To the French Bishops: Civil Unions are Unacceptable

Avenir de la Culture is the French TFP's cultural campaign that has long fought against moral degradation in society and especially as it appears in the media. The group recently sent a respectful appeal to every French Bishop to stand firm on the traditional teachings of the Catholic Church and natural law regarding homosexuality, and considers the bishops’ proposal for “improved civil unions” morally unacceptable. This proposal, it states, is detrimental because it causes division among Catholics and only widens the chasm between the shepherds and militant grassroots desirous of an uninhibited Church.

Avenir de la Culture to the French Bishops:
Civil Unions Are Unacceptable
Avenir de la Culture has just sent every bishop in France a copy of its “Respectful Appeal to the French Bishops: Have No Fear! – The proposal of an improved ‘civil union’ as an alternative to ‘marriage for all’ divides Catholics and weakens the reaction.”

The Respectful Appeal disapproves of a document issued by the French Bishops Conference (FBC) and individual statements by many bishops, including FBC vice-president Most Rev. Hippolyte Simon, Archbishop of Clermont, that the best way to oppose “marriage for all” is to allow the French Government to establish “improved civil unions.”

Avenir de la Culture recalls that the juridical recognition of same-sex unions runs counter to Church teaching that “there is no right at all to the practice of homosexual acts, which therefore cannot become a foundation for legal claims.”

Indeed, the Catechism of the Catholic Church, promulgated by John Paul II teaches that “supported on Holy Scripture, which presents them as grave depravations, Tradition has always stated that “homosexual acts are intrinsically disordered. They are opposed to natural law (no. 2357).

Avenir de la Culture is a French cultural organization that has long fought against moral degradation in society and especially as it appears in the media. The organization considers the bishops’ proposal for “improved civil unions” morally unacceptable and gravely damaging at a decisive moment of the resistance to the homosexual onslaught. It will eventually cause an unprecedented gap between the majority of the faithful and their shepherds.

The following day, December 20, 2012, Avenir de la Culture published a second Press Release reemphasizing the French bishops’ proposal for “improved civil unions” as morally unacceptable, and encouraging them to follow their Divine Master in preaching the truth from the housetops.

Avenir de la Culture to the French Bishops:
If the Salt Loses its Savor, What Will Replace It?
In its appeal to the French Bishops (press release of yesterday, Dec. 19) Avenir de la Culture considers the proposal for “improved civil unions” as an alternative to “marriage for all” as morally unacceptable.

On the strategic plane, this proposal is detrimental because:

 •  It causes division among committed Catholics who are most keenly aware of vital current issues;

 •  It widens the chasm between the shepherds and militant grassroots desirous of an uninhibited Church.

Another troubling aspect of the bishops’ statements on the Taubira projected bill is the complete absence of any religious argument as if the Catholic faith can no longer be affirmed in the public square.

In real life, this carefully secularist language of the vast majority of bishops creates an imbalance simply because the standard bearers of “modernity” are far from timid. They make no secret of their desire not only to shape society according to their ideology but also to cram the minds of our children and grandchildren with their education programs.

Much like Christian Democratic intellectuals, a majority of the French Bishops appear not to see that common ground for dialogue and collaboration between Christianity and the so-called human rights movement has long vanished. Thus, conflict between Christianity and secularist humanism becomes inevitable.

“Catholic grassroots are not of the same opinion [as most of their bishops.] They would like to see representatives of their Church also speak out on behalf of their Faith.

Are we not disciples of a Master who commanded us not to place a candle under a bushel and Who sent us to preach from the housetops?” states Avenir de la Culture in closing its “Respectful Appeal to the Bishops of France: Have No Fear!”

For further information on Avenir de la Culture and this struggle in defense of traditional marriage in France, please visit their web site at www.avenirdelaculture.fr

Video: What Minnesotans Really Think About Same-Sex "Marraige"

After a long 1,200 mile van ride, ten TFP volunteers arrived in Minnesota very eager to begin their ten-day, state-wide tour in support of God-ordained marriage: the union between 1 man and 1 woman. Two additional teams of TFP members also kicked off campaigns in three other states -- Maryland, Maine and Rhode Island -- bringing the total number of young marriage defenders engaged in this vital effort to 32.

Protest This Pro-homosexual "Concert" at the Catholic College of Saint Rose

The College of Saint Rose appears to place the “tolerance” of grave error above its Catholic identity.  On June 16, the college plans to welcome the Albany Gay Men’s Chorus for a performance titled “Born This Way.” [link]


 

“Born This Way” is a promiscuous song by Lady Gaga designed to shatter common decency and offend God.  It is a flat denial of the truth:  “From the beginning of the creation, God made them male and female” (Mark 10:6).

The Catholic Medical Association confirms:  There is no “homosexual gene.”

“The media have promoted the idea that a ‘gay gene’ has already been discovered…but, in spite of several attempts, none of the much-publicized studies… has been scientifically replicated. A number of authors have carefully reviewed these studies and found that not only do the studies not prove a genetic basis for same-sex attraction; the reports do not even contain such claims…

“If same-sex attraction were genetically determined, then one would expect identical twins to be identical in their sexual attractions. There are, however, numerous reports of identical twins who are not identical in their sexual attractions.”
(Homosexuality & Hope)

However, the stated purpose of the pro-homosexual chorus is “to promote pride in and acceptance of the gay community.”

Reprehensible as it is, this event is not the College of Saint Rose’s only act of cooperation with the homosexual agenda.  The college’s Office of Intercultural Leadership and Identity has hosted an annual “Lavender Reception” to give special recognition to LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgendered) graduates.  Lavender, they explain, is a “color of pride” for the “LGBT civil rights movement.” If that wasn’t bad enough, the college also recognizes the pro-homosexual student group Identity on campus, one among 107 such groups found on Catholic campuses.

Surely it is inappropriate for a Catholic college to cooperate in the promotion of a lifestyle the Church defines as gravely disordered.  As a Catholic educational institution, we hope Saint Rose cancels the objectionable event.

Please join TFP Student Action, together with faithful Catholics around the country, in opposing this scandal by registering your online protest.

Sign your protest here

Please consider making a call to the president’s office.

