The First Presbyterian Church of Greensboro is a downtown landmark. Over the last two years, we have shown grander views of this beautiful structure, including this inside view. The above photo, taken several months ago, shows the missing spire on the left. The missing section disturbs the symmetry of this beautiful house of worship. Perhaps the congregation has plans to replace this section of the roof. Perhaps, an interesting story is behind the absence of this section. Even better would be if it has already been replaced. However, the deeper message is that everything can't be perfect, we can't have everything the way we want it, exactly when we want it. Also, communities, from congregations to whole cities, can work together to make things better for everyone.
Today, Greensboro Daily Photo begins Year 3 of bringing you a photo a day of Greensboro. We usually shy away from controversy and issues that tend to polarize communities. However, perhaps we can begin to do a little advocacy for things that will enhance Greensboro. Perhaps next time we drive by First Pres., the spire will have been replaced. Spires point to heaven. In the Gothic style, multiple spires evoke strongholds....military fortresses. Perhaps, with a little nudging, we can inSPIRE the Presbyterians to replace this spire. If you are involved in this effort, please provide details in the comment line below.
Congratulations on your anniversary!
Posted by: RamblingRound | Sunday, January 02, 2011 at 10:13 AM
Hi Jan...not sure if you'll be able to get the spire replaced. I think I heard somewhere that it "expired"!
Have a wonderful New Year! I'll look forward to seeing many more creative photos from Greensboro in 2011!
Posted by: Jacob | Sunday, January 02, 2011 at 01:44 PM
The first thought of me, the outsider: the spire was destroyed in "Back to the Future" first episode... ah, it was clock.
The word "perfectness" frightens me so strongly.
Happy Anniversary, I like to read and watch you, dear blog.
Posted by: Irina | Sunday, January 02, 2011 at 03:22 PM
Congratulations on Year Three!
WOO HOO!
When «Louis» lived in France, he noticed that it wasn't uncommon for churches to have missing spires or steeples. The cathedral at Troyes is one. In Paris , St.Eustache (where the funeral for Mozart's mother was held) and St. Sulpice (of Da Vinci Code notoriety) are two more. «Louis» agrees with you - the parish needs to be inSPIREd to replace it!
;-D
Posted by: Louis la Vache | Sunday, January 02, 2011 at 08:36 PM
Dear All:
We've learned that First Pres. must have taken its lesson from France (a la Louis la Vache above). A spire is not missing. What is missing is a chimney that is under repair. A spire has never been on that corner.
We've also learned that the roof is in need of some slate repair. May I encourage First Pres. to start a "click here to contribute to the roof repair" button on their website. If we are lucky, people will come from miles around to help with this repair. Buildings this beautiful don't get built everyday! They could even post the names of those who contributed!
After all, God's work needs to be on a solid foundation and to have a roof over its head.
Posted by: Greensboro Daily Photo | Sunday, January 02, 2011 at 09:31 PM
It is a chimney to exhaust the boiler under the sanctuary. Neil Dunnavant, Associate Pastor
Posted by: Neil Dunnavant | Monday, January 03, 2011 at 01:35 PM
As a Greensboro native who is now in the Charlotte area, I'm delighted to stumble upon your blog of photos showing my hometown! Each time I come home to visit my folks, there is something new to discover.
Posted by: Jennifer Hudson Taylor | Friday, January 07, 2011 at 08:06 PM
I am really appreciating GDP for noticing little quirks about Greensboro I don't notice. Like the missing chimney-spire on 1st Presbyterian. Happy 3rd Birthday and thank you for documenting these days in our fair city.
Posted by: Emily | Sunday, January 09, 2011 at 12:27 AM