Soon the altar will be consecrated by the archbishop.  He will declare, “The altar is Christ.” Thus the altar will take its place as the centerpiece of our co-cathedral, reflecting this truth in both its strength and appearance. The altar becomes the most important element in the entire Church building, and is truly the center of thanksgiving that the Eucharist accomplishes. 

The mensa is the table of the altar upon which the Eucharist is prepared.  It is of rosso diaspro, a deeply veined marble, reminiscent of the constant theme of the Sacred Heart of Christ.  The mensa is based on twelve columns of contrasting rosso impero marble, surmounted by textured bronze accents, emblematic of the twelve apostles.  In its color and might, the altar represents Jesus Christ as the rock, resting on the solid foundation of our apostolic tradition.

In the center of the rosso impero base, a small sepulcher, or reliquary, will contain relics - the remains of the martyrs whose death imitates and participates in the Paschal Sacrifice of Christ.

The altar is a primary symbol of
Christ’s presence in the church.