Contact information (please be polite and respectful)

The College of Saint Rose
Dr. R. Mark Sullivan, President
432 Western Avenue
Albany, New York 12203
Toll-free: 1-800-637-8556
Office phone:  518-454-5121

Assistant to the President
Mrs. Debra Liberatore-LeBlanc
Phone: 518-454-5145

 

Seattle Jesuit: Opposing Same-sex "Marriage" is ‘Denial of Civil Rights’

A Jesuit priest who serves as pastor of a parish in the Archdiocese of Seattle has told National Public Radio that opposition to same-sex marriage is a denial of civil rights. Will he be disciplined? No one is holding their breath...

Read more:
http://www.catholicculture.org/news/headlines/index.cfm?storyid=14556

Goodbye, Military Chaplains

By Rod Dreher
Remember how no clergy member will be forced to perform same-sex marriages against their will. If the Obama administration has its way, all US military chaplains will have to do so. 
Read more:
http://www.theamericanconservative.com/dreher/goodbye-military-chaplains/

Another Homosexual "Catholic" Accepted for Parish Council in Austria

Hilary White, Rome Correspondent
LifeSiteNews.com
Tue Apr 17, 2012

VIENNA – Immediately following the resignation of the parish priest in the town of Stützenhofen after he opposed the election of an active homosexual to his parish council, another homosexual has been confirmed to sit on a Catholic parish council in Austria according to the Standard newspaper. Forty-four year-old Mark Casna, who has lived openly with another man since he was 19, has been accepted for a third term with the approval of the parish priest, Fr. Michael Blassnigg, who told media that he has “no problem with it.”

Casna told the Standard that the Dean of the parish had encouraged him to join. “He knew then that I was in a homosexual relationship,” Casna said.

Casna also commented on his beliefs, saying, “Confession was invented in the Middle Ages, and celibacy is an invention also of the Roman Catholic Church.” He added that he approved of the Austrian Priests’ Initiative that has called for open disobedience on clerical celibacy and female ordination, saying that it is “on track” and that he is confident that the “breakthrough” will succeed.

Kaprun is a village of 3000 a hundred kilometers southwest of Salzburg.

How is It Possible? Cardinal Approves Homosexual Parish Council Member

Cardinal Christoph Schönborn, who leads the Roman Catholic Church in Austria, has apparently confirmed that an openly homosexual man may serve on the parish council at a church in Stutzenhofen – a town in the Weinviertel region. Florian Stangl was elected to the advisory post by members of the congregation, but apparently did not find approval on the part of his pastor, Rev. Gerhard Swierzek.

(Cardinal Christoph Schonborn)

Stangl and his companion resorted to asking for a personal interview with Cardinal Schonborn, who then spoke with the pair and dined with them. According to Austrian daily Die Presse, Cardinal Schonborn decided that Stangl should not be excluded from the position, but the decision was not made public until March 30.

Rev. Swierzek, who had opposed the homosexual Stangl, has since received death threats. Gasoline is said to have been poured through a window at his rectory, while a local newspaper reported that there was a rumour that the priest has left on vacation.

The priest arrived at the editorial offices of Bezirksblätter, the daily newspaper in Stuzenhofen, to demand a retraction of the false report of his absence from the town, while also threatening to file a lawsuit. Local reports says that the Vicar General, Rev. Nikolaus Krasa – who oversees the priests in the region – has advised the outraged priest to remain calm and refrain from any confrontations with the media.

From Spero news, click here for link

Why Dump Starbucks?

A new campaign is urging customers across the globe to 'Dump Starbucks' because it has taken a corporate-wide position that the definition of marriage between one man and one woman should be eliminated and that same-sex marriage should become equally 'normal'. As such, Starbucks has deeply offended at least half its US customers, and the vast majority of its international customers.

On January 12th, 2012, Starbucks issued a memorandum declaring that same-sex marriage 'is core to who we are and what we value as a company.'

Read more:

http://www.dumpstarbucks.com/

The Homosexual Movement Scores a Win in the Fr. Guarnizo Affair - Who Caused the Scandal and Why?

Written by Luiz Sérgio Solimeo

The news spread across the world, creating an international scandal around Fr. Marcel Guarnizo. On February 25, 2012, he denied communion to a lesbian, Ms. Barbara Johnson, at her mother’s funeral Mass. On the 28th, the Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Washington, D.C., Most Rev, Barry Knestout, sent Ms. Johnson a letter of apology criticizing Fr. Guarnizo’s “lack of pastoral sensitivity.”¹

Priest Suspended for “Intimidating Behavior”
Even after receiving that letter, and in spite of having received communion at the Mass from the Eucharistic minister, in media interviews, Ms. Johnson said she would do all in her power to have Fr. Guarnizo removed from the parish. On March 9, the Vicar General sent a letter to the priests of the archdiocese saying that Fr. Guarnizo was “placed on administrative leave with his priestly faculties removed” because of his “intimidating behavior toward parish staff and others.”²

“Lesbian Asks and Archdiocese of Washington Heeds”
Again the news spread around the world, this time presenting the priest’s removal as a consequence of having denied communion to a lesbian. Some examples:

In the United States, among thousands of others, here is the headline in the liberal Huffington Post: “Rev. Marcel Guarnizo Suspended: Priest Who Denied Communion To Lesbian Barbara Johnson, Withdrawn For ‘Intimidating Behavior.’”³

In Brazil, a conservative site, Fratres in Unum, was categorical: “Lesbian Asks and Washington Archdiocese Accedes: Priest Who Denied Her Communion Is Punished.”⁴

In England, the MailOnline notes: “Priest who denied communion to lesbian at mother’s funeral suspended for ‘intimidating behaviour.’”⁵

In Italy, the site Virgilio.it announces: “USA—Priest Who Refused Communion to a Lesbian Suspended – Barbara Johnson, Offended at Her Mother’s Funeral, Celebrates.”⁶

The Homosexual Movement Claims Victory
The web site of Dignity, an organization that rejects Catholic doctrine on homosexual sin, but still calls itself Catholic, did not hide its joy:

“Gay Catholic Leaders Applaud Priest’s Removal from Ministry, Repeat Calls for Dialogue with Church Leaders” reads the headline. The news item continues:

“DignityUSA and Dignity/Washington, DC today applauded the Archdiocese of Washington, DC for suspending Father Marcel Guarnizo from all ministry within the Archdiocese.… “The Archdiocese has acted appropriately in removing Father Guarnizo from ministry,” said Allen Rose, President of Dignity/Washington… “We are encouraged by this action, which will do much to restore Catholics’ faith in our Church’s commitment to pastoral ministry.”⁷

Lesbian Activist and “Catholic” Buddhist
On March 14, Fr. Marcel Guarnizo issued a public statement explaining what occurred and justifying his position. He also asserted that the reason for his ministry removal was because he had denied communion to a lesbian.

