By Fr. Justin Fulton
Back when I was an undergraduate student at UNL, I learned the greatest asset we have as humans is time. Not money. Not land. Not cars. But time. If we think about it, time is the one asset we are always losing and at the exact same moment we need more of. Time is our greatest asset.
The passing of time was just demarcated by yet another year. Here we are in 2021. How will we use our time to become closer to Jesus? Where is He calling us with the time He has blessed us with?
By Bob Sullivan
In my last article, Part 1, I tried to explain in layman’s terms that anyone who finds salvation does so through Christ and his Church and that this is true even for those who, through no fault of their own, have not arrived at an explicit knowledge of God or the Gospel.
“Over in a Stable”
by Suzanne Nelson. Illustrated by Alexander Zolotic.
Zonderkidz Press, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 2020, 32 pages, K-2.
By Fr. Justin Fulton
Peace to you.
On behalf of the employees, staff, volunteers, benefactors and Board of Directors of Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska, I want to wish each and every one of you a blessed, safe, and Merry Christmas!
“A Single Shard” by Linda Sue Park.
Clarion Books, New York, 2001, 180 pages, Grades 5-7.
By Tom Venzor
In less than a month, the 107th Nebraska Legislature will fulfill its constitutional obligation to convene on the first Wednesday after the first Monday in January. For those doing the math at home, that’s January 6, 2021.
On Day 1 of the 90-day First Session of the 107th Nebraska Legislature, newly elected and re-elected senators will be sworn into office, promising to uphold the Nebraska and United States Constitutions. Those legislators—along with their already sworn-in colleagues—will go on to elect critical leadership positions, such as the Speaker of the Legislature.
These opening and solemn moments will set the tone for the next two years of legislative activity.
By Fr. Justin Fulton
Where would we be without women and motherhood? Where would we be?
I don’t know about you, but around this time of year I sure could take a nap. Especially during this year of pandemic. This time of year is filled with stress. Bills. Planning. Online shopping. Due dates. Finals. Tests. We are stressed. We are stretched. We are tired. Many feel like crying. We could all use a nap.
By Bob Sullivan
For centuries, the Church has taught that there is no salvation outside the Church. To non-Catholic Christians, this is a tough teaching to hear and many lash out at the Church because of it. To such a Christian, they find it hard to believe that they could end up in Hell, because they know that they love Jesus Christ and try to follow Christ’s teachings to the best of their ability.
By Tom Venzor
Unlike Captain Renault in “Casablanca,” this column’s readers are not shocked by the following statement: Nebraska is one of but three states in the nation with no school choice for our families and children. This comes as no shock because it’s not news to us, even if it remains a tragedy.
“Fry Bread: A Native American Family Story”
By Kevin Noble Maillard, Illustrated by Juana Martinez-Neal
Roaring Brook Press, New York, 2019, 48 pages, K-3.
By Fr. Justin Fulton
It seems like after every Sunday Mass growing up, Mom always wanted to take a family picture. I fondly remember the vitriol spewed by the Fulton kids and Dad when we would get back home after a Sunday Mass at St. Joseph’s and a trip to the local Hinky Dinky for a rotisserie chicken Sunday dinner.
By Tom Venzor
Election results in Nebraska have been certified, and other states across the country are doing likewise. And, now, we have just finished up Thanksgiving and move ahead full sail into the Advent season. Then, of course, the celebrations of the Christmas season and the New Year’s (the end of 2020 can’t come soon enough, amirite?). With all these activities, many things can easily be lost in the shuffle. Among those things is the beginning of the United States Supreme Court’s term.
By Fr. Justin Fulton
Here is a picture of my niece Cecilia with my baby niece Juliana. It warms my heart. I pray it warms yours, too.
I love how you can see the pride and responsibility in Cecilia’s eyes. She’s a big sister now. She knows it is her role to be a mentor for her little sister. She knows it is her responsibility to care for and protect her little sister. Cecilia is up to the challenge and Juliana is prepared to receive the love and care Cecilia will give her.
By Bob Sullivan
In my last column, I provided some perspective to the Catholic teaching on baptism, compared to the non-Catholic belief that baptism is nothing more than an empty ritual or a public declaration that a person has been “saved.”
