Live the best Single Mingle Christian Sharing Lifestyle [even if you are married ;) ]

Saturday, May 3, 2025

THE JOY OF PERSECUTION - One Bread, One Body, 05/04/2025

Sunday, May 4, 2025, Third Sunday of Easter

Acts 5:27-32, 40-41
Revelation 5:11-14
Psalm 30:2, 4-6, 11-13
John 21:1-19
View Readings

Listen to Fr. Al Daily Bread Radio Program

THE JOY OF PERSECUTION
"The apostles for their part left the Sanhedrin full of joy that they had been judged worthy of ill-treatment for the sake of the Name." —Acts 5:41

How do you know whether you’re really getting into the Easter Spirit? Are you being persecuted because of your witness for the risen Christ? Are you joyful that you have been judged worthy of this persecution? Persecution and joy are the tell-tale signs of a real Easter — not either persecution or joy, but both persecution and joy.

This doesn’t mean that we have to feel good about persecution, rather that we rejoice in the Lord always no matter what (Phil 4:4). Some Christians might maintain they are witnessing for Jesus but not being persecuted, because those around them are too nice to do such a thing. Possibly the Lord has spared them persecution for a time, but more likely they’re not fully proclaiming the radical Gospel of the risen Christ.

When people don’t believe in the risen Christ, persecution is a normal response to the earth-shaking, mind-boggling, life-transforming message of the Resurrection. There’s nothing that can shake people up more than the Resurrection (see e.g. Mt 28:11-15). Since Jesus is risen and death is defeated, people must change their lives dramatically and radically. This challenge will result in repentance or persecution or possibly both. Both of these reactions result in joy for Christians (see Lk 15:7; Acts 5:41).

Prayer: Father, may I rejoice in persecution more than in pleasure.

Promise: "To the One seated on the throne, and to the Lamb, be praise and honor, glory and might, forever and ever!" —Rv 5:13

Praise: Praise the risen Jesus, true God and true Man, only Hope of the world!

(For a related teaching on Spiritual Warfare view, download or order our leaflet or listen to, download or order AV 6C-1 or V 6C on our website.)

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from April 1, 2025, through May 31, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio September 4, 2024"

The Nihil Obstat ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the Nihil Obstat agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

-----------------------------------------------------------------

You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at http://www.presentationministries.com/series/obob

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Copyright © Presentation Ministries

To add your e-mail address to this list go to https://www.presentationministries.com/subscribe/email

To remove your e-mail address from this list, click here..

Ruth Buzzi, Beloved Comedian and Iconic Gladys Ormphby of 'Laugh-In', Dies at 88

DALLAS, TX – May 2, 2025 – Ruth Buzzi, the Emmy Award-winning comedian and actress cherished by millions for her portrayal of the purse-wielding Gladys Ormphby on the groundbreaking television show "Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In", died peacefully in her sleep on May 1, 2025. She was 88 years old.

Her husband, Kent Perkins, confirmed her passing at their home in North Texas. Buzzi had been receiving hospice care for several years following challenges with Alzheimer's disease. Her death marks the end of a remarkable career that brought laughter to generations and solidified her place as a unique talent in American comedy.

Ruth Buzzi shot to stardom as one of the original cast members of "Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In," which premiered in 1968 and quickly became a cultural phenomenon. Her most famous creation on the show was Gladys Ormphby, a spinster character easily recognized by her frumpy hairnet, drab brown dress, and formidable handbag. Gladys was perpetually fending off the advances of the park bench character Tyrone F. Horneigh, played memorably by Arte Johnson. The recurring sketch, culminating in Gladys swatting Tyrone repeatedly with her lethal purse, became one of the show's most popular and enduring bits. Buzzi's impeccable comic timing and physical comedy in the role earned her widespread acclaim, including a Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actress in 1973 and multiple Emmy Award nominations, winning one for her work on the show (though sources sometimes differ on the specific Emmy win related to Laugh-In vs. other work). People.com highlighted her indelible contribution to the show in their coverage. [Link: https://people.com/ruth-buzzi-laugh-in-comedian-dead-at-88-9045927]

While Gladys Ormphby remains her most identifiable role, Buzzi's talent extended far beyond the fast-paced world of "Laugh-In." For over two decades, she was a beloved fixture on the children's educational program "Sesame Street", where she played Ruthie, the cheerful owner of Finders Keepers, a shop known for its eclectic collection of items. She brought warmth and humor to the role, participating in sketches and songs that entertained and educated young viewers. Her work on "Sesame Street" demonstrated her versatility and gentle comedic style, contrasting with the broader character work seen on "Laugh-In." AP News noted her significant contributions to both iconic series in their report on her passing. [Link: https://apnews.com/article/ruth-buzzi-laugh-in-obituary-9b2de3d0042f44db82ae7ab3e4a7a3f5]

