Reporting From the FOX Box at National Park Baseball Stadium!
Good morning from a box seat in National Park baseball stadium. I am in the “FOX box” overlooking what normally serves as home plate; today it is covered with the papal crest. It is 10:00am and the stadium is packed. Fifty thousand Christians are here to accompany Pope Benedict XVI in his first event open to the masses (pun intended).
With so much on the docket today, I don’t want us to overlook the content of the Pope’s address to the America bishops yesterday. This was his occasion to give marching orders—and a shot of encouragement—to his local leaders.
Once again, no punches were pulled—clarity of thought and expression dipped in and dripping with kindness. That’s this man’s way.
I hate to try to summarize the talk for you because whenever he speaks, unlike other popes in the past (even the great John Paul II) his language is always simple and accessible. He gets down to brass tacks almost immediately. I think it’s fair to say that if John Paul II was the pope of television (his smile, his grandeur gestures, his warmth), Benedict is the pope of the Internet. Once you read him, you know him.
But just in case you don’t read the whole speech, below are some key paragraphs, in the Pope’s own words.
If you have questions or comments, please take a moment to post them on this live blog. I read them and will respond as much as I can.
God bless, Father Jonathan
1) The Goodness of the American People
“Indeed, the people of this country are known for their great vitality and creativity. They are also known for their generosity. After the attack on the Twin Towers in September 2001, and again after Hurricane Katrina in 2005, Americans displayed their readiness to come to the aid of their brothers and sisters in need. On the international level, the contribution made by the people of America to relief and rescue operations after the tsunami of December 2004 is a further illustration of this compassion.”
2) The Faith of the American people
“America is also a land of great faith. Your people are remarkable for their religious fervor and they take pride in belonging to a worshipping community. They have confidence in God, and they do not hesitate to bring moral arguments rooted in biblical faith into their public discourse.”
3) Religious Liberty
“Respect for freedom of religion is deeply ingrained in the American consciousness - a fact which has contributed to this country’s attraction for generations of immigrants, seeking a home where they can worship freely in accordance with their beliefs.
4) The Obstacle of Secularization
While it is true that this country is marked by a genuinely religious spirit, the subtle influence of secularism can nevertheless color the way people allow their faith to influence their behavior. Is it consistent to profess our beliefs in church on Sunday, and then during the week to promote business practices or medical procedures contrary to those beliefs? Is it consistent for practicing Catholics to ignore or exploit the poor and the marginalized, to promote sexual behavior contrary to Catholic moral teaching, or to adopt positions that contradict the right to life of every human being from conception to natural death? Any tendency to treat religion as a private matter must be resisted. Only when their faith permeates every aspect of their lives do Christians become truly open to the transforming power of the Gospel.
5) The Obstacle of Materialism
For an affluent society, a further obstacle to an encounter with the living God lies in the subtle influence of materialism, which can all too easily focus the attention on the hundredfold, which God promises now in this time, at the expense of the eternal life which he promises in the age to come (cf. Mk 10:30). People today need to be reminded of the ultimate purpose of their lives. They need to recognize that implanted within them is a deep thirst for God. They need to be given opportunities to drink from the wells of his infinite love. It is easy to be entranced by the almost unlimited possibilities that science and technology place before us; it is easy to make the mistake of thinking we can obtain by our own efforts the fulfillment of our deepest needs. This is an illusion. Without God, who alone bestows upon us what we by ourselves cannot attain (cf. Spe Salvi, 31), our lives are ultimately empty. People need to be constantly reminded to cultivate a relationship with him who came that we might have life in abundance (cf. Jn 10:10). The goal of all our pastoral and catechetical work, the object of our preaching, and the focus of our sacramental ministry should be to help people establish and nurture that living relationship with “Christ Jesus, our hope” (1 Tim 1:1).
5) The Obstacle of Individualism
In a society which values personal freedom and autonomy, it is easy to lose sight of our dependence on others as well as the responsibilities that we bear towards them. This emphasis on individualism has even affected the Church (cf. Spe Salvi, 13-15), giving rise to a form of piety which sometimes emphasizes our private relationship with God at the expense of our calling to be members of a redeemed community.
6) Importance of Faith Formation (Education)
In an age that is saturated with information, the importance of providing sound formation in the faith cannot be overstated. American Catholics have traditionally placed a high value on religious education, both in schools and in the context of adult formation programs. These need to be maintained and expanded.
7) Bioethics
At a time when advances in medical science bring new hope to many, they also give rise to previously unimagined ethical challenges. This makes it more important than ever to offer thorough formation in the Church’s moral teaching to Catholics engaged in health care. Wise guidance is needed in all these apostolates, so that they may bear abundant fruit; if they are truly to promote the integral good of the human person, they too need to be made new in Christ our hope.
