THE STORY OF THE SANCTUARY WINDOWS
In a joint Building-Coordinating Committee meeting on the evening of May 3, a contract for the windows in our new Sanctuary was approved and authorized. The contract is with the Conrad Schmitt Studios in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
The Conrad Schmitt Studios was founded in 1889, and has been a leading liturgical arts and decorating studio serving from coast to coast.
Our windows have been deigned my Miss Delores Veth, a native of St. Louisan who studied at Washington University there. During the past 15 years she has designed windows, mosaics and other furnishings for churches of all denominations in 19 states. In 1970 she was awarded a prize in the Benesco Design Competion sponsored by the Stained Glass Association of America for artists throughout the country, and she has exhibited paintings in the St. Louis area.
The artist’s object was to convey the ideas of concepts in a readily understandable manner rather than obscure symbolism, keeping in mind the multipurpose for which the Sanctuary is to be used by various groups.
The theme areas are predominantly in red tones to suggest God’s love. Small crosses are used too represent Christ, and small pieces of red are also used in the background as field crosses formed by the epoxy matrix.
Miss Veth’s theme throughout the entire design of the windows is “We come to the First United Methodist Church to …
WINDOW # 1
We come to First United Methodist Church to sustain our FAITH. A cross and triangle (Trinity) are depicted with the words “Do not despair,” which are appropriate for all the problems we face today.
WINDOW # 2
We come to First United Methodist Church to express our JOY. The sun and the words, “Let yourself be,” complete this concept.
WINDOW # 3
We come to First United Methodist Church to offer our help and to serve people because we LOVE. A flame representing the fires of LOVE and the phrase “We care” complete this idea.
WINDOW # 4
We come to First United Methodist Church to WORSHIP and “Give thanks to the Lord” for our many blessings.
WINDOW # 5
We come to First United Methodist Church to PRAISE GOD by raising our voices in song and music. A scroll and words “Sing out” complete this idea.
WINDOW # 6
We come to First United Methodist Church because of our concern for LIFE. A plant, and the phrase, “You are unique in the world” further this concept.
WINDOW # 7
We come to First United Methodist Church to find HOPE. The words “Take courage” and an anchor cross also express this idea.
WINDOW # 8
We come to First United Methodist Church to search for PEACE and “Harmony with God.” The traditional dove of peace completes this symbol.