The Chinese Academy of Gospel Theology is a theological education institution dedicated to training students in biblical study and practice. The campus features four buildings designed according to functional needs: a cultural and educational building, an auditorium, and dormitories for both teachers and students. These buildings are connected by a semi-open corridor that protects against wind and rain, aligned along a central axis and linked to the campus walkway, creating a comprehensive and convenient environment for research and daily living.
The church, located within the auditorium building adjacent to the campus entrance square, stands as the heart of the campus and its most iconic structure. Its exterior design symbolizes the “Trinity True God,” featuring a cross-shaped bell tower that interacts with sunlight to cast dynamic light and shadow, evoking a serene and solemn atmosphere.
The church’s interior is organized into three sequential spaces: the front hall, the main sanctuary, and the lectern. Upon entering, the front hall acts as a transitional buffer before and after worship. Following this is the 9.6-meter high main sanctuary, featuring upper and lower floors that accommodate 600 seats, with flexible capacity for an additional 200 seats. This space offers a calm and stable atmosphere for worship. The lectern area enhances the church’s spiritual and symbolic significance.
The lobby is a spacious, column-free area measuring 24 by 20 meters, constructed with a steel structure inspired by Gothic church architecture. Steel columns on each side curve upward to create continuous arches that define the space. Diagonal steel beams form a large-span mesh beam system that reinterprets the ribbed vaults typical of Gothic design, shaping a unique worship environment. The sound-diffusing walls are crafted from spruce wood strips embedded on either side, fulfilling the chapel’s acoustic requirements and serving as part of the air conditioning system.
In contrast to the elaborate lobby, the podium features a simpler design that conveys its sacred nature. Its main wall is clad in warm-toned natural granite, with morning sunlight streaming through a hollow cross at the center, illuminating the stone. This design reflects the biblical phrase, “God is a sturdy rock, my refuge, and the light of the world…”
The overhead skylight bathes the podium in soft, diffuse light throughout the day, creating a striking contrast with the shadowed lobby. The illuminated cross on the main wall extends into the deep space, fostering a peaceful and contemplative atmosphere that guides visitors towards spiritual tranquility.
Project Drawings
△ General Layout Plan
△ Second and Third Floor Plans
△ Ceiling Plan
△ Section Diagram
△ Sectional Perspective
△ Analysis Chart
△ Detailed Structural Drawing
△ Structural Analysis Diagram
Project Information
Architect: JJP Architects & Planners
Area: 2,983 m²
Year of Completion: 2019
Photographers: Shawn Liu, W.S. Hsieh
Lead Architect: Pan Ji
Design Team: Ye Shengdian, Ma Faye, Ouyang Jun, Wu Zihua, Zheng Luoru, Lin Yuting, Huang Shifang, Yang Jialin
Owner: Christian Huashen School (Legal Entity)
Structural Consultant: Xianggu Engineering Consultant Co., Ltd.
Mechanical and Electrical Consultant: Wu Jianxing Electric and Air Conditioning Technician Firm
Sound Consultant: Department of Architecture, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology
Location: Hong Kong, China
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