The Sanctorum mass went well last night. I hosed it as thurifer once, since it was following the Anglican rite, and not the Roman Catholic or Russian Orthodox ones I'm more-used to. Hopefully only those "in the know" noticed this. But it was powerful, and exceedingly well-done for a first time. Fr. Travis celebrated beautifully, and I found myself tearing up a few times---and it wasn't just the incense smoke. ;-) However, I'm going to buy the parish a box of the large "Three Kings" charcoal. The small Greek charcoals are for home use, and they go out FAR too fast when you attempt to swing the thurible.
My Guadalupe statue was a big hit last night. I'm so glad I brought her and the votive rack. Just before the Mass ended, they did "Hail, Holy Queen", Fr. Travis standing before her, with Ray (crocifer) and I (as thurifer) on either side of the shrine. A lovely ending.
I'm coming to be more and more impressed with the clergy here. Talk about people who have taken a HUGE step back from clericalism. It's a bit difficult for me, since I grew up being taught the "difference" between the ordained and the laity. Even when priests encouraged folks to see them as "just one of the people", we had all been raised with such a strong idea of that "difference", that it was not easy to overcome. Rev. Karen and Fr. Travis have managed to breach that wall.
I'm still hesitant. I want to help, and be helpful, but I'm afraid of stepping on toes.
I really like these people. A lot.
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