 2 July 2014 On Monday, the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses of Child Sexual Abuse produced its first interim report to government. The commission has asked the Abbott Government for a two-year extension until December 2017 and an additional $104 million to complete its task.........................In the next three and a half years with this royal commission, the Catholic Church needs to be more proactive, more on the front foot, more unashamedly committed to truth, justice, transparency and compassion, regardless of what the royal commission might recommend and regardless of the continuing barbs of those sections of the media which are anti-Catholic. The Church must have the confidence that in the end the truth will out. Moving forward in hope with a commitment to assist and protect vulnerable children, the church needs fearless legal advisers to keep reminding church leaders about the fine ideals of scripture and the Church tradition which should animate, inform and shape every public utterance before the commission, no matter how adverse to the church witness’s personal self-interest (more). Photo: Eureka Street Pedophile Brother sent overseas, told to 'stay there' Extract from CathNews, Wednesday 2 July 2014 A pedophile Brother has told the Royal Commission that the then-leader of his Order alerted him to a police investigation, sent him overseas four days later and subsequently told him to 'stay there and live your life.' Gregory Sutton, a former Marist Brother ultimately convicted of 67 sexual offences against 15 children and released from prison in 2008, told the Commission the then-head of the Marist Brothers, Alexis Turton, met him in 1989 and told him there was a police investigation into his activities at a western Sydney school. Brother Turton directed Sutton to leave the country four days later, travelling first to Chicago and then to Canada for 'assessment' at an institute used by the Church, Sutton told the Commission..........The Commission has also heard Brother Turton received several previous warnings about Sutton's behaviour, including one occasion when Sutton himself admitted to having been 'sexually improper' with a boy, who later committed suicide. Brother Turton, who stepped down from his position as Sydney Provincial of the Marist Brothers in 1995, told the commission last month that he did not report this to the police in order to respect the wishes of the boy's family. He also said he did not 'have any recollection' of alerting Sutton to the police investigation into his alleged abuse (more). Bishops must be servants and slaves, Cardinal says during ordination of new Bishop of Brentwood Extract from Liz Dodd, The Tablet, 2 July 2014 Cardinal Vincent Nichols told bishops to reject power and prestige during a ceremony to ordain the new Bishop of Brentwood, Alan Williams on Tuesday. Echoing Pope Francis, the Cardinal Archbishop of Westminster said that bishops should be servants of their congregations and slaves to the Word of God. Outlining bishops’ three priorities – which he said were prayer, servanthood and the Word of God – Cardinal Nichols told the congregation at the Cathedral Church of St Mary and St Helen on Tuesday: “In a bishop, said Pope Francis, there can be 'no psychology of princes'. He is always to be a servant.” He called on bishops to be voices “of the truth of our faith in the public arenas of our society” (more). Council of Cardinals focuses on another Vatican bank shakeup Edited Extracts from Joshua J. McElwee, National Catholic Reporter, 2 July 2014 The group of cardinals advising Pope Francis on reforming the Catholic church's central bureaucracy has again focused its attention on the church's sometimes controversial financial practices, ahead of the expected resignation of the head of the so-called Vatican bank. The Council of Cardinals, a group of prelates appointed by Francis last year as a sort of advisory "kitchen cabinet," is meeting Tuesday-Friday at the Vatican . This week's meeting, the group's fifth, was anticipated to include discussion on a wide reshaping of the Vatican bureaucracy, known as the Roman Curia. But a press release from the Vatican on Wednesday focused mostly on financial matters and the Bank, an independent institution known formally as the Institute for the Works of Religion (IOR)............That council, known simply as the Council for the Economy, is part of a wide reform by Francis to create a new central authority at the Vatican for control of financial and administrative issues. It is pursuing its work alongside a new Vatican Secretariat for the Economy, which is being headed by Australian Cardinal George Pell. Next week, said the Vatican statement, "there will be a significant press conference ... relating to the scope of the powers of the Council and the Secretariat for the Economy, including even the IOR." Before next week's expected economic shakeup, the Council of Cardinals is to continue its meetings Thursday and Friday. Francis, the Vatican said, is taking part in all of the meetings (more). Bishop warns Eucharist is getting 'perilously scarce' Extract from Christa Pongratz-Lippitt, The Tablet, 1 July 2014 Bishop Helmut Krätzl, a former auxiliary in Vienna, has warned that the Eucharist is in danger of “drying up”. In two interviews on the occasion of his diamond jubilee as a priest, he called on bishops to take up the Pope’s request “to make courageous suggestions” in order to stop this happening. “We are silently accepting a scarcity of the Eucharist, which is already to a certain extent perilous, because we are not prepared to change admission to the priesthood. In my opinion that is irresponsible. We must open new doors including discussing that of priestly celibacy”, Bishop Krätzl said. The Eucharist should be available where people lived, he insisted. He did not agree with bishops who said the Eucharist should be worth travelling a certain distance to (more). How the Bishop was forced to resign because he played too much for the local team Extract from Frank Brennan SJ, Pearls and Irritations, John Menadue website, Tuesday 1 July 2014 I have followed the Bishop Bill Morris saga closely. My one new insight from reading Bill’s book – “Benedict, Me and the Cardinals Three” – is that he was sacked because he was too much a team player with his local church. By sacking their local leader, the Romans hoped to shatter the morale and direction of those who had planned the pastoral strategies of a country diocese stretched to the limits as a Eucharistic community soon to be deprived of priests in the Roman mould. He was the consummate team player who planned his pastoral strategies in close consultation with his presbyterate and the various consultative organs he set up in the diocese. As the people of Toowoomba continue to live faithful lives as Catholics, they still hold Bill in high esteem; meanwhile all the people in Rome are now gone. As Peter Dorfield, Bill’s Vicar General says, it was ‘a poor decision based on poor advice’ (more). Royal commission into child sex abuse releases interim report The royal commission investigating institutional responses to child sex abuse has handed down its interim report, but says it has not yet compiled enough information to make any recommendations. It is calling for an additional two years and $104 million in extra funding to complete the 70 public hearings they have identified as "essential". So far, only 13 of the hearings have been held. The commission has also conducted thousands of private sessions with individuals, but it says there are around 3,000 more on a waiting list. The interim report says that despite legal obligations to report child abuse, it remains significantly under-reported in Australia. The royal commission says it has identified several main themes from the many personal stories it has heard.The themes include repeated abuse and multiple perpetrators, barriers to reporting the abuse and adults that have systematically failed to protect children........The chief executive of the Catholic Church's Truth, Justice and Healing Council, Francis Sullivan, is backing the commission's call for an extension. "It's essential ... this is the opportunity for our community to get to the real reasons why children haven't been safe in institutions," he said (more). Read the royal commission's interim report here. Family Synod: Next Step and Prospects Prospects Extracts from David Timbs, Catholics for Renewal News commentary, Monday 30 June 2014 (full paper here) On Friday June 27, the Vatican published the Instrumentum Laboris (Working Document) for the October Extraordinary Synod on the Family. The ordinary members of this extraordinary Synod are a representative body of Bishops from the five continents. They are the ones with a deliberative vote. There are others, clerics, religious and laity, who have been invited to participate in the Synod, will join in subgroup discussions and even address the plenary meetings. There has been a great deal of criticism about makeup of participants for this Synod. Specifically many people are commenting that Pope Francis has missed a opportunity to make the composition of the Synod more representative of the actual People of God but to widen the avenues for participation, even voting, by non-bishops. This is a major negative especially since the Synod will be addressing a number of issues which have proven contentious for decades.............While sections of the document acknowledge the issues of authority and non-reception, the overwhelming number of responses indicate that the Catholic people have ‘not understood’ Church teaching, have been confused by outside influences or the Magisterium (Popes and Bishops) has not taught Catholic doctrine properly or effectively. The major challenge for the Magisterium continues to be that the Catholic laity heard the teaching loud and clear in the first place and rejected it. This invites an adult to adult mature and Christ-like conversation between the Catholic laity and its Leaders. The hierarchy of truths comes to mind. The full paper can be read here Influential Catholic economic theorists, philosophers and business people meet Extract from David Timbs, Catholics for Renewal News commentary, 30 June 2014 (full paper here) A group of influential Catholic economic theorists, philosophers and business people met in Grand Rapids, Michigan, two weeks ago for the annual Acton Institute Conference. The Institute was co-founded in 1990 by Fr Robert Sirico and Kris Alan Mauren. The Acton Institute for the Study of Religion and Liberty is essentially a Catholic think-tank on history, philosophy, theology, economics and ethics from a neoconservative perspective. (See here) The Institute has been cautiously critical of Catholic socio-economic teaching, especially the great Social Encyclicals since Leo XIII. This unease has become further elevated since Pope Francis has begun regularly to level rather direct and detailed criticism of free market capitalism. Follow the links to more discussion on what Pope Francis is saying and what the responses are to his restatements on Catholic Social teaching. [more] Image:Rodin and co. max2c.com The Nestor Case Extracts from Kieran Tapsell, Pearls and Irritations, John Menadue website, Monday 30 June 2014 This well researched book is good but disturbing reading which offers positive suggestions for the process of healing the Church. Potiphar's Wife is available now or shortly will be at major quality book outlets in Australia and overseas. One exception is that it is reportedly unavailable from the Pauline bookshop in Sydney. The recent Sydney launch of this book may be viewed online here. Council of Cardinals to continue Curia review in upcoming meeting Extract from National Catholic Reporter, Joshua J McElwee, 28 June 2014 The group of eight cardinals advising Pope Francis on reforming the governance of the Catholic church is set to meet with him for the fifth time, presumably to more seriously consider an overall blueprint for a new structure of the Vatican's central bureaucracy. While the cardinals have not indicated exactly what the group will be focusing on during its July 1-4 meetings, the Vatican signaled in an April statement that the prelates have already finished a review of the Vatican's nine main governmental bodies, known as congregations, and are now proceeding to review its 12 auxiliary bodies, known as councils (more). Synod working paper is boring and joyless Extracts from Thomas Reese, National Catholic Reporter, 27 June 2014 A document "intended to provide an initial reference point" for the October Synod of Bishops on the family was released Thursday at the Vatican. The document acknowledges that "the primary task of the church is to proclaim the beauty of the vocation to love," but there is little beautiful or inspiring in this document. If married life is as boring and joyless as this document, I am glad I am celibate..........Despite the numerous problems cited by the working paper, it still has hope for "a new springtime for the family," which it believes will be led by young people who "see a value in a stable, enduring relationship and express a real desire to marry and form a family." How this jives with the fact that young people are delaying marriage, hooking up, practicing birth control, and living together before getting married remains to be seen. (more). Vatican document for synod on family balances mercy and cultural blame Extract from Joshua McElwee, National Catholic Reporter, 26 June 2014 Struggles faced by faithful around the world in following Catholic teachings stem mainly from ineffective education in those teachings and the pervasive effect of a relativistic culture, states the guiding document for an upcoming Synod of Bishops on the family. The document, anticipated by many Catholics as a barometer for what to expect from the synod, also strongly reinforces church teachings regarding the indissolubility of marriage, the restriction of marriage to heterosexual couples, and that partners must be open to having children. At the same time, the document states, the church must respond with mercy to the struggles of families to adhere to sometimes controversial teachings -- like those prohibiting divorce and remarriage, contraception, cohabitation, and same-sex marriage -- and "support her children on the path of reconciliation." (more) Synod document cites cultural and economic threats to family Edited Extracts from Francis X Rocca, Catholic News Service, 26 June 2014 The working document for the October 2014 extraordinary Synod of Bishops offers a picture of the Catholic Church today struggling to preach the Gospel and transmit moral teachings amid a "widespread cultural, social and spiritual crisis" of the family. The 75-page "instrumentum laboris," published by the Vatican June 26, is supposed to "provide an initial reference point" for discussion at the synod, whose theme will be the "pastoral challenges of the family in the context of evangelization.".................The document is based principally on comments solicited in a questionnaire last November from national bishops' conferences around the world. But it also reflects comments sent directly to the Vatican by individuals and groups responding to the questionnaire, which was widely published on the Internet. Topics in the working document include some of the most contested and controversial areas of Catholic moral teaching on the family, including contraception, divorce and remarriage, same-sex marriage, premarital sex and in vitro fertilization. Bishops' conferences responding to the questionnaire attributed an increasing disregard of such teachings to a variety influences, including "hedonistic culture; relativism; materialism; individualism; (and) the growing secularism." Recognizing that most Catholic couples do not follow the church's teaching against the use of artificial birth control, the document says that "for many Catholics the concept of 'responsible parenthood' encompasses the shared responsibility in conscience to choose the most appropriate method of birth control." The document says the use of natural family planning, condoned by the church, encourages responsible decisions about family size while respecting human fertility and "the dignity of the sexual relationship between husband and wife." Bishops expressed particular concern with the "ideology called gender theory, according to which the gender of each individual turns out to be simply the product of social conditioning and needs" without "any correspondence to a person's biological sexuality." The bishops see a need for better teaching of "Christian anthropology," the document states. Noting that contemporary culture dismisses or misunderstands theories of "natural law," which seek to "found human rights on reason," bishops increasingly prefer to invoke Scripture in support of Catholic moral teaching (more). Photo: Pufui Pc Pifpef I . Synod Secretary Genera Cardinal Lorenzo Baldisseri releasing the 75-page working document for the upcoming Synod of Bishops on the family called for a world day of prayer on Sept 28 to prepare for the event, Vatican to release family synod preparatory document Thursday The Vatican is set to release on Thursday the document that will guide Catholic bishops around the world in preparing for a global October meeting on the church's family pastoral practices. The meeting, known as a Synod of Bishops, has raised hopes that Pope Francis may be considering a change in the church's practices in a number of areas, particularly regarding the admittance of divorced and remarried persons to communion. Thursday will see the release of the synod's Instrumentum Laboris, a working document prepared for the meeting by the Vatican's office for the synod after a worldwide consultation unusual for the breadth of comment it encouraged prelates to seek from priests and laity. The Vatican is to release the document at noon Rome time (6 a.m. Eastern), after a press conference with three cardinals -- Lorenzo Baldisseri, the secretary general of the synod office; Péter Erdő, archbishop of Esztergom-Budapest in Hungary and the prelate who will be responsible for guiding the discussions during the synod; and André Vingt-Trois, archbishop of Paris and a delegate to the meeting -- and one archbishop: Bruno Forte, the synod's special secretary (more). Extract fron Cathnews, 25 June 2014 There was much confusion about canon law procedures concerning the dismissal of a priest from the priesthood, Adelaide's Archbishop Philip Wilson told a Royal Commission hearing yesterday, the Daily Mail reports. It took almost 20 years for the Pope to defrock an Australian priest for allegedly indecently assaulting a boy, the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse heard. And when his bishop banned him from saying Mass in public after complaints against the priest, the Vatican overturned the decision. John Gerard Nestor was found guilty in court but was later acquitted of indecent assault charges against the boy in the NSW Diocese of Wollongong. A series of investigations ensued, involving canon lawyers, Australian church processes, the NSW ombudsman, and the highest echelons of the Vatican. Ultimately, Pope Benedict XVI dismissed Nestor from the priesthood in October, 2008 (more). US Archbishop hopes settlement brings victims closure, chance to heal Extract from Catholic News Service, National Catholic Reporter, 25 June 2014 Seattle Archbishop J. Peter Sartain said Tuesday that he hopes the settlement of 30 claims of sexual abuse will bring victims "closure and allow them to continue the process of healing." The Seattle archdiocese settled cases involving abuse that the victims said was carried out by members of the Christian Brothers at two institutions managed by the order in western Washington. The most recent cases in question were nearly 30 years old and some dated back almost 60 years, according to an archdiocesan press release announcing the settlement, which totaled $12.1 million (more). US 'Vatican II priests' meet, express new hope Extracts from Thomas C. Fox, National Catholic Reporter, 24 June 2014 An estimated 225 priests from the Association of U.S. Catholic Priests have gathered in St. Louis for a three-day conference aimed at carrying church renewal forward. The theme of the assembly is "Revelation in our Lives and Time," drawn from the Second Vatican Council document Dei Verbum, the primary Vatican II document on Scripture. The group was formed following an Aug. 25, 2011, meeting of 27 self-described "Vatican II priests" at Mundelein Seminary in Illinois. The organization's inaugural assembly in June 2012 drew approximately 240 delegates from 55 dioceses to St. Leo University, northeast of Tampa, Fla.....The mood among these priests, whose average age is 69, is generally upbeat in the wake of the election of Pope Francis last year. A life-sized Francis cutout is a major draw with the priests, who snap photos between assemblies. "We feel renewed ... confirmed," said retired Chicago archdiocese priest Leonard Dubi, who said he and other priests of his generation have felt "discarded" by bishops and the younger conservative priests. With a new "patron" in Rome, Dubi said, these priests, some retired, some soon to be retiring, feel uplifted."We are not reinventing the wheel," one priest said. "We are committed to implementing Vatican II." (more) Photo: Capuchin Franciscan Michael Crosby addresses assembly (Photo by Tom Fox) Why Bishop Morris was sacked Extracts from Frank Brennan, Eureka Street, 23 June 2014 (full article here) Given our deeply held belief in the primacy of Eucharist for the identity, continuity and life of each parish community, we may well need to be much more open towards other options of ensuring that Eucharist may be celebrated. Several responses have been discussed internationally, nationally and locally • ordaining married, single or widowed men who are chosen and endorsed by their local parish community • welcoming former priests, married or single back to active ministry • ordaining women, married or single • recognising Anglican, Lutheran and Uniting Church Orders While we continue to reflect carefully on these options we remain committed to actively promoting vocations to the current celibate male priesthood and open to inviting priests from overseas. If he was sacked for what he wrote in his Advent letter about the possible ordination of women, married priests, and recognition of other orders 'Rome willing', there would have been no need for Archbishop Chaput later to make his visit and his report. And let's remember that Morris had published a clarification of his pastoral letter on his website saying: In my Advent Pastoral Letter of 2006 I outlined some of the challenges facing the diocese into the future. In that letter I made reference to various options about ordination that were and are being talked about in various places, as part of an exercise in the further investigation of truth in these matters. Unfortunately some people seem to have interpreted that reference as suggesting that I was personally initiating options that are contrary to the doctrine and discipline of the Church. As a bishop I cannot and would not do that and I indicated this in the local media at the time. Catholic Church – catch-up and cover-up Extracts from John Mendaue blog, Pearls and Irritations, 19 June 2014 The sad saga of the Catholic Church in its response to sexual abuse goes on and on and on. Pope Francis is yet to grasp the nettle. Invariably it is people outside the hierarchy and clergy who are responding and calling for action. The latest has been former NSW Premier, Barry O’Farrell, who spoke in the NSW Parliament on this issue on 17 June 2014. He called on Fr Brian Lucas, the General Secretary of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference to be stood down in light of the report of the Cunneen Commission into alleged cover-up of child sexual abuse in the Catholic Diocese of Maitland/Newcastle. Barry O’Farrell has a particular interest in this issue as he had appointed the Cunneen Commission............As Fr Frank Brennan has said “Clearly the church itself cannot be left alone to get its house in order.” (more). Priests criticize head of doctrinal congregation for rebuke of LCWR Extracts from Catholic News Service, National Catholic Reporter, 17 June 2014 The Association of U.S. Catholic Priests in a letter to Pope Francis criticized the head of the Vatican Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith for his recent comments chastising the Leadership Conference of Women Religious. The Seattle-based association, which claims 1,000 U.S. priests as members, focused its letter to the pope on comments made by the congregation's prefect, German Cardinal Gerhard Müller, in an April 30 welcoming address to LCWR leadership. LCWR is a Maryland-based umbrella group that claims about 1,500 leaders of U.S. women's communities as members, representing about 80 percent of the country's 57,000 women religious. The group is currently undergoing a major reform ordered by the Vatican in 2012. Müller's remarks were "self-confessedly blunt," said the letter, signed by Fr. David Cooper of the Milwaukee archdiocese, the association's president, and members of the group's board.............The prelate's comments included, among other things, the view that an LCWR award to one sister whose book was subject to doctrinal scrutiny "will be seen as a rather open provocation against the Holy See and the doctrinal assessment"; that LCWR is promoting futuristic ideas he described as "opposed to Christian revelation"; and there is "increasing concern" over the "directional statements" of some LCWR member congregations (more). The Pope: "Even some prelates are corrupt" The day after stating that “the corruption of the powerful is paid by the poor”, Pope Francis again, "thundered" – what’s more, like other times over the last year - against this "scourge", involving “several prelates” as well. When a person "enters" the "road of corruption", "take his own lives, usurps and sells himself", he takes advantage of the innocent “with white gloves, without dirtying his hands” he said in the homily at Casa Santa Marta, as Vatican Radio reported. "A corrupt person irritates God and makes people sin”. Not only that: a corrupt person “is one who kills, who steals”, if they do not ask for forgiveness, they are condemned with “the curse of God”, because “they exploit the innocent”. Pope Francis relaunches his complaint against corruption reflecting on today's First Reading, the martyrdom of Naboth - narrated in the first Book of Kings - killed at the behest of the corrupt King Ahab who has taken possession of his vineyard. The prophet Elijah, noted the Pope, says that the corrupt Ahab “sold” himself. It’s as though "he is no longer person but a commodity", "buy and sell": "This is the definition: it is a commodity! Then what will the Lord do with the corrupt, whatever the type of corruption ... Yesterday we said that there were three types, three groups: the corrupt politician, corrupt businessman and the corrupt clergy. All three hurt the innocent, the poor, because it is the poor who pay for the festivities of the corrupt! The bill goes to them. The Lord clearly says what must be done.....(more). Extracts from Tom Roberts, National Catholic Reporter, 16 June 2014 A group of 10 priests in the diocese of Venice, Fla., describing what they said had become an "intolerable" situation, took the highly unusual step earlier this year of composing a letter severely critical of their bishop, Frank Dewane, and sending it to the pope's representative in the United States.The letter, addressed to Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganò, the papal nuncio, accuses Dewane of ignoring or violating canon law, abandoning consultative processes and ruling by "intimidation, the use of fear, shaming, bullying and other non-Christian behaviors." (more) Bishop Frank Dewane (CNS/Catholic Press Photo/Alessia Giuliani) Professor highlights a third way for remarried divorcees, citing Ratzinger and Eastern tradition Extract from Sarah Mac Donald in Dublin, The Tablet, Monday 16 June 2014 The distinguished theologian Professor Ladislas Orsy has recommended the Church adopt a proposal once put forward by Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI to allow divorced and remarried Catholics to receive communion. The Jesuit theologian referred to an argument mooted by then Professor Joseph Ratzinger in 1972 which references oikonomia – described as “good spiritual housekeeping” and part of the Eastern Church tradition. The 1972 proposal – which, later, as Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger he stepped back from – argued that communion could be given to those in second marriages provided the first had broken down irrevocably, penance had been performed and the second union was filled with a spirit of faith (more). We stand together as disciples sent to heal a wounded world, Pope tells Welby Extract from Christopher Lamb in Rome, The tablet,16 June 2014 Pope Francis has said he and the Archbishop of Canterbury must focus their joint witness on “prayer, peace and poverty”. In an audience with Archbishop Justin Welby this morning, the Pope departed from his official text and spoke in English. “Don’t forget the ‘three Ps’,” he said. “Prayer, peace and poverty. We must walk together.” Earlier in his address Francis had said he and the archbishop must “stand together” in combating human trafficking – while divisions between Christians remained a scandal. The Pope praised the leader of the Anglican Communion for his leadership on seeking to overcome trafficking and slavery. “I thank God that, as disciples sent to heal a wounded world, we stand together, with perseverance and determination, in opposing this grave evil,” the Pope said. The Pope cited the Second Vatican Council’s Decree on Ecumenism that said no obstacle should be placed to the “future promptings of the Holy Spirit” in the progress towards full Communion (more). Welby in Rome: Churches must cast off 'institutional prestige' Extract from Christopher Lamb in Rome, The Tablet, 15 June 2014 The Archbishop of Canterbury today called on Christian Churches to reject institutional self-preservation and instead become inspired by the Holy Spirit to reach out to the world, particularly the poor. Archbishop Justin Welby, who is in Rome for a two-day visit during which he will meet Pope Francis, said “we are constantly reminded of the beauty and the history of the Church and the challenges of the history of the Church.” In a sermon at a celebration of the Eucharist this morning at the Anglican church of All Saints, he said that historically, churches had opted for “power and structural integrity.” The archbishop pointed to the Church of England’s failure to respond to the preaching of John Wesley, founder of the Methodist movement in the eighteenth century, and instead opt for a “static, unchanging Church.” (more) Address by chair of the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse Saturday 14 June 2014 Justice McClellan has delivered an important paper on the policy implications of its work at an international men's health symposium. The paper is an excellent summary of the scope and complexity of the Royal Commission's work (here). Commission requests Vatican documents Extracts from CathNews (*source The Echo), Friday 13 June 2014 The Royal Commission asks for Vatican documents, reports The Echo; while a new book by former Bishop of Toowoomba, Bill Morris, discusses Vatican responses to child abuse in Australia. In a new book, former Toowoomba Bishop Bill Morris writes that the Vatican failed to understand the fallout from clerical sex abuse in Australia, The Brisbane Times reports. There was no depth of understanding of the devastating effects that clerical sexual abuse was having on the lives of families and communities throughout Australia,' Bishop Morris says. He says he tried to 'explain how abuse damages the psyche of a community, having a debilitating effect on some individuals to the degree that they mistrust the Church and its ministers' but senior Vatican chiefs 'would have nothing of this.' 'They had no idea how it would be almost impossible for a person who had been sexually abused in the confessional or any other place to go back into a room, no matter how large, to have a one-to-one confession again,' he said. The response, from one senior Cardinal, was that 'all priests are not like that' and victims 'should get on with their lives.' ..................Commission chair, Justice Peter McClellan, has written to the Holy See's Secretary of State, Cardinal Parolin, asking for a copy of all documents held in Rome relating to complaints of sexual abuse by priests and religious leaders in Australia. Justice McClellan said he hopes the documents will shed light on how complaints were handled by the Church. 'We have asked for copies of documents which reveal the nature and extent of communications between Catholic congregations in Australia and the Holy See,' said Justice McClellan in Brisbane. 'From these documents we should be able to determine how Church authorities in Australia, under the guidance or direction of the Vatican, have responded to individual allegations of abuse.' The Royal Commission has received some documents from the Vatican relating to its upcoming public inquiry of the Wollongong diocese. But Justice McClellan says the Vatican has yet to respond to his request for documents relating to other sexual abuse complaints (more). *Source: Abuse royal commission probes the Vatican (The Echo) Photo: Royal Commission US Bishops talk sex abuse complacency, not accountability at annual meeting Extract from Brian Rowe, Joshua J. McElwee, National Catholic Reporter. Thursday 12 June 2014 Urged not to get complacent on clergy sexual abuse of minors, the nation's Catholic bishops spoke little of holding one another accountable for failures in protecting children at their annual spring meeting. The chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' National Review Board, which advises the bishops on child protection policies, told those gathered Wednesday in New Orleans that the church "continues to slowly make progress" on the abuse issue and asked bishops present to "resist complacency" and "remain committed" to the work still ahead of them. "Every time we learn about a situation that results from a decision not in conformity with the Charter [for the Protection of Children and Young People], the commendable efforts of the bishops to address the issue of sexual abuse are compromised," Francesco Cesareo said. "These instances further erode the credibility of the bishops." Toward the end of his 20-minute address, Cesareo said Catholics must "hold each other accountable for any actions or decisions that run contrary" to the prelates' charter, which the bishops' conference adopted in 2002. However, Cesareo did not specify who needs to be held accountable and to whom (more). US Church divided on how to 'read' Pope Francis as bishops gather for spring meeting The Italian Job - Can Pope Francis Manage His Local Opposition? Extracts from Massimo Faggioli,Commonweal, 5 June 2014 .........Francis’s first year has been characterized by a carefully coded fight for the ground between the old guard and the new. An abstract debate about the “continuity or discontinuity” of Vatican II has been replaced by a conversation about concrete issues such as poverty and inequality. Francis has shown a willingness to discontinue old practices—for example, the Vatican officially prohibits priests from washing women’s feet on Holy Thursday, but that’s exactly what he did just weeks after his election. Francis’s new language and style have not been universally welcomed by the bishops, especially those in his backyard. Some of them silently resist these changes..........But for all the differences between the church of the late 1950s and that of 2013, the “institutional loneliness” of John XXIII is similar to the loneliness of Pope Francis today. Francis’s promises do not depend on Francis alone, but largely on the rest of the church—and in particular bishops and cardinals. Like John XXIII, he is not young enough to carry out his own reforms. It will be up to the bishops and the faithful to reconstruct Catholicism’s credibility. Of course, the paradox is that a pope constantly in the media spotlight is trying to save the church from a “papolatry” partly created by that spotlight.(more) Photo: Commonweal.org Commission hearing into relationship between Vatican and Bishop Extract from CathNews, 5 June 2014 The Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse will investigate the relationship between the Vatican and the Archbishop of Adelaide, Philip Wilson, in his former role as Bishop of Wollongong, reports The Australian. In a statement released yesterday, the Royal Commission said it would 'inquire into ... the response of the Catholic Diocese of Wollongong to allegations of child sexual abuse, and related criminal proceedings, against John Gerard Nestor. 'The hearing (in Sydney on June 24) will look at the relationship between the Diocesan Bishop (and, in his absence, the Diocesan Administrator) and the Holy See (Vatican) in matters concerning preventative and disciplinary action,' the statement said. Shortly after his appointment to the Diocese, in 1997, local priest John Gerard Nestor was convicted of having indecently assaulted a 15-year-old boy several years earlier. Mr Nestor denied the charge and subsequently won an appeal to have the court’s decision overturned later the same year. But the Church ultimately declined to allow him to return to his work as a priest in the Wollongong diocese (more). Photo: CathNews Pope's' words on sex abuse point to strong action Extract from CathNews, 5 June 2014 The urgency with which Francis recently addressed the issue of sexual abuse of minors by clergy is encouraging. His decision to meet with victims is also a signal that he understands the gravity of this issue in a way that was not clear earlier, writes NCR. While we understand, and to some extent share, the concerns of victims' groups that the meeting and Mass with victims could be little more than media theatre, we have more hope for the gathering. Francis has given us reason to believe that his pastoral instincts will guide him and that the outcome of this encounter will bring the Church to a new place in this decades-long tragedy. Bolstering our hopefulness is Francis' acknowledgement that he must act against bishops who are complicit in failing to protect children. From his own mouth, we know that three bishops are under investigation. While he did not say whether those bishops are abusers themselves or negligent supervisors, we have the words of the Vatican's lead prosecutor of sex abuse, Fr Robert Oliver, that the Vatican is working on a process for punishing bishops who fail to protect children. Furthermore, Fr Oliver said, 'Pope Francis is the kind of leader who makes it possible for those who assist him to bring forward ideas. Then he takes hold of these ideas ... [then] the Catholic faithful, and indeed all people, will see that he will act quickly.' (more). Photo:Cathnews Pope Francis has removed the entire board of the Vatican's financial watchdog in his latest attempt to rehabilitate the troubled Vatican bank. Two years before they were due to step down, the five Italians heading the Financial Information Authority (AIF) have been replaced with a more international group of experts, including one woman (Ed: from Italy, Switzerland, Singapore and the United States). read full report here. Nuncio sees Irish renewal – but Dublin has two priests under 40 Extract from Liz Dodd, The Tablet, 4 June 2014 The papal nuncio to Ireland has spoken of a new beginning in the Church in the country and a renewed enthusiasm among young Catholics for their faith. Archbishop Charles J. Brown, who was appointed nuncio to Ireland at the peak of the clerical abuse scandal in 2011, said that Irish Catholicism had entered a new “springtime”. He told the US-based Catholic News Service: “The Church in Ireland has been through a good 20 years of real suffering, of a winter. I think that after this period of difficulty something new is beginning. We are beginning to see green shoots of renewal.” (more) Archbishop warns of 'balkanization' in US church Extracts from Joshua J, McElwee, National Catholic Reporter, 2 June 2014 A prominent U.S. archbishop has warned that the divisive nature of the nation's politics — particularly the separation of people into disparate ideological camps — may be seeping into the American Catholic church, leading to a "balkanization" of the faithful..........."What I've seen is how disruptive Pope Francis has been within the hierarchy of the United States," said Tobin. "I was talking to a couple of brother bishops a while back and they were saying that bishops and priests were very discouraged by Pope Francis because he was challenging them."............Tying the story to the U.S. church, the archbishop continued: "I wonder whether some of the echo of name-calling, labeling, and intolerance that appears to increasingly characterize the American political discourse — I wonder whether this intolerance passes unchallenged in the heart of the American Catholic church."......(more) Will the Vatican step up and hold bishops accountable? Extracts from Jason Berry, National Catholic Reporter, 2 June 2014 On the flight back to Rome May 26 after his visit to Israel, Pope Francis gave another impromptu press conference. Responding to a question on the clergy abuse crisis, he said, "At the moment there are three bishops under investigation: one has already been found guilty and we are now considering the penalty to be imposed. There are no privileges.” The pope offered no names, but according to the transcript, added a sonic boom analogy: “A priest who does this betrays the body of the Lord. This is very serious. It is like a satanic Mass.” Francis’s escalating rhetoric came three weeks after a United Nations Committee on Torture report, citing extensive international legal findings, was critical of the Holy See for bishops’ negligence in sheltering sexual predators. “States bear international responsibility for the acts and omissions of their officials and others acting in an official capacity or acting on behalf of the state," said the U.N. report issued May 23. “A zero tolerance approach must be adopted,” Francis said on the airplane. He announced he would meet with a group of abuse victims...........The root problem is the power structure, a hierarchy long accustomed to immunity from punishment. Popes, in turn, assume lockstep loyalty from bishops and cardinals. Francis’s move toward a penal policy for hierarchs has cut distance from the passivity of John Paul and the halting approach by Benedict, who refused to accept the resignation letters of two Irish auxiliary bishops criticized for negligence in the government investigation of the church in Dublin. What Francis decides about the three bishops under investigation, as yet unnamed, will be another signal on the depth, or not, of a criminal justice system so desperately needed by the Roman Catholic church (more). photo: Pope Francis greets journalists aboard the flight from Tel Aviv to Rome May 26. At right is Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi, Vatican press spokesman. (CNS/Paul Haring) The Submission also expresses a view that with establishment of the Commission for the Protection of Minors the Church may now be more likely to receive and accept advice regarding the role of institutional abuse from an expert body such as the Australian Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse. Download submission here Link to ABC Local Radio Interview by John Cleary, Sunday 1 June 2014 Kieren Tapsell' new book, Potiphar's Wife, is about the 'Secret of the Holy office' or the 'The Pontifical Secret', and how it protects clergy from criminal prosecution. It details the Vatican protocols in place since 1922 that have forbidden clergy to report sex abuse cases to the civil authorities. Tapsell also looks carefully at Canon Law (international Catholic law) and how it has come into conflict with civil law. His book forensically examines this official policy of secrecy in the Catholic church; secrecy in regard to sexual abuse of minors. And the policy is still in force at the very highest level. Listen Pope Francis says 'door open' on priestly celibacy Extract from CathNews, Friday 30 May 2014 Pope Francis has directly addressed the issue of priest celibacy for the first time since his election as Pope while on his way back from a historic trip to the Middle East, reports The Huffington Post on Ucanews. He told reporters on Monday: 'It is a rule of life that I appreciate very much, and I think it is a gift for the church, but since it is not a dogma, the door is always open.' The Pope has hinted that the practice of priestly celibacy is open to change before, but this was his most explicit public statement on the subject since becoming Pope. Last autumn, Francis' Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, also seemed open to the idea of discussing a change in the policy towards married priests when he explained that celibacy 'is not a church dogma and it can be discussed because it is a church tradition.' During his chat with reporters, Pope Francis took the opportunity to condemn sexual abuse by priests. He has created a commission to investigate abuse by clerics and institute reforms, though the UN has harshly criticised the Vatican for its current set of policies. Some proponents of optional celibacy link priest abuse to sexual frustration, arguing that less abuse would occur if celibacy was not mandatory. However, the Church rejects this argument, claiming that abuse happens due to psychological problems, reports The Times of Malta (more). Potiphar's Wife: The Vatican's Secret and Child Sex Abuse by Kieran Tapsell Extract of Book Review by Dr Christopher Geraghty, Catholica, Thursday 29 May 2014 .........In this book, the author unravels the story of Vatican policy of secrecy from 1922 — a story which some might say amounted to national disloyalty, to criminal omission and conspiracy, a story of official double-speak, of blame-shifting, power-plays and petty jealousies. The Vatican promulgated and continued to enforce laws which would undermine the fabric of the communities and the State, and while protecting its own reputation and its priests, which would inevitably cause maximum heartache within families. Explosive devices encased in canonical terminology and manufactured in Rome, to be detonated in homes and in local communities throughout the world. Potiphar's Wife is a good read, but disturbing. The author goes a long way to explaining why the Catholic Church has dealt so badly with the scandal of paedophile priests in its ranks and why the Royal Commission, in responding to its terms of reference, can't avoid making a series of trenchant findings involving the Vatican, and perhaps some recommendations to assist her in the process of putting its haunted house in order. (read full Review here). Watch video segments of Launch of Potiphars Wife, Catholica, from launch at the Catholic Institute in Strathfield NSW on 27 May 2014. Painting: Guido Reni (Italian - Joseph and Potiphar's Wife - Google Art Project.jpg) With a new Synod of Bishops comes a new chance to do things right Extracts from Joan Chittister, National Catholic Reporter, Wednesday 28 May 2014 I remembered an ancient saying not long ago that smacked far too much of the present than it did of the past. "There are only two mistakes on the way to truth," Buddha taught. "One is not going far enough and the other is not starting." I knew right away that we're either on the verge of another mistake -- or not. It all depends. Very few ever get a second chance to get the really big things of life right. Really right..........Once upon a time, churches were exempt from such problems. Not anymore. These days, churches are little better off than the average organization when it comes to the wages of sin and attempts to defraud. "The faith" does not compensate in an educated public for a loss of confidence in the integrity of the church itself. Which is where we are right now, whether anyone wants to consider that possibility or not. All of our major institutions are being viewed with wary eyes -- the government and its outrageous dysfunction, the global financial structures and their pecuniary sleight of hand, and even the church and its insistence on rules for everyone else while it seems to have skirted the important ones. And into the middle of a church clouded by scandal as well as by rigidity comes a pope with a call for reform and for understanding. What's not to love? (more) *Sr. Joan Chittister, Benedictine . Second UN panel criticizes Vatican on sex abuse For the second time, a United Nations panel has criticized the Vatican for its response to the child sexual abuse scandals in the Catholic Church, charging it with failing to mandate that abuse charges be reported to police, moving clergy to evade discipline, and failing to see that victims obtain adequate compensation. “Clergy . . . were transferred to other dioceses and institutions where they remained in contact with minors and others who are vulnerable,” the United Nations Committee against Torture charged in a new report, “and in some cases committed abuse in their subsequent placements.” The report follows a similar indictment from the Committee on the Rights of the Child that appeared in February, which asserted that the Vatican had fostered “impunity” for abusers. The document from the Committee against Torture was to be released in a press conference in Geneva Friday. The Boston Globe obtained an advance copy Thursday. Read full report here. Julian McDonald*: We will right this terrible wrong. Extracts from Pearls and Irritations, John Menadue website, 20 May 2014, republished here 23 May 2014 With searing eloquence, 11 men bravely told the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse in Perth of the devastating impact of physical and sexual abuse at the hands of Christian Brothers in residences at Castledare, Clontarf, Bindoon and Tardun in Western Australia more than 50 years ago. No one could be but moved by these men, who told of their painful experiences of stolen innocence, of being subjected to physical brutality and the depths of sexual depravity by supposedly religious men from whom they had every right to expect care, nurture and respect. Instead they were betrayed and treated as objects for sexual gratification. A regret I have is that every Christian Brother in Oceania was not present to hear the testimony of the men, victims of an earlier generation of Christian Brothers........I also urge the Catholic Church, of which the Christian Brothers are but part, to open itself to examining the causes and embracing the learnings from what has been a shameful episode in our history.We cannot delegate our response to others to formulate but rather must look inside ourselves for the way forward, listening to views from within, however confronting we might find them.Read full paper here. *Brother Julian McDonald is deputy province leader, Christian Brothers Oceania Province. This piece was run in The Australian 12 May 2014. Beyond the 'Francis factor,' what signs of hope in the Church? Extract from CathNews, Thursday 22 May 2014 ....When asked to name signs of hope in our Church and world, Good Samaritan Sister, Mary McDonald, saw very few in the Church, besides the 'Francis factor'. So she began anew to seek them out. My initial reaction to that question was somewhat confronting. Besides the 'Francis factor,' I saw very few signs of hope in the Church. This response was probably strongly influenced by the heart-rending stories of pain, suffering and broken trust that have been told by survivors at the hearings of the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse. So I began anew to seek out the signs of hope. Two areas that both the Church and the world are willing to name and address, are the evil of human trafficking and the ecological crisis. The Good Samaritan Sisters share concerns and hope for both areas (more). We must make room for all the lenses in our church Extract from Opinion, Christine Schenk CSJ*, National Catholic Reporter, 22 May 2014 Looking over Catholic news lately, I find much that is confusing and, alas, much cause for lament. First, there is the reality of Catholic teachers being required to sign expanded six-page contracts that are essentially loyalty oaths as conditions for employment. Then there is the threatened censure of the respected Asian theologian Jesuit Fr. Michael Amaladoss by the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. Amaladoss is an expert in interreligious dialogue and Christology who, according to colleague Peter Phan, "has made an enormous and lasting contribution to the elaboration of a genuinely Asian theology." Close to my own heart is the doctrinal congregation's recent harsh criticism of the Leadership Conference of Women Religious for, among other things, having the audacity to decide on its own to honor a deeply loved and internationally respected theologian, St. Joseph Sr. Elizabeth Johnson, with its Outstanding Leadership Award. Come on, guys. Do you really need to tell the sisters to whom they can and cannot give awards? It's not like the women aren't competent. I haven't counted, but I'm guessing there is a higher percentage of master's degrees and doctorates among LCWR members than among most other groups. Their main problem seems to be that they are, um, women, and even worse, women with minds of their own (more). A senior Vatican official has tried to defuse the damaging rift between the Vatican and US religious women, after a recent rebuke over obedience and doctrinal differences, reports the Religion News Service in NCR Online. Cardinal João Bráz de Aviz, who heads the Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life that oversees men’s and women’s religious orders, said there had been 'sensitive times,' but relations between religious orders and the Holy See remained 'very close.' 'There are positive aspects and less positive aspects,' the Brazilian Cardinal said during a press conference on human trafficking ahead of the World Cup. 'We have chosen the path of dialogue. We have to speak positively.' Bráz de Aviz was speaking at the launch of a campaign by Catholic nuns, backed by the US Embassy to the Vatican, to fight human trafficking at the soccer World Cup in Brazil next month (more). Photo: CathNews. Photo. CathNews Head of We Are Church in Austria excommunicated by Pope Francis Extract from Abigail Frymann, Christa Pongratz-Lippitt, The Tablet, 22 May 2014 The head of pro-reform movement We Are Church in Austria has been excommunicated by Pope Francis for "celebrating" Mass, the Austrian press has reported. According to the Austrian daily Tiroler Tageszeitung Martha Heizer and her husband Gert were excommunicated for regularly “simulating the Mass”, which the Church considers a delictum gravius, or “grave delict”. The couple are now barred from the sacraments. The couple has reportedly been celebrating Mass privately at their house together with a small group of friends for several years in what they term “celebrations of the Eucharist without a priest”. Bishop Manfred Scheuer of Innsbruck received the decree of excommunication last night. He took the excommunication decree to their house last night and read it out to them but they refused to accept it. He described the move as a “self-excommunication”, which he said was “not a victory, but always a defeat for the Church” (more). Cardinal praises transvestite Conchita Wurst: ‘there is multicoloured variety in God’s garden’ Extract from Christa Pongratz-Lippitt, The Tablet, 22 May 2014 Cardinal Christoph Schönborn, the Archbishop of Vienna, has congratulated the cross-dressing Austrian winner of the Eurovision Song Contest. The singer, who won this year’s contest for Austria with the song Rise Like a Phoenix, is a gay man who performs as the drag persona Conchita Wurst. “I am glad that Tom Neuwirth had such success with his artistic creation Conchita Wurst and I will pray for him,” Cardinal Schönborn said. “As we all know, there is multicoloured variety in God’s garden. Not everyone who is born male feels he is a man and the same applies to women. Such people deserve the same respect that we all have a right to as human beings”, Schönborn told Kathpress. The issue of tolerance, to which the singer said her performance was dedicated, was a “very real and major issue”, the cardinal said, adding that people like Tom Neuwirth had been exposed to ridicule, nastiness and intolerance. Tolerance meant “respecting someone even if one does not share his or her views,” Schönborn emphasised (more). Pope Francis setting up panel to hear accused priests' appeals Extract from Abigail Frymann, The Tablet, 19 May 2014 Pope Francis is establishing a commission under the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith to examine the appeals of priests punished for sexual abuse of minors and other serious crimes. The Vatican press office issued a brief note today stating that the Pope had named Argentine Archbishop Jose Luis Mollaghan of Rosario to be a member of the CDF "in the commission being established to examine the appeals of clergy for delicta graviora," the Vatican term for sexual abuse of minors and serious sins against the sacraments. Archbishop Jose Luis Mollaghan worked with Pope Francis between 1993 and 2000 when both prelates served as bishops in the diocese of Buenos Aires. The note described Mollaghan as having led the Archdiocese of Rosario "until now," suggesting that his new role on the commission would be a full-time job in Rome, the US-based Catholic News Service reported. The Vatican did not provide further details about the commission, when it would be established or what the extent of its mandate would be. It did not mention what Archbishop Mollaghan's position on the commission would be (more). Kieran Tapsell. The Vatican at the UN: Who is fossilised in the Past? Extract from Kieran Tapsel, Pearls and Irritations, John Menadue Website . Friday 16 May 2014 Kieran Tapsell reports that the Holy See has found itself before the United Nations once again, this time in relation to the Treaty on Torture. ‘According to Reuters, Archbishop Tomasi told critics of its sexual abuse record that it had developed model child protection policies over the last decade and that its accusers should not stay “fossilised in the past” when attitudes were different. He said that the “culture of the time” in the 1960s and 1970s viewed such offenders as people who could be treated psychologically rather than as criminals, but this was a mistake, and it is all in the past.’ (more) The Fisherman Reinvented (The rise of the monarchical papacy) ........it is worthwhile noting some perceptions about the Catholic Church especially from active members. Perceptions are important because whether they are founded or not, they have the potential to make or break individuals or organisations. In the Westminster system of government for example, leaders and governing parties can sometime fall on perceptions. Some of these more dangerous perceptions are: that the Fisherman has usurped the role of the Master who originally called him; that Peter has now become the Christ figure, that he calls and names other apostles, not Christ; that the papacy and the institutional Church has been so confected that it is promoted as coextensive with the Kingdom of God; that a toll of instruction, the Catechism of the Catholic Church, has been elevated to a doctrinal rank higher than the Second Vatican Ecumenical Council; that the Holy Spirit has been domesticated and reduced to the slave of ideology and indoctrination; that the Code of Canon Law has been promoted to a principal guide book for those called to lead as priest, prophet and sanctifier and that, finally, the Gospel itself is now become stripped of its power to confront, challenge, subvert and transform its own servant, the Church itself (more). Extract from Jamie L. Manson first published 7 March 2014 in BuzzFeed, Friday 16 May 2015 Widely considered one of the architects of Catholic feminist theology, the 72-year-old nun and professor has often clashed with institutional leaders — including the future pope — in her fight for equality in the clergy. “You say Mary is too passive, Isn’t obedience the greatest virtue?” This was one of 40 questions sent to Elizabeth Johnson by a cardinal when she was up for a tenure-track position at the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., in September 1987. A respected scholar for decades, Johnson found her application rubber-stamped by every committee within the school, yet still needed approval from the Vatican’s powerful Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. Given that she had written an article questioning the traditional view of Mary as humble and obedient, further rubber-stamping was not guaranteed. The cardinal interrogating her was Joseph Ratzinger, the future Pope Benedict XVI (more). Photo: BuzzFeed Despite ban, US abuser priest remained in ministry for 10 years Edited extract from Dan Morris-Young, National Catholic Reporter, Thursday 15 May 2014 The Seattle archdiocese has been harshly criticized for not publicly releasing the name of a priest removed from ministry a decade ago for the sexual exploitation of a teen. The priest then socialized with parishioners and performed occasional baptisms, weddings and funerals despite his removal until his past recently came to the attention of some parishioners. The former chair and vice chair of the board that reviewed sexual abuse allegations in 2004 has leveled unvarnished reproof. That case review board urged the archdiocese to make public (the priest's) identity and offenses. "The investigation's documents, dating to 2004 and which the archdiocese has refused to make public, would reveal that a 17-year-old boy involved with ... (The Priest) was passed among the priest and friends, according to multiple sources," wrote Joel Connelly in a blog post Monday for the Seattle Post-Intelligencer, an online newspaper. A May statement from the archdiocese said that now-retired Archbishop Alexander Brunett had gone against the review board's recommendation to release Quigg's name "because of the determination that the sexual contact did not involve a minor" and "(the priest's) request to respect his privacy." (more) Church is behind the times and needs to support failed marriages, UK laity tell bishops Extract fromn Liz Dodd, The Tablet, 15 May 2014 Catholics in England and Wales have called on the bishops of England and Wales to find ways to support marriages that have broken down and to stop being “behind the times.” They have done so in responses to a questionnaire issued in the lead up to this year’s family synod in Rome, according to Cardinal Vincent Nichols. The cardinal told a press conference on 9 May that during last week’s bishops’ conference meeting in Leeds members had discussed Catholics’ responses to the questionnaire. He said that he had been struck by one response that stated: “The Church needs to uphold marriage but create space for where it fails.” He said this “captures the heart” of how the Church must respond during the synod process. Cardinal Nichols revealed that one respondent had said the Church is “behind the times” in its teaching while another advised the hierarchy: “Don’t judge, teach”. He added: “This is an appeal to us to accompany people very sensitively. That spells out very clearly that we are all on a continuing journey and we need teachers.” Catholics in England and Wales were asked for their thoughts in a survey which included questions on communion for divorced and remarried persons, same-sex couples and teaching on contraception, although the findings remain unpublished. The first of the two synods will take place in Rome in October and bishops will analyse the responses to the survey. The second, due to take place in October 2015, will seek to establish guidelines in the pastoral care of the person and the family. The cardinal warned that it would not be “a speedy process about one or two key issues” (more). Information on Petition concerning Fr Patrick Lawson in Scotland Wednesday 14 May 2014 Cath FR has been invited by to make website visitors aware of a Petition prepared in support of Fr Patrick Lawson who was reportedly removed from his office for his public allegations concerning his own sexual abuse within the Church in Scotland. Based on details provided a link to this information is provided on the Petitions page for consideration. Whilst not having firsthand knowledge of the facts the issue as reported appears to relate to our work on dysfunctional Church governance and lack of accountability. Extracts from Catholic News, Friday 9 May 2014 The Catholic Archbishop of Melbourne, Denis Hart, has welcomed the release of the Victorian Government’s Response to the Parliamentary report into the Handling of Child Sexual Abuse. But victims groups have demanded the government do more, reports AAP in The Australian. Archbishop Hart said in a statement yesterday: 'We welcome the Government’s Response, and believe that the three themes of prevention, response and access to justice are important priorities in preventing further abuse and supporting victims. We are pleased that the Government has supported the recommendations made by the Inquiry, which we supported when its Report was issued last November. 'The minimum child safe standards, the reportable conduct scheme and the expansion of the Working with Children Check requirements are valuable reforms and we look forward to their implementation.'We also support the legislative amendments that have created a new offence of grooming and those that are underway to require that allegations of child abuse be reported and to create a new offence of child endangerment.' (more) Photo:Cathnews No limits for sex abuse claims in Victoria Extract from John Ferguson, The Australian, Friday 9 May 2014 THE statute of limitations on civil child sex abuse claims will be overhauled in Victoria, opening the floodgates for claims against institutions and perpetrators. The Napthine government yesterday announced it would rewrite the archaic and restrictive civil law provisions that have enabled lawyers to limit or even block compensation claims. Kieran Tapsell’s “Potiphar’s Wife” Extract from John Mendaue Pearls & Irritations,Thursday 8 May 2014 (read full article here) In this book by Kieran Tapsell which is to be launched on May 27 we can learn about canon law and secrecy in the Vatican, particularly in relation to sexual abuse. Kieran Tapsell has been a guest blogger on these issues on this site. John Menadue. For 1500 years, the Catholic Church accepted that clergy who sexually abused children deserved to be stripped of their status as priests and then imprisoned. A series of papal and Council decrees from the twelfth century required such priests to be dismissed from the priesthood, and then handed over to the civil authorities for further punishment. That all changed in 1922 when Pope Pius XI issued his decree Crimen Sollicitationis that created a de facto ‘privilege of clergy’ by imposing the ‘secret of the Holy Office’ on all information obtained through the Church’s canonical investigations. If the State did not know about these crimes, then there would be no State trials, and the matter could be treated as a purely canonical crime to be dealt with in secret in the Church courts (More). Next item on the Catholic reform agenda Extract from Michael Kelly SJ. Pearls & Irritations, John Menadue Website 2 May 2014 (read full article here) This is a time of reform in the Church. Everyone who bothers to look, from average Catholics around the world to the cardinals who elected Jorge Mario Bergoglio to become Pope Francis, knows the Church is in strife and in need of a lot of work to render it an effective means to the end it serves: to proclaim the Gospel and serve God’s people. First steps are being taken to fix a dysfunctional Vatican. But some of the big-ticket items for the wider Church won’t be fixed as quickly. Many of them are pastoral and require cultural change as much as administrative amendments. And as anyone with experience in changing the culture of an organization will attest, that type of change is the slowest in coming. It will start in October with an issue that is perhaps the single most undeclared but neuralgic item in the Church’s life; also the one that frequently triggers the departure of otherwise observant Catholics from the Church: divorce and remarriage (more). A step forward for married men is a giant step backward for women Extract from Janie Mason, National Catholic Reporter, Wednesday 30 April 2014 Earlier this month, yet another stunning headline came out of the Vatican. "Pope says married men could be ordained -- if world's bishops agree," read The Tablet of London. But this latest news did not come directly from the mouth of Pope Francis. The message was relayed by Bishop Erwin Kräutler of the Xingu diocese in the Brazilian rainforest. In an interview with the Salzburger Nachrichten, Kräutler, an Austrian-born priest who has served as bishop of Xingu since 1981, said Francis showed openness to ordaining married men, or viri probati. Kräutler claimed that during a private audience with Francis, "the Pope explained that he could not take everything in hand personally from Rome. We local bishops, who are best acquainted with the needs of our faithful, should be corajudos, that is 'courageous' in Spanish, and make concrete suggestions." (more) The Francis Effect: Joy and Fresh Hope? This paper may be downloaded from the Documents page (document 20) Vatican says reform process will take longer than expected Extract from CathNews, Wednesday 30 April 2014 The peacemaker pope Extracts from Bruce Duncan, Eureka Street, 23 April 2014 (read full article here) Quite striking is the similarity between the warm response to Pope John XXIII half a century ago and to Pope Francis today. Both aroused enormous interest and broke through the gilded cage of outdated conventions and stereotyped expectations. Both stepped over barriers of ideology or religion to evoke bonds of a common humanity committed to promoting the wellbeing of all people, especially the poor and marginalised. The contexts were of course quite different.....Like Francis, John XXIII faced opposition by more conservative people in the Vatican Curia and beyond. But he was determined to lead the Church forward, gently but firmly, opening Catholics to fresh ways of recognising the good in every person, in cultures and other religious traditions. Francis is endeavouring to follow a like path, though this time in the context of competing forms of capitalism struggling to manage gross inequalities in living standards and life opportunities, at the same time as global warming dangerously threatens a sustainable future for the human race. Image: Eureka Street. in defence of Cardinal Pell Extract from Frank Brennan, Eureka Street, 21 April 2014 I write to defend Cardinal Pell in the wake of Elizabeth Farrelly's claim in the Fairfax press that Pell, when appearing before Justice McClellan at the Royal Commission, proposed a 'priestly child abuse insurance scheme' and that 'if you wanted to maximize the damage already done to countless children, you'd be hard put to find a surer way or crueler'. I am a Catholic priest, a Jesuit, but I have never been on Cardinal Pell's Christmas Card list. It got to the stage a couple of years ago that he gratuitously published the observations that 'part of the key to understanding Brennan is that he's really not well educated in the Catholic tradition — in Catholic theology' and that for the Jesuits, Jesus 'has been almost displaced by (their) enthusiasm for social justice'. He is not one of my fans, and neither am I one of his. But I think Farrelly has unfairly kicked him when he is down. More importantly she has muddied the waters about what is a critical issue for the victims of child sexual abuse suffered within institutions, including the Catholic Church....(more). . Eureka Street. Family life survey findings must be kept under wraps, Vatican cardinal told England and Wales bishops Extract from Christopher Lamb, The Tablet, Thursday 16 April 2014 The Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales has faced down criticism of its refusal to release the findings of a marriage and family survey by revealing it had been requested to keep the results secret by a Vatican cardinal. Mgr Marcus Stock, the General Secretary of the bishops’ conference, has explained that Cardinal Lorenzo Baldisseri wrote to Cardinal Vincent Nichols asking that the summary not be made public. The Church in England and Wales led the way when it decided to put online a questionnaire ahead of a synod on marriage and family life; 16,500 filled out the survey which included questions on communion for divorced and remarried, church teaching on artificial contraception and same-sex marriage. But the bishops’ conference has refused to release the findings despite the fact that other episcopal conferences – such as the Germans and Swiss – have done so. This month, A Call to Action (Acta), wrote to the bishops urging them to publish the findings of the survey (more). Photo:Cardinal Baldisseri, CNS/Massimiliano Migliorato Pope Asks for Forgiveness — Martin E. Marty Extract from The Martin Martin Center, Divinity School, The University of Chicago, 14 April 2014 (read full article here) Holy Week in the Western Christian calendar is a time for Christians to confess their sins, ask for forgiveness, and seek to amend their lives. A billion believers will be doing all that in the five days ahead. Some may do it in their churches, some in other places of their choosing, and more in their own heads and hearts. Leaders of many different churches are encouraging their fellow-believers to ask God and other humans for forgiveness. One of these leaders made headlines this week because of his extraordinary role, gifts, status, character, and celebrity. Thus: “Pope Takes Responsibility for Priests’ Abuse Scandal” (New York Times, April 11) and “Pope Asks Forgiveness for Priest Abuse Cases” (Reuters, April 11) (more) Pope Francis makes boldest comments yet on sex abuse crisis Extract from Belief, globalpost.com 11 April 2014 Pope Francis has taken another bold step in his rhetoric of reform, this time remarking on the clergy abuse crisis, raising the bar of expectations on just how he plans to confront a deeply systemic crisis. According to the Vatican press office, the pope in meeting with a French advocacy group International Catholic Child Bureau made his most forceful statement yet on the scandals that have jolted the church since the 1980s: “I feel called to take responsibility for all the evil some priests — large in number, but not in proportion to the total — have committed and to ask forgiveness for the damage they've done with the sexual abuse of children." Benedict and John Paul II made apologetic statements, though neither alluded to a structural response, as Francis did today: “We don’t want to take a step backward with this problem and with the sanctions that must be imposed,” he said. He continued: "On the contrary, I believe we must be very strong. You don't play with children's lives!" The precise nature of those sanctions has yet to be revealed, but the overriding problem for years has been the de facto immunity for cardinals and bishops. Under the canon law system, Vatican tribunals, many of them run by cardinals and bishops, deal with internal church affairs (more). Pope 'open minded' about ordaining married men Extract from Catholic News, Friday 11 May 2014 A bishop who met with Pope Francis in a rare private audience last week has said in an interview that the two men discussed the issue of the ordination of 'proven' married men – viri probati – in a serious and positive way, reports The Tablet. Bishop Erwin Kräutler, Bishop of Xingu in the Brazilian rainforest, spoke to the Pope about Francis’ forthcoming encyclical on the environment, and the treatment of indigenous peoples but the desperate shortage of priests in the Bishop’s huge diocese came up in the conversation. According to an interview which the Austrian-born bishop gave to the daily Salzburger Nachrichten on April 5, the Pope was open-minded about finding solutions to the problem, saying that bishops’ conferences could have a decisive role. 'The Pope explained that he could not take everything in hand personally from Rome. We local bishops, who are best acquainted with the needs of our faithful, should be corajudos, that is "courageous" in Spanish, and make concrete suggestions,' he explained (more). Photo: Cathnews An engaged laity demands answers on finances, abuse Extracts from Editorial, National Catholic Reporter, Thursday 10 April 2014 This issue brings together two strains of church life that NCR has been tracking for some 30 years: the sexual abuse of minors by clergy, and the finances of dioceses. It is in these two areas that church leaders are at their most vulnerable. The sexual abuse of minors by clergy and the subsequent cover-up by those in the church leadership structure have sapped the hierarchy of much of its moral authority. Many times, the church has seemed to be moving on from the immediacy of that crisis, and then something happens -- a priest in Newark, N.J., who is supposed to be on restricted ministry is found on youth retreats, or leaders in the St. Paul-Minneapolis archdiocese ignore their own guidelines and the Dallas Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People -- and we are plunged headlong back into that morass.The unprecedented appointment of the new Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors should have been greeted with jubilation -- a commission of experts with direct access to the pope is something that could not have been imagined even three years ago. Instead, the announcement comes with many unanswered questions: Who will lead the commission? Where will it fit in the Vatican bureaucracy? What is its exact mandate? Sources have been telling NCR since December that this commission would be decisive in answering concerns of victim advocates, particularly in producing procedures to censure bishops who violate church law on clergy sex abuse. What could have been a watershed moment has done little to assuage critics. It is more than an opportunity wasted. It is the surest sign yet of the tremendous resistance that Pope Francis and his Council of Cardinals are meeting inside the church bureaucracy...........The times have changed. An educated and engaged laity is demanding answers and accountability. There can be no going back (more). The canonisation of Popes John Paul II and John XXIII – an event of telling significance. Extract from Michael Kelly SJ. Pearls and Irritations, John Menadue Blog, 9 April 2014 Pope Francis may need some help from Our Lady The Untier Of Knots. On April 27, we will witness an event that will tell us more about what to make of Papa Francesco and what to expect in his papacy. He will canonize on the same day both Popes John Paul II and John XXII. Each represents contrasting styles and records as Bishops of Rome: John XIII who convoked the Vatican Council and opened up the Church; John Paul II who stiffened and straightened the Church when some thought it was out of control (more). ANALYSIS: Pope Francis’ plan for reform: Convert the church As Pope Francis approaches the one-year mark of his papacy, his global flock and a fascinated public are starting to measure the changes he is making against the sky-high hopes for transforming an institution many thought impervious to change. Every personnel move and every new proposal is being scrutinized for what it might indicate about the direction of the church, what it might augur about possible adjustments to church teaching and whether the aspirations of so many will be fulfilled — or frustrated. But as important as such structural and policy moves can be, church leaders and Vatican insiders say the 77-year-old Francis is really focused on a more ambitious (and perhaps more difficult) goal: overhauling and upending the institutional culture of Catholicism. Francis, they say, is bent on converting the church, as it were, so that the faith is positioned to flourish in the future no matter who follows him to the throne of St. Peter (more). Photo Sally Morrow Notice of an article by Elizabeth Farrelly published in the Sydney Morning Herald, Thursday 3 April 2014 The above-titled opinion piece passionately argues that Cardinal Pell's suggestion to insure priests again being sued for Child Sexual Abuse is a further denial of Christianity and a revealing confirmation of primary intent to protect a church rather than care or take responsibility for victims. Read the article here Abuse scandal cost US Church $120m last year Extract from CathNews, Wednesday 2 April 2014 The clerical abuse scandal cost American dioceses nearly $A120 million last year, according to a report released by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, reports Catholic Culture/Ucanews. Of the total of $A117,845,453, only 62% of those funds were allotted to settlements ($66 million) and therapy for abuse victims ($6.6 million). The remaining funds were spent on attorneys’ fees ($31.3 million), support for offenders ($11.3 million), and other costs ($2.6 million), according to the 2013 Report on the Implementation of the Charter for Protection of Children and Young People, released on March 28. The clerical abuse scandal cost religious institutes an additional $15,590,273 in 2013. These expenses brought the total cost of the clerical abuse scandal to American dioceses and religious institutes between 2004-12 to $2.9m: $2.5m for dioceses and eparchies, and over $400,000 for religious institutes. The report added that dioceses, eparchies, and religious orders spent $44m for child protection efforts in 2013 (more). USCCB's clergy sex abuse audit finds decline but 'major' limitations Extract from Joshua J McElwee, 1 April 2014 The yearly audit of U.S. Catholic dioceses' compliance with national measures to report and prevent clergy sexual abuse found a decline in the number of reported cases of abuse from July 2012 to June 2013 but also cited concerns about the limited scope of the auditors' abilities. Of particular concern are four dioceses that would not allow any audits to take place and the fact that "most" dioceses do not allow or conduct audits of parishes or schools, where most reporting of abuse is thought to occur, the auditors write. During the finding period -- July 1, 2012, through June 30, 2013 -- 857 survivors of clergy sexual abuse reported 936 allegations of abuse in 191 dioceses, the audit reports, a decline from the 921 survivors who reported abuse in the previous audit period (more). Pray that victims can forgive and, finally, heal Extract from Fr. Greg Baker, Opinions, The Age, Tuesday 1 April 2014 Some good may yet flow from Cardinal Pell's evidence to the royal commission (''Pell rethink on abuse claims to cost church''......(more) Saturday 29 March 2014, Pearls & Irritations, John Menadue Website 1) "Pell’s business strategy in tatters"- by Kieran Tapsell (here). 2) "Farewell to Pell" - by Chris Geraghty (here) Cardinal Pell rethink on abuse claims Extract from Aisha Dow, Catherine Armitage, The Age, Friday 28 March 2014 Cardinal George Pell has opened the door to hundred of millions of dollars in payments for victims of child sex abuse by members of the Catholic Church. Cardinal Pell has reportedly agreed that the controversial $75,000 cap on payments under the Melbourne Response should be removed and old cases reassessed in line with Australian civil claim standards. He made the comments to the parents of two abuse victims, Chrissie and Anthony Foster, in a rare meeting held after his final appearance at the child sex abuse royal commission (more). State forces Church back to its mission basics Extract from Frank Brennan, Eureka Street, Thursday 27 March 2014 Prior to Cardinal Pell's appearance before Justice McClellan at the Child Abuse Royal Commission, I wrote in the Fairfax press: ‘The spotlight on the Ellis case should lead to better church administration for the good of everyone, especially those abused or wronged by those in authority. Together, Pell and McClellan can provide us with a better-lit path through the thickets of past abuse and maladministration.’ It has been an excruciating week or two. But there can be no doubt that the Australian Catholic Church with the forced scrutinies of the State has been assisted in getting back to its mission and basic values, espousing truth, justice, compassion and transparency. As an institution, we have been dragged kicking and screaming........(more). Image: Eureka Street Cardinal George Pell issues formal apology to abuse victim John Ellis Extract from AAP, The Australian, 27 March 2014 Cardinal George Pell has ended his appearance before a royal commission into child sexual abuse with a formal apology to the victim of a paedophile priest. However Dr Pell read out the formal apology to John Ellis without once looking at the former altar boy, even though he was sitting just metres away. Dr Pell said that, speaking personally, the church had failed Mr Ellis and that as the former archbishop of Sydney he took ultimate responsibility for the suffering and the terrible impact on his life. “At the end of this gruelling appearance for both of us at this royal commission, I want to publicly say sorry to him for the hurt caused him by the mistakes made,” Dr Pell said. (full report here) Prominent cardinals oppose reform-minded Kasper on treatment of divorced and remarried Catholics Extract from Elena Curti, Christa Pongratz-Lippitt, Michael Sean Winters, The Tablet, Thursday 27 March 2014 Cardinal Walter Kasper’s proposal to allow communion for remarried divorcees was given a negative reception from most of his confreres at last month’s consistory according to an Italian journalist. In an article for the Turin daily, La Stampa, last Monday, Marco Tosatti says that Cardinal Kasper’s plan was greeted with a storm of criticism. In his address to the consistory on 22 February, the German cardinal argued that Catholic divorcees who remarry should, after a period of atonement, be allowed to seek re-admittance to the sacraments. Tosatti claims the vast majority of cardinals who spoke in the subsequent discussion criticised the proposal. (more) Photo: Cardinal Kasper in St Peter's Square, CNS Cardinal George Pell regrets legal strategy used against victim John Ellis Extract from Damien Murphy The Age, 26 March 2014 ......Cardinal Pell, as Catholic Archbishop of Sydney, had sanctioned a legal strategy that refused to recognise Mr Ellis had been abused, offered him derisory financial compensation and refused his offers of a settlement in the belief it would cause a rush of litigants demanding compensation payouts and subjected him to a long, demeaning legal case that left him bankrupt. Cardinal Pell: ''I regret that.''. Ms Furness: ''Only regret, Cardinal?''...... (full report here) See, Judge and Act: reading the signs of the times. Extract from presentations by retired Bishop Pat Power on 24 March at Cowra as part of the 125th anniversary celebrations for St Raphael’s parish and on 25 March at a SIP in Bathurst.Wednesday 26 March 2014 (Read full report here, or on Documents page)........Many Catholics believed that the Church was becoming too comfortable, too respectable yet up until the election of Pope Francis, they felt that nobody was listening to their concerns. Groups calling for reform are regularly dismissed as trouble-makers with little love for the Church when in fact their hearts are breaking for the Church which they see as drifting further away from the message of Jesus. Maybe it has taken the present crisis in the Church to bring us all to our senses. Pope Francis’ willingness to listen and his experience as a very human pastor give us all great hope, but even the Pope recognises the forces which are trying to maintain the status quo.......... Photo: ABC Cardinal Pell wants state to decide damages Edited extracts from Catherine Armitage, The Age, Tuesday 25 March 2014 During his evidence to the child Sexual abuse royal commission yesterday Cardinal George Pell called on the Federal Government to establish an independent body to recommend what damages should be paid to child abuse victims. He suggested that the Catholic Church should create a corporate legal entity that victims could sue and that abusive priests should be insured against neig sued for sexual abuse. He also said that both the Church's Towards Healing Protocol for dealing with sex abuse victims and the Melbourne Response set up in the 1990s failed to meet the church's moral responsibility towards victims. He said that the attitude of some people in the Vatican in the 1990s was that accusations against priests were ''were being made exclusively or at least predominantly by enemies of the church to make trouble". (more) Collision between church and state Church and state have been circling each other for centuries. Cardinal, George Pell, had his own difficulties separating church and state before the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse on Monday.....The cardinal turned himself from a man of God into a man of law. After 4½ hours, the questioning was beginning to touch on the difference between moral and legal responsibility and the 73-year-old, till recently Roman Catholic Archbishop of Sydney, had begun to be probed about why he had not settled with a man, John Ellis, who was abused by his Bass Hill parish priest for nearly 10 years (more). Extract from ABC News (Australia), Sunday 23 March 2014 A former victim of sexual abuse by priests will sit on a new commission created to root out paedophilia in the Catholic Church, the Vatican says. In a statement, Pope Francis revealed the first eight names of officials who will sit on the commission, which was first announced on December 5 last year. Among them is Marie Collins, an Irish abuse survivor who has been an outspoken campaigner for the rights of victims (more). Photo: Marie Collins, ABC News, AFP Andreas Solaro Newark archdiocese unveils policy for funerals of priests accused of abuse Extract from CatholicCulture.org 23 March 2014 (1ST published 17 March 2014) The Archdiocese of Newark, New Jersey has announced new policies governing the arrangements for funerals of priests who have been suspended from ministry because of sex-abuse allegations. Funerals for accused priests should not be held in the parishes where the alleged offenses were reported, the archdiocese said. A letter to the priests of the archdiocese explaining the new policy indicating that it was adopted to avoid causing new negative publicity (more). A Protestant's critique of Pope Francis' first year in office Extract from Bill Tammeus, National Catholic Reporter, Wednesday 19 March 2014 As our pastor approached the end of his recent sermon series, "Jesus, the Pope and a Protestant Walk into a Bar," he felt obliged to balance all the praise he'd given Pope Francis with at least a short list of his disagreements with the pontiff. So Paul Rock asked several friends, including me, to tell him not what we love about Francis, which is a lot, but what bothers us about his first year in office. I'll share with you what I said to Paul while acknowledging that's not up to us Protestants to tell Catholics how to behave, what to believe or how to organize their ecclesial life. We have enough trouble doing that for ourselves, after all. So here (minus the obvious and consistent Protestant complaint that we still aren't welcome to receive Communion in Catholic churches) was my list (more). German bishops explore new ‘merciful’ approach on divorce and remarriage Edited Extract from Christa Pongratz-Lippitt, The Tablet, Thursday 20 March 2014 On being elected the new president of the German bishops’ conference, Cardinal Reinhard Marx of Munich made his strongest statement to date on the need to allow remarried divorcees to receive communion. At the forthcoming Synod on the family in October the German bishops plan to campaign for a more merciful approach to remarried divorcees at the level of the world Church, Cardinal Marx told the press after the election. The bishops will present a paper on marriage as “an alliance and a Sacrament” which also goes into the need for mercy and forgiveness. They will propose a “pastoral way of reconciliation” for remarried divorcees. The final version of this paper will be drawn up when the permanent council of the bishops’ conference meets in April. Already in his sermon at Mass before his election, Marx had spoken of Pope Francis’ Apostolic Exhortation Evangelii gaudium and underlined the “explosive force” of mercy. Quoting Blessed Pope John XXIII, he had expressly warned against “prophets of doom”. The faithful “rightfully” expected the Church to accompany those whose marriages had broken down, Cardinal Marx said. “It must be clear that as a Church we say: ‘You are not second-class Christians. There is a chance of a new beginning and we would like to accompany you on this path.’ We must give this approach more positive support and step up our efforts here,” he emphasized. But at the same time he warned against expecting quick solutions. “The difficulties are being underestimated,” he said recalling that this whole question concerned the indissolubility of marriage, which was a central theological issue (more). Irish bishops' release of survey findings reveals gulf between church teaching and Catholics' real-life experience The Church’s teaching on marriage and family life is disconnected from the real-life experience of many Irish Catholics, the country’s bishops have acknowledged. Giving a summary of the responses to the Vatican questionnaire, the Irish Bishops Conference said it is not experienced by many Catholics as “realistic, compassionate or life-enhancing”. Many respondents expressed “particular difficulties” with the teachings on extra-marital sex and cohabitation by unmarried couples, divorce and remarriage, family planning, assisted human reproduction and homosexuality. Some found the Church’s position on these issues left them feeling “guilty and excluded,” the bishops said. The leadership of the Association of Catholic Priests (ACP) welcomed the bishops’ decision to release the summary, saying if people are asked for their opinion, it is important that the results be made known. The group said it was “now beyond dispute” that there was a serious gap or disconnect between official church teaching on family, relationships and sexuality and Catholics’ beliefs and practice. It suggested that the laity, clergy and bishops should come together and search for ways for bridge this gap. The bishops underlining that they had a responsibility to present the Church’s teaching on marriage and the family faithfully and in a positive and engaging way. But they admitted it must be done in a way that showed compassion and mercy towards those finding it difficult to accept or live the teachings (more). Extract from Frank O'Shea, Eureka Street, Tuesday 18 March 2014 Let us talk about Catholic priests. Consider especially those who are now in their 60s, after a life of service to their church. They were seminarians in the heady days of Vatican II when everything seemed possible. They managed to survive the aftermath of was Humanae Vitae and continued to preach and counsel, to lead the sacred rites and to be faithful leaders of their flocks. Some have directed retreats or preached parish missions; others have ministered to the young in schools and youth clubs; all have lived by the dictum that service to the least — the poor and mentally ill, the prisoners and prostitutes, the homeless and the addicted — is service to their god. But while their life has been exemplary, they cannot help being stained by association with those who have disgraced their calling (more). Catholicism in Australia: Demographics, scandal underlie tectonic shifts Extract from Tom Roberts, National Catholic Reporter, Monday 17 March 2014 ........In nearly two weeks of travel in and around Melbourne and Sydney last November, I conducted interviews and had conversations with dozens of church members, workers, officials and a variety of other observers. Though those encounters represent only a sliver of the vast and diverse reality of Australian Catholicism, some elements of church life about which there appears to be broad consensus came clear: Pope Francis plays an adroit game Extracts from Analysis, Robert Blair Kaiser, National Catholic Reporter, Thursday 13 March 2014 From his first appearance on the balcony of St. Peter's on March 13, 2013, we could see Pope Francis was trying to demythologize the imperial papacy. Instead of blessing the people below, he asked them to bless (and pray for) him. He did not refer to himself as "the pope" but as "the bishop of Rome," a far less pretentious and ecclesiologically correct title. He wore a simple metal cross on his breast, not a gold one. In short, it appeared he was stepping off the papal throne, presenting himself as he finally admitted in last week's interview with Corriere della Sera: "The pope is a man who laughs, cries, sleeps calmly and has friends like everyone -- a normal person."...........We happen to believe Pope Francis did not intend in his interview with Corriere della Sera to simply bury the fact unearthed by the synod's questionnaire that a preponderant majority of the world's Catholics have not received what still passes for the church's official teaching on birth control. In fact, Pope Francis told Corriere he expected the October synod to take up what many are beginning to recognize as still an open question (more). Winds of theological change at the Vatican Extract from Neil Ormerod, Eureka Street, Thursday 12 March 2014 Since the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI and the election of Pope Francis, there has been an ongoing debate about the aspects of continuity and discontinuity between them. Both men have been respectful and even deferential in their relationships with one another. Still no one can deny the impact Francis has had both internally in the Church and internationally where it seems the media cannot get enough of him. The question remains whether this is a difference in style or in substance. Is he saying the same things but in a more communicative style, or is he actually saying different things? (more) Photo: Eureka Street. Jury still out on Francis the game-changer Extracts from Paul Collins, Eureka Street, Thursday 12 March 2014 March is a wet month in Rome. It was raining when Pope Francis was elected on 13 March 2013, and it was pouring raining again when I was back there last week in preparation for his first anniversary.........But nothing seems to dampen media enthusiasm for Francis and his approach to what he calls his role as Bishop of Rome. Catholics committed to the renewal initiated by Vatican II feel that he has given them a new lease of life, and the well-informed, Rome-based journalist Robert Mickens, who writes for The Tablet, told me that Francis has already come 'too far' to retreat now to a more cautious stance..........The lesson here is that Francis will be nothing more than a flash in the pan if church structures are not changed. Sure, he has set up his 'Gang of Eight' cardinals to advise him on reform of the Vatican. But so far they have focused on cleaning up the Vatican Bank and the financial structures of the curia. While financial accountability is important, this is scarcely central to the proclamation of the Gospel, or a realisation of Vatican II ecclesiology..........The greatest danger we face is that we expect too much from Francis. Never forget that he is an Argentinean male. Sure, as Paul Vallely's excellent book Pope Francis: Untying the Knots shows he has undergone a genuine conversion to humility, a kind of simplicity, human warmth, directness, honest speech and 'looking at reality from the point of view of the poor' as Vatican-watcher Alessandro Speciale describes it.........But Francis is neither a progressive nor a reactionary. Essentially he brings a new perspective that has little to do with the preoccupations of the developed world. We shouldn't kid ourselves that he is a closet progressive (more). Fundamental flaws in the Synod on the Family Extract from Dr Astrid Lobo Gajwala, Mumbai, UCANews.com, 11 March 2014 The Extraordinary Synod on the Family scheduled for October has captured the attention of the faithful like no other synod. Simply because this time the bishops will be discussing an issue on which the laity are experts. The enthusiasm of the “laity” is plain to see from the numbers of user-friendly surveys that have spun off from the Vatican questionnaire addressed to the bishops last October. As the Catholic Organizations for Renewal, a US-basedpartnership of 15 Catholic groups observed in a letter to their bishops, “individual Catholics are hungry to make their voices heard”. However, a two-day meeting held on February 20 and 21 to discuss the Church’s pastoral approach to the family was exclusively for cardinals. One can only hope that in the run up to the synod, there will be more consultations that includerepresentatives of families to provide inputs and insights. My own reading of the questionnaire found two critical lacunae. As a woman functioning in an interfaith family for the past 25 years in a subcontinent where women form the anawim - or “poor ones” - vulnerable, exploited, marginalized, I felt excluded. I found no attempt to elicit information about the status of women in the family, a factor so crucial to the health of the family (more). Photo: UCANews.com Eric Hodgens. Sydney’s next bishop – what sort? Extract from Erik Hodgens, Pearls & Irritations, (John Menadue Blog), Tuesday 11 March 2014 What should we look for in a bishop for Sydney in these changing times? A Christian. One committed to Jesus’ message of love, forgiveness and compassion. One who holds that the Church is not just the hierarchy, but the People of God on a journey. A citizen of the world. One who, while suspicious of all “isms” including secularism and pluralism, loves the world’s secularity and plurality. One who sees this non-confessional culture as an ideal setting for proclaiming a message of hope and salvation amid the reality of sadness, loss, sickness, poverty and death. One who wants the believer’s response to be free, not enforced by state or tribe. A believer. Ideologues subscribe to platforms. Believers commit themselves to movements. Sydney needs a believer, not an ideologue. Ideologues have closed minds. Believers are self-critical and open to discussion – even change of mind. Ideologues like things to remain the same. Believers stay in contact with contemporary culture and know that all things are changing. As the cultural context changes they must recontextualize or die. They change their habits to maximise values........(more). The Pope's Bottom-up Revolution Change is in the air. It almost feels like a miracle. With these kinds of things going on, it's reasonable to believe that almost any kinds of positive change can be achieved.........I've often used the Catholic Church as an example of an ancient hierarchical organization. Now it looks like Pope Francis is engaging in a collection of reforms that amount to a bottom-up revolution-- actively confronting hierarchy AND centralization. This is huge. It's huge for the Catholic Church, but, because of the size and reach of the church and its deep, deep effect upon cultures, even non Catholic and non-Christian ones, it also portends seismic changes that will affect the rest of the world-- and further contribute to the multitude of ways that the bottom-up revolution is changing the face of humanity. In his article, Pope Francis' Reforms For The Catholic Church May Be Bigger Than Anyone Dreamed, David Gibson says, the Pope is working on " ambitious (and perhaps more difficult) goal: overhauling and upending the institutional culture of Catholicism." Gibson doesn't characterize the changes the Pope is instituting as bottom-up, but they fit the profile very closely.......I'll say it again. Change is in the air. It almost feels like a miracle. With these kinds of things going on, it's reasonable to believe that almost anything can be achieved (full article here). After a conclave that demanded reform, a year of 'fresh air' Extract from Gerard O'Connell, National Catholic Reporter, Saturday 8 March 2014 .............One year later, Bergoglio's reform is turning out to be much deeper and wider than most, if not all, of his electors had anticipated. England's Cardinal Cormac Murphy-O'Connor put it this way: "We all wanted change and reform, but I don't think any of us expected so much fresh air!"..........His reform is first and foremost a spiritual one. He aims at a conversion of hearts and minds, a change of attitudes, on the part of all who work in the Vatican and in positions of responsibility in the church. At morning Mass in Casa Santa Marta, the Vatican hostel where he lives, Francis delivers challenging, Scripture-based homilies that are the soul of his spiritual-cultural revolution. The Jesuit pope is not simply advocating reform by words, he is propelling it forward by the striking example of his own humble, prayerful lifestyle, his preferential option for the poor, his vision of an inclusive church "that is poor and for the poor," his promotion of "a culture of encounter" and "rejection of a culture of confrontation," and his effort to discern what the Spirit is saying to the church...........Indeed, he is moving from a monarchical style of church governance to a more collegial mode. "Excessive centralization, rather than proving helpful, complicates the church's life and her missionary outreach," he wrote in Evangelii Gaudium, calling for a "pastoral conversion" of "the central structures of the universal church."...(more) Photo: CNS/L'sservatore Romano via Reuters Extract from NCR Editorial Thursday 6 March 2014 "Last year on Holy Thursday, you shook up and inspired the world by attending to and washing the feet of young prisoners in Rome. We implore you to turn the world’s focus this Holy Thursday on a healing service for victims of sexual abuse by priests. Listen to their stories. Wash their feet. Unless this deep wound is attended to in a loving and understanding way — unless the world’s pastor is able to attend compassionately to this horrible injustice within his own family — the wound will only continue to fester and dwarf all the other pastoral and institutional reforms you have initiated." (more) Pope sees scope for ‘kindness’ and pastoral response to contraception ban Extract from The Tablet, Wednesday 5 March 2014 Pope Francis has said that the church leadership needs to “take into account people’s situations” and their ability to adhere to the ban on artificial contraception. A wide-ranging interview with the editor-in-chief of the Italian daily Corriere della Sera, Ferruccio de Bortoli, is published today. Francis praises Paul VI, who authored the encyclical Humanae Vitae, for defending “moral discipline" but when asked if the Church should rethink its ban on contraception, he replied: “It all depends on how the text of Humanae Vitae is interpreted. Paul VI himself, towards the end, recommended that confessors show great kindness and attention to specific situations.” He added: “The question is not that of changing doctrine, but to go into the depths, and ensuring that pastoral [efforts] take into account people’s situations, and that which it is possible for people to do.” He added that the subject would be discussed at October’s Synod of bishops on the Family (more). Where do bishops come from? Extract from Eric Hodgens, Pearls and Irritations (John Menadue blog), Wednesday 5 March 2014 Sydney needs a new archbishop who has every chance of becoming a cardinal once Cardinal Pell turns 80. How do we get a new bishop? The pope will appoint one. Since 1917 he has claimed the right to do so. History is not on the side of that claim – but that is another story (more). Extracts from George Cardinal Pell, The Catholic weekly, 5 March 2014 Most people have not heard much about the Roman Curia, the civil service in the Vatican, but Catholics are well aware of the scandals which have plagued the Pope’s civil service off and on for some decades.........In the most important decision of his pontificate (after deciding not to live in the Papal apartments) Pope Francis has just announced a far-reaching reform of the Vatican financial system. Most important of all the measures was the decision that these basic policies would not be decided by any individual cardinal, but by a council made up of eight cardinals, and seven senior financial experts, all lay people, from around the world. The involvement of senior non-clerical lay men or women, not as advisers but as full voting members, is an important development for the Church. Such senior business people bring a financial expertise rarely found in cardinals or archbishops. I believe they will prove to be a most effective deterrent to corruption in both the short and long term (more). Francis convenes religious institute treasurers for summit on use of money Extract from Joshua McElwee, Catholic News, Monday 3 March 2014 Pope Francis has asked the treasurers of the thousands of Catholic religious orders around the world to meet in Rome this weekend to discuss how they can use their orders' financial assets "for the service of humanity." The first-of-its-kind summit puts an unusual focus on the wealth of the orders. Last fall Francis pointedly asked leaders of religious orders to reevaluate management of their assets, especially empty monasteries and convents which in recent years have frequently been turned over to non-religious pursuits, such as hotels and restaurants. The event, to be held near the Vatican March 8-9, has not been announced publicly but is expected to draw hundreds of representatives of the estimated 900,000 men and women religious globally. It is to have 15 talks on issues ranging from the use of church property, to financial debts, to economic solidarity. "The economy often plays a defining role in human history and in religious history, and particularly in the culture of this present day," states a letter sent from the Vatican's Congregation for Religious to superiors of orders around the world announcing the meeting. "On the one hand, within this culture, religious men and women are almost induced or forced to be involved in the mechanisms of the laws of modern economics," the letter continues. "On the other hand they are aware that they can run the risk of losing their true identity." (more) Photo: CNS/L'Osservatore Romano Liberation theology founder gets hero’s welcome at Vatican Extract from CathNews, Monday 3 March 2014 The Rev Gustavo Gutierrez of Peru was the surprise speaker last Tuesday at a book launch featuring the head of the Vatican’s orthodoxy office, Cardinal Gerhard Mueller; one of Francis’ top advisers, Cardinal Oscar Rodriguez Maradiaga; and the Vatican spokesman. The former Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger spent much of his tenure at Mueller’s Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith battling liberation theology and disciplining some of its most famous defenders, arguing that they had misinterpreted Jesus’ preference for the poor into a Marxist call for armed rebellion. That interpretation was powerfully attractive to many Latin Americans in the 1960s and 1970s who were raised Catholic, taught by Marxist-influenced teachers and outraged by the inequality and bloody repression around them. Gutierrez and his backers insist true liberation theology was always perfectly in line with the Church’s social teaching about the poor, which Francis embraces. Francis wrote the preface of Mueller’s book, Poor for the Poor: The Mission of the Church, which contains two chapters written by Gutierrez. Gutierrez, 85, received a round of applause when the Vatican spokesman noted his presence and another round when he approached the podium to speak about the parable of the Good Samaritan. Pope Francis, the former Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, has had a complicated relationship with liberation theology, clashing with left-leaning members of his Jesuit order who took up its politicized call to confront Argentina’s violent military dictatorship in the 1970s. Nevertheless, Francis fully embraces the call for the Church to have a 'preferential option for the poor (more). Kasper Changes the Paradigm, Bergoglio Applauds Extract from Sandro Magister, www.chiesa.espressinline.it, Saturday 2 March 2014 Cardinal Kasper's inaugural address at the consistory last week is no longer under lock and key. It has been made public, in a journalistic masterstroke, by the Italian newspaper “Il Foglio" directed by Giuliano Ferrara, which has preempted by far the publication of this same talk in book form by the publisher Queriniana. But that this talk should remain secret had already become nonsensical, after the words with which Pope Francis had honored it on February 21, at the end of the two days of the consistory dedicated to the question of the family: In the course of his talk, Kasper said that he wanted "only to pose questions” because “a response will be the task of the synod in harmony with the pope.” But to read what he said to the cardinals, his are much more than questions, they are solidly built proposals for a solution. To which Pope Francis has already demonstrated he means to adhere. And they are forceful proposals, a real "paradigm change.” In particular on what Kasper himself maintains to be the problem of problems, communion for the divorced and remarried, to which he dedicated more than half of his two-hour talk (more). Image: www.chiesa.espressonline.it † Bishops need not be crusaders, but pastors, Francis says Extracts from Joshua McElwee, National Catholic Reporter, Thursday 27 February 2014 Pope Francis on Thursday re-emphasized his vision of who should be chosen as Catholic bishops around the world, telling the Vatican office responsible for their selection he wants prelates who are "genuine pastors" and who will "argue with God on behalf of [their] people." In a nearly 3,000-word text to the Vatican's Congregation for Bishops, Francis tells the office they should not look for bishops based on any "preferences, likes, or trends" and likewise should not seek prelates who are mainly concerned with doctrinal matters. The church, writes Francis, needs "guardians of doctrine not so as as to measure how far the world is from doctrinal truth but to appeal to the world to charm it with the beauty of love [and] to seduce it with the freedom bestowed by the Gospel.". "The church does not need apologists of its causes nor crusaders of its battles, but sowers humble and confident of the truth, who ... trust of its power," the pontiff continues.......Under the Vatican's process for picking bishops, the papal ambassador, or nuncio, in each country is responsible for compiling a list of names of candidates, called a terna, for openings as they arise. That terna is then submitted to the Congregation for Bishops, whose members vote on the final list to be submitted to the pope..........."A man who lacks the courage to argue with God on behalf of his people can not be bishop - I say this from the heart, I am convinced," he states. Referencing an address he gave to papal nuncios last June -- when the pontiff told them he wanted them to find bishops who are "close to the people, fathers and brothers" -- Francis states: "I repeat that the church needs genuine pastors." (more) Pope Francis writes to families asking for their prayers ahead of October Synod Extract from The Tablet, Monday 26 February 2014 "Dear families, With this letter, I wish, as it were, to come into your homes to speak about an event which will take place at the Vatican this coming October. It is the Extraordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops, which is being convened to discuss the theme of “pastoral challenges to the family in the context of evangelisation”. Indeed, in our day the Church is called to proclaim the Gospel by confronting the new and urgent pastoral needs facing the family. This important meeting will involve all the People of God – bishops, priests, consecrated men and women, and lay faithful of the particular Churches of the entire world – all of whom are actively participating in preparations for the meeting through practical suggestions and the crucial support of prayer. Such support on your part, dear families, is especially significant and more necessary than ever. This Synodal Assembly is dedicated in a special way to you, to your vocation and mission in the Church and in society; to the challenges of marriage, of family life, of the education of children; and the role of the family in the life of the Church. I ask you, therefore, to pray intensely to the Holy Spirit, so that the Spirit may illumine the Synodal Fathers and guide them in their important task" (more). Catholics for Renewal Inc. Media Release on Cardinal Pell’s Transfer to the Vatican Extracts from Media Release, Peter Johnstone OAM, Chair, Catholics for Renewal Inc. Tuesday 25 February 2014 Catholics for Renewal welcomes the appointment of Cardinal George Pell to the new Vatican position of Prefect of the Secretariat for the Economy, and his vacating the Archdiocese of Sydney. Cardinal Pell, who will be 73 in June, was described by the English Catholic magazine The Tablet as “arguably the most conservative” of the eight cardinal advisers to Pope Francis. He headed the Committee that supervised the English translation of the Roman Missal, a translation that was seen by many as failing to engage the people of the Church. It is worth observing that Cardinal Pell’s new economic role is essentially administrative and could be ably filled by many prominent and skilled lay women and men with international reputations in the fields of banking, finance and corporate governance.............Catholics for Renewal sees the selection and appointment of a new Archbishop of Sydney as presenting a valuable opportunity for the people of the Church in Sydney to think carefully about the qualities they want in a new pastor, and to claim a rightful role in the selection process. This is critically important at a time when the Church is facing a crisis of governance and dwindling attendances (full media release here). Australia's most senior Catholic cleric Cardinal George Pell is to leave his post as Archbishop of Sydney and take on a new role at the Vatican. In the new role, the 72-year-old will be responsible for preparing the Holy See and Vatican's annual budget, as well as financial planning and enhanced internal controls. The new ministry is the first decisive action by Pope Francis in the wake of scandals at the Vatican bank. "The Holy Father today announced a new coordination structure for economic and administrative affairs of the Holy See and the Vatican State," it said in a statement. The Vatican said the move followed recommendations made by cardinals advising the Pope, including for a "more formal commitment" to international standards. The changes "will ensure better use of resources, improving the support available for various programs, particularly our works with the poor," it said. It is seen as a plum posting for Cardinal Pell, who will relocate to the Vatican by the end of next month (more). CathNews, Monday 24 February 2014 Cath News has published a unique, ad-hoc video message from Pope Francis. It is close-up and personal. It was directed to an American Pentecostal conference by way of his friend, an Evangelical Episcopal Bishop, but relates to everyone. It is the most intimate personal video profile ever recorded by any Pope in history. He does not preach but rather speaks directly and personally with each viewer as a brother or sister in Christ. Spoken in Italian but with English sub-titles Pope Francis begins briefly in English (here) Extract from Pope Francis Homily at Mass with New Cardinals, Vatican Basilica, Sunday 23 February 2014 Dear brother Cardinals, the Lord Jesus and mother Church ask us to witness with greater zeal and ardour to these ways of being holy. It is exactly in this greater self-gift, freely offered, that the holiness of a Cardinal consists. We love, therefore, those who are hostile to us; we bless those who speak ill of us; we greet with a smile those who may not deserve it. We do not aim to assert ourselves; we oppose arrogance with meekness; we forget the humiliations that we have endured. May we always allow ourselves to be guided by the Spirit of Christ, who sacrificed himself on the Cross so that we could be “channels” through which his charity might flow. This is the attitude of a Cardinal, this must be how he acts. A Cardinal – I say this especially to you – enters the Church of Rome, my brothers, not a royal court. May all of us avoid, and help others to avoid, habits and ways of acting typical of a court: intrigue, gossip, cliques, favouritism and partiality. May our language be that of the Gospel: “yes when we mean yes; no when we mean no”; may our attitudes be those of the Beatitudes, and our way be that of holiness. Let pray once more: “Merciful Father, by your help, may we be ever attentive to the voice of the Spirit” (full Homily here) Synod 'Family' Survey Summary of Responses - Diocese of St Petersburg, USA Sunday 23 February 2014 The U.S. Diocese of St. Petersburg produced a modified (simplified) online Survey and whilst promoting the survey widely received responses from 6815 "adult members of the faithful ". The Diocese has published a detailed analysis of its results, which may be accessed here. Decline in public trust towards religion in Poland Extracts from Catholic News, Friday 21 February 2014 I love Pope Francis, I love him not Extract from Opinion Piece by Kate Childs Graham, National Catholic Reporter, Thursday 20 February 2014 I'd wager -- and I think the polls back me up -- that Pope Francis' welcoming spirit makes most people in the pews positively giddy. But then we've got those who sit in the far-right or far-left pews. For these Catholics -- and I'd count myself among them -- our feelings on Pope Francis are complicated and at times conflicted. There have been plenty of reports on far-right Catholics who are finding it difficult to stomach some of the pope's progressive sentiments. Philadelphia Archbishop Charles Chaput said conservative Catholics "generally have not been really happy" since Pope Francis' election. And judging from the actions of some who fall into this bucket, I'd wager that he's right. On one hand, when Pope Francis dispels right-wing ideologies on economics, right-wing Catholics have been quick to wave their hands and say, "Nothing to see here. Pope Francis isn't saying anything new." And if they are really desperate, they have even been known to admit that, when it comes to public policy recommendations, the pope isn't infallible. On the other hand, when Pope Francis says anything that sniffs of prohibiting a woman's right to choose or a woman's place in the priesthood or any of the backward logic this pope has spewed on women's equality, the conservative Catholics are on it, claiming the pontiff as the supreme moral authority. Lefty Catholics have a similar struggle, albeit in the opposite direction. I've experienced this struggle firsthand. I haven't been shy about the fact that I'm a fan of Pope Francis. It is great to have a world leader waxing poetic about issues I care about, particularly economic justice. It's moving to have a pope who doesn't want to judge me for who I am or who I love. It's thrilling to hear friends, Catholic and non-Catholic alike, talk about my church in excited tones instead of scandal-driven groans (more). Pope tells cardinals to ‘deepen’ theology of family and emphasizes pastoral care Extract from Robert Mickens and Abigail Fryman, The Tablet, Wednesday 19 February 2014 Pope Francis told the world’s cardinals gathered in Rome this morning that they had to “to deepen the theology of the family and discern the pastoral practices which our present situation requires”. He was introducing as a keynote speaker at the pre-consistory meetings Cardinal Walter Kasper, who has long urged the Vatican to rethink its exclusion of divorced and remarried Catholics from receiving communion. Kasper, 80, the former head of the Vatican’s ecumenical office, is to address the College of Cardinals along with the 19 men, including Westminster Archbishop Vincent Nichols, who are to receive the red hat from the Pope on Saturday. Today and tomorrow the men will take part in two days of wide-ranging talks on issues regarding the family – a broad topic that Pope Francis has asked the Church to ponder ahead of the meeting of the Synod of Bishops in October. Introducing Kasper this morning, Pope Francis cautioned the cardinals against “falling into ‘casuistry’, because this would inevitably diminish the quality of our work.” “We are called to make known God’s magnificent plan for the family and to help spouses joyfully experience this plan in their lives, as we accompany them amidst so many difficulties.” He described the family as “the fundamental cell of society” and “an image of the Triune God” because it originated from “the Creator bless[ing] man and woman” (more) Family Survey: Japanese bishops say Catholics’ minority status challenges faith life Extract from Barb Frazer, Catholic News Service, CatholicPhilly.com, 19 February 2014 Japanese Catholics, less than 1 percent of the country’s population, are challenged to try to live the faith in a nonreligious society, the nation’s bishops said. In their published response to the Vatican survey for the extraordinary Synod of Bishops on the family this fall, the bishops said most Japanese Christians end up marrying non-Christians, which affects how many of them receive the sacrament of marriage, attend Mass or baptize their children. This even affects prayer life, they said: “Because homes where the whole family is Catholic are few, rather than praying as a family, it is more common to pray as individuals.” In the context of marriages of mixed religions, the bishops said, “we must ask what a Christian household and family mean.” “Generally speaking, the transmission of faith to the next generation is difficult,” the bishops said. “Japanese society does not support expressions of faith commitment, and some young people increasingly perceive the church as a club of the elderly.” In a 15-page document published on the website of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Japan, the bishops said that “Christian family life is being overwhelmed by society’s values.” Though children may grow up in a Christian household, they said, “the values they acquire are those of society. Made to dance to the tune of a society that emphasizes study for the sake of fitting in economically, and desiring to not become social outcasts, young people have no leeway to nurture a vocation. This is the greatest crisis for faith that arises in homes.” (more) Photo: Oura Catholic Church in Nagasaki, said to be the oldest Christian church in Japan. Picture: Sean Pavone/Shutterstock.com Extract from Fr William Grimm, publisher UCA News (based in Tokyo), Monday 17 February 2014 2014 The bishops of the world have started sending Rome their responses to the questionnaire put out by the preparation committee for the Extraordinary Synod on "Pastoral Challenges to the Family in the Context of Evangelization" that will take place next October. In many countries, bishops have taken the unprecedented step of inviting the participation of the entire local Church in formulating the response. The bishops of the German-speaking countries have recently attracted international attention because their reports make it clear that while the People of God in their countries are committed to the Church, they do not fully understand or accept various teachings that touch upon sex, especially those concerning birth control, remarriage after the failure of a previous marriage and cohabitation before marriage. As more responses are submitted and made public, we will probably find that the same is true of Catholics in many countries, certainly in the West, though increasingly elsewhere as well. It may be that the Spirit-infused sensus fidelium (consensus of the faithful, laity as well as clergy) is calling for a re-examination of the ways in which we live as sexual people in the Church, even though some of those ways are ancient. The Synod will have to take these attitudes into account, even if ultimately the bishops reject them in part or in toto. Readers of ucanews.com will, of course, be interested in knowing what our bishops in Asia are presenting to Rome in preparation for the Synod. But, will we know? While at least some of Asia’s bishops have already sent their responses to Rome, I am not aware of any bishops’ conference from this continent that has published those responses. It would be a mistake, bad manners and even an injustice not to do so (more). Ed: Another report suggests that in India Catholics weren't made aware of the survey. One of the most blatant expressions of such clericalism is propagated in an Instruction of the Congregation for the Clergy (the congregation of the Roman Curia responsible for overseeing matters regarding priests and deacons not belonging to religious orders), 'On certain questions regarding the collaboration of the non-ordained faithful in the sacred ministry of the priest'. This was issued on 15 August 1997 after being approved by Pope John Paul II two days earlier. It can still be found on the Vatican website. In many ways it became the basis for the Statement of Conclusions presented to the Australian Bishops following the 1998 Oceania Synod of Bishops. Generations of Australian priests have shared the lives and aspirations of their people, listening to their stories and responding to their needs. Yet this document criticised such attitudes for being too egalitarian. Good priests across Australia were and still are appalled at such expressions of clericalism. Many, myself included, believe that unbridled and unquestioning acceptance of authority in so many aspects of Church life is one of the key factors contributing to a climate which gave rise to clerical sexual abuse. That is precisely what angers my friend quoted above. He and so many dedicated pastoral priests believe they had no say in the direction Church authorities were dictating, yet they are bearing the brunt of its consequences. Even now they witness individuals and groups calling for reform being ignored and treated as troublemakers (more). *Pat Power is retired Auxiliary Bishop of Canberra and Goulburn. In rare public split, Catholic bishops differ sharply on anti-gay laws Extracts from David Gibson Religion News Service, National Catholic Reporter, 13 February 2014 Cardinal Cormac Murphy-O’Connor believes that Confession is in need of significant reform and should be discussed at a special synod on the sacraments. The Archbishop Emeritus of Westminster has called for “proper reform to the sacrament” and says Confession has not received “serious reflection by any authoritative people within the Church” despite declining numbers of Catholics making use of the sacrament. The remarks come in a private letter to the Cambridge academic and author John Cornwell, who is campaigning for a ban on childhood Confession and who sent the cardinal a new book he has written on the sacrament (more). The Roman Catholic hierarchy has generally been viewed as a unified bloc in opposition to gay rights, but the emergence of especially punitive measures against gays in various countries has opened unusually stark and public fissures among bishops in different nations......The issue is especially pressing in Africa, where Nigeria, the continent's most populous country, recently adopted a harsh law that imposes a 14-year prison term for anyone entering into a same-sex relationship, as well as a 10-year sentence for anyone found to support gay clubs or meetings. Even public displays of affection by gays and lesbians is considered a crime. Legislation imposing similarly repressive sanctions on gays has been proposed in Uganda, Cameroon and Tanzania. In Nigeria, the leader of the hierarchy fully supported that country's new law, which prompted a wave of violence against gays when it passed......A few days later, however, a strongly worded editorial in the The Southern Cross, a newspaper run jointly by the bishops of South Africa, Botswana and Swaziland, took aim at the new law, calling on the Catholic church in Africa "to stand with the powerless" and "sound the alarm at the advance throughout Africa of draconian legislation aimed at criminalizing homosexuals." (more) Australian 2011 Parish Social Profiles published Edited Extract from covering letter by Archbishop Julian Porteous (Chair, Australian Catholic Council for Pastoral Research), 10 February 2014 This parish social profile, produced for every Catholic parish in Australia, is an outcome of the National Catholic Census Project established by the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference at the time of the1991 Census, and it is managed by the ACBC Pastoral Research Office located at the Melbourne campus of the Australian Catholic University. This just published 2011 profile is provided free of charge by the Bishops Conference as part of its commitment to the support of parish life, and may be accessed here Bishops publish Swiss pre-synodal survey report Based on Schweizer Boschopskonferenz report 04.02.2014, Thursday 13 February 2013 Further to the German Bishops the Swiss Bishops via the Bishops Conference have also just now publicly published their pre-synodal survey report on their website (in German). Based on over 25,000 respondents it reveals both strong faith plus their clearly expressed need for renewal in relation to family matters. Not only did the Bishops decide to make their report public, they furthermore cut through a great deal of ecclesisatical language to make the document publicly useful. Responses appear to have much in common with German responses and comes mostly from 'the faithful' more than those who are disenchanted. An EnglIsh translation of the original German document may be downloaded here It’s time for the bishops and the ACP to talk Extract from Association of Catholic Priests, Austria, 8 February 2014 The Austrian bishops, led by Cardinal Schönborn of Vienna, recently went on their ‘ad limina’ visit to the Vatican, where they had what sounds like a fascinating discussion with Pope Francis. They brought with them the results of the Vatican survey, which they had taken very seriously and about which they had consulted widely. Among other findings was that 95% of Austrian Catholics believe that people who are divorced and remarried should be admitted to the sacraments. They seem to have had no fear bringing such findings to Rome, and neither was Francis shocked by them. Schönborn says that he responded by saying: “Don’t judge, but look closely and listen very carefully,”(more). Extract from Christa Pongratz-Lippitt, National Catholic Reporter, 7 February 2014 "It is fascinating to see how Pope Francis is encouraging, reviving and renewing the church. Our meeting with him was an excellent lesson on how to live the Gospel today," Cardinal Christoph Schönborn of Vienna said after a 90-minute audience with the pope during the Austrian bishops' "ad limina" visit to the Vatican in the last week of January. The Austrian bishops took the results of the recent Vatican questionnaire to Rome with them. Responses showed that 95 percent of those who had filled out the questionnaire in Austria were in favor of allowing divorced and remarried Catholics to receive the sacraments.The subject of family relationships today and how the church should deal with them played an important role at the Jan. 30 meeting with the pope, Schönborn said. "We cannot speak about people without speaking about families," Francis said, explaining that was why the subject of the coming Synod of Bishops in October had been altered from bioethics to the family. Francis spoke of his experiences in Latin America, where the situation of marriage and the family was, to a certain extent, "far more dramatic" than in Europe, Schönborn said. It is important to realize that today many couples live together without getting married and have children, then later marry in a registry office, with some opting for a church marriage, the pope explained. The church must take this way of life seriously and accompany the couples on their way, Francis underlined. His basic message was "Don't judge, but look closely and listen very carefully," Schönborn said (more). ‘Troublemaker’ pope reshaping church, but drawing some skepticism Extracts from the Catholic Sun, 5 February 2014 As early on as it is for the pontificate of Pope Francis, his statements and actions already have given guidance for how simple changes can improve the world, said panelists at Georgetown University......John Carr, moderator and the initiative’s director, mentioned some of the pope’s recent actions that might suit the “troublemaker” description, including telling the 19 priests and bishops he named cardinals in January to “leave the entourage at home,” and not to plan big parties to celebrate.........Kerry Robinson, executive director of the National Leadership Roundtable on Church Management, said the pope is a troublemaker “for those who want nothing to change.” She later said one type of change she hopes is possible under Pope Francis is to expand and elevate the role of women. She said her organization has been encouraging staff of Vatican offices to identify leadership roles in the curia that may be held by women..........There are many high level posts “that don’t violate canon law or doctrine” which could raise the profile of women in the church, and address one area of harsh criticism about the nature of the institution, Robinson said. New York Times columnist Ross Douthat, author of books including “Bad Religion: How We Became a Nation of Heretics,” said Pope Francis “is obviously a troublemaker.” Less than a year into the pontificate, “he has revolutionized the papacy in ways I would not have thought possible a year ago.” More amazingly, said Douthat, is that the pope has accomplished this without major doctrinal changes, and primarily with symbolic measures........There are likely some cardinals “who would admit some things he’s done make them nervous,” Allen said. But in general, they also likely appreciate that the enormous popularity of Pope Francis makes life easier for them, as people want to know more about the pope........Douthat said he remains skeptical about the institutional impact Pope Francis may have in the long term........“Pope John Paul II gave the impression of dragging the church into the modern world,” Douthat said, “but the apparatus stayed outdated.” If people learn anything from the words and example of Pope Francis, Allen said he would like people within the church to stop running everything he says “through the meat grinder,” parsing phrases for meanings that can be used to achieve a political gain (full report). UN condemns Holy See's abuse record, calls for removal of priests suspected of having abused Extract from Abigail Frymann, National Catholic Reporter, 5 February 2014 The United Nations demanded that the Holy See "immediately remove" all clergy who are known or suspected of having abused minors and report them to civil authorities. The UN committee on Protection on Rights of the Child today issued a damning and wide-ranging 16-page report following the appearance of a Vatican delegation in Geneva three weeks ago. The watchdog said the Holy See should also hand over its records on abuse of tens of thousands of children so that culprits, as well as "those who concealed their crimes", could be held accountable. "The Committee is gravely concerned that the Holy See has not acknowledged the extent of the crimes committed, has not taken the necessary measures to address cases of child sexual abuse and to protect children, and has adopted policies and practices which have led to the continuation of the abuse by and the impunity of the perpetrators," the report said. It added: “The Committee is particularly concerned that in dealing with allegations of child sexual abuse, the Holy See has consistently placed the preservation of the reputation of the Church and the protection of the perpetrators above children’s best interests.” (more) The Catholic Bishops Conference of England of Wales (CBCEW) has received 16,500 responses to their survey on ‘Pastoral Challenges in the Family,’ but a spokesman for the Conference said that details of the responses will remain confidential. “In accordance with the wishes of the Holy See, the summary of the responses sent to the Synod of Bishops is confidential,” said the spokesman. “However, the statistical information shows a high level of engagement in the consultation process. Summary reports were received from all 22 Dioceses in England and Wales, as well as reports from the Personal Ordinariate of Our Lady of Walsingham and the Apostolic Prefecture of the Falkland Islands.” The spokesman revealed that diocese received emails, letters and online forms from Catholics across the country, ahead of the Extraordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops which is due to take place at the Vatican in October. The spokesman said: “Analysis of 12,266 online responses indicates that 80% of respondents were laity, 69% were married and 38% were parents. 20% of respondents were in positions of responsibility within the Church as priests, chaplains, catechists, teachers, deacons, seminarians, or pastoral assistants (more). German bishops tell Vatican: Catholics reject sex rules Extract from Tom Heneghan, Religion Editor, Reuters, Monday 3 February 2014 (Reuters) Germany's Catholic bishops, responding to a worldwide Vatican survey, said on Monday that many Church teachings on sexual morality were either unknown to the faithful there or rejected as unrealistic and heartless. They said the survey, drawn up for a synod on possible reforms in October, showed most German Catholics disputed Church bans on birth control and premarital or gay sex and criticized rules barring the divorced from remarriage in church. The results will not be news to many Catholics, especially in affluent Western countries, but the blunt official admission of this wide gap between policy and practice is uncommon and bound to raise pressure on Pope Francis to introduce reforms. Bishops in Germany, one of the richest and most influential national churches in the 1.2-billion-strong Catholic world, have been pressing the Vatican to reform, especially over divorce. A statement from the German bishops conference called the results "a sober inventory of what German Catholics appreciate about Church teaching on marriage and the family and what they find offputting or unacceptable, either mostly or completely." (more) ED: The German Bishop's Conference full report (PRESSEMITTEILUNGEN DER DEUTSCHEN BISCHOFSKONFERENZ) may be downloaded in English here) Plans revealed for year of religious life Extract from Cindy Wooden, Catholic News Service, National Catholic Reporter, 1 February 2014 Pope Francis has called for a special yearlong focus on consecrated life, asking the church's religious sisters, brothers and priests to "wake up the world" with their testimony of faith, holiness and hope, a Vatican official said. "Consecrated men and women are aware that besides recounting the great stories they have written in the past, they are called to write a no-less-beautiful and great story in the future," said Cardinal Joao Braz de Aviz, prefect of the Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life. At a news conference Jan. 31, the cardinal spoke about plans for the 2015 Year for Consecrated Life, which Pope Francis announced in November (more). Pope says Internet a 'gift from God,' should be used for solidarity Extract from Carl Glatz, Catholic News Service, Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne, Friday 24 January 2014 Like the good Samaritan, who stopped on the road to help a person in need, travelers along today's communication highways should offer support to those they encounter there, Pope Francis said. "The digital world can be an environment rich in humanity; a network not of wires but of people," he said in his message for World Communications Day. Modern means of communication, especially the Internet, offer "immense possibilities for encounter and solidarity," he said. Because of that, he said, the Internet is "a gift from God." "Communication at the service of an authentic culture of encounter" is the theme of this year's World Communications Day, which most dioceses will mark June 1, the Sunday before Pentecost. The message, released Jan. 23, was dated Jan. 24, the feast of St. Francis de Sales, the patron saint of journalists. "Good communication helps us grow closer, to know one another better, and ultimately to grow in unity," the pope said (more) Pope's pointers for Australian welfare review reflection on the human good: "In the context of your meeting, I wish to emphasise the importance that the various political and economic sectors have in promoting an inclusive approach which takes into consideration the dignity of every human person and the common good. I'm referring to a concern that ought to shape every political and economic decision, but which at times seems to be little more than an afterthought. Those working in these sectors have a precise responsibility towards others, particularly those who are most frail, weak and vulnerable.". He insisted that the economy should serve human beings, and not human beings the economy. He proposed a view of economic equality that 'demands first of all a transcendent vision of the person. It also calls for decisions, mechanisms and processes directed to a better distribution of wealth, the creation of sources of employment and an integral promotion of the poor which goes beyond a simple welfare mentality.' (more).

