Just a guy from Jersey

Very busy semester

2008-05-12T05:54:00.002-04:00

I have had quite a busy semester, and have been busy getting through finals and ready for Diaconate ordination currently, but thought that this (taken from the USCCB website)should be shared especially for any discerners out there. Please keep those to be ordained priests in prayer.

ORDINATION CLASS OF 2008

People might be surprised to know that I…
never formally considered becoming a priest until I was a junior in college. There was one person, my superintendant at my high school, who hinted to me on graduation day that I should keep the ministry in the back of my mind. He thought that I would make a great Catholic priest, and he himself is not even Catholic!

as a small child I played Mass everyday with all the neighborhood kids yet often times I was the only Catholic who was present.

that I was voted most promising future of the Class of 2000 when I graduated from high school and entered college seminary from a predominately baptist city.

I did not like to go to Mass as an adolescent because I found it boring. In many ways, I started to like to go to Mass again when we got a new pastor who easily related to youth. It was because of this pastor example's of life that inspired me to consider entering the seminary.

love Chicken Fried Steak and gravy.

Played in a rock band in high school and college and like reading mystery stories.

Used to be a Disc Jockey. Not a radio one, but one for birthday and anniversary parties and the like. I have a wider range of knowledge of the music of the past 45 years.

That I have been a permanent deacon for almost 20 years. I taught on the college level for 24 years and taught at the diocesan seminary for almost ten years.

was always interested in the priesthood, but took a circuitous route by becoming a Low Vision Specialist in Optometry first.

did not decide to become a Priest until after entering the Seminary. Until then, I gave God a "maybe", but he showed me time and again what his will was for me, so I accepted.

I have an identical twin who is an Anglican minister.

Before entering the seminary I graduated from Catholic University of Lublin and earned J.C.L. - Master and licentiatie in Canon Law.

I was a marching band director and a driving instructor.

Was in cooking school and I studied law before the seminary

play the accordion or that I once wanted to be a professional chef.

Was a cook and a worker at Tyson Company before entering the seminary.

practiced medicine for 2 years, and went to graduate school for 1 year before entering seminary.

I worked for Ford for approximately 14 years before entering the seminary, with the final eight years in assorted managerial roles. While working at Ford I picked up my MBA from U of M Ann Arbor going to night school while working full time. I am currently a Second Lieutenant (chaplain candidate) in the United States Army.

was a fishing and canoe guide in Northern Minnesota.

have whitewater rafted down the Arkansas River.

was a lawyer. I wanted to be a lawyer since I was eleven years old. I never considerd the priesthood until my parish priest asked me to consider it after recognizing a potential priestly vocation.

Inspected municipal and industrial wastewater treatment facilities during my working career prior to seminary.

the Lord gave me the special grace of being able to be ordained as a Transitional Deacon in the same mass that my Father was ordained a Permenant Deacon.

Have second degree black belt in Taekwondo.

am happy pursuing my vocation.

found my calling to the priesthood not by "hanging out" in the church but in my heartfelt performance of my work with patients (people with disabilities) as an occupational therapist.

wanted to become a radio journalist when I was younger, all the way from grade school up through college.

was a coal miner during the summers between college semesters.

am a normal person who likes to do normal things like going to the mall and watching tv.

My vocation is attributed to many years serving at the altar in my home parish.

wanted to be a priest since second grade. I knew even at that young age that God was calling me. I felt it all through grammar school and it continued through high school. I spoke with an advisor about it at my Catholic high school. When I went to college, a state institution, the call grew faint. I felt that it had disappeared but after several years of work it continued. The call seemed to grow more clear and distinct until I entered the seminary and I have never been happier. It has been a long five years but the best years of my life.

was a successful investment banker before I entered the seminary.

Obtained an accounting degree in college and was about to start a Master's in Accountancy program when I decided to enter the seminary instead.

served in Operation Desert Storm in 1991 and the call first surfaced then. I decided to go to college instead and became a CPA. I dated a few nice girls but could never commit to marriage because I had never addressed the calling to the priesthood that surfaced earlier.

felt called to the priesthood from such a young age (4 years old). Many people do not seem to understand this but I cannot remember a time in my life when I did not feel God drawing my heart to serve Him and His Church as a priest.

have a diverse group of interests and a diverse background in education, work and personal experience, and priesthood was a natural decision for me. So often people think of priests as men who are not "normal men," when, in fact, we are just normal men who feel a certain call to living out the Gospel. We all choose a vocation as our means of hoping to attain eternal life, but just because one man chooses to be a priest, he does not at the same time stop being a regular guy.

worked in broadcasting for 32 years, 7 in radio and 25 in television.

Played college football and was a quarterback.

love to perform magic and juggling and have been doing magic and juggling since I was 7 years old.

listened to the Archbishops' vocation journey and I said to myself: "I can do that."

am very interested in music, theater, opera, and a history buff. I love to learn and am always seeking out new topics of discovery!

Served on active duty in the U.S. Navy from 1978 to 1998 in the aviation field.

have been a volunteer firefighter for ten years.

don't know how to swim.

10 years ago if you would have said that I would approaching ordination to the priesthood in a couple of months, I would have said you were crazy.

was an actor in Hollywood for a year right out of High School.

I am part of a documentary entitled "The Calling" which follows the process of becoming a spiritual leader within one's community.

Was called to the priesthood by Jesus after I had finished reading the Gospels for the first time.

The character of Rudy Baylor in John Grisham's novel, The Rainmaker, was a turning point in my taking the step of leaving the legal career and moving towards priesthood, something I always aspired.

never dreamed of going to college or graduate school after high school. I was simply planning on going to trade school and learning carpentry and wood work. Obviously God had some other plans!!

ran the Twin Cities Marathon.

was never very active in the parish and never even thought of the priesthood until my Freshman year of college.

enjoy reading economics journals.

Served in the 3rd Infantry Division, Alpha Company 2nd Battalion, 7th Infantry. I also worked for Charles Scwhab & Co. as an investment advisor prior to entering the seminary.

love nature and I love to travel. I love hiking and watching sunsets. I love seeing new places and experiencing new cultures. I want to see the world during my vacation time. I think that it also helps me to have new perspectives and to appreciate what I have when I travel. I hope that I can also share what I experience with others.

delayed my vocation because I felt responsible for the family business and being the oldest son, but one day, at the age of 34, my Father officially released me and that same week I inquired at the vocations office in Tucson. I had always thought of the priesthood since I was in 6th grade. I thought I was not educated enough so I worked voluntarily for 18 years at my local parish. It was a priest who finally told me I had what it takes.

Grew up on a tobacco farm in Southern Maryland. I joined the seminary after high school. As a seminarian I have done mission experiences in Thailand and El Salvador

Was named a College Lacrosse All American my senior year.

Have traveled to 29 countires

Have completed 3 Half Ironman triathlons

Was in mission for two years in Colorado

really wanted to be in a Rock Band in High School and College.

received a Ph.D. in electrical engineering, started a small high-technology business, and was one of the early university researchers to be involved in the field of nanotechnology. I worked as a Research Assistant Professor at West Virginia University for several years and served on a National Science Foundation panel to award research funding to university researchers in the area of nanotechnology.

have both an uncle and great-uncle who are priests of my diocese. Growing up, I definitely did not want to continue this "family tradition," but eventually God's call became more evident. Now, I am excited to begin my ministry as a priest, and I thank God for the gift of my vocation!

People may be interested to know that I am a sports junkie. … Since entering the seminary after high school, I have continued being active by playing soccer, volleyball, softball, flag-football, and have also participated on the seminarian basketball team. In addition to these I enjoy getting out for a great round of golf.

taught myself to play the bassoon in college.

do my daily prayers (liturgy of the hours) from a handheld computer rather than from the paper breviary.

I can speak more than one language: Polish, German, Russian, Spanish, and English.

only began to consider religious life and priesthood when I was nearly 40 years old, after having had a fulfilling and successful career in business.

worked as a Clinical Psychologist, gaining a doctorate in the field, before turning down a successful and financially stable career to enter religious life and the priesthood.

have made three mission trips to Mexico, one to Jamaica, one to Thailand and China.

enjoy speaking in Spanish and have spent a year of studies in Mexico.

have run two marathons while in seminary. I also was a mathematics major with minors in education, statistics and art history at a state (non-religious) university.

Lived and worked abroad for eight years in the UK, Saudi Arabia and Nigeria prior to entering religious life

People might be surprised to know that I was a restless kid, very active in sports, always had a girlfriend, and didn't consider the priesthood as a possibility for me until about a year before entering the seminary. At home I was rather misbehaved, buy my parents helped me to see that the most important thing in life is to do God's will, which is what will make us happy in this life and in the next.

I was an underground diocesan seminarian for 7 years in Vietnam before I came to the U.S.

I worked as a reporter for The Tablet newspaper, the official paper of the Diocese of Brooklyn.

I worked in a home improvement/hardware store throughout high school. I can solder pipe, rewire an electrical outlet, seed a lawn and fix a leaky faucet. People also might be surprised to know that I was a baseball umpire for little league.

That I served as a Naval Officer and helicopter pilot for ten years before entering the seminary.

I have been practicing martial arts for the past 8 years. The arts have included: boxing, kickboxing, jiujitsu, and judo.

served as the president of my college fraternity. Many of the aspects of Religious Life mirror what I found there, a sense of brotherhood which I treasure very much.

intended to become an officer in the U.S. Army Infantry while enrolled in a Catholic university only to be guided by God in the direction of religious life by the witness of prayer and community life of the religious brothers and priests who ran the institution. Their enthusiasm for engaging in the life of the students on campus, beyond the classroom, was at the forefront of evangelization.

have a lifelong goal of backpacking the entire Appalachian Trail.

have composed a lot of gospel and Mass music.

busy week

2008-03-01T06:41:00.004-05:00

So, winter break is done and I got my taxes completed, so the school year must be approaching the ever-dreaded final push around mid-terms to finals. Things are going quite well but I have a busy week between school work and stuff going on in the parish coming up. St. Joseph Parish is having their semi-annual Chicken Dinner this weekend, so if you are in the Baltimore area, stop by and have some great food! I will also be at the parish this week to lead Eucharistic Adoration on Tuesday and for a Mass for the Knights of Columbus on Thursday. Adoration is a wonderful thing to start during the Lenten season since many parishes begin this practice or extend their normal weekly observance during this time. It is a wonderful time to just quietly talk to Our Lord and remain focused on his sacrifice for us. The Diocese of Metuchen is in the middle of their Holy Hour for Vocations in which all parishes of the Diocese will have Eucharistic Adoration and I encourage everyone to try and attend at your parish or if you are not within the Diocese, you are always welcome, but perhaps you can encourage your parish to start something like this. You won't regret it!

So, Johan Santana pitched his first game as a Met yesterday in a Spring Training tilt against the Cardinals. Although it wasn't a great outing and only two innings, it was such a joy to come back to my room and tune into Mlb.TV to watch live baseball again. It reminds me that spring is just around the corner. I can smell the hotdogs already!

Well, I hate to cut this short, but I do have to run to the parish to teach CCD and just wanted to make sure that I get this updated a little more often then in the past. I have not forgotten to include your moment of zen... ever wonder what else your name spelled out, now you can know without doing any work yourself! Enjoy!

polly tickle science

2008-02-11T05:39:00.000-05:00

Now, understand where I am coming from, I was sick of the fact that this presidential race seemed to begin in 2005 after we had just finished a race, however since we are running down to the last two candidates on each side I feel I can actually comment on what is going on (sorry, Ron Paul). First, of all does anyone understand the so-called superdelegates? The best explanation I have seen is here. I don't know about you, but it bothers me a bit to know that in an election, at least on the democratic side, which looks like it will go down to the wire, the party hardliners can choose someone that the voters do not want. Plus, why are they super? I want to be super.

Along the same lines, where is the large outrage of people complaining that although one candidate won the popular vote in the state, they didn't get the most delegates? The media which kept hammering the point home in the 2000 election, but seemingly doesn't care now in the primary... will somebody please explain this? Of course, this is also the same group that wanted recounts in Florida to make sure "every vote counted" but didn't care about New Mexico where the vote was even closer (source: CNN).

Another thing I can't get is this fascination with "Conservative" on the Republican side. None of the candidates this year were truly conservative when looking at all of their records and the whole idea of one trumpeting that they are conservative over the other was similar to the line in Matthew's Gospel: "Why do you notice the splinter in your brother's eye, but do not perceive the wooden beam in your own eye?" (Matt 7:3) I think we've gotten this whole conservative-liberal thing way out of whack... as my friend pointed out at dinner the other day, you know when I am getting a nice cold beverage to drink I want the person pouring the drink to be liberal... it's ok, we can say it.

Finally, don't trust the polls... remember they were telling us that Rudy was going to win easily and Hillary on the Democratic side, then it was Romney for the Republicans, and now it is McCain and Obama. Vote for whatever candidate YOU want without listening to what others want you to believe. Speaking of which, the most typical news from politics, was the fact that Obama-Girl (I have decided not to post links because of other comments I have read on various sites here), the woman who sang "I have a crush on Obama" and was the key that many pundits were pointing to about the young vote going to him, didn't vote! She was interviewed by the New York Times at a party and explained that she was sick from going to Arizona for the Super Bowl and couldn't vote... apparently she was not too sick to party though. Which just makes me say that I believe I will understand tickling a parrot (see title of this post) about as much as politics.

OK, well, I guess that is enough rant for the day... guess it just got to me.

Happy Ash Wednesday!

2008-02-06T05:44:00.000-05:00

Well, it is that time of year again, the beginning of lent, one of my favorite times of the liturgical year. It is a simpler time that allows us to attempt to reform our lives a little bit in the hope of conforming ourselves to the Gospel message. I wish that all of you have a blessed Lent and use this time, not to focus on what you give up or what added tasks you have given yourself, but to look on the gain of a closer relationship with our Lord that it is meant to lead us to. I checked out the Vatican website (as you can tell by the picture above) and one of my favorite links that they have placed on the site is from the Pontifical Institute of Sacred Music. They are in single clips of between 30 seconds and 3.5 minutes, but it is just nice to take a small prayer break with. Enjoy!

