some of my design considerations...

I am quite worried what makes (not so traditional Christian) sacred architecture sacred, so I did a couple of research and here's some ideas to consider (one way to look at it):

"the more positive and impressive the architecture, the more it is culturally impregnated, the more it inhibits new thinking"
"liturgy becomes pure theatre and magic when it is enacted upon such a fantastic and dreamlike stage set"
"the most eloquent worship space may, in the long run, be that which at first appears to say very little." the "system of forces," expressed with subtlety and understatement, should be recognized or become obvious after habituation, revealing assets slowly, and the mind being drawn to its form and beauty.

-basically, simplicity is the safest way to go, in order to avoid digression from the message/focus. this also avoids setting messages or preaching "sermons in stone." The circulation paths should reveal slowly the beauty and assets of the building/chapel and its message or mood.
Bearing that this is a non-denominational church, it warns that the complexities would confuse and complicated symbol-systems (like the stations of the cross) would speak loud, gearing towards a narrower thinking. But of course, there are ways to avoid these without being too simple or cliche of sacred architecture (the author also mentions how very efficient a box form is - and I actually notice this in most of the modern church plans I've looked at).
At least this is my short interpretation of a couple of chapters (Third Millennium Churches by Peter Smith), some of which are difficult to summarize.

This research (still going) impacts my design thinking, which is why i initially started using box forms to keep at simplest and manipulate from there, to see how much i am becoming too complex. My design goal is ultimately to keep the forms simple, at the same time adding minimal manipulations, accommodating secular and religious activities, zen views, utilizing the ocean view but not making it too important,, and keeping an enlightening/de-stressing mood.

Some of the author's good points or additional considerations
for the chapel area:

-the chair arrangement (people) should be in close vicinity of the speaker (for visual and auditory contact). An arc around the speaker is a good area, rather than longitudinal, because its shape produces a more coherent idea of a congregation/group, the symbolic system becomes more about fellowship/family.
-a focal point would give coherence to the whole space, it being the pivot.
-corners enable the mind to locate position and dimensions
- a single space should be maintained
-light should not be in high proportion to avoid glare eye strains. Definitely, do not place the minister behind a large window/curtain wall as the sharp contrast would darken him.
-"simplicity and uniformity in wall finish" is desirable