It’s Really Happening! The Transfer of Our Tabernacle to the Sanctuary

September 14^th and 15^th

We are excited to share that the presence of our Lord Jesus will now sit front and center behind our altar beginning next weekend! The timing of this move fits nicely with the Gospel of John, which we have been listening to these past few weeks as we heard his “Bread of Life” discourses – where Jesus, for the first time, makes direct reference to the Eucharist and Himself as the Bread of Life and the source of all spiritual nourishment that comes from God.  

We are so grateful to those involved in making this meaningful expression of our Catholic faith and devotion to the Eucharist possible – parishioners involved in open meetings to gain their insight and opinions, talented craftsmen creating our new sanctuary lamp, those involved in the planning, design and approval of this demonstration of our faith and those who physically made the transfer possible by securing the tabernacle into its new home. 

One aspect that clearly defines our St. John Fisher faith community is the fellowship and community experienced both prior to and after Masses, where parishioners catch up and spend time talking together. Recognizing that Jesus has always been present in our active, warm and enriching faith community in the side tabernacle, now that His presence will grace us from our altar sanctuary, please be respectful of our worship space while continuing to experience the warm, welcoming and nourishing environment that continues to define who we are as a faith community. Please be mindful of the following: 

• We now have a true reason to genuflect as we enter and exit our pews for Mass;
• Quiet, warm and embracing conversation after Mass continues to be fully acceptable;
• Conversations after Mass that are quite lively with little ones who may be running about, are better suited for our hall or outside the church;
• Change is always a tad bumpy so let’s be patient with each other as we settle into the much-awaited enhancement to our worship space and the presence of Jesus in our new front sanctuary. 

As for our side chapel area, we are working to make it a multi-functional space – as a Marian Chapel for quiet prayer and reflection, a space to hold smaller meetings and gatherings and other possible uses as will be defined. Stay tuned … 

Be Nourished, Be Respectful, Be Reflective and Be Present with the Lord Jesus

“This is My Body which is given for you. Do this is in remembrance of Me.”