St. Paul’s Sanctuary Cross

Artist: Lynne Mcllvride November 2005

 

 

       

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This exquisite piece is a wooden cross-shaped box with an openwork top, enclosing a delicate glass panel within. In the heart of this box, a circular patch of hand-sewn beadwork is intricately arranged to form a cross, dividing it into four quarters. Extending outward from the center are a collection of small sculptures crafted from sturdy watercolor paper, gracefully creating the arms of the cross. These arms are meticulously designed to be of equal length, forming what is known as a Greek cross.

 

Both the paper sculptures and the background box are adorned with acrylic paint, while the frame is luxuriously covered in a layer of 24-carat gold leaf along with acrylic paint. The back of the cross is also treated with acrylic paint for the delight of the choir.

 

Lynne’s artistic vision took into account the church’s architectural elements and its stained glass windows. The rectangular arms of the cross, with their pointed arches, resonate with the surrounding walls, creating a harmonious visual connection. Some of the shapes within the artwork mirror those found in the stained glass windows, thus blending seamlessly with the church’s environment.

 

The cross itself serves as a powerful symbol of Christ’s crucifixion, a notion reinforced by the inclusion of a liturgical passage that runs along the arms of the cross. This passage, traditionally sung before communion, invokes: “Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world, have mercy on us. Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world, grant us peace.” This choice of liturgy holds particular significance as the cross is prominently displayed above the communion table. The repetitive and meditative nature of this liturgy aligns beautifully with Lynne’s fondness for visual repetition and patterns, creating a harmonious synergy between the written words and their audible recitation.

 

The allure of this artwork lies in its hidden details, reminiscent of the beauty found in fleeting glimpses of the great Churches and Cathedrals of the world. It celebrates the idea that there is always more beauty to be discovered, that the accumulation of intricate details hints at a profound richness and joy, even when every detail cannot be clearly discerned. Certain details on the cross can only be fully appreciated under specific lighting conditions and from particular angles, adding an element of intrigue and wonder to this remarkable creation.

 

This cross was blessed during the 10:30 am Service on Sunday November 13, 2005. The cross was commissioned by the Rector and Wardens and financed by gifts given to the St. Paul’s Memorial Fund. Thus, it is in memory of those “we love but see no longer.”

 

The Cross underwent maintenance and cleaning in preparation for the service on Sunday, September 10th, 2023, when St. Paul’s celebrated Holy Cross Sunday. During this special occasion, the Sanctuary Cross was prominently displayed, allowing everyone in attendance to experience a closer and more profound connection with it.

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