Although our world is full of knowledge and technology beyond imagining, modernity does still leave a few things to be desired. Modern architecture in particular tends to leave a church shaped hole in the hearts of many Catholics. Thankfully, the popularity of theater seating or church in the round seems to be on the decline but those erected during the 70s revocation are often still in use. 

Throughout history Catholic churches were traditionally built in the shape of a cross. There was one longer arm, the nave, where the assembly would sit and two shorter wings nearer to the head of the cross called the transepts (North and South respectively) which could offer additional seating or house chapels. The altar was always reserved for the head of the cross. This layout was and still is incredibly significant in Catholic teaching. The larger body of the church where laity sat has sometimes been called an arc, calling to mind the story of Noah and the flood. However, more importantly, it is a reminder of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross. That Christ died in such a brutal way for the repentance of our sins is the most central teaching of the Catholic Church. Structures built to house His most precious body and sacred blood are meant to reflect this teaching. 

Likewise, minimalist art and architecture, while certainly cost effective, have only in recent decades found home in Catholic churches. Before this, Catholic churches were intended to point to the glory of God in Heaven. These were truly houses of God, complete with intricate tapestries, ornate mosaics, vaulted ceilings and elaborate stone and wood work. Many of them were built around huge pipe organs which were the preferred instrument for raising hymns to God as they were most akin to the sound of dozens of heavenly voices singing in tandem, like a choir of angels. Altars were constructed of glistening gold and hewn marble to be radiant markers of the presence of the real body and blood of Christ. These sanctuaries were meant to give us a small glimpse into the beauty of Heaven. 

Additionally, the radiance and intentional structure of Catholic churches encouraged proper practice among parishioners. The one long aisle down the center of the nave traditionally meant that everyone was able to receive communion from the priest rather than an extraordinary minister. This also usually occured from a kneeling position as communion rails were similarly common. A stage or music pit for the choir and accompaniment was totally unnecessary as most churches were constructed with a choir loft at the back of the church from which heavenly hymns would rain down on the assembly rather than become the main event, distracting from the sacrifice of the mass. Parishioners were all seated in the same direction, oriented toward Christ, again minimizing the distraction of awkward eye contact with other lay people on the opposite side of the church.

In such an environment there was no mistaking the holy mass for a performance. So many people, even the most devout Catholics, are prone to critique a particular mass whether due to an over long homily or an out of key cantor. Mass has so frequently become the Sunday morning show and we’ve forgotten why we’re actually there.