Irish Prophet Predicts "Big Changes in the Catholic Church in Ireland"

BY:

An Irish Prophet from the rocks out in County Mayo,

in self-imposed exile…….somewhere in America. February, 2011

Tis no secret over to home in Ireland---nor in the whole world for that matter----that the Irish Church is in a heap of trouble, mostly brought about by the scandal of the sexual abuse by Irish clergy. This in itself proved to be a terrible curse; but what made it even worse was the fact that some of the Irish bishops back in the late 1980’s and early 90’s failed to handle the problem properly, even aided and abetted this crime by refusing to report it to civil authorities, and continued to pass the offending clerics from parish to parish, motivated by the need to protect the ‘good name’ of the priest, and the reputation of the Church, and thus keep their jobs. Well, in the 1990’s the offending bishops either resigned or left the country, and the bishops in 1996 did try to establish some better, just, moral guidelines to deal with this problem in the clergy. Nonetheless, the problem remains; the scars are still apparent, and will be…until some drastic changes are made, and…..

I am absolutely certain some BIG, nearly IMPOSSIBLE changes are in the wind. And, of course, tis only God who can pull off the impossible ones….which I sense God is fixin’ to do. But even though this problem has been with us for quite a few years, and even though the ‘critical mass’ is there and ripe for ‘the explosion’ of change, God often waits till the right catalyst comes along to ignite the ‘explosion.’ Well, glory be to God, the catalyst has arrived…in the form of an RTE video report, Would You Believe, January 17, 2011, an incisive report shown on Irish TV, done by investigative journalist, Mick Peelo, in which he shines the spotlight of the Holy Spirit on the very root of this horrible curse poisoning our beloved Church there, once God’s pride and joy…..and now has Jesus in tears.

This well done, comprehensive report not only underscores the underlying cause of this gigantic problem, but, as a result thereof, also clearly shows where the one, the only one possible solution lies. The chain of horrors starts with some members of the clergy abusing minors. Then we saw some bishops ignoring, transferring the offender, with minimal or no punishment, and no reporting to the authorities, and even covering up the offences, and giving no consideration to the victims, in order to protect the reputation of the Church and the position of the priest, and insure their own positions in the Church. Next, after some of these bishops resigned, the remaining lads of the Irish Catholic Bishops conference did try to put things right, and in 1996, published a little green booklet of guidelines for better handling the problem, reporting the cases to the civil authorities and ordering a Church tribunal to deal with the offender, and did attempt to offer some help to the victims.

Sounds well and good, and might have ‘ended’ the problem., right? But no. The Vatican stepped in and, as Peelo’s report discovered, one Cardinal Castrillon Hoyos, then head of the Vatican Congregation for the Clergy, in 1997 sent a letter to the Irish bishops negating their guidelines and demanding they NOT report clergy offense cases to authorities, and that the Church should handle them internally. To their credit the bishops were incensed, and there followed in, I think 1998, a heated meeting with Hoyos in Sligo in which the Irish bishops became terribly angry with this ruling which they knew was wrong for the victims and wrong for the Irish Church, and even pounded on the table, and shouted at Hoyos. Nonetheless, and sadly, they capitulated, and, instead of following their consciences and what they well knew was what the Irish people and the Church needed, and clearly what God would want, and for reasons unbeknownst to most of us, they gave in, and continue to sheepishly follow the demands of Hoyos and wishes of Rome. (This same Cardinal Hoyos in 2001 wrote to a French bishop, “delighted,” and….”.I congratulate you on not having spoken out to civil authorities against a priest," wrote Cardinal Dario Castrillon Hoyos, who at the time was prefect of the Congregation for the Clergy.”

This sad state of affairs could have gone on, with the Church continuing to sink deeper and deeper, but for the 2011 appearance, by the Grace of God and heads-up reporting by RTE, the video report by Mick Peelo, God’s “Catalyst.” The report points squarely to the ultimate, the underlying cause: hierarchical culture and the demands of the Vatican that all their ‘officers,’ the bishops and cardinals, continue to follow, unquestioningly, the man-made rules and Canon Laws, however unjust and harmful they may be to the faithful and to the Church. And therefore, that points to the obvious, one, AND ONLY ONE POSSIBLE SOLUTION to this problem, this curse plaguing our beloved Church and Irish citizens. THIS HORRIBLE EVIL WILL BE WITH US DRAGGING US, THE IRISH CHIRCH AND THE IRISH PEOPLE, FOREVER DOWNWARD….AS LONG AS OUR LEADERS, OUR BISHOPS CONTINUE TO TRY TO FOLLOW ROME’S UNJUST DEMANDS. THEY MUST SAY: “NO! NO MORE! NEVER AGAIN!”

Unless they take this brave, bold, righteous, costly step, and remove themselves and our Church out from under the oppressive, suffocating guidance of the Vatican, we are done! Our bishops must be unanimous in this, and then write a polite letter to the Pope, the Roman Curia, the Vatican, and tell them that, under the direction of our consciences and the Holy Spirit, we can no longer abide by several of the Vatican’s unjust rules:

1.) We will report all cases of clergy abuse to the civil authorities, and have them deal with and handle them as appropriate. These crimes are felonies, and, even though Rome may demand it, we can no longer be part of aiding and abetting these felonies.

2.) We realize that the main reason for the high number of abuse cases stems from the archaic and dysfunctional culture we have been following in choosing and ordaining our ministers. We therefore will no longer limit ordination to the priesthood to only celibate males, and will open the priesthood to married men and women, and even invite our married priests who may wish to do so, to ‘come back to work.’ By having a clergy made up of women and men, married or single, as they may choose, we predict a substantial drop in the number of abuse cases, close to “0” ZERO, in the not too distant future.

3.) We will choose, elect, and appoint our own bishops to guide and support our faithful, without any direction from Rome. We believe no congregation should be forced to have a leader they do not want. The various local congregations will ultimately be choosing the women and men they want to lead and guide them as bishops.

4.) We are Catholic, and, of course, will continue to be fully Catholic. That cannot be changed. We will continue with the same worship systems, devotions, education, shrines and sacred places throughout the land, but try to achieve inclusiveness, collegiality, and transparency, in all matters. The essence of our relationship with God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit would remain unchanged, and we all, the people of God, will strive to go forward and relate as a community of equals before our God.

5.) . We wish to maintain a cordial relationship with the Pope and Vatican as brothers in Christ, but we, as sisters and brothers in Christ, will be responsible for governing the Irish Church----with, of course, input from all the members of the Body of Christ on our island.

6.) We would welcome the Papal Nuncio as a visitor, but are not interested in any dictates he may bring to try to direct our running Church affairs, nor personnel appointments from Rome. That is OUR job.

All these new approaches can be the foundation of a better way to run the Church…as opposed to ru-I-n. ( Put “I” in there and “run” does become “ruin,” does it not?) This vision of a renewed Church was shared with us by an American woman originally from Ireland, now a validly ordained Roman Catholic Womenpriest, when she spoke at a conference out in Castlebar last summer, arranged by some influential folks and journalists who are most interested in saving our Church.

