'Tis the feast of Saint Balbina, Virgin & Martyr (died circa 130), martyred under the emperor Hadrian: Martyr-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Tis also the feast of Saint Benjamin, Deacon & Martyr (died circa 424), martyred under the shah Bahram V: Martyr-link & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Acts of the Apostles, chapter three, verses eleven thru twenty-six;
Psalm Eight, verses two(a,b) & five thru nine;
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter twenty-four, verses thirty-five thru forty-eight.
Personal Reading
Commentary to the Holy Saturday: Easter Vigil readings.
Thursday, March 31, 2016
The Rebel Black Dot Songs of the Day
The Temptations, "Shout" via iTunes (The Last Angry Man)
Commentary: This rendition of "Shout" begins with a brief audio excerpt from the motion picture Animal House, even though the Temptations were not the band to portray the fictional Otis Day & the Knights in the film. I don't mind this—catching a few minutes of Animal House on television the other night is the reason "Shout" is today's R.B.D.S.O.T.D.—I just find it curious.
Mittwoch, 30. März
Fountains of Wayne, "Denise" from Utopia Parkway (The Last Angry Man)
Commentary:
Commentary: This rendition of "Shout" begins with a brief audio excerpt from the motion picture Animal House, even though the Temptations were not the band to portray the fictional Otis Day & the Knights in the film. I don't mind this—catching a few minutes of Animal House on television the other night is the reason "Shout" is today's R.B.D.S.O.T.D.—I just find it curious.
Mittwoch, 30. März
Fountains of Wayne, "Denise" from Utopia Parkway (The Last Angry Man)
Commentary:
"I know this girl named Denise,
She makes me weak at the knees…
"I heard she used to be married,
She listens to Puff Daddy,
She works at Liberty Travel,
She got a heart made of gravel.
"(Sha-la-la-la-la-la-la!)
She controls me,
(Sha-la-la-la-la-la-la!)
She can't help herself…"
Wednesday, March 30, 2016
BLACK MAMBA: Octave of Easter — Backlog Edition
Monday, 28 March was the feast of Saint Sixtus III, Pope (died 440): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Twas also the feast of Saint Hesychius of Jerusalem, Priest (died circa 450): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Acts of the Apostles, chapter two, verses fourteen & twenty-two thru thirty-three;
Psalm Sixteen, verses one thru two(a), five, & seven thru eleven;
The Gospel according to Matthew, chapter twenty-eight, verses eight thru fifteen.
* * * * *
Tuesday, 29 March was the feast of Saints Gwladys & Gwynllyw, Hermits (circa 450-500, A.K.A. Gladys & Woolos the Bearded): Saint-link Her & Saint-link Him, Wikipedia-link Her & Wikipedia-link Him.
Commentary: Ss. Gwladys & Gwynllyw—wife & husband, queen & king, pirates both—are perfect fits for a desired second volume of Saints Behaving Badly. Thomas J. Craughwell, get cracking!
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Acts of the Apostles, chapter two, verses thirty-six thru forty-one;
Psalm Thirty-three, verses four, five, eighteen thru twenty, & twenty-two;
The Gospel according to John, chapter twenty, verses eleven thru eighteen.
Personal Reading
Commentary to the Friday of the Passion of the Lord (Good Friday) readings.
* * * * *
Today is the feast of Blessed Amadeus IX (1435-1472, A.K.A. the Happy), Duke of Savoy: Blessed-link & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
'Tis also the feast of Saint Ludovico of Casoria, Priest, O.F.M. (1814-1885): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Acts of the Apostles, chapter three, verses one thru ten;
Psalm One Hundred Five, verses one thru four & six thru nine;
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter twenty-four, verses thirteen thru thirty-five.
Personal Reading
Commentary to the Holy Saturday: Easter Vigil readings.
Commentary: Those of us who serve as readers of the Word (often incorrectly identified as "lectors") are given a workbook with the liturgical year's readings for Sundays, major feasts, & holy days of obligation. I habitually read the Sunday readings & the commentary on the same, even in those weeks when I am not reading aloud at Mass. The readings for the Triduum are more numerous than for a typical Sunday, & I was busier than usual with the multiple liturgies of the Triduum, so I'm playing catch-up. I aim to resume reading Exodus as soon as "we're in now, now."
'Twas also the feast of Saint Hesychius of Jerusalem, Priest (died circa 450): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Acts of the Apostles, chapter two, verses fourteen & twenty-two thru thirty-three;
Psalm Sixteen, verses one thru two(a), five, & seven thru eleven;
The Gospel according to Matthew, chapter twenty-eight, verses eight thru fifteen.
* * * * *
Tuesday, 29 March was the feast of Saints Gwladys & Gwynllyw, Hermits (circa 450-500, A.K.A. Gladys & Woolos the Bearded): Saint-link Her & Saint-link Him, Wikipedia-link Her & Wikipedia-link Him.
Commentary: Ss. Gwladys & Gwynllyw—wife & husband, queen & king, pirates both—are perfect fits for a desired second volume of Saints Behaving Badly. Thomas J. Craughwell, get cracking!
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Acts of the Apostles, chapter two, verses thirty-six thru forty-one;
Psalm Thirty-three, verses four, five, eighteen thru twenty, & twenty-two;
The Gospel according to John, chapter twenty, verses eleven thru eighteen.
Personal Reading
Commentary to the Friday of the Passion of the Lord (Good Friday) readings.
* * * * *
Today is the feast of Blessed Amadeus IX (1435-1472, A.K.A. the Happy), Duke of Savoy: Blessed-link & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
'Tis also the feast of Saint Ludovico of Casoria, Priest, O.F.M. (1814-1885): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Acts of the Apostles, chapter three, verses one thru ten;
Psalm One Hundred Five, verses one thru four & six thru nine;
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter twenty-four, verses thirteen thru thirty-five.
Personal Reading
Commentary to the Holy Saturday: Easter Vigil readings.
Commentary: Those of us who serve as readers of the Word (often incorrectly identified as "lectors") are given a workbook with the liturgical year's readings for Sundays, major feasts, & holy days of obligation. I habitually read the Sunday readings & the commentary on the same, even in those weeks when I am not reading aloud at Mass. The readings for the Triduum are more numerous than for a typical Sunday, & I was busier than usual with the multiple liturgies of the Triduum, so I'm playing catch-up. I aim to resume reading Exodus as soon as "we're in now, now."
Tuesday, March 29, 2016
The Explorers' Club, № CDXC
Operation AXIOM: The World War
December 1915-July 1916: The Battle of Lake Tanganyika—The British dragged small motorboats overland from Cape Town to become H.M.S. Mimi & H.M.S. Toutou, captured the German gunboat S.M.S. Kingani & rechristened her H.M.S. Fifi, & sank the steamboat S.M.S. Hedwig von Wissmann; Belgian air attacks & changing fortunes in the fighting ashore forced the scuttling of the leviathan on the lake, the armed ferry S.M.S. Graf von Götzen.
Lest we forget.
Commentary: The fighting on & around Lake Tanganyika served as the inspiration for C. S. Forster's novel The African Queen, subsequently & brilliantly adapted to the screen by John Huston. The Graf von Götzen was raised after the war & still sails Tanganyika today, as the M.V. Liemba, pictured above.
December 1915-July 1916: The Battle of Lake Tanganyika—The British dragged small motorboats overland from Cape Town to become H.M.S. Mimi & H.M.S. Toutou, captured the German gunboat S.M.S. Kingani & rechristened her H.M.S. Fifi, & sank the steamboat S.M.S. Hedwig von Wissmann; Belgian air attacks & changing fortunes in the fighting ashore forced the scuttling of the leviathan on the lake, the armed ferry S.M.S. Graf von Götzen.
Lest we forget.
Commentary: The fighting on & around Lake Tanganyika served as the inspiration for C. S. Forster's novel The African Queen, subsequently & brilliantly adapted to the screen by John Huston. The Graf von Götzen was raised after the war & still sails Tanganyika today, as the M.V. Liemba, pictured above.
Project BLACK MAMBA: The Resurrection of the Lord
Saturday, 26 March was Holy Saturday: Easter Eve-link, Wikipedia-link Holy Saturday, & Wikipedia-link Easter Vigil.
Commentary: Wayback Machine. There is no Mass celebrated on Holy Saturday (except for extreme circumstances) 'til the Easter Vigil. We mourn the death of the Lord on Good Friday in hopeful expectation of His glorious Resurrection on Easter Sunday, which for liturgical purposes begins Saturday night. "Timey-wimey" would seem an applicable descriptor.
Otherwise, 26 March would have been the feast of Saint Ludger, Bishop (circa 742-809): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
'Twould also have been the feast of Blessed Maddalena Caterina Morano, Religious, F.M.A. (1847-1908): Blessed-link & Wikipedia-link.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings—Easter Vigil
I. The Book of Genesis, chapter one, verse one thru chapter two, verse two;
(or, the Book of Genesis, chapter one, verses one & twenty-six thru thirty-one[a]);
Psalm One Hundred Four, verses one, two, five, six, ten, twelve thru fourteen, twenty-four, & thirty-five;
or, Psalm Thirty-three, verses four thru seven, twelve, thirteen, & twenty thru twenty-two;
II. The Book of Genesis, chapter twenty-two, verses one thru eighteen;
(or, the Book of Genesis, chapter twenty-two, verses one, two, nine[a], ten thru thirteen & fifteen thru eighteen);
Psalm Sixteen, verses five & eight thru eleven;
III. The Book of Exodus, chapter fourteen, verse fifteen thru chapter fifteen, verse one;
The Book of Exodus, chapter fifteen, verses one thru six, seventeen, & eighteen;
IV. The Book of Isaiah, chapter fifty-four, verses five thru fourteen;
Psalm Thirty, verses two, four thru six, & eleven thru thirteen;
V. The Book of Isaiah, chapter fifty-five, verses one thru eleven;
The Book of Isaiah, chapter twelve, verses two thru six;
VI. The Book of Baruch, chapter three, verses nine thru fifteen & thirty-two thru chapter four, verse four;
Psalm Nineteen, verses eight thru eleven;
VII. The Book of Ezekiel, chapter thirty-six, verses sixteen thru seventeen(a) & eighteen thru twenty-eight;
Psalm Forty-two, verses three & five & Psalm Forty-three, verses three & four;
or, The Book of Isaiah, chapter twelve, verses two thru six;
or, Psalm Fifty-one, verses twelve thru fifteen, eighteen, & nineteen;
Epistle: The Letter to the Romans, chapter six, verses three thru eleven;
Psalm One Hundred Eighteen, verses one, two, sixteen, seventeen, twenty-two, & twenty-three;
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter twenty-four, verses one thru twelve.
* * * * *
Sunday, 27 March was the Solemnity of the Resurrection of the Lord: Pasch-link & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
Otherwise, 27 March would have been the feast of Blessed Francesco Faà di Bruno, Priest (1825-1888), founder of the Minim Sisters of Saint Zita: Blessed-link ūnus, Blessed-link duo, & Wikipedia-link; Wikipedia-link Sisters (Italian).
Scripture of the Week
Mass Readings—Easter Day
The Acts of the Apostles, chapter ten, verses thirty-four(a) & thirty-seven thru forty-three;
Psalm One Hundred Eighteen, verses one, two, sixteen, seventeen, twenty-two, & twenty-three;
The Letter to the Colossians, chapter three, verses one thru four;
or, The First Letter to the Corinthians, chapter five, verses six(b) thru eight;
Morning: The Gospel according to John, chapter twenty, verses one thru nine;
Afternoon: The Gospel according to Luke, chapter twenty-four, verses thirteen thru thirty-five.
Commentary: Wayback Machine. There is no Mass celebrated on Holy Saturday (except for extreme circumstances) 'til the Easter Vigil. We mourn the death of the Lord on Good Friday in hopeful expectation of His glorious Resurrection on Easter Sunday, which for liturgical purposes begins Saturday night. "Timey-wimey" would seem an applicable descriptor.
