Meryl Streep: A Great Actress

Dear Blog Visitors:

Whenever I reflect on my past experiences and people I have met, I often think about the evening I met Meryl Streep, which occurred several years ago. The occasion was her being honored at the George Eastman House in Rochester. I had the honor of asking her the first question of the evening, whereby I inquired about her experience of working with Clint Eastwood (my favorite actor and director) on 'Bridges of Madison County.' She liked the manner in which Clint shot scenes quickly, whereby he rarely asked to do anything over-and-over again, which has been the case with some directors Meryl has worked with.

One of the many things my wife share in common is our love for Meryl Streep. We have seen all her films, some of which we have seen several times. We also admire her for her ability to balance her family life with her amazing career as an actress.

I am delighted that Meryl is receiving one of the Kennedy Center honors this year. It was also a delight for me to see her featured on last night's edition of '60 Minutes.'

In tribute to the great Meryl Streep, I produced the video that appears above.

Peace to all,
Ray

'Hallelujah Chorus' Sing-a-long

Dear Blog Visitors:

In addition to the religious significance of Christmas, I also love the traditional music of the season. Although I have ventured into many areas throughout my life, I am often drawn back to my original ambition, which was to become a symphony orchestra conductor. Despite the fact this ambition never materialized, I am nevertheless thankful for the musical education I received in high school and as an undergraduate student at the Eastman School of Music.

As part of my musical training, I had an opportunity on several occasions to conduct Handel's 'Hallelujah Chorus' from 'The Messiah.' As I reflected back, I thought it might be interesting to produce a video in which I conduct the 'Hallelujah Chorus' facing the camera, in such a way that would invite viewers who know individual choral parts to join in the singing. So, with appreciation for all the musical instructors who were part of my life, I offer this video as a thank-you.

Peace to all,
Ray

New Book: 'Women Deacons: Past, Present, Future'

Dear Blog Visitors:

I always take notice when Phyllis Zagano comes out with a new publication. She is one of our country's best scholars on the historical issue of women deacons in the Roman Catholic Church.

I had the privilege of meeting Phyllis several years ago at a conference, and she and I have corresponded on a few occasions since then.

I am very excited about the latest book authored by Phyllis and her two co-authors, Gary Macy and William T. Ditewig, entitled 'Women Deacons: Past, Present, Future.'

Through meticulous scholarship, Phyllis Zagano has been a long-time advocate for women deacons. As her research bears out, women deacons had a long history in the church, and it is encouraging that a few members of the hierarchy of the Roman Catholic Church have been willing to look at her research on this important matter.

In an attempt to get bishops to read 'Women Deacons: Past, Present Future,' there is a 'Books to Bishops' campaign underway. Paulist Press will send a copy of this book if contributors send Phyllis Zagano a check for $10.00 per bishop. Phyllis in turn will send checks and individual letters naming donors to Paulist Press, which adds a book order form for more and sends each bishop a copy of the book. Checks may be sent to Phyllis at her office: Phyllis Zagano, Religion-104 Heger Hall, 115 Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY 10549.

Let's hope that U.S. bishops are persuaded by the above mentioned book.

Peace to all,
Ray

Trying to Balance A Relgious & Secular Christmas Season

Dear Blog Visitors:

I hope all of you had a wonderful Thanksgiving celebration. Although it is a national secular holiday, Thanksgiving has nevertheless taken on religious themes as the history of our country evolved. So, it is no surprise that churches and synagogues are filled each year prior to our holiday feasts.

Although the Christmas season, inclusive of the long period of Advent, is religious at its heart, it has also encompassed much in the way of secular surroundings. For example, what is known as 'Black Friday' has become the annual secular announcement that Christmas has unofficialy arrived, although December 25 is on the distant horizon.

The Christmas season has indeed incorporated both the religious and secular spheres. I tried to highlight this fact with the two photos I have posted above. Despite my light-hearted approach, I will pray that the periods of Advent and Christmas are meaningful for all of you. I also want to wish my Jewish friends and relatives the best of the Hanukkah season.