A Call to the Bishops to Influence the National Debate
Clearly, the Church’s influence on public debate takes place on many different levels. In the United States, as elsewhere, there is much current and proposed legislation that gives cause for concern from the point of view of morality, and the Catholic community, under your guidance, needs to offer a clear and united witness on such matters. Even more important, though, is the gradual opening of the minds and hearts of the wider community to moral truth. Here much remains to be done. Crucial in this regard is the role of the lay faithful to act as a “leaven” in society. Yet it cannot be assumed that all Catholic citizens think in harmony with the Church’s teaching on today’s key ethical questions. Once again, it falls to you to ensure that the moral formation provided at every level of ecclesial life reflects the authentic teaching of the Gospel of life.
9) Promote Family Life
How can we not be dismayed as we observe the sharp decline of the family as a basic element of Church and society? Divorce and infidelity have increased, and many young men and women are choosing to postpone marriage or to forego it altogether. To some young Catholics, the sacramental bond of marriage seems scarcely distinguishable from a civil bond, or even a purely informal and open-ended arrangement to live with another person. Hence we have an alarming decrease in the number of Catholic marriages in the United States together with an increase in cohabitation, in which the Christ-like mutual self-giving of spouses, sealed by a public promise to live out the demands of an indissoluble lifelong commitment, is simply absent. In such circumstances, children are denied the secure environment that they need in order truly to flourish as human beings, and society is denied the stable building blocks which it requires if the cohesion and moral focus of the community are to be maintained.
10) The Sexual Abuse Crisis in America (his second major address on this topic)
Among the countersigns to the Gospel of life found in America and elsewhere is one that causes deep shame: the sexual abuse of minors. Many of you have spoken to me of the enormous pain that your communities have suffered when clerics have betrayed their priestly obligations and duties by such gravely immoral behavior. As you strive to eliminate this evil wherever it occurs, you may be assured of the prayerful support of God’s people throughout the world. Rightly, you attach priority to showing compassion and care to the victims. It is your God-given responsibility as pastors to bind up the wounds caused by every breach of trust, to foster healing, to promote reconciliation and to reach out with loving concern to those so seriously wronged.
Responding to this situation has not been easy and, as the President of your Episcopal Conference has indicated, it was “sometimes very badly handled”. Now that the scale and gravity of the problem is more clearly understood, you have been able to adopt more focused remedial and disciplinary measures and to promote a safe environment that gives greater protection to young people. While it must be remembered that the overwhelming majority of clergy and religious in America do outstanding work in bringing the liberating message of the Gospel to the people entrusted to their care, it is vitally important that the vulnerable always be shielded from those who would cause harm. In this regard, your efforts to heal and protect are bearing great fruit not only for those directly under your pastoral care, but for all of society.
If they are to achieve their full purpose, however, the policies and programs you have adopted need to be placed in a wider context. Children deserve to grow up with a healthy understanding of sexuality and its proper place in human relationships. They should be spared the degrading manifestations and the crude manipulation of sexuality so prevalent today. They have a right to be educated in authentic moral values rooted in the dignity of the human person. This brings us back to our consideration of the centrality of the family and the need to promote the Gospel of life. What does it mean to speak of child protection when pornography and violence can be viewed in so many homes through media widely available today? We need to reassess urgently the values underpinning society, so that a sound moral formation can be offered to young people and adults alike. All have a part to play in this task - not only parents, religious leaders, teachers and catechists, but the media and entertainment industries as well. Indeed, every member of society can contribute to this moral renewal and benefit from it. Truly caring about young people and the future of our civilization means recognizing our responsibility to promote and live by the authentic moral values which alone enable the human person to flourish. It falls to you, as pastors modelled upon Christ, the Good Shepherd, to proclaim this message loud and clear, and thus to address the sin of abuse within the wider context of sexual mores. Moreover, by acknowledging and confronting the problem when it occurs in an ecclesial setting, you can give a lead to others, since this scourge is found not only within your Dioceses, but in every sector of society. It calls for a determined, collective response.
Support for Good Priests
Priests, too, need your guidance and closeness during this difficult time. They have experienced shame over what has occurred, and there are those who feel they have lost some of the trust and esteem they once enjoyed. Not a few are experiencing a closeness to Christ in his Passion as they struggle to come to terms with the consequences of the crisis. The Bishop, as father, brother and friend of his priests, can help them to draw spiritual fruit from this union with Christ by making them aware of the Lord’s consoling presence in the midst of their suffering, and by encouraging them to walk with the Lord along the path of hope.
