Hey, why do churches have steeples? Is that a European or Roman influence? Interesting it’s a cross and not the open tomb on top.
Johnny E.
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Hi, Johnny.
All that I can find is that it was an old European architectural style meant either to draw one’s thoughts toward heaven, or to impress. Perhaps both. Steeples can be useful for bell-ringing (originally to ward off demons) or as a place to put a big clock.
In fine medieval churches, the steeples were often majestic, a reminder to all of the Church’s wealth and political power. In this country, to build such steeples and towers as were part of European churches was impossible for the colonists and those who followed, and so, wood was used as a substitute, with some sort of metal plating for richer congregations.
The cross on top of Christian steeples is a declaration to all of what Christians would do to the real Jesus if he were here today, and of what they will do to anyone who dares to be like him. That is why I tell God’s people to draw close to God, to avoid ministers who wear tall, pointy hats, and to avoid buildings topped with a cross on a tall, pointy steeple.
Thanks for asking.
Pastor John