I H S Meaning…

We are so blessed at St. Clare Church to have such beautiful artwork in statues, stained glass, icons, paintings, and more. Catholic teachings on church art and architecture require that all things in churches be created of true beauty and the original work of artists. Here in our parish, we have worked hard at keeping true to these teachings by always searching for faith-filled, excellent artists when selecting new pieces for our church.

I am pleased to “introduce” our newest art piece for the front of our tabernacle. It was created by a wood-carving artist in our parish with whom I worked closely in its design. (He humbly chooses to remain anonymous). The center ‘host’ carved from beautiful poplar wood has the letters “IHS” that represent letters of Jesus name in Greek…sort of a ‘monogram’ for Jesus that has been in our Catholic tradition for many
centuries. Like beams of light protruding from His Holy Name are carved walnut pieces of various angles and depth. Its colors work beautifully with the hand-painted wooden doors of the tabernacle that were created by another parishioner 15 years ago when the stone tabernacle was first designed.

I am always encouraging you to spend time in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel, before or after Mass or anytime stopping by the church during the day for quiet prayer with Jesus. I pray that this new additional symbol of our faith in the Real Presence of Jesus in the tabernacle will increase our devotion to the Eucharist.

Blessings from God be upon you in our new year of faith and grace,
Fr. Jim Deiters