We entered the chapel here.
Keble College Chapel was opened on St Mark’s Day (25 April) 1876. The College was founded in memory of John Keble, a Victorian clergyman who, with others in what became known as the Oxford Movement, had a profound impact on the Church of England in the mid 19th century, renewing and strengthening it in the catholic tradition. The architect was William Butterfield (1814-1900), a renowned exponent of the Gothic style. His masterpiece, the College Chapel, is perhaps the grandest ecclesiastical space in Oxford and the interior is decorated with colourful tiles, mosaics, and stained glass.
The organ, built by Kenneth Tickell, was installed in 2011. The Chapel’s resonant ‘cathedral-like’ acoustic is home to a lively and active music foundation in which the Chapel Choir plays a primary role.
I will save the mosaics and the famous Light of the World Painting for another post.
We saw so many beautiful old doors during our time in Oxford and beyond in September of 2022. When we were at the Ark in Kentucky in 2021 we picked up a brochure that talked about the Doors of the Bible.
On the back of that pamphlet it talked about The Door That Leads to Life.
What will you do with Jesus Christ? Your answer to that question has eternal consequences.
We are all guilty of sinning against our holy creator. Because he is holy, God must judge sin. Take an honest look at your life. Have you ever lied, stolen anything, disrespected your parents, or failed to honor God? If so, then you have broken God’s law and are a sinner in need of a Savior.
There was one door into the ark that saved Noah and his family from the flood. Similarly, there is only one door that can save us from eternal judgement. Jesus Christ is that door. The Bible states that now is the day of salvation. If you have not already done so, will you turn from your sins and call on the risen Lord Jesus to save you?
By faith, enter the only door that leads to eternal life today.
…gorgeous, but do you feel closer to God here or in nature?
Tom, I can feel close to God in small plain churches, in beautiful cathedrals, on a mountain top, in tulip fields, around the dinner table, in a hospitable room, while I’m mowing the lawn. None of those places are as meaningful for worship of God closely than a church small or large filled with others who love God and are worshipping Him in love and truth. God has promised to be with me no matter where I go.
The beauty of this cathedral is stunning and awe inspiring. Do they still hold regular church services there? Thank you for the words about “The Door That Leads to Life”.
When students are in attendance they do hold chapels and also have choirs sing, etc.
Such an incredibly beautiful chapel Ellen, thank you for sharing your photos, history, words. They are amazing!
While I know that God’s church, the Btide of Christ is so much more than any building made by man, still I am always awestruck that God gives a ma the capacity to imagine and design something so beautiful. Thank you for sharing.
Thanks for the inspiration and the beauty of this chapel!