CHRIST BLESSES THE CHILDREN

The central theme of the window to the left of the Epiphany window in the south wall of the nave is “Christ Blessing the Children.” And they were bringing children to Him that He might touch them; and the disciples rebuked them. But when Jesus saw it, He was indignant and said to them, "Let the children come to me, do not hinder them; for to such belong the Kingdom of God. Truly I say to you, whoever does not receive the Kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it." And He took them in His arms and blessed them, laying His hands upon them. (Mark 10: 13-16)

This biblical scene is portrayed in a deeply symbolic way. In a time when prejudice among races hovers like a dark cloud over mankind, our Lord is shown calling to Him children of all races: a white girl clad in today's dress, an American Indian girl, a boy from Asia wearing a turban, a black child playing on the ground. Jesus invites them all to come to Him and receive His blessing. His love embraces the children of all races and nations; His love is colorblind. The children are led to Christ by a mother, holding her baby in her arms.

The trees following the contour of the group symbolize the spiritual shelter they find in Christ and also suggest that these children are in the springtime of life. The small design in the upper left shows a millstone, signifying Christ’s admonition: “Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone fastened round his neck and to drown in the depth of the sea.” (Matthew 18: 6)

The lower section of the left lancet depicts the conferring of Holy Baptism on a little child. On the left we see the parents, in the center the minister pouring the water of regeneration on the child’s head, and on the right the sponsors.

The design in the lower right lancet shows the second important event in the child’s life: the Rite of Confirmation. The minister stands before the altar, confirming the boy and girl. The oil lamp and the book symbolize the religious and scientific education received by our children.