RENEWED IN BEAUTY.

Auckland Star, Volume LXVIII, Issue 236, 5 October 1937, Page 8

RENEWED IN BEAUTY.

ST. PATRICK'S CATHEDRAL.

CK NT KVAR Y R ENOVATIONS. Alterations and addition* to the interior of St. Patrick's Cathedral, in preparation for the celebration of the centenary of the' introduction of the Catholic faith in New Zealand, in February and March, 1938, have done much to beautify the church. Upwards of st.iOOO has been expended in repairs, decoration and new furnishings. The entire walls have been repainted, including the stonework, and the woodwork has been stripped and restained. The flooring in the nave hae been replaced by concrete, while the whole flooring space has been covered with a special type of cork linoleum prepared in Scotland. Rewiring has been completed throughout the building, and pendant lamp*, each holding six lights, have been installed to add to the dignity of the interior. The side chapels have been redecorated.

The entire seating accommodation hae been replaced by pews of handsome design and proportions. The modern simplicity pewe is relieved by decorative carving on the ends, each seat displaying a different motif. The new seats are of plain rimu, stained dark, their manufacture being one of the biggest undertakings of the kind in Auckland. The carving, too, was done by local workmen. A new pulpit ie to be erected in the south-east corner of the nave, allowing the congregation an uninterrupted view of the sanctuary and high altar.

The historic organ, originally installed in the Brompton Oratory, London, has been, to a large extent, rebuilt. The renovations include new pipes and pneumatic action, and a new electric motor and blower. The instrument, which was brought to Auckland in the 'nineties, ha* stood in St., Patrick's Cathedral for many years. On it alone it is estimated that £1000 will be expended. The marble altar has been embellished. Above the high altar a new and beautiful carved wooden crucifix has been suspended as part of the handsome additions to the ornamentation of the cathedral. Two ornamented metal gates are under construction for the baptistry Their installation, it is expected, will enhance the dignity of the north-east end of the church.

While the pleasing interior portions of the cathedral have been renewed in beauty, renovation of the exterior has not been neglected. Spouting has been replaced and roof tilings overhauled. In the entrance porch there are new book racks and furniture. The renovations, should be completed within a short time.