top of page

THIS CHURCH IS A GREAT EXAMPLE OF THE VARITY OF ARCHITECTURAL FORM AND STYLE THAT A CHURCH CAN EXPRESS. IT'S FORM IS A CLASSIC BASILICA LAYOUT. LINEAR WITH AN APSE AT THE END. COLUMNS FLANKING THE SIDES. VERY FAMILIAR TO ANYONE ENTERING A CHURCH. BUT IT'S STYLE IS MORE MODERN. THE PIERS MOVE INWARD AT THE TOP, BUT DON'T CONNECT TO FORM AN ARCH. IT IS MADE OF CAST IN PLACE CONCRETE INSTEAD OF STONE. IT'S DECORATION, ALTHOUGH TRADITIONAL, STAINED GLASS AND MOASIC'S IS MODERN IN STYLE. THIS IS A GREAT EXAMPLE, THAT CHURCHES CAN VARY IN STYLE AND STILL BE BEAUTIFUL AND INSPIRING.
THEY CAN ALSO VARY IN FORM AND BE BEAUTIFUL, BUT THAT IS FOR ANOTHER POST. WHAT DO YOU FIND BEAUTIFUL ABOUT THIS CHURCH? #liturgical #liturgicaldesign #catholic #catholichurch #churcharchitecture #architecturephotography #architecture #dioceseparis #paris @dioceseparis

THIS CHURCH IS A GREAT EXAMPLE OF THE VARITY OF ARCHITECTURAL FORM AND STYLE THAT A CHURCH CAN EXPRESS. IT'S FORM IS A CLASSIC BASILICA LAYOUT. LINEAR WITH AN APSE AT THE END. COLUMNS FLANKING THE SIDES. VERY FAMILIAR TO ANYONE ENTERING A CHURCH. BUT IT'S STYLE IS MORE MODERN. THE PIERS MOVE INWARD AT THE TOP, BUT DON'T CONNECT TO FORM AN ARCH. IT IS MADE OF CAST IN PLACE CONCRETE INSTEAD OF STONE. IT'S DECORATION, ALTHOUGH TRADITIONAL, STAINED GLASS AND MOASIC'S IS MODERN IN STYLE. THIS IS A GREAT EXAMPLE, THAT CHURCHES CAN VARY IN STYLE AND STILL BE BEAUTIFUL AND INSPIRING.
THEY CAN ALSO VARY IN FORM AND BE BEAUTIFUL, BUT THAT IS FOR ANOTHER POST. WHAT DO YOU FIND BEAUTIFUL ABOUT THIS CHURCH? #liturgical #liturgicaldesign #catholic #catholichurch #churcharchitecture #architecturephotography #architecture #dioceseparis #paris @dioceseparis

#church #churcharchitecture #catholic #quotes #inspiration #architectire #liturgical #architecturalphotography

#church #churcharchitecture #catholic #quotes #inspiration #architectire #liturgical #architecturalphotography

Église Notre-Dame du Rosaire

Église Notre-Dame du Rosaire

#catholic #catholicchurch #liturgical

#catholic #catholicchurch #liturgical

LITURGICAL DESIGN CONSIDERATION:
LIGHTING. WHEN LIGHTING A PIECE OF ART, IT IS IMPORTANT TO CONSIDER WHAT IS BEING HIGHLIGHTED. IN THIS PIECE, THE LIGHT IS CENTERED ON THE PAINTING, WHICH MAKES SOME LOGICAL SENSE, BUT BECAUSE THE SUBJECT IS PETER BEING CRUCIFIED UPSIDE DOWN, THE LIGHT IS FOCUSED ON HIS GROIN. IT IS BEST TO PROVIDE EVEN LIGHT OVER THE ENTIRE ART PIECE AND ALLOW THE OBSERVERS EYE TO TAKE IN ALL THE DETAILS, RATHER THAN FOCUS ON ONE AREA OF A PIECE OF ART. #liturgical #liturgicaldesign #church #churcharchitecture #lightingdesign

LITURGICAL DESIGN CONSIDERATION:
LIGHTING. WHEN LIGHTING A PIECE OF ART, IT IS IMPORTANT TO CONSIDER WHAT IS BEING HIGHLIGHTED. IN THIS PIECE, THE LIGHT IS CENTERED ON THE PAINTING, WHICH MAKES SOME LOGICAL SENSE, BUT BECAUSE THE SUBJECT IS PETER BEING CRUCIFIED UPSIDE DOWN, THE LIGHT IS FOCUSED ON HIS GROIN. IT IS BEST TO PROVIDE EVEN LIGHT OVER THE ENTIRE ART PIECE AND ALLOW THE OBSERVERS EYE TO TAKE IN ALL THE DETAILS, RATHER THAN FOCUS ON ONE AREA OF A PIECE OF ART. #liturgical #liturgicaldesign #church #churcharchitecture #lightingdesign

Church of Saint-Esprit, Paris France

Church of Saint-Esprit, Paris France

Basilique Cathédrale Saint-Denis, France.

#catholic #catholicchurch #frenchchurch #bascilica #liturgical #liturgicaldesign

Basilique Cathédrale Saint-Denis, France.

#catholic #catholicchurch #frenchchurch #bascilica #liturgical #liturgicaldesign

John the Baptist beckons you. Church of St. Margaret 36 Rue Saint-Bernard, 75011 Paris, France #catholic #catholicchurch #paris #liturgical #baptism #font

John the Baptist beckons you. Church of St. Margaret 36 Rue Saint-Bernard, 75011 Paris, France #catholic #catholicchurch #paris #liturgical #baptism #font

Église Sainte-Radegonde de Giverny

Église Sainte-Radegonde de Giverny

CHURCHES OF PARIS, THE YEAR OF OUR LORD, 2025.

