Pope Francis' influence on sacred architecture

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The Pope's Imperative How Pope Francis' Influence is Redefining Sacred Architecture

Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, may not have written an encyclical addressed to architects, but his pontificate has left a lasting impact on sacred architecture. His words and actions demonstrated a shift from the Pope as monarch to a pastor, concretized by his decision to reside at the modest Casa Santa Marta. There, he celebrated daily Mass in a common chapel and joined ordinary people for meals in the cafeteria, exemplifying his commitment to humility and simplicity.

The Manila Times interviewed architects Bong Recio and Carlos Arnaiz about the role of spirituality in their architectural practice. Recio, who designed the Church of the Gesu at Ateneo de Manila, seeks spiritual guidance when designing sacred spaces such as places of learning. He recognizes that these environments have a profound impact on shaping future lives, emphasizing the importance of relevant design.

Arnaiz, who designed Sanctuario De La Salle in Biñan and studied philosophy before pursuing architecture, believes that the spaces we build are our reflection of the ideas we have about our world. He grounds his work daily by questioning how self and community relate to the mysteries of the spirit. This philosophical approach is reflected in his design philosophy.

Both architects embody what can be called Pope Francis' architecture of pardon, a key aspect of the extraordinary Year of Mercy he declared in 2016. Many churches around the world were built with the idea of compassion, communicating openness and invitation rather than insulation and exclusion. The Chapel of the Eucharistic Lord at Megamall is a notable example, featuring a designated space for children that encourages inclusion.

Other transformations in church architecture that architects and this writer have observed include

A greater emphasis on the image of Christ, such as the enormous cross at the Chapel of the Sacred Heart in Powerplant.
The presence of water features, symbolizing the fountains of divine mercy, like the holy water fountain at the Church of the Gesu.
More commodious spaces for the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
Improvements to the traditional confession booth style, as seen at the Sto. Niño de Paz Church in Makati commercial center.

Pope Francis' encyclical Laudato Si, on the Earth as Common Home, is set to have a significant impact on construction. According to Recio, For too long, development has had the opposite effect of enriching people's lives. As developers build taller buildings, cities have become more dense, with projects often touted as green developments. Sustainable architecture is increasingly important, but there remains much to be done.

In the weeks leading up to his passing, Pope Francis advanced the cause of sainthood for Antonio Gaudí, the architect of Barcelona's Sagrada Familia. Arnaiz praised Gaudí's innovative use of materials and structures that evoke natural forms, such as tree-like columns and underwater-inspired courtyards. These designs not only reflect a deep understanding of technology and ecology but also pay homage to the natural world.

In honoring Gaudí, Arnaiz has dedicated his practice to finding contemporary translations of this blend of technology and ecology for our 21st century. Pope Francis' legacy is one that redefines sacred architecture, emphasizing God's closeness, clemency, and love for nature.

Overall, Pope Francis has rewritten the grammar of church architecture, conveying a sense of God's presence and commitment to loving the earth and nature.

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

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