A few years ago, we visited Eureka Springs, Arkansas, a beautiful, little gem cradled within the magnificent Ozark Mountains.
During our trip, one of the most unusual and awe-inspiring places we stopped at was Thorncrown Chapel. Thorncrown is a 48-foot feet glass chapel ensconced within a lush, wooded setting, and it boasts over 425 windows and 6,000+ square feet of glass. It is, indeed, a sight to behold!
Admission to Thorncrown is free, although donations are accepted.
This particular chapel is fourth on the AIA’s (American Institute of Architects) top buildings of the 20th century. They hold Sunday services here and play host to many weddings. The day we visited Thorncrown it was raining, so the above photo was the only one I snapped, and it doesn’t do this breathtaking chapel full justice.
As we entered the chapel, a few folks were milling about; a few were seated in the padded pews quietly meditating. Soft music played in the background lending to the reflective mood, and the atmosphere was one of tranquility and reverence.
I wondered about the history of such an enormous undertaking. The installation of all the glass alone must have been nothing short of miraculous. As I learned more about the chapel and the man who first envisioned building it, I was truly humbled.
Visiting Thorncrown made me think about life and how we view things. Some folks might see the chapel and all of its windows as a massive waste of glass. I, personally, saw the beauty in the God-inspired design and in the lush, green setting of which the chapel was a part of.
I left our stop that day with a prayer of thanks on my tongue and with such sweet peace within my heart. I couldn’t wait to jot an entry in my journal about the place that was forever etched in my memory. I wanted to write about every nuance: the sheen of the glass, the use of color, the back-to-nature “feel.” All of it and more.
I was caught up in a “John Boy” type of moment, and I half-expected the series credits to start rolling as I reluctantly made my way with my family back to our car.
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Do you think when we view something so profound for the first time that it touches us the same way a second time? Do you write about these experiences or somehow merge them into your WIP?
Comments 8
Lovely post. What a beautiful concept for a church. I love sunset and
sunrises. When the setting sun catches the clouds and atmosphere
on fire with brilliant oranges and pinks, it still evokes a gasp and
gratitude to the One who painted it. 🙂
Author
So true, Tanya. And I enjoyed your description. (Use that one in a future book or devotional. Beautiful.)
Wow, I’ve never heard of that chapel…It’s going on my must-see list. 🙂
I love the idea of a church that points to the creation of our Creator. Can’t get much better than that.
Author
Thorncrown Chapel is truly breathtaking, Sarah. I could have sat for hours and just soaked up the atmosphere, but alas…not enough time that day.
Wow. Beautiful chapel.
I do write about things that have touched me…they are included some way into my work.
Author
I often think of you, Loree, as I read about historical events happening in our area. It truly takes a discerning eye to make those days of the past come alive!
What a lovely place. I really liked the winter picture with it surrounded by snow. I think it depends on the place/experience as to whether it holds the same fascination a second time. Those moments always find their way into my journal.
Author
I agree, Patti. Sometimes, seeing something for the first time is unlike any other, and it does depend upon the place, I think.