Dominicans dissociate from Fr Mark Montebello

Christian Sciberras

Jan 17th 2010, 22:39

"The bible versions I possess all preach respect to the house of God and that is what I will do."

And yet life goes on undisturbed living out the centuries of lies.

Dr Francis Saliba

Dec 4th 2009, 13:16

@ChristianSciberras

It was you and nobody else who invited me to stand up during Sunday mass and disturb the congregation by shouting; therefore, yes, I was expected by you to shout inanities solely on your behalf - and not on behalf of any bible! The bible versions I possess all preach respect to the house of God and that is what I will do.

Christian Sciberras

Dec 4th 2009, 12:26

"I cannot make head or tail of your comment. Being of sound mind I see no reason why I should take your advice and show disrespect towards the Sunday mass congregation by standing up and shouting some inanity on your behalf!"

On my behalf? What about the Bible? It BOASTS to say the TRUTH.
Where is the TRUTH? Is the Church* (and you) acting honestly by SHOUTING A PART of the truth?
What I'm saying is, many Maltese (especially the elderly) are Creationists just because someone keeps mentioning fictious/metapohrical entities (Adam and Eve) in a phyisical and realistic context.

The only thing YOU and the Maltese Church* are doing is citing half of the Bible, most of the time without knowing the consequences (of having a hald-educated country).
Talk of responsible behaviour.

* The Curia, which does not act on behalf of the Vatican/Pope but on it's own.

Dr Francis Saliba

Dec 2nd 2009, 08:46

@Joseph M Meli

St Gorg Preca does not appear in the Calendar of Saints for England, Wales and Scotland but he appears in the Missal of the Diocese of Malta. You may care to present your "arguments" in favour of St Gorg Preca being British and not Maltese to the respective authorities and let us know the result. Until then please permit us to consider St Gorg Preca as the first canonised Maltese Saint

Dr Francis Saliba

Dec 2nd 2009, 06:33

When the rulers of Malta were rapidly changing from the Knights to the French to the British the Maltese remained the same Maltese nationals of the same Maltese Islands throughout that period. The Maltese did not come into existence only after Independence day and they were referred to as a distinct Maltese race for the previous centuries! Passport details and citizenship qualifications would change but the individuals born here to generations of Maltese parents would remain the same Maltese inhabitants of these islands throughout the political upheavals.

Joseph M. Meli

Dec 1st 2009, 09:48

Guz,

Citzenship / Nationality is granted by a SOVREIGN STATE, when Dun George Preca was alive his Status was "BRITISH SUBJECT" !!

You can check this out at the Passport Office or at the British High Commission.

Do NOT confuse Culture with Citzenship as Dr Francis Saliba does.

The TRUTH remains that the Malta born George Preca was NOT Maltese but British Subject and there is NOTHING to remedy the situation !!!

NB :

Between your post and that of Dr Saliba, I have posted a comment which has NOT yet been published - it would have saved you writing your post and HELPED in the solution of this (Preca's Status) Issue.

Joe Portelli

Dec 1st 2009, 05:51

a piece of paper does not change culture.

from britsh subject to maltese passport , from Roman citizen to muslim arab, from Spanish citizen to french subject , Maltese we always and will be Maltese - look at the arguments so territorial (that come with being bred onma small island).

Mr Meli agues and I dont agree but we have to share this little sun baked sweet island together , can't have the cake and eat it.

By teh way we had saints in the 1800's too, but thats another story.

If we went by surname instead of passports, we would soon know who came to the island from Europe or from Africa - so watch it Mr Meli. Lol

Dr Francis Saliba

Nov 29th 2009, 21:19

@Jospeh M Meli

Simple really! There have been Maltese from time immemorial in spite of their being subjects of Britain and Commonwealth and before them, the French, the Knights, the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies as far back as the Romans and Carthaginians. No need to consult anyone!

Joseph M. Meli

Nov 29th 2009, 18:50

@Saliba

Insults get you NOWHERE !!

Check with the British High Commission and with the Citizenship Office at the Office of the Prime Minister [Malta] if Malta born indviduals were British Subjects or not before 00:00:01 of September 21st, 1964.

Over and Out !

Dr Francis Saliba

Nov 29th 2009, 13:19

@Joseph M Meli

And I always thought that I myself ,and all other millions who were born here before Malta became independent, were true full blooded Maltese Nationals and not just British subjects! Now you tell me! Remind me to add your expertise regarding nationality to your other ones regarding science. mythology and university doctorates!

Joseph M. Meli

Nov 29th 2009, 00:38

@ MBorg & Dr Francis Saliba

The Valletta born George Preca is NOT the First Maltese Saint for ONE simple reason :

Dun George Preca died on 26 July 1962, TWO full years before Malta gained its Independence from Great Britain and became Sovreign.

Malta born individuals prior to 00:00:01 of September 21st 1964 were British Subjects - as one can look this information up for him/herself.

The Maltese CITIZENSHIP was the natural effect of Independence TWO full years after the demise of Dun George Preca.

ALL Passports pertaining to Malta born individuals were BRITISH PASSPORTS with the Status showing as BRITISH SUBJECTS !!!!

The MYTH that Dun George Preca was the FIRST MALTESE Saint was fabricated by the Curia to play on the emotions of the "faithful".

The FIRST Maltese Saint is STILL to be declared !!!

I thank MBorg and Francis Saliba for this opportunity to put the NATIONALITY of Dun George Preca in its PROPER perspective.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Preca

NOWHERE in the speech of Pope Ratzinger the world "Maltese" as reference to the NATIONALITY of Dun George Preca was uttered, the worlds used were "a son worthy of your Islands" - Joseph Ratzinger knows Maltese History well.

MBorg

Nov 28th 2009, 20:28

@ Joseph M Meli

You may be good at Science but not very good at History.

We already have a Maltese saint. The first Maltese saint is Dun George Preca.

Dr Francis Saliba

Nov 28th 2009, 20:17

@JosephMMeli

There is nothing “scientific” or “reasonable” in your comment and no “mythology” in mine.
Please spare me your random thoughts about Luther and whether he was an Augustinian or a Domenican. I am well informed on the subject without having to do a Google Search - they are irrelevant to the present topic.
Please enlighten us who has authorized you to effect the ultra-rapid in vivo canonization of Fr Montebello without realizing that you have already missed the boat about the canonization of Malta’s FIRST saint. Have you not heard of St Gorg Preca!