Thanks to Peelo’s report, it becomes apparent to any observer---as assuredly it must now be to all the present Irish bishops----that the necessary steps to cure this horrible evil must be taken, by these bishops, and must be done NOW! Of course, these bold courageous steps should have been taken back in 1997-98 when our bishops saw the handwriting on the wall. We do, however, realize that, back then, the hierarchical culture in which they evolved and rose, demanded they follow unquestioningly the directives from “headquarters.” To do otherwise was unthinkable. Now, 13 years later, however, with much time to ponder the problem and with fresh insights, we---and they too---- clearly realize that they were guilty of not acting appropriately at that time when they were presented with the opportunity, in the form of the letter and demands of Cardinal Hoyos. Well, I suppose the bishops could be forgiven, if, and only if…….THEY ACT NOW!

Doubtless, this new approach will be a terribly difficult and painful change…..at first. It will mean forsaking the lifeline which fed them throughout their climb up the Episcopal ladder, and it will probably cost them a loss of status, position, authority, power, wealth. However, this change toward renewal will offer them immeasurable, infinite, outstanding blessings, the likes of which “…..Eye has not seen, ear has not heard, man cannot imagine ……” what God has in store for those who love and follow God’s ways. (And, it should be added, the dictates of the Second Vatican Council.)

Well now, like it or not, it seems as though history has placed our good bishops right squarely at a very critical crossroads in the history of the Irish Catholic Church—actually the whole Church throughout the world. God is calling on them to make a big, difficult decision. One could almost hear the Voice of God saying these men: “I set before you two choices: LIFE or DEATH. I say to you---CHOOSE LIFE.”

If they now do what is right, what our Church needs, what God truly wants, our Church will again shine, the worldwide Church will take notice of this bright example for renewal, and Jesus will again be smiling at His beloved Irish Church. The appointed place is clearly, the country of Ireland. The chosen ‘changers’ are clearly the Catholic bishops of Ireland. The appointed time is clearly……NOW!!!!

IF NOT IRELAND…………THEN WHERE?

IF NOT THE IRISH BISHOPS………..THEN WHO?

IF NOT NOW………….THEN WHEN?

Finbar Sean M., formerly of Co Mayo

AFTERTHOUGHT: One is given cause to wonder, if it mightn’t be a wee bit possible that over here in the States, the a few of the lads of the US Catholic Bishops could be hearing the Holy Spirit placing similar ‘wild’ courageous ideas on their hearts---if their hearts are up to listenin’ to such messages. Seems like they have the same problems here as we do over to home-----only, more, bigger, worse. Hmmm! I wonder??

Bridget Mary's Reflection:

Brava for this Irish Prophet, who is challenging the clerical model from within, and who is speaking truth to power. The Spirit is moving and more and more believers are calling for married priests, women priests and an empowered people of God. I admire the Irish Priests Association who has publically stated that unless the church reforms in Ireland, it is heading over the precipice! The church is called to follow Jesus example of justice and equality. Visionary priests like, the Irish Priests Association and Fr. Roy Bourgeois in the United States, are shaking up the hierarchy by predicting the demise of the entire clerical house of cards. They are standing in solidarity with women priests.

I rejoice that so many now are speaking our for justice and equality in the church. Women Priests stand in solidarity with you too!

Bridget Mary Meehan, RCWP

http://www.associationofromancatholicwomenpriests.org/

sofiabmm@aol.com

"Local 'Mother Teresa' Beaten in Bradenton Home: Sr. Nora Brick Forgives Assailant

http://www.heraldtribune.com/article/20110216/ARTICLE/102161020?p=2&tc=pg



"A slip of a woman barely 5 feet tall, Brick sometimes growls in her Irish accent and wags her finger to scold some down-on-his-luck person with an attitude who ambles into her Stillpoint House of Prayer.For decades, the 81-year-old has been aiding the wayward on Bradenton's 14th Street West, one of the toughest stretches anywhere along the 265-mile Tamiami Trail. Brick was at it again Monday evening -- this time opening the door of her mobile home a couple of miles away for a man who needed some food and water. But the man -- described as 5-foot-10 and 190 pounds -- turned on the 100-pound lady, dragged her to a bedroom and repeatedly punched her in the face and head."



Bridget Mary's Reflection:

Our love and prayers are with Sr. Nora Brick who is preaching the Gospel of Compassion and Justice for the poor with her life. Jesus said " offer no resistance to one who is evil...love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you." Thank you, Sister Nora, for showing us how to be the compassion of God in loving service to others. May we too see the face of Christ in all our sisters and brothers expecially those who are hurting and who attack us. May our world live the path of non-violent resistance that Jesus taught us.
Bridget Mary Meehan, RCWP
http://www.associationofromancatholicwomenpriests.org/

"Women Priests Demonstrate Profound Faithfulness to God" by Jamie L. Manson/ NCR Online

http://www.ncronline.org/blogs/grace-margins/women-priests-demonstrate-profound-faithfulness-god

"This weekend Pink Smoke had its debut as part of the Athena film festival hosted by Barnard College in New York. The film had been screened previously at the national Call to Action conference last November. The documentary chronicles the fight against the injustice of the ban on women’s ordination in the Roman Catholic Church. .."
"The womenpriests are manna for many Catholics who, too, are in exile; these communities of Catholics are clearly manna for the womenpriests as well. "
.."In many ways, their movement reflects the early Christian Church before it was accepted by the Empire. The risks that many womenpriests take infuse their ministries with a deep sense of commitment. "
"Pink Smoke leaves you hoping that all of the grace received through their living as marginal church communities will be remembered and sustained when women are welcomed finally into the priesthood of the Roman Catholic Church."



Bridget Mary's Reflection:

Excellent article by Jamie Manson! I really don't think that RCWP will be be welcomed in to the priesthood by the institutional church in our lifetime. if the hysterics of the hierarchy in response to our movement is any indicator!!)
However, I appreciate Jamie's challenge to RCWP.
Indeed it is our call as women priests, to stay on the margins with the oppressed and live as prophetic witnesses within an empowered community of believers where justice for all, including women in our church and world in our mission!
Bridget Mary Meehan, RCWP
http://www.associationofromancatholicwomenpriests.org/

Dr. Robert McClory: What You Can Do in Reponse to Hijacking of Vatican II

Statement from Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests: "its about a Monarchy Masquerading as a Charity"

For immediate release: Friday, February 11, 2011
Statement regarding Philadelphia Grand Jury Report
Statement by David Clohessy of St. Louis, Director of SNAP, the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests (314 566 9790, SNAPclohessy@aol.com)

...Fundamentally, this is not really or largely about the men – those who committed the horrific crimes - Engelhardt, Brennan, or Avery - or those who concealed the crimes - Bevalaqua, Rigali or Lynn.

It’s is about an ancient, secretive, self serving still-intact church hierarchy, structure and culture, in Philadelphia and across the globe. It’s about a deeply-rooted, still-flourishing, stunningly selfish group of men who head a dangerous monarchy masquerading as a charity.