11) Holiness of Life
If you yourselves live in a manner closely configured to Christ, the Good Shepherd, who laid down his life for his sheep, you will inspire your brother priests to rededicate themselves to the service of their flocks with Christ-like generosity. Indeed a clearer focus upon the imitation of Christ in holiness of life is exactly what is needed in order for us to move forward. We need to rediscover the joy of living a Christ-centred life, cultivating the virtues, and immersing ourselves in prayer. When the faithful know that their pastor is a man who prays and who dedicates his life to serving them, they respond with warmth and affection which nourishes and sustains the life of the whole community.
Time spent in prayer is never wasted, however urgent the duties that press upon us from every side.
TKC! Dear Fr. Jonathan in Chirst,
Thank you for this summary of the Holy Father’ speech. How beautiful!
Perhaps in the near future we can speak concretely of ways to recognize
and combat these “subtle influence” in our lives. I sometimes ask myself
if something in my life is materialistic, for example. In the contexts of
society it is not always easy to see how and when these things are effecting
us and becoming obsticals to our relationship wih God. We need a sort of
modern day “Imitation of Christ” with point by point guidance.
Dear Father Jonathan,
As my name suggests, yes I was raised Catholic, but have found a true home of faith, love and community with the Lutherans. As a Lutheran there has been more offered to me through the Pastor and members of the Church to grow my faith even stronger than ever. I did not find this in the Catholic Church.
I respect His Holiness very much and have enjoyed listen to his words of faith, hope, love and forgiveness. We need more people to do the same, people in leadership. I truly hope more people of other faiths and non-practicing Catholics listen to his message and take it to heart to change their lives back to when we cared for our neighbors and looked out for one another.
I left the Catholic church when I was 17. My Mother always told me that if I could not talk to her I could always go to the priest. I did one night, I was on the verge of suicide and he was in a meeting with the women’s club raising money. He sat me in a room by myself for what felt like a very long time only to come in and say he could not leave the meeting and could I come back on Tuesday. I was so disolusioned…money was more important that my soul. I never went back.
It took me another 16 years before I found the Lutheran faith, that gave me everthing the Catholic church did and so much more. The service is the same, but the main difference being a teaching of love and forgiveness, no angry God if you do not do everything perfectly. On a light note I’ve grown to call it “Catholic Lite”, all the goodness of being Catholic with NO GUILT. It was the guilt that was killing me, something the Lutheran’s do not teach or make you feel. It is all the Grace of God go I and Jesus truly walks with us and loves us no matter what we do.
I now live a good Christian life and help all walks of life and faith.
Also, why did the Holy Father stop the talks between bring the Catholic Faith and the Lutherans together (which were close to Lutherans being able to receive communion in the Catholic Church, given Lutherans’ accept all baptized Christians who believe Christ is present). These talks were going on for decades and under Pope John Paul we were very close to an understanding.
I never held the church as a whole responsible for the bad apples of the sex abuse scandal. My childhood church and one of my parish priests was one of the worst offenders (Fr. Burmingham in Lowell, MA), my brother and I knew there was something not quite right about him and the sprit kept us away from him. We stopped our involvement with the CYO, which he took over and where most of the abuse happened. I know that we were protected and listened to our hearts by receiving the word to stay away.
Long and short of it, I don’t see the Catholic Church involved in their communitees like the Lutherans. I tried going back to the Catholic church when I moved, but was looked at like an outsider and was not welcomed by the congregants. Those are the minds that you need to change. To accept all walks of life and to help and give to others besides their own. That is the only way of healing this nation and the world. My two cents.
Can you tell me why going back to the Catholic faith would be a better choice for me, or do you and the Holly Sea accept my decision and are happy that I have found a home of faith and love that supports all.
I apologize for this being so long, but I so enjoy when you are on. Your enthusiasm and “happiness” are so refreshing. I think I am writing so much because I would love to sit down and have this conversation with you.
As I said, you are a breath of fresh air and please continue to give your wonderful message of hope and love.
May the Lord Bless you and keep you safe always,
Geri
Father,
since its easier to hear the tone of the speakers voice when determining the how much conviction will be given to each statement (although from what Ive heard so far this Pontiff certainly doesnt lack conviction)but reading the statement isnt the same (dont worry no lack of trust here I even do it when Pres. Bush is quoted…)A lot can be said without speaking.
Im sorry I must I missed the Popes address to the bishops yesterday, and was wondering if there was link to view the address (you probably don’t know for sure…
if you could give that link that would be wonderful. Thank you in advance.
