They raised the pulpit high above the communion table, with a double set of stairs leading up from either side to the place where our worship is centred: the sermons. |
What is it that makes our building so special for our 1855 worshippers?
Let's walk up William Street from Bagot. Above us is the spire, a slender needle tapering majestically to the heavens. Beneath it, the decorated steeple houses the grand bell they brought all the way from Troy , New York , to call us to worship. This church is truly a fine addition to the many new homes, churches and public buildings that workers are erecting all around this part of the city.
The building is especially impressive from the street. And it is medieval in tone, designed in the Gothic Revival style so popular with church architects these days. Tall and slender it seems from the outside. The limestone speaks of permanence. The tracery and slender elegant openings in the belfry remind us again of the Gothic influence on the builders. The nave is a large rectangle – and everywhere on the exterior walls we see elegant decorations. The large central double door with its Gothic arched transom welcomes us to enter.
Let's stand in the bell tower. High above us hangs the bell, its pull within easy reach.
Now step into the nave (sanctuary) of the church. The ceiling, high above our heads, is beautifully decorated. A centre aisle leads us forward to the chancel. The pews are flat on the floor, straight rows facing the pulpit. And what a pulpit! Nearby, the choir sit, their ministry of music such an important part of our worship services. In front of the communion table rest two highly decorated chairs, almost like thrones, in a Gothic style like so much else in our building.
It's a beautiful building. The vision of our architect, and the hard work of the labourers, stone masons, carpenters and glaziers who made the vision come to life remind us of God's glory here on earth.
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