S acred A rchitectureISSN# 1535-9387 Issue 20 2011 Journal of the Institute for Sacred Architecture E X N I H I L O N I H I L F I T Too often, though, the beauty that is thrust upon us is illusory and deceitful, superficial and blinding, leaving the onlooker dazed; instead of bringing him out of himself and opening him up to horizons of true freedom as it draws him aloft, it impris- ons him within himself and further enslaves him, depriving him of hope and joy. It is a seductive but hypocritical beauty that rekindles desire, the will to power, to possess, and to dominate others, it is a beauty which soon turns into its opposite, taking on the guise of indecency, transgression or gratuitous provocation. - Benedict XVI, Meeting with Artists V enice has a problem. Not only Interrupting the serenity and per- do the rising tides threaten to fection of the architecture is a large destroy this world heritage site, round drum placed at the center of the but the lack of Venetians living there church. It emits a column of smoke. A threatens to turn the whole city into a giant mechanical duct that protrudes museum. From 1966 the number of res- into the center of the dome draws the idents has dropped in half from 121,000 smoke upwards in a variety of shapes to 62,000. The Serenissima lives off of while art tourists sit in reverent awe. the great art and architecture of its past, The misty movement and the sound of and survives on tourism. The city also numerous fans allow the installation to relies on events such as the Venice Bi- steal the focus from the church and its ennale, a large scale contemporary art sacred art. San Giorgio is no longer a exhibition which draws in well-heeled vessel for liturgy or prayer, but rather a art tourists from around the globe. backdrop for an experiment in physics. In recent years, not content to re- In some way, art that is disruptive can main isolated in the Arsenale, the Bi- have the effect of removing the sense of ennale has begun to spread out across the sacred, resulting in an implied de- the city with exhibitions in palaces consecration. The artist has entitled the and churches. There are hundreds of work Ascension, and explains, “what beautiful churches in Venice and they interests me is the idea of immaterial- are expensive to maintain. Many of the thoroughly that it is impossible to see ity becoming an object, which is exactly scuole, or religious fraternities, have the neo-Palladian architecture and the what happens in ascension: the smoke become museums and concert halls artwork by Tiepolo, Ricci, and Piazzet- becomes a column. Also present in this where you can gaze on Tintoretto’s re- ta. For those who love art and architec- work is the idea of Moses following a ligious masterpieces while listening to ture this installation is a painful sign column of smoke, a column of light, in the Four Seasons 365 days a year. It can of disrespect, and for people of faith the desert...” Really? Is this a thought- be worse, however, much worse. At it is much more serious: a new type of ful reinterpretation of religious belief the Scuola Grande di Santa Maria delle iconoclasm in which religious art is be- or merely a witty joke at the Church’s Misericordiae, an installation by Flem- littled and temporarily disfigured. expense? The fact that the installation ish artist Jan Fabre features a raised Another version of the war of im- was created for an art gallery in Italy bronze platform with four giant marble ages can be found in one of the most and previously exhibited in a bank in brains leading to a rendition of Mi- prominent churches in Venice. Seen Rio and a gallery in Beijing makes any chelangelo’s Pietà in which Fabre puts directly across the bacino from piazza religious explanations suspect. The himself in the place of Christ. In accor- San Marco is the historic Benedictine Los Angeles Times cited Ascension as a dance with the artist’s stated wishes, foundation of San Giorgio Maggiore. contemporary-art emperor wearing no visitors participate in a fictive ritual One of the last works of architect An- clothes. Or is there something more by donning slippers and mounting the drea Palladio, this church is one of the subversive going on? If churches are bronze stairs as they examine the con- great masterpieces of Renaissance ar- seen as irrelevant for modern man, ex- sciously kitsch artwork. San Barnaba chitecture with its central pediment cept as artifacts of cultural history, they and San Maurizio have installed within and two half-pediments. Among its naturally become sites for experimen- their naves exhibitions of models of artistic features are two large Eucha- tation. It is not surprising that the orga- Leonardo’s machines and baroque in- ristic paintings by Tintoretto placed on nizers of the Biennale would relish this struments. San Stae, a temple-fronted either side of the high altar and mul- use of a prominent church as a venue church on the Grand Canal with a won- tiple side altars, which include paint- for contemporary art, but the fact that derfully sophisticated cubic interior, is ings by the Bassanos, Ricci, and Palma its use was agreed to by the Benedic- one of sixteen churches maintained by Giovane. But San Giorgio’s main claim tines and the Archdiocese is sad. On Chorus. Excepting a Sunday morning to fame is the architecture. Large arches the other hand, the artist could not be mass, these churches are considered supported by Corinthian pilasters ar- happier. His rising smoke benefits by museums of art and architecture, and ticulate a cruciform nave while giant being seen within the majestic space of admission is charged. However, after composite columns on pedestals sup- San Giorgio, and gives back emptiness, San Stae became an art museum, it be- port a majestically vaulted ceiling. A one of the stated aims of the contempo- came a backdrop for contemporary art. light-filled dome hovers over the cross- rary artist’s work. This year an installation called “Api- ing while a screen of columns veil the ary. Destiny Drums” endeavors to turn ornately carved monastic choir behind. W the church into a hive and the visitors The focus of the sanctuary is a wonder- into bees. Large kite-like sculptures ful baroque high altar with a globe and Duncan Stroik and hanging cans fill the church so sculptures of the Trinity. Notre Dame, Fall 2011 On the cover: Neonian Baptistery, Ravenna, Italy - Photo by Hay Kranen Sacred Architecture Issue 20 2011 Contents E di t o r ia l 2 W Editorial .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Duncan Stroik News & Letters 4 W Catholic Artists Society holds its inaugural meeting in New York W USC builds new Catholic Center W W Christchurch Cathedral ruined in New Zealand earthquake W Knights purchase John Paul II Cultural Center W W Apostle Philip's tomb found in Turkey W Poor Clares dedicate their new chapel in Phoenix W W Cathedral of Lugano undergoing sanctuary wreckovation W Diocese of Raleigh plans a new cathedral W A r t ic l e s 9 W The Perennial Value of the Traditional Confessional. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . John J. Coughlin 12 W Leonard Porter's Stations of the Cross . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . John Varriano 14 W Ecclesiastical Sprawl Repair: Two Proposals for the Church to Restore the Urban Fabric . . . . . . . . . William Dowdy 18 W An Architectural and Theological Interface: The Dominican Complex at Magnanapoli. . . . . Christopher Longhurst 22 W A Faceless Santo Volto: Mario Botta's Conference Room Tomb. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Matthew Alderman D o c u m e n tat i o n 24 W The Splendor of Truth, the Beauty of Love: The Exhibition. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI Books 26 W Worship Space Acoustics by Kleiner, Klepper & Torres. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . reviewed by Dennis Fleisher 28 W Ravenna in Late Antiquity by Deborah Mauskopf Deliyannis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . reviewed by Nikolaos Karydis 29 W How To Read Churches by Denis McNamara.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . reviewed by Thomas Dietz 30 W Majestic Shrines and Graceful Sanctuaries by Brendan Grimes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . reviewed by Thomas Stroka 32 W From the Publishing Houses: a Selection of Recent Books . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . compiled by Sacred Architecture w w w . s a c r e d a r c h i t e c t u r e . o r g Journal of the Institute for Sacred Architecture The Institute for Sacred Architecture is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization made up of architects, clergy, educators and others interested in the discussion of significant issues related to contemporary Catholic architecture. Sacred Architecture is published twice annually for $9.95. ©2011 The Institute for Sacred Architecture. Address manuscripts and PRODUCTION letters to the Editor: Thomas Stroka Editor, Duncan Stroik ADVISORY BOARD Dr. Melinda Nielsen P.O. Box 556 John Burgee, FAIA Caroline Cole Notre Dame, IN 46556 Most Rev. Charles J. Chaput, OFM, Cap. Thomas Dietz voice: (574) 232-1783 Rev. Cassian Folsom, OSB Jamie LaCourt email:
[email protected] Thomas Gordon Smith, AIA Forest Walton Sacred Architecture Issue 20 2011 3 Room at the Inn. Munich Pavone.000-square-foot regular evenings of recollection. The 400-seat chapel was designed by Liturgical Environs.” significant in his life to mark the sixtieth The Catholic Artists Society hosted an anniversary of his ordination to the inaugural event and Mass of the Holy priesthood.000 square foot chapel and Catholic Center at the University of Southern California. the 9-foot. PC. May 15. An advisory board is being assembled to help lead the apostolate. and Architect of Record Perkowitz & Ruth. and Bad a reception and lecture by Fr. Room at the Inn is located on four acres of land donated by the Benedictine monks of Belmont Abbey. hosts Saint Peter’s Square on June 12.posterous. 2011.com Belmont Abbey College broke ground on June 20 for a campus pregnancy and aftercare maternity home. Frank Frauenkirche. Mass was followed by Saint Georg von Traunstein. Fr. The existing structure Group in San Rafael. on the former site of an Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church Photo: cehwiedel. holds were presented to the Holy Father in break ground for the 10. lectures. and plans to continue the annual mass. 4 Sacred Architecture Issue 20 2011 . Organizers of the project say it is the first college- based maternity center in the nation. City. It is slated for completion and dedication in 2012. the site until the Anglicans sold it to the Architect Chris J. and will Photo: wikimedia. Prophets and the Four Evangelists. Spirit for Artists on Sunday. the Major Ltd in London. which seats 500 worshipers on the new basilica in July 2009.” The Catholic homeland of Bavaria. at Built by members of the Equestrian the Church of Our Savior in New York Union of Upper Bavaria. Design Photo: st-panteleimon. national director of Priests for Father George Rutler celebrated the Mass Life. Fr. in North West London. An estimated 450 people attended. Aschau and of the liturgy. Photo: www. and the churches Rutler celebrated the extraordinary form of Altötting.com The Basilica of Saint Panteleimon The Greek Orthodox Church in England consecrated a new basilica on April 9.org Architect Elkus Manfredi. George Photo: Belmont Abbey Munich and Freising.N e w s S acred A rchitecture N ews David Galalis 2011. catholicartistssociety. celebrated June 29. Germany. replicas of six churches that have been to do as a church. “Ignatian Prayer by forty-two horses from Benedict’s and the Work of the Artist. Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony. and Organizers at Belmont Abbey College Artists Society. tall replicas include the Cathedrals of filling the church to capacity. 2011. 32nd Street in Los Angeles. entitled. The Archdiocese of Los Angeles is constructing a new 20. These replicas were transported Koterski. SJ. SC this past Spring.com Anglican parish. CA designed the was demolished and construction began The new $35 million USC Caruso Catholic church. Kamages of CJK Design Orthodox parish. The Anglican and celebrated the dedication of its new Greek Orthodox churches had been church eight blocks from the state sharing worship space in a building on capitol in Columbia.org provide pregnant college women with room and board and the opportunity to continue their education. Joseph Tolz. formed in 2009. The Center and Church of Our Savior is under under the 60 foot high dome painted basilica was designed by Papa Architects construction on University Avenue and with Christ as Pantokrator. The Basilica of Saint Panteleimon is located in Kenton. described the center as “a witness of the Holy Spirit for the Catholic Artists Pope Benedict XVI received scale to the entire church about what we need Society May 15. Birkenstein.holytrinitysc. St. Sacred Architecture Issue 20 2011 5 .” was organized by Cardinal Gionfranco Ravasi of the Pontifical Council for Culture. The Cathedral of the Resurrection in Evry. on the occasion of the feast of Sts. A wide range of art forms After being severely damaged in an were represented. N e w s A new ambo has been installed for The new Cathedral of Blessed Mother papal liturgies in the Basilica of Saint Teresa of Calcutta was dedicated in Peter in the Vatican. Renzo Piano. and Oscar Niemeyer. First used on the Prishtina. No lives were Botta. was hit by another wave presented by architects such as Mario of earthquakes in June. Sterlicchio Livio. Cardinal Wuerl of the Archdiocese of ceiling. MI. Mother of the Eucharist in Ann Arbor.com Martyr chapel in Columbus. national center. had previously planned to William Heyer Architect completed a buy the center but withdrew due to renovation of Saint Stephen the lack of funding. and music. drew from the traditions of Romanesque and Byzantine architecture in his design for Photo: Flickr “Nicolasnova” the cathedral. Abrams” France. including painting. Kosovo.C. The Dominican Sisters of Mary. the one-hundredth anniversary of Mother front of the large wooden ambo shows Teresa’s birth.com The Knights of Columbus announced on August 2 their intent to purchase the John Paul II Cultural Center in Washington. causing restoration work from the earlier February earthquake to be delayed. Photo: Flickr “Ivan S.com work by sixty artists from around the world. and Stations of the Vigneron of Detroit to establish a Cross. but arches supporting the dome of the cathedral were damaged. Paul. The architect. The Vatican celebrated Pope Benedict XVI’s sixtieth anniversary of priestly ordination with an exhibition featuring Photo: fradave. flooring. of the Blessed Sacrament in Christchurch. Santiago Calatrava. The exhibition. The sides move its headquarters from the city of the ambo have reliefs of St. Church designs were New Zealand. and Shrine of Blessed John Paul II on the site. permanent museum. photography. D. and lighting. Peter and Paul on July 29.heyerarchitect. Ohio. When construction is a relief of the Annunciation with the completed on the cathedral next year. organ. June 13. entitled Cathedral of Blessed Mother Teresa of “The Splendor of Truth. by Mario Botta. Photo: thekf. as well as restored Washington and Archbishop Allen confessionals. and located in the Aula Paolo VI. earthquake last February.typepad. the Cathedral sculpture. the Beauty Calcutta in Kosovo of Love. lost in the two major earthquakes of Paolo Portoghese. Peter and of Prizren to the capital city Prishtina. Expulsion of Adam and Eve from the the Catholic Diocese of Kosovo will Garden in the background.blogspot. was one project on exhibit at the Aula Paolo VI.org Photo: www. architecture. Supreme Knight Carl Photo: romancatholicblog. Anderson said the Knights will work The renovation began in 2007 and closely with His Eminence Donald included a new sanctuary. This is the first new Philip died in this city after preaching church in the Archdiocese of Louisville in Greece and Asia Minor. The image dates from the early sixth century and was uncovered during restorations organized by the Pontifical Council of Sacred Archeology. a Archaeologists have confirmed the regional elementary school that shares location of the Apostle Philip’s tomb property with Saint Bernadette. The building was designed by SPS+ Architects of Phoenix. a planned town in Kentucky. broke ground for a new church on May Saint Mary Church in Kinglake. Saint Bernadette currently serves 2010.com centuries. The been working on the ark for three years parish and attached elementary school and plans to have it ready for display at Photo: vbnarchitects. Philip for 2011. Italy. Construction during the wildfires in the outskirts of is expected to last approximately sixteen the Melbourne Diocese. An ancient fresco of St. 15.N e w s Saint Mary Church in Joplin. The chapel is part of a projected 42. The architects Kavellaris Urban 1. He reports finding a fifth-century basilica with three naves built around a first-century Roman tomb.com The new Saint Bernadette church is designed by Voelker. dedication. He length of a football field. Photo: wikimedia.600. The new church will seat Design donated their services for the 1. Bishop Olmsted presided at the Photo: whatsonchengdu. Formed by a merger of two parishes Australia was dedicated in December.tumblr. formerly Hierapolis.com in Western Anatolia.3 million dollars.000-square-foot monastery building project. Francesco in twenty years. It is believed St. which “evidently enjoyed the highest consideration. 