Institute of Christ the King

Pilgrimage to Holy Hill

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 15:43:03 PDT

Over five hundred faithful and friends of the Institute — a much larger crowd than expected—participated in a pilgrimage to the National Shrine of Our Lady Help of Christians at the Basilica of Holy Hill near Milwaukee, Wisconsin on Saturday, May 23. Large chapters of faithful from St. Stanislaus Oratory in Milwaukee, from St. Joseph’s Oratory in Green Bay, From St. Mary’s Oratory in Wausau, from St. Mary’s in Cashton, from St. Mary Oratory in Rockford, and from the Shrine of Christ the King in Chicago, as well as pilgrims from the Deep South and Eastern seaboard States all converged on Holy Hill in thanksgiving to the Blessed Virgin Mary for graces received by the Institute, especially the Pontifical Right status granted by the Holy See last autumn. Despite an ominous weather forecast, sunshine broke through the threatening clouds as the pilgrims walked in procession up the hill praying the Rosary and singing Marian hymns.

Inside the crowded Basilica Reverend Canon Olivier Meney, Rector of St. Stanislaus Oratory in Milwaukee, was the celebrant of a beautiful Solemn High Mass, for which many members of the choirs of the participating apostolates joined together to provide the beautiful choral music and Gregorian Chant. From Rome Monsignor R. Michael Schmitz, Provincial Superior for the United States, sent a letter to the pilgrims conveying the best greetings and blessing of Archbishop Raymond L. Burke, Prefect of the Supreme Tribunal of the Apostolic Signature in the Vatican, and of Monsignor Gilles Wach, Founder and Prior of the Institute. After an outdoor picnic lunch, the faithful gathered once again for a spiritual meditation, Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament, and the renewal of the Consecration of the Institute to Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception.

A wonderful manifestation of the family spirit of the Institute, this pilgrimage expressed the power of charity to unite the faithful in the sacred Liturgy of Holy Mother Church. It is indeed through charity that the harmony of God’s objective truth must be reestablished in its rightful place of precedence over subjective human reality both in society and in our own individual lives. In the sermon of the Solemn High Mass Reverend Canon Matthew Talarico reminded the faithful that they share in the mission of the Institute of Christ the King: veritatem facientes in caritate, "Living the Truth in Charity." The Catholic Faith, as well as Catholic culture and identity, can be resumed in this phrase of St. Paul. Following the example and invoking the intercession of Our Lady and of the patron saints of the Institute, we must strive to benefit from the graces we receive from the Liturgy in order to make God’s truth loved by those whom we meet each day. This involves practicing charity even in the little details of daily life at home, in the workplace, at school, as well as teaching children the truth in a manner which is both gentle in its firmness and loving in correction, so that the goodness and beauty of God’s truth may attract people of today's world to seek salvation in Christ and His Church.

Lourdes Pilgrimage with Archbishop Burke

Wed, 13 May 2009 13:46:04 PDT

In joyful gratitude to Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, patroness of the Institute, for having received the Pontifical Right status from the Holy See, the Institute organized a pilgrimage to Lourdes, France. His Grace, Archbishop Raymond L. Burke, Prefect of the Supreme Tribunal of the Apostolic Signature, offered a Pontifical High Mass in the Upper Basilica on Saturday, April 25, followed by Solemn Te Deum and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament.

Later that afternoon, Archbishop Burke gave a spiritual conference together with Monsignor Gilles Wach and Monsignor R. Michael Schmitz, for the several hundreds of faithful who came from all over France, the United States, and beyond. Dozens of Institute priests and seminarians, as well as the Institute's Sisters Adorers wearing their blue choir mantle, led the large crowd of faithful in a candlelight procession in honor of Our Blessed Mother. On Sunday, April 26, Monsignor Wach celebrated a Solemn High Mass and offered Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament in the afternoon to conclude this very beautiful Marian pilgrimage.

Meeting with Our Holy Father

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 13:05:04 PDT

At a Wednesday audience in early April, Monsignor Wach presented Reverend Mother Mary of the Love of God of the Adorers of the Royal Heart to His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI. The other Sisters Adorers of the Royal Heart were also present. Engaging the Reverend Mother in conversation for several minutes, the Holy Father graciously granted the Apostolic Blessing upon our young and ever-growing community of Sisters, as well as upon all members of the Institute and the faithful of its apostolates.

Our Holy Father Thanks You

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 13:12:52 PDT

Our Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI kindly expresses his gratitude to all of the many people who offered him the very abundant spiritual bouquet presented to him by the Institute in March. The following letter has been received from the Vatican Secretariat of State:

I gladly confirm the reception of your letter with which you have presented a rich spiritual bouquet with promises of prayers for Our Holy Father from the faithful who are associated with the Institute of Christ the King in many places across the United States.

His Holiness has asked me to convey his gratitude to all of you for this beautiful sign of fidelity to the successor of St. Peter and of his service as universal Shepherd.

Pope Benedict XVI includes your intentions in his prayers as well and grants you wholeheartedly the desired Apostolic blessing.

With best Easter wishes and kind regards,

Monsignor Gabriel Caccia
Assessor

Holy Hill Midwest Pilgrimage

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 09:04:17 PDT

On Saturday, May 23, the Institute is organizing a Marian pilgrimage for the feast of Our Lady Help of Christians at her national shrine in the beautiful Basilica known as "Holy Hill," near Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The program of events for this pilgrimage is listed below:

12:00 noon Departure of the Rosary Procession from the lower parking lot
1:30 pm Solemn High Mass in the Upper Basilica celebrated by Monsignor R. M. Schmitz
3:00 pm Family picnic
4:00 pm Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament in the St. Therese Chapel (Level 2)
Spiritual meditation given by Monsignor Schmitz
5:30 pm Dismissal

For more information, please contact the closest Institute apostolate.

Good News for Limerick Apostolate

Tue, 14 Apr 2009 18:22:34 PDT

The Most Reverend Donal B. Murray, Bishop of Limerick, Ireland, has officially confirmed in a recent document that the Institute of Christ the King Sovereign Priest is charged with the care of the Latin Mass Apostolate in the Diocese of Limerick. Monsignor Wach, Prior General of the Institute of Christ the King Sovereign Priest, warmly thanks Bishop Murray for having confided this apostolate in Limerick to our community and assures him that the canons of the Institute of Christ the King will take it upon themselves to exercise their priestly ministry in a spirit of service and ecclesiastical communion.

With the permission of the Most Reverend Bishop of Limerick and the welcoming kindness of Reverend Father Irwinn, the extraordinary form of the Roman Rite has been celebrated regularly at St. Patrick's Church on Dublin Road for the past three years.

Since the beginning of the Institute's work in Ireland, Reverend Canon Wulfran Lebocq was appointed as the Institute priest responsible for the Limerick apostolate. Deeply touched by the welcome he has received and continues to experience, Canon Lebocq assures you of his prayers and priestly devotion and relies on your faithful support and assistance..

Learn About Our New Ireland Apostolate »

Pontifical High Mass in Rome

Tue, 14 Apr 2009 08:06:11 PDT

His Excellency, the Most Reverend Dino Fisichella, Rector of the Pontifical Lateran University and President of the Pontifical Academy for Life, celebrated a Pontifical High Mass at the Abbey church of the Three Fountains in Rome. This Mass celebrated on March 28 was the highlight of the Institute pilgrimage to Rome for the Year of Saint Paul.

According to venerable tradition, Saint Paul was beheaded on this spot during the reign of the Emperor Nero. His head bounced three times on the ground, thus miraculously causing three fountains of pure water to spring forth.

View the Photo Gallery »

Six New Deacons for Holy Mother Church

Wed, 25 Mar 2009 08:01:24 PDT

On the feast of Saint Benedict, co-patron of the Institute, Franc Cardinal Rode, Prefect of the the Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life, ordained six young men to the diaconate: one Italian, two Americans, and three French. Many friends and supporters of the Institute came to Gricigliano for this beautiful Pontifical High Mass of Ordination in the seminary chapel. May Saint Benedict intercede for these six young deacons, that they may be faithful servants of the Church according to the spirit and mission which the Institute has received.

His Eminence also visited the convent of the Adorers of the Royal Heart of Jesus Sovereign Priest, the female branch of the Institute, and celebrated Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament in the convent chapel.

View Photos of the Ordinations »

Solemn High Mass in Oakland

Mon, 09 Mar 2009 19:40:28 PDT

Monsignor Schmitz celebrated a Solemn High Mass for Quinquagesima Sunday at Saint Margaret Mary in Oakland in the presence of hundreds of faithful. During his visit, Monsignor also gave a special presentation about the canonical lifestyle of the Institute, which the Holy See approved with the granting of the status of Pontifical Right last October. The festive reception which followed this event expressed the family spirit of charity and warmth which the Institute strives to foster in each apostolate.

