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 ...
You could get one that says, “Dont start with me! You know how I get!”
Forewarned is forearmed....;o]
You want nudity because you’ve broken your toe???
The day where we find a new.. home.
Threadworld, the Search for Homeland.
The appropriate tee shirt has long sleeves and ties in the back.
Put ice on it...Did you kick the coffee table?
Intuitive leap. Anyway, it's probably just bruised.
I could use that t-shirt, and a bouncer to throw me in the back of the van for a few blissful hours alone ...
Doorframe.
Accidentally.
Afternoon Darks.
Gosh, this is like a drug. I’m ready to stop shrieking now.
But my toe still hurts.
If it turns black quickly it may be broken.
They don’t do much about broken toes except tape them to the nearest neighbor.
Ice and elevate..
The straight jacket goes on the kid, not you...
Howdy, Stranger!
So this is Threadworld, huh? :looks around: It’s suspiciously like the Flying Castle. Are we in a time warp?
*Perks up*
Yes?
I missed something?
Afternoon!
Ouchie,,You need one that jumps out of the way.
Been there (the toe I mean.) It’s not black yet.
Too many kids for one t-shirt. Believe I’ll read them a story and dispense to various beds.
Usual thing. How u?
Feels good when it quits hurting...
Now you know why I stay here: It’s like a drug...;o]
Patience is hard on Dogs and people.
Yes, it does look like a flying castle.
It also exists on several alternate planes at once.
(Threadworld.)
All linked, but with a purpose.
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