Plans Change

Well...we were supposed to go to San Angelo yesterday and today, so we could attend the ordination of our dear friend Fr. Michael as he entered into his episcopacy.  However, early yesterday morning Zaira began a terrible bout with an unknown virus (the flu?) followed by Henry and Brendan (Edward is possibly sick as well but has too much energy to let a virus wear him down).  As the day progressed into trying to make these sick children comfortable, Michael and I decided to take the time to work on a home improvement project instead.

Sean was excited as well...he was able to attend his first youth group meeting at church.  He had a lot of fun and met some nice teenagers his age.  He even volunteered to help at the youth Mass that will take place next Sunday.

Michael and I continued our project throughout the day today.  It was frustrating at times, but we finally completed our new mudroom (really a hall way) area so we have a place to keep coats and shoes.  We purchased the set and had to put it together ourselves.  The tough part was the bench area because it was too wide for the space.  However, Michael worked hard to cut it down to fit the space.

We almost had it finished before watching the ordination on the internet.  It was not quite the same as being there but I still had tears of joy shed as I watched this godly man take on this amazing role for the Church.  We are so blessed to have him as a spiritual leader.  We hope to go see him in the next couple of weeks when things settle down here and the weather is nicer.

Some of the highlights of the ordination:

• There were 21 bishops and 1 cardinal in attendance at the ordination Mass.
• Our bishop from San Antonio (Bishop Gustavo) was the presider of the Mass.
  
• The readings for the Mass were from Jeremiah 1:5-10...God's knew the plans for our lives before we were born.  Then Psalm 23 was sung to introduce the idea of shepherd for the flock.  Then reference to the letter of Paul to Timothy shared the importance of the episcopacy.  The highlight was the Gospel of John read by Deacon Sis (Bishop Michael's father) telling the story of Jesus meeting with Peter after the resurrection (21: 15-17) which led to the focus of the homily.
• Before the homily, the business of proclaiming the mandate given by Pope Francis was read and accepted by the College  of Consultors.  
• Bishop Gustavo gave a beautiful homily...sharing with Bishop Sis that his role is to lead the diocese from the front, be among the people to unite in faith, and stand behind to assure that no one is left behind.
• It was such a joy to see Bishop Sis profess his vow of fidelity before the crowd in attendance.  
• Then the prayers of the Litany of Saints were sung ending with the plea for God to "bless, sanctify, and consecrate this chosen man."
• We were all excited to see the laying of hands on Bishop Sis followed by the Book of Gospels "poured forth" on Bishop Sis.  Then the full anointing with oil by Bishop Gustavo.  
  
• Bishop Sis was then presented his ring of fidelity, his miter to show the desire for the splendor of holiness and unfailing crown of glory, and his crosier to symbolize his duty as shepherd to the flock. 
• The Mass continued as normal and then ended with a first blessing of the people and 3 words from the new Bishop Sis...gratitude, prayer, and hope.  

It was hard to want to go back to the everyday after such an experience...even seeing it on the live stream a powerful presence of the Holy Spirit was evident.

However, Michael and I did manage to complete the project.  I am really proud of the way it looks and hope the children use the space (crossing my fingers that it helps us keep this area organized!)  What was once a blank wall with a funny indention is now this amazing space!

It turned out to be a blessed day.  Although I hate having the children sick, we managed to make the most of the time and still saw the ordination.  Now I just need to get the children well again!  Special blessings and prayers are always appreciated.