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I'll try to be relatively brief and relatively on-topic. -I'm well aware that some Christians posit Mary as a "mediatrix"- that is, a mediator between God and man, and a co-mediator with Jesus. For those of us who believe the verse that there is ONE God and ONE mediator between God and man, and that mediator is "the man Christ Jesus", this doctrine is nothing less than error. I'm aware that Pope John Paul II declared it during the Marian Year in the 1980s, when he dedicated an entire year to Mary. I liked the man, but in this he was just plain wrong. -I'm aware that the usual argument for Mary worship is that "adoration" and "worship" are two different things, that "worship" is directed at God, and "adoration" is directed at Mary, saints, etc. I consider the distinction mere sophistry. In "adoration", prayers are being directed to a person, and statues are made of them, where one prays, lights candles, and offers devotions. That's "worship" with a few cosmetic distinctions even a lawyer would have trouble making stick. If someone made a statue of Zeus, knelt before it, prayed before it, lit candles before it, and offered devotions to Zeus at it, you'd say they were "worshipping" Zeus- and you'd be correct. -It was in Vatican II in the 1950s when the doctrine of "The Assumption" was codified. The then-Pope declared that Mary never died- he said she had ascended to heaven, where she was made "queen of heaven." (His term, not mine.) Obviously, I can't buy into any of that. -I'm also aware that some people have said that Mary is related to all three members of the Trinity- as the mother of the Son, the daughter of the Father, and the spouse of the Holy Spirit. Not aware of this? Pope John Paul II said as much in L'Osservatore Romano. You can read the official English translation here: https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/library/marys-relationship-with-the-trinity-8027 If you're on board with these doctrines, we'll have to agree to disagree. I do not mind interacting with Catholics, but I'm not going to sign on to all their doctrines. I don't have to get on their case about them, either.

A dissenting point of view is on this page: https://www.bibletools.org/index.cfm/fuseaction/Topical.show/RTD/cgg/ID/3051/Veneration-of-Mary.htm In the interests of polite discussion, I won't paste the contents, but they speak for themselves.

https://uscatholic.org/articles/201405/why-do-catholics-venerate-mary/ In 2005 in Chicago, a young woman was driving home from work and looked at the wall of an underpass where she saw an image of the Virgin Mary. For a short while, “Our Lady of the Underpass” became national news and a local pilgrimage site. Where some saw a miraculous image, however, others saw a mere salt stain. Although the excitement has died down, there are still those who ensure that the underpass remains adorned with candles, flowers, and a makeshift altar. There are thousands of stories like this. Some Marian shrines become permanent pilgrimage sites, such as Lourdes and Medjugorje. Others simply fade away. The veneration and adoration of Mary is as old as the church itself. The earliest record of Mary’s veneration probably comes from the Third Ecumenical Council at Ephesus in A.D. 431. There church fathers affirmed Mary as the Theotokos, or God-bearer. The title stuck, and today we refer to her as the “Mother of God.” This designation of Mary as the mother of God is really at the root of Roman Catholic veneration. Mary is the link between our broken humanity and the boundless divinity present in the triune God. Mary is redeemed, as she is human, but she is also considered to have a special and unique relationship with God, as she shares DNA with Christ. Mother Teresa once remarked, “She gave Jesus his body, and his body is what saved us.” In the many years since 431, Mary has come to occupy a powerful place in Roman Catholic spirituality. She has many faces and innumerable names, among them Our Lady of Guadalupe, She Who Ripens the Wheat, Queen of Angels, and the Light Cloud of Heavenly Rain. She is said to appear on occasion, mostly to children or others who are weak, disempowered, or on the margins of society. She is said, in some cases, to procure miracles. Some have even said that in the last days, Mary will lead the army of angels in the final battle against evil. But all of the titles and all of the miracles are considered to be a result of Mary’s close relationship with her son, Jesus. As mother of the King of Kings, she is the saint of saints. Furthermore, because the church is the body of Christ, and Mary is Christ’s mother, she is also the mother of the church. This means that in addition to having a special relationship with Jesus, Mary also has a special relationship with the church. She belongs to the church and the church belongs to her. So when we pray the rosary, or bow our heads during the creed, we are honoring our mother, and the mother of our Lord. Although she is not God, she has earned our respect and devotion.