6 Sacred Architecture Issue 20 2011 . Netherlands. the site as the tomb of St.blogspot. opened in Pamukkale.com Photo: Flickr “Desiree Koh” understanding of the iconographic evolution of this great saint. soon as possible. Fr. $6 million project in order to replace The cost of the 34. Dordrecht. Paul is turned towards one of the deceased in acclamation. and his facial expression is similar to Roman representations of philosophers from the same period. Blackburn and Niehoff Architects. was A full-scale replica of Noah’s ark is destroyed by a deadly tornado that hit being constructed by Johan Huibers in the town on May 22. St. Gennaro in Naples.250 with the ability to expand to 1. Saint Bernadette Parish in Norton Commons. parish center. months. Saint Mary’s Academy. Its discovery enriches Photo: www. D’Andria of the University of Salento led the international archeological team that made the discovery.panoramio. Huibers has was later dug out by parishioners. if the decision was The Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration made later to build a basilica around it.460 families.000-square-foot project a parish that had been burned down will be 7. in 2008. MO. The biblically- Justin Monaghan escaped unharmed accurate ship is four-stories-tall and the by taking shelter in his bathtub.org Photo: stonechurchraynham. Paul was discovered in the catacombs of St.com are fundraising and hope to rebuild as the London Olympics in 2012. in 2009 along with Saint Bernadette’s Photo: poculum. 2011. Its pastor.” of Our Lady of Solitude Monastery in This archaeological evidence confirms Tonopah in the Archdiocese of Phoenix the faith of pilgrims who have venerated dedicated their new chapel on May 7. Photo: mcnorlander.com W Photo: Don Jeffry Moore Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Gainesville. VA has the first set of stained The National September 11 Memorial glass windows with all twenty mysteries was dedicated on the tenth anniversary of of the Rosary since Blessed Pope the attacks. and a compound curved expertise in woodcarving and design.wordpress.000 who died in the attacks are inscribed into bronze panels surrounding the memorial pools. This tribute of remembrance New liturgical elements are proposed for John Paul II instituted the Luminous and honor to victims of the terrorist the historic sanctuary of San Lorenzo Mysteries in 2002. regardless by hand. America is working on a reconstruction of the Gwozdziec Synagogue for the Wood carving: With offices in the UK. Director. simply outstanding. Ian Agrell cupola dovetailing inside the log walls provides a unique service that if utilised during the and timber frame. Poland.” Dr.com by common consent.agrellcarving. While the main altar may remain. Scott Cooper. an unusual timber Consultation and Design: With over 50 years frame roof. The combined cost of the memorial and museum is an estimated 700 million dollars. to be used in multiple courses of project size or location. The names of the nearly 3.com The Human Touch W Franco Pessina. www. but during the Nazi Contact: invasion more than 200 synagogues New York and SF: (415) 457 4422 were completely destroyed and are now UK: (01233) 500252 known only through photographs and drawings. Switzerland. footprints where the World Trade Center twin towers once stood. New York Jewish Museum in Warsaw. high quality architectural woodcarving. designed by Dixon Studio of Staunton. is working on a renovation of the Cathedral of Saint Lorenzo in Lugano. The windows were attacks of September 11.tqn. Sacred Architecture Issue 20 2011 7 . and San Francisco and a capacity of over 50. following a design competition held in 2003. waterfalls and reflecting pools in the VA. ambo. Before World War planning stages can result in significant time and II. Switzerland. The memorial. museum. Fulham Palace Agrell Architectural Carving provides bespoke. of scribed log wall. N e w s “The quality of the carving your company has provided for Bishop Sherlock’s Room is. The Timber Framers Guild of North consultation and design services. and freestanding altar recall the brutalist style found in many American church renovations in the 1960s. 2001. and memorial plaza were designed by architect Michael Arad Photo: rosarywindows. features Cathedral in Lugano.com of Handel Architects in New York and Photo: Don Jeffry Moore landscape architect Peter Walker and Partners in California.000 hours of hand carving a year. the proposed cathedra. architect. Photo: 0. such as in Gwozdziec were found throughout Poland. The craftsmanship on display is extraordinary and the appearance of the room is remarkable as a result. magnificent wooden synagogues monetary savings. we proudly stand The project includes converting 200 by our reputation for producing high quality Silver Fir logs into 450 timbers entirely woodcarving on time and within budget. org styles. Christian and Byzantine spirituality. Ruairi Quinn stated that if the eighteen The new 1. The Reverend smallest cathedral in the country.com the expected monetary payments. The monastic complex of San Sal. drawing from the Romanesque congregations to assess their views. The Basilica of San Salvatore in Name of Jesus and will be the fifth largest Spoleto in central Italy largest cathedral in the United States 5. Sylwester Zawadzki. The Santa Sofia complex near November 2010 in the presence of forty-two percent in the last ten years to Naples hundreds of Polish faithful. DC. II was unveiled outside Rome’s main Places of Power. said the concrete figure itself is of the diocese.com The government of Ireland has asked religious congregations implicated in the 2009 Ryan Report on abuse at Irish institutions to transfer properties worth Bishop Frederick F. one of seven new World Heritage Sites Photo: dispatch.5 million dollars. Bishop Michael F. Burbidge of the vatore-Santa Giulia in Brescia. Education Minister Westerville. the pontiff and fortresses throughout the Italian is shown opening his cloak to embrace Peninsula. the Roman people for the sculpture’s They demonstrate the Lombard’s ability crudeness. drawing on the heritage of Ancient Rome. to 72 meters. Quinn Meleca designed the 38.000-square-foot will seek a meeting with the religious church. its sculptor Oliviero Rainaldi. OH. The castrum with the Torba Tower million Cathedral Campus in the city and the church outside the walls.com seven sites include: 1.400-seat church is part of a congregations were not able to meet larger project that includes an activity Photo: dreamytours. The Tempietto del Clitunno. the statue of Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro Photo: Flickr “jmlwinder” is 30-meters-tall without its pedestal. “The Longobards. UNESCO created seven A sixteen foot bronze modernist statue new World Heritage Sites in Italy under of the recently beatified Pope John Paul the collective title. The Gastaldaga area and the Epis- copal complex in Cividale del Friuli in northeast Italy 2.000 registered Catholics. The golden crown and Washington. be the world’s tallest statue of Jesus. By comparison. 2011. Campbell of the hundreds of millions of dollars to the Diocese of Columbus dedicated Saint state as part of a revised package to Paul the Apostle Catholic Church in compensate victims. northern Diocese of Raleigh announced the Italy planned construction of a new $75 to 90 3. in Foggia. According to groups of monasteries.blogspot.000-seat Maria foris portas. near Milan Cathedral will be dedicated to the Holy 4. Claimed to more than 200. the artist agreed in August to synthesize various architectural to make “minimal” changes to the work. Following public outcry by finest examples of Lombard architecture. and groundbreaking mound underneath bring the total height is scheduled for the year 2013. The new Cathedral will 33-meters-tall: one meter for each year be designed by McCrery Architects of of Christ’s life. and Richardsonian traditions. Photo: holynamecathedralnc. The proposed 2. they center and athletic fields.” The new sites include train station on May 18 . and are said to embody the the faithful. The Photo: orbiscatholicussecundus. churches. and Germanic Europe.N e w s On June 28. on June 29. 7. Santa of Raleigh. it The existing Sacred Heart Cathedral in also known as the Sanctuary of Monte overlooks a plain in the western Polish the historic downtown is currently the Sant’Angelo sul Gargano. promoter of the will be retained for the sacramental life statue. The Tempietto del Clitunno. a Polish Church officials consecrated a in its seating capacity. and southeast Italy. David of their schools to the state. town of Swiebodzin. and costs an should transfer the ownership of many estimated 21. 8 Sacred Architecture Issue 20 2011 . The Sanctuary of San Michele. The Catholic small paleochristian church in Umbria gigantic statue of Christ the King in population of the Diocese has increased 6. of the Sacrament of Penance in accord able to the external forum of a with the social. communal. the Sacrament of Penance place so that the faithful who wish to developed in the Church with can use them freely. or lattice and. The traditional confessional and the priest from unchaste touch and ramental and non-sacramental com. O. and less frightening for acterized by public and com. less formal. confessions are compartments and they speak to each routinely heard in hospitals.” The United States the wisdom gained from ex. In addition requires that “there are always confes- to protecting a person’s rights sionals with a fixed grate between the to privacy and good reputa.F. that only one penitent will be confessing The essential design of the tradi- at a time. MO the confessional is essentially intended and external fora. the usual venue for the hearing confessions is a church or celebration of the Sacrament of oratory. In the in a wide variety of places outside of traditional confessional. The traditional sial dimensions of the sacrament’s his- distinction between the inter. Conference of Catholic Bishops has St. Even tents prefer this method of confessing during the early historical de. For example. which are public must have a thin.M. 1740 secret auricular confession of reconciliation” that permit penitents sins helped to avoid unneces. It may be designed with community. In contrast. but Photo: terryprest. munity. Section 2 of Canon 964 of reason to believe that specific the 1983 Code of Canon Law leaves it to sins confessed to a priest re. one’s sins. canon law foresees that for a Penance has been the confessional just cause confessions may be heard situated in a church or oratory. the priest a confessional located in a church or and the penitent remain in separate oratory. While the proper place for of Trent. rectories. The traditional munications. national conferences of bishops to es- mained part of the secrecy of tablish norms for the confessional. from false accusations. Vatican II called for the question of guilt of an ecclesi. by Giuseppe Maria Crespi. and perfo- the penitent confesses sins to God and verifiable. there is the priest. has distinguished between the internal Seminary Chapel. The face to face approach velopment of the Sacrament has been described as more personal. The confession of sin rated screen between the penitent and through the priest who acts in persona belongs to the internal forum while the the confessor. revision of the rites for the celebration astical crime is generally suit. the external Canon 909 of the 1917 Code of Canon confessional box nonetheless permits forum involves all matters. and sary and damaging scandal in the com- also serves to protect both the penitent it involves confidentiality in both sac. penitent and the confessor in an open tion. of Penance. The internal forum to afford anonymity to the penitent. the confessor sits between for sacramental confession permitted by two compartments. The confessional admits of tional confessional reflects long es- a variety of styles from simple and tablished concerns of the Church for Photo: scotus austere to magnificently carved wooden individual dignity and the good of the structures. Shrewsbury. It pertains to matters of conscience. has long served to enhance these goals. In her wisdom developed or without doors and with or without over the many centuries. F rom at least the time of the Council Christi. each of which has canon law is grounded on the principle a kneeler for a penitent. in military situations. and eccle- canonical trial. which was char. Coughlin. John Nepomuk Hears the Confession of the tensive experience that the called for a “small chapel or rooms of Queen of Bohemia. In all of its design variations. other through a grill. The plentiful opportunity confessionals. screen. the opportunity for face good and an individual to face confession was often empha- human being’s right to privacy sized.com the internal forum. even on the which is often covered by a veil. to choose between the traditional ano- Sacred Architecture Issue 20 2011 9 . During the post- nal and external fora reflects a conciliar years in the implementation balance between the common of the revision. such as an Law stipulated that the confessional a kind of sacred intimacy in which act of governance. those who seek a conversation with munal acts of penance. In many field of battle. It remains true that many peni- and good reputation. fixed. the Church Confessional Screen at Kenrick-Glennon curtains. The priest is of the salvation of souls which is the able to close off one of the penitent’s supreme law of the Church (salus compartments with a sliding screen so animarum est suprema lex). A r t i c l e s T he P erennial V alue of the T raditional C onfessional John J.blogspot. torical development. performance of penance. The separation of some criminal