For most of today I was involved in the Rite of Sending at my local church, and then the Call to Continuing Conversion of Candidates to the Catholic Church at St. Patrick's Cathedral in Harrisburg, PA. Both ceremonies were beautifully done, but especially the latter with its huge-sounding organ and massive choir. Click HERE for the virtual tour of St. Patrick's.First the 9am service at my local church had both the catechumens (unbaptized RCIA members) and candidates (previously baptized, like me) step forward and be recognized, along with our sponsors, at Mass. Then later in the afternoon, we all traveled to Harrisburg to stand before the Bishop himself, Most Reverend Kevin C. Rhoades, who gave a very stirring homily for the occasion.
Afterwards I stood in line for nearly a half hour waiting to have my picture taken with Bishop Rhoades, a very nice fellow, who also honored me by blessing my rosary. I was so nervous I had trouble smiling during the meeting, but the Bishop was a very good sport and took it well.
While I was waiting in line to see him, some of the RCIA staff members were betting on whether or not I would be taller than the Bishop with his hat on, once we stood together. See pic with handshake. See also HERE.