Otherwise, 26 March would have been the feast of Saint Ludger, Bishop (circa 742-809): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
'Twould also have been the feast of Blessed Maddalena Caterina Morano, Religious, F.M.A. (1847-1908): Blessed-link & Wikipedia-link.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings—Easter Vigil
I. The Book of Genesis, chapter one, verse one thru chapter two, verse two;
(or, the Book of Genesis, chapter one, verses one & twenty-six thru thirty-one[a]);
Psalm One Hundred Four, verses one, two, five, six, ten, twelve thru fourteen, twenty-four, & thirty-five;
or, Psalm Thirty-three, verses four thru seven, twelve, thirteen, & twenty thru twenty-two;
II. The Book of Genesis, chapter twenty-two, verses one thru eighteen;
(or, the Book of Genesis, chapter twenty-two, verses one, two, nine[a], ten thru thirteen & fifteen thru eighteen);
Psalm Sixteen, verses five & eight thru eleven;
III. The Book of Exodus, chapter fourteen, verse fifteen thru chapter fifteen, verse one;
The Book of Exodus, chapter fifteen, verses one thru six, seventeen, & eighteen;
IV. The Book of Isaiah, chapter fifty-four, verses five thru fourteen;
Psalm Thirty, verses two, four thru six, & eleven thru thirteen;
V. The Book of Isaiah, chapter fifty-five, verses one thru eleven;
The Book of Isaiah, chapter twelve, verses two thru six;
VI. The Book of Baruch, chapter three, verses nine thru fifteen & thirty-two thru chapter four, verse four;
Psalm Nineteen, verses eight thru eleven;
VII. The Book of Ezekiel, chapter thirty-six, verses sixteen thru seventeen(a) & eighteen thru twenty-eight;
Psalm Forty-two, verses three & five & Psalm Forty-three, verses three & four;
or, The Book of Isaiah, chapter twelve, verses two thru six;
or, Psalm Fifty-one, verses twelve thru fifteen, eighteen, & nineteen;
Epistle: The Letter to the Romans, chapter six, verses three thru eleven;
Psalm One Hundred Eighteen, verses one, two, sixteen, seventeen, twenty-two, & twenty-three;
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter twenty-four, verses one thru twelve.
* * * * *
Sunday, 27 March was the Solemnity of the Resurrection of the Lord: Pasch-link & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
Otherwise, 27 March would have been the feast of Blessed Francesco Faà di Bruno, Priest (1825-1888), founder of the Minim Sisters of Saint Zita: Blessed-link ūnus, Blessed-link duo, & Wikipedia-link; Wikipedia-link Sisters (Italian).
Scripture of the Week
Mass Readings—Easter Day
The Acts of the Apostles, chapter ten, verses thirty-four(a) & thirty-seven thru forty-three;
Psalm One Hundred Eighteen, verses one, two, sixteen, seventeen, twenty-two, & twenty-three;
The Letter to the Colossians, chapter three, verses one thru four;
or, The First Letter to the Corinthians, chapter five, verses six(b) thru eight;
Morning: The Gospel according to John, chapter twenty, verses one thru nine;
Afternoon: The Gospel according to Luke, chapter twenty-four, verses thirteen thru thirty-five.
The Rebel Black Dot Song of the Day
Echosmith, "Bright" via iTunes (The Last Angry Man)
Commentary:
Commentary:
"Days are good, and that's the way it should be…"
Monday, March 28, 2016
The Rebel Black Dot Song of the Day
Leon Bridges, "Better Man" from Coming Home (The Last Angry Man)
Commentary: Leon Bridges is a man out of time, & wonderfully so.
Commentary: Leon Bridges is a man out of time, & wonderfully so.
Sunday, March 27, 2016
The Rebel Black Dot Song of Easter Sunday
Matt Maher, "Because He Lives (Amen)" from Saints and Sinners (The Last Angry Man)
Commentary:
Commentary:
"I believe in the Son,
I believe in the Risen One,
I believe I overcome
By the power of His Blood.
"Amen! Amen!
I'm alive, I'm alive because He lives!
Amen! Amen!
Let my song join the one that never ends!
Because He lives!
"I was dead in the grave,
I was covered in in and shame,
I heard mercy call my name,
He rolled the stone away!
"Amen! Amen!
I'm alive, I'm alive because He lives!
Amen! Amen!
Let my song join the one that never ends!
"Because He lives,
I can face tomorrow.
Because He lives,
Every fear is gone.
I know He holds my life,
My future in His hands.
"Amen! Amen!
I'm alive, I'm alive because He lives!
Amen! Amen!
Let my song join the one that never ends!
Amen! Amen!
I'm alive, I'm alive because He lives!
Amen! Amen!
Let my song join the one that never ends!
Because He lives!
Because He lives!"
Saturday, March 26, 2016
The Rebel Black Dot Song of Holy Saturday
Matt Maher, "The Waiting" from Saints and Sinners (The Last Angry Man)
Commentary: The truly perfect song for Holy Saturday.
Commentary: The truly perfect song for Holy Saturday.
"The evening tide is falling fast,
My feet are weary, but I'm free at last,
So meet me in the tomb, my Lord,
Come roll away, roll away the stone.
"And this is a mystery,
Death bows to the King of Kings,
He has overcome the grave
For the sinners and the saints."
Friday, March 25, 2016
BLACK MAMBA: Good Friday of the Lord's Passion
'Tis the Friday of the Passion of the Lord (Good Friday): Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
Otherwise, 25 March would be the feast of Saint Ælfwold of Sherborne, Bishop (died 1058): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
Also, normally 25 March marks the feast of the Annunciation of the Lord, but for understandable reasons that observance has been moved to the first available date outside of the Easter Triduum & the overlapping Octave of Easter.
Scripture of Good Friday
Liturgical Readings—Veneration of the Cross
The Book of Isaiah, chapter fifty-two, verse thirteen thru chapter fifty-three, verse twelve;
Psalm Thirty-one, verses two, six, twelve, thirteen, fifteen thru seventeen, & twenty-five;
The Letter to the Hebrews, chapter four, verses fourteen thru sixteen & chapter five, verses seven thru nine;
The Gospel according to John, chapter eighteen, verse one thru chapter nineteen, verse forty-two.
Commentary: Good Friday is the only day of the entire year on which Mass is not celebrated. There are services & observances aplenty, but no Mass.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
Otherwise, 25 March would be the feast of Saint Ælfwold of Sherborne, Bishop (died 1058): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
Also, normally 25 March marks the feast of the Annunciation of the Lord, but for understandable reasons that observance has been moved to the first available date outside of the Easter Triduum & the overlapping Octave of Easter.
Scripture of Good Friday
Liturgical Readings—Veneration of the Cross
The Book of Isaiah, chapter fifty-two, verse thirteen thru chapter fifty-three, verse twelve;
Psalm Thirty-one, verses two, six, twelve, thirteen, fifteen thru seventeen, & twenty-five;
The Letter to the Hebrews, chapter four, verses fourteen thru sixteen & chapter five, verses seven thru nine;
The Gospel according to John, chapter eighteen, verse one thru chapter nineteen, verse forty-two.
Commentary: Good Friday is the only day of the entire year on which Mass is not celebrated. There are services & observances aplenty, but no Mass.
The Rebel Black Dot Song of Good Friday
Joslin Grove Choral Society, "Were You There?" via iTunes (The Last Angry Man)
Commentary: For the purposes of Good Friday, we'll just ignore the last verse about the empty tomb. On Palm Sunday, the Holy Redeemer choir, but only the men, sang an a cappella rendition of "Were You There?" The bass part, which I sing, is weird, as so many bass parts are weird—cursed harmony!—but it works when combined with the totality of the choir, or in this case when paired with the high-flying tenors on the melody. I can listen to "Were You There?" for ours as I contemplate the Passion of the Lord, His salvific suffering & death. I was there when they crucified my Lord, insofar as 'twas my sin that killed Him.
This is also the last music I'll listen to today, except for the Tenebrae service tonight.
Commentary: For the purposes of Good Friday, we'll just ignore the last verse about the empty tomb. On Palm Sunday, the Holy Redeemer choir, but only the men, sang an a cappella rendition of "Were You There?" The bass part, which I sing, is weird, as so many bass parts are weird—cursed harmony!—but it works when combined with the totality of the choir, or in this case when paired with the high-flying tenors on the melody. I can listen to "Were You There?" for ours as I contemplate the Passion of the Lord, His salvific suffering & death. I was there when they crucified my Lord, insofar as 'twas my sin that killed Him.
This is also the last music I'll listen to today, except for the Tenebrae service tonight.
Thursday, March 24, 2016
Project BLACK MAMBA: Lent — Holy Week
'Tis the feast of Blessed Didacus Joseph of Cadiz, Priest, O.F.M. Cap. (1743-1801): Blessed-link ūnus, Blessed-link duo, & Wikipedia-link.
'Tis also the feast of Blessed Óscar Romero, Bishop & Martyr (1917-1980), martyred by parties unknown during the Salvadoran Civil War: Martyr-link & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine. This time last year, Blessed Óscar was the Venerable Óscar. I continue to pray for the day he will be recognized/revealed as Saint Óscar.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings—Chrism Mass
The Book of Isaiah, chapter sixty-one, verses one thru three(a), six(a), & eight(b) thru nine;
Psalm Eighty-nine, verses twenty-one, twenty-two, twenty-five, & twenty-seven;
The Book of Revelation, chapter one, verses five thru eight;
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter four, verses sixteen thru twenty-one.
Mass Readings—Evening Mass of the Lord's Supper
The Book of Exodus, chapter twelve, verses one thru eight & eleven thru fourteen;
Psalm One Hundred Sixteen, verses twelve, thirteen, fifteen thru sixteen(c), seventeen, & eighteen;
The First Letter to the Corinthians, chapter eleven, verses twenty-three thru twenty-six;
The Gospel according to John, chapter thirteen, verses one thru fifteen.
Personal Reading
The Book of Exodus, chapter nineteen (verses one thru twenty-five);
The Book of Exodus, chapter twenty (verses one thru twenty-six);
The Book of Genesis, chapter one, verse one thru chapter two, verse two.
Commentary: Arrival at Sinai (19:1-15), the Great Theophany (19:16-25), the Ten Commandments (20:1-17), & the Fear of God (20:18-26). The creation account from Genesis is the first reading at the marathon Easter Vigil, probably the most beautiful liturgy of the whole year. It is my honor this year to have been asked to read the first reading at the Vigil; today, I started practicing.
'Tis also the feast of Blessed Óscar Romero, Bishop & Martyr (1917-1980), martyred by parties unknown during the Salvadoran Civil War: Martyr-link & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine. This time last year, Blessed Óscar was the Venerable Óscar. I continue to pray for the day he will be recognized/revealed as Saint Óscar.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings—Chrism Mass
The Book of Isaiah, chapter sixty-one, verses one thru three(a), six(a), & eight(b) thru nine;
Psalm Eighty-nine, verses twenty-one, twenty-two, twenty-five, & twenty-seven;
The Book of Revelation, chapter one, verses five thru eight;
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter four, verses sixteen thru twenty-one.
Mass Readings—Evening Mass of the Lord's Supper
The Book of Exodus, chapter twelve, verses one thru eight & eleven thru fourteen;
Psalm One Hundred Sixteen, verses twelve, thirteen, fifteen thru sixteen(c), seventeen, & eighteen;
The First Letter to the Corinthians, chapter eleven, verses twenty-three thru twenty-six;
The Gospel according to John, chapter thirteen, verses one thru fifteen.
Personal Reading
The Book of Exodus, chapter nineteen (verses one thru twenty-five);
The Book of Exodus, chapter twenty (verses one thru twenty-six);
The Book of Genesis, chapter one, verse one thru chapter two, verse two.
Commentary: Arrival at Sinai (19:1-15), the Great Theophany (19:16-25), the Ten Commandments (20:1-17), & the Fear of God (20:18-26). The creation account from Genesis is the first reading at the marathon Easter Vigil, probably the most beautiful liturgy of the whole year. It is my honor this year to have been asked to read the first reading at the Vigil; today, I started practicing.
The Rebel Black Dot Song of Holy Thursday
Jim Cowans & Tony Melendez, "This Is Jesus" via iTunes (The Last Angry Man)
Commentary: Tonight, Lent ends & the Easter Triduum begins with the Mass of the Lord's Supper. Given that this marks the institution of the Eucharist, I thought a Eucharistic song apropos.
Commentary: Tonight, Lent ends & the Easter Triduum begins with the Mass of the Lord's Supper. Given that this marks the institution of the Eucharist, I thought a Eucharistic song apropos.
Wednesday, March 23, 2016
The Rebel Black Dot Songs of Holy Week
Matt Maher, "Lord, I Need You" via iTunes (The Last Angry Man)
Commentary: Purchase your tickets to experience Faith Fest 2016, to see Matt Maher & other contemporary Christian "artists," today! Faith Fest! I'll see you there!
Commentary: Purchase your tickets to experience Faith Fest 2016, to see Matt Maher & other contemporary Christian "artists," today! Faith Fest! I'll see you there!
"Lord, I come, I confess
That in You I find my rest,
Without You I fall apart,
You're the One that guides my heart.
"Lord, I need You!
Oh, I need You.
Every hour I need You.
My one defense
My righteousness,
O God, how I need You!
"Where sin runs deep, Your grace is more…"
Project BLACK MAMBA: Lent — Holy Week
'Tis the feast of Saint Turibius of Mogrovejo, Bishop (1538-1606): Saint-link ūnus, Saint-link duo, & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine. Quoth the Holy Family bulletin:
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Book of Isaiah, chapter fifty, verses four thru nine(a);
Psalm Sixty-nine, verses eight thru ten, twenty-one, twenty-two, thirty-one, thirty-three, & thirty-four;
The Gospel according to Matthew, chapter twenty-six, verses fourteen thru twenty-five.