Another common misunderstanding between non-Catholic Christians and Catholics is the effect that works have on our salvation. In other words, we are saved by our baptism, but do we earn eternal salvation, or do we “keep” our salvation by performing good works throughout our life? This is what many non-Catholics think the Catholic Church teaches. They therefore sometimes claim that Catholicism is a works-based faith.
“Thanksgiving: The True Story” by Penny Colman.
Christy Ottaviano Books, New York, 2008, 149 pages, Grades 5-8.
By Fr. Justin Fulton
Peace be with you.
On behalf of the employees, staff, volunteers, benefactors and Board of Directors of Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska, I want to wish each and every one of you a blessed, safe, and happy Thanksgiving!
“Jungle of Bones” by Ben Mikaelsen.
Scholastic Press, New York, 2014, 211 pages, Grades 6-8.
By Tom Venzor
‘Vocation’ is a household term for just about every Catholic. In those early years of our life, we regularly hear the refrain to “pray for our vocation” and to listen to God’s call for our life. We are invited to consider a vocation to the priesthood, religious life, or marriage.
We are also regularly admonished to “pray for vocations” and lift up in prayer those undertaking the effort to follow God’s call in their life.
By Fr. Justin Fulton
In God’s Infinite wisdom, He did not will that I would get married or have children or grandchildren. I’ll admit sometimes that stings. Perhaps it is a desire to be proud that you are married to a beloved, loving spouse. Perhaps it is a desire to be proud of your son when you see him rip a double just inside the first-base line on a summer afternoon. Perhaps it is a desire to be proud of your daughter as you walk her down the aisle on her day of Holy Matrimony. Whatever it is He did not allow me those senses of pride.
That is okay.
By Bob Sullivan
There are a lot of different beliefs out there regarding baptism, especially the baptism of infants. Numerous non-Catholic faiths teach that baptism is merely a symbol or a ceremony. Some believe that no infant should be baptized under any circumstances and others are okay with baptism, as long as everyone agrees that it is simply received as a sign that a person has been saved and is entering into the congregation as a “believer.”
The Catholic teaching on baptism has not changed for 20 centuries. We baptize our infants, we also baptize adults who enter the Church, as long as they have not already received a valid baptism in another Christian faith beforehand. We believe that baptism is necessary for salvation because, among other things, it places an indelible mark on our soul as a member of God’s family, it cleanses us from original sin and actual sin, it confers sanctifying grace (which is a share of God’s own life), it confers actual grace (which is God’s way of helping us overcome temptation to sin), it makes us a temple of the Holy Spirit, it bestows virtue in us, and it makes us eligible to enter Heaven (CCC 1213-1284).
“The Unwanted: Stories of Syrian Refugees,” by Don Brown
Houghton Mifflin, New York, 2018, 112 pages, grades 7 and higher.
By Tom Venzor
It would seem attractive about now to find some random topic to talk about: maybe the weather, perhaps this year’s harvest, how about Husker football, possibly the Dow Jones, or, even better... let’s chat about whether my wife was justified in listening to Christmas music and watching Hallmark Christmas movies before our children even had the chance to say “Trick or Treat.”
But to talk about these topics would be to skirt around the place where we find ourselves. If I learned anything from my former spiritual director, Father Will Prospero (may he rest in eternal peace), it is to stick to the facts of your life.
By Fr. Justin Fulton
The Nebraska vs. Wisconsin football came was cancelled last week. Much to the consternation of Husker Nation, another Saturday in Nebraska passed without the Big Red dominating the state’s soul and landscape.
“Field Trip to the Moon,”
by John Hare.
Holiday House, New York, 2019, 40 pages, K-2.
By Tom Venzor
As I’ve previously mentioned on several occasions, I sometimes have to write my column before a major event that I would like to write about, but have no ability to predict. This week I am writing just prior to Election Day. While it’d be nice to have the power of flawless prediction, I’m going to stick to something I am much more familiar with
By Fr. Justin Fulton
Our sisters at St. Gianna Women’s Homes are remarkable. I share with you a letter written from Sisters Karen, Bernadette, and Carol to the women of St. Gianna’s:
Part VI (the finale) of my discussion of Catholic participation in public life, with Deacon Omar Gutiérrez.
“Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm,”
by Kate Douglas Wiggin.
Houghton Mifflin, Boston, 182 pages, 1903, Grades 5-7.
