For a very long while now I've enjoyed a certain kind of Eastern European church architecture that one can find in the more rural regions of Russia and other select parts of Eastern Europe. It is a style that, for me at least, is defined by one simple but defining characteristic: wood. That might seem like an odd characteristic to pinpoint, but what we are talking about here are those churches that are predominantly constructed of plain, unadorned wood; what ornament these churches do have comes in the form of icons and the art associated with the altar and sanctuary. For whatever reason, I have always found this to be quite visually compelling. I suppose the reason for that may be the juxtaposition one sees between the rustic qualities of the overarching architecture and the far more refined and decorative qualities of the liturgical objects and images themselves. It presents an interesting contrast that is both rustic and beautiful.
My long love of this style was the reason why the chapel of St. Anne in Lawton, Michigan -- which was originally constructed in Poland in 2003 -- captured my attention. This particular chapel is attached to one of the apostolates of the Canons Regular of St. John Cantius, primarily based out of Chicago, and as you'll see, it has that familiar rustic feel that I have been trying to describe, but here it has been adapted to and set within a distinctly traditional Latin rite context -- usually we see them in a more Byzantine rite context.
As you will not, there is an altar rail, rood beam, chancel, and a comparatively intricately carved gothic revival high altar and reredos.
I should also point out that at the very top of the altar's reredos is a beautiful, medieval style image of the patroness of the chapel, St. Anne. She is shown in glory, holding in her arms her young daughter Mary, who in turn holds in her own arms the infant Christ.
As noted, we can also find a rood beam in typical medieval Western fashion. This rood scene includes the classic pairing of Our Lady and St. John, and in this case they have also added an image of St. Mary Magdalen.
The exterior of St. Anne's is also no exception; this too has a clear echo of that rural Eastern European rustic charm that I so love. (Do also take note of the bells.) It is a scene plucked right out of medieval Eastern Europe.
To really appreciate things here in their fullness though, we really need to see the chapel when it is being put into its proper liturgical use. For that reason, we're pleased to be able to share with our readers a few select photographs of just that, coming within the context of the ancient Roman rite.
A real treasure in heart of Michigan to be certain.
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