Joseph M. Meli

Nov 28th 2009, 18:15

@Dr Francis Saliba :

My dear Francis bow to REASON and Science and not to mythology !!!

I omitted Martin Luther on purpose, he was not a Domenican but an Augustian Monk, he was mocked, cursed and up to some years back in Hamrun (a Town in Malta - for the benefit of non-Maltese readers of this newspaper) a statue of Saint Cajetan steping on Luther gave elequence of the Catholic charity.

It was Martin Luther who saved Christianity in the days when the Papacy was compared to a cheap fast money-making whore.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martin_Luther

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Cajetan

I won't be at all surprised if Martin Luther be proclaimed a SAINT of the Roman Catholic Church when it is purified of its hypocrites !!

Same can be said of Mark when he passes over to better existance - he will be Malta's FIRST Saint.

Am sure that for MANY Fr Mark Montebello stands for what the Protagonist of the Faith, you say to hold, IS a LIVING SAINT.

Thank you Fr Mark Montebello

Joseph A Borg

Nov 28th 2009, 17:59

omertà!!!!! let's censure public discourse.

Let's distinguish between upholding the tenets of faith and church policy. Every citizen and every catholic is duty bound to denounce behavior that is not in keeping with his conscience.

How can I believe the church has really changed its policy on child abuse?
When such a simple matter is blown out of proportion?
When priests are denounced and ostracized for being honest with their conscience and in line with their expertise?

So the priests who are experts in law, psychology, sociology, ethics, media etc… are they being honest to their profession or simply appeasing the hardliners in the church?
What are they contributing to public discourse?

May I remind the catholics in this thread that Jesus denounced the priests of his time. Now it's convenient to forget that part of the New Testament and conflate church and state into one confusing mess.

Dr Francis Saliba

Nov 28th 2009, 16:46

@JosephMMeli

I bow to your superior judgment from on high that some statement by me was ARROGANT and VERY Catholic. You leave me speechless and reluctant to confute the intricately illogical exposition of your dogmatic assertion.

I do not need to consult any encyclopedia to spot the irrelevance of making comparisons between a Borgia and our Montebello. Please leave your time warp and come back to this island and to this century.

MBorg

Nov 28th 2009, 16:38

@ Stefanie Boyd
"Because he has an open mind , respects other people's wishes and faith."

A priest is not there to respect other people's wishes. His "job" is to teach the word of Christ even if it is against " people's wishes " and to set a good example by his actions. Fr Mark just cannot bend the rules (teachings) to look good in the eyes of the people. He cannot reinvent the Catholic religion.

Joseph M. Meli

Nov 28th 2009, 15:56

@ Dr Saliba

You opening statement is VERY Catholic, meaning ARROGANT !!!

As for Pope Alexander VI, "before becoming a Pope" input of yours, read this ....

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pope_Alexander_VI

Well ????

Better a Montebello than a Borgia !!

Dr Francis Saliba

Nov 28th 2009, 15:46

@Stephanier Boyd

Where have we been taught to "respect other people's wishes" BUT NOT THE WISHES OF OUR RELIGIOUS AND CIVIL AUTHORITIES?

J.Cassar

Nov 28th 2009, 14:24

Isn't this the same church which came all out against the Court of Human Rights labeling it an institution which tries to censor religion?

Oh I forgot. It's also the church which wants to ban newspapers it does not like at University.

Talk about two weights and two measures.

Dominic Fenech

Nov 28th 2009, 14:10

Mark explained himself by invoking reason. His censors explained themselves by invoking discipline.

O Farrugia

Nov 28th 2009, 13:07

I do not always agree with Fr Mark's views. But I have a mind of my own and my FAITH to guide me. Fr Mark is different and one needs an open mind to understand him. Jesus was not always easy to understand because his methods are hard to live by on a daily basis.

This story just reminds me that at the time Jesus walked the Earth, the High Priests DID NOT EVEN RECOGNIZE HIM, despite their theological knowledge and teachings about God ! HE walked alone to teach the truth about God !

So I think standing out on your own against all currents is in fact closer to the way Jesus walked through his mission. This is where the Church defers today. Its own rules bind it to do things that Jesus would not do. Fr Mark only needs to be careful because we live in a world where any kind of power tends to suppress any changes to the norm and the freedom for ANY real truth to come out !

Stefanie Boyd

Nov 28th 2009, 10:26

Why dissociate him? Because he is open minded, respects other people's wishes and faith? Isn't that what we are all taught?

Marius Magrius

Nov 28th 2009, 09:41

I say go all the way!!! Our Mark should follow in the footsteps of King Henry VIII. The New Church of Malta is what we need!!! We need some proper and clear cut divisions on this island. Go Mark go - lets have some proper fun and entertainment.......... and a few beheadings along the way!!!

simon cutajar

Nov 28th 2009, 08:38

Dejjem nisthajel il- knisja ma xi ligi marzjali ! trid taqbel maghna bil- fors inkella naqtawlek rasek barra . Jien ma naqbilx li l- kurciffiss ghandu jitnehha imma hija opinjoni tieghi biss . Kristu meta gie fid- dinja iltaqa ma nies tajbin u nies inqas tajbin imma ma qatta ras hadd u iltaqa ma qabda pagani li hasbu li t- tempju rat- gebel huwa kollox . Mhux ahjar inxamru l- kmiem u nibdew nahdmu milli impacpcu fil- vojt u naghmlu bhal dawk il- pagani ! Mhux il- libsa taghmilna nies imma x'hemm go fina .

Dr Francis Saliba

Nov 27th 2009, 21:53

@JosMMeli

You have not disproved anything in my comment.

Introducing Rodrigo Borgia irrelevantly into this discussion is the usual opportunistic tactic to grasp any occasion to bring the whole institution of the Church into disrepute. The scandalous life of Rodrigo Borgia before he became pope does not justify any permissive attitude towards the removal of the Crucifix from our public places or to show disrespect towards the present Head of the Church, Pope Benedict and others lower down in the Church hierarchy by a rebellious priest. I expect that any Catholic priest would publicly disapprove that anyone would make use of him for that purpose.

