A news item about a legislated right to work from home prompted me to consider the theme and papers presented at a recent congress in Paris, specifically their application to our everyday lives and work.

The congress’ theme was about liturgical space and worship.

The starting point for our exploration of space and its effects must be the beauty of our natural surroundings—the created spaces given to us by our Maker in all their forms: valleys, hills, sky, sea, and much more.

However, much of our lives are spent inside walls, so let’s consider how we reflect the values of peace and beauty of nature in an indoor situation.

Liturgical agreement

There is wide agreement among liturgists and liturgical architects that we are shaped by space. In the case of liturgical space—whether for prayer or worship—many elements contribute to this sacred place.

It is more than a physical space because it is in the realm where the divine and human intersect. If it has a reverent atmosphere, is quiet, hopefully well lit, and very often beautiful—as those European basilicas are—an atmosphere will be created that fundamentally contributes to the sacred purpose of the gathering.

Full participation

Whether even with those qualities many sacred liturgical spaces contribute adequately to the “full, conscious and active participation” that the Second Vatican Council called for is quite debatable.

The reservation is about the extent to which those huge spaces contribute effectively to participation in the liturgy and assist the essential dynamic of building unity and communal worship. But that is a discussion for another day.

If we are shaped by space, then the circumstances of our workplace—whether in a building, an outside situation, or working from home—are critical elements to be considered for the “shape” of the work person, whether employee or self-employed, and for best delivery of the work product, quite apart from occupational health and safety requirements.

Home workspace

Space and associated infrastructure must take on a whole new dimension for those working from home—for what is performed is not ordinary living but paid work and the deliverables associated with it.

The convenience, atmosphere, light, furniture and ergonomics, working comfort, noise, warmth and coolness, electronic connections, supply of necessary disposables, and any other thing that will contribute to output will be relevant.

If governments are to legislate a right to work from home, will they also regulate items related to work space?

Likewise, will employers consider space issues both in their own interests and those of the employee?

In at least one Australian State, it seems we are moving from a post-COVID temporary workplace solution to a more permanent right to work from home situation.

Do we need to address the regulations governing the shape of the workspace in the home environment and the manner in which needs are mandated?

• Justin Stanwix is an active permanent deacon in the Diocese of Wollongong, Australia. After 40 years in commercial law practice he was ordained deacon. He has a love for liturgy and especially for its artful practise dating from Vatican II deliberations. He presents and writes on current Church topics including for some years in La Croix International.