Design of the Lectionaries for the German-Speaking Bishops’ Conferences

The German-speaking bishops’ conferences have issued a call for proposals to redesign the lectionaries as works of book art. The goal is to develop a contemporary, symbolic design without text. At the same time, the style, color, and form should emphasize the dignity of Sacred Scripture and the solemnity of liturgical celebration. And, precisely as a work of art, it should be, in accordance with the Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy of the Second Vatican Council, “a sign and symbol of heavenly realities” (Sacrosanctum Concilium 122).

The lectionaries, as repositories of the written Word of God, serve the liturgy, which is the summit “toward which the Church’s activity is directed” and which “is at the same time the source from which all her strength flows” (Scorsantum Concilium 10).

The lesson plans designed by Christof Cremer in collaboration with Julia Oppermann are characterized by their simplicity and conciseness, while at the same time offering a high degree of recognizability and distinctiveness.

The design reflects the significance and process of proclaiming the Word of God. What were originally only oral traditions were recorded in writing, making them recitable in the same way everywhere. During the Liturgy of the Word, the written word is brought to life, and the Word of God spreads dynamically, like waves. The colorful parables on the cover symbolize the spread of the Word through speaking and reading. They come from infinity and return there, continuing to echo as if in an echo chamber. The books’ golden covers underscore the high value of their contents.

Christof Cremer, a freelance costume and set designer born in Heinsberg (Germany), lives in Vienna and works internationally. In addition to his work in theater, Christof Cremer conceives and curates exhibitions and works as a scenographer. Sacred art is another facet of his work. In this field, his projects include the development of new liturgical objects and vestments, as well as the design of church interiors and spatial installations.

Cover design: atelier cremer / Christof Cremer, Julia Oppermann

© Visualization: Christopher Gruber

Related links:
Liturgical Institute of German-Speaking Switzerland