On the other hand, with additional data provided by the media and Catholic websites, one now can assemble a pretty reliable analysis of what happened.

For 25 years now, Ms. Jonhson has openly declared herself to be a lesbian and made that clear in a job interview for a position in a Catholic school, in which she called herself a “lesbian and a Buddhist.”⁸ News accounts state that she has been living for 19 years with a partner,⁹ so family members and friends at the Mass could hardly have been ignorant of this, all the more so since she was accompanied by her companion.

It Was Ms. Johnson’s Duty to Avoid the Possibility of Scandal
In the circumstances involving a funeral Mass, and above all for her own mother, it was first and foremost up to Ms. Jonhson to try and avoid any possibility of scandal. This is why it is hard to understand why, a few minutes before Mass started, she went to the sacristy with her partner and introduced her to the priest as “her lover.” The priest tried to speak with her but she left the sacristy and her partner stood in the priest’s way to prevent him from reaching her for further conversation.¹⁰

Was this Scandal Intentional?
During the Mass Father Guarnizo denied her communion because of a problem of conscience that he would fail in performing his duty were he to do so; but he did this so discreetly that it wasn’t noticed even by the Eucharistic minister next to him. This enabled Ms. Johnson to enter into the other line and receive communion.

Therefore, Father Guarnizo gave no scandal whatsoever and the episode became public only thanks to Ms. Johnson, who gave a number of interviews to newspapers and TV networks, presenting herself as the victim of a priest’s fanaticism and “lack of pastoral sensitivity,” in the words of the Vicar General.

Several analysts raised the hypothesis that Ms. Johnson sought to provoke this incident for ideological reasons. For example, in his well-read blog, Father John Zuhlsdorf noted, “a lesbian Buddhist instrumentalized her own mother’s funeral Mass so as to set a trap for a priest whom she wanted to provoke into refusing her Holy Communion.”¹¹

Are there grounds for this hypothesis? It seems so. Ms. Johnson is a homosexual activist,¹² Father Guarnizo did not know her beforehand, and had never asked her anything about her irregular situation. Moreover, it was Ms. Johnson’s sole initiative to make him aware of her situation shortly before Mass started. Accordingly, it does seem plausible that her intent all along was to create an incident in order to advance the homosexual agenda.

Situations when Communion Must be Denied
As Father Marcel Guarnizo recalled in his statement, in addition to the cases when Communion must be denied, listed in Canon 915, there are countless situations in which the priest has to decide on the spot what attitude to take, always seeking to avoid scandal, as much as possible; for example, in the case of non-Catholics, drunkards or drug-addicts, divorcees in new partnerships, who approach to receive communion.

In a July 2004 note to the USCCB, the then Cardinal Ratzinger recalled that denying communion where appropriate “is not a sanction or a penalty. Nor is the minister of Holy Communion passing judgment on the person’s subjective guilt, but rather is reacting to the person’s public unworthiness to receive Holy Communion due to an objective situation of sin.”¹³

Giving Holy Communion Inappropriately Can Scandalize
There can be scandal both in denying communion to someone in a public and visible way when his sin is not public, or in giving communion to someone who is in a public situation of sin or notorious dissent with the Church’s doctrine, and this is well known to the faithful present in the church. A typical example of the latter was the scandal given by Archbishop Niederauer of San Francisco, when he gave communion to two homosexual males associated with the notorious group Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence who presented themselves before him dressed up shamelessly as nuns.¹⁴

An Organized Homosexual Movement
Given the existence of an organized homosexual movement that seeks to impose its ideology by all means and takes advantage of every circumstance to advance its agenda, ecclesiastical authorities and members of the clergy must act with great prudence. It is always important to make it clear that homosexual sexual relationships (as any other sexual relationship outside of marriage) are intrinsically evil and sinful, so that a person publicly living in such a relationship is objectively not in conditions to receive the Holy Eucharist.

Footnotes

1. “Full text: letter of apology to lesbian” at http://www.patheos.com/blogs/deaconsbench/2012/02/full-text-letter-of-apology-to-lesbian/. [back]
2. “Priest who refused communion to lesbian placed on leave, faculties removed — UPDATED” at http://www.patheos.com/blogs/deaconsbench/2012/03/priest-who-gave-communion-to-lesbian-placed-on-leave-faculties-removed/. [back]
3. 03/11/2012 10:03 pm. In the updated next day 03/12/2012 5:33 pm the title was changed: “Rev. Marcel Guarnizo, Priest Who Denied Communion To Lesbian, Put On Leave” at http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/03/11/rev-marcel-guarnizo-pries_n_1338120.html.[back]
4. http://fratresinunum.com/2012/03/12/lesbica-pede-e-arquidiocese-de-washington-atende-padre-que-lhe-negou-a-comunhao-e-punido/.[back]
5. http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2113731/Father-Marcel-Guarnizo-denied-communion-lesbian-mothers-funeral-suspended-intimidating-behaviour.html#ixzz1owcqKa38.[back]
6. http://notizie.virgilio.it/notizie/esteri/2012/03_marzo/12/usa_sospeso_il_reverendo
_che_rifiuto_comunione_a_una_lesbica,34001961.html?pmk=rss.[back]
7. https://www.dignityusa.org/content/gay-catholic-leaders-applaud-priest%E2%80%99s-removal-ministry-repeat-calls-dialogue-with-church-lea.[back]
8. Thomas Peters, “News Outlets Failed to Reveal Lesbian Denied Communion at Mother’s Funeral … is a Buddhist and Gay Rights Activist” at http://www.catholicvote.org/discuss/index.php?p=27899.[back]
9. Cf. Gail Huff, “Barbara Johnson denied communion at mother’s funeral due to sexual orientation” at http://www.wjla.com/articles/2012/02/barbara-johnson-denied-communion-at-mother-s-funeral-due-to-sexual-orientation-73210.html.[back]
10. “Priest: removal from ministry was tied to communion incident” - Fr. Marcel Guarnizo’s Response to the Eucharistic Incident, http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/priest-removal-from-ministry-was-tied-to-communion-incident/.[back]
11. “Prof. Peters examines development in the case of denial of Communion to aggressive lesbian” at http://wdtprs.com/blog/2012/03/prof-peters-examines-development-in-the-case-of-denial-of-communion-to-aggressive-lesbian/.[back]
12. For example, we read in an article The Baltimore Sun of March 14, 2012:
“Gov. Martin O’Malley, who continues to campaign for same-sex marriage in advance of a likely referendum aimed at overturning the law he signed this month, will speak Friday at a conference in Baltimore for gay and lesbian Catholics.
“Also scheduled to appear at the conference …[is] Barbara Johnson, who was denied Communion at her mother’s funeral Mass in Gaithersburg last month because she is a lesbian.” (Matthew Hay Brown, “O’Malley to speak at conference for gay and lesbian Catholics - Cardinal warns that ministry ‘in no manner’ speaks for church” at http://articles.baltimoresun.com/2012-03-14/news/bs-md-new-ways-20120314_1_new-ways-ministry-catholic-bishop-lesbian.[back]
13. Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, “Worthiness to Receive Holy Communion - General Principles” at http://www.priestsforlife.org/magisterium/bishops/04-07ratzingerommunion.htm.[back]
14. Cf. Luiz Sérgio Solimeo, “Sacrilege, Scandal and Homosexual Ideology in San Francisco” at http://www.tfp.org/tfp-home/news-commentary/sacrilege-scandal-and-homosexual-ideology-in-san-francisco.html.[back]

