KING JESUS IS COMING FOR US ANY TIME NOW. THE RAPTURE. BE PREPARED TO GO.
These two bits of information appear to contradict the prophecy of the Irish Bishop Armagh Malachy, which was written in the mid-1100's and first published in 1595. In his writings, Saint Malachy predicted that this pope would be the last pope before the Great Tribulation. Malachy predicted that he would be called Petrus Romanus or Peter the Roman. I've reported on Saint Malachy's famous prophecy at least three times on this program. Each time, I noted that it was not from the Bible and had to be viewed through the lens of skepticism. Nonetheless, it is an intriguing bit of history. Especially in light of the fact that the previous pope, Benedict XVI, shocked the world when he abruptly decided to retire rather than die in office as is the papal tradition. In fact, it has been more than 600 years since a pope stepped down. That means that this pope -- which Malachy prophesied would be the last before the rise of the Antichrist and the consequent destruction of the Roman church -- has assumed the papal throne unexpectedly and at precisely the moment when all of the other signs the ancient Bible prophets foretold for the last days are in full display. And that is exactly what makes this non-Biblical (and apparently incorrect) "prophecy" still so remarkable. The "last pope" -- according to Bishop Malachy -- appears on the scene in the "last days" of the "last days"-- according to several Bible prophets, including Jesus Himself. Contrary to what some rumors are suggesting, I have never implied that the pope of the Roman church will be the Antichrist. I wouldn't suggest that because I do not believe that will be the case. However, the Apostle John in the Book of the Revelation describes very plainly how the leader of the world religious system (based in Rome) will pave the way for the rise of the man who will be the Antichrist. Unfortunately for that churchman, the Antichrist and the False Prophet will later turn on him and destroy the religious system and the city. Like I said, the name is not right, the birthplace is not right, but the timing certainly is. If I were the captain of a commercial airliner, right about this time I'd be telling you to buckle your seat belts, we're ready to take off! This week, I'll take a closer look at Pope Francis, the simple and humble pastor who is now the leader of the world's 1.2 billion Catholics. Talk about polar opposites! This week, I'll also take a closer look at the self-declared "Supreme Leader" of the world's nastiest nuclear power, North Korea. Kim Jong-un, the intemperate, self-absorbed, chest-beating, child of privilege who inherited the reins of power -- and an indeterminate nuclear arsenal -- has decided to prove his machismo. He has declared the 1953 Korean armistice, "no longer valid." He has ordered his generals and troops to prepare for "all out war." He has cut the hotline to South Korea and he has threatened South Korea and the United States with nuclear attack. In the past, this kind of posturing has been nothing more than a shakedown of the West for more money and food. But what makes this situation different is that this "Supreme Leader" appears not to be following the advice of his father's and grandfather's advisers. He has turned up the heat, but he doesn't have the experience to gauge how far he can reasonably carry the charade if, indeed, it is another shakedown. There's always the chance that one of his "enemies" will misjudge the situation and "respond" in advance. I'll also review Israel's newly installed government. Though Benjamin Netanyahu remains Israel's Prime Minister, because of his Likud Party's poor showing in the recent Knesset elections, he has had to cobble together a rather shaky coalition that includes some surprising new partners. This is the first time that a conservative Israeli government has included no ultra-Orthodox religious parties. On top of that, it includes Netanyahu's rival, Tzipi Livni, who will be the Minister of Justice and be responsible for the Palestinian peace negotiations. Two things to watch about Ms. Livni: First, she has demonstrated time and again that she'll give the store to the Palestinians for nothing in return. Second, she now heads the Ministry of Justice, which, in Israel, is notorious for undermining the efforts of any conservative leadership.
Don't loosen those seat belts! Finally, this week's program is one of the most difficult I have ever produced. That's because I am saying "goodbye" to one of my dearest friends and associates. Over the course of our lives, we have many different kinds of friendships. The best are forged in fire. No one is as close as the friend who stands with you in the heat of battle, encourages you when you're too exhausted to move, and always has your back when the critics rage. For me, Jack Kinsella was such a friend. He was truly my spiritual son.
Jack was a brilliant theologian and a powerful writer and speaker. Through his ministry, OmegaLetter.com, and his speaking, he brought many people to faith in Christ. He taught tens of thousands more how to grow in Christ. He also became one of the world's leading teachers in Bible prophecy. He was my dear friend for 22 years. He also worked with me as the chief researcher for "The International Intelligence Briefing" and "The Hal Lindsey Report." He helped me write most of the editions of both of those television series. On Thursday, March 14th, Jack went to be with the Lord. It's really tough to say goodbye to such a friend, but it's also wonderful to know that he's now face-to-face with Jesus. We will all miss Jack terribly, but I know he is rejoicing to be finally home at last and free from the pain of this world. Please pray for Jack's wife, Gayle, and his family. I also encourage those of you who have followed Jack's ministry through his website, OmegaLetter.com, to continue to support it. The ministers in his family plan to publish the many messages that Jack wrote, but did not get a chance to teach. Goodbye, my friend. You are gone, but will never be forgotten. I have no doubt that we'll all be together again soon. Maranatha! Don't miss this week's Report here Sunday. God Bless, Hal Lindsey - http://www.hallindsey.com/
5 FUNDAMENTALS OF THE CHRISTIAN FAITH
http://israndjer.blogspot.ca/2013/03/5-beliefs-of-christianity-for-unity-in.html
POPE VIDEOS-ROMEREPORTS
NEVER EVER DID I EVER THINK THIS WOULD HAPPEN.AN EX POPE 16TH AND THE CURRENT POPE FRANCIS 1 PRAYING WITH EACH OTHER AT Castel Gandolfo-----AMAZING
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uwOn2ItbvqE&list=UUxshhzR907v2w6DjICyAgLQ&index=1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hKHYNKb_U-E&list=UUxshhzR907v2w6DjICyAgLQ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TsHf7F1qddg&list=UUxshhzR907v2w6DjICyAgLQ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gF2opyHOikM&list=UUxshhzR907v2w6DjICyAgLQ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qISFaOxG8xI&list=UUxshhzR907v2w6DjICyAgLQ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DhuJFc2e37c&list=UUxshhzR907v2w6DjICyAgLQ
ALL POPE NEWS I DONE
http://israndjer.blogspot.ca/2013/02/stock-results-feb-112013.html
BUENOS AIRES — Nearly every July
18, the bitter anniversary of the 1994 truck bombing that ripped apart a
Jewish community here, Archbishop Jorge Mario Bergoglio would arrive to
pay tribute at a memorial to the 85 victims.He came on other occasions, too, often showing up on foot after catching the subway to the rebuilt Argentine Israeli Mutual Association,
its entrance now fortified by blast walls and thick bollards. In the
visitor log book, the archbishop left a message in 2010, his handwriting
almost too small to read.
