St. James Cathedral – Seattle, Washington
When St. James was completed in the first decade of the twentieth century, a dome constructed of steel, terra cotta, and brick, and covered in copper covered the transept. Less than nine years after dedication of the cathedral. On January 31, 1916 there were already 23 inches of snow on the ground. In the 24 hours starting at 5pm on February 1 to February 2, another 21 inches of snow fell. Priests risked their lives to head inside to save the Blessed Sacrament. A year long restoration commenced costing a total of $125,000. St. James officially reopened on March 18, 1917. In place of the dome was a flat fresco based on Raphael’s Ascension. Arcades were added across the front of the north and south transepts, creating a long aisle. New terrazzo flooring were added. Acoustics were dramatically improved without the dome.
Set within the arch is gilding on glass. The scriptural passage, “I am the vine, you are the branches” is depicted beneath an image of Jesus Christ with arms extended and palms facing outward.
Further down are the sculpted metal doors.
To either side of the entrance door are a small detail well executed. The door stop or corner guard, depending on what you call them, are of a fisherman and a fish. This is a metaphor for Jesus Christ and the disciples being “fishers of men” seeking the forgiveness of sits and the salvation of human souls.
The altar is beneath the transept and in the round, with seating on four sides. The bishop’s cathedra is to the right.
The photo of the Blessed Virgin Mary is beautifully situated atop a pedestal with a blind arch and Corinthian columns framing it. The lighting is also tastefully done bringing out the sculptural features well.
Far more humble, but still well executed and lit is the Blessed Saint Joseph statue.
Art on the walls is an attempt to support artists. This is also a reflection of this being the “artist’s cathedral.” Art is abundant throughout this place.