By far, this is my favorite Catholic Church in Vancouver.
First of all, the aesthetics. Call me a product of my raising, but I prefer a more "linear" style of church, where if you viewed it from above it would resemble a cross (with the main entrance being at the foot of it) rather than a circle. I like decorations that are more timeless than modern, that create an air of both familiarity and reverence.
Secondly, I appreciate good music that blends into the mass rather than steals the attention. Most recently, I attended a Saturday vigil mass on 4/6/13, and there was a good mix of instruments along with a cantor who was talented but did not seem to be seeking attention for herself. I also prefer that the songs are kept at a reasonable length--again, the music should add to the mass, not overpower it, and that that delicate balance is struck here.
Thirdly, I love a good, thought-provoking sermon. I tend to believe that one that rambles on too long draws too much attention to the priest. The mass is about Jesus's sacrifice, about uniting with Him in the Eucharist. The homily should draw us to that in some form or another, and the homily should not become the central focus of the mass.
The only drawback for me is that to receive communion, they have you kneel at the communion rails. Not my favorite, but with all other things considered, not a big concession for me to make.
Expect mass here to go somewhere between 50 minutes to an hour. read more