16 July 2026

At school, we discovered Cartesian co-ordinates. In two dimensional space, each point has two co-ordinates which can be mapped onto a grid with horizontal and vertical lines intersecting at the point (0,0). The system was created by Rene Descartes, hence the name.

In this way, the French mathematician was able to transform geometry into algebra. Geometrical shapes became algebraic functions which could then be handled much more readily. Geometrical shapes and pictures cannot be easily manipulated.

In the introduction to, ‘Sense of the Sacramental’ which was edited by David Brown and Ann Loades, the editors write about the co-ordinates of sacred space.  It is faith which generates  its own set of spatial and temporal co-ordinates.

Are these co-ordinates like the co-ordinates in Cartesian space which mark the transformation from geometry to algebra? What is the transformation being effected here? What happens in sacred space allows us to enter the Kingdom of God.

‘The co-ordinates we adopt are no longer our own, but those given by God, and so make it possible for us to share more deeply in a God-centred perception of our world.’ write the editors. In acknowledging the co-ordinates of this sacred space, two things follow.

Firstly, reverence for the co-ordinates marking out this space. It reveals, however fleetingly, a glimpse of God and his Kingdom. Secondly, a code of conduct appropriate to this space. Restraint, self-forgetfulness, expectation, adoration, praise, prayer and love all fill this sacred space.