The Importance Of Having Beautiful Churches
Just this past weekend, Jennie and her girls attended Mass at St. Mary’s Basilica in Phoenix. Her oldest daughter, who has been questioning everything about the faith, was blown away by the simple beauty of the Basilica. It served as a reminder of the importance that church architecture and beauty play in catechising our children.
The beauty of a church is a crucial aspect that contributes to its spiritual significance and overall impact on the community. Throughout history, churches have been the center of religious and cultural activities and have played a vital role in shaping society. They have been symbols of hope, peace, and sanctity, and their beauty reflects the beliefs and values of the people who built them. In this essay, I will argue that church beauty matters for several reasons, including its impact on worship, its cultural significance, and its role in preserving history.
First and foremost, church beauty plays a critical role in the worship experience. A beautiful church provides a peaceful and calming environment that helps people feel closer to their faith. It can also serve as a visual reminder of the transcendent and the eternal, which can deepen one's spiritual connection. For example, stained glass windows can illustrate stories from the bible, sculptures can depict the saints, and intricate architecture can reflect the beauty of God's creation. All of these elements can create an atmosphere that inspires reflection and contemplation, allowing worshipers to escape the distractions of the outside world and focus on their relationship with God.
Furthermore, church beauty is a significant aspect of cultural heritage. It is an expression of the beliefs, values, and traditions of a community, and serves as a testament to the rich history of a particular religion. For example, Gothic cathedrals in Europe, such as Notre-Dame in Paris, are considered some of the most magnificent examples of Christian architecture. They tell the story of the Christian faith through their intricate designs, sculptures, and stained glass windows, and serve as a symbol of the cultural heritage of the countries in which they are located.
In addition to its cultural significance, church beauty is also an essential aspect of preserving history. Beautiful churches are often historic landmarks that have stood the test of time and serve as a reminder of the past. They are a testament to the skills and creativity of the craftsmen and artists who built them, and they can provide a glimpse into the lives and beliefs of people from a different era. For example, the Sistine Chapel in Rome is a stunning example of Renaissance art and architecture, and it serves as a symbol of the artistic and cultural achievements of that time period.
Finally, church beauty is an expression of devotion to God. Throughout history, people have used their talents and resources to build beautiful churches as a way of expressing their love and devotion to their faith. By creating a beautiful and inspiring environment, they demonstrate their commitment to preserving the traditions and values of their religion. This devotion to beauty is evident in the time, effort, and resources that have been invested in the creation of stunning churches throughout the world.
The beauty of a church is an essential aspect that contributes to its spiritual significance and overall impact on the community. From its impact on worship to its cultural significance and role in preserving history, church beauty matters for many reasons. It serves as a visual reminder of the transcendent and the eternal, a testament to cultural heritage, and a source of pride and unity for the community. By preserving and restoring church beauty, we not only honor the traditions and beliefs of the past but also provide a glimpse into the lives and values of our ancestors. Or as the priest sings in the Divine Liturgy, the Forefathers, Fathers, Patriarchs, Prophets, Apostles, Preachers, Evangelists, Martyrs, Confessors, Ascetics, and for every just spirit made perfect in the faith.
