THE WINDOWS OF FAITH...a series of etched windows form a screen between the narthex and sanctuary. As one enters, these windows carry two themes: The first is....
COME UNTO ME... is the invitation of the Lord to all. It is declared through the cross, which is central in all of the windows plus the welcoming
hands of the Master extended to those approaching the places of worship and study.
THE LORD'S SUPPER - the second window denotes we can approach Him in fellowship and service through the Holy Sacrament. This is declared by the symbols of chalice, broken loaf, and cross. Also included are wheat and grapes, two other Eucharistic symbols
THE WORD - the third window portrays the open book, the symbol for the Word of God. It indicates the Good News is available to all of the people of the earth, Jew and Gentile alike. The initial O.T. and N.T. refer to the Old and New Testaments.
THE TEN COMMANDMENTS - the stone tablets of the law represent the O.T. message and promise of Salvation, which is fulfilled in the N. T. John 13:12, "A new commandment I give unto you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another.
CHRISTIAN KNOWLEDGE - two symbols suggest we come to Him through knowledge, knowing His will and love; finding the truth. These symbols are the scroll, an early form of the WORD and the lighted lamp, an ancient symbol of learning.
The second series of five designs are found on the other side of the center aisle. These carry the major theme from Christ's command: "Go Ye Into The World". He invites us to come to Him and then depart as disciples in service.
GO YE INTO THE WORLD - this window is found to the right as one leaves the sanctuary. This design includes the cross, representing Christ; and the world to which He came and to which He sends us to reveal the truth and way. Twelve small crosses represent the apostles who went out into the world to spread the word and love of God.
BAPTISM - We are to go as part of His Family, accepted by the Father through Baptism. The traditional symbols of the descending dove, the Spirit and the water of Baptism are used along with the cross that represents Christ, who revealed the depth of God's love.
The following three windows carry the theme: We are to go in Faith, Hope, and Love.
FAITH - faith is represented by the parable of the mustard seed. "if you have faith like a mustard seed." Luke 17:5 and Mark 4:30
HOPE - the anchor serves as the symbol of Hope since our Lord is the anchor of the soul and the Hope of Salvation.
LOVE - the cross and heart are used along with the intertwined wedding bands, representing love and we follow the Bride of God in our responsible love relationships one with another and with the eternal One.
The etched door panels to the chapel area contain the three crosses on Calvary. The center door panel contained the Wesley Coat of Arms. The two chapel windows are constructed of faceted glass. In rich warm colors they refer us to two of Jesus' parables.
THE VINE - we are the branches depending upon Him for our strength and life, yet bearing fruit for Him.
THE LIVING WATERS - thirsty and needy, we may find our freshment from Him who is the Living Waters.
The Upper Windows in the canopy skylight area give us a feeling of the over arching love of God. The Cross and Flame on the exterior of the Chancel Area are the major symbols of United Methodism's response to the Gospel and the World. Empowered we go and serve and live in love.
Thank you for viewing The Windows of Faith.
