The air was brisk and cold as many shivering parishioners and dignitaries assembled at the 35 acre site on the Van Sciver Tract that Sunday Afternoon, January 3, 1965. Archbishop Damiano presided at the groundbreaking ceremonies for Paul VI High School, Convent and St. Vincent Pallotti Church.

"The Church of Renewal"
"To Build A Parish From Scratch"
"Since The Beginning"



This is an apt description of the new, beautiful church of St. Vincent Pallotti. It is a building modern in design and incorporating the recent litugical changes of Vatican II.

The outside appearance is one of strength with its heavy flange walls. The frontage boasts a wing spread grandeur like the power of the Holy Spirit hovering over all. The large front pyramid stands symbolic of the Trinity. Through high dark walls, the people of God are corralled as through a valley unto holy mountains for the worship of the Lord.

Once inside there is an unexpected burst of space and light. Immediately all architectural lines focus on one point-the Rock of Sacrifice.

Due to the broad triangular shape, all participants are brought into warm intimacy with the altar. An overall feeling of the ancient drapings of a Semitic tent are caused by the multilevel roof and pryamidic side walls. The side coves readily make shrines for the stations and confessionals.

The atmosphere is "earthy" - a simple blend of brown tones and grey. The stained glass sends soft colors playing in every changing patterns. Their free form, lace-like design complements the angular symmetry of metal and stone.

Beneath the sheath of the front-pyramid lies the Baptismal Font. This entrance gate to the Christian life is tied visually with the culmination of that life in the Eucharist.

The squared altar of native rock seemingly protudes into the assembly. The celebrant's chair is in a elevated position behind the altar. And the Divine Reservation is housed in a modest, yet most appropriate position on the center of the sanctuary wall. As pilgrims readying for a journey, communicants will receive the Food of Life at fixed Communion Stations.

The body of the Church forms a natural megaphone for the transmitting of the Word of God from the unpretentious pulpit.

Organ and choir will enhance prayer from the vantage of a most spacious loft.

Indeed, a church today is built for the generations of tomorrow. And due to the creative artistry of the architect this new Church of St. Vincent Pallotti will long serve man to honor God.

"The Church of Renewal"
"To Build A Parish From Scratch"
"Since The Beginning"