A few weeks ago Lancaster County Timber Frames completed the raising of the frame for the St. Thomas the Apostle Russian Orthodox church in Waldorf, Maryland. Since this was a church, Josh Coleman – the frame designer – felt it prudent to ask permission of Fr. Joseph for us to attach a pine bough to the top of the timber frame. Fr. Joseph was excited to learn of this tradition and wanted to participate in the ceremony. He changed into his vestments and as parishioners looked on he gathered the participants into a circle and blessed the pine bough which was then attached to the ridge.