Joseph M. Meli

Nov 27th 2009, 20:14

@Emmanuel Schembri

The person you refered to was Galileo Galilei :

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galileo_Galilei

@ Dr Francis Saliba

In 1475 Savonarola's poem De Ruina Ecclesiae (On the Downfall of the Church) displayed his contempt of the Roman Curia by terming it 'a false, proud whore', a state in which the Church of Rome which, unfortunately, still is Centuries later !!!

On May 13, 1497, the rigorous Father Savonarola was excommunicated by Pope Alexander VI, and in 1498, Alexander demanded his arrest and execution. This Pope is the one & only Rodrigo Borgia, who fathered and and had sexual relations with his daughter Lucrezia.

How about that for a successor of St Peter and "God"s representative on Earth ???

The Church of Jesus Christ has been hijacked at the First Council of Nicaea in 325 CE.

Anthony Grima

Nov 27th 2009, 19:08

This is totally insane .. I don't agree with the Dominican Province AT ALL. Fr Mark is a great priest - I listen to his Mass every Sunday in Pieta' and every Sunday it's a wonderful experience. He makes it in such a unique way that the Mass is not boring like Masses from other priests. And I admit, should for some reason Fr Mark is not allowed to do the Mass any more, I will STOP going to church because I believe he is the best priest around. And mind you, I don't know him personally. I just love the way he talks, the way he expresses himself - I like his opinions.

This dissociation by the Dominicans is totally non-sense .. where is the freedom of speech? We're in 2009! Why can't the church be more 'modern'? Everybody thought that with Archbishop Cremona things were gonna be different - but it's not the case. The church still has 'oldish' opinions which are incompatible with today's world, excluding Fr. Mark of course.

I totally agree with Fr Mark regarding the Crucifix - MOST IMPORTANTLY, it should be kept in our hearts. Keep it up Fr Mark.

Joseph Schembri

Nov 27th 2009, 18:46

Were all Catholics like Fr Mark, the world would be a better place. I have always admired this man. He gets nothing out of all the trouble he goes to speak for those without a voice.

Another man just under two thousand years ago was crucified for blessing the meek and forgiving prostitutes fraudsters and a motley crew of humanity.

Dr Francis Saliba

Nov 27th 2009, 18:46

@ KAbela
I will tell you what’s wrong. There are people who would rather be notoriously in the news rather than being absent from public notice. The trait is usually associated with stage performers, not priests. Moreover, when dog bites man that is not news but when man bites dog that hits the headlines!

Nadia Ellul

Nov 27th 2009, 18:02

Now I can understand why the church never wanted to educate the layman, because the more we know, the less power they have over us..... the people used to be terrified of the church, now we question and have minds of our own. Pls Fr Mark don't give up.

GiovDeMartino

Nov 27th 2009, 17:34

Lil dawk KOLLHA li ghandhom il-Kurcifiss f'qalbhom, li jimxu perfettament mat-taghlim tal-Vangelu, ihennu, ihobbu anki lill-ghedewwa, jaghmlu karita....lil dawk kollha li huma onesti u gusti...tistghu tghiduli allura lilkom, li intom tant tajbin, x'fastidju jtikom iol-Kurcifiss fi klassi? ien midneb kbir u b'dankollu fuq is-sodda ghandi Kurcifss imdendel. Allura intom, li intom tant u tant tajbin m'ghandux kollkom wehed ukoll. Jien ipokritu, mhux bhalkom. Allura izjed jixraq lilkom iddendlu Kurcifiss. Zgur li se jinjorani kulhadd lili.

neville debattista

Nov 27th 2009, 16:41

I have read Fr.Montebello's opinion piece for a hundred times and over but I still cannot spot a single lie. Is it not true that in the past there were people who used and misused the Holy Cross to reach some other earthly goal and inflict pain for reasons known only to them on their neighbour. ( Think about the martyrdom of St.Joan of Arch inflicted by the English Catholic bishops, the premeditated invasion of Protestant England by the supposed pious King Philip of Spain, the scandalous and numerous indulgencies showered on the faithful in return of earthly riches and the pain and torture inflicted on innocent people during the cursed inquisition.) Fr.Montebello never hinted that he was in favour whatsoever with the removal of the Holy Cross from public places. On the contrary he is saddened because through our egoistic behaviour we have had Him removed from our hearts. What's wrong in calling a spade a spade? Does it make sense for a gladiator to cry havoc and then run away when the going gets tough. Unfortunately we are doing just that and there should be no beating around the bush about it.

GiovDeMartino@Jane Goodwin

Nov 27th 2009, 16:19

Who has NO freedom of speech?

laurence schembri

Nov 27th 2009, 14:59

In this country Religion and Church are two different entities.

Emanuel Schembri

Nov 27th 2009, 14:40

(Joe Meli)
Sewwa ghidt ghalkemm hallejt barra lil Leonardo da Vinci li wkoll ghadda minn idejn l-inkwizituri, imma beza' u rritratta l-idejat tieghu dwar it-tejoriji ta' Koperniku.
Pero' kulhadd donnu nesa l-persekuzzjoni ta' l-Isqof Gonzi u siehbu l-isqof Pace, kontra qassisin li ma qablux mad-dnub il-mejjet fis-snin 60. Insemmi patri wiehed - Saver Bezzina (ta' Lucci minghalija) li kien fil-kunvent ta' San Frangisk ir-Rabat Ghawdex. Minn kollox ghamlu biex ikeccuh minn Malta, u jibghatuh "ghall-missjoni". Mieghu u bhalu hemm ohrajn li ma niftakarx jew li lanqas naf bihom. Il-knisja Kattolika hija storikament strument tal-qerda ta' dawk li ma jaccettawhiex jew jopponuha, u d-Dumnikani u l-Gizwiti (ghadhom sal-lum jissejhu Suldati) l-aghar perpetraturi.

