The whole of this last year there has been a growing sense of excitement as two of our kiddos, Alyssa and Efrain, finished off their pandemic-delayed RE classes so they could be confirmed and receive their first holy communion. Wednesday was finally the day!
If I’d been thinking, I would have taken the kids out of school early so we could properly prepare ourselves. As it was, we had to rush them home from school, do a quick change act, and rush out the door with hairbrushes in hand to grab a quick bite at McDonalds before getting them to the church by 5:00 so they could get signed in and find their seats and get settled with their sponsors. It so happened that they and their sponsors were placed in the last reserved row on the left side, with one empty row behind them, and it was a short row (meaning there was room for my wheelchair) so we were essentially able to sit together as a family.
The mass was beautiful, with bilingual scripture readings and homily. Paul was able to get some photos from the front, and although my camera is just not up to the lighting in the church I’m so thankful to have captured some memories of such a special night. I did manage to get a couple of terrific shots of our dear Bishop from my privileged spot on the center aisle, which made me happy. Trying to capture quality photos in difficult lighting like that (with admittedly a lower end camera) always makes me especially appreciative of the exceptional skill and artistry that goes into Allison Girone’s fantastic liturgical photography. I may or may not want to be her some day…
After mass, Laurent took a few of the kids and Paul up to the choir loft so they could check out the view from up high, and see our amazing Peragallo organ up close. Ellie even got a little lesson from Sister Holy Hope! (She said she was absolutely shaking – partly from the height, and partly from the excitement of being able to touch that instrument!)
Laurent also took Lyss and Efrain to Dairy Queen afterward for a special treat, which rounded off the celebratory evening.
We are just tremendously thankful our children were finally able to receive these holy sacraments and the graces that accompany them. God is so good!
