The Art & Environment Sub-commission 
of the 
Diocesan Liturgical Commission

The Art & Environment Sub-commission’s objective is to assist the Bishop of the Diocese of Columbus hold up certain criteria for the art & environment of parish worship space which will help form the community’s prayer. The quality of art and the appropriateness of the elements that address our senses enhance the liturgical action.

 The Art & Environment Sub-commission works with the Office of Liturgy in the preparation of various guides and handbooks which explain, promote, and can enhance how our senses can bring us to a greater awareness of the presence of God in our liturgical celebrations. The following guides and handbooks are available or are under development:

What Pastors Should Know about Acoustics
Acoustics for Churches and Chapels
Commissioning, Purchasing, or Accepting Donations of Religious Art for the Worship Space.
Handbook for the Construction or Renovation of the Parish Worship Space.
Handbook for the Parish Art and Environment

Several brief articles or bulletin inserts have been developed (or planned) as a result of this sub-commission’s work with parishes:

The Baptismal Font 
The Tabernacle 
Cry-Room vs Quieting-Space
The Altar 
The Ambo 
The Presider’s Chair 

 The Art & Environment Sub-commission has two standing committees: Art & Environment Consultation Committee and the Organ Committee. These two committees work with parishes who are involved in the modification of their worship space, the building of a new worship space, or the modification or purchase of an organ. The current diocesan policy calls for these committees to be involvement in these parish projects. It is best to consult these committees early in the project, before other outside professionals are contacted and hired.

 The following links will be helpful to parishes which will build or modify their worship space and for those which are thinking about an organ.

USCCB - Built of Living Stones 
Planning Space for Pipe Organs 
Purchasing a Pipe Organ 
The successful funding of a new pipe organ

Send your questions or comments to the Art & Environment Sub-commission email address.