After a refreshing trip home during winter break, I have resumed my studies at Holy Cross. Some highlights from my trip home were going to the Pacific Ocean to bless the waters on the Feast of Theophany, hiking in the Redwoods, and spending time with my family and all my dear friends.
This is now the end of the second week of classes, and what a blessed time it has been. Liturgy is being served every morning at Holy Resurrection, and this has been an opportunity for the grace of God to enter and sanctify every day in astonishing ways. I feel I am entering deeper into the curriculum at Holy Cross, and contemplating more seriously what it means to serve the church.
Another great blessing was a vigil that was celebrated at Holy Cross to commemorate the memory of the three great teachers of the Church, Sts. Basil the Great, Gregory the Theologian, and John Chrysostom. This vigil was in the style of Anonite vigils, lasting from 7pm to 2am. The chanting was phenomenal; two choirs comprised of some of the best chanters in the country singing with all their hearts in antiphonal style. Their voices were angelic and carried us up into the heavens, making the lengthy vigil seem quite short. I was able to record three hours of the service, which you can listen to in the video below. I hope it gives you a taste of what we experienced, and uplifts and blesses you as much as it did all of us in attendance.
As a final note, if you feel inspired to support my education, you can do so conveniently by using the "Donate" button. Any support is greatly appreciated!
In Christ,
Gabe
