This architectural masterpiece in Japan is facing temporary closure due to a shortage of volunteers.
In the picturesque town of Ibaraki, located 25km outside Osaka, Japan, stands an extraordinary architectural masterpiece created by Tadao Ando, known as the Church of the Light. This remarkable structure embodies Ando's profound philosophy, seamlessly blending nature and architecture. Light takes centre stage here, defining and shaping the perception of space, rivalling even Ando's renowned concrete constructions. Originally finished in 1989, the Church of the Light marked the first phase of an extensive redesign of the Christian compound in Ibaraki. The project concluded in 1999, all envisioned under Ando's distinctive design aesthetic.
Unfortunately for architecture and design lovers, the church has decided to suspend its customary tours temporarily. The devoted volunteers entrusted with conducting these tours are grappling with difficulties due to the effects of ageing. Presently, some of them are in the process of recovering at home, while others have unfortunately passed away.
While the church wants to welcome and accommodate visitors, this measure has become necessary to address the exhaustion and loss experienced by members who carry out the visitation duties.
Despite the continued interest from countless individuals in visiting the church, there is a notable scarcity of volunteers who actively participate as members and support from within. It maintains a sense of hope and prayerfulness, with the aspiration of recuperating as much as possible and eventually resuming its provision of visitation opportunities later in the future.
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