A Note on Celibacy

            Yesterday at the local bakery, while waiting for a loaf of baguette, a woman approached me and asked where my wife was. She meant well and was rather flustered, perhaps overly concerned with my apparent loneliness. Very quietly, I told her “We clergymen don’t take wives. I am celibate.” My verbiage left this woman rather confused! Poor dear, scratching at her hair, she answered, “So then, what do you celebrate?”

              Since my baguette was taking longer than I expected, I figured to explain: “No madam, I said celibate, it means that someone does not marry and chooses to remain chaste for their lifetime.” At last, she understood. In horror, the poor dear cried out, “Oh, how unfortunate!”

          After I received my baguette, while walking home, I realized that this woman’s attitude resembled most everyone else’s. And when dinner was finished, I decided to write something on this matter so others may be taught:

           Do we not hear the Gospel and how Jesus passed the devious tests of the Pharisees? While the Jews concerned themselves with earthly things, who shall earn the wife of many deceased husbands, Our Lord drew towards heavenly matters: “For when they shall rise again from the dead, they shall neither marry, nor be married, but are as the angels in heaven (1)”.  He does speak here of earthly unions, saying death shall dissolve the marriage bond… yet this does not dissolve the sanctity of marriage but beholds a new reality. In eternity, our human souls become espoused to none but the Lord God who crafted them.  From His time in Eden, God had crafted holy matrimony for the blessing of humanity made in His image. He had sealed the marital bond with His charity and bestowed the gift of family, generations beyond, who will glorify His name.

                Yet despite this great good, and let us declare it such great good, not all need belong to a husband or wife in this earthly stay. Hear the apostle: “The married man is anxious with pleasing his wife while a virgin is anxious with pleasing the Lord.” Think ye of such holy examples who undertook this: Mary Magdala who fled from impurity, John the Beloved, virgin and celibate, Joseph, Father of Christ, who lived out of godly fear, in marital continence. John the Messiah’s Forerunner and the prophet Jeremiah also pledged their flesh to God. This, the burnt-offering of the Levites prefigures: all is consumed, the whole body turned to ashes. Thus, Lord Jesus hath said: “He who loses his life shall gain life.” Many deem it gravest misfortune to be made a eunuch or mutilated, yet the one who who injures self for sake of the Kingdom is instead blessed, called “As the angels in heaven.”

                May we say, “He that can take, let him take it (2).” True oblation is never forced. Duty cannot selflessly give, thus the error of the Pharisees who bound up sacrifice with law.  The cross of Christ was never duty, no, Calvary’s offering was always love. Likewise, the man who forgoes marriage and creation of young does so from love. With a burning passion, he lays himself on the altar of chastity, ever hoping to consummate that supernatural union in heaven. In heaven, no marriage is known beside that with the Lord. A consecrated soul alone becomes as the bride of Solomon, choice, whitened, a heady wine, a hidden chord of sublime music, clad in gold, sweet as the lily, fair like the dove. Know, every brother, who delights in psalms rather than children’s’ laughter, is full of God’s delight. Know, every sister who gives not suck, goes out weeping yet returneth rejoicing, singing songs of joy. Know, every father who belongs to none, raises up by word of the Gospel, numberless descendants!

Blessed are the barren trees of Our Lord’s garden! By bowing down, they shed good seed and tend the saplings. They go to the sheep, made food for life anew. By restraining the flesh, they show us the angels. They mirror eternity, forever beloved and wedded to God, melded like wax beneath a burning flame, to Love Itself.

(1)    Mark 12:25

(2)    Matthew 19:12

Story-time with Cardinal Fratelli, part 3

“Tell us another, Good Eminenza!” cried little Paolo.

His sweet, babyish eyes sparkled with delight. Patting Paolo’s messy brown hair, Cardinal Fratelli laughed.

“This next tale is about a donkey…”

“Come on,” Antonio suddenly blurted out, “A donkey? How boring and stupid!”

The cardinal frowned for a moment- then he grinned and chuckled to himself.