Ive been watching the mass since it started and must say that with over 40,000 of the faithful present the pope certainly seems to be growing more comfortable in his role over the past few years since is election.
Father Jonathan-
What a beautiful day to be a Catholic American.
Who is the Priest leading the choir and singing solo during today’s mass?
Thank you
God Bless
my eyes are filled with tears, my heart filled with love, i wished i could have been there, it was beautiful, i am so glad the POPE came here, we needed it, GOD BLESS US ALL, WE LOVE YOU HOLY FATHER,
I would just like to say that I am not Catholic, I do not know very much about the Pope. But I saw this man (the Pope) lay hands on a young person’s face, and I saw genuine love for his fellow humanbeings. I listened to his Mass and am truly touched by this Holyman. God Bless Him and Keep him, he is truly a good and holy person.
Dear Father Jonathan
I apologize for Geri, the Lutheran. Not All Lutherans are such Catholic-bashers, I assure you.
George, no need for appologies. Quite honestly, I could sense sincerity in Geri’s questions. And yes, I would like to have that sit down conversation she suggests. In the Vatican there is ongoing and very cordial dialogue between the Catholic Church and the Lutheran Church. That has not stopped. Of course Pope Benedict believes the Catholic Church is right on doctrine, otherwise he, of course, would become Lutheran (and me too), but he respects and appreciates people of all faith. Hope that helps.
Father Jonathan
Father Jonathan is author of the new book, “The Promise: God’s Purpose and Plan for when Life Hurts”
Father Jonathan, it is indeed a beautiful day to be an American of Faith. Any deep and abiding Faith, in our Lord Jesus Christ.
Even as a Baptist, I am in awe that this Pope, just as the last Pope, is so in touch with the Faith, Hope and Needs, of all of us who truly Believe. Regardless of of Sect.
Please encouage Fox News to make this Net-Cast available in an archive, so that I and so many others may share this, the Good News of Jesus Christ, as seen and heard here today, with our friends and family who could not watch and hear this very important message delivered live, here today.
May God continue to Bless you, His Holiness, all Believers, lovers and followers of Christ, and may God always continue to Bless this good nation, the United States of America.
We had the pleasure of catching a rerun of Pope Benedict’s talk to the Bishops, from start to finish, including the opening by Cardinal George and questions from the Bishops, on EWTN last night… it was wonderful and filled us with such Hope! What a true gift he is, and our prayer will be that the Bishops and priests around the country will heed his words and follow our
Shepherd!”
Thank you, Father, for all you are doing; Christ’s peace to you!
Tim and Judy Capistrant
Thank you Judy I was able to find the footage of the Popes speech on the ETWN site this morning thanx again for the idea.
Geri,
I felt the need to respond to your post. Though I’m no Father Jonathon and will surely not respond as he would I still wanted to give you my perspective as a layperson.
You asked whether or not it would be better for you to go back to the Catholic church. As a Catholic I would have to answer with a resounding YES! I was sorry to hear about your experiences as a teenager in the Church. But happy to hear that after 16 years you were able to find God again and didn’t fall, as many with bad experiences do, into total agnosticism or atheism. However, you are missing one crucial element in your Lutheran worship… the Eucharist. The Lutheran church is not in communion with Rome and therefore their eucharist is not fully the body and blood of Christ. This is THE key element of the Catholic mass. It is THE reason for the mass. Otherwise we may as well all go to Lutheran or Episcopalian services. It is sad that you do not feel welcome in the parish near you. That is a sad fact among many Catholic parishes. Perhaps if you looked at it from a different perspective though… Regardless of the people you worship with, the priest who offers the mass or where you are in the world the first and foremost importance of the mass is the celebration of the Eucharist. THAT is why we go to mass. Not to socialize. Not to network. Not to join a Bible study or hear great music or a moving homily. Those things are all secondary. We go to celebrate the mass and receive the Eucharist, the body and blood of our Lord. A great parish with stellar programs and a fascinating priest are icing on the cake but they are nothing without the mass.
I hope this helped a little. You clearly recognize that the Holy Spirit is at work in your life. Perhaps He is leading you back to the Catholic church and writing to Father Jonathon was a first small step. I hope I did justice in answering you.
Father Jonathon,
Thank you for your witness to our faith and to the amazing events in Washington the past few days. I only wish I could have been there myself. Please edit me if I mispoke in answering Geri.
Thank you and God Bless!
Father Jonathan,
Thanks for the great work you do within the Catholic faith. The mass today was beautiful to watch from far away. I too wish I was there to celebrate with so many. I bought your book and was enthralled with it! Couldn’t put it down and it is helping me grow in my faith. God Bless!
