Centurio Epistula – Law and Morality
A few days ago I wrote about putting God first. Jesus said, But seek ye first his kingdom, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. [Matt vi. 33]. This week I came across two articles with a similar theme:
The left thinks legally, the right thinks morally. The author argues that Europe and the American Left respect secular law, rather than morality, in determining what is right and good. An example of this tension that comes to my mind is the type of argument that says, “I believe life starts at conception, but I believe in the right of a woman to terminate that life [because the Supreme Court said so?]”
Caesar and Conscious addresses the relationship between law and morality. Mr. Reardon says, “It is high time, in short, for Caesar to reassess and rise to his moral responsibilities.”
We remember the Centurions not only for their relationship to God, but also for their standing in the Roman secular society evidenced by their “deliberation, constancy, and strength of mind." Emperor Constantine [IV Century] was very concerned with the state of morality in the Roman Empire, and he recognized in Christianity the moral fiber that would serve the people and the Government. He not only believed in the tenets of Christianity, he saw their practical application in the Empire. For that reason Constantine implemented legal policies like those Mr. Readon suggests : “It is certainly a function of government to “legislate morality,” not in the sense of establishing the moral law by its legislation (for that would put Caesar in the place of God), but by consulting moral principles in the crafting of that legislation
Visit the Order at www.OrderofCenturions.org
2004/09/24
2004/09/21
Centurio Epistula –St. Matthew
St. Matthew, Apostle and Evangelist [September 21]
O ALMIGHTY God, who by thy blessed Son didst call Matthew from the receipt of custom to be an Apostle and Evangelist; Grant us grace to forsake all covetous desires, and inordinate love of riches, and to follow the same thy Son Jesus Christ, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.
Matthew, whose name was Levi, was a tax collector in Capernaum. Jesus may have given him the name Matthew, which means, "gift of the Lord." Jesus called Matthew to follow him, and he did. It appears that Matthew was so happy that he called his friends to join him in a banquet. The Pharisees outside were critical of Jesus for eating with sinners, and Jesus answered by saying he came to call the sinners to righteousness.
One of the Gospels is named for Matthew, and it is generally accepted that his sayings about Jesus are included in that Gospel. The Gospel was written in Greek, probably for Jews, to prove that Jesus was the Messiah.
Traditionally, it was believed that after working as an evangelist in Judea, Matthew traveled to the east and was there martyred.
Visit the Order at www.OrderofCenturions.org
St. Matthew, Apostle and Evangelist [September 21]
O ALMIGHTY God, who by thy blessed Son didst call Matthew from the receipt of custom to be an Apostle and Evangelist; Grant us grace to forsake all covetous desires, and inordinate love of riches, and to follow the same thy Son Jesus Christ, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.
Matthew, whose name was Levi, was a tax collector in Capernaum. Jesus may have given him the name Matthew, which means, "gift of the Lord." Jesus called Matthew to follow him, and he did. It appears that Matthew was so happy that he called his friends to join him in a banquet. The Pharisees outside were critical of Jesus for eating with sinners, and Jesus answered by saying he came to call the sinners to righteousness.
One of the Gospels is named for Matthew, and it is generally accepted that his sayings about Jesus are included in that Gospel. The Gospel was written in Greek, probably for Jews, to prove that Jesus was the Messiah.
Traditionally, it was believed that after working as an evangelist in Judea, Matthew traveled to the east and was there martyred.
Visit the Order at www.OrderofCenturions.org
2004/09/18
Centurio Epistula – Putting God First
In the appointed Gospel for the 15th Sunday after Trinity , Jesus tells us we cannot have two masters. We cannot serve both God and mammon (money). Jesus then gives us wonderful examples of how God provides for his creation. He concludes by saying,
But seek ye first his kingdom, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
Four years ago during a presidential campaign debate, George W. Bush said that Jesus Christ was the most important philosopher in his life. He received quite a bit of criticism for saying that. He said the same sort of thing in his book, A Charge to Keep. Since becoming President he has stated time and again that his faith and relation with Jesus guide his decisions. That bothers a great many people. I think that is because they do not know Jesus, or understand His promise, or the way in which He, through the Holy Spirit, guides Christians.
In the Order of Centurions we salute Cornelius. God chose him to be the first baptized Christian because Cornelius put God first. God added to him eternal honor as a devout and righteous man. What more could one ask?
Visit the Order at www.OrderofCenturions.org
In the appointed Gospel for the 15th Sunday after Trinity , Jesus tells us we cannot have two masters. We cannot serve both God and mammon (money). Jesus then gives us wonderful examples of how God provides for his creation. He concludes by saying,
But seek ye first his kingdom, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
Four years ago during a presidential campaign debate, George W. Bush said that Jesus Christ was the most important philosopher in his life. He received quite a bit of criticism for saying that. He said the same sort of thing in his book, A Charge to Keep. Since becoming President he has stated time and again that his faith and relation with Jesus guide his decisions. That bothers a great many people. I think that is because they do not know Jesus, or understand His promise, or the way in which He, through the Holy Spirit, guides Christians.
In the Order of Centurions we salute Cornelius. God chose him to be the first baptized Christian because Cornelius put God first. God added to him eternal honor as a devout and righteous man. What more could one ask?
Visit the Order at www.OrderofCenturions.org
Centurio Epistula - CBS News … Do the Right Thing
Have you ever heard the old saying, “If it sounds to good to be true, it probably isn’t” Dan Rather and CBS News should have been reciting that saying last week when they presented certain documents that impinged the dignity and honor of Lt. George W. Bush. Perhaps their bias got in the way of their better judgement. By everything I see now, it appears the alleged memoranda of Lt. Col. Killian were fraudulent. CBS was duped; and they know it.
So, Centurions, what is the right thing to do?
My opinion: to begin with, based on the overwhelming evidence against these documents, CBS ought to lead the investigation into their source and get the affair out in the open where a good airing can heal it. If they are fraudulent, then a retraction and apology are in order. At the very least now, there should be an admission that the allegations are not founded because of the doubt behind the witnesses’ credibility. That isn’t what we got, however. What we got instead was self-righteous justification..
By Wednesday, Rather was inhaling smoke from his own fogging machine, claiming that if the documents were forgeries, "I want to break the story." Really, folks, he actually said that. And then he went on to say that the authenticity of the documents didn't matter, only that what was in them was true. Really, he actually said that, too. [Federalist Journal]
I am doing a detailed study of Exodus these days, and the IX Commandment comes to mind:
“Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor”
Now the IX Commandment concerns giving testimony, but the spirit goes much beyond that. Whenever a person utters something about his neighbor that causes people to believe bad things, and that something is not true, then he has indeed born false witness. We are all subject to commit this sin from time to time if we pass along information. Last year I was caught twice on this very thing when I forwarded stories in the form of emails {I don’t know why I gave them credibility – probably because of bias an I wanted to believe the worst was true).. Benevolent friends on my mailing list referred me to UrbanLegends.com and a site called TruthorFiction.com where one can see if the story has been investigated. I ended up publishing two retractions to almost my whole mailing list. In the age of the Internet, when news travels “faster than a speeding bullet”, if behooves all of us to take care in what we might forward to others as “news” when it defames a neighbor.
One of the good things to be appearing on the Internet these days are blogs from some very wise and inquiring folk. It was the bloggers who quickly saw this "witness" for what it was and blew the whistle on CBS.
TIME DEUM ET OPERARE IUSTITIAM
Visit the Order at www.OrderofCenturions.org
Have you ever heard the old saying, “If it sounds to good to be true, it probably isn’t” Dan Rather and CBS News should have been reciting that saying last week when they presented certain documents that impinged the dignity and honor of Lt. George W. Bush. Perhaps their bias got in the way of their better judgement. By everything I see now, it appears the alleged memoranda of Lt. Col. Killian were fraudulent. CBS was duped; and they know it.
So, Centurions, what is the right thing to do?
My opinion: to begin with, based on the overwhelming evidence against these documents, CBS ought to lead the investigation into their source and get the affair out in the open where a good airing can heal it. If they are fraudulent, then a retraction and apology are in order. At the very least now, there should be an admission that the allegations are not founded because of the doubt behind the witnesses’ credibility. That isn’t what we got, however. What we got instead was self-righteous justification..
By Wednesday, Rather was inhaling smoke from his own fogging machine, claiming that if the documents were forgeries, "I want to break the story." Really, folks, he actually said that. And then he went on to say that the authenticity of the documents didn't matter, only that what was in them was true. Really, he actually said that, too. [Federalist Journal]
I am doing a detailed study of Exodus these days, and the IX Commandment comes to mind:
“Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor”
Now the IX Commandment concerns giving testimony, but the spirit goes much beyond that. Whenever a person utters something about his neighbor that causes people to believe bad things, and that something is not true, then he has indeed born false witness. We are all subject to commit this sin from time to time if we pass along information. Last year I was caught twice on this very thing when I forwarded stories in the form of emails {I don’t know why I gave them credibility – probably because of bias an I wanted to believe the worst was true).. Benevolent friends on my mailing list referred me to UrbanLegends.com and a site called TruthorFiction.com where one can see if the story has been investigated. I ended up publishing two retractions to almost my whole mailing list. In the age of the Internet, when news travels “faster than a speeding bullet”, if behooves all of us to take care in what we might forward to others as “news” when it defames a neighbor.
One of the good things to be appearing on the Internet these days are blogs from some very wise and inquiring folk. It was the bloggers who quickly saw this "witness" for what it was and blew the whistle on CBS.
TIME DEUM ET OPERARE IUSTITIAM
Visit the Order at www.OrderofCenturions.org
2004/09/14
Centurio Epistula - Holy Cross Day
Today is Holy Cross Day, please pause to recite today's collect:
Almighty God, whose Son our Savior Jesus Christ was lifted high upon the cross that he might draw the whole world unto himself: Mercifully grant that we, who glory in the mystery of our redemption, may have grace to take up our cross and follow him; who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Spirit, one God, in glory everlasting. Amen +
I commend this site for a very good discussion on this feast day http://www.satucket.com/lectionary/Holy_Cross.htm
This is an special day in the calendar of the Order of the Centurions. It was first celebrated as a feast day in 335 on 14 September when the Church of the Holy Sepulchre was dedicated. Helena, mother of Emperor Constantine, went to the Holy Land to find the ancient places of the Bible and located Golgatha, the tomb, and the remains of the Cross. She set the practice for later pilgrimages that continue to this day. Her faith was important to Constantine's, who we recognize in the Order, and the entire Orthodox and Catholic Church as we know it today.
Almighty God, whose Son our Savior Jesus Christ was lifted high upon the cross that he might draw the whole world unto himself: Mercifully grant that we, who glory in the mystery of our redemption, may have grace to take up our cross and follow him; who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Spirit, one God, in glory everlasting. Amen +
I commend this site for a very good discussion on this feast day http://www.satucket.com/lectionary/Holy_Cross.htm
This is an special day in the calendar of the Order of the Centurions. It was first celebrated as a feast day in 335 on 14 September when the Church of the Holy Sepulchre was dedicated. Helena, mother of Emperor Constantine, went to the Holy Land to find the ancient places of the Bible and located Golgatha, the tomb, and the remains of the Cross. She set the practice for later pilgrimages that continue to this day. Her faith was important to Constantine's, who we recognize in the Order, and the entire Orthodox and Catholic Church as we know it today.
2004/09/11
Centurio Epistula 9/11 Lord have mercyÂ…
Today as I watched the scene at Ground Zero, and saw the survivors of the Attack on America, I was mindful of the Gospel account for this Sunday, the
14th Sunday after Trinity. The ten lepers called out to Jesus for help saying, Master, have mercy on us. At Ground Zero, three years after the fact, the people are still in mourning. I could not hear their cry, but I imagined that they too were crying out to the Lord, asking that He would heal them, protect them, and comfort them in their loss.
