Msgr. Michael Bransfield, the long-time rector of Washington, D.C.’s Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception was named a few days ago to become the new bishop of the diocese of Wheeling and Charleston: that is to say, all of West Virginia.
A friend who grew up there warns that the place takes some getting used to: “Do you think he has an opinion on using moonshine for altar wine — yet? I don’t remember seeing that at the Shrine!”
Anyway, we here at Catholic Light wish the Bishop-elect all the best.
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The impression I’ve long had is that Bransfield is a good manager. The Shrine is always well-staffed, clean (some would say immaculate), and has lots of things going on. Masses I’ve attended there are always reverent and the homilies doctrinally sound. I for one don’t know details of the Shrine’s finances, but I have never heard of it having any financial issues.
If he produces similar results in Wheeling-Charleston, Bransfield probably won’t be there long; he’ll get promoted pretty fast.
The other question he’d have to confront about sacramental material in West Virginia, of course, would be whether Communion hosts can be made from chewing tobacco. I’ve never seen that at the Shrine, either. :+)
Or: does chaw violate the Communion fast? If not, what’s the proper way to dispose of it during Mass?
They have spittoons built into the pews, of course!
Spitoons built into the pews and a special altar boy to follow the priest aroung with an empty coffee can. I suppose the bishop’s cathedra has rockers and his mitre is made of felt with a wide brim.
I believe the Bishop’s chasuble also has a large number 3 stitched on the back.
Now, now. I’ve been to Mass in the (co-)cathedral in Charleston, WV, and there are no spittoons in the pews. They’re located in the vestibule, so you can dispose of your chaw on the way in.