The six windows on the Epistle side of the nave recall some of the parables
of Jesus, while those on the Gospel side portray his miracles. The lower
portion of each window depicts themes relating to Northern California.
Window V: The Service of Mary and Martha
(Luke 38:42, John 12:2-8)
Although this window is not based on one of Jesus' stories, the hospitality shown to Jesus by Martha and Mary at their home in Bethany is a parable from life. The two sisters each wanted to please the Lord. Martha had been working in her kitchen, preparing and serving the meals, while Mary remained with Jesus, learning from him and anointing his feet with costly ointment. Martha complained that all the work was left to her while Mary had the easy part. Jesus, however, assured each sister that through their acts of devotion they had served him well. In this window we see Martha holding a basket of freshly made bread while Mary anoints Jesus' feet, a gracious act of hospitality and concern. Lazarus, now raised from the dead, stands beside Martha, the open arch reminding us of the tomb from which he was called forth. Jesus is seated, and behind him we see a cross in red with halo, reminding us that all loving acts may become deeds offered to God.
The panel below shows us an elderly person in a wheel chair being ministered to by a caregiver. Service in the name of Christ never ends.
This window was given in memory of Astrid Elizabeth Lytle.
Window VI: Jesus, the Light and Hope of the World
(Matthew 28:19-20)
In this window, Jesus stands in front of a gold cross, symbolizing his victory over death. His hand is extended in blessing for all the world and its people. Beside him stand his mother, Mary (traditionally wearing a blue gown), and a young child (the future). The fawn and the turtle recall the hymn: "All things bright and beautiful, all creatures great and small, All things wise and wonderful, the Lord God made them all." The birds and the animals, "the lily of the fields" (represented here by a California poppy), and an olive branch suggest both the peace and the providence of God which surrounds us as we leave church and go into the world.
In the lower panel, the theme of Jesus as Lord of all is carried out by three figures representing different races and cultures. They have joined hands to work together for peace and good will. The cross and the olive branch remind us that cultural and racial harmony are to be found through mutual responsibility and interdependence.
This window was given in memory of Susan Lobner Schroeder and Andrew Jason Schroeder.
