Stepping inside this 18th Century church is like walking through a time portal. I almost felt the…read moreneed to check my clothing to see if I were wearing garments from that period! THE EXPERIENCE Although my time was brief here in Highlands, North Carolina, I was highly impacted by the vast beauty in the simplicity of this mountain town. I truly could go on and on about my amazement while walking the city's main street. IF anyone were paying attention to me at all, I suspect my animated behavior must have looked similar to a child that lived in a rural countryside being taken to a place like New York City for the first time. No, I'm not saying this town is like NYC, I'm only saying it gave me a sense of awe and wonder from its understated beauty. I've mentioned in my previous reviews of this area that I was driving through the city and suddenly felt the need to park my car and walk. One reason was because I was certain I was going to run someone over as my eyes tried to soak in all the details of the structures and sights. But the main reason I stopped for a visit was because of this church. Something about it just seemed to beacon to me and I wanted a more up close and personal view. Knowing that many catholic churches leave their entrances open, I decided to test the front doors that date back to 1896. The heavy, thick, well-crafted wood opened with ease into a tiny vestibule with stained glass windows! Another set of wooden doors welcomed me into the historic sanctuary. There were no lights on, so the space had a feeling of solitude and sobering peace. The floors were well aware of my presence as they sang out with every step, no matter how delicately I tried to walk. It was easy to picture a congregation of old gathering here for worship. Filling each pew row according to family, dressed in their Sunday best with children leaning against their parents as they sing out hymnals while being led by the church pianist. Light filtered through the multiple stained glass windows giving the space a soft yet eerie glow. I was mesmerized by the space. FINAL THOUGHTS Eventually I broke from my spell and walked over to the late addition to the original church, where a larger sanctuary is now in use. The church secretary gave me a short impromptu tour and information about the town, including where I could get a good meal. Then I noticed a bulletin board where the church was highlighting work they were doing in Haiti. I stopped to touch each of the photographs as I thought fondly of my recent trip to Haiti, the people and children I met, as well as the destruction that happened two months after my visit when Hurricane Matthew crossed the island. I can't explain it, but I needed to see that others were also concerned for Haiti. In a way, it lifted my spirits for the children of the coastal town we visited. I was told that tiny town (La Croix) was severely damaged. Yet here, in the mountains of North Carolina, I share a bond with others who desire great things for Haiti and the children currently living in poverty like I've never witnessed. I'm so very happy I followed my inner voice and stopped. May this church continue to do great things for others outside of their own community. No wonder this church has stood for so long! 2016/123