Do you like or dislike Father Corapi?

[Brother_Joseph]

“Entertainment” typically gets a lot of knocks on this site (and, more generally, among a certain type of Catholic). But it shouldn’t. For in a higher regard than mere “amusement”, entertainment means engagement and the ability to connect with someone’s sensibilities in order to interact and communicate with them effectively. It is a good and necessary thing for human beings. Indeed, some might say that if people were not “entertained” by Fr. Corapi that they would would not even pause to listen.

Venturing into a realm that is kinda’ off point.

I meant “entertainment” in comparisons to the commercial glitter/glamor major network type of stuff. You see, that’s why I watch EWTN. I do, in fact, find it spiritually engaging (for my taste).

Yes, in stating the obvious, entertainment does attract people. That wasn’t the point. The point was that Corapi’s message is what’s important, regardless of his style.

Something “melensdad” even agreed with.

But thanks anyway.

You did kind of throw me on that whole “certain type of Catholic” thingy…

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[melensdad]

Venturing into a realm that is kinda’ off point.

I meant “entertainment” in comparisons to the commercial glitter/glamor major network type of stuff. You see, that’s why I watch EWTN. I do, in fact, find it spiritually engaging (for my taste).

Yes, in stating the obvious, entertainment does attract people. That wasn’t the point. The point was that Corapi’s message is what’s important, regardless of his style.

Something “melensdad” even agreed with.

But thanks anyway.

You did kind of throw me on that whole “certain type of Catholic” thingy…

.

Yes, I admit that the message is important, but overall I would be in far closer agreement with “Chicago” than with you on this issue.

I think that there is room for multiple types of shows on EWTN, but I also believe that if we want to reach out to the Catholics who are ‘occasional’ visitors to our churches, or even to the typical ‘Sunday Catholics’ then EWTN needs to be more engaging. Frankly Fr Corapi is not particularly engaging to a ‘channel surfer’ and that is, unfortunately typical of most of the EWTN programming. Most of if is simply sub-par.

Preaching to the choir is great. It needs to be done.

But EWTN has the opportunity to evangelize to the greater masses and it fails miserably at that task. Fr Corapi is an interesting and spiritual man, but his show is not very engaging to those who do not force themselves to watch it. That is typical of several EWTN shows. It is also a great shame that the network is squandering an opportunity.

 

[Brother_Joseph]

Yes, I admit that the message is important, but overall I would be in far closer agreement with “Chicago” than with you on this issue.

Frankly Fr Corapi is not particularly engaging to a ‘channel surfer’ and that is, unfortunately typical of most of the EWTN programming. Most of if is simply sub-par.

But EWTN has the opportunity to evangelize to the greater masses and it fails miserably at that task. Fr Corapi is an interesting and spiritual man, but his show is not very engaging to those who do not force themselves to watch it. That is typical of several EWTN shows. It is also a great shame that the network is squandering an opportunity.

Okay brother (although I’m not sure that was where Chicago was going with their post……of course, I’m still curious about “certain types of Catholics”??? ).

I can see your point in regards to appealing to a wider base. As I replied to Chicago, saying that entertainment appeals to people, is stating the obvious.

But how about a minor concession? You find the man boring. Understood.

But one day, totally immersed in my Protestant self-assuredness, it was him and his message that aroused my cradle Catholic soul. I wanted to ignore him….but I couldn’t.

I then discovered Fr. Pacwa, Mother Angelica, and so on.

I had Fr. Corapi’s show set on a “reminder” on my T.V. I jumped into the catechism to investigate, and listened to Catholic radio.

I returned.

…….*Thanks to Fr. Corapi’s shepherd’s crook.

Am I just an anomaly? Couldn’t you, considering EWTN’s current status, afford just a little props? Yeh, old black and white homilies aren’t going to recruit fiery pre-teens. Sure, I’d like them to compete with the “Sky Angel” network and the wave of popular Protestant media. But they are what they are….for now.

I’ll hope for an EWTN detonation someday that sends shockwaves, but until then……Father Corapi (boring or not) is a can-do kinda’ guy.

Thanks “melensdad”….

Let’s hope!

***Go Corapi ***

*(Is it a bad thing to name your dog after a priest? Never mind, I may not want to know the answer…).