Born Ruth Ann Buzzi on July 24, 1936, in Westerly, Rhode Island, she was drawn to performing early on. Her father was a nationally recognized stone sculptor. Following her passion, she studied at the Pasadena Playhouse in California, a renowned training ground for actors. Her early career included stage work, notably appearing in the original Off-Broadway production of "Sweet Charity" and various revues alongside other talented young performers like Dom DeLuise and Carol Burnett. This foundation in live performance honed the skills that would later make her a television standout. Playbill recognized her stage roots in their remembrance. [Link: https://playbill.com/article/original-sweet-charity-performer-ruth-buzzi-has-died-at-88]

Throughout her career, Buzzi was a frequent guest star on numerous television shows, variety specials, and game shows. She lent her distinctive voice to many animated series and films, including work for Disney and Hanna-Barbera productions. Her film credits include roles in movies like "Freaky Friday" (1976) and Mel Brooks' "The Nutt House" (1992). Her adaptability allowed her to navigate different genres and formats, maintaining a consistent presence in American entertainment for decades. NBC Washington's report touched upon the breadth of her career following her "Laugh-In" fame. [Link: https://www.nbcwashington.com/entertainment/entertainment-news/comedian-and-laugh-in-star-ruth-buzzi-dies-at-88/3829881/]

Buzzi's passing was confirmed by her husband of over four decades, Kent Perkins, whom she married in 1978. He shared that she faced Alzheimer's with courage and that her final moments were peaceful at their Texas ranch, a place she loved. The couple shared a life away from the Hollywood spotlight in recent years, focusing on their shared interests and charitable work. FOX 13 Seattle mentioned her passing at home in Texas. [Link: https://www.fox13seattle.com/news/ruth-buzzi-laugh-in-comedian-dies-at-88]

Ruth Buzzi's legacy is one of laughter and memorable character creation. Gladys Ormphby, with her formidable purse and unwavering defense against unwanted attention, became more than just a sketch character; she was a comedic archetype recognized instantly by millions. Buzzi's skill was in making Gladys both hilarious and strangely endearing. Her contributions to "Laugh-In" helped define the show's anarchic spirit and pushed boundaries in television comedy. Beyond that iconic role, her consistent work on "Sesame Street" and her numerous other appearances made her a familiar and welcome presence on screen for viewers of all ages. Extra TV acknowledged her status as a celebrated comic figure. [Link: https://extratv.com/2025/05/02/ruth-buzzi-laugh-in-comic-dies-at-88/]

She leaves behind her husband, Kent Perkins, and a legacy of comedic performances that continue to entertain through reruns and online clips. Ruth Buzzi's unique ability to blend broad physical comedy with genuine character work secured her position as a distinguished figure in American entertainment history. Her contributions to television comedy and children's programming will be long remembered.

--
You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Broadcaster" group.
To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to broadcaster-news+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com.
To view this discussion visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/broadcaster-news/11c942d9-a6ad-4499-9118-e52d2e2f74b0n%40googlegroups.com.

Jill Sobule, Groundbreaking 'I Kissed a Girl' Singer-Songwriter, Dies in Minnesota House Fire at 66

WOODBURY, Minn. – May 2, 2025 – Jill Sobule, the influential and witty singer-songwriter who achieved international recognition with her 1995 hit "I Kissed a Girl" and the song "Supermodel" from the Clueless soundtrack, has died. Sobule perished in a house fire in Woodbury, Minnesota, early Thursday morning, May 1, 2025. She was 66 years old.

Her death was confirmed by her longtime manager, John Porter, and publicist David Elkin. Porter stated Sobule was "a force of nature and human rights advocate whose music is woven into our culture."

The Woodbury Public Safety Department reported that police and fire units responded to a call about a house fire on Pinehurst Road around 5:30 a.m. on Thursday. Upon arrival, first responders found the home heavily engulfed in flames. During firefighting and search operations, they discovered an adult female inside the residence, later identified as Sobule. She was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The specific cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Woodbury Public Safety Department and the Minnesota State Fire Marshal Division. The Ramsey County Medical Examiner's office will determine the official cause of death. Reports indicate Sobule was staying with friends in Woodbury, a suburb of the Twin Cities, while working on several projects.

