Parishioners at St. Andrew the Apostle Catholic Church in Apex are celebrating the completion of a major renovation project. Their parish hall was recently completely renovated and transformed with a new terrazzo floor design rooted in faith, history, and community.
The design was created by parishioner and artist Jenny Barrier, who drew inspiration from St. Andrew, the parish’s patron and a fisherman called by Christ. The floor features twelve fish representing the apostles, drawn into a net that stretches across the entire hall.
“The net is meant to hold us all together, but it isn’t full, and it isn’t closed,” Barrier explained. “It’s a reminder underfoot of who we are meant to be and what we are called to do.”
The installation itself was a detailed, 10-week process. Work began in late June with demolition of the previous flooring and lighting. Crews then installed new electrical systems, lighting, ceiling fans, sound equipment, and cabinetry before pouring and polishing the terrazzo. The process required precision: each line of Barrier’s design was templated, marked, divided, poured, ground, and sealed to bring the vision to life.
“We wanted to have something beautiful – and, if possible, unique – for our floor, something that said ‘St. Andrew’s,’” explained pastor Father John Durbin. “Parishioner Jenny Barrier is a gifted artist and came to the rescue with her beautiful design. Her explanation of how she arrived at it is a wonderful example of theology and art in dialogue.”
Barrier, who serves as head of Art and Environment at St. Andrew, says her hope is that the hall will be a welcoming place for both parishioners and newcomers.
“We can dance, feed each other, pray—all within the open net,” Barrier said. “This space is about outreach, education, and community. It belongs to everyone.”
Learn more about the project from the artist and project manager on the parish website.
