Father Benedict

Over a decade ago, Ryan went to visit with a priest, seeking spiritual direction regarding a possible vocation to the priesthood or religious life. He talked his friend, Michael, into accompanying him on this visit. The priest told Ryan that he wasn't sure of his vocation, but then turned to Michael and said that he knew with certainty that he was called to the priesthood. (Of course the story is much longer than this!)

On June 26 of this year Michael became Father Benedict. Ryan took a long weekend to attend his Ordination and First Mass in Southern California, where the Norbertine Abbey is located. A week later, Fr. Benedict came and stayed with us for a few days. The boys were very excited to have him and his supernatural priest-power staying in our house. He blessed the house, the kids, salt, oil, Ryan's birthday cake and everything else he could shake holy water at. We celebrated Holy Mass in our living room (John Paul in Spiderman jammies), a Requiem for Myra, and a Mass for the sick for Ambrose and cousin, Nico. John Paul and Ryan's dad were both enrolled and invested with the Brown Scapular. We packed lots of things into a few days, including a hiking trip in Sedona, which really put "life with 4 boys" into perspective for Fr Benedict, who shared the backseat of the van with them. Next trip we promise not to hop them up on pudding, chocolate, and gallons of Tang.

Congratulations, Father Benedict! And come stay with us again soon.