One Year with Pope Leo XIV: The First American Pontiff Leads with Clarity, Tradition, and Pastoral Heart

One Year with Pope Leo XIV: The First American Pontiff Leads with Clarity, Tradition, and Pastoral Heart

May 8, 2026 marks the one-year anniversary of a historic day in the life of the Catholic Church. On May 8, 2025, white smoke rose from the Sistine Chapel, and Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, the Chicago-born Augustinian, emerged on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica as Pope Leo XIV—the first pope from the United States of America. His election was not just a milestone for American Catholics but a profound moment for the universal Church, bridging continents, cultures, and eras of reform.

In this anniversary reflection, we celebrate a pontificate already defined by decisive leadership, doctrinal clarity, pastoral outreach, and a balanced fidelity that honors Pope Francis’s legacy of mercy while restoring many cherished traditions of the papacy. Pope Leo XIV has proven himself a steady helmsman—direct in speech, swift in action, and unafraid to confront challenges head-on. As the Vicar of Christ, Successor of St. Peter, and Bishop of Rome, he deserves our full support, prayers, and loyalty. Ad multos annos, Holy Father!

 A Biography of Robert Francis Prevost: From Chicago Roots to Global Shepherd

Robert Francis Prevost was born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, at Mercy Hospital in the Bronzeville neighborhood. Raised in nearby Dolton, he came from a devout Catholic family with rich multicultural heritage: French, Italian, Spanish, and Louisiana Creole roots. His father, Louis Marius Prevost, a World War II Navy veteran and school superintendent, and his mother, Mildred Martínez, a librarian and educator, instilled in him a deep faith through daily Rosary, parish involvement, and love for the Mass.

Young “Rob” or “Bob” served as an altar boy, sang in the choir, and felt the call to priesthood early. He attended St. Augustine Seminary High School in Michigan, then Villanova University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics in 1977 while studying philosophy. That same year, he entered the novitiate of the Order of Saint Augustine (O.S.A.) in the Province of Our Mother of Good Counsel. He made first vows in 1978 and solemn vows in 1981.

Theological formation followed at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago. Ordained a deacon in 1981 and a priest on June 19, 1982, in Rome by Archbishop Jean Jadot, Prevost pursued advanced studies in Canon Law at the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas (Angelicum), earning a licentiate in 1984 and a doctorate in 1987. His thesis explored the role of the local prior in the Augustinian Order.

Missionary zeal defined much of his early priesthood. Sent to Peru in 1985, he served in Chulucanas and later Trujillo, working as a pastor in poor suburbs, seminary professor of Canon Law, Patristics, and Moral Theology, judicial vicar, and formation director. He learned fluent Spanish, engaged with liberation theology figures like Gustavo Gutiérrez (while remaining grounded in orthodoxy), and defended human rights amid political turmoil, including criticism of corruption and violence from groups like Shining Path. He became a naturalized Peruvian citizen, reflecting his deep bond with the people.

Leadership roles followed. Elected Prior Provincial of his U.S. province in 1999, he was chosen as Prior General of the entire Order of Saint Augustine in 2001, serving two terms until 2013. Based in Rome, he traveled the world, strengthening Augustinian communities. In 2014, Pope Francis appointed him Apostolic Administrator (later Bishop) of Chiclayo, Peru. Consecrated on December 12, 2014 (Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe), he chose the episcopal motto In Illo uno unum—“In the One, we are one”—drawn from St. Augustine’s commentary on Psalm 127/128, emphasizing unity in Christ.

As Bishop of Chiclayo (2015–2023) and briefly Apostolic Administrator of Callao, he focused on formation, education, and service to the marginalized. In 2023, Francis called him to Rome as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America. Created a cardinal that September, he became a key figure in selecting bishops worldwide, known for prudence, synodality, and fidelity.

This background—American roots, Peruvian heart, Augustinian spirituality, canonical expertise—prepared him uniquely for the papacy.

 The Election of Pope Leo XIV: A Surprise and a Gift

Following Pope Francis’s death in April 2025, the conclave gathered amid speculation favoring candidates from the Global South or curial veterans. Few predicted an American. Yet on the second day, May 8, 2025—after four ballots—Cardinal Prevost was elected. White smoke signaled the news; Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti announced “Habemus Papam!” and the name Leo XIV.

