Sanctuary renovation highlights altar

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Nov 7, 2024
Deacon Joe Gassman, left, helps Bishop John Noonan during the dedication of the altar at St. Jospeh Parish in Palm Bay, Nov. 2, 2024. Bishop blesses each of the four corners with holy Chrism Oil then rubs the oil into the altar. (GLENDA MEEKINS)

PALM BAY | Walking into St. Joseph Parish in Palm Bay, one feels peace and calm. The newly renovated altar space is painted light blue with shimmers of gold behind the Crucifix pulling focus upward, toward the Lord.

Renovations of St. Joseph Parish in Palm Bay were blessed by Bishop John Noonan, Nov. 3, 2024. (GLENDA MEEKINS)

The long-awaited project placed on hold after the pandemic and affected by rising construction costs, was complete just before Bishop John Noonan blessed the renovation Nov. 2, 2024, the Solemnity of All Souls. The project also includes new marble floors and wooden niches to house statues of the Blessed Mother and St. Joseph.

Bishop Noonan officially installed Missionary of the Most Precious Blood Father Frankline Rayappa as pastor. (GLENDA MEEKINS)

After dedicating the altar with the Oil of Chrism, Bishop Noonan said, “On this altar we remember Christ is for all of us. … May your journey of faith be enriched by the beauty of your parish.”

Bishop Noonan also officially installed Missionary of the Precious Blood Father Frankline Rayappa, as pastor, giving him “the keys of the Kingdom.”

By Glenda Meekins of the Florida Catholic staff, November 7, 2024