So, I know again it has been a while since I wrote, and there has been so much to talk about... I am not sure where even to start. I guess the best thing to do is lop off the rest of 2007 and just get to the new year. 2008 has been quite good for me thus far. I started with a wonderful trip to Toronto for the International Bowl which Rutgers won quite easily, but it was still a good time. We did the typical Toronto stuff - CN Tower, Hockey Hall of Fame and Rogers Centre (note the Canadian spelling), getting lost in the PATH, and Bill has all the pictures from there which will probably be posted on Webshots sometime soon (more on that later). The best find though was Steam Whistle Brewery. As you may remember, Bill and I visited St. Arnold's when we went to Houston and we decided this was a nice tradition to continue. When we walked into Steam Whistle Brewery (right across from the Rogers Centre) the girls behind the counter didn't ask if they could help us or if we were interested in a tour, but "would you like a free sample." We learned all about the brewing process and the history of the old roundhouse which is now home to the brewery and enjoyed this wonderfully refreshing Canadian Pilsner. The mantra of Steam Whistle is to do one thing really well, so this is the only beer that they produce... if you get a chance, I highly recommend it for a nice 45 minute tour and the typically friendly Canadian crew.

So, I have figured out that most of my electronics were not Y2K8 compliant... My camera broke when I was in Toronto, it was already on the fritz, but one more drop pretty much did the trick. I have not purchased a new one yet, but is probably the next major purchase. My cell phone car charger had died and then the phone itself is starting to get flakey (although I just need it to work until this summer when my contract expires). Then on returning to school, my computer decided to die, fried hard drive, so I had to go out and get a new PC, I decided to go against my better judgment and purchase an HP, it has been good to me thus far, although I am not a huge fan of Windows Vista, but it isn't as bad as many people will lead you to believe. Finally, my tv has been acting up recently, turning on after I turn it off... kind of creepy, but I have a smaller one that will suffice for me. Being so technologically attached, it has been a bit of a strain on my life style, but hey in the long run, they are only things. On a positive note, one of my Christmas gifts was a Garmin nuvi 250 which has been working quite well.

After going to toronto, I had my diaconate retreat as required by Canon Law, I decided to go to St. Mary's Abbey in Morristown, NJ. The Benedictines have a wonderful community and my retreat was quite peaceful. I took along the rite of ordination and my Bible along with two texts which I found to be quite good and recommend them for anyone discerning the priesthood: A View from the Altar by Howard Bleichner and The Joy of Priesthood by Stephen Rossetti.

Finally, I got some wonderful news just about a week ago... I was accepted to the Catholic Relief Services Global Fellows Program which will allow me to travel to Rwanda in May-June. I am very excited to be a part of this program and have always had a special inkling to travel to Africa. Although I have been able to go to Egypt, I have always considered it more of the Middle East than Africa although it is on the African Continent (a view I have found many Africans share as well). I am intrigued to see the differences and similarities with how we think and act and to be able to witness the recovery process from the genocide from 1994 in an effort that no one may ever go through it again. I am really looking forward to this trip and ask for your continued prayers for solidarity.

Well, I believe I have written enough for now, it is nice to be back and writing again and I will try to keep this more up to date in the future. Have a wonderfully spiritual Lent.

I know that you are all missing the one thing that ends, each posting, well I will not disappoint you... Your Moment of Zen brings us to one of the most pointless sites I have ever found... apparently these people really like Table Tennis.

just under three months...

2007-11-11T07:03:00.000-05:00

ouch... well, I have always been a positive person... I didn't wait three months (just one day short) from updating my blog. I really apologize for not updating this more frequently... Classes have been quite good, but between those, parish work and time to unwind a bit, I just haven't had the energy to post anything recently. It doesn't help that Rutgers hasn't done very well in football and so my excitement level is a little bit down to begin with. On a happier note, I think I found out where I would like to be buried when I finally pass - see picture on left. This was taken after one of the bright spots of RU's season, the 30-27 defeat of South Florida. I could have had tickets to the West Virginia game, but since I had the opportunity to go to this game as well as having tickets for the Pittsburgh game next week, I figured it was best to stay in Maryland. More on the positive side of things, I think this will mean that I should not have a very difficult time getting bowl tickets this year, assuming RU makes one (which they should). So, that is nice - I guess I am hoping for the Meineke Car Care Bowl in North Carolina, I am pretty sure the Sun Bowl is out and since I am in the parish up until Christmas, the Papajohns.com Bowl is not my first choice. Oh well, first things first, beat Pittsburgh (and Louisville)!

I also had the opportunity back in September to go to my first NASCAR race. It was at the Monster Mile in Dover, DE. It was a really good time and I got plenty of free chewing tobacco, although I don't chew and don't plan on chewing... I just wanted to fit in :). I stopped a whole bunch of people who were doing track tours to take this shot (right) right out of Talladega Nights. They weren't very pleased to begin with, but then after they saw what Bill and I were doing, they all wanted to get a shot like that. The track tour was really cool, the inclines on the straightaways were pretty ridiculous and although we were not allowed in the corners (which have a banking of 28 degrees!), I could imagine how hard it would be to walk up there. It was a bit awkward that the team that we were there with (Caterpillar) had their only driver not qualify. Although Dave Blaney did sign autographs and have a bit of a Q&A session with the fans and I got a really cool hat, which also had my lucky number 22 on it! So that was nice.

Also, before I leave, I do want to thank all of our veterans, both living and deceased on this Veterans' Day and while I thank you all for serving our country and protecting us, I do pray that we somehow find a better way to end our differences.

Anywho, I have to get ready to go to the parish, but hopefully will update again sometime soon. Please continue to pray for me and I assure you that I will continue praying for you. And no, I have not forgotten, your moment of zen... inspired by the latest thing to help me relax :).

I'm back!

2007-08-12T08:32:00.000-04:00

So, I guess I should have checked the weather after Monday, because it poured on Friday and I couldn't enjoy another fine day at the shore, but I am just happy that I did get to enjoy one beautiful afternoon. I stayed with John and Beth and cruised on down to Seaside Heights to enjoy an absolutely great day. The weather was perfect and I just got to take in the wonderful smell of salt water, fried food and suntan lotion while watching the waves break on the shore. What trip down the shore would be complete without the obligatory game of Skeeball? I am rusty in my old age and only broke 250 a couple of times. I was also trying to find a family to give my tickets to after I played, but unfortunately everyone left, so I just saved them for John and Beth... maybe they can get an eraser or a spider ring next time. They also had a remember when section in the arcade and I decided to play a round of Q*bert (I am better than this guy) and Punch-out (the original video game with the green grid boxer) before scarfing down some deep fried oreos. I am going to need to run extra hard during the upcoming semester to drop off some of those pounds :) Although I wish I could have had one more day to lay on the beach and just read or relax, because of the rain I actually had the opportunity to get some work done for the pending trip to China, visiting AAA and talking to a travel agent.

So, it is official, I will not be a Rutgers Football season ticket holder this year... unfortunately demand had far exceeded expectations and I am still on the waiting list... I guess I should have kept them when I had them before moving to Maryland, oh well, I just hope that I can get them by the time I have settled back in Jersey in two years. At least I get to see them on TV quite a bit and perhaps I will be able to get tickets to one of the games and make my way back up for a weekend.

Speaking of football, it is back! Yesterday I completed my little vacation down the shore by watching the Giants first preseason game, and boy does it look like a loooong season. I love my team in good times and bad, but when they don't tackle and look like a pee-wee team it makes it really tough to like them. Oh well, it is the first preseason game, perhaps they will get better, although I am not holding my breath on that one.

Last week, I also got the opportunity to see the latest of the Jason Bourne movies, The Bourne Ultimatum. I must sound like a broken record with all of the sequels/previous idea type movies this summer, but, again, if you enjoyed the first two you will love this one. The action is great, Matt Damon continues to prove that he is a much better actor than Ben Affleck as he concludes(?) the story written by Robert Ludlum. I think it is an excellent combination of action, thought and wit that makes these movies what they are. I just like to see the different areas that Bourne goes to, and this movie makes me want to go to Tangiers... speaking of other countries, did you ever wonder what happens in Filipino prison? or if you prefer the Sister Act Version... apparently it is a way to try to stop forming gangs within the prison and get out energy... in any case it is entertaining.

Well, this will be my last week in Jersey for a bit as I am heading down to Baltimore on Friday to prep for Orientation... it is getting to that time as I recieve more calls and emails from friends down there who haven't seen me in a while, and I am looking forward to starting off on the right foot (or the left, whichever really). I have lots to do and little time as the planning for Orientation now boils down to executing it, I just hope that the new seminarians are pleased and well informed as they start their journey at St. Mary's.

Speaking about other seminarians, I received a nice email from another seminarian, Alan Carter from LEXINGTON, Kentucky so, I guess people do read this from time to time :) (sorry about the typo and thanks to Matt for the correction). While I do not answer "Tags", just because it reminds me too much of chain letters, I am more than happy to support all seminarians and am always interested in reading others blogs... maybe I should answer the tags... well not today, this message is already long enough. Just please keep all the seminarians in your prayers as we travel back to school and start the semester within the next couple of weeks. God bless you always!

Our Moment of Zen comes from a brother seminarian who sent me this link to show us that even though everyone may think that it is difficult for a person discerning priesthood to go to the shore, it is a dangerous place for everyone. Enjoy the rest of your summer!

Can you tell it's vacation time?

2007-08-06T10:07:00.000-04:00

Well, the blog doesn't get updated as much, I get more phone calls and emails from friends and make more myself and thoughts are drifting back towards work that needs to be done for Orientation at the Seminary (as well as the dreams of a beautiful college football season)... it can only mean it is time for vacation!!! The plans are being made slowly but surely, right now it is going to be fairly low key with time spent with friends and family. However, I am going to take a few days later this week to go down the shore and relax a bit on the warm sands while listening to the joyeous sounds of the ringing of bells and children screaming on the boardwalk and smelling the deep fried oreos which are guarenteed to take a year off of your life with every bite while scalding the roof of your mouth. mmmm.... I can taste them already.

It is also this time that my Verizon ring back tones (they play instead of you hearing ringing while Verizon tries to connect you to me) are reset and I wanted to do something a little different and change the song on a daily basis... I have a different tune for every day of the week, although I am a little upset that She's Leaving Home was not available for Wednesday's. oh well, some things are a stretch, but hey, that is part of the fun... what are you waiting for CALL ME!

OK, so I could officially tell that I am a seminarian because of what I am about to tell you I got excited about this weekend. It was the 18th Sunday of Ordinary Time which meant, that's right kiddies, TIME TO SWITCH YOUR BREVIARIES!!! Ok, I will wait for the laughter to die down now. Sorry, I get excited about the little things, and cleaning out my breviary, knowing that I will not see this volume again until after Christmas is an emotional time... actually I think it is more about thinking about the last time I used the new breviary... thinking about the prayers that were poured out, the things that I struggled with during that time and looking back at it today. Funny how things work, I know that the people in Guatemala were very deeply in my prayers the last time I used this volume, and on the same weekend that we switch, who do I have dinner with? Two of my friends from the Guatemala trip! We ate at Blue Water Seafood Company in East Brunswick which doesn't look like much from busy Route 18, but the food is excellent. Kind of middle of the road price wise, entrees are about $15-25, and the atmosphere may not be the best for some... it was quite hot and a bit noisy. Yet, we were still able to have a nice conversation and catch up a bit which was nice. If you do decide to go, just know that there is Valet parking due to the very small lot and it is BYO, so be prepared, but if you like seafood, you will enjoy the choices here. Here is a picture of Elsa, Mel and I from Guatemala :)...

So, last night, Tom Glavine finally did it, winning the 300th game of his career. Will he be the last person to do it? I think so... pitchers today just don't go that long and the ones that are close on the list may not have enough time or strength left in their arms. But, what do I know? I was planning on going to next Saturday's Mets game if he didn't win last night against the Cubs, but thanks to him I saved myself at least $40 :) Thanks Tom! I did win tickets a few weeks ago to the Tigers vs. Yankees by coming up with the answer of Sgt. Slaughter in trivia... actually our whole team just rocked that night, but the last question was worth 30 points, so I declare myself the champ (and I am humble too).

Well, that's all for now... a big thanks to Matt Hardesty for providing this wonderful Moment of Zen, he is absolutely correct that if this isn't a moment of Zen I don't know what is... well... perhaps, THIS. Always have to do one better... heck, that is why I am from Jersey. :) Pax

Winding down

2007-07-29T05:47:00.000-04:00

As we approach the month of August, thoughts of vacation are starting to drift into my head, although I still haven't finalized what, if anything, I am doing. I may drive down to see some friends, perhaps camping on my way down to North Carolina, or I may just catch up on some reading and bother my parents for a few weeks. I know I have some last minute work to finish up before I head down to the Seminary for Orientation, so there will definitely be some family time up north. So, as I am winding down my time at Our Lady of the Mount, I have been trying to visit friends in the area. I got an opportunity to see an old friend from Seminary on Friday as we had a wonderful dinner at that 4-star restaurant known as Fuddrucker's. I can hear my father cringing already, he was never been a big fan of the loudness of the place, but I have many happy fudd's memories from my childhood... I could never get enough of those buns and chili cheese fries :).

