Epiphany

... and there, ahead of them, went the star that they had seen at its rising, until it stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw that the star had stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy. On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother; and they knelt down and paid him homage. Then, opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they left for their own country by another road. Matthew 2: 9-12

Arcade window, St. Mark's Lutheran, Toledo

Aisle window, Grace Lutheran, Fremont

A Peaceful and Blessed Christmas To All

So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. Luke 2: 4-7

Arcade window, St. Mark's Lutheran, Toledo.

Aisle window, Grace Lutheran, Fremont

And there were shepherds ...

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests." Luke 2: 8-14

Gallery window, Bethlehem Lutheran, Pemberville

Merry Christmas (From Russ)

Merry Christmas to All from Russ (AKA) Steeple Chaser. Picture taken at St. John's Lutheran Church in Sidney, Ohio.

Chapel, Lutheran Village at Wolf Creek, Holland

I was actually out by there to take a few pictures of First Baptist across the street, but then I noticed the chapel, and thought ... what the heck, check it out ...

Cuts a rather dramatic profile ...

Now, of course one does not have to be Lutheran to live at Wolf Creek, or to receive their services, which are offered without regard to religious faith. Nonetheless, I was just a bit surprised (and pleased) to enter the chapel and see ...
Of course, the chapel is used for Mass for Catholic residents, as well as for Lutheran worship services and probably other Protestant services as well.

The chapel also functions as an all-purpose room, with the chancel area behind those folding panels when services are not being conducted. I asked one of the staffers if there was any way I could see the altar. She said the panels were tricky to get open, but one panel at the side was part-way open so I was able to go back.Simple and nice, pleasant and calming ... assuming those banners are changed with the liturgical seasons ...

Now I really like this ...

I don't know whether or not they put her to the side during Lutheran services, but it's my hope that they leave her right where she is. Martin Luther would have.
That's what I need for at home ... an electric one. Much safer when you have a dozen cats jumping around!

Wolf Creek had some lovely Christmas decorations ...

Big beautiful tree ...

Wishing a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all! Enjoy your holidays!