I can see the beginnings of an important separation that is taking place among my peers from the seminary, that being what some would call the
thinning of the herd or the separating of the wheat from the chaff. In simpler terms, I now see a dividing line between the geniuses that the Archdiocese has sent away for studies, and us poor, lowly parish priest types who tend to the flock and make sure the bills get paid and the lights stay on. I am thrilled to be in the latter category, but every so often I have an encounter with the smarter priests of the Archdiocese, and it’s a reminder of what a dim bulb I am at times.
I recently had one of those encounters when I was working with the parish council and staff to determine what the best course of action would be if we wanted to revamp the sanctuary at St. James. I submitted two proposals to the
Archdiocesan architectural review board, and then let them do a write up on which one was preferred. Of the two, I strongly preferred the second option, as did the board. However, I liked it for a few simple reasons: I think it fills the space in the sanctuary nicely, and it ultimately does the important work of focusing us on the most important thing, that is, Jesus, both on the altar and in the tabernacle. Their recommendation came back with a highly theological and very technical description of the proposed renovation. We will be posting that recommendation, along with drawings, in the Church at St. James in the coming weeks, but for whatever my opinion is worth, here are the important things to keep in mind:
-The funds for this are in the capital budget and are reserved solely for capital repairs andimprovements.
-This expenditure was approved by the parish council, finance council, and the Archdiocesan finance office, along with the Archbishophimself.
-The goal is not change for its own sake, but rather is a way for us to put Jesus at the center of our Church, so that we can continue the most important work of placing Him at the center of our lives.
These renovations will begin in the middle of July, but rest assured that in the few weeks it takes to get everything assembled and installed, Masses will continue as usual, largely uninterrupted. I look forward to hearing your thoughts and input, and I ask that you join me in praying that these changes may increase our reverence, devotion, and love for Jesus in the Most Blessed Sacrament and help to make us here at St. James, and in the region as a whole, more fervent followers of Jesus Christ in His Church.