Our House of Worship

Nestled in the serene mountains of Southern California's Angeles National Forest, the main house of worship for the Church of Boonana is a remarkable architectural feat, inspired by the unique blend of Wobbegong shark characteristics and traditional Hawaiian design. This distinctive building, far from being a conventional church, reflects the church's deep connection with nature and its unique spiritual ethos.

The structure's exterior showcases the intricate, mottled texture reminiscent of the Wobbegong's skin, harmoniously integrated into the lush forest surroundings. Thatched roofing, a homage to Hawaiian architectural styles, complements the building's organic form, merging modern design with natural aesthetics. Open, airy spaces invite the refreshing mountain breeze, symbolizing the church's emphasis on openness and inclusivity.

Silver bananas, a notable feature of the building, adorn strategic points, glistening under the California sun. These elements are not merely decorative but deeply symbolic, representing the Church of Boonana's identity and its reverence for the banana's simplicity and joy.

Inside, the worship space is a sanctuary of tranquility, where members gather in circular arrangements, fostering a sense of community and equality. The interior maintains a connection to the natural world, with large windows offering panoramic views of the surrounding forest and mountainous terrain, reminding congregants of their place within the larger tapestry of nature.

This main house of worship is more than a building; it's a testament to the Church of Boonana's core values – a love for nature, a commitment to sustainability, and a celebration of the spiritual journey. Set against the backdrop of the Angeles National Forest, it stands as a beacon of peace, community, and harmony with the environment.

Architected by Senior Butts

The story of how Senior Butts was commissioned to be the architect of the Church of Boonana's house of worship is a tale of serendipity, vision, and a shared love for nature and creativity.

Senior Butts, known for his unconventional architectural designs and deep respect for the natural environment, was initially unaware of the Church of Boonana. His journey with the church began quite unexpectedly, during a hiking trip in the Angeles National Forest. While exploring the forest's serene beauty, Senior Butts stumbled upon a group of Church of Boonana members during one of their outdoor gatherings. Intrigued by their distinctive banana hats and the harmonious way they interacted with their surroundings, he struck up a conversation with them.

The members shared with Senior Butts the core beliefs of the Church of Boonana – their reverence for nature, their commitment to community and environmental sustainability, and their admiration for the Wobbegong shark and Boonana Bay. They spoke of their dream to build a house of worship that would embody these values and serve as a sanctuary for both spiritual growth and environmental stewardship.

Senior Butts was captivated by the church's philosophy. He saw in their vision an opportunity to create something truly unique – a building that would not only be a place of worship but also a testament to living in harmony with nature. His ideas for the design resonated deeply with the church's ethos: a structure inspired by the Wobbegong shark and Hawaiian architecture, blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings of the Angeles National Forest.

The church leaders were impressed by Senior Butts' passion for sustainable design and his innovative approach. They felt that his vision aligned perfectly with their own, and they commissioned him to design their house of worship. Senior Butts accepted the commission with enthusiasm, excited to contribute to a project that so closely mirrored his own values.

The collaboration between Senior Butts and the Church of Boonana was a harmonious blend of architectural innovation and spiritual reverence for nature. The house of worship that emerged from this partnership became a symbol of the church's identity – a unique structure that stood as a testament to creativity, sustainability, and the unifying power of faith and nature. It was not just a building, but a reflection of the journey and the shared dreams of Senior Butts and the Church of Boonana.