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New Chu
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Rear elevation (above). Altar (below).
Front entrance.
UST COMPLETED, this new St. Francis Xavier Church has been
built on a two-acre plot
on Jalan Gasing, Petaling Jaya, Selangor. Federation of Malaya.
Soft soil on the site gave a little trouble in early designing but use of piles and special underground drain- age overcame this, with the added advantage of eliminating surface dampness.
The new church has a length of 144 feet and a clear span of 60 feet. The ceiling is 30 feet above floor level, giving the traditional character and atmosphere of A Christian church.
No columns obstruct the clear 60- foot span of the central hall of the church which will accommodate about one thousand seated worship- pers. No windows break the side or end walls, but at the height of 25 feet there are openings to allow the free circulation of air. These carry protective slabs on the exterior to keep out rain.
In place of windows in the side walls is a specially designed precast concrete grill-work which allows sufficient light and air to enter.
At the cast end is a generously proportioned sanctuary, raised three feet above the level of the rest of the church.
The choir and whole congregation are held within the main hall.
The main altar is of Italian mar- ble slabs. Above it is a full-size crucifix specially made in Hong Kong. The altars in the two side chapels are also of Italian marble.
Modern architectural patterns and decorations are incorporated in
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