Khamenei Got FAFO'd: Why His Death Was Inevitable and Just

The Fall of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei: Why His Death Was Inevitable and Just

In our shared human experience, death is a somber event. We are taught, across faiths and philosophies, not to rejoice in the passing of another soul. Life is sacred, and even the most flawed individuals deserve a measure of compassion in their final moments. Yet, there are rare exceptions—figures whose existence perpetuated such profound evil that their removal from the world feels like a divine correction. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's Supreme Leader from 1989 until his death on February 28, 2026, in joint U.S.-Israeli airstrikes, was one such exception. He embodied pure evil, a modern antichrist whose tyrannical rule oppressed millions, mocked God, and sowed chaos globally. The world is undeniably better without him, and based on his heretical beliefs, unrepented mortal sins, and defiance of divine truth, he now faces eternal judgment in hell.

 A Brief Biography of a Ruthless Cleric

Ali Hosseini Khamenei was born on April 19, 1939, in Mashhad, Iran, into a modest religious family as the son of an Islamic scholar. Raised in poverty, he pursued clerical studies in Qom under Ruhollah Khomeini, the architect of Iran's 1979 Islamic Revolution. Khamenei actively opposed the Shah's regime, enduring imprisonment for his protests. After the revolution, he rose quickly: serving as deputy defense minister, briefly commanding the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), and becoming president from 1981 to 1989. In 1989, following Khomeini's death, Khamenei was elevated to Supreme Leader despite lacking traditional qualifications, consolidating absolute power over Iran's military, judiciary, and foreign policy. He ruled until his demise at age 86, killed amid escalating conflicts.

 The Evils He Inflicted: Oppression and Tyranny

Khamenei's reign was marked by unrelenting oppression of his people. Under his watch, Iran became a theocratic dictatorship where dissent was crushed with brutality. Human rights abuses flourished: arbitrary arrests, torture, enforced disappearances, and mass executions. In the 2022 "Woman, Life, Freedom" protests sparked by Mahsa Amini's death in custody for improper hijab, security forces killed hundreds, including children, and perpetrated sexual violence as crimes against humanity. By 2025-2026, amid economic protests, over 3,000 demonstrators were unlawfully slain, with forces targeting eyes and heads in systematic attacks.

He exported terror, funding proxies like Hezbollah and militias in Iraq and Syria, fueling regional conflicts and human rights violations abroad. Domestically, Khamenei enforced strict Islamic norms, mandating hijab and chastity laws that subjugated women, leading to a "reign of terror" with acid attack threats and gender persecution. His cult of personality persecuted critics, jailing journalists for "insulting" him and fostering a climate of fear. Economic mismanagement under sanctions left Iranians in poverty, while he prioritized repression over reform.

 Contradictions in Islam: A Faith Twisted by Hypocrisy

Critics have long highlighted contradictions in Islam that Khamenei's rule exemplified and exacerbated. The Quran claims no compulsion in religion (2:256), yet commands slaying polytheists (9:5), mirroring Khamenei's forced conversions and killings of dissenters. Creation narratives conflict: six days in some verses, eight in others, undermining claims of divine perfection. Ethical inconsistencies abound, like promoting peace while endorsing violence, or historical errors such as Samaritans in Moses' time (who didn't exist then). Scientific flaws, like geocentric views or flawed embryology, clash with modern knowledge. Khamenei weaponized these hypocrisies, preaching justice while oppressing, claiming divine authority while mocking God's true mercy through Christ.

 An Exception to Compassion: Pure Evil Incarnate

We hesitate to celebrate death, but Khamenei was no ordinary man—he was the antichrist among us, a false prophet whose heretical Shia beliefs distorted God's word, elevating imams over scripture in idolatry. His manifest sins—mass murder, idolatry, unrepentant pride—sealed his fate. He mocked God by claiming absolute rule, defying humility and love taught in true faith. Without repentance, he burns in hell, as justice demands for such evil.

The world breathes easier: Iran's proxies weaken, oppression eases, and hope flickers for freedom. Khamenei's end wasn't vengeance but necessity, removing a cancer from humanity.

 Sources

1. Britannica: https://www.britannica.com/biography/Ali-Khamenei

2. Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ali_Khamenei

3. NBC News: https://www.nbcnews.com/world/iran/ayatollah-ali-khamenei-religious-cleric-ruled-iran-decades-killed-stri-rcna241863

4. Amnesty International: https://www.amnesty.org/en/location/middle-east-and-north-africa/middle-east/iran/report-iran

5. OHCHR: https://www.ohchr.org/en/press-releases/2026/01/experts-urge-iran-break-cycle-violence-create-space-dialogue

6. HRW: https://www.hrw.org/world-report/2021/country-chapters/iran

7. ICJ: https://www.icj.org/iran-immediately-stop-mass-killings-of-protestors-and-other-atrocities-and-end-impunity

8. Berkeley Human Rights Center: https://humanrights.berkeley.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Jan-22-Gender-Persecution.pdf

9. Hudson Institute: https://www.hudson.org/corruption/seven-strategic-failures-will-end-khameneis-rule-zineb-ribuoa

10. Medium: https://medium.com/@jeffreybarlatier/10-quran-contradictions-and-errors-and-why-they-matter-3879a82c46bb

11. Skeptic: https://www.skeptic.com/article/scientific-inconsistencies-quran

12. WikiIslam: https://wikiislam.net/wiki/Contradictions_in_the_Quran

Padre Pio and His Battles with Demonic Forces: A Study in Spiritual Warfare

 

Padre Pio and His Battles with Demonic Forces: A Study in Spiritual Warfare

St. Pio of Pietrelcina, commonly known as Padre Pio, is one of the most revered and enigmatic figures in modern Catholic history. Born Francesco Forgione on May 25, 1887, in the small Italian village of Pietrelcina, he became a Capuchin friar, priest, and mystic whose life was marked by extraordinary spiritual gifts and profound trials. Celebrated for his stigmata, bilocation, and ability to read souls, Padre Pio is equally known for his relentless battles with demonic forces. These encounters, documented through his own writings, testimonies of witnesses, and accounts from contemporaries, offer a window into the reality of spiritual warfare and the power of faith to overcome it. This blog post explores the demonic attacks Padre Pio endured, their nature, context, and significance, drawing from historical records and theological insights to provide a comprehensive understanding of his spiritual struggles.

 The Early Life of Padre Pio: A Foundation of Faith

To understand the demonic attacks Padre Pio faced, it is essential to first consider the context of his life and spiritual development. Francesco Forgione was born into a devout Catholic family in a rural Italian community. From a young age, he exhibited an intense piety, consecrating himself to Jesus at the age of five and expressing a desire to become a Capuchin friar by ten. His family’s daily practice of attending Mass and praying the Rosary instilled in him a deep devotion to Christ and the Virgin Mary, which would later serve as his anchor during spiritual trials.

At fifteen, Francesco entered the Capuchin novitiate, taking the name Pio, meaning "Pius," in honor of his devotion to the Church. His early years as a friar were marked by frail health, which forced him to remain in Pietrelcina for extended periods. Despite physical ailments, his spiritual life flourished, characterized by celestial visions and mystical experiences. However, these divine encounters were accompanied by darker, more sinister visitations from demonic entities, which began in his youth and persisted throughout his life.

 The Nature of Demonic Attacks: A Multifaceted Assault

Padre Pio’s encounters with demonic forces were not mere temptations but intense, often physical, confrontations that tested his faith, chastity, and resolve. These attacks took various forms, ranging from terrifying apparitions to physical violence and psychological torment. According to Father Gabriele Amorth, a renowned Roman exorcist, Padre Pio’s "great and constant struggle" was against "the enemies of God and human souls, the devils who sought to capture his soul." These assaults were both external and internal, designed to instill fear, seduce, or deceive him into abandoning his mission.

