Washington National Cathedral, situated on a small hill in Washington D.C., boasts a prominent position, towering over the cityscape. At the heart of this cathedral lies the grand chancel, housing one of the country’s most elegant main altars. Adorned with intricate decorations, the main altar is a sight to behold, accompanied by the impressive Quire for the choir and the majestic pipe organ. This article will delve into the allure of the main altar, a sacred space within Washington National Cathedral.
Located about 2 miles north of Georgetown, the upscale shopping district in the western part of Washington, D.C., wher...
The Main Altar’s Eastward Orientation
Following the tradition of many European and Western cathedrals, the main altar faces eastward. This orientation is believed to indicate the direction of the holy city of Jerusalem. Washington National Cathedral upholds this practice, aligning the main altar in the same direction. Accessible to the public during specific occasions, visitors can participate in guided tours or attend worship services, including the noonday prayer, to experience this sacred space.
The Enchanting Setting of the Main Altar
The entrance to the main altar is marked by the crossing of the nave, where ordinary worshippers gather, and the north and south transepts. In contrast to the stone floors that dominate most of the cathedral, this area features a wooden floor adorned with the Jerusalem Cross, the cathedral’s symbol. Notably, this space serves as the stage for orchestra and choir concerts on Independence Day and a place for state funerals, where the coffins rest on the Jerusalem Cross.
The Lecterns – Scriptures and Sermons
Positioned before the main altar on the wooden floor are two meticulously adorned lecterns. The smaller lectern on the left serves as the “lectern for reading the scriptures,” while the larger one on the right functions as the “pulpit for preaching.” Both lecterns are exquisitely decorated, with the larger pulpit famously known as the “Canterbury Pulpit” – a gift from the renowned Canterbury Cathedral, the center of the Church of England.
The Quire and the Enchanting Pipe Organ Situated in front of the main altar is the “Quire,” a wooden choir stall adorned with intricate decorations. Flanking the main altar on the north and south sides, the Quire consists of three rows of steps. Positioned at the center of the southern Quire is the console of the impressive pipe organ, where the organist skillfully plays, and the pipes are mounted above, producing resounding melodies that resonate throughout the cathedral.
The Sanctum – A Place of Significance
Beyond the Quire, the sanctuary is enclosed by a wooden fence. Here lies the main attraction – a magnificent marble altar adorned with exquisite decorations sourced from Jerusalem. The centerpiece features Jesus Christ, holding a jeweled ornament with a cross in his left hand and raising his right hand with the index and middle fingers extended, symbolizing an inclusive invitation to prayer for all. The altar is also surrounded by 110 figures carved in relief, inspired by divine revelations.
The Main Altar – A Testament to Grandeur and Spiritual Significance
Unlike many Western cathedrals, Washington National Cathedral invites all to experience its main altar freely. Attend worship services or take a guided tour to explore the beauty and sacredness of this remarkable space. The main altar of Washington National Cathedral stands as a testament to the grandeur of architecture, art, and spiritual significance in the heart of the nation’s capital.
There are numerous cathedrals and churches in and around downtown Wash...
