This proposal focuses on the restoration of the sanctuary to a proper emphasis on the eucharist through its architecture. The proposal restores the high altar which had been removed in a post Vatican II renovation scheme, and restores the tabernacle and the eucharist to the center focus of the space. While a restored high altar would be quite large, it nevertheless remains small relative to the height of the sanctuary and does not draw the eye toward itself sufficiently.
To correct this and place a proper emphasis on the eucharist and the Mass itself, a baldacchino would be erected above the altar of sacrifice directly in front of the tabernacle. While the baldacchino is large, through its size and proportions, draws the eye to the altar and the tabernacle beyond.
The renovation would also restore the original cathedra, ambo and altar rails, many parts of which have been preserved in storage in other locations in the cathedral. The colors of the cathedral would be brightened up in an attempt to return the church to more of the original paint scheme.
Richmond, Virginia
Status: Proposed 2026