By Tom Venzor
The United States will experience political history on Tuesday, a culminating point for countless political campaigns across the country. The moment will be another mark on the American soul, a test of our republic and its fundamental direction toward—or perhaps away from—the common good that God desires for each and every society.
By Fr. Justin Fulton
Politics is downstream from the culture.
By Bob Sullivan
Part V of my discussion with Deacon Omar F. A. Gutiérrez, in which we continue speaking about Catholic participation in public life.
“I Survived The California Wildfires, 2018”
by Lauren Tarshis
Scholastic Press, New York, 2020, 139 pages, Grades 4-5.
By Tom Venzor
In a matter of days, the United States of America will experience history. Our nation’s presidency will again be determined for four years. Seats in the Senate and House of Representatives will be set. And state and local governments across our great nation will be filled with office holders, old and new. Whether we are prepared for this moment, whether we desire it, whether we’ve participated in its activities, it is upon us. Though many have already participated in early voting and mail-in voting, there are a few things to say to those who are yet to vote or who are still considering whether to vote.
By Fr. Justin Fulton
I’ve been to Pittsburgh, Parkersburg,
Gravelbourg, Colorado
Ellensburg, Rexburg,
Vicksburg, El Dorado
Larimore, Admore,
Haverstraw, Chatanika
Chaska, Nebraska, Alaska, Opelaka
Baraboo, Waterloo,
Kalamazoo, Kansas City
Sioux City, Cedar City,
Dodge City, what a pity
I’ve been everywhere, man
I’ve been everywhere, man
Crossed the desert’s bare, man
I’ve breathed the mountain air, man
Of travel I’ve a’had my share, man
I’ve been everywhere
-From “I’ve Been Everywhere”
Lyrics by Geoff Mack; as performed by Hank Snow, Johnny Cash, and many others
By Bob Sullivan
Part III of my discussion with Deacon Omar F. A. Gutiérrez, in which we continue speaking about Catholic participation in public life:
Editor's note: See part one here; part two here; part three here.
In Layman’s Terms: Let’s say a Catholic politician with average intelligence is provided with sound Catholic theology, reliable scientific evidence, and sound reason, yet he or she continues to promote something like abortion. This hypothetical Catholic promotes abortion as a good, supports taxpayer funding for abortion, and works to increase access to abortion, while claiming to be a faithful Catholic. Would it be fair to say that this Catholic politician is acting with intentional contradiction to Church teaching, therefore demonstrating a rejection of the faith?
“When My Brother Gets Home”
By Tom Lichtenheld
Houghton Mifflin, Boston, 2020, 40 pages, K-2.
“Titanicat” by Marty Crisp, illustrated by Robert Papp.
Sleeping Bear Press, Chelsea, Michigan, 2008, 40 pages, Grades 1-3.
By Tom Venzor
During election cycles, voters are regularly confronted by ballot initiative questions which raise serious moral questions. Sometimes the issues are cut and dry as with intrinsic evils like abortion, redefining marriage, racism, and treating the poor with neglect and abandon. Other times the issues are not so clear cut and require us to more thoroughly engage our intellect and analyze the morality and social costs/benefits of particular ballot initiative.
This election cycle, Catholics are facing the latter situation with three upcoming ballot items (Initiatives 429, 430, and 431) which would allow unlimited expanded gambling at any currently or future operated licensed racetrack in Nebraska. The purpose of this column is to analyze these initiatives based on Catholic social teaching.
By Fr. Justin Fulton
As I type in my office it is currently 7:23 a.m. on a Monday morning. Billy Idol’s version of “Mony Mony” is playing on the computer radio. Hundreds of cars go eastbound and westbound on O Street in Lincoln, heading to a workday or getting off a night shift. Hot black coffee perfumes my office. It is quiet. The prayers have been said for our employees, volunteers, benefactors, and clients. The day seems like an ordinary Monday. The routine and ritual of a Monday morning is regular.
By Bob Sullivan
Part III of my discussion with Deacon Omar F. A. Gutiérrez, in which we continue speaking about Catholic participation in public life:
By Tom Venzor
Before you know it, Nov. 3 will come and be gone. But as we are yet to approach the date, many of us are sitting, contemplating: How should I vote in this particular race or in that particular race? Another question many of us are also asking: What should I do about the ballot initiatives?
By Fr. Justin Fulton
“Soon, if you look at the leaves they will teach us how beautiful it can be to let go and allow yourself to change.”