Since you asked, I'll post what iAsk said on the matter- and 2 other sources rather than just relying on a machine. "In religious discussions, what is Mary veneration?" Mary veneration, particularly within the Catholic Church, refers to the practice of honoring Mary, the mother of Jesus, with special reverence and devotion. This practice is distinct from the worship (latria) reserved for God alone, and is instead categorized as hyperdulia, a higher form of veneration (dulia) given to other saints.[1] [3] According to www.iAsk.Ai - Ask AI: The theological basis for Mary veneration stems from her unique role in salvation history as the Mother of God (Theotokos), a title affirmed at the Council of Ephesus in 431 CE.[1] [2] [3] [5] Catholics believe that Mary's "yes" to God's plan, as recorded in the Gospel of Luke, made the Incarnation possible, thus making her a crucial figure in the process of salvation and redemption.[1] [3] [5] Key Aspects of Mary Veneration: Distinction from Worship: The Catholic Church explicitly distinguishes veneration from adoration or worship. Adoration is due only to the Triune God, while veneration is an honor given to Mary due to her unique privileges and role in God's plan.[1] [3] [5] Protestants often accuse Catholics of "Mariolatry" (Mary-worship), but Catholics deny this, emphasizing the difference between hyperdulia (highest veneration for Mary) and latria (worship for God).[5] [6] Biblical Foundations: Proponents of Mary veneration point to biblical passages such as the Angel Gabriel's greeting to Mary as "highly favored" and Elizabeth's exclamation, "Blessed are you among women," as scriptural support for her special honor.[3] [5] Her presence at the beginning and end of Jesus' public ministry, including at the foot of the Cross, is also cited as evidence of her cooperation in salvation.[1] [3] Historical Development: The practice of Mary veneration developed gradually over centuries. Early Christian art from the 2nd century depicts Mary as the mother of Jesus.[1] [2] The theological emphasis on Mary grew in response to heresies like Docetism, which questioned Jesus' humanity. The concept of Mary as the "Second Eve," who reversed the disobedience of the first Eve through her faithfulness, emerged in the 2nd century with figures like Justin Martyr and Irenaeus.[1] [2] The official endorsement of "Theotokos" (Mother of God) at the Council of Ephesus in 431 CE marked a significant turning point, leading to increased emphasis on Mary and the dedication of churches in her honor.[1] [2] Forms of Veneration: Mary veneration encompasses various devotions, including prayers, pious acts, visual arts, poetry, and music.[1] Common practices include: Prayers: The "Hail Mary" is a prominent prayer, incorporating biblical greetings from Gabriel and Elizabeth.[1] [5] Other prayers include the "Salve Regina," "Magnificat," and the "Angelus."[1] Feast Days: Numerous Marian feast days are celebrated throughout the liturgical year, some of which are holy days of obligation, such as the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, Mary, Mother of God, and the Assumption.[1] Titles: A wide array of titles are used to honor Mary, such as "Mother of God," "Queen of Heaven," "Star of the Sea," and "Mother of All Sorrows."[1] Art and Music: Marian art, particularly the "Madonna and Child," is a central icon in Christian art. Marian hymns and antiphons are also integral to liturgical and devotional practices.[1] Devotions: Popular devotions include the Rosary, the wearing of scapulars, and Marian pilgrimages to shrines like Lourdes, Fatima, and Guadalupe.[1] [5] Role as Intercessor: Catholics view Mary as a powerful intercessor with her Son, Jesus. They believe that through her compassion and prayers, she can bring petitions to God.[1] [5] This is exemplified by the story of the Wedding at Cana, where Jesus performed his first miracle at Mary's request.[1] Marian Apparitions: Reported Marian apparitions, such as those at Lourdes and Fatima, have significantly influenced Marian devotion. While not required for belief, some apparitions have received official Church approval and are widely believed by Catholics.[1] Protestant Perspective: Protestants generally ceased the practice of Mary veneration during the Reformation, seeking to return to what they perceived as the basics of early Christianity and a radical emphasis on Scripture. They argue that the Bible does not explicitly command or model prayer to Mary or her elevated status beyond being Jesus' mother.[2] [6] In essence, Mary veneration in the Catholic Church is a deeply rooted practice that honors Mary as a unique and essential figure in Christian faith, distinct from the worship of God, and expressed through various devotional forms and theological understandings.[1] [3] [5] Authoritative Sources Veneration of Mary in the Catholic Church. [Wikipedia]↩ The History of Mary Veneration: A Protestant Prospective. [Classic Theology]↩ Why Do Catholics Veneration of Mary in the Catholic Church. [St. Peter's Catholic Church]↩ The Papacy for Orthodox Christians. [Exodus90]↩ Why Do Catholics Veneration Mary?. [Catholic Courier]↩ Mariolatry. [GotQuestions.org]↩ What Is Veneration? Is Mary Our Mother? Should Mary Be Venerated?. [The Catholic Blog]↩

