A Pilgrim's Journey: Anniversary of the Dedication

Monday, August 14, 2017

Anniversary of the Dedication

The Dedication of the Church and the Consecration of the High Altar took place on the Solemnity of the Assumption in 1987. Here are some pictures of that wonderful occasion, and it's an opportunity for those who were not here in those early years to see how the interior of the church looked at the time.

Gathered before the High Altar, to prepare for its Consecration.

Praying the Litany, before the Consecration of the Altar.

The Prayer to Consecrate the Altar.

Placing the Relics of St. Thomas Becket, and Anointing the Altar stone.

The Archbishop giving his personal Rosary to be placed in the hands of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Placing the linens on the newly-consecrated Altar.

Opening the Triptych.

Placing the crucifix and candles at the High Altar.

Celebrating the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass on the newly-consecrated Altar.

One of the Consecration Crosses

Meeting Pope St. John Paul II

In 1983 I was a newly-ordained priest. In November of that year, it was my privilege to be in Rome to take part in developing The Book of Divine Worship. During that time an invitation was extended to celebrate Mass with His Holiness, Pope John Paul II, in his private chapel. After we had said Mass, and in those few moments I had with the Holy Father, he told me that he remembered considering the request for my ordination, and he described how he came to an affirmative decision. For me, our brief conversation was an experience which will be treasured forever. At the conclusion of our time together, I asked him if I could take his blessing back to the people of my parish. His very simple words remain precious to me: "With all my heart, I bless you and your people." He then embraced me, and I knew that I was forever "home in my Father's house."