 Physical Attacks

One of the most striking aspects of Padre Pio’s demonic encounters was their physical nature. Witnesses, including fellow friars, reported hearing unexplainable noises—thuds, wails, and crashes—emanating from his cell at the monastery in San Giovanni Rotondo. Padre Pio himself described being scourged with heavy chains, leaving him bruised and bleeding. In one chilling account from his early years at San Giovanni Rotondo, he recounted an assault by a demon in the guise of a huge dog: "I tried to invoke the name of Jesus but I could not speak. I could barely breathe as the specter pressed down upon me. I felt as though I was dying." Only by invoking Jesus’ name did the demon vanish, leaving Padre Pio shaken but resolute.

Another dramatic incident occurred late in his life, as recounted in the biography Padre Pio: The True Story by C. Bernard Ruffin. A demonically possessed woman entered the church at San Giovanni Rotondo, her face contorted and eyes glowing with an uncanny light. She screamed, "I’m the owner of this church!" and attempted to attack Padre Pio. Undaunted, he approached her calmly, commanding the demon to leave in the name of God. The woman later sat quietly, and after confession, her face was described as "like that of an angel." The next day, during an exorcism, the demon revealed through the woman that it had attacked Padre Pio the previous night, only to be thwarted by the intervention of the Virgin Mary, who placed a cushion under his head to prevent a fatal blow.

These physical attacks were not isolated incidents but part of a pattern. Padre Pio wrote to his spiritual director, Father Benedetto, about demons tearing up his letters, causing loud disturbances, and inflicting physical pain. The intensity of these assaults often left visible marks—bruises, scratches, and even a split forehead in one 1964 incident, which monks attributed to a demonic attack.

 Psychological and Deceptive Tactics

Beyond physical violence, the demonic forces employed psychological warfare to undermine Padre Pio’s faith. One of Satan’s most cunning tactics was to isolate him from his spiritual support, particularly his correspondence with Father Benedetto. By disrupting this connection, the devil sought to sow doubt and despair. Padre Pio described these entities as "hungry tigers," threatening to crush his spirit by convincing him he had been abandoned by God. In a letter to his spiritual director, he wrote, "They tried to make me believe that I had been rejected by God forever," a common diabolical tactic to erode faith.

The devil also used deception, appearing in forms designed to confuse or seduce. Padre Pio reported encounters with demons disguised as repulsive animals, such as an ugly black cat or a monstrous dog, intended to fill him with terror. More insidiously, demons appeared as provocative young women performing obscene dances to test his chastity. The most dangerous deception, however, was when the devil masqueraded as sacred figures—Jesus, the Virgin Mary, St. Francis, or Padre Pio’s superiors. These false apparitions posed a significant challenge, as they required discernment to distinguish from genuine divine visions.

Padre Pio developed a method to discern these deceptions, which he shared with his spiritual followers and which echoed the teachings of St. Teresa of Avila. He noted that true visions of the Virgin or Christ were accompanied by an initial timidity followed by peace, whereas demonic apparitions provoked immediate joy or attraction, followed by remorse and sadness. This discernment was crucial in navigating the spiritual battlefield where the devil sought to exploit his vulnerabilities.

 Demonic Attacks Through Others

Padre Pio’s ministry, particularly his work in the confessional, drew many souls to reconciliation with God, making him a prime target for demonic opposition. The devil often manifested through individuals who approached him, as seen in the case of the possessed woman at San Giovanni Rotondo. Another account involves a professional mathematician who confessed to Padre Pio but was vague about the frequency of a particular sin. Padre Pio, through his gift of reading souls, knew the man’s profession and sharply instructed him to return when he could provide an exact count, demonstrating his ability to confront spiritual challenges even in seemingly mundane interactions.

These encounters highlight the devil’s strategy of targeting Padre Pio through others, particularly those under demonic influence. The possessed woman’s attack and subsequent exorcism underscore the spiritual authority Padre Pio wielded, rooted in his trust in God and the sacraments. His ability to remain calm in the face of such threats was a testament to his deep faith and reliance on divine protection.

 The Context of Spiritual Warfare

Padre Pio’s demonic attacks must be understood within the broader context of spiritual warfare, a recurring theme in the lives of many saints. The Catholic Church teaches that the devil, as a fallen angel, seeks to thwart God’s plan by tempting and tormenting souls, particularly those who pose a threat to his influence. Saints like St. John Vianney, St. Teresa of Avila, and St. Anthony the Great also faced demonic assaults, often intensifying before significant spiritual victories, such as the conversion of sinners.

For Padre Pio, these attacks were permitted by God as a means of sanctification. According to a Reddit discussion, some theologians speculate that God allowed these trials to strengthen Padre Pio’s humility and virtues, counterbalancing the extraordinary mystical graces he received, such as the stigmata and bilocation. The concept of "Dolor," as described by exorcist Fr. Chad Ripperger, refers to the physical suffering saints endure from demonic attacks, a cross that purifies and fortifies their souls.

Padre Pio himself viewed suffering as a participation in Christ’s Passion. He wrote, "Suffering, when united with Christ’s one sacrifice of Calvary, could aid the salvation of souls." His acceptance of demonic torments as part of his mission to save souls enraged Satan, who sought to divert his focus inward through fear and self-absorption. Yet, Padre Pio’s steadfast commitment to prayer, the Eucharist, and the Rosary—his "weapon"—enabled him to persevere.

 The Role of Prayer and the Sacraments

Central to Padre Pio’s victory over demonic forces was his reliance on prayer and the sacraments. He famously described the Rosary as his "weapon" and prayed the fifteen-decade Rosary multiple times daily. He advocated frequent confession, calling it "the soul’s bath," and encouraged daily communion, spiritual reading, and examination of conscience. These practices fortified his soul against the devil’s assaults and provided spiritual protection for those under his care.

The Virgin Mary played a pivotal role in Padre Pio’s spiritual warfare. In the incident with the possessed woman, the demon revealed that the "White Lady" (the Virgin Mary) had intervened to save Padre Pio from a fatal attack. His devotion to Mary, expressed through the Rosary and constant prayer, was a source of strength and a reminder of her protective presence. Padre Pio’s maxim, "Pray, hope, and don’t worry," encapsulated his approach to spiritual warfare, emphasizing trust in God’s mercy and the power of prayer to overcome evil.

 The Significance of Padre Pio’s Battles

Padre Pio’s encounters with demonic forces were not merely personal trials but a testament to the reality of spiritual warfare and the triumph of faith. His experiences offer several lessons for believers:

1. Vigilance and Discernment: Padre Pio’s ability to discern demonic deceptions underscores the importance of spiritual alertness. He taught that the devil’s tactics often begin with calmness but end in turmoil, urging believers to remain vigilant through prayer and the sacraments.

2. The Power of the Cross: Padre Pio’s life was a proclamation of the cross’s power over Satan. His willingness to embrace suffering as a co-redemptive act aligned with Christ’s sacrifice, demonstrating that love and selflessness are the devil’s undoing.

3. Trust in Divine Protection: Despite the intensity of the attacks, Padre Pio never wavered in his trust in God and the Virgin Mary. His example encourages believers to cling to God’s covenant of love, even in moments of spiritual darkness.

4. The Role of Community: Padre Pio’s correspondence with his spiritual directors and the support of his fellow friars highlight the importance of spiritual community in combating isolation, a key tactic of the devil.