Elisa,
I couldn’t say it better myself. The Catholic church has kindly shown us the way and told us the truth about the faith. We do not need to interpret the bible with our own beliefs, but of course need to read it for understanding. Sure, some parishes are not “spectacular”, but the mass is the beauty of the faith. Seeing past the protestant “lively” sermons of many churches and looking deep at the mass, one will see where the heart of the faith is. It doesn’t need to be lively to be real.
I hope the Pope’s visit reaffirms for many the beauty of the Catholic church and its beliefs. Too many knock it for the things it isn’t. I believe his visit comes at a great time for the faith. Benedict’s message is simple and powerful.
Did anyone see him kiss the baby? It gave me goosebumps
Thank you so much for doing such a great job with the Pope’s visit. For those of us who couldn’t be there, we felt we had a front row seat. It is beautiful. We are faithful viewers of Fox News and always expect the best from you, and you came through, again. Keep up the good work. You made my day. DA
Dorothy, how nice of you, really. I was so happy that we could transmit almost the entire mass. Just the music, silence, reverence, and joy was a gift to me personally and to so many of you.
God bless, Father Jonathan
Father Jonathan is author of the new book, “The Promise: God’s Purpose and Plan for when Life Hurts”
Elisa,
Thank you for your well written response to Geri. So many miss the true focus of the Mass - the Eucharist. We are at Mass to re-present Christ’s Sacrifice for us on the Cross. For us to be concerned about ‘entertainment’ - in whatever form we feel we are looking for is to be putting Christ in second place.
Father Jonathan,
I am a huge fan of all your opinion columns! You were the first one I turned to for commentary on these beautiful days of having our Holy Father here in America! Thank you for your reasoned and intelligent work. God Bless!
As usual for a US Catholic priest, no mention about the main recipe Pope Benedict XVI gave for the renewal of catholicism in the US: THE SACRAMENT OF PENANCE!!!
Why are US Catholic priests so deaf? Why don’t they ever spend 3 hours a day (not 45 minutes on Saturday, period) in an empty confessonary, so that their faithful ones see them always there waiting (even in vain, at the beginning: the Spirit blows where It wants) for them to get the most useful and important among sacraments?
You gave 11 points, but once again (and as usual) missed the most important one.
You did not spend a single word on the sole recipe the Holy Father gave to renew American Catholicism: SACRAMENT OF PENANCE!!!
AVAILABLE IN VERY PARISH, EVERY DAY: 3 HOURS A DAY (even if nobody shows up: that’s not the point). Not 45 minutes on Saturday, to foster disaffection towards the sacrament and its grace.
How is it that US Catholic priests simply don’t get it? Not even when the Pope tells you.
Thank you for such a good job on reporting on the Pope. Although I am not Catholic I found the words of the Pope to be inspiring and opened my eyes to the fact that I to need to spend time in prayer and the study of Gods word, and to redirect my own life back to the life of a Christ-center one. Have a Blessed Day. Linda Johnson
I was very disappointed at the presentation of today’s first reading in Spanish. The explanation I have heard up to this point is along the line of the United States is a nation of immigrants. In the United States, English is also our first language. As a cradle Catholic this is just one more example of this disconnect between the leadership of the church to the lay people. If the Holy Father was in Mexico would the first reading be in English?
What a beautiful day to have the Pope in D.C. I am honored to have him so close to our city!
I teach at a local Catholic School (Pre-K) and we watched the mass on tv during our quiet time.
The kids were in amazement as he spoke. We have talked about him so much and the children were touched. They had so many questions!
I was also touched that he blessed the 2 corner stones for the new Catholic H.S. that is about to open!
Thanks FOX for the coverage.
It deeply saddens me how many people were protesting around this holy man! If they could only understand and open their hearts!
Thanks for the link to Zenit at the top! Alas the CC provided was just a bit sub par.
In many ways today’s media is not friendly to the hearing impaired, especially on-line — while the EWTN site posted earlier does use winmedia for example, rather than the dreaded Flash (from a CC or subs standpoint), they fail to make use of the ease with which winmedia accommodates captioning.
With my *shame-on-you* towards the media folks out of the way, I should balance it a bit by saying that on the screen you are very clear & easy to read — Thanks Very Much Father Jonathon.
A very much analytical type of German heritage myself, I suppose that I’m among the relative few who get great amusement from explanations that, basically, yes, the Pope means what he says. I pray that as he is welcomed into the hearts of America, so too is the Catholic Church…
God Bless
I had a chance to attend this Mass, but was not able to travel due to my work schedule. I’m wondering if FOX will rebroadcast the Mass or make it available by DVD.
