On Monday, February 10, 2025, the serene atmosphere of St. Joseph Oasis in Tiko was filled with deep reverence as His Lordship, Bishop Michael Bibi, presided over the installation of a new tabernacle in the community’s chapel. This sacred event marked a significant milestone for St. Joseph Oasis, a haven that provides special care for individuals with mental health challenges and other vulnerable persons.
Family picture after installation of tabernacle
During the Eucharistic celebration, Bishop Bibi emphasized the profound importance of the Blessed Sacrament being reserved in the tabernacle. He highlighted two key reasons why the presence of the Eucharist in the chapel was essential:
To provide an opportunity for those living within the community, like the residents of St. Joseph Oasis, to engage in adoration and deepen their relationship with Christ.
To allow for the visitation and reception of the Blessed Sacrament by brothers and sisters who may be sick and unable to attend Mass in a parish church.
Speaking passionately about the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist, Bishop Bibi reminded the faithful that the Eucharist is the Body and Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ. He stressed that belief in this real presence strengthens faith and sustains the Christian journey towards God’s eternal kingdom.
The Bishop further explained that every tabernacle must be placed in a visible location within the chapel and should be beautifully adorned to reflect the sacredness of its content—the Body of Christ. He insisted that the tabernacle should be securely fixed within the wall to ensure its stability and permanence.
Additionally, Bishop Bibi underscored the importance of regularly celebrating Mass in chapels where the Eucharist is reserved. He instructed that a priest within the community should celebrate Mass frequently to ensure the Blessed Sacrament remains consecrated. He also emphasized the necessity of the sanctuary lamp, which must be kept lit at all times to signify the continuous presence of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament.
The Superior of the convent Rev Sr Atabong thanked the bishop for the installation of the ternable, saying its the most important thing which has happened to them since moving to the new site.She yrged the children under their care and the resudents to make use of the presence of christ in their midst
