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Something Understood

Religion & Ethics

Ethical and religious discussion that examines some of the larger questions of life

Ethical and religious discussion that examines some of the larger questions of life, taking a spiritual theme and exploring it through music, prose and poetry

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Something Understood: Sermons in Stone

Walking in Ireland and Spain - Philippines

14/08/2016

Sermons in Stone

BBC Radio 4 - Something Understood, Sermons in Stone

John McCarthy explores the power of sacred architecture through music, prose and poetry.

John McCarthy explores the power of sacred buildings, marvelling at the architect's ability to foster a sense of awe and a unique feeling of stillness and peace.

John McCarthy celebrates the power of sacred architecture and wonders what lessons can be learned from these buildings.

Whether it's a grand cathedral or a humble non-conformist chapel, the architects who design sacred spaces are able to create a unique sense of peace. John explains, "exploring religious spaces, whether a local parish church, a simple village mosque or exuberant Hindu temple and watching the faithful in private prayer, or sharing in a service, I've been moved by this atmosphere of spirituality. I've always been intrigued as to how this sense of the sanctified can be physically built."

In order to find out more, John visits St Paul's Cathedral with The Bishop of London Richard Chartres as his guide. He then walks a few miles to a very different sacred space - Brick Lane Mosque. The building that currently houses the Mosque has been a site of worship for over 200 years, having passed hands from the Huguenots to the Methodists and then on to East London's Jewish community before becoming a Mosque in 1970s. Celebrated architect Niall McLaughlin is on hand to unpick the layers of symbolism in the bricks and mortar and to reveal the secrets to designing a space that fosters stillness.

Readings include the amusing grumblings of Bishop Earle in the 17th Century and the work of the Cornish poet Nicholas Michell. Musical selections feature the St Paul's Cathedral Choir and The Carter Family.

Presenter: John McCarthy
Producer: Max O'Brien
A TBI Media production for BBC Radio 4.

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