CHURCHES OF PARIS, THE YEAR OF OUR LORD, 2025.

Sainte Chapelle Entrance. #saintechapelle #catholic #catholicchurch #gothic #Paris #liturgical #liturgicaldesign @sainte_chapelle

Sainte Chapelle Entrance. #saintechapelle #catholic #catholicchurch #gothic #Paris #liturgical #liturgicaldesign @sainte_chapelle

THE ARCHED DECORATIVE PANEL AT THE ENTRY OF A CHURCH IS CALLED A TYMPANUM. THIS CARVED STONE PANEL AT THE CATHEDRAL IN WASHINGTON DC, REPRESENTS GOD'S CREATION OF HUMANITY. #episcopal #espicopalchurch #cathedral #washingtondc #washingtoncathedral #church #churcharchitecture #stonecarving #liturgical @wncathedral

THE ARCHED DECORATIVE PANEL AT THE ENTRY OF A CHURCH IS CALLED A TYMPANUM. THIS CARVED STONE PANEL AT THE CATHEDRAL IN WASHINGTON DC, REPRESENTS GOD'S CREATION OF HUMANITY. #episcopal #espicopalchurch #cathedral #washingtondc #washingtoncathedral #church #churcharchitecture #stonecarving #liturgical @wncathedral

THIS IS A SIDE CHAPEL THAT HAS A DIFFERENT SEATING LAYOUT
THAN WHAT YOU MAY BE USE TO. AS YOU CAN SEE THE AMBO (OR LECTERN) IS LOCATED DIRECTLY ACROSS FROM THE ALTAR
INSTEAD OF NEXT TO. ALSO THE CHAIRS ARE ALL FACING EACH OTHER RATHER THAN ALL FACING IN THE SAME DIRECTION. REGARDLESS OF WHAT MIGHT BE SEE IN MOST CHURCHES, THERE IS NO ONE WAY TO ARRANGE THE LAYOUT. THIS LAYOUT BALANCES THE AMBO AND THE ALTAR. IT ALSO ALLOWS FOR MORE INTERACTION WITH PEOPLE AS YOU CAN SEE THEM FACE TO FACE INSTEAD OF LOOKING AT THE BACK OF SOMEONE HEAD. THIS TYPE OF LAYOUT IS MORE COMMON FOR SMALL CHURCHES OR SIDE CHAPELS TO CREATE A MORE INTIMATE SETTING WITH FEWER PEOPLE. @stmarysca #catholic #catholicchurch #liturgical #liturgicaldesign #altar #ambo #seating #architecturalphotography

THIS IS A SIDE CHAPEL THAT HAS A DIFFERENT SEATING LAYOUT
THAN WHAT YOU MAY BE USE TO. AS YOU CAN SEE THE AMBO (OR LECTERN) IS LOCATED DIRECTLY ACROSS FROM THE ALTAR
INSTEAD OF NEXT TO. ALSO THE CHAIRS ARE ALL FACING EACH OTHER RATHER THAN ALL FACING IN THE SAME DIRECTION. REGARDLESS OF WHAT MIGHT BE SEE IN MOST CHURCHES, THERE IS NO ONE WAY TO ARRANGE THE LAYOUT. THIS LAYOUT BALANCES THE AMBO AND THE ALTAR. IT ALSO ALLOWS FOR MORE INTERACTION WITH PEOPLE AS YOU CAN SEE THEM FACE TO FACE INSTEAD OF LOOKING AT THE BACK OF SOMEONE HEAD. THIS TYPE OF LAYOUT IS MORE COMMON FOR SMALL CHURCHES OR SIDE CHAPELS TO CREATE A MORE INTIMATE SETTING WITH FEWER PEOPLE. @stmarysca #catholic #catholicchurch #liturgical #liturgicaldesign #altar #ambo #seating #architecturalphotography

IN THE DOME OF THIS CHURCH WE HAVE A PAINTING OF JESUS. WE SEE THE TYPICAL IC/XC WHICH STANDS FOR JESUS CHRIST. BUT WE ALSO SEE AN N/K. THE N/K MEANS HE WINS OR CONQUERS. IN ORTHODOX AND EASTERN CHURCHES THIS IS CALLED CHRIST PANTOCRATOR.
IN WESTERN CHURCHES THIS IS CALLED
CHRIST IN MAJESTY. #catholic #catholichurch #pantocrater #liturgicaldesign #liturgy #churcharchitecture #catholic

IN THE DOME OF THIS CHURCH WE HAVE A PAINTING OF JESUS. WE SEE THE TYPICAL IC/XC WHICH STANDS FOR JESUS CHRIST. BUT WE ALSO SEE AN N/K. THE N/K MEANS HE WINS OR CONQUERS. IN ORTHODOX AND EASTERN CHURCHES THIS IS CALLED CHRIST PANTOCRATOR.
IN WESTERN CHURCHES THIS IS CALLED
CHRIST IN MAJESTY. #catholic #catholichurch #pantocrater #liturgicaldesign #liturgy #churcharchitecture #catholic

The connection of the font to the alter can be a powerful symbol. We join Christ in his death through the sacrament of baptism and we also join him in his resurrection. @smyouthmin #catholic #catholicchurch #baptism #baptismalfont #liturgical #liturgicaldesign

The connection of the font to the alter can be a powerful symbol. We join Christ in his death through the sacrament of baptism and we also join him in his resurrection. @smyouthmin #catholic #catholicchurch #baptism #baptismalfont #liturgical #liturgicaldesign

Over the time that I have been documenting church and learning about these spaces, I have come to have an appreciation for thoughtful and intentional design. I have come to not care about style preference or traditional vs modern designs arguments. But how a design intentionally communicates the God that is worshiped in that space.