We (as you might be able to tell from the giant picture at the top of this blog) also went to see The Simpsons movie on opening night. The movie was alright, not bad, but not great... One warning, it IS NOT for kids!!! The movie has a PG-13 rating and that should be heeded. One scene in particular sticks out, but I feel that that one was quite enough, I don't want to spoil anything for people planning on seeing it, so if you have a question about specifics, just email me. There were times in the movie that I was laughing hysterically especially at this:

If you like the show, you should love the movie. It has it's ups and it's downs (especially the whole Lisa love interest which is almost always painfully dragged out). But the pointless humor is still there and if you wait in the theater until the very end you will be given another wonderful song by the Simpson's group which I would not recommend missing. I give it 3.5 stars out of 5.

I also watched the movie The Number 23 which is out in video now. It was pretty good if you like the whole crime/suspense kind of movie. And it does make you question the "What if..." aspect that is going through Jim Carrey's head. I am usually not a big Carrey fan, but he excels in this part and I was intrigued with the story throughout the movie.

It is almost college football time!!! The announcement for me always comes when the release of the latest college football game is made. Although these games are usually just newer versions of old games, I love this one compared to last year. First, Rutgers Stadium is correct (you even hear the cannon go off after a touchdown!). Secondly, the Campus Legend function let's you start the game as a high school senior, choose which school you go to (depending on offers) and makes you work your way through classes, practices and evening events while you try to work your way up the depth chart. Want to go play mini-golf with the guys??? It will help your popularity, but not in the classroom. You need to maintain a good enough GPA, but you also want to become the star on campus, known by everyone, so what are you going to choose? I think I like this way too, because the coach calls all the plays and you only have the ability to do things when your number is called. Much more realistic in my book... two thumbs up EA Sports! Speaking of college football, it is also that time for Heisman hopeful websites, RU did a great job on See Ray Run, hopefully he has another great season as RU looks to get that BCS birth this year.

Well, I think I have written enough for now... I am off to my last weekend in the parish (thanks again to everyone at Our Lady of the Mount for a wonderful summer experience!). And for your Moment of Zen remember when you are complaining about the heat, winter is only a few months away... enjoy the rest of your summer!

Thank you, Good Knight!

2007-07-24T15:35:00.000-04:00

So, I haven't gotten much blogged in a bit, but things really haven't been all that busy either, I guess I just didn't have much to say (imagine that!). One thing that was very exciting, was that on Thursday I became a 2nd Degree member of the Knights of Columbus. Something that I have wanted to do for quite some time. The Knights have done so much for seminarians in the past and I am extremely greatful for the support of vocations that I could not think of anything better to do than join their ranks. I hope to get my third degree when I am down in Baltimore some time; one of my brother seminarians is a past Grand Knight from Baltimore and am sure can find a council where I can help out during the semester. If you are interested in joining the Knights of Columbus, I highly recommend that you do and if you are a Knight, suggest joining to someone else.
I did promise some pictures of an adorable little puppy that fr. sean got, so here they are: (actually here is the whole family)

Let's see what else... oh we had our annual vocations picnic which was quite nice, a number of young men decided to enjoy the beautiful weather at St. Augustine of Canterbury Parish in Kendall Park (Edmund's home parish). Again, thanks to the Knights of Columbus for some wonderful food, especially the Kalbasa and Pierogi.

As I look at the calendar I only have another week here at Our Lady of the Mount :(, and the work has begun on getting back to St. Mary's and Orientation. The good news is that all those vocation prayers have seemed to be working, so please keep them up!!!

I am going to keep this posting a bit short since it is the end of the day and I want to find out what happens in Battlestar Galactica (I am sooo selfish, but I am also soooo hooked on this show). I will not leave you without your moment of zen.

Apparently I am still up to date

2007-07-16T07:40:00.000-04:00

Well, well, well, just when I thought that I was getting too old for this technology, you read a posting like this on MSNBC. Granted I only joined facebook a few weeks ago and only because of my techie friends, but still, it's nice to know I am back in the in-crowd :). Actually, I have been quite pleased with facebook, it has allowed me to find a few old friends who I haven't talked to in a while and allows me to challenge people to Roshambull (a.k.a. Rock, Paper, Scissors).

Actually I found out that Dave White not only is a teacher, but also is a writer! His book, When One Man Dies will be released (according to Amazon) on September 25. I read an smattering from the first few chapters and I think the line that really pulled me in toward the quality of his writing was this line: "He had his cup of coffee, and the breath to go with it." Anyway, Dave is good people, so feel free to pick up his book.

Speaking of books, I also found out from my friend Matt Hardesty that another friend, this time from Seminary, also has a new book out. Chris Cuddy book entitled I choose God: Stories from Young Catholics. I haven't read the book, but what Matt says in his blog about Chris is right on target. He is a highly intelligent person and I am sure his book will be excellent and inspirational for young adults. After I read it, I am sure I will post more, of course that is something I am not up to date on (my reading list), so perhaps you should just check it out yourself.

Since things always happen in threes (or we force them to be that way, I figured I needed another friend author to write about... well, I just found another high school friend on facebook, Ryan Pienciak, and his father, Richard T. Pienciak writes True Crime stories, so you can check him out too. And no, I do not make any money from Amazon, it just happens to be my default site for buying stuff so I send people there. Feel free to use any site or store you desire.

For Your Moment of Zen today, I give you the gift of history. Perhaps Planet of the Apes wasn't so far off?

tribute to the Bangles...

2007-07-15T18:44:00.000-04:00

Well, it's just another manic Sunday (oh oh oh), I wish it were a Wednesday (oh oh oh), cause that's my friend's day... my I don't have to bends day... it's just another manic Sunday. OK, so I won't quit my day job, unless of course my day job is a singer or song writer, which it isn't :)
Anywho... things are going well... I had a wonderful Salmon dinner on Friday night with Dave and Shelly back in Clifton assumed my usual duties of falling asleep in front of the TV afterwards... except no hockey was on this time. I saw the folks for a little bit Saturday morning before heading out to the retreat that I think I mentioned earlier. The retreat went well and we had a pretty good turnout of both men and women interested in religious life. I was beat by the time I was set to go home (around 10 PM), but luckily there was not much traffic and I made it back to Warren pretty quick.
Speaking of Warren, Fr. Sean got a new puppy, Jasmine, hopefully I will take a picture sometime soon so you can see the whole family. Anyway, she is a long-haired Dachsund, and she is so cute. Jake and Joey are finally getting used to this new pooch on their turf. She really wanted some of the omelette I was making this morning, but somehow I resisted the cuteness.
I have also become a movie junkie recently, mostly because of blockbuster total access, if you bring the movies back to blockbuster, you can rent movies there for free and they automatically release the next movies in your queue, thus you double the amount you normally would sign up for. Not bad considering it was a wait for Letters from Iwo Jima online, but it was in the store. The movie was ok, a little long in my opinion, but still a good story line and it helps you look at things from different points of view. I figure get the movie watching done while I can, cause you all know I need more movies to be able to quote from (and no, I will not be quoting anything from Letters from Iwo Jima since it is in Japanese).
Well, that's all for now, I will write more soon, and I hope you all enjoy Flight of the Conchords and John from Cincinnati tonight! Pax et bonum.

Another day, another movie

2007-07-13T07:23:00.000-04:00

OK, I am feeling better now :)... Wednesday I went to see another movie, for some reason I go in spurts, but it is the summer and I have Wednesdays off so what else am I going to do? My friend Ed and I went to see 1408, I am a big John Cusack and Samuel L. Jackson fan and I like scary movies, so I thought this could be good. Both Ed and I could not figure out if we actually liked the movie after it was over though. One positive was that it wasn't like the typical slasher type movies that Hollywood loves to produce, this was much more mind-oriented, it is rated PG-13, so I figured it wouldn't be too gory. On a down-side, most of the things that would have made you jump I had already seen in the preview, so I new it was coming. The eerieness (is that even a word?) of the movie was quite good and I think the premise of the movie was interesting. The ending in my opinion left a lot to be desired, but I will not spoil it for others. I was not bored though, and it kept me in the movie the whole time wondering what was going to happen, so I can't say it was bad. I'll go with average, with a nod for a good effort and a recommendation to wait until it is on video or cable.
One thing I can recommend is Aroma Royal Thai Restaurant in Franklin Park, where we went to dinner after the show. The food was excellent and not very expensive, I enjoyed a beef curry in a coconut shell and it was quite delightful. You can order the meals as mild, medium, hot and very hot... being thai food, I decided hot was as far as I wanted to go, but I am quite sure that I could go to very hot without a problem. We also ordered the combination platter for an appetizer which included paper shrimp, chicken satay and egg rolls I think, it was tasty though and came with a side of spices which you could use on your discretion. The dessert was phenomenal though, I had the F.B.I. - Fried Banana with Ice Cream, and with the exception of using a paper cup to mold the ice cream (allowing me to read the words "Solo") I was quite pleased. Here is a review from the New York Times if you are thinking about going - I am sure they know more about food than I do.

Well, that is all for now, I am heading to a retreat this weekend for people discerning religious life, so please keep us in your prayers. Until then, God bless and take care, and enjoy your moment of zen. This is kind of fun but also disturbing.

new Bishop for Baltimore

2007-07-12T10:09:00.000-04:00

Good morning! I am not feeling so hot today, actually just in the last hour, so I hope I just need to lay down for a bit, so I will keep this short. Anyway, there will be another new face around Baltimore when I return in August (not that I hang around with bishops all that much)...Baltimore has a successor for William Cardinal Keeler, Archbishop Edwin F. O'Brien (pictured above). His motto is Pastores Dabo Vobis (I will give you shepherds) and has served as rector of two seminaries prior to being named auxiliary bishop of New York in 1996, so I pray that this will only mean even more blessings of vocations on the Archdiocese of Baltimore.

There is nothing like the smell of Ecclesiology in the morning

2007-07-10T09:18:00.000-04:00

I opened my email this morning and found from the Vatican Information Service a document that was released by the Vatican about Church doctrine. I felt like I was in Fr. Stevens' Ecclesiology class! (actually more like the final in the class) It answered five common questions about the Catholic Church:
1. Did the Second Vatican Council change the Catholic doctrine on the Church?
2. What is the meaning of the affirmation that the Church of Christ subsists in the Catholic Church?
3. Why was the expression 'subsists in' adopted instead of the simple word 'is'?
4. Why does the Second Vatican Council use the term 'Church' in reference to the oriental Churches separated from full communion with the Catholic Church?
5. Why do the texts of the Council and those of the Magisterium since the Council not use the title of 'Church' with regard to those Christian Communities born out of the Reformation of the sixteenth century?

It can be viewed here. I am happy to say that I already knew the answers to these questions, so THANK YOU FR. BUD and St. Mary's!

Speaking of St. Mary's (well it is a bit of a stretch), one movie night we were supposed to watch Night at the Museum, but by some small miscommunication, I was not able to watch it. I actually tried twice to see it and never got a chance. Well, thanks to Blockbuster Total Access, the movie was delivered to me yesterday and I watched it last night. Pretty good movie, I have always liked Ben Stiller and Carla Gugino ever since Son-In-Law (yes, I watch Paulie Shore movies). I think everyone knows the premise of the story so I will not even get into it here, but if you haven't seen it yet, I recommend it (well I recommend it even if you have seen it, but you get the idea). Enjoy!

I am still trying to figure out John from Cincinnati... this last episode was kind of dull. It seemed to put all of the characters into place for a big occurrence but I felt that Cissy was a little over the top and wanted to get rid of her more than Tony's Sister, Janice, from the Sopranos (and anyone who knows me knows that is huge)... Actually, this person's take on the show was pretty much on target with my exact feelings.

Well, I think that is all for now, but considering that it is now the all-star break in baseball and if you are like me and dislike all-star games, you have nothing sporty to do but wait. So, while you are waiting you may want to think of the peace and happiness that college football brings you and enjoy this moment of zen. If you ever wondered how your football team did against any other team now you know, let the smack talk begin! GO RU!

World Youth Day song released

2007-07-09T16:24:00.001-04:00

As some of you may already know, World Youth Day is a gathering of young people from around the World to celebrate the Catholic faith. The last one was held in Cologne, Germany in 2005, and next year the 10th since its inception in 1986 by Pope John Paul II will be held in Sydney, Australia. Well, the song for WYD has been released and can be viewed here! Since I am planning a trip to China that same summer I do not believe I will go to WYD, but be assured that my prayers are with all those who are planning on going and are in attendance.

Lazy Day

2007-07-08T16:24:00.000-04:00

After a long Mets game last night (a 17-inning Mets win over the Astros), I did not want to wake up this morning. Unfortunately I chose on of the few professions which requires me to get up on Sunday Mornings... I made up for it this afternoon, since the Mets have been getting blown out and there is no NASCAR race, I passed out in the recliner. I feel a little groggy, but thought perhaps some blogging would make up for it. :) Speaking of the Mets game, Did you see that catch by Beltran? In the bottom of the 14th with the winning run at 3rd, Beltran came up with this gem.

What am I going to do now that baseball has a day off because of the All-Star break??? Actually, I am not a big fan of any all-star game, especially baseball though since there is nothing else going on this time of year to keep my sports mind occupied. Well, I did sign up for a test trial of Blockbuster Total Access and should be getting my movies on Monday... I am sure I will give a complete rundown on how Total Access is once I experience it a little more. I am starting with a couple of flix and going to try to catch up with some seminarian friends by watching Battlestar Galactica... I figured it was the least I could do after hooking everyone on 24.

With all the previous baseball talk I had to share this as Your Moment of Zen. It is amazing how I find some of these things... I was trying to find something about Beltran's great catch in the 14th inning last night and this is one of the sites that came up. I am sad to say that in May this person said she can no longer keep up her blog with her new baby. Anyway, write more to you soon! Pax et bonum.

Kiva update & do you Motu (proprio)?

