St. Rita Church has possibly world’s ‘most complete collection’ of Peter Recker works

Peter Recker created the mosaic work for the church’s baptistry and the triangular bronze ambry installed in the right-side wall, and also designed the baptismal font. “The mosaic is of [St.] Philip baptizing the Ethiopian,” as told in Acts 8:26-40, says Caleb Legg. “It’s another nod to the African American, symbolizing that Blacks have been part of the Catholic faith from the very beginning of Christianity.” As for the bronze ambry, Legg notes that Recker “created all the bronze works in the church.” (Submitted photos by Caleb Legg)

By Natalie Hoefer

After years of research, Caleb Legg, a member of and historian for St. Rita Parish in Indianapolis, believes St. Rita Church is possibly the world’s “most complete collection” of art by renowned mid-20th century German-born Catholic artist Peter Recker (1913-2003).

“I’ve researched all of his works in Europe, and I’ve researched his works here in the United States,” he says. “I can’t find a more complete collection anywhere.”

Legg, an architectural expert, has done extensive research on the faith community and its structures. Much of his work was done for preservation grant applications, as well as for the inclusion of the parish’s campus on the list of National Register of Historic Places. (Related story: ‘Hidden jewel’ St. Rita Church receives recognition for historical, cultural impact)

Recker’s pieces in the church include mosaics and bronze work. He also designed its stained-glass windows, tabernacle, most of the sanctuary furniture and more.

“He was very influential in Europe, and he was a person who was on the cutting edge of what was desirable at the time,” says Legg.

“He cut his teeth [in his career] restoring the odious depiction of Christ called

‘Sol Invictus’ in the necropolis of the tomb of Saint Peter” under St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican. “You can see his inspiration from that work in the large mosaic behind [St. Rita’s] altar—the chariot wheels, the horses, the stylistic figure.”

Pictured below are photos of some of Recker’s pieces and designs in St. Rita Church, with explanations by Legg. †

Click on the image below for a larger version