Course 4, Chapter 53: Christianity visible. — Dedication

1. What is the feast of the Dedication?

It is a feast by which we celebrate the consecration of our churches. Every thing used in the service of religion should be holy; therefore the church consecrates her temples. This exterior consecration is but an image of our consecration to God, for we should be more holy than temples and altars.

2. To whom belongs the right to consecrate churches?

To bishops only. It is preceded by a fast and long prayers, and accompanied with many and beautiful ceremonies, which teach us how holy is God, and with what respect we should enter the church.

3. What sentiments should we have in entering the church?

Sentiments of joy and respect; for the church is the house of God our Father. All that we behold there speaks to our heart and inclines us to virtue; the baptismal font, the pulpit, the tribunal of penance, the pictures of the saints, the altar, the cross, the communion rail.

4. WThy is a church dedicated under the invocation of a saint?

In order to give the faithful a model and a protector. They should celebrate the feast of their patron with great piety and a sincere desire to walk in his footsteps.