The Altar and Accompanying Furnishings
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The altar and its furnishings are built with exceptional craftsmanship, inviting people to draw near to celebrate. The main table of the altar is constructed of marble cut in Connemara, Ireland and polished and finished in Kilkenny, Father Cody's hometown. Its pale green hue complements the general color scheme of the church. The two altar bases, made by Rogero, are oak, a wood often recognized as a symbol of strength and longevity.
Embedded into the marble altar are the relics of four saints secured from the Vatican. Placing relics inside the altar dates back to the early Church when the persecuted Christians celebrated Mass over the relics of martyrs buried in the catacombs. The altar at St. Joseph's bears the relics of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, St. Maria Goretti, St. Blase and St. John Neumann.
Within the sanctuary, are a number of additional furnishings all designed and crafted by parishioner Steve Rogero. These include the three decorative presider's chairs all of which have hand-carved side panels depicting a delicate grape and leaf design. Rogero also constructed the ambo frame, the offering tables inlaid 3 with walnut, the tabernacle table frame, the offertory drop frames and 12 beautifully scrolled corbels which hold votive candles. The corbels are installed on the columns facing the inside entryways of the church.