14 Tabernacle and the Blessed Sacrament Chapel

Tabernacle in Blessed Sacrament Chapel
behind the sanctuary 

The tabernacle is a special box or cabinet where consecrated hosts are kept – these are the hosts we receive in Holy Communion during Mass. We keep consecrated hosts in the tabernacle so that Holy Communion can be taken to those who are sick or housebound at any time. Another name given to the consecrated hosts is 'Blessed Sacrament'. Jesus promised to be with his Church 'until the end of time' and we believe that one of the ways in which he fulfils this promise is through his presence in the Blessed Sacrament. The Church asks people to show reverence for Jesus' presence in the Blessed Sacrament and this is why we genuflect towards the tabernacle and try to be quiet in Church.

Tabernacle at feast of Pentecost

CCC 1379 The tabernacle was first intended for the reservation of the Eucharist in a worthy place so that it could be brought to the sick and those absent outside of Mass. As faith in the real presence of Christ in his Eucharist deepened, the Church became conscious of the meaning of silent adoration of the Lord present under the Eucharistic species. It is for this reason that the tabernacle should be located in an especially worthy place in the church and should be constructed in such a way that it emphasizes and manifests the truth of the real presence of Christ in the Blessed Sacrament.

At Lancaster Cathedral the tabernacle is located in the Blessed Sacrament chapel. This is behind the sanctuary.  It stands on an altar which shows the Last Supper and is surrounded by a Triptych which shows scenes from the Lord's passion.