Bridget Mary's Response;
The Survivors Network say it best: "it's about a dangerous monarchy masquerading as a charity."
When will it change?
It will change when Catholics claim their own empowerment as baptized equal members of the church and stop supporting the corrupt hierarchy including the Vatican.
It is time for Catholics to be part of the answer and support grassroots movements to renew the church like the Roman Catholic Women Priests Movement and the Women's Ordination Movement.
Bridget Mary Meehan, RCWP
www.associationofromancatholicwomenpriests.org

"Pope To Be Told Church Here (in Ireland)'On Edge of Collapse' "by John Cooney/Irish Independent

Pope to be told church here 'on edge of collapse'

By John Cooney Religion Correspondent

Monday February 14 2011
THE Pope will be officially told the Irish Catholic Church is "on the edge" of national collapse and has only five to 10 years to make a radical recovery by giving laymen and women a greater say in decision-making.

This warning will be submitted in the coming months in a confidential report to Pope Benedict XVI by an international investigator examining the state of the Irish church in the wake of the Murphy and Ryan reports into clerical child abuse.

Cardinal Sean O'Malley, the archbishop of Boston, gave this commitment at a private meeting with members of the recently formed Catholic Priests' Association, Redemptorist priest Fr Tony Flannery revealed at the weekend.

Addressing the annual meeting of The People of God, a lay reform group, Fr Flannery, who met Cardinal O'Malley, revealed that the US prelate engaged in "serious discussion" with the association.
Fr Flannery said Cardinal O'Malley told the association that the Irish church had a decade, at most, to avoid falling over the edge and "becoming like other European countries" where religion is marginal to society.
Previously sceptical about the Apostolic Visitation to Ireland ordered by Pope Benedict, Fr Flannery said that in the light of Cardinal O'Malley's undertaking, "there may be some gleam of hope".
Support
But he also revealed that at a separate meeting with the papal investigator into the Archdiocese of Tuam, Canadian Archbishop Terrence Prendergast told the association that conservative lay groups in the west had expressed support for the Irish bishops despite their record of cover-ups of paedophile clerics.
Fr Flannery said that while the Association of Catholic Priests was ready to campaign for radical change, it was apprehensive that it would be viewed as "a new clericalism".
The association's preference was for lay groups, such as Pobal, to come forward and give voice to the aspirations of the majority of Catholics for change, Fr Flannery added. "
- John Cooney Religion Correspondent
Irish Independent
http://www.independent.ie/national-news/pope-to-be-told-church-here-on-edge-of-collapse-2538910.html

Bridget Mary's Response:
I am Irish born as most of you know and return often to my homeland. My young cousins no longer attend weekly liturgy. They show up for special events only. I agree with the assessment that the Irish Church is 'on the edge of collapse". It was evident during my visit with the women's ordination advocates in Ireland that the Roman Catholic Church in Ireland is on the precipice. Most people whom I spoke with were in utter disgust with the pedophilia cover-up that points to major involvement of the Vatican, the lack of pastoral concern for victims of clerical sex abuse, and the clericalism that has been part and parcel of Irish Catholicism for decades. My father and many others tell hair-raising stories about Canons walking the town with a cane to herd people to missions!
Unless there is structural change and a more open, people-empowered church in Ireland and a renewed priestly ministry which will include women priests and married priests in a community of equals, the institutional church will collapse in Ireland- just as it is has on the continent. Let's hope vibrant communities will call forth both women and men to serve as leaders in a people-empowered, renewed church! The problem is Pope Benedict is on record stating that he wants a smaller, more loyal, "orthdox" RC Church, so if that is accurate as reported, then it is up to the grassroots Catholic communities who love their faith to come forward and renew the church from below, not from above! May it be so in our lifetime! Our Celtic spiritual heritage is worth keeping and spreading. ( See my book Praying with Celtic Holy Women, on amazon.com)
Bridget Mary Meehan, RCWP
www.associationofromancatholicwomenpriests.org

What Other Church Would Get Away with Criminal Behavior? Time for Roman Catholics To Act Like Egyptian People in Response to Tsunami of Abuse

John Chuchman writes:
"Over the past decade, prosecutors have pressed high-ranking church officials in the U.S. to accept responsibility for covering up abuse but never actually brought criminal charges against them as individuals.
For instance, Phoenix Bishop Thomas O'Brien admitted in 2003 that he sheltered abusive priests, an acknowledgment made as part of a deal with prosecutors that gave him immunity from any potential obstruction-of-justice charge. He agreed to institute reforms and cede some authority to other church officials.
The Diocese of Manchester, N.H., admitted wrongdoing but avoided criminal charges in 2003.
The Archdiocese of Cincinnati pleaded no contest in 2003 to charges of failing to tell authorities about sex abuse claims against priests, paid a find and created a fund for victims.
And in 2005, the Boston Archdiocese struck a deal to avoid an unprecedented federal indictment on allegations of making a false statement to federal authorities.
Among other things, the archdiocese agreed to closer scrutiny of its child-protection programs.The Philadelphia District Attorney's Office also convened a grand jury in 2002 to look into abuse by priests since the 1960s. Its report, issued in 2005, said that there was evidence of abuse by at least 63 priests and that church officials had transferred offenders to other parishes and dioceses. While Bevilacqua and other church officials were criticized, none were charged."

Bridget Mary's Reflection:
Like the Egyptian people who conducted a peaceful revolution that brought down a corrupt government, it is time for ordinary Catholics to take action in response to the world-wide tsunami of clergy sexual abuse. It is time to demand accountability from the hierarchy and to demand that prosecutors no longer give the RC Church hierarchy a "pass" when there is evidence of abuse by priests. If Cardinal Bevilacqua was Mr. Bevilacqua, would he be doing hard time in a prison for similar charges? Does the RC Church get special treatment in civil law and criminal courts? If so, why?
We need to change the structures that failed to protect thousands of Catholic youth? We need to call for the resignations of bishops who kept pedophiles in ministry. We need to affirm priests of integrity and open our doors to married priests and women priests. (This is already a reality in grassroots communities and this movement will grow.)
We need the people of God to take their rightful place in decision-making roles in our church. No longer should these roles be limited by canon law to the clergy. We are in a world of hurt. It is time for a peaceful revolution to transform our beloved church into a more open, compassionate and just community that resembles Jesus' vision in the Gospels.
Bridget Mary Meehan, RCWP
www.associationofromancatholicwomenpriests.org

Grand Jury Indicts Philadelphia Chancery Official, Raps Retired Cardinal

February 11, 2011
"Msgr. William Lynn, a Philadelphia pastor who headed the Archdiocese of Philadelphia’s office of clergy from 1992 to 2004, has been indicted on two counts on endangering the welfare of a child. "

"In a report released along with the indictments, a grand jury indicated that they had also considered charges against retired Cardinal Anthony Bevilacqua.
District Attorney Seth Williams said at a press conference that Msgr. Lynn “supervised two of the abusers . . . knew they were dangerous, and chose to expose them to new victims.” The indictment marks the first time that an American chancery official has faced criminal charges for covering up evidence of clerical abuse. "

