We've made some changes to the sanctuary lately, some permanent and some seasonal, that many parishioners have been curious about. Below you will find answers to the questions I've been approached with, but if you have any other questions please feel free to email me at audreyg@stjoegold.org.
Moving the Tabernacle
As "the source and summit of the Christian life," we want the Eucharist to be at the center of our lives and worship (CCC 1324). To better reflect this desire, we moved the Tabernacle to the center of the sanctuary under the crucifix. With the unique architecture of our church this move also increase the visibility of the Tabernacle for parishioners on all sides.
Moving the Altar Severs
Due to the narrow areas of the sanctuary space, we have started seating the Altar Servers in the pews. This also allowed us to move our credence table into the sanctuary for easier and safer movement during the Preparation of the Altar. It reduces the need to carry items up and down the steps surround the sanctuary and allows Teri to liturgically assist the Altar Servers when needed.
The Red and White Fabric
“But when they came to Jesus and saw that he was already dead, they did not break his legs, but one soldier thrust his lance into his side, and immediately blood and water flowed out.”
The striking red and white cloth streaming from behind our crucifix are representative of the blood and water flowing from the heart of Jesus in the image of the Divine Mercy. Divine Mercy Sunday is celebrated the first Sunday after Easter.
In addition, white is the liturgical color of the Easter season symbolizing the Resurrection, joy, and celebration. Red is representative of the Holy Spirit and a great visual reminder of the presence of the Holy Spirit during the Sacrament of Confirmation (which took place on April 20th) and Pentecost (May 20th).
The red and white is also symbolic of the mixing of water and wine following the Offertory, which in turn symbolizes the divine and human natures of Christ. As well as, St. Cyprian tells us, "The water is understood as the people while the wine shows forth the blood of Christ. When the water is mingled in the cup with wine, the people are united with Christ."
The Tall Candleholders
Purchased by Father Matt Book for use during Candlelight Masses, the seven candleholders were brought out for celebrating Mass when our Confirmandi received the Sacrament of Confirmation. Seven is considered a perfect number and symbolizes many thing including the days of creation, gifts of the Holy Spirit, and lamps burning at the Temple.