Brother Andrew's Ordination

Today is a big day in the life of the Christ in the Desert community. Archbishop Sheehan has arrived from Santa Fe to preside over the ordination of Brother Andrew as a deacon. That's him in the middle, flanked by Abbot Philip (l), guestmaster Brother Andre (c), and Prior Christian (r).

Like other ordination services I've attended, it takes about two hours. Except, as you see, the Catholics have cool hats. And they do big liturgies really well.

Andrew is Vietnamese, and tied into the growing Vietnamese community of Albuquerque. One of their representatives made a public statement to the Archbishop at the service, imploring him to nurture more leadership for their segment of the church. Personally, that scene will remain as one of the highlights of the day.

So I reflect on "ministry" - which is the Risen Christ's ministry done through human hands, hearts, and minds. Should anybody have doubts about the Word Becoming Flesh, I would point them to sisters and brothers (like Andrew) who announce the love and justice of God through Word, Sacrament, and Service [the three points of the Archbishop's homily]. The Incarnation happens every day, somewhere, somehow.

This has been a remarkable retreat for me, and it compels me back to the work I do and the people I serve. God has called me to be a pastor, specifically to be the pastor of the good folks in Clarks Summit, and that call has never felt stronger than now. I am blessed to serve a community of faith that exemplifies the Incarnation, and it is a deep privilege to have this time away to be filled with scripture and strengthened in prayer. Thanks to all who are making it possible! I deeply appreciate it.

Following the ordination, there's a huge blowout in the gathering hall. (Those are rice pancakes wrapped around shrimp with a spicy ginger dipping sauce). The menu includes green chile pepper chicken, shrimp fried rice, and the largest pile of Asian noodles that I have ever seen. Dessert includes three large chocolate cakes from Sam's Club, affectionately termed "Monk's Mecca" by Brother Leander.

There is also an adequate amount of wine. As a guest of the monastery who wishes to contibute through daily work, Prior Christian directed me to mop the floor on the previous day. Now he asks if I could help him uncork twenty or twenty-five of the bottles. No problem.

The Pinot Noir is particularly good. I had to have a few glasses to make sure.

Due to the festivities, the Abbot lightens the prayer and worship schedule. And he reminds us that we will convene again tomorrow at 4:00 AM for a dozen psalms. It's going to be Sunday, after all.