Many preachers, while they do not ignore the cross, dim or obscure it
by eliminating from it the element of redemption. But however obscured,
it will emerge in human life, for the cross is the center of faith.
One of the most magnificent ecclesiastical structures in the
world is the mosque of Hagia Sophia, or “Holy Wisdom,” commonly
known in our language as St. Sophia. This was originally the
famous temple erected by Constantine in 325, as a Christian
church. But it was destroyed by fire in 404 in a riot connected
with the exile of Chrysostom. Rebuilt at once, in 530 it was
again burnt to the ground, and the present edifice was reared
by Justinian, and on Christmas day of 537 was dedicated as a
Christian cathedral. In 1453 it was converted into a mosque.
Jesus was put aside for Mohammed, the cross was supplanted by
the crescent, and the Bible was dethroned by the Koran. Yet tho
in many places the cross is wholly hidden under plaster with
fine filigree work, here and there it can be perceived. (Text.)
(633)