The Wayback Machine Tour of "Explorers' Club" Hoaxes
№ XIX: The Great Moon Hoax of 1835
№ CXCVII: The Piltdown Man Hoax (1912-1953)
Sunday, December 31, 2017
The Explorers' Club, № DXCI
The Dreadnought Hoax—In February 1910, led by Horace de Vere Cole & Adrian Stephens, a gang of pranksters (a forerunner of the later Bloomsbury Group), theatrically disguised themselves as "Abyssinian princes" (Ethiopian royalty) & bluffed their way onto the battleship H.M.S. Dreadnought, the Royal Navy's flagship, where they were formally greeted as foreign dignitaries.
The Wayback Machine Tour of "Explorers' Club" Hoaxes
№ XIX: The Great Moon Hoax of 1835
№ CXCVII: The Piltdown Man Hoax (1912-1953)
The Wayback Machine Tour of "Explorers' Club" Hoaxes
№ XIX: The Great Moon Hoax of 1835
№ CXCVII: The Piltdown Man Hoax (1912-1953)
Bonus! Song o' New Year's Eve
Me First and the Gimme Gimmes, "Auld Lang Syne" (live) from Me First and the Gimme Gimmes Ruin Jonny's Bar Mitzvah (The Last Auld Man)
The Victors: Team 138, Games 10, 11, & 12
The Wayback Machine Tour of The Victors: Team 138, Games 1-9
Game 1: Florida
Game 2: Cincinnati
Game 3: Air Force
Game 4: Purdue
Game 5: M.A.C.
Game 6: Indiana
Game 7: Penn State
Game 8: Rutgers
Game 9: Minnesota
Saturday, 11 November @ Maryland Stadium
Michigan 35-10 Maryland
8-2, B1G 5-2
One has to feel for the terrible Terrapins of Maryland, unwelcome as they are in the B1G, because in the first three games of the season they lost for the rest of the year both their starting quarterback, Tyrrell Pigrome, & backup quarterback, Kasim Hill; they soldiered on for most of the year with third-string quarterback Max Bortenschlager, though the valiant Wolverines also faced fourth-stringer Ryan Brand. Who knows what the year might have been like had either Pigrome or Hill been uninjured.
Michigan led 28-0 at the half & played extremely conservatively in the second half. 'Twas extremely valuable experience for young Maize & Blue quarterback Brandon Peters, who threw two touchdown passes to complement the three rushing touchdowns, including two by Chris Evans. Evans surpassed five hundred rushing yards for the season, joining Karan Higdon & Ty Isaac, giving Michigan three rushers with five hundred-plus yards in the same season for the first time in a quarter century, since 1991. Blessedly, placekicker Quinn Nordin made all five extra point kicks.
Saturday, 18 November @ Camp Randall Stadium
(№ 5) Wisconsin 24-10 Michigan
8-3, B1G 5-3
Camp Randall is a tough place for any visiting club to win & the valiant Wolverines didn't do themselves any favors by allowing the pesky Badgers, whose bread & butter is their rushing attack, to score on a punt return for a touchdown in the first quarter. Still, Uncle Don's Murder Machine kept that trademark rushing attack contained & the offense managed a touchdown to go into halftime tied 7-7. Michigan mustered a third-quarter field goal to take a 10-7 lead, but that was all the offense could manage against the stout Wisconsin defense. The Murder Machine did a credible job against the pesky Badgers, but yielded two touchdowns & a field goal in the second half. Holding the pesky Badgers to twenty-four was not ideal, but it should have been enough, except for the valiant Wolverines' lethargic offense. Of course, none of this was helped by Peters being knocked out of the game by a clean tackle from a Wisconsin defender that, unfortunately, led to Peters being driven into the turf head-first. Peters was carted off the field & replaced by John O'Korn.
We all know that Michigan's "skill" players are young, in many cases true freshmen & true sophomores, but by this point in the season that excuse was beginning to wear awfully thin, especially given that Wisconsin's quarterback Alex Hornibrook is a redshirt sophomore & leading rusher Jonathan Taylor is a true freshman (B1G Freshman of the Year, first-team All-B1G, second-team All-American). This was an excruciatingly frustrating year, with Michigan's problems running deeper than quarterback. It's plain to see the almost unlimited potential of so many of our young players, but it is growing increasingly difficult to wait patiently for that potential to be realized, especially as the losses kept piling up. We all knew 2017 was going to be a step backward from 2015 & 2016, what with all the graduations & departures of our best & most experienced players on both offense & defense, but very few of us thought the offense would take as big a step backward as it did. In many ways the Harbaugh rebuilding project remains ahead of schedule, but the quick (relative) success in the first two years (Teams 136 & 137) created expectations that the third year (Team 138) comprehensively failed to meet.
Saturday, 25 November @ Michigan Stadium
(№ 8) Ohio State 31-20 Michigan
8-4, B1G 5-4
The most fascinating thing about The Game is that is was a game at all. On paper, with John O'Korn starting as Michigan's quarterback, the valiant Wolverines should not have had a snowflake's chance in the furnace against the hated Buckeyes, yet for much of the game, much to my astonishment, Michigan actually seemed to hold the advantage over Ohio State. Uncle Don's Murder Machine held the vaunted Ohio State offense under seventeenth-year starting quarterback J. T. Barrett IV to minus-six yards in the first quarter! The valiant Wolverines led 14-0 early in the second quarter before the hated Buckeyes stormed back to tie the proceedings at 14-14 at the half. I'd dutifully tuned into The Game expecting to see a rout, essentially a funeral, & was bemused to find myself actually harboring not-entirely-improbable fantasies about a Michigan victory. In the third quarter, the archrivals traded touchdowns, Ohio State holding a 21-20 advantage due to blocking a Michigan extra-point attempt. The game was still eminently winnable until late in the fourth quarter, with Ohio State leading 24-20, when John O'Korn through the most John O'Korn-like interception of his whole misbegotten career at Michigan. That was the final straw that broke the valiant Wolverines' backs & just three plays later (all runs) Ohio State scored a touchdown to seal the 31-20 defeat.
Afterward, much to his credit as a human being, John O'Korn wept during the post-game press conference, taking responsibility for the interception. As I wrote earlier in this series of catch-up posts, John O'Korn might well be a terrific person. He clearly cares about his coaches teammates & is personally hurt by letting them down.
Still, it was pleasing & most unexpected that the valiant Wolverines gave the hated Buckeyes such a hard time, almost more than they could handle. That should have been cold consolation, but I'd marked the Ohio State game down as an all-but-certain defeat from the initial offensive struggles way back in September; so, it actually left me with an almost warm & fuzzy feeling inside. For the second year in a row, the valiant Wolverines had the all-conquering hated Buckeyes on the ropes, only to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory. After a decade of decline, disaster, & futility, we are so close! Make no mistake, it hurts like crazy to lose to Ohio State year after year, to not hold up our end of what is supposed to be a rivalry of equals. I spent most of the 2017 college football season paralyzed in inarticulate frustration, & at times I muttered intemperate things about Coach Harbaugh & his highly overpaid assistant coaches. But the truth, my fellow Wolverines, is that the hole we got ourselves into was deep, & took years to dig; it's taking longer than any of us would like to dig ourselves out again, but that is the penance we must pay for the hubris that got us into this mess in the first place. Our rivals are at the top of their game, among the very best clubs in the whole country, & nothing but the very best will topple them from their lofty perches. We are so close to being Michigan again! So close to truly being the leaders & best! Stay the course. "Those who stay will be champions."
Go Blue!
Game 1: Florida
Game 2: Cincinnati
Game 3: Air Force
Game 4: Purdue
Game 5: M.A.C.
Game 6: Indiana
Game 7: Penn State
Game 8: Rutgers
Game 9: Minnesota
Saturday, 11 November @ Maryland Stadium
Michigan 35-10 Maryland
8-2, B1G 5-2
One has to feel for the terrible Terrapins of Maryland, unwelcome as they are in the B1G, because in the first three games of the season they lost for the rest of the year both their starting quarterback, Tyrrell Pigrome, & backup quarterback, Kasim Hill; they soldiered on for most of the year with third-string quarterback Max Bortenschlager, though the valiant Wolverines also faced fourth-stringer Ryan Brand. Who knows what the year might have been like had either Pigrome or Hill been uninjured.
Michigan led 28-0 at the half & played extremely conservatively in the second half. 'Twas extremely valuable experience for young Maize & Blue quarterback Brandon Peters, who threw two touchdown passes to complement the three rushing touchdowns, including two by Chris Evans. Evans surpassed five hundred rushing yards for the season, joining Karan Higdon & Ty Isaac, giving Michigan three rushers with five hundred-plus yards in the same season for the first time in a quarter century, since 1991. Blessedly, placekicker Quinn Nordin made all five extra point kicks.
Saturday, 18 November @ Camp Randall Stadium
(№ 5) Wisconsin 24-10 Michigan
8-3, B1G 5-3
Camp Randall is a tough place for any visiting club to win & the valiant Wolverines didn't do themselves any favors by allowing the pesky Badgers, whose bread & butter is their rushing attack, to score on a punt return for a touchdown in the first quarter. Still, Uncle Don's Murder Machine kept that trademark rushing attack contained & the offense managed a touchdown to go into halftime tied 7-7. Michigan mustered a third-quarter field goal to take a 10-7 lead, but that was all the offense could manage against the stout Wisconsin defense. The Murder Machine did a credible job against the pesky Badgers, but yielded two touchdowns & a field goal in the second half. Holding the pesky Badgers to twenty-four was not ideal, but it should have been enough, except for the valiant Wolverines' lethargic offense. Of course, none of this was helped by Peters being knocked out of the game by a clean tackle from a Wisconsin defender that, unfortunately, led to Peters being driven into the turf head-first. Peters was carted off the field & replaced by John O'Korn.
We all know that Michigan's "skill" players are young, in many cases true freshmen & true sophomores, but by this point in the season that excuse was beginning to wear awfully thin, especially given that Wisconsin's quarterback Alex Hornibrook is a redshirt sophomore & leading rusher Jonathan Taylor is a true freshman (B1G Freshman of the Year, first-team All-B1G, second-team All-American). This was an excruciatingly frustrating year, with Michigan's problems running deeper than quarterback. It's plain to see the almost unlimited potential of so many of our young players, but it is growing increasingly difficult to wait patiently for that potential to be realized, especially as the losses kept piling up. We all knew 2017 was going to be a step backward from 2015 & 2016, what with all the graduations & departures of our best & most experienced players on both offense & defense, but very few of us thought the offense would take as big a step backward as it did. In many ways the Harbaugh rebuilding project remains ahead of schedule, but the quick (relative) success in the first two years (Teams 136 & 137) created expectations that the third year (Team 138) comprehensively failed to meet.
Saturday, 25 November @ Michigan Stadium
(№ 8) Ohio State 31-20 Michigan
8-4, B1G 5-4
The most fascinating thing about The Game is that is was a game at all. On paper, with John O'Korn starting as Michigan's quarterback, the valiant Wolverines should not have had a snowflake's chance in the furnace against the hated Buckeyes, yet for much of the game, much to my astonishment, Michigan actually seemed to hold the advantage over Ohio State. Uncle Don's Murder Machine held the vaunted Ohio State offense under seventeenth-year starting quarterback J. T. Barrett IV to minus-six yards in the first quarter! The valiant Wolverines led 14-0 early in the second quarter before the hated Buckeyes stormed back to tie the proceedings at 14-14 at the half. I'd dutifully tuned into The Game expecting to see a rout, essentially a funeral, & was bemused to find myself actually harboring not-entirely-improbable fantasies about a Michigan victory. In the third quarter, the archrivals traded touchdowns, Ohio State holding a 21-20 advantage due to blocking a Michigan extra-point attempt. The game was still eminently winnable until late in the fourth quarter, with Ohio State leading 24-20, when John O'Korn through the most John O'Korn-like interception of his whole misbegotten career at Michigan. That was the final straw that broke the valiant Wolverines' backs & just three plays later (all runs) Ohio State scored a touchdown to seal the 31-20 defeat.
