From Father Joe: Sanctuary Update
Dear Parishioners of Guardian Angels Catholic Church,
I hope this letter finds you all in good health and high spirits. As your pastor, it is my duty and privilege to address matters that concern our spiritual journey and the enhancement of our worship experience. With the future wall being constructed at Guardian Angels, to separate our Gathering Area from our Worship Space, I thought it would be beneficial to have a discussion with the Parish Council about our sanctuary. Today, I would like to share with you the fruitful discussions I had with our esteemed Parish Council regarding a few important matters that will shape the future of our sanctuary and benefit the entire parish.
Firstly, we discussed the spiritual benefit of moving the crucifix from the side wall to the main sanctuary. The crucifix holds deep significance in our faith, reminding us of Christ's sacrifice and His love for humanity. By bringing the crucifix to a more central location, we aim to emphasize its importance and make it a focal point of our worship. Its presence in the main sanctuary will allow us to center our thoughts on Christ's redemptive act and inspire a deeper sense of reverence and devotion among our parishioners.
Secondly, we explored the benefits of moving away from relying solely on the projector screen during our liturgical celebrations. While technology has provided us with convenience and flexibility, it is essential to strike a balance between the digital and traditional elements of our worship. By reintroducing hymnals and worship aids, we can encourage active participation and engagement from all members of our congregation. These tangible resources will enable us to follow along with the prayers and hymns, fostering a deeper connection with the liturgy and allowing us to truly internalize the sacred words we utter.
Lastly, we discussed the importance of adding focus to our sanctuary for the benefit of the people of Guardian Angels. Our place of worship should be a reflection of our faith, a space that draws us closer to God and inspires awe and reverence. To achieve this, I have sought the expertise of several designers and have been collaborating with a contractor to develop a design concept that will enhance our sanctuary's beauty and functionality. I am excited to share this vision with the Parish Council and, in the coming months, with all of you.
Together, we are embarking on a journey to create a sanctuary that invites us to experience the divine in a more profound way. This endeavor is a testament to our shared commitment to our Catholic faith and the desire to provide an uplifting environment for worship and prayer.
I encourage you all to remain patient and open-hearted as we embark on this transformational process. Your feedback and questions are valuable to us, as we strive to create a sacred space that caters to the needs of our entire parish. Please keep the Parish Council, the designers, and the contractor in your prayers as we work diligently to bring our vision to life.
May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all, guiding us on this beautiful journey of faith.
in Christ,
Father Joe Connelly