K Abela

Nov 27th 2009, 14:06

What's wrong with this man!?! he always likes to be on the opposite side of common sense under his umbrella as a priest so as to attract attention on himself! Turn on TVM, OneTV, NetTV or the radio and you are bound to find him PROTESTING somewhere. Can't he stay in his own skin as we common mortals do?! Moreso since he should be setting an example as a priest and not encourage CONTINUOUS unnecessary turmoil?! Or is it a coy plan by the Curia to let him ''be lively'' and deviate attention from more serious concerns?!

Jane goodwin

Nov 27th 2009, 12:55

So much for Freedom of Speech! Viva!

Dr Francis Saliba

Nov 27th 2009, 12:01

@ChristianSciberras

I cannot make head or tail of your comment. Being of sound mind I see no reason why I should take your advice and show disrespect towards the Sunday mass congregation by standing up and shouting some inanity on your behalf!

Joseph A Borg

Nov 27th 2009, 11:18

sadly another case of the church hiding and obfuscating. Every Maltese citizen in his right mind should be in favour of the total separation of church from state. We want a secular state that doesn't accept these shenanigans.

Silencing dissent is only practiced in totalitarian states!

Christian Sciberras

Nov 27th 2009, 09:39

@Dr Francis Saliba - Aw come on.

During Sunday mass shout "Adam and Eve never existed" and many people will either get angry or confused (if not giving a heart attack to the elderly).

If you think everyone is informed, most are not (which is another argument in why the majority simply decides on a biased and wrong context most of the time).

People OUGHT to know. But DO THEY?
No.

Dr. Geoffrey Schembri Adami Med. Vet.

Nov 27th 2009, 00:50

“I am very saddened. Jesus has all of His wounds open another time. His Beloved Mother suffers intensively. You well know, and disgracefully this is not a secret, that the Church is very disturbed, there is much heretical propaganda within the Church of God. There are many persons, including several priests and religious, who are creating scandal; people who should be light and certainty, who should promote faith but instead sow doubt, who should inspire value but instead create confusion in people’s minds. Millions of souls are confused. There is great danger that, in practice, the Sacraments, all of them, will be emptied of their content, and that the very commandments of God’s law will lose their meaning for consciences. A flock is in good shape when the shepherds are concerned for the sheep, when they do not bring the flock to graze in areas where the grass is poisonous, but where they can find nourishing foliage. The same thing happens with souls.”- Saint Josemaría Escrivá De Balaguer.

“There are severe signs of decomposition, for the smoke of Satan has made its way into the Church of God.” – Pope Paul VI

Jessica DeBattista

Nov 27th 2009, 00:33

Xarabank is just not the ideal venue for such a discussion. It is not conducive to an unbiased healthy discussion - not to mention the interventions from the floor.

Personally, I would have loved to watch and listen to an, uninhibited, serious discussion between just members of the clergy where they can feel free to air their views. The problem with us is that we, as a people, inadvertently, exert restraint on the clergy itself by our predisposition to judge and attack anything that threatens to ruffle our feathers. We are not yet mature enough to accept that difference of opinion is a healthy way which can lead us to a better understanding of our religion.

Clayton Camenzuli

Nov 26th 2009, 23:06

Hah your in the right category Fr Mark since the Dominicans have always been responsible for the inquisition even here in Malta and as you see they still are!
Times have changed medieval times have passed but some people still remained the same!

Dr Francis Saliba

Nov 26th 2009, 22:17

@JosephMMeli

Savanarola was deeply involved in the political struggles for power and alliances with France against Florence. That is why he was executed by that state after he had been excommunicated - a sad result of the intertwining between state and religion prevalent in those days.

joseph axisa

Nov 26th 2009, 22:11

Fr Mark keep it up!

j n ebejer

Nov 26th 2009, 21:00

Whilst one has all right to show disagreement with some of his arguments and statements, staying in line with Order's rules etc; it would be just as right to appreciate his invitation for a true respect for the crucifix and all, irrispective of creed or belief/misbelief.

If only all of us would dare to be criticised for our beliefs and not fear to expose our views, irrispective of what others might say of us, I think there would be more of a positive change than damage done. But then, we are so used to our safe cocoon of an all Christian nation, that whilst we attack any boat rockers of the same boat, we ignore that we are navigating stagnant waters.
Some places do not merit to have a crucifix hung on them because we have allowed these to become places of curruption, discrimination and disrespect. We go hell loose on such an issue but then we are dumb on matters which should be unacceptable for a Cristian community. But then, these would effect our pocket, our reputation, political carreer or have us renounce to some favour. So be it.

Wayne Hewitt

Nov 26th 2009, 20:56

Catholic 'tolerance' et al..

Joseph M. Meli

Nov 26th 2009, 20:46

Shame on the Domenican for dissociating with one of their most outspoken members !

Was not Girolamo Savonarola (September 21, 1452 – May 23, 1498) burnt at stake for his outspoken ideas on the Curruption of the Roman Church - the same fate of Giordano Bruno at Camp dei Fiori in Rome by the same Domenicans, under their dreaded brand of Inquisition ??

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Girolamo_Savonarola

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giordano_Bruno

Mark, the Maltese Nation is behind you, only the hypocrites are not !!

Keep up the good work you are doing - the future Generation will bless you for it.

Marco Farrugia

Nov 26th 2009, 20:31

Fr Mark huwa bniedem liberu li juza mohhu. Kellu bzonn kullhadd jaghmel il-gid li jaghmel hu minghajr daqq ta' trumbetti. U xi jfisser qed ihawwad l-imhuh?? Mela tkun Kattoliku jfisser tkun taf ftit principji semplici li ma jhawdukx biex tghix hajja serena u placida?? Insejtu x'qal Kristu?? Minn qed imexxi l-Knisja l-Farizej?? Ahjar inqumu ftit u nehhu l-ghanqbud!!!

Marylu Alosia d'Agostino

Nov 26th 2009, 20:16

May I send in my support to victims of conscience like Fr Mark Montebello and urge them never to give up. There is always light at the end of the tunnel.

malcolm seychell

Nov 26th 2009, 20:10

I have no problem with mark montebello expressing his personal views.

but he must remember he is a priest and not a fanatic left wing.

The arcbishop should sack him.

James De Giorgio

Nov 26th 2009, 20:01

Just defrock'im.

