The Power of Symbols

I am coordinating the publicity for the free tour of historic downtown Baraboo churches, taking place on Sunday afternoon, April 6, 2014. This year's tour, featuring five churches within walking distance of each other, plus a movie shown at Circus World Museum, will focus on the theme of symbols in the Christian faith.  As part of my research, my pastor loaned me a book about symbols of the church.  I've found the book fascinating and the meaning behind some of the symbols interesting.  As I wandered through our church's sanctuary recently, I looked at the symbols, particularly in the stained glass, with new eyes.  Just in one window, I saw a shock of wheat symbolizing the Bread of Life, lilies symbolizing Easter and immortality, and a dove with an olive sprig, denoting peace, forgiveness and a new life.  Symbols hold tremendous power in cultures and faith traditions.  I'm enjoying the experience of gaining a better understanding of them in our community's downtown historic churches.