Here’s another one of those beautiful, visual, poetic moments that our Lord works with natural elements to create a supernatural sign of His Presence.
It was the summer of 2018 and the Monterey Diocese was in a state of limbo and mourning. We were mourning the death of our beloved Bishop, Richard Garcia (our current Bishop is Danny Garcia).
Father Peter Crivello who had been pastor of San Carlos for 12 years and native of Monterey, California was celebrating his 25th ordination. Fr. Peter in his humility and sensitivity questioned whether having a big mass and celebration at San Carlos was in order given the heaviness people were feeling. That’s when deeper loving wisdom prevailed: this was precisely the time to allow all the people Fr. Peter has ministered and served over the years join him in giving thanksgiving and praise to God for his vocation.
The cathedral is not big and it was a standing room only kind of mass. I had a place near the door of the left transept. It was a normal day and there wasn’t at the time any excess of light streaming in from the few windows near the altar. When Fr. Peter began the consecration the light began to change. I wasn’t sure if I could get my camera out fast enough but as soon as he consecrated the precious blood this bright orb of light appeared in the chalice. This was not noticed by many if any people. It was only in sharing the picture with others we all marveled at this beautiful sign of Jesus’ Presence in His Blood on the altar.
Does the picture of this chalice and the orb of light elicit any stories for you? Do you have a consecration picture and story? Please consider sharing with us!