A while back I posted about the surge of vocations in the Diocese of Madison under the influence of the Extraordinary Ordinary, Most Rev. Robert C. Morlino, the diocesan bishop. It’s a small diocese, but there are more than 30 outstanding men in formation. This fact has made liberals quiver with anxiety.

I received a note from a friend of mine in New York state who is well situated to hear all manner of news.

The vocations office in Albany has gone from zero to 120 inquiries from young men of the area.

My first reaction is to say, with Henry, “Let there be sung Non nobis and Te Deum“.

Next, I say, “Yep. This isn’t rocket science.”

Then, I say, “What do you want to bet that none of these men have subscriptions to the National Schismatic Reporter?”

Finally, I remind the readers what I posted the other day. HERE The new bishop of Albany, Most Rev. Edward Scharfenberger celebrated Holy Mass in the Extraordinary Form in his Cathedral recently. This was the 1st time Mass has been celebrated in Albany’s Cathedral in decades.

Let’s be clear. I am not suggesting that there is an immediate connection between saying a Pontifical Mass and a sudden increase in vocations, though I think that the fact of the Mass will be helpful for prompting vocations in the future. I think that, if the numbers are accurate, men are reacting to a new style, a new vision which the new bishop has brought in. Part of that new style and vision now includes willingness to celebrate Holy Mass also in the Extraordinary Form. He is a both/and bishop.

Fr. Z kudos to Bp. Scharfenberger.