The choice of name evoked Pope Leo XIII (1878–1903), pioneer of modern Catholic social teaching (Rerum Novarum). Like his predecessor, Leo XIV would address contemporary upheavals—technological revolutions, AI, migration, inequality—through the lens of the Gospel. His first words from the balcony: “Peace be with all of you!” set a tone of unity and serenity.

Observers noted his “Latin Yankee” persona: missionary experience bridging North and South, administrative skill, and moderate temperament made him a consensus figure—continuing Francis’s emphasis on the peripheries while offering stability.

 Motto and Vision: Unity in Christ

Pope Leo XIV retained his episcopal motto In Illo uno unum. It encapsulates his papacy: the Church’s unity flows not from human effort alone but from communion in the one Christ. As an Augustinian, he draws deeply from St. Augustine’s vision of the Church as the Body of Christ, many members yet one in the Head. This informs his calls for reconciliation, synodality rooted in doctrine, and resistance to polarization.

 Carrying Forward Francis’s Legacy with Traditional Mindedness

Pope Leo XIV has masterfully balanced continuity and renewal. He upholds Pope Francis’s priorities: care for the poor, environmental stewardship (Laudato Si’ and beyond), migrant rights, and synodality. His first-year travels—to Africa, Turkey, Lebanon, and Peru—echo Francis’s outreach to the peripheries. He has issued hundreds of peace appeals, critiqued arms trade and excessive military spending, and promoted dialogue amid global conflicts.

Yet he brings a traditional sensibility that delights many. He has embraced more traditional liturgical vestments, spoken Latin in Masses, and restored elements of papal ceremonial that emphasize the dignity and continuity of the Petrine ministry. He affirms Vatican II as a “guiding star” while interpreting it in continuity with tradition, avoiding rupture. On doctrine—marriage, sexuality, priesthood—he remains clear and firm, countering progressive experiments in places like Germany.

This “both/and” approach—Francis’s mercy with Benedictine/John Paul II clarity—positions him as a bridge-builder. Traditionalists offer measured praise for his liturgical sensibilities and doctrinal steadiness; progressives appreciate his social outreach and humility.

 Direct, Clear, and Decisive: Addressing Issues Head-On

One of Pope Leo XIV’s greatest strengths is clarity. He speaks plainly, without ambiguity. He engages the press effectively, using interviews and briefings to counter misinformation or clarify positions. This directness has served the Church well amid a noisy media landscape.

He has not shied from engaging world leaders, including President Donald Trump. Tensions arose over issues like war, migration, and foreign policy (e.g., conflicts involving Iran). Pope Leo has consistently advocated peace, dialogue, and the dignity of all people, reminding the world that the Pope’s role transcends national politics. He responds thoughtfully, often via reporters, modeling charity while upholding truth.

His swift action shines in governance: appointing bishops with care, addressing clerical issues promptly, and guiding synodal processes toward unity rather than division.

Independent voices affirm this. The Sacerdotus ministry, known for orthodox commentary, has given Pope Leo XIV an “-A” rating for his fidelity, clarity, and leadership. This high mark reflects his success in steering the Barque of Peter with competence and zeal.

 A Single Mishap in an Otherwise Stellar Year

No pontificate is flawless. Some traditional-minded Catholics expressed concern over Pope Leo’s meeting and prayer with Sarah Mullally, the first female Archbishop of Canterbury, in April 2026. While ecumenical dialogue is valuable, the optics of engaging a “lay woman” in a role the Church does not recognize as validly ordained raised eyebrows among those prioritizing clarity on holy orders. It remains his noted misstep—an act of outreach that some saw as overly accommodating—but it does not overshadow the broader pattern of fidelity.

 Bringing Back Traditional Elements of the Papacy

Pope Leo XIV has revived aspects of papal presentation that underscore the office’s sacred character: fuller use of traditional vestments, Latin in key liturgies, and a more formal tone in certain settings. These gestures signal continuity with the Church’s 2,000-year patrimony, reassuring the faithful that reform does not mean rejection of the past. He acts quickly on administrative matters, fostering efficiency and accountability.

His directness—speaking clearly on faith and morals—counters relativism. In a world of confusion, his voice rings true.

 Looking Ahead: Ad Multos Annos!

As we mark this first anniversary, the Church rejoices. Pope Leo XIV embodies what many hoped for: a pastor who loves the poor like Francis, yet upholds tradition with clarity and courage. He navigates geopolitical storms, technological challenges, and internal debates with Augustinian wisdom—unity in Christ above all.

We stand with him as the Vicar of Christ on Earth, the Successor of St. Peter, and the Bishop of Rome. His ministry strengthens the faithful, calls sinners to repentance, and proclaims the Gospel to the nations.

