...the existential consequences of assuming Cartesian doubt, the method of modern philosophy, to its last consequences.
She's Here!
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Today has been one of those days you never forget. Not only has it been the opening day of the games of the 30th Olympiad in London, our capital city, hosting the games for an unprecedented third time, it has also, and for us, much more importantly, been the day our long dreamed of and anticipated and hoped for daughter, Mary Therese, was born. At 08:51 this morning she arrived after a great deal of prayer and nervousness. She is perfect, weighing in at 8lb & 1oz, with a little blond hair and just the hint of a curl. She represents so much for us: without doubt the answer of a deeply spoken prayer, but also the missing piece of our family. Mary is not Ruth, but we have no doubt that she will bring great healing to our family, each of us miss Ruth so much in so many ways. Mary Therese is also a sign of great blessing, and for this we are grateful. The timing is also auspicious, she joins us just after John's birthday-so she has her own special day- and just before Ruth's anniversary.
We look forward to introducing her to you all, but in the meantime, here are some pictures to enjoy!
Not long born, Lou admires her handiwork
Louise was unbelievable today. She is so amazing, such an incredible woman, I love her with every fibre and I feel so incredibly lucky to be her husband. She is an amazing mum, more than any man could wish for in a wife, and my very best friend ever in the world.
Father & Daughter
Her first trip—Ready to leave hospital
Meeting Auntie Norah and cousins Lizzie & Martha
With a proud big brother, Michael
With a delighted cousin—Lizzie
John who is excited to now be a big brother and no longer the youngest!
Meeting Nanny & Martha
Snoozing in safe hands with William.
"Naked I came from my mother's womb,
naked I shall return again.
The LORD Giveth, and the LORD taketh away.
Blessed be the name of the LORD."
—Job 1:21
Some of what I currently feel can be summed up like this:
And these two songs, which were my special songs about Ruth, and have pained me so much over the last three years, but suddenly, today I want to listen to them again:
Pat Buckley has posted a letter from a Salford priest giving the low down on what is going on in that diocese. I think it is really important because it is a report from the diocese, but also because if you pay attention to communications from the CCBEW you would think Bishop Arnold is the best bishop in the country! This despite the fact he is clearly seriously at odds with much of the Catholic faith and overly concerned with issues best described as mission creep. He advised the Catenian Association to drop "practicing Catholic" from its statutes and is obsessed with CAFOD and climate change, issues which might seem trendy, but in reality only diminish the Gospel. Arnold is chairman of CAFOD and approved the appointment of the current director who is clearly at odds with Catholic teaching . He also loves an "LGBTQI+ Mass" - more on some of that stuff here . To me he epitomises so many of the bishops: he likes the trappings and power but is very uncomfortable wit
This morning on BBC TV Sunday Morning Live there was a good debate inspired by Melinda Gates (who identifies as Catholic) comments about the pope potentially changing doctrine on contraception. The Catholic contributors were Fr Paddy McCafferty, Clare Short and Obianuju Ekeocha. I think they did really well. Uju's direction is very interesting and easily wrong foots those who want to impose western ideas of morality on Africans in an imperialistic way. Interesting that the presenter agrees with her on this. Fr Paddy gave a great account of his experience as a priest. He was compassionate, realistic and honest, while upholding the value and importance of the doctrine. Clare said she had experience of both ways and the Catholic way is better by far. I thought that was awesome! I especially liked her focus on equality and bringing the responsibility of both husband & wife into the discussion. Watch out for the bit where the other lady says "Pope Francis has ind
Mark, what beautiful photos! I am sure she will bring you all great joy.
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