SSCM First Graders on a Unique Behind-the-Scenes Tour

Rev. Vincent Schifano, better known to the students of Deer Park‘s Saints Cyril and Methodius School as “Father Vinny” took some valuable time out of his daily schedule to give SSCM first graders a “behind-the-scenes” look at the church, including an excellent overview of the items priests use when they say Mass.

One of the most beautiful things Father Vinny showed the students was the chalice he received from his parents when he was ordained 15 years ago. Years later, when his parents passed away, Father Vinny had his mother’s diamond engagement ring and his father’s wedding band welded into the chalice to remember their love and support as he entered the priesthood. He uses this chalice only for special Masses, such as Christmas Day.
Father Vinny also showed the youngsters all of the different types of clothing a priest wears to celebrate various services. He showed students the wine and the hosts that are blessed for the Eucharist and he took them behind the altar into a room where their vestments are kept. The children enjoyed getting a hands-on overview where they could pass around the various vessels used and have an up-close look at the vestments used during the Mass. Many thanks to Father Vinny for a special tour and for sharing such beautiful insight into all that goes into bringing a Mass to fruition.