On Monday, October 2, 2017, Most Reverend Bishop Michael Sis of the San Angelo Diocese conducted the blessing and dedication ceremony of St. Joseph's Adoration Chapel located in the former "Confirmation Room" of St. Mary's Parish Center, Ballinger, Texas.  Co-celebrant Pastor Yesu Mulakaleti, Deacon David Workman and several visiting priests from the San Angelo deanery, participated in the momentous ceremony.  Approximately 75 parishioners and visitors attended the ceremony.

     During the dedication ceremony, Bishop Sis blessed the altar located in the chapel with Holy Chrism Oil, just like the one used for Confirmation ceremonies and Blessing of the Sick.  As of October 2nd, the altar and the Adoration Chapel can be used for the Eucharistic Celebration, just like the altar located inside St. Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church. 

     Following the dedication ceremony, Bishop Sis and all the attendees were treated to a reception at St. Mary's Parish Center.

     St. Joseph's Adoration Chapel is the inspirational brainchild of St. Mary Star of the Sea's Pastor, Father Yesu Mulakaleti.  With the help of loving and dedicated volunteers from St. Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church, the Adoration Chapel came to fruition.  St. Joseph's Adoration Chapel's name was inspired by Bishop Sis himself.  As of October 3, 2017, the Adoration Chapel has been opened between the hours of 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Mondays through Fridays.

     Since the opening of St. Joseph's Adoration Chapel, visitors have included members from neighboring parishes, as well as visitors that practice their faith in other denominational churches.  "All are welcome in this place!"

     St. Mary Star of the Sea continues to solicit assistance from all Catholics from Ballinger and the surrounding areas to help ensure that the Adoration Chapel can continue to remain open during the designated hours.  For more information, contact Spiritual Chairperson Fran Havlak through St. Mary's office at (325)365-2687.