I'll explain the error in doctrine. First of all, I'm using the term "veneration" since it's the least objectionable term for those who perform it. I could just as easily say "worship". Naturally, this would produce a subtopic of discussion. "Mrs Wolf has suggested to me previously (with merit, I believe) that Mary veneration, at least the modern type and much of what led to it, springs from the practice of Christianity being an Old Boys Club. Women can easily feel left out of things, and Mary veneration helps address that. My problem is that I feel that the usual methods of addressing that would be veneration of Mary (prayers to her, etc.) or veneration of female saints (prayers to them, etc.), and I find EITHER to be doctrinal error, at best. I think we may agree on the problem but not with the solution. I find Mary veneration to be a lazy solution to a deeper problem, one that calls for answers that are doctrinally sound while still addressing the problem. " I thought I was clear enough here, but I'll try to make it clearer, and I'll try to remain somewhat tactful. I think that the entire fuss over Mary- and any number of female saints- stems from a feeling of disenfranchisement felt by females concerning Christianity, and church, and so on. It's easy to portray Christianity as a religion that emphasizes men and marginalizes women. A case can be made for it. On paper, I don't think that's the case- we see women in the Gospels, and in Acts, and mentioned in the Epistles. In practice, I think it had often looked that way. Worse, in the pulpit, it's been that way at times- there have been men who've turned sermons to condemn bad things- and any number of them have blamed (scapegoated, really) women as those bad things, or their source, or their carriers, and so on. So, how do we address that? We can do it with sounder doctrine. Another way we can do that is faster. We can adopt some of the practices that the other religions have, and adulterate Christianity with them. (It can happen whether or not we mean to, of course.) We can adopt some of the "mother goddess" religious practices, and just direct them to Mary. This is also a cheap way to gain converts. If they can maintain their same practices but just swap the labels, they're more likely to adopt Christianity. If one's goal is numbers and retention, this is a good idea. If one's goal is doctrinal purity, this is a horrifying prospect. I do think it's a given that early Christians of the first few centuries DID end up adopting any number of practices and doctrines in use by practitioners of other religions at the time- either intentionally to gain converts, or accidentally by having converts join whose ideas slowly spread through the church. ("A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump.") So, their ideas on all sorts of things effected ideas of Christians, and in some cases, became doctrine. (It is outside the scope of this thread to get into all of them.) I think any number of ideas got attached to Mary in this fashion as well- some of them by well-meaning Christians. So, I think proper doctrine and proper teaching should accord women a more balanced role in the church- without having to offer prayers to Mary or anyone else. I think I answered the question while remaining reasonably tactful. I'm sure you'll let me know if I was unsuccessful.