matter in the the penitent and confessor in the tra. John J. anyone may enter a reconcili.M. nymity of confessing through a screen looking highly dubious. Generally. He re- by the traditional confessional may be has raised questions about the value of ceived his doctorate in canon law from in order. which is tion of innocence of a criminal act is not susceptible to the further commis- often abrogated. he cannot Confessional at Kenrick-Glennon Seminary space is specific to the confession of justly be held to state report- 10 Sacred Architecture Issue 20 2011 . More than a few Oxford University Press in late 2011. from Harvard Uni- presents more problems than advan. It communi- sexual abuse crisis has resulted in an cates that the Sacrament of Penance is atmosphere in which the presump. James Catholic able. A priest accused of sion of sin but is a source of the divine Photo: Mark Scott Abeln sexual abuse may be viewed as guilty healing that comes from the reception once the accusation has been brought of God’s forgiveness. Finally.Rev. but they also However.A r t i c l e s sins. The traditional confessional ensure the faithful that they may freely assists in protecting the priest from confess their sins and receive God’s for- false accusations. of course. Another reason is that the voice. as Professor of Law and Theology at retrieval of the important values served Additionally. the priest is vulner. Law. information that is communicated to and Community will be published by fully reminded all of us of the reality them by a penitent. public.giveness without the danger of public tories which are open to the general revelation by the confessor. the confessor The modern reconciliation room often most often may simply have no encourages a wide-ranging conversa. Al- purity which is to characterize the though it is sometimes possi- imitation of Christ by both priest and ble to know a person through penitent. The and society as a whole. The traditional confessional thus Recent developments also suggest serves to safeguard the inviolability of that the traditional confessional may the seal of the Sacrament of Penance. essential to that deeper know who is confessing. In the design of a against him. recent developments in need to be prudent to avoid any situa. exemption that a confessor sometimes may fall in violations of might enjoy under state law. The sexual abuse crisis has pain. The physical separation of the use their skills to affirm the perennial Church in Catawissa. It may well be time to recon. and the administration of absolution. One reason for this the state.Rome and his J. Sacrament of Penance why he ditional confessional tends to create a should be exempt from report- sacred space that militates against the ing requirements adopted by commission of sin. the the identity of the penitent or if traditional confessional suggests to the he has a lack of certainty about parties that the purpose of this sacred a penitent’s identity.D. Chastity in sight and touch that the priest often does not are. service to the faithful. If the priest does not know Photo: scotus or spiritual direction. al confessional. Priests need to or the opportunity for a “face to face be fearless in the offer of their humble encounter” with the confessor. state law protects the Pontifical Gregorian University in sider whether the reconciliation room confessors and other religious minis.ecclesiastical architects may wish to Confessional Room at St. His latest book. In contrast. the sexual abuse crisis the University of Notre Dame. as a result of original sin been inclined to question any and their own personal limitations. person is a minor.a sacred and privileged place. the sixth and ninth commandments They ask if a priest hears about of the Decalogue. ters from being compelled to divulge versity. serves the Church’s experience suggest that a tion that might cause scandal. resolve to ing requirements about abuse or other sin no more. expression of contrition. types of crime. The anonymity of the is that the parties cannot see or touch traditional confessional means each other. Person tages. advance important legal and societal The seal of the Sacrament functions to functions. In churches and ora.. the reality remains that in traditional confessional facilitates an the separate compartment and intimacy that is nonetheless ordered to behind the veil of the tradition- the matter of the Sacrament of Penance. secrecy. especially if that ration of an already existing structure. that priests are human beings like all persons in secular society have others who.F. Coughlin. MO traditional confessional renders accu.the traditional confessional conveys ation room and subsequently bring an important message to the Church an accusation against a confessor.values protected by the traditional con- sations of inappropriate touching or fessional. O. When a priest is alone new church or oratory and in the resto- with another person. idea of the identity of the peni- tion more akin to pastoral counselling tent. CUSTOM CHURCH ART Church Interiors Adoraon and celebraon altars. ambos. mensas. pulps. e-mail: john. relief figures. Phone USA: 1-866-847-1153 renovaon of statues.stuflesser.com WOOD – BRONZE – MARBLE info@stuflesser. integrave and web: www. bapsteries. copies of anque statues. carved portras. Statues Saints. enre presbyteral areas. renewal of interiors.stuflesserstudios@ mail. blesseds.com conservave restoraon. staons of the cross.com Church Interiors Statues Restoraons Sacred Architecture Issue 20 2011 11 . 13 Petlinstreet .Orsei 39046 ITALY Restoraons Phone Italy: 011-39-0471-796163 Cleaning. fixed the ratory drawings that impose clarity tion on the left side of the nave. in some instanc- of the Cross. II and bearing his burden through IX. to left with Christ taking up the cross in under their patronage in the late sev. New Jersey. the venerable Via Byzantine art into more naturalistic gio nor the operatic bravura of Rubens. Time (VII) being the final representa- spirit of the Enlightenment. And it The body and soul of these paintings nally known. ground. like Annibale Carracci. promisingly classical. was reenacted in actual was not until 1747—sixteen years after aspires more to the idealized legacy of pilgrimages to Jerusalem during the Clement XII’s decree—that a major Raphael.A r t i c l e s V ia C rucis in the G arden S tate John Varriano T he 2011 Venice Biennale was flooded with non-representational works that were. with.” a subject taken from an The new Stations of the Cross commissioned for the Church of Christ the King eighteenth-century Chinese novel. each mea- as the Holy Land became increasingly tions as a coherent set. modern painters have rarely sequence begins with Christ before Pilate tual journey alone. The artist was suring 16 x 12 inches and installed in inhospitable to pilgrims. in each case with a shallow fore- is Christ the King. thirty—to the fourteen that remain con. Leonard Porter’s Stations in New church just to the left of the altar. in Europe as guides for the faithful of San Polo in Venice. Domenichino. story then crosses to the right wall with 12 Sacred Architecture Issue 20 2011 . the principal action in the near ings represent the Fourteen Stations raphy. The number of Stations—which previously upon the clamor of Christ’s final hours. are hung on the nave walls. ture. as it was origi. in New Vernon. my own response to the exhibition was to wonder why contemporary art has detached itself so thoroughly from the precepts of Western aesthetics that have persisted for more than two millennia. proliferated in medieval devotional es. the artist embraces ended with his Entombment. and Guido Reni. which is located at the front of the “Stations”—as the imaginary pilgrim. enteenth century that the practice was steps of canonical Bolognese Masters Station IV. and the paint.” offered an eloquent and memorable interpretation of the myth of “Tai-Yu Burying the Flower Petals. By the fifteenth century. Crucis or Via Dolorosa. One exception to this somewhat dispiriting trend was a single work in a collateral exhibition at the Biennale by the New York artist. This painting. Half a century later.” As an art historian. tional manner. depictions of human events. true to the detailed and crisply delineated prepa. on display at the Abbazia di San Gregorio in the exhibition “Future Pass. a number Giovanni Domenico Tiepolo and his aedicular frames of the artist’s own of outdoor shrines were constructed series can still be seen in the church design. precepts that have privileged recognizable form and narration over all other types of visual expression. as The New York Times reviewer put it. a backdrop of classical architec- cant moment in the Passion of Christ imagery. Christ Meeting his Mother and moved indoors. From age came to be called—was initiated by Vernon envision the iconographical there the narrative unfolds from right the Franciscan Order. The fourteen canvases. Mary Magdalene typifies the eventful Clement XII both extended the privi. Chronologically. Apart from seven to a side. the artist begins with journey with Christ Falling the Second lege to all churches. The church Few sacred narratives have been stage. Matisse. Individual scenes of the Passion middle distance. the subject of so unswerving an iconog. and it was only program in a traditional representa. but only in the early four. Despite the dramatic potential of that began with Christ before Pilate and teenth century did the hand of Giotto the subject matter. The devotion to the been moved to take up the challenge. recede in parallel planes as if on a New Vernon. engaged in “an unforgiving contest between the memorable and the forgettable. and. During transform the highly stylized icons of neither the visceral realism of Caravag- the Middle Ages. Compositions nently installed in a Catholic church in ventional today. Walking in the foot. the who wished to undertake the spiri.com Leonard Porter. Photo: leonardporter. Lenten season. each marking a signifi. NJ Readers of Sacred Architecture now have the opportunity to see an even had fluctuated between eleven and Porter’s aesthetic instincts are uncom- more ambitious effort by Porter perma. artist undertook the depiction the Sta. has always carried a metaphysical Deposition. Light blackness that attends the Crucifixion. he then generation of art historians as the Clas- appears in vivid red and blue sic-Baroque.com illumination of the seven Stations on the left aisle enters from the right while those on the right aisle come from the left. XIII. meaning in the sacred art of the Viewed altogether. for the Photo: leonardporter. of thoughtful and spirited grandeur. color of the sky reflects the accelerating rial perspectives. His Stations breathe From X-XIII. the source South Hadley. saries. At VII and VIII—the juncture ter’s paintings constitute independent between the two aisles—the centu- vignettes in a continuous narrative. and they (VIII) and returns in the direction of the continue moving to the left with the altar with Station XIV. Mary Magdalene—in red. before concluding with the the devotee compellingly. and Entombment (XII-XIV). Porter’s Stations of the illumination for the entire cycle. for nating from an altar. ture and sculpture. Porter chose example. tally nostalgic. predisposition to long-standing prin- The artist’s use of color brings ciples of classical art that include the focus to the movement of his quotation of earlier works of architec- compositions. Thus the cruelest moments of the Station XIV: The Entombment Passion are marked by the most excited gestures while the Cruci. After expressive mode known to an earlier this initial appearance. but it is neither against the dark setting and mindlessly derivative nor sentimen- earthy-toned accessory figures. Although Por. he appears in a new life into a seemingly forgotten Photo: leonardporter. The directional impulses begin Station I: Christ before Pilate at Station I with Pilate’s sharp left-ward gesture energizing the Christ Meeting the Women of Jerusalem symmetrical composition. Finally. in predeter. expressive energy rises and falls in keeping with the dramatic inten- sity of the individual vignettes. the viewer’s sightlines with the picto. sense of tumult and tragedy as it turns nation and purposeful direction. he is fully wrapped in a luminous white shroud while his extended right arm echoes Pilate’s gesture John Varriano is Emeritus Professor of Station IV: Christ meets His Mother in Station I but points now Art History at Mount Holyoke College in toward the high altar. of commissions calling for works to it regains a symmetrical stasis. Porter’s Stations West. A r t i c l e s mined locations). Porter’s work is certainly vestments that stand out sharply historically informed. in Christ’s final hours at X-XIV. whether conflated with the are characterized by a rational and dis- natural illumination of the church ciplined energy that. Color also plays a role in drawing our Their small scale and relatively attention to the Virgin Mary—garbed high placement above the floor in dark blue in IV. The artist’s style ed in the first Station wearing a has strong affinities to the late Renais- claret-colored tunic that visually sance and early seventeenth-century defers to Pilate’s white robe. and XIII.com Following the age-old tradition until. Finally in Station XIV. The progres- another in a variety of ingenious ways. MA. on the one hand. were conceived as site-specific. from blue to partially cloudy. couples an empirical eye—capable. yellow. or as a purely spiritual force ema. graininess of the cross as it weathers fixion (XII) and Entombment (XIV) abuses of its own—and on the other. of capturing the increasing the latter in New Vernon. a are the calmest. Christ is depict. the rion’s agitated horse redirects our at- individual depictions are related to one tention across the nave. The be viewed in situ (that is. to darkly ality of the compositions engage stormy. and XIV—and precluded—as a purely practi. sion then continues the leftward path Photo: leonardporter. XII. II-VII. but the illumi. Sacred Architecture Issue 20 2011 13 . and cal matter—the unification of the green in IV. The Entombment angling of both Christ and the cross in concluding the series. and do so with a unique sense complexion than do his adver.com white loincloth and has a lighter idiom. A r t i c l e s E cclesiastical S prawl R epair William Dowdy N ow in the midst of Advent. And it’s not just Christmas. a city official or district judge will decide that the right to religious freedom necessitates the immediate removal of all display of cultural celebration. chitecture began with the recognition in today’s world. ture. blocks of new housing and commer- hid. 14 Sacred Architecture Issue 20 2011 . while repositioning itself as a that for a plan like this to be practical. and when the less youth. but nev. quacies. VA Much effort has been put into fixing the sorry state of sacred architecture. These properties are increasing- A church is an image of our spiri. cial space proposed. Not only did our Photo: www. From crèches to Christmas trees. it is time to prepare for a new round of clashes between Church and State. city hall. And as churches have seques. the architecture will not to be casually dismissed. causes that have enticed churches to other by Daniel DeGreve.grenfellarchitecture. struction of better buildings. PLLC. Concerns about school prayer and courtrooms’ Decalogues perpetuate this controversy throughout the year. and decreasing the odds that their finances as well as the good will establishing a civic character for their a curious passerby will drop in on a of the congregation. even to