Catholic watchdog

An Archbishop, a Mosque and the New York Mayor

2010-08-19T01:00:00.001-07:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa)

Article by Marc Aupiais

SACNS Quote Analysis:
The Mosque that divides America

As Europe debates banning Islamic symbols, for the sake of women's, and feminist special interest campaigns, and cultural special interests, America is considering the placement of a Mosque by the September 11 site. The Democratic party, with Islamic constituencies (and two Muslim lawmakers), is taking the gamble of supporting the mosque by what to many Americans is something that has largely seemed to have been seen as a sacred site- a memorial of sorts. A memorial so strong, that it has been the basis of war after war, and the cause of many American deaths, as American special interests are pursued against Islamic special interests group Al Qaeda, and those accused by America of being their allies. Wars on a loose group of alleged allies whom the West has accused of using terror tactics.

Whether the mosque will increase the position of those opposing Islamic special interests, or increase the position of those supporting Islamic special interests, is at the heart of the position of the Catholic archbishop of the area of which it's concerned. In his view, building a mosque by the site, may harm Islamic special interests. He sites a Catholic example, where a Catholic building was not kept, but abandoned nearby a German concentration camp, this out of a view that it was most prudent at the time not to keep the given nearby site for religious purposes. This given the sensibilities, especially due to the positions of some of those promoting Jewish, and other special interests, after the Second World War. Sensibilities which had extended right into 1993, when Pope John Paul II, had the site abandoned.

That is to say

"Speaking during an impromptu news conference at Covenant House, a Catholic shelter in Manhattan for homeless youth, Archbishop Dolan invoked the example of Pope John Paul II, who in 1993 ordered Catholic nuns to move from their convent at the former Auschwitz death camp after protests from Jewish leaders.

“He’s the one who said, ‘Let’s keep the idea, and maybe move the address,’ ” the archbishop said. “It worked there; might work here.”"
JAVIER C. HERNANDEZ, writing for the New York Times (secular; Independent; American; Allegedly promotes Democratic party special interests)
18 / 08 | August / 2010

The Archbishop is referenced by the New York Times, as claiming his feelings on the mosque are not strong, and that he is prepared to mediate for the two sides. New York Mayor, the former Democrat, then Republican, now an independent: Michael Bloomberg, had a Catholic priest standing by him when he stated his belief that the building of the mosque was to be allowed, as a matter of legal rights, according to the New York Times.

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"The end of Catholic Healthcare in Boston": conscience protection of healthcare workers much more likely to end!- critics

2010-08-12T09:27:00.000-07:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa)

Article by Marc Aupiais

For our source quotes, analysis, and additional information, please see:

SACNS Quote Analysis:
"The end of Catholic Healthcare in Boston": conscience protection of healthcare workers much more likely to end!- say some sources

The Coalition to Save Catholic Health Care, is sending a letter to the pope, in a last ditch attempt, to prevent the sale of what is reportedly the last 6 Catholic Hospitals in Boston, USA: the Caritas Christi hospital system.

Previously Catholic Action League, had lead the charge against yet another sale of church controlled assets, stating that it would end 150 years of Catholic healthcare in Boston, among other concerns. The suggested buyer is secular capitalist firm: Cerberus Capital Management, L.P. of New York, named after the three headed dog, which guards Hades in Greek mythology. There is a contractual clause which demands the retaining of Catholic identity, but this can be done away with should the investment firm decide to pay about 3 percent (%) of the asking price to an approved archdiocesan charity, that is, seemingly if such Catholic identity becomes "unlawful or materially burdensome".

Some of the more outspoken criticisms of the clause come from the Catholic pro-life:

"But we already know that adherence to Catholic moral standards is unlawful for any hospital that participates in the Massachusetts universal health care insurance program (the model for ObamaCare), because the program requires participants to provide abortion, contraception, sterilization, etc. In fact, the archdiocese’s inability to participate in the Massachusetts program is precisely the reason why Caritas is unprofitable and is being sold. So the termination of Catholic standards is inevitable. Why the charade to mislead the public that Caritas will remain Catholic?"
Judie Brown writing for American Life League (Catholic; Independent; American; pro-life) article hosted on Catholic Exchange (Catholic; Independent; American)
12 / 07 | July / 2010

The choice to sell the hospitals to the second major buyer, comes as the hospitals, faced bankruptcy, after refusing to enter a state (not federal) government subsidized system in the state of Massachusetts, in the United States of America, which reportedly would have demanded that they provide contraception, abortion, and sterilization as services.

Critics of the deal, cite the fact that free services to the poor may suffer, as well as services to the mentally ill, and that conscience protection of health workers, and ethical trustworthiness of each hospital may be done away with. A previous deal in attempts to save the hospitals, was walked away from, when it became clear in the opinion of officials that the Catholic ethics of the hospitals would be severely compromised.

Caritas director James Karam, has admitted that he cannot guarantee the investment firm will maintain what would seem to be the archdiocese of Boston's last remaining Catholic hospitals. If this deal does not go through, it is seen as likely, by the archdiocese, that the debt ridden hospitals will soon be forced to close. Their high asking price, likely is due to state and federal investments in healthcare making hospitals more attractive to investors.

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Just like Fort Hood: Wikileaks alleged traitor signs were all there

2010-08-09T12:27:00.000-07:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa)

Article by Marc Aupiais

Like the Islamist special interest cause activist soldiers who detonated bombs against US troops in the mid-east, or the Fort Hood shooter; with the wikileaks fiasco for the US military, the signs were all there:

The alleged leak was reportedly a homosexual (colloquial: gay) special interests activist, who aired publicly, his breaking of US law, in pursuit of his special interests: as a homosexual in the military; and publicly made known his increasingly malcontent style opinions.

"The Wikileaks story is all about revelations. But very few news stories covering that controversy have covered the fuller story. What don’t they want to reveal?

The UK Telegraph shows the clues were there. Right upfront, the Telegraph notes that the prime suspect in the leaks, Pfc Bradley Manning, ‘raged against the US Army and society at large in the days before he allegedly downloaded thousands of secret military documents.’ The logical question ‘what did they know and when did they know it?’ applies.

The Pentagon, which is investigating the source of the leak, is expected to study Mr Manning’s background to ascertain if they missed any warnings when he applied to join the US Army. The postings on his Facebook page are also likely to form part of the inquiry.

That’s more than British understatement. It’s the assumption that information well known in Mr. Manning’s world and publicly available to anyone of interest is finally going to figure into an investigation that should have started many months ago and might have prevented the damage.

Mr Manning, who is openly homosexual, began his gloomy postings on January 12, saying: “Bradley Manning didn’t want this fight. Too much to lose, too fast.”

At the beginning of May, when he was serving at a US military base near Baghdad, he changed his status to: “Bradley Manning is now left with the sinking feeling that he doesn’t have anything left.”

Then he was left by his boyfriend, the article notes, and Manning was “livid.”

His tagline on his personal page reads: “Take me for who I am, or face the consequences!” …

Pictures on Mr Manning’s Facebook page include photos of him on school trips during his time in Wales and at a gay rights rally, where he is holding up a placard demanding equality on “the battlefield”."
InForum Blog by Sheila Liaugminas (Catholic; Independent; American; Conservative)
08 / 08 | August / 2010

Sheila goes on to note how the alleged de jure traitor became more and more frustrated. She also notes, that just like in the case of the Islamist special interests activist who shot up Fort Hood, the whistle blower in this case, had been open in his opposition to the US military, and openly in this case displayed allegedly: conduct which in US law was illegal. "Don't ask don't tell"- simply did away with questions of sexuality in recruitment surveys- required of troops: it did not decriminalize homosexuality in the military. However, no matter the amounts of awards she has won, Sheila misses a point: it was not simply a laxity of enforcement as regards open disobedience against the military via don't ask don't tell defiance.

The US military, like other institutions has vastly neglected the internet. Further, the Fort Hood case, makes it clear: very little at all is enforced by the very lax US military.

For America and its allies: the Wikileaks leak was a terrible scorpion sting against the Achilles Tendon, a tragedy, which aided the rest of the world: in accusations against America for a seemingly dirty war: not that less read media sources weren't reporting on such a war in any case.

The problem with such alleged radicals as this individual- lies not in their sexual orientation: which here is circumstantial, specific to this case, but in their alleged preparedness to destroy structures designed to save lives. The bigger problem, is that once again the US system never caught this individual. This is a problem for America, which has increasingly become more desperate as Obama leads war efforts into ever larger troop deployments.

Then again, this is only a problem for America and its allies: and the man if a traitor: is a traitor against America's military: after all: President Obama: said Wikileaks put American lives at risk: they likely also saved many non-American lives.

And transparency is no absolute virtue.

"Homosexuality" can also be a sign of past trauma- or of identity crises: the second of which may well have been why a soldier would allegedly betray their country for the sake of whatever cause. His alleged treachery against America, has certainly given the rest of the world much to speak of. It may cost American lives, but that is not so much a concern as how America appears to be fighting the war, it would be quite apt for a United Nations investigation to be launched now, as happened against North Korea, when they allegedly shot at a South Korean ship. Accusations of a trigger happy US army, which allegedly carries out many abuses: are certainly noteworthy, if accurate. Treachery is an internal matter for America, what the United States does with their alleged traitors is their business- so long as it is justly handled: this should not detract from the importance of any such accusations, especially if well documented.

What is noteworthy, is that once again, it has been shown: how lax and incompetent US intelligence appears to be. This is no less important than the fact that a basic outline of their war strategy has now been revealed, along with information that America's Islamist special interest cause enemies can now download for free.

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Family of woman who died after injury at Lourdes sue tour group

2010-07-28T04:55:00.001-07:00

Family of woman who died after injury at Lourdes sue tour group

Quick note by Marc Aupiais

HCPT: The Pilgrimage Trust and Disabled Together, is facing legal action after a reportedly (Telegraph) devout Roman Catholic woman in her 60's fell 4 feet, at Lourdes and allegedly broke her left leg three times and her right leg once in the fall. The woman was born with disability: Cerebral Palsy and had never worked in her life, she survived breast cancer and the death of her husband Ian Mitchell, but widowed Patricia Mitchell, died shortly after the ill fated trip according to the UK Telegraph.

According to HCPT, the matter is being dealt with by their insurers currently, and therefore they have decided not to comment yet.

Patricia Mitchell had on several occasions visited Lourdes, in hope of healing.

Editorial advice:

It is always advisable to be accompanied on any Pilgrimage by relatives or close family, especially if something happens, or where one's needs and interests may be in danger, often pilgrims are short changed in what they get, or expected to survive sub standard or not luxurious conditions. Whether it is so that the group HCPT was negligent or not, our service has often uncovered dangerous bad elements in Catholic groups, such as that of corruption, pseudo-Catholicism or inadequate service. It is always important to insure one gets taken care of, and not to select any group or trust a group simply because they offer pilgrimages, or claim to be Catholic, or seem similar in culture to one's own. Most importantly, one must always be accompanied by people who have their best interests at heart when in any vulnerable situation, including when seeking medical treatment. A nurse assessed the deceased before she left to return to Great Britain / The United Kingdom, and said she had sustained no injuries, British Doctors claimed her legs were broken, and feared an urgent need to amputate, though there does not seem to have been any amputation.

in reference to:

"HCPT: The Pilgrimage Trust and Disabled Together"
- Cerebral palsy sufferer broke both legs on 'healing pilgrimage' - Telegraph (view on Google Sidewiki)

Quick Note: USA Supreme Court did not permit Vatican to be sued

2010-06-30T00:15:00.000-07:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa / Va-Browser)

|Download the Audio of this article|

Quick Note Article by Marc Aupiais

|Quick notes are not as researched as articles if researched at all|

Phil Lawler of Catholic Culture, has noted that media headlines that the USA (United States of America) Supreme Court has allowed the Vatican (Vatican City State/Holy See) to be sued de jure (by right of law), are incorrect. Instead it chose not to decide on the matter as yet, a slightly different move.

Here are the more that obvious results, and I may note that in South African Law, at least with the Anglican church in Province of the Church of Southern Africa, Diocese of Cape Town v CCMA et al, it was found that the priest was not even an employee of the diocese:

"By declining to hear the case, the Supreme Court did deal a minor legal setback to the Vatican, which had sought to have the case summarily dismissed. But the Oregon court’s ruling—which the Supreme Court let stand—only gives plaintiff the opportunity to argue that the Pope and the Vatican can be included as defendants. That argument is far from resolved.

In their effort to include the Pope as a defendant, the plaintiff faces an uphill struggle. The Foreign Sovereign Immunity Act protects the Holy See from liability unless the plaintiff can demonstrate that the priest who abused him was acting as an employee of the Vatican. By any of the normal legal standards—who signed his paycheck, who was his direct supervisor, who gave his assignments—the priest was working for the diocese, not the Vatican. Any effort to draw a connection between diocesan policies and Vatican directives would run into a further obstacle: the historical (and very prudent) reluctance of the American courts to become involved in the internal affairs of a religious body.

Even if an American court did give plaintiffs the right to take testimony from the Pope, the Pope would not be bound by that ruling. The Pope is not subject to American law-- nor to any other system of civil law. He is sovereign; in Vatican City he is the law.

Bottom line: If an American plaintiff takes testimony from the Pope, it will be because the Pope chose to give testimony—not because a court compelled it."

Phil Lawler, Catholic Culture (Catholic; Independent; American) 29 / 06 | June / 2010

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Belgian police violate archbishops' graves in sex abuse scandal investigation

2010-06-26T01:50:00.000-07:00

(Va-Browser / Catholic Watchdog South Africa dual article)

Article by Marc Aupiais

The Associated Press among others has reported on a raid of graves, a former archbishop's residence and other incidences, in what increasingly appears to be an international incident between the Vatican City State or Holy See, and the government of Belgium.

Tombs were in the opinion of the Vatican: violated (mouse over for details), and confidential information given the Roman Catholic church by victims of sex abuse now in their 60s and 70s and promised confidentiality: were in the perspective of the Vatican, stolen, by agents of the Belgian government, in a Vatican shocking: police raid purporting to be investigating sex abuse in the Roman Catholic Church. Says CNA, 30 police members sealed off the residence of a retired Archbishop who is a Cardinal, in an investigation where documents and a personal computer were seized.

The raid was likely in connection with allegations against the Cardinal, Godfried Danneels, now retired, which to quote the Wall Street Journal:

"Belgium's Godfried Danneels, a retired cardinal who was once a contender for the papacy, was allegedly informed in the 1990s that Bishop Roger Vangheluwe, now 73, had molested a young man. Monsignor Vangheluwe admitted to the abuse last week, and Pope Benedict XVI accepted his resignation Friday.

The Dutch-language daily De Standaard reported on Friday that two former priests had personally informed Cardinal Danneels, 77, about Bishop Vangheluwe's abuse several times"

Former Archbishop of Mechelen-Brussel: Godfried Danneels's documents and personal computer were taken, but police have yet to explain why, and the Archbishop was not questioned. The Police did mention that it related to sex abuse allegations, but if this refers to those made as reported by the Wall Street Journal, in late April, then it may be seen as odd that the police took so long to come down on an alleged co-conspirator, surely some may note then: justice delayed is justice denied, if guilty, the former Archbishop would have had plenty of time to dispose of any evidence of conspiracy.

An outraged and livid Vatican summoned the Belgian ambassador to the Holy See to convey its utmost fury over the raids, especially as two graves were violated. The Belgian Ambassador to the Holy See has since requested a meeting with the Vatican's foreign minister.

