St MacNissi's Church Randalstown

Rooney & McConville were appointed as architects and liturgical designers for a new replacement church for 800. The basalt stone walls have a natural roughly cut texture, adding character, solidity, timelessness and beauty. The wide south elevation (shown here) faces the town in an architectural embrace of welcome. White aluminium windows within smooth white stone surrounds contrast with the dark stone walls. A pitched slate roof continues the theme of natural materials. A modern steel cross surmounts the gable over the sanctuary opposite a traditional stone cross, salvaged from the building that was replaced, on the opposite end of the roof. This juxtaposition symbolizes the pilgrim journey of the worshipping community from old to new, from the profane to the secular. A curved apse containing a peaceful adoration chapel where people can pray and find solace, breaks the rectilinear shape of the main walls.

As you enter the worship space you are confronted by a magnificent baptismal font designed by Ken Thompson. Positioned in the baptistery situated at the beginning of the central axis of the interior, the font serves as a focal point. As the faithful approach, they are confronted by its commanding presence, serving as a reminder of Christian commitment. It symbolizes the responsibility to bear witness to the Gospel and serves as a powerful memento of entry into the Christian community through baptism. The font's placement marks the beginning of a spiritual journey, with the central axis leading them towards the altar, where they will further encounter the divine presence.

Above the altar, a magnificent stainless steel cross hangs, a testament to the artistry of Michael Biggs. Standing three meters tall and stretching two meters wide, this cross is a striking presence in the church's interior. Encasing the corpus of Christ in a resurrection pose, the steel frame embodies both strength and grace. The corpus captures perfectly the transition from death to life. Its strategic placement ensures visibility from all parts of the interior, capturing the attention of worshippers. Acting as a visual anchor, the cross directs their gaze to the sacred focal point—the altar. As eyes are drawn upward, the stainless steel cross serves as a powerful symbol, reminding all of Christ's ultimate sacrifice and His victory over death, offering solace and inspiration to those who seek it.