Altar
The
sanctuary is straight ahead from the entrance, slightly raised,
and visible even before you enter the church. The screen behind
it is a most striking feature, back-lit by the sun pouring down
from concealed windows above it. The cross is surrounded by
light. Light is focussed on the altar.
The
altar is round, as is the sanctuary, making it easy for the
faithful to gather round for the sacrifice of the Mass.
The
chairs in the church are arranged in a semi-circle around the
altar, inviting the faithful to play a full part in offering
the sacrifice. It is accessible on every side, so different
from the old sanctuaries to which we have become accustomed
which separated the celebrant from the people.
Screen
The
screen is featured in many of the photos
which illustrate this tour, the screen owes its history to the
rood screens of old which once separated priest from people.
This screen separates the area of assembly and sacrifice from
the Blessed Sacrament altar, an area for private prayer. The
screen is translucent. It reflects and transmits light onto
the altar. Above the altar it displays the symbol of the cross.
The cross no longer bears the crucified Christ, symbolising
Christ's triumph over death.
The screen also has on it a number of readings and prayers, the texts of which are given below:
| Left panel Christ yesterday and today the beginning and the end Alpha and Omega all time belongs to him and all the ages to him be glory and power through every age for ever. Amen |
Centre left panel My House shall be called a House of Prayer Come Stay Pray Love The Light of Christ has come into the world The Word became flesh and lives among us. |
| Centre right panel Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord God, the Almighty He was, He is and He is to come Upon this rock I will build my Church Jesus led them up the hill to pray |
Right panel He looks in at the window, he peers through the lattice. My beloved lifts up his voice, he says to me, 'come then, my love, my lovely one, come'. |