In the Gospel story, Jesus answered the call of the lepers; he healed them with his word. Jesus continues to heal by his word and command today; He said, Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid [Jn 14:27]
The collect for this Sunday is quite appropriate for the times:
Almighty and everlasting God, give unto us the increase of faith, hope, and charity; and, that we may obtain that which thou dost promise, make us to love that which thou dost command; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
2004/09/10
Centurio Epistula - Choosing the Lesser Evil
America's Responsibility in the Present Crisis - "When men or nations must choose between two evils, the choice of the lesser evil becomes Christian duty ... That is the alternative confronting the American people now."
This was written in 1940 concerning the Axis powers by the Christian realists. I invite you to read this commentary entitled Onward, Christian Pacifists
The author compares the pacifists of the 30's and 40's with today in reminding us of our need to meet international tyranny head on. There are times when "doing the right thing" will require us to take action to prevent the wrong thing... and so it is with international terrorism that strikes the young, defenseless, and innocent to shock the powerful - Remember the school children in Russia - Remember 9/11 - Remember the trains in Spain - Remember WWII - REMEMBER.
Visit the Order at www.OrderofCenturions.org
America's Responsibility in the Present Crisis - "When men or nations must choose between two evils, the choice of the lesser evil becomes Christian duty ... That is the alternative confronting the American people now."
This was written in 1940 concerning the Axis powers by the Christian realists. I invite you to read this commentary entitled Onward, Christian Pacifists
The author compares the pacifists of the 30's and 40's with today in reminding us of our need to meet international tyranny head on. There are times when "doing the right thing" will require us to take action to prevent the wrong thing... and so it is with international terrorism that strikes the young, defenseless, and innocent to shock the powerful - Remember the school children in Russia - Remember 9/11 - Remember the trains in Spain - Remember WWII - REMEMBER.
Visit the Order at www.OrderofCenturions.org
2004/09/07
Centurio Epistula - Arab Self Critical Commentary
The recent terrorist strikes in
I am thankful that he has spoken out against the violence and has called faithful Arabs to action to do the right thing.
I bid your prayers for peace and safety.
****************************
Investigative Project
Steven Emerson
Executive Director
202-363-8602 202-966-5191 fax
Given the particularly horrific attacks by Islamic terrorists in the past week in
The piece should be required reading for the editorial apologists of militant Islam at the New York Times, the LA Times, and the Chicago Tribune who have recently criticized the decision by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to deny Islamic "scholar" Tariq Ramadan a visa to the United States to teach at Notre Dame. DHS did the right thing in stopping Ramadan--who professes moderation but is in fact a savvy purveyor of Islamic extremism -- from getting a visa to pollute the minds of young Americans.
Similarly, the attached piece comes only two days after the Associated Press filed a story on September 3 on radical cleric Yousef Al-Qaradawi, who, as the author noted below, just issued a fatwa calling for the killing of Americans. The AP story however characterized Al-Qaradawi as someone "whose voice carries considerable weight in the Islamic world [and] is considered a moderate figure who has condemned violence." Nothing could be further from the truth; Qaradawai has been justifying suicide bombings against "infidels" for years.
One of the reasons why Islamic terrorism continues to fester is that we in the West have indulged extremists or fallen for their deception. That is the real lesson of 9-11. Not flow-charts. Not redesigned bureaucracies. But the pervasiveness of Islamic militancy within the Islamic world, a fact that some in the United States continue to deny with the connivance of "mainstream" Islamic leaders who live here and who, in a twist of reality, assert that "Islam is under assault" or that anti-terror policies of the US is "anti-Muslim." No, the spread of Islamic extremism is the problem. And those who contend otherwise are wittingly and unwittingly allowing the purveyors of Islamic extremism to effectively deny any culpability in this murderous ideology.
Steve Emerson
Executive Director
The Investigative Project
'Innocent religion is now a message of hate'
(Filed:
Abdel Rahman al-Rashed is general manager of Al- Arabiya news channel. Yesterday, his article appeared in the pan-Arabic newspaper Al-Sharq Al-Awsat.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/main.jhtml?xml=/news/2004/09/05/wosse605.xml
It is a certain fact that not all Muslims are terrorists, but it is equally certain, and exceptionally painful, that almost all terrorists are Muslims.
The hostage-takers of children in Beslan,
Those responsible for the attacks on residential towers in
Bin Laden is a Muslim. The majority of those who manned the suicide bombings against buses, vehicles, schools, houses and buildings, all over the world, were Muslim.
What a pathetic record. What an abominable "achievement". Does all this tell us anything about ourselves, our societies and our culture?
These images, when put together, or taken separately, are shameful and degrading. But let us start with putting an end to a history of denial. Let us acknowledge their reality, instead of denying them and seeking to justify them with sound and fury signifying nothing.
For it would be easy to cure ourselves if we realise the seriousness of our sickness. Self-cure starts with self-realisation and confession. We should then run after our terrorist sons, in the full knowledge that they are the sour grapes of a deformed culture.
Let us listen to Yusuf al-Qaradawi, the Sheikh - the Qatar-based radical Egyptian cleric - and hear him recite his "fatwa" about the religious permissibility of killing civilian Americans in
This ailing Sheikh, in his last days, with two daughters studying in "infidel"
How could this Sheikh face the mother of the youthful Nick Berg, who was slaughtered in
In a different era, we used to consider the extremists, with nationalist or Leftist leanings, a menace and a source of corruption because of their adoption of violence as a means of discourse and their involvement in murder as an easy shortcut to their objectives.
At that time, the mosque used to be a haven, and the voice of religion used to be that of peace and reconciliation. Religious sermons were warm behests for a moral order and an ethical life.
Then came the Neo-Muslims. An innocent and benevolent religion, whose verses prohibit the felling of trees in the absence of urgent necessity, that calls murder the most heinous of crimes, that says explicitly that if you kill one person you have killed humanity as a whole, has been turned into a global message of hate and a universal war cry.
We can't call those who take schoolchildren as hostages our own.
We cannot tolerate in our midst those who abduct journalists, murder civilians, explode buses; we cannot accept them as related to us, whatever the sufferings they claim to justify their criminal deeds. These are the people who have smeared Islam and stained its image.
We cannot clear our names unless we own up to the shameful fact that terrorism has become an Islamic enterprise; an almost exclusive monopoly, implemented by Muslim men and women.
We cannot redeem our extremist youths, who commit all these heinous crimes, without confronting the Sheikhs who thought it ennobling to re-invent themselves as revolutionary ideologues, sending other people's sons and daughters to certain death, while sending their own children to European and American schools and colleges.
2004/09/06
Centurio Epistual - Inspirational Web Sites
A salute to Brother Floyd, a fellow centurion who shares this "Interview with God" inspirational web site with the order. The site features beautiful photographs, serene music, and a poem in the form of an interview with God. The presentation requires a little time to download before playing.
A related site is Pathways to Peace .
Both sites also offer for sale screensavers, calendars, etc.
2004/09/05
Centurio Epistula - Summary of the Law
The Rule of the Order of Centurions, and the Vow of the Order ,include the Summary of the Law. The Gospel lesson for the 13th Sunday after Trinity begins at Luke x. 23. In the passage, a lawyer temps Jesus by asking, "Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?" Jesus responds with a question, "What is written in the law? how readest thou? " The lawyer answered with what we know as the Summary of the Law,
"Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself."
Jesus said he was right and then told him,
"this do, and thou shalt live"
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2004/09/03
Centurio Epistula – Natural Law and Homosexuality
OrthodoxyToday.org is back publishing and I commend this article entitled:
Homosexuality and the Corruption of a Culture: San Francisco is only the beginning
by John Mark Reynolds that was posted yesterday 9/02/04.
Mr. Reynolds makes a secular and religious case against any culture "approving" homosexual marriage - he makes a distinction between approval and endorsement as opposed to toleration.
His first argument looks to what everyone knows without having to look to any particular religion: Natural Law if you will (physical as well). He writes:
Homosexuality is not natural. Sexual relations, and the body parts that go with them, are designed for reproduction and for pleasure. The two functions are joined. Males and females are quite literally made for each other. Any other form of sexuality is deviant in the sense that it is not natural, not part of God's design plan for human beings. Humans are bi-sexual.
He then argues from a religious perspective. He says that Christianity, Judaism, and Islam, as well as most all other religions have always taught that homosexuality is wicked and warns that
"God judges wicked nations as well as wicked men."
Centurio Epistula - Contemplative Rudder
Centurions:
One of the rules for the Order of Centurions is to Pray "without ceasing". Bishop John+ has written to us and shared this site that you may find resourceful
Between the Clouds: A Rudder for the Contemplative
located at:
http://www.contemplativerudder.com/The site suggests a framework for daily prayer based on the ancient hours of Matins and Lauds for Morning Prayer and Vespers and Compline for Evening Prayer. The site offers a selection of readings for these divine hours.
2004/09/01
Centurio Epistula - Natural Law and Doing What is Right
The Natural Law is what all men know to be right and wrong. My first exposure to this concept was in the CS Lewis book, The Abolition of Man. I was delighted to have found this excellent book on the web and encourage all to read it. At the very least, please pause to briefly take a look at the Appendix where Lewis speaks of the codification of the Natural Law, which he calls Tao, in many of the religious writings from around the world. The acknowledged source of the Natural Law is of course God. When man teaches that the Natural Law is wrong - and substitues other things as right, he is on the slope to the abolition of man. (e.g. Episocpal Church USA and homosexuality).
On the Acton web site there is an excellent interview by Religion and Liberty Journal with Dr. J. Budziszewski entitled The Natural Law Is What We Naturally Know that looks at his new book, What We Can't Not Know-A Guide. His testimony at the end of the interview about his movement from atheism to Christianity is very interesting. Budziszewski, like Lewis, is an Anglican, and his emphasis on Reason is in the Anglican tradition. He also makes the point that there is no conflict between Scripture and the Natural Law.
An awareness of the Natural Law is important for Centurions seeking to Fear God and do what is right. The Scriptures speak of following the Spirit of the Law that gives life and not the letter of the law that kills [2Cor 3:6] and the Natural Law does indeed exist for all [Rom 2:14-15] Certainly, God is the author of the Natural Law. The Law that God has written on our hearts must guide us in our day-to-day encounters as we endeavor to live in this world and do what is right.
If you are interested in exploring Natural Law further, and would like to read from works throughout the ages, you may find this Natural Law/Natural Right Page resourceful.
2004/08/29
Centurio Epistula - Voting Guide
In the Gospel appointed for the 12th Sunday after Trinity, the people observing Jesus healing the deaf mute said of him, "he hath done all things well" [Mk 7:37]. Jesus set the standard for us in doing Good for he alone was "Good" [Mt 19:17]. Over a century ago, Charles M. Sheldon wrote a novel "In His Steps" encouraging Christians to follow Jesus bearing good fruit after the model of Jesus. The question posed is, "What would Jesus do?, and What would Jesus have me do?"
As the elections in the United States approach, U.S. Centurions will have the opportunity to ask these questions when they go to vote. St. Paul encouraged us to exercise good citizenship, and Jesus told us to "let your light so shine before men, that they may see you good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." [Mt 5:16]. Our vote is secret so that no one may see the work in the ballot; however Jesus sees not only the vote, but what is in our hearts. All can see the result of the collective work by the people in election of a certain candidate.
