The Symbolism of the Faceted Stained Glass Windows
The Star of Bethlehem
Beginning in the upper portion of the first window, a shaft of light leads to the Star of Bethlehem, which announces the birth of the Savior.
IHCOYC
The newborn Christ is indicated by the crib, while the bright light is a reflection of the power and the glory that followed him to earth. The staff indicates the humble shepherds who heard the joyful message. The IHC are the first Greek letters of IHCOYC, Jesus.
The Wise Men
The three crowns represent the wise men who came to worship the newborn Savior with their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
The Holy Baptism
Window two depicts Holy Baptism, one of the Means of Grace. A scallop shell is shown descending from heaven, recalling the words of Jesus' Baptism: "The Holy Spirit descended as a dove, and a voice came from heaven, 'You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased."
The Holy Trinity
The triangle indicates that Christ, who was baptized, is the second Person of the Holy Trinity.
The Word of God
The Book illustrates another Means of Grace - The Word of God.
The Last Supper
The Last Supper is represented by the cup and host, while the wheat and grapes are the natural ingredients which make up the earthly elements through which Christ gives us his body and blood.
The central window displays the hands of the Father reaching down from the top.
The Lamb, or Son of God, is shown shedding his blood into the cup for all people. The lower left symbol is Alpha and Omega, recalling Jesus' words: "I am the Alpha and Omega, who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty." (Revelation 1:8)
The Crown and the Orb
Against a radiant cross, the heavenly Crown and the Orb indicate the heaven to which He ascended from Earth.
The Phoenix
The lower symbol is that of a Phoenix, a mythical bird resembling an eagle. Consumed by fire, it rises out of the ashes recreated and young. This symbolizes Christ who, after his crucifixion, ascended into heaven.
The Tongues of Fire
After Jesus ascended into heaven, the Holy Spirit came down to the disciples in the form of tongues of fire. The tree is highlighted in Revelation 22:2 as the tree of life for the healing of all nations.
The Ship
Pentecost was the beginning of the New Testament Christian Church, and the Word was spread to all corners of the world, illustrated by the ship as a symbol of the Church.
Faith Lutheran Church
We're Faith Lutheran Church is shown in the window as a community of Christians who celebrate and practice their faith and point people to Jesus Christ.
Love and Fellowship
The heart with the clasped hands indicates the love and fellowship that continues in the Church today through the work of the Holy Spirit.
