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Outlaw Ordination Notes
Abstract: Who was that masked man?
Our "ears on the ground" at Lionel Ketola's ordination report a festive mood, aided in no small measure by the excellent saxophone playing of Michael Hackbusch. We don't know whose arrangement of Amazing Grace was used in the pre-service music, but more than one reporter made a point of praising it.
During the sermon, Pr. Dawn Hutchings asked the members of Holy Cross to stand. They were saluted with about 5 minutes of sustained applause.
Americans in attendance were surprised to find the office of beadle (Andre Lavergne) listed among the ordination participants. Historically the beadle is "a parish constable, one often charged with duties of charity."
Donning "lone ranger" style masks for photos after the service, some of the assembled clergy provided a moment of comic relief from fears over Bishop Michael Pryse's decision that participating clergy could be subject to discipline. A number of clergy were present in the congregation, but did not vest or participate.
In a May 16 letter to the congregation, Bishop Pryse offered the assurance of his "continued love and collegial friendship":
Although we may not be able to support one another in all our respective decisions, I pray that God will continue to grant us the grace required to honour the bonds of love and mutual respect that bind us to one another. Please know that my prayers remain with you this day and all days. May your bold and committed ministry to the community continue to be marked with the signs of God's love, and may the Lord grant us all strength and peace in the days ahead.