Join Over 20,000 Who Don’t Want ‘Gay-Straight Alliance’ at Notre Dame

Catholic students at Notre Dame don't a GSA club on campus.

Written by William Stover

The Catholic University of Notre Dame now faces another moral crossroads as pro-homosexual advocacy groups, assisted by the liberal media, pressure the university to sanction a “Gay-Straight Alliance” on campus.

Both the student and faculty senates recently passed non-binding resolutions in favor of establishing an official “Gay-Straight Alliance” club.¹ Calling themselves the “4-5 movement” -- a reference to an alleged statistic that 4/5 college-educated people support their cause -- pro-homosexual activists are hoping the university will buckle to their immoral demands.

However, the movement to legitimize homosexual sin does not enjoy widespread support. In fact, a TFP Student Action petition against pro-homosexual clubs on Catholic campuses – including Notre Dame – collected over 20,350 signatures to date among college students and concerned Catholic parents.

The TFP’s online petition urges the president of the University of Notre Dame “not to approve, recognize or finance student clubs or activities that endorse or promote homosexual sin.”

“After inviting pro-abortion president Obama in 2009, Notre Dame once again has two options: To be faithful or to betray; to uphold its Catholic identity or to sell out,” said Tradition Family Property Student Action Director, John Ritchie.

“We hope Fr. John Jenkins will hear the voices of over 20,350 Catholic students and parents and energetically keep the ‘Gay-Straight Alliance,’ or any other equivalent club that fosters that sinful lifestyle, far away from the campus that bears the most pure name of the Blessed Virgin Mary,” he said.

When the homosexual lobby first attempted to start an official club in 1986, the University of Notre Dame’s Board of Fellow’s issued a response, stating that such recognition would be paramount to an “implicit sanction” of a lifestyle “not in keeping with the values of the University or the teachings of the Church.”²

That refusal is just as valid today, especially on the heels of a statement issued by Pope Benedict XVI, warning of “powerful political and cultural currents seeking to alter the legal definition of marriage.”

As the educator of so many young Catholics, we pray that Notre Dame does not cave in to the insidious demands of the homosexual revolution.

Sign here to stop pro-homosexual clubs at Catholic universities

Contact information:

Fr. John I. Jenkins, C.S.C.
University of Notre Dame, President
400 Main Building
Notre Dame, IN 46556
Phone: 574-631-3903

Bishop: Italy Should Recognize Homosexual Couples

RAGUSA, Italy,-- A Catholic bishop in Sicily broke with the Vatican to declare that the Italian government should recognize same-sex unions.

Paolo Urso, bishop of the Sicilian city of Ragusa said homosexual couples should be legally recognized, ANSA reported.

"When two people, even if they're the same sex, decide to live together, it's important for the State to recognize this fact," he was quoted as saying. "But it must be called something different from marriage."

Homosexual Practice and Religious Persecution

Written by Luiz Sérgio Solimeo

Raymond Leo Cardinal Burke stated that it is “critical at this time that Christians stand up for the natural moral law,” especially in defense of life and the family, in an interview with CNA/EWTN News on November 28, 2011.¹

The Prefect of the Supreme Tribunal of the Apostolic Signatura warned about the possibility of religious persecution in the United States. Asked if he could envision U.S. Catholics even being arrested for preaching their faith, he replied: “I can see it happening, yes.” According to the high-ranking prelate, the Church could be accused of “engaging in illegal activity, for instance, in its teaching on human sexuality.”

However, the combative cardinal does not want Catholics to do nothing in face of this. He emphasizes that Christians must “stand strong, give a strong witness and insist on what is right and good for us both as individuals and society.”

Is Religion Opposed to “Human Rights”?
That persecution has already manifested itself in many ways, for example, by obliging several dioceses to give up child adoption services because they are unable to agree with adoption by same-sex couples — a betrayal of Catholic principles on the immorality of homosexual practice.

The Secretary of State has now given a specific doctrinal reason to justify religious persecution by claiming that the Church is an obstacle to the implementation of human rights! Indeed, if “human rights” are identified with the “rights of homosexuals,” by condemning homosexual practice the Church would be setting up obstacles to respecting “human rights.”

These concepts are found in the Remarks in Recognition of International Human Rights Day, presented by the Secretary of State to the United Nations’ Human Rights Commission in Geneva on December 6, 2011.² The document affirms that “gay rights and human rights... are one and the same.”

For the Secretary of State, “obstacles standing in the way of protecting the human rights of LGBT people rest on deeply held personal, political, cultural, and religious beliefs.” The Remarks argue that alleging religious principles to reject the “rights” of homosexuals “is not unlike the justification offered for violent practices towards women like honor killings, widow burning, or female genital mutilation.” Thus, the Remarks say, “slavery… was once justified as sanctioned by God [all emphasis ours].”

