Comprehensible, Not Comfortable – Part 1
September 02, 2020
Comprehensible, Not Comfortable – Part 1
Long before the pandemic, I wrestled with how many churches use their buildings. Both as an
architect and follower of Jesus, I don’t like the fact that many church buildings are fully used only
several hours a week. Using church buildings for daycare, art galleries, after-school programs, soup
kitchens, emergency shelters, etc. seems like better stewardship. The pandemic has served up stories
of churches using classrooms, foyers, kitchens, and gyms in creative ways even as the sanctuary/
auditorium remains closed and dark. As we look forward to the day when we can gather again for
worship, let us consider how our buildings can go beyond merely accommodating activities but actually
spark curiosity about who God is and what He is doing in His creation.
Buildings designed to be used throughout the week tend to prioritize functionality. Lighting, finishes,
furnishings are selected based on what will suit the widest variety of uses, be durable and cost the least.
In addition, the elements that signify that the building is the meeting place of a church, tend to be
downplayed often so that un-churched will feel welcomed and comfortable.
We recently started working for Church of the Incarnation in Harrisonburg, Virginia
(https://theincarnation.org/). Their calling is to be “For the Glory of God and the Good of the City” and
their building program is tailored to meet a wide range of community needs. The Rev. Aubrey Spears,
Rector, reminded us, however, that, “We want people to know they are meeting in a church.” He
added, “I want the space to be comprehensible, not comfortable.”
Since the rise of churches like Saddleback and Willow Creek, the goal has been to make the building
invitational. Architects and interior designers have taken their cues from hotels, restaurants, and retail
spaces as we try to make buildings that are comfortable and accessible to those who otherwise would
never enter a traditional church building. When we make our churches into conference centers, we
miss an opportunity to inspire and teach.
The trend is moving in the other direction. We find most churches at a minimum, want a cross
prominently displayed somewhere on or in the building. Younger generations are so far removed from
church attendance that bad associations have given away to no associations. This lack of bad memories
coupled with a generic curiosity about spirituality prompts people to seek buildings and spaces that feel
sacred – with lofty ceilings, monumental windows with stained glass and beautifully crafted furniture
and fixtures. We want people to ask, “What does that mean?”
I believe that churches can do both. Our buildings can serve a wide variety of uses throughout the
week – whether English classes, music recitals or health clinics. But our buildings can also prompt
wonder, questions, and inspiration. Our building should help tell the story of the God and Savior in whose
Name we serve, teach and worship.
Our next post will explore the specific examples and ways we can craft our buildings, so they serve,
teach, and inspire.
Randy Seitz, AIA
CEO
Long before the pandemic, I wrestled with how many churches use their buildings. Both as an
architect and follower of Jesus, I don’t like the fact that many church buildings are fully used only
several hours a week. Using church buildings for daycare, art galleries, after-school programs, soup
kitchens, emergency shelters, etc. seems like better stewardship. The pandemic has served up stories
of churches using classrooms, foyers, kitchens, and gyms in creative ways even as the sanctuary/
auditorium remains closed and dark. As we look forward to the day when we can gather again for
worship, let us consider how our buildings can go beyond merely accommodating activities but actually
spark curiosity about who God is and what He is doing in His creation.
Buildings designed to be used throughout the week tend to prioritize functionality. Lighting, finishes,
furnishings are selected based on what will suit the widest variety of uses, be durable and cost the least.
In addition, the elements that signify that the building is the meeting place of a church, tend to be
downplayed often so that un-churched will feel welcomed and comfortable.
We recently started working for Church of the Incarnation in Harrisonburg, Virginia
(https://theincarnation.org/). Their calling is to be “For the Glory of God and the Good of the City” and
their building program is tailored to meet a wide range of community needs. The Rev. Aubrey Spears,
Rector, reminded us, however, that, “We want people to know they are meeting in a church.” He
added, “I want the space to be comprehensible, not comfortable.”
Since the rise of churches like Saddleback and Willow Creek, the goal has been to make the building
invitational. Architects and interior designers have taken their cues from hotels, restaurants, and retail
spaces as we try to make buildings that are comfortable and accessible to those who otherwise would
never enter a traditional church building. When we make our churches into conference centers, we
miss an opportunity to inspire and teach.
The trend is moving in the other direction. We find most churches at a minimum, want a cross
prominently displayed somewhere on or in the building. Younger generations are so far removed from
church attendance that bad associations have given away to no associations. This lack of bad memories
coupled with a generic curiosity about spirituality prompts people to seek buildings and spaces that feel
sacred – with lofty ceilings, monumental windows with stained glass and beautifully crafted furniture
and fixtures. We want people to ask, “What does that mean?”
I believe that churches can do both. Our buildings can serve a wide variety of uses throughout the
week – whether English classes, music recitals or health clinics. But our buildings can also prompt
wonder, questions, and inspiration. Our building should help tell the story of the God and Savior in whose
Name we serve, teach and worship.
Our next post will explore the specific examples and ways we can craft our buildings, so they serve,
teach, and inspire.
Randy Seitz, AIA
CEO
