31 thoughts on “Another Year in the Life of a Part Time Hermit – Episode 6 – The Arrival of Company”
Here as always the text of the reflection (for those who want to read it or run through a translator like deepl.com): This final reflection was the most difficult and I penned many paragraphs that did not make the cut. Like all of these reflections, they are just thoughts that I have tried to sort and put in some order hoping they are helpful. But they are not exhaustive and if you disagree or see a major flaw in my thinking, be sure to let me know. I learn all the time. It is with understanding that I read comments now and again that are weary of the human element in religion or voice mistrust; comments that embrace spirituality not religion for that reason; that accept Jesus but not the Church – least of all the Catholic Church. I understand – even if for reasons such as those presented in this series, I cannot agree. I've expressed in the last two episodes that religion is not an individualistic affair, but that it has a social element. This is necessarily so, because we are social creatures. And yet this social dimension which manifests in organization, liturgy, culture and institutions – not only comes with the promise of greater fulfillment but with risks – risks that we should all try to minimize. In this endeavor, I suggested that we can both examine the structure of these institutions and we can examine ourselves. The big lines concerning structure were drawn in the last episode. We have seen advantages and disadvantages of the proposed organizational models and maybe you disagree with my assessment both concerning their origin and their value. And even if you don't, you might have questions regarding other, more particular things that could be considered structural and possibly negative. People for example have suggested for my catholic faith that celibacy is a systematic and structural cause of many ills – ills such abuse that would be preventable with married clergy. Having read the Report of the John Jay College of Criminal Justice and the Royal Commission in Australia, that common wisdom is not supported. I had a whole section here in the reflection to look at this question in more detail because it is so frequently brought before me. But I took it out. You have to see it for yourself. Google the official numbers of abuse reported to police in your country for a given year to realize how horrendous the problem really is – and that it is in our families, where most of these cases occur but are obviously not widely reported. Then add the hidden figures that remain in the dark because of shame. After all it concerns one's own family and relations. I don't say this to relativize what happens in religious institutions. I say it, to ask those, who believe that abolishing celibacy would eliminate this crime, if they have thought things through or, worse, whether they are using those crimes to push for a particular agenda within the church on the backs of victims and survivors. Much more relevant than celibacy to this problem in terms of structure is access to children and the power differential. These are the markers of abuse across the spectrum of professions that are most notorious in these crime statistics, including educators, youth leaders, sport coaches. It is here that the Churches often fails children for a first time. The second time is when the fear of scandal leads to cover-ups and in the worst case to more victims because the criminal was reassigned elsewhere. It is true that in the 60s and 70s – when the numbers of abuse were highest according to statistics –, experts in the field of psychology frequently counseled bishops that a therapy could cure the offender. But this does not absolve from much of what was done or not done. And it makes current failures all the more egregious; failures that according to the words of Christ deserve a millstone around the neck. We are not talking about some backwater of the Church either. I'm infuriated by men in the Vatican – even and maybe especially so by the one wearing white. There is much wrong in my church. There are honest people, people working for the good, there are steps that are taken, structures that need improvement and are improved, but there is also much cronyism and self-flattery because in high places you will not only find shepherds of souls but peacocks who love the world. This is why in dealing with the current state of the church we not only have to look at structures – though it needs to be done – but at ourselves and how we best respond to this quagmire. Lord Acton, an English Catholic, politician, writer and historian is famous for his words: Power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely. Maybe this particular statement needs some qualification, but in the very same letter he wrote something that seems true to me in a more straight-forward way – even if slightly hyperbolic: “There is no worse heresy than that the office sanctifies the holder of it.” Lord Acton rightly saw no reason that kings or popes should be judged with more lenience than the common man. If anything they should be judged more harshly. In fact I think they will be … in the end. For the gospel of Luke relates the words of Christ: To whomsoever much is given, of him shall much be required (Lk 12,48). This distinction between the person and the office is an important one – and one that religious people, I mean believers, often get wrong. They admire their pastors, preachers, charismatic speakers and clergy. They venerate their leaders. Bishops and Popes are defended not because they are good men but because they hold that lofty office. Priests are adored and made out to be holy not because they are, but because they are imagined to be. All kinds of virtues are projected on them because they have answered the call. All sorts of trust in placed at their feet because of what they should be. To be frank I'm not comfortable with a number of comments I have received either under my videos or under videos about me on youtube. I am a man, a fallible man, and a man that falls all the time. I'm not proud of it and those who have read my travel diaries will glance at my shortcomings at every third page. I distinguish between my fallible self and the holy office that I hold as a priest. And I think everyone else should too. To get closer to my meaning I would like to explore two concepts: power and authority. PART II below
I enjoyed your thoughts on church hierarchy from a Catholic perspective. Your learned understanding of the failings of various types of leaderships and your defence of the Catholic tradition seems to make sense in a world which has entered yet again a chaotic and demonic phase where war and corruption is spreading. I liked your understanding of church being a community and religion not being a singular practice. I am a Quaker, which seems to narrow down the possibility of corruption in the religious community I belong to, and being one who has witnessed degradation in the charismatic stream I am happy with it that way. I have a deeply reverent Catholic friend whose devotion I respect and love who keeps me in touch with tradition. I would welcome more of your thoughts as I like to compare them with my own and keep learning.
