Thursday 21 July 2011

SANCTUARY ARCH REPAIRED AND RESTORED


Some months ago, at the Church of Our Lady and St Joseph, a crack appeared in the rendering above the sanctuary arch. Last week all the rendering was removed to expose the brickwork, and the arch was repaired and restored. Broken mortar was removed, rods were inserted to tie the bricks together, and the brickwork bonded with resin for additional strength. It is hoped that the work will be completed this week, so that the scaffolding can be taken down by the weekend.


As a result of the liturgical changes implemented at Vatican II the celebrant now faces the congregation during Mass. An effect of this is that sometimes whilst attending to what is happening on the altar we can become less mindful of the Presence of Our Lord, here with us in the Holy Eucharist. Once the work on the arch has been completed this crucifix will be suspended above the altar. It will help us to be more aware of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, made present to us in the Holy Sacrament of the Mass.


To stop the scraping sounds and damage to the floor as pews are moved, thin pads have been attached underneath the feet of the pews and kneelers.  

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