The Altar

Looking towards the right, you will see the brass lectern, made in the shape of an eagle.

The lectern dates from 1875.  In Anglican churches the Bible, the Word of God, is read from the lectern.  It is a common practice for the lectern to be made in the shape of an eagle. The eagle can fly higher than any other bird and can look straight into the sun; thus it represents the Word transporting us upwards to God.

 Looking towards the left, you will see the pulpit. This pulpit was designed by William Critchlow Harris, and is a memorial to Canon Simpson, along with members of the Simpson family.

Looking towards the chancel, where the choir sings during church services,  you will notice on your right the pipe organ. Originally built in 1882 by George Hutchings of Boston, Massachusetts, as a small manual organ, it was rebuilt and enlarged with the addition of an electric pneumatic system installed by Casavant in 1946. In 1972  some total changes were made by the Maritime Pipe Organ Company. Since that time various changes have been made by Mr. Albert Evers of New Brunswick. The organ has 1534 pipes. 

 

Looking towards the Altar, you will note the seven hanging Sanctuary Lamps. These symbolize the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit mentioned in the Old Testament Book of Isaiah chapter 11.  They also call to mind the “seven lamps burning before the throne of God” as described in St. John’s vision of Heaven (Revelation 4:5).

 

Take note of the Altar – the most important and most sacred place in the church.  Here the sacrament of The Holy Eucharist (The Mass) is celebrated and Holy Communion is given to those who come to receive the Holy Sacrament.



The Altar is the design of William Critchlow Harris. The Reredos, that is, the ornamental structure rising behind the Altar, hold statues of Jesus and the four Evangelists, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, each with his own symbol, an angel, a lion, an ox and an eagle, respectively.

 

We hope you have enjoyed this brief digital tour of St. Peter’s Cathedral.  Please note that additional information, with more details, can be found in the brochures and pamphlets available near the main entrance.

"Say a prayer, enjoy your visit, come back soon."

St. Peter's Cathedral and its All Souls Chapel
  1. The Chapel
  2. St. Athansius
  3. Archangel Michael stained glass
  4. St. Jerome
  5. St. Ambrose
  6. Blessed Virgin Mary and Christ stained glass
  7. St. Augustine of Hippo
  8. St. John Chrysostom
  9. Christ on the Cross stained glass
  10. St. Gregory the Great
  11. The Sanctuary
  12. Peace I leave with you
  13. Matyrdom of St. Stephen
  14. Morson Children
  15. Entrance Wall
  16. The Cathedral
  17. Icon of the Virgin Mary
  18. The Baptistery
  19. Centre Aisle
  20. The Altar