To that end I have in my understanding of design and in my own personal theological understanding, become more aware of the power of the sacraments. Their ability to communicate the timeless truths of the church in an immediate way as well as in a meditative ongoing way. When I look at sacred spaces like the one shown here that are stripped of liturgical elements, I’m left to wonder what is the God that they are pointing to?

This isn’t to say that liturgical elements have the ability to communicate the totality of God. In fact, they only have that ability when we experience them. They can only be seen, interacted with in the midst of community. As a designer, I can only dictate and influence what is seen. The physical elements of a space. The unseen is left up to the worshiping community and God.
#churcharchitecture #church #liturgical #liturgicaldesign #sacrament #sacraments #theology

Over the time that I have been documenting church and learning about these spaces, I have come to have an appreciation for thoughtful and intentional design. I have come to not care about style preference or traditional vs modern designs arguments. But how a design intentionally communicates the God that is worshiped in that space.

To that end I have in my understanding of design and in my own personal theological understanding, become more aware of the power of the sacraments. Their ability to communicate the timeless truths of the church in an immediate way as well as in a meditative ongoing way. When I look at sacred spaces like the one shown here that are stripped of liturgical elements, I’m left to wonder what is the God that they are pointing to?

This isn’t to say that liturgical elements have the ability to communicate the totality of God. In fact, they only have that ability when we experience them. They can only be seen, interacted with in the midst of community. As a designer, I can only dictate and influence what is seen. The physical elements of a space. The unseen is left up to the worshiping community and God.
#churcharchitecture #church #liturgical #liturgicaldesign #sacrament #sacraments #theology

St. Alban's Episcopal

St. Alban's Episcopal

National Cathedral, Washington DC. @wncathedral #church #churcharchitecture #liturgical #liturgicaldesign #episcopal #episcopalchurch

National Cathedral, Washington DC. @wncathedral #church #churcharchitecture #liturgical #liturgicaldesign #episcopal #episcopalchurch

THERE ARE MANY STRANGE
DETAILS THAT COULD BE USED ON A CHURCH. IN THIS EXAMPLE FROM LA FAMILIE SAGRADA, WE SEE A STRANGE GRID OF NUMBERS. THIS IS CALLED A MAGIC SQUARE. IN A MAGIC SQUARE IF YOU ADD UP ANY LINE OF NUMBERS, VERTICAL OR HORIZONTAL, THEY PROVIDE YOU WITH THE SAME NUMBER. IN THIS CASE 33. WHICH IS THE AGE OF CHRIST WHEN HE WAS CRUCIFIED. WITHIN THE CONTEXT OF THE LARGER FACADE ARTWORK THIS MAKES MORE SENSE AS THIS IS THE PASSION FACADE AND IS
DEDICATED TO THE LAST DAYS OF CHRIST. AS YOU CAN SEE THE SCULPTURE NEXT TO IT APPEARS TO BE JUDAS KISSING JESUS TO LET THE SOLDIERS KNOW WHO TO ARREST. MATTHEW 26:47-49. #catholic #catholicchurch #liturgical #liturgicalart #numerology #sculpture #sculptureart @basilicasagradafamilia

THERE ARE MANY STRANGE
DETAILS THAT COULD BE USED ON A CHURCH. IN THIS EXAMPLE FROM LA FAMILIE SAGRADA, WE SEE A STRANGE GRID OF NUMBERS. THIS IS CALLED A MAGIC SQUARE. IN A MAGIC SQUARE IF YOU ADD UP ANY LINE OF NUMBERS, VERTICAL OR HORIZONTAL, THEY PROVIDE YOU WITH THE SAME NUMBER. IN THIS CASE 33. WHICH IS THE AGE OF CHRIST WHEN HE WAS CRUCIFIED. WITHIN THE CONTEXT OF THE LARGER FACADE ARTWORK THIS MAKES MORE SENSE AS THIS IS THE PASSION FACADE AND IS
DEDICATED TO THE LAST DAYS OF CHRIST. AS YOU CAN SEE THE SCULPTURE NEXT TO IT APPEARS TO BE JUDAS KISSING JESUS TO LET THE SOLDIERS KNOW WHO TO ARREST. MATTHEW 26:47-49. #catholic #catholicchurch #liturgical #liturgicalart #numerology #sculpture #sculptureart @basilicasagradafamilia

IN A TRADITIONAL CHURCH CATHEDRAL THERE ARE GARGOYLES AND GROTESQUE'S. THEY ARE STONE CARVINGS THAT ACT AS DRAINAGE STRUCTURES TO REMOVE WATER FROM THE BUILDING. THESE STONES ARE ACTUALLY "T" SHAPED AND ARE BUILT INTO THE WALL TO SUPPORT THEM. THIS EXAMPLE SHOWS HOW THE WATER WOULD BE COMING OUT THROUGH THE MOUTH OF A SKULL. WHILE BOTH ARE WHIMSICAL OR EVIL
LOOKING CREATURES, A GARGOYLE HAS THE WATER COMING THROUGH THE MOUTH WHILE A GROTESQUE HAS THE WATER RUNNING OF A PROMINENT FEATURE. BOTH ARE USED TO DIRECT WATER AWAY FROM THE WALLS OF THE BUILDING. #church #churcharchitecture #cathedral #architecture #liturgical #episcopal @wncathedral