Jill Sobule emerged as a unique voice in the 1990s alternative music scene, blending folk-pop sensibilities with sharp, observational lyrics often tackling social issues with humor and honesty. Born in Denver, Colorado, Sobule picked up the guitar at a young age and began performing in local clubs before eventually signing with major labels.

Her breakthrough came with her self-titled second album, Jill Sobule, released in 1995 on Atlantic Records. The album featured the single "I Kissed a Girl)", a narrative song telling the story of a woman exploring feelings for another woman. The track became a significant hit, reaching the Billboard Top 20 and receiving substantial radio and MTV airplay. Critically, it is noted as the first openly LGBTQ+-themed song by an openly affiliated artist to achieve such mainstream chart success in the United States, paving the way for subsequent artists. Its frankness and catchy melody made it a cultural touchstone of the era.

That same year, Sobule's career received another boost when her song "Supermodel)" was prominently featured in the hit teen comedy film Clueless). The song, a satirical take on the fashion world, further cemented her reputation for clever lyricism and became closely associated with the film's iconic status.

Throughout a career spanning nearly four decades, Sobule released numerous albums, including Happy Town (1997), Pink Pearl (2000), Underdog Victorious (2004), California Years (2009), and Nostalgia Kills (2018). She remained a prolific songwriter and performer, known for her engaging live shows and consistent advocacy on social and political issues. Her work often defied easy categorization, incorporating elements of folk, rock, pop, and country, always anchored by her distinctive narrative voice. She was also an early adopter of crowdfunding, using platforms like Kickstarter to connect directly with her fanbase and finance later projects, demonstrating an independent spirit that characterized her career.

Beyond her solo work, Sobule collaborated with various artists and contributed songs to television shows and films. She was actively involved in theater, co-writing the musical F** 7th Grade*. She was reportedly in Minnesota preparing for upcoming work, including recording a podcast series and preparing for a performance of the musical scheduled for June 11 at the Open Eye Figure Theatre in Minneapolis.

A performance scheduled for Friday, May 2, 2025, in her hometown of Denver is expected to be transformed into a tribute event celebrating her life and music.

News of Sobule's sudden passing prompted an outpouring of grief and remembrance from fellow musicians, industry figures, and fans, many highlighting her unique talent, kindness, and pioneering spirit. Her ability to combine catchy melodies with insightful, often challenging, lyrical themes left an indelible mark on the music landscape.

Jill Sobule is survived by her brother, Steve Sobule, and sister-in-law, Cookie Sobule. Details regarding memorial services have not yet been announced.

The investigation into the house fire is ongoing. Woodbury Public Safety continues to work with state officials to determine the origin and cause.

As reported by various news outlets:

FOX 9 Minneapolis-St. Paul detailed the initial response and confirmation: https://www.fox9.com/news/jill-sobule-i-kissed-a-girl-singer-dies-minnesota-house-fire
Minnesota Public Radio (MPR News) provided local context and background on her career: https://www.mprnews.org/story/2025/05/01/jill-sobule-i-kissed-a-girl-singersongwriter-dies-in-minnesota-house-fire
The Los Angeles Times covered the story, emphasizing her impact on music: https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/music/story/2025-05-01/jill-sobule-i-kissed-a-girl-singer-dead
Sky News also reported on her death, noting her international recognition: https://news.sky.com/story/jill-sobule-i-kissed-a-girl-singer-dies-aged-66-in-house-fire-13127486

Jill Sobule's contributions as a singer-songwriter, her groundbreaking honesty in addressing complex themes, and her enduring hits ensure her legacy will continue to resonate.

--
You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Broadcaster" group.
To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to broadcaster-news+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com.
To view this discussion visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/broadcaster-news/6c1e8cd2-22d3-4041-b2b7-28941d6da5ecn%40googlegroups.com.

Grand Theft Auto VI Release Date Adjusted to May 2026

UNITED STATES – May 2, 2025 – Following immense anticipation worldwide, Rockstar Games, the acclaimed developer behind the Grand Theft Auto series, today provided an important update regarding the launch timeframe for its next landmark title, Grand Theft Auto VI. The release window for the game has been adjusted from the previously announced Fall 2025 period. Grand Theft Auto VI is now scheduled to arrive in May 2026.

This information was confirmed by Rockstar Games and its parent company, Take-Two Interactive, marking a significant schedule shift for one of the most eagerly awaited video game releases in history. The development team requires additional time to complete work on the title to meet the high standards of quality and polish that players associate with the franchise.

