I have experienced some amazing things in my life thus far and the last weekend in October was nothing short but incredible. I am going to attempt to put it all into words, very rarely am I without them, but I have sat down a few times to try to capture all my thoughts, feelings and emotions from this weekend. Here is what I’ve come up with!
October 28th, 2023, I was invested as an Officer into the Military and Hospitaller Order of St Lazarus. It was a weekend filled with so much of Gods love, I felt it immediately walking into the postulant orientation Thursday afternoon. When we said our first prayers as a group, I had chills the entire time. There is no doubt God led me here, to meet these amazing people and give back to the world in this way.
Tampa, FL
Friday I attended the hospitaller meeting in the morning, which is the heart of the charity aspect of the order. Members can put forth a project or charity that needs financial assistance, they include what the project is set to accomplish and how much funding they need in order to make it happen. There were so many amazing projects we discussed, everything from helping Infant Welfare Center in the Holy Land to New Orleans Homeless Van Project. My head was swimming with how I can help, from fundraising to volunteering, (so don’t be surprised if you see some fundraising events from me in the near future!) You can read more about these amazing projects here.
Friday evening was the vigil service. After a brief orientation on what to do (mainly follow the Marshal’s orders), we headed to the church. My goodness it was a beautiful church! We stood in the back while everything was situated, then the vigil began. If I am being honest, it was a bit of a blur. I was taking it all in, being more quiet than even I am used to. Once we got to the pew, we started in prayer as well as confirming I was ready to take the next step. We walked up and stood at the front of the church where I confirmed “I shall serve” to the best of my ability in the order. My thoughts the next morning:
“Reflecting back on the vigil yesterday, wow, the church was absolutely gorgeous. As soon as I walked in, I felt God’s love and presence in a way I hadn’t experienced before. I knew this was where I needed to be in order to grow and become more of the woman I am meant to be. The service was fascinating; some parts were a blur, but I can remember just being so thankful and grateful. We stood a lot, which reminded me of getting ready for the Miss for America pageant- although I wasn’t in 6-inch heels (more like 4).”
That evening we had a cocktail dinner where I spent time with the other members of the order, such amazing people, experiences and conversations.
Saturday was the investiture. Part of the service was similar to the day before but it was more celebratory. I officially became an officer, was awarded my blessed medal and mantel. After all the postulants become members/officers, other members of the order were presented medals of great work and promotions.
Of course, we couldn’t end the weekend without a gala Saturday evening. Last year I attended the St Lazarus gala as a guest, it was quite a different feeling attending as an Officer of the Order. Being able to get to know the rest of the members, give thanks for our ability to be there, to give back in the way that we do.
What an incredible weekend. One filled with Gods grace and amazing people with great hearts. I could feel Gods love just walking in the room. It’s amazing how things just end up falling into place, looking at where I am and what needed to happen for me to be here and now. How many twists and turns, trusting God, trusting myself.
I am excited for this next chapter and what it will bring.