5. The Reality of Evil: In an era where the existence of the devil is often dismissed as mythology, Padre Pio’s experiences serve as a stark reminder of the reality of evil. As he wrote, "The devil does not sleep but seeks our ruin in a thousand ways."

 Padre Pio’s Legacy in Spiritual Warfare

Padre Pio’s battles with demonic forces were integral to his mission as a "demon-fighter," as described by Church Pop. His life was a paradox of divine glory and sacrificial suffering, reflecting the experiences of Christ on Mount Tabor and at Gethsemane. His stigmata, bilocation, and ability to read souls made him a beacon of hope, but it was his resilience against demonic attacks that solidified his role as a defender of faith.

His legacy continues to inspire millions, with his feast day on September 23 serving as a time of devotion and reflection. The hospital he founded, Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, and the countless pilgrims who visit San Giovanni Rotondo testify to his enduring impact. His teachings on prayer, suffering, and trust in God remain relevant, offering guidance for those facing their own spiritual battles.

 Conclusion

Padre Pio’s encounters with demonic forces were a defining aspect of his spiritual journey, illustrating the reality of evil and the power of faith to overcome it. From physical assaults to psychological deceptions, these attacks tested his resolve but ultimately strengthened his mission to save souls. Through prayer, the sacraments, and unwavering trust in God, Padre Pio emerged victorious, leaving a legacy that continues to guide and inspire. His life reminds us that spiritual warfare is not a relic of the past but a present reality, one that can be confronted with the same weapons he wielded: faith, prayer, and the cross.

 References

- Amorth, Gabriele. The Devil and Padre Pio. Catholic Culture.[](https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/library/view.cfm?recnum=1021)

- Ruffin, C. Bernard. Padre Pio: The True Story. Our Sunday Visitor.

- Allegri, Renzo. Padre Pio, a Saint Among Us.

- Beckman, Kathleen. Spiritual Warfare Lessons from St. Padre Pio.[](https://www.kathleenbeckman.com/spiritual-warfare-lessons-from-st-padre-pio)

- Padre Pio: 13 Facts About the Saint to Know and Share. Catholic News Agency.[](https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/259431/padre-pio-13-facts-about-the-saint-to-know-and-share)

- The Demon-Fighter: The Supernatural Life of Saint Padre Pio. Church Pop.[](https://www.churchpop.com/the-demon-fighter-the-supernatural-life-of-saint-padre-pio/amp/)

- Padre Pio’s Battle Against Demonic Attacks: A Lesson in Spiritual Warfare. Following Padre Pio.[](https://followingpadrepio.org/padre-pios-battle-against-demonic-attacks-a-lesson-in-spiritual-warfare/)

- Padre Pio. Wikipedia.[](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Padre_Pio)

- Why Did the Devil Torment Saint Pio?. Reddit.[](https://www.reddit.com/r/Catholicism/comments/15k8n69/why_did_the_devil_torment_saint_pio/)

- The Charisma of Combat Against Evil: Padre Pio’s Mission. Padre Pio da Pietrelcina.[](https://www.padrepiodapietrelcina.com/en/charisma-combat-evil-padre-pio/)

- Padre Pio on the Battle of Prayer. Catholic Exchange.[](https://catholicexchange.com/padre-pio-on-the-battle-of-prayer/)

- Padre Pio’s Remarkable Encounter with a Possessed Woman. Aleteia.[](https://aleteia.org/2024/09/21/padre-pios-remarkable-encounter-with-a-possessed-woman/)

- St. Padre Pio vs. the Devil: Lessons on Spiritual Warfare. Laudate Mariam.[](https://laudate-mariam.com/blogs/laudate-mariam-blog/st-padre-pio-vs-the-devil-lessons-on-spiritual-warfare)

- 6 Powerful Quotes from Padre Pio on Facing the Devil. Aleteia.[](https://aleteia.org/2023/07/06/6-powerful-quotes-from-padre-pio-on-facing-the-devil/)

- Pope Pays Tribute to Mystic Monk Said to Have Wrestled with the Devil. Reuters.[](https://www.reuters.com/article/world/pope-pays-tribute-to-mystic-monk-said-to-have-wrestled-with-the-devil-idUSKCN1GT0EP/)

 

3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time - Repent and Come Follow Me

Today's readings call us to repentance.

In the first reading from the book of Jonah, the word of the Lord God sends Jonah to Nineveh.  There, he is to go warn the people that God would destroy the city if they do not change their ways.  We are told that he took 3 days to do this and that in forty days if they did not heed the warning, Nineveh would be destroyed. 

In the Bible, numbers do not necessarily represent numerical value in the mathematical sense.  They are part of a symbolic system called the gematria. Each number represents something. The number 3 represents totality or completeness.  It is used over 400 times throughout the Sacred Scriptures.  The forty days means a long period or a period of preparation or transition. Nineveh was a city that had it all in regards to sin.  We read more details in Nahum 3.

In this city, thievery is rampant, sexual licentiousness, drunkenness, death, merciless killing, etc. Notice how God gives a warning before He acts.  He sends out Jonah to warn the people. Atheists often like to make claims that the "Old Testament God" is this evil deity who is sadistic and enjoys killing or having others kill in His name.  This is far from the truth and a poor understanding of literary genres in Sacred Scripture. If God was this "evil deity" that did not care, why would He send out Jonah to warn the residents of Nineveh?  Here we see that God is not only just, but merciful (Psalm 86:5, Psalm 145:9, Ephesians 2:4).  He prefers all be saved than destroyed just like any responsible father would not sit back and let his kids do whatever they want.  A father sets rules and enforces them justly.  This is love.  

Today, we are facing an alleged pandemic with the covid-19 coronavirus.  Some believe this is a punishment or chastisement from God.  I will not say either way, but it does seem weird how this virus appeared out of nowhere and seems to be altering itself to face our "defenses."  The virus is now becoming more contagious even to the point that more layers are needed in regards to masks. Some scientists are claiming that we should were at least two masks, one over another.  Vaccines were rushed into production and were given emergency approval, but are not approved by the FDA. These vaccines themselves are believed to prevent contracting the virus and/or limiting the symptoms. Even these claims are hypothetical since not enough time was given to study them. The whole thing just seems strange. It is like this virus is "intelligent" and knows what we are doing to combat it and is evolving to meet the challenge.  Is this the wrath of God or nature just trying to reduce the human population?  Is this a biological weapon or a simple mishap in a lap with bats infected with covid-19?  We cannot know for sure.  All I can say is that this virus has literally put humanity on its knees. Despite churches closing, faith still increased.  People seem to want God more than before.  Is God calling us via this alleged pandemic?  We must test the spirit of the times and see.  We must pray and ask God to enlighten us.  

The responsorial Psalm responds to the first reading with the statement: "Teach me your ways, O Lord." What does this mean?  Well once we repent of our sins and commit to change, then we must learn how to do so. Simply repenting is not going to show us how to continue on the path to holiness. Only God can teach us this since He is perfection (2 Samuel 22:31, Psalm 18:30, Matthew 5:48).  We must not become like those in this world blindly following the next fad or chic idea.  We must challenge them and focus on Christ and His will for us. 

In the second reading, we are reminded that time is running out. We are told by St. Paul to behave as such we are not living our daily lives on Earth. In other words, we must not focus too much on the things of this world, for they will pass. Our world will pass.  Science even agrees with this statement. However, this does not mean all life will disappear with it, nor are some going to go floating in the air in some "rapture."  Rather, God will return like a "thief in the night" and will judge us all (1 Thessalonians 5:2).  We will be judged based on how we loved God and others (Matthew 7:2).  This means we are to love God above things and our neighbor as ourselves (Luke 10:27).  We must not love God only on Sundays and Holy Days, but all the time.  This applies to our neighbors as well. We must not love them only during Mass, but all the time; yes, including those who get on our nerves (Matthew 5:44). We must teach our neighbors the truth and not water it down because it may offend their sensibilities (John 17:17).  It would be a sin against charity to lead others to believe that abortion is moral, that same-sex union is love and valid, that contraception is ethical, or that we should mind our own business and not admonish the sinner so as not to offend them. 

