This is a second take at beauty and spirituality (my first post is here).

For a number of years I lived in the DC metro area, and after I discovered the need in my life for regular retreat days, I would often spend my time at the National Cathedral. It was a wonderful place to take in spectacular beauty (in the gardens, amidst the gothic architecture and guided by the amazing pieces of liturgical art scattered about). I would often spend the first hour or so just wandering aimlessly “taking it in.” Then my custom often led me to St. Joseph’s Chapel in the basement of the Cathedral - here it was often quiet, away from the tourists and I was able to meditate, dream, rest and read in relative peace. In the midst of this space - created to help the pilgrim turn toward God - I was often the recipient of grace, peace, love and fresh perspective and faith.

I recall one particular afternoon vividly. I was fighting sleep. I was struggling to focus. I was restless. I was fairly perturbed at noisy custodians and carefree visitors. I had already wandered aimlessly not finding “appropriate” or “desirable” alternative spots to St. Joseph’s Chapel. I had squandered precious time perusing the trinkets, books and “gifts” at the Cathedral Bookstore and now feeling like a complete wreck (heck if I can’t find God here in a cathedral, what is wrong with me!) I was desperate. Following my well-worn and well-known path back toward St. Joseph’s Chapel I noticed a door in an alcove just a few steps from the exit of the basement steps. The door said welcome and had a title - like office of center for spirituality, or some such thing (now it is the office for The Cathedral Center for Prayer and Pilgrimage. I walked in.

It was a very sedate office with a waiting room feel (very much out of character for this Gothic Cathedral) I noticed a few journals placed on end tables and there was rack of books that I naturally gave a “once over.” Then I noticed it. Another doorway off to the right of the “waiting room.” I made my way over the threshold.

I immediately became aware of my heartbeat slowing, I felt cool air, I breathed in the whole atmosphere - I felt home (not just nostalgic feelings, but a sense of belonging at the very core of who I am). There was nothing ancient or Gothic about this basement prayer space and yet everything about it caused me to reflect and rest and remember and sense the refreshing of the Most Hight God. I had stumbled into what I can only describe as a “Thin Space” (that is how the Ancient Celts referred to “sacred spaces”). A “thin space” are those places where the fabric of this world and the next world is overlapping in such a way that we get a glimpse of and genuinely sense the nearness of God.

This basement prayer room was a space full of natural light (through skylights) intricate yet stark modern architecture, candles, and prayer-centric furnishings - the space called to and invited the guest to encounter The Mystery. There was little need to “enter in;” I was plunged into God and there I rested and was refreshed. I can’t tell you what took place, or remember my thoughts, I can tell you that the hospitality of this quiet get-a-way was one that is etched on my soul.

I honestly haven’t been back to this room in over 6 years… so I don’t know if it still exists - but it’s beauty and sacredness helped shape me into who I am becoming. I pray that you have found such places/spaces where your soul can expand, roots deepen and the well of your life can be refreshed. In the evangelical heritage I am a part of - finding a dedicated prayer space in one of our churches is unfortunately a rare occurrence since we seem to be enamored with Multi-purpose spaces vice Sacred and dedicated spaces (that is a rant for another post). As a result I need to seek out such spaces.

Where do you find such beauty, hospitality, sacred spaces - a place that ushers you into God’s presence - in nature, in a cathedral, in a basement chapel, in a private prayer closet or somewhere else? Add a comment and share the beauty of your sacred space.