“I thank the Lord for allowing me to share this path with elder
brothers,” it read. It was signed “Jorge Mario Bergoglio,” leaving off
any formal title.“In the maximum leader of the Christian world,” said Guillermo Borger, the association president, “We have an ally.”The
interfaith relationships built by Cardinal Bergoglio in Argentina
underscore an approach to religious diversity that observers say could
differ substantially from the papacy of Benedict XVI, whose tenure was
marked by a mixed record of controversial statements and
misunderstandings. In contrast, during his time as cardinal, Pope
Francis became largely known for tolerance and peaceful cohabitation
with non-Catholics.Argentina’s sizable Muslim community has
praised Francis for facilitating interfaith dialogue during the 14 years
he was archbishop of Buenos Aires. The secretary general of the Islamic Center of the Argentine Republic,
Sumer Noufouri, said he regularly attended an annual Mass convened by
Bergoglio to celebrate Argentina’s Independence Day, alongside the
country’s Jewish leaders.
“He is a person who listens and who knows Islam,” said Noufouri, who described Bergoglio’s elevation to pope as “an opportunity for a fresh start in relations between Islam and the Catholic Church,” particularly at a time of growing “Islamophobia in Europe.”Vatican insiders say Francis’s history of building bridges, along with his attempt to quickly transform the lofty office of the papacy through humanity and simplicity, may already be paying off.Experts point to the rare decision by Bartholomew I, spiritual leader of the Eastern Orthodox Church, to attend Tuesday’s papal induction, becoming the first to do so since at least the Great Schism of 1054. Observers said the decision appeared to be linked to Francis’s closeness to Byzantine Catholics in Buenos Aires, who hold traditions similar to those of the Eastern Orthodox faith.Francis would meet with leaders of Christian and non-Christian churches at the “same moment, not two different moments,” the Rev. Thomas Rosica, a Vatican spokesman, stressed before that session last week.Said John Thavis, author of “The Vatican Diaries”: “If Francis keeps making it clear that he is not exalting himself, that he sees the papal office as less authoritarian from the top, as more collegial, we could see some huge movements in ecumenical relations.”That would stand in contrast with the past eight years, when Benedict’s papacy saw occasionally strained relations between the Vatican and other faiths, particularly with Muslims and Jews.
Papal comparisons
In one sense, Benedict sought to build his own bridges. For example, he openly endorsed the stalled bid for Turkey to join the European Union, even as the traditionally secular state became increasingly religious under Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, a devout Muslim. He also called on Catholics in Europe to embrace immigrants from the Islamic world.Following a papacy marked by a mixed record, the new pope is being praised for interfaith diplomacy.Benedict also had a history of developing closer relations with the Jewish community, becoming the first pope to visit a synagogue in the United States and once describing the Jewish faith as “particularly close to us.”Yet as the defender of the Catholic faith, Benedict also became known for divisive pronouncements. The most controversial was a 2006 speech in Germany, when he quoted a text attributed to the 14th-century Byzantine Emperor Manuel II Palaiologos that denounced the teachings of the prophet Muhammad as “evil” and “inhuman.” The move sparked protests in Muslim countries, leading to churches being burned and the images of the pope burned in effigy.Also during Benedict’s tenure, the Vatican reversed the excommunication of Richard Nelson Williamson, a bishop who called Jews “enemies of God” and questioned the Holocaust.In Francis’s first days, however, religious leaders say the new pope appears to be reaching out those of other faiths, though it remains to be seen whether that will last. Speaking of Benedict, Riccardo Di Segni, the chief rabbi of Rome, said that “from a purely theological point of view, he was very strict.”By comparison, Francis, who sent Di Segni a personal invitation to attend his induction, has “in his first few days shown a different approach. He is talking about repentance, about mercy.”
But, Di Segni added: “It is still too early to say
how this pope will be. Everything I’ve heard is that he had good
relations with the Jewish community in Argentina, but now he is the
leader of the Catholic Church. What works as bishop may not work as
pope.”Benedict, now known as the pope emeritus, earned the ire of
some Anglicans for creating “ordinariates.” These were new church
structures that allowed conservative Anglicans to convert to
Catholicism. They were particularly aimed at conservatives who were
frustrated with their own progressive hierarchy’s move to embrace female
and gay clergy.But according to Bishop Gregory Venables, the
Anglican bishop of Argentina, Bergoglio was apparently skeptical of
Benedict’s move. Bergoglio “called me to have breakfast with him one
morning and told me very clearly that the ordinariate was quite
unnecessary and that the church needs us as Anglicans,” Venables told
the Anglican Communion News Service.
‘A facilitator for peace’
Archbishop Vincenzo Paglia, president of the Vatican’s Pontifical Council for the Family, said perhaps most telling of the new pope’s intensions with other faiths was his decision to honor the St. Francis of Assisi.
“When he chose his name, he knew full well that it would ease dialogue with other religions, including Islam,” Paglia said. “When the Crusades were going on, Francis of Assisi went to Egypt to speak with the sultan. While others were using the sword, he used the word.”Borger, the Jewish community leader in Buenos Aires, said in Bergoglio he found “a simple, humble man” who is committed to social justice. “He spoke out constantly against anti-Semitism and any other form of discrimination,” Borger said. “He will be a facilitator for peace.”The last time Bergoglio visited the center, Borger said, he accompanied him down to the street and out through the center’s heavy steel doors. The archbishop bid a warm goodbye, he said, then began walking toward the subway.Faiola reported from Vatican City. Researcher Julie Tate in Washington and Stefano Pitrelli in Rome contributed to this report.
What is the significance of the meeting between the reigning Pope and the Pope Emeritus in Castel Gandolfo?
“It is an important gesture of communication which stems from previously established human contact. Francis’ election is based on Benedict XVI’s resignation which marked the need for a greater strength of body and soul in the Church’s government. It is the conclusion of a process which began last 11 February. The first steps taken by the new Pope mark a strong continuity in terms of the perception of a much needed reform.”
Is this a case of one Pope passing on the baton to another?
