Notice how the altar always seems to be the center. At the center of our faith is the sacrifice, once for all, for the sin of the entire world. Baptism and the Word testify to that sacrifice. If Christ had not died and rose again, our faith and our worship would be in vain. But Christ did die and He did rise again! Hallelujah!
My congregation, Salem, has a dove painted on the ceiling of the chancel. This reminds us that the Word and Sacrament dispensed from that chancel are the Means through which the Holy Spirit creates and strengthens our faith.
Next Sunday, as you meditate before worship, look at the chancel and meditate on what the arrangement means. Look at the means, however humble they may appear, through which the Holy Spirit works wonders with such silent power. Meditate on that one sacrifice that has paid for all your sins and how our Lord comes to each of us with His Word, His body and blood, and His Spirit.
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4.
Apr 30, 1999 1:38 PM
;Several years ago my wife and I visited a church, (newly constructed) in Flower Mound which is a sub of Dallas that the baptismal fount was in front on the altar, however it was large enough for co ...
-- posted by ears4u
3.
Apr 30, 1999 12:34 PM
Now that you mention it, Dave, I do recall some newer churches being built are along the lines of what you speak about. Some have the seating on three sides of the altar so that the members of the con ...
-- posted by H2O
2.
Apr 30, 1999 11:40 AM
and after reading your article I would certainly like to go and see for myself!!
And best wishes to the committee working on the new church plans. Your work has long-reaching ramifications. May t ...
-- posted by StCatherine
1.
Apr 30, 1999 11:13 AM
Excellent article as far as it goes. Yes word and sacrament are the focal points of any Lutheran church. However, there are those who feel most of our churches only reflect an adaptation of the refo ...
-- posted by ears4u
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