No_8_August_1969 — Page 17

UUTT

This newly-designed altar affords a greater sense of participation

Front and side elevations

Far East BUILDER, August 1969

PC VERTICAL FINS AT 3′ SPACING

· REBATE

6 FAIRFACE CONG. ~SHUTTERING-

PATTERN

2" DEEP INSET CROSS

_RC FOOTING.

greater sense of participation for the congregation and a closer link between it and the priest than was afforded in the old pillared naves. This has been admirably achieved by placing the seat- ing in three groups in the arms of the cross-shape. The floors slope 3ft. 6in. down to the high altar and the seating is stepped so that no one is more than 70ft. away from the sanctuary.

Being grouped around the altar on three sides, the congregation are in- timately concerned with the Sacrifice. There is no communion rail to act as a barrier and a public address system is installed so that all may easily fol- low the prayers.

Externally, the paved forecourt of the Cathedral, on the west, is lined with palms and the eye is directed imme- diately to the broad tent-like roof which sweeps down from the central cross at a height of 86ft. The roof is supported by steel trusses extending from the apex to squat reinforced con- crete columns. It is finished in rich brown Belian shingle - a local product available only in Sarawak.

Fairfaced concrete has been used on all columns, walls and on the cam- panile. The cathedral floor is con- structed of precast concrete slabs laid on sand bedding, while the low wall

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