Thank you for these videos. Your calm voice and the lessons on spirituality and devotion you provide have been invaluable. While I am a believer in Christ and his teachings, I do not subscribe to organized religion. As you have mentioned, organized religion is managed by people, and their interpretations of God's word can sometimes be flawed. Your deep faith and words resonate deeply with me; you have taught me so much, and I am saddened that this is your last video. Please consider creating more content, as you bring peace and understanding to myself and many others around the world. May you walk in beauty throughout your life. God has surely blessed you.
Once again I thank you for sharing your beliefs, thoughts and wisdom with us. I am not a believer, not a religious person in any way. I have been too disgusted by what has been done in the name of religions over the centuries. No religion has come out of it well, or nobly, in any respect. I just believe that if a person is open, honest, compassionate and caring for any person that crosses their path needing care and support then an awful lot can be done to make the world a better place. Mine is a small world, I don't move in large circles of people but in my family, friends, neighbours and associates, I do what I can. And at my weakest and most helpless, at least do no harm. Listening to you opens my mind and my heart. It calms me and promotes my thinking and my awareness. I thank you for that and I look forward to your return.
Merci pour la belle vidéo, et la réflexion. J'ai hâte de voir le tabernacle fini, je suis heureux qu'il y ai encore des catholiques attachés à la tradition et à la beauté. Nous aimons notre églises, malgré les pêcheurs qui l'a représente sur terre, parceque elle est le corps mystique du Christ, nous la verrons sous son meilleur jour au Ciel ! Merci encore pour le tabernacle !
Thank you father. The reflection is one of the more thought provoking and it is applicable on many levels and fronts. The tabernacle is beautiful. I hope to see more from you sooner rather than later. All the best-
Thank you for another wonderful series. Your reflections are very thought provoking and much appreciated. I hope you will continue to post in the future, even if it's just one short video once in a blue moon.
My mother is Roman Catholic, my family on that side is Italian. We were separated when I was young and I did not have contact with her at all until I was a man. I had always considered myself a believer yet sceptical one in God. I even attended Catholic school once for a year when I was a child. But I did not come to appreciate God until I was in the army. Even then it was a small part of my life. As I've gotten older I had always considered my Catholic and would even attend Catholic mass occasionally but it was always a personal thing for me where I would pray and leave for the most part. Over the past few years I've felt somewhat of a nagging to get my soul I guess you could say "in order." I was never baptized or confirmed in any church let alone a Roman Catholic one. My mother wanted to do this when I was a baby but I will not get into the dynamics of my childhood here other than to say that it did not take place. When I started watching Martijns channel I was interested in his neighbour, you. I had contacted the Roman Catholic Church in my area about RCIA. And after failed prior attempts I have been able to find the time to attend classes and mass as much as possible. I will soon be baptized and confirmed by Easter. Your YouTube channel which I watch each week has been a motivating factor in my decision, I would like to thank you for that. In my particular case when people are concerned about "hot button" issues that people trying to join the church might take issue with the ones that you would assume are troubling to people are the ones I find easy to accept and it's the much more liberal views that I sometimes struggle with. I find myself occasionally at odds for example with some of our current Popes opinions on current issues. I nevertheless remind myself that I am forming a relationship with God through his original church and creating brothers and sisters in a family within the church is important but my relationship with God needs to take precedence over that. Anyway once again I wanted to say thank you for what I feel was sort of a weekly pep-talk and motivational reflections. I often find myself agreeing with for the most part. I look forward to us both being part of a shared Christian family through the Catholic Church. Thanks again Father Jojohannes, I hope your channel has great success and I hope to see in the future sometime another set of videos. Until then best wishes with everything and God bless 🙂 Daniel
