One often does not think of a building as awe-inspiring; however, the Cologne Cathedral can change that in a second. I had seen pictures of the Cologne Cathedral and knew of its sheer size and beauty, but as I came out of the train station and looked upon the church’s spires hundreds of feet in the air, I couldn’t help but have my jaw drop.
The inside of the cathedral was just as impressive with its large ceilings and stain glass windows splashing a bit of color into the dim halls. Words really can’t sum up the size and splendor of this mammoth building. The beauty truly caused a desire to worship.
Luckily the time for worship came on Sunday morning when we got the opportunity to attend high mass. Going to a traditional Catholic service was completely different for me, coming from a contemporary, nondenominational background. The main difference that stood out to me was the burning of incense; however, I thought it could have been a way to raise “a pleasing aroma” to the Lord as often the Israelites did in the Old Testament. I don’t agree with prayer to Mary, but besides those two things, the service seemed to be like a normal, traditional Reformed service. Of course, I could not be sure of all that was said and compare it from a theological standpoint as the service was in German and Latin. The Hymns were a part that I loved joining in on, praising the Lord along with an incredible choir and organ.
After the service, it was quite the shock to see hundreds of people looking in behind us. Although it seemed weird that mass was almost a tourist attraction, it couldn’t be avoided with a building of that splendor. The visitors seemed to come from every nation and religion. My hope is that somehow the cathedral would be able to draw those who visit into the hope of Christ.
-Zach Ashenfelter