The Secretary of State continues: “[N]o practice or tradition trumps the human rights that belong to all of us. And this holds true for inflicting violence on LGBT people, criminalizing their status or behavior, expelling them from their families and communities, or tacitly or explicitly accepting their killing.”

Therefore, religion is supposedly a factor of persecution and violence. Furthermore, when religion is seen as opposed to “human rights,” it begins to be looked at as inhuman and thus unnatural. Thus, the struggle on behalf of human rights presumably requires combating religion – any religion – regardless of is doctrines and practices.

A Religion Closed Up in Church
The Remarks by the Secretary of State distinguish between religious belief and practice: while there is freedom to believe in religious precepts, putting them into practice requires conformity with the new “human rights” theory, that is, the person must resign himself to accepting the legitimacy of homosexual behavior.

Indeed, the Remarks read,

“Universal human rights include freedom of expression and freedom of belief, even if our words or beliefs denigrate the humanity of others. Yet, while we are each free to believe whatever we choose, we cannot do whatever we choose, not in a world where we protect the human rights of all.”

Religion is thus reduced to mere interior beliefs without consequences in real life.

Now then, to the Catholic religion in particular, this distinction is an absurdity. The reason is that morals – that is, the set of principles that regulate human behavior before God and neighbor – are not dissociable from dogma. Indeed, it is in his practical life that man bears testimony to his faith and leads his life according to the Law of God. On the other hand, revealed morals is an explicitation of natural law, accessible to man through the light of reason, which also originates in God, the Creator of all things.

As a consequence, not only moral theology would no longer make any sense but also the moral philosophy and ethics found in every manual of philosophy beginning with the Greek and Roman pagans.

Can Homosexual Behavior Be Equated with Race?
At the same time, the Remarks liken LGBT people to “races” and “religious minorities.”

“Like being a woman, like being a racial, religious, tribal, or ethnic minority, being LGBT does not make you less human. And that is why gay rights are human rights, and human rights are gay rights.”

“Costs are incurred whenever any group is treated as lesser or the other, whether they are women, racial, or religious minorities, or the LGBT.”

However, a behavior such as the practice of homosexuality cannot be equated with a physical type or a cultural standard. While ethnic characteristics are inherited with the genetic patrimony and cultural features passed on with upbringing, individual behavior depends on the person’s free will. There is no such thing as a scientific proof of the existence of a homosexual gene that would lead people compulsively to act in a homosexual fashion. Nor is the anatomy or physiology of homosexuals different from those of other human beings.

The same God Who revealed truths on what we must believe also revealed truths on how we are to live. Footnotes 1. David Kerr, “Cardinal Burke reflects on his first year in the Sacred College,” http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/cardinal-burke-reflects-on-his-first-year-in-the-sacred-college/. [back] 2. Hillary Rodham Clinton, “Remarks in Recognition of International Human Rights Day,” Dec. 6, 2011, http://www.state.gov/secretary/rm/2011/12/178368.htm. [back] 3. 1 John 2:16. [back] 4. Cf. Romans 8:21. [back]

The Liberty of the Children of God
We Catholics belong to a militant Church. Militant, because She is in this world and must face the “world” in the spiritual sense of the word, that is, “the concupiscence of the flesh, and the concupiscence of the eyes, and the pride of life, which is not of the Father, but is of the world.”³

By heeding Cardinal Burke’s appeal, we will bear a “strong witness” to our faith according to the laws of God and to the just laws of men in order to ensure the true liberty of the children of God.⁴

---

Pro-Homosexual Clubs Found at 107 Catholic Colleges: PROTEST NOW

Help Catholic students collect 100,000 Save Our Catholic Colleges protest petitions

Why are pro-homosexual clubs allowed to promote anti-Catholic behavior on Catholic campuses?

After examining the official web sites of 244 Catholic universities and colleges in America, TFP Student Action found that 107 – or 43% – recognize student clubs that favor the homosexual agenda. Many of these clubs promote same-sex “marriage,” open homosexuality in the military, and push for the mainstreaming of unnatural vice.

Here are a few examples:

Saint Norbert College’s Rainbow Alliance promotes anti-Catholic events such as Celebrate Bisexuality Day, National Coming Out Day, Transgender Day, and Gender Bender Dances.

The University of Notre Dame’s Core Council for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual & Questioning Students promotes a campus wide Day of Silence, and works to implement “educational programming on gay and lesbian issues.”

Georgetown University promotes a “Genderfunk Drag Ball” described in these terms: “No matter gay, straight, or bi, lesbian, transgender life, only you can say you’re born this way. Uncap the lipstick, break out the fishnets, draw on the 'stache, unleash the chest hair, and redefine gender in your own way… Challenge yourself, challenge the binary.”

This screen shot of Georgetown University's web site shows how the homosexual agenda is openly promoted at America's oldest Catholic university.

See the list of 107 Catholic universities with objectionable clubs

“Students are getting immoral messages from these clubs,” observed TFP Student Action Director John Ritchie. “A sort of dictatorship of tolerance is slowly squeezing out the truth, silencing Catholic teaching right on Catholic campuses. More and more Catholic college students are confronted with visible, active and well-funded pro-homosexual clubs that openly contradict natural law and undermine moral values. To see this happening at Catholic institutions of higher learning is particularly disturbing.”

“TFP Student Action is rushing to collect 100,000 petitions, urging the presidents of Catholic universities to uphold authentic Catholic doctrine,” Ritchie said. “It’s time to correct the scandal and disband these 107 pro-homosexual clubs.”

Over 17,200 students and concerned parents have already signed the protest petition.

1. Sign your peaceful Save Our Catholic Colleges e-protest now.
You don’t need to be a student to sign. Everyone can join.

2. Spread the word. Help this campaign snowball by inviting your friends to participate. Use email, facebook and others ways to share this message.

TFP Student Action has no intention to defame or disparage anyone with this campaign. We do not harbor personal hatred against any individual.

By intellectually opposing individuals or organizations promoting the homosexual agenda, our only intent is to defend marriage, the family, Catholic education, and the precious remnants of Christian civilization in society.

Related:

How Can the Leading Archbishop in the U.K. Supports Civil Unions?