Afterward, much to his credit as a human being, John O'Korn wept during the post-game press conference, taking responsibility for the interception. As I wrote earlier in this series of catch-up posts, John O'Korn might well be a terrific person. He clearly cares about his coaches teammates & is personally hurt by letting them down.
Still, it was pleasing & most unexpected that the valiant Wolverines gave the hated Buckeyes such a hard time, almost more than they could handle. That should have been cold consolation, but I'd marked the Ohio State game down as an all-but-certain defeat from the initial offensive struggles way back in September; so, it actually left me with an almost warm & fuzzy feeling inside. For the second year in a row, the valiant Wolverines had the all-conquering hated Buckeyes on the ropes, only to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory. After a decade of decline, disaster, & futility, we are so close! Make no mistake, it hurts like crazy to lose to Ohio State year after year, to not hold up our end of what is supposed to be a rivalry of equals. I spent most of the 2017 college football season paralyzed in inarticulate frustration, & at times I muttered intemperate things about Coach Harbaugh & his highly overpaid assistant coaches. But the truth, my fellow Wolverines, is that the hole we got ourselves into was deep, & took years to dig; it's taking longer than any of us would like to dig ourselves out again, but that is the penance we must pay for the hubris that got us into this mess in the first place. Our rivals are at the top of their game, among the very best clubs in the whole country, & nothing but the very best will topple them from their lofty perches. We are so close to being Michigan again! So close to truly being the leaders & best! Stay the course. "Those who stay will be champions."
Go Blue!
Project BLACK MAMBA: The Feast of the Holy Family
Seventh Day within the Octave of the Nativity of the Lord
'Tis the Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, & Joseph: Holy Family-link & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine. Quoth the Holy Redeemer bulletin:
Mass Readings—Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, & Joseph
The Book of Sirach, chapter three, verses two thru six, twelve, thirteen, & fourteen;
or, the Book of Genesis, chapter fifteen, verses one thru six & chapter twenty-one, verses one thru three;
Psalm One Hundred Twenty-eight, verses one & two, three, & four & five;
or, Psalm One Hundred Five, verses one & two, three & four, five & six, & eight & nine;
The Letter to the Colossians, chapter three, verses twelve thru twenty-one
(or, the Letter to the Colossians, chapter three, verses twelve thru seventeen);
or, the Letter to the Hebrews, chapter eleven, verses eight, eleven, twelve, seventeen, eighteen, & nineteen;
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter two, verses twenty-two thru forty
(or, the Gospel according to Luke, chapter two, verses twenty-two, thirty-nine, & forty).
Commentary: Reflection by Bishop Robert Barron (Word on Fire):
What makes a family holy is its capacity to surrender itself to a higher goal, as in Aristotle’s definition of friendship. When the family turns in on itself, it devolves into dysfunction. "If you love someone, set them free," says the famous quotation attributed to American writer Richard Bach. The holy family is one that is free for God’s work.Video reflection by Father Greg Friedman, O.F.M.: United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
Video reflection by Jeff Cavins: Encountering the Word.
Audio reflection by Scott Hahn, Ph.D.: Breaking the Bread.
Mass Journal: Week One
Reflection by Matthew Kelly, founder of the Dynamic Catholic Institute:
Otherwise, 31 December would be the festival of Saint Sylvester I, Pope (died 335), thirty-third Bishop of Rome: Saint-link ūnus, Saint-link duo, Saint-link trēs, & Wikipedia-link; Wikipedia-link Pontiff.
Commentary: Wayback Machine. Quoth the Holy Family bulletin:
'Twould also be the festival of Saint Jean-François Régis, Priest, S.J. (1597-1640, Anglicized as John Francis Regis): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
Saint Quote o' the Day
From "Heroes' Words" in 54-Day Basic Training in Holiness by Father Richard Heilman:
The Popish Plot—Saintly Sunday: "Santa Stories, Part 2"
'Tis the Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, & Joseph: Holy Family-link & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine. Quoth the Holy Redeemer bulletin:
The primary purpose of this feast is to present the Holy Family as a model for Christian families.Scripture of the Week
Mass Readings—Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, & Joseph
The Book of Sirach, chapter three, verses two thru six, twelve, thirteen, & fourteen;
or, the Book of Genesis, chapter fifteen, verses one thru six & chapter twenty-one, verses one thru three;
Psalm One Hundred Twenty-eight, verses one & two, three, & four & five;
or, Psalm One Hundred Five, verses one & two, three & four, five & six, & eight & nine;
The Letter to the Colossians, chapter three, verses twelve thru twenty-one
(or, the Letter to the Colossians, chapter three, verses twelve thru seventeen);
or, the Letter to the Hebrews, chapter eleven, verses eight, eleven, twelve, seventeen, eighteen, & nineteen;
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter two, verses twenty-two thru forty
(or, the Gospel according to Luke, chapter two, verses twenty-two, thirty-nine, & forty).
Commentary: Reflection by Bishop Robert Barron (Word on Fire):
Friends, today we celebrate the feast of the Holy Family. The Gospel presents the life of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph as a model for our families.ecclesiola, a little Church. And the Church’s purpose is to discern and foster the missions of its people.
We spend a lot of time worrying about our family’s welfare. Will we have enough money to send the kids to the best schools? Will they find and establish a lucrative career? Will they fit into polite society?
But the only question that finally matters is: have they found their mission from God? The family is meant to be, as John Paul II described it, an
What makes a family holy is its capacity to surrender itself to a higher goal, as in Aristotle’s definition of friendship. When the family turns in on itself, it devolves into dysfunction. "If you love someone, set them free," says the famous quotation attributed to American writer Richard Bach. The holy family is one that is free for God’s work.Video reflection by Father Greg Friedman, O.F.M.: United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
Video reflection by Jeff Cavins: Encountering the Word.
Audio reflection by Scott Hahn, Ph.D.: Breaking the Bread.
Mass Journal: Week One
Reflection by Matthew Kelly, founder of the Dynamic Catholic Institute:
There are 1.2 billion [1,200,000,000] Catholics in the world. There are sixty-seven million [67,000,000] Catholics in America—that's at least fifteen million [15,000,000] more people than it takes to elect an American president. And every single day the Catholic Church feeds, houses, & clothes more people, takes care of more sick people, visits more prisoners, & educates more people than any other institution on the face of the earth could ever hope to.Commentary: 'Tis not quite yet the New Year, but 'tis the season for a new Mass Journal. I am considering, for next year, beginning a new Mass Journal on the First Sunday of Advent—the first day of the new liturgical year—instead of on the Sunday closest to New Year's Day.
Otherwise, 31 December would be the festival of Saint Sylvester I, Pope (died 335), thirty-third Bishop of Rome: Saint-link ūnus, Saint-link duo, Saint-link trēs, & Wikipedia-link; Wikipedia-link Pontiff.
Commentary: Wayback Machine. Quoth the Holy Family bulletin:
St. Sylvester was elected pope in 314. he contributed greatly to the expansion of the Church after the peace of Constantine. He is the first saint not a martyr to be venerated in the Church.'Twould also be the festival of Saints Melania the Younger (circa 383-439) & Pinian, Religious (circa 381-438, A.K.A. Valerius Pinianus): Saint-link Mike & Wikipedia-link Mike, Saint-link Papa & Wikipedia-link Papa.
'Twould also be the festival of Saint Jean-François Régis, Priest, S.J. (1597-1640, Anglicized as John Francis Regis): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
Saint Quote o' the Day
From "Heroes' Words" in 54-Day Basic Training in Holiness by Father Richard Heilman:
"Let your old age be childlike, & your childhood like old age; that is, so that neither may your wisdom be with pride, nor your humility without wisdom."A Humble Contribution to the New Evangelization
—St. Augustine of Hippo, Doctor of the Church (354-430, feast day: 28 August)
The Popish Plot—Saintly Sunday: "Santa Stories, Part 2"
The Rebel Black Dot Song o' the Holy Family
Duvall, "Away in a Manger" from O Holy Night (The Last Jolly Man)
Saturday, December 30, 2017
The Victors: Our Bowling League
As of this writing, the Big Ten Conference (B1G) is 7-0 in the 2017-2018 college football bowl season.
Saturday, 30 December — Orange Bowl
(№ 6) Wisconsin 34-24 Miami (№ 11)
Saturday, 30 December — Fiesta Bowl
(№ 9) Penn State 35-28 Washington (№ 12)
Friday, 29 December — Cotton Bowl
(№ 5) Ohio State 24-7 U.S.C. (№ 8)
Friday, 29 December — Music City Bowl
(№ 20) Northwestern 24-23 Kentucky
Thursday, 28 December — Holiday Bowl
(№ 18) Michigan Agricultural 42-17 Washington State (№ 21)
Wednesday, 27 December — (Sponsor) Bowl
Purdue 38-35 Arizona
Wednesday, 27 December — Pinstripe Bowl
Iowa 27-20 Boston College
The B1G Champions soundly defeated the Pac-12 Champions, the B1G runners-up topped the A.C.C. runners-up, & a B1G club defeated the Pac-12 runners-up. Of the other four victories, two were against the Pac-12—the ancient enemy—& one each against the S.E.C. & the A.C.C. That's 4-0 against the Pac-12, 2-0 against the A.C.C., & 1-0 against the S.E.C.
The valiant Wolverines are the final B1G club to play, on New Year's Day against the gamey Gamecocks of South Carolina (of the S.E.C.) in the (Sponsor) Bowl. The conference is perfect so far, guys; so, you know, let's not foul it up for everyone. 8-0 sounds much better than 7-1, yeah?
Go Blue!
Project BLACK MAMBA: Octave of the Nativity
'Tis the festival of Saint Egwin of Evesham, Bishop, O.S.B. (died circa 717; also spelt Ecgwine, A.K.A. of Worcester), founder of the Abbey of Evesham: Saint-link ūnus, Saint-link duo, & Wikipedia-link; Wikipedia-link Abbey.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
'Tis also the festival of Blessed Margherita Colonna, Abbess, O.S.C. (circa 1255-1284, Anglicized as Margaret Colonna): Blessed-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Tis also the festival of Blessed Eugenia Maria Ravasco, Religious (1845-1900), foundress of the Ravasco Institute, formally the Sisters of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus & Mary: Blessed-link & Wikipedia-link.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings—Sixth Day within the Octave of the Nativity of the Lord
The First Letter of John, chapter two, verses twelve thru seventeen;
Psalm Ninety-six, verses seven thru ten;
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter two, verses thirty-six thru forty.
Commentary: Reflection by Bishop Robert Barron (Word on Fire):
Saint Quote o' the Day
From "Heroes' Words" in 54-Day Basic Training in Holiness by Father Richard Heilman:
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
'Tis also the festival of Blessed Margherita Colonna, Abbess, O.S.C. (circa 1255-1284, Anglicized as Margaret Colonna): Blessed-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Tis also the festival of Blessed Eugenia Maria Ravasco, Religious (1845-1900), foundress of the Ravasco Institute, formally the Sisters of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus & Mary: Blessed-link & Wikipedia-link.
Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings—Sixth Day within the Octave of the Nativity of the Lord
The First Letter of John, chapter two, verses twelve thru seventeen;
Psalm Ninety-six, verses seven thru ten;
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter two, verses thirty-six thru forty.
Commentary: Reflection by Bishop Robert Barron (Word on Fire):
Friends, today the Gospel continues the account of the presentation of the Lord in the Temple. Why was the Temple so important for ancient Israel? In the Temple, divinity and humanity embraced, and the human race was brought back online with God.Video reflection by Greta Stokes Tucker: United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
There is more to the presentation story than the return of the Lord to his Temple, for he comes to his Temple precisely in human form, indeed in the form of a little baby. The Son of God, having taken to himself a human nature, is presented to the Father as a sacrifice, and thereby the human race is set right.
God himself is forming us in the right worship of God. Ponder the significance of that truth. This little baby is the reconciliation of divinity and humanity. He is the very essence of Temple worship.
Saint Quote o' the Day
From "Heroes' Words" in 54-Day Basic Training in Holiness by Father Richard Heilman:
"Temperance is a disposition that restrains our desires for things which it is base to desire."
