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Schedule of
Masses
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Other Liturgies
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Eucharistic Reserve Chapel
The tabernacle, where hosts consecrated
from a previous Mass are kept, resides in its own chapel situated between the
church proper and the daily chapel. Two sets of large wooden doors enable
whichever space is currently being utilized to see into the Blessed Sacrament
chapel.
Tabernacles were first intended for the reservation of the Eucharist in a worthy
place so that it could be brought to the sick and those absent from Mass. As
faith in the real presence of Christ in his Eucharist deepened, believers became
conscious of the meaning of silent adoration of the Lord in the Blessed
Sacrament.
Therefore, nothing adorns the circular space of this chapel—so that the
believer’s attention is drawn to the tabernacle and the most precious Blessed
Sacrament which is contained therein. The tabernacle sits upon a pedestal whose
design matches that of the altar. Kneelers are situated so that the faithful can
visit the Blessed Sacrament and adore the holy presence of Christ.
A skylight in the ceiling baths the tabernacle in natural light. The arched roof
of the tabernacle echoes the church arch and on a clear day the golden, polished
metal of this arch sparkles brilliantly with sunlight.
Jesus said to his disciples, “I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you.
In a little while the world will no longer see me, but you will see me, because
I live and you will live. On that day you will realize that I am in my Father
and you are in me and I in you” (John 14:18-20).
Also see "The Church of St. Julie Billiart"
for a virtual tour which includes this chapel.
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