The Vatican once again stated its support for seeking "justice and amends" (AP) for victims, but expressed dismay that statements received from victims of sex abuse with a promise of confidentiality were so roughly and in their view unjustifiably seized by the state of Belgium.

Archbishop Andre-Joseph Leonard, of Mechelen-Brussel, and Bishop of Belgium, Military, compared the reasoning of police to conspiracies of fictional crime novels and the slander of the Da Vinci Code.

Godfried Danneels, allegedly has a chequered history when it comes to acting via evil to achieve good, reportedly advising [reference] that unchaste men in Africa wear condoms despite the prohibition in the bible and the Dogma of the church- against masterbation, as intrinsically evil.

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Republicans filibuster premature Democrat attempt to discuss financial reform in USA Senate

2010-04-27T06:10:00.000-07:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa; c.f. Fox News Radio (Conservative; Secular; American; Independent, but some link it to Republican beliefs) 26 / 04 | April / 2010 (The 5 minute news summary has since been updated); Radio Vaticana (Catholic; Hierarchical with relative independence; Vatican based) 27 / 04 | April / 2010 )

|Download/Stream the Audio of this Article|

|External Note: Republicans fear more bailouts, of the scope of those of Obama and of Bush.|

Article by Marc Aupiais

Title / Heading: Republicans filibuster premature Democrat attempt to discuss financial reform in USA Senate

Financial reform is thought to be Barack Obama’s Democrats’ number one priority, as the approval ratings of the US president have dipped to and even below the psychological 50% mark. Unemployment is just below 10%, and with passing of controversial healthcare legislation without any Republican support, despite mass public concerns, and without much of the vital explanations media believed were due to the public, Obama and his Democrats have much to worry about at the November polls, especially with recent iconic Republican wins in by-elections. One of the Republican wins has insured that unilateral financial reform has been filibustered in Yesterday’s procedural Senate vote. The reform is hoped by some Democrats to be a platform to garner support for Democrats via a focus on helping small rural business, and other reforms which could win Democrats votes in November. Republicans have also noted support for reform, but with some slight alterations to the bill, which they see as necessary.

The Democrats, Yesterday, had 57 votes on their side for the financial reform, while 41 Republican side nay votes opposed a proposal in the American Upper House of Parliament, to open debate on the matter; this was enough in the procedural vote to prevent thus far, financial reform, under the current Democrat proposal.

The Republicans are also concerned to insure financial reform goes through, especially as around two thirds of Americans reportedly are in favour of reforming the financial sector, after the recent aftermath of the hot-point of the financial crisis, and given the bail-outs during the Republican Bush, and Democrat Obama Administrations: of firms which otherwise, in ordinary capitalism, would have failed.

Their concerns relate to small but vital segments of the bill. They believe that the federal government could be over-reaching, and would prefer certain details of what they see as a complex issue to be ironed out more carefully. Despite this, their negotiators have reported to media that they are close to a solution. Fox news, a popular news service in America, accused by some of a sympathy towards the Republican cause has said that it is unlikely the Republicans will delay for much longer, due to a desire to garner the support of public opinion ahead of November elections.

Republican efforts at stricter financial regulations, pushed by Republican John McCain and others: during the 1990’s were blocked by Democrats, and it would seem unlikely for the bill to pass without Republican support, since Kennedy was replaced with Brown: as a representative in the Senate from Massachusetts, once a Democrat stronghold.

While both sides have claimed that they are close to a negotiated solution, the Democrats attempted, Yesterday: to push the bill forward for discussion prior Republican satisfaction, in a move similar to the unilateral overhaul of healthcare pushed through by the Democrats, and in the unilateral manner Barack Obama has pushed through legislation in: for much of his presidency. This despite promises of discussion and at attempting bi-partisan efforts during campaigning against his then Republican rival John McCain. Barack Obama has speeches set up in multiple areas (ending in a spot in Illinois), in order to garner more public support for the overhaul.

The question is whether Republicans will gain their concessions on details they believe should change, before the bill is either voted through or before the though highly unlikely, possible shelving of the legislation. The Democrat position seems to be aiming for a Democrat bill to pass, with as few of the Republic concessions within it as possible. Republicans could make an embarrassment for Obama before November polls, but have much to risk given high public support for financial reform, but also given the cost to public confidence, if they pass an inadequate bill, or are seen as a non-issue, or as betraying their ideals as regards Wall Street and other issues of importance to conservative voters: in the Senate.

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New York Times alleged to have defamed pope

2010-04-22T10:29:00.000-07:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa)

Article by Marc Aupiais

One of the best sources on British Roman Catholicism Telegraph Blogs' Editor: Damien Thompson has an interesting letter to quote, on alleged bad reporting on the pope:

Hat-tip to the Just B16 blog for this letter sent to The New York Times by Prof John Coverdale, professor of law at Seton Hall University School of Law, New Jersey. It wasn’t accepted for publication, you’ll be astonished to learn. Here it is:
Like many other people, I have felt in recent weeks that some news outlets have unfairly targeted Pope Benedict XVI in connection with sexual abuse by priests.
In part this is a question of emphasis, with daily coverage of what may or may not have been minor mistakes in judgment decades ago and almost no attention to the major efforts Pope Benedict has made to remedy what is undeniably a horrible situation.
With some frequency, however, I have observed what strikes me as deliberate distortion of the facts in order to put Pope Benedict in a bad light. I would like to call your attention to what seems to me a clear example of this sort of partisan journalism: Laurie Goodstein and Michael Luo’s article “Pope Put Off Move to Punish Abusive Priest” published on the front page of the New York Times on April 10, 2010. The story is so wrong that it is hard to believe it is not animated by the anti-Catholic animus that the New York Times and other media outlets deny harboring.
Canonical procedure punishes priests who have violated Church law in serious ways by “suspending” them from exercising their ministry. This is sometimes referred to as “defrocking.” (According to Webster’s New Collegiate Dictionary to “defrock” is to deprive of the right to exercise the functions of an office. )
A priest who has been suspended may request that he be released from his vows of celibacy and other obligations as a priest. If granted, this petition to be “laicized” would leave the former priest free to marry. Laicization (which is altogether different from defrocking and which may apply to a priest who has committed no crime but simply wishes to leave the priesthood) is not further punishment. It is something a priest who has already been punished by being suspended might well desire, as do some priests who have committed no crime and who have not been suspended..
The priest who is the subject of the article had already been punished by being suspended long before his case reached Rome. He asked to be laicized. Cardinal Ratzinger delayed his laicization not his “defrocking” as the article incorrectly says. He had been defrocked years earlier when he was suspended from the ministry. All of this is clear without reference to outside sources to anyone who knows something about Church procedure and reads the article with sufficient care. It is anything but clear, however, to a normal reader.
My complaint here is not that the article misuses the word “defrock” but rather that by so doing it strongly suggests to readers that Cardinal Ratzinger delayed the priest’s removal from the ministry. Delaying laicization had nothing to do with allowing him to continue exercising the ministry, from which he had already been suspended.
Not only does the article fail to make these distinctions, it positively misstate the facts. Its title is “Pope Put off Move toPunish Abusive Priest.” [italics added] It describes Cardinal Ratzinger’s decision as involving whether the abusive priest “should be forced from the priesthood” [italics added]. Even a moderately careful journalist would have to notice that all of this is incompatible with the fact (reported in the second paragraph of the article) that the priest himself had asked for what Cardinal Ratziner delayed.
Had the facts been reported accurately, the article would have said that the priest was promptly punished by being removed from the ministry for his crimes, but that when he asked to be reduced to the lay state, which would have given him the right to marry within the Church, Cardinal Ratzinger delayed granting the petition. That, of course, would hardly have merited front page treatment, much less a headline accusing the Pope of “Putt[ing] off Move to Punish Abusive Priest.”
The second half of the article reports that the priest later worked as a volunteer in the youth ministry of his former parish. This is obviously regrettable and should not have happened, but he was not acting as a priest (youth ministers are laymen, not priests).
A careful reader who was not misled by the inaccuracies in the first part of the article would, of course, realize that his volunteering as a youth minister had no factual or legal connection with Cardinal Ratzinger’s delaying the grant of laicization. The article does not say in so many words that it did, but an average reader might well conclude that there was some connection when he is told that “while the bishop was pressing Cardinal Ratzinger to defrock Mr. Kiesle, the priest began volunteering in the youth ministry of one of his former parishes.”
Any one of these errors might be due to carelessness, but their cumulative effect, coupled with the decision to make this front page news accompanied by a two column photo of Cardinal Raztinger’s signature, strongly suggests to me that something worse than carelessness is involved. I urge you to look into whether some major news outlets have indeed been engaged in a campaign to vilify the Pope and into whether their desire to do so has caused them to slip below minimum standards of professional journalism.

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Saturday Star: publishes naked photos

2009-01-25T01:04:00.000-08:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa)

Article by Marc Aupiais

The Saturday Star, part of the IOL group of newspapers; has taken it upon themselves to air naked photos appearing in Marie Claire Magazine: whether to highlight the controversy, or anger over the fact that celebrity nudes are being published, to "Raise awareness" of woman abuse, or to sell newspapers: is unclear. What is clear, is that the women and men are not bruised, and while many likely object to the fact that arousing pictures are now in the reach of children doing grade 2 newspaper projects, the question as to why the IOL newspaper chose to air the pictures in their news, without any real warning for sensitive, um... viewers: is unclear.

If they had noted in front that they had naked pictures on page nine, wait: maybe they simply should not have shown naked pictures in the first place: really, did Marie Claire contact them for this? Why are there naked pictures in a popular newspaper. Surely, Marie Claire: cannot be as circulated as the star?

In either case: It does seem distasteful. It is almost as though: since the government shifted from denying the existence of HIV/AIDS: to telling children in Junior school, and younger: to wear condoms, on television: that now; sexual images are acceptable; after all: how else does one sell those nasty condoms?

Previous funding from the Marie Claire campaign went to funding the Treatment Action Campaign(TAC): noted for anger towards government in previous times: and for their rabid support of condoms.

Studies in America: have shown condoms less effective than Modern Natural Family methods: at preventing childbirth, more than that: abstinence training at schools: has shown more effective in preventing teenage pregnancy, and disease: than condom spurges. Children as young as twelve can get seemingly, if I remember correctly, and if the stats available online are correct: free government abortions, and also contraception, in South Africa.

Kissing someone under the age of 16 (Which is why age of girlfriends is important), is considered statutory rape in South Africa: and is punishable by a prison sentence. Getting contraception for personal use, is allowed at this age, and much younger, as with the use of government abortion facilities free of charge: to you, not those paying their taxes: who fund your abortion.

Venezuela; Latin America: Catholic Embassy tear bombed, government supporters suspected

2009-01-23T07:41:00.000-08:00

(Social Justice South Africa; Catholic Watchdog South Africa; c.f. Zenit News 22 / 01 / 2009 ; Archive : 25 / 10 / 2008; 13 / 11 / 2008; Zenit News 10 / 07 / 2007 ; 19 / 11 / 2007; CWNews 13 / 05 / 2006 ; Catholic Culture 21 / 11 / 2008; all sources quoted, are catholic, and independent; The First Two are South African; the Rest are American (USA) Based)

Article by Marc Aupiais

The Vice President of the EU (European) Parliament: Mario Mauro , who is also the representative on religious persecution in the: Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, has condemned an attack on a Catholic Nuncio: which is the technical name for a Vatican Embassy, to a political power. The Nuncio, was in Venezuela, and government supporters, are: due to a past record, possibly: those responsible.

Venezuela is ruled by the socialist: Hugo Chávez, who has had clashes with the church. During Last year's November 23rd elections, Hugo Chávez's socialist supporters, were accused of intimidating Catholics. Hugo Chávez, wants a completely socialist state, and has made controversial comments on the world stage. Tensions, between Hugo Chávez, who originally tried to create a coup, but later was elected, and the Bishops, in Venezuela; are high: due to his anti-life policies, education issues, possible interference with church structures, and accusations of an alleged plot against Hugo Chávez, made against the Bishops in the country. All of this and actual violence has created a tough circumstance.

The Attack is not the first, and previous experience means that the socialist government's supporters, and factions close to the president, called radical, and considered to have religious intolerance; by EU Parliament Vice President: Mario Mauro; who is also the representative on religious persecution, to the: Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe. Mario Mauro condemned the attacks, saying that any future incidences would only make things worse for Venezuela, where he claims that fundamental rights (He uses the word "Liberties"): are consistently being scraped into non-existence and stolen from citizens.

He noted his solidarity with the Catholic community in the country, where this is not the first attack on the church. Previously, also: government supporters have attacked this embassy, somewhat creating suspicions, that they have something to do with the recent tear bombings!

Obama Inauguration, now its happened, still+- 4 times that of Bush? It was thought to be more than ten times that of Bush!

2009-01-21T01:29:00.000-08:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa)

Article by Marc Aupiais

Before it happened, it was estimated that it would cost 5 00 000 000 US$ (Five Hundred million United States of America: Dollars), this probably included the concert and train journey, and use of Lincoln's bible.

Other sources, now are putting it at about 160 000 000 US$ (One hundred and Sixty Million United States of America: Dollars), or so. In fact, this probably excludes these other costs, which we received at the time. The estimate we published, was just that, an estimate, we thought to also show how close estimates were, the estimate, was from an external source, however, it included things, seemingly expensively not included in other estimates. We therefore do not immediately discount it.

This is still about four times that of the Bush inauguration, which was criticized at the time, as extravagant.

And that is the point, we are enjoying to make again.

Obama Inauguration to cost about 10 times Bush's, in a time of economic crisis

2009-01-20T03:13:00.000-08:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa; c.f. InForumBlog (Catholic; Independent; American) 19 / 01 / 2009)

Article by Marc Aupiais

When Bush did his cool +-40 million or so US Dollar inauguration, the press thought it could better be spent: not so with the cool +-500 000 000 (Five Hundred Million) Barak Hussein Obama inauguration. Despite a time of economic Crisis, two wars, and so much more: Obama, who voted to kill Abortion survivors, via infanticide,and hardly spoke up on the tragedy in the Gaza Strip, except to bolster his own image, Obama, wants to go in in "Style", insisting on using Lincoln's bible, and other extravagances. As could have been predicted, by his cool political response when the Financial Crisis came out, Obama: is proving to be anything but prudent with American money.

Bush recently set aside January 18th, as a day for the sanctity of human life, including the lives of the unborn. Bush, while being against abortion, and cloning, and liked, apparently by the Dalli Llama, given special treatment by pope Benedict XVI, also went against the Vatican on the Iraq war (Second gulf War), resulting in a massacre of Christians, by militants, and also: has been implicated in removing privacy, and in possible human rights abuses.

Bush's own inauguration, was considered a bit extravagant. The question as to why Obama throws such a party, when his people will starve all the more, and why the homeless in the area have been force to move; is hardly being asked very much, if at all: in much of the mainstream media.

Atheists don't get away with intrusive, unprovable bus ads in Genoa, Italy

2009-01-17T22:44:00.000-08:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa; c.f. Reuters (Independent; British; Secular) 17 / 01 / 2009)

Article by Marc Aupiais

Atheist bus ads, denying the existence of God, without proving their unfounded views, which were set to hit the Italian city of Genoa, have been banned: the advertising company; due to a violation of advertising ethics: withdrew, and conservative politicians objected. Italy is largely Catholic.

