The Jewel of Savannah
The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is not the oldest in Savannah. Still, this Gothic Revival cathedral may be the most beautiful and ornate of all the churches. Outside, twin spires stretch toward heaven, dominating the Savannah skyline. Inside, pastel beauty reigns. Mauve and robin's-egg blue grace the walls, along with massive, colorful murals.

above, left: The St. Vincent's Academy concert at Cathedral of St. John the Baptist; above, right: It started with just a few plants. Now the poinsettia tree at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, a favorite of parishioners, boasts more than 350 pots of seasonal blooms.

Marble covers the aisles, while the floors beneath the polished oak pews are made of heart pine. There are stunning stained-glass windows crafted in Austria, while the majestic rose window above the entrance depicts St. Cecilia, patroness of music.

Though its beauty truly needs no adornment, the Cathedral offers the city's most stunning display of Christmas decorations. But don't expect to experience the full effect before Christmas Eve.

"Here at the Cathedral, we try to adhere to the season of Advent," explains Brother Robert Sokolowski, who creates the church's fabulous floral displays. "We start the actual celebration of Christmas at Midnight Mass and go for 12 days."

Over the years, members and visitors alike have come to love Brother Robert's European-style Nativity scene. The collection now fills the right chapel of the church. He adds something new each year. When people leave gifts for the baby Jesus, he simply incorporates the presents into his design.

The seasonal display seems to grow each year, yet Brother Robert has no trouble finding inspiration.

"All I can say is it's a gift from God," he modestly admits. "I've always said I consider the Cathedral to be my pulpit."