Paul Manz, R.I.P.
Comments(1) I was saddened to learn of the death of Paul Manz (May 10, 1919 – October 28, 2009). If you’re not an organist or a Lutheran, this name might not mean much to you. You can read the Wikipedia article, but it doesn’t really explain why he made such a difference to so many people. You see, Paul Manz did something that very few people have done: he inspired a generation (or two) to worship God with deeper joy and greater delight.
Paul Manz was the Cantor (leader of song, the same title J. S. Bach used in his music ministry) at Mount Olive Lutheran Church in Minneapolis. More than that, he led hundreds or maybe thousands of hymn festivals across the country. He’d dazzle congregations with his improvisions, especially his hymn introductions. And none of this was to make himself look good. He was too pious for that. No, his entire life could be summarized in the three Latin words that Bach inscribed on many of his manuscipts: Soli Deo gloria. To God alone be the glory.
Many readers will recognize the old phrase “to swim the Tiber.” This has long been a clever way to talk about people who convert from Anglican churches to the Roman Catholic church. The Vatican made waves recently when it announced plans to receive Anglicans en masse. Personally, I don’t think very many Americans will take the Pope up on his offer.
I owe a few of you an apology, dear readers. Over the past few days, I received several email notices of comments, only everything was blank. Given all the ways spammers try to wedge their way into 7WD, I thought this was a by-product of a new spam attack. Then, today, I went to add a new post. Wow.
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