“Yes, it is. In this case the baton represents the need to face the Church’s most important challenges. Given the very obvious difference in the roles of the two figures, we should consider this as a highly enriching exchange between two extremely prominent figures. This exchange takes place within the symbolic context of the two names, Francis and Benedict. Bergoglio faces the anthropological challenges which Joseph Ratzinger faced before him. In his audience with the diplomatic corps, Francis recalled the “spiritual poverty” which afflicts rich countries as well. Ratzinger had condemned this spiritual poverty when he criticised the “dictatorship of relativism.” This dictatorship, the new Pope commented, lets everyone measure themselves against themselves and puts peaceful co-existence between humans at risk. Francis’ comments are brief and rhythmic but at the same time have that soft accent that is typical of Argentineans.”
Which issue does Francis see as more important?
“To fight against material and spiritual poverty and build peace and bridges. The main reason why he chose the name Francis is the love the saint of Assisi had for the poor, interpreted within St. Ignatius’ school of thought. Following in the footsteps of St. Francis, the Church is called to look after the destitute in all corners of the Earth. Many points contained in the texts he wrote before he was elected to the throne of Peter, are based on Benedict XVI’s magisterium. Of course their approaches are different as they stem from two different experiences. The expectations Francis created are also linked to the fact that he comes from a continent (Latin America) that is far from Europe in terms of human temperature, but there is no point in focusing too much on comparisons.” Why?
“Each pontificate should be judged independently, according to the actions performed during it. Measuring the continuity or discontinuity between pontificates does not give the whole picture. It is also too early to draw conclusions about Francis when he has only been Pope for a few days. We need to pay attention to his words and actions. Each action needs to be seen in relation to the individual style of the figure who performs it. Francis developed his style mainly in South America but as a member of the Company of Jesus he also studied in Spain and completed his PhD in Germany. Francis is a natural communicator, a sober, simple and blunt but extremely efficient style. Francis likes to walk down the paths taken by people and considers self-referentiality to be the worst spiritual temptation for the Church.”
Francis’ first days as Pope were marked by a heavy focus on the differences between him and his predecessor. It is true that Bergoglio’s mission is characterised by a simple style, continuously breaking rigid protocol, as Wojtyla had done since the start of his pontificate. But urban myths started to circulate within the first few hours of his papacy. According to one of these rumours, straight after his election, Francis apparently refused to wear the red velvet mozzetta trimmed with (synthetic) ermine, saying to the Master of Papal Ceremonies, Guido Marini: “You can wear it! The carnival’s over.” A rude and boorish comment to make to the Master of Ceremonies. As far as Vatican Insider has learnt, said comment was never made. As Marini placed the mozzetta on Francis, the Pope simply said: “I would prefer you didn’t.” No reference was made the carnival and no humiliating comment was made against the Master of Ceremonies.The real continuity between Benedict XVI and Francis is seen in the many gestures, hints and points of focus that have emerged in these first days of Francis’ pontificate: The day after Francis’ election, Benedict XVI said that “the Pope makes Christ’s light - not his own - shine wherever he goes. In a meeting with journalists Francis stressed that the “protagonist” is Christ, not the Pope.Their sensitivity for the protection of creation – which humans are at the top of – and the environment is something the two popes have in common. Then there are their thoughts on careerism and “spiritual worldliness” in the Church: anyone who has listened to one of Ratzinger’s deep homilies on these issues cannot deny there is continuity between his ideas and Francis’. Only those who are not familiar with his writings on the liturgy could be led to think that they gave importance to superficial aspects. In as far as the discontinuity between Ratzinger and Bergoglio is concerned; we need to ask ourselves to what extent Benedict XVI’s collaborators helped him deliver his core message. Just as Paul VI should be rescued from certain “Montinians” who consider themselves to be the only ones authorised to keep his memory alive through their own vision of his papacy, so Benedict XVI should be salvaged from certain “Ratzingerians” who have tried on more than one occasion to teach him how to be Pope.
"May grace and peace be multiplied to you" (1 Pet 1:2b)
I thank you for the kind words contained in your message to me at my election, and I wish in turn to offer my greetings and best wishes on the occasion of your Enthronement at Canterbury Cathedral.
The pastoral ministry is a call to walk in fidelity to the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. Please be assured of my prayers as you take up your new responsibilities, and I ask you to pray for me as I respond to the new call that the Lord has addressed to me.
I look forward to meeting you in the near future, and to continuing the warm fraternal relations that our predecessors enjoyed.The message was simply signed, “Francis”.
President
Barack Obama walks with Jordanian Foreign Minister Nasser Judeh, right,
upon his arrival at Queen Alia International Airport in Amman, Jordan,
March 22, 2013.
U.S. President Barack Obama arrived in Jordan Friday following a visit
to Israel and the West Bank that included talks with Israeli and
Palestinian leaders and calls for the two sides to resume peace efforts.Obama was given a red-carpet welcome upon landing at Queen Alia
International Airport in Amman, then was driven to King Abdullah's
residence where he was welcomed by a military band.
Later today he is expected to meet with King Abdullah in his residence,
where the conversation is expected to touch on Syrian refugees in
Jordan, Jordan's economic reforms, bilateral ties and the
Israeli-Palestinian peace process.
Obama's arrival to Jordan was delayed due to a sandstorm that engulfed the region during the morning. Earlier Friday, he travelled to Bethlehem to join Palestinian President
Mahmoud Abbas for a tour of the Church of the Nativity, the site where
Christians believe Jesus was born. Also on Friday, the president visited Israel's Holocaust memorial, Yad Vashem, where he called for tolerance against others.
"This is our obligation: not simply to bear witness, but to act. For us,
in our time, this means confronting bigotry and hatred in all of its
forms, racism, especially anti-Semitism, none of that has a place in the
civilized world," he said.Accompanied by Peres and Netanyahu, Obama spoke after viewing the Hall
of Names: a circular room ringed by thousands of volumes containing
names of people killed in the Holocaust.
During his visit to Israel, the president took part in a wreath-laying
ceremony at the graves of Theodor Herzl - the founder of the movement to
establish a Jewish state - and slain Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin.
On Thursday, in a speech to university students in Jerusalem, Obama
assured his audience of young Israelis that they are "not alone" in
facing threats to Israel's security. He added that peace with the
Palestinians is the "only path to true security."
Obama said Israeli leaders must recognize that "continued settlement activity" on land the Palestinians claim for a state is "counterproductive." Obama also said he believes Israel has a genuine peace partner in Palestinian President Abbas. Israeli press reported Friday that Obama met with Netanyahu for several hours Friday to brief the Israeli prime minister on his talks with Abbas.
