Most Effective Places of Worship
European communities have devoted the sweat and wealth of countless generations into building their places of worship. Some are cold and empty; others inspire prayer. They are "effective" in that they produce a very definite and powerful response. Which European churches, mosques, temples, or other places of worship affected you the most?
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Ronchamp - France
Notre Dame du Haut in Ronchamp, France, is an architectural and spiritual destination. Designed by Le Corbusier, every detail fits together to provide a tranquil and inspiring holy atmosphere. It's a trek to get to but well worth the trip.
Liz T <email>
Chapel Hill, NC USA 09/01/2009
St. Anne's Lutheran Church in London, designed by Christopher Wren. Practically in the shadows of St. Paul's Cathedral.
I've explored Southwark Cathedral in London and been the only person in there. Very quiet despite the hubbub going on right outside its doors.
I've also been to an Evensong service @ Winchester Cathedral, and went on a "pilgrimage" tour around the cathedral afterwards. That tour was designed as a prayer/worship experience. Really nice.
Andrea
Laramie, WY USA 07/25/2009
Vatican City/ St Peter's
There is a small prayer chapel in St Peter's in Vatican City. While it was inspiring to pray at St Peter's, it was disapointing to be interupted mid-prayer, and told I had to leave because they were closing.
If you want to pray in Vatican City pay attention to the "business hours" and make sure you get there in time for all your prayers.
Gina
Denver, CO USA 06/01/2009
Riga, Latvia, 1st United Methodist Chiurch
Riga Latvia...1st United Methodist Church on Akas iela. Warmth and gentle spirit are breathtaking
Randy T <email>
Bedford , Texas USA 05/24/2009
Shabbat
There is a beautiful art nouveau synagogue in the Marais neighbourhood of Paris designed by Hector Guimard- the same man that designed the Paris metro entrances. I found the French Jewish community very welcoming.
Rivka
Toronto, ON USA 05/05/2009
London cathedrals and churches
I have a special interest in churches and cathedrals, and have visited a number in the UK, especially in London. All have been worth visiting, but in terms of beauty and inspiration, here are my top picks (in no particular order):
Westminster Abbey
St. Bartholomew the Great, especially at evensong on Sunday evening: outstanding small professional choir, very atmospheric.
St. Paul's
Southwark Cathedral
Note: if you are in London during the beginning of Advent, look into attending an Advent carol service at either Westminster Abbey or St. Paul's. I attended candle-lit carol services at both in Dec. 2007. I found both extremely inspiring.
Alison
Chicago, IL USA 03/09/2009
Aix-en-Provence, France
In a small, old, Episcipalian church just off the Cours Mirabeau, in Aix-en-Provence, a group of Christians gather each week to worship. ICCP (International Christian Community of Provence) is a home away from home for many international Christians, as Aix has a large international community. The service is held in English and is much like a contemporary service in many American churches today. You might be lucky though, and be there on a week where they do a casual service of singing, sharing stories, and eating (favorite French pastries and goodies from a recent care package from home). The people are friendly and would be all to happy to suggest day trips and restaurants. The service is held each Sunday at 17h30 (5:30) at:
9 Rue de la Masse, Aix-en-Provence
Susie <email>
Snohomish, WA USA 01/21/2009