2007-07-07T06:43:00.000-04:00

I recieved an update from Kiva today and Ruth (the person that I lent to) is now 50% paid back. I have been quite impressed with Kiva thus far and feel comfortable that I can recommend them for others that are interested in helping with microloans. It is really humbling when you realize that for the price of a dinner you can help change someone's life... At this rate Ruth will finish paying off her loan by September and I can re-invest in someone else. Kiva has been excellent in keeping things up to date thus far and I have been pleased with the journals of some of the people as well. I will also speak to my friend Mike and see how his business partner is doing. But if you get a chance and have the means check it out. The link is always on the right hand side of the page as well.

Also, from VIS yesterday:

VATICAN CITY, JUL 6, 2007 (VIS) - Tomorrow, Saturday July 7, the Vatican Information service will transmit a special service for the publication of the Apostolic Letter "Motu Proprio data" of His Holiness Benedict XVI, "Summorum Pontificum," concerning the use of the pre-1970 Roman liturgy. The document will be accompanied by an explanatory Letter from the Holy Father.

What does this mean? Expect a lot of miscommunication from the press! Just figured I would give you a heads up and want you to read things from the source (currently in Latin only) before too much is blown out of proportion about how we are going back into the stone ages. Either the Vatican Website or Zenit.org will give you reliable information. And before you ask, no I do not believe my first Mass (God-willing) will be in Latin.

Pax et bonum!

Movie review updates

2007-07-05T15:13:00.000-04:00

So, as I said it would be... my fourth of July was pretty low-key... I basically just went to the movies and caught a double feature. Not only did I go to see Transformers, but also Live Free or Die Hard... both of which I was skeptical at first about, hoping rather than knowing that they would be good. I was quite happy with the movies, and for those of you who look at the USCCB movie reviews both were not morally offensive (although, Die Hard came as close as one could possibly get getting an "L" rating).

First up, Transformers, Michael Bay does it again, delivering an action pact success... I knew that the action would be just fine under his direction (he was also the director of Bad Boys, Armageddon, The Rock, The Island and Pearl Harbor and probably a little known fact - the Aawon Buuh Got Milk commercial). Anyway, back to the movie. If you liked the cartoon you will like the movie... there is some terrible humor mixed in to the classic lines of "Roll out" and "You failed me again starscream" which was excellent... I will not give away the movie, but the scene with Bumblebee and the young couple is priceless. I was entertained throughout the movie and highly recommend it for just about anyone who is at least a teenager... I left the theater thinking that all the cars in the parking lot were actually transformers and wondered if they were autobots or deceptacons... always a good sign.

After going back to my buddy's place to put up a fence for his new dog, we decided to go back and see the latest installment of Die Hard, mostly because it was Independence Day and we didn't feel like Transformers got us into that patriotic spirit. This one I was not sure about, I wanted to see it, but would it be as good as the original or the third (the second one was just ok)... but I took some solace in the fact that I had the same doubts about Die Hard with a vengence. The movie was just what I needed... action packed movie that takes place right around Independence Day. His daughter, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, is not only good looking, but she is tough and smart (she goes to Rutgers!) and was a pleasent addition to the movie. She compliments her father and comes a long way from saying "McClane residence, Lucy McClane speaking" in the original Die Hard (the best Christmas movie ever made). The hacking portion of the movie was also quite interesting and the cross between the old school McClane and the atypical techies of this generation is a nice little side story (but the fact that Matt Farrell does not like Creedence Clearwater Revival is a little off-putting). I am also a big Kevin Smith fan and didn't realize he was in the movie, excellent job. The action gets a little unbelievable at times, but it is still worth while. Two thumbs up for me!

So, go out grab some popping corn and enjoy!

HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY!

2007-07-04T07:44:00.000-04:00

No, not THAT Independence Day... Seriously though, a big thank you to all the men and women who have given their lives for the freedoms that we so often take for granted. I wish you all a happy and safe 4th of July. I am pretty much making this a low key 4th... just hanging around and probably going to see Transformers, a staple of my childhood. There are fewer places to see fireworks in the middle of the week, and I have done the Macy's Day Fireworks before and don't feel a need to go through all that work again. However, I would recommend the best way to view the fireworks - from the water!. I took this picture from the time I went, it's hard to see but the statue of Liberty is there and you can see them from the East River too and it's not too expensive. In any case, whatever you are all doing I hope that it is fun and not dangerous.

So, I decided to join Facebook upon a request from one of my friends, I am not sure if it will be blocked at St. Mary's, but I am enjoying it thus far. I have been turned into a zombie and now have a pet dragon named swampy, come on by and pet him!

I am going to keep this posting pretty short since it is a day off for me :), but first Your 4th of July Moment of Zen... if you can't see fireworks, make your own!

Pauline Year announced!

2007-07-02T15:15:00.000-04:00

The Vatican issued a statement on June 28 that there will be a Pauline Year to celebrate the 2000 anniversary of his birth which most historians claim to be between 7 AD and 10 AD. The year will start on June 28, 2008. While this may not seem like much to many people, I am very enthusiastic that the possibility of my diaconate year will be dedicated to this great apostle. I am quite interested in the ecumenical movement, and I believe there is way too little emphasis on the writings of Paul and what they can translate into today.

Speaking of things from the Vatican, a few days ago my moment of zen had a website about driving, interestingly enough, this document aboutPastoral Care of the Road came out and helped me realize that I still have a long way to go in my practice of true Christian charity. :) I specifically enjoyed reading section III on human aspects and IV Moral aspects of driving. I loved this quote: "Coexistence is a fundamental aspect of human beings and roads should therefore be more human. Motorists are never alone when they are driving, even when no one is sitting beside them. Driving a vehicle is basically a way of relating with and getting closer to other people"(especially when I drive) ", and of integrating within a community of people. This capacity for coexistence, of entering into relations with others, presupposes certain specific qualities in a driver: namely self-mastery, prudence, courtesy, a fitting spirit of service and knowledge of the Highway Code. Selfless assistance should also be provided to those who need it, by giving an example of charity and hospitality." Part two of the document talks about the importance of pastoral ministry for the liberation of street women, which shares an important perspecitve on prostitution as "a form of slavery." Please continue to pray that we continue to try to assist these people rather than judge them.

Well, guess that is all for now, talk to you all soon. Oh and to my friends from the great white North, Happy Belated Canada Day, eh! Pax et bonum!

Busy week

2007-06-30T07:50:00.000-04:00

I had a pretty busy week, or at least a pretty busy end of the week. As you can see from the above picture my sister and nieces came down and I got to have a nice dinner at McCormick & Schmick's which was pretty good. Apparently, they have a deal now that if you sign up for their frequent diners club ($25) you get a $20 gift card immediately and then another $25 in the mail or something along the line... I like the food, but I pretty much only go their once or twice a year. The crab cake trio was excellent, but there isn't too much on the plate.
I also got to realize that I do not follow Jesus in one way, I am not a carpenter. I helped Fr. Sean put up some new cabinets and dressers from Ikea for the new sacristy and it took me much longer than anticipated to finish. Actually I am not quite done, I have got more work to do today after Mass. I like doing work like that (I actually volunteered to do it) and it was a pretty good workout.
I also got a chance to finish setting up my friend's wireless network and transferring data from one PC to another. I guess the fact that I am not in the computer world is starting to finally slip in... it took me much longer to do things then I thought it would and I had a horrible time getting Internet explorer off the ground running, since the new PC only had Netscape on it. I guess the most important thing is that I finally got it to work. I would also like to use this opportunity to remind people to set up a secure wireless network... when helping out my friend he showed me that he really didn't need it since he could access his neigbor's unsecured wireless network and surf the internet that way.

Last night I went to see the Somerset Patriots, a minor league team in Bridgewater, NJ. So, first off thank you to the person that donated the tickets to the Vocations office! I was surprised when I got to the game with my folks that the teams were already playing! I thought I was going senile, but then we found out via the loud speaker that because the game the night before got rained out, today was a double header starting at 5:05. So I got to see a game and a half of baseball, which was nice (although by the end of the fifth in the second game I was ready to call it a night). It was the first time I ever had a Pizzacono which is basically like a cone of pizza. It wasn't too bad (except it was cold), pretty interesting idea basically I just wanted to try it to say I had one. It was also fireworks night so we were treated to an impressive display of pyrotechnics after the game. If you get a chance to go to a game I highly recommend it, much better family type atmosphere.

Speaking of baseball, I read this article on why we should root for the underdog yankees and enjoyed it. I actaully do root for the Yankees when they are not playing the Mets, I mean after all both teams are from New York, so as long as it doesn't affect my team, why not cheer for the city? Go Yanks, Go Mets!

On a sad note, I lost another icon of my childhood WABC-watching days... Joel Siegel passed away. I never really paid too much attention to movie critics sincer I usually only liked the movies they hated and hated the movies they liked, but he had a good personality and was usually pretty funny about his reviews and he always seemed to be smiling. We will miss you Joel! In honor of Mr. Siegel I bring you this blast from my past, for your Moment of Zen... enter the badness.

Sts. Peter and Paul pray for us

2007-06-30T07:19:00.000-04:00

ok, ok, I know it was yesterday, but I was very busy... Anyway, I have always loved this feast day, not only because it celebrates two of the greatest apostles, but because of the different paths they took to become apostles. Especially, today when we tend to focus on everything that is wrong with "the other", the fact that these two men are celebrated together despite their different approaches is powerful. I think that it is telling that the Church makes us celebrate these two men together. Catholics have usually been associated with Peter through the power of the keys while Protestants usually look to Paul and his fervant evangelization, but the Church reminds us all that we are followers of Christ and there is something missing when we deny the Christian name to others because their focus is not identical to ours. I also take solace in the fact that the people that Christ chose were not perfect, Peter would be extremely successful at times and then would fail, Paul started out persecuting Christians but then became one of its greatest advocates. Through the intercession of Saints Peter and Paul may we become more aware of Christian Unity.

There are some things I know and some things I don't

2007-06-25T08:17:00.000-04:00

(or should I say "I don't know butchie instead")like, what is the point of either of my two new favorite shows that are currently on television (Flight of the Conchordes and John from Cincinnati)? What I do know... I like them. I have to rescind my prior posting which said that I cannot recommend the Flight of the Conchords... I MUST recommend it... Mel is so awkward and makes you almost squirm in your seat, but you cannot but help laugh at how Jermaine and Bret try to get out of the situations... coming out of their home in episode one they ran into her (she's their #1, well only, fan) and to get out of the conversation they said they needed to go, when she inquired where they said "home"... "we just came out for some fresh air". Last night's episode had a great song about Inner City Pressure, and a debate on which was better for the band, a tape player or Bret.

As for John from Cincinnati, well the story is progressing, so that's a plus... and someone finally figured out the John isn't too normal (thanks Kai!)... actually I think this would be a great show for all psychologists or those aspiring to be psychologists since I think everyone in the show has some kind of complex or at least the producers of the show. If you missed the show, HBO is going to be showing all of the first three episodes on Thursday night I think... good time to get into it!

Random thoughts

Finally got into some of my summer reading, I am currently reading Jesus of Nazareth. I am about 2 chapters in (I read slow), but it has been excellent thus far. I really liked the foreward where The Holy Father talks about the historical critical method and definitely recommend it as a good read.

The Mets are finally playing well, after a sweep of the A's I am feeling good about their chances against the Cardinals. Perhaps I should make a new bet with my friend jon.

One of the top ESPN bloggers (in my humble opinion), Bruce Feldman, listed his top 10 football movies of all time... while I agree with many, I just like the idea of lists and seeing how they can upset others, so here is my list. Unlike him, I include all types of football movies:

1. Brian's Song - totally agree with his comments, I think they tried to make a remake of this too sometime in the early 2000's, but I don't remember seeing it anywhere.
2. Rudy - call me a girl I guess Bruce, but this is one of my favorites... I also think it is because of the whole vocation scene - escaping into the cloth. Also has a great line about life from the priest... "son, there are two things I have learned in all my years: There is a God, and I'm not him."
3. Remember the Titans - how can this not be on his list? I mean Denzel is in it :)
4. The Waterboy - true underdog movie that has Rush's Tom Sawyer playing at the Burboun Bowl. Still use the line: "You playin the foosball bobby?"
5. Lucas - a love story sure, but what person didn't really cry when Lucas got clobbard, also has a young Charlie Sheen and Jeremy Piven and of course Winona Ryder (and anything with Winona is good :))
6. Jerry Maguire - you had me at hello... great points by Bruce on this one.
7. Everybody's All-American - the struggles of family life and professional athletes - good overall flick.
8. Necessary Roughness - ok, I guess I am showing my age, but this movie reminds me so much of Rutgers football for the longest time that I cannot help but love it. Plus, Kathy Ireland and Sinbad, can you get any more 80's than that?
9. North Dallas Forty - not my favorite, but should be in anyone's top 10.
10. The Longest Yard - the original not the crappy remake.

Honorable mentions (not mentioned by Bruce): Little Giants, Wildcats, Pandemonium in Piscataway.
Movies I have not seen so they could not be rated: Invincible, We are Marshall

Well, that is all for now... of course I cannot leave you without your moment of zen... believe it or not, I did not create this website!

New York State of Mind

2007-06-22T21:33:00.000-04:00

Not quite sure, but the other day I was thinking that I had a lot of pictures of New York, and got the song New York State of Mind by Billy Joel, stuck in my head... so this is what you get...

I know it's not perfect, but figured it wasn't too bad... hope you enjoy it.

Speaking of pointless things, I watched Flight of the Conchordes the other day and although there were a couple of brilliant lines, I just don't think I can recommend the show although it does seem to be right up my ally. I do want to share this little piece of brilliance with you:

I warned you. Of course I found it to be hilarious... yet you will be dumber if you watch it. Basically this is kind of what the show is about, stuff happens, it is painfully uncomfortable to watch and then they go into some random singing which tends to be hilarious. Anyway, I am sure I will keep you informed.

