Tabernacle

The Tabernacle, which houses the Eucharist outside of Mass, is illuminated by a skylight and guarded by two angels. The front of the Tabernacle includes symbols of a bread basket and fish, recalling the Eucharistic miracles recorded in the Gospels. Two statues – one of the risen Christ, one of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (Friday after the second Sunday after Pentecost) – alternate on the wall above the Tabernacle based on the liturgical season. The Sanctuary Lamp hangs to the left, indicating and honoring the presence of Christ in the consecrated host.

To the right of the Tabernacle is a statue of the Blessed Mother wearing a crown of twelve stars and holding a scepter in her right hand, both denoting the Queenship of Mary (August 21). She wears a blue mantle, a color associated with icons and statues of Mary as far back as 500 A.D. In her left hand she holds the infant Jesus as Salvator Mundi (Savior of the World), as indicated by his holding of the Globus Cruciger (cross-bearing orb), a Christian symbol of authority since the Middle Ages. His right hand offers the same blessing as that found on the Crucifix behind the Ambo. Votive candles are available to light for personal intentions.