The final weekend

Arlina and I are off to the final weekend of my deacon formation program. I remember getting ready to leave for the first one, and thinking how 40 weekends (over 4 years) seemed like forever. At the time, someone told me it would pass in the blink of an eye, and it has.

A few weeks ago I had a meeting with the bishop of my diocese. We spoke for a while about my formation, and the various ministries I have been involved with over the years. I told him about my life, and the twists and turns it has taken. We spoke of Arlina's illness, and the challenges and blessings it has brought us. At the end he asked me if I wanted to be ordained, and I said yes.

Last Friday I received a letter from him, inviting me to receive the sacrament of Holy Orders as a deacon. My ordination will be June 5th.

I have written of my struggles with discernment, and the decision that I would eventually have to make about whether to be ordained or not. I have spent much time in prayer and reflection, and now feel at peace.

For those of you who have been praying for me, I ask you to continue. The road ahead is a difficult one, and I am unable to walk it without help.

Peace.