For those who might not feel connected to their religion, but want to have a spiritual connection with others, the Peace Dome just may be the solution.
Located on the grounds of the non-denominational Center of Light Spirituality Center on Baldwin Road, the geodesic dome is built on a hill surrounded by perennial gardens and wildflowers, and can be used for events like weddings, Yoga and meditation classes as well as the center’s Sunday gatherings.
Its 20-ft. ceiling and large15-ft. by 20-ft. bay window overlooking wetlands is a quiet haven that provides a peaceful setting where one’s spirit can find inner peace.
Reverends Edward and Annette Jones are pastors at the center and oversaw the building of the dome in 2003.
‘We wanted something bigger and something that would make people feel more like they were out in nature and more connected,? Annette said.
The couple ordered the dome from an internet site.
It took most of the summer to create with the help of many center members and friends.
A wood burning stove inside the dome provides heat during winter, while a special coating on the dome’s cover keeps the heat from escaping.
During the summer months the side panels can be rolled up, revealing a screen to enjoy the surrounding nature even more.
The dome can seat 80 people comfortably and needs no sound system because of its dynamic acoustics.
Because of the unique, circulating design the dome offers, Edward said it only takes a 60 watt light bulb to light the whole dome inside.
The geodesic dome was created in the late 1940s by R. Buckminster Fuller as a more energy efficient and economically available means of housing.
Edward said geodesic domes are becoming very popular in Australia because they’re hurricane proof.
He explained that when a wind force travels up the side of the dome an even larger g-force on top of it pushes the dome down, keeping it stable to the ground.
‘Now that we’re in a time right now where energy efficiency is the big watch word…I think we’ll see a lot more geodesic domes on the horizon,? Annette said.
Besides offering various classes and workshops in the dome, the center also focuses on Native American activities.
They provide a medicine wheel, sweat lodge and also perform full moon drummings once a month.
The couple said the remark they constantly hear from their members about the dome and the center is they feel like they’re in ‘a different world.?
‘It really is the best of both worlds,? Annette said.?
If you’d like to check out the Peace Dome, stop by the center’s open house on Saturday, July 22 from 11 a.m.- 4p.m., or visit their website at www.centeroflight.us.