Asteroid 2012 TC4, which is roughly the size of a house, passed very close to Earth on Friday. The asteroid, if it had hit Earth, could have caused significant issues, however, scientists said in advance of the close shave that there was no risk of it hitting our planet. The asteroid passed by Earth about 59,000 miles (95,000 km) away, which is about 25 percent of the distance to the moon, according to NASA scientists monitoring the asteroid. The asteroid was first spotted on Oct. 4 by astronomers, and was measured to be aout 17 meters (56 feet) in width. "Small asteroid 2012 TC4 will safely pass Earth Oct 12 at just .25 the distance to our moon's orbit," scientists with NASA's Asteroid Watch program wrote in a Twitter update earlier in the week. Excited astronomers across the globe rushed to their telescopes once they heard that the asteroid was large enough to be seen through small household telescopes. Scientists across the world, including those at NASA, are constantly observing the skies for any potentially dangerous asteroids heading close to or directly at the Earth. On Thursday it was also announced that by about 2017 scientists will hope to launch a private space telescope which will be dedicated to analyzing the skies and seeking out any potentially dangerous asteroids coming our way. The project to launch the Sentinel Space Telescope passed a major review milestone recently and it will be moving ahead full steam to have the project completed and ready by 2017. The Sentinel Space Telescope will be sent out to search for asteroids from an observation spot near the orbit of Venus. From there it will analyze space and transmit its findings back to scientists on Earth. Scientists have confirmed that asteroid 2012 TC4 is too small to pose any major risk to Earth, and it is thought that the asteroid would need to be about 140 meters (460 feet) in width to cause major devastation to our planet. Here is a video produced by NASA showing an asteroid approaching Earth earlier this year.