I've thoroughly enjoyed your musings again this year Johannes, thank you. I've been noticing a worrying trend of people on social media to 'unfollow' or not listen to those with whom they disagree. As a Christian who worships and understands theology according to the confessions of Protestantism, I definitely disagree with many of the ideas you have – not least, that you need to create a dwelling place in wood for that which you perceive to be your God (1 Corinthians 3v16-17, 2 Corinthians 6v16, Hebrews 9v24). I only wish my heart were as inwardly beautiful as your wooden temple for the dwelling place of my Lord and Saviour, by his Spirit! However, I also have found I agree with much of what you have said, and you have given me so much food for thought. I especially appreciated the humble way in which you approached this week's topic, and hope and pray that all our leaders, both in Christianity and in the secular sphere, would have the same humility and approach to power and authority. Wishing you every blessing this year – and sorry for the long comment 🤭
Thanks for this. I enjoyed your thoughts on the power vs authority distinction as it pertains to the Catholic Church, or any other recognized authority. I'd be curious about your thoughts on the dichotomy as it pertains to our personal spiritual lives (although I recognize your emphasis is building up the Catholic Church). In my own experience power is the exercising of my will versus the authority that comes through relationship… surrendering my will to God's will which releases resurrection power. (Also, as an Aristotelian, I'd still love your take on Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance. Haha) Many Blessings, good and faithful servant!
I am thoroughly enjoying your book Following Columban and most of all your wonderful films here on YouTube. Your tabernacle looks amazing, especially against the icons of your altar.
I also enjoyed watching your programme with Ben Fogle – and it was interesting to see the 'tool shed' where he slept.
May I be bold to suggest a theme for a future video … I would love to see 'a day in the life of' video of your Horarium in your hermitage. That would bring a lot of focus for us lay Catholics who pray the offices / liturgy of the hours and live simple semi-monastic lives in our homes.
Until you speak to us again, may God bless you to the very core of your being. Thank you.
Johannes, I was already a fan, but these videos with your spiritual thoughts and reflections are really great. It is always good to see someone tackle religion in a clear, honest and straight way. Keep up the good work!
Thank you so much. I am reading your pilgrimage to Columban and enjoying your reflections very much–as well as the many adventures. I cannot be part of the power-over patriarchal Catholic Church though I am a graduate of Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio where I received an outstanding education. I am very grateful for all that I learned there though it came at the height of the sexual abuse scandals in the US. I am more opposed to the "religion" that ignores the suffering of millions of people and remains quiet. Unlike Christ who spoke out often against the systemic abuses of "his" religion. These are times when we need LOUD voices of compassion and love not quiet whimpering in support of political abuse. Shame on the Catholic Church for its quiet support of societal abuse.
Grant Pitre is one of my favorites. Thank you for suggesting this book. It is excellent. I'm thoroughly enjoying your videos. Thank you for sharing your life. Your Hermitage reminds me of a Poustinia.
Regarding the main idea of the video, I want to express my thoughts. As your colleague from the Orthodox camp, your thoughts about power are very close to me. This is a common problem for the Church of Christ. Of course, we have our own specifics, but the essence is the same. I sincerely understand the desire to stop publishing, this is necessary for the health of the soul. But I will miss you. Your videos are like a conversation with a close friend for me.
I've enjoyed these Another Year vids and homilies. It feels correct, a long pause. Then a surge. The surprising appearnce of Christ Procurator (?) icon on my wall preceeded my encounter with you Padre. But since Martin. It looks correct now. Shalom.
Here as always the text of the reflection (for those who want to read it or run through a translator like deepl.com):
This final reflection was the most difficult and I penned many paragraphs that did not make the cut. Like all of these reflections, they are just thoughts that I have tried to sort and put in some order hoping they are helpful. But they are not exhaustive and if you disagree or see a major flaw in my thinking, be sure to let me know. I learn all the time.