To Geri - who is now Lutheran.. I’ve been Catholic all my life and have been through some very difficult times. I once considered leaving the Catholic faith to become Lutheran, because it would help relieve the “guilt” I felt over being divorced and settle the dissagreements I felt with the Church at that time. One time when I was listening to Dr. Laura, she advised someone not to leave the faith they had before they understood what they were leaving. I took that to heart and decided to learn more about my Catholic faith. Needless to say, I am still Catholic and I love the Church more than ever. During those tough years, I sought priests and religious to help me, and I was disappointed too. But I found that the Church is much more than my experiences with individuals within.
As I learned more about my faith and began to trust Jesus with my life, I was strenghtened. I have received nothing but mercy and love from Christ through His Church. Once I learned truly what the Churches teaches, I could not leave it. I found out that it was not the Church that had to change, but me. I still have difficulty with certain things and life isn’t easy, but the Lord, my Shepherd leads me and I have surrendered my life to His and look to our Holy Father, our shepherd on earth, for guidance as I journey day by day.
I hope Geri finds peace in whatever path she journeys.
Father Jonathan,
Being retired, I’ve had the advantage of watching the events unfold during the Pope’s visit and the various messages he’s delivered. How exciting it is to watch this wonderful man of faith endure the schedule he has while he’s here. I was especially touched that he set aside time to meet with some of the victims of sexual abuse. This was an extremely sensitive and necessary move that I’m glad the Pope made.
Thank you so much for all of your hard work and insight into the Pope’s visit. I look forward to the continuing coverage on Fox and EWTN of this memorable visit.
Dear Father Jonathan,
I’m not able to watch much of the live feed of the Pope’s daily activities so I do so appreciate you, and Fox News, for keeping us all informed. Without ever seeing him in person, I can feel his genuine kindness and his message does so much to soften hearts. His visit seems to come at a time when
our country really needs him. I know, for myself, it feels like he brings fresh air to a place that’s become stagnant…it feels so good to breath deeply again! (smiles)
Please take care and God bless
Father,
Many Catholic politicians who support abortion rights attended the Mass yesterday and received communion in direct oppostion to B16’s guidance for them to obstain from reception of the sacrament.
When asked by the press, Pelosi, the speaker of the house said that yesterday was a celebration of Catholic unity and not centered on just one issue. Isn’t this just the moral relativism that B16 preaches about? Was this action by Sen Pelosi, Kerry, Mikulski and other just a slap in the face to B16 and leads to confusion among Catholics and just fuels the anti-Catholic forces?
Thanks for the great coverage!
If that is what Speaker Pelosi said, she evaded an important question. Find out for us who the politicians were who were present. It would be good information for us all.
God bless, Father Jonathan
Father Jonathan…Thanks for your fine work in the media representing the Catholic Church.
You wrote a couple of excellent pieces about a year ago (no longer on the archives) about the sexual abuse situation…Just a suggestion here…
…The Pope is doing a great job of admitting & speaking on, etc., both his, personally, & the Catholic Church’s, embarassment re: the sexual abuse scandal (& stating that measures have been taken to stop from happening in the future)…In your articles I referred to, you did not make any excuses for the Church, and you focused on all the controls that were put in place to prevent in happening again…but, you also quoted some legitimate ststistics that pointed to other denominations having similar problems percentagewise, without the same controls in place, etc….which also ties in with Pope Benedict’s pointing a finger at the sexually permissive & immoral climate, etc. in America today, that need to be addressed.
Is there a forum that would be effectively appropriate where you could bring the aforementioned up again, where it could receive more exposure?…perhaps on TV after the Pope is finished on Sunday…maybe during your wrap-up. Frankly, it would accomplish, in my opinion, 2 things…#1. it would place more awareness & responsibility on our secular society overall, & on the many individuals of other religious groups & denominations that continue to criticize the Catholic Church, going forward, unfairly (since we have the controls in place & many of them do not)…@ #2. it would help complement what the Pope stated he wants his Church folks to do…compliment & appreciate the other 95% of the Christ centered priests & clergy that are focused on doing God’s work at the local level.
Father, I sincerely believe that expressing some summary comments on your “comparative analysis & perspective” documented last year could be very meaningful & effective (especially due to the respect & goodwill you have earned on Fox news & the media in general)… In addition to accomplishing my above 2 points, addional bonuses would be helping give our priests more confidence that they aren’t being criticized in their daily encounters…plus aiding in shutting up some of the holier-than-thou hypocrites out there (especially some of the unfair media types…such as Bill Mahr).
Just thinkin’…God Bless…Jack Kelleher
I’m in the opposite position as Geri.
I’m a lifelong Lutheran who is being received into the Catholic Church next Sunday, April 27.
