Requiem Mass for Robert Monahan

Yesterday a large congregation of the faithful was present at St. Mary’s Church, Norwalk for the Solemn Requiem Mass for Robert James Monahan. Fr. Paul Check was the celebrant. As member of our society, Robert was an indefatigable supporter of the traditional Mass and of the ongoing restoration of the church of St. Mary’s. It was his wish to be buried according to the Extraordinary Form of the Roman Rite. However, I don’t think even Robert could have imagined the splendor with which his Requiem Mass was celebrated.

About twenty-five acolytes served the Mass, including many students from Anchor Academy, the independent Catholic school to which Robert was a major benefactor.

David Hughes conducted the choirs of St. Mary’s in the Requiem Mass of Tomas Luis de Victoria

During the proclamation of the Gospel, the faithful hold lighted hand-candles, a symbol of Baptism.

Ecce Agnus Dei

Before the body is borne out of the church, Fr. Check circles the catafalque twice, first to sprinkle it with holy water, and then to incense it.