In August 2018 Pope Francis celebrated Mass in the Phoenix Park. Thanks to Fr Damian we were offered the cross used at that Mass to replace the cross that was made locally for the opening of Ballygall church and hung in a dominant position for the past 30 years above the altar. As with all ventures there was a mixed reaction to the idea of the new cross coming to Ballygall and importantly what would become of the old one. The intention is to use the four plaques of the Evangelists and place them on the four corners of the church, which were anointed when the church was consecrated in 1988.
When the old cross was taken down it was noticed that there had been some fire damage but thanks to the solid workmanship the cross didn’t take fire and do severe damage to not only the cross but the whole church.
The new cross was designed from the Penal days when the Catholic Church was under persecution. Blessed Margaret Ball, who lived in what is now Hillcrest Park, lived and died during that time of persecution. She witnessed with her life to the Christian faith and is a wonderful role model for us today in a time when our church is being purified for the mistakes of the past and a reminder that Christ will persevere.
On the new cross the arms of Jesus are much larger than normal reminding us of the far reaching arms of God to us in love and compassion.
There will also be a number of extra lights to add to the celebration of our liturgies in Ballygall. This will add to the brightness of the church and also the words of comfort on the back wall will be brighter. There will be a light highlighting the Tabernacle during the daytime drawing us into a deeper relationship with Jesus, the Bread of Life. There will also be a spotlight focusing on the Baptismal Font to be used on Holy Saturday night and during Baptisms when our new members will be welcomed into the community of Ballygall parish.
See also Fr. Damian’s piece on the new cross here