Santa Claus. a distinction manifested in the pride of place granted to the church buildings: from simple white churches on village greens to grand cathedrals on city plazas. now commanding its hilltop whim. Grenfell Ar- ful edifice is a significant achievement the suburbs. These are serious motives. they have unsatisfying. time when parish finances are already and bustle of daily life. transcending the hustle they have made it difficult for the care. and poor to reach stretched. the church was integral to civic life. As programmatically obsolete architec- a practical means of evangelization. While creating a beauti. churches themselves that have chosen truly civic institution? but the relationship between a church to locate elsewhere.com society once tolerate these practices. Virginia might be rebuilt over time to when a congregation climbs the front Would a return to the public square both create a sustainable community steps of a prominently located church. churches have moved to remote desti. it reminds everyone that there is tered themselves geographically. In response to these inade- church faces a courthouse. their how a church property in a typical no profit in gaining the whole world at communities have sequestered the first ring suburb. churches need to recognize es and schools burden the Catholic stands in a sprawl of parking lots and that there are consequences for their Church in America today with large. strip malls. but she celebrated them! Churches once were recognized as pillars of the community. church from daily life. ban church continue to minister to its square. ly costly to operate and maintain at a tual nature. or them. Frustrated Christians ask how this has come to be. nations to allow for large parking lots. cause an immediate restoration of the and generate revenue to fund the con- they stand in witness to the whole com. A current view of St. elderly. John the Beloved Parish Church. for “a city on a hill cannot be but it would be a start. as well as a new suburban churches with a barrier of vested in their current locations and a school and rectory. such as in Northern the expense of one’s soul. it is typically the facilities. one by only beginning to receive the attention parking demands are just a few of the Grenfell Architecture. portant as a symbolic gesture and as alienated their former neighbors. and the it deserves. the parish could parking and landscaping isolating the return to the public square would tax gain a valuable source of revenue while church. church. and in two architectural studies. Despite the importance of being on parishioners and maintain its current Grenfell Architecture understood the public square.” In contrast to this are the many many congregations are deeply in. Moreover. As churches have relocated to under-utilized lots and aesthetically the church on the public square is im. liturgically problematic. With four munity. The traditional placing of actions. How can a subur. that hundreds of suburban church- always be incomplete if the church ertheless. real estate values. Church’s cultural prestige? Not likely. This question was recently explored and its surrounding environment is mographics. McClean. Unfortunately. Changes in de. follow their parishioners. Grenfell Architecture explored bank. By creating one and furnishes on-street parking. and ultimately European monasteries to California Complete commercial core won a first place prize in the design missions. the on-street spaces will be owners by example.com with the continuous operation of the church masterplan. rable for appraisers. “Generating an Urban Pattern churches as the anchor of the neighbor- in Suburbia: The Ecclesia Parochialis. and Symposium at Catholic University of the development must not interfere America. greens. This invitation is not an appeal intact and freeing the former parking to philanthropy. tional neighborhoods in suburbia. on sound business principles. the Church as a founder of cities. allowing the project to velopment that the site could easily use revenue from the first phase to accommodate—quite a lot.” hood is a return to the historic role of began as a graduate thesis at the Uni. ing suburban sprawl. the project could pay for itself. they reduced the initial capital campus and explored the level of de- requirement.com New Street Grid and parking Photo: www. plazas.grenfellarchitecture. and complete school lots to be the initial development sites. VA. shops. per acre. it is an argument built New church and square. encouraging them able to handle all the current parking to participate in the good work he has needs. Com.com existing streets. A r t i c l e s Photo: www. McClean. tion from a lengthy fundraising cam. this new interest in study.grenfellarchitecture.grenfellarchitecture. houses. as it turns fund subsequent development. Where the project is most provoca- paign. borhood with church.grenfellarchitecture. and the old build. bankers. Ulti.grenfellarchitecture. The In many ways. it needed to address two concerns: the competition at the 2010 Living Presence financial burden must be gradual. New school and finish residential row including the cost of the new school offices. the added value of the project. community gardens. school. the church gives the other ings can be demolished. From versity of Notre Dame. DeGreve designed a vibrant neigh- mately. thus saving the congrega. churches often have nurtured Sacred Architecture Issue 20 2011 15 . side of the beautiful perimeter streets. The first step is to create a block tive is in the way it explicitly engages structure with an appropriately scaled the surrounding land by extending the street grid that connects to adjacent urbanity of the site into the neighbor- Photo: www. responds to the site. By dem- Church and school can seamlessly onstrating how a successful project transition to the new facilities when boasts a significant increase in yield they are finally built. Like Grenfell Architecture’s Photo: www. Above is the finished neighborhood. and allows them to share in erty to become the seedbeds of tradi. land owners a good real estate compa- Daniel DeGreve’s project investigat. bined with new parking at the block DeGreve leads neighboring land interiors. DeGreve began church and school.com ed how churches could use their prop.grenfellarchitecture. By phasing their with an existing suburban church plan. John the Beloved Parish Church.com Photo: www. out. leaving the existing buildings begun.com The five site plans show several phases of the proposal for an urban neighborhood for Commercial core and new residential St. and de- Photo: www. velopers. and and church. DeGreve ing suburban churches as community centers. engaged in the public as well as private lives of the people. they po- sition themselves to restore their con- nection with society’s spiritual center. Though other architects need to expand and refine these ideas. or do they cower between Jiffy Lubes and AutoZones? The built The East Elevation of DeGreve’s parish church and school. The work of Grenfell Architecture and Daniel DeGreve stands as an over- ture by architects towards reinvent- Photo: © Daniel P. and bishops—that must embrace this vision for their property The North Elevation of the church and school if it is ever to become a reality. it is the churches themselves—congrega- tions. the opportunity has never been better for ecclesiastical sprawl repair. DeGreve Design. Though congregations have long been fighting the spiritual battles.” The nucleus of the neighborhood is the church. And as churches reconnect with the physical centers of society. and our churches are in a unique position to restore both. California. If we take time to observe the streets and buildings of the modern Ameri- Photo: © Daniel P. An aerial drawing of Daniel DeGreve’s thesis proposal: “Generating an Urban Pattern in Suburbia: The Ecclesia Parochialis. 16 Sacred Architecture Issue 20 2011 . Western civilization grew out of the foundation of security and education provided by the Church. Instead of finding this a dis- traction from their spiritual vocation. and the immediate site plan environment suffers from a soulless- ness similar to that which enervates our society. these churches recognized that the dual emphases on corporal and spiritual works of mercy were complementary.A r t i c l e s civilization under their protective mantle. With the confluence of the recession-fueled demand for rental housing and the fi- nancial distress of many churches and dioceses. DeGreve can landscape. Will Dowdy is an associate with Anderson|Kim Architecture+Urban Photo: © Daniel P. it is time for a renewed infusion of the Church into society by reasserting the church building on to the public square. pastors. He lives with his wife and two daughters in Chico. what do they tell us about the importance of our faith? Do our churches stand proud. dixoncatalog.1112 .323 N Central Avenue .Staunton.800.619.com church interiors & appointments Sacred Architecture Issue 20 2011 17 Dixon Studio . VA 24401 . ings. is determined by the The Aesthetic Theory of St. Thomas would tegritas sive perfectio: quae enim diminuta call it. along with the static or crystallized but rather coex. St. Et debita pro. does not exist by any theoretical that all contribute means only.archinform. It is the structural ture in general.years in the early thirteenth century.”1 These three properties—integ.net to his empirical experience in and of struction pro- that world. dence among all tence. convent and tensive with being. During its foundational adjoining gardens. to the physical world around him and design and con- Photo: eng.ary legislation which originally ex- and aesthetic reading. of architectural rity.”2 In the mind of St. nanapoli site is portio sive consonantia.that characterizes Dominican architec- adjacent monastery. Thomas’ beauty. Thomas complete realiza- Aquinas tion of what the work should be— In the thought of St. Thomas’ Summa Theologica its parts. there. there must rial. that he is not referring to because it pres- mere abstractions. cesses and results fore. Rome. due proportion. In the Order’s churches a distinct light of the Thomistic aesthetic theory Despite such an over-simplification seminal feature of the Dominican style will demonstrate how architecture can of St. St. Santi Domenico e Sisto. Thomas it the proper orga- seems that beauty is primarily a tran. architectural ele- connected from experience. complex in detail it is worth consider- Pontifical University of St. St. in tecture. is an Thomas explains that the form of an Praedicatorum architectural composite from the object is in fact its beauty—that which mid sixteenth century in the heart of “properly belongs to the nature of Before looking at the Magnanapoli the ancient city currently housing the a formal cause. a correspon- be a metaphysical ground for its exis. to created things. that is. due proportion measures to avoid anything sugges- complex and recognizing within it the and clarity. hoc ipso turpia sunt. and clarity—are beauty accord- therefore the qualities that make an ing to Thomistic object beautiful. It will also tent thing is based on the vital reality of cluded decorative architectural works demonstrate how sound architectural its form. Saints Dominic and Sixtus.A n A rchitectural and T heological I nterface : The Dominican Complex at Magnanapoli Christopher Evan Longhurst T he Dominican Complex thetic theory is the idea of form. formae. It is a quality of being that to the complex’s is transcendent yet it pertains to things overall splendor in the world. St. of buildings. Thomas Thomas form also is not something ing the particular conception of beauty Aquinas. always inspired by the desire to this theory. Rome. Thomas’ aesthetic theory it suf. part of the Angelicum complex One of the key concepts in his aes- 18 Sacred Architecture Issue 20 2011 . The Architectural Type of the Ordinis at Magnanapoli. planning. Dominic took strict purposefully at the Magnanapoli properties of integrity. 3 The Mag- sunt. dor of form)—as dinem tria requiruntur: Primo quidem in. an ideal example tas. Et iterum clari. and the church of principle in things and when it is ex. St. system of ideas however. but rather ments. or what is known ents an array of simply on the conceptual level. nization of mate- scendental quality.resulted from the friar’s own sumptu- provide a simultaneously theological fices to say that the beauty of any exis. according essence. or composite in life. and the expounds his definition of beauty in an consequent splen- expression that has become the essence dor formae (splen- of his aesthetic theory: “Ad pulchritu. or dis. then the object is said to be tive of luxury or affluence in its build- spiritual impetus of architecture in beautiful. Angelicum. Thomas explicates. Looking perienced on account of the subsisting the Order of St. the to find a solution to the most important beauty of a build- questions of purpose and fulfillment ing. In archi- development and organization is. grandi. gave great The Order even accepted the style of dynamic has produced an expression lightness and elegance to the new style the Renaissance when it had supplant. molded matter in a way which led to the Dominicans’ active apostolate and tion that is concretely expressed in the adoration of the mystery.adopted various styles of architecture volvement in the life of its urban sur- al austerity. to the principal idea of categorization practice that significantly influenced apostolicity. In the words of the Pope: “the func- the chief towns throughout Italy. Its prototype is recognizable in communities who turned away from Dominicans to further the ends and the Dominican complex at Magnanap- the cloistered regula of early monasti.rigorous scholarship in the context of both religious life through prayer and portance in the socio-political arena at a spiritual environment. The Dominican style of build. In general even to inspire. Rome. their history. porticoes. by Dominican architecture may be de. of its apostolate. mystery.ogous terms. hospitality and even by extension of those same categories suppressing richness of expression in solemn ceremony in the liturgical ex. truth The Dominican Complex at Magna- al work. and oftentimes they are qualities and re. learning and teaching. on account of fidelity to tradition. man and nature. church art values. which often went as far as and assisted in their diffusion and as. Sacred Architecture Issue 20 2011 19 . its architectural designs subsided. ment of the Magnanapoli complex is the finest churches with exquisite art. this architectural and panels under windows.unity. Such a astasia in Verona is a prime example. conjure a convic. This was undoubtedly a con.needs of their apostolate. qualities set it apart from the architec. the Dominican attitude towards osity. tion of the Thomistic system of ideas sum. of the ideals of Dominican religious of Dominican churches. ed the medieval forms and incorporat. The two modes of human activity―to have occupied some of the finest and rangement of its architectural struc. A greater in- except for in the choir. other in the spirit of Christian charity. On account of and to know God and understand Him The Dominicans projected their ap.Verona.by dedication to preaching. and the profession of total the Summa of Saint Thomas. therefore designed towards creating works. entation of the buildings towards the Santa Anastasia. God. prac. of in chapels. as in the present-day the Dominicans charism and it is reflected in the ar.”5 Conforming establishment in large urban areas. Subsequently. Every architectural unique style. Lateral altars were ligious ideals in a usually at the