justinmToday is the big day. At 1:00pm I’ll be doing first confession, reception, and now confirmation (the latter was a surprise). I’m going to take the name Justin after St. Justin Martyr. I’ve chosen him for several reasons. First, he’s a figure who bridges East and West since he was born in the East and died in Rome. I want to help bridge that current gap as a Catholic. Second, he’s a lay figure who taught and defended the Faith. Third, he was a philosopher who wore their academic garb. I want, as a layman, to teach and defend the Faith at the university level. Fourth, Justin was the first Church Father I ever read all the way through. And finally, he died for his faith courageously and without hesitation, the ultimate sacrifice that all who seek to follow Christ may be asked to make.

It all starts at 1:00pm and I’m both scared and excited. It’s a big step in my life, but one I have to make. I want to thank all those who have been supportive of me through this: my girlfriend, my many online friends (especially David and Chuck), my Anglican friends who have been incredibly supportive (esp. my former Rector and other priests who are fighting the good fight), and my family (who reacted far better than I could ever hope). For the readers of this blog, please keep me in your prayers. This is, I believe, the big step of a journey that began in 1998. It’s incredible.

Icon is of St. Justin Martyr from St. Hilaron Monastery