I agree to a degree. In the "old days" the huge cathedrals were used for many things, not just as a place to worship.  It represented the power of the church, the power of the church and state in many countries, the dominance of religion in the lives of the people, employment of many people over many generations, and a center of life  for the people of those towns and villages.  Having a tiny, plain chapel was probably not what anyone (people, church or state) wanted or needed then.  The Protestant Reformation drastically changed that concept with a return to basics, but an argument could be made that it was just a reflection of changing values propelled by the Renaissance.  Having said all that,  there is something to be said for the powerful invocation of majesty and awe that these edifices provide.  Think "St. Peter's in Rome."  But "Ruin and perdition"? Come now!  Buildings have nothing to do with that! A disconnect between leadership and people do, both in faith and in politics.