walls of the nave instead certain architec. through the truths of the Christian ostolic zeal and theological erudition tical elements such as large windows faith―are characteristics of one spirit. cism and embarked upon a more active of the Dominican Order is Veritas and apostolate of preaching and parochi.ed it into its own. for the motto oli.as their Angelic Doctor explains. Thomas’ theological discourse on the cultural milieu of the time. contemplative. religious spaces across the world. This architectur. A r t i c l e s into transforming in the buildings’ spacious study halls buildings in their allow for more light to enter and to ac- possession into commodate the contemplative aspect structures to ac. napoli Rome outside the monastic center and im. in the past tic quality is the essence of the Order’s arship through study and education. the study of Pope John Paul II writes in his Letter to ing came to reflect the community’s theology.medium capable of giving expression architectural type of the Ordinis Praedi- tions of the members’ foundational to religious beauty was used by the catorum. In point of fact. wide hallways were commodate serious built to create an atmosphere condu- scholarship and cive to prayer and silence. order. They staircases and fountains. Their verve thus extended and beauty are exchangeable and anal. roundings evolved. a abstract values of truthfulness. its building designs. beauty. spatial economy. practicality. community. This scholas.minican architecture has a strong over. The last two the beautiful and an intuition of the most splendid religious buildings. In pression of the Dominican Rite. splendor of St. has side altars at the walls of the nave. and and love.tone of “educational space” befitting a single environment conducive to sequence of the Order’s increasing im.”6 The architectural arrange- magnificent monasteries and some of ture of almost any other kind as Do.4 Aspects of the Domini- pacted the social and urban currents of can apostolate. praise God and love Him and each most important church buildings and tures as conducive to serious research. tional is always wedded to the cre- the end of the thirteenth century the scribed as theocentric. Dominican churches have large naves thereby creating a because of the importance of public fusion of aesthetic preaching. the safeguarding of Christian Artists: “[…] where theology produced socio-religious ideals and fundamental doctrine. Extended to all of the suppression of capitals on columns similation for new means and ends. magnificence. ative impulse inspired by a sense of Dominicans were in possession of the monastic and didactic. practice was typical One of the most innovative aspects of the Dominicans of Dominican architecture was the ori- in general through. These values become tan.the Order’s emphasis on study. without side aisles. which may be called the quired its distinction from the aspira. life and has gone on to assume its own Dominican architecture also ac. The church of Santa An- Photo: David Carillo tural type. and to academic schol- the time. which is characterized It is no coincidence that Blessed its time. out the course of exterior by means of façades. into its external architectural designs. the Magnanapoli also on account of the rise of churches gible in the physical manifestations of complex is an architectural manifesta- and convents known as opus sumptuo. The munal living. it is no surprise that one buildings are inte.Thomas’ system of ideas. this order is combined with napoli complex. human soul. Thomas’s definition of beauty of nature they find value in architec. ordered hierar . from a translation of the language Thus St. qualities among material things. An emergent and inter- 20 Sacred Architecture Issue 20 2011 . for from nature is taken the supernatural. and idea and truth the Magnanapoli complex is unified. tecture and theology. pro. knowledge and space are brought to- Like the scope of both the Order’s The architecture of the Magnanapoli gether through an intimate association theological purpose and academic complex not only reveals the character between architecture and theology. or rather. and drawn into the space by the beauty of Magnanapoli complex thus possesses educational development. and one in which ing projects. due proportion and of how both depend substantially on architectural morphemes that combine clarity constituting the splendor formae the deeper meanings of a reality envi- into more inclusive forms. which satisfies the senses upon the converging and interacting of archi- supplement religious ends and ideals. nature as its inspiration. On account lect perceives the attributes of form. a kind of reliance on self-as. sound and healthy Augustine expressed. and the transcen- find the answers to life in general and dence of the human spirit is expressed. religious formation.building being appreciated upon being tion in time and space of the physical. Thomas in his goal of present- principles of nature ing a methodology to consider the re- Courtyard of the Magnanapoli complex which display an lationships among all things. cepts of truth and beauty united with the heart to spiritual matters. intellectual senses. This process is the conditions of beauty that make it composite surpasses each one of these achieved by the aesthetic appeal of the purposes. It thus expresses a correla. Splendor veri is a Photo: picasa “Leandra” and the entire aes. enced. The Dominican complex at Magna- Nature reveals an napoli is also an example of the splen- underlying order dor veri in architecture. sitive and emotional appetites of the a comprehensive whole. characteristics of this Magnanapoli ics by which the complex. however. given the unifying cesses and aesthet.these properties and the observer is rial limitations of the human mind.A r t i c l e s material and from connected encounter between material nature is learned and nonmaterial properties is experi- the systems. In architecture. an experiencing the complex comprises an interplay of ties of integrity. sembly. Behind its walls these two disciplines does not conform to any one particular tion to this force. transcend the rational confines of the age or style but rather unites the legiti.as “pulchra dicuntur quae visa placent” is tural designs. the complex human mind penetrating to the sen- mate styles of its respective ages into demonstrates how the human intel. Prescinding from St. appearances of its buildings the con- holy—building to uplift the mind and pressions. This experience approaches a nature is the goal of Dominican archi.fully enjoyable. it also elicits a reac. as on the one hand. primarily between form and matter To achieve these goals in architecture chy of structures. The faculties of the sioned in and above the material limita- Magnanapoli complex can be used human mind then sense the quality of tions of physical space and the immate- for a variety of purposes such as com. In fact the emulation of fulfilled. platonic term referring to the relational thetic theory of St. feeling. being seen due to its inherent proper.movement which is both natural and Arcade at the courtyard of the Angelicum tecture. One the observer.ously at peace and inspired in such a forms architecture to nature by taking space. in the Dominican architectural typology on the other. In relation to the Magna- proportion. Moreover. environment. the unified the integral structure. It con. In nature the Dominicans thought. fitting form to function. perceived and its image impressed intellectual and spiritual strengths of upon the external sensory receptors of what it means to be fully human.the human spirit finds itself simultane- ings of its physical environs. A spiritual and material of the Dominican friars’ capacity to in this case an architectural compos. displays.blogspot. It was Thomas is said to revisited by the Schoolmen and upheld be based on the by St. the architecture of this complex of a spiritual force. and above all directional. beyond the exterior that is. feels at peace in this environment for grated to create a peace is “the tranquility of order” as St.com achieves its purpose by a harmonious ternal sensory faculties and this is why relationship with the natural surround. as its The entire environment becomes solution to the complexity of its build. communication is achieved through unify diverse architectural designs to ite. goals. The observer subse- The Magnanapoli complex also quently enjoys their reception in the in- Photo: athomeinromewithmonicastiles. The properties intuited may describe it as a microcosm of the by the mind then arouse visual ap- civitatis Dei—the peaceful dwelling preciation that is passed to the interior place of all believers. While the contained within. it has purpose: making space functional properties and aesthetic ex. of the Dominican ideal of truth and 1 Summa Theologica. The Dominican Complex upon the physical surroundings the tecture’s structural methods as a model at Magnanapoli Rome provides that criterion for a religious ideal. pp 45. 234 4 Summa Theologica. unity is upheld in the cohe. exposing an insightful tural design. theological ideal inspiring an architec- mation unfolds. that is. the harmony of layout. 12. In the ar. architecture. though it is reason. As such.com Characterized by an emphasis on co- hesive unity among variety. It is a remarkable testimony to how subsist in things. in a mind-based knowledge of God. 4 the congruency of buildings and their The integral structure. on account of the equilibrium between of these properties—beauty. Umberto Eco. engaged. I. generate a sense of assimilation into both the natural and supernatural spheres. order and unity. order. while integrity is dialogue with contemporary culture. ing adherence of each discipline to the architecture reflects theology and how able to confirm that it manifests beauty values of their respective canons. aesthetics. become insepara. tive conditions of beauty really only maintained through the uncompromis. while in the theology the dynamism of its pedagogical and beauty is seen through the radiance of religious functions. evidence of a tradition and a history apprehension of its physical forms. The architecture itself does cal and theoretical contexts. but even the ordinary passer-by who has the opportunity to see the beauty of its buildings with magnificent pan- oramas. the attractiveness of the grounds. incorpo. or conformity with. with a specialization in theological so well unified in a reciprocal relation. The Aesthetics of Thomas chitecture. A r t i c l e s the students who partake of the in- struction afforded by its professors. Letter to Artists (1999). received his doctorate in theology context of a religious vision. In the end this complex celebrates the a formal perfection and the intellect’s unity and integrity. unity and integrity. art and religion and works as a docent at the one hand and sanctification and preach. and to understand archi. the Mag. 4. This impresses architecture. ble and. the form and matter. Aquinas. lationships and striking sensory effects concentrated on the complex’s formal sion of the relational quality of practi. and a material. ad 1 order. or walk within its halls and gardens. In both those who live within its walls and Sacred Architecture Issue 20 2011 21 . that one does not exist encounter between the science of theol- without the other. This is the embodiment (Endnotes) occupation with the notions of beauty. 5. beauty is experienced in one subject. Each theology inspires architectural beauty. intellectual and spiritual for. It thereby the language for the structural design offers a source of architectural wealth of its buildings. logical principles. something grand. 8 parts. and through the perception of potency of its architectural forms to 6 Ibid. encounter. as it were. In this harmony a ogy and the art of architecture. form unique manifestations of that the human person is a partaker of impetus of the architecture is founded the dynamism of one spirit. I. thereby it affords a Christopher Evan Longhurst. born in New and organization that is relevant in the profoundly religious and architectural Zealand. in the overall message of a theological not “create” this beauty. Conclusion Photo: bing. while remaining interdepen. and this dialogue is well seen person “ad imaginem Dei” as the center questions about the spiritual vitality of in an encounter between theology and of human existence. and in the human serves as a prototype to respond to divine. for. with an integration of the visible and invisible. beauty simultaneously identifying the 3 Cf. What can be seen here is how from the Pontifical Angelicum University Scholastic and monastic activity are architecture “lives” in a religious body (Rome). from the 5 John Paul II. to contribute in a meaningful way to structure. and how its religious message is in. ing on the other. sound theo. 8 2 Ibid. It is the ideal form of tural homogeneity of form and matter architecture functioning for theological where the characteristics of order and purposes and of theology providing unity dominate over variety. and the overall sense of relational order. The grandness of scale. for the objec. He writes on the intersections of ship of studying and learning on the carnate in masonry. the spiri- tual and material. interface. a The Magnanapoli complex thus in a dialogue between creation and the rationalistic logic. inspires not only the truth on its subject matter. nanapoli complex is an example of an papal art galleries of the Vatican Museums. 39. I. the Mag- nanapoli complex achieves a harmony Aerial view of the Magnanapoli buildings and gardens between form and matter in which they are brought together in spatial re- attract the observer when attention is contexts. rating into the environs the architec. of faith that points to the conviction The undergirding theological dent. 1988. inset in large stone port. some ways. chitect seems to be shocked The massing. is. dedicated to the Holy Face of Christ. at first glance.wikimedia. Yet Mario Botta’s 2006 Chiesa del Santo Volto. at least interesting. which seats 700.A r t i c l e s A F aceless S anto V olto Mario Botta’s Conference Room Tomb Matthew Alderman T hat churches are still being built in Italy. a nation where regular mass-goers make up less than 30 percent of the population and that possesses a birthrate that would make your Sicilian grandmother weep. a repurposed factory chimney. A filigree coil running round its within a simple shell. The only bells are mounted at the bottom of the icons appear to be a pixilatedly chimney and not the top.org continues upon the discovery that the browns and beiges. The topsy-turvydom music in a narrow spectrum of Photo: www. head. and into the back wall and a slim the immense stone holy water fonts cross of light hovering far over- are striking. modernistic churches. ary paving a glossy black. the inte- shaft seems comparatively whimsi. As a consequence. with the only real relief pientiæ timor Domini. The church’s campa. and an coming from the tops of periscope-like improvement on the Gentle light-wells and the interplay of shadow Jesus of beige wall-to-wall car- on blank walls. is news not unlike Dr. the sanctu- reminiscent of a mechanical cog-wheel. if austerely modernistic. while vigorous. This is. The entrance and the campanile of Santo Volto ingly industrial feeling pervades the design. the ar- scribed as “nail-heads” by the architect. and The shaft-like central volume of the the abstract-looking presider’s church is formed by an assemblage of chair has an almost Pharaonic seven towers. nile. rior is little more than ominous cal until one discovers it to be a spiral Philip Glass background of metal thorns. 