Holy Father, thank you for your “yes” to this daunting vocation. May Our Lady, St. Augustine, and all the saints intercede for you. May your pontificate bear abundant fruit for the salvation of souls.

Ad multos annos! We support you, pray for you, and remain on your side—loyal sons and daughters of the Church.

Pope Francis' 13th Anniversary

On March 13, 2013, the Catholic Church witnessed a historic moment when Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio of Argentina was elected as the 266th successor of St. Peter, taking the name Pope Francis. This year marks the 13th anniversary of that election—a milestone that invites reflection on his profound legacy, even after his passing on April 21, 2025.

Born on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires to Italian immigrant parents, Jorge Mario Bergoglio grew up in a working-class neighborhood. Trained initially as a chemical technician, he experienced a profound calling to the priesthood after a severe illness in his youth, which included pneumonia leading to the partial removal of a lung. He joined the Jesuits in 1958, was ordained a priest in 1969, and later served as provincial superior of the Jesuits in Argentina. His early ministry emphasized pastoral care, education, and closeness to the poor. In 1998, he became Archbishop of Buenos Aires, and Pope John Paul II named him a cardinal in 2001. Known for his humility—he rode the bus, lived simply, and focused on the marginalized—Bergoglio's election as pope broke centuries of tradition: the first from the Americas, the first Jesuit, and the first non-European in over 1,250 years.

Pope Francis's pastoral approach was rooted in mercy, outreach to the "peripheries," and a profound emphasis on encountering people where they are. He famously urged priests and bishops to be "shepherds with the smell of the sheep," drawing from his 2013 Chrism Mass homily and his apostolic exhortation Evangelii Gaudium. This meant leaving the comfort of ecclesiastical structures to engage the hurting, the poor, migrants, and those on society's edges. His motto, Miserando atque eligendo ("by having mercy, he chose him"), captured a vision of a merciful Church that accompanies rather than condemns. He prioritized dialogue, synodality, environmental stewardship (as in Laudato Si'), and care for the vulnerable, modeling a Church that is "bruised, hurting, and dirty because it has been out on the streets."

Not everyone welcomed this vision. From the outset, conservative and traditionalist Catholics voiced strong opposition, often intense criticism bordering on hostility. Some accused him of ambiguity on doctrine, particularly regarding issues like communion for the divorced and remarried in Amoris Laetitia, or of downplaying traditional liturgy (as with restrictions on the extraordinary form of the Latin Mass). Others saw his focus on social justice, migration, and environmental concerns as overly political or aligned with liberal agendas, leading to vocal resistance from figures in the U.S. and elsewhere. Petitions, conferences, and online campaigns portrayed him as straying from orthodoxy, with some even questioning his legitimacy. This backlash reflected deeper tensions between a more rigid, rule-focused Catholicism and Francis's emphasis on mercy and accompaniment.

Yet, recent revelations in the Epstein files have shed light on orchestrated efforts to undermine him. Documents show discussions between Jeffrey Epstein and Steve Bannon, among others, explicitly aiming to "take down Francis," including plans tied to anti-Francis narratives and conservative Catholic networks. These attempts to silence or discredit him highlight how his prophetic voice challenged powerful interests.

Pope Francis was orthodox—1000% Catholic in faith and morals—yet deeply pastoral. He did not run the Church as a businessman or executive but as a shepherd who went among the sheep, acquiring their scent. He upheld timeless doctrine while applying it with compassion, refusing to wield it as a club.

Thanks to his leadership—and, of course, to God's grace—we are witnessing a genuine springtime in Catholicism. Recent years have brought massive surges in conversions and adult baptisms, especially among young people in places like France (over 10,000 adult baptisms in 2025, the highest in decades), the U.S. (dioceses reporting 50-75% increases in Easter converts), and elsewhere. Young adults, often from non-practicing backgrounds, are drawn to the faith's authenticity, mercy, and call to holiness amid a secular world.

Pope Francis's pontificate proved he was right all along: a Church that goes to the margins, smells like the sheep, and leads with mercy flourishes.  He led the world literally during the pandemic when governments chose to shut down.  The video of him walking in an empty St. Peter's Square will always remain epic.  His legacy endures, and one day, we may joyfully hail him as St. Pope Francis. May he rest in peace, and may his example continue to inspire the Church he loved so deeply.

