On this day, five years ago I exchanged my Anglican clerical collar for a layman’s necktie. It was the best decision that I have ever made. His Excellency Bishop Kevin Vann of Fort Worth received my wife, myself, and our children into the one, holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church. On this day in 2006, we entered into full communion with the earthly Vicar of Christ – His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI.

It’s been a blessing to be a Catholic. My only regret is that we did not become Catholic earlier. 

To all Protestant readers and to all Protestant clergyman who are “counting the cost” and agonizing over becoming Catholic, I say go for it! It’s tough, but well worth it. In the grand scheme of things, it’s the right decision and it will speed you along to a greater love and devotion for Christ. In short, it is the God appointed ark that will deliver you from the flood of sin and destruction.

The Holy Eucharist is the pearl of great price. It’s worth selling and sacrificing everything for it. Confession is the most consoling gift of Christ this side of death. What I’ve learned about my Blessed Mother Mary has softened my heart, and led me to revere the sorrowful passion of our Crucified Lord. The gift of Confirmation and the spiritual gifts it provides bring me strength when ridiculed and mocked. The teachings of the Popes, and the examples of the great saints. The church fasts and the ascetical tradition. The just condemnation of contraception and all the beautiful children that have flowered from the holy sacrament of matrimony. The good and holy priests. The example of pious friends. This is what it means to be Catholic. I would not exchange it for the entire world. It is my life. It is my vocation. It is my marriage. It is my family. I pray that it shall likewise be my death.

Special gratitude is due to my wife Joy for joining me on this miraculous journey and to William Cardinal Baum, Bishop Vann of Forth Worth, Bishop Conley of Denver, Father Jim Hart, Mark Adams, Mark Muholland, and my godfather Robert Barham.

God be with you. The Marshalls will be feasting tonight!