In Washington DC, America; ads were allowed. In London, Britain, they were used, but these, those in Britain, are possibly to be challenged: as the atheists cannot prove their advert is accurate. In Barcelona, in secularist, socialist, anti-religious Spain: the adverts also appeared on buses.

Paris, France; EU; Europe; Eurasia: Catholics stand up for their Jewish compatriots

2009-01-14T23:12:00.000-08:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa; c.f. Reuters (Secular; British; Independent) 13 / 01 / 2009)

Article by Marc Aupiais

French Catholics, and Muslims, and Jewish people, with the backing of French President Nikolas Sarkozy, have stood up, asking for calm, and order: due to firebombings, and other negatives backlash effects, of the latest Israeli offense on the Gaza Strip. Some groups blame the violence, on racism already present, in which: Rabbi's already, often could not go out on the streets, wearing their uniforms: and say, that this recent violence, has only been, basically a cover and excuse, to attack one's compatriots. Recently, a Jewish Rabbi, in Italy, use a publication, of the recently infamous Jesuits, in order to attack the papacy. The Pope postponed the canonization of a previous pope 9World War II pope), until further evidence of his innocence, can be released from archives; and has been the target of attacks from supporters of a major Israeli party. Statements, not endorsed, and seemingly apposed by the papacy, by a Cardinal Cardinal Renato Martino: of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace (Vatican City;Europe / Israel: Pope and Cardinal on "Concentration Camp" Statement of official 09 / Jan / 2009), about The Gaza Strip, being like a Concentration camp, have ignited the anger of some Jews, the ame Cardinal, later, also attacked hamas terrorist attacks: the acts of firing Rockets: into Israel. The Pope, in contrast, has condemned to violence on both sides, and prayed for peace.

Since Vatican II, and during the Second World War, Catholics: have done allot to protect the Human Rights, of those who are Jewish, along with protection of many other minority groups' rights, throughout the world. Recently, the Vatican apposed the Sterilization of Gypsies in Europe, and the bishops in Northern Ireland, have condemned the violence done by the terrorist grouping : IRA, in Northern Ireland. Racism, is considered the sin of Superstition, in Catholic beliefs, and wrong.

This stance against the persecution of Jewish people in France, in a sort of "Collective Punishment", is against wrong, and wrongs which are rightly apposed. While Israel, has as a state been accused of extremely disproportionate force, in response to the unjustifiable terrorist attacks on Israel, by terrorist grouping Hamas (Acronym for: "Islamic Resistance Movement"): those supporting the rights of the Jewish people, or else supporting their war efforts, throughout the world: in counter-marches: have been seemingly remarkably well behaved. Almost every march in support of the terrorist grouping Hamas: or at least, a large proportion of such, has either involved the burning of flags, or else violence, or violence after the fact.

Canada, was recently, one of the only, of about thirty states, on a certain council, to vote against condemning Israel: European states abstained from such vote, and America called that council biased.

Catholic stances against the conflict in the Gaza Strip, so far as the official stances go: have always been careful to condemn the violence, but not ignore the situation, whereby it was started by Terrorist attacks on Israel, and whereby Israeli counterstrikes have also caused massive collateral damage. Condemning one side, without the other: can result in backlash against more innocents, as has happened in France, and likely elsewhere.

Some time ago, France saw violent riots, by Muslim immigrants, which saw car burning, it is not unexpected, that an immigrant population, which did such: would also; take to firebombing French civilians. The result of condemnations, such as those by the South African government: focussed only on Israel: is only further violence. Even if the ANC, communist affiliated, South African Government, much like the Socialist Spanish Governments's: Spanish Socialists has condemned largely one-sided-ly; this does not mean that this sprouting of violence is due to them: but it certainly has something to do with the choice of some people to make similar statements.

Notably absent in these appeals, is the "Union of French Islamic Organisations (UOIF)", which has called for further protests against Israel. Militants also, regularly in Strasbourg, where a mayor joined calls for calm: hold protests.

In Italy, a group of Islamic Protesters, recently stopped in front of a Catholic Cathedral, and then a train station, bowing down to pray. This caused anger in the more conservative sections of the Italian parliament, with claims: that if Catholics were to pray the rosary in front of Mecca: they'd "be" shot for such an act.

Jewish groups: in different countries, have complained of a rise in antisemitism: probably largely caused by a one sided; out of context portrayal of the conflict: by many people. Just as in the bible: words carry life and death: by words, rockets were launched into Israel, by indisputable terrorists, and by the same part of the body, Israel returned fire. By words, also: horrid, and unjustifiable attacks on those of Jewish descent, are being carried out. It is not only the Catholic Church, and religious leaders, and France: and others, who should be condemning this. Other nations, also: should be taking a stand: the Hatred, maintaining this war, which is the cause, according to pope Benedict XVI: cannot be viewed as purely within the walls of Gaza, and Israel. This hatred is international, and seen, or fed in every statement, which is disproportionate on this situation.

Catholic Watchdog South Africa: US pro-abortion: "American Civil Liberties Union": sues federal government: for government funding apposing human traf

2009-01-13T06:42:00.000-08:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa; c.f. Reuers (Secular; British Based; Independent; we don't endorse this article) 12 / 01 / 2009; c.f Creative Minority Report 17 / Jan / 2008; 17 / Jan / 2008; 06 / June / 2007; 07 / January / 2009; 13 / Jan / 2009; c.f. Archive: Philippines, Asia, Eurasia: Bishops draft own bill against contraception happy liberals! Recently after attempts to instill a 2 child limit on the nation 20 / 11 / 2008; Americas Abortion News- Insurance must pay up to help abortion, all restrictions to be lifted, state to fund genocide against unborn- This is the change Obama, who voted for allowing infanticide in failed abortions- Promised quite publicly 08 / NOV / 2008 ; BBC World News (Secular; British; Governmental) on what Genocide is 10 / Dec / 2001; UN on Genocide 12 / Jan / 1951)

Article By Marc Aupiais

Known for stances: that people having sex in public toilets: expect privacy, support for homosexuality, abortion, contraception, and polygamy: the ACLU ("American Civil Liberties Union"): has taken to attacking a US government contract, which employed the USCCB (United States Conference of Catholic Bishops), to help protect the rights of those victim to human trafficking, via a court case against the US federal government. The employment, was allegedly, via US $ 6 000 000 (United States Dollars: Six Million), in grants: which where given between 2006, and 2008: towards the fighting of human trafficking, a field in which the church has been quite involved in: in fighting human trafficking that is.

The Pro-Abortion, ACLU: whose other cases involve, a push to redefine the word "couple", to refer to a group, instead of two: whose antics: have at times caught the ire of those really supporting human rights: claim that the fact that the Catholic Church, has stated that they won't fund abortions, and contraception for those involved in Human trafficking, is against the "rights" of those in human trafficking. Representation of the church: says that the Bishops Conference, is the best suited organization, in America, to deal with victims of human trafficking. It might also be noted, that abortion, defined as an intrinsic evil, in catholic dogma, and the ethics, of many: is a separate issue from Human Trafficking. Surely, supplying condoms to those escaping human trafficking: is not as effective, if effective at all, as getting them out of such: in fact, it seems to send the entirely wrong message, as with all condom campaigns: which are largely unsuccessful, as compared other programs: at curbing the spread of disease.

Recently, an American hospital, threw a woman's baby out, literally with the trash, by the time she'd returned, to claim it for a funeral: it was no longer available: having been dumped. The hospital is using as its defense that the child was allegedly "Stillborn"; the Mother contests that the baby was alive, they even brought a blanket for it. If the baby was stillborn, under the law of the State of New Jersey, the child is considered not a person, but an object: whereby the hospital would by law: get away with throwing the baby out (CMR 07 / January / 2009).

American President Elect, Barak Hussein Obama, known for his voting for euthanasia, in the case of failed abortions, plans to remove parental consent, and just about all restrictions on Abortion, in all American states, including forcing insurance companies to pay for abortive pills, and US taxpayers to foot abortion bills, this is part of a promise he made to American Abortionists, "Planned Parenthood", who were implicated, in a situation last year, where their international arm, along with the US Population Control department, and some UN representation: they attempted to enforce, via legislation: which could be defined as an article 2, section d, genocide (according to the UN definition of Genocide*), on the Philippines( c.f. Philippines, Asia, Eurasia: Bishops draft own bill against contraception happy liberals! Recently after attempts to instill a 2 child limit on the nation 20 / 11 / 2008) . Laws, looked into, and promoted by outgoing President Bush, which prevent doctors, from being forced to perform abortions, in the US, are some of the things, which US President Elect, Obama, will overturn, if his word is to be taken on the matter. The fact that many of Mr Obama's appointments to political office appear to be motivated, via their ideological beliefs: has concerned many people. Allot of his appointments, appear to be based on candidates pro-abortion stance: as he plans to front the biggest push for the abortion industry, ever to hit America. "Planned Parenthood", are among those who seem most overjoyed at the promises Obama gave them, "Planned Parenthood": who already teach sex education in schools, despite being the major American abortion firm, they are, are expected to get more legislative support: for their conquering of the Sex education system in America: despite statistics, showing that more students who are taught by their program: have teenage pregnancies, that those taught by other programs.

*

"In the present Convention, genocide means any of the following acts committed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group, as such:

(a) Killing members of the group;

(b) Causing serious bodily or mental harm to members of the group;

(c) Deliberately inflicting on the group conditions of life calculated to bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part;

(d) Imposing measures intended to prevent births within the group;

(e) Forcibly transferring children of the group to another group."

(UN on Genocide 12 / Jan / 1951)

c.f.
http://www.unhchr.ch/html/menu3/b/p_genoci.htm

Founding Editor of First Things: Fr. Richard John Neuhaus: Dies

2009-01-09T22:48:00.000-08:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa)

Article by Marc Aupiais

Despite prayers, from around the would, Fr. Richard John Neuhaus, has died of cancer. I received this in my Subscription to Trinity Communications: today. First Things, was an inter-religious organization: which truly tried to contribute towards inter-religious harmony. His efforts will be missed.

I have not read it, but Catholic Culture pays tribute to him here:
http://www.catholicculture.org/commentary/blog.cfm?id=338

And others: Here:
http://www.catholicculture.org/news/headlines/index.cfm?storyid=1601

I know I enjoyed his magazine, although I do not have time to read it anymore (I have been focused on Catholic news, and Catholic sources, studies, and other such opportunities), and his efforts were famous, and well-known. I think he was a good man. He died in 2009, having been born in 1936.

82 Year old allegedly defrauds Catholics

2009-01-08T22:45:00.000-08:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa; c.f. Reuters (Secular; Independent; British) 08 / 01 / 2009; 08 / 01 / 2009)

Article by Marc Aupiais

An 82 year old man allegedly advertised a non-existent investment scheme in Catholic papers throughout America. He was charged with mail fraud when his accounts were reviewed.

This is one of two such alledged schemes halted on Thursday: in the backwash after charges were brought against US billionaire: Bernard Madoff: who allegedly defrauded +- 50 million US Dollars.

Article

(Reuters is a secular; British; Independent news organization)

http://www.reuters.com/article/pressReleasesMolt/idUSTRE5076UI20090108

http://www.reuters.com/article/topNews/idUSTRE50787K20090108

Ireland: Sex abuse investigation continues, bishop defiant, despite comments by prelates

2009-01-08T10:06:00.000-08:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa; Social Justice South Africa; c.f. Catholic Culture (Catholic; American; Independent) 07 / Jan / 2009; South African Catholic (affiliated)06/01/2009 )

Article by Marc Aupiais

The Irish government is expected to expand a probe into sexual abuse by clergy, and the alleged mishanding of this: by certain clergy in Ireland: icluding one bishop: Bishop John Magee of the Diocese of Cloyne, who has been slated in the press: as not obeying church, or state suggestions: and whose actions have been questioned by two prelates:

Cardinal Sean Brady of the Archdiocese of Armagh, and Archbishop Diarmuid Martin of the Archdiocese of Dublin.

The Latter prelate: has said that it is up to Bishop: John Magee; whether or not to resign, but a news survey found many thought he had lost the moral high ground needed for the job.

Government plans to further the investigation, have met a mixed reaction. Those supporting the embattled Bishop of Cloyne: have accused an investigating body: commissioned by the church to look into the issue: of falsely slandering the bishop.

The Catholic church in Ireland, apparently: is making great leaps towards accountability, having recently: published documents on sexual abuse cases.

Cases in the Catholic church, are some of the lowest in the world, the reason why these have warranted so much public attention, is that these were often mishandled on a local level. Those objecting, were quieted.

Since Pope Benedict XVI has entered office: his public apology: has been mirrored throughout the world: including by a recent penance walk: by an Irish Priest, who wanted to walk for the reparation of his fellows: for their sin against God and church. Real progress: is now being made: towards quenching this, and other scandals: which have rocked the western world.

Benedict XVI: has always been famed for a diplomatic ability: recently epitomized in Liturgical changes: including the exclusion of the word ____ (The name of God: given to Abraham: and kept via verbal tradition) from public worship, for the Jews, and a return to a more direct translation of the Mass: to acomodate the SSPX: a group whose leaders, and founder are excommunicated.

Benedict XVI: is praised both for diplomacy, as well as for his symbolic, and practical combating of the sexual abuse scandal. The Irish Bishops, do not appear to be standing by the Bishop: John Magee, who has raised public anger.

They also: have not attempted a forced resignation: rather: they are leaving the situation in the hands of the Police, and of the Bishop, and Vatican.

The government recently asked: that all priests sign that they will obey child protection regulations. The Church itself agrees with this: and investigations, and findings: are by those commissioned by them.

A seeming move to transparency and openness: in Ireland: is a great improvement on this issue. In many parts of the world: priests, and bishops have joined a renewal: of teaching sound Catholic doctrine and ethics.

Benedict XVI: wants peace in Middle East

2009-01-06T11:32:00.000-08:00

http://southafricancatholic.blogspot.com/2009/01/pope-benedict-xvi-extremely-worried.html

Orissa, India: Top Indian court tells Orissa Officials: Protect Christian community, or Step down: Christians in the Areas have suffered a genocide

2009-01-06T10:57:00.000-08:00

(Social Justice South Africa; Catholic Watchdog South Africa; c.f. Catholic World News (Catholic; Independent) 06/01/2009)

Article by Marc Aupiais

India's top court has lamented: that it took +-50 000 people to flee their homes: before any protection to Christians: was given. Christians: who were raped, beaten up, murdered, and had possessions, and property: either stolen or burnt, have suffered "Ethnic Cleansing", Blitz, or Genocide: since Hinduist sectarians: have attacked them: blaming an assassination, of a radical leader: conducted by Maoist Rebels, on Christians: instead of on those claiming responsibility: and using this to springboard a genocide.

The Court: has demanded: that minority rights be protected: claiming that the government must either start to protect Christians, who still are endangered by roaming mobs of Hindu Nationalists, thought still to be operating, or these authorities should resign. It also lamented the fact: that no protection was afforded Christians: before the 50 000 or so fled their homes.

Nuns were arrested for crimes, such as kidnapping, of orphans in their care: which it was later proven (after arrests) that they did not do: and authorities have been accused of covering up negligence. Authority forces: have also been accused of standing by, doing nothing: as mobs attacked, beat up, stole from, and abused: minority Christians. Forced conversions: proved by violence to be done against fellow Christians: have occurred.

