Fr. Lombardi's interesting statement...(entr'acte between Dr. Miravalle videos)

Yesterday the Catholic Herald carried a report on Fr. Lombardi's recent interview with Vatican Radio, the main purpose of which seems to have been to make clear that the Vatican is not responsible for the charges being made to pilgrims during the Pope's visit. These are being made by the 'local Church' and have nothing to do with the Pope. Further, the ticketing system had to be introduced to satisfy the security demands of the British civil authorities. I've said repeatedly on this blog that I think security has been the driving force behind all the plans. And thank God for that.

But the interesting statement of Fr Lombardi, according to the Herald is as follows:
"He also stressed that restrictions on the media and on journalists were more demanding than they had been on other trips, but these did NOT DEPEND ON THE VATICAN OR ON THE LOCAL CHURCH. " (my caps.) Therefore one has to assume that these extra restrictions are being imposed by 'civil authorities'/Government. Of course they may just be to ensure the safety of the press corps.............One only prays that as a result, their hostility will be reduced rather than increased.

Some good news.
'Our Sunday Visitor' has just published a book that outlines the long battle of Benedict XVI against sexual abuse. Rome Reports (see link at very top of sidebar here) has a video and interview with its editor.

And Zenit has at least one heartening story today:
EWTN will televise the UK Papal visit, so you'll be relatively safe with them if you're worried about the BBC's possible lack of balance/ignorance in commentary. http://www.zenit.org/ Of course they may be fair and sensible and take the Vatican commentary. At least that way our National network will not be responsible for any infuriating gaffes.

Finally and most importantly the calender invites us to storm heaven with the help of Our Lady and many saints............
August
20 Saint Bernard Abbot and Doctor
21 Saint Pius X Pope
22 OUR LADY QUEEN AND MOTHER
23 Saint Rose of Lima Virgin
24 Saint Bartholomew Apostle
26 Saint Joseph of Calasanz Priest
27 Saint Monica
28 Saint Augustine of Hippo Bishop and Doctor
29 Saint John the Baptist Martyr
September
3 Saint Gregory the Great Pope and Doctor
8 THE BIRTHDAY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
13 Saint John Chrysostom Bishop and Doctor
15 OUR LADY OF SORROWS
16 SS Cornelius Pope and Martyr and Cyprian Bishop and Martyr
17 Saint Robert Bellarmine Bishop and Doctor
19 Saint Januarius Bishop and Martyr

And supremely on
14 THE EXALTATION OF THE HOLY CROSS