Order code: BLSL | 978-1-61671-841-1 | Paperback | 6 x 9 | 96 pages | Language: English | Copyright Year: 2025
This product qualifies for quantity discount pricing.
| Quantity: | Discount |
|---|
Available March 2025.
In November 2000, Built of Living Stones: Art, Architecture, and Worship (BLS) was published from the United States Catholic bishops. This document is designed to guide religious communities, parish teams, and other Catholic institutions in the renovation or building of new churches, chapels, and oratories. The document “reflects [the Church’s] understanding of the liturgy, of the role and importance of church art and architecture, and of the integral roles of the local parish and the diocese that enter into a building or renovation project” (BLS, 9).
This important document also “contains many of the provisions of universal law governing liturgical art and architecture and offers pastoral suggestions . . . [and] guidelines that can serve as the basis for diocesan bishops to issue further guidelines and directives for their dioceses” (BLS, 10). With its theological reflections on art and liturgy and its establishment of liturgical norms, it is an essential document for architects, liturgical consultants and artists, contractors, and other professionals who are responsible for the design and construction of worship spaces.
Published by United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
“Whether you're on the art and environment team, sewing fabric or arranging flowers, or involved in an upcoming church renovation, Built of Living Stones is a must-read. This USCCB document highlights the power of architecture, art, and seasonal decorations in making the sacraments participatory experiences of God’s divine work. It encourages you to reflect on whether our churches are truly ‘worthy of mystery’ or simply filled with Catholic items. Ultimately, this document deepens your understanding of the spirituality of art, clarifies what the Church’s liturgy mandates for its rituals in a world of diverse opinions and personal tastes, and demonstrates how the church’s entire environment—both inside and out—can foster ongoing transformation within the community.”
—John Michael Reyes Liturgical Design Consultant
Daly City, CA
“Built of Living Stones is a timeless guide for parish ministers. Honoring God’s house and holy people, the document thoughtfully explores rich symbolism, cultural integrity, and the sacred purpose of church buildings. Its insights on architecture, art, and liturgy unite faith and function, making it an essential resource for ministers hoping to create meaningful, spiritually resonant experiences for the people they serve.”
—Mary Patricia Storms Pastoral Associate, Our Lady of the Presentation Parish
Lee's Summit, MO
“Since its publication in 2000, the guidelines, theological reflections, and design implications in Built of Living Stones: Art, Architecture, and Worship have served as a critical resource for all those involved in new church building or renovation projects. Such projects have a significant impact on the liturgical life of a faith community and provide an opportunity for renewal of the whole community. This single publication by LTP makes that document more accessible and provides pastoral leaders and liturgical ministers with reliable information and insights for the formative process of education for a parish; as well as being an invaluable resource for liturgical consultants, architects, artists, contractors and parish members who are responsible for making informed decisions for both new and renovated spaces for worship.”
—Rev. J. Philip Horrigan Liturgical author and consultant
Former director of the Art and Architecture Department, Archdiocese of Chicago.
This supplement will be available soon.
