James Lenahan from Notre-Dame University has won the contest for the project of the area where the Papal Mass will be celebrated
James Lenahan, a recent graduate from the University of Notre Dame School of Architecture, is the winner of a Papal Sanctuary Design Contest, a competition that challenged college architecture students across the country to design the sanctuary area and furniture for the Papal Mass, which will conclude the World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia, on Sunday, 27 September.
Lenahan‘s project incorporates triangular elements to bring to mind the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph. "Every sanctuary design we received reflected beauty and creativity―said Auxiliary Bishop John J. McIntyre of Philadelphia―, but it was James Lenahan‘s classical design that caught our attention." The winner said: "It is truly an honor to have the opportunity to provide inspiration for the sanctuary that His Holiness will stand upon to deliver Mass. Through my design, I hope to evoke solidarity and create an atmosphere for community prayer and worship."