—St. Augustine of Hippo, Doctor of the Church (354-430, feast day: 28 August)
The Rebel Black Dot Song o' the 6th Day o' Christmas
Sufjan Stevens, "What Child Is This Anyway?" from Songs for Christmas (The Last Jolly Man)
Commentary:
"What Child is this who laid to rest
On Mary's lap is sleeping,
Whom angels greet with anthems sweet,
Whole shepherds watch are keeping?
"This! This! is Christ the King,
Whom shepherds guard and angels sing!
Haste! Haste! to bring Him laud,
The Babe, the son of Mary!
"Why lies He in such mean estate
Where ox and ass are feeding?
Good Christian fear for sinners here,
The silent Word is pleading.
"Nails, spear shall pierce Him through,
The Cross he bore for me, for you,
Hail! Hail! the Word made flesh,
The Babe, the son of Mary!
"So bring Him incense, gold, and myrrh,
Come peasant, king to own Him,
The King of kings salvation brings,
Let loving hearts enthrone Him!"
The Victors: Team 138, Games 7, 8, & 9
The Wayback Machine Tour of The Victors: Team 138, Games 1-6
Game 1: Florida
Game 2: Cincinnati
Game 3: Air Force
Game 4: Purdue
Game 5: M.A.C.
Game 6: Indiana
Saturday, 21 October @ Beaver Stadium
(№ 2) Penn State 42-13 Michigan (№ 19)
5-2, B1G 2-2
In 2016, in "the Big House," the valiant Wolverines bested the ferocious Nittany Lions 49-10; a year later, amidst a "white out" night game in Happy Valley, Penn State coach James Franklin wanted revenge. Give Michigan's offensive woes, already present under incumbent starting quarterback Wilton Speight & exacerbated under second-string quarterback John O'Korn, it was expected that the valiant Wolverines would struggle against the ferocity of the Penn State faithful; less expected was the cluelessness of Uncle Don's Murder Machine. The ferocious Nittany Lions, a quick-starting team, quickly jumped out to a 14-0 start; disheartening, but not entirely unexpected. Surprisingly, though, the valiant Wolverines responded with a pair of touchdowns that would have tied the game had it not been for a missed field goal by increasingly erratic sophomore placekicker Quinn Nordin. Still, after the sock in the mouth, no one would have ever guessed a 14-13 score in the second quarter. Unfortunately, the rest of the night was all downhill for the men of the Maize & Blue.
Uncle Don's Murder Machine rightly focused on shutting down Penn State's Heisman-hopeful running back Saquon Barkley, but was then gashed by the legs—not the arm—of quarterback Trace McSorley, who ran for three touchdowns! The Murder Machine was thoroughly beaten, giving up three rushing touchdown to a quarterback who is not particularly noted as a runner, but who on that night looked like the second coming of Fran Tarkenton. After Michigan's missed extra point made it 14-13, the ferocious Nittany Lions scored, then scored again, then scored twice more for good measure, while the valiant Wolverines could muster no response, resulting in a 42-13 drubbing.
Saturday, 28 October @ Michigan Stadium—Homecoming
Michigan 35-14 Rutgers
6-2, B1G 3-2
Despite the festivity of Homecoming, gloom & doom hung over "the Big House" as the unworthy Scarlet Knights of Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey came to Ann Arbor & dueled the valiant Wolverines to a 7-7 tie early in the second quarter. Under John O'Korn, the Michigan offense just didn't work. There was no such thing as a simple play. Nothing came easily. Nothing was routine. The question mark that has swirled since Speight was lost to injury was redshirt freshman Brandon Peters. Such were Michigan's offensive straits under the senior O'Korn that the hearts of the Maize & Blue faithful, both those in the stadium & us watching at home, stirred when Peters was inserted into the game. Would he succeed? Would he fail? The thrill of uncertainty was invigorating compared to the certain futility of life with O'Korn under center. A road game at Penn State would have been a suicide mission, but a home game against Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey was just about the ideal trial by fire for an inexperienced young Q.B.
Everything changed with young Peters in the game. All of a sudden, the valiant Wolverines' offense was minumally functional! Dare one say, adequate! A heavy dose of running saw both junior Karan Higdon & senior Ty Isaac rush for one hundred-plus yards as the yearly insult of having to face off against Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey was mildly ameliorated by a victory that was more lopsided than the score.
Saturday, 4 November @ Michigan Stadium
Michigan 33-10 Minnesota
7-2, B1G 4-2
As if Minnesota's new head coach P. J. Fleck wasn't annoying enough on his own (& he is), he has deep ties to the hated Buckeyes; so, I wish him nothing but disaster & defeat throughout this career. The highlight of the valiant Wolverine's workmanlike victory over the scrappy Golden Gophers was three long touchdown runs, of seventy-seven yards by Hidgon, sixty yards & sophomore Chris Evans, & sixty-seven yards by Evans. The Gophers might well row the boat, but they don't play run defense terribly well. Michigan placekicker Quinn Nordin missed another routine extra point attempt; so, in the fourth quarter, Coach Harbaugh ordered a two-point attempt (which failed, because instead of giving the ball to Khalid Hill, the "Hammering Panda," Michigan's stout short-yardage specialist, the ball inexplicably went to the faster & more lithe Evans, who couldn't quite pound it up the middle as the Hammering Panda so often does).
In Brandon Peters's second game as Michigan's starting quarterback, the valiant Wolverines looked, blessedly, normal. They weren't fancy. They didn't look like world-beaters or prospective conference champions, but after the paralysis & dysfunction of O'Korn's tenure, normal was entirely satisfactory & pleasant.
Go Blue!
Game 1: Florida
Game 2: Cincinnati
Game 3: Air Force
Game 4: Purdue
Game 5: M.A.C.
Game 6: Indiana
Saturday, 21 October @ Beaver Stadium
(№ 2) Penn State 42-13 Michigan (№ 19)
5-2, B1G 2-2
In 2016, in "the Big House," the valiant Wolverines bested the ferocious Nittany Lions 49-10; a year later, amidst a "white out" night game in Happy Valley, Penn State coach James Franklin wanted revenge. Give Michigan's offensive woes, already present under incumbent starting quarterback Wilton Speight & exacerbated under second-string quarterback John O'Korn, it was expected that the valiant Wolverines would struggle against the ferocity of the Penn State faithful; less expected was the cluelessness of Uncle Don's Murder Machine. The ferocious Nittany Lions, a quick-starting team, quickly jumped out to a 14-0 start; disheartening, but not entirely unexpected. Surprisingly, though, the valiant Wolverines responded with a pair of touchdowns that would have tied the game had it not been for a missed field goal by increasingly erratic sophomore placekicker Quinn Nordin. Still, after the sock in the mouth, no one would have ever guessed a 14-13 score in the second quarter. Unfortunately, the rest of the night was all downhill for the men of the Maize & Blue.
Uncle Don's Murder Machine rightly focused on shutting down Penn State's Heisman-hopeful running back Saquon Barkley, but was then gashed by the legs—not the arm—of quarterback Trace McSorley, who ran for three touchdowns! The Murder Machine was thoroughly beaten, giving up three rushing touchdown to a quarterback who is not particularly noted as a runner, but who on that night looked like the second coming of Fran Tarkenton. After Michigan's missed extra point made it 14-13, the ferocious Nittany Lions scored, then scored again, then scored twice more for good measure, while the valiant Wolverines could muster no response, resulting in a 42-13 drubbing.
Saturday, 28 October @ Michigan Stadium—Homecoming
Michigan 35-14 Rutgers
6-2, B1G 3-2
Despite the festivity of Homecoming, gloom & doom hung over "the Big House" as the unworthy Scarlet Knights of Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey came to Ann Arbor & dueled the valiant Wolverines to a 7-7 tie early in the second quarter. Under John O'Korn, the Michigan offense just didn't work. There was no such thing as a simple play. Nothing came easily. Nothing was routine. The question mark that has swirled since Speight was lost to injury was redshirt freshman Brandon Peters. Such were Michigan's offensive straits under the senior O'Korn that the hearts of the Maize & Blue faithful, both those in the stadium & us watching at home, stirred when Peters was inserted into the game. Would he succeed? Would he fail? The thrill of uncertainty was invigorating compared to the certain futility of life with O'Korn under center. A road game at Penn State would have been a suicide mission, but a home game against Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey was just about the ideal trial by fire for an inexperienced young Q.B.
Everything changed with young Peters in the game. All of a sudden, the valiant Wolverines' offense was minumally functional! Dare one say, adequate! A heavy dose of running saw both junior Karan Higdon & senior Ty Isaac rush for one hundred-plus yards as the yearly insult of having to face off against Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey was mildly ameliorated by a victory that was more lopsided than the score.
Saturday, 4 November @ Michigan Stadium
Michigan 33-10 Minnesota
7-2, B1G 4-2
As if Minnesota's new head coach P. J. Fleck wasn't annoying enough on his own (& he is), he has deep ties to the hated Buckeyes; so, I wish him nothing but disaster & defeat throughout this career. The highlight of the valiant Wolverine's workmanlike victory over the scrappy Golden Gophers was three long touchdown runs, of seventy-seven yards by Hidgon, sixty yards & sophomore Chris Evans, & sixty-seven yards by Evans. The Gophers might well row the boat, but they don't play run defense terribly well. Michigan placekicker Quinn Nordin missed another routine extra point attempt; so, in the fourth quarter, Coach Harbaugh ordered a two-point attempt (which failed, because instead of giving the ball to Khalid Hill, the "Hammering Panda," Michigan's stout short-yardage specialist, the ball inexplicably went to the faster & more lithe Evans, who couldn't quite pound it up the middle as the Hammering Panda so often does).
In Brandon Peters's second game as Michigan's starting quarterback, the valiant Wolverines looked, blessedly, normal. They weren't fancy. They didn't look like world-beaters or prospective conference champions, but after the paralysis & dysfunction of O'Korn's tenure, normal was entirely satisfactory & pleasant.
Go Blue!
Friday, December 29, 2017
The Victors: Team 138, Games 4, 5, & 6
I regret the paucity of "The Victors" posts in the Fall of '17. I will not apologize for prioritizing "The Explorers' Club," Project BLACK MAMBA, & the R.B.D.S.O.T.D., but I do regret that I did not also make more time to cover the college football season.
The Wayback Machine Tour of The Victors: Team 138 (non-conference schedule):
Game 1: Florida
Game 2: Cincinnati
Game 3: Air Force
Saturday, 23 September @ Ross-Ade Stadium
(№ 8) Michigan 28-10 Purdue
4-0, B1G 1-0
As poorly as Wilton Speight has played in the first three games of the season, my heart still sank when he went out with an injury, of course worried for the young man's health, but also for the valiant Wolverines' fortunes with John O'Korn in at quarterback. What followed was, much to my Purdue-alumnus father's dismay, O'Korn's finest performance as a quarterback at the University of Michigan. Ominously for Team 138's fortunes in the remainder of the season, 'twas truly O'Korn's finest performance as a quarterback at the University of Michigan.
Uncle Don's Murder Machine murderized the well-engineered Boilermakers' offense, holding Purdue to zero for twelve on third-down conversions & zero first downs at all in the second half.
Saturday, 7 October @ Michigan Stadium
Michigan Agricultural 14-10 Michigan (№ 7)
4-1, B1G 1-1
Both the valiant Wolverines & the dastardly Spartans tried their level best to lose the game, held amidst a torrential downpour, but in the end, led by an unbelievable five turnovers, the valiant Wolverines won the race to the bottom, losing the game & the hideous Paul Bunyan Trophy. John O'Korn might be a fantastic human being, a real stand-up guy, but he is a profoundly inept college quarterback. After the game, he took personal responsibility for the three interceptions he threw to seal the M.A.C. victory; during the game, he threw three terrible interceptions. The passes he threw to the dastardly Spartans were far & away the most accurate passes he threw all night.