"The indictments came as the result of a grand-jury investigation that produced a stinging indictment of the Philadelphia archdiocese and its response to sexual abuse. The grand jury's report charged that archdiocesan programs allegedly designed to assist victims of abuse have in fact been used to protect accused clerics and Church officials, and expresses suspicions that priests who have been credibly charged with abuse are still in active ministry, despite the US bishops' clear policy guidelines requiring their suspension. "

"The grand jury report was the 2nd such inquiry into possible criminal behavior in the Philadelphia archdiocese. And earlier report, issued in 2005, had contained a blistering denunciation of the archdiocese. But at that time, the grand jury stopped short of recommending criminal charges, explaining that there was not adequate evidence to support successful prosecution of acts that had taken place within the statue of limitations. The new grand jury found such evidence, thanks to the emergence of new witnesses. "

"Indicted and arrested along with Msgr. Lynn were four priests accused of abusing boys. Three priests are accused of raping one boy between 1998 and 2000; the fourth is accused of raping a 14-year-old boy in 1996. The grand jury report recounts the priests' offenses in lurid detail, and underlines evidence that Msgr. Lynn was fully informed about the priests' misconduct. "

"The grand jury report indicates that the panel seriously considered criminal charges against Cardinal Bevilacqua. In a section that clearly indicates the depth of suspicion focused on the archdiocese, the report explains:
The Cardinal’s top lawyer appeared before the grand jury and testified that the Cardinal, at 87, suffers from dementia and cancer. We are not entirely sure what to believe on that point. We do know, however, that over the years Cardinal Bevilacqua was kept closely advised of Monsignor Lynn’s activities, and personally authorized many of them. On the other hand, we do not have good evidence about the Cardinal’s actions specifically as to Father Avery and Father Brennan, the two priests whose treatment forms the basis for the endangering charge against Lynn. The documents clearly show what Lynn knew in these two cases and what he did or didn’t do about it. But that direct link is lacking as to Cardinal Bevilacqua. On balance, we cannot conclude that a successful prosecution can be brought against the Cardinal – at least for the moment. New reports of abuse continue to come in. ?"
"In announcing the indictments, district attorney Williams identified himself as a Catholic. He said":
"The criminal acts that occurred here are not representative of my religion. They are the bad acts of individual men. I recognize all the good that the Roman Catholic Church has done and continues to do in the world. But I am sworn to uphold the law, and I will do what is necessary to protect children. There must be more separation between the things the church does in the name of helping victims and the things the church does in an effort to protect itself from financial liability and ill repute…..I love my church but I detest the criminal behavior of priests who abuse or allow the abuse of children. "

Remembrance Service for Robert Fawcett at Oakwood Manor on Feb. 11, 2011

Candles lit in honor of Robert Fawcett
at Remembrance's Celebration



Tim Fawcett gave a eulogy for his Dad
Joan, wife of Bob, and daughter Kristin stand behind Tim.



Jack Meehan, played "Amazing Grace"
and "When Saints Go Marching in"
and background music

On the last day of his life, Robert Fawcett swam and attended a fun Super Bowl party at Lois and Ron Charron's home on Sunday, Feb. 5, 2011. On his return home, he collapsed and died instantly outside his door. His wife Joan said that she remembered hearing a noise outside and went out to see if Bob was on his way in. Indeed, it was a terrible shock when she found her dear Bob had died. The community offered support at this time of grief. They provided help with calls and armed with a "to do" list sprung into action. I offered a resource for the Memorial Service and volunteered to officiate at the service. The family made a beautiful program with a photo of a beautiful sunset, the Irish blessing , a photo of Bob, and order of service.

Over 100 people from Oakwood Manor gathered at the Club House on Friday Feb. 11th to celebrate Bob's life. His family -wife- Joan and sons and daughter, neighbors and friends lit candles and paid tribute to his life with heart-felt stories. We learned that Bob was a respected school teacher and that he organized teams and sports events for the youth of his town in Canada. All of us here at Oakwood Manor will miss Bob who was a kind man who had an encouraging word for all and a delightful sense of humor.
The community recited the closing prayer together."Loving God, we remember Robert Fawcett. We pray that he may rest in eternal light and everlasting peace. We will carry him in our hearts forever. "
Bridget Mary Meehan, RCWP
http://www.associationofromancatholicwomenpriests.org/

Bishop Patricia Fresen in U.S./ Will Speak in Sarasota, Florida on April 9th, 2011 "Transformed by Compassion"

Bishop Patricia Fresen

A Special Event !

As part of a U.S. Tour
Dr. Patricia Fresen comes to Sarasota, Florida
A Talk You Don’t Want to Miss To
April 9th, 2011

TRANSFORMED BY COMPASSION

In this talk, Dr Fresen draws on medieval as well as contemporary sources to show that compassion can break down political, dogmatic, ideological and religious boundaries.
Releasing the energy of compassion into our world is possibly the most important calling each of us has, whoever we are and whatever our life situation may be.
"The ultimate power of God, universe and humanity is compassion." (Matthew Fox)
"The principle of compassion lies at the heart of all religious, ethical and spiritual traditions, calling us always to treat all others as we wish to be treated ourselves. We urgently need to make compassion a clear, luminous and dynamic force in our polarized world.” (Karen Armstrong)

Location

St. Andrew United Church of Christ,

6908 Beneva Rd. Sarasota, Florida 34238,

April 9th 4 PM--5:30PM; followed by liturgy at 6PM (Mary Mother of Jesus Inclusive Catholic Community

Suggested offering: $20/couples $30

Contact: sofiabmm@aol.com

941-955-2313

About your speaker:
Patricia Fresen, a Roman Catholic Woman Bishop, was born and raised in South Africa. She joined the RC Dominican Congregation upon completion of her secondary education. After obtaining degrees in Arts and Education, she taught in Convent High Schools while also being involved in School Administration. After many years of teaching, she spent seven years in Rome, studying theology at the University of St. Thomas and at the Gregoriana. It was there that she obtained a Licentiate in Theology. She returned to S. Africa in 1988 and was invited to join the faculty of the National Seminary in Pretoria, where she taught Sacramental Theology, Spirituality and Homiletics. In May of 1996, she completed her doctoral studies and thesis and obtained the Doctorate in Theology through the University of South Africa. From 1999 - 2003 Dr Fresen was on the Faculty of the Catholic University in Johannesburg.
In August 2003 she was ordained a Roman Catholic priest. As a result, she had to leave the Dominicans and give up her position at Catholic University. She subsequently moved to Germany, where she lives today. That same year, 2003, she became the Co-ordinator of the Training Program in Preparation for Priesthood for R.C. Womenpriests (RCWP).
In 2005 she was ordained a bishop to help ensure that the ordination of women will continue. Since then, Fresen has presided at many ordinations in Europe, Canada and the USA. The number of R.C. Women Priests grows year by year.
Since joining RCWP, Dr Fresen has been invited to speak at conferences or to lead retreats in the USA, Canada, Europe and South Africa.