“Perhaps Antonio, you can learn from this story…”

Antonio kept silent, not necessarily feeling rebuked but curious as to how a story about a donkey can be anything exciting. As the priest-attendant sighed tiredly and leaned upon the stone railing nearby, Cardinal Fratelli began:

“A long time ago, in a distant desert land, there lived a donkey. His fur was grey, his eyes big and brown and his hooves wide like dishes. He lived on a farm with other animals: cock, ox and horse. They laughed at the donkey and mocked him.

“I wake our master in the morn so he may plant the crops we eat,” said cock.

“I pull the plow so that the crops planted may grow and we can eat,” said ox.

“I carry our master to the market so he may sell the crops and we can have more to eat,” said horse.

Thus, the donkey tried to wake their master at morning but he made an awful braying noise. He tried pulling the plow but it fell loose on his narrow shoulders and would not move. He tried to carry their master but horse pushed him aside. “I am useless, mean and ugly,” said the donkey, “I will run away.”

The very next day, the master left for a journey. He brought with him cock and ox. He rode off on horse, leaving the donkey alone, tied to a fence. Sadly, the donkey hung his head. “Now I shall run away” he said.

However, just as the donkey began chewing through his rope, some strange man came forth and untied him. “Just as well” said the donkey, “If I am stolen and killed so be it…” Suddenly, another man in a red cloak approached. The donkey felt peace. With kind eyes, he beheld the donkey, patted his mane and whispered. Then in one quick leap, he mounted. The donkey had never been ridden before, that was horse’s duty, yet he easily supported this man’s weight. Great noise arose as the donkey was urged forth. Many people appeared in the streets. At once, the donkey raised his head. Crowds of men women and children clamored round, hailing this man: this seeming prince who had borrowed him. Crying out: “Hosanna to the Son of David!” they strewed palm branches about and laid down their cloaks.

The donkey’s master suddenly arrived- along with cock, ox and horse. They halted before him. Yes, his former tormenters gazed in amazement, for the one deemed useless now carried a King. The one not good enough for the master was now goodly for a Lord. The one, ugly and mean, was now a bringer of beauty, nobility and Truth. Ignored, mocked and esteemed not, this lowly donkey bore aloft on his back, the very Son of God, the exalted King of all Kings and Lord of all Lords, Jesus Christ!”

Easter Sermon

What of Christ’s little flock here on earth? What of the people who profess the resurrection but act as if they are dying? Those who have lost faith, those who doubt God, who have given into corruption, wickedness and sin? Surely they are part of the Church much as you or I? Was not Judas one of the Twelve? It becomes easy to despair when pondering the faults, vices, jealousies and strivings that the Church has experienced in her membership of near two-thousand years. At times, the Church certainly appeared dead on the outside, sunken and sallow like a dry tree. Yet one would be greatly amiss and rather ignorant of heavenly things if he truly deemed the Church of God to be dead.

Do we not know, where sin abounded, grace did more abound. (1) Do we know that Christ, when we were weak, died for the ungodly??  Yes, He purchased the Church- and all souls in it, by his own blood. He lay down his life for it while ever-knowing betrayals, divisions, quarrels and scandals would wait! The saint and the Pharisee both He loves… both have their home within His Church. And during starkest times, when all hope seemed lost, did not the Lord cleanse his Church, pull her from the ashes and give life anew? Not by man’s prowess, has the Church endured alongside Christ, but by his Holy Spirit. Just as Christ Jesus was raised not of his own power but that of his Father whom He glorified, the Church is raised from Christ, whom she betrothed. From the cross, Our Lord declared: “It is consummated” This wedding, born of blood, had been destined to wear a crown of glorious resurrection. Whoever lives in the Lord and dies in the Lord shall be raised in the Lord.