The Monday after the M.A.C. game, a new participant showed up at my Monday-night Bible study. As is my habit after a loss, I was wearing Michigan gear. (Any fair-weather fan can support his club after a victory, but the dyed-in-the-wool fan knows that the crucial time to show team spirit is after a loss.) A Spartan fan, this new participant took the opportunity to mock me for the 2015 Michigan-M.A.C. game. Not the game held just two days prior, not Michigan's 2016 victory at Spartan Stadium, but the '15 game. What can I say? That's the petty M.A.C. mindset. I was gracious to her & in my e-mail about the next week's session thanked her for extending to me the opportunity to be kind to someone who had been cruel to me; oddly, she never showed up for another Bible study session after that. Of course, as an M.A.C. fan, I presume she's functionally illiterate; so, she probably didn't show up out of embarrassment that she wouldn't be able to keep up with the weekly reading.
Saturday, 14 October @ Memorial Stadium
(№ 17) Michigan 27-20 Indiana (O.T.)
5-1, B1G 2-1
Uncle Don's Murder Machine looked decidedly less murder-y against the wily Hoosiers than it had on the previous visit to the State of Indiana, against Purdue. The Indiana offense was surprisingly effective & the Michigan offense continued to struggle to execute even basic plays, with the valiant Wolverines requiring overtime time to earn the victory. Such were Michigan's struggles that despite leaving Bloomington with the "W," the "Fighting Harbaughs" still dropped two places in the Associated Press poll. Worse was to come.
Go Blue!
The Wayback Machine Tour of The Victors: Team 138 (non-conference schedule):
Game 1: Florida
Game 2: Cincinnati
Game 3: Air Force
Saturday, 23 September @ Ross-Ade Stadium
(№ 8) Michigan 28-10 Purdue
4-0, B1G 1-0
As poorly as Wilton Speight has played in the first three games of the season, my heart still sank when he went out with an injury, of course worried for the young man's health, but also for the valiant Wolverines' fortunes with John O'Korn in at quarterback. What followed was, much to my Purdue-alumnus father's dismay, O'Korn's finest performance as a quarterback at the University of Michigan. Ominously for Team 138's fortunes in the remainder of the season, 'twas truly O'Korn's finest performance as a quarterback at the University of Michigan.
Uncle Don's Murder Machine murderized the well-engineered Boilermakers' offense, holding Purdue to zero for twelve on third-down conversions & zero first downs at all in the second half.
Saturday, 7 October @ Michigan Stadium
Michigan Agricultural 14-10 Michigan (№ 7)
4-1, B1G 1-1
Both the valiant Wolverines & the dastardly Spartans tried their level best to lose the game, held amidst a torrential downpour, but in the end, led by an unbelievable five turnovers, the valiant Wolverines won the race to the bottom, losing the game & the hideous Paul Bunyan Trophy. John O'Korn might be a fantastic human being, a real stand-up guy, but he is a profoundly inept college quarterback. After the game, he took personal responsibility for the three interceptions he threw to seal the M.A.C. victory; during the game, he threw three terrible interceptions. The passes he threw to the dastardly Spartans were far & away the most accurate passes he threw all night.
The Monday after the M.A.C. game, a new participant showed up at my Monday-night Bible study. As is my habit after a loss, I was wearing Michigan gear. (Any fair-weather fan can support his club after a victory, but the dyed-in-the-wool fan knows that the crucial time to show team spirit is after a loss.) A Spartan fan, this new participant took the opportunity to mock me for the 2015 Michigan-M.A.C. game. Not the game held just two days prior, not Michigan's 2016 victory at Spartan Stadium, but the '15 game. What can I say? That's the petty M.A.C. mindset. I was gracious to her & in my e-mail about the next week's session thanked her for extending to me the opportunity to be kind to someone who had been cruel to me; oddly, she never showed up for another Bible study session after that. Of course, as an M.A.C. fan, I presume she's functionally illiterate; so, she probably didn't show up out of embarrassment that she wouldn't be able to keep up with the weekly reading.
Saturday, 14 October @ Memorial Stadium
(№ 17) Michigan 27-20 Indiana (O.T.)
5-1, B1G 2-1
Uncle Don's Murder Machine looked decidedly less murder-y against the wily Hoosiers than it had on the previous visit to the State of Indiana, against Purdue. The Indiana offense was surprisingly effective & the Michigan offense continued to struggle to execute even basic plays, with the valiant Wolverines requiring overtime time to earn the victory. Such were Michigan's struggles that despite leaving Bloomington with the "W," the "Fighting Harbaughs" still dropped two places in the Associated Press poll. Worse was to come.
Go Blue!
Project BLACK MAMBA: Octave of the Nativity
"The future starts today, not tomorrow."
—Pope Saint John Paul II (the Great; 1920-2005, feast day: 22 October)
'Tis the Optional Memorial of Saint Thomas Becket, Bishop & Martyr (circa 1118-1170, A.K.A. of Canterbury), martyred in the reign of the king Henry II: Martyr-link ūnus, Martyr-link duo, & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine. Quoth the Holy Redeemer bulletin:
He was Archbishop of Canterbury from 1162 until his murder in 1170. He engaged in conflict with Henry II, King of England, over the rights & privileges of the Church & was murdered.'Tis also the festival of Blessed Peter the Venerable, Abbot, O.S.B. (circa 1092-1156, A.K.A. of Montboissier), ninth Abbot of the influential Abbey of Cluny: Blessed-link & Wikipedia-link; Wikipedia-link Abbots & Wikipedia-link Abbey.
'Tis also the festival of Blessed William Howard, Martyr (1614-1680), first Viscount Stafford, martyred in the reign of the king Charles II, a victim of the perjurer Titus Oates's "Popish Plot" hoax: Martyr-link & Wikipedia-link; Wikipedia-link Popish Plot.
Scripture of This Day
Mass Readings—Fifth Day within the Octave of the Nativity of the Lord
The First Letter of John, chapter two, verses three thru eleven;
Psalm Ninety-six, verses one & two(a), two(b) & three, & five(b) & six;
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter two, verses twenty-two thru thirty-five.
Commentary: Reflection by Bishop Robert Barron (Word on Fire):
Friends, today’s Gospel tells the story of the presentation of Jesus in the Temple. The Temple was, in practically a literal sense, the dwelling place of the Lord. In the Temple, divinity and humanity embraced, and the human race was brought back online with God.Video reflection by Deacon Mike Pawelek: United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
But the sins of the nation had, according to the prophet Ezekiel, caused the glory of the Lord to depart from the Temple. Therefore, one of the deepest aspirations of Israel’s people was to reestablish the Temple as the place of right praise so that the glory of the Lord might return. When Joseph and Mary bring the infant Jesus into the Temple, therefore, we are meant to appreciate that the prophecy of Ezekiel is being fulfilled. The glory of Yahweh is returning to his favorite dwelling. And this is precisely what Simeon sees.
The old seer is a symbol of ancient Israel, watching and waiting for the coming of the Messiah. Simeon knew all of the old prophecies; he embodied the expectation of the nation; and the Holy Spirit had given him the revelation that he would not die until he had laid eyes on his Savior.
Bible Study—Catholic Letters
The First Letter of John, chapter one (verses one thru ten);
The First Letter of John, chapter two (verses one thru twenty-nine);
The First Letter of John, chapter three (verses one thru twenty-four);
The First Letter of John, chapter four (verses one thru twenty-one);
The First Letter of John, chapter five (verses one thru twenty-one);
The Second Letter of John (verses one thru thirteen);
The Third Letter of John (verses one thru fifteen).
Commentary: The Word of Life (1 John, 1:1-4), God Is Light (1:5-10), Christ Our Advocate (2:1-6), A New Commandment (2:7-17), Warning against Antichrists (2:18-27), Children of God (2:28-3:10), Love One Another (3:11-24), Testing the Spirits (4:1-6), God Is Love (4:7-21), Faith Conquers the World (5:1-5), Testimony Concerning the Son of God (5:6-12), & Epilogue (5:13-21); Salutation (2 John, 1-3), Truth & Love (4-11), & Final Greetings (12-13); & Salutation (3 John, 1), Gaius Commended for His Hospitality (2-8), Diotrephes & Demetrius (9-12), & Final Greetings (13-15).
Saint Quote o' the Day
From "Heroes' Words" in 54-Day Basic Training in Holiness by Father Richard Heilman:
"Our body has this defect that, the more it is provided care & comforts, the more needs & desires it finds."
—St. Teresa of Ávila, Doctor of the Church (1515-1582, feast day: 15 October)
The Rebel Black Dot Song o' the 5th Day o' Christmas
Séan McCann, "Merry Christmas, Everyone" from Happy Holidays, from Séan! (The Last Jolly Man)
Commentary:
"A Child is born, forever,
A Child is born for everyone,
Lift up your hearts and hear His laughter,
A new year has begun…"
Project BLACK MAMBA: The Long Road Back, Part VIII
Advent
Saturday, 23 December was the Optional Memorial of Saint John of Kanty, Priest (1390-1473, A.K.A. John Cantius): Saint-link ūnus, Saint-link duo, & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine. Quoth the Holy Redeemer bulletin:
'Twas also the festival of Blessed Hartmann of Brixen, Bishop (circa 1090-1164): Blessed-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Twas also the festival of Saint John Stone, Religious & Martyr, O.S.A. (died circa 1539), martyred in the reign of the king Henry VIII, one of the Forty Martyrs of England & Wales: Martyr-link & Wikipedia-link; Wikipedia-link XL.
Scripture of That Day
Mass Readings—Advent Weekday
The Book of Malachi, chapter three, verses one thru four, twenty-three, & twenty-four;
Psalm Twenty-five, verses four & five(a/b), eight & nine, & ten & fourteen;
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter one, verses fifty-seven thru sixty-six.
Commentary: Reflection by Bishop Robert Barron (Word on Fire):
Mass Readings—Optional Memorial of St. John of Kanty
The Letter of James, chapter two, verses fourteen thru seventeen;
Psalm One Hundred Twelve, verse one;
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter six, verses twenty-seven thru thirty-eight.
Saturday, 23 December was the Optional Memorial of Saint John of Kanty, Priest (1390-1473, A.K.A. John Cantius): Saint-link ūnus, Saint-link duo, & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine. Quoth the Holy Redeemer bulletin:
He was a Polish priest, scholastic philosopher, physicist, & theologian. For most Catholics in this country, John Kanty is an obscure saint[;] probably few people know of Pope [St.] John Paull II's [22 October] deep & lifelong devotion to this professor saint.'Twas also the festival of Saint Frithbert of Hexham, Bishop (died 766, also spelt Frithubeorht): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Twas also the festival of Blessed Hartmann of Brixen, Bishop (circa 1090-1164): Blessed-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Twas also the festival of Saint John Stone, Religious & Martyr, O.S.A. (died circa 1539), martyred in the reign of the king Henry VIII, one of the Forty Martyrs of England & Wales: Martyr-link & Wikipedia-link; Wikipedia-link XL.
Scripture of That Day
Mass Readings—Advent Weekday
The Book of Malachi, chapter three, verses one thru four, twenty-three, & twenty-four;
Psalm Twenty-five, verses four & five(a/b), eight & nine, & ten & fourteen;
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter one, verses fifty-seven thru sixty-six.
Commentary: Reflection by Bishop Robert Barron (Word on Fire):
Friends, today’s Gospel reflects on the absolutely pivotal figure of John the Baptist. It’s fair to say that you cannot really understand Jesus without understanding John, which is precisely why all four Evangelists tell the story of the Baptist as a kind of overture to the story of Jesus. John sums up Israel, and without the Israelite background, the story of Jesus becomes opaque.Video reflection by Father Thomas Sparacino: United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
The story of John’s birth brings his parents, Zechariah and Elizabeth, into focus. Both are strongly priestly personages. Elizabeth is a descendant of the family of Aaron, the first priest of Israel, and Zechariah was a practicing Temple priest.
What’s important for our purposes is that John was of very priestly stock. So why, when we first hear of him in his adult life, is he out in the desert and not in the Temple? Well, there was a long prophetic tradition that criticized the Temple for its corruption. In John’s time, the Temple was mired in very messy, vile, and violent politics. So what is he doing in the desert? He is offering what the Temple ought to be offering but wasn’t, due to its corruption, namely, the forgiveness of sins.
Mass Readings—Optional Memorial of St. John of Kanty
The Letter of James, chapter two, verses fourteen thru seventeen;
Psalm One Hundred Twelve, verse one;
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter six, verses twenty-seven thru thirty-eight.