Yesterday was Joey (one of the pastor's dogs) birthday so I gave him a Frosty Paw to commemorate the big day. The dogs go nuts for these things, and I guess I am just out of the loop since I had no idea they made frozen food for dogs... SO BE CAREFUL when you go to your grocer's freezer! I hope to have a pic or two of the pups sometime soon... I am just too lazy right now. Speaking of lazy, I think I am going to see what I can find behind my eyelids... As always, God bless and take care and I will write again soon. Pax et bonum.

It's Clobbering Time!

2007-06-20T20:21:00.000-04:00

I went to see The Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer this afternoon. Basically it is what I expected, nothing more, nothing less. The movie was decent and enjoyable although I think I liked the original better. From playing the Marvel:Ultimate Alliance video game I knew some of the background and was really interested in seeing how they portrayed Galactus. I thought that the storyline was pretty good, and I am sure that seeing Jessica Alba in a wedding dress broke the heart of one of my friends Matt (sorry buddy). In any case, if you enjoyed the first, you probably will enjoy this one, but don't expect anything spectacular.

Speaking of movies, you can see that I added some links to some things that I created and put on youtube. The top one was something I created to commemorate some of my memories over the past few years. The second is all the way on the bottom and I originally created it as part of the end of the year celebration at the seminary two years ago... it has since been eliminated, but I still really like it. Hope you do to! I hope to some more entertainment in the near future, until then, please enjoy your Moment of Zen which although I really am not a fan of American Idol or the countless runoffs, I think it is definitely worth a watch. Pax et bonum.

Great article on Golf and life

2007-06-19T08:01:00.000-04:00

I was surfing around this morning, checking the news, fantasy baseball, the usual... when I came across this article from Morgan Freeman on turning 70. In it he talks about the joys of golf and how it has really had an impact on his life. I have always been a big Morgan Freeman fan ever since the days of him playing Count Dracula on The Electric Company... Anyway, he talks about golf as a lesson of life since he never knew anyone who said they mastered golf or life and encourages us all to continue to swing and try to get better. I thought it was worth a few minutes to read and hope to see you all again on the golf course. and just remember a bad day of golf is always better than a good day of work :).

That's Entertainment...

2007-06-18T16:30:00.000-04:00

So, I was kind of bummed out that the Sopranos are over, and with 24 not being on for another 6 months, I was worried that it would take me a long time to find a new show to get hooked on in between baseball games. I really don't watch all that much TV, and today's shows don't really do much for me. One other show that I really loved that got taken off the air by TNT was Saved, it was a very interesting show about paramedics which delved into a variety of intriguing storylines, especially how it ended (which I won't spoil here) I hope they eventually release it to DVD so I can enjoy the show again, even if it only lasted a year and I never find out what happened, I think it will be a keeper.

Anywho, I think I have found a new show... John from Cincinnati... terrible name (although there is a redeeming quality in the fact that the guy's name is not John and he is not from Cincinnati)... I am still trying to figure out what the heck this show is about, but in any case it keeps my interest and definitely makes me laugh at times. The story pretty much follows the Yost family, Mitch, the grandfather was a great surfer, the best some say, until he hurt his knee, his son, Butchie was also a great surfer but got involved in drugs and now is high most of the time, and his son (Mitch's grandson), Shaun has the family talent although the family from almost all sides is not prepared to let him use it because of their past problems. Along comes John, a guy that apparently comes out of nowhere to tell us that "The End is near", "There are some things I know and there are some things I don't" and "I got my eye on you"... and he basically repeats everything that is said to him... very weird but entertaining (especially in the bathroom). We are not quite sure who this John is, but he continuously asks Butchie "What do you want?". On top of this interesting fellow we have Mitch who thinks he has cancer and has begun to levitate for some reason unbeknownst to us, Ed O'Neill's character (Bill Jacks) who worked for the police department for 16 years and continuously calls them to try to figure out what is going on (and he just stole the water fountain handle from the police station to try to get John's fingerprints run) The story also involves someone (Barry) who Butchie knew when he was younger who has since won mega millions but also has "episodes" which allow him to see things... this was the source of one of the greatest scenes ever in episode one when he was in a room with no furniture, a bottle of wine and a teddy bear and he asks "Do you surf teddy?", makes a couple gestures to make his teddy surf and then flips him over and says "You wiped out"... you can watch it at johnmonad.com and typing in "Teddy" in the search... like I said weird but entertaining... check it out if you get a chance, same time as the Sopranos.

A few weeks ago I also went to go see Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End which a lot of people didn't care for, but I thought was alright. I felt there were times that it got a little too "Johnny Depp-like" i.e. strange, especially when they went to the World's End but it was still entertaining. I think what I liked most about it was that everyone was playing there own angle and so it could have ended in so many different ways... I thought it was nice though. If you haven't seen it yet though, there is a little something after the credits so be sure you stay until the lights are totally on.

This weekend I drove up to see my parents and grandparents for the big father's day/birthday weekend, I was trying to make it a surprise, but I guess I am getting too predictable in my old age, since my parents figured out what I was going to be doing. For Father's Day, I came across this article which reminded me so much of both my father and I... well probably more me... anyway it is pretty good. I also went to Bill's 30th Birthday party down in Brick and got a chance to play some horseshoes and see the newlyweds. I am also very excited to hear that my sister and nieces are heading down here next weekend! During the summer it is a great time to catch up with people but my calendar is quickly filling up, so if you haven't done so, please call or email so we can get together. The summer just flies by... but hopefully I will get some time with everyone!

Oh and more good news: hot off the presses, there are three men from the Diocese of Metuchen that will be entering into formation this year and one of the men will be heading down to St. Mary's!!! It will be nice to have another Jersey brother down in the seminary, so please keep all of our seminarians in your prayers.

I think I have completed the new look of the website, there are new links along the side, including where to find Eucharistic Adoration in Jersey and a link t ovote for this as the Best blog about stuff, so please signup and vote :). I am also toying with the idea of getting rid of the Moment of Zen (sight of the day at the bottom of each posting) and replacing it with a permanent link along the side which would change every so often... I don't know yet though.

Well, I am sure that I have written enough for today. So the only thing left is your moment of Zen... ever need excuses to get off the line? well, here you go!

Come on down....

2007-06-16T08:03:00.000-04:00

was said for the last time by Bob Barker on The Price is Right yesterday. One of the staples of my "staying home from school days" tv shows, Bob Barker has been with us for 35 years on the game show that brought us some of our favorite games: Cliff Hangers, The Grocery Game, and of course PLINKO!. It was funny that I mentioned that this was a memory of the show that I had from staying home from school as I was just surfing for information on the Price is right, I came across this article from the Home News which says the same thing... yet more eloquently... I especially like the Pavlovian response. This was a great game show that reached all age groups, and as I get perhaps a bit too sentimental, I think it is what is missing in today's all sex and violence and "reality TV" that really isn't that real. Anyway, Bob will always have a special place in my heart... especially when he beat up Adam Sandler. There is only one way to end this post, and if you watched the Price is Right, you should know what is coming... Help control the pet population; have your pets spayed or neutered.

Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus

2007-06-14T20:20:00.000-04:00

The Sacred Heart has always had a wonderful place in my own heart since it was in that parish in Clifton in which I really started to become involved in youth ministry which seems like almost eons ago... but this year the solemnity seems a little more important. As some of you know, my friend and brother seminarian Edmund was the recepient of a new heart this past May
(on a first friday!). I figured that some of you not within the diocese would appreciate this wonderful piece that was written in the Catholic Spirit. It has been the source of strength for many people and has been able to touch so many that I see on a regular basis since I am in the same parish that Ed served in last summer. I hope that you can enjoy it as well. I thank God for the many blessings that he has bestowed on my friend and on this solemnity ask you all to continue to pray that he may return to studies in the fall and thank God for the prayers that he has already answered.

The artwork on the top of this page is done by my friend David Myers... I have a holy card that he did with this image a few years ago which still is in my breviary and it is one of my favorite cards that I have. He also did a fabulous rendition of St. Michael the Archangel which is his latest addition to his blog, which is also linked on the right hand side of the page. He does some awesome work which I have quite a few pieces of down in the seminary and highly encourage anyone who wants either religious work or personal work to check out his site.

I pray that all who read this are enflamed with the love that was displayed to us on the road to Calvary... you remain in my thoughts and prayers always and I look forward to writing to you all again soon.

What to do...

2007-06-11T20:28:00.000-04:00

Mr. Hudak after the last episode of the Sopranos.

so, the Sopranos have come and gone, and I think I am the only person in the world to like how it ended... I mean no one was going to be happy anyway, but first of all it ended with "Don't Stop Believing" by Journey, one of my all time favorite songs, so it is automatically a good show... other than that I think it was an interesting take, first of all to keep everyone guessing, then to have everyone call the cable operators to complain followed by throwing a shoe at the TV when they realized it was over. I think it is a story about how Tony was to live, everything looking over his shoulder, never being sure who each person was and where they stand... interesting take on life. So, now that it is all over, I guess I should tell you what else is going on in my life, huh?

Life is good... I have been meaning to upload some recent shots from all over the place, so now is as good as time as any... As you can see I went to John and Beth's wedding about a week ago... The food was great, the ride was enjoyable (even during rush hour :)), and I even got to dance a bit, which was nice, since I don't remember the last time I danced. It was a great time but also a busy weekend. I was all over the state of NJ... up to Bayonne for the wedding and rehearsal dinner, then had our ordination (Metuchen) to the Priesthood on Saturday morning followed by a trip to my friend Mike's first Mass as a Deacon, then Sunday was in the parish and then swinging over to St. Bernard's for Fr. Joe and Fr. Tim's 20th and 15th anniversary Mass and then concluded with Fr. Bede Kim's first Mass as a priest at Sacred Heart in New Brunswick. Needless to say I was beat after that weekend and it has taken me this long to recover! The picture to the left was one of the few pictures from Trenton's priesthood ordination that came out pretty well... Fr. Bud is about to lay hands on Fr. Alberto Tamayo... it was such a great blessing to see friends from our neighboring diocese get ordained and to get to spend a little bit of time with each of them. Here are some articles about three of my friends who were ordained for Trenton: Fr. Alberto Tamayo, Fr. Joselito Noche, and last but certainly not least, Fr. Erin Brown. Enjoy!

This week is birthday week for me... Dad's was yesterday, Mom's on the 16th and Billy's big one is coming up in two days!!! I remember when I turned 30... it seems like it was just yesterday... oh wait it pretty much was! Anyway, 30 feels no different to me than 28 or 29... actually I really don't remember my age most of the time, guess forgetfulness comes with old age!

Well, I have lots more to say, but also need to get some work done, the pictures should be posted on Webshots sometime shortly... sorry about being a slacker recently.

And now, the moment you have all been waiting for your moment of zen what does your phone number spell, what about your friends??? hours of fun to be had... well at least a few minutes. God bless you always and write to you soon!

What are you tawkin about?

2007-06-09T08:05:00.000-04:00

Well, it is finally here (well, almost), the last episode of The Sopranos is upon us... and I am both excited to see how it ends and sad to know that this will be the last episode we see. Anywho, I am a happy ending kind of guy, so my prediction is that Tony winds up ok in the end. Phil definitely needs to get taken out, no question about that... perhaps by someone we don't expect... Little Carmine??? AJ is a wild card, I can see him either taking himself out, getting upset with Tony and fighting back (taking out one's father would be a pretty interesting twist) or finally taking a little charge and joining the family business, again, being a happy ending kind of guy, I have to go with the latter... someone close to Tony still needs to get clipped and I am kind of hoping that Janice, now flipping out after the loss of Bobby wants to take something into her own hands and whacked. That is probably just wishful thinking, but at least I will not have to hear her whiny voice anymore after tonight. Some people think Ade is going to come back, but I think we have more of a shot of the Russian from the pine barrens episode... actually I'd love to see a little help from Furio, but I think that would be too much story line to get into at the last episode. So... where does that lead us? who knows... but for what it is worth... I say Tony survives, but the Feds will arrest him finally, Phil gets taken out by Little Carmine, AJ will kill someone, Silvio will survive and take over the family while Tony is in jail and Paulie will still be Paulie (much to my happiness)... oh and almost everyone will complain that it could have been better with one little tweak here or there. But, we all shall see tomorrow night... enjoy yous guys!

Ch...Ch...Ch...Ch...Changes

2007-05-26T14:50:00.000-04:00

turn to face the strain... Ch... Ch... Changes... As you can see I made some minor changes to the webpage, but I am still working on some things. Speaking of changes, it is now official: Rev. Thomas Hurst (pictured left) is our new rector at St. Mary's! It will be strange next year that the incoming guys who come to seminary early for orientation will arguably know the rector better than the returning students since they will have about four days with him. I am looking forward to the getting to know Fr. Hurst and I think we all are happy that this process has finally come to a close - we all tend to fear the unknown. It's hard to believe that I will be entering into 3rd theology next year... it just seemed like yesterday that I started. Oh well, such is life.

So, I decided to make this blog a little more graphic, as you can see... so there are a few more links, but most of the old ones have been transferred to buttons that were either made or stolen (legally of course :)) The one that I would really like to call your attention to is Kiva.org. I don't believe that I have written about this before, but it is a way to get involved and make a difference by financing microloans - lending money to people in need and when it gets repaid you can help finance others. One of my friends at school, Mike Neugent, who will be ordained to the diaconate next week in Trenton (sorry no link), showed me this group and we are both checking it out. So far I have been very pleased and hope to give more information as my loanee begins to pay back her loan. Feel free to check it out and stay tune for more updates.

So, while I am typing, I am also watching the Big East Championship game for baseball and it looks like the team will put the exclamation point on a great season for RU. Not only did RU football finish #12 and won the Texas Bowl and the Women's basketball team made it to the Championship game, but it looks like the baseball team will be on their way to the NCAA tournament and perhaps the College World Series. Still a long way away as there are 64 teams that make the tourney and only 8 to Omaha, but this is step #1. They are up 7-1 going into the 9th.

