If you think substantial altars and altar rails are now a thing of the distant past, capable of only seeing much simpler or more mediocre manifestations today, then think again. Here is just a small sampling of some of the new work that is taking place today, and these coming from only one of the many firms doing work in this area: Duncan G. Stroik Architect . Never underestimate what is possible.

ALTAR RAILS

Shrine to the Sacred Heart, St. Louis, Missouri

Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe, La Crosse, Wisconsin

Thomas Aquinas College Chapel, Santa Paula, California

What I like about each of these examples are the variety of colours and materials found in their composition. This helps to make them visually interesting and aesthetically appealing. What's more, they are also very substantial in their design, which is not only pleasing to the eye but also pleasing from a liturgical/theological perspective, visually setting apart the altar and sanctuary from the nave. At one and the same time it both sets it apart and also has an effect of drawing one in.









ALTARS





Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe, La Crosse, Wisconsin

St. Joseph's Cathedral, Sioux Falls, South Dakota

St. Theresa Church, Sugarland, Texas

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Two of the altars shown here have something of the character of Romanin their form, while the last draws from the tradition of thewith its relics visible within. All of them are quite appealing, classical and substantial.Very nice work all around.