Maureen Dowd- Right On- Again- New App. Leaves Out Women Priests

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/02/09/opinion/09dowd.html?hp

EXCERPT: The app also tailors the questions if you sign in as a priest or a “religious.” For instance, if you say you’re a female and try to select “priest” as your vocation, a dialogue box appears that says “sex and vocation are incompatible.” So much for modernity.

Bridget Mary's Response;
Right on Maureen Dowd! So much for this new app bringing you closer to God- if you are a female-forget it! Check out the examination of conscience for women vs. men, girls vs. boys! I wonder who worked on this examination of conscience? What's next email your sins to a cyber- space confessor. Just hit confessional box on app, send in your sins, and receive a return penance with serveral stars that flash the number for the indulgences received? I think this new app. needs more work- specifically input from women and a new category for women priests!! www.associationofromancatholicwomenpriests.org

Roman Catholic Clergy Sexual Abuse Web Sites: Update

SNAP Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests.

http://www.snapnetwork.org/

National Survivor Advocates Coalition:

http://www.nationalsurvivoradvocatescoalition.wordpress.com/.


Bishops Accountability.org

http://www.bishop-accountability.org/

If anyone is interested in getting on the list serve, just email Steve Sheehan at Sheehan1777@aol.com

Will Women Priests Change the Church? by Mary Hunt/We Already Have/ by Bridget Mary Meehan

Judy Lee, RCWP presdes at
House Church Community Liturgy
in Ft. Myers, Florida

http://www.religiondispatches.org/archive/atheologies/4137/will_women_priests_change_the_church/
"Catholic women priests are an oxymoron for the Vatican. It considers them automatically excommunicated before the holy oil is dry on their hands. Other Catholics accept them as sacramental ministers and are delighted with the innovation. Still, others, myself included, want far deeper structural changes in the Catholic Church such that priesthood loses its baked-on charm and ministry becomes the expected task of adult members. This is an important theological conversation that the Vatican wishes would go away. Memo to them: it is just starting."
"Pink Smoke Over the Vatican is a new documentary that is making the rounds at film festivals (it will debut in New York on February 12 at the Athena Film Festival, hosted by Barnard College). The title refers to protests held at churches around the country during the Conclave in 2005 that elected Pope Benedict XVI where women created pink smoke — instead of the traditional white smoke that heralds the choice of a pope — to draw attention to the fact that the election was a men’s club affair. (Only Cardinals under the age of eighty may vote and no women are cardinals yet.)Catholic women priests are an oxymoron for the Vatican. It considers them automatically excommunicated before the holy oil is dry on their hands. Other Catholics accept them as sacramental ministers and are delighted with the innovation. Still, others, myself included, want far deeper structural changes in the Catholic Church such that priesthood loses its baked-on charm and ministry becomes the expected task of adult members. This is an important theological conversation that the Vatican wishes would go away. Memo to them: it is just starting. "
"Pink Smoke Over the Vatican is a new documentary that is making the rounds at film festivals (it will debut in New York on February 12 at the Athena Film Festival, hosted by Barnard College). The title refers to protests held at churches around the country during the Conclave in 2005 that elected Pope Benedict XVI where women created pink smoke — instead of the traditional white smoke that heralds the choice of a pope — to draw attention to the fact that the election was a men’s club affair. (Only Cardinals under the age of eighty may vote and no women are cardinals yet.) "

Bridget Mary's Response:

I agree with Dr. Hunt's analysis that structural change in the Roman Catholic Church is essential to the transformation and renewal of the church. I do not fear Roman Catholic Women Priests will be co-opted by the hierarchy!

Roman Catholic Women Priests have already changed the church in grassroots inclusive communities.We celebrate inclusive liturgies at which the gathered assembly recite the Eucharisitic Prayer. We minister within a community of equals that reaches out to the world in diverse ministries according to their gifts. We are devoted to serving on the edge with the marginalized and poor in our midst. We stand in solidarity with the peace and justice prophetic mission of the church and are part of the paradigm shift toward women's equality and justice for all that is taking place in our world.

In the Association of Roman Catholic Women Priests, we envision our charism as a journey of justice for all, for women in the church, that includes the ordination of women priests as an issue of justice. We also connect the mission of Roman Catholic Women Priests to ministry with the marginalized and oppressed in a community of equals.

The unique focus of the Association of Roman Catholic Women Priests
is on justice and equality:
1. We seek equality for women in the church including ordination,
and justice for all.
2. We serve the poor and marginalized.
3. We live the spiritual and social justice tradition of the church
in inclusive communities of equals.

Bridget Mary Meehan RCWP

http://www.associationofromancatholicwomenpriests.org/

sofiabmm@aol.com

An Open Letter to the U.S. Catholic Bishops on the Forthcoming Missal/RCWP offer Inclusive Language and Imagery of God in our Liturgies

http://www.americamagazine.org/content/article.cfm?article_id=12688&o=38064

Your Eminences, Your Excellencies,

"With a heavy heart, I have recently made a difficult decision concerning the new English missal. I have decided to withdraw from all my upcoming speaking engagements on the Roman Missal in dioceses across the United States. After talking with my confessor and much prayer, I have concluded that I cannot promote the new missal translation with integrity. I知 sure bishops want a speaker who can put the new missal in a positive light, and"...

Bridget Mary's Reflecton:
Roman Catholic Women Priests use inclusive language in our liturgies that utilize feminine and masculine images in our speech about God, such as God, our Creator, and/or God, our Mother and Father.
Catholics define God as pure spirit, but if we address God utilizing only male metaphors we limit God who is beyond all images. Praying with feminine images of God introduce us into a variety of new possibilities for prayer that will enrich our spiritual growth and help us transform political, social, and economic systems that oppress us. In the Bible, for example, God is portrayed as a comforting mother, gentle midwife, woman in labor, a nursing mother, and mother of humanity. See my book: Delightng in the Feminine Divine which presents feminine imagery in scripture, the mystical Christian tradition and in contemporary writings. Come and experience a woman priest led liturgy. Experience inclusive liturgies for yourself. Check out our liturgies and compare with the new Vatican Missal.
See : Walking the Prophetic Journey, by Beben and Meehan ( contact: sofiabmm@aol.com)
Eucharistic Prayers for Inclusive Communities by Meehan and Dierks/Woven Word Press. ( available on amazon.com)
Bridget Mary Meehan RCWP
www.associationofromancatholicwomenpriests.org

HOT New Documentary Film on Roman Catholic Women Priests: Previews/Interviews: "Pink Smoke Over Vatican" Award Winner by Jules Hart

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GGij4nobQ18&feature=related
Scenes from “Pink Smoke . . . “

http://vimeo.com/15568168
Interview of Jules Hart---documentary maker [about 52 min.]

Several other sites via google.com


http://womenandmythology.wordpress.com/2010/06/18/review-pink-smoke-over-the-vatican/
Review of “Pink Smoke . . .”

