Here are some images of the new sanctuary within Father Gabriel Richard High School's chapel which was blessed by Bishop Earl Boyea of Lansing on Saturday, August 17.
“As Catholics we believe that the Eucharist is the source and summit of our faith because Jesus Christ is really present, body and blood, soul and divinity – knowing that, we thought it was time to give Christ Our King a more fitting throne here at FGR,” explained school president, Joe Jordano, in remarks delivered after Holy Mass.
“We felt it time to build a sanctuary that better reflects what we believe . . . that will be awe-inspiring to all who worship and pray in this space.”
The new sanctuary is the result of two years of prayer, planning and fundraising. The project has been overseen by architect Ben Luther of the Michigan based LutherGroup Architecture.
Bishop Earl Boyea was the principal celebrant and homilist at Saturday’s Mass. Concelebrating with him were Father John Vinton, school chaplain; Father Ed Fride, pastor of Christ the nearby King parish; and Father Kyle Shinseki SJ, pastor of Saint Mary Student Parish in Ann Arbor.
Father Gabriel Richard encourages all students to encounter the person of Jesus Christ and to enter into an ever-deepening relationship with Him and His Holy Church. This encouragement includes two all-school Masses each week as well as Holy Mass prior to school three days per week. Amongst other things, the school chapel also plays host to weekly Eucharistic Adoration.
Notably, Father Gabriel Richard encourages staff and student to embrace a “1% Challenge” whereby each member of the school community spends at least 1% of each day – 14 minutes and 24 seconds – in prayer before Our Lord present in the tabernacle.
