tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38171145503992472132024-03-13T21:09:47.370+01:00prayliuma common blog from a common middle age man who's journey...well...Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04407841703549363533noreply@blogger.comBlogger236125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817114550399247213.post-43945190254732335852015-02-09T16:58:00.000+01:002015-04-09T16:59:45.218+02:00Vanilla This entry is really an elongated response to my friend, <a href="http://myjourneythoughts.blogspot.com/2015/02/what-do-we-need.html" target="_blank">Fr. Len Stoviak's reflection found posted on his blog; Journey Thoughts.</a><br />
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I follow his thoughts and musings simply because I know his story and it's good.</div>
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He's waiting for a new bishop to be assigned, and if I am keeping track it will be his fifth.</div>
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But that isn't his only concern....</div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: medium;"><span style="color: red;">It grieves me terribly to see our churches less that full, and most importantly to see major celebrations at the Cathedral and elsewhere poorly attended. It speaks of a lack of pride or of apathy or of schedules that are too busy, but it does not speak of vibrant faith and joy. </span></span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: medium;">Bishop Coyne in his homily of installation the other day in Burlington, VT spoke of someone whose conversation he overheard that chose a "mega church" over the Catholic Church. The person said of the Catholic community that "it was like they mourn their religion". He said that he could relate to that statement, and so can I. He went on to say that "If we are going to call people to our churches and they do happen to come in, what will they find? People who have the joy of the "good news" in their hearts, people who are welcoming and encouraging, who celebrate the Church's liturgy with care and commitment <strong><u>or</u></strong> a people who <strong>`mourn their religion</strong>`."</span><br style="color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;" /><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: medium;"></span><br style="color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;" /><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: medium;"> We have been blessed with four very different bishops, each bringing their own personalities and talents to the job - one was a big city priest and bishop called to the "country" ... one was an inner city pastor who came as a father figure ... one came as an administrator and was often misunderstood ... and one came with a diplomatic background. I realize this is over simplistic, but that is my observation.</span></i></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;">It doesn't sound too hopeful. First, the new bishop's comments--yep </span><span style="color: red; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;">'mourning'</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"> the religion. It isn't anything new. During my time as an episcopal rector, one vivid memory I have (unfortunately) was when I preached a sermon asking the few church goers, "What would someone see if they were to walk over our landscaped grounds and peek inside our beautiful windows?" I went on to share my observations....which probably contributed to my getting fired a few months later. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"> </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;">I'm not sure if I or anyone knows what is being mourned or if it even existed. </span><span style="color: red; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;">Perhaps what is being mourned <b>is an idea</b>-</span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;">-similar to falling in love with the idea of being in love--it simply doesn't exist.</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;">So a church in mourning--perhaps Avery Dulles could use it as a new model of ecclesiology.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;">Unfortunately we have many bishops who are bishops simply because, as priests, they made it to a certain age without a personal scandal and no hair raising episodes in their ministerial career (and I use career on purpose to show how far off we are in describing ministry). Vanilla is the flavor. Really can't go wrong with it and it does nothing to inspire. </span><span style="color: red; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;">And, while we are at it--a good operational definition for 'inspire' would be--a creative shepherding of the soul to God.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;">Vanilla--Nothing.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;">I'm so glad Fr. Len didn't use the word 'leader' when it came to bishop. Back in the 90's leadership and its study was the cash-cow of universities and even clergy gatherings. It was a waste of time.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;">You can teach parish administrative leadership in one hour with a good computer program.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;">You can't teach inspiration.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;">I</span><span style="color: red; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;">nspiration fills the pews, not some leadership approach.