Oct. 23, 1239, the (main) Wells Cathedral in England is consecrated, its construction spanning the centuries from 1175 to 1490. Yes, over three centuries in the building process!
This magnificent work of Gothic architecture includes a unique kind of arch known as a "scissors arch" or inverted arch feature which was designed to better support the weight of its massive spires. Amazingly enough, some of the stained glass windows of this heritage building date back to the 1280 - 1290 era, surviving wars, earthquakes and all the ravages of time.
http://www.wellssomerset.com/shop11631_cat941_wells_cathedral_attractions.htm
The 10 cathedral bells are also in a league of their own, weighing a total of almost 11 tons, the heaviest being the tenor bell named "Harewell", which weighs in at a stunning 6312 lbs.
The Wells Cathedral holds weekly services and is graced by the sounds of the Wells Cathedral Choir, a chorale of wide renown.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_QSG1ymbEzs&feature=related
What a history! What a structure! What a sound!
And then some 21 years later, October 24, 1260 marked the consecration of another stunning place of worship - the Chartres Cathedral in France.
These awe-inspiring edifices show that, over time, people spared little expense and effort to express their devotion to a High and Holy God. And while these structures fulfill a purpose, Jesus said that worship is not restricted to a certain place or building, but rather -
"It's who you are and the way you live that count before God. Your worship must engage your spirit in the pursuit of truth. That's the kind of people the Father is out looking for: those who are simply and honestly themselves before him in their worship. God is sheer being itself—Spirit. Those who worship him must do it out of their very being, their spirits, their true selves, in adoration." (John 4:23, 24, MSG.)
Isn't that amazing? While entering these great cathedrals might draw us into a deep sense of worship by virtue of their overwhelming beauty and sheer grandeur, we can worship Him out in the field, on the range, the barn even . . . during those beautiful moments when the all-surpassing reality of His presence (Spirit) comes crashing through all the "drab" experience of common life, gracing the moment with a sense of awe and worship that springs from recognizing His hand at work in some small - or great - act of Divine intervention.
What a gift, that His Spirit would so unexpectedly draw us into communion with Him wherever we are! I think it means that He must really want to visit with us, like a dad who longs to sit and talk with his children!
Have you experienced that, or do you want to? It's as simple as honestly opening your consciousness (spirit) to Him and allowing Him to speak. You won't be disappointed!