AMMAN, Jordan — Anxious to keep
Syria’s civil war from spiraling into bigger problems, President Barack
Obama said Friday he worries about the country becoming a haven for
extremists when — not if — President Bashar Assad is ousted from power.The president, standing side by side with Jordan’s King
Abdullah II, said the international community must work together to
ensure there is a credible opposition ready to step into the breach in
Syria.“Something has been broken in Syria, and it’s not going to be put
back together perfectly immediately — even after Assad leaves,” Obama
said. “But we can begin the process of moving it in a better direction,
and having a cohesive opposition is critical to that.”Trying to
resolve another source of tension in the region, the president helped
broker a phone call between the Israeli and Turkish prime ministers that
led to agreement to restore normal diplomatic relations between the two
countries.
“The timing was good for that conversation to take place,” Obama said.
This week on 'The Hal Lindsey Report' - FOR MAR 22,13 SHOW
On Tuesday, March 19, Jorge Mario Bergoglio, the Archbishop of Buenos Aires, Argentina, was officially installed as the Supreme Pontiff of the Roman Catholic church. He will rule as Pope Francis. He is not from Rome, or even Italy. He did not choose the name Peter. (None of the church's popes has dared call himself Peter in deference to Simon Peter, the Apostle and the man that Catholics consider to be the first pope.)These two bits of information appear to contradict the prophecy of the Irish Bishop Armagh Malachy, which was written in the mid-1100's and first published in 1595. In his writings, Saint Malachy predicted that this pope would be the last pope before the Great Tribulation. Malachy predicted that he would be called Petrus Romanus or Peter the Roman. I've reported on Saint Malachy's famous prophecy at least three times on this program. Each time, I noted that it was not from the Bible and had to be viewed through the lens of skepticism. Nonetheless, it is an intriguing bit of history. Especially in light of the fact that the previous pope, Benedict XVI, shocked the world when he abruptly decided to retire rather than die in office as is the papal tradition. In fact, it has been more than 600 years since a pope stepped down. That means that this pope -- which Malachy prophesied would be the last before the rise of the Antichrist and the consequent destruction of the Roman church -- has assumed the papal throne unexpectedly and at precisely the moment when all of the other signs the ancient Bible prophets foretold for the last days are in full display. And that is exactly what makes this non-Biblical (and apparently incorrect) "prophecy" still so remarkable. The "last pope" -- according to Bishop Malachy -- appears on the scene in the "last days" of the "last days"-- according to several Bible prophets, including Jesus Himself. Contrary to what some rumors are suggesting, I have never implied that the pope of the Roman church will be the Antichrist. I wouldn't suggest that because I do not believe that will be the case. However, the Apostle John in the Book of the Revelation describes very plainly how the leader of the world religious system (based in Rome) will pave the way for the rise of the man who will be the Antichrist. Unfortunately for that churchman, the Antichrist and the False Prophet will later turn on him and destroy the religious system and the city. Like I said, the name is not right, the birthplace is not right, but the timing certainly is. If I were the captain of a commercial airliner, right about this time I'd be telling you to buckle your seat belts, we're ready to take off! This week, I'll take a closer look at Pope Francis, the simple and humble pastor who is now the leader of the world's 1.2 billion Catholics. Talk about polar opposites! This week, I'll also take a closer look at the self-declared "Supreme Leader" of the world's nastiest nuclear power, North Korea. Kim Jong-un, the intemperate, self-absorbed, chest-beating, child of privilege who inherited the reins of power -- and an indeterminate nuclear arsenal -- has decided to prove his machismo. He has declared the 1953 Korean armistice, "no longer valid." He has ordered his generals and troops to prepare for "all out war." He has cut the hotline to South Korea and he has threatened South Korea and the United States with nuclear attack. In the past, this kind of posturing has been nothing more than a shakedown of the West for more money and food. But what makes this situation different is that this "Supreme Leader" appears not to be following the advice of his father's and grandfather's advisers. He has turned up the heat, but he doesn't have the experience to gauge how far he can reasonably carry the charade if, indeed, it is another shakedown. There's always the chance that one of his "enemies" will misjudge the situation and "respond" in advance. I'll also review Israel's newly installed government. Though Benjamin Netanyahu remains Israel's Prime Minister, because of his Likud Party's poor showing in the recent Knesset elections, he has had to cobble together a rather shaky coalition that includes some surprising new partners. This is the first time that a conservative Israeli government has included no ultra-Orthodox religious parties. On top of that, it includes Netanyahu's rival, Tzipi Livni, who will be the Minister of Justice and be responsible for the Palestinian peace negotiations. Two things to watch about Ms. Livni: First, she has demonstrated time and again that she'll give the store to the Palestinians for nothing in return. Second, she now heads the Ministry of Justice, which, in Israel, is notorious for undermining the efforts of any conservative leadership.
Don't loosen those seat belts! Finally, this week's program is one of the most difficult I have ever produced. That's because I am saying "goodbye" to one of my dearest friends and associates. Over the course of our lives, we have many different kinds of friendships. The best are forged in fire. No one is as close as the friend who stands with you in the heat of battle, encourages you when you're too exhausted to move, and always has your back when the critics rage. For me, Jack Kinsella was such a friend. He was truly my spiritual son.
