vary due to the transience of military personnel and to the variety of worship
patterns; therefore provision for these must be flexible.
g.
Platform. For the sake of visibility, it is customary that some
elements of liturgical activity are elevated. Platforms need not be permanent
they can be built-up from movable modular elements and thus maintain the
flexibility desired in the facilities. Such modules must not be, nor appear to
be, flimsy or trivial, but should be such that they can be moved by one
person. 24 by 48 by 6 inches (600 by 1200 by 150 mm) is an acceptable size and
55 pounds (25 kg) a reasonable maximum weight. See Facility Plate 15, page
37.06-69.
The size of the elevated surfaces should be ouch that the movement
required of worship leaders can be done graciously. The appropriate height of
the platform will vary according to sight lines. In general, one 6-inch (150
mm) step will be sufficient for up to six rows of distance, two steps for up
to ten rows, and three steps for up to thirteen rows.
The first step of a platform Is used in some liturgies as a kneeling
surface for the reception of the eucharist. A temporary rail and a kneeling
cushion may then be attached along the edges of the platform. In naval
practice, the railing is not necessarily present. If it is to be supplied, it
should be about 28 inches (700 mm) high and should be attached firmly about 10
inches (250 m
back from the platform edge. This 10 inches (250 m is the
location for the cushion, which should be about 3 inches (75 m thick and
filled with dense padding. The rail should be designed in such a way as to
suggest a series of prayer desks rather than a fence. If the platform rises
more than one step, the second step should be 36 inches (900 m back from the
first to provide passage for those distributing the eucharistic elements.
h. Liturgical Furniture for Christian Usage. Certain basic items of
furniture are required and their sizes and relationships are important in the
functional and aesthetic organization of the space. Because they carry symbolic
as well as functional burden they must be carefully designed. The designer
must not tolerate any artificial materials or veneers; materials, proportions
and details should be of superior quality and fabrication flawless. Various
denominations will have various patterns of use. The following elements must
be accommodated in the planning process, and their shapes considered in the
spacial organization.
(1) Altar/table. The altar/table is a table, not a casket
or buffet. It may be perceived as a "dining table" for the "family",
about which the "family" gathers for the ritual celebratory meal. It
stands free in space, accessible not only to the leader of worship but
to all the assembly. Because it is a table and not a counter,
Previous Page