A new president was just inaugurated and while he calls himself Catholic, his views do not match our faith. He recently made statements showing his drive to keep abortion legal and propagated and made new orders forcing Americans to adopt the unscientific and sophism of gender theory.  We must pray for him. He is our president and does want to help Americans during this time of need; however, his views on other issues must be challenged and pushed back.  I am not endorsing any president as better or more moral than another, but we as Catholics must know where politicians are coming from and push back when they present views contrary to reason, morals, and faith.  Our Catholic faith is above politics and agendas from Democrats, Republicans, or any other party.  We must promote our faith first and vet our politics via our faith. Whatever does not agree must be cast out. 

Finally, in the Gospel, we learn of John's arrest. The last prophet is arrested and will be beheaded. 

Jesus continues after Him by preaching the Gospel of God. He reminds the people then and now that "The kingdom of God is at hand.  Repent, and believe in the Gospel."  Like in the first reading, He warns the people which is what John also did.

However, Jesus continues from that warning into the actual teaching of the Gospel in order to teach the people the way of the Lord as the responsorial Psalm states.  Then He proceeds to call the other disciples by name, Simon, Andrew, James, and John. He uses an interesting phrase, "Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men." Notice how Jesus is very observant. He sees that these men are fishermen.  Today, the Pope wears the "fisherman's ring" as a reminder that He must go out into the deep and fish-men. 

Furthermore, Jesus then uses that fact to connect the work of God with.  He also calls each by name which shows that He focuses on individuals.  We are not in some cosmic college class where God is a professor who does not know the names of His students.   He engages us directly on a first-name basis because He knows us ever since we were forming in our mother's womb (Jeremiah 1:5).  God does the same today. We do not have to be fishermen to do God's work. A doctor, nurse, lawyer, teacher, police officer, fireman, politician, scientist, librarian, school crossing guard, homemaker, businessman, etc; are all called to bring people into the Church using their own talents which will be guided by God's grace (Psalm 48:14). Never feel as if you cannot do God's work on Earth. 

St. Therese of Lisieux reminds us, "Miss no single opportunity of making some small sacrifice, here by a smiling look, thereby a kindly word; always doing the smallest right and doing it all for love." God in many cases does the opposite of what we expect an omnipotent being to do by choosing those who are weak, uneducated, or outcasts to shame the arrogant and those who see themselves as strong or powerful (1 Corinthians 1:27).  Let us listen to God's call to repent, ask him to teach us how to live, and go do what He asks of us with faith, love, and hope.  Today is Sunday of the Word of God as well. Let us take this time to meditate on Scripture, engage in lectio divina or some form of Scripture study so that we can be nourished by God's Word.   



Readings: Third Sunday in Ordinary Time | USCCB

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Harry Potter Books Banned by Priest

Just in time for the new school year, Harry Potter is in the news again, but not for literature related reasons.  A Catholic priest in Nashville, Tennessee has removed and banned books from a school library at St. Edward Catholic Church.  This is not the first time accusations against Harry Potter books have been presented by religious groups. Fr. Gabriel Amorth, one of the chief exorcists of Rome said in 2011 that Harry Potter can lead to evil.

Fr. Daniel ReeHill, pastor of St. Edward Catholic Church claims that the Harry Potter book series misrepresents the idea of magic.  Magic is presented as being both "Good and evil."  He claims that the spells or curses used in the book series are actual spells and curses used by Wiccans or those who are into the occult.

Harry Potter was written by J.K. Rowling and have sold over 500 million copies worldwide.  The book follows a young wizard named Harry Potter who attends the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

Reehill sent an email to staff at St. Edward Catholic school, he wrote:

"The Harry Potter series of books have been removed from the St. Edward school library for several reasons. These books present magic as both good and evil, which is not true, but in fact a clever deception. The curses and spells used in the books are actual curses and spells; which when read by a human being risk conjuring evil spirits into the presence of the person reading the text.
I have consulted several exorcists, both in the United States and in Rome, and they have recommended removing the books from circulation, the books also use nefarious means to attain the goals of the characters, including the 'good' characters. A morally good act requires the goodness of the object, of the end, and of the circumstances together. The Harry Potter books do not follow this premise; rather they promote a Machiavellian approach to achieving the ends they desire with whatever means are necessary.
The books also glorify acts of divination; of conjuring the dead, of casting spells among other acts that are an offense to the virtue of religion – to the love and respect we owe to God alone. Many reading these books could be persuaded to believe these acts are perfectly fine, even good or spiritually healthy. St. Edward is committed to advancing the Catholic faith and teaching the standards of sound doctrine to instill strong Catholic moral values. Books and other materials which present a possible threat to our faith will not be promoted by our church or school."

Father Reehill also cited the Catholic Church's catechism which states:

The Catechism, the teaching of the Church, states that, "All forms of divination are to be rejected: recourse to Satan or demons, conjuring up the dead or other practices falsely supposed to 'unveil' the future. Consulting horoscopes, astrology, palm reading, interpretation of omens and lots, the phenomena of clairvoyance, and recourse to mediums all conceal a desire for power over time, history, and, in the last analysis, other human beings, as well as a wish to conciliate hidden powers. They contradict the honor, respect, and loving fear that we owe to God alone." (CCC 2116)

What do you think about this story?  Post below on disqus. Be sure to follow the guidelines for posting a comment.  Here is my opinion.  As a bibliophile, I cringe at the thought of book banning or book burnings.  Books are sacred things. They help us learn and force our brains to think critically and internally.  I am a fast learner but have noticed that I learn better when I read things instead of listening to someone teaching me something. Reading has helped open my mind to many things, including God and religion.

I understand what Fr. Reehill is coming from, but I feel his concerns are reactionary and exaggerated. Harry Potter is simply a fictional work, nothing else.  In order to get possessed or have some demonic presence attach itself to someone, that someone must invite it in freely.  Reading a book does not do this.  While not mathematically accurate, I would say that 99% of the time, kids reading Harry Potter are not even aware of evil, spells etc in the same way adults are, especially religious ones.  By simply reading something with content that relates to spells and curses, one does not invite evil in.  If this were the case, then we all would invite evil every time we read the mentioning of Satan in Scripture.  The Catechism of the Catholic Church itself specifically states what we are to avoid.  Reading books is not mention.  What is mentioned is the consultation of horoscopes, astrology, palm reading etc.

Harry Potter, while silly and full of magical content is just innocent reading which engages the imagination. With the onset of the internet and cell phones, reading has gone down.  Harry Potter has helped alter this trend. Many kids are not hooked on reading. This is a good thing.  Think about it. Satan wants the downfall of human beings. How does helping kids read and learn help in his endeavor?  I assume keeping humans ignorant is the way to go if satan wants to make humanity fall more.

As for the spells in the books being real, I cannot truly say for sure that this is accurate. I am not sure where this claim comes from. If a priest says that the spells in Harry Potter are real, one must ask: How does he know?  This means he is reading actual spell books or is associating with witches.  I have yet to see evidence that shows the spells in Harry Potter are actual spells.  If they are, why has there not been a copyright infringement lawsuit filed by the creators or writers of these spells?