The Archbishop of Westminster, leading cleric in England and Wales, said the following words at a recent press conference following the Bishops' meeting:

'We would want to emphasise that civil partnerships actually provide a structure in which people of the same sex who want a lifelong relationship [and] a lifelong partnership can find their place and protection and legal provision.

Full story here:

http://rorate-caeli.blogspot.com/2011/11/abp-nichols-civil-partnerships-provide.html

Scene From an Exciting Traditional Marriage Rally: You Can Do One Too!

Here are some pictures from a traditional marriage rally carried out on Sunday, November 20, by young teenage Catholics in Rockford, Il. The public reception to the campaign was truly overwhelmingly favorable and encouraging.

If you would like a banner, like the one shown below, and do a rally like the one shown in these photos, please call Alexander McKay at 717-225-7147, ext. 228.

Study: Homosexuals Not Born That Way

There’s a study that refutes the biological and psychological nonsense that people are "born that way" and that there's nothing that can be done about it.

Holy Scripture and now research both say something quite different.

See full story here:

http://www.renewamerica.com/columns/fischer/111027

Outrageous: 14-year-old Boy Suspended for Saying Homosexuality is Wrong

Honor student Dakota Ary, 14, punished for saying the truth.

A Christian schoolboy was suspended from Western Hills High School in Texas for saying he thought that “being a homosexual is wrong.”



Can you believe this?

The boy’s name is Dakota Ary, and here is his story:

According to news reports, during a German class, Dakota’s teacher started talking about religion and homosexuality in Germany, and even posted a picture on the wall of two men kissing.

Dakota turned to a friend and said he was a Christian and that “being a homosexual is wrong.” The teacher reportedly overheard his comment and sent him to the principal's office. Then, the assistant principal at Fort Worth’s Western Hills High School called Dakota’s mother and said her son was given an in-school suspension, plus two-days of full suspension for what he had said in class against homosexuality.


Send your instant e-protest to Western Hills High School

After several protests, the school agreed to partially revoke the suspension so that Dakota could play in an upcoming football game. But his mother wants the suspension to be completely eliminated from her son's school record, which is only natural, since he did nothing wrong.

Please send a peaceful protest message to the Western Hills High School, telling them that you also think that Dakota Ary did nothing wrong in expressing his belief that homosexuality is wrong.

God fearing Americans must speak out NOW, while they still have the freedom to do so. Otherwise, everyone who disagrees with homosexual vice may soon be forced into silence. And perhaps even punished. Or jailed. In fact, people in Canada and Sweden have already been arrested and jailed for speaking out against homosexual vice. We must not let that happen in America.

Brown University Student Comments on Intolerance of TFP

The following commentary was published the Brown Daily Herald by student guest columnist Garret Johnson:

"There is also a general attitude at Brown that there are only two acceptable political views: liberal, or very liberal. This intolerance of conservative political views reached a fever pitch March 23 when the American Society for the Defense of Tradition, Family and Property came to College Hill to protest Rhode Island's proposed legalization of gay marriage. The group held signs, played bagpipes and handed out pamphlets with their arguments against gay marriage.

"To say that Brown students reacted fiercely would be a gross understatement. While the society members stood on the Main Green and exercised their First Amendment right to free speech, Brown students surrounded the group. One student spat on one of the protesters. Another ran through and ripped a large "Traditional Marriage" banner. Others were seen giving the middle finger to the protesters. The students may have thought terrorizing the protesters and vandalizing their property was funny.

"The University never apologized to the protesters for the broken property, nor did it reprimand the students involved. But to anyone observing the events of March 23, supposedly liberal and accepting Brown students seemed hypocritical, seeking tolerance of different nationalities and skin colors, but not of different political views.

To see how the TFP was treated during this campaign in defense of traditional marriage, see the video by clicking here.

NEW VIDEO: Statewide Tour for Traditional Marriage Meets Incredible Support in Illinois

In a new effort to protect true marriage in Illinois, ten young TFP volunteers departed from Pennsylvania to Chicago on August 19 for an action-packed 18-stop tour.

“Where the rubber hits to road” is a good way to describe the Saint Joseph Caravan in defense of traditional marriage. Before reaching Chicago, our first destination, leaking trailer tires forced us to stop for repairs. Back on the road, torrential rain mixed with hail forced us to pull off the highway again, and only 740 miles later we were graciously welcomed by a family near Chicago. They fed us a delicious dinner, generously provided lodging, and in the morning, saw us off after a hearty round of German pancakes.

Spiritually fortified by the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass at St. John Cantius in Chicago, we prepared for an intense week.

First stop: Downtown Chicago

Our first campaign stop on August 22 was at Daley Plaza, downtown Chicago, a location with plenty of pedestrian traffic. Although a few passersby stopped to argue, most were vocal in their support of authentic marriage. In addition to our usual compliment of banners, fliers and bagpipes, our campaign was enhanced by the presence of local pro-family volunteers.

Daley Plaza, downtown Chicago.

Our next stops for the day were at the Thompson Center, the Art Institute and Union Station. The amount of people walking the sidewalks was incredible making it easy to distribute fliers, 10 Reasons Why Homosexual “Marriage” is Harmful and Must Be Opposed.

“I’ve seen you at the March for Life in Washington, D.C.,” remarked several passersby who were enthusiastic to see us on the streets opposing the culture of death in their hometown. Seconds later, an angry pedestrian yelled “go home!” But two men within earshot immediately came to our defense: “No! Don’t go home,” they said, “we need you to stay here.” And we stayed, of course.

TFP volunteer explains why true marriage must be protected.

One man approached each TFP volunteer, repeating: “Your ignorance and hate is not appreciated.” When asked why he was not demonstrating tolerance, he shot back: “I do not tolerate the Church!” What a revealing comment.

The anti-family bully at Union Station

At Union Station, a self-proclaimed homosexual who claimed to be a Notre Dame graduate, class of 1982, rudely interrupted our final prayer with loud shouts. As we peacefully recited the Hail Mary on the street corner, he attempted to disturb our prayer: “Why won’t you talk to me?! You straight stalkers!” He continued: “I’ve been ‘married’ to my ‘husband’ long than you’ve been alive…”

About fifty people waiting at the crosswalk just stared and listened in various degrees of shock. As soon as a TFP volunteer offered a reply, the anti-family advocate simply raised his agitated voice: “These guys want to tell us how to live.” He obviously wanted to turn the pedestrians against us, but his plan backfired.