The apostle Paul, no stranger to religious evils, speaks for the Church when he says: And I live, now not I; but Christ liveth in me. And that I live now in the flesh: I live in the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and delivered himself for me. (2) The force that steadies a reeling, sinful church also uplifts mortal, sinful men. Sin sets its ugly countenance before us all. The world- and the Church shall always confront this grim face of evil until everything sees final consummation, when Christ comes with glory to crush death beneath his heel once and for ever. What is this hallowed feast about? Why do we come forward to Easter after an arduous, long Lent?

Because He is risen! The once beaten and bruised Savior, bloodied beyond recognition, had died. In a moment, darkness celebrates- but the victory proves short. He that embraced death’s cold arms now marches triumphant from the grave. From His wounds pour a river of strength, from his death flows a fountain of life. If we expect not to undergo the same, our faith is in vain. Because of the resurrection, we can stand fearless before death and evil. Because of the resurrection, we can sing hymns in the darkest pit. Because of this, we march forth, staggering- yet whole, wounded- but not conquered, weeping- yet singing, “alleluia” that ancient, Paschal refrain.  Indeed, among many things, did Christ Jesus tell us: “Be you of good cheer for I have overcome the world.”

1)     Romans 5:20

2)     Galatians 2:20

Sermon for Palm Sunday

     “Tell ye the daughter of Sion: Behold thy king cometh to thee… Rejoice greatly, O Daughter of Zion! Shout, Daughter of Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and having salvation ” Long have we awaited the day, verily have the prophets yearned: when we would hear these words- Your King comes to you, righteous and having salvation. This King is different from the rest, coming on a humble ass but bringing salvation! Salvation!

      Who brings salvation but God? Jesus the Son Of  God- True God, comes himself to deliver his people, to fulfill the Scriptures. Yet, we know that also to fulfill the Word of God which the prophets spoke, he must suffer and die. Just as the Savior of mankind arrives humbly arrayed, he dies in abject humility. He rules from the throne of the cross, paying our ransom in his blood. His Kingdom is one in which glory is purchased by suffering. It is not easy…truly he said: If you do not take up your cross, you are not worthy to follow after me. He not only saves us but calls us to be more than passive spectators. Thus, we are invited to place ourselves into the great "passion play" of today's Gospel. We are invited to walk there with the Lord who endures mockery and abuse. His Kingdom is not of this world, it is above this world and yet He calls even those who mock and hate Him into it. We, His children, most of all, who love Him, should take heed.

       We who are unworthy, we who are small, we all have place in his coming into kingship as did the lowly ass. How he beckons each one of us! Jesus speaks upon this day saying: Come forth and bear Zion’s King!”

Tea with Cardinal Fratellli, # 10

From Lucio Fontani,

 “Eminenza, I have been thinking I might want to become a priest someday. What should I do?”

Dear, Lucio Fontani,

 This is wonderful news!! There is no moment more beautiful than when a young man decides to dedicate his life to God!

However, before deciding you might become a priest, ponder whether you enjoy being anonymous, overworked, lonely, misunderstood, ordered around, pushed aside, falsely flattered, and disregarded… and did I mention being overworked? If you find all of these things enjoyable, priesthood may be the correct vocation for you.

And my son, while you do think of these things and try to retain goodly composure and sanity, you will be in my prayers.

 Yours In Christ,

Angelo Cardinal Fratelli

Tea with Cardinal Fratelli, # 6

From: Jaques

“Help me Your Eminence… I think I may be addicted to milk!”

Dear Jaques,

If you find yourself reaching from the milk-jug before noon and having to warm up a glass before you fall asleep every night, there may be a problem. Yes, you may desire it with your pasta and think its creamy sweetness with a plate of cookies will solve your problems- but any addiction can be harmful. I know from my childhood that milk can make you fat and goofy. Yes, I am embarrassed to admit I was a rather pudgy youth because of my indulgence in milk… Anyway this is about you-not me.

 In the case you are truly addicted and feel that dairy is taking over your life, cut yourself off from milk and all milk-products and do penance!