South Africa's the "Times" and "Sunday Times", has published several "letters" attacking Christians in India: in their articles section online. The paper: has regularly presented a certain view of Christianity.

India, recently fell foul of a terrorist attack, which authorities in India: are blaming on a Pakistani militant group.

Brisbane, Australia: St.Mary's still defiant: despite church saying it is not in communion with it

2009-01-05T22:08:00.000-08:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa; c.f. Catholic Culture 05/01/2009)

Article by Marc Aupiais

The Archbishop of Brisbane, Australia: John Bathersby: has warned that "Saint Mary's" Parish, in Southern Brisbane: is not in communion with the Universal Catholic church. This is at least a month since the issue started, he said that action would likely take place in late the time period between January, and early February, when he could adequately explain his action. Up to 900 people still attend the schismatic parish.

N Ireland Europe: Government to force church representatives to sign they will protect rights of children: due to repeated failure by church officials

2009-01-02T22:52:00.000-08:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa; BBC World News (Secular; Government; British)02/Jan/2008)

Article by Marc Aupiais

The structures of the Catholic church, while often well meaning: and possibly better prepared than other forms of hierarchy: are notoriously known for their lack of ability involving insuring accountability. The amount of times, one comes across abuse of human, or religious rights: by church structures: is frightening, at times: due to the same method of treating the church as a family, rather than a government, which is still employed, largely throughout much of the world. In Northern Ireland, even church regulations have not been listened to, by those involved in matters involving child protection: resulting in state authorities resorting to getting every church representative: from bishop to priest: to sign that they will adhere to Irish laws on the matter. A bishop implicated in such, has refused, at our last check to resign: against calls from the general public in the region.

While weaknesses in accountability in Catholic church structures: have repeatedly resulted in child abuse: and other, sometimes extremely serious abuses: in local churches throughout the world: the Vatican itself: has implemented screening for predators: of late, and unlike many of those actually involved: the Catholic Pope Benedict XVI: has openly apologized for a collective guilt he felt: resulting in many bishops conferences finally changing policies.

While abuses by clergy in the Catholic church: are markedly below that of other Christian religions: which do not demand celibacy: nor prevent priests from marrying: incompetence: and a lack of accountability; and abuse of authority within local church structures: has resulted in the comparatively lower rates of offense within the church: being mishandled: causing not only scandal, and embarrassment: but along with it: these attitudes which have allowed abuse: have also allowed for many other abuses: resulting largely in schisms such as SSPX, or the leaving of many Catholics from the church.

Further: while the percentage of Catholic priests who abuse minors: is perhaps one of the lowest of any groups, and according to statistics I heard, shortly after the scandal broke: perhaps less than half the percentage of Protestant pastors involved in such: those involved in offenses: were often simply moved around and never prosecuted. Perhaps: a good sign: is that often: the church is advising the contacting of civil authorities due to abuses: and I have since seen at least one letter: claiming that a priest had had his rights to practice as a priest: permanently revoked: and another of other harsh punishment being meted out: as should have been years ago.

What the SSPX, names as the result of Vatican II, or as a result of large abandoning of Latin: can largely be accounted to a lack of accountability in many local churches: as demonstrated by the manner in which the church: in countries where Catholic ethics are adhered to: has grown phenomenally.

As the cover-ups, and abuses are inherently, and utterly apposed to Catholic Ethics, teachings, and morality: it is safe to say: that these come not from the Catholic religion, which is considered, like the Papal line: to be a creation of God: but rather: from those groupings collectively, and individuals individually: who within it, have deviated from such: and from those others, who have allowed this deviation to go unpunished: in small and great.

Nor, can the religion's followers, or all structures themselves be blamed: many are champions of human rights: and the Catholic religion was created by a man: who himself triumphed human rights: including rights of those abused at the hands of an authority: also considered by Jesus: to have been created by God: but to also be fallible in everyday decisions: as the Catholic church also considers itself to be.

The Irish church has taken a great step, in releasing statistics on this issue, and the American church: has also begun to recover: however: the South African church's continued choice: not to implement canon law: as regards more minor offenses: such as heresy; or, and this one falls into the extremely serious category: the promotion of abortion (which is excommunicable, according to Canon law): in literature sold at churches, in such a manner: that priests advertise it: and the mass of Catholic faithful: believe this literature to be the voice of the local bishops : means that; while we have heard little, if any information on such other issues here: the structures: seem fully unprepared to deal with any such thing.

The fact, that we have such a reply, seemingly from Cardinal Napier: on the fact, he has no desire to act on the Southern Cross: issue; makes one wonder what should happen if such a scandal as sexual abuse of minors were to spread widely in South Africa.

Uganda, Africa:Catholic Churchgoers hacked to death: by Ugandan "Lord's Resistance Army": says Ugandan army

2008-12-29T09:31:00.000-08:00

(Social Justice South Africa; Catholic Watchdog South Africa; c.f. Bloomberg (Secular) 29/12/2008 BBC World News (Non-religious) 29/12/2008; News 24 (Secular) 28/12/2008)

Article by Marc Aupiais

Maybe 45, maybe 100 persons, in Uganda: have been hacked to death in a Catholic church, by the LRA: BBC reports that the Ugandan army reports: they were civilians, and non-combatants. The LRA has also been accused of other atrocities in the DRC ("Democratic Republic of Congo"), and is known for use of child soldiers, and has been accused of addicting child soldiers to drugs: to ensure loyalty. The reported attack was on the day after Christmas. Their leader is wanted to be tried for other atrocities: at the International Criminal Court!

The source quoted by BBC, appears to confirm, or at least agree with the press release by the Ugandan army. 45 bodies were found at the church itself, reports News 24, and Bloomberg. Over 185 are said to be dead in a three day blitz by the infamous rebels.

Authority of the bishop/ Merry Christmas

2008-12-25T01:50:00.000-08:00

While we have reported on issues in South Africa, involving local bishops, and this is of not just one department: every citizen of the church is rightly bound to obey the just commands of bishops: nor does this mean there is always any recourse or purpose in such things: the bishop is given his authority, and that is just, and so: we must still love our bishops, even when we disagree with them. I truly hope that heresy, and pen rebellion against the Vatican will no longer be advertised by Priests in South Africa, and sold in Parishes without having to answer for their attacks on the Vatican, and the Pro-life movement: however: we are still rightly obligated to be at peace with our bishops, and to love them for their goodness. God bless, and merry Christmas: to our viewers, and our Bishops, and clergy in South Africa! And please pray for our brothers and sisters at the Southern Cross: to stop attacking Vatican Decisions, as is well documented overseas.

Marc Aupiais

Editor of South African Catholic,

and the Scripturelink group of sites!

Response of Cardinal Napier on certain abuses in South Africa; including anti-Vatican sentiments aired in the Southern Cross

2008-12-25T01:36:00.001-08:00

Cardinal Napier was informed of a Priest who got his congregation to sing happy Birthday to a member of it, and got them to clap for success in a recent fund raiser: something directly condemned by Pope Benedict XVI: as meaning that all meaning of the mass is lost: the mass centering on the Eucharist:

"You are obviously French-speaking, and that is why some of the points that you make in your correspondence do not come across as clearly as they would need to. That is a problem that would best be overcome by first speaking to someone face to face and only then putting your thoughts to paper.
Regarding the issues that you raise, namely 1) cheering and clapping in the Church at Margate and 2) the orthodoxy of the Southern Cross’s editorial policy and practice.

1) Cheering and clapping in Church

The first thing to say is that anyone who attends Mass in St Peter’s Basilica in Rome, will know that it is quite common for the participants to cheer and applaud the Holy Father when he enters the Church for Mass, and that they do the same every time he mentions their country or nation in his message of greetings.

I had the good fortune to attend the African Synod held in St Peter’s in April-May 1994. The first thing that marked that Synod was the way in which Pope John Paul II accepted and even encouraged lively African style singing, which necessarily include ululating, cheering and clapping. I remember in particular that the choirs who sang at the opening and closing Masses used banjoes and drums among other instruments popular with African congregations.

The second element of good fortune that I attribute to the African Synod is proclamation of the principle of inculturation. Inculturation was introduced into Catholic thinking by Vatican II and was incorporated by the Holy Father in the post Synodal exhortation “Ecclesia in Africa”.

This important Church document sanctioned inculturation and then proceeded to spell out two criteria that were to be used to distinguish genuine from false inculturation. The first is “compatibility with the Gospel” and the second is “unity with the universal Church”.

So, the questions to be asked are: a) Is cheering and clapping incompatible with the Gospel? b) Does it break the unity of the particular Church with the universal Church?

I would say that in neither case does singing and clapping offend those two principles.

2) The orthodoxy of the Southern Cross

In this case I would argue that from time to time, and on given issues, editorial practice does not follow stated policy as closely as one would expect. At times there may be justifiable divergence of opinion, at other times it would seem that editorial independence is being given priority.

If you are a regular reader of the Southern Cross you will know that I have often expressed my concern at its anti-magisterial bias. I do not mean that it openly opposes Church teaching but like a nagging sore keeps on putting the world’s view rather than the Church’s. This is often done I would say rather by the choice of letter for publication rather than by direct editorial statements.

As you can see I am not a total fan of the Southern Cross, but I would not seek to shut it up. I would prefer to see ordinary Catholics take issue with its position by affirming their faith in letter that tell their faith stories. I am confident that these stories would reveal a reality that is very different from the reality which certain people are trying to present through the Southern Cross.

By the way, the parish of Margate is in the Diocese of Umzimkulu, and is in the capable hands of one of the best young priests in the country. He is very much in touch with me as Apostolic Administrator and together with the other members of the Presybterium of that Diocese is very involved in seeking way to ensure that the Mass is a lived experience of our faith in the Real Presence of Jesus Christ, which becomes actualized when we receive Holy Communion and carry over its effects into our daily life.

May I use this letter to offer you some advice, and I do so not to put you down, but to point you in the right direction, because I sense that you are genuinely concerned about your faith and the way your Church is living, teaching and passing it on.
“Try to be humble enough to see good in others, even when you don’t, or even can’t, agree with what you see them do or say”.
Why? Because it was the way Jesus interacted with the “sinners” of his time. It was the way he led them in great numbers to conversion them.
I am sure that a similarly humble, honest and compassionate approach will help you lead many more to conversion than your current approach, which falls more into the category of “hammering the heretics into orthodoxy.

With best wishes for a very Happy Christmas and a Peaceful New Year,

Cardinal Wilfrid Napier, OFMArchbishop of Durban"
Email from the cardinal's office to a private individual: confirmed by our organization!

It was then pointed out that it was not the letters in the Southern Cross, which have been internationally condemned by the esteemed Trinity Communications, known for their connection, and the used of these by EWTN. No response was given.

While at time of publishing, no response was given, and while we have great respect for the Cardinal, we still are looking into what can be done on these issues, which we have got evidence of. We would like to remind our readers, that the bishops are the true heirs of the Apostles. Whether we agree or disagree: we cannot create animosity towards these men: only try the best we are able to obey our church, our pope first, and and then our bishops and others in line with Canon law. Much of what the Cardinal says is well said, and based on the experiences of a servant of the universal church. Perhaps, in future, something may be done, perhaps not.

Madrid, Spain, EU, Europe: Secular Spanish socialists seal icey grip on Christmas: Nativity scene latest in crackdowns on any religous symbolism

2008-12-18T02:03:00.000-08:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa; c.f. IOL (Non-Religious) 18/12/2008; BBC World News (Secular) __/__/__; South African Catholic 17/12/2008)

Article by Marc Aupiais

Spain's socialist, and anti-religiously secularist government has done it again. Recently, a judge risked, and is contesting a three year jail term, and 18 year bar from practising, after refusing to give a child to a homosexual couple, desiring to adopt, despite the fact they were seen as incapable of being good parents. Other European persecution, includes the removal of many powers from Luxemberg's monarch: after he refused to legalize abortions. Spain itself, has forced the removal of crucifixes from public areas such as schools and universities, and is known for pro-abortion, pro-"homosexual" "Marriage" policies, and for socialist policies.

Now, when a state prosecutor erected a nativity scene in the prosecutors office, it was quite suddenly removed by a judge. No argument that Christmas was part of Spanish culture could prevent the removal.

Laws are being examined in Spain to further define what is implied by so-called "Separation of Church and State". Such policies, from their route in the French rebellion, have always had the obvious target of Catholicism, however the removal of power from a moral watchdog was aptly demonstrated in the Second World War, as was brought up, after a previously Fascist politician in Italy, accused the Vatican of not doing enough: despite Italy existing after militarially conquering the papal states (previous report 17/Dec/2008).

Islamic citizens in Spain, increasingly feel persecuted, as exemplified in the Madrid train bombings (c.f. BBC World News (Secular) __/__/__). Catholicism, however of late has borne the brunt of institutional attacks.

UN, New York: Defrocked, from his post as a Catholic Priest, personally by Pope John Paul II, for his post in a Marxist government:General Assembly President Fr. Miguel D'Escoto, now says he: "Receives" death threats after recently criticising USA and Israel!

2008-12-18T00:30:00.000-08:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa; c.f. Reuters (Secular) 18/12/2008; LifeSiteNews 05/DEC/2008; UN Declaration on Genocide __/__/__)

Article by Marc Aupiais

When part of a left leaning," Sandinista National Liberation Front" marxist government, which overthrew their predecessors, but then had elections about 5 years later: in his own nation, D'Escoto accused the US of butchering his Nation, during a war, since then he has called George W. Bush, recently given special privilages on a visit to the Vatican, the Spiritual heir of Reagan, whom he (as a marxist government official): had apposed.

Awarding two pro-abortion, pro-homosexuality advocates in the UN for “outstanding contribution to the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms” (LifeSiteNews 05/DEC/2008) earlier this year, there was no naming of these people as butcherers. This despite their actions being defined as genocide in the UN definition.

He has also accused the Israeli government of treating the Palestinians in their territory, in the same manner as South Africans were treated by the Protestant Apartheid Government, previously in power in South Africa. D'Escoto has now claimed he is receiving death threats: without mentioning the source: to which he is being subdued to needs for new security measures: by.

Israel's ambassador to the United Nations, however has since taken offense: she has said that this is all lies, aimed at getting her not to attend the anniversary of the "Universal Declaration on human rights".

Catholics are free to present their own oppinions within reason, that does not make these the views of the church, however, Fr D'Escoto, was personally removed from the priesthood for his position in a marxist government. In fact, Gabriela Shalev, Israel's ambassador, who the defrocked priest's spokesperson has been accusing of slander for her statements, is also taking this seriously. The UN itself is taking new measures, to protect the defrocked priest, however, he is not the first UN official to make an enemy of Israel, or the United States: nor does that mean that they will automatically be the source of alleged death threats. He has made such emnity, not be religious belief, but via his attacks on the western world. He is viewed as advantageous to those supporting extreme left positions, however: he was elected, only from amongst South American competition: in accorance with a moving seat, and his only role is as a mediator of debate in the house. He has been accused of being partisan.

