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 SAINT THOMAS TOUR 1 - The Narthex |
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The entry to the church, the Narthex was redone as a thank offering for Peace after World War II. The floor is of inlaid marble, and at the center is a large mosaic showing the globe and cross with tan marble continents and bits of glass for seas. “Peace on earth to men of goodwill” encloses this. Surrounding it are mosaic shields of the Allied Nations. The coffered oak ceiling is supported by six stone corbels. The inner four represent the four seasons, while those at the corners depict the four ancient Greek elements, earth, air, fire, and water. Four angels hold symbols of the Church and lanterns. |
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On the north wall is a small altar of marble with alpha and omega and a triangle, the symbol of the Holy Trinity. Above is a Prayer for Peace flanked by the Archangels Michael (with the sword) and Gabriel (with the trumpet). On the altar rests a book with illuminations on parchment listing the names of parishioners who served in the war. The names in red indicate that they gave their lives. Still higher are small enameled discs representing the various branches of the armed forces, leading up to carved busts of the chiefs of staff of the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines. |
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Go through the doors and enter the nave....