The Holy Eucharist with Reaffirmation of Baptismal and Ordination Vows, and Consecration of Chrism took place at Christ Church Cathedral at 12:10pm on Tuesday, March 31st.
More than 90 clergy and 45 lay attended the mid-day worship. Following the liturgy there was a luncheon for diocesan clergy.
Bishop Melissa Skelton was the presider and preacher. She began her homily by recalling a conversation with a newly ordained person. They spoke about the fact that even after ordination and the process leading up to ordination that the process never stops. Those called are "still full of longing for the vocation we have already said 'yes' to."
Her homily was inspired by the Gospel reading John 15: 9-17. For many this is the best advice and encouragement that Jesus shares with his disciples. Therefore Bishop Skelton said she would offer some advice and encouragement to a congregation consisting primarily of clergy. She shared five pieces of advice, they were:
- Cleave to your baptism - Baptism secures your identity and worth, no matter what.
- Pray daily - Prayer creates realities, changes perspectives, renews hearts and minds. It changes us for the better. Find time to be in God's presence every day.
- Love your people - Please, love your people. Find a way to love them, find a way to give them your heart, no matter how difficult they are. And when you love them and time has past, then love them enought to let them go.
- Apologize freely - "Let yourself out of the jail of perfection." Admit your vulnerabilities and liabilities.
- Rely on others - "Our time on this earth together is limited." Find a Spiritual Director, regularly visit a therapist. Invite someone to be your "spritual friend." Offer to help someone else in this way. Lower your guard and "love one another."
Following the liturgy and before the luncheon, Bishop Skelton positioned herself in the the west chancel alcove and over the next 30 minutes dozens of clergy and lay lined up single file to receive an episcopal blessing.
There is a Facebook photo album on line. Click the link.