An Imaging Study to Compare Methods to Reduce 4DCT Image Acquisition Artifacts By using 4D CT scans, researchers can create images that show how air moves through the lungs. This new method to check lung function may make better images than the standard methods. Researchers will compare 4 images of how air moves through your lungs and 1 image while you hold your breath. If you are found to be eligible to take part in this study (if the screening test is applicable) and you agree to take part in this study, you will be enrolled in 1 of 2 study groups, depending on when you join the study. There will be up to 18 participants in each group. In the first group, researchers will test several different methods to create images of how air moves through the lungs. Researchers will then select the most successful methods from the first group and try to do them again with the second group. You will have 1 visit for this study. At this visit, you will have 4 (or 3 for Group 2) 4D CT scans performed while you are breathing normally. You will also have 1 scan while you hold your breath for less than 20 seconds. The CT scans will take about 5 minutes each to The 4D CT scan will cover the entire chest area using the standard dose of radiation. A 2-inch plastic box will be placed on top of your chest to track the motion of your chest while you breathe during each scan. Some parts of your chest will be scanned up to 2 more times based on your breathing. The entire scanning session will take about 45 minutes to complete. Length of Participation: Your active participation on the study will be over when you have completed your study Follow-Up Phone Call: Within 7 days after your study visit, the study staff will call you to ask about any side effects you may be having. This call should last about 2 minutes. If anything unusual is found in the imaging, your cancer doctor will be told so that you can This is an investigational study. The CT scans used in this study are delivered using FDA-approved and commercially available systems. Creating images of how air moves through the lungs from 4D CT scans is considered investigational. Up to 36 patients will take part in this study. All will be enrolled at M. D. Anderson. Observational Model: Cohort, Time Perspective: Prospective Patient Percentage with 4DCT Acquisition Artifacts Primary statistical analysis is intra-subject comparison of artifacts versus acquisition methods. In cohort 1: 4DCT acquisition techniques consist of 1) baseline acquisition, 2) extended acquisition, 3) real-time acquisition gating, and 4) re-imaging of bad segments. An automated computer scoring system, as described by Han et al., will be implemented and validated using the first 5 cases. To quantify 4DCT image quality, number and anatomic misplacement distance of artifacts will be measured, for each set of acquisition methods and each subject.

