Category Archives: Built of Living Stones

Let’s wrap up the document … § 257 § Church architecture embodies the Gospel and awakens true liturgical piety in all believers, drawing them into the life of the Triune God.(Catechism 1079-1109) The eucharistic piety around which churches are built … Continue reading →

A great deal of confidence in blending tradition with modern creativity: § 253 § The coexistence of past and present called for in renovating and restoring church art and architecture is not without rich, multilayered and successful precedent. “The Church … Continue reading →

Let’s take a longer look at the reservation of the Eucharist in a renovated church. § 247 § In an earlier chapter, the issue of the location of the tabernacle was covered. The structure of the existing building will determine … Continue reading →

Two issues today. First, the altar. The one altar: § 245 § In the construction of new churches, there should be only one altar to signify the one Eucharist and the one Lord, Jesus Christ, who gathers the community at … Continue reading →

What to do when a beloved church building must be renovated? § 240 § When renovation of a church is to be undertaken or when it becomes necessary to raze an old church, special care is needed. A church that … Continue reading →

Let’s tackle the very delicate situation when it is discerned that an existing church building must be significantly altered. § 238 § When a parish constructs a new building, there are many options available for responding to the liturgical needs … Continue reading →

I think it is possible to take good care of sacred things without giving the appearance of extreme scrupulosity. The sacrarium assists with this: § 236 § The sacristy near the sanctuary will usually contain the sacrarium, the special sink … Continue reading →

How secure is your church building? § 235 § Distressing though it may be, the contemporary reality compels the Church to be mindful also of security issues for the church building. This is appropriate not only for the sake of … Continue reading →

Some sound thinking on sacristies: § 234 § Well designed, well equipped, and well organized sacristies contribute to the smooth function of the liturgy and to the maintenance and preservation of vesture, vessels, linens, and other liturgical appointments. Since the … Continue reading →

As with sound, natural light is a good starting point. But a building of any size is going to require some enhancement, just by being an interior space: § 228 § Light is a powerful symbol for the followers of … Continue reading →

Some parishes are still commissioning pipe organs, and pipe chests need to be accommodated: § 226 § Musical instruments, especially the pipe organ, have long added to the beauty and prayerfulness of Catholic worship.(SC 120) Planning sufficient space for the … Continue reading →

Acoustics–probably the very first physical concern for a church. § 221 § Silence is the ground of all prayer. From contemplative silence emerge the sung and spoken prayer of the entire assembly and the prayers and proclamations of the various … Continue reading →

Too often overlooked, especially in cash-strapped communities, a faith community has to look to the long term and not cut corners on basic maintenance. Liturgical items often overlooked: musical instruments, including pipe organs, and baptismal fonts. § 219 § The design … Continue reading →

If a change of direction is needed … § 217 § During the construction phase of the process, the pastor and building committee may find the need to modify the original plan. Because modifications involve additional costs, parishes will want … Continue reading →

Building a church? Build it to last: § 215 § A church building is a lasting expression of a faith community’s life. Because the church building is destined to endure, parishes and the professionals who assist them should ensure that … Continue reading →