It is with understanding that I read comments now and again that are weary of the human element in religion or voice mistrust; comments that embrace spirituality not religion for that reason; that accept Jesus but not the Church – least of all the Catholic Church. I understand – even if for reasons such as those presented in this series, I cannot agree. I've expressed in the last two episodes that religion is not an individualistic affair, but that it has a social element. This is necessarily so, because we are social creatures. And yet this social dimension which manifests in organization, liturgy, culture and institutions – not only comes with the promise of greater fulfillment but with risks – risks that we should all try to minimize. In this endeavor, I suggested that we can both examine the structure of these institutions and we can examine ourselves. The big lines concerning structure were drawn in the last episode. We have seen advantages and disadvantages of the proposed organizational models and maybe you disagree with my assessment both concerning their origin and their value. And even if you don't, you might have questions regarding other, more particular things that could be considered structural and possibly negative. People for example have suggested for my catholic faith that celibacy is a systematic and structural cause of many ills – ills such abuse that would be preventable with married clergy. Having read the Report of the John Jay College of Criminal Justice and the Royal Commission in Australia, that common wisdom is not supported. I had a whole section here in the reflection to look at this question in more detail because it is so frequently brought before me. But I took it out. You have to see it for yourself. Google the official numbers of abuse reported to police in your country for a given year to realize how horrendous the problem really is – and that it is in our families, where most of these cases occur but are obviously not widely reported. Then add the hidden figures that remain in the dark because of shame. After all it concerns one's own family and relations. I don't say this to relativize what happens in religious institutions. I say it, to ask those, who believe that abolishing celibacy would eliminate this crime, if they have thought things through or, worse, whether they are using those crimes to push for a particular agenda within the church on the backs of victims and survivors.
Much more relevant than celibacy to this problem in terms of structure is access to children and the power differential. These are the markers of abuse across the spectrum of professions that are most notorious in these crime statistics, including educators, youth leaders, sport coaches. It is here that the Churches often fails children for a first time. The second time is when the fear of scandal leads to cover-ups and in the worst case to more victims because the criminal was reassigned elsewhere. It is true that in the 60s and 70s – when the numbers of abuse were highest according to statistics –, experts in the field of psychology frequently counseled bishops that a therapy could cure the offender. But this does not absolve from much of what was done or not done. And it makes current failures all the more egregious; failures that according to the words of Christ deserve a millstone around the neck. We are not talking about some backwater of the Church either. I'm infuriated by men in the Vatican – even and maybe especially so by the one wearing white. There is much wrong in my church. There are honest people, people working for the good, there are steps that are taken, structures that need improvement and are improved, but there is also much cronyism and self-flattery because in high places you will not only find shepherds of souls but peacocks who love the world.
This is why in dealing with the current state of the church we not only have to look at structures – though it needs to be done – but at ourselves and how we best respond to this quagmire.
Lord Acton, an English Catholic, politician, writer and historian is famous for his words: Power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely. Maybe this particular statement needs some qualification, but in the very same letter he wrote something that seems true to me in a more straight-forward way – even if slightly hyperbolic: “There is no worse heresy than that the office sanctifies the holder of it.” Lord Acton rightly saw no reason that kings or popes should be judged with more lenience than the common man. If anything they should be judged more harshly. In fact I think they will be … in the end. For the gospel of Luke relates the words of Christ: To whomsoever much is given, of him shall much be required (Lk 12,48).
This distinction between the person and the office is an important one – and one that religious people, I mean believers, often get wrong. They admire their pastors, preachers, charismatic speakers and clergy. They venerate their leaders. Bishops and Popes are defended not because they are good men but because they hold that lofty office. Priests are adored and made out to be holy not because they are, but because they are imagined to be. All kinds of virtues are projected on them because they have answered the call. All sorts of trust in placed at their feet because of what they should be. To be frank I'm not comfortable with a number of comments I have received either under my videos or under videos about me on youtube. I am a man, a fallible man, and a man that falls all the time. I'm not proud of it and those who have read my travel diaries will glance at my shortcomings at every third page. I distinguish between my fallible self and the holy office that I hold as a priest. And I think everyone else should too.
To get closer to my meaning I would like to explore two concepts: power and authority.