Catholic Answers, has published a Voters Guide. Although not approved by the American Roman Catholic bishops, it is being widely distributed. In it they list five areas of concern that are related to the sanctity of life and the sacrament of marriage. I believe all orthodox Christians should be concerned with these issues. The guide says, "Catholics have a moral obligation to promote the common good through the exercise of their voting privileges. It is not just civil authorities who have responsibility for a country. Service of the common good requires citizens to fulfill their roles in the life of the political community . This means citizens should participate in the political process at the ballot box.
I encourage all Centurions to vote in their local and national elections, and to consider each candidate's stand on all issues that are important to the Church Militant. In voting, keep in mind our motto: Fear God and do what is right, and the words of St. James, "faith, if it hath no works is dead [and] him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin" [James 2:17 and 4:17].
2004/08/24
Centurio Epistula - Truth of our Faith
On August 20th I blogged: "No other gods but me" and said, "The laboratory determines outcomes very well, it does not covey truth or values - that is something that man must try to discern. He normally conveys truth and value in the stories and myths of his culture - as he listens to that small voice that speaks the language of truth and justice, love and hate"
In continuing to consider our culture's other gods: and how we convey and can prove the truth of our faith, I commend the excellent article The Proof of Truth: Challenging the Criteria for Truth by T.M. Moore
The main idea that I pulled from his article was the failure of modern rationalism and post-modern approaches for society. He says: "For the clear teaching of Scripture, as we see it, for example, in John's second epistle, is that love is the proof and fruit of truth. We will know that we have achieved truth, and that it abides in us, when the fruit of love is consistently evident in our lives, beginning in our relationships with one another in the Body of Christ." As the old cliche says, "The proof of the pudding is in the eating."
It so happens that lessons for today for the Feast of St. Bartholomew reinforce Rev. Moore's article. In St. Luke xxii. 24 , Jesus instructs the disciples on the correct relationship with one another, following his example of loving service. In Acts v. 12, we hear how the evidence of that relationship served to prove the faith and attracted the multitudes.
Saint Bartholomew - 24 August
Centurions
Today, 24 August, the Church remembers the Apostle Bartholomew. Ancient tradition has it that Bartholomew "Son of Tolmai" was flayed alive at Albanopolis in Armenia. Eusebius reported that when Pantaenus of Alexandria visited India between 150 and 200 he found there Matthew's Gospel that had been left by Bartholomew
continued Lessons & Homily http://www.orderofcenturions.org/documents/bartholomew.html
The Martydom of St. Bartholomew, Ribera 1632
Today, 24 August, the Church remembers the Apostle Bartholomew. Ancient tradition has it that Bartholomew "Son of Tolmai" was flayed alive at Albanopolis in Armenia. Eusebius reported that when Pantaenus of Alexandria visited India between 150 and 200 he found there Matthew's Gospel that had been left by Bartholomew
continued Lessons & Homily http://www.orderofcenturions.org/documents/bartholomew.html
The Martydom of St. Bartholomew, Ribera 1632
2004/08/23
Centurio Epistula - Reality of Evil
Recommend the article Evil and the Anarchy-Repression Continuum by Jay Bryant. Mr Bryant writes:
The leading modern authority on evil, author and Time Magazine writer Lance Morrow, notes that "many people do not believe evil exists," and echoes Conquest in saying, "The children of the Enlightenment sometimes have an inadequate understanding of the possibilities of the Endarkenment." He believes it is "fatuous" to deny the existence of evil, cautioning also against tossing the word around irresponsibly.
Along with this "enlightenment" on evil, is of course the notion that there is no devil. It's proponents are not limited to those outside the Church. I've been with clergy holding masters in theology who tell their congregations that there is no evil, no devil, no hell.
As Christians we should never doubt the existence of evil. In the Lord's prayer, we ask God to "deliver us from evil" or as the NRSV says, "rescue us from the evil one." This prayer should be part of every Christian's daily prayer life and is part of the Order's recommended Devotion. Early Christian Centurions would have prayed the Lord's Prayer three times daily [Didache 8]. It is part of the Daily Office and the Holy Eucharist.
Finally, as Lance Morrow points out, we must take care in using word to label people or things as evil. Remember always the IX Commandment.
2004/08/21
Centurio Epistula - Just War and Chivalry
CS Lewis said, If the chivalrous character is not espoused by the Church and acquired in the military, it will likely not be acquired at all, and if there are no chivalrous soldiers, then no war - however just its cause - can be fought justly.
I recommend the article: The Problem of War: C. S. Lewis on Pacifism, War & the Christian Warrior by Darrell Cole
http://www.touchstonemag.com/docs/issues/16.3docs/16-3pg45.html
Mr. Cole cites many of Lewis' writings as he comments on Lewis' ideas about war and the warrior. He addresses such issues as the failure of pacifism, chivalry, liberal humanism, Christian witness, and the good war. The article is timely considering we are in the midst of a new type of warfare as we face global terrorism that can strike anywhere, anytime, and has been defined by the terrorist largely along cultural and religious lines. There is a real need for our soldiers to display and exercise chivalry given the nature of the engagements - a fact that was brought into forefront with the treatment of prisoners by US Military Police and Intelligence Officers.
The centurions of the New Testament, to whose example the Order of Centurions is devoted, exemplified the essence of chivalry. The Order, as part of the Church Militant, does indeed espouse the chivalrous character of these centurions and their successors throughout the history of the Church.
I bid your prayers for the chaplains of our armed forces who represent the Church before our warriors, and must convey the ideas of just war and a soldier's responsibility for conduct as Christian Warriors. Please pass this along to any chaplains and warriors who might benefit from Mr. Coles' article.
I recommend the article: The Problem of War: C. S. Lewis on Pacifism, War & the Christian Warrior by Darrell Cole
http://www.touchstonemag.com/docs/issues/16.3docs/16-3pg45.html
Mr. Cole cites many of Lewis' writings as he comments on Lewis' ideas about war and the warrior. He addresses such issues as the failure of pacifism, chivalry, liberal humanism, Christian witness, and the good war. The article is timely considering we are in the midst of a new type of warfare as we face global terrorism that can strike anywhere, anytime, and has been defined by the terrorist largely along cultural and religious lines. There is a real need for our soldiers to display and exercise chivalry given the nature of the engagements - a fact that was brought into forefront with the treatment of prisoners by US Military Police and Intelligence Officers.
The centurions of the New Testament, to whose example the Order of Centurions is devoted, exemplified the essence of chivalry. The Order, as part of the Church Militant, does indeed espouse the chivalrous character of these centurions and their successors throughout the history of the Church.
I bid your prayers for the chaplains of our armed forces who represent the Church before our warriors, and must convey the ideas of just war and a soldier's responsibility for conduct as Christian Warriors. Please pass this along to any chaplains and warriors who might benefit from Mr. Coles' article.
2004/08/20
No other gods but me ...
In the Order of Centurions, our Vow calls for us to endeavor to follow the Ten Commandments and the Summary of the Law. Part of the recommend Devotional Liturgy is the Decalogue: The Ten Commandments. The First Commandment says: I am the Lord thy God, thou shalt have no other gods but me.
I recommend you read of this timely article by Reverend Mark H. Creech entitled The Inevitable Result of Secular Humanism. http://headlines.agapepress.org/archive/8/172004mc.asp
Now most people today don't seem concerned very much about the First Commandment, they don't think it applies to them. The Second Commandment is related to the First. It tells people that they shall not make any idols for themselves. We don't often see, in our modern culture, the local silversmith doing a thriving business on household idols for folks to worship. So where is the problem?
SECULAR HUMANISM, RATIONALISM, & SCIENTISM
I think of these as the Unholy Trinity. They are interrelated concepts that man has glorified and worships. He believes the unholy trinity provides the ultimate truth. Step into any biology classroom. The Theory of Evolution is taught as fact that brooks no competition from deists. We have a culture that has transferred this theory into a belief that man’s values and conduct evolve toward some greater good while at the same time denying that there is any "greater good." Modern man worships the unholy trinity in place of God. It isn’t limited to the pagans. One may hear the mantra from the pulpit on any given Sunday morning in many churches. There is more faith in the scientific lab, political dealings, or social action, to solve the problems of world than there is in God's providence. When modern man embraces the unholy trinity as the end-all, the ultimate truth, he makes it his new god. He puts his trust in mankind. The Scriptures are replete with the folly of man trusting in his own ways, and they begin in the beginning when Eve was beguiled into believing that she could be like God - that she could know what God knows - that she would decide good and evil. We have several generations that have been beguiled in the belief that secular humanism, rationalism, relativity, and scientific “proof” will provide all the answers for us, and find all the cures. Part of the fault is as old as religion itself. Science is the new magic which has always had its worshippers. Part of the fault lies in generalizing. What works well for proving scientific theories, through the scientific method, does not work well for governing our relationships and values. Albert Einstien reminded us that "Relativity applies to physics, not ethics" The laboratory determines outcomes very well, it does not covey truth or values - that is something that man must try to discern. He normally conveys truth an value in the stories and myths of his culture - as he listens to that small voice that speaks the language of truth and justice, love and hate. Social theory, and its bed-partner psychology, have engendered social experimentation in my country. Its results are often disappointing as measured by such indicators as abortion, illegitimacy, divorce, unemployment, convictions, etc.( see the article A painful anniversary by Thomas Sowell.)
We are assaulted with a media that is intent on replacing the one true God with another god as well - HEDONISM - the pursuit of or devotion to pleasure, especially to the pleasures of the senses.. Shows like Nip/Tuck continually push the envelope of to disparage traditional morals and promote hedonism. In one episode the main character said, "Don't you get it? There's nothing to believe in anymore." We have a society where traditional Christian values have been turned upside down, and the remnant of those who hold God as Sovereign grows smaller daily. What shall we do? "The Order was established as an association of Christians to resist the corruption and error found in the world … and encourage members to live by the plain Word of Scripture" May God grant us success!
Visit the Order at www.OrderofCenturions.org
In the Order of Centurions, our Vow calls for us to endeavor to follow the Ten Commandments and the Summary of the Law. Part of the recommend Devotional Liturgy is the Decalogue: The Ten Commandments. The First Commandment says: I am the Lord thy God, thou shalt have no other gods but me.
I recommend you read of this timely article by Reverend Mark H. Creech entitled The Inevitable Result of Secular Humanism. http://headlines.agapepress.org/archive/8/172004mc.asp
Now most people today don't seem concerned very much about the First Commandment, they don't think it applies to them. The Second Commandment is related to the First. It tells people that they shall not make any idols for themselves. We don't often see, in our modern culture, the local silversmith doing a thriving business on household idols for folks to worship. So where is the problem?
SECULAR HUMANISM, RATIONALISM, & SCIENTISM
I think of these as the Unholy Trinity. They are interrelated concepts that man has glorified and worships. He believes the unholy trinity provides the ultimate truth. Step into any biology classroom. The Theory of Evolution is taught as fact that brooks no competition from deists. We have a culture that has transferred this theory into a belief that man’s values and conduct evolve toward some greater good while at the same time denying that there is any "greater good." Modern man worships the unholy trinity in place of God. It isn’t limited to the pagans. One may hear the mantra from the pulpit on any given Sunday morning in many churches. There is more faith in the scientific lab, political dealings, or social action, to solve the problems of world than there is in God's providence. When modern man embraces the unholy trinity as the end-all, the ultimate truth, he makes it his new god. He puts his trust in mankind. The Scriptures are replete with the folly of man trusting in his own ways, and they begin in the beginning when Eve was beguiled into believing that she could be like God - that she could know what God knows - that she would decide good and evil. We have several generations that have been beguiled in the belief that secular humanism, rationalism, relativity, and scientific “proof” will provide all the answers for us, and find all the cures. Part of the fault is as old as religion itself. Science is the new magic which has always had its worshippers. Part of the fault lies in generalizing. What works well for proving scientific theories, through the scientific method, does not work well for governing our relationships and values. Albert Einstien reminded us that "Relativity applies to physics, not ethics" The laboratory determines outcomes very well, it does not covey truth or values - that is something that man must try to discern. He normally conveys truth an value in the stories and myths of his culture - as he listens to that small voice that speaks the language of truth and justice, love and hate. Social theory, and its bed-partner psychology, have engendered social experimentation in my country. Its results are often disappointing as measured by such indicators as abortion, illegitimacy, divorce, unemployment, convictions, etc.( see the article A painful anniversary by Thomas Sowell.)
