This morning we're having a rather formal Mass here at Kenrick. That requires all of us to be in "formal dress." That means black everything plus a cassock and surplice (cassock & surplice not pictured here). Consequently, this morning I put on a clerical shirt and collar for the first time. So, how do I look? Do I look like I could one day be Father Jason?

Speaking of Mass, time to go.

Now that I'm settled into my room a bit more, I thought I'd share this snapshot of my dorm room at the seminary. Oh, look at the time... I've got to run to Mid-Day Prayer in the chapel.

And so here I am, at Kenrick Theological Seminary at last (or already). I drove down I-29 all the way to Kansas City then headed East to St. Louis, where the seminary is located. I arrived on Monday, the 21st. The drive was long and full of crazy Interstate drivers. But I'm here now, settled into my little dorm room.

Each day begins with time for personal prayer in the main St. Joseph chapel at about 6:15 a.m. At 7:00, everyone gathers for Morning Prayer, followed by Mass. Then we have time for breakfast before the other activities of the day begin. The last several days have been spent in orientation. The real work begins next week, when I begin taking my courses at St. Louis University.

The week has been a big change from my previous routine. Aside from lacking a little sleep (people start stirring around here shortly after five a.m.) I'm adjusting well.

Yesterday we toured a few places in St. Louis, including the famous "Arch," pictured above.

I recently returned from a ten-day pilgrimage to Antigua, Guatemala. A group of about 30 of us flew down to help out the God's Child Project and to see the country. It was an amazing experience. I've posted my travel log and many of my photos online. Just click here or click the photo above to check it out.