Symbols in the Sanctuary
The CROSS is the center and main emphasis of the entire altar area, stating clearly our faith and hope found in the life,
death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Lines of lead in the windows radiate outward from the center of the cross as Christ's
love radiates through our lives. The symbols are woven in front of and behind translucent FLAMES, which symbolize the
Holy Spirit.
At the top of the left window is an open HAND, also known as the Manus Dei, symbolizing God's ownership of and
providence for all of creation. The symbol comes from the many references to the "hand of God" in the Bible, and reminds
us of God's creation, blessing and protection.
At the top of the right window is the descending DOVE, symbolizing the Holy Spirit. The image is taken from the story of
Jesus' baptism, where the Spirit descended on him in the form of a dove. The three-rayed nimbus around its head identifies the Spirit as a member of the Trinity.
Viewing the above symbols from left to right, we see the Father Creator, the Redeemer Son (represented by the cross), and the Holy Spirit or Sustainer.
Other symbols of our faith are contained in windows, reminding us and future generations of the beliefs on which the Church of Jesus Christ is founded.
The PALM BRANCHES, CROSS AND CROWN, each emphasize Jesus' victory over sin and death. The cross, because it is empty, reminds us of both his death and resurrection; the branches are an ancient symbol of liberation and victory; and the crown, a sign of Christ the King.
The BIBLE signifies Jesus as God's living word to humans, as well as the power of the gospel, as the proclaimed and read Word.
The SHELL is a symbol of baptism. The three drops of water are reminders of the Trinity - Father, Son and Holy Spirit - in whose name Christians are baptized.
The WHEAT AND GRAPES together, are a symbolic presentation of the gifts of grace available in Holy Communion.
The DOGWOOD BLOSSOM has four petals, two long and two short, which form the shape of a cross. In the center of the outer edge of each petal are holes which represent the nail prints of crucifixion. The center of the flower looks like a crown of thorns. The dogwood blooms in early Spring, symbolizing the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ.
The LILY, because it sprouts forth and flowers in the early Spring, is a sign of Jesus' resurrection.
The ALPHA AND OMEGA, on the bottom left is a symbol of the eternal nature of Christ. In the Greek alphabet, alpha is the first letter and omega is the last, thus proclaiming Jesus as the beginning and the end.
The TREFOIL AND TRIANGLE, on the bottom right, are traditional emblems of the Holy Trinity: God the Creator, Jesus Christ the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The triangle has three equal sides and three identical angles, yet one shape. The trefoil has three lobes of equal size, yet one figure.
The CANDLES on the altar serve to remind us of Jesus words, "I am the Light of the World" (John 8:12). The two candles placed on the altar represents Jesus' human and divine natures. At the beginning of the service, acolytes enter and light the candles, reminding us of Christ's presence in our worship. At the end of the service, they carry the light back out, reminding us that our responsibility as Christ's followers is to carry his light into the world.