Nunc Dimittis

After over 57 years serving as a priest in the Diocese of Salt Lake City, the last 24 as pastor of St. Olaf Parish in Bountiful, the Very Reverend Rudolph A. Daz celebrated his last Sunday Masses this past weekend. On August 1, he will retire from active priestly duties. Fr Reynato T. Rodillas, SVD, has been named as Parish Administrator.

While the parish knew this day would eventually come, it was still a surprise when the announcement was made this past March. A retirement party was held for him on June 5 to a gym full of well-wishers (including myself). A true man of God, he is well-loved by those he has guided and will be greatly missed.

"Well done, good and faithful servant."

Perfectly Squared Day

As the Barry Manilow song goes, "Looks like we made it."

I speak, of course, of my "coming out" party 49 years ago.

The most significant milestone in my life is once again being acknowledged; because without this one, there would not be any at all.

First, foremost, and always, I am thankful for being. Existing is a good thing; the first option of Hamlet's question is the right answer. God knows I should be more grateful for that, considering how things could be going.

Yet God knows how much of an Augustinian heart I have. I find it so ironic the number of years I have been alive is now the same as the number of full months I have been without a job. I know Jesus said to only worry about today, but it is so hard when the few bills I have can't be paid. And the Devil knows of that insecurity all too well. Thank God there is more than enough grace to overcome being hopelessly despondent.

The motto of this 'blog and its owner has been "Go Forward." There are days when I think I do; there are days when I just hold my ground; there are days when reverse seems to be the direction. At times the cross you carry is an easy yoke; at times you have Simeon along; at times it fells you. Yet, it is with you always.

Such is each individual's via crucis, this experience called life. There is no living without dying, but there is no dying without rising. Is this not the true meaning of being an "Easter people," in the words of Blessed John Paul II? Is this not what we are called to do according to the prayer ascribed to St. Francis of Assisi? How can we be fruitful unless we become a seed scattered and sown?

"Grow old along with me! The best is yet to be, the last of life, for which the first was made. Our times are in his hand who saith, "A whole I planned, youth shows but half; Trust God: See all, nor be afraid!'"

Robert Browning

(1812-1889)

I pray the best is yet to come.

Resolutely Free

There are claims that today should be our Independence Day, based on the approval of this resolution present by Richard Henry Lee to the Continental Congress this day in 1776:

Resolved, That these United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent States, that they are absolved from all allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain is, and ought to be, totally dissolved.

That it is expedient forthwith to take the most effectual measures for forming foreign Alliances.

That a plan of confederation be prepared and transmitted to the respective Colonies for their consideration and approbation.

While eloquent enough, what followed two days later is certainly more edifying.

National Anthem Sweet

In honor of Canada Day (once upon a time called Dominion Day), I present the lyrics to one of the most melodious national anthems in the world.

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O Canada! Our home and native land!
True patriot love in all thy sons command.
With glowing hearts we see thee rise,
The True North strong and free!
From far and wide, O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
God keep our land glorious and free!
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

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A history of how the song developed can be found here.

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Originally posted on 7/1/2009.

Re-posted on 7/1/2010