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Observations:
Our Lady of Soledad Remodel
Kevin J. Drabinski
I would hope that in the next few years the parish church at Our Lady of Solitude would come to be justifiably recognized for the truly elegant update and expansion that was completed there earlier this year. For some time, the parish had relied on makeshift accommodations to handle a steadily increasing local population. But no more. A new wing was constructed perpendicular to the main body of the church to provide more adequate seating and the entire church has been tastefully refurbished. Some of the real success of the work is seen in the blending of the original elements with the new. The stained glass windows still warm the afternoon interiors. The altar area retains its airy spaciousness and now extends in the direction of the new wing. The additional angles of the church required an anchor point at their intersection and the baptismal font provides distinguished service in that role. From certain vantage points the broad circle of water on the surface of the font now reflects the stained glass along the western wall.
The interior doors of the main entrance are works of art. They balance heft with transparency – they both seal and invite. The entire effort is accomplished with an eye to simplicity. The faux stone floor is functional, not flashy. It is warm and makes for almost silent footfalls, an effect that adds to the contemplative sense of the space. The Our Lady of Solitude church is delightful, a dignified place for worship and prayer built to last for years to come. Visit and enjoy.
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