The “Intelligent Design Debate” has been going on a long time:
If the movement of the universe were irrational, and the world rolled on in a random fashion, one would be justified in disbelieving what we say.
But if the world is founded on reason, wisdom, and science, and is filled with orderly beauty, then it must owe its origin and order to none other than the Word of God.
–St. Athanasius, Bishop of Alexandria, died A.D. 373.
…We are praying hard for everyone in Haiti. May all who are unaccounted-for be found safe.
Port-au-Prince Cathedral, January 14We pray for the repose of Archbishop Serge Miot and all the dead.
Many souls certainly went to their deaths without proper preparation; may God be merciful.
We pledge ourselves to help everyone in need.
But before we panic and go reeling off into uncharted spiritual territory–losing perspective on ultimate reality because of the incessant buzzing of the television–let’s remind ourselves of the words of the expert demon to the junior tempter in Screwtape Letter #28:
I sometimes wonder if you young fiends are not kept out on temptation duty too long at a time–if you are not in some danger of becoming infected by the sentiments and values of the humans among whom you work.
They, or course, do tend to regard death as the prime evil, and survival as the greatest good. But that is because we have taught them to do so.
Do not let us be infected by our own propaganda…Whatever you do, keep your patient as safe as you possibly can…
Capuchin Crypt in RomeThe long, dull years of middle-aged prosperity are excellent campaigning weather for us.
It is interesting, Father, the link to the Crypt of the Capuchins….. It states: “death closes the gates of time, and opens those of eternity.” How would you explain that to Thomas? He is having trouble grieving still over the death of his Grandfather. Have any words of advice?
I am sure Thomas prays for your dad. He can do little things to help his grandfather get to heaven, like say extra prayers, be especially good, help out, etc. Visiting his grave is good, too. Death is sad and painful for us, but it is nothing to fear.
Thank you Father. 🙂 I don’t think that he fears it, but I think that he is just very focused on it right now. Something must have triggered the memories….
I fully support your desire to live among the dead.
Question: Do you know of Harold Reeves’ whereabouts?
Father Mark White Blog 
It is interesting, Father, the link to the Crypt of the Capuchins….. It states: “death closes the gates of time, and opens those of eternity.” How would you explain that to Thomas? He is having trouble grieving still over the death of his Grandfather. Have any words of advice?
I am sure Thomas prays for your dad. He can do little things to help his grandfather get to heaven, like say extra prayers, be especially good, help out, etc. Visiting his grave is good, too. Death is sad and painful for us, but it is nothing to fear.
Thank you Father. 🙂 I don’t think that he fears it, but I think that he is just very focused on it right now. Something must have triggered the memories….
I fully support your desire to live among the dead.
Question: Do you know of Harold Reeves’ whereabouts?