We are assaulted with a media that is intent on replacing the one true God with another god as well - HEDONISM - the pursuit of or devotion to pleasure, especially to the pleasures of the senses.. Shows like Nip/Tuck continually push the envelope of to disparage traditional morals and promote hedonism. In one episode the main character said, "Don't you get it? There's nothing to believe in anymore." We have a society where traditional Christian values have been turned upside down, and the remnant of those who hold God as Sovereign grows smaller daily. What shall we do? "The Order was established as an association of Christians to resist the corruption and error found in the world … and encourage members to live by the plain Word of Scripture" May God grant us success!
Visit the Order at www.OrderofCenturions.org
2004/08/18
Pray for Kings
In the Order of Centurions, our Rule calls for us to pray. We are called specifically to offer prayers for kings (make that "leaders" in most countries today).
In the Order's Eucharistic Liturgy, praying for the World and its leaders is the first of the biddings in accordance with Paul's exhortation: Saint Paul instructing Timothy said, "I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time." [1 Ti 2:1-6]
We in the US are of course called to offer up intercessory prayers for our President - whomever he may be at the time - regardless of party! Currently that is George W. Bush, a man who takes a lot of criticism for his religion.
( http://www.townhall.com/columnists/GuestColumns/Shaheen20040817.shtml )You might find the interview with Emily Shaheen about her new book God and George W. Bush interesting. In one response Ms Shaheen says, "I hope to convince people that Bush’s faith is nothing to fear. He is no more devout than the vast majority of our presidents, and he is a far better human being with his faith than without it. Bush subscribes to what Terry Eastland of The Weekly Standard calls a Love Thy Neighbor theology. Jesus constantly spoke of love and called the love commandment the greatest commandment. Bush constantly cites the commandment Love thy neighbor as thyself as proof that we should tolerate all people and all faiths. No President EVER has spoken so warmly of Islam, even before September 11, 2001! "
The Love thy neighbor as thyself commandment, to which she refers, is part of the Summary of the Law cited by Jesus and declared the second greatest commandment. It is also part of the Centurion's Rule. She also cites many other presidents and candidates, of both parties, concerning their religious beliefs.
Visit the Order at www.OrderofCenturions.org
In the Order of Centurions, our Rule calls for us to pray. We are called specifically to offer prayers for kings (make that "leaders" in most countries today).
In the Order's Eucharistic Liturgy, praying for the World and its leaders is the first of the biddings in accordance with Paul's exhortation: Saint Paul instructing Timothy said, "I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time." [1 Ti 2:1-6]
We in the US are of course called to offer up intercessory prayers for our President - whomever he may be at the time - regardless of party! Currently that is George W. Bush, a man who takes a lot of criticism for his religion.
( http://www.townhall.com/columnists/GuestColumns/Shaheen20040817.shtml )You might find the interview with Emily Shaheen about her new book God and George W. Bush interesting. In one response Ms Shaheen says, "I hope to convince people that Bush’s faith is nothing to fear. He is no more devout than the vast majority of our presidents, and he is a far better human being with his faith than without it. Bush subscribes to what Terry Eastland of The Weekly Standard calls a Love Thy Neighbor theology. Jesus constantly spoke of love and called the love commandment the greatest commandment. Bush constantly cites the commandment Love thy neighbor as thyself as proof that we should tolerate all people and all faiths. No President EVER has spoken so warmly of Islam, even before September 11, 2001! "
The Love thy neighbor as thyself commandment, to which she refers, is part of the Summary of the Law cited by Jesus and declared the second greatest commandment. It is also part of the Centurion's Rule. She also cites many other presidents and candidates, of both parties, concerning their religious beliefs.
Visit the Order at www.OrderofCenturions.org
2004/08/12
Rational Denial of Transgression - A Legalism
A critic of Christian doctrine confuses religion with ethnicity by
Gene Edward Veith
http://www.worldmag.com/newsite/content/subscriber/displayarticle.cfm?id=9520
Mr. Veith says,
"Ironically, those who insist on how good they are - not just
pro-abortionists and gays but corrupt politicians, shady businessmen,
cheating spouses, porn fans, and everyday devotees of gossip,
viciousness, lies, cruelty, anger, envy, pride - are exhibiting the
trait of self-righteousness. They deal with their sins by denying that
they are sins, ending up just as legalistic as the most self-righteous
Pharisee."
Notice that he makes his list of transgressors broad enough so that no
one should feel left out. Who has not experienced unjustified anger or entertained gossip at some point? Is there anyone who never thought "fool" of another at some time? All these mental states are included by our Lord of violations of the law. If we tend to rationalize these away as not being sins, then Veith says we are being leagalistic.
The 1928 Prayer book called for Daily Morning Prayer in which one would confess their sins, and should not "dissemble" them. This is pricisely what Veith addresses. Dissemble means to disguise or conceal the real nature of. Unfortnuately, those words and concepts are little used today. It is good that Mr. Veith refreshes our collective memory.
Primus Pilus
Gene Edward Veith
http://www.worldmag.com/newsite/content/subscriber/displayarticle.cfm?id=9520
Mr. Veith says,
"Ironically, those who insist on how good they are - not just
pro-abortionists and gays but corrupt politicians, shady businessmen,
cheating spouses, porn fans, and everyday devotees of gossip,
viciousness, lies, cruelty, anger, envy, pride - are exhibiting the
trait of self-righteousness. They deal with their sins by denying that
they are sins, ending up just as legalistic as the most self-righteous
Pharisee."
Notice that he makes his list of transgressors broad enough so that no
one should feel left out. Who has not experienced unjustified anger or entertained gossip at some point? Is there anyone who never thought "fool" of another at some time? All these mental states are included by our Lord of violations of the law. If we tend to rationalize these away as not being sins, then Veith says we are being leagalistic.
The 1928 Prayer book called for Daily Morning Prayer in which one would confess their sins, and should not "dissemble" them. This is pricisely what Veith addresses. Dissemble means to disguise or conceal the real nature of. Unfortnuately, those words and concepts are little used today. It is good that Mr. Veith refreshes our collective memory.
Primus Pilus
Centurio Epistula - Witness
Influence or Size? Why World-Changing Churches Look So Different:
An attitude change among church leaders is sweeping through the Church.http://religionjournal.com/showarticle.asp?id=1633
The
purpose of our Order includes WITNESS. The above article discusses how churches may witness Christ by becoming involved in their local communities.The approach of the article is optimistic. It reminds us that we are to be engaged in the world. It also reminds us of the success of the Gospel in our time (for example in Africa where the growth of the Church has been phenomenal).
Remember the words of St. Francis:
"Preach the Gospel at all times. If necessary use words."2004/08/06
Centurio Epistula - Transfiguration
The Feast of the Transfiguration has been celebrated in the East since the fourth century in remembrance of the occasion in the Gospel account when Jesus' appearance was gloriously transformed. That day on a mountaintop he stood in the company of two departed saints - Moses and Elias - whose appearance was also glorious. That day his Father in heaven appeared, gave witness to his Son, and commanded us to "hear him."
read on: http://orderofcenturions.org/documents/transfiguration.html
A great resource on the web with some very nice Icons is this essay:
THE SYMBOLISM OF THE SKÉNÉ ENTITLED: "The Skéné — A Universal Symbol of the Divine Presence:
http://www.firebirdvideos.com/transfiguration.htm
read on: http://orderofcenturions.org/documents/transfiguration.html
A great resource on the web with some very nice Icons is this essay:
THE SYMBOLISM OF THE SKÉNÉ ENTITLED: "The Skéné — A Universal Symbol of the Divine Presence:
http://www.firebirdvideos.com/transfiguration.htm
2004/08/05
Constantine's Army Prayer
Emperor Constantine ca 320
We know Thou art God alone;
we recognize in Thee our king.
We call on Thee for aid.
From thee we receive victory,
through thee we are made greater than our enemies.
We recognize thy grace in present blessings
and hope on Thee for the future.
We all beseech Thee, we implore Thee
to preserve our king Constantine
and his pious sons safe and victorious to the end or our days.
Constantine, the first Christian ruler - emperor of the Roman Empire, encouraged his troops to adopt Christianity. He made Sunday a day of rest and requested his soldiers to say this prayer. Whenever in the field with his legions, Constantine set up a portable chapel. He prayed regularly, and before major engagements. He had 50 chosen legionaries as the color guard around the Labarum (a golden spear with a crosspiece forming a cross, from which hung a purple cloth with the images of himself and his sons, surmounted with a golden wreath and the chi-rho). Constantine's military brilliance and devotion to God inspired his legions to victory after victory over pagan forces beginning at Milvian Bridge outside of Rome in October 312 until his death.
.
source MacMullen, Ramsey; Contantine, 1969
Visit the Order at www.OrderofCenturions.org
2004/08/01
The Word of a Warrior
A Centurion Salute to Jenny Rosania and the In Touch Ministries for a good article, The Word of a Warrior, on the Centurion at Calvary. Her meditation is thought provoking. The site also has a nice watercolor image of the Centurion looking upward. See it here:
http://www.intouch.org/myintouch/mighty/centurion_36794057.html
2004/07/31
Beware of False Prophets
The Eighth Sunday after Trinity
In the Gospel of St Matthew beginning in the vii chapter and 15th verse, Jesus told us to "beware of false prophets". Today we hear a lot of different things from clerics about what is right and what isn't. What is needful and what is to come. How is one to know who is the false prophet and what doctrine is right?
St. Paul instructed Timothy to teach only that which was doctrinally sound [Ti 2:1] and that the Scripture was profitable for doctrine and teaching [Ti 3:16]. How can one tell what is sound doctrine? How can one know a true prophet? Recently a friend addressed this problem in a Bible study on Genesis. He advised his listeners not to take his word, but to test it by the Word of God. He then reminded us of the saints in Berea who "were more noble... in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so" [Acts 17:11]. Let us be so wise and noble that we might cling to that which is True and not be deceived by false prophets and false doctrines. Let us also watch and take care before we stray from traditional teachings, for he also said, "ye shall know them by their fruits".
Visit the Order at www.OrderofCenturions.org
The Eighth Sunday after Trinity
In the Gospel of St Matthew beginning in the vii chapter and 15th verse, Jesus told us to "beware of false prophets". Today we hear a lot of different things from clerics about what is right and what isn't. What is needful and what is to come. How is one to know who is the false prophet and what doctrine is right?
St. Paul instructed Timothy to teach only that which was doctrinally sound [Ti 2:1] and that the Scripture was profitable for doctrine and teaching [Ti 3:16]. How can one tell what is sound doctrine? How can one know a true prophet? Recently a friend addressed this problem in a Bible study on Genesis. He advised his listeners not to take his word, but to test it by the Word of God. He then reminded us of the saints in Berea who "were more noble... in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so" [Acts 17:11]. Let us be so wise and noble that we might cling to that which is True and not be deceived by false prophets and false doctrines. Let us also watch and take care before we stray from traditional teachings, for he also said, "ye shall know them by their fruits".
Visit the Order at www.OrderofCenturions.org
2004/07/28
Christians - A CLEAR AND PRESENT DANGER?