I think Harry Potter is harmless reading.  Parents should decide what they want their kids to read. As long as a child is actively religious, there is no need to fear spells and the like.  The latter does not work anyhow.  No power exists alongside that of God's.  A spell has no power. It is just empty words.  Only God has power.  Satan itself cannot act unless it is with permission from God!

The Church has to be careful with engaging in book censorship or burning again.  History shows that the Church has attempted to censor works of literature out of paranoia. This is not a good attitude to take in the 21st century. We do not want to repeat history. Censorship shows paranoia and insecurity.

I think atheist reading material is more dangerous than Harry Potter books. Atheist reading content makes you stupid. I have never seen a kid get possessed after reading Potter. But I have seen friends become cognitively lethargic after reading Dawkins, Krauss etc.




Source:

https://www.churchmilitant.com/news/article/priest-pulls-harry-potter-books-from-school-for-curses-and-spells

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/harry-potter-books-banned-nashville-catholic-school-bans-series-read-by-a-human-being-risk-conjuring-evil-spirits/

https://www.foxnews.com/us/harry-potter-banned-catholic-school-evil-spirits

https://www.forbes.com/sites/lisettevoytko/2019/09/03/catholic-school-bans-harry-potterbut-according-to-free-speech-advocates-its-nothing-new/

https://www.cnsnews.com/blog/michael-w-chapman/catholic-school-removes-harry-potter-books-says-curses-spells-are-real

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/harry-potter/8915691/Harry-Potter-and-yoga-are-evil-says-Catholic-Church-exorcist.html

6th Sunday in Ordinary Time: Follow the Law

Today's readings are on using our free will to follow God's law. The first reading reminds us that we have a choice. We can choose to keep the commandments or reject them.  God presents to us "fire and water," "life and death," "good and evil." He lets us choose which one we want.  Whatever our choice is, that is what we will receive. Atheists often ask, "If God is good, why is there evil?" God is definitely good (Psalm 136:1).  He is absolute and immutable (Numbers 23:19, 1 Samuel 15:29, Psalm 102:26-27). Evil is the absence of good. It "exists" to us because we choose it to exist via our actions, or lack of them. Evil in the world has no bearing on God's existence or attributes. Again, we choose. We choose to defend human life or let a culture or death take over our laws and culture.  We choose to defend the sanctity of marriage or let relativism take over and distort it. The evils in this world are on us, not God. We cannot blame Him. Pope St. Pius V said, “All the evil in the world is due to lukewarm Catholics.” Jesus Himself is not very fond of lukewarm Catholics. He "spits them out" (Revelation 3:15-17). God expects us to do the right thing. He does not order anyone to sin or act unjustly, we are told in the reading.  I find it odd when some people living in sin say it is "God's will." No, it is not! I have heard people say having an abortion is a just and moral act or that being actively gay is a "blessing." These are lies of Satan, the father of lies who uses sophism to deceive man (John 8:44). 

We must follow God's law, as the responsorial Psalm describes. If we do so, we will be blessed.  We will be blameless before others. Our free will must not be abused. We must do what ought to be done, not what we want to do. Human beings are fragile (Matthew 26:41). We need God to help us with discernment and how to follow His statutes. Wisdom from God is necessary. This wisdom is mature and not the immature wisdom of the world. God's wisdom is above the learned; above science, philosophy and all man's knowledge (1 Corinthians 1:25). It is mysterious and hidden, yet near and close to those who humbly ask for it. If we truly understood God's wisdom, we would rush to follow each Commandment.  The rulers during the time of Christ would not have crucified Him.  However, we see things through a veil (Hebrews 6:19). We rely on faith to help us see what is beyond the senses.  This Holy Spirit is our guide. The Spirit of God who is God and knows God completely. No eye or ear has perceived what God has prepared for those of us who follow Him sincerely.  

In the Gospel, Jesus repeats the importance of following God's law. He reminds the people that He did not come to abolish the law, but to fulfill it.  He does this because He is God directly communicating to man. God's law trumps man's law. Jesus reminds us of this by recalling the law Moses made regarding divorce. Moses allowed it, but God never ordained it.  This is why Jesus says that anyone even looks at another with lust has committed adultery. We must also be truthful and sincere. Our "yes" must be "yes" and our "no" must be "no." There is no in between. This is true when we decide to follow Jesus. We must say "yes" and mean it. We must not put Jesus on hold or second guess Him. Let us commit ourselves to the Lord by following His Commandments. Let us use our free will to do good and battle the evil in this world that derives from the spirtual forces behind the scenes who influence our choices.  May Jesus Christ be praised!  

Readings:  http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/021217.cfm

Please help this ministry by donating via PayPal or Www.gofundme.com/Sacerdotus.  Your gift will help me continue this work and expand it.

You can also help by purchasing my books. My latest book, "Introduction to the Catholic Church" will truly benefit Catholics and others curious of the Catholic faith. You can purchase it in paperback for $12 or Kindle Ebook for $9.99.
see: http://www.sacerdotus.com/2017/02/new-book-introduction-to-catholic.html













Here are some writings from holy writers: 

But the "one dot" [smallest letter] is not only the iota of the Greeks but also that which among the Hebrews is called the yod. And the "one iota" or "one dot" can symbolically be said to be Jesus, since the beginning of his name is written not only by Greeks with an iota but also by Hebrews with a yod. So Jesus will be the one dot, the Word of God in the law which does not pass from the law until all is accomplished.
But the iota might also be (as he himself says) the Ten Commandments of the law, for everything else passes away, but these do not pass away. But neither does Jesus pass away; if he "falls to the ground" he does so willingly, in order to bear much fruit. Again, the "one iota" or "one dot" has mastery over things both in heaven and on earth.
— Origen
(185 - 254)


Source: "Fragment 99," quoted in Manlio Simonetti, ed., Matthew 1–13, Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 2001), 97.

He did not say, "If you have anything against your brother" but "If your brother has anything against you," so that a greater need for reconciliation is imposed on you. As long as we are unable to make peace with our brother, I do not know whether we may offer our gifts to God.
— St. Jerome
(347 - 320)


Source: "Commentary on Matthew, 1.5.23," quoted in Manlio Simonetti, ed., Matthew 1–13, Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 2001), 104.

As the degree of innocence increases, faith becomes more advanced. For we are advised to be free not only from our own particular faults but also from those things that affect us outwardly. For is it not because of sin that the bodily members were condemned in the first place?
The right eye is no less sinister than the left. It is pointless to chastise a foot that is unaware of lust and thus involves no grounds for punishment. But our members indeed do differ from each other while we are all one body.
We are here being advised to pluck out inordinate loves or friendships if they are the occasion that leads us further into wrongdoing. We would do well to not even have the benefit of a member, like an eye or a foot, if it furnishes the avenue by which one is drawn by excessive affections into a partnership with hell. Even the cutting away of a member might be beneficial if the heart (figuratively speaking) were also able to be cut away. But if the impulse of the heart is left unchanged, the cutting away of a member would be pointless.

— St. Hilary of Poitiers
(315 - 367)


Source: "On Matthew 4.10," quoted in Manlio Simonetti, ed., Matthew 1–13, Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 2001), 92.

Exorcism Live - Do Not Watch It

Halloween is just around the corner and networks are starving for ratings especially since a popular World Series  between the Kansas City Royals and the New York Metropolitans is taking place and is taking away many viewers.  Destination America Network is not far behind. They are airing a live show tonight entitled "Exorcism: live!"  In this live show, participants will be visiting the location where the events surrounding the Exorcist movie took place.  In 1949, a young boy named Roland Doe (name used to protect identity) was allegedly possessed by the devil or demons. Jesuit priests were called in after a Protestant minister was unable to remove the entities. The real life event inspired the 1970's film.

