The Ides of March

Things are slowly pointing in the direction of spring. Today's temperature brought about a considerable amount of melting. I didn't spend any time outdoors because of the amount of chores that I had to do.

Tomorrow at church, we will have a opportunity to welcome Adjunct Professor of Pastoral Theology, Dr. Albert Rossi, of St. Vladimir's Orthodox Seminary, with a day-long retreat. It begins with the sharing of simple salad, soup and bread. During the course there will be confession at the church and people will become familiar with the church of St. Michael here in Southbridge. We have a museum which will be of interest to some, while the church will be open for visiting and prayerful reflection. Snacks will be provided during the day as well as beverages. The day of quiet reflection and lecture will end with a Vesper Service beginning at 5PM. Shortly thereafter, our Archbishop will arrive, coming from Hartford (BDL), to serve our parish on Sunday with a Liturgy at 10.
We will bring Icons to participate in our walk. Loretta tells us that her mom will celebrate her 100th. birthday at coffee following Liturgy.

The evening will bring about a dinner at 12 Crane to celebrate with the Archbishop, where a fish meal is being prepared in his honor.

Monday and Tuesday will be equally demanding as our clergy will meet. The dean will enjoy their rooms in the luxurious and farely new Conference Center, which is just down the street from St. Michael's.

It is a hugh undertaking and I know we will be both blessed and glad when it is all over and we can get back to whatever normal is.