Thursday, December 28, 2017
Project BLACK MAMBA: The Long Road Back, Part VII
Advent
Friday, 22 December was the festival of Saint Flavian of Acquapendente, Martyr (died 362), martyred in the reign of the emperor Julian the Apostate: Martyr-link & Wikipedia-link (list).
Commentary: Father of the virgin & martyr St. Bibiana [2 December].
'Twas also the festival of Saint Abbán of New Ross, Abbot (died circa 520; also spelt Eibbán; A.K.A. of Magheranoidhe, Abbán moccu Corbmaic, Moabba), founder of many churches & monasteries, including that at which the Nurney Cross was erected: Saint-link & Wikipedia-link; Wikipedia-link Nurney Cross.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
'Twas also the festival of Saint Hunger of Utrecht, Bishop (died 866, A.K.A. Hungerus Frisus): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Twas also the festival of Blessed Jutta of Disibodenberg, Abbess, O.S.B. (circa 1084-1136, A.K.A. of Sponheim): Blessed-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Twas also the festival of Blessed Thomas Holland, Priest & Martyr, S.J. (circa 1600-1642, A.K.A. Thomas Sanderson, Thomas Hammond), martyred under the auspices of the Roundhead Parliament: Martyr-link & Wikipedia-link.
Scripture of That Day
Mass Readings—Advent Weekday
The First Book of Samuel, chapter one, verses twenty-four thru twenty-eight;
The First Book of Samuel, chapter two, verses one, four & five, six & seven, & eight(a/b/c/d/);
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter one, verses forty-six thru fifty-six.
Commentary: Reflection by Bishop Robert Barron (Word on Fire):
Friday, 22 December was the festival of Saint Flavian of Acquapendente, Martyr (died 362), martyred in the reign of the emperor Julian the Apostate: Martyr-link & Wikipedia-link (list).
Commentary: Father of the virgin & martyr St. Bibiana [2 December].
'Twas also the festival of Saint Abbán of New Ross, Abbot (died circa 520; also spelt Eibbán; A.K.A. of Magheranoidhe, Abbán moccu Corbmaic, Moabba), founder of many churches & monasteries, including that at which the Nurney Cross was erected: Saint-link & Wikipedia-link; Wikipedia-link Nurney Cross.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
'Twas also the festival of Saint Hunger of Utrecht, Bishop (died 866, A.K.A. Hungerus Frisus): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Twas also the festival of Blessed Jutta of Disibodenberg, Abbess, O.S.B. (circa 1084-1136, A.K.A. of Sponheim): Blessed-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Twas also the festival of Blessed Thomas Holland, Priest & Martyr, S.J. (circa 1600-1642, A.K.A. Thomas Sanderson, Thomas Hammond), martyred under the auspices of the Roundhead Parliament: Martyr-link & Wikipedia-link.
Scripture of That Day
Mass Readings—Advent Weekday
The First Book of Samuel, chapter one, verses twenty-four thru twenty-eight;
The First Book of Samuel, chapter two, verses one, four & five, six & seven, & eight(a/b/c/d/);
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter one, verses forty-six thru fifty-six.
Commentary: Reflection by Bishop Robert Barron (Word on Fire):
Friends, today’s Gospel explains the significance of Mary’s fiat. By far, the most important Advent figure is Mary of Nazareth, the Mother of God, for Mary sums up in her person the whole of the people Israel, the nation whose whole purpose was to prepare for the coming of the Lord. In the face of the evil, injustice, stupidity, and sin that were marring his beautiful creation, God resolved to choose a people and to form them according to his heart so that they could be the vehicle of his presence to the world. From this people would come, as a sort of flowering, the Messiah.Video reflection by Deacon Clinton Couch: United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
Thus Mary recapitulates the story of Israel, the story of redemption. We can, as it were, read the whole Old Testament in her. As the true Israel, she knows what to do, and she does it with enthusiasm. No dawdling, back-pedaling, straying, or complaining: she moves, she goes. And she goes upon the heights, which is exactly where God had always summoned Israel, so that it could be a light to the nations.
Project BLACK MAMBA: Octave of the Nativity
'Tis the Feast of the Holy Innocents, Martyrs: Martyrs-link ūnus, Martyrs-link duo, & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine. Quoth the Holy Redeemer bulletin:
Mass Readings—Feast of the Holy Innocents
The First Letter of John, chapter one, verse five thru chapter two, verse two;
Psalm One Hundred Twenty-four, verses two & three, four & five, & seven(c/d) & eight;
The Gospel according to Matthew, chapter two, verses thirteen thru eighteen.
Commentary: Reflection by Bishop Robert Barron (Word on Fire):
Bonus! Song o' the Holy Innocents
Relativity, "Coventry Carol" from Joy to the World! (The Last Solemn Man)
Commentary: As has been remarked before, the "Coventry Carol" is a stunning beautiful work about a staggeringly ugly event.
'Tis also the festival of Saint Anthony of Lérins, Religious (circa 468-520, A.K.A. the Hermit): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Tis also the festival of Blessed Hryhoriy Khomyshyn, Bishop & Martyr (1867-1947, A.K.A. Grzegorz Chomyszyn), martyred in the reign of the Communist dictator Joseph Stalin, one of the twenty-five Martyrs Killed under Communist Regimes in Eastern Europe: Martyr-link & Wikipedia-link; Martyrs-link XXV.
Saint Quote o' the Day
From "Heroes' Words" in 54-Day Basic Training in Holiness by Father Richard Heilman:
Commentary: Wayback Machine. Quoth the Holy Redeemer bulletin:
Herod ordered the execution of all young male children in the vicinity of Bethlehem, so as to avoid the loss of his throne to a newborn King of the Jews whose birth had been announced to him by the Magi.Scripture of This Day
Mass Readings—Feast of the Holy Innocents
The First Letter of John, chapter one, verse five thru chapter two, verse two;
Psalm One Hundred Twenty-four, verses two & three, four & five, & seven(c/d) & eight;
The Gospel according to Matthew, chapter two, verses thirteen thru eighteen.
Commentary: Reflection by Bishop Robert Barron (Word on Fire):
Friends, today’s Gospel describes Herod’s massacre of the boys of Bethlehem, his furious reaction to being deceived by the Magi. Matthew’s account of the visit of the Magi purposely juxtaposes King Herod and the mysterious Magi from the east. Herod was the consummate political survivor, a canny realist who had, through threats, murder, and corruption, found his way to the top of the political ladder.Video reflection by Father Don Miller, O.F.M.: United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
While Herod was fussing around, desperately trying to maintain himself in power, figures from a distant country were blithely indifferent to politics and games of domination. They were intensely surveying the night sky, looking for signs from God. Now, as they cross the border into Herod’s country, the Magi come onto Herod’s radar-screen. Who are they? Spies? And whom are they seeking? A newborn king? That is a threat! That is treason.
Under the pretense of piety, he calls the Magi to himself and inquires after the star’s first appearance, getting the time coordinates; and then he asks them to go to Bethlehem and find the exact locale. With this GPS system, he can find the king—and stamp him out.
Bonus! Song o' the Holy Innocents
Relativity, "Coventry Carol" from Joy to the World! (The Last Solemn Man)
Commentary: As has been remarked before, the "Coventry Carol" is a stunning beautiful work about a staggeringly ugly event.
'Tis also the festival of Saint Anthony of Lérins, Religious (circa 468-520, A.K.A. the Hermit): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Tis also the festival of Blessed Hryhoriy Khomyshyn, Bishop & Martyr (1867-1947, A.K.A. Grzegorz Chomyszyn), martyred in the reign of the Communist dictator Joseph Stalin, one of the twenty-five Martyrs Killed under Communist Regimes in Eastern Europe: Martyr-link & Wikipedia-link; Martyrs-link XXV.
Saint Quote o' the Day
From "Heroes' Words" in 54-Day Basic Training in Holiness by Father Richard Heilman:
"He who trusts himself is lost. He who trusts in God can do all things."
—St. Alphonsus Ligouri, Doctor of the Church (1696-1787, feast day: 1 August)
The Rebel Black Dot Song o' the 4th Day o' Christmas
The Philharmonic Chamber Orchestra, "What Child Is This?" from Toys for Tots: 25 All-Time Christmas Favorites (The Last Jolly Man)
Commentary: A lovely instrumental rendition.
Project BLACK MAMBA: The Long Road Back, Part VI
Advent
Thursday, 21 December was the Optional Memorial of Saint Peter Canisius, Priest & Doctor of the Church, S.J. (1521-1597), the "Second Apostle of Germany" & the "Hammer of Protestantism:" Doctor-link ūnus, Doctor-link duo, & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine. Quoth the Holy Redeemer bulletin:
'Twas also the festival of Saint Beornwald, Priest (floruit eighth century, of Bampton; also spelt Berenwald, Byrnwald): Saint-link ūnus, Saint-link duo, & Wikipedia-link.
'Twas also the festival of Blessed Anton Durcovici, Bishop & Martyr (1888-1951), martyred in the reign of the Communist dictator Gheorghe Gheorghiu-Dej: Martyr-link & Wikipedia-link.
Scripture of That Day
Mass Readings—Advent Weekday
The Song of Songs, chapter two, verses eight thru fourteen;
or, the Book of Zephaniah, chapter three, verses fourteen thru eighteen(a);
Psalm Thirty-three, verses two & three, eleven & twelve, & twenty & twenty-one;
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter one, verses thirty-nine thru forty-five.
Commentary: Reflection by Bishop Robert Barron (Word on Fire):
Mass Readings—Optional Memorial of St. Peter Canisius
The Second Letter to Timothy, chapter four, verses one thru five;
Psalm Forty, verses eight(a) & nine(a);
The Gospel according to Matthew, chapter five, verses thirteen thru nineteen.
Thursday, 21 December was the Optional Memorial of Saint Peter Canisius, Priest & Doctor of the Church, S.J. (1521-1597), the "Second Apostle of Germany" & the "Hammer of Protestantism:" Doctor-link ūnus, Doctor-link duo, & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine. Quoth the Holy Redeemer bulletin:
He is a renowned Dutch Jesuit Catholic priest. He became known for his strong support for the Catholic faith during the Protestant Reformation in Germany, Austria, & Bohemia. The restoration of the catholic Church in Germany after the Protestant Reformation is largely attributed to the work there of the Society of Jesus, which he led.'Twas also the festival of Saint Anastasius the Younger, Bishop & Martyr (died 609, A.K.A. Anastasius II of Antioch), martyred by Jewish rebels: Martyr-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Twas also the festival of Saint Beornwald, Priest (floruit eighth century, of Bampton; also spelt Berenwald, Byrnwald): Saint-link ūnus, Saint-link duo, & Wikipedia-link.
'Twas also the festival of Blessed Anton Durcovici, Bishop & Martyr (1888-1951), martyred in the reign of the Communist dictator Gheorghe Gheorghiu-Dej: Martyr-link & Wikipedia-link.
Scripture of That Day
Mass Readings—Advent Weekday
The Song of Songs, chapter two, verses eight thru fourteen;
or, the Book of Zephaniah, chapter three, verses fourteen thru eighteen(a);
Psalm Thirty-three, verses two & three, eleven & twelve, & twenty & twenty-one;
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter one, verses thirty-nine thru forty-five.
Commentary: Reflection by Bishop Robert Barron (Word on Fire):
Friends, today’s Gospel tells of Mary’s visit to Elizabeth. I’ve always been fascinated by Mary’s "haste" in this story of the Visitation. Upon hearing the message of Gabriel concerning her own pregnancy and that of her cousin, Mary "proceeded in haste into the hill country of Judah" to see Elizabeth.Video reflection by Father Don Miller, O.F.M.: United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
Why did she go with such speed and purpose? Because she had found her mission, her role in the theo-drama. We are dominated today by the ego-drama in all of its ramifications and implications. The ego-drama is the play that I’m writing, I’m producing, I’m directing, and I’m starring in. We see this absolutely everywhere in our culture. Freedom of choice reigns supreme: I become the person that I choose to be.
