[nina0113]

All Catholic Churches everywhere in the world have a crucifix.

Not quite all - St. Luke's in McLean, VA has what our priest called a 'resurrectifix' - the cross is on one side, then a fully-clothed risen Christ, holding out His arms in blessing, is about 15 feet away on the wall. I was in a wedding there a couple of years ago. The holy water font is a mulit-level fountain in the vestibule, that looks like it should have goldfish and pennies. The tabernacle is in a side chapel somewhere (I asked).

I realize the substance of the Church is not the forms, but it was so irreverent.

[Gophack]

That's really sad. The crucifix is one thing, but the tabernacle ... I have heard of the tabernacle being moved out of the church proper, but I always felt that was just wrong. Jesus Christ is the focus of our worship, and He should have a prominent place in the church. If my church moved the tabernacle ... which is on the altar, to the right of center ... I would complain and change parishes if they didn't move it back.

Fortunately, I think that my priests are OK and would never do such a thing.

[Gophack]

From EWTN:

Crucifix at Mass
Question from Anita Pollock on 05-28-2002:
Does a pastor have the authority to eliminate the crucifix in worship space substituting a stylized cross (without corpus) during Mass?

Answer by Colin B. Donovan, STL on 06-07-2002:
No, because during Mass, at least, the General Instruction calls for a cross with a corpus on it. 117 ... There is also to be a cross on or near the altar, with a figure of Christ crucified.

[Aquinasfan]

Diocese of Worcester, MA

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St. Luke's in McLean, VA has what our priest called a 'resurrectifix' - the cross is on one side, then a fully-clothed risen Christ, holding out His arms in blessing, is about 15 feet away on the wall. I was in a wedding there a couple of years ago. The holy water font is a mulit-level fountain in the vestibule, that looks like it should have goldfish and pennies. The tabernacle is in a side chapel somewhere (I asked).

I went to the same church in New Hampshire today. Just passing through. It was so depressing. My four year old kept trying to go and play in the "fountain." But then, the deacon gave a wonderful sermon. Obviously well prepared. I thought, he must be new.

After Mass I approached him and said, "Great homily. You obviously prepared. Have you been a deacon for long?"

"About six weeks actually. I'm just getting into the swing of it."