41. FONT AND CRUCIFIX

The font is used for the rite of baptism. The brass cap is removed to reveal a shallow bowl containing water. Here babies are baptised into Christ and into the Christian community.  •• The processional crucifix is used to lead processions of clergy and choir into and out of services.   INDEX

42. AMBO

On the other side of the sanctuary stands a matching piece of furniture called an ambo. Many churches have a lectern from where the Scripture is read, and a pulpit, used for a preaching ministry. In many Catholic churches and cathedrals these two roles are combined with the use of an ambo.

43. CENTRAL CRUCIFIX

This large crucifix stands high up in the Eastern corner of St Mary’s. It is a central reminder that Christ died for the world.

44. ABORIGINAL MADONNA AND CHILD

This painting to the right of the sanctuary, entitled ‘Our Lady of the Aborigines’ is a reminder that different races and cultures are likely to view Biblical events through different eyes.

45. ALTAR

At the centre of the sanctuary stands the altar. It is from here that the Elements of the Eucharist are administered. The Church sanctuary was rearranged by Father Leon (2000 – 2008). He brought the priest’s chair forward and closer to the people and also had renovations done to bring the sanctuary and altar closer to the congregation. This was in line with Vatican recommendations of the 1960s.

46. SANCTUARY ALCOVES

There is an alcove on each side of the sanctuary, neatly constructed to fit the angular patterns of this Church. From the exterior these alcoves are invisible, apart from the windows, being tucked into the chapel extensions. I found a crucifix here, and the windows depict St Francis of Assisi, and St Teresa of Avilon?   The windows are in the style of the narthex windows.

47. SOUTHEAST NAVE WALL

Leaving the sanctuary, we explore the final section of the nave. Along this wall are three more colourful windows. To our left is a recessed space for the organ, with a private area in behind.

48. ORGAN

A small electronic organ stands in this alcove – one which seems to me to be completely inadequate for this large nave. I also now realise that I have seen no loud speakers or amplification equipment in the nave. I am suddenly suspicious of those large square light fittings!!

49. SOUTHEAST NAVE WINDOWS

There are three colourful windows along the Southeast wall of the nave. These match the windows on the opposite wall with a common overall design, but with varying circular emblems and texts.

50. WINDOWS DETAIL

The left window shows a flame surrounded by a crown of thorns. The text shows the Seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit, which according to the Catechism of the Catholic Church are Wisdom, Understanding, Counsel, Fortitude, Knowledge, Piety, and Fear of the Lord. (1 Cor 12:7–11). •• The second window depicts a dove along with the text ‘I will send the Spirit of Truth’. (John 15:26) ••• The third window shows a Chi-Rho symbol (for Christ) with text ‘St Mary of the Angels 1986’. This completes our exploration of this Church.