22 Sacred Architecture Issue 20 2011 . is not face of the Turin Shroud inset without a certain blank majesty. Johnson’s comment about a dog walking on its hind legs: one is surprised it is being done at all. “Thorn 3”). surrounded by a lower gravity to it. Built at a cost of 5 million euro in a former industrial neighborhood of Turin with the Frank Herbert-ish name of Spina 3 (literally.org Photo: www. Unlike churches of past ages is crowned with an eminently legible that hid symphonic interiors cross.wikimedia. is unre. de. peting―but it is hardly enough. into an arid silence in the pres- lieved by any humanizing ornament ence of the divine. Yet.org a larger town center complex repur- posing the buildings of an abandoned set of steel mills―a heartening and humane urban gesture―and the church uses a number of recycled elements as well. Both are almost invisible The interior of Santo Volto holes at the entrance. as with other circle of fourteen further volumes. it adjoins an office complex for the arch- diocesan curia. in to give a sense of scale save a diagram. a start―initum sa- matic cross. never mind questions about quality. Botta has described the plan as is white marble. a disconcert. It is the centerpiece of Photo: www. The massive altar to the casual viewer.wikimedia. abstract interpretation of the The interior. tion. the translation speaks of “a conference room tomb” under the main level―presumably a crypt-level parish hall. It is a curiously bland black. While something like this can be done. Do people who live in an in. less psychologically healthy. who scraped and saved their pennies to None of that here: God is dead. Here. but there must be the death of her Creator: the sun turns a retrograde nostalgia for the heroic room for Easter. we have strayed into a bleak with the acerbic title. Kansas. of a recent essay by Dante scholar beef. lacking the quakes shake the world. earth- worker.wikimedia. can be worked into sacred buildings without traumatizing the faithful too much. but the Freudian slip nonetheless accurately describes the entire project. screen. Such tropes. Coming from a culture that evocation of Good Friday. for people for whom “oatmeal” and dustrial park need to be so thoroughly Everywhere one turns there appears “eggshell” are favorite colors. don’t make a scene. equal wonder that the Italian factory-workers parts passion-flower and passion-nail. and of the home of the genuine Holy Face. The result is. Edward Schul- te’s mid-century modern-traditional cathedral at Salina. It is all Matthew Alderman is an architect did not build sanctuaries that looked very tasteful. true. It is a church dedicated horrendously tacky. MA. they were cartoons everything wrong with the peculiar- Plains are more than grain elevators. It is no Guarini’s Holy Shroud Chapel. “When Drab is of Thorn 3 are more than their Bogaro cityscape unworthy of de Chirico at his a Favorite Color. operatic grandeur of Sicilian rise from their graves. on reflec. and beauti. It helps that the interior is embellished with genuine iconography and built on an authen- tic liturgical plan. Photo: www. pay for the gaudy churches of Chicago move along. I am reminded. most cryptic. and old men spends its time behind a computer splattery. draws on the Hollywood Midwest cliché of grain elevators in its design. none- theless. But Christ’s death was Such an endless litany of cogwheels. holy week or the black baroque gloom talized as a china shepherdess. it ought not to be done often. the nostalgia is as sentimen. of something good.org The face Christ of Turin the sanctuary In an English description of the church. or steel. ly epicene culture of post-modernity and presumably the good Christians ful. the moon turns to blood. Nature cries out at smokestacks. who lives and works in Concord. The industrial aesthetic that pervades the project is partially justified by the site’s history. While often caricatures Anthony Esolen. and bare walls suggests to Christ in the tomb. The Great of the Old Country.” This is the Passion steel mills. to draw blood. who encapsulated Sacred Architecture Issue 20 2011 23 . or even reminded of the fact? a blank wall or a corner sharp enough colors at all. not without problems. if they are insisted upon. like places that churned out shoes. the Beauty of Love”). Today. dear artists. Today. the Solemnity of Saints Peter addressed to me. Precisely in the homily of the Mass pro eligendo Pontifice. has that began on 21 November. The Church and I thank you for the friendship and the invitation to present one of your artists once again encounter each other. literature and poetry. To the extent that we draw close to Christ.flickr. an event which I still logue. kindness which you have shown me. designs on display at the Vatican. at which I have sation which should and must become Dean of the College of Cardinals. which is so significant and important to me. I am sincerely grateful for York was one of several architectural your closeness on this anniversary. the B eauty of L ove Exhibition Honoring the Pope’s 60th Ordination Anniversary Address by His Holiness Benedict XVI His Holiness Benedict XVI gave the following address at the inauguration of the exhibition “Splendor of Truth.” a tribute of artists to the Holy Father on the occasion of the 60th anniversary of his priestly ordination. “veritatem facientes in caritate” (4:15).andrewcusack. you present me with the fruit of your creativity. of your talent. in our own 24 Sacred Architecture Issue 20 2011 . the joy and the curiosity to admire your ever more intense and articulate. Venerable Brothers in the Episcopate and in the Priesthood. allow me to stop for a moment and reflect on the evocative title of this Exhibition: “Lo splendore della verità. is meant as a new step in which it also may offer to culture. or rather of the Pontifical Council for Culture a journey of friendship and dialogue the cultures of our times. I added. expressions of the various artistic environments which you repre- sent: painting. President works. “Truth and love Horizonte.
Dear Friends. 2009 in the example of fruitful and effective dia- organized this unique artistic exhibition Sistine Chapel. especially gift of my priestly vocation. I also extend my and Paul.com “Portal PBH” (“The Splendor of Truth. Before I admire them to- gether with you. and I said that to “make truth in love” was a fundamental formula for Chris- The model of Oscar Niemeyer’s proposal for the Cathedral of Cristo Rei in Belo tian existence. I com- mented on the beautiful expression of St Paul in the Letter to the Ephesians. music. The address was given at the Paul VI Audience Hall in the Vatican on July 4. our world. to speak together and sustain a conver- cordially greet Cardinal Angelo Sodano. la bellezza della carità” Photo: www. I creations in this Exhibition. architecture. on display at the Vatican coincide in Christ. the Beauty of Love. you. I thanked the Lord for the greeting to everyone present.D o c u m e n t a t i o n T he S plendor of T ruth . an eloquent who.andrewcusack. together with his colleagues.com Y our Eminences. Our meeting today. so that Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi. Brazil. cinema. goldsmithery. who have accepted hold dear in my heart. During the Eucharistic Celebration and I thank him for his courteous words of 29 June. more human and more beautiful. John the Divine in New priesthood. Photo: www. It is a great joy for me to meet you and to receive your creative and multiform tribute on the occasion of the 60th Photo: www.com Santiago Calatrava’s model for the anniversary of my ordination to the completion of St. of your reflection. sculpture. 2011. aimed at making this. every existence. be always. but with the richness of our hearts and your genius. truth and love are blended. the Beauty. their beauty elicit in the gaze and in the ence here and for bringing a ray of this cisely from union. riching it with that treasure which is entire world of art. that tic creativity from truth and from love. It is pre. for your pres- clanging cymbal” (I Cor 13:1). Beauty. was also on display at the exhibition. capable of elicit. This is the mosque he designed in Rome in 1974. which was on display at the Vatican lives too. which warms do not ever search for beauty far from our minds and truth and love. author nality. architect. one day. and guide you Dear friends. which is God. I wish to renew to you towards the and all artists a friendly and passion. let truth in all its splendor. Once again. love.org Architect Mario Botta’s design for the Cathedral of Evry. always and love to strike us in the intimacy of illuminate you our hearts and make us more human. for which we Photo: Darrell Ronald The work of Paolo Portoghesi. from the symphony of perfect harmony desire and need to make their existence Truly from my heart. which makes life a work ing. it needs love that enflames and of every beauty that is not overwhelmed by pride and that is in the egotism. truth and witnesses to love. We need the beauty of truth world. courageously. wonder and true joy in never lacking. I impart to all of between truth and love that an authen. of your creative leanings. en. The world in which we of art and every man an extraordi- live needs the truth to shine brightly nary artist: charity. I would like to say hearts of those who admire them. D o c u m e n t a t i o n Photo: wikimedia. my Apostolic Bless- ing admiration. human hearts. to the world. Sacred Architecture Issue 20 2011 25 .org Photo: wikimedia. final and lasting ate appeal: do not ever separate artis. Spirit. May the Holy W and not to be obscured by lies or ba. seekers of the wait. to be able to contemplate Love without truth would be blind. you and to your loved ones and to the tic beauty emanates. beautiful and true. France. thank truth without love would be like “a shine brightly in your works and make you for your friendship. existed for Issues as long as we have had buildings. another a rabbinical student. worship space them to write knowledgeably about ton’s Symphony Hall. Although acoustics is also a faculty of religious Photo: Worship Space Acoustics major priority in worship spaces. the authors’ acteristics. a Harvard levels of education. This in.interdisciplinary backgrounds allow as the acoustical consultant for Bos. shape. Sound Systems for Clarity and Architectural acoustics as an en. acoustics is usually administrators. budgets. emerging calling for a book of this nature. and jects. on the authors are com- first page.music (citing specific compositions hall designed using quantitative acous.” “blended. organists halls are often cited to evoke images and organ build- of acoustical excellence. Metrics for Room Acoustics reverberation and echo—are brought 6. these areas. Stamford. Planning for Good Room materials of enclosed spaces and Acoustics are physical consequences of these 8. and sons with interests aesthetics. Most. music. Sound-Absorbing Materials These effects—the most familiar being 5. ers. Simulation and Prediction about by the size. Given these historical beginnings all. a relatively new field. and the best concert clergy. 4. Fundamentals: Nature of Sound acoustics which deals with 2. Kleiner. 10. In concert halls. FL: almost unavoidable. tors and suppliers. thus son. experience. contrac- ments have occurred. Room Acoustics Fundamentals produced within architectural spaces. Fort Lauderdale. In a significant departure from other in a lecture hall in the Fogg Museum and liturgy. the first concert acoustics involves a multiplicity of per. Sound Isolation and Other Noise phenomena have. architec. Torres.synagogues.95 context and perspective. because of this he was hired terdisciplinary foundation is signifi. Christian churches. The introduction lists prospective cal. it is educational institu- often compromised by liturgical and tions.acoustical topics to worship spaces. Reverberation gineering discipline is. but the authors J. such as Carn. worship spaces are used more the roots of archi- 26 Sacred Architecture Issue 20 2011 . architectural acoustics. students and egie Hall. styles such as “liturgical. Muslim mosques. where most of the re. (Given ceiling apex with tilted side walls. CT combines a small primary subject of room-acoustics re.matter of objective criteria. cant because in practice. spectives and priorities. and layper- architectural imperatives. search. a key motivating factor: fortable with ter- “Although concert halls have been a minology from all The First Presbyterian Church. correct speech intelligibility problems tics. but rather search and scientific design develop. Ross Publishing. ISBN generally put such terms in proper 9781604270372. and finish 7. Part II includes on Harvard’s campus.ecumenical perspective. Sabine and diversity: beyond their strong tech. This suggests that tural acoustics has focused primarily readers as “architects and students of “optimal” acoustics is not strictly a on concert halls.” etc. Hearing the audible effects imparted to sounds 3. of these priorities are brought to the liturgy. one author is a priest. 328 pp. David Lloyd Klepper. perhaps and styles).B o o k R e v i e w T he N ature of S ound Worship Space Acoustics. by compari. and the use of “stage” and “audience” is Rendell R. Quiet architectural elements. These audible 9. In addition to this to quantify and predict acoustical char.) The book is divided into two parts. was called upon to interdisciplinary perspectives in acous. building con. and a broad range of worship and the importance of sound quality table in this book. sultants. By Mendel tectural acoustics in the concert arena. $89. in religion and ar- It is significant that the authors of chitecture. therefore.” The Worship Space Acoustics state. Considered the endeavors have extraordinary breadth three separate chapters on Jewish father of architectural acoustics. the top priority.” Photos and sketches of churches and in the early twentieth century when The authors possess exceptional synagogues illustrate particular sub- Wallace Clement Sabine. Reviewed by Dennis Fleisher Part I is a textbook-like survey of the basic elements of architectural acous- W orship space acoustics is tics: a branch of architectural 1. clearly relating these standard physics professor. frequently and by more people. engineering. church documents on tics. 2010. and was the first to develop a scientific basis nical credentials. Their past and present books on acoustics. architecture.” “evangeli- in music performance halls. Williams R. Architectural Art Glass and Mosaic Established 1847 W Appointed 1882 „Royal Bavarian Art Est. Dennis@ musonics.org www.” new 32 Clerestory Stained glass windows needed to be equal or closest possible to style and quality of the original 1911 windows. Germany majority of his work has been in liturgical spaces including over 250 churches and Phone: 1-888-661 1694 chapels and 30 cathedrals. and equations sup- plement and support the principles dis- cussed. and education since 1981. The authors’ goal in writing for such a broad range of readers is ambitious. seven downloads (approximately 4MB) This new church had acquired and had been ‘built around’ a substantial number of original including an errata sheet and new 1911 Mayer of Munich windows from a closed down Orphanage in Philadelphia. For speech. The availability of downloadable supplements. and case studies. errata. a detailed summary of HVAC noise calculations. the New York City home of North America’s oldest Jewish con- gregation. this means making allowances for trained orators and lay readers. and an editorial review of drafts for this publication. music Seidlstrasse 25 performance. and offer more detailed coverage of areas not included in the original book.com Sacred Architecture Issue 20 2011 27 . commentary. Church. NY. PA.15 (“S” for synagogue) about Hearth Israel. Dennis Fleisher has served as an acoustics consultant and Mayer of Munich a designer of spaces for worship. The 80335 Munich. I was fortunate to contrib- ute to the book as well by providing photos. The authors’ personal experience and interests in the worship spaces they mention make the notes particularly intriguing: the three-and-a-half-page endnote S. it includes everything from a cappella chant to amplified instrumental and vocal ensembles. Worship Space Acoustics is a useful resource and should be an ever-renewing source of Franz Mayer of Munich information. Graphs.