In 2022 a stunning new mural of The Last Supper has been unveiled in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel at Knock Basilica, a peaceful space where pilgrims can pray before the Blessed Sacrament. Created by artist Naomi McBride in consultation with Fr Richard Gibbons, the mural was specially designed to fit above the tabernacle and complement its Celtic artwork, originally created by Patrick McElroy. Inspired by the Book of Kells, Celtic knotwork and the work of Celtic design expert George Bain, the mural combines traditional Irish symbolism with a contemporary artistic style. At its centre, Christ holds the Eucharistic chalice, with Saints Peter and John beside him, while the Lamb of God appears above, symbolising Christ’s sacrifice. The apostles are shown around Jesus with meaningful symbols: Peter carries the crossed keys, John holds a quill and manuscript, and Judas Iscariot clutches the bag containing the thirty pieces of silver. A gilded gold-leaf background gives the entire scene a warm, luminous appearance in the soft light of the chapel.

 

Night Prayer - Scripture Reading for today 

"Do not let resentment lead you into sin; the sunset must not find you still angry. Do not give the devil his opportunity." (Eph 4:26-27)

Saint Alexius, man of God, you are our support, our model and our patron as we carry out our ministry to the sick, the poor and the elderly. Ask our Lord to send sufficient vocations to our Congregation so that we may continue our legacy of service among those in need. Amen.

One year ago today, on Sunday, September 7, at 10:00 a.m., Pope Leo canonized Carlo Acutis (1991–2006), who died tragically young at the age of 15 from leukemia. Taking advantage of the opportunities offered by the internet and reaching out to young people, he created a very serious website that collects and catalogs Eucharistic miracles that have occurred around the world. It is no coincidence that he is revered today as the patron saint of youth and the internet. He also became the first saint of Generation Y.

Carlo Acutis' website: https://www.miracolieucaristici.org/en/Liste/list.html

As this special day approaches, we wish Brother Luke and Brother Sean a happy birthday, good health, and much continued joy in their ministry.

J.W. Baumgartner - Saint Alexius as the patron saint against earthquakes, colored engraving, mid-18th century.

An Alexian brother, a color woodcut based on an illustration by M. Jacques Charles Bar, from Tiron Abbot’s book "Histoire et Costumes des Ordres Religieux" (History and Costumes of Religious Orders), a volume of over 600 pages, published by Librairie Historique-Artistique, Brussels, 1845. The publication presents the official vestments of a total of 80 religious orders (both male and female).