As of the time of this publishing I am probably up to my neck in ecclesia, just finishing the reading of the 3rd and 6th hours, or the Royal Hours as they are commonly known, and am now watching my Bishop being vested in the midst of the faithful at my little church.

And so begins the real life of my Parish.  In many ways this is a watershed moment for my Parish and specifically, three men who attend.  Three good friends of mine will be tonsured Readers, the first office of the minor orders, and the first step in a treck that could take one or all of them to the Priesthood.

This is an exciting time for our Parish, but also a nerve-racking one.  Anytime you have visitors you feel the pressure to "perform", and you can only imagine how much more so when you have the first visit of someone whom is as dear to you as your Bishop.  Today begins a new chapter in my life, and that of my Parish Family, I pray that the Triune God will perfect the faith of those who gather in His name, and protect those that have undertaken service to His Church, and the families they represent.

The cassock is very heavy, and not just for those who don them.