Dome

Detail, bronze doors backed with clear glass; the tanglewood detailing represents life’s difficulties; Renowned sculptor Enrico Manfrini from Milan spent six years designing and creating the faceted glass and bronze doors. The main doors face Geary Boulevard and have a large bronze overpanel, an image of Christ rising above human figures to represent the ecumenical search for God throughout civilization. Historical and symbolic figures strive toward salvation with Mary’s intercession. The figures include a kneeling Paul VI, his tiara laid aside in a spirit of humility, an American Indian with arms upraised, and an Arab and Jew embracing. Backed by faceted colored glass, the overpanel is also impressive when viewed from the interior, where it becomes apparent that the center forms a chalice symbolizing the Eucharist. Source: Catholic San Francisco; http://www.catholic-sf.org/ (accessed 8/15/2015)