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;">Solid liturgy, across the board, not focusing on the life of the priest--fills the pews. Don't have a dramatic performance of a liturgy that can easily be confused with some kind of re-enactment in order to keep the people 'entertained.'</span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;">Inspiration. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;">The 'leaders' have lost their sense of inspiration, and we continue to validate and promote the process.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;">Sorry this sounds a little tough--but really what is it going to take?</span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;">Another celebrity priest? Another media brainstorm and blitz? Another re-envisioning, re-inventing the church? I recall one such diocesan meeting where we were all going to discuss a book--because that was the new movement in leadership--and the speaker never showed! As a priest, (and I share this from a glass house where I failed miserably many times in the life...but that said) I probably should have been visiting the hospital or praying or offering some sort of personal or communal sacrifice--anything that would have been more 'priestly' than sitting in a convention hall spending time being taking in by nothing more than a book selling gimmick.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;">So what is it going to take? Another book...series...or movement? Another academic process, degree, or relearning? Another sports program that is masked as 'fellowship'? Another mis-allocation of funds in the name of outreach and ministry and ecumenism? </span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;">And now for the 'not-so-good-news'...</span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;">I don't think anything will change when it comes to the forms of ecclesial leadership that Fr. Len enumerated. Actually they've had quite the spectrum. And guess what?...it doesn't sound promising--little to no growth, more financial challenges, less clergy, probably more discontent among the laity, little to no collaborative ministry because it probably is the same people doing the same things just in a different way or at a different church. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;">Sounds as if the diocese, barring any inspiration, is on the path to geographic division and 're-allocation'--i.e. spilt up and given to neighboring dioceses. After all isn't that what the current corporate movement and model of church dictates? 1. merge schools, 2 merge parishes, 3 merge diocese. It is a linear progression that is dictated by many factors. Sometimes those socio-economic factors are contained as in some rural communities. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;">However, when a cathedral is described as being empty--well that is indicative of something much greater and this is not the moment to speculate. Because speculation really does nothing. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;">Suffice it to say that </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif;">Fr. Len describes and empty church--how sad...how vanilla.</span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;">I have a little bit of a story when it comes to my public faith life--but I have to be honest, I have never been more uninspired than now when it comes to the lived experience of Church. </span><span style="color: red; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;">I have quietly and quickly become that middle age man who sits in the pew and closes his eyes. </span></b></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><b>I sit at the church blind and waiting to see the Messiah- nothing more, nothing less.</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;">Fr. Len labels his blog with 'What Do We Need?' </span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;">I would venture to say... True </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif;">Inspiration.</span></b></div>
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Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04407841703549363533noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817114550399247213.post-66785101027223725292014-12-28T19:57:00.003+01:002014-12-28T19:57:34.698+01:00Holy FamilyToday is the Feast of the Holy Family.<br />
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<b>Family is one of the messiest things I have ever encountered...EVER.</b><br />
That is why I shutter when I hear someone describe their church as "family" Because, often times what they mean is 180 degrees opposite of what the reality is. They simply mean Norman Rockwell, perfect gathering photo op....<br />
That's not what I am talking about...<br />
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Family is the only reality I have of interaction with others. It is the very foundation of where I spring forth to enter into every and any relationship. Even my relationship with God. Family is so ingrained in the fabric of our soul that even when one is born without a family then something/or some institution/ or someother 'become' his family.<br />
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Family is, well...Family.<br />
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And it is messy.<br />
Every broken piece of humanity is found in family.<br />
Every vice.<br />
Every virtue.<br />
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And we have to keep on living in it...even if we choose not to---there really is no choice because even when a person chooses to absent and vacate---well it is still FROM the FAMILY. They are defined by their absence from a relationship with their 'family'.<br />
