Christ and Architecture: Building Presbyterian/Reformed churches

by Donald J. Bruggink

This historically interesting volume addresses the relationship between theology and architecture. In the first section, a preacher and a theologian discuss the issues. In the second half, an architect presents the practical and technical aspects of achieving theological goals. It contains photos of Reformed churches throughout Europe and the US. Also published: When Faith Takes Form: Contemporary Churches of Architectural Integrity in America (1971, photos and descriptions of 12 North American churches).

708 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1965

Reviews

[David Holl · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's a fascinating study of churches - architecture and the thoughts behind design. In ways, it is a lost art, left to the high church. Definitely worth the read if you are at all interested in how churches are, or should be designed.

[Emily Serven · Rating 4 out of 5]

Highly recommended to anyone interested in the subject. I learned a lot and gained appreciation for my local church building and the thought that was put into it. It is amusing to see all of the examples held up as models. They are almost exclusively from mid-20th century Scandinavian buildings and are not a style I find particularly attractive or that I think would be broadly appealing. BUT, it was helpful to see the principles at play and to recognize that the principles do not limit the congregation to the architecture of the Reformation era or any particular architectural style. This is a really unique book and worth consideration by any Reformed congregation undertaking a building project.

[Joshua · Rating 3 out of 5]

Helpful theological perspective, less helpful architectural theory...