The Tabernacle

Abilene, Texas, USA

The Promise of God's Presence

The celebration of the Eucharist is the central act of Catholic worship. A portion of the unleavened bread consecrated during the Eucharist is traditionally reserved in a special area of the church.

At Holy Family, the tabernacle is found in the Daily Mass Chapel. In full view from the nave of the church, the tabernacle is placed on top of a type of throne as one unified work of art. The first of its kind from the imagination of the sculptor, the bronze tower contains the vault for the reservation of the Blessed Sacrament in the top section. The four sides of the throne depict narrative scenes from scripture, expressing Eucharistic themes of miraculous food and sacrifice.

The tabernacle is one of the four focal points in any church, the others being in the baptistry, the altar, and the ambo. Giving the tabernacle this kind of artistic treatment serves to enhance the focus of attention on the tabernacle. The lighted lamp over the tower is another sign of the true presence of the Lord in the Eucharist.

Holy Family Catholic Church - 5410 Buffalo Gap Road - Abilene, TX 79606

Phone: 325-692-1820 Fax: 325-698-5131

E-Mail: Church Office E-Mail: Webmaster