The Reformation Window       

     We not only believe that God was at work in this world when He sent His Son in the flesh, but that God continues to preserve and strengthen His Church through the Holy Spirit working through the means of grace.

     One such time when the Spirit’s renewing work was evident was the Reformation. The Church had departed from many Scriptural truths. People were not directed to Christ and the cross for their salvation, but their own good works. On October 31, 1517, Martin Luther posted his 95 Theses on the doors of the Castle Church in Wittenberg, Germany, hoping to discuss with other theologians church teachings which he believed were contrary to Scripture.

     The window depicts this event that set in motion the Lutheran Reformation. The onlookers represent the different responses Luther received—questioning, meditative, and argumentative.

     The top medallion features Luther’s Rose. Luther oversaw the creation of this rose and also explained its meaning and symbolism.

     The left medallion is the lamp of knowledge. Psalm 119:105 states: “Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.” At the Reformation, Luther called the Church to proclaim Scripture alone as the true source for Christian teaching and living.

        The right medallion is a symbol of the Holy Spirit, the flames of fire. On Pentecost, the Holy Spirit descended upon the disciples as tongues of fire. The inclusion of this symbol in this window serves as a reminder that the Reformation was a period of spiritual renewal in the Church.