The Meaning of Our Stained Glass Windows

The windows in the narthex of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church represent the important events in the life of Jesus Christ, our Savior. The story they tell begins with window #1 in the southwest corner. The name and dedication is inscribed on a bronze plate next to each window.

#1 Nativity
Presented by St. Paul’s Youth, 1971

At the top of the window, the star and the rays flow down from heaven to the crib of Jesus. The Chi-Rho (☧) represents Christ, and to the left, His mother, Mary. The crown with the halo represents Christ, the King. Below the crib are the gifts presented by the Magi.

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#2 Baptism
In memory of David Ramstorf

The dove and rays flow to the baptismal shell, with the water flowing over the Chi-Rho, symbolizing Christ being baptized by St. John, the Baptist. A voice came out of the heavens: “This is My beloved Son, in Whom I am well pleased.”

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#3 Cana
In memory of Emelia Buchholz

The symbol at the top of the window, the lamp, represents Christ, the Light of the world. Below are the crown and the cross, symbolizing Christ. The two rings are a symbol of marriage and the flames with symbolize the love of Christ. From the cross there flows the water changed into wine. Below are the jars that were filled.

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#4 Feeding of the Multitudes
In memory of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Sutton

The wheat at the top reminds us of bread, the staff of life, and of Christ, the Bread of Life. Below are the crown and the cross, symbolizing Christ. The loaves, baskets, and fish represent what Christ used to feed the multitudes. In the lower panel, the chalice with grapes symbolizes Communion.

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#5 Sermon on the Mount
In memory of Ed Killmer, William and Ida Herman, Rudolph and Martha Dalluge

In the top panel, the chalice, wafer, and bread represent the teaching Christ. The Chi-Rho on the hill symbolizes Christ giving his sermon. In the lower panel, the partial circles represent people listening to His sermon.

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#6 Gethsemane
In memory of Wallin Fisher

In the top panel, the chalice, wafer, and bread represent the Last Supper. In the center panel, the chalice with the Chi-Rho and drops of blood represents Christ’s suffering and praying in the garden. In the lower panel, the scourge symbolizes other aspects of Christ’s suffering.

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#7 Crucifixion
In memory of Vince Kenjoski and Wallin Fisher

In the top panel are the darkening of the sun and moon with lightning striking out from the heavens. In the center panel, the three crosses: the large cross with the five wounds symbolizes the crucifixion of Christ, and the two smaller crosses represent the two thieves. In the lower panel are the reed, sponge, and vinegar jar.

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#8 Resurrection
In memory of Paul Kiekow

The staff and banner from out of the open tomb symbolize Christ’s victory over death. In the background is shown the rising sun. In the lower panel, the Fleur‑de‑Lys represents the Holy Trinity.

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#9 Ascension
Presented by Mr. and Mrs. Marvin Vollrath

The Crown and the Alpha and Omega symbolize God calling Christ to ascend into Heaven. The lower panel also has a symbol represent the earth and Christ’s words: “Go forth and teach all Nations.”

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#10 Pentecost (In memory of the August Gottschalk family) The dove and the seven flames symbolize the descent of the Holy Spirit. The seven flames represent the gifts of the Holy Spirit. In the lower panel, incense flows upward to symbolize our prayers to God for the gift of His Holy Spirit.

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