The 108th Anniversary of the Miracle of the Sun: October 13, 2025

 

The Anniversary of the Miracle of the Sun: October 13, 2025

Today, October 13, 2025, marks the 108th anniversary of one of the most extraordinary events in modern religious history: the Miracle of the Sun, which occurred in Fátima, Portugal, in 1917. This phenomenon, witnessed by tens of thousands of people, is deeply tied to the apparitions of Our Lady of Fátima and remains a cornerstone of Catholic devotion, while also sparking debate among skeptics, scientists, and scholars. In this post, we’ll explore the historical context of the event, recount what happened, delve into the story of Our Lady of Fátima, and examine possible psychological and physical explanations for the “dancing sun”—along with refutations of those theories from a perspective grounded in the accounts of the event.

 Historical Context of the Miracle of the Sun

The early 20th century was a tumultuous time in Portugal. The country was grappling with political instability following the overthrow of the monarchy in 1910, which led to the establishment of a secularist First Republic. The new government was often hostile to the Catholic Church, closing religious institutions and promoting anticlerical policies. This created a tense environment for religious expression, particularly in rural areas where faith remained strong.

In the small village of Fátima, located in central Portugal, three young shepherd children—Lúcia dos Santos (aged 10) and her cousins Francisco (9) and Jacinta Marto (7)—reported a series of visions beginning on May 13, 1917. They claimed to have seen a luminous lady who identified herself as the Virgin Mary, appearing above a holm oak tree in the Cova da Iria, a pastureland near their village. The apparitions occurred on the 13th of each month from May to October, except for August, when the children were detained by local authorities. The visions drew increasing attention, with crowds growing from a handful of locals to tens of thousands by October.

The children said the Virgin Mary, whom they called Our Lady of Fátima, delivered messages urging prayer, repentance, and devotion to her Immaculate Heart. She also reportedly shared three “secrets” with the children, which included visions of hell, calls for peace, and prophecies about the future of the Church and the world. The apparitions culminated in the promise of a miracle on October 13, 1917, which the Virgin Mary said would confirm the authenticity of her appearances.

By October, word of the promised miracle had spread across Portugal, drawing an estimated 30,000 to 70,000 people to the Cova da Iria. This diverse crowd included devout Catholics, skeptics, journalists, and even anticlerical officials, all eager to witness what would happen. The stage was set for an event that would become one of the most debated miracles in history.

 What Happened on October 13, 1917?

The day of the Miracle of the Sun began with dreary weather. Rain soaked the crowd gathered in the muddy fields of the Cova da Iria, many of whom had traveled great distances. The three children arrived at the site around noon, and Lúcia reported that the Virgin Mary appeared as promised. According to the children, Mary reiterated her call for prayer and sacrifice, particularly the recitation of the Rosary, and announced that the First World War would soon end. She then directed them to look at the sun.

What followed was a phenomenon that defied explanation for those present. Witnesses reported that the clouds parted, revealing a sun that appeared to “dance” or move erratically in the sky. According to accounts, the sun spun, emitted multicolored lights, and seemed to zigzag or plummet toward the earth before returning to its normal position. The event lasted approximately 10 minutes, and many in the crowd were overcome with awe, fear, or religious fervor. Some fell to their knees, praying or confessing their sins, while others wept or shouted in amazement.

Remarkably, the phenomenon was not confined to the immediate vicinity of Fátima. Reports later surfaced of people up to 40 kilometers away witnessing unusual solar activity. Another striking detail was that the ground and the clothes of the onlookers, previously soaked by hours of rain, were reportedly dry after the event, despite no natural explanation for this sudden drying.

The Miracle of the Sun was widely reported in Portuguese newspapers, including secular outlets like O Século, whose journalist Avelino de Almeida described the event in vivid detail, despite his initial skepticism. The sheer number of witnesses, from diverse backgrounds and beliefs, made the event impossible to dismiss outright, even for those who questioned its supernatural origin.

 Our Lady of Fátima: The Message and Legacy

The apparitions of Our Lady of Fátima are central to understanding the Miracle of the Sun. The Virgin Mary, as described by the children, appeared as a radiant figure dressed in white, holding a rosary and emanating light. She identified herself as “Our Lady of the Rosary” and emphasized the importance of prayer, penance, and conversion to avert divine chastisement and bring peace to the world. Her messages were deeply rooted in Catholic theology, calling for devotion to her Immaculate Heart and warning of the consequences of sin.

