Glasgow: Bethlehem craftsmen create new mosaic for St Andrew's Cathedral
A mosaic showing the coat of arms of the Archdiocese has been laid on the floor of St Andrew's Cathedral, ahead of its formal opening on April 9. The mosaic was created in the Holy Land by Palestinian craftsmen from Bethlehem, whose work graces some of the most important churches in the world.
The tiny pieces of stone were carefully selected from the area around Christ's birthplace and crafted into the large mosaic which has now been set into the floor of the Cathedral foyer. The words round the shield - Specialis Filia Romanae Ecclesiae - refer to the privileged title accorded the Archdiocese by Pope Alexander III in the 12th century as "special daughter of the Roman Church".
Archbishop Conti said: "I am sure people will be struck by the beauty and craftsmanship of the installation. It is a tangible link between our newly renovated Cathedral and the land which Christ inhabited. It is also a sign of solidarity with the people of Bethlehem, which is Glasgow's twin city, in the difficulties they face in their day-to-day life."
To glimpse behind the scenes as workers and craftsmen complete their labours in preparation for the opening of the Cathedral on 9 April 2011, see: www.youtube.com/GlasgowArchdiocese