Robert Reich, former Sec. of Labor under Clinton, said,
"The true battle will be between modern civilization and anti-modernists; between those who believe in the primacy of the individual and those who believe that human beings owe their allegiance and identity to a higher authority" (read those who Fear God) . He calls believers "A CLEAR AND PRESENT DANGER"
Please see critique by David Virturehttp://www.virtuosityonline.org/portal/modules/news/article.php?storyid=1065
This attitude is not limited. I am reminded of a recent remark by Ms. Linda Ronstandt who said, "It's a real conflict for me when I go to a concert and find out somebody in the audience is a Republican or fundamental Christian. It can cloud my enjoyment. I'd rather not know." http://www.worldnetdaily.com/news/article.asp?ARTICLE_ID=39542
The rhetoric against the Church [and God] is broad and intensifying.
Church Vigilant
IN HOC SIGNO VINCES!
Visit the Order at www.OrderofCenturions.org
Robert Reich, former Sec. of Labor under Clinton, said,
"The true battle will be between modern civilization and anti-modernists; between those who believe in the primacy of the individual and those who believe that human beings owe their allegiance and identity to a higher authority" (read those who Fear God) . He calls believers "A CLEAR AND PRESENT DANGER"
Please see critique by David Virturehttp://www.virtuosityonline.org/portal/modules/news/article.php?storyid=1065
This attitude is not limited. I am reminded of a recent remark by Ms. Linda Ronstandt who said, "It's a real conflict for me when I go to a concert and find out somebody in the audience is a Republican or fundamental Christian. It can cloud my enjoyment. I'd rather not know." http://www.worldnetdaily.com/news/article.asp?ARTICLE_ID=39542
The rhetoric against the Church [and God] is broad and intensifying.
Church Vigilant
IN HOC SIGNO VINCES!
Visit the Order at www.OrderofCenturions.org
2004/07/27
CAMILLUS of Lellis
As July closes we should pause to remember the life of
a Centurion whose memorial falls on 14 July.
In the sick he saw the person of Christ. His reverence
in their presence was as a great as if he were really
and truly in the presence of his Lord.
Son of a military officer who had served both for
Naples and France. His mother died when he was very
young. Spent his youth as a soldier, fighting for the
Venetians against the Turks, and then for Naples.
Reported as a large individual, perhaps as tall as
6'6", and powerfully built, but suffered all his life
from abscesses on his feet. A gambling addict, he lost
so much he had to take a job working construction on a
building belonging to the Capuchins; they converted
him.
He entered the Capuchin noviate three times, but a
nagging leg injury, received while fighting the Turks,
each time forced him to give up. He went to Rome for
medical treatment where Saint Philip Neri became his
priest and confessor. He moved into San Giacomo
Hospital for the incurable, and eventually became its
administrator. Lacking education, he began to study
with children when he was 32 years old. Priest.
Founded the Congregation of the Servants of the Sick
(the Camellians) who, naturally, care for the sick
both in hospital and home. The order expanded with
houses in several countries. Camillus honored the sick
as living images of Christ, and hoped that the service
he gave them did penance for his wayward youth.
Reported to have the gifts of miraculous healing and
prophecy.
Source:
http://www.catholic-forum.com/saints/saintc09.htm
We are adding Camillus to the Order's pages.
=====
Mark S. Carroll
__________________________________
Do you Yahoo!?
Yahoo! Mail - 50x more storage than other providers!
http://promotions.yahoo.com/new_mail
a Centurion whose memorial falls on 14 July.
In the sick he saw the person of Christ. His reverence
in their presence was as a great as if he were really
and truly in the presence of his Lord.
Son of a military officer who had served both for
Naples and France. His mother died when he was very
young. Spent his youth as a soldier, fighting for the
Venetians against the Turks, and then for Naples.
Reported as a large individual, perhaps as tall as
6'6", and powerfully built, but suffered all his life
from abscesses on his feet. A gambling addict, he lost
so much he had to take a job working construction on a
building belonging to the Capuchins; they converted
him.
He entered the Capuchin noviate three times, but a
nagging leg injury, received while fighting the Turks,
each time forced him to give up. He went to Rome for
medical treatment where Saint Philip Neri became his
priest and confessor. He moved into San Giacomo
Hospital for the incurable, and eventually became its
administrator. Lacking education, he began to study
with children when he was 32 years old. Priest.
Founded the Congregation of the Servants of the Sick
(the Camellians) who, naturally, care for the sick
both in hospital and home. The order expanded with
houses in several countries. Camillus honored the sick
as living images of Christ, and hoped that the service
he gave them did penance for his wayward youth.
Reported to have the gifts of miraculous healing and
prophecy.
Source:
http://www.catholic-forum.com/saints/saintc09.htm
We are adding Camillus to the Order's pages.
=====
Mark S. Carroll
__________________________________
Do you Yahoo!?
Yahoo! Mail - 50x more storage than other providers!
http://promotions.yahoo.com/new_mail
2004/07/24
I have compassion on the multitude
Homily for the Seventh Sunday after Trinity
LORD of all power and might, who art the author and giver of all good things; Graft in our hearts the love of thy Name, increase in us true religion, nourish us with all goodness, and of thy great mercy keep us in the same; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
READINGS BELOW: Romans vi. 19 & St. Mark viii. 1
Jesus had compassion on the multitude, and his compassion serves as an example for us. He wanted to feed those who had gathered to hear his Word. They had listened attentively for three days without eating -- perhaps so engrossed in the message of love and salvation that they had little or no desire to eat. What kind of a teacher was Jesus that 4,000 men would remain for three days without food transfixed on his words? The answer is obvious; he was God incarnate. His followers did not quite understand this, but they perceived that he was a man of God. They perceived also that he had a love and compassion for them that had not been seen in Israel before. Certainly the Pharisees, Sadducees, scribes and priests had not shown this kind of love to the people.
Jesus demonstrated his authority through miracles. On this occasion he fed the multitude from only seven loaves of bread. Seven is a key number because it represents perfection and completion. In this and on similar occasions where Jesus miraculously fed the multitudes, he provided a model for the Church's Communion of the Saints. It is a communion open to everyone who abides in Jesus. It is a supper where there is always more than enough for everyone - and all leave satisfied. It is a meal where Jesus himself feeds us. It is a gathering that acts to unify all those who share the meal. It represents the assembly of the all faithful Christians under one authority --- Jesus Christ. It is a mystery that endures through the ages.
The early Christians adopted the symbol of the one loaf to represent the Church and its Communion. Bread was the staple for the people. It represented subsistence and physical wellbeing. It was the staple for the Roman soldier as well, whose daily ration consisted of loaf of bread. I remember in my youth the commercials for Roman Meal Bread, and the image of the legionary saying that he could walk and fight all day on the one loaf. For the Church, the loaf symbolized spiritual subsistence. Through the symbolism of the loaf, the people recalled the Gospel feeding stories. The stories themselves conveyed the essential truth of the Gospel -- Jesus desires to feed us with that which will sustain us through eternity -- his Word and his Body and Blood in the Lord's Supper. Jesus said, "I am the living bread which came down from Heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live forever" [Jn 6:51].
Throughout the Gospels there are stories of Jesus eating and teaching. Just as we physically require food daily, our communion with Christ and other faithful Christians provides us with spiritual sustenance. Our participation week by week on the Lord's Day, gathering to hear the Word, keeps our focus on the corporate nature of the Church and its worship. Our service includes the Word, praise in psalms and hymns, teaching, and for most Christians the Lord's Supper. Our gathering helps us to understand how we are interrelated. It represents the Communion of the Saints in a very physical way as millions of people in the Church Militant are fed at the Lord's Table. By feeding on him regularly, we are refreshed and renewed. As St. Paul said in today's epistle: "The gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." The gift of God is freely given. It is given because of his great love and compassion for us. It is the love feast of the Lord, and represents life eternal and triumph over sin and death.
In following Jesus, we are called to compassion; that is our Christian duty. He asks us to treat each one as our neighbor - exercising forgiveness, mercy, and love. He calls us to be hospitable and considerate, especially of those who have the least. As we go forth, let us be alert to those who have need, and seek opportunities to serve God through our compassion for others. Amen
Romans vi. 19
I SPEAK after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh: for as ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity; even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness. For when ye were the servants of sin, ye were free from righteousness. What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death. But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
St. Mark viii. 1
IN those days the multitude being very great, and having nothing to eat, Jesus called his disciples unto him, and saith unto them, I have compassion on the multitude, because they have now been with me three days, and have nothing to eat: and if I send them away fasting to their own houses, they will faint by the way: for divers of them came from far. And his disciples answered him, From whence can a man satisfy these men with bread here in the wilderness? And he asked them, How many loaves have ye? And they said, Seven. And he commanded the people to sit down on the ground: and he took the seven loaves, and gave thanks, and brake, and gave to his disciples to set before them; and they did set them before the people. And they had a few small fishes: and he blessed, and commanded to set them also before them. So they did eat, and were filled: and they took up of the broken meat that was left seven baskets. And they that had eaten were about four thousand: and he sent them away.
Scripture from 1928 Book of Common Prayer
Visit the Order at www.OrderofCenturions.org
Homily for the Seventh Sunday after Trinity
LORD of all power and might, who art the author and giver of all good things; Graft in our hearts the love of thy Name, increase in us true religion, nourish us with all goodness, and of thy great mercy keep us in the same; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
READINGS BELOW: Romans vi. 19 & St. Mark viii. 1
Jesus had compassion on the multitude, and his compassion serves as an example for us. He wanted to feed those who had gathered to hear his Word. They had listened attentively for three days without eating -- perhaps so engrossed in the message of love and salvation that they had little or no desire to eat. What kind of a teacher was Jesus that 4,000 men would remain for three days without food transfixed on his words? The answer is obvious; he was God incarnate. His followers did not quite understand this, but they perceived that he was a man of God. They perceived also that he had a love and compassion for them that had not been seen in Israel before. Certainly the Pharisees, Sadducees, scribes and priests had not shown this kind of love to the people.
Jesus demonstrated his authority through miracles. On this occasion he fed the multitude from only seven loaves of bread. Seven is a key number because it represents perfection and completion. In this and on similar occasions where Jesus miraculously fed the multitudes, he provided a model for the Church's Communion of the Saints. It is a communion open to everyone who abides in Jesus. It is a supper where there is always more than enough for everyone - and all leave satisfied. It is a meal where Jesus himself feeds us. It is a gathering that acts to unify all those who share the meal. It represents the assembly of the all faithful Christians under one authority --- Jesus Christ. It is a mystery that endures through the ages.
The early Christians adopted the symbol of the one loaf to represent the Church and its Communion. Bread was the staple for the people. It represented subsistence and physical wellbeing. It was the staple for the Roman soldier as well, whose daily ration consisted of loaf of bread. I remember in my youth the commercials for Roman Meal Bread, and the image of the legionary saying that he could walk and fight all day on the one loaf. For the Church, the loaf symbolized spiritual subsistence. Through the symbolism of the loaf, the people recalled the Gospel feeding stories. The stories themselves conveyed the essential truth of the Gospel -- Jesus desires to feed us with that which will sustain us through eternity -- his Word and his Body and Blood in the Lord's Supper. Jesus said, "I am the living bread which came down from Heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live forever" [Jn 6:51].
Throughout the Gospels there are stories of Jesus eating and teaching. Just as we physically require food daily, our communion with Christ and other faithful Christians provides us with spiritual sustenance. Our participation week by week on the Lord's Day, gathering to hear the Word, keeps our focus on the corporate nature of the Church and its worship. Our service includes the Word, praise in psalms and hymns, teaching, and for most Christians the Lord's Supper. Our gathering helps us to understand how we are interrelated. It represents the Communion of the Saints in a very physical way as millions of people in the Church Militant are fed at the Lord's Table. By feeding on him regularly, we are refreshed and renewed. As St. Paul said in today's epistle: "The gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." The gift of God is freely given. It is given because of his great love and compassion for us. It is the love feast of the Lord, and represents life eternal and triumph over sin and death.
