There are beautiful cathedrals all over the world that people flock to by the thousands.
I doubt that St. Paul’s in Houston is on many people’s must see list, but to me it is as lovely as any cathedral anywhere.
By today’s standards it is an old building as it was constructed nearly 100 years ago thanks to the generosity of some of Houston’s then leading citizens. The craftsmanship would be hard to duplicate and if it were possible it would be at great expense.
The bell tower has real bells operated by real people, and on Sunday mornings their sound fills the air.
Because of its architectural significance and beauty, St. Paul’s has been named a historical landmark, hopefully meaning it will be here for years to come.
Inside is a quiet elegance reflective of the neo-Gothic style.
There are no gilded columns or ornate statues, just beautiful stained glass windows through which the sun shines and, when they are open, allow bird sounds to fill the sanctuary.
I am glad the doors here are always open because it offers a quiet refuge.
When the world is crazy around me, I sometimes like to go and sit in the empty building and wonder why the voice of evil is sometimes so much louder than the voice of love or why tragedy strikes so unexpectedly. Those questions have been hard to answer this week.
i so appreciate your visit and the comments you leave behind
Joining
I attended church there and sang in the choir back in the Summer of 1977. Then I moved way over to Westheimer at Fondren and decided it was too far away to continue church there.
The choir is still a shining star.
Being as musical as I am, the Methodists and Presbyterians were always my favorite churches because of their extensive music programs. We had women’s choir, men’s choir, combined choir, youth choir, bell choir, and children’s choir.
Gorgeous cathedral…I remember when you could go into a cathedral at any time…it is so awful that evil has taken that away from us….I love this post…thank you!!!
Beautiful architecture and the perfect spot to sit quietly and say a prayer.
It’s good to have a place of tranquility.
Lulu, I was so glad to hear that the doors are always open for visitors. There is such peace inside.. such comfort. It seems nowadays most churches are closed except for Sundays. Why does that have to be? There have been times when I would be driving in an area I was so not familiar with and feeling lost and scared. I’d see a church and think I can go in there to find help. But of course, the doors are locked without a single person nearby. Oh, for the good ol’ days! What joy that historic church remains true to its purpose! Thanks for posting!
That is one beautiful church, Linda. And Quiet Beauty is such a good title for this piece. i grew up going to a lovely church in Iowa, baptized there, and got married in it. I would always go and marvel at the stained glass windows – wondering how they could create such beauty!!
Thanks for sharing this Lulu! Beautiful, beautiful church! Next time we are in Houston we will need to go and take a look at this great piece of architecture! 🙂
Kenley
And you can see me as we’ll!
What a beautiful church and a lovely post.
I host a weekly link party called “Oh, the PLACES I’ve been!” on Fridays. I think this post would be better served if you linked it there rather than Seasonal Sundays.You’re welcome at post parties, but I just think it would fit there better.
– The Tablescaper
Wonderful architectural detail!!!
You got it, Kim. The building is not at all showy but has a calm serenity that stills my heart.
So Lovely!!
Truly one of my favorite places anywhere.
I think I might have seen this beautiful cathedral on a recent “60 Minutes” or other program like that. How incredibly beautiful!!!! I am so thrilled that they are able to keep their doors open for those who seek solitude and a chance to engage in meaningful thought & prayer. There are (sadly) so many churches that are forced to keep their doors locked for fear of the very people who actually NEED to have a little face time with God coming in and wreaking havoc.
I hope your weekend was a good one.
What a shame it is to have to keep doors closed, any doors.
That is a beautiful cathedral. I’ll remember to visit when we are in Houston. Thank you for the information!
St. Paul’s is across the street from the Museum of Fine Arts, very easy to find.
Great post Linda x
Thank you, Jean. Sometimes it’s good to have a quiet place to go.
Beautiful!
Thank you, Marigene. I so appreciate you.
Beautiful indeed!
Sent from my iPhone🌴♻
Janice, I am always glad to see you here. It makes me feel closer to you.
Awesome !
Truly an edifice that will stand the test of time.