The numbers alone are enough to make your eyes water. - Over four billion Web pages, each an average of 10KB, all fully indexed - Up to 2,000 PCs in a cluster - Over 30 clusters - 104 interface languages including Klingon and Tagalog - One petabyte of data in a cluster -- so much that hard disk error rates of 10-15 begin to be a real issue - Sustained transfer rates of 2Gbps in a cluster - An expectation that two machines will fail every day in each of the larger clusters - No complete system failure since February 2000 It is one of the largest computing projects on the planet, arguably employing more computers than any other single, fully managed system (we're not counting distributed computing projects here), some 200 computer science PhDs, and 600 other computer scientists. And it is all hidden behind a deceptively simple, white, Web page that contains a single one-line text box and a button that says Google Search. When Arthur C. Clarke said that any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic, he was alluding to the trick of hiding the complexity of the job from the audience, or the user. Nobody hides the complexity of the job better than Google does; so long as we have a connection to the Internet, the Google search page is there day and night, every day of the year, and it is not just there, but it returns results. Google recognises that the returns are not always perfect, and there are still issues there -- more on those later -- but when you understand the complexity of the system behind that Web page you may be able to forgive the imperfections. You may even agree that what Google achieves is nothing short of sorcery. On Thursday evening, Google's vice-president of engineering, Urs Hölzle, who has been with the company since 1999 and who is now a Google fellow, gave an insight to would-be Google employees into just what it takes to run an operation on such a scale, with such reliability. ZDNet UK snuck in the back to glean some of the secrets of Google's magic. Google's vision is broader than most people imagine, said Hölzle: "Most people say Google is a search engine but our mission is to organise information to make it accessible." Behind that, he said, comes a vast scale of computing power based on cheap, no-name hardware that is prone to failure. There are hardware malfunctions not just once, but time and time again, many times a day. Yes, that's right, Google is built on imperfect hardware. The magic is writing software that accepts that hardware will fail, and expeditiously deals with that reality, says Hölzle. Google indexes over four billion Web pages, using an average of 10KB per page, which comes to about 40TB. Google is asked to search this data over 1,000 times every second of every day, and typically comes back with sub-second response rates. If anything goes wrong, said Hölzle, "you can't just switch the system off and switch it back on again." The job is not helped by the nature of the Web. "In academia," said Hölzle, "the information retrieval field has been around for years, but that is for books in libraries. On the Web, content is not nicely written -- there are many different grades of quality." Some, he noted, may not even have text. "You may think we don't need to know about those but that’s not true -- it may be the home page of a very large company where the Webmaster decided to have everything graphical. The company name may not even appear on the page." Google deals with such pages by regarding the Web not as a collection of text documents, but a collection of linked text documents, with each link containing valuable information. "Take a link pointing to the Stanford university home page," said Hölzle. "This tells us several things: First, that someone must think pointing to Stanford is important. The text in the link also gives us some idea of what is on the page being pointed to. And if we know something about the page that contains the link we can tell something about the quality of the page being linked to." This knowledge is encapsulated in Google's famous PageRank algorithm, which looks not just at the number of links to a page but at the quality or weight of those links, to help determine which page is most likely to be of use, and so which is presented at the top of the list when the search results are returned to the user. Hölzle believes the PageRank algorithm is 'relatively' spam resistant, and those interested in exactly how it works can find more information here.The process Obviously it would be impractical to run the algorithm once every page for every query, so Google splits the problem down. When a query comes in to the system it is sent off to index servers, which contain an index of the Web. This index is a mapping of each word to each page that contains that word. For instance, the word 'Imperial' will point to a list of documents containing that word, and similarly for 'College'. For a search on 'Imperial College' Google does a Boolean 'AND' operation on the two words to get a list of what Hölzle calls 'word pages'. "We also consider additional data, such as where in the page does the word occur: in the title, the footnote, is it in bold or not, and so on. Each index server indexes only part of the Web, as the whole Web will not fit on a single machine - certainly not the type of machines that Google uses. Google's index of the Web is distributed across many machines, and the query gets sent to many of them - Google calls each on a shard (of the Web). Each one works on its part of the problem. Google computes the top 1000 or so results, and those come back as document IDs rather than text. The next step is to use document servers, which contain a copy of the Web as crawled by Google's spiders. Again the Web is essentially chopped up so that each machine contains one part of the Web. When a match is found, it is sent to the ad server which matches the ads and produces the familiar results page. Google's business model works because all this is done on cheap hardware, which allows it to run the service free-of-charge to users, and charge only for advertising.The hardware "Even though it is a big problem", said Hölzle, "it is tractable, and not just technically but economically too. You can use very cheap hardware, but to do this you have to have the right software." Google runs its systems on cheap, no-name IU and 2U servers -- so cheap that Google refers to them as PCs. After all each one has a standard x86 PC processor, standard IDE hard disk, and standard PC reliability - which means it is expected to fail once in three years. On a PC at home, that is acceptable for many people (if only because they're used to it), but on the scale that Google works at it becomes a real issue; in a cluster of 1,000 PCs you would expect, on average, one to fail every day. "On our scale you cannot deal with this failure by hand," said Hölzle. "We wrote our software to assume that the components will fail and we can just work around it. This software is what makes it work. One key idea is replication. "This server that contains this shard of the Web, let's have two, or 10," said Hölzle. "This sound sounds expensive, but if you have a high-volume service you need that replication anyway. So you have replication and redundancy for free. If one fails you have 10 percent reduction in service so no failures so long as the load balancer works. So failure becomes and a manageable event." In reality, he said, Google probably has "50 copies of every server". Google replicates servers, sets of servers and entire data centres, added Hölzle, and has not had a complete system failure since February 2000. Back then it had a single data centre, and the main switch failed, shutting the search engine down for an hour. Today the company mirrors everything across multiple independent data centres, and the fault tolerance works across sites, "so if we lose a data centre we can continue elsewhere -- and it happens more often than you would think. Stuff happens and you have to deal with it." A new data centre can be up and running in under three days. "Our data centre now is like an iMac," said Schulz." You have two cables, power and data. All you need is a truck to bring the servers in and the whole burning in, operating system install and configuration is automated." Working around failure of cheap hardware, said Hölzle, is fairly simple. If a connection breaks it means that machine has crashed so no more queries are sent to it. If there is no response to a query then again that signals a problem, and it can cut it out of the loop. That is redundancy taken care of, but what about scaling? The Web grows every year, as do the number of people using it, and that means more strain on Google's servers. Google has two crucial factors in its favour. First, the whole problem is what Hölzle refers to as embarrassingly parallel, which means that if you double the amount of hardware, you can double performance (or capacity if you prefer -- the important point is that there are no diminishing returns as there would be with less parallel problems). The second factor in Google's favour is the falling cost of hardware. If the index size doubles, then the embarrassingly parallel nature of the problem means that Google could double the number of machines and get the same response time so it can grow linearly with traffic. "In reality (from a business point of view) we would like to grow less than linear to keep costs down," said Hölzle, "but luckily the hardware keeps getting cheaper." So every year as the Web gets bigger and requires more hardware to index, search and return Web pages, hardware gets cheaper so it "more or less evens out" to use Hölzle's words. As the scale of the operation increases, it introduces some particular problems that would not be an issue on smaller systems. For instance, Google uses IDE drives for all its storage. They are fast and cheap, but not highly reliable. To help deal with this, Google developed its own file system -- called the Google File System, or GFS -- which assumes an individual unit of storage can go away at any time either because of a crash, a lost disk or just because someone stepped on a cable. There are no disk arrays within individual PCs; instead Google stores every bit of data in triplicate on three machines on three racks on three data switches to make sure there is no single point of failure between you and the data. "We use this for hundreds of terabytes of data," said Hölzle. Don't expect to see GFS on a desktop near you any time soon - it is not a general-purpose file system. For instance, a GFS block size is 64MB, compared to the more usual 2KB on a desktop file system. Hölzle said Google has 30 plus clusters running GFS, some as large as 2,000 machines with petabytes of storage. These large clusters can sustain read/write speeds of 2Gbps - a feat made possible because each PC manages 2Mbps. Once, said Hölzle, "someone disconnected an 80-machine rack from a GFS cluster, and the computation slowed down as the system began to re-replicate and we lost some bandwidth, but it continued to work. This is really important if you have 2,000 machines in a cluster." If you have 2000 machines then you can expect to see two failures a day. Running thousands of cheap servers with relatively high failure rates is not an easy job. Standard tools don't work at this scale, so Google has had to develop them in-house. Some of the other challenges the company continues to face include: Debugging: "You see things on the real site you never saw in testing because some special set of circumstances that create a bug," said Hölzle. "This can create non-trivial but fun problems to work on." Data errors: A regular IDE hard disk will have an error rate in the order of 10-15 -- that is one millionth of one billionth of the data written to it may get corrupted and the hard-disk's own error checking will not pick it up. "But when you have a petabyte of data you need to start worrying about these failures," said Hölzle. "You must expect that you will have undetected bit errors on your disk several times a month, even with hardware checking built-in, so GFS does have an extra level of checksumming. Again this is something we didn’t expect, but things happen." Spelling: Google wrote its own spell checker, and maintains that nobody know as many spelling errors as it does. The amount of computing power available at the company means it can afford to begin teaching the system which words are related - for instance "Imperial", "College" and "London". It's a job that many CPU years, and which would not have been possible without these thousands of machines. "When you have tons of data and tons of computation you can make things work that don’t work on smaller systems," said Hölzle. One goal of the company now is to develop a better conceptual understanding of text, to get from the text string to a concept. Power density: "There is an interesting problem when you use PCs," said Hölzle. "If you go to a commercial data centre and look at what they can support, you'll see a typical design allowing for 50W to 100W per square foot. At 200W per square foot you notice the sales person still wants to sell it but their international tech guy starts sweating. At 300W per square foot they cry out in pain." Eighty mid-range PCs in a rack, of which you will find many dozens in a Google data centre, produce over 500W per square foot. "So we're not going to blade technology," said Hölzle. "We're already too dense. Finally Intel has realised this is a problem and is now focusing more on power efficiency, but it took some time to get the message across." Quality of search results: One big area of complaints for Google is connected to the growing prominence of commercial search results -- in particular price comparison engines and e-commerce sites. Hölzle is quick to defend Google's performance "on every metric", but admits there is a problem with the Web getting, as he puts it, "more commercial". Even three years ago, he said, the Web had much more of a grass roots feeling to it. "We have thought of having a button saying 'give me less commercial results'," but the company has shied away from implementing this yet.

But now thus says the Lord, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior. I give Egypt as your ransom, Ethiopia and Seba in exchange for you. Because you are precious in my sight, and honored, and I love you, I give people in return for you, nations in exchange for your life. Do not fear, for I am with you; I will bring your offspring from the east, and from the west I will gather you; I will say to the north, “Give them up,” and to the south, “Do not withhold; bring my sons from far away and my daughters from the end of the earth— everyone who is called by my name, whom I created for my glory, whom I formed and made.” “Don’t worry about it.” How many times have you heard those words, or something similar? The song, “Don’t worry, be happy” is certainly catchy, but not as “Hakuna Matata.” Maybe what you heard was a distinctive New York accent saying, “Fuggedaboudit!” Those four words — “Don’t worry about it” — are, in combination with each other, possibly the most useless words in the English language. You could say “no worries” and the words could mean very different things. Someone could say them honestly “no worries” and it means genuinely don’t worry about it or they could say “no worries” because they’re really mad that you made something they cared about seem trivial or you said something to hurt their feelings and when they saw it, they brushed it off. They’re useless not because banishing worry isn’t a good idea. Certainly, it is. Duh. “Don’t worry about it” is advice routinely ignored and impossible to obey. It’s a clichéd phrase that often doesn’t get at the weight or depth of the issue. Some psychologists — borrowing language from medical science — draw a distinction between acute anxiety and chronic anxiety. Acute anxiety, they say, is related to some immediate threat. Leonardo DiCaprio when he comes face to face with the grizzly bear in The Revenant has acute anxiety. You could say he’s experiencing acute anxiety and fear for most of the movie because he just reaches the double digits with his lines. Yet, if you wake up each morning with a sense of free-floating dread, but have little idea where those dark forebodings come from — nor any idea when or how you’ll break free from them — then chances are, you’re a victim of chronic anxiety. My mom calls this the worry cycle. When you wake up every morning going down the list of worries…your family…your classes…your job…that particular test…that girl or guy that you like…what am I going to this summer… The word “anxious” is historically related to a Latin word, angere, which literally means “to choke or strangle.” I figured it meant something along the lines of nervous, but I didn’t know it meant to choke or strangle. There’s another English word that traces its lineage to the same Latin root. The word is angina — the sharp, piercing pain that precedes a heart attack. Angina arises when one of the coronary arteries becomes choked off by arterial plaque, blocking oxygen from reaching the heart muscle. Anxiety, in other words, can kill you, if you let it fester. Another English word that grows out of this Latin root, angere, is “anger.” Anxious people, as it so happens, are often angry people. They sense the breath of life being choked off from their soul, and so they lash out, flailing wildly in an effort to remove the threat, whatever they imagine it to be. Anxious. Angina. Anger. It would be so easy to link this to Star Wars as leading to the Dark Side, but I won’t. In our 24 hour news cycle, we’ve gotten numb to the headlines. Would you say it is worse now, more violent now, more worrisome now? Although we may imagine ourselves the most anxiety-ridden people ever, gazing back longingly, a quick look at the Scriptures reveals this is hardly the case. Speaking God’s word to the community of Israelites in Babylonian captivity, our text reminds us: “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you. … For I am the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior” (vv. 2-3). The good news of the salvation oracle in Isaiah 43 is that God directly addresses this experience of exile. It can be hard for us to conceive just what Jewish people went through as they were uprooted from their homes, and transported to the Babylonian capital. Not everyone was compelled to relocate, of course — just the political, intellectual and economic elite, the ruling class. The Babylonian rulers seem to have followed the advice, “Keep your friends close and your enemies closer.” Settling the cream of Judah’s leadership in comfortable quarters, in a neighborhood of the city all their own, the Babylonian overlords made certain there were none from the defeated nation’s leadership who could raise a rebellion back home. The entire identity of the Jewish people, by contrast, was rooted in their theological understanding of the land. They were proud to be the chosen people Moses had led out of Egypt to claim the land of milk and honey for their own. The land was the principal sign of the Lord’s favor, the continual reminder that they lived in a state of divine grace. The temple mount in Jerusalem was the spiritual center of their universe. Remember God’s broader plan of salvation is for ALL people, unlike what those Turlington preachers say, but God focused attention on the shocking particularity of God’s love for this one people, Israel, for whom God would pay any price. When all this was suddenly snatched away from them, not only for their immediate physical circumstances, but, also, whether they could maintain an identity as the Lord’s chosen people without that tangible reality of the Promised Land. They also wondered how they could worship God apart from the cherished temple rites. Their cry of despair is echoed in Psalm 137:4: “How could we sing the LORD’S song in a foreign land?” Isaiah assures them. He gives the people a word from the Lord. “I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine.” Who but the Lord could accomplish such a wonder, redeeming the exiles from their hopeless situation? How could such a miraculous release from their captivity happen, unless the Lord willed it? This prophetic passage pictures the exiles’ journey home, passing even through rushing rivers without hindrance or danger. The image of passing safely through the waters may recall Song of Songs 8:7: “Many waters cannot quench love, neither can floods drown it.” What miraculous power is it that brings the exiles home, across the mighty Euphrates, but divine love? How is it that God can bring us out of the muck and mire of our own lives and set our feet on solid ground? God is with us. We are not the first generation of human beings to feel inundated by worry. True, we often use our mass-communications technology to construct an echo chamber to amplify our natural anxieties, but the fundamental psychological fact of worry is no different. By nature, we are a worrying people. At times, worry keeps us appropriately vigilant so we may fend off tangible threats. Yet, more often than not, it’s simply a burden. Yet the Bible in today’s text reminds us that we need not fear. We can live without anxiety because: – God created us – In John Wesley’s notes he wrote about this particular passage. “I have not only created them out of nothing, but I have also formed and made them my peculiar people.” God formed us. When you build or create something, you know it inside and out. God, as our Creator, knows us better than we know ourselves. Moreover, the text says, God redeemed us, God calls us by name and God says “you are mine.” So worry is a lack of trust. If we truly believe that God says, “You are mine,” then how can we be anxious about the things that cross our paths? This does not mean that there will not be waters to pass through, or fires to put out, but God promises to be our faithful shield and strength. Such anxiety does not honor the God who created us, calls us by name and not only says “You are mine,” but “you are precious in my sight” (v. 4). The Bible says that we should “Cast all your anxiety on God, because God cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7). Here, the writer echoes the comforting voice of Isaiah the prophet. Two Days We Should Not Worry There are two days in every week about which we should not worry; two days which should be kept free from fear and apprehension. One of these days is Yesterday with all its mistakes and cares, its faults and blunders, its aches and pains. Yesterday has passed forever beyond our control. All the money in the world cannot bring back Yesterday. We cannot undo a single act we performed; we cannot erase a single word we said. Yesterday is gone forever. The other day we should not worry about is Tomorrow. With all its possible adversities, its burdens, its large promise and its poor performance, Tomorrow is also beyond our immediate control. Tomorrow’s sun will rise, either in splendor or behind a mask of clouds, but it will rise. Until it does, we have no stake in Tomorrow, for it is yet to be born. This leaves only one day, Today. Any person can fight the battle of just one day. It is when you and I add the burdens of those two awful eternities Yesterday and Tomorrow that we break down. It is not the experience of Today that drives a person mad. It is the remorse or bitterness of something which happened Yesterday and the dread of what Tomorrow may bring that renders a person wild with anxiety. Let us, therefore, live but one day at a time. Matthew 6:25-34 says it this way, “25 ‘Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? 26Look at the birds of the air; they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? 27And can any of you by worrying add a single hour to your span of life?* 28And why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they neither toil nor spin, 29yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not clothed like one of these. 30But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? 31Therefore do not worry, saying, “What will we eat?” or “What will we drink?” or “What will we wear?” 32For it is the Gentiles who strive for all these things; and indeed your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. 33But strive first for the kingdom of God and his* righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 ‘So do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring worries of its own. Today’s trouble is enough for today.”