By Bob Sullivan
Part II of my discussion with Deacon Omar F. A. Gutiérrez:
Editor's note: See part one here.
In Layman’s Terms: Now that we have addressed that, what does the Church teach about our responsibility to participate in and have an impact on society as a whole?
“The U.S. Supreme Court,” by Dan Elish.
Children’s Press, New York, 2007, 48 pages, Grades 3-5.
By Tom Venzor
As the country inches nearer to Election Day (Nov. 3), the country’s eyes are now affixed—at least for the moment—on the United States Supreme Court.
By Fr. Justin Fulton
About five hours ago, my Dad passed away having an egg sandwich (which he made us so many times while growing up) and watching the Andy Griffith Show—which he taught us to love so much as well.
He was there with Mom in their living room. He was wearing a St. Robert Bellarmine medal and Our Lady’s Scapular. And he passed on the feast of St. Padre Pio who said to “Pray. Hope. And don’t worry.”
By Bob Sullivan
I decided to reach out to Deacon Omar Gutiérrez (bio below) for a series on Catholic participation in public life because of his knowledge of Catholic social doctrine, and because I have found his insight very helpful in understanding the Catholic approach to various aspects of living in the post-Christian American society.
Until recently, people always read paper books in homes, offices, parks and libraries. Children grew up holding onto their favorite books and developed a love for reading through the text and tactile feel of paper books. Many of our fondest memories come from these moments.
But life is a continuum and the world of reading and books is changing. In the last 15 years, the e-book publishing explosion has begun. E-books are simply traditional paper books published in an electronic form. Unlike paper books, e-books require an electronic device to read them.
By Tom Venzor
As we near Election Day (Nov. 3), “conscience” will become a more prevalent theme and it will be absolutely critical that we understand what it means to “follow our conscience.”
By Fr. Justin Fulton
Every once in a while I meet up with a mentor and good friend of mine Dr. Kathy Farrell, dean of the University of Nebraska’s College of Business. Dr. Farrell was my last professor during my undergrad years.
I remember giving her my last final in December of 2003. I turned in my test for Finance 461, smiled, shook her hand and said, “Well, Dr. Farrell. That is it for me and college learning.”
She responded something to the effect of “Well, Justin, we will see about that....” Dr. Farrell was right. Somehow after getting that UNL degree I went on and got a few more and out of all of that I became a priest... proof that God exists, I reckon.
By Tom Venzor
The sprint to Election Day is upon us.
In less than seven weeks, Election Day (Nov. 3) will, once again, determine the political fates of numerous candidates and issues, at least until the next election.
Since 1789, the United States has held 58 presidential elections. Each and every one of these elections has been important and critical in its own right. Our nation has constantly faced existential questions and threats that have been the focus of candidates seeking to fill the Oval Office: who will we be, as a nation, and how will we survive? One only need to think of civil war, world wars, economic depressions and recessions, to grasp the gravity of these existential questions and threats.
Today, our country faces a pandemic that seems endless, civil unrest, attacks on human life especially those of the preborn, assaults on religious liberty, a broken immigration system, threats to the environment, injustices in our criminal justice system, and so on and so forth.
“Island: A Story of the Galapagos,” by Jason Chin.
Roaring Brook Press, New York, 2012, 40 pages, Grades 3-4.
By Fr. Justin Fulton
This picture of Sister Karen at the St. Gianna Women’s Home tells it all about the Catholic life... live with contagious joy, the joy of knowing Jesus and His love for all of us!
“For Freedom: The Story of a French Spy” by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley
Delacorte Press, New York, 2003, 181 pages, Grades 6-8.
By Tom Venzor
Help Wanted. Before I tackle this week’s column, I want to remind everybody that the Nebraska Catholic Conference is taking applications for our new Statewide Pro-Life Activities Coordinator. This position will oversee public education, prayer and worship, and pastoral care efforts across the state of Nebraska. This position will also supplement the great work already being done by Marion Miner on pro-life and family public policy efforts. This addition to our NCC team is a major step forward for the pro-life movement, as it will give us more human resources to ensure that a variety of pro-life efforts are getting attention throughout the year.
By Fr. Justin Fulton
It’s been 19 years since September 11, 2001. Some of you reading this may not have been born. For those of you who were old enough to remember the events of that horrific day, you know exactly what you were doing.
