Pursuing truth together

To steal a chorus from b ob h urd, “ubi caritas est vera, d eus ibi est” — where charity is true, God is there. m ore succinctly from the late Pope b enedict X v I, “ d eus caritas est” — God is charity. b ut those twin aims of action, truth and charity, at times can seem at odds with each other. Indeed, much of my time at n otre d ame Law, and really in the n otre d ame community more broadly, has been defined by the relentless pursuit of just the right balance between truth and charity. After all, anyone can see the hurt feelings caused by candor that is too blunt. Likewise, if that sort of bluntness is exactly what we unhealthily fear, then our charity could end up suppressing truth. This dialectic even infects our politics. h ow many times have we seen those on the right making points along the lines of “facts don’t care about your feelings”? The point is true enough: if one has authentically arrived at the truth, no contrary notion, regardless of how grounded in one’s own personal experience, can substitute for it. b ut such a relentless pursuit of truth without charity ends up leading people away from both. And then there’s the practically instinctive tendency of those on the left to align themselves with the marginalized, whether actual or perceived. s olidarity is a principle of c atholic social teaching and a noble pursuit, and those on the right side of the aisle admittedly tend not to abide by it anywhere close to sufficiently, but the readiness of those on the left to stand with the marginalized often seems to be grounded in things other than a pursuit of truth as to the nature and scope of alleged ongoing oppression. In exercising the principle of solidarity, many a left-leaning thinker thereby invest their time and effort in the pursuit of virtue signaling rather than actual virtue. The result is similar: charity without truth ends up leading people away from both.

The tribalism of modern politics creates another problem which intensifies both of these infections.

In 2008, b ill b ishop wrote a book titled The b ig s ort that describes a sociological phenomenon over the past 40 years in which there has been a tendency for individuals to geographically conglomerate based on political preference. This sort of retreat into what Alexis de Tocqueville would call a “little society” consisting of only those who think and act most like ourselves is exceptionally problematic.

c ountless curricular materials on an “author’s purpose” in writing state the proposition that those purposes number three: to inform, persuade, or entertain. The more society “sorts” itself by political affiliation, the less that people engage in discourse to persuade others and the more they engage in discourse instead to inform their own as to where they stand. The temptation to prove one’s bona fides to one’s preferred political tribe is particularly difficult to resist. m ight some of the lack of empathy amongst those on the right be attributable to a desire not to get labeled a snowflake? Likewise, might some of the virtue signaling amongst those on the left similarly amount to a desire not to get canceled? A plague o’ both these houses. There must be another way.

In middle and high school, I had a theology teacher who made a point of etymologizing key Greek words of the n ew Testament. o ne of the first words to which he gave this treatment was “metanoia”. Whenever Jesus says “repent, for the Kingdom of God is at hand” in s cripture, the word “repent” is a loose e nglish translation of the Greek “metanoia,” which comes from two roots: “meta,” which refers to change, and “-noia,” referring concurrently to the heart and to the mind. r ather than simply turning away from wrong things, c hrist thus calls us through a multitude of parables to open our hearts and minds to deeply rooted change.

And so it is here, dear and faithful reader, that this column concludes with an exhortation: whenever we find ourselves engaging in discourse, we should ask ourselves two simple questions: first, what am I trying to show here, and second, to whom?

The answer to that first question should be “truth with charity”, while the answer to the second should be “everybody.” If instead we find ourselves proclaiming untruths with an uncharitable disposition and tribalism in our hearts, the very metanoias that enable the Kingdom of God to flourish will take root neither in our hearts and minds nor anyone else’s.

As I have previously noted in this space, s t. m aximillian Kolbe’s formula for holiness notes that God’s will, united with ours, is the very definition of sanctity — “W + w = s ” for short. As we pursue the marriage of truth and charity, let us strive to unite our small-w wills to God’s bigW will and so pursue that capital- s sanctity which is the foundation of every meaningful metanoia.

