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“Eccessia Dominae Nostrae de Monte Carmelo MCMXXXVI” is still clearly visible on the church façade,
attesting to its 1936 completion.
While Our Lady of Mount Carmel’s exterior seems simple to the casual viewer, its interior provides the
“Wow!” factor. Upon entering the church, visitors are immediately struck by the massive altar screen, or raredo,
that explodes with color in a riot of patterns. Inspiring symbols of God, saints, angels and flowers, gaily painted
in reds, greens, blues and yellows, provide enough distraction to make even the dullest sermon bearable.
The natural-colored ceiling
vigas
are laid with
savinas
that, even though they are now quite faded, still show
evidence of their original painted chevron pattern in alternating colors of red, blue and yellow. Offset by
beautiful Southwestern inspired candlesticks, chandeliers, wall sconces and other decorations, the church’s overall
effect is one of perfect harmony, unmarred by gaudy modern additions.
landmarks
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As priests prepare for Mass, they are reminded by a tile plaque in the sacristy to pray for the intentions of the three
Cudahy sisters, who donated the money for Mount Carmel’s construction. (Photo by Stephen Kinnard)
This interior view of Mount Carmel shows the deliberately composed program of Southwestern-inspired decoration,
highlighted by magnificent chandeliers hanging in the central nave. (Photo by Lynn P. Kirst)