As much as I hate to confess to the world, Friday morning was our first visit to our new church, Our Lady of the Rosary. It was blessed during the spring with a much ado "grand opening", making it the first Christian church in Doha. The Emir graciously granted permission for our church to be built in the Industrial Area, which you can see is quite dusty and construction laden. We had attended services prior in our temporary facilities, but somehow never made the transition. I'm afraid we let the terrible construction and inconvenience overtake our sense and sensibilities. Well, we found it Friday morning despite the construction and were pleasantly surprised to find that the previous "diversion" that was in place had been removed. The church is quite unusual by American standards, but we must remember we are far from there and now know, just in case there was any doubt, we are just a few more fish in a big sea. Mass is said in eight languages which should give you an idea of the diversity that Doha offers. The colors chosen resemble more of a baby's nursery than the sanctuaries that we are used to. No cushions on the pews, no padding on the kneelers, just a simple sanctuary...maybe for the simple purpose of keeping us focused on why we are really there. Just in case one forgot why, Amazing Grace was the opening hymn. which always serves as a sobering reality check.
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It looks beautiful. I'll bet it felt good to get back.
ReplyDeleteIt is quite different but beautiful in its own way. Eight languages is a lot and I thought our church had too many masses in three languages.
ReplyDeleteThe Church is really pretty. I do wish they had done something a little nicer for the projection screens, if that is what that is. Hopefully, that is just temporary. I look forward to seeing it in person!!
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