Devin Humphreys is a 3L at Notre Dame Law School. When he isn’t serving as the sacristan at the Law School Chapel, singing with the Liturgical Choir or Chorale or competing at a quiz bowl tournament, he’s sharing his thoughts on the legal developments of the day with anyone who will listen. For advice on law school, hot takes on Mass music and free scholarly publication ideas, reach out to Devin at dhumphr2@nd.edu or @ DevinJHumphreys on Twitter.

The views expressed in this column are those of the author and not necessarily those of The Observer.

By MARCELLE COUTO

senior scene Writer

on the evening of Good Friday, the notre dame Folk choir presented their much-anticipated work, “The Passion,” under a clear, starry sky on south Quad. I attended last year’s debut of “The Passion” and was markedly impressed, so naturally, I was excited to experience it again. This production managed to exceed any and all expectations. Although I witnessed the wonderful birth of “The Passion” last easter, I must confess, this year’s performance was personally transformative.

The performance on April 7 marked the conclusion of the tour through the east coast in support of the album. The staging was directed by matt hawkins, director of musical theater at notre dame, and the tour featured an all-student cast. In addition to this series of performances, the Folk choir recorded an album that was released on major music platforms on Ash Wednesday. The album was produced by Joe henry, a three-time Grammy winner, and was recorded in Jerusalem at the end of the choir’s pilgrimage to the holy Land.

I had the privilege of reviewing last year’s “Passion,” and must preface my thoughts by stating, with all certainty, that my first encounter with “The Passion” remains profound. What this year’s “Passion” did was merely increase the original merits of that production and emphasize its pointed effectual impacts, while also adding creative twists and incorporating a more active dialogue with the audience. In short, “The Passion” of Good Friday hit home for me due to the influence of a perfectly-suited environment, well-directed stylistic details and in particular, because of an innovative approach to staging.

This year’s open stage allowed the choir to truly shine, with the natural surroundings adding to the beauty and power of the music. The style of music of “The Passion” was a perfect match for the open-air setting on south Quad. As the sun set and the stars emerged, the music took on a luminous quality that was mirrored by the glow of the fires in the heaters placed around the perimeter of the stage. The stars above, the cool, clear evening and the warmth of the fires below created a magical atmosphere that perfectly complemented the choir’s performance. The setting was perfectly suited to the genre of music, which was both spiritual and earthy, blending soaring melodies with modern styles.

The staging, which was centered around a large table, was also a perfect fit for the open-air setting. The table served as the focal point for all the actions on stage. This approach was highly effective in bringing the audience closer to the story and making them feel like they were a part of the drama unfolding before them. As the characters recalled the events of the Passion narrative beginning with the Last supper, I noted the theme of a communal experience of emotion as well as a collective immersion in the mysteries of faith. The union of peoples was, of course, especially represented by the Folk choir coming together to create a harmonious work of praise. It was all made more evident and properly symbolized through the central table.

As the story progressed, Jesus suffered, carried his cross and eventually died on top of the table, creating a clear allegory of the holy sacrifice of the mass. This moment was especially poignant and left a weighty impact on the audience, as evidenced by the silence of awe and wonder I perceived at that moment. It seemed like a certain pressure of gravity had infected the air. moreover, the choir’s use of various musical styles throughout the performance was also reflective of the story’s emotional arc. The music started with a somber and reflective tone, mirroring the solemnity of holy saturday. As the story progressed, the music became more lively and hopeful, representing the eventual triumph over death and the resurrection of christ. It not only showcased the versatility and talent of the notre dame Folk choir but also contributed to the powerful emotional impact of the production. overall, the performance of “The Passion” by the notre dame Folk choir was an unforgettable experience that left a lasting impression. The combination of beautiful music, powerful staging and impressive acting created a deeply spiritual and emotional experience that left the audience feeling uplifted and inspired.

The choir’s style of music blended traditional hymn-like melodies and contemporary folk music, which created a unique musical combination. The hymn-like tunes were used to create a sense of reverence and awe, while the contemporary folk music provided a more personal and emotional connection to the story. The combination of these different styles of music helped to create a powerful and moving performance that transcended traditional musical boundaries.