Alleged psychic medium Chip Coffey will be the main participant who will conduct a seance and "exorcism" on the house located in Bel-Nor, Missouri.  Bishop Herman of the Archdiocese of St. Louis condemned the show and asked the producers to reconsider citing the dangers of calling on evil spirits and toying with them. However, Henry Schleiff of Discovery Communications ignored the concerns from the bishop.

The bishop is correct. This event will be calling upon demons and that is not a good idea.  While the show will be staged as these ghost shows usually are, they still are messing with entities that humans should not mess with. Moreover, lay people are not authorized to conduct exorcisms. Not even priests are allowed unless given permission by their bishop.  This Exorcism Live show is a mockery of the Catholic faith and will be channeling evil.

Moreover, this psychic medium Chip Coffey is a charlatan and an openly gay man who distorts Catholicism. Many have filed complaints against him for being fraudulent. He was also embarrassed on a live program when he was put to the test by skeptics. There is no such thing as a psychic or medium. Spirits do not "live" anywhere. All of this is superstition.  Also, Chip Coffey previously worked on a paranormal investigation show (Paranormal State) which was exposed as being staged. The show was eventually cancelled. See the sources below this post for more information on the fraudulent

I urge all Catholics and all my readers to not watch this program. You will be calling evil spirits into your home and endorsing fraud and the mockery of our faith.  

Do not watch the #ExorcismLive travesty on @DestAmerica conducted by @chipcoffey etc. You will be inviting evil. #catholic #Synod15 #trcot

— Sacerdotنs (@Sacerdotus) October 30, 2015

Source:

http://www.destinationamerica.com/tv-shows/exorcism-live-countdown/exorcism-live/

http://fox2now.com/2015/10/29/archdiocese-of-st-louis-warns-of-exorcism-dangers-before-tv-show/

http://ncronline.org/blogs/ncr-today/fright-or-foul-archdiocese-warns-against-purported-live-tv-exorcism

http://www.womenofgrace.com/blog/?p=44712

https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/style/a-live-exorcism-will-be-performed-on-tv-friday-heres-what-to-expect/2015/10/29/e49b8d3a-7dad-11e5-b575-d8dcfedb4ea1_story.html

http://www.catholic.org/news/ae/tv/story.php?id=65075

http://www.catholicherald.co.uk/news/2015/10/30/archdiocese-warns-against-playing-games-with-satan-ahead-of-live-tv-exorcism/

http://www.patheos.com/blogs/friendlyatheist/2013/10/14/morning-radio-host-interviews-psychic-and-puts-him-to-shame/

http://www.ripoffreport.com/r/chip-coffey/atlanta-georgia-/chip-coffey-psychic-kids-paranormal-state-cyber-bully-pathological-liar-sociopath-twi-918391

http://www.ghosttheory.com/2008/11/04/paranormal-state-caught-faking-entire-show

http://www.catholicherald.co.uk/news/2015/10/30/archdiocese-warns-against-playing-games-with-satan-ahead-of-live-tv-exorcism/

Fifth Planned Parenthood Video Released

A new video was just released showing Director of Research for Planned Parenthood, Melissa Farrell promoting Planned Parenthood's record for fetal tissue sales.  She prides herself as being able to deliver fully intact fetuses.














Source:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=egGUEvY7CEg

http://www.lifenews.com/2015/08/07/full-unedited-video-confirms-planned-parenthood-sells-baby-parts-to-create-humanized-mice/

http://www.lifenews.com/2015/08/04/5th-shocking-video-catches-planned-parenthood-official-selling-fully-intact-aborted-babies/

http://thehill.com/policy/healthcare/250179-fifth-planned-parenthood-video-turns-to-intact-fetuses

http://www.theblaze.com/stories/2015/08/04/fifth-undercover-planned-parenthood-video-released-and-it-purports-to-show-disturbing-comments-about-fully-intact-fetuses/

And Another Planned Parenthood Video...

Once again, another video exposing the evils of Planned Parenthood was released today by the Center for Medical Progress.  In this new video, Holly O'Donnell, a whistleblower tells of helping at StemExpress as a hired phlebotomist and "procurement technician."  Instead of dealing with drawing blood, she was asked to assist in dissecting an aborted fetus.  This caused her to faint. In the video, we also see Dr. Savita Grine, vice president and medical director of Planned Parenthood in Denver, Colorado discussing the payment option for fetal parts.  She says, "I think a per-item thing works a little better, just because we can see how much we can get out of it."

How much evidence do we need in order to push for the defunding of this evil organization?













Source:

http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2015/jul/28/w-scott-lamb-third-planned-parenthood-video-releas/

http://www.lifenews.com/2015/07/28/3rd-shock-shock-video-catches-planned-parenthood-vice-president-selling-body-parts-of-aborted-babies/

http://liveactionnews.org/new-undercover-video-shows-planned-parenthood-dissecting-aborted-baby/

http://www.mrctv.org/blog/new-damning-evidence-released-planned-parenthood-fetal-trafficking-scandal#.p6anhi:j15z

Yet Another Planned Parenthood Video

The evil organization "Planned Parenthood" has been exposed in a second video.  The first video of Dr. Nucatola shows here eating a salad nonchantly as she discusses how to avoid crushing a fetus' main organs.

She discusses the cost of trafficking these parts as being $30 to $100 "per specimen."  The video has prompted politicians into ordering an investigation of this evil institution. Now a new video has surfaced. This video has Mary Gatter who is the Medical director at Planned Parenthood in California.

In this video she discusses the selling of aborted fetal parts to academic institutions and other medical facilities so that they could conduct research.  She describes the prices for fetal livers, hearts and heads as negotiable. What is even more disturbing is that she explains how the parts are removed using a "less crunch technique," which pertains to the sounds of the fetus' body as it is torn apart and crushed.  She then discusses jestfully the desire of having a Lamborgini car.

Her psychotic blank face and apathy as she describes using a "less crunchy technique" on an unborn child are very telling. More videos (about 13) are set to be released by The Center for Medical Progress.












Source:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MjCs_gvImyw

http://www.lifenews.com/2015/07/21/second-shock-video-catches-another-top-planned-parenthood-doctor-selling-body-parts-of-aborted-babies/

http://www.cnn.com/videos/us/2015/07/21/planned-parenthood-sting-video-foreman-live-lead.cnn

http://www.foxnews.com/us/2015/07/21/new-planned-parenthood-video-shows-top-doc-haggling-over-price-fetal-body-parts/

http://www.nytimes.com/2015/07/22/opinion/the-campaign-of-deception-against-planned-parenthood.html?_r=0

Planned Parenthood Fetus Trafficking

Planned Parenthood has been trending since yesterday not for "women's rights," but for selling fetal body parts.  Yes, you read that right.  Planned Parenthood has been profiting from fetal body part trafficking by using partial birth abortion, which is legal, as means to obtain the parts. Dr. Deborah Nucatola, a senior director of medical services at Planned Parenthood since February of 2009 is showed on video admitting to this crime.  The video was recorded secretly and was part of a three-year investigation by the Center for Medical Progress.  In the video, Dr. Nucatola states while eating salad at a restaurant:

“We’ve been very good at getting heart, lung, liver, because we know that, ‘I’m not gonna crush that part, I’m gonna basically crush below, I’m gonna crush above, and I’m gonna see if I can get it all intact.” 

“I’d say a lot of people want liver. And for that reason, most providers will do this case under ultrasound guidance, so they’ll know where they’re putting their forceps. The kind of rate-limiting step of the procedure is calvarium. Calvarium — the head — is basically the biggest part.”

