Re-Pitching the Tent: Re-Ordering the Church Building for Worship and Mission - Tapa blanda

No issue in church life is more sensitive than the nature and character of the sacred space in which the Christian community meets to ?address one another in psalms and spiritual song, singing and making melody to the Lord? (Eph 5:19). In Re-pitching the Tent, Richard Giles offers a hands-on practical guide to the entire process of reordering and furnishing churches. Drawing on the experiences of congregations in widely differing cultures in Britain, North America, and Europe, Giles inspires creative and imaginative designs. He takes readers from the initial idea to the final completion by reflecting on questions every faith community needs to ask: Where do we come from? Who are we? Where do we go from here? In Part One: Where Do We Come From? Giles provides essential preparation for the task of re-ordering Church buildings by discussing historical and biblical background. He examines the roots of worship, the need for a building for worship, and re-ordering as a priority in a missionary Church. In Part Two: Who Are We? Giles focuses on the principles involved in re-ordering. He offers an in-depth understanding of the elements involved, such as proclaiming good news, Christian nurture, movement, and sacrifice. In Part Three: Where Do We Go From Here? Giles provides a detailed guide for all aspects of the liturgical space. He discusses presenting the building, entering the building, the gathering place, and the place of liturgical assembly. These sections provide an educational framework suitable for use as three ?terms? of study by a Christian community that wishes to undertake a long and careful reappraisal, before drawing up a scheme to alter and improve its building. For parishes that do not have the time for such a long process, Giles includes a six-week version as a final appendix. Re-pitching the Tent enables readers to approach reordering worship space in a spirit of humility, of open enquiry, and of adventure. It is eminently knowledgeable, profoundly theological, and lavishly illustrated with many color and black-and-white photographs that will aid and inspire readers.?No matter if Sunday morning finds you in an urban cathedral or a rural chapel, this book will enhance your appreciation for the power of that holy space.? The Catholic Journalist?Richard Giles has done the Church a great service.? Ministry