A complete version of this article can be found online. Contact Marcelle Couto at mcouto@nd.edu

By CHRISTINE HILARIO scene Writer

This review contains spoilers for all of “Succession.” “hello! F****-sucky brigade. how can I help you?” is the last thing roman roy says on a phone call before learning his dad is dying — a scene that encapsulates how “succession” perfectly balances both biting humor and gutting emotional moments.

The season three finale found three of the roy siblings, Kendall, shiv and roman, finally united through their anger at their father for selling Waystar royco, the family company, and barring them from succession. The beginning of the fourth and final season seemed to be building toward some huge, dramatic confrontation between the kids and their father, Logan. In the first episode, Kendall, shiv and roman completely abandon their plans to start a new company separate from their family legacy in order to buy the news network their dad wants. In the second, Kendall and shiv plan to stall Waystar’s sale at a board meeting. essentially, the kids’ business strategy is to do whatever makes their dad the angriest. For the entirety of the series, the kids’ motivations have centered around their father, whether it be winning his approval or trying to “kill” him, in a business sense. Then, by the third episode, Logan is dead.

Logan’s death was inevitable. The very title of the show reminds you of the fact that someone must take over the company from the aging patriarch. however, characters as pivotal as Logan roy don’t die fifteen minutes into the third episode of a ten-episode season. The timing of his death isn’t just for shock value. Logan’s death will have devastating ramifications for the rest of the season, according to show creator Jesse Armstrong.

“We don’t just want to see people crying and then have a funeral and be done with the show,” Armstrong said. “We want to see how a death of someone significant rebounds around a family.”

The third episode is innocuously titled “connor’s Wedding,” and it’s perfectly constructed to convey the devastating impact of Logan’s death. In this episode, Logan has decided to skip the wedding of his eldest son connor in order to attend a business meeting. Kendall, shiv and roman, who are all attending connor’s wedding, have to be informed via phone call that their father has collapsed on the plane to his meeting and is in critical condition. There’s no dramatic death scene, and the audience finds out about Logan’s condition at the same time as the kids. There’s a sense of disbelief that a powerhouse like Logan would die so suddenly.

The performances in this episode are absolutely heartbreaking. despite their anger at their father, each of the kids desperately try to say their final words to him. sarah snook’s performance as shiv is particularly heartwrenching as we witness the usually collected shiv revert to a tearful, almost childlike state as she tells her father, “It’s ok, daddy. It’s ok, I love you.” The separation between Logan and his family is painful, and it all stems from Logan’s decision to always prioritize business over everything else. he dies surrounded by underlings who don’t care about him while his family can only communicate with him through the phone.

Logan was horrifyingly abusive to his children, and it’s obvious that it would be better if they could leave him and the company behind. however, there is no catharsis with Logan’s death, only pain and unresolved trauma. his death so early in the season will have ramifications that will push the series to new dramatic lengths, that I, for one, am excited to witness.

In honor of Logan roy’s death, I can only end this article with a tribute that has a certain “flava.” so, do yourself a favor and give “L to the oG” a watch in remembrance of the true oG.

Contact Christine Hilario at chilario@nd.edu

By FRANK PAQUETTE scene Writer

o n s aint Patrick’s d ay this year, the Irish rock band U2 released their new album, “ s ongs of s urrender,” on a limited edition n otre d ameinspired vinyl. While the tracks on the record themselves are an exciting showcase of the band’s range and timeless quality, the “ n otre d ame-ness” of the graphics on the product itself leaves something to be desired.

