Today we celebrated the anniversary of the dedication of the church at Christ the King Priory. We were very blessed to have the President of our congregation with us – Abbot President Jeremias Schroeder. The Abbot President presided at Mass and was joined by Fr. Thomas Leitner, Fr. Tom Hillenbrand and our Prior, Fr. Joel Macul. Br. Tobias Dammert was the Cantor and Br. Andrew Fuller prepared the altar and assisted as server and lector.
The beautiful concrete and wood structure hasn’t changed since its dedication on September 16, 1979. On that day over 250 people crowded into the church to witness the Dedication Mass by Archbishop Daniel Sheehan. Our own Fr. Volker Futter concelebrated the Mass that day along with Fr. Herman. Br. Tobias provided the music liturgy – much as he still does today.
In his homily this morning Abbot President Jeremias reminded us of the wonder and beauty of the building we come together in. “I don’t live here – but sometimes the eyes of a casual visitor can see things that those do not see who are here every day.” He told us that its strong, yet simple design of concrete and wood “speaks plainly”. No “false plastering or pretending”.
“This square church, sitting here on a hill, although without real windows, embodies the awareness that the cross of Christ is planted here – but that this cross points into all directions….that it embraces the universe.”
Beautiful words and a beautiful celebration on this glorious September Nebraska morning.