Mass at Santa Clara Mission

Wed, 04 Mar 2009 18:33:10 PST

During his recent visit to California, Monsignor Schmitz celebrated a Solemn High Mass in honor of Our Blessed Mother on Saturday, February 21, at the Mission church Santa Clara de Asís. The location of this historic Mission is not far from the apostolate of the Institute in Santa Clara, the Oratory of Our Lady of Perpetual Help. A large number of faithful of the Oratory, as well as from the Institute’s Oakland apostolate at St. Margaret Mary’s, were present for this Holy Mass and provided the Gregorian chant and choral music, as well as the liturgical service at the altar.

Located on the campus of Santa Clara University, this mission was founded on January 12, 1777 by Blessed Junípero Serra. Ruined and rebuilt six times, the present church was rebuilt in the 1920s, and consecrated in 1929.

Pro-Life from Coast to Coast

Fri, 27 Feb 2009 17:12:35 PST

Institute priests and faithful joined in pro-life gatherings across the nation.

In California Canon Jean-Marie Moreau and a large group of faithful from the Institute’s Oakland apostolate participated in the annual West Coast Walk for Life. On the East Coast Canon Andreas Hellmann and a busload of faithful from the Institute’s Oratory of St. Anthony in West Orange, New Jersey, traveled to Washington, D.C., for the national March for Life.

May Our Lady of Guadalupe intercede on behalf of the unborn!

Confirmations in Rockford

Tue, 24 Feb 2009 18:15:26 PST

On February 22, His Excellency, the Most Reverend Thomas G. Doran, Bishop of Rockford, administered the Sacrament of Confirmation according to the traditional rite to over ninety young adults at St. Mary's Oratory, of which Canon Brian Bovee serves as Rector.

Well over five hundred faithful attended this beautiful ceremony and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament which followed. The Institute is profoundly grateful to His Excellency, Bishop Doran, for his paternal guidance and continual support of its apostolate at Saint Mary's over the past thirteen years.

Spiritual Bouquet for Pope Benedict XVI

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 19:58:47 PST

Amid the anti-Catholic sentiment in the media of today, please remember to pray for our beloved Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, that God may continue to grant him an abundance of spiritual wisdom and strength to guide the Barque of Peter through the difficult waters of our times.

Desiring to show our filial support and gratitude to our Holy Father, the Institute of Christ the King wishes to offer an abundant spiritual bouquet to His Holiness. Your prayers are needed. To participate in this spiritual bouquet, please use our online form, which will be available until Saturday, March 7. Simply indicate the number and types of prayers you wish to offer. This spiritual bouquet will then be presented directly to His Holiness.

May God bless you for your prayers and sacrifices on behalf of His Vicar on earth.

[Note: The spiritual bouquet form is now closed.]

New Apostolate in Wisconsin

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 13:10:46 PST

At the request of His Grace, Timothy M. Dolan, Archbishop of Milwaukee, the Institute of Christ the King now offers a High Mass on the fourth Sunday of every month at Holy Name of Jesus Church in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. Canon Olivier Meney, Rector of Saint Stanislaus Oratory in Milwaukee, offered the first High Mass at this new apostolate of the Institute on Sunday, January 25, for the Feast of the Conversion of Saint Paul, in the presence of over two hundred faithful.

Pilgrimage in Honor of St. Francis de Sales

Sat, 14 Feb 2009 09:52:39 PST

On January 29, feast of Saint Francis de Sales, Institute priests and seminarians, as well as the Sisters Adorers of the Royal Heart of Jesus, made a pilgrimage to Treviso, Italy, where the heart of Saint Francis de Sales is enshrined and honored in the convent of the Visitation Sisters. This pilgrimage has become an annual tradition.

Monsignor Wach celebrated a Solemn High Mass in honor of the Doctor of Divine Charity. In the late afternoon, Monsignor Schmitz presided at Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament and presented the holy relic to the sisters, seminarians, and faithful for pious veneration.

First Pontifical High Mass at the Shrine

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 14:02:36 PST

Despite the inclement Chicago winter, hundreds of faithful attended a Pontifical High Mass celebrated at the Shrine of Christ the King by His Excellency, the Most Reverend Joseph N. Perry, auxiliary bishop in Chicago, on Sunday, January 11.

Participants of the Gregorian Chant Workshop for the Serious Student beautifully sang the Gregorian Mass propers, and members of Chicago Chorale sang Victoria’s Missa Magnum Mysterium as well as several polyphonic motets. This was the first Pontifical High Mass celebrated at the Shrine since it was reopened in late December 2007, when His Eminence Francis Cardinal George crowned the four hundred-year-old statue of the Infant King which is enshrined above the high altar.

View Photos of the Pontifical High Mass »

Shrine 2009 Calendar of Events

Wed, 04 Feb 2009 18:38:13 PST

In its mission to bring the beauty of faith and culture to the Southside of Chicago, the Shrine of Christ the King has launched an impressive 2009 calendar of events for the first half of 2009.

The calendar features monthly choral Masses on the 25th of every month in commemoration of the Nativity of the Holy Infant King, as well as free classical chamber concerts, a Chicago Cultural speaker series, mornings of spiritual recollection every first Saturday of the month, a monthly class on writings of the great Masters of Spirituality, as well as other special events.

To view the calendar, please visit InfantKing.org.

Chant Workshop

Fri, 16 Jan 2009 10:26:25 PST

Serious students of Gregorian Chant came from around the Midwest to the Shrine of Christ the King Sovereign Priest, where Canon Wulfran Lebocq, Choirmaster of the Institute of Christ the King’s International Seminary in Gricigliano, Italy, directed a Chant Workshop weekend from January 9-11. Based on the method of Solemses as taught by the late Dom Joseph Gajard, the workshop was designed as a series of classes and chant practices for the intermediate/advanced student with special emphasis on Gregorian rhythm, modality, and chironomy.

On Friday and Saturday, the nearly forty participants sang the Gregorian Propers and the Kyriale at a Missa Cantata celebrated by Monsignor R. Michael Schmitz, who emphasized in his sermons the spiritual dimension of Gregorian Chant: "Our life is like a melody which must be structured with God’s rhythm.” They also chanted a variety of pieces for Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament on Friday and Saturday.

On Sunday, the participants provided the Chant for a Pontifical High Mass celebrated at the Shrine by His Excellency, the Most Reverend Joseph N. Perry (video footage is currently being produced and will soon be available). After the Mass and the reception which followed, Canon Lebocq gave an introduction to Gregorian Chant for beginners, underlining its historical origins as well as the rudiments of solfeggio.

Photos and Video from the Workshop

Photos from the Workshop
Videos: Video 1 | Video 2 (AVI format)

Lourdes Pilgrimage with Archbishop Burke

Wed, 14 Jan 2009 09:31:24 PST

In joyful gratitude to Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, patroness of the Institute, for having received the Pontifical Right status from the Holy See, the Institute invites you all to a special event: a pilgrimage in Lourdes, France, with His Grace, Archbishop Raymond L. Burke, Prefect of the Supreme Tribunal of the Apostolic Signature, and Monsignor Gilles Wach, Monsignor R. Michael Schmitz, Institute priests, and seminarians.

Saturday, April 25

11:30am: Pontifical High Mass in the Upper Basilica celebrated by His Grace, Archbishop Burke, followed by Solemn Te Deum and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament in Thanksgiving for the Institute's reception of Pontifical Right status
5:00pm: Spiritual conference of His Grace, Archbishop Burke, with Reverend Monsignor Wach and Monsignor Schmitz in the Jean XXIII Conference Hall
9:00pm: Candlelight Procession

Sunday, April 26

9:15am: Stations of the Cross outdoors
11:00am: Solemn High Mass in the Upper Basilica celebrated by Reverend Monsignor Wach
2:45pm Solemn Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament

The CLIO Travel Agency in Paris, France, may assist you with travel planning if you should wish to use their services. Please note that travel arrangements do not involve the responsibility of the Institute of Christ the King. For further inquiries and information, please contact directly Mrs. Odette Page, an English-speaking travel agent of CLIO Travel Agency, at (+33) 1.53.68.82.63 or email her at odette.page@clio.fr.

Photos of Our 2008 Pilgrimage »

St. Anthony's in West Orange Erected Oratory

Sat, 03 Jan 2009 10:38:17 PST

The Most Reverend Archbishop of Newark John J. Myers has graciously given permission to Monsignor the Prior General of the Institute to erect St. Anthony’s Chapel in West Orange, New Jersey, as an Oratory and residence of the Institute of Christ the King according to the prescriptions of Canon Law. At the same time, the Institute has received the permission to keep all the sacramental registers and thus to celebrate the entire Liturgy for all the sacraments in the Extraordinary form also in the future.

St. Anthony of Padua
with the Virgin Mary and Infant Jesus

This important step was made after the Board of Directors had decided to bestow the property to the Institute of Christ the King Sovereign Priest, this decision being preceded by the very favorable results of a poll conducted among the faithful. The property transition came shortly before Christmas, and the permission of the Archbishop and the erection of the Oratory and Residence by Msgr. Gilles Wach arrived on Christmas as a special gift from St. Anthony, patron of the Chapel.

