Arena-style seating Catholic Church Again QUESTION from rfoster January 26, 1999 I am sorry to ask you this question again. I really wanted to know if arena-style building Catholic Church is approved by Rome. Nearby town is planning on arena-style Catholic Church in the very near future. ANSWER by Mr. John Miskell on January 28, 1999
Dear rfoster, Yes, arena style buildings are allowed. My parish (St. Catherine of Siena, Reading, PA) is built with arena style seating. It's spacious, very beautiful and very Catholic in atmosphere, except for the transparent glass tabernacle, which is forbidden by liturgical law. The pastor told me he was assured by the vendor that it was allowed, but now that he knows it isn't he will change it -- but -- (why is ther always a but?) it's not high on his list of priorities. That conversation took place almost two years ago. I wonder what could be more important than the tabernacle? Keep up the good work. In Christ, John Miskell Back to Index Page