Personal Reading
The Book of Exodus, chapter seventeen (verses one thru sixteen);
The Book of Exodus, chapter eighteen (verses one thru twenty-seven);
Introduction to the Book of Malachi;
The Book of Malachi, chapter three (verses one thru twenty-four).
Commentary: Water from the rock (17: 1-7), battle with Amalek (17:8-16), meeting with Jethro (18:1-12), & appointment of minor judges (18:13-27). After Mass at St. Matt's downtown, a fellow mentioned to me Malachi, 3:10; not unexpectedly, this lead me to re-read the whole chapter, subtitled in my Bible: The Messenger of the Covenant.
Commentary: Wayback Machine. Quoth the Holy Family bulletin:
Turibius Alfonso in Leon, Spain; studied law at the University of Salamanca; & became a profesor. He was so brilliant that he attracted the attention of King Philip II, who named him chief judge of the court of the Inquisition. When the archbishopric of Lima, Peru, became vacant, Turibius, though a layman, was named to that post. He received all the holy orders & sailed for Peru in 1580. The archdiocese extended from panama to Argentina & the new archbishop worked assiduously for the formation of the clergy & the moral uplifting of the people. The scandals of the time & the resistence of the colonial government & some religious orders made his work much more difficult. He was criticized for being away from Lima for pastoral visitations, & when he tried to correct abuses, he was told that the established customs had the force of law. His response was: "Christ called Himself to truth, not the custom." He died in 1606 whole on a pastoral visit to an Indian village & was canonized in 1726. Pope Benedict XIV compared him to St. Charles Borromeo (4 November) because of his dedication to his flock & his efforts to help them grow in faith & holiness. Four other saints lived in Lima under the jurisdiction of St. Turibius: St. Rose of Lima (23 August), St. Martin de Porres (3 November), St. John Macias (18 September), & St. Francis Solanus (14 July).'Tis also the feast of Saint Joseph Oriol, Priest (1650-1702): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Book of Isaiah, chapter fifty, verses four thru nine(a);
Psalm Sixty-nine, verses eight thru ten, twenty-one, twenty-two, thirty-one, thirty-three, & thirty-four;
The Gospel according to Matthew, chapter twenty-six, verses fourteen thru twenty-five.
Personal Reading
The Book of Exodus, chapter seventeen (verses one thru sixteen);
The Book of Exodus, chapter eighteen (verses one thru twenty-seven);
Introduction to the Book of Malachi;
The Book of Malachi, chapter three (verses one thru twenty-four).
Commentary: Water from the rock (17: 1-7), battle with Amalek (17:8-16), meeting with Jethro (18:1-12), & appointment of minor judges (18:13-27). After Mass at St. Matt's downtown, a fellow mentioned to me Malachi, 3:10; not unexpectedly, this lead me to re-read the whole chapter, subtitled in my Bible: The Messenger of the Covenant.
Tuesday, March 22, 2016
The Explorers' Club, № CDLXXXIX
Operation AXIOM: The World War
11-18 March 1916: The Battles of Latema Nek (11-12 March) & Kahe (18 March)—British & Imperial forces—mainly white South Africans & Rhodesians, black Africans, & Baloch Indians—charged with bayonets fixed to redeem their defeat at Salaita Hill, forcing the Germans to abandon Kilimanjaro & the surrounding vicinities & retreat deeper into German East Africa (Deutsch-Ostafrika).
Lest we forget.
Commentary: The Battle of Salaita Hill, 12 February 1916; see: № CDLXXXIV.
11-18 March 1916: The Battles of Latema Nek (11-12 March) & Kahe (18 March)—British & Imperial forces—mainly white South Africans & Rhodesians, black Africans, & Baloch Indians—charged with bayonets fixed to redeem their defeat at Salaita Hill, forcing the Germans to abandon Kilimanjaro & the surrounding vicinities & retreat deeper into German East Africa (Deutsch-Ostafrika).
Lest we forget.
Commentary: The Battle of Salaita Hill, 12 February 1916; see: № CDLXXXIV.
Project BLACK MAMBA: Lent — Holy Week
'Tis the feast of Saint Avitus of Périgord (sixth century): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Tis also the feast of Saint Nicholas Owen, Martyr, S.J. (circa 1562-1606), martyred under King James VI & I, one of the Forty Martyrs of England & Wales: Martyr-link ūnus, Martyr-link duo, & Wikipedia-link; Wikipedia-link XL.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Book of Isaiah, chapter forty-nine, verses one thru six;
Psalm Seventy-one, verses one thru four(a), five thru six(b), fifteen, & seventeen;
The Gospel according to John, chapter thirteen, verses twenty-one thru thirty-three & thirty-six thru thirty-eight.
Personal Reading
The Book of Exodus, chapter fifteen (verses one thru twenty-seven);
The Book of Exodus, chapter sixteen (verses one thru thirty-six).
Commentary: The first part of chapter fifteen is a song in praise of the Lord after the escape from Egypt & the wiping out of Pharaoh's army, with which I am familiar from its liturgical use (15:1-21); the rest of today's reading: at Marah & Elim (15:22-27), the desert of Sin (16:1-3), the quail & manna (16:4-15), & regulations regarding the manna (16:16-36).
'Tis also the feast of Saint Nicholas Owen, Martyr, S.J. (circa 1562-1606), martyred under King James VI & I, one of the Forty Martyrs of England & Wales: Martyr-link ūnus, Martyr-link duo, & Wikipedia-link; Wikipedia-link XL.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Book of Isaiah, chapter forty-nine, verses one thru six;
Psalm Seventy-one, verses one thru four(a), five thru six(b), fifteen, & seventeen;
The Gospel according to John, chapter thirteen, verses twenty-one thru thirty-three & thirty-six thru thirty-eight.
Personal Reading
The Book of Exodus, chapter fifteen (verses one thru twenty-seven);
The Book of Exodus, chapter sixteen (verses one thru thirty-six).
Commentary: The first part of chapter fifteen is a song in praise of the Lord after the escape from Egypt & the wiping out of Pharaoh's army, with which I am familiar from its liturgical use (15:1-21); the rest of today's reading: at Marah & Elim (15:22-27), the desert of Sin (16:1-3), the quail & manna (16:4-15), & regulations regarding the manna (16:16-36).
The Rebel Black Dot Songs of Holy Week
unknown, "You Are My Inheritance, O Lord (Psalm 16)" courtesy of the Music Man (The Last Angry Man)
Commentary: The Music Man is Holy Redeemer's choir director, music minister, & youth minister, a good chap who is as brilliant at expressing himself through music as he is hapless at expressing himself through oratory. He sent us, the Holy Redeemer choir, this rendition of Psalm Sixteen some time ago as reference for how he wished it sung.
Commentary: The Music Man is Holy Redeemer's choir director, music minister, & youth minister, a good chap who is as brilliant at expressing himself through music as he is hapless at expressing himself through oratory. He sent us, the Holy Redeemer choir, this rendition of Psalm Sixteen some time ago as reference for how he wished it sung.
Monday, March 21, 2016
Project BLACK MAMBA: Lent — Holy Week
Today is the feast of Saint Enda of Aran, Priest & Abbot (circa 450-530): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Tis also the feast of Saint Nicholas of Flüe, Hermit (1417-1487, A.K.A. Brother Klaus): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Book of Isaiah, chapter forty-two, verses one thru seven;
Psalm Twenty-seven, verses one, two, three, thirteen, & fourteen;
The Gospel according to John, chapter twelve, verses one thru eleven.
Personal Reading
The Book of Exodus, chapter thirteen (verses one thru twenty-two);
The Book of Exodus, chapter fourteen (verses one thru thirty-one).
Commentary: Consecration of the first-born (13:1-16), toward the Red Sea (13:17-14:9), crossing the Red Sea (14:10-22), & destruction of the Egyptians (14:23-31).
* * * * *
Friday, 18 March was the Optional Memorial of Saint Cyril of Jerusalem, Bishop & Doctor of the Church (circa 313-386): Saint-link ūnus, Saint-link duo, & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine. Based on my sources, methinks the editor of the Holy Redeemer bulletin has mistakenly included a hagiography of St. Cyril of Alexandria (27 June), also a bishop & Doctor of the Church, instead of today's St. Cyril of Jerusalem. Their lives overlapped slightly, St. Cyril of Alexandria being born about a decade before St. Cyril of Jerusalem shuffled off this mortal coil.
'Twas also the feast of Saint Salvador of Horta, O.F.M. (1520-1567): Saint-link ūnus, Saint-link duo, & Wikipedia-link.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Book of Jeremiah, chapter twenty, verses ten thru thirteen;
Psalm Eighteen, verses two thru seven;
The Gospel according to John, chapter ten, verses thirty-one thru forty-two.
Personal Reading
The Book of Exodus, chapter twelve, verses twenty-one thru fifty;
The Book of Esther, chapter F (verses one thru ten).
Commentary: Promulgation of the Passover (12:21-28), death of the first-born (12:29-30), permission to depart (12:31-36), departure from Egypt (12:37-42), & Passover regulations (12:43-50).
The chapters of Esther are, in sequence: A, one, two, three, B, three (again), four, C, D, five, six, seven, eight, E, eight (again), nine, ten, & F.
* * * * *
Saturday, 19 March was the Solemnity of Saint Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary (first century B.C.-first century A.D.): Saint-link ūnus, Saint-link duo, & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine. Quoth the Holy Redeemer bulletin:
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Second Book of Samuel, chapter seven, verses four thru five(a), twelve thru fourteen(a), & sixteen;
Psalm Eighty-nine, verses two thru five, twenty-seven, & twenty-nine;
The Letter to the Romans, chapter four, verses thirteen, sixteen thru eighteen, & twenty-two;
The Gospel according to Matthew, chapter one, verses sixteen, eighteen thru twenty-one, & twenty-four(a);
or, the Gospel according to Luke, chapter two, verses forty-one thru fifty-one(a).
'Tis also the feast of Saint Nicholas of Flüe, Hermit (1417-1487, A.K.A. Brother Klaus): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Book of Isaiah, chapter forty-two, verses one thru seven;
Psalm Twenty-seven, verses one, two, three, thirteen, & fourteen;
The Gospel according to John, chapter twelve, verses one thru eleven.
Personal Reading
The Book of Exodus, chapter thirteen (verses one thru twenty-two);
The Book of Exodus, chapter fourteen (verses one thru thirty-one).
Commentary: Consecration of the first-born (13:1-16), toward the Red Sea (13:17-14:9), crossing the Red Sea (14:10-22), & destruction of the Egyptians (14:23-31).
* * * * *
Friday, 18 March was the Optional Memorial of Saint Cyril of Jerusalem, Bishop & Doctor of the Church (circa 313-386): Saint-link ūnus, Saint-link duo, & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine. Based on my sources, methinks the editor of the Holy Redeemer bulletin has mistakenly included a hagiography of St. Cyril of Alexandria (27 June), also a bishop & Doctor of the Church, instead of today's St. Cyril of Jerusalem. Their lives overlapped slightly, St. Cyril of Alexandria being born about a decade before St. Cyril of Jerusalem shuffled off this mortal coil.
'Twas also the feast of Saint Salvador of Horta, O.F.M. (1520-1567): Saint-link ūnus, Saint-link duo, & Wikipedia-link.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Book of Jeremiah, chapter twenty, verses ten thru thirteen;
Psalm Eighteen, verses two thru seven;
The Gospel according to John, chapter ten, verses thirty-one thru forty-two.
Personal Reading
The Book of Exodus, chapter twelve, verses twenty-one thru fifty;
The Book of Esther, chapter F (verses one thru ten).
Commentary: Promulgation of the Passover (12:21-28), death of the first-born (12:29-30), permission to depart (12:31-36), departure from Egypt (12:37-42), & Passover regulations (12:43-50).
The chapters of Esther are, in sequence: A, one, two, three, B, three (again), four, C, D, five, six, seven, eight, E, eight (again), nine, ten, & F.
* * * * *
Saturday, 19 March was the Solemnity of Saint Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary (first century B.C.-first century A.D.): Saint-link ūnus, Saint-link duo, & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine. Quoth the Holy Redeemer bulletin:
Joseph was "a just man." This praise bestowed by the Holy Ghost, & the privilege of having been chosen by God to the the foster-father of Jesus & the spouse of the Virgin Mother, are the foundations of the honor paid to St. Joseph by the Church.'Twas also the feast of Blessed Clement of Dunblane, Bishop, O.P. (died 1258): Blessed-link & Wikipedia-link.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Second Book of Samuel, chapter seven, verses four thru five(a), twelve thru fourteen(a), & sixteen;
Psalm Eighty-nine, verses two thru five, twenty-seven, & twenty-nine;
The Letter to the Romans, chapter four, verses thirteen, sixteen thru eighteen, & twenty-two;
The Gospel according to Matthew, chapter one, verses sixteen, eighteen thru twenty-one, & twenty-four(a);
or, the Gospel according to Luke, chapter two, verses forty-one thru fifty-one(a).
