St. Joseph RC Cathedral - Table of Contents
Sanctuary - St. Joseph RC Cathedral
AKA St. Joseph's RC Old Cathedral
50 Franklin St., Buffalo, NY
2005
Photos
St.
Joseph RC Cathedral - Official Website |
Definition of sanctuary: The immediate area around the principal altar
The sanctuary, highlighting the altar, constitutes the central focus of the cathedral's cruciform, or cross-shaped, design. The sanctuary walls are reminiscent of the choir screens in European cathedrals.
The windows in the transept and sanctuary were crafted in Munich, Germany.
Behind the altar are three windows depicting the Nativity, the Crucifixion andthe Resurrection. These were once believed to be displayed in the Munich Exposition of 1850 and donated to the church by King Ludwig I.Sadly this legend is just a story as King Ludwig I abdicated in 1848, there was no Exposition in Munich in 1850 and it is documented that the windows were purchased for $5,000.
Rose window and three lancet windows in sanctuary. Gothic Revival arcaded columns separate the center aisle from the side aisles. Ribbed vaulting with decorative bosses
Ribbed vaulting with decorative bosses
Decorative plaster bosses
· Rose window encircles a pelican, mystical symbol of the Eucharist
Three lancet windows: Birth of Jesus, the Crucifixion, and the Resurrection
Detail of the Birth of Jesus window: angels, three Magi, Mary, Joseph, and Jesus
Detail of the Crucifixion window
Detail of the Resurrection window
Arcaded Gothic blind arches with trefoils within. Polished marble floor
Arcaded Gothic blind arches with trefoils within Bishop's chair Marble altar Polished marble floor