The Bell Tower: The Tower's basic function, standing in all its simplicity, is to hold the bells and provide the foundation for the cross. The cross is constructed of unfinished, natural redwood and "touched" with gold-leaf, the most precious of man's natural metals. The cross is rough, plain and simple, making it something special. It is so constructed that from any direction, the form of the cross is always visible.

The purpose of the church bells is to invite the faithful to gather for worship, as a reminder to say the Angelus three times a day in commemoration of the Incarnation, and as a signal of some special events. The three long-stemmed bells bear the inscription of: Mary, St. Joseph, and St. Patrick.

What began as architecture by worship, not worship by architecture, explains many of the features of St. Patrick's Church.

--Originally written in 1972.

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St.Patrick Catholic Church of Oklahoma City