Spiritual buildings?
Light fills the interior of Ronchamp Chapel, France.
Interior of the Ronchamp Chapel, France
What makes buildings 'religious'?
Some Christians seem to have little regard for the appearance of things. They believe that beauty, and a concern with aesthetics are not worthy Christian concerns.
We find warehouses and offices converted into worship centres, and new churches that look like project homes. Some even need a label that says 'CHURCH' to explain what they are, but does this make them so?
While personal relationships are very important, the buildings that we grow up with also influence our thinking.
We have all experienced homes that appear warm and inviting, spaces that feel threatening and unsafe, and sometimes buildings that feel 'spooky'. Philosopher Alain de Botton's fascinating book The Architecture of Happiness explains how architecture and style can affect our moods.
What makes buildings 'religious'?
Many find medieval and gothic churches such as Salisbury Cathedral very spiritual and liberating. This is, in part, due to the height of the central nave, the light filtering in from the top, stained glass windows, and a strongly enforced orientation towards the sanctuary.
These features have long been the cues associated with the inside of churches and religious spaces in our culture.
Yet, there are other design solutions which encourage 'spiritual' feelings in more modest buildings. French architect Le Corbusier designed a small pilgrimage chapel at Ronchamp in France in 1955. Very modern, even by current standards, but all who visit it are affected by its intense mystical atmosphere.
Churches should be able to accommodate new and changing forms of worship and liturgy.
The need for spaces to be multi-functional makes planning more difficult. However, some qualities are not conducive to worship or a sense of spirituality - regardless of the form of service.
Chaos, noise and a lack of order are probably unhelpful. Tranquillity, a sense of light and space, and perhaps a focus to a sacred object in some traditions, are more positive.
One can worship noisily in a quiet place but one cannot worship quietly in a noisy place.
Cathedrals contained side-chapels which were away from an often busy main nave and allowed space for those seeking a more serene and private time of contemplation.
Perhaps having several spaces, allowing differing styles of worship, could help reduce the conflict between those liking it loud and busy, and those wanting it more peaceful.
Within the Christian community, doing something beautiful for God has a very long tradition and should be encouraged. Before Christ, even temporary tabernacles were designed with the greatest care and used the best craftsman.
In new churches, or ones converted from secular spaces, sensitive and appropriate design can bring us closer to God. When it does, the resulting buildings are, perhaps, 'spiritual'.
Cornelis Wegman