Bishop Carol's Visit/Consecration of the New Altar

On Sunday, October 21, Bishop Carol Gallagher made her annual official visit to St. Stephen’s. It was, as usual, a busy Sunday. We began the day by celebrating the baptism of Orianna Marie Rerick. We also welcomed two new members to St. Stephen’s, Kriss and Kip Vossler. Bishop Carol also blessed and consecrated our brand new altar. The ceremony, which included anointing the new altar with chrism, was solemn yet moving. As the Te Deum was sung and bells rung, the altar was vested with the fair linen and candles, and prepared for Holy Communion. The altar was built under by Mark McAlister of  Hurley’s Religious Goods in Fargo with suggestions and designs given by Fr. Jamie. The altar features a traditional design of the Agnus Dei (the Lamb of God) at the center, flanked by the Greeks symbols of Alpha and Omega.

Bishop Carol blesses the new altar.

Bishop Carol pours chrism on the altar at its consecration.

Alice Hauan the St. Stephen’s altar Guild assists in the vesting of the altar after its consecration.

The fair linen is placed on the altar after its consecration

“The gifts of God for the People of God.”

A matching plaque honoring Mary, the Mother of Jesus, as the Living Altar of the Living Bread, was also donated by Hurley’s and now graces the apse.

The designs of the altar and plaque blend perfectly with the newly installed stained glass windows that now grace the nave, especially the Bread of Life window beside which it now hangs.

A potluck followed.

Bishop Carol was once again pleased with the banner in her honor  which adorned the front of the church.

Orianna Marie Rerick was washed in the waters of new life on October 21

 Father Jamie and Bishop Carol welcome new St. Stephen’s members Kriss and Kip Vossler.                                                  

The cake says it all! Thank you, Bishop Carol.