Hartford Archbishop to Consecrate New St. Catherine of Siena Altar—a Must See, Once-in-A-Lifetime Catholic Ritual

On Sunday, December 4 at the 11 a.m. Mass our parish will experience the Roman Bishop’s Ceremonial Ritual of the consecration of our new altar, which was designed and built specifically for St. Catherine of Siena Parish. And you are invited to watch this unusual and most beautiful ritual happen.

From the entrance rite to the Litany of the Saints, from incense and sacred oils—fire and the transfer and installation of the Relics of Saint Catherine of Siena into our new altar—prayers and music will accompany this once-in-a-lifetime ceremony. The ancient history of our faith comes to life here in West Simsbury. I hope you will want to attend and take pride in this parish event. A light luncheon for all will immediately follow in Russell Hall.

Archbishop Leonard Blair has accepted our invitation to bless and consecrate our new altar, which is the center and symbol of our Eucharistic meal we celebrate at every Mass. Many people believe that the only rival to the British monarchy, in terms of ritual and beauty, is the Roman Catholic Church. From the time of Christ and His early Church, symbolism has lead faith-filled followers into a deeper spiritual reality that is God. The Church knows that rituals and ceremonies while not more important that God—certainly—are the things that enable our senses: uniting us more closely and powerfully to

understanding God and His love for us—and His desire of our love for Him. Much planning and effort will go into this Mass and I hope you will share in the faith that leads us all to the altar of Eternal Salvation. Come and experience the blessing of our new Eucharistic table on Sunday, December 4 at 11 a.m.—mark your calendars and mark your souls!