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Rorate Mass at the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe

Working in churches across America is an incredible honor, the greatest reward is seeing these sacred buildings receive the respect and awe that is fitting to that which they hold and represent. Pictures of the Shrine to Our Lady of Guadalupe packed for the Rorate Mass brings us joy and gives true purpose to our work.

Looking into the baldacchino at Our Lady of Guadalupe La Crosse, WI

The Rorate Mass is a traditional Votive Mass to Our Lady during Advent. The Mass honors Our Lady’s humble obedience to the will of God relayed in a message by the Angel Gabriel at the Annunciation. Before the Second Vatican Council, these Masses were held every Saturday and even on weekdays early in the morning before dawn. Lit by candlelight alone, the Mass represents the Incarnation and the Light of Christ coming into the world. As the sun rises the church is flooded with the light of the new day just as on Christmas day our Faith is illuminated by the Birth of the Savior. The name of the Mass, Rorate Caeli, originates from Isaiah 45:8:

“Rorate, caeli, desuper, et nubes pluant justum, aperiatur terra, et germinet Salvatorem.”

“Drop down dew, ye heavens, from above, and let the clouds rain the just: let the earth be opened and bud forth a Saviour.”

The Mass is filled with symbolism and history, it is beautiful to see a revival of such traditions in the Faith.

RORATE MASS AT THE SHRINE

 

Peter Kwasniewski’s article for the New Liturgical Movement about the Rorate Mass at The Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe celebrated by His Emminence Cardinal Burke.

THE SHRINE & OUR WORK

 

Working with the architect Duncan Stroik, we designed and executed all decorative finishes, including many faux marbles and other stones, gilding, and a dome ceiling. It was an honor to be a part of this project.