How might our parish churches look like in 2050? #3

 

What is the first thing that catches your eye when you enter a Roman Catholic church? For many, it is the altar—and often the tabernacle. In older churches these were usually aligned on the same visual axis, the altar built into a retable that housed the tabernacle. Since the late 1960s, however, altars have been brought forward so the priest can stand behind them facing the people. In some churches the tabernacle was also moved, either to a side altar or to another clearly visible and dignified location. Where this happened, the altar naturally became the dominant feature on entering the church.

Churches built in the last fifty years, especially in expanding suburbs, often adopted circular or semi‑circular designs. These layouts emphasised visibility, participation, and a sense of gathering around the altar—almost like a theatre in the round—while allowing people to see one another more easily.

What, then, is the optimal layout for churches today, given the realities facing most parishes and dioceses? Much depends on local circumstances and the physical constraints of the building. A small nineteenth‑century rural chapel offers far less freedom than a modern suburban church.

In my view, the altar should remain the primary focal point when entering the church. At the same time, the tabernacle—housing the Blessed Sacrament—should be placed in a prominent, prayerful location where the faithful can adore and reflect outside of Mass. Some may worry that this separates the Real Presence from the heart of the church, but it can in fact protect a dedicated space for quiet prayer while allowing the community to focus fully on the celebration of the Eucharist during Mass. It can also offer people privacy and stillness between liturgies.

Whatever the arrangement, the overall layout should evoke awe, reverence, community, and participation, while respecting local custom and sensitivity. Achieving this requires genuine collaboration between bishop, clergy, and laity—and that, in essence, is what synodality looks like in practice.