Sir Christopher Wren, one of the world's most famous architects, was responsible for the design of over fifty churches in a career spanning the late 1600's. But it was the design of Windsor Town Hall near London in 1689 that is the most interesting.
Asked by the city fathers to design the town hall the famous church architect designed an interior ceiling supported by pillars.
The local officials who knew little about architecture upon inspection announced the pillars did not seem sufficient support for the massive ceiling. Wren argued with them and insisted the massive pillars would support the ceiling. The inspectors disagreed and insisted that additional columns be constructed.
Finally, Wren conceded and designed additional pillars. What the inspectors did not know was that the pillars Wren designed when constructed did not reach all the way to the ceiling. They were 1 inch short of reaching the ceiling.
From the floor it appeared the newly constructed reached all the way to the ceiling but it was an illusion. They supported nothing, they were an illusion.
The inspectors came in and were satisfied their additional requirements had been met. Wren knew nothing had changed in his original design. The town fathers were satisfied.
I am not sure what this story means, but I am sure there are lots of applications if you think about it.
Wren designed beautiful sanctuaries and cathedrals across Europe. When he died his son etched these words on his tombstone.
Lector, Si Monumentum, Requiris, Circumspice.
Reader, If You Seek His Memorial-Look Around You
What memorials are we leaving to those who will follow us? After we are gone, will others be able to look around and see evidence of our faithfulness?
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