Community Corner
Holy Cross Mausoleum Unveils Symbols of the Holy Spirit in New Open-Air Sanctuary
Join us October 11–12 in North Arlington to experience sacred art and explore pre-planning options at Holy Cross Cemetery & Mausoleum.
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North Arlington, NJ – A new chapter in sacred art has opened at Holy Cross Cemetery & Mausoleum with the unveiling of the Symbols of the Holy Spirit mosaics inside its recently completed Open-Air Mausoleum of the Holy Spirit. The radiant works, created by internationally recognized artists Alexander and Daniela Mandradjiev of Alexander Studio, transform the mausoleum into a vibrant space of reflection and prayer.
Commissioned by Catholic Cemeteries of the Archdiocese of Newark in 2024, the nine mosaics symbolize the essence of the Spirit—the Dove, Flame, Light, Water, Wind, Lamp, Hands, Clouds, and Oil—each crafted from thousands of pieces of Venetian glass, precious stones, and 24K gold leaf. Conceptual sketches by the couple’s son, cinematic illustrator Alexander Mandradjiev Jr., helped bring the designs to life.
Alexander Mandradjiev reflected on the artistic challenge of the project.
“Thousands of colors flow through millions of pieces of glass and stone, bringing the murals to life with subtle movement and beauty. “It was important to us that the art itself breathe with the same energy as the Spirit it represents.”
His wife and collaborator, Daniela, emphasized the spiritual dimension:
“Every mosaic is more than an image—it is a prayer in color and light. Our hope is that these works inspire peace, faith, and contemplation for all who come to this sacred place.”
A Marriage of Faith and Art
The new mosaics continue a legacy of artistic collaboration between Holy Cross and Alexander Studio. In 2013, the husband-and-wife team completed the final expansion of the Chapel Mausoleum, producing six monumental murals depicting the six days of Creation from the Book of Genesis. Alongside these works stand a hand-carved Linden wood crucifix, and four life-size statues of revered women of the Church—Mother Teresa, Mother Cabrini, Mother Marianne Cope, and Mother Elizabeth Ann Seton—crafted in Italy.
These masterpieces represent a true union of faith and art, blending Scripture, tradition, and craftsmanship into the sacred grounds of Holy Cross. Housed in the original mausoleum—now 98 percent reserved—they stand as a testament to timeless devotion. Today, the newly opened Open-Air Mausoleum of the Holy Spirit and the forthcoming Chapel Mausoleum of Our Lady extend this legacy, offering families meaningful new spaces for remembrance and the preservation of their heritage.
You’re Invited
Come and experience these extraordinary works of sacred art in person at Holy Cross Cemetery & Mausoleum during our Open House Weekend on Saturday, October 11, and Sunday, October 12, from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.
Located in North Arlington, Bergen County—just minutes from New York City with breathtaking skyline views—Holy Cross offers a setting of beauty, peace, and reflection.
During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to:
- Tour the newly opened Open-Air Mausoleum of the Holy Spirit
- Preview the forthcoming Chapel Mausoleum of Our Lady
- Speak with our compassionate Memorial Planning Advisors about pre-planning and memorial options
Special offers include 2025 price protection and 0% interest financing through October 13. To RSVP for this limited opportunity, and to experience a captivating slideshow of the mosaic artwork, please click this link or go to Open House Weekend – Holy Cross – Catholic Cemeteries or send an email to: cemetery@rcan.org.
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