“You don’t know anything. You aren’t even married?” he continued. TFP member Preston Noell replied: “As single men, we live celibate lives and we cherish the virtue of chastity.” When he heard that, he was momentarily struck dumb. Then a middle-age man stepped out of the crowd, and said: “I’m married to a woman and support their message.” By now, a sizable crown had gathered, reaching out for fliers and information about the campaign. It was great. We got out a record amount of fliers in no time. Moments later, two ladies walked forward and confronted the yelling pro-homosexual individual toe to toe, making a strong case for traditional marriage with passion and courage.

Another TFP volunteer chimed in. “It’s interesting how the homosexual movement shut down Catholic Charities’ adoption program in Washington, D.C., which served thousands of children, for refusing to place children with same-sex couples. Why do they put their agenda above the good of children and persecute those with moral convictions?”

No answer…

Wearied by a long yet successful day we returned to our host family’s home for a very welcome rest.


Non-Stop Honking for God’s Marriage on the South side of Chicago

August 23: Today’s first campaign was on the South side of Chicago on Stoney Island Ave. Here, support was overwhelming. During the entire campaign there were no more then perhaps ten negative reactions, while non-stop horn honking by about 90% of those driving past the intersection was so, so loud that is was almost impossible to hold a conversation on the sidewalk without shouting. Local pro-family leaders joined the campaign, multiplying the number of pro-traditional marriage signs and “Honk for Traditional Marriage” posters on display.

WOW! So many people honked their support for traditional marriage on the south side of Chicago that is was vitually impossible to hear oneself talk.

Reporters from Chicago’s Channel 5, who just happened to be driving by, were so impressed with the sight that they decided to pull over to film the event, even though they were on a different assignment.

In the afternoon, we campaigned in the Pilsen Neighborhood, where our Spanish version of the flier was a big hit. At this location, a Catholic priest joined us and several policemen kept a watchful eye on the intersection. “Where are you going next?” asked one of the officers. “We want to make sure you’re protected.”


Stops in Springfield and Peoria

August 24: Today’s first campaign was in Springfield, the capitol of Illinois. Again, more outstanding pro-family defenders joined us.

A Catholic priest paused at the intersection near the Old Capitol for a long while to read our banner and signs. “Are you getting a lot of support?” he asked. “Yes. Just listen to all those honks,” responded a TFP volunteer. “That’s good,” he continued: “I’ve become bolder in my old age. Now, when I see evil, I confront it. To give you an idea just how bad things have gotten at my parish, I had to stop giving the sign of peace at Mass because same-sex couples would make out in Church,” he said with concern. “Now, instead, I just bow to the Cross and say ‘may God have mercy on us.’”

From the Old Capitol, we marched about six blocks to the current Capitol building. On the steps of the complex, in front of the large statue of Abraham Lincoln, we resumed our campaign. As the sound of bagpipes echoed across the green, we held our “Honk for Traditional Marriage” signs high, and distributed flyers. Wearied by the heat, but with enthusiasm undiminished, we proceeded into the domed capitol. Entering the rotunda, the sound of Amazing Grace on the bagpipes reverberated in the dome. A final prayer was said and we left to our next destination: Peoria.

In Peoria we campaigned at two locations: Bradley University and the Court House. Local pro-life volunteers with the Family Resources Center joined both these rallies for traditional marriage, which garnered radio and television coverage.

Please pray for us as we move forward on this crusade to defend traditional marriage.


Campaigning in Joliet, Aurora, and Naperville

August 25: Today’s campaigns, along busy roadways and intersections, brought some of the most polarized reactions yet.

On the positive side, we received countless expressions of thanks, encouragement, applause, and support. Especially in Aurora, the number of young people who honked in support was noticeable. With a broad smile, a motorist remarked: “I’ve never seen so many people honk for a sign.”

Aurora: Many young adults supported the campaign at this location.

From his car, a veteran said: “I was in the Army, and that’s what we believe; one man, one woman. Thank you!”

“Are you going to get in front of my car so that I can run you over?” was how another man reacted after erupting into a string of overused profanities and direct verbal attacks against God. “If you ran me over,” responded TFP member John Ritchie, “it would be a crime.” Without hesitation, the pro-homosexual individual loudly retorted: “No, it wouldn’t be a crime, you half-breed, zombie God-worshiper.”

In the first such incident of the caravan, TFP volunteer Joseph Jordan was the victim of a criminal assault. A full can of soda was hurled with significant force from a passing car driving at about 35 mph. Fortunately, the sign he was holding deflected most of the impact. If the soda had hit him on the head, for example, it would have caused considerable harm. Before the day was out, another soda can, this one empty, came our way. This second projectile was dodged, and clattered harmlessly on the sidewalk.

Despite these displays of “tolerance” from pro-homosexual individuals, the campaigns continued with enthusiasm. Contrary to what many people have been led to believe, those who know God’s Law, and wish to see it respected, are a clear majority.


Great Turn Out for Traditional Marriage in Rockford

Our first stop today, August 26, was Rockford, where we were joined by almost 20 local pro-lifers. With our ranks thus swelled, we were able to take our message to the public more visibly than ever.

TV interview in Chicago. To support TFP Student Action's work, please consider sending a donation here.

“I’m surprised how much support you’re getting,” commented one motorist. “Most people agree with you. The problem is that the politicians are out of touch,” he lamented. “What do we do about that?”

Another: “Thank you so much. You give us hope for the youth!”

Our next two stops were in Crystal Lake and Palatine, northwest of Chicago. Again, support was excellent. A reporter with the Daily Herald covered the campaign in Palatine.

And after we wrapped up with a prayer, dismantled our standard and rolled up our banner, we directed our steps to the van. As we crossed the busy cross walk, a gentleman in his car honked and joyfully said: “You cleaned up pretty well.”

The tour is now over, but the spiritual crusade continues.

May God protect America from the homosexual agenda and continue to fortify those who defend the sacred institution of marriage from redefinition.

New York Same-Sex “Marriage”: Did Catholic Bishops “Shrink from the Fight?”