"I'm not a regular fish eater but would like to begin." (Oldiesman) I thought another good question was worth asking, so I asked it that question. "If one wants to begin eating more fish and seafood, what are the healthiest options to add to one's diet?" "To incorporate more fish and seafood into a healthy diet, individuals should prioritize options that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, low in mercury, and sustainably sourced. These choices offer numerous health benefits, including improved heart and brain health, while minimizing environmental impact and potential contaminant exposure [1] [2] [3] [4]. According to www.iAsk.Ai - Ask AI: The healthiest options to add to one's diet include a variety of fish and shellfish, with a focus on those high in omega-3s and low in mercury, such as salmon, sardines, mackerel (Atlantic or Pacific chub), herring, rainbow trout, mussels, clams, and scallops. These options provide essential nutrients like protein, vitamins D and B12, iron, and phosphorus, which are crucial for overall well-being [1] [3] [5]. Fish High in Omega-3 Fatty Acids Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats that the body cannot produce on its own and must be obtained through diet. They are vital for heart health, reducing inflammation, supporting brain development, and potentially lowering the risk of cognitive decline and age-related macular degeneration [1] [3]. Salmon: Wild-caught Alaskan salmon is highly recommended for its high omega-3 content, low mercury levels, and sustainable fishing practices. Farmed Atlantic salmon can also be a good option, especially if sourced sustainably [3] [5] [6]. Canned salmon is a convenient and affordable alternative, offering similar nutritional benefits, including calcium [1] [6]. Sardines: These small, inexpensive fish are packed with omega-3s, vitamin D, and calcium (due to their edible bones). They are low in contaminants and are a sustainable choice [1] [5] [6]. Mackerel: Atlantic or Pacific chub mackerel are excellent sources of omega-3s. It's important to choose these lower-mercury varieties over king mackerel, which is high in mercury [1] [3] [6]. Herring: A staple in the Nordic Diet, herring is exceptionally rich in omega-3s, vitamin D, vitamin B12, selenium, and niacin. It is also a sustainable and affordable option [1] [5] [6]. Rainbow Trout: Often farmed sustainably, rainbow trout offers a good amount of omega-3s and has a milder flavor than salmon, making it a great alternative [3] [5] [6]. Lean Fish and Shellfish While fatty fish are prized for omega-3s, lean fish and shellfish also offer significant nutritional value, including high-quality protein and various vitamins and minerals, with generally lower fat content [1] [3]. Cod: This flaky white fish is a good source of phosphorus, niacin, and vitamin B12, providing 15-20 grams of protein per 3-ounce serving [3]. Hake: A white fish that is an excellent source of protein and low in saturated fat. Look for hake with the blue MSC label for sustainable sourcing [4]. Perch: With a mild taste and medium texture, perch is another healthy white fish option [3]. Mahi-Mahi (Dolphinfish): A firm, tropical fish that is versatile in cooking. When choosing mahi-mahi, opt for those caught in the U.S. and Ecuador with troll lines for better sustainability [3] [6]. Clams: Whether wild-caught or farm-raised, clams are environmentally friendly and rich in protein, magnesium, potassium, and iron [4] [5]. Mussels: These shellfish are highly sustainable, affordable, and a good source of selenium and vitamin B12 [5]. They also filter and clean the water they are farmed in, offering environmental benefits [5]. Scallops: Protein-dense, low in fat, and rich in vitamin B12 and omega-3 fatty acids, scallops are generally good for the environment [4]. Squid (Calamari): High in protein (around 18 grams per four-ounce serving), vitamin C, calcium, and iron, squid is a versatile and healthy seafood option with a mild flavor and firm texture [4]. Fish to Limit or Avoid Some fish should be limited or avoided due to high mercury levels or unsustainable fishing practices, especially for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals and young children [1] [3] [6]. High-Mercury Fish: Swordfish, king mackerel, orange roughy, big-eye tuna, shark, and tilefish are generally high in mercury and should be consumed sparingly or avoided [1] [3] [6]. Certain Tuna Varieties: While canned light tuna (skipjack) is a good low-mercury option, yellowfin, albacore, and ahi tuna should be limited due to higher mercury content [1] [3]. Farmed Salmon (in open-net pens): Some farmed salmon practices, particularly those in open-net pens, can raise concerns about parasites, diseases, and environmental pollution. However, freshwater-farmed salmon and some open-net systems with better practices can be good alternatives [6]. Sustainable and Budget-Friendly Options To make fish more accessible and environmentally conscious, consider these tips: Canned and Packaged Fish: Tuna, sardines, and anchovies in cans or pouches are convenient, have a long shelf life, and are excellent sources of protein and omega-3s [1]. Farm-Raised Fish: While wild-caught is often preferred for sustainability, responsibly farmed fish can be more economical. Look for guidelines from organizations like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries for sustainable seafood [1] [4]. Smaller Fish and Bivalves: Choosing fish lower on the food chain, such as herring, sardines, clams, and oysters, benefits both cardiovascular health and the environment, as they generate fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to terrestrial animal proteins [5]. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends adults consume at least 8 ounces of fish per week, and pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should aim for 8 to 12 ounces per week of low-mercury options [1] [2]. Incorporating a variety of these healthy and sustainable seafood choices can significantly contribute to a well-balanced and nutritious diet [3]. Authoritative Sources Healthy Fish to Eat. [hopkinsmedicine.org]↩ Advice about Eating Fish. [fda.gov]↩ The 11 Best Fish to Eat. [healthline.com]↩ 5 of the Healthiest Seafood Options You Should Eat Today. [panapesca.com]↩ Seafood selections that help your heart — and our planet. [health.harvard.edu]↩ 5 of the Healthiest Fish to Eat (and 5 to Avoid). [eatingwell.com]↩ How to Choose the Healthiest Seafood (for You and the Environment). [silversneakers.com]↩ Best and Worst Fish for Your Health. [webmd.com]↩ Answer Provided by iAsk.ai – Ask AI.

