Monday, February 27, 2012

Confession Tomorrow

As Catholics, we are called to go to confession at least once per year.  The Lenten season, as a time of repentance, is a perfect time to pursue this sacrament. 

On Tuesday, February 28th, we will go to confession as a class.

Catholics for centuries have found it profitable to examine their consciences in light of the Ten Commandments.  Click below for an Examination of Conscience that is based on the Ten Commandments and directed at teenagers.


Quote for Reflection
“Confession heals, confession justifies, confession grants pardon of sin, all hope consists in confession; in confession there is a chance for mercy.”
- St. Isidore of Seville
Doctor of the Church
(560 – 636)

Thursday, February 16, 2012

Lent Assignment

Why do I have to fast during Lent?

Lent is less than a week away and it is time to start preparing ourselves for the Lenten traditions:
-          Meatless Fridays
-          Fasting on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday
-          Giving up something

Every Lent I get asked the customary questions:
-          Why do I have to fast during Lent?
-          Why does Jesus care if I eat meat on Friday?  
-          Who even came up with the idea of fasting?

Let’s turn to some people better versed in theology than us for the answers.

History of Fasting
“Fasting originated as a way of saving money on food, so that Christians could give it to the poor. It had a practical end: no meat for you meant more money for those who couldn't afford meat. Giving things up also reminds you that you don't always have to give into your appetites. It reminds you of your ability to exert self-control. And it reminds you of the poor, who go without every day.”
Father James Martin, S.J.
Catholic Author


Why We Fast
“Fasting is a powerful way to stand in solidarity with those who suffer … and to imitate the suffering of Jesus Christ. Fasting also provides an opportunity to seriously examine our own hearts and seek conversion.”
Charles J. Chaput, O.F.M. Cap.
Archbishop of Philadelphia
Who, When, and How do We Fast
Ash Wednesday (2/22) and Good Friday (4/6) are days of fasting and abstinence for Catholics. According to Church law, Catholics older than the age of 14 are supposed to abstain from meat. In addition, those between the ages of 18 and 59, not including pregnant or nursing mothers, should eat only one full meal. Smaller amounts of food—not as much as a full meal—may be eaten in the morning and either at lunchtime or dinner, depending on when you eat your full meal.
Summary of the Catechism of the Catholic Church

Thursday, February 9, 2012

Blessed Chaminade Video Assignment

Mr. Foley's classes should watch the two videos below for a quiz on Tuesday.

This one is a nice summary of his life

250th Anniversary of Blessed William Joseph Chaminade from Kellenberg Memorial Video Produc on Vimeo.

This is a news piece about his miracle that is awaiting Vatican approval.  This young women spoke at school recently and traveled to World Youth Day with our students.

Monday, February 6, 2012

Tremendous Story

A great and moving story about the forgiveness expressed by a group of nuns who had a sister nun killed by a drunk driver.

Drunk driver gets 20 years for Va. crash that led to nun’s death

Cardinal-designate Dolan's Reflection on Deism

This was the reflection we looked at in class the other day.

Cardinal-designate Dolan's reflection