IN A TRADITIONAL CHURCH CATHEDRAL THERE ARE GARGOYLES AND GROTESQUE'S. THEY ARE STONE CARVINGS THAT ACT AS DRAINAGE STRUCTURES TO REMOVE WATER FROM THE BUILDING. THESE STONES ARE ACTUALLY "T" SHAPED AND ARE BUILT INTO THE WALL TO SUPPORT THEM. THIS EXAMPLE SHOWS HOW THE WATER WOULD BE COMING OUT THROUGH THE MOUTH OF A SKULL. WHILE BOTH ARE WHIMSICAL OR EVIL
LOOKING CREATURES, A GARGOYLE HAS THE WATER COMING THROUGH THE MOUTH WHILE A GROTESQUE HAS THE WATER RUNNING OF A PROMINENT FEATURE. BOTH ARE USED TO DIRECT WATER AWAY FROM THE WALLS OF THE BUILDING. #church #churcharchitecture #cathedral #architecture #liturgical #episcopal @wncathedral

St Lukes Episcopal Church, San Francisco. #episcopalchurch #church @stlukessf

St Lukes Episcopal Church, San Francisco. #episcopalchurch #church @stlukessf

CROSSES, THOUGH SIMPLE OBJECTS, CAN COMMUNICATE A LOT. IN THIS CROSS, WE HAVE THREE ELEMENTS: FIRST, THE CROSS ITSELF; SECONDLY, A CROWN; THIRDLY, A RADIANT SUN BEHIND IT. THESE THREE ITEMS TOGETHER HELP TO COMMUNICATE THAT JESUS CHRIST
WILLINGLY DIED ON THE CROSS AND WAS CROWNED CHRIST THE KING. THE RADIANT SUN BEHIND THE CROSS REPRESENTS THAT THIS GOSPEL IS PROCLAIMED TO THE FOUR CORNERS OF THE EARTH. #church #churcharchitecture #liturgicalart #liturgy

CROSSES, THOUGH SIMPLE OBJECTS, CAN COMMUNICATE A LOT. IN THIS CROSS, WE HAVE THREE ELEMENTS: FIRST, THE CROSS ITSELF; SECONDLY, A CROWN; THIRDLY, A RADIANT SUN BEHIND IT. THESE THREE ITEMS TOGETHER HELP TO COMMUNICATE THAT JESUS CHRIST
WILLINGLY DIED ON THE CROSS AND WAS CROWNED CHRIST THE KING. THE RADIANT SUN BEHIND THE CROSS REPRESENTS THAT THIS GOSPEL IS PROCLAIMED TO THE FOUR CORNERS OF THE EARTH. #church #churcharchitecture #liturgicalart #liturgy

LITURGICAL DESIGN CONSIDERATION:
CONTROL. WE NEED TO APPROACH THE LITURGY WITH MORE HUMILITY. WE ARE NOT IN CONTROL OF WHAT WILL HAPPEN DURING WORSHIP. WE CAN PREPARE THE WAY FOR AN ENCOUNTER WITH GOD, BUT WE CANNOT MAKE IT HAPPEN. AND WE HAVE NO WAY TO PREDICT IN ADVANCE WHAT WILL HAPPEN TO US IF WE DO NOT MEET THE LORD. WE MUST GIVE UP OUR ILLUSION OF BEING IN CHARGE AND LET GOD BE GOD. LAWRENCE E. MICK, LIVING BAPTISM DAILY. AS GOOD AS WE MAY FEEL OUR DESIGNS ARE, AS MUCH TRUST WE HAVE THE IN THE LEADERSHIP OF A CHURCH TO PREPARE AND PRESENT A GOOD SERVICE, WE ULTIMATELY DO NOT HAVE ANY CONTROL OVER WHAT HAPPENS ON A SUNDAY MORNING. WE SHOULD STRIVE TO PREPARE THE BEST PLACES FOR PEOPLE TO ENCOUNTER GOD, BUT ULTIMATELY WE ARE POWERLESS IN OUR ABILITY TO MAKE PEOPLE ENCOUNTER GOD. ONLY GOD CAN DO THAT. #liturgical #liturgicaldesign #church #churchdesign #quote

LITURGICAL DESIGN CONSIDERATION:
CONTROL. WE NEED TO APPROACH THE LITURGY WITH MORE HUMILITY. WE ARE NOT IN CONTROL OF WHAT WILL HAPPEN DURING WORSHIP. WE CAN PREPARE THE WAY FOR AN ENCOUNTER WITH GOD, BUT WE CANNOT MAKE IT HAPPEN. AND WE HAVE NO WAY TO PREDICT IN ADVANCE WHAT WILL HAPPEN TO US IF WE DO NOT MEET THE LORD. WE MUST GIVE UP OUR ILLUSION OF BEING IN CHARGE AND LET GOD BE GOD. LAWRENCE E. MICK, LIVING BAPTISM DAILY. AS GOOD AS WE MAY FEEL OUR DESIGNS ARE, AS MUCH TRUST WE HAVE THE IN THE LEADERSHIP OF A CHURCH TO PREPARE AND PRESENT A GOOD SERVICE, WE ULTIMATELY DO NOT HAVE ANY CONTROL OVER WHAT HAPPENS ON A SUNDAY MORNING. WE SHOULD STRIVE TO PREPARE THE BEST PLACES FOR PEOPLE TO ENCOUNTER GOD, BUT ULTIMATELY WE ARE POWERLESS IN OUR ABILITY TO MAKE PEOPLE ENCOUNTER GOD. ONLY GOD CAN DO THAT. #liturgical #liturgicaldesign #church #churchdesign #quote