The initial release target of Fall 2025 was first unveiled alongside the game's debut trailer in December 2023. That trailer quickly became a cultural phenomenon, breaking viewership records and giving players their first official glimpse into the world and atmosphere of Grand Theft Auto VI, including its return to the vibrant, neon-soaked setting inspired by Vice City and introducing protagonists Lucia and Jason. The confirmation of the Fall 2025 window at that time set expectations for the game's arrival within that period.

Today's announcement repositions the launch firmly into the Spring 2026 calendar. Rockstar Games communicated the need for extended development time to deliver the experience they envision. While delays can alter expectations, the studio's reputation for creating deeply immersive and high-caliber open-world games suggests this decision is rooted in achieving a particular level of refinement and scope for Grand Theft Auto VI. The statement from Rockstar emphasized their commitment to quality above all else.

Take-Two Interactive echoed this sentiment, supporting the revised timeline. Company representatives have often spoken about the commercial and cultural importance of the Grand Theft Auto series, and positioning the launch in May 2026 aligns with ensuring the title's readiness for a global audience on its initially confirmed platforms. This specific timing adjustment was highlighted in recent communications, underscoring the definitive nature of the new target. CBS News reported on this development, noting the shift to the later date CBS News: Grand Theft Auto 6 release date punted to May 2026. Other major news outlets are expected to cover this update extensively as the information disseminates. (Note: As news breaks, specific article links from outlets like AP News, Reuters, NY Times, etc., covering the May 2nd delay would typically be inserted here once available and found.)

Grand Theft Auto VI is confirmed to launch initially on the latest generation of consoles: Sony's PlayStation 5 and Microsoft's Xbox Series X and Series S. These platforms provide the technological foundation necessary for the scale and detail Rockstar Games aims to achieve with the next installment. The power of these consoles allows for significant advancements in graphics, processing power, and loading speeds, all contributing to a more dynamic and responsive game world.

The status of a PC (Personal Computer) version remains consistent with Rockstar Games' typical launch strategy. While a PC release is widely expected by the gaming community, it has not been confirmed for the initial May 2026 launch window alongside the console versions. Historically, Rockstar Games has released PC ports of its major titles some time after their console debuts, allowing for dedicated development and optimization for the platform. No official timeframe for a potential Grand Theft Auto VI PC version has been announced at this time. This remains a point of discussion among players looking forward to experiencing the game on PC hardware.

The Grand Theft Auto franchise stands as a titan in the entertainment industry, known for its satirical take on contemporary culture, freedom of exploration, and emergent gameplay. Each new entry raises the bar for open-world design and storytelling. Grand Theft Auto V, the predecessor, continues to be immensely popular years after its initial release, highlighting the series' longevity and impact.

The adjustment of the Grand Theft Auto VI release date to May 2026, while a delay from the prior target, provides a clear, updated timeframe for fans and industry observers. The focus now rests on Rockstar Games utilizing this period to finalize development and prepare for what is expected to be one of the largest entertainment launches ever. The commitment to quality remains the stated priority, setting the stage for the game's eventual arrival on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S in Spring 2026. Further updates regarding the title will likely come directly from Rockstar Games as development progresses towards the new launch window.

About Rockstar Games Rockstar Games cemented their reputation as creators of complex living worlds with the Grand Theft Auto series. Their portfolio includes other acclaimed series such as Red Dead Redemption. They are known for their commitment to progressive gameplay and detailed, narrative-driven open-world experiences.

About Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. Headquartered in New York City, Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. is a leading developer, publisher, and marketer of interactive entertainment for consumers around the globe. The Company develops and publishes products principally through Rockstar Games, 2K, Private Division, and Zynga. Their products are designed for console systems, personal computers, and mobile platforms.

--
You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Broadcaster" group.
To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to broadcaster-news+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com.
To view this discussion visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/broadcaster-news/2fb66807-6d9f-41b9-996f-9d122da4218an%40googlegroups.com.

Friday, May 2, 2025

HOPE FOR THE WEAK - One Bread, One Body, 05/03/2025

Saturday, May 3, 2025, Sts. Philip & James

1 Corinthians 15:1-8
Psalm 19:2-5
John 14:6-14

View Readings

Listen to Fr. Al Daily Bread Radio Program

HOPE FOR THE WEAK
" 'Philip,' Jesus replied, 'after I have been with you all this time, you still do not know Me?' " —John 14:9

St. Philip followed Jesus for years without getting to fully know Him. When Jesus tested Philip’s faith before He multiplied the loaves and fish, Philip did not pass the test (Jn 6:6ff). When some Greeks wanted to see Jesus (Jn 12:21), Philip didn’t tell them to come and see Jesus, as he had earlier said to St. Nathanael (Jn 1:45-46). Instead, Philip went to tell St. Andrew, as if Philip had lost confidence in how to take someone to Jesus (Jn 12:22).

