The document discusses the importance of gathering spaces in churches and how they can foster a sense of community. It notes that gathering spaces should provide a welcoming transition into worship, invite visitors, and allow people to experience God's welcome through interaction. The document examines features like entrances, seating areas, and dividers that can make gathering spaces feel comfortable and help form congregations as the body of Christ.

1. Our Gathering Spaces Presentation at Christ Church February 27-28, 2010 Gale Francione, Consultant for Liturgical Space

2. “ How often would I have gathered your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings...” Luke 13:34 Jesus was all about gathering people – especially those who didn’t normally mingle.

3. We gather everywhere

4. We gather with family and friends

5. Sometimes we act as the host: “Come on in, let me take your coat, would you like some coffee?”

6. Sometimes we are the guest, enjoying the conversation and the food. Maybe even helping clean up afterwards.

7. And sometimes, we are a stranger, even in a room full of people.

9. In the House for the People of God... everyone is an invited guest

10. In the House of the People of God Everyone acts as the host – how else can we experience God’s welcome except though the touch of one another?

13. Santo Nino Chapel, New Mexico Trinity Church, West Yorkshire All churches, grand and humble, gather Sunday after Sunday

14. The primary entrance: clearly visible inviting to visitors and strangers the first impression of your community.” - The Church for Common Prayer

15. in proportion to the worship space identify and reach other parts of the building easily. - The Church for Common Prayer A gathering area

16. We mark entrances

17. This door invites entry. What’s on the other side? (Especially when it is etched with the words “Seek” “Knock” “Ask”)

18. Some doorways offer a tactile experience that says “no ordinary entrance”

19. Doorways should lead to a gracious space where people feel comfortable. Grandma can be dropped off and wait in a soft chair, maybe chat with a friend.

20. Gathering spaces should not feel office-like or institutional. Does this space help me transition into a sacred activity when I walk through them?”

21. A gathering space: warm, light, comfortable (Soon to be a baptismal font on the tile in the center)

22. Gathering spaces should include the activities of a busy parish But clutter is not necessary

23. This parish’s solution was a six-sided kiosk (also hiding a supporting pillar)

24. This parish keeps noise (from visiting friends to fussy babies) from disrupting the service with sliding glass doors

25. Where do we gather? What happens in these places? How do they help us become the Body of Christ? What would enhance our gathering spaces? Christ Episcopal: