ARCHITECTURE, DESIGN AND PLACES OF WORSHIP

In general terms, the practice of architecture can be defined as the combining of art and technology to create a positive living environment for a particular use. The form of that environment should never dictate that use but be derived from and give full expression to its purpose.

This is never more true than when designing a place of worship. Such places are often referred to as "houses of God", a somewhat deceptive term. The last thing God needs is another house. What we are really designing is a house for God's people, a house used to nourish the builders of His kingdom.

This distinction has a significant impact on the design of our churches. The spaces we design must project a sense of the sacred and encourage reflective contemplation. At the same time, they must allow for full participation in church functions and celebrations. The presence of the living God is most fully experienced in the assembly of His people. Through shared participation we come to recognize our Lord's working presence in one another.

As the strength of the congregation is necessary for the building of the kingdom, it is critical that our worship spaces foster the fullest understanding of our Christian calling and to encourage the bonding of the faithful into a unified community.

In this sense, our worship spaces should reflect the importance of our faith. They must be elegant and honest but without being ostentatious. They should be constructed to reflect strength and timelessness. They should allow for the gathering of and social interaction among members and they must project to the wider community a sense of welcoming and mission.