The stained glass windows in our sanctuary, built in 1986, depicts Christ as the Good Shepherd. Each window illustrates a unique theme inspired by Scripture, reflecting the deep love Jesus has for His sheep.
The original themes and concepts were developed by our then-pastor, Richard Ziehr. Acclaimed stained glass artist Cecil Casebier of San Antonio, Texas—recognized internationally for his work—was commissioned to design the windows. They were expertly crafted by Statesville Glass of Statesville, North Carolina, using European antique glass.
The windows on the left side of the sanctuary (as you face the altar) are primarily based on Old Testament passages, while those on the right focus on New Testament themes. Because the artwork is abstract and symbolic, the following guide is provided to help you better understand and appreciate the messages conveyed through each window.
Chi Rho
(seen only from the outside)
The Chi Rho is an ancient Christian symbol formed from the first two letters of the Greek word for Christ—Χ (Chi) and Ρ (Rho). It also evokes the image of the Shepherd’s Crook, a reminder of Christ as our Good Shepherd. In the corners of the window, lambs gaze upward in adoration toward their Shepherd. The design is adapted from artwork by Jeff Johnson, a son of this congregation.
In a world often painted in shades of gray, these windows, transforming daylight into doxology, stand as a vivid reminder of the radiant presence of our Lord and the brilliant glow of His love.
Abundance
Window 1 - far left (lector side)
Psalms 23:1 The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
Panels 3 and 4 depict green pastures and still waters. In panel 3, a pitcher marked “01” symbolizes anointing with oil. The flame of life—nourished and strengthened by this oil—appears in panels 2 and 3, reminding viewers of God’s sustaining presence and the vitality He imparts.
Feeding
Window 2 - middle left
Ezekiel 34:15 I myself will be the shepherd of my sheep, and I myself will make them lie down, declares the Lord GOD.
This window portrays nourishing grace of Word and Sacrament (the Means of Grace). In panel 3, a book bearing the Alpha (A) and Omega (Ω) with the flame of the Holy Spirit represents God’s Word. The Lord’s Supper is symbolized by the chalice in panels 4 and 5 and the wheat in panels 1 and 2. The Water of Life flows from the dove-shaped baptismal shell in panels 4 and 5.
Comfort
Window 3 - front left
Psalms 23:4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
Panels 3, 4, and 5 depict the Shepherd with His staff among His sheep. Dark tones at the base of the window symbolize the valley of shadows, gradually brightening toward the top to represent the journey upward along the path through the valley.
Victory
Window 4 - front right (pulpit side)
Ezekiel 34:23 And I will set up over them one shepherd, my servant David, and he shall feed them: he shall feed them and be their shepherd.
John 10:11 I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.
The bottom three panels depict the crucifixion, capturing the depth of Christ’s sacrifice. Rising above, panels 1 and 2 display the banner of victory, symbolizing our Shepherd’s triumph over death and the grave—a reminder that His resurrection secures eternal life and hope for all who follow Him.
Rejoice
Window 5 - middle right
Luke 15:7 Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance.
In the bottom three panels, figures of many nationalities rejoice, some lifting their arms in praise. Panels 3 and 4 feature a figure with a horn and another offering help. The top two panels depict the Holy Spirit as a dove, calling the lost through the Gospel’s saving message.
Saved
Window 6 - far right
Matthew 24:30-31 Then will appear in heaven the sign of the Son of Man, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. And he will send out his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.
The crown in panel 1 symbolizes the Risen Christ. The hand of God is seen reaching down from the top two panels as an invitation. A net in panels 4 and 5 gathers fish of every kind, to be sorted at the end of the age (Matthew 13:47-50). On the Lord’s left (our right) burn the eternal flames of judgment, while on His right (our left) shine the golden hues of heaven (Matthew 25:31-46).