An Unexpected Chapel

This morning I walked across this little island called Manhattan.  Due east of the flat where I am staying is the United Nations Building.  Like many public buildings these days, there were metal detectors and no liquids allowed inside.  So, I walked the block to finish my bottled water.  Across the street there was a place called "The Church Center."  The front doors said, "entry to the chapel."  Unfortunately, the doors were locked.  So I am left to ponder what the chapel of the Church Center might look like.

Having finished the bottled water, I returned to the United Nations Building.  Inside there was a photographic display of people with AIDS in nine nations around the world.  Downstairs I enjoyed a trip through the gift shop and perusing the book store (I have yet to meet a bookstore I didn't enjoy!) 

The real suprise, however, was back at the entry level.  There at the U.N. is a little chapel.  It was created in the 1960's as a quiet space where people can meditate.  The room is dimly lit with bare white walls along the sides and a mosaic on the front wall.  Other than the chairs where visitors can sit, the only other object is a large rock, serving as the focal point and altar, in the center of the room. 

I sat in one of the chairs and began to think about this particular chapel.  I thought of those who might have sat in that same space...persons of all nations, people of many religions, people of all languages. 

I wanted to add my voice to the petitions spoken in that sacred space by praying for peace in our world.  I thought of refugees who have been displaced from their homeland because of wars.  I thought of images of young boys carrying rifles larger than themselves.  I thought of specific places where violence and revenge continue to be common practices. 

I enjoyed the visit to the United Nations and seeing the flags of the countries of the world flying together in one place.  But most of all, I appreciated the chapel set aside where people from around the world can lift their voice in the hopes for a more peaceful world. 

Peace to you, my friends.