Over the past 50 years, Antioch, Ill., has transformed from a sleepy resort town to a suburb of Chicago. To stay ahead of the growth curve, Faith in Antioch built a new facility in 2005.

“The old chancel communicated 1970s,” says Aaron Christie, pastor at Faith since 1997.

In addition to an updated style, the congregation needed a space that would complement their music. “After two separate additions to the old sanctuary, we were worshiping in an acoustical nightmare,” says Christie. “There was one area of the old church that the members affectionately called the ‘penalty box.’ ”

After hiring an acoustical consultant to help design the new sanctuary, the congregation now worships in a space with an updated design that enhances music and provides plenty of room for members and guests.

“What are the results? Worship now rings!” says Christie. “The new chancel communicates Christ’s crucifixion and resurrection . . . Attendance is up significantly since our move . . . And God’s people now participate in worship at a level that was unattainable in the old church.”

Pastor Christie shares more about church architecture and how it shapes the people who use it in his article “What are the bricks telling you?” Read more about the building project at Faith and other WELS congregations in the “Worship the Lord” newsletter, online at archive.wels.net/jump/worshipthelord.