Our Story
Sanctuary for Sacred Arts is a non-profit corporation, founded in 2004, which serves as a resource for religious leaders, builders and renovators of churches, and students in Western Oregon. It is ecumenical, affiliating with a multiplicity of church, community, Catholic high schools, and religious organizations.
Mission Statement
The purpose of Sanctuary for Sacred Arts is to foster and encourage the promotion, use, development, and study of sacred arts and architecture.
Board of Directors
- Msgr. Charles Lienert — President
- Paula Hamilton — Executive Director
- Dan Hecht — Business & Finance
- Tricia Hecht-Glad — Business & Finance
- Marie Acurso — Artist & Teacher
- Fr. Rick Sirianni — Artist
In Memoriam
Fr. John Domin (1923–2017)
Co-founder of Sanctuary for Sacred Arts, Fr. Domin served the Portland Archdiocese as a priest for 57 years. He chaired the Sacred Art Commission of the Portland Archdiocese for three decades, engaging in the design and renovation of over 100 churches to conform to Vatican II. His watercolor and calligraphy reflect periods of deep contemplative prayer, seeking beauty in ordinary things.
J. David Richen (1940–2016)
Co-founder and president of Sanctuary for Sacred Arts for 12 years. Dave worked nearly 50 years in architecture, planning, and building construction, holding a Master of City Planning from UC Berkeley and a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Oregon. He served churches and Christian communities since 1983, designing over 28 churches — including St. Mary’s in Mt. Angel and the Trappist Abbey in Lafayette. He incorporated natural light and the environment into his designs, striving for beauty and simplicity. Dave died peacefully, surrounded by his family, on October 26, 2016, after a long battle with cancer.