RALPH HIMSL

27th Sunday in Ordinary Time
October 5, 2011

The English language and no doubt many languages have an expression that covers the trap implied in the words, "I don't mean to criticize, but . . ." The use of these words seeks forgiveness of those listening for what follows. I find myself about to step into that trap.

Today's Gospel plunges us into a serious discussion between Jesus and some Temple bigwigs, the chief priests and elders.

GORDON SELF

Alberta's new Distracted Driver Legislation came into effect Sept. 1. It is now illegal to use hand-held cell phones, text, manually input GPS data, read, write or engage in personal grooming while driving.

Alberta has one of the toughest laws in Canada, joining other provinces in clamping down on the growing trend of inattentive drivers behind the wheel.

SR. LOUISE ZDUNICH, NDC

Recently, I read a news brief that a cave in southwest France may house the Holy Grail.

What is the Holy Grail and why do people search for it?

Pope Benedict has named Italian Archbishop Giuseppe Leanza to be the new nuncio to the Czech Republic, transferring him from his post as ambassador to Ireland.

The Vatican has given the traditionalist Society of St. Pius X a formal "doctrinal preamble" listing several principles they must agree with in order to move toward full reconciliation with the Church.

While acknowledging that their primary job is not catechesis, Cardinal Daniel DiNardo urged young theologians to help educate their fellow young adults who are "hungry, starving for the word of God."

Father Frank Pavone, one of the most visible and vocal opponents of abortion in the U.S., has been suspended from active ministry outside the Diocese of Amarillo, Texas, over financial questions about his operation of Priests for Life.

The primate of the Traditional Anglican Communion in Australia said he left the Catholic priesthood years ago after being sexually abused as a seminarian and young priest in the 1960s and 1970s.

A bishop must help Catholics in his diocese learn to recognize the gifts the Holy Spirit has given them and place them at the service of the entire Church, Pope Benedict told new bishops.

The president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops is urging priests across the country to preach about "the terrible toll the current economic turmoil is taking on families and communities."