Universalis

Friday 16 October 2009

Elgin Cathedral - 5

One of the joys of Elgin Cathedral is the fact that it is still possible to climb to the top of the North West Tower. Here is the view!



There are some lovely buildings in the shadow of the Cathedral - totally in keeping with the medieval ruin.

City of God, how broad and far
outspread thy walls sublime!
The true thy chartered freemen are
of every age and clime.

One holy Church, one army strong;
one steadfast, high intent;
one working band, one harvest song,
one King omnipotent.

How purely hath thy speech come down
from man's primeval youth!
How grandly hath thine empire grown
of freedom, love and truth!

How gleam thy watch fires through the night
with never fainting ray!
How rise thy towers, serene and bright,
to meet the dawning day!

In vain the surge's angry shock,
in vain the drifting sands;
unharmed upon the eternal Rock
the eternal City stands.

2 comments:

John said...

I live in USA and have never been to the UK, but like so many English-speaking Catholics are interested in the long history of the Church in England.

Your pictures are great ways for this American to visit the UK. Thank you.

Peter Simpson said...

Thanks for the comment - perhaps you will visit the UK one of these days! I shall make sure that I do further posts on historical ecclesiastical buildings during the months ahead.