Coventry Cathedral

Abstract

The new Coventry Cathedral is a modern design, treated with much respect for historical tradition. It can accommodate 1350 seated people, and can hold a congregation of 2000 when the central nave is filled. Its length is 82.36 m, and its width 24.40 m. The main entrance is protected by a porch, and is an opening in the great glazed curtain wall, engraved by John Hutton, which provides a clear view of the inside of the building. On entering, to the right, is the baptistry which is illuminated by a richly couloured glass window, and on the left is the Chapel of Unity, whose planform is star shaped. The central nave was thought out with the idea that the congregation should concentrate its attention on the main altar. This has been successfully done by the zigzag progress of the side walls, and the direction of the illumination. The chapels of Our Lady, Christ at Gethsemane, and The Industry are behind the Presbitery. In the crypt there is a chapter room, the sacristy, offices and auxiliary facilities. In prominent positions, on he outside elevations, there are sculptures of Saint Michael and the Devil, by Sir Jacob Epstein. The building is crowned by a needle, of abstract design, which rises 24 m above the top of the roof, and provides a good expression of the resurgence of religious spirit in Britain.