Category: The Lead

It is thought to be a success. The city of Munich was full of crowds of young people wearing orange scarves, praying, singing, and yes— having a great time . . . One thing that was different from any comparable ecumenical event in America is the way “hot topics” were featured — nothing watered down.

He is dressed as if he were expecting us — polished shoes, pressed pants, a navy button-down all buttoned up — and he has a lot to say. He cuts Frank short before he can discuss the last readings he left. “This carpal tunnel is killing me, Franky,” he says huskily, stretching his arms and fingers out in angry defiance. “I tried to lift a two-pound weight the other day and it hurt so bad I wanted to go somewhere and croak. I’ve been disgusted with people in the world and with myself. I’m not going to lie to you Franky, I didn’t read a scripture, a Watchtower or an Awake!.”