“I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12)

The Church of Saint Barbara is visible from afar. We can admire its beauty from various vantage points. The light that filters through the stained-glass windows into the church, and the light that flows out from it, highlight the slender stone architecture and its magnificent features.

Illuminated, the Church of Saint Barbara becomes a symbol of hope and faith that shines even in the darkest of nights, reminding us that God’s love never fades.

The stonemasons, architects, and artists who built this church over the centuries sought to create a fixed point, easily spotted from a distance, inviting all to enter the house of a loving God with humility and joy.

Each of us needs fixed points in our lives, places we can return to when we seek peace, comfort, or pause. The Church of Saint Barbara has stood as one such point for over six hundred years, its glow showing the way to its heart. The light of this church is a challenge for us all: to be a light for others, in our daily decisions, in our relationships, and in our work. We may not always be perfect, but we can show others that even in the darkest moments, a glimmer of light can always be found.

“If anyone wants to come after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me.” (Matthew 16:24)

The image of dancers carrying the figure of Saint Barbara in their arms is a beautiful reminder of the important values this saint carried in her loving heart. She was a courageous young woman, willing to sacrifice herself for the ideals she believed in. 

In Christian tradition, Saint Barbara is a symbol of unwavering faith. She experienced her love for God within a community that gave her strength to endure the trials of life. The young women carrying her figure with reverence and grace show that we bear our crosses together, in mutual support and unity. 

Their dance depicts the movement of the human soul as it rises and yearns for hope and love. The gesture of lifting Saint Barbara also symbolises the relinquishing of our worries, tiredness, and fears. It is a reminder that when we bear our burdens together with others, they become lighter. 

Saint Barbara is the patron saint of all who work in difficult and dangerous settings. When the miners of Kutná Hora descended deep into the shafts, far from their loved ones, their lips trembled with the prayer “Sancta Barbara, ora pro nobis” – intercede for us, that we may return from our hard labour to rejoice and dance once more with those we hold dear. 

“And the smoke of the incense, with the prayers of the saints, rose before God from the hand of the angel.” (Revelation 8:4)

The smoke of incense wafting upwards reminds us of our thoughts and hopes, which can rise above the burdens of our everyday lives. In a hectic world, the silence of the church is a place where we can find peace. To pause is to make space for that which calls within us for peace and reconciliation. 

The fragrance of the incense fills the church and reaches deep within us. It recalls our desires, petitions, and gratitude, which ascend to God. Mass in Saint Barbara’s Church offers a time for inner stillness, a moment to rediscover balance and peace within ourselves and with others. 

 Deep contemplation is etched on the face of every acolyte watching this sacred act with reverence and focus. In this moment, heaven touches earth, and perhaps even the smallest among us sense the beauty and grandeur of the moment. The fragrance of incense mingles with the silence of the Gothic space, permeating the stone walls, symbolising the path that draws us upwards. 
It is a moment to breathe, to let go of our worries, and to open ourselves to new challenges. The silence of the church makes room for thoughts that are muted in the rush of ordinary life. To know how to pause is to know how to truly live and embark on a meaningful path.

“Let the children come to me; do not stop them, for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs.” (Mark 10:14) 

Solemn moments give us the opportunity to experience being close to one another and the beauty of communion. Children remind us that true joy springs from simply sharing the moment, from listening to others, and from being open to love and goodness.

The sight of children dressed in their Sunday best as they glide into the Church of Saint Barbara for the service gives us hope that they will love this church their whole lives. In worship, children can discover the beauty of themselves, others, and of God Himself. A child’s heart is sensitive to spiritual impulses, and through its purity, it often uncovers wisdom that will guide them throughout their life. 

When children gather for a festive occasion in beautiful attire, it reflects not only their external beauty, but also how unique and exceptional they are. It is wondrous to discover and nurture this heavenly gift in children, preparing them for a life that is a work of art.  In children, we admire their openness and trust, which inspire us adults, too, to adopt a humbler view of life. They often become the teachers of our lives. Only in a true relationship of love, even with the littlest among us, can we find a way to transform both ourselves and the world around us.