The Rebel Black Dot Songs of Holy Week
Matt Maher, "The Field of Stars" from Saints and Sinners (The Last Angry Man)
Sunday, March 20, 2016
Project BLACK MAMBA: Lent — Palm Sunday
'Tis Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord, the Sixth Sunday of Lent (not, as it was inaccurately & infuriatingly labelled in on the cover of the bulletin & on the screens at Mass today, "Passion Sunday"*): Palm-link & Wikipedia-link Palm Sunday.
Commentary: Wayback Machine. In the Catholic Church, Palm Sunday has never been officially titled "Passion Sunday:" Wikipedia-link Passion Sunday. A certain percentage of Holy Redeemer parishioners have always been suspect of our pastor, whispering darkly that though he's an adult convert—& having been a Protestant minister, his ordination as a priest had to be personally approved by Pope St. John Paul II—he is really still a Protestant at heart. This is vicious hogwash, of course, but days like today don't make refuting that nonsense any easier.
Otherwise, 20 March would be the feast of Saint Cuthbert of Lindisfarne, Bishop, O.S.B. (circa 634-687): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
'Twould also be the feast of Blessed John of Parma, Priest, O.F.M. (1209-1289): Blessed-link ūnus, Blessed-link duo, & Wikipedia-link.
Scripture of Holy Week
Mass Readings
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter nineteen, verses twenty-eight thru forty-two;
The Book of Isaiah, chapter fifty, verses four thru seven;
Psalm Twenty-two, verses eight, nine, seventeen thru twenty, twenty-three, & twenty-four;
The Letter to the Philippians, chapter two, verses six thru eleven;
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter twenty-two, verse fourteen thru chapter twenty-three, verse fifty-six;
(or, the Gospel according to Luke, chapter twenty-three, verses one thru forty-nine).
Commentary: Wayback Machine. In the Catholic Church, Palm Sunday has never been officially titled "Passion Sunday:" Wikipedia-link Passion Sunday. A certain percentage of Holy Redeemer parishioners have always been suspect of our pastor, whispering darkly that though he's an adult convert—& having been a Protestant minister, his ordination as a priest had to be personally approved by Pope St. John Paul II—he is really still a Protestant at heart. This is vicious hogwash, of course, but days like today don't make refuting that nonsense any easier.
Otherwise, 20 March would be the feast of Saint Cuthbert of Lindisfarne, Bishop, O.S.B. (circa 634-687): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
'Twould also be the feast of Blessed John of Parma, Priest, O.F.M. (1209-1289): Blessed-link ūnus, Blessed-link duo, & Wikipedia-link.
Scripture of Holy Week
Mass Readings
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter nineteen, verses twenty-eight thru forty-two;
The Book of Isaiah, chapter fifty, verses four thru seven;
Psalm Twenty-two, verses eight, nine, seventeen thru twenty, twenty-three, & twenty-four;
The Letter to the Philippians, chapter two, verses six thru eleven;
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter twenty-two, verse fourteen thru chapter twenty-three, verse fifty-six;
(or, the Gospel according to Luke, chapter twenty-three, verses one thru forty-nine).
The Rebel Black Dot Song of the Lord's Day
Alan Powell, "End of the Matter" from The Song Album: Music from the Motion Picture (The Last Angry Man)
Commentary: The Song is a motion picture based on the Biblical tales of Solomon, King of Israel, son of David, including the Song of Solomon (also known as the Song of Songs), from whence comes the title. Solomon, also known as Jedidiah, is represented by country singer-songwriter Jed King, son of fellow musician David King. It is an affecting if not terribly innovative meditation on the corrupting influence of fame, money, & sex. "End of the Matter" is Jed's song after he has repented of his wandering & dissipation & returned to his wife, Rose (Naamah), & son, Ray (Rehoboam). Jed is constructing a chapel he has long promised to build for Rose, paralleling Solomon's construction of his fabulous Temple.
Commentary: The Song is a motion picture based on the Biblical tales of Solomon, King of Israel, son of David, including the Song of Solomon (also known as the Song of Songs), from whence comes the title. Solomon, also known as Jedidiah, is represented by country singer-songwriter Jed King, son of fellow musician David King. It is an affecting if not terribly innovative meditation on the corrupting influence of fame, money, & sex. "End of the Matter" is Jed's song after he has repented of his wandering & dissipation & returned to his wife, Rose (Naamah), & son, Ray (Rehoboam). Jed is constructing a chapel he has long promised to build for Rose, paralleling Solomon's construction of his fabulous Temple.
"Now here is the end of the matter,
Why you should live a good life:
He's done in the shadow of the darkness,
He's gonna bring to the light.
So cherish the gifts of your Maker,
Delight in the wife of your youth,
Remember God's your Creator,
Whose help leads to the truth,
Whose help leads to the truth.
"So here is the end of the matter,
Why you're searching for the truth, my friend:
He carved His mark in our hearts.
We're never gonna comprehend,
Just how He cause the beginning,
How He's gonna bring it all to an end.
The only hope that we have
Is the Only Son that He did send,
Is the Only Son that He did send.
"So at the end of the heart of the matter:
His will be done, not mine.
He breaks the seal, fulfills the sign,
Makes everything so beautiful,
It's all gonna be so beautiful,
In His time."
Thursday, March 17, 2016
The Explorers' Club, № CDLXXXVIII
Operation AXIOM: The World War—The Endless Battles of the Isonzo, Part III
9-15 March 1916: The Fifth Battle of the Isonzo—The Italians attacked again, having regrouped & reorganized their forces over the winter; the offensive was initiated at the desperate insistence of the French, designed more to draw Central Powers forces away from the Eastern Front & the "world blood pump" at Verdun than directly to achieve Italy's war aims.
Lest we forget.
9-15 March 1916: The Fifth Battle of the Isonzo—The Italians attacked again, having regrouped & reorganized their forces over the winter; the offensive was initiated at the desperate insistence of the French, designed more to draw Central Powers forces away from the Eastern Front & the "world blood pump" at Verdun than directly to achieve Italy's war aims.
Lest we forget.
Project BLACK MAMBA: Lent
'Tis the Optional Memorial of Saint Patrick, Bishop (fifth century): Saint-link ūnus, Saint-link duo, & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine. Quoth the Holy Redeemer bulletin:
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Book of Genesis, chapter seventeen, verses three thru nine;
Psalm One Hundred Five, verses four thru nine;
The Gospel according to John, chapter eight, verses fifty-one thru fifty-nine;
or, for the Memorial,
The First Letter of Peter, chapter four, verses seven(b) thru eleven;
Psalm Ninety-six, verse three;
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter five, verses one thru eleven.
Personal Reading
The Book of Exodus, chapter eleven (verses one thru ten);
The Book of Exodus, chapter twelve, verses one thru twenty.
Commentary: Tenth Plague: the Death of the First-born (11:1-10) & the Passover ritual prescribed (12:1-20).
Bonus! Songs of St. Patrick's Day
Great Big Sea, "The Night Pat Murphy Died" from Play (The Last Angry Man)
Commentary:
Commentary: Wayback Machine. Quoth the Holy Redeemer bulletin:
He was a fifth-century Romano-British… missionary & bishop in Ireland. Known as the "Apostle of Ireland," he is the primary patron saint of Ireland, along with Saints Brigit (1 February) & Columba (9 June).'Tis also the feast of Blessed Conrad of Bavaria, Religious, O.Cist. (circa 1105-1154): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Book of Genesis, chapter seventeen, verses three thru nine;
Psalm One Hundred Five, verses four thru nine;
The Gospel according to John, chapter eight, verses fifty-one thru fifty-nine;
or, for the Memorial,
The First Letter of Peter, chapter four, verses seven(b) thru eleven;
Psalm Ninety-six, verse three;
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter five, verses one thru eleven.
Personal Reading
The Book of Exodus, chapter eleven (verses one thru ten);
The Book of Exodus, chapter twelve, verses one thru twenty.
Commentary: Tenth Plague: the Death of the First-born (11:1-10) & the Passover ritual prescribed (12:1-20).
Bonus! Songs of St. Patrick's Day
Great Big Sea, "The Night Pat Murphy Died" from Play (The Last Angry Man)
Commentary:
"That's how they showed their respect for Paddy Murphy,
That's how they showed our honor and our pride,
They said it was a sin, a shame, and they winked at one another,
And every drink in the place was full the night Pat Murphy died…"
The Rebel Black Dot Songs of History Quiz Night
Project MERCATOR: Misty Beavers Dynasty—The History of History Quiz Night '16, in Song
Billy Joel, "We Didn't Start the Fire" via iTunes (The Last Angry Man)
Commentary: What can get lost in the contentiousness of History Quiz Night, what the haters seem to have forgotten but what we Misty Beavers embrace with our characteristic enthusiasm (which is itself, apparently, an irritant to the haters), is that knowing stuff is fun. Pub quiz is fun, trivia is fun, because learning is fun & being able to recall what you're learned is fun. History Quiz Night is meant to be fun!
I turned ten the year "We Didn't Start the Fire" was released. The song was part of Joel's reaction to turning forty. He was born in 1949; I was born in 1979. I was fascinated by the song from the first time I heard it, loving the historical references, most of which meant nothing to me. But I probably understood more of it than most other ten-year-old kids. I am often asked (I truly, I do not write this to boast) how I know so much. I like learning. I like knowing things. I have a head full of trivia, especially history trivia, because that's what my mind retains—not mathematical formulae but names, dates, & places. This yen didn't start with "We Didn't Start the Fire," but the song was a source of inspiration.
We Misty Beavers follow the rules of History Quiz Night, always. In 2016, our team was shorn of all hangers-on, even though an infinite number of such are explicitly permitted by the rules of the quiz. We had five Misty Beavers—Red Patton, the Blonde Bombshell, Super Mario, the Cardigan, & your humble narrator, the maximum number of teammates permitted—three answer sheets, three answer tickets (both sets of three issued by the organizers), & no access to our smartphones &/or the interwebs during the competition rounds of the quiz. We compete on a level playing field, we just happen to possess a superior ability to identify more of the references in "We Didn't Start the Fire" (the song's Wikipedia page is chockablock with information about the events referenced: hyperlink).
Confident, maybe even cocky, but also ready to compete, not just presume victory, we Misty Beavers began our quest for a third consecutive crown—beyond redemption, beyond repetition, a dynasty.
Billy Joel, "We Didn't Start the Fire" via iTunes (The Last Angry Man)
Commentary: What can get lost in the contentiousness of History Quiz Night, what the haters seem to have forgotten but what we Misty Beavers embrace with our characteristic enthusiasm (which is itself, apparently, an irritant to the haters), is that knowing stuff is fun. Pub quiz is fun, trivia is fun, because learning is fun & being able to recall what you're learned is fun. History Quiz Night is meant to be fun!
I turned ten the year "We Didn't Start the Fire" was released. The song was part of Joel's reaction to turning forty. He was born in 1949; I was born in 1979. I was fascinated by the song from the first time I heard it, loving the historical references, most of which meant nothing to me. But I probably understood more of it than most other ten-year-old kids. I am often asked (I truly, I do not write this to boast) how I know so much. I like learning. I like knowing things. I have a head full of trivia, especially history trivia, because that's what my mind retains—not mathematical formulae but names, dates, & places. This yen didn't start with "We Didn't Start the Fire," but the song was a source of inspiration.
We Misty Beavers follow the rules of History Quiz Night, always. In 2016, our team was shorn of all hangers-on, even though an infinite number of such are explicitly permitted by the rules of the quiz. We had five Misty Beavers—Red Patton, the Blonde Bombshell, Super Mario, the Cardigan, & your humble narrator, the maximum number of teammates permitted—three answer sheets, three answer tickets (both sets of three issued by the organizers), & no access to our smartphones &/or the interwebs during the competition rounds of the quiz. We compete on a level playing field, we just happen to possess a superior ability to identify more of the references in "We Didn't Start the Fire" (the song's Wikipedia page is chockablock with information about the events referenced: hyperlink).
Confident, maybe even cocky, but also ready to compete, not just presume victory, we Misty Beavers began our quest for a third consecutive crown—beyond redemption, beyond repetition, a dynasty.
Wednesday, March 16, 2016
Operation AXIOM | The Stars My Destination
Ninety years ago to the day, 16 March 1926, the first flight of a liquid-propellant rocket occurred in Auburn, Massachusetts. The rocket, Nell, flew for only two & a half seconds, but Robert Goddard's achievement proved the concept & demonstrated the potential of liquid rockets, which within less than fifty years would propel the astronauts who orbited, explored, & returned safely from the Moon. The first liquid-propellant rocket was launched, 16 March 1926, ninety years ago today.