The Holy Father’s visit to this country is a such a blessing. I’m taking the saint name Benedicta in his honor next Sunday at my Confirmation!
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Geri, the Catholic church is very much involved in their communities. If you are ever in Brea, California, please visit St. Angela Merici. We have many ministries that serve the community. I am involved in Saturday Hospitality. This ministry feeds the poor and homeless every Saturday. This ministry is not unique to St. Angela. You find many Catholic parishes and charities that serve their community especially the disadvantaged and neglected. The Catholic church is global and local. We serve here and overseas.
Fr. Jonathan –
Here is Pelosi’s quote regarding pro-abortion politicians taking Communion — from Fox’s own web site:
“If Catholic legislators are scorned and held out for ridicule by Church leaders on the basis of a single issue, the Church will lose strong advocates on a wide range of issues that relate to the core of important Catholic social teaching,” they wrote. “Moreover, criticism of us on a matter that is essentially one of personal morality will deter other Catholics from entering politics, and in the long run the Church will suffer.”
Nice threat, Ms. Pelosi.
Here’s a link showing pro-abortion politicians receiving Eucharist:
http://www.lifesitenews.com/ldn/2008/apr/08041707.html
What more is needed to force this issue? It’s either a rule or it isn’t!
Thanks,
John
Dear Father Jonathan,
I hesitate to send this, but prayed about and decided it was a legitimate question and not being negative.
Where did they get the music for the Mass at the stadium? I can honestly say it hurt my ears, it was so off key. Have they read the Pope’s writings at all, or know of his love for beauty, in all forms, but especially in music, and his love for sacred music? So many wonderful composers to choose from, who wrote deeply sacred and liturgical music…
After his homily and the start of the same type of music, could not listen anymore, one advantage of listening via video
Sure they meant well, but pray that the Pope addresses this directly sometime, very directly, as we American’s tend to be like kids. If you tell us not to play in A mud pubble, we go to another and say, “but you didn’t say THIS puddle.” My heart just aches when abuses take place…
BUT, this Pope gives us such hope. He tells us how to live our Faith in such a beautiful, loving and clear way. Thank you very much for covering his visit and for the commentaries. A big “Well Done!” to you and all those with you.
Christ’s peace,
Judy
I know this is a day late but I was in DC to see the Pope and cannot begin to express the essence of God that was present during this most beautiful Mass. We left home at 2:00 in the morning to catch our 3:00 bus to arrive in DC by 5:30 in the morning. My husband taped Fox’s coverage and when I arrived home we watched it together - thank you Fox for being present and I am kicking myself finding out how close I was to Fr. Jonathan -we would have loved to have a picture with our group! I purchased your book for my ‘adopted’ Catholic mom and gave it to her when we got home as a thank-you for her paying my bus fare! Prayer and Hope - if we do this well and with honesty maybe, just maybe we can break down some walls and find the Peace we seek.
Blessings,
Jan
Fr. Jonathon,
I have watched as much as possible of Pope Benedict’s visit on Fox News. I have heard what he has said and your commentary on Pope Benedict’s words as well as your analysis of them. I truly believe you have truly caught the essence. Though not Roman Catholic (Episcopalian) I truly am moved by the annunciation of the universal truths stated so clearly and simply by the Holy Father. Now we will all have to wait and see just how they will be implemented in country’s whose human rights records are not good.
May God continue to bless Benedict XVI in all his good works and may God continue to shower you with his blessings.
Jack
Fr. Jonathan,
Thank you for being a spiritual warrior. I am planning to convert from Episcopalianism and feel American Catholics need to make their faith THE foundation of their life–not a sidebar.
I am in the military and have been to Iraq. I have felt the evil that resides in this world and find comfort in my faith. I believe too many focus on this material world when there is a spiritual battle going on now. We who aknowledge this are seen as superstitious or uneducated.
I applaud the Holy Father for not conforming to the political correctness of the times and holding to the fact that their are absolutes in this world. His strength will carry the church to a stronger place.
Thank you for serving our Lord!
Spc. R Durham, USA
Fr. Jonathan,
First, thank you and all at Fox for the great coverage of our Holy Father.
Second, it seems that the stand of Nancy Pelosi and all of the pro-choice politicians regarding the Church’s denial of the Eucharist to them needs to be addressed. It is not my understanding that this is a matter of ‘personal morality’ as Ms. Pelosi indicates. It is surely not the Church who is holding them up to ridicule. They know the teaching of the Church and the consequences in their decision to not abide by it. Where is their personal responsibility?