What is LinuxBIOS? Why do we need LinuxBIOS? Who is working on LinuxBIOS? Who is funding LinuxBIOS? Will LinuxBIOS work on my machine? What commercial products use LinuxBIOS? How can I help with LinuxBIOS? What is LinuxBIOS? LinuxBIOS aims to replace the normal BIOS found on PCs, Alphas, and other machines with a Linux kernel that can boot Linux from a cold start. LinuxBIOS is primarily Linux - about 10 lines of patches to the current Linux kernel. Additionally, the startup code - about 500 lines of assembly and 5000 lines of C - executes 16 instructions to get into 32-bit mode and then performs DRAM and other hardware initialization required before Linux can take over. Our primary motivation for the project was maintenance of large clusters, but not surprisingly interest and contributions have come from people with varying backgrounds. Why do we need LinuxBIOS? Current PCs used as cluster nodes depend on a vendor-supplied BIOS for booting. The BIOS in turn relies on inherently unreliable devices such as floppy disks and hard drives to boot the operating system. In addition, current BIOS software is unable to accommodate non-standard hardware making it difficult to support experimental work. The BIOS is slow and often erroneous and redundant and, most importantly, maintenance is a nightmare. Imagine walking around with a keyboard and monitor to every one of the 128 nodes in a cluster to change one BIOS setting. The LinuxBIOS gunzip's the Linux kernel straight out of NVRAM and essentially requires no moving parts other than the fan. It does a minimal amount of hardware initialization before jumping to the kernel start and lets Linux do the rest. As a result, it is much faster (current record 3 seconds), which has sparked interest in the consumer electronics community as well. Moreover, updates can be performed over the network. Using a real operating system to boot another operating system provides much greater flexibility than using a simple netboot program or the BIOS. Because Linux is the boot mechanism, it can boot over standard Ethernet or over other interconnects such as Myrinet, Quadrics, or SCI. It can use SSH connections to load the kernel, or it can use the InterMezzo caching file system or traditional NFS. Cluster nodes can be as simple as they need to be - perhaps as simple as a CPU and memory, no disk, no floppy, and no file system. The nodes will be much less autonomous thus making them easier to maintain. Who is working on LinuxBIOS? The LinuxBIOS project was started in the winter of 1999 in the Advanced Computing Laboratory at Los Alamos National Laboratory by Ron Minnich. Two undergraduate students, James Hendricks and Dale Webster spent their winter vacation putting together the proof of concept implementation. Since then, a long list of people have contributed both in discussions and actual code. See our contributors page for details. Please don't be shy and let us know if you are missing from the list. It's not a purposeful omission, just an unfortunate mistake. Who is funding LinuxBIOS? The LinuxBIOS project is funded by the Los Alamos Computer Science Institute and the Department of Energy's Office of Science. Will LinuxBIOS work on my machine? See the status page for which mainboards are supported. Also, see the products page for a list of vendors selling products running LinuxBIOS. What commercial products use LinuxBIOS? See the products page. How can I help with LinuxBIOS? Contact Ron Minnich for projects related to LinuxBIOS. Where is the mailing list archived? The best archive out there is at the University of Maryland. In addition, we've pieced together an archive that dates back to about the beginning of 2000 (including messages that were going to the freebios and openbios mailing lists). Where do I get the code? How do I build? See the documentation. For help generating a config file, see Generate a config file. Why is the code so complicated and what can I do to make it easier? The reason is the complexity of the problem. We support a lot of hardware, and a given chip on a given board will most likely not be configured quite the same as the same chip on some other board. To help make code navigation easier, pick a target and build that target. Then, in the build directory, type make tags or make etags to get your favorite tags file. What chipsets are supported? See status for the most up-to-date info.. A POST card will save your life. The term POST means Power On Self Test and comes from the original IBM specifications for the BIOS. Port 80 is a pre-defined port to which programs can output a byte. The POST card displays the byte in hex on its 2 digit display. We use a lot of POST codes in LinuxBIOS, so if you can tell us the POST code you see, we will have some idea of what happened. If your LinuxBIOS machine is working properly, you will see it count up from 0xd0 to 0xd9 (while it is gunzipping the kernel) and then display 0x98 (Linux idle loop). How do I contribute my changes? Any one without commit privileges (which is most of you) need to get changes approved by Ron Minnich. How do I re-flash the BIOS? Download the appropriate flash update utility. Build the romimage as explained above and use the flash update utility to update the BIOS. Be warned that not all update utilities allow you to load your own BIOS image. For example, Intel decided to disallow it for the MS440GX mainboard (probably after hearing about us!) Here are some mainboard specific directions. SiS 630/950 M/Bs Ollie Lho provided us with flash utilities for these boards under freebios/util/sis. flash_on turns on the flash write enable. This needs to be run before loading the DoC drivers. flash_rom allows you to use your SiS 630/950 M/Bs as a flash programmer. It currently supports JEDEC flash parts, AMD am29f040b models, MXIC MX29F002 models, and SST28SF040C models. Intel L440GX Get the System Update Package directly from Intel. mcopy the ten files created from running make phlash onto the Intel flash burner disk and use the update utility to burn the BIOS. To restore the original BIOS, set the recovery boot jumper on the motherboard, put the floppy in, and it will load and reflash the original BIOS. How do I actually burn a flash ROM? Buy your favorite flash burner (we use a Needham Electronics EMP 30). Use make floppy to create the romimage and copy it to a floppy. Then use the provided software to burn the flash. How do I burn a DoC? Currently, only the DoC Millennium is supported. See the documentation. Can I do any serious damage mucking around with this stuff? Any time you stick your hand into an open machine while the power is on, you're risking life and limb. That said, there are also some other not-so-nice things that can happen if you mess up (not that we would know). Incorrect inserstion of the flash (1 casualty) Incorrect jumper settings (1 casualty) Aggressive and/or inappropriate use of metal objects such as screwdrivers (2 casualties) Miscellaneous miswirings and mishandlings (3+ casualties) And finally a note on electrostatic discharge (ESD) and ESD protection thanks to Bari Ari. ESD can damage disk drives, boards, DoC's and other parts. The majority of the time, ESD events cause the component to degrade, but not fail testing procedures, resulting in failure at a later date. Because components do not fail immediately, technicians often underestimate the cost of not using ESD prevention measures. Provide at minimum some ESD protection by wearing an antistatic wrist strap attached to the chassis ground on your system when handling parts. Always handle boards carefully. They can be extremely sensitive to ESD. Hold boards only by their edges. After removing a board from its protective wrapper or from the system, place it component side up on a grounded, static free surface. Use a conductive foam pad if available. Do not slide the board over any surface. To further reduce the chances of ESD, you should create an ESD safe workstation that includes at minimum: Conductive rubber mat, with a lead wire that can be connected to a metal surface to create a ground. ESD wrist strap, which has a resistor inside the strap and a lead wire that can be connected to a metal surface as a ground. The grounding wire on the wrist strap should have between 1 and 10 Megaohms of resistance. The resistor should protect you in case you come in contact with a voltage source. If the resistor is bad or not included, the wrist strap is useless. An accidental shock could be serious and even deadly! Table or workspace that is clean, clear of dust, and away from electrical machinery or other equipment that generates electrical currents. The idea is to ensure that all components you are going to interact with have the same charge. By connecting everything to the computer case, you ensure that the components of the case, the chair, and your body all have the same charge. If every object has the same charge, the electrons will not jump from one object to another minimizing the risk of ESD damage. How do I put a filesystem on DoC? OK, here is a little HOWTO on how to set up MTD with a file system. Forget the drivers and such, you don't need them. What you need is the tools. cd mtd/tools make Go ahead and copy the executables somewhere handy, you'll need them. Now we need to make the last 6M into a "disk". We need to format it. The tool is nftl_format, so: [root@carly util]# ./nftl_format $Id: nftl_format.c,v 1.17 2001/08/29 14:28:48 dwmw2 Exp $ Usage: ./nftl_format [ ] [root@carly util]# expr 2048 \* 1024 2097152 [root@carly util]# expr 6 \* 1024 \* 1024 6291456 [root@carly util]# ./nftl_format /dev/mtd0 2097152 6291456 $Id: nftl_format.c,v 1.17 2001/08/29 14:28:48 dwmw2 Exp $ Phase 1. Checking and erasing Erase Zones from 0x00200000 to 0x00800000 Phase 2.a Writing NFTL Media Header and Bad Unit Table Phase 2.b Writing Spare NFTL Media Header and Spare Bad Unit Table Phase 3. Writing Unit Control Information to each Erase Unit we now have a formatted disk in there. We can now partition it. [root@carly util]# modprobe nftl dmesg shows LOTS of errors, since this was never partitioned ... Also, if you don't have /dev/nftla, [root@carly util]# mknod /dev/nftla b 93 0 Don't use the script just yet, it makes /dev/nftla as b 93 16, which is the wrong unit #. now fdisk /dev/nftla [root@carly util]# fdisk /dev/nftlA Command (m for help): n Command action e extended p primary partition (1-4) p Partition number (1-4): 1 First cylinder (1-1, default 1): Using default value 1 Command (m for help): p Disk /dev/nftlA: 1 heads, 12224 sectors, 1 cylinders Units = cylinders of 12224 * 512 bytes Device Boot Start End Blocks Id System /dev/nftlA1 1 1 6111+ 83 Linux Partition 1 has different physical/logical endings: phys=(768, 0, 0) logical=(0, 0, 12224) Partition 1 does not end on cylinder boundary: phys=(768, 0, 0) should be (768, 0, 12224) Command (m for help): w The partition table has been altered! Calling ioctl() to re-read partition table. WARNING: If you have created or modified any DOS 6.x partitions, please see the fdisk manual page for additional information. Syncing disks. [root@carly util]# mknod /dev/nftlA1 b 93 1 [root@carly util]# mke2fs /dev/nftlA1 mke2fs 1.23, 15-Aug-2001 for EXT2 FS 0.5b, 95/08/09 Filesystem label= OS type: Linux Block size=1024 (log=0) Fragment size=1024 (log=0) 1528 inodes, 6111 blocks 305 blocks (4.99%) reserved for the super user First data block=1 1 block group 8192 blocks per group, 8192 fragments per group 1528 inodes per group Writing inode tables: done Writing superblocks and filesystem accounting information: done This filesystem will be automatically checked every 37 mounts or 180 days, whichever comes first. Use tune2fs -c or -i to override. [root@carly util]# cd /mnt [root@carly mnt]# df . Filesystem 1k-blocks Used Available Use% Mounted on /dev/nftlA1 5915 13 5597 1% /mnt [root@carly mnt]# and so you now have an ext2 file system on the DoC. Date: Mon, 25 Mar 2002 22:07:54 +0800 From: Andrew Ip To: Kei Furuuchi Cc: firstname.lastname@example.org Subject: Re: How to turn off unused pci device. Hi, > I have pcchips m758lmr which has audio chip besides sis630. > those functions in sis630 are not used in the motherboard. > But, the functions keep coming up. How do I turn off those? The following is from Nikolai Valdych previous message. Hope this help. -Andrew -- Andrew Ip Email: email@example.com Actualy, it was pretty simple 0x7c00 - All devices enabled, You play with first 4 bits only. Cos there are 4 devices, so you have any combination of 4 bits. Set bit to 1 to turn off the device, bit 0 to enable it. This is the device list: Multimedia Audio controler Modem controler Ethernet sis930 controler USB controler. For example, to turn off Ethernet + USB it would be: 0x7c0c -> 1100 in binary (first 4 bits) To turn off Multimedia audio : 0x7c01 -> 0001 in binary and so on... maybe there are more detail, but this is enogh for me, Ollie, again thanks! nikolai p.s. though my modem is not yet working..... damn driver...... What is a PIRQ table? From Adam Sulmicki: I found beautfiul descrition of the BIOS implementation of the PIRQ in the red PCI book. I found the description of the $PIR data structure in the looking over linuxbios sources I see that it saves the $PIR data structure somewhere between 0xf0000 & 0x100000. so it seems I'll have to search for $PIR and then save it before copying over our bios. sigh. hoped for some fixed address in mem. -- Adam The Supreme Headquarters of the 32 bit registers How do I set up etherboot with LinuxBIOS? Note from Ron: I have edited this somewhat to remove Geode-specific items. Christer Weinigel writes: To: firstname.lastname@example.org Cc: email@example.com Subject: Re: LinuxBIOS + Etherboot HOWTO? I had some trouble using LinuxBIOS + etherboot... My bad, I messed up and used mkelfImage-1.6 that I got from ftp.lnxi.com, when I realized that I ought to use the one from freebios/util everything started working. Here's what I did to get LinuxBIOS + Etherboot loading and booting a Linux kernel using TFTP. Get etherboot-5.0 from the CVS tree on etherboot.sourceforge.net. Modify etherboot-5.0/src/Config, comment out: # BIOS select don't change unless you know what you are doing #CFLAGS32+= -DPCBIOS and uncomment the following: # Options to make a version of Etherboot that will work under linuxBIOS. CFLAGS32+= -DLINUXBIOS -DCONFIG_TSC_CURRTICKS -DCONSOLE_SERIAL \ -DCOMCONSOLE=0x3f8 -DCOMPRESERVE -DCONFIG_PCI_DIRECT -DELF_IMAGE Compile Etherboot to make an elf file for your ethernet card: Compile and install mkelfImage from freebios/util/mkelfImage. Create a bootimage to put on your TFTP server: mkelfImage --command-line="root=/dev/hda2 console=ttyS0,38400" \ --kernel vmlinux -o /tftpboot/kernel Finally, make sure that your BOOT/DCHP server is answering and that the TFTP server is active. Tell LinuxBIOS to boot an elf Image, and tell LinuxBIOS where it is: I have placed natsemi.elf in the first 64k of my BIOS flash chip, and LinuxBIOS in the second 64k. insmod bios.o dd if=natsemi.elf of=/dev/bios bs=64k dd if=linuxbios.rom of=/dev/bios bs=64k seek=1 Finally boot LinuxBIOS. > I've got an Eval card from National Semi that contains > the SC1200. I'd like to try LinuxBios on it. > I've downloaded both the 2.4.18 and 2.4.19 kernels to start with. > What patches do I need to apply to the kernel? > Is there a config file I can use to configure the kernel, or > should I do it manually? A normal 2.4 Linux kernel will work fine as long as you compile for a 586 CPU (CONFIG_M586), not Pentium or higher (CONFIG_M586TSC and up) since the TSC behaves a bit differently. If you want support for the watchdog or the GPIO pins in a 2.4 kernel, you can find an old patch from me at: An updated version of this patch has been included in Linux 2.5. Alan Cox' 2.5 kernel also has support for doing DMA on the SC1200 IDE controller; I don't know if there is a corresponding patch for 2.4. Other than that, take a look at the freebios/src/mainboard/nano/nano directory and make a copy of it. All you should have to do is to modify the Pin Multiplexing Register (PMR) and Miscellaneous Config Register (MCR) in the Config file and to modify the irq assignments. Depending on what you want to do, there are a few limitations with the current LinuxBIOS on the SC1200: There is no video support in LinuxBIOS itself, so you won't get any video until you have loaded the NatSemi Geode Linux framebuffer driver (can be found at www.linux4.tv under the heading SP1SC10 Platform Image). There is no SMM/VSA support at all, this means that anything relying on it won't work. What this means is that Audio won't work. Other than that everything works fine, IDE in PIO mode, the PCI bus, watchdog, GPIOs, everything.

Nigeria’s foremost novelist Chinua Achebe has claimed that Nigerians, especially of the Hausa/Fulani and the Yoruba stocks, do not like his Igbo ethnic group because of the southeast’s cultural advantage. He made this claim in his new book, There was a Country, which has generated controversy for his onslaught on the role of Obafemi Awolowo as the federal commissioner of finance during the Nigeria civil war. He accused Awolowo of genocide and imposition of food blockade on Biafra, a claim that has drawn rebuttals and contradictions of emotional intensity from some southwest leaders and commentators. “I have written in my small book entitled The Trouble with Nigeria that Nigerians will probably achieve consensus on no other matter than their common resentment of the Igbo,” he wrote under the heading, A History of Ethnic Tension and Resentment. He traced the origin of “the national resentment of the Igbo” to its culture that “gave the Igbo man an unquestioned advantage over his compatriots in securing credentials for advancement in Nigerian colonial society.” He observed that the Igbo culture’s emphasis on change, individualism and competitiveness gave his ethnic group an edge over the Hausa/Fulani man who was hindered by a “wary religion” and the Yoruba man who was hampered by” traditional hierarchies.” He therefore described the Igbo, who are predominantly Catholic, as “fearing no god or man, was “custom-made to grasp the opportunities, such as they were, of the white man’s dispensations. And the Igbo did so with both hands.” He delved into history with his claim, asserting that the Igbo overcame the earlier Yoruba advantage within two decades earlier in the twentieth century. “Although the Yoruba had a huge historical and geographical head start, the Igbo wiped out their handicap in one fantastic burst of energy in the twenty years between 1930 and 1950.” He narrated the earlier advantage of Yoruba as contingent on their location on the coastline, but once the missionaries crossed the Niger, the Igbo took advantage of the opportunity and overtook the Yoruba. “The increase was so exponential in such a short time that within three short decades the Igbos had closed the gap and quickly moved ahead as the group with the highest literacy rate, the highest standard of living, and the greatest of citizens with postsecondary education in Nigeria,” he contended. He said Nigerian leadership should have taken advantage of the gbo talent and this failure was partly responsible for the failure of the Nigerian state, explaining further that competitive individualism and the adventurous spirit of the Igbo was a boon Nigerian leaders failed to recognize and harness for modernization. “Nigeria’s pathetic attempt to crush these idiosyncrasies rather than celebrate them is one of the fundamental reasons the country has not developed as it should and has emerged as a laughingstock,” he claimed. He noted that the ousting of prominent Igbos from top offices was a ploy to achieve a simple and crude goal. He said what the Nigerians wanted was to “get the achievers out and replace them with less qualified individuals from the desired ethnic background so as to gain access to the resources of the state.” Achebe, however, saved some criticisms for his kinsmen. He criticised them for what he described as “hubris, overweening pride and thoughtlessness, which invite envy and hatred or even worse that can obsess the mind with material success and dispose it to all kinds of crude showiness.” He added that “contemporary Igbo behavior(that) cab offend by its noisy exhibitionism and disregard for humility and quietness.

EVA FACIAL MOUSE is an application developed and promoted by CREA with the support of Fundación Vodafone España. EVA FACIAL MOUSE is a free and open source application that allows the access to functions of a mobile device by means of tracking the user face captured through the frontal camera. Based on the movement of the face, the app allows the user to control a pointer on the screen (i.e., like a mouse),which provides direct access to most elements of the user interface. People with amputations, cerebral palsy, spinal cord injury, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or other disabilities may be beneficiaries of this app. Continue Reading » Driving with a disability can be a huge accomplishment, whether it is an amputation or something more severe. In Sam Schmidt’s case, it couldn’t get more severe. In 2001 Sam was paralyzed when his race car went backwards into the wall at 210 mph. Sam’s doctors were thinking he may not live the year but Sam defied the odds and currently lives life as a quadriplegic. Continue Reading » On any given day up to 25 individuals with varied disabilities are hard at work in the EP!C Hub computer lab in Peoria, earning a paycheck and cultivating independence thanks to assistive technology. The Hub has a variety of adaptive equipment, including specialized keyboards and screen-reading software. Hub workers with disabilities design and print flyers, posters and calendars; create business cards; and even make and sell their own greeting cards. “Technology definitely helps them to work and live a more rewarding fulfilling productive life. Because a lot of them have those abilities; they just need a little bit of assistance,” said Lauren Coyle, EP!C’s director of specialized programs. Continue Reading » Todd is the CEO of a technology consulting company and a prominent member of the quadriplegic community. With Siri, Switch Control, and the Home app, he can open his front door, adjust the lights in his house, and queue up a party playlist. Continue Reading » It took a week for them to discover Marshall Burningham was wearing contacts. The 30-year-old man has worn contacts or glasses most of his life. But after a November fall left him a quadriplegic, glasses were his only option as Marshall moved from Salt Lake City to Lake Shore to live with his parents, Kim and Cindy, as he navigates through his new world. “The idea of other people putting contacts on me freaked me out,” Marshall said. Continue Reading » For the past seven years, the Canadian technology developer Komodo Openlabs has been working on a device called Tecla that allow users with limited mobility to control electronic devices. Designed for users who have trouble operating smartphones, tablets, or computers because of limited upper-body mobility caused by spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis, ALS, muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, brain injuries or a stroke, the original Tecla product could only work with one device at a time. Continue Reading » An estimated 1,000,000 people in Canada and the United States have limited or no use of their arms—meaning they are unable to use touchscreen devices that could provide access to helpful apps and services. Continue Reading »

A View from David Zax Controlling a Computer with Your Eyes A new ultra-cheap way for the paralyzed to interact with computers. Researchers at Imperial College London have developed an affordable technology that could allow millions of people suffering from ailments like Parkinson’s, muscular dystrophy, or spinal cord injury to interact with computers–using just their eyes. The finding brings new hope to many patients that computing–and the many improvements to quality of life the computing brings–could soon be relatively simple and affordable for those who are paralyzed or otherwise disabled. It’s anyone’s nightmare–to suffer an injury or be diagnosed with a disease that could lead to “locked-in syndrome.” One feature of locked-in syndrome, though, is that occasionally mobility remains in one part of the body–the eyes. Famously, the French author of The Diving Bell and the Butterfly dictated his memoirs solely through eye-movements–one letter at a time, and with the help of an assistant. That won’t work for everyone, obviously–and nor would the expensive eye-tracking technology of years past. But the Imperial College eye-tracking technology was created with off-the-shelf materials, bringing the cost of the system down to just £40. “We have built a 3D eye tracking system hundreds of times cheaper than commercial systems and used it to build a real-time brain machine interface that allows patients to interact more smoothly and more quickly than existing invasive technologies that are tens of thousands of times more expensive,” Dr. Aldo Faisal, one of the researchers, said of the project. “This is frugal innovation; developing smarter software and piggy-backing existing hardware to create devices that can help people worldwide independent of their healthcare circumstances.” The researchers demonstrated how people could play the game of Pong using just eye movements. (The video has an oddly downbeat ending, don’t you think, for such a hopeful technology?) So how does it work? The device is made up of two video game console cameras, which are attached to a pair of glasses, just outside the line of vision. That data can be transmitted over Wi-Fi or USB into a Windows or Linux computer. The device also pairs up with a bit of software that help infer just where the eyes are looking. As the video indicates, the cameras are able to discern just where the pupil is pointing; from this, it can be inferred just where on the screen a user’s looking. In fact, it even allows you to infer more than that–using a set of “detailed calibrations,” researchers can even determine how far in 3-D space the user is looking. The researchers speculate novel uses for such technology: for instance, an eye-controlled wheelchair that can determine where you want to go, just by looking. The Imperial College team is not the only one to have tried its hands at this sort of technology, of course; among others, the University of Minnesota has been at this for some time. Back in January, Tobii Technology presented some “gaze interaction” tech that was actually aimed at consumers. Tobii mentioned some medical applications, but actually had in mind not patients but rather medical technicians who could use the tech to rapidly scan through photographs, scans, or X-rays, reported the LA Times. Here’s a case where consumer technology and medical technology are involving in tandem and influencing each other. Wherever it catches on first, it’s good news for everyone–and particularly for the millions of patients for whom this could open up new ways of interacting with the world.

Animal Control of Victoria County Pets play a vital role in our society. They give us companionship, affection, a sense of responsibility, and protection. Additionally, pets help improve our health by lowering blood pressure, reducing stress, and promoting exercise. As responsible pet owners, we can assure that dogs, cats, and other pets remain enjoyable members of our lives and the lives of those around us. Victoria County Public Health Department Animal Control Division promotes the prevention of zoonotic disease, public protection from roaming nuisance animals, and responsible pet ownership. We promote the prevention of zoonotic disease (disease that can be transmitted from animal to humans) by enforcing state laws and local ordinances that require vaccinating domestic animals from rabies. We promote public protection from roaming nuisance animals by enforcing city and county ordinances. We respond to most animal complaints in the City and County of Victoria. We promote responsible pet ownership by educating new adopters and the general public in how to care for their pet. We are always here to answer questions the public may have about the city and county ordinances, state laws regarding rabies, general pet ownership/care, and many other animal issues. Of course if you have any questions about whom we are and what we do, please call and ask since there are many misconceptions about Animal Control.

Just what is breast enhancement surgery in Waubun Minnesota? Breast augmentation surgical treatment involves utilizing breast implants or fat, described as fat transfer boob job, to enhance the dimension of your breasts or bring back bust quantity that has been shed after weight reduction or pregnancy. Boob job is scientifically referred to as enhancement mammaplasty. Boob job can: Increase volume and projection of your breasts Boost the balance of your number Improve your self-image and also self-esteem Breast augmentation could likewise be used for breast restoration after mastectomy or injury. What breast enhancement surgical procedure won’t do In Waubun MN Boob job does not correct drastically sagging breasts. If you want your breasts to look fuller and also to be lifted as a result of drooping, a breast lift may be called for together with boob job. Bust lifting can commonly be done at the same time as your augmentation or might call for a different operation. Your cosmetic surgeon will certainly aid you in making this choice. Breast augmentation cost Waubun Minnesota The typical cost of breast augmentation surgical procedure is $3,708, according to 2014 stats from the American Culture of Plastic Surgeons. The ordinary expense for removal of breast implants was $2,330 in 2014. If you are a boob job prospect, please keep in mind that prices could differ. The average fees referenced above do not consist of anesthetic, operating room centers or other related costs. A specialist’s fee for boob job surgical procedure may differ based on his/her experience, the type and cost of breast augmentation made use of, as well as geographic office location. Lots of plastic surgeons offer client funding prepare for breast augmentation surgical procedure, so make certain to ask. Breast augmentation cost might consist of: Hospital or surgical facility costs Prescriptions for medicine Your satisfication involves greater than a fee. When picking a board-certified plastic surgeon in your location for breast augmentation surgical procedure, remember that the specialist’s experience with breast augmentation and your comfort with him or her are equally as essential as the last price of the surgical treatment. Waubun Minnesota Boob job surgical procedure and health insurance protection The majority of health insurance strategies will not cover aesthetic breast enhancement prices, relevant complications or another surgery to modify the appearance of your busts. Some service providers even omit breast illness in people who have breast augmentation. You need to very carefully examine your health insurance plan. Breast augmentation candidates Breast enhancement is a very personal treatment and you ought to do it for yourself, not for another person. You could be a candidate for breast enhancement surgical procedure if: You are literally healthy You have realistic expectations Your busts are completely developed You are troubled by the feeling that your busts are as well small You are disappointed with your breasts losing shape and also volume after pregnancy, weight-loss, or with aging You are dissatisfied with the upper component of your breast showing up “empty”. Your busts are unbalanced. One or both breasts failed to create typically or have actually an extended shape. Many individuals find it practical to examine boob job pictures and also find out about exactly what to expect throughout recovery as they navigate the decision-making procedure to have surgical treatment. Breast augmentation recuperation Waubun Throughout your breast augmentation recuperation, you will be taken into a recovery location to be very closely monitored adhering to surgery. Your breasts will be wrapped in gauze dressings and a stretchable bandage or assistance bra will decrease swelling and also support the busts as they recover. You could be permitted to go house after a couple of hours. Before leaving, you will certainly be provided particular instructions that might consist of ways to care for your busts following surgical treatment, medications to use or take by mouth to aid healing as well as reduce the risk of infection, and when to follow-up with your plastic surgeon. You could be advised to use a support bra around the clock for the very first week or 2. It will be important to cleanse the cut sites and also use lotion as directed. Be sure to comply with all directions very carefully. After a post-surgical breast enhancement healing duration of 24 to 2 Days and also an additional reduced-activity duration of a couple of days, you will likely experience discomfort and also swelling for a couple of weeks.

