Heather and I arrived home from our whirl wind trip to Chicago last night around 10:30.

All in all it was an incredible trip.  Heather and I were able to meet another member of our Holy Synod, His Emenence Archbishop Job and were able to take the Eucharist from his hand.

We were priviliged to have been praying at a Vigil for the Saints of North America, in a Cathedral that houses the Epitrachelion of St Tikhon, Patriarch of Moscow; the cathedral was also consecrated by St. Tikhon.

The Most perfect joy we had was of course watching Joel Wilson a dear friend of ours, be tonsured a reader, and blessed as a sub-deacon.  We have only known Joel for a short time, but in that time I have seen his love, servants attitude and a heart that is seeking God.  I look forward to watching from the sidelines as he runs his race; I can just imagine where it will take him.

I would be remiss to close this brief discourse without touching upon one of my favorite experiences from this weekend; being able to spend time eating and laughing with Joel's family.  I told him more than once that he is very lucky to have such a wonderful family.  Heather and I both found them to be warm and accepting... and at least one of them a bit insane, I think we all know who I am referring to *cough* Caleb *cough*.

Well that is enough for now, I am working on a proper entry that will explore the impact this weekend had on Heather and I, but for now I take my leave of you.