[Music]
Heritage Restoration and Design Studio was contracted to construct a standing
outdoor crucifix. Rough cedar boards were selected and measured to the appropriate
lengths. To make the connection point for the beams, a section of main board was
carefully cut down using old-world dadoing techniques. After cleaning out
wood residue the cross beam was cut in the same manner. Both pieces were then
fitted together and sealed into place. The centerpiece of the crucifix is a
50-inch resin corpus of Jesus crucified. Large screws were cut and affixed to the
back to the corpus to attach it to the cross. Next the cross was treated and
finished to withstand the outdoor elements. A custom INRI sign was carved
and refinished. It contained the traditional biblical text in Hebrew
Latin and Greek. The corpus was given seven layers of Heritage's outdoor
statuary copper coating. The components of the crucifix were now ready to be
assembled. A special thanks to Wilson Lawn Service, who dug the hole at the
installation site, tamped it flat, and added mulch to the surrounding grounds.
Heritage's staff members shipped the cross to the site and inserted it into the
hole. [Music] The base of the cross was cemented in
place for lasting stability.
To ensure that the cross remained level
during the drying time, braces were put into place. After the cement hardened the
corpus was brought on site and the braces were removed.
[Music] The screws were reattached to the
corpus' back and tightened to the precise length required. After the corpus
was attached to the cross the screws were sealed into place. To cover the
screw holes matching wood plugs were placed in the back of the cross. These
stops were then cut to size and refinished ensuring a smooth surface. The
INRI sign was placed on top of the cross and screwed into place. To preserve the
smooth wood motif stops were tamped into place. As a final measure the stops and
crossbeam were subjected to a final coating of finish. The installed crucifix
is now complete.
It stands outside its church to remind visitors of the
sanctity of the area for years to come [Music].