On this occasion, the Institute of Christ the King expresses its deepest gratitude for the confidence the former and present Board members and the faithful of the Oratory have shown us. The Institute also thanks the Board of Directors and the Chapel volunteers for their steadfast fidelity and their dedicated work over the years. We implore the protection of Christ the King, of the Immaculate Conception, and of St. Anthony in a special way over the Oratory, all its faithful, and the Rector, Rev. Canon Andreas Hellmann, of the Institute of Christ the King. The Oratory members continue to remember Rev. Father Paul Wickens, founder of St. Anthony’s, with prayerful gratitude. May his soul rest in peace!

Learn more about Saint Anthony Oratory »

Immaculate Conception Feast in Rome

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 17:07:39 PST

On December 8, Feast of the Immaculate Conception, the Institute of Christ the King Sovereign Priest organized a candlelight Marian procession through the very heart of Rome for the closing of the Lourdes Jubilee year. Lead by Canon Joseph Luzuy, the procession began at the Church of Jesus and Mary (Chiesa Gesu e Maria), which serves as the church of the Institute’s apostolate in Rome. A very large crowd of more than a 1000 faithful then filed down the Via del Corso, an avenue which serves as a main artery to the center of the city, to Chiesa Santa Maria in Aquiro (Piazza Capranica), where the plenary indulgence for the Lourdes Jubilee was made available to the faithful (Chiesa Giubulare). It was here in this church that the image of Our Lady of Lourdes was publicly offered for the veneration of the faithful for the first time in Italy.

View Photos of the Event »

Consecration to the Immaculate Conception

Fri, 12 Dec 2008 21:45:58 PST

After a solemn novena comprised each day of a sermon, sung Litany of Loreto, devotional prayer and hymn, followed by Benediction, Monsignor Gilles Wach, Prior General, renewed on December 8 the consecration of the Institute to Mary Immaculate. As every year, white votive candles lit up Gricigliano in honor of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception. This novena and consecration were also solemnly made in all of the houses of the Institute throughout the world.

Solemn moment of the Consecration

The Holy See having granted the Institute the status of Pontifical Right on the feast of Our Lady of the Rosary two months before, the feast of the Immaculate Conception this year was a special day of joyous thanksgiving for this great privilege accorded by our Holy Father.

A 2009 commemorative calendar will be available in all of the apostolates of the Institute across the country, as well as in our online store in the next few days.

The consecration of the Institute to Mary Immaculate and her important place in the canonical life of its members is outwardly expressed in the blue of the choir habit.

Photos from Around the World

Msgr. Wach renews the consecration. A decorative candle made by one of the seminarians is lit In her honor.	Novices and postulants of the Sisters Adorers in prayer to Mary Immaculate
Seminarians in prayer after the night Office of Compline	Gricigliano is lit up with white votive candles in honor of Mary Immaculate
Consecration to Mary Immaculate in Old Saint Patrick’s Oratory, Kansas City, Missouri	Feast of the Immaculate Conception at St. Mary’s Oratory in Wausau, WI
Missions in Gabon: feast of the Immaculate Conception in a church currently being built in her honor in the capital of Libreville	Holy Mass
Marian Procession through the streets of Rennes, France	Procession
Candlelight procession at St. Margaret Mary's in Oakland, CA	Candlelight procession
Procession

American Thanksgiving in Gricigliano

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 00:31:48 PST

As the already large number of seminarians from the United States continues to steadily increase, the celebration of American Thanksgiving at our International Seminary in Gricigliano, Italy, becomes grander with each passing year.

During the candlelight dinner which is served in the refectory, Monsignor Wach and Reverend Canon Mora, Rector of the seminary, carve the large turkeys. The American seminarians bake over a dozen pumpkin pies for everyone. American flags are proudly displayed on each side of a statue of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, Patroness of the United States. Traditional American music completes the festive atmosphere. Institute seminarians from around the world thus come to know and appreciate the American spirit which has inspired this traditional observance of giving thanks to God for His many blessings.

Holy See Approves Institute's Constitutions

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 22:01:11 PST

CONSTITUTIONS OF THE INSTITUTE OF CHRIST THE KING APPROVED BY THE HOLY SEE: CANONS AND OBLATES LIVE PROPER IDENTITY ACCORDING TO CANONICAL FORM OF LIFE.

With the Decree Saeculorum Rex signed by the President of the Commission Ecclesia Dei, Dario Cardinal Castrillón Hoyos, in the name of the Roman Pontiff, the Institute of Christ the King Sovereign Priest was elevated to the status of Pontifical Right on October 7th 2008, the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary. This favor was granted after a mature deliberation conducted according to the traditional procedures of the Roman Curia, including several positive Apostolic Visitations and the affirmative consultation of over fifty Bishops in whose Dioceses the Institute is present.

The canonical form of the Institute’s life is mainly expressed in the emphasis its constitutions put on the regular and solemn celebration of the Sacred Liturgy during the day, foremost through the solemnity of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, which is the focus of the community life, but also through the Holy Office, which, in its recited or chanted form, regulates and sanctifies the daily work. After the example of the secular Canons in the history of the Church, the Canons and Oblates of the Institute of Christ the King Sovereign Priest have the goal to spread the kingdom of Christ and to evangelize the world through the sanctification of life with the liturgical celebrations instituted by Jesus Christ the Eternal High Priest and cultivated by the Church under the guidance of the Holy Ghost. For this reason, the members of the Institute make the glorification of God in the Liturgy the focus of their fraternal unity and of their apostolic work. Both are expressed in their Choir habit, which underscores their canonical order of life. The blue color of the choir habit signifies their consecration to Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception as their main patroness and their devotion to St. Francis de Sales as the example of their desire for an ever greater charity. With these are combined the spirit of true Romanity and a faithful attachment to the Vicar of Christ on earth.

Now approved by the Holy See, the Institute’s canonical order of life as established by its constitutions under the governance of Monsignor the Prior General seals the distinctive identity of the Institute of Christ the King Sovereign Priest. The Canons and Oblates of the Institute are humbled by the fact that their very own charism and identity was approved by the highest ecclesiastical authority. They promise to live the spirit and letter of their constitutions to the fullest, well knowing that perfection is a gift of God and that all their efforts can only come to fruition if commenced, accompanied and accomplished by divine grace.

100th Anniversary of St. Francis de Sales

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 23:25:43 PST

St. Louis, MO - Over 1,000 faithful gathered in the church of St. Francis de Sales Oratory, to assist at the Solemn Pontifical Mass celebrated by His Excellency, the Most Reverend Robert J. Hermann, Administrator of the Archdiocese of St. Louis. From the powerful beginning of the “Premiere Symphonie” of Guilmant to the sweeping phrases of the Credo of the “Messe Solemnelle” of Charles Gounod to the soaring lines of the closing hymn of “To Jesus Christ Our Sovereign King,” sixty musicians filled the magnificent Gothic edifice of St. Francis de Sales church. The splendor of the sacred liturgy was adorned fittingly by the majesty and richness of the music, directed by Mr. Nick Botkins, Director of Sacred Music and Master of the Choirs at the Oratory.

His Excellency, Bishop Hermann gave a moving sermon. He invited all faithful of good will to reclaim the fullness of the sacraments. He impressed upon all present the “verticality of the architecture of the church” which corresponds so visibly with the theocentricity of the Mass.

The Holy Mass was followed by a festive gathering in the Oratory Hall, celebrating St. Francis de Sales church’s German immigrant heritage. Complete with traditional German food and beer and even a German band, the afternoon was enjoyed by hundreds of families with children of all ages who crowded the church hall. This overwhelming turnout was a testament to the thriving youthful community of faithful at the Oratory.

Tradition for Tomorrow

On this 100th Anniversary, it was also announced that St. Francis de Sales is beginning a capital campaign called “Tradition for Tomorrow.” This campaign will raise the necessary funds to restore the church of St. Francis de Sales to its former glory and ensure that it remains a true landmark of South St. Louis. More information can be found at TraditionForTomorrow.com.

See photos and read details about the event at the TraditionForTomorrow.com blog post: Where You There?

"Tradition for Tomorrow" Launches

Sun, 23 Nov 2008 14:56:04 PST

On this, the 100th anniversary of St. Francis de Sales, the campaign to restore this historic landmark to its full glory has been announced. A new Web site, TraditionForTomorrow.com, has also been launched to give information and news about the restoration, and includes a blog to record the restoration project.

St. Francis de Sales, built at the turn of the last century, is known to locals as “the Cathedral of South St. Louis” because of its elegantly-designed exterior and 300-foot spire. In July, 2005, the church building and campus were given to the Institute of Christ the King Sovereign Priest to maintain and administer the sacraments according to the Missal of 1962. The Archbishop of St. Louis, His Grace, the Most Reverend Raymond L. Burke erected the church as an Oratory of the Institute of Christ the King Sovereign Priest. Today, St. Francis de Sales Oratory serves the whole archdiocese of St. Louis and is the center of the Extraordinary Form of the Roman Rite.