Italy, EU, Europe: Italian Speaker of house (who entered politics as a Fascist) Tries to place blame of WWII attrocities on Catholic: In another attack by the Italian establishment on the church

2008-12-17T08:23:00.000-08:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa; c.f. BBC World News (Secular) 17/12/2008; Other Stories covering it listed by Google News (Secular) :accessed by us: 17/12/2008; See What We See News Archive 17/12/2008; The British "Times" (secular) 17/12/2008)

Article by Marc Aupiais

Gianfranco Fini, leader of what was once officially a "neo-fascist party" (BBC World News (Secular) 17/11/2008;The British "Times" (secular) 17/12/2008) "Alleanza Nazionale"(The British "Times" (secular) 17/12/2008) who BBC says droped his neo-Fascist agendas earlier in his career, in order to appeal to mainstream politics, has seemingly slipped back into old ways. As speaker of the Italian parliament, one of those parliaments in "Catholic" nations: in Europe: which has periodically of late passed laws hardly representative of a Catholic viewpoint, he now lays the blame for the deportion of the Jews, by the Fascists: to Nazi Germany: on the Vatican.

He says that the Vatican did not make any real effort to appose racial legislation, despite claims, aired in the article by the British "Times", that the Vatican made sharp condemnations of the laws.

Missing in his accusation, as "speaker" of the "Italian" "Parliament", is the fact the Italy exists, having militarially conquered the Vatican, and that it was a treaty by the Fascists during such rule of Italy's politics, when the Lateran treaty was created: confining the Vatican to what is now the country bearing its name. Also excluded are the many iniatives by the Pope of World War II, which: against established customs: caused Religious organizations of Catholics (such as nuns and others) on masse, especially religious organizations such as nunaries: to habor Jewish people.

Also missing is the fact that Vatican further condemnations, would have meant little at this time of persecution, the Vatican certainly could not have taken military action, what possible lack of action may be the source of the accusations is hard to immagine.

Italy had kicked Catholicism out of that role via force, as it still does, via voices such as those of that man. This seems another anti-catholic attack, and the source of it, in a party, once known for its fascism: is revealing. Placing guilt on those who don't object loud enough, or can't object as they would have desired: is a typical strategy of those attempting to throw guilt away from themselves. Still, if there were guilt there might have been some place for apology: there is none: Pope Benedict XVI assures us of this, and we will see it ourselves, when the Secret Archive of the time are made public to scholars in a few years time. Currently, they are being organized.

Middle East, Eurasia: Iraqi Genocide on Christians: will disabilize the region: Archbishop Louis Sako: Italy

2008-12-01T00:42:00.000-08:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa; c.f. CNA 28/11/2008)

Article by Marc Aupiais

An Archbishops has noted the disastrous effects of the genocide against Christians, by radical Islamics. He notes, that Christians flee kidnappings, killings, rapes, murders: human rights abuses perpetrated on them. This is disastrous for relations throughout the region. He clearly does not believe America, or the Iraqi administration controls Iraq, where Christians are second class, (even what seems to many, although the Bishop did not say this directly is by human rights standards treated as subhuman) citizens: "dhimmi".

He believes that foreign terrorists control the country. His language hints that: as though they were a rat infestation, Christians are persecuted, and hunted down: but really, are only a scapegoat for those seeking an Islamist state.

This information is from a conference on inter-religious dialogue: in Italy.

Thailand: Cardinal: catholics should follow conscience about anti-government protests, but not act in name of the church

2008-12-01T00:29:00.000-08:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa; c.f. UCAN News 28/11/2008)

Article by Marc Aupiais

A representative of the Church in Thailand, has informed media, that Catholics should follow their conscience about efforts to dispose the Thai government, however: they are not to act in the name of the church. These statements are in line with Catholic procedures.

In Thailand: protesters want a new administration, making allegations against the current one, and taking an airport by force.

Orissa, India, Asia: Christian Death Toll breaks 100 mark: 118 dead according to "reliable sources"

2008-11-26T02:54:00.000-08:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa; c.f. News 24 (secular)25/11/08)

Article by Marc Aupiais

Of about a 50 000 or so population which fled homes in Orissa, under heavy persecution for religious views: by Hindu Nationalist fundamentalists: 10 000 currently reside in internal refugee camps, into which attacks have been recorded as succeeding. According to News 24, at least 91 corpses have been identified, while another 27 are confirmed dead by what they deemed reliable sources.

The violence follows the assassination of a radically anti-Christian leader, who was killed by Maoist rebels. After his death, Hindu Extremists: used this as fuel on which to intensify persecution of Christians. Training camps for millitia have been set up, and recruiting of anti-Christian millitia continues. The Indian Government has been accused by sources on the ground of a mass cover-up, and of negligence, over the entire situation. A major Hindu political party also attacked the papacy for prayers for peace in Orissa, using a classical power game: claiming that India is "sovereign", as though this extended to some right to kill others, or watch them die.

Violence in Orissa, is condemned by major religions in the area, including less radical Hindu leaders.

Mexico, Latin America: Mexico's "Catholic" population: does it again: free murder, and a bit of heresy from priests

2008-11-26T02:31:00.000-08:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa; c.f. Reuters (secular) 25/11/2008; Reuters (secular)23/11/08)

Article by Marc Aupiais

Heterodox versions of a "Catholicism" of sorts, reigns not only with Mexico's senate, which recently legalized euthanasia, in the Latin American nation, but also among people who should be Catholic. On the 23rd of November, Reuters reported on a Catholic priest, who blessed transvestites on the way to a festival where they dress as such and wonder around, an open sign of disobedience to the Vatican. It is a festival, the Catholic conquerors of Mexico banned early, which went underground. Mexico city is also one of the few cities in Latin America, where abortion is legal.

All three of these situations, if Reuters is correct in their reporting of them: can easily fall under condemnation of dogma. Inculturation never extends to adopting parts of a culture which are contrary to Catholicism, and it is rituals like these: for which the ancient Israelis were to kill their fellows, showing in essence a clear, direct condemnation in the bible, and therefore in Catholic tradition: of such. In the modern time, what is needed is repentance and confession among those in Mexico, who have abandoned their heritage.

Spain, Europe: Secular Government persecutes Catholics via "Crucifix" ruling

2008-11-25T11:42:00.001-08:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa; c.f. EuroNews (Secular) 25/11/08)

Article by Marc Aupiais

In a "historic" ruling, a Spanish court has ruled to allow to have crucifixes removed from classrooms in schools and even universities, according to it's "secular" constitution, the representation of the Catholic church in the country sees it as persecution.

Spain also recently created a child purely to be a blood bank, as it is gradually betraying its Catholic heritage via a secularism, which is not a treaty between diverse groupings, but a tool used to silence religion, by a government and legal system which sees moral objections of religious to be threats. Spain allows abortion, and "marriage" between homosexuals. In allowing the first, politicians voting for it more than likely excommunicated themselves, just as ordinary citizens would for voting for them knowing what they would do. The second also shows what the Catholic church considers a heretical view. According to the papacy: religion must never be repressed: it is not the role of the state to define moral or scientific truths, but to listen to those who specialize in these fields.

This is the latest in a long line of judgments against church, morality and God. Secularism is not the destruction of religion, but a system where religious groups live in harmony. Spain therefore cannot be defined as secular, but simply as having an irreligious, even atheistic legal system, and administration, if this ruling is allowed, as it has been.

As it is, the constitution allows for separation of church and state: L’Osservatore Romano, the Vatican state's national newspaper, has called this a judgment: motivated purely by hatred of religion itself, and not by the constitution of Spain, which EuroNews notes: allows for separation of religion and state.

India, AsiaNews.IT: Vishwa Hindu Parishad "Training" combattants: bounties out for killing Christians, as Hindu nationalists aim at finishing their Ge

2008-11-24T04:19:00.000-08:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa ; Philippine Bishops' Conference News (CBCP News)23/11/08)

Article by Marc Aupiais

Vishwa Hindu Parishad, whose claims are a central motivator for the Orissa violence, as violence is said to be an "act" of "revenge" against Christians for the death of a leader of the group, even though it is Maoist Rebels, who have claimed responsibility for the assassination: is now rumored to be creating "centers" of sorts, where youth can "learn" to be more effective in attacks on those professing Christianity. This is, according to the Philippine's Bishops' news service's source in this, based on an article by AsiaNews. The development, follows others in the region around Orissa, India.

Efforts, by the vengeful Hindu Nationalist groupings, in which the VHP has been accused of playing a role: at getting rid of remaining slithers of Christian influence, wealth and livelihood, include relatively inexpensive bounties on still professing Christians, as well as on Priests: such as US 250 per priest, or else basic necessities are traded for some acts of violence.

Illegal activities: for which Indian hit men, are supposedly to get paid for, in anti-Christian attacks, include burning down churches, or the slaying of important Christians. Previously, what seemed to be ideologically motivated volunteers would carry out attacks, these continue also, but, of late: their influence has yet to kill every Christian. Also, volunteers, generally hurt, or chase Christians, but are less prone to be effective killers.

Those who are getting paid for attacks are not paid wealthy sums, desperation, and self interest still cannot be ruled out in the attacks. Some have linked these to the destructions wrought on the cast system in Orissa, by the conversion of Christians to Christianity. Others have noted the appropriation of property by attackers, which could be seen as opportunism.

This latest development: is as winter comes around the corner, and Christians are lucky if left to suffer as internal refugees, in camps, which dispatches from AsiaNews.it on earlier dates have alleged to be: as unsafe, and prone to attacks. The fleeing persecuted's own houses have often been taken over by perpetrators of attacks, as with some of their goods. The Indian government is at this late hour: fronting claims of a special task force to protect Christians, the reality of these claims is yet to be seen in the future if lives are saved, as over 50 000 Christians have been adversely affected, and at last count: dozens had died. The attacks were already happening in September.

It could be hoped that: training camps, much like those run by militants at one stage in Afghanistan: aimed, in this case at Hindu Nationalists, attempting to kill Christians with more primitive weapons, even crude weapons: including swords, would not be successful in wiping out what remains of a persevering Christian outpost, in such a region of such a country, a country, whose government has, according to sources on the ground: been negligent at best at preventing deaths, and has been accused of a coverup over the genocide, by an important local church representation, which alleges this is to cover up the negligence with which local officials handled the situation.

Media and a non-democratic religion... give it some thought- we are not the same as our secular counterparts!

2008-11-12T07:59:00.000-08:00

(Journey in a Broken World; Catholic Watchdog South Africa; Media Study South Africa)

Article by Marc Aupiais

Our non-related Sister in Catholic journalism in South Africa- South Africa's Catholic Weekly, whom we sometime agree with, and sometimes really disagree with- the Southern Cross has two interesting editorials this week. Those who know me usually know that the word interesting often is a slur with me, and today I am somewhat disappointed in what we can expect to read this Sunday, when we buy the paper from our local churches.

I read two editorials, both of which are critical of the Vatican- one almost begging for women priests, and rebuking the Vatican for no taking action against "pedophile" priests, the other attacking the introduction of psychological testing in seminaries, saying it discourages homosexuals from the priesthood- because the guidelines aim at ensuring well fit priests for the job. Sadly, neither article is in line with what Catholic Culture would define as high fidelity. The same newspaper which attacked the view of the church on condoms, and I may add that the church has a much better scientific argument than the pro-condom advocates, is now attacking two policies in one week. The fact remains that it is an Excathedra statement of Pope John Paul the Second- which declares that the church has now not, nor ever will have any right to create "women priests", like divorce- a woman priest is something the church cannot ordain. The issue is closed.

So is it wrong to excommunicate those who support women priests- no, if they are in heresy, it is only fair to do so. The Southern Cross then says that the church should get rid of the sexual offenders, and stop mistreating the supporters of women priests, but is this mistreatment?

Canon law clearly excommunicates automatically all who ordain or are ordained as women priests. Canon law has a different penalty for sexual abuses. In other words, for the one, the people already are kicked out of the church- and this means the church believes they will very likely end their life with the devil in hades if they do not get re-infused into the church by correct ceremony. A priest who absolves his sexual partner of their sexual sin is also automatically excommunicated, except in danger of death.

An active homosexual lifestyle, is not only proven to shorten the lifespan, and contribute to levels of sexual disease, but also is directly condemned in the New and Old testaments, and in every statement on the matter by the church, from the earliest times, to Vatican II, to today!

As for homosexuality and the priesthood, the Southern Cross misinterprets the same document we ourselves have reported on. Its purpose is not to root out homosexuals, but to root out sexual predators, and those who cannot control their urges. Unless the Southern Cross wants to appose the papacy and Vatican II's authority, they must agree that the church should have no interest whatsoever in appointing men to the priesthood who will break with celibacy, yet already they seem in danger of Canon 1373, and 1371, of creating animosity against the papacy, or bishops over an act of ecclesiastical authority.

So, how does the Catholic media keep their superiors accountable, and the answer is- we don't.

In a democracy- freedom of speech is a vital sector of society, in an autocracy, it has a different purpose. The Catholic media is not a watchdog waiting to pounce on the church and call for resignations. We are called to respect authority above us. I certainly appose the South African Bishop who went around promoting condoms, even in other countries, and i have a right to, so what do I mean we are not a watchdog?

I mean- we are not telling people how to vote in the next bishop or pope, we don't vote for these, we just obey them or walk! The system is not a democracy, and so the subjects need a different sort of information.

If a bishop teaches heresy, they must be named and shamed- in such a way as to encourage repentance, counter their harm, and inform their superiors. If a bishop says something that is valid, you should not try to create animosity to them, as though this institutes change.

The role of our secular brothers- is to safeguard their democracies, the role of the Catholic media is to safeguard the pillar and foundation of our truth- our autocracy.

Where a bishops apposes a valid act of the papacy, by all means- we must appose this bishop, and not give him good press, but if we disagree with the bishop or papacy on a valid point- we have no right to publicly whip them in the press.

The sin of detraction, and the law of the church cautions one validly about media circuses and also that we are not to interfere via force in valid ecclesiastical choices and decisions. We may appose some of them- but have no right to appose dogmas such as the celibate male priesthood- the "enuchs made so by God" (Jesus of Nazareth).

It is not the media who runs the church, but the validly ordained bishops- we may advise- but in an autocracy- in general- it is best to give people the information to best cope with what superiors have said. If we are trying to move public opinion to gain our goal, against the wishes of the Vatican- then we do not want an autocracy, but a democracy. Democratic religion is so strongly condemned by the early Christians, and the bible, that we shall not mention it. Simply, a democratic religion changes truth.

I am disappointed in what the Southern Cross will distribute in our parishes this Sunday, as it is, we already have such troubles in Southern Africa, our country and church. Driving a larger wedge between the Magisterium and the laity will not help the situation, and yet our media seems so certain of their solution to the problem, that they seem almost oblivious to the idea that the Vatican has already investigated it. Condoms have a proven success rate in increasing aids, or so I am lead to believe by statistics- whereby Uganda is conquering the disease via abstinence, and in South Africa we simply get more of the disease through our condom happy campaigns.

History has shown time and again- Orthodoxy is potent- it spreads the faith and hurts persecution. If we are to solve the actual crisis in the modern church- I might suggest covering up our bishops actual gaps- by education the Catholic populace in Orthodoxy, as EWTN does on Radio Veritas, as our bishops would need to appreciate, as we are obeying their position by this. Let us be true Watchdogs- knowing that Watchdogs are loyal to their owners, and eat biscuits, and nice bowls of doggy food. Let us mimic our pope in Catholic media, let us be "God's Rottweilers"- watching not on our cultural desires, but keeping an eye on the dignity of the human person- and never letting it be attacked, even by someone attacking their own divine dignity. Our aid is at truth, not politics, not opinion, and as Catholics we believe that comes from tradition (I Timothy III verse XV). Our job is to spread the gospel and the truth, but we must realize that the church is pillar and foundation of this. Our basis must not be human rights, but human dignity, not kindness, but truth.

