Consecration of an Altar

Sacra recently assisted the Diocese of Winona-Rochester in preparing relics for the dedication of the chapel in their stunning new chancery building. Preparation for the dedication, or re-dedication, of an altar or church is one of the ways that Sacra can assist dioceses and religious congregations.

Bishop Robert Barron deposits the relics into the new altar.  Photo: Word on Fire.

The relics were selected to reflect the universal character of the Church, and the local contribution and history of the diocese. The relics were cleaned, documented, rehoused, and carefully prepared for the dedication of the altar:

The relics were sealed with information about their history and provenance (research by Sacra), and the details of the dedication carried out by Bishop Robert Barron.

Bishop Robert Barron explains the rose window in the new chapel.  Photo: Word on Fire.

The Diocese of Winona-Rochester is grateful to Mr Pilcher for his assistance in locating the relics we desired, including a Blessed with local ties, for the altar in our chapel in our new Chancery building. His ability to obtain the relics for us with haste due to the scheduled dedication of the chapel, the evident care with which the relics were prepared, and the beautiful documentation which accompanied them were great blessings adding to the solemnity of our liturgical celebration. In addition, we have greatly appreciated Mr Pilcher’s assistance in authenticating and restoring the collection of relics housed in our Diocesan archives. Mr Pilcher’s love for the Church and affection for the saints is evident, and his professional work reflects this love. It has been a pleasure to work with Mr Pilcher and we look forward to working with Sacra in the future.’

 —Bishop Robert Barron, Bishop of the Diocese of Winona-Rochester