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And back to the Holy Family. Think about it for a moment....I'm choosing to forego the family tree of murders and adulterers (of which David got both titles in one fell swoop), liars, cheats, and swindlers....let's just talk about Mary, Joseph, and Jesus--the Holy Family.<br />
Mary was young, unwed but already chosen by God as an Immaculate Vessel.<br />
Joseph betrothed (and we have no real idea how all that went down), had dreams and now his bride to be was pregnant with God's Son.<br />
Still they married.<br />
And now on the road---pregnant and giving birth in a cave among animals and feed and dare I say fecal matter? <span style="color: red;">The very birth is poverty exponentially exploded.</span><br />
Young couple--no bridal or baby showers.<br />
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Soon after--the Presentation, the prophecies of Simeon and Anna with swords piercing Mary's heart and Joseph... Now on the run because of Herod's pride and ego and murderous ways...They had a murder squad stalking them! (Did I mention they didn't have a bridal or baby shower?)<br />
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So they flee....young mom, faithful celibate husband, and infant God.<br />
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Really? We get bent out of shape over what in our family? Yes there are awful things, members cease talking, anger, hurt, pain, threats, misunderstandings, seem to at times outweigh any good memories or the hope of a future many times for many families. Members move away and forget and maybe they need to forget...that isn't the point...<br />
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<b>The point is about Jesus and Mary and Joseph.</b><br />
<b>Who the shepherds found together</b><br />
<b>Who the kings found together</b><br />
<b>Who were at Joseph's death together</b><br />
<b>Who were at the Cross of Jesus together</b><br />
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<b><span style="color: red;">We never here of the Holy Family having a birthday party, or a night on the town, or a family vacation, or the giggles and smiles and happy times that society tries to sell us---</span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: red;">No, we hear always of the Holy Family together cooperating with God's Will They were found together in the midst of difficult and trying times.</span></b><br />
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So what makes a family holy?<br />
<br />Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04407841703549363533noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817114550399247213.post-26134252775730855582014-12-28T19:15:00.000+01:002014-12-28T19:15:10.920+01:00Can We Still Be Inspired?recent essay of mine published on www.catholic365.com<br />
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I<a href="http://www.catholic365.com/article/547/can-we-still-live-as-inspired-people.html" target="_blank">nspiration</a>Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04407841703549363533noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817114550399247213.post-35192781303982603792014-12-19T19:16:00.002+01:002014-12-19T19:53:37.048+01:00Old Music New InspirationThe other day I was making my way through the bookstore at the Cleveland Institute of Music- just killing some time. Wow!<br />
If you've never had the chance and you are a music score junky--I highly recommend it. Who would have thought that so much history, culture, creativity, and paper could be found in a 15 by 15 room? Stacked to the ceiling notations, operas, etudes, papers, books, and scores.<br />
Such environments inspire me right now to forego any internet shopping and make every purchase part of a bigger pilgrimage.<br />
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But I also felt guilty.<br />
There I was enjoying a 'find' in the midst of so much pain, sorrow, war, famine, violence, and hunger, chaos, confusion, and evil--not only in Cleveland but of course the world.<br />
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<i>So what follows is a little snapshot of what went on in my brain during those thirty odd minutes and following...</i><br />
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What really caught my eye were the two boxes of yellowed scores on the table in the hallway before I even went inside.<br />
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"Are the contents in the boxes on the table free?" I asked the lady seated in the corner behind stacks of little notebooks, pencils, lanyards and musical scores.<br />
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"Yes, help yourself."<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRHgS3AuJqduBmY6EhChLltd4lHxA-Gbl0hFB588Hpw4x3ZQD77-Cto9JcXcgmG-Vvn8KXWl2A-oDvD2_ZTrKsm36usqEKGA2mQCcsFV3KQGVO02Upx8yBxow71JlExCsj5F-viiEEFjh7/s1600/IMG_0236.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRHgS3AuJqduBmY6EhChLltd4lHxA-Gbl0hFB588Hpw4x3ZQD77-Cto9JcXcgmG-Vvn8KXWl2A-oDvD2_ZTrKsm36usqEKGA2mQCcsFV3KQGVO02Upx8yBxow71JlExCsj5F-viiEEFjh7/s1600/IMG_0236.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a>I soon completed my purchase which, by the way will secure my top spot as a top notch frustrated home-schooled student of the cello-- D Alexanian's 1922 <b>Complete Cello Technique, The Classic Treatise on Cello Theory and Practice.</b><br />
