One day I realized that architecture, although it cannot change the world by itself, has the power to create scenarios that bring about change. With this conviction, I went into a rural community in Quito to find out if there were any needs that could be met through architecture. Without hesitation, the inhabitants told me: “Here we no longer have faith, because there is no church”. It was then that we decided to get down to work.

Given the magnitude of the project, we decided to carry out a constant participatory process. We wanted to create a concept in which all members of the community would feel identified and involved. Thus, each step of the design and construction of the church was a collective effort, reflecting the needs and desires of the community, and strengthening the sense of belonging and hope in the process.