“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” (John 1:5) 

The view from the Church of Saint Barbara is breathtaking. The sun slowly rises above the horizon, its rays painting the sky in hues of gold and fire. This magnificent sunrise reminds us of a new beginning, a promise of hope and joy that comes with each morning. 

Winding below the church are the quiet streets of Kutná Hora, their lamps still slowly fading. These points of light in the darkness are a reminder that, even in the darkest moments, there is hope that shows us the way. 

The Church of Saint James, standing resolutely in the heart of the town like a beacon, gives us direction and reminds us of the stability and solid values that will sustain us through life’s hardships. 

The view from the Church of Barbara offers us a different perspective on life. From above, we see connections, interwoven paths, and beauty that we might overlook in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The church was positioned above the town to protect and uplift its inhabitants.  It raises our gaze, inspiring us to better ourselves and awakening the desire to create something beautiful. Each of us can bring a little light into the world – with a kind word, the courage to forgive, or the effort to craft something meaningful and good.

“And now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; and the greatest of these is love.” (1 Corinthians 13:13) 

People lean towards the flames and light the candles with tenderness and reverence. Each candle carries a personal story, a memory of a loved one, a silent wish, or a plea for strength in a difficult moment. In a world full of uncertainties, we are never alone. 

The mirror reflects the light of the candles, and our faces, upwards. This reflection symbolically joins heaven and earth, just as our prayers, memories, and wishes rise to our departed ancestors. 

Each candle is a symbol of light that brightens the darkness. By lighting a candle, we ignite not only the flame of wax, but also the fire within our hearts – the fire of memories, love, and hope. This light then shines in our eyes, becoming a visible sign that goodness and love have a place in this world. To light a candle is to choose to be a bearer of hope even through hardship.

In the Church of Saint Barbara, this fellowship manifests not only in prayer, but also in the very presence of the people. They have come to share both the weight and joy of their lives. Together, we believe that Christ, who rose from the dead, shows us the way with His light – a path on which the light of hope and love never fades.

“Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16)

The lit lamp in the miner’s hand represents more than just light in the darkness of the mines. The miners knew that the lives of their families and the whole town depended on their work. The lamp symbolises the hope that, even from the depths and darkness, a way out can be found.

In our own lives, we encounter darkness – periods of doubt, fear, or difficult decisions. It is in these moments that it is important to cling to the light. For miners, their patron saint and protector, Saint Barbara, was the light. Her story reminds us that no darkness is so deep that the light of hope cannot shine through. Her love still shines today, while her father and those who took her life are buried forever in oblivion.

Her beam of light can be manifested in a kind word, a hand extended in help, or simply the courage to take another step forward. Just as the miners trusted their lamp in the darkness, we too can trust that every darkness will eventually pass, and the beacon of hope will appear, shining through our lives like the sun, igniting love in each of us.

“The heavens are telling the glory of God, and the firmament proclaims his handiwork.” (Psalm 19:1)

The vaulted ceiling of the Church of Saint Barbara is a fascinating testament to the fusion of human skill and spiritual direction. Its intricate pattern, formed by ribbed arches, resembles flowers unfolding towards the heavens, as though the very stonework yearns to touch eternity.

Just as the individual arcs of the vault come together to form a complex and harmonious whole, so too our lives are made up of countless moments, decisions, and relationships. Each of these elements holds its own meaning, and together they create a solid structure that supports us in times of trial. It is in these moments that we realise how crucial it is to have firm values that offer us stability and assurance.

The vault also invites us to lift our gaze upwards. Occasionally, we lose sight of the beauty surrounding us. We can choose to discover the beauty of nature, art, or human kindness. To raise one’s head is not only to find something beautiful, but also to gain a new perspective, to realise that we are part of something greater, and to decide to make our lives a work of art.

