Altar Rail Restoration
October 2020
Built in 1942, Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is one of the most historic churches in the city, and we were absolutely humbled to contribute to the rich architectural and artistic history of the parish.
The removal of the central portion of the original altar rails in 1970 left scarring on the beautiful marble floor. Unfortunately, a true restoration of the original altar rails was not possible. Thus, the design of the wooden restoration rails was heavily inspired by not only the original rails but also other design elements in the church.
True to the images on the gates of the original rails, the central panels of the restoration rails were the “Lamb of Seven Seals”…
…and the “Pelican Feeding Her Young”.
The columns flanking the sides of the rails were based on the columns flanking the front of the current marble altar; the geometric design on the beveled molding mimics the molding surrounding the Mary and Joseph side altars. The rails’ arches and negative space were also based upon the arches in the sanctuary of the church.
Walnut was the wood of choice to match the presider’s chair and the confessionals.