PART II below
Are you Byzantine Catholic? I noticed your Byzantine icon of the archangel Michael near your table:)
I enjoyed your thoughts on church hierarchy from a Catholic perspective. Your learned understanding of the failings of various types of leaderships and your defence of the Catholic tradition seems to make sense in a world which has entered yet again a chaotic and demonic phase where war and corruption is spreading. I liked your understanding of church being a community and religion not being a singular practice. I am a Quaker, which seems to narrow down the possibility of corruption in the religious community I belong to, and being one who has witnessed degradation in the charismatic stream I am happy with it that way. I have a deeply reverent Catholic friend whose devotion I respect and love who keeps me in touch with tradition. I would welcome more of your thoughts as I like to compare them with my own and keep learning.
Thank you for these videos. Your calm voice and the lessons on spirituality and devotion you provide have been invaluable. While I am a believer in Christ and his teachings, I do not subscribe to organized religion. As you have mentioned, organized religion is managed by people, and their interpretations of God's word can sometimes be flawed. Your deep faith and words resonate deeply with me; you have taught me so much, and I am saddened that this is your last video. Please consider creating more content, as you bring peace and understanding to myself and many others around the world. May you walk in beauty throughout your life. God has surely blessed you.
Once again I thank you for sharing your beliefs, thoughts and wisdom with us. I am not a believer, not a religious person in any way. I have been too disgusted by what has been done in the name of religions over the centuries. No religion has come out of it well, or nobly, in any respect. I just believe that if a person is open, honest, compassionate and caring for any person that crosses their path needing care and support then an awful lot can be done to make the world a better place. Mine is a small world, I don't move in large circles of people but in my family, friends, neighbours and associates, I do what I can. And at my weakest and most helpless, at least do no harm.
Listening to you opens my mind and my heart. It calms me and promotes my thinking and my awareness. I thank you for that and I look forward to your return.
Merci pour la belle vidéo, et la réflexion. J'ai hâte de voir le tabernacle fini, je suis heureux qu'il y ai encore des catholiques attachés à la tradition et à la beauté. Nous aimons notre églises, malgré les pêcheurs qui l'a représente sur terre, parceque elle est le corps mystique du Christ, nous la verrons sous son meilleur jour au Ciel ! Merci encore pour le tabernacle !
Thank you father. The reflection is one of the more thought provoking and it is applicable on many levels and fronts. The tabernacle is beautiful. I hope to see more from you sooner rather than later. All the best-
Thank you for another wonderful series. Your reflections are very thought provoking and much appreciated. I hope you will continue to post in the future, even if it's just one short video once in a blue moon.
My mother is Roman Catholic, my family on that side is Italian. We were separated when I was young and I did not have contact with her at all until I was a man. I had always considered myself a believer yet sceptical one in God. I even attended Catholic school once for a year when I was a child. But I did not come to appreciate God until I was in the army. Even then it was a small part of my life. As I've gotten older I had always considered my Catholic and would even attend Catholic mass occasionally but it was always a personal thing for me where I would pray and leave for the most part. Over the past few years I've felt somewhat of a nagging to get my soul I guess you could say "in order." I was never baptized or confirmed in any church let alone a Roman Catholic one. My mother wanted to do this when I was a baby but I will not get into the dynamics of my childhood here other than to say that it did not take place. When I started watching Martijns channel I was interested in his neighbour, you. I had contacted the Roman Catholic Church in my area about RCIA. And after failed prior attempts I have been able to find the time to attend classes and mass as much as possible. I will soon be baptized and confirmed by Easter. Your YouTube channel which I watch each week has been a motivating factor in my decision, I would like to thank you for that. In my particular case when people are concerned about "hot button" issues that people trying to join the church might take issue with the ones that you would assume are troubling to people are the ones I find easy to accept and it's the much more liberal views that I sometimes struggle with. I find myself occasionally at odds for example with some of our current Popes opinions on current issues. I nevertheless remind myself that I am forming a relationship with God through his original church and creating brothers and sisters in a family within the church is important but my relationship with God needs to take precedence over that. Anyway once again I wanted to say thank you for what I feel was sort of a weekly pep-talk and motivational reflections. I often find myself agreeing with for the most part. I look forward to us both being part of a shared Christian family through the Catholic Church. Thanks again Father Jojohannes, I hope your channel has great success and I hope to see in the future sometime another set of videos. Until then best wishes with everything and God bless 🙂
DanielI love your insight, please do not stop the videos. Your art and lifestyle is wonderful and you are a truly unique being 😊
I've thoroughly enjoyed your musings again this year Johannes, thank you. I've been noticing a worrying trend of people on social media to 'unfollow' or not listen to those with whom they disagree. As a Christian who worships and understands theology according to the confessions of Protestantism, I definitely disagree with many of the ideas you have – not least, that you need to create a dwelling place in wood for that which you perceive to be your God (1 Corinthians 3v16-17, 2 Corinthians 6v16, Hebrews 9v24). I only wish my heart were as inwardly beautiful as your wooden temple for the dwelling place of my Lord and Saviour, by his Spirit! However, I also have found I agree with much of what you have said, and you have given me so much food for thought. I especially appreciated the humble way in which you approached this week's topic, and hope and pray that all our leaders, both in Christianity and in the secular sphere, would have the same humility and approach to power and authority. Wishing you every blessing this year – and sorry for the long comment 🤭
Thanks for sharing these reflections,while doing an amazing piece of art.God bless.