I invite my brothers at the Southern Cross to a new evangelism- how about next week publishing a justification of the Male celibate priesthood, and of the Vatican's choice to screen priests to end abuses more fully. Since when should catholics care about the "right" of gay people to be priests- no one has a right to be a priest- only the church has this right to appoint people. I truly am disappointed today.

EuroNews, Reuters, UK Times, ETC- Northern Spain- Opus Dei founded Navarre university suffers sixth attack by Spanish Separatistys (ETA)

2008-10-30T23:00:00.000-07:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa; c.f. EuroNews (Secular)30/10/08; Reuters (Secular) 30/10/08; International Herald and Tribune (Secular) 30/10/08)

Founded by the founder of Opus Dei, Josemaria Escriva' about 56 years ago- The Navaree university, in the region bordering France, has for the sixth time suffered a bomb attack from Spanish separatists- the Basque group ETA.

The car bomb killed no one, but injured between 17 and 22 people- mostly with flying shards of glass. Smoke was seen lighting the air like ashes from a volcano, or more like rising smoke from a steam train. Students Left the building, notably some were phoning others as they evacuated from the canvas.

An unclear phone call was made to authorities before the blast, which caused them to redirect traffic, however they estimated the location of the attack incorrectly, evacuating the wrong university- Vitoria. This follows recent busting of an ETA cell, which police had claimed were prepared for a terrorist strike.

India- I was Raped, publically shown naked in front of police, who did nothing, I will not co-operate- Nun, who refuses to co-operate with Police.

2008-10-26T08:47:00.000-07:00

(Social Justice South Africa; c.f. The Star 24/10/08; Sunday Independent 24/10/08)

Article by Marc Aupiais

Speaking to international media, an Indian Nun, who is said to have been captured, raped and paraded around naked, next to a priest, by a large amount Hindu Fundamentalists, in Orissa, India on the 25th of August 2008, says she will not co-operate with India's Police. She says that police were present when she was paraded naked in public by the mob, and that the police did nothing. These claims are almost mirror images of claims by other nuns (Sisters of Charity- founded by Blessed Mother Theressa), who were captured by a mob, and turned over to police on charges that they had kidnapped orphans in their care. The nuns were held without evidence, and were promptly able to show papers to prove their case. police still were not sympathetic.

Other sources claim that refugee camps are not protected, this due to the fact that attacks have been recorded by journalists to reach within the camps. The Archbishop of the capital of Orissa, Bhubaneswar- Archbishop Cheenath, has of late- claimed that there was more of the appearance of a government cover-up over guilt of officials in the genocide, in a recent inquiry, than efforts to bring about law and justice. The many deaths, are claimed by many Catholic bishops to be partly due to the way the government has handled the situation, and victims often claim that police or government personnel were nearby when they were attacked, but did nothing.

The Indian government is in the habit of not mentioning, in death reports- that those suffering attacks are Christians. A prominent Indian Hindu Nationalist Party, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), also recently attacked prayers for peace in the region by Catholic pope Benedict XVI- insinuating that the Vatican was not within their rights, by in their statements- including that religious leader should not say anything, and that India is a "sovereign" nation, as though this entitled the exclusion of foreign calls for laws to be enforced, not against the oppressed, but for basic human rights to be safeguarded.

Other articles- Maoist Rebels claim responsibility for death used to create the genocide

http://socialjusticesa.blogspot.com/2008/10/sunday-independent-maoist-rebels.html

South African daily Newspaper version of the Sunday Times, the "Times" airs antagonistic article critisizing sainting of Indian Saint, and ignoring Indian Genocide

2008-10-26T07:43:00.000-07:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa; c.f. antagonistic article at The Times 26/10/08 (While we have saved the address of this article for future reference, we will not link to it in articles))

Article by Marc Aupiais

It is titled "Christian church is obsessed with race", and so we could already see the bias of an article published, and evidence was then proof saved securely as evidence by our systems- of the antagonistic article in the "Times", the new daily service of South Africa's "Sunday Times".

In an article which calls naming a saint from India, an Indian Saint "White Supremacist", and completely ignores that perhaps nations are given honour by the fact that Holy people have lived there, and which entirely ignores any mention of the current anti-Christian Genocide in India, an article appearing in the Times, the new daily version of the Sunday times, lashes out at Christianity, and in particular Catholicism.

The new daily newspaper already has used its platform to do something which we can only disapprove of. Please inform us of further bias as evident in news-media.

Multi-choice- a look at DSTV / Mnet's track-record with the church

2008-10-21T03:58:00.000-07:00

(Media Study South Africa; c.f. Catholic Watchdog South Africa)

Article by Marc Aupiais

I personally enjoy watching DSTV, I love Carte Blanche, and its power to do good- and not simply because of the French name- and enjoy the variety. What I don't enjoy is the many somewhat suspect movies I have seen on DSTV as regards the Roman Catholic church- from the religious sponsored movie Luther- a completely inaccurate, especially if accurate were Luther's diary of the events, or that of historic sources- depiction of the life of Martin Luther- in which the main Character calls Roman Catholic "friendly" Rome at the time hell, and the pope the devil, or something as bad, to "Saved", and its odd depiction of Christianity, to screening the Davinci Code- to the movie "Breach"- which could well be accurate, as apparently based on a true story- with a main character who is spying on the US, and belongs to Opus Dei it seems. I also think I saw the film Primeval Fear or something on one of their channels- which was not agreeable with my senses, also notable is Kingdom of Heaven and its portrayal of the Church.

A while ago I tried to ask DSTV to add EWTN Global Catholic Television Network, who seemingly supply their service freely- to their television bouquet. I was unsuccessful. There are so many channels with a Evangelical Baptism/Fundamentalist/"Non-denominational denomination" type of feel on their network- that I thought one Catholic, even Anlglican or Lutheran Television station would be just fairness, but I see neither very many Catholic movies, nor many Catholic channels on DSTV.

A channel which is Catholic is Audio channel 170 on DSTV- Radio Veritas- a certainly loyal station, when it comes to obeying South Africa's bishops- which sometimes propagates information contrary to what I have been able to research of history- but none the less propagated by diocesan sources. I also heard it playing music by Justin Timberlake and Madonna (Four Seconds to Save the World) some time ago- but the announcer seemed to be Portuguese, perhaps they thought it appropriate, and the station itself does not claim only to play catholic music- or only music from organizations who promalgate Trinitarian Baptism- as seen in their playing Mormon or other music.

All they promise is the "good news and good music for a change".

One of the problems with Veritas- is that they were interviewing a person from Catholics for Truth, who are hosted on our Archdiocese' evangelism website, who stated-

"As the church became more institutionalised, the gifts of the Spirit became less common and were seen only in the lives of the great “Saints’. Some, such as St Augustine of Hippo (354-430 AD) initially thought that they were meant only for the early Church, to “kick-start” her, so to speak. However, he later withdrew this opinion in his Retractions, when he himself witnessed the gifts in abundance in his own Diocese. It was apparent to him then that the gifts occurred where people had expectant faith."
http://www.catholic-jhb.org.za/tracts/renewal.htm

The page is now only accessibly in Google cache- as the entire "evangelism" site has been closed down without any warning we can tell of.

Also this is stated in perhaps only slightly different words on the radio station, by a person interviewed. These words were not repudiated. One may use scripturelink to search on this- but the manifest fact was Augustine went to such pains to prove the gifts of the early Christians- because he had no examples to use if EWTN is to be believed.

We ourselves have countered these claims on:

http://scripturelink.googlepages.com/charismaticmovement

This said- Veritas is run by persons within the church, in this I speak of contact I have had with representation of the station- who truly seem dedicated to their tasks- even if those interviewed, or quoted are sometimes doctrinally incorrect- it is good of DSTV to host them.

What point is there in noting this- it lies in believing that what DSTV screens with their news and entertainment is the full spectrum- it is not, nor is it normal for so many films, including a recent screening "Absolution" to be played on a network without any real opposite viewpoint portrayed. It is odd that this should be permitted, and sad that DSTV has not addressed the issue so apparent- in that someone within their buying department or whatever controls their films and programs- has somehow decided to buy rights to such caliber films to screen, and to choose such channels, that it seems some groups are oddly favoured.

All of this said- I still do enjoy watching DSTV- and sadly- just as a certain and in the case of the example, though not DSTV- infamous channel- CBS chose to air Joan of Arcaidia- a clearly Catholic program, so DSTV also has Veritas- more than this it has BBC, whose news is often accurate, and many useful channels. Until a better competitor, and for that matter, one very positive toward faith, and reason- is allowed in the Market- DSTV is still has a wider selection than many.

DSTV's KTV is very well managed- and probably for quality- permit that their programs seem sometimes to be more than a decade old as long as they are suitable, or seem to be for children.

So- ultimately- the weaknesses in DSTV lie in their selection of films, and their over-emphasis on a very small minority religion's perspective in South Africa- while ignoring that of larger groups to some extent- so that this has only appeared on an Audio Channel, and maybe in a few programs on networks they air.

Some links on sources:

Message Board Conversation where some viewers of movies discuss their views. Not all movies in this discussion have relevance
The Film Luther Reviewed
Veritas on DSTV
Radio Veritas
Refutation of statements on Augustine from good sources

Israeli leading party in Anti-Catholic media brawl

2008-10-20T10:56:00.000-07:00

(Scripturelink Voters Guide; Catholic Watchdog South Africa; c.f. BBC World News 20/10/08)

Article by Marc Aupiais

BBC is reporting that a large number of pictures combined in a montage as one- of His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI have been placed, covered in symbols of Nazi Germany on a website run by supporters of Yalla Kadima, Israel's most popular political party. This follows previous attacks by Israelis on the courageous efforts of Pope Pius XII, which involved the risk of his own life to defend Jews undergoing at the time Nazi persecution, in which they said he could have "done more", some of these earlier attacks came from the first non-Christian, a Jewish speaker- ever invited to a recent Catholic Synod on the bible. Pope Pius XII is being considered for canonization.

According to the BBC- the Israeli government considers the Vatican to be "pro-Palestinian" and there are issues between Holy Mother church- and Israel such as problems with visas, as well as disagreements over taxation of church properties.

Tzipi Livni, the leader of the party some of whose supporters placed the images on a website used by activists of the party, who is trying to become Israel's prime minister- is said to have personally asked for the removal of the montage. Apparently, according to a spokesperson claiming to represent the leader of the party concerned, just before the montage was removed that is- the views expressed on the site are not an accurate reflection of the views of the party. It is odd- that when attempting to promote Jewish interests, as regards the Holocaust - that those responsible should themselves partake in the defamation of religious figures- and the propagation of negative sentiments of another's religion- especially as this is the very foundation of the Holocaust they experienced.

Other issues with Israel reported- include the wording of the "Yad Vashem" holocaust memorial- which is less than kind to Pope Pius XII, and represents a view of the World War II pope- which the Vatican cannot possibly agree with- based (The Vatican's view that is) on the actual history of what occured.

Delegates to Catholic bible synod include Jewish speaker, and Protestants, as well as Our Othodox Brothers

2008-10-04T00:45:00.000-07:00

(Journey In a broken World; c.f. Catholic Culture 03/10/08; Vatican Information Services 03/10/08)

Article by Marc Aupiais

With the article from the Vatican itself emphasizing the amount of feminine experts attending- the Church will on Sunday have opened their 12th "general assembly of the Synod of Bishops"( Catholic Culture 03/10/08).

Events include a Jewish Rabbi who will speak of the Jewish perspective on scriptures. Also attending are many experts, as well as delegates from the Eastern Orthodox churches, Lutherans, Anglicans, and others.

Communist Vietnam- government further insults bishops

2008-10-02T09:31:00.000-07:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa; c.f. Catholic Culture; Asianews.it)

Article by Marc Aupiais

The communist government of Vietnam has taken the same path of Zimbabwe- in insulting Catholic bishops for works of the faithful. On state news- the government lambasted efforts to regain church land, particularly an ambassadorial building of the highest permanent diplomatic position in the church.

Vietnamese prime minister- Nguyen Tan Dung claimed that the archbishop of Hanoi had broken laws and the constitution, and damaged Vietnam's reputation- he said the bishops were pleased with relations, and aimed to further aid them. He left out the bishops support of the archbishop, and acted as though this were purely an issue with the Archbishop, whom he called for the disposing of by the Church. Vietnam, like other countries under communism, an ideology labeled as evil by Mother church- continues to clash with Catholics.

Recently mobs of communist youth disrupted a prayer meeting outside of the building- with police securing it with iron barriers, and carrying off church artifacts.

Vietnamese citizens continue to gain a corrupted image of reality from their media organizations- who recently also misquoted church officials before this.

Commentary- Creative Minority Report- Science needs to pass the you're not special test!

2008-10-01T23:04:00.000-07:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa; c.f. Creative Minority Report)

Article By Marc Aupiais

Disclaimer:

The Following article is a commentary, which does not neccessarially reflect the view of this service.

Now everything I say here is based on what I read at Creative Minority report, and personal views, I am not a quantum physicist, so I don't really know!

Article

Another oddity in science, yes I love the word oddity, but it is a good word to describe things we don't think should be as they are- and I don't think this should be as it is.

It's called the "Copernican principle", or as Creative Minority Report notes- The "We're not special principle". It's a principle that often plays out in movies- when the good looking chap looks at the lady, or where a High School Musical scene emerges- not that we don't disagree with Disney's views on religion, and abortion, but the point is- when something says you're special- mankind says fairytale. Now, I by no means support creationism- the idea sounds more like Evangelical Fundamentalism's apologetics, PR department than science, but I do find it odd that we should have such a principle. Another principle is that the most likely, simple solution to a problem probably is the solution- but to me that sounds like guesswork. We believe, and I adhere to the idea that all we have came from the big bang. An Evangelical Fundamentalist I disagree with heavily states- "Nothing Exploded" as if it disproved this wondrous science, and I think- yes- is not the big bang the ultimate proof of God- that nothing should become everything- surely- Nothing must have been altered by Reality- surely- Reality must have made the universe out of nothing. I have actually converted someone to Christianity on the spot, by discussing my belief in the Big Bang- because this mystery has to lead to God.

Now back to the concept discussed by Matthew Archbold, over at Creative Minority Report-

There is a theory that the Earth is located in a low cosmic pressure zone, which apparently could explain all these anomolies about time seeming to alter, or things going faster than the speed of light- now I am the first person to decry creationism- but if this is the simplest solution, and could answer the question, and I am no expert at science- then why should we exclude it as possible based purely on the fact that it makes the earth slightly different. Of course we are different- how else could evolution have occured, we as a planet with life have to be different from ones which have none. Of course, Matthew may be wrong, and we may not have the entire picture- but if the Cinderella shoe fits, why not cautiously investigate if it really is so?

Of course- I do not endorse such a theory myself- but really- I am fascinated by this other "Copernican principle", if it really exists, please someone send me more on it- yes, we must be cautious when the cosmic good looking girl science waves at us, and check before waving back, but if this is true- then its sad not to wave simply to avoid embarrassment. In Fact, I'd even rather wave if she wasn't waving at me, after all- it doesn't need to be releasing anything- but investigating it may lead onto another theory, and waving at girls at least gets their attention!

Creative Minority Report: Google & Gay Marriage

2008-10-01T09:20:00.000-07:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa;Creative Minority Report: Google & Gay Marriage - A Catholic Blog: Religion, Politics, Current Events, Humor, and more.)