The three secrets of Fátima, revealed to the children during the apparitions, have been a focal point of fascination. The first secret was a vision of hell, intended to underscore the reality of eternal consequences. The second secret called for the consecration of Russia to Mary’s Immaculate Heart, predicting that failure to do so would lead to further global conflict. The third secret, kept confidential until 2000, described a vision of a bishop in white being attacked, interpreted by the Vatican as a prophecy of the 20th century’s persecutions of the Church, including the 1981 assassination attempt on Pope John Paul II.

The apparitions and the Miracle of the Sun transformed Fátima into a global pilgrimage site. The Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, built at the Cova da Iria, now attracts millions of visitors annually. Francisco and Jacinta Marto, who died in 1919 and 1920 during the Spanish flu pandemic, were canonized as saints in 2017 by Pope Francis. Lúcia, who became a Carmelite nun and lived until 2005, documented the apparitions in her memoirs, which remain a primary source for the events. The Catholic Church officially recognized the apparitions as worthy of belief in 1930, and Fátima has since become a symbol of hope, faith, and divine intervention for millions.

 Possible Explanations for the Miracle of the Sun

While the Miracle of the Sun is celebrated as a divine sign by believers, skeptics have proposed alternative explanations rooted in psychology and physics. Below, we explore two prominent theories—mass hallucination and atmospheric phenomena—and refute them based on the historical record and witness accounts.

 Psychological Explanation: Mass Hallucination

Theory: One common skeptical explanation is that the Miracle of the Sun was a mass hallucination, a collective psychological phenomenon triggered by religious fervor, expectation, and group dynamics. Proponents of this theory argue that the crowd, primed by months of anticipation and the children’s claims of a forthcoming miracle, experienced a shared delusion. Psychological phenomena like mass hysteria or suggestibility can cause large groups to perceive events that align with their expectations, even if those events have no objective basis. The emotional intensity of the moment, combined with the crowd’s devotion, could have led people to misinterpret natural solar activity or visual distortions as miraculous.

Refutation: The mass hallucination theory struggles to account for several key aspects of the event. First, the crowd was not uniformly composed of devout believers primed for a miracle. Many attendees were skeptics, journalists, or anticlerical officials who approached the event with doubt or outright hostility. For example, Avelino de Almeida, the O Século journalist, was initially dismissive of the apparitions but reported the solar phenomenon in detail, consistent with other witnesses. A mass hallucination would likely require a more homogenous group with shared expectations, which was not the case.

Second, the phenomenon was reported by people far from the Cova da Iria, up to 40 kilometers away, who were unaware of the events in Fátima. These distant witnesses had no psychological priming or group influence, yet they described similar solar anomalies. This undermines the idea that the event was purely a product of collective suggestion.

Third, the physical effects reported—such as the drying of wet clothes and ground—cannot be explained by a hallucination, as these were tangible changes observed by many. Hallucinations affect perception, not physical reality. The diversity of the crowd, the consistency of accounts across distances, and the physical evidence all challenge the mass hallucination hypothesis.

 Physics-Based Explanation: Atmospheric Phenomena

Theory: Another explanation posits that the Miracle of the Sun was caused by a natural atmospheric phenomenon, such as a sundog (parhelion), a mirage, or a rare optical effect involving clouds and solar refraction. Sundogs occur when ice crystals in the atmosphere refract sunlight, creating bright spots or halos around the sun, sometimes with colorful effects. Alternatively, some suggest a temperature inversion or atmospheric turbulence could have distorted the sun’s appearance, making it seem to move or change. The drying of clothes could be attributed to a sudden shift in weather, such as a break in the clouds allowing intense sunlight to evaporate moisture.

Refutation: While atmospheric phenomena like sundogs or mirages can create striking visual effects, they do not align with the specific details of the Miracle of the Sun. Sundogs typically appear as static bright spots or arcs at fixed angles from the sun, not as a spinning, zigzagging, or plummeting object. Witnesses consistently described dynamic motion—spinning, dancing, and an apparent descent toward the earth—none of which are characteristic of known optical phenomena. Additionally, sundogs and mirages require specific atmospheric conditions, such as high-altitude ice crystals or temperature gradients, which were not documented in the rainy, overcast conditions of October 13, 1917.

The widespread observation of the phenomenon across a large geographic area also poses a challenge. Atmospheric effects are typically localized, yet people far from Fátima reported similar observations, suggesting the event was not confined to a specific atmospheric condition at the Cova da Iria. Furthermore, the sudden drying of clothes and ground is difficult to reconcile with natural weather shifts. The rain had been continuous, and no meteorological records indicate a rapid change sufficient to dry soaked materials in minutes without residual moisture.