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[bubbie]

i’ve liked him since the day i bought his autobiography on cd what that man went through and then became a priest. i truely admire his honesty,and am always learning something when i hear or watch him. :clapping:

 

[Polaris]

There is a certian type of Catholic in this world . I am a certian type of Catholic, you are a certian type of Catholic. We are all different certian types of Catholics, if that was not true there would only be one Rite in the Catholic church, we would all say the same novena, pray to the same saint, and wear the same scapular and pray at the exact same time. However God likes diversity and knows we are diverse. He sends us the Corapis, Rutlers, Pacwas, Angelicas, Fultens all very different and appealing to all of us differently. I am truly glad that Father Corapi has lead some of you to God, but his message would lead me further from the church. A Loud vioce, a simple message and a threat at the end does not work with me. Why? Because Im a certian type of Catholic. Im the type that I would do anything out love and reason for a friend and I have, but if you threaten me with violence I will not raise a finger and say “Do your worst cause I aint doin a thing”.

 

[chicago]

Venturing into a realm that is kinda’ off point.

I meant “entertainment” in comparisons to the commercial glitter/glamor major network type of stuff. You see, that’s why I watch EWTN. I do, in fact, find it spiritually engaging (for my taste).

Yes, that is what most people mean when they use the word in that mere bastardized sense. I certainly understood your intention, then. And, as you note, you are “entertained”.

Still, I maintain that “entertainment” attracts in a manner which is important and should not be too easily disregarded. Many (among a “certain type of Catholic”) dismiss this (and often contrast it with what they call something like “protestantized emotionalism”). Yet it ought not be dismissed. Even the beauty of a great Church, for instance, can be considered “entertaining” in that it appeals to sensibilities. And that is what draws someone in and leads them to something far deeper. So the “message” is not all which is important. It’s presentation is, also. And, indeed, it’s presentation style is perhaps part of the message, itself, expressing in action something of the message’s importance.

In Fr. Corapi’s case, his message is often offered in a very direct, no nonsense, preachy manner. It speaks of an urgency and straightforwardness about truth. This connects with some, turns off others, and leaves yet more ambivilent. His style says something about how he looks at the world and salvation. It is a good thing, but not something which works for everyone. In fact, it can come off harsh, also, and turn counterproductive in not being well received by someone who requires a more gentle approach of loving charity, which is also a preaching of gospel truth in action.

So there is room for variance in these quite legitimate positions or critique on both ends - for the one giving the message and the hearer. It doesn’t de-value the importance of his content, but perhaps it does leave room for acknowledging that his way of coming at it and it’s offering via video/audio even doesn’t effectively appeal to everyone, and may even turn some off. And the one who doesn’t care for his presentation ought not necessarily get berated for honestly acknowleding this.

Also, recognize that some of his preaching is mere opinion and personal interpretation on issues. So that can play a part, too. There are those who don’t believe in every jot and tittle of the Gospel according to John Corapi.

 

[RosalieM]

I don’t know what to make of this. Father Corapi has given me much insight into the Catechism and I’ve learned a lot from him. But seeing him with the dead bear has me perplexed. I love all God’s creatures. I even prayed for the poor bear. It was, after all, the bear’s home, its habitat. It wasn’t attacking him. Why destroy such a magnificent creature? I wish he hadn’t done that. I strongly disapprove of his hunting and killing the bear and I pray he’s not doing it anymore. I’m even going to ask about it on his website. I respect Fr. Corapi; but cannot accept the destruction of God’s creatures.

 

[melensdad]

I respect Fr. Corapi; but cannot accept the destruction of God’s creatures.

Do you ever eat meat? Do you have leather seats in your car or wear shoes, belts, handbags, etc that are made of leather? Do you take medications that were developed from the livers, pancreas or other organs of fish, sheep, pigs, goats, mice, etc? Do you use any cosmetics, shampoos, lotions, or medications that were tested for safety on animals? Do you ever use fertilizer that was made from fish or animals? Or do you feed your pets food that was derived from fish or animals?

I do not hunt. But what I know about wildlife is that we, man, has altered the ecosystem by killing off the wolves and bears and bobcats and coyotes in many areas. We did this so we could safely live in the suburbs and so we could have farms in rural areas that raise animals for us to eat, to produce milk, etc.

And now we are left with an out of wack ecosystem. Deer are overpopulated in some areas, bears are over populated in other areas. The various state wildlife departments are now forced to “manage” the wildlife population because nobody really wants to go back to allowing pedatory animals to roam in the back yards of rural and suburban areas. Sure, those predators would control each other, and the pest species like deer. But they would also just as likely attack our children, our pets poodles and even us.

So we must hunt them. Again, I choose not to hunt. But I actually appreciate the efforts of those who do hunt because when looking at the big picture, if we do not manage the populations of these animals then we are not being good stewards to the wildlife that the Lord gave us dominion over.

 

[Brother_Joseph]

Still, I maintain that “entertainment” attracts in a manner which is important and should not be too easily disregarded. Many (among a “certain type of Catholic”) dismiss this (and often contrast it with what they call something like “protestantized emotionalism”). Yet it ought not be dismissed.