First, I want to discuss the physical record, which drew me to purchasing the album in the first place. I must admit, seeing a U2 product with any connection to n otre d ame is a thrill. It’s a strong choice for anyone collecting vinyls or n otre d ame paraphernalia, but the n otre d ame-inspired vinyl is only that—inspired. The large nd logo and “ n otre d ame edition v inyl” that was advertised to be on the front of the cover came off with the plastic packaging, which left me feeling a bit deceived. I often use the album cover as a wall-piece, and outside of its packaging, it barely connects to the Fighting Irish. The only two explicit references to n otre d ame are tiny nd logos on the vinyls and a poster that says “U2 s ongs of s urrender: n otre d ame edition” and has an nd logo the size of a quarter. The blue and gold vinyls and nd -colored art make the product well worth the purchase, but it definitely pulls its punches and is not the perfect balance of n otre d ame and U2 spirit you might be hoping for. o n the n otre d ame edition vinyl, the album’s content and style truly matches its medium. With its new acoustic, authentic feel, “ s ongs of s urrender” shines in the raw sound of a vinyl record. What once belonged on a car stereo or screamed by millions of fans now finds its rightful home on a crackling rotating disk, alluding more to a fairy tale past of stardom than to the glimmering future that U2 so often prophesied. I thought stripping U2’s rock grandeur would remove its appeal, when in reality it left me with a far more fundamental element of U2’s greatness: its poetic spirituality. The simpler instrumentals highlight the integrity of the crisp vocals and immortal songwriting that have driven the band since their beginning. r ather than giving fans another album with the unique style that defined them for decades, U2 invites them with “ s ongs of s urrender” into a deeply intimate look behind the curtain. It’s raw and original, and a gift to a listener itching to hear in one album the legacy of U2. It’s a surprise and it’s a joy.

The music itself from “ s ongs of s urrender” can best be described in one word: surprising. The n otre d ame edition of the album consists of 16 re-recorded timeless U2 songs, and presents them with an acoustic, new feel that strays radically from the band’s original work. “If God Will s end h is Angels,” the song that benefited most from the makeover, is far more cleaned-up than the original 1997 version. It’s rid of foreign electric noise and replaced with a piano that transforms the song from a sneaky experiment to a truly unforgettable prayer, demanding a place in the band’s pantheon of songs. Those great songs themselves also beat to a new proverbial drum in this album as “I s till h aven’t Found What I’m Looking For” turns from an epic ballad to a gentle lullaby, and “Where the s treets h ave n o n ame” demonstrates the band’s capability to create something new and exciting out of a tried-and-true legend.

Contact Frank Paquette at fpaquett@nd.edu

“Songs of Surrender”

Artist: U2

Label: Island Records, Interscope Records

Favorite tracks: “If God Will Send His Angels,” “One,” “Where the Streets Have No Name,” “Pride (In the Name of Love)”

If you like: “The Joshua Tree,” “A Rush of Blood to the Head,” “Babel”

By GABRIEL ZARAZUA senior scene Writer

What if I told you that sports are more than what happens on the field? sorry, I always wanted to make my own “30 For 30” slogan. Anyway, people seem to forget that what happens on the field in sports is only half the story. While we see the scoreboard and the athletes putting their all into the games they love, have you ever wondered why they are doing so? Why was a particular game so important? You may know a player, but do you really know their story? Well, “30 for 30” are the documentaries for you! They are a series of documentaries highlighting interesting people and events in sports history, and I’m here to recommend some of my personal favorites that are beginner friendly if you are getting into sports, or want to know more about stories you already know!

“Survive and Advance” now that we’re fresh off march madness, this story follows the 1983 nc state basketball team and their miraculous tournament run. With multiple comebacks and upsets against Unc with michael Jordan, U vA with ralph sampson, and the “Phi slama Jama” houston cougars featuring future nbA hall of Famers hakeem olajuwon and clyde drexler, nc state was one of the biggest underdogs ever. Led by head coach Jim valvano, this story also focuses on his life before and after the 1983 season, along with the experience of multiple players, who learn how far their trust in each other can take them.

“The Four Falls of Buffalo” how would you feel if you were only remembered for your greatest failures? This is the story of the 1990’s buffalo bills football team, who managed to make it to four straight super bowls and lose them all. This documentary focuses on our obsession with winning, how losing can overshadow one’s accomplishments, as well as how time can eventually heal all wounds.