Visit TraditionForTomorrow.com

Gregorian Chant Workshop

Sat, 15 Nov 2008 14:47:05 PST

Are you a member of a parish choir which sings Gregorian Chant? Are you a choir director who is starting or building a Gregorian Chant schola? Are you familiar with the basics of Chant, but wish to master the Gregorian art? Then this Chant workshop on the weekend of January 9-11 is for you.

Overview

Canon Wulfran Lebocq, center

Under the direction of Canon Wulfran Lebocq, participants will learn the fine points of the classic method of Solemses as taught by the late Dom Joseph Gajard and will sing each day at Holy Mass and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. On the final day, participants will sing at a Solemn Pontifical High Mass celebrated by His Excellency, the Most Reverend Joseph N. Perry, Auxiliary Bishop of Chicago.

About Canon Wulfran Lebocq

His Excellency, Bishop Joseph Perry

Having studied for several years with the Schola Saint Gregoire (Le Mans, France), Canon Lebocq has been serving as the Choirmaster of the schola cantorum of the Institute’s Seminary in Gricigliano since his ordination to the holy priesthood in 2003. He has participated in three Gregorian Chant CD recordings. Most recently, he directed the Institute’s schola for the November 3 All Souls Day Solemn High Requiem Mass which was broadcast on EWTN.

Details

Please see the event flyer for details about this unique opportunity!

Event Flyer (PDF file with workshop details and schedule)
Map to the Shrine of Christ the King in Chicago

A Sample from the Institute's Schola

Solemn High Requiem Mass on EWTN

Wed, 05 Nov 2008 21:47:57 PST

A Solemn High Requiem Mass was offered on All Souls Day by the members of the Institute at the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament in Hanceville, Alabama, at the kind invitation of the Poor Clare Nuns of Perpetual Adoration. The Mass was broadcast live on EWTN.

The Gregorian Chant propers were sung by seminarians from the Institute's seminary in Gricigliano, Italy, under the direction of the choirmaster, Canon Wulfran Lebocq.

The DVD of this Requiem Mass is available through our online store.

Solemn Consecration of Old St. Patrick's

Sat, 01 Nov 2008 22:38:14 PDT

After an extensive three-year restoration project, Old Saint Patrick’s Oratory in Kansas City was solemnly dedicated by His Excellency, the Most Reverend Robert W. Finn, with all of the traditional ceremonies of this venerable rite. During the sermon of the beautiful Solemn Pontifical Mass which followed, His Excellency remarked to the great number of faithful who had come from far and wide for this solemn event:

I am full of confidence as I renew today my entrustment of the Oratory to the Institute of Christ the King, for whom “doing the truth in love,” is much more than an ecclesial motto – but indeed, a dynamic interior motive of outgoing apostolic love. Through Monsignor Schmitz, I express my profound thanks to Reverend Monsignor Gilles Wach, Founder and Prior General of the Institute, for his solicitude to the Diocese, in providing this spiritual foundation for our Oratory.

Afterwards, there followed a warm reception for all.

Photos of the Consecration, Mass, and Reception
Consecration Booklet [PDF]
Press Release [PDF]

Live Mass to be Televised on November 3

Sat, 25 Oct 2008 19:50:40 PDT

On Monday, November 3, members of the Institute of Christ the King Sovereign Priest will offer another live televised Mass on EWTN.

Live streaming video of the Mass will be available online via EWTN's Web site.

Broadcast Schedule

November 3, 8:00 AM EST (Live)
November 3, 12:00 PM (Noon) EST
November 3, 6:00 PM EST
November 4, 12:00 AM (Midnight) EST

Recently, the Institute offered a televised Solemn High Mass on EWTN to commemorate the implementation of His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI's document "Summorum Pontificum." A DVD of that Mass is now available through our online store.

New Apostolates in France

Fri, 24 Oct 2008 22:08:18 PDT

The most Reverend Bishop of Grenoble has entrusted to the Institute a jewel of Gothic architecture, the Collegiate church of St. Andre, in which St. Francis de Sales has preached several times and the holy Cure of Ars was ordained to the priesthood.

Large numbers of faithful and many altar boys clothed in the blue characteristic of the Institute assisted at the inaugural Mass, which was celebrated on September 14 by the newly appointed Rector, Father Jean-Paul Trezieres.

The Institute has also been invited to serve and offer daily Mass at the magnificent church of Notre Dame de Cordeliers in the Diocese of Laval.

Photos of the New Apostolates

New Apostolate in Holy Father's Hometown

Fri, 24 Oct 2008 22:06:44 PDT

At the request of the Archbishop of Munich-Freising, the Institute now offers Holy Mass each Sunday morning in the city of Traunstein, Germany, where our Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI spent many of his younger years attending the minor seminary. He also celebrated his first Mass in a parish church of the town.

Photos of the New Apostolate

Pontifical Right for Institute and Our Sisters

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 17:19:22 PDT

View Photos of the Ceremony with Monsignor Camille Perl

With deepest gratitude to the Blessed Trinity, to Christ Our King, and His Immaculate Mother, to St. Joseph, to St. Michael the Archangel, to our patron saints, to the entire court of heaven, and with filial thankfulness to our Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI and his faithful collaborators, we have the joy to announce a very important event:

His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI

On the feast day of Our Lady, Queen of the Holy Rosary, the Vice-President of the Commission Ecclesia Dei, Very Reverend Monsignor Camille Perl, has read in our Seminary chapel the official decree by which, in the name of the Holy Father, the Institute of Christ the King Sovereign Priest was erected to the status of a Society of Apostolic Life of Pontifical Right. Also our Sisters Adorers of the Royal Heart of Jesus received the status of Pontifical Right. The Decree was signed by His Eminence Dario Cardinal Castrillon Hoyos. A Solemn Te Deum followed the reading of the Decree.

Born out of a profound union with the Holy Father in Rome and the Institute's founder and members having always lived in a continuous and unwavering spirit of faithful Romanitas, the Institute was granted the Pontifical Right after the formal time of experience and interrogation which is a traditional custom for the Holy See. Various positive Apostolic Visitations conducted by the Roman Curia and a very favorable consultation of all the Most Reverend Bishops in whose Dioceses we are invited to serve have finalized this canonical process.

After this affirmative evaluation of our spirituality and our international presence and work, the Pontifical Right is an expression of the appreciation of the service of the Institute of Christ the King by the Roman Pontiff and his collaborators to whom we are deeply obliged. The Pontifical Right will make it even easier for the Institute to conduct its service for the Church according to its constitutions and gives to Monsignor the Prior General rights and duties that are in unison with our canonial lifestyle.

View Photos of the Ceremony with Monsignor Camille Perl

BENEDICTO XVI SUMMO PONTIFICI PAX, VITA ET SALUS PERPETUA!

New Entry of Seminarians

Fri, 03 Oct 2008 12:35:23 PDT

After an opening spiritual retreat preached by Monsignor Wach, our Founder and Prior General, fourteen young men from several countries, including two from Great Britain and four from the United States, have entered our seminary in Gricigliano to begin the first year of their priestly formation. Thirteen of the newcomers are shown in the photo below. Please pray for these young men, who so much rely upon your support today in order to be your priests of tomorrow!

Successful Benefit Recital for the Shrine

Fri, 03 Oct 2008 12:04:22 PDT

The Shrine of Christ the King in Chicago welcomed a full crowd of people, including the Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Chicago and the Consul General of Germany in Chicago, who had come from far and wide as well as from the local surrounding area to attend the Benefit Recital held in honor of His Highness, Paul Duke of Oldenburg, Germany, a long time friend of our Institute, on Saturday, September 27.

After His Highness spoke about his conversion to the Catholic Faith, there followed a delightful program of sacred baroque music and of traditional spirituals sung by the widely-acclaimed tenor, Mr. Trevor Mitchell. The friendly warmth and lively conversation at the reception which followed testified to the success of this fundraising event, which is owed in large part to the generosity of our benefactors and of the volunteers who gave their time and effort.

View Photos of the Event

Online Video of Institute's Mass on EWTN

Thu, 18 Sep 2008 21:07:29 PDT

On Sunday, September 14, members of the Institute of Christ the King celebrated a Solemn High Mass at Our Lady of the Angels Monastery of the Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration in Hanceville, Alabama. The conventual Mass was broadcast live on EWTN on the anniversary of the implementation of Pope Benedict XVI's motu proprio "Summorum Pontificum."

Father Karl Lehnardt, recently appointed Spiritual Director of the Institute's Seminary, celebrated the Mass. Father Matthew Talarico, from the Shrine of Christ the King in Chicago, served as Deacon and preached the sermon. Father William Avis, from Old St. Patrick's Oratory in Kansas City, served as Subdeacon.

View the Video Online

High Quality (300k, Windows Media)
Medium Quality (100k, Windows Media)
Mass Booklet (PDF), allowing you to follow along.

Update: A DVD video of the Mass is now available for $25 from our secure online store.

