We are blessed to meet some exceptional people in the course of our practice. Kind and considerate, one such acquaintance is Pastor Delbert Mack at The Cathedral of Faith in Beaumont, Texas. From our very first meeting, his passion for the growing congregation and his eagerness to move the project forward were evident.

We quickly proceeded into Programming and Conceptual Design, as the needs of this growing church were front and center. Working with the church team and a church builder from out of state, we defined the Building Program for the Sanctuary which seated 1828.

The services were so dynamic that 400-500 would come forward every week during the altar call. We made provisions in the design to accommodate these numbers in the aisles and at the front. There was also a Choir Loft for 135, an Orchestra Pit, and an expansive Baptistry Suite with five Dressing Rooms for both men and women—plus a dedicated waiting area for those in queue. The volume of baptisms was a powerful indication of the church’s ministry in action.

Additional space programming included a Green Room, Counseling Rooms, a Nursery, Nursing Station, Choir Rehearsal Room, a spacious Foyer with an Information Booth, and a Parlor & Kitchenette for Visitor’s Receptions. The total building area was 28,544 sf.

The design approach reflected the church’s vision—contemporary, streamlined, and complementary to the existing campus buildings. As requested, the exterior maintained clean, modern lines, while the Sanctuary interior was conceived to feel more architectural and immersive.

The project faced some budgetary challenges–particularly due to early pricing from the builder. However, our time with Pastor Mack and the church left a lasting impression, and we remain grateful for the project and our opportunity in its development.