I asked the same source about whether or not anchovies were a good choice of fish to add to a diet if one was increasing their fish intake. The answer, overall, was positive. However, it did include the following caveat, which is important to consider especially as one gets older... "While anchovies are nutritious, it's important to consider their sodium content, especially when consumed in canned or cured forms.[12] Rinsing canned anchovies before consumption can help reduce sodium levels.[13] For individuals with high blood pressure or those monitoring sodium intake, fresh or lightly salted anchovies might be preferable." Overall, it sounded like a good food to add- in moderation, and with one's sodium level in mind. "In summary, incorporating anchovies into an everyday diet offers a wealth of nutritional advantages, including high levels of omega-3s, protein, and various essential vitamins and minerals, all within a sustainable and low-mercury package." It's no joke to be concerned about one's sodium levels. If your doctor already has you watching them, you may need to radically alter your current diet to remove a lot of sodium if you want to add anchovies at all. Oh, and make sure you can stand the flavor before buying, say, one gross of jars of the stuff. Some foods are a good idea on paper but are unpalatable.

I am reminded to rewatch Beverly Hills Cop (1984). What fun!

Like I said..."The heat is on..."

Yes, thank you...

Ok?

Korean cuisine has tons of fish and seafood options, including multiple ways to use sardines.

Oldies, check out this article on cooking with anchovies. https://www.seriouseats.com/what-to-do-with-anchovies If you’re interested in tinned fish in general for the health benefits, here are two excellent articles diving deeper than AI. https://www.seriouseats.com/where-to-buy-tinned-fish-online-7562948 https://www.seriouseats.com/canned-sardines-love-letter-11806834

"I'll go with Paul Lynde for the win." George

Thank Raf. Also if you would, please change the name of this thread to "Mary Veneration" as you suggested earlier....and if you feel like starting a thread debunking "Mary Veneration" please do so and I will read your side of the story. Thx...

You were the closest, bean. Your turn, if you want it.

And THIS is why this post had to be removed from ATHEISM/Questioning Faith. Because as an unbeliever I would have torn this to shreds. But believers should feel comfortable discussing it without worrying about what unbelievers think, which, let's be honest, if kinda predictable.

Yah, necessary ;)

