How might our parish churches might like like in 2050 #5

 

The Roman Catholic Church recognises seven sacraments. Most Christians agree that Baptism – the sacrament of initiation – and the Eucharist – the sacrament of unity – are foundational, and that the other sacraments, sacramentals, and rites flow from them. Every sacrament is an outward sign and a means of inward grace. In Baptism, water and oil form part of the celebration; in the Eucharist, bread and wine – which become the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ – are essential.

It is entirely appropriate, therefore, that the design and layout of churches reflect the centrality of Baptism and the Eucharist. One way to express this is to locate the baptistry – where infants and adults are baptised – at the entrance, creating a clear axis towards the altar at the far end. Beginning at the baptistry, we walk up the central aisle of the nave towards the altar, where Christ is given for us. This movement reminds us that the Christian life is a journey, and that we walk it together as a family and community.

This sense of a line from baptistry to altar can be difficult to achieve in the semi-circular design mentioned in yesterday’s blog. The key point, however, is that the baptistry should be visible and prominent – ideally encountered as you enter the church. Associated with the baptistry is the holy water font at the entrance, which is undoubtedly linked to the waters of Baptism. Each time we make the Sign of the Cross with holy water, we recall our baptism. It marks us as Christ’s own. We belong to him.