Profession of Faith...Day 2

December 8th, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, greeted us with snow and high winds. We were anxiously awaiting the arrival of the rest of our family, brother Rick and sister Angie and their families. They flew into Denver and then rented a 12 passenger van to drive up to Cheyenne. We had concerns that maybe the weather would prevent them from arriving in time for the Profession of Faith Prayer Service scheduled for 2:00 in the afternoon. God however, was in charge, and the rest of my family arrived in time for lunch and the prayer service.

The prayer service was held at St. Mary's Cathedral. Bishop Daniel Buechlein was the presider. Bishop Gettelfinger, the Bishop of Evansville, was also present along with Cheyenne's retired Bishop, Bishop Hart. This was a very important service because Paul signed important documents that were essential in ordaining him Bishop of Cheyenne. Scripture was read, a homily was given, important church documents were read and then the necessary documents were signed. Paul had a few closing remarks...that brought tears to the eyes of everyone...and then a final blessing was given.

Friends and family were invited to celebrate the Holy Day Mass. We gathered and worshipped together and then enjoyed a relaxing banquet together at the Little American Hotel in Cheyenne. Again, many stories were shared as the atmosphere was filled with laughter and a few tears. We were so touched by the hospitality shown to us by the beautiful people of Wyoming. We were treated like royalty. My nieces and nephew felt like celebrities.

After the banquet several friends visited us at the Bishop's residence. We continued the stories and laughter. Friendships were deepened, renewed and made. God was ever present in every aspect of the day. It was soon time for the day to end. We said good bye to our friends and good night to one another. The end of day 2 was upon us.