Finally, staring at the sun, as many witnesses did, can cause visual distortions due to retinal afterimages or eye strain. However, this cannot explain the consistent descriptions of specific movements and colors across thousands of observers, nor the fact that many reported no discomfort from looking at the sun, which they described as dimmed or softened during the event. These factors collectively suggest that the phenomenon exceeded the scope of known atmospheric effects.

 The Significance of the Miracle Today

The Miracle of the Sun remains a powerful symbol for Catholics, representing divine intervention and a call to faith in a skeptical world. On this 108th anniversary, pilgrims will gather in Fátima to pray the Rosary, attend Mass, and honor Our Lady’s messages. The event’s enduring impact lies in its ability to inspire devotion while challenging rationalist assumptions about the nature of reality. For believers, the miracle is a testament to God’s presence; for skeptics, it remains an enigma that resists easy explanation.

The psychological and physical theories, while offering plausible mechanisms, fall short when confronted with the scale, consistency, and physical effects reported. The diversity of witnesses, the geographic spread of observations, and the tangible drying of the ground suggest an event that transcends ordinary phenomena. Whether one views it as a miracle or an unexplained anomaly, the Miracle of the Sun continues to provoke reflection on the boundaries between faith and reason.

As we commemorate this anniversary, the messages of Our Lady of Fátima—prayer, repentance, and peace—resonate in a world still marked by conflict and division. The Miracle of the Sun invites us to consider the possibility of the transcendent, challenging us to look beyond the visible and ponder the mysteries that lie at the heart of existence.

Sources:

- Lúcia dos Santos, Fatima in Lucia’s Own Words (Postulation Centre, 1976)

- O Século, October 15, 1917, article by Avelino de Almeida

- John De Marchi, The True Story of Fatima (Catechetical Guild, 1952)

- Vatican Archives, “The Message of Fatima” (Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, 2000)

- Joe Nickell, Looking for a Miracle (Prometheus Books, 1998)

- Stanley L. Jaki, God and the Sun at Fatima (Real View Books, 1999)

 

September 11, 18 Years Later

Time flies... it has been 18 years since the horrific attack against the United States of America on September 11, 2001. On this day, cowardly hijackers took over commercial airliners and crashed them into the World Trade Center "Twin Towers," the Pentagon and in a field in Pennsylvania. The latter was due to brave passengers on flight 93 who fought back against the hijackers.


Many remember the day well. It was a clear sunny day. The weather was spring-like. When news of a plane crashed into the first tower, everyone was wondering how this could have happened. They never expected terrorism. Americans were off to start a new decade after enjoying a wondering economy in the '90s. No one really thought about terrorism. It was just about enjoying life, going to school and work and nothing else. There were no social media at the time other than AOL chat rooms, AOL instant messenger, ICQ, and online forums. Teens would go on Teen Chat Center or NewGrounds for their entertainment. There were no mp3 players, only CD and cassette walkmans. Cell phones were limited to bulky carry items that only made costly phone calls. Texting and the internet on phones were not even conceived yet. Apple INC was coming back from nearly being wiped out by Microsoft. Steve Jobs introduced his colorful IMac computers at the time. Playstation 2 was taking the market from Nintendo. Sega and other consoles disappeared from popularity. There as no wifi, no hotspots, no e-readers etc. It was a different time, and in a sense, a different world.

September 11th changed all of this. The site of the Twin Towers ablaze and eventually collapsing, the hit on the Pentagon and the inability of the president to govern would send a strong message to all: America was not ready. If with the cost of a mere plane ticket a person bent on doing evil can paralyze the world's most powerful and richest, then that speaks volumes. America experienced a new type of warfare. This was not like the Japanese attacking Pearl Harbor or anything else. The attack was within and without notice. Government agencies that deal with intelligence failed. All they knew was that operative for Al-Qaida were boarding flights. But, which ones and when? No one knew the answers. As Air Force One sat on a runway in Florida, reports came in that a plane was coming towards it that had its transponders off. Once cleared, Air Force One took off with speeds not typical of a plane its size. Meanwhile, in New York, there was chaos. Manhattan was shut down. People wandered the streets not knowing what was going on other than two planes hit the towers. At the towers, people jumped out windows preferring death on pavement than evaporating in the hot temperatures from the flames. Those present will never forget the sounds of their bodies hitting the pavement. A loud bang followed by a crunching sound. It was just horrendous. Soon thereafter, the towers collapsed, one after another after the passing of some time.

