Experience the Cathedral
A Walk Through the Cathedral
Entering though the unadorned bronze doors, and beneath bronze cast figures of Apostles, the spacious beauty of the Cathedral is apparent. The simple symmetry of the massive limestone columns and Gothic vaulting draw the eye to the open choir and chancel with its pierced stone apsidal screens and High Altar. Layered into the exterior wall behind the columns, a series of stained glass windows, most designed in England by Clayton and Bell prior to 1908, and completed by Wallis Studios in 1957, encircle the nave and ambulatory. Each its own historic and artistic treasure, these windows, as well as those in the clerestory above, add striking jewel-tone colors throughout the day.
In contrast, the interior walls are plastered in a light coral tone finish which highlights both the limestone masonry and the stained glass. To complete the elegant simplicity, ambient lighting for the entire space is carefully provided by up-lighting the coffered ceiling and discreetly placed aisle down-lights. Versatile accent lighting is provided for the many functions of the chancel area.
​Other artistic treasures contained within the building are the font, High Altar, and pulpit — all carved of Caen-stone. The font is a gift of Lady Franklin, and was sent from England in 1862; the High Altar was executed by Evans & Company, Boston, 1908; and the pulpit, also by Evans & Company, was installed in 1913. Four Art Deco mosaic tablets, depicting various biblical scenes, have been placed in the Narthex vestibules. In this century, two devotional chapels have been introduced into existing nave aisle spaces.
The Chapel of Patrons is dedicated to Saints Kamehameha IV and Queen Emma, its focal point being a contemporary icon of the Royal Saints created by Robert Lenz. The Peace Chapel, created in 2003 with its koa wood altar and intricate prayer desk, contains the "Crown of Thorns" by Rosalinda Kolb.