In following Jesus, we are called to compassion; that is our Christian duty. He asks us to treat each one as our neighbor - exercising forgiveness, mercy, and love. He calls us to be hospitable and considerate, especially of those who have the least. As we go forth, let us be alert to those who have need, and seek opportunities to serve God through our compassion for others. Amen
Romans vi. 19
I SPEAK after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh: for as ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity; even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness. For when ye were the servants of sin, ye were free from righteousness. What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death. But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
St. Mark viii. 1
IN those days the multitude being very great, and having nothing to eat, Jesus called his disciples unto him, and saith unto them, I have compassion on the multitude, because they have now been with me three days, and have nothing to eat: and if I send them away fasting to their own houses, they will faint by the way: for divers of them came from far. And his disciples answered him, From whence can a man satisfy these men with bread here in the wilderness? And he asked them, How many loaves have ye? And they said, Seven. And he commanded the people to sit down on the ground: and he took the seven loaves, and gave thanks, and brake, and gave to his disciples to set before them; and they did set them before the people. And they had a few small fishes: and he blessed, and commanded to set them also before them. So they did eat, and were filled: and they took up of the broken meat that was left seven baskets. And they that had eaten were about four thousand: and he sent them away.
Scripture from 1928 Book of Common Prayer
Visit the Order at www.OrderofCenturions.org
2004/07/23
Centurio Epistula – Communion and Affirming Faith in Public Lives
A Salute and Thumbs Up to those bishops that have
taken action to prevent elected officials who support
immoral behavior in their official capacity (i.e.,
voting) from taking Holy Communion (HC).
See the article Catholics Must Affirm Their Faith in
Their Public Lives here
http://www.tfp.org/tfc/bishops_and_communion.htm
Personal Musings
1. It disturbed many that the Roman Catholic (RC)
American Bishops Conference decided to leave the
decision to refuse HC up to individual bishops that
was certainly not the message from Rome. Rome
identified public support of immoral practices as
behavior that should prevent reception of HC. It is
not clear that all the bishops understood that during
the conference. They did not read the actual letter,
but rather had it explained to them. They now,
however, know the wording of the letter and should
understand the position of their primate.
2. Many were disturbed when one RC American bishop
announced that the decision in his diocese must rest
with the individual communicant. Certainly each one of
us is responsible to examine ourselves and to repent
and confess before receiving HC (1Cor 11:28) Yet, a
minister still has the responsibility to speak to
those seeking HC if he knows that the communicant is
living a notorious life, has wronged a brother,
harbors hatred for a brother, or is in doing anything
that precludes reception in the eyes of the Church.
Leaving the decision up to the individual communicant
is to renege on a sacred responsibility and does a
disservice to their clerical office. As Archbishop
Myers in the article points out, this form of HC
discipline has been a function of the overseers and
elders since the earliest days (see quote from St.
Justin Martyr - ca167 AD.)
3. The Order [of Centurions] was established as an
association of Christians to resist the corruption and
error found in the world. It sought to guard the
simple Apostolic Faith as had been formulated in the
Early Church and was articulated in the early
statements of belief and Scripture, to encourage the
practice of a simple, ancient form of worship; and
encourage members to live by the plain Word of
Scripture. This quote is from our History page on the
web. The RC bishops featured in this article are using
their authority to control the HC and discipline
communicants in resisting many errors and evils, and
are taking the right actions in guarding the historic
apostolic faith and morals.
4. It takes courage for these individual RC bishop to
“do the Right thing” in the face of a great deal of
criticism and possible loss of membership. They,
however, Fear God - not man. We salute them. May they
Stand Firm for what is Right.
5. I pray that all churches might critically examine
their responsibility to exercise discipline in the HC.
May they remember the words of Joshua, Thus saith the
Lord God of Israel . . . choose you this day whom ye will
serve but as for me and my house, we will serve the
LORD [Jos 24:15]
msc
taken action to prevent elected officials who support
immoral behavior in their official capacity (i.e.,
voting) from taking Holy Communion (HC).
See the article Catholics Must Affirm Their Faith in
Their Public Lives here
http://www.tfp.org/tfc/bishops_and_communion.htm
Personal Musings
1. It disturbed many that the Roman Catholic (RC)
American Bishops Conference decided to leave the
decision to refuse HC up to individual bishops that
was certainly not the message from Rome. Rome
identified public support of immoral practices as
behavior that should prevent reception of HC. It is
not clear that all the bishops understood that during
the conference. They did not read the actual letter,
but rather had it explained to them. They now,
however, know the wording of the letter and should
understand the position of their primate.
2. Many were disturbed when one RC American bishop
announced that the decision in his diocese must rest
with the individual communicant. Certainly each one of
us is responsible to examine ourselves and to repent
and confess before receiving HC (1Cor 11:28) Yet, a
minister still has the responsibility to speak to
those seeking HC if he knows that the communicant is
living a notorious life, has wronged a brother,
harbors hatred for a brother, or is in doing anything
that precludes reception in the eyes of the Church.
Leaving the decision up to the individual communicant
is to renege on a sacred responsibility and does a
disservice to their clerical office. As Archbishop
Myers in the article points out, this form of HC
discipline has been a function of the overseers and
elders since the earliest days (see quote from St.
Justin Martyr - ca167 AD.)
3. The Order [of Centurions] was established as an
association of Christians to resist the corruption and
error found in the world. It sought to guard the
simple Apostolic Faith as had been formulated in the
Early Church and was articulated in the early
statements of belief and Scripture, to encourage the
practice of a simple, ancient form of worship; and
encourage members to live by the plain Word of
Scripture. This quote is from our History page on the
web. The RC bishops featured in this article are using
their authority to control the HC and discipline
communicants in resisting many errors and evils, and
are taking the right actions in guarding the historic
apostolic faith and morals.
4. It takes courage for these individual RC bishop to
“do the Right thing” in the face of a great deal of
criticism and possible loss of membership. They,
however, Fear God - not man. We salute them. May they
Stand Firm for what is Right.
5. I pray that all churches might critically examine
their responsibility to exercise discipline in the HC.
May they remember the words of Joshua, Thus saith the
Lord God of Israel . . . choose you this day whom ye will
serve but as for me and my house, we will serve the
LORD [Jos 24:15]
msc
2004/07/22
Centurio Epistula - Reading Scripture
One rule of the Order is to "Meditate on Holy
Scripture". This of course necessitating that one read
the Scriptures. In an article entitled "The Demise of
Literature" concerning the very drastic decline in
reading in America (and which probably affects the
entire Western World), George Will offers this
illustration of Christians in combat some 64 years
ago,
In 1940 a British officer on Dunkirk beach sent
London a three-word message: ``But if not.'' It was
instantly recognized as from the Book of Daniel. When
Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego are commanded to
worship a golden image or perish, they defiantly
reply: ``Our God who we serve is able to deliver us
from the burning fiery furnace, and He will deliver us
out of thine hand, O king. But if not, be it known
unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods.
...''
Britain then still had the cohesion of a common
culture of shared reading. That cohesion enabled
Britain to stay the hand of Hitler, a fact pertinent
to today's new age of barbarism.
I must admit that I did not recognize the three-word
message, and I doubt that many of my generation would
unfortunately. I, and perhaps many of you, am
influenced by of a vastly changing Western World whose
worldview is often shaped by television, advertising,
and entertainment; but not by Scripture or classical
reading. Without this common base of good literature
and the Truth in Scripture, we are faced with
generations who do not have a foundation based on the
Truth of God's Word, and who lack the insight
necessary so they may "beware of false prophets" [did
you recongnize it from Gospel for the 8th Sunday after
Trinity, BCP, St. Matthew vii. 15
(http://orderofcenturions.org/documents/trinity8.html)]
See the full Geore Will article here:
http://www.townhall.com/columnists/georgewill/gw20040722.shtml
msc
Scripture". This of course necessitating that one read
the Scriptures. In an article entitled "The Demise of
Literature" concerning the very drastic decline in
reading in America (and which probably affects the
entire Western World), George Will offers this
illustration of Christians in combat some 64 years
ago,
In 1940 a British officer on Dunkirk beach sent
London a three-word message: ``But if not.'' It was
instantly recognized as from the Book of Daniel. When
Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego are commanded to
worship a golden image or perish, they defiantly
reply: ``Our God who we serve is able to deliver us
from the burning fiery furnace, and He will deliver us
out of thine hand, O king. But if not, be it known
unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods.
...''
Britain then still had the cohesion of a common
culture of shared reading. That cohesion enabled
Britain to stay the hand of Hitler, a fact pertinent
to today's new age of barbarism.
I must admit that I did not recognize the three-word
message, and I doubt that many of my generation would
unfortunately. I, and perhaps many of you, am
influenced by of a vastly changing Western World whose
worldview is often shaped by television, advertising,
and entertainment; but not by Scripture or classical
reading. Without this common base of good literature
and the Truth in Scripture, we are faced with
generations who do not have a foundation based on the
Truth of God's Word, and who lack the insight
necessary so they may "beware of false prophets" [did
you recongnize it from Gospel for the 8th Sunday after
Trinity, BCP, St. Matthew vii. 15
(http://orderofcenturions.org/documents/trinity8.html)]
See the full Geore Will article here:
http://www.townhall.com/columnists/georgewill/gw20040722.shtml
msc
2004/07/17
Centurio Epistula - AME on Same Sex Marriage
A SALUTE and THUMBS UP to the African Methodist
Episcopal Church AME for "Fearing God and doing what
is Right"
At their meeting this denomination (2.5 million
strong) voted unanimously against Same Sex Marriages
in their churches. See World Magazine article " Black
and Right" here
http://www.worldmag.com/newsite/content/subscriber/displayarticle.cfm?id=9425
Concerning the quest for homosexual "rights" compared
with the Civil Rights movement, it quoted an article
by "Star Parker, a black evangelical, in a column for
Scripps Howard News Service. She says that the main
reason is that the civil-rights movement depended on
objective moral truth. Homosexual marriage, on the
contrary, depends on a rejection of objective moral
truth. Amen
Episcopal Church AME for "Fearing God and doing what
is Right"
At their meeting this denomination (2.5 million
strong) voted unanimously against Same Sex Marriages
in their churches. See World Magazine article " Black
and Right" here
http://www.worldmag.com/newsite/content/subscriber/displayarticle.cfm?id=9425
Concerning the quest for homosexual "rights" compared
with the Civil Rights movement, it quoted an article
by "Star Parker, a black evangelical, in a column for
Scripps Howard News Service. She says that the main
reason is that the civil-rights movement depended on
objective moral truth. Homosexual marriage, on the
contrary, depends on a rejection of objective moral
truth. Amen
2004/07/16
Reconciliation Before Communion/Offering
Be reconciled to thy brother
From the Homily of the Sixth Sunday After Trininty Gospel of Matthew v. 20
The ancient liturgy as recorded by Justin Martyr included a form for the functions that Jesus taught in the Gospel reading. We read in the Apostlic Teaching and Constitution" that the Prayers included a confession, and absolution was assured before one presented themselves and their gifts. After the Prayers, there was a time for the exchange of the Peace before the Communion of the faithful.
