Altar


The Narthex The Priest's Plaque The War Plaque Body of the Church Ceiling Windows Stations of the Cross Benches Font Our Lady Statue St Joseph & St Patrick Statue of St Anne The Lady Chapel Stained Glass Windows Painting Sacred Heart Statue The Baptistry Font Sanctuary The Crucifix The Altar The Nun's Rooms The Choir Gallery St. Joseph's Bell


Last Updated 30 September 2006

The Altar

The present altar was installed in 1990 during the restoration. Its wooden front matches that of the lectern, the Lady Chapel altar front, and the baptismal font which came into use at the time.

The top of the altar was so small that Fr Nunan had to arrange for an "extension" to provide more room during Mass and services.

Canon Barr's choice of a small altar was a contrast to the larger altars of former times.

Prior to the 1960's the altar was arranged agaistt he rear wall to allow Mass in the old Tridentine style with the priest facing away from the people.

After Vatican II the altar, still considerably large, was installed in the middle of the sanctuary to permit sufficient access for the priest to celebrate Mass behind it.

A simple wooden framework was retained against the back wall to hold the tabernacle and large candles, affectionately known as "the big six".

This was removed in 1990 during the renovations.