In Fr. Corapi’s case, his message is often offered in a very direct, no nonsense, preachy manner. It speaks of an urgency and straightforwardness about truth. This connects with some, turns off others, and leaves yet more ambivilent. His style says something about how he looks at the world and salvation. It is a good thing, but not something which works for everyone. In fact, it can come off harsh, also, and turn counterproductive in not being well received by someone who requires a more gentle approach of loving charity, which is also a preaching of gospel truth in action.

Also, recognize that some of his preaching is mere opinion and personal interpretation on issues. So that can play a part, too. There are those who don’t believe in every jot and tittle of the Gospel according to John Corapi.

Oh yes, he is harsh. Even as someone who likes him, I can acknowledge that. He’s all about urgency. (And as a former fallen Catholic, I…personally… needed that).

But he does bring back Catholics. And those who dislike him can easily shut him out. (Though based on his speaking engagements, I think his fan base is growing).

But I see no shortage of priests (my own parish priest for one) who can offer alternative approaches to capturing converts and returning Catholics. If anything, I think Fr. Corapi offers a much needed balance for those, like me, who needed the direct approach (I wasn’t hearing anything from the camp of subtlety…honestly).

I for one am indebted. *(I’m assuming since you never defined it, that I am that “certain type of Catholic”…so be it). It’s probably a warranted critique (but I think you should just IM with your definition, if you like, so that I get your implication. It won’t offend).

His “jots and titlles” can be ignored, if by that you mean his “opinions”. We are not bound, as Catholics, to adhere to opinion. Many a priest and bishop have plenty of those. And personally, I’m pretty good at recognizing when someone strays from catechism into “opinion”, so there is only one Gospel I subscribe to. Though granted, some may not be as observant.

However, I’m pretty sure his explanations of the Catholic catechism itself are pretty reliable and informative.

Here’s to hoping that there’s no Catholic disregarded.

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[RosalieM]

Still, I cannot find it in my heart to condone hunting and from the sound of your response, neither can you.

 

[Mirror_Mirror]

I don’t know what to make of this. Father Corapi has given me much insight into the Catechism and I’ve learned a lot from him. But seeing him with the dead bear has me perplexed. I love all God’s creatures. I even prayed for the poor bear. It was, after all, the bear’s home, its habitat. It wasn’t attacking him. Why destroy such a magnificent creature? I wish he hadn’t done that. I strongly disapprove of his hunting and killing the bear and I pray he’s not doing it anymore. I’m even going to ask about it on his website. I respect Fr. Corapi; but cannot accept the destruction of God’s creatures.

So if you had never seen the pic of him with the bear your opinion of him would be?

 

[RosalieM]

If I hadn’t seen him in the photo with the bear, I would praise him to the skies for his candor, insight and talent for preaching. I’d thank him for the wealth of material he has given to the world and his strong influence on my conversion. I am grateful to him for all he has taught me and all he has accomplished and given to the world.
(I just can’t accept the destruction of poor hapless animals minding their own business in their wilderness habitat; even by an accomplished and admirable fellow like Fr. Corapi.)

 

[Mirror_Mirror]

If I hadn’t seen him in the photo with the bear, I would praise him to the skies for his candor, insight and talent for preaching. I’d thank him for the wealth of material he has given to the world and his strong influence on my conversion. I am grateful to him for all he has taught me and all he has accomplished and given to the world.
(I just can’t accept the destruction of poor hapless animals minding their own business in their wilderness habitat; even by an accomplished and admirable fellow like Fr. Corapi.)

None of the things that you would “praise” him for have changed because he chose to participate in an outdorr adventure that you disagree with. What he chose to do with his time broke no laws and did not go against what the Church teaches. (do not say thou shall not kill cause that is not a valid arguement simply disregared when God told us to have dominion over animals) You view of him and his mission should not have changed based upon the picture. Again, you are entitled to your opinion, I just have a hard time coming close to agreeing with you.

 

[chicago]

Oh yes, he is harsh. Even as someone who likes him, I can acknowledge that. He’s all about urgency. (And as a former fallen Catholic, I…personally… needed that).

But he does bring back Catholics. And those who dislike him can easily shut him out. (Though based on his speaking engagements, I think his fan base is growing).

But I see no shortage of priests (my own parish priest for one) who can offer alternative approaches to capturing converts and returning Catholics. If anything, I think Fr. Corapi offers a much needed balance for those, like me, who needed the direct approach (I wasn’t hearing anything from the camp of subtlety…honestly).

I would not in any way disagree with or disregard any of what you say here. Indeed, I found Fr. Corapi’s preaching personally of assitance about a dozen years ago (when seemingly no one knew who he was).

