Worship and its Environment

“Not all churches which seek worship renewal have the luxury of building a new space. Nevertheless, attention needs to be given to the existing space. How can the space be modified so that it works for worship renewal and not against it? Many churches have refurbished their space by rearranging the seating in a semicircle, by placing both table and pulpit in prominent places, and by using appropriately placed banners, wall hangings, or Christian symbols. These touches add a sense of being connected with God’s whole church as well as a feeling of warmth, hospitality, awe, reverence, and remembrance of God’s action in history. Space can also evoke praise, worship, silence, and hope. There is no single correct or effective style. All these emotions can be evoked in a stately cathedral or in a building that is quite contemporary. It is important for a renewing church to pay attention to how God encounters us through space and to become intentional in the way it uses space for worship.” (New 107-108) WORSHIP SPACE

“Congregational worship is a physically engaging process involving not only the ears and minds of people, but also their whole bodies in socially shaped activity. Spaces for worship are designed with a deliberate focus between worshiper and worship leader(s) up front. Indeed, the modern move toward projection screens is the attempt to remove all obstructions between pew and platform. Worship is not just how one sings or what the types of music are practiced. Worship encompasses the entire liturgical event that occurs within all church services.” (Marti 201) WORSHIP SPACE