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"Let this be a sign of our faith in the Lord every time we drive by and look at it."
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The new, onion-shaped structure, topped by a 6 foot golden cross, is three times the size of the one that sat atop the landmark church that was destroyed on Sept. 10, 2004.
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The jewel of the Byzantine-styyle building is a 20 foot catheral ceiling. Stained glass windows that will draw natural light into the 2,700 square foot building will be installed below the dome. The outside will be adorned with plum color bricks, set off by cream color bricks around the windows.
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On Sunday, the curious avoided rocks and dirt piles to get a close look at the new church and the adjoining parish hall.
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Fr. Manolev said the mild winter has allowed builders to work on the new church "which is coming very fast now."
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The wiring is started, the plumbing is roughed in, the fire alarm system is in, air conditioning is being put in. Fr. Cyril indicated the facility would be ready by August.
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Wearing a festive gold vestment and miter, Bishop Chomnycky walked slowly around the dome, sprinkling it with holy water as he blessed it and the cross.
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Bishop Chomnycky and the Rev Cyril Manolev, St Mary's pastor, offered their blessings from a table covered in white cloth placed in front of the dome.
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Several parish priests from surrounding communities joined in the ceremonies.
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Bishop Chomnycky and Fr. Cyril chat with State Representative Linda
Orange and First Selectman Jenny Contois after the ceremony.
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