People are like stained-glass windows...

They sparkle and shine when the sun is out, but when the darkness sets in, their true beauty is revealed only if there is a light from within. (Elisabeth Kubler-Ross quotes)

It was our day off today (well, only a quick run to Carlisle this morning) so we did Christmas shopping and had a wander round the Cathedral as it was looking very pretty from outside.

I like looking at old buildings, they can tell so many stories; bits broken off statues and windows filled in, or even the remnants of other parts of buildings long gone etched into the stones.

Religious buildings are, as Jane said, awesome - in the proper sense of the word. They are made to inspire awe; to remind us of the power and might of the church. From outside, Carlisle Cathedral does not look all that special, but inside, WOW! Even though I am not a religious person I appreciate the beauty and wonder of the church.

AND there was a school practising for a carol service and they sang Gaudette. Wonderful!!!

This looks better bigger.