Congratulations Father Michael

This weekend was incredibly heartwarming. My cousin Michael, or should I say Father Michael, was Ordained an Episcopalian Priest on Saturday. We have all watched him challenge his faith, dedicate his life, and grow passionately into his calling. I have immense respect for his decision to join the Priesthood and pray that one day I will have as much gumption in my own career choice. I am so proud of him from the very center of my being.

It was a marathon weekend filled with church, parties, brunch, receptions, and more church. It was the most action I have seen in a while. The Ordination was lovely and I found myself tearing up too many times to count. But I think I cried the hardest when Michael presented his mom with a dozen roses. Having a son of my own, I couldn't help brimming with pride at the thought of watching Wyatt accomplish his dreams. It was incredibly moving seeing St. John's overflowing with people that have fostered Michael's journey and have watched him grow through out his life. Auntie De threw a great party at Uncle Jackie's house that was quite unforgettable. Wyatt was a hit and behaved like an angel. Well, minus pooping through his button down shirt and onto Uncle Jackie. I had him all dressed up like a mini-man in khakis and a sweater vest. He held a captive audience while he smiled and was generally charming. With so many hands about I actually got to take a little bit of the breather and have a drink. My family was dutifully embarrassing to all visitors. Especially when singing 'Happy Birthday' to Simon every time he entered the room. I am not even sure if it really was his birthday.

When I was pregnant, I watched a young babe go up for communion with his mother. Father Simon placed a hand on the child's head and gave him a blessing. From then on I have had this odd fixation with taking Wyatt to church to get blessed. Michael's first Eucharist was on Sunday. I, of course, had to bring Wyatt despite being slightly anxious about a grunting baby in a very acoustic church. Wyatt slept through the entire service with mild cooing. I brought Wyatt up with me during communion and Michael placed his newly blessed hands upon him. I am such a sap. I started crying. Something about seeing Mike bless my son made me feel so loved. Made me remember how loved Wyatt is and how lucky he is to have so many people support him. I thought it was a fitting end to Michael's Ordination weekend.