Peace to all,
Ray

Thanksgiving Greetings to All

Dear Blog Visitors:

It has been a while since my last blog post. So, I thought I would take this opportunity to wish all of you the very best of the Thanksgiving holiday.

I have occasionally mentioned my former elementary and high school classmates who continue to be my friends today. It is always a wonderful occasion to gather with them, and this month provided another such opportunity. So, I thought I would offer a message of thanks to them as part of this blog post.

In addition to giving thanks to my friends and family members, past and present, I also want to thank all the couples who have asked me to be the officiant at their weddings. They have enriched my life in many ways, and it continues to be a privilege and honor for me to be part of their sacred journey into marriage.

I fully realize that Thanksgiving is not always a joyous occasion, especially when there is so much unemployment, poverty, divisiveness and death in our midsts. However, as we gather for our holiday meals, an opportunity is presented for prayer and gratitude for all the good things that have penetrated our lives in the midst of hardships.

As part of this blog post, I thought I would share the two photos above, which will hopefully bring you either a smile or a groan.

My very best to you always,
Ray

Latest Statistics Amongst American Catholics

Dear Blog Visitors:

A number of friends have asked me if I have given up my efforts at reforming the Roman Catholic Church. This question arose out of the fact that my blog postings in recent months, in addition to my Facebook and Google+ postings, have focused on other areas of interest.

It continues to be my hope that a few reform initiatives will find success in Roman Catholicism. However, as I grow older, I find that I achieve great joy by engaging in my ministries quietly, in addition to filling time with some of my life-long passions, such as classical music, photography, movies, plays, free-lance writing, etc.

I have not lost interest in reforming the Catholic Church. However, I have come to realize that the next generation needs to pick up the ball and decide what kind of church it wants. I will say, however, that I am encouraged by the latest statistics concerning American Catholics. The Vatican, at some point in the near future, will need to deal with declining Mass attendance, in addition to dealing proactively with the priesthood shortage. According to the latest statistics, 86% of American Catholics support the inclusion of married priests. Correspondingly, the Vatican will need to decide if mandatory celibacy makes sense in today's climate. My hope is that reality will take hold and that the next generation will finally persuade the powers-that-be that optional celibacy is the way to go.

I continue to thoroughly enjoy my life of active retirement, which has allowed me to wear many hats. One of these hats is that of a married priest, whereby I avail myself as an officiant for weddings, baptisms and funerals. While the work of church of church reform has taken a back seat recently, I still take a keen interest in the future direction of Roman Catholicism.

Peace to all,
Ray

A Salute to Amy Beach

Dear Blog Visitors:

If you have followed my occasional commentaries related to classical music, you are aware that I was very sad when Christopher Seaman announced he was stepping down as music director of the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. However, I was delighted when it was announced he would be named conductor laureate of the RPO, which means he will return to guest-conduct the orchestra once per year.

I attended the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra's season-opener last night, with its new maestro, Arild Remmereit, at the podium. The combination of the concert and pre-concert chat gave the audience added confidence that the RPO is in good hands with Remmereit.

I applaud Maestro Remmereit for his decision to feature women composers as part of this season's repertoire. He explained this as a risky decision, for this has never been done in the RPO's long history. If last night's concert was any indication, Remmereit's decision has strong approval from Rochester's concert-attending community.

Last night's featured woman composer was Amy Beach (1867-1944). While she received much notoriety as a musical genious during her lifetime, as both a concert pianist and composer, her works seemed to fade into obscurity following her death. Sadly, this was the case for many women in the classical music field, especially in the area of composition. It is the hope of Arid Remmereit that by programming her Symphony #2 as part of last night's concert, audiences will aid the effort toward restoring Amy Beach's reputation as a first-class composer. The audience's response to the symphony was a well-deserved standing ovation.

I have included below a photo of the late Amy Beach. May she rest in peace, knowing that Maestro Arild Remmereit has resurrected her Symphony #2 and that last night's audience gave it an overwhelming vote of approval.

Peace to all,
Ray

A Terrific Rochester Radio Reunion

Dear Blog Visitors:

Last night proved to be very nostalgic for me, in that I attended the Rochester Radio Reunion. It gave me an opportunity to chat with persons I knew from the 1970s, when I was known as 'The Wizard of Pun' on radio station WAXC.