In Christ,

Angelo Cardinal Fratelli

A Sermon on Modesty

Preparing for Mass is a wonderful thing, full of anticipation. I look forward to walking beneath dawn’s pinkish light, feeling the chill morning air and hearing bells announce the beginning of yet another day. However, some things I do not look forward to. There comes a time when the teacher must rebuke, when the shepherd must goad his sheep…better now than too late it seems.

When I arrive, rapt in silent reverence to pray the holy liturgy, I notice some others do not share the same view. Some talk loudly on the steps, waiting till the last minute to come worship, others wander the transept as if having nothing else to do, and yet others arrive at holy Mass dressed more fitly for the taverns!

Holy as I strive to be, I am still a man and not immune to carnal distraction. I will without fail notice when a woman approaches with her shoulders and neck exposed. At times, I feel glad that I face away during the most-holy consecration, that I cannot see bands of pale flesh when my mind should be on hallowed things! Shame on you who consider not clothing your daughters in modesty! And shame too, on you young men who present yourselves with wrinkled cuffs, messed hair, smelling of cigar smoke! It is not my duty to lay your dress out for you but if it were, I would teach a lesson in appropriate reverence!

Elder ladies, I look upon you with dignity and respect. Your hair, greyed with wisdom, is a token for us all. But, some of you too have acted shamefully, gathering before the sanctuary after Mass to chatter and improvise daily plans. Have you no parlor or den to gather in? The sacred place isn’t for gathering but for adoration. You rich, you sneer at the poor who behave crudely then proceed to discuss hunting and cards in front of the altar rail! Go elsewhere with it all!

Oh you florists and craftsmen, I admire your works but please do not sell them here! You eloquent speakers and idealists are dear to my heart but find a more suitable place to reveal your dreams. You gentlemen, who wear long coats, feathered hats and medals, can you cross the threshold before donning this finery?

Thus it is written: “You shall worship God with reverence and godly fear for he is a consuming fire.” Even Moses, the greatest forefather, needed to remove his shoes when approaching hallowed ground.

When you gather, be ever mindful that this place is unearthly, be mindful of the lamp of God’s presence, keep prayerful; stay silent. Sing with the harp of your voices at the entering antiphon, speak solely pure words here and only embrace your neighbor at the sign of peace.

 “We will go into his tabernacle: We will adore in the place where his feet stood.” (Psalm 132:7) Amen.

The Cardinal and the Constable, ch 8-9

Chapter 8.

            Francine’s New Interest.

            The next morning, grey clouds blocked sunlight. During Mass, it was dark inside the cathedral. However, some dawn light peeked through enough so that Fratelli could see the figures of his aunt Francine, Dina and Jack’s faint shadow seated near the back. Gianni stood beside Fratelli, holding a candle as he read the Scriptures. When Mass ended and Fratelli processed towards of the cathedral door, he shortly glanced towards Jack, wondering why he’d sat so far away.

            He stood, folding his bishop’s miter beneath his arm, waiting for Jack to finally appear. He suddenly pulled his friend aside and asked,
            “Why didn’t you sit closer?”

            “I like to observe from a distance.”

            “You seem detached. Was my homily unpleasant?”

            “No, you preached fine.”

            Fratelli didn’t ask anything else though he felt curious as to his friend’s seeming aloofness. He granted Jack a farewell and rushed off.

            Moreso, during breakfast, Jack wasn’t there. Seeing Fratelli eating alone, Gianni scurried in and plopped next to him. The boy grabbed a breadstick and while munching, he watched the cardinal intently. Fratelli didn’t acknowledge him.

            “Your friend is ignoring you, isn’t he?” the boy mumbled.

            “Gianni, please mind your own affairs…”

All afternoon, Fratelli stayed in his office, working, reading, drinking hot tea and cold water. He drew documents for several churches throughout Lucca then began composing a letter to Adreo. Leaning over the desk, he wondered what he could write to console the imprisoned priest.

            A knock at the door disrupted his thoughts. He turned and saw Dina.

            “Did you have a meeting with an artist by the name of Gino Siglio?” she asked.

            “Oh yes,” Fratelli responded, tiredly rubbing his face, “I forgot. Tell him I will be there shortly.”

