This is the third meeting we have on the 6th Conviction “Disciplined creativity in the arts” under the ten core convictions of worship. This is in March 2011. This is a session to focus on the interaction between Liturgical Arts and Architecture.
Cathy: http://worship.calvin.edu/resources/resource-library/renovating-churches-to-build-a-sense-of-community
Cathy shared from the article that the interior and exterior design of the church can affect how people interact with other fellow-church members. e.g. Flexible space (made possible by movable furniture) that enables people to sit in a half or full round and to see each other during communion or particular seasons of the Christian church year reminds church members that they are a community.
Church building is theology in stone. It is an expression of the mission, faith, and beliefs of the church. For example, a church added 14 skylights and by shifting patterns of natural light play across the cross and communion area, reminding people that God is always at work in their lives.
To a church’s neighbors, clear entrances (adding welcoming signage and canopied entrances) says welcome. It says: “There’s a place for you”. We can be good stewards of these assets by offering them as public space. Therefore, fit architectural character to the neighborhood
DingJun: http://worshipsymposium.org/archive/300
DingJun starts by stating that church architecture is a testimony of our adoration of God. It is also the visible presence of God to church members. He then shared on the influences that have affected church architecture in the twentieth century. These include the ecumenical movement, the liturgical renewal movement and the modern architectural movement. Thus churches display mutual respect for one another, giving a more unified yet diverse outlook. They engage passionate worshippers and encourage congregational participation and contribution from the Arts. Lastly, the reflect the spirit of the age, which is minimalistic and pragmatic.
Action Plan: In view of the sharings from Cathy and Dingjun, we decide to start on a plan to uncover the thought behind the design on our current church. Though it is obviously influenced by minimalism, we believe more would be revealed if we were to search through the old records when design is being discussed for the current building.
Peisong: http://worship.calvin.edu/resources/resource-library/baptism-and-church-architecture-what-message-are-you-sending-/
Xiaohui: http://worship.calvin.edu/resources/resource-library/how-church-architecture-affects-lord-s-supper-practices
PeiSong and Xiaohui then shared on how theology of the sacraments influence how we do interior design of the sanctuary. Our conclusion is that our theology is somewhat different from the articles’, though it was a good time to think about what we do what we do. We do however need to educate the church members more on such matters and let them appreciate our design and the theology behind it.
Action Plan: MinZhi will continue to work on the long term goals and vision of Jubilee in five years’ time. Besides the investigation into our current design, we could also include some immediate remedies like road signs and information banners. A breakfast area at the multi-purpose hall is also proposed. Other ideas include a churchwide Liturgical Art event and even a worship session through the Arts.