Read full story published in The Catholic Virginian Dec. 7, 2023.
The usual star of the Advent decorations at the Basilica of St. Andrew in Roanoke is a wreath with the circumference of a tractor-trailer tire suspended from the ceiling. But on the first Sunday of the season, Dec. 3, some new symbols were the center of attention – the ombrellino, tintinnabulum and seal with crossed keys that identify a basilica.
In a joyous ceremony streamed online, Bishop Barry C. Knestout, priests, deacons and more than 500 worshippers celebrated the display and blessing of the items that signify St. Andrew as the second basilica in the diocese. The Vatican gave its approval earlier this year.
“With its golden brick façade, its dramatic architectural detail and elements, it beckons all visiting the area to come closer, to come and see,” the bishop said in his homily. “May God continue to bless this parish community and all who visit this Basilica of St. Andrew.”
“It’s been a long time coming in the thoughts of many people including myself,” said former St. Andrew pastor, Msgr. Thomas Miller (ret.). “I’ve always thought this is an iconic building and a sacred place.”
After the Mass, people posed for pictures in front of the new emblems. “It’s always been a beacon on the hill in the Roanoke Valley,” said longtime parishioner Cathy Connell. “But this is something that will draw more people here and get the blessings that we have.”
Editor’s note: Check back here for our full story, coming in the Dec. 11 issue of The Catholic Virginian!
See more photos from the Dec. 3 Mass at Basilica of St. Andrew, Roanoke.