This month I want to write briefly about orthodoxy. After Vatican II it is not uncommon to meet catholics (religious or lay) who do not agree with the Pope and Magisterium of the Church. In the United States there was a massive show of dissent when Pope Paul VI issued the encyclical Humanae Vitae - On Human Life (July 25, 1968). We can now say how correct and prophetic that document was. When I was discerning my vocation, I often had to defend Church teaching from off-the-mark vocation directors. The situation is better today, but don't be naive. Fr. Groeschel recently wrote a great article on this topic (link below). We need to stop talking about right & left and start talking about right & wrong.

Our community is firmly dedicated to the Pope and Magisterium of the Catholic Church. St. Francis always wanted his sons to be faithful catholics (read Chapters 1 & 2 of the Rule). The Capuchins were traditionally known for their faithfulness in the past (read a moving letter written by St. Padre Pio to Pope Paul VI shortly before he died). We are enthusiastic about the leadership of the Pope! You will frequently see our friars reading and discussing the latest from the Holy Father. "He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches" (Rev 3:6). Jesus established the Papacy and Magisterium as the instrument by which the Holy Spirit guides the Church "into all truth" (John 16:13).

This dynamic carries over into other areas of life. There has been much news about Pope Benedict and the liturgy lately. We try to be faithful to praying the liturgy according to the rubrics of the Church. Admittedly, it is a confusing time for the liturgy (pic is of a Clown Mass). We strive for noble simplicity and simple nobility. From our Constitutions #67: "The celebration of the Eucharist is the ultimate expression of our faith and unity in Christ.  It is therefore celebrated daily with due reverence and devotion.  As with the Liturgy of the Hours, the Eucharistic liturgy is to be celebrated according to the proper liturgical norms established by the Church."