As the work draws closer and closer to conclusion on the renovation of the historic Cathedral Basilica of Saint Augustine, a time capsule was placed in the main altar on Monday, March 9, 2015.
In early January, as the altar was being taken apart a time capsule that had been placed there in 1966 was found by workers of Baker Liturgical Art who was contracted to perform the renovation work this time.
“We placed some items that tell the story of the parish’s 450th anniversary that is fast approaching,” Fr. Tom Willis, the Cathedral’s rector said. “Along with that there are some pictures that show how the use of this altar has changed through the years since it was first installed in 1888.”
As for the renovation, construction crews are beginning to finalize the biggest items as well as put the finishing touches on one of St. Augustine’s iconic structures.
“The new Italian marble floor is almost complete as is the work on the new choir loft,” Fr. Willis remarked. “The new lighting and sound systems are almost fully installed too. Pews are scheduled to arrive next week to set in place and installed.”
The public will get its first view of the work on Palm Sunday weekend since the Cathedral closed in early January. Crews will then finalize everything in the weeks after Easter.
“Jimmy Pecorelli (left), construction supervisor for Baker Liturgical Art, and the Cathedral’s rector, Fr. Tom Willis, place a time capsule into the main altar Monday morning.”