Sermons of Holy Week

Heard a two-finally sermon on Easter Sunday. That’s one where the preacher says “finally” twice, a number of paragraphs apart, raising hopes with the first one, dashing them with the second. Here’s a rule: Never say “finally” twice in the same sermon.

I did not time this sermon, so have nothing to report in that respect, though I am sure it broke another rule: Keep It Short, Father. I did not time it because of my Lenten resolution not to time sermons any more.

I broke it, however, on Holy Thursday out of terrible habit, in the case of a visiting Jesuit — with bracing results. He went a mere 11, at the most 12 minutes. I might have sung Alleluia two days early if I did that sort of thing.

Good man this Thursday preacher! Not only for his brevity but also for his single, clear message: pay attention more to…