This is the window facing the alter at the Immanuel church, Ernakulum, where Anna and I are seeking to be members of the worshipping congregation. It is placed at height that the whole altar and the space adjacent to it get the natural morning sunlight. The cross in wood is fixed to the ground glass panel of the window. The sun casts the shadows of leaves of a tree hanging over the window in the outside. The window is shaped in arch formation to correspond to the rest of the design of the wall.
This church was rebuilt a few years back and this window is a new addition since then.
The self illuminating inscription, 'Holy', three times at the foot of the cross is a gentle reminder of the attitude we are invited to internalize while being in the sanctuary. The choir seated at either side of the altar has this window in their full sight. One of the senior members of the choir mentioned to me that he returns from the worship service each time with a sacred feeling of having been touched and moved. One significant factor according to him, is this window and the inscriptions on it. It directs him to an open heart towards God.
One important aspect of the interior design of a place where we go to worship is, how much of it is contributing to create the inner ambience of gladness, humility, thanksgiving and hope. This is possible if the interior is simple, distraction free and creates a worshipful ambience.
Even children sit quieter in this church, as the shadows of leaves on the glass window keep moving in the wind, which itself is fascinating for them. This holds their attention.
The worship service is so structured that it allows long pauses of silence. This silence is another way of allowing inner movements towards God, who draws us in silence. What transpires in the interior of our lives is what resides with us as we leave the church after the worship. Having experienced God's love, we leave the church to share His love with others.
M.C.Mathew(text and photo)
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