G .Mangion

Nov 26th 2009, 18:55

Fr Mark Montebello, as someone else wrote here I so well agree that you. Should become MR MARK Montebello, You are always on the wrong side of the arguments, why ???
Mixing pll's minds is not so Catholic ! Shame .....................................................................

mario azzopardi

Nov 26th 2009, 18:37

the archbishop should tell montebello to leave the priesthood as simple as that. he is cofusing people.

Mel Bagley

Nov 26th 2009, 18:32

Yes Malcolm, and not all traditions are good or worth clinging to for the sake of tradition. Not even Christ clung to traditions!

Remember, an outspoken man called Jesus ended up on the cross hundreds of years ago.

A priest like this is a good thing for the Church really. We need to ask about our faith, not accept it blindly!

GiovDeMartino

Nov 26th 2009, 18:01

Lil dawk kollha li jaqblu ma Father Mark./ Ghandkom ragun. F'kollox ghandkom ragun. Il-Kurja antikwati -barra Patri Mark -il-Kurja mohhhom maghluq..insomma ghandhom il-kastigi kollha fuqhom. IMMA TISTGHU TGHIDULI INTOM, LI INTOM KATTOLICI TAJBIN U MODERNI, X'FASTIDJU JTIKOM IL-KURCIFISS? Tghid iwiegeb xi hadd?>

Paul Ciantar

Nov 26th 2009, 17:18

dejjem fil kontroversja patri mark

I Brown

Nov 26th 2009, 14:44

Christ would have dialogued with Mark Montebello, not ask him to walk the line. In my opinion Fr Montebello is being discriminated by the Church for his fortright views.

Which leads me to think... Where was the Church when the scandals of the St Joseph home were unearthed? Did the higher echelons dissociate themselves?

D. Galea

Nov 26th 2009, 14:39

Fr. Mark irid izomm f'moħħu li hu sacerdot u jgorr mieghu il-libsa ta' Dumnikan. Ghalkemm ghandu dritt ikollu l-opinjoni tieghu, irid joqoghd attent x'jghid fil-pubbliku ghax hu fil-hajja tieghu kollha qieghed jirraprezenta lill-Knisja u l-Ordni Dumnikan.

Billi Fr. Mark qed jghid dak li qed jghidu xi whud min-nies ma jfissirx li hu progressiv jew mohh miftuh. Jien naqbel mat-tolleranza u r-rispett lejn religjonijiet ohra izda ma naqbilx li jitnehha s-salib. Jekk naqbel mat-tolleranza kif inehhi s-salib? Xi haga kontradittorja.

Naghmel Simboli ta' religjonijiet ohra biex vera nuri t-tolleranza inkella nispiccaw, biex ingib ezempju nqablu u nhobbu l-kuluri kollha imma mbaghad kulhadd jilbes l-iswed biex ma nwegghu lil hadd. Jekk irridu tolleranza naghmlu s-simboli ta religjonijiet ohrajn u ma dan taqbel ukoll il-Knisja.

Malcolm Borg

Nov 26th 2009, 14:15

I wonder who the true Christian is in this case.
Fr. Mark doesn't need the approval of his 'superiors' to think. Apparently he needs the approval of his 'superiors' to speak out his thoughts.
The Church knows Fr. Mark is right...of course it does...it's made up of thinking people too. But it has to follow its traditions...

Dr Francis Saliba

Nov 26th 2009, 14:10

@CFarrugia
If you honestly believe that a priest has the right to confuse Maltese Catholics about who speaks for the church, whether it is the bishops, the convent superiors or Fr Montebello then there is no more to be said to you. Others familiar with the text of our Constitution would know that the right to teach belongs to the authorities of the Roman Catholic Apostolic Church – not to any maverick priest.

Emanuel Cilia Debono

Nov 26th 2009, 14:03

I cannot blame the Dominican Order for its stand vis a vis Fr. Montebello.
In my opinion Fr. Montebello's views on Xarbank were not only unorthodox but also lacked sound logic. How can he justify the removal of religion from the definition of culture ? How can he justify himself displaying a crucifix in his own hands whilst vehemently arguing against the display of crucifixes in public places?
Fr.Mark should keep in mind that as a pastor of religion he should refrain from theatricals or from illogical or unsound expressions which may mislead the flock of the faithful..

Adrian Saliba Vella

Nov 26th 2009, 13:54

I have had little exposure to any of Fr Mark Montabello's controversial past contributions, whether they be printed or through any of the media means. However on his last TV appearance he indeed managed to tie me to my seat and follow his contributions and his way of thought This TV programme was with the Emeritus Justice Mifsud Bonnici. What Fr Montabello managed to do to me is not to convince me but rather given me a different light of how to look at things. I have to admit he did steel my heart in one way. In all fairness, in this issue, I believe we are not keeping an open eye and reaching decisions based on convition but rather we seem to be going into this issue with blinkers on and an already made up mind. On the other hand Emeritus J. Mifsud Bonnici surely made his arguments well and despite his maturity at age, he still has so much to offer to society . Thank you for such a programme.

TBriffa

Nov 26th 2009, 13:46

Fr Mark makes sense to people who are not afraid to use their own brains as opposed to following rules blindly. Pity he's a Catholic priest, he could probably do much more good by not being associated with the Church.

A.Busuttil

Nov 26th 2009, 13:40

Jiena xejn ma naqbel ma Mark Montebello pero nahseb li ahna kottoloci mhux min habba salib imma b'dak li nghamlu ahna ghal proxmu.Id Dumnikani ghandhom hafna x'jitghalmu minn Fr Mark.Pero Fr Mark qed jaqa fin nasba ta xarabank.Peppi jghatih il lixka u meta jkun se jibda jkun validu u jispjega........ejja morru ghar reklami u nibqu b'nofs lehja

Joe Busuttil

Nov 26th 2009, 13:24

Shades of the 50 and 60s and the Interdett.

malcolm seychell

Nov 26th 2009, 13:13

About time ukoll!!!!

A. Borg

Nov 26th 2009, 13:09

Ghax ghadna Dumnikan progressiv qeghdin naraw kif sa naghlqulu halqu!

