Appropriately, the image of the dove in this week’s mystery photo is situated in the pulpit, on the canopy of the ambo. Symbolizing the Holy Ghost, the Third Person of the Blessed Trinity, the dove hovers above the head of the priest when he delivers the sermon.

Thank you to everyone for participating in this week’s mystery photo contest. Saint Francis de Sales church is blessed with many beautiful decorations which are meant to glorify God and lift the hearts of the faithful up to  God in prayer.

Photo Credits: Mr. Phil Roussin

In the Gospels, the dove is a typical symbol of the Holy Ghost, the Third Person of the Blessed Trinity.  When Jesus was baptized, the Holy Ghost descended upon Him in the form of a dove. In Christian art, the dove is often used to portray the Holy Ghost, as in the descent of the Holy Ghost at Pentecost.

Where have you seen this particular dove at St. Francis de Sales? Please enter your answer in the comment section.

Photo Credit: Mr. Phil Roussin

Thanks to everyone who participated in this week’s mystery photo contest.

In our mystery photo this week is the bronze plaque which marks the St. Francis de Sales church’s distinction as a national historic place. Located on the exterior wall close to the church’s main entrance, the bronze plaque has acquired a beautiful green natural patina over the last three decades.

Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. To be listed on the Register, a property must meet the National Register Criteria for Evaluation for age, integrity and significance. On November 2, 1978, St. Francis de Sales Church was formally recognized as a national historic place based on its architectural, historical, and cultural significance, according to national standards used by every state. Though not indicated on the plaque, its official designation is National Register #78003393.

Photo Credits: Mr. Phil Roussin

Welcome to the viewing of the first mystery photo of 2012!

In 1978, seventy years after its dedication in 1908, the present church building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  Can you tell us where this plaque may be found? Please enter your response in the comment section.

Photo Credit: Mr. Phil Roussin

Communion rail detail

This carved image evokes the bitter scene at the crucifixion described in the Gospel of St. John 19:24: “So they said to one another, ‘Let’s not tear it, but cast lots for it to see whose it will be,’ in order that the passage of scripture might be fulfilled: ‘They divided my garments among them, and for my vesture they cast lots.’

The image we wanted to guide your attention to is to be found at our communion rail: All faithful kneeling and receiving Holy Communion are able to see it – if we are attentive. The communion rail in our church allows us to kneel under the cross and to contemplate the mysteries of our faith.

Communion rail at the main altar

another detail from the communion rail

In many locations inside and outside the church, Saint Francis de Sales offers a rich visual treasury of our Christian cultural heritage. Thank you for participating in this week’s mystery search and for viewing with us .

We are indebted to Mr. Mark Abeln for providing us with these photos.

Where is this in the Oratory? From Psalm 22:19, “they divide my garments among them; for my clothing they cast lots.” Look around, behind and above you and tell us where in the Oratory this carved image can be found. Please enter your answer in  the comment section. (Photo credit: Mr. Mark Abeln of Rome of the West)