Benefit Recital for Shrine of Christ the King

Sun, 07 Sep 2008 21:53:32 PDT

A descendant of Queen Victoria and Czar Alexander II and an acclaimed Chicago-born tenor will come together on Saturday, September 27, to support the restoration of the Shrine of Christ the King Sovereign Priest. Internationally acclaimed tenor Trevór Mitchell will be performing works of Sacred Baroque music and traditional Spirituals at a benefit recital, proceeds of which will be used for the restoration of the historic church building. The recital will take place at 3:00 PM inside the landmark church building on the south side of Chicago.

Paul, Duke of Oldenburg

Paul, Duke of Oldenburg will be coming from Germany to participate as the guest of honor of the event. A long-time friend and supporter of the Institute of Christ the King Sovereign Priest, His Highness is active in both the political and social arenas, promoting the cause of family values in Germany. A convert to the Catholic Faith, he will speak briefly about his experience with the beauty of the Latin Mass.

Trevór Mitchell, Tenor

Best known for his work in oratorio and early music, Trevór Mitchell is acclaimed as having "simply the most uniquely beautiful and easily produced tenor instrument most people will ever hear." Mr. Mitchell's career as a soloist has taken him across the United States as well as to Austria, Italy, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, and other countries of Europe. He is also a member of the professional nine-voice ensemble “Chicago a cappella.” He will be joined in this unique program by violinist Marty Davids, known for his expertise in early music, and pianist Terree Schofner-Emrich, who will also play period organ.

Donations for the benefit recital are gratefully received. For more information, please call the Shrine at 773-363-7409 or email desk@institute-christ-king.org. Tickets are available at $25.00 a piece.

Donation Form and Promotional Materials

Form: Participate with Your Contribution (PDF)
Music Program (PDF)
Flyer for the Event (PDF)
Press Release (PDF)

About the Shrine of Christ the King

Visit of Archbishop Burke with Photos

Tue, 02 Sep 2008 15:38:17 PDT

The Chapter meeting in Gricigliano was blessed with the visit of yet another special guest: Archbishop Raymond L. Burke, Prefect of the Supreme Tribunal of the Apostolic Signatura. After a two mile procession from Gricigliano to the Motherhouse of the female branch of the Institute, the Adorers of the Royal Heart of Jesus Christ Sovereign Priest, His Grace blessed and crowned an antique statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The Prior General of the Institute, Monsignor Gilles Wach, then renewed the Consecration of the whole Institute to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Benediction of the Most Blessed Sacrament then followed. Finally, a festive cena was held in honor of His Grace as the finale to this year’s Chapter meeting.

VIEW PHOTOS OF THE EVENT »

Visit of Cardinal Ricard with Photos

Tue, 02 Sep 2008 15:20:56 PDT

The Institute's annual Chapter meeting in Gricigliano was honored by the presence of Cardinal Jean-Pierre Ricard, Archbishop of Bordeaux, in whose archdiocese the Institute has a Mass apostolate. Cardinal Ricard is President emeritus of the National Conference of French bishops and the vice-President of the International Conference of European bishops. His Eminence assisted at the throne and preached at a Solemn High Mass. His Eminence also celebrated Holy Mass in the Extraordinary Form at the house of the Institute's Sisters. He said to the gathering of priests: "I thank you in the name of the French bishops for the good work of the priests of the Institute in the dioceses of France."

VIEW PHOTOS OF THE EVENT »

Institute to Celebrate Live Televised Mass

Sat, 30 Aug 2008 22:01:50 PDT

On Sunday, September 14, members of the Institute of Christ the King Sovereign Priest will celebrate a Solemn High Mass at Our Lady of the Angels Monastery of the Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration in Hanceville, Alabama. The conventual Mass will be broadcast live by EWTN, the Global Catholic Network, to a worldwide audience of 140 million homes, through TV, radio, and live streaming video online.

September 14th marks the first anniversary of the implementation of Pope Benedict XVI's motu proprio "Summorum Pontificum" [PDF]. The Solemn High Mass will be in commemoration of, and thanksgiving for, this pivotal document of His Holiness, which confirms that the Latin Rite in its ancient form as presented in the 1962 liturgical books of the Roman Catholic Church was never abrogated and is available to all priests and all faithful who desire it.

The live broadcast on September 14 from Our Lady of the Angels Monastery will take place at 8:00 AM Eastern Time USA, 14:00 Central European Time, 12:00 UTC. There will be a rebroadcast at 11:00 PM Central Time, 9:00 PM Pacific Time.

New Apostolate in Tucson, Arizona

Sun, 17 Aug 2008 12:47:46 PDT

The Most Reverend Bishop of Tucson, Arizona, assisted at a High Mass celebrated by Msgr. R. Michael Schmitz in the City of Tucson on Sunday, August 17. During the ceremony, Bishop Kicanas announced the coming of the Institute of Christ the King to his diocese and told the faithful that Father Richard von Menshengen will be the priest responsible for the Oratory of St. Gianna.

During the very warm reception which followed, Bishop Kicanas and Msgr. Schmitz answered questions and provided more information concerning this apostolate, as well as thanked the local clergy and laity for their dedication to the Latin Mass community.

Father von Menshengen will celebrate Holy Mass for the first time for the Oratory community on September 21, 2008.

More information about the new apostolate will be forthcoming.

Shrine of Christ the King Restoration Video

Sat, 19 Jul 2008 14:51:28 PDT

The Institute has released a new documentary video about the Shrine of Christ the King in Chicago. The video, narrated by Monsignor Michael Schmitz, explains the rich history and bright future of the magnificent church, for which funds are now being sought for its restoration. VIEW THE VIDEO

St. Francis de Sales Oratory Wins Award

Wed, 09 Jul 2008 22:56:13 PDT

Renovation efforts at St. Francis de Sales Oratory have received public recognition with the reception of the "Golden Brick Award," bestowed by the DeSales Community Housing Corporation.

The Corporation, which spun off from St. Francis de Sales Parish as a separate legal entity decades ago, gives the award to people and/or projects that have contributed positively to the Tower Grove East and Fox Park neighborhoods. Nominees may include businesses, institutions, or even individuals that have demonstrated a commitment towards improving the neighborhoods.

The project, which won the award for the Oratory this year, was the renovation of the vesting sacristy in the church building, a renovation which resulted in the replication of a chapel built by St. Louis King of France. Although this represents just one of many projects in the restoration of St. Francis de Sales church and rectory, it was considered significant, especially because the sacristy project was involved in a Papal award, the Bene Merenti, recently given to Abbe Alexander Willweber of the Institute of Christ the King Sovereign Priest.

When the Institute was first given the administration of St. Francis de Sales as an oratory three years ago, both the church and rectory — as well as adjoining schools and convent — were in serious states of disrepair. However, the church now displays most of its former glory as the "Cathedral of South St. Louis," and the rectory has undergone a thorough renovation. Although the adjoining school and convent buildings still await major updating, the work so far has greatly contributed to a general renaissance in the area. Indeed, the Fox Park Neighborhood Association regards the Oratory campus as the "anchor" of the neighborhood. Fr. Karl W. Lenhardt, Rector of the Oratory, Vice Provincial of the Institute, and Episcopal Delegate for the Implementation of the motu proprio "Summorum Pontificum" in the Archdiocese of St. Louis, received the Golden Brick Award on Wednesday, July 9, 2008, in a presentation ceremony.

Ordinations at Our Seminary with Pictures

Thu, 03 Jul 2008 15:41:37 PDT

On Monday, June 30, 2008, first-year seminarians received their cassock from Monsignor Gilles Wach; they were tonsured the following day by the Most Rev. Basil Meeking, Bishop Emeritus of Christchurch, New Zealand. Bishop Meeking also conferred minor orders the same day and ordained the Institute's subdeacons and deacons on Wednesday, July 2. On Thursday, July 3, the Most Rev. Raymond L. Burke, newly appointed Prefect of the Apostolic Signatura, ordained two priests of the Institute of Christ the King at the magnificent Chiesa dei Santi Michele e Gaetano in Florence. Following the ordinations was Solemn Benediction with the singing of the Te Deum at the seminary, presided over by His Eminence Silvano Cardinal Piovanelli, Archbishop Emeritus of Florence, who first welcomed the Institute in the Archdiocese of Florence eighteen years ago, in 1990.

In the Photo Gallery . . .

Papal Medal Bestowed upon Institute Member

Mon, 02 Jun 2008 16:03:19 PDT

On June 2, Archbishop Raymond Burke of St. Louis, conferred upon Abbé Alexander Willweber the Bene Merenti Papal Medal, an award given by the Holy Father himself for outstanding work done for Holy Mother Church. Abbé Alexander, a professional designer by trade, has been the artistic consultant for the Institute of Christ the King since his entrance as an oblate. He is not only responsible for the creative composition of the interior of St. Mary’s Oratory in Wausau, but has undertaken many other church design projects in the US, Europe, and Africa.