Jack was a brilliant theologian and a powerful writer and speaker. Through his ministry, OmegaLetter.com, and his speaking, he brought many people to faith in Christ. He taught tens of thousands more how to grow in Christ. He also became one of the world's leading teachers in Bible prophecy. He was my dear friend for 22 years. He also worked with me as the chief researcher for "The International Intelligence Briefing" and "The Hal Lindsey Report." He helped me write most of the editions of both of those television series. On Thursday, March 14th, Jack went to be with the Lord. It's really tough to say goodbye to such a friend, but it's also wonderful to know that he's now face-to-face with Jesus. We will all miss Jack terribly, but I know he is rejoicing to be finally home at last and free from the pain of this world. Please pray for Jack's wife, Gayle, and his family. I also encourage those of you who have followed Jack's ministry through his website, OmegaLetter.com, to continue to support it. The ministers in his family plan to publish the many messages that Jack wrote, but did not get a chance to teach. Goodbye, my friend. You are gone, but will never be forgotten. I have no doubt that we'll all be together again soon. Maranatha! Don't miss this week's Report here Sunday. God Bless, Hal Lindsey - http://www.hallindsey.com/
5 FUNDAMENTALS OF THE CHRISTIAN FAITH
http://israndjer.blogspot.ca/2013/03/5-beliefs-of-christianity-for-unity-in.html
POPE VIDEOS-ROMEREPORTS
NEVER EVER DID I EVER THINK THIS WOULD HAPPEN.AN EX POPE 16TH AND THE CURRENT POPE FRANCIS 1 PRAYING WITH EACH OTHER AT Castel Gandolfo-----AMAZING
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uwOn2ItbvqE&list=UUxshhzR907v2w6DjICyAgLQ&index=1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hKHYNKb_U-E&list=UUxshhzR907v2w6DjICyAgLQ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TsHf7F1qddg&list=UUxshhzR907v2w6DjICyAgLQ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gF2opyHOikM&list=UUxshhzR907v2w6DjICyAgLQ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qISFaOxG8xI&list=UUxshhzR907v2w6DjICyAgLQ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DhuJFc2e37c&list=UUxshhzR907v2w6DjICyAgLQ
ALL POPE NEWS I DONE
http://israndjer.blogspot.ca/2013/02/stock-results-feb-112013.html
Pope promises 'respect' for all world religions
VATICAN CITY — Pope Francis on Wednesday promised "friendship and
respect" for all faiths at a meeting with representatives of major world
religions in the Vatican in which he said he felt "close" to
non-believers.The Roman Catholic Church would "promote friendship
and respect between men and women of different religions," the pope
said, a day after his formal inauguration in St Peter's Square."We
can do a lot for the good of people who are poor, who are weak, who
suffer... and to promote reconciliation and peace," the pope told other
Christian leaders and representatives of Buddhism, Islam and Judaism in
an ornate Vatican hall.Latin America's first pontiff said all
religions should be united against "one of the most dangerous pitfalls
of our time -- reducing human beings to what they produce and what they
consume."I very much appreciate your presence and I see in it a
sign of mutual respect and of cooperation for the common good of
humanity," he said.This was particularly important in a world of "divisions, confrontations and rivalries," he said.Francis
also told Jewish leaders he wanted to continue "a fraternal dialogue"
that began with the reformist Second Vatican Council of the 1960s, which
removed the notion of any Jewish blame for Jesus Christ's death in
Catholic doctrine.The 76-year-old pope also said he felt "close"
to those people who "do not recognise themselves in any faith but are in
a search for truth, for goodness and for beauty, which is God."The
reference echoed a "silent blessing" that Francis made on Saturday to
non-believers at a meeting with journalists from around the world."You are all children of God," he said on Saturday.Vatican
expert Sandro Magister, who writes for the Italian weekly L'Espresso,
said the references show "an attention to people without a religion"
that was particularly significant as the Church struggles with rising
secularism in many countries.The Ecumenical Patriarch of
Constantinople, Bartholomew I, the spiritual leader of the world's 250
million Orthodox Church, opened Wednesday's meeting.Bartholomew
was the first patriarch of Constantinople to attend a papal inauguration
since 1054 when the eastern and western halves of Christendom split in
the "Great Schism".In his address, Bartholomew referred to
Francis's experience as an archbishop in Argentina during that country's
devastating economic crisis.The world economic climate "demands
humanitarian action for which you already have great experience," he
said, referring to the "high, grave and difficult task" that Francis
will face.He said Christian unity was "our first and most
important concern" and called on the pope to "correct worldly
tendencies" in Christianity.Francis assured Bartholomew -- whom
he referred to as his "brother" -- of his "firm willingness to continue
with the path of ecumenical dialogue".Magister said these
assurances were very much "in line with his predecessor" Benedict XVI,
who was a keen promoter of inter-religious dialogue.Francis on
Wednesday also met with Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff, a former
leftist guerrilla fighter and atheist, who leads the country with the
highest number of Catholics in the world.The Vatican said
Rousseff had invited the pope to visit Rio de Janeiro for World Youth
Day in July but did not say whether the pope had accepted. In Pope Francis, other faiths see a friend
Following a papacy marked by a mixed record, the new pope is being praised for interfaith diplomacy.
“He is a person who listens and who knows Islam,” said Noufouri, who described Bergoglio’s elevation to pope as “an opportunity for a fresh start in relations between Islam and the Catholic Church,” particularly at a time of growing “Islamophobia in Europe.”Vatican insiders say Francis’s history of building bridges, along with his attempt to quickly transform the lofty office of the papacy through humanity and simplicity, may already be paying off.Experts point to the rare decision by Bartholomew I, spiritual leader of the Eastern Orthodox Church, to attend Tuesday’s papal induction, becoming the first to do so since at least the Great Schism of 1054. Observers said the decision appeared to be linked to Francis’s closeness to Byzantine Catholics in Buenos Aires, who hold traditions similar to those of the Eastern Orthodox faith.Francis would meet with leaders of Christian and non-Christian churches at the “same moment, not two different moments,” the Rev. Thomas Rosica, a Vatican spokesman, stressed before that session last week.Said John Thavis, author of “The Vatican Diaries”: “If Francis keeps making it clear that he is not exalting himself, that he sees the papal office as less authoritarian from the top, as more collegial, we could see some huge movements in ecumenical relations.”That would stand in contrast with the past eight years, when Benedict’s papacy saw occasionally strained relations between the Vatican and other faiths, particularly with Muslims and Jews.
Papal comparisons
In one sense, Benedict sought to build his own bridges. For example, he openly endorsed the stalled bid for Turkey to join the European Union, even as the traditionally secular state became increasingly religious under Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, a devout Muslim. He also called on Catholics in Europe to embrace immigrants from the Islamic world.Following a papacy marked by a mixed record, the new pope is being praised for interfaith diplomacy.Benedict also had a history of developing closer relations with the Jewish community, becoming the first pope to visit a synagogue in the United States and once describing the Jewish faith as “particularly close to us.”Yet as the defender of the Catholic faith, Benedict also became known for divisive pronouncements. The most controversial was a 2006 speech in Germany, when he quoted a text attributed to the 14th-century Byzantine Emperor Manuel II Palaiologos that denounced the teachings of the prophet Muhammad as “evil” and “inhuman.” The move sparked protests in Muslim countries, leading to churches being burned and the images of the pope burned in effigy.Also during Benedict’s tenure, the Vatican reversed the excommunication of Richard Nelson Williamson, a bishop who called Jews “enemies of God” and questioned the Holocaust.In Francis’s first days, however, religious leaders say the new pope appears to be reaching out those of other faiths, though it remains to be seen whether that will last. Speaking of Benedict, Riccardo Di Segni, the chief rabbi of Rome, said that “from a purely theological point of view, he was very strict.”By comparison, Francis, who sent Di Segni a personal invitation to attend his induction, has “in his first few days shown a different approach. He is talking about repentance, about mercy.”
‘A facilitator for peace’
Archbishop Vincenzo Paglia, president of the Vatican’s Pontifical Council for the Family, said perhaps most telling of the new pope’s intensions with other faiths was his decision to honor the St. Francis of Assisi.