@cathedralphila

@cathedralphila

THE HEART IS A COMMON THEME IN CHRISTIAN ICONOGRAPHY. IN THIS EXAMPLE THERE ARE SEVEN SWORDS PIERCING A HEART. THE SEVEN SWORDS REPRESENT THE SEVEN SORROWS THAT MARY HAS TO ENDURE. 1. THE PROPHECY OF SIMEON 2. THE FLIGHT INTO EGYPT 3. LOSS OF THE CHILD JESUS FOR THREE DAYS 4. MARY MEETS JESUS ON HIS WAY TO CALVARY 5. CRUCIFIXION AND DEATH OF JESUS 6. THE BODY OF JESUS TAKEN FROM THE CROSS 7. THE BURIAL OF JESUS. #catholic #catholicchurch #art #liturgical #liturgicaldesign #church

THE HEART IS A COMMON THEME IN CHRISTIAN ICONOGRAPHY. IN THIS EXAMPLE THERE ARE SEVEN SWORDS PIERCING A HEART. THE SEVEN SWORDS REPRESENT THE SEVEN SORROWS THAT MARY HAS TO ENDURE. 1. THE PROPHECY OF SIMEON 2. THE FLIGHT INTO EGYPT 3. LOSS OF THE CHILD JESUS FOR THREE DAYS 4. MARY MEETS JESUS ON HIS WAY TO CALVARY 5. CRUCIFIXION AND DEATH OF JESUS 6. THE BODY OF JESUS TAKEN FROM THE CROSS 7. THE BURIAL OF JESUS. #catholic #catholicchurch #art #liturgical #liturgicaldesign #church

IN OLDER CATHOLIC CHURCHES YOU MAY FIND AN UNUSUAL SECURITY DETAIL. IN SOME CHURCHES THE BAPTISM FOUNT IS LOCATED BEHIND A GATE. THE REASON FOR THIS IS THAT THERE WAS ONCE CONCERN ABOUT PEOPLE SEALING THE HOLY WATER, SO THERE WAS A SECURE LID PUT ON TOP OR IT WAS PUT BEHIND A GATE. THE CONCERN IS NO LONGER PRESENT IN CHURCHES TODAY AND IN FACT YOU WILL FIND BAPTISMAL FONTS TAKING A MORE CENTRAL AND PROMINENT PLACE IN THE OVERALL DESIGN OF THE CHURCH, OFTEN PLACED AT THE ENTRANCE FOR EVERYONE TO INTERACT WITH. #liturgical #liturgicaldesign #baptismal #font #church #catholicchurch

IN OLDER CATHOLIC CHURCHES YOU MAY FIND AN UNUSUAL SECURITY DETAIL. IN SOME CHURCHES THE BAPTISM FOUNT IS LOCATED BEHIND A GATE. THE REASON FOR THIS IS THAT THERE WAS ONCE CONCERN ABOUT PEOPLE SEALING THE HOLY WATER, SO THERE WAS A SECURE LID PUT ON TOP OR IT WAS PUT BEHIND A GATE. THE CONCERN IS NO LONGER PRESENT IN CHURCHES TODAY AND IN FACT YOU WILL FIND BAPTISMAL FONTS TAKING A MORE CENTRAL AND PROMINENT PLACE IN THE OVERALL DESIGN OF THE CHURCH, OFTEN PLACED AT THE ENTRANCE FOR EVERYONE TO INTERACT WITH. #liturgical #liturgicaldesign #baptismal #font #church #catholicchurch

IN EASTERN ORTHODOX CHURCHES YOU WILL FIND A SPECIAL STYLE OF DOME CALLED AN ONION DOME FOR IT'S UNUSUAL BULBOUS SHAPE. THEIR BULBOUS SHAPE AND BRIGHT COLORS MAKE THEM RESEMBLE A BURNING CANDLE THAT CAN BE SEEN BY ALL FROM A DISTANCE. WHEN THESE ARE GROUPED IN A SET OF FIVE, WITH A LARGER CENTER DOME, IT IS MEAN TO REPRESENT THE FOUR EVANGELISTS AND CHRIST. #orthodox #orthodoxchurch #church #liturgical #liturgicaldesign #churcharchitecture #architecturephotography

IN EASTERN ORTHODOX CHURCHES YOU WILL FIND A SPECIAL STYLE OF DOME CALLED AN ONION DOME FOR IT'S UNUSUAL BULBOUS SHAPE. THEIR BULBOUS SHAPE AND BRIGHT COLORS MAKE THEM RESEMBLE A BURNING CANDLE THAT CAN BE SEEN BY ALL FROM A DISTANCE. WHEN THESE ARE GROUPED IN A SET OF FIVE, WITH A LARGER CENTER DOME, IT IS MEAN TO REPRESENT THE FOUR EVANGELISTS AND CHRIST. #orthodox #orthodoxchurch #church #liturgical #liturgicaldesign #churcharchitecture #architecturephotography

MOST CHURCHES RELY ON WHAT IS TYPICALLY SEEN AS A TRADITIONAL PEW CONFIGURATION WHERE ALL THE SEATS ARE FACING TOWARDS THE ALTAR. DESPITE THIS BEING THOUGH OF AS A "TRADITIONAL" LAYOUT, SEATING WASN'T INCLUDED IN CHURCH DESIGN UNTIL 14TH CENTURY. BEFORE THAT MOST CHURCHES DIDN'T HAVE ANY SEATING. GIVEN THAT, WE SHOULD BE FREE TO EXPLORE OTHER SEATING ARRANGEMENTS BESIDES PEWS DIRECTED TOWARDS ALTER. IN THIS CONFIGURATION WE STILL HAVE SEATS FACING AN ALTER, BUT IT IS CENTRALLY LOCATED. THIS ALLOWS FOR THE CONGREGATION TO SEE BOTH THE ALTAR AND EACH OTHER, REINFORCING THE IDEA OF COMMUNITY WITH A CHURCH. #lutheranchurch #valpouniversity #church #seating #liturgical #liturgicaldesign #worship