Rochester radio has a very long history, so I was deeply moved by the attendance at last night's memorable event. I want to thank all who worked very hard at organizing the reunion. By all accounts, it was a huge success.

I was touched by the fact that many radio personalities I listened to back in the 1950s are alive and well, and were in attendance at the reunion. The audience was inclusive of announcers from the 1950s to the present era. Videos were made by those in various parts of the country who could not attend, whereby we had an opportunity to see their greetings on a big screen. In addition, a wonderful slide show was presented to honor radio personalities who have died.

Don Alhart, emcee for the event, did a terrific job keeping all the elements of the event together.

I have included a few photos I took last night. In order: 1.) Mike Kiley and me; 2.) Bob Scott and me; 3.) Ferdinand Jay Smith and me; 4.) Marc Cronin and me; 5.) Larry White; 6.) Rich Funke; 7.) Don Alhart; 8.) Elaine Smith (wife of Ferdinand Jay Smith), Me, Ferdinand Jay Smith, Brenda Grosswirth (my wife).

Peace to all,
Ray

A Video to Commemorate the 10th Anniversary of 9/11

Dear Blog Visitors:

During the past few days, I have tried to capture images with my camera that assist in the reflection of the tragedy that occurred ten years ago.

In the video above, I have offered a reflection that coincides with the images you will see.

I want to thank the Rochester Museum and Science Center for allowing me to take photographs at the 9/11 exhibit they are currently featuring. I used some images I captured at the exhibit, in addition to photos I took at a flag display at Ontario Beach Park, as well as pictures that recall what we saw on our TV screens in 2001.

Let us continue to pray for peace in our world.

God bless all of you,
Ray

343 Flags for 343 Fallen Firefighters

Dear Blog Visitors:

I got up extra early today, in the hopes of spending some quiet time at Ontario Beach Park in Rochester, New York. What I didn't expect was having the entire park to myself, which is exactly what happened.

I have found that although the experience of being close to God can indeed occur in the midst of a faith community, I often find my prayer life is enhanced when I am alone in a nature setting. While I may pray with a community to commemorate the 10th anniversary of 9/11, I don't think this morning's experience can be replicated, in terms of feeling the presence of God in a quiet place.

The primary purpose of my going to Ontario Beach Park this morning was to see the displayed 343 flags, in honor of the 343 firefighters who perished in the twin towers ten years ago. It was a very powerful experience for me to be alone amongst the flags and the surrounding water of Lake Ontario and a dramatic gray sky.

I have posted a few photos from this morning's spiritual experience.

Peace to all,
Ray

Commemorating the 10th Anniversary of 9/11

Dear Blog Visitors:

Like many persons around the world, I will be engaged in much reflection on September 11, ten years following events we will never forget.

At a theological level, I continue to believe that God chose to create us with free will. This free will comes with a price; we can choose good or evil during the course of our daily lives.

A few individuals made an evil choice on September 11, 2001 - a decision that left death and destruction in its path. However, despite the huge loss of life, I like to feel that forces of good ultimately triumphed. Losses would have been far greater, had it not been for the courageous first-responders who risked their own lives so that others might live.

As I thought back to images that remain fresh in my mind, I tried to recreate my activities of September 11 & 12, 2001 via three photos. Like many around the world, I was glued to my TV set during the first anxious moments of 9/11,as depicted in photo #1. In the second photo, I recall watching the late Peter Jennings, as he related the facts as they became available. (Mr. Jennings was later praised by many for maintaining a sense of calm, as details of unfolding events remained uncertain.) In the third photo, I am reading the local headlines of September 12, 2001, trying to piece together any new information that was available.

I am hoping that the Democratic and Republican parties will put politics on hold during the commemoration of 9/11. This solemn day should instead be a day of reflection and prayer. Although friction and divisions continue to dot the landscapes of our world, I will nevertheless continue to pray for the day when all human beings learn how to live in harmony.

