Sunday at First

This Sunday (and this evening as well) I preached at First Lutheran in Kenyon, where I was welcomed very warmly by Pastor Luther Mathsen and the rest of the congregation. The services were very nice, and it was a pleasure to meet a few more people at First. Take a look at the beautiful building!


Sanctuary after the Sunday service.




One of several amazing stained-glass windows. This one of the ascension. Others depict the nativity and Peter's failed attempt to walk on water.




Chancel, with the stained-glass window of Jesus praying in the garden.




Closer picture of the baptismal font. One of the loveliest elements of Sunday's worship was a blessing ritual for the eighth- and ninth-graders starting (or re-starting) confirmation classes. Pastor Mathsen asked the youth and their parents to come to the front, behind the font, where the students affirmed their commitment to these studies, their parents promised to support them, and the congregation promised to encourage and nurture all of them.