Periodically, I’ve noticed that other Catholic websites have given a Bronx cheer or two to the modern tabernacle. (The good folks over at Holy Whapping are giving a whapping to a few right now.) Most of these boxes are, if not just unattractive, downright ugly.

Well, forget a Bronx cheer. How about a Queens raspberry?

My nominee for ickiest tabernacle is right in my own backyard, at Immaculate Conception Center, in Douglaston, Queens. This pastoral center used to be the seminary for the diocese; now it is used primarily for retreats, Marriage Encounters, diocesan meetings and conferences. It’s a wonderful resource. But it’s got one cringe-inducing tabernacle.

I spent many a morning on retreat during my diaconate formation, on my knees, in the chapel, praying before that ball.

I usually ended up leaving after a short while to go back to my room. I got more inspiration from linoleum and cinderblock.

Photo: by David Morrison, Sed Contra