A Deo et Rege

This isn’t something a person comes across everyday, but I found my way to the website of Akalyte, who is not only a Catholic hip-hop artist, but actually sings/raps about Catholic themes. Granted, hip-hop/rap is probably one of my least favorite musical styles, but I do greatly admire what he’s doing, especially since lots of young people are into rap. Anything that may help people get more deeply into their Catholic Faith is positive. Plus, I do like the samples I’ve listened to. He’s into Latin and the authentic tradition of the Church too. And, no, he doesn’t want hip hop in the mass, for those who may wonder. He shares a bit about of his own personal story in the comments on Dr. Blosser’s blog. (hat tip to Dr. Blosser, as well).

Pope Benedict, some in recent remarks, makes some wonderful points:

"Today in a multicultural and multireligious world, many are tempted to
say, ‘It is better for peace in the world among religions and cultures
not to talk too much about the specifics of Christianity, that is, of
Christ, the church and the sacraments,’"

But, that won’t increase the chances for peace:

Precisely at this moment — a
moment of great abuse of the name of God — we need the God who
triumphed on the cross, who won not with violence but by his love. "Precisely at this moment we need the face of Christ to understand the
true face of God and, in that way, to bring reconciliation and light to
the world," he said.

As always, the holy father makes some excellent points about the state of the world and the Christian response. Many people think that harmony requires giving up our Christian distinctiveness. Rather, it comes only through keeping it! Only Christ, and his message of reconciliation and love, and above all, the salvation that he offers to the whole world, can bring true peace.

Source/Story: Catholic News