"Sow, sow
everywhere, even on rock. You never know, it might come up.”
- Fr. Sophrony of Essex
- Fr. Sophrony of Essex
When every life matters, how can the Church proclaim the good news of
Jesus Christ where it counts: where people are? How can she reach the emerging
generation? As the worthy work of wrestling with this question continues,
perhaps in the meantime a mere presence might be worthwhile. Holy Theophany
parish in Colorado Springs has created such a presence by transforming a
cast-off structure into a stunning place of prayer that can be brought to
people who would not otherwise step foot in an Orthodox Church.
In the mountains near Colorado Springs a tiny coffee kiosk on wheels had
come to the end of its coffee shop life and was for sale on the side the
highway. Holy Theophany’s Fr. Anthony Karbo noticed it was eight-sided, made of
stone and timber, and had a copper roof. It reminded him of the roadside
chapels in Greece, and therein imagined a new life for this little kiosk. He
sought help from Silouan Alberts and artist Michael Greer, of Greer Studios.
Together they tore down a coffee shop and after some hard work unveiled a
mobile Orthodox chapel.
The idea to be present at public gatherings where Orthodoxy might be an
exotic mystery to most passersby led to the creation of this “tiny-house”
Orthodox temple on wheels. The chapel debuted in the public square over Memorial
Day weekend, 2017, and it was quite the attraction. Priests and faithful of
Holy Theophany stood amongst the throng at a huge street fair called “Territory
Days” to interact with people and answer questions. The visual draw of the
glistening gold dome set in the middle of Colorado Avenue could be seen from
blocks away.
The oft repeated invitation, “You’re welcome to go inside and take a
look!,” was for people of all ages to enter into the experience of God in
Orthodox sacred space. Children, with their curiosity and fearlessness, ran
right up the stairs, reminiscent of the Theotokos’ Entrance in the Temple
centuries ago. Adults were more hesitant. Inside visitors could venerate icons
or light a candle. 
Many were content to simply experience the surroundings in
silence while enjoying the pleasant smell of incense and the soft chant playing
in the background. Many stopped to talk. Some asked questions. Several
commented on the excellent workmanship. Although we may never know the
spiritual impact, the inaugural appearance of the mobile chapel in the
marketplace appeared to be a great success. May she continue to shine a light
for faith, reverence, and the fear of God for many years.
Source: http://dowoca.org/news_170601_1.html
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