The reredos for Holy Trinity Lutheran Church is inspired by liturgy, sacrament and Lutheran theology. Foremost, the empty cross points to the Resurrection of Christ. The abstraction behind the cross provides an image that can remain responsive to the liturgy and support the changing readings throughout the lectionary cycle. It also speaks to faith, which is as individual as each member of the Holy Trinity congregation. Each viewing will be unique, and each reflection will build on the last one to allow for growth and refinement in one’s faith journey.
The larger reredos wall is composed in three parts representing the Trinitarian foundation for the church. The vertical orientation suggests both a traditional altar triptych as well as the Holy Trinity. The “U” shape to the design suggests a receptacle or open hands in prayer. The central vertical column suggests God’s influence in our lives, which extends from heaven to earth. This vertical element moves from sky to water through a red passage suggesting the creation, the firmament, the Sea of Galilee, transfiguration, and the renewal of grace for the planet. Through Christ’s life, death and resurrection, all of creation is reconciled to him. The orange passages in the side panels rendered from infinite fractal shapes, suggest clouds, spirit, movement and ascension.
The mosaic is created from thousands of pieces of hand-cut stained glass. It is intended to evoke through abstract gesture, movement, brilliant color and interwoven forms a majestic setting for the liturgy and worship. The structure for the mosaic wall has several physical levels of relief to further create dimension and shadows.
The sacraments are present in the blue waters of baptism and the red of communion wine. Wind, fire, flame, and waters are all present in the design and are imagery present throughout the Bible associated with the divine love of God. This imagery traces the evolution of God’s creative activity and divine partnership with humanity. The visual range of these images extends from the waters of Genesis to the Psalms of exile, the life-giving water of Christ and Baptism, and the river flowing through New Jerusalem in Revelation.
“I will remember the deeds of the LORD; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. I will meditate on all your works and consider all your mighty deeds. Your ways, O God, are holy.” – Psalm 77:11–13.
