CHURCH HISTORY
STAINED GLASS WINDOWS
By Wanda Glover, Church Historian
In our church we have four sets of stained glass windows.
I suggest you take a few minutes to see, study and appreciate
these beautiful works of art.
Each tells its’ own story.
Located in the back of the sanctuary, high on the east wall (balcony
level), is our largest stained-glass window.
Its five panels representing the five wounds of Christ.
We haven’t been able to learn any more of its history.
If you have knowledge or information about it please let me
know.
On the ground floor, just beneath the large stained-glass window,
are the “Trinity” windows, the Creator, Christ and Holy Spirit.
These windows were given to the church by Harry Amick and
family in 1952. Harry
and Emma Amick were the first couple married in the church after it
wascompleted in 1923.
The detailed description, which is too long to include here, will be
found on the wall beside the windows.
As you ascend the stairs, heading up to Booth Hall, you will see
three beautiful panels of stained glass.
One panel depicts a cross while the other two depict Iris
flowers. The artistic glass- work was created by former member, John
Schmidt, in memory of his loving wife, Leota, who loved flowers. The
flower symbolism associated with the iris is, faith, cherished
friendship, promise in love, and wisdom. Irises were used in Mary’s
Garden, the blade-shaped foliage denotes the sorrows which 'pierced
her heart.'
The room, which is presently designated as Bethel Chapel, was
originally known as the “Tea Room” for many years.
Later it became the “Youth Room” and is now the “Bethel
Chapel” named in honor of Bethel Church and its members. It was
dedicated, in their memory, after Bethel merged with First United
Methodist Church. The
chapel is graced by two large, wonderful stained glass windows on
the north wall.
Scott
Grant, a young member of our congregation, was an acolyte for six
years. He earned his
Boy Scout “God and Country” merit badge by working in the church.
He died as a result of an accident in 1987.
You will observe in the first window two doves appear as a
young acolyte lights the worship candles.
The second window picks up the theme of light and translates
the star of service to the cross of promise as Scott ascends into
heaven.
Our church is fortunate to have such beautiful and treasured works
of art. We hope you
enjoy their beauty.