Peace to all,
Ray

Motion Picture Studio for Rochester

Dear Blog Visitors:

I truly believe the climate is ripe for a major motion picture studio to consider locating some of its operations in Rochester, New York. I first began promoting this idea around thirty years ago via an editorial piece I wrote for a local newspaper. However, in consideration of the fact that Rochester is in great need of an economic boost, and there is plenty of open space for a major enterprise, I feel it is a good time to revisit my proposal of thirty years ago.

If you have been following Rochester's recent economic news, you are aware of the Paetec fiasco. Just when it seemed Paetec was going to build its new headquarters in downtown Rochester, Windstream announced it was purchasing Paetec. So, at least as it stands now, once Midtown Plaza is fully demolished, we will have an large empty space where Paetec headquarters was to be built. (Windstream's headquarters is located in Little Rock, Arkansas.) So, in addition to the large downtown space that will be available for development, there is plenty of space in surrounding rural areas as well for a potential motion picture studio.

Hollywood has already expanded its locations for primary projects, inclusive of New York City, Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver. Rochester and the surrounding Finger Lakes region could easily be added to the mix. Some independent producers have already shot some films in this area, so the climate is indeed ripe for major studio executives.

Why is Rochester a good location for a motion picture enterprise?

1.) Rochester is in close proximity to locations that would be ideal for fall and winter film scenes. A perfect scenario that comes to mind is the fact that the Christmas classic, 'It's a Wonderful Life,' was shot during 90-degree summer days, utilizing artificial snow. If the movie had been shot in upstate New York, a natural winter setting could have been provided. (It is rumored that Seneca Falls, NY was the location modeled for Bedford Falls in the film.)

2.) A movie studio in Rochester would give Eastman Kodak the much-needed boost in revenue it needs, considering that its motion picture and digital divisions are vital to Hollywood's current needs.

3.) A movie studio in Rochester would provide wonderful opportunities for students of film at RIT (Rochester Institute of Technology).

4.) A movie studio in Rochester would provide Eastman School of Music students plenty of opportunities to earn extra income by playing in studio orchestras designed to provide background music in motion pictures. The Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra could be recruited for such projects as well.

5.) The George Eastman House could prove to be a valuable asset to any movie studio that located in Rochester. Its archives and film preservation efforts have become invaluable.

6.) Actors and film crews coming to Rochester for projects would give added business to caterers, restaurants, hotels, retail outlets, etc.

Governor Andrew Cuomo and Lieutenant Governor Robert Duffy are making a serious effort to focus on economic development opporunities in upstate New York. It is my hope that an effort will be made to entice a major motion picture studio to consider Rochester for future endeavors.

Peace to all,
Ray

Returning to My Musical Roots

Dear Blog Visitors:

I find that I am truly enjoying my retirement. In addition to perhaps starting a small faith community, and continuing my ministry as an officiant at weddings, I am looking at ways I can make the most of the musical skills I once had.

Many of my high school classmates assumed I would have ended up in the musical profession. In addition, friends who recall I won a competition for young conductors many years ago, culminating in my guest-conducting the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, similarly assumed I was on my way to either a conducting podium or playing trumpet in an orchestra.

After two years at the Eastman School of Music as an undergraduate student (1967-1969), I put any musical career ambitions behind me. I found it was a very competitive field, which brought me to the realization that there were many musicians in the world far better than myself. So, I ventured into other career areas instead.

Now that I am retired, I have been looking at ways to tap into my life-long passion and love for classical music. So, for the past few years, Brenda and I have been season subscribers to the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. I consider them to be one of the best orchestras in the world, so hearing them play at concerts is exhilirating beyond description.

Whenever I take my trumpet out of the closet, I am brought to the realization that I can no longer play concertos or hit very high notes as in the past. However, I can still play good enough to stay active musically, perhaps by joining a community orchestra. Concerning the piano, I have lost most of the dexterity I had as a younger person. However, I am considering one of the many 'self-taught' courses available that will provide me with at least minimal keyboard abilities.

In the photos above, I have provided three images that capture some of my present pursuits (learning to play the piano again, practicing the trumpet, and practicing conducting). In the trumpet photo, I am highlighting the ability to play duets, whereby I record one part and then play a second part with the playback. In the third photo, I guess you can say I am attempting to 'conduct' myself properly.

