The chapel at Catholic Charities, Diocese of Allentown recently got a spiritual refresh. On June 18, members of both the community and employees of Catholic Charities gathered for Mass with Bishop Alfred Schlert as he dedicated a new Altar.
The new Altar was handcrafted by Justin Kaniper, who is an amateur woodworker and volunteer at Catholic Charities. Kaniper has previously donated other pieces to Catholic Charities. Family members and friends joined him for the dedication of the Altar, witnessing the blessing of a piece that will now serve as the center of the sacrifice of the Mass for years to come.
Bishop Schlert thanked Kaniper for the care and craftsmanship that went into the project.
“Justin, you have really poured your heart and soul into this,” said Bishop Schlert during the Mass. “What you made with your hands, God will bless and will make it a privileged place where Jesus Himself will rest on this Altar.”
The Mass, which was standing room only, was assisted by the Knights of Columbus. Kaniper’s family participated as the lectors of the liturgy.
During his homily, Bishop Schlert talked about the importance of an Altar in a Mass and how it is often just taken for granted.
“The Altar is a privileged place,” said Bishop Schlert, reminding those present that the sacrifice of the Mass is not merely a re-enactment of Christ's sacrifice but a participation in what He offered on the Cross.
After the homily, Bishop Schlert blessed and dedicated the new Altar. The dedication marked the Altar's official purpose as a home for the sacred Sacrifice of the Mass.
As part of the rite, the blessing was offered and the Altar was prepared for the celebration of the Holy Eucharist during Mass and for future celebrations. Once vested and prepared, it became the focal point of the chapel where future Masses would be celebrated for staff, clients, and visitors.
The chapel serves as a spiritual home in Catholic Charities, providing a place for prayer, reflection, and the celebration of the Sacraments.
For Bishop Schlert, the dedication of the Altar was a reminder that the charitable work carried out by the agency is rooted in the Church's mission and nourished by the Holy Eucharist. “We do a lot of good things through Catholic Charities, but all of it would be devoid of meaning if we didn’t gather around the Altar to celebrate the Holy Mass and the Sacrifice of Christ on the Cross,” said Bishop Schlert.
Catholic Charities, Diocese of Allentown, provides a wide range of services to individuals and families throughout the region. Serving five counties and guided by a mission of compassion and respect, the agency offers support, advocacy, and professional care to those in need while working to strengthen both families and local communities, regardless of religious affiliation.
Photos by Vargas Photography.
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