Of the four churches we visited in Capella, all contained an ethereal quality - a quality reminiscent of every church in existence. Even the most devout atheist feels something when entering these spaces, whether it is the softness of the light, the contemplative quietness or the presence of an “other”. Despite personal beliefs, it is possible to discern feelings of love and care from these consecrated spaces.
It was the small details that caught our attention – a bible resting next to a circle of chairs, flowers surrounding a statue of Mary and a small rosary hanging from a hook. While bringing attention to the loneliness of country churches, these details also highlight the way the congregation adheres to their faith – a metaphor for the fighting spirit of Capella.
If there is one good person left in the world then God, in some form, must exist. This is the case for Capella – if there is one person left in the town, then the town still exists. Despite the dust and cobwebs making a home in unused corners of the churches, its heart is defiant and tended to by a number of strong characters.
In collaboration with Anna Harth