Project BLACK MAMBA: Lent—Long Road Back, Part IV
Today is the feast of Blesseds John Amias & Robert Dalby, Priests & Martyrs (died 1589), martyred under Queen Elizabeth I: Martyr-link Juliett Alpha & Wikipedia-link Juliett Alpha, Martyr-link Romeo Delta & Wikipedia-link Romeo Delta.
'Tis also the feast of Saint Jean de Brébeuf, Priest & Martyr, S.J. (1593-1649), martyred by the Iroquis: Martyr-link & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Book of Daniel, chapter three, verses fourteen thru twenty, ninety-one, ninety-two, & ninety-five;
The Book of Daniel, chapter three, verses fifty-two thru fifty-six;
The Gospel according to John, chapter eight, verses thirty-one thru forty-two.
* * * * *
Saturday, 5 March was the feast of Saint Lucius I, Pope (circa 200-254): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Twas also the feast of Saint John Joseph of the Cross, Priest, O.F.M. (1654-1739): Saint-link ūnus, Saint-link duo, & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Book of Hosea, chapter six, verses one thru six;
Psalm Fifty-one, verses three, four, eighteen thru twenty-one(b);
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter eighteen, verses nine thru fourteen.
Personal Reading
The Book of Exodus, chapter nine, verses one thru twelve.
Commentary: Fifth Plague: the Pestilence (9:1-7) & Sixth Plague: the Boils (9:8-13).
'Tis also the feast of Saint Jean de Brébeuf, Priest & Martyr, S.J. (1593-1649), martyred by the Iroquis: Martyr-link & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Book of Daniel, chapter three, verses fourteen thru twenty, ninety-one, ninety-two, & ninety-five;
The Book of Daniel, chapter three, verses fifty-two thru fifty-six;
The Gospel according to John, chapter eight, verses thirty-one thru forty-two.
* * * * *
Saturday, 5 March was the feast of Saint Lucius I, Pope (circa 200-254): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Twas also the feast of Saint John Joseph of the Cross, Priest, O.F.M. (1654-1739): Saint-link ūnus, Saint-link duo, & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Book of Hosea, chapter six, verses one thru six;
Psalm Fifty-one, verses three, four, eighteen thru twenty-one(b);
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter eighteen, verses nine thru fourteen.
Personal Reading
The Book of Exodus, chapter nine, verses one thru twelve.
Commentary: Fifth Plague: the Pestilence (9:1-7) & Sixth Plague: the Boils (9:8-13).
The Rebel Black Dot Songs of History Quiz Night
Project MERCATOR: Misty Beavers Dynasty—The History of History Quiz Night '16, in Song
Reel Big Fish, "We Hate It When Our Friends Become Successful" from We're Not Happy 'Til You're Not Happy (The Last Angry Man)
Commentary: Last year's repeat victory by the Misty Beavers was marked not only by our utter dominance, attaining the high score in each of the quiz's three rounds, but also by Red Patton's bitterness against the "salty bastards" who resented our success. In 2016, with the red flag of the complimentary event T-shirts waved before the participants like bulls entering the bullring, the bastards were saltier than ever. The negativity was almost palpable. I surveyed the room & spied many familiar faces—erstwhile fellows from the History Club, teammates from my nomad years, my old high school assistant swim coach, a Holy Redeemer parishioner—but precious few friendly faces. A harpy seated two teams down the long table from where my fellow Misty Beavers had encamped, whom I recognized from past H.Q.N.s though I'd never made her acquaintance, fairly seethed with hostility as she gave us the evil eye. Your humble narrator, even naïve, look around in bewilderment. I asked Stan the Man, a Misty Beavers hanger-on from 2015 whom this year had brought his own team, why everyone hated us so much. He replied matter-of-factly that we Misty Beavers are hated because we are like the New York Yankees. Now, to my mind those are fighting words & the rage must have been evident on my face because he quickly continued, explaining that he'd meant that we win a lot & we are thus resented for our winning ways. I heard the ring of truth peal. I surveyed the rogues gallery of false friends around us & saw the hate in their eyes.
I've always enjoyed History Quiz Night, win or lose (though it must be noted that my "worst" personal finish was in 2013, my first year as a Misty Beaver, when we finished in a tie for third, one point behind the tie for first; aside from that, my teams have always won or finished second). I, all of us, clap for everyone. Yes, we want to win, but always in a spirit of sportsmanship that makes competition worthwhile, not just a self-defeated scramble for fleeting glory. Somewhere along the line—without my even noticing (though here it must also be noted that I am rather oblivious to the emotions & feelings of those around me), but probably after out second consecutive victory—History Quiz Night had become personal. They hated us. They hated us simply because we competed the same as they did, only successfully. They hated us & would not stop hating us unless we laid down in surrender. I took a moment to roll this idea around the old brain pan, then shrugged my mental shoulders. Well, O.K., that's an easy choice. They hated us. So be it. Bring on the quiz.
Today's R.B.D.S.O.T.D. is from the perspective of the salty bastards. The Reel big Fish are themselves quite salty bastards. "We Hate It When Our Friends Become Successful" is about No Doubt & other bands to come out of the Southern California music scene at the same time as R.B.F., but achieved greater fame & fortune. It is also sadly applicable to our erstwhile friends on other, lesser History Quiz Night teams.
Reel Big Fish, "We Hate It When Our Friends Become Successful" from We're Not Happy 'Til You're Not Happy (The Last Angry Man)
Commentary: Last year's repeat victory by the Misty Beavers was marked not only by our utter dominance, attaining the high score in each of the quiz's three rounds, but also by Red Patton's bitterness against the "salty bastards" who resented our success. In 2016, with the red flag of the complimentary event T-shirts waved before the participants like bulls entering the bullring, the bastards were saltier than ever. The negativity was almost palpable. I surveyed the room & spied many familiar faces—erstwhile fellows from the History Club, teammates from my nomad years, my old high school assistant swim coach, a Holy Redeemer parishioner—but precious few friendly faces. A harpy seated two teams down the long table from where my fellow Misty Beavers had encamped, whom I recognized from past H.Q.N.s though I'd never made her acquaintance, fairly seethed with hostility as she gave us the evil eye. Your humble narrator, even naïve, look around in bewilderment. I asked Stan the Man, a Misty Beavers hanger-on from 2015 whom this year had brought his own team, why everyone hated us so much. He replied matter-of-factly that we Misty Beavers are hated because we are like the New York Yankees. Now, to my mind those are fighting words & the rage must have been evident on my face because he quickly continued, explaining that he'd meant that we win a lot & we are thus resented for our winning ways. I heard the ring of truth peal. I surveyed the rogues gallery of false friends around us & saw the hate in their eyes.
I've always enjoyed History Quiz Night, win or lose (though it must be noted that my "worst" personal finish was in 2013, my first year as a Misty Beaver, when we finished in a tie for third, one point behind the tie for first; aside from that, my teams have always won or finished second). I, all of us, clap for everyone. Yes, we want to win, but always in a spirit of sportsmanship that makes competition worthwhile, not just a self-defeated scramble for fleeting glory. Somewhere along the line—without my even noticing (though here it must also be noted that I am rather oblivious to the emotions & feelings of those around me), but probably after out second consecutive victory—History Quiz Night had become personal. They hated us. They hated us simply because we competed the same as they did, only successfully. They hated us & would not stop hating us unless we laid down in surrender. I took a moment to roll this idea around the old brain pan, then shrugged my mental shoulders. Well, O.K., that's an easy choice. They hated us. So be it. Bring on the quiz.
Today's R.B.D.S.O.T.D. is from the perspective of the salty bastards. The Reel big Fish are themselves quite salty bastards. "We Hate It When Our Friends Become Successful" is about No Doubt & other bands to come out of the Southern California music scene at the same time as R.B.F., but achieved greater fame & fortune. It is also sadly applicable to our erstwhile friends on other, lesser History Quiz Night teams.
"We hate it when our friends become successful,
We hate it when our friends become successful…
"We can destroy them!
You bet your life we will destroy them
And if we can hurt them, well, we may as well…
"You see, it should have been me!
It should have been me!
Everybody knows, everybody said so…"
Tuesday, March 15, 2016
The Rebel Black Dot Songs of History Quiz Night
Project MERCATOR: Misty Beavers Dynasty—The History of History Quiz Night '16, in Song
Pete Yorn, "Red Right Hand" (from Hellboy) via iTunes (The Last Angry Man)
Commentary: I arrived at History Quiz Night virtually in the nick of time, having come directly from the Holy Redeemer Knights of Columbus Lenten Friday fish fry. I entered the familiar surroundings of the Firkin & Fox, made my way up the stairs to the second-floor dining hall, & signed from my complimentary participant's swag bag. I love swag!
Per my usual custom I was wearing last year's History Quiz Night T-shirt; over this I donned the new year's event T-shirt. I was shocked by the color: red. Blood red. Past History Quiz Night T-shirts came in an assortment of colors, including gray, brown, & myriad shades of blue. Now, red. Red. Blood, sacrifice, aggression, frenzy. The red mist, which descends to blind a competitor to everything but the need–not desire, need—to win. In this same familiar space; out of the same cheery, maize, plastic sack—emblazoned "M Flint Department of History"—that held the customary swag of a small bag of candy & a pen, a luggage tag, a cup, & a stress ball—all History Dept. branded—came this blazing red provocation. Quite literally, we were all seeing red.
Was this an omen? Or was this a self-fulfilling prophecy? I yet had no idea what lay ahead, no foreknowledge of the path we would walk in our bid to claim a third consecutive History Quiz Night championship, our bid for dynasty. Red. Our destiny, our dynasty would be written in red.
Pete Yorn, "Red Right Hand" (from Hellboy) via iTunes (The Last Angry Man)
Commentary: I arrived at History Quiz Night virtually in the nick of time, having come directly from the Holy Redeemer Knights of Columbus Lenten Friday fish fry. I entered the familiar surroundings of the Firkin & Fox, made my way up the stairs to the second-floor dining hall, & signed from my complimentary participant's swag bag. I love swag!
Per my usual custom I was wearing last year's History Quiz Night T-shirt; over this I donned the new year's event T-shirt. I was shocked by the color: red. Blood red. Past History Quiz Night T-shirts came in an assortment of colors, including gray, brown, & myriad shades of blue. Now, red. Red. Blood, sacrifice, aggression, frenzy. The red mist, which descends to blind a competitor to everything but the need–not desire, need—to win. In this same familiar space; out of the same cheery, maize, plastic sack—emblazoned "M Flint Department of History"—that held the customary swag of a small bag of candy & a pen, a luggage tag, a cup, & a stress ball—all History Dept. branded—came this blazing red provocation. Quite literally, we were all seeing red.
Was this an omen? Or was this a self-fulfilling prophecy? I yet had no idea what lay ahead, no foreknowledge of the path we would walk in our bid to claim a third consecutive History Quiz Night championship, our bid for dynasty. Red. Our destiny, our dynasty would be written in red.
Project BLACK MAMBA: Lent—Long Road Back, Part III
Today is the feast of Saint Zachary, Pope (679-752): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Tis also the feast of Saint Louise de Marillac, D.C. (1591-1660), co-foundress of the Daughters of Charity, formally the Company of the Daughters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul: Saint-link ūna, Saint-link duae, & Wikipedia-link; Wikipedia-link D.C..
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
'Tis also the feast of Saint Clement Mary Hofbauer, Priest,C.Ss.R. (1751-1820): Saint-link ūnus, Saint-link duo, & Wikipedia-link.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Book of Numbers, chapter twenty-one, verses four thru nine;
Psalm One Hundred Two, verses two, three, & sixteen thru twenty-one;
The Gospel according to John, chapter eight, verses twenty-one thru thirty.
* * * * *
Thursday, 3 March, was the Optional Memorial of Saint Katharine Drexel, Virgin, S.B.S. (1858-1955), foundress of the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament: Saint-link ūna, Saint-link duae, & Wikipedia-link; Wikipedia-link S.B.S.
Commentary: Wayback Machine. Quoth the Holy Redeemer bulletin:
'Twas also the feast of Blessed Innocent of Berzo, Priest, O.F.M. Cap. (1844-1890): Blessed-link ūnus, Blessed-link duo, & Wikipedia-link.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Book of Jeremiah, chapter seven, verses twenty-three thru twenty-eight;
Psalm Ninety-five, verses one, two, & six thru nine;
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter eleven, verses fourteen thru twenty-three.
Personal Reading
The Book of Exodus, chapter five (verses one thru twenty-three);
The Book of Exodus, chapter six (verses one thru thirty);
The Book of Exodus, chapter seven, verses one thru thirteen.
