Question
Even though our small church is quite beautiful, it's interior design is very "un-traditional" -- no pews, no kneelers, and 2 separate chapels [one for the Blessed Sacrament and another for Reconciliation]. Why are there 2 separate chapels instead of having these areas included in the body of the church?
-- Wondering in West Valley
Answer
Two documents guide the way churches are built and renovated in the world and in this country: from Rome [1969] the General Instructions of the Roman Missal and from the United States Bishops [1978] Environment & Art in Catholic Worship. Both of these documents stress the importance of symbols and placement of these symbols for worship, private prayer, other liturgical rites, and contemplation.
The church wants to emphasize the importance of the Sacrament of Penance and the Blessed Sacrament by creating special spaces to highlight their place and prominence. Just as we don't in our homes do every thing in one room or space, the church tries to build spaces that allow for the community to spend time in different experiences and places. By having a Chapel of Reconciliation, one is able to experience this sacrament in a special sacred space. Likewise, a Blessed Sacrament chapel allows us to enter into the contemplative element of the mystery of the Eucharist. Having a chapel in the nave or main area of the church would certainly give less importance to the celebration that the assembly is part of when it does its rites.