G Busuttil

Nov 26th 2009, 13:02

As one of the closest of Fr Mark's collaborators for the last 15 years, something of which I am very proud, I feel I can say that blunt and unorthodox he may be but he is selfless in all he does and very deep in his deeds, thoughts and convictions which are pure Christianity itself.

CFarrugia

Nov 26th 2009, 12:59

Dr Francis Saliba
"maltese catholics have every right not to be confused about who is speaking for the church".....I do not agree with you here, maltese catholics have a duty to inform themselves about catholic theology and not just about what their local priest is saying or not saying, the priests in Germany (who I talked to personally), also Catholic, say completely different things about divorce and other important themes than the local priests and Bishops, as catholics we should be informed about different opinions within catholicsm, otherwise we are restricting our knowledge. you seem to be assuming the people are too stupid to think with their own mind and get confused as soon as they hear something diffeerent, this woudl imply that their faith is not strong enough, that woudl be the problem not the teachings of Mark Montebello

John Bugeja

Nov 26th 2009, 12:58

@Dr Francis Saliba
It is the likes of Father Mark Montebello that tend to attract back the numerous young, open- minded and liberal Maltese people who just can't take any more of the cobweb-infested clericals who still think and speak as if we're still living in the 17th century. As for the Dominicans' censorship of Father Mark, nobody expected anything different. And in the meantime the number of faithful (what they still call sheep) is ever decreasing in 100% Catholic Malta. Keep up your good work Father Mark.

Franco Farrugia

Nov 26th 2009, 12:52

@ Demartino: Mela ejja nhallu lin-nies fl-injoranzja ghax mhux kulhadd ghandu d-dottorat!

@ M Farrugia - U tahseb li int se tkun l-ewwel wiehed li ssikkithom lil dawn ir-religjuzi ta' valur? U ma nahsibx li nies bhal Montebello jinhtiegu l-'pariri' tieghek!

Alexandra Borg

Nov 26th 2009, 12:52

I agree with most of what Fr Montebello is saying about the Crucifix debate. It's not how many crucifixes fixed we have in class rooms or public places but it's the faith that is expressed from within.....
However, I would not have gone on Xarabank to try to explain that, but we all know that it is Fr Montebello's style, and he just loves to shock people....

Dr Francis Saliba

Nov 26th 2009, 12:50

Fr Mark Montebello has every right to hold and express any opinion and to receive the plaudits even of those critics who never miss an opportunity to mock and to criticize destructively the local representatives and authorities of the Catholic Church. Because of the vow of obedience he should not do that when he is wearing the hat of a Catholic Reverend Father. Maltese catholics have every right not to be confused about who is speaking for the Church - whether it is the bishops, the superiors of the religious orders or Fr Montebello!

dusty williams

Nov 26th 2009, 12:42

Fr Mark dak li thoss li ghandek tghid ghidu, jien stra-konvint li dak li inti qed tghid qed tghidu b'onesta u ghax thoss li hu hekk, qed tesprimi ruhek. alumenu m'intix ipokrita bhall hafna minnhom. Ahjar nieqaf hawn ara.

Christian Sciberras

Nov 26th 2009, 12:39

@M. Farrugia - X'inhu it-tghalim tal-Knisja?
Li tiggri l'hawn u l'hem b'xi salib?

If so, what makes you any better then any other fundamentalist religious?

Dominic Chircop

Nov 26th 2009, 12:38

It's a good thing the Dominicans don't run the Inquisition anymore.

They would surely have burnt FR. Montebello at the stake !

renald williams

Nov 26th 2009, 12:38

it is not the church, nor a church, neither churces that save, but it is Christ the Saviour that saves, peace and health to all www.tecmalta.org/blata.htm

P Bonnici

Nov 26th 2009, 12:38

I admire the hard work Fr Montebello does with the marginalized and rejected members of our society who are not articulate and capable enough to defend themselves and fight for their rights.

We need more men like Fr Montebello in our society, he is a selfless man.

A message to those who judge him: wait till you fall victim of abuse of power by the police or the judiciary (we heard about many such cases in the press recently) - it will be Fr Montebello who will come to your aid in prison.

I wonder how many Muslims in prison, Fr Montebello has managed to convert to Christianity, as a Catholic priest this would be his main mission in life.

David Mallia

Nov 26th 2009, 12:31

I do not agree with censorship, however, every catholic represents the church and a priest in more ways than one. One of the requisites is to follow the church teaching and guidance. As Fr Montebello had a powerful presentation and made a number quite categorical statements. It is already difficult to follow the teachings of our church, what we don't need is different interpretations. So basicaly I will shop around for an opinion and chose the one I like. If he/we want to change things, I do not think a media programme which is mainly for entertainment was the right venue for this.

L. Coleiro

Nov 26th 2009, 12:27

I don't consider myself a fan of Fr. Montebello (AT ALL!!)

But hearing a priest speaking his mind out so openly feels like a fresh of breath air from the traditional conservative dictatorship called catholic church. And...... till a certain extent makes me believe that the church is truly opening its doors to change.

Then the Dominicans issue a statement like this……. and we are back to square one!

Pawlu Agius

Nov 26th 2009, 12:19

Fr Mark would have done better it he entered a Jesuit rather than a Dominican!

Christian Sciberras

Nov 26th 2009, 12:17

Is that it? Either with us or against us?

If you people believe there's just the "good guys" and "bad guys", you're very much mistaken.

What a hypocritic country is this?!
First people shout "freedom of speech" next they shout "censorship"?!

M. Farrugia

Nov 26th 2009, 12:16

Membri tal-kleru it-tip ta Mark Montebello u oħrajn li ta spiss jesprimu ruhom kontra it-taghlim tal-knisja ghandhom jigu ċ-censurati darba għal dejjem. Inutili li l-provinċja tghid li dak li qal Mark ma taqbilx mieghu biss hemm bzonn passi harxa bħal ma issir f'postijiet oħra. Il-provincja ma ghandux ihallih imorru aktar fuq ix-xandir u jikteb fil-ġurnali. Nies bhal Mark u oġra qed jaghmlu hsara kbira lil-Knisja ghax nies lajci meta titkellem maghhom qed ta spiss jikkwotawhom.
Naghmel appell lil Mark Montabello u oħra li ma irridux joqghodu ghal dak li tghid il-Knisja ma jibqawx f'kommunita reliġjuza u jmorru fis-sekular. B'hekk min jibqa lura sabiex jikkritika lil dawn il-membri tal-Kleru minħabba is-agrament li jħadnu ikunu jistaw jikkritkaw bla bi#a ta xejn.
Mark MOntebello jekk veru thobb ir-religjon itlaq minn patri llum qabel ghada.