At 10:44 p.m. Sept. 10, 2001, WPIX showed a live shot of the Twin Towers. It was the last night bump shot we ever aired of the Twin Towers. How we miss that view. On Wednesday, we will mark the 18th anniversary of 9/11. pic.twitter.com/0glaZBHLyq

— PIX11 News (@PIX11News) September 11, 2019

The events of September 11th remind us how fragile a country and government can be. We take for granted the systems man puts into place and believe them to be impenetrable. However, nothing is secure in life. Nothing is foolproof. The effects of September 11th are still be felt today. We now have heavy security at airports and other places of travel. Our current president is trying hard to secure borders so that people like those who hijacked the planes on September 11th cannot enter easily. But more remains to be done.

Communications systems fell apart that day. Phone lines were either busy or mixed with other lines. One would get calls from other states and when one called another, a different phone number would appear on caller ID. Walkie Talkies used by firefighters and police officers were scrambled. They could not communicate with each other. There was chaos everywhere, not just in New York City. The president himself was lost on Airforce One. Communications onboard were not working as expected. His plane was flying around the United States with no sense of direction. This attack hit everyone, top to bottom.

We must not forget the memories of those who perished on this day and the days and years after. People are still dying from the effects of the ashes and other substances in the air. The remains of many of the fallen are still being identified even after so long. Today, firefighter Michael Haub was laid to rest after his remains were identified. To date, only 60% of the 2, 753 victims were identified.

Despite the evil and chaos of that day, we can focus on the good people and good things that came about. First, we remember Father Mychael Judge, OFM of the Franciscan Holy Name province. He was a homosexual priest who ministered to all peoples. As chaplain to the FDNY, he was first at the scene with firefighters at the World Trade Center. As he prayed for those hurt and deceased, some debris hit him killing him instantly despite having a hardhat on. Let us not forget Todd Beamer who was on flight 93 and famously said, "Let's roll" as he and others went after the hijackers. Let us not forget Moira Smith, the only NYPD female officer to perish on the date. Then we have Manal Ezzat, a Muslim woman who took to task to build a chapel at the site where the plane hit the Pentagon. This chapel is used by people of different faiths. St. John Paul II was the pope at the time. He was watching the events on the news and was as shocked as everyone else. He went to the chapel to pray and later on tried to contact president Bush who was unable to be reached. The pope shed tears for all Americans.

The documentary 102 Minutes that Changed America relives the events of that day. One feels like it is happening again just watching it. The look of panic on the people of New York who are often stoic tells it all. The documentary feels surreal as if it were a movie. The scenes of September 11 look like scenes from monster movies like Godzilla or Cloverfield. I believe the latter borrowed from September 11 for its visual effects. Those of us alive and conscience that day made a promise never to forget. We must keep that promise.

I hope the day is set as a federal holiday so that it will be engraved on the memories of all, young and old. It should be taught in schools and moments of silent should be mandatory everywhere. Churches should ring their bells and lead the way. September 11th must never be forgotten.  It was a time that literally brought America to her knees, not in surrender or defeat, but in prayer. Unfortunately, a lot has happened since which has brought about the distrust of religion in America. We must change this.  Prayer must be a major part of the family and society if we are to prevent terrorism. Only prayer changes things.  Many today, including some Democrats mock the idea of prayer.  When mass shootings occur, they say "action not thoughts and prayers."  How ignorant are they to believe this? America has done "action." She has had laws, but laws fail.  Only God works.  Only prayer to God works.  Atheists may also have an issue with this and may go as far as to blame Islam or religion in general for world conflicts.  Studies show that the major conflicts in human history are caused by political tensions, not religion.  While those who perpetrated the attacks on 911 were Muslim, this does not mean Islam is at war with America.  Every group has its fanatics who go to the extreme to push their ideas. 

As we remember today, let us continue our promise never to forget.  Let us do good on this day and every day in honor of the victims. 