The theo-drama is the great story being told by God, the great play being directed by God. What makes life thrilling is to discover your role in it. This is precisely what has happened to Mary. She has found her role—indeed, a climactic role—in the theo-drama, and she wants to conspire with Elizabeth, who has also discovered her role in the same drama. Like Mary, we have to find our place in God’s story.
Mass Readings—Optional Memorial of St. Peter Canisius
The Second Letter to Timothy, chapter four, verses one thru five;
Psalm Forty, verses eight(a) & nine(a);
The Gospel according to Matthew, chapter five, verses thirteen thru nineteen.
Wednesday, December 27, 2017
Project BLACK MAMBA: The Long Road Back, Part V
Advent
Wednesday, 20 December was the festival of Saint Zephyrinus, Pope (died 217), fifteenth Bishop of Rome: Saint-link & Wikipedia-link; Wikipedia-link Pontiff.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
'Twas also the festival of Saint Dominic of Silos, Priest & Abbot, O.S.B. (circa 1000-1073): Saint-link ūnus, Saint-link duo, & Wikipedia-link.
'Twas also the festival of Saint Thomas of Dover, Religious & Martyr, O.S.B. (died circa 1295, A.K.A. Thomas Hales, Thomas de Halys), martyred by French pirates: Martyr-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Twas also the festival of Blessed Vincenzo Romano, Priest (1751-1831, Anglicized as Vincent Romano), the "Worker Priest:" Blessed-link & Wikipedia-link.
Scripture of That Day
Mass Readings—Advent Weekday
The Book of Isaiah, chapter seven, verses ten thru fourteen;
Psalm Twenty-four, verses one & two, three & four(a/b), & five & six;
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter one, verses twenty-six thru thirty-eight.
Commentary: Reflection by Bishop Robert Barron (Word on Fire):
Wednesday, 20 December was the festival of Saint Zephyrinus, Pope (died 217), fifteenth Bishop of Rome: Saint-link & Wikipedia-link; Wikipedia-link Pontiff.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
'Twas also the festival of Saint Dominic of Silos, Priest & Abbot, O.S.B. (circa 1000-1073): Saint-link ūnus, Saint-link duo, & Wikipedia-link.
'Twas also the festival of Saint Thomas of Dover, Religious & Martyr, O.S.B. (died circa 1295, A.K.A. Thomas Hales, Thomas de Halys), martyred by French pirates: Martyr-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Twas also the festival of Blessed Vincenzo Romano, Priest (1751-1831, Anglicized as Vincent Romano), the "Worker Priest:" Blessed-link & Wikipedia-link.
Scripture of That Day
Mass Readings—Advent Weekday
The Book of Isaiah, chapter seven, verses ten thru fourteen;
Psalm Twenty-four, verses one & two, three & four(a/b), & five & six;
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter one, verses twenty-six thru thirty-eight.
Commentary: Reflection by Bishop Robert Barron (Word on Fire):
Friends, in today’s Gospel of Luke, we find the Annunciation to Mary. Here is what Gabriel said to the Virgin: "Thou shalt conceive in thy womb and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name Jesus…The Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: And he shall reign over the house of Jacob forever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end."Video reflection by Jem Sullivan, Ph.D.: United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
No first-century Israelite would have missed the meaning here: this child shall be the fulfillment of the promise made to King David.
And this means that the child is, in fact, the king of the world, the one who would bring unity and peace to the nations. The conviction grew upon Israel that this mysterious descendent of David would be king, not just for a time and not just in an earthly sense, but would rule forever and for all nations. This definitive king of the Jews would be king of the world. He would be our king, as well.
Project BLACK MAMBA: Octave of the Nativity
'Tis the Feast of Saint John, Apostle & Evangelist (circa 6-101): Apostle-link ūnus, Apostle-link duo, Wikipedia-link Apostle, Wikipedia-link Evangelist, Wikipedia-link Revelator, & Wikipedia-link Beloved Disciple.
Commentary: Wayback Machine. Quoth the Holy Redeemer bulletin:
Mass Readings—Feast of St. John
The First Letter of John, chapter one, verses one thru fourteen;
Psalm Ninety-seven, verses one & two, five & six, & eleven & twelve;
The Gospel according to John, chapter twenty, verses one(a) & two thru eight.
Commentary: Reflection by Bishop Robert Barron (Word on Fire):
Bible Study—Wisdom Books
The Book of Proverbs, chapter twenty-seven (verses one thru twenty-seven);
The Book of Wisdom, chapter thirteen, verses one thru ten.
Commentary: V: Second Collection of the Proverbs of Solomon (Proverbs, 27:1-27) & Digression on False Worship: A. Nature Worship (Wisdom, 13:1-9) & B. Idolatry (13:10).
Proverb o' the Day (27:1)
'Tis also the festival of Saint Nikarete (died circa 405, of Constantinople): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Tis also the festival of Saints Theodorus of Apamea, Martyr (circa 775-842) & Theophanus of Nicaea, Bishop (circa 778-845; A.K.A. the Branded, the Hymnographer), the Grapti ("written upon"); martyred in the reign of emperor Theophilos, victims of Byzantine Iconoclasm: Martyr-link & Wikipedia-link Theodorus, Saint-link & Wikipedia-link Theophanes; Wikipedia-link Iconoclasm.
Saint Quote o' the Day
From "Heroes' Words" in 54-Day Basic Training in Holiness by Father Richard Heilman:
Commentary: Wayback Machine. Quoth the Holy Redeemer bulletin:
Generally listed as the youngest apostle, he was the son of Zebedee & Salome. His brother was [St.] James [25 July], who was another of the Twelve Apostles. Although Christian tradition holds that he outlived the remaining apostles & that he was the only one to die of natural causes.Scripture of the Day
Mass Readings—Feast of St. John
The First Letter of John, chapter one, verses one thru fourteen;
Psalm Ninety-seven, verses one & two, five & six, & eleven & twelve;
The Gospel according to John, chapter twenty, verses one(a) & two thru eight.
Commentary: Reflection by Bishop Robert Barron (Word on Fire):
Friends, today we celebrate the feast of St. John the Apostle and Evangelist. St. John is, of course, a spiritual master, but he is a literary master as well. We can see his skill throughout his Gospel, but perhaps especially in the stories dealing with the resurrected Jesus. We can find them in the 20th and 21st chapters of his Gospel. Our passage for today is from chapter 20, and it contains, in short compass, the whole of Christianity, if we have the eyes to see it.Video reflection by Jem Sullivan, Ph.D.: United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
"On the evening of that first day of the week…" Easter Sunday is the new creation day. On the first creation day, God had said, "Let there be light," and now, on Easter day, the one who said, "I am the light of the world" has returned from the dead. And this means that everything has changed, and everything has been recreated.
Bible Study—Wisdom Books
The Book of Proverbs, chapter twenty-seven (verses one thru twenty-seven);
The Book of Wisdom, chapter thirteen, verses one thru ten.
Commentary: V: Second Collection of the Proverbs of Solomon (Proverbs, 27:1-27) & Digression on False Worship: A. Nature Worship (Wisdom, 13:1-9) & B. Idolatry (13:10).
Proverb o' the Day (27:1)
Boast not of tomorrow,'Tis also the festival of Saint Maximus of Alexandria, Bishop (died 282): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
for you know not what any day may bring forth.
'Tis also the festival of Saint Nikarete (died circa 405, of Constantinople): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Tis also the festival of Saints Theodorus of Apamea, Martyr (circa 775-842) & Theophanus of Nicaea, Bishop (circa 778-845; A.K.A. the Branded, the Hymnographer), the Grapti ("written upon"); martyred in the reign of emperor Theophilos, victims of Byzantine Iconoclasm: Martyr-link & Wikipedia-link Theodorus, Saint-link & Wikipedia-link Theophanes; Wikipedia-link Iconoclasm.
Saint Quote o' the Day
From "Heroes' Words" in 54-Day Basic Training in Holiness by Father Richard Heilman:
"We have no alternative. There are only two possible ways of living on this earth: either we live a supernatural life, or we live an animal life. And you & I can only live the life of God, a supernatural life."
—St. Josemaría Escrivá (1902-1975, feast day: 26 June)
The Rebel Black Dot Song o' the 3rd Day o' Christmas
The Puppini Sisters, "O Holy Night" from Christmas with the Puppini Sisters (The Last Jolly Man)
Commentary: Both song itself & the human voice to raise in song are gifts from God.
"Fall on your knees!
O hear the angels' voices,
O night divine!
O night when Christ when was born,
O night divine!
O night,
O night divine!
"Truly He taught us to love one another,
His law is love and His gospel is peace,
Chains shall He break for the slave is our brother,
And in His Name all oppression shall cease…
"Christ is the Lord!
O praise His Name forever!
His power and glory evermore proclaim!
His power and glory evermore proclaim!"
Project BLACK MAMBA: The Long Road Back, Part IV
Advent
Tuesday, 19 December was the festival of Saint Anastasius I, Pope (died circa 401), thirty-ninth Bishop of Rome: Saint-link & Wikipedia-link; Wikipedia-link Pontiff.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
'Twas also the festival of Blessed Konrad of Lichtenau, Priest & Abbot, O. Praem. (died 1240): Blessed-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Twas also the festival of Blessed Urban V, Pope, O.S.B. (1310-1370, A.K.A. Guillaume de Grimoard), two hundredth Bishop of Rome, one of the good Avignon Popes: Blessed-link ūnus, Blessed-link duo, & Wikipedia-link; Wikipedia-link Pontiff & Wikipedia-link Avignon.
'Twas also the festival of Blessed Maria Marta of Jesus, Prioress & Martyr (1879-1942; A.K.A. Kazimiera Wołowska, Marta Wołowska), martyred in the reign of the Führer Adolf Hitler, one of the One Hundred Eight Blessed Polish Martyrs: Martyr-link & Wikipedia-link (list); Wikipedia-link CVIII.
'Twas also the festival of Blessed René Dubroux, Priest & Martyr, M.E.P. (1914-1959), martyred by the Panthet Lao Communists, one of the seventeen Martyrs of Laos: Martyr-link & Wikipedia-link (list); Wikipedia-link XVII.
Commentary: Bl. René & the other Martyrs of Laos were beatified in December 2016.
Scripture of That Day
Mass Readings—Advent Weekday
The Book of Judges, chapter thirteen, verses two thru seven, twenty-four, & twenty-five(a);
Psalm Seventy-one, verses three & four(a), five & six(a/b), & sixteen & seventeen;
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter one, verses five thru twenty-five.
Commentary: Reflection by Bishop Robert Barron (Word on Fire):
Tuesday, 19 December was the festival of Saint Anastasius I, Pope (died circa 401), thirty-ninth Bishop of Rome: Saint-link & Wikipedia-link; Wikipedia-link Pontiff.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
'Twas also the festival of Blessed Konrad of Lichtenau, Priest & Abbot, O. Praem. (died 1240): Blessed-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Twas also the festival of Blessed Urban V, Pope, O.S.B. (1310-1370, A.K.A. Guillaume de Grimoard), two hundredth Bishop of Rome, one of the good Avignon Popes: Blessed-link ūnus, Blessed-link duo, & Wikipedia-link; Wikipedia-link Pontiff & Wikipedia-link Avignon.
'Twas also the festival of Blessed Maria Marta of Jesus, Prioress & Martyr (1879-1942; A.K.A. Kazimiera Wołowska, Marta Wołowska), martyred in the reign of the Führer Adolf Hitler, one of the One Hundred Eight Blessed Polish Martyrs: Martyr-link & Wikipedia-link (list); Wikipedia-link CVIII.
'Twas also the festival of Blessed René Dubroux, Priest & Martyr, M.E.P. (1914-1959), martyred by the Panthet Lao Communists, one of the seventeen Martyrs of Laos: Martyr-link & Wikipedia-link (list); Wikipedia-link XVII.
Commentary: Bl. René & the other Martyrs of Laos were beatified in December 2016.
Scripture of That Day
Mass Readings—Advent Weekday
The Book of Judges, chapter thirteen, verses two thru seven, twenty-four, & twenty-five(a);
Psalm Seventy-one, verses three & four(a), five & six(a/b), & sixteen & seventeen;
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter one, verses five thru twenty-five.
