The New Parish Hall

Two disciples invited their teacher to accompany them as they visited a brand new parish church built in the wealthy section of a nearby city. The large, gleaming stone structure had cost six million dollars and had taken over two years to build.

The disciples spoke in hushed voices of awe as they walked down the long main aisle, viewing the beautiful new oak pews, the impressive stone altar, the carved sanctuary furniture and large pulpit. The teacher silently gazed around at the church’s artworks and its glowing stained glass windows. After spending a few minutes in prayer, the three left the church and began walking home. They walked in silence until the disciples, eager for the teacher’s impression of the new church, asked, "Wasn’t that a beautiful church?"

"Yes."

"Teacher, what about it impressed you the most?"

"That it’s completely finished! Isn’t that sad?"

– Anonymous

February 18, 2007