I'm not a regular fish eater but would like to begin. Someone told me about anchovies, so I did a search in iASK and this is what I received back. All comments welcome, thx. How to start eating anchovies? To incorporate anchovies into your diet for health benefits, the best way to start is by choosing high-quality, oil-packed anchovies and introducing them gradually into dishes where their flavor can blend, such as sauces, dressings, or as a topping, rather than consuming them plain initially. This approach allows you to acclimate to their unique taste while still reaping their nutritional advantages [1] [2] [3]. According to www.iAsk.Ai - Ask AI: Anchovies are small, nutrient-dense fish that offer a wealth of health benefits, including being rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and various vitamins and minerals [1] [2]. They are a staple in the Mediterranean diet and are praised by chefs for their umami-boosting properties [1] [3] [4]. Understanding Anchovy Varieties and Flavor The taste of anchovies can vary significantly depending on their processing method [1]. Cured anchovies, often packed in oil or salt, tend to have a strong, salty, and pungent flavor [1] [2]. Fresh anchovies or those pickled in vinegar are generally milder [1]. For beginners, starting with oil-packed anchovies is often recommended as they are ready-to-eat and can be more palatable than salt-packed varieties, which require rinsing and soaking [2] [3]. High-quality anchovies are described as tender, meaty, with a silky texture and clean brininess, contrasting with "shoddy products" that can be overly salty [3]. Brands like Agostina Recca, Cento, Don Bocarte, Ortiz, Nettuno, and Scalia are often recommended for their quality [5]. Nutritional Benefits to Expect Anchovies are a nutritional powerhouse. A 2-ounce (45-gram) serving canned in oil provides 95 calories, 13 grams of protein, 4 grams of fat, and 0 grams of carbohydrates [1]. They are an excellent source of: Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA and DHA): A 2-ounce serving can provide 924 mg of combined EPA and DHA, which is more than the same amount of salmon [1]. These fatty acids are crucial for heart health, helping to improve blood pressure, cholesterol, and reduce the risk of heart disease [1] [2] [6]. They also play a vital role in brain health, supporting cell formation and function, and may reduce the risk of cognitive decline [1] [2]. Protein: With 13-20.4 grams per serving, anchovies contribute to muscle repair, immune function, and can aid in weight management by promoting satiety [1] [2] [6]. Vitamins: They are rich in Vitamin B3 (niacin), essential for converting food into energy, and Vitamin B12, important for blood cell health and nerve function [1] [2] [6]. They also contain Vitamin D [3]. Minerals: Anchovies provide significant amounts of selenium, which supports heart, thyroid, immune, and bone health, and iron, necessary for oxygen transport [1] [2] [6]. They also contain calcium for strong bones, potassium, and zinc [1] [2]. Low Mercury Content: Due to their position lower on the food chain, anchovies have a lower mercury content compared to larger fish, making them a safer choice for frequent consumption [3] [6]. Diabetic-Friendly: Their omega-3s can help reduce insulin resistance, and their zero carbohydrate content means they don't cause an insulin release, making them a good option for diabetics [2]. Best Ways to Incorporate Anchovies To ease into eating anchovies, consider these methods: Melted into Sauces: This is a popular method as the anchovies dissolve, adding a deep umami flavor without an overpowering "fishy" taste [4] [6]. They are excellent in tomato sauces, pasta puttanesca, or even in a simple olive oil and garlic base for vegetables [3] [4] [6]. Dressings and Dips: Anchovies are a key ingredient in classic Caesar salad dressing, where they provide a savory tang [3] [4] [6]. They can also be blended into tapenades, green goddess dressing, or bagna cauda, a warm Italian dip [4] [6]. Flavor Booster for Meats and Vegetables: Minced anchovies can be added to marinades for lamb, beef, or chicken, enhancing their savory notes [3] [6]. They can also be sautéed with vegetables like cauliflower or broccoli rabe [3] [6]. Toppings (Gradual Introduction): While some enjoy anchovies straight from the tin on toast or pizza, a milder introduction might be to use them sparingly as a topping on dishes where other strong flavors are present [3] [6]. Anchovy Butter: Mashing anchovy fillets into softened butter creates a flavorful condiment for bread, grilled meats, or roasted vegetables [3] [6]. Important Considerations Sodium Content: Most processed anchovies are high in sodium. A 2-ounce serving can provide 72% of the Daily Value [1]. Rinsing salt-packed anchovies before use can help reduce sodium [1] [2]. Individuals with high blood pressure or other related health conditions should monitor their intake [1] [2]. Parasitic Infection: Consuming raw anchovies increases the risk of parasitic infection (anisakiasis). It is recommended to consume fully cooked anchovies if possible [1]. Domoic Acid Contamination: Anchovies may be contaminated with domoic acid, which can lead to amnesic shellfish poisoning (ASP) [1]. By starting with small amounts in cooked dishes and gradually exploring different preparations, you can successfully integrate anchovies into your diet and enjoy their significant health benefits [3] [4] [6]. Authoritative Sources Anchovy Nutrition: Benefits, Downsides, and How to Eat Them. [Healthline]↩ The Nutritional Benefits of Anchovies. [Patagonia Provisions]↩ Anchovies Are Good for You. [Men's Health]↩ The Health Benefits of Anchovies and How to Cook With Them. [HuffPost]↩ Benefits of Anchovies: Nutritious and Delicious. [Gustiamo]↩ Anchovy Fillets: A Gourmet Staple with Endless Possibilities. [Chenab Gourmet]↩ Answer Provided by iAsk.ai – Ask AI.

