Last week, on May 3, 2017, Monsignor Walter Rossi, Rector of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, appeared on EWTN Live as Father Mitch Pacwa’s special guest. Throughout the live broadcast, Monsignor Rossi discussed the fascinating history of the National Shrine and the monumental effort underway to complete America’s Catholic Church with the mosaic ornamentation of what will be its “crowning jewel” — the Trinity Dome. He spoke of the behind-the scenes process of crafting and installing the mosaic as well as the significance of the figures represented in the dome’s artwork.
“I have seen this work in process and they [the mosaics] are going to be breathtaking. The faces are magnificent,” Monsignor Rossi said.
Monsignor Rossi revealed the special importance of the Trinity Dome as an authentic reflection of the universality of Catholicism which the National Shrine seeks to exemplify. Displaying a diverse collection of twenty-three saints who have a special association with America and the Shrine, the Trinity Dome represents the unique cultures of visitors across the country and the world.
“I like to say that I am basically the pastor of… the most diverse congregation in the country,” Monsignor Rossi said. “At the Shrine, you see the face of the entire world – the entire Catholic Church – come through our doors, and you see devotion in every form… It reflects the diversity of our Catholic Church.”
Monsignor Rossi mentioned the critical one-time second collection that will take place in parishes across the United States on Mother’s Day, May 14, 2017in support of the Trinity Dome project:
“We asked for the special collection on Mother’s Day weekend to assist us with this project,” he said. “We ask all of our viewers at home to pray for the success of this collection which will help to bring to completion … your church: The Basilica of the National Shrine. It is your church, your parish away from home. You helped build it, you keep it going, and we’re asking you to help us continue.”
The Trinity Dome National Collection will offer the faithful an historic opportunity to honor their Catholic heritage and leave a legacy by contributing to the completion the magnificent Trinity Dome – and the National Shrine – to bring the people of America an opportunity to draw closer to the Lord and His Mother. As Father Mitch Pacwa reflected:
View Full Interview“The goal of a piece of art is not to explain away a mystery, but to evoke a kind of meditation that draws us into it. Perspective is gained when God draws us higher.”