I also wanted to take this opportunity to wish you all a happy Memorial Day and continue to be thankful for all of the men and women who gave their lives so that we can live with the freedoms that we have today. Drive safe and remember to buckle your safety belts (especially if you don't want a ticket!). May God bless you always and I will talk to you soon.

And now... Your moment of Zen - an addicting game... enter your top score under "St Marys and friends" if you dare :)

Back at last!

2007-05-22T17:11:00.000-04:00

Yes, Yes I know, same old Keith not updating for eons at a time... well, I came back, much like Chloe did to all of our delight (well mine at least)... I was worried when I saw the previews of her falling down that she was going to be killed in the final episode, but luckily she was just tired and we found out she was pregnant too! Hopefully this means she is on for a loooong time! I have heard lots of people comment how they liked the ending of 24 this year since it tied up all the loose ends and kind of ended on a high note rather than a shocking downer... but I still think it was missing a little something... this is the first time I don't remember really wanting to see what is going to happen next year right away. I guess it will keep us in suspense once the next season roles around, but there is little to wonder or worry about over the next few months, other then when the heck are they going to kill off kim... Anyway another big thumbs up from me on this season although season 2 is still my favorite.

As for the only other show I watch on a regular basis, The Sopranos is off and running quite well, but I am a little bummed that there are only two episodes left of it. I was a bit shocked when I saw Tony use a little American History X action last week, but nothing quite hit me as Tony taking out Christopher... should be a great ending this month.

Now, what else has been going on... lots... I am done with school for the semester and it was a really good year, but I am also happy to be in a parish now. I am located at Our Lady of the Mount in Warren, NJ and will be here until the beginning of August. I just moved in yesterday and hit the ground running. It is a wonderful parish and I have already begun visiting some of the primary care facilities and doing some office work. Wednesdays will be my day off so hopefully I will be able to see you all sometime soon.

I also moved into my new room at the seminary... It is only two doors down from my old room, but it is bigger and nicer in my humble opinion. I think the most important thing is that it made me get rid of some of the garbage that I had accummulated over the past three years, which was quite substantial. I still have tons of stuff, but am working on whittling it down. I just read an article on msnbc about the amount of things college students throw out and that schools have really begun to work on giving this stuff to the needy, which I think is great since most of the time we just throw things out. I am definitely in this category of people that needs to work with less stuff that I get atteched too, I have a long way to go.

I have gone to a couple of ordinations recently. In our diocese, Rev. Mr. Jack O'Kane was ordained to the deaconate and Rev. Mr. Bede Kim will be ordained to the priesthood on June 2. Then, last week I went to Trenton for their priesthood ordinations. Unfortunately, I will not be able to make it to their deaconate as it occurs on the same day as our priesthood, but am planning on going to my friend Mike's first Mass as a deacon. That weekend is going to be crazy as it is also the weekend of John's wedding and Fr. Joe and Fr. Tim's (from St. Bernard's) anniversary celebration. Not to mention the regular weekend work we have here at OLM. The ordinations were beautiful and once I charge the batteries for my camera I will upload some pics of Trenton.

OK, I am going to call it a night here, but promise that more updates will be coming more frequently. I continue to pray for you all and ask that you keep doing the same for me. May God bless you always!

And now for your Moment of Zen you know you all love doing it in real life, now you don't even need to buy anything!!!!

New look

2007-02-28T06:53:00.000-05:00

yes I know, I am not one that likes change, but I figured this one was for the better. I needed to update the page anyway and decided to look around at their new templates. I liked this one because it reminded me of a NYC subway map and driving in Jersey, although I am pretty sure it is something totally different, I still liked it. Anyway, I hope you like it as much as I do, since I rarely need to see that page.

Baseball spring training starts today! It will be nice to see my beloved Mets take the field again even though it is not real baseball quite yet. Speaking of baseball, I have started my fantasy baseball league and this year we had quite a response, 16 teams in the league! It should make it for an awfully interesting draft and season. I am really looking forward to it and it is nice since I had nothing really inbetween football season and now since RU basketball is in the toilet and I can't get into hockey like I used to (at least not until the playoffs).

I read this interesting article about narcissim in college students and have long believe a lot of what it has posited actually a bit more than what was written. We are so focused today on making sure that everyone is treated absolutely the same that we lose sight of reality. The tag lines in the article really jump out (as I guess they are supposed to) "We're all above average" - I am amazed at how upset people get when they don't get an A... it has become the new C, anything lower and we think we are failing. I would like to go on record here as saying I am more than happy to accept a C, if it is fairly deserved, if I just did what was acceptable to learn what I needed and did nothing extraordinary. I am reminded of my first Physics exam in which I scored a 18 out of 200, I was saddened because I thought I was going to fail out of school, but then found out the average was a 14, and I got a C+. It showed how little I actually knew in the subject and didn't give me an overall sense of hubris, while I still did better than average. "I am special, I am special" - true we are all special and all have unique gifts, but, in my opinion, it is meant to be in service to others, somewhere we have lost that idea and it has turned inward to say we don't need others in any way. Well, I am getting off my soapbox and out of the limelight, I'd be interested to hear your feedback though!

I am not sure how long the link above will last, I noticed that the link for last postings moment of zen is already removed (it was about a guy who broke the world record for squat thrusts on an elephant, so you didn't really miss much), but for my penance, this time I will provide two... Moment of Zen #1 for those of you who are really bored and Moment of Zen #2 for those of us who are proud to be from New Jersey.

Until next time, God bless and take care!

It's Time to Re-Lent

2007-02-26T07:16:00.000-05:00

Good Morning! I am back in Baltimore after a wonderful retreat and some time off... it is amazing how much we are creatures of our environment, how everyone seems to "need" the time off after a few weeks back at school (4T guys recovering from Comps not included, they deserve it) - I am no different, but I also remember working long days in the past and only taking two out of my three weeks of vacation in the year, I just think it is funny how quick we adapt and find reason to complain. Anyway, as I said my retreat was excellent, it was just what I had hoped for. I went to St. Mary's Abbey a Benedictine Abbey in Morristown and highly recommend it to anyone desiring to go on retreat. The monks were wonderful, allowed me to pray with them, and offered wonderful hospitality. The food was excellent, although if you plan on going they have breakfast and dinner in silence so be prepared. I knew that they had meals in silence and enjoyed it so much that I am going to incorporate some of it in my Lenten practices, one meal per day will be in silence. Everyone knows I talk to much anyway and I think it will be a good idea to listen more. I also had the opportunity to hike a bit while on retreat and spent some quality time at Morristown National Park, specifically Jockey Hollow. I had been there before but it was nice to be able to go when the snow was all around and kind of set the mood as well.

Speaking of snow, we got a bit yesterday and the drive down was not all that fun. Lots of cars going very slowly which was a little bit frustrating since once I got into Maryland it was all rain and the roads were not that bad. It is like a different culture down here during the winter though and I still am not used to it. But Spring is hoped for eternal... yesterday Bill, his dad and I went to a golf show and the thoughts of putting on a beautiful green in the 70 degrees of June in Jersey brought a smile to my face as I was taking deep breaths to calm myself down as someone was going 20 in the left lane of the highway. We are hoping to have a little trip down here to watch the Yanks play at Camden Yards in September and perhaps go out to Ocean City to play some golf on the same time. I am already looking forward to that, the courses that we looked at were beautiful.

Anywho, I am going to keep this short since I need to get down to Sulpician Meditation and start my day. So, until next time, God Bless and take care. Oh and don't forget Your Moment of Zen, reminding you to always go for the gold.

sometimes I wish I were you...

2007-02-06T08:53:00.000-05:00

so that I could be friends with me... this funny but arrogant statement was highlighted the other day on AOL IM and I originally left it on as my away message cause I thought it would bring a little laugh. I don't know if it was from the study of family dynamics in my pastoral theology class or a discussion that I had with an old friend about what he recieved anonymously or perhaps it is the typical self analysis that I do before lent, but I took some time and reflected on this and wanted to share it with you. I pondered what is it like to be friends with me? How do others see me and is that how I want them to see me? I guess this came about when thinking about conversations I have had with other friends and misinterpreting what they said or how they said it, there were times that I asked for clarification or my reaction signaled that I had not comprehended what they meant, but a couple times, I did or said nothing... how often do we all do this? I like to think of myself as pretty content with who I am and not worried about what the other thinks and I believe this is still the case, but still wonder how it is percieved. Now don't get me wrong, I don't want six billion replies on the subject telling me who I am to other people, but it was something that I thought was worth thinking about for all of us. I encourage us all to think about this as we approach Lent and look for ways to better ourselves, not for the sake of the other, but for the sake of ourselves and who we want to be.

In what has become a small tradition now, Saturday marked the feast of St. Blase and the blessing of the throats, and now I am in my room sick. I finally figured it out two years ago (after getting sick for five or six years in a row within two weeks of the feast day) - it is a blessing for other people not to hear me talk! Unfortunately for you, I still have a keyboard and fingers :). Seriously though, I am not overly sick, just really off; I haven't found a solid sleeping pattern for about a week now and have just been sluggish. I decided to just take some time in my room today to try and recover which stinks cause I hate missing classes, but hopefully I will back up and running tomorrow... we shall see.

The Super Bowl was one of the worst games I have ever watched (I actually started falling asleep twice in the 4th quarter), but the food was good and so was the company as most of the house came down for the super bowl party. I thought the commercials were pretty brutal, I don't think I will ever eat a snickers again. I did like the commercial about the robot arm though, and rock paper scissors and the blockbuster 'mouse' ad weren't too bad either. '24' on the other hand was great last night (SPOILERS ahead - if you didn't watch it skip to the next paragraph). Some of the show was kind of predictable - I mean everyone kind of figured out that it was going to be Morris' picture on the screen, but I also guessed that Jack's father was involved in the whole thing when he shot the other guard. There are small things that bothered me last night though, 1) why was Jack's father able to see Jack interrogating Grahm? I mean come on, how about following some protocol sometimes at least. 2) Why did they leave everything in Grahm so his dad could just inject him? and 3) if they left the tubes in why didn't they leave the cameras on so that they knew he was involved? 4) Does every Vice President hate the President as much as in this show? OK, that's enough for now...

Just remember next week we get TWO new episodes of 24 starting at 8PM!!! Keith is happy :). National letter of intent signing day is tomorrow (college football), this is when all of the players that said they were coming to Rutgers usually sign on the dotted line to make it official. There have been last minute switches, although I am not a big fan of that, and some people, like Antwain Easterling the #5 RB in the country, have not decided. *cough* *cough* I think I will still be sick tomorrow ;). It is shaping up to be an awesome class though and am just happy for my beloved Scarlet Knights, although I may not be able to see them anymore as there has been a hold on new season tickets because of interest (now a 2000 person waiting list) and I no longer have season tickets since I moved to Baltimore. The single game ticket may no longer be available, which is great for the university, but not so great for me. Oh well, such is life, but luckily I still have some friends who might be able to help out.

Anyway, I should stop writing now since I am cold and need to hop back in bed (life is so tough). Hope all is going well wherever you may be and I will talk to you soon. oh, and today's moment of zen comes from a brother seminarian who shares a similar sense of humor - I addicted him to Pearls before Swine and he sent me this beauty - start from the bottom and work your way up. Pax et bonum.

Is nothing safe anymore?

2007-02-01T04:42:00.000-05:00

uhhh... I apologize to those who like to use the comments section to comment back, I needed to add word verification since I was getting spam on the comments. I tried to delete them as soon as I saw them, but apologize if you saw some commercials for online medications - I think it is quite obvious that I did not support them. I hope I do not have to go the route of taking off the anonymous posting since I think people should be free to comment away if they read and do not need to login, but if it does become a hinderance I will change it. My apologies again. Pax et bonum.

Long semester already?

2007-01-31T05:48:00.001-05:00

The spring semester is always really difficult to get into, we come back and have a day of recollection, Martin Luther King Day off and the March for Life and it is hard to get into a good rhythm. In any case, things are going very well, although I have lots of things to do. I ran into some issues making the DVD for Guatemala and have to re-record some things which I am not happy about since it means I basically have to start all over again :( I am also working on a DVD project here at the seminary which should be able to challenge my skills, but luckily I am working with another extremely talented seminarian who will help out in some of the editing department on his PC.

Classes are going really well, I have learned quite a bit about how I talk (or should I say tawk) in my preaching class and am just about to the stage where we have our first exams and papers due, so I am sure I will be MIA for a bit again.

The March for Life was really great to attend (I try to go every year), although it seemed like it took longer to get started this year or maybe I just was cold and wanted to get moving. I have always enjoyed the youth Mass that precedes the march, it is wonderful to see so many young people (they fill the MCI Center every year) as well as the various seminaries that are represented. I got to see a couple of recent St. Mary's graduates come back from Worcester and Syracuse to be a part of the group of priests that vests for the Mass which is always nice to see.

I have been spending Mondays and Wednesdays in the parish (Immaculate Conception) and visiting primary care facilities to have communion services and visit some of those who cannot make it down to the service to bring them the Blessed Sacrament and just chat with them a while. I also have begun a catechetical program with a woman in one of the homes who wants to become Catholic which has been quite fulfilling for me. I love having the scholastic work, but being able to spend time with these people really helps me to be motivated.

I don't think I wrote about it, but I lost a bet last year to a dear friend and ex-co-worker from St. Louis last year when my beloved New York Metropolitans lost to the St. Louis Cardinals in the NLCS. Well the bet was to show up in our city with the opposing teams cap on, and I just thought that it was only fair that I shared the picture with everyone, hopefully seeing that I am a good sport and that it is only a game... and I still beat you in fantasy baseball Jon (and fantasy football and pick 'em), so who has the last laugh now? and don't you forget it! :) (Yahoo! ID required for link)

The Super Bowl is this weekend and the party should be pretty good in the Donnelly, I decided to stay in house this year to be a little more cost effective, but we will be having wings, egg rolls, meatballs, nachos, giant subs, I think I am going to make some quesadillas and of course lots of soda and beer. I will be happy with whoever wins, but since I am usually a fan of the underdog and the NFC I may pull for da Bears. If Ditka were to play God who would win... I think God takes it on a late field goal... ooooo.

