 |
| Sacred lighting plan for St. John Vianney Catholic Church in Houston, TX |
As Catholics, our worship spaces must be functional and aesthetically and architecturally pleasing, with the primary requirement being liturgically and devotionally correct. Another important criterion specific to Catholic environments is liturgical focal points that mirror our journey to eternal life.
This strategic illumination—through time and intensity—draws us from the baptistry; down the main aisle; to the altar and celebration of the Word and Eucharist; and finally to Eucharistic adoration and devotional themes and images, such as the Blessed Mother, patron saints, and Stations of the Cross. This is the Church’s Theology of Light, which requires lighting to move with these actions to stay close to Christ’s sacramental presence and the varied forms of adoration, prayer, and meditation.
 |
| Narthex design with cross-shaped skylight |
A church building should symbolize our life-long pilgrimage to be with God and the eternal home for which we long. Its spaces should guide us to places where we can hear the Word of God and his promise of salvation. The pathways, entryways, seating, liturgical layout, and architectural detailing, along with their accompanying illumination, must all convey an invitation to embark on this spiritual journey.
Defined spaces must be allocated for the actions and celebrations of the sacraments while also addressing music and ministry needs. For the sacraments, Church documents require certain furniture, appointments, and space formation that necessitate specific types of lighting to heighten the interaction of people and their focus.
 |
| Illuminated Stations of the Cross |
Active spaces for gathering to celebrate the liturgies of the Word and Eucharist should be bright, uplifting, and conducive to interaction of people. Passive spaces for reconciliation, meditation, devotion, and before and after liturgies and other celebrations should be softly lit, somber, and intimate, providing a sense of the sacred and healing. At times, the same area must serve dual purposes; therefore, the lighting should reflect the character required for both active and passive use.
The church environment should also embody hospitality and caring. Spaces, finishes, lighting, and acoustic design must all reinforce these interactions. Accessible and well-lit gathering areas, drinking fountains, restrooms, and seating should always consider the needs of the elderly, handicapped, and hearing impaired.
 |
| St. Francis statue with focal lighting |
Organizing a Catholic space, its lighting, and its lighting controls to facilitate appropriate usage and settings is crucial. Control stations enable easy application of various pre-set options for specific liturgical occasions and seasons. The introduction of wireless master panels in the sacristy and balcony areas now allows these scenes to be set easily with an iPad.
To implement this vital component of our sacred space, we must educate the community and all professionals involved in a project about liturgical design, types of lighting, and related lighting controls. Contact us to learn how our programs assist parish teams in developing functional and inspiring holistic Catholic environments for church restorations, church renovations, and new church construction.
 |
| Custom liturgical scene lighting |
Comments
Post a Comment