St. Xavier was a lot more decorated than the New Mallery Abbey. It was even more so decorated than usual because of it being the Christmas season. This Church not only provided itself as a place of worship but also a place to help teach the history of the Church. This was seen in all of the murals on the walls and ceiling of the Church, as well as the stain glass windows and the wood carvings. This was very different from the Abbey. The monks there have dedicated themselves to great simplicity which is reflected in the way their Monastery is decorated. Everything was beautiful, but it was all so simple. All of the Church was beige, browns, and greys. It seems bare, but with the lighting and all of the different tones of the stones and wood, it was beautiful. There were windows in every room that helped to create more lighting and beauty.
If I had to explain the Basilica to someone who was unfamiliar with Christianity, I would begin with explaining the many decorations and paintings. I would explain what the alter was used for as well as talk about what happens on that alter at every mass. I would also point out that although the Monastery was not as decorated, it too has an alter that is used for mass. I would talk to the person about how Jesus is present in both of these Churches, and that He is in the Tabernacle. These things are what make a Church. The many decorations (or lack there of) add to the splendor, but they do not make the Church complete like Jesus does.
I liked the Abbey best because I enjoy more simplicity especially when I go somewhere to worship. The Basilica was beautiful, and I enjoyed going to mass there a few weeks ago, but it was the Abbey that lent itself to being more of the style I am drawn to. When I went into the Church at the Monastery, I really felt like I was in the presence of God in the way that I am used to. It was also beautiful to see the monks doing their afternoon prayers. They enjoy their lives of simplicity and dedication to God so much, and it was refreshing to see a whole community that does that.
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