Archbishop Barry Hickey showed Foreign Affairs Minister and Member for Perth, Stephen Smith, around St Mary’s Cathedral last week as workers push towards the expected Christmas completion date. The guided tour was in recognition of Mr Smith’s personal interest in the project and the $4 million the Federal Government has contributed in heritage works funding. A shortfall of $7.4 million due to increased costs, remains.
From left, Mr Gus Irdi, Archbishop Barry Hickey and Foreign Minister, the Rt Hon Stephen Smith. Photo: Robert Hiini
The site of worship: Foreign Ministery Stephen Smith and Archbishop Barry Hickey stand where the new altar will besituated exactly above the refurbished crypt.
Tiler Gordon McDowell repairing damage done to the mosaic by an earthquake in 1968 in what was St Mary’s sanctuary.
Photos: Robert Hiini
The former sanctuary will become the new
Blessed Sacrament Chapel.
The new marble sanctuary in the middle of St Mary’s will be visible from all angles.
View from the crypt beneath where the new altar will be.