Acoustics–probably the very first physical concern for a church.
§ 221 § Silence is the ground of all prayer. From contemplative
silence emerge the sung and spoken prayer of the entire assembly
and the prayers and proclamations of the various ministers.
Liturgical celebrations call for the clear transmission of the
sung and spoken responses of the liturgical assembly, as well as
of the words of the individual ministers such as the priest
celebrant, the deacon, the readers, and the cantor and leader of
song. In addition, the space should provide an environment for
instrumental music that supports the assembly’s song and
worship. Note that the “transmission” of the song and speech of
the assembly is given first priority. People need the
reinforcement of their sisters and brothers at worship that
inspires their own opening up to God. Start with the acoustical
properties of the building’s interior: § 222 § The first
consideration in providing quality sound transmission is the
acoustic design of the building. The