The news have been met with disgust among Pro-Life advocates, but has been mainly ignored by mainstream media. Dr. Nucatola has deleted her twitter account in light of this video.  While not really new, hopefully this revelation will wake nations up as to the evil behind this organization. Its funding needs to end immediately.










Here is the full video unedited:






Source:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jjxwVuozMnU

http://www.ewtnnews.com/catholic-news/US.php?id=12370#.VaVuDD-qaPI.twitter

http://www.churchmilitant.com/news/article/planned-parenthood-caught-selling-organs-obtained-during-abortions

http://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/undercover-video-shows-planned-parenthood-exec-discussing-organ-harvesting/2015/07/14/ae330e34-2a4d-11e5-bd33-395c05608059_story.html

http://www.lifenews.com/2015/07/14/planned-parenthood-doc-deletes-twitter-account-after-exposed-selling-aborted-baby-body-parts/

http://m.snopes.com/pp-baby-parts-sale/

Fox to Air New Show Glorifying "Lucifer"

First the legalization of so-called "gay marriage" around the globe, then Satanic black masses, then "Caitlyn Jenner" and Rachel Dolezal's transracial issue; now "Lucifer."  It seems the world has gone mad.

Did a gamma burst hit Earth and disrupt the space-time continuum creating a parallel universe where evil is good, good is evil, stupid is smart and smart is stupid?

There is a new series that is going to air on Fox based on a DC comic book called Vertigo.

The show will feature "Lucifer" as the main character.  "Lucifer" is a bored "lord" of the underworld who is portrayed as the "good guy" while God is portrayed as the an unjust absentee landlord. The show glorifies Lucifer giving him antropomorphic qualities.

Christians all over are protesting the release of this new show.  Many thousands have already signed petitions going around.

Satan's Time is Running Out
If it is not clear that we are near the end times, then I do not know what else would be convincing. The evil, confusion and travesty we are seeing in the world where the good is now seen as evil and bigotry while evil is seen as a good and progress is an indication that Satan's time is running out.  He is pulling all stops, figuratively speaking.

Revelation 13:5-8:
The beast was given a mouth uttering haughty and blasphemous words, and it was allowed to exercise authority for forty-two months.  It opened its mouth to utter blasphemies against God, blaspheming his name and his dwelling, that is, those who dwell in heaven. Also it was allowed to make war on the saints and to conquer them.It was given authority over every tribe and people and language and nation, and all the inhabitants of the earth will worship it, everyone whose name has not been written from the foundation of the world in the book of life of the Lamb that was slaughtered.

Sign petitions here:
http://onemillionmoms.com/current-campaigns/urge-fox-drop-plans-to-air-lucifer-sign-petition-now/

http://www.afa.net/action-alerts/fox-network-to-air-lucifer-portraying-satan-as-a-good-guy/

Write to:
Ms. Gail Berman, President
Fox Broadcasting Co.
P.O. Box 900
Beverly Hills, CA 90213
(310) 369-1000
askfox@foxinc.com


Satan may seem to be winning now, but remember how it ends.  Christ and the Catholic Church wins!

Revelation 19:11-21
The Rider on the White Horse
Then I saw heaven opened, and there was a white horse! Its rider is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he judges and makes war. His eyes are like a flame of fire, and on his head are many diadems; and he has a name inscribed that no one knows but himself. He is clothed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is called The Word of God. And the armies of heaven, wearing fine linen, white and pure, were following him on white horses. From his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations, and he will rulethem with a rod of iron; he will tread the wine press of the fury of the wrath of God the Almighty. On his robe and on his thigh he has a name inscribed, “King of kings and Lord of lords.”
The Beast and Its Armies Defeated
Then I saw an angel standing in the sun, and with a loud voice he called to all the birds that fly in midheaven, “Come, gather for the great supper of God, to eat the flesh of kings, the flesh of captains, the flesh of the mighty, the flesh of horses and their riders—flesh of all, both free and slave, both small and great.”  Then I saw the beast and the kings of the earth with their armies gathered to make war against the rider on the horse and against his army. And the beast was captured, and with it the false prophet who had performed in its presence the signs by which he deceived those who had received the mark of the beast and those who worshiped its image. These two were thrown alive into the lake of fire that burns with sulfur. 21 And the rest were killed by the sword of the rider on the horse, the sword that came from his mouth; and all the birds were gorged with their flesh. 

Revelation 20:7-10 
When the thousand years are ended, Satan will be released from his prison and will come out to deceive the nations at the four corners of the earth, Gog and Magog, in order to gather them for battle; they are as numerous as the sands of the sea. They marched up over the breadth of the earth and surrounded the camp of the saints and the beloved city. And fire came down from heaven[a] and consumed them.  And the devil who had deceived them was thrown into the lake of fire and sulfur, where the beast and the false prophet were, and they will be tormented day and night forever and ever.

I urge all Christians to sign the petition and write to Fox inc. to voice your concern and demand that this show be canceled before it even airs.





Source:

https://www.facebook.com/LuciferonFOX

http://www.afa.net/who-is-afa/press-releases/2015/06-june/american-family-association-alerts-supporters-to-contact-fox-regarding-blasphemous-lucifer-show/

http://www.newsmax.com/Newsmax-Tv/Gerald-Murray-priest-fox-TV-Lucifer/2015/06/09/id/649651/

http://www.ncregister.com/blog/matthew-archbold/fox-to-air-show-about-lucifer

http://www.christianpost.com/news/catholic-warrior-who-destroyed-satanic-display-in-florida-pleads-for-help-in-war-against-lucifer-138810/

http://www.christianpost.com/news/one-million-moms-says-new-fox-tv-series-lucifer-mocks-the-bible-starts-petition-urging-for-shows-cancellation-139742/

3rd Sunday of Ordinary Time - Repent and Follow Me

Today's readings call us to repentance.

In the first reading from the book of Jonah, the word of the Lord God sends Jonah to Nineveh.  There, he is to go warn the people that God would destroy the city if they do not change their ways.  We are told that he took 3 days to do this and that in forty days if they did not heed the warning, Nineveh would be destroyed.

In the Bible, numbers do not necessarily represent numerical value in the mathematical sense.  They are part of a symbolic system called the gematria. Each number represents something. The number 3 represents totality or completeness.  It is used over 400 times throughout the Sacred Scriptures.  The forty days means a long period or a period of preparation or transition. Nineveh was a city that had it all in regards to sin.  We read more details in Nahum 3.

In this city, thievery is rampant, sexual licentiousness, drunkenness, death, merciless killing etc etc. Notice how God gives a warning before He acts.  He sends out Jonah to warn the people. Atheists often like to make claims that the "Old Testament God" is this evil deity who is sadistic and enjoys killing or having others kill in His name.  This is far from the truth and a poor understanding of literary genres in Sacred Scripture. If God was this "evil deity" that did not care, why would He send out Jonah to warn the residents of Nineveh?  Here we see that God is not only just, but merciful (Psalm 86:5, Psalm 145:9, Ephesians 2:4).  He prefers all be saved than destroyed just like any responsible father would not sit back and let his kids do whatever they want.  A father sets rules and enforces them justly.  This is love.

The responsorial Psalm responds to the first reading with the statement: "Teach me your ways, O Lord."  What does this mean?  Well once we repent of our sins and commit to change, then we must learn how to do so. Simply repenting is not going to show us how to continue on the path to holiness. Only God can teach us this since He is perfection (2 Samuel 22:31, Psalm 18:30, Matthew 5:48).