Written by Luiz Sérgio Solimeo

After intense lobbying and propaganda by the homosexual movement, and thanks to the earnest efforts of New York Governor Andrew Cuomo and some last-minute turncoat Republicans, same-sex “marriage” was approved and signed into law in the Empire State. The Omission of Catholic Bishops Nevertheless, neither the efforts by Governor Cuomo—who takes pride in being a Catholic in good standing with the bishops[1]—nor the other factors mentioned above would have sufficed to approve a law that tramples upon natural law and Revelation. It was necessary to neutralize the main power that could prevent such approval—the Holy, Roman, Catholic and Apostolic Church. It was necessary to ensure that the hierarchy would not mobilize the faithful to stand up in defense of the Faith and morals. And the truth is that the Catholic Church was largely absent during this fight. This absence is recognized by none other than the ultra secular New York Times, which clearly campaigned for the law’s approval. On June 25, 2011, under the title, “Behind N.Y. Gay Marriage, an Unlikely Mix of Forces,” Michael Barbaro published in the Times a long and detailed analysis on how the approval of same sex “marriage” was made possible. He explains the role played by millionaire contributors to the Republican Party who supported the law, the intense behind-the-scenes maneuvering in political and other circles, and states, “The Catholic Church, arguably the only institution with the authority and reach to derail same-sex marriage, seemed to shrink from the fight.”[2] He notes that Archbishop Dolan refrained from going to Albany during the polemic and traveled to Seattle on the very week when the issue was coming to a vote. And when the archbishop did make a statement against same sex “marriage,” almost in extremis, “it was over the phone to an Albany-area radio show.” This omission was all the more serious since, as the religious chronicler of USA Today writes, the “key vote” that enabled the law’s approval was that of a Catholic senator, Mark Grisanti (Rep.-Erie and Niagara counties).[3] Whoever Conquers Public Opinion, Takes the Prize Unfortunately, the Catholic bishops seemed to have lost sight of the principle that political struggles are not won in backstage maneuvering but by winning over public opinion; and that a few statements, albeit well articulated, are not enough to achieve this. The public wants leadership and is moved above all by example, concrete actions and symbolic gestures. On their own initiative, some organizations of lay Catholics, including the American TFP, took to the streets to influence public opinion directly. Many Protestant and Jewish leaders promoted rallies in Albany and New York City, particularly Senator Ruben Diaz (Dem.-Bronx), a great defender of true marriage. Yet, the bishops failed to rally Catholics and encourage them to struggle vigorously against the looming threat, which denies the very principle of morality that “good must be done, and evil must be avoided.” Nor is there any record of their summoning priests to speak out earnestly and repeatedly from the Sunday pulpits; of engaging the media with a barrage of interviews, op-eds, articles and speeches; of marshalling men and women religious and the laity itself for an intense campaign of prayer, sacrifice, fasting and public witness to prevent the collective sin of legalized same-sex “marriage” in the Empire State, a great offense and challenge to God. Remember Sodom and Gomorrah The nature of marriage as the fertile and stable union between a man and a woman derives from natural law, from human nature itself. It is the cornerstone of the family, itself the basic building block of society. In addition to having been elevated by Our Lord to the level of a sacrament, the conjugal union of one man and one woman reflects the fundamental moral principles of the Decalogue. The commandments, “do not sin against chastity” and “do not commit adultery” stem from the First Commandment, “love God above all things.” If disobeying God’s Law does not matter, and if it is indifferent to marry according to the laws of nature and Christian Revelation or to enter into a same-sex “marriage” which is its complete opposite, then God either does not exist or He does not take things seriously, which is the same thing (a non-serious God is a contradiction in terms.) If in addition to following natural law we also prize, as we should, the gift par excellence of the Faith, then we cannot see the punishment of Sodom and Gomorrah as a fairy tale. While God obviously does not send punishments like that of Sodom and Gomorrah all the time, there is no doubt that He wanted to turn the punishment of those cities, immersed as they were in the sin against nature, into an example for the whole history of mankind. He wanted to show the seriousness of that sin and His revulsion for it. Obedient and Respectful Laity, Yet Enjoying the Freedom of Children of God With the above considerations, we do not intend to issue a judgment on the attitude of the Archbishop of New York or the other bishops of the Empire State but rather to manifest our anguish as faithful and obedient Catholics (who nonetheless enjoy the freedom of the children of God[4]) and register our protest and inconformity with New York’s legalization of same-sex “marriage.” We pray for our Shepherds and hope that, with God’s grace, they will follow Saint Paul’s advice to Titus: “Preach the word: be instant in season, out of season: reprove, entreat, rebuke in all patience and doctrine.”[5] “To Thee Have I Lifted up my Eyes, who Dwellest in Heaven” Like the Prophet David, in our anguish we turn our eyes to God, beseeching His help and protection,“To thee have I lifted up my eyes, who dwellest in heaven.”[6] And as followers of the spiritual school of Saint Louis Marie de Montfort, we turn particularly to Mary Most Holy, Comforter of the Afflicted, and reiterate our certainty in the victory foreseen at Fatima: “Finally, my Immaculate Heart will triumph!” [1] “One of Andrew Cuomo's first acts after his inauguration as New York's governor…he went to Mass and received communion. …he attended the Jan. 2 Mass with his live-in girlfriend, Sandra Lee…who is also Catholic and divorced…at Albany's Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception—presided over by the local bishop, Howard Hubbard.” (David Gibson, “Andrew Cuomo Takes Communion and Revives the 'Good Catholic' Debate,” Politics Daily, Jan. 7, 2011, http://www.politicsdaily.com/2011/01/07/andrew-cuomo-takes-communion-and-revives-the-good-catholic-deb/print/; “…a photograph of Mr. Cuomo shaking hands with Archbishop Dolan hangs in the governor’s private office.” (Michael Barbaro, “Behind N.Y. Gay Marriage, an Unlikely Mix of Forces” The New York Times, June 25, 2011, http://www.nytimes.com/2011/06/26/nyregion/the-road-to-gay-marriage-in-new-york.html?_r=1&pagewanted=print). [2] Barbaro, “Behind N.Y. Gay Marriage.” (Our emphasis.) [3] Cathy Lynn Grossman, “Key vote for N.Y. gay marriage 'not just Catholic',” USA Today, June 26, 2011, http://content.usatoday.com/communities/Religion/post/2011/06/gay-marriage-passes-ny-religion-/1. [4] Cf. Rom. 8:21; Gal. 2:4. [5] 2 Timothy 4:2. [6] Psalms 122/123