Over 100 Catholics Attend Lecture by Prominent Theologian Robert McClory on the "Hijacking of Vatican II"

Over 100 people attended the excellent lecture by Robert McClory on Feb. 6, 2010 at St. Andrew UCC in Sarasota, Florida. This presentation was sponsored by Southwest Fl. CTA, Voice of the Faithful of Venice, and Mary Mother of Jesus Inclusive Catholic Community. Dr. Michael Rigdon, co-pastor of Mary Mother of Jesus Inclusive Catholic Community introduced Dr. McClory, a prestigous scholar of Vatican II and author of books such as Turning Point: The Inside Story of the Papal Birth Control Commission, As It Was in the Beginning: The Coming Democratization of the Catholic Church, Faithful Dissenters.

Dr. McClory presented some "behind the scenes stories "of Vatican II documents such as the Constitution on Sacred Liturgy. His theory on the present "hijacking of Vatican II" is that this is the vision of Pope Benedict who has stated that he wants a smaller, more faithful, obedient church. However, the papal view , according to McClory is not what Vatican II was about. Pope John XXIII opened the windows of change and dialogue with the world, and embraced the hopes and fears of all humanity. Now Pope Benedict is directing the church in a different direction-- back to Medieval times with popular devotions such as indulgences, relics and Latin liturgies.

Bridget Mary's Reflection:

Dr. Robert McClory's presentation provided an excellent look at the accomplishments of Vatican II and our present Pope's movement backward.

For many Catholics, there is no turning back, only moving forward together. The Spirit of God is in the people of God and continues to speak today through the movement for a more just church and world. One example, the Roman Catholic Women Priests Movement provides another vision of a more open, just and inclusive church. We are laying the groundwork for Vatican III, which will be an Ecumenical Council of the people of God!

I think we are creating a bridge for the "faithful" to cross from the present paradigm to a church where all are welcome to receive sacraments and celebrate inclusive liturgies and where all are called to share their spiritual gifts in a community of equals in service of God's people. We the people of God are the church, as Vatican II taught!

Bridget Mary Meehan, RCWP

http://www.associationofromancatholicwomenpriests.org/

Irish Priests Say "No" to New Vatican Translation of Mass/ Time To Try RCWP Inclusive Liturgies?

Irish priests ask bishops to postpone implementation of new liturgical texts
Feb. 04, 2011
Thomas C. Fox
"The Association of Catholic Priests of Ireland today asked the Irish Bishops to postpone the implementation of the new liturgical texts."

The following is the substance of their statement:
"The ACP understands that the Irish Conference of Bishops has decided that the new translation of the Missal will be introduced in Ireland on the First Sunday of Advent 2011. While a new and improved version of the current missal would be welcome, this new translation is not what is needed. The ACP urgently calls on the bishops to defer its introduction for five years. During that period the bishops, together with the people and priests, can properly examine the suitability of these texts for the Irish Church. The celebration of the Mass is central to our work as priests and, more importantly, to the lives of the people we serve."
read more...
http://ncronline.org/blogs/ncr-today

Bridget Mary's Reflection:
Three cheers for the Irish priests for challenging this underwhelming translation. Some biblical and liturgical scholars, priests and bishops have openly criticized these texts, but the Vatican doesn's seem to get it! Maybe, they should boycott or postpone this new Vatican translation until a more suitable English translation can be completed.

Meanwhile, Roman Catholic Women Priests use inclusive language in our liturgies. I cannot count the number of times people have shared their joy that women priests now preside at liturgy. In our liturgies at Mary Mother of Jesus Inclusive Catholic Community, we invite the assembly to share their insights in a shared homily. Then, they gather around the altar and pray the Eucharistic Prayer.

In my new book, Living Gospel Equality Now- Loving in the Heart of God (amazon.com), I have included several liturgies with inclusive language for different seasons. The final liturgy is entitled: "Liturgy to Celebrate Justice, Partnership and Equality for Women in Church and Society." There may be some brave priests (like the Irish priests) and even bishops who would like to "try on" inclusive liturgical texts that express Gospel equality and inclusion now. Maybe, the Vatican will catch on one day.

I will never give up hope for the renewal and reform of our beloved church. There are many spiritual treasures in our Catholic tradition including our sacramental, mystical and social justice tradition. My faith is in my Irish DNA.
Bridget Mary Meehan RCWP
http://www.associationofromancatholicwomenpriests.org/

"Grandmother of Women's Ordination Movement Remembered" by Thomas C. Fox/National Catholic Reporter

Iris Muller
Roman Catholic Woman Priest

Iris Müller, one of the original seven women ordained in 2002 on the Danube River, died Jan. 30.


Long time advocate of women’s equality and women’s ordination, Muller’s life story is recently captured in a book written by Gretchen Kloten Minney,
“Called: Women Hear the Voice of the Divine.”

"In a chapter entitled “Pioneers: Grandmothers of the Return of Women’s Ordination in the Roman Catholic Church,” Minney writes of Muller and her lifetime friend, Ida Raming, also ordained on the Danube. "

"Minney's book provides a brief background and history of ordination within the church and tells the stories of women feel they have been called to the priesthood. It is published by Wonder Why Publications in Broomfield, CO. 80020 "

The following is taken from the chapter with the permission of the author.
Iris Muller’ story begins in pre-WWII Germany. Muller wasborn an only child in Magdeburg, Germany. Her parents were Lutherans who occasionally attended church services..." (For more article on NCR)

http://ncronline.org/blogs/ncr-today

144 Catholic Theologians Call for End to Compulsory Celibacy, for Women Priests and for a Democratic Church

http://www.dw-world.de/dw/article/0,,14816788,00.html

"Over one hundred Catholic theologians have called for radical reform of the Catholic Church, like the end to compulsory celibacy, in a bid to mend the damage caused by recent sex scandals. "

"Around a third of all Catholic theology professors at universities in Germany, Austria and Switzerland, on Friday called for reforms to the Catholic Church, according to a report in the German daily "Süddeutsche Zeitung".

"It looks like we struck a nerve," said Judith Könemann a professor from Münster and one of 144 signatories of the declaration.

'The professors said that they no longer wanted to stay quiet in the face of child sex abuse scandals that came to light last year and plunged the Catholic Church into an unprecedented crisis. '

'The theologians want to start an open dialogue about the future of the Catholic Church. '

'They called for an end to compulsory celibacy, and for women to be allowed into the priesthood. The theologians also called for the Catholic laity to have more say in the selection of bishops. '

"There hasn't been a comparable revolt by theologians since 1989 when more than 220 academics signed the "Cologne Declaration", which protested against the authoritarian leadership style of the late Pope, John Paul II."

Author: Natalia Dannenberg (AFP, dpa, Reuters)
Editor: Rob Turner

Bridget Mary's Reflection:
Listen up, Vatican prelates! The movement for a more open, democratic, people-empowered church is now embraced by 144 European theologians and by millions of Catholics around the world. It is time to end compulsory celibacy for the priesthood and to affirm women priests who are serving the church with courage and committment. Justice for women in the church is the call of the Spirit in our times. It is time for the Roman Catholic Church to follow Jesus who called women and men as disciples and treated them as equals. Let's pray that our church will embrace the full equality of women in our lifetime.