Well my friends, it is time to go and start my day, what can I say, I need coffee... and your moment of zen this week is in honor of the super bowl... the best commercial ever.

Greetings from Texas!

2006-12-30T06:07:00.000-05:00

First off, MERRY CHRISTMAS!!! I wanted to write a bit before the holidays, but just got busy, so I hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas or Happy Hanukkah for my Jewish friends and thank you all for the well wishes for a happy birthday, it was nice and quiet and pretty uneventful, I did fix Fr. Joe's hard drive though, so that was a nice birthday present.

Anyswho... I am now in Houston, in case you didn't know. Bill and I came for the Texas Bowl and took a couple of days to hang out and check out some stuff. The game was awesome, if you didn't see it, it was pretty much a butt kicking, 37-10, but the game was actually still in question at halftime, even though RU was outplaying K-State in just about every facet of the game. Anyway, it was a great experience and I am just glad I could see Rutgers first bowl game. Next year, hopefully we get some of you other guys out here as well, it's a blast!

We also went to the Johnson Space Center on Thursday and yesterday we went down to Galveston. The weather wasn't perfect... actually it was pretty wet, but it didn't stop us from having some fun. We went to an offshore oil rig museum, and a movie about the great storm, a hurricane that hit Galveston back in 1900 and killed about 6,000 people, and then went to the beach to check out the Gulf of Mexico which was nice and choppy. After that we went searching for a house that Bill's Dad used to have and the hometown of both Sue and Joe and finally found it after a couple of mistakes and talking to a scary lady with a dog. Today is our last full day here before flying out, we were planning on getting in a round of golf, but the weather does not seem to be giving us much of a shot at that, so we are going to go around Houston and take a tour of the Saint Arnold Brewery.

Well, I guess that is enough for now, I hope to post lots of pictures on webshots when I get back. Until then, I hope all is going well and I wish you all a happy and healthy New Year! But first, your moment of zen... it's how I handle business, it's a metaphor... but that actually happened though. God bless and take care!

Back in Jersey!

2006-12-16T06:31:00.000-05:00

I am finally back in Jersey!!! Yes, I know I was just here 3 weeks ago for Thanksgiving, but I missed it. I had a really loooooong trip yesterday and by the time I got in I was just ready to pass out. First, I had car issues I still don't know what the deal was... I tried to start the car and it turned over and then it was just died (kind of reminded me of working with a snowblower, if the choke wasn't set properly). Anyway, I checked everything fluid wise and tried to see if there was anything else that could have caused the problem before calling the maintenance guy, when he finally got there it just turned over and was like normal... so I am crossing my fingers that everything works again today. So that brought me to about 2 PM, and I was trying to make it back for a Holy Hour for Vocations in Somerville at 7. Well I was still in Philly at 6 so needless to say I didn't make it :(... sorry Seton Hall guys and all considering vocations, please know that I was united with you in prayer though. On another note, please pray for a special intention of mine for a seminarian who is no longer studying for the priesthood, that he may have the grace and wisdom of Our Lord during this difficult time. Thank you it means a lot to me. If you are interested in vocations, I highly recommend viewing the fishers of men video I think it is excellent and own a copy if you cannot get the website to work.

Now I am taking a day or two to hang out with Bill, John, Beth and Philly and do our normal ginger bread house (I am sure pictures will follow in the next posting) before heading to St. Bernard's for Christmas. I hope to get out to OLMV to say hello as well... otherwise I am working on videos for Guatemala (yes I haven't finished it yet) and another special thing for St. Mary's. Plus I still have most of my Christmas shopping to do, so it should be a pretty busy time for me. one second, time for a coffee break. ok, much better now. Speaking of breaks, yesterday's pearls before swine was brilliant (note that there is a link to pearls before swine over on the right)

My recommendation for a healthy living other than praying, working out, and eating right includes reading pearls every morning.

I think in addition to all the stuff that I need to get done and want to get done, I also am going to try to find some time to read. Apparently the new Michael Crichton novel looks like something I'd like to read, but I still have a lot on my reading list to catch up on, so we'll see how that goes.

I still have a trip to the Texas Bowl to work out, I am trying to get my old college buddy Mike to go as well since he bleeds Scarlet (well, I guess we all kind of do...), but he came into his wedding reception to the RU fight song. As Dr. Constantinides might say.... YEZZZZZZZZ! Oh and speaking of Rutgers Chemical Engineering, congrats to Caleb Bermudez, who is now engaged!!!!

OK, well it is time to get another cup o' joe and see if my truck works before taking Philly for a walk... but first, your moment of zen, a classic. hope your Advent season is going well!!! Hope to hear from you soon. God bless and take care!

Our Lady of Guadalupe

2006-12-12T10:12:00.000-05:00

Today is the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe and I just felt that I should write something to thank our Blessed Mother for her intercession on our behalf, especially with the assistance that we all need during this time of exams. I am also thinking of the wonderful people that I met this past summer on my trip to Guatemala since this feast usually makes me think of the people of Mexico and Central America. Pray for us, O Holy Mother of God, that we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ!

Such a slacker, holidays and finals

2006-12-10T08:32:00.000-05:00

LOOK OUT CHRIS, HERE IT COMES!!!! YOUR BIRTHDAY!!!! As I start off this new blog entry, I just want to wish my big sis a very very happy birthday in a couple days.

Other than that, yes, I know same as always, Keith is slacking off and not getting updates to his blog. Actually things have been quite busy recently (I know I always say that). I was all over the place from a week before Thanksgiving up (mostly in the Diocese of Metuchen) and have only been greeted with papers and finals coming back to St. Mary's. Oh and add to that that I was sick for like this whole past week and it has been none too fun for me. But enough about complaining, things are getting done and so I decided to write to the blog before it was over a month that people were waiting to hear from me. So, again my apologies and thanks for understanding (even if you don't). And if you don't, I will hit you with a snow ball.

Let's see now, Thanksgiving went really well, just before hand I got to serve as MC for Bishop Hughes at two Confirmations at St. Bernard's in Bridgewater which was a great experience. Later that weekend we celebrated our 25th Anniversary as a Diocese with a Mass and a dinner before I headed home for the holiday.

As usual, the high school crew got together (now more and more with their spouses and soon to be children :) ) and reminisced about the old days. As you can see from this wonderful picture taken at Cheeseburger in Paradise, we are not all that different from when we were in high school (i.e. a little weird), but Steve and John we always knew that about them! I was really happy to see Nicole and Ryan come up and got to spend a little bit of quality time, never quite enough, catching up there. Then a few more friends showed up for the yearly breakfast, although this year we changed venues from IHOP to the Park West Diner and for the first time since my youth ministry days I needed to call ahead for a table of 22. Unfortunately, the weather was cold and wet all Thanksgiving morning, so only a couple of us decided to venture out to the football game. Oh did I fail to mention that Clifton went on to win that game and headed to the playoffs where they became the 2006 Group 4 North 1 Champions! GO MUSTANGS!!!! The band did not perform because it just was not possible (although, back in my days we would have tried ;) ) but I did get to see Mr. Morgan and wish him and his family the best before we left a little after halftime. Anyway, it was a great time and I am glad that I got to spend some time with you. Dinner with the folks and grandparents was uneventful, but very very enjoyable, dad made pumpkin soup which wasn't too bad. Then I passed out on the couch as usual... you can't go wrong with Turkey Day. I finished up the weekend hanging out with John, Beth and Bill in North Brunswick, doing some Christmas shopping and forgetting an apple pie that Sue baked for me in their condo. Luckily, I knew I was going to see Bill the next week when I headed up to the Eagles - Panthers game in Philly and I enjoyed every last bit of that pie since. THANKS AGAIN SUE!!!!

Finals are quickly approaching, actually they take place this week! It is not too bad though, I have two exams and two papers to finish up. I hope to finish one paper today and start on the second and already have my study questions done for the exams. I will be heading back somewhere around the 15th and staying at St. Bernard's in Bridgewater until Christmas Morning when I will head back to Clifton for two days before leaving for Texas and the Scarlet Knights bowl game against Kansas State, buy your tickets today!!! It will be my first time back in Houston since September 11 (I was on a business trip at the time), so I wonder if it is going to seem weird being down there again. Anyway, I'll be back on the 31st and then head back to Baltimore on the 8th of January. I am available to do stuff between the 15th and the 23rd of December, but will be in Central Jersey. Anywho, wish me luck on my finals and I will talk to you all soon! God Bless and take care!

Oh and don't forget in honor of bowl season, here is Your site of the Day

Happy Belated Veteran's Day!

2006-11-12T07:17:00.000-05:00

Good Morning! I wanted to write yesterday, but just didn't get around to it... so a quick thank you to all the Veterans who have given us the freedom that we have today.
I had an AWESOME weekend... all starting with my beloved Scarlet Knights beating Louisville! I followed that up Friday night with the Def Leppard & Journey concert at 1st Mariner Arena. I had seen Journey before (2003, with Styx and REO Speedwagon), so I knew what I was going to get there, but I must say that I was impressed with Def Leppard, they ROCKED! One of my friend's said that it brought back memories of high school, and I replied that it wasn't too difficult to see why... just take all the people that would go to a Def Leppard concert back in the 80's and imagine them doing the same thing 20 years later :). Actually, I was kind of surprised that there were so many young people there. In any case it was a great show and if you get a chance to see them you have my recommendation - take that as you will.
Finally, yesterday was a light day, I went to mass, had a prayer vigil at an abortion clinic in a residential complex, and then just hung out and watched football most of the day until I needed to be in the parish for the 5 PM Mass (which is nice since it means I have a totally open day today to get class work done). Then went out to dinner at Thai One On with a couple Seminarians before going to see Borat. The movie was very funny, but also very crude at times, so consider yourself warned. I came back to the sem, and watched some more college football before hitting the sack... more upsets, so I am interested to see how far RU climbs in the polls, in any case I believe it will be the highest ranking ever for Rutgers. I am a little nervous about the Cincinnati game next week since I think they have a pretty good team and are playing at home after the Knights had an emotional win. So, I am sure the state of NJ will be waiting for a few more hours to see how the polls work themselves out.

Last weekend I also had a pretty good time as John and Beth came to visit me :)... It was only a short visit, went out to dinner, hung out (watched and sang along with hits of the 1970's on an infomercial) then the next day we went to the Inner Harbor and I gave a small tour of the seminary. It was just really nice to see some friends, even if it is only for a little while. The weather was absolutely beautiful, especially for a Saturday in November. Actually it has been quite warm here and I would really like it to cool down a little bit, I don't feel like we have really had Autumn yet. Anyway, I took some pictures from the tallest five sided building in the world, The world trade center in the Inner Harbor. Here is one of them looking out into the Chesepeake Bay

The one bad thing (well, there are a couple of bad things), but one of them about not writing as often as I would like is that I have so much to talk about... We also had our Halloween Party in the seminary on the 31st, so I got to have some real fun decorating. As you can see I went a little crazy with Black Light, but hey it is really cool. There are a lot more pictures that were taken by me, but some of the better ones were taken by another seminarian here, Chris Hess. Can you guess who made the pumpkin??? Anyway, it was a good time as you can see.

I am really looking forward to Turkey Day, which amazingly is coming up really soon! I actually am going to be quite busy leading up to it though as the Bishops are in town this week, so I have a breakfast and a Mass to serve on top of my normal duties here. We also have Candidacy for those Seminarians who are going to be receiving Diaconate later this year, on Thursday. Then I was asked to serve as MC at St. Bernard's for their Confirmation this Friday and Saturday before celebrating the 25th Anniversary Mass of the Diocese of Metuchen. Oh and I have a paper to complete too, so I hope to get a lot of that work done today. Anyway, I hope to see a lot of you who read this blog around Thanksgiving and if I do not, I hope and pray that you have a happy and healthy one with lots of napping and football. May God bless you always!

Almost forgot: your site of the day is actually just going to be a picture today (hey it's my blog, deal with it)... so here you go, your moment of zen:

Been Busy...

2006-10-27T06:49:00.000-04:00

Ok, again, I have been a bit busy... not too busy, but what can I say, I just can't get myself in the mood to write sometimes; I also haven't been able to get myself to clean my room either... you know it is bad when clean laundry is sitting on your floor for over a week. Anywho, things are going well, I had a little bit of a cold about a week ago and had a great visit from Bill two weeks ago where we went to the Rutgers-Navy game in Annapolis and played a round of golf at Pine Ridge, by far the nicest municipal course in Baltimore. It was freezing though at the end of the round and we stopped after 15 since the people ahead of us (mostly twosomes too which was weird) were playing so slow. Both Bill and I forgot our camera, so no pictures of that :(. The Navy game was awesome, a 34-0 shallacking (speld rong?) - we had tickets on the hill since the game was the largest in Navy history, but it was still a good time. Here is a picture from the end of the game when Navy and RU listened to each others fight songs ... total class Also, went to Padonia Station to watch the RU - Pitt game last week with my buddy Vic, great atmosphere and awesome wings... I may like it even better than Bill Bateman's to watch sports. This week we try and tackle UConn arguably our biggest rival in the first visit back to Piscataway since Sept. 28, I think it is going to be a madhouse on Sunday night and just hope there is not a let down... although this team is different than past Rutgers teams and I am sure they will be well prepared - then in little over a week what will be the biggest game in RU history... but let's not get ahead of ourselves, GO RU, tame the Huskies!

