Our community grew to six members on September 30th, when we welcomed Victoria Olsen as a dokimos (postulant) during Vespers for the Feast of the Protection of the Mother of God. Victoria entered on the patronal feast day of her home parish, Holy Protection of the Mother of God Byzantine parish in Denver. Her pastor, Fr. Michael O'Loughlin, was able to make the trip out to be present for her entrance day. He reminded us that the feast day is also the patronal feast of Victoria's home eparchy, Holy Protection of Mary Byzantine Catholic Eparchy of Phoenix! Victoria's parents, grandmas and a cousin were also able to be present. Enjoy these
photos from the day!
Here are some beautiful words from our bishop's homily:
“Entrusting: what a beautiful concept…on this Feast of the Protection of the Mother of God. Jesus entrusted his good friend, John, to His Mother. He said ‘Here is your mother. Trust her.’ And we know that Mary is that image of the Church, and God entrusts us to this beautiful instutition, organization, family: the Church. And so we do trust and we do have to have that kind of faith, and today is an opportunity for us to entrust ourselves into the hands of: a superior, into the hands of those who have been given to us for support. …We know that Victoria has in the past and will continue to thank her family, and we in the name of the Church thank her family for showing her that right to trust, that ability to trust. [This trust] comes from living in a strong family, or it comes later in life with the grace of God. …We take a moment to be reminded of those to whom we are entrusted. …We thank God for the gift of His Mother, whose mantle is held over us, to show us that indeed it is a mantle of love, a mantle of interest and care for us. And so, how appropriate we do trust, and we indeed want to maintain that newness in our life and not lose that first fervor that is easy to lose. …I am sure that God has great things in store for [Victoria] as she continues her discernment now to determine if in fact this community is where she will find God’s plan for her.”
Here are some beautiful words from our bishop's homily:
“Entrusting: what a beautiful concept…on this Feast of the Protection of the Mother of God. Jesus entrusted his good friend, John, to His Mother. He said ‘Here is your mother. Trust her.’ And we know that Mary is that image of the Church, and God entrusts us to this beautiful instutition, organization, family: the Church. And so we do trust and we do have to have that kind of faith, and today is an opportunity for us to entrust ourselves into the hands of: a superior, into the hands of those who have been given to us for support. …We know that Victoria has in the past and will continue to thank her family, and we in the name of the Church thank her family for showing her that right to trust, that ability to trust. [This trust] comes from living in a strong family, or it comes later in life with the grace of God. …We take a moment to be reminded of those to whom we are entrusted. …We thank God for the gift of His Mother, whose mantle is held over us, to show us that indeed it is a mantle of love, a mantle of interest and care for us. And so, how appropriate we do trust, and we indeed want to maintain that newness in our life and not lose that first fervor that is easy to lose. …I am sure that God has great things in store for [Victoria] as she continues her discernment now to determine if in fact this community is where she will find God’s plan for her.”
What beautiful pictures! Thank you so much for sharing them. Once again, the joy on each lovely face is just glorious and contagious to us, the beholders. It's a wonderful thing to see these young women taking the time to step away from this world, opening up their hearts & souls and asking Christ, "Is this the life and are these the plans You have for me?" And being able to wait,listen for and discern His reply. It's an honor and privilege to pray for these sweet sisters!
ReplyDeleteThank the Lord for His continued blessings as the community of Christ the Bridegroom continues to grow! May the Theotokos continue to be your model, your protection & guide! Congratulations, Victoria! You will be in our prayers! We can't wait to meet you! :) God's blessings upon you all!
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