The new statues of St. Maurice, St. Joseph, and the Crucifix were many years in the making. After two failed attempts dating back to 2005, a third attempt was made in 2009. Through Fr. Fernando Suarez, an artist by the name of Reden Ballesteros, who lives in the Philippines, was commissioned to sculpt the three statues. They were completed in March 2010, shipped to Canada, and were blessed on June 20th, 2010.
I am grateful that after 46 years, the parish finally has a statue of St. Maurice. Also, it has been the desire for many years that a life-like image of the crucified Christ be fixed on the sanctuary wall. Lastly, St. Joseph was selected as the third statue for several reasons. First, it was to replace the smaller wooden statue of St. Joseph that was located on the North wall of the church. Secondly, St. Joseph is depicted holding the Child Jesus, which completes the presence of the Holy Family. And finally, he is a very important Saint in salvation history and is held in high esteem by parishioners of St. Maurice.
These three pieces of art have helped in adding some warmth to the sanctuary, as well as to give it a sense of Catholicity. I extend my gratitude to God, and to Frank and Clara Cardinali and family for their financial support to make this possible.
Fr. Galen Bank, CC
On the Solemnity of All Saints,
November, 2010