“Battle Bunny: It’s Doomsday,” by Jon Scieszka and Mac Barnett, illustrated by Matthew Myers.
Simon & Shuster Books for Young Readers, New York, 2013, 32 pages, Grades 3-4.
By Tom Venzor
It was 30 years ago this coming December that the Nebraska Catholic Conference hired the likes of an energetic, intelligent, and handsome young man to run the Bishops’ Pastoral Plan for Pro-Life Activities. Without saying much more, most of my readers can already guess who I’m talking about.
By Fr. Justin Fulton
I remember a summer day in June 2016. I had just completed my first year of priesthood, being stationed at Cathedral of the Risen Christ in Lincoln and teaching juniors at Lincoln Pius X. After a long year of teaching while still being an assistant priest at a large parish I enjoyed having a little bit of down time. I decided one day to take a walk around the church block on Sheridan Boulevard and I decided to walk through Cathedral Elementary School.
Editor’s Note: Bishop Emeritus Fabian Bruskewitz wrote a series of columns on the history of anarchy in 2004. The final piece, “The Black Flag – III” was published Oct. 22, 2004.
Virulent
The ideology of anarchism, of course, is erroneous, mainly because of its atheism along with its denial of original sin and of that sin’s lasting effects in all human beings, but also because of its illogical view that all laws and institutions which serve the common good are obstacles rather than necessary conditions for the full development of human liberty and the realization of social justice.
“Bink & Gollie” by Kate DiCamillo and Alison McGhee, illustrated by Tony Fucile.
Candlewick Press, Somerville, Mass., 2010, 81 pages, Grades 2-4.
By Tom Venzor
On the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Aug. 15), and surrounded by hundreds of pro-life friends and advocates, Governor Pete Ricketts enthusiastically signed into law LB814 which outlaws the dismemberment abortion procedure. This moment marked another major victory for the pro-life movement in Nebraska. Nebraskans have furthered a deeper understanding in our laws and throughout the culture more broadly that both the life of the unborn child and their mother are to be protected and cherished. As the pro-life adage goes: “Love them both.”
While the legislation is now sealed into law, the path to victory was always anything but certain. From the outset, we had an uphill climb to reach the 33 votes needed to overcome a filibuster led by pro-choice zealots whose opposition was sinister.
By Fr. Justin Fulton
It is amazing how Christ puts people in our lives when we most need it.
Editor’s Note: Bishop Emeritus Fabian Bruskewitz wrote a series of columns on the history of anarchy in 2004. This is “The Black Flag – II” which was published Oct. 8, 2004.
Historic Anarchism
The ideology of anarchism, which often rests dormant and latent for periods of time here and there in some intellectual circles, but then emerges violent and perplexing, has a long history. In the Middle Ages, for instance, there arose a group of anarchists who called themselves “Brothers and Sisters of the Free Spirit.” They claimed to be following various selected biblical texts as they rejected all human authority in every sphere of life. They also advocated and practiced what they called “communal ownership of all goods, including women.” During the Hussite time in Czech history, an anarchical activist named Petr Chelcicky taught that all laws of Church and state originate from Lucifer in hell, and therefore laws must be disobeyed, and the state and all class distinctions must be destroyed since they are totally evil.
In the 16th century, in the midst of the great disorder in Europe caused by the Protestant revolt, some Protestants who called themselves “Anabaptists” (“Rebaptizers”) moved into the practice, for the most part, of civil and ecclesiastical anarchy, stimulated by the antinomian writings and speeches of Martin Luther, based on his misunderstanding of and misinterpreting parts of the Bible, particularly the Epistles to the Romans and Galatians. The Anabaptists gathered adherents especially from the ignorant peasantry in Holland and Germany. The most infamous leaders of the sect were Thomas Munzer and John of Leiden, who set up what they called “kingdoms of God,” which involved communal ownership of all property and the polygamous sharing of all wives. The Anabaptists, in some ways the doctrinal forerunners of today’s Protestant Baptists, also believed in slaughtering the “Canaanites” when they had the chance, meaning any people under their control who did not adhere to their doctrines. They claimed to be free from any obligation to obey any laws because they were “Protestant men of the Gospel who were saved by grace apart from the law and were following their consciences.”
