In the ancient world actors such as Philemon used to wear masks . . . but the Lord can see through any act: there are no masks before the throne of God.
Drama of Repentance: Pergolesi’s Miserere
Here the urgent, dramatic orchestration pulls us down into King David's turbulent emotions as he comes to acknowledge his sinfulness and his need for God's mercy.
St. Agnes of Bohemia: Bride of The King
One of the things that the lives of the saints show us is how important each one of us is to God, however insignificant we may seem in the eyes of the world: there are no insignificant saints. In fact, the lives of the saints often show us in various ways that "the wisdom of this world is folly with God." (1 Corinthians 3:19) One of today's saints, St. Agnes of Bohemia (also known as St. Agnes of Prague) provides a good example of just how foolish the "wisdom" of the world can be.
Have Mercy! Allegri’s Miserere on the 1st Monday in Lent
Today's Music Monday For the 1st week of Lent features Allegri's Miserere, a beautiful and moving composition that also has an interesting history.
Steyn, Spong, Kempton, and The Passion Of The Christ
Steyn, Spong, Kempton . . . Steyn, Spong, Kempton? The Passion of the Christ I know, but . . . who are those guys. I'll explain. It goes back to February 25, 2004. Twenty-two years ago today. We might not remember the exact date, but most of us (except the youngsters) will remember the event. On … Continue reading Steyn, Spong, Kempton, and The Passion Of The Christ
The Name of the Lord: 1st Sunday of Lent
Those who confess that Jesus is Lord, and believe in their heart that God raised him from the dead, do not, and cannot, “rage against the dying of the light.” The light of this world is only a passing reflection of the true light of Heaven.
The Last Chance Before Lent: Haydn’s Te Deum
Yes, this is the last chance: Lent is approaching fast. Ash Wednesday is just two days away. This is our last chance to get in a joyful sacred composition by our old friend Joseph Haydn before the penitential season begins.
St. Paul’s Autographs
Let me tell you about how I became friends with a fellow named Paul, from Tarsus . . .
Patron of Agape: St. Valentine
Here is a saint who gave his life to bring men and women together in the loving bond of Christian marriage, and whose last thought as he faced his own death was directed toward comforting another. What better image to offer in response to the self-indulgent, dehumanizing sexuality that is so prevalent today?
Music for Love and Marriage: Handel’s “He Shall Feed His Flock”
"He Shall Feed His Flock" emphasizes the love of the God who is Love (see John 4:8) for all of us, but especially for our own love as expressed in the Sacrament of Marriage.