Posted on 04/13/2007 6:54:57 AM PDT by Frank Sheed
Two years into his reign, Pope Benedict XVI is finally poised to make a major mark on American Catholicism with a string of key bishop appointments and important decisions about the future of U.S. seminaries and bishops' involvement in politics.
Benedict's election on April 19, 2005, shook liberals and comforted conservatives who expected a doctrinal hard-liner. So far, they have found an easier hand - and someone who has not made the United States much of a priority.
When Benedict has gained attention, it has mostly been on the world stage, focusing on the re-Christianization of Europe, Islam and mending relations with Orthodox Christians. He also has stressed universal themes of faith and reason.
``The last two years have been much quieter years as far as the papacy is concerned because you have a very different personality'' than John Paul II, said Monsignor Robert Wister, chairman of the church history department at Seton Hall University's School of Theology.
``Many Americans were surprised - some happily, some disappointed - that he did not turn into the pit bull of dogma. He is taking a very pastoral approach, and I think people resonate very positively with that.''
Yet America's turn may be coming. At the top of the list is a looming generational shift among the nation's bishops, whose decisions at the local level greatly affect Catholics in the pews and can carry national weight. For instance, church leaders recently closed parishes in Boston and New York, while the St. Louis archbishop has clashed with a heavily Polish parish over control of its assets.
Key appointments are expected in New York, Baltimore and Detroit, where cardinals have reached retirement age - 75. And retirements or appointments are likely in at least seven other archdioceses...
(Excerpt) Read more at guardian.co.uk ...
I’m glad nothing broke!!!
Your Power Bird is an Eagle |
You are a true inspiration, and many people look to you for guidance. And you are quite demanding in relationships... but you're worth it. People know that you will become even greater than you imagine. |
Hi tulip!
Sorry I took so long to answer. I had to leave last night. :)
You Are Very Happy |
And you don't need a quiz to tell you that! You know how to find pleasure in the little things... And even when life isn't so great, you have a good sense of perspective. |
You Are Storm |
Emotions can effect your powers, but you are generally serene. Powers: controlling weather, creating winds that lift you into flight, generating lightning |
Nah, it is just that everything is happening at once and I am feeling rushed. It is the move that is stressing me out more then the wedding. I hate moving.
I find that having a feline making an odd warbling noise while sitting on one’s skull can have a calming effect.
Of course, 24 pounds of warbling feline sitting on one’s skull has other side effects like difficulty breathing, insomnia, and possibly death.
Your Power Bird is a Cardinal |
You see the wonder in small things, and you are often content with what you have. You life an interesting, colorful life - and you bring color to those around you. Confident and expressive, you believe you know how to live a good life. You're living it! |
Hmmmm ok-ay. If they say so....
It sounds so... peaceful.....
Hi Darks!
Yes, peaceful.
As the world slowly fades out and this strange thrumming resonates through your head.
Your lungs eventually quit fighting for air and relax.
And then the sadistic beast gets up to sit on your stomach and huff about your lack of struggling motions.
Actually Rocky has been known to cause stress.....or headaches. :)
I guess you would and it does (have side effects). hehe
"Here kitty...kitty..."
Saw the bird pings and figured it's time to check in here at the grand ol' UT. [Utah?? Thailand??]
I took the test and their answer was okay, I actually like eagles, but I like my particular choice of eagle better:
I'm conflicted, though, 'cuz I also have a real soft spot in my heart for horses; like this one:
Darwin still hard at work, I see...
“Image Hosted by TRIPOD?”
http://warbirdsofww2.tripod.com/images/Corsair082.jpg
Click through the above link to see the pic, after which it should render fine in the context of the thread.
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