That's it.

This was in today's church bulletin and thought it would be appropriate to discuss inside this thread: Seven Sorrows of the Blessed Virgin Mary The seven sorrows of the Blessed Virgin Mary, also known as Our Lady of Sorrows or Mater Dolorosa, are significant events in Mary's life that caused her profound grief and are a popular devotion in the Catholic Church. These sorrows are frequently depicted in art and are distinct from the five Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary [1] [2]. According to www.iAsk.Ai - Ask AI: The traditional seven sorrows are: The Prophecy of Simeon: When Mary and Joseph presented the infant Jesus at the Temple, Simeon prophesied to Mary, "And you yourself a sword will pierce" (Luke 2:35), indicating the future suffering she would endure because of her son [3] [4] [5]. This prophecy foreshadowed the immense pain Mary would experience throughout Jesus' life and passion [6]. The Flight into Egypt: Warned by an angel in a dream that King Herod intended to kill Jesus, Joseph took Mary and the child and fled to Egypt to escape the persecution (Matthew 2:13-14) [3] [4] [5]. This forced journey into a foreign land brought hardship and fear to the Holy Family [6]. The Loss of the Child Jesus in the Temple: When Jesus was twelve years old, Mary and Joseph lost him for three days during their return journey from Jerusalem after the Passover feast. They found him in the Temple, listening to and questioning the teachers (Luke 2:43-50) [3] [4] [5]. This period of anxious searching caused Mary great distress [6]. Mary Meets Jesus on the Way to Calvary: As Jesus carried his cross to his crucifixion, Mary met him on the Via Dolorosa. This encounter, though not explicitly detailed in the Gospels, is a traditional Fourth Station of the Cross, depicting her immense sorrow at seeing her son's suffering and humiliation [3] [4] [5] [7]. The Crucifixion of Jesus: Mary stood at the foot of the cross as Jesus was crucified (John 19:25-27) [3] [4] [5]. Witnessing her son's agonizing death was an unspeakable sorrow, fulfilling Simeon's prophecy [6]. Jesus' Body is Taken Down from the Cross: After Jesus' death, his body was taken down from the cross and placed in Mary's arms, a scene often depicted in art as the Pietà (Mark 15:42-46) [3] [4] [5]. This moment represented profound grief as she held her lifeless son [6]. The Burial of Jesus: Mary witnessed the burial of Jesus in the tomb (John 19:38-42) [3] [4] [5]. This final act of laying her son to rest brought immense sorrow and a sense of finality, though her faith in God's plan remained [6]. Devotion to Our Lady of Sorrows has a long history, particularly gaining prominence around the 11th century in Western Christianity [2]. The Servite Order, founded in 1233, significantly contributed to the spread of this devotion, developing practices such as the Rosary of the Seven Sorrows and the Black Scapular of the Seven Dolours of Mary [2] [8]. The feast of Our Lady of Sorrows is celebrated liturgically every September 15th [1] [4]. Authoritative Sources Our Lady of Sorrows. [Wikipedia]↩ Memorial of Our Lady of Sorrows. [Vatican News]↩ The Seven Sorrows of Mary. [Catholic Relief Services]↩ The Seven Sorrows of Mary. [Franciscan Media]↩ What are the 7 Sorrows of Mary? [Aleteia]↩ Seven Sorrows of our Blessed Mother. [Our Lady of the Rosary Library]↩ The Seven Sorrows for Today. [Boston College Church in the 21st Century Center]↩ Our Lady's Seven Sorrows, Seven Promises, and Fatima's Connection. [National Catholic Register]↩ Answer Provided by iAsk.ai – Ask AI.

Perhaps because of a pervasive practice of sexual predation and depravity? That's what I was getting at. Perhaps my post above also was too ambiguous.

So, Raf is up. George

"To love is to suffer. To avoid suffering one must not love. But then one suffers from not loving. Therefore, to love is to suffer; not to love is to suffer; to suffer is to suffer. To be happy is to love. To be happy, then, is to suffer, but suffering makes one unhappy. Therefore, to be unhappy, one must love or love to suffer or suffer from too much happiness. I hope you're getting this down." "You are the greatest lover I've ever had." "Well, I practice a lot when I'm alone." George