The Concept of Building a Church - Essay Example

According to Dulle’s doctrine, there are five main reflections that should be a part of the church and institution, specifically which link to the models that imitate the concept of God.  Responding to the needs of the poor while combining these ecclesiological concepts is one that helps to redefine the way in which architectural structures and activities are used within the church. 

The first model for the church is based on building an institution for the community.  The institution of God is the main reflection in which Dulle points out, which specifies that the visible structures should reflect the power and the hierarchy of the church.  When looking at this from the needs of the poor, it can be seen that the church as an institution can combine with the structure and power that has the ability to take in the poor and assist those in need.  The architecture and the way in which the church is perceived through institutional measures should directly reflect being a refuge to the poor and those who are in need of love.  Furthermore, the institution of the church should reflect activities and different concepts that assist the poor under the powers and the organization of the church. 

The second viewpoint that is used is the mystical communion that is a part of the church.  The concept of mystical communion is one that is based on the building of community, combined with the needs of the spirit.  The ability to combine the poor with this is based on the individual and community belief that there is a need to assist the poor.  The belief has to further into individual’s belief that the church should be a place for assistance and refuge for the poor, specifically so they can receive assistance and spiritual guidance.  If this foundation is built among the community then it will reflect in the way in which individuals respond in the church. 

Another aspect to consider with the different church structures is through the sacrament.  This is a sign that shows the concept of God and the church and helps to strengthen the church and what it stands for.  In this instance, the concept of the symbol is one that can show the same ideology of power that can help the poor as well as a refuge through the religious symbols that are used through the church.  The cross, the idol of Jesus and other concepts can be incorporated into the church.  Combining this with symbols or pictures of Jesus helping the needy is also used.  The fourth concept can combine this with the idea of the church as the herald.  The message of the gospel is the main component of this.  Using symbols, words and different looks in the church, specifically through symbols and the way in which the gospel is looked into can have a focus on helping the poor and carrying the theme of God’s love in the church. 

The last concept as noted by Dulles is the church as the servant. 

The gospel has specific sayings that relate to helping those in need while incorporating basic issues that are associated with the church.  By integrating this into the other needs of both the church and of those that are in need as one who is poor and unloved, the church will be able to serve the community while integrating different concepts within the ministry and toward the poor.