Back in 1982, this Tabernacle was dedicated at St. Bart’s. It was said:
“This morning we are blessing a new Tabernacle, or as it is usually called when put on a wall, an Aumbry. This Aumbry was designed by Mr. Horace Judson and has been given as a thank offering by him and his wife, Blanche. Most of you know that the Judson Studios designed our very beautiful windows. The Tabernacle door is a mosaic that was made in Italy. On it are two peacocks, a symbol of the Resurrection and eternal life. There is also an Alpha and an Omega, the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet, symbolizing Christ as the beginning and end of all things. In the center, Chi-Rho, are the first two letters of Christ in Greek.”
This Tabernacle was installed on the wall 42 years ago, so since then we have used it as an Aumbry to hold consecrated sacrament for home visits and other purposes. The light over the Aumbry burns constantly to remind us of Christ’s presence there. But now, a generous parishioner has commissioned a stand inspired by the Trinity. Since the Aumbry is no longer on the wall, it is truly a Tabernacle. This change extends its purpose and meaning to us. It still holds the reserved sacrament and the light still burns, but it becomes a place of adoration and worship. Just like in the Book of Exodus, it becomes a place to be in the presence of God.
The Tabernacle will remain in its current location in the sanctuary, but the spot is not quite ready for personal prayer. In the coming year, we will continue to enhance this area of our sanctuary to make it inviting for you to come and pray. While the Tabernacle was blessed in 1982, we will dedicate this beautiful stand, 42 years later, on September 28. Thanks be to God!
Mother Nina+
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