This text was obtained via automated optical character recognition.
It has not been edited and may therefore contain several errors.

---

Our Lady of the Gulf Catholic Church,
surrounded by water on three sides, and buffeted by numerous hurricanes, catholic and other inhabitants of Bay St. Louis have seen this glorious wonder of faith and architecture survive and have drawn strength from her massive walls.
Beautifully set atop a high ridge overlooking the Bay of St. Louis sits the glorious church of Our Lady of the Gulf. Erected in 1908 to replace the previous parish church which had been destroyed by fire, Our Lady of the Gulf is a fine example of Romanesque architecture, a style borrowed from the earlier Greeks. This church can easily seat 800 and is remarkable for its excellent proportions - always the essential element in the Greek School - where the impression is given of dignity combined with elaborate space.
At first glance the building seems far greater than it actually is. This is indeed the key to the beauty of the Parthenon --that perfect example of Grecian style in proportion and grace.
The Early Church Fathers saw much significance in the Church structure and the community and its architects took this into careful consideration when building Our Lady of the Gulf. Our Lady of the Gulf is the beloved legacy of the people of Bay St. Louis and many family names may be seen in the elobrate stained glass winows.
Grace is the most descriptive word for Our Lady of the Gulf, both spiritual and architectural. The interior of the church is very elaborate and directing the eyes ever upward, the columns and clerestory windows give further emphasis to the stately lines of the building.
From the main doors at the front of the church, the effect of entering the nave is striking. The stern and strong brick walls with its beautiful stained glass does not adaquately prepare you for the
impact of the spacious harmony and peace of this spiritual haven which you are entering. Painted in the traditional cool blues, tans and gold of a Marian Church, the figure of Our Lady of the Gulf stands in the dome above the High Altar. At the feet of Our Lady is the Gulf of Mexico and old time sailing ships. The form of a dove, the traditional symbol of the Holy Spirit, is hovering over the waters while ministering angels appear alongside Our Lady, all appropriate for this water bound community which in the 1800’s and early Twentieth Century used the water to travel from New Orleans for their summer holiday, or made their living from the bountiful marine life. The Christ Child is held in the arms of His Mother in this dome painting.
The High Altar is a beautiful example of Italian Art. Carrarra marble has been used throughout and was erected to commemorate the first centennial of the parish. The tabernacle lifts high the eyes and thoughts with its beautiful proportion to the altar and altar railing.