St Patrick's Parish, Southport: Parish History

The Tabernacle

Slightly to the left of the sanctuary is the Blessed Sacrament shrine - a kind of 'Holy of Holies'. After Mass has been celebrated the consecrated elements which remain are reserved in the tabernacle for distribution to the sick and for Holy Communion on occasions when perhaps Mass cannot be celebrated. Catholics refer to this as the 'Blessed Sacrament' containing the Real Presence of Jesus Christ, and so treat it with great reverence. A light (the Sanctuary Lamp) is kept burning continually to mark this Sacramental Presence of Jesus amongst us.

The brass tabernacle containing the Blessed Sacrament is the original tabernacle (now completely reburnished) from the former church. Either side of the shrine timber and glass screens portray etched angels standing on guard, holding basins of flame, and above them sunburst roundels containing the words of the Angelic Hosts of Heaven - 'Holy, Holy Holy .... ' This is a special place - this is where God dwells among his people.

To add richness the carpet was extended up the walls from the floor of the shrine.

The grapes and vine motif reminds us of the words of Jesus - " I am the Vine, You are the Branches" - and it calls us to remain in his love so that we might be nourished with his life.