I just thought I'd have to jump in on the "architecture" discussion.  The
bottom line is that later reflection has placed "theological" meaning on the
space.  In other words "spirituality follows form."  Gothic churches,
particularly the large cathedrals were the logical development from their
Romanesque predecessors which were based on the early Christian Basilica plan.
The extended choir was a development in monestery chruches that made its way
into parish churches as well, particularly in England it seems, and then into
Episcopal (and some Lutheran) chruch buildings in the U.S.  

A quick look at the floor plans of chruches; from 50's neo-gothic, (which we
really ought to call neo-neo-gothic because it is an interpretation more of
19th century neo-gothic, than of real Gothic architecture) to 19th century
neo-gothic to medieval Gothic, to Romanesque to early Christian Basilicas will
show a direct development in which the floor plans have remained essentially
the same.  The only real change down through the centuries was the addition of
the extended choir, begun in Romanesque churches and developed fully in Gothic
structures.  The major innovations of Gothic architecture was the development
of the pointed arch which allowed wider open spaces and much larger windows.
It should also be noted that Renaissance and Baroque chruches are generally
based on the same basic floor plan as well, differing mainly in architectural
details.

We really owe our church plans to the ancient Romans whose basialicas
(generally used for law courts and other civic activities).  The Early
Christians did not choose Roman temple architecture because 1.) it was
associated with the pagan cult, but more importantly 2.) Roman (and Greek)
temples were not designed for corporate worship.  While often very impressive,
Roman temples did not have huge interior spaces compared to the exterior size
of the building.  They didn't need to.  The basilica, on the other hand, was
designed for gatherings and thus made a good model for early churches.

Sorry....that's probably more than anyone wanted to know.
In Christ,
Rev. Don Reusch. 


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