St. Stanislaus Oratory in Milwaukee Inaugurated

Sun, 01 Jun 2008 16:17:51 PDT

Msgr. Gilles Wach, Prior General of the Institute, officially inaugurated the Institute's new Oratory in Milwaukee, St. Stanislaus. On Sunday, June 1, he celebrated a Solemn High Mass at the new Oratory, with the assistance of Father Olivier Meney as Deacon, and Abbé Kevin Kerscher as Subdeacon. Father Meney will be overseeing the new Oratory.

5th Anniversary of St. Mary's Consecration in Wausau

Sat, 31 May 2008 16:11:02 PDT

A joyous milestone was observed on May 31 at our apostolate in Wausau, Wisconsin — the 5th anniversary of the consecration of St. Mary’s Oratory of the Immaculate Conception by the Most Rev. Raymond Burke who was at the time the bishop of La Crosse. Established in 1861, St. Mary’s is the oldest Catholic parish in Wausau. The present-day neo-Gothic church dates from 1892, while its interior was refashioned in a more contemporary style after a fire in 1953. In 1999 the Institute was given care of St. Mary’s and began the renovation of its interior in 2001, creating a replica of a late medieval chapel at the Blotenburg Castle in Bavaria. St. Mary’s Oratory is listed by authorities in the area as a must-see attraction for its exquisite artistry. Visitors come from far and wide to contemplate its beauty and pray before the statue of “Our Lady of Wausau,” an original wooden sculpture found in the Salzburg area, dating from the 1470's.

To commemorate the fifth anniversary of St. Mary’s re-consecration, Msgr. Gilles Wach offered a Solemn High Mass in the presence of the Most Rev. Jerome Listecki, Bishop of La Crosse, who was the homilist for the occasion. After Mass, His Excellency joined the superiors, clergy, and faithful of St. Mary’s at a reception commemorating the joyous occasion on this his first official visit to the Oratory.

Oblate Vestition at the Shrine

Tue, 27 May 2008 12:00:22 PDT

On Tuesday, May 27, 2008, Mr. Chad Templin and Mr. Alexander Barga received their cassocks from the Prior General of the Institute, Msgr. Gilles Wach, in the presence of His Excellency, the Most Reverend Joseph Perry, Auxiliary Bishop of Chicago, and Msgr. Michael Schmitz, Vicar General of the Institute.

The ceremony took place at the Shrine of Christ the King in Chicago.

View Images

Relevant Radio Interviews Msgr. Schmitz about Pope Benedict XVI

Thu, 01 May 2008 15:39:15 PDT

Relevant Radio interviews Msgr. Schmitz about Pope Benedict XVI during the coverage of His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI's visit to the United States in April, 2007. The interview begins at the 12:00 minute mark.

Listen to the Interview [MP3]

Pilgrimage to Lourdes

Sun, 30 Mar 2008 22:31:22 PDT

On March 29–30, 2008, the Institute of Christ the King conducted a pilgrimage to Lourdes in commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the apparitions of Our Lady there.

The superiors, seminarians, and sisters of the Institute came en masse from Gricigliano, along with many of the Institute's priests from France, led by their Provincial Superior, Abbé Benoît Jayr. They were all joined by a great number of friends and faithful from France, Ireland, Italy, and the United States.

The two days were filled with private and scheduled devotions, including the Rosary, Way of the Cross, and an impressive candle procession Saturday evening. Solemn High Masses were celebrated in the upper basilica chapel, which was filled to capacity. On Saturday, the celebrant was Vicar General of the Institute, Msgr. Michael Schmitz, while Msgr. Gilles Wach, Prior General of the Institute, offered Mass that Divine Mercy Sunday. The Rector of the Shrine, Msgr. Walter R. Rossi, greeted the pilgrims with a warm welcoming speech.

View Images

Witness of Christ to the World

Sun, 30 Mar 2008 07:02:13 PDT

Princess Alessandra Borghese, a friend of the Institute, sets an admirable example of defense without compromise of the Catholic faith at all levels of daily life. Her several books, including one on her own conversion and one on Pope Benedict XVI, are a significant medium of this witness. Alessandra Borghese's Site

Monthly Devotion to the Infant King at the Shrine

Fri, 25 Jan 2008 23:08:40 PST

The 25th of each month is a day traditionally dedicated to the Infant Jesus, a remembrance of His Incarnation and Nativity. At the Shrine of Christ the King in Chicago, the novena to the Infant Jesus is said from the 17th to the 25th of every month.

Beginning in January, on the closing day of each novena, there will be a Votive Mass of the Nativity at the Shrine at 7:00 PM, followed by Adoration and Benediction of the Most Blessed Sacrament.

Francis Cardinal George at the Shrine of Christ the King

Sat, 29 Dec 2007 23:03:01 PST

On Saturday, Decemer 29, His Eminence Francis Cardinal George, Archbishop of Chicago and President of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops came to the Shrine of Christ the King to solemnly crown the statue of the Divine Infant King.

The rare ceremony occurred during a Solemn High Mass celebrated by Msgr. R. Michael Schmitz at which His Eminence assisted. The Mass was celebrated inside the church building, which is undergoing restoration.

View Images | View Video

Traditional Latin Mass Returns to Cathedral of Mexico City

Thu, 29 Nov 2007 23:01:15 PST

On Thursday, November 29, 2007, Msgr. R. Michael Schmitz celebrated High Mass at the Metropolitan Cathedral of Mexico City, the crowning moment of a pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe. After forty years, the Mass of the Ages returned to the capital of a people who, not so long ago, heroically shed their blood for Cristo Rey.

View Images of the Mass | View Images of the Pilgrimage

Cardinal George in Special Ceremony at the Shrine of Christ the King Sovereign Priest

Mon, 26 Nov 2007 18:42:39 PST

View the Press Release

Milwaukee, the Institute's New Apostolate Location

Mon, 15 Oct 2007 22:59:09 PDT

The Most Rev. Timothy M. Dolan, Archbishop of Milwaukee, has graciously invited the Institute of Christ the King to serve the Traditional Latin Mass apostolate in his archdiocese. Priests of the Institute will be offering Sunday Mass at St. Stanislaus Church beginning in Advent.

Many thanks to His Grace, as well as to the Franciscan Fathers at St. Stanislaus.

Silver Jubilee of Monsignor Schmitz's Ordination

Wed, 10 Oct 2007 22:52:54 PDT

On October 10, 2007, Msgr. R. Michael Schmitz, Vicar General of the Institute of Christ the King and Provincial Superior for the United States, celebrated the 25th anniversary of his ordination to the Holy Priesthood.

Monsignor Schmitz was ordained in Rome on October 10, 1982, by then Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger. From the Archdiocese of Cologne, he entered the German College in Rome in 1976 and pursued his seminary and graduate studies at the Pontifical Gregorian University, earning a Doctorate in Dogmatic Theology in 1988. Subsequently, in 1992, he received a Licentiate in Canon Law from Ludwig-Maximilian University in Munich. Pope John Paul II elevated him to the rank of Chaplain of His Holiness in 1998. Monsignor Schmitz is a member of the Academy of Theology in Rome since 1988 and a chaplain of the Sovereign Order of Malta.

A friend of the founders of the Institute of Christ the King, Monsignor Gilles Wach and Father Philippe Mora, Monsignor Schmitz collaborated with the Institute as visiting professor at its seminary, eventually founding its German Province. He was incardinated into the Institute in September 2000 and was appointed its Vicar General that same year, also taking on the responsbility of Provincial Superior for the United States.

Please keep Monsignor Michael Schmitz in your prayers, especially on October 10, the day of his Ordination, and October 11, the day of his first Holy Mass.

Msgr. Wach with Pope Benedict XVI

Wed, 03 Oct 2007 23:17:23 PDT

On Wednesday, October 3, Msgr. Gilles Wach, Prior General of the Institute of Christ the King, had a very special surprise visit with the Holy Father at the General Audience! His Holiness, recognizing Msgr. Wach at the front row amidst the pilgrims awaiting his passing by, graciously stopped for a short conversation in which he commented on the Institute's large number of vocations and inquired about its latest developments. View Images

Shrine of Christ the King on EWTN Live

Wed, 26 Sep 2007 18:07:56 PDT

On Wednesday, September 26, Msgr. R. Michael Schmitz and classical architect William Heyer were interviewed on EWTN Live about the restoration of the Institute's Shrine of Christ the King Sovereign Priest in Chicago. Videos of the program can be ordered through the Institute.

Forty Hours' Devotion at Shrine of Christ the King

Sun, 16 Sep 2007 18:03:31 PDT

In thanksgiving for "Summorum Pontificum," the Holy Father's motu proprio on the ancient form of the Latin Liturgy, the Institute of Christ the King held a Forty Hours' Devotion, starting with High Mass at 7:00 PM on Friday, September 14, at the Shrine of Christ the King Sovereign Priest in Chicago.

The three days of Adoration before the Blessed Sacrament took place inside the magnificent church building on the south side of Chicago, still undergoing restoration. This marked the first time that Holy Mass was offered there since the building's closure in 2002 and threatened demolition, and the first time Mass in the traditional form of the Latin Rite since 1969 (Mass is normally offered in a chapel in the adjacent rectory).

