Such A Long Time! Dear and Gentle Reader, you might have been wondering what was going on with me, in such a long absence here.  Well, I assure you, I'm alive, well - reasonably so - and still kicking - when my arthritic knees allow. So, let me catch up as best I can.   Farewell! Since my absence we have bid farewell to both Pope Benedict XVI and Cardinal Pell.  I'm sure our prayers for their eternal repose have helped them on their journey home.  Benedict's scholarly work will continue to enrich the Church for centuries to come.  Unlike some of his Germanic counterparts, his theological writings were rather easily read and digested.  As for Cardinal Pell, whilst he had his detractors, I was so glad that he was legally vindicated against the unjust charges of abuse.  I do not think I would have had the patience and grace to endure the unjust solitary confinement he was subject to for fourteen months!  May God rest both of these shepherds and...