Two Brides and a Groom. Wait—not “a” Groom, but “the” Groom!

Just yesterday, two of my friends, Becca and Emily, were consecrated as Consecrated Virgins Living in the World at Holy Name Cathedral in Chicago. They made their commitment before Cardinal Blase Cupich, Archbishop of Chicago, in the presence of hundreds of friends and family members.

We witnessed the first public consecration of laywomen in the Archdiocese of Chicago in over a decade!

Two years ago, Becca approached me and asked if I would take photos at her “potential” consecration. She was still discerning at the time. Of course, I said yes!

I have known Becca for a few years. She does amazing work in the Catholic community around Chicago, and I doubt there is anyone in the city who doesn’t know her! You could certainly see that in the attendance at Holy Name Cathedral. It was packed! I had never seen so many familiar faces gathered at a single event.

The pressure was on. I’ll be honest with you: every time I go out for a shoot, I want to take the best photos possible. I put more pressure on myself than anyone else does, but I think that helps me stay focused and grounded.

On a day this special, I knew I had to do everything possible to capture it. Did I manage to get the shots?

Meeting Emily was a little different story, but God always has His own ways.

I had met her only a couple of months earlier. I went to St. Thomas the Apostle Church in Hyde Park—a place I rarely visit; it was only my second time there. There was a small reception after Mass, so I joined with my friend, and we sat at a table with one of her friends.

It was Emily!

After a few minutes of conversation, she asked me:

“Are you taking photos at my consecration?”

I was puzzled! But then my brain started connecting the dots.

“Are you getting consecrated with Becca?”

“Yes!”

Now it all made sense. I couldn’t wait for the big day.

October 31.

All Hallows’ Eve.

The Cathedral Church of Chicago.

Two brides.

And the Groom.

Married forever and ever!