The first phase of work for this expanding suburban parish included a new 1,000 seat sanctuary addition, a circular outdoor plaza/gathering space, a large narthex, reservation chapel, space for the Youth Ministry program, a new nursery, flexible educational space, and a religious education resources center. Parishioners are greeted by a ‘blessing rock’ that initiates a blue tile pathway leading to a full immersion baptismal font located in the middle of the worship space. Parishioners had significant input on the finishes and liturgical furnishings during the planning process. Distinct sight lines draw the eye to the altar and the superb acoustics in the sanctuary have gained the space recognition as a venue for regional musicians. The separate Chapel of Reservation holds the Blessed Sacrament and provides opportunity for adoration and personal prayer.

Jury Comments: By carefully siting the addition, they transformed the site and created an outdoor place for gathering. The new church both relates to and elevates the existing building. The formal clarity is visible in the interior and the simple brick walls add to the emphasis of the sanctuary and the diffused daylight that defines it. We appreciated the strategy to bring so much soft light into the sanctuary.