Philip needed to grow in faith. Yet in his weakness, God’s power reached perfection (2 Cor 12:9). God gave His power to Philip at the first Christian Pentecost. After Pentecost, Philip was a new person. He became a great leader in the early Church, one of the first missionaries, and a martyr for love of Jesus.

We all are like Philip. We are “weak flesh sold into the slavery of sin” (Rm 7:14). However, we are also like Philip in that we are called to live as new creations through a new Pentecost. The Holy Spirit confirms us, that is, strengthens us. In that way, God’s power reaches perfection in our weakness. Jesus promised that we, the weak, will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes down on us (Acts 1:8). Holy Spirit of power, come to the weak!

Prayer: Father, give me the Pentecost of a lifetime.

Promise: "Next He was seen by James; then by all the apostles. Last of all He was seen by me." —1 Cor 15:7-8

Praise: St. Philip led a future apostle, St. Nathanael, to Jesus (Jn 1:45-46).

(Our 40-Hours Devotion and Family Campout on June 6-8 is a great way to start your summer off with blessings from the Lord. Call 513-373-2397 or see www.presentationministries.com for details and to register.)

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from April 1, 2025, through May 31, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio September 4, 2024"

The Nihil Obstat ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the Nihil Obstat agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

-----------------------------------------------------------------

You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at http://www.presentationministries.com/series/obob

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Copyright © Presentation Ministries

To add your e-mail address to this list go to https://www.presentationministries.com/subscribe/email

To remove your e-mail address from this list, click here..

Thursday, May 1, 2025

GOD’S GOOD TESTING - One Bread, One Body, 05/02/2025

Friday, May 2, 2025, St. Athanasius

Acts 5:34-42
Psalm 27:1, 4, 13-14
John 6:1-15

View Readings

Listen to Fr. Al Daily Bread Radio Program

GOD'S GOOD TESTING
"He asked this to test Philip's response." —John 6:6

A teacher’s test is not a punishment. It is designed to make the students grow. For example, we have to pass a test to earn a driver’s license. Failing the test is not a punishment. It is rather a learning experience meant to help us pass the next test.

God’s tests are intended to stretch us, to make us holier and more reliant on His grace, without which we can do nothing (Jn 15:5). When God gives us a test, we not only come to know ourselves better, but we come to know Him more deeply as well.

On this earth, we have tests from the Lord (see Dt 4:34; 8:2), trials from life, temptations and trials from the kingdom of darkness, and purifications. “When you come to serve the Lord, prepare yourself for trials” (Sir 2:1). God is “the Tester of our hearts” (1 Thes 2:4). The trials we bear are as nothing compared to the glory to be revealed in us (Rm 8:18). God plans “to test you by affliction” (Dt 8:2). “The Lord, your God, is testing you to learn whether you really love Him” (Dt 13:4). “We should be grateful to the Lord our God, for putting us to the test” (Jdt 8:25). However, we are not to test God (Dt 6:16; Jdt 8:12). Jesus specifically rebuked Satan for trying to test God (Mt 4:7).

Scripture talks of gold tested in fire (1 Pt 1:6-7). Therefore, consider your testings and trials as God’s purification to make you shine more brightly. Prepare for your tests by studying the answers contained in the Holy Bible and the teachings of the Church, particularly in the Catechism of the Catholic Church. Make solid preparations to pass His tests. Then rejoice in all trials (Jas 1:2).

Prayer: Father, help me prepare for Your tests more seriously than I have ever prepared for school exams.

Promise: "The Lord is my Light and my Salvation; whom should I fear?" —Ps 27:1

Praise: St. Athanasius fought against the denial of Jesus' divinity for much of his seventy-seven years.

(This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from April 1, 2025, through May 31, 2025. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio September 4, 2024"

The Nihil Obstat ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the Nihil Obstat agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

-----------------------------------------------------------------

You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at http://www.presentationministries.com/series/obob

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Copyright © Presentation Ministries

To add your e-mail address to this list go to https://www.presentationministries.com/subscribe/email

To remove your e-mail address from this list, click here..

Our Main Sponsor

Saturday, May 3, 2025

Friday, May 2, 2025

Thursday, May 1, 2025