By Kevin Delaney
The Cathedral was filled
filled with reverence and hope
as we waited
with a sense of
eager expectation
The formal procession entered
hundreds of priests
dozens of deacons and seminarians
a few bishops
the four candidates
including our Andrew
The thunderous organ
celebrated
welcomed
gave tribute
We came for Andrew Choi
for his ordination
Our prayers, our hopes
centred on him
on this day
on his day
on his future
He always presented
as we anticipated
standing, kneeling, prostrating
a devout portrait
of poise
of sincerity
of prayerfulness
Archbishop Peter’s message
Go out to a life of giving
to be with others
to the point of weariness
to be fruitful
to the point of joyfulness
to be a lasting gift
to the point of loving
Be as Christ
serving not served
As the hundreds of hierarchy
lay hands on Andrew’s head
and later shared
their fraternal kiss
we wished to impart
our blessings
our approval
our rejoicing
for him
with him
Veni Creator Spiritus
Come Creator Spirit
fill his heart
with heavenly grace
As he processed out
we could see
on his face
that smile we know
beginning to emerge
beginning to play
that sparkle
beginning in his eyes
Andrew
no longer serious
but looking
to share his joy
We all rejoice with him
wishing him
a joy-filled, loving and tiring
but satisfying ministry
May God's blessings
remain with him
always