MOST CHURCHES RELY ON WHAT IS TYPICALLY SEEN AS A TRADITIONAL PEW CONFIGURATION WHERE ALL THE SEATS ARE FACING TOWARDS THE ALTAR. DESPITE THIS BEING THOUGH OF AS A "TRADITIONAL" LAYOUT, SEATING WASN'T INCLUDED IN CHURCH DESIGN UNTIL 14TH CENTURY. BEFORE THAT MOST CHURCHES DIDN'T HAVE ANY SEATING. GIVEN THAT, WE SHOULD BE FREE TO EXPLORE OTHER SEATING ARRANGEMENTS BESIDES PEWS DIRECTED TOWARDS ALTER. IN THIS CONFIGURATION WE STILL HAVE SEATS FACING AN ALTER, BUT IT IS CENTRALLY LOCATED. THIS ALLOWS FOR THE CONGREGATION TO SEE BOTH THE ALTAR AND EACH OTHER, REINFORCING THE IDEA OF COMMUNITY WITH A CHURCH. #lutheranchurch #valpouniversity #church #seating #liturgical #liturgicaldesign #worship

Chapel of the Resurrection. @valparaisou

Chapel of the Resurrection. @valparaisou

St Paul Catholic Church Valparaiso, In.

St Paul Catholic Church Valparaiso, In.

THIS CHURCH IS A GOOD EXAMPLE OF OUTDOOR SPACE. THIS PLAZA NOT ONLY ALLOWS FOR PEOPLE TO CASUALLY MEET BEFORE AND AFTER A SERVICE, IT ALSO ALLOWED SPACE FOR PROCESSIONALS THAT MAY HAPPEN BEFORE OR AFTER THE SERVICE SUCH AS THE EASTER VIGIL.

THIS CHURCH IS A GOOD EXAMPLE OF OUTDOOR SPACE. THIS PLAZA NOT ONLY ALLOWS FOR PEOPLE TO CASUALLY MEET BEFORE AND AFTER A SERVICE, IT ALSO ALLOWED SPACE FOR PROCESSIONALS THAT MAY HAPPEN BEFORE OR AFTER THE SERVICE SUCH AS THE EASTER VIGIL.

He has risen. First born of the dead!

He has risen. First born of the dead!

Black Saturday is the day between Good Friday and Easter. Crosses are covered and some churches are even closed on this day. To remember the time that Christ was in the tomb. The Absence of art and beauty is something to reflect upon on this day.

Black Saturday is the day between Good Friday and Easter. Crosses are covered and some churches are even closed on this day. To remember the time that Christ was in the tomb. The Absence of art and beauty is something to reflect upon on this day.

Always look up. #catholic #catholicchurch #liturgical #ceilings #angels #architecture

Always look up. #catholic #catholicchurch #liturgical #ceilings #angels #architecture

St Thomas Episcopal Church NYC @saintthomasnyc

St Thomas Episcopal Church NYC @saintthomasnyc

THIS IS AN INTRESTING BAPTISM FONT. THERE ARE MANY COMMON FEATURES TO OTHER FONTS, IT IS STONE, OCTAGONAL, AND IS DECORATED WITH SYMBOLS. HOWEVER THIS FONT HAS A WOOD PANEL SURROUND. ALTHOUGH BEAUTIFUL, THIS MAY BE STRANGE WHEN YOU THINK ABOUT IT. WHY ARE WE LIMITING ACCESS TO THE WATER IN THE BAPTISM FONT? THERE IS A HISTORY OF COVERING THE WATER IN BAPTISM FONTS FROM THE MEDIEVAL PERIOD WHERE THERE WAS FEART THAT THE WATER WOULD BE MISUSED. TODAY, THAT CONCERN IS NOT AS COMMON, SO MOST DESIGNS TEND TO HAVE OPEN FONTS AND PEOPLE ARE ENCOURAGED TO INTERACT WITH THE WATER IN THE FONT IN A RESPECTFUL MANNER. #church #churcharchitecture #episcopal #episcopalchurch #baptism #baptismfont #liturgical #woodwork #woodworking @saintthomasnyc

THIS IS AN INTRESTING BAPTISM FONT. THERE ARE MANY COMMON FEATURES TO OTHER FONTS, IT IS STONE, OCTAGONAL, AND IS DECORATED WITH SYMBOLS. HOWEVER THIS FONT HAS A WOOD PANEL SURROUND. ALTHOUGH BEAUTIFUL, THIS MAY BE STRANGE WHEN YOU THINK ABOUT IT. WHY ARE WE LIMITING ACCESS TO THE WATER IN THE BAPTISM FONT? THERE IS A HISTORY OF COVERING THE WATER IN BAPTISM FONTS FROM THE MEDIEVAL PERIOD WHERE THERE WAS FEART THAT THE WATER WOULD BE MISUSED. TODAY, THAT CONCERN IS NOT AS COMMON, SO MOST DESIGNS TEND TO HAVE OPEN FONTS AND PEOPLE ARE ENCOURAGED TO INTERACT WITH THE WATER IN THE FONT IN A RESPECTFUL MANNER. #church #churcharchitecture #episcopal #episcopalchurch #baptism #baptismfont #liturgical #woodwork #woodworking @saintthomasnyc

