Xaghra Parish » Gallery » 2009 » LENT 2009 » 09 APR 09 - THE EUCHARISTIC CELEBRATION
Before going into mourning for the death of Jesus Christ, the Church commemorates the Last Supper and the Institution of the Holy Eucharist. To the gathered Apostles Jesus told them to do what he was doing that night in his memory. He was thereby also instituting the Priesthood. On this day only one mass is celebrated, in Xaghra starting at 7.00 pm. Co celebrating with Archpriest Mgr Carmelo Refalo were nine priests and Deacon Rev Joseph Curmi. The priests were Archpriest Emeritus of Xaghra Mgr Eucharist Sultana, Canons Angelo Bartolo, Anthony Refalo, John Bartolo, Joseph Sultana, Julian Refalo Rapa and John Sultana and the Reverend Fathers Saviour Sultana and Jesmond Gauci. The procession to the Altar was led by a lady and two youngsters who will be receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation this year, carrying the Holy Oils. Twelve men depicting the twelve Apostles moved with the procession. While Lessons were being read offerings to the altar were made. First the Chalice and the cruets with water and wine followed later by three ciboria full of hosts to be consecrated and finally a jug, a basin and a towel which Mgr Archpriest was to use later to wash the feet of the twelve apostles. This took place after the homily with Mgr Refalo washing the right foot of each one and then kissing it. Among these men were a Local Councillor, a retired sexton and senior members of the Society of Christian Doctrine led by the Superior Mr Joseph Attard. The large congregation filled all corners of the Basilica and two large monitors were in place in the aisles so that the faithful there could follow the proceedings. Ms Marion Portelli and Mr Joseph Rapa were Mass animators. The Voci Angeliche Choir directed by Ms Grace Vella and its musical director Mr Ronald Camilleri accompanying on the organ animated the singing. Fr Joseph Bajada was in charge of the liturgy proceedings. Deacon Reverend Joseph Curmi, transposed the Holy Eucharist to the Altar of Repose when Mass ended. The Confraternity of the Blessed Sacrament led the procession from the High Altar to the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament turned into the Altar of Repose. As soon as the service was over, the Seven Visits to the Altar of Repose started being conducted. At the same time, similar celebrations were taking place in other Churches in the Parish, namely those at Marsalforn and Nazzarenu.
Not yet rated
