Originally published at Orange County Catholic
BR. WILLIAM JOHN WOEGER, FSC, a nationally recognized liturgical designer whose vision helped transform the Crystal Cathedral into Christ Cathedral, has died.
The member of the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools (De La Salle Brothers) passed away unexpectedly on Dec. 17 while in Connecticut. He was 79.
Br. William served on the architectural and sacred art commissions in the endeavor to transform the Crystal Cathedral, world-famous Protestant megachurch, into Orange County’s Catholic worship hub of Christ Cathedral: A Place for Christ Forever. Since the cathedral’s 2019 dedication, Br. William’s contributions — which include designing the crux gemmata above the altar — have left an indelible impression upon countless worshippers and visitors each year.
“He was able to take traditional religious art and give it a contemporary flair,” said Fr. Christopher Smith, who served with Br. William on the cathedral commissions in his role as Christ Cathedral’s first rector. “He was very artistically astute. Every time he presented an idea, he didn’t just put out an idea. He put it in a context that was educational, talking about the artistic design of a particular period.”
Fr. Christopher noted how Br. William was direct, respectful and knowledgeable, yet always
