A call to service- washing feet

Bishop Michael Campbell washing feet as an example of service

Tonight twelve members of the parish including some of the confirmandi came up after the homily to have their feet washed by the Bishop.  Following the actions outlined in John's Gospel, he got up from table, removed his outer garments and, taking a towel, wrapped it round his waist; beneath his chasuable the Bishop wears a dalmatic (which is the same as the outer garment of the deacon) and is a sign of service.  To learn more about the Bishop's vestments. 

Empty tabernacle with altar representing Last Supper

left the empty tabernacle and below the altar which has the image of Jesus with his friends celebrating the Last Supper.
After the Mass of the Lord's Supper the Blessed Sacrament was taken in solemn procession and placed in the tabernacle in the Lady Chapel where there followed a period of watching.  The service ended in silence, but unlike Mass there was no formal dismissal, because we return for the Good Friday Service which will allow us to continue our journey of the Triduum (3 services in one) which concludes on Saturday night.  Please note Easter Vigil will start at 8.00pm this year. 

Bishop Michael Campbell carrying the Blessed Sacrament

The Bishop carefully carrying the Blessed Sacrament.  He is wearing a humeral veil which is used in solemn processions where the Blessed Sacrament is being carried.  Above the canopy carried by the altar server also helps to signal the sign of respect and shows where the Blessed Sacrament is in the procession.  Two other altar servers alternated incensing the journey taken.  This year some members of the congregation followed the procession and were able to observe the Blessed Sacrament being placed into the tabernacle at the start of the time of watching.

Keeping watch ...

Jesus asked his disciples to keep watch with him as he prayed to His Father in the garden of Gethsemane, after the Mass of the Lord's Supper we are invited to keep watch with Christ.  Note the red sanctuary lamp signifying the presence of the Blessed Sacrament.