Comments on: Thursday 12/14/2017 Hope: A Light in Times of Darkness

By: Anonymous

Anonymous — Fri, 15 Dec 2017 15:15:04 +0000

I appreciate your reply to my comment that related to the example you included in your reflection that specifically related to the Latino community in your area. In your response, you have broadened your comments. Indeed, while what you say is correct, you have not suggested that there may be good reasons for the government’s immigration policies. Your response conveys a bias and smacks of self-righteousness. As I commented, your reflections are enjoyed by a global readership; accordingly, I think your readers would be better served by avoiding the use of politically-charged examples of “practical application” that apply specifically to the U.S. As well, as I’ve said, you are highly regarded for your writing, and some people give you huge praise personally. For example, above, someone said that to work with you would be “both inspiring and holy.” You have a huge responsibility to be unbiased and to not maintain that you are “right” all the time. Frankly, your response reads like a childish “So, there!” that would end the matter.

By: Okpare Theophilus Onojeghen

Okpare Theophilus Onojeghen — Fri, 15 Dec 2017 08:41:43 +0000

We are touched by this global community’s prayers for my son, Urhobo. My entire family is grateful for joining faith with us. Your prayers have given us a deep sense of hope that my son would sooner be okay. Continue to pray for us, particularly Urhobo. God bless you for inspiring souls.
Okpare Theophilus Onojeghen
Checktheolife2003@gmail.com
Nigeria.

By: Mary Ortwein

Mary Ortwein — Fri, 15 Dec 2017 02:27:00 +0000

It is heartening to see the world community in today’s comments, especially as we pray for Urhobo, Okpare’s son. Okpare, we have prayed for your family, especially Urhobo, in Frankfort, Kentucky in the US today. From the looks of comments, there have been prayers around the world. I will continue to pray…for healing, for strength, for God’s light on you.
Leslie, I looked up the meaning of Matthew 11:12. Apparently scholars are unsure of its meaning. In a footnote in the Jerusalem Bible I found there are 4 possible meanings given by scholars: (1) this is the willing sacrificial violence to self of John, Jesus, and their disciples; (2) Jesus is referring to misguided violence of the Zealots who would bring the Kingdom into existence by force; (3) this is the tyrannical violence of the powers of evil; (4) there is an inherent force to the coming of the Kingdom–it is inevitable. My own thoughts on the meaning refer back to Jesus warnings of coming persecution, crosses, and sacrifices as he talked with the disciples after their being sent out to the towns to heal and teach. John’s imprisonment showed that there was potential imprisonment and even death for preaching the Kingdom. Was Jesus himself coming to an understanding that eventually his proclamation of the Kingdom would require his life? Or was he just troubled? Scholars guess. Maybe when we get to heaven we can ask.

Finally, about the immigrant point. Refugee admissions into the US were down in the 3rd quarter by 51%. Admission of Lawful Permanent Residents was 11% less. While the atmosphere is toughest on those who did not enter the US with appropriate documents, the political rhetoric and government policies are inclined toward less open borders, less openness to those who seek admission. The topic is one which has many facets and perspectives. For more information on the US Bishops position on immigration reform, see http://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/human-life-and-dignity/immigration/churchteachingonimmigrationreform.cfm

It is always a blessing to read your comments. You make me think. You ask good questions. Thanks!
Mary Ortwein

By: Maureen

Maureen — Fri, 15 Dec 2017 00:39:51 +0000

Thanks again, Mary! I wish I lived near you and could minister along side of you. That would be both inspiring and holy!
I have the same question as Mr. Judd.
Also, may God bless Okpare and his family. I pray you will know our Lord’s presence and love.

By: Anonymous

Anonymous — Thu, 14 Dec 2017 23:34:14 +0000

@Okpare, I, too, will joint many others around the world in prayer for your son and you and your family.

Mary, you are a wonderful writer whose reflections enlighten many people around the world. Today, I was so very, very sad to see how you misrepresented the situation in the U.S. to your global readers. To say that “The climate is not especially hospitable for immigrants right now,” is misleading; it is not hospitable to people who have entered the country illegally, and, in particular, those who have been deported on a prior occasion or occasions, often after committing violent crimes. I feel that you could have found a much more suitable ‘practical application’ to discuss that all of your readers would appreciate.

By: Meshack

Meshack — Thu, 14 Dec 2017 19:47:53 +0000

Thanks Mary for my wonderful reflection and gen prayer at the end. @ Okpare , I will say a Hail Mary for your son . God bless and May our Lord heal your son and Mary mother of sorrows , her son taught us by word and example the primacy of prayer in our life…

By: Laura

Laura — Thu, 14 Dec 2017 19:42:22 +0000

Thank you, Mary. God always knows when we need an extra boost, a shot of hope. Your reflection is timely and gives new light to enduring in dark times. @Okpare, I just said a prayer asking Our Blessed Lady’s intercession to fly to your assistance. She has never let me down in my dark times, and I know she’ll give you the strength of her Son. God bless your precious baby boy.

By: Carla Quigley

Carla Quigley — Thu, 14 Dec 2017 15:50:23 +0000

Miss Mary,
I must tell you how much I appreciate your taking the time to share your thoughts here. I regularly read the reflections at A Catholic Moment. And every time I find a special spark that speaks to me it seems you are the author of the reflection. It’s gotten to where I can feel a warmth of connection in my heart and I smile to myself wondering if its you. As I scroll through the words and find your tiny picture at the bottom I feel like I’ve had a talk with a friend. Your insights frequently give me the boost I need to get up and create my prayerful art. Thank you again for your insight.
Sincerely,
CarlaQ