Saturday, December 24, 2011

When I'm Eighty-Five


There has been talk about the Pope's health, his use of that movable platform in St Peter's, the possibility he has lost the sight in one eye and so forth.

I'm over a quarter of a decade younger than him; after the Midnight, Dawn and the Day Masses I just want to sleep; if I had to celebrate Mass in a vast basilica which was also broadcast to millions I would want to sleep for a week rather than then have to get up and have to address the city and the world.

When I am 85..., well I know 35 year olds who find getting up exhausting!

I just admire that incredible 85 year olds stamina.

Lord bless Benedict with strength. Amen.

9 comments:

David O'Neill said...

I presume you meant a quarter of a CENTURY younger that His Holiness as you certainly don't look a quarter of a DECADE younger unless you are a remarkably well preserved 82!! LOL

Terry said...

The Lord bless the Pope! Amen to that. And may the Lord bless you, too, Fr Ray.
Thank you for your thoughts in your blog this year. Always interesting and thought provoking.

Have a Happy Christmas and a blessed new year!

Anita Moore said...

I get the feeling that some of this speculation about the Pope's poor health falls more into the category of wishful thinking -- the same kind of wishful thinking that, at the time of his accession, labeled him a "caretaker Pope" whose reign would be short and would feature nothing really spectacular.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, Father!

Anonymous said...

Amen. And a Peace-filled Happy Christmas to you, Father Ray, and the good health to reach 85 whether or not you become Pope!

IanW said...

Amen. A merry Christmas to you, Fr., and thanks for your thoughts.

Lynda said...

Pope Benedict's physical stamina is amazing, his mental stamina is even more so. However, even if he were severely enfeebled overnight, it wouldn't matter a whit - he is our spiritual father, and we don't need any great physical or mental feats by him. God guide and protect him always.

gemoftheocean said...

Well, in the Summer the pope has Castle Gandolfo I expect every summer you can rent a cottage in the Isle of Wight, if it's not too dear. Fraid you'll have to do without Vera, Chuck, and Dave.

Adulio said...

God bless our Pope and protest him from all his enemies

Pablo the Mexican said...

A home does not rest upon the ground.

It rest upon a woman.

Saint Mary Magdalene Church, your home, has the greatest of women...

The Dispenser of Divine Graces, she who forms Priests in the image of her Son, will give you the sight and the strength for you Holy Ministry, all the days of your life.

Merry Christmas.

Feliz Navidad, Padre.

Viva Cristo Rey!

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