Symbols at First Lutheran Church

The cross above the altar contains five red stones. These represent the five wounds of Christ on the cross.

The two steps to the altar set apart as a holy place symbolizing the presence of God. The Pastor stands here during the worship service, after the confession and absolution. They are generally not used during concerts or other events. 

In the same way, the pulpit is used by ordained pastors for the delivery of sermons in a worship service. Speeches and general announcements are done from the lectern. 

The Communion rail is open in the center and does not stretch all the way across the front of church. This symbolizes that all penitent sinners may go directly to God through Christ. The rail is like the temple curtain that tore at Christ’s crucifixion. Christ’s death and resurrection opened the kingdom of heaven to all believers. 

The candles in the chancel are lit for worship services, but not other events. Ordinarily the candles on the altar are lit only during communion services. The candles in the candelabra are lit for all services. The lighting of the candles marks the beginning of formal worship. 

The extinguishing of the candles means the end of formal worship. The baptismal font has a dove, the symbol of the Holy Spirit, on the handle. The piece of metal artwork near the font also depicts a dove and is explained in detail on the explanation plaque. The three candles, lit for baptism, symbolize faith in the triune God which is kindled in baptism. 

The pews are positioned around the outline of a traditional cross. Many historians believe that Jesus was crucified on a cross in a T shape. When our church is full, we people, the body of Christ, are sitting in the shape of a Tau cross. 

The round window in the balcony is called the Rose Window. Many European churches have rose windows as focal points. Jesus is called the Rose of Sharon and is also portrayed as a rose in the hymn, “Lo, How a Rose is Growing”. 

The shape of the older windows point to heaven. The predominant color of blue symbolizes heaven. Purple is the color of royalty. There are many “fleur de lis” on the windows. This is a French phrase meaning lily and also is a kind of cross with three petals symbolizing the Trinity. Jesus was called the Lily of the Valley. There are many “fleur de lis” on the exterior of the church as well. 

There is also a small altar in the Fellowship Center. The statue of Christ on it used to be part of the ornate, old altar used in the church before 1962 addition.