Tradition in the details of new Catholic church

By Roberta Ciancosi

The most unique aspect of the new Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church is not only in its traditional details, but it will also showcase the talents of some of its parishioners. The exterior crosses were handcrafted by parishioner Jim West based on a design of a cross in Rev. Marcos Velásquez’s home chapel. West also worked on the base of the weather vane, and the cross for the shrine that sits in the center of the property.

The church has a projected opening date of Feb. 13.

“While there is significant custom craftsmanship and complexity to our highly traditional church, we have successfully found individuals and companies that have allowed us to save over a million dollars so far in our development and construction efforts,” Ken Lepper, chairman of the Construction and Design Oversight Committee, said.

The windows will be installed within the next three weeks. To date, some cabinetry and painting have been completed and the mill work is set to begin shortly.

Acoustical panels have been installed on the ceiling to help create an excellent sound environment for music and worship. A state-of-the-art sound system will be installed with help from one of the top acoustical experts in the United States.

Tradition and history are also in the details of the new church’s design. The interior roof arches are “hammer beam trusses,” which date back to the 13th century and are a feature of London’s Westminster Abbey and Hall. The weather vane that sits atop the bell tower dates back to the ninth century. By papal decree all churches were required to have one on their dome or steeple. This is a reminder of Jesus’ prophecy that Peter would deny him three times.

There will be 18 chandeliers that were custom-designed by architect Steve Schloeder and were handcrafted in Scottsdale. The flooring will consist of a Versailles pattern with custom old traditional colored patterns, and symbols for the main and transverse aisles. Tile for the tabernacle altar, the main altar, the baptismal font and ambo will come from China.

The flooring in the mezzanine and the main doors will be made from reclaimed oak from old barns and other structures by a company in Phoenix. Carillon bells in the bell tower will be a combination of ancient and modern technology.

Throughout the new church, some of the sacred art and carvings will be completed by artists and artisans from Mexico. All of the art work will be based on ancient and traditional Catholic churches.

The church hosted a “Signing Day” event in September for parishioners to sign the nave walls before they were dry walled, and a second “Signing Day” was held on Nov. 21 for winter visitors who missed the first one.

Throughout all of the construction, Lepper said, “the city of Maricopa continues to be helpful and supportive in their role as inspector and monitor of all aspects of construction. Their help, cooperation and guidance have been invaluable.”

A memorial program will begin soon, allowing parishioners and members of the Maricopa community to purchase unique items that will go into the new church. Pews, sacred art, liturgical furnishings, statuary, and bells will be among the offerings.

The Knights of Columbus are selling paver bricks which will allow parishioners to leave a lasting legacy and these will cover the walkway leading into the church.

 

This story appeared in the December issue of InMaricopa News.