“When he chose his name, he knew full well that it would ease dialogue with other religions, including Islam,” Paglia said. “When the Crusades were going on, Francis of Assisi went to Egypt to speak with the sultan. While others were using the sword, he used the word.”Borger, the Jewish community leader in Buenos Aires, said in Bergoglio he found “a simple, humble man” who is committed to social justice. “He spoke out constantly against anti-Semitism and any other form of discrimination,” Borger said. “He will be a facilitator for peace.”The last time Bergoglio visited the center, Borger said, he accompanied him down to the street and out through the center’s heavy steel doors. The archbishop bid a warm goodbye, he said, then began walking toward the subway.Faiola reported from Vatican City. Researcher Julie Tate in Washington and Stefano Pitrelli in Rome contributed to this report.
03/23/2013 VATICAN INSIDER
Francis and Benedict’s historic meeting: “We are brothers”
Ratzinger and Bergoglio
Francis invited Ratzinger to sit with him in the same pew and pray with him, rejecting his seat of honour. Meanwhile, a sealed envelope lay on the table
vatican insider staff rome After lunch they walked together and exchanged ideas on the Church’s priorities. They were both moved by the encounter and were aware they were the protagonists of an unprecedented historical event. The Vatican Television Centre showed images of Francis and Benedict conversing in a small drawing room. On the coffee table that stands between them is a white box containing some documents and on top of it is a sealed envelope. They knelt before the image of the Virgin Mary and prayed together.One would never have imagined such a sight a few weeks ago: two men dressed in white speaking like “brothers”. This lunchtime, Francis met Benedict XVI at Castel Gandolfo. “The helicopter landed at the Castel Gandolfo heliport at around 12:15 and the Pope Emeritus’ car approached the spot where the helicopter stood,” the Vatican spokesman, Fr. Lombardi said. Francis was accompanied by the Substitute of the Secretariat of State, Becciu and by Mgr. Sapienza and Mgr. Alfred Xuereb. When Bergoglio got down from the helicopter, the Pope Emeritus approached him and “there was a wonderful embrace between them.”After briefly greeting the other people present (the Bishop of Albano and the director of the Pontifical Villas, Petrillo), they got into the car Benedict XVI had arrived in. Francis got in on the right hand side, the side the Pope always sits on and Benedict sat on the left. The Prefect of the Papal Household, Mgr. Georg Gänswein, also took the same car which took them to the lifts which took them up to the apartment. They then went to the chapel to pray. “In the chapel, the Pope Emeritus offered Francis the seat of honour but the latter replied: “We are brothers,” and asked Ratzinger to kneel down with him at the same pew,” Fr. Lombardi said.After a brief moment of prayer, they went to the private Library where the private meeting started at 12:30. This is the library where the Pope usually receives important guests when he is at Castel Gandolfo. Francis gave the Pope Emeritus a beautiful icon as a gift, after which their conversation began. It lasted 45 minutes and ended at 13:15.“It should be noted that the Pope Emeritus wears a simple white cassock without a fascia (sash) or shoulder cape: it is these two garments that distinguish him from Francis who does wear a fascia and shoulder cape,” the Vatican spokesman stressed.The two secretaries, Fr. Georg and Fr. Xuereb attended the lunch as well and the private and confidential meeting concluded with a conversation in the Library. The Pope Emeritus accompanied Francis to the heliport when the moment came for him to board the helicopter to return to the Vatican. “This is not the first time they have met,” Fr. Lombardi emphasised. “It is the first time the two have met face to face, but Pope Francis has mentioned the Pope Emeritus on many occasions: once in the Loggia of the Blessings when he made his first appearance there and during the course of two personal telephone calls on the evening of the Pope’s election and on THE Feast of St. Joseph to wish him for his name day.”Their conversation had therefore already begun, even though they had not physically met yet in person. “It should be noted that, although this is the first time they meet face-to-face, Pope Francis has already called the Pope emeritus to mind many times: at his first appearance at the external Loggia of the Hall of Blessings of the Vatican Basilica on the evening of his election and with two phone calls—the first that same night and the second on the Feast of St. Joseph, to send his well wishes on the Pope emeritus' saint's day. Their dialogue, therefore, had already begun before this physical meeting. Recall also that the Pope emeritus had already expressed his unconditional reverence and obedience to his successor at his final meeting with the cardinals on the last day of his pontificate, 28 March. This encounter, then—a moment of elevated and deep communion—was a chance to renew his profession of reverence and obedience. Certainly Pope Francis renewed his gratitude, and that of the whole Church, for Pope Benedict's ministry during his pontificate,” stated the director of the Holy See Press Office. “It is the Virgin Mary of humility; when I saw her I immediately thought of giving her to you,” Pope Francis said to Benedict when he delivered his gift (an icon) to Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI. The most intense moment of this historic meeting was when the two knelt down beside each other in the chapel of the Apostolic Palace in Castel Gandolfo.As he exited the Apostolic Palace, Fr. Lombardi said: “The Pope Emeritus wanted Francis to use the kneeling-stool of honour in front of the altar. But the Pope replied to him: “No, we are brothers” and wanted them to both kneel together at the same pew an pray.” In the end the Pope did not give a benediction from the balcony of the Apostolic Palace. The Pope will give his reflections on today’s historic meeting during tomorrow’s Angelus.
03/23/2013 VATICAN INSIDER
Ratzinger-Bergoglio lunch:"A constructive meeting. It would be wrong to draw comparisons"
The helicopter Pope Francis took to fly to Castel Gandolfo
The face to face meeting according to Antonio Spadaro, director of Italian Jesuit journal "Civiltà Cattolica"
GIACOMO GALEAZZI vatican city It’s a very private meeting. Interpreting a Pope just in terms of continuity and discontinuity with his predecessor is wrong in my opinion. Antonio Spadaro, the director of the Company of Jesus’ journal Civiltà Cattolica gives an account of today’s face-to-face meeting between Francis and Benedict XVI.What is the significance of the meeting between the reigning Pope and the Pope Emeritus in Castel Gandolfo?
“It is an important gesture of communication which stems from previously established human contact. Francis’ election is based on Benedict XVI’s resignation which marked the need for a greater strength of body and soul in the Church’s government. It is the conclusion of a process which began last 11 February. The first steps taken by the new Pope mark a strong continuity in terms of the perception of a much needed reform.”
Is this a case of one Pope passing on the baton to another?
