Hidden stained-glass window shines after church remodel
Hidden behind a balcony for more than 40 years, the recent renovation of First United Methodist Church, 1903 E. Euclid Ave., in Arlington Heights, revealed an amazing, two-story, faceted stained-glass triptych, which is now the colorful backdrop of each Sunday celebration.
Created by artist John C. Bera, then of Chicago, a soaring flowered cross is surrounded by rich symbols of biblical stories and codes of the early Christian church.
On Sunday, April 15, at 9:30 a.m., lead pastor the Rev. Dr. Bonnie Beckonchrist’s morning reflection, “Window on the Word,” will invite parishioners to discover the messages within the glass.
“Historically, the church has been a patron of the arts,” Beckonchrist said. “When people now walk into the sanctuary, the color and light takes their breath away. When they sit down and look, they are awed by the beauty and creativity, which leads to an awe of the creator.
“Long before bibles and literacy were common place, people could read artistic renditions of biblical truths. The same is true today.”
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