Enlightenment
Ideas which circulated in 16th and 17th century Europe, especially in France, laid some of the groundwork for a later systematic and atheistic treatment of anarchism and for its development. The French writer Rabelais, for example, proposed many anarchist concepts in his works. The primary mover toward making anarchism a respectable intellectual position, however, was Jean Jacques Rousseau. Directly and indirectly, consciously and unconsciously, American public education and popular culture even today are heavily influenced by his philosophy. It has been pointed out also that he was a major influence on the romantic movement, on the French Revolution, on the philosophy of Kant and Schopenhauer, on the plays of Schiller, and on the poetry of Goethe, Wordsworth, Byron, and Shelly, as well as on the thoughts of Marx and Tolstoi.
Rosseau popularized the exaltation of feeling and imagination over thought, along with a strong dislike for all laws, customs, manners, and conventions, as well as with a deep distrust of reason. From him have come the modern romantic and utopian views about the alleged genius and perfection of the “noble savage” and the “common man,” both of whom, according to his opinion, never show any symptoms of original sin, but only display signs of corruption from human social structures, such as religion, governments and families. Current extreme environmentalists, who regard the human species as no better than proliferating rodents and polluting vermin, also draw inspiration from him. Rousseau taught that even knowledge and art usually were instruments of corruption for men, and that civilization itself is a serious disease. His anarchic outlook was expressed in his first writing, his prize- winning essay at the Dijon Academy, and proceeded from there: “Men are born free, but are everywhere in chains.” Initially the anti-Christian “philosophes” of the Enlightenment, such as Voltaire and Diderot, welcomed him into their circle, but eventually his anarchism became too much for their taste.
Thinkers
Anarchism, following the work of Rousseau, began to be systemized in the 19th century, by such philosophers as Ludwig Feuerbach, William Goodwin, and Max Stimer, who taught that the state, property, religion, and abstract thought are all detriments to human beings and to human development. Using the slogan “property is theft,” Pierre Joseph Proudhon maintained that all private property is obtained only by stealing and monopoly and therefore should be completely eliminated along with all governments and states. However, he suggested to his disciples that they go about doing this incrementally and slowly. His views still have many adherents in the world today. It was Proudhon who first coined the word “anarchism” as an accepted philosophical term.
Count Leo Tolstoi, the Russian writer, although professing anarchism, was something of an anomaly in that he did not totally reject religion. He denied the divinity of Jesus Christ and the immortality of the human soul, but he tried to use the Christian Gospels as teaching tools for human betterment, which always is impeded, so he claimed, by every political structure and by all authority. His fellow 19th century Russian anarchist, Mikail Bakunin, had a different perspective. He held that the sciences, such as anthropology and sociology, have proved that humans are social beings by nature. But, he maintained that religion, political authority, and private property belong to the lower levels of human social evolution. Now in modern times, he said, these must be replaced by voluntary communes and associations as a higher stage of human evolution. His slogan was the oxymoron “anarchists unite!” To bring this about he recommended violence and terror, especially the assassination of prominent personages. He was strongly associated with the nihilistic thought found in Russia in that era, pushed by his pupil, Sergei Netschayev.
Murder
Following these anarchist doctrines, an Italian anarchist in 1898 stabbed to death the Austrian Empress Elizabeth as she was boarding an excursion steamer in Switzerland, and Leon Czolgosz, a Polish emigrant who at first flirted with Marx but later converted to anarchism, shot to death our American President William McKinley in 1901, in Buffalo. Political bombings and killings by ardent anarchists became widespread. The Russian Prince Petr Kropotkin tried to wed anarchism to some of the concepts of Marx. Because of this he too advocated “the eloquence of the deed,” that is, terroristic acts to galvanize fellow anarchists and to capture the imagination of the unthinking and politically inert masses of people.
By Bob Sullivan
Most Catholics would agree that being pro-life means to protect life from womb to tomb. But due to Roe v. Wade and the enormous loss of life due to the culture of death since then, there has been a significant focus on abortion, while many other life issues have received a lower priority.
By Tom Venzor
I have noted on several occasions that I sometimes write my column just prior to a major legislative debate or vote. This makes it difficult to write on some topics, lest my column become old news before it’s even published!
“Undefeated: Jim Thorpe and the Carlisle Indian School Football Team,”
by Steve Sheinkin.
Roaring Brook Press, New York, 2017, 280 pages, Grades 7-11.
