Last weekend I got to sing with one of my choirs in a truly special space: the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Little Flower. This architectural jewel, built during the Depression, is on the near west side of San Antonio and is the center of an active parish as well as being a tourist destination.
It was put on the National Register of Historic Places, and was awarded the status of a Minor Catholic Basilica in, 1998. (I know the former is a big deal, and, while not being Catholic, I assume the latter is, too!) It is also the first National Shrine dedicated to Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, the "Little Flower." You can read more about the building's purpose and history here, and more about Saint Thérèse here.
Isn't this a beautiful space? I was particularly taken with the light fixtures along the side aisles. Here's a closeup of one:
Another gorgeous feature is the dome above the equally amazing altar...
Here's another shot, taken just under the dome (during our Saturday rehearsal the church was pretty empty, so I could go wherever I needed to get the best angles):
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| maybe not as spectacular as that of St. Pauls, but... |
And of course there are lovely stained glass windows...
...and even floor tile art! Both of these features, as long-time readers know, are favorites of mine when visiting houses of worship.
A great place to sing the Carols of Lessons and [ ], and a wonderful place to know is right in our home town!