Where I do have some concern is that he is being raised to such a high podium, a certain “Cult of Corapi”, by many that a “my (or should I say his) way or the highway” mentality takes hold. Herein lies an overurgency which is not counterbalanced by respect for other factors and approaches. It comes off as, “What’s wrong with you? Why are you not a disciple of Corapi? You damned sinner!” Appreciation, love, affection for the man and his preaching is fine. Hyperdulia, however, disconcerting.

I for one am indebted. *(I’m assuming since you never defined it, that I am that “certain type of Catholic”…so be it). It’s probably a warranted critique (but I think you should just IM with your definition, if you like, so that I get your implication. It won’t offend).

I thought I did make this clear, already. I am referring to those (often who come from some form of Protestant experience) who seem to dismiss the value and importance of factors which they simplistically consider “emotive” or “entertainment” in worship, teaching, or what have you. They have often intellectualized the faith to a point that they do not respect the experience of faith which includes as of the essence those factors which might connect with someone on a level which moves them in some other way. Sometimes this comes as a counter-reaction to a form of worship and teaching which they were previously accostumed to and now eschew. It’s more of a dry, “This is truth; worship isn’t about us, it is about God” type of mentality that discounts factors which are less tangible, but nonethless real and worthy.

 

[melensdad]

Still, I cannot find it in my heart to condone hunting and from the sound of your response, neither can you.

Please re-read what I wrote. While I choose not to hunt, I absolutely do condone hunting. It is necessary for dozens of reasons, not the least of which is good stewardship.

But I find it interesting that you would base so much of your opinion of Father Corapi on that one issue. Certainly in your home city you see all sorts of sinful behavior but you levy a harsh judgement agaist a priest who is not sinning.

 

[RosalieM]

To Mirror Mirror,

True…not one bit of my high regard for him as an accomplished priest has changed. I wasn’t about to use “Thou shalt not Kill”. God gave us dominion over the animals, also true. That doesn’t mean we should hunt them down in this day and age. Outdoor adventure can be had without killing the inhabitants of the wilderness. Just because something isn’t illegal or isn’t against church teachings doesn’t mean it’s not questionable or wrong in some sense. Pope John Paul II said that animals have souls. I love St. Francis, the great friend of animals, and I love all creatures. And no, I don’t really eat much meat and what I do eat is limited to poultry and fish except for ham on Easter. Shall we agree to disagree?
Peace and all good,
Rosalie

 

[Mirror_Mirror]

To Mirror Mirror,

True…not one bit of my high regard for him as an accomplished priest has changed. I wasn’t about to use “Thou shalt not Kill”. God gave us dominion over the animals, also true. That doesn’t mean we should hunt them down in this day and age. Outdoor adventure can be had without killing the inhabitants of the wilderness. Just because something isn’t illegal or isn’t against church teachings doesn’t mean it’s not questionable or wrong in some sense. Pope John Paul II said that animals have souls. I love St. Francis, the great friend of animals, and I love all creatures. And no, I don’t really eat much meat and what I do eat is limited to poultry and fish except for ham on Easter. Shall we agree to disagree?
Peace and all good,
Rosalie

Agree to disagree.

 

[Brother_Joseph]

I am referring to those (often who come from some form of Protestant experience) who seem to dismiss the value and importance of factors which they simplistically consider “emotive” or “entertainment” in worship, teaching, or what have you. They have often intellectualized the faith to a point that they do not respect the experience of faith which includes as of the essence those factors which might connect with someone on a level which moves them in some other way. Sometimes this comes as a counter-reaction to a form of worship and teaching which they were previously accostumed to and now eschew. It’s more of a dry, “This is truth; worship isn’t about us, it is about God” type of mentality that discounts factors which are less tangible, but nonethless real and worthy.

Thanks.

Protestants have little problem “connecting”. I was not only a fallen Catholic, but a fallen Christian also.

A Protestant hospital chaplain brought me back to Christianity, and I love her for it (and still pray for her).

Father Corapi made me stop flipping the channels, and pay attention. He made me realize I was “almost” there, but not quite. Him too, I love for it.

Without him and Catholic radio, I may be doubting Catholicism still.

Enough initial credit to go around, I think…

Thanks again…
.

 

[Tig]

Yes. Like him. Haven’t read all posts but apparently he went hunting huh. Ok. Any one who eats meat need not complain. I love meat soo.
Father speaks his mind and I like that. What I need and I do believe too many Priests nowadays are to afraid or whatever to say it the way it is. Gentle or in your face, the truth or the way it is should be told.

-Peace-

 

[pink]

never heard of him