Reflections on the CBC Stained Glass Windows

We are proud to have commissioned Lucinda Shaw, an artist who grew up in our congregation, to create two inspiring windows representing “Christ the Peacemaker” and “The Motherhood of God.” These contemporary stained glass windows in our Martin Luther King, Jr. Fellowship Commons complement the beautifully restored traditional stained glass in our Worship Commons.

Contemporary Windows in Martin Luther King, Jr. Fellowship Commons

Christ the Peacemaker
They shall beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation shall not lift up sword against nation. Neither shall they learn war any more. Micah 4:3

The window facing Lancaster Avenue represents Central Baptist Church's ministry of peacemaking and justice-building in the world. The Light of God descends from heaven, coming through the figure of Christ the Peacemaker. The light surrounds Christ's hand and continues down through the sword to create the plowshare. The bright colors represent the explosive transformation that occurs when peace breaks out in the world.

“To me it is like the phoenix arising from its own ashes symbolizing rejuvenation, continuity, and resurrection. I used clear glass for the main part of Christ's body as an invitation to the outside world to come in and know the Peacemaker." Lucinda Shaw, artist

The Motherhood of God
For this is what the Lord says: As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you. Isaiah 66:13

The window in the east wall captures our view of God's important role in our lives. We turn to God as our source of comfort and nurture, recognizing that we cannot offer care or nurture unless we have first received the care and nurture of God.

“In my design of this window, I used a circle to represent Mother God and mother earth. The seven children symbolize the seven continents of the world. The eagle's feathers or wings are a form of comfort and protection." Lucinda Shaw, artist