I’ve been in Cullman, Alabama all week, at the beautiful Saint Bernard Abbey and Retreat Center, leading a retreat for seven men about to be ordained deacons for the Archdiocese of Atlanta.
It’s been a beautiful and inspiring four days, but a huge snow and ice storm is about to hit, so we’re cutting things short. I’m heading back to Florida on Thursday.
The retreat ended on an emotional and spiritual high note Wednesday night, with something I hadn’t experienced before: a blessing of the stoles that the men will receive at their ordination on February 1.
It took place at the conclusion of a Holy Hour of Adoration and Benediction in the stunning abbey church. Each man was blessed personally with the Blessed Sacrament.
Then, after a special blessing over the stoles, the vestments were handed out.
But the most powerful and poignant moment occurred just before then, when the Diaconate Director Deacon Dennis Dorner washed the feet of the candidates. The men hadn’t been told this would happen. Trust and believe: there wasn’t a dry eye in the church.
I’m grateful to have spent these days with these men — and with the superb formation team led by Director Deacon Dennis, and his Co-directors of Formation, Deacon José Espinosa and Penny Simmons.
Atlanta, you are richly blessed.
Watch this space for ordination pictures in early February! Meantime, please keep these guys and all the candidates preparing for ordination in your prayers.
