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During the course of its construction the architect
died suddenly and only afterwards did the builders discover an
error in the plans. There was no staircase to the choir loft.
But worse, at that point of construction, any stairwell would
take up much needed space and disfigure the design.
The nuns began nine days of prayer in honor of St. Joseph, for
he was a carpenter. On the day after their novena
(a
devotion consisting of nine separate days of prayers or
services.) ended, a
shabbily dressed man appeared at the door. The Sisters showed
him their choir loft and the limited space available to erect a
staircase. He assured them he would be able to build one, and so
they let him undertake the task. With him was a burro carrying
the toolbox. He offered to begin at once, if they would allow
him total privacy while he worked. They hired him and he locked
himself in. For three months he permitted no visitors, then he
opened the doors.
When the Mother Superior entered, she stared in amazement, there
in the corner was a beautiful freestanding staircase rising in a
double spiral to the choir loft that may be seen today by
visitors to Santa Fe. Each section is perfectly fitted in a
groove--not a nail being used in its construction. There is no
central pole, no wall attachment, no sign of a nail or
screw--just a few wooden pegs. Moreover, the wood he used was
unlike any the Mother had ever seen. Yet the carpenter had
brought no wood with him. Architects from all sections of the
country go to inspect this unique and marvelous piece of
craftsmanship. |