Thanks for this. I enjoyed your thoughts on the power vs authority distinction as it pertains to the Catholic Church, or any other recognized authority. I'd be curious about your thoughts on the dichotomy as it pertains to our personal spiritual lives (although I recognize your emphasis is building up the Catholic Church). In my own experience power is the exercising of my will versus the authority that comes through relationship… surrendering my will to God's will which releases resurrection power. (Also, as an Aristotelian, I'd still love your take on Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance. Haha) Many Blessings, good and faithful servant!
Blessings to you Fr. Johannes, from Ireland.
I am thoroughly enjoying your book Following Columban and most of all your wonderful films here on YouTube. Your tabernacle looks amazing, especially against the icons of your altar.
I also enjoyed watching your programme with Ben Fogle – and it was interesting to see the 'tool shed' where he slept.
May I be bold to suggest a theme for a future video … I would love to see 'a day in the life of' video of your Horarium in your hermitage. That would bring a lot of focus for us lay Catholics who pray the offices / liturgy of the hours and live simple semi-monastic lives in our homes.
Until you speak to us again, may God bless you to the very core of your being. Thank you.
Damian
🙏❤️
Thank you 🙏💚
Blessings back atcha, Johannes. I am not Catholic or even religious, but I appreciate you. Hope you'll not be gone too long.
HOW DID THE AREA WITH ALL THE PLANTED BULBS DO?
Johannes, I was already a fan, but these videos with your spiritual thoughts and reflections are really great. It is always good to see someone tackle religion in a clear, honest and straight way. Keep up the good work!
The gold leaf turns green when in contact with human fat. You shouldn't have rubbed it with your fingers.
Thank-you
Thank you so much. I am reading your pilgrimage to Columban and enjoying your reflections very much–as well as the many adventures. I cannot be part of the power-over patriarchal Catholic Church though I am a graduate of Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio where I received an outstanding education. I am very grateful for all that I learned there though it came at the height of the sexual abuse scandals in the US. I am more opposed to the "religion" that ignores the suffering of millions of people and remains quiet. Unlike Christ who spoke out often against the systemic abuses of "his" religion. These are times when we need LOUD voices of compassion and love not quiet whimpering in support of political abuse. Shame on the Catholic Church for its quiet support of societal abuse.
So many marriages break up due to infidelity. The children suffer terribly because of this. God help us.
Grant Pitre is one of my favorites. Thank you for suggesting this book. It is excellent. I'm thoroughly enjoying your videos. Thank you for sharing your life. Your Hermitage reminds me of a Poustinia.
So Beautiful ❤
Thank you for this series. I enjoyed your words and the videos accompanying them.
Great video Fr.,such sage words,thanks for sharing 🙏🏻
Another visually beautiful and thoughtful video. We do enjoy them
Thank- you, for your honesty in presenting your reflections. Very thought provoking.
Regarding the main idea of the video, I want to express my thoughts. As your colleague from the Orthodox camp, your thoughts about power are very close to me. This is a common problem for the Church of Christ. Of course, we have our own specifics, but the essence is the same. I sincerely understand the desire to stop publishing, this is necessary for the health of the soul. But I will miss you. Your videos are like a conversation with a close friend for me.
I've enjoyed these Another Year vids and homilies. It feels correct, a long pause. Then a surge. The surprising appearnce of Christ Procurator (?) icon on my wall preceeded my encounter with you Padre. But since Martin. It looks correct now. Shalom.