OVERVIEW
As we have redefined our worship spaces this past year, the implications of “sacred space” have become more important than ever before. For many worshipers, “going to church” no longer involves chancels or stained glass. Instead, computers and couches have transformed into pulpits and pews. We have been forced to recreate our sacred space in unexpected places. But what makes a space sacred? In our time together we will rediscover our own worship spaces, wherever they may be, by exploring the practical, mystical, and theological decisions that have shaped Christian worship spaces throughout the years. From temples to tables and cathedrals to meeting houses, we will discover how our worship spaces impact our practices even today, and we will learn how to use those spaces to foster our worship.
INSTRUCTOR
Derek Davenport, director of the Miller Summer Youth Institute at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary was part of the first class of SYI scholars in 1997. He then served as a part of the re-visioning team in 1999, an intern in 2000, and a counselor (as a PTS student) in 2003, 2004, and 2005. Before returning to PTS, Derek served as the associate pastor of Grace Covenant Presbyterian Church in Orlando, Fla. Derek loves storytelling, preaching, watching movies, and currently is studying church symbolism in his spare time. He is also a graduate of Grove City College and Pittsburgh Theological Seminary.