Since some interest has been shown in the pulpit and stained glass in the new home page picture, I will give a little history of it.
This local church originally met in a small rural community about four miles south of the present location. In the early 1960's we constructed a building in the midst of the redwood trees and used local material in every way possible. As the building neared completion, one of the members was visited by her brother, Donald Shepherd, who was at that time an artist with a studio in New York City. He had been quite active in decorating some rather large and well known churches. He volunteered to make and donate a window for our new building. As pastor, I had the privilege of collaborating with him on the design.
Since it was to be placed behind the baptistry, the design illustrates some of the Truths we hold dear concerning this Ordinance. The three interlocking circles symbolize the trinity, in whose name baptism is administered. The cross with the word ‘salvation’ indicates that baptism is a testimony that one has accepted Christ. The yoke, with the word ‘service’ refers to the fact that one who follows Christ in baptism is to be raised to walk in the newness of life. The circle with the anchor and the word ‘hope’ is testimony that as Christ was raised, so we also shall come out of the grave in the resurrection.
The pulpit and other furniture was a labor of love by two members. The wood is matched grain, curley redwood and the tops are made of redwood burl.
The building was dedicated in April,1964, but in December of that year, the Eel River rose in the so-called thousand year flood and destroyed the church building and the community. The window and the furniture was salvaged and installed in the present building in the town of Rio Dell, where we now meet.
The present pastor, Dwane Stutte, allows me access to the pulpit when I am physically able and it always feels like I am coming back home when I stand there!
From time to time we will show more pictures. Hope you enjoy our reminiscing. Freddie