BECOMING "IDENTE-FIED"

So, my social media followers know that about a week ago I was finally fully received into my novitiate as an external member of the Idente Missionaries.  I posted a video taken by my sister during the formal part in a mass celebrated in the chapel at the residence in Queens, NY but then came to realize just how sacred and special that moment was and how it should not be something shared in such a way through social media but instead really through the testimony of my life. I have lived a lot of my life in the public, and in many ways what is important is not the images to prove what I am a part of or living, but instead my good works and daily encountering of people.

I posted it (and I post this) not for a "Hey look at me!" sort of thing, but instead to allow my life to be a light on a lamp stand shining before others instead of under a bushel basket (if you know what I mean.)  And really it was to ask your prayers. . . Honestly I'm scared. . .  Honestly its weird for me.  Obedience is something I never really had to thing about much in my life. I have always had a leadership role and have not had to follow a human authority much. From being the product of a divorced home where you become the "man of the house" at an early age and being the older brother/oldest grandchild there has been a lot of pressure in the early years. Not to mention becoming a young father at 18 and all of the organizations and groups I have been a part of that have relied upon me very early to lead.  Its been a gift because on one hand there is a level of Freedom and an opportunity to rise up with greater strength.  But on the other hand, there is sooo much pressure always being the one people look to for inspiration and guidance.

The interesting thing about being in this particular situation is that I am a lay member of the institute. This means I with a great love follow the guidelines of the Idente's, but at the same time I am not in common life and live much of my life working to bring this charism into the public world which contains much that is very contrary to this call of holiness I am humbly responding to.

So I have entered . . . And if you know anything about my formation I owe it to Fernando Rielo and the Idente Institute for the peace that I have found that transcends my emotions, and circumstances.  I have been formed by the spirit of a man who truly lived a mystical reality, and I have known since day one to be a member was a part of my vocation.  I couldn't understand how, and to be honest I am still figuring it out, but I ask you all publicly to pray for me because I need you. . .  There is no way I can do this without you.

Please . . . I love you.  I will never be The Symbol unless you are yourself.

- The Symbol
- All is Love