Bridget Mary Meehan RCWP
www.associationofromancatholicwomenpriests.org

The Pope's ‘Teaching’ on Why Women Can't Be Priests - a New Focus? by Dr. John Wijngaards

Early Church:Women celebrating Eucharist
in Catacomb of St. Priscilla in Rome

http://www.womenpriests.org/teaching/newfocus.asp<http://www.womenpriests.org/teaching/newfocus.asp>The

based on a talk by Dr. John Wijngaards to the Cleopas Society, London


18 January 2011


"Few people will have noticed that a subtle shift has taken place in the central Catholic Teaching Authority with regard to the reasons for which women are being excluded from the ordained ministries."





"In short we may say that, according to Pope Benedict XVI, Christ established a masculine order of bishops and priests; and that the Church of all timesand places has constantly affirmed this as a norm through its practice and teaching.





So what to make of these central assertions by Pope Benedict XVI? We can do no better than briefly examine the validity of each of the three pegs onwhich he now hangs the argument.


1. Jesus appointed only men as apostles. Saying that *Jesus chose only men*, Pope Benedict is not only referring tothe fact that he chose no woman when he appointed the Twelve apostles. He also implies that women were not among the apostles at other crucial events, such as when, at the Last Supper, he commissioned them to celebrate theEucharist and, before his ascension, when he instructed them to teach andbaptise all nations.But is this true?"





"In Luke 8,1-3 we find a clear mention of women following Jesus among the group of disciples. Then there are other examples, such as the Samaritanwoman, who clearly became an apostle to the townspeople of Sychar (John4, 39-42)."


"Again, women were the first witnesses of his resurrection."


"However, most interesting is what happened at the Last Supper."


"Although women are not explicitly mentioned as having been present at the Last Supper, we can safely presume that they were present. And this is rather crucial. "


"For the Council ofTrent<http://www.womenpriests.org/church/trent2.asp> (1563)declared that "through the words *'do this in commemoration of me'*, Christ established the apostles as priests, and ordained that they and other priests should offer his body and blood."

"And medieval theologians routinely saw in this a deliberate restriction to men only: "Christ ordained only men in the Supper when he bestowed the power of consecrating" (Durandus 6,§3<http://www.womenpriests.org/theology/durand2.asp>).


"But whas this the case? Were there no women at the Last Supper?"


"First of all, it's important for us to note that we know from the Gospels that women always took part in Jesus' community meals. It was one way for them to express the new reality of God's kingdom "(SuzanneTunc<http://www.womenpriests.org/scriptur/tunc.asp>).


"Then , the Last Supper was a Paschal meal. Jesus stated: "I have longed to eat this Passover with you" (Luke 22, 7-16). And the whole family, includingwomen, had to take part in the paschal meal as we know from Old Testamentprescriptions (Exodus 12,1-14).Now if other women -- Jesus' mother and women disciples -- were present at the Last Supper, then it is clear that it was to all disciples that Jesus said: "This is my body. Eat of it all of you. Do this in commemoration of me!" And: this is my blood. Drink of it all of you. Whenever you do this, it shall be a memorial to me". (Matthew 26,26-28; 1 Corinthians 11,23-25). So Jesus words “Do this in commemoration of me!” were addressed to all the disciples, women as much as men. It is interesting to note that Holy Communion has always been given equally to men and women. In the same way, Jesus entrusted celebrating the Holy Eucharist in principle to both men and women. And this would imply that Jesus did not exclude women from the ministries. More important, however, is the question whether Jesus established a permanent norm by omitting women from the Twelve apostles... "


"Pope Benedict XVI frantically tries to hang on to the common opinion of the past. He attempts to silence those who have the courage to speak out. But he is doomed to fail. The assertion that Jesus Christ made masculinity an unchangeable feature in the ordained ministries does not stand up to scrutiny..."

Maryknoll Reinstates School of Americas Watch Funding

http://ncronline.org/news/maryknoll-reinstates-school-americas-watch-funding

"A spokesperson for Maryknoll confirmed the news today. "SOA Watch has given us assurances that the funds will be used strictly for their work and that's why we restored those funds," Maryknoll's Mike Virgintino told NCR."A check for the grant, which totals $10,000, was sent to SOA Watch in December, SOA Watch organizers said. The news became public when Call to Action sent an e-mail to supporters yesterday."
..."In a May 24 statement regarding its original decision to pull its support of SOA Watch, Maryknoll wrote it could not “continue its financial support of that organization without giving the impression that it also supports the actions of its leader concerning the issue of women’s ordination.”
"Since the decision to pull funding, 19 separate church and social justice organizations signed onto a letter to Maryknoll encouraging its reinstatement, Call to Action said in their e-mail."
"Said Bourgeois: “I’ve been with the community for 42 years, a priest for 38 years with them, and Maryknoll is my family, my community. To be very honest, I really don’t understand why Maryknoll, who is so well known for its work for justice, will not address this injustice of the exclusion of women as equal members in our church. And so we were very happy. This is a real expression of solidarity and it means a lot to us.”
[Joshua J. McElwee is an NCR staff writer. His e-mail address is jmcelwee@ncronline.org.]

Bridget Mary's Reflection:
There is growing momentum for our Roman Catholic Women Priests Movement in many areas of the world. So, the Vatican is pushing back with all its might! In the end, justice for women in the church will prevail because sexism is always wrong and the second class citizenship of women in the church is contrary to Jesus' example in the Gospels.. The full equality of women in the church including the ordination of women in a renewed priestly ministry, will triumph because women are equal images of God, and are worthy to preside at the altar.
I believe that religious orders like Maryknoll are under pressure from the Vatican to distance themselves from any action that might imply support of women priests. Fr. Roy Bourgeois, a faithful Maryknoll priest, is a prophet for justice for all-- including women in the church. He continues to speak out and stand in solidarity with the Roman Catholic Women Priests movement. I hope that the Maryknoll Order will soon publically follow Fr. Roy's example and speak out publically in support of the full equality of women in the church. Brava, Father Roy, for your courage and vision. You are on the right side of history and have set an example for all of us.
Bridget Mary Meehan RCWP
www.associationofromancatholicwomenpriests.org

Vatican at Center of Global Sexual Abuse Crisis: A Tsunami for the Catholic Church

http://content.usatoday.com/communities/Religion/post/2010/04/scandal-sex-abuse-catholic-vatican-washington/1


"Cardinal Dario Castrillon Hoyos, 80, who once ran the Vatican's Congregation for the Clergy, was going to be the star celebrant at the first Latin Mass to be offered in half a century at the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. But it came to light that the senior cardinal once praised a French bishop for protecting, not reporting, a pedophile priest. "
By Massimo Sambucetti, Associated Press
"Julia Duin reported in The Washington Times,
"Cardinal Hoyos was exposed ...for lauding -- in a 2001 letter -- French Bishop Pierre Pican of Bayeux-Lisieux for refusing to denounce" a priest that the bishop knew was a pedophile.
Duin writes that the priest was later convicted of rape and sexual assaults on 11 youngsters. ...Hoyos wrote Pican a letter that the cardinal claims was approved by the late Pope John Paul II:
"I congratulate you for not denouncing a priest to the civil administration ... You have acted well and I am pleased to have a colleague in the episcopate who, in the eyes of history and of all other bishops in the world, preferred prison to denouncing his son and priest."