The Order of Centurions, and many churches, use this ancient form. Regardless of what form your congregation may use, before presenting yourself for Communion, ensure that you examine yourself. Recognize where you have fallen short of the righteousness to which Jesus calls us. Repent and confess your sins to God and be assured of his forgiveness. Reconcile with your neighbor if needed, and exchange the Peace of God with your neighbors. Come to God's altar with the assurance that through Jesus you are forgiven and cleansed of all unrighteousness, and partake of the Body and Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ which was given and shed for you and for many for the remission of sins.
Visit the Order at www.OrderofCenturions.org
From the Homily of the Sixth Sunday After Trininty Gospel of Matthew v. 20
The ancient liturgy as recorded by Justin Martyr included a form for the functions that Jesus taught in the Gospel reading. We read in the Apostlic Teaching and Constitution" that the Prayers included a confession, and absolution was assured before one presented themselves and their gifts. After the Prayers, there was a time for the exchange of the Peace before the Communion of the faithful.
The Order of Centurions, and many churches, use this ancient form. Regardless of what form your congregation may use, before presenting yourself for Communion, ensure that you examine yourself. Recognize where you have fallen short of the righteousness to which Jesus calls us. Repent and confess your sins to God and be assured of his forgiveness. Reconcile with your neighbor if needed, and exchange the Peace of God with your neighbors. Come to God's altar with the assurance that through Jesus you are forgiven and cleansed of all unrighteousness, and partake of the Body and Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ which was given and shed for you and for many for the remission of sins.
Visit the Order at www.OrderofCenturions.org
2004/07/12
Gods and Liberals
Gods and Liberals
I thought you might appreciate this Ann Coulter quote
that I got from the federalist.com newsletter:
"Conservatives believe man was created in God's image,
while liberals believe they are gods. All of the
behavioral tics of the liberals proceed from their
godless belief that they can murder the unborn because
they, the liberals, are themselves gods. They try to
forcibly create 'equality' through affirmative action
and wealth redistribution because they are gods. They
flat-out lie, with no higher power to constrain them,
because they are gods. They adore pornography and the
mechanization of sex because man is just an animal,
and they are gods. They revere the UN and not the U.S.
because they aren't Americans -- they are gods." --Ann
Coulter
Thought:
Ms. Coulter's quote seems to me to describe to a great
extent Secular Humanism - I believe it is certainly to
be found more often in the liberal camp. Perhaps at
the radical level this is the essence of the emerging
"civil war" in culture and polarization we are seeing
... the essential question might be: "do you believe
in an Objective Right that comes from God, or do you
believe that 'right' is relative and a function of
what the people (powers) define as "right"?
I am reminded of the Original Sin "when you eat of it
your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God"
[Gen 3:4]
I thought you might appreciate this Ann Coulter quote
that I got from the federalist.com newsletter:
"Conservatives believe man was created in God's image,
while liberals believe they are gods. All of the
behavioral tics of the liberals proceed from their
godless belief that they can murder the unborn because
they, the liberals, are themselves gods. They try to
forcibly create 'equality' through affirmative action
and wealth redistribution because they are gods. They
flat-out lie, with no higher power to constrain them,
because they are gods. They adore pornography and the
mechanization of sex because man is just an animal,
and they are gods. They revere the UN and not the U.S.
because they aren't Americans -- they are gods." --Ann
Coulter
Thought:
Ms. Coulter's quote seems to me to describe to a great
extent Secular Humanism - I believe it is certainly to
be found more often in the liberal camp. Perhaps at
the radical level this is the essence of the emerging
"civil war" in culture and polarization we are seeing
... the essential question might be: "do you believe
in an Objective Right that comes from God, or do you
believe that 'right' is relative and a function of
what the people (powers) define as "right"?
I am reminded of the Original Sin "when you eat of it
your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God"
[Gen 3:4]
2004/07/08
ICHTHUS
The Fifth Sunday after Trinity Gospel in the 1928 BCP is Luke v.1 In it Jesus sent Peter for the big catch, and then told him:
This, and other Gospel accounts concerning fish, influenced the ancient Church. The Apostles as a group came to become known as "fishers of men", and Christians as "Pisciculi" the root word being fish. The fish was and still is a symbol, along with the cup and bread, of the Christian communion (At the Legion HQ, the communion paten is inscribed with a large Ichthus fish symbol.) The fish also became a security sign for persecuted Christians. One person meeting another would mark and arc - 1/2 of the fish, and the other Christian would complete the symbol - perhaps still a fitting mark for Christians even in this electronic age. The sign was often used to indicate where Christians would assemble. The fish became a symbol of Christianity and the Greek word Ichthus, meaning fish, an acrostic for a summary of the belief in Jesus: The letters were assigned as follows: Iesous (Jesus) CHristos (Christ) THeou (of God) Uiou (the Son) Soter (the Savior). Ichthus became a hidden form of confession for the Christian. In recent years this symbol and acrostic has seen a revival as a form public confession and identifying places where Christians assemble and work. The Ichthus may have formed the basis for the Jesus Prayer. In Eastern Church the Jesus prayer is the model for continuous prayer. In the Western churches, it is sometimes used in prayer with Rosary devotions. Centurions may also use the ancient acrostic as part of the liturgy of the daily Devotion: "Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior, have mercy on us".
msc )
sources included religioustolerance.org
Visit the Order at www.OrderofCenturions.org
The Fifth Sunday after Trinity Gospel in the 1928 BCP is Luke v.1 In it Jesus sent Peter for the big catch, and then told him:
from henceforth thou shalt catch men
This, and other Gospel accounts concerning fish, influenced the ancient Church. The Apostles as a group came to become known as "fishers of men", and Christians as "Pisciculi" the root word being fish. The fish was and still is a symbol, along with the cup and bread, of the Christian communion (At the Legion HQ, the communion paten is inscribed with a large Ichthus fish symbol.) The fish also became a security sign for persecuted Christians. One person meeting another would mark and arc - 1/2 of the fish, and the other Christian would complete the symbol - perhaps still a fitting mark for Christians even in this electronic age. The sign was often used to indicate where Christians would assemble. The fish became a symbol of Christianity and the Greek word Ichthus, meaning fish, an acrostic for a summary of the belief in Jesus: The letters were assigned as follows: Iesous (Jesus) CHristos (Christ) THeou (of God) Uiou (the Son) Soter (the Savior). Ichthus became a hidden form of confession for the Christian. In recent years this symbol and acrostic has seen a revival as a form public confession and identifying places where Christians assemble and work. The Ichthus may have formed the basis for the Jesus Prayer. In Eastern Church the Jesus prayer is the model for continuous prayer. In the Western churches, it is sometimes used in prayer with Rosary devotions. Centurions may also use the ancient acrostic as part of the liturgy of the daily Devotion: "Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior, have mercy on us".
msc )
sources included religioustolerance.org
Visit the Order at www.OrderofCenturions.org
2004/07/05
Centurio Epistula - Imprecatory Prayer
Centurions
I recommend the article by Pastor Giles at the link
below for your consideration and reflection on
"Imprecatory Prayer."
http://www.townhall.com/columnists/douggiles/dg20040703.shtml
One of my favorite movies is of General Patton - a
dedicated Episcopalian churchman and Soldier of
Prayer. Patton called upon his Chaplain on December 8,
1944 to publish an imprecatory prayer for good weather
and victory and this was distributed to every man in
the Army -- 250,000! On December 19-20 the prayer was
answered. As the Army moved north to relieve Bastogne,
there was an unexpected break in the weather that
lasted a week.
" Almighty and most merciful Father, we humbly beseech
Thee, of Thy great goodness, to restrain these
immoderate rains with which we have had to contend.
Grant us fair weather for Battle. Graciously hearken
to us as soldiers who call upon Thee that, armed with
Thy power, we may advance from victory to victory, and
crush the oppression and wickedness of our enemies and
establish Thy justice among men and nations."
Patton also told his Chaplain to get the troops and
chaplains into continuous prayer and directed so
officially. I highly recommend you see the entire
Patton Prayer story at this site:
http://www.pattonhq.com/prayer.html
Finally, I bid your prayers for the battle success of
our allied forces in Iraq so as to stop those evil men
who wish to destroy the peace, democracy, and freedom
we are trying to establish.
msc
=====
Mark S. Carroll
__________________________________
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I recommend the article by Pastor Giles at the link
below for your consideration and reflection on
"Imprecatory Prayer."
http://www.townhall.com/columnists/douggiles/dg20040703.shtml
One of my favorite movies is of General Patton - a
dedicated Episcopalian churchman and Soldier of
Prayer. Patton called upon his Chaplain on December 8,
1944 to publish an imprecatory prayer for good weather
and victory and this was distributed to every man in
the Army -- 250,000! On December 19-20 the prayer was
answered. As the Army moved north to relieve Bastogne,
there was an unexpected break in the weather that
lasted a week.
" Almighty and most merciful Father, we humbly beseech
Thee, of Thy great goodness, to restrain these
immoderate rains with which we have had to contend.
Grant us fair weather for Battle. Graciously hearken
to us as soldiers who call upon Thee that, armed with
Thy power, we may advance from victory to victory, and
crush the oppression and wickedness of our enemies and
establish Thy justice among men and nations."
Patton also told his Chaplain to get the troops and
chaplains into continuous prayer and directed so
officially. I highly recommend you see the entire
Patton Prayer story at this site:
http://www.pattonhq.com/prayer.html
Finally, I bid your prayers for the battle success of
our allied forces in Iraq so as to stop those evil men
who wish to destroy the peace, democracy, and freedom
we are trying to establish.
msc
=====
Mark S. Carroll
__________________________________
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2004/07/03
Fourth Sunday after Trinity
O GOD, the protector of all that trust in thee, without whom nothing is strong, nothing is holy; Increase and multiply upon us thy mercy; that, thou being our ruler and guide, we may so pass through things temporal, that we finally lose not the things eternal. Grant this, O heavenly Father, for the sake of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Romans viii. 18 & St. Luke vi. 36
Can the blind lead the blind?
"Can the blind lead the blind?" Jesus asks this rhetorical question in the context of his exhortation to the disciples to exercise mercy and forgiveness while reserving judgement and condemnation to God. The blind leaders were undoubtedly the religious leaders of the day who judged the condition of men and proclaimed them sinners, and yet failed to live up to God's standard. He said both shall fall, the leaders and those whom they led. Both are subject to condemnation because both go along life blindly. They fail to see the way God had laid out for them.
Jesus makes it plain however, that the blindness of the religious leaders is a much more serious matter than that of the people. Both are blind, but the leaders have a beam in their eye, while the people have a small speck. Then he calls them hypocrites, because they preach one thing and do another. They judge the people, and fail to recognize where they have fallen short of God's way. They condemn the sinners, while failing totally to perceive any shortcomings in their lives.
Jesus concludes this little sermon with the solution. Take the beam from their own eye first. The leaders must take a candid look at their own lives. What do they believe? How do they behave? What are their inner thoughts? How do they as men measure up to God's way? Then they must repent of their misdeeds and failures so as to model their lives after the perfection of the Master's. When that is done, they will have the clarity of vision to assist their brother to see the speck in their lives, the indentify those things that blind them and lead them astray, and to do something to correct it.
