On this day in 1921, the church of Our Lady& St Michael was solemnly consecrated in a splendid, elaborate and very long ceremony! My guess is that it would have lasted 3 to 4 hours. I believe in the rite before Vatican II, two pounds of incense was recommended for the service – marvellous. The feast is a solemnity and takes precedence over todays feast of the Triumph of the Cross.
In 1921, Fr Clement Standish purchased a number of consecration crosses, which are placed different parts of the church. They cost £3 in 1921, more than a weeks wages for many workers at the time. These candles are only it on the anniversary of the Consecration.
I chose this photo as it shows the lit candles, but also the choir stalls. These were commissioned for the consecration. They were made by Robert Thompson of Kilburn nr Ampleforth, later known as the mouse man. We know from the archives, that he had more than a hand in making them. The shields are of the medieval Benedictine Abbeys and Cathedrals in England.
Today’s feast also reminds us that the Church was built for worship, and this continues to carry on today and we hope for many years to come. We remember the countless men and women who came to this church for Mass, the sacraments or just to pray. We also remember all those who looked after the church especially those who kept it clean. May they all rest in peace and receive the reward of their labours.
Fr Paul Harrison' Blog. 