@svenskakyrkannewyork

@svenskakyrkannewyork

LITURGICAL DESIGN CONSIDERATION
BRINGING PEACE TO YOUR SPACE. THROUGH THE USE OF SCRIPTURE AND ART, THESE FLOOR TILES EMPHASIS THE IMPORTANCE OF PEACE IN THE CHRISTIAN WAY OF LIFE. THEY ARE ALL LOCATED IN THE VESTIBULES SO ANYONE ENTERING THE SPACE MUST PASS OVER THIS WHILE ENTERING THE CHURCH. #episcopalchurch #episcopal #church #liturgical #art #mosaic #architecture @saintthomaschurch

LITURGICAL DESIGN CONSIDERATION
BRINGING PEACE TO YOUR SPACE. THROUGH THE USE OF SCRIPTURE AND ART, THESE FLOOR TILES EMPHASIS THE IMPORTANCE OF PEACE IN THE CHRISTIAN WAY OF LIFE. THEY ARE ALL LOCATED IN THE VESTIBULES SO ANYONE ENTERING THE SPACE MUST PASS OVER THIS WHILE ENTERING THE CHURCH. #episcopalchurch #episcopal #church #liturgical #art #mosaic #architecture @saintthomaschurch

WHEN YOU THINK OF A CHURCH, BELLS AND BELL TOWERS ARE PRETTY COMMON. BUT HOW DO THESE BELLS GET PLAYED? THIS IS A BELL PULL INSTRUMENT. IT IS USED TO PLAY CHURCH BELLS. AS YOU CAN SEE THERE ARE NOTES AT THE TOP OF THE PANEL CORRESPONDING TO PULLS THAT ARE USED TO RING SPECIFIC BELLS AND CREATE MELODIES. THESE PULLS ARE NO LONGER CONNECTED TO THE BELLS IN THE TOWER. A CARILLON IS TYPICALLY USED AND IS MORE SIMILAR TO A PIANO OR ORGAN WITH KEYS AND PEDALS. A CARILLON TYPICAL HAS MANY MORE BELLS 50 BEING THE STANDARD. #church #churchbells #carillon #churcharchitecture #instrument #weirdinstraments #strangeinstruments #liturgical @thegeneralseminary

WHEN YOU THINK OF A CHURCH, BELLS AND BELL TOWERS ARE PRETTY COMMON. BUT HOW DO THESE BELLS GET PLAYED? THIS IS A BELL PULL INSTRUMENT. IT IS USED TO PLAY CHURCH BELLS. AS YOU CAN SEE THERE ARE NOTES AT THE TOP OF THE PANEL CORRESPONDING TO PULLS THAT ARE USED TO RING SPECIFIC BELLS AND CREATE MELODIES. THESE PULLS ARE NO LONGER CONNECTED TO THE BELLS IN THE TOWER. A CARILLON IS TYPICALLY USED AND IS MORE SIMILAR TO A PIANO OR ORGAN WITH KEYS AND PEDALS. A CARILLON TYPICAL HAS MANY MORE BELLS 50 BEING THE STANDARD. #church #churchbells #carillon #churcharchitecture #instrument #weirdinstraments #strangeinstruments #liturgical @thegeneralseminary

I WAS HAVING A CONVERSATION WITH A FRANCISCAN BROTHER OVER THE WEEKEND AND WE DISCUSSED WHAT MADE A SPACE SACRED. OVER THE PAST COUPLE OF YEARS I HAVE BEEN PHOTOGRAPHING AND DOCUMENTING CHURCHES THAT HAVE LOFTY CEILINGS, STAINED GLASS AND INTRICATE DETAILS, BUT I RARELY CAPTURE THE DEFINING ELEMENT OF A SACRED SPACE. WHAT I OFTEN TIME FAIL TO CAPTURE IS PEOPLE ACTUALLY WORSHIPING JESUS. THIS IS THE DEFINING QUALITY THAT MAKES A SPACE SACRED, NOT THE ALTER/TABLE, NOT THE BEAUTIFUL STAINED GLASS OR EVEN THE CROSS UP ON THE WALL, BUT PEOPLE, ENGAGED IN WORSHIPING JESUS. #catholicchurch #church #churcharchitecture #sacredspace #liturgical

I WAS HAVING A CONVERSATION WITH A FRANCISCAN BROTHER OVER THE WEEKEND AND WE DISCUSSED WHAT MADE A SPACE SACRED. OVER THE PAST COUPLE OF YEARS I HAVE BEEN PHOTOGRAPHING AND DOCUMENTING CHURCHES THAT HAVE LOFTY CEILINGS, STAINED GLASS AND INTRICATE DETAILS, BUT I RARELY CAPTURE THE DEFINING ELEMENT OF A SACRED SPACE. WHAT I OFTEN TIME FAIL TO CAPTURE IS PEOPLE ACTUALLY WORSHIPING JESUS. THIS IS THE DEFINING QUALITY THAT MAKES A SPACE SACRED, NOT THE ALTER/TABLE, NOT THE BEAUTIFUL STAINED GLASS OR EVEN THE CROSS UP ON THE WALL, BUT PEOPLE, ENGAGED IN WORSHIPING JESUS. #catholicchurch #church #churcharchitecture #sacredspace #liturgical

“Sunlight is a symbol. What we see with our eyes foretells the coming of the Sun of Justice.” – St. Gregory of Agrigentum, bishop (unknown – 262 A.D.). #catholic #quote #inspiration #light #saint #saintquotes

“Sunlight is a symbol. What we see with our eyes foretells the coming of the Sun of Justice.” – St. Gregory of Agrigentum, bishop (unknown – 262 A.D.). #catholic #quote #inspiration #light #saint #saintquotes