“Yes, it is. In this case the baton represents the need to face the Church’s most important challenges. Given the very obvious difference in the roles of the two figures, we should consider this as a highly enriching exchange between two extremely prominent figures. This exchange takes place within the symbolic context of the two names, Francis and Benedict. Bergoglio faces the anthropological challenges which Joseph Ratzinger faced before him. In his audience with the diplomatic corps, Francis recalled the “spiritual poverty” which afflicts rich countries as well. Ratzinger had condemned this spiritual poverty when he criticised the “dictatorship of relativism.” This dictatorship, the new Pope commented, lets everyone measure themselves against themselves and puts peaceful co-existence between humans at risk. Francis’ comments are brief and rhythmic but at the same time have that soft accent that is typical of Argentineans.”
Which issue does Francis see as more important?
“To fight against material and spiritual poverty and build peace and bridges. The main reason why he chose the name Francis is the love the saint of Assisi had for the poor, interpreted within St. Ignatius’ school of thought. Following in the footsteps of St. Francis, the Church is called to look after the destitute in all corners of the Earth. Many points contained in the texts he wrote before he was elected to the throne of Peter, are based on Benedict XVI’s magisterium. Of course their approaches are different as they stem from two different experiences. The expectations Francis created are also linked to the fact that he comes from a continent (Latin America) that is far from Europe in terms of human temperature, but there is no point in focusing too much on comparisons.”
“Each pontificate should be judged independently, according to the actions performed during it. Measuring the continuity or discontinuity between pontificates does not give the whole picture. It is also too early to draw conclusions about Francis when he has only been Pope for a few days. We need to pay attention to his words and actions. Each action needs to be seen in relation to the individual style of the figure who performs it. Francis developed his style mainly in South America but as a member of the Company of Jesus he also studied in Spain and completed his PhD in Germany. Francis is a natural communicator, a sober, simple and blunt but extremely efficient style. Francis likes to walk down the paths taken by people and considers self-referentiality to be the worst spiritual temptation for the Church.”
03/22/2013 VATICAN INSIDER
Bergoglio, Ratzinger and urban myths
Bergoglio without the red mozzetta
There are some, on both sides, who insist on comparing Francis to his predecessor; even making up things that never actually happened
ANDREA TORNIELLI vatican city The other day, a person who is very close and dear to me said: “I can’t help thinking about Benedict XVI and I can’t help feeling bad when I think of him seeing all the affection and enthusiasm that surround the new Pope…”. Knowing Ratzinger (as far as it is possible for one to really know him), it is hard to imagine him resenting the fact that his successor, Francis, is well liked by faithful and non-faithful alike. Frankly, the comments made by those who are concerned about the fondness Bergoglio inspires even in secular environments and contexts that are usually seen as being distant from the Church, appear out of place. It seems as though one cannot be truly Catholic without causing disagreements, disputes, controversies and dislike. Are the events of recent days just a “honey moon” between the new Pope and the people that is destined to end soon? We must wait and see what will happen. But we must recognise the Church’s spectacular ability to renew itself and start afresh with energy, despite the resignation of a Pope.Francis’ first days as Pope were marked by a heavy focus on the differences between him and his predecessor. It is true that Bergoglio’s mission is characterised by a simple style, continuously breaking rigid protocol, as Wojtyla had done since the start of his pontificate. But urban myths started to circulate within the first few hours of his papacy. According to one of these rumours, straight after his election, Francis apparently refused to wear the red velvet mozzetta trimmed with (synthetic) ermine, saying to the Master of Papal Ceremonies, Guido Marini: “You can wear it! The carnival’s over.” A rude and boorish comment to make to the Master of Ceremonies. As far as Vatican Insider has learnt, said comment was never made. As Marini placed the mozzetta on Francis, the Pope simply said: “I would prefer you didn’t.” No reference was made the carnival and no humiliating comment was made against the Master of Ceremonies.The real continuity between Benedict XVI and Francis is seen in the many gestures, hints and points of focus that have emerged in these first days of Francis’ pontificate: The day after Francis’ election, Benedict XVI said that “the Pope makes Christ’s light - not his own - shine wherever he goes. In a meeting with journalists Francis stressed that the “protagonist” is Christ, not the Pope.Their sensitivity for the protection of creation – which humans are at the top of – and the environment is something the two popes have in common. Then there are their thoughts on careerism and “spiritual worldliness” in the Church: anyone who has listened to one of Ratzinger’s deep homilies on these issues cannot deny there is continuity between his ideas and Francis’. Only those who are not familiar with his writings on the liturgy could be led to think that they gave importance to superficial aspects. In as far as the discontinuity between Ratzinger and Bergoglio is concerned; we need to ask ourselves to what extent Benedict XVI’s collaborators helped him deliver his core message. Just as Paul VI should be rescued from certain “Montinians” who consider themselves to be the only ones authorised to keep his memory alive through their own vision of his papacy, so Benedict XVI should be salvaged from certain “Ratzingerians” who have tried on more than one occasion to teach him how to be Pope.
03/22/2013VATICAN INSIDER
Benedict XVI and Francis’ historic lunch
Tomorrow Ratzinger will lunch with Bergoglio
Saturday 23 March will mark another first in the history of the Catholic Church as the world watches a Pope go to lunch with his successor, organised by Fr. Georg. As for the protocol, there is none, since this is a first
GIACOMO GALEAZZI vatican city “No one knows what protocol to follow as there are no precedents,” the Curia explains. Archbishop Georg Gänswein, who works closely with both these men dressed in white will definitely play a key role in this historic event. Tomorrow’s lunch will be a sort of handover of power that has not been witnessed in the whole of Christianity’s two thousand-year old history. It is also impossible to know what the two will talk about given the context which brought them together and united them (but has also divided them) for at least eight years: Bergoglio was Ratzinger’s main rival in the 2005 Conclave which elected Benedict XVI. But Ratzinger’s resignation and replacement by the very man who was once his “rival” in the race for the papacy, is a real turning point in terms of Church government. “Benedict XVI and Francis are intensely in sync: both a deeply spiritual figures, whose relationship with life is completely rooted in God,” Jesuit fortnightly journal Civiltà Cattolica stressed.“These deep roots are reflected in Benedict XVI’s timid and gentle demeanour and in Francis’ sweet spontaneity which he manifested in the very first words he pronounced as Pope: “Good evening”, defining cardinals as “brothers”, asking people for a “favour” and eloquently defining them as “the people”. And the favour he asked of the people was that they pray for him. He then took his leave as a bishop, with the words “Good night and sleep well!” “Pope Francis is history’s first Jesuit Pope. But he is also the first non European Pope of this modern age. And he is the first to choose the name Francis. The Jesuits were founded by Ignatius of Loyola, to serve the Pope in his mission; to be sent to whichever corner of the world needed their assistance most urgently. The Pope’s service is based on the fact that he has the most universal vision of all others and knows what the needs of the universal Church are, wherever these arise. Calling a Jesuit to the Petrine Ministry means electing him to embody the universal ministry at the highest level,” Civiltà Cattolica wrote. “Pope Francis is a leader who has faced some tough moments. His simplicity, humbleness and discretion are combined with strong organisational and leadership skills.”It is not known for sure whether Pope Francis will ask his predecessor for advice, particularly as he is now busy deciding the future of the Curia. The event will not be broadcast live but there will be photos and a possibly a short video, given the historical dimensions of the event: two popes will sit down to lunch together. The fact that one of them is actually a Pope and the other just a Pope Emeritus, in light of his shock decision to resign from the papacy, makes little difference, as they are both Vicars of Christ on Earth. Never has a Pope met, spoken or lunched (as will happen tomorrow in Castel Gandolfo) with a predecessor. What better photograph could one ask for than the fact that not even the papacy can be considered a definitive status any longer but is subject to the decisions of men, just like everything else? Tomorrow, ten days after Bergoglio’s election to the papacy, Pope Francis will visit his predecessor Benedict XVI in Castel Gandolfo. Bergoglio will leave the Vatican by helicopter – paradoxically the same way Benedict XVI got to Castel Gandolfo on 28 February when he officially stepped down from the papacy - at 12:00 local time and will land about a quarter of an hour later, a short distance away from the papal residence in the Alban Hills , where the Pope Emeritus has been living since the beginning of the sede vacante period. There, the historic lunch between the two men will take place. Once it is over, Pope Francis will return to the Vatican. Bergoglio had wanted to wait a day or two after the inauguration of his Petrine Ministry before he visited Ratzinger, whom he has already telephoned twice, once just after his election on 19 March and again to wish him for his name day. Joseph Ratzinger watched the mass for the inauguration of Francis’ pontificate on television.