D Farrugia

Nov 26th 2009, 12:14

Fr Montebello was absolutely right in his write-up on the crucifix in public places. There was nothing un-Chistian in what he wrote. We commit all sins known to man then think going to church on Sunday or hang a crucifix on the wall will absolve us. Christianity and true Christian values are about how you live and not about how much crucifixes you hang around walls and flaunt in others faces. We will see a better world by respecting and loving one another and not by hanging a crucifix on the wall.

Keep up the good work Fr Montebello.

Anthony Farrugia

Nov 26th 2009, 12:13

Time to Restore Priesthood mentality in MALTA. Beside what Rev.M.Montebello said, it seems that since long time ago Rev. Montebello have already removed the cross, since he, like many other priest in Malta are ashamed to ware a small cross on their breast pocket.
It is time that his Ecc. Mgr.P.Cremona, personally impose/insist that if priest opt not to wear the traditional habit (Suttana/Tonka etc) Priest must wear decent cloths, no bright colours or designes of any top model brands. Priest must wear a small simple gold/silver cross on their breast pockets such as married couples wear a gold ring, police wear the uniform and so on. Priest must dedicate more time to their holy vocational life that they chose and to the spiritual needs of the comunity, than to obtain personal accademic degrees, diplomas or Ph.D' s on non religious related subject. Most priest have a superiority mentality over the rest, if so than they must follow the teaching of Christ as to serve others rather than to be served.

Joe Grima

Nov 26th 2009, 12:12

I missed the original article by Fr Mark I went back to the article through the link provided with the story of the Domincans distancing themsleves from him. This is not the first time they have. Where will they exile Fr Mark to this time? They already exiled him to Spain once. Where will it be now, Somalia? Fr Mark is an admirable priest - an intellectual to a T. His binkered critics, excluding the Dominican Order, have not understood a word of what Fr Mark wanted to convey. His message was so clear: Keep the Cross and Christ in your heart. Symbols belong to paganism. They become relevant only when people live their meaning. What Fr Mark was advocating was for Christians to eliminate those daily acts that put the Cross to shame. Do not parade the crucified Christ like a trophy, while your heart is blackened with hatred and envy for your fellow man. I stand in awe of this brilliant man with a modern message.. Insofar as the Domincan Order is concerned: That Order is part of the Church establishment. It will contest anyone and anything that may rock the status-quo boat.

Josef Fenech

Nov 26th 2009, 12:10

We need people like Fr. Mark in this island !
People who are not afraid of speaking the truth.
Fr. Mark is in touch with reality, and can speak first hand.
Keep up your good work.

joseph borg

Nov 26th 2009, 12:05

Mark Montebello should run for politics instead and leave the teachings of the Church alone

Franco Farrugia

Nov 26th 2009, 11:58

I say nothing, unlike some people who are here gloating beneath, and who should know better. Let the so-called fervent Christians or whatever they call themselves gloat and have fun over what the Order said. In my view, he wrote nothing controversial for once.

eric saliba

Nov 26th 2009, 11:52

why don't we bring back the Inquisition and burn Fr Mark at the stake for heresy? the Dominicans used to excel in this!

John A. Zammit

Nov 26th 2009, 11:51

Fr. Mark, since you are a Dominican be careful lest you become the Giordano Bruno of our time.

Marylu Alosia d'Agostino

Nov 26th 2009, 11:45

So removing a crucifix from a classroom is censorship, but shutting up someone we don't agree with is not . . .

John Falzon

Nov 26th 2009, 11:44

Fr Mark is a true intellectual and teacher who has the skill of simplifying often very complex moral and theological arguments and prersenting them in words that everyone can understand. The problem is that many do not want to hear the truth, or better still that many people have their own personalised version of the "truth" and indeed of the Catholic faith itself. In reality, there is only one TRUTH but of course many many interpretations of that truth. Keep it up Fr Mark and shame to those who open their mouths only to spew forth venom and falsities. That includes your so called superiors who persist in naming and shaming you in public, in what is definitely not a Catholic or even Christian spirit.

M Miceli

Nov 26th 2009, 11:41

His comments were very valid in my oppinion. Imma min irid jibqa go bozza joqghod. Il knisja nahseb trid taddatta aktar u mhux tibqa tahseb kif kienu jahsbu mitt sena ilu.

Adrian Cachia

Nov 26th 2009, 11:40

Whether you agree or not with what Father Montebello says. We need someone like him on the island. I am sure there are other priests like him that have left or made to leave the Maltese shores to go in other countries and serve there as missionaries!

Stanley Agius

Nov 26th 2009, 11:39

I really admire Fr. Mark for actually practising what he preaches. He is also one of the few who is not afraid to speak out for what he believes is right, despite the consequences.

I followed but a small part of Xarabank discussing the said issue. In my opinion, Fr. Mark's contributions were the among the few ones following a sound logical argument and not driven by an utter bias or fundamentalist belief.

Joseph D Borg

Nov 26th 2009, 11:30

I can see nothing wrong about what Fr. Mark Montebello said; maybe he is not in line with the teachings of the Catholic Church but he is 100% in line with the year 2009

R. Agius

Nov 26th 2009, 11:27

Of course they disassociate themselves. Who is surprised by the anti-democratic stance of the curia?

I appeal to Fr. Mark to continue expressing his opinion. Ultimately he is serving God not some domenican province!

A. Vella

Nov 26th 2009, 11:24

I totally agree with Father Montebello. The Curia should LISTEN more to opinions like that of Fr Montebello and other Catholics, and not be stubborn and with an authoritarian style. Curia should work on ways and means on how to be more effective in delivering the catholic religion. It is futile to have a crucifix in a room and then swear to your utmost, or go to church and immediatley after start talking about other people......... I personally think that Curia should work more on how to attract more people and not vice versa!!!!!

