The contractors have finalized the plan for a pulley system that will draw a curtain over the Crucifix for the duration of Passiontide. They are arranging for the materials before presenting a mockup for their solution in the near future. Then we will schedule an installation using the same boom lift that we used during Holy Week this year to take measurements and make repairs to the Crucifix and altar crenellations.
The pulley rope will be installed into a channel along the Epistle-side roof slope and down the wall, terminating in a crank system. When complete, this system will vastly simplify the annual process of raising a veil over the Crucifix.
Meanwhile, the other major statues in the sanctuary will have curtain rod brackets installed, so that curtains similar to the one veiling the Crucifix can be lifted into place. I am grateful to the Altar Linens & Flower Society, the members of which have been sourcing a rich, violet silk and making plans for the creation of the veils.
We hope to have the pulley system installed by the fall and the curtains ready by next Passiontide.
