Current Events and Faith - Jesus in the News

Mary has often been a stumbling block between different Christian denominations, but need she be today? She also straddles the religious traditions in a way no one else does: She is a Jewish mother, and yet there is more mention of her in the Muslim Quran than in the New Testament. Come and hear about Mary’s important role in the world today.

Our increasingly secular world tries diligently to expunge every trace of “Religion” to not offend anyone. But how many things in today’s world are "faith based" or have Christian origins? The Star-Spangled Banner and God Bless America, both under attack, remain in common use. People still make the Sign of the Cross unconsciously. Several of our popular American Holidays (Thanksgiving, etc.) remain a big part of our American Culture. Come take a fascinating tour of religious holidays continuing to thrive in our ever-evolving secular world. You’d be surprised at the origins of some, and gain insight as to why they continue.

Let's take a positive look at the Church's redeeming presence over the centuries which influences our everyday life of all people. Much of the art, literature, music, scientific inquiry, and law we encounter daily is the product of Catholic Christians pursuing Truth, Goodness, and Beauty encouraged by their faith in Christ.

Prior to leaving office in 1796, President George Washington gave us a 7,641-word Farewell Address. He warned us that our system of government is very dependent upon morality and trust. He affirmed that religion is the best way to create a moral society. Is the USA becoming more religious? Was Washington baptized a Catholic? Why is he painted on the ceiling of the U.S. Capitol Building amongst angels in heaven?

How is the Church of today the Church of the Apostles? We will discover the relation between what the Church teaches today and what the Apostles taught and what it means to say that Pope Francis is the successor of St. Peter.

Let’s discuss the circumstances that led to the controversy regarding Native Peoples in recent years, the consequences of the Mission era, and influencers from the Mexican Gold Rush, California Statehood, tourism, the relocation of the Ventura Padre Serra statue, as well as the cooperation achieved with City, Native, and Mission parish leadership. Additionally, a short clip of the soon-to-be released documentary currently titled “Junipero Serra and the California Natives,” will be shown.

Ask any question about any moral issue today. Immigration, sexuality, gender, war and peace. All questions welcome. This will be just like a theological press conference!

This session explores what it means to be a woman in today's culture. What does Sacred Scripture and the Church say about feminine identity, charisms, and walking together as missionary disciples? How can today's women of faith prayerfully listen, discern, and act to foster collaboration and mutual respect between men and women, live the Gospel, and contribute to the growth of the Church?