 













Source:

https://www.jpost.com/Middle-East/Taliban-justifies-911-attacks-based-on-US-interventionist-policies-600967

https://pix11.com/2019/09/11/a-firefighter-killed-on-september-11-is-identified-18-years-later/

https://beta.washingtonpost.com/religion/2019/09/10/an-unsung-hero-attack-muslim-engineer-who-rebuilt-pentagon-crash-site-chapel/

https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/911-when-john-paul-ii-grieved-with-america-27065

https://pix11.com/2019/09/09/keeping-her-memory-alive-comic-honors-only-female-nypd-officer-killed-on-9-11/

https://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/2014/11/14/religions-war-cause-responsible-evidence_n_6156878.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAANXd0GqGC7BUXoZzPfmOK2ynGjaUROVLofMl2B-P75_sIN22L6DZ5-79zYEAVGvC74-T8bV49jzxRf8dixGSr4rotM5-AKEJ1flceQjbP03k3pA-agmXR_NQbnrPTz2KtN2kwJnCF0PLcy8T_pBox6agzBfQuljbEWCuFwnp9Tmz

http://visionofhumanity.org/#/page/news/1085

Pope Francis 2nd Anniversary

Time does sure fly does it not?  Pope Francis is celebrating his 2nd anniversary as the Bishop of Rome and Roman Pontiff.  He was elected to the chair of Peter after Pope Benedict XVI retired citing poor health and lack of energy.

Pope Francis has made a big impact on the world in just two years.  He has high ratings among Catholics and non-Catholics, and has been named the man of the year in several publications. His humble demeanor and no nonsense mentality has gained him a lot of popularity.  However, some in the so-called "traditionalist" circle are not too happy with him.  They see him as a "liberal" Pope who is disturbing their safety blanket of "rigid rules" and adherance to "archaic rituals." Some have even gone as far as claiming that he is an anti-pope.

Nevertheless, Pope Francis continues "wowing" the world with his down to earth approach and informal way of speaking.  He has focused his energies on making the Church the "Church of the Poor" by asking clergy to sell their mansions, use cheaper cars and cell phones and live austere lives.  Moreover, he even had showers installed for Rome's homeless, held a raffle for them, and opened a barber shop to cater to their needs.  The Pope has worked hard to restore the credibility lost after the many cases of sex abuse by clergy.  

For his anniversay, the Pope gave an interview to a Mexican media outlet.  In the interview, he stated that he misses being able to go outside to the pizzaria to get a slice without being recognized. He also dislikes the traveling and believes he will last 4-5 more years.

Congratulations to our Holy Father!  Ad multos annos!









Sources:
http://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/mar/13/pope-francis-mexico-devil-punishing-violence

http://www.breitbart.com/national-security/2015/03/13/pope-francis-the-devil-has-made-mexico-pay/

http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2015/03/13/vatican-watcher-pope-francis-the-world-sees-now-wasnt-always-comfortable-being-in-the-public-eye/

http://time.com/3744783/pope-francis-catholic-church-two-years/

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-31875507

http://www.cnn.com/2015/03/13/europe/pope-francis-interview/index.html

Pale Blue Dot -25th Anniversary

Today is the 25th anniversary of the photo Nasa's Voyager 1 took on February 14, 1990 at roughly 4.5 billion miles from Earth.  This photo is considered the first ever photo of the solar system.  In the photo, Jupiter, Venus, Neptune, Uranus, Saturn and Earth can be seen.

Naturally, the Earth is focused on more and inspired the late Carl Sagan to write in 1994 his book, "The Pale Blue Dot" where he reminds humanity of its place in the cosmos or the recycling of the "Copernican principle" which posits that Earth/Man is not the center of the cosmos.






Some atheists and those in the scientific community erroneously believe that religion makes man into the main focus of this universe. He is the "special creation," as they often describe the human being. However, the idea that man was created by God and given dominion over nature does not mean he is a "special creation" etc (Genesis 1:26). It means that human beings are unique because we have the life of God in us. It does not mean that we are better than this universe. Before Sagan made his "Pale Blue Dot" analogy, the Bible already mentioned that we are nothing but dust (Genesis 2:7, Psalms 103:14). The Bible has always reminded man his place in the cosmos (Psalms 8:3-4, Job 7:17).   

While we seem to be just a "Pale Blue Dot," we are much more than that.  To date, we have not found any other intelligent life elsewhere.  This is odd considering that we are all made of "star stuff," and the fact that our galaxy has the same materials to repeat the same creation of life as it took place on Earth.  This begs the question: why does Earth only have life?  So far, the Bible is winning on this question since it clearly places Earth as "God's Ant Farm" where He created life and sustains it.  Nevertheless, the "Pale Blue Dot" photo reminds us that while we were created by God, we are not God.  We must care for one another and our world because it is the only place we have called home.    




Source:

http://www.space.com/28564-voyager1-pale-blue-dot-photo-25-years.html