Commentary: Reflection by Bishop Robert Barron (Word on Fire):
Friends, in today’s Gospel, Luke tells us about John the Baptist’s parents. We see with utter clarity that John is a priestly figure. Zechariah, his father, is a Temple priest and Elizabeth, his mother, is a descendant of Aaron, the very first priest.Video reflection by Father David Baker: United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
Now flash forward thirty years and see John emerging in the desert. The first question is, "Why is this son of a priest not working in the Temple?" And the second is, "Why are the people going out from Jerusalem to commune with him?" The answer to the first is that he is engaging in a prophetic critique of a Temple that has gone bad. And the answer to the second is that he is performing the acts of a purified Temple priest out in the desert. His baptism was a ritual cleansing and a spur to repent, precisely what a pious Jew would have sought in the Temple.
And the picture becomes complete when Jesus arrives to be baptized and John says, "Behold, the Lamb of God." This is explicitly Temple talk. He is saying that the one who is to be sacrificed has arrived. He is the fulfillment of priesthood, Temple, and sacrifice. The priestly figure has done his work, and now he fades away.
Tuesday, December 26, 2017
Project BLACK MAMBA: The Long Road Back, Part III
Advent
Monday, 18 December was the festival of Saint Auxentius of Mopsuetia, Bishop (died circa 321): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
'Twas also the festival of Saint Flannán, Bishop & Abbot (floruit seventh century, of Killaloe): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Twas also the festival of Saint Samthann, Abbess (died 739, of Clonbroney): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Twas also the festival of Saint Winebald, Abbot, O.S.B. (circa 701-768, of Heidenheim; also spelt with numerous variations): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Son of St. Richard the Pilgrim (7 February), brother of Ss. Willibald (7 June) & Walpurga (25 February), & nephew of St. Boniface (5 June).
Scripture of That Day
Mass Readings—Advent Weekday
The Book of Jeremiah, chapter twenty-three, verses five thru eight;
Psalm Seventy-two, verses one & two, twelve & thirteen, & eighteen & nineteen;
The Gospel according to Matthew, chapter one, verses eighteen thru twenty-five.
Commentary: Reflection by Bishop Robert Barron (Word on Fire):
Monday, 18 December was the festival of Saint Auxentius of Mopsuetia, Bishop (died circa 321): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
'Twas also the festival of Saint Flannán, Bishop & Abbot (floruit seventh century, of Killaloe): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Twas also the festival of Saint Samthann, Abbess (died 739, of Clonbroney): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Twas also the festival of Saint Winebald, Abbot, O.S.B. (circa 701-768, of Heidenheim; also spelt with numerous variations): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Son of St. Richard the Pilgrim (7 February), brother of Ss. Willibald (7 June) & Walpurga (25 February), & nephew of St. Boniface (5 June).
Scripture of That Day
Mass Readings—Advent Weekday
The Book of Jeremiah, chapter twenty-three, verses five thru eight;
Psalm Seventy-two, verses one & two, twelve & thirteen, & eighteen & nineteen;
The Gospel according to Matthew, chapter one, verses eighteen thru twenty-five.
Commentary: Reflection by Bishop Robert Barron (Word on Fire):
Friends, today’s Gospel centers on the intriguing figure of Joseph. Joseph is one of the most beloved of the saints, featured in countless works of art and prominent in the devotional lives of many.Video reflection by Msgr. James Vlaun (Telecare T.V.): United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
We know almost nothing about him, yet some very powerful spiritual themes emerge in the accounts of Joseph. He had become betrothed to Mary and this union had been blessed by God. And then he finds that his betrothed is pregnant.
This must have been an emotional maelstrom for him. And, at a deeper level, it is a spiritual crisis. What does God want him to do? Then the angel appears to him in a dream and tells him, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home." He realizes at that moment that these puzzling events are part of a much greater plan of God’s. What appears to be a disaster from his perspective is meaningful from God’s perspective.
Joseph was willing to cooperate with the divine plan, though he in no way knew its contours or deepest purpose. Like Mary at the Annunciation, he trusted and let himself be led.
Project BLACK MAMBA: Octave of the Nativity, Late
'Tis the Feast of Saint Stephen, the First Martyr & Deacon (died circa 36): Martyr-link ūnus, Martyr-link duo, & Wikipedia-link; Wikipedia-link Saint Stephen's Day.
Commentary: Wayback Machine. Quoth the Holy Redeemer bulletin:
Mass Readings—Feast of St. Stephen
The Acts of the Apostles, chapter six, verses eight, nine, & ten & chapter seven, verses fifty-four thru fifty-nine;
Psalm Thirty-one, verses three(c/d) & four, six & eight(a/b), & sixteen(b/c) & seventeen;
The Gospel according to Matthew, chapter ten, verses seventeen thru twenty-two.
Commentary: Reflection by Bishop Robert Barron (Word on Fire):
A Humble Contribution to the New Evangelization
The Popish Plot—Taco Tuesday: "The Feast of St. Stephen"
'Tis also the festival of Saint Dionysius, Pope (died 268), twenty-fifth Bishop of Rome: Saint-link & Wikipedia-link; Wikipedia-link Pontiff.
'Tis also the festival of Saint Zosimus, Pope (died 418), forty-first Bishop of Rome: Saint-link & Wikipedia-link; Wikipedia-link Pontiff.
Saint Quote o' the Day
From "Heroes' Words" in 54-Day Basic Training in Holiness by Father Richard Heilman:
Commentary: Wayback Machine. Quoth the Holy Redeemer bulletin:
Saint Stephen was one of the first ordained deacons of the Church. He was also the first Christian martyr. He is the patron saint of altar servers, bricklayers, casket makers, & deacons.Scripture of This Day
Mass Readings—Feast of St. Stephen
The Acts of the Apostles, chapter six, verses eight, nine, & ten & chapter seven, verses fifty-four thru fifty-nine;
Psalm Thirty-one, verses three(c/d) & four, six & eight(a/b), & sixteen(b/c) & seventeen;
The Gospel according to Matthew, chapter ten, verses seventeen thru twenty-two.
Commentary: Reflection by Bishop Robert Barron (Word on Fire):
Friends, today we celebrate the martyrdom of St. Stephen. The Gospel tells us to expect persecution. Martyrs like Stephen are witnesses who have given their lives for the faith, participating in the bloody death of Jesus himself. They are part of the great chorus that gives praise to Christ in heaven. The Lamb has become their shepherd, leading them to springs of life-giving water.Video reflection by Msgr. Robert E. Zapfel, S.T.D.: United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
"And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes." This is an eschatological hope, one held out for us in God’s definitive future. But a terrible price was paid, and a terrible war was waged. Their robes are washed clean, but in the blood of the Lamb. Please notice the presence of martyrdom up and down the ages, to the present day. The twentieth was the Christian century with the most martyrs ever, in fact more than all the other centuries combined. The most persecuted religion on planet earth today is Christianity. St. Stephen, pray for us!
A Humble Contribution to the New Evangelization
The Popish Plot—Taco Tuesday: "The Feast of St. Stephen"
'Tis also the festival of Saint Dionysius, Pope (died 268), twenty-fifth Bishop of Rome: Saint-link & Wikipedia-link; Wikipedia-link Pontiff.
'Tis also the festival of Saint Zosimus, Pope (died 418), forty-first Bishop of Rome: Saint-link & Wikipedia-link; Wikipedia-link Pontiff.
Saint Quote o' the Day
From "Heroes' Words" in 54-Day Basic Training in Holiness by Father Richard Heilman:
"Few souls understand what God would accomplish in them if they were to abandon themselves unreservedly to Him & if they were to allow His grace to mold them accordingly."
—St. Ignatius of Loyola (31 July)
The Rebel Black Dot Song o' the 2nd Day o' Christmas
Tara Philip, Christine Mason, Daniel Schmit, & Co., "What Child Is This?" from Christmas Hope (The Last Jolly Man)
Commentary:
"This! This! is Christ the Lord,
Whom shepherds guard and angels sing!
Haste! Haste! to bring Him laud,
The Babe, the son of Mary…"
Project BLACK MAMBA: The Long Road Back, Part II
Advent
Saturday, 16 December was the festival of Saint Ado of Vienne, Bishop, O.S.B. (died circa 875): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
'Twas also the festival of Saint Nicholas Chrysoberges, Bishop (died 996, A.K.A. Nicholas II of Constantinople): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Twas also the festival of Saint Adelaide of Italy (931-999, A.K.A. of Burgundy), Holy Roman Empress: Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Twas also the festival of Blessed Honorat of Biała, Priest, O.F.M. Cap. (1829-1916; also spelt Honoratus, A.K.A. Florentyn Wacław Koźmiński): Blessed-link & Wikipedia-link.
Scripture of That Day
Mass Readings—Advent Weekday
The Book of Sirach, chapter forty-eight, verses one thru four, nine, ten, & eleven;
Psalm Eighty, verses two(a/c) & three(b), fifteen & sixteen, & eighteen & nineteen;
The Gospel according to Matthew, chapter seventeen, verses nine(a) & ten thru thirteen.
Commentary: Reflection by Bishop Robert Barron (Word on Fire):
Saturday, 16 December was the festival of Saint Ado of Vienne, Bishop, O.S.B. (died circa 875): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
'Twas also the festival of Saint Nicholas Chrysoberges, Bishop (died 996, A.K.A. Nicholas II of Constantinople): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Twas also the festival of Saint Adelaide of Italy (931-999, A.K.A. of Burgundy), Holy Roman Empress: Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Twas also the festival of Blessed Honorat of Biała, Priest, O.F.M. Cap. (1829-1916; also spelt Honoratus, A.K.A. Florentyn Wacław Koźmiński): Blessed-link & Wikipedia-link.
Scripture of That Day
Mass Readings—Advent Weekday
The Book of Sirach, chapter forty-eight, verses one thru four, nine, ten, & eleven;
Psalm Eighty, verses two(a/c) & three(b), fifteen & sixteen, & eighteen & nineteen;
The Gospel according to Matthew, chapter seventeen, verses nine(a) & ten thru thirteen.
Commentary: Reflection by Bishop Robert Barron (Word on Fire):
Friends, today’s Gospel passage identifies the appearance of John the Baptist with the expected return of the prophet Elijah. John, the herald of Christ, appears in the desert. Here he stands for all of us in the desert of sin, the lifeless place. It is as though John purposely went there to remind us of our need for grace.Video reflection by Greta Stokes Tucker: United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
What is he proclaiming? A baptism of repentance. This is the great message. Turn your life over to a higher power. People are coming to him from all sides, because in our heart of hearts we all resonate with this message.
So often in the Old Testament the prophets are asked to act out some quality of the people, perhaps something they were unable or unwilling to see. Well, this tradition continues here: John acts out for the people their helplessness and neediness before the Lord. But then, like Isaiah, he refuses to leave it at that. He announces that one is coming, one who will baptize in the Holy Spirit.
Monday, December 25, 2017
Project BLACK MAMBA: The Long Road Back, Part I
Advent
Friday, 15 December was the festival of Saint Offa, Religious (died circa 709, of Essex), King of Essex: Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
'Twas also the festival of Saint Margaret of Fontana, Virgin, T.O.S.D. (1440-1513): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Twas also the festival of Blessed Maria Vittoria De Fornari Strata, Religious, O.SS.A. (1562-1617), foundress of the Blue Nuns, formally the Order of the Most Holy Annunciation: Blessed-link & Wikipedia-link; Wikipedia-link O.SS.A.
'Twas also the festival of Saint Maria Crocifissa di Rosa, Religious, A.D.C. (1813-1855, A.K.A. Paolina di Rosa), foundress of the Handmaids of Charity: Saint-link & Wikipedia-link; Wikipedia-link A.D.C.
'Twas also the festival of Blessed Mary Frances Schervier, Religious, S.P.S.F. (1819-1876, A.K.A. Franziska Schervier), foundress of the Poor Sisters of Saint Francis & the Franciscan Sisters of the Poor: Blessed-link ūna, Blessed-link duae, & Wikipedia-link; Wikipedia-link S.P.S.F. & Wikipedia-link S.F.P.