Peace to all,
Ray

Remembering The Rustix

Dear Blog Visitors:

Anyone who knows me well is aware of my classical music background and my continued love for the classics. However, what you may not know is that I developed friendships with members of rhythm and blues bands that were popular in the late 1960s and early 1970s.

Rochester hosted some great rhythm and blues bands, some of which were The Rustix, The Brass Buttons and Wilmer Alexander and the Dukes. I became particularly friendly with members of The Rustix and The Brass Buttons, some of whom I remain in contact with.

It was a pure delight for me to discover that a video exists of one of the Rustix' biggest hits. I want to thank Chuck Brucato, one of the two former lead singers of the group for proving a link to the video. I have posted it above for those who either want to reminisce or for those who simply wish to hear this recording for the first time.

Peace to all,
Ray

Staying in Rochester

Dear Blog Visitors:

With summer drawing to an end in Rochester, I find I am going through my annual ritual of contemplating life elsewhere, especially since winter weather and I don't get along very well.

After several days of reflection, I decided to take a local journey with my camera, snapping photos as a means of reminding myself of why I have lived in Rochester my entire life. I then made a list of what I would miss if I were to move to escape Rochester's cold winters.

If I were to move, I would certainly miss the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, the many walking trails I am used to, Wegmans stores, the George Eastman House, the wonderful interfaith dialogue, the many universities in our area, excellent medical facilities, etc. I would also miss my neighbor's dog, who is my daily companion on walks, and I would miss the many friends I have made after a lifetime in Rochester. In consideration of all this, I have decided that Rochester will remain my home, at least for the time being.

I guess the lesson to be learned from all this is when the grass seems greener on the other side, it is important to take a careful look at what you have before making a move. This is not to say that I will never move to a warmer climate. However, Rochester is looking pretty good right now.

Peace to all,
Ray

Thanking and Remembering Vietnam Veterans

Dear Blog Visitors:

I am continuing to enjoy my retirement from many years of work at Rochester's City Hall. Between my hobbies, wedding ministry and daily walks and runs with an Alaskan Husky, I have not been bored.

I have been taking a lot of photos in retirement and posting many of them on my Facebook page. When I search for local locations to snap some images, I am often drawn to areas with a special spiritual connection. One such place is Rochester's Vietnam Memorial.

During my last trip to Washington, D.C., I spent some time at the National Vietnam Memorial. I did the same at Rochester's memorial yesterday. I highly recommend a visit by both Rochesterians and visitors to the city. A lot of work, compassion and reverence were devoted by those responsible for the memorial.

The Vietnam War was a divisive period in our country. Some supported the war, some protested against it, and others were neutral. Although I was granted an exemption from the war while in college for undergraduate study, I went for a physical at the local recruiting office following my studies. I was not admitted to the military, due to a variety of allergies that would have caused me problems in a jungle environment such as Vietnam. While I had mixed feelings about this particular war, I did not engage in any protests. So, I guess you can say I was one of those who held a neutral position. Nevertheless, I supported our troups.

As I visited the Rochester Vietnam Memorial yesterday, I recalled the faces of persons I knew who fought in the war. Most came back, and sadly, a few did not.

I took a few photos yesterday, and am sharing three of them as part of this blog post.

Peace to all,
Ray

Celebrating Lucille Ball's 100th Birthday

Dear Blog Visitors:

I am writing this on the day we celebrate what would have been the late and great Lucille Ball's 100th birthday.

Lucille Ball provided countless hours of laughter for me over a period of many years. While most admirers recognize her for her iconic TV roles in such shows as 'I Love Lucy' and 'The Lucy Show,' it is also important to note that she was one of the hardest working studio executives in the television industry. In this regard, she and her husband, Desi Arnaz, worked countless hours to ensure that TV audiences got the very best in weekly programming.

In commemoration of the 100th anniversary of Lucille Ball's birth, I spent some time in Jamestown, New York, where Lucy spent her formative years. As part of my visit, I went to Lucy's gravesite, where I said a silent prayer of thanks for her life and talents.

