Ordination Day - Chicago

Today was a special day as I had a chance to attend my first-ever ordination mass at Holy Name Cathedral here in Chicago.

During the mass fourteen men, including a friend of mine, were ordained to the priesthood by Chicago's archbishop Francis Cardinal George. (Profiles of the new priests can be found here.)

As these new priests were being ordained, I could not help but to reflect upon the priests that have been influential in my life, as well as the countless priests who have served the Church throughout the centuries dating back to the time of the Apostles.

I was quite moved by the whole experience.

The day was filled with memorable moments: my first look at the splendor of the newly renovated cathedral; the incredible entrance procession of a half dozen bishops, dozens of priests, and the fourteen ordinandi; the beautiful music and singing of the choir; the Litany of the Saints;, the laying on of hands; the applause for the newly ordained; and the first blessings.

At the end, I felt renewed, and I left the church filled with joy and with great hope for the future!

Notes:

1. My favorite video about the priesthood, "Fishers of Men" can be viewed here.

2. A neat video from Grassroots films: "Ordination, 2009" can be viewed here.

3. Information on vocations to the priesthood can be found here.

4. A look at 7 reasons to consider becoming a priest can be found here.