Bridget Mary's Reflection:

One of the shocking revelations of the global sexual abuse scandal in the Catholic Church is that Vatican officials played a major role in the coverup that protected priest pedophiles, not their innocent victims.


Cardinal Hoyos was also at the center of the Irish sex abuse scandal. When the Irish bishops met with him in Rome. He resisted their efforts to removed an infamous pedophile from ministry."

http://www.rte.ie/tv/wouldyoubelieve/av_index.html January 17, 2011

"The Pope has blamed Irish bishops for their mishandling of "unspeakable crimes" by priests, but reporter Mick Peelo reveals how not only did the Vatican secretly block the bishop's efforts to improve child protection and bring abuser priests to justice, but were every bit as inept in their own handling of abuse. "

The Vatican, under Pope John Paul II, appointed Cardinal Law, who had kept priest pedophiles in ministry in the Boston Archdiocese, as Archpriest
in charge of the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome.


Cardinal Ratzinger left Fr. Murphy who abused hundreds of deaf children in Wisconsin in the priesthood --in spite of the damage done to the youth and in spite of the local bishop's requests to defrock him. And the list goes on and on.


The bottom line is that the Roman Catholic Church is in the middle of a tsumani. From worldwide news reports, investigative journalism, court records and personal testimonies we now know that the Vatican is at the epic center of the worldwide sexual abuse crisis. This tsnami appears to be uneneding and indicates that the clerical, hierarchial model must be dismantled if the institutional church is to survive as a credible witness to Christ in our world.

Now there is some good news of new beginnings, rooted in a more community-empowered model of church that is chipping away at the clerical model of priestly ministry. In response to Jesus' call, women priests and married priests are bringing new life to our beloved church by founding inclusive grassroots communities where all are welcome to receive sacraments. It is a beginning and a blessing, a gift to the church we love.

Bridget Mary Meehan RCWP
http://www.associationofromancatholicwomenpriests.org/

Gutsy Nun Challenges Archbishop Listecki's decision to File for Bankruptcy/ Milwaukee Archdiocese/Sister Maureen Paul Turlish/ NCR ONLINE

Milwaukee bankruptcy filing masks the truth
by Maureen Paul Turlish on Jan. 10, 2011
http://ncronline.org/blogs/examining-crisis/milwaukee-bankruptcy-filing-masks-truth
"In a Jan. 4 letter to the members of the Catholic Archdiocese of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Archbishop Jerome E. Listecki explained why he felt forced to file for bankruptcy, explaining “priest-perpetrators sexually abused minors, going against everything the church and the priesthood represents.”
..."This evil emanated not only from the sexual violations of innocent children by predatory priests, but also from the failures of enabling bishops to protect them.
Filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy by the Archdiocese of Milwaukee is really about keeping the whole truth of this tragic matter from being made public. The filing has most likely delayed, if not cancelled, the previously scheduled deposition of its former auxiliary, Bishop Richard J. Sklba among others."

[Maureen Paul Turlish is a Sister of Notre Dame de Namur, a member of both the Voice of the Faithful and the National Survivor Advocates Coalition. She testified in support of Delaware’s 2007 Child Victims Law and is the vice-president of the Delaware Association for Children of Alcoholics.]

St. Brigit: Reflecton of Divine Feminine, Advocate for Justice, Peace and Equality/ Like her, may we "turn back the streams of war"

Today, Feb. 1st is the feast day of St. Brigit of Kildare.

Brigit was the most prominent leader of the Celtic Church. Her symbol was perpetual fire, representing wisdom, healing, poetry, metal working and the hearth. The force of her Celtic soul is a rich lodestone of the Celtic feminine which continues to challenge each generation. The stories and legends about her are a blend of Christian beliefs and pagan elements, a mixture of the all encompassing Druidic mother goddess with the dynamic post pagan woman of compassion, generous hospitality and charity to all. She lived the spirit of Jesus who hung out with the poor and outcasts, who challenged authorities in the synagogue, and who dined with the lowly. On one occasion, Brigit gave away apples to a beggar. When challenged by her benefactor, she said: "what is mine is theirs." Even in her early days, she would give away valuable items belonging to her chieften father. Brigit's strong sense of justice was evident during her life. She is known for her advocacy for justice and protection of animals, home and hearth. (Praying with Celtic Holy Women, available at amazon.com and other online retailers.)

Brigit's previous authority as a high priestess may explain why Sant Mel, bishop of Ardagh, is said to have ordained her a bishop. The Irish Life of Brigit describes it this way: "When the hour of consecration had arrived, the veil was raised by angels from the hand of Mac Caille, the minister and was placed on Sant Brigit's head. Bishop Mel who presided at the ceremony said: "Come, O holy Brigit, that a veil may be placed on your head before the other virgins." Then, being filled with the grace of the Holy Spirit, Bishop Mel read the form of ordaining a bishop over Brigit. While she was being consecrated, a brilliant fiery flame ascended from her head. MacCaille, Bishop Mel's assistant, complained that a bishop's rank was bestowed on a woman. Bishop Mel argued. "But I do not have any power in this matter, this dignity has been given by God to Brigit beyond every other woman. Only this virgin in the whole of Ireland will hold the episcopal ordination."

Bishop Brigit co-administered a double monastery of women and men with Bishop Conleth in Kildare, Ireland. On one occasion, when there was not enough beer for her seventeen churches during the Easter season, she changed water into beer to make sure her churches were well-supplied. Talking about abundance and hospitality! Slainte!

Another wonderful story about Brigit that speaks to our contemporary war-plagued world is recounted by Mary Condren, a prominent Irish theologian in an article in the Irish Times.
http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/features/2011/0131/1224288598865.html

"Brigit was also a “peace weaver”, the name given to distinguished women in Old European times. Peaceweavers sometimes married into their enemy’s tribe, and their daughters carried gifts to weave peace. Such women had great negotiating skills and authority. As with such peaceweavers, St Brigit caused mists to appear between opposing sides in order to prevent bloodshed. With her nuns she accompanied protesting warriors to the battlefield, rendering them unable to fight.In historical times, the Abbesses of Kildare, who succeeded the historical 5th century Brigit, could pardon criminals encountered on their way to execution. They were revered figures of authority who were known as “Those Who Turned Back the Streams of War”.

Today, more than ever, we need the spirit of inclusion, partnership and hospitality of St. Brigit of Kildare in our world. Like her, may we work with our sisters and brothers to turn back the "streams of war" and to achieve peace, justice and equality for all.

St. Brigit, pray for us and bless us on this your feast day!
Bridget Mary Meehan, RCWP
http://www.associationofromancatholicwomenpriests.org/