View Images

Institute of Christ the King assists Cardinal Castrillon Hoyos at Celebration of Classical Roman Liturgy

Fri, 14 Sep 2007 22:50:34 PDT

On September 14, the day the Holy Father's motu proprio "Summorum Pontificum", came into effect, His Excellency Dario Cardinal Castrillon Hoyos, President of the Pontificial Commission Ecclesia Dei, celebrated Holy Mass according to the extraordinary use at the Sanctuary of Loreto, assisted by priests of the Institute of Christ the King. View Images

Father Lenhardt Celebrates Holy Mass at Kenrick-Glennon Seminary

Fri, 14 Sep 2007 18:01:34 PDT

On Friday, September 14, Father Karl Lenhardt, rector of St. Francis de Sales Oratory, celebrated a Solemn High Mass at Kenrick-Glennon Seminary in St. Louis. View Images

Worship Returns to South-Side Historic Landmark Once Slated for Demolition

Sat, 01 Sep 2007 18:51:53 PDT

View the Press Release

Interview with Father Michael Wiener

Mon, 30 Jul 2007 17:58:22 PDT

An interview with Father Michael Wiener in SF Gate out of San Francisco, California. Read the Interview

New Institute Apostolate in West Orange, New Jersey

Tue, 17 Jul 2007 17:44:39 PDT

With the gracious permission of the Archbishop of Newark, the Most Reverend John Myers, the Institute of Christ the King will be assigning a priest to the Latin Mass Community at St. Anthony of Padua Chapel in West Orange, Newark, New Jersey. Father Matthew Talarico, one of our newly ordained priests, has been appointed Rector of the Chapel by Archbishop Myers. Father Talarico, who has already gained good experience serving as deacon in other Institute apostolates and in carrying out many responsibilities in the Seminary will begin his work on July 17.

For the time being, Father Andreas Hellmann, Prior of the Institute’s House in Chicago, replaces Father Talarico, as well as Father Richard Munkelt, who is a priest in residence. Father Talarico will celebrate his first Sunday Masses on July 22, followed by the "First blessing" of a newly ordained priest.

Motu Proprio Summorum Pontificum

Sat, 07 Jul 2007 23:13:02 PDT

The Institute of Christ the King Sovereign Priest profoundly thanks His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI for the motu proprio "Summorum Pontificum" and promises continuous grateful prayers for his person and all his intentions.

Ad multos annos! Feliciter!

Ordinations in St. Louis in the Classical Roman Rite

Tue, 19 Jun 2007 17:55:40 PDT

View the Press Release

Institute's First Priestly Ordinations in the US

Fri, 15 Jun 2007 17:47:36 PDT

On June 15, 2007, His Grace Archbishop Raymond Burke ordained two deacons of the Institute to the priesthood. The ordination took place at the Cathedral-Basilica of St. Louis. This marks the first time that priestly ordinations of the Institute have been conducted in the United States of America. More than 1,200 attended the impressively beautiful ceremony which imperceptibly lasted 4 hours.

On the following day, Saturday, June 16, Father Matthew Talarico celebrated his first Mass at St. Francis de Sales Oratory in St. Louis. On Sunday, June 17, was the first Mass of Father William Avis, also at the Oratory.

View Images | Read "4 Hours in Heaven" | Read the Press Release

Members of the Institute in the US Receive Their Choir Habit

Thu, 14 Jun 2007 17:41:55 PDT

On the evening of the priestly Ordinations, which took place in St. Louis, June 14, 2007, an investiture ceremony followed by a Solemn High Mass was held at St. Francis de Sales Oratory, when members of the Institute of Christ the King serving in the United States solemnly received their choir habit. The habit was originally bestowed upon the Institute of Christ the King on August 31, 2006, by His Eminence, Ennio Cardinal Antonelli, Archbishop of Florence, the hierarchical superior of the Institute. View Images

Shrine of Christ the King in Chicago: A Double Revival

Fri, 04 May 2007 18:53:23 PDT

View the Press Release

Solemn Mass in the Traditional Rite at St. Louis' Cathedral Basilica

Wed, 07 Mar 2007 17:28:28 PST

On Wednesday, March 7th, a Solemn High Mass in the Traditional Latin Rite was celebrated in the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis by members of the Institute of Christ the King Sovereign Priest in commemoration of the Feast of St. Thomas Aquinas, co-patron of the Institute. The main celebrant was Father Karl Lenhardt, Rector of St. Francis de Sales Oratory (the Institute’s apostolate in St. Louis), assisted by Father Jacques Fournier as deacon, and Abbé William Avis, as sub-deacon, also members of the Oratory.

Among the several clergy of St. Louis in attendance were Bishop Robert Hermann, Auxiliary in St. Louis, Msgr. Joseph Pins, rector of the Cathedral Basilica, Msgr. Henry Breier, personal secretary and Master of Ceremonies of His Grace, Archbishop Raymond Burke, and Father Thomas Keller, professor of liturgy at Kendrick-Glennon Seminary and Master of Ceremonies of the Cathedral.

The great beauty of the Solemn High Mass was enhanced by the participation of the Choir of the Cathedral Basilica, under the direction of organist and Choir Master Dr. John Romeri, with music by renaissance composers Orlando Gibbons, Thomas Tallis, William Byrd, Josquin de Près, Tomás Luis de Victoria, as well as by former director of the Sistine Chapel, Monsignor Bartolucci.

Five hundred faithful were in attendance at this event, which was the first Solemn Mass at the high altar of the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis in forty two years.

View Video | Read Father Lenhardt's Sermon

Midnight Mass from St. Joseph's Oratory on Relevant Radio

Tue, 26 Dec 2006 19:27:43 PST

Midnight Mass, at the Institute's Oratory in Green Bay, Wisconsin, St. Joseph's Oratory, was broadcast on the US Catholic radio network Relevant Radio.

Fox News Reports on the Traditional Latin Mass

Sun, 24 Dec 2006 19:29:37 PST

The popular cable news channel Fox aired a piece on the Traditional Latin Mass on Christmas Day, during Fox Report. The segment commented on the growth of the Traditional Latin Mass, focusing on the Institute's Shrine of Christ the King in Chicago. The same piece was broadcast on local Fox channels in Chicago and St. Louis. View the Video Clip

Archbishop Burke Celebrates Pontifical High Mass at St. Francis de Sales

Sun, 16 Jul 2006 19:24:34 PDT

A Pontifical High Mass in commemoration of the first anniversary of the canonical erection of St. Francis de Sales Oratory was celebrated by the Most Reverend Raymond L. Burke, Archbishop of St. Louis, on Sunday, July 16. On this occasion, His Grace also solemnly installed a relic of St. Prosper at the side altar of Our Lady. St. Prosper, a fifth century saint, coined the phrase "Lex Orandi, Lex Credendi" meaning "Pray as you believe". This was the closing Mass of the National Convention of the Latin Liturgy Association, which took place at St. Francis de Sales Oratory that weekend. View Images

2006 Ordinations at the Institute's Seminary

Wed, 05 Jul 2006 19:17:08 PDT

On Friday, June 30 was the "Vestition," that is when first year seminarians receive their cassock; on Saturday, July 1 was the conferring of the tonsure by His Excellency Bishop Joseph N. Perry, Auxiliary Bishop of Chicago; on Sunday, July 2, was the conferring of minor orders by His Excellency Bishop Mathieu Madega, of Port-Gentil, Gabon; on Monday, July 3, at 4:30 PM was the ordination of deacons and subdeacons by His Excellency Bishop Luciano Giovanetti, Bishop of Fiesole, Italy; and on Tuesday, July 4 at 4:30 PM, priestly ordination was conferred by His Grace Archbishop Raymond L. Burke of St. Louis. On Wednesday, July 5 the solemn hymn Te Deum was sung in thanksgiving.

View Images: Tonsure | Minor Orders | Diaconate and Subdiaconate | Priesthood.

Chicago Landmark Church Receives New Name and New Life

Mon, 26 Jun 2006 18:48:51 PDT

View the Press Release

Institute in Chicago Receives Decree of Erection as Shrine

Fri, 23 Jun 2006 12:45:27 PDT

His Eminence Francis Cardinal George, on the Feast of the Sacred Heart, June 23, 2006, issued the official decree of erection of the Institute’s church in Chicago as the Shrine of Christ the King Sovereign Priest. We are very grateful to His Eminence for allowing this Shrine, the first exclusively dedicated to the Traditional Latin Mass worldwide. The decree includes express permission for the celebration of all the Sacraments in the Traditional Rite, as well as the keeping of registers.