In the video that follows, I paid tribute to Lucy, inclusive of some photos I took in Jamestown and my playing 'Happy Birthday' on the trumpet.

Tutorial on Roman Catholic Mass Changes

Dear Blog Visitors:

While it is still my intention to write on a variety of topics at this blog, I will continue to offer religious perspectives when issues arise that stir my interest or concern.

If you are a Roman Catholic, you are aware that as of November, 2011, the English translation of the Mass will contain multiple changes. While I fully understand and appreciate the fact that U.S. bishops desired an English translation that is more in sync with the Latin, they should have also understood the need for worship language that has an easy flow for the faithful. They should have also taken into consideration the problems that would be encountered if present music does not work with a new translation. However, since the bishops have made up their minds and have voted affirmatively for the new translation, there is little that can be done at this point.

Although I minister independently of the Rochester Diocese, I am nevertheless occasionally asked questions about the new English translation of the Mass. I have therefore issued a tutorial video. In the video, I do not offer a critique, but I rather offer a comparison between the present and future translation.

Despite my occasional criticisms of procedural or administrative issues within the Roman Catholic Church, I do want the faithful to have a positive worship experience, regardless of the language of the Mass. I will therefore pray that despite a few problems with the new translation, that the faithful will continue to be persons who walk in the light of Christ.

Peace to all,
Ray

New Business Card Reflects Inclusive Ministry

Dear Blog Visitors:

Having already stated that I will be available for same-sex weddings, in light of New York State's marriage equality legislation that was signed into law, I had new business cards printed.

Obviously, I will continue to be an officiant at weddings of heterosexual couples, in addition to my being available for funerals and baptisms. At the same time, I wish to accommodate same-sex couples who wish to have their unions solemnized via a religious wedding ceremony.

New York State's same-sex marriage legislation was designed in such a way that it protects religious institutions, whereby they can either approve or reject marriage requests of its members, much in the same way as decisions are made in other areas, which serves to respect the Constitutional separation of church and state.

I realize that my decision to officiate at same-sex marriages may cause some disappointment within the ranks of the Roman Catholic hierarchy. However, I like to feel that the cordial relationship between myself and the Diocese of Rochester will continue. For example, there have been occasions when diocesan priests have referred couples to me when outdoor weddings were desired. Likewise, I have occasionally referred divorced persons to diocesan priests when there has been confusion over the annulment process. If after a period of discernment, the couple should decide against an annulment, I will usually agree to officiate if the matter was thought through carefully.

I look forward to facilitating religious weddings for both heterosexual and same-sex couples. My decision as to whether or not to be an officiant is based on evidence I see that a couple is truly in love. Perhaps Jesus articulated it best: "Love one another as I have loved you."

Peace to all,
Ray

Married Priests Available for Funerals

Dear Blog Visitors:

One of the areas being impacted as a result of the shortage of diocesan priests around the country is that of funerals. For example, it has been quite common for a diocesan priest to preside at a funeral Mass, but his unavailability to go the cemetery for the burial rite results in either a trained lay person or deacon handling this responsibility.

To be fair, most of the priests in the Rochester Diocese are very compassionate persons and will do whatever they can to accommodate funeral requests. However, there are a few priests who sadly make judgments as to who can have and who cannot have a funeral facilitated by a parish. One such case is addressed in the video posted above. This involved the case of a 35-year-old man who committed suicide. A diocesan priest decided he could not preside at a funeral for him. However, the wife of the deceased was given my name, and I provided whatever compassion I could, although I was not available for the requested funeral. Fortunately, I was able to put the wife in touch with a priest who was available.

My philosophies and theologies surround life and death have fluctuated over the years. At the basic level, I have always had a problem with the notion of human beings making a decision as to whether or not a deceased person gets into heaven. I believe it is a private matter between the soul of the deceased and God. This is articulated in my video.

In consideration of the shortage of diocesan priests, I implore the use of married priests in my video. A list of married priests commmissioned for funerals, weddings and baptisms by the Federation of Christian Ministries is accessible at their website: www.federationofchristianministries.org.

Peace to all,
Ray