Commentary: Pharaoh's obduracy (5:1-13), complaint of the foremen (5:14-21), renewal of God's promise (5:22-6:13), genealogy of Moses & Aaron (6:14-27), Moses & Aaron before Pharaoh (6:28-7:7), & the staff turned into a snake (7:8-13).
* * * * *
Friday, 4 March was the Optional Memorial of Saint Casimir (1458-1484): Saint-link ūnus, Saint-link duo, & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine. Quoth the Holy Redeemer bulletin:
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Book of Hosea, chapter fourteen, verses two thru ten;
Psalm Eighty-one, verses six(c) thru eleven(b), fourteen, & seventeen;
The Gospel according to Mark, chapter twelve, verses twenty-eight thru thirty-four.
Personal Reading
The Book of Exodus, chapter seven, verses fourteen thru twenty-nine;
The Book of Exodus, chapter eight (verses one thru twenty-eight).
Commentary: First Plague: Water Turned into Blood (7:14-24), Second Plague: the Frogs (7:25-8:11), Third Plague: the Gnats (8:12-15), & Fourth Plague: the Flies (8:16-28). The third plague is the first time the "magicians" of Pharaoh's court not fake/replicate a plague through their "magic arts," confessing, "'This is the finger of God.'"
'Tis also the feast of Saint Louise de Marillac, D.C. (1591-1660), co-foundress of the Daughters of Charity, formally the Company of the Daughters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul: Saint-link ūna, Saint-link duae, & Wikipedia-link; Wikipedia-link D.C..
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
'Tis also the feast of Saint Clement Mary Hofbauer, Priest,C.Ss.R. (1751-1820): Saint-link ūnus, Saint-link duo, & Wikipedia-link.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Book of Numbers, chapter twenty-one, verses four thru nine;
Psalm One Hundred Two, verses two, three, & sixteen thru twenty-one;
The Gospel according to John, chapter eight, verses twenty-one thru thirty.
* * * * *
Thursday, 3 March, was the Optional Memorial of Saint Katharine Drexel, Virgin, S.B.S. (1858-1955), foundress of the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament: Saint-link ūna, Saint-link duae, & Wikipedia-link; Wikipedia-link S.B.S.
Commentary: Wayback Machine. Quoth the Holy Redeemer bulletin:
She was an American heiress, philanphropist, religious sister, educator, & foundress… She is the only canonized saint to have been born a United States citizen.I confess that in my own head I am prone to confuse St. Katharine Drexel with St. Elizabeth Ann Seton (1774-1821; 4 January: Wayback Machine).
'Twas also the feast of Blessed Innocent of Berzo, Priest, O.F.M. Cap. (1844-1890): Blessed-link ūnus, Blessed-link duo, & Wikipedia-link.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Book of Jeremiah, chapter seven, verses twenty-three thru twenty-eight;
Psalm Ninety-five, verses one, two, & six thru nine;
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter eleven, verses fourteen thru twenty-three.
Personal Reading
The Book of Exodus, chapter five (verses one thru twenty-three);
The Book of Exodus, chapter six (verses one thru thirty);
The Book of Exodus, chapter seven, verses one thru thirteen.
Commentary: Pharaoh's obduracy (5:1-13), complaint of the foremen (5:14-21), renewal of God's promise (5:22-6:13), genealogy of Moses & Aaron (6:14-27), Moses & Aaron before Pharaoh (6:28-7:7), & the staff turned into a snake (7:8-13).
* * * * *
Friday, 4 March was the Optional Memorial of Saint Casimir (1458-1484): Saint-link ūnus, Saint-link duo, & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine. Quoth the Holy Redeemer bulletin:
St. Casimir was the son of the kin of Poland & grandson of the emperor of Austria. He used his royal influence for (the) welfare (of the poor & ill) & attended to their needs through personal donations.'Twas also the feast of Saint Felix of Rhuys, Abbot, O.S.B. (died 1038): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Book of Hosea, chapter fourteen, verses two thru ten;
Psalm Eighty-one, verses six(c) thru eleven(b), fourteen, & seventeen;
The Gospel according to Mark, chapter twelve, verses twenty-eight thru thirty-four.
Personal Reading
The Book of Exodus, chapter seven, verses fourteen thru twenty-nine;
The Book of Exodus, chapter eight (verses one thru twenty-eight).
Commentary: First Plague: Water Turned into Blood (7:14-24), Second Plague: the Frogs (7:25-8:11), Third Plague: the Gnats (8:12-15), & Fourth Plague: the Flies (8:16-28). The third plague is the first time the "magicians" of Pharaoh's court not fake/replicate a plague through their "magic arts," confessing, "'This is the finger of God.'"
Monday, March 14, 2016
The Explorers' Club, № CDLXXXVII
Operation AXIOM: The World War—The Battle of Verdun, Part II
21 February-9 April 1916: The German advance bogged down short of its objectives, due to the inability of supporting artillery to keep up with advancing infantry through muddy terrain, leaving the German infantry & communications exposed to French artillery & poison gas bombardment; the fall of the all-but-abandoned Fort Douaumont (25 February) shocked France & galvanized the defense.
Lest we forget.
21 February-9 April 1916: The German advance bogged down short of its objectives, due to the inability of supporting artillery to keep up with advancing infantry through muddy terrain, leaving the German infantry & communications exposed to French artillery & poison gas bombardment; the fall of the all-but-abandoned Fort Douaumont (25 February) shocked France & galvanized the defense.
Lest we forget.
Project BLACK MAMBA: Lent—Long Road Back, Part II
Today is the feast of Saint Lazarus of Milan, Bishop (died 450): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Tis also the feast of Saint Matilda of Ringelheim (circa 895-968): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Book of Daniel, chapter thirteen, verses one thru nine, fifteen thru seventeen, nineteen thru thirty, & thirty-three thru sixty-two;
(or, the Book of Daniel, chapter thirteen, verses forty-one[c] thru sixty-two);
Psalm Twenty-three, verses one thru six;
The Gospel according to John, chapter eight, verses twelve thru twenty.
* * * * *
Tuesday, 1 March, was the feast of Saint Albinus of Angers, Bishop (circa 470-550, A.K.A. Aubin): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Twas also the feast of Saint David of Wales, Bishop (circa 500-589): Saint-link ūnus, Saint-link duo, & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine. St. David is the patron of Wales & the black & yellow Flag of St. David is used as an alternate flag of Wales (flag-link).
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Book of Daniel, chapter three, verses twenty-five & thirty-four thru forty-three;
Psalm Twenty-five, verses four, five(a,b), six, seven(b,c), eight, & nine;
The Gospel according to Matthew, chapter eighteen, verses twenty-one thru thirty-five.
Personal Reading
The Book of Exodus, chapter two, verses twenty-three thru twenty-five;
The Book of Exodus, chapter three (verses one thru twenty-two).
Commentary: The Burning Bush (2:23-3:3) & the Call of Moses (3:4-22).
* * * * *
Wednesday, 2 March, was the feast of Saint Chad of Mercia, Bishop (circa 620-672): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
'Twas also the feast of Blessed Charles the Good, Martyr (circa 1084-1127, A.K.A. Charles I of Flanders), martyred by the price-gouging Erembald family: Martyr-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Twas also the feast of Saint Agnes of Bohemia, Abbess, O.S.C. (circa 1205-1282): Saint-link ūna, Saint-link duae, & Wikipedia-link.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Book of Daniel, chapter four, verses one & five thru nine;
Psalm One Hundred Forty-seven, verses twelve, thirteen, fifteen, sixteen, nineteen, & twenty;
The Gospel according to Matthew, chapter five, verses seventeen thru nineteen.
Personal Reading
The Book of Exodus, chapter four (verses one thru thirty-one).
Commentary: Confirmation of Moses's mission (4:1-9), Aaron's office as assistant (4:10-17), & Moses's return to Egypt (4:18-31).
'Tis also the feast of Saint Matilda of Ringelheim (circa 895-968): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Book of Daniel, chapter thirteen, verses one thru nine, fifteen thru seventeen, nineteen thru thirty, & thirty-three thru sixty-two;
(or, the Book of Daniel, chapter thirteen, verses forty-one[c] thru sixty-two);
Psalm Twenty-three, verses one thru six;
The Gospel according to John, chapter eight, verses twelve thru twenty.
* * * * *
Tuesday, 1 March, was the feast of Saint Albinus of Angers, Bishop (circa 470-550, A.K.A. Aubin): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Twas also the feast of Saint David of Wales, Bishop (circa 500-589): Saint-link ūnus, Saint-link duo, & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine. St. David is the patron of Wales & the black & yellow Flag of St. David is used as an alternate flag of Wales (flag-link).
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Book of Daniel, chapter three, verses twenty-five & thirty-four thru forty-three;
Psalm Twenty-five, verses four, five(a,b), six, seven(b,c), eight, & nine;
The Gospel according to Matthew, chapter eighteen, verses twenty-one thru thirty-five.
Personal Reading
The Book of Exodus, chapter two, verses twenty-three thru twenty-five;
The Book of Exodus, chapter three (verses one thru twenty-two).
Commentary: The Burning Bush (2:23-3:3) & the Call of Moses (3:4-22).
* * * * *
Wednesday, 2 March, was the feast of Saint Chad of Mercia, Bishop (circa 620-672): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
'Twas also the feast of Blessed Charles the Good, Martyr (circa 1084-1127, A.K.A. Charles I of Flanders), martyred by the price-gouging Erembald family: Martyr-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Twas also the feast of Saint Agnes of Bohemia, Abbess, O.S.C. (circa 1205-1282): Saint-link ūna, Saint-link duae, & Wikipedia-link.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Book of Daniel, chapter four, verses one & five thru nine;
Psalm One Hundred Forty-seven, verses twelve, thirteen, fifteen, sixteen, nineteen, & twenty;
The Gospel according to Matthew, chapter five, verses seventeen thru nineteen.
Personal Reading
The Book of Exodus, chapter four (verses one thru thirty-one).
Commentary: Confirmation of Moses's mission (4:1-9), Aaron's office as assistant (4:10-17), & Moses's return to Egypt (4:18-31).
The Rebel Black Dot Songs of History Quiz Night
Project MERCATOR: Misty Beavers Dynasty—The History of History Quiz Night '16, in Song
Thin Lizzy, "The Boys Are Back in Town" via iTunes (The Last Angry Man)
Commentary: I've competed in the University of Michigan—Flint History Department's annual History Quiz Night eight times (History Quiz Night has been held thirteen times total). The first four times, which included two victories & two second places, I was a nomad. My teams were formed ad hoc & usually at the last minute, & despite our success in the event, no one ever seemed to want me back. I found this both puzzling & hurtful, because I strove always to be a friendly bloke as well as a successful competitor, but then group social dynamics have always puzzled me. In those same years, Red Patton, my pal from the History Club, had formed the Misty Beavers with his pals; they competed well, but could never claim the brass ring, in part because my teams always stood in their way. Red Patton & I were fast friends, but he wondered if I would enjoy being on a team as boisterous as the Misty Beavers.
In the four years that I have been one of the Misty Beavers, I've found a home. We win History Quiz Night & we win the fun. We chant loudly, an act of unrestrained joy that has the ancillary benefit of intimidating our opponents. We laugh & we drink beer by the pitcher. We converse our tokens—cards that can be exchanged for answers from the faculty—for the final round, because we take the competition as seriously as we take ourselves lightly. There is a bittersweet joy to History Quiz Night, because we don't see each other as much as we'd like. Red Patton has moved away in search of work & Mrs. Red Patton's continuing research & education in mad science. Fond as I am of Super Mario & the Blonde Bombshell, & they of me, we don't really socialize without Red Patton as the glue to bind us together (though we are devising a means to overcome this obstacle, with a pub quiz in Fenton). It was grand, it was glorious to be together again as a team. (Bo Schembechler: The team. The team. The team..) We couldn't all be there: the Admiral is on active duty, deployed as a sailor in the United States Navy, & the Animal, the Blonde Bombshell's brother & possibly the most charismatic individual I've ever met, was teaching overseas; but Super Mario, a founding member of the Misty Beavers, was back, having missed last year traveling for work. The core trio was in place—Red Patton, the Blonde Bombshell, & your humble narrator—joined by Super Mario & the Blonde Bombsehll's fiancé, the Cardigan.
The Misty Beavers gathered for the 13th Annual History Quiz Night, having won redemption, having repeated as champions, seeking to cement our dynasty.
