By Mary Beth Marino

History has been preserved in the traditional type structure viewed at the rebuilt Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.

In addition to the “old” features are newly revised and updated furnishings exhibited in a traditional style.

One such feature that catches the eye upon entering the Church, is the 12 ornate, but delicate chandeliers that create a soft effect. They also lend a nice effect to the large ceiling, stained glass aisle windows, and the paintings of the twelve apostles on the ceiling.

PAINTINGS

The tre-foil (clover design) paintings are replicas of the twelve apostles and were painted by artist, Henry Barnes of Atlanta. Each apostle’s life was studied in depth so that the best representation might be captured.

In each painting, the symbol displayed at the bottom of each intricate scroll denotes both the life and death symbols that reflect the apostle’s martyred life. This could be exemplified in the painting of the apostle, James. According to tradition, James was kicked out of the temple mid-air. He fell to the ground but managed to find enough strength to stand. He prayed and implored God to forgive his enemies. The people stoned him, and decapitated him at the age of 96. In this particular painting, you will note the scimitar knife centered between two flaying knives which is the knife that was used to behead James. Thus, each succeeding painting displays some aspect of the apostle’s life and in many cases, his death. The style chosen to depict the saints would stimulate questions for the viewer wishing to study the lives of the saints.

Henry Barnes studied under the renowned artists, Constitin and Roman Chatov of Atlanta for six years. He also painted in Paris, France at La Grand Chaumiere under the direction of Yves Brayer. His work also includes portrait and landscape paintings.

PIPE ORGAN

Another distinctive feature which adds a dramatic effect to the Church is the new pipe organ. The previous organ was rare and could not be duplicated. But the choir loft houses a new shiny organ consisting of 2,947 pipes. The organ was purchased at the M.P. Moller Company located in Hagerstown, Maryland. The console has three manuals (keyboards). The custom-built instrument is specifically designed to meet the needs of the acoustics and depth of the Church. Then a skilled crew reviews liturgical needs and tonal qualities.

There is a loud and soft adjustment of pipes that fits the environment and is tested and refined until tonal qualities are precisely met.

The Moller Company has previously been recognized for expertise in the installation of pipe organs at the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington D.C., the Naval Academy chapel in Annapolis and Orchestra Hall in Chicago.

All the pipes are voiced in Maryland and then skilled crews add the “tone-fitting process” which brings the organ to the fullest flower of tone.

THE STATIONS OF THE CROSS

The unique Stations of the Cross exemplify the stages of Christ on the way to his crucifixion. The stations are painted in traditional style with delicate custom frames offsetting the pictorial display. They hang six feet tall by four feet wide. The simple but effective style was chosen to reflect the sorrowful mysteries, but not detract from the celebration of the liturgy. The artist was L. Jambour and the stations had previously hung in the Franciscan Novitiate House in New Jersey. When the house was relocated, Father Thomas Giblin, former pastor at the Shrine in Atlanta, requested they be donated to the Church. The Franciscan Provincial, Father Alban Maguire, gave his permission and the paintings were shipped.

The main altar of the Church has been restored adding a new tabernacle. Both side altars remain the same and compliment the design throughout the Church. The famous Pieta replica is standing in the same place and was salvaged from the destructive fire that was responsible for the rebuilding of the Church.

The architect designed the cupola (dome) situated on the left and right side of the main altar with the largest cupola stationed above the tabernacle.

Another small feature is the built-in sound system panel located on the right side of the Blessed Virgin altar. This panel simplifies lowering or elevating the sound system to meet the needs of the liturgy. It also houses a new light control panel which can raise the lights to the strongest brilliance, or dim them for a soft-flow effect.

The overall interior designs create a traditional yet unique environment.

Obviously, this tastefully adorned, historic Church will give service and inspiration to all who seek her out.