November 26, 2007

We are pleased to offer you the opportunity to share some photos of the recent blessing of our Father Solanus Retreat located here at Most Blessed Sacrament Friary in Newark. The dedication and blessing by Archbishop John Myers officially concluded over nine months of work transforming the former Dominican monastery infirmary into a place of rest and hospitality for priests, seminarians, and religious men. The renovation was made possible through the efforts of Stas and Marion, friends of Fr. Mariusz. The retreat area includes eight bedrooms, a kitchen and dining room, a comfortable living room, a small library, and solarium reading area. Retreatants will be able to enjoy the friar’s picturesque cloister courtyard and expansive garden.

While renovation was taking place in the former infirmary, restoration has been taking place in the public chapel where, for over a century, the laity have participated in the Eucharistic adoration with the nuns. Thanks to photos from the archives, the friars have slowly revived the classical décor of the chapel modernized over thirty years ago. A new sanctuary staircase leading to the Eucharistic niche was fabricated and installed by our artisan friends from East Germany. Br. Felix Mary, assisted by Scott Hansson and Tom Marsich, installed a new inlaid oak floor in the sanctuary. Br. Andrew restored a once hidden mural of adoring angels, while Br. Daniel and Br. Didacus put up a medieval design wainscoting throughout the entire chapel.

Also, the new adoration niche was artistically constructed and installed by Josef Kita. Other generous benefactors, Rita & Bob Telione, donated a set of gothic Stations of the Cross. Plans are being made to replace the modern style lighting fixtures, service the chapel organ, and install a new sound system – thus the restoration of the chapel will come to a happy conclusion!

Beginning this December, every Friday from 10 AM to 5 PM, the chapel will once again be opened to the public for quiet prayer, meditation, and Eucharistic adoration. Thank you friends, for your interest, prayers, and helpful support!

Fr. Glenn Sudano, CFR

Most Blessed Sacrament Friary, Newark, NJ