Excelsior! A small victory in the battle against modernity in my parish.

Our new parish priest is already returning dividends. The parish Pastoral Council recently discussed an article titled "Where Should We Put The Tabernacle?" by Msgr. Peter J. Elliott. (My guess is this was instigated by Father. The Council has never done anything like this in the fifteen years I have lived in this parish.) The article quotes Canon Law, which says the tabernacle should be in "a distingushed place in a church or oratory, a place which is conspicuous, suitably adorned, and conducive to prayer." ( Canon 938, #2 )

Monsignor Elliott's article concludes: "To avoid the arid effects of liturgical rationalism (Glory be to God! May He bless and protect you always, Monsignor. - F.G.) and to promote prayer and reverence, let the Eucharist be restored to the truly preeminent position in every church."

The Council took a preliminary vote and unanimously decided to move the tabernacle from the side chapel to its rightful place behind the altar and below the crucifix. A formal vote will be held soon to make this official, and I hope it happens soon. (Prior to Christmas would be nice.) Of course, Father could make this change on his own (I wish he would! That's one reason why this is only a small victory.) but he probably did not want to appear a bully so he made a token concession to the fetish of democracy.

Our church building is only eight years old, so the "Eucharistic Chapel" was built in. (Innovation sucks, kiddies.) This also means the chances of installing an altar rail are slim. On the other hand, turning the existing altar around and putting it under the new tabernacle location is definitely doable. Stay tuned, kiddies, and say a prayer for us.

BTW, thank you Lord for this wonderful priest who is truly an instument of Thy will.