03/21/2013 VATICAN INSIDER
London: Welby begins his ministry as Archbishop of Canterbury
Welby during his enthronement ceremony
The Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby's public ministry began today with his enthronement in Canterbury Cathedral. “I look forward to meeting you,” was Pope Francis’ message to him
MARIA TERESA PONTARA PEDERIVA The Church of England website took great care to stress that although “inauguration” is the modern term to use, “enthronement” is more appropriate in the case of the Archbishop of Canterbury who was this afternoon was ‘installed’ on the chair of St. Augustine, the seat Primates of the Church of England have used for over 700 years inside the London cathedral.The throne in question is in fact made up of two seats: one represents Canterbury, the oldest Episcopal seat in the United Kingdom and the other is the seat is where the Primate of All England and spiritual leader of the worldwide Anglican Communion is installed. Justin Welby (56) will be the 105th Primate to be installed on the throne on 21 March, just two days after the start of the Catholic Pope’s ministry. He was elected last November following the resignation of his predecessor Rowan Williams. The Primate of the Church of England is primus inter pares, and is not infallible: he is a sort of “chaplain of the Nation”, the successor of Thomas Cranmer, who backed Henry VIII’s divorce from Catherine of Aragon which led to the schism with Rome. The liturgical commemoration of Cranmer’s martyrdom in 1556 at the hands of the Catholics is on 21 March.According to the solemn century-old rite, a letter from the Queen, Supreme Governor of the Church of England, will be read out inside the Cathedral, after which, the Archbishop will be greeted by the Dean of Canterbury Cathedral, Robert Willis and the Archdeacon, Sheila Watson. Welby will then be asked to swear an oath of faithfulness to the statutes of the Church of England and an oath of faithfulness to the Queen of England, the Church’s head. The new Archbishop of Canterbury will then be enthroned on his two seats and will pronounce his first sermon as Primate of England. The new Archbishop of Canterbury has chosen to wear the blue and violet and blue robes worn by the late Bishop of Peterborough, Ian Cundy. The colours represent the water that is turned into wine and the robes “were bought as a gift for Ian from the students and staff at Cranmer Hall, Durham where the Archbishop was a student. Archbishop Justin wears them in gratitude to a teacher and bishop who had a formative impact on his ministry,” the Church of England website explains. There will be various religious and civil figures attending the ceremony, headed by the Prince of Wales, Charles, and Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall and Prime Minister David Cameron. Numerous bishops representing the Anglican Communion as a whole will also be present, as well as representatives of other faiths.Today Pope Francis sent a message to the new Archbishop on the occasion of his enthronement. The text reads:"May grace and peace be multiplied to you" (1 Pet 1:2b)
I thank you for the kind words contained in your message to me at my election, and I wish in turn to offer my greetings and best wishes on the occasion of your Enthronement at Canterbury Cathedral.
The pastoral ministry is a call to walk in fidelity to the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. Please be assured of my prayers as you take up your new responsibilities, and I ask you to pray for me as I respond to the new call that the Lord has addressed to me.
I look forward to meeting you in the near future, and to continuing the warm fraternal relations that our predecessors enjoyed.The message was simply signed, “Francis”.
03/22/2013
U.S.: Defenders of heterosexual marriage to hold protest march in Washington
Brian Brown heads the National Organization for Marriage
With the Supreme Court’s decision on whether to ban same-sex marriage due in just a few days time, opponents of same-sex marriage have announced they will be holding a demonstration
vatican insider staff rome Protests against the potential legalisation of same sex marriage are mounting in the U.S. as the Supreme Court prepares to rule on California’s constitutional same-sex marriage ban and the constitutionality of the federal law on marriage.The movement of opponents of same-sex marriage has organised a “March for Marriage” which will take place in Washington on Tuesday 26 March, the day America’s highest court will begin the decision-making process. Mothers, fathers, Catholic priests and Evangelical ministers, white, black and Latino activists will be marching: they are among the many opponents of same-sex marriage, or rather, they want to defend traditional unions.The `National Organization for Marriage´ led by father of seven, Brian Brown will be leading the protest. Brown has been travelling up and down the country holding rallies against same-sex unions. But the associations defending marriage as a union between a man and a woman are made up of people from all walks of life. It is a heterogeneous group which shares in the belief that legalising same-sex marriage would harm the institution of the family, particularly children.Obama in Jordan After Israel Visit
March 22, 2013
Obama said Israeli leaders must recognize that "continued settlement activity" on land the Palestinians claim for a state is "counterproductive." Obama also said he believes Israel has a genuine peace partner in Palestinian President Abbas. Israeli press reported Friday that Obama met with Netanyahu for several hours Friday to brief the Israeli prime minister on his talks with Abbas.
Obama in Jordan warns of extremist threat in Syria when _ not if _ Assad is ousted
“The timing was good for that conversation to take place,” Obama said.
