Fr. Dave's Page

Fr. Dave's Brief Biography

Fr. Dave's Longer Resume

In Sickness and in Health

This is my personal reflection written in April 2006 about my diagnosis of cancer, that has been in remission since then.

POLITICS:

The Catholic Church and the Obama Administration

This is a commentary on why 43 major Catholic institutions are suing the Obama administration over some provisions of Obamacare that threaten religious freedom.

Policies Not Persons

Political Guidelines at St. Paschal's Parish

Poverty and Populations

Reflections on Poverty and Population.

Why Do Radical Islamic People Hate America?

This article analyzes the causes and possible solutions to the problem of terrorism and religious violence in the world today.

Reflections Ten Years After 9/11

Ten years brings a lot of perspective and wisdom to the events of 9/11. Afghanistan and Iraq, and the prospects for peace in the whole Middle East.

Something Must Be Done!

Sermon on the day of September 11, 2001

Chilean Miner's Rescue and Respect Life View

A deeper meaning to trapped miners 2,000 feet below the surface.

Election 2008 and Catholics

Is Catholicism too focused on pro-life activities? This article discusses intelligent voting, separation of Church and State, Pro-Choice candidates receiving communion, and the deeper meaning of respect and tolerance for those who disagree.

Science and Faith: Jesus, Darwin, Einstein and Catholics

Brief explanation of the relationship between various scientific theories and Catholicism.

Pro-Life and Pro-Choice

A novel understanding of pro-life issues and how you can get involved.

The Iraq War: Can we send our troops with a good conscience?

This article was written prior to the Iraw war and describes a Catholic understanding of war and violence.

Immigration: The Price of Admission . . .

This article examines a fair, practical, and faith-filled solution to the immigration debate.

SCRIPTURE:

Latin Mass Flyer

Information regarding the celebration of Latin Mass at St. Paschal's

Old Testament Violence

Did God ever kill anyone? How do we understand Old Testament verses that seem to describe divine violence? This article is based on section 100-141 of the Cathecism of the Catholic Church.

Salvation Verses: Are we saved by faith or works

Some churches disagree with Cathoics on the place of faith and love in the plan of salvation. Are we saved by "works" or "faith" or "both"? This is a large collection of verses in the New Testament that sheds light on the balance of these ideas.

Top Ten Catholic Verses

This is a collection of some of the main scripture verses that support significant Catholic teachings.

CHURCH TEACHINGS:

Jesus: the CEO - Can He Fix the economy and save your job?

Reflections from Pope John Paul II and Pope Benedict on the world economy.

Why Does the Mass Change?

Who decides? What is the purpose of Mass?

Same Sex Couples & Marriage

Some thoughtful reflections on what Catholics believe about the issue of same sex couples and marriage.

The Passion: How does the death and resurrection of Jesus save us?

This article responds to the question, "Why did Jesus have to suffer and die in such a violent and dramatic way for our salvation?"

The Mass: "We would like to see Jesus"

This article is an understanding of what happens at mass and how the architecture of our Church helps our prayer.

End of Life Issues: The three faces of Easter

This article relates the death of Pope John Paul II and Terry Schiavo, (a "brain-dead" patient), and provides practical help to families with loved ones who are dying, in a coma, or vegetative state.

Divorce and Remarriage

This article helps us understand what our faith actually teaches about annulments and the possibilities of remarriage.

. . . . And Deliver Us From Evil

This is my brief reflection on the presence of evil in the world today.

The Child Abuse Crisis and the Church

This article, written in 2003, examines the crisis, how to understand it, and what should be done about it.

LA Archdiocese Lawsuit: A Gospel Settlement

This is my personal reflection on the lawsuit settlement of the LA Archdiocese.

Forgiving is not Forgetting

Forgiveness does not mean we instantly forget what happened. This article reveals the difference between forgiveness and healing, and how reconciliation is possible.

Reflections on Sandy Hook

Reflections on the tragic events that took place in Sandy Hook, Connecticut

MISCELLANEOUS:

Gossip and Rumors

A reflection on the nature of gossip and rumors and how to recognize a normal and healthy interest in other people from malicious gossip.

"The Passion of the Christ" - a Film Review

This is my review of the Mel Gibson film about the crucifixion of Jesus starring Jim Caviziel.

Finances and the Church: How Parish and Archdiocesan Finances Work

This article explains both in a clear and concise manner.

"Apocalypto", the film & Christmas

A brief article that compares the impact of Christianity on both the Mayan and Roman empires, as shown in "Apocalypto" and "The Passion of the Christ," as well as its impact on American culture today.

Pope John Paul II: Reflection on his life

This article was written the day of the announcement of the death of John Paul II.