Well it isn't my first Holy Week. I've been observing Holy Week almost all of my life. But this Holy Week is different than any other. This is the first Holy Week since I began discerning the priesthood, since I began my training my rector. I have decided to shadow him for the entire week, attending every service, and every home and hospital visitation. This will mean some long days and tired nights. But hopefully it will give myself and my family some valuable into what my future life as a priest might be like.
I know that it won't be easy for me or my family but I think it helps me to understand the enormity of the job I am hoping to undertake and the strain it will present on my wife and children. But I also think that it will be an opportunity for my family and to grow with one another after Holy Week in the break that follows.
So I've been given the opportunity to preach and to do the stations of the cross. I am definitely nervous, most definitely apprehensive, but nonetheless excited about the opportunity to serve. Lately I had grown worried about my preparation about paying attention to the details. But now more than anything I want to pay attention to the worship I am offering to God and the thanks I have for just being his. That is the most important thing.
Growing up, I loved Holy Week. Now I find myself loving it more.