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At the table I found well worn and yellowed pages from Etude Magazine and scooped them as well as some other papers up. As I leafed through my treasures at home, I found myself wishing that such a periodical was still available--written, printed, and hardcopied. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnIqBLs1wUF4yC6spJFhPOdocJ-d2TjSu9-dryqMz0MLMgb435iBhhKs-G_YJ-EnYw7FHL0WkiZUfwNuNBvljAFRjjmNunnXq4TfTbxLAaBAZptuaH0qog9bCzB21srnF6aSp_NocHxDhQ/s1600/IMG_0235.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnIqBLs1wUF4yC6spJFhPOdocJ-d2TjSu9-dryqMz0MLMgb435iBhhKs-G_YJ-EnYw7FHL0WkiZUfwNuNBvljAFRjjmNunnXq4TfTbxLAaBAZptuaH0qog9bCzB21srnF6aSp_NocHxDhQ/s1600/IMG_0235.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
The magazine published musical scores and I happened to pick up the one that contained Georges Bizet's, Gypsy Song from Carmen. Even my son said it was a find and this was a big deal because I have been know to arrive home with a plethora of weird treasures on occasion (in fact this week almost had me bringing home a squirrel tail from a nearby roadkill (photo not shared) to be used for tying flies--until my wife reminded me I already had one in the garage). Among Carmen and Bizet another find was an article on "Building the Successful Choral Society" from 1945. Having some old church organist blood in me (I confess I belonged at one time to the American Guild of Organists!).<br />
I started to bemoan the current liturgical music situation that has overtaken and infected the liturgies for the past 50 years--and it has something to do not only with a loss of class and culture but probably more so--a loss of the decent salaries for good church musicians.<br />
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In addition to the tattered copy of Etude, I ended up coming across a full copy of <b>Were You There?</b> by H.T. Burleigh. 15cents!! printed in 1924 and my connection is too strong not share. There was one church in particular that did not lose its sense of liturgical music history and culture and that was the Episcopal Cathedral of St. Paul, of which yours truly was once the assisting clergy (which is a story in itself) I loved the music and the richness of the liturgy and the Book of Common Prayer. So too did Harry Burleigh--for he sang in the choir at that very church. <br />
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So what is the point?<br />
The dates...<br />
1922, 1924, 1945, 1938--a long time ago<br />
Before homes had typewriters let alone the internet.<br />
Before cell phones and flat screens and even television.<br />
Even before 8 track players.<br />
60 years post Civil War and just prior and during WWII.<br />
You get the drift...<br />
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We need to use our God-given gifts to inspire not confuse. There were some rough, dismal, depressing, violent, and hopeless times in that span of history. Yet here we are. And there I was rummaging through a box of music that weathered those times--authors and composers long dead--but nonetheless authors who participated in the creative process and work of 'beauty' and ergo--God.<br />
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We need to stop adding to the confusion and fight the 'battles' using our gifts and thus---proclaim the presence of God--not chaos. Creativity is not about self promotion it is about selfless cooperation with beauty and creation.<br />
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I made the mistake years ago, at times, of focusing on my memoir as an opportunity to earn some money. I set myself up and still am reminded of my ill-fated approach.<br />
I would often have to be reminded that I wasn't writing for myself or my family. No there was a bigger purpose--bigger than me. As one author shared "It doesn't matter if it isn't published Michael, the Virgin Mary commission this work from you and you completed it." Well that was nice and it was a compliment but still it was a big piece of humble pie to chew on. Eventually i had no choice but to eat.<br />
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And know what? Just the other day an ex priest from a foreign country found me and wanted to chat. No 'consulting fee' or speaker's offering' just a quick heart to heart among perfect strangers somehow ontologically connected.<br />
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Today--anybody can publish and make a movie and youtube all you need is a connection. Anybody can produce or expel anything and think it worthy of consumption by not only society but the world wide web. I know because I have. Hit the 'send' or 'publish' or 'purchase' button and you are an instant author, artist, producer and consumer. We seem to have lost any governing standards in such an approach. <br />
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Today...<br />
It's easier today to live in the dark and confuse it with living in the light.<br />
It's easier today to simply fall into a pragmatic and relativistic approach to life.<br />
It's easier to be masters of our own.<br />
It's easier to substitute other gods<br />
It's easier to, in the end--forget God.<br />
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During those years listed on the copyrights of my finds--inspiration kept occurring. Old music is a reminder that our God is timeless. People kept connecting with their gifts. Even in the midst of the horrific tragedies and wars which beset that time--music and liturgy and prayer and praise were central. <b>It was a norm that allowed and motivated and inspired people to work a little harder at creativity and gather and celebrate it.</b><br />