Concerns When Buying A Home: Environmental Hazards Hidden environmental hazards can affect your health—and be costly to remediate. They can affect the value of a property if they are not discovered before you buy. These hazards include but are not limited to water quality issues, buried oil tanks on the property, and the presence of lead or mold in the home itself. The most common environmental hazard that confronts new home buyers is a buried oil tank on a property. It is important to know if one is there, and in what condition. If a buried oil tank has been removed by seller, most mortgage lenders require documentation that it was removed and disposed of legally and properly. It’s important that you arrange with the appropriate professionals the inspections you require to properly evaluate any home you are considering to purchase. A good buyer’s agent is the source of the references you need. Here, again, a knowledgeable local real estate professional representing your interest can be invaluable.

Each year Whitworth fields a five-student Ethics Bowl team that competes against other colleges and universities at the Northwest Regional Ethics Bowl, in Seattle. The top teams from the NREB qualify for the Intercollegiate Ethics Bowl, held each spring. The IEB is the national championship bowl and it is sponsored by the Association for Practical and Professional Ethics. Each spring Whitworth competes in the Independent Colleges of Washington’s Ethics Bowl in Seattle. Whitworth's interdisciplinary team comprises top students who have taken an ethics class and who are able to apply ethical theories in complex contexts. The team members have come from all class standings (freshman-senior) and from a wide range of majors, including chemistry, communication studies, English, philosophy, political science, psychology and theology. The team meets weekly for practice sessions and coaching by Whitworth faculty members. Individual students conduct research on assigned cases, and the team works together to develop skills in critical and analytical thinking, clear reasoning and public speaking. In advance of each competition, Whitworth's team receives a set of ethical issues that they have about seven weeks to research, identify key principles, and apply ethical theory. In 2017 the team researched and analyzed 39 cases across three bowls on a wide variety of topics. Some of the cases included whether the FBI could compel Apple to unlock cell phones, significantly tax beef to dissuade people from eating it for reasons concerning health and climate change, creating boundaries between freedom of expression and "political correctness," proposing regulations on using three dimensional printers to print handguns, requiring the United States Army to alter its requirements on solider uniforms to allow Sikhs to wear a beard while in service, the use of drones in the war on terror and whether there should be limits to business compensation packages for senior executives. At bowls, a moderator poses a question to each team that is drawn from the cases the team has researched. The team confers for one minute and then presents a coherent answer to the question, demonstrating skills in policy analysis and ethical understanding. A panel of judges, who are typically ethics professors and ethics officers and practitioners with large organizations, rates each team's answer on the following criteria: intelligibility, focus on ethically relevant considerations, avoidance of ethical irrelevance, and deliberative thoughtfulness. Thinking critically about the world is an essential part of engaging with it. Ethics Bowl helps you to do that.

From the Serbian Patriarchate website (here) [Loose translation]: His Grace Bishop Jovan (Purić) gave a lecture on Sunday September 5, 2010 on the topic of sensitivity – the basic property of Christians in the Orthodox spiritual center in Podgorica. The well attended lecture aroused the attention of all present, who, after Bishop Jovan’s presentation had something to think about, to reflect on, and to ask questions of their Archpastor. Among other things, Bishop Jovan stated: “The issue of sensitivity is a key contemporary issue from two connected but distinct aspects: the aspect of the Church, our relations, our theological and living testimony, but at the same time it is the basic question of modern man who does not know the Church and its treasures of salvation. In fact, these two perspectives are closely linked in regards to soteriology. That is, the Church is called to, through her teachings, but primarily to save mankind through Her being, and we can say that sensitivity towards the other, as fruit of our love for Him, is that guarantee of salvation which the Church should transmit to the world through her grace-filled pedagogy. It is problematic, we must point out, in both of these aspects. Whether we’re in the church or just prying in the narthex of Her ark of salvation, modern civilization presents before us the challenges which dull our moral and emotional capabilities. Television programs promote the culture of violence and brutality, and bearing in mind that it is precisely popular culture which imposes social and emotional patterns of behavior, violence, and rudeness present in our lives. Modern man is more like a child, in that delicate period when he learns and adopts the basic ethical principles and develops the thresholds of his emotional, “endurance” and sensitivity, subject to scenes of violence that make him insensitive to violence in everyday life. There is no need to mention specific unfortunate instances in which individuals, inspired by violence in films or video games, actually committed violent acts on their neighbors. Even when it is not so, the culture of violence, which underestimates emotional sensitivity proclaiming it undesirable, “weakling”, modern man is often so dulled down making him insusceptible to empathy with others. All it takes is to pass through any one of our urban settings to see how people are completely emotionally insensitive passing by the scene of violence, poverty, human misery and grief of all kinds. Is this life and are such people really “strong” or weak? When the social perspective is factored in we can see that social insensitivity is a desirable characteristic. “Competition,” the “competitive spirit”, “creative competition” are less feeble and ironic names for the principles that usually involve insensitivity to a colleague, the individualistic tendencies that do not know the compassion and perspective of the Other as Neighbor. Unfortunately, often we have witnessed that the spirit within the Church knows insensitivity to dominate and take its toll. Sensitivity is termed as one’s handicap, as a lack of responsible functions for which, supposedly, one should be strong and insensitive when making difficult decisions. The problem in the church receives special strength when we consider the theology of the Church which places man in the center of its interest and involvement, as the Image of God in Christ, and his whole being. More specifically, the Church and its experience, permeated into its theology as the basic concept of every meaningful discourse places the PERSON, as the fundamental dignity of man, as the possibility of its conformity to the Icon and Likeness. If man’s personhood is something which is the most sacred which exists in the world, something for which the Logos was made incarnate, was crucified and resurrected, then man cannot be insensitive to the Other as a person, inasmuch as we desire, in an authentic manner, to witness the truth of the Gospel. Therefore, it is precisely sensitivity, rather than insensitivity which has its biblical and patristic foundation. God is portrayed in the Old Testament as being “sensitive”: it hurts Him when Israel = the fore-Church forgets and rejoices when it returns to its God with repentance. God “shows feelings” which should not be understood as anthropomorphic, but we also mustn’t diminish the significance of the God inspired words of the writers of the Priestly Books of the Old Testament. Thus, for example, God, the Holy One of Israel, speaks directly to Israel “since you were precious in My sight, you came glorious, and I love you” (Isaiah 43.3), and it was particularly because of that love that the Lord was angered at Israel, though not angered for eternity ( Jeremiah. 3.12). The Lord, therefore, does not show insensitivity, but is in fact sensitive to the sufferings of mankind (as St. John Chrysostom often reminds us), and how else are we to understand the famous words of the beloved disciple that God so loved the world that He gave his only begotten Son for the salvation of the world (John 3:16), other that it being the culmination of divine compassion with mankind. The Holy Fathers especially emphasized the necessity of compassion (sympathy) and sensitivity in our spiritual lives. Often you hear that the Fathers taught about apathy (indifference), which, of course, implies insensitivity but this is a misunderstanding of the patristic thought for the Fathers implied having an insensitivity to passion and sin, and not insensitivity towards other people. On the contrary, it would take much time and require a more comprehensive writing if we wished to name only the father’s thoughts regarding the need to see Christ in our neighbor and to have compassion on them. The Fathers also emphasize that the feelings of lethargy, the inability of man to be sympathetic to his neighbor, as one of the first signs of the death of the soul, of which in recent times the Venerable Simeon of Dajbabe wrote of (see his beautiful song “The diseased soul and the healthy mind”). Of course, none of this should be taken as being a sort of Christian sentimentalism. A Christian is not someone, according to patristic thought, who should allow their emotions to rule them, but he should bring his emotions in harmony – mind, body, spirit and his entire being. Sentimentalism does none of this but gives preference to feelings, reducing the entire sense of the human being – while the Christian approach is completely different as it is of an ontological character, it stems from our being which is ontologically sent to other people, to the Image of the Holy Trinity. Because, as the Fathers say, – “You have seen your brother, you have seen Christ.” A true shepherd must never cast these words from their mind. This is that gift of which the elder Sophronius wrote to Fr. Boris Stark of: “At my age I still continue not only to serve the liturgy, but also to receive many people, and experiencing with them their suffering, their problems, to share with them the long experience – according to man’s language – of life. A sense of deep responsibility in any case, with every man, especially with children and young people, requires a gradual tension of attention, compassion, patience and so on.” A true pastor, bishop, clergyman, lay person, a religious teacher, and minister and officer and engineer, are all invited to feel and be compassionate, if they truly wish to church(ify) and Christ(ify) their service. For this reason we are all faced with a great – but worthy of every pain – goal, to transfigure this world from insensibility to a Christ-like compassion, that we might bring it to its designation – the kingdom of God. “

- Decreases pain and inflammation - Accelerates healing of soft tissues - Accelerates healing of disc and nerve root - Decreases thickening of hypertrophic - Reduces change of having back surgery - Pain in the buttocks and down the thigh and leg (below the level of the knee) - Most often due to disc herniation and degenerative arthritis - Results in numbness, pain, and muscular weakness - Laser therapy is the safest, most effective treatment for nerve pathology - Arthritis is a form of joint disorder that involves the inflammation of one or more joints. - There are over 100 types of arthritis - Laser therapy has been clinically shown to decrease inflammation in the joints, increase blood flow to the areas of arthritis leading to an overall decrease in pain and inflammation Restless Leg Syndrome - Neurological disorder characterized by irresistible urge to move the legs and/or arms due to uncomfortable sensations. - Intensified during rest and relaxation, worse in the evenings - Relieved by activity and movement - Associated conditions include peripheral neuropathy - Laser therapy has been shown to be effective in safely helping to control neurological symptoms and urges to move extremities without dangerous side effects. Post Operative Pain - Strong antimicrobial effect means less infection post operative. - Decreased scar tissue formation - Less pain/ less activity intolerance - Increased collagen and fibroblast growth means stronger tensile strength. - Decreased post operative rehabilitation by 30% - 50% - Nerve pathology secondary to impaired circulation (Diabetes, chemotherapy, medications, degenerative vascular diseases). - Symptoms include; pain, burning, numbness, tingling, loss of balance. - Only several medications available to treat the symptoms, nothing available to address the root cause. - Laser therapy increases blood flow (vasodilation and neo-capillary growth) decreases pain and inflammation, as well as accelerates the healing of the peripheral nerve endings. - Damage to outer layers of disc (annular fibers) resulting in the migration of gelatinous material (Necleus Pulpous) to the periphery which can result in neurological symptoms. - Traditional treatment aim to decrease inflammation (epidural injections) and surgical removal of damaged disc material. - Laser therapy is the only treatment which safely helps to control inflammation as well as actually heal the outer fibers of the damaged disc! - Laser therapy can actually increase the tensile strength of the outer fibers of the disc making it stronger, more resilient. And many more...

There are many artisans out there that do some really cool things to help out other people. Right now in the UK, Jolene of Kitzbitz Art Glass is holding a Beadathon. All the beads made and funds raised will be donated to the Beads of Courage Programme. for children and teens with cancer. This is a brief explanation about the program from the Beads of Courage page: "The Beads of Courage Programme is a new concept being introduced in the UK which is designed to support children going through their treatment. It allows them to tell their story using colourful beads. The beads are used as meaningful symbols of courage that commemorate different milestones such as blood transfusions, bone marrow transplants, hospital stays, chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatments. Their beads build up over time into a unique record of what they have been through. Some days are really tough for these kids. However, the beads are used for encouragement and say to everyone “that was tough….but….I did it” " Because they need lots of program beads, they are are commercially manufactured, with different beads representing different treatments. The kids are given Beads of Courage, that are artisan made to "acknowledge the milestones in their treatment journey". They expect to need about 100,000 of these beads this year. I celebrate these artisans for their contribution to this awesome program.

New Zealanders involved in brokering the international movement of weapons will have to register and obtain a permit, under a planned law change. There are currently no controls on arms brokering - the negotiation, arrangement or facilitation of a transaction involving the international movement of arms or military equipment. Groups including Oxfam and Amnesty International have long campaigned for that to change, linking such trade to armed violence and human rights violations. New Zealand in 2014 ratified the Arms Trade Treaty, which Foreign Minister Murray McCully hailed as a "major step" in global efforts to reduce the illicit arms trade. All countries signed-up are required to have laws to control the international flow of weapons including guns, rockets and grenades and heavier weaponry. The Government is currently drafting a "Brokering Bill", about which the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Mfat) recently briefed a firearms community advisory forum set-up by Police. The proposed new law will require individuals and entities to register and obtain a permit for brokering activities, and permits would be declined where there is a risk that the arms could move to "illegitimate users" or destinations. Brokering without a permit will be an offence, and the regime would not only apply to people in New Zealand, but also New Zealanders and New Zealand entities abroad. The change will not cover firearm imports and exports to and from New Zealand, or the domestic sale of guns - brokering is the movement of arms from one foreign country to another. While a forum member was concerned the law change could increase import costs, Mfat advised it "should have no practical impact on New Zealand". A spokesman told the Herald its understanding was brokering by New Zealanders and entities was not significant. Rachael Le Mesurier, executive director of Oxfam New Zealand, said the Arms Trade Treaty had brought the end of arms brokering "a good bit closer". "But the Treaty itself could be stronger. That's why a Brokering Bill, which could close some of the gaps, is so important. "For this legislation to be a real success, it should absolutely include clear definitions of brokering, which the Treaty is a bit weak on, and have clear provisions for offenses and appropriate penalties for illicit arms brokering." In a 2010 report, Brokers Without Borders, Oxfam used the example how a New Zealand-registered shell company was linked to a shipment of weapons from North Korea to Iran. When the 35-tonne cache of weapons was intercepted by Thailand authorities during a refuelling stop in December 2009, it was discovered that the plane chartered for the transfer was leased by a NZ-registered shell company. Such arrangements came under further scrutiny after the release of the Panama Papers - a leak of 11.5 million documents from a Panamanian law firm. An inquiry by former PwC chairman John Shewan concluded in June that the disclosure rules for New Zealand's foreign trusts were "not fit for purpose" and "light-handed". It recommended that foreign investors should disclose much more information when setting up a trust and should file annual returns in New Zealand. Once implemented, any foreigner who sets up, controls, or benefits from a trust based in New Zealand will have to disclose their identity, foreign address and tax details at the time of registration. Then Finance Minister Bill English and Revenue Minister Michael Woodhouse responded by saying they had agreed to all of the recommendations in the Shewan Inquiry.

When you smile, do you gums show more than your teeth? Do you feel like your teeth appear too small because your gums are too big? A perfect smile has a balanced proportion between the size and shape of gums to teeth. Dentist refer to this as having a “gummy smile”. This is a relatively common problem that can be corrected by Dr. Schwan at his West Chester Dental Office using a treatment known as laser gum contouring. What is Gummy Smile? An attractive smile usually means having a balanced gum line — the gums are mostly hidden by the upper lip. Sometimes, when the gums extend lower than the upper lip or cover a large portion of the teeth, it is known as a “gummy smile”. A low or uneven gum-line can cause healthy, straight teeth to appear small, uneven, or crooked. A gummy smile may result from genetics, certain prescription drugs (blood pressure medication), or other health issues. While a gummy smile does not indicate unhealthy teeth, many people become self-conscious about their appearance or suffer from low self-confidence as a result. What Is Laser Gum Contouring? Thanks to the modern technical advances in laser dental surgery, gum reshaping is now the fastest, easiest, and least painful way to correct a gummy smile. The advanced diode laser trims away excess tissue, sealing wounds while it cuts. You will experience less pain and faster healing time. Experiencing instant results without excessive bleeding or need for stitches. At the dental office of Dr. Schwan we have a couple of different approaches to the issue of “gummy smiles”. Depending on the individual case, Dr. Schwan may refer the patient to a periodontist, orthodontist, or an oral surgeon for more specialized dental care. Many times laser gum contouring is the best, fastest, and most painless way to treat a gummy smile. Is Laser Gum Contouring Painful? Before the treatment, you will receive a local anesthetic to eliminate any pain during the procedure. Afterwards, it is normal to experience some soreness, and your teeth and gums may feel tender. Fortunately, most people are able to manage it with over the counter pain killers and find that long term benefits of having a more attractive smile outweigh the temporary discomfort and and healing time.

After having it on my to-do and wish list for about a year, I finally ordered and read ‘The Pragmatic Programmer‘. It was a really interesting read. I was able to relate to many of the chapters in it. The book talks about how programmers can rise from journeymen to masters. The book contains many (70 to be precise) one line nuggets of programming wisdom. The authors themselves have made these available online here. Coding Horror (Jeff Atwood) also has a handy quick reference to many of the ideas mentioned in the book – link. Even though the tips by themselves are great, I would recommend reading the whole book rather than reading them in isolation. What makes the book great is the way the authors presents the ideas in easy-to-understand ways, often using small stories and analogies wherever applicable. Some of the interesting ones below: The Broken Window Theory (wiki): Consider a building with a few broken windows. If the windows are not repaired, the tendency is for vandals to break a few more windows. Eventually, they may even break into the building, and if it’s unoccupied, perhaps become squatters or light fires inside. This is how human psychology works. The same is applicable in terms of software quality. If we introduce entropy into the system (in the form of poor code, lack of unit or integration testing, poor review practices etc.), it will spread rapidly and destroy the system. The opposite can also happen where once we establish an immaculate system and great practices, individuals would try not to be the first to lower the standards. The Stone Soup The story can be read here. The authors have lessons from both sides of the story: Tip: Be a Catalyst for Change Like how the soldiers (or travellers as per the wiki) influenced and brought about change gradually, if we show people a glimpse of the future, they will be more willing to participate. Tip: Remember the big picture Villagers fall for the stone trick since they failed to notice gradual changes. This can happen to our software systems and projects as well. The next point is related. The Boiled Frog If a frog is put suddenly into boiling water, it will jump out, but if it is put in cold water which is then brought to a boil slowly, it will not perceive the danger and will be cooked to death. The story is often used as a metaphor for the inability or unwillingness of people to react to or be aware of threats that rise gradually. Gradual increases in CPU/memory utilisation or service latencies which eventually bring down systems come into mind here. Gradual feature-creep and/or project delays which eventually add up to failed projects are also examples. Some of the programming pearls of wisdom that I found most compelling were: The Requirement Pit Requirements are often unclear and mixed with current policies and implementation. We must capture the underlying semantic invariants as requirements and document the specific or current work practices as policy. Tip: Abstractions live longer than details The Law of Demeter for Functions (wiki) An object’s method should call only methods belonging to: - Any parameters passed in - Objects it creates - Component objects Following this law helps us write ‘shy’ code which minimises coupling between modules. Listing other tips below: - DRY principle – Don’t Repeat Yourself. Avoid duplication of code or documentation. - Orthogonality – Decouple systems into independent components. - Always use version control (even for documents, memos, scripts – for everything) - Use Domain Specific Languages (DSLs) and Code Generators to simply development - Ruthless testing – Test early, test often, test automatically - Use prototypes and tracer bullets wherever and whenever possible

Welcome to the 25th edition of Shalati’s Bush Facts. In this edition we will be looking at the Pearl Spotted Owlet. There is resident breeding pairs on Shakati, and is regularly seen in the tress. This article contains some interesting facts about this owl. Continue reading BUSH FACTS #25 – PEARL SPOTTED OWLET Welcome to the 24th edition of Shakati’s Bush Facts. In this edition we will be focusing on the Greater Kudu. These are the majestic warriors of the bush, and have the ability to melt away into the bush. Continue reading BUSH FACTS #24 – KUDU Welcome to the 23rd edition of Shakati’s Bush Facts. In this edition we will be focusing on the Coqui Francolin. If you stand still for long enough in the bush, you will see the bush come alive. And if you are really lucky, you will see the elusive Coqui Francolin. Continue reading BUSH FACTS #23 – COQUI FRANCOLIN Welcome to the 22nd edition of Shakati’s Bush Facts. In this edition we will be focusing on the African Grey Hornbill. Its distinctive call makes the bush seems alive with sound, and thus makes it one of the most sought after birds at Shakati Private Game Reserve. The African Grey Hornbill is a very frequent visitor to Shakati. You can usually hear the African Grey Hornbill by its piping pee-o pee-o pee-o call. Continue reading BUSH FACTS #22 – AFRICAN GREY HORNBILL Welcome to the 21st edition of Shakati Bush facts. In this special edition we will be sharing exciting news, and share where are the most popular birding sites on Shakati. Inclusion in Birdlife South Africa It is with great pride that we announce that Shakati has been included into Birdlife South Africa’s birder friendly establishments. Shakati is now visible on the Birder Friendly Establishment website. This means that Shakati has been recognized in its efforts into Birdlife Conservation . Continue reading BUSH FACTS #21 – BIRDING HOTSPOTS Welcome to the Twentieth edition of Shakati’s Bush Facts. In this edition we will be focusing on one of our feathered night friends – the Fiery Necked Nightjar. It’s distinctive and frequently uttered call is rendered as ‘good-lord-deliver-us’, and thus makes one of the most beautiful night sounds at Shakati. The Fiery Necked Nightjar (Caprimulgus pectoralis) is identified in Robert’s 7th edition: bird number 405 and commonly known by the following names: Afrikaanse naguil [Afrikaans]; Udebeza [Xhosa]; uZavolo (also applied to European nightjar) [Zulu]; Rumbamba (generic term for nightjar) [Kwangali]; Leuwauwe [North Sotho]; Datiwa (generic name for nightjar) [Shona]; Malwelwe (generic term for nightjar) [Swazi]; Kubhasti (generic term for nightjar) [Tsonga]; Leubauba, Mmapheke, Tshogwi (all 3 are generic terms for nightjar) [Tswana]; Roesthalsnachtzwaluw [Dutch]; Engoulevent musicien [French]; Rotnacken-nachtschwalbe [German]; Noitibó-de-pescoço-dourado [Portuguese] Continue reading BUSH FACTS #20 – FIERY NECKED NIGHTJAR Welcome to the nineteenth edition of Shakati Bush Facts. In this edition we will be focusing on the Southern Yellow-Billed Hornbill. The Southern Yellow-Billed Hornbill (Tockus leucomelas) is known by several names, which includes: Geelbekneushoringvoël [Afrikaans]; Suidelike geelbekneushoringvoël [Afrikaans]; Rukoko (generic term for hornbills with red or yellow bills) [Kwangali]; Goto, Hoto (generic names for hornbill) [Shona]; Nkorho (generic term for smaller hornbills) [Tsonga]; Kôrwê [Tswana]; Geelsnaveltok [Dutch]; Calao leucomèle [French]; Gelbschnabeltoko [German]; Calau-de-bico-amarelo [Portuguese] Robertson’s Bird ID: 459 Continue reading BUSH FACTS #19 – SOUTHERN YELLOW-BILLED HORNBILL Welcome to the eighteenth edition of Shakati Bush Facts. In this edition we will be focusing on our famous Giraffes. Giraffes are fascinating animals due to its massive size, and in this article we will shed some light on some of the details around them. Where does the name Giraffe come from? The Giraffe name was first used in Arabia and comes from the word zarāfah meaning fast-walker. The Italians used the name giraffe around 1590s and the English name was used from around 1600 and were derived from Camelopard which were a combination of Greek words meaning camel and leopard. Continue reading BUSH FACTS #18 – GIRAFFE’S Welcome the seventeenth edition of Shakati Bush Facts. In this edition we will be looking at the Savannahs’ of Shakati. Shakati have several savannah plains, which includes: Blesbok plain, Elands Hoogte, Impala Plain, Koedoes vlakte, River Plain and Wildebeest plain. What is a Savannah? The word Savannah comes from the latin name Zauana, and was first used by a Englishman Peter Martyr, which reported it as the local name for the plain around Comagre, the court of the cacique Carlos in present-day Panama. A savannah consists of a mixed woodland grassland ecosystem. The trees or bush are sufficiently widely spaced so that the canopy does not close. A Savannah consist thus of primarily grass where animals can freely move around, and graze on an unbroken herbaceous layer consisting primarily of grasses. The savannah is a grassland ecosystem characterized wildly spaced trees with an open canopy covering approximately 20% or the earth surface area Continue reading BUSH FACTS #17 – SHAKATI’S SAVANNAHS Welcome to the sixteenth edition of Shakati Bush facts. In this edition we will be focusing on Shakati’s location, Plant communities/habitats, and animal life, food and water habits. We focus on the environment as this is an essential part of our ecosystem The reserve is located close to the southern turning circle at an altitude of approx. 1000-1100 meters. The annual rainfall is approx. 600 mm. / Year, which falls in the summer period October-March, while the period April-September is dry. The underground is sandstone / sandy soil up to 7 km depth. In summer the day / night temperature is around 30/20 while day / night the temperature in winter is 20/5 degrees. Continue reading BUSH FACTS #16 – SHAKATI’S ECOSYSTEM