In the Church today, we are faced with many issues where the beliefs and conduct of the world clearly are in contravention to the Scriptures. In addressing these issues, we often hear very loudly from those who wish to continue leading their blind lives within the Church. These rebellious Christians quote our Lord saying that we should "judge not." Just this week my wife told me of her admiration for Dr. Ralph Stanley of Insight Ministry, and how she thought he approached the issue of judging in his televised sermons. She said Dr. Stanley often says, "It isn't I that say it, but the Bible." Dr. Stanley then proceeds to quote liberally from the Scriptures to demonstrate the lesson. That is the correct standard for us all - the Holy Scriptures. In the Order of Centurions, our Credo is prefaced with, "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness." We should look not to the customs of the world to determine what is right and wrong, what is sinful and what is not. No, we are called to measure by one standard - the Scriptures both in particulars and generally. Let us be careful too, that we do not read into the Scripture things that were not said. Let the plain Word of God stand as our beacon. Let each man walk focused on the Light of Jesus Christ. As the saying goes, "watch your own lane". Concern yourself first and foremost with your life and how it follows Christ's road to Salvation. Let the Scripture serve you and your neighbor for reproof, correction, and instruction. Be careful that you do not judge your brother unjustly -- St. Augustine's Prayer book lists the sin of Malice under Envy, one of the seven Mortal Sins of the historic Church. Malice includes ill-will, false accusations, slander, backbiting, and reading false motives into others' behaviors. Jesus said we would be judged for every careless word; so let us take today's admonition to heart. Let us search our lives and beliefs against the Scriptures; and strive to amend our lives using Christ's example of behavior, love, and mercy as our standard, Finally, as the collect today says, may God increase and multiply upon us his mercy and be our Guide to eternal salvation.
Hymn at cyberhymnal.org AWAKE, AWAKE TO LOVE AND WORK
___________
Romans viii. 18.
I RECKON that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God. For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope, because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now. And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body.
St. Luke vi. 36.
BE ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful. Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven: give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again. And he spake a parable unto them, Can the blind lead the blind? shall they not both fall into the ditch? The disciple is not above his master: but every one that is perfect shall be as his master. And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but perceivest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Either how canst thou say to thy brother, Brother, let me pull out the mote that is in thine eye, when thou thyself beholdest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Thou hypocrite, cast out first the beam out of thine own eye, and then shalt thou see clearly to pull out the mote that is in thy brother's eye.
Scripture from 1928 Book of Common Prayer
Visit the Order at www.OrderofCenturions.org
O GOD, the protector of all that trust in thee, without whom nothing is strong, nothing is holy; Increase and multiply upon us thy mercy; that, thou being our ruler and guide, we may so pass through things temporal, that we finally lose not the things eternal. Grant this, O heavenly Father, for the sake of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Romans viii. 18 & St. Luke vi. 36
Can the blind lead the blind?
"Can the blind lead the blind?" Jesus asks this rhetorical question in the context of his exhortation to the disciples to exercise mercy and forgiveness while reserving judgement and condemnation to God. The blind leaders were undoubtedly the religious leaders of the day who judged the condition of men and proclaimed them sinners, and yet failed to live up to God's standard. He said both shall fall, the leaders and those whom they led. Both are subject to condemnation because both go along life blindly. They fail to see the way God had laid out for them.
Jesus makes it plain however, that the blindness of the religious leaders is a much more serious matter than that of the people. Both are blind, but the leaders have a beam in their eye, while the people have a small speck. Then he calls them hypocrites, because they preach one thing and do another. They judge the people, and fail to recognize where they have fallen short of God's way. They condemn the sinners, while failing totally to perceive any shortcomings in their lives.
Jesus concludes this little sermon with the solution. Take the beam from their own eye first. The leaders must take a candid look at their own lives. What do they believe? How do they behave? What are their inner thoughts? How do they as men measure up to God's way? Then they must repent of their misdeeds and failures so as to model their lives after the perfection of the Master's. When that is done, they will have the clarity of vision to assist their brother to see the speck in their lives, the indentify those things that blind them and lead them astray, and to do something to correct it.
In the Church today, we are faced with many issues where the beliefs and conduct of the world clearly are in contravention to the Scriptures. In addressing these issues, we often hear very loudly from those who wish to continue leading their blind lives within the Church. These rebellious Christians quote our Lord saying that we should "judge not." Just this week my wife told me of her admiration for Dr. Ralph Stanley of Insight Ministry, and how she thought he approached the issue of judging in his televised sermons. She said Dr. Stanley often says, "It isn't I that say it, but the Bible." Dr. Stanley then proceeds to quote liberally from the Scriptures to demonstrate the lesson. That is the correct standard for us all - the Holy Scriptures. In the Order of Centurions, our Credo is prefaced with, "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness." We should look not to the customs of the world to determine what is right and wrong, what is sinful and what is not. No, we are called to measure by one standard - the Scriptures both in particulars and generally. Let us be careful too, that we do not read into the Scripture things that were not said. Let the plain Word of God stand as our beacon. Let each man walk focused on the Light of Jesus Christ. As the saying goes, "watch your own lane". Concern yourself first and foremost with your life and how it follows Christ's road to Salvation. Let the Scripture serve you and your neighbor for reproof, correction, and instruction. Be careful that you do not judge your brother unjustly -- St. Augustine's Prayer book lists the sin of Malice under Envy, one of the seven Mortal Sins of the historic Church. Malice includes ill-will, false accusations, slander, backbiting, and reading false motives into others' behaviors. Jesus said we would be judged for every careless word; so let us take today's admonition to heart. Let us search our lives and beliefs against the Scriptures; and strive to amend our lives using Christ's example of behavior, love, and mercy as our standard, Finally, as the collect today says, may God increase and multiply upon us his mercy and be our Guide to eternal salvation.
Hymn at cyberhymnal.org AWAKE, AWAKE TO LOVE AND WORK
___________
Romans viii. 18.
I RECKON that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God. For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope, because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now. And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body.
St. Luke vi. 36.
BE ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful. Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven: give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again. And he spake a parable unto them, Can the blind lead the blind? shall they not both fall into the ditch? The disciple is not above his master: but every one that is perfect shall be as his master. And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but perceivest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Either how canst thou say to thy brother, Brother, let me pull out the mote that is in thine eye, when thou thyself beholdest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Thou hypocrite, cast out first the beam out of thine own eye, and then shalt thou see clearly to pull out the mote that is in thy brother's eye.
Scripture from 1928 Book of Common Prayer
Visit the Order at www.OrderofCenturions.org
Independence Day
[July 4]
O ETERNAL God, through whose mighty power our fathers won their liberties of old; Grant, we beseech thee, that we and all the people of this land may have grace to maintain these liberties in righteousness and peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Deuteronomy x. 17 & St. Matthew v. 43
Thou shalt fear the LORD thy God; him shalt thou serve
Our founding fathers were men who feared the Lord and endeavored to follow the command in Deuteronomy, "Thou shalt fear the LORD thy God; him shalt thou serve." A review of the early documents of our nation clearly shows that the people revered the Lord and strove to ensure that the institutions they established to govern their temporal affairs were in accord with the tenets of the Bible. The result was a land where freedom and justice prevailed, a place where all manner of folk from around the world were attracted, and still are, as a land of freedom and opportunity.
We are faced with many challenges today including the control of our borders, illegal immigration, and terrorism from those who hate us for what we are. In all of this concern with our security, we are to remember God's command that we should exercise hospitality for the stranger, "Love ye therefore the stranger." We are to do this in the same way as the Father in Heaven loves the stranger and provides for him. Our Lord Jesus took this to even a higher level of perfection as he commanded us to, "Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; that ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven."
America has traditionally set the standard for justice and mercy. After WWII, our actions in Germany and Japan demonstrated the essence of the command that our Lord gave us. Today, in Iraq, we continue as a nation to try to obey this command by trying to rebuild the country and to work closely with the people to establish a land of freedom and justice, ruled by law, and tempered by mercy.
Finally, we should be concerned with those who wish to see God removed completely from everything public. We have seen the recent actions to take "God" out of oaths, the pledge, public symbols, and from buidings. The hymn below is our National Anthem, written as Francis Scott Key observed the English bombard Fort McHenry in Baltimore during the War of 1812. I recommend you take time to sing or read through all four verses. We normally just hear the first verse, but look closely at the fourth verse. In it you will find the source of the motto on our coins today, "In God is our Trust"
Hymn: National Anthem
---------
Deuteronomy x. 17
THE LORD your God is God of gods, and Lord of lords, a great God, a mighty, and a terrible, which regardeth not persons, nor taketh reward: he doth execute the judgment of the fatherless and widow, and loveth the stranger, in giving him food and raiment. Love ye therefore the stranger: for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt. Thou shalt fear the LORD thy God; him shalt thou serve, and to him shalt thou cleave, and swear by his name. He is thy praise, and he is thy God, that hath done for thee these great and terrible things, which thine eyes have seen.
St. Matthew v. 43
JESUS said, Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; that ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust. For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same? And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so? Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.
Scripture from 1928 Book of Common Prayer
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Visit the Order at www.OrderofCenturions.org
[July 4]
O ETERNAL God, through whose mighty power our fathers won their liberties of old; Grant, we beseech thee, that we and all the people of this land may have grace to maintain these liberties in righteousness and peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Deuteronomy x. 17 & St. Matthew v. 43
Thou shalt fear the LORD thy God; him shalt thou serve
Our founding fathers were men who feared the Lord and endeavored to follow the command in Deuteronomy, "Thou shalt fear the LORD thy God; him shalt thou serve." A review of the early documents of our nation clearly shows that the people revered the Lord and strove to ensure that the institutions they established to govern their temporal affairs were in accord with the tenets of the Bible. The result was a land where freedom and justice prevailed, a place where all manner of folk from around the world were attracted, and still are, as a land of freedom and opportunity.
We are faced with many challenges today including the control of our borders, illegal immigration, and terrorism from those who hate us for what we are. In all of this concern with our security, we are to remember God's command that we should exercise hospitality for the stranger, "Love ye therefore the stranger." We are to do this in the same way as the Father in Heaven loves the stranger and provides for him. Our Lord Jesus took this to even a higher level of perfection as he commanded us to, "Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; that ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven."
America has traditionally set the standard for justice and mercy. After WWII, our actions in Germany and Japan demonstrated the essence of the command that our Lord gave us. Today, in Iraq, we continue as a nation to try to obey this command by trying to rebuild the country and to work closely with the people to establish a land of freedom and justice, ruled by law, and tempered by mercy.
Finally, we should be concerned with those who wish to see God removed completely from everything public. We have seen the recent actions to take "God" out of oaths, the pledge, public symbols, and from buidings. The hymn below is our National Anthem, written as Francis Scott Key observed the English bombard Fort McHenry in Baltimore during the War of 1812. I recommend you take time to sing or read through all four verses. We normally just hear the first verse, but look closely at the fourth verse. In it you will find the source of the motto on our coins today, "In God is our Trust"
Hymn: National Anthem
---------
Deuteronomy x. 17
THE LORD your God is God of gods, and Lord of lords, a great God, a mighty, and a terrible, which regardeth not persons, nor taketh reward: he doth execute the judgment of the fatherless and widow, and loveth the stranger, in giving him food and raiment. Love ye therefore the stranger: for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt. Thou shalt fear the LORD thy God; him shalt thou serve, and to him shalt thou cleave, and swear by his name. He is thy praise, and he is thy God, that hath done for thee these great and terrible things, which thine eyes have seen.
St. Matthew v. 43
JESUS said, Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; that ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust. For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same? And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so? Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.
Scripture from 1928 Book of Common Prayer
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Visit the Order at www.OrderofCenturions.org
2004/07/01
Traditional Values Coalition
http://www.traditionalvalues.org/
Recommend this site for news, comments, and a place where you can take action. At the bottom of the Home Page is the Take Action Network sponsored by the coalition.
"The Take Action Network supports Pro-Christian, Pro-Family issues while strongly opposing issues that go against moral beliefs."
Visit the Order at www.OrderofCenturions.org
http://www.traditionalvalues.org/
Recommend this site for news, comments, and a place where you can take action. At the bottom of the Home Page is the Take Action Network sponsored by the coalition.
"The Take Action Network supports Pro-Christian, Pro-Family issues while strongly opposing issues that go against moral beliefs."
Visit the Order at www.OrderofCenturions.org
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