Previous updates have provided a brief insight into the norms for the construction and renovation of Catholic churches in the Knoxville Diocese.  To date, updates have focused upon the setting and exterior façade, the portal doors and the narthex.  All of these elements are designed to clearly identify the structure as a Catholic church.  They are designed to transition the worshiper from the distractions of the outside world into the spaces dedicated to the celebration of the liturgy. This update begins our review of the interior sacred spaces.

The doors from the narthex into the nave are aligned with the sanctuary and the altar. The nave is the Latin word for "ship" (from which we get the word "naval"). This is the place where the congregation sits and is so called because, figuratively, it represents the "ark of salvation." Upon entering the nave (a sacred place), we are used to finding holy water fonts or stoups, as they are sometimes known. Here we bless ourselves with holy water, reminding ourselves of our baptism and our sins. Crossing ourselves with holy water upon entering a church is the long-standing way to cleanse ourselves as we set foot into God's house.

The Diocese directs that the confessionals are to be located in the rear of the nave. The confessionals are a visible reminder that believers come to Christ through the Church’s ministry of forgiveness of sins and that this reconciliation is completed in the sacrament of Eucharist. 

Seating for the congregation should be set up so that the worshipers may easily take the posture required during various parts of the celebration of the mass and have unimpeded access to receive communion.  The arrangement should encourage active participation.  The norms direct that arrangements bearing any semblance to a theater or an arena are to be avoided.  Pews and kneelers contribute to making the nave look like a church; they are a part of our Catholic patrimony.  Although pews may be added later, our present seating meets the requirement of the norms. Furnishing the church with pews will not be included in the construction budget for the church.  We will initially utilize our present seating and continue to change out furniture, décor and other accoutrements as our budget allows.

The faithful and the choir shall have a place that facilitates their active participation. …The Priest Celebrant, the Deacon, and the other ministers have places in the sanctuary. … All these elements…  (even though in separate designated spaces) should (be laid out so as to) bring about a close and coherent unity that is clearly expressive of the unity of the entire holy people. Indeed, the nature and beauty of the place and all its furnishings should foster devotion and express visually the holiness of the mysteries celebrated there. (USCCB, Prayer and Worship, The Mass, Chapter V: The Arrangement and Ornamentation of Churches for the Celebration of the Eucharist)

Our dedicated worship space will be designed to beautifully reflect the St Alphonsus faith community.

Please, include the Feasibility Task Force and our parish in your daily prayers.

Questions may be directed to the Parish Pastoral Council.  Questions or comments can be sent via email at stalppc@gmail.com, to the attention of Charleen McMahan, Chairperson.

The Parish Pastoral Council has established a mailbox in the breezeway.  Forms for your comments and input may be found in the box.  Please, include your name and best contact information in all correspondence.

The prayer composed by Deacon Peter for our parish as we pursue the realization of a dedicated worship space is included below: