San Francesco di Sales

A hidden gem, San Francesco di Sales, stands as a testament to faith and community. On November 16, 1997, a momentous occasion unfolded within its walls. Archbishop Salvatore De Giorgi led the Rite of Dedication, marking the church’s 35th anniversary and 25 years of pastoral ministry. San Francesco di Sales was officially consecrated to God. The dedication, a profound act, removed the building from secular use, giving it entirely to divine purpose. The dedication ceremony at San Francesco di Sales wasn’t just a ritual. It was a powerful symbol of the community’s journey. It was a celebration meant to resonate through the years, observed annually with solemnity. The ceremony began with a procession. The relic of St. Francis de Sales’ heart was carried to the altar, placed between two flickering candles. After Archbishop De Giorgi greeted the congregation, the parish priest presented the newly renovated church. Holy water was blessed and sprinkled on the people and the altar. The “Gloria a Dio” filled the air as the Mass continued. Readings from 1 Kings, Psalms, 1 Peter, and John’s Gospel echoed through San Francesco di Sales. Archbishop De Giorgi’s homily reflected on the community’s path. He urged them to embrace this moment of grace, explaining the significance of the dedication rite. The Litany of Saints followed, a harmonious prayer invoking the communion of saints. Then, the relic of St. Francis de Sales was placed at the altar’s base. It was encased in glass within a small box, accompanied by a parchment. Three Sisters of the Visitation Order, who gifted the parish a reproduction of the saint, approached with burning braziers. After the bishop anointed the altar with chrism, they placed the braziers upon it. Incense, symbolizing adoration and prayer, rose towards heaven. The parish priest and Father Scalici anointed twelve crosses along the nave with chrism and incensed the congregation. The parchment, placed with the relic, detailed the dedication, naming Archbishop De Giorgi, the date, and the church’s honoree. It also granted indulgences to those present and on future anniversaries. The altar at San Francesco di Sales, now anointed and adorned, was ready. The bishop proclaimed, “Let the light of Christ shine in the Church, and may the fullness of truth reach all peoples.” Lights illuminated the church, candles beneath the crosses glowed, and the sacred space was prepared for the Holy Sacrifice. The celebration concluded with Archbishop De Giorgi placing the Eucharist in the new ciborium. Commemorative parchments were signed, one displayed in the sacristy. Finally, the archbishop unveiled a plaque on the church’s right wall. This dedication wasn’t just a single event. It was a milestone in the life of San Francesco di Sales, a story etched in its very stones.