“Four Days in October”

While it hurts to write about this as a Yankees fan, it is hard not to recommend the story of one of the biggest comebacks in sports history. It’s hard to win four games in a row and even harder to win four in a row against your arch rival… and a curse. Those were the odds against the boston red sox baseball team. over four consecutive days and nights, they miraculously won four straight games down 3-0 in the 2004 ALcs (American League championship series) to overcome the odds and reach their first World series in 86 years. behind the scenes footage lets you accompany the players and coaches through those four days and witness baseball history as they make it.

“Of Miracles and Men” one of the biggest upsets in sports history at the height of the cold War, a group of college athletes represented Team UsA in hockey and took down the heavily favored soviet national team in the 1980 Winter olympics. We think we know the whole story, when in reality we know only one side of it. This documentary follows the story through the eyes of the soviet national team, made up of good men who truly loved the game thanks to their passionate coach, Anatoly Tarasov. The actions of their country overshadowed these men, forcing them to live with a certain guilt following their loss to the U.s

“Catholics vs. Convicts”

In the fall of 1988, #4 notre dame would play #1 miami in what would be remembered as one of the greatest games in college football history, all thanks to the story behind it … including a shirt. Tradition versus swagger, Lou holtz versus Jimmy Johnson and Tony r ice versus steve Walsh. This game had it all, and it all came together due to one shirt made by notre dame students with the saying, “catholics vs. convicts.” director and notre dame alumni Patrick creadon looks back on the game, the story behind the two programs and how the shirt not only stained both schools’ reputations, but also crushed the dreams of the student who made it.

Contact Gabriel Zarazua at gzarazua@nd.edu

Happy Birthday: Don’t knock yourself out trying to please someone who doesn’t appreciate you. Take a step back and focus on yourself for a change. Make changes at home that address issues of concern so you can get on with your life and take advantage of whatever comes your way. It’s your turn to express your thoughts and fulfill your dreams. follow your heart and collect the rewards. your numbers are 6, 13, 22, 24, 30, 39, 43.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Don’t labor over what’s impossible. Consider what you can achieve by adjusting how you live and how you earn your living. Beef up your ideas and explore how to make your life less stressful. Protect your heart. TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Consistency matters. Make decisions and follow through. A change will help raise your awareness of the existing problems and how you can make a difference. It’s not enough to complain or criticize; make suggestions, offer solutions and take the helm if necessary.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Pay attention, or someone will take advantage of you. Ask questions and research anything that interests you. knowledge is power and will protect you from those looking for a free ride. Don’t labor over something that offers you nothing in return.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): life will throw you a curveball; it’s up to you to recognize where it’s coming from if you want to accept the challenge. Patience will help, but intelligence and presentation will lead you to the winner’s circle. Enjoy the ride.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): lend a helping hand. your insight and experience will be valuable when faced with multiple choices or joint expenses. Build alliances with colleagues; it will help you initiate a plan that benefits the underdog. your input will promote a leadership position.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): What you discover will alter how or where you live. Act quickly to take advantage of a time-sensitive offer. A change of location will increase your awareness and bring about change. Avoid emotional spending or paying for other people’s mistakes.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Stretch your mind. update how you present yourself and your attributes to ensure you attract favorable attention and improve your life. A routine will encourage continuity. Don’t get angry over what you can’t change.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Bypass anyone messing with your emotions. Stick close to home and do your best. Be sure to finish what you start. Counting on someone to do things for you will lead to disappointment and a change of heart. Think outside the box and something good will transpire.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Make plans to socialize and expand your interests. A hobby or investment you make will give you the push you need to get more involved in making your money grow. Do your due diligence, and everything will fall into place.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Stick to your budget. Bad behavior will weigh you down. refuse to let anyone play emotional games with you. fend for yourself and make decisions based on your needs. Don’t fold under pressure or threats. Avoid stressful situations.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Take whatever you do seriously. your effort will be graded by those you are trying to impress. It will help if you focus on what you want to achieve instead of comparing yourself to others. Take advantage of an opportunity while you can.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): finish what you start. getting matters out of the way will ease your mind and give you a reason to celebrate. Consider how you can make changes that improve your lifestyle and your relationship with others. Protect against insult, injury and illness.

Birthday Baby: you are playful, entertaining and proactive. you are idealistic and confident.