Thin Lizzy, "The Boys Are Back in Town" via iTunes (The Last Angry Man)
Commentary: I've competed in the University of Michigan—Flint History Department's annual History Quiz Night eight times (History Quiz Night has been held thirteen times total). The first four times, which included two victories & two second places, I was a nomad. My teams were formed ad hoc & usually at the last minute, & despite our success in the event, no one ever seemed to want me back. I found this both puzzling & hurtful, because I strove always to be a friendly bloke as well as a successful competitor, but then group social dynamics have always puzzled me. In those same years, Red Patton, my pal from the History Club, had formed the Misty Beavers with his pals; they competed well, but could never claim the brass ring, in part because my teams always stood in their way. Red Patton & I were fast friends, but he wondered if I would enjoy being on a team as boisterous as the Misty Beavers.
In the four years that I have been one of the Misty Beavers, I've found a home. We win History Quiz Night & we win the fun. We chant loudly, an act of unrestrained joy that has the ancillary benefit of intimidating our opponents. We laugh & we drink beer by the pitcher. We converse our tokens—cards that can be exchanged for answers from the faculty—for the final round, because we take the competition as seriously as we take ourselves lightly. There is a bittersweet joy to History Quiz Night, because we don't see each other as much as we'd like. Red Patton has moved away in search of work & Mrs. Red Patton's continuing research & education in mad science. Fond as I am of Super Mario & the Blonde Bombshell, & they of me, we don't really socialize without Red Patton as the glue to bind us together (though we are devising a means to overcome this obstacle, with a pub quiz in Fenton). It was grand, it was glorious to be together again as a team. (Bo Schembechler: The team. The team. The team..) We couldn't all be there: the Admiral is on active duty, deployed as a sailor in the United States Navy, & the Animal, the Blonde Bombshell's brother & possibly the most charismatic individual I've ever met, was teaching overseas; but Super Mario, a founding member of the Misty Beavers, was back, having missed last year traveling for work. The core trio was in place—Red Patton, the Blonde Bombshell, & your humble narrator—joined by Super Mario & the Blonde Bombsehll's fiancé, the Cardigan.
The Misty Beavers gathered for the 13th Annual History Quiz Night, having won redemption, having repeated as champions, seeking to cement our dynasty.
Sunday, March 13, 2016
Project BLACK MAMBA: Fifth Sunday of Lent
'Tis the Fifth Sunday of Lent: Lent-link & Wikipedia-link.
Otherwise, 13 March would be the feast of Saint Leander of Seville, Bishop (circa 534-600): Saint-link ūnus, Saint-link duo, & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
'Twould also be the feast of Saint Sancha of Portugal, O.Cist. (1180-1229): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
Scripture of the Week
Mass Readings
The Book of Isaiah, chapter forty-three, verses sixteen thru twenty-one;
Psalm One Hundred Twenty-six, verses one thru six;
The Letter to the Philippians, chapter three, verses eight thru fourteen;
The Gospel according to John, chapter eight, verses one thru eleven;
or,
The Book of Ezekiel, chapter thirty-seven, verses twelve thru fourteen;
Psalm One Hundred Thirty, verses one thru eight;
The Letter to the Romans, chapter eight, verses eight thru eleven;
The Gospel according to John, chapter eleven, verses one thru forty-five;
(or, the Gospel according to John, chapter eleven, verses three thru seven, seventeen, twenty thru twenty-seven, & thirty-three(b) thru forty-five).
* * * * *
Saturday, 12 March was the feast of Saint Maximilian of Tébessa, Martyr (274-295), martyred under the emperor Diocletian: Martyr-link ūnus, Martyr-link duo, & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine. The patron saint of conscientious objectors.
'Twas also the feast of Blessed Angela Salawa, O.F.S. (1881-1922): Blessed-link ūna, Blessed-link duae, & Wikipedia-link.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Book of Jeremiah, chapter eleven, verses eighteen thru twenty;
Psalm Seven, verses two, three, nine(b) thru twelve;
The Gospel according to John, chapter seven, verses forty thru fifty-three.
Otherwise, 13 March would be the feast of Saint Leander of Seville, Bishop (circa 534-600): Saint-link ūnus, Saint-link duo, & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
'Twould also be the feast of Saint Sancha of Portugal, O.Cist. (1180-1229): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
Scripture of the Week
Mass Readings
The Book of Isaiah, chapter forty-three, verses sixteen thru twenty-one;
Psalm One Hundred Twenty-six, verses one thru six;
The Letter to the Philippians, chapter three, verses eight thru fourteen;
The Gospel according to John, chapter eight, verses one thru eleven;
or,
The Book of Ezekiel, chapter thirty-seven, verses twelve thru fourteen;
Psalm One Hundred Thirty, verses one thru eight;
The Letter to the Romans, chapter eight, verses eight thru eleven;
The Gospel according to John, chapter eleven, verses one thru forty-five;
(or, the Gospel according to John, chapter eleven, verses three thru seven, seventeen, twenty thru twenty-seven, & thirty-three(b) thru forty-five).
* * * * *
Saturday, 12 March was the feast of Saint Maximilian of Tébessa, Martyr (274-295), martyred under the emperor Diocletian: Martyr-link ūnus, Martyr-link duo, & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine. The patron saint of conscientious objectors.
'Twas also the feast of Blessed Angela Salawa, O.F.S. (1881-1922): Blessed-link ūna, Blessed-link duae, & Wikipedia-link.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Book of Jeremiah, chapter eleven, verses eighteen thru twenty;
Psalm Seven, verses two, three, nine(b) thru twelve;
The Gospel according to John, chapter seven, verses forty thru fifty-three.
The Rebel Black Dot Song of the Lord's Day
The Proclaimers, "Wages of Sin" from Notes & Rhymes (The Last Angry Man)
Commentary: As the priest remarked at yesterday's vigil Mass, "No one is promised tomorrow."
The Proclaimers, "I Know" from Notes & Rhymes (The Last Angry Man)
Commentary:
Commentary: As the priest remarked at yesterday's vigil Mass, "No one is promised tomorrow."
"I've lead an average life,Samstag, 12. März
I've told the truth and I have lied,
But I need a few more years
To help build up the credit side.
"So I hope (Hope, hope, hope and pray),
And I pray (Hope, hope, hope and pray),
That the wages of sin aren't paid today…"
The Proclaimers, "I Know" from Notes & Rhymes (The Last Angry Man)
Commentary:
"You'd lay your life down for this country,
Lay it down for fools like me,
I know, I know, I know you would.
You'd make the ultimate sacrifice,
Lose yourself on the throw of a dice,
I know, I know, I know you would.
"'Cause the line you come from stretches back
In an unbroken chain other countries lack,
Every single corner of the world
Has seen our banners be unfurled,
You've won and lost and battled on
Whether the cause was right or wrong.
God knows what you do to the enemy
'Cause you scare the living hell out of me.
"He'd lay his life down for his country,
He'd like to kill fools like me,
I know, I know, I know he would.
He'd make the ultimate sacrifice,
Blow himself to paradise,
I know, I know, I know he would.
"And the line he comes from stretches back
In an unbroken chain other countries lack,
To the furthered corners of the world
Where they watched out banner be unfurled,
He's won and lost and battled on
Whether his cause was right or wrong.
He's this generation's enemy
And he scares the living hell out of me…
"And the line we come from stretches back
In an unbroken chain no country lacks,
To the darkest corner of a cave
Where there's a weapon make to stave
Or gouge or choke or cut and kill,
In a hundred years we'll be fighting still,
I know, I know, I know we will."
Friday, March 11, 2016
Project BLACK MAMBA: Lent—Hold Fast
'Tis the feast of Saint Benedict Crispus, Bishop (died 732, A.K.A. of Milan): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Tis also the feast of Saint Óengus the Culdee, Bishop (died 824, A.K.A. Aengus, of Tallaght): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Book of Wisdom, chapter two, verses one(a) & twelve thru twenty-two;
Psalm Thirty-four, verses seventeen thru twenty-one & twenty-three;
The Gospel according to John, chapter seven, verses one, two, ten, & twenty-five thru thirty.
'Tis also the feast of Saint Óengus the Culdee, Bishop (died 824, A.K.A. Aengus, of Tallaght): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Book of Wisdom, chapter two, verses one(a) & twelve thru twenty-two;
Psalm Thirty-four, verses seventeen thru twenty-one & twenty-three;
The Gospel according to John, chapter seven, verses one, two, ten, & twenty-five thru thirty.
The Rebel Black Dot Song of the Day
The Proclaimers, "Free Market" from Notes & Rhymes (The Last Angry Man)
Commentary: There are few creatures more onerous than those who are willing to play the game as long as they are winning, but cry foul the moment things stop going their way, even as everyone else continues to play by the same rules they all once endorsed. I remain firmly opposed to the Wall Street bailouts of 2008-2009, to those who favor government to keep its distance as long as they are winning but cry for government to save them as soon as the chickens come home to roost. Have the courage of your convictions or have the honesty to admit that you were wrong & change your position wholesale; ye cannae have it both ways.
Commentary: There are few creatures more onerous than those who are willing to play the game as long as they are winning, but cry foul the moment things stop going their way, even as everyone else continues to play by the same rules they all once endorsed. I remain firmly opposed to the Wall Street bailouts of 2008-2009, to those who favor government to keep its distance as long as they are winning but cry for government to save them as soon as the chickens come home to roost. Have the courage of your convictions or have the honesty to admit that you were wrong & change your position wholesale; ye cannae have it both ways.
"You thought that history was dead.
Well, it just whacked you on the head.
It took your money and your right,
It's coming back to take your pride…"
Thursday, March 10, 2016
Project BLACK MAMBA: Lent—Hold Fast
'Tis the feast of Saint Simplicius, Pope (died 483): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Tis also the feast of Saint John Ogilvie, Priest & Martyr, S.J. (1579-1615), martyred under King James VI & I: Martyr-link ūnus, Martyr-link duo, & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Book of Exodus, chapter thirty-two, verses seven thru fourteen;
Psalm One Hundred Six, verses nineteen thru twenty-three;
The Gospel according to John, chapter five, verses thirty-one thru forty-seven.
'Tis also the feast of Saint John Ogilvie, Priest & Martyr, S.J. (1579-1615), martyred under King James VI & I: Martyr-link ūnus, Martyr-link duo, & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Book of Exodus, chapter thirty-two, verses seven thru fourteen;
Psalm One Hundred Six, verses nineteen thru twenty-three;
The Gospel according to John, chapter five, verses thirty-one thru forty-seven.
The Rebel Black Dot Song of the Day
The Proclaimers, "I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)" from Sunshine on Leith (The Last Angry Man)
Wednesday, March 9, 2016
The Rebel Black Dot Song of the Day
They Might Be Giants, "Music Jail, Pt. 1 & 2" from Glean (The Last Angry Man)
Commentary: There really are two distinct parts to "Music Jail, Pt. 1 & 2."
Commentary: There really are two distinct parts to "Music Jail, Pt. 1 & 2."
"Won't you come with me to music jail?…"
Project BLACK MAMBA: Lent—Long Road Back, Part I
Today is the Optional Memorial of Saint Frances of Rome, Religious, Obl.S.B. (1384-1440), foundress of the Oblates of St. Frances of Rome: Saint-link ūna, Saint-link duae, & Wikipedia-link; also, Wikipedia-link Oblates.
Commentary: Wayback Machine. Quoth the Holy Redeemer bulletin:
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Book of Isaiah, chapter forty-nine, verses eight thru fifteen;
Psalm One Hundred Forty-five, verses eight, nine, thirteen(c) thru fourteen, seventeen, & eighteen;
The Gospel according to John, chapter five, verses seventeen thru thirty.
* * * * *
Tuesday, 8 March was the Optional Memorial of Saint John of God, Religious, O.H. (1495-1550), founder of the Brothers Hospitallers of Saint John of God, formally the Hospitaller Order of the Brothers of St. John of God: Saint-link ūnus, Saint-link duo, & Wikipedia-link; also, Wikipedia-link O.H.
Commentary: Wayback Machine. Quoth the Holy Redeemer bulletin:
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Book of Ezekiel, chapter forty-seven, verses one thru nine & twelve;
Psalm Forty-six, verses two, three, five, six, eight, & nine;
The Gospel according to John, chapter five, verses one thru sixteen.
Personal Reading
The Book of Exodus, chapter ten (verses one thru twenty-nine).
Commentary: Eighth Plague: the Locusts (10:1-20) & Ninth Plague: the Darkness (10:-21-29).
* * * * *
Monday, 7 March was the Optional Memorial of Saints Perpetua & Felicity, Martyrs (died 203), maryred under the emperor Septimius Severus: Martyrs-link, Martyr-link Papa, Martyr-link Foxtrot, & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine. Quoth the Holy Redeemer bulletin:
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Book of Isaiah, chapter sixty-five, verses seventeen thru twenty-one;
Psalm Thirty, verses two, four thru six, eleven thru twelve(a), & thirteen(b);
The Gospel according to John, chapter four, verses forty-three thru fifty-four.
Personal Reading
The Book of Exodus, chapter nine, verses thirteen thru thirty-five.
