From our discussion on architecture and place, I have been musing over my recent trip to Ireland. Van der Leeuw said, "Whatever lies outside offers no security. It is surrendered to all powers. It is thus important that the house and the city have the proper locations." I spent most of my time in Ireland staying at a Missions Base run by an organization named YWAM. The property that they inherited was beautiful; it was set on the edge of a Lough, surrounded by mountains. The building on the property was large, able to house over fifty people comfortably. It was spacious and had many windows, allowing the sunlight to creep in over the mountains.
The place itself was previously the site of a reconciliation ministry that brought Protestants and Catholics from both sides of the conflict together for reconciliation and refreshing from God. Its place on the border is a proper location, as many on both sides have never been to the other side. The border city provides a proper place for the ministry of reconciliation, as it seems approachable to both sides. It is non-threatening and geographically can be perceived as a "middle ground." Additionally, the atmosphere of mountains and water provides a peaceful place for reconciliation. Conflicted people can feel at rest and peace in this location, and I feel that it accurately expresses the idea that Van der Leeuw puts forth in the quote above. This place indeed is a proper location for reconciliation.
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