Jim Thorpe was voted the greatest athlete of the first half of the 20th century by American sportswriters. His exploits on the football and track fields may never be surpassed. All-American football player, gold medal track and field star and hero to thousands of Americans and American Indians, Jim Thorpe towers above his contemporaries.
By Fr. Justin Fulton
Golf is a game that has a lot of parallels in the spiritual life. One of the things I love about golf is that we can have a round full of bad shots. And then all of the sudden we have one good shot and we are hooked for another round or two.
We only need a little bit of success to keep us going in golf. And in our walk with Christ we mess up all the time, yet we simply need to allow Him to pick us up and carry us on His way. Golf and the spiritual life are humbling and as we know from the Cross, humility opens up the gates of Heaven.
By Fr. Justin Fulton
Remember Lincoln Logs? I loved playing with those when I was a kid. I distinctly remember the smell and feel of them. I remember designing and constructing my “dream home” out of them, and including barnyard animals in the pen and the dreamscape acreage I would someday own.
Editor’s Note: Bishop Emeritus Fabian Bruskewitz wrote a series of columns on the history of anarchy in 2004. This is “The Black Flag – I” which was published Oct. 1, 2004.
“The Magic School Bus in the Time of the Dinosaurs”
by Joanna Cole, illustrated by Bruce Degen
Scholastic Inc., New York, 1994, 43 pages, Grades 3-5.
This week, children’s literature lost one of its most delightful writers. Joanna Cole, the author of The Magic School Bus series passed away.
“Dave the Potter: Artist, Poet, Slave,” by Laban Carrick Hill, illustrated by Bryan Collier.
Little, Brown and Company, New York, 2010, 40 pages, Grades 2-4.
By Fr. Justin Fulton
Remember the olden days of summer when you would lose your routine and kind of have your own little world that you attempted to run?
By Bob Sullivan
Before churches had steeples, they had altars. Altars actually existed before churches as we see in Genesis 8:20 as well as the altars built by patriarchs such as Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Moses.
In Christianity, altars have even more significance. If you go to Jerusalem today, you can actually touch the altar of all altars. You find it in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, where you can climb the steps to the top of Calvary. Once there, you can kneel on the very spot where we believe Jesus was crucified. Under a Greek Orthodox altar you can reach down and touch the rock of Calvary. When you do this, you are touching an altar because for Jesus, Calvary was the altar.
“Death Comes for the Archbishop: Scholarly Edition” by Willa Cather
University of Nebraska Press, Lincoln, Nebraska, 1999, 315 pages, Grades 9 through adult.
Willa Cather is the most famous author in history from Nebraska. She grew up in Red Cloud and attended the University of Nebraska.
By Tom Venzor
With the stroke of a pen, the U.S. Supreme Court has re-written the meaning of “sex.”
The decision that contains this radical re-write has been called “the Roe v. Wade of religious liberty,” “the Roe v. Wade for transgenderism,” “a striking display of sophistry in service of the spirit of the age,” a “seismic decision,” among many other things. The Court’s decision, Bostock v. Clayton County, will have an immediate and lasting effect on the “clash of orthodoxies” that has played out between the traditional view on marriage and human sexuality and the LGBT rights movement.
By Fr. Justin Fulton
Friends, let me share with you the only homily I will ever give on the 4th of July. It is actually a song. I feel it reminds us of the blessings our good God has given us and it helps us remember those who have died in sacrifice for a cause bigger than themselves.
“Nesting,” by Henry Cole.
Katherine Tegen Books, New York, 2019, 32 pages, K-2.
By Tom Venzor
As summer temperatures arrive and the diocesan newspapers publication deadlines are more infrequent, it becomes increasingly difficult to choose what to write in this column. It seems like these days, newsworthy events come up in the matter of a day—or even an hour. In short, there is much political news to talk about, and too little space. Be that as it may, I’ll strive to offer some, brief commentary, but ultimately invite you to join me in taking time this summer to seek a greater understanding of issues that matter most to us as Catholics.
By Fr. Justin Fulton
Dads show us how to work, protect, sacrifice, pray for, provide for, discipline, and love.
By Fr. Justin Fulton
This week we honored and mourned the lives of American heroes who have paid the ultimate sacrifice in dying for the cause of freedom. Memorial Day. As we paused to celebrate the reality that there are causes worth dying for perhaps Memorial Day provides us with an opportunity for an examination of our own consciences. Do I sacrifice daily? Do I think of others before myself always? What or who would I die for? How do I emulate Jesus and His Sacrifice? Do I know Jesus in the face of the poor?
