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| Education, communication, and clear vision in progress at St. Charles Borromeo in Visalia, CA |
Our journey of faith is shaped and deepened by the sacraments—beginning with baptism and renewed in every celebration of the Eucharist. The spaces where we worship should reflect this sacred rhythm, drawing the faithful into deeper communion with God. That’s why expert guidance is essential when undertaking a liturgical design project of any scale. Liturgical designers help unify a parish’s vision with the Church’s theological and architectural principles, as well as practical building considerations. From the earliest planning meetings to the final artistic touches, they translate complex needs into thoughtful, liturgically sound environments that offer a true glimpse of Heaven.
Church design begins from the altar outward, with clear sightlines to enhance participation in the liturgy. Seating must be adequate for the parish and provide a sense of gathering around the altar and reserved Eucharist; there must also be proper chairs for the celebrant and deacons. Defined areas should be set aside for sacred actions, music, and various ministries. Active spaces for celebrating the liturgies of the Word and Eucharist should be uplifting and allow for interaction. Passive spaces for reconciliation, meditation, devotion, and before and after services and other celebrations should be intimate and contemplative to convey sacredness and healing. Gathering spaces, drinking fountains, restrooms, and seating must all accommodate the elderly, handicapped, and hearing impaired.
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| Rolf explains proper space formation of his proposed vision to St. Pius X in Rochester, NY |
Lighting is used to emphasize these spaces, actions, and art; it should mirror our journey to eternal life and follow Christ’s sacramental presence. Liturgical focal points—through time and intensity—must draw us from the baptistry to the altar; to the celebration of the Word and Eucharist; and finally to adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and devotional themes such as the Blessed Mother, patron saints, and Stations of the Cross. Scenes for liturgical occasions and seasons should be pre-set on a wireless master control that can be managed remotely to heighten the interaction of people and their focus.
Acoustics and sound reinforcement are also often overlooked, at great cost. Three issues need to be addressed to achieve harmony. First, excessive hard surfaces cause speech, song, and instruments to reverberate and echo, impeding the ability to hear any of them clearly. The second problem is the opposite: too many absorbent surfaces result in flat sounds that do not project well. Third, the location of the source must also be considered, or where the aambo, choir, and instruments are placed. They belong where notes can roll along a surface and, at the end of that voice or instrument projection, encounter either solid or soft material depending on the desired effect. Assistive listening devices also should be provided for those with hearing loss.
Finally, sacred spaces should reflect hospitality, caring, and community. Liturgical furnishings, artwork, statuary, art glass, appointments, interior finishes and details, and flooring must be of high quality and in harmony with the environment. The altar—the center of liturgical celebration, where we accept Christ’s sacrifice—should incorporate meaningful details and contain a reliquary. The crucifix must be in proportion to the space and large enough to see from the back of the sanctuary. All sacred imagery should convey divine truth, inspire love, and be unique to the church; local artists should be used, and patron saint images should be integrated. Parishioners must be able to pray the Stations to be reminded that Jesus saved them from sin. For the sacraments, church guidelines require special appointments.
This is just a brief overview of the thousands of details involved in developing a liturgical project. Liturgical designers specialize in understanding the vision of church leadership and creating comprehensive, liturgically correct plans that are completed on time and within budget. The end result is a beautiful, sacred environment that not only strengthens Catholic identity and nurtures the community but also meets the needs of future generations.
Reach out to discover how expert church design can transform your sacred space.
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| The Rohn team presents their artistic vision, space formation, and proposed materials for St. John Vianney in Houston, TX |
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