.
I recall having read about an American Catholic Church
10 years ago.
From what I recall, they had some prayers like their 'Creed'
online, and when you read it you just go.......... "What?"
It's a little bit like "Desiderata," by Max Ehrman.*
It was reminiscent of the Theosophical Society, which I ran
across while driving my car and family around the outskirts of
Santa Barbara and Ventura, CA about 20 years ago. I picked
up some of their literature and we checked out their "chapel"
on a hill, which was a most beautiful setting, really, if not
somewhat in a state of disrepair.
Years later I would find an outdoor 'chapel' in New Hampshire,
which was indicated by signs on the highway nearby, and going
there I found much the same kind of thing: universalist, One-
World, peace-and-brotherhood, with a hint of Fɾҽҽmαsσɳɾყ, but
nothing specifically Masonic as best I could tell. There was some
mention in the literature that Masons have used these facilities
for some of their ceremonies from time to time.
(Some advice for what to think about when you're on a sinking ship.)
*Desiderata
Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence.
As far as possible without surrender be on good terms with all persons.
Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even the dull and ignorant; they too have their story.
Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexations to the spirit.
If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain and bitter;
for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.
Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.
Keep interested in your career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.
Exercise caution in your business affairs; for the world is full of trickery.
But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals;
and everywhere life is full of heroism.
Be yourself.
Especially, do not feign affection.
Neither be critical about love; for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment it is as perennial as the grass.
Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth.
Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with imaginings.
Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness. Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself.
You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars;
you have a right to be here.
And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.
Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be,
and whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be careful. Strive to be happy.
© Max Ehrmann 1927
(And as the water covers your head, you go "blub, blub, blub.")
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Topic: The American Catholic Church (Read 1916 times)