Altar built, donated by Tonn and Blank Construction leaders
The Most Rev. Robert McClory, Bishop of the Diocese of Gary, performed the rite of consecration for the altar in the St. Joseph Chapel during a special Mass at the new Franciscan Health Crown Point hospital on Tuesday.
The altar, constructed of red oak with a stone top, was hand-built and donated by Tonn and Blank Construction President and CEO Jon Gilmore and retired Tonn and Blank Construction Vice President of Operations Joe Coar.
“Joe and I have been working together at Tonn and Blank and in the cabinet shop for many decades,” Gilmore said. “Working in the shop at night and on weekends is relaxing for us. We love the Sisters and their mission. We are grateful that our work will bring joy and healing to this great new facility.”
Sister M. Petra Nielsen, OSF, vice president mission integration for Franciscan Health Crown Point, noted the significance of the timing of the service.
“To have the altar built by a Joe (Coar), consecrated on the Feast of St. Joseph and in St. Joseph Chapel is all very special,” Sister Petra said.
Bishop McClory said during the Mass that much like the work of St. Joseph, the work of those in healthcare is often hidden and unrecognized, but the contribution is significant.
Franciscan Health Crown Point President and CEO Dr. Daniel McCormick described the Mass as “transformative” in the life of the new hospital and its staff alike, saying he appreciated Bishop McClory’s message for healthcare workers.
“They do a lot in silence and do not get rewarded a lot in words,” McCormick said.
Bishop McClory thanked Gilmore and Coar for their contribution of the altar.
“This altar is no simple table,” Bishop McClory said. “It was certainly a labor of love.”
The rite of consecration in the Catholic church is performed by a Bishop during a special Mass using the sacred Chrism to anoint the altar. During the consecration, the altar is set apart and dedicated for sacred use and the worship of God.
The rite of consecration and Mass on Tuesday followed a January chapel and hospital blessing, also led by Bishop McClory, prior the opening of the new hospital.
The new Franciscan Health Crown Point is located at 12750 Saint Francis Drive (corner of U.S. 231 and Interstate 65). More information about the new hospital – including a virtual tour -- is available online.