In the second reading, we are reminded that time is running out. We are told by St. Paul to behave as such we are not living our daily lives on Earth. In other words, we must not focus too much on the things of this world, for they will pass. Our world will pass.  Science even agrees with this statement. However, this does not mean all life will disappear with it, nor are some going to go floating in the air in some "rapture."  Rather, God will return like a "thief in the night" and will judge us all (1 Thessalonians 5:2).  We will be judged based on how we loved God and others (Matthew 7:2).  This means we are to love God above things and our neighbor as ourselves (Luke 10:27).  We must not love God only on Sundays and Holy Days, but all the time.  This applies to our neighbors as well. We must not love them only during Mass, but all the time; yes, including those who get on our nerves (Matthew 5:44). We must teach our neighbors the truth and not water it down because it may offend their sensibilities (John 17:17).  It would be a sin against charity to lead others to believe that abortion is moral, that same sex unions is love and valid, that contraception is ethical, or that we should mind our own business and not admonish the sinner so as not to offend them.

Finally in the Gospel, we learn of John's arrest. The last prophet is arrested and will be beheaded.

Jesus continues after Him by preaching the Gospel of God.  He reminds the people then and now that "The kingdom of God is at hand.  Repent, and believe in the Gospel."  Like in the first reading, He warns the people which is what John also did.

However, Jesus continues from that warning into the actual teaching of the Gospel in order to teach the people the way of the Lord as the responsorial Psalm states.  Then He proceeds to call the other disciples by name, Simon, Andrew, James and John. He uses an interesting phrase, "Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men." Notice how Jesus is very observant. He sees that these men are fishermen.  Today, the Pope wears the "fisherman's ring" as a reminder that He must go out into the deep and fish men.

Furthermore, Jesus then uses that fact to connect the work of God with.  He also calls each by name which shows that He focuses on individuals.  We are not in some cosmic college class where God is a professor who does not know the names of His students.   He engages us directly on a first name bases because He knows us ever since we were forming in our mother's womb (Jeremiah 1:5).  God does the same today. We do not have to be fishermen to do God's work. A doctor, nurse, lawyer, teacher, police officer, fireman, politician, scientist, librarian, school crossing guard, home maker, businessman etc; are all called to bring people into the Church using their own talents which will be guided by God's grace (Psalm 48:14). Never feel as if you cannot do God's work on Earth.

St. Therese of Lisieux reminds us, "Miss no single opportunity of making some small sacrifice, here by a smiling look, there by a kindly word; always doing the smallest right and doing it all for love." God in many cases does the opposite of what we expect an omnipotent being to do by choosing those who are weak, uneducated or outcasts to shame the arrogant and those who see themselves as strong or powerful (1 Corinthians 1:27).  Let us listen to God's call to repent, ask him to teach us how to live and go do what He asks of us with faith, love and hope.  



Readings: http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/012515.cfm

Atheists Sweat God

I never get tired of stating that deep down atheists are attracted to God (see: Atheists Don't Exist). This is so obvious in their obsession with God. The concept and person of God is always on their mind; in their status updates and even in their conferences.  They even have "Atheist TV" which talks about... yes you have guess it: God!

Well a new study published in The International Journal for the Psychology of Religion entitled, "Atheists Become Emotionally Aroused When Daring God to Do Terrible Things," it was demonstrated that atheists take God as serious as theists.  The study took place in Finland which has a high rate of atheists. In the first study, psychologists took 29 subjects.  16 were atheists and 13 were theists. Each read 36 statements ranging from God, offensive speech and neutral speech.  The second study had 19 atheists and they were asked to say statements calling on God to bring harm on others, in some cases their own parents.  Skin-conductance tests using machines that measure perspiration were used.  When the studies were completed, it was found that both atheists and theists perspired heavily when calling upon God to bring harm to others. This seems to show that atheists believed they were in fact talking to a being capable of bringing harm which elevated their anxiety and stress levels.

If we think about it, why would atheists get nervous and sweat over a statement made calling on an imaginary being to do harm? Would you sweat or get nervous if you said, "may a fairy push my wife down the stairs?"  Most likely, we all would try hard not to crack a smile when saying this silly statement because we know fairies do not exist. The interesting thing here is that the atheists tested were not smiling.  They literally believed the statement they read despite believing God is nothing more than a myth or "sky fairy" as atheists usually describe God.  This is very interesting indeed and shows that God is not really a mythological concept for atheists.  Their perspiration and elevated stress leveled shows that they believed the statements would have had an effect in reality even though they believe God is not real.  Is atheism merely a mental block?    

Source:


http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/10508619.2013.771991

http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/10508619.2013.771991#.VFCMsiLF-gF

http://chronicle.com/blogs/percolator/do-atheists-really-believe-in-god/32301

http://www.strangenotions.com/do-atheists-believe-in-god-after-all/

http://epiphenom.fieldofscience.com/2013/11/atheists-get-sweaty-when-daring-god.html

http://www.scienceandreligiontoday.com/2013/12/04/atheists-get-sweaty-when-daring-god/

 

 

Journalist Beheaded

James Foley, a freelance journalist was beheaded by ISIS Islamists just about a day ago. Foley went missing in Syria for some years and appeared on video wearing what seems to be an orange jumpsuit. In the video, he blames America for the murders in the Middle Easts, trashes America, says that he wished he had more time to see his family and ultimately renounces America. An ISIS member in black with face covered is next to him and speaks on camera with a British accent. He basically trashed America as well voiced his anger against America airstrikes in Iraq.  Shortly afterwards, he then begins to saw off James Foley's head with a knife.  The decapitated body of James Foley is left laying with head on back. The orange suit/shirt seems to be an indirect message to America because that is what prisoners at Guantanamo wear and what prisoners during the Iraq war wore.

The video is just horrible to watch and shows how mentally disturbed and out of touch these ISIS people are. To be able to cut off another human's head like nothing says much about this individual.  He is a psychopath, feeling nothing. The parents of Foley have been grieving and have pleaded to ISIS to release other prisoners they have which they have promised would face the same fate as Foley.

President Obama spoke on the issue and said that no religion or God justifies this kind of violence against human beings and said that movements like ISIS will fail. Obama fell victim to criticism for returning to play golf after giving the statement. Meanwhile on Twitter, accounts posting the beheading of James Foley have face suspension.  This act on the part of Twitter is odd because they are usually lax about what people post. The NY Post even faced criticism after posting a graphic photo on its cover page.

This whole news is tragic and shows the danger of being in a region where ISIS has control. My prayers and condolences go out to the Foley family. Hopefully this video will wake up other nations to the dangers of ISIS and will bring about a united global response to this evil which is more organized and more well funded than Al Qaida.





Source:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/08/20/new-york-post-james-foley-front-page_n_5694299.html

https://au.news.yahoo.com/world/a/24769410/new-york-post-front-page-photo-of-james-foley-sparks-outrage/

http://abcnews.go.com/US/james-foleys-parents-recall-sons-big-heart/story?id=25053972

http://bostonherald.com/news_opinion/local_coverage/2014/08/james_foley_s_family_begs_ruthless_captors_to_spare_other

http://www.usnews.com/news/newsgram/articles/2014/08/20/us-officials-confirm-islamic-state-video-of-journalist-james-foleys-beheading

http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/headlines/2014/08/james-foley-punished-for-suspected-escape-plans-fellow-hostage-says/

http://www.newyorker.com/news/news-desk/men-killed-james-foley

http://www.nbcnews.com/storyline/james-foley/watching-purported-james-foley-video-may-trigger-charges-u-k-n184931

http://boston.cbslocal.com/2014/08/20/obama-reaches-out-to-parents-of-slain-journalist-james-foley/