Commentary: Seventh Plague: the Hail (9:13-35).
Commentary: Wayback Machine. Quoth the Holy Redeemer bulletin:
Frances started a lay order of women attached to the Benedictines called the Oblates of Mary. The women lived in the world but pledged to offer themselves to God & serve the poor. Eventually they bought a house where the widowed members could live in community.'Tis also the feast of Saint Dominic Savio (1842-1857): Saint-link ūnus, Saint-link duo, & Wikipedia-link.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Book of Isaiah, chapter forty-nine, verses eight thru fifteen;
Psalm One Hundred Forty-five, verses eight, nine, thirteen(c) thru fourteen, seventeen, & eighteen;
The Gospel according to John, chapter five, verses seventeen thru thirty.
* * * * *
Tuesday, 8 March was the Optional Memorial of Saint John of God, Religious, O.H. (1495-1550), founder of the Brothers Hospitallers of Saint John of God, formally the Hospitaller Order of the Brothers of St. John of God: Saint-link ūnus, Saint-link duo, & Wikipedia-link; also, Wikipedia-link O.H.
Commentary: Wayback Machine. Quoth the Holy Redeemer bulletin:
John of God is the patron saint of boksellers, printers, heart patients, nurses, the sick, & firefighters, & is considered the founder of the Brothers Hospitallers.'Twas also the feast of Blessed Wincenty Kadłubek, Bishop (1161-1223, A.K.A. Vincent Kadlubo): Blessed-link & Wikipedia-link.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Book of Ezekiel, chapter forty-seven, verses one thru nine & twelve;
Psalm Forty-six, verses two, three, five, six, eight, & nine;
The Gospel according to John, chapter five, verses one thru sixteen.
Personal Reading
The Book of Exodus, chapter ten (verses one thru twenty-nine).
Commentary: Eighth Plague: the Locusts (10:1-20) & Ninth Plague: the Darkness (10:-21-29).
* * * * *
Monday, 7 March was the Optional Memorial of Saints Perpetua & Felicity, Martyrs (died 203), maryred under the emperor Septimius Severus: Martyrs-link, Martyr-link Papa, Martyr-link Foxtrot, & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine. Quoth the Holy Redeemer bulletin:
They are… martyrs of the third century. Vibia Perpetua was a married noblewomen, said to have been twenty-two years-old at the time fo her death, & mother of an infant she was nursing. Felicity, a slave imprisoned with her & pregnant at the time, was martyred with her. They were put to death along with others at Carthage in the Roman province of Africa.'Twas also the feast of Blessed Leonid Feodorov, Exarch & Martyr (1879-1935), martyred under the Chairman & General Secretary Joseph Stalin: Martyr-link & Wikipedia-link.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings
The Book of Isaiah, chapter sixty-five, verses seventeen thru twenty-one;
Psalm Thirty, verses two, four thru six, eleven thru twelve(a), & thirteen(b);
The Gospel according to John, chapter four, verses forty-three thru fifty-four.
Personal Reading
The Book of Exodus, chapter nine, verses thirteen thru thirty-five.
Commentary: Seventh Plague: the Hail (9:13-35).
Tuesday, March 8, 2016
The Explorers' Club, № CDLXXXVI
Operation AXIOM: The World War—The Siege of Kut, Part III
8 March 1916: The Battle of Dujaila—The Anglo-Indian Tigris Corps conducted a perilous night march & achieved total surprise over the German-led Ottoman defenders, but squandered their advantage through stubborn dedication to follow the timetable of the battle plan, regardless of changing conditions on the ground; within besieged Kut, starvation loomed larger with every passing day.
Lest we forget.
8 March 1916: The Battle of Dujaila—The Anglo-Indian Tigris Corps conducted a perilous night march & achieved total surprise over the German-led Ottoman defenders, but squandered their advantage through stubborn dedication to follow the timetable of the battle plan, regardless of changing conditions on the ground; within besieged Kut, starvation loomed larger with every passing day.
Lest we forget.
Bonus! Song of the Day
Barenaked Ladies, "Lovers in a Dangerous Time" from Disc One: All Their Greatest Hits, 1991-2001 (The Last Angry Man)
Commentary:
Commentary:
"One minute you're waiting for the sky to fall,
The next you're dazzled by the beauty of it all…"
The Rebel Black Dot Song of the Day
The Fratellis, "Chelsea Dagger" from Costello Music (The Last Angry Man)
Commentary:
Commentary:
"I said, 'Tell me your name. Is it sweet?'
She said, 'My boy, it's Dagger.'…"
Monday, March 7, 2016
The Rebel Black Dot Song of the Day
Sufjan Stevens, "Casimir Pulaski Day" from Illinois (The Last Angry Man)
Commentary: 'Tis Casimir Pulaski Day in the City of the Big Shoulders. Of course, "Casimir Pulaski Day" isn't really about Casimir Pulaski Day. Life carries on, in it magnificence & its banality, its triumphs & its travesties, it joys & its sorrows, no matter what day it is.
Commentary: 'Tis Casimir Pulaski Day in the City of the Big Shoulders. Of course, "Casimir Pulaski Day" isn't really about Casimir Pulaski Day. Life carries on, in it magnificence & its banality, its triumphs & its travesties, it joys & its sorrows, no matter what day it is.
Sunday, March 6, 2016
The Rebel Black Dot Songs of the Lord's Day
Joey Ramone, "What a Wonderful World" via iTunes (The Last Angry Man)
Samstag, 5. März
The Hippos, "Asleep at the Wheel" from Forget the World (The Last Angry Man)
Skammentary: Sleep has been increasingly optional these last few weekends, a development about which your humble narrator is none too pleased.
Samstag, 5. März
The Hippos, "Asleep at the Wheel" from Forget the World (The Last Angry Man)
Skammentary: Sleep has been increasingly optional these last few weekends, a development about which your humble narrator is none too pleased.
"I've got a lot on my mind,
I've been driving all night,
You can bet I'll be driving
When out comes the light…"
Project BLACK MAMBA: Fourth Sunday of Lent
'Tis Laetare Sunday, the Fourth Sunday of Lent: Lent-link & Wikipedia-link Laetare.
Otherwise, 6 March would be the feast of Saint Cyril of Constantinople, Priest, O.Carm. (circa 1126-1230): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
'Twould also be the feast of Saint Colette, Abbess, P.C.C. (1381-1447, A.K.A of Corbie), foundress of the Colettine Poor Clares: Saint-link & Wikipedia-link; Wikipedia-link P.C.C.
Scripture of the Week
Mass Readings
The Book of Joshua, chapter five, verses nine(a), ten, eleven, & twelve;
Psalm Thirty-four, verses two thru seven;
The Second Letter to the Corinthians, chapter five, verses seventeen thru twenty-one;
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter fifteen, verses one thru three & eleven thru thirty-two;
or,
The First Book of Samuel, chapter sixteen, verses one(b), six, seven, & ten thru thirteen(a);
Psalm Twenty-three, verses one thru six;
The Letter to the Ephesians, chapter five, verse eight thru fourteen;
The Gospel according to John, chapter nine, verses one thru forty-one;
(or, the Gospel according to John, chapter nine, verses one, six thru nine, thirteen thru seventeen, & thirty-four thru thirty-eight).
Otherwise, 6 March would be the feast of Saint Cyril of Constantinople, Priest, O.Carm. (circa 1126-1230): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
'Twould also be the feast of Saint Colette, Abbess, P.C.C. (1381-1447, A.K.A of Corbie), foundress of the Colettine Poor Clares: Saint-link & Wikipedia-link; Wikipedia-link P.C.C.
Scripture of the Week
Mass Readings
The Book of Joshua, chapter five, verses nine(a), ten, eleven, & twelve;
Psalm Thirty-four, verses two thru seven;
The Second Letter to the Corinthians, chapter five, verses seventeen thru twenty-one;
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter fifteen, verses one thru three & eleven thru thirty-two;
or,
The First Book of Samuel, chapter sixteen, verses one(b), six, seven, & ten thru thirteen(a);
Psalm Twenty-three, verses one thru six;
The Letter to the Ephesians, chapter five, verse eight thru fourteen;
The Gospel according to John, chapter nine, verses one thru forty-one;
(or, the Gospel according to John, chapter nine, verses one, six thru nine, thirteen thru seventeen, & thirty-four thru thirty-eight).
Friday, March 4, 2016
The Rebel Black Dot Song of the Day
Lee Dorsey, "Working In a Coalmine" via iTunes (The Last Angry Man)
Commentary: There are few things I love more than songs that pair dark, gloomy lyrics with catchy, upbeat music. This explains my love of ska, especially the Reel Big Fish.
Commentary: There are few things I love more than songs that pair dark, gloomy lyrics with catchy, upbeat music. This explains my love of ska, especially the Reel Big Fish.
"Lord, I'm just so tired,
How long can this go on?…"
Thursday, March 3, 2016
The Rebel Black Dot Song of the Day
John Williams, "Passage through the Planet Core" from Star Wars: Episode I—The Phantom Menace (The Last Angry Man)
Commentary: The peerless Mr. Williams was excluded from the recent "Visions of the Future" fête for two reasons: one, I wanted songs with lyrics that I could quote, 'twas hoped to poignant or poetic effect; & two, to give anyone else even a fighting chance of competing his magnificent music has to be held out of competition—he's just that good. These last two days are not restitution, at least not intentionally, Williams's Star Wars scores just happen to dovetail neatly with the sounds I'm seeking.
Commentary: The peerless Mr. Williams was excluded from the recent "Visions of the Future" fête for two reasons: one, I wanted songs with lyrics that I could quote, 'twas hoped to poignant or poetic effect; & two, to give anyone else even a fighting chance of competing his magnificent music has to be held out of competition—he's just that good. These last two days are not restitution, at least not intentionally, Williams's Star Wars scores just happen to dovetail neatly with the sounds I'm seeking.
Wednesday, March 2, 2016
What's Eating The Last Angry Man?
The snow. The snow really chaps my ass! Make no mistake, I love the snow. I've longed for the snow. What has my knickers in such a twist is the absurd heat waves that keep melting the snow. This is the second week in a row of the following pattern: a huge midweek blizzard strikes, burying sacred Michigan is enough snow to cancel everything (at least my Tuesday night K. of C. meeting & Wednesday night religious ed., activities from which I draw much vim), but by the weekend temperatures have soared into the fifties (50+° F), melting all that lovely snow & leaving the world a drab brown mess. This is irksome because it is the worst of all worlds: the hassle & inconvenience of shoveling snow without any of the aesthetic benefits of gazing upon snow, of enjoying the cold air that accompanies snow. "Always winter but never Christmas," in C. S Lewis's words.
That's what's eating The Last Angry Man.
The Rebel Black Dot Song of the Day
John Williams, "The Battle in the Snow" from Star Wars: Episode V—The Empire Strikes Back (The Last Angry Man)
That's what's eating The Last Angry Man.
The Rebel Black Dot Song of the Day
John Williams, "The Battle in the Snow" from Star Wars: Episode V—The Empire Strikes Back (The Last Angry Man)
Tuesday, March 1, 2016
The R.B.D. Song of the Day | Visions of the Future
They Might Be Giants, "The Ballad of Davy Crockett (In Outer Space)" from Here Comes Science (The Last Angry Spaceman)
Captain's Log:
"Davy, Davy Crockett,The grass is always greener on the other side of the fence, here on Earth, or redder on the other side of the fence as is the proposed case on exoplanet Kepler-186f, because times change—art, manners, & prevailing morals come in & out of fashion; technology & techniques advance—but the essential nature of man remains the same. In the timeless words of Saint Augustine, "our hearts are restless, O Lord, until they rest in you." This restlessness is not to be lamented, it is an integral part of who we are, of how we are meant to experience the exile that is this life. This restlessness drives us to cross oceans & tame continents, to close old frontiers & open new frontiers, to conquer Mount Everest & explore the Challenger Deep, to scan the skies to discover new stars & nebulae & probe the human genome to cure disease & relieve suffering. This restlessness drives us, both individually & collectively. I hope that within my lifetime that restlessness will drive us to land men on Mars, the Red Planet. I hope that no matter how long it takes, decades or centuries, we will dispatch first robotic probes & then manned missions to distant solar systems. The exploration of outer space, like all science, is one indispensable path to discover the splendor of God's Creation. He made us to strive, to venture, & eventually to discover that this insatiable longing to dare, to challenge the unknown will always leave us envious & unsatisfied—convinced that the grass is redder on the other side, that we'll finally be happy & life will finally make sense if only we go one step further—'til we find rest in Him, the very thing for which we'd always been longing. Go boldly, He'll be with us 'til the end of the age.
King of this brand-new place,
Davy, Davy Crockett,
Traveling through outer space…
"Davy, Davy Crockett,
The buckskin astronaut,
Davy, Davy Crockett,
There's more than we were taught…"
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)