Baptismal Font

In the center of the nave is the baptismal font.  It sits on the same axis as the altar as a visible sign of the intimate connection between Baptism and Eucharist.  The octagonal shape of the font represents the eighth day - the day of Christ's resurrection and ushering of a new age.  St. Augustine characterized this day as "the eighth day that surpasses description and cannot be foreseen, the day on which God will complete the work of creation."  The font is carved from the same deep red semi-precious marble as the altar and ambo.  Eight gold-plated bronze images  made in Pietrasanta, Italy present eight images from the ritual blessing of water for Baptism.