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“It’s been a great journey. It’s been something different, you know,” said Father Scott Caton.

Caton’s road to priesthood was not just rare, but like none other in Rochester.

“I’ve been given the privilege to be able to do this,” said Caton.

Caton is the first married man to be ordained as a Catholic priest in Rochester. With is wife and children by his side, it was a monumental moment for those who watched.

“Some people have asked me, the priest, what do they think about it,” said Caton. “Every single one has been affirming and kind and encouraging to me.”

Caton is a former protestant minister which qualified him for an exception to catholic tradition, through a provision made by the pope for protestant ministers.

“It’s going to be an education experience for me and my wife and four children for the parish and parishes for which I might be connected,” said Caton.

A very small group of protestant protestors stood outside Sacred Heart Cathedral before the ceremony started. Marilou Augilar also stood outside, but says she came out for a different cause.

“We support Scott and his calling, but we also feel that women are waiting to become priests and they need to be recognized,” said Aguilar.

Aguilar says Caton’s ordination may not help her cause, but it does bring attention to another new tradition. Still, Bishop Matthew Clark insists it won’t become a regular thing.

“If your question is asking, if we are going to have two or three or four of these next year, I don’t think so,” said Clark.

Clark says Caton’s case is extraordinary, but most importantly it’s about responding to God’s call whenever it comes to you.

“I think it’s going to help people reflect on priesthood, on service, on married life, and one’s response to God’s call,” said Clark.

Diocese of Rochester