AN imposing three-dimensional steel crucifix suspended over the sanctuary is an eye-catching feature of the new-look St William’s Church at Grovely -which has opened in time for Easter.
Parishioners moved back into the church on March 20, after using the ‘old’ church for six months.
Volunteers toiled to have the church ready for its first liturgy – the Saturday afternoon wedding of Michelle Tidbury and Robert Kyte.
Parish priest Fr Frank Lourigan presided and many parishioners shared in the special occasion.
Fr Lourigan said he was pleased with the outcome of the $750,000 refurbishment which he believes succeeds in enhancing the integration and the unity of the various dimensions of the liturgy.
‘We tried to take seriously the first priority of the Synod (2003), which is the renewal of the liturgy,’ he said.
The life-size cross was sculpted from steel by Peter Anderson in consultation with a committee comprising Fr Lourigan, pastoral ministry co-ordinator Jan Whiteway, archdiocesan Liturgical Commission director Fr Tom Elich and architect Tim Guymer.
A booklet describing the renovations says ‘the body of Jesus is one with the cross, not a separate figure attached to it’.
Mrs Whiteway said the creativity of the architect, Tim Guymer, had allowed more light into the church, which enhanced the new baptistry and sanctuary.