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Today, horrific stuff keeps happening but the challenge is for man's creative response to rise to the occasion. Because it is that which becomes the channel for grace and healing and forgiveness and understanding and patience and dare I write--<b>Real Love and Real Sacrifice and Real Peace? </b> <span style="color: red;">If we but simply cooperate with the creative power of the God of the Universe and produce gifts that reflect an invitation to live in the light and not the darkness and confusion and chaos. Oh, and our model? His Son.</span><br />
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We are not in total failure here and I am not yearning for another time--<br />
I'm merely asking the question, "Can we still live as inspired people?"<br />
Yes. In the dark of winter may we become one with the Light of Christ.<br />
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<br />Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04407841703549363533noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817114550399247213.post-60676988034098505942014-12-17T17:56:00.001+01:002014-12-17T17:56:29.997+01:00A Lost Shepherd, Michael Ripple: Open Letter<a href="http://alostshepherdmedjugorje.blogspot.com/2014/12/open-letter.html?spref=bl">A Lost Shepherd, Michael Ripple: Open Letter</a>: Recent reflection shared by Catholic 356 from MR While it is to a rather specific audience...it holds true to anybody in the midst of life...Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04407841703549363533noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817114550399247213.post-59565060485758700412014-12-05T15:53:00.003+01:002014-12-05T19:38:49.068+01:00A Pub, A Concert, A Stranger, An AdventWhat started as a typical evening turned adventish.<br />
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I was riding with my son to a local pub. There we were to meet my lovely wife and her friend.<br />
It was cold, damp, and a bit dreary...early winter evening along the Great Lakes...you get the drift.<br />
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Advent.<br />
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I succumbed to a draft of Guinness and suddenly felt obliged to keep my tweed jacket on.<br />
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Nothing too earth shattering...just good conversation and fare.<br />
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Following we drove to where my son was giving a concert. Having dropped him off, my wife and her friend waited inside as I parked and then walked into the building.<br />
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Upon my entrance a young gentleman approached me.<br />
I was readying myself for the question of a couple bucks....<br />
It never came.<br />
<br />
"What do you do?"<br />
Now, had he known what existential angst such a question causes me--let alone from a complete stranger...<br />
<br />
"Well, we are going to a concert in the auditorium." I said motioning to where it was and starting to move in that direction. <br />
"No, I mean what do you DO?"<br />
"Well..." I stammered. I wasn't real comfortable and I just wanted to go to the concert.<br />
He persisted, "Are you a minister?"<br />
I stared in disbelief.<br />
I always do when taken by surprise. You would think I'd be onto it by now--having been knocked of my high horse countless times and in countless ways...<br />
<br />
My wife decided I stammered enough.<br />
"He was a Roman Catholic priest and he was an Episcopal priest after he left."<br />
<br />
At that point I wondered what my wife's friend was thinking as she stood and observed this encounter. She must be thinking "They're nuts."<br />
<br />
The man continued, "Do you mind if I read something to you?" He grabbed his phone and began. After the first couple sentences I knew it was about him.<br />
...his past, his life, his questions, his faith, his search for truth and answers and....purpose.<br />
<br />
He was feeling called to live a purposeful life<span style="color: red;">.</span> <span style="color: red;">His advent had been unfolding for years--through the many violences that life can hold.</span> We shared about our common blood of Judaism and covenant and 'being called.'<br />
He shared his story...out of nowhere and on this particular winter Advent Eve.<br />
<br />
We chatted and then agreed to chat more again, sometime in the next few days.<br />
Before he left--my wife asked him, "What made you think he was a minister?" Then laughed and added, "...was it his aura or oder of sanctity?"<br />
"I don't know, its just what I felt when I saw him, and the way he looked."<br />
<br />
Funny, I actually thought about shaving just the day before---but didn't because, well, I don't know.<br />
<br />
Advent and the adventure unfolds in the dark of the cold evening--the Kingdom breaking in.<br />
<br />