Also had the St. Mary's Golf tournament on Monday, the teams were named for NCAA conferences and I was a proud member of Team Big East - two Syracuse guys, the rector (who likes UConn at least for basketball) and myself. This is a picture from the end of the day on the 18th, we again played pretty late and it was getting chilly, but the sunset and the fall foliage, just made this an awesome shot.
Since it was a long weekend we only had two other teams - team ACC and team I-A Independents, and thanks to the fantastic play of the Fr. Leavitt, our team finished at +1 and won the tournament. I had a total of four drives taken (we played best ball and a team needed to take two drives from each person, and although I was inconsistent, I was happy with the way I played... I also hit a really nice long putt to give us a birdie on the back nine when we really needed it. Any day of golf is better than working though and my favorite hole was definitely the 19th.

Classes are going well, I have a huge paper due next week for my Johannine class, which most of the research is done for, just need to type it up, so it shouldn't be too bad. Also it is now getting to be time for midterms and I have one each of the next two weeks. So, don't be surprised if I disappear for a while again. We actually had a pretty short week, with a number of classes cancelled and not having Monday classes this week for alumni day, but I have been taking care of a lot of things that needed to be done... shopping for the Donnelly Halloween party, getting a haircut, and eventually cleaning my room ;) I will post pictures of the Donnelly Party, cause I think it is going to be awesome, I had lots of fun getting stuff for it, so we will see how everything works. I am just happy that I have finally found a barber here in Baltimore that doesn't mess up my hair (not like my haircut is that difficult, but three different barbers I visited two years ago didn't do a very good job)... I was content though going back to Jersey all the time, until this year since I haven't been there since the middle of August and won't be back until Turkey Day, I just couldn't deal with my hair being that long for another month... I needed to give in. Thanks to Dan for pointing out a good place for me, Gennuso's Barber Shop.

Well, it is getting kind of late, so I better hit the shower and then off to class, hope all is going well wherever you are, and will be talking to you soon. Until then, here is your Site of the Day Hope you like a little Jazz... for some reason I find this peaceful. Enjoy!

Be a blinking light!

2006-10-11T09:09:00.000-04:00

I got a wonderful compliment the other day... when we get voicemail on our phones in the seminary there is a light that blinks to indicate that we have a message. Well, I was told, that when people see the blinking light and here that it is a message from me they smile since that usually means there are free drinks in the Donnelly for a special event. As I have said before, it's the little things that matter, so I encourage others to be that blinking light for someone else today. On a funny note, my light is burnt out, so I need to pick up my phone to know if there is a message or not.

Boy am I tired today, I have an exam to study for on Friday and another paper due on Monday so I don't think things will be getting any easier, but all is well. A couple of the Syracuse guys are running in the Baltimore Marathon this weekend, and I really have respect for them. I ran this morning on the treadmill for almost an hour and totalled 5 miles and can only imagine what it would be like to run five times that much, especially since I didn't use the hill function today so it was all at 0% incline. I would like to do what some of the guys are doing, splitting up the marathon into four parts and running one of those parts - I think that would be cool and it wouldn't take too much more work to get my stamina up that far to complete it. Of course that is just completing, not competing... I am sure the others are much faster, but it would be more of a thing for me to do.

I got to visit another primary care facility yesterday and run a Eucharistic prayer service and visit the rooms of some of the patients who could not come to the room where we had the service. There really are some beautiful people in this world who do not get enough time to share part of their story with all of us. I met a number of people who were over 100 years old, some very sick who could not have a coherent conversation but still prayed the Our Father with us, others who started to talk about their experiences in life and concerns for their family members who they don't get to see all that often. I am so happy that I get to spend a few hours a week with these people, since they are always so pleasent to you just for being there.

On Tuesday, we had our annual Dunning Lecture in which Dr. Craig Evans spoke about the Gospel of Judas, which has been in the papers very recently and the talk was interesting, although a lot is still left to be discovered. Probably the most amazing part of the story was the amount of damage that the original document went through from the time of discovery... it was sold once and that person tried to resell it, but when he did not get the amount of money he desired he put it in a safety deposit box in New York where it got moldy and then he decided to deep freeze it in order to preserve it, which failed miserably. So, if you are ever in Egypt and find some old manuscript don't do what this guy did! (Actually there are rules now in place to prevent this from happening again). If you have any questions feel free to ask, although there is no guarentee that I will be able to answer it.

Before I forget, which I did on Monday, happy belated Thanksgiving to all my Canadian friends, hope you guys had a great one!!!

The site of the day comes from my friend Chris, who sent this link. Which is kind of funny, since whenever I go home I usually call Bill on the phone and wish that we would just figure out teleportation so I wouldn't have to drive three hours back to Jersey. Anyway it is a pretty cool site in general if you just want to learn a little bit more on how stuff works...

Speaking of work, off to study and do my Latin homework... until next time, as Sylvester Stallone (and everyone else just about) in Demolition Man would say "Be Well!"

Weekend Update

2006-10-08T08:03:00.000-04:00

The Mets win!!! Glad to see the Amazin's back in the NLCS and awaiting the winner of the San Diego - St. Louis series. I guess I am pulling for San Diego, in any case I would like to see the series go 5, as it can only help the Mets. Sad to see that the Yanks didn't pull it off, they looked horrible (no offense), and I wonder what will happen during the offseason. Rumblings are already that Joe Torre is getting fired which would be a real shame in my opinion. I also think this means the Yanks and Mets might be getting into a bidding war for Barry Zito this offseason... but let's worry about that after the playoffs.

I did get to watch some college football yesterday, and I have to say for the most part I was not impressed all that much with some of the top teams. Ohio State and Florida were quite impressive and they are my #1 and #2 teams if I were smart enough to do a top 25. With the weakness of USC, the tough games pitting unbeatens Ohio State vs. Michigan and Louisville vs. West Virignia in November, and not some other difficult games for Michigan, Auburn and Florida, there is a possibility (even though I tried to convince on of my friends otherwise yesterday) that Notre Dame could still play for the National Championship. Other than USC, ND should win the remaining games... I have not been overly impressed by the Irish, but the Catholic in me needs to root for them :). By the way... GO RU!!! Sink Navy this week!

I am so glad that autumn has finally arrived, it is still not perfect, as the leaves haven't really begun to change colors, and the temperature is just starting to drop. But a couple of days ago I did wake up to a nice chill and the smell of burning leaves off in the distance. Here is one of my favorite pictures of a nice hike in fall.
The picture was taken at Garrett Mountain (Rifle Camp Park) also known as "the Cliff of Clifton", well that is what I call it at least, so let's see if it takes off. I hope to get some time after an exam this week to go out and hike a bit, we apparently have some beautiful trails around here that I have yet to visit.

We had a good Oktoberfest on Friday - lots of brats and sauerkraut and some really decent German beer, I am a big fan of Einbecker, Mai-Ur-Bock if you get the chance and like darker beer, try it. I was really happy with the turnout and it seemed like everyone had a pretty good time. Golf tournament is coming up next, geez my job is tough, isn't it? ;) Well, speaking of my job I better get going, off to the parish this morning and visiting some homebound. Hope to hear from you all soon!

Almost forgot... the site of the day... This is pretty addicting! I have only gotten about half way through!

Rutgers Bye Week

2006-10-05T06:16:00.000-04:00

Wow, it is going to be tough not to have Rutgers football on this weekend, oh well at least there is plenty of articles to read on the team! I especially liked this one ... for a long time Rutgers fans have been waiting to "Awake the sleeping Giant" that is RU Football and I hope that this just continues... In any case RU fans will still have that Jersey sense of humor to look back on as attested to in the article about the new state motto. For the record I voted for "Jersey: hey at least were not Delaware" (I apologize to any Delaware readers out there).

Good news, my poison ivy is just about gone and I finally got back into the gym which is great cause I was really off in scheduling, studying everything, I am hoping that this will bring a good balance back. It seems weird that after a week and a half I would be so sluggish, but at least I am back on the horse. Actually I feel pretty great considering it is six in the morning and I just finished running three miles.

I also got a chance to go to a primary care facility on Tuesday with Fr. Bert, which is part of my pastoral assignment. It went pretty well and the people there were so happy to see us, it is really a blessing to realize how much just a little bit of time can mean to someone. I am really looking forward to getting involved in the prison ministry as well, but it will take some time for me to get through the proper paper work. With the amount of times that my background has been checked and finger printed along with the line of work that some of the companies I used to work for, I must be on some government watch list somewhere... guess I shouldn't take a class on fundamentalist religion quite yet or I might have some one come to my door!

I had a latin class last night so I did not get to watch the entire Mets game, but I did get to see THIS (sorry, best I could do was a link to ESPN's Motion video, just click on the Mets-Dodgers highlights). I couldn't believe that they got two guys out at the plate... amazing. Looking forward to game 2 tonight. I can't imagine what traffic must be like today in NY with both teams playing and being home. Hope there is another Subway Series though!

My friend Jitesh sent me this email which was just too funny to not share with other people. Now don't forget I was an engineer at one time, so I have a soft spot for Math humor and as you know I also have one for stupidity. So, here goes:

OK, now for the site of the day... nothing extremely funny this time, but a great diversion during the day if you want a small challenge... Daily Puzzles and Brain Teasers

Happy Founders Day!

2006-10-03T06:19:00.000-04:00

OK, so I finally got the opportunity to write again, what can I say I have been a bit busy... life is good though... classes are going well as is my placement at Immacualte Conception up in Towson. Today is Founder's Day here at St. Mary's and in the spirit of the brave men who came here to start the first seminary in America, I am attempting to overcome my difficulties and post once again. I have found it very difficult to keep in touch with so many people at the same time and I was hoping to avoid making ANOTHER Blog site here, but it seems like this one is going to be pretty permanent so hopefully I will be only using this in the future. I still need to go onto Bebo (for those of you interested to read my old blogs, they are still at my bebo site ) and tell people that this is going to be my new site but it is blocked from here... I am actually going to try to make this also more like a traditional blog, not only telling you all about what is happening in my life, but also linking to some sites that I have come across in my recent times... amazingly there are people out there with way too much free time, case in point - I left my Jello in (the shape) of San Francisco . I bet your asking: Keith, where do you get such strange places on the internet? A variety of ways, but most of them are just links from friends who think I will enjoy them. Send me whatever you think is cool (and hopefully it will not get blocked from the firewall here) and I will be more than happy to post it if it is worthy of the randomness that I do call my life.

HOW ABOUT THEM RUTGERS SCARLET KNIGHTS!!!! Ranked #23 (and 24) in the country and 5-0! OK, talk all you want on how they haven't played a tough schedule and such, but hey I have been through a number of years that they couldn't beat those teams, so I will definitely take it. The team was really excited too! Maybe it is there year, but right now I am just really looking forward to going to the RU-Navy game in two weeks down in Annapolis. The game is Navy's homecoming so there are only seats left for the grassy knoll, so pray for good weather. It'd be awesome to win another road game and become bowl eligible the second week of October! While I don't believe RU is ready to challenge West Virginia and Louisville for the Big East crown I do think that they are a legitimate top 25 team, since everyone after the top 10 have some kind of serious flaw, so RU's glaring weakness of a passing game (or lack there of) is no worse than anyone else's weakness, in my humble opinion. One more thing from sports - LET'S GO METS!!! Baseball playoffs start tonight and while the Mets don't play until tomorrow, I am hoping for another subway series this year - of course preferably with different results this time around.

Not sure what else people would like to know, since I haven't talked to you all in a while. Classes haven't really started to get papers due quite yet (even though my first one is due today - don't worry it's done :) ) and I am a little concerned since I have quite a bit of reading to do in the classes now and wonder if I will be able to keep up when exams and papers are due... but hey, I will manage. I am taking Pastoral Catechetics, Intro to Pastoral Theology, Sexuality Celibacy and Marriage, Johannine Literature, Christology and Latin II, for a description of the classes please go here (there will be a little surfing on your part, sorry, but that is the best I can do). All of my classes are pretty interesting thus far and I feel like I am being well prepared for the future. But, as most of you know there is also a nice social aspect to Seminary life as well and we just had an awesome Bocce Ball tournament! I didn't win :(, actually Edmund and I lost in the first round, so much for Team Metuchen.

Lots of stuff happened to friends recently and I want to congratulate Mike and Mel on their first child, John's wedding, John and Dave (not to each other) on their engagements, and Kim on her first pregnancy! I do feel like I am forgetting something, so my apologies if I am... Wow, guess I am getting older, huh!

I am just getting over a small battle with Poison Ivy, so I am glad to finally be over (for the most part) the annoying itchy sensation - it is actually kind of funny that after all the years I spent with the Boy Scouts camping and hiking, the two places I get poison ivy (or sumac or oak, don't know which) was here at St. Mary's at the Grotto and pulling weeds at McDonald's in Little Falls, NJ. Usually when people find out you have poison ivy they ask what the best remedy is to cure it... well let me answer that - DON'T GET IT IN THE FIRST PLACE! I am always such a help aren't I?

Well, I guess that is all for now, please feel free to send those links to me, entertain the world without forwarding! And now for your moment of zen.

new page!!

2006-09-11T06:30:00.000-04:00

So why "Just a guy from Jersey?"
A seminarian blog with no religious title… isn’t there something wrong with that? Perhaps, but I thought long and hard about the title of my blog… which is more than I can say about a lot of things in my life. Everything in life has a purpose, even this blog, and I guess that my purpose is to show people the one thing that I had a difficult time getting over when discerning whether I should join the seminary… the fact that priests, seminarians and religious are just normal people that God has called to serve Him. So the point of this blog is to share different things of my life, what is happening in it, things that I find interesting and random acts of just about anything. This keeps friends and family members up to date on different things that are going on, but also hopefully serves a deeper purpose for other men and women who are discerning the call to religious life. After all, I am just a guy from jersey, I love camping, watching sports on TV, hanging out with my friends and stupid movies and tv shows and God-willing after I am ordained, I will still be just a guy from Jersey. So, you will get your share of interesting religious articles, but you will also get just everyday stuff, that’s why I chose the name. Thanks for stopping by… Pax et bonum.