“ A native of Rochester. TX. Round Rock. Stained Glass. The topics such as “Choosing an Organ. tables. and updates from the publisher will keep the book’s ma- terial fresh and current.C. Less than a year A section of one of 32 Clerestory Windows – 2009 to 2011 – for after its publication date. B o o k R e v i e w highly dependent on specific styles of worship and the nature of the sound sources involved. for music. there are St.mayer-of-munich. along with explanations of elements of Jewish services likely to be unknown or unfamiliar to visitors of other faith traditions. offers an invitation to attend a service there. Most readers of Sacred Architecture should find the book a useful refer- ence. together with useful references ranging from acoustics textbooks and engineering journals to publications of the United State Conference of Catho- lic Bishops. ISBN: 978-0521836722. of Athens and received his Ph. who were Arians. The famous early Christian and author assembles all the information Still. Photo: www. visioned. structures. Its and inscriptions. view of the Roman city. $99. The following two chapters treat accessible information to be used and arly publications investigate individual one of the most interesting phases in understood. outlines the conditions in which early corded throughout the Middle Ages. reconstructions and three dimensional latest contribution to this field. merit of this work once its scope and chapters. well con. the ent from the ones of Late Antiquity. the author explains how essen- Byzantine churches of this city. New York: nature of the approach. the book allows typically in- Deichmann. makes most complex and opaque aspects written testimonies with the interpre. This precious heritage. Al. It starts with an attempt to tural framework. Reviewed by Nikolaos D. nected to Constantinople. This careful analysis of architectural forms records with information from written subject has been repeatedly explored in and structures with the description and testimonies. The recent book by Deborah the capital of the Ostrogothic kingdom varied illustrations (such as graphic Mauskopf Deliyannis constitutes the The survival of a series of churches se. when it gradually became a of this period and its symbolism. tracing the at the National Technical University history of the city from the Byzan. Ravenna the best site to study Arian of Ravenna’s architecture and urban tation of architectural forms. that the keys to the survival of Raven- examples of mosaic decoration.com making a clear-cut distinction between the two. na’s Late Antique monumental fabric and polychromous marble revetment. W Chapter Six is dedicated to early Nikolaos Karydis studied architecture Byzantine Ravenna. aspects of the history of Late Antique 489 to 540. admired. political. the author pays equal atten- tion to architectural forms. period. These surveys combine the from buildings and archaeological of Antiquity to the Middle Ages. The author forms. art. alongside countless site considered defensible. describing them thoroughly and points do not detract from the great subject chronologically in five main reviewing them within their broad cul. the monuments and illuminate particular Ravenna’s history. for the first time in English. The me. and re- teenth and the twentieth centuries. Embodying all the latest the past. the period from AD reader may register a few limitations. tial parts of the Late Antique city kept them restored drastically in the nine. By Deborah reader is impressed by the multifaceted Photo: sacred-destinations. has the potential to ticulous surveys of monuments such approach to the history of early Chris- shed light on the complex artistic and as Santa Croce and the Mausoleum tian and Byzantine Ravenna stimu- cultural developments that marked of Galla Placidia form the core of this lates reflection by combining evidence the transition from the last centuries section. and economic portunity to study the history of a major military and naval base. establishments are radically differ- major urban center of the Late Antique though the evidence is limited. establishment−became the capital of It is difficult to do justice to the high preted with the help of written records the Western Roman Empire. the fact that and mosaics. It display a wide variety of sophisticated fifth-century Ravenna−occupying a is partly in this period of maintenance architectural forms. 2010. fresco. Based on the Cambridge University Press.com Mauskopf Deliyannis. Still. 28 Sacred Architecture Issue 20 2011 . quality and wide scope of this book. This refers to a period fifth or sixth century offers a rare op. On the other hand. ments such as the Capella Archivesco. tends to emphasize the study of ecclesi- times to the end of the Byzantine era. the by the British Archeological Reports.B o o k R e v i e w B yzantine O utpost in the W est Ravenna in Late Antiquity. His next book on Early of the churches of San Vitale and Byzantine Architecture will be published Mausoleum of Galla Placidia Sant’Apollinare in Classe. these This survey organizes this vast vile.sacred-destinations. but avoids history. Deliyannis also pays limits are realized. astical art and architecture. whose cultural. most of available to present a sketchy over. easily pro. and lacking a strong pagan are to be found. Skill. as well as numerous schol. 444 careful consideration of all available pp. Chapter Three being maintained. The book ends with a short chapter on the history of the city The preservation in Ravenna of Christ the Good Shepherd over the as capital of the Byzantine Exarchate more than twelve churches from the entrance of the Galla Placidia (AD 600 – 850). refers coherent picture makes it an invaluable to the theories concerning Arian and resource for all students of Ravenna’s Orthodox stylistic concepts. curely known to have been used by the drawings) would help to capture the fully interweaving the evidence of Ostrogoths. and architecture. More importantly. frescoes.D in the tine reconquest to the end of the sixth Conservation of Historic Buildings at the century. This section includes surveys University of Bath. As usual. during which the city was For instance. research. as Sant’Apollinare Nuovo. but also are churches makes for a treatment that the history of Ravenna from the Roman draws attention to lesser known monu.00 sources. Karydis and iconography. this publication seeks to carefully surveys major churches such almost all the surviving monuments recount. The standard works of F. sacred art and architecture. more numerous and Ravenna. The wealth of in- visualize the city during the Roman particular attention to the iconography formation in this book organized into a period. interpretation of the surviving mosaics. W. correctly inter. even longtime practitioners subdivided into whatever topics the finer points of ecclesiastical theology will be tasked with obscure entries on author feels are worthy of deeper illu- may well be disappointed. as a considerations pertaining to the nave. material is superficial or of no inter. however. multifaceted and deep-seated topic is addressed comprehensively. provid- architectural publishing imprint Rizzoli progression from encompassing con. choirs. the structure and purpose of ecclesiastical buildings. some of the author’s terminology is through a two-page introduction. Yet this book—the second in a series field guide. author to distill sweeping topics with tion of material easily navigated by vir- Instead. Dietz T his book is self-described as a A chimera is different than a gargoyle in “pocket primer for decoding that it does not channel water. Inc. and programmatically varied And so this book is highly effective al categories. $17. the selected material is intend. Thomas M. and iconogra- the author’s target audience. ing a survey of vaulting and buttresses.” One would ing type. New York—manages to address the cepts to constituent components. this guide is espe- tion of a genre—with all its complex tralized Plans’—into a two-page entry cially accessible to younger readers and forms and myriad components—into containing roughly six paragraphs and perhaps most appropriate for those de- a handy tome made accessible to those five illustrations. theory and criticism Comparison of different Classical Orders pertaining to build. in each case. decorations. While most of the taining to furnishings. The guide ultimately con- precision. and stalls. as buildings sis of building materials and a formalist of this typology are perhaps the most consideration of floor plans. As the written material ed to be a strictly visual guide. with this book intentionally avoids the more of his own invention. own two-page section..at MIT. a friend. the subject matter’s complexity. subject matter or who wish to synthe. or a loved one—espe- of the material through the author’s synthesizing the full breadth of ecclesi. astical architecture so effectively. Each of these categories is then seeking a didactic discourse on the course. The result is a concerns that directed the evolution of After all. accompanying stand the purpose of the material and author’s selections are well within the structures. Photo: How to Read Churches McNamara. and hardly any each specific subcategory assigned its complex. transitioning into church type expect this to be a rather daunting task and style before moving into an analy- for any author to tackle. est to professionals. By Denis R. 2011. the subject—will find this to be an ef- To achieve his fective and charming introduction that objective the author would do well to find itself in a trav- follows a logical eler’s luggage. particularly when en progression from route to Europe. one could hardly expect the straightforward and intuitive organiza- ecclesiastical design through history. Organized into W clear categories. ‘Neoclassical Architecture’ or ‘Cen.’ Admittedly. The book symbolically infused. as this book topics ranging from the ‘rundbogenstil’ mination. New York: Rizzoli Interna- tional Publications. ISBN 9780847835980. 256 pp. stylistically is then subdivided into composition- diverse. the A practicing architect. do not mean the portals. Each heading is described renewal in liturgical studies. and facades and issues in question with economy and parameters. Photo: How to Read Churches large themes to specific examples. phy. much debated boundaries—topics like tually anyone. Such domes and cupolas. a reduc. beginning with spatial structures of the western tradition. cludes with a variety of headings per- As with any book. Sacred Architecture Issue 20 2011 29 . B o o k R e v i e w In the F ield How to Read Churches: A Crash Course in Ecclesiastical Architecture. without consciously veloping a nascent interest in ecclesias- who either lack a grounding in the embracing the required reduction in tical design and theology. of architectural ‘crash course’ pocket short paragraph entries on a variety of Specifically structural components guides released under the premier subjects organized into a recognizable next enter into consideration. heavily illustrated with apses. one must under. Indeed. Yet Those seeking a book for them- size their already nebulous knowledge nothing in recent years comes close to selves. sanctuaries. is fully illustrated. for its intended purpose: that is. and ‘misericord’ to ‘fictive shingles’ provided to flush out the subject matter demic inquiries that spurred the recent and ‘billet moldings. with a handful of examples is far removed from the barrage of aca. Those realm of ordinary architectural dis.95 Reviewed by Thomas M. author begins with Dietz completed his graduate education in thematic concepts architectural history. cially those with limited knowledge of bullet-point exactitude. ”1 Archi. Augustus Welby Pugin’s The True Prin- ing of the Faith. St. The nineteenth-century architect Our Lady of Refuge. Byrne also incorporated the more beautiful houses of worship. James the use of natural materials. tect Patrick Byrne of Dublin designed Byrne succeeded in designing a few an array of new church buildings in Gothic churches around Dublin after and around Dublin during this flower. Replacing a church only eigh- Irish Academic Press. Photo: www. Brigid. 189 pp. by our hands. 1900. especially during a century amidst the beatitudes of eternity upon scourged by the Great Potato Famine this paradise restored. while the thermal windows of Architecture degree from the University century.00 with Corinthian pilasters and a dome over the crossing. Church attendance ative of the Athenian Monument to Thomas D. Lady of Refuge in Rathmines. after his death. and both public and private funds sance.of Notre Dame and is an architectural de- attending Mass in 1840 to 90 percent by doen’s are reminiscent of the churches signer in Indiana. Dublin ture reflects the enthusiasm and gener- Patrick Byrne lived during a golden age osity of the faithful in an extraordinary of growth for Catholicism in Ireland and first ecclesiastical commission for Saint age of church-building on the Emerald designed eighteen large churches. author ineffable bounty. Stroka received his Master grew rapidly in the second half of the Lysicrates. whether it will not be Isle as a source of classical an additional joy to look down from innovation. ciples of Pointed or Christian Architecture Patrick Byrne studied at the Dublin was published in 1841. tower at Saint Paul’s in Dublin is evoc- W ing campaigns.”2 Brendan Grimes unearths one of The book by Grimes tells the story of Ireland’s most accomplished church a talented architect and the wider nar- architects and his built work in this new rative of an optimistic age of the Irish book published by the Irish Academic Church. plans of sixteen of Byrne’s churches. yet de- Gandon (architect of the Customs signed churches in both classical and House and Four Courts) and Henry Gothic forms. Lady of Refuge was a Greek cross plan $65. Meagher was a generous priest-patron chitect. Rev. the ornamented flowed toward new church build. sioners of the City of Dublin as an ar. the book’s appendi- By the end of the eighteenth century. 2009. from 40 percent of Catholics and barrel-vaulted nave at Saint Au.com Aaron Baker. iconographic tradition of Ireland into 12 Edward McParland. of great classical churches and monu. when in 1835 he received his with an acute enthusiasm for a more The interior of Our Lady of Refuge 30 Sacred Architecture Issue 20 2011 . The faithful also began to expect of Rome. Dublin. comparative floor church was permitted a more public next twenty-six years. ISBN 978-0716530732.B o o k R e v i e w T his P aradise R estored Majestic Shrines and Graceful Sanctuaries: Roman architecture. Byrne agreed Society’s School of Architectural with Pugin on the importance of the Drawing and was educated by two tower as a beacon to the faithful and prominent Neo-Classicists. believed that beautiful archi- tecture can bring heaven to earth when A rchitectural historians might he wrote to his parishioners: “Think. The beauty of Byrne’s architec- Press. at Rathgar our churches be so constructed. and St. For example. Isle. Byrne ces include a list of the eighteen princi- Catholic civil rights in Ireland were became the pre-eminent architect of pal churches designed by Byrne. Paul Church. Public Works of Architecture. 