<br />Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04407841703549363533noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817114550399247213.post-65667640311893725622014-08-15T06:25:00.001+02:002014-08-15T06:25:22.057+02:00A Lost Shepherd, Michael Ripple: What a Ride<a href="http://alostshepherdmedjugorje.blogspot.com/2014/08/what-ride.html?spref=bl">A Lost Shepherd, Michael Ripple: What a Ride</a>: So it has been a while. Much has happened. All Grace.... And what a ride it has been! I began my sabbatical about year ago. I shut d...Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04407841703549363533noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817114550399247213.post-89063424771030531832014-05-06T14:17:00.001+02:002014-05-06T14:17:22.374+02:00A Lost Shepherd, Michael Ripple: The Last Day in Italy---an observation<a href="http://alostshepherdmedjugorje.blogspot.com/2014/05/the-last-day-in-italy-observation.html?spref=bl">A Lost Shepherd, Michael Ripple: The Last Day in Italy---an observation</a>: Though I have been home for a few days (attempting to track lost luggage), I have one scene which recurs and I find it somewhat humorous. T...Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04407841703549363533noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817114550399247213.post-85904683342051084032014-04-30T21:07:00.001+02:002014-04-30T21:07:42.959+02:00A Lost Shepherd, Michael Ripple: It's Obvious<a href="http://alostshepherdmedjugorje.blogspot.com/2014/04/its-obvious.html?spref=bl">A Lost Shepherd, Michael Ripple: It's Obvious</a>: We left Rome immediately following the canonizations of ss John Paul II and John XXIII. It was not an easy achievement. Millions of peop...Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04407841703549363533noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817114550399247213.post-26433177456695557302014-04-27T12:44:00.001+02:002014-04-27T12:44:52.189+02:00A Lost Shepherd, Michael Ripple: Beatification...an unexpected but perfect view<a href="http://alostshepherdmedjugorje.blogspot.com/2014/04/beatificationan-unexpected-but-perfect.html?spref=bl">A Lost Shepherd, Michael Ripple: Beatification...an unexpected but perfect view</a>: I awoke early this morning on Divine Mercy Sunday...the day of Beatification of John XXIII and John Paul II. I headed towards the Vatican....Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04407841703549363533noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817114550399247213.post-10129923485986754172014-04-27T00:11:00.003+02:002014-04-27T00:11:43.816+02:00A Lost Shepherd, Michael Ripple: My Trip to Collevalenza<a href="http://alostshepherdmedjugorje.blogspot.com/2014/04/my-trip-to-collevalenza.html?spref=bl">A Lost Shepherd, Michael Ripple: My Trip to Collevalenza</a>: First I need to preface this entry... It is a packed entry because it was a packed day. For now just some simple moments and experiences. ...Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04407841703549363533noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817114550399247213.post-54103089824454580652014-04-27T00:11:00.001+02:002014-04-27T00:11:27.879+02:00A Lost Shepherd, Michael Ripple: Assisi<a href="http://alostshepherdmedjugorje.blogspot.com/2014/04/assisi.html?spref=bl">A Lost Shepherd, Michael Ripple: Assisi</a>: A subway, a train and a bus....and I ended up in Assisi. For years I have heard, "You will love it there. It is so quiet and peacef...Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04407841703549363533noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817114550399247213.post-61879120015408145352014-04-25T00:01:00.001+02:002014-04-25T00:01:48.869+02:00A Lost Shepherd, Michael Ripple: John XXIII and a possessed woman<a href="http://alostshepherdmedjugorje.blogspot.com/2014/04/john-xxiii-and-possessed-woman.html?spref=bl">A Lost Shepherd, Michael Ripple: John XXIII and a possessed woman</a>: My day in the Eternal City.... Lines at security at 7 am to get into St Peters. Holy Mass over the body of S. John XXIII....pretty cool co...Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04407841703549363533noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817114550399247213.post-47461244246987461112014-04-24T03:22:00.001+02:002014-04-24T03:22:41.448+02:00A Lost Shepherd, Michael Ripple: Canonizations ...the first hours<a href="http://alostshepherdmedjugorje.blogspot.com/2014/04/canonizations-first-hours.html?spref=bl">A Lost Shepherd, Michael Ripple: Canonizations ...the first hours</a>: Having landed only a couple of hours earlier, I meandered through Rome and came upon a large fortress. It was the wall of Vatican City. I ...Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04407841703549363533noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817114550399247213.post-21029123590332325452014-04-11T14:44:00.001+02:002014-04-11T14:44:26.848+02:00A Lost Shepherd, Michael Ripple: Canonizations, Crowds, and Angst.<a href="http://alostshepherdmedjugorje.blogspot.com/2014/04/canonizations-crowds-and-angst.html?spref=bl">A Lost Shepherd, Michael Ripple: Canonizations, Crowds, and Angst.</a>: As I ready myself for a jaunt to Rome and Vatican City I find myself experiencing more of a desire to stay home. Don't get me wrong, I ...Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04407841703549363533noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817114550399247213.post-59968746910701174142014-04-04T19:37:00.001+02:002014-04-04T19:37:40.443+02:00A Lost Shepherd, Michael Ripple: Typical Day in the Life of An Ex-Priest...<a href="http://alostshepherdmedjugorje.blogspot.com/2014/04/typical-day-in-life-of-ex-priest.html?spref=bl">A Lost Shepherd, Michael Ripple: Typical Day in the Life of An Ex-Priest...</a>: A few ask---so here it is. 8 AM--Attending First Friday Holy Mass and confession with my son and niece (decided a donut without frosting ...Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04407841703549363533noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817114550399247213.post-89313167178799825482014-03-21T23:59:00.001+01:002014-03-21T23:59:26.182+01:00A Lost Shepherd, Michael Ripple: Repent and Reboot and Do it FAST<a href="http://alostshepherdmedjugorje.blogspot.com/2014/03/repent-and-reboot-and-do-it-fast.html?spref=bl">A Lost Shepherd, Michael Ripple: Repent and Reboot and Do it FAST</a>: I came across this latest little snippet... A bishop askes the people of God to consider how they use social media and calls for people to ...Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04407841703549363533noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817114550399247213.post-24480571501666742342014-03-19T13:54:00.001+01:002014-03-19T13:54:07.820+01:00A Lost Shepherd, Michael Ripple: Pope Francis<a href="http://alostshepherdmedjugorje.blogspot.com/2014/03/pope-francis.html?spref=bl">A Lost Shepherd, Michael Ripple: Pope Francis</a>: Following is a pretty solid article on Pope Francis and the 'dis obedience' of the clergy.Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04407841703549363533noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817114550399247213.post-47066506207927042152014-03-06T14:03:00.001+01:002014-03-06T14:03:54.663+01:00A Lost Shepherd, Michael Ripple: Remember That You are Dust....(and other rememberi...<a href="http://alostshepherdmedjugorje.blogspot.com/2014/03/remember-that-you-are-dustand-other.html?spref=bl">A Lost Shepherd, Michael Ripple: Remember That You are Dust....(and other rememberi...</a>: Ash Wednesday. The older I get, the more time I spend remembering. It was Ash Wednesday when I had lunch at the local club with my Episc...Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04407841703549363533noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817114550399247213.post-86847946724492025122014-02-08T14:52:00.001+01:002014-02-08T14:52:36.757+01:00A Lost Shepherd, Michael Ripple: Canonization of Popes John Paul II and John XXIII<a href="http://alostshepherdmedjugorje.blogspot.com/2014/02/canonization-of-popes-john-paul-ii-and.html?spref=bl">A Lost Shepherd, Michael Ripple: Canonization of Popes John Paul II and John XXIII</a>: Truly the story of A Lost Shepherd continues... As Providence has it, I will be traveling and staying in Vatican City for the canonization ...Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04407841703549363533noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817114550399247213.post-42088523015708566892014-02-02T02:34:00.000+01:002014-02-02T02:34:02.211+01:00Going Retro IIIFor years I went against the grain.<br />
Don't know why--<br />
It's in my DNA<br />
<br />
Now, I take some joy in watching my son do the same. <br />
<br />
The iPad broke a while back.<br />
Twitter was deleted.<br />
The Facebook account is now gone.<br />
I still have a phone. But even that has become more of a nuisance.<br />
<br />
I never needed the Facebook--that was only to help market the book, A Lost Shepherd.<br />
As to the iPad, well I have to admit I did enjoy reading and some editing on the tablet as well as a game here and there. But I've no desire to replace it.<br />
<br />
I carry a book with me, or a magazine when I know I will have some time waiting for my son at a philharmonic practice or swim meet.<br />
<br />
Yep, I'm officially old fashioned I suppose.<br />
And the past month has been great.<br />
It has helped me focus.<br />
<br />
In many ways it helped me recapture my desire to still 'go against the grain'.<br />
<br />
It is a lot like fasting. The effects are very similar. All the unnecessary sugars and fats are eliminated and the body cleanses itself and sharpens the senses. <br />
<br />
Maybe I'll grow a mullet.<br />
<br />
<br />Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04407841703549363533noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817114550399247213.post-28766913760812968622014-01-20T00:48:00.001+01:002014-01-20T00:48:33.261+01:00A Lost Shepherd, Michael Ripple: NEWS on MEDUGORJE<a href="http://alostshepherdmedjugorje.blogspot.com/2014/01/news-on-medugorje.html?spref=bl">A Lost Shepherd, Michael Ripple: NEWS on MEDUGORJE</a>: I offer this from a reputable source... Our Lady of Tihaljina----m ripple taken on a pilgrimageMichaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04407841703549363533noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817114550399247213.post-51672870999761538032014-01-19T19:57:00.000+01:002014-01-20T00:30:47.795+01:00Going Retro Part IIWell, my quest for getting rid of the 'noise' has been ongoing.<br />
Since the loss of the iPAD (see previous entry)--I've taken it a step further.<br />
I deactivated A Lost Shepherd's Facebook account.<br />
<br />
My only reason for having the Facebook was to do some self marketing for the work, A Lost Shepherd. In the end I have learned that any 'marketing' would have to be handled by the Virgin Mary if she wanted this book to get out. So I surrendered and let go.<br />
I'm not sure how many books actually were ordered through Facebook 'friends' or connections--but it wasn't enough for me to warrant getting photos or updates or recipes from people I didn't even know. For me (and please note I prefaced this with 'For me...') ...<span style="color: red;">For me Facebook was doing absolutely nothing for my salvation or even the salvation of anyone else. </span><br />
<br />
Simply put, the people I need to stay in touch with are available the 'old fashion way'--phone.<br />
I'm not judging others' use--just sharing that my intention for Facebook was to sell some books and not enter deeper into a virtual social connection. The books really aren't selling through Facebook, ergo---no need to post updates and befriend and check in and out of a virtual world. <br />
Of course I learned a little more about the virtual social world and am amazed at the amount of clergy and religious who seem to spend and inordinate amount of time updating and sharing and homilizing....amazing!<br />
<br />
So, this going retro is great gift. It helps me get re-focused.<br />
<br />
The only 'virtual' world I will enter is the writing I have on Praylium and A Lost Shepherd. <br />
