divine building

Apr 5, 2017

We live in an age where everyone can be considered to be an expert in everything, and it is politically insensitive (at least) even to suggest that someone who has studied a great deal in a particular area might have more knowledge in the field than someone who has a passing interest.

This is noticeable in parish life when it comes to building (or restoring) a parish church. Everyone becomes an expert with opinions based on subjective experience alone, with little interest in the rich Tradition of Catholic church building.

I have learnt much in this field from an inspiring teacher, Denis McNamara. Denis is an Architectural Theologian who is based at the University of St. Mary of the Lake in Mundelein in Chicago.  He visited the Catholic diocese of Christchurch at the invitation of Bishop Barry Jones in August 2014 offering good formation as our parishes began the process of building and restoring churches damaged in the earthquakes.

Here is part one of his ten part Youtube series.

Below: Denis McNamara interviewed by Christchurch radio programme Sounds Catholic on his visit to Christchurch in August 2014:

0 Comments

Submit a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Latest Posts

to be wise

to be wise

O God, You were with me, but alas, I was not with you

just remember

just remember

more than 20% of the 180 words in the opening lines speak directly of God

Leo @ Meeting

Leo @ Meeting

engaging my desire for real food and a work-out for every bit of my intelligence

a new presence

a new presence

when you stay with Jesus, your interests do not narrow down. They multiply!

Assumption

Assumption

. I am sure that most of the thousands of homilies and talks focussing on the Assumption will recall only on Mary’s yes to God, the Annunciation.  These homilies may be very good. But they miss the point of Mary assumed body and soul into heaven. So, why do we...