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Harry Potter Wants to Know 11/8/2011
Harry Potter Wants to Know:

Would You Enroll Your Catholic Kids at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry?


Hollywood loves Harry, and so do millions of children. Since the release of the first novel Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, J. K. Rowling’s books have gained monumental commercial success worldwide. As of June 2011, the book series has sold about 450 million copies and has been translated into 67 languages, and the last four books consecutively set records as the fastest-selling books in history.

But there’s a dark side to Harry Potter, which has led to intense criticism from Christian critics who are concerned over the increasingly dark tone and multitudinous occult references in the books. Even the current Holy Father has expressed disapproval.  And Rowling herself has admitted that the main theme of the Harry Potter series is death.

So, is Harry Christian-friendly or not? You’ve heard the back-and-forth from women’s groups and mothers; you’ve read the outright condemnations by Protestants critics.  But isn’t it time Catholic men and fathers weigh in on this controversy surrounding one of the most popular children’s books in this history of the human race?

Obviously, Catholic men need to know something about Harry.

Don’t miss the next Argument of the Month in which Julian Ahlquist of the Chesterton Academy will argue that Harry Potter is Christian-themed fantasy reading for our kids and grandkids, while Catholic newspaper publisher Michael Matt will attempt to demonstrate that it is fundamentally anti-Christian, if not introductory level indoctrination in the occult, and thus a very real threat to family life.

On the second Tuesday in November, two serious Catholic men will add their voices to this important cultural debate.

What's on the Menu
Appetizer
Spinach Dip
This dip is a blend of two types of cheese, spinach, roasted garlic and spices. Then we top it off with another layer of cheese and bake it until golden brown.
Dinner
Robust Red Sauce over Spaghetti Pasta
This spicy and very robust tomato sauce is bursting with sausage, onions, bell peppers, mushrooms and brought to perfection with a little red wine. Served over a bed of pasta.
Cheese Covered Garlic Herb Bread and Caesar Salad as a side.
Dessert
Brownies and Ice Cream
Fresh Baked Ghirardelli Double Chocolate Brownies and Ice Cream

AOTM General Event Information
4:00pm Social Hour and Appetizers
5:10pm Rosary in the Church
5:30pm Traditional Latin Mass
7:00pm Dinner
7:30pm Main Presentation/Debate
9:30pm Wrap Up

Adult General Admission: $20 and
Minor General Admission: $15 (Sons under 21).

Come share conversation, refreshments and appetizers with other guys then enjoy a fabulous "Manly Meal”. After that, listen to a great debate on the things that matter most. Men of all creeds and ages are welcome to join in the good humor, food, and fellowship. Priests and seminarians get in free but will not be shown partiality in debate. Fathers are encouraged to bring their minor sons.

Audio Files
Title Speaker(s) Date Type Format Download
Harry Potter Wants to Know Michael Matt, Julian Ahlquist 11/08/2011 Talk/Debate MP3 Download
Harry Potter Wants to Know Michael Matt, Julian Ahlquist 11/08/2011 Q&A MP3 Download

Event Speakers

Michael Matt


Julian Ahlquist


Pine Valley Associates, Inc.
Dan Selner
(651) 994-9550
PVA provides expertise in software development, user experience, communications strategy, Search Engine Optimization (SEO), Internet marketing and systems integration to provide innovative, quality solutions and deliver superior customer satisfaction.