Development Cooperation and Aid Effectiveness in Asia January 19, 2011 In November 2011, Korea will host the Fourth High Level Forum on Aid Effectiveness (HLF4). The HLF mechanism was established by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Development Assistance Committee (DAC) to take stock of donors’ progress on their commitments to the Paris Declaration on Aid Effectiveness. The Paris Declaration outlines a set of principles and indicators for delivering more effective development assistance. Signed by over 100 donor and developing countries, it is regarded as an important benchmark of aid commitment and development success. HLF4 is significant for several reasons. First it is being held for the first time in Asia. Previous high level events have been held in Europe, and HLF3 was held in Accra, Ghana. Second it will be hosted by Korea, one of the newest members of the DAC and the first former aid recipient country to join the DAC. Third, the international development landscape has become increasingly complex with new players populating the field, contributing their resources and approaches to development cooperation. These include private sector foundations like Bill and Melinda Gates, issue-specific vertical funds like the Global Fund for AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, and rising non-DAC donors like India and China. Indeed, many feel that the current international aid architecture needs to evolve to embrace and maximize the value of these new forms of cooperation. In Seoul in December 2010, the Korea Development Institute and The Asia Foundation jointly hosted the first in a series of dialogues focusing on Asian approaches to development cooperation. The dialogues bring together experts and development cooperation officials from Korea, China, India, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand to contribute the Asian experience of development cooperation to the ongoing dialogue on aid effectiveness leading up to HLF4. The Seoul meeting revealed several common features of development cooperation across this diverse group of Asian donors. First, though often characterized as new or emerging donors, many of these countries have a long history of development cooperation that has simply fallen under the radar of traditional aid frameworks for many years. India, for example, has been providing technical assistance and training to third countries since 1964. China has been aiding Africa since the 1950s. Malaysia’s Technical Cooperation Programme has been in operation since 1980. Second, these countries share the unique experience of being both aid recipients and aid donors, often simultaneously. This unique experience provides them with a unique understanding of other developing countries and has shaped the partnership philosophy and delivery of aid by these donors. In particular, these Asian donors emphasize the importance of country ownership, country-led development cooperation and respecting the sovereignty of their partner countries with few conditionalities or strings attached. “Aid” is rarely used in their terminology, and they view their approach as distinctly non-western and free from a colonial psyche. Third, these countries wish to share their own success as an alternative path for developing countries. Korea’s “developmental state” model used ODA to help transform the country from one of the poorest in the world to an Asian tiger. Similarly, Singapore’s investment in human resources transformed the natural resource-poor city state into an economic wonder in the two decades following its independence in 1965. As a result, training as capacity building is a common type of bilateral assistance across these countries. All six development cooperation programs invest heavily in providing training and technical advice that draws on the experience of their own development success. Fourth, development cooperation tends to be more explicitly tied to economic and foreign policy objectives with these Asian donors than it is with traditional donors, such as the UK, whose development agenda is explicitly poverty focused. Not surprisingly, the largest recipients of Indian assistance are Nepal and Bhutan. In the 1990s, China made an explicit choice to focus its aid on African countries, to promote both African development and mutual economic benefits. Thailand has concentrated its assistance on its neighbors as a tool for foreign policy and regional integration. Malaysia’s fourth Prime Minister, Mahathir Mohamad, used the country’s technical cooperation program as a means of strengthening the collective self-reliance of southern countries as a counterweight to western influence. This multi-objective orientation has resulted in complex “aid management” in these countries. While Korea and Thailand have dedicated “aid” agencies, India, Malaysia, Singapore, and China do not. With or without dedicated agencies, cooperation is often managed through multiple government departments. Looking forward to HLF4 in Busan in 2011, what are the implications of this new development landscape? While five of the six countries (all except Singapore) have signed the Paris Declaration, most signed as aid recipients rather than aid donors. And while Korea joined the DAC in 2010, India, China, and Singapore may not be as interested in joining, believing that a one-size-fits-all aid architecture and the emphasis on delivery mechanisms is not relevant to their modes and objectives of cooperation. These new donors and others may challenge the status quo at Busan by calling for a more inclusive approach to “development effectiveness” that embraces the principles of cooperation as practiced in South-South partnerships. Over the next 10 months in the run-up to HLF4, KDI and The Asia Foundation will work to provide a forum for these Asian donors to articulate their views and consider options for a more inclusive dialogue in Busan. The Asia Foundation 465 California St., 9th Floor San Francisco, CA 94104 PO Box 193223 San Francisco, CA 94119-3223 HIGHLIGHTS ACROSS ASIA Forced Labor and Child Trafficking in India’s Garment Sector

Selenium is actually a trace mineral believed to become vital in fantastic health and an especially highly effective ally with regards to fighting choose cancers. To clarify, a 'trace' element suggests the human physique only demands a compact amount to function properly. Some medical experts also credit organic selenium when taken in correct dosages, to become valuable in preventing or treating arthritis, allergies and heart disease -- amongst other ailments, too. Researchers believe this mineral is utilized by the human physique to create certain antioxidants - assisting to deter free-radical cell harm and help the natural regulation with the immune technique. Some studies also indicate selenium could also assist in the balance of thyroid hormones. If a lot of of this supplement is taken, nevertheless, the unwanted effects can include things like nausea, vomiting, hair loss - and also death. Though the best levels of selenium worth with each other with vitamin E and help the body's removal of free-radicals, elevated amounts of this enzyme are believed to essentially encourage free-radical harm. Commonly, a selenium deficiency is uncommon. But specific regions, like China and Russia, might have soils with reduced selenium content material - which may perhaps ultimately affect meals created in certain area and make a deficiency additional most likely for those consuming nourishment from that area. Although only a private medical professional can assist advise the correct dosage of each day selenium supplement for men and women, a frequent guideline allowance regarded as by numerous medical experts is 70 mcg for males and 55 mcg for women. As with all trace minerals, organic selenium need to only be taken below a doctor's guidance. Every day ingestion of this mineral are from time to time discouraged as well as a twice-a-week schedule is frequently an alternative in these instances. Larger dosages of this mineral are certainly not commonly advised for those who have diabetes. selenium pills of Selenium usually contain specific meats, choose nuts, seafood, and dairy goods. The actual level of this mineral in meats, having said that, usually fluctuates and, again, look to rely on the soil in numerous regions. Animals that consume plants in selenium-poor volcanic regions, by way of example, eventually are likely to have reduced selenium levels in their meat. Some selenium may also be lost for the duration of meals processing, also. Selenium supplements are typically offered at well being food retailers and through Web supplement provide outlets inside a tablet or liquid drop type. Prescription shampoos or liquid combinations that contain selenium sulfide may perhaps also be regarded for fungal infection treatment applications. Please consult a doctor just before taking supplements as they may interfere with prescription drugs.

On Oct 3, 2011, at 3:54 PM, Michael Hudson wrote: > I suggest putting a specific POLICY DEMAND. > How about "Bankruptcy legislation to free people without jobs from > student loan debt." > Or more accurately: "Tax capital gains as high as wages." > "Remove the tax deductibility of debt." > "A Public Option for Credit Cards -- lower the rates and penalties." >> I would recommend adding/substituting something along these lines. If we're >> going to raise the subject of "fraud" we need to give some of the supporting >> The systemically dangerous institutions (SDIs) are inaccurately called "too >> big to fail" banks. The administration calls them "systemically important," >> and acts as if they deserve a gold star. The ugly truth, however, is what >> Wall Street and each administration screams when the SDIs get in trouble. >> They warn us that if a single SDI fails it will cause a global financial >> crisis. There are roughly 20 U.S. SDIs and about the same number abroad. >> That means that we roll the dice 40 times a day to see which SDI will blow up >> next and drag the world economy into crisis. Economists agree that the SDIs >> are so large that they are grotesquely inefficient. In "good times," >> therefore, they harm our economy. It is insane not to shrink the SDIs to the >> point that they no longer hold the global economy hostage. The ability -- and >> willingness -- of the CEOs that control SDIs to hold our economy hostage makes >> the SDIs too big to regulate and prosecute. It also allows them to extort, >> dominate, and degrade our democracies. The SDIs pose a clear and present >> danger to the U.S. and the world. >> It takes a global effort against the SDIs because they constantly put nations >> in competition with each other in order to generate a "race to the bottom." >> We are always being warned that if the U.S. adopts even minimal regulation of >> its SDIs they will flee to the City of London or be unable to compete with >> Germany's "universal" banks. The result of the race to the bottom, however, >> as Ireland, Iceland, the UK, and U.S. all experienced is that we create >> intensely criminogenic environment that creates epidemics of "control fraud." >> Control fraud -- frauds led by CEOs who use seemingly legitimate entities as >> "weapons" to defraud -- cause greater financial losses than all other forms of >> property crime -- combined. Because of the political power of the SDIs and >> the destruction of effective regulation these fraudulent SDIs now commit >> endemic fraud with impunity. >> Effective financial regulation is essential if markets are to work. >> Regulators have to serve as the "cops on the beat" to keep the fraudsters from >> gaining a competitive advantage over honest firms. George Akerlof, the >> economist who identified and labeled this perverse ("Gresham's") dynamic was >> awarded the Nobel Prize in 2001 for his insight about how control fraud makes >> market forces perverse. >> “[D]ishonest dealings tend to drive honest dealings out of the market. The >> cost of dishonesty, therefore, lies not only in the amount by which the >> purchaser is cheated; the cost also must include the loss incurred from >> driving legitimate business out of existence.” George Akerlof (1970). >> One of the most perceptive observers of humanity recognized this same dynamic >> two centuries before Akerlof. >> "The Lilliputians look upon fraud as a greater crime than theft. For, they >> allege, care and vigilance, with a very common understanding, can protect a >> man’s goods from thieves, but honesty hath no fence against superior cunning. >> . . where fraud is permitted or connived at, or hath no law to punish it, the >> honest dealer is always undone, and the knave gets the advantage." Swift, J. >> Gulliver’s Travels >> We are the allies of honest banks and bankers. We are their essential allies, >> for only effective regulation permits them to exist and prosper. Think of >> what would happen to banks if we took the regular cops off the beat and >> stopped prosecuting bank robbers. That's what happens when we take the >> regulatory cops off the beat. The only difference is that it is the >> controlling officers who loot the bank in the absence of the regulatory cops >> on the beat. It is the anti-regulators who are the enemy of honest banks and >> Top criminologists, effective financial regulators, and Nobel Laureates in >> economics have confirmed that epidemics of control fraud, such as the FBI >> warned of in September 2004, can cause financial bubbles to hyper-inflate and >> drive catastrophic financial crises. Indeed, the FBI predicted in September >> 2004 that the developing "epidemic" of mortgage fraud would cause a financial >> "crisis" if it were not stopped. It grew massively after 2004. The >> fraudulent SDIs (who were far broader than Fannie and Freddie, indeed, they >> only began to dominate the secondary market in sales of fraudulent loans after >> 2005) ignored the FBI and industry fraud warnings for the most obvious of >> reasons -- they were leaders the frauds. The ongoing U.S. crisis was driven >> overwhelmingly by fraudulent "liar's" loans. Studies have shown that the >> incidence of fraud in liar's loans is 90% (MBA/MARI 2006) and that by 2006 >> roughly one-third of all mortgage loans were liar's loans (Credit Suisse >> 2007). Rajdeep Sengupta, an economist at the Federal Reserve Bank of St. >> Louis, reported in 2010 in an article entitled “Alt-A: The Forgotten Segment >> of the Mortgage Market” that: >> "[B]etween 2003 and 2006 … subprime and Alt-A [loans grew] 94 and 340 percent, >> respectively. The higher levels of originations after 2003 were largely >> sustained by the growth of the nonprime (both the subprime and Alt-A) segment >> of the mortgage market." >> Sengupta's data greatly understate the role of “Alt-A” loans (the euphemism >> for “liar’s loans”) for they ignore the fact that by 2006 half of the loans >> called “subprime” were also liar’s loans (Credit Suisse: 2007). It was the >> massive growth in fraudulent liar’s loans that hyper-inflated and greatly >> extended the life of the bubble, producing the Great Recession. The growth of >> fraudulent loans rapidly increased, rather than decreased, after government >> and industry anti-fraud specialists warned that liar's loans were endemically >> fraudulent. No one in the government ever told a bank that it had to make or >> purchase a "liar's" loan. No honest mortgage lender would make liar's loans >> because doing so must cause severe losses. Criminologists, economists aware >> of the relevant criminological and economics literature on control fraud, and >> a host of investigations have confirmed the endemic nature of control fraud in >> the ongoing U.S. crisis. >> But the banking elites that led these frauds have been able to do so with >> impunity from prosecution. Take on federal agency, the Office of Thrift >> Supervision (OTS). During the S&L debacle, the OTS made well over 10,000 >> criminal referrals and made the removal of control frauds from the industry >> and their prosecution its top two priorities. The agency's support and the >> provision of 1000 FBI agents to investigate the cases led to the felony >> conviction of over 1,000 S&L frauds. The bulk of those convictions came from >> the "Top 100" list that OTS and the FBI created to prioritize the >> investigation of the worst failed S&Ls. In the ongoing crisis -- which caused >> losses 40 times larger than the S&L debacle, the OTS made zero criminal >> referrals, the FBI (as recently as FY 2007) assigned only 120 agents >> nationally to respond to the well over one million cases of mortgage fraud >> that occurred annually, and the OTS' non-effort produced no convictions of any >> S&L control frauds. OTS' sister agencies, the Fed and the OCC, have the same >> record of not even attempting to identify and prosecute the frauds. The FDIC >> was better, but still only a shadow of what it was in fighting fraud in the >> early 1990s. If control frauds can operate with impunity from criminal >> prosecutions, then the perverse Gresham's dynamic is maximized and market >> forces will increasingly drive honest banks and firms from the marketplace. >> The Financial Crisis Inquiry Commission reported on the results of the Great >> Recession that was driven by this fraud epidemic: >> "As this report goes to print, there are more than 26 million Americans who >> are out of work, cannot find full-time work, or have given up looking for >> work. About >> four million families have lost their homes to foreclosure and another four >> and a half million have slipped into the foreclosure process or are seriously >> behind on their >> mortgage payments. Nearly $11 trillion in household wealth has vanished, with >> retirement accounts and life savings swept away. Businesses, large and small, >> have felt the sting of a deep recession." >> It is the fraudulent SDIs that are the massive job killers and wealth >> destroyers. It is the Great Recession that the fraudulent SDIs produced that >> caused most of the growth in the federal deficits and made the fiscal crises >> in our states and localities acute. The senior officers that led the control >> frauds are the opposite of the "productive class." No one, without the aid of >> an army, has ever destroyed more wealth and dreams than the control frauds. >> It is past to hold them accountable, to help their victims recover, and to end >> their ongoing frauds and corruption that have crippled our economy, our >> democracy, and our nation. jj >> statistics speak for themselves. >> According to the National Academy of Sciences, we have over 50 million >> Americans living in poverty. This shocking number of American families >> currently living in poverty is at an all-time high. Over 50 million Americans >> are also without health care. 46 million Americans are relying on food stamps >> to feed their families. Over 64 million Americans have zero or negative net >> worth. Over 200 million Americans are living paycheck to paycheck desperately >> struggling to make ends meet as they are buried in debt. As this dire >> situation grows even more severe, the global financial elite are richer than >> ever. Over the course of the past generation, they have consolidated wealth >> in unprecedented fashion. We currently have the highest inequality of wealth >> in American history. Not even the Robber Barons were as bad as the modern day >> economic elite. >> In the US, millionaire households currently have over $46 trillion in wealth. >> On an annual basis, only one-tenth of one percent of the US population makes >> over $1 million per year. Breaking it down even further, 400 American >> billionaires currently have as much wealth as 154 million Americans. These >> 400 people have as much wealth as half of the entire US population. >> As we said before, we are not against rich people for being rich. We believe >> wealth should be a byproduct of working together to solve our problems with >> aligned interests. >> Our families and our country have endured financial oppression for long >> Please join us or organize an action of your own. Anything you are willing to >> do to rebel against economic tyranny in a non-violent manner is welcome.

The lack of female enrolments in ICT is widely recognised and has prompted a range of strategies to attract more women, most of which do not include curriculum changes at any level. Research suggests that there are aspects of the ICT curriculum that could appeal to females, particularly in relation to benefits to society and humanity in general, and that including these considerations in the curriculum would be of interest to all students. The perceptions of a gender-inclusive ICT curriculum in Australia have been ascertained from a survey and forum discussions of ICT academic managers and leaders of ICT learning and teaching. Although a significant proportion of the surveyed academics recognises that different features of the ICT curriculum appeal to males (mainly technology) and females (mainly the benefits of the technology to humanity) this has not translated into the practical implementation of a genderinclusive curriculum in most institutions. Most respondents would welcome informative guidelines on developing a gender inclusive curriculum.

Even with voter registration rolls increasing in California, it’s no secret that young people tend to shy away from voting more than older people do. And this Election Day, extraordinary though the campaign season is, likely will be no different. The Public Policy Institute of California estimates that Americans ages 18 to 34 will make up only 17 percent of the country’s likely voters in November. Those are the same millennials who flocked to former presidential candidate Bernie Sanders and his “political revolution.” Now that he has dropped out of the race for the Democratic nomination, many of his more ardent supporters have vowed to skip the polls in November, even though the Vermont senator endorsed Hillary Clinton earlier this week. Sanders might not be in the race anymore, but there are plenty of reasons to turn out at the polls. Here are five reasons: Sanders ignited his revolution with promises to help a generation of young people and their families who are drowning in debt from skyrocketing tuition and fees. It’s a real issue, as many millennials know. Clinton wisely released a proposal that would forgive loans for at least 25 million borrowers. She also has promised to make in-state public colleges and universities tuition free by 2021 for families making less than $125,000 a year. That’s a reason to vote that will actually pay off. Millennials care about the health of a world they have to live in long after most baby boomers are gone. One of the most effective means of ensuring that is to elect leaders who will implement policies to combat climate change. Nobody can solve this problem on his or her own. But by taking the simple step of voting for candidates at all levels of government who will make the environment a priority, the country can continue down the path laid out by President Barack Obama and Gov. Jerry Brown to cut carbon emissions. This one might not be as obvious. For those who study abroad or enjoy traveling, the nation’s position on foreign affairs is vitally important to its relationships with other countries. That goes for countries in Europe, recently shaken by Britain’s exit from the European Union, and in the Middle East, Asia and Africa. Millennials are globally engaged, understanding completely that the world is indeed flat. For this reason, it’s important to vote for leaders who represent those values. U.S. Supreme Court The next president of the United States will decide who is appointed to fill the vacancy left by the late Justice Antonin Scalia in the U.S. Supreme Court. Critically important decisions hang in the balance. Among them, laws that ensure the hard-fought rights of women and gays and lesbians remain intact. Campaign finance laws, another hot-button issue for Sanders and his young supporters, could to come before the court again. Vote for someone who will take you into consideration when nominating the next justice. A voice in society This year, more than in many years, there’s talk of how voting doesn’t make a difference. The system is “rigged,” some say. But millennials make up about 32 percent of the U.S. population, up there with baby boomers for the biggest group eligible to vote. It was the youngest of Americans, through their support for upstart Sanders, who got the Democratic Party and its presumptive nominee to consider a far more progressive agenda than planned. No matter which candidates you support, your vote matters. Remember this come November.

If I were asked to guess a country where AIDS is exploding, China wouldn’t come immediately to mind, but it should. There was an 8.6% increase in the number of AIDS-related deaths in China last year; of those that were reported and/or acknowledged. The percentage of cases might appear low in a country with an enormous population, but the number of affected people is high: over 68,000 new cases of HIV/AIDS reported in the past year. CNN provides an overview of the current situation in China, touching on the years that the government denied there was a problem and their current policies, in the article The price of blood: China faces HIV/AIDS epidemic. For more information on the current state of global HIV/AIDS, the 2012 report from UNAIDS is full of interesting data and impressive infographics.

Iran /r Azerbaijan The 1943 Tehran Declaration guarenteed Iran's territorial integrity and independence following the conclusion of World War II. However, the Soviet Union resented the fact that Iran refused to grant the USSR oil consessions. In response, the Soviet Union fomented revolts among Azeris and Kurds in Iran and soon formed the People's Republic of Azerbaijan* (December, 1945) and the Kurdish People's Republic not long after, both being run by Soviet-controlled leaders. However, Soviet troops remained in Iran following the January 1946 expiration of a wartime treaty providing for the presence of Soviet, American, and British troops in Iran during the war. While the British had withdrawn their troops in keeping with the treaty, it was becoming obvious that the Soviets did not intend to do the same. This led the US to bring Iran's case to the United Nations, protesting the Soviet violation of the treaty. This led the Soviet Union to withdraw its troops in May, 1946 after receiving a promise of oil consessions from Iran. However, with the removal of Soviet support the People's Republic of Azerbaijan and the Kurdish People's Republic soon collapsed due to a lack of Soviet and popular support, and both republics were deposed by Iranian troops. Then, adding insult to injury, the Iranian parliament voted against giving oil consessions to the Soviet Union, leaving the Soviets nothing for their troubles in Iran. *The People's Republic of Azerbaijan should not be confused with the Azeri Soviet Socialist Republic (modern-day Azerbaijan). Both entities were populated by Turkic, Muslim Azeris, with the People's Republic of Azerbaijan comprising Azeris living in Iran.

England is part of Europe. It is an autonomous administrative division of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, which is situated in Western Europe. Conventionally known as the United Kingdom, this country is made up of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.Continue Reading England is bordered to the north by Scotland and to the west by Wales. These three self-governing regions comprise Great Britain, an island in the Atlantic Ocean that is located on the eastern side of Ireland and northwest section of France.

During the middle of last week I revisited a site I haven’t browsed to in a while. Heavens-above.com can be used to, among other things, determine when the International Space Station is visible in your part of the world. You plug in your lat and long (or choose your city from a menu) and the site will tell you when you can see the ISS float by with tables showing the time, the direction, the azimuth etc. I used to do this more often a few years ago; I’d grab Suzanne and we’d rush outside and watch this bright dot go overhead. I’d marvel, and Suzanne would pretend to be interested. It was more interesting to watch it magically appear or disappear in the middle of the sky as it came out of or went into the Earths shadow. I also used this site to predict Iridium flares which are awesome. Should do this again sometime… Anyhow, this week I saw that on Friday night it’d be visible for a good 10 minutes going from horizon to horizon with a maximum altitude of 60-odd degrees (not too bad on the neck muscles) and an amazing magnitude of -3.2. Very bright indeed. So, when I got home Friday night I had about an hour to give Jett and Ashton a quick lesson in orbital mechanics and an even quicker history on the construction of the ISS. I’m pretty sure they got the gist of it all; that the ISS goes around the Earth, it’s a joint project between the Russian, American and European space agencies, that it needs to be around dawn or dusk if you want to see it etc. So, with that in mind I thought we’d bring up NASAs own tracking map so we could see exactly where it was, and so we could run outside at the right time, but unfortunately that map is turned out to be hopelessly inaccurate at the time. Not sure why, maybe it misread the time/timezone from my system clock but it seemed to be way out. So we made do with the map at Heavens-Above.com which was fine. We saw that it was flying right over London, England and its path would bring it over Perth via India all in about 35 minutes. Pretty fast! So, at the appointed time which turned out to be about 5 past 8 we wandered outside and turned it into a competition to find the space station first. It wasn’t hard. We all knew it was coming from the north-east. When it came it was easily the brightest thing in the sky besides the moon. Ashton asked me if I was really serious about Sirius being the brightest star. Haw Haw. So, yeah we watched it for a few minutes. A silent, bright light floating by. I think Ashton lost interest pretty quickly but Jett stayed the whole time. The thing is, for the rest of the night and for most of the next day Jett would ask, “Dad, where is the space station now?” and he’d demand to get back into the computer to use the “space map” to find it. This would happen about every half hour. Once he found out where it was, he’d run around the house and give status updates to Suzanne and Ashton. “Mum, it’s over Japan now!” He asked me to find pictures and the names of the current crew too. I wonder why this has captured his imagination so much? And I wonder how long it will last. Next weekend I plan on breaking out the old telescope and pointing it at Mars which is currently close to opposition. Moons’s a bit bright now, so we’ll wait a week.

Students creating visual directions I have students create visual directions like how Lego sets have. A 100 day of school is coming up I like to give the students a 100 Legos. They must then create a visual directions. As they build I have them create directions a rough draft at first. Next they create a final color version. This is an example of a first graders " pirate ship" directions. I like the top right corner shows the drawing of a ship. Then using math counts how many Legos should be placed using arrows. Older students could probably write a little more.

The BON ECOSCOPE, a national research infrastructure called “biodiversity (meta)data hub”, organizes its Users’ Forum on April 26th 2017, in Paris. The Forum will gather researchers, protected areas managers and policy-decision makers to discuss Products & Services – those already existing and sharable and those missing that we should develop – needed by biodiversity data users to improve knowledge, the understanding of the state and the dynamic of biodiversity and the decision basis. National and EU BONs, as well as research infrastructures (RIs) are invited to present their latests developments and all participants are invited to express their needs, from mining of heterogeneous and scattered data to linking with others communities (climate data, health and social sciences…). This day will be followed by a workshop dedicated to the brand new ECOSCOPE metadata portal (in english of course !) to collect feed-back to improve the tool. Two others major actions will mark this year for the French BON: a scientific congress gathering biodiversity data producers (academic and non academic) around questions related to biodiversity monitoring at national scale, EBVs, indicators and observation at ecosystem level & a joint action with CNRS (IMBE) and GBIF (Fr.) about graphs approach to investigate complex research question and to mine and visualize data. More information is coming in spring ! Questions & wishes to participate can be addressed to the team at firstname.lastname@example.org Moreover, several national initiatives are completing a major steps in their activities or are starting their actions: – A new Observation and Experimentation System dedicated to phenology (EBVs) is born. Called TEMPO, it goes further monitoring the state and dynamics of seasonal rhythms of living organisms and aims at understanding and predicting how climate change impacts the phenology and its consequences in terms of system productivity, survival and population distribution. – The national research infrastructure AgroBRCs deals with agronomic, biological and genetics (EBVs) resources for research and covers plants and crops, forests, domesticated animals, micro-organisms, soil and environmental resources, in compliance with the Nagoya Protocol. Two portals to access to crops and animals collections are opening within the next weeks. Finally, a significant event of the beginning of this year concerns ECOSCOPE: it is the creation of the “French Biodiversity Agency”, which brings together areas and species managers. The exchange with the scientific and academic community is engaged through the “Foundation for Research on Biodiversity” (which hosts the French BON) on research and information systems. This should improve the dialogue between “environment” and “research”, especially the coordination and the delivery of biodiversity observations and related services to users!

“All is true” wrote Balzac, in English, at the beginning of his 1835 novel le Pere Goriot. It is a warning that despite the dastardly characters and their actions the book is a realistic representation of Parisian life, not to be dismissed as dramatically enhanced in order to titillate or scandalize. The plot somewhat replays Shakespeare’s King Lear during the Bourbon Restoration, with two faithless daughters and their elderly besotted father, a wealthy vermicelli manufacturer who ruins himself for the daughters’ furtherance. Eugene de Rastignac, an impoverished young law student swept up in the daughters’ social ambitions, resides at the father’s rooming house, watches the old man’s pitiful decline as his sacrifices push him to ever dingier rooms and more meager circumstances. This central character will later appear in other novels of La Comedie Humaine, a vast interconnected web of novels about French society. Balzac’s commitment to realism did not win him many friends with the critics, who wanted more sympathetic characters to portray society’s imperfections in a better light. Polite circumlocution would have avoided the naming of names. Yet Goriot is one of the foundational novels of French Literature because in it we find human nature mirrored rather than excused. If, as Chekhov proposed, the purpose of art is not to solve problems but to formulate them correctly, Balzac focuses on the problem of human frailty and lays its weakness out for examination; when the daughters are too busy to send anything but their empty crest-emblazoned carriages to the old man’s funeral, Balzac pillories their outrageous callousness by simply comparing such gestures of consumerist finery alongside the pathetically impoverished circumstances of the burial. Art’s ability to flay its subject is one of its most valued assets. Art is able to seek and to tell the truth from all angles, to observe and reflect on what is there from a viewpoint unattainable by any other medium. Literature explains from the viewpoint of many invented narrators, painting displays from multiple perspectives simultaneously or from none at all, music narrates without words, manipulating time to its own advantage. Experiencing art is potentially a morally broadening education, exposing the individual to new vantage points in the same way that travel challenges the traveler to re-think his or her thoughts about home. Travel in the land of Art, when that art is true, or truth-seeking, “…can have an enormous influence on the tenor of a person’s life, more influential no doubt than any particular system of morality. In its ability to do this, it has an effect that, in an extended sense at least, can surely be called moral.” – John Hospers. It is when art is not seeking truth, when it is expressive of mere fantasy or wish-fulfillment, or when it tells outright lies, that we should beware of it, for it is then that it has entered the sphere of the misleading, even of the morally dangerous or corrupting. “Fantasy is the strong cunning enemy of the discerning intelligent more truly inventive power of the imagination, and in condemning art for being ‘fantastic’ one is condemning it for being untrue.” – Iris Murdoch. If Balzac had softened the behavior of Goriot’s two daughters, made them more selfless and less vainly ambitious, not only would we have less of an exploration of the pressures of life in high society, but we would also have less of an education about the human condition, more of a frivolous entertainment, comforting perhaps, but in the end foolishly misleading. Art owes its public the truth.