            Hesitant, he put the pen down. His letter to Adreo would wait.

            Coming into the parlor, he expected to see Gino standing alone, perhaps carrying a bag of paints or supplies, what he didn’t expect is Francine to be there with him.

            “Hello Angelo,” she said sweetly.

            “Don’t call me that,” Fratelli snapped.

            “I apologize if this has caused inconvenience, Your Eminence,” Gino then said, “Your aunt Francine was walking the same way as I and I invited her to join me… She really is wonderful company.”

            The cardinal arched his eyebrows wondering if they knew the same person. Francine grinned somewhat. After she sat down, Gino addressed him:

            “I am honored to be commissioned by you, Most Reverend Lord Cardinal.”

            Fratelli’s brows arched again. That was a title he seldom heard! He tried not to cringe from the obvious flattery.

            Gino continued, “Whatever you would like, I’ll paint it!”

            “I would like a Biblical scene…” Fratelli mused aloud, “Maybe the Holy Family: with Mary and Joseph and the little Jesus… Do include roses like in your angel painting- white or pink but not red. I think it will look splendid right here in the parlor.”

            “It surely will!” Gino interjected.

            Francine smiled, standing by Gino’s side, showing a set of perfect, white teeth.

            “Everything he touches just becomes so beautiful…” she sighed.

            After agreeing on what should be done and for what price, Fratelli and Gino excused themselves to walk in the garden. Because of blanketing clouds, summer sun didn’t blaze so harshly upon them. The flowers stretched petals wide into the sky, grass and bushes thrived glistening and green. Gino stopped adoring the pristine, white roses.

            “How nicely these are kept, Your Eminence!”

            Fratelli couldn’t accept credit for the roses. Last year, Dina had hired a gardener, much to his chagrin. Now, he seldom, if ever spent time working here. While they walked, he noticed how greatly, Gino’s fine, colorful garb blended with the garden blooms. He strutted boldly, almost like a peacock in resplendent green, black and gold. Fratelli silently hoped the man’s ego didn’t compromise his work.

            They returned inside and drank chilled wine. Francine of course, brought Gino his glass. They whispered something Fratelli could not hear and finally Gino asked,

            “Do you mind, Your Eminence, if I take your lovely aunt out to dinner?”

            “Of course not,” Fratelli said flatly, though he suppressed a mild shudder at hearing the words “lovely” and “aunt” right next to eachother.

            In fact, he hoped the two would leave soon.

           

            ~ ~ ~

            At last, Fratelli was by himself. He crept into his office, sat and began thinking of how he should write Adreo. He would include a blessing certainly- and goodly hopes for his release. Soon as Fratelli touched the pen onto the paper, someone appeared in the doorway.

            “What now?” the cardinal growled.

            Ernesto leaned against the wall and announced, “I have great news: This morning, during our investigation, we concluded that after the stabbing occurred, the killer pushed Diego Pollini from behind, off the clock-tower’s third or second floor. We don’t believe Adreo could have been exactly where we found him… if he himself had done it…so he’s been released.”

            Fratelli leapt from his chair with joy. He almost embraced Ernesto but held back.

            “Oh praise God!” Fratelli shouted.

            “Now, calm down Your Eminence,” Ernesto said, “He is still suspicious, after all we can’t ignore the idea he might be an accomplice, however, there is no further need to hold him at this point.”

            “Where is he?”

            “He’ll be returned here tonight.”

            “Thanks be to God!”

            The cardinal almost danced with frenzied joy. Ernesto laid a hand on his shoulder saying, “Your Eminence…”

            Fratelli disregarded him, now running to the window and peering outside like an excited child.

            “Your Eminence!”

            Suddenly jolted, Fratelli paused and sheepishly toyed with his ring.

            “There’s no need to yell, I’m right here.”

            Ernesto sighed. He waited a moment then continued:

            “We also can’t rule out the fact that Adreo knows several things and therefore…the killer may come looking for him.”

