The Reimagined Apse
A Heavenly Vision
The Sanctuary Dome radiates a golden glow, symbolizing Heaven. At its center, Christ stands on the earth as Salvator Mundi, (Savior of the World) surrounded by angels in adoration.
The ceiling of the sanctuary shows the Holy Spirit descending from Heaven, surrounded by stars and crosses on a rich field of blue, reminiscent of the mausoleum of Galla Placidia in Ravenna, Italy.
This celestial scene invites reflection and reverence, drawing the faithful into a deeper connection with the divine.
Symbolic Motifs
Christ’s Crucifixion in Bloom
The upper walls of the sanctuary are adorned with three blooming flowers, each symbolizing aspects of Christ’s Crucifixion. The Thistle, with its thorny appearance, represents His Crown of Thorns. The Red Anemone, reminiscent of Christ’s Blood, is believed to have blossomed at Golgotha. The Passionflower, named for Christ’s Passion, features ten petals for the apostles, five anthers for His Wounds, and three stigma for the Trinity, all encircling a crown-like nectary.
These floral motifs serve as a constant reminder of the sacrifice and love embodied in Christ’s Passion, enriching the spiritual experience of all who enter the sanctuary.
Below this section between the windows are two medallions depicting the symbols of the Alpha and Omega. Behind the tabernacle in the ambulatory, the diaper pattern depicts crosses on a red field symbolic of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in keeping with many iterations of decorative design there through the years.
Alpha and Omega Medallions
The Eternal Symbols
Between the windows of the sanctuary, two medallions stand as powerful symbols of the Alpha and Omega. These medallions represent the beginning and the end, encapsulating the eternal nature of Christ. The Alpha, the first letter of the Greek alphabet, signifies the inception of all things, while the Omega, the last letter, denotes the culmination. Together, they remind us of Christ’s omnipresence and His role as the eternal shepherd guiding us through the journey of life. These symbols are a testament to the timeless nature of our faith and the everlasting promise of salvation.