Second Congregational Church, UCC* Hillside Street, Bennington, Vermont (802) 442-2559 "resolutely inclusive, spiritually alive, and empowered for ministry in the world."
was on the cover of the October 19 Sunday church bulletin. The photo was made by Lorna Cheriton lying on the floor directly under the steeple.
Also in this bulletin was a description of the stained glass windows. The Celtic Cross, a cross with a circle superimposed, is said to have originated in Ireland. The Maltese Cross, spearheads with points touching, dates back to the Crusades when it was used as the emblem on swords of the Hospitallers. The Cross and Crown symbolizes the reward in the life after death of those who believe in the crucified savior. The Cross on the Rock is a symbol both of our Lord (1 Corinthians 10:4) and of the believer's faith (Matthew 16:16). The Fish was a secret sign used by the first Christians and perhaps a symbol that predates the cross. Alpha and Omega are the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet, like our A and Z. ("'I am the Alpha and the Omega,' says the Lord God" - Rev 1:8). Wheat symbolizes Christ as the Bread of Life. Grapes represent the wine of communion. The Ship is a symbol of the church. (The sanctuary of a church is called the Nave, from the Latin word for ship.). The Dove is the classic symbol of the Holy Spirit (Mark 1:10). The Anchor Cross is a symbol of hope, used by the early Christians in the catacombs. The Maple Leaf is a non-ecclesiastical symbol but an appropriate representation of Vermont.