            “For him?”

            “Yes, for him…”

            “Oh no!” Fratelli cried, “What are we going to do?”

            “Let’s think of something?” Ernesto replied, his voice calm and assuring.

            “You mean us- together?”

            “Why not?”

Chapter 9.

            The Stakeout.

           

            The parlor clock ticked monotonous as minutes dragged by. Dina brought a pot of tea as Ernesto and Fratelli sat across from each other, thinking… quietly brooding.

            Ernesto sat up then spoke:

            “I know of a place where many people go daily, from all over Lucca. A great place for listening- and watching.”

            “And where is that?” asked Fratelli who neatly lifted the hem of his scarlet cassock and removed his house-slippers. Somehow, being comfortable helped him think. Ernesto glanced at him and answered:

            “The cathedral.”

            “But Ernesto, that is the house of God!”

            “It is also the largest center of the community, like the piazza- but with more closed spaces and whispering.”

            “I don’t like it…”

            “Angelo- Your Eminence, don’t you want to catch this murderer? He could be lurking about waiting for the chance to get rid of Adreo- or someone else.”

            “Yes, I do wish to help. So I suppose you will bring all your officers into the cathedral, running amuck, looking for a killer…and ruining the sacred silence.”

            “No, no, it won’t be like that,” Ernesto laughed, “This will be a stakeout: where I will watch carefully and anonymously.”

            Fratelli now laughed, “You are the constable and the cardinal’s brother nonetheless- hardly anonymous.”

            “That’s why I need a disguise of sorts. I’d have to be someone you would expect to be lingering around the cathedral for long hours- maybe something clerical?”

            Taken aback, Fratelli exclaimed:

            “Posing as a clergyman? I cannot condone that!”

            He pondered to himself, eyes squinted from the effort, his forehead comically wrinkled, then added,

            “However, I do have an old monk’s habit that might just fit you…”

            Ernesto nodded. It was perfect.

            Fratelli donned his slippers, strode upstairs, fetched the worn, white-wool habit and brought it down. Ernesto threw the habit over his head, wrestling to straighten the baggy cloth but it fit perfectly. Fratelli stepped back and snickered. His brother looked rather goofy as a monk. Ernesto pulled the hood over his head, folded his hands as in prayer and marched out of the room.

            “Yes you look very anonymous and religious,” Fratelli remarked stepping behind him.

            Leisurely, they walked outside, around the gardens and rested upon the stone fountain’s edge. Four or so ducks flew overhead. They both sighed, breathing in fresh air. Eventually, Fratelli spoke,

            “Ernesto shouldn’t any believable monk speak good Latin?’

            “Yes, why didn’t I think of that! Your Eminence, teach me some Latin prayers.”

            Putting a hand on his chin, Fratelli thought a minute then uttered:

            “Deus in adjutorium meum intende. (1)”

            “What?”

            Fratelli laughed then repeated it slower.

            “I can’t get all that,” Ernesto said, feeling muddled.

            “De-us  in  ad-yu-to-rium,  me-um  in-tende”

            Lifting a hand in the air with precision, Ernesto slowly annunciated:

“De-us  in  ad-yu-to-rium..  me-um  in-tende…”

“Yes, that is perfect!” Fratelli said, smiling widely.

He watched as the ducks returned and landed softly in the fountain’s basin. They squawked loudly and floated in circles. It seemed a waste not to enjoy this fine, summer day.

Noticing evening shadows lengthen, Ernesto stood.

“I should be going now,” he said, “You will know where to find me- although don’t treat me like Ernesto- in fact, don’t treat me like anybody…”

“I know, I know…” Fratelli replied, waving his hand.

Ernesto departed, walking towards the looming cathedral just as Father Adreo came into the yard. Fratelli instantly unseated and approached him. In rapt gesture, the priest knelt down, took Fratelli’s hand and after kissing his ring, leaned his face against it and said, “I am so heartily sorry…I will never do anything so foolish or suspicious again!”

