Symbolism at Westkirk

Standing seven stories above the grade level, the steeple points to Almighty God on High.

The Celtic Cross on the steeple is also called the Eternity Cross.  The circle is emblematic of God who, like the circle, has no beginning and no end.   Often called the Presbyterian Cross, it is the official cross of the Church of Scotland, our theological forebears.

As you enter Westkirk, you pass by twin pillars like those in the Temple of Jerusalem where Jesus taught.  Jesus is the faculty of one at Westkirk.

The Crescent Window in the chancel above the pulpit reminds us of the fertile crescent in the Middle East where Abraham journeyed from Ur down to present-day Israel.

Above the canopy is the budded cross used by the early Church.  Westkirk is a young, budding congregation.

The Canopy was used by the colonial and Reformed churches for sound amplification.

The Framework around the pulpit is symbolic of the Throne of God before whom all will stand in judgment.

The Pulpit occupies the center of the chancel because, for us, the Word of God is central in Reformed theology, with the preaching of the Gospel always under the influence and power of the cross.  The pulpit is shaped like the front of a ship, reminiscent of Noah’s Ark in which His chosen safely abide.

The Lord’s Table is directly below the pulpit - reminding us that Holy Communion grows out of the preaching of the Gospel.  The table is twelve feet long – reminding us of the first twelve disciples.  Supporting the table are three pillars symbolic of the Holy Trinity.  The two candles stand for the humanity and divinity of Jesus Christ.

The Baptism Font is fashioned like the Communion Table.  Standing on the same level as Holy Communion, baptism is our welcome into the Family of God and communion is the means of our nurture.

The Pews are turned in toward each other to enhance the fellowship of God’s people.  We are not spectators but family who bring our worship to the Lord.

The Carpet is the traditional color of the season of Pentecost when the Holy Spirit, like fire, danced on the new believers.

The Acorn Pediments above the doors at each end of the narthex are symbolic of our faith in the future.

The Chancel Chairs are patterned after authentic colonial Windsor chairs – reminding us of our pioneering heritage.  They are painted with milk paint.

The Clear Windows in the sanctuary welcome LIGHT – the first element of creation.

The High Ceiling gives us a feeling of the majesty of God – high and lifted up.