Article by Marc Aupiais

Sadly- Google, who had tried to ban anti-abortion ads on abortion searches, and still have those revolting anti-Catholic ads- which are actually against our rights in South Africa-

has done it again-

They are saying they are in favor as an organization- of Gay Marriage in California.

Sadly- such comments create such hostile environments- not only to Catholics still working at Google- but also to the truth itself- enshrined in our Faith, and in all but the most liberal dictionaries.

Marriage is a relationship between a man and a woman, not a man and a dog, or lizard, or corpse, or man? No, that is simply a relationship. Sadly- we see more persecution of truth by those lying about giving choice- choice must always be subject to reason!

Holy See- use Technology to the benefit of man

2008-09-30T23:39:00.000-07:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa; Catholic Culture 30/09/08; Vatican Information Service 30/09/08)

Article by Marc Aupiais

Catholic Culture reports- that in announcing their theme for "World Day Of Social Communications"(Sunday 31 May 2009)(Vatican Information Service 30/09/08)- the Vatican emphasizes building relationships, dialog and friendship.

Archbishop Claudio Maria Celli, president of the Pontifical Council for Social Communications, is the source of these words, and pointed out that the Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, believes media can create the atmospheres that create dialog and trust.

Rome- Synod to focus on bible

2008-09-30T23:04:00.000-07:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa; Southern Cross (Fidelity issues, link removed: new link explains why) 01/10/08)

Article by Marc Aupiais

In light of the coming synod on the Bible, the Southern Cross- is emphasizing the role of the bible in the church. What is not mentioned in their article- is that one of the Oldest popular Catholic bibles- the Douay Rheims- was published before the King James version, or that many of the so-called bible translators- were killed not for translating- something common at the time- but rather for heresy, schism, opposition to church and state- and a revolting appetite for mocking Catholic practice. They were of course killed according to the biblical principal that Aquinas emphasizes- that when acting for justice- and as just authority- a just authority- and not an average citizen- for the good of the nation's people- in Catholic morality has the right to rid the nation of such a citizen (c.f. Augustine- Just War).

Certain anti-Catholic groups may particularly focus on people such as Wycliff- whose translation was so bad- that the Catholic church had him killed. Wycliff was also a heretic- who certainly was not a modern Protestant in belief, or Tyndale- whose bible was such a purposeful mistranslation- to support Martin Luther, and whose footnotes were so anti-Catholic- that not only did Henry the 8th appose him as a heretic, before and after his split with the church, but he was eventually arrested by the secular "Holy Roman Empire"'s representatives and killed- at a time when the church had a waning influence in England (This Rock Magazine 2002;).

In fact- for all the bible martyrs fronted by those apposing the views of the church- there is a similar story.

To be in any real hatred of the Catholic church- one often must discount reason and history!

Another appearance of Catholic disrespect from the bible came about when the American government made the King James Version compulsory in schools- forcing Catholics of the time to veto these classes out of obedience to their bishops.

Further Reading

Tyndale

http://www.catholic.com/thisrock/2002/0212fea3.asp

Translations on both sides
http://www.scborromeo.org/truth/b4.htm

Related to Tyndale- perils of the "Left Behind" Series, and it's apparent links with anti-catholicism- according to Catholic Answers Apolostate
http://www.catholic.com/thisrock/2001/0109fea3.asp

Indian, and Asian continent Bishops again appeal for aid on violence!

2008-09-30T00:58:00.000-07:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa; Agenzia Fides 29/09/2008)

Article by Marc Aupiais

The Asian Catholic Bishops- representing the entirety of the Asian continent's Catholic Bishops- have repeated unsuccessful appeals by Indian Bishops, and international Catholic sources to bring an end of the anti-Christian Genocide occurring in large regions of India. The Federation of Asian Bishops voiced their concerns- and noted that India's constitution should invoke their protection, saying that Christians too are citizens of India who should be entitled to protection from religious violence!

There has yet to be retaliatory attacks from the Christians, who have been urged to take non-violent means, peace and forgiveness. These Perpetrators of Human dignity- must be brought under strict punishment, surely- we must pray that these poor persons- whose only crime is hope in Christ- may survive this harsh genocide!

Their statements may be seen here:

http://www.fides.org/aree/news/newsdet.php?idnews=17771&lan=eng

India- More persecution of Christians- Nun dies after fleeing to jungle

2008-09-30T00:19:00.000-07:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa; c.f. Catholic World News 29/09/08 as seen at Catholic Culture)

Article by Marc Aupiais

After contracting Malaria in the jungle among Christian refugees fleeing the Anti-Christian Hindu Extremist mobs- who have burnt over 4 000 Christian homes, and killed directly and indirectly- many Christians- 30 year old nun- Sister Mable, died of Malaria- despite getting to a hospital.

The Indian Government has set up 14 refugee camps. Christian refugees report that these camps are not safe- with attacks succeeding within these as well- and therefore many Christians have fled to the jungles.

Refugees face daily threats to their existence- and not only from mobs, who force conversions, but from nature, having fled to places in the jungle.

The international community has yet to mention this recent genocide- in any way so as to reach us! To prove to the mops that their conversion really "has" happened- Christians must take violent actions against peers, and sign- lying that of their own free will they convert to Hinduism.

Vietnam- communists- still clash with Catholics- Vietnamese Government won't return Catholic Diplomatic Building- Take Catholic Artifacts

2008-09-29T23:42:00.000-07:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa; c.f. Catholic Culture; UCAN News; CNS 01/02/08)

Article by Marc Aupiais

Catholic Culture, basing an article on the United Catholic Asian News service reports more trouble in Vietnam.

Catholics in Vietnamese Ha Noi, were mobbed by Communist youth, as the Vietnamese Government confiscated a cross and statue of the Madonna- from a former nunciature, which the government had promised in February to return to the church. The symbols of faith were placed under a tree months ago after prayer.

The Catholics were praying outside of Iron Barriers erected by the communist government, outside the disputed building. Communism is considered an evil ideology by the Church. The building was surrounded by hundreds of police- apparently seeing the catholics as a threat- these were supported by communist youths- who forced the praying Catholics back. Prayer is a powerful weapon- but this shows just how far certain governments are prepared to go to protect their own interests.

A nunciature is the building in which a nuncio resides, the highest rank of diplomat from the Holy See- dispatched permanently to a Civil Authority.

Pope- Giving Catholic church religious liberty helps everyone

2008-09-29T00:25:00.001-07:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa; c.f. Zenit New Service)

Article by Marc Aupiais

Speaking to the Czech Ambassador to the Holy See (Vatican City State), the Pope today congratulated the Czech government on progress made with religious rights, but called for further liberty to to be given to Catholics, the Ex-Communist country's government still owns lands the church claims as her own. Communist regimes were famous for confiscating Catholic and other lands.

Pope- Giving Catholic church religious liberty helps everyone

2008-09-29T00:25:00.000-07:00

Bishop gives admirable speech- to gay audience that invited him

2008-09-27T11:05:00.000-07:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa; c.f. Creative Minority Report; Cal Catholic Daily)

Article by Marc Aupiais

Sacramento Coadjutor Bishop Jaime Soto recently was keynote speaker at a gay and lesbian catholics conference in America- where he was expected by many to do what some American bishops have done on issues ranging from salvation, to the mass, to abortion- and endorse the heretical* view of the group....

Instead- and I will quote his words of wisdom, and disapproval of the sin these poor persons where they manifested a heretical* view of marriage and were perhaps are separated from the Ecclesiam by-

"[Cal Catholic Daily] But there was noting ambiguous about Bishop Soto’s remarks to the group. “Sexual relations between people of the same sex can be alluring for homosexuals, but it deviates from the true meaning of the act and distracts them from the true nature of love to which God has called us all,” Bishop Soto said. “For this reason, it is sinful. Married love is a beautiful, heroic expression of faithful, life-giving, life-creating love. It should not be accommodated and manipulated for those who would believe that they can and have a right to mimic its unique expression."

At least five members of the audience walked out during the bishop’s address. When he finished speaking, there was general silence -- with only a very small number applauding.

The chairman of the conference then announced that the bishop would answer questions at a reception that would be held in another room. That led to widespread expressions of disapproval from members of the audience, who said they wanted to be able to express their responses immediately. It was agreed that those who wanted to speak would line up. The bishop was told twice by the chairman that he was free to leave if he wanted -- or to stay and listen. Bishop Soto stayed and sat quietly listening to every response.

A series of about eight speakers came to the microphone to express their unhappiness with what the bishop had said -- and what they felt he had not said. One woman said, in essence, "We know what the Church says. What we wanted you to talk about is the value of our lived experience as lesbian women and gay men."

Two speakers -- one man and one woman -- thanked the bishop for his address and voiced their agreement with what he had to say.

While the audience members were responding to the bishop’s remarks, a board member of the National Association of Catholic Diocesan Lesbian and Gay Ministries came up to one of the tables in the room and said, "On behalf of the board, I apologize. We had no idea Bishop Soto was going to say what he said.""

http://www.creativeminorityreport.com/2008/09/soto-voce.html

*Official church definition- one who rejects a doctrine they are obligated to believe

90% of JHB Archdiocese Catholics in substance of Mortal sin, and lack of priests?

2008-09-27T10:28:00.000-07:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa)

Article by Marc Aupiais

Statistics apparently from the recent Synod- say only 100 000 of the 1 000 000 Catholics in the Archdiocese regularly attend mass- as not attending mass on purpose is a mortal sin- this is very serious.

Some parishes only can have communion once every three months-

This is because of a shortage of priests- our local seminary has had to close large sections- and two schools have become one.

What's the problem- well- we think people need to stop watering down the faith- or lying about the seriousness of sin- if people knew they would go to hell for certain actions, many wouldn't do as they do...

Sadly- often the culprits are representatives of the church- and the diocese, to whom we have sent twice reports of misuse of authority- does not usually respond well- we have even been told to join in, having reported an incident- when on holiday I and another attended a mass where the priest encouraged the parish to commit an abuse of the mass, and also sang happy birthday to a parishioner (a seemingly common event).

One of our foundational doctrines is Extra Ecclesiam Nulla Sallus- outside the sacraments and the church- there is no salvation- except to those who for no fault of their own are not actively in union with the Divine teachings of the church! We are told to attend mass on sundays and days of obligation- and to attend confession yearly.

The issue is grave and until we determine to halt our politically correct talk- or stop the craziness of not preaching, or at least speaking of our religion- a secular value- disobedient to the gospel- we will continue to see short ques at confession- and lax Catholicism at church. God is in the detail- not some sketchy outline- when we gain respect for our ancestors who burnt heretics at the stake- perhaps we realize how important the immortal soul is- we only have one- while our body will be replaced after death.

I don't advocate burning anyone- that only can happen when a just Authority asks for it- and usually when that is that in charge of the land- and I don't say it is any solution- my real point is that we need to clearly preach our religion- to read the bible and catechism as a family at night- and to debate like anything about our beliefs- until such time as we promoted the faith boldly- and decide- not to spare the nation of our values- but to cement them in law- and in vocal objections to immorality- with insistence not to permit evil people to get away with public scandal-

Until we choose to rise as one- and rid our land of the yoke of ignorance- we will continue to hell preaching the secular humanist Philosophy - "don't judge- forgive", rather than the Catholic one- "forgive your brother 77 times a day if he truly repents and asks genuinely for forgiveness- otherwise- treat those who offend against the church- those who call themselves Christians- but aren't- as foreigners..."

Now we treat these people with love- but the bible shows that sometimes love is to tell them they are in sin- and to encourage change by any means possible... Of course- due to business needs and other things- and the nature of the world- we do need to associate with these people- but it does not mean we neglect judging- and truly letting them know the requirements for their salvation!

The Church Militant exists to preach the gospel- to administer the Sacraments- and to manifest glory and bring its members their due.

Judge not the church with the world's eyes- judge the world as the spiritual man- who the bible says "judges all things!", especially within the church!

Prayers to prevent Abortion Bill- Australia- Fides

2008-09-27T06:32:00.000-07:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa; Agenzia Fides)

Article by Marc Aupiais

The Archbishop Denis Hart of Melbourne has sent a request for prayer to Catholic citizens in Melbourne- to combat an abortion bill- similar to those present in South Africa- which would force hospitals to partake in abortion- and be excommunicated from our church, or break the law. A third of births in the region are delivered by Catholic health care- and this follows announcements by the Archbishop that if the bill passes through successfully- the Catholic hospitals will close their maternity wards to not partake in this grievous, scandalous sin- proposed in legislation.

The Archbishop has set up a "Day of Intercession for Life," (Sunday, October 5, 2008), including a vigil at the Saint Patrick's Cathedral- for those planning to pray against this.

Indian Bishops on Persecution- AsiaNews.IT

2008-09-27T06:20:00.000-07:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa; AsiaNews.it)

The Following article is used with permission. While most of our articles are freely distributable by those supporting our causes- so far as this distribution is not for prophet, or is reqested in writing- the following may not be distributed without prior permission from AsiaNews.it, who have permitted us to place this here.

http://southafricancatholic.blogspot.com/2008/09/indian-bishops-on-persecution.html

Condoms could increase disease- percentage goes up with awareness/"protection program"

2008-09-26T22:28:00.000-07:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa; Catholic League - For Civil And Religious Rights)
Article By Marc Aupiais
Quotation from Catholic League

Direct Quotation from a Catholic League Article- they permit their articles to be distributed with correct attribution!
"September 18, 2008

Do Condoms Increase STDs?

New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s office yesterday released the annual Mayor’s Management Report. It shows that the Health Department gave away 39,070,000 male condoms to community groups in fiscal year 2008, which ended June 30. News story are reporting that this figure is more than double the rate from the previous fiscal year.

What is not being discussed by the media, however, is what the data show regarding the incidence of syphilis: while the distribution of condoms increased by 120 percent in one year, the number of syphilis cases increased by 20 percent.

If condoms are the answer to STDs, then syphilis cases should have declined markedly. The fact that syphilis cases spiked should prove sobering. But, alas, New York City has learned absolutely nothing: next year it plans to distribute 51.6 million condoms. Watch for the rate of STDs to increase as well.

Do condoms increase STDs? It would be difficult to prove that they do, though it is entirely possible that the promiscuous distribution of condoms by government agencies fosters a climate of complacency, one ill-suited to inducing the virtue of self-restraint. One thing is for sure: condom distribution does not curb STDs. Indeed, Mayor Bloomberg is perpetuating a dangerous hoax on young people by ratcheting up condom distribution—even when it is crystal clear that this policy is backfiring."
http://www.catholicleague.org/chatterbox.php?#177

How is it, that South Africa, with the biggest pro-condom program I know of- has one of the highest aids and Sexual Diseases rates- perhaps this is because condoms- as the bible says (c.f. Onan's death; Deuteronomy 23 v 1,2; etc)and the Church says (Humane Vitae), condoms are evil- the use of them is a mortal sin- so perhaps what is evil causes evil as is to be expected. After all- forming the atmosphere of false safety that people do- or teaching children to wear condoms instead of abstaining- generally makes them think they've been given a licence- especially when you give them certificates for it.

Perhaps we need an end of this condom distribution, a start of valuing marriage, and a real input into giving out medication- not items of sin!

Anti-abortion prayers started yesterday

2008-09-25T23:54:00.000-07:00

(c.f. 40 Days for life)

A campaign to end abortion via prayer rituals for 40 days outside abortion clinics across states in the US has been launched.