Marylu Alosia d'Agostino

Nov 26th 2009, 11:22

Ha! There we go again!!! Let's censor the priest if he doesn't tow the line . . . As long as the removal of the crucifix from the classroom is censorship according to our archbishop! This censorship thing is becoming common practice . . .

GiovDeMartino

Nov 26th 2009, 11:19

Anki JEKK Patri Mark kellu ragun, xorta wahda qed jaghmel hafna hsara lill-Knisja. Mhux kulhadd ghandu d-dottorat!

Peter Darmanin

Nov 26th 2009, 11:15

"Humility is the foundation of all the other virtues hence, in the soul in which this virtue does not exist there cannot be any other virtue except in mere appearance."
Saint Augustine

Frans Sammut

Nov 26th 2009, 11:14

I hope this very worthy priest realizes that his opinions simply cannot be aired in certain TV roadshows without consequences not desired by himself. It's like expounding some theological or philosophical treatise at the flea market. I have been verbally defending his stance (knowing him to be a very sincere and honest priest) but it is not easy to persuade people that it reflects the thoughts of a great believer, perhaps one of the greatest believers around. People just cannot digest his stance. He must change it asap if he wants to continue being an asset to his religion.

j licari

Nov 26th 2009, 11:12

I think he should resign immediately because he is causing alot of hatred to the catholic church with his comments ..I am sorry but this did not happen the first time it happens whenever Fr Mark speaks in public ....

CFarrugia

Nov 26th 2009, 11:09

Mark Montebello go ahead with what you are doing and saying, we need people like you in Malta who can reason and think with their own mind and do not let themselves be influenced and brainwashed by others, this is afterall the substance of democracy, that one can speak his mind freely

M Mifsud

Nov 26th 2009, 11:09

I do not always agree with Fr Mark Montebello, however I can't help but admire him for his hard work in order to help those in need. The Dominicans may be right to advise Fr. Montebello to show more sensitivity when dealing with certain issues, however they should not condemn outright his views when, according to them, they do not conform with the teachings of the Catholic Church. Unfortunately, the Catholic Church doesn't easily accept critism, particularly if it comes from within the Church itself. It would be much better if learned priests, like Fr. Montebello were given the chance within the Church itself to express themselves and persuade us that their intentions are genuine and sincerely meant to benefit the Catholic Church.

JOSEPH ZAMMIT

Nov 26th 2009, 11:07

In my humble opinion, there is nothing wrong with the views by Dominican priest Fr Mark Montebello OP. The issue is that his views were not in line with the official teachings of the Catholic Church or with any of its policies.
It could be that Mark is a "naughty" boy but not necessarily wrong! He seems to be "naughty" because the church in Malta is very conservative, while he has revolutionary views. Personally, I do not believe in the Church teachings but at the same time I believe that if the church in Malta wants to be credible, it needs to be much more mature.
On the other hand, i urge the people to read more, study more and reflect more about many of the church teachings which instead of being liberating, bind man in more conservative beliefs. There is so much to say, but alas, even maltese media do nothing to uplift man from religious ignorance. We need Spirituality in its purest form.
as i said, i do not believe in the church teachings--whether catholic, evangelical, baptist, whatever--because i believe in GOD.

Kevin Zammit

Nov 26th 2009, 11:06

oops! Fr. Mark don't you know that Jesus taught us to always say what we beleive but never say what your boss does not believe in?

Come on m8 ... what planet were you born on?

Andre schembri

Nov 26th 2009, 11:06

jiena ghallija (ghalkemm ma tantx jinteressani mir-religjonijiet) nahseb Mark montebello jirraprezenta iktar xsuppost ikun kristjan, u nahseb dan it-tip ta konservazzjonizmu, pika u poter fuq kollox li trid il-knisja; kienet l-iktar haga li beditni milli jinteressani mir-religjon ; tipo ghala isituzzjonijiet tal-knisja kienu sa ftit snien (jekk ma ghadomx) jghalmuk tghobodd il nies breligjon differenti (ez tal-gihova)? jew ghala il-knisja mimlija gid ? jekk il-bibja tghidlek ezatt bil-maqlub ...

ghar minn hekk ghala hafna nies fil-knisja spiccaw hazin meta mxew mat-tghalim tal-bibja (ez Papa Luciani, San Frangisk etc)?

ghallek nahseb li il-knisja hija istituzjoni ippokrita, fej jinteresssaha iktar issir istituzzjoni iktar potenti u sinjura milli tgheleb il-mibeda u l-ingustizzja fuq nies (bhal ma nahseb jipprova jghamel mark montebello) so sorry jiena nikkundana minn qed iwwaqqaf il-mark montebello u misthija fuqhu ...

CFarrugia

Nov 26th 2009, 11:05

I agree 100% with what Fr Mark Montebello says, his teachings agree fully with the teachings of the church, and I do not see why other Dominicans should dissociate themselves from what he said in the media. I was his student in philosophy and what he says is coherent with modern theology

Milena Aguis

Nov 26th 2009, 11:05

As a Catholic...who follows the teachings of Jesus Christ,I cannot understand the disappointment of many,and worse I cannot understand how the Dominicans could DISSASSOCIATE from comments that are supposed to teach us tolerance,non hatred etc...Fr Mark makes it clear that it is better to have true values like love.non rasicm.tolerance towards differant ideas..just like Jesus Christ taught us...Even though Fr Mark is a Catholic,he believes that God works in everyone even in an atheist...as he said in his beautiful sermon,it does not mean just cos u recieve the Eucharist on a Sunday one has stronger values then anyone else.Proud to be Catholic with priests like Fr.Montebello

Karl Abela

Nov 26th 2009, 10:58

I do not agree with Fr Montebello on the crucifix issue however we need to recognise the fact that his arguments on TV were NOT invalid arguments and he was right on many counts. Naturally, as practicing catholics I find it more difficult to applaud Fr Montebello on this issue but I could exactly fault his arguments either.

Dr Francis Saliba

Nov 26th 2009, 10:52

WHAT A BIG RELIEF!

E. Azzopardi

Nov 26th 2009, 10:47

Fr. Mark Montebello, why don't you become Mr. Mark Montebello, that way you may express yourself more freely.