Bishop John Noonan blessed renovations to the sanctuary of Holy Family Parish, Orlando, Sept. 27, 2025. The sanctuary facelift includes removal of outdated structures, addition of travertine stone, behind the altar, and more.

A new tabernacle with the image of the sacred heart on the door graces the wall under the original stained glass depiction of the crucifixion and is lit from behind drawing attention to the Lord’s presence. The addition of a partial wall along the front of the altar space breaks for steps at the center, leading one’s eye to the altar.

A space was carved out of the altar table to deposit the relics of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, and Blessed Stanley Rother. Both are American born. St. Elizabeth Ann Seton established the first parochial school in the United States and Blessed Rother was the first martyr from the United States and the first U.S.-born priest to be beatified.

Father Martin Nguyen said he hoped to place relics representative of the parish’s mission — “witness” “to the Catholic faith and to foster Catholic education.”

Renovations were completed in time for the parish’s 50th anniversary celebration, Oct. 12. Following will be a picnic with various types of dishes celebrating the multicultural face of Holy Family Parish. Construction of a new rectory will be completed by the end of October.