"40 Days for Life is a focused pro-life campaign with a vision to access God’s power through prayer, fasting, and peaceful vigil to end abortion in America." says their mission statement
http://www.40daysforlife.com/about.cfm?selected=campaign

It started yesterday.

UN's Developed World chooses not to focuss on development goals- Vatican

2008-09-25T23:51:00.000-07:00

"(Social Justice South Africa; c.f. Zenit)

Article by Marc Aupiais

The Holy See is asking why the developed world's US is prepared to put 700 billion US Dollars into supporting their own failed banking sector- rather- while only giving tricklings of aid to the developed world. "...

http://southafricancatholic.blogspot.com/2008/09/yesterday-vatican-un-nations-could.html

click link to read on

South Africa's new president- no general election!

2008-09-25T06:22:00.000-07:00

(Scripturelink Voters guide; c.f. E News Channel)

Article By Marc Aupiais

With a quarter of Parliament voting for the DA's candidate over the ANC's, and an oddly chummy atmosphere given by the MF and IFP- towards the ANC over the past few days- the ANC has gotten their way with a new president.

The PAC used this to appeal to get some of their members out of jail- while some opposition parties used this to cannibalize on their fellows for ANC approval.

The way in which the ID allied with the ANC in the past against the DA- was not overly present today- rather- they brought attention to the facts- and asked for justice over the arms deal. The DA- using their Democratic right sent forth their own, black candidate to combat the election- where 400 people alone got to choose our president. The spunk of the opposition is to admired- sadly many of the parties, including the so-called ACDP- seemed more interested in praying for the new "President" to have wisdom, or in telling stories than in bringing up how irregularly this procedure occurred. Some brought up that Mbeki was being fired- not for being guilty of crime- but for mere insinuation by a judge not judging him.

The factional infighting of the ANC- which is so damaging our Nation's image was credited by some for this quick election.

With many spoiled papers and absent parliamentarians- this new election is truly a sad manifestation of both the power of one political party- one which a Catholic cannot justly vote for- due to their connection with the communist party and support of abortion- but also of how politics have degraded our nation.

The speaker and others insulted some speakers as I watched- and when one parliamentarian spoke- there were false roaring sounds in the crowd of parliamentarians. This reminds one of the disrespect shown once when a DA parliamentarian took the role of speaker- and was insulted for her attire, and disrespected quite shamefully.

Sadly- as long as one party has such majority- South Africans are not likely to see much progress- because a powerful party is not accountable to its voters.

Persecution of Christians in India continues... Authorities gag nuns

2008-09-25T01:01:00.000-07:00

(c.f. Vultus Christi; Asianews.it)

Article by Marc Aupiais

While militant groups continue unopposed, and not denounced- to ravage Indian Christian populants- threatening violence- unless they sign that they have freely and of their own will converted to Hinduism- the Indian Government has gaged the Sisters of Charity (Mother Theressa's organization) from speaking of their recent arrest by Police on trumped up kidnapping charges. While their persecutors are marching to the streets against them- they themselves have been silenced- as the Indian government continues to deny armed protection to those suffering these terrorist mops' attacks on Christians. Christian refugee camps- still are not protected- and Christians are still being killed- their houses burnt, and their hair shaved off.

These brutish attacks on human dignity continue to be unopposed in the UN, whose involvement in legislature to try force contraception and abortion on the Philippines, along with an abortion company - is still questionable.

Those who do "convert" are forced to burn others houses- and where authorities are paying for the goods of burnt houses- the mobs now simply take the furniture and refurbishments- so as to prevent recovery of damage!

Mother Theressa protected the poor- these terrorists, without great opposition- are trying to take all wealth from her fruits- and to destroy their salvation in Christ, and their human rights!

What Peter had to eat? Prophesy and the church!

2008-09-25T00:22:00.000-07:00

( c.f. Karl Keating Newsletter sept 23)

Article by Marc Aupiais

Saint Peter is Famous for being told to eat unclean food on a sheet- by God- and being told he was wrong to call it unclean.

The notable thing is not that God calls all unclean- or clean- he doesn't- acts 15 proves this- but that he shall determine that- not Peter- but Peter's authority in this is instantly accepted by all the important Christians he speaks with on this.

Karls point, unlike my own- is not on Peter though- but his belief that Cornellius has a more important conversion than that of Saint Paul- as he opened the way for us Gentiles to receive Christ! The fulfillment of Isaac's prophesy- when he appears to lie to Abraham about being firstborn!

Injustice always a concern

2008-09-24T11:45:00.000-07:00

Commentary by Marc Aupiais

What people sometimes do not comprehend- is that since God took human form- every injustice- however small- whether against a Catholic or not matters- whether or not the victim cares.

When evil is fighting itself- if it is left to this- will not the worse evil benefit- in that when evil is divided- either it is between less and worse evil- or else between strong and weak.

It is always in the interest of the prudent Catholic to ensure justice in Natural Law occurs- in that an environment of injustice- where life is not treated justly is the open doorway to the persecution of good by evil- and the training ground in which this first occurs.

Why Catholic media needs support- and the fight for truth

2008-09-24T07:18:00.000-07:00

commentary by Marc Aupiais

So often- we see it- things we know as true- portrayed otherwise- and more- people mimic what they see and hear.

With so much bad- it is learnt of others- with so much good- we must refine it.

The weapon we are given is dynamic- but stable- to the untrained- it is deadly and like a whip or many martial weapons- it can hurt us more than it hurts others if not wielded adequately.

The Catholic is a master of truth- or rather- a conduit for Her power-

When we see any form of media- what is said has slight hinting- which alters us if we allow alteration- our social conscience is molded by what we see- and we sense this if we view different media with different persons- not only is truth objective- but the viewer is oft influenced by experience- and ideals of others.

To influence for good- we must fight for truth in every nook and cranny- and through every inch of time- we must secretly conquer the enemy-

Christians must become the creative minority they were born to become-

the Spartan Warriors- who are like calm masters of form- who control themselves first- and let their form be molded by intuitive truth- and the urge for reality- we must open ourselves to sorrow and joy- so that in both- hope is blown into existence in this storm of our existence.

What is instilled in the home- is so powerful- and we must fight this battle to our last breath- what is instilled by others also has impact- yet in even the nuances of speech- of medias- we must fight for the value of life- and of existence and of seeing reality as it is.

Those who fight the small battles for truth- often are able to fight titanic monstrosities- all the while swirling truth about as a hidden weapon- and springing like a tiger, or wild animal- with that energy below the visible boundary- so as to teach truth- and dispel falsity and false world-view.

Our world-view is the front on which our soul is won- this is what we mean when we say faith saves- the correct view of reality- is paramount to navigating this ocean we find ourselves barely visible against- as we sail the impossibility of the hurricane of life.

We must protect this- and mold it- so as to better channel the saints triumphant- and our God- Reality (a Translation of the Tetragrammaton)- who is truth himself, whose strands we rely on to lift us and move us in our floating dance of truth!

Sanity and the divine pursuit of Orthodoxy

2008-09-24T03:42:00.000-07:00

Article by Marc Aupiais

When we speak of Orthodoxy- often we actually mean fidelity- or else remaining within an organization's party line.

We sometimes also believe the Orthodox way- to refer to the better, or true, or historic means of doing something!

But what is Orthodoxy? It is not the go-between between liberalism and conservatism, nor liberalism and traditionalism- neither is it traditionalism, conservatism or liberalism- each of which periodically changes meaning.

Orthodoxy- cannot be subjected to any one viewpoint- yet- it often refers to what a viewpoint believes as true.

In truth- orthodoxy is the pursuit of truth above all- and the determination to obey this truth utterly- the problem then is how one defines truth.

If truth is what an organization, or consensus says it is- then Orthodoxy is perhaps fidelity to that Organization- otherwise- Orthodoxy is fidelity to Reality- to the pursuit of manifesting to the world what is as it is.

Ultimately- the early Christians were killed for being what society saw as insane- they preached that someone recently alive had risen from a horrid death- had eaten on rising, and could be eaten body and soul in the Eucharist, and survived- and would spare or condemn us all for our single smallest thoughts- and lifestyle- more than that- that this person was God himself- and gives ceremonies to people- which could free them from bad lifestyles.

For this- they were whipped, slaughtered and martyred. Even they admitted they appeared insane- "foolish" (Saint Paul) to all apposing them!

Those who were martyred, believed it was the most sane course of action- they were loyal to their view of truth- to their take on sanity- and for this utter pursuit- show that they absolutely believed what they taught.

Those who use words like liberty- use a word referring to freedom- therefore- whenever the status quot changes- that which is more liberal changes- and also that which is more traditional or conservative.

Orthodoxy- the form given by God- is the pursuit of truth with all our soul, and body- and manifestation of this in obedience to sanity in truth in every moment of existence.

True Orthodoxy is the pursuit of truth above all else- not scientific truth- nor philosophical truth- but rather truth itself- which manifest so often in the intuitive!

Indian Catholics under persecution- international community remains silent

2008-09-23T23:49:00.000-07:00

( c.f. Zenit news, Vatican Radio, EWTN)
article by Marc Aupiais

The Indian government- and international community, especially Europe have been called upon to do more for the Christian communities in India, facing waves of mass violence- and who have been forced to flee to camps- under Hindu Extremist attacks. This includes the arrests of "sisters of charity" nuns- based on charges which proved false- by local authorities- and other events.

The Sisters of Charity are founded by Mother Theressa- and are known more for their charitible works than for evangelism-

The thousands of Christian homes and buildings burnt to the ground of late- are testimony to the sickening silence of the press on this issue- once again the international community is silent as a tactical genocide is being conducted.

Analysts believe the attacks could spread to Europe and other nations unless some action is taken!

South African Catholics need to pray for their own protection and that of Indian Christians- silence always aids the oppressor-

Whenever one is witness to persecution of Christians- or Catholics, or caimpaigns of disinformation as in India- it is the duty of the Catholic to stand firm- as Saint Paul writes in the Bible- "The spiritual man judges all things"-

We must not remain silent in this- or in any persecution of our faith!

Pope- bishops must be Holy

2008-09-23T03:44:00.000-07:00

(c.f. Zenit news)Today the pope addressed many bishops- saying that if they desire to create fruit of salvation- they must live holy lives- seeking sanctity!

How to reconcile what is taught with what we believe- or how to clarify if another is not to be saying as they are!

2008-09-19T22:09:00.000-07:00

(Catholic Watchdog South Africa )As a watchdog organization, and myself as a lay Catholic Theologian, and apologist- I often deal with persons scandalized because on decisions by bishops, or the church- which they dissagree with.

As we grow in faith- there are some ways to retain it when you disagree with doctrines.
Further- we must know that either there is a misunderstanding or an error- truth does not contradict truth.

And we must never be at odds with the magisterium- for this is schism or heresy- but must always seek the truth to have a foundation to faith and love!

1) We should seek to understand Mother Church's thinking- perhaps her experts see what we don't- have we never been wrong before- perhaps we should change our view and not her servants. Of course there are persons who teach heresy and this is wrong, but shown as not a disproof of truth- by Jesus choosing Judas as an apostle!
2)People are human- make mistakes, and are misunderstood- these could be enough to help us.

3) Talk to someone- always consider help from within the church- have you considered talking to Opus Dei or a parish priest- ask for an hour's spiritual guidance- at least one of the many in the area should give it.

4) Pray about it- ask for guidance- and God's will in both your lives- and determine to begin prayers for the salvation of those leading in the church- and their aid in the Spirit of our Lord.

5) Consider a second opinion- and perhaps attempt to save the person in the wrong- or prevent them from further damage!

Remember- mother church is a teacher-

We may not agree with her- but as our 2000 year old mother- she has got wisdom- even as parts of her go astray.

Recommended reading- acts 15, acts 5 verse 4.

See how in both cases- a human authority is acting validly in God's name-

this Authority is our beloved church!

-Marc

Heresy watch- how to spot bad doctrine- even from bishops, and why sometimes the heirachi errs!

2008-09-19T04:45:00.001-07:00

Now, we know that the magisterium of the church speaks from God- but that the individual bishops do not divinely preach the faith- but rather are trained to be good judges of heresy.

Unfortunately- many bishops- the heirs of Arius, and Eusebus- choose to front ideas not from inside the church- but from their culture and society.

Politics makes this worse- people are told to attend protestant churches, or not to put their moral code on others- or not to judge in any circumstance- or to forgive without justice or repentance-

So, how do we attempt to save our beloved church from such-

from an environment where Orthodoxy is often punished,
and separatist groups sometimes grow faster than the church?

The answer firstly is to focus on yourself!

If the litergy is abused- make sure this is in no way your sin.
If you read something from a church authority- judge it according to what you are accustomed to hearing from a bishop, and try to find what the source of this information is.

Is it the infallible Magisterium, or a bishop's personal opinion.

Opinion is oft unfortunately disguised as dogma- books like the "Modern Catholic Encyclopedia", carrying imprimatur often attack the teachings of the magisterium- this particular book's one author attacks the divinity of Christ.

Another popular book to be sold by Catholic bookstores is "a concise history of the church", it claims to be more conserative- but its statements about confession fall under the anathemas of Trent, and it often misrepresents information.

Other heirachical structures say that all religions are equal- and we must not judge or preach to those of other faiths- or must keep away from making laws in accordance with our morality.

Simply put- those things which come from the Traditions we are told in the bible to always hold to, those who hold to what we heard in the start- are those who are not pruned off of the vine, which is Christ.

When listening to a priest, confessor, bishop, diocesan official-

Be realistic- they are as likely to fall into heresy as any person here-
They are better trained at times, though often Seminary can be the source of their problems- rather - look into the backing of what they say- see where in the magisterium and tradition their words corrolate-

If you cannot find a correlation, but only a rough meaning they wrongly believe to be the "spirit" of works, like the spirit of a crowd, then discount their statement, and look into what the truth is- further- try to aid your fellows in this truth.

Unfortunately two things often occur- firstly, the best of speakers are misquoted, or misunderstood- or speak in a specific context.

Secondly- some bishops and priests and deacons and laymen believe they have a grasp of Catholicism, but without the true Reality of it within- and so front what their culture tells them to, or what that more radical teacher at seminary said.

With both- discussion of your scandal (harm caused by another's sin on a fellow) at this- may either clarify the issue, or save your fellows from the heresy of but one small section of the church- acting in isolation from truth.

Now- a small amount of good in an evil organization has an evil effect- in justifying and maintaining the evil, but a small amount of evil in a good organization- while it should be cleaved off- does not always affect the working of the whole- and it is God who works in the Divine Magisterium, and in the Sacraments- the mortal state of the worker of these- is not needed to be safe for them to work.

As even the Early church said- the feet are not to be the head of the church-
yet, the bishops will have to answer for how they pruned the flock of God.

It is those guilty of sin, or who are silent about this- who partake fully in it.

Admittadly the Church, in western society- has in some places a deadly cancer-

But organizations like Opus Dei, and like internet apolostates, and the Vatican website- are there- but we must not rely on others solely to grow us- we must ourselves research the truth, even as the inspiring Catechism of Baltemore- tells us to!

-Marc Aupiais

Watchdog to watch South African elements for benefit of Catholic conscience and Social Justice

2008-09-18T06:42:00.000-07:00

This site is set up by Scripturelink to be a watchdog over affairs affecting Catholics.