“Let all that you do be done in love.” (1 Corinthians 16:14)

The gently converging arches of the Church of Saint Barbara evoke the richness and diversity of human life. Each of these ribs follows its own direction, with unique lines and patterns. Yet all meet at a single point, uniting in perfect harmony.

So too, we as people, despite our diverging opinions, life paths, or talents, can find a common direction in values such as love, understanding, and mutual respect.

The stained-glass windows might also be seen as a symbol of our lives. The glass itself, when not illuminated, appears dark and dull. But when a ray of sunlight shines through, the colours come to life, and the church is filled with radiant beauty. Similarly, our lives may sometimes resemble a grey, mundane mosaic, full of worries and duties. Yet, even in these moments, a small ray of joy, love, or hope can transform everything.

Each of us is like a piece of stained glass. On its own, it may not seem remarkable, but put it together with other pieces and it forms a magnificent whole in which each plays a unique role. It is kindness, friendship, and understanding that bring this beauty to life.

“But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart.” (Luke 2:19)

The enthroned Madonna is the oldest piece of art in the Church of Saint Barbara. Her six centuries of presence remind us of the maternal love she poured with all her heart into the life of the infant Jesus, and, at the same time, she embraces each of us.

The statue of the Virgin Mary would leave the church on Marian feast days or in times of danger and threat to the town. In these moments, the miners would come together to carry the Blessed Virgin Mary in procession through the town, seeking her maternal care.

The child in Mary’s arms is a reminder that maternal love demands tenderness and affection. In our everyday lives, we are invited, just like Mary, to protect and care for those we love, tending to them with selfless perseverance and love. Everyone longs to experience true maternal love, where they feel cherished and safe.

Just as the Madonna holds Jesus in her arms, we, too, are called to discover and protect what is beautiful and precious in our lives, and to embrace those who need our love and closeness.

“You shall love your neighbour as yourself.” (Mark 12:31)

Sunlit stained-glass windows illuminate not only the ancient frescoes, but also awaken memories of those who came before us. Many have stood here before us, their hands and hearts touching this sacred place.

To stop by at the Church of Saint Barbara is not only to perceive its beauty, but also to immerse oneself in the flow of time. We, too, are part of this unending human story. Our lives form a path that links past and future. Yet the most important realisation is the beauty of the present moment – this fleeting gift that allows us to rejoice, to forgive, and to love.

Just as an artist layers paint upon paint to create a fresco, so we build our lives from small decisions, encounters, and actions. The art within this church teaches us that beauty does not emerge all at once, but unfolds slowly, with patience and faith, knowing that every brushstroke, every stone, and every moment carries meaning.

The ancient Gothic frescoes remind us that each of us is part of something far greater. Though we may not immediately see the full picture, each of us contributes to the grand mosaic of human stories, which, piece by piece, forms a whole that transcends the boundaries of our own lives.

“No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” (John 15:13)

The placing of the Kutná Hora replica of the Stará Boleslav Palladium upon the altar of St Wenceslas is a symbolic act that draws us back to the roots of our history, culture, and faith. This image reminds us that we are part of a long line of generations that have worshipped God before us.

The careful, deliberate act of setting the Palladium on the altar reminds us that preserving tradition is not the task of the individual alone, but of the entire community. As my colleague and I placed this precious image in its place of honour, I became aware of the profound importance of mutual support and cooperation. We all need one another in our day-to-day lives.

In the rush of modern life, it is all too easy to overlook the value of shared moments. Yet it is precisely these moments that enrich us and lend meaning to our days.

Every relationship requires care and a willingness to invest time and energy. It is important not only to offer help, but also to accept it with grace. This balance of giving and receiving lies at the heart of all healthy human relationships. Just as the Church of Saint Barbara must be tended with loving care, so too must we cherish and nurture our relationships.

For centuries, the Palladium of the Czech Lands has been passed down from one generation to the next. Even today, it calls upon us to pass on the best of what we bear within ourselves – faith, hope, and love.