Our First Corpus Christi Procession in Chicago

Sun, 18 Jun 2006 18:33:10 PDT

On Sunday, June 18, on the External Solemnity of Corpus Christi, was held the first Solemn Procession in the Institute's apostolate in Chicago. It was a very special occasion, as it was not only the first procession, but also the first use of our still-gutted church since the Institute of Christ the King arrived in Chicago. The procession commenced from the basement chapel in the priory building, where Mass is currently offered, from where Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament was solemnly carried to the street and into the church for a very moving Benediction. View Images

10th Annual Latin Mass Seminar in Rockford

Sat, 27 May 2006 18:23:22 PDT

The 10th Annual Spring Seminar of the Latin Mass Community of Rockford, Illinois, took place on Friday, May 26, and Saturday, May 27, at St. Mary's Oratory of the Institute of Christ the King. With a series of talks by Monsignor Michael Schmitz and several opportunities for discussions, the event closed with a banquet in honor of this year's award winner, Mr. John Blewett, Managing Editor of The Latin Mass magazine. On the following Sunday, there was a luncheon commemorating the 25th Anniversary of the Ordination of Father Brian Bovee, rector of the Institute's St. Mary Oratory in Rockford.

Monsignor R. Michael Schmitz on Relevant Radio

Mon, 22 May 2006 18:28:23 PDT

Msgr. R. Michael Schmitz, Vicar General of the Institute of Christ the King Sovereign Priest, was interviewed on Relevant Radio's Morning Air program on Monday, May 22. On the same day, Monsignor Schmitz also celebrated Holy Mass at the radio station's new chapel. This Mass was later broadcast during the Catholic radio network's regular broadcast time of daily Mass, at 8:30 PM CST.

Listen to the Interview [MP3]

Dr. Alice von Hildebrand at Our US Headquarters

Sat, 06 May 2006 18:25:55 PDT

On Saturday, May 6, Dr. Alice von Hildebrand, a long-time friend of the Institute of Christ the King, gave a conference at the Institute's headquarters in Chicago on the true role of women in society and the Church. The large crowd of attendees from not only the greater Chicago area, but from in- and out-of-state, were treated to a thought-provoking and entertaining analysis of certain currents of thought on the nature of women. A reception and Holy Hour completed the afternoon, on this First Saturday of the "Month of Mary," Our Lady. CDs of Dr. von Hildebrand's talk are available from St. Joseph Radio, P.O. Box 2983, Orange, CA 92859, 714-744-0336.

Interview with Msgr. Schmitz in "The Wanderer"

Tue, 04 Apr 2006 18:19:16 PDT

A three-part interview with Msgr. Michael Schmitz was conducted by Catholic journalist Brian Mershon and recently appeared in The Wanderer. The interview is available online in three parts: Part 1, Part 2, Part 3.

Monsignor Schmitz at Una Voce Columbus

Sat, 01 Apr 2006 18:17:06 PST

On Saturday, April 1, 2006, Monsignor R. Michael Schmitz preached at a Lenten Retreat Day organized by Una Voce Columbus at Holy Family Church.

Benefit Concert to Aid the Institute’s Mission in Gabon

Fri, 10 Feb 2006 18:14:12 PST

On Friday, February 10, 2006, at 7:00 pm there was a Benefit Concert of contemporary jazz in the Meyer Theatre in Green Bay, Wisconsin, to benefit the African missions of the Institute of Christ the King Sovereign Priest. This concert, sponsored by the faithful of St. Joseph’s Oratory in Green Bay, featured Richard Davis, symphonic string bassist and jazz musician from Madison, and Nadi Qamar, member of St. Joseph’s Oratory. Proceeds from this concert will go to help build a school at the Institute’s mission in Mayumba, Gabon. Those wishing to contribute may contact Father Jean-Marie Moreau at (920) 437-9660 or use our Donate page.

New Apostolate in Santa Clara, California

Tue, 03 Jan 2006 12:17:17 PST

On the Feast of the Epiphany, the Institute of Christ the King Sovereign Priest was charged with a new apostolate in California by the gracious invitation of His Excellency, the Most Reverend Patrick J. McGrath, Bishop of San Jose. The Chapel of the Mother of Perpetual Help, now granted the status of an Oratory, will be functioning under Father Michael Wiener, Rector, who is also Episcopal Delegate for the Rite of 1962 in the Diocese of Oakland. Further details are found in this letter from Monsignor R. Michael Schmitz to the faithful of Our Mother of Perpetual Help Oratory.

Traditional Christmas Midnight Mass on National Radio

Sun, 25 Dec 2005 12:37:44 PST

On Christmas, the U.S. Catholic radio network Relevant Radio provided live transmission of the Midnight Mass from St. Joseph’s Oratory, the Institute of Christ the King’s apostolate in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

Confirmations in Oakland, California

Sat, 10 Dec 2005 12:20:06 PST

On December 10, 2005, thirty-three young faithful of the Institute's apostolate in Oakland, California, received the sacrament of Confirmation from His Excellency Bishop Allen H. Vigneron, who offered a Pontifical Mass following the conferral. View Images

Confirmations in Rockford, Illinois

Fri, 02 Dec 2005 12:35:48 PST

On December 2, 2005, His Excellency Bishop Thomas G. Doran conferred the sacrament of Confirmation on 144 faithful of St. Mary's Oratory in Rockford, Illinois.

Vocations at the Sisters Adorers of the Royal Heart

Mon, 31 Oct 2005 12:17:58 PST

On October 31, 2005, His Eminence Ennio Cardinal Antonelli, Metropolitan Archbishop of Florence, presided over the clothing of Miss Anne-Charlotte d'Aprigny, now Sister Charlotte-Marie de Sales, at the Institute's headquarters in Gricigliano, Italy. Present at the ceremony, at which also were received three postulants, was His Eminence Moussa Cardinal Daoud, Prefect for the Congregation of the Oriental Churches.

Confirmations at St. Francis de Sales

Sat, 15 Oct 2005 12:09:25 PDT

On Saturday, October 15, 2005, Archbishop Raymond L. Burke conferred the Sacrament of Confirmation on thirty-four candidates at St. Francis de Sales Oratory in St. Louis. It was the occasion of His Grace's first official visit to the Oratory. Images of the event are available, and a DVD may be purchased.

Institute Now in Kansas City

Sun, 09 Oct 2005 12:11:28 PDT

Kansas City, Missouri, now has a daily Traditional Latin Mass. The Kansas City Latin Mass Community has been assigned a priest of the Institute of Christ the King through the gracious invitation of the Most Rev. Robert W. Finn, Bishop of Kansas City-St. Joseph. On October 9, 2005 the Institute’s inaugural Mass was celebrated by Father Denis Buchholz, pro-rector of the apostolate in Kansas City, who was introduced by Msgr. Michael Schmitz, Vicar General of the Institute, and welcomed by the Most Reverend Bishop of Kansas City-St. Joseph. Temporarily functioning at Our Lady of Sorrows Church, the apostolate will be moved to Old St. Patrick once needed renovations are completed. The task of restoring the historic church building, dating of 1874, has only just begun.

St. Francis de Sales Oratory in St. Louis is Established

Fri, 01 Jul 2005 12:03:40 PDT

Upon the restructuring of the South City Deanery of St. Louis, Missouri, Archbishop Raymond L. Burke has assigned the church of St. Francis de Sales, known as the "Cathedral of South St. Louis,” to the care of the Institute of Christ the King, establishing it as an Oratory. Since January 2005 the Institute has had pastoral charge of the Latin Mass Apostolate of St. Louis, located at St. Agatha’s Church, which, as of July 1, 2005, is now transferred to St. Francis de Sales Oratory. Besides administering the sacraments and attending to the needs of the faithful of the Oratory, the Institute will operate its pre-seminary program from this location, where candidates from the United States will come for the first steps in their formation before entering our International Seminary at the Institute’s motherhouse in Gricigliano, Italy.

Read the Archbishop's Letter | Read the Institute's Letter

Msgr. Gilles Wach at Corpus Christi Procession, Oakland

Sun, 29 May 2005 11:26:02 PDT

On Sunday, May 29, 2005, Msgr. Gilles Wach, Superior of the Institute of Christ the King, celebrated Mass on the Feast of Corpus Christi at St. Margaret Mary's Church in Oakland and led the procession through the streets of the neighborhood. View Images

Msgr. Schmitz's Interview with Ignatius Press

Sun, 01 May 2005 11:36:54 PDT

Msgr. Michael Schmitz's interview about our Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI is available on the Ignatius Press' Web site: "The Pope and the Monsignor: An Interview with Monsignor R. Michael Schmitz".

Msgr. Schmitz on EWTN

Fri, 25 Mar 2005 11:49:27 PST

On May 25, 2005, Msgr. Michael Schmitz was interviewed on EWTN Live, the flagship show of EWTN, the Global Catholic Network.

Ordinations at Our Seminary

Mon, 07 Mar 2005 11:53:07 PST

On the Feast of Sts. Peter and Paul, June 29, 2005, the Most Rev. Raymond Burke, Archbishop of St. Louis, ordained three priests of the Institute of Christ the King Sovereign Priest, at our International Seminary in Gricigliano, Italy. Ordained were Fathers Florent Guimbretière, Gilles Guitard, and Vincent Thomas.

View Images of: Ordinations | First Masses