<br />
And there will be some writing to come....it seems that I will be traveling to the Vatican this spring for Pope John Paul II's canonization. <br />
I have a story about John Paul and his intercession in my life and I will begin to share it in a few days. <br />
<br />
<br />Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04407841703549363533noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817114550399247213.post-52586549035743724502013-12-17T21:03:00.001+01:002013-12-17T21:03:18.865+01:00Going RetroI dropped my iPad.<div>
It has been about, well, since the beginning of Advent (more on that later)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I never really did anything productive with it.</div>
<div>
I tried to read some books or glance at some motorcycle buyers guides.</div>
<div>
I played some monopoly, blackjack, chess, and loved watching weather radars.</div>
<div>
Looking back it was, for me, nothing but wasted time.</div>
<div>
Probably more than I would ever admit.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Time I should have been praying.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So, it's broke.</div>
<div>
I'm making no attempt at fixing it or even replacing it.</div>
<div>
For a moment part of me wanted to fix it....because I was going to use it in a blues/rock band that my son and I are in.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
One day I looked at the 1962 hammond sitting in the living room.</div>
<div>
"Retro" I thought. "Time to go retro..."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It's been jumping around in my mind for some time--too connected. <b><span style="color: red;">And not 'too' connected to all the wrong stuff, but for me just too connected to stuff that doesn't matter. It's easy to do in this world--to fill up our time with nothing--not even thoughts of God. </span></b> Really, do I care what the 36 hour forecast is? I don't need to check CNN or glance at some ecclesial news portal--even if it is in passing and i'm not alienating my family. My checking out the internet really does nothing for me.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
...or my soul.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Now, don't jump down my throat...Yes I am using the internet at this very minute. </div>
<div>
But I have to tell you...I'm getting ready to go retro.</div>
<div>
Or at least--quasi retro (cell phones and minimum blogging stuff)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Let's face it--I started this blog in order to continue sharing a snippet of faith wrapped in my experiences. </div>
<div>
Then I began a Facebook simply to help promote my book, A Lost Shepherd, and I even put together a YouTube video promotion. </div>
<div>
In the end however---i'm not sure why good this blogging has done or how my soul has grown because of wireless connectivity or even how many books sold.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Nope, time to go retro.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Oh, and a funny thing happened on the way through this Advent...At the beginning my prayer was simply 'Come Lord Jesus'.</div>
<div>
Then the iPad broke.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I'll keep you posted.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04407841703549363533noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817114550399247213.post-1871383086919738262013-12-11T16:45:00.002+01:002013-12-11T16:45:39.977+01:00Out of No WhereThe other evening we attended a rather remarkable performance of the local junior philharmonic. On the way out, my lovely wife struck up a conversation with a lady. I paid little attention and went about my business of going to get the car and have it warmed up for the return home. Where we live, during this time of year, getting in a warm car when it is cold, snowy, and dark (at 5 pm) is truly a luxury.<br />
It's the little things.<br />
<br />
Anyways, it turns out that the conversation my wife was having had an almost immediate affect on our living room.<br />
The lady was looking to unload an old spinet organ.<br />
<br />
Three days later, my son and I braved a snowstorm and brought home the gift.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZs8i_pvWo4o1ALi9uFsh27yUSks4lbLzM7SrCgVBVl_5GGbC2J8Uz42nxToSSnJxe-fWDqymZ25C8-uq4muXtiW28HNTXeNi0HganwoCneSYekfUTMI5U4yR1NRWEpZSDXwsj-TrM51gI/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZs8i_pvWo4o1ALi9uFsh27yUSks4lbLzM7SrCgVBVl_5GGbC2J8Uz42nxToSSnJxe-fWDqymZ25C8-uq4muXtiW28HNTXeNi0HganwoCneSYekfUTMI5U4yR1NRWEpZSDXwsj-TrM51gI/s320/photo.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Here is the cool thing. While I was very happy to have an organ--it wasn't just any organ. It ended up being a 1962 Hammond m-100 model (nicknamed the baby b3 for all you hammond junkies). That's right, the old hammond tube sound/reverb/leslie/toggle switch motor--I was in heaven--and it works!! All we need is a little oil (on the wood and in the machine!)...and a bench.<br />
My son and I can't help but break into the 12 bar blues--you name it he brings the instrument over...sax, bari sax, clarinet, flute, even oboe and english horn (though jazz oboe (next to sax) is very cool with an old hammond!<br />
<br />
So, the point? Tis the Season.<br />
What a surprise. What a cool gift.<br />
It is spiritually obvious...isn't it?<br />
<br />
<span style="color: red;"><b>Out of no where---in the dark cold night--</b></span><br />
<div>
<span style="color: red;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04407841703549363533noreply@blogger.com