223 Grimes 114 calling forth the sentiment: “Let all his churches. Dublin: the time. Dublin. Reviewed by Thomas D. By Brendan Grimes. the new church of Our illustrations. For example. he provided three niches no Catholic may pass them without above the main altar for the patron an act of reverence. tural library which were sold at auction Ireland’s economy began to surge ments of Antiquity and the Renais. Stroka Meagher. through God’s Photo: www. easily overlook the Emerald dearest friends.archiseek. that in Dublin. He was the Reverend William Meagher of Our working for the Wide Street Commis. Rathmines. Byrne worked for Baker One of the greatest stories about and Francis Johnston before begin. After this successful design. Additionally. Patrick Byrne is his collaboration with ning his own architecture firm.com and mass emigration. Columba. in opposition to The Church Architecture of Patrick Byrne the “mania” for Gothic architecture of 1783-1864. without a look of admiration. presence by Protestant legislators. 101 teen years old. Instead. in Arran Quay. along almost fully restored and the Roman Catholic churches in Ireland for the with their location. Byrne’s designs were in imitation and a list of titles from Byrne’s architec- After the Potato Famine of 1846. Patrick. The patron. and no Protestant saints of Ireland: St.archiseek. L I T E R AT U R E ✧ ART ✧ THEOLOGY ✧ MUSIC ✧ H I S T O RY ✧ ARCHITECTURE www. Articles should demonstrate a clear exploration of themes related to the intersection of these subjects and Catholic thought and culture. architecture and music. photography.stthomas. LOGOS A Journal of Catholic Thought and Culture Call for Papers Logos seeks a readership that extends beyond the academy and is especially interested in receiving submissions in art.edu/cathstudies/logos Sacred Architecture Issue 20 2011 31 . He considers such questions as how we David W. This book is the first to integrate his- 2010. First published 1819. Camille argues that these gar- goyles symbolize an imagined past. and the letterpress provided W practical suggestions for those contem- plating building. Photo: Designs for Churches and Chapels Catholic University of America Press. These range W architectural facsimiles. and what it means for most detailed treatment of the rock- religion to be in but not of the world. CT: Yale terpretations of gargoyles by everyone University Press. and in- stalled. 2009. Pocock. ing the ideas that God is to be found in The 44 model designs were enthusi. by tory. Reading. sculpted by Victor Pyanet. ceptional continuity of the country’s Ltd. by the universe. formists.B o o k R e v i e w F rom the P ublishing H ouses A Selection of Recent Books The Turn to Transcendence: The Role of the fourth century. $65. Washington. It is probably from an appreciation of certain forms the most important Georgian pattern of contemporary art and music specifi- book not previously reprinted and is cally concerned with transcendence. illuminating the ex- W. and art history $49. 404 pp. ISBN 9780813217406. It is the only book produced poses a contemporary way of express- on this subject before 1836. making Ethiopia the Religion in the Twenty-First Century. He pro- Waterloo. The book contains black and white illustrations of the carved The kings of Aksum formally became gargoyles themselves but little of the Christian during the second quarter of rest of Notre Dame. New Haven. by David W. 2009. to of fundamental importance in under.95 evidence to provide a comprehensive account of Ethiopian Christian civiliza- Olsen demonstrates that religion tion and its churches—both built and can and should play a role in restoring rock-hewn—from the Aksumite period a cultural openness to transcendence. tage Site ever published.95 in the universe. It also had enormous influence in North America where countless build- ings can be traced back to Pocock’s manual—a compelling chapter in the The Gargoyles of Notre-Dame: Medieval- story of transatlantic architectural his. $49. all things and that all is to be done for astically copied. 2010. 439 pp.F. the glory of God. what role lit. 230 pp. eth century imagination. ISBN from Winslow Homer to the Walt Dis- 9780300141566. Michael Camille. 72 pp. and explores their place in the twenti- Fourteenth Centuries.00 Michael Camille recounts and re- interprets Eugene Viollet-le-Duc’s res- toration of Notre Dame from 1843-64. Chicago. He offers the ISBN 9781904965299. IL: The Uni- W versity of Chicago Press.. Olsen. when the gargoyles were designed. hewn churches at Lalibela World Heri- This is a faithful reproduction of Olsen examines proposals for re. especially by Noncon. Ancient Churches of Ethiopia: Fourth. torical.F. DC: The menia) to officially adopt the new faith. He covers in- Phillipson. Pocock’s book of 1819 and is a covering an adequate sense of tran- major landmark in the publication of scendence for the future. UK: Spire Books take in the public square. $79. ISBN 9780226092454.00 ney Company. what form religion should Ethiopian society. discussion of the forms of Christian life standing the dynamic story of church and worship most likely to prosper in and chapel design in the period after and shape the modern world. urgy plays in orienting us toward God Christian civilization. to the thirteenth century. 32 Sacred Architecture Issue 20 2011 . W. by second country in the world (after Ar- Glenn W. ism and the Monsters of Modernity. Phillipson situates the should understand God’s presence in churches within the development of Designs for Churches and Chapels. archaeological. ISBN B u i l d i n g a included.whelming and sacred.com. Franz Mayer of Munich and F. marriage sick. parish life. and de. 1727-1930.00 The colonnaded porch on the second story of the Apostolic Palace is one of Raphael’s last and greatest achieve- Splendors of Faith: New Orleans Catho. St. sermons. James E. confirmation. He provides ideas for in- Christian religious culture. $23. rituals and experiences that gave C o l l e g e v i l l e . The decoration of its thirteen lic Churches. jaekel@mayer- lection illustrates the religious cycles. The lists of windows and mosaics by The author. Zettler yond the well-worn tourist paths. Stained glass Miri Rubin. Sacred Architecture Issue 20 2011 33 . diaries. each contain Nolan. Healy.) Historic List of earliest of the thirteen. and handbooks for the laity and clergy.X. The task of building a new worship The texts explore such life-cycle events space for a community is both over- as birth. Franz Mayer of Munich and affiliated mentary about each edifice. 134 pp.X. mosaics. ISBN 9780789210043. 346 pp.org/new_church. The book gives students and ing committee to build a new church. Using to themes of work. by Charles E.his experience of working with a steer- votions. and some of the names of the 9780691090580. 2009. New York: Abbeville Press Publishers. offers com. hagiography. 76 most recent. trompe-l’oeil fes- toons of fruit and flowers. It contains two hundred il- the historic churches of New Orleans. (
[email protected] turgical books.takes a daunting task and makes it ativity and multiplicity of medieval manageable. regions. GmbH. $125. Princeton. Additional re- Comprising forty-two selections for Pastors and search work can be offered through ar- from primary source materials. by W ganized by state and city. Trans. Charles Nolan. $65. by chivist Wilfried Jaekel. general readers the necessary back. traces its origin to 1727. chronicles. mostly in full color. NJ: Princeton windows supplied before 1888 are not University Press. statuary. The Loggia of Raphael: A Vatican Art W Treasure. The American churches in ings.com) was built in 1930 but modeled after its mid-nineteenth century predecessor. ISBN genres. 1847 & 1870 resp. Zettler have gation. ISBN The gallery is also decorated with 9780807136829. The texts also change that presents the opportunity document religious practices related for enrichment and catechesis. between 1517-19. Stained Glass Windows and Mosaics in thedral. Baton Rouge. The prac- tical appendices are available online only. including 9780814632697. 2010. printed by Mayer’sche Hofkunstanstalt stained glass. University Press. 2010. and frescoed This book showcases thirteen of grotesques.MN: Liturgi- W viduals and communities.95 New Church: A churches may have changed or they Process Manual may no longer exist. It is a time of ness. of-munich.Father James Healy in this volume ground for an appreciation of the cre. its congre. pp. LA: Louisiana State from the Creation to the Last Supper.litpress. Photographs by Frank J. 352 pp. li. the col. by Nicole Dacos. and the rich variety of art forms been assembled here in this booklet assembled over the years: architecture. B o o k R e v i e w revealing scenic treasures that lie be. The (est. Louis Ca. lustrations. and more. This volume cal Press. Immaculate Conception. vaults. and styles.$18. which the windows are located are or- Medieval Christianity in Practice. The Cathedrals and Churches USA. Methe. and are downloadable free at www. death.00 stucco bas-reliefs. ments. and burial. stained glass studio F. paint.Lay Leaders. four frescoes of scenes from the Bible. 2009 assembles sources reflecting different 138 pp. by Josephine Bacon. prayer books. 2008. meaning to medieval Christian indi. volving the parish community in deci- sion making and for ensuring that the W process of building a new church is a prayerful and sacred time. their accommodation of the Christian The book is devoted to aspects of the message. Potsdam: h. cartography. corpus of visual images never photo- garding the conversion program and graphed and published previously. by Nurith Kenaan-Kedar. murals and stained glass. 338 pp. tistic endeavors of the Latin Church. Portals and capi- tals. In studies. including religious Latin Church of the Annunciation in sculpture and painting. Fur- ico’s religious structures reveals the thermore. This twenty-five pound Building on recent research that ques. by Eleanor es. In focusing on anomalies present in in. and presents major Framing the Sacred. Jerusa- that built them. She also offers a de. lem: Yad Ben-Zvi Press. 2010. book is the largest and most impressive tions the “cultural” conquest of Meso. altars oriented in the Holy Land have received little toward indigenous sacred landmarks. $65. Tradition and Innovation in 19th. innovative ar. European authorities failed to rec. Norman. native peoples se. as well as books and liturgical accountrements such as chal- Framing the Sacred: The Indian Churches ices and patens. communities during this period. choirs and confessionals.f. ISBN 9789652173171.00 and interaction of these various ele- ments from the early third century to Christian churches erected in Mexico the present day—from the Early Chris- during the early colonial era represent. ISBN Mexican peoples. Nazareth attempt to decipher this art chitectural detail. nial Mexican churches also reflected the 20th. it also offers an extensive indigenous people’s own decisions re. vestments and paraments are part of Wake. altars and altarpieces. and fosters a more complete under. 168 pp. $125.ullmann of Tandem standing of Christianity’s influence on Verlag GmbH. Framing the Sacred is Ars Sacra: Christian Art and Architecture the most extensive study to date of the of the Western World from the Very Be- indigenous aspects of these churches ginning up Until Today by Rolf Toman. tabernacles and baptismal fonts. 800 pp.00 W This 12 x 18 book is a coffee table book that will break your coffee table. W With more than 200 illustrations. Armenian churches of Jerusalem.00 ognize that the meaning of the edifices they so admired was being challenged: Christian visual art and culture of pre-Columbian iconography integrated the nineteenth and twentieth centuries into Christian imagery. 2010. $65. she and Armenian paintings and the archi- draws on a wide geographical sam. OK: University of this tradition. scholarly attention. This book and carefully recycled masonry. in- cluding 24 in color. the sacred and the profane. Or did they? Cathedral. liturgy and space have interacted for more than 1500 years. monstrances and cross- of Early Colonial Mexico.B o o k R e v i e w devotional poetry. and as an expression of the attitudes and 34 Sacred Architecture Issue 20 2011 . Wake examines artistic creations of diverse Christian how the art and architecture of Mex. tian murals in the catacombs to Gerhard ed the triumph of European conquest Richter’s church windows in Cologne and religious domination. Spirituality. ritual practices that—she argues—as- sist in the interpretation of the imagery. Eleanor Wake shows that colo. The Madonna of the Prickly Pear Cactus: collection of photos of churches and sa- america.century Christian Art in the Holy beliefs of the indigenous communities Land. if at all. Oklahoma Press. tecture and painting cycles of the Latin pling across various forms of Indian Visitation Church in Ain Karim and the W artistic expression. analyzes.and cred elements in recent history. 9783833151408. rood screens and pulpits. visual art of the Greek-Orthodox and As Wake shows. intentions of the diverse Christian com- tailed analysis of documented native munities of the Holy Land. Iconographic investigations and analy- digenous art and their relationship to sis of meanings embodied in the Greek orthodox Christian iconography. ISBN Ars Sacra presents the development 9780806140339. 2010. and lected aspects of the invading culture to the—mainly twentieth century—ar- to secure their own culture’s survival. org. Denis R. A r t i c l e s SACRED ARCHITECTURE “In light of the present Pontiff ’s emphasis on beauty. .Rev. OP Prior. Visit www.sacredarchitecture. Giles R. fax (574) 232-1792 or e-mail
[email protected] or fill out the enclosed card to subscribe or make a donation. Dimock. For more information. and the experience of transcendence. How to Read Churches: A Crash Course in Ecclesiastical Architecture. telephone (574) 232-1783. Dominican House of Studies Donations of $35 or more to Sacred Architecture will receive the new book by Dr. the return to tradition. McNamara. this journal encourages me. feeds me and gives me excellent photographs to contemplate. I enthusiastically support its mission and hope you will as well.” . 00 Newsstand Price ISSN# 1535-9387 spACe foRmAtIon. ConsuLtIng • sACReD ARt • RenovAtIons RestoRAtIons • neW ConstRuCtIon Rohn & Associates Design. stAtuARy. st.O. MA who commissioned the Roman artist gonippo Raggi to decorate the interior of the chapel in 1908.com 1(800) 245-1288 Catholic Liturgical Arts Journal p I t t s b u Rg h • n e W y o R k • s A n A n to n I o • f L o R e n C e • Ro m e • k R A koW . Postage Paid P. muRALs. Presorted Standard Sacred Architecture U. LItuRgICAL fuRnItuRe. AppoIntments.rohndesign. gLAss ARt.com Catholicliturgicalarts. 6 Notre Dame. Artists and Artisans since 1952 www. Brighton. IN 46556 New Hope. John seminary Chapel Restoration It was Cardinal William o’Connell. Box 556 Permit No. CARvIngs. Rohn Design and Associates is now privileged to restore the original colors and forms which have. Inc. mosAICs.com • rolfrohn@rohndesign. blogspot. through time and previous restorations.S. sACReD ARt. has served as Liturgical Designers. lost much of their original brilliance and detail. KY $6.