Religion: Decor: Discomfort

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"Blonde crosses protrude from shimmering chartreuse hangings, and woodsy nooks make patios of the chancel. Sheer glass turns the pulpit into a fish bowl, and in every corner the symbol of agonizing redemption is used for esthetic decoration." That is how a lot of modern churches look to Dr. Robert Spike, minister of the United Church of Christ, who aired his complaint in Los Angeles last week at the National Conference on Church Architecture.

But the architect is not wholly to blame. Dr. Spike added. "He can only reflect the congregation's understanding of worship." Milwaukee Architect William P. Wenzler, 30, himself a member of Dr. Spike's church, proved that designers can take a tough line with congregations. Architect Wenzler delivered a discomforting guest sermon last week to members of the Congregational Church of Mukwonago, Wis., announced that his new church for them is meant to combat "complacency, smugness, comfort, escape from reality." His plans: no soft lights, lush carpeting, cushioned pews or padded kneelers. Said Spartan Wenzler: "The church of today must be prodded, worried, concerned, disturbed." The congregation's unanimous response: "Delighted."