Scripture of That Day
Mass Readings—Advent Weekday
The Book of Isaiah, chapter forty-eight, verses seventeen, eighteen, & nineteen;
Psalm One, verses one & two, three, four, & six;
The Gospel according to Matthew, chapter eleven, verses sixteen thru nineteen.
Commentary: Reflection by Bishop Robert Barron (Word on Fire):
Friday, 15 December was the festival of Saint Offa, Religious (died circa 709, of Essex), King of Essex: Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
'Twas also the festival of Saint Margaret of Fontana, Virgin, T.O.S.D. (1440-1513): Saint-link & Wikipedia-link.
'Twas also the festival of Blessed Maria Vittoria De Fornari Strata, Religious, O.SS.A. (1562-1617), foundress of the Blue Nuns, formally the Order of the Most Holy Annunciation: Blessed-link & Wikipedia-link; Wikipedia-link O.SS.A.
'Twas also the festival of Saint Maria Crocifissa di Rosa, Religious, A.D.C. (1813-1855, A.K.A. Paolina di Rosa), foundress of the Handmaids of Charity: Saint-link & Wikipedia-link; Wikipedia-link A.D.C.
'Twas also the festival of Blessed Mary Frances Schervier, Religious, S.P.S.F. (1819-1876, A.K.A. Franziska Schervier), foundress of the Poor Sisters of Saint Francis & the Franciscan Sisters of the Poor: Blessed-link ūna, Blessed-link duae, & Wikipedia-link; Wikipedia-link S.P.S.F. & Wikipedia-link S.F.P.
Scripture of That Day
Mass Readings—Advent Weekday
The Book of Isaiah, chapter forty-eight, verses seventeen, eighteen, & nineteen;
Psalm One, verses one & two, three, four, & six;
The Gospel according to Matthew, chapter eleven, verses sixteen thru nineteen.
Commentary: Reflection by Bishop Robert Barron (Word on Fire):
Friends, in today’s Gospel the Pharisees compare the eating habits of John the Baptist, who fasted, and Jesus, who dined with sinners. In the carefully stratified society of Jesus’ time, a righteous person would never associate with the unrighteous, for fear of becoming unclean.Video reflection by D. J. Bernal: United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
But here is Jesus, scandalizing everyone because he does indeed break down these barriers. How would you feel if you saw me socializing with prostitutes and drug-dealers, eating and drinking with terrorists? Would it shock you, dismay you, disappoint you? But this is what Jesus did, precisely because he was the Incarnation of the God who aggressively seeks out the lost.
God looks for us, comes running after us, never lets go, never relents, never gives up. The more we run, the more he runs after; the more we hide, the more he looks; the more we resist, the more he persists. God likes sinners and associates with them.
The Rebel Black Dot Song o' Christmas Day
Duvall, "Joy to the World" from O Holy Night (The Last Jolly Man)
Commentary: An instrumental rendition replete with shredding guitar, Duvall's "Joy to the World" stirs my already jubilant soul! Joy to the world! The Lord is come!
Project BLACK MAMBA: The Nativity of the Lord
'Tis the Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord (Christmas): Nativity-link ūnus, Nativity-link duo, Wikipedia-link Nativity, & Wikipedia-link Christmas.
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
Scripture of This Day
Mass Readings—Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord: Night
The Book of Isaiah, chapter nine, verses one thru six;
Psalm Ninety-six, verses one & two, two & three, eleven & twelve, & thirteen;
The Letter to Titus, chapter two, verses eleven thru fourteen;
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter two, verses one thru fourteen.
Mass Readings—Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord: Dawn
The Book of Isaiah, chapter sixty-two, verses eleven & twelve;
Psalm Ninety-seven, verses one, six, & eleven & twelve;
The Letter to Titus, chapter three, verses four thru seven;
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter two, verses fifteen thru twenty.
Mass Readings—Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord: Day
The Book of Isaiah, chapter fifty-two, verses seven thru ten;
Psalm Ninety-eight, verses one, two & three, three & four, & five & six;
The Letter to the Hebrews, chapter one, verses one thru six;
The Gospel according to John, chapter one, verses one thru eighteen
(or, the Gospel according to John, chapter one, verses one thru five & nine thru fourteen).
Commentary: Reflection by Bishop Robert Barron (Word on Fire):
Saint Quote o' the Day
The Popish Plot—Bonus Episode: "Jokes with Santa"
Commentary: Wayback Machine.
Scripture of This Day
Mass Readings—Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord: Night
The Book of Isaiah, chapter nine, verses one thru six;
Psalm Ninety-six, verses one & two, two & three, eleven & twelve, & thirteen;
The Letter to Titus, chapter two, verses eleven thru fourteen;
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter two, verses one thru fourteen.
Mass Readings—Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord: Dawn
The Book of Isaiah, chapter sixty-two, verses eleven & twelve;
Psalm Ninety-seven, verses one, six, & eleven & twelve;
The Letter to Titus, chapter three, verses four thru seven;
The Gospel according to Luke, chapter two, verses fifteen thru twenty.
Mass Readings—Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord: Day
The Book of Isaiah, chapter fifty-two, verses seven thru ten;
Psalm Ninety-eight, verses one, two & three, three & four, & five & six;
The Letter to the Hebrews, chapter one, verses one thru six;
The Gospel according to John, chapter one, verses one thru eighteen
(or, the Gospel according to John, chapter one, verses one thru five & nine thru fourteen).
Commentary: Reflection by Bishop Robert Barron (Word on Fire):
Friends, our Christmas day Gospel focuses on the Word made flesh. Ancient Jewish thought found all sorts of sophisticated ways to say that God was active in the world without ceasing to be transcendent over it. Above all, they spoke of God’s holy Word, a Word by which all things were made.Video reflection by Monsignor James Vlaun (Telecare T.V.): U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.
Now listen to the Prologue to John’s Gospel: "In the beginning was the Word…" He’s writing a new Genesis—and he is drawing our attention to this word of God, this powerful, musical breath of God that makes and governs the universe and speaks through the prophets, this Word that is the same as God.
And this Word became flesh. The Greek term means "pitched his tent among us," the very phrase used of God’s Wisdom inhabiting the Temple in Jerusalem. "And we saw his glory…and he was full of grace and truth." Glory, for he is beautiful to look on; truth, for he is the new Law. All the ways that the Old Testament spoke of God’s involvement with the world come together in this description of Jesus Christ. He is the powerful Word that will not return without accomplishing his purpose.
Saint Quote o' the Day
"The secret of everything is to let oneself be carried by God & so to carry Him to others."A Humble Contribution to the New Evangelization
—Pope St. John XXIII (11 October)
The Popish Plot—Bonus Episode: "Jokes with Santa"
Sunday, December 24, 2017
The Explorers' Club, № DXC
Christmas 1223 at Greccio, Italy: The mendicant preacher Francesco of Assisi, later canonized by the Catholic Church, invented the Nativity scene (A.K.A. a manger scene or a crèche), based on his then-recent pilgrimage to the Holy Land, where he had seen the traditional birthplace of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem; that first Nativity scene was a kind of theatrical play, featuring live actors & animals.
Merry Christmas! Joy to the world!
Merry Christmas! Joy to the world!
The Queue
To my great surprise & delight, I was able to keep up with Beautiful Hope, even amidst the hectic (early) holidays with kin: a wedding in *shudder* Ohio, then hosting out-of-state company in sacred Michigan, then back to *shudder* Ohio to be out-of-state company ourselves. This was without a doubt Dynamic Catholic's best "Best Advent Ever" yet.
Messy & Foolish is a wee little thing, not quite seventy pages long. It strike me as absurd that insofar as the accounting of the queue, in the "Recently" section, finishing the minute Messy & Foolish will look no different than when I eventually finish the massive Vanished Kingdoms. Absurd, yet I have no solution to offer. Then again, does an absurdity, simply by being absurd, require a "solution"? Should it not be allowed to persist as an absurdity? After all, we here at The Secret Base have often been told we live at the intersection of the absurd & the sublime.
I am familiar with Fr. Riccardo, pastor of Our Lady of Good Counsel in Plymouth (Archdiocese of Detroit, not my own Diocese of Lansing), from his Ave Maria Radio program Christ Is the Answer. I began Heaven Starts Now last Wednesday (20 December), after an early exchange of Christmas presents with kin in Ohio. In reading the book, I hear Fr. Riccardo's voice from Christ Is the Answer.
Recently
Scott & Kimberly Hahn, Rome Sweet Home: Our Journey to Catholicism
Matthew Kelly & Co., Beautiful Hope: Finding Hope Every Day in a Broken World
Matthew Warner, Messy & Foolish: How to Make a Mess, Be a Fool, and Evangelize the World
Currently
Father John Riccardo, Heaven Starts Now: Becoming a Saint Day by Day
Presently
Norman Davies, Vanished Kingdoms: The Rise and Fall of States and Nations ***paused***
Matthew Kelly, Perfectly Yourself: Discovering God's Dream for You
Sherry A. Weddell, Forming Intentional Disciples: The Path to Knowing and Following Jesus
William E. Simon Jr., Great Catholic Parishes: How Four Essential Practices Make Them Thrive
Bishop Robert Barron, Seeds of the Word: Finding God in the Culture
Mike Aquilina, Understanding the Mass: 100 Questions, 100 Answers
Xavier Rynne, Vatican Council II
John W. O'Malley, What Happened at Vatican II
Pope Benedict XVI, Deus Caritas Est (God Is Love)
Pope Benedict XVI, Sacramentum Caritatis (The Sacrament of Charity)
Richard Price, Clockers
Sir Richard Francis Burton, translator, "Sinbad the Sailor" from The Arabian Nights
Sir Ernest Shackleton, South: A Memoir of the Endurance Voyage
William F. Buckley Jr., The Unmaking of a Mayor
Margaret MacMillan, Paris 1919: Six Months That Changed the World
John le Carré, A Legacy of Spies
Messy & Foolish is a wee little thing, not quite seventy pages long. It strike me as absurd that insofar as the accounting of the queue, in the "Recently" section, finishing the minute Messy & Foolish will look no different than when I eventually finish the massive Vanished Kingdoms. Absurd, yet I have no solution to offer. Then again, does an absurdity, simply by being absurd, require a "solution"? Should it not be allowed to persist as an absurdity? After all, we here at The Secret Base have often been told we live at the intersection of the absurd & the sublime.
I am familiar with Fr. Riccardo, pastor of Our Lady of Good Counsel in Plymouth (Archdiocese of Detroit, not my own Diocese of Lansing), from his Ave Maria Radio program Christ Is the Answer. I began Heaven Starts Now last Wednesday (20 December), after an early exchange of Christmas presents with kin in Ohio. In reading the book, I hear Fr. Riccardo's voice from Christ Is the Answer.
Recently
Scott & Kimberly Hahn, Rome Sweet Home: Our Journey to Catholicism
Matthew Kelly & Co., Beautiful Hope: Finding Hope Every Day in a Broken World
Matthew Warner, Messy & Foolish: How to Make a Mess, Be a Fool, and Evangelize the World
Currently
Father John Riccardo, Heaven Starts Now: Becoming a Saint Day by Day
Presently
Norman Davies, Vanished Kingdoms: The Rise and Fall of States and Nations ***paused***
Matthew Kelly, Perfectly Yourself: Discovering God's Dream for You
Sherry A. Weddell, Forming Intentional Disciples: The Path to Knowing and Following Jesus
William E. Simon Jr., Great Catholic Parishes: How Four Essential Practices Make Them Thrive
Bishop Robert Barron, Seeds of the Word: Finding God in the Culture
Mike Aquilina, Understanding the Mass: 100 Questions, 100 Answers
Xavier Rynne, Vatican Council II
John W. O'Malley, What Happened at Vatican II
Pope Benedict XVI, Deus Caritas Est (God Is Love)
Pope Benedict XVI, Sacramentum Caritatis (The Sacrament of Charity)
Richard Price, Clockers
Sir Richard Francis Burton, translator, "Sinbad the Sailor" from The Arabian Nights
Sir Ernest Shackleton, South: A Memoir of the Endurance Voyage
William F. Buckley Jr., The Unmaking of a Mayor
Margaret MacMillan, Paris 1919: Six Months That Changed the World
John le Carré, A Legacy of Spies
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