Six Columns

The Protestant City Church of Unna, Germany was built between 1322 and 1479. I suppose we could analyze the fact that I published pictures of its bell tower a few days before showing you photos of the interior worship space.....but it's time to correct that oversight.

It began with six columns in 1322. Over the recent decades, the city and the church members have been careful to preserve their heritage and so one sees a beautiful worship environment.

The intricate detail on the base of the baptismal fount. (Above)

Here is the "bowl" of the baptismal fount. (Above)

There are seven stained glass windows in the choir from 1964/65. 

And tombstones of former clergymen, mayors, judges, and teachers who were buried in the 17th & 18th centuries line the walls. These were removed when the floor was remodeled. ("We don't exile death from inside the church. The living and the deceased together belong to the communion with God.")

Perhaps the grandest pulpit ornamentation that I have ever seen. I will be in touch with my Worship Committee in Dublin for an upgrading of our pulpit. As you can see....I have already taken it out for a test drive.

It's interesting to note that the upper sides of the pulpit are padded. Does that mean that the Word of God is so powerful that you need protection when it is preached? Or perhaps the clergy were just prone to toppling over and thus the padding. 

In any case....there are twelve (12!) stairs to reach the pulpit. Perhaps some symbolism there.

I only climb two stairs to reach the modest pulpit from which I preach....no doubt some symbolism there too.

I keep returning to these massive churches and cathedrals. You dear reader, may tire, but I am not yet ready to quit them. Each has a design and story to tell and I am thrilled with each one. 

I remember as a boy walking past a church at the time of Easter. Outside it had a cloth draped cross and the words...."Is it nothing to you, all ye who pass by?" I understood what that meant for the faithful who may or may not just casually walk by the church during Easter and not remember what that day means to Chrisitians. 

I feel the same with church structures. How can I pass by and NOT see, touch and learn of the history of these churches and thus try to understand what it was and is that makes people spend such sums and years and lives for their upkeep...and hopefully for the glory of God. 

The Protestant City Church of Unna, Germany is a gem.

Peace,  Bob