IN A CHURCH YOU MIGHT NOTICE A LARGE WHITE CANDLE, OFTEN ELABORATED WITH DECORATION.
THIS IS THE PASCHAL CANDLE. THE PASCHAL CANDLE IS DEDICATED ON EASTER AND USED LIT DURING SPECIAL OCCASIONS LIKE BAPTISMS AND FUNERALS. IT IS SOMETIMES ALSO REFERRED TO AS THE EASTER CANDLE OR THE CHRIST CANDLE. #catholicchurch #catholic #candleaddict #liturgical #churcharchitecture #churchphotography #architecturephotography

IN A CHURCH YOU MIGHT NOTICE A LARGE WHITE CANDLE, OFTEN ELABORATED WITH DECORATION.
THIS IS THE PASCHAL CANDLE. THE PASCHAL CANDLE IS DEDICATED ON EASTER AND USED LIT DURING SPECIAL OCCASIONS LIKE BAPTISMS AND FUNERALS. IT IS SOMETIMES ALSO REFERRED TO AS THE EASTER CANDLE OR THE CHRIST CANDLE. #catholicchurch #catholic #candleaddict #liturgical #churcharchitecture #churchphotography #architecturephotography

HE WHO SINGS, PRAYS TWICE. #staugustine #lyon #catholic #liturgical #church #singing #cathedral

HE WHO SINGS, PRAYS TWICE. #staugustine #lyon #catholic #liturgical #church #singing #cathedral

@thebishopsranch

@thebishopsranch

THE USE OF LIGHT IN ANY CHURCH IS IMPORTANT. THIS SMALL CHAPEL MAKES GOOD USE OF IT'S STAINED GLASS. BECAUSE OF THE SMALLER SCALE OF THE CHAPEL, THE STAIND GLASS WINDOWS ARE LOWER IN THE WALL. THIS LOWER POSITION ALLOWS THE LIGHT TO INTERACT WITH THE FURNISHING AND THE PEOPLE OCCUPYING THE SPACE DURING THE MORNING AND EVENING WHEN THE SPACE IS MORE LIKLEY TO BE USED. @thebishopsranch #episcopal #liturgical #church #churcharchitecture #architecturalphotography

THE USE OF LIGHT IN ANY CHURCH IS IMPORTANT. THIS SMALL CHAPEL MAKES GOOD USE OF IT'S STAINED GLASS. BECAUSE OF THE SMALLER SCALE OF THE CHAPEL, THE STAIND GLASS WINDOWS ARE LOWER IN THE WALL. THIS LOWER POSITION ALLOWS THE LIGHT TO INTERACT WITH THE FURNISHING AND THE PEOPLE OCCUPYING THE SPACE DURING THE MORNING AND EVENING WHEN THE SPACE IS MORE LIKLEY TO BE USED. @thebishopsranch #episcopal #liturgical #church #churcharchitecture #architecturalphotography

THE DETAILS OF A CHURCH POINT
TOWARDS A HEAVENLY REALITY. IN THIS ALTARPIECE, WE HAVE THE BASE WHICH HOLDS THE TABERNACLE, TYPICAL FOR MOST ALTARPIECES. BUT ABOVE THAT, YOU'LL NOTICE THAT THE STONE CHANGES COLOR AND IS A DARKER GRAY.
FROM THERE THE ALTAR PIECE BEGINS TO LOOK LIKE A CHURCH. WE HAVE TWO STATUES FLANKING JESUS ON THE CROSS. ONE IS PETER AND THE OTHER IS PAUL. NOTICE THAT THEY ARE IN BACKLIT NICHES AND CUPOLAS ON TOP. THE LARGER COUPLA IS RESERVED FOR JESUS. ABOVE THE ALTARPIECE IN THE DOME WE HAVE JESUS IN THE HEAVENS. THE CHURCH IS POINTING TOWARDS THE HEAVENLY REALITY OF CHRIST'S CHURCH
BEING BUILT UP AND JESUS RULING
FROM THE HEAVENS. #catholic #catholicchurch #liturgical #churcharchitecture #architecture #architecturalphotography #explainer

THE DETAILS OF A CHURCH POINT
TOWARDS A HEAVENLY REALITY. IN THIS ALTARPIECE, WE HAVE THE BASE WHICH HOLDS THE TABERNACLE, TYPICAL FOR MOST ALTARPIECES. BUT ABOVE THAT, YOU'LL NOTICE THAT THE STONE CHANGES COLOR AND IS A DARKER GRAY.
FROM THERE THE ALTAR PIECE BEGINS TO LOOK LIKE A CHURCH. WE HAVE TWO STATUES FLANKING JESUS ON THE CROSS. ONE IS PETER AND THE OTHER IS PAUL. NOTICE THAT THEY ARE IN BACKLIT NICHES AND CUPOLAS ON TOP. THE LARGER COUPLA IS RESERVED FOR JESUS. ABOVE THE ALTARPIECE IN THE DOME WE HAVE JESUS IN THE HEAVENS. THE CHURCH IS POINTING TOWARDS THE HEAVENLY REALITY OF CHRIST'S CHURCH
BEING BUILT UP AND JESUS RULING
FROM THE HEAVENS. #catholic #catholicchurch #liturgical #churcharchitecture #architecture #architecturalphotography #explainer

.pro-gallery-wix-wrapper {display: block !important;} .pro-gallery-wix-wrapper .gallery-item-container {opacity: 1 !important; display: block !important;}

Join me, an Architect and Liturgical Designer,
on a journey as I visit churches and document
the sacred details that I discover. @sacreddetails

bottom of page