“Get up Adreo,” Fratelli whispered, shaken with sympathy, “You are safe here, safe in the shelter of the Lord.”

~ ~ ~

Sun set behind the hills. Within the spacious, shadowy cathedral, Father Rodrigo strolled while Gianni trailed behind him, lighting candles against encroaching dark. They wordlessly kneeled before the high-altar, mouthed some inaudible prayer and then left.

Ernesto observed them and stayed motionless until he had to scratch his nose. Suddenly two people passed and instinctually, he crossed himself blurting out: “Deus in ad-yu-to-rium, meum in-tende!”

He then made a triple cross, as Catholics did before the reading of the Gospel: one cross over his forehead, one over his mouth and another over his chest. He looked very pious indeed. Now, he listened as voices conversed. The first, a female voice said:

“It’s very bold, you bringing me here.”

It was Francine.

The other, a hearty male voice; that he recognized as Gino Siglio’s, replied, “Why do you say so?”

“Because, if His Eminence finds us dallying and flirting here, he will kill you!”

“Be assured, my lady, that I’m not afraid of anything- not a thing.”

She laughed. He lightly kissed her check, said goodnight then swiftly walked back. Ernesto hunched over, looking as diminutive as possible. No one noticed him there at all. 

Interview with Cardinal Fratelli, Part III

    

“When were you made a cardinal?”

"In the summer of 1829.”

      

“Why didn’t you want to be a cardinal?”

      

“I felt unworthy of such an office nor did I believe I could bear it.”

      

“But you did well, didn’t you?”        

      

“Yes, moving into the cathedral was easy, although the priests had to get used to having such a young bishop. I seemed isolated, being an object of so much empty flattery. But, in a year, all was settled. I performed my duties well and even saw fit to chastise Lamberto II, who was son of the Duke of Tuscany; a man known for cruelty and revelry. I had the respect of my congregation and not to mention Francine, who soon reconciled with me.”

      

“Speaking of reunions, you also met back up with Michele. I heard she gave you a lot of unwanted attention!”

      

“Indeed. The dear girl hadn’t married yet and was very lonely. I think she wanted friendship most of all.”

      

“Was there any temptation?”

      

“Oh, I don’t want answer that.”

      

“Come on!”

      

“Well, she certainly didn’t grow any less lovely. I simply restrained my feelings, prayed about this matter and promised to find a husband for her.”

      

“Ernesto, right?”

      

“Yes. It seems the two met before I could make any plans on it. God brought them together without my help- as if to humble me.”

      

“How did you feel when you discovered Ernesto was your brother?”

     

“At first, I could not believe it but then I simply knew. I sorely wished my parents told me they had another son before they’d wed but this apparently was a family secret not even Francine knew about. When I met Ernesto, I noticed we were very much alike, strong-willed, God-fearing…”

      

“And handsome?”

      

“That too.”

     

“What is your favorite thing about being a cardinal”

“I enjoy being active in the community and visiting the churches I oversee. They are always glad to welcome me. There are many charities I support, including an orphanage and school. Going there and seeing the children, makes me happy, to know that God’s work is being done makes me feel very glad. And as you know, I take my duty as a preacher seriously. Sometimes I must be patient in my teaching, watching progress little by little… and this I enjoy also.”

      

“What is the hardest part of your duties as a cardinal?”

      

“I’d have to say that the paperwork is especially cumbersome. Even though I have a secretary to help, I have to look over so many papers, books and documents. It becomes wearying.”

“Do you get vacation time?”

“Not really. The last time I took a vacation, I went to Pisa and it was quite nice but there were several mishaps- one involving gelato…In the end, I felt relieved to be home.”

“It seems you really are set in your daily life.”

“Oh yes, I am. I say Mass every morning except for two days when I celebrate privately in the afternoon. I like these private Masses because the Lord seems to draw closer in the moments of silence. However, I know He is always there watching me- even when I trip in the hallway. I take frequent naps to stay energetic. Dina, my housekeeper, makes wonderful meals. I really can’t ask for more.”