Since the National Shrine’s conception, its liturgical life has been graced with objects of special significance. From the Shahan Chalice gifted in 1917 to the Papal Golden Rose bestowed by Pope Benedict XVI in 2008, each of these artifacts provide tangible markers of key events in the National Shrine’s history. As the centenary year of the National Shrine’s first public Mass comes to a close, we invite you to learn more about these artifacts and their roles in the story of America’s Catholic Church.
The Shahan Chalice
The oldest chalice belonging to the Shrine is known as the Shahan Chalice. Crafted by Jenkins & Jenkins of Baltimore in 1917, it is made of 14K gold and contains a staggering 42 diamonds inlaid along the base and outlining the cross. The chalice has an inscription which reads: “National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, Catholic University, Washington, D.C. Its First Chalice, Dec. 8th 1917, Bishop Shahan, Laus Deo et Maria.”
The Kilmallock Chalice
Modeled after an early 17th-century chalice of the Dominican Priory in Limerick, Ireland, the Kilmallock Chalice was gifted to the Shrine in 1928 by the Ladies Auxiliary to the Ancient Order of Hibernians (LAAOH.) This chalice is studded with 19 green tourmalines and decorated with the Celtic knot, interlaced shamrocks, and cherubs. The base is divided into eight sections representing different aspects of Irish history. The front panel portrays a cross, while three of the panels contain medallions of St. Patrick, St. Brigid, and St. Colmcille, and the remaining four showcase the emblems of the ancient provinces of Ireland: Ulster, Munster, Leinster, and Connaught. The chalice is inscribed with the words: “Presented to the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, for use at the Altar of Saint Brigid, as an enduring memorial to the noble service by the Nuns of the Battlefield, Anno 1928.”
The Shahan Crosier
Presented to Bishop Shahan on the day of his episcopal ordination, the Shahan crosier has been used by a member of the episcopacy at every significant Shrine event since. The inscription on the crosier reads: “Presented to the Right Reverend Thomas J. Shahan, D.D., by the Ladies Auxiliary to the AOH, November 15, 1914.”
The Papal Golden Rose
During his visit on April 16, 2008, Pope Benedict XVI gifted the National Shrine with a Papal Golden Rose as a symbol of papal affection, inspired by Isaiah 11:1:
“But a shoot shall sprout from the stump of Jesse,
and from his roots a bud shall blossom.”
The Basilica’s Golden Rose is the only papal rose made through the combined efforts of two artists; the metal rose was crafted by a metalsmith known as B.P. and the wooden base was hand-carved by Samantha Jovenitti.
The Benedict XVI Chalice
Made of hammered brass with a gold-plated finish, the Benedict XVI Chalice features Pope Benedict XVI’s coat of arms on its base. Its simple and elegant form was designed by Baker Liturgical Art to complement the chalice that was made by Carlo Magno for use at the Mass celebrated by Pope Benedict XVI at the Nationals Stadium on April 17, 2008.
Sources:
Rohling, Geraldine M., PhD, MAEd. The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception: Guide and Tour Book. Washington, D.C.: Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, 2018.
Rohling, Geraldine M., PhD, MAEd. Jubilee 2009. Washington, D.C.: Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, 2009.