“Chloe and the Lion,”
by Mac Barnett, illustrated by Adam Rex.
Hyperion Books, New York, 2012, 48 pages, Grades 2-4.
By Bob Sullivan
Perspicuity? What in the heck is that? If you are a convert from a non-Catholic Christian faith, you may know what perspicuity of Scripture is. If you are a cradle Catholic, you probably don’t.
By Tom Venzor
May 24 marked the five-year anniversary of Pope Francis’ encyclical, Laudato Si (On Care for Our Common Home). And five years later, we have much yet to learn from this important contribution to the Church’s social teaching tradition. In writing this encyclical, the Holy Father desires to call our attention to the beauty of creation, our place in it, the damage we have inflicted on creation, and the path to restoring our common home in accord with the desires of the One Who created her. While there is much that can be pondered in this encyclical, I humbly offer some brief takeaways for consideration.
“Petunia,” by Roger Duvoisin
Alfred A. Knopf, New York, 1950, 32 pages, K-2.
By Fr. Justin Fulton
Let me share a quick story that happened to me last Sunday, Mother’s Day.
By Bob Sullivan
A lot of contemporary thinkers, writers, “life coaches” and motivational speakers tell us we are happiest, healthiest, and most successful when we keep proper balance in our lives.
“The Rhino in Right Field,” by Stacy Dekeyser.
McElderry Books, New York, 2018, 257 pages, Grades 4-7.
By Tom Venzor
Congress and the president have undertaken several relief efforts to offset the impact of coronavirus. Among the most notable efforts have been stimulus checks to individuals and families, paycheck protection for businesses and non-profits, and expansion of unemployment benefits.
By Fr. Justin Fulton
I remember the pride I had when I stood at the podium of my high school class’s commencement exercises in May of 1999.
“The Book Rescuer: How a Mensch from Massachusetts Saved Yiddish Literature for Generations to Come”
By Sue Macy, illustrated by Stacy Innerst
Simon and Schuster, New York, 2019, 48 pages, Grades 3-5.
By Fr. Justin Fulton
Simply put, Jesus Christ—both fully human and fully Divine—was conceived by the Holy Spirit and was born of a human woman, the Virgin Mary. He didn’t fall from the sky. He chose to be born of a woman.
All human life is born from women. Jesus’ human nature was born of a woman.
Is there a higher, more noble, and more dignified role than the vocation of mother? The same way Jesus came to earth, we all came as well... all of us were born of a woman.
By Tom Venzor
Voting Reminder. Before we jump into this week’s column, just a friendly reminder: Nebraska Primary Election Day is May 12.
“Children of the Wild West,” by Russell Freedman.
Scholastic Incorporated, New York, 1983, 104 pages, Grades 4-6.
By Fr. Justin Fulton
May the Peace of the Risen Jesus Christ be with all of you.
I want to share a story with you that our volunteer coordinator in Lincoln, Jeremy Sousek, writes about today. In it, a homeless man wants something simple from his youth. It also shares about the need to talk with someone, the need for friendship, and the need to be Jesus to one another. I want to thank Jeremy for his tireless work at CSS and for sharing this encounter with Christ in the homeless.
By Tom Venzor
It’s the most wonderful time of every other year: election time! May 12 is Primary Election Day for Nebraska. However, for many people, due to coronavirus, Primary Election Day will be a stay-at-home activity done by mail-in ballot. Regardless of how you intend to vote, the Nebraska Catholic Conference is here to help with a voter guide, found at www.NebraskaCatholicVoter.com.
By Bob Sullivan
There is a new reality show which has caught the attention of many. The star is a survivor in the truest sense of the word. He can make a meal appear out of thin air, bad weather does not slow him down a bit, and regardless of the terrain, he always makes it to his destination with the greatest of ease. And how about his interpersonal skills? He’s the type of guy you either love or hate.
“The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street,”
by Karina Yan Glaser.
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, Boston, 2017, 311 pages, Grades 4-6.
By Fr. Justin Fulton
There is a wonderful lesson to be learned in John’s account of the Resurrection in Chapter 20 of his Gospel. We read this Gospel account at Easter Sunday morning Mass. Do you notice who the first person is to believe that Christ is Risen from the dead?
