AS of October 14 the refurbishment includes a completed wall, plastered and painted, behind the altar.
This wall has now been lighted with ‘spots’ for the Crucifix. I have viewed photos of the Crucifix (still in process) and will site inspect it next Monday (Oct 19).
I am pleased with the wooden material and the “resurrection” perspective which complements the white colour of the wall (washed with light) and the tonal features of the altar, the ambo (pulpit) and the ‘movable’ presidential chair.
There is still lighting to be installed that will wash up from the floor.
The whole church and narthex have been painted and new lights elevate the mood of the narthex which will include two feature walls using plaster and focused lights.
One feature is where the carpet on the wall used to be and the other backs the book shelving which has been removed.
The cross, the pieta and portrait of Father Ryan will all hang in the narthex as will the statue of Saint Bridget, next to the list of pastors.
In the church Our Lady of Greythorn will stand between the organ and the sanctuary; the statue of the Sacred Heart on the pedestal (renovated) where St Bridget was previously. The stain glass window of St Bridget is already in the window next to the tabernacle.
The area around the tabernacle chapel has been plastered, painted and lighted.
One of the bigger decisions, and costly, was to remove the remaining ducts from the old heating system. These were an ugly remnant of the system and, even with painting, they marred the edge of the wood.
The pews are yet to be re-stained but they will be arranged somewhat differently. I am conscious that many parishioners have mentioned a feature of Greythorn was the closeness of the people to the liturgical celebrations.
In arranging the pews, one of the difficulties is that, being a fan shape, the closer you bring the pews to the front, the narrower the aisle.
Still to be included on the right side front are seats for those parishioners wanting a supportive and more comfortable chair. These will be purchased.
At this stage I am looking to set a date for a blessing and opening. So it is progressing thought it looks, at times, very much like a work in progress.