It is my belief that a strong stance by the Church will not deter Catholics from entering politics; on the contrary, it will strengthen them in holding to their convictions. I, for one, am not edified by so-called ‘Catholic’ politicians who scoff at their faith.
Back to ‘first’… Thank You for your great coverage. Share this with all at Fox. We know it takes a lot of people to bring it all to us who are not able to be with you.
Father Jonathan, I can’t begin to tell you how much we enjoyed your coverage of the Pope’s visit. We watched it all and were very inspired and learned so much from you and the Monsignor. Can you please give us the Monsignor’s name and where we can contact him. He also said so many things we felt and just wanted him to know what a wonderful inspiration he was. Great job and we love seeing you on Fox and Friends. Thanks for all you do,
Fr. Jonathan,
First of all, you are a breath of fresh air and I have enjoyed all of your hardwork and input on Fox News. During these uncertain times in a declining moral society I am so glad you are in the media representing the Chrisitian faith. It would be an honor to meet you in person someday. You and I have a couple of things in common- we are both the same age and grew up in Ohio. It is disheartening to see there are fewer young men joining the priesthood. The church needs more of you!
I have been so moved by the Pope’s visit to America. I have followed his papacy since he was elected Pope and am very enthused about him being the leader of the church.l
Alot on this blog of Catholics compared to Lutherans, Episcoplians and so forth. But we have to remember one thing- we as Christians have alot more in common than we do differences. Lets all love and respect one another. It’s disappointing enough that church memberships and attendance is down as well as the threat of islamist extremism in Europe and the U.S. I wish for all Christians- Catholics and Protestants and even Jews to respect and care for each other.
Anyhow Father, I am at a point in my life where I need to have a deeper relationship with Christ. I havent attended church regularly for many years but have always had a strong belief and love of god. You recently said something that hit home to me- ” each day we are all moving closer to the end of our lives.”
I was baptized and raised Lutheran but have considered becoming Catholic since high school. My mother was raised a Catholic, her oldest brother has been an ordained priest for almost 40 yrs. She left the church and became Lutheran after she and my father married. She left the church for the same reason Geri who blogged earlier did- she felt the church instilled in her alot of guilt. She is a good woman and her and my father gave my brother and I a solid Christian background. I find myself struggling with faith somewhere in the middle of Lutheran and Catholism, leaning more Catholic.
I attended an all boys Catholic high school where I received alot of curriculum and teachings of the Catholic church. I know more about the Catholic church and its teachings than I do about the Lutheran faith. I do know the Lutheran church I grew up in is very, very close to the customs and message of the Catholic church. Lutherans practice baptizing, first communion, & confirmation just as Catholics do. I have however, always been impressed with the traditions and practices of the Catholic church. I consider myself a traditionalist, I am not a big fan of these new contemporary services that now seem to be so common now in other Christian churches.
I guess what I am needing is a little guidance in making the right decision. I believe the eucharist is the body and blood of Christ. I enjoy attending mass in the Catholic church. And Father, I am not sure if I am wrong for doing so but beginning in high school mass I have taken holy communion in the Catholic church even though I received baptism and first communion in the Lutheran church.
It would be greatly appreciated if you replied with your input. Once again, thank you for your good deeds and hardwork!
God bless!
Joe
Father Morris, I would like to thank you, Monsignor, Bill Hemmer and Shepard Smith for the superb job you did covering the Pope’s visit. I was glued to the television from the time His Holiness arrived until he left. The coverage of the Masses were very uplifting and inspiring. Talking before and after to keep the Masses solemn as it should be. Showing great respect to His Holiness. The five days were just AWESOME!!! Thank you!!!
Marge
Fox News provided a ‘Divine’ presentation of Pope Benedict’s visit to the United States.
All Fox did an Outstanding Job!!! I would like to give special credit to Shephard Smith, even though, or perhaps, in spite of not being a Catholic, he gave such a vibrant, warm, enthusiastic, refreshing, sincere reporting of all events. He enjoyed it as much as or perhaps more than us Catholics. Thanks Shep!
Fr Jonathan must also be congratulated. He is young, smart, intelligent and makes a good presentation of the Catholic Church. Thanks Jonathan!
Pax,
fr jerry
I want to thank Shepard Smith & Fr. Johathan for the superb job of covering the popes visit to our country. I was awestruck at the way you had captions of the mass & Yankees stadium, to let the lay people know what parts of the mass were. It was most holy and sacred to me & my husband. We all needed this boost to our christian communities, as so many people against it voice there opinions loud and clear. Thank you again, the entire 5 days was a joy to watch. You both explained events well and brought to my living room a great satisfaction of love, trust and human rightness-the message of the Holy Father.
Barb from Ohio