Catching up on a few things....
My angel wings begonia has gone crazy, offering a profusion of blooms almost overnight:
August 24th was the feast day of St. Bartholomew, one of the Twelve Apostles. Biblical historians believe that Batholomew (a surname, son of Tolmey or Ptolemy) is the same person as Nathaniel, a friend of Phillip, another apostle. Of Nathaniel, Jesus said he is an "an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no deceit" (John 1:47). More on St. Bartholomew, the patron saint of tanners, leather workers and shoemakers, here and here.
I heard this lovely song, In Paradisum, from Faure's Requiem earlier this summer at the Lexington Summer Sings series. Here are the words and the English translation.
Exceptional reflection; both the begonia and especially St. Bartholomew; a martyr.
A scrimmaging Catholic as I am, whether we see our saints as entities of mythology or beacons, the lessons of steadfastness are valuable. Yes, even the secular could learn a thing or two from them.
I'm fortunate to have St. Cecelia's as my parish. I've stopped my theology shopping and resettled there.
Your item enriches my faith. And, may you too, feel what you are offering in turn.
Thank you. s/David
Posted by: Shawmut | August 29, 2008 at 12:49 PM